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“Thank You Willie” evokes the essence of Willie’s upbeat, joyful spirit with a little bit of spicy Latin salsa; and anyone who knew Willie Payne knew he loved to dance!
4 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS
Nestor Torres is the epitome of artistry and professional mastery. Thank You Maestro for your gift to the Payne family and the music-loving world! We hope you will join us in sharing this lovely piece of musical art with your family and friends by downloading your copy Thanktoday!youfor your continued support of live music and our business!
We at Payne Pest Management are so proud and honored to share the news of the release of a very special single by Latin Grammy Award-winning flautist Nestor Torres dedicated to our co-founder and former CEO Willie Payne Jr., called “Thank You Willie.”
Payne Pest Management has supported live music and the smooth jazz genre through its sponsorship of festivals, community activities, charities and other events. Willie was always the life of the party at these events and Nestor has certainly captured Willie in his latest single.
“Willie was a friend of all us artists, a lover of life and music, a loving and devoted husband and family man, and a fighter for what was right,” said Nestor. “His presence and example are, and will always be, with many and all those who had the privilege of knowing him.”
MARCH/APRIL 2022 | 5 “ S e e i n g T h e W o r l d T o g e t h e r T h r o u g h M u s i c ” DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS AT SEA S e e y o u o n t h e 2 0 2 S2 e e y o u o n t h e 2 0 2 2 D a v e K o z C r u i s De a v e K o z C r u i s e 2 0 2 3 D a v e K o z C r u i s 2e 0 2 3 D a v e K o z C r u i s e
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The popular saxophonist continues making music he personally loves. He can’t wait to share songs from his latest CD with his fans live, as he hits the festival circuit beginning in April. Calendar of smooth jazz events
6 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS Publisher and Managing Editor Melanie Maxwell Operations & Distribution Manager Craig Collier Copy Editors JoAnn Armke PaulaBarbaraFitzgeraldKnoxBradSondak Contributors KenDarcyCashmiraCapobiancoPeters Graphic Design Gina Mancini Contributing Photographers Brandon Albright, Snowdesert Productions Michael Becker Describe The Fauna Erin Blair Studio Ken Fong Bobby Guillard Mélisa Miranda Raj TracyDanielNaikRayD.Spraggins Smooth Jazz News 5519 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., #134 San Diego, CA www.smoothjazznews.comsmoothjazznews@aol.com858-541-191992117 As we ease back into post-pandemic life, we will publish five issues of Smooth Jazz News in 2022: March-April, May-June, July, August-September and October-November-December. We plan to resume our standard seven-issue publication schedule in 2023. The publisher assumes no responsibility for claims or actions of its advertisers. Opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the publisher, staff or advertisers. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written permission from the publisher. ©2022, Smooth Jazz News | All rights reserved Smooth-Jazz @SmoothJazzNewsNews/123513291125001 The 3rd Annual Dymally International Jazz & Arts Festival returns to the Dignity Health Sports Park in Carson, California, on April 30. Lineup to be announced soon, so visit www.rainbowpromotions.com for updates. For more information on this, and other events, check out our calendar section on page 24. 8 Notes from the Publisher Tragedy strikes DW3, smooth jazz community rallies 10 31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest Ten days of music, education, collaboration and inspiration in Pennsylvania 13 DISCover New Music What’s new and hot! 14 23rd Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival A jewel of a festival on the white sands of the Florida Panhandle with stellar headliners and up-and-coming talent, too 17 Receive FREE CD-withsubscription offer When you subscribe to Smooth Jazz News at the Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest in Reading, Pennsylvania, or the Seabreeze Jazz Festival in Panama City Beach, Florida 17 Smooth Jazz News home delivery Subscribe today: Online, by mail, over the phone or, in April, at our booth during the Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest or Seabreeze Jazz Festival 18
Concerts, festivals, cruises and brunches 32 Four80East The Canadian duo brings their breezy vibe to upcoming festivals in the USA Smooth Jazz News merchandise Get fashion-ready for festival season with our apparel: classic jazz shirts, fleece jackets, golf shirts, T-shirts, tank tops and hats review Double Life of Bob Dylan: A Restless, Hungry Feeling, 1941-1966” Cashmira’s Starguide March-April
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MARCH/APRIL 2022 | 7 Learn More & Join Today Luxury Wines Crafted Exclusively For Members MINDI ABAIR FOREVER Mindi’s First Solo Release Of New Music Since 2014, A Collection Of Very Personal Songs Marking A Return To Her Contemporary Jazz Roots NEW ALBUM RELEASE Buy A Signed CD & Tickets To Her 2022 Wine + Jazz Tour: WWW.MINDIABAIR.COM SPECIAL APPEARANCES BY STEVE PERRY, RICK BRAUN, KENNY WAYNE SHEPHERD, RAUL MALO AND ERIC BAZILIAN (OF THE HOOTERS) Original Musically Inspired Label Artwork Curated & Paired Music Playlists For Each Wine Travel The World With Us On Our Mindi Abair’s Wine + Jazz Adventures Pre-Show Wine Tastings
DW3: Eric Mondragon, Damon Reel and Billy Mondragon
continued on page 36
If you’ve celebrated a birthday, anniversary, retirement or any other special occasion, most likely you’ve done it wherever DW3 is performing. And, often that’s at Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment in Seal Beach, California. The ultimate party band is so full of soul that between sips of champagne and bites of Parmesancrusted sea bass, brunch audiences can’t help but spring out of their seats and onto their feet to dance, or sing along to R&B classics, Butwayorgroupslineset,compositions.favoritescontemporaryandtheircoolBytheendoftheirfirstthere’susuallyacongaaroundtheloungeorElectric-slidingCupidShufflingtheirthroughthecrowd.ifyou’renotwithindriving distance of this hot spot, or any of the other Southern California venues that they pack to capacity at each performance, perhaps you fell in love with them on one of the jazz-themed cruises. That’s where I first heard them nearly 20 years ago. Sadly, the founding members are currently enduring some tragicEriccircumstances.Mondragon,the band’s keyboardist, suffered a heart attack while performing at Spaghettini on New Year’s Eve. “Eric was half way through the first set when it happened,” said Cary Hardwick, co-owner of Spaghettini. “He wanted to finish the set, and I told him, ‘No, you’re going to the hospital.’ And, I had Q [entertainment director John Quigley] drive him to Los Alamitos Medical Center.”
Although Eric, who is the sole provider for his wife and three children, is recovering, his ability to perform is curtailed for the foreseeable future. Clearly, this will make it very difficult to earn his typical income. If that wasn’t bad enough, his brother, vocalist Billy Mondragon, contracted COVID-19 during Christmas, which put him in the hospital for two weeks, part of that time in the intensive care unit. The illness developed into double pneumonia, from which he is currently struggling to recover. It’s an extremely difficult situation for a singer that has dramatically hindered his ability to perform. As if things couldn’t get any worse, Billy’s wife, Irma, who also contracted COVID-19, has been hospitalized in ICU on a ventilator for more than two months. Billy and his children have not been able to visit her, and their communication with her has beenWhilelimited.dealing with double pneumonia, Billy is now his family’s only breadwinner, as Irma obviously is unable to work at her longtime job as an executive assistant with the Los Angeles Firemen’s Relief Association. The couple, who have been together for 30 years, married for 25, have two children, including a 19-year-old son who is autistic. And, the likelihood of Irma’s survival is a daily topic. Unbeknownst to Hardwick and his Spaghettini co-owner Laurie Sisneros, all of this was occurring while Billy continued performing most of his gigs.
StudioBlairErinPhoto:
8 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS DW3 is in a jam, and not the fun kind they are known for. So, I’m dedicating this column to lend my support to them.
Forty-nine-year-old Eric said: “It was New Year’s Eve. That’s a big night, and I didn’t want to disappoint anyone. I knew something was wrong, but I wanted to finish both shows, then I’d go to the hospital. But I left during the first set. They said I had a heart attack and put two stents in me.”
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Warm vibes emanate from the top, starting with the festival’s general manager, John Ernesto. He’s friends with many attendees and even closer to most of the artists and musicians. So, when any member of the Berks family passes away, Ernesto never forgets them. For example, each year since Chuck Loeb’s passing in 2017, Ernesto has produced the Chuck Loeb Memorial All-Star Jazz Jam to honor the multi-Grammy-nominated guitarist.
“Chuck meant so much to the fest and to me personally,” Ernesto said.
By Melanie Maxwell
JazzBerksBoscov’sFest Featured Festival
Reading, Pennsylvania, April 1-10
Genre enthusiasts nationwide flock to the fest not only for the music, but to enjoy the sense of camaraderie among the artists, musicians, community and one another. It feels like a neighborly block party or a fun family reunion … but with the best entertainment.
Sadly, this year, he’s added another guitarist to that roster. Nick Colionne, who performed often at the Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest and was scheduled for this year’s lineup, passed away unexpectedly on New Year’s Day.
“We enjoyed creating special, unique performances for the fest. At the top of a long list of such shows is the Wes Montgomery Tribute we produced in 2006 that featured Chuck and guitarists Pat Martino, Larry Carlton, Earl Klugh, Russell Malone, Paul Jackson Jr. and Jimmy Bruno. It was an amazing concert. An amazing night. A musical memory to cherish.”
The Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest is unique in so many ways. It’s a 10-day, all-indoor, music and educational extravaganza at various venues throughout Berks County, Pennsylvania.
The locale, 70 miles north of Philadelphia, is known for railroads, trains, bridges, rich farmland, a thriving arts community and the birthplace of American pioneer and frontiersman Daniel Boone. Also, it’s less than an hour’s drive to the Amish Country and Hershey’s Chocolate World. However, thanks to the Berks Arts organization, it has also become a can’t-miss festival destination to kick off each smooth jazz year.
Nico!” with Maysa, Kim Waters, Gerald Veasley, Brian Simpson and Jackiem Joyner, which is scheduled for April 10, at the DoubleTree by Hilton Reading. The DoubleTree by Hilton Reading and the Scottish Rite Cathedral are venues where many of the main concerts happen.
