After five years of playing together in every musical configuration—from duo to band mates on a packed stage—guitarist Larry Roy and bassist Steve Kirby are releasing their highly-anticipated debut CD, Wicked Grin. It’s everything you’d expect from these dynamic players: spirit, wit, muscle, and soul.

Larry Roy has been making a mark on the Winnipeg jazz scene for over two decades as a performer and a composer/arranger. Steve Kirby left a vigorous performing and writing career in New York in 2003 to set up the bachelor of jazz studies program at the University of Manitoba. They began to play together almost as soon as their paths crossed.

Wicked Grin was kick-started by a Project COOL award in 2006. By that point, both Roy and Kirby had established a strong musical relationship, and were keen to commit their energies to writing, arranging, and recording.

“This recording represents the richness of a fruitful five-year friendship and musical association,” says Larry Roy. “We have developed such a strong rapport that recording together was a natural progression. The Project COOL support was perfectly timed.”

Kirby agrees: “It’s great to get back in to the studio again, and having a chance to record original material with all of these amazing players has been really inspiring.”

The disk contains primarily original material by both Roy and Kirby, as well as new tunes by Winnipeg wunderkind pianist Will Bonness, who’s been playing with them solidly for the past couple of years. All three players have a remarkable expressive range, and true virtuosity on their instruments. Anna-Lisa Kirby offers smoky vocals on a couple of cuts. Rounding out the band are two musicians who’ve established international reputations: New York vibraphonist Stefon Harris and Atlanta drummer Terreon Gully. Christian Dugas and Miron Rafajlovic add their voices to the mix as well.

Wicked Grin also marks the debut of a new label. dig! Records will showcase an eclectic range of talent under the artistic vision and direction of Steve Kirby. Larry Roy will contribute his recording and production savvy to the new venture.