For more then 30 years, Ralph Peterson has been one of the distinctive and recognizable drummers in jazz. Besides his incomparable talent behind the drum kit, which has led to collaborations with the likes of Terence Blanchard, Branford Marsalis, David Murray, Roy Hargrove, Michael Brecker, Regina Belle, Betty Carter and The Roots over a nearly thirty-year career – not to mention being hand-picked by Art Blakey as the second drummer in the legendary bandleader’s Jazz Messenger Big Band until Blakey’s 1990 death.A great sequel is a rarity worth waiting for. Drummer/composer Ralph Peterson returns to the trio format for only the third time in 30 years on TriAngular III, due out April 8 via Peterson's own Onyx Music label and Truth Revolution Records and. This time out he's joined by brothers Zaccai and Luques Curtis on piano and bass, adding a new incarnation to the prestigious TriAngular lineage.Recorded live at New Haven's Firehouse 12, TriAngular III provides not only a showcase for Peterson's boundless energy and imagination, but also a testament to the healing power of music. The album was recorded, mixed and mastered as Peterson was being diagnosed and treated for colorectal cancer, becoming a sterling symbol of his successful battle against the disease. Mr. Peterson also remains in high demand as an educator does workshops and clinics with the support of his endorsers Mapex Drums, Meinl Cymbals, Evans Drumheads and Vic Firth Stick and Brushes.Ralph Peterson is now at the intersection where his influence on modern jazz is undeniable and constant. He has been on more then 150 other CD’s as a sideman with other artists. He is at the apex of his power as a drummer, bandleader, teacher and mentor. His list of students constitute a who’s who of today’s amazing up and coming drummers like Ari Honig, E.J Strickland, Tyshawn Sorey, Mark Whitfield Jr., and Justin Faulkner.Off the bandstand, Mr. Peterson has also conquered many challenges in his life. He gives back to young people in his work as Full Professor of Percussion at Berklee College of Music. He holds a Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do and has recently been promoted to 4th Degree Black Belt, which is Master Instructor level.