Regularly nominated for Best World Music Act in the Cleveland Free Times and Cleveland Scene alternative newsweeklies, Drumplay creates what they call "rhythmprovisations". Their stated goal is "to create anew with each performance". One can continue to hear the evolution of this world/jazz percussion ensemble with this, their third release, entitled "Pyramid People". Harvey Pekar, subject of the critically-acclaimed film "American Splendor", had this to say of Drumplay's newest disc: "A percussion ensemble that formed in 1992 and has had a fluctuating lineup since, Drumplay - a group which blends Asian, African and Latin American styles - isn't your typical percussion ensemble. It produces shifting, layered textures and collaborates with local singers, dancers and musicians. Generally the most uninhibited of musicians, percussionists are traditionally known to sweat profusely and fling themselves around wildly when performing; but these guys really listen to and complement one another. Drumplay, which includes James Onysko on xylomarimba; Warren Levert on congas; Sam Phillips on timbales; Brett Brandon and Joe Tomino on drums; and Matthew Abelson on hammered dulcimer, is joined on these improvised performances by saxophonist, Joshua Smith; guitarist, Tim Askin; bassist, Dave Blackerby; and keyboardist, Steve Masek. On the album's first three tracks, Smith, an excellent tenor sax player who plays in the local jazz group, Birth, sticks to more traditional playing - drawing on John Coltrane for harmony, and Sonny Rollins for rhythm. On the album's final two selections, the emphasis is on collective improvisation rather than the relationship between the frontline and the accompanist. Although the xylomarimba and hammered dulcimer can be used melodically, here they are employed mainly rhythmically to provide color. The interplay of the ensemble is often intricate and sensitive; and Drumplay, which keeps taking on new members, will continue to improve as it becomes more experimental." Cleveland Scene alternative newsweekly published May 18, 2000 Drumplay discography on Signal Tree: Drumplay - 1997 Live at Nelson Ledges - 1999 Pyramid People - 2000 beachland - 2001 Under the Map of the World Where I Sleep - 2002 Dayshine to Stars-end - 2004