As drummer Alex Kautz sees it, there are two parts to his musical brain: the Brazilian side, developed while growing up in São Paolo, and the jazz side, which came later, opening his ears to a wide world of musical possibilities. Those two approaches developed separately for Kautz and were initially fueled by different inspirations. Upon moving to New York City in 2007, though, he found a musical community that encouraged both, soon pushing him to new heights.

On Where We Begin, the drummer's debut recording as a bandleader, Kautz has assembled a band that includes saxophonist John Ellis, pianist Helio Alves, bassist Joe Martin, and his frequent collaborator Chico Pinheiro on guitar. Vocalist Magos Herrera-with whom Kautz has worked extensively-serves as co-producer and contributes vocals on two tracks. Together, the ensemble explores the musical common ground between New York's jazz and Brazilian musical communities.