Clear Path Ensemble

**Clear Path Ensemble** is a New Zealand-based electro-acoustic jazz project led by multi-instrumentalist Cory Champion, a Wellington jazz/electronic artist and producer known for his work across genres like jazz, funk, pop, and techno (under the alias Borrowed Cs). The group blends DIY contemporary jazz with electronic production, drawing inspiration from psychedelic and spiritual jazz while incorporating celestial rhythms and experimental textures. Their 2020 self-titled debut album and subsequent releases like *Solar Eclipse* (featuring tracks like *Drumatix* and *Absolvo*) showcase a collaborative approach, often featuring Wellington scene musicians such as Daniel Hayles (keys), Riki Gooch (drums), and Mike Isaacs (clarinet). They gained attention through performances like their 2021 Wellington Jazz Festival headline set, described as a "transformative" mix of live jazz and electronic experimentation.