CoffeeTalk Jazz Magazine April 2023 by CoffeeTalk Jazz Magazine

COFFEETALK JazzMagazine

BERKLEE COLLEGE OF MUSIC THE 86TH ANNUAL GRAMMY AWARDS

THE ERIC EVANS PROJECT “ODE TO JOY”

PEET

PROJECT COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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EDITOR’S NOTE Who We Are We are entering a new season Spring is here!!!! There is a thrilling calm this time of year days are filled with listening to and pouring over contemporary music from emerging artist and seasoned musicians. As the rain and gray of winter start to fade the world slowly wakes up catching glimmers of light breaking through the cloudy skies in Los Angeles. I am excited to introduce the readers to the stellar group of musicians I hand selected to represent our national and international brand. Each artist takes us behind the curtain giving us a sneak peek inside their world sharing stories of triumph and overcoming. The winter months have been brutally cold the News of economic decline and the passing of friends and family have left our communities shaken but there is hope and healing through music. We’re embracing the ever-changing tides that come with adapting and shifting to a fragile global economy. The news of another mass shooting has left famlies, neighborhoods and communities reeling. But the harsh reality is mental health hasn’t been a top priority for most. Our readers are finding hope and healing through music each artist brings their unique voice, rhythm, style, melodies, lyrics, cords, and exquisite sounds. Music washes over us like a sweet warm blanket bringing comfort with every note. Let’s turn down the noise and listen to the music there is hope and healing. I would like to introduce you to this incredible artist featured in our Spring issue. Our feature story highlights five twenty-something musicians. They are an international jazz, funk sensation The Peet Project from Budapest Hungary. This pop-funk-jazz band original music is seductive with eclectic blend traveling national and internationally in the United States and other European countries like Spain, Slovakia, Romania, Malta, and Switzerland. Meet Eric Evans he produces original pop/smooth jazz music. This talented multi-woodwind instrumentalist plays flute, alto flute, EWI, (a unique sounding electronic woodwind instrument that can play many sounds) and alto sax. Meet Southeast Louisville, KY Saxophonist and vocalist and CoffeeTalk Jazz Radio fan favorite Bennie J. Smith music has shaped and saved his life he’s an overcomer. Chicago native versatile Saxophonist recording artist Mekiel Reuben followed his dream of becoming a recording artist, when he returned to the USA, he continued his music studies with the legendary saxophonist Bill Greene bridges genres while appealing to a broad audience. Each musician shares one common thread they love music. If you like gospel, straight head jazz, neo soul pop, classical, funk gospel or soul you’ll find it all here inside the pages of CoffeeTalk Jazz Magazine. The best is yet to come,

Founder and Editorial Director

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“Cassia”

“Artist Spotlight”

Let’s Eat

Artist Meet & Greet

“With Ms. Bridgette Lewis”

Peet Project “Feature Story”

Berklee College of Music

“The world’s Peeminent College”

Caffe Luxxe

“The World Is Full Of Beauty”

Fun. Games. Entertainment. “Recharge & Socialize”

Bennie J. Smith “Artist Spotlight”

Cartier in Beverly Hills “Fashion & Jewelry”

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Eric Evans

The 86th Annual Grammy Awards “2023”

COSTA COFFEE

“Crafted To Be The Best”

100

Shades of Elegance “Escada”

106

Mekiel Reuben “Artist Spotlight”

140

Fashion Forward

“Red Carpet to Reality”

152

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico “Well Travelled”

156 Barbados

“Well Travelled”

Table of Contents Apirl 2023

Magazine Staff Editorial Director

Writers

Bridgette Y. Lewis

Entertainment Editor Vivian Jacobs

Associate Editor David Decarlo

Travel Editor

Denia Grey Charmaine Whitei

Contributing Writer Tamaj Jamieson

Legal Department Dr. Weston Taylor

Lisa Carlson Eileen Deymier Lisa Mowry

National Advertising

Copy Editor

Andrew Mukuye

Elixo Gilies Frankie Racenelli

Style Editor

Loro Piana Francisco Opiiu

Stephen Orr

Graphics Designer Photographers Erick Henderson Elizabeth Hill Megan Miller

Connect with us

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let’s eat

Cassia is a member of the Rustic Canyon Family and is a partnership between husband-and-wife duos Bryant Ng & Kim Luu-Ng and Josh Loeb & Zoe Nathan.

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Taking its roots from Bryant and Kim’s culinary heritage and experiences, Cassia celebrates the fresh, vibrant flavors of Southeast Asia, striking a unique balance of soulful, ancestral cuisine and a California sensibility, utilizing the best quality ingredients from local farmers. Since opening in 2015, Cassia has earned critical acclaim from the Los Angeles Times, New York Times, Bon Appétit, GQ and more, along with a James Beard semifinalist nomination for “Best New Restaurant” in 2016 and Michelin Plate recognition in 2021. Bryant is also a 2022 James Beard finalist for “Best Chef – California” after being a semifinalist in 2017. WEBSITES Shop – Cassia (cassiala.com) Cassia – Santa Monica, Calif. (cassiala.com)

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DESIGN STANDOUT STYLE The 2023 BMW X2 turns conventional automotive design on its head with an appearance and attitude unlike anything else on the road. Classic. The swooping X2 roofline is inspired by the sportiness of classic coupe design – and lowers the center of gravity for a look that’s anything but apologetic. Unconventional. The inverted kidney grille is a fresh take on a distinctive icon. A chrome frame with black high-gloss bars adds to the focused, energetic appearance of the X2. Rugged. The rear of the BMW X2 is styled without a bumper step, while an available M-specific spoiler provides the finishing touch. Daring. Add the optional M Sport Package for extra aggressive style, including the highgloss black accents of Shadowline trim. Technology ahead of the curve. The 2023 BMW X2 features some of BMW’s most forward-thinking technology, keeping you connected to your life on the road – and everywhere you go.

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Artist Meet & Greet and VIP photos with Bridgette Lewis

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PEET PR

www.peetpr

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ROJECT

roject.com

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Peet Project are violinist, composer, produc-

Love Seat brings the hip hop factor into play,

Závodi, keyboardist Olivér Magán, bassist

ic lead with Peet. Endless Road builds the

er Peter “Peet” Ferencz, saxophonist Attila Martin Gudics, and drummer Marcell Gu-

dics. Their albums are Pink Spirit (2010), Turn You On (2011), Overseas (2013), Love (2015),

The Bad Boys Of Budapest (2017) and Ups & Down (2020).

Their newest project is the album Sweet

Lemon (2022). Guest musicians on the new

album are Michael Thompson (guitar), Atus Zombori (guitar) and Feng Ya Ou (backing

vocals). All songs are written by the group.

with Attila Závodi on sax sharing melod-

melody in cascades that unfold like a water fountain.

The band doesn’t shy away from contact

with techno music either, though it definitely sets its own moments on Crazy Times. Wait

For Me lets the synth bass be the spike as a promotional accent. An emotional finale is

Yours Forever, which could well be played at any wedding.

The album opens with the title song a fresh

With Sweet Lemon, Peet Project has once

Peet’s violin as a special distinguishing fea-

which the band recommends itself as a

revelation of energetic smooth jazz with

ture. Donut Jam harkens back to the funky days with an upbeat fiddle that has made the leap into the modern era.

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again delivered a successful album, with Hungarian variation of professional smooth jazz.

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PEET PROJECT 20 20

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Attila Závodi Saxophonist

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Saxophonist Born in the city of Paks (80 miles south of Budapest) in 1986, Attila’s love for music came from his father who introduced him to the world of musical instruments at a young age, giving Attila his first saxophone when he was just 13 years old. While studying music, Attila played in different popular Hungarian bands before joining the Peet Project in 2013. Besides handling saxophone duties, Attila also contributes songs to the band’s repertoire, including the Billboard-charting hit Galaxies (off the 2020 album Ups & Downs) and songs like Drive Time (with a music video shot in Los Angeles), River Cruise (with a video filmed on a river cruise ship in Budapest), along with the title track for the new album Sweet Lemon. In Hungary, Attila has toured with such high-profile local acts as Quincy Jones’ protégé Gigi Radics and the pop act Rapülök, with the latter routinely filling 15,000-seat arenas. Attila’s most recent solo single, River Waves is well over 1.6 million streams on amazon. Attila is a proud endorser of the legendary Theo Wanne Saxophone Mouthpieces and Antigua saxophones. COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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PEET PROJECT – POP-FUNK-JAZZ FROM “THE BAD BOYS OF BUDAPEST”

Marcell Gudics Drums

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DRUMS M

arcell began to play the drums at the age of 9, studying classical percussion for four yearsbefore moving back to the drum kit. He continued his studies in jazz, graduating from a localcollege where he studied with internationally renowned drummer Péter Szendőfi. Thanks to his solid groove, tasteful chops and impeccable timekeeping skills, Marcell is an in-demand session player in Hungary besides taking care of drumming duties in the Peet Project. He tours and records with several high-profile local pop acts on a regular basis, most notably with the pop band The Biebers. Gudics Twins, the duo project he launched with twin brother Martin is a true gem and a magnet for discerning jazz fusion fans and lovers of virtuoso instrumental music all over the world. Marcell teaches drumming at music schools and is a returning instructor at summer drum camps.

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Martin Gudics Bass

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Bass

Martin Gudics is one of the most talented young bass players not only in his native country of Hungary, but also on the international stage. Although he is still in his twenties, he has already recorded and appeared on stage with American sax legend Dave Koz, shared the stage with Nathan East and Larry Graham, played with Chieli Minucci, Federico Malaman, Gergo Borlai, Dali Mraz, Marius Pop, Mike Gotthard and lent his talent many Hungarian pop, jazz and fusion bands while having been a permanent member of the Peet Project. He is also a fixture on the European arena tours of cello sensation Hauser. Martin began to learn music at the age of 11 and played rock with his brothers in his first band. He learned the ins and outs of bass guitar playing from Hungarian bass teachers. He founded Gudics Twins, their musical love project with his twin brother Marcell, the Peet Project’s talented drummer. Their first video generated over a million views on YouTube and they have been a fan favorite among jazz fusion lovers everywhere. Martin has been a member of the Peet Project since 2014. The band’s latest album Sweet Lemon not only showcases Martin’s excellent playing but also his excellent composition skills.

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Olivér Magán Keyboards

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Keyboards 34

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Oliver’s journey with the piano began at the age of 12. Fast forward to a few years later, he graduated as pianist at a

Jazz Conservatory in Hungary. He has worked with a number of top local talent, such as American-Hungarian pop-soul

vocalist Viktor Király (finalist of the 2015 season of The Voice in the US), Quincy Jones’ protégée Gigi Radics, local TV celebrity Tibor Kasza and many others.

