LIONEL RICHIE SWEEPSTAKES WIN TICKETS INSIDE
MAR/APR 2017
GRAMMYS NIGHT OF JAZZ & THE WINNERS ARE...
TM
Magazine
Stephanie Mills Eric Darius Valentine’s Show
AL JARREAU TRIBUTE
In-Depth Interview with….
NATHAN EAST
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52 27 Selina Albright- Debut CD 37 Conversations Interview Lifestyle 48 Nathan East In-Depth Interview “Reverence” 07 The Jazz Bakery Grammy Night of Jazz Concerts 12 Grammy Winners Legendary Percussionist 37 Valentines with Stephanie Mills, Eric Darius and LA Collective
CD Releases 57 New CD’s
Remembering
18 Al Jarreau
Artists Pays Tribute
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CD Reviews 58 Chieli Minucci with Special EFX 68 Janice Kephart Deep As The Night Kamasutra 60 Kevin Eubanks 70 Terence Blanchard The Comedian East West Time Line 62 Carmen Lundy Code Noir 65 Phil Perry - Breathless
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Lifestyle - Music Review By: Lisa Summer
MOSS THEATER
SANTA MONICA, CA 02/10/17
The Jazz Bakery celebrates their 25th Anniversary at the Moss Theater in Santa Monica. The star-studded event, The Jazz Bakery Goes to The Grammys, the night featured several categories of jazz Photos By: Mann Grammy Nominees Joey Alexander, Peter Erskine and Bob Mintzer. Other performers included vocalist Carmen Lundy, Patrice Lundy and host Jeff Garlin (The Goldbergs and Curb Your Enthusiasm). This spectacular benefit concert was held for the Jazz Bakery Performance Fund, but the talk over the Dessert and Coffee reception in the VIP Carmen Lundy Bob Mintzer room after the show was Joey Alexander and his outstanding performance. Terry Trotter of “The Trio” that performed stated “At one point you just want to go out there and say enough is enough and take that kid off the stage.” Patrice Rushen, “I had to see him for myself, he was amazing.” Another topic for the evening was regarding the new venue for the Jazz Peter Erskine Patrice Rushen Bakery in downtown Culver City, CA designed by fame architect Frank Gehry. Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 07
Ruth Price, the President and Artistic Director welcomed everyone as she and Jeff started things off with a few jokes and introduced the performance lineup for the evening. The jazz concert commenced when “The Trio” of allstar musicians took the stage. The Trio consisted of Terry Trotter on piano, Chuck Berghofer on bass and Jeff Garlin Peter Erskine on drums. Terry has recorded for legRuth Price endary artist such as Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald and Celine Dion to name a few. Chuck is Photos By: Bob Barry known for his iconic bass line on Nancy Sinatra’s “These Boots are made for Walkin” as well as, his sound is identifiable on songs made popular by Frank Sinatra, Glen Campbell, Frank Zappa songs plus many others. Peter has The Trio played with Weather Report, Diana Krall, Pat Metheny and many more. Before The Trio’s set ended, they were joined by saxophonist Bob Mintzer of Yellowjackets fame. The night moved at a fast pace with the introduction of the next two more incredible artists, vocalist Carmen Lundy accompanied by Grammy winning pianist Patrice Rushen. Carmen performed a new year’s song that she wrote that all enjoyed. Carmen demonstrated her sultry and unique vocal styling and announced her new CD entitled, Code Noir, due out last month. Patrice known for working with world renown artists such as Stevie Wonder, Herbie Hancock, Stanley Turentine to name a few. Wonderful jazz pieces were played all night long. 08| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Lastly, 13 year old jazz pianist Joey Alexander stole the show, playing while standing and sitting during his performance. Joey, a child prodigy was nominated for “Best Improvised Jazz Solo” for the 59th Annual Grammys. Everyone watched in awe, as we witnessed him masterfully demonstrate his skills. Joey Alexander is the youngest jazz artist to ever be nominated for a Grammy.
At the end of a wonderful night of jazz and comedy, John W. Comerford and Ruth Price invited all to donate to the Jazz Bakery Performance Fund and Movable Feast Series, presenting the finest jazz artists in the world at prestigious venues throughout Southern California, as well as, the two new state-of-the-art theaters, educational programs, a West Coast Interactive Jazz Museum, art gallery, café and bar. There was no better timing than to ask for donations Watch Video: from an audience that had been thoroughly entertained. Password: Bakery1 Please donate to The Jazz Bakery and Keep jazz alive in Los Angeles.
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His superb horn playing is only topped by his incredible song-
writing abilities! There is something here for Everyone!!
Features: Jeff Lorber, Gary Novak, Bob Sheppard, Lenny Castro and the late Dave Carpenter.
Lifestyle - Music Photos By: Christine Chew
Congratulations to all the GRAMMY winners at the 59th annual Grammy Awards. During the pre-telecast ceremony (was viewable at Grammy.com). Jazz artists awards were given. Highlights of their ceremony included speeches by Gregory Porter, and writer Kabir Sehgal, executive producer of the Ted
Adele
Album Of The Year: Record Of The Year: Song Of The Year:
Lalah Hathaway Best R&B Album
Best Traditional R&B Performance:
Snarky Puppy
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Nash Big Band’s Presidential Suite. Following Nash’s speech accepting the award for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album, Sehgal gracefully pushed back against the cur-
Best Contemporary Instrumental Album: Culcha Vulcha
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Best Jazz Vocal Album:
Gregory Porter, paid a brief tribute to the late Al Jarreau, in his speech. Miles Ahead (Miles Davis & Various Artists) on Columbia/Legacy won the award for Best Compilation Soundtrack Album for Visual Media. Bobby Rush winner for Best Traditional Blues Album for Porcupine Meat.
Kabir Sehgal L and composer Ted Nash winners for Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album for Presidential Suite Eight Variations on Freedom. Let the music take you‌ SmoothJazz Magazine | 13
Lifestyle - Music Pre-Telecast Winners
White Sun backstage winners for Best New Age Album for White Sun II
Kalani Pe'a backstage winner for Best Regional Music Album for E Walea. 14| SmoothJazz Magazine
Chucho Valdes backstage winner for Best Latin Jazz Album for Tribute to Irakere Live in Marciac .
