Smooth Style - Magazine of Europe's only Smooth Jazz Festivals by smooth entertainment GmbH

Magazine of the Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival on 26. September - 1. October 2017 at Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa

INTERNATIONAL ARTIST LINE-UP feat. Platinum CD sellers, Grammy winners & nominees, No.1 hit and album chart breakers and many more

6 Days 10 Artists 11 Shows

2. Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival At Vila Vita Parc Resort & Spa in Porches

Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s Soul, Funk & Jazz Party at the Atlantic Ocean

Festival Partner & Imprint

Apresentado por: / Präsentiert von: / Presented by:

Patrocinadores / Sponsoren / Sponsors

Mídia associada / Medienpartner / Media Partner

Impressão Impressum Imprint Editor / Herausgeber / Editor smooth entertainment GmbH, Perzheimstraße 48, D86150 Augsburg Tel. +49 (0)821 2292711, Fax +49 (0)821 2292712 info@smoothentertainment.de www.smoothentertainment.de Equipa editorial / Redaktion / Editorial Staff: Sandra Hoﬀmann, Christian Bössner Gerente de Projeto / Projektleiter / Project Manager: Christian Bössner Layout / Gestaltung / Layout: blueORANGEblue mediengestaltung Vendas de anúncios / Anzeigenverkauf / Ad Sales: Christian Bössner Data de publicação / Erscheinungstermin / Date of publication: 8/2017 Não nos responsabilizamos pelos detalhes informativos que nos foram providenciados. Alle Angaben trotz sorgfältiger Bearbeitung ohne Gewähr. No responsibility is taken for the correctness of the details provided. Foto de capa / Titelfoto / Cover photo: Lori Stoll

Conteúdo Inhalt Content Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival Intro .........................................................................................................................3 Saudação / Begrüßung / Salutation ............................................................4 Programa do festival / Festivalprogramm / Festival program ............5 Artistas / Künstler / Artists John Stoddart | Brian Culbertson.............................................................6 | 7 Larry Braggs | Kirk Whalum ........................................................................8 | 9 Jackiem Joyner | Paul Brown.................................................................10 | 11 Paul Jackson, Jr. | Richard Elliot ............................................................12 | 13 Tom Braxton | Keiko Matsui...................................................................14 | 15 Featured musicians ..........................................................................................16 Localização / Location / Location VILA VITA Parc Resort & Spa ..........................................................................20 Smooth Lifestyle Review Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 .............................................22 Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 ...........................................24 CD Sugestões / CD-Tipps / CD Reviews .....................................................30 Upcoming Smooth Jazz Festivals ...............................................................31

Intro | Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival

Welcome to the 2nd one! Estão prontos para a 2.ª edição do nosso ALGArVE SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL? Então sigamnos até à região mais a sul da Europa, para a costa atlântica portu guesa, às espectaculares formações rochosas do Algarve. No final de Setembro vamos abrir as portas de um pequeno paraíso: Este refúgio de 5 estrelas, o Vila Vita Parc, estendese por um parque subtropical de 22 hectares, que se ergue sobran ceiro sobre as falésias junto ao mar. Este resort, membro do “The Leading Hotels of the World”, situase em Alporchinhos, Porches, e tem muito para oferecer – entre outros 170 quartos, suites e villas, distribuídos em vários edifícios construídos em estilo mourisco. Juntamse ainda restaurantes e bares, na qual são feitas degusta ções de vinhos vintages, entre outros. O vinho da casa, o VILA VITA, é produzido na “Herdade dos Grous”, propriedade do VILA VITA Parc. No âmbito do nosso festival vamos ainda efetuar uma visita a esta propriedade de 730 hectares. Este é, mais uma vez, um alinhamento de excelente qualidade e diversidade. Para aqueles a quem ainda sobre energia, o VILA VITA Parc dispõe de uma variedade de possi bilidades para se divertirem, relaxarem ou praticarem desportos, para além dos nossos concertos e do programa adicional. Para mais informações sobre o nosso programa, consulte por favor a página seguinte.

Are you ready for the 2nd edition of our ALGARVE SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL? Then follow us to the southern end of Europe, to the Portuguese Atlantic coast, to the spectacular rock formations of the Algarve. At the end of September, we are going to open the gates of a small paradise: The 5-star hideaway Vila Vita Parc extends on a 22-hectare, subtropical park, which sits directly on the seaside cliffs. The member of “The Leading Hotels of the World” is located in Armação de Pêra (Porches) and has much to offer – among others 170 rooms, suites and villas, which are housed in various Moorish-style buildings. In addition, it has restaurants and bars, where VILA VITA Parc proffers its wine. It is grown and bottled on the VILA VITA owned estate “Herdade dos Grous”. As a part of our additional festival programme, we will visit the 730-hectare property. Other features in our additional program see next page. The festival line-up, we put together, is high-class and varied again. And to all those who are looking for more than an additional program and concerts VILA VITA Parc offers a wide variety of options to make the most of their time, whether it is to relax, do sports etc. Sandra & Christian

Algarve 2017 is the 19th Smooth Jazz Festival europe-wide presented by the music travel organizers Sandra Hoﬀmann and Christian Bössner.

Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival | Salutation

Images: Christian Nordström

Seid Ihr bereit für die zweite Ausgabe unseres ALGARVE SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL? Dann kommt mit uns ans südlichste Ende Europas, an die portugiesische Atlantikküste, an die spektakuläre Felsenwelt der Algarve. Hier öffnen wir Ende September die Pforten eines kleinen Paradieses: Das 5-Sterne-Hideaway Vila Vita Parc erstreckt sich auf einem 22 Hektar großen, subtropischen Park, der direkt über den Klippen am Meer thront. Das Mitglied der „The Leading Hotels of the World” befindet sich in Porches und hat allerhand zu bieten – u.a. 170 Zimmer, Suiten und Villen, die in mehreren, im maurischen Stil gehaltenen Gebäuden untergebracht sind. Hinzu gesellen sich Restaurants und Bars, in denen der hauseigene Wein kredenzt wird. Angebaut wird dieser im VILA VITA Landgut „Herdade dos Grous“. Im Rahmen unseres Festivals werden wir das 730 Hektar große Anwesen besuchen. Weitere Stationen im Rahmenprogramm siehe nebenan. Auch das Festival-Lineup ist wieder hochkarätig und abwechslungsreich. Und wer neben all dem Programm noch Energien übrighat – für den hält VILA VITA Parc viele Möglichkeiten zur Zerstreuung, zum Relaxen etc. parat.

reserva / reservierung / reservation Local do evento / Veranstaltungsort / Venue

Bilhetes para concertos / Konzerttickets / Concert Tickets

VILA VITA Parc | Rua Anneliese Pohl, Alporchinhos | 8400 - 450 Porches, Portugal Pacotes de hotel / Hotelpakete / Hotel Packages

@ smooth entertainment (online): www.smoothjazzshop.eu/algarve @ VILA VITA Parc (Porches, Portugal): Tel. +351 282 310100 | www.vilavitaparc.com customerservice@vilavitaparc.com

@ smooth entertainment (online): Tel. +49 821 2292711 shop@smooth-entertainment.de | www.smoothjazzshop.eu/algarve

www.algarve.smoothjazzfestival.de

Programa adicional Rahmenprogramm Additional Program

Concertos ao vivo Live-Konzerte Live Concerts

Terçafeira, 26 de setembro / Dienstag, 26. September / Tuesday, September 26 19:30 h Jantar de boasvindas com a equipa e os Músicos Willkommens-Dinner mit Team und Musikern Welcome Dinner with team and musicians Quartafeira, 27 de setembro / Mittwoch, 27. September / Wednesday, September 27 09:30 h Excursão de um dia: Viagem de autocarro ao Alentejo à propriedade vitícola Herdade dos Grous Tagesausflug: Bus-Trip nach Alentejo auf das Weingut Herdade dos Grous Day excursion: Bus trip to the vineyard Herdade dos Grous in Alentejo

20:30 h Entrada / Einlass / Entrance 21:00 h SM OOT H JAZZ ALLSTARS JAM SE SS I ON feat. Kirk Whalum, Keiko Matsui, Paul Brown, Larry Braggs, Tom Braxton, John Stoddart & Jackiem Joyner (subject to change)

Quintafeira, 28 de setembro / Donnerstag, 28. September / Thursday, September 28 11:00 h Excursão 1/2 dia: Passeio de barco: Costa & Golfinhos Halbtages-Ausflug: Boots-Trip: Küste & Delphine Half-day excursion: Boat trip: Coast & Dolphins

20:15 h 20:45 h 22:15 h 23:45 h

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance JO HN STO DDAR T B R IAN CU L B E R TSO N Aftershow Chillout (DJ richard Edwards)

Sextafeira, 29 de setembro / Freitag, 29. September / Friday, September 29 10:00 h Excursão 1/2 dia: Viagem de autocarro para Alte, Querença & Salir Halbtages-Ausflug: Bus-Trip nach Alte, Querença & Salir Half-day excursion: Bus trip to Alte, Querença & Salir

20:15 h 20:45 h 22:15 h 23:45 h

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance L AR RY B R AG G S KIR K WHALU M Aftershow Chillout (DJ richard Edwards)

