We had the good fortune of connecting with Casen Alesi and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Casen, what inspires you?
Hard to answer; many things inspire me, but mostly discovering new music and music in general. I love learning about musicians from all over the world and how they incorporate their culture into their music. For example, when I listen to music in the car, my playlist goes all over the place. It can go from Mariachi music to Wayne Shorter, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Bob Marley, Sigur Ros, Capital Cities, Moondog, and the list continues.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I have a regular gig schedule.

On Sundays, I play at a local church, and I’m involved in various activities throughout the week. I’ve been involved in multiple local and professional orchestras, big bands, jazz combos, choirs, and mixed ensembles playing eclectic music. I also have weekly practice with the band I’m a part of, Cognate Souls. Our sound borrows heavily from the late 70’s funk sound, and we take inspiration from Parliament Funkadelic to rhythms and sounds found similarly in Afro-Cuban and West African music. In addition, we usually have shows on the weekends and play heavily throughout the southeast.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Definitely a chill spot that’s one of my favorites is Marietta Square. It’s got a bunch of cool local shops with everything from food to jewelry. Right outside the square is a cool Italian deli called Hoboken Cafe. This place outshines a lot of Italian delis you would find in New York. It’s just that good. Another spot I would bring them to is this jazz club called the Velvet Note. It’s a small jazz club in Alpharetta, and it’s had everyone from local professionals and celebrities to guys like Dennis Chambers and Marcus Miller play there.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Firstly I want to thank God for the many blessings he has given me and the many things he has and will teach me.

I want to thank my parents, grandparents, girlfriend, and friends for being there by my side and pushing me to be the best version of myself.

I also want to thank my teachers Tyrone Jackson, John Lawless, Justin Chesarek, Brian Baraszu, John Micheal D’Haviland, David Roth, Taylor Watts, and the many other teachers who pushed me to be the best musician I can be.

Website: https://basketcasen13.wixsite.com/casen-alesi-band-lea

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caseo03/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100014814757597

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