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Lifestyle - Music The Color Purple winners for Best Musical Theater Album
Tamela Mann winner for Best Gospel Performance Song for God Provides .
Lifestyle - Music William Bell winner for Best Americana Album for This Is Where I Live
Fantastic Negrito winner for Best Contemporary Blues Album for The Last Days of Oakland
The Silk Road Ensemble winners for Best World Music Album for Sing Me Home 16 | SmoothJazz Magazine
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Remembering
seven-time Grammy-winning singer, dies at 76 by:
smooth jazz artists
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Stanley Clarke Chaka Kahn Nathan East Norman Brown Gerald Albright Bobby Caldwell Joe McBride U-Nam Maysa Michael Paulo Marc Antione Jeff Lorber Najee Paul Jackson Jr. Nils Darren Rahn
Remembering Chaka Khan : Rest in power, you were EVERYTHING Jazz & beyond with an unrivaled improvisational genius. Love
Michael Paulo Today I lost a piece of my soul. ...12 years of some of the best times in Jeff Lorber: Al Jarreau was a my life. In 1983 I got the call to supremely talented, imaginative tour with al. I screamed with joy and unique artist who had a in my car that day. This morning I wonderful long career which in- wept driving . He put me on the cluded many timeless hit records international map and to this day and thousands of stellar performances. He that map has taken cared of me was one of the rare singers who showed a su- and my family. Mahalo Al. Will perior understanding of harmony and could miss you dearly. Aloha scat and improvise like the best sax player. He also had a talent for connecting with his audience in a very human way that few jazz musicians can, making it all seem effortless. He will be missed and I doubt we will hear anyone quite like him anytime in the future. Nils Juipter: I heard this morning, that Al Jarreau passed away. So sad, because I always wanted to work with him and hadn't had the chance. I grew up with his music. I remember dancing to Roof Garden and Boogie Down in the clubs in Munich. There are too many great songs to mention. Let the music take you‌ SmoothJazz Magazine | 19
Remembering Nathan East : I am truly heartbroken at the news of our beloved Al Jarreau passing. As he has now made his transition from this life, I reminisce on so many fun times we had on the road and in the studio together and will be forever grateful for the wonderful music he shared with the world. I find comfort in knowing that he is now free from all pain and suffering and is part of that ever growing incredible band in Heaven!
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U-Nam: Today, we lost a true jazz legend and inspiration, I had the chance to saw him live many times over the years and he never failed to be such an amazing performer and using his voice truly like an instrument! On a personal note, when I was a teenager back in Paris France, I had all his albums on K7 tapes and as I was listening to them non -stop, the tapes wormed out. The world will miss you Mr. Al Jarreau ... RIP Paul Jackson Jr. "I recorded with Al on several projects, as well as performing with him live at the Montreux Jazz Fest in Switzerland. His talent, his approach, his innovative vocal style will never be duplicated. Lord bless the memory of Al Jarreau."
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Remembering MAYSA: "I met Al Jarreau when I opened for him at Constitution Hall in D.C. in the late 90's and the first thing I said was' Mr. Jarreau I want to be free and scat and improvise like you.' He said, 'Girl you are good! Just never think about what you are going to sing, just sing what comes to your mind, done hold back, let it go.' He was my hero." -
Najee: "I recall the very first time I met Al Jarreau in Boston. It was while I was in college and I attended his concert at the Boston Symphony Hall. I had the opportunity to meet him backstage after the show. He was extremely kind to everyone and as anyone could imagine, everyone was trying to get his attention. No one could've told me that years later I would be sharing the stage with him on many occasions. Al had a way of lifting the human spirit through Music and through his interaction with people. Truly one of the most gifted people I have ever worked with. As with most of us, I will miss his charming personality, his ability to make people smile and feel welcome in his presence"
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Remembering Joe McBride: Brother Al Jarreau, Reston peace. Al Jarreau was a hero, and mentor in my life. He influenced my music, my life so deeply. I so deeply. I met him back in the late 80s when he came through Dallas on tour. I was playing a venue, he walked in, sat down, and ordered some food, and ice tea. When I took a break, a waitress brought me over to him, and I introduced myself. We sat and talked for at least 30 minutes. When ever we met by chance in the elevator at the hotel where we were staying, or backstage, he always would shake my hand, and say to me, "Brother McBride, it's great to see ya how . you doing man?" I was always taken aback. I learned how to scat from Al Jarreau, he definitely influenced my vocal stylings. So many great hits, so many memories. He was an Ambassador of music, and love. We love you brother Al, you will be missed.
I learned how to scat from Al Jarreau, he definitely influenced my vocal stylings. Joe McBride Bobby Caldwell: Al Jarreau was a beautiful man. He saw the world through beautiful eyes and so the world was a beautiful place. Anyone who knew him would surely agree with that assessment. Anyone who knew his music was impacted by its nature, for it too, was a beautiful thing and will continue to enrich people generations after us. Rest in peace my friend. 22 | SmoothJazz Magazine
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Stanley Clarke: Al was the greatest male jazz singer that I’ve ever played with. He was a truly unique talent. I was introduced to him many years ago by George Duke and went on to play with Al many times live as well as on many of his albums.
Photo By: Toshi Sakurai
The Al I knew was only interested in emanating love and joy to people. He was really a special person. He was 100% joy.