“Losing Nick Colionne last month was a devastating loss for the contemporary jazz world,” Ernesto said during an interview in early February. “Nick was a very special person. He made every fan feel like they were his most important fan. He loved the Berks Jazz Fest. And the fest loved him. It is only fitting that we will honor Nick’s memory at theOnefest.”ofthe tributes will be included during the 31st Anniversary Celebration Concert featuring Eric Marienthal, Rick Braun, Keiko Matsui and more on April 8, at the Scottish Rite Cathedral. The other is a brunch concert, “Nick Colionne’s Friends: A Salute to Farms and bridges are common sights in Berks County, Pennsylvania
Behind the scenes, Berks Arts, the nonprofit organization that presents the festival, helps provide the budget, staff and volunteers for Ernesto to execute this program.
Other headlining shows, including “A Night with Brian Culbertson featuring Marcus Anderson,” “Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis” and Gregory Porter, will be held a few blocks away from the DoubleTree at the Santander Performing Arts Center.
“Each year, I work closely with the Berks Arts team, Justin Heimbecker, executive director, and staff members Gary Spencer and Mamie Covell, to develop a vision, a plan for the fest,” Ernesto explained. continued on page 12
RICK BRAUN BONEY JAMES BRIAN CULBERTSON MARCUS ANDERSON BRIAN SIMPSONdB:otohPranonAlbright,Snowdesert Productions GERALD ALBRIGHT DthPoo:anielRay iD:thPooescrbeTheFauna MINDI ABAIR MthPoo:ichaelBecker BthPoo:obbyGuillard MthPoo:élisaMiranda VINCENT INGALA BthPoo:obbyGuillardhPoto:RajNaik
Festivalgoers often shuffle between three or more venues in one day, most of which are near one another. Organizing, booking, scheduling and staging an event such as this—with more than 100 acts, plus educational programs, merchandise, an auction and art exhibit—requires an enormous amount of time, labor and good relationships. Imagine the logistics of producing all of these shows at more than a dozen venues, including bars, clubs, restaurants, churches, community centers and a college. Or the pressure of creating entertainment to wow the approximate 35,000 fans in attendance each year.
There will be two tribute shows to honor the legacy of Nick Colionne, who sadly passed away this year
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Afternoon Jazz Party hosted by Al “DJ Act” Taylor featuring performance by Tony Exum Jr. 3:30 p.m. DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, Cheers Lounge David Sanborn and Friends featuring special guests Randy Brecker, Joey DeFrancesco and Billy Kilson 6 p.m. Scottish Rite Cathedral Sunday, April 10 A Contemporary Sax Retrospective: Inspirations! featuring Everette Harp and Andy Snitzer 3 p.m. Miller Center for the Arts, Reading Area Community College 31st Anniversary Finale featuring Rick Braun and Gerald Albright with special guest Jeff Lorber 6 p.m. Scottish Rite Cathedral continued from page 11
“The Berks Jazz Fest is a unique experience that brings together fans and artists from all over the country who get to hang out for 10 days in a friendly, familylike atmosphere. We’ve been fortunate to create that for them,” Ernesto said. “It’s also a collaboration of the arts community, the business community, the hotel community and, most importantly, the volunteer community.
Gregg Karukas’ Hammond B3 Organ Group featuring Brad Collins, Deren Blessman and The Berks Horns 4:30 p.m.
Friday, April 8 31st Anniversary Celebration Concert featuring Eric Marienthal, Rick Braun, Keiko Matsui, Everette Harp, Brian Bromberg, Adam Hawley, Lindsey Webster, The Berks Horns, featuring a Tribute to Nick Colionne 6 p.m. Scottish Rite Cathedral Boney James 9:30 p.m. DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, Grand Ballroom
Gerald Veasley’s Jam with Eric Darius, Jeff Kashiwa, Brian Bromberg, JJ Sansaverino, Bobby Lyle, Andrew Neu, Rob DeBoer, Tony Grace, Karen Briggs, Donald Robinson, Richard Waller and more 11:30 p.m.
Saturday, April 2 Najee with special guests Bobby Lyle and Chris Walker 1 p.m.
Thursday, April 7 Chuck Loeb Memorial All-Star Jazz Jam featuring Rick Braun, Gerald Veasley, Brian Bromberg, Eric Marienthal, Everette Harp, Andy Snitzer, Keiko Matsui, Chris “Big Dog” Davis, Bobby Lyle, Adam Hawley and Curtis McCain, plus special performance by Patti Austin 7 p.m. DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, Grand Ballroom
A Night with Brian Culbertson featuring Marcus Anderson 6 p.m. Santander Performing Arts Center
DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, small ballroom
12 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS When April 1-10 Where Various venues throughout Berks County, Pennsylvania. Main venues include: Santander Performing Arts Center, 136 N. 6th St., Reading; DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, Grand Ballroom, 701 Penn St., Reading; Scottish Rite Cathedral, 310 S. 7th Ave., W. Reading; Miller Center for the Arts, Reading Area Community College, 4 N. 2nd St., Reading. Getting there Flights are available to the Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), approximately 70 miles from Berks County. Staying there www.berksjazzfest.com/where-to-stay/ Tickets and information Visit www.berksjazzfest.com Lineup Below is a partial lineup of the major concerts. For the complete lineup, visit the festival website. For smooth jazz concert listings, see our calendar section, beginning on page 24. Friday, April 1 Opening Night Celebration featuring Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis 7 p.m. Santander Performing Arts Center Eric Darius featuring Rebecca Jade 7 p.m. Miller Center for the Arts, Reading Area Community College
Peter White and Vincent Ingala with special guest Mindi Abair 9:30 p.m.
DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, Grand Ballroom
DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, small ballroom
Saturday, April 9 Chris “Big Dog” Davis presents Celebrating Women in Jazz featuring Patti Austin, Maysa, Lindsey Webster, Selina Albright, Jessy J, Karen Briggs, Althea Rene and Marcia Miget 1 p.m. DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, Grand Ballroom
As huge music fans of all genres, Ernesto and his wife, Suzie, each have a good ear for great talent. So, when booking Berks, Ernesto always has a few acts he’s especially eager to see.
Santander Performing Arts Center
An Evening with Gregory Porter 7 p.m.
Sunday, April 3 Four80East with special guests Jeff Kashiwa and JJ Sansaverino 2:30 p.m.
“Anytime you get to present Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, it is exciting. Wynton was the first headliner at the inaugural fest in 1991,” Ernesto said. “I’m also looking forward to the Chris ‘Big Dog’ Davis-produced ‘Celebrating Women in Jazz’ concert, featuring Patti Austin and others. Chris always produces a great show. Plus, the new collaboration of Everette Harp and Andy Snitzer.”
Since the artists quickly become part of the Berks family, many of them, such as Braun and Veasley, return each year. Fans never seem to tire of these repeat performers, who often update their shows or are paired with specialty ensembles. However, festivalgoers are thrilled to discover new talent. This year, San Diego-based vocalist Rebecca Jade will be among the festival’s first-timers.
“Our mission each year is to take care of the fans, take care of the artists, and everything else will take care of itself,” Ernesto concluded.
DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, small ballroom
DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, Grand Ballroom
AvAilAble At: www.amazon.com, iTunes, https://music.apple.com, https://cdbaby.com/ and other online retailers Website:
XAVIER GORDON
KIM SCOTT
• All About Love (Baja/TSR Records)
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WEBSITE:
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• (InnervisionSHINE! Records)
Tony Saunders has vibed with everyone from Eric Clapton, David Crosby, Les McCann, Joe Sample and Chaka Khan. Saunders pays homage to the partner that’s held the groove all these years, his trusty five-string bass. On his new album, All About Love, Saunders says, “I romance the bass like I romance life.” His collaborations on the album with an array of smooth jazz greats make All About Love a must-have release.
WILLIE BRADLEY
AVAILABLE AT: https://xaviergordonmusic.com, iTunes, www.amazon.com, www.spotify.com, and all digital platforms
•
GIL
• “You’re Beside Me” (single) (Gilbert Steven Johnson)
https://xaviergordonmusic.comfunkofonajourneythat
Vocalist GIL returns with his fourth single, “You’re Beside Me.” The smooth jazz-soul-inflected track includes the masterful guitar work of genre-legend Doc Powell, and is produced by Dove Award-nominee AyRon Lewis. “You’re Beside Me” is the first single from GIL’s second album, due out later this year, and is dedicated to his late wife Darlene Johnson. AvAilAble At: All retail outlets and at www.gilsings.com Website: www.gilsings.comtrackincludes
• Life of the Party (Unlimited Heights Entertainment Inc.)
Advertisement: To inquire about placement, call 858-541-1919 or email smoothjazzads@aol.com.
www.kimscottmusic.comdefinitelykeep features include Jonathan Butler, Althea Rene,
TONY SAUNDERS
Life of the Party is the sophomore release from Prince saxophonist and Smooth Jazz Network’s 2019 Breakout Artist of the Year BK Jackson, featuring Trombone Shorty, Adam Hawley and Nicholas Cole. BK’s music has also been referred to as “young and fresh” and “exactly what the genre needs” by industry icon Dave Koz. AvAilAble At: iTunes, www.cdbaby.com, www.amazon.com, www.spotify.com, www.tidal.com, Apple Music Website: www.bkjackson.com2019Breakout Adam
Bradley’s music brings together many varied styles, but takes smooth jazz to a whole new level. Check out his latest release, It’s My Time AvAilAble At: iTunes, www.amazon.com, www.spotify.com Website: www.williebradley.net
Excellence is a smooth jazz album that blends funk and R&B grooves with the piano styles of Xavier Gordon. This five-song EP takes you on a journey that represents life’s experiences. This music is for everyone, featuring fun, upbeat tunes, romantic love songs and more. Excellence debuted at No. 2 on the Jazz iTunes Charts.
It’s My Time (Willie Bradley Music) Bold, yet simultaneously charming; edgy, yet at the same time beautiful. These seemingly opposing adjectives might well-describe the music of artist-trumpeter Willie Bradley, but also fittingly tell about the man!
BK JACKSON
It is sure to be a bright light in the music world!
