Planet Kniffen

An eclectic, forward-thinking jazz ensemble, Planet Kniffen showcases the writing of drummer and bandleader Darryl Kniffen. The band released their debut effort Dreamland in April 2018, an album that showcased their cross-pollinated blend of post-bop and electric fusion.
In 2017, Kniffen formed his Planet Kniffen sextet as an outlet for his expansive compositional style, weaving in bits of jazz, rock, soul, and more. Joining him were several longtime associates, including trumpeter Dylan Canterbury, saxophonist Matthew Steckler, guitarist Shaun McCarthy, pianist Franz Robert, and bassist Jason Schwartz. After playing a slate of live shows, including appearances at the Easthampton Jazz Festival, Vermont Jazz Center, and Readsboro Arts Festival, they released their debut album Dreamland. Dreamland debuted at #5 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Album chart and #13 on the Billboard Jazz Album chart in May 2018.