The world lost one of its most valued treasures in music icon Michael Joseph Jackson. Jackson died Thursday, June 25, 2009 in Los Angeles, California at age 50. Paramedics and emergency personnel were unable to resuscitate the music legend who went into cardiac arrest at his Holmby Hills mansion. The King of Pop was rushed to Ronald Reagan-UCLA Medical Center hospital where doctors tried to revive him to no avail. He was pronounced dead at 2:26 p.m. pacific time.
Thousands of fans lined the streets around UCLA in shock and sadness. They flocked to his Neverland Ranch in Santa Ynez and visited his childhood home in Gary, Indiana. Mourners, friends and family members looked on in shock and disbelief as his body was flown to the Los Angeles County Medical Examiner’s office via helicopter from the UCLA Medical Center. Vigils held around the world showed his fans in an array of emotional states - from stunned disbelief and tearful to dancing and festive - celebrating his life and musical legacy.
Jackson was in Los Angeles to rehearse for his “This Is It” concert series. 50 concert events were in the planning stages and were set to kick off in July 2009 in London where 750,000 tickets had been pre-sold and ticket sales had raked in nearly $85 million dollars for the events’ promoters.
Michael Jackson was loved by millions of people around the world for his kindness and ability to bring people together for great causes. He employed thousands of people and during the 80s, his music brought the music industry back to its feet with a sorely needed infusion of originality and groundbreaking dance moves that remains the blueprint for many successful artists around the world today. Such events as We Are The World, Heal The World and many others raised millions of dollars for the destitute, downtrodden and less fortunate peoples of the world. His musical legacy features the all time best selling THRILLER, which sold in excess of 100 million units. OFF THE WALL, BAD, DANGEROUS, INVINCIBLE and HIStory were also among the best sellers of his career which spanned over 40 years.
Jackson began his career at the age of 5 with his brothers in Gary, Indiana as a member and lead singer of The Jackson 5. After signing with Motown Records, the group went on to become the original boy band and sold two million units with the release of “I Want You Back.” “ABC,” “The Love You Save,” and “I’ll Be There,” followed and the boys became a household name with their television series, coloring books, television specials and more tween and teen idolatry than any other boy band of their generation.
Motown began grooming Michael for a solo career in 1971. “Got To Be There,” “Rockin’ Robin” "Never Can Say Goodbye," and “Ben” were hits but Motown failed to keep Michael under contract. The group (with the exception of Jermaine) moved to Epic Records in 1975 and became The Jacksons. Michael recorded his first solo album there as an adult and released his stunning debut OFF THE WALL to worldwide critical and commercial success. Produced by Quincy Jones, the album spawned four number one hits including “Rock With You” and “Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough.” However it was THRILLER, also produced by Quincy Jones, that earned Jackson the nickname “The King of Pop.” Subsequent releases, BAD, DANGEROUS, HIStory, and INVINCIBLE in 2001 sealed his legacy as one of the best selling artists of all time.
Michael’s body of work is immense and will always serve as a major and vital contribution to musical history and education. His short films and videos are masterpieces that tell interesting stories in conjunction with his great dancing and singing. All of these videos and short films were awesome but I have the fondest memories for: “Thriller,” “Bad,” “The Way You Make Me Feel,”“Smooth Criminal,” “Beat It,” “Billie Jean,”“We Are The World,”“Remember The Time” with Eddie Murphy & Iman; “In The Closet” with Naomi Campbell; “Jam” with Michael Jordan; "Man In the Mirror," “Leave Me Alone,”“Scream” with Janet Jackson; "Earth Song" and his short films “Captain EO” the Disney film shown at Disneyland theme parks; and “You Rock My World” with Marlon Brando, Chris Tucker & Michael Madsen. I will always keep a place in my heart for his original appearance on Dick Clark’s American Bandstand that shot him to stardom as a member of the Jackson 5 when he sang “I Want You Back” and “ABC” with his brothers.
Not much is written about Michael Jackson's major humanitarian concerns and his dedication to many causes. His donations to charity are documented in the Guinness Book of Records as being the most by any celebrity. Michael also received an Honorary Doctorate degree from Fisk University among thousands of other accolades, awards, commendations and global fame.
"Like the world, last week I was devastated by the news that Michael Jackson had suddenly left the room. This blessed artist commanded the stage with the grace of an antelope, shattered recording industry records and broke down cultural boundaries around the world, yet remained the gentlest of souls" stated Quincy Jones in his appreciation article written for the Los Angeles Times on Tuesday, June 30, 2009.
In a statement released by her publicist, Siedah Garrett who wrote Jackson's major hit, "Man In The Mirror," states, "Michael Jackson was a trailblazer. He blazed a path so new for so many decades that his artistic influence is heavily documented via nearly every music video on MTV and tens of hundreds of other music video and media outlets."