Al and I had many conversations regarding “art” in relationship to the world. He felt that no matter what evil doings are marinating in the environment, it’s the job of the artist to the best of their ability to put love and joy back into that environment. That way the scale doesn’t get tipped by the negative forces. Al wasn’t a guy that was in it for profit. He was in music to educate people about emotions. He was pure love. I don’t think I’ve ever seen him give a bad show. I’ve never seen him walk off the stage. I’ve never seen him treat the audience anyway other than the way they thought they should be treated. When he first started having some physical problems a few years ago, he had the great ability to truly rise above all that with his art. It made an impression on me. He was a real innovator…whatever stylists came before him, culminated with him. Al was a force, a wonderful artist and loved by so many. Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 23
Remembering Gerald Albright: "First of all, the knowledge of Al's death came to me in a text message as I was stepping off of a plane on February 12th. The news hit me like a brick and changed my entire demeanor for the balance of that day. What a huge loss for all of us. Following that burst of emotion, a smile came to my face, as I reflected on the blessing of having known, performed with, and recorded with this great icon. When I think of Al Jarreau, I first think of the man. Every time I saw him, he was full of joy, jokes, and laughter. His smile was infectious, and he made one feel better just being around him. He was always very caring, and supportive of my musicianship and our friendship. I always chuckled at the way he pronounced my first name. Al always had a unique way of enunciating his words. When I reflect on his musicianship and commitment to the arts, he stood alone with one of the most unique approaches to vocal acrobatics in the history of music. Presently, in an era where the climate of vocal stylings, in many cases, takes on a cookie-cutter effect in the music industry, Al Jarreau's unique style could be detected in the first few notes of hearing him sing. He developed his style during a time period where artists took much pride in sounding unique and branding their own style. There will never be another Al Jarreau! I'm honored to have been a featured saxophone soloist on two selections of his final CD project, "My Old Friend." Ironically, this musical effort was a dedication to a dear friend that both Al and I lost....George Duke. The Albright Family extends sincere condolences and deep prayers to the Jarreau family. The sound of Jarreau will live on for many years to come, and will always be a reminder that he was "an old friend" to all. 24 SmoothJazz Magazine
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Remembering
Norman Brown: "He is one of the greatest singers that ever walked the planet. Mr. Al Jarreau, we love you. Thank you so much for giving us all these years pure joy and happiness through your music. You have given us comfort, support, inspiration and upliftment. This is a man I studied growing up. His sound was impeccable, incredible and heavenly. We love you Al."
Marc Antione: "Al has been a great inspiration for me. As soon as he would sing you would know right away who it was. To me he was exceptional as a musician and human being. I will miss him dearly.” Darren Rahn: "Al Jarreau shared his gift with love, passion, excellence and class. He made such a difference in our world. His music shaped a big part of my story and early on I was blessed to watch him deliver one of the most powerful live musical performances I’ve ever witnessed—something I’ll never forget. It was life changing. Meeting Al Jarreau was one of the greatest honors of my life. He will be so missed. Thanks for doing it right Al, your legacy as a person, humanitarian and musician is unparalleled.” Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 25
A smooth crooner with a flair for scat singing, vocal icon Al Jarreau released jazz, pop, and R&B records across four decades.
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Photos By: Lamar Webster
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Feature
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Feature Interview By: Ahlia Love
“Standing in her own ShoeS“ I believe there’s a natural expectation to expect greatness from someone genetically connected to incredible talent. This particular Artist has happily exceeded my expectations in a way that is beyond description. Singer, songwriter and Super Soul Sister Selina Albright is definitely the one to watch as her solo star rises on the musical frontier. She's old school. She's new school and comfortably fits every pocket in between. I refer to her as a Soul Sister because her music speaks to your soul in a way that only a true organic Artist can accomplish. While I enjoyed listening the entire “Conversations” CD there were two particular tracks that impacted me most. “Wifey Anthem.” This song should become the how-to manual for new brides and young ladies considering marriage. Listen to the tracked and learn something ladies. The track “Let Go” is selfexplanatory. Most of us carry too much baggage. Life doesn't have to be that hard…just let go. I have to say that this was an incredibly FUN interview and I hope you enjoy the experience as much as I did. SJM: Since you were actually born into music (daughter of Gerald Albright) I won't ask you the typical questions about how you got started in the business. What I will ask is when did you start to seriously consider music as a career? Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 29
Feature SELINA: That's a tough one because I had been fighting it for years because I was afraid that I wouldn't be good enough at it. I was afraid of the shoes that I had to fill and I was actually afraid of being so good at it that I would lose who I am lose my life to the industry. So I fought it for many years. It wasn't until about 10 years ago that I went to my Dad and said “You know what, I'm quitting Grad school and I'm gonna’ do music full time. Let's do it”. And in these past 10 years when I finally decided to focus my attention and my energy on it…I've experienced some amazing moments musically.
pending on what the relationship needs that day. She's amazing. The first time I met her I had already heard her voice on other recordings. I don't remember which one I had heard specifically but her voice was just so full and deep…just effortless. I could tell because I was already a singer at that age, and she was doing some really complicated things, because I couldn't do them. I don't remember what year it was but my Dad was working with her on a song called “I Surrender.” She recorded that at our home (at that time in Moorpark, CA.) SJM: Having met so many legendary She came to the house and I didn't Artists is there any one in particular who know what to say to her. She was so made you giddy when you first met him nice to me. She was always really funny. or her? In another life I bet you she was a CoSELINA: Oh my gosh, um…Layla Hatha- medienne. She's like that funny, just way. She is like an Auntie/Cousin devery intelligent. Well versed on a lot of topics especially in music and the science behind the music. So because I knew that about her I was just so enamored with her voice and just her presence that I hardly spoke to her most of the time. But she just kind of took to me really easily and the rest is history. I 30| SmoothJazz Magazine
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“And that’s when I knew that I needed to stop playing around and just go ahead and peruse this completely.” absolutely love her and I do get giddy. I get giddy every time I hear her sing. She's always doing something new because she continues to study her craft. I could talk about her all day. SJM: Selina, it's hard to believe that “Conversations” is your debut release. Considering that you've performed with so many well known Acts for the past decade such as George Duke, Norman Brown, Marcus Miller, Hugh Masakela, Candy Dulfer, Chaka Khan, Pieces of A Dream and so many others your seasoned approach to music is understandable. But what brought you to the conclusion that it was finally time to release a solo project? SELINA: I was in downtown Dallas visiting some friends and we ended up in a Fudge shop inside of a shopping mall. The people behind the counter sing to you when they're preparing your order. I noticed that they were singing all of the songs that I liked, Motown. Everything from the Supremes to the Temptations. They were singing all of that and so my friend said “Hey, Selina is a singer too” and I'm like “Shhhh…Shut up.” They ended up asking me to sing with them and we did The Temptation’s “My Girl.” I tell you when they backed me up on this song by the time I got half way through the first verse I had a crowd. People were coming from other parts of the mall and by the time we got to the end of the song I had an audience and they were all clapping. And that’s when I knew that I needed to stop playing around and just go ahead and peruse this completely. I was going to Grad School for a Masters I was going to Grad School in School Counseling and I stopped, defor a Masters in School cided I was finished, went straight to Counseling and I stop- music. The rest is history.
ped, decided I finished, went to music. The is history.
