Smooth Style - Magazine of Europe's only Smooth Jazz Festivals

Smooth Style Magazine of the Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival on 13. - 19. May 2019 at Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa

7 Days 5 Areas 43 Artists 18 Shows plus Aftershow-Parties

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

The Soul, Funk & Jazz Party in Sa Coma

8th Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival

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Festival Partner & Imprint

8. MALLORCA SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL 13. – 19. May 2019

Presentado por: / Präsentiert von: / Presented by:

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

Medios asociados / Medienpartner / Media Partner

Patrocinadores / Sponsoren / Sponsors

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: 4/2019 Alle Angaben trotz sorgfältiger Bearbeitung ohne Gewähr.

No responsibility is taken for the correctness of the details provided.

Foto de portada / Titelfoto / Cover photo: Marion Meadows

Contenido Inhalt Content Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival Intro �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������3 Saludo / Begrüßung / Salutation ������������������������������������������������������������������4 Programa del festival / Festivalprogramm / Festival program �����������5 Artistas / Künstler / Artists Oli Silk ����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������7 Rob Zinn | Bart Brandjes ������������������������������������������������������������������������������8 | 9 Chieli Minucci | DW3 ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������10 | 11 Chris Walker | Eric Darius ������������������������������������������������������������������������12 | 13 Marion Meadows | Mezzoforte ���������������������������������������������������������������14 | 15 Julian Vaughn | Four80East �������������������������������������������������������������������16 | 17 Ragan Whiteside | Richard Elliot �����������������������������������������������������������18 | 19 Greg Manning | Jeff Ryan ������������������������������������������������������������������������20 | 21 Steve Oliver | Pieces of a Dream �������������������������������������������������������������22 | 23 Featured Artists ��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������24 Ubicación / Location / Location Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa ��������������������������������������������������������������������30 Smooth Lifestyle Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2018 ����������������������������������������������32 Review Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2018 ������������������������������������������������38 CD Reseñas / CD-Tipps / CD Reviews ���������������������������������������������������������42 Upcoming Festivals �������������������������������������������������������������������������������������������43

Intro | Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival

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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 has been awaiting 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 high-grade 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.

Music travel organizers Sandra Hoffmann and Christian Bößner - presenters of the European Smooth Jazz Festivals are looking forward to having a wonderful time with you.

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 área de spa de gran valor, extensos jardines, piscina exterior y cubierta. Situado a tan sólo 300 metros de la playa, junto al parque natural 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.

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Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival | Salutation

Image: Christian Nordström

ood 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 hochwertig 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.

Reserva / 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

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

Programa/Conciertos · Programm/Konzerte · Program/Concerts Lunes, 13 de Mayo / Montag, 13. Mai / Monday, May 13 19:00 h 21:30 h

ART/MUSIC/DINNER feat. OLI SILK @Art Gallery* SA XO PH O B IA F UN K PROJE CT @Piano Bar*

Martes, 14 de Mayo / Dienstag, 14. Mai / Tuesday, May 14 19:00 h 21:30 h

Welcome Gala Dinner* B A RT B R A ND J E S & ROB ZIN N @Open-air Stage*

Miércoles, 15 de Mayo / Mittwoch, 15. Mai / Wednesday, May 15 20:15 h 20:45 h 22:15 h 23:45 h

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance @Main Stage* C H IE L I M INUC C I DW 3 Aftwershow Party @Piano Bar*

Jueves, 16 de Mayo / Donnerstag, 16. Mai / Thursday, May 16 15:00 h

COOL BY THE POOL feat. jam session, chilled drinks & loungy DJ grooves and live artist interviews @Pool Stage*

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

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance @Main Stage* C H R IS WA L K E R E R IC DA R IUS Aftwershow Party @Piano Bar*

Viernes, 17 de Mayo / Freitag, 17. Mai / Friday, May 17 15:00 h

COOL BY THE POOL feat. jam session, chilled drinks & loungy DJ grooves and live artist interviews @Pool Stage*

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

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance @Main Stage* M A R IO N M E A D O W S M E ZZO FO RTE Aftwershow Party @Piano Bar*

Sábado, 18 de Mayo / Samstag, 18. Mai / Saturday, May 18 10:30 h 11:00 h 12:30 h

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance @Open-air Stage* J UL IA N VA UG H N FO UR 8 0 E A S T

15:00 h

COOL BY THE POOL feat. chilled drinks & loungy DJ grooves and live artist interviews @Pool Stage*

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

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance @Main Stage* R A G A N W H IT E S ID E R IC H A R D E L L IO T Aftwershow Party @Piano Bar*

Domingo, 19 de Mayo / Sonntag, 19. Mai / Sunday, May 19

Programa adicional Rahmenprogramm Additional Program

www.mallorca.smoothjazzfestival.de

10:30 h 11:00 h 12:30 h

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance @Open-air Stage* G R E G M A N NIN G & J E FF RYAN S TE V E O L IV E R

15:00 h

COOL BY THE POOL feat. chilled drinks & loungy DJ grooves and live artist interviews @Pool Stage*

20:30 h 21:00 h

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance @Esglesia Nova** PIE C E S O F A D R E A M

23:45 h

Aftershow Party @Piano Bar*

Festival program | Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival

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Make yourself at hoMe.

first row individually designed beach apartments in Cala Millor - Mallorca for rent. feel like staying with friends.

1 & 2 bedroom apartments available. each with balcony and direct ocean view. Contact calamillor.beach@gmail.com and ask for more information and our brochure.

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Festival Partner

Image: Graeme Holiday

UK-Keyboarder Oli Silk ist einer der dynamischsten und energetischsten Keyboarder des Genres.

Seine einzigartige Mischung aus jazzigen Instrumentals, funky Vocal Cuts, einem „stinknormalen“ Keytar und einem Vocoder verleihen seinen Live-Shows ihren Wow-Effekt und versammeln regelmäßig treue und enthusiastische Fans um ihn. Oli begann in den späten 1990er Jahren als Teil des Jazz-Funk-Duos Sugar and Silk, Musik zu schreiben und aufzunehmen. Mittlerweile hat Oli fünf CDs auf seinen eigenen Namen herausgebracht, darunter viele Chart stürmende RadioSingles. Auch als Musical Director hat er sich weltweit einen Namen gemacht – siehe nur die vier Jahre, die er im Rahmen des Dubai International Jazz Festival mehr als 30 Künstler auf der Jazz Garden Bühne „beaufsichtigt“ hat.

Wenn er nicht gerade auf der Bühne aktiv ist, ist er ein gefragter Smooth-Jazz-Produzent, Komponist und Arrangeur. Auch fürs Fernsehen (Oprah Winfrey, MTV, Miami Ink) hat Oli schon Musik geschrieben.

Oli Silk

FACTS 5 Solo albums I No.1 & 4 Top10 hits at the Billboard jazz chart I 2x Debut Artist of the Year DISCOGRAPHY Where I Left Off (2016) Razor Sharp Brit (2013) All We Need (2010) The Limit’s The Sky (2008) So Many Ways (2006) www.olisilk.com

El teclista reinounidense Oli Silk es uno de los más dinámicos y energéticos del género.

Su mezcla única de piezas instrumentales jazzísticas, “funky vocal cuts”, un keytar muy común y corriente y un vocoder otorgan a sus actuaciones en vivo un efecto “wow” y reúnen con regularidad a seguidores fieles y entusiasmados alrededor de él. Como parte del duo de jazz y funk “Sugar and Silk“ Oli comenzó a escribir y grabar música a finales de los noventa. Entretanto Oli ha publicado cinco discos compactos bajo su propio nombre, entre ellos muchos sencillos para la radio que conquistaron los rankings.

También se ha hecho famoso mundialmente como director musical – sólo sean mencionados los cuatro años en los que “supervisó” a 30 artistas en el escenario “Jazz Garden” en el marco del festival internacional de jazz en Dubai. Cuando no está actuando en algún escenario es productor, compositor y arreglador solicitado del smooth jazz. También ya ha escrito música para la televisión (Oprah Winfrey, MTV, Miami Ink).

Oli Silk live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Monday, 13. May, 19:00 h

UK-Keyboardist Oli Silk is one of the most dynamic and energetic keyboardists in the genre. 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 began writing and recording music as part of jazz funk duo ‘Sugar and Silk’ in the late 1990’s. Meanwhile, Oli has 5 CD’s to his name, including many chart topping radio singles. 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. Oli has also composed music for TV (Oprah Winfrey, MTV, Miami Ink).

Oli Silk | Artists

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FACTS 2 solo albums I 2nd album was selected for the 61st Grammy Ballot for Best Contemporary Instrumental Album DISCOGRAPHY Walk The Walk (2018) Yesterday Again (2016) www.robzinn.com

Rob Zinn stammt aus Maryland, wuchs aber in Delaware inmitten der Klänge von Frank Sinatra, Herb Alpert, Johnny Mathis und den Beatles auf. Er selbst entdeckte dann die Musik von Steely Dan, Tower of Power, Chicago und Chuck Mangione. Aber auf dem Plattenteller lag auch weiterhin Herb Alpert – den Rob aber zwischenzeitlich begleitete; er hatte mit 9 Jahren angefangen, Trompete zu spielen. Nachdem er in seinen Highschool- und College-Jazzbands gespielt hatte, begann er seine Karriere bei einer bekannten Swingband. Zu dieser Zeit brachte er sich auch Flügelhorn bei. Später schloss sich Rob mit diversen anderen Bands zusammen, mit denen er für legendäre Acts wie The Spinners, Kool & The Gang oder Tower of Power eröffnete. Auch während dieser Zeit erweiterte er sein Repertoire: Hinzu kamen Lead- und Harmony-Vocals, Keyboards und Percussion. Im Lauf der Jahre, in denen er als Sideman auf vielen großen Jazzfestivals zu sehen war, gab Rob zahlreiche Styles zum Besten: Funk, Latin, R&B, Rock, Pop, Blues und Urban Jazz. 2016 veröffentlichte er endlich seine erste Solo-CD.

A native of Maryland who later lived in Delaware, Rob Zinn grew up surrounded by the sounds of Frank Sinatra, Herb Alpert, Johnny Mathis and The Beatles. Later on his own he discovered Steely Dan, Tower of Power, Chicago and Chuck Mangione, while also playing along to Herb Alpert records.

Rob had started playing the trumpet at the age of 9. After performing in his high school and college jazz band (University of Delaware), he began his professional career with a prominent 15-piece swing band. During that time, he added flugelhorn to his arsenal. Later, Rob joined or gigged with several bands, opening for legendary acts like The Spinners, Kool & The Gang or Tower of Power.

Whilst expanding his repertoire to include lead and harmony vocals, keyboards and percussion, Rob has performed a multitude of styles over the years, including funk, Latin, R&B, rock, pop, blues and urban jazz. He has also played numerous jazz festivals. In 2016 finally, he released his first CD as a soloist.

Rob Zinn es natural de Maryland pero creció en Delaware en medio de Frank Sinatra, Herb Alpert, Johnny Mathis así como los Beatles y sus melodías. Por su parte descubrió más tarde la música de Steely Dan, Tower of Power, Chicago y Chuck Mangione. Sin embargo, sobre el tocadiscos seguía puesto Herb Alpert – el que Rob entretanto acompañaba porque había comenzado con la trompeta a los nueve años. Después de haber tocado en las bandas de la secundaria y de la educación superior arrancó su carrera propia en una conocida banda de swing. En esta época también aprendió de forma autodidacta el flügelhorn. Más tarde se juntó a diversas bandas con las que abrió “acts” legendarios como The Spinners, Kool & The Gang o bien Tower of Power. Además durante este tiempo amplió su repertorio añadiendo la voz líder y las armonías, las teclas y la percusión. En el transcurso de los años, en los que hemos podido ver a Rob como “sideman” en muchos de los grandes festivals de jazz, nos ha ofrecido una gran gama de estilos: el funk, latin, R&B, rock, pop, blues y urban jazz.

En 2016 publicó por fin su primer disco compacto en solitario.

