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AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2022 | 3 Presented by Rainbow Promotions, LLC in association with Robbie Todd Productions LLC September 2-3, 2022 SMALE RIVERFRONT PARK For Tickets and Information (562) 424-0013 | rainbowpromotions.com #CincyIntlJazz All acts and times are subject to change without prior notice. BRIAN CULBERTSON GERALD ALBRIGHT DAMIEN ESCOBAR KEIKO MATSUI MAYSA BRIAN SIMPSON ERIC ROBERSON NESTOR TORRESJACKIEM JOYNER September 2-3, 2022 AVERY*SUNSHINE NORMAN BROWN ALEX BUGNON
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AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2022 | 5
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NOTICE: Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and evolving government and health officials’ mandates, all events, lineups, venues, dates and show times contained in editorial and/or advertisements within this magazine are subject to change without notice. Smooth Jazz News assumes no responsibility for any cancellations or changes or the accuracy of any concert, cruise, brunch or festival information contained in this publication in advertisements and/or editorial, which has been provided by outside sources. Please contact each venue and/or promoter directly to confirm all information.
The inaugural Cincinnati International Jazz Festival is scheduled for Sept. 2-3 at Smale Riverfront Park. For information on this and other events happening in August and September, check out the calendar section, beginning on page 22. Cascading waterfall at Smale Riverfront Park in Cincinnati, Ohio
As we ease back into post-pandemic life, will publish five issues of Smooth Jazz in 2022: March-April, May-June, July, August-September and October-November-December. plan to resume our standard seven-issue publication schedule in 2023
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reserved Smooth-Jazz @SmoothJazzNewsNews/123513291125001 8 Notes from the Publisher Music and art are joy everlasting, especially at Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters 11 DISCover New Music Freshen up your summer soundtrack with these new tunes 12 Catalina Island Travel Planning Guide It’s a breeze to travel to Catalina Island 14 Marcus Anderson The multi-instrumentalist is featured
Summer horoscopes 31 Smooth
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©2022, Smooth rights on Brian Culbertson’s tour, performing with his own band celebrating his fourth annual coffeethemed festival genre-bending group Notes: On Creativity” Jones Weeknd Starguide Jazz seven print issues of Smooth Jazz mailbox
CONTENTS
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Jazz News | All
AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2022 | 7 Learn More & Purchase Wine Today Exclusive Fine Wines From Top CA Regions 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 I Can’t Wait FOR CHRISTMAS MINDI ABAIR’S TOUR 2022Featuring Lindsey Webster Adam Hawley Vincent Ingala Mindi Abair 11.28 SEAL BEACH, CA 12.1 ANNAPOLIS, MD 12.2 PITTSBURGH, PA 12.3 READING, PA 12.8 PHOENIX, AZ 12.9 DENVER, CO 12.10 CINCINNATTI, OH 12.11 CHARLOTTE, NC 12.13 PUNTA GORDA, FL 12.14 PONTE VEDRA BEACH, FL 12.15 STUART, FL 12.16 BOCA RATON, FL 12.17 CLEARWATER, FL 12.18 ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, FL 12.20 SAN DIEGO, CA 12.21 RANCHO CUCAMONGA, CA By Mindi Abair
A week earlier, we had published the August-September issue of Smooth Jazz News, and Janet had helped us with the subscription mailing, as she’d been doing for five years. So, I thought an invitation to the festival and pageant would be a nice treat for her and also give me an opportunity to pay closer attention to some alarming behavior I’d recently noticed her displaying.
That year, the 90-minute spectacle of music, storytelling and grand illusions was as spine-tingling as ever. Longtime pageant director Diane Challis Davy and veteran scriptwriter Dan Duling included their signature gasp-inducing surprises that popped up unexpectedly during the stage show of tableaux vivants, or “living pictures.”
As Janet and I entered the Irvine Bowl behind the art show, the black curtain of the orchestra pit beneath the stage was open. We watched the 26-piece band warming up to perform original scores.
8 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS
Each time, we also stayed for Pageant of the Masters––a magnificent theatrical production that replicates famous classical and contemporary masterpieces of art staged by an all-volunteer cast in full makeup and custom-made costumes. They are posed to look exactly like their counterparts in the original pieces, with large-scale, intricate sets and sophisticated lighting.
While sitting at her desk slapping labels onto envelopes, stuffing magazines into them and listening to smooth jazz CDs, Janet asked, believe in the healing power of music and the moodenhancing magic of art. When combined, they can offer an exquisite life experience, especially for those with dementia or other neurocognitive disorders. The Festival of Arts and its crown jewel, Pageant of the Masters, strengthened that belief for me.
The indelible imprint of musical memories I
Chris Standring performing at Festival of Arts’ Art, Jazz, Wine and Chocolate series in July 2018
During my last visit in 2019, I invited my friend Janet to join me. I planned our outing on a day of the festival’s Art, Wine, Jazz and Chocolate series featuring Gregg Karukas. After the concert, we browsed more than a hundred exhibits from some of Orange County’s finest artists displaying a variety of media, from sculpture, ceramics, jewelry and glass to paintings, photography, handcrafted wood and more. Janet had eyed a beautiful emerald ring there in 2018, when we attended Chris Standring’s performance at Art, Jazz, Wine and Chocolate, and she was hoping to buy it on this trip.
If you’ve never attended this dual event in Laguna Beach, California, which also includes daily music performances, art classes and tours, workshops and a red-carpet celebrity benefit––this year hosted by Priscilla Presley, with a concert featuring multi-Grammywinner Arturo Sandoval––it’s so splendidly unusual that words cannot do it justice. But I will try by recalling one of my many visits to this summertime highlight, now in its 90th year, which kicked off on July 5 and runs through Sept. 2.
At 8:30 p.m. sharp, after the sun had set and the moon rose above us, the curtain closed, and the live narration began. We sat there entranced, watching art come to life.
PerezMeghanPhoto: Gregg Karukas performing his GK Soul Jazz Party at Festival of Arts’ Art, Jazz, Wine and Chocolate series last month in Laguna Beach, California
| SEPTEMBER 2022 | 9
Photo: Christopher AllwinePhoto:CourtesyofFestivalofArts
I put a Gregg Karukas disc on next, which also caught Janet’s attention. “Who’s this?” she asked. I told her it was Karukas. “Ooh, I like him,” she gushed. I told her that I planned to see him at Festival of Arts in a few weeks, and when I asked her if she wanted to go with me, a resounding yes followed. She was ecstatic. A true Gemini, Janet straddled life as a physical being while simultaneously delving into various spiritual realms. On her Facebook page “Works at” section, she listed “Cosmic World Bridger,” but in her 9-to-5 life she was a retired executive assistant and bookkeeper.
