Kansas have announced that violinist/guitarist Joe Deninzon is joining the band to succeed the departing David Ragsdale.
Deninzon has been hailed by critics as "The Jimi Hendrix of the Violin," because of his innovative style on the "Viper" seven-string electric violin. He is the lead singer and violinist for the progressive rock band Stratospheerius and can be heard on over a hundred albums and jingles as a violinist and string arranger.
Deninzon has performed and/or recorded with a number of big bands and artists, and as a soloist with Jazz at Lincoln Center and the New York City Ballet. A BMI Composer's Grant recipient and winner of the John Lennon Songwriting Contest, he has written solo works for violinist Rachel Barton Pine, and in 2015, premiered his Electric Violin Concerto with the Muncie Symphony Orchestra.
Kansas drummer Phil Ehart said the band is extremely excited for Deninzon to be the newest member.
"We believe KANSAS fans will enjoy what Joe will bring to the band. We are excited to kick off the Kansas 50th Anniversary Tour. As the paragraph in the band's first album said, 'KANSAS IS A BAND' and we remain so to this day," he added.
"As a lifelong fan of Kansas, I am overwhelmed and humbled to have been invited to join this legendary band! I have the deepest respect for Robby and David and will do my best to honor and build on their musical legacy," said Deninzon.
Deninzon will make his debut for Kansas at the Benedum Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, on June 2, when the band kicks off their 50th Anniversary Tour - Another Fork in the Road.
(Photo: Kansas)
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