Wednesday, April 18, 2007

MOCEAN WORKER – ‘CINCO de MOWO!’ – NEW CD DUE OUT THIS SUMMER

On the fifth album of his career, appropriately titled Cinco De MOWO!, Adam Dorn a.k.a. Mocean Worker (pronounced Motion Worker) has assembled the quintessential feel-good summer record of 2007. To be released on his own label MOWO! Inc. (distributed by RYKO Distribution) in summer 2007, the opening number, quite simply, says it best: “Shake Ya Boogie.” In what has become the incomparable Mocean Worker sound, Dorn mixes and matches the best of modern beat-making with live musicians like trumpeters Herb Alpert (”Changes”) and Steven Bernstein (”Shake Your Boogie”), bassist Marcus Miller (”Brown Liquor”), alto saxophonist Cochemea Gastelum (”Les & Eddie” and “Son of Sanford”) and vocalists Morley (”I Got You”) and Alana Da Fonseca (”Que Bom”). Also contributing to the sessions from “the great beyond” is the late and legendary jazz icon Rahsaan Roland Kirk (”Reykjavik” and “Siss Boom Bah”).

“I don't hear anybody else making records that sound like this, so I'm happy to be that guy,” states Dorn. “That's why it was so significant to get Herb Alpert on board because much like he appealed to a lot of people back in the day, my records are likewise making single women in Iowa dance to that scary four letter word 'jazz' without them even knowing it. And simultaneously it's not compromising or dumbing the music down at all.”

Cinco De MOWO! follows up Mocean Worker's 2005 release Enter The MOWO!, which has gone on to become Adam Dorn's biggest record to date after having success at radio across the country. It's also where Dorn's true vision for the definitive Mocean Worker sound began to gel. Shedding the expectations of the electronica scene with which he was often associated at the outset of his career, Dorn began to more liberally embrace his jazz and funk influences, while keeping the focus on crafting songs with undeniable hooks. On Cinco De MOWO!, that vision has come into full focus. More than just funky break beats, tunes like “Shake Ya Boogie,” “Tickle It” and “Sis Boom Bah” find their way deep into the sub-conscious with melodies that reverberate long after the record has ended.

Dorn also further explored sounds and flavors from different periods in music's history, re-conceptualizing them for the 21st century. “Les & Eddie” and “Changes” are obvious nods to the late '60s/early '70s soul-jazz-funk gumbo of artists like Les McCann & Eddie Harris, while songs such as “Tickle It,” “Son of Sanford” and “Brown Liquor” draw from '30s big band swing. Jump ahead to the late '70s/early '80s and “Que Bom” parlays elements of Nuyorican soul. Go even deeper and “Pretty” is a contemporary Bossa Nova.

“This time out I wanted to mess around more with things that sounded old, but present them in a new context,” explains Dorn. “There are tunes that emulate music from the 1930s, like if Cab Calloway was making records now. That music had mass appeal, but was rooted in jazz. It's a perfect indication of what my goals were while I was making the album.”

On Cinco De MOWO!, the Mocean Worker sound is ultimately defined. From the opening rumble of “Shake Ya Boogie,” it's audibly apparent you've entered the world of Mocean Worker. Subtle improvisations emerge within tight arrangements, grooves appear inside of grooves, samples of samples are re-imagined and mingle comfortably among some of the world's finest living, breathing jazz musicians and always present are the hooks that make for the tastiest of tasty ear candy.

Dorn concludes: “I really just want people, all kinds of people to put this record on and have a nice time, enjoy themselves, clean their houses, drink themselves into a stupor, whatever it takes, it's all good.”

Mocean Worker is confirmed to appear at Bumbershoot 2007 and will host a residency this summer at New York City's Nublu, which will feature his live band and rotating cast of special guests.

SIRIUS SATELLITE RADIO TO PREMIRE SIRIUSLY SINATRA APRIL 19


Sirius Satellit (Nasdaq: SIRI) and the family of Frank Sinatra announced today that they will premiere their new, one-of-a-kind radio channel dedicated to the music, time and spirit of Frank Sinatra this Thursday, April 19 at 3 pm ET. The Siriusly Sinatra channel will debut with a special live performance from Frank Sinatra recorded at the Sands Hotel in Las Vegas in 1966.

Siriusly Sinatra will be the only channel available on radio produced by the Sinatra family and will broadcast recordings spanning Sinatra's entire career- including his extensive catalog of hits, rarities and his wonderful concerts - as well as favorite standard hits performed by other classic artists from our time. Siriusly Sinatra will be heard exclusively on Sirius Satellite Radio on channel 75.

In addition to playing Sinatra's music, the Siriusly Sinatra channel will feature The Chairman's Hour, hosted by Frank himself, created by the Sinatra family and SIRIUS using archival material. Nancy Sinatra will also host The Nancy Sinatra Show, a weekly show. The launch dates of these shows will be announced shortly.

Nancy Sinatra said, "My father's music finally has a home so every generation can drop by and listen to all of his wonderful music. I'm thrilled that all of dad's songs will be playing on SIRIUS around the clock"

"SIRIUS is proud to work with the Sinatra family to create this truly special channel," Scott Greenstein, SIRIUS President, Entertainment and Sports, said. "Over 60 years after his first single, Frank Sinatra still thrills music fans everywhere. The Siriusly Sinatra channel is certain to be one of the jewels in the SIRIUS lineup, and it's an example of the exclusive and outstanding music programming that makes SIRIUS The Best Radio on Radio."

A recipient of 13 GRAMMY(R) awards, Frank Sinatra and his recording career is unmatched in American popular music. From a recording catalog ranging from hits like "I'll Never Smile Again," which was #1 for twelve weeks in 1940, to the 1980 classic "Theme from New York, New York," few other recording artists have had the staying power of Sinatra in our shared musical experience. Reprise, the record company founded by Sinatra, recently released Sinatra: Vegas, the critically-acclaimed and best-selling box set of previously- unreleased, legendary Sinatra Las Vegas performances. Sinatra, a multi-media production, concluded a five-month engagement at the Palladium in London last year, and is scheduled to tour Europe and parts of Asia in the coming year.

