Remembering Nick Colionne: by Artists, Fans & Insiders
Jan/Feb 2022
TM
MAGAZINE
INTERVIEWS Brian Culbertson Dave Koz
CONCERT
Kirk Whalum Selina Albright
Jazz Legacy Foundation
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12 Feature
12 Brian Culbertson The Trilogy - Interview 30 Vincent Ingala Moving On Up 36 Dave Koz Bringing Goodness to Light
Jazz Notes 08 Kirk Whalum Receives USCT Humanitarian Award 09 Grammy Awards Selects Trevor Noah Again Festival 68 Jazz Legacy Foundation In Photos
Concert 44 Selina Albright Remembering Enthusiastic Return to Stage Nick Colionne 46 Dave Koz Christmas Tour 74 Outpouring of Condolences 24th Annual Show Review
60 Kirk Whalum
Christmas Show in Photos
www.smoothjazzmag.com
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CD Reviews 64 Mike Williams -
15 Mins Of Christmas
CD Releases 67
SmoothJazz
Smooth Jazz Magazine 3751 Motor Ave. Suite #531 Los Angeles, CA 9 0034 info@smoothjazzmag.com
January / February 2022 Art Jackson - Publisher/CEO Dr. Ahava Talon - Editor in Chief Doris Gee - Research Manager Mann - Graphic Artist Manager
Web: www.smoothjazzmag.com My dear Nick, you brought so much joy into all our lives. This is how I will always remember you
Contributing Writers Giget C. Johnson Mina Kim
Atlanta Atlanta
Sheila Ross
Atlanta
Gretchen Law
New York
Contributing Photographers Larry Williams
Atlanta
Mina Kim
Atlanta
LaRonda Garrett Ronald Parker Mann Rhonda Kilpatrick Bobby Roebuck
Dallas Durham Los Angeles San Diego Winston-Salem
No part of this publication ma y be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written consent from the publisher. Copyright @ 2022 Smooth Jazz Magazine All Rights Reserved.
The week of January 01, 2022 Daydreams Randy Scott ft Cindy Bradley
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Crazy Gerald Albright feat. Blake Aaron
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Sundance Boney James
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Nothing Better Jacob Webb ft Jazmin Ghent
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Any Moment Le Sonic ft Robert Lee
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Jazz
Notes
Kirk Whalum Receives the USCT Humanitarian Award
Congratulations to saxophonist/ composer Kirk Whalum for receiving the USCT Humanitarian Award! Presented by The Fuller Story, Kirk has been celebrated as a hero of the community of Franklin, TN! The USCT Humanitarian Award is given to recipients that have shown kindness and bravery, honoring African American heroes of the past and present. It is presented during three days of celebration and education events culminating with an unveiling and dedication of the bronze United States Color Troops Soldier Statue.
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Award-winning host and comedian Trevor Noah of “The Daily Show” returns to host the 64th ANNUAL GRAMMY AWARDS® The Recording Academy and CBS announced that Trevor Noah, Comedy Central's Emmy Awardwinning "The Daily Show" host and comedian, will return to host the 2022 GRAMMYs Awards show, officially known as the 64th GRAMMY Awards. Music's Biggest Night will broadcast live from Crypto.com Arena (currently STAPLES Center) in Los Angeles Mon, Jan. 31, 2022 (8-11:30 p.m. ET live/58:30 p.m. PT live) on the CBS Television Network, and available to stream live and on demand on Paramount+*. Previously, Noah hosted the 63rd GRAMMY Awards, which took place in March of last year. "Trevor was amazing as our host for the 63rd GRAMMY Awards with praise from the music community, music fans and critics," Harvey Mason Jr., CEO of the Recording Academy, said. "We're so excited to welcome Trevor back to the GRAMMYs stage and feel fortunate to once again have him hosting what we believe will be an unforgettable evening." Jan/Feb Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 09
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THE CD
THE HANG