Image: Rob Zinn

Rob Zinn

Rob Zinn live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Tuesday, 14. May, 21:30 h

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Artists | Rob Zinn

Bart Brandjes

FACTS

1 solo album I Reached quarter finals of “The Voice of Holland” in 2011 I His voice range reminds of Stevie Wonder & Donny Hathaway

Image: Bart Brandjes

Seine temperamentvolle Stimme und seine große Bandbreite erinnern an Gesangsgrößen wie Stevie Wonder und Donny Hathaway: Bart Brandjes, der jüngste aus einer Elf-Geschwister-Familie, wurde in den Niederlanden geboren. Schon in jungen Jahren faszinierte ihn Musik, besonders das Schlagzeug. Art Blakey war sein Held und Vorbild – Bart wollte dasselbe tun wie er. Dieser Traum begann wahr zu werden, als die Dutch Swing College Band in Barts Heimatstadt auftrat und er von ihrem Schlagzeuger seine ersten Drums kaufte. Von da an übte er fieberhaft und erste Auftritte folgten bald. Seine große Liebe ist Jazz, aber auch Soul, (Hard-)Rock- oder gar Schmusesongs inspirieren ihn. Abgesehen davon, dass sich Bart schnell als vielseitiger Schlagzeuger etablierte, erregten auch seine Gesangstalente Aufmerksamkeit.

2011 erreichte er das Viertelfinale von „The Voice of Holland“. Der Teilnahme an dieser Castingshow folgte eine Begegnung mit dem amerikanischen Produzenten/Gitarristen Paul Brown, der Barts Debütalbum „Real Life“ produzierte.

Su enérgica voz y su gran diversidad nos recuerdan a grandes del canto como Stevie Wonder y Donny Hathaway: Bart Brandjes, el más jóven de una famila de once hermanos, nació en los Países Bajos. Ya desde la adolescencia estaba fascinado por la música, sobre todo por la batería. Art Blakey era su héroe e ídolo ‒ Bart quería hacer lo mismo que él. Este sueño comenzó a ser una realidad cuando la Dutch Swing College Band actuó en la cuidad natal de Bart y él compró sus primeros “Drums” del baterista del grupo. Entonces empezó a practicar febrilmente y a esto le siguieron poco tiempo después las primeras actuaciones. Su gran amor es el jazz, pero le inspiran también el soul, el (hard-)rock e incluso canciones románticas. Aparte de que Bart se estableció rápidamente como baterista versátil su talento en el canto causó también furor. En 2011 alcanzó el cuarto de final de “The Voice of Holland”. Después de su participación en este casting siguió un encuentro con el productor y guitarrista estadounidense Paul Brown el que produjo el álbum debut de Bart: “Real Life”.

DISCOGRAPHY Real Life (2012) www.bartbrandjes.nl

His sultry voice and huge range remind of vocal greats like Stevie Wonder and Donny Hathaway: Bart Brandjes, the youngest from a family of 11 siblings, was born in the Netherlands. Already at a young age, he was fascinated by music, especially drums.

Art Blakey was his hero and role model – Bart wanted to do the same like he did. This dream approached reality when the Dutch Swing College Band performed in Bart’s hometown and he purchased his first drum kit from their drummer. From that moment on, he started practicing extensively and soon performed on stage. His main love is jazz, but he is also inspired by soul, (hard) rock and even sentimental songs.

Besides quickly establishing himself as an versatile drummer, Bart’s vocal talents also attracted attention. In 2011, he reached the quarter finals in “The Voice of Holland”. His participation lead to an encounter with US producer/ guitarist Paul Brown, who produced Barts’ debut CD “Real Life”.

Bart Brandjes live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Tuesday, 14. May, 21:30 h

Bart Brandjes | Artists

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FACTS 8 solo albums I 3 Top10 hits at the Billboard jazz chart I Grammy nominated I 3 Emmy Awards DISCOGRAPHY East Of The Sun (2008) Travels (2008) Got It Goin’ On (2005) Night Grooves (2003) Sweet On You (2000) It’s Gonna Be Good (1998) Renaissance (1996) Jewels (1994)

Chieli Minucci

Image: B&W Photo

www.chielimusic.com

Guitarist Chieli Minucci comes from a musical background: His father was concert pianist and composer Ulpio Minucci. Chieli himself attended Ithaca College in upstate NY, where he initially majored in music, studying classical guitar, and continued as an English Major. He also attended Queens College in NYC, where he studied literature. In 1982, he formed the contemporary jazz-fusion group Special EFX (Grammy nominated for “Modern Manners”) together with percussionist George Jinda. With the untimely passing of Jinda in 2001, Minucci made the decision to carry on as he would have wanted it and continue what they had started. Chieli and Special EFX have recorded a combined 29 CDs, 8 of those being solo releases. Besides writing and performing his own music, Chieli has shared his edgy and melodic driving style with pop artists such as Céline Dion, Lionel Richie, Jennifer Lopez, and Anastasia, as well as jazz artists Kirk Whalum, Jeff Lorber, Norman Brown, Marion Meadows, Rick Braun, and many others. In addition, he is a renowned composer for TV and film.

10 Artists | Chieli Minucci

Chieli Minucci live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Wednesday, 15. May, 20:45 h

La vena musical del guitarrista Chieli Minucci viene de familia. Su padre era concertista de piano y el compositor Ulpio Minucci. El mismo Chieli visitó el Ithaca College en el estado norteamericano de Nueva York, donde primero terminó los estudios de guitarra clásica y después añadió una graduación “major” en inglés. Posteriormente estudió literatura en el Queens College de la ciudad de Nueva York. En 1982 fundó, junto al percusionista George Jinda, el grupo de jazz contemporáneo y fusión Special EFX (nominación Grammy de “Modern Manners”). En el 2001 murió George demasiado jóven, y Minucci decidió continuar, como él lo habría querido, con lo que los dos habían iniciado. Chieli y Special EFX grabaron 29 discos compactos, entre ellos ocho como publicaciones en solitario. Cuando no se encuentra escribiendo y grabando piezas propias, Chieli comparte su estilo marcadamente melódico con estrellas del pop como Céline Dion, Lionel Richie, Jennifer Lopez y Anastasia, pero también con artistas del jazz como Kirk Whalum, Jeff Lorber, Norman Brown, Marion Meadows, Rick Braun y muchos más. Además es conocido como compositor para la televisión y el cine.

Image: Chieli Minucci

Musik liegt bei Gitarrist Chieli Minucci in der Familie: Sein Vater war Konzertpianist und Komponist Ulpio Minucci. Chieli selbst besuchte das Ithaca College im US-Bundesstaat New York, wo er zunächst seinen Abschluss in klassischer Gitarre machte und dann einen Major in Englisch anhängte. Danach studierte er Literatur am Queens College in New York City. 1982 gründete er mit dem Percussionisten George Jinda die ContemporaryJazz-Fusion-Gruppe Special EFX (Grammy-nominiert für „Modern Manners“). Nach dem viel zu frühen Tod von George 2001, entschied sich Minucci weiterzumachen, wie dieser es gewollt hätte, und das fortzusetzen, was sie gemeinsam begonnen hatten. Chieli und Special EFX haben zusammen 29 CDs aufgenommen, darunter acht Solo-Veröffentlichungen. Wenn er nicht gerade eigene Stücke schreibt und aufnimmt, teilt Chieli seinen ausgeprägten, melodischen Stil mit Popstars wie Céline Dion, Lionel Richie, Jennifer Lopez und Anastasia, aber auch mit Jazzkünstlern wie Kirk Whalum, Jeff Lorber, Norman Brown, Marion Meadows, Rick Braun und vielen anderen. Zudem ist er bekannt als Komponist für TV und Film.

Hailing from La Puente and growing up in Los Angeles, brothers Eric and Billy Mondragon, began their musical careers in high school by playing club dates with their parents. Their father is a bass player, and he and their mom are singers. DW3, an outgrowth of that original family band, has been an evolving collective of musicians since then – but the core (Down With 3) members since 2003 are Eric and Billy as well as close family friend Damon Reel. Damon, born David Montelongo in Watts, California, is a Grammy nominated singer, songwriter and producer. With R&B, funk and contemporary urban jazz powerhouse DW3, the three of them became an integral part of the scene in 2004 when they played on the first Warren Hill Smooth Jazz Cruise and were subsequently booked as resident performers at Spaghettini. Since the mid-2000s, DW3 has built a massive following via their appearances on numerous music cruises and festivals. Eric, Billy and Damon all contribute lead and harmony vocals, while Eric plays keys and Billy adds percussion. In addition to own shows, DW3 has also performed with artists like Marcus Miller, Patti Austin, Bobby Caldwell, Brian McKnight, and George Duke.

Los hermanos Eric y Billy Mondragon son naturales de La Puente y crecieron en Los Angeles. Comenzaron su carrera musical estando todavía en la secundaria, con conciertos en clubs junto a sus padres. Su padre toca el bajo y canta, al igual como la madre. De esta banda familiar se desarrolló Down With 3, un colectivo de diferentes músicos, sin embargo, el núcleo está compuesto desde el 2003 por Eric y Billy, así como por el muy amigo de la familia Damon Reel. Damon, nacido como David Montelongo en Watts, California, es cantante, compositor y productor con nominación Grammy.

Con el grupo DW3, energéticamente cargado de R&B, funk y urban jazz contemporáneo, logran los tres en el año 2004 ser una parte importante de la escena, con su actuación en la primera Warren Hill Smooth Jazz Cruise. Posteriormente fueron invitados como “Resident Performer” de Spaghettini. Desde la mitad de los años 2000 la banda ha conseguido una gran comunidad de seguidores por sus actuaciones en cruceros musicales y en festivales. Aparte del cantante Damon también Eric (teclas) y Billy (percusión) se encargan de la voz principal y de las armonías. Además de actuaciones propias la banda ya ha tocado con artistas como Marcus Miller, Patti Austin, Bobby Caldwell, Brian McKnight y George Duke.

FACTS 3 solo albums I Top14 hit at the Billboard jazz chart I No.1 album at the UK soul charts DISCOGRAPHY Vintage Truth (2015) On The Floor (2013) Life, Love & Music (2008) www.dw3music.com

DW3

Image: DW3

Die Brüder Eric und Billy Mondragon stammen aus La Puente und wuchsen in Los Angeles auf.

Ihre Musikkarriere begannen sie, als sie noch an der High School waren, mit Club-Gigs, die sie gemeinsam mit ihren Eltern spielten. Ihr Vater ist Bassist und singt, ebenso wie die Mutter. Aus dieser Familien-Band hat sich DW3 als ein Kollektiv aus verschiedenen Musikern entwickelt, allerdings sind die Kernmitglieder (Down With 3) seit 2003 Eric und Billy sowie der enge Familienfreund Damon Reel. Damon, als David Montelongo in Watts, Kalifornien, geboren, ist ein Grammynominierter Sänger, Komponist und Produzent. Mit der energiegeladenen R&B-, Funk- und Contemporary-Urban-Jazz-Kombo DW3 avancierten die drei im Jahr 2004 zu einem festen Bestandteil der Szene, als sie auf der ersten Warren Hill Smooth Jazz Cruise spielten. Anschließend wurden sie als Resident Performer bei Spaghettini gebucht. Seit Mitte der 2000er hat sich die Band mit Auftritten auf Musikkreuzfahrten und Festivals eine große Fangemeinde aufgebaut. Neben Sänger Damon übernehmen auch Eric (Keys) und Billy (Percussion) Hauptstimme und Harmoniegesang. Abgesehen von eigenen Auftritten hat die Band auch schon mit Künstlern wie Marcus Miller, Patti Austin, Bobby Caldwell, Brian McKnight und George Duke performed.