Sábado, 30 de setembro / Samstag, 30. September / Saturday, September 30 10:30 h Entrada / Einlass / Entrance 11:00 h JACKIE M JOYN E R 12:30 h PAU L B ROWN 20:15 h 20:45 h 22:15 h 23:45 h

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance PAU L JACKSO N JR R ICHAR D E L L IOT Aftershow Chillout (DJ richard Edwards)

Domingo, 1 de outubro / Sonntag, 1. Oktober / Sunday, October 1 10:30 h Entrada / Einlass / Entrance 11:00 h TO M B R AX TO N 12:30 h KE IKO MATSU I

Festival program | Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival

John Stoddart cresceu numa família de músicos, em Filadelfia, e já na igreja cantava e tocava piano, logo que começou a andar. Aos 13 anos iniciou uma formação a sério e em 1993 concluiu o Bachelor of Arts em Piano e Canto na Washington Adventist Uni versity. Já no ano anterior, John abriu uma produtora. Enquan to cantor, produtor, arranjista e compositor já trabalhou com artistas como Celine Dion, Al Jarreau, Boney James, Will Down ing, Patti Austin e Bob James, entre outros. A sua colaboração com o saxofonista Kirk Whalum („Hymns In The Garden“, “The Christmas Message“) já foi premiada por duas vezes com a no meação para o Grammy na categoria de Best Pop Instrumental Performance; além disso, ele foi co-produtor da faixa de Whalum „It’s What I Do“, com a qual o saxofonista ganhou um Grammy em 2011. Outro sucesso: A sua composição „I Still Believe” (em „Faith|Hope|Love”) apareceu primeiro no álbum „Just Chillin‘“ do guitarrista Norman Brown, que ganhou o Grammy Award na categoria de „Best Pop Instrumental Album“. Actualmente, John trabalha num novo álbum.

John Stoddart wuchs in Philadelphia in einer musikalischen Familie auf und hat schon in der Kirche gesungen und Klavier gespielt, sobald er laufen konnte. Mit 13 begann er eine richtige Ausbildung und schloss 1993 mit einem Bachelor of Arts in Klavier und Gesang an der Washington Adventist University ab. Bereits im Jahr zuvor hatte John eine Produktionsfirma gegründet. Als Sänger, Produzent, Arrangeur und Komponist hat er u.a. mit Künstlern wie Celine Dion, Al Jarreau, Boney James, Will Downing, Patti Austin und Bob James zusammengearbeitet. Seine Kollaboration mit Saxophonist Kirk Whalum („Hymns In The Garden“, “The Christmas Message“) wurde beide Male mit der Nominierung für den Grammy als Best Pop Instrumental Performance gekrönt; zudem war er Co-Produzent des Whalum-Songs „It’s What I Do“, mit dem der Saxophonist 2011 einen Grammy gewann. Ein weiterer Erfolg: Seine Komposition „I Still Believe” (auf „Faith|Hope|Love”) erschien zuerst auf dem Album „Just Chillin‘“ von Gitarrist Norman Brown, der dafür den Grammy Award „Best Pop Instrumental Album“ gewann. Derzeit arbeitet John an einem neuen Album.

John Stoddart live at Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Thursday, 28. September, 20:45 h

John Stoddart grew up in Philadelphia, in a musical family and was singing and playing the piano in church almost as soon as he could walk. He began formal training at the age of 13 and, in 1993, earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Piano and Voice from Columbia Union College in Takoma Park, Maryland. A year before, in 1992, John had started his own production company and his singing/producing/arranging/writing credits already include Celine Dion, Al Jarreau, Boney James, Will Downing, Patti Austin, and Bob James to name a few. His production collaborations with saxophonist Kirk Whalum (“Hymns In The Garden”, “The Christmas Message”) both garnered Grammy nominations for Best Pop Instrumental Performance and he also was the associate producer on Whalum’s song “It’s What I Do”, which won a Grammy in 2011. Another great success: His composition “I Still Believe” (on “Faith|Hope|Love”) was first featured on guitarist Norman Brown’s album “Just Chillin’”, which won the Grammy award for Best Pop Instrumental Album. Currently, John is working on a new album.

Facts 6 solo albums | Singer/Songwriter/ Producer of Grammy-nominated recordings Discography Only On Christmas Day (2013) Faith|Hope|Love (2010) Faces (2008) Sweet (2006) Wings To Walk This Road (2003) Love So Real (1998) A Not So Silent Night (1998) www.johnstoddart.com

Artists | John Stoddart

Image: John Stoddart

John Stoddart

Facts

Multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer Brian Culbertson grew up near Chicago. His musical journey began at the age of 8 on piano, adding drums at 9, trombone at 10, and bass at 12. So naturally gifted was Brian, that he started composing original music for his 7th grade piano recital. He flourished in school bands throughout high school and moved to downtown Chicago to continue his musical studies at DePaul University. In 1994, aged 20, he self-produced his debut album. Since releasing “Long Night Out”, Brian has released sixteen more albums, travelled around the world and seen his name at the top of Billboard and radio charts. He has worked and performed with industry all-stars like Maurice White of Earth, Wind & Fire, Larry Graham, Michael McDonald, Chris Botti, Barry Manilow, Herb Alpert, Natalie Cole, and Chuck Brown, just to name a few. Furthermore, he has received numerous awards. Brian is currently working on a new “romantic” themed album which will be released on Valentine’s Day 2018. Der Multi-Instrumentalist, Komponist und Produzent Brian Culbertson wuchs in der Nähe von Chicago auf. Seine musikalische Reise begann im Alter von 8 Jahren auf dem Klavier. Nächste Station war Schlagzeug mit 9, gefolgt von Posaune mit 10 und Bass mit 12. Brian war so ein Naturtalent, dass er schon in der 7. Klasse die Musik für sein Klavierkonzert selbst komponierte. In Schulbands an der High School verfeinerte er sein Können und zog schließlich in die Chicagoer Innenstadt, um an der DePaul University Musik zu studieren. 1994, gerade mal 20 Jahre alt, produzierte er sein Debütalbum. Seit „Long Night Out“ erschien, hat Brian sechzehn weitere Alben veröffentlicht, reiste um die Welt und sah seinen Namen immer wieder an der Spitze der Billboard und Radio Charts. Er stand auf der Bühne oder im Studio mit Stars wie Maurice White von Earth, Wind & Fire, Larry Graham, Michael McDonald, Chris Botti, Barry Manilow, Herb Alpert, Natalie Cole und Chuck Brown, um nur ein paar Namen zu nennen. Zudem erhielt er zahlreiche Auszeichnungen. Zurzeit arbeitet Brian an einem neuen, „romantischen“ Album, das 2018 am Valentinstag veröffentlicht werden soll.

Discography Funk! (2016) Live – 20th Anniversary Tour (2016) Breathe – Piano For Relaxation (2014) Another Long Night Out (2014) Dreams (2012) XII (2010) Live From The Inside (2009) Bringing Back The Funk (2008) A Soulful Christmas (2006) It’s On Tonight (2005) Come On Up (2003) Nice + Slow (2001) Somethin’ Bout Love (1999) Secrets (1997) After Hours (1996) Modern Life (1995) Long Night Out (1994) www.brianculbertson.com

Brian Culbertson live at Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Thursday, 28. September, 22:15 h

Image: Daniel Ray

Brian Culbertson

O multi-instrumentista, compo sitor und produtor Brian Cul bertson cresceu perto de Chica go. Inicia o seu percurso musical aos 8 anos no piano. A próxima etapa seria a bateria aos 9 anos, seguida do trombone aos 10 e do baixo aos 12. Brian era um talento natural que compôs a música para o seu próprio con certo de piano no 7º ano. Nas bandas da escola secundária ele aperfeiçoou as suas capacida des e mudou-se finalmente para o centro de Chicago, onde estu dou Música na DePaul Universi ty. Em 1994, aos 20 anos, ele produziu o seu primeiro álbum. Desde o lançamento de „Long Night Out“, Brian lançou mais dezasseis discos, viajou pelo mundo e viu o seu nome no topo da Billboard e nas tabelas das rádios. Ele tocou no palco ou no estúdio com estrelas como Maurice White da Earth, Wind & Fire, Larry Graham, Michael McDonald, Chris Botti, Barry Manilow, Herb Alpert, Natalie Cole e Chuck Brown, só para mencionar alguns. Além disso, recebeu imensos prémios. Ac tualmente, Brian trabalha num novo álbum, „romântico“, que deve ser lançado no dia de S. Valentim, em 2018.

