Kiefer

Kiefer is a pianist, producer, and composer whose music bridges modern jazz, hip-hop production, and expressive solo piano traditions.

His work has earned the rare distinction of being signed to both Stones Throw Records and Blue Note Records, two of the most influential labels in hip-hop and jazz, signaling his legitimacy and impact in both scenes. A Grammy Award–winning producer for his contributions to Malibu by Anderson .Paak, he has collaborated with artists including Dr. Dre, Kaytranada, Stanley Clarke, De La Soul, Pete Rock, Terrace Martin, Kenny Beats, Walter Smith III, and Nate Smith. Drawing from influences ranging from Herbie Hancock to Los Angeles beat-makers like Madlib, Kiefer’s music balances technical sophistication with emotional immediacy, pairing lush harmony with minimalist, hypnotic grooves.

GENA

There is a kinetic energy that binds drummer and producer Karriem Riggins and singer-songwriter, rapper, and producer Liv.e—the spark that happens when instinct meets flow and spirit finds rhythm. Their collaborative debut as GENA (short for “God Energy, Naturally Amazing,” and loosely inspired by Gina from Martin), The Pleasure Is Yours (out 2/27/2026 via Lex Records), feels like a playful, soulful conversation between two kindred improvisers: Liv.e’s smoky, unpolished vocals glide through Riggins’ warm, percussive universe. Rooted in jazz, soul, and hip-hop as living language, the Dallas-born Liv.e brings a raw, experimental approach to R&B, while Detroit native Riggins—known for his work with Common, Erykah Badu, The Roots, Madlib, and a close kinship with the late J Dilla—extends his lifelong dialogue between jazz improvisation and beat science. Together they create a world that’s analog and ethereal, percussive and poetic, bridging eras without ever settling in one; The Pleasure Is Yours is the sound of Liv.e and Riggins bringing each other’s music to life and finding a new language together—one rooted in rhythm, vulnerability, and exuberance.

CARRTOONS

Renowned New York multi-instrumentalist Ben Carr, better known as CARRTOONS, has become one of today’s most sought-after producers through his eye-catching social media videos, flawless live performances, and the quickfire success of his albums, “Saturday Morning” and “Homegrown”.

The unique bass lines and highly identifiable sound of CARRTOONS have quickly led to 4 NPR Tiny Desk appearances and co-signs from DJ Jazzy Jeff and Pete Rock. Carr has collaborated with pivotal names across genres, from Usher to Freddie Gibbs, Roy Ayers, Nate Smith, Kiefer, George Clinton, Jadakiss, and beyond, all while never sacrificing the retro-inspired sound that has driven his career to where it stands today.

CARRTOONS’ latest project, “Space Cadet”, stands as a collaborative triumph, featuring Pale Jay, Rae Khalil, Wiki, Erick the Architect, Phonte, and many more. This latest effort has earned high praise from musicians, critics, and fans alike, and will be followed by international tour dates in 2026.