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

Smooth Style Magazine of the Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival on 26. April - 1. May 2017 at Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa

6 Days 2 Venues 33 Artists 13 Shows plus pre/post shows

International Line-Up feat. Platinum CD sellers, multiple Grammy-nominees, No.1 hit & album chart breakers and many more

6th Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival The Soul, Funk & Jazz-Party in Sa Coma

Festival Partner & Imprint

Presentado por: / Präsentiert von: / Presented by:

Patrocinadores / Sponsoren / Sponsors

Medios asociados / Medienpartner / Media Partner

Impresión Impressum Imprint Editor / Herausgeber / Editor smooth entertainment GmbH, Perzheimstraße 48, D-86150 Augsburg Tel. +49 (0)821 2292711, Fax +49 (0)821 2292712 info@smoothentertainment.de www.smoothentertainment.de Redacción / Redaktion / Editorial Staff: Sandra Hoffmann, Christian Bössner Director de proyecto / Projektleiter / Project Manager: Christian Bössner Diseño / Gestaltung / Layout: Conny Anders Ventas de anuncios / Anzeigenverkauf / Ad Sales: Christian Bössner Fecha de edición / Erscheinungstermin / Date of publication: 3/2017 Alle Angaben trotz sorgfältiger Bearbeitung ohne Gewähr. No responsibility is taken for the correctness of the details provided. Foto de portada / Titelfoto / Cover photo: Taso Papdakis

Amb el suport de: / Unterstützt von: / Supported by:

Contenido Inhalt Content Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival Intro .........................................................................................................................3 Saludo / Begrüßung / Salutation ..................................................................4 Programa del festival / Festivalprogramm / Festival program ...........5 Artistas / Künstler / Artists Brian Simpson | Warren Hill ........................................................................6 | 7 Nelson Rangell | Norman Brown ...............................................................8 | 9 Grace Kelly ...........................................................................................................11 Alex Bugnon | Harvey Mason ................................................................12 | 13 Ken Ford | Acoustic Alchemy ..................................................................14 | 15 Jeff Kashiwa | Nighthawks .....................................................................16 | 17 Adam Hawley | Spyro Gyra ....................................................................18 | 19 Músicos del festival / Festivalmusiker / Festival Musicians ..............20 Ubicación / Location / Location Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa ....................................................................24 Smooth Lifestyle Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 ..............................................26 Review Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2016.................................................30 Review Smooth Jazz Festival Augsburg 2016 .............................................32 CD Reseñas / CD-Tipps / CD Reviews .........................................................34 Upcoming Festivals 2017 / 2018 ....................................................................35 Intro | Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival

Good music. Good food. Good wine. Good time!

Willkommen beim MALLORCA SMOOTH JAZZ FESTVAL – dem einzigen Smooth Jazz Festival im europäischen Mittelmeerraum. Genau genommen in Sa Coma, an der wunderschönen Ostküste der spanischen Insel Mallorca. Seit Frühjahr 2012 erwartet Sie hier ein Musikfestival mit einzigartiger Live-Musik im exklusiven Ambiente des Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa. Das 5-Sterne-Hotel ist zugleich Veranstaltungsort und besticht durch seine elegante und moderne Ausstattung, einen vollwertig ausgestatteten Spa-Bereich sowie gepflegte Garten- und Poolanlagen (outdoor/indoor). Direkt am Naturpark Punta de n’Amer gelegen, ist der Strand von Sa Coma nur 300 Meter entfernt. In diesem musikalischen (Kurz-) Urlaub gilt es, die schönen Dinge des Lebens zu genießen. Gute Musik. Gutes Essen. Guter Wein. Gute Unterhaltung. Gutes Wetter. Gute Aussichten auf Erholung und ein einzigartiges Erlebnis vor der atemberaubenden Kulisse des Mittelmeers. Auf der Bühne begrüßen wir einige der größten und erfolgreichsten Stars der internationalen Contemporary und Smooth Jazz-Szene. Wir freuen uns auf eine tolle Zeit, Sandra & Christian

Welcome to the MALLORCA SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL – the only smooth jazz festival in the European Mediterranean area. Actually, in Sa Coma, on the beautiful east coast of the Spanish island Mallorca. Since spring 2012, a music festival with unique live music awaits you in the exclusive ambience of the Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa. The 5-star hotel is also the venue and is characterized by an elegant and modern equipment, a full-equipped spa area as well as landscaped gardens and swimming pools (indoor/outdoor). Located only 300 metres from the beach, right on the Punta de n’Amer natural park. This musical (short) vacation is all about enjoying the finer things in life. Good music. Good food. Good wine. Good entertainment. Good weather. Good prospects for recovery and a unique experience in the breathtaking scenery of the Mediterranean Sea. On stage, we welcome some of the biggest and most successful international stars of the Contemporary and Smooth Jazz scene. We look forward to having a great time, Sandra & Christian

Image: Christian Nordström

Bienvenidos al MALLORCA SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL, único festival de smooth jazz celebrado en el Mediterráneo, en la atractiva zona turística de Sa Coma (costa este de la isla). Un evento único con música en directo, en el exclusivo ambiente de Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa. Hotel de 5 estrellas de elegantes instalaciones, que cuenta con una completa área de spa, extensos jardines, piscina exterior y cubierta. Situado a tan sólo 300 metros de la playa, junto al parque natural “Sa Punta de n’Amer”. Unas breves vacaciones pensadas para disfrutar de la cara más positiva de la vida. Buena música. Buena comida. Buen vino. Buen entretenimiento. Buen tiempo. Una experiencia única con el impresionante paisaje Mediterráneo como telón de fondo. En el escenario damos la bienvenida a las estrellas actualmente más destacadas del panorama internacional del Jazz Contemporáneo y del Smooth Jazz. Esperamos que lo disfrutéis, Sandra y Christian

Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival | Salutation

Reservas / Reservierung / Reservation Lugares del evento / Veranstaltungsorte / Venues * Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa | C./ Baladres, 5 | 07560 Sa Coma, Mallorca ** Església Nova | Carrer de ses Creus, 4 | 07550 Son Servera, Mallorca

Eventos adicionales Rahmenprogramm Additional Program

Entradas para conciertos y Paquetes de hotel Konzerttickets & Hotelpakete Concert Tickets & Hotel Packages Ticket-Hotline: (+34) 971 587 520 | www.mallorca.smoothjazzfestival.de

Miércoles, 26 de abril / Mittwoch, 26. April / Wednesday, April 26 19:30 h 21:30 h

Conciertos En Vivo Live-Konzerte Live Concerts

Cena Gala Bienvenida con los ARTISTAS* Willkommens-Gala-Dinner mit den KÜNSTLERN* Welcome Gala Dinner with the ARTISTS* Concierto Pre-Festival en el Piano Bar* Pre-Festivalkonzert in der Piano Bar* Pre-festival concert at the Piano Bar*

Jueves, 27 de abril / Donnerstag, 27. April / Thursday, April 27

10:00 h Viaje en bus a una tradicional fábrica de aceite de oliva Bus-Trip in eine traditionelle Olivenöl-Fabrik Bus trip to a traditional Olive Oil Factory

20:30 h 21:00 h

Viernes, 28 de abril / Freitag, 28. April / Friday, April 28

10:00 h Viaje en bus a Palma de Mallorca Bus-Trip nach Palma de Mallorca Bus trip to Palma de Mallorca

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

Sábado, 29 de abril / Samstag, 29. April / Saturday, April 29

10:00 h Actividades diversas de anfitrión* Div. Aktivitäten auf dem Hotelgelände* Several activities on the hotel area*

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

Domingo, 30 de abril / Sonntag, 30. April / Sunday, April 30

10:00 h Actividades diversas de anfitrión* Div. Aktivitäten auf dem Hotelgelände* Several activities on the hotel area*

10:30 h Entrada / Einlass / Entrance* 11:00 h GRACE KELLY 12:30 h ALEX BUGNON & HARVEY MASON 20:15 h 20:45 h 22:15 h 23:45 h

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance** SMOOTH JAZZ ALLSTARS presented by BRIAN SIMPSON featuring NORMAN BROWN, WARREN HILL, HARVEY MASON, ALEX BUGNON, KEN FORD, JEFF KASHIWA, GRACE KELLY & NELSON RANGELL (Open-air concert in Església Nova, Son Servera)

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance* BRIAN SIMPSON WARREN HILL Aftershow Chillout (DJ Richard Edwards)

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance* NELSON RANGELL NORMAN BROWN Aftershow Chillout (DJ Richard Edwards)

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance* KEN FORD ACOUSTIC ALCHEMY Aftershow Chillout (DJ Richard Edwards)

Lunes, 1 de mayo / Montag, 1. Mai / Monday, May 1

21:30 h Concierto Post-Festival en el Piano Bar* Post-Festivalkonzert in der Piano Bar* Post-festival concert at the Piano Bar*

10:30 h Entrada / Einlass / Entrance* 11:00 h JEFF KASHIWA 12:30 h NIGHTHAWKS 20:15 h 20:45 h 22:15 h 23:45 h

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance* ADAM HAWLEY SPYRO GYRA Aftershow Chillout (DJ Richard Edwards)

Festival program | Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival

Facts 5 Top10 hits & 3 Top10 albums at the Billbaord jazz charts Winner American Smooth Jazz Keyboardist of the Year award

Brian Simpson

Discography

Brian Simpson ist Keyboarder, Komponist, Produzent und überaus produktiver Studiomusiker. Seine Stärke ist seine Fähigkeit, unvergessliche Melodien und unwiderstehliche Grooves zu erschaffen. Brians gefühlvoller Umgang mit Musik, sein beredtes Spielgefühl, die raffinierten Harmonien, gepaart mit bluesigen Obertönen, einem Hauch R&B und einer gehörigen Portion Gespür dafür, was einen Song, der am Puls der Zeit schlägt, ausmacht, haben ihn zur ersten Anlaufstelle für Größen wie George Duke, Stanley Clarke, Larry Carlton, Billy Cobham, Gerald Albright, Norman Brown, Boney James, Everette Harp und nicht zuletzt Dave Koz gemacht. Letzteren begleitete er fast 20 Jahre lang als Musical Director. Er hat nie aufgehört, als Jazzmusiker zu arbeiten, auch wenn er sich zwischenzeitlich auf Welttourneen wiederfand mit Pop-Diven wie Teena Marie, Sheena Easton and Janet Jackson. Und auf deren Bühnen hörte sein Aufbruch in die Pop-Welt nicht auf: 1991 schrieb er an dem # 1 Pop-Hit „The First Time“ von Surface mit, der sowohl die R&B- als auch die Adult Contemporary-Charts eroberte. Aufgewachsen ist Brian in Gurnee, Illinois – seit seinem Abschluss an der Northern Illinois University lebt er jedoch in Los Angeles. Er hat immer gewusst, dass Musik in seinem Leben die Hauptrolle spielen würde. „Unser Haus war erfüllt von Musik. Ich habe nie wirklich ein anderes Leben in Betracht gezogen«, sagt er. Seinen eigenen Durchbruch als Solokünstler schaffte er 2005 mit dem # 1 Radio-Hit „It‘s All Good“. 2017 sollte er mit der Veröffentlichung von „Persuasion“ erneut als einer der aufregendsten und innovativsten Pioniere der zeitgenössischen Jazzszene von sich reden machen.