was straight rest
SJM: I surfed through your website and saw your Q&A Video and discovered that you and I share the same exact perspective on one particular topic,
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Feature so here’s my “Off the beaten path” question…How do you feel about Shopping? SELINA: (She laughed) The only thing I like shopping for is food. Hence the single “Eat Something.” I love going to Whole Foods, Sprouts and especially (shops) outside of the country. Their grocery stores are amazing. But I don't like shopping for clothes I do it by necessity only. It just takes too long. Then you have to try on the clothes and then you have everybody coming at you trying to get a sale. It's just a lot. I would rather just order stuff online and have it delivered but then I don't know if it's going to fit so I end up having to go shopping. I don't like it. I like to get in and get out. So I don't try things on in the store unless it's something like an evening gown where I have to try it on to see if I have to get it altered. I avoid it (shopping) at all costs. It's not retail therapy for me. I'm so glad to know that there are other women who DON’T like to shop. SJM: You are a true musical chameleon but is there a genre of music you would consider your pocket? SELINA: I would definitely say R&B, R&B Soul. I've been doing jazz for a long time and have been performing with Smooth Jazz Artists for a long time. So that's the easiest thing for me to do. But I would have to say the type of music that really hits my heart in a different way and makes me want to write music in that genre is R&B soul. Being true to myself and true to what's in my heart on this project had been a little scary at first but now its freeing. It's very liberating. SJM: Again, I was on your website and I saw the video where you accepted Layla Hathaway’s performance challenge. (Layla issued a challenge on Twitter for her followers to memorize and perform the Snarky Puppy single “Something” This was to be recorded and posted on Youtube) Ok, you said Layla ripped it…but Selina, you indeed ROCKED it. For me it was so much fun to watch and I just imagined how wild a crowd would become watching the two of you performing that song live together. Would you ever consider doing a duet or tour with Layla or a similar contemporary? SELINA: Of course I would. That would be a really fun tour because I already know her background singers and everything. We've been on cruise ships together and 32 | SmoothJazz Magazine
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all that good stuff. Performing on the ships we kind of know each other. That would be a fun tour. Oooo, that would be fun, WOW. And I've thought about it but I don't know…I think I've just been a little too nervous to ask. (I told Selina it’s out in the Universe now, from our lips to God’s Ears…it’s gonna’ happen…just wait and see. And remember you heard it hear first at Smooth Jazz Magazine). SJM: I've seen your Father trying to maintain cool while the two of you are on stage; knowing that on the inside he’s about to burst at the seams with pride. When you think of some of the musical greats who have/had children in the business like Marvin Gaye, Nat King Cole and Donnie Hathaway; since you are one of the few Artists who has had the opportunity to perform with your Father, how does that make you feel at this point in your career? SELINA: It's just great, it's a dream come true. I mean I know from my Dad he does tear up on stage sometimes. As for me, I have to shut that part off until I get home that night. Because you know I'm wearing makeup too. You can't mess up your make up and you can't cry and sing at the same time because I'd just get all snotty. I suppress that until I get home. After the crowd is gone. After the CDs are sold and they've all been signed; then I think about it and I'm just like WOW, because not a lot of Daughters or Sons get this opportunity. So anytime we get to have a father daughter show, even if it's just one or two songs I'm super grateful because it's a really rare situation. And then to be surrounded also by my Dad's Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 33
Feature colleagues and to also know how hard he works to get to the point where he is and then to know that I'm not filling his shoes, I found my own shoes and we're just standing there together it's just huge for me and it's a little bit surreal. As I said before, I've been fighting this for a long time and for us to be finally able to share the stage and I'm a solo artist it’s really huge for me and I'm really grateful. SJM: Watching you perform is a delight and I know that you draw energy from your audience so I'm curious what do you prefer large venues or a more intimate setting? SELINA: As long as the crowd is engaging with me and singing and I can see their heads bobbin’ and they're going “Wheeew” you know, then I'm cool with large or small. I like connecting with as many people as possible so however I can reach them I'll be there singing the same show whether it's a small crowd or a huge crowd. SJM: I have one more “Off The Beaten Path” question for you. Since the first track on “Conversations” is entitled “Eat Something” Please tell me, what's your favorite food? SELINA: Aww that's hard. That’s like choosing a favorite child. I really like fried plantain. For some reason I can't eat enough of them. I never get full off then. I just stop eating them when I get tired of chewing. And then I like spaghetti or anything pasta related especially when my husband makes it. And my mom is really good at pasta too. And I love my Mom’s Chicken and Waffles. She has ruined chicken and waffles for me everywhere. I can't eat Roscoe’s, I can't eat anybody's waffle and I don't even usually eat their chicken because I know it's not my Mom’s. I really like an amazing steak, medium well cooked in butter. (Ahlia) You gotta’ eat lunch very fast, like soon after this call cause I'm about to make you very hungry. Yea, butter and a little bit of Lee and Perrins (steak sauce) Yes, and some black peppercorns and some sea salt, yes. I love steak and really like seafood a lot. I really like proteins and vegetables. Any kind of variety I can have of 34| SmoothJazz Magazine
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that is great. Me and my husband plan our vacations sometimes around food. We went to Portugal in November and all we did was find new fish and new desserts we hadn't eaten and we either cooked them or went to a restaurant and ate and that was so much fun. And sometimes we lost weight. The food is so much healthier in other countries. We always lose weight when we go overseas. SJM: Selina, what do you want the world to remember about you?
Selina has the blessing of being surrounded by positive influences who have allowed her to experience the memories and the joy that goes into the creative process making it seem less like a job. This hardly makes her naïve to the business of music. It simply means that she has the proper tools that help her tune into the folks who need to be weeded out of her circle much sooner than many others. Make sure you pick up the CD “Conversations” and if you find yourself needing a pick me up at any point in your day just visit www.selinaalbright.com.