THE TOUR 12| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Feature By: Giget C. Johnson
Photos By: Larry Williams
On November 11, 2021 at Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, I was blessed with the opportunity to sit down face to face with Brian Culbertson while he was on tour for An Evening With Brian Culbertson featuring Marcus Anderson. Having All-Access, after observing sound check and sitting through a meet and greet with some of his VIP fans, I was graced with his presence in his dressing room for a one-on-one interview. Here’s what I learned. Brian Culbertson had only one job in his life that was not related to music – a paper route in the eighth grade, from which he used his pay to purchase his first computer. A hard worker, he’s done everything from playing trombone in a pit orchestra to playing in local plays and musicals. He was a part of the setup crew for a show choir, which he played the trombone in the band for and then broke everything down after the shows. He’s also produced jingles for commercials. Jan/Feb Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 13
Feature From picking up the trombone in fifth grade band class to attending DePaul University on a scholarship, Culbertson has put in the work to be the superstar musician that he is today. It didn’t take him long to realize that he would not learn the business of the music industry at DePaul but he can play multiple instruments. He “dabbles in all instruments” with exception of saxophone. Brian got a record deal with three months to complete an album and became a “quasi-dropout.” He remained enrolled in Jazz Ensemble to keep his scholarship but quit completely after two years of attendance and landing a “real job” in the music industry. We are blessed that the self-described “smartass know it all” believed in himself and his ability to do anything he put his mind to so much that he continues to release album after album. In March 2020 when everything shut down and shows were cancelled, not to be outdone by COVID-19, Brian Culbertson quickly figured out a way to stay connected with his fans. He 14| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Feature started going Live on Facebook on Friday nights on his phone but quickly became frustrated with the limits of the phone. Culbertson researched “How to Stream Like a Pro,” thinking “if they can learn it, why not me?” and invested in equipment to include eight cameras, tons of lighting, and new computers to give the fans a quality connection. In May 2020, with a name coined by his wife, “The Hang” was formally launched with a new logo and design graphics in place. “The Hang” still occurs on Friday evenings at 5 p.m. PT / 8 p.m ET on Facebook Live and later is uploaded to YouTube. It is free to everyone. Fans can engage in a live chat. There are also six paid levels of membership of “The Hang Club” that offer a variety of VIP perks. Out of “The Hang,” “The Trilogy” was born. Jan/Feb Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 15
Feature SoundCheck
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Feature “The Trilogy” is a set of three albums with 30 original songs, all written by Culbertson. While a lot of other artists collaborated with others, virtually and otherwise, during the pandemic, Culbertson just hung out at home with his wife. “I wanted it to sound like it’s just me, by myself.” The gift of “The Trilogy” is all Brian Culbertson. “The Trilogy: Part 1 – Red” was released on September 24, 2021. “Red” is an intimate, passion themed set, partly inspired by the intimate hang with fans.
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Feature “The Trilogy: Part 2 – Blue” is expected to be released January 14, 2022. Blue reflects a melancholy tone as it’s to be released during the winter months. It will help push through the gloom of winter but also has some tearjerking tracks as well. Particularly “Fallen” still gets to Culbertson. “Blue” causes introspective thoughts about life.