Besides holding down keyboard duties in the Peet Project, Oliver is also a busy session player in Hungary, regularly

appearing in high-profile TV shows like the X Factor and a women-oriented weekly TV talk show.

His composing skills are showcased in several Peet Project tracks, most recently in Love Seat, a brilliant track on the

Sweet Lemon album. Oliver has a natural flair for visual arts. He is an avid drone buff and is a master at creating great video content.

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PEET PROJECT 36

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Péter “Peet” Ferencz Violin & Vocals

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NEW SINGLE Announcement!

Budapest, Hungary’s Peet Project‘s

new single “Donut Jam” is an irresist-

ibly pleasant, groovy track with a sweet

“…The Peet Project…it’s pure fun, pure musical genius” -Dave Koz

chorus, an even sweeter bridge and fun

“Donut Jam”

and sax all the way through.

Written by

The track’s main composer is Martin, the

di, Oliver Magan and Marcell Gudics

musical interactions between bass, violin

band’s bass player. He recalled how the song was born: “Once the harmonies of

the chorus popped up in my head, I got goosebumps. From that moment on, I

Martin Gudics, Peter Ferencz, Attila Zavo-

Produced, mixed and mastered by Péter “Peet” Ferencz

virtually could not sleep until we record-

Violin: Peter Ferencz

one of my favorite songs from the up-

Alto Sax: Attila Zavodi

tened to it over a hundred times already,

Keys: Oliver Magan

am totally thrilled!”

Bass: Martin Gudics

Now. the finished track is presented to

Drums: Marcell Gudics

ed the demo in the studio. Donut Jam is coming Peet Project album. I have lis-

and it has not even been released yet. I

you for airplay consideration.

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PEET PROJECT

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eter kicked off his musical journey at the age of four with classical violin lessons. At 13 he

began to play for pop groups, which not only broadened his musical horizons but also

fed his interest in composing, sound recording and

mixing. By 15, he was writing and recording music for hip-hop, R’n’B, house and pop acts in his home stu-

dio and used his free time to learn to play the guitar and the piano. At high school, Peter founded what

later became the Peet Project with schoolmate and keyboard player Ádám Lőrincz. Their original music soon got airplay at Budapest-based smooth-jazz/

lounge radio station 90.9 Jazzy. In 2009 they won the grand prize in the station’s song competition with a Candy Dulfer-style jazz-funk track titled Be Free which became the first Peet Project hit.

A natural born leader, Peet not only excels as the

Peet Project’s frontman and band leader, but he is

also a renowned producer and sound engineer. His

outstanding work as recording, mixing and mastering engineer and producer of all Peet Project tracks was quickly recognized by the local music industry,

making him one of the busiest and most in-demand music producers in Hungary.

In 2020, Peet served as assistant music director to

the legendary Nathan East at the Jazz Weekender festival in Carmel, CA. Being a devote follower of Christ, Peet also serves as a worship leader in a local church and pursues prolific solo career in Christian music under the stage name Azapeet. If all that were not enough, Peet takes care of video editing and production duties for most Peet

Project videos. His talents are also recognized internationally, as he provides video production services to industry clients based in the USA.

He works out of his neatly equipped home studio near Hungary’s capi-

tal, Budapest, where he enjoys the tranquility of countryside life with his wife Alexandra.

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The Peet Project receives su Cultural Fund of Hunga 42

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upport from the National ary for their US tours COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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About Berklee Berklee is dynamic, innovative, creative, global, and bold—a place that embraces improvisation and innovation. Founded on jazz, the music of the

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and collaborate, and where artistic and cultural diversity is embraced and celebrated. This ethos permeates all aspects of Berklee—from teaching and learning to administration and governance—and is fundamental to the Berklee experience.

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Berklee continually cultivates its own promise—stretching, expanding, and reinventing itself in a rapidly changing world. In recent years, Berklee has opened new campuses in New York City and Valencia, Spain, and grown

Berklee Online into the world’s largest online music school. In 2016, the Boston Conservatory—the oldest and one of the most prestigious conservato-

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Who is on your CD player? Peet: Literally everything, except maybe the

end of the session we always have an “enjoyable” demo to listen to.

hardest rock styles. We love today’s pop mu- Attila: Martin mentioned the song ideas that

sic, even electronic dance music. Dua Lipa, we bring to the studio. Here is how I capture Charlie Puth, Martin Garrix and Zedd just to mine: First I sing the core melodies and re-

mention a few. Then we also listen to 80s mu- cord them with my phone. Then I keep refining

sic and gospel music a lot. Naturally, all this is those basic melodies and develop them into beside our favorite smooth jazz artists.

something that I can take to my keyboards.

Once I can play it all on keyboard, I record it

Attila: My personal favorites are Kirk Whalum, again and bring it to the boys when we are in Marcus Anderson, Brian Culbertson, Dave Koz, the studio. Then we finish it together. Everette Harp and Marcus Miller but I really listen to many others as well.

What is your favorite song to perform?

Martin: You have to stay informed to remain Peet: That always depends on our current competitive. In this respect, music is like any material because we are very excited to see

other profession. Each of us does a lot of ses- how the audience reacts to our new music.

sion work for other artists so we must stay E.g. these days we all love playing our latest on top of our game, both as instrumentalists radio single “Donut Jam”. and songwriters.

Martin: My favorite from Sweet Lemon, the

Peet: Since I also work as a music produc- new album coming in December 2022 is End-

er for many other acts in the totally differ- less Road - because it is a relatively spe-

ent styles, it inevitably keeps my ears open cial one in our repertoire. The time signature

for new sounds and current trends. I usual- (6/8) is unusual in our genre and it has some ly bring those influences with me to the Peet progressive elements, not to mention the killProject sessions and then we decide whether er guitar solo by Michael Thompson. His parwe want to use any of it in our own music.

ticipation is a dream come true in itself.

proach

Oliver: I love performing Down to the Lake -

What is your creative process like?

in it.

The new album is a great example of this ap-

because of the keyboard solo that I can play

Martin: Usually we all meet in Peet’s studio Attila: I love Chill with Us because of its speand one of us comes up with a song idea. cial atmosphere. Sometimes it is just a short melody and a few

chords the we start brainstorming over it. We Which famous musicians do you admire? record all ideas immediately and start to ar-

range the song at the same time, so by the Peet: My personal favorite from the pop world

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Q&A

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

With

Peet Project Band APRIL 2023

is Charlie Puth. From the smooth jazz scene, my biggest inspiration is Brian Culbertson.

Oliver: My favorite musician is Anomalie. He is such a great pianist and producer!

Martin and Marcell: It is Steve Lukather – and

greater potential audience. Yet it also puts

pressure on us, because we need to deliver regularly in the online realm as well.

Walk us through a day in the life of being a musician?

probably this needs no explanation.

Marcel: We all play in several other bands

derson, they are fantastic players!

and attend rehearsals, then go on tour. And

Attila: I admire Kirk Whalum and Marcus An-

What is the best advice you have been given?

Peet: “Don’t play a note on your instrument until you are sure that you can give some-

thing positive to the universe with it.” That

came from Dave Koz while we were recording Rosy Cheeks in our studio in 2017. What would your family say is your best quality?

Oliver: They say it is obvious that we all love playing this kind of music and that it comes

and musical acts, too. So mostly we practice some of us including me, teach as well. Peet

is a music producer, so he usually works in his studio during the day and then goes on stage in the evenings. We all love the famed

“rock & roll lifestyle”, with staying up until dawn and sleeping through half of the next day, but it never happens. We all get up ear-

ly in the morning, even if we had to perform until late the night before. That is why we love touring in the US, because there we all can focus on the Peet Project shows only.

How has Peet Project’s music style evolved over the years?

straight from our hearts. They can see it on

Peet: Back in 2010, at the time of our first al-

have the time of our lives while performing

and direction for our music. We figured out

our faces when we step on the stage. We all and during the creative process in the studio. It all adds an extra vibe to our music.

How has the music industry changed the last decade?

Peet: It has become completely digital. We still sell physical CDs, mostly at shows, but

they are more like merchandise. The vast

majority of people listen to music online

these days. That, of course, is also a great opportunity because you can reach out to a

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bum we are about finding the right sound that we enjoyed the most: great energy, funky grooves using saxophone and violin in combination most of the time, with some addi-

tional vocals to spice up things and the brave use of electronic elements. Current pop mu-

sic has always had a great influence on our creative process and that has not changed.

If you could have steamed hot Coffee with

any music icon or legend past or present, who would you select and why?

Attila: I would love to spend some time with

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Maceo Parker and would love to hear some stories about his years with James Brown.

Oliver: I am curious about Michael Jackson! Martin: Steve Lukather, because he is my musical hero.

Why is it critically important that musicians understand the business side of music?

Oliver: It is very important to always do what you love. We all have to stick to this founda-

tion. I am saying this because sometimes

when we start to see behind the scenes, it can easily control our creative decisions. Seeing

the kids. Where does the group writing process come from?

Attila: Our goal is to work as a group on and

off stage as well, so we make it a point to do the songwriting together in the studio. I am very happy that with the new album (which is our seventh studio album), we were able to use this approach for each and every song.

What do you want fans to know about each member of Peet’s Project?

Peet: I am a worship leader and Christ-fol-

and understanding market demand can ruin

lowing Christian.

let that happen. Of course, especially today,

Oliver: I just got married this summer.

cause of this huge noise going out there on

Attila: I became a happy father this year.

there, online and offline service providers

Martin & Marcel: We are identical twins, but

our natural way of development. We can’t we need to understand how things work, be-

the market. There are so many scams out who promise you a miracle. If you understand how things truly work you can see in-

stantly why their promises cannot be true, or at least not for every artist they work with.

Is the group involved in any charitable

foundations that support ARTS education for children?

Martin: As mentioned earlier, some of us teach music, even to the youngest genera-

tion. We participate in several programs and

attend music camps year by year. These

Marcell is 8 minutes older than me.

Who are / what was it that shaped each member’s desire to choose a career in music?

Peet: Around the age of 12 I discovered the possibility of making music on a personal

computer using a couple of simple studio equipment items, and by the age of 16 I knew

that I would want to keep on doing this for the rest of my life.

programs provide the young generation with

Oliver: First I started to learn to play the clar-

with their musical careers. We all have a very

found my true instrument. I wanted to be-

inspiration and professional support to help

serious responsibility to be an inspiration for

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

inet but when I changed to piano, I knew I come the best keyboard player that I could

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possibly be. Martin & Marcel: Our dad is a drummer and we have an older brother who is a great singer and guitarist. When we were still teenag-

ers, we started a family rock band called “The

If you could change anything about the industry, what would it be?