Patti Austin remembers Michael Jackson with loving memories. In a statement released by her publicist she wrote," I loved Michael as a dear friend and was fortunate to be around in his "Golden Years." I just did an interview for CNN about Michael from an airport and in the moment I realized once again what an impact he had. But also, he did everything to the max as many genius types do. In a sad but realistic way, it's understandable that his light would go out in what we might see as premature."
The multiple award winning drummer Ndugu Chancler who plays his heart out on "Beat It," one of many of the hits from Michael Jackson's history making hit THRILLER, told SOTJ, "Michael was a genius and geniuses don't live long. Many of them leave before they reach their peak, I don't know why, but it happens. I am saddened by his loss and my heart goes out to his family and children."
In a statement released through his publicist, the multiple award-winning guitarist, Paul Jackson, Jr., stated, "I played guitar on many songs for Michael over the years, not the least of which were "Beat It," "Pretty Young Thing," "Lady In My Life" and "Dirty Diana." In the studio, Michael was the consummate professional. He always knew what he wanted to hear and stayed focused until he got it. One time Michael called me into a Hollywood studio to play a solo on a song that turned out to be "Heartbreak Hotel." I asked him what kind of solo he wanted. He put a cassette in a tape player, said "This is what I want," and proceeded to play the tape. The solo I played on the record is what he sang to me note for note. That's the Michael I will remember."
This writer met Michael Jackson in 1979 during the making of OFF THE WALL and subsequently became one of his most ardent fans. Subsequent meetings during the making of THRILLER, “We Are The World,” and “Remember The Time,” videoes,during the 26th Annual Grammy Awards celebrations, and during his 1985 filming of CAPTAIN EO at Disney, were all the more memorable because of the opportunity to share in his gentle aura.
I will never forget the kindness Michael Jackson showed me and will miss him dearly. It is truly a sad day for me and for the people who truly loved him. My heartfelt condolences are extended to his family and children. Rest in peace dear, dear, Michael.
Gifts outside of the Jackson Family compound in Encino, CA - courtesy of J. Widran
Fans leave condolences outside of the Jackson Family compound in Encino, CA - Courtesy of J. Widran
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KENNY G
As one of the most popular musicians in the world today, Kenny G has become the biggest selling instrumental musician with global sales exceeding more than 75 million albums. Over the past decades he has been a fixture in arenas, amphitheaters, and concert halls performing for millions of fans.
Kenny G first gained notoriety after years of playing with Barry White’s Love Unlimited Orchestra and Jeff Lorber’s Fusion. He signed with Arista Records in 1982 and released KENNY G., G-FORCE, and GRAVITY to widespread critical acclaim and commercial success. However, his breakthrough moment came with an appearance on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson in 1988. He performed “Songbird” from his mega-hit DUOTONES and the next day he was a household name.
Fortune smiled on Kenny G several more times with his subsequent studio albums SILHOUETTE and BREATHLESS, both huge hits with the latter featuring the Grammy Award winning single “Forever In Love.” It sold over 12 million copies, making it the biggest selling instrumental record in United States history!
Kenny G has since performed with hundreds of musicians whose work spans the entire musical spectrum. Be it soul searching with Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston and Natalie Cole or dueting in an Italian countryside with opera star Andrea Bocelli, Kenny G has made a great mark on music forever. His latest recording RHYTHM AND ROMANCE features a tapestry of samba and salsa, ballads and bossa nova accompanied by some of the biggest names in contemporary Latin jazz.
Vanessa Williams’ musical career has been and continues to be a winning combination of great collaborations and chart-topping hits. With Sixteen Grammy Award nominations, millions of records sold, and hundreds of valuable entertainment industry awards, Williams’ trophy room surely commands its own corner office. Her latest endeavor, THE REAL THING, holds the top spot on Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz Chart and features great songs produced by some of the top names on the music scene today including Kenny “Babyface” Edmonds, Keith Thomas, Rex Rideout and Rob Mathes. The recording is a "a potpourri of breezy Latin rhythms, sultry jazz standards and dreamy pop sketches," and delves into the sophisticated contemporary jazz, pop and R&B that have been the hallmark of her dynamic musical career. One of the coolest things about Vanessa Williams’ latest release is the fact that she sings songs that mean something to her and doesn’t waste a minute conveying the emotions inherent in the songs. These songs show who she is…a consummate professional with the ability to tell her audiences a great story. “Breathless” a gorgeous ballad, opens the recording and Williams’ take will leave you so captivated that you can’t help but keep listening. The next track, “Hello Like Before” Williams’ gift for heartfelt poignancy takes center stage again. She immediately resonates with audiences again on “I Fell In.” This song is absolutely beautiful. Vanessa Williams reaches deep into the idea of love at first sight and chooses just the right nuances, harmony and rhythmic pacing to involve her listeners in this romantic tale. Overall, this is one of Vanessa Williams’ best. Five stars. Buy THE REAL THING now. Simply click on the CD cover.