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Feature “The Trilogy: Part 3 – White” is expected to be released in the Spring on May 6, 2022, after the end of winter’s dismal days. “White” should bring hope, “like a release of the doves.” “White” is full of uplifting music. The change of theme of The Trilogy is driven by the seasons and all that comes along with each. “Almost like a long-term relationship, the beginning, the middle, then the happily ever after. Fall before the holidays is full of passion. Then there’s the melancholy of winter, when it’s cold and people get depressed. This music will help to get through. And then the joy of spring.” “It started out as me just writing songs, not a trilogy. As I was writing I noticed three distinct sonic landscapes that all fit together. But early on I noticed three categories of emotions that I was getting – passion, melancholy and hope. The colors of red, blue and white went naturally with those emotions.” “The Trilogy reflects deeper emotions than I’ve ever experienced.” “We’ve heard that art is a reflection of the times. It really is.” 20| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Feature Brian Culbertson is the King of making passionate music. “The Trilogy: Part 1- Red” should be flashing like a warning sign that we should listen with caution. It is not a CD that you want to listen to in the morning if you don’t have time to stay in bed. There is almost no way out once you start to listen. You just gotta go through it. But do it in the evening when you have lots of energy to exercise the passion that will flow therefrom. Start early. Stay late. Track 1: “Feel the Love” – What a way to open the album. It makes you sing a song but there are no lyrics. Every note is felt deeply within. Track 2: “Just Let Go” – You might as well just let go because you’re on song number two and already you’re sucked in. Before you get halfway through the song you’re ready to follow the instructions given on Track 3 to come on over. Track 3: “Come On Over” – You fell for it. Oops! It’s way too late now. Go back to track 2 and just let go! Follow the path to track 4 Infatuation. Track 4: “Infatuation” – Jan/Feb
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Feature Stops you in your tracks and you’re all in now. Enjoy the ride for there’s no way out until it is all over. Ooh! You’re in for a treat that will last deep in the night as Track 5 is titled. Track 5: “Deep in the Night” – You’re still here. Relax; you’ll be here deep in the night. Did you bring your sleepers? You’ve been lulled to a sweet nap. Track 6: “Whispers” – “Wake up.” “Another round?” speaks soft notes of ecstasy. Track 7: “Eyes Closed” – There is no need to open your eyes for this one. Yeah, it’s like that. You can keep your eyes closed. This is perfect for a lazy lay. Track 8: “Lost In You” – Didn’t open your eyes yet? Awaken to find that you’re in unknown territory. “Lost In You” gives an outer-body experience, some drive you crazy, kind of out of this world experience. Track 9: “One More Kiss” – As you come back to your senses, being released from hypnosis of ecstasy, slowly you’re pulled in for just one more kiss. It doesn’t stop there. Track 10: “Dreamstate” – Aaaahhh!!!! You’re blissfully in a dream-state. Rest now, for morning is upon you. Brian Culbertson is the master of seductive music. He’s certain to lead even a novice into the land of ecstasy. Put “The Trilogy: Red” on and let it play. Jump on the ride and don’t try to exit until it is all over. 22| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Feature An Evening with Brian Culberston featuring Marcus Anderson
If you’ve never seen Brian Culbertson live then you’re missing a treat. He’s like a Mad Scientist on the keyboards but in a good way. Happy to be back on tour, he puts on a show, plays the keyboards backwards with his back to the audience, and rocks the house with tracks like “Been Around the World”, “On My Mind”, “More than Thankful”, “Hollywood Swinging”, “Play that Funky Music”, “Secret Garden” and others. “Colors of Love”, of which he states “I like to perform that one”, brought the crowd to their feet with a roaring applause. From dancing on your feet to swaying to love songs in your seat, the audience experiences Brian Culbertson doing what Brian Culbertson does. The person you see on stage is who he is. “We’re not met with his persona, but for the show because you gotta hype it up.” At home he is “just a more chilled version.” 24| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Feature Asked whom, dead or alive, he’d like to perform with and without hesitation, he replied “It would’ve been great to do something with Miles. I listen to Miles all of the time.” Brian Culbertson’s fingertips drip musical magic. You can catch the drip in Year 2022 in January in Miami, in April in Northeastern United States, in June in Napa Valley. See his website www.brianculbertson.com for other dates.
