The Des Moines Big Band, a storied ensemble that goes back to the 1950s, has played with some of the greatest names in jazz, from legends like Clark Terry to some of the more local household names such as Scott Smith. Led by renowned trumpeter/arranger Dave Rezek, this organization is in residence at Noce on Wednesday nights.
Drummer Peter A. Zimmer, born September 18, 1977 in Waukesha, Wisconsin, moved to Queens, New York in June of 2001 to submerge himself with many of the world's best jazz musicians and he quickly became recognized for his uncanny swing and propulsive authority; all while maintaining a sense of musicality that is rare with a number of current jazz drummers.
In May of 2004, Pete Zimmer launched his record label, Tippin' Records, and on September 7th, 2004 released his first album as a leader, Common Man, which was called "an impressive debut" by the Philadelphia Daily News.
On February 7th, 2006, Pete Zimmer and his quintet recorded his second CD live at Manhattan's Jazz Standard. Burnin' Live at the Jazz Standard was released June 13th, 2006. Upon the release of Burnin' Live, Modern Drummer Magazine declared, "Take note pronto of this young up-and-coming drummer/leader on his second disc. Rooted in hard bop, albeit shaded with modern harmonies, the quintet is winning while Zimmer's drumming boasts a crisp, swinging command with judicious musicality."
Zimmer's third release as a leader, Judgment, features tenor saxophone titan and mentor to Zimmer, George Garzone and this release was again welcomed by jazz fans and media alike. Down Beat Magazine claims that "Judgment is packed with memorable pieces" and Mike Joyce from the Washington Post said "Expect to hear more than a few appealing tunes from "Judgment."" Judgment was heard on the air nation-wide and was featured on Music Choice Cable TV jazz station throughout the USA.
Mr. Zimmer's highly anticipated fourth release, Chillin' Live @ Jazz Factory, is coming out September 2nd, 2008. This live recording was conceived in Louisville, Kentucky at the Jazz Factory during a USA tour in September of 2007. The quartet features rising-star trumpeter Jeremy Pelt.
Pete Zimmer continues to perform and present educational clinics throughout the USA and recently toured the United Kingdom headlining London's premier jazz club, Ronnie Scott's.
Bill Milkowski, a contributor to JazzTimes and Modern Drummer, says, "Stay Tuned. There's a lot more to come from this talent deserving of wider recognition.