“There’s a certain density of emotion that contrasts with the ambiguous, elusive nature of a lot of modern jazz.  And that’s all to the good, especially when the guy can play his ass off too, recalling Chick Corea, Dave Brubeck . . .” —Mark D. Fefer, Seattle Weekly

Born in Istanbul, award-winning composer and pianist Fahir Atakoğlu is well known for his ambitious symphonic works and music for film.  He has composed music for many of Turkey’s top musicians, and earned a loyal international following through the release of eighteen albums, including the critically acclaimed Istanbul in Blue (2008), and his latest release Faces & Places (2009), both featuring jazz/rock fusion with traditional Turkish influences.  Employing unique rhythmic, melodic and harmonic sensitivities, Atakoğlu’s music reflects his many different cultural influences, which combine to create compositions with striking originality that still play in tune with the culture of his motherland.

“As a follow-up to his hard-hitting fusion offering, 2008’s Istanbul in Blue the accomplished Turkish-born pianist-composer-arranger Fahir Atakoglu casts a wide stylistic net on Faces and Places, deftly incorporating musical elements from Spain, Brazil, the Middle East and New York City into the compelling mix. On board for this dynamic outing are such world-class players as trumpeter Randy Brecker, guitarists Wayne Krantz and Romero Lubambo, Yellowjackets saxophonist Bob Mintzer and the outstanding rhythm tandem of bassist John Patitucci (a longstanding member of the Wayne Shorter Quartet and a composer-bandleader in his own right) and the great Cuban drummer Horacio “El Negro” Hernandez.” – Bill Milkowski

Fahir maintains an intense touring schedule, including his recent sold out shows at the world renowned Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles, and Carnegie Hall in New York City, further establishing his worldwide appeal.