Tuesday, April 17, 2007

BUDDY GUY TOUR DATES

Buddy Guy will perform the following concerts: April 3 at Birchmere in Alexandria VA, April 5 at Kimmel Center in Philadelphia PA, April 6 at House of Blues in Atlantic City NJ, April 7 at Count Basie Theatre in Red Bank NJ, April 8 at Wolf Den in Uncasville CT, April 9 at The Birchmere in Alexandria VA, April 11 at BB King's Blues Club in New York NY, April 12 at Hampton Beach Casino Ballroom in Hampton Beach NH, April 13 at B.B. King's Blues Club in New York City, April 14 at Zeiterion Theatre in New Bedford MA, April 15 at Baravon Opera House in Poughkeepsie NY, April 17 at Ridgefield Playhouse in Ridgefield CT, April 18 at House of Blues in Cleveland OH, April 20 at Centre in the Square in Kitchener ON, April 21 at Massey Hall in Toronto ON, April 22 at Hamilton Place Theatre in Hamilton ON, April 23 at Congress Center in Rouyn-Noranda QC, April 27 at House of Blues in New Orleans LA, April 28 at Double Decker Arts Festival in Oxford MS, May 11 at Harrah's Lake Tahoe in Stateline NV, May 12 at San Jose State University in San Jose CA, May 13 at Majestic Ventura Theatre in Ventura CA, May 15 at Coach House in San Juan Capistrano CA, May 17 at Humphrey's Concerts by the Bay in San Diego CA, May 18 at House of Blues in Las Vegas NV, May 20 at Ikeda Theatre in Mesa AZ, May 22 at Lensic Performing Arts Center in Santa Fe NM, May 24 at House of Blues in Dallas TX, May 25 at Rib America Festival in St. Louis MO, May 26 at Riverblast Festival in Dayton OH, June 16 at Playboy Jazz Festival in Los Angels CA, June 17 at Russian River Blues Festival in Guerneville CA, June 19 at Red Rocks Amphitheatre in Morrison CO, June 21 at Stubb's BBQ in Austin TX, June 23 at Monterey Bay Blues Festival in Monterey CA, June 29 at Casino Regina Show Lounge in Regina SK, June 30 at Saskatchewan Jazz Fest in Saskatoon SK, July 3 at Summerfest in Milwaukee WI, July 7-8 at Metropolis in Montreal QC, July 13 at Rib America Festival in Des Moines IA, July 16 at North Fork Theater in Westbury NY, July 19 at Paramount Theatre in Rutland VT, July 20 at Lowell Summer Music Series in Lowell MA, July 21 at Green River Festival in Greenfield MA, July 22 at New York State Blues Festival in Syracuse NY, August 1 at Music in the Zoo in Apple Valley MN, August 2 at Ravinia in Highland Park IL, August 5 at Chesapeake Bay Blues Festival in Annapolis MD, September 3 at Rib America Festival in Indianapolis IN, and September 15 at Wall to Wall Guitar Festival in Urbana IL.

JAZZ ASPEN SNOWMASS ANNOUNCES 2007 SUMMER LINE-UP

Jazz Aspen Snowmass (JAS) has just announced the most diverse summer season line-up in its 17-year history, including such artists as Herbie Hancock, Steve Winwood, Angelique Kidjo, The Black Crowes, The Allman Brothers Band, Joss Stone and many more. The premiere music festival opens with the June Festival, presented by Calamos Investments, which runs from June 21st through the 24th. The season runs as follows:

JAS June Festival - Rio Grand Town Park in downtown Aspen
June 21 - Herbie Hancock w/special guests Terence Blanchard, Larry Coryell and others, with Madeleine Peyroux opening
June 22 - Earth Wind and Fire w/JAS Academy Band opening
June 23 - Steve Winwood w/Angelique Kidjo opening
June 24 - The Black Crowes w/Marcus Miller opening
June 26 - An Evening with Wynton Marsalis & Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra (at the Benedict Music Tent).

JAS in July
July 19 - Christian McBride and Edger Meyer (at Harris Hall)
July 21 - JASummerNight Mambo (JAS' National Council education and performance benefit) (at ABO at Aspen Airport) featuring Arturo Sandoval and his Big Band. The event also features Carla Cook and Yerba Buena.

JAS Labor Day Weekend - At Snowmass Town Park
August 31st - Ben Harper & The Innocent Criminals w/openers Nickel Creek
September 1st - Joss Stone w/headliner TBA
September 2nd - the Allman Brothers Band w/openers TBA
September 3rd - Government Mule, the Derek Trucks Band with Susan Tedeschi w/openers TBA

For series tickets, call 866-JAS-TIXX or go on-line at jazzaspen.org. Tickets for the Wynton Marsalis performance and the Christian McBride/Edgar Meyer performance are available at the Aspen Music Festival Box Office, 970-925-9042 or aspenmusicfestival.com. Tickets for the JASummerNight Mambo w/Arturo Sandoval are available at 970-920-4996.

SIRIUS-XM RADIO MERGER UPDATE

SIRIUS Satellite Radio (Nasdaq: SIRI) and XM Satellite Radio (Nasdaq: XMSR) announced that SIRIUS Chief Executive Officer, Mel Karmazin, testified today in a hearing before the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science & Transportation regarding the SIRIUS-XM merger. Mr. Karmazin's testimony highlighted the significant benefits for consumers resulting from the proposed merger and the extensive competition that satellite radio faces from a wide range of players in the audio entertainment market. In his testimony, Mr. Karmazin stated:

The Combined Company Will Offer Consumers More Choice At Lower Prices

The key to getting more subscribers will not be to widen the price gap between free and what satellite radio charges. Instead, it will be to offer consumers a better value.

The merger will allow us to lower prices. Consumers who want fewer channels than currently offered will be able to select one or more packages of channels for less than $12.95 per month.

Importantly, significant portions of the savings achieved through the merger will be shared with customers immediately and in the long-term through lower prices and improved service offerings.

Satellite Radio is a Small Part of a Highly Competitive and Ever-Expanding Market for Audio Entertainment

The audio entertainment market today is vibrant, competitive, and innovative, and every indication is that it will be even more so in the future. We believe that the combination of SIRIUS and XM will be good for consumers as it will intensify this competition, expand the choices for consumers, and reduce prices.

The market for audio entertainment in the United States is robustly competitive and rapidly evolving. SIRIUS and XM must compete directly and intensely with a host of other audio providers for consumer attention.

The Merger Will Help Accelerate Deployment of Advanced Technology

The combined company will be able to offer consumers access to advanced technology sooner than would otherwise occur. In particular, the marriage of the companies' two engineering organizations will ensure better results from each dollar invested in research and development.

While no radio will become obsolete as a result of this transaction, we fully expect the merger to stimulate the development of new interoperable, highly portable, low-cost, and user-friendly devices.

SIRIUS, "The Best Radio on Radio," delivers more than 130 channels of the best programming in all of radio. SIRIUS is the original and only home of 100% commercial free music channels in satellite radio, offering 69 music channels. SIRIUS also delivers 65 channels of sports, news, talk,entertainment, traffic, weather and data. SIRIUS is the Official Satellite Radio Partner of the NFL, NASCAR, NBA and NHL, and broadcasts live play-by- play games of the NFL, NBA and NHL, as well as live NASCAR races. All SIRIUS programming is available for a monthly subscription fee of only
$12.95.

SIRIUS Internet Radio (SIR) is a CD-quality, Internet-only version of the SIRIUS radio service, without the use of a radio, for the monthly subscription fee of $12.95. SIR delivers more than 75 channels of talk, entertainment, sports, and 100% commercial free music. SIRIUS products for the car, truck, home, RV and boat are available in more than 25,000 retail locations, including Best Buy, Circuit City, Crutchfield, Costco, Target, Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, RadioShack and at shop.sirius.com. SIRIUS radios are offered in vehicles from Audi, Bentley, BMW, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Infiniti, Jaguar, Jeep(R), Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln, Mercury, Maybach, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Rolls Royce, Scion, Toyota, Volkswagen, and Volvo. Hertz also offers SIRIUS in its rental cars at major locations around the country.

XM (Nasdaq: XMSR) is America's number one satellite radio company with more than 7.6 million subscribers. Broadcasting live daily from studios in Washington, DC, New York City, Chicago, the Country Music Hall of Fame in Nashville, Toronto and Montreal, XM's 2007 lineup includes more than 170 digital channels of choice from coast to coast: commercial-free music, premier sports, news, talk radio, comedy, children's and entertainment programming; and the most advanced traffic and weather information. XM, the leader in satellite-delivered entertainment and data services for the automobile market through partnerships with General Motors, Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, Porsche, Subaru, Suzuki and Toyota is available in 140 different vehicle models for 2007.

