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Debut album from Grand Rapids’ Desmond Jones showcases eclectic musical diversity

John Nowak, Chris Bota, John Loria, Issac Berkowitz and George Falk of Desmond Jones
Psychedelic Eyes Photography
John Nowak, Chris Bota, John Loria, Issac Berkowitz and George Falk of Desmond Jones

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Desmond Jones, the funk/rock/jazz fusion band is releasing its debut album on October 10.

After meeting in college at Michigan State University and playing gigs around the Lansing area, the five-piece band has settled in Grand Rapids.

I spoke with drummer John Nowak and guitarist Chris Bota about their eclectic musical diversity. 

"We do a lot of jamming, that's for sure. We love the improvisational aspect of our music, but there's another side to us that really values songwriting," said drummer John Nowak. 

Listen to the interview above to hear samples from the new album; plus, Nowak and Bota talk about the challenges that come up when making music; and why Michigan is a special place to be a musician.

Desmond Jones' CD release shows are in Grand Rapids at Founders Taproom on Sat., Oct. 7; and in Traverse City at Union St. Station on Fri., Oct. 27 and at Rare Bird Brewpub on Sat. Oct. 28.

Support for arts and culture coverage is supported in part by an award from the Michigan Council for Arts and Cultural Affairs.

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Copyright 2021 Michigan Radio. To see more, visit Michigan Radio.

Mercedes Mejia produces interviews for All Things Considered, including the music segment Songs from Studio East. She also produces content for Stateside. Mercedes relocated to Michigan from New Mexico, where she earned her BA in Latin American Studies and Journalism. She began in public radio as a reporter atKUNMin Albuquerque. She brings extensive video production skills from her work at Univision and Edit House Production.