Joe Zawinul’s Music Odyssey Now Available
Listen to Joe Zawinul’s Music Odyssey – Now Available
The lasting imprint on Jazz left by Joe Zawinul cannot be measured; from his work with Miles Davis, to the creation of jazz fusion, to Weather Report and the Zawinul Syndicate, his persistent exploration left both a foundation for young artists and gave them permission to explore. While his extraordinary keyboard artistry—recognized with an unprecedented 28 DownBeat Readers Poll awards as Best Electric Keyboardist—has long been celebrated, Joe Zawinul’s Music Odyssey shines an equally deserving spotlight on his remarkable body of compositions. Decades after they were written, Zawinul’s music remains vibrant, daring, and unmistakably contemporary. In 2026, these compositions continue to sound as forward-looking as ever, driven by the same spirit of innovation that made them timeless.
The first edition of this six-month project to celebrate Joe Zawinul stems from a powerful live performance at the prestigious Wolkenturm arena at Grafenegg in 2024. The Zawinul Legacy 3.0 Live@Grafenegg album is set for release on August 28th, led by legendary drummer Omar Hakim, former Weather Report alumnus, whose commanding presence and rhythmic mastery drive the music forward. The band is anchored by the soulful, deeply grooving bass of former Zawinul Syndicate member Gerald Veasley, alongside the rhythmic magic of percussionist Robert Thomas Jr., a vital force in both Weather Report and the Zawinul Syndicate. Keyboardist Rachel Z delivers captivating melodies and expansive textures, while saxophonist Bob Franceschini adds soaring, tasteful lines that embody the adventurous spirit of Zawinul’s sound.
Joe Zawinul’s Music Odyssey will unfold from August 2026 through April 2027, presenting a rich, multi-format celebration that includes exclusive physical editions, stunning concert film, and immersive video experiences. Each release offers a new perspective on the music of one of jazz’s greatest innovators, inviting longtime fans and new audiences alike to rediscover a legacy that continues to inspire.
This ambitious project is made possible by Gang of 4Films and producer/director Tony Zawinul, whose vision brings Joe Zawinul’s extraordinary musical journey to life for a new generation.