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“Fire and Desire.” These are the hallmarks of youth well lived and also the name of Vincent Ingala’s newest, 2021 album - his personal pandemic release. Not only do we witness once again that good art can come from adversity and relative isolation, we also learn that good people raise interesting people who can become dynamic artists. “The pandemic was a shock at first. But then I had nothing but time.” And time for an artist is potentially magical. “During Covid l9 I was exploding with ideas and a renewed sense of energy. That was the best part of the lockdown.” I had a chance to interview Vincent who was as lively and easy on the ear as is his music. He was born and raised in a small town in Connecticut. His father and uncle ran a traveling lip sync gig and had a significant local following. His grandmother bought him a drum set for his 4th Christmas and that was that — his musical career took off in that one loving gesture that good and wise grandmothers are well known for. “From then on, I couldn’t get enough of music.” 30| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Feature “I leave it up to the listener to decide what the music means to them and what the titles are all about. But for me? I have the Fire to make music. And I have the Desire to share it. It’s not complicated.” VINCENT INGALA In the fifth grade he picked up the sax. And he learned guitar. He provides the backup behind many if not all of his songs to date being proficient in multiple instruments. In high school he became a one man show, traveling around the state performing. His father did the sound. His whole family went on the local circuit with him demonstrating this intense family support. “This is how I developed my playing chops.” Talking to Vincent was kind of like listening to his music. It felt natural, comfortable and it just flowed. At the same time I was talking to a professional who knows himself very well and who is totally dedicated to his muse, and to a philosophy. His sublime talent, discipline and accessible style have led him to opportunities like touring with the master Dave Koz. He described this experience as a, “master class every night, an unreal experience,” he said. “Dave always puts on a fabulous show and he gives off a vibe of great camaraderie. And I got to work with Mindy Abair and Kirk Whalum. We’ll be touring together when things open up.” I asked Vincent about the title of his new album. “I leave it up to the listener to decide what the music means to them and what the titles are all about. But for me? I have the Fire to make music. And I have the Desire to share it. It’s not complicated.” Jan/Feb Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 31
Feature And his goal is not to complicate his music as he explained. “I try to make it melodic. Easy to hum back. The melody is the hook — the vibe. My goal is to develop the groove.” His song, “On The Move,” he described as a, four on the floor dance vibe, a Studio 54 style. When I listen to it I experience myself being moved and compelled into harmonious action — held in the vibe and carried along with it. His song, “Riding The Wave,” I also experience literally. I feel like I’m on that wave when I listen to it. His last six albums have generated 18 Top Ten Smooth Jazz radio singles and 10 #1 radio hits. “It’s up to the listener to decide where the song takes them. It’s the listener’s sound track.” Which takes me to a powerhouse song on this album, “Could This Be Real?” And once again the music is its own answer and the answer is, Yes! This man is so grounded and is a philosopher of his own truth which is exemplified through his clean, melodic sounds and also through his directness - that hometown belief in his own reality and his larger appreciation for the world around him and the people in it. You unlock your own door. The trip is yours if you want to take it. His music is a vehicle. Could This Be Real is euphoric. 32| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Feature And what does it take for a young artist to achieve success? He says it takes, “versatility and openmindedness. There are no rule books and everyone takes a different path.” He does suggest learning to play more than one instrument and developing an ear for all kinds of music. “Listen to everything and absorb it all. It’s all the same at the end of the day.” Wow! Thanks for that, Vincent. So true. “Let the music be a soundtrack for you. Your fire and desire, It’s a never ending circle of creativeness and passion. We can always turn to music. No one can take that way from us.”
