New York Axium

New York Axium (formerly known as Axiom) was a prominent Brooklyn-based jazz fusion group best known for representing New York City and placing second overall in the nationally recognized Willie Nelson/Wrangler Music Invitational show in Austin, Texas. They were also featured in DownBeat Magazine as having the best amateur jazz fusion recording.

The group initially formed after a successful recording for the Channel 5 Black News theme with Bill McCreary, featuring Greg Sam (guitar), Darryl Chalmers (drums), and Ronnie Richardson (bass). After saxophonist Eric Wyatt and others moved on, the lineup solidified with the addition of saxophonist Mark Gatz and keyboardists Ron Connor and Hal Cohen, allowing New York Axium to become a fixture on the New York City circuit, playing venues like the Lone Star Cafe, Mikell's, and the Bitter End.

New York Axium quickly gained visibility, performing at the Kool Jazz Festival and other venues throughout the metropolitan area. When Ron Connor was unavailable, the band frequently enlisted outstanding keyboardist Gene Williams. Their reputation grew as they shared the stage with musical giants, opening for Steve Gadd's The GADD Gang and Cornell Dupree with Richard Tee, and Eddie Gomez. Darryl Chalmers also shared the stage with the renowned drummer Dave Weckl, and for a period, they featured famous percussionist Gerardo Velez of Spyro Gyra. They also opened up for Miles Davis' band which included Daryl Jones on bass.

The band’s trajectory shifted as key members departed for new opportunities—including Ronnie Richardson, who played for the notable Roy Ayers and became the musical director for Phyllis Hyman. With members pursuing outside projects, New York Axium went on hiatus.

Now, following the passing of three beloved members—Ronnie Richardson, Mark Gatz, and Ron Connor—the surviving artists, Darryl Chalmers and Greg Sam, have decided to honor the band's legacy by finally releasing their unheard recordings under the name New York Axium.

Awards

• DownBeat Magazine's Best Amateur Jazz Fusion Recording

• 2nd Place, Willie Nelson Invitational

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