Jazz Saxophonist Riley Bandy Releases First CD and Introduces New York to Gospel Jazz

October 22, 2003 - Jazz alto saxophonist Riley Bandy and his Quartet have just released their first CD recording, Out of the Darkness. It features Bandy's signature style of straight-ahead jazz that has won him acclaim across the country. Bandy is taking music scene by storm and introducing music fans to Gospel Jazz - a phenomenon that is adding new dimension to the jazz scene.

The Quartet features Milan Milanovic on the piano, Adam Thomas on bass, Jameo Brown and Israel Bannerman on drums and special guest Greg Tardy on tenor sax. Bandy recruited these top NYC musicians to convert his passion for religion to the sounds of jazz, and has been sharpening the tracks on the CD for more than two years.

Riley moved to New York in 1997 to accompany jazz legend Abbey Lincoln for the recording of her album Who Used to Dance. He has also played with jazz notables such as Wynton Marsalis, Roy Hargrove, and Cyrus Chestnut .

Bandy's brand of jazz, while religious based, is jazz at its best. He keeps it pure, yet modern with a more acoustic sound that preserves the beauty of traditional jazz. Jazz fans everywhere are drawn to his unique style that has been polished by his passion for religion and the artform, combined with several years of playing with the pros.

Out of the Darkness is now available on www.Tower.com and www.CDBaby.com.

ABOUT CTA RECORDS
Founded in the Spring of 2003, CTA Records (www.ctarecords.com) is the first Bronx, NY-based jazz label. CTA Records is dedicated to presenting music of the highest artistic caliber by promoting original jazz music by some of New York City