While best known for his drumming with groups such as Maynard Ferguson’s “Big Bob Nouveau Band,” and the “One O’clock Lab Band”, Joel Fountain is also a prolific composer. Joel earned his degree in Jazz arranging from the prestigious University Of North Texas, and has spent many hours in front of a piano writing and scoring for jazz ensembles. Armed with a band of world class jazz musicians, Joel Fountain’s first album release “saturn return” is an eclectic mix of heartfelt instrumental compositions. The band is comprised of Paul Tynan on trumpet, Jeff Eckels on Bass, Wayne Delano on Saxophones, Steve Anderson on piano, Noel Johnston on Guitar, Scott Trayer on bass, and Joel Fountain on drums. All of these musicians are former members of the famed “One O’clock Lab Band.” and each are exceptional jazz musicians who perform and teach worldwide. Joel describes 'saturn return' as "modern jazz meets new age," as while the musicians are all fine jazz performers, the compositions and the music do not follow standard jazz procedure; It allows for longer song structures and expanded improvisatory sections, and 'saturn return' allows excellent space for fantastic guitar work by Noel Johnston and beautiful extended piano solos by Steve Anderson. Given the somewhat romantic song forms, "Saturn return" is both subtle and powerful, and draws much influence and comparison to the ECM works of the 70's and 80's. Justin Litun of IAJE Canada said in his review; "this is a fine album from start to finish." Joel Fountain was born in Ontario Canada, but was quickly whisked away by his family to the beautiful South Island of New Zealand, where he spent his youth growing up in the garden city of Christchurch. There he was inspired by nature and natural beauty, and this is reflected in his music and the compositions. Following his dreams, he was lead to Canada, and then to Texas where performed as a freelance drummer in the Dallas/Ft Worth Area for many years. Joel has also toured across the world and performed at jazz festivals and stages worldwide, including the Blue Note in Manhattan, Ronnie Scotts In London, Jazz Alley in Seattle, and many more.