Kaiso Street Collective is a new ensemble made up of some of Toronto’s most exciting improvisers and composers, all of whom share deep musical and cultural ties to jazz and Afro-Caribbean traditions.
Led by Juno-nominated, Trinidadian-born saxophonist Jesse Ryan—grandson of the late calypso icon Clifton Ryan, The Mighty Bomber—the group is dedicated to bringing the golden age of calypso to new audiences through the lens of modern jazz. With bold arrangements and deep respect for tradition, the ensemble reimagines calypso as a living art form rooted in both resistance and joy.
Each season, the group will spotlight the work of a legendary calypsonian, preserving their legacy while celebrating the global impact of calypso as a force for cultural expression and social change. In its inaugural season, the Collective is premiering the music of The Mighty Bomber and one of his greatest influences, The Mighty Spoiler (Theophilus Philip).
Personnel:
Jesse Ryan music director, alto and soprano saxophones
Alexander Brown trumpet, flugelhorn
Jeff La Rochelle tenor saxophone, clarinets
Kelsey Grant trombone
Andrew Marzotto guitar
Ewen Farncombe piano
Michael Davidson vibraphone
Roberto Occhipinti bass
Anthony Daniel drums
Check out: “Part 3” “Part 2” 2023