SELINA: I want them to remember that I had joy whenever I would get on the stage. I want them to remember my energy. There are a lot of artists out there who forget what an opportunity it is to be on stage. Maybe life is moving too fast for them that they forget to enjoy it. They forget that they have people in the audience who paid for a ticket to see them and so you really have a duty, you have a responsibility and it's really humbling. So I want them to remember that I have been enjoying myself to the fullest, pretty much every moment. I don't Guaranteed to put a smile on your face. even like flying on planes very much. I Selina Albright your genuine, bubbly don't like the travel but I'll do it because personality is so refreshing. Don’t ever of the music and I'll do it because there are people who are going to come to my change. Thank you Mr. & Mrs. Albright shows just to see me and that's an hon- for infusing Selina with so much aweor. someness. Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 35
Smooth Jazz
Magazine
Concerts Review By: Lisa Summer
Photos By: Mann
“A Special Evening of Music for Friends & Lovers” with Stephanie Mills, Eric Darius and The L.A. Collective was a great success by promoter Kim Benoit of Rainbow Promotions. The show began with the L.A. Collective. This Southern California jazz band consists of instrumentalists normally seen with other headliners who have now come together as a collective group. The L.A. Collective consists of Adam Hawley on guitar, Greg Manning on keyboards, Tony Moore on drums, special guest performers were Nathaniel Kearney Jr. on bass and Keith McKelley on Saxophone. The synergy of the group and the energy that they created was amazing. The crowd enjoyed every song, every solo and every musician. It’s understandable why they are called L.A. Collective. Their collective energy brought the stage to life in a smooth jazz style. Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 37
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Concerts By: Lisa Summer
The amazing saxophonist, composer, producer, Eric Darius, who pushed the already engaged crowd to its highest level of the night. His fearless styling and stage presence took the audience by storm. He had the audience on its feet in no time, dancing to his grooves. Eric started his show in the crowd, stage right for a up close and personal interaction that started the fever pitch enthusiasm of the crowd that lasted the whole set. Eric played songs from his first to album “Crusin” C (2000) released at the age of 17, and from his current album “Retro Forward” (2014) with his own special high octane on Pharrell Williams remake of “Happy.” At the end of his show Pat Prescott said, “Wouldn’t we all like to have that kind of energy again.” 40 SmoothJazz Magazine Let the music take you…
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Concerts
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Concerts Review By: Lisa Summer
Photos By: Mann
Grammy Award winning recording artist Stephanie Mills took the stage looking like she had not aged one day since she exploded on the scene as Dorothy in The Wiz in the 80’s. Stephanie was bubbly, the entire show as she even stated to the crowd that she will be turning 60 in March which drew a very warm applause from her adoring fans. Singing all her hits such as “I Feel Good All Over,” “Never Knew Love Like This Before,” “Rush On Me,” “Two Hearts,” “Feel The Fire,” “What Cha Gonna Do With My Lovin’“and the hits from The Wiz that turned the 9 year old into a super-star. She had three outstanding male background singers who took turns doing duets with the sassy Stephanie. The audience sung along with Stephanie, song after song. The night was incredible and one that will always be remembered. In a moment of brief levity, she mentioned that she has had a couple of senior moments during the songs, but quipped, “My band director is only 25 and he is having senior moment too.” The 2017 Valentine’s Concert, “A Special Evening of Music for Friends & Lovers” was just the first of three events slated for the year as Rainbow Promotion will now be producing the San Diego Jazz Festival along with the legendary Long Beach Jazz Festival as the Queen of Smooth Radio Pat Prescott of 94.7 The Wave made the announcement to the crowd. Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 45
Concerts
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Feature
In-Depth Interview with….
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Concert Q & A with Bassist Nathan East about his new CD release: “Reverence” Jan 20, 2017
Review By: Lisa Summer
Smooth Jazz Magazine caught up briefly with Nathan at the Yamaha exhibit at this year’s NAMM 2017 to set up a time to talk to him about his new music, his life and what it’s like being one of baddest bass players on the planet. Nathan Harrell East born December 8, 1955, one of eight children is a jazz, R & B, rock and roll, pop, contemporary bass player, writer and producer. Nathan is considered one of the most recorded bass players in the history of music with more than 2,000 recordings to his credit. He is a founding member of the contemporary jazz quartet, Fourplay. He is a legend in his own right who writes, records, performs and produces songs with performers such as Eric Clapton, Whitney Houston, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, George Harrison, Toto, Daft Punk, Herbie Hancock and many others. Nathan has an online course to teach anyone to play the bass guitar like a pro. With four tours scheduled this year with Fourplay, Eric Clapton, Chick Corea and his own. He also designs and creates bass guitars for Yamaha; does voice overs and has a foundation. His exceptional musicianship, philanthropic desires, spirituality and balancing skills are what makes Nathan East one of the most successful musicians in the busiLet the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 49
Feature ness over the past 40 years. Nathan East Interview: Smooth Jazz Magazine got an opportunity to interview Bassist, Nathan East while taping the Jimmy Kimbel Show in New York last month. Unlike other interviews, we wanted to give you a more personal look at the humble man behind the bass and what this industry means to him, its effect on his family, his philosophy about life and his new CD, Reverence. SJM: Nathan, most musicians don’t succeed because the industry is riddled with pitfalls? Tell our readers, what is your secret to living a successful f life? Nathan: You know it’s tricky. First of all, you have to get your priorities in order. The family is number one. You have to focus where you spend your energy and your time. Family first, and then of course….Daddy has to work. But, You just try to balance it out, as good as you can. SJM: Your wife is a physician, right? Having her there with you must be a blessing. Nathan: Yes, she’s a pediatrician. Yes, she is a blessing! SJM: How does she feel about you being gone so much? Nathan: Obviously, they don’t like to see daddy go, but they get a good idea about good work ethics and that’s good. My daughter is an amazing athlete. She is a competitive gymnast and she just joined the track team at school. 50| SmoothJazz Magazine
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“I do know by not pigeonhole myself into just one type of music. I have been able to work coming up on 40 years.” SJM: Absolutely! You have two children, ones defying the odds in sports and the other in music. Noah is featured on this CD. He probably gets a little more time with dad than anyone. What’s the best thing about having your son follow in your footsteps into the music world? Nathan: Oh my goodness, he’s such a fun guy to hang with! I love hanging with him. We went to Japan together for 10 days in Tokyo. We just had the best time. We rented bikes and rode around Tokyo. But, I have to say playing music with him is a joy because he really gets it and he’s a really good musician. So, it’s just a thrill and it’s a proud moment for me as a dad to just play with your son. SJM: When you were attending college San Diego. Did you ever believe you were going to become one of the world’s most successful bassists?