17 solo albums | 6 No.1 hits & 8 Top3 albums at the Billboard jazz charts

Brian Culbertson | Artists

Facts 2 solo albums | Lead vocalist of the legendary soul band Tower of Power for 14 years | Since 2013 member of world famous The Temptations

Jus‘ Sangin (2011) Places (2005) larrybraggsmusic.com

Larry Braggs Larry Braggs live at Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Friday, 29. September, 20:45 h

He was born to sing. Already in the second grade, he knew that. Larry Braggs is passionate, powerful and spiritual – and so is his voice. Cut from the same cloth as some of the world’s greatest vocalists, the voice of the 2-time Grammy nominee and current lead singer for The Temptations ranges over three octaves. Combined with his unrivalled stage presence, that has made him one of the most electrifying entertainers on tour. He was born one of nine brothers and sisters and he was the first to go to college in his family. “My parents taught us we were put here on this earth with a God-given purpose, that everyone has talent, and that it’s up to us to discover and nurture the one talent that will distinguish us, because that’s the talent that’s going to shape our lives”, says Larry, who after college studied at the University of Arkansas. He graduated with a major in music and shortly after he was given a “vehicle” to “shape his life”: Tower of Power. Larry had been the lead vocalist for the soul band for the past 14 years, but someday started to work on his solo career. In 2005, he published his debut album, and since then, he has become one of the most sought after singers in the business, touring almost 200 days out of the year.

Er wurde geboren, um zu singen. Das wusste er schon in der zweiten Klasse. Larry Braggs ist leidenschaftlich, kraftvoll und spirituell – und genauso ist seine Stimme. Aus dem gleichen Holz geschnitzt wie die der weltbesten Sänger, reicht die Stimme des 2-fachen Grammy-Nominees und aktuellen Lead-Sängers der Temptations über drei Oktaven. Gemeinsam mit seiner unvergleichlichen Bühnenpräsenz hat sie ihn zu einem der elektrisierendsten Entertainer gemacht. Er erblickte als einer von neun Brüdern und Schwestern das Licht der Welt und war der erste in seiner Familie, der aufs College ging. „Meine Eltern lehrten uns, dass Gott uns mit einer ganz bestimmten Absicht auf diese Erde geschickt hat; dass jeder eine Gabe hat und es an uns liegt, diese eine Gabe, die uns unterscheiden wird, zu entdecken und zu pflegen, denn es wird dieses Talent sein, das unser Leben formt“, sagt Larry, der nach dem College an der Universität von Arkansas studierte. Er schloss sein Studium mit einem Diplom ab und erhielt kurz darauf eben diese Möglichkeit, sein „Leben zu formen“: Tower of Power trat in sein Leben. 14 Jahre lang war Larry Lead-Sänger der Soul Band, begann aber eines Tages, an seiner Solokarriere zu arbeiten. 2005 veröffentlichte er sein Debütalbum, avancierte seither zu einem der begehrtesten Sänger im Geschäft und tourt fast 200 Tage im Jahr.

Artists | Larry Braggs

Image: T. Bedford

Discography

Nasceu para cantar. Ele já sabia disso no 2º ano. Larry Braggs é apaixonado, pode roso e espiritual – e isso reflete-se na sua voz. Tal como alguns dos melhores canto res do mundo, a voz do actual voaclista dos The Temptations, que já foi nomeado duas vezes para o Grammy, ultrapassa três oitavas. Essa voz, juntamente com a sua incomparável presença em palco, tornaram Larry num entertainer arrebata dor. Nasceu numa família de nove filhos e foi o primeiro da família a frequentar a faculdade. „Os meus pais ensinaram-nos que Deus nos enviou a esta Terra com uma determinada missão; que cada um tem o seu dom e cabe a cada um de nós descobrir e promover esse dom, que nos distingue, pois é esse dom que molda a nossa vida “, diz Larry,que estudou na Universidade de Arkansas após a faculdade. Ele concluiu o curso superior em música e teve a oportunidade, logo a seguir, de „moldar a sua vida“: Tower of Power entrou na sua vida. Larry foi o vocalista da banda Soul durante 14 anos, mas um dia começou a trabalhar na sua carreira a solo. Em 2005 lançou o seu állbum de estreia, e desde então é um dos cantores mais requisitados, estando em digressão quase 200 dias por ano.

Gefühlvoll, leidenschaftlich, rührend – das sind die Worte, die die Musik von Kirk Whalum am besten beschreiben. Geprägt von seinen Gospelwurzeln in Memphis, ist der unverkennbare Tenor-Sound zu seinem Markenzeichen geworden. Im Lauf der 80er Jahre trat der Saxophonist aus seiner Rolle als Sideman heraus und gründete seine eigene Band. In Houston entdeckte ihn Jazz-Pianist Bob James und ermöglichte ihm eine Tournee; in dieser Zeit veröffentlichte er u.a. auch „Cache”, sein erstes Nr.1-Album. Zudem wurden Kirk und Bob für ihr Album „Joined At The Hip“ für den Grammy nominiert. Mit seinem Umzug nach L.A. wurde Whalum zum gefragten Session-Musiker für Künstler wie Barbra Streisand, Al Jarreau, Luther Vandross, Quincy Jones und Whitney Houston. In ihrem Mega-Hit „I Will Always Love You“ spielte er Saxophon. Bis heute hat Kirk mehr als 25 Solo-Alben veröffentlicht und zahlreiche Awards für sein musikalisches Können erhalten, darunter drei Dove Award Nominierungen, eine NAACP Image Award Nominierung und 12 Grammy-Nominierungen. 2011 gewann er seinen ersten Grammy (Best Gospel Song – „It’s What I Do“). Neben seinen vielen Solo-Projekten ist Kirk neben Rick Braun (Trompete) und Norman Brown (Gitarre) Mitglied der Soul-/Jazz-Gruppe BWB.

Image: Anna Webber

Soulful, passionate, stirring…these are the words most often used to describe Kirk’s music. Forged from his Memphis, TN gospel roots, Kirk’s big, rich tenor sound is unmistakably his. The 80’s were highlighted by his stepping out of his blossoming sideman role and forming his own band. It was in Houston where jazz pianist Bob James “discovered” him and brought him on tour, which led to five successful albums, including “Cache”, Kirk’s first #1 album. As well, Kirk and Bob received a Grammy nomination for their collaboration album “Joined At The Hip”. After moving to L.A., Whalum became an in-demand session player for artists like Barbra Streisand, Al Jarreau, Luther Vandross, Quincy Jones and Whitney Houston. It’s his sax heard on the mega-hit, “I Will Always Love You.” To date, Kirk has released over 25 solo recordings and received numerous awards for his musical excellence including amongst others three Dove Award nominations, an NAACP Image Award nomination and 12 Grammy nominations. In 2011, he won his first Grammy award (Best Gospel Song – “It’s What I Do”). In addition to his many solo projects, Kirk is a member of the soul/jazz group, BWB, with Rick Braun (trumpet) and Norman Brown (guitar).

Kirk Whalum live at Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Friday, 29. September, 22:15 h

Sensível, apaixonada, inspiradora – estas são as palavras que melhor descrevem a música de Kirk Whalum. Modelado pelas suas raízes na música gospel em Memphis, o som de tenor in confundível de Kirk é único e só seu. Nos anos 80, o saxofonista deixou o seu papel como sideman e formou a sua própria banda. Em Houston foi descoberto pelo pianista de jazz Bob James que lhe proporcionou uma digressão de que resultou cinco álbuns de sucesso, incluindo „Cache”, o seu álbum de estreia n.º 1. Além dis so, Kirk e Bob foram nomeados para o Grammy, com o seu álbum „Joined At The Hip“. Após ter mudado para L.A., Whalum tornou -se um músico de sessão muito procurado para artistas como Barbra Streisand, Al Jarreau, Luther Vandross, Quincy Jones e Whitney Houston. No seu grande êxito „I Will Always Love You“, ele tocou saxofone. Kirk publicou até à data mais de 25 álbuns a solo e recebeu imensos prémios pelas suas capacidades musi cais, entre eles três nomeações Dove Award, uma nomeação NAACP Image Award e 12 nomeações para o Grammy. Em 2011 ganhou o seu primeiro Grammy (na categoria de Best Gospel Song – „It’s What I Do“). A juntar aos seus projectos a solo, Kirk é, juntamente com Rick Braun (trompeta) e Norman Brown (guitarra), membro da banda de Soul/Jazz BWB.

Kirk Whalum Facts Over 25 solo albums | Grammy Winner | 12x Grammy nominee | 13 Top10 albums at the Billboard jazz charts Discography Lovecovers (2017) Romance Language (2011) Everything Is Everything: The Music Of Donny Hathaway (2010) The Gospel According To Jazz Chapter III (2010) Promises Made (2008) Roundtrip (2007) Ultimate (2007) Kirk Whalum Performs The Babyface Songbook (2005) Into My Soul (2003) The Gospel According To Jazz Chapter II (2002) The Best Of Kirk Whalum (2002) The Christmas Message (2001) Hymns In The Garden (2001) Unconditional (2000) Joy (1999) Kirk Whalum | Artists etc. www.kirkwhalum.com

Facts 6 solo albums | 2 No.1 hits & 4 Top15 albums at the Billboard jazz charts | Debut artist of the year 2008 Discography Main Street Beat (2017) Evolve (2014) Church Boy (2012) Jackiem Joyner (2010) Lil‘ Man Soul (2009) Babysoul (2007) www.jackiemjoyner.com

Jackiem Joyner

* Der Science-Fiction-Fan Jackiem wandelt nicht nur auf musikalischen Pfaden. 2016 erschien sein erster Roman „Zarya: Cydnus Final Hope, Vol. I“.

