Akenda is a progressive jazz band composed of students at Berklee College of Music; I first saw them perform six months ago and was quite impressed at that time. I am even more impressed now.

Bert Cheshire

Formed by Bert Cheshire, Akenda has a new/old drummer and is even better than before.The band reminds me of a young Return to Forever, even though they incorporate elements of electronic music as well as classical music.

Bert

Bert on guitar and vocals, Lee Dockery on bass, Devon DiPaulo on keyboards, Kaj Sorensen on drums, and manager Evans Carter on some vocals comprise the band.

Kaj Sorensen

Devon DiPaulo

Evans Carter

Lee Dockery

Yes, there are vocals but the real emphasis of Akenda is on instrumentality. There is also a lot of improvisation, which seems atypical of a band that is young. Their ages, however, belie their musical maturity.

Devon and Bert

They perform only original songs; the quality amazes me each time I hear them.

Bert

Anyone who appreciates not only good music but inventive music should enjoy Akenda. Follow them on Facebook to find their live performances. Theirs is music to be experienced.