Press Release :
When a band is called The Souljazz Orchestra, there is a certain expectation to uphold that name and to provide a sound that accompanies such a title; this band accomplishes just that and more. Hailing from Ottawa, The Souljazz Orchestra combine jazz, funk, African and Latin music while touching on politics and spirituality. Think - James Brown meets up with Tito Puente and they all hook up to jam at Fela Kuti's house.

Their versatile sound is in part due to the diverse musical backgrounds of the band's individual members: jazz, funk, blues, reggae, classical, and traditional Cuban, Brazilian and West African percussion. The Souljazz Orchestra are known for their captivating live shows and have collaborated with notable artists such as Beautiful Nubia and Mighty Popo and have opened up for Etta James, Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and more.

With one critically acclaimed album under their belt, the Souljazz Orchestra are back with their second album Freedom No Go Die, this high-energy release focuses mainly on afro beat music and features the vocals of Mighty Popo, Alanna Stuart and Marielle Rivard. The album is already creating a buzz on the dancefloor jazz scene and receiving worldwide attention. But it's the track 'Mista President' that is blowing up the spot! The single has been getting mad support and airplay by the likes of Gilles Peterson, Spiritual South and Dom Servini. With its raw blaring horns, dusty keyboards, storming percussion and conscious lyrics it's no surprise this funky, up-tempo afro beat killer was voted the number 9 'Track of the year 2006'on the Gilles Peterson's "Worldwide" radio show on BBC Radio One, before its official release on Do Right Music

"A marching groove, Bush-baiting chants and firing horns evoke not only the spirit of a certain Mr Anikulapo-Kuti, but also a packed Shrine going nuts. Amazing stuff" 5/5 IDJ Magazine

The Souljazz Orchestra:
Steve Patterson - tenor sax
Zakari Frantz - alto sax, soprano sax, flute
Pierre Chretien - electric piano, organ, clavinet, analog synth
Phil Lafreniere - drums, percussion
Ray Murray - alto sax, baritone sax

All members sing and play percussion as well.