Life on the road - German-American pianist Benny Lackner knows it all too well. Widely respected for his relentless touring, he once performed 21 gigs on 21 subsequent days. At one point, however, he just yearned

for a place to lay his hat. The album ‘Drake’ is about his search for a home and a place of refuge.

From 1997 - 1998 Lackner studied privately with his mentor, pianist Brad Mehldau. He has performed at numerous jazz festivals including the North Sea Jazz Festival, Montreux and Monterey. He has worked with artists such as the late Billy Higgins, Marc Ribot, Brad Shepik, Pheeroan akLaff and is now residing in NYC and Berlin where he is working with his internationally touring trio as well as a sideman and composer.

With its unique blend of field recordings, drum loops and intricate improvisations, “Rise to the Occasion” has turned into something of a signature tune for Drake as a whole. It also perfectly summarises the recognisable electro acoustic style of the band and its commitment to carving out the essence of their musical ideas.