• Although there are more dementias.diseasetolikelyHispanicsAfricanUnitedethnicofdementiasAlzheimer’swhitesnon-HispaniclivingwithandotherthanpeopleanyotherracialorgroupintheStates,olderAmericansandaremorethanolderwhiteshaveAlzheimer’sandother
AUGUST location. I sent a friend to get her, and when she finally arrived, she said, “Oh, so this is your house? I drove past it several times, but it didn’t look familiar.” Within minutes, however, jovial, coherent Janet was back, bobbing her head to smooth jazz Christmas music and singing along to the lyrics of holiday songs on Nat King Cole and Tony Bennett CDs. She animatedly retold her experience at the Festival of Arts, Pageant of the Masters, the Karukas concert, and how the emerald ring she’d hoped to buy wasn’t in the artist’s showcase that year. Her recall wasOverimpeccable.time,Janet’s memory worsened. A car crash left her with a broken leg and ribs and a long stay in a nursing facility, where she was also diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. When she finally returned home, a stroke and heart attack followed in quick succession. My dear friend of 30 years passed away a few days after her 77th birthday. Since then, I’ve learned a lot about the disease––and the positive impact music can have. According to the Mayo Clinic, research suggests that listening to music and singing songs provide emotional and behavioral benefits for people with Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia. Musical memories are often preserved in people with Alzheimer’s because key brain areas linked to musical memory are relatively undamaged by the disease. Additional research has shown that music helps reduce heart rate, lower blood pressure and cortisol in the body, eases anxiety and can help improve mood for everyone. I will always cherish the memories of introducing Janet to smooth jazz music and events, and I’m especially grateful for the healing role this genre played in her life and the joy it gave her. I am also comforted by the feeling that she is in heaven living an eternal life of adventure and savoring her best memories, including those enchanting outings to the Festival of Arts and Pageant of the Masters. “When will the magazines be delivered?” I said, “What do you mean? They’re here now. You’re working on the mailing.” She sunk quietly back into her task. About 20 minutes later, she stopped and looked confused. I went over to see if she needed help, and she said, “I’m not sure what I’m supposed to do here.” I explained that she needed to keep doing what she had been doing. She stared at me blankly. So, I showed her how to affix labels to the envelopes, insert the magazines and moisten the gummed flap to seal each one. “Are you OK?” I asked. “I’m fine!” she snapped, in a tone uncommon for her. (Later, I heard from dozens of subscribers reporting that they received a sealed envelope with no magazine.) However, she perked up when I played a Chris Standring CD, asking, “Didn’t we see him at that art show in Laguna Beach last year?” Yes, we had.
An active member of the Clairemont Lutheran Church in San Diego since the fifth grade, Janet also spent many Friday nights singing and chanting with fellow Sai Baba devotees. And, she participated in their efforts to feed the homeless in Downtown San Diego each Sunday after praising the Lord during morning services at the Lutheran Church. Then, during the holidays, Janet called me in sheer panic. She couldn’t find my home––a destination she’d been to many times, a mere 2 miles from her own––for my annual cookie party. She was parked on a street a block away, confused about her
Backstage at Pageant of the Masters, a costume designer prepares a volunteer for her part in the show Irvine Bowl during Pageant of the Masters performance
The demographics of Alzheimer’s disease Every 67 seconds, someone in America develops Alzheimer’s disease, the most common form of dementia. It is estimated that nearly 500,000 new cases of Alzheimer’s will be diagnosed this year.
• Of the approximately 7 million Americans with Alzheimer’s, an estimated 6.5 million people are age 65 or older, and approximately 200,000 individuals are under age 65 Alzheimer’s).(younger-onset
• Almost two-thirds of Americans with Alzheimer’s are women. Of people age 65 or older with Alzheimer’s in the United States, 3.2 million are women and 1.9 million are men.
10 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS •ARTIST FEATURES •FESTIVAL & CONCERT LINEUPS •CRUISES ENGAGE WITH US! www.smoothjazznews.com Smooth-Jazz@SmoothJazzNewsNews/123513291125001 STAY CONNECTED to the latest on the smooth jazz scene with Smooth Jazz News
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AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2022 | 11
It is sure to be a bright light in the music world!
AvAilAble At: www.amazon.com, iTunes, https://music.apple. com, https://cdbaby.com/ and other online retailers Website: www.kimscottmusic.com
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.
AvAilAble At: www.Amazon.com, iTunes.com and all major online retailers
Jackson’s new music is asking you one thing … Are you “In Style?”
• 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! 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
AyRon Lewis composed the music to this song 10 years ago. He recently asked if I could write lyrics for it, and in 45 minutes I had the hook. We are fortunate to have Tom Braxton and Doc Powell playing with us. I feel like that is where I am in life now since losing my wife. I’m “Starting All Over Again.”
AvAilAble At: https://centroplexrecords.com/DouglasJackson.html and all major streaming services Website: https://douglasajackson.hearnow.com/in-style
brothers Wayne and Nelson Braxton, whose 25-year career started with a No. 1 hit, are topping the charts again! “Catalina Nights,” currently No. 3 on Billboard’s national airplay chart, with a bullet, is up-tempo, ’80s R&B-inspired, melodic and infectiously grooving.
DOUGLAS A. JACKSON
With such success on-air, “Catalina Nights” will now take the live stage, with new tour dates being added.
Website: www.thebraxtonbrothers.com
PAUL JACKSON, JR.
• “In Style-Radio Mix” (single) (Centroplex Records)“InStyle” is the new release by trumpeter Douglas A. Jackson. This new style to smooth jazz has sounds from pop culture, world beats, East and West. In essence, there is something for every listener.
GIL•“Starting All Over Again” (single) (Gilbert Steven Johnson)Myproducer
• SHINE! (Innervision Records)
• “Catalina Nights” (single) (Braxton Productions)Twin
AvAilAble At: All retail outlets and at www.gilsings.com Website: www.gilsings.com
Stompin’ Willie presents More Stories, Part 1, the new EP from legendary guitarist Paul Jackson, Jr., is out now. It includes the hit single “Love Like This.” “Jeff Lorber, Everette Harp and I were playing at a festival and during sound check, I started playing the guitar part of ‘Love Like This’ by Faith Evans. Jeff said, ‘You need to record that song.’ And, so I did, and featured him on my version. Also featured is my daughter Lindsey on vocals,” Jackson explained. AvAilAble At: All digital music platforms and www.PaulJacksonJr.com Website: www.PaulJacksonJr.com
• STOMPIN’ WILLIE PRESENTS MORE STORIES, PART 1 (M and P Music Factory, Inc.)
Advertisement: To inquire about placement, call 858-541-1919 or email smoothjazzads@aol.com.
KIM SCOTT
BRAXTON BROTHERS
WILLIE BRADLEY
Getting there Catalina Express offers 30 daily departures from ports in Long Beach, San Pedro and Dana Point, California. On Friday, Saturday and Sunday, special after-performance boat departures are available from Avalon back to Long Beach. www.CatalinaExpress.com800-995-4386
Built in 1990, Omeo Casa Mariquita is among the newest built of all Catalina Island hotels. Its modern luxury encapsulates quaint and compelling OldWorld Spanish styling. Although conveniently located right in the town of Avalon and less than a block from the beach, with restaurants, shopping and
Are you considering your first trip to the Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival in October? Each year, we publish this guide to dispel any mystery of traveling to the island. The festival venue is in Avalon, the island’s only city. It’s a 22-mile cross-channel trip on the Pacific Ocean from the mainland to Avalon. Here are some tips that will get you launched on a magical musical getaway.
12 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS CATALINA ISLAND JAZZTRAXFESTIVAL OPENING WEEKEND OCT. 13-16 CLOSING WEEKEND OCT. 20-23 OCTOBER35th 2022 866-TRAX-TIX FULL ARTIST LINE-UP, TICKETS & LINKS FOR BOAT/HOTELS: DAVEKOZ NORMANBROWN ABAIRMINDI WHITEPETER JACKSONPAUL JR. JAZMINGHENT SANBORNDAVID ESCOBARDAMIEN Chris Standring, Richard Elliot, Peet Project, Eric Darius, Lindsey Webster & Adam Hawley, Greg Adams and East Bay Soul, Jessy J, Blake Aaron, Daniel Ho, Randal Clark, Mark Jaimes, Jeff Ryan, Justin Lee Schultz, Christian de Mesones, Gino Rosaria, David Benoit and the Midnight Rendezvous Big Band and more!
By Melanie Maxwell
Staying there
BoissyDanPhoto: sightseeing all within a five-minute walk, this hotel is away from the busy main street. Rooms start at $199. Call 626-775-7788 to book now. 229 Metropole Ave., Avalon, California www.omeocatalina.com • 310-510-1192
Catalina Island is welcoming you back to adventure, relaxation and inspiration. With 3 convenient port locations and up to 30 departures daily, your voyage to paradise is now boarding. San Pedro - Long Beach - Dana Point CATALINAEXPRESS.COM | 800.838.6685 Set Sail to Catalina Island Advertorial listings are provided by each advertiser.
AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2022 | 13
Omeo Hotel Catalina is located steps from the bay! Built in 1916, Omeo Hotel Catalina is a historic blue and white Victorian landmark that can be seen when entering the harbor. Quietly nestled a few doors from Avalon Bay, this Catalina Island lodging offers all the charm and hospitality of Catalina’s yesteryear, yet you will feel right at home with all the modern amenities and conveniences of today. This AAA-approved property features large verandas with harbor views, a garden courtyard, lounge area and gas barbecue, partial ocean views, deluxe mountain views, standard and terrace rooms, family cottages, flat-screen TVs, DVD, cable, internet and more. Rooms start at $158. Call 626-775-7788 to book now. 129 Whittley Ave., Avalon, California www.omeohotelcatalina.com • 310-510-0027
CATALINA EXPRESS
saxophonist has sweetrhythms that swing,sway and soar
By Ken Capobianco
If that wasn’t enough to keep him busy, the multihyphenate has created his own comic book and motion picture graphic with music-related superheroes, TheAsCreatives.DonnaSummer might have said, he works hard for his“It’smoney.difficult to balance these things with regular life,” the father of two daughters said recently via phone. “It’s time-consuming and tiring, but also very fulfilling. Obviously, being a musician is a priority, and something I love, but I also want to do these other things––they have become very important. If you have the opportunity and energy, why not?”
It’s vintage Anderson, brimming with sweet melodies, as he blends his soul, jazz, R&B and gospel influences into an original and compelling set of brisk, energetic jazz. As with all of the saxophonist’s records, the songs are bright and innovative with a pulsing rhythmic core anchoring the dynamic musical interplay, which allows the saxophonist plenty of room to swing, sway and soar. He’s an extremely intuitive, nuanced player who serves the songs without grandstanding or losing focus. Each one of his most recent records has revealed a different side of his personality. Hero (2020) was bold,
The first thing on Anderson’s plate right now is his brand-new album, Reverse.
The MirandaMélisaPhoto:
Contemporary jazz saxophonist Marcus Anderson is wearing a lot of hats these days. The 37-year-old musician, who has emerged as one of jazz’s rising stars, is not merely content with his ascending status in the music world. He has turned into an entrepreneur with his own line of coffee, AND Coffee, and a coffeeshop, Trax Coffee Bar, in Rocky Mount, North Carolina. He has added a new title in recent years––producer and host of his own music festival, Marcus Anderson’s Jazz AND Coffee Escape, which unfolds in Asheville, North Carolina, Aug. 5-6.
Marcus Anderson
14 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS
“I have been working with Brian for the last three years––he offers me a feature spot in his band and lets me play my own music and get co-billing. I’m not in the band as much as a featured artist. It’s a great experience working with and learning from him.”
The former sideman for an array of artists, including the demanding legend Prince, Sheila E. and Anthony Hamilton, claims he absorbs a lot from working with Culbertson, who is a meticulous craftsman of albums and vibrant stage performer. “Most of the things I learn from Brian are studio and recording things. He makes great records and knows so much about recording. He’s second to none in creating albums. I love his work. I’m not discrediting him at all, but really, everything I learned about the stage and how to work an audience came from Prince.”
My Inspiration Vol. 1 (2016) was introspective, and Reverse finds him in a reflective mood. It was born out of a pensive time in his life where he found himself in a funk––the bad kind. “Reverse started in the middle of the pandemic, and I was in an unusual place,” he admitted. “There were times I was happy and sometimes depressed or just uneasy.
The ambitious saxophonist decided to tread into Iron Man and Wonder Woman territory by creating his own comic and graphic animation, featuring superhero musicians saving the world with creativity as The Creatives. It’s something he’s always been invested in and is quite serious about.
“I went to coffee classes and learned what makes a great coffee. Learn what it is and about the first crack and second crack of the coffee bean. I wanted to know how long it takes, does coffee go bad––everything about it.” He started drinking coffee, a beverage not usually associated with musicians, because he realized he had to wean himself off energy drinks. He used those to stay awake and keep going through grueling recording and rehearsal sessions with Prince.
In addition to the diverse instrumentals, there are a number of songs that utilize vocals from Kenny Lattimore, Aarik Duncan and Anderson’s twin brother, Marcel. “I heard those songs in my head––I could hear a voice––so it was important to capture that to make them work. My brother is on ‘I Choose Love, I Choose You,’ and I could hear Kenny Lattimore on ‘Matter of Time’ because he has that really sultry voice and can bring songs to life.”
AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2022 | 15
“As a kid, I was interested in the superhero world, whether it was Marvel or DC––Batman, Spider-Man or Superman, The Flash––they all fascinated me. I think at some point all kids have a cape or mask and want to be a superhero. I ultimately saw all musicians as superheroes and created a comic.”
The comic was conceived right around the time his last album, Hero, came out. came up with the bright idea of creating my own coffee line because most of the artists in jazz are connected to alcohol lines. Alcohol orcoffeebutsponsorcompaniesjazzfests,thereweren’tanyconnectionsfestivals.”
“When I was with Prince, we were working long hours, and I was trying to stay up, so I was downing a lot of energy drinks. When I moved on to coffee, I noticed I was creating a lot while enjoying the coffee. My dad always told me, ‘If you enjoy something, it will never become work.’
“I had so much free time, so I just had to sit with myself. I faced a lot of things maybe I had been avoiding––life, changes, getting older, even though I’m only 37.” He took a few moments to gather his thoughts. “I found I was writing myself out of an interesting mental space I’d never been in. As musicians, music is always our outlet, but when we were shut down there was only so much music I could do at home. Not being able to perform, and just doing virtual shows felt robotic without an audience.
Anderson said he has a great relationship with his brother, which has spilled over to their creative lives as Marcel often appears in the saxophonist’s live“Weshows.create and do a lot together and do a number of shows. Growing up, we were always close. Throughout the years, you always have that competitiveness in order to be noticed, to separate yourself from each other, but there was and is always love at the same time.” Anderson has been on tour with Brian Culbertson this year, and he said it’s always a fulfilling and creative endeavor when the two go on the road.
A few years ago, Anderson made a big leap to branch out into the coffee business with his own coffee line and the first Trax Coffee Bar. He didn’t go into the business blind, though––Anderson did his homework before starting each venture. The first thing the graduate of North Carolina Central University did was go back to school to learn about coffee.
continued on page 16 I
“Once I started my coffee line and business, I wanted to create my own coffee music festival. It’s seemed like the logical thing to do,” he said. “It’s a bit different. I have people working for me and organizing it at this point, but I’m also very handson and approve everything. It’s been fun each year, and it will be even bigger this year.”
“I came up with the bright idea of creating my own coffee line because most of the artists in jazz are connected to alcohol lines. Alcohol companies sponsor jazz fests, but there weren’t any coffee connections or festivals.”
And his own festival, Marcus Anderson’s Jazz AND Coffee Escape was born four years ago. This year, it features Lattimore, Four80East and Steve Oliver, among others. And lots of coffee.
“The album was a process for me to create in a different manner. I took my recording process and creativity and reversed how I record an album. It helped me reverse the effects the pandemic had on me psychologically.” He changed his creative process and wrote the songs to suit the titles he had already conceived instead of naming songs after they were finished. Sometimes, small changes can yield big results.
“You’re always learning and always trying to do better,” he said. “I keep my daughters involved in my music, but I don’t force it on them. The key thing about them is for me to stay active and present in their lives. I want them to be anything they want in life and love what they do. That’s the key.” Juggling all of these creative projects with business and being a dad is a highwire act, but Anderson knows how to keep his priorities straight and maintain focus.
