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| James “Biscuit” Rouse Release New CD “Conversations in Analog Part 1” World renowned drummer, singer, musician, and producer James "Biscuit" Rouse debut CD "Conversations in Analog Part 1, " a mostly instrumental jazz EP is where Funk meets Soul and gives birth to the Groove. The EP features eight songs, including the lead single "Lemme Getta" with vocals, written and sung by the very talented Mavis "Swan" Poole, is an instant classic that music lovers will enjoy for years to come. Other highlights from the album include the soul-stirring remake of the Beatles Classic "Strawberry Fields", and the unrelenting funk on "Freedom." James "Biscuit" Rouse is very much in demand, currently touring with Lauryn Hill, Nile Rogers and Chic, Kindred the Family Soul, and also the Apollo House Band. Rouse has also worked with, Stevie Wonder, J. T. of Kool and the Gang, Dawn Robinson, Talib Kweli, N'Dambi, Bilal, Kelly Clarkson, Jazmine Sullivan, Kelis, Karen Bernod, Chubby Checker, Karina Pasian, Bobbi Humphrey, Gerald Veasley, and jazz bassist Mike Henderson from the Miles Davis ensemble to name a few of the world class talent that he has worked with. Born and raised in Philadelphia, James "Biscuit" Rouse, who now resides in New York, came by his love of music naturally. Rouse first picked up a pair of drumsticks and began singing at the age of 5 years old. Rouse was completely immersed in music, from Church, his home and even his high school, Philadelphia High School for the Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA). "Growing up in Philly was great; there was always something different to listen to, " Rouse remembers. "My time at CAPA really opened my mind to different genres of music." After receiving his Bachelor of Arts in Jazz Performance and Music Tech from Temple University, Rouse began expanding his career, which included moving from Philly to NYC. A move Rouse credits being the biggest turning point in his musical career thus far. In addition to his prowess on the drums, Rouse has carved out a nice niche for himself as a singer. "When I was a kid and I sang, the way people cried and the attention I received; I knew I loved performing, " said Rouse. When Rouse is not touring with any of a plethora of world class artists, he practically lives in the studio, or spends time with his violinist wife Charisa, sometimes fishing, swimming, cooking, trying to unwind and clear his mind to enable him to write more songs. "What I have learned, " noted Rouse, "is to be comfortable with me and to always play from my heart." Rouse's musical influences include not only the usual suspects like Stevie Wonder, Donny Hathaway and Phil Collins, but he also draws inspiration from his uncle, Kevin Outterbridge, Reverend Randy Oliver, Omar Hakim, EWF, Mint Condition and Amir "Quest-Love" Thompson among others. James "Biscuit" Rouse has product endorsements from: Vic Firth, Yamaha, Paiste, Pintech, Aquarian Drumheads and Audix Mics. Rouse is available for interviews, sideman and sessions, and also tours and festivals with "The James Biscuit Rouse Band." write your comments about the article :: © 2012 Jazz News :: home page |