Big Fun March 2010 Issue by David Johnson

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

INSIDE MARCH, 2010

EMAIL: info@bigfunmagazine.com - 253-473-1866

THE MIX 4

Variety Entertainment

FESTIVAL SHOWCASE Gray Sky Blues Music Festival - Tacoma, WA

OPEN FORUM 11 Regional music pros give advice on how to make money as a performer.

BLUES PROFILE 12 Seattle’s Annie Eastwood

DINING 7

Tacoma’s Stonegate 12 Restaurant & Showcase Club

JEWELRY & DESIGN Agate Designs Seattle, WA FINE ART

Lisa Sweet shows at Tacoma’s Kittredge Gallery

ROCK PROFILE Maple Valley’s Lynn Sorensen

JAZZ PROFILE 13 Seattle’s Marc Smason MUSIC & TECH 14 Three things to consider for your next recording project. By Olympia studio owner Richard Nichols.

THE BIZ 10 Liz Aday, Emmanuel del Casal and Brooks Giles talk about making it in the music business.

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE

PUBLISHER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF DAVID JOHNSON Accounting / Editorial Traffic: Rose Murphy Proofreaders: Ce’Lene Sakellis, Larry Warfield Photography: Sean Cummings, Walter Atkins, Richard Baker Advertising Sales: info@bigfunmagazine.com 253-473-1866 David Johnson and Gary Grape

EMAIL: info@bigfunmagazine.com 253-473-1866 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE is published 12 times a year. The views expressed in BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE are those of their respective contributors and are not necessarily those of its publisher, editors, or staff. All images in advertisements and advertorials/special promotions are supplied by the advertiser. Advertiser guarantee they have the legal right to publish all images supplied to BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT,ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE. Copyright 2010 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE.

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

THE MIX Variety Entertainment COMEDY

CLASSICAL Northwest Sinfonietta Bach to the Future March 26 Benaroya Seattle, WA March 27 Rialto Tacoma, WA

POP / ROCK

ROCK Cheap Trick March 28 Emerald Queen Tacoma, WA

FOLK / ROCK Indigo Girls March 19 Pantages Theater Tacoma, WA

R&B Keith Sweat March 27 Emerald Queen Tacoma, WA

Chelsea Handler March 20 The Paramount Theatre Seattle, WA Martin Lawrence March 12 The Paramount Theatre Seattle, WA

MIXED BAG John Mayer March 31 - KeyArena Seattle, WA

POP

Stickshift Annie Kimball Conant March 19 The Harmon Tacoma, WA

BLUES

Carlos Mencia March 12 – 13 Emerald Queen Tacoma, WA

Cody Rentas Band Every Wed. - Jam Johnny’s Bar & Grill Federal Way, WA

Jeff Garlin March 18 Parlor Live Bellevue, WA

Billy Shew Every Thurs - Jam Dawson’s Tacoma, WA

Star Machine Every Thurs P.J.Pockets Casino Federal Way, WA

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

THE MIX Variety Entertainment JAZZ Mike Vax Rich Wetzel’s

Spyro Grya March 11 – 14 Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley Seattle, WA

Groovin’ Higher Orch

March 7 The Stonegate. Tacoma, WA

Leah Natale & Milo Peterson March 13 Local Color Seattle, WA

Thomas Marriott March 26 Tula’s Restaurant Seattle, WA

John Scofield March 9-10 Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley Seattle , WA

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

Terence Blanchard April 16 Schneebeck Concert Hall Tacoma, WA

CONTACT BIG FUN info@bigfunmagazine.com - 253-473-1866

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

JEWELRY & DESIGN

Need that special gift? You’ll find it at

Agate Designs Pioneer Square - Seattle, WA Photos by Walter Atkins here are so many choices when it comes to shopping for gifts that it can become bewildering. Your Choices can involve everything from the latest space-age tech toys to the perfect mattress. Many times if you’re looking for something truly unique, something one-of-akind, much of what’s available just doesn’t deliver that “something special” bang.

Enter Agate Designs in Seattle’s Pioneer Square.

founded in 1982 by Jim Kullberg after he had gained success cutting and selling agate bookends to Fredrick & Nelson. Jim’s son Mark later joined the business, and he was followed in 1983 by Terry Derosier, Jim’s son-in-law. From the very beginning the team realized a nice profit and has never been in debt or had to take out a loan. Bookends made of chalcedony quartz that comes in rough agate-form from Brazil are the signature pieces at Agate Designs. After slicing the bookends with diamo nd saws, a butterfly cut forms resulting in bookends that are nearly the exact same size. Even the r emnants o f the cuttings are put to good use. The unused pieces are tumbled for six weeks and can be purchased as smooth, separate stones. Besides bookends and polished rocks, shoppers can find a variety of oneof-a-kind works of art fashioned out of the Earth’s natural resources, from a $950 necklace made of sapphires and rubies to an amethyst geode costing over $10,000. In addition, ancient fossils, like a cave bear scull from Romania and a trilobite from the Devonian Period, are also for sale. Derosier and Kullberg are not hard-sell proprietors, so you won’t be pressured into buying anything. Whether you just come to look around, you are a rock hound looking for an unusual find for your collection, or you are a touris t intereste d in a unique piece of jewelry to remind you of your Pacific Northwest t rip, Agate Designs has something for you.

Located at the corner of First Avenue South and South Washington Street, the company was 10

Agate Designs 120 First Ave. S., Seattle, WA, 206-621-3063 Hours: Monday – Saturday 10am – 6pm, Sunday – 11am – 4pm

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

FINE ART

Contemporary Icons By Painter Lisa Sweet at Kittredge Gallery March 1–April 10, 2010

isa Sweet borrows symbols and imagery from medieval and early Christian art to create 21st-century icons that explore contemporary concerns and beliefs about faith and myth, ritual and tradition. Her deep, jewel-like colors and painting techniques also have Gothic roots, notably in art of the Netherlands from the 13th and 14th centuries. Sweet’s paintings and prints are intimately scaled and richly detailed like the icons and altarpieces they echo, inviting careful, even meditative study. Her works offer subtly different and unexpected interpretations of traditional images.