Peet: Less online, more live. Less digital, more physical.

Gamblers”. We decided that Marcel would

Attila: I would like to see the more use of real

bass. We never stopped ever since.

tal solos in pop songs again – like it used to

play the drums and Martin would play the

Attila: I learned saxophone in several differ-

ent music schools in Hungary and had great

inspirations locally and worldwide as well. I always dreamed of becoming a profession-

al musician like them, and I am very grateful that it became reality.

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instruments and I could imagine instrumenbe!

Who or what inspired each individual member of the group to make great music?

Peet: I think music is really a spiritual thing, it is God’s gift to humans. He gave it to us to express feelings that cannot be expressed in

any other way. So He is the greatest inspira-

tion, even to those who write music without knowing Him.

With all that is going on in the world today do you think people look to music to supply a sense of hope?

Peet: Definitely. Music is a great tool to take

they “fly back home from the island”, it can

bring a positive change. That is our mission. What’s on your bucket list? Peet: Playing in South America and Asia. But

we have never been to New York, and we would love to see it and perform there.

out people from their weekday problems for

Oliver: Doing a Peet Project tour across the

island of emotions that they actually need,

I would love that!

even just a moment and fly them away to an

and when the musical experience is over and

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

USA from New York to San Diego in a tour bus!

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The world is full of beauty, And we love bringing it home for you It all began in 2006 by co-founders Mark Wain and Gary Chau who are best friends since school, with a richly

drawn espresso enjoyed one fine Italian morning while

on holiday. From first sip, we began dreaming of traveling the world to source inspiration for our own neighborhood caffes.

Back then, artisanal coffee wasn’t even a thing. Grabbing

a cup just meant going through the line at a local shop or national chain to drink mostly burnt coffee. We brought a method and approach to Los Angeles that has now be-

come a standard and we are incredibly proud to have set this bar.

Some of the luxuries you enjoy here start thousands of

miles away, on small family-run farms where our com-

mitment to sustainable and ethical business practices directly improves the quality of life for our partners. Secur-

ing the best coffee beans, discovering unique ingredients, perfecting our methods, and interpreting the character of Europe’s most stunning places are vital to our artisanal expression.

We do all of this because we know that our simple pleasures can transform an ordinary morning into a bright spot in your day.

APRIL 2023

OUR PHILOSOPHY Unparalleled quality you can taste

With great reverence for old world tradition,

immaculate attention to detail, and the rigor of true masters, we continually seek to perfect our methods so we can faithfully offer you the most sumptuous culinary delights every single time.

FARM TO CUP The entire lifecycle of our efforts is dedicat-

ed to honoring the coffee and its producers. The farmer farms the land to yield the best

coffee beans. The roaster roasts the coffee

to highlight the inherent characteristics of its terroir (where the coffee comes from). And

the barista crafts the drink to celebrate the

roast for our guests to taste and appreciate the difference.

DISCIPLINED SOURCING Everything starts with the beans. We travel across the world to forge the kind of long-

term relationships that not only produce the best product, but also ensure a transparent

exchange that benefits all of us. Our sustainable approach guarantees that we care for the people, places, and partnerships upon

which we depend on deep respect and a vision for our collective wellbeing.

CULINARY ROASTING Always small batch roasted in our Probat

machines, we use a human touch (never a

computer) to stay true to the bean. With consideration for provenance and

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charater, we take a chef-level approach to our rigorous process that honors the

farmers’ effort to grow, nurture, pick, and process the coffee. By drawing out its

unique flavor profile and achieving the

best balance, we elevate the coffee produced to its highest potential. The result

of these efforts has created highly rated

and respected coffees – all 90+ points – since we began roasting.

METICULOUS TRAINING To certify our baristi as masters at their

craft, they undergo at least 6 months of training to study the culinary arts and sciences and refine the skills needed

to meet our standards. They learn our roasting process, train on our manual

machines, and test their own handiwork

APRIL 2023

LA’s Original Artisan Coffee – Sharing Knowledge & Fine Taste Since 2006 to understand our techniques inside and

out. Only then are they fluent in our artis-

anal approach and fully qualified to serve up the most delicious of coffee creations. As the first purveyor to launch the Third Wave coffee movement in Los Ange-

les, Caffe Luxxe has been helping people discover how fine coffee should taste. In that time, we have been recognized by

journalists and customers alike for having

the best tasting coffee in Los Angeles year after year. Using double-blind cupping

evaluations, we have consistently earned

90+ point ratings from Coffee Review, the

world’s foremost coffee guide (the coffee

industry’s equivalent to the Michelin star ratings system). It is our deep honor to receive

such accolades and a responsibility we don’t take lightly. As your culinary collaborator, we bring this level of excellence to our wholesale partnerships to elevate and achieve your goals.

BrentwoodSan Vicente Brentwood

www.caffeluxxe.com

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

APRIL 2023

Music Review Written by: Bridgette Lewis

APRIL 2023

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

APRIL 2023

CoffeeTalk JazzMusic Review “The beautiful energetic larger than life twenty something group known as

Peet Project sound brings fun to the party with every note. Peet Project Donut

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dio listeners love the glam rock soulful sound this international band brings

with their releases. They will surely dominate the internet charts and music

landscape in 2023” said Bridgette Lewis Executive Producer for CoffeeTalk Jazz Radio Los Angeles.

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

APRIL 2023

Fun. Games. Entertainment.

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APRIL 2023

Some Real Sizzle At the boldly delicious Blazing Noodles, you’ll discover inc redible flavors that span borders and fuse together some of your favorite Asian dishes and styles. From Singapore Noodles, Mongolian beef, and Chilean sea bass in a clay pot, to countless other favorites, our menu whisks each and every diner off on their own thrilling journey to delicious destinations where tradition and innovation meet.

What’s going on at Blends? Meet your party for coffee or tea. Get some work done on your laptop, using our free high-speed WiFi. Relax with a glass of wine or share a bottle with friends. How about a freshly baked good or a tasty ready-made sandwich? It’s all here. We like to think of this Pechanga favorite as one of the best hangouts spots, you’ll find anywhere at our resort — or just plain anywhere.

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ble games offers winning times for all. We proudly offer over 153 table games (not counting poker), as well as the most mystery card roulette and double-deck blackjack tables of any casino on the West Coast. And our knowledgeable, friendly staff are here to help you have the best time.

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TABLE GAMES

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Dinner for two Treat that special someone to our special Dinner For Two at the Great Oak Steakhouse and experience the succulent tenderness of expertly prepared, USDA Prime Steaks. Your feast for two begins with a 32-ounce Longbone Ribeye, tastily moves to an 8-ounce Filet Mignon sliced to order, and is accompanied by Asparagus, Duck-Fat Potatoes and Sautéed Mushrooms.

APRIL 2023

A Culinary Destination One of the region’s premier destination dining establishments, the AAA Four Diamond-rated Great Oak Steakhouse delivers the perfect setting to create those unforgettable life moments over a memorable culinary experience you will savor. Whether it’s one of our sumptuous, Prime-Grade Angus steaks seared to your perfect order, one of your favorite seafood delicacies creatively prepared, appetizers and side dishes that go beyond culinary complements or our exceptional wine list recognized by Wine Spectator and Wine Enthusiast magazines, the Great Oak stands as the culinary standard for fine-dining ambiance.

The Perfect Venue Our exceptional function settings include beautiful ballrooms and venues for weddings and special events. A variety of comfortably elegant breakout rooms provide the optimum setting for meetings, conferences and classroom set-ups for groups of all sizes.

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

APRIL 2023

Artist Spotlight Saxophonist & Vocalist

Bennie J. Smith Celebrating 50 Years Bennie J. Smith is a Danville-Lexington, KY native currently based in Louisville. He is the eldest of 4 born into the union of Bennie and Dolores Smith. I grew up in the West End housing projects of Old Charlotte Court and was raised simultaneously in Danville and Lexington. As an adolescent thru his pre-teen years, he listened to the radio and records of artists such as Jackson 5, Percy Sledge, The Beatles, Dionne Warwick, Stevie Wonder, Aretha Franklin, Paul Revere & The Raiders and many countless others. I started playing the flutophone in the 4th grade at Booker T. Washington Elementary School in Lexington before integration. After the separation and divorce of his parents, his mother moved the family to Danville and as a means to address his aggressions, he learned to play the alto saxophone in the beginning band at Edna L. Toliver Elementary School under the tutelage of Mr. William Gravely. I eventually played in the Bate Junior High School Band under Mr. Boyd. He also played little league football at the 6th Street Park.

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By the age of 14, the family relocated back to Lexington, and he began playing in the Winburn Junior High School Band under Miss O’Nan. He also resumed his interest in sports and was on the football team playing whatever position there was a slot for. He then started playing with neighborhood musicians Billy Boy McCowan, Skeets Buchannan, Willie Fain and Tilford Wallace. He played his first professional gig at The Pipeline inside a boxing ring and made his first $5.00. Smith would go on to continue his interests in sports and music. Although he never played in the high school band at Lafayette High School, at the urging of boyhood friend Tommy Walker, he finally settled on the position of defensive back in which he eventually became a starter and lettered his senior year. After being a participant in the Upward Bound program at Kentucky State University, his world was changed forever after witnessing the KSU MARCHING BAND in a Homecoming parade and halftime show at the game. I auditioned for the band right before graduation and earned a full music scholarship.

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Having the opportunity to experience an HBCU sit-

THE DAZZ BAND; KENANYA ISRAEL fka BAMM DAVIS;

ting up on a hill in Frankfort, KY during this period of

and NAJEE.

his life from the 10th thru 12th grades was very impressionable to say the least. But another life

Bennie J. opened for MORRIS DAY & THE TIME for the

changing experience was about to unfold. After au-

EVERYBODY’S FAVORITE BBQ & HOT SAUCE FESTIVAL in

ditioningearning a 2nd chair alto saxophone posi-

Louisville, KY at WATER TOWER PARK on June 4 of this

tion in the KSU Jazz Ensemble under Director David

year and R&B crooner KEITH WASHINGTON during his

Anderson, Smith witnessed Reggie Calloway, along

TEXAS performance debut in Houston November 27

with Bill Simmons, handpick several members from

in 2021. Additionally, he opened for Norman Connors

that group as well as a female vocalist from the KSU

on May 9, 2021, in Louisville, KY. He also opened for

Choirs to eventually form the techno-funk hitmak-

ROY AYERS back in 2019 in Downtown Louisville, KY

ing group...MIDNIGHT STAR!!! I knew right then which

and put together the backup band along with AYERS’

direction I wanted my music career to go head.

music director MARK ADAMS.

