MATRIX

Matrix biography
MATRIX (originally started under the name MATRIX IX) is a fusion group from Appleton, Wisconsin formed in 1974. The group came to be from Lawrence University jazz program where most of the original band members met, including Larry DARLING, Kurt DIETRICH, Mike HALE and Jeff PIETRANGELO. The line-up would expanded with additions from the wider area after starting with initial tours and they picked up Mike MURPHY and John KIRCHBERGER from Milwaukee, Brad MCDOUGALL from Miami and Randy TICO from Santa Barbara. While the line-up would change with replacements throughout their career, the group counted nine members during their most active period which allowed them to give their brand of fusion the kind of almost orchestral treatment that smaller brass rock groups didn't have the ability to. They released a couple of albums until the early 80's before taking a break but the group has reformed multiple times in modern times for live performances and even a studio album.

The group didn't rise to fame of some of the bigger names even though throughout the 70's they received some recognition at Monterey and Newport Jazz Festivals and opened shows for the likes of Pat METHENY and WEATHER REPORT; their music can recommended to fans of the latter.