Jackiem Joyner live at Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Saturday, 30. September, 11:00 h

10 Artists | Jackiem Joyner

O saxofonista, produtor, compositor e autor* Jackiem Joyner nasceu em Norfolk. Ele tocou bateria no coro da igreja e na secundária mudou para saxofone (alto, soprano, barítono). Ele lançou o seu primeiro álbum „Babysoul“ em 2007 e ocu pou logo a posição # 15 na Billboard Charts. Seguiram outros quatro álbuns e tanto com a sua própria banda como com grandes nomes, nomeadamente Keiko Matsui, ele percorreu o mundo inteiro em intensa digressão mundial. Na cena con temporânea do jazz ele continua a ser o jovem rebelde e está longe de ser compla cente, mantendo-se fiel ao seu som e estilo. Dez anos após o lançamento do seu álbum de estreia, Joyner publicou agora o seu sexto CD. Quando começou a criar este álbum, ele tinha três coisas em mente: devia ser „upbeat“, agradável de ouvir e convidar para dançar. „Inicialmente ‚Main Street Beat’ começou como um verda deiro disco funk, que afinal de contas contém algo de todos estes três elementos – e ainda muito mais, porque dei asas à minha criatividade“, diz Jackiem, que deu o nome da sua filha „Trinity“ à primeira faixa da sua sessão „funky, de inspiração dance e de influência Motown“. * O fã de ficção científica Jackiem não envereda apenas pelo caminho musical. Em 2016 foi publicado o seu primeiro romance „Zarya: Cydnus Final Hope, Vol. I“.

Born in Norfolk, saxophonist, producer, composer and author* Jackiem Joyner played drums in the church choir before he took up the saxophone in high school. “Babysoul”, Joyner’s first album, debuted at #15 on the Billboard chart in 2007. Four more albums followed and both with his own band as well as with big names like Keiko Matsui, Jackiem toured the world extensively. Still being a young turk on the contemporary jazz scene, he is far from complacent and staid in his sound and style. Ten years after his debut, Joyner has now released his sixth CD. He approached crafting that album with a three-pronged purpose: it should be “upbeat”, fun to listen to and something to dance to. “‘Main Street Beat’ originally started off as a straight funk record that eventually became some of that, but a whole lot more as I allowed the creative process to have its way with me,” says Jackiem, who named the first single from the funky, dance inspiring and Motown-influenced session after his daughter: “Trinity”. * The Science Fiction fan Jackiem does not only walk on musical paths. In 2016, his debut novel “Zarya: Cydnus Final Hope, Vol. I” was published.

Image: Raj Naik

Saxophonist, Produzent, Komponist und Autor* Jackiem Joyner wurde in Norfolk geboren. Er spielte im Kirchenchor Schlagzeug und wechselte in der Highschool zum Saxophon (Alt, Sopran, Bariton). Sein erstes Album „Babysoul“ veröffentlichte er 2007 und landete gleich auf # 15 der Billboard Charts. Vier weitere Alben folgten und sowohl mit seiner eigenen Band als auch mit großen Namen wie Keiko Matsui tourte er intensiv um die ganze Welt. In der Contemporary-Jazz-Szene gilt er immer noch als junger Wilder und er blieb seinem Sound und Stil, der alles andere als gefällig ist, treu. Zehn Jahre nach seinem Debüt hat Joyner nun seine sechste CD veröffentlicht. Als er anfing, dieses Album zu erschaffen, hatte er drei Dinge im Sinn: Es sollte „upbeat“ sein und sowohl Spaß beim Zuhören, als auch Lust auf Tanzen machen. „Ursprünglich startete ‚Main Street Beat’ wie eine echte Funk-Platte, die letztlich etwas von all den drei Aspekten hat – und doch noch so viel mehr, weil ich dem kreativen Prozess auf seinem Weg folgte“, sagt Jackiem, der die erste Single seiner „funky, dance inspiring and Motowninfluenced session“ nach seiner Tochter benannt hat: „Trinity“.

Paul Brown fing als Schlagzeuger an, wurde dann erst Ton-Ingenieur für R&B-Legenden wie Diana Ross, Luther Vandross oder Aretha Franklin sowie ein Urban-Jazz-Produzent, der zweimal den Grammy gewann, bevor er sich schließlich zu einem beliebten Gitarristen und Solo-Künstler entwickelte. In den 12 Jahren nach Veröffentlichung seines Debütalbums produzierte der in Los Angeles geborene und aufgewachsene Gitarrist sieben Hit-Solo-Alben und über 60 #1 Radio-Airplay-Hits für sich selbst und andere Künstler. Hinzu kommen Tausende von Auftritten weltweit, darunter Gigs mit seinen Gitarren-Kumpanen Larry Carlton, Chris Standring und Marc Antoine, aber auch mit anderen Größen, z. B. Euge Groove, Rick Braun, Kirk Whalum, Boney James, Jeff Golub und Al Jarreau. Dennoch gibt Paul zu, dass er immer noch versucht, sich als Künstler zu finden. Es treibt ihn also immer noch fröhlich-ruhelos um – und alles, was er tun kann, ist tiefer in die Musik einzutauchen, die sein Leben von Anfang an befeuert hat: den Blues. Genau das macht er auf „One Way Back“. Während er weiterhin die für ihn so typischen tiefen Funk- und coolen Urban-Vibes fließen lässt, huldigt Paul auf dieser CD seinen lebenslangen Blues-Einflüssen.

Paul Brown começou como ba terista e depois tornou-se en genheiro de som para lendas do R&B, tais como Diana Ross, Luther Vandross ou Aretha Franklin, bem como produtor de Urban-Jazz, que ganhou duas vezes o Grammy, antes de se tornar num guitarrista e artista a solo popular. Durante os 12 anos após o lançamen to do seu álbum de estreia, o guitarrista nascido e criado em Los Angeles produziu sete álbuns a solo e mais de 60 #1 Radio-Airplay-Hits para si e para outros artistas. Fez milha res de actuações pelo mundo inteiro, incluindo Gigs com os seus colegas guitarristas Lar ry Carlton, Chris Standring e Marc Antoine, mas também com outros artistas influen tes do género, tais como Euge Groove, Rick Braun, Kirk Wha lum, Boney James, Jeff Golub e Al Jarreau. Mesmo assim, Paul admite que ainda está a ten tar encontrar-se como artista. Apesar de todos estes elogios e actuações ao vivo, ele conti nua alegre mas inquieto – e o seu único objectivo é mergu lhar cada vez mais na música que mexeu com ele desde o início: o Blues. É o que ele faz precisamente em „One Way Back“. Enquanto deixa fluir os deep funk e cool urban vibes, que é tão característico dele, Paul celebra neste CD a sua eterna paixão pelo blues.

Paul Brown started as a drummer, he then became an engineer for R&B legends such as Diana Ross, Luther Vandross, Aretha Franklin before evolving into a two-time Grammy winning urban jazz producer and finally a popular guitarist, artist and performer in his own right. Over the past 12 years, after he had released his debut album, the Los Angeles born and raised guitarist produced/composed over 60 #1 radio airplay hits for himself and other artists as well as seven previous hit solo albums. He also did thousands of performances worldwide, including gigs with fellow guitarists Larry Carlton, Chris Standring and Marc Antoine, but also others of the genre’s most influential artists, e.g. Euge Groove, Rick Braun, Kirk Whalum, Boney James, Jeff Golub and Al Jarreau. And yet Paul admits he’s still trying to find himself as an artist. After all those accolades and live performances, he remains joyously restless – and the only place for him to go is deeper into the music that’s driven his life from the start, the blues. That is exactly what he does in “One way back”. While keeping his trademark deep funk and cool urban vibes flowing, on that CD Paul celebrates his lifelong blues influences.

Paul Brown Facts 8 solo albums | 2x Grammy winner | 4 No.1 hits & 3 Top10 albums at the Billboard jazz charts as a soloist | Over 60 No.1 hits as one of the genre’s most successful producers (Al Jarreau, Boney James, Larry Carlton, Kirk Whalum, etc.) Discography One Way Back (2016) Truth B Told (2014) The Funky Joint (2012) Love You Found Me (2010) Foreign Xchange (2009) White Sand (2007) The City J (2005) Up Front (2004) www.paulbrownjazz.com

Image: Peter Böhi

Paul Brown live at Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Saturday, 30. September, 12:30 h

Paul Brown | Artists 11

Facts 8 solo albums | Grammy nominee | No.1 hit at the Billboard jazz chart | Appeared on recordings of Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Elton John, Barbra Streisand, George Benson, Daft Punk and many more

Stories From Stompin’Willie (2016) Lay It Back (2008) Still Small Voice (2003) The Power Of The String (2001) Never Alone (1996) A River In The Desert (1993) Out Of The Shadows (1990) I Came To Play (1988) www.pauljacksonjr.com

Paul Jackson, Jr

Der Grammy nominierte Gitarrist, Produzent und Komponist Paul Jackson, Jr. wurde in Los Angeles geboren und lebt dort immer noch. In den späten 80er Jahren startete Paul seine Solo-Karriere, allerdings machten ihn seine musikalische Reife, sein oft nachgeahmter unverwechselbarer Stil sowie seine bezeichnenden musikalischen und technischen Fähigkeiten erst ein Jahrzehnt später zu einem Liebling des Live-Publikums. Zu diesem Zeitpunkt realisierten auch viele, dass er einer der „meist-aufgenommenen“ Gitarristen weltweit ist. So ist er etwa auf Alben von Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Elton John, Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, Luther Vandross, Ella Fitzgerald, Jennifer Lopez, Al Jarreau, Joe Sample, Barry White und vielen anderen zu hören. Vor nicht allzu langer Zeit hat Paul sein Spiel und seine Fähigkeiten als Komponist auch auf einer Daft-Punk-CD eingebracht. Sie erhielt 5 Grammys, war #1 in 104 Ländern und brachte auch Paul Grammy-Anerkennung für seinen Beitrag zum Album ein. Sein neues Projekt, „Stories From Stompin‘ Willie“, erzählt von musikalischen Freundschaften, vor allem seiner langjährigen Beziehung zu George Duke, der ihm den Spitznamen Stompin‘ Willie verpasste.

