Zen Skin Sound Lab

Paying his dues with over 20 years on the New York City club scene, this master of guitar phrasing and elegance has added his touch to a series of instrumental pieces as varied as his influences.

As Timothy Klugh wrote :

"Zen does not seem to fear taking on the established genres and twisting them out of proportion. In fact, he seems to break the rules joyfully. Zen is one of a kind, and I am glad I've heard his work!"

The founder of The Second Step, a second generation ska band in NYC in the 80's who quickly absorbed the work of NYC musicians in punk, jazz, funk and latin flavors. Zen toured the country with acts such as the Toasters, Jimmy Cliff, Toots and the Maytals, Gil Scott Heron, The Maura McCabe Band and others. "I got away from that scene for a total disdain for touring", he explains, but has kept music as a private obsession.

Over the last 7 years you might have seen him sitting in at jam sessions around town -- blowing through Thelonius Monk or Charlie Parker compositions.

"I love playing and have no illusions about setting the world on fire or fame and money. Music is in my bones. It's just something I do."