“His impeccable skills with the drums are fully realized by his overall ability with musical composition; it's an intoxicating match.” - Christine King
Daniel Criado Cabrales
An award-winning Colombian-born drummer, composer, and music educator
based in the New York area, whose genre-defying sound seamlessly blends the acoustic core of a traditional jazz quartet with modern soundscapes like synthesizers and live looping techniques.
Currently commanding attention on the international circuit, he is in the studio producing the debut album for his forward-thinking ensemble, Daniel & The Colors—a highly anticipated venture slated for release next year. Celebrated for his artistry across continents, critics at AllAboutJazz.com and TheJazzCorner.com have recognized his significant contributions to the contemporary music landscape, with his works featured on premier radio stations like New Jersey’s WBGO Jazz.
This high caliber of musicianship allowed him to share the stage with leading figures of the New York City jazz scene immediately after earning his Master's Degree from SUNY Purchase College. He has performed alongside Grammy Award winners and nominees, including David DeJesus, Corey Glover, Samara Joy, Joe Ferry, Brandon Lee, Manuel Valera, and the Birdland Big Band. His impressive roster of collaborations also features Latin-jazz and NYC jazz greats such as Jerry Madera, John Benitez, Zaccai Curtis, Pete Malinverni, Leon Parker, and Carlos Jimenez.
This stellar performance history has earned him elite endorsements from world-renowned brands Bosphorus Cymbals and CANOPUS Drums.
Daniel Criado's well-rounded and expressive drums ignite new single
(Published: July 06, 2020)
Composer/drummer Daniel Criado is on his way to bring a much-needed breath of fresh air to the jazz scene along with his own outfit, The Daniel Criado Project. He's had the opportunity to perform all over the world, even sharing the stage with some iconic international artists, making for a distinctive background and an impressive artistic pedigree.
His musical style is laced with personality and authenticity, bringing much character to the table. The artist's most recent studio release is titled "Those Affairs Within." It's a well-produced effort that reveals Criado's well-rounded creativity and talent.
This single features compelling production, with some great sounds that are incredibly smooth and easy to relate to. The piano melodies in the beginning are beautifully layered together, while the drum parts are a perfect match, cutting through the other instruments but never overpowering any other element in the song. Criado's drumming is incredibly expressive and dynamic, going from sultry crescendos to smooth and unobtrusive rhythm patterns that seamlessly accompany the music - or drive it forward when needed. The sound of the cymbals is particularly special here, with a feel that is never harsh nor too bright - just that vintage-style darkness typical of a golden-era jazz kit.
What I love about this composition is that it feels remarkably diverse, yet so consistent, retaining a moody vibe and a mellow tone. Ultimately, "Those Affairs Within" is very balanced, and the track feels like a perfect example of what it means to listen to an excellent jazz tune in 2020. The recording has a strong focus on portraying the band's authentic sound, highlighting the interplay between the musicians and the natural range of these performers rather than relying on too much studio alchemy.
This is definitely the sound of top-drawer players like Criado, bouncing off of each other to create something unique. Every instrument has its place and there is always room for something amazing to happen. Definitely check out The Daniel Criado Project if you do enjoy the sound of fellow musical artists such as Ari Hoenig, Julian Lage, Pietro Santangelo, and more. Criado's music is going to speak to you for its punch, authenticity, and appeal.