Michael Shrieve - Drums of Compassion

2024

Legendary drummer Michael Shrieve announces the much-anticipated release of his album, “Drums of Compassion,” set to drop at the end of May on Trey Gunn’s innovative label, 7D Media. This album is a testament to Shrieve’s artistic journey, encapsulating over fifty years of musical exploration and collaboration with some of the most revered names in the industry.

"Drums of Compassion" is not merely an album; it's an odyssey that began two decades ago inspired by the Dalai Lama's call for a Time of Compassion, with a nod to the title of Nigerian Percussionist Babatunde Olatunji's classic album from 1959, "Drums of Passion", which is one of the first records to popularize African Music to the Western World. This album is graced with an Introduction Vocal Incantation by Olatunji himself and acts as a bridge between eras, cultures, and sounds, embodying the spirit of unity and the transformative power of music.

The album boasts an ensemble of musical virtuosos, including Babatunde Olatunji, Jack DeJohnette, Zakir Hussain, Airto Moreira, Trey Gunn, Sherik, Amon Tobin, Raul Rekow, Karl Perazzo & others. Their collective genius creates a tapestry of rhythmic brilliance that transcends conventional music boundaries, offering listeners an immersive sonic experience.

Shrieve’s collaboration with Soundmaster Jeff Greinke lays the foundation of the album with ambient, space-evoking melodies that serve as a backdrop to the dynamic percussive elements. Recorded in the iconic Robert Lang and London Bridge Studios in Seattle, “Drums of Compassion” offers a rich acoustic experience, further enriched by contributions from world-renowned musicians during a serendipitous gathering at the Bumbershoot Festival.

The album’s artwork, crafted by the talented designer Christo Downs and artist Bruno Borges, mirrors the album's profound musical narrative, presenting a visual feast that complements the auditory journey.

“Drums of Compassion” is more than an album; it’s an offering from Shrieve to the world. It’s a declaration of the pure intentions of musicians, a prayer for compassion, and an invitation to explore the depth of human connection through the universal language of music.

Available in May 2024, “Drums of Compassion” promises to be a landmark release in Shrieve’s illustrious career and a beacon of hope and unity while inviting listeners to embark on a journey of musical and spiritual discovery.

Produced by Michael Shrieve and Eric Oz

Recorded by Eric Oz at Glenn Sound, and Ironornj Studio, Robert Lang at Robert Lang Studios, Rik Parashar at London Bridge Studios and Don Gunn at The Office. All in Seattle, WA

Mixed by Don Gunn and Eric Oz
Mastered by Don Gunn

Album designed by Christo Downs, cover illustration by Bruno Borges