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Feature By: Giget C. Johnson For many years, I have gifted myself tickets to see the Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour. This year I got the ultimate gift of being able to interview Dave Koz. Year 2021 marks the 24th Annual Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour. Year 2020 was virtual and live streamed due to the Covid pandemic, but otherwise Dave Koz and his friends have blessed us with perfect holiday music for many years. Like many artists returning to the road, Dave Koz is excited to say the least. “It’s a miracle that we’re able to pull this off, even with Covid. It shows how important music is to people, especially during the holidays.” Dave Koz& Friends Christmas Tour opens in Atlanta, Georgia on November 26, 2021. “There are cities that we go to every single year. Atlanta is one of those places. It’s usually during the first week of the tour. This is the first time we are starting in Atlanta. The Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre is the perfect venue and the Atlanta, Georgia audience is so keyed up. That’s one of the things that’s really amazing about this tour.” “Touring at Christmas time, being on the road during the holiday with around 25 shows in about 30 days, with two buses, a semi-truck, and about 22 people, I’d have it no other way.” “It’s such a beautiful thing, night after night, to get on the stage and to see all of the people coming to the show with open arms, open ears and open hearts, ready to enjoy the music of the season. I’m sure I don’t have to tell Jan/Feb
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Feature how important music is for setting the tone for the holiday.” In describing the selection of artists to join him on the tour, Dave Koz, with a smile that could be heard in his voice, said “This year, in particular, I wanted to surround myself, selfishly, if you will, with MY BEST FRIENDS, and it just so happens that my best friends are also some of the greatest musicians in the world. So it worked out for my benefit this time.” [You’d have to hear the excitement in his voice when he said “WITH MY BEST FRIENDS.” Words aren’t able to express the tone on paper. Let’s face it, it’s priceless to have friends who support us. Got friends like Dave Koz? No? Get some new friends!] Then he sets out the starstudded lineup. JONATHAN BUTLER, or J.B. as he called him. “We’ve done so many tours together. He’s my brother from another mother. One of my most favorite people in the whole-wide-world. I always want to be right next to him at Christmas time. It just feels perfect.” RICK BRAUN is “also one of my dearest friends. The way he plays trumpet, especially during the holidays, feels so right.” 38| SmoothJazz Magazine
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“And for the first time ever we get RICHARD ELLIOT, on his first ever Christmas tour, joining us. Richard is one of my favorite saxophone players and also one of my favorite humans on the planet. I’m really excited that this will be his first Christmas tour, which he’ll do great. It doesn’t matter what song he’s playing, people just fall in love with that man.” Having interviewed Richard Elliot earlier in the year, I chimed in about how kind and gentle he is, to which Dave Koz responded “gentle until he gets behind a tenor saxophone, then he’s like a lion. The worst place to be in a show is following Richard Elliot.” “I love the man. He’s an incredible artist. Getting him to play some holiday songs will bring a completely new energy to our show.” The show will introduce REBECCA JADE, described as “a chameleon” giving us vibes of “Billie Holiday, Chaka Khan, and Aretha Franklin” in another form, with “an incredible range of emotion that she can create with her voice.” Her showstopper will be a duet with Jonathan Butler “Mary Did You Know.” They Jan/Feb
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Feature are excited to perform in person as they did for the live stream last year. When speaking of how Jonathan Butler appears to have a direct connection to “The Spirit,” Dave Koz said “the thing that’s so great is it’s exciting to be on stage but also terrifying because he’s so in the moment, impulsive, reacting to the spirit within him. It’s exhilarating and terrifying because you don’t know what he’s going do.” In 2019 Dave Koz released his seventh holiday album. Asked how you create new versions of songs and Dave responded “There are certain classics that you can’t improve upon. The idea is that you create new, novel ways of recording. We have the “Great Song Book.” The melodies and lyrics are the meat on the bones that lend themselves to artistic treatment based on however you want to come to the song. The artist decides what arrangements are uniquely us. It allows freedom, like a blank canvas using the same paints to paint different pictures. It’s endlessly inspiring and incredibly fun.” “If you’re a vocalist, you can emote the lyrics. As a musician, the