Sweet is a professor at The Evergreen State College , where she teaches drawing, printmaking, painting, and medieval and Renaissance art appreciation. Her work is exhibited nationally and can be found in a number of museum and private collections. Kittredge Gallery serves as a teaching tool for the University of Puget Sound’s art department and a cultural resource for both the university and the community at large, exhibiting work by noted regional and national artists. Exhibits and talks are free and open to the public.

Above: hortus conclusus, 2008 Oil on panel, 11 ½ x 9 ¼ inches, Private collection Right: patroness of launderers, 2010 Oil on panel, 18 1/2 x 10 3/8 inches, Courtesy of the artist 12

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

DINING

STONEGATE Pizza, Music, Art and Much More

t’s always a good thing when another live music venue swings into action, because we music lovers are finding it harder and harder to locate the perfect spot that offers th e brand of entertainment we identify with. Enter Stonegate on Tacoma’s South Tacoma Way. Here you’ll find a good mix of entertainment and comfort food that’s sure please a wide variety of day walkers and night crawlers. By day, Stonegate operates as a full service restaurant offering a menu that ranges from some of Tacoma’s best designer pizzas to really good Italian cuisine. At night, Stonegate becomes the live music showcase club that South Tacoma has needed for quite some time. Stonegate books the kind of rock, blues, jazz and R&B bands that people want to hear. They don’t do anything too soft or too hard. Most of the bands are playing material that is accessible and familiar to the average listener. Even the harder-edged bands have that extra entertainment appeal that makes the hard edges fun. Very few m usic venues are

the areas best bands and excellent late night munchies. We have the balanced mix of food, entertainment and atmosphere that Tacoma has been asking for. Call made sure to create a unique space full of eye-catching artwork. There is plenty to see while waiting for your food and drinks to come. He did almost all of the construction work himself, and he’s planning for more updates like an outdoor balcony that will show up just in time for warm summer nights. The restaurant/club is filled with unique paintings on the walls, floors and bars. They even painted the upright piano. For rum lovers, I recommend sampling one of Stonegate’s many custom rum cocktails from their “Rum Bar,” which showcases Call’s own cityscape metal sculpture. It’s like nothing else in Tacoma. You will have to see it to know what I’m talking about. The seating comfortable and allows for ample room between tables. There’s room for large private parties in the upstairs lounge or you can cozy up to a table for two. And the m e n ’ s restroom

NO BONES VEGGIE brave enough zucchini, red and yellow bell peppers, is one of the to offer a music cleane st in parmesan, mushrooms with red sauce mix that includes Tacoma . It rock and jazz in the actually looks and same week. Owner Jeff smells good. Call says “I’m proud of being from Tacoma. I like this city and I want to give All in all, Stonegate is a nice addition to something back to the people who make this a Tacoma’s dining and entertainment scene. The great place to live. And I really want people to think food is excellent and the service is fast. The drinks of Stonegate as one of the best restaurants in are strong and the entertainment is top notch. Plus, Tacoma. That’s why our menu includes high-quality there’s no cover charge. Check it out for yourself. Italian food, good sandwiches and burgers, oneof-a-kind pizzas and everything in between. A family can come here for lunch or dinner and find Stonegate is located at 5421 South Tacoma Way, what they are looking for. And at night, people can Tacoma, WA 98409. Call them at 253-473-2255. party in a clean, safe environment with some of Website: www.stonegaterocks.com

CATCH A TIGER PRAWN BY THE TAIL tiger prawns, artichoke hearts, basil, red and green onions with a lemon garlic cream sauce

G-SPOT Bacardi Razz, splash Chambord, triple sec, sweet n sour, cranberry and 7-up

Painting on the stairway wall

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

FESTIVALS

GRAY SKY

Blues Music Festival

he Tacoma Events Commission and the South Sound Blues Association members created the Gray Sky Blues Music Festival as a fun way to welcome spring and the brighter days ahead. The third annual event will be held on Saturday, April 10, 2010 in downtown Tacoma. The best way to start shaking off those gray sky blues is to find a good spot along Pacific Avenue between 10th and 21st Streets before 10:30AM and enjoy the annual Grand Floral Daffodil Parade. The floats can be previewed between South 7th and 10th on Pacific Avenue before the parade starts.

Tennessee. The after party begins at 8:00 PM.

After the parade (around noon) the thing to do is head for one of the ten or so Gray Sky Blues Music Festival venues for lunch, a favorite beverage, and some great music! Sample the great food and beverages available or do some shopping at the participating retail stores downtown. The event’s live music venues include The Harmon Brewery, The Swiss Pub, Cu tt er ’ s Poi nt Co ff ee , I nd och in e A si an Restaurant and others.

GRAY SKY BLUES MUSIC FESTIVAL APRIL 10, 2010 SCHEDULE The Swiss Pub 1904 S Jefferson 253-572-2821 1:00 - 2:00 PM - The Blues Mongols 2:30 - 3:30 PM - The Chester Dennis Jones Band 4:00 - 5:30 PM - The Randy Oxford Band 6:00 - 7:30 PM - Sean Carney Internationally Renowned Bluesman Sean Carney

After the fes tival th e music continue s at Stonegate in South Tacoma. Live music will be provided by Blues Redemption, who represented the South Sound Blues Association at the 2010 International Blues Challenge in Memphis,

The Harmon Brewery 1938 Pacific Ave./ 253383-2739 NOON - 1:00 PM - The Wired Band 1:15 - 2:15 PM - Micah Kesselring (Columbus, Ohio) with Jumpin’ Josh

Over fifteen Northwes t acts will entertain throughout the day at ten or more downtown venues. The headliner for the festival this year is Sean Carney from Columbus, Ohio. Sean won the International Blues Challenge in Memphis, Tennessee in 2007, and is recognized as one of the top blues artists in the world. Sean is coming off a world tour, and this is his first performance in the Pacific Northwest. Sean Carney will perform at The Swiss Pub at 6:00 p.m.