On Tour Aug. Marcus5-6Anderson’s Jazz AND Coffee Escape Wortham Center for the Performing Arts Asheville, North https://jazzandcoffee-escape.net/Carolina
SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS “When I was working on it in 2020, right before the pandemic, I thought it would be great to create a soundtrack for this comic-motion graphic, so the music became just that––the soundtrack for my motion graphic comic book,” he explained. “It all came together––I always try to find a way to cross-market things I’m working on.” It’s not easy for Anderson to be so heavily involved in all these projects and still be a vital presence for his two daughters (12 and 14), but he is doing his best.
For more information on Anderson, including his complete tour schedule, visit www.marcusanderson.net. continued from page 15
MirandaMélisaPhoto:
H
“The way I do it is by talking to God––he tells you everything you need to know. We’re all here for a purpose, and we all mean something. That’s what I try to keep in mind. Some people don’t, and that’s when you lose sight of what it is you’re supposed to do, and why you are here. But you always have to keep God first.”
Sept. 8
e changed his creative process and wrote the songs to suit the titles he had already conceived instead of naming songs after they were finished. Sometimes, small changes can yield big results.
16 |
Nov. 12 Jazz Legacy Foundation Decade of Excellence Part 2 Hampton Roads Convention Center Hampton, https://jazzlegacyfoundation.org/Virginia
Brian Culbertson’s 4th Annual Chicago Jazz Getaway Buddy Guy’s Legends Chicago, www.chicagojazzgetaway.comIllinois
AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2022 | 17 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:
Photo: Ken Fong
HIROSHIMA
At the Americanvanguardpop-jazz
By Ken Capobianco of the language
18 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS
of
enriching
“When I grew up, the only things I saw that were Asian were negative stereotypes, so it was important for us to create a band that presented a more honest sense of Asian,” Kuramoto said.
AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2022 | 19
The much-heralded band, led by multi-instrumentalist Dan Kuramoto and world-class koto player June Kuramoto, are currently on what they’ve dubbed the “Domo” tour. It’s a thank-you celebration for their fans (domo is “thank you” in Japanese)––for supporting the genre-bending act that helped introduce Japanese instrumentation like the koto, shakuhachi and taiko to Western pop music.
The band have had a remarkable run. While they were never major stars in pop or jazz, they have been popular, selling over 4 million records and garnering three gold albums. The group have made challenging, intricate music that blended Eastern and Western influences in a way that had not been previously attempted.
W
When they started, both he and June Kuramoto (they were previously married before splitting and continuing on as creative partners) understood that there was a genuine void in pop music and an erasure of Asian presence and sensibility.
For the enduring, boundary-breaking and inventive jazz-popR&B act Hiroshima, the time has come for an indefinite hiatus as they ponder their future.
“We knew, at our best, we would never be The Beatles, but we had our own cultural point to make. We stayed with it, even as the band evolved. At this point, though, June went through a series of things––she broke her back last year––and the pandemic gave us some pause for“Wethought.changed agencies, and right now new markets are opening up for us, but June wanted to take a break, and it made sense.”
Founded in the early 1970s, Hiroshima released their debut album, Hiroshima, in 1979 at the height of disco, heavy metal and the further expansion of jazz experimentation. Although they have been embraced by the jazz community throughout most of their tenure, Hiroshima began more as a pop-R&B band with a mission to infuse their Japanese musical and cultural influences into the mainstream, and establish Asian representation in a pop world where Asian musicians were mostly invisible.
“We are not necessarily a band that can be categorized and never have been,” said Kuramoto. “That’s why we never expected to be wildly popular, but we wanted to make a multicultural statement and introduce a component that was specifically Asian––June was born in Japan, and I’m third-generation Japanese American.”
As they celebrate on tour four decades of uplifting, soulful music with a purpose, they want to emphasize that this is definitely not sure what the future holds––I’m sure we will play again together, but what we know is we are going on hiatus now, and it feels right,” said Los Angeles native and Hiroshima’s co-founder Dan Kuramoto, via phone in a wide-ranging interview covering many topics, including the band’s history, pop music, cultural identity, the divide in America and the importance of community in our lives.
They created transformative music, featuring June Kuramoto’s transcendent koto playing, that has enraptured audiences and brought them a devoted international audience. continued on page 20
Hiroshima have been among the vanguard acts in pop-jazz, bringing a fierce social conscience to their complex, yet accessible, Asian-influenced music that has reached across cultural boundaries and elevated the conversation of what American pop music can be.
hen a band succeeds for more than 40 years in the music business, it can come to a crossroads. The group can continue on the familiar lucrative path until the wheels fall off or make a pitstop, take a breath and reconsider the direction of its career.
“We’regoodbye.not
“We are very blessed just to have a band. That was always our intent––a group of people who play and work together conceptually, and to have done something that was kind of different than anyone else was doing,” he continued.
Photo: Ken Fong
“We speak as citizens of this country––June’s uncle fought for the United States and got a Bronze Star for saving his platoon as a sharpshooter for the 442nd Infantry Regiment, which was the most decorated in the war. The point is to level the playing field, and we need to make things right because we care and give a damn.”
The koto––rarely, if ever, used in pop music––is one of the essential elements of the Hiroshima sound. “What June does is extraordinary. What she does on the koto is inexplicable,” Kuramoto said with hints of awe in his voice.
The group, which have shape-shifted with different personnel throughout their 40 years of existence before settling on their current lineup of Dan and June Kuramoto, multi-instrumentalist Danny Yamamoto, keyboardist Kimo Cornwell and bassist Dean Cortez, made a sharp musical turn when they opened for Miles Davis’ tour in 1990. They moved further away from a pop-R&B band with Asian influences and expanded their sound––ultimately morphing into the band smooth jazz audiences recognize today.
“Miles made it very clear that the mission for those of us committed to music is to continually grow and evolve,” Kuramoto said. “And that’s what we did. We’re a lot more jazz-centric now, and a long way from where we started as an eight-piece band with two singers.”
“It is not designed at all to be played in Western diatonic music, and only she can really do it in real time. It’s 6 feet long in the shape of a dragon, and the 13 strings represent the moons in a year. When you are a minority in this country, your native culture is vital to you because you need it for a sense of feeling whole somehow.”
H iroshima have been among the vanguard acts in pop-jazz, bringing a fierce social conscience to their complex, yet musicofelevatedculturalthatAsian-influencedaccessible,musichasreachedacrossboundariesandtheconversationwhatAmericanpopcanbe.
“That was the genesis of the band, and we wanted to make a multicultural political statement, thus the name Hiroshima. We knew that would be wildly unpopular in certain quarters, and we thought, ‘Good, let’s talk about it, and look at what this country has done.’” He emphasized that he and the band didn’t want to place blame on the devastation of Hiroshima and the Japanese prison camps in America that his and June’s parents were confined to during World War II. Rather, they wanted to create dialogue and raise questions about subjects that have long been ignored.
For more information on Hiroshima, including their complete tour schedule, visit www.hiroshimamusic.com.
20 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS As a kid, he recognized that the pop universe didn’t reflect the diversity and eclecticism of his own community.
Yosemite Jazz Train Lewis Creek Amphitheater Fish Camp, www.yosemitejazztrain.comCalifornia
Sept. 10 5th Annual Oxnard Jazz Festival
And they created transformative music, featuring June Kuramoto’s transcendent koto playing, that has enraptured audiences and brought them a devoted international audience.
“I was born and raised in East Los Angeles, a very multicultural neighborhood that was heavily Latino and almost equal parts Black and Jewish along with Asian, and we wanted to have a voice of our own.
