Tue Nov 25
Supernova performs music in Multi-D from the threshold of Jazz to beyond space and time. With with Justin Mendez - tenor sax, Josh Evans - trumpet, Allyn Johnson - piano, James King - bass
Nasar Abadey, a renowned American-born jazz musician, has made significant contributions to the jazz world, particularly in the sub-genre of free jazz. With his exceptional drumming skills and natural improvisational abilities, Abadey stands out as a formidable presence in the jazz realm. His dynamic style masterfully blends avant-garde and classic jazz elements, captivating listeners with passionate and soulful performances. Abadey is celebrated for pushing boundaries and exploring new musical territories, earning acclaim from critics and fellow musicians alike.
As the founder and leader of SUPERNOVA, Abadey performs music that transcends the traditional boundaries of jazz, drawing inspiration from African rhythms, bebop, fusion, modal, and free form. Influences include jazz legends like John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Wayne Shorter, Duke Ellington, and Dizzy Gillespie. Abadey began playing drums at age five, influenced by drumming greats such as Tony Williams, Max Roach, and Elvin Jones.
Abadey's band, SUPERNOVA, released their debut CD, Mirage, on Amosaya Records, followed by Diamond In The Rough on DPC Records. They were selected by the US State Department and Lincoln Center as Ambassadors for the American Music Abroad Rhythm Road, touring East Africa. In 2017 he received the Jazz Leadership and Service Award from the Capital Hill Foundation. In 2023, Abadey was honored with the Benny Golson Jazz Masters Award by Howard University and received the Jazz Service Award from the Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival in 2024.
Abadey has performed with numerous Jazz greats, including Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Rouse, Ella Fitzgerald, and Eartha Kitt. He has also graced various festivals worldwide, such as the San Remo Festival in Italy, Montreal Jazz Festival in Canada, and the Chicago Jazz Festival.
For the past 20 years, Abadey has served as a Professor of Jazz Percussion, Jazz History/Analysis, and Jazz Combo at the Peabody Institute of Johns Hopkins University. He also conducts workshops and teaches privately. Abadey has received numerous awards for his contributions to jazz, including the Lifetime Achievement Award from the DC Jazz Festival and the Jazz Leadership and Service Award from the Capitol Hill Jazz Foundation.