on it. That was kind of like my aspiration. You look up there and you want to be one of those who are making it. So, I am glad that I discovered music and something that I wanted to do and wanted to excel at. I am practicing right now. (He laughs) SJM: Do you really still practice? Nathan: I practice. I have to practice. (He laughs) SJM: Do you think your versatility in all genres of music is what makes you an exceptional bassist? Nathan: Well, I do know by not pigeonhole myself into just one type of music. I have been able to work coming up on 40 years. I’ve never just wanted to do one thing, if that dried up, what do you do. I listened to a lot of different music when I was growing up. So what I do is almost like my record collection. Its’ all over the place. You have jazz, you have Hendrix, you’ve got rock n roll. You’ve
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Feature SJM: Are you producing any new CDs for Nathan: First and foremost, I have a other artists? great record label, Yamaha Entertainment Group and my co-producer Chris Nathan: At the moment, having just wrapped up mine. I am not working on Gero. We got together and got a big any. My co-writer and the guy I share a white board and we started writing studio with, Tom Keane and I produced down the songs we like Feels like home. his son Mack Keane. We did an EPK, like Then, made a dream list of who we would like to play on the record, called 7 songs instead 12 songs. That’s just around to see what studios we want. coming out. Then, started recording and putting it all (Side note: Smooth Jazz Magazine gets together. We got the guys, the songs the inside scoop on any and all new muand then start carving out some arsic. After concluding the interview, we rangements and get some ideas going looked up the new release from Mack and next thing you know you’re on your Keane and found the song, way to having a record. “Imagination.” Go check it out. He SJM: So how long does this process sounds terrific.) take? SJM: Why did it take you so long for a Nathan: It’s long because you do prenew solo project? production where you are getting the Nathan: We did a Fourplay project and a arrangements, the ideas and start orBob James duo project and I’ve been reganizing it. Once you start getting your cording and touring, and spending time basic tracks, then you start finishing with my family too. There really hasn’t them up. been any time left SJM: So, how do you prepare for doing a solo project like “Reverence”? Can you walk me through the process? 52| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Next, we start looking for the featured artists. So for instance, we sent the song “Feels Like Home” to Yolanda Adams and she loved it, so we flew down to Houston. While getting all of these pieces of the puzzle together, time is flying by. Then, it has to be mixed. Sometime, that is like making the record, all over again. Once you mix it and you get every note where you want it to be, then you have to master the record and that is a whole other process. SJM: You must be doing two Grammys and been projects.
something right. You’ve won on a lot of awarding winning
Nathan: The first time I temporary instrumental I say is that the nominacause, they look at thoubreak it down to just 5.
got nominated for best conalbum, I didn’t win. But, what tion is almost harder be“For me, you know you sands of records and they won, when somebody says your record SJM: It really is an accomplishment, just to get nomitouched me. That’s nated. Most don’t realize you beat out everybody on gold to me. “ the planet to even be recognized by the committee. Nathan: To get a nomination is a big deal. That is almost as good as winning. SJM I think you will be recognized on this one. You have your son, Kirk Whalum, Kikki Yanofsky, Phil Bailey, Verdine White, Ralph Johnson, Chick Corea, great songs and musicianship are what makes up a Grammy nomination. With this closer look into the heart, soul and mind of Nathan East I say its Grammy material. Nathan: Your lips to God’s ears. It would be fantastic. You go out and put your heart in there and if you get recognized, that’s a bonus. For me, you know you won when somebody says your record touched me. That’s gold to me. Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 53
Feature SJM: OK, so how did the shirtless cover come about? Nathan: That was funny. The night before I was flying to Nashville, I was told we are going to do the cover in Nashville. My daughter and I went to the mall, got the credit card out and by the time we went to the shoot we had 2 or 3 bags of clothes over my shoulder. And then, I was told, okay, we’re going to go shirtless. (He laughs) And I said wait, wait, wait, wait, wait…..I told him okay take the pictures and we’ll have to see if we like them but you have to let me take some pictures in these new suits and ties that I just bought. (more laughing). SJM: I can see where this is going. I can see you telling them, Look you gotta let me take some pictures in these new suits or my wife’s going to make me take them back. (Laughing) Nathan: Thank you. (Laughing) I showed the shirtless pictures to my wife and kids and they signed off on it and said okay. The kids loved it and she did too. SJM: The concept is very unique. It makes a statement and it’s real. It’s a deeper look into the man behind the bass. The concept separates you from everyone else. Nathan: Thanks, that’s how you come into the world you know. Plus, it was meant to be something that talked about reverence. I also wanted to pay my respect and reverence for Maurice White. SJM: So, you were ok with it and did the shoot. Nathan: Oh, yes…. I keep a completely open mind. All I can say is Thank God for yoga. SJM: How was Serpentine Fire chosen out of all of the Earth, Wind and Fire songs? 54 | SmoothJazz Magazine
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Nathan: Marcel (His Brother) and I recorded Serpentine Fire in 1991. And so, we always had a bunch of concept projects and that was going to be for our duo project. It was one of those things where we recorded it and we never really put it out. But, we did have a finished record that we loved. So, my engineer is the same engineer that recorded and mixed it, he sat me down and played it for me while working on this project. I was like W-H-A-T??? And so, we totally revived it and that’s when we decided to have Earth, Wind and Fire come in and play on the track too. Philip Bailey came in and sang while Ralph Johnson played percussion and Verdine White came in. He is my hero as well as my mentor. He is just an exceptional player with a spirituality that comes out when he plays on records and on stage. SJM: Is there anybody that you haven’t played with that you would like to? Nathan: I haven’t played with Steely Dan that is a group I have always loved, as well as, James Taylor, Pat Methany and Prince was on my list. And when I see groups like U2, I always say to myself, how fun would that be. SMJ: Does the CD Reverence saying anything about what’s going on right now in America? Nathan: Absolutely, the whole time I was thinking about what’s going on. I was thinking about having respect, honor, love for one another. We were taught respect, humility, not to gloat or brag. We were taught you respect your fellow man, whether you agree or disagree. We were taught kindness. We were taught reverence. SJM: I have to thank Nathan for taking out time from his busy schedule to remind us all that we need a little reverence every day. And we all need a lot of that right about now.