Aug. 21 (Trio: Dan Kuramoto, June Kuramoto and Kimo Cornwell)
OnTour continued from page 19 Their fine, expressive 2020 album, 2020, their 17th, might be their last, but Kuramoto is not ruling anything out. He believes the industry has changed so much that making records just isn’t viable. Unless your name is Bruce Springsteen, if you are a musician or band that started recording in the ’70s, albums are either an excuse to keep a never-ending legacy going, or a way to let the public know you still “Howexist.doyou sell a record?” Kuramoto lamented. “Streaming has got you over a barrel. There’s no money there, and it’s exploitive. Obviously, we were never into this for the money––who would call a band Hiroshima if they were into it for the money? But years ago, making records made sense for musicians. It doesn’t anymore. We’ve sold over 4 million records and had several gold ones. That’s pretty good to me.” For now, the future of Hiroshima is a question mark, which is just fine with Kuramoto. “If we could take a turn into what we’d like to do next, it would be into performing arts theater,” he said. “There are a lot of “Inpossibilities.therightsituation, I know we will play again at some point. This is just another part of our evolution. We don’t know what the next step is for June. Whatever she does is a gain for humanity. She’s the greatest koto player in the world––she’s played on over 50 albums and worked on so many film scores. It’s all wide open. Time will tell.”
Oxnard Beach Park Oxnard, www.oxnardjazzfestival.com/California
The band’s legacy up until this point is about great music, trailblazing and making Japanese music, instruments and sensibilities part of the popular music consciousness. “We wanted to be a throughline to the kind of committed, humane music that inspired us and got us into this in the first place,” he reflected. “Offer the multicultural aspect that broadens the culture while elevating our own culture. “We’ve been really blessed and the best thing to do with a blessing is share it with other people.”
AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2022 | 21 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
22 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS featuring Kayla Waters, Steve Oliver, Marcus Johnson & Kenny Lattimore, 7pm, Diana Wortham Theatre, 18 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, North 828-257-4530www.jazzandcoffee-escape.net,Carolina, Euge Groove, 7 & 10pm, Soiled Dove Underground, 7401 E. 1st Ave., Denver, 303-830-9214www.soileddove.com,Colorado, 6 Music Under the Stars presented by New Mexico Jazz Workshop featuring Eric Darius, 7pm, Albuquerque Museum Amphitheater, 2000 Mountain Road N.W., Albuquerque, New www.ericdarius.comMexico, Marcus Anderson’s 4th Annual Jazz AND Coffee Escape featuring Four80East, Marcus Anderson, Vandell Andrew, Ragan Whiteside, Ashley A-Luv Doe, 6pm, Diana Wortham Theatre, 18 Biltmore Ave., Asheville, North 828-257-4530www.jazzandcoffee-escape.net,Carolina,
7 Special EFX featuring Chieli Minucci, 6:30pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,California, Rhythm on the Vine Jazz Concert Series featuring Paul Brown, Darren Rahn & Greg Manning, 7pm, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, 34843 Rancho California Road, Temecula, 844-841-1406www.southcoastwinery.com,California, 11 Festival of Arts presents Art, Jazz, Wine & Chocolate featuring Kleber Jorge, 5:30pm,
Festival of Arts presents Concerts on the Green featuring Down to the Bone, 1pm, 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, California, availableseatingFestivaladmissiongreen/,com/events/concerts-on-the-www.foapom.949-494-1145(FreewithpurchaseofofArtsticket.Limitedinreservedsectionfor$60perperson.)
Jeff Kashiwa, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,California, Brass City Jazz Fest featuring Willie Bradley & more, 2pm, CONCERTS, FESTIVALS AND CRUISES
AUGUST 4 Festival of Arts presents Art, Jazz, Wine & Chocolate featuring Billy Valentine, 5:30pm, 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, availableLimitedover––arepairings––foradmission.purchase1145jazz-wine-chocolate/,www.foapom.com/events/art-California,949-494-(ConcertsarefreewithofFestivalofArtsWine&chocolatethoseaged21&anadditional$20.reservedseatingisforanadditional$50.)
DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com, 5 Marcus Anderson’s 4th Annual Jazz AND Coffee Escape
Grand St. at Library Park, Waterbury, (freehttps://brasscityjazzfest.comConnecticut,admission)
DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com, 12 33rd Annual Long Beach Jazz Festival featuring Robert Glasper, Avery*Sunshine, Justin-Lee Schultz, gates open at 5pm, show begins at 6pm, Rainbow Lagoon Park, 400 E. Shoreline Dr., Long Beach, California, www.longbeach jazzfestival.com, 562-424-0013 Erin Stevenson, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,California, Eric Darius Unleashed Album Release Party, 6:30pm, Palladium Theater, 253 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg, www.ericdarius.comFlorida, 13 Marcus Miller, 7:30pm, The Birchmere, 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, 703-549-7500www.birchmere.com,Virginia, 33rd Annual Long Beach Jazz Festival featuring Ledisi, Average White Band, Gerald Albright, Jonathan Butler, BK Jackson, gates open at 11am, show begins at 1pm, Rainbow Lagoon Park, 400 E. Shoreline Dr., Long Beach, 562-424-0013www.longbeachjazzfestival.com,California,
Thornton Winery’s Champagne Concert Series featuring Mindi Abair & Euge Groove, 7pm, Thornton Winery, 32575 Rancho California Road, Temecula, 951-699-0099www.thorntonwine.com,California, 14 Scottland Concerts presents Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad featuring Vincent Ingala with Arthur Thompson, 3pm, Lewis Creek Amphitheater, 56001 Hwy. 41, Fish Camp, California, YosemiteJazzTrain.com 33rd Annual Long Beach Jazz Festival featuring Sergio Mendes, Damien Escobar, Eric Darius, Kandace Springs, the Al Williams Jazz Society featuring a Salute to Barbara Morrison, gates open at 11am, show begins at 1pm, Rainbow Lagoon Park, 400 E. Shoreline Dr., Long Beach, 562-424-0013www.longbeachjazzfestival.com,California, 18 Festival of Arts presents Art, Jazz, Wine & Chocolate featuring Téka, 5:30pm, 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, California, additionalseatingadditionalthoseWineof(Concertswine-chocolate/,foapom.com/events/art-jazz-www.949-494-1145arefreewithpurchaseFestivalofArtsadmission.&chocolatepairings––foraged21&over––arean$20.Limitedreservedisavailableforan$50.)
continued on page 24 #LBJazzFest Tickets and information: Rainbow Promotions, LLC (562) www.longbeachjazzfestival.com424-001333rdAnnualAUGUST12-14,2022RAINBOWLAGOONPARKEastShorelineDrive•LongBeach,California Benoit Entertainment Group, llc Acts and Times subject to change without notice. Acts and times subject to change without notice FRIDAY | AUGUST 12TH SATURDAY | AUGUST 13TH SUNDAY | AUGUST 14TH Robert Glasper Justin-LeeSchultzAvery*Sunshine Ledisi AWBWhite(AverageBand) AlbrightGerald JonathanButler JacksonBK KandaceSprings Al featuringJazzWilliamsSocietyaSalute to Barbara Morrison MendesSergio EscobarDamien DariusEricMendes Escobar available!CabanasFriday
AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2022 | 23 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, California, additionalseatingadditionalthoseWineof(Concertswine-chocolate/,foapom.com/events/art-jazz-www.949-494-1145arefreewithpurchaseFestivalofArtsadmission.&chocolatepairings––foraged21&over––arean$20.Limitedreservedisavailableforan$50.)
