Division of Jazz Studies | College of Music

Alumni news from Kris Berg:

Kris Berg & The Metroplexity Big Band have released their first CD, “This Time/Last Year”, on the MAMA jazz record label in Phoenix, Arizona. The CD features all originals or arrangements by best selling big band composer, Kris Berg (BM ’86 / MM ’91), and features special guest artists Wayne Bergeron, Delfeayo Marsalis, Clay Jenkins (UNT) and Chris Vadala.

The Metroplexity Big Band includes Stockton Helbing (UNT), Tim Ishii (UNT), Collin Hauser (UNT), Bruce Bohnstengel (UNT), Jeff Robbins (UNT), Brian Clancy (UNT), Sarah Roberts (UNT), Kevin McNerney (UNT), Michael Burgess (UNT), Chris Seiter (UNT), Simon Willats, Milas Yoes, AG Robeson (UNT), Keith Jourdan (UNT), Micah Bell (UNT), Ken Edwards (UNT), Tyler Mire (UNT), Jack Evans (UNT), Kent Ellingson (UNT), Tom Burchill (UNT), Noel Johnston (UNT) and Roberto Verastegui (UNT).

The project was recorded, mixed and mastered at Crystal Clear Studios in Dallas and includes arrangements of “Softly, As In A Morning Sunrise”, “Night Dreamer” and “Gentle Rain”. Originals include the popular “R U Chicken?” as well as “This Time / Last Year”, “Games”, “Pah-Dáh-Pah-Dah”, “Forgotten Thoughts” and “I’m Okay, We’re OK!”

The international release date is scheduled for May 8, with electronic outlets shortly there after, but the CD is available now at: www.krisbergjazz.com.