Artists | Brian Simpson

Image: Greg Allen

Brian Simpson live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Friday, 28. April, 20:45 h & on Thursday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

Persuasion (2017) Out Of A Dream (2015) Just What You Need (2013) South Beach (2010) Above The Clouds (2007) It‘s All Good (2005) Closer Still (1995) www.bsimpsonmusic.com

Through the years, keyboardist, composer, prolific studio musician and producer Brian Simpson has been revered for his ability to compose unforgettable melodies and irresistible grooves. Brian’s soulful approach to music, his eloquent approach to playing, sophisticated harmonics sense, bluesy overtones, R&B flavor and keen sense of how to craft a song that stands the test of time have made him first call for many big names, including George Duke, Stanley Clarke, Larry Carlton, Billy Cobham, Gerald Albright, Norman Brown, Boney James, Everette Harp and, last but not least, Dave Koz, whose musical director he had been for close to 20 years. A chart-topping musical chameleon who has always been a working jazz musician, even when he found himself touring the world with pop divas Teena Marie, Sheena Easton and Janet Jackson. And his foray into the pop world didn’t end there; in 1991, he co-wrote the #1 Pop hit “The First Time” by Surface, which conquered both the R&B and Adult Contemporary charts. Hailing from Gurnee, Illinois, but having lived in Los Angeles since having gradu ated from Northern Illinois University, Brian always knew music would play center stage in his life. “Our house was filled with music. I never really considered any other lifestyle,” he says. His own breakthrough as a solo artist began in 2005 with the #1 radio hit “It’s All Good.” With the release of “Per suasion”, 2017 should prove to be a year Brian Simpson further asserts himself as one of the most thrilling and innovative pioneers on the contemporary jazz scene.

Brian Simpson es teclista, compositor, productor y un músico de sesión altamente productivo. Su punto fuerte es su capacidad de crear melodías inolvidables y grooves irresistibles. El tratamientio sensible de la música de Brian, su persuasivo sentimiento al tocar, las armonías sofisticadas emparejadas a los tonos blues, un toque de R&B más una ración fuerte de percepción en cuanto a lo que debe contener una canción para que lleve el pulso de la época, le convierten en la primera dirección para autoridades como George Duke, Stanley Clarke, Larry Carlton, Billy Cobham, Gerald Albright, Norman Brown, Boney James, Everette Harp y finalmente para Dave Koz. Al último le ha acompañado casi 20 años como director musical. Nunca ha dejado de ser un músico de jazz a pesar de reencontrarse en este tiempo también en giras mundiales con divas del pop como Teena Marie, Sheena Easton y Janet Jackson. Y sus excursiones en el mundo pop han sido más que sólo compartir los escenarios con estas: En 1991 colabora escribiendo el éxito pop no. 1 „The First Time“ de Surface, el cual conquista los rankings de R&B así como los de Adult Contemporary. Brian creció en Gurnee, Illinois – sin embargo, ha vivido en Los Angeles desde su graduación en la Northern Illinois University. Siempre ha sabido que la música juega el papel principal en su vida. “Nuestra casa estaba llena de música. Realmente nunca he tomado en consideración otra vida,” dice. Su aparición en la escena como solista la logra en el 2005, con el éxito no. 1 de la radio „It’s All Good“. Es de esperar que en 2017, con el lanzamiento de „Persuasion“, otra vez dé mucho que hablar como uno de los pioneros más excitantes y innovadores de la escena contemporánea del jazz.

Image: Warren Hill

He’s the rocker among the Smooth Jazz artists: Canadian born Saxophonist Warren Hill‘s first instruments were guitar and vocals. By the age of 13 he was already the frontman of a local Toronto rock band, singing Led Zeppelin and Rush. It was at the age of 17 that he was introduced to jazz music by David Sanborn, Michael Brecker and Charlie Parker. From that point on he went full on into studying the saxophone. With the release of his last CD entitled “Under The Influence” he is revisiting his roots. The CD is a collection of classic rock covers from the ‚70‘s featuring hits from iconic bands such as Aerosmith, Queen, and The Police. Applying his dynamic style of sax to songs that influenced his musical upbringing, he particularly targets the songs from his teenage rock band. For those born in the 50‘s and 60‘s, this CD will be like a trip down memory lane. For everyone else, well... “there is a reason they call it Classic Rock... because almost everyone on the planet knows these songs - they are timeless!”, says Warren. His career spans almost three decades now. Hill‘s solo CD‘s and collaborations have topped three different charts: Pop, Adult Contemporary and Smooth Jazz. He has garnered multiple awards and his dynamic live show has brought him to over 25 countries performing over 1.500 shows. When he is not recording or touring, Warren and his wife Tamara homeschool their daughter Olivia - also an incredibly talented singer/songwriter with a big music career in the works.

Warren Hill Er ist der Rocker unter den Smooth-Jazzern: Die ersten Instrumente des in Toronto/Kanada geborenen Saxophonisten Warren Hill waren Gitarre und seine Stimme. Mit 13 war er bereits Frontman einer lokalen Rockband und sang Songs von Led Zeppelin und Rush. Erst mit 17 kam er durch David Sanborn, Michael Brecker und Charlie Parker mit Jazz in Berührung. Von da an hat er sich dann voll ins Saxophon gestürzt. Mit der Veröffentlichung seiner letzten CD „Under The Influence“ hat er aber einen Abstecher zurück zu seinen Wurzeln gemacht. Die CD ist eine Kollektion mit Covern klassischer Rocksongs aus den 70ern, darunter Hits von Aerosmith, Queen und The Police. Er interpretiert die Lieder, die ihn in seinen Anfangsjahren beeinflusst haben, mit seinem dynamischen Sax-Style und zielt dabei vor allem auf die Songs seiner Teenager-Rockband ab. Für alle, die in den 50ern und 60ern geboren sind, ist diese CD eine Reise zurück in die Vergangenheit. Für alle anderen…: „Es gibt einen Grund, warum man das Classic Rock nennt: Weil fast jeder auf diesem Planeten diese Songs kennt – sie sind zeitlos“, meint Warren, dessen Karriere nun fast drei Jahrzehnte umspannt. Seine Solo-Alben und Projekte mit anderen Künstlern haben vorderste Plätze in drei verschiedenen Charts erobert: Pop, Adult Contemporary und Smooth Jazz. Er hat diverse Auszeichnungen gewonnen und seine dynamische Live-Show hat ihm bis dato über 1.500 Auftritte in über 25 Ländern beschert. Wenn er nicht gerade im Studio oder auf Tour ist, unterrichten er und seine Frau Tamara ihre Tochter Olivia zu Hause. Sie ist ebenfalls eine talentierte Sängerin und Songwriterin und bastelt gerade an einer Musikkarriere.

Warren Hill live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Friday, 28. April, 22:15 h & on Thursday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

Facts Over 1 Million albums sold 7 Top10 albums at the Billboard Jazz Chart Discography Under The Influence (2015) Play It Like You Mean It (2012) La Dolce Vita (2008) A Saxophone For Christmas (2006) PopJazz (2005) A Warren Hill Christmas (2003) Love Songs (2002) Love Life (2000) Life Thru Rose Colored Glasses (1998) Shelter (1997) Truth (1995) Devotion (1993) Kiss Under The Moon (1991) www.warrenhill.com

El es el rockero entre los artistas del smooth jazz: Los primeros instrumentos del saxofonista Warren Hill, nacido en Toronto/Kanada, eran la guitarra y su voz. A los 13 años ya era el frontman de un grupo local de rock y cantó canciones de Led Zeppelin y Rush. Recién a los 17 años entró en contacto con el jazz a través de David Sanborn, Michael Brecker y Charlie Parker. A partir de entonces “se vuelca” exclusivamente al saxófono. Sin embargo, con la publicación de su último CD, „Under The Influence“, hace una excursión a su pasado y sus raíces. El CD es una colección de versiones propias de canciones rock clásicas de los años 70, entre ellas éxitos de Aerosmith, Queen y The Police. Con su estilo dinámico en el sax interpreta las canciones que le influenciaron en sus primeros años y se concentra sobre todo en aquellas de su grupo rock cuando joven. Para todos los que nacieron en los años 50 y 60 este CD es un viaje de regreso al pasado. Para todos los demás…: „Hay una razón por la que se las llama rock clásico: Porque casi cada uno en esta planeta conoce estas canciones – son intemporales“, opina Warren. Hasta ahora su carrera abarca casi tres décadas. Sus álbumes como solista y sus proyectos con otros artistas conquistaron primeros lugares en tres rankings diferentes: pop, adult contemporary y smooth jazz. Ha recibido diversos reconocimientos y la dinámica de su actuación en vivo le ha proporcionado más de 1500 actuaciones en más de 25 países. Si no está trabajando en un estudio o haciendo una gira se dedica con su mujer Tamara a enseñar a su hija Olivia en casa. Ella es también una cantante y cantautora talentosa y está dedicándose a construir una carrera musical.

Warren Hill | Artists

Nelson Rangell

Image: Galen

Nelson Rangell live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Saturday, 29. April, 20:45 h & on Thursday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

Nelson Rangell ist einer der aufregendsten und vielfältigsten Performer des Genres, gleichermaßen geschickt auf Sopran-, Alt- sowie Tenorsaxophon und ein echter Virtuose auf Flöte und Piccolo. Nelson spielt Flöte seit er 15 ist. Innerhalb von sechs Monaten studierte er an der Interlochen Arts Academy, einem nationalen Camp für begabte Musikstudenten, Klassik und Jazz. Danach besuchte er das New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. Als Student gewann er zweimal sowohl als bester Jazz- als auch als bester Pop/Rock-Instrumentalsolist den National Student Recording Awards-Wettbewerb des Beat Magazins. Nach dem College ging er 1984 nach New York, um weiter an seiner Karriere zu arbeiten. Die nächsten vier Jahre spielte er an der Seite von Jazzgrößen wie Hiram Bullock, Jorge Dalto, Eric Gale, Richard Tee, Jaco Pastorius, David Sanborn und vielen anderen. Gelegentlich arbeitete er auch mit dem legendären Gil Evans Monday Night Orchestra. Sein Debütalbum veröffentlichte Rangell 1987. Seitdem hat er mit vielen weiteren berühmten Künstlern auf der Bühne gestanden, darunter etwa The Rippingtons, Earl Klugh, Brian Bromberg, Vlad Girshevich, Chuck Loeb, Patti Austin und Tom Browne. Nelson Rangell is one of the most exciting and diverse performers in the genre, equally adept at soprano, alto, and tenor saxophone, as well as being a genuine virtuoso on flute and piccolo. Nelson first played flute at the age of 15. Within six months he was studying both classical and jazz music at The Interlochen Arts Academy, a national camp for gifted music students. He went on to attend The New England Conservatory of Music in Boston. As a student he twice won Down Beat Magazine‘s prestigious National Student Recording Awards competition both as best jazz and best pop/rock instrumental soloist. After college he headed to New York in 1984 to pursue his career. The next four years were spent sitting in, playing alongside, and gigging with some of the world‘s greatest contemporary jazz musicians including Hiram Bullock, Jorge Dalto, Eric Gale, Richard Tee, Jaco Pastorius, David Sanborn and many others. He also found occasional employment with the legendary Gil Evans Monday Night Orchestra. Rangell‘s debut album was released 1987. Since then, he has worked together with a lot of famous artists, e.g. The Rippingtons, Earl Klugh, Brian Bromberg, Vlad Girshevich, Chuck Loeb, Patti Austin and Tom Browne.

