Roland Guerin, the multifaceted New Orleans bassist, singer, songwriter, and producer, is thrilling audiences with his latest musical venture, a cutting-edge EP titled Prog:Funk. This release follows the success of his Burl Audio Song of the Year winning single “28 Days” and showcases Guerin’s innovative blend of progressive rock and funk, infused with his signature jazz sensibilities.
The Prog:Funk EP has already garnered critical acclaim, making its mark on Tidal’s 50 Most Out There Jazz releases and Apple Music’s curated New Rock playlist. The project benefits from the high-quality studio gear Guerin won from the Song of the Year contest, alongside the creative energy cultivated during a reflective pandemic period spent with his young child.
Critics have praised the EP for its bold sounds and profound lyrics. Gambit / NOLA’s music critic highlighted tracks like “Bridge To Open Waters,” a preview of Guerin’s full-length studio album expected later this year, and “I Propose,” a commentary on digital age dynamics and the value of community. The EP’s themes range from the appreciation of time in “Crunch Time” to calls for societal progress in its title track.
Guerin’s bass grooves, refined through years of collaboration with icons like Dr. John and Allen Toussaint, form the backbone of the EP. Prog:Funk is described by the American Blues Scene as a “gumbo of influences” that melds the precision of prog rock with the energetic rhythms of jazz, blues, and funk.
Having toured internationally with renowned acts from Alvin Batiste’s Jazztronauts to The Marcus Roberts Trio and beyond, Guerin continues to evolve his distinctive Prog:Funk genre. His music, celebrated on stages from WWOZ-FM to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation, showcases his commitment to innovation and excellence.
Fans can catch Guerin live during his March tour of Finland and at a special Jazz Fest season kickoff at The New Marigny Theatre on Friday, May 3. Additionally, Guerin is set to perform at the Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival with Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band on Sunday, June 16, promising an unforgettable experience of orchestrated bass mastery.
Stay updated on Roland Guerin’s tour dates and upcoming releases by visiting his website.
