| Greg's
unique style is the product of an unusual and varied musical
history. Greg's
work is influenced by his collaborative experiences
with a remarkable range of
innovators from Beck to visionary keyboard
inventor Bob Moog.
As
a Los Angeles native, Greg Kurstin spent most of his childhood at
the piano and
ultimately, Greg's affinity for music extended to just
about any instrument he
could find, and by the time he was in high
school, was playing in many eclectic
bands around the Los Angeles area.
After
high school, Greg moved to N.Y.C. to study with Charles
Mingus' piano player,
Jaki Byard, at The New School. Soon after, Greg
was playing with jazz legends
such as Bobby Hutcherson and George
Coleman. While in N.Y. Greg also spent much
of his time playing and
studying Brazilian Music and instruments.
Upon
his return from New York, Greg began writing and recording
music with Geggy Tah,
an eclectic band which he co-founded. David Byrne
of the Talking Heads heard
their music and signed the band to his Luaka
Bop label.
Soon after Greg began playing and recording with a variety of artists
including: Beck, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Mathew Sweet, Jane's Addiction, Ben
Harper, Rilo Kiley, Bob Moog, among many others. During this time was also
musical director for Gwen Stefani's live and television
performances.
Keep a look out for Greg's recent co-writes
and productions with Lily Allen, Kylie Minogue, Peaches, Flaming Lips,
Karen O, All Saints, Sia Furler, Pink, Natasha Bedingfield, Donna Summer,
just to name a few.
Also look out for Greg's band with Inara George
called "The bird and the bee" out now on Blue Note.
|
Ed Jefferson