10 Artists | Nelson Rangell

Nelson Rangell es uno de los artistas más emocionantes y polifacéticos del género y sabe tocar con la misma agilidad el saxófono soprano, alto y tenor y es un auténtico virtuoso en la flauta y en el flautín. Nelson toca la flauta desde que tenía 15 años. En seis meses estudió música clásica y el jazz en la Interlochen Arts Academy, un campo nacional para estudiantes de música talentosos. Después visitó el New England Conservatory of Music en Boston. Como estudiante ganó dos veces el concurso National Student Recording Awards de la revista Beat Magazin, y eso tanto como el mejor solista instrumental del jazz como del pop y rock. Después del College, en 1984, se fue a New York para seguir trabajando en su carrera. Los cuatro años siguientes tocó al lado de unos de los mejores músicos del jazz en el mundo, como Hiram Bullock, Jorge Dalto, Eric Gale, Richard Tee, Jaco Pastorius, David Sanborn y muchos más. De vez en cuando también trabajó con el legendario Gil Evans Monday Night Orchestra. Rangell publicó su álbum debut en 1987. Desde entonces ha compartido el escenario con muchos otros artistas famosos, entre ellos The Rippingtons, Earl Klugh, Brian Bromberg, Vlad Girshevich, Chuck Loeb, Patti Austin y Tom Browne.

Facts Jazziz magazine: “An artist of depth, a master of song, and an improviser non pareil.” Recorded with The Rippingtons, Chuck Loeb, Patti Austin, Don Grusin, etc. Discography Red (2015) Blue (2015) Soul To Souls (2006) My American Songbook, Vol. 1 (2005) All Hope For Christmas (2004) Look Again (2003) Far Away Day (2000) Always (1999) The Very Best Of Nelson Rangell (1998) Turning Night Into Day (1997) Destiny (1994) Yes, Then Yes (1994) Truest Heart (1993) In Every Moment (1992) Nelson Rangell (1990) Playing For Keeps (1989) To Begin Again (1988) www.nelsonrangell.com

FACTS

Grammy-Award-Gewinner Norman Brown ist sehr eng mit seinem Publikum. Seit fast zwei Jahrzehnten ist das eine bezaubernde Beziehung, von der beide Seiten profitieren: Der Gitarrist, Komponist und Sänger bietet wahre Audio-Leckerbissen aus klassischem R&B und zeitgenössischem Jazz dar und seine Fans zerfließen mit jeder satten, jazzgebeugten Note in Glückseligkeit. Geboren in Shreveport, Louisiana, und aufgewachsen in Kansas City, kam Norman erstmals im Alter von acht Jahren mit einer Gitarre in Berührung. Inspiriert von Jimi Hendrix‘ berauschenden Rock-Klängen, entdeckte er bald auch den Lieblingskünstler seines Vaters – Wes Montgomery – und fand damit seinen stilistischen Heiligen Gral. Nach der Highschool zog Brown nach Los Angeles, um seine Musikkarriere voranzutreiben, und besuchte dort das Musicians Institute, wo er auch eine Zeit lang unterrichtete. Während er mit seiner Band in örtlichen Clubs spielte, wurde Brown entdeckt und unterzeichnete einen Plattenvertrag bei MoJazz-Label, einer Abteilung von Motown. Sein Debüt gab er 1992 mit „Just Between Us“ und veröffentlichte daraufhin noch viele andere CDs auf unterschiedlichen Labeln. „Celebration“ war die Veröffentlichung, die ihn erstmals mit dem Produzenten Paul Brown zusammenführte. Der Nachfolger aus dem Jahr 2003 – „Just Chillin‘“ – brachte Norman dann endlich die verdiente Anerkennung: einen Grammy in der Kategorie „Best Pop Instrumental“.

Norman Brown

Image: Norman Brown

Grammy Award winner Norman Brown is on close intimate terms with his audience. For almost two decades, it has been an engaging, mutually rewarding relationship, with the guitarist, composer and singer offering tasty sonic tidbits of classic R&B and contemporary jazz and his fans melting into satisfied aural bliss with every succulent, jazz inflected note. Born in Shreveport, Louisiana, and raised in Kansas City, Norman first picked up a guitar at the age of 8. Inspired by Jimi Hendrix’s mind-bending rock sounds, he soon discovered his father‘s favorite artist, Wes Montgomery, and found his stylistic holy grail. After high school, Brown moved to Los Angeles to pursue his musical career, attending the Musicians Institute where he also taught for a time. While playing with his band in local clubs, Brown was discovered and signed to the MoJazz label, a division of Motown. He delivered his 1992 debut “Just Between Us” and followed with a lot of other CDs on different labels. “Celebration” was the release, which first teamed him with producer Paul Brown. The 2003 follow-up “Just Chillin‘” earned Norman much-deserved recognition with a Grammy Award in the best pop instrumental category.

Norman Brown live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Saturday, 29. April, 22:15 h & on Thursday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

Grammy winner American Jazz Award winner 4 No.1 & 3 Top3 hits plus 2 No. 1 & 5 Top5 albums at the Billboard jazz charts DISCOGRAPHY Let It Go (2016) BWB (2016) BWB – Human Nature (2013) 24/7 (2012) Sending My Love (2010) Stay With Me (2007) The Best Of Norman Brown (2005) West Coast Coolin‘ (2004) BWB – Groovin’ (2002) Just Chillin‘ (2002) Celebration (1999) Better Days Ahead (1996) After The Storm (1994) Just Between Us (1992) www.normanbrown.com

El ganador de un Grammy Award Norman Brown está muy cerca a su público. Hace dos décadas que se trata de una relación fascinante, de la que se ambas partes aprovechan. El guitarrista, compositor y cantante ofrece verdaderos exquisitos manjares auditivos del clásico R&B y jazz contemporáneo y sus aficionados se derriten en emociones con cada nota suculenta y llena de jazz. Nacido en Shreveport, Louisiana, y crecido en Kansas City, Norman tiene por primera vez a los ocho años contacto con una guitarra. Inspirado por los embriagadores sonidos rockeros de Jimi Hendrix descubre poco después al artista favorito de su padre – Wes Montgomery – y en él encontró a su Santo Grial estilístico. Después de la High School Brown se mudó a Los Angeles para promover su carrera musical y allí visitó el Musicians Institute en dónde imparte por un tiempo clases. Mientras que tocaba con su grupo en clubes de la región Brown fue descubierto y firma un contrato con la casa discográfica MoJazz, una sección de Motown. Debuta en 1992 con „Just Between Us“ y prosiguen lanzamientos de muchos otros CDs más con diferentes casas discográficas. „Celebration“ fue la edición la que por primera vez lo pusiera en contacto con el productor Paul Brown. El sucedor del año 2003 –„Just Chillin‘“ – le proporciona por fin el merecido reconocimiento: un Grammy en la categoría „Best Pop Instrumental“.

Norman Brown | Artists 11

12 Festival Partner

Grace Kelly Grace Kelly ist eine Künstlerin, die die Grenzen des Genres immer wieder ausreizt. Im Alter von sieben Jahren schrieb die dynamische Saxophonistin, Sängerin, Songwriterin und Komponistin ihr erstes Lied; mit 12 nahm sie ihre erste CD auf und mit 14 schrieb sie eine Originalkomposition für einen Auftritt mit dem Boston Pops Orchester um. Als Bandleaderin ist Grace schon auf über 700 Konzerten in über 30 Ländern aufgetreten und zwar an namhaften Veranstaltungsorten wie dem Hollywood Bowl, dem Kennedy Center, der Carnegie Hall und der Symphony Hall. Zudem hat sie auf Festivals in Montreal, Newport und Montreux gespielt. Auch das Who-is-Who der Künstler, mit denen sie bereits gearbeitet hat, kann sich sehen lassen. Hier finden sich Namen wie: Lee Konitz, Phil Woods, Ron Carter, David Sanborn, Marcus Miller, Dave Brubeck, Huey Lewis, Esperanza Spalding und Gerald Albright. Regelmäßig zu sehen ist Kelly übrigens auch in der „The Late Show“ mit Stephen Colbert’s Band „Stay Human“. In Leserumfragen des Downbeat Magazine wurde sie 2016 zum „Rising Star Alto Saxophone” gekürt und ihre zehnte CD „Trying To Figure It Out” wählten die Leser desselben Magazins zum #2 Jazz Album of the Year 2016. Und wo wir schon bei Auszeichnungen sind: Die Musikerin kann auch mehrere ASCAP Composer Awards, Boston Music Awards und International Songwriting Awards ihr Eigen nennen.

Image: Taso Papdakis

Grace Kelly is a genre-bending artist. Aged 7, the dynamic saxophonist, singer, songwriter, and composer wrote her first song. At 12, she recorded her first CD and at 14 she orchestrated and performed an original composition with the Boston Pops Orchestra. As a bandleader Grace has performed over 700 concerts in over 30 countries in notable venues as the Hollywood Bowl, Kennedy Center, Carnegie Hall, Symphony Hall and festivals such as Montreal, Newport, and Montreux. And to name just a few, she has performed and/or recorded with world famous artists like Lee Konitz, Phil Woods, Ron Carter, David Sanborn, Marcus Miller, Dave Brubeck, Huey Lewis, Esperanza Spalding and Gerald Albright. Kelly has also been a regular in “The Late Show” with Stephen Colbert’s band “Stay Human”. She won the 64th Annual 2016 Downbeat Magazine Critics Poll as “Rising Star Alto Saxophone”, and her 10th CD “Trying To Figure It Out” was voted #2 Jazz Album of The Year in 2016 Downbeat Magazine Readers Poll. And talking about awards: Grace has also won multiple ASCAP Composer Awards, Boston Music Awards, and International Songwriting Awards. Grace Kelly live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Sunday, 30. April, 11:00 h & on Thursday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

Grace Kelly es una artista que rompe frecuentemente las fronteras del género. A los siete años la saxofonista, cantante, cantautora y compositora dinámica escribió su primera canción. A los 12 grabó su primer CD y a los 14 transcribió una composición original para una aparición con la orquesta Boston Pops. Como líder de grupo ya se ha presentado en más de 700 conciertos en más de 30 países, y eso en escenarios prestigiosos como el Hollywood Bowl, el Kennedy Center, la Carnegie Hall y la Symphony Hall. Además ha tocado en los festivales de Montreal, Newport y Montreux. Igualmente es digno de verse el quién-esquién de los artistas con los que ya ha trabajado. Aquí se encuentran nombres como Lee Konitz, Phil Woods, Ron Carter, David Sanborn, Marcus Miller, Dave Brubeck, Huey Lewis, Esperanza Spalding y Gerald Albright. También se puede ver a Kelly regularmente en el „The Late Show“ junto al grupo de Stephen Colbert, „Stay Human“. En una encuesta entre los lectores de la revista Downbeat Magazine en el año 2016 fue elegida como „Rising Star Alto Saxophone” y su décimo CD, „Trying To Figure It Out”, fue premiado por los lectores de la misma revista con el segundo lugar en el ranking Jazz Album of The Year 2016. Y si se habla de distinciones: la música también puede declarar de su propiedad unos ASCAP Composer Awards y Boston Music Awards así como también International Songwriting Awards.

