Album Notes

Jasper Kump has been described by Elliott Forrest of A&E's Breakfast with the Arts as a "fresh new talent...full of fire." With influences from jazz and gospel to folk and theatre, his voice has heart and soul. "Sunday In New York" is his first full-length CD and is filled with a wonderfully eclectic mix of music. It's a celebration of life, love and New York City. While all but one of the tracks are songs originally performed by other artists, Jasper brings a new perspective as he sings these gorgeous new arrangements by Russ Kassoff. The one new song, "You Are All The World To Me", is a warm and touching ballad with lyrics by Deidre Broderick and music by Russ Kassoff. The band on "Sunday In New York" is nothing short of brilliant! Their bios and credits read like "Who's Who" of popular, jazz and theatre music. Russ Kassoff (Arrangements/Musical Direction/Piano and Keyboards) has worked with legends such as Frank Sinatra, Liza Minelli, Rita Moreno, Carol Sloane and Sylvia Sims - just to name a few. Martin Wind (Bass) is part of the incredible Bill Mays Trio and has recorded several CDs and worked with jazz greats Pat Metheny, Bucky Pizzarelli and more. Warren Odze (Drums) has worked on numerous Broadway shows as well as well-known artists such as Rod Stewart, Peter Cincotti and Peter Allen. Gerry Niewood (Saxophone/Flute) has worked for decades with Chuck Mangione and has graced the recordings of such stars as Simon and Garfunkel, Ann Hampton Callaway and many others. Jesse Levy (Cello) has performed with such household names as Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Luther Vandross and Madonna. Jasper was born in California and knew early on in life that he was destined for great things. Some are even convinced that Jasper was born singing! When he was five years old, he stole the stage as the Little Drummer Boy. By the age of 11, Jasper decided to utilize his passion for entertaining people and joined the Artist in Residence Program in Germany. He spent much of his adolescence in Europe focusing his studies on spiritual, jazz, and popular music. Along with pursuing his dreams in the classroom, Jasper took every chance he got to perform. In 1987, Jasper performed for President Ronald Reagan and Mrs. Reagan at Berlin's 750th anniversary celebration. Shortly thereafter, Jasper returned to the United States and continued to pursue his love for music and theater. Not only did Jasper take the opportunity to sing in the Vocal Jazz Ensembles at California State University, Long Beach, he also performed in several musicals and concerts including Into the Woods (Jack), Fiddler on the Roof (Tevye), You're a Good Man Charlie Brown (Charlie Brown), The Scarlet Letter: A Musical Romance (Chillingworth), Follies (Young Buddy) and Lagunatics. Jasper not only comes to life on stage, but he is also passionate about composing music. Prior to "Sunday In New York", he recording a five-song EP of original songs entitled "Real", his skills have also led him to commercial success composing music for advertising and corporate use. Jasper lives in New York City. What critics have said of Jasper and his work: "Jasper...sings with fervent passion." - Showmusic Magazine "Jasper...revels in his role." - Coastline Pilot (LA Times)