Jimmy Cobb
Kind of Blue Jimmy Cobb's So What Band
As the widely acclaimed drummer on many of Miles Davis’ most incredible recordings and the anchor of many of his ensembles, Jimmy Cobb is truly a living legend. Cobb worked in what is considered as Davis’ first great quintet that featured John Coltrane, Bill Evans, and Cannonball Adderley and which spawned the masterpiece Kind of Blue, the most popular jazz recording in history. Cobb also played on Sketches of Spain, Someday My Prince Will Come, Live at Carnegie Hall, Liveat the Blackhawk, Porgy and Bess, and on many other seminal Miles Davis recordings. 2009 marks the 50th anniversary of Kind of Blue. As the only surviving member of the great Miles Davis ensemble that recorded this seminal jazz recording, Jimmy Cobb is receiving the just and widely deserved praise for his participation. Cobb is a distinctive member of many tribute bands this year and can be seen and heard in concert and at many festivals including appearances at the Playboy Jazz Festival at the Hollywood Bowl with Wallace Roney, Javon Jackson, Larry Willis, Buster Williams and Vincent Herring.
Cobb will also appear at the LAPhil 2009 Jazz at the Bowl series at the Hollywood Bowl on August 5th. “Miles Davis/Gil Evans: Still Ahead" will feature Jimmy Cobb with such notable soloists as Terence Blanchard, Nicholas Payton, Christian McBride, Peter Erskine and Howard Johnson. Vince Mendoza is conducting and Miles Evans is the Artistic Director. For more information on his touring schedule, log on to www.jimmycobb.net . Buy the 50th Anniversary Collector’s Edition of Kind of Blue today.
QUARTET LIVE! Gary Burton, Steve Swallow, Pat Metheny, Antonio Sanchez
Gary Burton, Steve Swallow, Pat Metheny and Antonio Sanchez are the great musicians behind QUARTET LIVE! Recorded “live” at Yoshi’s in Oakland, California in June 2007, the collective revisits songs played by the Gary Burton Quartets which had its origin in the late Sixties. They perform a passionate set of songs composed by Chick Corea, Carla Bley, Steve Swallow, Keith Jarrett, Gary Burton and Pat Metheny; all musicians who composed for several incarnations of Burton’s quartets. These songs are as beautiful as they are enduring especially “Sea Journey” and “Olhos de Gato” written by Corea and Bley respectively. Burton’s “Walter L” is included here as a tribute to Hank Garland who gave Burton his start. Pat Metheny’s most recognized songs “Missouri Uncompromised” and “Question and Answer” are also included on this exceptional recording. Swallow’s “Hullo Bolinas, a jazz waltz and his first composition for Burton “Falling Grace” make this one a real keeper. QUARTET LIVE! Is definitely a must have for any Gary Burton fan and provides a great way to tune in three more very talented and exceptional musicians who contributed to the making of the recording. Check it out now!
TIDE Luciana Souza
On TIDE, Brazilian vocalist Luciana Souza delivers a superb set of seven original songs on which she collaborates with such musical luminaries as guitarists Romero Lubambo, Larry Koonse, husband, bassist and producer Larry Klein, Cyro Baptista on percussion, Vinnie Colaiuta on drums and Larry Goldings on keyboards.Rebecca Pidgeon provides background vocals to this multi-faceted treasure of wonderful music that also features songs by Paul Simon, and Brazilian folklorists.However, the real treasures are mined in “Love Poem 65” andthe title track both of which are based upon e.e. cummings’ poems. Both showcase the composing skills of the husband/wife duo. Both songs are romantic ballads, subtle, and subdued by Souza’s beautiful vocals and the intimacy of the lyrical guitar voicings. The Brazilian experience continues with Souza singing several songs in Portugese including “Adeus America & Eu Quero Um Samba,” “Sorriu Para Mim” “Chuva” and “Amulet.” Overall, TIDE is a versatile statement of Luciana Souza’s growth as a singer of original English language compositions and a proven master of true Brazilian bossa nova and samba standards.
