Electric Squeezebox Orchestra

The Electric Squeezebox Orchestra, led by trumpeter Erik Jekabson, presents a special collaboration with resident poet Avotcja in preparation for an upcoming recording session. This 17-piece big band, featuring some of the Bay Area's finest players and arrangers, draws from diverse influences while maintaining sophisticated groove and beauty.

Avotcja (pronounced Avacha) brings her award-winning jazz-influenced poetry to the collaboration. Born to Puerto Rican entertainer parents in New York City, she's a multi-instrumentalist and spoken word artist who has shared stages with legends including Rahsaan Roland Kirk, Betty Carter, and Nikki Giovanni. Her improvisational style blends seamlessly with the orchestra's dynamic arrangements.

The Electric Squeezebox Orchestra has built its reputation on all original compositions and arrangements by its members. Expect to hear music that ranges from hard-swinging blues in the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis tradition to modal post-bop explorations, with arrangements that showcase the ensemble's deep bench of soloists including saxophonists Sheldon Brown, Larry Delacruz, Marcus Stephens, and Charlie Gurke.

Past collaborations between the ESO and Avotcja have produced powerful moments like "Matter Is," where her edgy, provocative poetry is backed by tribal-sounding harmonies and steady drumbeats, and "Metaphysical Decision," featuring her captivating, rap-like delivery over swinging rhythms. Reviews praise Avotcja's "commanding spoken word poetry" and "electrifying delivery," while the orchestra is noted for playing with "cohesion and assurance" developed through years of weekly residencies.

This performance offers a preview of material destined for recording, showcasing the unique blend of sophisticated big band jazz and contemporary poetry that has made this collaboration a standout in the Bay Area's rich musical landscape.