Heart of the Valley (album) by Eric Koppa & Heart of the Valley
Jazz-Swing-Be-Bop
Highlighting the stellar state of the artistic community in Wisconsin’s Fox Valley, Eric Koppa’s latest album, Heart of the Valley, finds him and his all-star group of fellow jazz masters from the region shining on five inspired jazz tracks. Showcasing the advanced artistry found in the Fox Valley, this album delivers a vibrant journey through diverse jazz styles.
Happy – A joyful, groove-filled tune blending Latin and African rhythms, featuring vibrant solos and an infectious melody.
Chief Oshkosh – A bluesy homage to Koppa’s journey, inspired by the rhythms and spirit of Wisconsin’s Fox Valley.
Angel – A heartfelt tribute to McCoy Tyner, highlighting open harmonies and soaring solos in an avant-garde jazz setting.
Na Razie – Playful and adventurous, this Polish-inspired farewell brims with dynamic interplay and rhythmic energy.
New Frame for the Blues – A soulful, swinging tribute to Richie Cole, with smooth septet arrangements and rich solos.
With never a dull moment, Heart of the Valley celebrates the vibrant artistic energy of the Fox Valley. Streaming everywhere.
Artist Statement:
Eric Koppa’s music is a reflection of the vibrant artistic community in Wisconsin’s Fox Valley, particularly Oshkosh, where he lives and creates. As a saxophonist, composer, and bandleader, Koppa draws inspiration from the region’s rich culture and collaborative spirit. His latest album, Heart of the Valley, represents both a personal and collective journey through jazz, blending genre traditions with diverse influences from around the world.
Heart of the Valley is a celebration of artistry and connection, showcasing the advanced musicianship of the Fox Valley’s jazz community. Each track tells a unique story, from the infectious joy of Happy and the bluesy roots of Chief Oshkosh to the soulful tribute to Richie Cole in New Frame for the Blues. These compositions serve as dynamic conversations, grounded in the rhythms of life and elevated by the creativity of Koppa and his ensemble.
Koppa’s work honors the traditions that shaped him while exploring new pathways for connecting with listeners. With Heart of the Valley, he contributes to keeping jazz vibrant, relevant, and deeply human, celebrating the artistry found in his home region.
Credits:
Eric Koppa alto & tenor saxophone
Tom Washatka: alto saxophone
Marty Robinson: trumpet
Tim Albright trombone
Noah Harmon: piano
Mark Urness: bass
Zach Harmon: drums
Michael Underwood: darbuka, doumbek
Recorded at Steel Moon Recording Studios, Oshkosh
Tom Washatka: recording engineer
Doug Krebs: mastering engineer
About Eric Koppa:
Eric Koppa is an Oshkosh, Wisconsin based jazz saxophonist and graduated from Western Michigan University with a degree in Jazz Studies. Eric has toured nationally and internationally and has studied and performed with artists including, the late drummer and long-time Madison, Wisconsin resident, Clyde Stubblefield, saxophonists Richie Cole, Bob Berg, Seamus Blake, Tom Washatka, Walt Weiskopf, Chris Potter, James Carter, Sharel Cassity, Chad LB, pianists Danilo Perez, Kenny Werner, John Harmon, and composers Frank Mantooth, Johannes Wallmann, and Maria Schneider. Eric performs throughout the Midwest with Wisconsin ensembles including the Water City Jazz Orchestra, the Pocket Kings, the Harmon Brothers, vocalists Erin Krebs, Johnny Rodgers, Johnny Chimes, and blues artists, Paul Stilin, and the Blues Disciples.