Beyond the Veil by Jason Kruk
Fusion, Jazz
Beyond the Veil is a bold and immersive jazz-fusion album by drummer and composer Jason Kruk, exploring the space where technical mastery, spiritual inquiry, and deep improvisation converge. Drawing from the raw energy of New York’s contemporary jazz scene, the record moves fluidly between intricate, percussion-driven compositions and moments of open, ethereal expression.
Featuring an elite ensemble of modern jazz voices—including Wayne Krantz, Adam Rogers, and Snarky Puppy members Michael League and Bob Lanzetti—the album thrives on dialogue and interaction. Polyrhythmic textures, angular harmony, and groove-forward writing form the foundation, while fearless improvisation pushes the music beyond conventional boundaries.
At its core, Beyond the Veil is a work of faith and contemplation. Each piece reflects a step in a larger spiritual journey, using the language of jazz to articulate ideas that transcend words. The elemental themes woven throughout the album—earth, water, wind, and fire—mirror both the physical world and the inner life, creating a soundscape that feels grounded yet otherworldly.
Recorded at Mission Sound in Brooklyn, the album balances precision with risk, structure with surrender. Kruk’s compositions serve not only as vehicles for virtuosic performance, but as invitations—to listen deeply, to remain present, and to step beyond the familiar into a space of reflection, wonder, and divine connection.
Skope Magazine
“Beyond The Veil is a reflective and compelling statement… a work of considerable depth and ambition.”
Kruk’s suite-like approach “feels like music in conversation—responsive, fluid, and never static,” blending modern ensemble interplay with a deeply personal narrative.
Lemonwire
Described as an “inventive fusion epic,” the album balances “high-intensity rhythmic explorations with moments of deep, spiritual introspection.” Featuring an all-star ensemble including Wayne Krantz and Adam Rogers, the project marks Kruk’s emergence as a “visionary fusion composer.”
JW Vibe(Jonathan Widran)
“A compelling modern fusion statement full of thoughtful construction, freewheeling excitement and boundless purposeful energy.” Kruk “blends technical precision with a strong sense of musical storytelling,” guiding listeners through a “constantly shifting sonic landscape.”
Credits:
Jason Kruk - drums, compositions
Wayne Krantz - Guitar
Adam Rogers - Guitar
Bob Lanzetti - Guitar
Michael League - Bass
Fima Ephron - Bass (electric & upright bass)
Art Hirahara - piano, Fender Rhodes
Brian Donohoe - tenor saxophone, sound effects
Produced by: Jason Kruk
Recording Studio: Mission Sound, Brooklyn, NY
Recording Engineers: Oliver Strauss Miles Turney
Mixing Engineer: Dan Millice
Jason Kruk is a New York City–based drummer, composer, and educator with over two decades of experience performing across a wide range of musical styles—including jazz, funk, fusion, Afro-Cuban salsa, theater and pop—and touring with rock bands, jazz ensembles, singer-songwriters and a radio broadcast big band. He holds a B.A. in Psychology from Lawrence University and an M.M. in Jazz Studies (Drumset Performance) from the University of North Texas, has studied under renowned teachers such as Ed Soph, Ignacio Berroa and David Garibaldi, and has appeared at notable NYC venues like the Bitter End and the 55 Bar as well as on recordings featuring his original work. Over his career he’s collaborated with a diverse roster of artists, performed internationally, and endorses Evans drumheads, Ottaviano cymbals, and Vulcan drums.