On Friday, March 25, Sojoy return to the Dance Hall in Kittery after much excitement over the release of their debut album in November: “…one of the finest jazz recordings this area, and the world in general, has ever heard” (Portsmouth Herald). “On their exceptional debut, Sojoy brings Peiffer’s visions to life and inspires our own” (The Sound).

Sojoy has begun producing a series featuring special guest artists. Next up in the series Sojoy will be joined by pianist, singer, and composer Mark Shilansky. Originally from Concord, NH, Shilansky now lives in the Boston area and teaches at Berklee College of Music, as well as UNH. He has 5 recordings of his own under his belt, including his most recent ‘Fugue Mill’ project, and appears on many others. He has performed with greats like Donny McCaslin, Luciana Souza, Kenny Wheeler, and many more. Shilansky will add his skilled pianism and singing to the normally chord-less and instrumental Sojoy. He will also bring some of his own compositions and signature arrangements of pop tunes to add to the Sojoy sound, including Billy Joel’s sleeper hit ‘Rosalinda’s Eyes.’

Sojoy will be performing some of Jonny Peiffer’s brand new compositions, as well as a handful of Neil Young tunes recently arranged for a tribute show to the folk/rock star, all of which will feature Shilansky on keys.

Sojoy is a little big band modern jazz septet, built around drummer/composer Jonny Peiffer, that performs cinematic sound celebrations. The group is comprised of members from celebrated bands like Soggy Po Boys, Mother Superior and the Sliding Royales, and Shango Afrobeat Orchestra. They have been wowing audiences everywhere they go with their hummable melodies, warm harmonies and wildly creative solos. “Peiffer has mastered his own voice, proving that great music still exists even as new traditions are being forged.” - (Portsmouth Herald)

Sojoy Personnel:

Jonny Peiffer - drums

Zach Lange - trumpet

Josh Gagnon - trombone

Matt Langley - saxes

Eric Klaxton - alto sax

Nick Mainella - tenor sax

Scott Kiefner - bass

Mark Shilansky - keyboard, voice

Tickets are $12 in advance and $15 at the door and can be purchased at www.thedancehallkittery.org and www.brownpapertickets.com.