Kite Trio

Kite has been establishing an alternative path for the modern jazz trio since it was formed by guitarist Eric Couture, drummer Eric Dew, and upright bassist Paul Van Dyk in Montreal in 2008. Four years of relentless rehearsing, composing, and touring have lead to a sound that is at once intensely personal and easy to connect to. Kite’s alternative take on the classic jazz “guitar-trio” sound draws unapologetically from influences ranging from 20th century classical music to indie rock, but what truly sets Kite apart is the novel ways in which elaborate compositions are blended with stunning improvisations, a palpable departure from the jazz tradition that is only possible because of Kite’s unwavering commitment to the band ethos. Each member of Kite is an active player in the Montreal jazz, indie, and improvised music scenes, communities renowned for their vitality and creativity. Some of the artists and bands with which Eric, Eric, and Paul can be heard include: Light Made Louder, Leif Vollebekk, Angela Galuppo, Bent by Elephants, Lovers are People, NUDE, Denis Chang, Racine Rose, Life in Winter, and Tribraque. Kite, however, remains a central focus for each them. Kite has received grants from both the government of Quebec and FACTOR, was a finalist in the “Jazz En Rafale” contest for emerging artists, and was featured on a YOUTUBE video with 4 million views. Kite’s debut album (Self-Titled, 2011) was crowd-funded by a very supportive fan base through Kickstarter.com. Kite has played hundreds of shows in venues from Quebec City to Toronto to Philadelphia. ALT-JAZZ MONTREAL