melody is all you got. You have to create the emotion.” In discussing the 2019 holiday release “Gifts of the Season,” we talked about music being consumed in different ways with streaming services. “It works better for artists to have physical items sold.” “More people listen to music because of streaming. Eventually it’ll catch up so artists can do well with their work.” 40| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Feature “At Christmas time, my streaming numbers shoot up almost double during the holidays.” “Musical Comfort Food.” My household’s favorite Christmas CD is the 2014 release of Dave Koz & Friends 25th of December. It kicks off the holiday season with the lighting of the Christmas tree. Since 2014, every morning during the holiday season, the tree is plugged in, the CD turned on quietly, and our home awakens to the peacefulness and joy of the season. I mentioned how my 21 year old son called asking for the name of the CD while away at college. It really is a comforting CD. “That made my week. Tell your son thank you for spreading the news to his young friends.” 25th of December is also one of Dave Koz’s favorites because he got the chance to work with so many of his favorite artists such as Johnny Mathis, Gloria Estefan, Kenny G, and Stevie Wonder. It was produced by Rickey Minor. “There are so many memories. Albums are a chapter of life.” “When I have a chance to go back and listen to them, it places me immediately in the moment.” Dave Koz’s favorite holiday song to perform is “White Christmas.” “There’s something so nostalgic about the melody. I lose myself in it.” Jan/Feb
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Feature Asked who he’d most like to perform with, and he got clarification. “If I’m understanding correctly, you’re asking if in a fantasy world, which artist, dead or alive, I’d most like to collaborate with?” “In my Christmas voice, I really love Nat King Cole, but at Christmas I want to hear Frank Sinatra. It’s my musical nirvana, where I am the happiest.” He credits his parents for playing Frank Sinatra in his childhood home. Go to the store, or if you’re at a concert, and physically buy a CD. It helps the artist’s bottom line. The 2019 “Gifts of the Season” is the most recent holiday release but any of the seven holiday albums will set the tone for a peaceful and joyful holiday season. 42| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Concert By: Mina Kim
If you haven't heard, the world has reopened and with it, the return of live music. We all knew it was temporary -- this, "lock yourself away from your neighbors, friends and family, and hunker down" hoping, praying for any sign that this nightmare was beginning to ebb. And as a collective, we continue to err on the side of caution, however I can't help but embrace this return to normalcy where the familiar melodies from Our favorite artists are quickly rising above The oppressive weight of the pandemic and bringing with it a celebratory atmosphere of freedom. One artist, in particular, is once again making the rounds and dazzling the multitudes eager to see her perform: Ms. Selina Albright. I've been following Selina for many years, and from an enthusiast's perspective I'm simply awestruck with the depth of her musical evolution. If you're familiar with “Search My Name” from her Conversations album you'll have a better understanding of this evolution. However, to see it play out, on stage, right in front of you, is nothing short of spectacular. Selina delivered just such a performance at the Punta Gorda Wine and Jazz festival in Florida (November 20th), her 44| SmoothJazz Magazine
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Concert first return concert since the onset of the pandemic. The range of her powerhouse vocals roused the masses from an overly polite attendance to an enthusiastic audience eager to be indulged and unapologetically asking for more. And more is what they got, including Selina's newest release: “Jenny” (Perfect Little Rows).
As Selina will tell you she draws inspiration from personal experiences in writing her own songs. Jenny is particularly striking with it's old school R&B vibe and a storytelling quality reminiscent of Roberta Flack and Gladys Knight. In classic style she tells the listener that while closing the door on unhealthy relationships can be difficult, sometimes it's the only way to free oneself from toxic situations even if Jenny is within you. We have only scratched the surface of what's in store for us from Selina Albright. And I, for one, can hardly wait to see which door she kicks open next. Jan/Feb Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 45
Concert Photos By: Larry Williams
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Concert By: Sheila E. Ross
