Negative Press Project
a seven- to eight-piece electro-acoustic, jazz-adjacent, chamber, post-bop–inspired original music collective.

Negative Press Project (NPP) is a self described jazz and indie/art influenced music collective established in Oakland, CA. “Versatility abounds, and they always look for new ground to explore," says The Bay Bridged.

Co-led by Ruthie Dineen (Piano/Keys) and Andrew Lion (Electric and Double Bass), the group is a composer’s culmination of a converted rock bassist and classically trained pianist to jazz inspired creative music.

The additional voices of Tony Peebles (Tenor Sax), Rafa Postel (Trumpet), Chris Sullivan (Alto Sax), Lyle Link (Soprano & Tenor Sax), Luis Salcedo (Guitar), and Isaac Schwartz (Drums), and guest, Ivan Arteaga (Clarinet, Bass Clarinet, Alto Sax) imprint the music with a multitude of diverse experiences.

“✭✭✭✭”
-DownBeat (2017)

“The ensemble’s rhythm crystalizes into focus showing the full potential of what they all can do as a unit…The performances throughout The Victorious Sessions are top-notch, in that one must admire the craftsmanship and detail in the architecture.”

-Downbeat (2023)

"It is an evolving landscape and a shining example of what happens when talented musicians are not afraid to experiment and push the limits of the native jazz vernacular.”

-All About Jazz (2024)

“…crafting exhilarating, heartfelt pieces, [the group] exuberantly explores life’s triumphs, tragedies, natural quirkiness and odd angles, fusing elements of rock, jazz, classical and touches of hypnotic world music.”
-JWVibe.com

“A “jazz adjacent” sound that allows for countless creative possibilities.”
- The New Cool KNKX

“a nice balance between [ ] song structure, and the desire of the ensemble to roam free and explore...people will, in fact, find plenty to like.”
-Bird is the Worm

“sumptuously detailed instrumental arrangements. Reverent but unintimidated, their sound is a seamless blend of chamber jazz, rock and instrumental pop.”
-Mercury News

“Instrumental arrangements that evoke [ ] spirit and vibe”
-San Francisco Chronicle

“open to all possibilities...melodious frameworks for instrumental improvisation within a focused ensemble setting. It’s jazz, it’s chamber music and it often involves the dynamic energy of rock.”
-Shepherd Express

"This set gives [ ] seekers the more they seek. [ ] sounds that you wouldn't think could be found to be so possessive by certain sections of the masses, a whole lot of new jazz fans are going to be minted."
-MidwestRecord.com

“lush ... weaving and soaring … lovely music ... a heartfelt and sensitive tribute... dreamlike art.”
-All About Jazz

“They give hope for the future of creative music.”
-Avonova Music