HE AND SHE Wynton Marsalis
Wynton Marsalis’ fifth Blue Note release indicates HE AND SHE is about that eternally compelling and most elemental of subjects, the relationship between a man and a woman. However, in the words of Marsalis, it’s about three things: a man, a woman and the relationship they create together (“1+1=3/You, me, and you and me.” This brilliant recording is sequenced as a combination of spoken poems that introduce original jazz waltzes that sway with the same elegance and ease as the metaphors Marsalis uses. Joined by Walter Blanding on tenor and soprano saxophones, Dan Nimmer on piano, Carlos Henriquez on bass and Ali Jackson on drums, this 22 track marvel is surely one for the ages. The entire CD is an amazing study of genres, tempos, textures, rhythms and grooves that will have you jazzed to your heart’s delight. “The Razor Rim” (a complex song that describes the complexity of a woman) provides you, dear listeners, with deep listening opps on which you hear Marsalis and company play their hearts out in a collection of tempos defined as Swinging ¾; Elvin Jones 5/4; Refined burn out 4/4; Swing Modern 4/4 Swing. How heavy is that? Man! “School Boy” a Ragtime Two, New Orleans Two Groove with Modern Swing is pure Marsalis. These compositions are deep ruminations that we can all relate to: check out Poem on track 11 that leads to “Zero.”Marsalis’ trumpet weeps, is sorrowful and mourning for a lost love. He uses rubato, color and textures on this ballad played in ¾ timing to describe his emotions and to convey the story behind the song. The blues, the sophistication of a jazz waltz, deep pensive thoughts, fun, romance and harmonic relationship are all here and beautifully extend themselves on HE AND SHE. Buy HE AND SHE today. Simply click on the CD cover.
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Chick Corea & John McLaughlin Five Peace Band
This live two-CD set is a must have for any Chick Corea or John McLaughlin fan. The two have reunited and this time they've invited such great musicians as Christian McBride on bass, Kenny Garrett on saxophone and Vinnie Colaita (or Brian Blade) on drums to give their fans - veteran and new - a solid set of songs which spotlight their individual and collective talents. The discs offer beautiful solutions for fusion fans who have been yearning for the creative possibilities that this band offers. Corea's unparalled quality and genius on piano is definitely something to behold, while McLaughlin's dare to be different chops are as exciting as ever. Disc One opens with "Raju" an amazing song that sets your ears on fire from the opening note to the final chord. Tenor sax titan Kenny Garrett tears it up on "Hymn To Andromeda" a true burner with every band member "wide open" and filled with surprises. Christian McBride's youthful rhythms brings this next great phase of Chick and John to his generation with interesting bass logic that incorporates blues, soul, funk and fusion. On Disc Two, you get a real taste of the vintage jazz and blues that Chick keeps in his songbooks and pulls out at just the right time during this set. The 22 minute "Dr. Jackle" is followed by an extended 20 minute version of "Senor C.S." the spellbinding tribute to Carlos Santana. Memories abound on "In A Silent Way," the 1969 landmark piece Chick and John performed with Wayne Shorter, Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Dave Holland and Tony Williams that set their lives along amazing musical journeys that the world will never forget. The wonders of Chick Corea and John McLaughlin cannot be overemphasized. Their latest installment is a premier listening experience that has Chick's best status symbols - his electric and acoustic pianos - having the last word on "Someday My Prince Will Come." This recording is a truly 'handcrafted' prize that you'll have to have in your collection. Turn it up! Available now on itunes.com and at www.chickcorea.com CLICK ON CD COVER to buy FIVE PEACE BAND.
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DEDICATED TO YOU: KURT ELLING SINGS THE MUSIC OF COLTRANE and HARTMAN
Kurt Elling
Recorded LIVE in Manhattan as part of Lincoln Center’s American Songbook series, Grammy Award nominee and critically acclaimed vocalist Kurt Elling offers his fans a stunning interpretation of the music of John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman. DEDICATED TO YOU: KURT ELLING SINGS THE MUSIC OFCOLTRANE AND HARTMAN is an awesome re-birth of the 1963 album titled John Coltrane and JohnnyHartman. Elling is accompanied by saxophonist Ernie Watts, the Laurence Hobgood Trio and the genre-bending Ethel Sting Quartet. Avid fans and a new generation of listeners will hear 12-great tracks featuring Elling’s amazing vocals intertwining with newly arranged works brilliantly interpreted by his collaborators. As a balladeer, Elling is highly acclaimed for his special way with lyrics, phrasings and ability to remain true to the essence of past interpretations. He doesn’t disappoint here and delivers one of today’s most important jazz works. Just one listen to his renditions of “All or Nothing At All” and “Say It (Over and Over Again)” defies any identity politics and wipes the slate clean of any note-for-note comparisons to the original Coltrane/Hartman project. But merely hearing this CD isn’t enough to grasp the complex beauty and romantic nature of this recording. The genius of Elling and his collaborators will make you FEEL IT. Ernie Watts’ solo on the opener is but one indication of what you, dear listener, are in for. “What’s New,” “My One and Only Love,” are so compelling and poetic that they leave you completely transformed in the way you listen to these great songs. Throughout the entire CD, Elling captivates and holds you spellbound with his stunning delivery and emphasis on quality. These sounds of timeless jazz are definitely something you’re unlikely to hear anywhere else in this. It’s altogether sensitive, sympathetic and symbiotic. Highly recommended and a MUST HAVE. Buy it today. Click on the CD cover to purchase.