As a saxophonist and vocalist, he performs and re-

Additional performance opportunities 2016 and 2017

cords instrumentally and vocally. While a member of

Derby City Jazz festival featuring such notable artists

THE CALCULUS II BAND and THE RAZZ-MA-DAZZ BAND,

as: Althea Rene, Marion

he had the BLESSED opportunities of being on the

MEADOWS, BOB BALDWIN, MAYSA, and URBAN JAZZ

same billing with several national recording artists

COALITION. R&B Artist NORMAN CONNORS and Blues

such as: MIDNIGHT STAR; S.O.S. BAND; READY FOR THE

Artist THEODIS EALEY at the 22nd ANNUAL ROOTS &

WORLD; ROGER TROUTMAN & ZAPP; THE DEELE; INSTANT

HERITAGE FESTIVAL in Lexington, KY on Friday Septem-

FUNK BAND; CHOCOLATE MILK BAND; THE BAR-KAYS;

ber 9, 2011.

SLAVE; EVELYN CHAMPAGNE KING; BOBBI HUMPHREY; CHANGING FACES; ALEXANDER O’NEAL; BRIAN O’NEAL;

I released my first single in 2006 release 16 years ago of “I DON’T WANNA (LOSE YOUR LOVE)” under the BULLISTIC RECORDS label. It is an EARTH WIND & FIRE cover and tribute of “I’LL WRITE A SONG FOR YOU” written by PHILIP BAILEY, AL MCKAY and STEVE BECKMEIER. He released another single on October 14 that was previously recorded but never officially released as a tribute to Miss PATTI LABELLE with the cover “SOMEBODY LOVES YOU BABY (YOU KNOW WHO IT IS). It is also available on all streaming formats. What a 50-year journey indeed thus far for a kid who grew up in the projects on the West Side of Lexington, KY and in a small house on Russell Street in Danville, KY with big dreams.

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www.bmwusa.com COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

APRIL 2023

QA &

With Bennie J. Smith

What’s your deliration process for select-

What has been one of the highlights if your music

CD? I usually navigate the music landscape

most exciting highlights was getting the opportu-

ing what track will make the cut for your

to either see what everyone, on the average, is listening to in various genres and then I try to come up with what message I want

to convey at the time and just go with my

gut instinct. It’s not a routine and primari-

ly spontaneous. But it has to feel good and comfortable within my spirit.

career? There have been many. But probably the nity to open up for many National Recording Artists at concerts. I was fortunate to recently open for the legendary MORRIS DAY & THE TIME last summer in Louisville, KY and KEITH WASHINGTON during my Texas performance debut back in November 2021. Earlier in my career, I was fortunate enough to share the stage with MIDNIGHT STAR and S.O.S. BAND in my hometown in Lexington, KY in front of

APRIL 2023

family and friends while a member of THE CALCULUS II BAND. What’s the most important aspect of a song? The melody, groove, beat, vide or lyrics? I would have to say all 4 elements are vital to any song. I typically start off with a theme or subject matter and then just start writing down a story line, not even thinking about rhyming at the time. Then I determine what kind of groove, beat and tempo I want it to be. After that I go back and start breaking down and shortening the narrative in 4 - 8-line short sentences. Then I begin the process of trying to either make the last words in the 2nd and 4th lines rhyme or at least sound similar. It’s kind of weird. When you listen to music does it transport to a different place and time? It usually does. A lot of times I try to isolate and insulate myself in areas where there’s nobody around and I just throw on my headphones, close my eyes and just listen to all types of music and just get lost in it all. I start off with listening to instrumentals first before listening to anything lyrically. But I do try to imagine myself in another place or environment totally different from any places I’ve either ever seen or been. Do you have life’s motto? You know....after being in a lot of bands and experiencing what every musician dreads: THE BAND BREAKUP SYNDROME...I was encouraged by a dear friend from Lexington named Ed Garner who actually suggested and encouraged me to do my own thing...start my own band! And almost from the beginning, this recurring theme kept entertaining into my mind. So, I’ve actually adopted it to be my universal life motto:

“Bringing love, peace and joyous vibes to the people of the world.” What makes a great musician? Gift, talent, hard work, or dedication. I’ll have to say all 4 because when it gets down to it...EVERYBODY has a gift! We just have to figure out what it is. Of course, talent can always be developed if you take the time to hone your skills. Hard work never hurts nobody! You have to practice, practice and practice. I’ve found myself to slack up sometimes and I see the results. So, I have to be honest with myself and put in the extra work it takes to be good at what I do, instrumentally and vocally. And of course, dedication is the key component and will determine if you want to be GREAT or just MEDIOCORE!!!! This entertainment business has many, many talented and gifted artists. But the ones who rise to the top are those who are truly dedicated and put in the work. What did this project mean to you postproduction? I was BLESSED to have been able to release two singles last year that really SPECIAL to me on a personal level. The EWF cover of “I’LL WRITE A SONG FOR YOU” had an impact on me when I first heard it as a sophomore in college while attending KENTUCKY STATE UNIVERSITY with the November 1977 release of the ‘ALL-N-ALL’ album. The music was always mesmerizing with the acoustic guitar, the orchestration and of course, Philip Bailey put his signature vocals on that. So I’ve always wanted to do that song. Of course, I didn’t think it would take 45 years...LOL!!! It was released last June 28. The PATTI LABELLE cover is extra special because she was one of my Mom’s favorite artists and she absolutely loved “SOMEBODY LOVES YOU BABY (YOU KNOW WHO IT IS). And I wanted to perform that instrumentally so I could dedicate it to her. I’m

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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just sorry that she wasn’t here physically to hear

WOW!!! That’s a great question!

the results. But both songs are very special to me personally and I’m just BLESSED and fortunate to

Looking over the historical landscape... I think I

have gotten those out. They’re both available on

would first love to sit down with Mr. FREDERICK

all streaming formats.

DOUGLASS to really understand what it must have

What do you want listeners to know most about

felt like to experience all he’s been through and

you? Hmmmm... Primarily that I grew up in the

ascend to become one of this nation’s greatest

housing projects in the West End of Lexington

heroes and inspirational figures.

and a tiny house in Danville, KY. I experienced a two-parent and a single-parent household,

Next, I would definitely want to sit down with Miss

survived all the lures of the underbelly of drugs,

ARAMINTA ROSS aka HARRIET TUBMAN just to be

alcohol and other shady environments. I survived

around another courageous and strong Black

several bouts of depression through prayer and

woman who risked her life to save others while

others praying for me. I’m a giving person who

helping them to escape such treacherous times as

never wants to forget where I came from. And I

slavery in this country.

have a crazy sense of humor!!! And finally... I just love PEOPLE from all walks of life!!!

What has been one or two of the biggest challenges you face as an indie artist? I think the

How important is it to have a supportive spouse

biggest challenges have been to get my music

or partner in the music business? It’s extremely

played on mainstream radio and also get it on the

important to have someone in your life who shares

various charts. I’ve been fortunate to get airplay

and supports your vision. Artists are peculiar hu-

and to get charted on internet radio for the first

man beings and our creative juices flow almost

time in my life through Miss DINAHLYNN BIGGS and

24/7/365 and it takes a SPECIAL PERSON to be able

her BIGGS RADIO NETWORK and through Mr. HEN-

to endure and help nature and harness all of that.

DERSON VAUGHAN and his VAUGHAN RADIO MEDIA

Artists are just different, and we just try to make a

NETWORK.

contribution to the world and try to make it a better place for all of humanity.

But it’s important to share that Indie Artists are practically in the driver’s seat and control our own

What is your definition of good music? Good

destiny. We just have to learn the business, join

Music is an individual thing. What I may consider

and start your own music publishing company, get

good music may not be good music to someone

all your music copyrights and registrations filed,

else. But the main thing is it has to touch one’s soul

get your codes so your music can be tracked while

in its own unique way. There’s also ways music can

being played on the airwaves and merchandising

touch people collectively as well. But it first has to

can be accounted for. And do “live” shows any-

resonate in each individual soul and spirit.

where and anytime you can to get the exposure necessary for a successful and rewarding career.

If you could have hot steaming Coffee with anyone in history, who would it be and why?

APRIL 2023

LEAVE A LEGACY!

Music Submission www.coffeetalkjazz.com/music-submissions coffeetalkjazz COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

APRIL 2023

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COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

APRIL 2023

Artist Spotlight

Eric Evans Pop/Smooth Jazz Musican

The Eric Evans Project is a collaboration of talented musi-

cians that produce original pop/smooth jazz music. This collaboration features Eric Evans who is a multi-wood-

wind instrumentalist. He plays flute, alto flute, EWI, (a unique sounding electronic woodwind instrument that

can play many sounds) and alto sax. Eric has had the privilege of being a featured performer at Concert Ven-

ues, Jazz Festivals and as a music director for numerous

churches. He has produced Three previous CD’s including

his third “Waves of Grace” with Singer/Songwriter David Eugene Ivey. Eric is inspired by diverse musical influences from classical to jazz to rock to new age that help define the diversity and passion in his music. www.theericevansproject.hearnow.com

APRIL 2023

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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New Single Release! ODE TO JOY - The Eric Evans Project 82

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You’ll love his lustrous-jazzy touch on this eternally adored classic, “Ode to Joy”! This refreshed arrangement was given new inspiration with insights

from Gary Santo-Pietro, (an integral part of Evans’ live shows and played

Acoustic Guitar on the Track). David Eugene Ivey and Eric collaborated for the final arrangement, mix, and vibe with the addition of modern and classic or-

chestration, keys, and smooth synths! Accomplished bassist Ian Martin (Barry Manilow, Brian Simpson) lays down the essential bedrock on acoustic bass,

Dan Needham takes point on drums (Michael McDonald, Kenny Loggins, Jonathan Butler… to name just a few) And, to add next level zest, Billboard Chart topping Adam Hawley appears with keyboards and acoustic guitar! Adam

Hawley Productions brings it all together! Set your heart free from the hus-

tle-bustle this winter season and take a drive to the coast! Let Eric Evans flute

put an “Ode to Joy” in your heart as you enjoy nature’s reflections on the gifts of life!

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

APRIL 2023

QA &

APRIL 2023

With Eric Evans

Who or what inspired you to make music? It

me some sheet music and gave me my first

inet player; my mom played sousaphone/

me.

started with my parents. My dad was a clartuba in high school. I listened to all types of

flute lesson. It made a great impression on

music from classical jazz to even early rock.

I was also inspired by much of the emerging

had quite the collection of Jazz albums.