Sean Carney 2:30 – 3:30 PM - The Stacy Jones Band 3:45 – 5:00 PM - Blues Redemption urban X change 1934 Pacific Ave 253-572-2280 - ACTS TBA Cutter’s Point Coffee 1936 Pacific Ave./ 253272-7101 12:30 – 2:30 PM - JD Hobson (Blues Soloist)

Randy Oxford The Indochine Asian Restaurant 1924 Pacific Ave./ 272-8200 1:00 – 3:00 PM - Maia Santell and House Blend Stonegate presents the “After-Festival Party” (5419 South Tacoma Way, 253-606-2255) 8:00 PM – Midnight - Blues Redemption

More venues are being added each week! Updates will be posted on the website. For more information contact Gary W. Grape at 253-230-6851 or 253-326-4444 Email: gwgrape47@comcast.net Visit: www.tacomaevents.com / www.southsoundblues.com 14

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

THE BIZ Making it in today’s music biz is nothing to play with. Here’s some help, so listen up. Liz Aday Have a professional press kit and at least a bas ic My Sp ac e pa ge w ith c le ar pi ct ur es a nd co mpet iti ve audi o. These days, a decent digital video isn’t that hard to produce if you have some pretty basic tools or know someone who does. It’s an instant gratification world today. Most buyers like to click on video, mp3s and look at photos 1st. Be proud of what you put out there! First impressions are important. That can really help you get a good foot in the door.

becoming band leaders and ultimately evolve into becoming booking agents. I understand that there are many musicians that would rather not take on the bigger responsibility as a bandleader, and some players may hold a negative image of agents. But at the very least, all musicians should gain the knowledge of a bandleader and agent. It’s the business. That knowledge will go a long way in raising the bar for all of us if we all understand the business of booking gigs. To become an effective bandleader you must operate as a small business owner. And what a small business owner is a whole other topic in itself. But, that’s the key.

Be versatile. I am sure many would argue and say it’s better to focus on one genre or shtick and you’ll prosper. I suppose that’s true for some but I’ve always enjoyed learning and performing a wide range of genres for various occasions and I’ve gotten some pretty cool calls because of it.

Brooks Giles III Be as productive as possible, taking your music to the people th ro ug h li ve performances, CD’s, DV D’ s a nd t he Internet, etc….

Diversify. I am sure we’re all tired of hearing about the economy. Let’s just say... in lean times... it’s good to have other skills you can turn to. So far, I’ve managed to stick to ‘the biz’: graphics, digital video, voice-overs, and other multi-media. Work hard & stay focused. I sift through Craigslist and other classifieds a lot. Don’t be discouraged by negativity and dead end posts. There are some real jobs in there. Be cautious though. Emmanuel del Casal Be co me a ba nd leader and/or booking ag en t. A nd as a le ad er/ ag ent y ou must learn to operate as a small business ow ne r. Mo st mu si cia ns do n ot operate as business owners. Most are sidemen, which does not entail booking the gig at the source: with the client. In order to work, sidemen clamor to get calls from various bandleaders to get their gigs. Bandleaders must be proactive in booking gigs for special events. That means they must find a way to be in touch with the folks (the clients) that need their services, or be i n t ou ch wi th cat er ers , wed di ng coordinators and special event planners, who are directly hired by clients. Referrals for bookings can come from fellow vendors such as photographers, event decor rentals, limo service, valets, and anyone else in the special events industry. And by the way, this isn’t really the music biz. We’re talking about casuals gigs here. This is the special events industry. Musicians should evolve into 16

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

Also, I would suggest being flexible with your repertoire. We as musicians hear and appreciate music on a level that differs from that of non-musicians. It’s important for us, as musicians, to meet and connect with our audiences where they are presently, in order to even tually take t hem to the ar tistic, emotional and spiritual places we aspire to on a daily basis. The goal is to bring as many new listeners to Jazz Music and other great musical traditions as possible while challenging ourselves and the audiences. Therefore, we must constantly educate our audiences on how to listen as we explore various musical avenues. We are on the bandstand in service to the music and to the audience. The audience is there to be entertained no matter what. If they leave a performance with joy in their hearts, humming melodies and still tapping their feet from the groove, they’ll be back to hear us again and will hopefully bring new listeners along with them the next time. As musicians we always deal with difficult economic times. That, coupled with the desire to perform in public, means we should remem ber that any dece nt contra ct is negotiable. If a contract is non-negotiable or doesn’t meet with our financial expectations, we have to be able to walk away from that negative energy and on to the next potential performance opportunity. What we do business-wise for ourselves and our musical projects affects other musicians and their projects as well. Let’s work together as part of a world-wide musical community toward the betterment of all.