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Smooth Jazz Magazine
PROMO CODE: LIONEL
ENTER NOW 56| SmoothJazz Magazine
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New CD Releases 2017
Norman Brown "Let It Go" 04/14/17 BUY
Joey DeFrancesco & The People "Project Freedom" 03/10/17 BUY
Nick Finzer "Hear & Now" 02/17/17 BUY
Cindy Bradley “Natural” 03/31/17 BUY
Jose James "Love In A Time Of Madness" 02/24 /17 BUY
Jimmy Scott "Hear & Now" 01/27/17 BUY
Jeff Lorber Fusion "Prototype" 03/24/17 BUY
Clint Holmes "Rendezvous" 2/24/17 BUY
Brad Mehldau "Chris Thile & Brad Mehldau" 01/27/17 BUY
CD Review By: Keivu Knox The great guitarist Chieli Minucci along with Special EFX returns with their latest release “Deep As The Night,” featuring his supergroup Special EFX. This is a 12 track offering that allows Minucci to showcase not only what has made him such a sought after musician, but what greatness sounds like when everything comes together perfectly. The album starts off with the title track, and with the blending of an irresistible melody with supreme musicianship. Chieli’s guitar along with Lionel Cordew on drums, keep us engaged throughout this joyful track. Speaking of joy, the aptly titled “Another Day, Another Smile” quickly became one of my favorites. The infusion of a great violin performance by Antoine Silverman adds a layer of depth and texture to another great melody. The greatness continues on the next song, which is also the first single from the album, entitled “Lavish.” On this song we find Elan Trotman on sax, complimenting Minucci’s guitar on the hook very well. This song should find its way to many a radio station throughout this spring and summer. We find a slight change of pace on “Dance In The Delta.” This is a fun fusion of 58| SmoothJazz Magazine
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jazz and bluegrass that again finds great melody and greater musicians keeping everything together. Silverman’s violin along with Minu Cinelu on percussion, dominate this track. “Across The Seven Seas” is up next and gives us a breezy mid -tempo cut that is as relaxing as the title suggests. There is a lot to like about this album. Tracks such as “You Were The One” and “Never Ending Love,” provide more memorable melodies. “Mother of Pearl,” is an all-out toe tapper that will find its way to a few soundtracks at cookouts and parties this summer. The closing track on the album, “Endless Us” is the perfect ending to this, dare I say perfect album, as it showcases a different guitar performance by Minucci, and leaves you wanting more. Consistency throughout an album can be a hard thing to attain, but Chielu Minucci and Special EFX make it look, and SOUND easy. 21 albums in, and “Deep As The Night” sounds just as great, and fresh, and innovative as any other release in their 35 year history.
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CD Review
Keiko Matsui
Review By: André Taylor The new album by Kevin Eubanks is a reminder of the transformative power of jazz; particularly when performed by extraordinary musicians. With the help of bi-coastal jazz masters, Eubanks has delivered an album that is at times, contemplative and reflective, and at other times almost whimsical. Ten elegant instrumentals take the listener through comfortable states of mind, regions, cultures, and points of reference with each stop accented by beautiful arrangements, moving interpretations, and great moments. It’s music for thinkers, for lovers, and will stir your creative juices. Listeners will also find it peaceful and soothing in today’s political climate of upheaval and turmoil. My favorites are an upbeat arrangement of Marvin Gaye’s What’s Going On, and a soulful rendition of John Coltrane’s and Johnny Hartman’s My One and Only One. 60 | SmoothJazz Magazine
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EXHIBITS EXHIBITS
New NewYork—Miami York—Miami Coming Soon
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CD Review
CARMEN LUNDY
JAZZ VOCALIST COMPOSER ARRANGER VISUAL ARTIST
Review By: Keivu Knox
Veteran jazz vocalist Carmen Lundy returns for her 15th album, “Code Noir.” This is an album that is able to successfully navigate through various genres, yet keep the tone and timber of Lundy’s voice in the forefront. The variety of sound on this album gives the listener something fresh and new to hear each time, but it’s not just the music that shows supreme diversity. As Lundy handled the writing on all 12 tracks of the album, the lyrical content and subject matter is wide ranging as well.
breezy tune that is driven by Lundy’s voice weaving throughout the lyric. Things pick up a bit on the next two tracks. “Live Out Loud” and “Black and Blues” find us thinking deeply about not only our own life, but the lives of others. Considering our current society’s state of affairs, these songs are right on time.
The album’s opening track, the alluring “Another Chance,” gives us the first, but definitely not the last chance, of hearing a song that gets everything right. It’s a 62| SmoothJazz Magazine
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While the topic of love remains a constant in these songs, the mix of genres keeps the album flowing nicely. Of course, it also helps when you have musicians such as Patrice Rushen, Ben Williams, Jeff Parker, Kendrick Scott and vocalist Elisabeth Oei complimenting Lundy’s stellar work. Even in the mix of a great band lineup, Lundy plays the keyboard and guitar on the album as well. For me, as I often say, the mark of a great album is if there is a song that makes it hard to skip past. On Code Noir, the greatness is cemented by “I Got Your Number.” The story of an initial meeting between two people and the feelings behind it is further illustrated by a smooth jazz groove and effortless vocals by Lundy. Carmen Lundy was able to gift us with an album that successfully accomplishes a few things. She was able to create an album that gives us a lot to listen to musically, yet keeps the subject matter relevant, while showing off her unique vocal ability. Code Noir will be an album that not only
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CD Review
By: Carolyn Beverly
Phil Perry celebrates forty-eight years as a recording artist with the release of his 12th solo cd. And, if there is ever anything that I know for sure, believe me when I say this cd is definitely going to take your breath away. It is going to leave you “Breathless.” Which by the way is the title of the cd and title track number one. Take my advice and do not listen to this cd alone. Do what you must host a listening party. Call a friend! I am simply Breathless doing this review. There are 10 awesome tracks on this cd and from beginning to end it the 100 percent of pure pleasure of nothing but Authentic Phil Perry’s special blend of musical enjoyment. Each track takes you through an amazing musical journey with vides that is sure to send you to the moon. Breathless is design with lovers in mind going straight to the heart from the heart. From the title track Breathless will leave you just that as Phil Perry explains. “Each of my 12 solo projects is a House where listeners go to hear the music, but while they are in there they also feel a lot of love – it’s Home Sweet Home.” Breathless was written by coproducer Chris “Big Dog” Davis and Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 65
Fred Sawyer.