FACTS Rising Star Alto Saxophone 2016 Winner of several Composer & Songwriting awards DISCOGRAPHY Trying To Figure It Out (2016) Working For The Dreamers (2014) Live At Scullers (2013) Man With The Hat (2011) Grace (2011) Mood Changes (2008) Gracefullee (2007) Every Road I Walked (2006) Dreaming (2005) Times Too (2005) www.gracekellymusic.com

Grace Kelly | Artists 13

Image: B&W Photo

Alex Bugnon Alex Bugnon live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Sunday, 30. April, 12:30 h & on Thursday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

Facts 2x Winner Soul Train Music Award 4 Top30 albums in the Jazz & 3 Top40 albums in the R&B & 2 albums in the Billboard 200 charts Discography Going Home (2010) Ultimate (2007) Free (2005) Southern Living (2003) Soul Purpose (2001) As Promised (2000) Tales From The Bright Side (1995) This Time Around (1993) 107 Degrees In The Shade (1991) Head Over Heels (1990) Love Season (1989)

El es el creador de uno de los más conocidos estilos del piano de jazz moderno. Una mezcla temperamental y a la vez romántica de jazz, funk y R&B adornada de un toque de gospel. El pianista jazz y compositor Alex Bugnon – un sobrino del trompetista jazz Donald Byrd – nació en Montreux en 1958. En su cuidad natal se celebra regularmente el festival de jazz de Montreux – así que Alex creció con el jazz. Antes de que se mudara a los Estados Unidos estudió dos años en el conservatorio

14 Artists | Alex Bugnon

https://www.facebook.com/ Alex-Bugnon-218516102245

Er hat einen der bekanntesten Stile des modernen Jazz-Klaviers geschaffen: Eine temperamentvolle, aber auch romantische Mischung aus zeitgenössischem Jazz, Funk und R&B, garniert mit einem Hauch von Gospel. Jazz-Pianist und Komponist Alex Bugnon – Neffe des Jazz-Trompeters Donald Byrd – wurde 1958 in Montreux geboren. In seiner Heimatstadt findet regelmäßig das Montreux Jazz Festival statt – Alex ist also mehr oder weniger mit Jazz groß geworden. Bevor er in die USA gezogen ist, hat er in Paris zwei Jahre am Konservatorium für Musik studiert. Danach besuchte er die Berklee School of Music und trat nebenbei mit Gospel-Gruppen auf. 1990 zog er nach New York, wo er vier Jahre als Session-Musiker mit Jazz-Interpreten wie Patti Austin, Freddie Jackson und Keith Sweat spielte. Mit seinem 1989 veröffentlichten Debüt-Album „Love Season“, schaffte er – ebenso wie mit dem Nachfolger „Head over heels“ – den Sprung in die Charts, bei den R&B-Charts sogar unter die Top 40. Nicht nur mit seinen Alben hat sich Alex eine treue Fangemeinde aufgebaut, sondern auch dank seiner vielen Auftritte auf Club- und Jazz-Festivals. „Leute, 40, 50, 60 Jahre alt – die alle meine CDs hatten – schwärmen von meinen Songs“, strahlt er. „Auf der anderen Seite kommen aber auch Studenten zu mir, die man eher unter der Radiohead-Fangemeinde vermuten würde, und sagen: ‚Ich steh echt auf diesen ‚Silver Song‘, Mann‘. Das ist wirklich schön zu hören.“

He has created one of the most recognized styles in today’s modern jazz piano. It is a sultry but also romantic mixture of contemporary jazz, funk, and R&B with hints of gospel. Jazz-pianist and composer Alex Bugnon, nephew of trumpeter Donald Byrd, was born in 1958 in Montreux. His hometown regularly hosts the Montreux Jazz Festival – thus, Alex has more or less grown up with Jazz. Before moving to the U.S.A he studied music at the Conservatorium in Paris for two years. He then went to the Berklee School of Music and performed with gospel groups as a sideline. In 1990 he moved to New York, where he played in the background as a session musician with artists like Patti Austin, Freddie Jackson and Keith Sweat. He made it into the charts with his debut album “Love Season” just as with its successor, “Head over Heels”; in the R&B charts he even secured a place among the top 40. Beyond his recordings, Alex has built a loyal fan base through touring on the club and jazz festival circuits. “People in their 40s, 50s and 60s that have all of my CDs are raving about my songs,” he beams. “At the same time, college students that are more likely to be Radiohead fans are coming up to me saying, ‘I really dug that ‘Silver Finger’ song, man’ - which is really nice to hear!”

de música de Paris. Luego visitó la Berklee School of Music y aparte de eso actuó con grupos de gospel. Después se traslada en 1990 a New York donde toca como músico de sesión durante cuadro años con intérpretes de jazz como Patti Austin, Freddie Jackson y Keith Sweat. Con el lanzamiento de su álbum debut en 1989, „Love Season“ – así como con su sucesor „Head over heels“ – consiguió el salto a los rankings, en los rankings de R&B incluso entre los 40 más vendidos. No sólo con sus álbumes

ha logrado Alex establecer una fiel comunidad de fans sino también gracias a sus numerosas apariciones en eventos de clubes y festivales de jazz. “La gente de 40, 50, 60 años – la que tenía todos mis CDs – se apasionan con mis canciones”, dice resplandeciendo. “Por otro lado también los estudiantes se acercan a mí los cuales se supondría más bien en la comunidad de fans de Radiohead para decirme ‘Oye tío, me gusta un montón tu ‚Silver Song’. Es realmente bonito oírlo.”

Harvey Mason The multi-Grammy nominated session drummer, producer, composer & recording artist Harvey Mason was born in Atlantic City, New Jersey. He began taking formal drum lessons at age seven, playing in school bands and finally buying his first drum set at 16. He continued his education at the Berklee School of Music, then attended the New England Conservatory of Music on full scholarship, studying performance, composing, arranging, percussion and mallets. In 1970, he graduated with a B.A. in Education and Performance. In the’70s and ’80s, “Mase” was working on Donald Byrd’s commercial breakthrough album “Black Byrd” and a series of successful crossover albums for Blue Note Records. This led to his seminal work on Herbie Hancock’s jazz masterpiece “Head Hunters”. Since then, Harvey has worked with a pantheon of musical giants, including Barbra Streisand, James Brown, Beyonce, Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Carlos Santana, Michael Jackson, John Legend, Seal and the London Symphony Orchestra. He has composed and written songs recorded by artists ranging from Nancy Wilson and Mary J. Blige to The Notorious B.I.G. and Nelly/P. Diddy. Mason is also a founding member of Fourplay. “Chameleon”, Mason’s 10th solo project overall is a blend of R&B, urban and cutting-edge jazz.

Harvey Mason live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017on Sunday, 30. April, 12:30 h & on Thursday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

Facts 10x Grammy nominee Founding member of Fourplay One of the most recorded drummers of all time

Image: Davin De Haven

Discography

Der mehrfach Grammy nominierte Session-Drummer, Produzent, Komponist und Studiomusiker Harvey Mason kam in Atlantic City, New Jersey, zur Welt. Mit sieben begann er, Schlagzeugunterricht zu nehmen, spielte in Schulbands und kaufte sein erstes Schlagzeug schließlich mit 16 Jahren. Seine Ausbildung setzte er an der Berklee School of Music fort und bekam anschließend ein Stipendium für das New England Conservatory of Music, wo er Komposition, Arrangement, Percussion und Mallet-Instrumente (Stabspiel) studierte. 1970 schloss er mit einem B.A. in Musik-Pädagogik und Performance ab. In den 70er und 80er Jahren arbeitete „Mase“ an „Black Byrd“, dem Album, mit dem Donald Byrd den kommerziellen Durchbruch schaffte, mit, sowie an einer Reihe erfolgreicher Crossover-Alben für Blue Note Records. Das führte zu seiner Beteiligung an Herbie Hancocks JazzMeisterwerk „Head Hunters“. Seitdem hat Harvey mit unzähligen Musikgiganten zusammengearbeitet, darunter Barbra Streisand, James Brown, Beyonce, Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Carlos Santana, Michael Jackson, John Legend, Seal und das London Symphony Orchestra. Zudem hat er Songs komponiert und geschrieben für Künstler wie Nancy Wilson, Mary J. Blige, The Notorious B.I.G. oder Nelly/P. Diddy. Mason ist übrigens auch Gründungsmitglied der Band Fourplay. Sein nunmehr zehntes Soloprojekt „Chameleon“ ist eine Mischung aus R&B sowie urbanem und innovativem Jazz.

Chameleon (2014) Changing Partners – Trios 2 (2011) With All My Heart (2004) Trios (2003) Sho Nuff Groove: Best Of Harvey Mason (1999) Groovin’ You (Japan, 1999) Ratamacue (1996) World Class (1981) M.V.P. (1981) Groovin’ You (1979) Earth Mover (1977) Funk In A Mason Jar (1977) Marching In The Street (1976) www.harveymason.net

El baterista de sesión, productor, compositor y músico de estudios Harvey Mason, más de una vez nominado para un Grammy, nació en Atlantic City, New Jersey. A los siete años comenzó a tomar clases de batería, tocó en grupos escolares y finalmente compró su primera batería a los 16 años. Siguió su formación en la Berklee School of Music y después obtuvo una beca para el New England Conservatory of Music dónde estudió composición, arreglo, percusión y instrumentos mallet (tocar con palos). En 1970 se graduó con un B.A. en pedagogía de música y en performance. En los años 70 y 80 „Mase“ colaboró en „Black Byrd“, el álbum con el que Donald Byrd consiguiera el éxito comercial, así como en una serie de álbumes crossover para Blue Note Records. Eso le trajo la participación en la obra maestra de jazz de Herbie Hancock, „Head Hunters“. Desde entonces Harvey ha trabajado con innumerables gigantes de la música, entre ellos Barbra Streisand, James Brown, Beyonce, Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Carlos Santana, Michael Jackson, John Legend, Seal y la London Symphony Orchestra. Además ha compuesto y escrito canciones para artistas como Nancy Wilson, Mary J. Blige, The Notorious B.I.G. o Nelly/P. Diddy. A propósito, Mason es también miembro fundador del grupo Fourplay. Su ahora décimo proyecto como solista, „Chameleon“, es una mezcla de R&B y de jazz urbano e innovador.

Harvey Mason | Artists 15

Ken Ford wurde in St. Louis geboren und wohnte in Detroit, bevor seine Eltern nach Atlanta zogen. Er wuchs auf, umgeben von all dem Jazz-, Blues- und R&B-Sound, den sein Dad als DJ auflegte. Seine besondere Gabe entdeckten seine Eltern, als sie eines nachts auf einer Party hörten, wie er einen Al-Green-Song Note für Note auf einer Spielzeugorgel mitspielte, ohne je auch nur eine Stunde Unterricht gehabt zu haben. Von da an drückten sie ihm immer wieder Instrumente in die Hand, aber er bekam weiterhin nie Unterricht, bis er schließlich mit neun Jahren die Violine für sich entdeckte. Ken gab sich seiner Leidenschaft für dieses Instrument hin, arbeitete aber am Anfang seiner Karriere tagsüber als IT-Programmierer, während er nachts in einigen von Atlantas heißesten Jazz-Spots jammte. Mittlerweile haben Kens Talente ihn schon mit einer ganzen Reihe von Superstars wie Bruno Mars, Jill Scott, Wyclef Jean, Chaka Khan, Brian Culbertson, Barry White und vielen mehr auf die Bühne und ins Studio gebracht. Heute widmet sich Ken seiner Leidenschaft für Violine Vollzeit und vor weltweitem Publikum. Ein Wort, das dabei nicht nur sein Instrument, sondern auch ihn selbst beschreibt, ist: elektrisch. Alles andere als ruhig, dafür aber unglaublich kunstfertig und kreativ setzt Ken seine Violine in Szene und rockt sie mit einer Leidenschaft, dass sich auch das beste Gitarrensolo warm anziehen kann.

Growing up in a home filled with the diverse sounds of jazz, blues, and R&B from the records his dad spun as a DJ, Ken Ford was born in St. Louis and lived in Detroit before his parents settled in Atlanta. His parents recognized a special gift in their child one night when they overheard him at a party, playing along with an Al Green song note for note on a toy keyboard - long before his first music lesson. From that point on, they kept an instrument in his hands but he never had a formal lesson until he settled on violin at age nine. Ken followed his passion for violin but, early in his career, lived a dual life, working as an IT programmer while jamming at some of Atlanta’s hottest jazz spots at night. Meanwhile, Ken’s talents have brought him on stage and into the recording studio with a range of superstar artists including Bruno Mars, Jill Scott, Wyclef Jean, Chaka Khan, Brian Culbertson, Barry White and more. Today, he’s indulging his passion for violin full-time before worldwide audiences and a word that describes not only his violin but also the man himself is: electric. Far from being any quiet instrument, Ken takes the violin center stage with amazing artistry and creativity, rocking out on it with a passion and fervor that rivals the biggest guitar solos.