HARRY CONNICK JR. TOUR DATES

Harry Connick, Jr. will perform the following concerts: April 4 at Stephens Auditorium in Ames IA, April 5 at Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis MN, April 6 at Milwaukee Theatre in Milwaukee WI, April 7 at Morris Performing Arts Center in South Bend IN, April 9 at State Theatre in Cleveland OH, April 11 at Benedum Center in Pittsburgh PA, April 12 at Stranahan Theatre in Toledo OH, April 13 at Shea's Performing Arts Center in Buffalo NY, April 14 at Hummingbird Centre in Toronto ON, April 15 at John Labatt Centre in London ON, April 17 at Scotiabank Place in Ottawa ON, April 19 at Providence Performing Arts Center in Providence RI, April 20 at Borgata Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City NJ, April 21 at Radio City Music Hall in New York NY, April 22 at Auditorium Theatre in Rochester NY, April 23 at Proctor's Theatre in Schenectady NY, April 25 at Wang Theatre in Boston MA, April 26 at Landmark Theatre in Syracuse NY, April 27 at Chevrolet Theatre in Wallingford CT, April 28 at Meyerhoff Symphony Hall in Baltimore MD, May 6 at New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in New Orleans LA, May 8 at Majestic Theatre in San Antonio TX, May 10 at Bass Performing Arts Center in Fort Worth TX, May 11 at CW Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands TX, May 12 at Nokia Theatre in Grand Prairie TX, May 14 at Sandia Casino Amphitheatre in Albuquerque NM, May 15 at Dodge Theatre in Phoenix AZ, May 17 at Embarcadero Marina Park South in San Diego CA, May 18 at Greek Theatre in Los Angeles CA, May 19 at McCallum Theatre in Palm Desert CA, May 20 at Arlington Theatre in Santa Barbara CA, May 22 at Saroyan Theatre in Fresno CA, May 23 at Rabobank Arena Theatre in Bakersfield CA, May 24 at Davies Hall in San Francisco CA, May 26 at Sonoma Jazz Festival in Sonoma CA, May 27 at Grand Sierra Resort in Reno NV, May 29 at INB Performing Arts Center in Spokane WA, May 30 at Hult Center for the Performing Arts in Eugene OR, June 1 at Arlene Schnitzer Hall in Portland OR, June 2 at Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery in Seattle WA, June 7 at Red Rocks in Morrison CO, June 21 at Wolf Trap in Vienna VA, June 24 at Chastain Park Amphitheatre in Atlanta GA, and June 30 at Montreal Jazz Festival/Place des Arts in Montreal QC.

NORAH JONES TOUR DATES - UPDATE

Norah Jones will perform the following concerts: April 13 at Chevy Theatre in Wallingford CT, April 14 at Orpheum Theatre in Boston MA, April 15 at Merrill Auditorium in Portland ME, April 17 at Performing Arts Center in Providence RI, April 18 at Madison Square Garden in New York NY, April 20 at Tower Theatre in Philadelphia PA, April 21 at Borgata Hotel & Casino in Atlantic City NJ, April 23 at DAR Constitution Hall in Washington DC, April 24 at War Memorial Auditorium in Greensboro NC, April 26 at Ryman Auditorium in Nashville TN, April 27 at Tabernacle in Atlanta GA, April 28 at Jazz & Heritage Festival in New Orleans LA, April 30 at BJCC in Birmingham AL, May 1 at Murat Theatre in Indianapolis IN, May 2 at Fox Theatre in St. Louis MO, May 4 at Michigan Theatre in Ann Arbor MI, May 5 at Riverside Theatre in Milwaukee WI, May 6 at Orpheum Theatre in Minneapolis MN, May 8 at Chicago Theatre in Chicago IL, May 9 at State Theatre in Cleveland OH, May 11 at Massey Hall in Toronto ON, May 12 at St. Denis Theatre in Montreal QC, June 1 at Red Rocks in Morrison CO, June 4 at Kansas City Music Hall in Kansas City MO, June 5 at Orpheum in Omaha HE, June 7 at Robinson Center Hall in Little Rock AR, June 8 at Mud Island Amphitheatre in Memphis TN, June 9 at Tulsa Performing Arts Center in Tulsa OK, June 11 at Nokia Theatre in Grand Prairie TX, June 12 at Jones Hall in Houston TX, June 15 at The Backyard in Austin TX, June 16 at Majestic Theatre in San Antonio TX, June 18 at Dodge Theatre in Phoenix AZ, June 19 at Embarcadero Marina Park in San Diego CA, June 21 at Greek Theatre in Los Angeles CA, June 22 at Santa Barbara Bowl in Santa Barbara CA, June 23 at Greek Theatre in Berkeley CA, June 25 at Mountain Winery in Saratoga CA, June 29 at Marion Oliver McCaw Hall in Seattle WA, and June 30 at Arlene Schnitzer Hall in Portland OR.

6th ANNUAL ROCHESTER INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL

The sixth annual Rochester International Jazz Festival has announced the lineup for its biggest and most diverse festival of creative improvised music. More than 600 artists from 13 countries will perform in more than 200 concerts at 18 venues during the nine-day event June 8-16. Headliners include Dave Brubeck, Wynton Marsalis with the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Jerry Lee Lewis, Madeleine Peyroux, Dr. John, Solomon Burke, Raul Midon, Jean Luc Ponty, John Scofield, Jack DeJohnette & Larry Goldings & MORE!

The diverse artist roster includes Dave Brubeck, Wynton Marsalis with the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra performing “Congo Square,” Jerry Lee Lewis, Madeleine Peyroux + Dr. John, Solomon Burke + Raul Midon, Jean Luc Ponty + Trio Beyond featuring John Scofield, Jack DeJohnette & Larry Goldings, plus Los Lonely Boys, Maceo Parker, Rusted Root, Shooter Jennings, Cowboy Mouth and Toots & The Maytalls

Other celebrated jazz, blues and world artists include, Eldar, Kyle Eastwood Band, Geri Allen Trio, Randy Brecker 5tet, Esperanza Spalding, Omar Sosa, Mamadou Diabate, Nossa Trio (Brazil), a new Nordic Jazz Now Series (featuring nine groups from Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden), Christian Scott, Bill Frisell Trio, Olu Dara, Dan Hicks & The Hot Licks and Corey Harris.

“This year marks the most extensive and by far the most diverse lineup we have ever presented,” said John Nugent, founder, Artistic Director and Co-producer. “Each year as we expand our event, our main goal is to present a multifaceted artistic celebration of all forms of American music in a smorgasbord of musical tastes. We always work hard to leave no ears behind!”

“Thanks to the City of Rochester’s increased support, we have been able to expand the number of free concerts and are adding another major free outdoor stage,” said Marc Iacona, Executive Director and Co-producer.

“That means more fantastic music for the tens of thousands of people who will come here from all over the nation, adding to Rochester’s reputation as one of the nation’s fastest growing music destinations.“

Festival Series – ticketed and free concerts (see www.rochesterjazz.com for schedule)

- Senator Jim Alesi Eastman Theatre Series: tickets $27.50-$80 plus service charges, on sale April 6 at 10 AM at all Ticketmaster outlets, 585-232-1900, www.ticketmaster.com and www.rochesterjazz.com. Also purchase at Ticket Express, 885 E Main St, (585) 222-5000 (service charge for Eastman shows is $1 per ticket).

