Avataar - Juno Winner 2022

About the Band:

Avataar is a world-jazz group led by saxophonist/flutist/vocalist Sundar Viswanathan. Earmarked by JAZZFM91 as one of the ‘Best 25 Albums of 2021’, the band’s sophomore album Worldview won the 2022 JUNO Award for Best Jazz Album (Group). The music is inspired by the deep musical traditions of India, Africa and Brazil, rooted within the framework of modern jazz. In an innovative marriage of ancient and modern, driving grooves intersect with cinematic atmospheres and soaring melodies, creating a fresh, emotive sonic experience. Bandmembers share an eclectic range of musical expertise - hardbop, pop, rock, electronica, free improvisation, world and R&B/Soul filter into the interpretations of the tunes. Avataar also features Laura Swankey (vocals), Michael Occhipinti (guitar), Rich Brown (bass), Derek Gray (drums) and Ravi Naimpally (tabla). Both Worldview and Petal (Avataar’s debut CD (2016)) received critical acclaim internationally from publications including DOWNBEAT, JAZZIZ, allaboutjazz, Jazz Weekly, and worldmusiccentral.com. Production of both albums and upcoming live video was generously supported with grants from Ontario and Canada Arts Councils.

The band’s original compositions are informed by artists including Shakti, Jarrett, Oregon, Jan Garbarek, AC Jobim, Robert Glasper, Snarky Puppy, Kenny Garrett and Ornette Coleman, and at their core are imbued with an intent toward political and social change and a spiritual focus that transcends the sound. While Avataar’s debut album, Petal, explored the evanescence of human life and was a call for a return to spiritual connectedness, Worldview attempts to also present a musical commentary on the state of our world, on the pandemic and on the inability of our leaders to lead with integrity, honesty and compassion. While the actions of our leaders affected so many, some of the songs started as gut

responses to the treatment of children, our most valuable and vulnerable citizens, and act as vehicles of catharsis for the composer.