‘70s. because it combined the elements of

They had a great affection for jazz and they

When I was going into high school, they encouraged me to pick an instrument to learn. My parents said to me; “we don’t care what

instrument you pick, but pick an instrument

you’d like to learn and play.” Because of the influence of their extensive jazz album col-

lection; listening to great flautist artists like

rock fusion/jazz. That was a part of the early both Jazz and Classical music. Flautists like

Ian Anderson from Jethro Tull, Thijs van Leer of the group Focus and Tim Weisberg

What is your creative process like? It varies… It could start with something that the band starts jamming on, a melody inspired by something in nature, a phrase I hear that has special meaning….

Herbie Mann, Paul Horn, Bud Shank and Yusef Creativity is all around me when I’m in tune…ColLateef. I loved the sound of flute and chose laboration is also key and David Eugene Ivey has the flute.

My grandfather was a Band Director. He came over to our house and brought his

clarinet. He also had an extra flute, showed

COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

been on integral part of that.. usually one of us will have an idea, and then the other will help finish it.. The true processes is spending time developing those ideas or what I call song sketches. Whether the creative spark comes from a jam, collabora-

APRIL 2023

tion or another creative source, I begin the pro-

with artists such as Dixie Dregs, Stanley Clarke, Billy

cess. I work on it, and refine it until it reaches a

Cobham, and Jeff Beck.

point where I complete it or I’m able to handoff the final process of Engineering, production and mas-

What is your favorite song to perform? Probably

tering to be released.

our most favorite songs to perform live is off the Waves of Grace album. The song, Shoreline High-

What musical team of producers would you most

way because of the groove and all the changes.

like to collaborate with? I’ve been very fortunate

The band loves it and audience always loves it

to be able to work with some great engineers/pro-

too… even if they are hearing it for the first time.

ducers, of late it has been Adam Hawley and the album Waves of Grace I coproduced engineering

Which famous musicians do you admire? Bob

with Ralph Stover.

James - I love all the incredibly talented iconic artists he’s been able to collaborate with over

If I could choose anyone, I would love to work with

the years. His song writing abilities. He’s still going

engineer producer Ken Scott. He had has begin-

strong at 83 years young. I appreciate how family

nings at Abbey Road under George Martin. He

is so very important to him.

worked with the Beatles, Elton John, Supertramp and David Bowie. Scott was also influential in the

Adam Hawley - much like Bob James except

evolution of jazz rock, pioneering through his work

younger version. He’s having such an incredible

APRIL 2023

impact right now Contemporary Jazz . There are

What advice do you have for anyone starting in

times last year on the Billboard charts where not

the music business? Make sure to always place

only his music was #1 or in the top 10 but several of

your values and family first! Listen to successful

the artist he’s producing were there too. Again he’s

artists that have joy in their approach and their

a great encourager. Family and faith our a priority

crafts Learn the art of recording and production.

and his wife Kat is a part of his online shows and

Don’t be afraid to reach out to top caliber artists

live shows.

producers to collaborate with.

What’s the best music advise you’ve been given? Cecil Ramirez - who I met when we recorded

Do you remember your first musical recital?

Waves of Grace. He was an Incredible keyboardist,

Yes, I was an 8th grader junior high school. I had

very gifted and an even better person. He was the

to play a recital before the whole class. At the

one that really shared with me valuable contacts

time, I was taking lessons from the concert flautist

and who to reach out to you to promote the al-

in the San Diego Symphony. He helped me work

bum Waves of Grace. I still look back at that time

really hard on a classical piece. I was encouraged

how important his advice and counsel was during

at how it went. My music instructor told me how

that period of time and it’s amazing to me over a

much my musicianship had grown and was inspir-

decade later that that album still receives airplay

ing!

and recognition. When you write music where does your inspiIf you could change anything about the music

ration come from? I’m inspired by my faith. my

industry, what would it be and why? I would love

beautiful wife Jennifer, and artists I’m blessed to

to bring back the importance of physical prod-

collaborate alongside with. One of my greatest

uct being released instead of downloads and

passions is music; it’s a universal language and

streaming single songs. Dating myself here, but I

impacts so many people. It’s easy to be inspired

loved the time you brought an album home and

when it comes from the heart .

went through all the liner notes and listened to the whole album and it was a listening experience.

What’s the most important aspect of a song? Is it the melody, the groove, or the beat? In Con-

Walk us through a day in your life as an artist?

temporary Jazz it’s all the above. It’s kind of like in

Dreaming, setting goals, practicing my flute, and

baking a cake. What’s your favorite ingredient in

continuing to work on and record the many new

a cake? If you leave out an ingredient it doesn’t

songs I have in my music pipeline. One of my most

come out right. In a song, it’s melody, grooves and

inspirational encouragers for my music was my

the beat.. this is why I think “Shoreline Highway”,

Uncle Mike. Before he passed away unexpectantly

(the title track) “Waves of Grace” and “Seaside” on

late last year we were having dinner and he asked

my album Waves of Grace - have been so suc-

me to play all the songs I was working on. I have

cessful as they include all three items great melo-

quite a few and at the end of the playlist he said

dies, great groove, and a great beat.

”Finish them!” I’m working hard to get them done in his honor!

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Samara Joy Grammys: Samara Joy Wins Best New Artist Born and raised in the Bronx, New York, jazz singer Samara Joy’s 2022 album Linger Awhile won Best Jazz Vocal Album at the pre-Grammy Awards ceremony. With the win, Joy becomes the first jazz singer to win Best New Artist since Esperanza Spalding in 2011. Joy joins recent Best New Artist winners Olivia Rodrigo — who presented the award — Megan Thee Stallion, Billie Eilish, Dua Lipa, and Chance the Rapper. Other previous winners include Sam Smith, Adele, Amy Winehouse, Maroon 5, Alicia Keys, Lauryn Hill, Mariah Carey, and Carrie Underwood. 90

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The American jazz singer won the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition in 2019 and

was named best new artist by Jazz Times for 2021. Samara Joy, a 23-year-old jazz singer from the Bronx, New York, won best new artist at the 2023 Grammy Awards on Sunday night. There were 10 artists nominated in the category, including Anitta, Omar Apollo, Muni Long and Latto. Olivia Rodrigo, who won in the category at last year’s show, presented the award, describing it as “an award that has gone to heroes of mine, from The Beatles to Billie Eilish … It will always be a shining moment in my life.” Upon hearing her name as winner, two-time Grammy nominated Joy was visibly surprised and excited; when accepting the award onstage, she acknowledged the talent in the room, thanking everyone for their contributions to the music industry, saying, “all of you are so inspiring to me.”

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Taylor Swift Arrives at the 65th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday, Feb. 5, 2023, in Los Angeles. Jordan Strauss - invision linkable, Invision

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Beyonce The vocal superstar and pop-culture icon arrived with a field-leading nine nominations — and 28 previous Grammy victories. She left with four more for her 2022 album, “Renaissance,” but not, significantly, for album of the year or record of the year, two categories she has yet to win.

Grammys 2023: Beyoncé makes history, while being shut out of major awards Beyoncé, both the most nominated and one of the most shut-out artists of the Grammys, finally got her flowers on Sunday — sort of. While the singer finally capped her journey to become the winningest musician in the awards’ history, she was once again denied wins in all major categories — losing in song of the year, record of the year and even album of the year. Earlier in the awards season it had already seemed to be something of a repeat of 2017, when music greats Adele and Beyoncé were seen as frontrunners competing head-to-head in all major categories. But as the night crept up, it became clear the 65th Grammys were much more than a two-person horse race. COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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Bonnie Raitt Won the Grammy for song of the year, for “Just Like That.” (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times)

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FOLLOW THE GRAMMY’S www.grammy.com COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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COSTA COFFEE Crafted to be the best. We’ve been crafting the finest quality

methods and com-

coffee for 50 years. From our carefully

mitment to quality

roasted signature blend—chosen after

to unforgettable

the Costa brothers blind-tested 112 varia-

successes that have

tions—to our iconic Flat White and many

made Costa Coffee

other options. We are proud of Costa’s

the Nation’s Favor-

premium coffee offering. After the first

ite* coffee shop, our

sip, you’ll see why Costa is the perfect cup, every time. London, born and blended since 1971 We’ve 50 years’ experience of crafting the finest quality coffee. From revolutionary

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story is as unique as our coffee. But first, let’s start with how every good story should. At the very beginning. The Costa Coffee story began back in 1971

when Sergio and Bruno arrived in London with

ly lively after feeding on the ripe berries from a

a burning desire to make great tasting coffee a

bush later known as an Arabica bush. Kaldi tried

part of everyday life.

the berries himself and started to feel just as

Setting up a small roastery in Fenchurch Street,

uplifted.

they committed to crafting the finest quality coffee.

Local monks quickly learned of Kaldi’s discovery

It was here the Costa brothers blind-tested 112

and tried the berries for themselves. They found

variations of coffee before they tasted one good

that the unusual berries helped them stay awake

enough to be our signature blend. They named it

and energized during long periods of prayer. And

‘Mocha Italia’ and it remains our signature blend

they also discovered that if they crushed and in-

to this day.

fused the ‘magical’ berries with cold water, they

The discovery of coffee

could enjoy them as a drink. It wasn’t until much later, between 1000AD and

There are several tales of how coffee was first

1200AD, that people tried roasting and crushing the seeds of the coffee cherry (the ‘magic’ berries) and infusing them with hot water. It made a delicious drink, more like the coffee of today.

Inspiring the world to love great coffee We have always worked hard to bring new coffee experiences to our customers. From the opening of the brothers’ first coffee boutique in the 1980s, innovation has flowed through every aspect and era of Costa Coffee. We were the first coffee providers in London serving our coffee in porcelain cups; we were the first coffee shop chain to introduce the Flat White in the UK and, with our Express machines, we were the first to bring coffee shop quality coffee to convenience stores and roadsides across the UK. And we’re not stopping there. Our signature enjoyed, but the most popular one dates back to

blend has stood the test of time and we’re proud

850AD and an Ethiopian goat herder called Kaldi.

to have been voted the UK’s favourite coffee shop* for the 12th consecutive year!

One day, Kaldi noticed his goats being especial-

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The Nation’s Favourite Coffee Shop | Costa Coffee

Flat White

Rich and good-looking An expert combination of rich espresso and velvety milk, signed off with a beautiful florette handcrafted by your barista.

Latte

Loved by everyone We combine our signature espresso with a creamy milk or dairy alternative of your choice for the ideal drink to sip when it’s served hot or cold.

Cappuccino Famously frothy

A special treat made out of intense espresso, foamed milk and decadent chocolate dusting, if that’s how you like it. Enjoy it hot or ice cold.