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

OPEN FORUM If you plan to make any money as a performing artist, here are some things you really need to consider. Advice From Real Players Osama Afifi Be o n t ime . Not hi ng annoys a bandleader more than being late or showing up five minutes before show time. The ca lls will st op i f th at becomes a habit. Oghale Agbro “I think that branding yo ur sel f is ve ry important. You need to find your group of loyal fans that will follow your career. Being the Coca Cola of your genre can keep your career alive for a long time. Consider Abbey Lincoln and Sade just to name a couple” Dina Blade Think ahead. Do your homework. Strategize. Ne tw or k. Se t go al s. Keep accurate financial re co rds s o you c an easily see your progress. Anything is possible if you believe in yourself and are willing to go for what you want. Tom “T-Boy Neal” Boyle One must write and re co rd re le va nt original material in the genres that speak to the artist. If the artist doesn’t believe it, no one else will either. Th en , m ake t he recordings available thru CD’s and online downloads. Finding a “connected” record label that is able to distribute and promote the artist’s music to the target audience... worldwide... is very important. Then tour, tour, tour in support of the music. Tracey D. Hooker De ve lo p yo ur “entertainment” value to your audience. We as pe rf orm ers a re competing with a giant mu sic m edi a. T he mu lt itu de o f m us ic vi deo s and ge nr es (which I must admit have sold me on some country tunes) is pervasive in our society. The quality of your musical product may sadly be secondary to the presentation. I have heard the statement, “people hear with their eyes”; my experience says this is true. Creating a great song list and finding your own unique way of selling it to your fans is a key element. Then there is the other factor we musicians have trouble with....marketing. The internet can help. Good Luck! 18

Kareem Kandi If you plan to make any money as a performing artist in today’s music industry, the one thing yo u mus t d o is st ay positive. There are tons of challenges presented to musicians while trying to make a decent living. Not everyone is going to like what you do or want to hire you. You have to keep a positive attitude and keep going after what you want. Opportunities always arise. Steve Kim You must be absolutely and positively certain that you are first and foremost a musician, and as such, you must gr at ef ull y liv e wi th whatever you are able to earn, knowing you are blessed to live a life that most are only able to dream about . If making money in music is your primary goal, you are missing the point and wasting your time. If you make music, you will make money. Thomas Marriott Entertain your audience, both by your proficiency and mastery of music an d als o by yo ur pr es en ta tio n of t he music. Most folks who spend money to hear live music just want to have a good time and leave feeling a little bit better. They don’t want to be confused and bored. And you don’t have to “dumb down” your music either. Just play it like you mean it and act professionally. Enjoy the music you are playing. Be enthusiastic, even if it isn’t your gig or music that you particularly like. Tim McGovern The one thing you must do is SHOW UP! Darren Motamedy There’s not one thing to do. There are many. Be in cre dib ly ver sat ile . Purchase a high quality PA system and know how to use it. Perform at the top of your ability at all times. Promote your band. Design and maintain a high quality web site with sound files and appealing pictures. Ge t t he st ron ge st musicians to work with you. Have a day job to allow you to finance your craft. Find the top booking agents and corporate event planners and collaborate with them. Pray. BIG FUN is here to help you reach your audience. Email us: info@bigfunmagazine.com.

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

Lee Rentas Self promote. It is very important to advertise yourself. We live in an electronic age where you must take advantage of the World Wide Web. Us e My sp ac e, Facebook, and other websites. Get the word out about your music. Most important, get out and perform. There are a lot of venues that allow you to showcase your talent. Get out and be heard because you never know who is listening. Maia Santell If you r p rio rity as a mu sic ian is to ma ke money, I encourage you to stop selling yourself short. Don’t book your seven piece band in a club that has a budget fo r a tri o. You should downsize when you play at that venue. Promote like hell, be willing to travel, give lessons, sell CD’s (everywhere) and always cater to your audience. If, however, you’re new to the business or just trying to stay afloat, here’s my favorite Italian saying: ”If you throw enough pasta on the wall, sooner or later it starts to stick”! Alma Villegas “P ro mot e, p rom ot e, promote. Place yourself out there with pride and joy. Performing is rarely about the money; but as producers o f this art form, we must never sell ourselves short. While it’s important to remain competitive, we must always honor our talent and experience. The creation and delivery of all music should always be appre ciated and value d. Bot h by the performers and their guests” Randy Wallace Be professional in all you do and say. Keep client sa ti sf ac tio n at t he forefront. Rich Wetzel Re al ize w he re yo ur strengths and niche or niches are and target all your playing, marketing and soul to that thing you feel passionate about. Realize this is both art and a busi ness. You have to excel at both to make any money at this, and still enjoy it too. Be an artist and play music you are passionate about. Be a showman and don’t just play the notes, put on a show, and be a business and marketing genius. That is what it takes to make it.

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

BLUES / MIXED BAG

Annie Eastwood Voice, Percussion - Seattle, WA “My life without music would be emotionally vacant.” Annie, you are much more than a blues si ng er. W hat o the r st yle s are y ou comfortable with? For me, it is about the song, the lyrics, the groove and the changes, so I perform everything from blues, jazz, swing, Latin, and rock and roll to country. Do you get to work in these other styles very often? Which ones? Every week I get a chance to perform an eclectic mix. Have you been able to perform with any nationally respected musicians? I have opened up for blues performers Linda Hornbuckle, Lady Bianca, Smokin’ Joe Kubek, Bnois King, Tommy Castro from the Bay area and the great slide guitarist Sonny Landreth. Tell us about your best experience while performing. The best experience is making that connection each night with someone in the audience. Do you still practice regularly? I get a chance to rehearse or perform five to seven nights each week.

What good things have been happening for you during the last several months? We have a lot of great gigs booked in 2010 including performances at Port Ludlow’s Music on the Green on Sunday, July 25, 2010 and The Case of the Blues and All That Jazz on Saturday August 21, 2010 in Yakima. Do you ever see yourself retiring from live performance? I don’t see a day without some level of music and performance if I can keep my health. What is your academic background? I studied visual arts; printmaking and sculpture.