Paul Jackson, Jr live at Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Saturday, 30. September, 20:45 h

12 Artists | Paul Jackson, Jr

Grammy nominated guitarist, producer and composer Paul Jackson, Jr. was born and is still based in Los Angeles. In the late 80’s, Paul began his own solo recording career. However, it was not until a decade later that his musical maturity, much imitated distinctive style, and significant musical and technical skills made him a favourite among live audiences and he became recognized by many as one of the most recorded guitarists in the world. He has appeared on the recordings of superstars such as Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Elton John, Barbara Streisand, Celine Dion, Luther Vandross, Ella Fitzgerald, Natalie Cole, B.B. King, Jennifer Lopez, Kenny Rogers, Al Jarreau, Joe Sample, Barry White, Chicago, and many others. More recently, Paul contributed his playing styles and composing chops to the Daft Punk CD, which garnered 5 Grammy Awards, was the #1 album in 104 countries and garnered Paul Grammy recognition for his contribution to the Album. His new project, “Stories From Stompin’ Willie”, is a CD about musical friendships, especially his long time relationship with George Duke, who nicknamed him Stompin’ Willie.

Paul Jackson, Jr., guitarrista, produtor e compositor nomea do para o Grammy nasceu em Los Angeles e ainda lá vive. No final dos anos 80, Paul iniciou a sua carreira a solo. No entanto, só uma década depois, a sua maturidade musical, o seu in confundível e muito copiado estilo, bem como as suas signi ficativas capacidades musicais e técnicas fazem dele um dos favoritos do público. Actual mente, ele é um dos guitarris tas mais reconhecidos do mun do. Ele tocou nas gravações de Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston, Elton John, Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, Luther Vandross, Ella Fitzgerald, Jen nifer Lopez, Al Jarreau, Joe Sample, Barry White, Chicago e muitos outros. Recentemen te, Paul contribuiu com o seu estilo de tocar e as suas capaci dades de composição para um CD de Daft-Punk que recebeu 5 Grammys, foi #1 em 104 paí ses e trouxe a Paul um Grammy como reconhecimento por ter participado no álbum. O seu novo projecto, „Stories From Stompin’ Willie“, é um Cd sobre amizades musicais, sobretudo sobre a sua amizade de longa data com George Duke, que lhe deu a alcunha Stompin‘ Willie.

Image: Paul Jackson, Jr

Discography

Richard Elliot live at Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Saturday, 30. September, 22:15 h

Richard Elliot wurde in Schottland geboren und wuchs in Los Angeles auf, wo er auf der Mittelschule anfing, Saxophon zu spielen. Als er bei Tower of Power spielte, hörten viele erstmals, wie virtuos sein Spiel auf dem Tenorsax ist. Fünf Jahre lang tourte er mit ToP, verließ die Band aber Ende der 80er Jahre, um seine Solokarriere zu starten. Seitdem hat Richard mehr als 20 Alben als Solokünstler veröffentlicht, eines seiner Lieblingsprojekte war aber „Summer Horns“, das er mit Dave Koz, Gerald Albright und Mindi Abair aufnahm. Die CD wurde für einen Grammy (Best Pop Instrumental Album) nominiert. Sein aktuelles Album „Summer Madness“ ist funky, huldigt aber auch seinen R&B-Wurzeln. Begleitet von seiner Band und zwei weiteren Bläsern – Trompeter und Posaunist Rick Braun, der das Album zudem produziert hat, und Baritonsaxophonist Curt Waylee –, ist Richard bei diesem Album mit seinen handverlesenen Kollegen ganz bei null eingestiegen. Alle sind gemeinsam ins Studio gegangen, jeder hat seine Ideen eingebracht. Das Ergebnis der improvisierten Jam-Sessions: Ein Werk, das durch viele Stimmungen und Stile cruist. Von Latin- und African-inspired Soul Funk bis hin zu Soul Jazz und teils gar einem Hauch Fusion.

Richard Elliot was born in Scotland and grew up in Los Angeles, where he started playing saxophone while in middle school. It was with Tower of Power that many first heard his virtuosity on tenor saxophone. He was touring with ToP for five years, but by the late ‘80s, he left them to launch his solo career. Since then, Richard has released more than 20 albums as a leader, but one of his favorite projects was the collaborative release “Summer Horns”, which found him teaming up with Dave Koz, Gerald Albright and Mindi Abair. The CD was nominated for a Grammy (Best Pop Instrumental Album). His latest album, “Summer Madness”, is funky, but also celebrating his R&B roots. Accompanied by his band and two other horn men, trumpeter/trombonist Rick Braun, who also produced the album, and baritone saxophonist Curt Waylee, the music was created from scratch as Richard and his handpicked musicians formulated and honed their ideas in the studio. The result of these impromptu jams: An album that touches down on a variety of moods and styles along the way, from Latin- and African-inspired funk to soul jazz, even flirting with fusion.

Richard Elliot nasceu na Escócia e cresceu em Los Angeles, onde começou a tocar saxofone na escola do ensino básico. Foi quando tocava na banda Tower of Power que muitos se aperceberam da forma virtuosa como tocava saxofone tenor. Durante cinco anos fez digressões com os ToP, mas deixou a banda no final dos anos 80 para iniciar a sua carreira a solo. Desde então, Richard já lançou mais de 20 álbuns como artista a solo, contudo, um dos seus projectos favoritos foi „Summer Horns“, que gravou com Dave Koz, Gerald Albright e Mindi Abair. O CD foi nomeado para um Grammy (na categoria de Best Pop Instrumental Album). O seu álbum actual, „Summer Madness“, tem influências do funk, mas homenageando as suas raízes R&B. Acompanhado da sua banda e de mais dois músicos de sopro – o trompetista/trombonista Rick Braun, que produziu o álbum, e o saxofonista barítono Curt Waylee –, Richard e os seus colegas, escolhidos a dedo, começaram do zero, uma vez que foram desenvolvendo as suas ideias no estúdio. O resultado destas sessões improvisadas de jam: um álbum que mostra uma diversidade de humores e estilos, desde o funk com influências latinas e africanas ao soul jazz – uma fusão de estilos de música.

Richard Elliot Facts 22 solo albums | Grammy nominee | 8 No.1 hits & 12 Top10 albums at the Billboard jazz charts

Image: Lori Stoll

Discography Summer Madness (2016) Lip Service (2014) Number Ones (2013) Summer Horns (2013) In The Zone (2011) Rock Steady (2009) RnR (2007) Metro Blue (2005) Ricochet (2003) Crush (2001) Ballads (2001) The Best Of Richard Elliot (2000) Chill Factor (1999) Jumpin’ Off (1997) etc. www.richardelliot.com

Richard Elliot | Artists 13

9 solo albums | Musical director of legendary bassist Wayman Tisdale for 17 years | World tours with Earl Klugh & Keiko Matsui Discography

14 Artists | Tom Braxton

www.tombraxton.com

Saxophonist and composer Tom Braxton grew up in Texas. At an early age, his dad, saxophonist James (J.T.) Braxton, introduced him to jazz. Tom started to play piano in the 4th grade, but two years later, his father put the alto sax in his hands. During his college years, he formed the jazz-fusion band “No Compromise” which opened concerts for Joe Sample, Stanley Clarke, George Howard, and many others. After graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Music/Performance degree, he decided to launch his solo career. In 1992, Tom released his debut album with producer Bernard Wright. Bernard also got him to gig with Wayman Tisdale and Tom toured extensively with Wayman for 17 years, also serving as Musical Director. Up to now, he has recorded nine albums, and they all numerous jazz charts. Through the years, Braxton has shared stage with many well-known artists such as Dave Koz, Candy Dulfer, Brian Culbertson, Bob James, George Duke, Earl Klugh, Kirk Whalum, Jonathan Butler, Jeff Golub, Marcus Miller, Keiko Matsui, Aretha Franklin, Luther Vandross and Sheila E. The energetic, charismatic performer knows how to charm audiences of all ages. His distinctive and recognizable sound incorporates elements of Jazz, Latin, Funk, and R&B.

