Roses

Legendary Danish jazz fusion band Santa Cruz is set to release their new digital album, Roses. Featuring a powerhouse lineup of five of Denmark’s most accomplished musicians, Frans Bak (keyboards), Poul Halberg (guitar), Bo Stief (bass), Hans Ulrik (saxophone), and Klaus Menzer (drums), the album showcases the band’s signature blend of rich harmonies, striking melodies, and Scandinavian sensibility – seamlessly fusing jazz, rock, funk, and classical influences.

With nine original compositions crafted by different band members, Roses showcases the collective artistry of Santa Cruz, blending their individual musical voices into a cohesive and dynamic fusion of genres.

Santa Cruz originally formed in the 1980s with legendary drummer Alex Riel. After a hiatus, they reunited in 2002 to honor their late bassist Jens Meldgård, leading to a Danish tour and the 2006 release of Cruisin’ – now with Bo Stief on bass. Since then, the band has continued evolving, and Roses marks a new chapter in their storied career. The recent passing of drummer Alex Riel in 2024 has deeply influenced their latest work, inspiring the group to explore new sonic landscapes while staying true to their jazz fusion roots.

The first single, Watch Me, is a fiery, funky tune that captures the band’s dynamic energy and masterful interplay. In contrast, the second single, Roses are Red – even in the Dark, paints an evocative musical picture of the break of dawn, that special moment when light begins to pierce the darkness. This striking contrast between the two singles reflects the band’s remarkable ability to traverse diverse sonic landscapes, seamlessly shifting between electrifying grooves and introspective, atmospheric soundscapes. Their musicianship extends beyond technical mastery, embracing a depth of expression that continually pushes the boundaries of jazz fusion.

For over three decades, Santa Cruz has been a musical playground for some of Denmark’s most accomplished musicians, and Roses is a testament to their enduring passion and creativity!