Ed Koban
Niagara Falls, NY | Established. Jan 01, 2012 | SELF
Music
Press
I have had the pleasure of working with Ed Koban and his group at the Native American Music Awards, and have subsequently had Ed perform live with me and record on my daughter Leah Shenandoah’s award winning release spɛktrə. His is a very capable and talented musician and producer. I have enjoyed working with him and look forward to working with him in the future. - Joanne Shenandoah- Grammy Winning Native American Artist
Ed Koban is to the Native American Music Awards what Paul Shaffer is to Late Night with David Letterman. His professionalism is only equaled by his talent and easy nature. We at the Native American Music Association hold Ed and his band in the highest regard, their ability to deliver for our artists has yet to find its limits. A very professional and very talented group of musicians. - Ellen Bello - President of the Native American Music Association
“Widely known as part of the Native American Music Award house band, Ed Koban is a talented guitarist. Playing the flute is also a part of this skillful artist’s career, which is distinguished by his energetic stage shows. From the Kennedy Center to concerts with some of Native America’s most dynamic artists, such as Pura Fe and Dylan Jenet Collins, this great Native musician has a truly classic career”
— Dr. Dawn Karima, Radio Host, Journalist, Author, Native American Music Award Winning Artist. - Pow Wow's .com
(Exceprt)
Q) If we came to see you perform, what could we expect? What’s the signature trait of your musical shows?
A)I like to think you could expect to go home happy after seeing us. We put a lot of energy and effort into what we do, and really try to have that translate to our performances. Whether it’s a solo flue gig or the full band, you can expect us to work hard to make sure you’re glad you didn’t stay in for the night, or catch a movie. I’ve been told that my playing has a particular feel that people can tell when it’s me, that might be my signature trait.
Read more: http://www.powwows.com/2014/05/06/energy-and-entertainment-a-visit-with-ed-koban/#ixzz3z19FgbXa - Native Hoop Media
Discography
Ed Koban's debut release How to Fly is a collection of songs that expose a musician whose emotions and soul are on display in the form of 12 tracks that give a view into a unique artists essence.
Recorded from July through December of 2014. The support and encouragement from around the world for this innovative artist to bring his music to the masses has been humbling and inspiring.
From the African inspired Eastern Creek, to the haunting acapella flute of Song for Troy, to the powerful reworking of the Ten Years After classic I'd Love to Change the World,or the rocking title track, How to Fly is an album that defies categories and genre. It's snapshot into the heart and soul of an artist who let's the listener decide what the music means to them.
"The music on this CD was inspired by so many people, places, events, and emotions, that I can't even explain with words. It's a liberating feeling to expose parts of yourself through music. The support and encouragement I have received along the way has made it a rewarding experience in way's I was not expecting. The musicians who I was fortunate enough to have join me on this record were a vital part of it's sound and it would not be the same work with out them. I hope that people respond to it and find something in it that connects it to them in their own way. That, to me is what makes music magic." - Ed Koban
Photos
Bio
Like the waters that roar over the edge in his hometown of Niagara Falls, Ed Koban's music can be beautiful and evocative, or raging and powerful. An artist not quite like any other, Ed's music defies categorization. His sound is much like the man himself, unable to be confined by style or genre. Ed Koban's latest release How to Fly blends the gorgeous & haunting Native American flute with guitar playing that ranges from gentle acoustic to blistering electric Rock & Blues, combined with sounds inspired by music from Africa to Chicago, from Folk to Jazz, Reggae to Rock, makes for a fresh new sound that is accessible to music fans from all genres.
Ed Koban is a guitarist and Native American Flutist, from Niagara Falls, NY. He has performed on stage with several respected artists including, Grammy Winners Joanne Shenandoah, and Janice Marie, Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Inductee: Nokie Edwards, as well as: Pura Fe, Gabriel Ayala, Tonemah, Star Nayea, Cody Blackbird, Leanne Shenandoah, Jim Boyd, Keith Secola, Dylan Jenet Collins, and others. He has shared the bill with groups such as: Foghat, Three Dog Night, Blackfoot, Molly Hatchet, Indigenous, Rusted Root, and has performed nationwide with artists at venues like the Kennedy Center and the 2002 Winter Olympics.
Since 2011 Ed Koban has organized and led the House band for the Native American Music Awards. This international awards show has been broadcast around the world and has featured artist such as: Robbie Robertson, Richie Havens, Nelly Furtado, Wayne Newton, Rickey Medlocke of Lynyrd Skynyrd & Blackfoot, Taste of Honey, Joanne Shenandoah and many more.
Armed with a group of experienced world-class musicians, this unique and driven artist is primed to bring his unique sound to the world. Ed Koban's live performances are engaging, intimate, energetic and animated always leaving the crowd eager for more.
Ed Koban brings talent, professionalism, and a drive that translates to a performance that people will remember and want to experience again and again. Be it a live solo performance or with his group, or performing with other established artists on stage, or in the studio, Ed Koban's passion and sound leave his distinct mark that you won't soon forget.
Band Members
Links
