Ombak's Framing the Void set for release

Trombonist and composer Bryan Hooten is pleased to announce the release of Ombak’s debut album, Framing the Void, on Wednesday, April 29, 2009 at 9:30 p.m. at Cous Cous (900 W. Franklin). There is no cover charge for the show. Comprised of all original compositions by Hooten, Framing the Void draws from the sounds of […]

April 1, 2009; 8:07 PM • by Dean Christesen

Comprised of all original compositions by Hooten, Framing the Void draws from the sounds of jazz, math rock, salsa and the avant garde. The album was recorded live at Minimum Wage Recording by Lance Koehler and chronicles the music performed and explored during Ombak’s bi-weekly gig at Cous Cous.

Formed in the fall of 2006, Ombak is an instrumental quartet that has performed at various locations around Richmond, including Gallery 5 and The Camel, and has performed regularly at Cous Cous since May 2008. Hooten is joined by a dynamic trio of some of Richmond’s finest musicians: guitarist Trey Pollard, bassist Cameron Ralston and drummer Brian Jones. In addition to its participation in the local live music scene, Ombak’s commitment to educational outreach has taken the band all over Richmond for workshops and performances at local schools, including engagements at Hanover High School, The Collegiate School, Maggie Walker Governor’s School and Trinity Episcopal.

RVAjazz.com writes of Ombak, “They combine to bring heavy metal beats, neo-soul dance grooves, and stylish improvisation to the masses. It is no secret that Richmond prizes musicians who can really shred on their instruments, and Ombak offers this in addition to skillfully written compositions with infinite variety and versatility.”

RVAnews.com says of Hooten’s music, “Tunes straight from the caves of steel that we call Bryan Hooten’s mind make you move, but then maybe stop and think, but then move again…it can get complicated all that moving and thinking, but when you’re done, you’re satisfied.”

Beginning in May 2009, Framing the Void will be available at every Ombak performance and at Plan 9 Music, All-Star Market and Deli, and Rumors Boutique in Richmond, Va. The CD will also available online at iTunes, CDBaby and Amazon.com.

More information on Ombak can be found online at the following Web sites:

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