SHINE!, Kim Scott’s fifth album on the Innervision Records label, is a collection of songs that will definitely keep your toes tapping. Notable features include Jonathan Butler, Althea Rene, Ragan Whiteside and Blake Aaron, with songs co-written by Scott and Adam Hawley, Greg Manning, Kelvin Wooten and others.
• (TrioExcellenceEntertainment)
14 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS
Seabreeze Jazz Festival featured artwork created by Stuart McClean
presented by Visit Panama City Beach
By Melanie Maxwell
The Seabreeze Jazz Festival was one of the first genre events to postpone at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, and it was the first one to open its gates last year (with safety protocols in place and reduced capacity). In April, the festival is taking place full-throttle with 23 acts, two dining cruises and four after-parties throughout its five-day run. With expanded seating and the addition of a new larger food court with after-party stage area, this normally sold-out festival can now accommodate 500 additional patrons daily. “Various areas of the park have been re-landscaped and opened up, and the capacity of the park is now 10,000. But we will be holding at 8,000, up from our previous 7,500 per day cap,” said Mark Carter, who produces the festival with his wife of 42 years, Renee’. Recently constructed hotels and a condominium tower in this popular Northwest Florida beach town should now provide enough lodging to accommodate additional festivalgoers.“PanamaCity Beach has a new TownePlace Suites, Homewood Suites, Radisson Hotel, a third Calypso Tower [condominiums) and, soon to open, Embassy Suites. Florida is currently in a huge growth curve due to a strong 2020 and 2021 tourist business. Plus, many newcomers are making Florida their home,” said Carter. He then added: “We have a new booking search map tool on our website, which populates the available hotels, condos and beach rentals and shows their nightly rates and location from the show. Also, a good resource is the Visit Panama City Beach website at www.visitpanamacitybeach.com.”
SEABREEZE JAZZ FEST I V A L PANAMA CITY BEACH, FLORIDA ~ APRIL 20-24
As for health and safety protocols during the festival, Carter said that there will not be a mask requirement to enter the venue, and that they won’t be socially-distancing seating. “We will have additional space in general admission under the adjacent shade trees for added room. And, we are again encouraging all vendors to continue the health and safety sanitation policies from 2021. Patrons have the option to wear a mask but it’s not required,” Carter explained.
The food court will feature vendors offering a variety of options, including Gulf Coast cuisine, seafood, hickory-smoked Southern barbecue, New Orleans-style specialties, vegetarian and non-fried items, as well as typical festival fare and beverages.
Whether attendees choose to mask or not, Carter said he wants everyone to enjoy a great weekend of music, “All in a fun, comfortably and yet exciting vacation destination with white-sand beaches, shopping, dining and attractions just steps away from the action onstage. A full weekend of top smooth jazz entertainment, the sea breeze blowing across the beach and good old Florida sunshine is the perfect jazz escape for everyone.”
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“We provide the landing point for the music, but don’t forget about the world-class golf, fishing, scuba diving, renowned restaurants, and, of course, the beaches when attending. Come early or stay later to really soak in the area attractions and fun.”
Carter structured this year’s lineup to include four featured Seabreeze Rising Star acts, one for each day, positioned right before the headliners.“Wewant to provide bigger exposure to new talent,” Carter said. “Justin-Lee Schultz is the piano prodigy from South Africa. He’s had several Top 10 Billboard hits. Randy Scott is a saxophonist from Detroit with three Billboard No. 1 smooth jazz hits. Ryan La Valette is a isfirstfrommulti-instrumentalistNewZealand.Hissinglejustreleasedcalled‘LetItFlow.’Hewill be making his first appearance in the USA at Seabreeze. Mark Jaimes is a British guitar player with several Top 10 Billboard hits. He’s known for his shows at the PizzaExpress in London.”
“Since we use the same strategy as programming our smooth jazz radio station WSBZ, we strive to provide a great mix of music,” Carter said from his Santa Rosa Beach, Florida, studio. “Combining smooth jazz favorites currently charting on Billboard Smooth Jazz along with exciting up-and-coming new talent on the airways keeps the audience engaged, and select crossover vocals and classic R&B keep the vibe upbeat through the entire five-day event.”
However, when the vendors close up shop each night at 9, the food court transforms into an after-party space with live music, an appetizer buffet and a no-host bar. It’s great that there are so many options because outside food and drinks are not allowed inside the venue. And, the only method of payment for all on-site food, beverage, merchandise and other purchases must be made with the festival’s cashless system of currency contained within their wristbands. Each wristband, which also serves as a “digital wallet” and ticket to the event, contains an RFID chip encoded with each customer’s ticket order and linked to funds electronically loaded with a credit card or cash. See festival website for details.
The Seabreeze Jazz Festival mobile app, which can be downloaded for free at both the Apple and Google app stores, can be used to add funds to wristbands, check balances and past purchases and also to view the festival lineup and vendor information and locations. In addition, the app has a live year-round link to The Seabreeze radio stream.However, the Seabreeze Jazz Festival provides fans the opportunity to experience the best genre stars they normally only hear on the radio, live onstage in a scenic outdoor setting. Some of those performers plan to sign CDs and meetand-greet their fans after their show at the festival’s merchandise tent. Others might still be a bit hesitant to mingle during a pandemic, and a few may need to rush to the airport to catch a flight after their set. So, the artists’ CD-signing schedule has not yet been confirmed.
Carter encouraged festivalgoers to also enjoy the sights, sounds and experience of the Gulf Coast along with the entertainment.
continued on page 16
2021 Seabreeze Jazz Festival in Panama City Beach, Florida
Carter said that some other fun highlights include Charlie Wilson, making his first Seabreeze Jazz Festival appearance, as are Brian Bromberg, Hiroshima, Blake Aaron and CeeLo Green, who is a special guest of saxophonist Marcus Anderson. They will all be performing in a state-of-the-art amphitheater, with a loading dock, green room and dressing rooms. The venue, which opened in 2013, also offers the conveniences jazz fans appreciate most: plenty of air-conditioned, running-water restrooms (there is rarely a long line!); free parking; 10 acres of manicured lawn; the recently expanded food court and craft market. Merchants will have art, custom jewelry, men’s and women’s clothing and other items for sale, including subscriptions to Smooth Jazz News
What hasn’t changed is the consistently stellar lineup that is booked by Carter, who also owns Destin, Florida-based WSBZ-FM 106.3 The Seabreeze radio station.
continued from page 15
TICKETS AND INFORMATION Wristbands, with embedded RFID technology, are issued in lieu of paper tickets, and are also the digital currency for all festival purchases inside the Discountedvenue.tickets are available to military members at a variety of locations, including select military bases, which are posted on the festival website. For complete Seabreeze Jazz Festival details and more information about the cashless system, visit www.seabreezejazzfestival.com or call 850-267-3279.
16 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS
*Dining cruises are separately ticketed events aboard the Solaris entertainment yacht, sailing around St. Andrews Bay. Boarding at the Lighthouse Marina, 5325 N. Lagoon Dr., Panama City Beach, Florida.
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PARKING General admission parking is free at adjacent Pier Park. All reserved tickets (Gold, Premium and Ultimate Jazz Tables) include free on-site parking in a dedicated lot.
performingHiroshimaFriday,AprilKim22
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Kayla Waters and Kim Waters noon Four80East featuring JJ Sansaverino 1:45 p.m. Peabo Bryson and Keiko Matsui 3:30 p.m. Mark Jaimes (Seabreeze Rising Star) 5:30 p.m.
Blake Aaron noon Jazz in Pink featuring Gail Jhonson, Kim Scott, Paula Atherton, Chelsey Green and Josie Aiello 1:35 p.m. Marion Meadows and Alex Bugnon 3:15 p.m. Spyro Gyra 5:15 p.m. Justin-Lee Schultz (Seabreeze Rising Star) 7:15 p.m. Charlie Wilson 8:30 p.m. After-Party stage on festival grounds at Aaron Bessant Park After-Party featuring Down to the Bone (separately ticketed event) 10:30 p.m. Friday, April 22
Boney James 6:45 p.m. After-Party stage on festival grounds at Aaron Bessant Park After-Party featuring Norman Brown (separately ticketed event) 9 p.m.
FaunaTheDescribePhoto: MirandaMélisaPhoto:GuillardBobbyPhoto:
WHEN April 20-24 WHERE Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater, 500 W. Park Dr., Panama City Beach, Florida
STAYING THERE Visit www.seabreezejazzfestival.com/staymap.html for available hotels, condominiums and beach rentals, along with nightly rates and locations.
*Seabreeze Dinner Cruise featuring Eric Darius, boards at 6:30 p.m., sails at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 21
GETTING THERE Flights are available to the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport (ECP) in Panama City Beach, and Destin-Fort Walton Beach Airport (VPS) in Fort Walton Beach, Florida. The venue is approximately 10 miles from ECP and 55 miles from VPS.
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Marcus Anderson performing Friday, April 22
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Brian Simpson with Jessy J and Jackiem Joyner 1:35 p.m. Ken Ford 3:15 p.m. Brian Bromberg and His Unapologetically Funky Big Bombastic Band featuring Everette Harp 5:15 p.m. Ryan La Valette (Seabreeze Rising Star) 7:15 p.m. Ruben Sings Luther featuring Ruben Studdard 8:30 p.m. After-Party stage on festival grounds at Aaron Bessant Park After-Party featuring Lindsey Webster and Adam Hawley (separately ticketed event) 10:30 p.m. Sunday, April 24 On festival grounds (gates open at 10 a.m.)
Brian Simpson performing Saturday, April 23 Gerald Albright performing Friday, April 22 Boney Sunday,performingJamesApril24 Scott performing Thursday, April 21
LINEUP Wednesday, April 20
ProductionsSnowdesert
*Seabreeze Jazzy Brunch Cruise featuring Chris Standring, boards at 8:30 a.m., sails at 9 a.m.
Hiroshima noon Eric Darius featuring Rebecca Jade 1:35 p.m. Cindy Bradley 3:15 p.m. Marcus Anderson with special guest CeeLo Green 5:15 p.m. Randy Scott (Seabreeze Rising Star) 7:15 p.m. Sheila E. and Damien Escobar 8:30 p.m. After-Party stage on festival grounds at Aaron Bessant Park After-Party featuring Gerald Albright (separately ticketed event) 10:30 p.m. Saturday, April 23 On festival grounds (gates open at 10 a.m.)
On festival grounds (gates open at 10 a.m.)
Lin Rountree noon
On festival grounds (gates open at 10 a.m.)
MARCH/APRIL 2022 | 17 Receive one CD FREE* (while supplies last) PICK 1 free Going to the 31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest or the 23rd Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival? 31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest April 1-3 and April 8-10 Various venues throughout Reading, Pennsylvania www.berksjazzfest.com or 23rd Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival April 21-24 Aaron Bessant Park in Panama City Beach, Florida www.seabreezejazzfestival.com *This free-CD offer is a special promotion only available at the 2022 Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest and the Seabreeze Jazz Festival, while supplies last, and CD selection is subject to change without notice. This offer is not available when ordering by phone, mail or online. CDs are provided compliments of record labels. when you renew or subscribe to Smooth Jazz News at our booth during the I want Smooth Jazz News delivered to my mailbox (seven issues)Yes! *Price effective through April 30, 2022 Complete this form, and send it with a check or money order for $25* (or use the credit card option) to Smooth Jazz News, 5519 Clairemont Mesa Blvd., #134, San Diego, CA 92117. Home delivery is available to U.S. addresses only. CityAddressName State ZIP Phone Email Credit card option (MasterCard, Visa and American Express) Card no. CVC Exp. date Exact name on card Billing Signatureaddress GET HOME DELIVERY! ONLINE at www.smoothjazznews.com CALL 858-541-1919 to charge by phone MAIL the form on this page SUBSCRIBE AT OUR BOOTH DURING: Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest Various venues throughout Berks County, Pennsylvania April 1-3 and April www.berksjazzfest.com8-10 Seabreeze Jazz Festival Aaron Bessant Park Panama City Beach, Florida April www.seabreezejazzfestival.com21-24 Smooth Jazz News subscription CD compliments of Artistry Music CD compliments of GRP/Verve Records CD compliments of Concord Music Group FREE CD from SMooth Jazz News
Give the man a stage, and he’s ready to perform [ Catch him at the Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest and at the Seabreeze Jazz Festival in April ]
With his latest release, Solid , he continues to cement his legacy as a supremely gifted melodic songwriter and versatile musician capable of bridging different generations of sounds. Solid, his 17th solo album, is the logical follow-up and fitting companion to his bestselling Honestly, which dominated the contemporary jazz charts for well over a year after its release in 2017. Filled with soulful, heart-on-the-sleeve grooves and just enough funk to get the blood pumping, the album should be another crowd pleaser, as it showcases his production prowess, fluid saxophone work and colorful array of melodies.
Saxophonist Boney James is one of the most popular and highly regarded contemporary jazz artists for a reason. A stellar musician and a dynamic live performer, James has developed a remarkable track record as a recording artist, releasing a string of superbly crafted albums over the past quarter century.
FaunaTheDescribePhoto:
By Ken Capobianco
Few artists in jazz have delivered so many high-quality, bestselling albums with James’ consistency. According to the 60-year-old artist, the secret to his success is pretty simple. “The way to make a great record is to make one you personally love. I feel a responsibility to the people who
BONEYJAMES
“When I started out, I was working with Paul, and I didn’t know anything about making records. Time went on, and technology developed, and I was able to make a studio in my own house. I ended up knowing more about the digital studio than Paul because he was more of an old school analog guy.”
“Music helps me deal with all the stress from what’s going on out there. I put all that into music. Others may put it into listening to music, but it’s the same feeling we get when we are around music. It does something to your brain and body that’s really positive.”
MARCH/APRIL 2022 | 19 love my music to make the best record I can. The main thing is it’s heartfelt and comes from an honest place. I think people will always react to that.”
The Massachusetts native, who spoke via phone from his home in the Los Angeles area, is an extremely cerebral and pleasant conversationalist. He had a measured confidence and quiet passion as he discussed his art and career, which began in the 1980s when he worked with a number of R&B artists, including Morris Day and The Isley Brothers. He was most animated when discussing Solid, which he hopes will transport music listeners and serve as an antidote to some of the toxicity in the world“Thistoday.isa fractured era we are living in, and music has become more important––it’s a reaction to that,” he said. “Maybe think of the music on the album as a counter-programming to the world at large. And, with this record, the music just poured out of me. The songs hopefully bring joy and take you to another world.
One of the trademarks of a Boney James record is his state-ofthe-art production. He’s become a terrific arranger, and all of his songs demand an examination with headphones to fully appreciate the layers and dimension in his music. While he professes not to listen to contemporary pop (“honestly, it’s not a pleasure to listen to contemporary music—it’s work for me”), his sound is just as sonically inventive and bright as any European pop or modern R&B producer. He developed his craft after learning from his early collaborator, engineer and producer, Paul Brown, who helped guide George Benson and Luther Vandross, among others.
“ T he way to m a ke a g reat record is to m a ke one you personally love. I feel a res p onsibility to t he people who love my mu s i c to make t h e b e s t reco rd I can. ”
One of the best tracks, “Be Here,” is a silky throwback R&B collaboration with vocalist Kenny Lattimore, who wrote the lyrics. The meeting of the minds was a long time in the making. “We met 20 years ago at the Soul Train Awards, the year that I won, maybe ’97 or ’98 [1998], and we said, ‘We should work together someday.’ That someday turned out to be over 20 years,” James said,“Therelaughing.were a few times that we shared a bill, but there wasn’t a lot of contact over the years. I do have a list of singers I admire, though, and every so often a song pops up, and I think that might be good for so-and-so. With the song, I could just hear his voice––that lovely, lush quality in his falsetto is so cool––and this just seemed like the time for it.”
Before its cancellation two years ago due to the COVID-19 pandemic, his appearance at the Seabreeze continued on page 22
James took a moment to recall the period when he felt confident enough to take the reins. “About 2002, I thought, ‘I’m going to do it myself,’ and now I’ve done more records as a solo producer than I did with Paul, and many of them were very successful and Grammynominated. I love having total control and being able to realize ideas, so it’s become a big part of the creative process for me. The producing is almost another instrument in and of itself.” James is set to play the 31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Festival and the 23rd Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival in April. He said he likes playing all jazz festivals, but what really draws him to the fests is the lure of the stage. Any stage. “I love playing everywhere. Wherever there’s a crowd and a stage, I’m there. Festivals are fun because you get to run into other artists, but there’s no place I’d rather be than onstage with my saxophone and my band, so how can you not love festivals?”
Three songs, including the title track, were generated from riffs played during a soundcheck by James’ touring guitarist, Kendall Gill. James, who says he has musical ideas running around his head throughout the day, pounced after hearing the random licks and went to work.
While he will fraternize with other musicians, he doesn’t watch many shows or spend time in each festival’s city. “A gig like Seabreeze is really nice because it’s such a beautiful setting––you are right there on the beach––but to be very honest, for most gigs, we just fly in and fly out. I don’t spend time doing sightseeing.”
“I’d be in my dressing room, and I’d hear the band onstage and run out with my phone and say ‘Hey, what was that thing you’re playing?’ And he just played this (imitating a funky guitar riff), and I’d record just the guitar and come home and make a little Pro Tools file and work on writing a song. That’s how those songs were born—out of little guitar riffs. You never know where they come from.” Gill won’t be on tour with James this year, but the popular saxophonist will have a stellar band comprising Michael “Big Mike” Hart Jr. on guitar, Smitty Smith on bass, Omari Williams on drums, and Jonathan Richmond on keyboards.
Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater Panama City Beach, www.seabreezejazzfestival.comFlorida
DoubleTree by Hilton Reading Reading, www.berksjazzfest.comPennsylvania
April 24 23rd Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival
For more information on James, visit www.boneyjames.com.
He added that with all that is going on in society, he just tries to be the best version of himself and contribute to a better world by being kind. “I think humility is very important. Be a good person like everybody else, and just do my best at whatever I do. Character is so important. And that’s what Solid is about in many ways. You try to live by a certain set of principles and be solid.”
“When I’m home, I’m in my studio at least six days a week. I’m practicing all the time, and always thinking about music—practicing or making a record. It’s just one big long cycle, so I’m ready when I hit the stage. It’s going to be 100 percent. It’s very much like being an athlete. You have to stay in condition all the time. It never stops.”
Jazz Festival would have coincided with The Isley Brothers. “You know, I haven’t seen the Isleys in some time, but since we are both playing Seabreeze, maybe I’ll run into them,” he had said in 2020, before the global coronavirus shut everything down that year.
2 Orlando
22 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS lot of R&B bands. It turned into a snowball effect, resulting in the music I make now.”
continued from page 19 ON TOURMay7
James has had more interaction with Day, with whom he worked extensively during the ’80s heyday of the Minneapolis sound. James played a couple of shows with Morris pre-pandemic. “We shared the bill, and it was the same good feeling. It was nice to see a lot of the guys in the band who were there when I played in 1985, so it was amazing. That period was another lifetime for me, though,” he laughed.
As his music on Solid reveals, the saxophonist-composer remains heavily indebted to R&B music. “My first love was R&B music,” he maintained. “I was fortunate because I grew up in the ’70s when radio was a conduit to all kinds of music. You could hear all types of sounds on the same station.
“I did see Ronnie Isley at an awards show somewhere, and he said, ‘Oh, we are so proud of you,’ which I genuinely appreciated.”
April 8 31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest
Photo: Describe The Fauna
Like other perfectionist musicians, James finds relaxation in making more music and spending time in his studio. He said his downtime is spent with his wife of 37 years, actress Lily Mariye, and musing about his next song. “I don’t have many other interests outside of music,” he admitted. “I read books, but I’ve always been a quiet homebody. For the most part, I’m a very introverted person.
Vine
Jazz the The Osthoff Resort Elkhart Lake, https://osthoff.com/jazz-on-the-vineWisconsin
on
“You could hear rock music and Stevie Wonder and Marvin Gaye, so I was exposed to great R&B. It informed my life and filled my soul. Once I started to learn how to play and create my own music, it turned out I had an affinity to play a certain type of music, which was reinforced by my professional development because I was gigging with a “ Festivals are fun because you get to run into other ar tists , but there’s no place I’d rather be than onstage with my saxophone and my band. ”
July Music Festival Central Florida Fairgrounds Orlando, https://orlandomusicfestival.orgFlorida
MARCH/APRIL 2022 | 23
Two-Day Preferred
plus tax Reserve your tickets
7 Music Monday featuring the Jeff Lorber Trio, 6pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199
17 Daytona Jazz Weekend hosted by Mindi Abair, featuring Randy Jacobs: The Music of Jeff Golub, Keiko Matsui, Peter White & Vincent Ingala, 7pm, The Daytona Hotel, 1870 Victory Circle, Daytona Beach, Florida, https:// floridasmoothjazz.com, 386-681-7007
Tony Saunders, Worldwidejazzradio.com6:30pm, 1st Anniversary Concert, Art Houz Restaurant, Bar & Theaters, 814 S. 3rd St., Las Vegas, Nevada, www.tonysaunders.com
May 6–8, 2022 Featuring Boney James, Lindsey Webster, Kim Waters, Brian Simpson, Urban Jazz Coalition, Paul Taylor, Four80 East and Marcell Guyton. Seating: $210/person, General Admission: $169/person, at Osthoff.com/jazz-on-the-vine callElkhart800-876-3399.Lake,WI
Join us for another fabulous Jazz on the Vine at The Osthoff Resort!
St. Patrick’s Day featuring DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
CONCERTS, FESTIVALS AND CRUISES
Kirk Whalum, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com, 18 Daytona Jazz Weekend hosted by Mindi Abair, featuring Lindsey Webster & Adam Hawley, Kim Waters & Kayla Waters, Eric Darius, 7pm, The Daytona Hotel, 1870 Victory Circle, Daytona Beach, Florida, 386-681-7007https://floridasmoothjazz.com, Special EFX All-Stars featuring Chieli Minucci, Eric Marienthal, continued on page 26
MARCH 5 Eric Darius, 7 & 10pm, Soiled Dove Underground, 7401 E. 1st Ave., Denver, Colorado, www.soileddove.com, 303-830-9214 6 Steve Oliver, 6pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199
plus tax Two-Day
An Evening with Mindi Abair, 7 & 9pm, Middle C Jazz Club, 300 S. Brevard St., Charlotte, North Carolina, 704-595-3311https://middlecjazz.com, Paul Taylor & Michael Lington, 7 & 10pm, Soiled Dove Underground, 7401 E. 1st Ave., Denver, Colorado, www.soileddove.com, 303-830-9214
or
24 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS NEWS11
12 An Evening with Mindi Abair, 7 & 9pm, Middle C Jazz Club, 300 S. Brevard St., Charlotte, North Carolina, 704-595-3311https://middlecjazz.com, Apaulo Productions presents Grooves Jazz at The Westin featuring Peter White with Gregg Karukas & an all-star band, 7pm, The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa, Westin Grooves Backyard, 71333 Dinah Shore Dr., Rancho Mirage, California, https:// groovesatthewestin.com, 951-696-0184
MARCH/APRIL 2022 | 25 AN EVENT MANAGEMENT COMPANY Specialist In Conceptualizing Innovative Projects AUGUST 12-14, 2022 Rainbow Lagoon Park | Long Beach, California UPCOMING EVENTS 4th Annual SAN DIEGO SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL JUNE 11-1 2 San Diego Venue TBA 33rd Annual LONG BEACH JAZZ FESTIVAL AUGUST 12-14 Rainbow Lagoon Park Inaugural CINCINNATI INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL SEPTEMBER 2-3 Smale Riverfront Park HANDLING ALL YOUR EVENT NEEDS PLANNING AND MARKETING | ALL GENRES OF MUSIC 562-424-0013 - www.rainbowpromotions.com
25 Kim Scott, 7:30pm, BirminghamJefferson Convention Complex Concert Hall, 1 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N., Birmingham, Alabama, www.kimscottmusic.com
31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest presents Eric Darius & Rebecca Jade, 7pm, Miller Center for the Arts, Reading Area Community College, 4 N. 2nd St., Reading, Pennsylvania, www.berksjazzfest.com
Lake Dr., Casselberry, Florida, www.casselberry.org (free admission)
APRIL 1 An Evening with Brian Culbertson featuring Marcus Anderson, 8pm, Scottish Rite Auditorium, 315 White Horse Pike, Collingswood, New Jersey, www.brianculbertson.com
27 Mindi Abair, 7pm, Dakota, 1010 Nicollett Mall, Minneapolis, Minnesota, 612-332-5299www.mindiabair.com,
31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest featuring Peter White & Vincent Ingala with special guest Mindi Abair, 9:30pm, Grand Ballroom; Gerald Veasley’s Jam with Eric Darius, Jeff Kashiwa, Brian Bromberg, JJ Sansaverino, Bobby Lyle, Andrew Neu, Rob DeBoer, Tony Grace, Karen Briggs, Donald Robinson, Richard Waller & more, 11:30pm, small ballroom, DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, 701 Penn St., Reading, www.berksjazzfest.comPennsylvania, 2 31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest featuring Najee with special guests Bobby Lyle & Chris Walker, 1pm, Grand Ballroom; Gregg Karukas’ Hammond B3 Organ Group with Brad Collins, Deren Blessman & The Berks Horns, 4:30pm, small ballroom; Gerald Veasley’s Jam with Chieli Minucci, Jeff Kashiwa, Andrew Neu, Gregg Karukas, JJ Sansaverino, Bobby Lyle, Lao Tizer, Karen Briggs, Brian Bromberg,
Adam Hawley & Marcus Anderson, 3:30 & 6pm, The New Loft @ Brothers Restaurant, 200 E. Plume St., Norfolk, https://brothersnorfolk.comVirginia, 28 Music Monday featuring Eric Marienthal & special guest Paul Jackson Jr., 6pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199
24 Euge Groove, 7:30pm, The Birchmere, 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, www.birchmere.com,Virginia,703-549-7500
Kirk Whalum, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729
19 Daytona Jazz Weekend hosted by Mindi Abair, featuring Nathan Mitchell & Patrick Lamb, Rick Braun, Mindi Abair, 7pm, The Daytona Hotel, 1870 Victory Circle, Daytona Beach, 386-681-7007https://floridasmoothjazz.com,Florida, Apaulo Productions presents Grooves Jazz at The Westin featuring David Benoit, Barbara Morrison & big band, 7pm, The Westin Rancho Mirage Golf Resort & Spa, Westin Grooves Backyard, 71333 Dinah Shore Dr., Rancho Mirage, California, https:// groovesatthewestin.com, 951-696-0184 Marcus Anderson, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com, Kirk Whalum, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729 20 Kirk Whalum, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com, 22 Eric Marienthal & an all-star cast of surprise guest artists, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
Jeff Kashiwa & Four80East, 8pm, Soiled Dove Underground, 7401 E. 1st Ave., Denver, www.soileddove.com,Colorado,303-830-9214
31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest Opening Night Celebration featuring Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, 7pm, Santander Performing Arts Center, 136 N. 6th St., Reading, Pennsylvania, www.berksjazzfest.com
Adam Hawley & Marcus Anderson, 6 & 8:30pm, The New Loft @ Brothers Restaurant, 200 E. Plume St., Norfolk, https://brothersnorfolk.comVirginia, Althea Rene, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199
Brian Simpson, 7:30pm, Suite Food Lounge, 375 Luckie St., Atlanta, Georgia, 404-577-2500https://suiteatl.com/events, DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
26 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS continued from page 24 Lao Tizer, Joel Rosenblatt & Dave Livolsi, 8pm, Soiled Dove Underground, 7401 E. 1st Ave., Denver, Colorado, www.soileddove.com, 303-830-9214
Adam Hawley & Marcus Anderson, 6 & 8:30pm, The New Loft @ Brothers Restaurant, 200 E. Plume St., Norfolk, https://brothersnorfolk.comVirginia, 26 Brian Simpson & Jackiem Joyner, 6pm, Spring Jazz & Art Festival, Lake Concord Park, 95 Triplet
MARCH/APRIL 2022 | 27 continued on page 28
31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest featuring Gregory Porter, 7pm, Santander Performing Arts Center, 136 N. 6th St., Reading, Pennsylvania, www.berksjazzfest.com
An Evening with Brian Culbertson featuring Marcus Anderson & Marqueal Jordan, 8pm, The Madison Theatre at Molloy College, 1000 Hempstead Ave., Rockville Centre, New York, madisontheatreny.org,https://516-323-4444
31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest featuring Four80East with special guests Jeff Kashiwa & JJ Sansaverino, 2:30pm, small ballroom, DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, 701 Penn St., Reading, Pennsylvania, www.berksjazzfest.com
31st Anniversary Celebration Concert with Eric Marienthal, Rick Braun, Keiko Matsui, Everette Harp, Brian Bromberg, Adam Hawley, Lindsey Webster, The Berks Horns, featuring A Tribute to Nick Colionne, 6pm, Scottish Rite Cathedral, 310 S. 7th Ave., W. Reading, www.berksjazzfest.comPennsylvania,
31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest presents A Night with Brian Culbertson featuring Marcus Anderson, 6pm, Santander Performing Arts Center, 136 N. 6th St., Reading, www.berksjazzfest.comPennsylvania, 4 31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest presents Get JazzED Night, RMF Project Penske Jazz Jam hosted by Mike Eben, featuring Albert Rivera, Gerald Veasley, Brian Bromberg, Bobby Lyle & Andrew Neu, 7pm, small ballroom, DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, 701 Penn St., Reading, www.berksjazzfest.comPennsylvania, 6 An Evening with Brian Culbertson featuring Marcus Anderson & Marqueal Jordan, 7:30pm, Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 W. Patrick St., Frederick, Maryland, https:// weinbergcenter.org, 301-600-2828
Patrick Bradley, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com, 3 Biscuit Fest 9 featuring Mindi Abair, 6 & 9pm, The Funky Biscuit, 303 S.E. Mizner Blvd., Royal Palm Place, Boca Raton, Florida, https:// funkybiscuit.com, 561-395-2929
7
31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest presents Chuck Loeb Memorial AllStar Jazz Jam featuring Rick Braun, Gerald Veasley, Brian Bromberg, Eric Marienthal, Everette Harp, Andy Snitzer, Keiko Matsui, Chris “Big Dog” Davis, Bobby Lyle, Adam Hawley & Curtis McCain, plus special performance by Patti Austin, 7pm, Grand Ballroom, DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, 701 Penn St., Reading, www.berksjazzfest.comPennsylvania, DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
Rob DeBoer, Tony Grace, Sean U, Donald Robinson, Richard Waller & more, 11:30pm, small ballroom, DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, 701 Penn St., Reading, www.berksjazzfest.comPennsylvania,
The Birchmere presents An Evening with Brian Culbertson featuring Marcus Anderson, 8pm, Warner Theatre, 513 13th St. N.W., Washington, www.brianculbertson.comD.C., 8 Spring into Jazz with Willie Bradley: A Night of Smooth Jazz, 7 & 9pm, Middle C Jazz Club, 300 S. Brevard St., Charlotte, North Carolina, 704-595-3311https://middlecjazz.com, 31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest featuring Boney James, 9:30pm, Grand Ballroom; Gerald Veasley’s Jam with Karen Briggs, Jackiem Joyner, Andrew Neu, Jessy J, Althea Rene, Tony Exum Jr., Carol Albert, Curtis McCain, Donald Robinson, Richard Waller & more, 11:30pm, small ballroom, DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, 701 Penn St., Reading, www.berksjazzfest.comPennsylvania, Erin Stevenson, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com, Mindi Abair & The Boneshakers, 2:30pm, Tampa Bay Blues Festival, Vinoy Park, Bayshore Dr. N.E. & 5th Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg, www.tampabaybluesfest.comFlorida, Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest
31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest, Chris “Big Dog” Davis presents Celebrating Women in Jazz featuring Patti Austin, Maysa, Lindsey Webster, Selina Albright, Jessy J, Karen Briggs, Althea Rene & Marcia Miget, 1pm, Grand Ballroom; Afternoon Jazz Party hosted by Al “DJ Act” Taylor featuring performance by Tony Exum Jr., 3:30pm, Cheers Lounge; Norman Brown, 9:30pm, Grand Ballroom; Gerald Veasley’s Midnight Jam with Karen Briggs, Andy Snitzer, Jackiem Joyner, Andrew Neu, Jessy J, Althea Rene, Carol Albert, Curtis McCain, Donald Robinson, Richard Waller & more, midnight, small ballroom, DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, 701 Penn St., Reading, www.berksjazzfest.comPennsylvania,
31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest featuring Jake Shimabukuro, 7pm, Miller Center for the Arts, Reading Area Community College, 4 N. 2nd St., Reading, www.berksjazzfest.comPennsylvania, Will Donato, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199
20 23rd Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival Dinner Cruise featuring Eric Darius, boards at 6:30pm, sails at 7pm, Cruise St. Andrews Bay aboard the Solaris Dinner Yacht, Lighthouse Marina, 5325 N. Lagoon Dr., Panama City Beach, 850-267-3279www.seabreezejazzfestival.com,Florida, 21 23rd Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival
continued from page 27 TROTMANELAN VEASLEYGERALD NESBYANNJONATHANBUTLER DOWN TO THE BONE DARIUSERIC CHELSEY GREEN AND THE GREEN PROJECT JACKIEMJOYNER LANGSTONHUGHESII MITCHELLNATHANALBRIGHTGERALD WHALUMKIRK 76 DEGREESWESTBOWMANTIM CHERIESWEET LINETTEKAREN RICHARDSTONYlakearborjazz.com JULY 13-17, 2022 MITCHELLVILLE, MD SANSAVERINOJJ WAR
16 Brian Simpson & Steve Oliver, 8pm, Soiled Dove Underground, 7401 E. 1st Ave., Denver, Colorado, www.soileddove.com, 303-830-9214
Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest
An Evening with Brian Culbertson featuring Marcus Anderson, 8pm, Performing Arts Center, Buffalo State College, 1300 Elmwood Ave., Buffalo, New York, https:// buffalostatepac.org, 716-878-3005 DOTSERO, 8pm, Soiled Dove Underground, 7401 E. 1st Ave., Denver, Colorado, www.soileddove.com, 303-830-9214
31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest, Jazz Cruise Night, David Sanborn & Friends featuring Randy Brecker, Joey DeFrancesco & Billy Kilson, 6pm, Scottish Rite Cathedral, 310 S. 7th Ave., W. Reading, www.berksjazzfest.comPennsylvania, 10 Willie Bradley, 8pm, Evans for Congress, The Veterans of Foreign Wars, 116 Chance St., Fayetteville, North Carolina, www.williebradley.net An Evening with Brian Culbertson featuring Marcus Anderson, 7pm, Roxian Theatre, 425 Chartiers Ave., Pittsburgh, www.brianculbertson.comPennsylvania, 31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest presents A Contemporary Sax Retrospective: Inspirations!
31st Anniversary Finale featuring Rick Braun & Gerald Albright with special guest Jeff Lorber, 6pm, Scottish Rite Cathedral, 310 S. 7th Ave., W. Reading, www.berksjazzfest.comPennsylvania, 14 DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
28 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS 9
Jazzy Brunch Cruise featuring Chris Standring, boards at 8:30am, sails at 9am, Cruise St. Andrews Bay aboard the Solaris Dinner Yacht, Lighthouse Marina, 5325 N. Lagoon Dr., Panama City Beach, 850-267-3279www.seabreezejazzfestival.com,Florida, 23rd Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival featuring, on the main festival stage, Blake Aaron, noon; Jazz in Pink featuring Gail Jhonson, Kim Scott, Paula Atherton, Chelsey Green & Josie Aiello, 1:35pm; Marion Meadows & Alex Bugnon, 3:15pm; Spyro Gyra, 5:15pm; Justin-Lee Schultz, 7:15pm; Charlie Wilson, 8:30pm; After-Party featuring Down to the Bone, on the after-party stage (separately ticketed event), 10:30pm, Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater, 500 W. Park Dr., Panama City Beach, Florida, 850-267-3279www.seabreezejazzfestival.com, DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch
featuring Everette Harp & Andy Snitzer, 3pm, Miller Center for the Arts, Reading Area Community College, 4 N. 2nd St., Reading, Pennsylvania, www.berksjazzfest.com
Smooth Jazz News is not responsible for any cancellations, changes or the accuracy of any concert, festival, cruise or brunch information contained in advertisements and/ or editorial published in this magazine, which has been provided by outside sources. Please confirm all information with the organizer directly before making any plans.
MARCH/APRIL 2022 | 29 JAZZ JFESTIVAL AZZ JFESTIVAL AZZ FESTIVAL W I N T E R P A R WK I N T E R P A R WK I N T E R P A R 3K 9 T H A N N U A 3L 9 T H A N N U A 3L 9 T H A N N U A L July 16-17, J2022 uly 16-17, J2022 uly 16-17, 2022 Downtown Winter Park, DColorado owntown Winter Park, DColorado owntown Winter Park, Colorado For lineup and details Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
Kenny G, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729
30 3rd Annual Dymally International Jazz & Arts Festival at CSUDH, featuring world-renowned & other international artists to be announced soon, 1pm, Dignity Health Sports Park, 18400 Avalon Blvd., Carson, California, axs.com,dymally-institute.csudh.edu,https://310-243-2204
continued on page 30
25 Music Monday featuring Eric Marienthal & special guest Larry Braggs, 6pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199
24 23rd Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival featuring, on the main festival stage, Kayla Waters & Kim Waters, noon; Four80East featuring JJ Sansaverino, 1:45pm; Peabo Bryson & Keiko Matsui, 3:30pm; Mark Jaimes, 5:30pm; Boney James, 6:45pm; After-Party featuring Norman Brown, on the after-party stage (separately ticketed event), 9pm, Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater, 500 W. Park Dr., Panama City Beach, Florida, 850-267-3279www.seabreezejazzfestival.com, Kenny G, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729
29 Willie Bradley, 8pm, Garner Performing Arts Center, 742 W. Garner Road, Garner, North Carolina, www.williebradley.net
22 23rd Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival featuring, on the main festival stage, Hiroshima, noon; Eric Darius & Rebecca Jade, 1:35pm; Cindy Bradley, 3:15pm; Marcus Anderson & special guest CeeLo Green, 5:15pm; Randy Scott, 7:15pm; Sheila E. & Damien Escobar, 8:30pm; After-Party featuring Gerald Albright, on the after-party stage (separately ticketed event), 10:30pm, Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater, 500 W. Park Dr., Panama City Beach, 850-267-3279www.seabreezejazzfestival.com,Florida, Kenny G, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729
DW3: A Tribute to the Legends of Music, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199
23 23rd Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival featuring, on the main festival stage, Lin Rountree, noon; Brian Simpson with Jessy J & Jackiem Joyner, 1:35pm; Ken Ford, 3:15pm; Brian Bromberg & His Unapologetically Funky Big Bombastic Band featuring Everette Harp, 5:15pm; Ryan La Valette, 7:15pm; Ruben Sings Luther Vandross featuring Ruben Studdard, 8:30pm; After-Party featuring Lindsey Webster & Adam Hawley, on the after-party stage (separately ticketed event), 10:30pm, Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater, 500 W. Park Dr., Panama City Beach, 850-267-3279www.seabreezejazzfestival.com,Florida, Special EFX featuring Chieli Minucci, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, www.spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199 Kenny G, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, www.jazzalley.com, 206-441-9729
Smooth Jazz for Scholars featuring Brian Simpson, 8pm, Parsons Complex, 70 W. River St., Milford, Connecticut, NOTE:203-874-4150com/smooth-jazz-for-scholars,www.jayrowemusic.
28 DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199
While we do our best to ensure the accuracy of the listings contained in this calendar, events may be postponed or canceled without notice. Artists, events, venues, dates and show times are all subject to change without notice.
MARCH-APRIL Jazz BruNches
30 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS
MARCH NOTE: Spaghettini’s Sunday Brunch performances in the lounge for March have sold-out. As of press time, lounge seating was still available for the brunch dates and shows below. However, seating in the restaurant’s dining rooms is often available. Please check directly with Spaghettini for brunch reservations at 562-596-2199, or visit www.spaghettini.com.
page 29
20 Daytona Jazz Weekend Sunday Brunch & Q&A with Mindi Abair, Rick Braun, Peter White & more, 9am, The Daytona Hotel, 1870 Victory Circle, Daytona Beach, 386-681-7007https://floridasmoothjazz.com,Florida, APRIL 3 31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest Sunday Jazz Brunch hosted by Michael Tozzi, featuring Special EFX All-Stars with Chieli Minucci, Elliott Yamin, Lao Tizer, Nelson Rangell, Karen Briggs, Gerald Veasley, Joel Rosenblatt & Curtis McCain, buffet, 10am; show, 11:30am, DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, Grand Ballroom, 701 Penn St., Reading, www.berksjazzfest.comPennsylvania, 10 31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest Sunday Jazz Brunch hosted by Michael Tozzi, featuring Nick Colionne’s Friends: A Salute to Nico! with Maysa, Kim Waters, Gerald Veasley, Brian Simpson & Jackiem Joyner, buffet, 10am; show, 11:30am, DoubleTree by Hilton Reading, Grand Ballroom, 701 Penn St., Reading, www.berksjazzfest.comPennsylvania, Spaghettini’s Legendary Brunch with performances by DW3, 11am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199 17 Spaghettini’s Legendary Easter Brunch with performances by DW3, 11am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199 24 Spaghettini’s Legendary Brunch with performances by DW3, 11am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, www.spaghettini.com,California,562-596-2199 from
continued
19 Daytona Jazz Weekend Saturday Brunch featuring Mindi Abair & Peter White, 9am, performance starts at 10am, Daytona International Speedway, Rolex 24 Lounge, 1801 W. International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach, Florida, https:// floridasmoothjazz.com, 386-681-7007
MARCH/APRIL 2022 | 31
While taking a timeout from the Boomtang music lab, DeBoer and Grace experimented with a groove-oriented musical vibe that would become Four80East’s signature sound. A quarter of a century later, the duo has become a mainstay on the smooth jazz circuit and one of Canada’s enduring acts.
“The smooth jazz format just didn’t exist as such here in Canada,” added Grace. The two artists don’t quite punctuate SIDES Four80East
32 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS
“When we started making this music, we didn’t know anything about smooth jazz,” said DeBoer in a joint interview with Grace from their studio in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. “We knew of musicians who were considered smooth jazz––George Benson and Kenny G at that point. But beyond that, we had no idea.
By Ken Capobianco anadian smooth jazz-funk band Four80East is celebrating its 25th anniversary this year––not bad for a group that started as a side project for cofounders Rob DeBoer and Tony Grace. The groove-oriented act that draws inspiration from all musical genres was born while DeBoer and Grace were working on their more pop-dance and R&B-focused band, The Boomtang Boys, and maintaining their dance label Boomtang Records in the mid-1990s. The producer duo had been heavily influenced by the acid jazz movement and R&B dance acts from the United Kingdom such as The Brand New Heavies, Soul II Soul, Jamiroquai and Stereo MC’s, among others.
ONGROOVEBOTH
OF BORDERNORTHERNTHE
MARCH/APRIL 2022 | 33 each other’s sentences, but their easy relationship was evident by how they complement one another during the wide-ranging conversation.
DeBoer explained, “We didn’t have any intention of putting out the music that was heavily influenced by the U.K. acid jazz scene, but eventually we amassed a large set of tunes, and our partner in the U.K. said, ‘You should put this into an album and release it in the U.K. Go after the acid jazz crowd.’ That’s what we did with our first record [The Album] in 1997.”
As DeBoer, who plays keyboards, bass and guitar, and percussionist Grace assert, they are producers first and foremost. They have been constantly tweaking the Four80East sound over the course of their 25-year career, which spans eight studio albums, one EP, one remix collection and a live record.
“A lot of that has to do with we are not road warriors,” DeBoer said. “We only do 30 shows a year, usually in the middle of the year. We have been around long enough and have a back catalog to get passive royalty income, so we didn’t have to freak out too much during the pandemic like a lot of artists I know who are more dependent on gigs.”
The set found its way to a smooth jazz radio station in New York and went into heavy rotation.
Their last studio album, 2020’s Straight Round, expanded their aesthetic, adding greater dimension while retaining the breezy vibe that has endeared them to smooth jazz audiences. (They released a more club-oriented remix version of the album, Mixed Up, to bide time during the pandemic.)
The duo said they have survived the devastating toll the COVID-19 crisis has taken on the music industry and continue to thrive despite having to postpone a number of live dates.
The producers, who augment their live shows with a full musical ensemble, claim live shows were not a large part of their plan from the very beginning, especially since they were so involved with their label and other production work.
The Album became a surprise hit with smooth jazz fans, propelled by the single, “Eastside,” which established Four80East as a force with which to be reckoned. Since their debut, the duo has refined and expanded their sound, which owes as much to fusion and rock (echoes of ’70s Jeff Beck) as it does to the classic U.K. groove music the band revered.
The group, which derived its name from their first studio address, is looking forward to playing a number of smooth jazz festivals this year, including the 31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest and the 23rd Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival in April. “I enjoy festivals,” DeBoer said. “We’ve played Berks a couple of times––it’s been fun. Festivals encompass everything we love about smooth jazz, which is the community. It’s like family reunions at them. This year it will be a bit somber at Berks, though, considering it comes on the heels of losing Nick Colionne so unexpectedly [the much-loved guitarist died on New Year’s Day this year]. That will probably be weighing on Aftereveryone.”along pause, Grace added: “I enjoy it when everyone shows up at the hotels, and you run across all of your old friends. It’s less pressure for us than club dates because we don’t have to worry about tickets. There’s a built-in audience. We have the diehard fans who know us well, and we know them, but there’s people who didn’t come for us and are like, ‘Oh man, I’ve never heard you before, and we lovedTheyou.’”musicians’ warm rapport reflects their creative relationship, which they say has been smooth and extremely productive despite working together for a quarter of a century. That is quite rare “I enjoy festivals. We’ve played Berks a couple of times––it’s been fun. Festivals encompass everything we love about smooth jazz, which is the community.”
continued on page 34
“For the first four or five years, we didn’t tour,” Grace added. “We hoped we could get away without it because we had young families. But then the bottom dropped out of the music industry around 2000, and we were like ‘OK, we need to get a real job,’ and that’s when we did more touring and production work for film and television. Then things settled down in the industry, and we were back in the saddle.”
The duo’s music hit the smooth jazz market accidentally and without the band courting the genre’s audiences.
“We switched gears, and the U.S. became our market for the music,” DeBoer continued. “We didn’t consider ourselves smooth jazz, so we just kept our focus on making the music we wanted, and luckily it still found a home with smooth jazz listeners to keep us going in that circuit. It’s been great and something that has sustained us.”
DeBoer asserted that there isn’t much downtime.
MAY 4 Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival
Panama City Beach, www.seabreezejazzfestival.comFlorida
“There’s a lot of overlap between our influences, and we have pretty much the same instincts about things, and our musical relationship goes beyond Four80. We’ve been working together doing our dance label since 1991. If we’re not in the studio creating, we’re working on administrative things or chasing people who owe us money or dealing with film clearances.”
MAY 7 Jazz on the Vine The Osthoff Resort Elkhart Lake, www.jazzonthevine.netWisconsin
DoubleTree by Hilton Reading Reading, www.berksjazzfest.comPennsylvania
“We decided after the first record, we were going to split everything down the middle publishing-wise. Look at Paul McCartney and John Lennon—probably the most revered and successful pop songwriters— and they split everything down the road. For us, that seemed obvious.” Both artists maintain active lives outside of Four80East. They have families with grown children, manage their prospering label, produce other artists, and work on film and television scoring. With a new album in the works, they say it doesn’t leave much time for too many activities, but DeBoer enjoys cycling when Toronto is not buried under 2 feet of snow, as it was at the time of the interview. Grace plays golf and hockey, and is looking forward to going sailing this summer.
APRIL 24 23rd Annual Seabreeze Jazz Festival
APRIL 3 31st Annual Boscov’s Berks Jazz Fest
Pine Cliffs Resort Algarve, www.algarve.smoothjazzfestival.de/Portugal
For more information on Four80East, visit https://four80east.com.
AUG. 6 Marcus Anderson’s Jazz AND Coffee Escape Asheville, North jazzandcoffee-escape.netCarolina
Aaron Bessant Park Amphitheater
“If it’s not administrative work and time with our families, we’re making music, and people have been responding to it for a while now. That’s really fulfilling.”
considering how many jazz and pop acts with two main songwriters and producers have imploded due to overinflated egos and creativeWhendifferences.discussing their songwriting and production work, the duo had a tendency to get in the weeds about the creative process––much of it might be obscure to those unfamiliar with songwriting, studio work and the art of getting the proper sound. It’s easy to understand their business and musical partnership, though. “We’ve always gotten along, and we figured out some of the problems that might arise early on,” DeBoer said.
ON TOURON TOURcontinued from page 33
Grace maintained that the things that usually interfere with partners––songwriting credits and publishing rights––were ironed out once Four80East got off the ground.
34 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS
MARCH/APRIL 2022 | 35 Concert and festival season beckons. And, the CDC recommends that every eligible person, especially within our demographic, get vaccinated so we can enjoy live music and our smooth jazz lifestyle together again! SEARCH www.vaccines.gov/ TEXT your ZIP code to 438829 CALL 1-800-232-0233 to find vaccine locations near you. WE’RE VACCINATED! MINDI ABAIR JEFF LORBER It’s never been easier. COVID-19 vaccines are free and widely available. RICK BRAUN RICHARD ELLIOT PETER WHITE StollLoriPhoto: ERIC DARIUS VINCENT INGALA KIRK WHALUM FaunaTheDescribePhoto: BONEY JAMES GERALD ALBRIGHT DixonAnthonyPhoto: JONATHAN BUTLER NaikRajPhoto: BRIAN BROMBERG NaikRajPhoto: ERIC MARIENTHAL PeckColinPhoto: DAVE KOZ EUGE GROOVE STEVE COLE RiceAaronPhoto:
Our prayers, and continued fundraising efforts, are with the Mondragon families, Damon Reel and the entire DW3 band and crew. To donate to the GoFundMe campaign, please visit https://gofund.me/d7a4c104
36 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS continued from page 8
DW3: Billy Mondragon, Eric Mondragon and Damon Reel
“DW3 has been a very important part of The Smooth Jazz Cruise for many years, and with the great generosity of people like Michael Lazaroff and many, many others, this GoFundMe campaign so far has been extremely successful.”
“I noticed that Billy had been struggling to sing,” said Hardwick. “So, I asked him what was wrong. He’s a very private person, so it took awhile for him to share everything he had going on. That’s when I knew we had to help. So, Laurie and I decided to host a benefit concert here at Spaghettini.”
When the campaign went live on Feb. 14, Hardwick donated $3,000, followed by Lazaroff’s $10,000 contribution. In less than 24 hours, it grew to more than $34,000 raised toward its $100,000 goal.
Hardwick called Billy to tell him the good news. “Billy was overwhelmed with appreciation,” Hardwick said. Then he recalled a bittersweet comment Billy made: “‘This is the first time I’ve spent Valentine’s Day without Irma.’” Between their rapidly mounting medical bills and their recent inability to work as they normally do, Eric, Billy and vocalist Damon Reel are slowly emerging from this dire situation. As the Mondragon brothers continue to heal and recover from their health issues, they plan to perform select dates with DW3 at Spaghettini, but on a limited schedule.
Hopefully, when the benefit concert takes place on March 22, Irma’s condition will have improved, and there will be celebrating along with more fundraising. Pat Prescott, 94.7 The WAVE’s on-air personality, is scheduled to host the show featuring Marienthal, surprise smooth jazz stars and other special guests. Hardwick said that proceeds from all ticket sales will be given to the Mondragons and Reel, who plan to attend the event.
Although this concert has sold-out, if you are interested in donating to these beloved artists during this difficult time, contributions of any amount can be made to their GoFundMe account.
For more information on DW3 (the moniker for “Down With 3”), visit www.dw3music.net. To donate to their GoFundMe campaign, please visit https://gofund.me/d7a4c104.
StudioBlairErinPhoto:
“I have been playing at Spaghettini for a very long time, and Cary Hardwick has become a good friend,” said Marienthal. “Cary had the idea of putting on a fundraising concert for DW3, and I was more than happy to help. I had also been involved with a GoFundMe campaign for a friend last year and thought that DW3 could really benefit from a similar campaign, especially knowing how many fans and friends they have in our music community who would be eager to help.
Meanwhile, our prayers, and continued fundraising efforts, are with the Mondragon families, Damon Reel and the entire DW3 band and crew.
Hardwick immediately called multi-Grammy-nominated saxophonist Eric Marienthal, who is close friends with DW3, and asked him to help organize the band and artists.
MARCH/APRIL 2022 | 37 Note: Shipping and handling are additional. California residents are charged sales tax. SHIRTS • TANKS • JACKETS • HATS GETON!YOUR REDUCEDPRICESonselectedmerchandise HOODIES HATS FLEECE JACKET M, L, XL ... $40 2X, 3X ... $50Black, White, Denim, Khaki ... $20 S, M, L & XL ... $30 2X ... $35 3X, 4X & 5X ... $40 Also available in NEW!
BOOK REVIEW
You have been experiencing multiple family disruptions lately. This is the perfect time to finally listen to the advice of others. Remember, there are folks in your family who have the wisdom and experience to look dispassionately at the situation and to offer assistance.
The Double Life of Bob Dylan: A Restless, Hungry Feeling, 1941-1966” by Clinton Heylin Little, Brown and Co. 2021 • 496 pages • $30
You have big plans to make a getaway, but you are getting flak from family and friends. They feel you may be taking too large of a risk. It is time to do something you don’t normally like. Calmly review all sides of the issue before deciding.
Virgo Aug. 23 - Sept. 22 Exciting adventures may appeal to you right now. You are wanting to have a blowout celebration, but your wallet may disagree. Make sure you can truly support the costs that will come your way, and then make the correct decision.
Libra Sept. 23 - Oct. 22
Aries March 21 - April 19
Scorpio Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
You are an expert in taking care of practical matters, and you have a great gift for organization. Now might be a suitable time to share your talents with others. Everyone can benefit from usable hints to make life easier. It is your time to shine.
Clinton Heylin is a well-known Bob Dylan expert and has written several other books documenting the music legend. Dylan sold his personal archive to the George Kaiser Family Foundation, reportedly for $22 million in 2016. Heylin pored over this newly releasedThroughinformation.hisenormous amount of research, the author discovered corrections to stories told by other writers and by Dylan himself, which he includes in this tome that concentrates on the period from 1941 to 1966. He covers Dylan’s youth, his move to New York City, his meteoric successes and his mysterious motorcycle accident.
You have a big family celebration coming up, and there are several differing opinions on the details and the money required for the festivities. Choose your battles carefully because this could really ruin your whole experience.
In New York, he was everywhere—meeting as many performers as possible, listening to music and soaking up every song he heard. But he kept explanations of his background vague with his new friends. Fellow folk singer Dave Van Ronk recalls, “You never could pin him down on anything. He had a lot of stories about who he was and where he came from, he never seemed to be able to keep them straight.”
It looks like your gift of gab and natural charm are going to serve you well. Make sure you do not take it too far and let slip information that should not be shared. Keep your excellent powers of persuasion to do good and not for gossip.
38 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS
Gemini May 21 - June 21
There are opportunities on the horizon for you. Do not dismiss them by thinking that they are inconsequential. You will be able to build on these opportunities to make substantial changes in your life. Think positively and move ahead with your ideas.
Reviewed by Darcy Peters
Capricorn Dec. 22 - Jan. 19
Pisces Feb. 19 - March 20
As Dylan became more popular, he met producer John Hammond, who worked with him on his first album. Hammond later recalled, “Bob Dylan is a great and original artist, I doubt that he has ever been sincere in his life.” Heylin also describes Dylan’s romantic adventures, including his complicated relationship with Joan Baez. While word spread about the quirky singer, Albert Grossman appointed himself as his manager. Dylan started writing his own songs and used his boundless energy to complete compositions for a second album. But the young artist seemed conflicted about being known as just a folk singer and not a rock ’n’ roll star. Heylin ends the book in the early ’70s when Dylan was touring with The Band, and when they were filming their own documentary, “Down in the Flood: Bob Dylan, The Band & the Basement Tapes.” The combination of touring and filming exhausted the singer. Robert Shelton wrote at the time, “At twenty-four, he already has a prematurely tired, wizened look.”
On July 29, 1966, he reportedly crashed his Triumph motorcycle on some twisty road near Woodstock, New York, although there is no official record of it. Soon, Dylan quit speaking with the press and became more reclusive, holed up at friends’ homes for months, drastically reshaping the rocket ride of his career.“
You may be feeling some pressures at the job right now. Do not let these consume your time completely because your relationship requires attention as well. Work on communication issues with both a co-worker and your significant other.
Others around you seem to be in the dumps. Your friends and family look like they’re mighty depressed about life. It may be difficult, but take on the challenge and cheer these folks up with reminders of all your happy times past and hopes for more in the future.
Do you feel like just sitting outside and reading a book? Or giving your time to help others by volunteering? Good news, you can do both. Your time is precious, but by using your excellent powers of organization to arrange the appropriate schedule, this is possible.
Sagittarius Nov. 22 - Dec. 21
CASHMIRA’SSTARGUIDE
Taurus April 20 - May 20
Cancer June 22 - July 22 Unsettling responses from your family are making you question some of your decisions. Suddenly, people are interested in your plans and ideas. Stay close to home with your approval needs, and let the others know you appreciate their interest.
Leo July 23 - Aug. 22
Aquarius Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
Born Robert Allen Zimmerman on May 24, 1941, in Duluth, Minnesota, he changed his last name to Dylan in 1962. In his teens, he was known for his love of rock ’n’ roll and female companionship. After dropping out of college, he traveled to New York, where he continuously hustled for floors to sleep on and connections to the burgeoning folk music scene. He became a huge Woody Guthrie fan and made several visits to the venerable singer who was living in a mental institution.
Oh brother, family strife is on the rise. Quarrels are abounding, and no one seems to be able to stop them. It is time to take a familial deep breath and move to your own corners. You should step away from the fray now and wait it out.
MARCH | APRIL 2022
April 1-10, TicketsReading,2022PAonsaleNOWat berksjazzfest.com 31ST ANNUAL presented by JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER ORCHESTRA with WYNTON MARSALIS GREGORY PORTER BRIAN JOEYMYBÉLAFOUR80EASTSPECIALFRIENDSDAVIDMARCUSCULBERTSONANDERSONSANBORN&EFXALL-STARSFLECK:BLUEGRASSHEARTDEFRANCESCOTRIO ERIC NAJEESELWYNREBECCADARIUSJADEBIRCHWOOD with special guests BOBBY LYLE, CHRIS WALKER BONEY JAMES JAKE READINGSHIMABUKUROPOPSORCHESTRA and THE ROYAL SCAM PETER WHITE & VINCENT INGALA with special guest MINDI ABAIR JOHN NÉMETH NICK COLIONNE’S FRIENDS: A SALUTE TO NICO RICK BRAUN & GERALD ALBRIGHT CHRIS “BIG DOG” DAVIS presents CELEBRATING THE WOMEN IN JAZZ featuring PATTI AUSTIN, MAYSA, LINDSEY WEBSTER and more INSPIRATIONS! EVERETTE HARP & ANDY SNITZER GREGG KARUKAS’ HAMMOND B3 ORGAN GROUP NORMAN BROWN CHUCK LOEB MEMORIAL ALL-STAR JAM featuring RICK BRAUN, GERALD VEASLEY, BRIAN BROMBERG and more SF JAZZ COLLECTIVE ... and many more!