Image: Luis Perez

Facts

The Other Side (2016) The Next Chapter (2014) Endless Highway (2009) Imagine This (2007) Bounce (2004/2005) Comfort And Joy (2001) Face To Face (1999) Katallasso (1998) Your Move (1992) Trom Braxton live at Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Sunday, 1.October, 11:00 h

Tom Braxton

Saxophonist und Komponist Tom Braxton wuchs in Texas auf. Schon in jungen Jahren begeisterte ihn sein Vater, Saxophonist James (J.T.) Braxton, für Jazz. Tom begann in der 4. Klasse Klavier zu spielen, aber zwei Jahre später drückte ihm sein Vater das Alt-Saxophon in die Hände. Am College gründete er die Jazz-Fusion Band „No Compromise“, die Konzerte für Joe Sample, Stanley Clarke, George Howard und viele andere eröffnete. Nachdem er sein Studium summa cum laude mit einem Bachelor of Music/ Performance abgeschlossen hatte, startete er seine Solo-Karriere. 1992 veröffentlichte Tom sein Debütalbum mit dem Produzenten Bernard Wright. Bernard machte ihn mit Wayman Tisdale bekannt und Tom tourte 17 Jahre lang mit Wayman, auch als sein Musical Director. Über die Jahre ist Tom mit Künstlern wie Dave Koz, Candy Dulfer, Brian Culbertson, Bob James, George Duke, Earl Klugh, Marcus Miller, Aretha Franklin, Luther Vandross und Sheila E. aufgetreten. Der energetische, charismatische Performer weiß, wie man Fans aller Altersklassen verzaubert. Sein unverwechselbarer Klang vereint Elemente von Jazz, Latin, Funk und R&B.

O saxofonista e compositor Tom Braxton cresceu no Texas. Desde tenra idade que o pai, o saxofonista James (J.T.) Brax ton, o influenciou para o Jazz. Tom começou a tocar piano no 4º ano, mas dois anos mais tarde, o pai pôs-lhe o saxofone alto nas mãos. Na faculdade formou a banda de Jazz fusion „No Compromise“ e abriu os concertos de Joe Sample, Stan ley Clarke, George Howard e de muitos outros. Depois de concluir o Bachelor of Music/ Performance com summa cum laude, iniciou a sua carreira a solo. Em 1992, lançou o seu álbum de estreia com o pro dutor Bernard Wright. Bernard apresentou-o a Wayman Tis dale e Tom fez digressões com ele durante 17 anos, também como director musical. Até à data ele gravou nove álbuns e todos eles alcançaram os Jazz Charts. Durante anos Tom subiu ao palco com artistas como Dave Koz, Candy Dulfer, Brian Culbertson, Bob James, George Duke, Earl Klugh, Mar cus Miller, Aretha Franklin, Luther Vandross e Sheila E.. O artista enérgico e carismático sabe como seduzir fãs de todas as faixas etárias. O seu som in confundível une elementos do Jazz, Latin, Funk e R&B.

Facts

Image: Keiko Matsui

Keiko Matsui, internacionalmente aclamada, pianista no topo das listas musicais, compositora e filantrópica, teve a sua primeira aula de piano aos 5 anos. Hoje, al gumas décadas depois, já vendeu um milhão e meio de álbuns e os seus concertos continuam a esgotar no mundo inteiro. Em 1987, lançou o seu álbum de estreia que gravou nos EUA. Desde então, a admirável e delicada, mas dinâmica artista já trabalhou com quase todos – desde Miles Davis e Stevie Wonder a Hugh Masekela, Bob James, Kirk Whalum e muitos outros. Ela é uma cidadã do mundo que sempre quis transcender fronteiras e construir pontes entre pessoas que partilham uma apreciação da verdadeira arte e do intercâmbio cultural. O seu novo CD está re pleto de melodias de „uma outra dimensão“, esclarece Keiko. „Eu gostaria de dar a mais bonita e emocional experiência. Eu própria fiquei surpreendida com a lumi nosidade e a alegria da música. Ela reflete o meu estado de espírito neste preciso momento“, afirma Keiko. Ela concebeu mais de 100 melodias e motivos diferentes para este álbum e decidiu-se finalmente pelas dez faixas que compõem o CD. A exímia contadora de histórias Keiko compõe canções românticas com harmonias exuberantes para criar hinos intemporais.

Die international bejubelte, Chart stürmende Pianistin, Komponistin und Menschenfreundin Keiko Matsui bekam ihre erste Klavierstunde mit 5. Heute, Jahrzehnte später, hat sie über anderthalb Millionen Alben verkauft und weltweit sind die Konzerthallen bei ihren Auftritten bis unters Dach gefüllt. Das Album, mit dem sie ihr US-Debüt gab, erschien 1987. Seither hat das bemerkenswerte, zierliche Kraftpaket mit fast jedem gearbeitet – von Miles Davis und Stevie Wonder zu Hugh Masekela, Bob James, Kirk Whalum und vielen mehr. Sie ist eine wahre Weltbürgerin, die immer Grenzen überschreiten und Brücken bauen wollte zwischen Menschen, die eine Wertschätzung für ehrliche Kunst und kulturellen Austausch teilen. Ihre neueste CD ist voll von Melodien aus „einer anderen Dimension“. erklärt Keiko. „Ich möchte Zuhörern das schönste und emotionalste Erlebnis bescheren. Ich war selbst ganz erstaunt, wie hell und glücklich die Musik ist. Sie spiegelt wider, an welchem Punkt meines Lebens ich selbst gerade stehe“, sagt Keiko. Sie konzipierte über 100 verschiedene Melodien und Motive für dieses Album und entschied sich schließlich für die zehn Themen auf der CD. Meisterhafte Geschichtenerzählerin, die sie ist, hat Keiko aus leidenschaftlichen Songs mit üppigen Harmonien und globalen Rhythmen zeitlose Hymnen geschaffen.

27 solo albums | Over 1.5 million albums sold worldwide | 3 Top3 hits plus No.1 & 8 Top10 albums at the Billboard jazz charts Discography Journey To The Heart (2016) Live In Tokyo (2015) Soul Quest (2013) Altair & Vega (2011) The Road... (2011) The Best of Keiko Matsui (2008) Moyo (2007) Walls of Akendora (2005) Wildflower (2004) White Owl (2003) The Piano (2003) The Ring (2002) A Gift of Life (2001) Deep Blue (2001) Whisper from the Mirror (2000) Keiko Matsui Live (1999) Full Moon and the Shrine (1998) Keiko Matsui Collection (1997) A Gift of Hope (1997) Dream Walk (1996) Sapphire (1995) Doll (1994) Cherry Blossom (1992, 2003) Night Waltz (1991) No Borders (1990) Under Northern Lights (1989) A Drop of Water (1987, 1993, 2003) www.keikomatsui.com

Keiko Matsui Keiko Matsui live at Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Sunday, 1.October, 12:30 h Internationally acclaimed, chart topping pianist, composer and humanitarian Keiko Matsui took her first piano lesson at five. Fast forward some decades, she has sold over a million and a half albums and continues to sell out concerts across the globe. The album, she made her US recording debut with, was released in 1987. Since then, the striking, petite powerhouse has worked alongside everyone from Miles Davis and Stevie Wonder to Hugh Masekela, Bob James, Kirk Whalum and many more. Being a world citizen, she has always wanted to transcend borders and build bridges among people who share an appreciation of honest artistry and cultural exchange. Her latest CD delivers melodies that seem to come from another dimension. “I want to deliver the most beautiful and emotional experience. I was even amazed myself at just how bright and happy the music is. It reflects where I am right now”, says Keiko. She conceived over 100 different melodies and motifs for that album and eventually settled on the ten themes featured on the CD. A master storyteller, Keiko crafts passionate songs with lush harmonies and global rhythms to create timeless musical anthems.

Keiko Matsui | Artists 15

Chris Miskel – Drums www.chrismiskel.com

Elle Cato – Vocals www.ellecato.com

Ron Reinhardt – Keyboards www.facebook.com/ron.reinhardt.5

16 Artists | Featured musicians

Images: Chris Miskel, Leighton Grant, Nate Philipps, Ron Reinhardt, Rene Van Der Voorden, K.T. Jones

Nate Philipps – Bass

Gerey Johnson – Guitar www.gereyjohnson.net

FEATURED MUSICIANS

Marius Goldhammer – Bass www.mariusgoldhammer.net

Featured musicians | Artists 17

Lutz Deterra – Keyboards www.deterra.de

Eric Valentine – Drums www.velvetgroovemusic.com

18 Artists | Featured musicians

FEATURED MUSICIANS Images: Christian Nordström (2), Eric Valentine, Orefo Orakwue, Marqueal Jordan, Westley Joseph

Orefo Orakwue – Bass www.orefo.com

Marqueal Jordan – Saxophone www.marquealjordan.com

Marc Jaimes – Guitar www.facebook.com/mark.jaimes.37

Westley Joseph – Drums www.facebook.com/westley.joseph

Featured musicians | Artists 19

Home of the Festival

VILA VITA Parc Resort & Spa Com a sua arquitectura de inspiração mourisca, este resort, do grupo VILA VITA e membro do “The Leading Hotels of the World”, erguese majestosamente sobre a costa rochosa algar via, em 22 hectares de jardins subtropicais, recebendo os seus hóspedes com serviço personalizado e verdadeira hospitalidade portuguesa.

O VILA VITA Parc não só tem os ingredientes perfeitos para as suas férias, como oferece também o ambiente ideal para eventos e celebrações especiais. Uma localização de sonho, para expe riências inesquecíveis!

