For those unaware, Beyond the Veil is a sophisticated jazz-fusion project by drummer and composer Jason Kruk that serves as a sonic exploration of the boundary between the physical and the metaphysical. Featuring an elite ensemble of modern jazz heavyweights — including guitarists Wayne Krantz and Adam Rogers, and Snarky Puppy members Michael League and Bob Lanzetti — the album uses intricate, polyrhythmic textures to bridge the gap between structured composition and ethereal improvisation.

At its core, the project is a profound expression of faith and worship, utilizing the complexities of jazz to articulate a spiritual journey that words often fail to capture. The title suggests a journey into the unknown, reflecting a concept of uncovering hidden layers of musical expression and spiritual depth.

Thematically, the record is characterized by its otherworldly atmosphere, blending the raw energy of New York’s contemporary jazz scene with deeply introspective, atmospheric elements. Kruk’s percussion-led compositions act as a guide through these complex soundscapes, moving from aggressive, high-energy fusion to moments of peaceful stillness.

By bringing together diverse musical voices from the vanguard of modern jazz, the project creates a dialogue that feels both grounded in technical excellence and untethered by traditional constraints, effectively pushing the listener Beyond the Veil of conventional sound and into a space of divine contemplation.

1. Ascension
2. Awakening
3. The Lion
4. The Ox
5. The Eagle
6. The Man
7. Dad
8. Water
9. Wind
10. Earth
11. Fire
12. Creation

The NYC based drummer, composer, and educator who has spent 30 years leaning into the nuances of jazz and groove, he opens his new recording on the flourishing Ascension, the sterner fare of Awakening, and the fervently sculpted The Lion, before we were gifted an adorning The Ox, the rockier, drum-fed The Eagle and then the guitar blues-rock of The Man.

Along next is the low slung ambiance of the beautifully restful Dad, the emotive Water and the frenetically-charged Wind and they are in turn backed seamlessly the earthy blues vibe of Earth, the organically sculpted, all-embracing Fire, with the entire new set coming to a close on some synth-fused particles that dart freely within the hyper thrilled guitar and drum work of Creation.

Musicians:
Jason Kruk, Drums, Compositions
Wayne Krantz, Guitar
Adam Rogers, Guitar
Fima Ephron, Bass
Michael League, Bass
Bob Lanzetti, Guitar
Art Hirahara, Piano
Brian Donohoe, Tenor saxophone

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