Michael Shrieve – Drums of Compassion (7D Media, 2024)
Renowned drummer Michael Shrieve released the remarkable Drums of Compassion, back in May 2024. The album, a culmination of over fifty years of musical exploration, features collaborations with prominent world music and jazz musicians such as Babatunde Olatunji, Jack DeJohnette, Zakir Hussain, Trey Gunn, and Airto Moreira.
Inspired by the Dalai Lama’s call for compassion and Babatunde Olatunji’s 1959 album Drums of Passion, Shrieve’s project began two decades ago. The album features an introductory vocal incantation by Olatunji and continues with masterful bridges to various musical traditions and cultures, from colorful and diverse world music to progressive fusion and deeply spellbinding electronica. In addition, Michael Shrieve adds a spiritual component that reflects his personal expression of artistic and transcendental intent.
In addition to the artists mentioned earlier, the album includes contributions by Amon Tobin, Raul Rekow, and Karl Perazzo, among others. Shrieve expertly intertwines creative, dynamic drumming and percussion with ambient atmospheres and drones, crafted with sound designer and electronic music maestro Jeff Greinke.
Initially, the album was recorded at Robert Lang and London Bridge Studios in Seattle. The project was further developed during a gathering at the Bumbershoot Festival.
Shrieve describes the music as cinematic, ambient, and meditative, aiming to present drums in a unique, free-flowing environment, influenced by his experiences with other musicians and his exploration of various musical styles in Seattle. Indeed, the music is exquisite, with elegant drumming and, at times, a mesmerizing jazz café atmosphere.
The artwork, designed by Christo Downs and Penebranca, visually complements the album’s themes.
Produced by Michael Shrieve and Eric Oz.