Chris Joris

Known for his extensive knowledge of world percussion styles, especially utilizing African, Indian, and Brazilian instruments, Chris Joris got his start in 1976. He had been a pianist up to that point, but bass player Johnny Dyani hooked him up with a gig and the transition to percussion went smoothly. The next few years signaled a whirlwind of activity, including work with saxophonist Andre Jaume, a percussion trio with Ajib Bieng and Cheikh Tidiane Fall, and countless sessions with notable world jazz players. By the 90's, he cut down his activity and worked notably with tuba player Bob Stewart and saxophonist Pierre Vaiana. Finally, outside of forming his own touring band, Joris released Songs for Mzbizo in America, a legendary world jazz album that had never had a proper Stateside release since its recording in 1976.