Dave Koz & Friends jazzed-in “tidings of comfort and joy” for a large crowd at the Cobb Energy Performing Arts Centre in Atlanta Friday evening. For this 24th annual show, the Grammy nominated Koz offers much more than “tidings of comfort and joy.” He showcases a hot-tight ‘brass-pack’ that includes himself on both tenor and soprano saxophones, Grammy nominated American saxophonist, Richard Elliot on tenor sax and the legendary trumpeter, composer and producer, Rick Braun on trumpet. Koz over-delights this year in his selection of lead vocals. All the way from South Africa, he brings us, “his brother,” Sarie Award winner, singer, song writer and guitarist, Jonathan Butler and new to his team this year, the lovely west coast petal-soft accomJan/ Feb Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 47
Concert plished singer and songwriter, Ms. Rebecca Jade. In the spirit of Christmas, Koz stages this powerful five-member group to the audience and achieves top-notch performances of individualism on one accord; all five jazzed up in voice and play to sooth the soul. It’s Christmas classics, its fun, it’s love, it’s spiritual as the group members not only bring the melodies we are so familiar with, in addition, they each share their own individual sound! This is a magical treat! With songs like “Sleigh Ride,” “Santa Claus is Coming to Town,” “What Christmas Means to Me,” the audience is energized, mesmerized and jazzed-up all at the same time. With “Oh Come All Ye Faithfull,” Jade shares her vocals angelic-like, and joined by Koz on sax. Her smooth sound gracefully hits every note in shear perfection. As Koz joins her on sax allowing for shift and melody changes – it’s that dramatic sound of jazz that sooths the soul. Christmas music has never been more fun when Butler joins Jade on vocals here along with his acoustic guitar and our “Newborn King” has never been lifted-up so high! On “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” and “What Christmas Means to Me” Jade
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delivers here on vocals and Butler’s vocal sounds comes through crystal-clear accompanied by his guitar. The brass-pack (Braun, Elliot & Koz) joins this duo and continually serve as the centerpiece for these performances. Koz takes his time on “White Christmas” and Elliot soon joins him on “Let it Snow.” The two on stage form a perfect union for the audience. Braun graces us with his towering arched stance and skilled-play on “Little Drummer Boy.” Koz joins and collaborates with Braun. On “Mary did you Know,” Jade teams with Butler, a beautiful vocal duo as Butler is flawless on guitar and vocals and Jade’s voice ushers in a spiritual tone. On solo, Butler takes his time on the “O Holy Night” classic with impeccable vocals, dramatic, and takes us to another time and place in our seats. With “Silent Night,” Elliot on solo spotlight plays so sweetly and compassionately and injects a jazziness that pleases the gut. His skilled-play causes one to want to through down the mike before he even finishes the classic! All a sparkle and glitter, Koz dances to and plays Sam Elwitt’s “Eight Candles” for the Hanukah celebration to please four respondent guests in the audience. Elliott joins him on stage on tenor sax. This dynamic brass-pack of three join with Butler and Jade, strong on lead Jan/Feb Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 49
Concert harmonious vocals and an acoustic guitar culminate the show with Kenny Loggin’s, “Celebrate Me Home,” a perfect selection.
Credits go out to Randy Jacobs (guitar), musical director for this show, Carnell Harrell on keyboard, Jay Williams on drums and Nathaniel Kearney, Jr. on bass.
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Concert Photos By: Bobby Roebuck
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CD Reviews By: Giget C. Johnson “15 Mins of Xmas” by Mike Williams on Sax Holiday EP Set for release on December 10, 2021, this holiday EP is selfdescribed as a “fun Holiday Project that explores moving and emotional pieces, with a nice splash of holiday cheer”. It is just that. Opening with “Mary Did You Know”, the EP quickly let me know that while the title uses” X” in place of “Christ” that Christ is very much a part of this EP and very much a part of Christmas. It took me straight to the King! I felt it deeply in my chest. As the mother of one son, the ultimate Boy Mom, I was brought to tears thinking of how Mary felt to know that her only child would be sacrificed, but that he would save the world. I found myself sitting in my writing nook with tears in my eyes. It just hit different to think of this through a 64| SmoothJazz Magazine
mother’s eyes. I’ve heard the song for years with others singing the lyrics, but having the lyrics played by saxophone, I was made to feel every note of the song even more deeply. Mike Williams on Sax takes you to church, leads you to the alter, helps you to your knees and leaves you there with a pair of sweaty eyes. The collection plate should be passed around and the benediction given. This emotion evoking rendition is a true reminder that Jesus is in fact the reason for the season. On “Jolly Old St. Nicholas / Carol of the Bells”, Mike Williams on Sax is a show off – of his talent.
