LOS ANGELES, CA (September 3, 2024) – Legendary Rock and Roll Hall of Fame drummer Michael Shrieve has announced the release his release of his latest album, Drums of Compassion, on Trey Gunn’s innovative 7D Media label. The album encapsulates over 50 years of musical exploration and collaboration with some of the most revered names in the industry, serving as a testament to Shrieve’s artistic journey.
From the moment he joined Santana at age 19, Shrieve turned heads with his remarkable power and creativity. His drum solo during Santana’s Woodstock performance of “Soul Sacrifice” is regarded as one of the most electrifying moments in drumming history. In 1998, he was inducted with Santana into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
For Shrieve, Drums of Compassion is more than an album. It’s a musical odyssey that the renowned drummer and composer began two decades ago, having been inspired by the Dalai Lama’s call for a “time of compassion.” The title of the album is also an homage to Nigerian percussionist Babatunde Olatunji’s seminal 1960 album, Drums of Passion.
Produced by Shrieve and Eric Oz, Drums of Compassion is a bold, powerful and utterly unique album that spans eras, cultures and sounds, embodying the spirit of unity and the transformative power of music. Featuring an introduction vocal incantation by Olatunji himself, it acts as a sonic bridge connecting diverse musical traditions.
The album boasts a stellar lineup of musical virtuosos, including Babatunde Olatunji, Jack DeJohnette, Zakir Hussain, Airto Moreira, Trey Gunn, Skerik, Amon Tobin, Raul Rekow, Karl Perazzo and many others. Their collective genius weaves a tapestry of rhythmic brilliance that transcends conventional music boundaries, offering listeners an immersive sonic experience.
Shrieve’s collaboration with sound designer and dark ambient music pioneer Jeff Greinke lays the foundation of the album with moody, celestial melodies that serve as a backdrop to dynamic percussive elements. Recorded in iconic facilities such as Robert Lang and London Bridge Studios in Seattle, Drums of Compassion delivers a rich acoustic experience further enriched by contributions from world-renowned musicians during a serendipitous gathering at the Bumbershoot Festival.
The album’s stunning artwork, crafted by talented designer Christo Downs and artist Penebranca, mirrors Shrieve’s profound musical narrative and presents a visual feast that complements the auditory journey.
Drums of Compassion is more than just music. It’s an offering from Shrieve to the world – a declaration of pure musical intentions, a prayer for compassion, and an invitation to explore the depth of human connection through the universal language of music.
Writing about Drums of Compassion, noted music blogger and influencer Richard Williams says, “There’s a rare combination of majesty and humility at work in the music, something that speaks of the deep and lasting impact of Coltrane’s influence on Shrieve’s instincts and decisions. More than half a century after Caravanserai, this is an album for listeners who followed Shrieve and Santana on that journey into a wider world, one where frontiers and prejudices dissolve.”
Drums of Compassion can be ordered HERE.
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