KEVIN HAYNES

Born in London, Haynes began his musical career in the 80’s performing mainly as a percussionist with jazz luminaries such as Steve Williamson, Courtney Pine, Jazz Warriors Big Band and jazz drummer Clifford Jarvis’ Prophets of Jazz.  Performing with such talented musicians had a profound effect on Haynes’ ideas and approach to music leading him to focus on writing in his own unique style, playing alto-saxophone and studying more African folkloric music and drumming styles.  Trips to New York, Cuba and around Africa were a natural progression to enhance his learning of traditions such as Yoruban religion which has been celebrated and practised by artists as diverse as Alice Coltrane, Airto Moreira and Carlos Santana. He initially played with a standard quartet jazz ensemble and, as his sounds began to change, Kevin wanted to include more precision and vocal harmonies to his music. He handpicked musicians from all over read more...