With its Moorish-inspired architecture, the flagship of the VILA VITA group – one of the “Leading Hotels of the World” – sits in splendour high above the rocky coast of the Algarve. Situated amidst 22 hectares of subtropical parkland, the 5-star hideaway welcomes its guests with individual service and true Portuguese hospitality. You have the choice of luxurious rooms and suites as well as spacious villas with their own pool. The culinary delights served in the ten restaurants range from rustic Portuguese specialities to award-winning gourmet cuisine. Various bars, a café, a wine cellar and a German beer garden offer a wide variety of taste experiences, while the wellness area is a haven of peace, relaxation and recuperation. A perfect day is guaranteed by teeing off on the greens of the surrounding golf courses in the year-round golfing paradise of the Algarve – as well as enjoying tennis, yacht trips, the beach and the ocean. Not only does VILA VITA Parc have all the ingredients for the perfect holiday, but it is also the perfect backdrop for special celebrations and events. A dream location for unforgettable experiences!

20 Location | VILA VITA Parc Resort & Spa

All images: Vila Vita Parc

Poderá escolher entre quartos e suites, ou villas espaçosas com piscina privativa. As delícias servidas nos dez restaurantes vão desde especialidades regionais portuguesas a cozinha gourmet premiada. Diversos bares, um Café, uma Cave de Vinhos e um Jar dim da Cerveja alemão oferecem uma variedade de escolha, e a área de bem estar é um retiro de paz e relaxamento. Um dia per feito é garantido nos campos de golfe do Algarve, o paraíso dos golfistas, durante todo o ano. Para além disso, poderá dedicarse a outras atividades como o ténis, excursões no Iate VILA VITA, ati vidades náuticas diversas, praia e o oceano.

Das Flaggschiﬀ der VILA VITA Gruppe, Mitglied der „Leading Hotels of the World”, thront mit seiner maurisch inspirierten Architektur hoch über der Felsenküste der portugiesischen Algarve. Inmitten eines 22 Hektar großen, subtropischen Parks begrüßt das 5-SterneHideaway seine Gäste mit individuellem Service und gelebter portugiesischer Gastfreundschaft. Sowohl luxuriöse Zimmer und Suiten als auch großzügige Villen mit eigenem Pool stehen für Gäste zur Wahl. Von rustikalen portugiesischen Spezialitäten bis hin zur Sterne-Gourmetküche reicht die kulinarische Vielfalt der zehn Restaurants. Daneben sorgen diverse Bars, ein Café, ein Weinkeller und ein Biergarten für abwechslungsreiche Geschmackserlebnisse. Der Wellnessbereich ist eine Oase der Ruhe, Entspannung und Erholung. Einen perfekten Tag garantieren viele Abschläge an den Greens der umliegenden Golfplätze im ganzjährigen Golf-Eldorado Algarve sowie Tennis, Yachtausflüge, Strand und Ozean. Das VILA VITA Parc hat nicht nur alle Zutaten zum Traumurlaub, sondern bietet auch die ideale Kulisse für besondere Feierlichkeiten und Events. Eine wahre Traumlocation für unvergessliche Erlebnisse.

VILA VITA Parc Resort & Spa | Location 21

Rooftop terrace in the Oasis Parc

A new Smooth Jazz Festival was born. All images: Christian Nordstrรถm & Vila Vita Parc

Fine food & wine

Rick Braun in the crowd

22 Smooth Lifestyle | Review Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2016

REVIEW Will Donato & Matt Marshak

Sara Gazarek

1st Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 at VILA VITA Parc Resort & Spa Welcome dinner

David Benoit

Vincent Ingala

Althea RenĂŠ

Peter White

Vincent Ingala

Michael Manson

Review Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 | Smooth Lifestyle 23

REVIEW

Spyro Gyra

Smooth Jazz Festival Mallorca 2017:

All Stars on stage Review by Peter Böhi of smoothjazzvibes.com Images by Peter Böhi & Christian Nordström

The show was hosted by keyboardist Brian Simpson. They opened the concert with all players on stage, before the individual players were featured in smaller settings, supported by keyboardist Lutz Deterra, bassist Marius Goldhammer, guitarist Christoph Lindner and drummer Heiko Braun. But the drum seat changed frequently, adding in Marcus Finnie and the legendary Harvey Mason, both playing several nice solos. We got an incredible variety of music, each of the players brought his own style to the table, particularly enjoyable were the young Grace Kelly with her energetic playing, funking up “Amazing Grace”, and saxophonist and flutist Nelson Rangell delivering an awesome rendition of Hampton Hawes’ “Sonora”, whistling and piccolo flute included, with a great solo by Alex Bugnon. Violonist Ken Ford brought the house down with the EWF classic “Can’t Hide Love”, while Alex Bugnon scored with his own classic “107° In The Shade”, recreating a great 70ies jazz-funk feeling. Jeff Kashiwa played some beautiful tenor, while Warren Hill took the Beatles’ classic “Hey Jude” to the next level, with some audience participation. Guitarist Norman Brown delivered “On Broadway” in style, with a nod to George Benson. The show concluded with the funky Hancock classic “Chameleon”, having all

24 Smooth Lifestyle | Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017

Images: Christian Nordström

The 6th annual Smooth Jazz Festival Mallorca kicked off with the Smooth Jazz All-Stars, a show that unites most of the players of the festival on one stage. The event usually is held in the unfinished church Església Nova in Son Servera open air, but due to some unexpected cold and rainy weather, it took place at the festival’s main venue, the 5-star Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa, which was fine with me.

players on stage, bringing a great show to a rousing end. This was a great festival start, lots of more great shows ahead! Friday night, keyboardist Brian Simpson was playing, supported by Marcus Finnie (drums), Marius Goldhammer (bass), Christoph Lindner (guitar), Lutz Deterra (keys; hereafter referred to as “festival band A”), plus Rene Junior on sax, a young player from the Czech Republic that contacted Simpson three weeks before the show and was allowed to sit in. The band went through a string of Brian’s hits, among them “Persuasion” and others, with lots of great solos by all involved, especially Rene blended in well with his soulful, smooth tenor sax playing. During the last groovy song people got up to dance, a bunch of girls went onto the stage to dance along Brian, when an enthusiastic male fan joined in and stole the show with his expressive dancing, ending an entertaining set. Next was saxophonist Warren Hill, his band consisted of Heiko Braun (drums), Mark Jaimes (guitar), Orefo Orakwue (bass) and Oli Silk (keys; hereafter referred to as “festival band B”). He kicked off his show with the Beatles classic “Come Together”, followed by a string of his own compositions, especially “Mambo 2000” raised the heat considerably and is

Brian Simpson

Warren Hill

Nelson Rangell

Norman Brown

always a joy to listen to, while the “Passion Theme” slowed things down nicely. Another highlight was his cover of Foreigner’s “I Wanna Know What Love Is”, soulfully sung by his daughter Oli via Rox who joined her dad as a surprise guest. After this one, she sung one of her own songs that soon will be released on her first CD. They kept on rocking with Edgar Winter’s “Frankenstein” and Led Zeppelin’s “Black Dog”, before they closed the show with the inevitable “Play That Funky Music” having everybody getting off their seats. What a great show this was! Saturday night, saxophonist and flutist Nelson Rangell did his show, supported by festival band B. He opened his show full steam with Stevie Wonder’s “Another Star” playing with unbridled passion and flawless technique, before he did one of his own compositions, kicking things up again with EWF’s “Can’t Hide Love”. Things slowed down with Earl Klugh’s “Vonetta” beautifully played on the flute, and the awesome Hampton Hawes track “Sonora” that was perfectly whistled, plus a nice solo on the piccolo flute. Another highlight was Chick Corea’s “Spain” played on the flute, with a great acoustic solo by Mark Jaimes. Later he played “Turning Night Into Day”, one of his big hits during his stint with GRP Records. They finished the show with the Crusaders classic “Put It Where You Want It”. This was a very fine show by a consummate artist. Next was guitarist Norman Brown, who needs no introduction. He has not only a string of solo albums, but also a few successful collaboration projects with BWB, West Coast Jam and others. With a brand new CD just out, he was ready to play. He joined stage with festival band A, plus Brian Simpson on keyboards. His enthusiastic high energy playing drew the crowd right in. He went through songs like “Better Days Ahead”, “After The Storm”, “For The Love Of You” and more, an especially enjoyable part of

Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 | Smooth Lifestyle 25

Grace Kelly

Harvey Mason

the show was when he paid tribute to his influen ces, playing some Jimi Hendrix, followed by Wes Montgomery (“Bumpin’ On Sunset”) and George Benson (“This Masquerade”). He played a couple of songs from his new release Let It Go, “It Keeps Coming Back”, a groovy track boasting his typical guitar style, and a solo cover of Michael Jackson’s “Man In The Mirror” that was a nice change of pace. He finished his set with “That’s The Way Love Goes” having people off their seats, an encore was requested and given with Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On”, leaving a satisfied crowd. Sunday morning, saxophonist Grace Kelly appeared with festival band A, plus special guest Brian Simpson on keyboards for a couple of songs. She brought things nicely up to speed with her rendition of the Jackson classic “Billy Jean” and a funked up version of “Summertime”, before she featured her voice to sing songs like “Trying To Figure It Out” from her latest CD and the beautiful, introspective “Touched By An Angel”. She showed her affection with current pop music in the following segment of her show, doing an instrumental cover of Sia’s

26 Smooth Lifestyle | Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017

“Chandelier”, then singing Coldplay’s “Magic” which was not exactly my cup of tea. Anyway, she more than made up for it with the lively instrumental “Lemon’s Make Lemonade” that had a nice Sadao Watanabe feeling, and the encore, a great version of “Georgia On My Mind”, finishing an entertaining and varied show.