Facts Known for his Showmanship Recorded/performed with Brian Culbertson, Chaka Khan, Barry White, Bruno Mars, etc. Discography State Of Mind (2011) Right Now (2009) Chevelle Lane (2003) Burnt Toast (2001) www.kenford.net

Ken Ford live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Sunday, 30. April, 20:45 h & on Thursday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

Image: Ken Ford

Ken Ford 16 Artists | Ken Ford

Ken Ford nació en St. Louis y vivió en Detroit antes de que sus padres se mudaran a Atlanta. Creció en el mundo del jazz, blues y R&B que su padre ponía como DJ. Su talento extraordinario lo descubren sus padres cuando una noche, en una fiesta, le escuchan tocar junto al disco y nota por nota una canción de Al Green en un órgano de juguete, sin haber recibido ninguna clase. Desde ese momento le dieron uno u otro instrumento, hasta que, a los nueve años, descubre el violín como el suyo. Su pasión por este instrumento continuó, pero al inicio de su carrera trabajaba durante el día como programador de TI, y durante las noches tocaba en los lugares de jazz más ardientes de toda Atlanta. Entretanto su talento ha llevado a Ken, tanto en el escenario como en los estudios, a tocar en compañía de toda una serie de grandes estrellas como Bruno Mars, Jill Scott, Wyclef Jean, Chaka Khan, Brian Culbertson, Barry White y muchos más. Hoy en día Ken se dedica a tiempo completo a su pasión por el violín y frente a un público mundial. La palabra que no sólo caracteriza a su instrumento sino también a el mismo es: eléctrico. Todo lo contrario a tranquilo; de una manera increíblemente ágil y creativa pone Ken su violín en escena, rockeando de tal forma, que hasta el mejor solo de guitarra queda relegado a un segundo plano.

Image: Acoustic Alchemy

Facts

Acoustic Alchemy The U.K. Band Acoustic Alchemy have spent over a quarter century making music and in that time, they have built a reputation for being one of the most exciting live bands in the business. For the last decade, the band lineup has been made up of Greg Carmichael (nylon guitar), Miles Gilderdale (steel string acoustic/electric guitars), Fred White (keys) and the rhythm section of Greg Grainger (drums) and his brother Gary (bass). But the band’s story began with two guitarists, Nick Webb and Simon James, who recorded a self-financed, self-produced album in the mid-eighties entitled “Acoustic Alchemy”. Shortly after the release, James left the partnership and Webb promoted the record on his own. He turned to a rock guitarist named Greg Carmichael and the two assumed the name of Acoustic Alchemy. The duo initially worked for Virgin Airlines, recording in-flight music for trans-Atlantic flights. Then they signed to MCA, but moved to GRP after three records. and released the Grammy-nominated “Reference Point”. Some years later Webb had been diagnosed with pancreatic cancer. He died in 1998, so Gilderdale, who was playing in the electric guitar slot at the time, had to expand his technical skills and repertoire on acoustic guitar to take Webb’s place alongside Carmichael at the front of the band.

3x Grammy nominee No.1 hit & 5 Top10 albums at the Billboard jazz charts Discography Live In London (2014) Roseland (2011) The Very Best Of Acoustic Alchemy Vol. II (2009) This Way (2007) American/English (2005) Radio Contact (2003) Sounds Of St. Lucia: Live (2003) The Very Best Of Acoustic Alchemy (2002) AArt (2001) The Beautiful Game (2000) Positive Thinking (1998) Arcanum (1996) Greatest Hits (1996) Against The Grain (1994) The New Edge (1993) Early Alchemy (1992) Back On The Case (1991) Reference Point (1990) Blue Chip (1989) Natural Elements (1988) Red Dust & Spanish Lace (1987) www.acoustic-alchemy.net

El grupo del Reino Unido, Acoustic Alchemy, hace música desde hace más de un cuarto de siglo. Durante estos años ha logrado hacerse fama como el grupo con las más excitantes actuaciones en vivo dentro de esta escena. Desde hace aproximadamente diez años el grupo está integrado por Greg Carmichael (guitarra acústica, cuerdas de nailon), Miles Gilderdale (guitarras acústicas y eléctricas de cuerdas de acero), Fred White (teclado) así como, en la sección del ritmo, Greg Grainger (batería) y su hermano Gary (bajo). Pero la historia del grupo se inicia a mediados de los 80 con dos guitarristas, Nick Webb y Simon James, quienes producen y financian por su propia cuenta su primer álbum, „Acoustic Alchemy“. Pero poco después del lanzamiento James abandona al equipo y Webb se dedica solo a promocionar el disco. Entra en contacto con un guitarrista de rock llamado Greg Carmichael y ambos adoptan como nombre Acoustic Alchemy. Al inicio el dúo trabaja para Virgin Airlines y graban música ligera para el entretenimiento durante vuelos transatlánticos. Luego la casa discográfica MCA les ofrece un contrato y publican su álbum debut. Después de dos CDs más con MCA cambian a GRP y lanzan el álbum „Reference Point“ que gana una nominación Grammy. Unos años más tarde Webb se enferma de cáncer de páncreas. Muere en 1998.

Acoustic Alchemy live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Sunday, 30. April, 22:15 h

Die UK-Band Acoustic Alchemy macht seit über einem Vierteljahrhundert Musik und gilt als einer der aufregendsten LiveActs im Business. Seit etwa einem Jahrzehnt besteht die Band aus Greg Carmichael (Nylon-Akustikgitarre), Miles Gilderdale (Stahlsaiten-Akustik- und E-Gitarren), Fred White (Keyboards) sowie der Rhythm-Section mit Greg Grainger (Schlagzeug) und seinem Bruder Gary (Bass). Begonnen hat die Geschichte der Band allerdings mit den Gitarristen Nick Webb und Simon James, die ihr erstes Album namens „Acoustic Alchemy“ Mitte der 80er Jahre selbst finanzierten und produzierten. Kurz nach der Veröffentlichung verließ James das Team und Webb promotete die Platte selbst. Dann schloss er sich mit dem Rockgitarristen Greg Carmichael zusammen. Als „Acoustic Alchemy“ arbeitete das Duo anfangs für Virgin Airlines und nahm Bordmusik für Transatlantik-Flüge auf. Dann bekamen sie Plattenverträge und schließlich folgte das erste Grammy-nominierte Album „Reference Point“. Einige Jahre später starb Webb an Bauchspeicheldrüsenkrebs.

Acoustic Alchemy | Artists 17

Image: Joe Sherbanee

Jeff Kashiwa

Jeff Kashiwa, geboren in Seattle, spielte schon in der Grundschule Holzblasinstrumente und schon damals spürte er, dass Musik sein Weg werden würde. Sein Gefühl hat ihn nicht getäuscht. Bereits in seinem ersten Jahr mit den Rippingtons fiel er auf als einer der faszinierendsten, jungen Saxophonisten des Contemporary Jazz. Zusammen spielten sie einige hundert Shows weltweit und Kashiwa ist auf vielen der klassischen Alben der Band zu hören. In den zehn Jahren, die er mit den Rippingtons unterwegs war, entwickelte er sich zu einem der vielseitigsten Saxmen der Branche. Dann wandte er sich voller Elan seiner Solo-Karriere zu. Ein Schritt, der viele überrascht hat, aber Jeff wollte sich durch seine eigene Musik ausdrücken. Seitdem hat er neun CDs unter eigenem Namen veröffentlicht und ist nach wie vor als Gast bei vielen anderen Künstlern zu hören. 2004 gründete er mit Steve Cole und Kim Waters das Saxophon-Trio The Sax Pack. Die Gruppe veröffentlichte zwei CDs und verzauberte das Publikum auf zahlreichen Touren in den USA und im Ausland. 2006 vereinte sich Jeff erneut mit den Rippingtons für die Jubiläums-Tour zum 20-jährigen Bandbestehen – seit dieser Zeit sind sie auch wieder gemeinsam im Studio und auf der Bühne aktiv. Neben Tourneen mit The Sax Pack und seiner eigenen Gruppe ist Kashiwa auch als Dozent mehrerer Musikkurse am Shoreline Community College in Seattle tätig. Zudem arbeitet er an einem neuen Album. Seattle native, Jeff Kashiwa knew he was destined to be a musician following his junior high introduction to woodwinds. His instincts were correct. He became known as one of the most compelling young saxophonists in contemporary jazz during his first year with the Rippingtons. Kashiwa performed hundreds of shows all over the world and appeared on many of the band’s classic recordings. Having established himself in the ‘90s as one of the most diverse saxmen in contemporary jazz during his decade long tenure with the Rippingtons, Kashiwa’s instincts led him to more dynamic endeavors through his solo career. It surprised many when Jeff left the group to venture out on his own, but he had things to say through his own music. He now has nine CDs released under his own name and has continued to record as a guest artist with many other artists as well. In 2004, Kashiwa founded The Sax Pack, a trio of saxophone headliners, featuring himself, Steve Cole and Kim Waters. The group released two CDs together and charmed audiences with their Rat Pack style reparte’ in tours across the U.S. and abroad. In 2006, Jeff reunited with the Rippingtons for their 20th Anniversary Tour and continues to record and tour with the group. In addition to touring with The Sax Pack and his own group, Kashiwa has expanded his career to include the realm of music education, teaching various courses through the music program at Shoreline Community College in Seattle. Currently, Jeff is working on a new album.

18 Artists | Jeff Kashiwa

Nacido en Seattle Jeff Kashiwa tocaba instrumentos de viento de madera ya en la primaria – ya en ese entonces se sentía predestinado a convertirse en músico. Sus instintos eran correctos. Ya en su primer año con los Rippingtons adquirió fama como uno de los jóvenes saxofonistas más fascinantes del jazz contemporáneo. Juntos actuaron en cientos de eventos en todo el mundo y se puede oír a Kashiwa en muchos de los álbumes clásicos del grupo. Durante los 10 años de su función fija con los Rippingtons, en los años 90, se convirtió en uno de los más polifacéticos hombres de sax dentro del ramo antes de que se dedicara, lleno de ímpetu, a su carrera como solista. Este paso sorprendió a muchos pero para Jeff era importante expresarse a través de su propia música. Desde entonces ha publicado nueve CDs bajo su nombre y sigue siendo escuchado como invitado con muchos otros artistas. En 2004 fundó el trio de saxófonos The Sax Pack – juntos con Steve Cole y Kim Waters. El grupo publicó dos CDs y encantó al público en numerosas giras por los Estados Unidos y el extranjero. En 2006, con motivo de una gira para celebrar los 20 años del grupo, Jeff se junta nuevamente con los Rippingtons – desde entonces también han retomado activitades en el estudio y se los puede ver juntos en el escenario. Aparte de las giras con los The Sax Pack y su propio grupo Kashiwa es docente en diversos cursos de música en el Shoreline Community College en Seattle. De momento está trabajando en un nuevo álbum.