DW3 live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Wednesday, 15. May, 22:15 h

DW3 | Artists 11

4 solo albums I Nr.29 hit at the Billboard hot 100 chart I Al Jarreau’s longtime Musical Director DISCOGRAPHY Zone (2011) I Know It’s Love (2005) Sincerely Yours (1993) First Time (1991) www.chriswalkersmusic.com

Before he began speaking, he began singing: singer and bass player Chris Walker was born and raised in Houston. He got his start with his family gospel group, ‘The Walker Brothers’. The Walker’s raised their children with a strong hand, and once Chris graduated from High School, he was all too happy to high-tail it to New York, with only 40 dollars, in pursuit of his dreams of doing his own music. With aspirations of attending the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music, he sold his bass amp and bought a one-way ticket to New York; despite being denied due to inability to pay the tuition. Fate, however, intervened as Chris was walking the halls and happened to come upon a jam session in need of a bass player. When he took the stage the school dean heard him and offered him a full scholarship – his career took its course... His musicianship garnered him collaborations with artists like George Benson, Four Play, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Candy Dulfer and many more. But a longtime dream came true, when he became Musical Director of Al Jarreau. He is currently working on a tribute CD to honor the life and legacy of his deceased mentor and friend.

Chris Walker live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Thursday, 16. May, 20:45 h

Antes de comenzar a hablar comenzó a cantar: Chris Walker, cantante y bajista, nació y creció en Houston. Empezó su camino en el mundo musical a través de la banda familiar de gospel “The Walker Brothers”.

Como los Walker educaron con mano dura a sus hijos Chris se sintió muy feliz cuando, después de terminar la secundaria, pudo dejar rápidamente su casa – con solo 40 dólares en el bolsillo, pero con el sueño en el equipaje de hacer su propia música. Su propósito: el New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music en Nueva York. Su camino hacia el cupo: la venta de un amplificador para el bajo.

Su mala suerte: el dinero no alcanzaba para la matrícula y lo rechazaron. Cuando Chris daba marcha atrás por los pasillos se encuentra a un par de estudiantes. Para su “jam-session” les faltaba un bajo. Pues Chris subió al escenario y – como el destino lo quizo – el decano de la escuela lo escuchó. Y como no podía ser de otro modo: le otorgaron una beca completa y su carrera tomó su rumbo. Sus habilidades musicales le regalaron colaboraciones con artistas como George Benson, Four Play, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Candy Dulfer y muchos más. Uno de sus grandes sueños se realizó cuando se convirtió en el director musical de Al Jarreau. De momento trabaja en un disco compacto de homenaje para elogiar la vida y la herencia de su patrocinador y amigo muerto.

Chris Walker 12 Artists | Chris Walker

Image: Chris Walker

FACTS

Bevor er sprechen anfing, fing er singen an: Sänger und Bassist Chris Walker ist in Houston geboren und aufgewachsen. Seinen Weg in die Musikwelt beschritt er mit der Familien-Gospelband „The Walker Brothers“. Da die Walkers ihre Kinder mit strenger Hand erzogen, war Chris nur allzu happy, dass er sich nach der High School schnell aus dem Staub machen konnte – mit nur 40 Dollar in der Tasche, dafür aber den Traum im Gepäck, eigene Musik zu machen. Sein Ziel: die New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York. Sein Weg zum Ticket: ein verkaufter Bassverstärker. Sein Pech: Für die Studiengebühren reichte das Geld nicht; er wurde abgelehnt. Als Chris zurück durch die Flure ging, kam er an ein paar Studenten vorbei. Für ihre Jam-Session fehlte ein Bassist, also ging Chris auf die Bühne und wie das Schicksal so will, hörte ihn der Schuldekan. Das Ende vom Lied: Chris bekam ein Vollstipendium – seine Karriere nahm ihren Lauf. Sein musikalisches Können bescherte ihm die Zusammenarbeit mit Künstlern wie George Benson, Four Play, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Candy Dulfer und vielen anderen. Ein großer Traum wurde für ihn jedoch wahr, als er Al Jarreaus Musical Director wurde. Zurzeit arbeitet er an einer Tribute-CD, um Leben und Erbe seines verstorbenen Mentors und Freundes zu ehren.

Image: Eric Darius

s u i r a D c i r E Er möchte nicht musikalisch eingesperrt oder eingepackt werden.

Es wäre ohnehin schwer, das zu tun, denn seine neueste CD – seine erste Veröffentlichung über sein eigenes unabhängiges Label SagiDarius Music – vereint wieder viele Elemente aus Hip-Hop, R&B, Pop, Rock, Gospel, Funk und Reggae und er sagt über dieses Album: „‚Breakin‘ Thru‘ repräsentiert mich als Künstler wahrhaftig und ehrlich.“ Der Künstler, der so unerschrocken alle musikalischen Grenzen überschreitet, heißt Eric Darius.

Er wurde in New Jersey geboren, wuchs in Florida auf und lebt nun in Los Angeles. Seine ganze Familie ist musikalisch: Der haitianische Vater ist Bassist, die jamaikanische Mutter ist Sängerin und Pianistin.

Der ältere Bruder spielt Schlagzeug und Trompete, die Schwester singt und spielt Klarinette. Eric selbst verliebte sich ins Saxophon, als er neun Jahre alt war. Mit elf tourte er schon weltweit mit Sonny LaRosa und America’s Youngest Jazz Band, mit 17, noch auf der High School, nahm er sein erstes Album auf. Später studierte er an der University of South Florida Musik und Wirtschaft. Mittlerweile hat sich der energiegeladene Saxophonist, der u.a. schon mit Prince, Mary J. Blige, George Benson, Carlos Santana oder Marcus Miller auf der Bühne stand, längst international einen Namen gemacht.

FACTS 7 solo albums I 2 No.1 hits, 4 Top10 hits & Top10 hit album at the Billboard jazz charts DISCOGRAPHY Breakin’ Thru (2018) Retro Forward (2014) On A Mission (2010) Goin‘ All Out (2008) Just Getting Started (2006) Night On The Town (2004) Cruisin’ (2000) www.ericdarius.com

Eric Darius live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Thursday, 16. May, 22:15 h

He doesn’t want to be caged or boxed in musically – and anyway, it would be hard to do so. His latest CD – his first release via his own independent label, SagiDarius Music – melds again many elements from Hip-Hop, to R&B, Pop, Rock, Gospel, Funk, and Reggae and he says about this album: “The project is a true and honest representation of me as an artist.” The artist, who is fearlessly pushing all musical boundaries, is called Eric Darius. He was born in New Jersey, raised in Florida, and now resides in Los Angeles. His whole family is into music: his Haitian father is a bass player, his Jamaican mother is a singer and piano player. His older brother plays drums and trumpets, his sister sings and plays clarinet. Eric himself fell in love with the sax at the age of 9. Aged 11, he started touring worldwide with Sonny LaRosa and America’s Youngest Jazz Band and aged 17, while still in High School, he recorded and released his first album titled ’Cruisin’’. Later, he attended the University of South Florida where he studied music and business. By now, the energetic saxophonist, who has shared the stage with artists such as Prince, Mary J. Blige, George Benson, Carlos Santana or Marcus Miller, has long made his mark internationally.

No quiere ser encerrado o empaquetado musicalmente. Pero de todos modos, sería difícil de hacerlo, porque su disco compacto más reciente – su primera publicación a través de su propia compañía independiente SagiDarius Music – ha vuelto a reunir muchos elementos del hip-hop, R&B, pop, rock, gospel, funk y reggae. Él dice sobre este álbum: “‘Breakin‘ Thru’ me representa como artista de forma verdadera y sincera.” Este artista, que pasa tan atrevidamente todas las fronteras musicales, se llama Eric Darius. Nació en New Jersey, creció en Florida y ahora vive en Los Angeles. Toda su familia tiene talento musical. El padre haitiano toca el bajo, la madre jamaicana es cantante y pianista. Su hermano mayor toca la batería y trompeta, su hermana canta y toca el clarinete. Eric, por su parte, se enamoró del saxofón cuando tenía nueve años. Ya a los once giró mundialmente con Sonny LaRosa y la America’s Youngest Jazz Band, a los 17 y estando todavía en la secundaria grabó su primer álbum. Más tarde estudió música y economía en la Universidad de Florida del Sur. Entretanto el saxofonista cargado de energía, que ha compartido el escenario con Prince, Mary J. Blige, George Benson, Carlos Santana o bien Marcus Miller entre otros, goza desde hace mucho tiempo de fama mundial.

Eric Darius | Artists 13

Marion Meadows

Marion Meadows ist in Connecticut aufgewachsen. Mit neun begann er, Klarinette zu spielen, stieg jedoch an der High School auf Saxophon um. Bald entdeckte er seine Leidenschaft für verschiedenste Arten von Musik, aber auch seine Vorliebe für Jazz. Nachdem er am Berklee College of Music seinen Abschluss als Arrangeur und Komponist gemacht hatte, besuchte er die SUNY Purchase School for the Arts. Seine Karriere kam in den späten 80ern in der New Yorker Grand Central Station in Fahrt: Auf einen Zug wartend, nahm der Mann mit den indianischen, afrikanischen und kaukasischen Wurzeln sein Sax und begann zu spielen. Sein Sound beeindruckte den ebenfalls wartenden Produzenten und Filmmusik-Komponisten Jay Chattaway so sehr, dass er Marion mit Keyboarder Bob James in Kontakt brachte. Die beiden arbeiteten dann bei einer Aufnahme zusammen, die leider nicht veröffentlicht wurde; trotzdem brachte diese Erfahrung Marion auf die Erfolgsspur.

Heute, mit 14 Solo-Alben, ist er längst eine konstante Größe im zeitgenössischen Jazzformat – aber er hat auch ein Leben neben der Musik: Er zeichnet und fotografiert. Dabei ist es seine Faszination für das Universum, die seine Fantasie anregt.

Marion Meadows creció en Connecticut. A los nueve años comenzó a tocar el clarinete, pero en la secundaria cambió al saxofón.

Poco después descubrió su pasión por muy diversos tipos musicales, pero también su preferencia por el jazz. Después de finalizar sus estudios como arreglador y compositor en el Berklee College of Music visitó el SUNY Purchase School for the Arts. A finales de los ochenta su carrera profesional se encaminó en la Grand Central Station de Nueva York: esperando un tren el hombre, con las raíces indias, africanas y caucásicas, tomó su saxofón y empezó a tocar. Su sonido impresionó tanto al productor y compositor de bandas sonoras Jay Chattaway, el que también esperaba al tren, que este lo puso en contacto con el teclista Bob James. Después los dos cooperaron en una grabación la que, desgraciadamente, no fue publicada. No obstante, esta experiencia llevó a Marion a la pista del éxito. Hoy, con 14 álbumes en solitario, ya es una figura constante en el jazz contemporáneo desde hace mucho. Sin embargo, tiene también una vida al lado de la música: dibuja y saca fotos. Aquí su fascinación por el universo es lo que anima a su fantasía.

FACTS 14 solo albums I 6 Top10 hits & 5 Top10 albums at the Billboard jazz charts I He is also a graphic artist, designer & semi-pro cyclist DISCOGRAPHY Soul City (2018) Soul Traveler (2015) Whisper (2013) Secrets (2009) Dressed To Chill (2006) Player’s Club (2004) In Deep (2002) Next To You (2000) Another Side Of Midnight (1999) Pleasure (1997) Body Rhythm (1995) Forbidden Fruit (1994) Keep It Right There (1992) For Lovers Only (1990) www.marionmeadows.com www.marionmeadows­ atmospheres.com

Marion Meadows live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Friday, 17. May, 20:45 h

14 Artists | Marion Meadows

Image: Marion ???????? Meadows

Marion Meadows grew up in Connecticut. At nine years old he began playing clarinet and changed to sax in High School. Soon, he discovered his passion for different types of music, but also his penchant for jazz. Marion majored in arranging and composition at Berklee College of Music, and later went to the SUNY Purchase School for the Arts. His career really began in the late ‘80s at New York’s Grand Central Station.

While waiting for a train, the man, whose ethnic mix is Native American, African American and Caucasian, pulled out his horn and began playing. His sound impressed fellow traveler, producer and TV composer Jay Chattaway so much that he hooked Marion up with keyboardist Bob James. The two collaborated on a recording which unfortunately went unreleased. But the experience put Marion on the road to his eventual success. Meanwhile, with 14 solo albums, he has long become a staple of the contemporary jazz format – but apart from being a musician, Marion is also a graphic artist and photographer. He often credits his fascination with the universe as being the fuel that stokes his imagination.

