Noriyuki Ken Okada – bass, composer & leader
YOYOKA – drums
Ben Torres – tenor sax
Hristo Vitchev – guitar
Murray Low – piano/keys
Bassist, composer, and arranger Noriyuki Ken Okada has crafted a distinctive jazz fusion sound shaped by Japanese-American jazz, video game music, and modern big band influences. Based in San Jose, CA, he first gained recognition arranging for Keio University’s jazz big band while studying in Tokyo. After moving to the Bay Area in 2002, he performed alongside jazz greats at major festivals like Monterey Jazz Festival and venues including SFJAZZ Center.
In 2022, Okada formed a dynamic new ensemble after jamming with then-13-year-old drumming phenom YOYOKA. Impressed by her mature groove, he recruited Grammy-winning saxophonist Ben Torres and guitarist Hristo Vitchev for their debut album Square One. The group’s 2024 follow-up Young and Brave featured four-time Grammy-nominated pianist Murray Low, showcasing their evolving fusion style through sold-out shows at San Jose Jazz Break Room and Alvas Showroom.
Born in Japan, YOYOKA began drumming as a toddler and gained global attention at age eight after winning the Hit Like a Girl competition. Her viral Led Zeppelin cover earned praise from Robert Plant, while features on The Ellen DeGeneres Show and collaborations with artists like Fall Out Boy expanded her reach. By 12, her original single Sparkling topped international charts, and her 2024 debut album For Teen featured legends like Narada Michael Walden. Now based in Los Angeles, YOYOKA continues redefining modern drumming through her technical brilliance and creative energy. Together with Okada’s ensemble, she represents jazz fusion’s exciting future – where virtuosity meets innovation.