Album Notes

Urban Survival is very active in the New York City music scene where it has played to capacity crowds at world-famous venues such as the Knitting Factory and Birdland. The group also tours nationally, performing in concert venues, clubs, and at festivals.


Eric Olsen's approach to the piano and composition reflects his deep respect for the artistry of Bill Evans and Keith Jarrett. A seasoned classical as well as jazz pianist, Eric has recorded with the internationally recognized opera singer, Kevin Maynor, and has perfomed with jazz guitarists Ed Cherry and Bucky Pizzarelli.

Jim Donica met Eric at Indiana University while playing bass in the 21st Century Bebop Band, under the tutelage of the great jazz musician, David Baker. Jim's vast resume includes performing and recording with Maynard Ferguson, jazz guitarist David Becker, and the Clash's Joe Strummer.

Chris Bowman joined forces with this dynamic duo when they moved to New York. A seasoned veteran of the east coast avante-garde scene, his cedits reflect recordings and performances with Jamaaladeen Tacuma, Jane Ira Bloom, George Garzone, Dave Binney, Annette Peacock, Percy Jones, Bern Nix, Badal Roy, Paul Bley, Leo Smith, David Frank's The System , Jon Hassel's Fourth World Music, and a founding member of Dave Bryant's Shock Exchange.


John Isley has performed and recorded with artists such as Bernard "Pretty" Purdie, Matt "Guitar" Murphy, New Power Soul, Ray Mantilla, Reggie Workman, They Might Be Giants, Iguazu, Joe Gallant & Illuminati, Tony Trischka, New York Horns and composer Jose Halac. Other credits include the Bill Cosby cartoon "Little Bill", the films "Moanin' For Momma" (Isaac Hayes) and "BYOB" (Kevin Shinall); and composing music for TV shows such as Maury Povitch & Sally Jesse Raphael.