Image: Mezzoforte

It all began in Reykjavik, 42 years ago, when four boys, 15 and 16 years old, founded their band.

Eythor, Fridrik, Johann and Gulli shared an interest in music, from heavy-rock to jazz-rock fusion and funk. Thanks to their enthusiasm and energy, they got signed to the Icelandic label, Steinar hf, in 1979. Mezzoforte took three albums of experimenting and developing their skills, and then travelled to London to record what turned out to be the pivotal fourth album, “Surprise, Surprise”.

After the first single, “2Garden Party”, had reached #17 in the British pop charts, both single and album were released worldwide. Mezzoforte spent the next years touring many different countries. The young band members were thrilled to be sharing the bill (sometimes even topping it) at various international festivals with some of the biggest stars in jazz & fusion like Steps Ahead, Passport, Weather Report, Al Jarreau and Spyro Gyra. In all that time, the band has never broken up, but from time to time there are breaks, in which Eythor, Gulli, Johann and Fridrik concentrate on various own projects.

Mezzoforte

Mezzoforte live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Friday, 17. May, 22:15 h

Todo comenzó hace 42 años en Reykjavik, cuando cuatro chicos de 15 y 16 años fundaron su banda. Eythor, Fridrik, Johann y Gulli compartieron su interés por la música, desde el heavy rock sobre el jazz-rock-fusión hasta el funk. Con su entusiasmo y energía lograron obtener un contrato de la compañía de discos irlandesa Steinar hf. Durante tres álbumes los chicos de Mezzoforte experimentaron y desarrollaron sus habilidades, después viajaron a Londres para grabar el cuarto y decisivo álbum, “Surprise, Surprise”. Después de haber alcanzado con su primer disco sencillo “Garden Party” el nro. 17 en el ranking pop británico, el sencillo y el álbum fueron publicados mundialmente. En los años siguientes Mezzoforte gira por diferentes países. Los jóvenes miembros de la banda estaban fascinados de poder actuar en diversos festivales internacionales con algunas de las estrellas más grandes del jazz & fusión como Steps Ahead, Passport, Weather Report, Al Jarreau y Spyro Gyra (y de vez en cuando incluso supieron superarlos). En todo el transcurso del tiempo la banda no se ha disuelto nunca, pero siempre ha hecho pausas para que Eythor, Gulli, Johann y Fridrik pudieran concentrarse en proyetos propios.

Alles begann in Reykjavik vor 42 Jahren, als vier Jungs, 15 und 16 Jahre alt, ihre Band gründeten. Eythor, Fridrik, Johann und Gulli teilten ihr Interesse an Musik, von Heavy-Rock, über Jazz-Rock-Fusion bis hin zu Funk.

Es war ihr Enthusiasmus und ihre Energie, die ihnen 1979 einen Vertrag bei dem isländischen Label Steinar hf einbrachten. Drei Alben lang experimentierten Mezzoforte und entwickelten ihr Können weiter, dann reisten sie nach London, um das entscheidende vierte Album „Surprise, Surprise“ aufzunehmen. Nachdem die erste Single „Garden Party“ #17 der britischen Popcharts erreicht hatte, wurden Single und Album weltweit veröffentlicht. In den nächsten Jahren tourten Mezzoforte durch viele verschiedene Länder. Die jungen Bandmitglieder waren begeistert, auf verschiedenen internationalen Festivals mit einigen der größten Stars des Jazz & Fusion wie Steps Ahead, Passport, Weather Report, Al Jarreau und Spyro Gyra mitzumischen (und sie manchmal gar zu toppen). In all der Zeit hat sich die Band nie aufgelöst, wohl aber gibt es immer wieder Pausen, in denen sich Eythor, Gulli, Johann und Fridrik auf eigene Projekte konzentrieren.

FACTS 14 solo albums I No.17 hit in the British pop charts I Catchy melodies, strong grooves, exciting solos DISCOGRAPHY Islands (2012) Volcanic (2010) Live In Reykjavik (2007) Forward Motion (2004) Monkey Fields (1997) Daybreak (1994) Playing For Time (1988) No Limits (1986) Rising (1984) Observations (1983) Surprise Suprise (1982) Thvilikt Og Annad Eins (1981) I Hakanum (Octopus) (1980) Mezzoforte (1979) www.mezzoforte.com

Mezzoforte | Artists 15

El bajo líder, Julian Vaughn, viene de Kansas City. Creció en la iglesia donde su abuelo trabajaba como pastor hasta que este dejó las riendas a su padre. Al igual como otros chicos en la iglesia Julian comenzó su carrera musical como baterista, pero con el transcurso de los años se hartó de la lucha por los “Drums”. A los quince decidió probar otro instrumento. Cogió el bajo que tocaba otro hombre en la iglesia y se enamoró en seguida. Bendecido con la habilidad de tocar de oído Julian aprendió el instrumento en forma autodidacta y descubrió el arte del solo en el bajo. Como artista debutó en 2010 con su disco compacto “The Purpose Project”.

Entretanto no sólo gira en los Estados Unidos sino también en el extranjero y ya ha tocado en unos de los festivales de jazz más grandes. Se convirtió en un actor importante del género jazzístico contemporáneo e intenta definir de una nueva forma el rol del bajo líder en el smooth jazz generalmente dominado por el saxofón. A pesar de que muchas veces se asocia el bajo con el funk, en parte también reconocible en Julian, el gigante dinámico (Julian mide más de dos metros) apuesta más por un estilo de más finuras. En este momento trabaja en su sexto album.

Lead bass player Julian Vaughn hails from Kansas City. He grew up in the church where his grandfather pastored until turning over the reins to Vaughn’s father. Like other kids at the church, Julian began his music career playing the drums, but as years went by the fight over the drums got old. At 15, he decided to try a different instrument. He picked up a bass guitar that another man in the church was playing and immediately fell in love. Having the ability to play by ear, Julian taught himself how to play and discovered the art of bass soloing. As an artist, he debuted on the scene in 2010 with his CD “The Purpose Project”.

Meanwhile, he has not only been touring over the U.S. but also abroad playing at some of the largest jazz festivals. He is becoming a major player in the contemporary jazz genre, trying to redefine the lead bassist role in the sax dominated smooth jazz scene.

Although the bass is often associated with funk, the dynamic giant (Julian stands 6’7’’ tall) likes to play with more of a finesse style as well as some funk. At the moment, he’s working on his 6th album.

Julian

Julian Vaughn live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Saturday, 18. May, 11:00 h

FACTS

Vaughn

5 solo albums I 4 No.1 hits, 11 Top10 hits & Top10 album at the Billboard jazz charts I Taught himself how to play bass DISCOGRAPHY Bona Vide (2017) Limitless (2015) Breakthrough (2012) The Purpose Project (2010) Behind The Scenes (2006)

www.julianvaughnmusic.com

16 Artists | Julian Vaughn

Image: Julian Vaughn

Lead-Bassist Julian Vaughn stammt aus Kansas City.

Er wuchs quasi in der Kirche auf, wo sein Großvater als Pastor arbeitete, bis er Vaughns Vater die Zügel übergab. Wie andere Kids in der Kirche begann Julian seine Musikkarriere als Schlagzeuger, aber mit der Zeit wurde er den Kampf um die Drums leid. Mit 15 beschloss er, ein anderes Instrument auszuprobieren. Er schnappte sich den Bass, den ein anderer Mann in der Kirche spielte, und verliebte sich sofort.

Gesegnet mit der Fähigkeit, nach Gehör zu spielen, brachte Julian sich selbst das Spielen bei und entdeckte auch die Kunst des Bass-Solos. Als Künstler debütierte er 2010 mit seiner CD „The Purpose Project“. Inzwischen tourt er nicht nur in den USA, sondern auch im Ausland und spielte schon auf einigen der größten Jazzfestivals. Er entwickelt sich zu einem bedeutenden Akteur im zeitgenössischen Jazz-Genre und versucht, die Rolle des Lead-Bassisten im Saxdominierten Smooth Jazz neu zu definieren. Bass wird zwar oft mit Funk assoziiert, der sich teils auch bei Julian wiederfindet, aber generell setzt der dynamische Hüne (Julian ist über zwei Meter groß) lieber auf einen etwas finessenreichen Stil. Im Moment arbeitet Julian an seinem sechsten Album.

FACTS 9 solo albums I 2 Top10 hits at the Billboard jazz chart I Groovy electro-jazz DISCOGRAPHY Four On The Floor (EP, 2018) Cherry Picked (limited vinyl, 2016) Positraction (2015) Four80East Live (2014) Off Duty (2012) Roll On (2009) En Route (2007) Round 3 (2002) Nocturnal (2001) The Album (1997) www.four80east.com

Four80East

Four80East live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Saturday, 18. May, 12:30 h

Image: Four80East

Bei dem in Toronto ansässigen Electro-Jazz-Duo Four80East dreht sich alles um „den Groove“. Rob DeBoer (Keyboards, Bass, Gitarre) und Tony Grace (Percussion) haben aus ihren vielfältigen musikalischen Einflüssen einen unverwechselbaren Sound entwickelt, der elektronische Produktion mit LiveInstrumenten kombiniert. Vom anfänglichen Studiokonzept sind die beiden längst zum energiegeladenen Live-Act mit treuer Fangemeinde in aller Welt avanciert und auch aus dem zeitgenössischen Jazzradio sind Four80East seit der Veröffentlichung ihres Debüts „The Album“ 1997 nicht mehr wegzudenken. Für ihre neueste Veröffentlichung „Four On The Floor“ ließen sich Rob und Tony von ihren Anfängen als House-Produzenten inspirieren. Bei der EP, die am 30. November 2018 veröffentlicht wurde, haben sie mit der Sängerin CeCe Peniston zusammengearbeitet.

Four80East is a Toronto-based electro-jazz duo that’s all about the groove. Drawing from their diverse musical influences, Rob DeBoer (keyboards, bass, guitar) and Tony Grace (percussion) have created a signature sound that combines electronic production with live instrumentation. Although Four80East began as a studio concept, they have evolved into a live act and developed a loyal following internationally.

Since breaking out with their debut “The Album” in 1997, Four80East has been a mainstay on contemporary jazz radio. With their latest release, “Four on the Floor”, Rob and Tony have drawn inspiration from their early days as House producers. Featuring a collaboration with vocalist CeCe Peniston, the EP was released on November 30, 2018.

En el caso del duo de jazz electrónico, Four80East, residentes en Toronto, todo está concentrado en el “groove”. Rob DeBoer (teclas, bajo, guitarra) y Tony Grace (percusión) crearon de sus múltiples influencias musicales un sonido inconfundible que combina la producción electrónica con instrumentos en vivo. Los dos han abandonado desde hace mucho el inicial concepto de estudio para progresar a una actuación en vivo cargada de energía y contando con una fiel comunidad de fans en todo el mundo. Y desde la publicación de su debut “The Album” en 1997 tampoco uno se puede imaginar la radio del jazz contemporánea sin Four80East. Para su lanzamiento más reciente, “Four On The Floor”, Rob y Tony se dejaron inspirar por sus inicios como productores de House. En este EP, publicado el 30 de noviembre de 2018, colaboraron con la cantante CeCe Peniston.

Four80East | Artists 17

Auch sie war ein musikalisches Wunderkind, das bereits mit fünf Jahren durchstartete: Über das Klavier, die Geige und einen Abstecher beim Schlagzeug fand Ragan Whiteside schließlich ihren Weg zur Flöte. Mit einer klassischen Ausbildung am Cleveland Institute of Music und am renommierten Harid Conservatory verfeinerte sie ihren Sound und schloss mit einem Bachelor of Music Performance ab. Dann ging Ragan nach New York, wo sie in die Welt von Jazz, Funk und R&B eintauchte und mit zeitgenössischen Größen wie Patrice Rushen, Bob Baldwin, Kim Waters, Chieli Minucci, Frank McComb und vielen anderen zusammenarbeitete. In ihre bis dato vier Alben ließ sie eine Vielzahl unterschiedlicher Musikstile einfließen und ihre Sounds verweilen nie zu lange in diesem oder jenem Genre; so bleiben keine musikalischen Wünsche offen. Sich selbst und ihren Stil hat Ragan längst etabliert – nicht zuletzt dank eines Tourkalenders, der wichtige Events wie die Capital Jazz Super Cruise und das Seabreeze Jazz Festival miteinschließt. Derzeit arbeitet sie an ihrem fünften Album.

FACTS 4 solo albums I No.1 hit & 5 Top10 hits at the Billboard jazz chart I First female flautist to hold No.1 on 3 major smooth jazz charts simultaneously DISCOGRAPHY Treblemaker (2017) Quantum Drive (2014) Evolve (2012) Class Axe (2007) www.raganwhiteside.com

También ella era una niña prodigio de la música, que con sólo cinco años de edad arranca.

Iniciando con el piano, pasando por el violín y haciendo una breve estancia en la batería Ragan Whiteside encontró al fin y al cabo su camino en la flauta.

Perfeccionó su sonido con una formación clásica en el Cleveland Institute of Music y en el renombrado conservatorio Harid y se graduó con un bachelor en “Music Performance”. Después se fue a Nueva York donde se sumergió en el mundo del jazz, funk y R&B trabajando con estrellas contemporáneas como Patrice Rushen, Bob Baldwin, Kim Waters, Chieli Minucci, Frank McComb y muchos más.

En sus cuatro álbumes, hasta la fecha publicados, dejó fluir un gran número de diferentes estilos musicales, y sus sonidos no se detienen demasiado largo en este o aquel género. Con ello no hay deseo musical que quede sin satisfacer. Desde hace mucho tiempo ella y su estilo están establecidos no en último lugar por un calendario de giras que incluye eventos importantes como el Capital Jazz Super Cruise y el festival de jazz Seabreeze. En este momento trabaja en su quinto álbum.

Ragan Whiteside live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Saturday, 18. May, 20:45 h

18 Artists | Ragan Whiteside

A musical prodigy since the age of five, Ragan Whiteside found her way to the flute after the piano, the violin, and a turn with the drum set. She attended the Cleveland Institute of Music and the prestigious Harid Conservatory, where her sound was honed with the tried-and-true classical training, graduating with a Bachelor of Music Performance degree. Ragan then found herself in New York and immersed herself in the world of jazz, funk, and R&B, going on to collaborate with contemporary heavyweights such as Patrice Rushen, Bob Baldwin, Kim Waters, Chieli Minucci, Frank McComb, and many more. Her albums flow along a variety of musical styles, the sounds never parking themselves too long in one genre or another, leaving no aficionado wanting. With a touring portfolio that touts major events such as the Capital Jazz SuperCruise and Seabreeze Jazz Festival, Ragan has firmly established herself and her style, and continues to take it further as she begins work on her fifth album.

Image: Ragan Whiteside

Ragan Whiteside

FACTS 22 solo albums I Grammy nominee 11 No.1 hits & 9 Top5 albums at the Billboard jazz charts Richard Elliot wurde in Schottland geboren und wuchs in Los Angeles auf, wo er auf der Mittelschule anfing, Saxophon zu spielen. Als er bei Tower of Power spielte, hörten viele erstmals, wie virtuos sein Spiel auf dem Tenorsax ist. Fünf Jahre lang tourte er mit ToP, verließ die Band aber Ende der 80er Jahre, um seine eigene Karriere zu starten. Seitdem hat Richard mehr als 20 Alben als Solokünstler veröffentlicht und eins seiner Lieblingsprojekte war „Summer Horns“, das er mit Dave Koz, Gerald Albright und Mindi Abair aufnahm. Die CD wurde für einen Grammy nominiert. Sein aktuelles Album „Summer Madness“ ist funky, huldigt aber auch seinen R&B-Wurzeln. Begleitet von seiner Band und zwei weiteren Bläsern – Trompeter und Posaunist Rick Braun sowie Baritonsaxophonist Curt Waylee –, ist Richard bei diesem Album mit seinen handverlesenen Kollegen ganz bei null eingestiegen. Alle sind gemeinsam ins Studio gegangen, jeder hat seine Ideen eingebracht. Das Ergebnis der improvisierten Jam-Sessions: Ein Werk, das durch viele Stimmungen und Stile cruist. Von Latin- und African-inspired Soul Funk bis hin zu Soul Jazz und teils gar einem Hauch Fusion.

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

Summer Madness (2016) Lip Service (2014) Number Ones (2013) In The Zone (2011) Rock Steady (2009) RnR (2007) Metro Blue (2005) Ricochet (2003) Crush (2001) Ballads (2001) The Best Of Richard Elliot (2000) Chill Factor (1999) Jumpin’ Off (1997) City Speak (1996) After Dark (1994) Soul Embrace (1992) Power Of Suggestion (1991) On The Town (1991) Take To The Skies (1991) What’s Inside (1990) Initial Approach (1987) Trolltown (1987) www.richardelliot.com

Richard Elliot live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Saturday, 18. May, 22:15 h

Richard Elliot

Image: Lori Stoll

Richard Elliot nació en Escocia y creció en Los Angeles, donde comenzó a tocar el saxofón ya durante la secundaria. Con Tower of Power muchos oían por primera vez la virtuosidad de su toque del saxofón tenor. Durante cinco años giró con ToP, pero dejó la banda a finales de los años 80 para arrancar con su carrera propia. Desde entonces Richard publicó más de 20 álbumes como artista en solitario y uno de sus proyectos favoritos era “Summer Horns”, grabado con Dave Koz, Gerald Albright y Mindi Abair. El disco compacto fue nominado para un Grammy. Su álbum actual, “Summer Madness”, es funky pero también se entrega a sus raíces en el R&B. Acompañado por su banda y dos músicos adicionales de instrumentos de viento – el trompetista y trombón Rick Braun y el saxofonista barítono Curt Waylee – Richard y sus cuidadosamente seleccionados colegas comenzaron el trabajo en el álbum sin normas previas. Todos se juntaron en el estudio y cada uno llevó sus ideas. El resultado de las sesiones improvisadas: una obra que cruza por muchos estados de ánimo y estilos. De un soul funk inspirado en sonidos latinos y africanos hasta el soul jazz e incluso un matiz de fusión.

DISCOGRAPHY

Richard Elliot | Artists 19

20 Artists | Greg Manning

3 solo albums I No.1 hit & 4 Top10 hits at the Billboard jazz chart I 3x certified platinum producer for Universal Music Switzerland I Musical Director for all seasons of MusicStar (Swiss version of American Idol) DISCOGRAPHY Sugar & Spice (2016) Dance With You (2014) The Calling (2010) www.greg-manning.com

Greg Manning live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Sunday, 19. May, 11:00 h

Jazz, funk, and soul keyboardist and producer Greg Manning grew up in Zurich and was mostly exposed to Jazz by his parents. Yet, he discovered his deep love for music only after hearing “Isn’t She Lovely” by Stevie Wonder. Greg started playing the piano at age 12. Several years later, he moved to Boston to study piano and film scoring at Berklee College of Music. During this time, he was asked to compose the music for “Keep Cool”, the most successful and longest running German language musical. The musical led him back to Switzerland, where he continued to compose and produce for records and TV. After spending several years in Zurich, Greg moved to the U.S. permanently. Soonafter, he made his U.S. debut as the keyboardist for the 2000 “Back At One Tour” with Brian McKnight. He also toured for nearly a decade as the keyboardist/music director for Jonathan Butler. Furthermore, he performed with Gerald Albright, Dave Koz, Richard Elliot, Eric Marienthal, and Kirk Whalum, among others, but over the last years, Greg has focused more on composing and writing.

Image: Greg Manning

Jazz-, Funk- und Soul-Keyboarder und Produzent Greg Manning ist in Zürich aufgewachsen und kam vor allem über seine Eltern mit Jazz in Berührung. Seine tiefe Liebe zur Musik entdeckte er jedoch erst, als er „Isn‘t She Lovely“ von Stevie Wonder hörte. Greg begann mit 12, Klavier zu spielen.

Einige Jahre später zog er nach Boston und studierte am Berklee College of Music Klavier und Filmmusik. Damals wurde er gebeten, die Musik für „Keep Cool“, das erfolgreichste deutschsprachige Musical, zu komponieren.

Das Musical führte ihn zurück in die Schweiz, wo er weiterhin für Alben und Fernsehen komponierte und produzierte. Nach einigen Jahren in Zürich, zog Greg fest in die USA und gab dort im Jahr 2000 sein Debüt als Keyboarder der „Back At One“-Tour von Brian McKnight. Zudem tourte er fast ein Jahrzehnt als Keyboarder/ Musikdirektor für Jonathan Butler und trat, um nur ein paar Namen zu nennen, mit Gerald Albright, Dave Koz, Richard Elliot, Eric Marienthal und Kirk Whalum auf. In den letzten Jahren konzentrierte sich Greg aber vermehrt auf Komponieren und Texten.

Greg Manning

FACTS

El teclista de jazz, funk y soul así como productor Greg Manning creció en Zúrich y entró en contacto con el jazz a través de sus padres. Pero su amor profundo por la música sólo lo descubre cuando escucha “Isn’t She Lovely” de Stevie Wonder. A los doce años comenzó a tocar el piano. Unos años más tarde se trasladó a Boston y estudió piano y música de cine en el Berklee College of Music. Entonces se le pidió componer la música para el musical más exitoso en la lengua alemana, “Keep Cool”. Este lo trajo de regreso a Suiza, de donde continúa componiendo y produciendo para álbumes y la televisión. Después de unos años Greg decide regresar a los Estados Unidos para residir y allí hizo su debut como teclista en la gira “Back At One” de Brian McKnight. Además giró casi una década como teclista y director musical para Jonathan Butler y actuó – para mencionar sólo un par de nombres – con Gerald Albright, Dave Koz, Richard Elliot, Eric Marienthal y Kirk Whalum. Pero en los últimos años Greg se concentró más en la composición y en las letras.

FACTS 1 solo album I No.1 hit at the Billboard jazz chart I Powerful funk/R&B artistry with infectious melodies & killer grooves I Co-wrote and produced “Embrace” with Greg Manning

Aufgewachsen in Kalifornien und North Carolina, wurde Jeff Ryan in so viel Musik hineingeboren, dass er gar nicht umhin kam, selbst auch zu spielen. Sein Vater ist Konzertpianist, seine Mutter spielte Orgel und Bratsche, sein Opa war Musiklehrer. Jeff selbst begann mit sechs Jahren, Klavier zu spielen, und nahm Geigenunterricht, aber als er vier Jahre später mit Saxophon anfing, wusste er, dass er nun seine musikalische Heimat gefunden hatte. Schon an der Schule spielte Jeff in Jazz-Ensembles, aber erst das „Studium“ seiner Vorbilder – u. a. Richard Elliot, Grover Washington, Cannonball Adderley, Wes Montgomery oder Lee Ritenour – führte dazu, dass er einen wirklich einzigartigen Performance-Stil entwickelte. Er studierte am Berklee College of Music in Boston im Hauptfach Musik-Performance und danach Musikproduktion am Pyramind Sound Institute in San Francisco. Nachdem er jahrelang in regionalen Soul-, Funk- und Big-Band-Ensembles gespielt hatte, trat Jeff neben Urban-Jazz-Größen wie Marion Meadows, Eric Darius, Paul Taylor und Nick Colionne auf zahlreichen Jazz Festivals auf und fesselte dort Tausende mit seinem kräftigen, herzlichen Vibe. 2018 veröffentlichte Jeff sein Debütalbum. Er schrieb und produzierte es mit Greg Manning.

DISCOGRAPHY

Jeff Ryan live

Embrace (2018)

at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Sunday, 19. May, 11:00 h

www.jeffryansax.com

Raised in California and North Carolina, Jeff Ryan was born around so much music that it was begging him to play. His dad is a classical concert pianist, his mom played tracker organ and viola, his grandpa was a music teacher. Jeff started playing piano at age six and took violin lessons, but he knew he had found his true musical home when he started on the sax at age ten. Ryan was in jazz ensembles throughout school, but it was studying his musical mentors – among others Richard Elliot, Grover Washington, Cannonball Adderley, Wes Montgomery or Lee Ritenour – that led to developing a truly unique style of performing. He attended the Berklee College of Music in Boston as a performance major and later studied music production at the Pyramind Sound Institute in San Francisco. After years of playing in regional soul, funk and big band ensembles, Jeff has captivated thousands with his robust, heartfelt vibe at numerous jazz festivals, where he has opened and performed along with urban jazz greats Marion Meadows, Eric Darius, Paul Taylor and Nick Colionne. In 2018, Jeff released his debut album. His producer and writing partner was Greg Manning.