MORE TO SAY... (REAL LIFE STORY: NEXT GEN)
Teri Lyne Carrington
Grammy nominee Terri Lyne Carrington has more to say and she says it well on her follow up to Real Life Story. On MORE TO SAY...(REAL LIFE STORY: NEXTGEN), Carrington employs an all-star roster of contemporary jazz musicians including George Duke, Kirk Whalum, Everette Harp, Patrice Rushen, Jimmy Haslip, Gregoire Maret, Christian McBride, Danilo Perez, Dwight Sills, Chuck Loeb, Walter Beasley, Anthony Wilson and Robert Irving III to help her do what she does best. Need we say more? Check out this exceptional R&B infused, jazz influenced CD that also features jazz greats Nancy Wilson and Les McCann on "Dream Come True," and "Hold Me Again, respectively. Buy MORE TO SAY now. Just click on the CD cover.
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PRETTY WORLD Anne Walsh
Anne Walsh sings a lovely set of jazz standards, Brazilian jazz, and original songs on her latest release titled PRETTY WORLD. Produced by her husband, Thomas Zink, the dynamic song stylist gives these tracks her best shot and wows listeners with versatile phrasing, poignant interpretive skills and multi-octave vocal prowess. Walsh is accompanied by some of the best musicians on the jazz scene today including Brian Bromberg on bass, Gary Meek on saxophone and flute, Oscar Castro-Neves on guitars,Thomas Zink on piano and Rhodes, as well as many other great musicians. The recording opens with the title track. Here Walsh is subtle and pretty reining in Brazilian jazz enthusiasts who will love her versions of “Waters of March” and “Chove Chuva.” She captures the stories behind these songs with amazing insight and sincerity.“In The Still of the Night” is serene and intimate. Walsh’s soprano voice unites the melody and harmony of this great song with exquisite beauty.By contrast, her subtle rendition of “Pools” is easy and breezy. “Night and Day” is given a great Latin-esque update with Walsh capturing the emotions inherent in Cole Porter’s everlasting standard.The Portuguese version of “My Favorite Things” is one of the best songs on this recording. Walsh sings with ease and emotion over beautiful orchestration and accomplished saxophone accompaniment by the great Gary Meek and brilliant bass work by Brian Bromberg. Overall, PRETTY WORLD surpasses the standards Walsh set for herself on her previous recording and should delight her new and existing fans. Buy it today. Click on the CD cover to purchase.
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NEW MORNING: THE PARIS CONCERT Mike Stern
Guitarist Mike Stern, a five-time GRAMMY nominee and a pivotal figure in the later years of the Miles Davis projects, is regarded as one of the most innovative jazz musicians on any continent in the past three decades. His latest effort, an electrifying show in front of a capactiy-plus crowd in May 2008 was captured on film for posterity, and is presented in NEW MORNING: THE PARIS CONCERT. This DVD, captures nearly two hours of the fabulous concert at the celebrated club in Paris, France. Backing Stern is saxophonist Bob Franceschini, bassist Tom Kennedy and the incredible world-renowned drummer Dave Weckl. Check it out. To buy the DVD, please click on the DVD cover.