“Each of my 12 solo projects is a House where listeners go to hear the music, but while they are in there they also feel a lot of love – it’s Home Sweet Home.”
Phil Perry does his rendition of a Fifth Dimension’s 70’s hit “One Less Bell to Answer” and a Stevie Wonder’s timeless classic “Love’s In Need of Love Today” adding his own favorPhil able special blended mixture of Perry flavor with some hot sauce.
Perry
Other tracks included on Breathless are “Never Can Say Goodbye,” “Do Whatcha Gotta Do,” “Is It You,” “Nobody But You,” “Heavens Away,” “Someday We’ll Meet Again,” “Moments in the House of Love.” In closing let me just say that I go way back with Phil Perry and, on this cd he definitely brings it full circle. Thank you Phil Perry for 48 years of Pure Pleasure and 12 solo cds of the very Best! Of Phil Perry… Congratulations!!!
1 Breathless 2 Never Can Say Gooodbye 3 Do Whatcha Gotta Do 4 Love's In Need Of Love Today 5 Is It You 6 Nobody Buy You 7 Heavens Away 8 One Less Bell To Answer 9 Someday We'll Meet Again 10 Moments In The House Of Love
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Review By: Maria L. Lewis Janice Kephart is a spoken songwriter and vocalist from Virginia, whose works have gained attention from all over the world from musicians, critics, and listeners of all musical genres. Kephart has nearly 50 published and collaborative pieces with musicians from several countries around the world. She views her work as “Trip Poetry” and “Kamasutra” is Kephart’s first full length album – adding all words and vocals to her credit. “Honeybee” is the album's first selection, a sensuous concoction of blending Janice's unusual, evocative vocal alongside multiple genres infusing Jazz elements, Pop, and sounds from India into one. It also features sax and flute solos. “Instantaneous” is a hip tune with a catchy chorus featuring Kephart performing spoken word, and Ken Eros on background vocals, making this a lead spoken/sung duet. Eros is also the lead of Green Man, as well as the sound engineer and producer on the album. The Pop-driven tune “Mercenary” has a groovy beat and features an intoxicating electric guitar part with background vocals by Green Man's April Theriault -that is nothing short of creative! The tune “Haste” spells mystery and seduction with its intense bass line- taking the listener on a journey to another dimension. “Fragrance” will hypnotize you with the sounds of Arabia, and soft colors of sounds and words.. 68 | SmoothJazz Magazine
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1 Honeybee 2 Kamasutra 3 Instantaneous 4 Hibiscus Oil 5 Mercenary 6 Transgression 7 Stars Stacked 8 Haste 9 Walled Heart 10 Fragrance 11 Succulent Winning In the eyes of Janice Kephart, “Poetry is about emotions that are present in all of us.” The purpose of Janice fusion of spoken word and music is to create a vision for self-improvement, and to incorporate those energies into the world around you. If you are a fan of Spoken Word, and wanting to expand your listening tastes – give “Kamasutra” your listening ear. Watch : Instantaneous
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CD Reviews Review By: Avzal Ismail
(Original Motion Picture Soundtrack) Sitting here in my home on this Sunday night, I just learned of the passing of the Photos By: David Johnson great Al Jarreau. Needless to say I am pretty devastated as Al has been a part of my own musical life for the past four decades. However, there is music to be listened to and reviews to be written and despite the sadness of the evening I found respite in listening to a wonderful soundtrack written by the great Terence Blanchard of what seems to be a wonderful movie about to hit the circuit. Certainly one that I am looking forward to watching once it hits the big screen. “The Comedian” starring Robert De Niro and Leslie Mann is the setting for Blanchard’s score featuring a host of top tier musicians including the great Kenny Barron, Ravi Coltrane, Carl Allen, David Pulphus and Khari Allen Lee to give us a powerhouse sextet with some of the finest musicians to ever grace the planet. 70 | SmoothJazz Magazine
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laying style steeped deeply in the language of BeBop. A veritable historical tour de force as he lets rip.
still holding form, and harmonic and melodic convergence.
The multiple Grammy winning Blanchard has composed a sublime score to the movie, pushing boundaries and transporting you right into the smoky atmosphere of a great jazz club, Jimmy Walker where the sounds were powerful, the Blanchard’s writing style for the movie is Jack Daniels was strong the smoke filled reminiscent of the great groups of the the atmosphere during those heady 1950’s and 60’s post bop era where the days. playing went beyond boundaries while Blanchard’s score serves as the perfect setting for the story of Jackie Burke ( played by De Niro) a jazz loving comedic icon who loves collecting albums by Art Blakey whilst doing a great impression of the legendary Birdland emcee Danny DeVito Billy Crystal
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Pee Wee Marquette. The legendary group that Blanchard has put together for this recording is just that...LEGENDARY with the musicians steeped in jazz history. The playing is utterly of the highest standard and one will be hard pressed to find a better sextet than this one. It’s hard to select a favorite track off this recording as they each carry a particular theme with intense, virtuosic playing all around. This is one album that is going to be on the repeat button for at least a few days. If the soundtrack is anything to go by, then I am certainly looking forward to not only watching “The Comedian” when it comes to my city but to adding it ultimately to my personal collection. Kudos to Terence Blanchard for writing a superb score to what can only be a great movie.
( Soundtrack) 1.Jackie In The Rain (feat. Kenny Barron, Carl Allen, David Pulphus) 2.Jackie Gets Out feat. Kenny Barron, Carl Allen, David Pulphus) 3.Deli To Soup
(feat. Kenny Barron, Ravi Coltrane, Carl Allen, David Pulphus, Khari Allen Lee 4.Electricity On MacDougal feat. Kenny Barron, Ravi Coltrane, Carl Allen, David Pulphus, Khari Allen Lee)
5.Tit For Tat Nocturne (feat. Kenny Barron, Ravi Coltrane, Carl Allen, David Pulphus) 6.Kenny Gets Out (Kenny Barron feat. David Pulphus) 7.Jackie’s Lament (feat. Kenny Barron, Ravi Coltrane, Carl Allen, David Pulphus, Khari Allen Lee) 8.Florida Salsa feat. Kenny Barron, Ravi Coltrane, Carl Allen, David Pulphus, Khari Allen Lee.
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I