Snarky Puppy / BTF 2017

Snarky Puppy are a special musical collective. With 25 musicians, including solo artists and producers, in regular rotation, the group is defined by versatility and an open mind, as well as the avowed intention to offer as broad a representation of American musical culture as possible.

The group was founded by composer and bassist Michael League, who initially recruited his bandmates from among the students of the jazz programme at the University of North Texas. They were later joined by drummer Robert “Sput” Searight, and keyboardists Shaun Martin and Bobby Sparks.

Snarky Puppy fundamentally changed the world of jazz. Their work has been acknowledged with several awards, including two Grammies. In addition to their own innovative projects, the band members also engage in extensive education programmes, and contribute to the concerts and recordings of such diverse artists as Lalah Hathaway, Laura Mvula, Salif Keïta, David Crosby, N’Dambi, Becca Stevens and Jacob Collier.