I chose to be a singer because I am passionate about being inside the music with other performers. It just feels right. What is your most valuable attribute? I am as young at heart as a teenager and as responsible as an adult. It’s a good combination for a performing musician. Every pro musician has experienced a “Gig

from Hell”. Describe yours. Life is too short. I can’t remember any really awful gigs. What else do you do to keep the home fires burning? I keep my hand in visual and graphic arts and design to keep the fire stoked. What attracted you to the love of your life? Music? My husband of 28 years and I share a love of music and performing and a need for humor and honesty. What does success mean to you? Success is the constant journey of improvement. And just maybe, somebody else will share the journey or care. For my complete performance schedule go to my Website: www.stickshiftannie.com.

is getting ready to go to Germany and is busier than ever. STATE OF THE BIZ The major record labels spent too much time trying to persecute the kids for free downloading. As a result they have alienated an entire generation away from financially supporting the musical arts. Licensing has become the only viable way to earn money for recorded works. CD sales are becoming extinct. Delivery of digital media is starting to earn more than the media itself. There isn’t a musical work out t hat yo u cann ot dow nload for free….legally. It’s dangerous…it’s exciting. It’s a brave new world for the arts.

ROCK

Lynn Sorensen Bass, Guitar, Keys, Strings & Vocals Maple Valley, WA PERFORMANCE CAREER Other than Bad Co., I am doing assorted dates with my original project, Sex And Violins. I front that act and play electric violin. I’ve been playing violin since I was 9 and I still love classical music. In Sex And Violins, however, I try to make the fiddle sound like a band saw through metal. I am also doing dates with Spike And The Impalers, Magic Bus, The Fabulous Johnsons and Powercell. They are all local Shows. 20

RECORDING CAREER I have a self titled album Sex And Violins. I’m on Spike And The Impalers’ new record. And I’m currently producing and recording upcoming projects with Showcase Management. CIRCLE OF FRIENDS My longtime band-mate Steve Hanna has his hands full raising two girls. Lloyd Debarr has a new son. Jeff Kathan, when not drumming, is making the world a cleaner place with his company Universal Carpet Cleaning. Howard Leese has released his solo album Secret Weapon. Roger Fisher turned 60 and is working on his solo record. Randy Hansen

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

PERSONAL LIFE I’m just a country boy livin’ in my log home in Hobart. FAMILY LIFE My oldest Daughter Ashley just turned 21…she made it! My youngest daughter Alex is 14 and very active in dance. PERSONAL GROWTH I used to be a couple of clicks over six feet tall; now I’m a couple of clicks under. I think I’m shrinking! lynn@lynnsorensen.com www.lynnsorensen.com www.sexandviolins.com

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

BLUES Rafael Tranquilino Randy Oxford Band

There are usually four main elements that come together to make a hot blues band. Of course there are the vocals, the bass and the drums, but the average blues band just wouldn’t be able to deliver that in-your-face, burning urgency without a guitarist who’s really laying it down. When you’re ready to hear some great blues, and dance your butt off, use this guitarist showcase as your guide to the areas hottest blues bands. See you at the show.

Rafael Tranquilino, of the Randy Oxford Band, is one of the hottest young guitar-slingers in the region. His style is spirited and energetic, a skillful blend of Blues with Jazz, Rock, Funk, and Latin. He has a smooth, soulful voice and a knack for writing songs that speak to the heart, whether the words are in English or Spanish. Rafael has several side projects, including an up-coming CD and his own band, Jesse the Wolf.

Mike Wright Guitarist Mike Wright began performing as a young man when he was in the Air Force, and he continued playing professionally until he was thirty-one years old. He took a hiatus to raise a family, and after twenty four years he came back in full swing, rediscovering his love for an old friend, his guitar. He carefully reworked his 1970 Les Paul Custom “tuxedo”, revitalizing this fine instrument that he plays today. Mike says he is grateful to the South Sound Blues Association and the other blues organizations for keeping the blues alive, and for welcoming and encouraging musicians to participate in this great art form, called “the blues.”

Tom “T-Boy Neal” Boyle

Kimball Conant

Becki Sue & her Big Rockin’ Daddies!

Kimball Conant & the Fugitives

Known for his signature stingin’ Texas and Chicago blues style, Tom “T-Boy Neal” Boyle is a 5-time winner (‘03, ’05, ’06, 0’7, ’09) of the WA Blues Society’s “Best Electric Guitar” BB Award. He is a founding member of one of the Pacific Northwest’s hottest blues acts, Becki Sue & her Big Rockin’ Daddies!

Credits: Bumbershoot, 2005 Fisherman’s Restaurant last 3 summers, Seattle Sunbanks Blues Festival 2006 & 07 Mukilteo Lighthouse Festival 2006, 07, 08 New Orleans Creole Restaurant, Seattle Interbay Golf Course “Jazz on the Green” 2007, 08, 09 Everett Waterfront Festival 2007, 08, 09 EMP Seattle Center, 2006

www.bigrockindaddies.com - www.myspace.com/tboyneal tboyneal@comcast.net - Cell: 360-790-6105 - Fax: 360-357-5454

Styles: Jazz, Blues, R & B Standards, Samba, Rhumba, Salsa, Tex-Mex, Polka, Cumbia, Rockabilly, Country and Western, Western Swing, Folk, 50s/60s/70s Rock ‘n Roll Hits.

Booking: www.kimballconant.com www.stickshiftannie.com 206-661-7177

Billy Shew

Preston Miller

Billy Shew Band

Michal Miller Band

Billy has played in many diverse bands, which include Blues, Jazz, Rock and Concert Bands. He has performed in various clubs and festivals throughout the Midwest and West Coast including Big Reds in Amarillo Texas, Hwy 99 club in Seattle, Dawson’s in Tacoma, Jazz Bones Tacoma, Halftime Saloon in Gig Harbor, The Firecreek in Kent, The Bite of Seattle and the Taste of Tacoma just to name a few. Contact info: www.billyshewband.com, myspace.com/ billyshewband and email: admin@billyshewband.com.