Jeff Kashiwa live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Monday, 01. May, 11:00 h & on Thursday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

Facts No.1 hit at the R&R airplay chart for 8 weeks 5 Top20 albums at the Billboard jazz chart Discography Let It Ride (2012) Pack Is Back (2009) Very Best Of Jeff Kashiwa (2009) Back In The Day (2009) Sax Pack (2008) Play (2007) Peace Of Mind (2004) Simple Truth (2002) Another Door Opens (2000) Walk A Mile (1996) Remember Catalina (1995) www.jeffkashiwa.com

Facts No.3 hit at the German jazz chart 3x German Jazz Award winner (Gold) In the course of their over 20-year career, the Nighthawks have created a subtly contoured aesthetic concept: music for travellers. Momentum and calm, denseness and sparseness, darkness and light – contrasts that all play a central musical role in the band’s work. Striving for reductionism, these scores of catchy songs evoke vivid atmospheric pictures, whose attraction lie often in their sense of yearning. The music heads of the quintet are Dal Martino (Bass, Keys, Guitar, Vocals) and Reiner Winterschladen (Trumpet, Flugelhorn). In the studio and on live gigs, they are accompanied by Jürgen Dahmen (Keys, Rhodes Piano, Percussion), Thomas Alkier (Drums) and Guitarist Jörg Lehnardt. The latest Nighthawks album was dedicated to the Boeing 707. For Martino, the 707 was “basically the first transporter of culture in a musical world that was becoming increasingly international”. For this CD, libertine Winterschladen – an avid proponent of improvised music – time and again had to restrict his trumpet playing to comply with Martino’s focus on reduction. These conflicting poles gave birth to numerous sound sketches which Martino considerably condensed. The resulting album consists of seven songs as well as the core track “707 Suite”: A powerful, at times edgy, work in four movements that even expands into psychedelic rock. As singer for another track – “Happy Days” – Martino invited Jeff Young on board, a musical partner of Donald Fagen (Steely Dan), Jackson Browne, Sting and many others. Young co-composed this track and is responsible for bringing some L.A. breeziness to the album.

Discography 707 (2016) Rio Bravo (2014) Live In Hamburg (2012) Today (2010) 4 (2007) As The Sun Sets (2004) Metro Bar (2001) Citizen Wayne (1998) www.nighthawks.eu

Nighthawks

Die Nighthawks haben in den 20 Jahren ihres Schaffens ein fein konturiertes, ästhetisches Konzept geschaffen: Musik für Reisende. Geschwindigkeit und Ruhe, Dichte und Leere, Hell und Dunkel spielen eine zentrale musikalische Rolle im Oeuvre der Band. Ihre eingängigen Songs sind auf Reduktion bedachte Stimmungsbilder, deren Sog fast immer im Sehnsuchtsvollen liegt. Die Köpfe des Quintetts sind Dal Martino (Bass, Keys, Gitarre, Gesang) und Reiner Winterschladen (Trompete, Flügelhorn). Live und im Studio werden sie von Jürgen Dahmen (Keys, Rhodes Piano, Percussion), Thomas Alkier (Schlagzeug) und Gitarrist Jörg Lehnardt begleitet. Das neueste Nighthawks-Werk haben Martino und Winterschladen der Boeing 707 gewidmet. Martino: „Im Grunde war die 707 der erste Kulturtransporter einer sich internationalisierenden Musikwelt.“ Für dieses Album musste sich Freigeist Winterschladen – eigentlich stark der improvisierten Musik zugewandt – in seinem Spiel immer wieder zügeln, denn Martinos Prämisse lautete, sich in Reduktion zu üben. Dieses Spannungsverhältnis hat viele Soundskizzen hervorgebracht, die Martino im Studio verdichtet hat. Geblieben sind sieben Songs und das Kernstück des Albums: die viersätzige, starke, teils kantige „707 Suite“. Kraftvolle Musik, die bis in psychedelisch-rockige Gefilde vordringt. Für einen anderen Track – „Happy Days“ – konnte Martino Sänger Jeff Young (Mitmusiker von Donald Fagen/ Steely Dan, Jackson Browne, Sting u.v.a.) gewinnen. Young hat den Track mitkomponiert und lässt die Leichtigkeit LA’s in das Album einfließen.

Image: Axel Schulten

Nighthawks live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Monday, 01. May, 12:30 h

En sus 20 años de creaciones los Nighthawks han generado un concepto estético de finos perfiles: música para viajeros. Velocidad y tranquilidad, densidad y vacío, luz y sombra juegan un rol musical central en las obras del grupo. Basadas en la reducción, sus canciones pegadizas son imágenes de sentimientos cuya atracción casi siempre yace en lo ansioso. Las cabezas del quinteto son Dal Martino (bajo, teclas, guitarra, canto) y Reiner Winterschladen (trompeta, flügelhorn). En actuaciones en vivo y en el estudio les acompañan Jürgen Dahmen (teclas, Rhodes Piano, percusion), Thomas Alkier (batería) y el guitarrista Jörg Lehnhardt. Martino y Winterschladen dedican la obra más reciente de Nighthawks al Boeing 707. Martino: „En el fondo el 707 era el primer vehículo de transporte cultural del cada vez mayor mundo internacional de la música.” Para este álbum el librepensador Winterschladen – que de hecho encuentra su vocación en la música improvisada – tenía que contenerse en sus interpretaciones una y otra vez porque la premisa de Martino era practicar la reducción. Esta relación de tensión generó muchos borradores de sonido los que Martino comprimió en el estudio. Quedaron siete canciones y el corazón del album: la “suite 707”, de cuatro movimientos, fuerte, en parte anguloso. Música con fuerza que incluso anvanza hasta campos psicodélico-rockeros. Para otra canción – „Happy Days“ – Martino logró ganarse la colaboración del cantante Jeff Young (colega musical de Donald Fagen/Steely Dan, Jackson Browne, Sting y muchos más). Young tomó parte en la composición de la canción y deja entrar en el álbum la ligereza de LA.

Nighthawks | Artists 19

Adam Hawley Gitarrist Adam Hawley – derzeit in Los Angeles ansässig – begann seine Musikkarriere in der Region von Portland/ Oregon, bevor er 2002 nach Kalofornien umzog. 2008 schloss er sein Studium an der University of Southern California mit einem Master ab, zwei Jahre später machte er dort seinen Doktor in Studio-/Jazz-Gitarre. Heute unterrichtet Adam auch selbst, und zwar am Musician‘s Institute, am Chaffey College und am Saddleback College. Er hat aber auch schon zahlreiche Auftritte in Shows und auf Festivals absolviert, etwa auf dem Seabreeze Jazz Fest, dem Catalina Jazz Fest, dem Cancun Jazz Fest, der Dave Koz und Friends Cruise oder bei American Idol. Zudem stand er bereits mit Künstlern wie Lalah Hathaway, Jennifer Lopez, Natalie Cole, Sheila E, Larry Graham, Flo Rida, Kenny Latimore, Brian Culbertson, Richard Elliott, Euge Groove, Gerald Albright, Kirk Whalum, Jeff Lorber, Phillipe Saisse, Mindi Abair, Keiko Matsui und vielen mehr im Studio oder auf der Bühne. Vor allem aber 2016 war ein aufregendes Jahr für ihn: Sein Debüt-Album „Just The Beginning“ erschien im März. Die erste Single – „35th St.“ mit Eric Darius am Saxofon – war fünf Wochen lang auf Platz 1 in den Billboard Charts. Und auch die zweite, „Joy Ride“, geschrieben und produziert mit Greg Manning, eroberte die Billboard-Top-Ten. Darüber hinaus wurde Adam sowohl von Smooth Jazz News als auch von JazzTrax zum„Debut Artist of the Year“ ernannt. Guitarist Adam Hawley, currently a resident of Los Angeles, started his music career in the Portland Metro Area of Oregon before moving to Southern California in 2002. He graduated in 2008 with a Master’s from the University of Southern California, and two years later, he completed a Doctorate of Musical Arts in Studio/Jazz guitar there. Currently, Adam also teaches at the Musician’s Institute, Chaffey College, and Saddleback College. So far, he has appeared on shows or festivals like Seabreeze Jazz Fest, Catalina Jazz Fest, Cancun Jazz Fest, Dave Koz and Friends Cruise or American Idol, and he has performed and/or recorded with such artists as Lalah Hathaway, Jennifer Lopez, Natalie Cole, Sheila E, Larry Graham, Flo Rida, Kenny Latimore, Brian Culbertson, Richard Elliott, Euge Groove, Gerald Albright, Kirk Whalum, Jeff Lorber, Phillipe Saisse, Mindi Abair, Keiko Matsui. 2016 has been an exciting year for him: His debut record “Just The Beginning” was released in March. The first single “35th St.” ft. Eric Darius had the longest run at #1 on Billboard in 2016 (5 weeks). And also the second one, “Joy Ride” co-written and produced with Greg Manning, hit the Top Ten on Billboard. Furthermore, Adam has been named both Smooth Jazz News and JazzTrax “Debut Artist of the Year”.

Facts Debut Artist of the Year 2016 No.1 & No.5 hit at the Billboard Jazz Chart Discography Just The Beginning (2016) www.adamhawley.com

El guitarrista Adam Hawley – quien de momento reside en Los Ángeles – comenzó su carrera musical en la región de Portland/Oregon antes de que se mudara a la California del Sur en 2002. En 2008 se graduó en la University of Southern California con un master, dos años más tarde se doctoró en la materia de guitarra jazz y estudio. Hoy en día Adam imparte clases el mismo, y eso en el Musician‘s Institute, en el Chaffey College y en el Saddleback College. Pero también ya ha tenido numerosas actuaciones en eventos y festivales, entre ellos en el Seabreeze Jazz Fest, el Catalina Jazz Fest, el Cancun Jazz Fest, el Dave Koz and Friends Cruise o el American Idol. Además ya ha compartido el escenario o el estudio con artistas como Lalah Hathaway, Jennifer Lopez, Natalie Cole, Sheila E, Larry Graham, Flo Rida, Kenny Latimore, Brian Culbertson, Richard Elliott, Euge Groove, Gerald Albright, Kirk Whalum, Jeff Lorber, Phillipe Saisse, Mindi Abair, Keiko Matsui y muchos más. Pero sobre todo el 2016 fue un año excitante para él: Su álbum debut „Just The Beginning“ aparició en marzo. El primer disco sencillo – „35th St.“ con Eric Darius en el saxófono – ocupó durante cinco semanas el no.1 de los rankings Billboard. Tambien el segundo – „Joy Ride“, escrito y producido con Greg Manning – conquistó los top ten de Billboard. Aparte de esto Adam fue nombrado „Debut Artist of the Year“ tanto de Smooth Jazz News como de JazzTrax.

Image: Adam Hawley

Adam Hawley live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Monday, 01. May, 20:45 h

20 Artists | Adam Hawley

Image: Brian Friedman

Spyro Gyra – die Band, die ihren sonderbaren Namen der Grünalge Spirogyra verdankt – wurde 1974 von Saxophonist Jay Beckenstein und Keyboarder Jeremy Hall gegründet. Allerdings lautete der Name anfangs noch schlicht „Tuesday Night Jazz Jams“ – ein Forum, bei dem die beiden von wechselnden anderen Musikern begleitet wurden. Dienstag war dabei einfach der Abend, an dem die meisten nicht schon irgendeinen anderen Gig spielten, um Geld zu verdienen. Um 1974 aber begann die Band, Form anzunehmen und eine Fangemeinde zu generieren. Ein Clubbesitzer, der eine anstehende Veranstaltung bewerben wollte, fragte Beckenstein nach ihrem Namen. Der Saxophonist sagte einfach „Spirogyra“ – den Namen hatte er im Bio-Unterricht gehört und fand ihn witzig. Der Besitzer schrieb den Namen jedoch „Spyro Gyra“ und so nahm die Geschichte ihren Lauf… Damals bestand die Band aus Beckenstein, Wall, Jim Kurzdorfer und Tom Walsh. Kurz darauf kam Keyboarder Tom Schuman dazu. Wall verließ die Band 1978. Heute besteht Sypro Gyra aus Beckenstein, Schuman, Scott Ambush (Bass), Julio Fernandez (Gitarre) und Lionel Cordew (Schlagzeug). Ihre Musik kombiniert R&B und Elemente aus Pop und karibischer Musik mit Jazz. In mehr als 40 Jahren hat die Band mehr als 5.000 Shows gespielt, über 30 Alben veröffentlicht und über 10 Millionen Platten verkauft. Aber darauf lag nie ihr Fokus. Als Beckenstein und Wall ihre Jam-Sessions in Buffalo starteten, machten sie es, weil es ein Riesenspaß war.