DREAM FOR ONE BRIGHT WORLD Cynthia Scott
Sweet, soulful, sassy and soothing are but a few ways to describe Cynthia Scott’s latest release titled DREAM FOR ONE BRIGHT WORLD. The celebrated vocalist whose vocal artistry encompasses “the swing of jazz, the soul of R&B, and the sacred stirrings of gospel music” has been hailed for her myriad of influences which are clearly noticeable on her fifth release as a leader. The 10-track set also reveals Ms. Scott’s amazing skills as a composer of captivating musical stories that take listeners to the heart and soul of the matter – be it a love relationship, the way of the world, or a human condition such as homelessness and disease. Although Cynthia Scott’s contralto voice and versatile range are at the forefront of these great compositions, listeners are sure to tune in to these heartfelt stories behind the songs. On “The Man In The Street” Ms. Scott relays the reality of homelessness in a spoken word gem that you’ll not forget anytime soon. “Did I Know You” describes the heartbreaking medical condition Ms. Scott’s mother experienced before her death. Ms. Scott taps into her soul and conveys those exclusive emotions with reverence and respect. She doesn’t forget the man who discovered her and sings a wonderful tribute to him on “Shades of Ray.” The amazing Cynthia Scott is definitely open to inspiration and she makes her music joyful, sorrowful, romantic and fun. Highly recommended.To buy DREAM FOR ONE BRIGHT WORLD. Click on the CD cover to purchase
SECRETS Marion Meadows
Marion Meadows’ fans will be ultra-delighted with his latest release for Heads Up International, titled SECRETS. The sexy multi-instrumentalist/composer/producer teams up with songwriter Michael Broening to deliver several great hits including the radio hit “Let The Top Down.” Every great song has a “secret” deep within that the composer intends to convey to its listeners. Some say this is the backbone of every great lyric, harmony, melody or rhythm, that thing that latches on to a listener and won’t let go; that thing that keeps you humming long after the song is over. This adage is true for the title track, a mid-tempo gem that speaks to you just under the surface. Meadows’ soprano sax is in a mellow tone and filled with mysterious lingering sounds that stir the soul. “Let The Top Down” is another great song. Here Jesse McGuire provides a layer of counterpoint to Meadows’ saxophone and makes this one a real keeper as evidenced by the radio success it currently is experiencing. “Friends,” by Bobby McFerrin and “Here To Stay” by Pat Metheny both feature Brian Chartrand’s lead vocals which add a special dynamic to the recording. Overall, this is a soulful CD and one that meets the previous standards set by Marion Meadows’ chart-toppers DRESSED TO CHILL and PLAYER’S CLUB.
JACQUES LOUSSIER PLAYS BACH: THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY RECORDING
Jacques Loussier
This is music you should hear! With each release in Jacques Loussier’s Plays Bach Trio series, his fans have found that each recording is more astounding than its predecessor. On JACQUES LOUSSIER PLAYS BACH: THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY RECORDING, the award- winning pianist has invited bassist Vincent Charbonnier and drummer Andre Arpino to capture the innovative fusion of J.S. Bach compositions with jazz elements on such great compositions as “Invention For Two Voices No. 8,”“Siciliana In G Minor” “Vivace From Concerto In C Minor,” among others. With three of the 11 tracks recorded live – “Toccata and Fugue in C Major” and “Prelude No. 2 in C Minor” recorded in France; and “Chorale No. 1 “Sleepers Awake” recorded in Japan; listeners are able to re-live the wonderful experience of being present for these exceptional concerts. There are many great highlights on this recording but Charbonnier’s amazing bass solo followed by the dramatic conclusion on “Prelude No. 2 in C Minor,” is definitely worth a repeated listen. One can only imagine the thunderous ovation that concluded this song.“Chromatic Fantasy” reveals more jazz elements than other tracks on this recording and should delight those who are more receptive to these aural communications. Although all of the other titles were recorded in Advision Studio in London, the excitement inherent in a “live” concert is present due to the agility of 75- year old Loussier. He is absolutely stunning and presents a major challenge for any newcomer to aspire to. Lighthearted, pensive, dramatic and rhythmically consistent, this entire recording presents Loussier at his best when accompanied by the dramatic stylistic range of his new trio. This recording is brilliant and is absolutely flawless. Buy it now.
DOWN THE WIRE Spyro Gyra
For more than 30 years, Spyro Gyra has maintained their position at the forefront of contemporary jazz and with DOWN THE WIRE they prove once again that their spontaneity and creative dexterity are the things that have made them legends in their own time. Eleven new tracks makes this recording worth having in your jazz collection. Daring improvisations by saxophonist Jay Beckenstein, keyboardist Tom Schuman and great rhythmic logic from Scott Ambush on bass, Julio Fernandez on guitar and Bonny B on percussion, drums and vocals are both artful and well conceived. On “Unspoken” the entire group is joined by original SG member Gerardo Velez who makes another appearance on “A Flower For Annie Jeanette.” The recording offers an array of jazz styles including straight ahead,swing and Latin enveloped insmooth contemporary layers of great sounds. Check this CD out today.