Alex Bugnon

The second show on Sunday morning featured two veterans of the scene, keyboardist Alex Bugnon and drummer Harvey Mason, backed by festival band B, plus special guest Miguel Ramon on saxophone. They started with “Take Five”, followed by “The World Is A Ghetto”, before they funked it up with Herbie Hancock’s “Actual Proof”, perfect material for those veteran players that represent the 70ies jazz-funk period well. A highlight of the show was Bugnon’s heartfelt rendition of “A House Is Not A Home” that pulled all the stops. Another good one was his funkadelic/parliament medley, showing where his musical heart lies. Mason not only provided a rock solid backdrop, he delivered several awesome drum solos exploring the sounds of his instrument in all directions. They funked it up with “Watermelon Man”, done in a decidedly Headhunters style with some funky bass by Orefo Orakwue, finishing their show with Grover Washington Jr.’s “Mr. Magic” featuring the sax of Ramon. They returned for an encore, doing Herbie Hancock’s “Chameleon”, another track where Harvey Mason played on the original recording. This was an outstanding show by two excellent players offering lots of improvisation and interplay.

Ken Ford

Sunday night started with violinist Ken Ford, being supported by festival band B. He kicked off his show with “State Of Mind”, providing some great violin playing and energetic stage presence, moving all across the stage constantly. He did a cool rendition of Stevie Wonder’s “All I Do”, before he got really serious with Kool & The Gang’s “Summer Madness”, pulling all the stops. Another highlight was Ramsey Lewis’ “Sun Goddess”, another musical milestone he did ample justice, with a great solo by Oli Silk in the spirit of the original. A few more songs from his catalog, among them “Butter”, plus a stroll into the audience which led to the conclusion of the show, the inevitable “Moments In Love” which has become his trademark song. This was a high energy show by a great and entertaining player. Closing the night were Acoustic Alchemy, the legendary guitar duo that helped shaping the whole genre. Leader Greg Carmichael along will fellow guitarist Miles Gilderdale were in fine form, the band consisted of Gary Grainger (bass) and Greg Grainger (drums), plus Anthony White (keys). Celebrating 30 years as a band, they went through several of their classic songs like “Mr. Chow” and many others, delivering tons of great solos on acoustic and electric guitars, propelled by a top-notch band. For the last

Acoustic Alchemy

Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 | Smooth Lifestyle 27

Jeff Kashiwa

two songs, saxophonist Jeff Kashiwa joined the band. Their catalog stood the test of time well and it was a joy to witness those musicians playing their songs with aplomb and finesse. Saxophonist Jeff Kashiwa opened the early set on Monday morning, supported by festival band A. He kicked off his show with the funky “Let It Ride”, later showing his sensual side with “Quiet Goodbye” on the alto sax, one of the highlights was “The Asian Persuasion” played on the flute, with a middle part employing the EWI (electronic wind instrument). He later introduced the EWI further, before he played “Around The World” on it. He raised the heat with “Three Day Weekend” and the funky “Hot Tin Roof” playing some mean tenor sax, winding up this great show. He came back for an encore, doing his biggest hit “Hyde Park (The ‘Ah, Oooh’ Song)” inviting Grace Kelly who happened to be in the audience onto the stage to join him for some awesome scatting, finishing a perfect show. The second show on Monday morning was done by the German group Nighthawks led by bassist Dal Martino. Co-leader Reiner Winterschladen was replaced by Ryan Camiaux, a capable trumpet player from New York. The rest of the band consisted of regular members Jürgen Dahmen (keys), Thomas Alkier (drums) and Jörg Lehnhardt (guitar). They went through several of their sweeping songs, with lots of nice solos, especially by guitarist Lehnhardt. Their unique brand of music is totally captivating and was well received by the crowd. This show marked the end of the festival for me, I had to leave in the afternoon to catch my flight and be back home in time for work the next day. Unfortunately, I had to do without the evening shows of rising smooth jazz star guitarist Adam Hawley and veteran band Spyro Gyra who were touring Europe at that time. Nevertheless, this year provided numerous memorable musical moments by many of the finest artists in the genre, this festival is getting better each year. Add the hospitality of the hotel, the unrestricted and friendly atmosphere of the event, the many music friends from all over the world, and you get one of the best smooth jazz festivals you can find anywhere.

28 Smooth Lifestyle | Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017

Adam Hawley

Nighthawks

Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017Festival Partner 29

Hans-Bernd Hülsmann presents:

Smooth Music all around ... wonderful jazz, introspective vocals, lifestyle soundtracks for us all to incorporate into our days, nights and weekends. Here is a list of my personal favorites so far this year! Reviews by Hans-Bernd Hülsmann of Smooth & Soul - Your guide to the world of smooth jazz (smooth-jazz.de)

BONEy JAMES – Honestly Boney James is called a superstar. After George Benson gave us the night and Fourplay touched the sky, a rare term for a smooth jazz instrumentalist. On September 1, 2017, Boney James has released his 16th album entitled Honestly. The title describes Boney’s approach to music: “The word ‘honestly’ really reflects how I aspire to live my life and create my music.” For Boney, the captivating and entertaining effect of his music stands in the center of his consideration. With undeniable passion and fresh optimism Boney starts the album with the aptly title “Kicks”. A lively composition of soprano sax and drums. “Tick Tock” delves into the landscape of funk with the bass as forerunner and a great range of horn support but always keeping the flavorful sax in sight. Boney James is definitely a crowd-puller, a major magnet for the audience. When you listen to Honestly, you know the reason. His music has that certain something, which stands out from his competitors.

NAJEE – Poetry In Motion Time flies by and taste is moving. Long-term values lasting for now and future generations are rare. Najee’s music is such a seldom companion through our whole life. In this surf of changing fashion he is the rock of consistency. His newest project Poetry In Motion was released on August 25, 2017 on Shanachie Entertainment. “The Stratosphere” is the second major layer of Earth’s atmosphere, just above the troposphere, and below the mesosphere. The unique feature of this song compared to many competitors in the smooth jazz genre is the remarkable flow of the melody without any overdub or programmed superstructure. Just Najee and his instrument in pure coincidence. “Is It the Way” is featuring soul singer Eric Roberson, a highly artistically gifted vocalist in this genre. Najee assembled on his album Poetry In Motion an abundance of flawless musicianship. His work of excellence is a permanent professional standard other saxophonists have to aspire their whole lives.

30 Smooth Lifestyle | CD Reviews

JEFF KASHIWA – Fly Away Saxophonist Jeff Kashiwa will always be connected with the Rippingtons, although he already left the group in 1999 to concentrate on a solo career. This decision bore plenty of fruit with nine albums before he reunited with the Rippingtons in 2006 again. In 2004, together with Steve Cole and Kim Waters he founded The Sax Pack, a trio of saxophone headliners. This month his tenth album Fly Away has been released. “Side By Side” celebrates friendship and comradery between Jeff and his friends and his family. The spirit of mutual understanding and recognition mirrors in the uplifting tune with a strong West Coast flavor. The spacious “Fly Away” reflects the style of the Rippingtons with a keen visual imaginary often described as a powerful movie score. Jeff Kashiwa presents on Fly Away truly magnificent and thought provoking music and distinguished musicianship, a cut above standard offerings of the smooth jazz genre.

TIM BOWMAN – Into the Blue Detroit based jazz guitarist Tim Bowman always followed his own way to musically express his feelings and ideas. Since his debut album Love, Joy, Peace in 1995 he constantly makes his contribution to the smooth jazz world. After a longer hiatus he returns this year with Into The Blue on I.M. Records / Purpose Jazz, released in September, 2017. The album is brimming with greater and catchier songs as if Tim would compensate his fans for the long absence. “Tan Hermosa” (So Beautiful) is a melodic gem created in cooperation with producer and keyboardist Dana Davis, who already left a sparkling trace on several of Tim’s earlier albums. “Amazing Grace Party” is a boosting medley of the popular Gospel songs Amazing Grace and Wade in the Water featuring beside his band especially the voice of Tim Bowman Jr. in all its youthful freshness. Heartfelt love ballads run right through the album like a red thread. On Tim Bowman’s Into The Blue good vibes are guaranteed. His musical creativity and guitar mastery will blow you away.

neup Artist li nced nnou to be a 018. early 2 s th 6-mon lan p t n e paym le. b a avail

7. MALLORCA SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL 25. – 30. April 2018

* * * EUROPE’S LEGENDARY SOUL, FUNK & JAZZ PARTY SINCE 2012 * * *

WWW.MALLORCA.SMOOTHJAZZFESTIVAL.DE | PHONE +49 821 2292711

7th Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival