Fest Review: Playboy, Napa Weekend Getaway, Harlem Arts...
JUL / AUG 2017
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59 41 48 Feature
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59 Maysa - Sings for Fans Lifestyle Festivals 41 Dance Review 10 Playboy Jazz Festival Harlem Art Festival Feat: Roy Ayers - Rahsaan Patterson 26 Napa Jazz Getaway - Photo Concerts 48 Jackiem Joyner - CD 31 Asian American Music Release: Main Street Beat Festival - Photos 51 Gil Evans Orch. - Photos 34 KSBR Bash 2017 Backstage at the Bash 53 Nick Colionne and Gerald 38 Festival Guide - Jul/Aug Veasley at South - Photos 56 Orlando Concert Series Notes Kim Waters & Matt Marshak 08 Music News CD Releases Remembering 63 New CD’s 45 Pianist Geri Allen dies at 60
CD Reviews 64 Jeff Lorber Prototype 67 Tom Coppola TOCO Island Dreams 70 Robert Miller Project Grand Slam 72 Pieces Of A Dream Just Funkin Around 75 Live Tracey Whitney At The Outpost 77 Norman Brown Let It Go 80 Roberto Tola Bein’ Green
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SmoothJazz Jazz Art Jackson— Publisher/CEO May / June 2015 Doris Gee- - Research Manager
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Contributing Writers Keivu G. Knox
Charlotte
Maria L. Lewis
Chicago
Carolyn Beverly
Houston
Lisa Summers
Los Angeles
Ahlia Love
Philadelphia
Kimberly Sara Ramkhalawan
Trinidad/Tobago
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Contributing Photographers Candice Dixon Craig Mathew
Los Angeles Los Angeles
Darnell Wade
Los Angeles
Gabriel Mijares
Los Angeles
Mann
Los Angeles
Eleanor Preger
Lake Tahoe,, NV
Melanie Futorian Ron Hancox
New York New York
Tina Pruitt
Orlando
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Awards Notes
NATIONAL ENDOWMENT for the ARTS
RECORDING ACADEMY™ TO TRANSITION TO ONLINE VOTING FOR THE 60TH ANNUAL GRAMMY AWARDS®
Announces 2018 Class of NEA Jazz Masters 06/12/17: The recipients Dianne Reeves, Pat Metheny, Joanne Brackeen and Todd Barkan now join the ranks of the nation’s The transition to online voting, a move that provides the Recording Acadehighest honor in jazz, the NEA Jazz Masters for their many contributions to jazz. my's more than 13,000 voting members greater access and flexibility than A tribute concert on Monday, April 16, ever before. 2018, in Washington, DC. Eligibility Period: Oct. 1, 2016–Sept. Bill Withers to receive 30, 2017 Heroes and Legends Award Grammy win- First-Round Ballot Period: Oct. 16–29, ning recording artist 2017 will be honored with a HAL Icon Award at the Nominations: Nov. 28, 2017 28th Annual Tribute to Final-Round Ballot Period: Dec. 7–21, Heroes And Legends, 2017 September 24, 2017. The exclusive, black tie event honors achievement in television, 60th Annual GRAMMY Awards: Jan. film and music, and raises funds for per28, 2018 forming arts scholarships. The annual event will return to the Beverly Hills Hotel. Withers is a multiple Grammy winner, best known for his platinum hits, "Lean on Me", "Ain't No Sunshine," "Just the Two of Us," and "Lovely Day." Withers’ “Lean On Me” was performed at both President Obama’s and Clinton’s Inaugurations. 08| SmoothJazz Magazine Let the music take you…
BY: Shena Ross
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months ago, PAPJazz event organizer Festival - Haiti the Sights & Sounds and President of the Haiti Jazz Foundation, Joël Widmaier, was not deterred. Eager to offer attendees a vast range of unique and diverse expressions within the jazz spirit, the festival showcased over two dozen musicians from 13 countries. Running from March 4-11. The first day of the event kicked off at The Sugar Cane Historical Park (“Parc Historique de la Canne à Sucre”). Eager fans took their seats and happily awaited performances by Canadian jazz vocalist and pianist, Carol Welsman and Haitian/USA vocalist Sarah Elizabeth Charles with special guest Christian Scott. Mid performances were briefly interrupted by rain showers, but that did not deter the fans. People sought refuge under covered tents, while the artists mingled and had fun with photo ops in the green room. Panamanian pianist Danilo Perez closed the evening with an after party at Quartier Latin restaurant, where parts of the patio was subjected to the rain, but the packed house enjoyed their dinner as the band continued without missing a beat . 10| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Festival
By: Lisa Summers Photo By: Craig Mathew Mr. Roy Ayers graced the stage at the driver, a scrap metal worker who played 39th annual Playboy Jazz Festival in Los trombone in his free time. Roy’s mother, Angeles, California as special guest cele- a schoolteacher and piano instructor. brating Bobby Hutcherson, Stefon Har- She began teaching Roy how to play the ris, Musical Director with special guests piano at the age of 6. Roy grew up near Warren Wolf. the Central Avenue scene which was Roy Ayers, jazz, funk and soul musician where most of the West Coast Jazz was and composer, and vibraphonist was born. He received his first set of vibraborn September 10, 1940, raised in the phone mallets by bandleader Lionel South Los Angeles, California. He has Hampton. By the age of 17 he met vibrabeen playing his diverse musical styling, phonist Bobby Hutcherson started to professionally for well over 50 years, as study the vibraphone. His career started a post- bop musician. Roy Ayers dubbed his career at 22 years of age and subse“The God Father of Neo-Soul by Erykah quently released his first album entitled Badu is the product of a musical family. West Coast Vibes. By the 60s, Roy was He is also a large contributor to jazz funk recording his own albums. He has workand acid funk. He is the son of a bus Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 11
Festivals bums and singles into the late 80s. Later, one of his best recordings to date is called, “In The Dark” was released on Columbia Records. Those in the music world would have to agree that his brilliance has impacted all genres of music in some shape or form, even hip hop. ed with notables such Herbie Mann, The Erykah Badu and Eric Benét reGerald Wilson Orchestra and many oth- established his own record label under ers where he released numerous recthe name AFI CDs. He has been canonords on United Artists Records. He was ized by the hip hop crowd at the “Icon also featured on Herbie Mann’s hit, Man.” Memphis Underground. He has recordAt 77, he is still going strong. His passion ed for Atlantic and others over his career. In 1970, Ayers moved to New York and energy grabs you and doesn’t let you go. I got a chance to meet up with and formed Roy Ayers Ubiquity. This him after his performance at the festimove established him as a jazz fusion artist and he released numerous records val. What do you ask a man who has everything and has experienced almost on Polydor Records. The hits started rolling in like “We Live In Brooklyn” and everything imaginable? This is the way we kick off his interview. Enjoy….. “Everybody Loves Sunshine”. In the 1980s, besides leading his bands and reSJM: Over the years you have broken cording, Ayers collaborated with Nigerirecords, merged genres, become iconic an musician Fela Kuti, formed Uno Meand loved by audiences as diverse as lodic Records, and produced and/or cothey come. What is it that you experiwrote several recordings for various ence in your career that you never artists. Ayers dropped the Ubiquity thought would happen that brings you group name in 1978 and continued to the most joy and excitement? have chart success with both his solo al12| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Festivals the most joy and excitement?
Roy: (Laughing) I’m serious! It’s the next gig! I say, oh, am I playing there. Okay! Thank you!
Roy: You are asking me a question like that? Well, it has to be traveling all over the world in places that I never thought SJM: How often do you gig per year? I would be able to perform. Roy: I used to gig all the time. But, now I SJM: Is there one place that stands out don’t gig all the time. I play for special above all the rest? rooms and that’s wonderful. Great rooms all over the world. It’s wonderful. Roy: Yes, this place. Playing music all over the world. I take something positive where it might be SJM: Why this place? negative. That’s what makes it wonderful. Roy: It generates good energy. It's crowded! It’s a packed house. That’s wonderful. I heard some people say, “Who’s that?’ And someone else said, Roy Ayers and you know that’s just wonderful. SJM: You have had such a phenomenal career. More than 50 great years in the business doing what you like with whom you like, where you like. Where do you go from here? Is there some place that you want to go that you haven’t gone yet or something you want to do that you haven’t done yet? Roy: I’m going to the next gig! SJM: Stop it, (laughing) Come on, the next gig!
SJM: What keeps you creative? What keeps you going? Roy: Music keeps me, keeps me going. Keeps me doing everything else! SJM: What about today’s jazz, do you like the new direction? Do you have any favorites? Any collaborations? Roy: I like what Fela Kuti. SJM: (Now, for our readers, if you are not familiar with this artist. His name is Fela Ransome Kuti. He’s from Lagos Nigeria. His style of music is Afrobeathighlife. He played saxophone, keyboards, trumpet, guitar, and drums. He was also a vocalist. He has a website: felabration.net. He passed August 2,
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Festivals 1997. Why is this information important you might ask? Roy Ayers divulged a special secret to our readers that he hasn’t told anyone else. Keep reading…..) Roy: Well, I am going to give you some special information! SJM: You know my readers and I will love that. We like feeling special! LOL
mation that you would like for me to tell them about you? Roy: Please tell them that I am very, very happy! I love the sound of the vibes. I love to see how it makes other people happy and I have lived with the sound of the vibes for a long time. To all of these new young musicians, keep it straight. Keep it clean. Keep it positive and keep it going!
Roy: Ok,
Roy Ayers is a living legend with a good heart, a positive spirit and a creative SJM: Does this special secret have to do mind that won’t be stopping anytime with a collaboration of some sort? soon. He performs with limitless energy and conviction. He is still as convincing Roy: Yes, with Fela Kuti. today as he has ever been. Run out and SJM: Ok, you’ve got my attention. Did- buy some tickets to see him, if he comes to n’t he pass away? your city! Roy: Yes, Fela Kuti passed away. But, You don’t get I’ve got some fantastic stuff on him and a chance to I. And we were fantastic together. We see a living were always wonderful, he and I. legend like this perform SJM: (So, that’s it! Roy is putting togeth- every day. er a collaborative release with unreThank you, leased music from him and Fela Kuti Roy Ayers, that should be amazing and you heard for your muit here first.) sic, your heart, and SJM: Roy, what do you want to leave your spirit. our readers with. Is there any infor14| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Corinne Bailey Rae & Arturo Sandoval
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Festivals
Marcus Miller and Rahsaan Patterson
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Festival - Haiti the Sights & Sounds
By: Lisa Summers
RAHSAAN PATTERSON I caught up with Rashaan Patterson, the man, the artist, the vocalist who has transformed from “The Kid” from Kids Incorporated, as a young 10 year old in the 80’s to a member of “SugaRush Beat Company”, from 2005 - 2009, to the man with the golden voice performing live at the 2017 Playboy Jazz Festival last month. Rashaan contributes his voice to being a collaboration between being a gift from God and coming from a talented family of musicians and singers. He was never pressured by his family to sing. He started singing in church at 6 and became a professional, a child star by the age of 10. Surrounded by talented family members, he gravitated towards a career in music. It didn’t take much time for others to see that he wasn’t one that would remain in the choir at church for long. What I instantly noticed upon meeting Rashaan is that he is different from most young male entertainers. His style is somewhat modest and unique. He’s grounded, very spiritual and surrounds himself with the best of the best vocalists in the business. You will not see Mr. Patterson just hanging out in public just to be hanging out anywhere. He is a man on a mission. If he is not collaborating with other artists on their projects, working on his solo project or creating, writing, producing in the studio for others, he is spending quality time with family and a very select group of friends. Otherwise, he keeps to himself. Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 17
Festivals ly and a very select group of friends. Otherwise, he keeps to himself. Rashaan’s vocal styling combines different genres of music. He is not an artist that you can put in a box. He has worked with artists in R’n B, Jazz, Blues, Pop and Country. He never tried to merge the different genres to be different. Those styles just came out in his delivery and writing. His vocal coach as a young child was Seth Riggs who also Michael Jackson’s vocal coach. During the interview Rahsaan told me that some of his favorite artists who are also his friends are Chaka Khan, Lalah Hathway, Rachelle Ferrell and some actor friends that he grew up with. Rahsaan said he became a fan and star struck when he first met Chaka Khan but because she is so humble and so extremely talented now its more like to close friends hanging out.