I was born in Alabama but I never called that home. A big Influence when I was a kid were Yazoo Records of old Blues 78’s with that nice scratchy sound KA-CHUNCK they’re all on Cd’s now. Michal Miller Band has been sent twice to the IBC in Memphis. With luck a little juice and a lot of pain maybe we can go again. The Blues Rollon...

Al Alto Maia Santell and House Blend Intense and edgy, and sometimes over the top. Al Alto’s guitar playing is finger pickin’ wild, with a tone and style that give him ranges of expression that few others come close to. He owes his claim to fame “redneck jazz” finger-style to guitarist Danny Gatton. Like many musicians he was a fan of BB King and Jimi Hendrix, and studied Hendrix’s unique style, rooted in blues. Like Hendrix, Alto is a multistylist, often playing four or five styles in one - jazz, blues, rock, funk and country. To check out Al with Maia and the rest of the band see: www.MaiaSantell.com 22

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

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BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

NW JAZZ PROFILE

Marc Smason Trombonist / Vocalist - Seattle, WA BACKGROUND I’ve been singing and playing trombone for about 50 years. My mom’s father was a violinist/vaudeville conductor in Chicago and we had a strong bond. My family moved from Dallas to Seattle in 1961. On route, we saw Robert Preston on Broadway in The Music Man and the song “76 Trombones” was great. And the memory of magic vibrations from the trombones in the Seattle Symphony was also inspiring. I took up trombone at 11 years old. Later, I enjoyed performing in the Seattle Youth Symphony Orchestra under the inspirational directorship of Vilem Sokol.

the salsa band I played with opened for Willie Colon and Celia Cruz! We performed in a giant hall filled with ecstatic dancers of all persuasions grooving to the finest dance music on this planet or any other. Later on, in the Northwest, I had the pleasure of work ing wit h, amon g other s, the Funk Brothers, Baby Gramps, Buell Neidlinger, Julian Priester, Andy Statman, Perry Robinson, Jay Thomas, Jeff Johnson and the Ivar’s Clams.

DeRoos: the N.W. Choro Collective plays the infectious Brazillian music of the early 20th century and The Free World plays original, free, music.

THE BIZ Creative music and art is inherently political because it says there’s something more important than money. Few make a living with performance and the entertainment industry promotes commercial stuff that usually doesn’t challenge the listener or speak to the realities of life. I usually include social critique in performance.

ADVICE My advice to players is, practice, listen to great music and play with the best and learn. Be nice to people, yourself & other things. Make your mistakes and get beyond them. Don’t limit yourself. It’s unlikely we will be able to rely on art financially but don’t give up your self-expression, it makes life better!

In the Bay Area, I played with the likes of Carlos Sant ana, B ig Joe Turner, Hadle y Cali man, Eddie Henderson, Joe Bonner, Benny Green, Sonny Simmons, and many others.

NOW Sing er, Jo anne K lein & I wor k with the contemporary jazz group, Better World. The Chicago 7 plays jazz of the 1920s and 1930s. La Banda Gozona is an exciting Oaxacan (Mexican) band! And there’s a “guerilla band” of horns & percussion called the Yellow Hat Band.

Morton Subotnick alluded to the metaphor of the turkey farm. Turkeys can jump to a height of 5 feet but aren’t aware of it, so the farmer erects a fence 4 feet high, saving funds, and the birds stay put. The symphony or pop musician could leap over his set role in music but doesn’t know it.

I remember a fabulous night in San Francisco when

I’m in two groups with my pal, clarinetist, Rosalynn

After graduation from Cal Arts near Los Angeles, I lived in the Bay Area for seven years and returned to the Northwest in 1982. While in school I was fortunate to study West African drumming, dancing & singing and Javanese gamelan music and singing. I had to learn to relax to do the intricate interlocking rhythms and have been able to apply that to all music.

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BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

For Marc’s performance schedule, go to www.marcsmason.com

MUSIC & TECH

Three Things To Consider For Your Next Recoding Project By Richard Nichols Circle of Sound, Olympia, WA he first thing to keep in mind is to start off doing the best you can during the recording process. Bad basic tracks equate to bad mixes. Don’t get caught up in the old cliché “We’ll fix it in the mix”. There’s too much to forget by the time you start mixing unless someone is keeping extensive notes. And that brings us to

If you put the time and effort not to mention money into making an album, then why not have it sound its best before introducing it to the rest of the world. Mastering is the polish that brings out the detail and warmth, helps the individual sounds to sit better in the mix, and gives track to track cohesion with EQ, spacing, and sound levels.

another point. Document the project. It’s much easier during the mastering session if the editing decisions have already been considered and documented.

Albums that have been mastered will equate well (sound good) in most all listening environments. It also lends another set of ears to the project. Remember those less than stellar monitors and rooms used during recording and mixing? Now you’ll have the opportunity to hear what the mix really sounds like. So the last point for now is, have the engineer make a mix with the voice up a dB or two. Then you’ll have a voice up and a less compressed copy for the mastering session. Good luck on your next project.

There’s more to a project then just how loud it can be. Mixes sound better and are less fatiguing to listen to if they have space (dynamics) left in them. Don’t overdue it in the mix though because there needs to be enough headroom for the mastering. A final mix of -3dB for peaks will allow enough headroom for the mastering process. If you have to have a radio level mix (prior to mastering), then have the engineer do more then one mix. Because a lot of the monitors and spaces used for recording and mixing aren’t as acoustically accurate as they could be, mastering is an essential part of the equation.

