Podcast 229: A Conversation with Nick Demopoulos

Formed in 2001, EXEGESIS is made up of bandleader/guitarist Nick Demopoulos (best known to many readers as the guitarist in Chico Hamilton’s latest group), bassist Danton Boller (who toured with Roy Hargrove), and drummer Tomas Fujiwara.  EXEGESIS has performed throughout the United States, Europe and the Middle East, and participated in the "American Music Abroad" program sponsored by Jazz at Lincoln Center and the U.S. Department of State. Labeling the band is not something that comes easily. The Harmony of the Anomaly (on indie label Dems Dem’s Demos), their second CD as a band, showcases the group’s unique blend of soundscapes, including electronic jazz, live samplers, interactive music software, and complex compositions.  Fave rave Gretchen Parlato guests on vocals on a track as well. I spoke with Nick Demopoulos as the group prepared for their CD release and a release concert on Sunday, September 18 at 8PM @ DROM, 85 Avenue A, New York City (Tickets: $10, www.dromnyc.com). We discussed the technical aspects of the band’s music and how their “gimmicks” can serve their music, and his upcoming solo releases. Click here to listen to the Podcast, which features music including: EXEGESIS - “Aigon” from The Harmony of the Anomaly. The CD kicks off with a fusion-y scorcher that features some studio trickery to accomplish the guitar solos. EXEGESIS – “The Maze of Death” from The Harmony of the Anomaly. Gretchen Parlato lends her vocals to a complex, sometimes dissonant piece that shows that the band is ready to push through a number of musical boundaries. International Fiction – “I Am A Gorgon” from I, Medusa. One of two projects Nick has in the hopper outside the group, this is a recording of the musical score of a theatre piece Nick co-wrote with playwright Ford Wright. Watch for a release later in the fall.