Bios

Japhy Ryder is raw, driving, instrumental rock--brought to you by an air-tight rhythm section, melodic rock guitar, and effects-laden trumpet--all for your listening pleasure.

The band is composed of a tight-knit quartet of musicians living, working, and playing in Burlington, VT. Over the past few short years, Japhy has played nearly 300 shows, quickly becoming one of the Northeast’s must-see up and coming acts. With an ever growing touring regiment, an increasingly hungry fan base, and the chops and musicianship to back it up, Japhy Ryder is poised to start bringing their music to the far reaches of the globe.

In addition to steadily logging club dates at venues including VT’s Higher Ground and Nectars, NYC’s Knitting Factory and Lion’s Den, NH’s Stone Church Theater, Boston’s Paradise Lounge, Cleveland’s Beachland Ballroom and Grog Shop, and Philadelphia’s Grape Street, Japhy has also performed at a variety of festivals including Camp Bisco V, Gratefulfest 8, Northeast Kingdom Music Festival, and Hookahville. Japhy has also provided direct support for artists such as Femi Kuti, The Roots, Lotus, Ozomatli, Tea Leaf Green, The Spam All-Stars, and Bernie Worrell, among others.

April 2008 hailed the arrival of Japhy Ryder’s sophomore album “No Consequence.” Featuring 11 tracks, this latest release showcases the various genres of music that make Japhy Ryder.

Here is a quick bit about each of us. (photos J. Michaels)

Will Andrews (Trumpet) - Will has been playing the trumpet since the 3rd grade, but it wasn't until the 9th grade that he began delving into the world of jazz. By playing in many jazz bands, funk bands, wind ensembles, and rock bands, Will began to shape his playing style. From playing in various types of groups Will has taken something from everyone to create a unique trumpet sound and playing style. His all balls attitude and in your face playing style is what pours more funk on the already funky Japhy Ryder fire.

Jeremy Kizina (Guitar) - Jeremy was born in Pittsburgh, PA and grew up in Wilkes-Barre, PA. He started to play guitar at the age of 13 and soon began to study jazz theory and harmony. After gaining much experience with various ensembles that range from live hip-hop to big-band swing, Jeremy's musical aspirations led him to northern Vermont where he received a degree in music from St. Michael's College in 2004. He continues to perform and compose with his current ensemble Japhy Ryder in which he strives to find a unique and original voice on his instrument.

Patrick Ormiston (Bass) - Pat started life in Rochester, NY where he first picked up the bass in middle school. After working his way through high school and college jazz bands, Pat found himself in Burlington with a genre blending background and the desire to "just lay it down."

Jason Thime (Drums) - "I like to play" - Garth Algar