THE SEARCH WITHIN
Sean Jones
THE POWER WITHIN, Sean Jones’ fifth recording for Mack Avenue Records, is a superb example of the young trumpeter’s growth and musical personality. The 12 songs which capture the essence of what he terms as “reflections of his life” are inspired by thoughts and desires that have brought him to his current destination on the jazz music scene. The program opens with “The Search Within,” as a pensive prelude that sets the tone for the entire recording. It is as beautiful as it is mysterious, setting the stage for the unknown journey we as listeners are about to embark on within Sean’s soul. “Transitions” is an up-tempo swinger with Jones’ out front trading places with alto saxophonist Brian Hogans that suggests the various changes one experiences in transitions. His exhilarating trumpet blasts are answered by drummer Obed Calvaire before Hogans brings the tempo to an easy pace that allows the members to reach another destination. Two songs inspired by the poet/philosopher Kalil Gibran - “The Ambitious Violet” and “The Storm” - show the versatility of Jones as a composer. The first being a quiet ballad and the latter being a tumultuous display of technical agility in all registers. “The Search Within” reappears as an interlude before we hear “Summer’s Spring” on which Jones plays the flugelhorn with a groove line that definitely pops. “Sunday Reflections” gives the listener those same happy feelings that you have when you’re out in nature and among people that feel good too. “Love’s Lullaby” is another beauty that seems to call your lover’s name and is filled with passion and emotion that compels you to keep listening. “The Search Within” postlude ends the set with a feeling of completeness and gratitude. Overall, Sean Jones and company have delivered a wonderful recording filled with great improvisations, soloing and technical agility. Jones truly deserves a place among the great trumpeters of his generation.
FUNKED UP! Candy Dulfer
Candy Dulfer’s latest offering is all FUNKED UP! The sexy saxophonist gives it all she’s got complete with quotes from Prince’s funky grooves thanks to his former bassist Chance Howard, sass from Dutch rapper Pete Philly and of course the funkiest overtones ripped straight from mentor Maceo Parker by a three piece horn section that includes trumpeter Jan van Duikeren, tenor saxophonist Guido Nijs and trombonist Louk Boudesteijn. All of the songs are danceable especially “First In Line,” “Finger Poppin” and “Be Cool.” This set is definitely a party thing that should give Dulfer a top spot on the charts around the world simply because when people feel as good as she makes them feel with these awesome grooves, they’ll want to dance! FUNKED UP is all you need to keep your summer swinging so put on your dancing shoes, get out of the house and have some fun! Buy FUNKED UP today. Simply click on the CD cover.
AT LAST Ann Hampton Callaway This mellow set is collection of jazz standards, versatile pop songs and original compositions that Ann Callaway sings with sophistication and style. Accompanied by pianist Ted Rosenthal, bassist Jay Leonhart and drummer Victor Lewis as well as guest musicians Rodney Jones, Mads Tolling, Wycliffe Gordon and Emdein Rivera among others, Callaway breathes new life into such songs as “Comes Love,” and “Over The Rainbow.” She sings a stellar version of “Spain” and really captures the essence of this beautiful song with her lovely multi-octave voice. Chick Corea and Al Jarreau would be pleased with her excellent rendition of their song as will her audiences. Check out AT LAST, simply click on the CD cover.
SERENATA Armik
SERENATA captures Armik's virtuosic guitar artistry and impeccable techniques on eleven brand new songs. He explores fresh and uncharted territories filled with passionate new melodies, rhythms and unique harmonic approaches. Armik's sound sweep is natural, exotic and romantic as he unleashes his purest impulses and most deft inspirations on these breathtaking tracks. His works are significant and make this recording a solid, sharply focused addition to Armik s amazing repertoire and to the increasingly popular Nuevo Flamenco genre. It is one that you will surely enjoy. TO BUY THE CD, SIMPLY CLICK ON THE COVER!
JAZZ IN THE GARDEN Stanley Clarke Trio
Bass legend Stanley Clarke’s joyful spirituality was forged in the fertile fires of Return To Forever, Rite of Strings and a variety of great solo and collaborative projects. Lenny White has amassed an impressive resume of sideman work with hundreds of artists including his time with Clarke in Joe Henderson’s band as teens, and later with Corea, Clarke and DiMeola in Return To Forever. Hiromi, a protégé of Ahmad Jamal and Chick Corea made her recording debut only six years ago but has proved herself to be extremely knowledgeable and talented enough to jam with the likes of Clarke and White on Clarke’s latest release for Heads Up International titled JAZZ IN THE GARDEN. This CD is an art form of many dimensions driven by a mélange of musical styles. The rhythmic genius of Clarke is beautifully complimented by Hiromi and White in an array of classical, jazz, and oriental perspectives. Opening with a stirring piece called “Paradigm Shift” – an original 7 minute oeuvre from Clarke written upon the election of President Barack Obama- the program is a sure remedy for any complacent listener who has become lax in their deep listening skills. The beauty continues with the traditional Japanese folk song “Sakura Sakura” which is now filled with the percussive heartbeats of White’s drumming and rhythmic swing of Clarke’s bass and Hiromi’s amazing piano riffs. This composition is amazing because the trio has such a profound perception of each other’s intended accompaniments and improvisations even before they complete the phrasings. “Take The Coltrane” and “Someday My Prince Will Come” are both no-nonsense offerings played as duets, with the latter’s melody played straight-ahead by Clarke on the bass with Hiromi’s lyrical piano making a beautiful complimentary solo. JAZZ IN THE GARDEN is Clarke’s first acoustic jazz trio recording and by far one of his most versatile. Buy it today.
