ABOUT KNEEBODY

In their almost two-decade history, the Grammy-nominated band Kneebody has created a genre and style all its own. Their sound is an explosive blend of rock energy and high-level, nuanced chamber ensemble playing, set within the frames of highly wrought compositions that balance adventurous, no-holds-barred improvisation.

Now, in 2025, Kneebody embarks on an exciting new chapter with the release of their highly anticipated album, Reach, set to drop on April 18 via GroundUP Music. This marks the band's latest project as a quartet, featuring keyboardist Adam Benjamin, trumpeter Shane Endsley, saxophonist Ben Wendel, and the uniquely dynamic Nate Wood, who simultaneously handles both bass and drums. Reach exemplifies Kneebody’s continued evolution, pushing the boundaries of genre while delivering their signature blend of intricate composition and raw energy.

The album’s lead single, "Repeat After Me," is already available for streaming, giving audiences a first taste of Kneebody’s refined yet adventurous approach. Saxophonist Ben Wendel describes the track as a "cheeky song" that channels a Morse code-inspired melody through shifting harmonies and groove-driven intensity. With Reach, the band showcases their ability to weave together complex rhythmic structures, fiery improvisations, and a profound sense of collective synergy.

Kneebody’s journey began in their late teens at the Eastman School of Music and CalArts, where they formed deep musical connections that ultimately converged into the band’s distinctive voice amid the vibrant Los Angeles music scene in 2001. Since then, they have garnered critical acclaim and built a dedicated international following. Their music defies classification, drawing from influences that include 1960s free-bop, 1970s jazz rock, 1990s hip-hop, and post-millennial indie rock, all infused with a classical post-minimalist sensibility.

Throughout their career, Kneebody has continuously innovated, earning a Grammy nomination for their 2009 collaboration with Theo Bleckmann on 12 Songs of Charles Ives. They have released a series of boundary-pushing albums, from The Line (2013) on Concord Records to Kneedelus (2015), a groundbreaking collaboration with electronic artist Daedelus on Flying Lotus’ Brainfeeder label. Their discography also includes Anti-Hero (2017, Motéma Music), By Fire (2019), and Chapters (2019), their first full-length release as a quartet, featuring collaborations with Becca Stevens, Gretchen Parlato, Michael Mayo, Gerald Clayton, and Josh Dion.

With Reach, Kneebody is not just releasing an album—they are signaling a new era for the band. As they prepare to take the new music on the road, fans can expect an electrifying tour filled with their signature unpredictable energy, tight interplay, and spontaneous musical risk-taking. With a legacy of innovation and a future that continues to defy expectations, Kneebody remains at the forefront of modern creative music.

Stay tuned for tour dates and further updates.