than being a solo artist but he did enjoy it. Rashaan shared, “I hadn’t done anything like that since I was In 2015, he performed in a musical entitled, a teenager and I had to get accliJohn Dolphin where he played the crony Leon mated again. I had to remember I Washington, where a review by Stagecenela had to play someone. It took a mistates, “dynamic Rahsaan Patterson as Los Annute.” geles Sentinel founding publisher Leon Washington. He played John Dolphin’s best friend I would like to do more on the little who had a record company in Los Angeles screen, the big screen, and stage. I even before Motown was born in Detroit. He still enjoy all of that. But, I am in shared that it was different playing a character 18| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Festivals need of moving further into different types of creativity like photography, directing, with a musical perspective.
tivity works. He cultivates his CD from titles that just come to him. I got the inspiration for the song while working on the previous CD entitled, “God.” With Currently, Rashaan is completing his up- every album, the last song sets up the coming CD entitled “Heroes and Gods.” next album and where its going. My heHe stated during the interview that the roes are my deceased grandparents and title was given to him before he had my friends. even written the song. Now, that the song is complete and he is finishing up SJM: Rahsaan what advice do you have the rest of the songs for the CD. He col- for up and coming actors and singers? laborated with Trina Brussard, LaToya Williams from the Snoop Dog camp, and Rashaan: I have always known who I am wrote songs with Joy Gilliam and and it’s important going into this busiRachelle Ferrell. The first single from this ness. I was always clear about my vision magnificent CD will probably drop in the for myself, as an artist and I never left next few months and the CD will be out room for anyone to come in and take in the fall on the Mack Avenue label. me in a different direction. One that I The deal he made with the label defiwasn’t willing to go to. Many sales want nitely shows his business side. He is also to mold you into something or pattern an avid social media participant. If you you after someone else. I just never go to his page it says he will respond gave into that. I would think that would within 24 hours. I think you will see, be the best way for new artists to get Rashaan is just an easy going, down to lost, lose faith and hope when everyearth extraordinary vocalist from this in- thing changes before them and they terview. So, let’s get started. have lost control. SJM: Rashaan, I know you are working on your new CD, Heroes and Gods. Where did the title Heroes and Gods come from?
SJM: What keeps you grounded?
Rashaan: What keeps me grounded is my family! They are the most important thing to me. This business is all wonderRashaan: The title has been with me for ful; and great and everything but I get some time. That is just the way my creaLet the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 19
Festivals joy and security knowing that my family is there and I am a product of them and that if all of this went away, I would have a room somewhere in the Bronx or in Harlem or Nebraska, wherever my family is I know there is a safe place for me. SJM: What goals do you have outside of the music? When the music stops, do you have any other dreams or goals you want to accomplish? Rashaan: I do contribute to causes that are important to me. Like organizations that help abused people. Keep an eye out for Mr. Rahsaan Patterson who is a man of many talents. There will be a tour upon the release of his new CD. We at Smooth Jazz believe that neither the CD or the tour will disappoint. 20| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Festivals
Hot Days, Cool Nights…
An Ever-Revolving Stage of Exceptional Talent
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The 2017 Playboy Jazz Festival
The 39th annual Playboy Jazz Festival was an eclectic assemblage of instrumentalist and vocalist with universal appeal. A very relaxed and kicked back, George Lopez savored every moment, as he introduced each new act coming onto the stage, as the master of ceremonies for this year’s event. The weather was perfect. The bright sunny day, as well as, the darkness of the night and the shimmering stars made for an absolutely wonderful backdrop, as each entertainer took to the revolving stage. The audience made its presence known up in the stands by purchasing multicolored electrical bunny ears that illuminated the crowd. “Eat, drink and enjoy the music” would accurately describe the mood of the 15,000 capacity crowd. Everyone seemed to enjoy every performance from the early afternoon until late into the evening as both days were jam packed with star-studded performances.
The first night consisted of the following acts: CSULB Pacific Standard Time Vocal Jazz Ensemble, The Django Festival Allstars, The California Honeydrops, Celebrating Bobby Hutcherson; Stefon Harris Musical Director with special guests Roy Ayers and Warren Wolf., TajMo: The Taj Mahal and Keb' Mo' Band. Hudson featuring Jack DeJohnette, Larry Grenadier, John Medeski, John Scofield. Corinne Bailey Rae, Jacob Collier, Arturo Sandoval Latin Big Band with a special guest on Congo’s actor Andy Garcia. Day one closed with many in the crowd standing and dancing to bassist Marcus Miller and special guest vocalist Rahsaan Patterson until the very end.
June 11th, better known as day two opened with The LAUSD/Beyond the Bell All-City Jazz Big Band and continued with Hamilton de Holanda Trio, The DIVA Jazz Orchestra, Carl Allen & the Art of Elvin, Cory Henry & The Funk Apostles, Kenny Garrett Quintet with the JazzAntiqua Dance Ensemble, Gregory Porter, Miles Mosley & the West Coast Get Down, Lalah Hathaway and Common closed out the final day of the festival. This unique mix of big band, rap, quintet, dance ensemble and fine jazz was appreciated by all. The crowd was just as diverse as the performers who took the stage.