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Espresso

Short, dark and handsome The heartbeat of all our coffees. It begins with our Espresso. We craft one simple shot of our intense roast for the most elegant of drinks.

www.us.costacoffee.com

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Shades of

Elegance THE COMPANY

As one of the world’s leading luxury womenswear brands, ESCADA stands for modern elegance, cool glamour, and sensual femininity. The brand, founded in 1978 by Margaretha and Wolfgang Ley, provides a distinct sense of refined quality, workmanship, and excellent fit and is characterized by color, print, and the love for detail. Under the two product lines, ESCADA and ESCADA SPORT, the brand offers its customers a lifestyle concept for dressing, filled with everything from must-have daywear for business and leisure to glamorous evening wear. Apart from ready-to-wear, shoes and bags, the product range offers ESCADA fragrances, eyewear, watches and jewelry. The ESCADA Group operates in 24 countries throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. With around 1,100 points of sale, ESCADA is present in 80 countries worldwide.

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HISTORY HOW IT ALL BEGAN In 1978, Margaretha and Wolfgang Ley presented their first collection under the name “ESCADA & Sporty Elegance“. This event laid the foundation for a new business idea that was as simple as it was successful: the „democratization“ of elite haute couture. ESCADA offered: top quality in fabrics, fit and workmanship at affordable prices; sophisticated, imaginative design and extremely comfortable wear; a coordinate system with individual components that were perfectly color-coordinated to allow mixing & matching through several seasons. Margaretha Ley, a former Swedish model, had a solid education in tailoring and ample experience with demanding customers. But she also had an exquisite feel for colors, a devotion to detail, and a sure sense for what many women desired - feminine elegance that doesn’t shy away from bright contrasts and striking elements. Bold color combinations, opulent embroideries, combinations of patterns, and leopard prints endowed ESCADA’s early creations with a touch of irrepressible joie de vivre. This fashion style was exactly in tune with the extroverted spirit of the 1980s.

www.us.escada.com

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DESIGN COMPETENCE ESCADA first created spectacular knitwear designs that featured exquisite inlays and appliqués on pullovers and jackets. These earned Margaretha Ley the renowned international Mohair Council for Excellence in Design award and were soon followed by cleverly elaborate leather prints that became all the rage with both merchants and customers. The collections kept getting larger, and the designer team grew with them. Twelve different fashion themes per season, each based on a wide range of different fabrics, were designed to ensure a diversity of styles for individual markets. By this point, the most sought-after Italian and French textiles manufacturers and silk printing companies were working for ESCADA. And weaving and spinning mills as well as Europe’s most innovative printers were developing proprietary threads, fabrics and ESCADA colors for the company. With her very feminine, breathtakingly glamorous cocktail and evening fashions, ESCADA created the distinctive look that has shaped the brand image. The ESCADA collection soon included not only a very exclusive couture line but also an extensive range of accessories such as shoes, bags, small leather accessories and costume jewelry.

THE 90’s The most beautiful supermodels, such as Claudia Schiffer, Linda Evangelista, Cindy Crawford, Christy Turlington, Naomi Campbell, Karen Mulder, Paulina Porizkova, Nadja Auermann and Rachel Zimmermann, presented the world of ESCADA in elaborately designed catalogs and ad campaigns, and film stars and other celebrities were frequently seen wearing ESCADA. After Margaretha Ley’s death in 1992, Brian Rennie was appointed as creative director in 1994. Rennie managed the rejuvenation of the brand and its adaptation to the more low-key look of the 1990s, also by launching the ESCADA SPORT line. The brand regained its power with a colorful and sensual „New Elegance“ feel as a playful expression of joie de vivre. In 1998, Hollywood Star Kim Basinger accepted her Oscar in a pistachio-colored satin gown by ESCADA Couture, reconfirming the brand’s international high-class image. By this point, the most sought-after Italian and French

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textiles manufacturers and silk printing companies were working for ESCADA. And weaving and spinning mills as well as Europe’s most innovative printers were developing proprietary threads, fabrics and ESCADA colors for the company. With her very feminine, breathtakingly glamorous cocktail and evening fashions, ESCADA created the distinctive look that has shaped the brand image. The ESCADA collection soon included not only a very exclusive couture line but also an extensive range of accessories such as shoes, bags, small leather accessories and costume jewelry.

ESCADA TODAY Today ESCADA has interpreted its brand values in a new, updated way: cool glamour, sensual femininity and modern elegance are the hallmarks of the ESCADA brand line. ESCADA stands for fashion dressing women appropriately for every occasion. The brand offers a lifestyle concept filled with everything from must-have everyday items for business and leisure to red carpet occasions. The ESCADA woman is naturally drawn to the limelight and loves a feminine and glamorous yet fresh, modern style. The ESCADA SPORT line today represents creative casual wear for sexy, dynamic women with a youthful spirit who love an easy, uncomplicated and relaxed chic. The collection focuses on knitwear, jersey, outerwear and denim and offers items that can be mixed and matched. Exclusive, enchanting color palettes highlight seasonal trends and prints in every collection. Innovative fabrics, high quality detailing and embroideries as well as excellent fit and exclusive workmanship reinforce the high-end level of all ESCADA collections.

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The LA Jazz Scene’s Best Kept Secret Sam First is a jazz club and cocktail bar, a few minutes’ walk from the LAX terminals. Featuring serious drinks, local beers and fine wines, spectacular first-class lounge-of-yourdreams styling, and world-class modern and straight-ahead. It’s First is a piano bar in Hawthorne where you might catch a live album recording on a random Friday night. Right around the corner from LAX, this jazz spot hosts weekly shows with big names in the jazz world like Christopher Mcbride and the LA Jazz Quartet. It’s the kind of swanky spot where you can recline on a leather bench with a Negroni in-hand, snack on charcuterie, and get cozy with a hot date. On most nights, you’ll need a ticket to enjoy the show. But even if you forget to book ahead of time, they’re usually selling spots at the door.

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Artist Spotlight

Mekiel Reuben M

Saxophonist

ekiel Reuben Musician, Compos-

St. Croix with jazz woodwinds player James

Chicago born native, Mekiel be-

Duke Ellington Orchestra. Mekiel says, “I used

er, Producer, Recording Artist The

came interested in music at the early age of eight when his mom gave him a guitar for

Christmas. At the age of 15 he began studying music and woodwinds under Louis Gray, Crane High School band director. His first

performance was at the high school graduation. At this time, he says he was being

greatly influenced by Grover Washington Jr., The Crusaders, Earth, Wind & Fire and Stevie Wonder. At the age of 18 he moved to the Caribbean where he continued to pursue

his musical career. He studied privately in

(Jimmy) Hamilton, a 27-year veteran of the to watch Hamilton perform from the back

of the restaurant where I worked” (Guthries

Holger Danske Hotel). They became buddies and he began taking sax lesson. Hamilton

taught him the “Art of Reservation” how to

enhance his playing style; he said you don’t have to play a lot of notes to get your point across. Mekiel also studied jazz with Benny Jacob El, a graduate of Juilliard School of Music. While living in St. Croix, he learned

calypso, reggae, and other Latin and Carib-

bean rhythms. After several years of working and playing with several theatrical/dance

companies in the U.S. Virgin Islands, Mekiel returned to the United States following his

dream of becoming a recording artist, and resided in Los Angeles, California. He con-

tinued his music studies with the legendary saxophonist Bill Greene (improvisation lessons).

He also studied music and marketing at Los Angeles City College and West Los Angeles

City College. From 1986-1994 he worked with local Reggae backup bands in the Los An-

geles area and worked with artists such as,

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The Itals, Johnny Clark, Daddy Uroy, Leroy

Smart, Marcia Griffin, and Ras Michael and the sons of Niegus just to mention a few.

1998 his band was the backup band for Legendary Blues Icon Barbara Morrison.

While a member of Ras Michael and the

From 2000 -2004 he worked with icon reg-

album “Know Now” on Shanachie Records

touring band and participated in numer-

sons of Niegus for 5 years they recorded the (1989). He participated in several Reggae gigs and festivals and one of the biggest

Reggae festivals of Los Angeles was “Bob

Marley Day” at least 6x’s with several art-

ists. In 1994 he started his own record label

MekMuse Records after years of writing over a hundred songs and tunes and now has

several album releases to his credit. In 1995 he began to work with the Hank Robinson

Group (Black Business Directory Los Ange-

les) Jazz series from Rosarito Mexico to Palm Springs, CA. At a venue in Rosarito, Mexico

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gae artist Eek-A-Mouse U.S. west coast

ous gigs and festivals across the U.S. west

coast including 2002 Utah Olympic festival. From 2002-2004 Mekiel worked as a side-

man with the legendary “Ike Turner and the Kings of Rhythm” and toured Europe and North America as a performer in several

Blues and Jazz festivals. He participated in

the North Seas Jazz fest, Netherlands, Ajaccio Blues fest, Corsica, Pori Jazz fest, Fin-

land, Nice Jazz fest, Cognac Blues Passion, France, San Diego Blues fest, Long Beach

Blues fest, California, USA, Edmonton Blues

concert venues throughout North America (United States and Canada) and Europe

featuring acts such as Bunny Wailer, Ziggy

Marley, Maxi Priest, Third World, Steel Pulse, Inner Circle , Burning Spear, UB 40, Lenny

Williams, Barbara Morrison, Ronnie Laws, The Jazz Crusaders, Les McCann, Marcus Miller,

Chaka Khan, Gino Vannelli, Dr. John, Tyrone

Davis, Etta James, Phil Perry, George Clinton and the P-Funk All Stars and a host of oth-

ers. In 2006 at the Temecula Valley Interna-

tional Film and Music Festival he received an award for TOP MUSIC ARTIST from out of over 400 entries. For over two decades, when he

is not on tour or performing, he has brought

great joy to disabled students by dedicating his talent and time at the Benjamin Ban-

neker Special Education Center in Los Angeles. Mekiel now resides in St Croix, US Virgin

Islands where he performs and continue to produce music for the world.

So keep your eyes open and ears tuned for

this musician / producer / composer, Mekiel Reuben, to be the next new rising artist. You can Google “Mekiel Reuben” and find

his music on most digital platforms; Spodify. com, Amazon.com, Soundcloud.com, iTunes. com, Applemusic.com and YouTube.com fest, Canada and Montreux jazz fest., Swit-

zerland, where they recorded the album, Live at Montreux “ The Resurrection of Ike Turn-

er and the Kings of Rhythm,” on the French label - Isabel Records - Blues Power series

(M Williams-tenor sax). He has shared stages with many musicians on festivals and

etc. D I S C O G R A P H Y/ MekMuse Records releases (1994) Miles Away (a dedication

to Miles Davis) (out of print) (1996) Simply Peaceful (2000) Shadows of Love (2005)

Hangin in the Moonlight (2009) Cookin’ in East L.A. (2012) If you were here Tonight

(2019) M.R. Mekiel Reuben (2020) Chances

Are What They Are (2023) Just like the Radio.

