Biography
Heavy Merge originated in New York City during 1997, when bassist Orlando Marin, Jr. joined forces with singer Genevieve Gazon to establish the jazz ensemble. Their initial performance took place at the local venue The Dark Star Lounge, and the group has since described its sound as a distinctive blend of Latin funk and soul. Marin, who spent his formative years immersed in music, continues a legacy partly shaped by his father, the Latin musician Orlando Marin, Sr. Gazon, already experienced in the industry, previously launched two rock bands and contributes as a skilled songwriter. The lineup further includes keyboardist Tino Derado, drummer Robert Bonhomme, saxophonist Pablo Gil, percussionist Peter Basil, and background vocalist Carolyn Saxon, while saxophonist Ken Gable and keyboardist Shai Bachar periodically contribute performances. In 1999 the band completed its self-titled debut album, issued on the FunkSandwich Music label, which was succeeded the following year by the EP Elektra. Buoyed by an expanding audience, the musicians soon began preparing a second full-length release slated for 2001. Among the songs featured across these recordings are “Other Side,” “Mother Instinct,” “A Story,” and “Stand Alone.” Heavy Merge has appeared at clubs both within New York and beyond, collaborating along the way with Norman Connors, Marion Meadows, Blessid Union of Souls, and Stephanie McKay.
Albums