Shows start at 8 p.m.
June 8: Raul Midon and King Solomon Burke
June 9: Jerry Lee Lewis
June 11: ESM-RIJF 2007 Jazz Scholarships Concert w/ John Fedchock
June 12: Jean Luc Ponty, Trio Beyond w/John Scofield, Jack DeJohnette & Larry Goldings
June 13: Dave Brubeck Quartet
June 14: Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra W/Wynton Marsalis Play Congo Square
June 15: Dr. John, Madeleine Peyroux

- Club Pass Series Presented by Lacy Katzen LLP - 125+ shows – Entry first-come first-served with the Club Pass or individual tickets for sale at the door, $20-$25, no advance sales. Kilbourn Hall, Max of Eastman Place, Harro East, Robert Mondavi Festival Tent, Montage Grille, High Fidelity, the Reformation Lutheran Church, Crowne Plaza State Street Bar and Grille. Purchase the Club Pass at all Ticketmaster outlets, 585-232-1900, www.ticketmaster.com and www.rochesterjazz.com. $109 + $4 service charge until April 6 at noon. $119 + $4 service charge April 6 at 12:01pm until festival begins, $129 June 8-16 during the festival while supplies last. Club Passes sold out last year.

- Museum & Gallery Series (free) – Memorial Art Gallery, George Eastman House, Rochester Museum & Science Center, Mary Jemison Riverboat, Strong National Museum of Play, and Rochester Public Library.

- Three Open Air Outdoor Stages (free) – City of Rochester Jazz Street Stage presented by Rochester Area Community Foundation on Gibbs Street, City of Rochester Stage at East Avenue at Chestnut St., and new this year, the City of Rochester Stage at East Avenue and Alexander St.

What’s New
- Third outdoor free stage, the City of Rochester Stage at East Ave. and Alexander St.
- Two new Club Pass venues, Harro East and Reformation Lutheran Church
- Nordic Jazz Now Series - featuring nine groups from Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden
- Three more venues in the Museums and Gallery Series, the Strong National Museum of Play, Rochester Museum and Science Center and Rochester Public Library join the previous venues, George Eastman House, Memorial Art Gallery, and Mary Jemison Riverboat on the Genesee River.
- The 6-part Music Series, Rochester International Jazz Festival, produced by WXXI Public Broadcasting in Rochester, will air this year on PBS stations around the country. The five half-hour programs and a one-hour compilation - including highlights from each episode - were shot in high-definition, and offer an unsurpassed look into the 2006 Festival.

18 Venues: The Festival is presented in 18 venues, most within walking distance, including the Eastman Theatre, Kilbourn Hall, Max of Eastman Place, Harro East Ballroom, Robert Mondavi Festival Tent, Montage Grille, High Fidelity, Memorial Art Gallery, George Eastman House, Rochester Museum & Science Center, Strong National Museum of Play, Mary Jemison Riverboat, Nordic Jazz Now at the Reformation Lutheran Church, Crowne Plaza State Street Bar & Grille, City of Rochester Jazz Street Stage presented by Rochester Area Community Foundation, City of Rochester East Ave. Stage at Alexander St., City of Rochester East Ave. Stage at Chestnut St.

International Soul: Artists will be coming from 13 countries and the U.S. including Lithuania, Sweden, Hungary, Scotland, Spain, Finland, Norway, Canada, Madagascar, Cuba, Netherlands, Brazil, and Russia.

The 2007 Lineup: 4 Brothers 7, 8Ryan Shaw, Andy Milne's "Dapp Theory, Alytaus Diksielandas (Lithuania), Andreas Petterson 4tet (Sweden), Avishai Cohen Trio, Bettye Lavette, Bill Frisell Trio, Bob Sneider Trio, Bonerama, Brockport Community Big Band, Catherine Russell, Christian Scott, CNYJO with Brett Z, Corey Harris, Corneliu Tutu (Hungary), Cowboy Mouth, Dan Hicks & The Hot Licks, Das Contras (Scotland), Dave Brubeck, Dave Glasser 4tet, Dave Rivello Ensemble + guest , Don Byron’s “Ivey Dyvey”, Eastman School of Music Trio, Eldar (Russia), Esperanza Spalding (Spain), Fedchock, Five Corners 5tet (Finland), Fred Costello Quartet , Fred Hersch Trio, Gap Mangione, Gene Bertoncini solo, Geri Allen Trio, Hannah Flanigan 4tet , Harry Allen Quartet, Hilario Duran Trio, Ilmiliekki Quartet (Finland), In The Country (Norway), James Moody 4tet, Jason & Bandwagon, Jazz Animated Films, Jens Winther European Quintet, Jerry Lee Lewis, Jonathan Kriesberg Trio, Josh Irving 4tet , Kyle Eastwood Band, Lalo, Layah Jane (Canada), Los Lonely Boys, Lotte Anker (Denmark), Maceo Parker, Madagascar Slim (Madagascar), Madeleine Peyroux + Dr. John, Mamadou Diabate Ensemble, Mambo Kings, Martin Rickert 4tet (Canada), Matt Wilson Arts & Crafts, Michelle Lambert Bebop for Babies, Midaircondo (Sweden), Mike Cottone Quartet, Motor Kings, Mr. Something Something, Music Educators Big Band, Nancy Kelly, Olu Dara, Omar Sosa (Cuba), Paradigm Shift + Gray/Marcus/Wycliffe, Paul Tillotson Love Trio, Peter Asplund Quartet (Sweden), Randy Brecker 5tet, Revision, Rick Holland-Evan Dobbins, Rik Emmit, Robin Eubanks EB3, Rusted Root, Saskia Laroo (Netherlands), Scott Goudie (Canada), Shooter Jennings, Shuffle Demons, Sisters Euclid (Canada), Solomon Burke + Raul Midon, Soul Rebels (New Orleans), Stephane Wrembel Trio, Steps Ahead, Ted Michaels Sings Sinatra, Tessa Souter, The Capital C’s, The Latin Side of Miles Davis, Tony Caramia, Toots & The Maytalls, Trio Beyond / Jean Luc Ponty, Tiempo Libre, Trio Nossa (Brazil), Vince Ercolamento Quartet, Walter Wolfman, Wynton Marsalis w/ Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Zanussi 5 (Norway), Zapp String Quartet (Netherlands) and Animated Jazz Shorts from the Hubley Studio.

RICK BRAUN'S JAZZ ATTACK

Smooth Jazz trumpeter Rick Braun has just completed a new, as-yet-untitled album of original tunes with saxman Richard Elliot, his ARTizen Music Group label partner. The CD will be released this summer, when Braun will be back on the road with Jazz Attack, the superstar group featuring Braun, Peter White, Richard Elliot and Jonathan Butler. Jazz Attack will kick off their tour on April 14th at the Jacksonville Jazz Festival in Jacksonville, Florida, then continue on to other jazz fests on the summer circuit, as well as regular dates. The foursome will be touring nonstop through late August, with several dates into October. Their band on the road will be drummer Rayford Griffin, guitarist Dwight Sills, keyboardist Ron Reinhardt and bassist Stan Sargeant.

