Deep Energy Orchestra

Playing With Fire" is the first live recording by Deep Energy Orchestra. This supergroup showcases prog-phenom Trey Gunn (King Crimson) and Indian percussion master Selvaganesh (Shakti, John McLaughlin, Jonas Helborg) teaming up with composer Jason Everett (Mister E) and a Seattle-based classical string ensemble. Performing the eclectic compositions of world-jazz bassist Jason Everett, this group of Indian, prog rock, and classical musicians takes the listener on a journey of exotic soundscapes. Jason's ability to weave Indian-style melodies together with complex, funky, odd-meter grooves is deceptively natural. More-strings-than-usual might be a theme for this group as lead violinist Radhika Iyer, from San Francisco, played her seven-string electric violin and Everett himself is known for his unique seven-string fretless bass. Other local musicians who rounded out the sound included tabla player Anil Prasad, and classical musicians Rachel Nesvig on violin, Aleida Gehrels on viola, and Phil Hirschi on cello. These performances were recorded live over a two-day recording session at the Jack Straw Cultural Center in Seattle, WA, as part of an Artist Residency award. Everything was also captured on video with multiple cameras so that the unusual instruments (tabla, kanjira, seven-string electric violin, Warr Guitar, and Selvaganesh's custom drum kit) can be seen as well as heard.