Zoo Too Trio Announces Debut Album Poetry Legroom

Poetry Legroom, the debut album from the innovative jazz ensemble Zoo Too Trio, is set to drop on May 16, 2025, via Shifting Paradigm Records. The album redefines the traditional jazz trio format, blending contemporary jazz with elements of pop, electronic, and cinematic soundscapes. Featuring pianist Michael Cain, guitarist Keith Price, and drummer Pheeroan akLaff, Poetry Legroom presents a bold, expansive take on the genre, offering an exciting exploration of sound and improvisation.

The Musicians Behind Zoo Too Trio

Michael Cain, a renowned pianist and composer, leads the trio with his masterful harmonic structures and fluid improvisation. With a rich career that spans decades, Cain has worked with jazz luminaries such as Jack DeJohnette, Meshell Ndegeocello, and Ravi Coltrane. His acclaimed ECM release Circa showcases his unique ability to blend jazz with classical and electronic influences, making him a driving force behind Zoo Too Trio's distinctive sound.

Drummer Pheeroan akLaff brings his unparalleled rhythmic innovation to the trio. Having collaborated with jazz icons like Cecil Taylor, Henry Threadgill, and Anthony Braxton, akLaff is known for his dynamic and evolving approach to drumming. His deep-rooted tradition in avant-garde music fuels the trio's rhythm section, adding a high level of energy and complexity to the music.

Keith Price, a Canadian-born guitarist now based in New Zealand, completes the trio with his adventurous harmonic and textural sensibility. Price’s style, shaped by jazz, folk, and experimental music, adds a unique flavor to the group. As an educator at Auckland University, he brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to the band, with his atmospheric, lyrical guitar playing creating a perfect complement to Cain’s piano and akLaff’s percussion.

Exploring the Sound of Poetry Legroom

The origins of Zoo Too Trio trace back to Cain's musical bond with akLaff in New York’s vibrant jazz scene, with Price joining later to complete the group’s distinctive lineup. “We wanted to explore the sonic possibilities of this specific instrumentation,” says Cain. “Each of us brings different musical backgrounds, yet we share overlapping sensibilities. We knew we could create something truly unique together.”

Poetry Legroom features compositions from all three members, pushing the boundaries of contemporary jazz. Highlights include the evocative atmospheres of "Winter Fog Morning" and "Waxing Gibbous," the rhythmic drive of "Alligator Kangaroo," and the lyrical elegance of "Waltz for Gwen," written by Ron Blake. Over the course of nine tracks, Zoo Too Trio crafts a bold and exploratory sound that defies genre expectations.

Produced and mixed by Michael Cain, the album was recorded in Brooklyn, NY, and embraces a fresh approach to the jazz trio format. Notably, the absence of a bassist creates new harmonic and rhythmic possibilities, allowing for adventurous interplay between the trio members. This dynamic interaction results in an album that is both accessible and emotionally resonant, while maintaining a fearless, boundary-pushing spirit.

Track Listing for Poetry Legroom

1. O'Neil's Bay (4:07)
2. Poetry Legroom Okinawa Children (7:32)
3. Waltz For Gwen (6:28)
4. Song 1 Day 1 (7:27)
5. Waxing Gibbous (9:48)
6. Solodos (3:24)
7. Alligator Kangaroo (6:23)
8. Winter Fog Morning (6:09)
9. Friends and Whanau (2:20)

About Zoo Too Trio

With its rich textures, fearless improvisation, and genre-defying approach, Poetry Legroom marks the arrival of Zoo Too Trio as a new force in the modern jazz landscape. The trio is poised to make a significant impact with their innovative sound and deep musical connection. The album will be available on all major streaming platforms and in physical formats, with upcoming performances and release events to follow.

Stay tuned for more details on Poetry Legroom and upcoming live shows.