Dates for Rick Braun's Jazz Attack Summer tour are as follows:
April 14th - Jacksonville, FL - Jacksonville Jazz Festival
April 15th - Santa Rosa Beach, FL - Sea Breeze Festival
April 20th - Phoenix, AZ - Celebrity Theater
April 21st - Las Vegas, NV - Las Vegas Jazz Fest
May 6th - West Palm Beach, FL - SunFest
May 12th - Temecula, CA - Thornton Winery
May 19th - Cerritos, CA - Cerritos Performing Arts
May 31st - Washington, DC - 15th Annual Capitol Jazz Festival
June 1st - York, PA - Shrine Capitol Performing Arts Center
June 2nd - Philadelphia, PA - Keswick Theatre
June 3rd - Westbury, NY - North Fork Theater
June 8th - Clearwater, FL - Ruth Eckard Hall
June 15th - Uncasville, CT - Mohegan Sun
June 20th - Cleveland, OH - Palace Theatre
June 21st - Kettering, OH - Frazee Pavillion
June 22nd - Detroit, MI - City of Southfield Civic Center
June 23rd - Healdsburg, CA - Rodney Strong Vineyards
June 24th - Big Bear Lake, CA - Big Bear Ski Resort
July 14th - Sacramento, CA - Radisson Hotel
July 20th - St. Louis, MO - The Pageant
July 21st - Chicago, IL - Chicago Theater
July 29th - Spring Mountain, NV - Jazz Under The Stars, Spring Mountain State Park
August 4th - Valencia, CA - The Paseo Tennis Club
August 11th - Long Beach, CA - Long Beach Jazz Festival
August 25th - Michigan City, IN - Guy Foreman Amphitheater, Washington Park
October 14th - Catalina, CA - Catalina Jazz Festival

ELVIS COSTELLO TOUR DATES

Elvis Costello will perform the following concerts: May 2 at House of Blues in West Hollywood CA, May 3 at Warfield Theatre in San Francisco CA, May 4 at Silver Legacy Casino in Reno NV, May 6 at Fillmore in Denver CO, May 8 at Myth in Maplewood MN, May 9 at House of Blues in Chicago IL, May 11 at State Theatre in Detroit MI, May 15 at Avalon in Boston MA, May 16 at Times Square Theatre in New York NY, May 18 at 9:30 Club in Washington DC, and May 19 at Electric Factory in Philadelphia PA.

ANDRE WARD RELEASES THIRD ALBUM 'CRYSTAL CITY'

Andre Ward will release his third album Crystal City on April 24, 2007. Now with his third release the growth and innovative approach showcased on his previous projects continues to be consistent. A product of Orpheus Music/Hush Productions, Crystal City is a ground-breaking masterpiece executive produced by Beau and Charli Huggins. “From Alex Bugnon to newcomer saxophonist Rob White, Orpheus Music / Hush Production’s name has been synonymous with quality music,” stated Beau Huggins, President of Orpheus Music. “Young, accomplished and edgy, Andre continues to build on the foundation laid by his Orpheus/ Hush predecessors, Najee and Kenny G.” Crystal City invites music lovers to a magical place that shines with unusual brilliance, where Andre Ward is the tour guide. The musical journey begins with the funk laced, They Keep Calling Me, followed by the dreamy Wishful Thinking, which is accented by the vocal prowess of Barbara Fowler, whose voice is reminiscent of a young Anita Baker. The Yasha produced, Andre’s Theme, is a smooth jazzy tune reflective of Ward’s laid back style, while, I Don’t Want To Be In Love, produced by Marc Nelson (AZ Yet) and Chicago Here We Go, offers a soulful excursion for R&B music fans. But one of the most meaningful and personal songs on the album is New Orleans Lights penned as a tribute to the great city and the birthplace of jazz, where Andre shows off his technical abilities with heartfelt emotion. Andre Ward continues to evolve into the type of musician that truly lives for the love of making music that respects the past, yet steps into the future. And with his newest release, he continues to do just that. Crystal City is the perfect escape that will keep Smooth Jazz on the map.

BRIAN MCKNIGHT VH1 SOUL TOUR TO BEGIN APRIL 25

Best-selling soul star Brian McKnight will hit the road in April for a U.S. tour supporting his current album "Ten," which was released by Warner Bros. Records in December. The tour, which is sponsored by VH1 Soul, begins April 25th in San Diego, California, and features support from multi-platinum R&B crooner Joe and gold-selling R&B songstress Sunshine Anderson.

McKnight will showcase tracks from "Ten," the Grammy-nominated singer, composer, and producer's tenth album overall. The album, which is McKnight's debut for Warner Bros. Records, has spawned two Top 5 singles at Urban AC radio, "Find Myself In You" and "Used To Be My Girl," with a third, "What's My Name," also climbing the Urban AC chart.

McKnight has sold more than 16 million records worldwide since his platinum self-titled debut was released in 1992. As a songwriter and producer, the Buffalo, New York, native has recorded and written with some of the music industry's biggest stars, including Mariah Carey, Justin Timberlake, Willie Nelson, Nelly, Robin Thicke and Kenny G. To learn more about him, check out the video for "What's My Name," or sign up for email news updates, click to www.brian-mcknight.com.

Brian McKnight's upcoming tour dates are as follows:
April 25 San Diego, CA Spreckles Theatre
April 26 Phoenix, AZ Celebrity Theatre
April 27 Oakland, CA Paramount Theatre
April 28 Fresno, CA Warnos Theatre
April 29 Los Angeles, CA Gibson Amphitheatre
May 3 St. Louis, MO Fox Theater
May 4 Detroit, MI Fox Theater
May 5 Chicago, IL Star Plaza
May 6 Cleveland, OH State Theater
May 9 Hartford, CT Chevrolet Theatre
May 10 Providence, RI Lincoln Park Events Center
May 11 Philadelphia, PA Tower Theatre
May 12 Washington, DC Constitution Hall
May 13 New York, NY Beacon Theatre
May 17 Ft. Pierce, FL Sunrise Theatre
May 19 Atlanta, GA Chastain Park
May 20 Virginia Beach, VA Verizon Wireless Amph.
May 25 Louisville, KY Whitney Hall
May 26 Charlotte, NC Crickett Pavilion
May 27 Orlando, FL House of Blues
June 1 Houston, TX Verizon Wireless Theatre
June 2 Dallas, TX Palladium Ballroom
June 3 Tulsa, OK Brady Theatre

eMusic MOMENTUM CONTINUES; TOPS 300,000 SUBSCRIBERS


eMusic, the world's largest retailer of independent music and the world's second largest digital music service after iTunes, continues its forward momentum: today the service announced that its subscriber base has topped 300,000 and that its global catalogue has reached 2.5 million tracks. The new subscriber tally comes approximately four months since eMusic hit the 250,000 subscriber mark.

"Consumers are now shaping the music industry," said eMusic President and CEO David Pakman. "They determine whether an artist is successful or not, what format music should take, and how much it should cost. eMusic's success to date demonstrates that there are many consumers out there unsatisfied by the mainstream who are interested in buying music they love that's well-priced, and in a format that plays on any device."

eMusic is continually adding to its genre-spanning catalogue of independent music. It now boasts more than 13,000 independent labels, including celebrated world music label Luaka Bop, Spanish indie label Siesta, extreme metal pioneers Relapse, and Swedish pop giants Labrador, as well as international aggregators like World's Fair (which distributes the indiepop label Rough Trade and innovative hip-hop label Def Jux), Phonofile, Idol Distribution and many more.

"eMusic can now bring home up to 1/2 our digital sales and with some records charging well over the 25% mark in total digital sales eMusic has become a huge account for Worlds Fair," commented Kevin Wortis, Co-Founder of World's Fair. "eMusic has been ahead of the curve now for years both with the subscription model and the non DRM encumbered downloads, its no wonder they have grown as rapidly as they have. Wortis added, "We've enjoyed the marketing opportunities and the knowledgeable staff immensely and on a personal note, strictly as a music fan myself, eMusic has become one of my favorite places to buy music."

Yale Evelev, representative for the Luaka Bop label, put it another way. "In the future we will be able to go to a site that has all the coolest indie music in one place. Oh, wait, we can do that now -- it's called eMusic."

