This week on the Nu Soul side we Saluting Abstract Truth

Abstract Truth lives on the edge of classification, weaving jazz with soul, R&B, african and latin rhythms, rock, gospel, blues, and funk. The musical foundation is the subtle, masterful interplay of the Drums (Zachuri Durham) and Bass (the band’s founding member, G. Lawrence). On top of that groove, the Sax (Roy Richardson Jr) Keys (Vince Stith) and Vocals (Valarie Ford) create a rich, vibrant and complex melodic and harmonic world echoing everything from straight ahead jazz to rock. Borrowing from this rich tapestry of musical traditions, Abstract Truth manages to create a sound that is at once fresh and familiar, honoring the masters who came before them, while creating a sound all their own. Their music does not represent Grover Washington, Weather Report, Sly & the Family Stone, Miles, Anita Baker or War – instead Abstract Truth takes the musical tradition they have inherited from these masters, and moves humbly forward, adding their own unique voice to this timeless lineage.

THE BAND CONSISTS OF;

G Lawrence - Bandleader, Bassist and Backing Vocals

G Lawrence, a native of Philadelphia, PA first picked up the bass after watching original Pieces of a Dream bassist, Cedric Napoleon perform at John P Turner Middle School when the band was known as A Touch of Class back in the 70's. G Lawrence (founding member of Abstract Truth) has been playing bass for the last (30+) years studying all styles of music including classical and Jazz through Settlement Music School. G Lawrence has shared the stage with a wide variety of artists including Maze - featuring Frankie Beverly, Angela Bofil, War, KEM, Al Green, War, The Ohio Players and Parliament, just to name a few. G Lawrence has released several self-produced CD’s, which have enjoyed radio airplay around the country. The CD's showcase his writing, recording and producing skills in addition to his talents as a bassist.
Valarie Ford - Lead Vocals and Percussion

Growing up in Philadelphia, PA. Val, (as most people call her) began her career as the lead vocalist for the vocal group "Philly Cream". They went on to record such hits as "Ain’t No More Motown Revue" and "Love Can‘t Turn Around". This in turn led to shows with such artists as New Edition, The Dells and Harold Melvin &The Blue Notes. She has also worked along side such artists as Phyllis Hyman, Denise Williams , Gene Chandler and Billy Paul. If you have not experienced a live performance by Valarie Ford, you have yet to experience a true professional at work.
Vince Stith - Keyboards, Lead and Backround Vocals

Vince began his musical career in church , singing and playing for "The Sounds Of Faith", an 80's voice choir. Upon completion of high school Vince began working with such acts as Patti Labelle, Harold Melvin & The Blue Notes , Ray Goodman & Brown , The Stylistics , Billy Paul and The Delphonics just to name a few. Travels have taken Vince to places like Germany , Egypt , Finland , Aruba , St. Martin , Brazil , Bermuda , England , Amsterdam , Singapore , Malaysia , Indonesia , Shanghai , Korea , Guam and Japan where He, along with singer extraordinaire, "Valarie Ford" have amazed audiences with their performances at such venues as Island Shangri-La , Ramada Presenti , Sonesta , Studio East Inc. , Ritz Carlton ,Grand Hyatt ,Excelsior Hotel and Ramada Resorts.

Zachuri S Durham - Drums, Percussion, Lead and Backround Vocals

Born in Philadelphia, PA., Zack started playing drums at the young age of 14. He studied with one of the great drummers of jazz, "Allen Nelson". Zack, has performed with world renowned recording artist Sun Ra, Monet Sudler, The Ebonys and Jean Carne. He has been performing for more than 30 years.
Roy Richardson Jr - Alto, Tenor and Soprano Sax, Vocals and EWI

Roy started playing flute at the age of 9. He performed in his first talent show when he was 14 and at that point was addicted to music. Roy did international tours with Queen Esther Marrow and the Harlem Gospel Singers from 1999 -2000 as a singer/saxophonist, percussionist and flautist. Roy also traveled with the national Broadway production of "The Civil War" starring Be Be Winans, Larry Gatlin and John Schneider. Highlights of his career include performing at the Montreal Jazz Festival in 1998 and at the Vatican for the Pope in 1996. He has worked on projects with the likes of Leon Huff of Philly International Records and performed on stage with the greats like the late Woody Shaw, Charles Earland. Jimmy McGiff. Narada Michael Waldon, Norman Connors, Mitchell Jones, Marcus Cole, Franklin Bubby Fann and Christopher Lewis just to name a few.