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Festivals I have to give special mention to Lalah Hathaway. Her performance that night with her large band and female DJ mesmerized the crowd. Of course, we are all familiar with her famous father, Donny Hathaway. Lalah has taken the baton from her father and hasn’t stopped running yet. Her unique vocal styling and unmistakable tone and sound are responsible for the standing ovation she received late Sunday night at the Bowl. Beautiful, stunning on stage and a voice like an angel. She took the stage and performed some of her most notable original songs: “Somethin,’ “Shine,” “If You Want To,” “Mirror,” as well as covers “Angel,” “Forever, For Always, For Love”). Lalah Hathaway is like a bottle of good wine that just gets better with time as her standing ovations were well deserved. This year’s festival, like its predecessors, embraced all types of music and even dance from Latin Big Bands to college vocal ensembles to the Blues, to Pop artists to Jazz greats, to vibraphonists to bass slapping musician with a tribute to Mr. Al Jarreau. All of the performances were exceptional. June gloom had no effect on the Hollywood Bowl’s performers or spectators. The weather was in perfect harmony with the event from beginning to end, as well. There were no casualties or odd moments. This year’s Playboy Jazz Festival will be remembered for outstanding entertainment, electrical bunny ears, good food and drink and friendly crowd.
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PhotosBy: Photos By: Eleanor EleanorPreger Preger
Marcus Miller
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Candy Dulfer
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Eric Marienthal
Candy Dulfer
Brian and Chance Howard
Paul Jackson Jr. Let the music take you‌ SmoothJazz Magazine | 27
Festivals Brian and Eric Darius
Marqueal Jordan, Chase Huna and Brian
Eric Darius and Brian
Private Party with Eric Marienthal 28| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Jazz and Wine enthusiast Priscilla Myers
Chance Howard
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Festivals
Photos By: Gabriel Mijares
Clcokwise: HAPPY BIRTHDAY!! Michael Paulo, Jeff Kashiwa, Kay-Ta Matsuno and singing sensation from The Voice, Anatalia Villaranda Let the music take you‌ SmoothJazz Magazine | 31
Festivals Jeff Kashiwa
Wakana Inamura
Tateng Katindig
Rene Paulo
Michael Paulo 32| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Festivals
Photos By: Candice Dixon
On this Memorial Day Weekend, A BIG SALUTE to all our fallen HEROES for preserving our FREEDOMS through the ultimate sacrifice. Chase Huna opened up the event L to R: Paul Jack- with the National Anthem. Then the seventeen-year-old high school senson Jr., Greg Adams, Keiko Matsui, ior provided an opening show warm up for The 29th Annual KSBR Birthday Slim Man, Paul Bash held this year at a new venBrown, Jessy J while Smooth Jazz ue The Grove in Anaheim which had Fans Liz and Belin- a packed house as Smooth Jazz Lovers were entertained indoors. da enjoyed the event. Chatting with early arrivals like Grammy and Emmy Nominated Trumpeter, Arranger Greg Adams, who mentioned that he is going into the studio to 34 | SmoothJazz Magazine
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Greg Adams
produce two new CDs. One a Christmas CD, as he is always being asked after his live renditions of Christmas songs can they be purchased. He jokingly laughed, I haven't made a Christmas CD, so I will have one soon. The other CD will be with his group East Bay Soul. You can be apart of either CD as Greg has a new Kickstarter Campaign for "Sweet Soul Christmas" and "Soul Citizen" which just launched May 22nd.
Having a brief moment with Jim Rondeau, General Manager Director of Broadcasting at KSBR 88 5FM he discussed why the change of venue as a lot of people loved the outdoor festive location in Mission Viejo, CA. As the change was due to unforeseen changes where it was a decision to either move location or not have the event at all this year. Over the years the festival has moved 5 times, so it will take a little getting use to for some, but those who attended today like Liz and Belinda, they had a great time. Behind the scene Jim credited one person who worked her magic, KSBR Music Director Vienna Yip provided an excellent line up "without her this would Vienna Yip with Vienna Yip with not have happened in getting all these Saxophonist Jackiem Keyboardist Brian Joyner talented artists." Simpson Other artists set to release new music or going into the studio are pianist David Benoit while saxophonists Jackiem Joyner which is due to be released in June 2017 and Jessy J, who is starting to work on a new CD with a Brazilian flair. Let the music take you‌ SmoothJazz Magazine | 35
Festivals The Bash had two new renowned musicians to grace the stage this year were Grammy nominated Guitarist Paul Jackson Jr., and Pianist Phillipe Saisse. Paul Jackson Jr. Also, a newcomer to the KSBR Bash in the audience was the legendary icon in stage, TV and film Renn Woods best known for being in the Emmy-winning TV show "Roots." Renn also a remarkable jazz singer is working on a new CD. Along with Master BBQ Chef Big Dev of Big Dev's Down-Home Barbeque and Catering Services. You will find his big rig at major music festi- Phillipe Saisse vals and rodeo's in southern California. The 4-hour jam session ended with Bassist and Vocals Slim Man leading the all-star artists, with the last song gospelinspired "Take Me To The River," written by Al Green, as Music Director Tony Guerrero stopped Slim Man and had a friend in Slim Man the audience come on stage as she gave a resounding choir lead vocals that blew the top off the indoor venue as Bill Cantos hit some hi soprano notes, it was amazing to hear. Bill Cantos/Alva Copeland
Paul Brown Greg Vail Doc Powell 36| SmoothJazz Magazine Let the music take you‌
Big Dev & Renn Woods
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FESTIVAL GUIDE JULY 2017
Los Angles, CA 38 | SmoothJazz Magazine
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FESTIVAL GUIDE AUG 2017
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Lifestyle
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Lifestyle An exciting, new modern ballet company, Futorian Dance Theatre, featured two works at the Harlem Arts Festival, June 25th, 2017 held at the Marcus Garvey Park Amphitheatre @ 124th and 5th New York. “Fall Up, Get Back Down,” choreographed by director Melanie Futorian was a breathtaking, passionate piece superbly performed by dancers Dandara Amorim Veiga and Leonardo Brito. who seemingly defied gravity. The second performance “Core” by Danilo Silvestre- who performed in his own piece with Mr. Brito and Ms. Veiga was Daredevil fresh and dynamic.
By: SJM Correspondent
Melanie Futorian
The dancers executed powerful and unexpected movements in both pieces with energy, spirit and elegance. Keep your eyes out for these exquisite artists. Photos By: Albin Lohr-Jones
“Fall Up, Get Back Down.”
“Core”
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Lifestyle Danilo Silvestre Leonardo Brito
Dandara and Leonardo studied as scholarship students at Alvin Ailey American Dance Center. They are from Brazil. Also from Brazil Danilo studied with Bolshoi Ballet.
Dandara Veiga
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Remembering Geri Allen June 12, 1957 June 27, 2017
Allen contributed some of the most groundbreaking and forward thinking music of the time. The remarkable pianist leaves behind a wealth of material that will educate future generations of musicians. A mother of three, she credited her family for making it possible for her to maintain such a successful and fruitful career. She was a cutting edge performing artist, and continued to entertain internationally up until her death.
Lloyd, Marcus Belgrave, Jason Moran, Lizz Wright, Vijay Iyer, Paul Motian, Terri Lynn Carrington, Esperanza Spalding, Hal Willner, Dianne Reeves, Joe Lovano, AngĂŠlique Kidjo, Mary Wilson and The Supremes, Howard University's Afro-Blue and many others..
Geri Allen died on Tuesday, June 27, 2017 from complications of cancer in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. She had recently celebrated her 60th birthday.
"The jazz community will never be the same with the loss of one of our geniuses, Geri Allen. Her virtuosity and musicality are unparalleled," expressed Carrington upon learning of her passing. "I will miss my sister and friend, but I am thankful for all of the music she made and all of the incredible experiences we had together for over 35 In a career that spanned more than 35 years. She is a true original -- a one of years, she recorded, performed and col- kind -- never to be forgotten. My heart laborated with some of the most immourns, but my spirit is filled with the portant artists of our time including Ra- gift of having known and learned from vi Coltrane, George, Redman, Charles Geri Allen." Let the music take you‌ SmoothJazz Magazine | 45
Remembering She was the first woman and youngest person to receive the Danish Jazz Par Prize, and was the first recipient of the Soul Train Lady of Soul Award for Jazz. In 2011, she was nominated for an NAACP Award for Timeline, her Tap Quartet project. Over the last few years, Allen served as the program director of NJPAC's All-Female Jazz Residency, which offered a weeklong one-of-akind opportunity for young women, ages 14-25, to study jazz. Having grown up in Detroit, a region known for its rich musical history, Allen's affinity for jazz stemmed from her father's passion for the music. She began taking lessons at 7-years-old, and started her early music education under the mentorship of trumpeter Marcus Belgrave at the Cass Technical High School. In 1979, she was one of the first to graduate from Howard University with a Bachelor of Arts degree in jazz studies. It was there that she began to embrace music from all cultures that would ultimately influence her work. During that time, she studied with the great Kenny Barron in New York City. Allen was recently honored to be one of the producers of the expanded and remastered recording of Erroll Garner's The Complete Concert by the Sea, which garnered her an Essence Image Award nomination as well as a GRAMMY® Awardnomination in 2016. Hailed as one of the most accomplished pianists and educators of her time, Allen's most recent position was as Director of Jazz Studies at the University of Pittsburgh. She was especially proud of performing with renowned pianist McCoy Tyner for the last two years, and was also part of two recent groundbreaking trios: ACS (Geri Allen, Terri Lyne Carrington, and Esperanza Spalding) and the MAC Power Trio with David Murray and Carrington -- their debut recording Perfection was released on Motéma Music in 2016 to critical acclaim. 46| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Concerts
Photos By: Darnell Wade
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Concerts
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Photos By: Melanie Futorian
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Smooth Jazz
Magazine
Concerts Philadelphia, PA
By: Ron Hancox
Photos By: Ron Hancox
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Concert
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Concerts
Photos By: Tina Pruitt
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The Grover Washington, Jr. Reunion Concert Tuesday, July 18th, 7:30 PM
Featuring Gerald Albright, Najee, and Jean Carn Temple University Performing Arts Center
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Feature vocalist Maysa. She adds her special blended signature vocals combined with her smooth, Jazz and R&B vocals that only she can deliver with ease. Maysa takes each one of the songs on the cd and make it her own, with her rare talent, she definitely does not disappoint. “Love Is A Battlefield,” is her third cd of covers. And, this one has got to be the best ever! Songs especially selected by her for her is so on spot. However, she Interview By: Carolyn Beverly is planning to record an original cd sometime soon spotlighting her songrammy Nominated Jazz and R&B writing talent. There are ten tracks of artist Maysa new cd titled “Love Is A some of the best covers ever recorded Battlefield” which was released, May on “Love Is A Battlefield.” Maysa has 26th, exactly 2 years from her critically acclaimed “Back 2 Love” CD, has been recreated an incredible cd that is sure on the top of the Billboard Contempoto bring back those unbelievable rary Jazz Chats for 2 weeks. Even before sounds of yesterday holding fast to units release the cd has been getting outforgettable memories that is sure to last standing reviews which is a true testiforever. mony of Maysa’s uniqueness and true Love Is A Battlefield, is a Pat Benatar’s God given talent. Love Is A Battlefield, is a cd of covers se- remake and chosen for its lyrical conlected by the Soul Train Awards winning tent about the power of love and faith Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 59
Feature something that seems to be missing in this day and time with so many unfavorable distractions. Listen to the lyrics in Love Is A Battlefield, there are some powerful lyrics positive, and uplifting. Other tracks on the cd include “Can We Talk,” hit recorded by Tevin Campbell. ”Inside Out” definitely a dance floor track. Maysa gives Natalie Cole’s hit “Inseparable” a new meaning of newness featuring Carl Cox on saxophone. Inseparable approximately recorded over 40 years ago. Maysa, gives us that zoom factor as she takes on the Isley Brother hit, “Footsteps in The Dark.” personal favorite of mine is definitely “Mr. Dream Merchant” a New Birth 60s hit and Atlantic Starr’s “I’m I Dreaming.” In one of those rare moments, I caught up with Grammy Nominated artist. We discussed the release of her new cd titled “Love Is A Battlefield.” Her talent strength far beyond her birth place where she was born and raised, Baltimore, MD. Maysa’s talent has many sided and plays many different roles in her life. She is currently celebrating twenty-six years of being self-managed. She has managed to keep her name out there and on any given Sunday you can catch Maysa LIVE on Facebook taking request and sharing her God given talent with her fans from all over coming to hear Maysa sing on what she calls karaoke Sunday’s. When asked Maysa about the selections on “Love Is A Battlefield.” She added, ”The songs selected were all songs that I like and or have heard on the radio and said I 60| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Feature would like to record someday, adding plus I needed more karaoke songs to sing on Sunday’s.” Maysa says Karaoke Sundays is all about keeping her name out there as well as allowing her fans to see and hear her who would perhaps not have a chance to. In less than thirty minutes there are over 200 fans listening and requesting songs from her list of songs. I also asked Maysa about the name of the cd “Love Is A Battlefield.” Maysa says that she chose the name of the cd “Love Is A Battlefield,” for its strong lyrical content. There are so many things going on in the country, adding “Love is fighting to win.”
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New CD Releases 2017
Julian Vaughn "Bona Fide" 06/30/17 BUY
Mattias Roos "Movin' Up" 06/12/17 BUY
Robert Cray & Hi Rhythm "Robert Cray & Hi Rhythm" 04/28/17 BUY
RL Stokes "Road Trip" 06/17/17 BUY
Rossella Cosentino "BÃ ia" 06/16/17 BUY
Peggy Duquesnel "Love Skies (Piano Orchestrations) 06/02/17 BUY
Regina Carter "Ella Accentuate the Positive" 04/28/17 BUY
Andre Cavor "Road Trip" 04/18/17 BUY
Billy Porter Presents: "The Soul of Richard Rodgers" 04/14/17 BUY
CD Review By: Keivu G. Knox
40 years after releasing his debut album, Jeff Lorber is back to prove that he is still one of the most innovative and inspiring musicians and artists in the music industry. On “Prototype,” not only is Lorber, and his band, Jeff Lorber Fusion raising the bar, but a “who’s who” of guests are stepping up to the challenge. The result, from such a group of high caliber artists, is an album that should easily and quickly become of the greatest albums release this year. Things get off to a very hot start with “Hyperdrive,” a pulsing and high octane groove that features Nathan East on bass, and Paul Jackson Jr. & Chuck Loeb in guitar. Its always interesting to hear the album’s opening song because it can set the tone for the rest of the album, and Hyperdrive gets your ears involved. It is followed by the title track, which may slow the tempo, but not the groove. Andy Snitzer on alto sax does a great job of driving the melody, along with Lorber on keys. Next up is “Test Drive,” which finds Lorber not only providing his familiar work on keys, but he’s flexing his chops on the synth bass and guitar. It’s a fun piece of jazz with a sprinkle of pop and rock undertones. The greatness continues through the rest of the album. On “What’s the Deal,” Gary Novak is laying down a killer drum track that showcases Lorber delivering a memorable performance on the B3 organ, a great horn arrangement by Dave Mann, and results in an infectious throwback jam. “Hidden Agenda,” perhaps my favorite track from this album, again focuses on Lorber and Snitzer sharing a lovely melody. It’s an R&B/jazz/soul cross-section 64 | SmoothJazz Magazine
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that works very well and should be on a few summer playlists this year. The album’s closing song is a wondrous expression of jazz and Gospel. While it’s a slight departure from the rest of the album, it closes the album in a strong way. After patting your feet, moving your body and jamming to the previous 9 songs, “River Song” allows you to relax, listen and take a breather. The added string and orchestral arrangement give, even more, warmth to the song. Simply put, Jeff Lorber delivered one of best albums of 2017 to date. The guests on the album do not negate the creativity and ability that has made Lorber one of the most recognizable and popular keyboardists in music. It is no small feat to have the ability, year in and year out to create and captivate, influence and impact. When considering past accomplishments after listening to this album the title fits perfectly, as Lorber and his band truly are the Prototype.
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CD Review By: Keivu G. Knox
Tom Coppola may not be a household name in jazz circles, but this music veteran has been associated with a true AList of musicians. He’s been involved with artists ranging from CHIC to Peggy Lee to Paul Simon to Marvin Gaye. For me, Coppola will be known for providing a favorite song from my childhood, as he partnered with Googie, on “Joyous Flame,” a Detroit radio staple in the 1980s. After teaching music and also working on Saturday Night Live, Coppola is back with his self-produced jazz project, entitled "Island Dreams." This album is for all intents and purposes a one-man show. All ten tracks were written by Coppola and except for Googie appearing on two tracks and two musicians appearing on another track; Coppola handles all of the instrumentation and music. At some points, it makes you wonder how some of the songs would sound with a full band, Coppola is effective and making sure the listener captures the vibe that the album’s title represents. The project starts with “Beach Bird,” which has a Brazilian vibe punctuated by a great melody on keys. “Jackalantan” is another key’s driven song that features Googie on vocals that has a nice R&B/jazz blend. Coppola’s sense for melody is another alluring factor on this album. “Blue Dawn” benefits from keys and percussion over a slightly haunting, but engaging melody. My favorite e song from the album, “Moko Jumbie”, has a solid Latin influence over a jazz tune that features Lou Volpe on guitar and Johnny Almendra on percussion. Let | 47 Magazine | 67 Letthe themusic musictake takeyou… you…Magazine SmoothJazz
This could easily be a radio hit on smooth jazz formats. “Loop Garou,” is a nice mid-tempo cut that has a distinct Steely Dan influence in its arrangement and production. With this album, Tom Coppola is showing that he is willing to continue to push the envelope of what he’s already done. By handling virtually every turn “Island Dreams,” he carefully crafts a concept album that listeners will want to use as the soundtrack for their own island getaway. www.http://tomcoppolajazz.com/
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CD Review Hold on to your seats ladies and gents, and take a Musical ride with Robert Miller: Project Grand Slam. The PGS Experience is the band’s 5th CD and is a combination of five new studio tracks and four live performances. Renowned Saxophonist and two-time Grammy Nominee Mindi Abair is featured on two tracks of the album. Project Grand Slam fuses Jazz, Rock, Funk, Latin, and revived Classic Rock covers. Let’s dive in! The first single released from the CD is “Free” a refreshed cover to the original song previously released by the group “Phish”- maintaining the Classic Rock feel with its screaming electric guitar solo, yet incorporating smooth lines with sax and vocals. The followBy: Maria L. Lewis ing track titled “Fishin” features Mindi Abair on Sax – taking you to the islands with its laid back, life is good feel! The track “Gorilla” is where Classic Rock meets Jazz. It is performed live, and has a fiery electric guitar solo that will have you saying YES from the depths of your soul! “You Really Got Me” is another cover tastefully done to the Rock classic done by the “Kinks” with its sultry vocals by Cheryl Washington, electrifying guitar parts, and sax. The CD ends with the track titled “Fire.” – an arrangement that teeters between Rock and Funk, and a touch of Jimi Hendrix throughout. 70 | SmoothJazz Magazine
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CD Review About the new CD, acclaimed bassist/composer Robert Miller says; “I feel like the PGS Experience captures the band better and more fully than any of our previous albums.” The album undoubtedly exudes nostalgia and excitement. Be on the lookout for this upcoming CD and release scheduled for June 30th, 2017!
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CD Review
Pieces of A Dream has By: Ahlia Love created a signature sound which unmistakably let’s you who you are listening to without seeing the track information on your car radio or home CD player screen. That in itself is an incredible feat when you have to create something new and exciting for every project. That is called true creativity which this group seems to have in unlimited supply.
added to my playlist.
Track 4: Sensuosity – light on the funk but heavy on the Sensuosity. With James Lloyd tickling the ivories ever so Track 1: Right back Atcha’ –Upbeat, delicately this one can’t miss. I would funky and flavorful. If you are having a consider this the off the beaten path dinner party this is a must have track track. It’s nice song for the Ipod to share that goes well when paired with your with someone special as you take a favorite wine and exotic appetizers. I moonlight walk in the park. Make sure don’t think your host will be offended if that you have a headphone splitter and you bob your head to this while sitting two pairs of headphones so that you at the table. can walk hand in hand without getting Track 3: Shaken Not Stirred – heavy on tangled in the wires. So far it’s my favorthe horns with light infusions of every- ite selection on this project. thing else. The presence of the rock gui- Track 5: Fast Lane- I imagine hearing this tar gives this track added dimension. track used during Fashion week as modThis is definitely funky and will also be els present the latest designer creations
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they sashay down the runway. It’s high energy without being over the top. Track 7: No Doubt –This song is just what you need to help cool you down but not so much that you drift off to sleep. It’s laid back without loosing the energy or funkiness found in the other songs on the CD. I like everything about this track. True smoothed out funk. Track 10: Manhattan - I truly enjoyed listening to the diverse energies within this track. I’m not sure whether the band was inspired by the City of Manhattan or the drink but whatever the motivation I must add this track to my “Road Music” playlist, Ok, maybe this is my favorite track on the project. It’s a toss up. Overall the single theme for me with this project is consistency. Each track gives you a slightly different feel or energy but the same thing rings true for me with each song. It’s classic Pieces of a Dream. After 40 years and being pioneers of the smooth jazz genre I’d expect nothing less. Music may be just a job for some artists where there’s little to no enjoyment as a reward. However, you can hear the love they have for music and performance. It’s evident that Pieces of A Dream ain’t “Just Funkin’ Around.”
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CD Review By: Keivu G. Knox
When artists release a live album, there is a certain element of risk attached. Will the performance meet or exceed expectations? Will it sound right? Can the vibe of the performance be captured? In the case of Tracey Whitney’s “Live at the Outpost Performance Space,” (a New Mexico Music Awards nominee for Best Vocal Performance) the answer to all of these questions is a resounding yes! Whitney comes from a musical family and spent time as a Raelette (one of the late great Ray Charles background singers). Having such experiences allows her to command the stage and shows her comfort and versatility. Her version of “Nature Boy,” has a bossa-nova blend that gives the listener a chance to truly focus on her rich vocal performance. The same can be said on “Speak Low,” which is one of my favorites from the album. Paul Gonzalez’ trumpet solo adds a further dimension to such a lovely melody. The trademark of a great live album is the artist’s ability to make the audience, whether in person or listening, feel as if they are part of the album. Whitney’s exchange with the audience and overall performance does just that. On the smoky Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 75
CD Review “Baby, Baby All The Time,” it is easy to imagine being in the front row, taking every nuance in. From Whitney’s interplay with the band and audience to giving each member of the band a chance to showcase their chops, there is a shared musical experience that makes every second of this song matter. While the majority of the album is firmly rooted in jazz, Whitney is not afraid of shifting gears, yet keeping the audience involved. She brings on Zenobia as they take on Justin Timberlake’s “Drink You Away.” Which is a blues/country romp that delivers one of the most memorable and powerful vocal performances on the album. It is great to hear artists going beyond their comfort zone and give their fans and listeners a glimpse into their musical life. Tracey Whitney on this album was able to do just that, without sacrificing any of the ability that has made her a respected name in the industry. Anyone who listens to “Live At The Outpost performance Space” will have nothing but that same respect for her, and it is well deserved.
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CD Review No doubt one of the best guitarists in the Smooth Jazz realm today and for over twenty years, this Grammy winning musician just debut his first solo album in five years and his tenth solo By: Kimberly Sara Ramkhalawan album, I’m talking about none other than Norman Brown and his latest 11 –track album titled “Let It Go”. It’s a spiritual journey for this artist who describes it as a ‘spiritual exposition’ and soars with opening Track ‘Lessons of the Spirit’ which sets the tone for the album, offering a smooth transition into track number two ‘It Keeps Coming back’, the message “If we don’t learn and live by the Laws of the Spirit (Truth) then the myriad of problems that we face in our lives will return. It’s not a choice.” The album features the likes of Marion Meadows, Chante Moore, his daughters’ band S.O.U.L (Sisters of Unbreakable Love), and also includes his second take on Michael Jackson’s “Man in the Mirror,” this time without his BWB brothers, instead Sounds of Blackness lending some church choir vibes to the track. However, the BWB guys are not far away as the second B from the band, Rick Braun and Kirk Whalum
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team back up for Track 10, ‘Liberated.” The freedom can be felt when the guys let lose for a quick moment with an injection of some Miami Latin party flavour in the middle of it. Brown seems to experiment a lot more with this album in terms of his vocals especially in his duet with Chante Moore in Track seven, ‘Holding you’, his voice a contrast to hers, I’d let you be the judge of that though when you take a listen. ‘Very Woman’ also features his vocals, but as a sultry background chorus, a complement to a song perfect for those candle night slow dance sways for two. His cover of the classic Five Stairsteps’ ‘Ooh Child’, at the start puts me on the lookout for two late greats, Joe Sample and Al Jarreau but in fact features Traycar. ‘Conversations’ nurtures the spiritual aspect of the album, with S.O.U.L echoing what he says “are the two voices we all have within us; our true self, conscious and spirit, verses the animal part of our spirit”. North Star, his collab with Sax man Marion Meadows is beautiful, ideal as a headliner to any upcoming smooth jazz festival. Now title track ‘Let It Go’ evokes just that, let’s say it’s the soundtrack to those quiet reflective moments you have while alone, that carries your thoughts far off and brings you back with muchneeded clarity. I think Brown is one of the few artists that strikes balance with smooth jazz, funk and RnB and he does just that with every track in this ‘Let It Go’ album, giving the listener something new to look forward to. Each track takes you somewhere different, making it the magic that smooth jazz is to all of its fans, giving you that ‘Let it Go’ moment we all need. 78 | SmoothJazz Magazine
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and improvisational makeover that only Billy can among the other offerings to savour. This album may not be your average Joe’s cup of tea but for the connoisseur this is an absolute joy to listen to and to literally take in and absorb. The kind of album you will be listening to for a long time to come. A must have in any true music lover’s collection and one that is going to be spinning on the repeat button at home and in my car for at least the next month....YES it really is that good!
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CD Review By: Kievu G. Knox
After many years as a band leader, session player and music teacher, Roberto Tola finally releases his first album as a solo artist, entitled “Bein’ Green.” For some musicians, releasing an album could cause pressure and stress, which can ultimately show in the finished product. This is not the case for Tola, as each Photos By: David Johnson of the 9 tracks on this album displays a cool and calm that helps create the perfect melodic soundscape. The album’s opening track, “Tears for Niro,” is a breezy number that features Bill McGee on horns. Tola’s guitar compliments McGee very well and sets us up for a musical journey that lasts for the entire album. “Flying Away” is the next track, and it features Yellowjackets member Bob Mintzer on sax. This is another song that displays Tola’s ability to arrange everything in its proper place to create a wonderful melody. “Sardinia Dream” is next, and after the first few seconds, you can easily envision being in Sardinia, with Roberto, taking you to his favorite places and sharing memories of his birthplace.
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We get our first taste of a vocal track at this point with “Everything About Us,” written by Tola with Jill Saward carrying the lead. It’s a slow-winding ballad that has “jazz standard” written all over it. Saward’s command of the lyric, along with a great piano performance transcends this song from good to great. Mintzer and Sharpe find their way back to the forefront on “Funky Party” which is another high point of the album. Everyone gets to shine on the jam and it turns into an all-out party by the track’s end. “Yellow Room” follows up nicely, featuring Tim Collins on the vibraphone. It’s a nice touch on this mid-tempo number that truly adds a colorful layer to the melody. The perfectly titled “Sunny Morning” comes next, featuring another great vocal from Saward, and should be a prime candidate for radio spins. It’s a bright and fun track that it’s the perfect song to start your day. The brightness continues on the next track on the album, as another sax legend, Najee shows up on “With You All The Clouds Go Away.” Our musical journey reaches the end with the finale, “Cabriolet,” but it’s a happy
ending, with another favorable melodic interplay between the guitar and horns. Roberto Tola has made a bold statement with his first album and set the bar rather high for his future releases. The good news is that after listening to this project, it is clear that Tola is up to the challenge, and will have fun doing it.
Featuring
Bob Mintzer Najee Bill McGee Jill Saward Bill Sharpe Tim Collins
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