Richard is the owner of Circle of Sound in Olympia, WA where he provides Mastering, Digital Recording, CD Duplication, and Graphic Design. BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

SPECIAL PROMOTION

Sponsored By

Local Color Specializing In Vocal Jazz 1606 Pike Place, Seattle, WA, 206-728-1717 -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Egan’s Ballard Jam House The Best In Live Music 1707 Market St., Ballard, WA, 206-789-1621

Your next party or event will be a hit when you hire one of the BEST SINGERS available. Here is a small sampling of the best professional singers who will deliver what you need.

OGHALE AGBRO

KIM ARCHER

A Roosevelt Vocal Jazz Ensemble Alumni trained by the esteemed Scott Brown. The recipient of the Bud Shank jazz workshop scholarship 2 times in a row. I’ve had the privilege to learn from and work with such artist as Greta Matassa and Edmonia Jarrett. Performed on stages like the Rialto Theater in Atlanta, GA and at Tula’s Seattle WA, My voice has been described as “Sultry and Original” and “Captivating and Abstract”

If ever there was a perfect match of natural vocal talent and commanding stage presence, it is found in Kim Archer. The soulful, natural tones that flow through her voice engage listeners, and her smooth, passionate delivery evokes an energy that brings people to their feet! Since her first live performances in Washington in 2004 with her band, she has brought her soul, funk, jazz, blues, classic rock and R&B influences to thousands of listeners.

Contact: 206-351-3180, www.oghaleagbro.com, oghalea@gmail.com

Contact: 253-298-5961, kim@kimarcherband.com, www.kimarcherband.com, www.myspace.com/kimarcherband, www.facebook.com/kimarcherband, www.twitter.com/kimarcherband

VIRGINIA ASHBY

CEE CEE JAMES

“The Voice of the South Sound” –Douglas Barnett (International touring artist/Composer) Her fortes span Pop, Soul, Blues, and Jazz. She is a dynamic performer and a favorite for private parties and corporate events. A few of her performances of note include: Olympic Stadium Beijing 2008, performed with blues legend, Curtis Salgado, first choice for studio vocals, sang Billboard #3 Hip Hop Single with Legacy and Too Short. She is renowned for her versatility and performs 6 shows weekly including Muckleshoot Casino. And she also writes and records original music for National and European distribution.

Constant comparison to Janis Joplin puts this “R&B Independent Artist of the Year” award winner in the same company with the best-of-thebest blues belters. Cee Cee James, aptly dubbed “The Vocal Volcano” by Robert Horn of the WA Blues Society, is a must for the music lover that likes it low down, raw and real. “…The real deal! Her performance is electrifying!” - Rita Ashley, Examiner.com/Seattle. Cee Cee is available worldwide. CeeCeeJames.com / FWGRecords@hotmail.com, 360-632-9901

Contact: virginia@virginiaashby.com, deanconnections@aol.com

JOANNE KLEIN

SANDRA LOCKLEAR

A veteran of cabaret, musical theatre, and concert, JOANNE KLEIN combines her diverse talents to present an innovative blend of music, theatre, comedy and lyricism. From jazz to pop, swing to R&B, classics to originals, everything she touches becomes a fresh look at the world. Energetic, versatile and clever with a sophisticated flair, Ms Klein is very musical, very zany, and above all, totally entertaining. ...incapable of being anything other than dynamite... - Wayne Johnson, Seattle Times.

Pianist-Singer Solo to combo, Sandra performs fresh swinging jazz and pop standards, sexy bossa novas, riveting ballads and her own compositions. With a natural gift for connecting with audiences, she pairs a rich alto voice with elegant jazz piano stylings refined over many years of playing venues in the Pacific Northwest, Canada and Europe. For bookings, contact: info@sandralocklear.com. “Sandra brings class, spirit, and artistic inspiration ...” - David Syre, CEO

Contact: www.joannekleindiva.com, joanneklein49@netzero.net

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

For bookings, contact: info@sandralocklear.com., www.sandralocklear.com, www.youtube.com

SPECIAL PROMOTION

LEAH NATALE Style - Leah’s sultry vocals capture the artful simplicity of American and Brazilian jazz standards. “Natale’s delivery is playful, hip, sexy and at times, coy.” - Earshot Jazz Magazine. Credits - Leah’s debut album My Someday, recorded with a 10 – piece jazz orchestra, can be heard on several radio stations around the country and has been well received throughout Japan. Attributes – “Leah is quietly gaining a much deserved reputation around town with her sultry voice and slick vocal styling” - Earshot Jazz Magazine

STEPHANIE PORTER Stephanie Porter ’s rich vocals, melodic styling’s and original interpretations of jazz standards give her a distinctly original sound. Locally, she has headlined at Seattle’s top rooms including Jazz Alley, The Triple Door, Tula’s and El Gaucho’s Pampas Room. She has performed at high profile galas and before international audiences. After the release of her debut album “Mood Swings”, KPLU’s Nick Morrison describes her as “One of the freshest new jazz singers he’s heard in quite some time”. Contact: (206) 407.4513 - portersings@comcast.net

SUSAN SIMS Suze Sims 2009 WBS Best Female Vocalist & 2008 Performer of the Year international vocalist composer with no tricks or tweaks. Daughter of Jazz drummer Pete La Roca; Suze’s band - the Red Hot Blues Sisters; tour US Europe Canada as 2008 WBS Best Band & 2008/09 Blues Foundation IBC SemiFinalists. A truly unmistakably soul-shaking artist & musically healing engaging headliner or support talent for WNBA, Mavis Staples, Shemekia Copeland, Phoebe Snow, Joan Armatrading, Elvin Bishop, Bobby Rush, Melissa Etheridge, Bernard Alison and Canned Heat. Not to be missed! Contact: www.cdbaby.com/cd/rhbsisters3, sus14an@yahoo.com, www.bigsismedia.com/RHBS.html, www.facebook.com/.../Red-Hot-Blues-Sister, www.peacecoderecords.com/Red_Hot_Blues_Sisters.html

LEAH STILLWELL Fresh and alluring, Leah Stillwell is a classy addition to the Seattle jazz scene. Her first CD, So This Is Love, was released under the Pony Boy Records label to rave reviews. “Her clear alto voice radiates optimism and love of life.” -Heritage Music Revi ew. “A lways u nderst ated bu t vibr antexhilarating!” -Overton Berry. Her stylish vocals will make your occasion an event to remember. For performances and booking visit: www.leahstillwell.com or call 425-239-3079.