Spyro Gyra

Spyro Gyra live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2017 on Monday, 01. May, 22:15 h

Spyro Gyra, owing its odd name to the green alga spirogyra, was founded in 1974 by saxophonist Jay Beckenstein and keyboardist Jeremy Wall. Indeed, they were first known simply as “Tuesday Night Jazz Jams,” a forum wherein Beckenstein and Wall were joined by a rotating cast of characters. Tuesday just happened to be the night when most musicians weren’t playing other gigs to pay their bills. Around 1974, the group was beginning to gel and cultivate a following. A club owner who wanted to advertise an upcoming appearance by the band asked Beckenstein for the group’s name. The saxophonist told him “Spirogyra,” a word he learned in a college biology course. The owner misspelled the word as Spyro Gyra, and the band fell into place, featuring Beckenstein, Wall, Jim Kurzdorfer, and Tom Walsh. Not long afterward, the group added keyboardist Tom Schuman (with Wall dropping out 1978). Today, Spyro Gyra consists of Beckenstein, Schuman, Scott Ambush (bass), Julio Fernandez (guitar) und Lionel Cordew (drums). Their music combines R&B, elements of pop and Caribbean music with jazz. Over the last 40+ years, they have performed over five thousand shows, released over thirty albums selling over ten million albums, but they didn’t make music for commercial purposes. When Beckenstein and Wall first started jamming back in Buffalo, they just did it because it was a blast, pure and simple.

Facts Over 30 solo albums Over 10 million albums sold 12x Grammy nominee Discography Best Of The Heads Up Years (2016) The Rhinebeck Sessions (2013) A Foreign Affair (2011) Down The Wire (2009) A Night Before Christmas (2008) Good To Go-Go (2007) Wrapped In A Dream (2006) The Deep End (2004) Original Cinema (2003) In Modern Times (2001) Got The Magic (1999) Road Scholars (1998) The Best Of The First 10 Years (1998) Spyro Gyra 1977-1987 (1997) 20/20 (1997) Heart Of The Night (1996) Love & Other Obsessions (1995) Dreams Beyond Control (1993) Three Wishes (1992) Collection (1991) Fast Forward (1990) Etc. www.spyrogyra.com

Spyro Gyra – el grupo que debe ese extraño nombre a el alga verde Spirogyra – fue fundado en 1974 por el saxofonista Jay Beckenstein y el teclista Jeremy Wall. Sin embargo, al inicio su nombre era sencillamente „Tuesday Night Jazz Jams“ – un foro en el que los dos fueron acompañados por diversos y siempre nuevos músicos. Martes simplemente porque era la noche en la que la mayoría de ellos no tenía que tocar en otro gig para ganar dinero. Pero alrededor del año 1974 empezó el grupo a tomar forma y a generar una comunidad de aficionados. El dueño de un club, que quería promocionar una actuación pendiente, le preguntó a Beckenstein por el nombre. El saxofonista respondió simplemente „Spirogyra“ – nombre que había oído en una clase de biología y que encontraba gracioso. Sin embargo el dueño escribió el nombre de „Spyro Gyra“ y así la historia tomó su rumbo… En ese entonces el grupo estuvo conformado por Beckenstein, Wall, Jim Kurzdorfer y Tom Walsh. Después se sumó al grupo el teclista Tom Schuman. Wall abandona al grupo en 1978. Hoy en día el grupo Spyro Gyra cuenta con Beckenstein, Schuman, Scott Ambush (bajo), Julio Fernandez (guitarra) y Lionel Cordew (batería). Su música combina R&B y elementos de música pop y música caribeña con el jazz. En más de 40 años el grupo ha tocado más de 5000 conciertos, ha publicado más de 30 álbumes y ha vendido más de 10 milliones de discos. Pero esto nunca fue su meta. Cuando Beckenstein y Wall iniciaron sus jam-sessions en Buffalo lo hicieron simplemente porque les divertía tremendamente.

Spyro Gyra | Artists 21

Festival Musicians Mark Jaimes

Oli Silk

Orefo Orakwue

22 Artists | Festival Musicians

Images: Graeme Holiday, Christian Nordstrรถm (2), Orefo Orakwue

Heiko Braun

OLI SILK | Keyboards www.olisilk.com

MARK JAIMES | Guitar www.facebook.com/mark.jaimes.37

UK-Keyboardist Oli Silk began writing and recording music as part of jazz funk duo “Sugar and Silk” in the late 1990’s. Fast forward a decade, and Oli now has 5 CD’s to his name, including many chart topping radio singles. He remains one of the most dynamic and energetic keyboardists in the genre, and his unique mix of jazzy instrumentals, funky vocal cuts and down right dirty ol’ school keytar and vocoder, give his live shows that real wow factor and have garnered him a loyal and dedicated fan-base. Oli’s skills as a keys player have made him the go-to guy for some of the genre’s biggest artists when they tour Europe – e. g. Gerald Albright, Chuck Loeb, Boney James, Dave Koz, Euge Groove and Peter White. His credentials as a musical director are also far reaching, most notably for 4 years at the Dubai International Jazz Festival – overseeing some 30+ artists on the Jazz Garden Stage. When off stage, Oli is a sought-after smooth jazz producer, composer and mix engineer. He has also composed music for TV.

Mark Jaimes is a London based session musician with a long and varied career. He started playing guitar at age five and did his first gig age nine. After several record contracts playing in soul bands, he decided to pursue a career as a session musician and became the resident guitarist for David Dundas Music, playing on many high profile jingles for TV and film. He toured with various artists until ’98 when after a recording session with Simply Red, was asked to join the band. Mark toured and recorded with Simply Red for five years until 2003, then embarked on a career as a producer with longtime friend and musician Danny Saxon. He produced hits for various artists including Simply Red and Luciano Pavarotti, and is currently working with legendary songwriter Rod Temperton. Mark is also a regular on the smooth jazz scene, having played with Dave Koz, Brian Culbertson, Peter White, Rick Braun, Richard Elliott, Chuck Loeb, Euge Groove, Mindi Abair and many more.

OREFO ORAKWUE | Bass www.orefo.com

HEIKO BRAUN | Drums www.heikobraundrums.com

Bass guitarist Orefo Orakwue has established himself as a familiar face on the UK contemporary/ smooth Jazz circuit. Whilst co writing and producing alongside the exciting new UK singer/songwriter Elle Cato (latest release “I Am”), Orefo has been on call to provide his infectious bass lines & grooves for artists such as Brian Culbertson, Boney James, Euge Groove, Jeff Lorber, Oli Silk, Paul Brown, Brian Simpson, Jonathan Fritzén and Vincent Ingala. He has also shared stage with Jazz virtuoso guitarist Martin Taylor, Matt Bianco, and Atlanta born singer/pianist Avery Sunshine. Along with his current Musical Director duties with American singer/ songwriter Anastacia, Orefo’s versatility has also spread into the fields of Pop, R&B and World music. This spring he makes his first visit to the Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival.

Heiko began playing drums at the age of three - on a plastic drum. Five years later, he says, “noise” became “sound”: he was given lessons, won three times the nationwide contest of “Youth plays music” and became a member of the federal Youth Orchestra. Then he studied classical drums at the College of Music, Cologne, Dept. of Aachen, for five years. This was followed by studies of jazz at the Hogeschool voor de Kunsten Arnhem/NL and he received a scholarship from the Berklee College of Music Boston/USA. Since 1997, Heiko has been working as a freelance musician and has joined stage with with artists such as Jeff Lorber, Eric Darius, David Benoit, Warren Hill and Marc Antoine, as well as Anna Maria Kaufmann, Onita Boone and Worthington Davis. In addition to numerous television appearances where he has worked with e.g. Rod Stewart, Xavier Naidoo, John Miles or Shaggy, he has also appeared in musicals such as La Cage aux Folles and Saturday Night Fever.

Festival Musicians | Artists 23

CHRISTOPH LINDNER | Guitar www.facebook.com/christoph.lindner.549

LUTZ DETERRA | Keyboards www.deterra.de

German guitarist Christoph Lindner has worked as a sideman and studio player besides being a songwriter for several releases. Chris took lessons e.g. with the renowned professor for jazz guitar Heiner Beringmeier and graduated from the course of study for popular music at the academy for music in Hamburg. Since he has been working as a professional musician, he has toured Europe and Canada with various artists and played on albums of such big names like Marla Glenn, Michael Bolton, Andy Fraser or Bobby Kimball. Besides from playing guitar on Jingles, Trailers and film scores for TV he was booked for several tours like the European Rocky Horror Show and for numerous musical shows and plays like Mamma Mia, Hairspray or Miami Nights. In addition, he played hundreds of clinics and shows (e.g. NAMM Show LA) for Yamaha and other brands. Since 2008, Chris has been endorser for the boutiqueamp- and effectsmanufacterer Tonehunter. Last but not least, he writes and produces his own music, e.g. instrumental CD’s like “Grooving Bone Guitars” or the upcoming album of his trio Lindybunch (together with Simon Scheibel (drums) and Martin Zänder (bass).

The pianist, composer, arranger and producer Lutz Deterra was touring on international stages such as the Wembley Hall in London or the Kumputa Festival Hall in Kuala Lumpur on behalf of the company Technics Musical Instruments from 1982. In 1991, Lutz became member of the Matsushita Musician’s team, which was designing the musical software and concepts of Technics keyboards in Japan. In that time, he also met the jazz musician Dave Grusin, with whom he toured in England later. His quick ability to adapt and his “quick ear” made him a popular session musician in Germany. Since then, Lutz Deterra has been playing in several band formations and as a keyboardist in diverse musical world successes, such as Starlight Express, Elizabeth, Miami Nights, Tabaluga and Saturday Night Fever. In 1997, he released his first solo album “Out of my pocket“. In 1999, he became musical director of the California Sunset Records Allstar Band and toured through Europe with stars of the U.S. jazz scene like Nelson Rangell, Nathan East, Rick Braun, Peter White, Eric Marienthal and Gabriela Anders. This was followed by engagements with Marla Glen in the ARD (TV), Jennifer Rush in London and 72 times in the TV show “Have you ever” on VOX. Till this date, Lutz Deterra prefers performing live on stage. In 2011, he released his second CD “Rue Parnasse”.

MARIUS GOLDHAMMER | Bass www.mariusgoldhammer.net

MARCUS FINNIE | Drums www.marcusfinnie.com

Marius Goldhammer has worked as a professional bassplayer since 1988. A Cologne native, he has been playing in countless international bands ranging from Funk, Soul, Rock, Jazz, Pop, Folk to theater, film, television, musical, studio and dancefloor productions. His tours – he plays around 150 to 200 concerts each year – have brought him all over Europe, Sibiria, Japan, Emirates, India, Australia as well as North and South Africa. Being a busy studio bassist in Germany also, he has played on more than 250 CD productions/jingles/soundtracks. Marius is lecturer for electric bass at the conservatories of music in Cologne and Osnabrück and tought masterclasses at the universities of Maastricht, Enschede and Arnhem (NL). He also works as a musical director and composes/produces for his own Electrojazz projects. In March 2003, he opened the “1st European Bassday” in Venlo (NL) with his band “SpaceTribez”. Currently, Marius tours with goldhammer, Rüdiger Baldauf, Jackson Trip, Superstuff and many others. His first solo album “Goldhammer” was released in 2009, its current “XYZ” followed in 2014.

