Winner of the first Montreux Jazz Festival International Piano Solo Competition, Leo Tardin conceived Grand Pianoramax as a live keyboards/drums duo with guest MCs/vocalists, blending powerful analog-synth bass lines, syncopated keys, organic drumming and freestyle spoken word improv/rap. Taking full advantage of this minimal and flexible set-up, Tardin has developed hybrid stylistic directions by joining forces with first-class NYC-based artists such as percussionist Karsh Kale and spoken word poets Mike Ladd and Black Cracker. Personnel: Leo Tardin (grand piano, Fender Rhodes), K-Station (harmonium, Philichorda), Dominik Burkhalter (drums), Black Cracker (spoken word, vocals - 2,6), Mike Ladd (spoken word, vocals - 8), Karsh Kale (tabla - 2,6), Keanan Evers, Michele Locatelli, Johannes Saal, Leo Tardin (sound design)