Jazz in Ramadan hosts ‘The Trio of Oz’ group

ISTANBUL - Hürriyet Daily News

Jazz in Ramadan, held for the fourth time this year on July 19 and July 31, will present Omar Hakim on stage at santralistanbul on July 31 with the Trio of Oz.

Considered one of the best drummers of recent years, Hakim will be accompanied by the talented pianist Rachel Z and Solomon Dorsey on bass guitar.

The Trio of Oz specializes in unforgettable jazz and rock tunes from the 1930s. They also cover a number of legendary groups and artists such as Duke Ellington, Depeche Mode, Wayne Shorter, Joni Mitchell, Sting, Peter Gabriel, Coldplay, Stone Temple Pilots and Bjork. Their Istanbul concert will also include improvisational music.

The festival seeks to promote social peace, which primarily comes through sharing the same cultural works.

Hakim credits jazz vibraphonist Mike Mainieri with giving him his first break in 1980. Hakim appeared in a video with Mainieri called “The Jazz Life” and began working with singer Carly Simon through Mainieri. Hakim first came to major attention as a member of Weather Report and then Sting’s Blue Turtles band, appearing in the film “Bring on the Night.”

Notable artists he has played with include Anita Baker, Mariah Carey, Madonna, David Bowie, Miles Davis, Chic, Bryan Ferry, Aziza Mustafa Zadeh, Everything but the Girl, Marcus Miller, Kazumi Watanabe, Lee Ritenour, The Rippingtons and Bobby McFerrin.