Connect

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Q A &

With Mekiel Reuben

What is your practice routine like? Mekiel

What is a C Melody Saxophone? I don’t know

Now days I practice 2- 3 x a week depends

read on Wikipedia they are rare instrument

Reuben Artist Spotlight Questioner

on what’s going on if I have a few gigs then I practice the set list for the gig since I’ve

been working a solo act I learn or add 1-2 new songs to my playlist on the next gig.

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much about the C melody other than what I

and it is larger than an alto and smaller than a tenor and they concert key and also F. What brands of saxophone are best?

It depends on what level

where a person is in their

career or studies. I started

with a Selma Bundy alto and now I play Selma Mark7 Alto, Yanagisawa Tenor and so-

prano saxophone. They have so many brands of saxo-

phones that great players

make almost any functioning horn sound good.

When did you fall in love with music?

I fell in love with music at 8

years when my mom bought me a guitar for Christmas that year.

What is your favorite song

to perform?

I enjoy playing a lot of tunes

so to have a favorite is hard to say for in-

Qn. What is the best advice you have been

don’t have you” Whitney Houston , I enjoy

ing on your craft by my close friends and

love playing “If only for one night” Luther

want to learn music and play an instrument

stance I love playing“ I have nothing If I

given? I was always told to just keep work-

playing Loving You By Minnie Ripperton , I

family but the best advice was If you really

Vandross.

“The only one who can stop you is you, so do

Which famous musicians do you admire?

love and enjoy you will never work hard a

what you need to do and if it something you

Grover Washington Jr. Gerald Albright, Ste-

day in your life”

bands Earth Wind & Fire, Kool & the Gang

What is the most common saxophone to

and whoever is creating great music

learn on? Alto Saxophone

What is the note range on a saxophone?

What musical team of producers would

B flat to high F regular fingering but there

Brown, Peter White, Quincy Jones, Kevin

vie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Prince and

Note range on the saxophone goes from low are other fingering techniques that allow

you most like to collaborate with? Norman

Flournoy, Gerald Albright.

you to play higher octave on the sax

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Well Traveled Enchanting Destination

Looking for fun things to do in Scottsdale? You’re in the right place! Here you’ll find the inside scoop on Scottsdale’s top attractions and activities, from aquariums and architectural wonders to botanical gardens, wine tasting rooms and award-winning museums. Whether you have a few hours or a few days to explore, these are the activities you won’t want to miss!

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MAIOUCDONAL’S RANCH Located on 1,280 acres of pristine Sonoran desert, is Scottsdale’s premier horseback riding and western adventure operation. Activities for small parties, large groups or corporate gatherings; cookout sites; guided horseback rides, hayrides and stagecoach rides. Cowboy Cookouts available to the public to reserve from November through May! The staff are professional wranglers and guides with years of experience, insuring your enjoyment and safety. We will customize services and amenities to fit most any situation. It’s pace is is family friendly. We can accommodate the youngest of children with our petting zoo, kid play area, and old west games. Just minutes from most Valley resorts, hotels and airports.

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LDV Winery was my first vineyard experience and the one that hooked me on Arizona wine. Their estate vineyard and winery sit at the foothills of the Chiricahua Mountains in Pearce, at an elevation of 5000’. Nice for us, owners

Peggy Fiandaca and Curt Dunham opened their tasting room in Old Town Scottsdale. Sustainable, gluten-free and vegan, their wine flights are three 2-oz. pours and can be customized to your liking. Enjoy the freshly made charcuterie or wine pairing snacks. Listen to the monthly podcast, “Wine Time with Peggy”, to learn more about the art of wine and food.

Jenelle’s Pairing Tip: I love the full-bodied, fruit-forward flavor of LDV’s 2015 Signature Petite Sirah. Pair it with hearty, flavorful foods – like your favorite sausage and pepperoni pizza – to balance the tannins in your glass. This vintage was a Double Gold winner in the 2022 San Francisco Chronicle Wine Competition.

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WHAT TO PACK FOR A TRIP TO SCOTTSDALE ACCOMMODATIONS WRITER

By local contributor: KATAOIRINA KOVACEVIC

Scottsdale definitely knows how to dress it up, but its overall resort casual vibe is a fit for travelers of all types.

It’s best to pack an array of options, so read on for our expert tips. And, if you forget anything, there’s no need to fret. We’ve outlined where to find all the goods locally. In fact, you may want to leave behind a thing or two. It’s the perfect excuse to go shopping!

Staying at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess? Take in the thrill of a firework show against a vibrant Sonoran Desert backdrop every Saturday Night Until Christimas Eve.

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COFFEETALK JazzMEDIA CoffeeTalk Media Los Angeles is an award-winning top-rated digital music marketing agency www.coffeetalkjazz.com

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Jazz Hot Spots

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Your Experience Awaits Planning your next convention event is only a few steps awaym three-minute walk from the Los Angeles convention center walking distance to Jw Marriott, Ritz-Carlton Courtyard

Marriott, Residence inn Marriott, Hotel Indigo, Luxe city center and Hotel Figueroa Privately owned and non-union 15,000 square feet of customizable event space for events with 25 to 1,000 guests exclusive wolfgang puck catering - state of the art lighting, audio and visual turnkey features inclusive of furniture groupings, projection capabilities and limitless branding.

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Arrangements that make a Sstatement Our most luxurious and stately eternity flower arrangements and gifts. Add grandeur to any space with these perfect gifts for her,

gifts for him, birthday presents, wedding anniversary gifts, or selfcare gifts.

Need assistance? Our concierge team is here to assist. Whether you have questions regarding our products, shipping, returns,

product care, or a past order, our team is here to provide you with

support. If you have questions about our eternity florals, please be sure to review our eternity flowers FAQ for more information.

Need assistance? Our concierge team is here to assist. Whether you have questions regarding our products, shipping, returns,

product care, or a past order, our team is here to provide you with

support. If you have questions about our eternity florals, please be sure to review our eternity flowers FAQ for more information.

Customer Service Mon - Fri: 8am - 9pm EST

Sat & Sun: 9am- 6pm EST Email:: info@venusetfleur.com

Phone Number: 1-800-808-9830 Website: www.venusetfleur.com

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CoffeeTalk Jazz Shop

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It is official Coffee Talk JAZZ Radio and Magazine continues touching the WORLD through jazz. Our fan shop has a delightful selection of t-shirt ap-

parel merchandise for Men, Women and Kids. You will see musicians and artists around the globe wearing their CoffeeTalk T-shirts.

SHOP NOW

Place your single or bulk order now for your next group event. Send your shopping inquiry to CoffeeTalkJazzRadio@msn.com for a quick response or send a text to (562) 544-8102 with your order. S - M - L - XL - $35.00 each, plus shipping.

SHOP WITH CONFIDENCE www.coffeetalkjazz.com/shop COFFEETALKJAZZ JAZZMAGAZINE MAGAZINE COFFEETALK

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www.thebakedpotato.com

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The Baked Potato Jazz Club has been the home venue for some of the greatest musicians since 1970. The world famous Baked Potato Jazz club offers stellar music nightly and great food. We invite you to buy tickets to one of our upcoming events and experience the LA Jazz Music Scene for yourself, and see some of the greatest musicians since 1970. The world famous Baked Potato Jazz club offers stellar music nightly and great food. We invite you to buy tickets to one of our upcoming events and experience the LA Jazz Music Scene for yourself. COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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Coffee Talk Jazz Radio show

Have you heard? We have an ear for music, and we are touching the world through jazz. We interview music storytellers from every corner of the globe celebrating the latest and greatest talents of the contemporary music scene. Sit back and relax enjoy all the commentary with award-winning host, author, media personality Bridgette Lewis.

www.blogtalkradio.com/coffeetalkjazz

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Well Traveled

Enchanting Destination

WELCOME TO SAN FRANCISCO Whether you’re a first visitor or long-time local, San Francisco’s Golden Gate welcomes all. This is the place to find out about all things San Francisco, and how you can safely experience the best of the city. Our Gate is Open, and we can’t wait to welcome you!

The Golden Gate Bridge is a suspension bridge spanning the Golden Gate, the one-mile-

wide strait connecting San Francisco Bay and the Pacific Ocean. The structure links the U.S.

city of San Francisco, California—the northern tip of the San Francisco Peninsula—to Marin County, carrying both U.S. Route 101 and California State Route 1 across the strait. It also car-

ries pedestrian and bicycle traffic, and is designated as part of U.S. Bicycle Route 95. Being declared one of the Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engi-

neers, the bridge is one of the most internationally recognized symbols of San Francisco and California. It was initially designed by engineer Joseph Strauss in 1917. The bridge was named for the Golden Gate strait, the channel that it spans.

The Walt Disney Family Museum is an American museum that features the life and legacy of Walt Disney. The museum is located in The Presidio of San Francisco, part of the Golden

Gate National Recreation Area in San Francisco. The museum retrofitted and expanded three existing historic buildings on the Presidio’s Main Post. The principal building, at 104 Montgomery Street, faces the Parade Ground, and opened on October 1, 2009.

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• • • • •

HIGHLIGHTS

See the sights of San Francisco as you explore at your own pace Hear the history and hidden stories of the city with entertaining digital audio Cross the Golden Gate Bridge aboard a double-decker bus Take in sweeping views of San Francisco Bay Explore historic neighborhoods such as Fisherman’s Wharf and Haight-Ashbury

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NAPA AND SONOMA WINE COUNTRY FULL-DAY TOUR

“San Francisco is a top destination for food travelers who flock to sites like Fisherman’s Wharf, Chinatown and the Ferry Building. Many, including us, consider San Francisco to be one of the best food cities in America.”

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Spruce San Francisco restaurant

Spruce’s decor is about as posh as San Francisco restaurant interiors get: Elegant without being stuffy, expect white tablecloths, leather chairs, a marbled bar, and dark tones, all under a cathedral ceiling. Even the liquor bottles are organized by color. The food is Californian cuisine through and through (try the spiced duck breast roasted to perfection, served with fennel marmalade, roasted beats, and pears).