A complete listing of labels and aggregators added to the ever-increasing eMusic catalogue are as follows:
Absolute Marketing & Distribution Ltd. (UK)
Actua Musica (Spain)
All Tomorrow's Parties (UK)
Amato Distribution (UK)
Artspages (Norway)
Audio Bee/GMG Entertainment (US)
Awal UK Ltd. (UK)
Bagpak Music (US)
Believe Digital (France)
Blanco Y Negro Music S.A. (Spain)
Bliss Corporation SRL (Italy)
BOA Cor S.A. (Spain)
CAM Cine TV Music (Italy)
Carcrash Records (US)
CBuJ Entertainment (US)
Cda Distribution LLC (US)
Click Record Productions (UK)
Curve Music Inc. (Canada)
Digital Delivery Services (US)
Direct to Tape (DTR) (US)
Ditto Ltd. (UK)
Edizioni Ishtar SNC (Italy)
Emubands Ltd. (Scotland)
EPM Musiconline.com (Holland)
Fractal Entertainment LLC (US)
Headphone Treats Records (US)
Hits the Fan Records (Scotland)
Horus Music Ltd. (UK)
Idol Distribution (France)
Idol Records (US)
Immergent (US)
In Da Jungle (Canada)
In2Music (Canada)
Inversion Media & Marketing SL (Spain)
Jazzland (Norway)
Kindred Rhythm (US)
Kontor Media (Germany)
Labrador AB (Sweden)
LAD Publishing & Records (Portugal)
Listenable Records (France)
Luaka Bop Inc. (US)
MAC Developments Ltd. (UK)
Mainstream Records (US)
Massproduktion (Sweden)
Munich Records BV (Netherlands)
Music Forte (US)
Navarre Corporation (US)
New World Records (US)
Nimbit, Inc. (US)
Oakland Media AB (Sweden)
Oseao Music Group (US)
Partisian Recordings (UK)
Pentatone (Netherlands)
Phonofile AS (Norway)
Pickwick Group Ltd. (UK)
Plumosus Inc. (US)
Pool Or Pond (US)
Popstock Distribucionnes SL (Spain)
Quazarcom.com (France)
Quinlan Road LLC (Canada)
Rebeat Music (Austria)
Record Collection (US)
Red Sauce Music Ltd. (UK)
Relapse Records / Release Entertainment (US)
RND Productions, Inc (US)
Rossiter Road (UK)
SCI Fidelity Records (US)
Service (Sweden)
Setanta Songs Ltd. (UK)
Shizzer! Entertainment (New Zealand)
Shock Distribution (Australia)
Show Off Recordings (Australia)
Siesta Records SL (Spain)
Sound Pollution (Sweden)
Spade Kitty Records LLC (US)
Star 69 Entertainment, Ltd. (US)
Subconcious Music (UK)
Swami Records LLC (US)
Syntax Distribution (US)
Third Stanza Music LLC (US)
Thirty Tigers (US)
Time Records, Inc. (US)
Twenty First Century Music Co. (US)
Upstairs Recordings (Canada)
Vendetta Digital Distribution (Switzerland)
Warlock (US)
West End Records (US)
White Whale Records (Canada)
World Sound LLC (US)
World's Fair (US)
X5 Music/X5 Group AB (Sweden)

eMusic sets itself apart from other digital music services not only by offering tracks in the MP3 format, but by appealing to the serious music fan who seeks material outside the commercial mainstream, including breaking indie rock, classical and jazz. With deep relationships with the world's top independent labels, guidance from the best music editorial experts and a passionate music community, eMusic caters to music fans aged 25+. As a subscription service, it offers plans starting at $9.99 for 30 songs a month up to $74.99 for 300 songs per month.

eMusic (http://www.emusic.com) is the world's leading digital retailer of independent music, second only to iTunes in number of downloads sold. The eMusic Web site offers a global catalogue of more than 2.5 million tracks from established and emerging artists in every genre from the world's leading independent labels. Created by music experts for music fans, it features award-winning editorial content, a vibrant online community and unrivaled music discovery tools. A subscription-based service that offers 25 free downloads at sign-up, eMusic gives consumers an inexpensive, low-risk way to explore great new music they wouldn't find otherwise, and unlike other download services, its universally compatible MP3 files play on any device including the iPod®. Based in New York with an office in London, eMusic.com Inc. is wholly owned by Dimensional Associates, Inc., the private equity arm of JDS Capital Management, Inc.

JUDGE RULES NO CHANGE IN MUSIC ROYALTY RATES

The Copyright Royalty Board (CRB) today upheld its earlier decision on fair royalty rates to be paid to musical artists and record labels for the use of their work on Internet radio. The three-judge panel denied motions by Internet radio operators for a rehearing of the Board's March 1, 2007 decision setting performance royalty rates for Internet radio from 2006 to 2010.

The CRB wrote in its decision, " ... none of the moving parties have made a sufficient showing of new evidence or clear error or manifest injustice that would warrant rehearing. To the contrary ... most of the parties' arguments in support of a rehearing or reconsideration merely restate arguments that were made or evidence that was presented during the proceeding."

SoundExchange Executive Director John Simson declared that this is a victory for performing artists and record labels who work long and hard to produce music for all to enjoy. "Our artists and labels look forward to working with the Internet Radio industry -- large and small, commercial and non-commercial -- so that together we can ensure it succeeds as a place where great music is available to music lovers of all genres," said Simson.

"AFTRA recording artists applaud the Copyright Royalty Board for upholding their decision on Internet radio," said Kim Roberts Hedgpeth, National Executive Director of the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA). "They deserve to be paid fairly for the use of the creativity, talent, and hard work they put into making music. Internet radio is growing and successful because fans want to listen to the music created by artists. The CRB's decision recognizes that, as these businesses grow, both featured and non-featured artists should be compensated at fair market rates for their contributions to the growth of these companies."

The CRB also wrote, " ... it appears that all evidence discussed in the motions had either been discovered during the proceeding or could have been discovered during the proceeding, with reasonable diligence." Additionally, the CRB found: "In the absence of an adequate showing of new evidence, the parties' arguments in their respective motions amount to nothing more than a rehash of the arguments that the Judges considered in the Initial Determination."

Michael Huppe, General Counsel of SoundExchange, in noting that SoundExchange is now looking forward to the next steps in the wake of the CRB ruling, said, "We are gratified that the CRB has upheld its decision. With the resolution of these motions, it is now time to move forward with business. It's in everyone's best interest to ensure a vibrant and thriving marketplace for Internet Radio and we intend to work with webcasters towards achieving that goal."

Additionally, the CRB denied the request of webcasters to stay implementation of the new royalty rates (2006-2010) until all legal appeals had been exhausted. In doing so, the CRB pointed to specific language established by Congress in the Copyright Act. The CRB wrote, " ... Congress, not the Judges determined the effective dates for the royalty rates ..." The CRB went on, "Moreover Congress determined that these rates would go into effect, notwithstanding any pending motions for rehearing..."

Barry Bergman, President of the Music Managers Forum-US, said, "For many artists a royalty check can mean the difference between continuing to create new and exciting music for a living, or allowing musical talents to be silenced. In recognizing the value musical artists bring to the success of Internet radio, the CRB has taken a necessary step in helping to ensure that many artists are able to continue using their special talents which are enjoyed by all."

The CRB also made two points of clarification regarding its Initial Decision. First, at the request of the webcasters, the CRB will allow them to use estimated ATH (Aggregate Tuning Hours) measures to determine audience listening for 2006 and 2007. However, the CRB said this is only for a transitional period, during which webcasters who have not yet implemented systems to track the music that they play will have the chance to do so.

