The sound of Diggs Duke's music can best be characterized as a fresh, yet familiar interpretation of the bond between soul and jazz. Within the last year, the American vocalist, instrumentalist and composer has released a steady stream of quality music that's been dominating playlists from LA to Indonesia. Shortly after the release of his debut EP, “Gravity,” as well as several ambitious singles, the music was swiftly placed into the rotation of taste-makers across the US and Europe, including Gilles Peterson in the UK and Lefto in Brussels.

Mentored by alumni of the bands of Max Roach, Cecil Taylor and Frank Foster, Duke's jazz ideals blend well with the hip-hop, r&b and latin music of a 90's upbringing. The result is a stellar mix of raspy vocals, fascinating horn arrangements and adventurous song forms, never losing sight of the perfect groove. The supporting quintet for this appearance at DROM will include several of Harlem's finest young musicians, as well as a few visitors from the leader's home base of Washington D.C.

Rachel Brotman is a NYC native vocalist, composer and pianist whose music is rooted in jazz-based improvisation amidst r&b influences, and culminates into smart, soulful tightly woven compositions and arrangements. She is joined by Yago Vazquez (piano), Zach Lane (bass) and Anthony Taddeo (drums).