Zoo Too Trio is a forward-thinking jazz ensemble featuring pianist Michael Cain, guitarist Keith Price, and drummer Pheeroan akLaff. Their music pushes the boundaries of the traditional trio format, blending contemporary jazz with elements of pop, electronic, and cinematic soundscapes. With an emphasis on rich harmonic interplay, dynamic rhythms, and an exploratory approach to sound, The Zoo Too Trio presents a fresh and expansive take on modern jazz.
Michael Cain has long been recognized for his innovative approach to jazz piano. With numerous recordings as a leader, including Circa on ECM, Cain has explored the intersections of jazz, classical, and electronic music. His extensive career includes collaborations with Jack DeJohnette, Meshell Ndegeocello, and Ravi Coltrane, among others. A master of fluid improvisation and sophisticated harmonic textures, Cain’s playing forms the foundation of the Zoo Too Trio’s distinct sound.
Keith Price, a Canadian guitarist and composer now based in New Zealand, brings a unique perspective to the trio. As an educator at Auckland University, Price has developed a deeply personal approach to harmony and space, blending his influences from jazz, folk, and experimental music. His lyrical, atmospheric playing complements the trio’s forward-thinking aesthetic.
Pheeroan akLaff is one of the most dynamic and influential drummers in contemporary jazz. Known for his work with groundbreaking artists such as Cecil Taylor, Henry Threadgill, and Anthony Braxton, akLaff’s playing is both deeply rooted in tradition and constantly pushing into new rhythmic territories. His ability to shape and propel the trio’s sound makes him an essential part of its creative energy.
Together, Zoo Too Trio creates music that is expansive yet intimate, structured yet free. Their debut album, Poetry Legroom, recorded in Brooklyn, NY, and set for release on May 16, 2025, via Shifting Paradigm Records, captures their unique chemistry and adventurous spirit. The album showcases original compositions from all three members, highlighting their ability to seamlessly blend acoustic and electronic textures.
With a shared vision for musical exploration and a deep respect for tradition, The Zoo Too Trio is redefining what a contemporary jazz trio can be, offering listeners an immersive and evocative sonic experience.