Willie Bradley, 7:30pm, Native Omaha Days, Capitol District Plaza, 1022 Capitol Ave., Omaha, Nebraska, nativeomahadays.org Karen Briggs, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199
Mindi Abair & The Boneshakers, 7pm, Flagstar Strand Theatre for the Performing Arts, 12 N. Saginaw St., Pontiac, Michigan, www.mindiabair.com Rebecca Jade CD-Release party, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,California,
Mountain Brooks Vineyards presents Wine & Jazz Fest featuring Blake Aaron, Dee Lucas & more, noon, Mountain Brook Vineyards, 731 Phillips Dairy Road, Tryon, North Carolina, mountainbrookvineyards.comwww. Jazz Funk Soul featuring Paul Jackson Jr., Jeff Lorber & Everette Harp, 8 &10pm, Blues Alley, 1073 Wisconsin Ave. N.W., Washington, www.bluesalley.comD.C., 21 Scottland Concerts presents Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad featuring Hiroshima (trio), 3pm, Lewis Creek Amphitheater, 56001 Hwy. 41, Fish Camp, www.YosemiteJazzTrain.comCalifornia, Rhythm on the Vine Jazz Concert Series featuring Brian Simpson & Jackiem Joyner, 7pm, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, 34843 Rancho California Road, Temecula, 844-841-1406www.southcoastwinery.com,California, Jazz Funk Soul featuring Paul Jackson Jr., Jeff Lorber & Everette Harp, 8 &10pm, Blues Alley, 1073 Wisconsin Ave. N.W., Washington, www.bluesalley.comD.C., 24 Paul Jackson Jr. & Black Movie Soundtrack IV, 8pm, Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N. Highland Ave., Los Angeles, www.hollywoodbowl.comCalifornia, 25 Peter White, 7:30pm, The Birchmere, 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, 703-549-7500www.birchmere.com,Virginia,
continued from page 23
Jazz Funk Soul featuring Paul Jackson Jr., Jeff Lorber & Everette Harp, 8 &10pm, Blues Alley, 1073 Wisconsin Ave. N.W., Washington, D.C., bluesalley.com 20 Slim Man, 8pm, Rams Head Tavern, 33 West St., Annapolis, 410-268-4545ramsheadonstage.com,Maryland,
24 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,
Jazz Funk Soul featuring Paul Jackson Jr., Jeff Lorber & Everette Harp, 8 &10pm, Blues Alley, 1073 Wisconsin Ave. N.W., Washington, D.C., bluesalley.com 19
Festival of Arts presents Concerts on the Green featuring Greg Adams & East Bay Soul, 1pm, 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, perreservedArtswith949-494-1145concerts-on-the-green/,www.foapom.com/events/California,(FreeadmissionpurchaseofFestivalofticket.Limitedseatinginsectionavailablefor$60person.)
Mindi Abair & The Boneshakers, 8pm, Madison Ribberfest BBQ & Blues, Bicentennial Park, 102 W. Vaughn Dr., Madison, www.madisonribberfest.comIndiana,
AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2022 | 25 continued on page 26
Wade Ford Concert Series featuring Eric Darius & more, 7pm, Mable House Barnes Amphitheatre, 5239 Floyd Road, Mableton, www.ericdarius.comGeorgia, Blake Aaron, 7:30pm, Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts, Studio Theatre, 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne, www.kingcenter.comFlorida,
Alexander Zonjic’s 7th Annual Shoreline Jazz Festival featuring 496 West, 1:30pm; Lindsey Webster, 3pm; Alexander Zonjic & Friends with James Lloyd, 4:45pm; Maysa, 6:30pm, Heritage Landing, 1050 7th St., Muskegon, 419-280-1073www.shorelinejazzfestival.com,Michigan, Keiko Matsui, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, www.jazzalley.com,Washington,206-441-9729
Alexander Zonjic’s 7th Annual Shoreline Jazz Festival featuring Alexander Zonjic & Friends; West Michigan Symphony with Terry Herald, arranger-conductor; Zonjic Meets Motown with Serieux: A Motown Temptations Review, 7pm, Heritage Landing, 1050 7th St., Muskegon, 419-280-1073www.shorelinejazzfestival.com,Michigan, Eric Darius, 8pm, The Tin Pan, 8982 Quioccasin Road, Richmond, www.ericdarius.comVirginia, DW3: A Tribute to the Legends of Music, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,
The Land of Enchantment Music Festival & Dance Party
DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,
27 Kim Waters, 7:30pm, The Birchmere, 3701 Mt. Vernon Ave., Alexandria, www.birchmere.com,Virginia,703-549-7500
Thornton Winery’s Champagne Concert Series featuring Gerald Albright & Adam Hawley, 7pm, Thornton Winery, 32575 Rancho California Road, Temecula, 951-699-0099www.thorntonwine.com,California, 28
3rd Annual Jazz in the Country starring Kim Scott, 1pm, Mt. Bethel Retreat Center, 17420 Mt. Bethel Lane, King George, Virginia, www.kimscottmusic.com
Festival of Arts presents Art, Jazz, Wine & Chocolate featuring Anne Walsh & Tom Zink, 5:30pm, 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, California, availableLimitedover––arepairings––foradmission.with949-494-1145events/art-jazz-wine-chocolate/,www.foapom.com/(ConcertsarefreepurchaseofFestivalofArtsWine&chocolatethoseaged21&anadditional$20.reservedseatingisforanadditional$50.)
Keiko Matsui, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, www.jazzalley.com,Washington,206-441-9729
26 Peter White & Vincent Ingala, 6:30 & 9:30pm, Rams Head Tavern, 33 West St., Annapolis, 410-268-4545www.ramsheadonstage.com,Maryland,
Keiko Matsui, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, www.jazzalley.com,Washington,206-441-9729
Alexander Zonjic’s 7th Annual Shoreline Jazz Festival featuring Organissimo, 1:30pm; Eric Darius, 3pm; Lin Rountree, 4:45pm; Najee, 6:30pm, Heritage Landing, 1050 7th St., Muskegon, 419-280-1073www.shorelinejazzfestival.com,Michigan,
Adam Hawley, 6:30pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,California, Keiko Matsui, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com,Washington, Thornton Winery’s Champagne Concert Series featuring Jesse Cook, 7pm, Thornton Winery, 32575 Rancho California Road, Temecula, 951-699-0099www.thorntonwine.com,California, 29 Music Monday featuring Eric Marienthal & special guests Chris Walker & Rebecca Jade, 6:30pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com, SEPTEMBER 1 Festival of Arts presents Art, Jazz, Wine & Chocolate featuring Scott Wilkie, 5:30pm, 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, availableLimitedover––arepairings––foradmission.purchase1145jazz-wine-chocolate/,www.foapom.com/events/art-California,949-494-(ConcertsarefreewithofFestivalofArtsWine&chocolatethoseaged21&anadditional$20.reservedseatingisforanadditional$50.)
Jazz at the Creek featuring Erin Stevenson; David P. Stevens, Lin Rountree & Reggie Codrington; Pieces of a Dream, 2pm, Market Creek Plaza Amphitheater, 310 Euclid Ave., San Diego, California, 858-650-3190jazzatthecreeksd.com, Darryl Walker featuring The Saxations, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199 4 Gulf Coast Summer Fest Jazz Edition featuring Eric Darius, Adam Hawley, Jazmin Ghent, Julian Vaughn, Kim Scott, Incognito, Phillip “Doc” Martin, gates open at 12:30pm, music starts at 1:30pm, Pensacola Community Maritime Park, 301 W. Main St., Pensacola, Florida, com,gulfcoastsummerfestjazzedition.www.850-393-3028
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26 |
SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS featuring Jeff Kashiwa & more, 4pm, Albuquerque Marriott Pyramid North, Pyramid Ballroom, 5151 San Francisco Road N.E., Albuquerque, New Mexico, www.cooljazzlive.com Kim Waters featuring Kayla Waters, 5 & 8pm, Rams Head Tavern, 33 West St., Annapolis, Maryland, 410-268-4545ramsheadonstage.com, 19th Annual Gardena Jazz Festival featuring Take 6, Marion Meadows & Alex Bugnon, Daley, Braxton Cook, Harvey Mason & The Chameleons, Fernando Pullum Community Arts Band, gates open at 9am, Rowley Memorial Park, 13220 S. Van Ness Ave., Gardena, 310-217-9537www.gardenajazzfestival.com,California, Blake Aaron, Rob Zinn & Tom Braxton, 5pm, Central Park Performing Arts Center, 105 Central Park Dr., Largo, www.brevardmusicgroup.comFlorida,
Patrick Lamb, 6pm, Humphreys Backstage Live, 2241 Shelter Island Dr., San Diego, 619-224-3577www.humphreysbackstagelive.com,California, continued from
DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com, 2 1st Annual Avery*SunshinefeaturingInternationalCincinnatiJazzFestivalNormanBrown,&AlexBugnon, doors open at 5pm, music starts at 6pm, Smale Riverfront Park, W. Mehring Way, Cincinnati, 562-424-0013http://rainbowpromotions.com,Ohio, 3 1st Annual BrianGeraldfeaturingInternationalCincinnatiJazzFestivalBrianCulbertson,Albright,MaysawithSimpson,EricRoberson & Jackiem Joyner, Damien Escobar, Keiko Matsui & Nestor Torres, doors open at noon, music starts at 1pm, Smale Riverfront Park, W. Mehring Way, Cincinnati, 562-424-0013http://rainbowpromotions.com,Ohio, Gulf Coast Summer Fest Jazz Edition featuring Boney James, Jonathan Butler, Rick Braun, Vincent Ingala, Gino Rosaria, Greg Manning, Jeanette Harris, gates open at 12:30pm, music starts at 1:30pm, Pensacola Community Maritime Park, 301 W. Main St., Pensacola, Florida, com,gulfcoastsummerfestjazzedition.www.850-393-3028
Chuck Dennis presents the 5th Annual Oxnard Jazz Festival featuring Hiroshima, Jeffrey Osborne, Blake Aaron, Jeanette Harris, Kelly’s Lot & debuting Gold Coast Horns with Jackiem Joyner, Lin Rountree, Jeff Ryan & Johnny Britt, 10am, Oxnard Beach Park, 1601 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard, www.oxnardjazzfestival.comCalifornia, Gerald Albright, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com,Washington, 11 15th Annual Dauphin County Jazz & Wine Festival featuring continued on page 28
Brian Culbertson’s Chicago Jazz Getaway featuring Eric Darius & more, 7pm, The Fairmont Chicago, Millennium Park, International Ballroom, 200 N. Columbus Dr., Chicago, www.chicagojazzgetaway.comIllinois, Chuck Dennis presents the 5th Annual Oxnard Jazz Festival featuring Delta by the Beach & Cisco Kid, 3pm, Oxnard Beach Park, 1601 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard, www.oxnardjazzfestival.comCalifornia, Erin Stevenson, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,California, Gerald Albright, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, www.jazzalley.com,Washington,206-441-9729 10 David Benoit, 6:30 & 9:30pm, Rams Head Tavern, 33 West St., Annapolis, 410-268-4545www.ramsheadonstage.com,Maryland,
AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2022 | 27 Jazz at the Creek featuring Christopher Lincoln White, Avery*Sunshine, Will Downing, 2pm, Market Creek Plaza Amphitheater, 310 Euclid Ave., San Diego, 858-650-3190www.jazzatthecreeksd.com,California, 5 Blake Aaron & Tom Browne, 8pm, City Winery, Ponce City Market, 650 North Ave. N.E., Atlanta, Georgia, citywinery.com
Blue Note Napa presents Peter White & Vincent Ingala with special guest Mindi Abair, 4 & 7:30pm, Blue Note Napa at Charles Krug Winery, 2800 Main St., St. Helena, www.mindiabair.comCalifornia, 8 Brian Culbertson’s Chicago Jazz Getaway Welcome Dinner & Jam Session featuring Eric Darius & more, 6pm, Buddy Guy’s Legends, 700 S. Wabash, Chicago, www.chicagojazzgetaway.comIllinois, DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com, Gerald Albright, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com,Washington, 9
Eric Darius & Rebecca Jade, 6:30 & 9:15pm, Bishop Arts Theatre Center, 215 S. Tyler St., Dallas, Texas, 214-948-0716bishopartstheatre.org, 15th Annual Dauphin County Jazz & Wine Festival featuring Sweet Cherie, 4:30pm; Art Sherrod Jr., 6pm; Ken Ford, 7:30pm, Fort Hunter Park, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, 717-599-5188dauphincounty.org,
Teen Town, 4:30pm; Adam Hawley, 6pm; Jackiem Joyner, Brian Simpson & Gerald Veasley, 7:30pm, Fort Hunter Park, 5300 N. Front St., Harrisburg, 717-599-5188www.dauphincounty.org,Pennsylvania,
Gerald Albright, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, www.jazzalley.com,Washington,206-441-9729
NOTE: Artists, events, venues, dates and show times are subject to change without notice. Smooth Jazz News is not responsible for any cancellations or changes or the accuracy of any concert or festival information contained in this magazine in advertisements and/or editorial, which has been provided by outside sources. Please contact each venue directly to confirm all information.
Chuck Dennis presents the 5th Annual Oxnard Jazz Festival featuring Eric Darius, The Emotions, Najee, Paula Atherton, Bunny Brunel, Ricardo Lemvo, Erin Stevenson, 10am, Oxnard Beach Park, 1601 Harbor Blvd., Oxnard, California, oxnardjazzfestival.com
Tom Braxton, 6:30pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,California,
28 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS
15 DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com, Lee Ritenour & Dave Grusin, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Lee Ritenour & Dave Grusin, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com, 22 DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com, 24 Chris Standring, 8pm, Soiled Dove Underground, 7401 E. 1st Ave., Denver, 303-830-9214www.soileddove.com,Colorado, Alexander Zonjic & Friends featuring special guest JustinLee Schultz, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,California, 25 Scottland Concerts presents Yosemite Mountain Sugar Pine Railroad featuring Peter White, 3pm, Lewis Creek Amphitheater, 56001 Hwy. 41, Fish Camp, California, YosemiteJazzTrain.com City of Irondale 135th Anniversary Music Festival featuring Kim Scott, Beacon Park, 5309 Beacon Dr., Irondale, irondalecommunityfoundation.comAlabama, Sway Collective Tribute to Frank Sinatra & Friends featuring DamonReel, 6:30pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,California, Rhythm on the Vine Jazz Concert Series featuring Steve Oliver & Michael Lington, 7pm, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, 34843 Rancho California Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com, 16 Jeff Kashiwa, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Parker Jazz Club, 117 W. 4th St., Suite 107B, Austin, www.parkerjazzclub.comTexas, Jackiem Joyner, 8pm, Soiled Dove Underground, 7401 E. 1st Ave., Denver, www.soileddove.comColorado, Lee Ritenour & Dave Grusin, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com, 17 Jeff Kashiwa, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Parker Jazz Club, 117 W. 4th St., Suite 107B, Austin, www.parkerjazzclub.comTexas, Will Donato, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, spaghettini.com, 562-596-2199 Lee Ritenour & Dave Grusin, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com, Thornton Winery’s Champagne Concert Series featuring Jeffrey Osborne, 7pm, Thornton Winery, 32575 Rancho California Road, Temecula, 951-699-0099www.thorntonwine.com,California, 18 An Evening with Brian Culbertson featuring Marcus Anderson & Marqueal Jordan, 7:30pm, Maryland Hall, 801 Chase St., Annapolis, 410-263-5544www.ramsheadonstage.com,Maryland, Eric Darius, 1pm, The Factory, 17105 N. Outer 40 Road, Chesterfield, www.ericdarius.comMissouri, continued from page 27 Road, Temecula, 844-841-1406www.southcoastwinery.com,California, 26 Music Monday featuring Eric Marienthal & special guest David Benoit, 6:30pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,California, 29 DW3, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,
Rhythm on the Vine Jazz Concert Series featuring Michael Paulo, Blake Aaron & Tateng Katindig, 7pm, South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, 34843 Rancho California Road, Temecula, 844-841-1406www.southcoastwinery.com,California, 14 Jeff Kashiwa, 7 & 9pm, All Access Recording, 3700 Ulmerton Road, Suite 205, Clearwater, jeffkashiwa.com,Florida,727-685-2362
David Sanborn Jazz Quartet, 7:30 & 9:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com,
David Sanborn Jazz Quartet, 7:30pm, Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley, 2033 6th Ave., Seattle, Washington, 206-441-9729www.jazzalley.com, 30 DW3: A Tribute to the Legends of Music, 7pm, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, California, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,
SEPT. 11 Spaghettini’s Legendary Champagne Brunch with performance by DW3, 11am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,California,
AUGUST-SEPTEMBER
Spaghettini’s Legendary Champagne Brunch with performance by DW3, 11am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,California,
Spaghettini’s Legendary Champagne Brunch with performance by DW3, 11am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,California,
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Jazz BruNches
SEPT. 18
NOTE: Spaghettini’s Sunday Brunch performances in the lounge have sold out through Aug. 21. As of press time, lounge seating was still available for the brunch dates and shows in this calendar (but is subject to sell out). 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.