MERCEDES NICOLE Mercedes Nicole is a intimately explosive performer with a voice that is warm, expressive and soulful. She moves from a deep contralto to a startling clear mezzo soprano with ease and conviction. Although her voice is uniquely her own, fans often hear hints of Sarah, Dinah and Nina Simone. Mercedes definitely wears the title of ‘Sassy!” When she swings, she swings hard, and when she serenades, be prepared to surrender your heart! She connections on such an emotional with her voice and personality that Jazz Lovers constantly request information about the whereabouts of her next show! For booking information, call: 206-235-0478 www.mercedesnicole.com, www.myspace.com/ mercedesnicolemakesmusic

MAIA SANTELL A descendant of Seattle’s Jackson Street era of jazz, Maia Santell is known as “The Pacific Northwest Queen of Swing”. She is one of the few Northwest female singer/bandleaders that has managed to keep an ensemble of male instrumentalists giggin’ for over two decades. Her vocals are clear, warm and natural; totally free of contrived theatricality, and her phrasing is impeccable. Maia leads a “Dancing With the Stars” style combo, as well as a jazz and blues band. Contact: www.MaiaSantell.com, santellswings@comcast.net, gwgrape47@comcast.net

MARC SMASON Trombonist/vocalist/composer, Marc Smason learned, from his mother, to sing as a young child in Texas and studied classical and jazz trombone and voice in Seattle and Los Angeles. He has performed around the world with such luminaries as Big Joe Turner, the Funk Brothers, Andy Statman, Perry Robinson, Sam Shepard, Julian Priester, Buel Neidlinger, Sonny Simmons, Hadley Caliman, Jeff Johnson, Marc Graham, Baby Gramps and the Ivar’s Clams, as well as music for film and theater. His playing encompasses many styles including Jazz, Latin, Brazilian, collective improv, Klezmer and R&B. Smason’s vocals...are at once dry and emotional, lending a fresh, believable quality. - Mike Dennis, Earshot www.marcsmason.com, musicetc@clearwire.net

BECKI SUE Becki Sue, a Texas/Chicago style blues belter, burst onto the NW scene in 2002 as lead singer of Becki Sue & her Big Rockin’ Daddies! A newcomer then, Becki Sue gained the status of ‘Award Winning Blues Performer’ when honored by The Washington. Blues Society with “BB” Awards as “Best Female Vocalist” and “Performer of the Year” Michelle Burgein 2007 ... and her band was voted “Best Blues Band” in both 2006 and 2007. This gal can flat out sing! ...and her onstage look and moves leaves ‘em beggin’ for more every time! Contact: www.bigrockindaddies.com, www.myspace.com/ bigrockindaddies, rebekahd@comcast.net

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

SPECIAL PROMOTION

JACQUELINE TABOR

ALMA VILLEGAS

In the past 5 years I have had the honor of working with such clients as Microsoft, Tom Douglas, Weber Thompson, and Northland Communications. I understand the term background music and always level my volume to allow intimate conversations. I have experience with MC’s and event planners. I perform for such a variety of corporate clients and at more than 100 corporate events, celebrations, birthdays and weddings. If you want experience and a touch of class please keep me in mind. I am Jacqueline D. Tabor.

Alma Villegas’ lustful voice brings you an exquisite and passionate selection of Latin flavors focusing on the traditional bolero (Latin ballad), cha-chas, bossa novas, mid-tempo Latin jazz standards and a variety of Cuban rhythms including son and salsa. Alma has performed at venues and festivals in the Northwest for over ten years. Join her on an excursion of soul and tradition. Available as a trio, quartet or quintet. For booking, visit www.almavillegas.com or mail@almavillegas.com

Contact: 206.890.6716, www.vocalsbyjacqueline.com www.gigmasters.com/Singer JacquelineDTabor/

KEELY WHITNEY

DARRIUS WILLRICH

Keely Whitney is Seattle’s best kept secret. Having sung on many national recordings for companies such as: The Disney Channel, McDonald’s, Taco Bell, Ben Bridge and Oldsmobile, has a reputation for vocal excellence. In 2007 Keely won a Soundie, a national award for excellence in commercial recordings. With a powerful, soulful, sultry voice, Keely can effortlessly soar into her 3½ octave range with the precision that only a seasoned professional can achieve. Look for Keely’s debut album coming out in 2010!

Seattle’s soul-singer-songwriter Darrius Willrich drips a sensuous interplay of soul, jazz, and inner city longings. Sure to engage your all your sens es, with the loo k, sound and fee l of yesterday’s soul-today. The spirit of Stevie Wonder, D’Angelo, and Herbie Hancock, season the musical stew that is Darrius...Sweet Urban Soul. Being a trained jazz pianist, a soulful singer, and an intelligent songwriter, with love for hip-hop, Darrius Willrich delivers feel good music drawn from a wide skill spectrum.

Contact: website: www.keelywhitney.com, keelytyler@yahoo.com

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

Cont act: w ww.dar riuswi llrich .com, darriuswillrich, me@darriuswillrich.com

www.my space. com/

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010

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BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • MARCH, 2010