Also, in response to SoundExchange's request for clarification, regarding whether the Initial Decision covers webcasting services delivered over cellular networks, the CRB indicated it did.

On March 2, 2007, the Copyright Royalty Board issued a fair and reasonable decision that sets compensation rates to be paid artists and record labels for the public performance of their works by Internet radio broadcasters from 2006-2010. The three-judge panel heard testimony from dozens of witnesses and conducted a comprehensive review of tens of thousands of pages of evidence submitted by all interested parties over an 18-month period. The decision is a reflection of the need for artists to be fairly compensated for the performance of their work by webcasters who benefit - financially or otherwise - from their talents. As the music industry evolves from CD-only sales to multiple distribution platforms it is critical that creators of music share in revenues from all platforms.

SoundExchange is the first performance rights organization in the United States to collect and distribute digital audio transmission royalties to artists and sound recording copyright owners. SoundExchange represents over 2000 record companies and thousands of recording artists, and is seeking out more labels and artists who are owed royalties for sound recordings played on digital cable and satellite television music services, satellite radio services or streamed via non-interactive webcast. The non-profit organization is governed by a board of artist and label representatives. Services include track level accounting of performances to all members and collection and distribution of foreign royalties to all members.

Monday, April 16, 2007

50th MONTEREY JAZZ FESTIVAL LINEUP ANNOUNCED


The Monterey Jazz Festival Presented by Verizon celebrates its 50th in grand style as the artists who have shaped both the Festival and the history of jazz reunite with the stages that have made MJF the longest running jazz festival in the world. The world-renowned event takes place September 21-23, 2007 on the familiar oak-studded and beautiful grounds of the Monterey Fairgrounds, the location of the Festival since 1958. Featuring some of the biggest living legends in the jazz world, MJF/50 promises to be the key event of 2007 in the world of live music.

Tickets on sale Friday, March 30th on the Monterey Jazz Festival’s website, www.montereyjazzfestival.org or by phone at (925) 275-9255. High resolution photos available at www.montereyjazzfestival.org/media/index.htm. A stellar list of artists will grace the Arena/Lyons Stage including Diana Krall, Sonny Rollins, Ornette Coleman, the Dave Brubeck Quartet featuring the legendary guitarist Jim Hall, John McLaughlin and the 4th Dimension, the Gerald Wilson Orchestra, Los Lobos, bluesmen Otis Taylor and James Hunter, Cuban vocalist Issac Delgado and the supergroup of Dave Holland, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Chris Potter and Eric Harland.

2007 MJF Artist-In-Residence, trumpeter Terence Blanchard, will appear with the MJF Chamber Orchestra, with his own quintet, with the Next Generation Jazz Orchestra, and also with the MJF 50th Anniversary All-Stars, featuring James Moody, Nnenna Freelon, Benny Green, Kendrick Scott, and Derrick Hodge. MJF/50 Showcase Artist, Jim Hall, will appear with his own quartet, in duo with pianist Geoff Keezer, and with Dave Brubeck's Quartet. And MJF/50 Commission Artist, Gerald Wilson, will premiere Monterey Moods, his third milestone composition for MJF.

Arena artists also appearing on the Grounds include bluesmen Otis Taylor and James Hunter, guitarist Jim Hall, trumpeter Terence Blanchard, Gerald Wilson and his Orchestra, the MJF 50th Anniversary All-Stars, featuring Terence Blanchard, James Moody, Nnenna Freelon, Benny Green, Kendrick Scott, and Derrick Hodge; and bassist Dave Holland, appearing with Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Chris Potter and Eric Harland.

Friday, September 21 will kick off the Festival with the multi-cultural and multi-dimensional talents of Cuban singer Issac Delgado; iconic bassist Dave Holland, appearing with Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Chris Potter and Eric Harland in a special all-star band; and the influential and mesmerizing guitarist John McLaughlin. On the Grounds, the vibe will be no less electric with the New Grooves show in Dizzy’s Den being visited by three slices of funk bands from New Orleans, Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk, the Brass Funk Rock group Bonerama, and the jazz-inflected Papa Grows Funk.

Also on Friday night, in a meeting of genius minds, Jim Hall and Geoff Keezer will perform as an understated yet intense duo; the freewheeling guitarist Anthony Wilson and his Nonet will perform, and the cutting-edge pianist Craig Taborn and his Trio will forge new sounds. The Grounds will also feature the Terence Blanchard Quintet performing their visionary and rootsy brand of jazz, the straight-ahead groove of Along Came Betty, and the gifted students of the Berklee-Monterey Quartet.

Saturday, September 22 will showcase a world of music from the blues to the symphonic, with the best-of-the-best in between. The Arena/Lyons Stage will rock in the afternoon with the raw blues sounds of artists Otis Taylor and James Hunter, followed by the legendary Los Lobos, featuring their own blend of blues, rockabilly, and Latin jazz, mixed with the music of their Mexican-American heritage. Evening on the Arena/Lyons Stage will turn from the blues to the highly anticipated debut of two large scale pieces—Artist-In-Residence Terence Blanchard’s Requiem for Katrina with the MJF Chamber Orchestra, and 2007 Commission Artist Gerald Wilson’s Monterey Moods, his third commission for the historic anniversaries of the Festival (25th, 40th, and 50th). The evening will end with the reigning queen of cool, Diana Krall in her third appearance at Monterey , her first MJF visit since 1999.

Saturday, the MJF grounds will witness an international cornucopia of blues, straight-ahead jazz, elegant vocalists, the avant-garde, jazz legends, and rising stars. Appearing will be the quartets of legendary six-stringers Jim Hall (MJF’s 2007 Showcase Artist) and Kenny Burrell, plus the electrified bluesy Mimi Fox Trio; rising young trumpeters Sean Jones and Christian Scott; the rollicking pianism of the Cyrus Chestnut Trio and the Shigeru Morishita Quintet; the radiant power of vocalists Ernestine Anderson and Lynne Fiddmont; the trailblazing drummer Rashied Ali and his Quintet; and the down-home traditional and electric-trance blues of James Hunter and Otis Taylor. Also featured will be the blues supergroup, The Honeydripper All-Stars, who are the subject of the John Sayles new film Honeydripper, which will be previewed in the Festival's Jazz Theater. Gerald Wilson and his Orchestra will also perform on the grounds on Saturday, as will bassist Dave Holland, with Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Chris Potter and Eric Harland.

Sunday, September 23 will cap off the 50th celebratory weekend in style, displaying the rich artistry of the living musical legends that have made Monterey the favorite jazz festival in the world (voted best jazz festival in the 2006 and 2007 JazzTimes Readers’ Poll), featured with the future stars of jazz. On the Sunday afternoon Arena/Lyons Stage, Los Angeles County High School for the Arts Big Band (winner of the 37th Annual National High School Competition at the Next Generation Festival) and the Next Generation Jazz Orchestra will take the stage along with Terence Blanchard. Ornette Coleman, one of the primary architects of jazz, will close Sunday's show, performing with his Grammy-nominated group.

Sunday night will offer a fitting culmination to the Festival's historic celebration with the premiere of the Monterey Jazz Festival 50th Anniversary All-Stars. Terence Blanchard, vocalist Nnenna Freelon, pianist Benny Green, legendary saxophonist James Moody, drummer Kendrick Scott, and bassist Derrick Hodge will perform; each has a strong connection with the Festival.