SEPT. 25 Spaghettini’s Legendary Champagne Brunch with performance by DW3, 11am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,California,
AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2022 | 29
AUG. 28 Spaghettini’s Legendary Champagne Brunch with performance by DW3, 11am, Spaghettini Fine Dining & Entertainment, 3005 Old Ranch Pkwy., Seal Beach, 562-596-2199www.spaghettini.com,California,
SEPT. 4 Mood Setters Productions presents Sunday Jazz Brunch featuring Paul Jackson Jr., brunch starts at 1pm, concert starts at 2pm, Renaissance Los Angeles Airport Hotel, 9620 Airport Blvd., Los Angeles, www.pauljacksonjr.comCalifornia,
Libra Sept. 23 - Oct. 22
2022 • 192 pages • $26
BOOK REVIEW
On last note, Jones stresses living an honorable life. “You must have humility with your creativity, and be gracious with your successes.
“12 Notes: On Life and Creativity” by Quincy Jones and The Weeknd Harry N. Abrams
Jones says he divided his book into 12 chapters because, “I’m always fascinated to hear the different outcomes that we as musicians can create with only 12 notes; in the same way, I want to break down my principles, my approach to life and my philosophies, in 12 chapters or notes.”
Everything in this business, and life, revolves around relationships—the people you meet, and most important, how you treat them.”
Important things have been concerning to you lately. This would be a good time to meet with someone who has had similar experiences. Listening to others share their coping methods can help you develop your own plans. Pay attention.
Pisces Feb. 19 - March 20
Gemini May 21 - June 21 Do not get upset, but the assistance you thought was coming your way is not happening! Do not feel too anxious since you will be on your own with an important project. Just take a big breath and proceed forward. You can do it!
You have worked hard to get healthy. It would be great if your loved ones would also become healthier. Watch how you encourage them because sometimes folks do not respond the same. Take your time, and do not push too hard.
Virgo Aug. 23 - Sept. 22 It is time to get a little tough with your peers. This is not something you are generally comfortable with at all. Do not feel guilty about speaking up, but don’t take it too far. There is no point in letting things get hostile.
Jones was also an early supporter of hip-hop and rap and co-established Vibe magazine, which was like the Rolling Stone of R&B and hip-hop.
In one of the notes, he advises, “Always be prepared for a great opportunity. There will be plenty of moments in which the work you do goes unnoticed but hear me when I say that someone is always watching.” He shares how he worked one time with Frank Sinatra while in Europe with his band. And years later, Sinatra called again, and they ended up working together and being friends for more than 40 years. In fact, Sinatra was the first person to give him the nickname “Q.” Another note is “Go to Know” in which Jones highly recommends travel and meeting people from other cultures. He has been lucky to travel all over the world, but smaller trips can be beneficial.
You have quite a few chores awaiting. It is time to listen and appreciate the advice of someone who wants to help. There is no point in getting your back up with resentment. This person only wants to help, and you need it!
30 | SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS
AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2022
Capricorn Dec. 22 - Jan. 19
You have a full schedule as usual and an extremely busy life. Try not to forget about friends and acquaintances who might just need a little dose of you. Make sure you grab a little time to work on your relationships.
You have been thinking about making some changes at home lately. So many things are just not working for you, and it is time to face that. A serious discussion needs to take place. Make sure you remain calm and loving.
Canadian superstar Abel “The Weeknd” Tesfaye proudly wrote the foreword for this encouraging collection of musings regarding the creativeThoughprocess.Jones relates many incidents from his personal history, it is not an autobiography. Jones has already written one, “Q: The Autobiography of Quincy Jones.” Jones explains, “After I quit drinking alcohol in 2015, all my memories came flooding back, and they brought new perspectives with them that I’ve now been able to distill into crucial pieces of advice that I want to share with anyone looking to break the walls that often withholdBecausecreativity.”Jones’mother suffered from severe dementia, he and his brother were reared by their father. He writes, “Growing up in an environment that stripped me of all ability to control my circumstances, creativity became the only way in which I could gain even an ounce of stability.”
You have made a big step toward becoming healthier, making it possible to get out and about more easily. You were born to experience the most out of life, and you have been chomping at the bit. Time to get out among them, kiddo! Sagittarius Nov. 22 - Dec. 21
Taurus April 20 - May 20 It is hard to deal with criticism, and lately you have been feeling the sting. Try to think about where the comments come from. Anyone with more experience or knowledge certainly has the right to comment. Just make sure your reactions are appropriate.
Aquarius Jan. 20 - Feb. 18
CASHMIRA’SSTARGUIDE
Procrastination could be your middle name. Have you ever truly completed a project? Do not kid yourself; you know you need some assistance from others. Be sure that you are thoughtful with your thanks when required.
You have been thinking of planning a trip, but you think you can’t afford it. Take another look; you have been good at saving lately. And if this trip includes some cultural value, you just might be able to swing it.
Aries March 21 - April 19
Try to control your responses when in conflict with people at home. There is no point in blaming others every time there is an issue. Think seriously about how to communicate better so that your home can be a more peaceful place.
Multi-talented, 28-time Grammy award winner Quincy Jones provides us with his thoughts on creativity. “My hope is that as you continue to read this book, you’ll be encouraged to create. Whether you create from a position of pain or jubilation, we need you, your gifts, and your talents.”
Reviewed by Darcy Peters
His association with Michael Jackson on the albums Off the Wall, Thriller and Bad is the stuff of legend, of course. He admired Jackson’s commitment to his work and his impeccable preparation.
In the “Sharpen your Left Brain” note, he describes classes he attended for an understanding of music theory specifically for film scoring, which was so different from jazz. “I want to challenge you to delve deeper into learning the science behind your craft because I guarantee it will change the ways you create.”
Scorpio Oct. 23 - Nov. 21
Cancer June 22 - July 22
Leo July 23 - Aug. 22
AUGUST | SEPTEMBER 2022 | 31 GET HOMEONLINEDELIVERY! at www.smoothjazznews.com CALL 858-541-1919 to charge by phone MAIL the form on this page Receive seven issues annuallyfor$25* I want Smooth Jazz News delivered to my mailbox (seven issues)Yes! 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 *Price effective through September 30, 2022 Th M A ho e and at ea plan yourd eam ja zde t nat o s A N N U A L F E S T I V A L A N D C R U S E G U I D E