Image: Jeff Ryan

Crecido en California y en Carolina del Norte Jeff Ryan nace rodeado de tanta musicalidad que no cabía otra posibilidad que la de él mismo hacer música. Su padre es un concertista de piano, su madre tocaba el órgano y la viola, y su abuelo era profesor de música. Jeff comenzó a tocar el piano a los seis años y tenía clases de violín, sin embargo, cuando empezó con el saxofón cuatro años más tarde, sabía que había encontrado su tierra musical.

Ya en el colegio Jeff tocó en grupos de jazz, pero sólo sus “estudios intensivos” de sus ídolos – entre ellos Richard Elliot, Grover Washington, Cannonball Adderley, Wes Montgomery o bien Lee Ritenour – lo llevaron a desarrollar un estilo realmente único en sus actuaciones. Estudió en el Berklee College of Music de Boston “Musical Performance” como asignatura principal y posteriormente producción de música en el Pyramind Sound Institute en San Francisco. Después de haber tocado durante años en grupos regionales de soul, funk y big band jazz Jeff actuó en numerosos festivales al lado de estrellas del urban jazz como Marion Meadows, Eric Darius, Paul Taylor y Nick Colionne, fascinando allí a miles de oyentes con un “vibe” fuerte y cariñoso. En 2018 publicó su álbum debut. Lo compuso y produjo junto a Greg Manning.

Jeff Ryan Jeff Ryan | Artists 21

FACTS 11 solo albums I No.1 hit & 3 Top10 hits at the Billboard jazz chart I Multi-Instrumentalist, also known for his vocalese* skills

Illuminate (2018) Pictures & Frames (2016) Best Of So far (2014) World Citizen (2012) Global Kiss (2010) One Night Live (2008) Snowfall (2006) Radiant (2006) 3D (2004) Positive Energy (2002) First View (1999) steveolivermusic.com

Image: B&W Photo

Steve Oliver

DISCOGRAPHY

Steve Oliver live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Sunday, 19. May, 12:30 h

El guitarrista y cantante Steve Oliver nació en California y es un verdadero seguidor de un estilo de vida relajado. Cuando tocó con Rick Braun, Larry Carlton, Gato Barbieri, los Neville Brothers y muchos más los aficionados del smooth jazz sí sabían de su existencia, pero fue recién con la banda de Steve Reid en donde logra finalmente una comunidad propia de seguidores. En 1996 Reid contacta a Oliver a último minuto de un concierto, porque se habían retirado las personas responsables del acto de apertura y Oliver debía reemplazarlos. Estando este ya en el escenario como solista Reid queda muy impresionado por el arte de Vocalese* y el sonido veraniego del guitarrista. Oliver llega al Vocalese a través de Bobby McFerrin así como por el trabajo de Pat Metheny con Richard Bona y David Blamires, quienes acompañaban con ello los solos de la guitarra.

Después de su aparición Read contrató a Oliver para su banda de gira. Entretanto él mismo hace giras con regularidad y ya ha llevado numerosos sencillos exitosos a los rankings de Billboard del jazz contemporáneo. A pesar de ser conocido sobre todo en el campo del smooth jazz su trabajo está impregnado por muchos estilos, entre ellos el pop, rock, latino, electrónico y la música mundial.

Guitarist and vocalist Steve Oliver is a California native and a true follower of the laid-back lifestyle. Playing sideman to Rick Braun, Larry Carlton, Gato Barbieri, the Neville Brothers, and many others introduced him to smooth jazz fans, but it was with Steve Reid’s band that Oliver found a following. It was 1996 when Reid contacted Oliver at the last minute to fill in for a canceled opening act. Oliver hit the stage as a solo act and Reid was impressed with the guitarist’s vocalese skills and summery sound. Oliver had come to vocalese through Bobby McFerrin and Pat Metheny’s work with Richard Bona and David Blamires, who sang along with guitar solos. Reid hired Oliver after the gig and featured him in his touring band. Oliver meanwhile tours regularly on his own and has scored multiple hit singles on the Billboard contemporary jazz chart. Though best known for his work in the field of Smooth Jazz, he performs in a wide variety of styles including Pop, Rock, Latin, Electronic, and World Music. * Vocalese is a style of jazz singing in which the singer simulates the play of instruments such as a saxophone.

Whereas scat singing uses improvised syllables, vocalese uses written (often parodic, sometimes improvised) lyrics.

22 Artists | Steve Oliver

Image: Steve Oliver

Gitarrist und Sänger Steve Oliver ist in Kalifornien geboren und ein echter Fan des entspannten Lebensstils. Als Sideman von Rick Braun, Larry Carlton, Gato Barbieri, den Neville Brothers u.v.a. fiel Oliver den Smooth-Jazz-Fans zwar auf, aber es war seine Zeit in Steve Reids Band, die ihm dann eine richtige Fangemeinde einbrachte. 1996 setzte sich Reid in letzter Minute mit Oliver in Verbindung, da ihm der Opening Act für ein Konzert abgesprungen war; Oliver sollte einspringen. Als dieser als Solo-Act auf der Bühne stand, war Reid beeindruckt von den Vocalese*-Künsten und dem sommerlichen Sound des Gitarristen.

Zum Vocalese war Oliver durch Bobby McFerrin und Pat Methenys Arbeit mit Richard Bona und David Blamires gekommen, die begleitend zu Gitarrensoli sangen. Nach dem Auftritt engagierte Reid Oliver für seine Tourband. Mittlerweile tourt Oliver regelmäßig selbst und hat schon zahlreiche Hit-Singles in den Billboard Contemporary Jazz Charts gelandet. Obwohl er vor allem im Bereich Smooth Jazz bekannt ist, ist seine Arbeit von einer Vielzahl an Stilrichtungen geprägt, darunter Pop, Rock, Latin, Electronic und World Music.

Keyboardist James Lloyd, drummer Curtis Harmon and bassist Cedric Napoleon founded “Pieces of a Dream” in Philadelphia in 1976. They were still teenagers at that time and based the band’s name on “Pieces of Dreams”, a cover tune by Stanley Turrentine that they performed. The guys were swinging so hard as teenagers that the great Count Basie once proclaimed them “a tough act to follow”. But it was another jazz legend, Grover Washington Jr., who helped Pieces of a Dream become the internationally known stars they are today by producing their first three albums. Lloyd was only a senior in high school when the first record was released. Some years later, the group amicably parted ways with long time friend Cedric. In total, Pieces of a Dream has released 22 studio albums so far. Though jazz-based, the group also emphasized R&B and incorporated funk, quiet storm, hip-hop, new jack swing, and smooth jazz into their recordings. The band’s trademark are catchy riffs, infectious grooves and compelling vocals (ft. vocalists like Eva Cassidy, Barbara Walker or Maysa Leak).

Keyboarder James Lloyd, Schlagzeuger Curtis Harmon und Bassist Cedric Napoleon gründeten „Pieces of a Dream” 1976 in Philadelphia. Sie waren damals noch Teenager und benannten die Band nach „Pieces of Dreams“, einer Coverversion von Stanley Turrentine, die sie spielten. Die Jungs swingten als Teenager so heftig, dass der große Count Basie einst sagte, sie seien ein „tough Act to follow“. Aber es war eine andere Jazz-Legende, Grover Washington Jr., der Pieces of a Dream zu ihrem internationalen Durchbruch verhalf, indem er ihre ersten drei Alben produzierte. Lloyd war immer noch auf der High School, als die erste Platte veröffentlicht wurde. Einige Jahre später trennte sich die Gruppe freundschaftlich von ihrem langjährigen Freund Cedric.

Insgesamt hat Pieces of a Dream bisher 22 Studioalben veröffentlicht. Obwohl ihre Wurzeln im Jazz liegen, finden sich in ihren Aufnahmen zahlreiche Elemente aus R&B, Funk, Quiet Storm, Hip-Hop, New Jack Swing und Smooth Jazz. Das Markenzeichen der Band sind eingängige Riffs, ansteckende Grooves und fesselnde Vocals (von Sängerinnen wie Eva Cassidy, Barbara Walker oder Maysa Leak).

El teclista James Lloyd, el baterista Curtis Harmon y el bajo Cedric Napoleon fundaron “Pieces of a Dream” en 1976 en Philadelphia.

Entonces todavía eran adolescentes y nombraron a la banda según “Pieces of Dreams”, una versión cover de Stanley Turrentine, la cual interpretaron. Como buenos adolescentes los chicos tenían tanto “swing” que el gran Count Basie dijo una vez que eran un “tough Act to follow“. Pero fue otra leyenda del jazz, Grover Washington Jr., la que fomentó el éxito internacional de Pieces of a Dream al producir sus tres primeros álbumes. Lloyd estaba todavía en la secundaria, cuando se publicó el primer disco. Unos años más tarde el grupo se separó de forma amistosa de su antiguo amigo Cedric.

En total, y hasta la fecha, Pieces of a Dream ha publicado 22 álbumes estudio. A pesar de tener sus raíces en el jazz sus grabaciones muestran numerosos elementos del R&B, del funk, Quiet Storm, hip-hop, New Jack swing y smooth jazz. El emblema del grupo son “riffs” pegadizos, “grooves” contagiosos y voces fascinantes (de cantantes como Eva Cassidy, Barbara Walker o bien Maysa Leak).

FACTS 22 solo albums I No.1 hit, 4 Top10 hits & 5 Top10 albums at the Billboard jazz charts I Since 1976: the jazz-based group also emphasizes R&B, incorporated funk, quiet storm, hip-hop, new jack swing & smooth jazz DISCOGRAPHY Just Funkin’ Around (2017) All In (2015) In The Moment (2013) Soul Intent (2009) Pillow Talk (2006) No Assembly Required (2004) Love’s Silhouette (2002) Acquainted With The Night (2001) Ahead To The Past (1999) Pieces (1997) Goodbye Manhattan (1994) In Flight (1993) Makes You Wanna (1990) Bout Dat Time (1989) Joyride (1986) Imagine This (1983) We Are One (1982) Pieces Of A Dream (1981) etc. www.piecesofadream.net

Image: Pieces of a Dream

Pieces of a Dream live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2019 on Sunday, 19. May, 21:00 h

Pieces of a Dream Pieces of a Dream | Artists 23

Saxophobia Funk Project www.facebook.com/saxophobiafunkproject

Westley Joseph – Drums www.westleyjoseph.com

Images: Saxophobia Funk Project, Rene van der Voorden, Westley Joseph, Nate Philipps, K. T. Jones

Nate Philipps – Bass

24 Featured Artists

Gerey Johnson – Guitar www.gereyjohnson.net

FEATURED ARTISTS

Marius Goldhammer – Bass www.mariusgoldhammer.net

Featured Artists 25

Oli Silk – Keyboards www.olisilk.com

FEATURED A RT I S T S Orefo Orakwue – Bass www.orefo.com

26 Featured Artists

Images: Graeme Holiday, Christian Nordström, Eric Valentine, Marcus Finnie, Richbarr Photo, Orefo Orakwue

Eric Valentine – Drums www.velvetgroovemusic.com

Lutz Deterra – Keyboards www.deterra.de Marcus Finnie – Drums www.facebook.com/marcusfinnie.drum

Elle Cato – Vocals www.ellecato.com

Featured Artists 27

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

Dave Ital – Guitar www.facebook.com/daveital

28 Featured Artists

Images: Ron Reinhardt, Nadine Targiel, Dave Ital

Martin Feske – Guitar www.facebook.com/martin.feske

Festival Partner 29

30 Rubrik | Inhalt

Inhalt | Rubrik 31

REVIEW Incognito

Smooth Jazz Festival Mallorca 2018:

Tim Bowman

Let the music play…

This year’s 7th Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival took place as usual at the Protur Biomar Hotel in Sa Coma, Mallorca, Spain. Jazz fans from all over the world gathered at this great hotel to enjoy their favourite artists and meet like-minded people. This year’s lineup was simply awesome, making the festival one of the best in its history. I arrived Thursday evening just in time for the Smooth Jazz All-Stars show, which due to cold weather was not held as planned outdoors at Església Nova, instead it took place at the hotel venue, which was fine with me as well.

