Our guest this week on the Standing 'O' Project/Art of the Song Coffee Break is steel pan virtuoso Jonathan Scales.

Jonathan Scales is one of the most innovative steel pannists on the planet, and is redefining and challenging traditional expectations of his signature instrument. In his hands, the sonic palette of an instrument often associated with cruise ships and tropical resorts is radically expanded to mimic the role of horns, piano, vibraphone or marimba due to his stunning, virtuosic technique. He’s got a new album coming out featuring a pantheon of top-notch players, many of whom Scales grew up listening to and idolizing. I’d love to connect him with you for a conversation on The Standing O Project to discuss his new album as well as how it’s themes of loss, perseverance, and triumph reflect Scales’ own journey as an artist who has honed his craft while to taking bold musical risks. Scales’ latest release, PILLAR—his sixth album, and fourth release on taste-maker label Ropeadope—is a testament to the grit and tenacity he possesses. The record features an incredible cast of special guests, including banjo pioneer Béla Fleck, bassists Victor Wooten, Oteil Burbridge and MonoNeon, trumpeter Christian Scott, Tunde Adjuah, saxophonist Jeff Coffin, keyboardist Shaun Martin and percussionist Weedie Braimah. 

http://www.jonscales.com 

The STANDING 'O' PROJECT is about fair trade music streaming--excellent musicians and exceptional fans taking over the music business. You're invited to find good, new, non-commercial music in a venue that lets musicians have an actual revenue stream. Come and connect with artists on a whole new level. Support musicians with an unheard of 50/50 split of proceeds. And gain access to rare music, video and interview content. You can be part of this revolutionary community and matter to the music at www.standingoproject.com