EARFOOD The Roy Hargrove Quintet Sound nutrition makes for a long life. That saying can be interpreted in a number of ways but there’s no mix-up about Roy Hargrove’s emphatic choice of musical ingredients on EARFOOD. Backed by his awesome ensemble of Justin Robinson, Gerald Clayton, Danton Boller, and Montez Coleman, the double-Grammy Award winning trumpeter has further developed his award-winning technique on 13 solid gold compositions and fully demonstrates his compositional skills and mastery of brass dynamics and tone control. Sweetened by the Midas touches of producer Larry Clothier, legendary engineer Al Schmitt and mastered by Doug Sax, each song is flawlessly steeped in tradition, sophistication and maintains the intuitive beauty, gently swing, hard grooves, and melodic simplicity that has endeared Hargrove to his multitude of fans. The set opens with Cedar Walton’s hard bop gem “I’m Not So Sure.” At the head, Hargrove and Robinson are in full harmonic tandem before Hargrove takes the lead with an impressively crafted solo. Robinson and Clayton continue with masterful solos of their own after which the entire ensemble returns to the head and closes with a rousing gospel filled riff. “Brown” abounds with the sophisticated harmonic lines of Hargrove and Robinson. Originally written for inclusion on his Grammy-winning DIRECTIONS IN MUSIC mainstream jazz recording with Herbie Hancock and the late Michael Brecker, Hargrove's muted trumpet colors overlap the sonic layers the ensemble has simmering just beneath the surface. This is a great song and one can only imagine the sensitive memories associated with it. It is followed by the crowd pleasing spiral sax and trumpet dance Hargrove and Robinson offer on “Strasbourg/St. Denis.” The reflective, pensive ballads - “Starmaker,” “Joy Is Sorrow Unmasked,” “Rouge,” “Divine,” and “Speak Low” - create an impressive nucleus for this masterful body of work. On each, Hargrove enamors his listeners with beautiful emotionally-charged tones and magnificent passages that arouse the senses and feed hidden desires. “Stinger,” “Style,” and the funk-inflected “Mr. Clean” all draw heavily on the swing and bebop idioms and are ripe with Hargrove’s rich melodic, rhythmic and harmonic articulation. EARFOOD is definitely the kind of sound nutrition that is sure to give Hargrove's fans an everlasting taste for his style and artistic endeavors. Buy EARFOOD now. Simply click on the CD cover.
ENERGY
FOURPLAY
Fourplay generated a lot of high energy when its members - keyboardist Bob James, bassist Nathan East, guitarist Larry Carlton and drummer Harvey Mason - got together to create 10 dynamic new tracks for their debut with the Heads Up International record label. ENERGY grafts a variety of sounds – R&B, pop, African and even classical/jazz fusion – to its unique contemporary jazz foundations while capturing the various moods inherent in the original music penned by the quartet. The set opens with “Fortune Teller,” a track built around a catchy riff, with plenty of interplay between Bob James and Larry Carlton atop the solid underscore provided by East and Mason. This song is beautiful and exotic. But the true exotic centerpiece is “Cape Town” a true East family affair. The track features the vocals of Nathan East and members of his family, was co-written with his brother and cousin and shares the memories of their grandparents’ journey to Cape Town, South Africa as missionaries. “Prelude For Lovers” features the lovely vocals of labelmate Esperanza Spalding and should bring her new fans and more appreciation for her amazing talents. This song is not only a contemporary jazz hit but can definitely be lauded by fans who are into the R&B urban cool sound. “Argentina” has an incredibly deft Latin vibe and is an absolutely beautiful cha cha cha that will have you dancing to your heart’s delight. “Sebastian” is a enchanting sketch Bob James composed based on a chord progression from a Bach piano composition! He brings us closer to his classical roots and works in an eclectic range of jazz riffs and vocalese that brings on a mood intertwined with some of the world’s best classical piano music. This song not only proves James’ versatility across the keyboards, but solidifies his talents as a composer, arranger, and performer - all of which have sustained him at the top of the contemporary jazz charts for decades. Fourplay is at the top of their game with this great new offering. ENERGY is by far one of the best recordings ever released by Fourplay and should be in your record collection today. Add this extraordinary ENERGY to your shopping cart now! BUY IT HERE.