The evening was hosted by Oli Silk, the band consisted of Frank Felix and Marius Goldhammer (bass), Marcus Finnie and Heiko Braun (drums), plus Mark Jaimes (guitar). We got an overwhelming number of players to entertain us, during the first track, one after the other came onto stage to play: Euge Groove, Nick Colionne, Althea Rene, Chris Standring, Tim Bowman, Marcus Anderson, James Lloyd and Jazmin Ghent. During the varied show, each one got their solo spot to perform, most memorable were Althea’s rendition of the Roy Ayers classic “Mystic Voyage”, while Chris performed Herbie Hancock’s “Cantaloupe Island”. Apart of the covers, a lot of original material was played, in addition Marcus Finnie did one track from his Boundless release, while Mark played one track from his upcoming solo release and Oli did one of his hits. James was frequently summoned onto the stage to join in, always delivering with his playful energy. Despite decades in the business, this man still seems to enjoy every minute of it. They wrapped it up with an extended version of “Always There” with everybody on stage. Let me sum this memorable evening up as “smooth jazz bliss” provided by a lot of talented musicians that seemed to enjoy it as much as we did. The festival was off to a great start.

32 Smooth Lifestyle | Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2018

Euge Groove

Marcus Anderson

solo spots, he wandered out into the crowd doing his rendition of “Just My Imagination” which was beautiful. At the end of the show people were dancing and all had a good time.

Saturday noon saxophonist Marcus Anderson appeared, and was accompanied by Martin Feske, Marcus Finnie, Marius Goldhammer and Lutz Deterra. He kicked off his show with a couple of high octane sax tracks, bringing things up to speed. He did one song on the EWI, before he did a nice cover of Michael Jackson’s “Remember The Time”, then doing a few of his own compositions, like “Backseat Driver” and “Cup Of Joe” with a nice guitar solo by Martin. He did a stroll in the audience playing “Yearning

Friday night, it continued with guitar player Tim Bowman. He was supported by Martin Feske (guitar), Marcus Finnie (drums), Lutz Deterra (keys) and Marius Goldhammer (bass), with special guest Marcus Anderson on saxophone throughout the show.

They went through a string of Tim’s best tracks like “Rapture”, “Summer Groove” and others, for a blues track he had Nick Colionne and James Lloyd join him on stage. With all the talent at hand, this was the right thing to do. His show was upbeat and his fluid guitar lines went down very well with the crowd, his medley of Stevie Wonder’s “I Wish” and EWF’s “Getaway” had people on their feet. He was asked for an encore and did “Let The Good Times Roll”, finishing a great show.

Nick Colionne

Next was saxophonist Euge Groove, his band consisted of Mark Jaimes (guitar), Heiko Braun (drums), Frank Felix (bass) and Oli Silk (keys). He did a solid show going through hits like “Living Large” and “Born 2 Groove” with the usual badonkadonk contest, which was won by a gentleman with some decidedly expressive dancing moves. The band provided a solid foundation with Mark Jaimes having several

Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2018 | Smooth Lifestyle 33

For Your Love”, handing out roses to some lucky females. Having been a former band member of Prince, he paid his former boss a tribute with a medley, among the songs played were “Diamonds And Pearls”, “The Most Beautiful Girl In The World” and “Purple Rain”. Then he flipped the switch and funked it up with “Kiss” and Bruno Mars’ “Uptown Funk”, having people on their feet, finishing an entertaining and varied show.

James Lloyd

After an intermission, guitarist Nick Colionne took over, with Mark Jaimes, Heiko Braun, Oli Silk, plus his own bass player Gerrett Body. He dove right in with some uptempo tracks, featuring his awesome guitar skills, before he slowed it down with his rendition of “Rainy Night In Georgia”, featuring his silky smooth voice, having keyboardist James Lloyd guesting on this song. Other songs played were “Morning Call” and “Keeping’ It Cool”. During “When You Love Somebody”, he did a lengthy stroll into the audience, reaching out to his fans. For the grande finale, he had Marcus Anderson, Jazmin Ghent, Tim Bowman and James Lloyd joining him, first they channeled the spirit of JB, then did a long version of “Whatta ‘Bout You” pulling all the stops, having everybody solo, plus several audience members to get up and dance, it was off the hook!

Saturday night started with the show of James Lloyd, founding member of the seminal group Pieces Of A Dream which was discovered and supported by the late Grover Washington, Jr. in

Vincent Ingala

34 Smooth Lifestyle | Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2018

the 70ies. James released his first solo CD “Here We Go” in 2015 and emerged as a solo artist.

He was supported by Lutz Deterra, Martin Feske, Marcus Finnie and Marius Goldhammer. He entered the room from the rear playing his keytar, before he went through a sting of songs from his album, like the groovy “No Holds Barred”, the heartfelt “Granted Wish” and the fusion track “For The Duke In Me”, a tribute to the late George Duke. The show was mostly laid back, but time flew while we immersed ourselves into the melodic music of this man.

He wrapped it up with the keytar strapped around his neck and a lengthy stroll through the audience. This was a very satisfying show by a true talent who emanates boundless joy.

After a set change, Incognito led by Bluey Maunick appeared, the band consisted of Matt Cooper (keys), Fancis Hylton (bass), Francesco Mendolia (drums), a new percussion player hailing from the Philippines, the three piece horn section, plus awesome guitar player Francisco Sales. The lineup of singers consisted of Mo Brandis, Imaani and Joy Rose. They kicked off the show with a jazz-funk instrumental, before they did their greatest songs like “1975”, “Deep Water”, “Still A Friend Of Mine”, Stevie Wonder’s “Don’t You Worry ‘Bout A Thing” and the epic drums and percussion battle that has become a firm part of their show. The band was tight and all the singers were singing beautifully.

They finished their show well past midnight with their rendition of “Always There”, closing a great evening of music.

Sunday morning, upcoming sax player Jazmin Ghent did her set. She was accompanied by Mark Jaimes, Heiko Braun, Frank Felix and Oli Silk. She brought things up to speed with AWB’s “Pick Up The Pieces” with James Lloyd and the Temptations’ “Papa Was A Rolling Stone” with Nick Colionne guesting, but she dropped the ball bit on this one.

Nevertheless she started to feel more comfortable with the next few songs, among them her own “Chocolate Sunshine” and her heartfelt rendition of the gospel classic “Walk With Me” that gave me goosebumps. She did a stroll into the audience during the nice slow burning “Lonely” by Janet Jackson that gave each band member an opportunity to solo.

Then she had us get up and dance during her rendition of the Brothers Johnson classic “Stomp” and her hits medley of “Joy And Pain”, “Outstanding” and “Don’t Let Go”, which closed the show. This young female player is a great talent and with a few more years of experience, I am confident that she will join the ranks of the best of the genre.

Bob James

Jazmin Ghent

The Bob James Trio appeared next and were warmly received. Bob was accompanied by Pat Williams (drums) and Michael Palazzolo (acoustic bass). They started with an acoustic trio song, before Bob switched to the Fender Rhodes to play “Feel Like Making’ Love”, followed by “Night Crawler”, which was simply awesome and brought up vivid memories of my youth, when this music was blowing my mind the first time. After those two classics, they showcased a few tracks from their upcoming trio release Espresso, one of these songs being an acoustic version of “Mr. Magic” which was pretty original. Next was a great version of “Ain’t Misbehavin’”, before they wrapped it up with the inevitable “Westchester Lady”, that had guitarist Chris Standring guesting. They were asked back for an encore and did “Angela (Theme From Taxi)”. The band was great, Pat played in an understated and tasteful way, while Michael provided some exciting and groovy bass work. This concert by this living legend with his top notch sidemen was a highlight of the festival.

Sunday night, Vincent Ingala took the stage. He was supported by Mark Jaimes, Heiko Braun, Frank Felix and Oli Silk. He had the audience in the palm of his hand right from the start with his silky smooth tenor sax, playing a song from his brand new release Personal Touch. He continued with a few tracks from his already vast catalog, like “Can’t Stop Now” and “Coast To Coast”, before he switched to the guitar, one of the highlights was his rendition of the People’s Choice “Do It Any Way You Wanna” that was grooving hard. He continued on the sax with the title track from his new release, which went down very well, playing a little more than an hour, leaving a satisfied crowd.

Next were the duo of guitarist Chris Standring and trumpet player Cindy Bradley, tagged as C&C Soul Factory, accompanied by Marcus Finnie, Marius Goldhammer and Lutz Deterra. They had a certain chemistry and worked together well, playing songs from their respective catalogs. Chris Standring did “Oliver’s Twist” and “Static In The Attic”, while Cindy Bradley did “Lifted” and “Comin’ Home To My Baby” (dedicated to her dog), among others, providing an entertaining show. Both players have serious chops and are great improvisors. They came back for an encore, playing Herbie Hancock’s “Cantaloupe Island”, ending a great show.

REVIEW

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REVIEW

Cindy Bradley, Chris Standring

Althea Rene

Shakatak

Monday night, flutist Althea Rene took the stage, accompanied by Martin Feske, Marcus Finnie and Marius Goldhammer. She plays a beautiful alto flute and covered several tracks from her various releases, among them “Free” and “Gypsy Soul”. The band was cooking and Althea moved the crowd with her great playing.

She did a stroll through the audience and doing a lengthy flute solo where she pulled all the stops.

For the next uptempo song she asked for five dancers to join her on stage, she got ten, which led to a great party right on stage, which was fun. During the last song of her show, special guest James Lloyd came to the stage to play some mean fender rhodes piano.

She was asked for an encore and did her version of the Roy Ayers classic “Mystic Voyage”, where she traded licks with James which was in the true spirit of jazz, wrapping up one of the best shows of the whole festival.

The closing act were legendary group Shakatak, founded in 1980 and still going strong. Next to founding members Bill Sharpe (keys), Roger Odell (drums), George Anderson (bass) and Jill Saward (vocals, percussion, flute), we got Jacqui Hicks (vocals, sax, flute), and Alan Wormaid (guitar). The band went through their greatest hits, like “Night Birds”, “Streetwalkin’”, “Day

By Day”, “Easier Said Than Done” and others. They stuck to the songs closely and didn’t solo extensively, which was a bit sad given the talent at hand, they also did only one instrumental, thus not meeting my expectations. On the other hand, the old-school bass and drums solo featuring the slapping of George Anderson was pretty cool. They came back for one more, doing “Down On The Street”, having everybody on their feet, ending the festival in style.

Review by Peter Böhi of smoothjazzvibes.com Images by Christian Nordström of smoothjazzphoto.com

36 Smooth Lifestyle | Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2018

REVIEW

Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2018 | Smooth Lifestyle 37

Norman Brown

Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2018:

I feel good!