Empress By Boon—from Malaysia-born Michelin-starred Chef Ho Chee Boon Opened its doors in June 2021, debuting a fully restored interior that modernizes the historic Empress of China space while keeping some of its original woodwork. Chef Ho presents a prix fixe menu at a startingly reasonable rate of $98, as well as a separate small bites menu that’s served in a trendy bar area. The menu focuses on modern takes on traditional Cantonese fare prepared with local ingredients, many from the restaurant’s own organic farm in Gilroy, California. 134

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The Cable Cars Are Back! There is nothing quite like riding a cable car up and down the hills of San Francisco. While they symbolize the early innovation that made the city iconic, the experience of riding a cable car is timeless. The cable car experience starts while waiting at the cable car turnarounds (at Powell or at California and Market Streets) or along the routes, waiting for the cable cars to approach. Once you hop on the cable car, you can either find a seat or hold on to the handles as you hang on for the ride. The cable car gripmen handle the grips to move the cars. And let’s not forget about the cable car bell ringing. You can hear it from blocks away. It’s used to get the attention of intersecting traffic. COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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Today we’d like to introduce you to Ran Zimon. So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story. I started baking in the year 2000 in my home country Israel. In 2007, I came for a visit in LA and so a lack of local bread bakeries. I decided to stay, and in 2010 I opened the Bread Lounge in the Art District Downtown. It started as a wholesale bakery, supplying local restaurants, and in mid-2012 we opened our cafe at the same location, where we are serving fresh bread & pastries, sandwiches salads and more.

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Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome? Like every small business starting up, there are many challenges along the way. Starting with the build out of the space, figuring our operation, employees, and the list goes on. But with hard work, good friends and luck, you keep ongoing.

Please tell us about Bread Lounge. We are specializing in European style bread and pastries. Our bakery/cafe in Downtown is open to the public seven days a week, and we supply baked goods to restaurants and coffee shops in LA and the surrounding areas. We are staying true to the art and tradition of baking, and even today each loaf COFFEETALK JAZZ MAGAZINE

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of bread we bake is made by hand. All of our breads are vegan and contain three basic ingredients; flour water and salt. We use natural yeast that we grow in our bakery, made of flour and water. What I am most proud of is the fact that today ten years after I started the Bakery, we are producing the same quality product and giving our customers exceptional customer service. That is all thanks to our amazing team, who cares about what they do, we love what we do, and we care about our customers.

Do you look back particularly fondly on any memories from childhood? Playing outside, its something you don’t see much these days in a big city like Los Angeles.

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Fashion Forward Red Carpet To Reality Let’s be real: When it comes to red carpet looks, they might completely wow us, but they don’t always translate well into real life.

“We don’t just talk we CoffeeTalk” CoffeeTalk Jazz Magazine is a national subscription-lifestyle music publication offering a curated guide to Music, fashion, beauty, health, philanthropy, arts and culture, cuisine, celebrities, and entertainment.

www.stylewe.com

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Shop for Women’s Clothing StyleWe is an online fashion shopping platform featuring independent fashion designers. We are committed to providing shoppers with original, high quality, and exclusive fashion products from individual designers.

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L.A.’s Premiere Live Jazz and Dining Experience Herb Alpert’s Vibrato Grill is L.A.’s Premiere Live Jazz and Dining Experience managed by business partner and daughter, Eden Alpert. Vibrato offers world-class music and outstanding contemporary American cuisine. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a night of Live music, expertly prepared cuisine, and incredible cocktails in a sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere. Live Entertainment, Every Night. Vibrato Grill hosts some music talents in the world, Whether you’re hanging out at the bar celebrating your special occasion at one of your sweethearts’ tables, or just having a fun night out with friends, there will always be top-quality live music playing to make it and evening to remember.

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Holy Trinity of Hollywood Jazz Clubs Catalina is often referred to as a member of the “Holy Trinity of Hollywood Jazz Clubs” (along with The Baked Potato and Herb Albert’s), and it’s not difficult to see why. Stumble into this iconic Sunset Blvd. club any night of the week, and there’s a decent shot you’ll catch one of the best jazz musicians in the country doing a live set. Despite being located underneath a nondescript office building, the acoustics in the room are fantastic and the intimate space means there really isn’t a bad room in the house. Reservations are recommended for big acts, and if you show up hungry, there’s a large menu filled with salads, pastas, and big plates of meat.

www.catalinajazzclub.com

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www.facebook.com/CoffeeTalkJazz/

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Well Traveled

Enchanting Destination

Cabo San Lucas, Mexico abo San Lucas, a resort city on the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja California peninsula, is known for its beaches, water-based activities, and nightlife. Playa El Médano is Cabo’s main beach, with outdoor restaurants and numerous bars. Past the marines Land’s End promontory, site of Playa del Amor (Lover’s Beach) and El Arco, a natural archway in the sea cliffs. Cabo San Lucas Cabo San Lucas is a bustling hub for sport fishermen, cruise ships, handicraft vendors, water sport aficionados and nightlife seekers. Best known for its golden shores, celebrity sightings and nightlife, but that only scratches the surface of this enchanting destination. With farm-to-table dining options, world-class golf courses, natural wonders and historic neighborhoods, this town on the southernmost tip of the Baja Peninsula is more than a mere sun-and-sand getaway spot within the larger Los Cabos area. Those seeking an exciting day on the water, an unforgettable dining experience or a legendary night out will love all the activities, sights and sounds downtown Cabo San Lucas has to offer. Don’t be fooled by the dreamy shore views this is the furthest thing from a sleepy seaside town. Nightlife, Dining, Water Sports.

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The area is considered the second fastest growing resort destination in all of Mexico and particularly busy with visitors during the winter high season, November to February.

San Jose del Cabo, the “Old Town”, which is nearest to the airport. San Jose has old Mexico charm and some shining new resorts. Cabo San Lucas, the “Main Town”, which is 20-some miles from the airport, and the entertainment hub of Cabo. The famous arch is in Cabo San Lucas. The Corridor, the highway which connects San Jose and Cabo San Lucas, which is now lined with golf courses, condos and resorts situated along the coastline. By night, Cabo San Lucas is one of the hottest party towns in Mexico with a glittering nightlife and a plethora of dining options that make energetic Cabo San Lucas an all-time favorite. Also called Cabo San “Loco” or just plain “Cabo”, the town’s reputation as the wild party center of the Baja Peninsula has brought fame and infamy to its many bars and nightclubs. Friday: Indulge in the Beauty and Glamour of Cabo Start your day in Cabo at an off-the-beaten-path breakfast spot — El Pancake House — that locals love. Pancakes are the obvious draw, but regulars rave about the arrachera al albañil (“bricklayer tacos”), tortilla azteca and fresh-pressed juices.

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Weekend Getaways

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Well Traveled

Enchanting Destination

Barbados Barbados Culture

Barbados is an island in the east of the Caribbean, which is well-known for its incredible array of tropical destinations. Some of the other popular Caribbean destinations that are close to Barbados include St Lucia and St Vincent and the Grenadines.

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posh amenities of our all-suite, all-inclusive Caribbean resort an unprecedented level of extravagance, elevated to new heights by our award-winning Sky PoolSuites, Swim-up Suites, and Millionaire Suites. It’s an exceptional resort in Barbados including the first rooftop pool and restaurant, as well as a 4-lane bowling alley and craft beer bar. Sandals Royal experience the opulence and unrivaled services of the most exclusive all-inclusive.

Experience the epitome of elegant luxury, where extraordinary innovations and sublime indulgences abound. Jet-setters flock to Barbados for the sheer sophistication combined with unrivaled elegance. The 158

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Barbados Food and Rum Festival

Local chefs and mixologists are joined by international celebrity chefs to create exciting culinary delights during the annual Barbados Food and Rum Festival!

Island Treasure Barbados!

Beautiful Barbados, our tropical paradise With grilled fish in Oistins, the food is nice A Caribbean gem the place for leisure See Harrison’s Cave our national treasure. Enjoy our white sands, our sea and sun Pure Bajan hospitality for everyone Barbados is the place to go When you want to get away from the snow. It’s the island of culture and flying fish Stand on any boardwalk and make a wish As you gaze into the ocean blue And feel the cool breeze flowing back at you. Visit the rum factory at Foursquare Find a village shop, grab a Banks beer

A scenic drive you will love the most When you cruise the south, east or west coast. If you are religious and want to worship You will find a church in every district Bajan energy is so profound Whether at the Gold cup or at Kensington ground. Kadooment Day is a real big hit Pure Bajan culture will rock your ship! Crop Over time will leave you spell-bound Lots of action for you to get around. Bad experiences are far and few Tourist life is great, we cater just for you Your visit to Bim you will not regret Beautiful Barbados you will never forget. Writer Author: Dereko Toikg

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k You To my two assistants Kathryn and Corry. You have been my voice when I couldn’t answer all the over-flowing telephone calls or get to e-mails fast enough. I appreciate you both. To the CoffeeTalk teamL Kimibli, Timothy, Laim, Gebel, and Grace you all are simply the best. To my photographers: Dylan, Stoll, and Lordsi, your laser sharp eye and keen focus always capture artists and events in the best light. To my open-minded and creative story telling editors Sandi and Chloe always here for us. Eloise and Dr. Taylor, part of our fabulous marketing and legal team your enthusiasm, experience and tell-it-like it-personalities fit right in. To the fabulous artist, and musicians, who boldly share their talent and artistry where we would be without. To our graphic design team Andrew, Marsol and Jacob putting together each colorful part of CoffeeTalk Jazz Magazine is always a celebration. To our advertisers who help to keep our readers informed making our magazine project sensational, thank you.

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Radio Jazz

Coffee Talk

Who We Are For 16 years CoffeeTalk Radio has successfully introduced, promoted, and marketed indie artist, music icons, legends and Women in music in the first stages of their careers and seasoned veterans looking for a fresh start using radio, movies, magazine, and television. We are ready to collaborate with you. The CoffeeTalk team offers the best organic promotional music marketing services with six budget friendly options. Ready to gain more visibility? We can help! Working with the CoffeeTalk team is a fantastic opportunity to gain added exposure.

Music Marketing and Promotions www.coffeetalkjazz.com

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CoffeeTalk Jazz Magazine April 2023

Articles inside

MAIOUCDONAL’S RANCH

QA & With

Spotlight Artist Mekiel Reuben Saxophonist

DESIGN COMPETENCE

EleganceShades of

COSTA COFFEE

Beyonce

Samara Joy

Eric Evans QA & With

New Single Release! ODE TO JOY - The Eric Evans Project

QA & With Bennie J. Smith

Bennie J. Smith Spotlight Artist

PROGRESSIVE JACKPOTS

Fun. Games. Entertainment.

LA’s Original Artisan Coffee –Sharing Knowledge & Fine Taste Since 2006

OUR PHILOSOPHY

The world is full of beauty,

About Berklee

NEW SINGLE Announcement!

Olivér Magán Keyboards

Bass

EDITOR’S NOTE