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CD Reviews In the beginning of this song, he articulates the notes in a basic foundational way, making you think he’s an amateur artist then he shows all the way out! Mid-way through he takes the spotlight to exhibit his true talent. Ain’t nothing amateur about this rendition. It closes out back to the basics, like a true student of music would do. Go on Mike!!! “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas”, the third song on this Holiday EP, is a classic rendition with the perfect twist. He makes it his own, just like Dave Koz said about artists making classic holiday songs their own by what they bring to the song. It’s how an artist is able to make holiday album after holiday album with some of the same songs. This version is perfect for a holiday date night at a really fancy supper club with live music or a holiday party or a night at home in front of the fireplace. It makes me want to draw close to my love, enjoying an intimate conversation with a nice glass of wine. That last note takes us out! “15 Mins of Xmas” adds perfectly to your holiday playlist. Round of applause. Standing ovation! Bravo, Mike Williams on Sax! Bravo!
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Smooth
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New CD Releases 2022
Nicholas Payton “Smoke Sessions Remixed” 03.11.22 BUY
Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio “Cold As Weiss” 02.11.22 BUY
Jan/Feb
Rick Braun “Rick Braun” 02.11.22 BUY
Ron Jackson “Standards and My Songs” 02.11.22 BUY
Sting “The Bridge” 11.21.21 BUY
Kenny G “New Standard” 10.22.21 BUY
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Festival
Photos By: Ronald Parker
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Remembering With an outpouring of condolences the Smooth VP promotion and A&R community of fellow artists at Trippin 'N' Rhythm fans and industry insiders gives their heartfelt love and fond memories on New Years day upon hearing the sad news of his passing. I am completely destroyed this morning at the passing of my brother and best friend Nick Colionne. Easily one of the best human beings on the planet and a one who was loved by anybody who came into his orbit. We just spoke recently about our collective excitement for his new recording and as he always did he told me he loved me at the end of each call. God how I loved this man. Going to take some time to process this one. I feel your spirit with me today Nick and I know you would want all of us to be happy and carry on your tradition of kindness, love and service. You were always the one who reached down and helped pull us all up and we need that more than ever right now. A life well lived my friend. Rest well. I’m numb and saddened about the passing of Nick Colionne. He was a very dear friend to me and my family. We shared the stage on so many occasions across decades. We lost a great man today. This hurts.
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Remembering
I remember once at the Soiled Dove in Denver during the middle of the first song of his show, one of Nick's guitar strings broke. Without missing a beat he instructed his band to entertain the crowd while he went into the green room to cleaned things up a bit. He quickly took back the stage and continued with the show. To make up for the this inconvenience Nick went on to sing one of my favorite songs: Rainy Night In Georgia. To this day when I hear that song I never fail to recall Nick's velvety rich vocals. Nick Colionne you will be forever missed. Rest in Peace.
Well, 2022 is not starting out so good, we just got the news that our beloved Nick Colionne passed away today. Words can't express the heartache that many of us are trying to process at this moment. Not only was he the consummate showman, but even more so he was a beautiful human being. Always kind, very witty and a mentor to many. Brother Nick, or "Uncle Nick" as we all affectionately called him, you will be missed, but the memories will certainly last a lifetime WE LOVE YOU!!
I have absolutely no words to describe the loss of my friend Nick. I’ve never met anyone like him..warm, funny, caring, engaging, talented, the list goes on. We’ve lost a great talent, and an even greater human. Jan/Feb
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Remembering
RIH Nick, one of the kindest and warmest people you’ll ever meet, will always appreciate your friendship.
I'm devastated by the passing of Nick Colionne. He literally gave me my break on the big stage, when nobody gave me a chance. I will always be grateful for our friendship over the years, Although we have done many shows together, he was always positive & full of jokes. he was loved by everyone, and will forever be missed RIP.
Incredibly sad that we lost Nick Colionne this morning! We all have the same experience with him, always fun and warm on and off stage! I don’t recall when we first met but it was many moons ago ..just look at that picture . This year we got to see each other many times both on the road and virtually as he was a guest multiple times on my live-stream series, I will miss you so my brother ❤ RIP 76| SmoothJazz Magazine
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