Review by Peter Böhi of smoothjazzvibes.com Images by Christian Nordström or the 3rd issue of the Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival we all met again at the 5 star Vita Vila Parc hotel in Porches, Algarve in Portugal from Oct 16-21, 2018. The concerts as well as the after show chillout parties ft. DJ Richard Edwards took place in a little pavilion holding a few hundred people, plus bar areas inside and outside. The festival was opened with the Smooth Jazz All Stars Jam Session featuring all players of the festival that were present that night which were most. The band consisted of Oli Silk (keys), Mark Jaimes (guitar), Orefo Orakwue (bass) and Andrew Small (drums; hereinafter ‘band a’), they accompanied a host of players who collectively started the show with ‘Cantaloupe Island’ ft. Brian Bromberg on bass, Rocco Ventrella, Paul Taylor and Michael Lington on sax, Matthias Beckmann and Lin Rountree on trumpet, plus Marc Antoine on acoustic guitar, bringing things nicely up to speed. During the rest of the night, the players alternated playing some of their own material, Rocco Ventrella did ‘Rocco Funk’ and ‘Soulful Strut’, Paul Taylor did ‘Super Nova’, Lin Rountree gave us his rendition of ‘People Make The World Go Round’, Michael Lington raised things a notch with his always heartfelt playing, while singer Lindsey Webster, who was accompanied by her musical partner Keith Slattery, impressed us with her powerful voice. My personal highlight were the impeccable contributions of acoustic guitarist Marc Antoine, who even did a brief stroll into the audience. Apart of the main players, the rest of the band got their solo spots as well, especially Oli Silk played some of his original material. They wrapped it up with ‘Superstitious’ having everybody on stage, even bassist Andrew Tolman stepped in briefly, plus the encore ‘Chicken’ that had us groove along. This was a nice start of the festival, and a little rain during the show didn‘t bother us.

Thursday night, the festival continued with saxophonist Rocco Ventrella from Bari, Italy. This player has been part of the festival for many years participating in the jams and guesting at other‘s shows,

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eventually was able to do his own show this year. He was supported

by Lutz Deterra (keys), Christoph Lindner (guitar), Andrew Tolman (bass), and Marcus Finnie (drums; hereinafter ‘band b’). The band was cooking, and they went right onto it with a few songs from his brand new release ‘Keep In Touch’. Among the songs played were ‘See You Smile’ and ‘Let‘s Funk’, where trumpeter Matthias Beckmann guested, before Rocco’s lovely wife Ilaria De Robertis joined the stage to sing ‘Quando, Quando’. The show continued with some more great songs like a heartfelt slow track he wrote when his daughter Margarita was born three years ago which went down very well with the crowd. Ilaria came back once more do sing ‘Yah Mo B There’, a great cover version of the Quincy Jones classic. They wrapped up the show with the seminal Grover track ‘Winelight’, leaving a satisfied crowd. Rocco has definitely joined the upper ranks of the smooth jazz world!

Next were the legendary Jeff Lorber Fusion, led by keyboardist Jeff Lorber, plus Jimmy Haslip (bass), Steve Hass (drums) and Andy Snitzer (sax), who came just off the Paul Simon tour and was able to join the band again. The band was tight as hell and went through several tracks from their Grammy winning album ‘Prototype’, providing ample solo space for all members. It was a joy to see these master musicians deliver this complex yet ultra-groovy music, with the whole band morphing into a cohesive jazz-funk machine, lifting the music to another level. They finished their great show with ‘Tune 88’, opened by a soulful gospel intro on keys, before the familiar melody kicked in. This show was a true highlight of the festival for me.

Friday night, singer Lindsey Webster and musical partner Keith Slattery did their show, accompanied by band a (excl. Oli Silk). They started out with a laid back vibe and built up the groove nicely, creating a loose party spirit allowing things to happen spontaneously, giving every member of the band plenty of time to solo, which was cool. Lindsey

Paul Taylor and „Ladies Choice“

paid tribute to some great singers doing Chaka Khan‘s ‘Ain‘t Nobody’ with saxophonist Michael Lington guesting and Aretha Franklin‘s ‘Natural Woman’, which went down very well with the crowd, plus one song by Jill Scott. Another highlight was her rendition of ‘Over The Rainbow’ done in parts acapella that kept the crowd in awe. She closed the show with some own current material, leaving a satisfied audience.

Next was guitarist supreme Norman Brown, he was accompanied by band b (plus Oli Silk). Being eager to play, he went through a strings of hits like ‘After The Storm’ and ‘Westcoast Cooling’ having the audience in the palm of his hand right from the start. In the middle of the set, he slowed it down with a solo guitar medley sitting at the edge of the stage, going through a Michael Jackson song and – while being in the mood – finishing with some Christmas carols, having some adoring fans in front of him. He continued with more classics, like Marvin Gaye‘s ‘What‘s Going On’ and ‘That‘s How Love Goes’, having people get up, culminating in some P-Funk to wrap it up in style. This was one of the best shows so far.

Saturday at noon, guitarist Marc Antoine performed, he was backed by band a. He kicked off his set with ‘Mas Que Nada’ before he played some of his own material. One of the highlights was the hard hitting

Paul Taylor, Matthias Beckmann, Rocco Ventrella

‘Latin Haze’, a track by Oli Silk where he guested on the album. Then his first guest, Michael Lington on saxophone, joined him for one song, before he went on with ‘Caminando’, a big radio hit from his collaboration with pianist David Benoit. Another highlight was the guest appearance Matthias Beckmann, who was invited onto stage spontaneously and did a great job with a heartfelt solo. Nice was also the contribution of Rocco Ventrella, who added some hot sax playing.

This was a very entertaining show by a consummate artist supported by a bunch of world class players.

Saxophonist Michael Lington was next, he was accompanied by band b. He went through some of his own material from his ‘Second Nature’ release like ‘Midnight Drive’ and others, then he did a nice cover of the Beatles classic ‘Eleanor Rigby’ which was a bit funked up. My personal highlight was his soulful rendition of ‘Everything Must Change’ with Norman Brown joining in. Another nice one was the throwback to the late 70ies with ‘Baker Street’ where he also took over the vocal chores.

For the grande finale, he invited Matthias Beckmann and Lin Rountree plus Rocco Ventrella on stage to do an ultra-funky version of the AWB‘s ‘Pick Up The Pieces’ with hot solos by all involved. They returned for an encore, doing the very nice Kenny Loggins classic ‘Danny‘s Song’ that brought a great concert to a close.

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Peter White Rocco Ventrella

Brian Bromberg

Lindsey Webster

Steve Hass, Jimmy Haslip

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REVIEW

Jeff Lorber, Andy Snitzer Michael Lington

3rdAlgarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2018 at VILA VITA Parc Resort & Spa Lin Rountree Saturday night, bassist Brian Bromberg performed some of his own material, his band consisted of band b. He opened his show with a couple of tracks from his current release ‘Thicker Than Water’, among the tunes performed was the breezy ‘Changes’ which was played on a specially tuned piccolo bass, giving Brian the opportunity to play the melody on a higher pitched instrument. For his radio hit ‘Coupe De Ville’, he invited Michael Lington to the stage.

Things slowed down for the beautiful ‘Your Eyes’, before trumpeter Lin Rountree joined in to provide some great trumpet playing. The show had a cool laid-back vibe despite the often funky bass playing and was wrapped up with a special cover of B-52‘s ‘Love Shack’, showing what a consummate artist Brian is.

After the intermission, saxophonist Paul Taylor took over, he was accompanied by band a.

The band played beautifully and laid down a thick carpet of grooves over which Paul Taylor played his sweet and sensuous saxophone lines. He alternated between alto and soprano saxophone and treated the crowed with tracks like ‘Crossroads’ and ‘Luxe’ among others, immersing the audience in a steady stream of smooth sax tracks. He did a stroll through the audience and invited a bunch of female dancers on stage to join him for ‘Ladies‘ Choice’, which was fun. He was asked for an encore and delivered the highlight for me, a groovy cover of Ronnie Laws‘ ‘Always There’, kicking things up a notch.

Trumpeter Lin Rountree opened the Sunday noon concerts with his show, his band: band b. He went through a strings of his songs like ‘Soulfunky’ and ‘Pass The Groove’ featuring his soulful trumpet playing. Several members of the band got ample solo space, keeping the funky groove going strong. Everybody had a blast – and Lin is an artist to watch.

The last show of the festival was done by guitarist Peter White who has been part of these festivals since the beginning. He was supported by band a, plus Rocco Ventrella. The band played like clockwork and provided the perfect backdrop to the acoustic guitar of the leader.

Peter went through a string of his own material like ‘San Diego’, and the great ‘Bueno Funk’, plus lots of covers like the inevitable ‘Papa Was A Rolling Stone’, ‘Do I Do’ and ‘Groovin’, especially notable was a solo rendition of the Beatles‘ ‘Here, There And Everywhere’ and an duet with special guest Marc Antoine. Another personal highlight was the beautiful ‘Perfect Moment’ which was pure magic. Every member had several chances to solo, especially Rocco did a splendid job on sax. This show was a highlight of the festival, providing sophisticated entertainment on the highest level.

Marc Antoine

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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)

JAZZ, FUNK, SOUL – Life and Times Jazz Funk Soul was formed by keyboardist Jeff Lorber, guitarist Chuck Loeb and sax player Everette Harp.

Late guitarist Chuck Loeb considered the group as a natural extension of the fun and high level of creativity that was taking place on stage each night. In this formation the trio was blessed to release two albums, the same titled debut album (2014) and the sophomore album “More Serious Business” (2016). Now the group Jazz Funk Soul has surprisingly reunited and welcomes its new member guitarist Paul Jackson Jr. “Life And Time” is the name of the new album. On Exotic Jeff Lorber sets the pulse with his synth bass and Everette Harp together with David Mann lights a firework of brass. This is the perfect playground for Jeff to expands his sound excursions on the keys. Paul Jackson jumps in with a short guitar solo. Blacksmith begins very horn committed with full cast, before Jeff starts. With Paul Jackson Jr. as new guitarist, Jazz Funk Soul has opened a new chapter in their successful band history. The legacy continues with Life And Times, the most precious things we hold in our hands.

NORMAN BROWN – The highest act of love Louisiana born guitar star Norman Brown has very successfully established himself in the smooth jazz genre. His numerous albums and appearances as well as his stylish collaboration in the super group BWB with Kirk Whalum and Rick Braun have contributed to this. His new album “The Highest Act Of Love” (2019) is just released on Shanachie Entertainment. Love is the focus of this album. On “Inside the Garden of Peace and Love”, recorded in guitarist Paul Brown’s studio The Funky Joint, the guitar sounds of Paul and Norman merge in a marvelous way to a smooth duet.

On “Peace of Mind” Norman and Kim Waters deliver a tastefully addictive and accessible palette of music. Kim Waters is not only a great saxophonist but also a multi-instrumentalist with sparkling ideas. “The Highest Act Of Love” is experienced and skillfully recorded smooth jazz of top notch musicians who know their craft. Combined you will discover the essence of the guitarist Norman Brown, one of the most popular musicians in this genre.

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KEIKO MATSUI – Echo Keiko Matsui personifies an enchanting mixture of Asian charm with distinct virtuosity. Her outward appearance harmonizes ideally with her spiritual music full of emotional power. With more than 35 solo albums she is an integral part of contemporary jazz with a melodious character. Her new album “Echo” was released on Shanachie Entertainment this year. This masterpiece belongs to the rarest albums with an unbelievable star cast of illustrious musicians. Unshakable is Keiko’s trust in good music. Melody, arrangement, mastery of instruments everything is perfect and of the finest quality. One can only recommend everyone to listen to Keiko’s album in full attention to get every detail noticed and of these there are many. “Echo” takes up residence in the New Age genre, with distinctly romantic vibrations, supported by Marcus Miller who moodily impresses on the fretless bass. Keiko Matsui has always held a special position in the smooth jazz genre, as her music combines elements from different continents and genres. Therefore, “Echo” is an intriguing hybrid of her very own musical personality and charisma.

THE ALLEN CARMAN PROJECT – Carmanology South Jersey born bassist Allen Carman started his professional music life with the band Renegade, but then put music on hold to become a lawyer. After more than twenty years law practice he returned to his musical roots. With his new founded band The Allen Carman Project featuring Phillippe Saisse on keyboards, Gumbi Ortiz on percussion, Andy Snitzer on sax and Luis Alicea on drums he is ready to storm the charts. The debut album is entitled “Carmanology”, and includes eight original songs.

“Groove Salad” was the first track, which was released as single in 2016 featuring the core of The Allen Carman Project with strikingly energetic saxman Andy Snitzer. A special delicacy offers “State Of Mine” with the world-famous top guitarist Nile Rodgers, who with his unmistakable groove also lends brilliance to this piece. It shouldn’t go unmentioned that Nile has also chosen this track in a shortened version as the title song for the album “It’s about Time” (2018) of his legendary Band Chic.

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