Layers Of Chance, the latest release from Dapp Theory, displays the band’s uncanny ability to blend various instrumental textures and infectious grooves, with lush harmonies and poignant, socially conscious lyrics.

Founder Andy Milne, whose jazz cred is evidenced by his work with such acclaimed artists as Ravi Coltrane, Ralph Alessi, Steve Coleman, and Cassandra Wilson, as well as by being voted “Rising Star Keyboardist” by Down Beat Magazine, composed much of the music on Layers of Chance as part of the Chamber Music America “New Works” commission he received in 2006. His efforts to stretch the boundaries of jazz are met by the inventive quartet of musicians who join him on the new CD: Loren Stillman on alto and soprano saxophone, flute and clarinet; Chris Tordini on electric and acoustic bass; Sean Rickman on drums and percussion; and percussive poet John Moon.

Formed in 1998 by pianist/composer Milne, Dapp Theory began as a vehicle to “tell passionate stories, promote peace and inspire collective responsibility in uplifting the human spiritual condition”. Since then, the band has evolved and built a loyal following, due largely in part to their commitment to grass-roots touring, an ideology more often associated with rock ’n’ roll bands. Their last CD, “Y’all Just Don’t Know” on Concord Records, released in 2003 with an ambitious collaboration with folk-rock icon Bruce Cockburn.

With a style that is indefinable, yet highly recognizable, blending influences ranging from Joni Mitchell & KRS One to Thelonious Monk & Van Halen, Dapp Theory is helping to re-draw and extend the boundaries of jazz.

Andy Milne > Piano, Keyboards
Loren Stillman > Alto & Soprano Sax, Flute, and Clarinet
John Moon > Percussive Poetry
Christopher Tordini > Electric & Acoustic Bass
Sean Rickman > Drums & Percussion

Guest artists:
Gord Grdina > Oud (Tracks 3 & 9)
Becca Stevens > Vocals (Track 6)
Latanya Hall > Add’l Vocals (Track 6)

Produced by: Sean Rickman & Andy Milne
Executive Producer: Andy Milne & Dapp Theory
All Compositions by: Andy Milne, Triborg Publishing (SESAC/GEMA)

Photography: Elle Hale
Graphic Design: Gabriele Donati
Original Dapp Theory Logo Design: Bryan Noll

Recorded by: Sean Rickman @ Zone One Recording (Jul. - Sept. 2006)
Additional Recording: Andy Milne (6,7,8,10) & Graemme Brown (Tracks 3a & 9)
Mixing: Sean Rickman, Andy Milne & Dick Rausch @ Innerface Studios, Annapolis, MD (Oct. 2006 - Feb. 2007)
Mastering: Graemme Brown @ Zen Mastering, Vancouver, BC (Sept. 2007)