A Memphis native, Marcus Finnie began playing drums at church accompanying his mother on organ. Once he moved to Murfreesboro for college, he furthered his musical experience in marching band, jazz band and orchestra. He then switched his major to the school’s most popular major, “Recording Arts” to learn production and studio techniques. While in college he interned with Grammy Producers Cedric and Victor Caldwell where he got to record with Smokie Norful, T.D. Jakes, Vickie Winans and Donnie McClurkin. After college that year, one gig led to another that led to another. After having toured the summer with Contemporary Christian Artist Warren Barfield, he got the call to go on the road with Donna Summer. While on the road with her, he met Billy Preston and in between Donna’s tours, he went out with Billy Preston and Larry Carlton traveling over seas numerous times within weeks. Over the last few years on he would go on to tour Japan and South Africa with Earl Klugh, Kirk Whalum and shortly afterwards BWB (Rick Braun, Kirk Whalum, and Norman Brown). Marcus also performed with Lalah Hathaway, Keiko Matsui, Nelson Rangell, Chuck Wicks, Gerald Veasly, Monty Montgo mery, and Gerald Albright. He continues recording and touring while teaching and conducting clinics. He also writes, produces and arranges R&B, pop and jazz.

24 Artists | Festival Musicians

Festival Musicians Christoph Lindner

Lutz Deterra

Images: Nadine Targiel, Christian Nordstrรถm, Marcus Finnie, Rene Van Der Voorden

Marcus Finnie

Marius Goldhammer

Festival Musicians | Artists 25

26 Location | Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa

Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa | Location 27

Open-air Allstar Show at the historic unﬁnished church Església Nova

Review: 5th annual Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2016

Gerald Veasley

Europe‘s status quo of Smooth Jazz Review by Peter Böhi of smoothjazzvibes.com

Bodega trip with wine-tasting and live music

28 Smooth Lifestyle | Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2016

All images: Christian Nordström

At the Welcome Gala Dinner

Eric Darius

Team Harmony

The 5th annual Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival took place like every year at the Protur Biomar Hotel in Mallorca, Spain over the first weekend in May, featuring a top-notch lineup of smooth jazz players, backed by two local bands of professional players from Germany and England. Smooth jazz fans from all over Europe and the US gathered on this Mediterranean island to have fun, meet like-minded music aficionados and mingle with the artists who stay at the same hotel, often with their spouses. This 5 star hotel provides the perfect setting for this event, with the hotel director being a big supporter of the event. For the early birds, the festival started already on Tuesday with the gala dinner with all the artists and musicians present, plus a concert by the local jazz-funk band Saxophobia Funk Project, followed by excursions and other activities the next days for people wanting to experience the island. This year, a local Bodega was visited, enhanced by a concert of Team Harmony, a sax and harmonica duo from Holland. Wednesday night, the festival opened oﬃcially with the Smooth Jazz Allstars, a great jam session with all artist of the festival together which was held open-air at the unfinished church Església Nova in Son Servera, featuring Gerald Albright, Nathan East, Paul Taylor, Steve Cole, Gerald Veasley, Eric Darius, Gail Jhonson, Nils, Joey Sommerville and more. Thursday night bassist Gerald Veasley did a well received performance, while saxophonist Eric Darius brought the house down with his high

Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 | Smooth Lifestyle 29

Gail Jhonson

Gerald Albright in the crowd

I joined the festivities a little later on Friday with the show of keyboardist Gail Jhonson doing her own music, mainly featuring material from her last two albums “Her Story” and “New Beginnings”, with special guest Steve Cole on sax, followed by saxophonist extraordinaire Gerald Albright, who was vowing the crowd with his flawless playing and tight show. A funny thing happened when the “Soul Train” line he initiated ended up right on the stage, having Gerald jump onto the occasion, inviting everybody to get up on the stage and dance. Saturday provided four shows, two in the afternoon and two in the evening. Saxophonist Steve Cole kicked it off in style with his soulful playing, being a crowd favorite, his song “Curtis” gave me goosebumps. Next were Peet Project from Hungary, a great band of young players led by violinist Péter Ferencz delivering an upbeat show with lots of catchy songs, entertaining us to the fullest. After the dinner break, world class bassist Nathan East, supported by keyboardist Gail Jhonson who served as musical director, performed material from his current solo

release plus a few well selected covers, especially memorable was his rendition of Stevie’s “Overjoyed”, featuring the sweet sax of Paul Taylor. This was a very sophisticated and varied set. After that, trumpet player Joey Sommerville wrapped up the night with a funky show of instrumentals and vocals as well, he was supported by the great local saxophonist Ramon Miguel, who provided several outstanding solos. Sunday, the festival came to a close with the shows of saxophonist Paul Taylor, mesmerizing the crowd with his beautiful playing on the alto and soprano saxophones, drawing from his vast catalog, before guitarist Nils provided the last concert, doing material from his current release “Alley Cat”, plus some of his biggest hits, Paul Taylor guested on two tracks. As an encore, he played a beautiful rendition of “Europa”, which ended the festival in style. Once again, this edition of the Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival was a memorable experience with many exciting musical moments, enjoyable time with friends and artists, and some relaxation in the facilities of the hotel. Mark your calendar for next year’s Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival which will take place over the last weekend of April 2017.

Ladies‘ choice: Paul Taylor

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All images: Christian Nordström

energy playing. After this concert, there was the nightly after show chillout party with DJ Richard Edwards, having people partying till the wee hours.

Nathan East

Joey Sommerville

Nils

“What’s up, Steve Cole?”

“Just rockin’ the show, Peet Project.”

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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

32 Smooth Lifestyle | Review Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2016

Will Donato & Matt Marshak

Sara Gazarek

Welcome to Portugal! Welcome dinner

1st Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 at VILA VITA Parc Resort & Spa David Benoit

Vincent Ingala

Althea RenĂŠ

Peter White

Vincent Ingala

Michael Manson

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Review: Smooth Jazz Festival Augsburg 2016

Jeanette Harris

34 Smooth Lifestyle | Review Smooth Jazz Festival Augsburg 2016

Elan Trotman

JJ Sansaverino

130-years-old Park Theater

New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2DC;s Allstar Jam-Session

Lindsey Webster

Oli Silk

The best way to celebrate the end of 2016 & ring in the New Year!!! Euge Groove

Review Smooth Jazz Festival Augsburg 2016 | Smooth Lifestyle 35

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)

JEANETTE HARRIS – Chocolate Vibez A big thank you goes to Jeanette Harris‘ supportive parents. On their J&M Record label (Jeanette & Michael’s initials, Mom and Dad’s funds) all her albums are released. After her graduation in Berklee she started her debut album “Here and There”, followed by “Jeanette Harris Live at Platinum Live” (2003), “Reflections” (2007), “Saxified” (2010), “Smooth Holiday Greetings” (2010) and “Summer Rain” (2013). Now she is back with “Chocolate Vibez” (2016). Multi-instrumentalist Harris performs most of the instruments on her new album. On “Crown Royal” Jeanette combines the emotive base of the composition with her skillful performance on sax and piano. “Chocolate Vibez” lives from the tension between quick hip hop beat and longdrawn sax tones amidst the powerful synth bass. On “Steppin‘ Out” she works together with pianist Tim Watson, who brings some Philadelphia sound into game. Radio programmers should focus on “Folkish”, that shines with an outstanding melody. Dynamic flow, catchy song form and arrangement let you fall in musical ecstasy. Jeanette Harris is a musical force to be reckoned with. “Chocolate Vibez” renews my appreciation for what the real meaning of a universal musician is.

OLI SILK – Where I left off It‘s a long way to make a name for itself, when you are a keyboardist from UK. Oli Silk has made the impossible possible and achieved a great reputation in USA. Although an integral member of the band in Pizza Express, London, he often takes the transatlantic leap to be visible at numerous events in the States. He has come forward in the smooth jazz scene and the supporting musicians on his new album “Where I Left Off“ (2016) are reading like a Who-is-Who of this genre. The album takes a start with the meaningful title “Ooh Baby!” featuring star-musician Rick Braun on trumpet and trombone. The group has obviously fun and performs smooth jazz on steroids. When a musician pulls the reverb, then you can be sure, that something important is in the tube. Oli Silk swings the melody with grace and elegance. The Latin flavored “Take Me Away” is written for Peter White and he is indeed succeeding the acoustic guitar in his impeccable and unmatched way. “Rest Assured” has so many rich textures with crystal-clearly chased tonality that only Althea Rene‘s flute is permitted to outdo the former in attractiveness or brilliance. “Where I Left Off ” is rock solid and belongs in every smooth jazz fans‘ collection as one of the best albums of last year.

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PETER WHITE – Grovin‘ A highlight of my life was the private concert, which Peter White gave in the circle of a selected fan base during the Smooth Jazz Cruise 2005. He could access a great song repertoire with ease. He was playing so to speak “you-asked-for-it” songs. This broad knowledge of well-known songs is also mirrored in his typical cover albums “Reflections” (1994) and “Playin’ Favorites” (2006). He continues this tradition with “Groovin’” (2016). “Groovin’” by the Young Rascals (1967) had perfectly internalized the relaxed and peaceful feeling of a Sunday morning. Peter White crystallizes these emotions in a new arrangement with his acoustic guitar in the lead and joined by Rick Braun’s muted trumpet. “(Sittin’ On) The Dock of the Bay”, a song co-written by soul singer Otis Redding and guitarist Steve Cropper (1968), imparts a lonely, melancholic and introspective emotion of wasting time. Peter catches the melancholy of the original passionately without descending into mannerism or exaggeration of his artistry. The sheer beauty of Peter White’s collection album “Groovin’” enthralls every listener leaving him in unique admiration.

SHAKATAK – Times and Places In the long lasting time of their band history they were welcomed worldwide at countless festivals. They have released numerous albums in a period of nearly four decades. We talk about UK‘s first ambassadors of Brit Funk, the legendary group Shakatak. Their new album “Times and Places” was released in Europe and US in September 2016. “I Will Be There” singer Jill Seward promises in a skillful way of melodic bliss. Bill Sharpe shares the melody with flavored key strokes. On “Time And Place” Jill spreads her optimistic view of our own fate and personal relationship. “Coralie” describes the growth of a beauty which leaves behind her mark in the world of men. Who can capture the splendor of a woman in sounds? The song is very close to the characteristics of acoustic sun rays. “Cape Town” is a mélange of jazz and pop featuring a tribute to South Africa‘s mega city. Supreme prowess of all musicians speaks for itself. On “Sand And The Sea” the ensemble expresses their aﬃnity for the ocean and for a good life around in a harmonic ebb and flow. With “Times And Places” Shakatak present the full potential of an experienced live group. With demanding flawlessness the band delivers another proof of excellence in their continuous career.

EUROPE’S NEW SOUL, FUNK & JAZZ PARTY | WWW.ALGARVE.SMOOTHJAZZFESTIVAL.DE | FON +49 821 2292711

7. MALLORCA SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL 26. April – 30. April 2018

*** SINCE 2012 EUROPE’S GREATEST SOUL, FUNK & JAZZ PARTY *** WWW.MALLORCA.SMOOTHJAZZFESTIVAL.DE ***

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