Blanchard is the 2007 Artist-In-Residence at Monterey, James Moody has been performing at Monterey since 1963, and Benny Green is a graduate of the Festival's world-renowned Jazz Education Programs, having performed as a high schooler with the Monterey Jazz Festival High School All-Star Big Band in the 1970s. Nnenna Freelon, a regular performer at MJF, also has connections with MJF Jazz Education Programs, having performed at the Festival's annual High School Jazz Competition. Kendrick Scott performed with the Berklee-Monterey Quartet at the Festival in 2000. This special group will tour across 60 cities in the United States , from January through March of 2008.

Sunday night will also witness the return of one of the patriarchs of the Festival, Dave Brubeck. Fans will be treated to a meeting of the minds as the Brubeck Quartet performs with a legendary architect and innovator of modern jazz guitar, Jim Hall, who also performed at the first Monterey Jazz Festival.
The finale on Sunday night will be the appearance of Sonny Rollins, the 6th time the legendary artist has performed at the Festival. The final night of the 50th Monterey Jazz Festival promises to rival the early MJF years, offering one of the most richly intense and memorable lineups in memory.

Sunday Grounds artist lineup will offer a gourmet selection of internationally known masters and young emerging talent. Audiences can enjoy the piano mastery of the Kenny Barron Trio and Jacky Terrasson, the unprecedented talents of Richard Galliano playing bebop accordion, and the jagged new music of the Smith Dobson V Quintet. The historic Monterey Jazz Festival 50th Anniversary All-Stars will also play a set on the Grounds, with additional appearances by MJF stalwart drummer Benny Barth and his Trio, featuring Buddy Montgomery. Also on Sunday will be the groove-oriented audience favorite, the "Hammond B-3 Blowout" featuring a double bill of the Joey DeFrancesco Trio and Atsuko Hashimoto Trio (with Houston Person and Jeff Hamilton).

Sunday marks the return of Family Day sponsored by Macy's, reprising the concept launched at the 2006 MJF. Family Day features activities and fun for fans and families of all ages, including a Percussion Playshop where kids can have a hands-on experience with percussion instruments, the “Jazzy Jumper” where kids can bounce the day away, musical entertainment by the Banana Slug String Band, Sambada, and the country’s best high school bands appearing in nearby Dizzy’s Den.

In a move to mark the Festival's 50th Anniversary and leave a legacy for future fans,MJF will open a brand new area and a brand new venue on the grounds of MJF/50. Lyons Lane, named in honor of MJF founder Jimmy Lyons, will be an expansion of the grounds located adjacent to the Arena entrance on the Festival midway. As patrons stroll down the lane, they will relive the history, images, and music of the Monterey Jazz Festival in special MJF history displays. Partners–including Starbucks Coffee and ZonePerfect Nutrition Bars–will be distributing complimentary coffee and samples on the Lane, while partners from Borders will be hosting autograph sessions with MJF artists at a Borders Store on Lyons Lane .

At the end of Lyons Lane , fans will discover a brand new MJF venue called Lyons Lounge. Lyons Lounge was established in honor of MJF's historic milestone and is dedicated to the future. The Lounge will offer fans a hip jazz club, with DJ Logic and San Francisco DJ Vinnie Esparza remixing jazz, hip-hop, and dance music all weekend in a setting that promises to be the place to be at MJF/50.

The Festival is celebrating its 50th year with a range of activities and offerings. The milestone year will kick-off with a Golden Gala Celebration on April 7, 2007 at Tehama Golf Club. The evening will feature cocktails, dinner, entertainment, and the premiere presentation of the MJF Legends Award to Dave Brubeck. Space is still available as of this date. Fans are urged to contact cynthia@montereyjazzfestival.org or (831) 373-3366 for more information.

Other pre-Festival events include an evening celebration of art and jazz at the Monterey Museum of Art on June 26, 2007. The event will include a preview and private viewing of the museum's "Henrí Matisse: Jazz" exhibition and a concert with special guest Terence Blanchard. Reservations and information are available from the museum at (831) 372-5477 extension 20, or from www.montereyart.org. 50 years of MJF images and memorabilia are also scheduled to be on display at Monterey Peninsula Airport this fall.

Art and jazz feature prominently in the Festival's new publication "The Art of Jazz: Monterey Jazz Festival / 50 Years" telling the story of the Festival through its graphic imagery and photographic moments, capturing the MJF experience through posters, program covers, and exclusive photographs dating back to 1958. “The Art of Jazz” also includes a list of artists who have performed at MJF, along with a decade-by-decade look at the world and the Festival. "The Art of Jazz" will be available for purchase online at www.montereyjazzfestival.org.

Another aspect of the festival will be seen—and heard—with the formation of Monterey Jazz Festival Records, in conjunction with the Concord Music Group. Since 1958, the Festival has recorded nearly all of its Arena shows, leaving us a true legacy, a living history of jazz. MJF is issuing these rare and rarefied recordings, along with recordings of new groups performing at the Festival, through Monterey Jazz Festival Records. Fans may sign up for the MJF e-mail list at www.montereyjazzfestival.org for more details and a release schedule.

MJF’s Front Box Auction presents another opportunity for jazz fans to enjoy the Monterey Jazz Festival while supporting Jazz Education. From March 30 until June 1, patrons can bid to sit at the front of the Arena with three of their closest friends in a Front Box for the 50th Anniversary. For more information, please visit www.montereyjazzfestival.org.

During the Festival, fans are also encouraged to visit the MJF Booth in the center of the midway to participate in the MJF Silent Auction featuring unique jazz memorabilia and collector’s items, with all auction proceeds benefiting MJF Jazz Education Programs.

The Festival's 9th Annual Golf ‘n’ Jazz Tournament is a rare opportunity to play Pasadera, an outstanding Jack Nicklaus Signature Golf Course. This exclusive event includes a buffet lunch, jazzy gift bag, and golf with cart, plus an evening to remember at elegant Pasadera Country Club following the Tournament. The evening will feature cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, a sumptuous buffet dinner, a jazz concert and live auction, plus the golf awards ceremony. The Tournament takes place on Thursday, September 20, 2007; registration takes place by phone, (831) 373-3366 and online at www.montereyjazzfestival.org. Fans are urged to visit the MJF website for more details about how to participate in this longtime MJF favorite. All proceeds are invested in MJF’s Jazz Education Programs.

The 3rd annual Jazz with Steinbeck event will offer fans an exclusive supper club evening in support of MJF’s Jazz Education Programs and the National Steinbeck Center ’s Youth Programs. This very special event takes place on Wednesday, September 19 from 5:30 pm to 10:00 pm at the unique National Steinbeck Center , with jazz entertainment by Kim Nalley, Ed Reed, and the Jazz Birds, and a bountiful dinner by celebrity Chef Cal Stamenov. Jazz with Steinbeck is sponsored by Scheid Vineyards, Rabobank, and Lombardo and Gilles. The evening is limited to 150 people and reservations are available from the National Steinbeck Center at (831) 775-4723.
Partners play an important role in helping the Festival fund its Jazz Education Programs, with efforts led by Presenting Partner, Verizon, now celebrating their 23rd year in partnership with the Monterey Jazz Festival.

· Bose returns as a valued partner, and MJF fans will once again be able to enjoy big screen Arena simulcasts featuring Bose audio in the Bose Performance-at-Home Pavilion.

· Klub Korbel (returning with a Korbel champagne bar in the Fairgrounds' Turf Club Patio) will also feature Arena simulcasts with Bose audio. Bose audio will be featured in the Courtyard Stage performances as well.

· Starbucks Coffee also returns as an MJF Partner, offering complimentary coffee to fans on Lyons Lane .

· Yamaha, a long time partner of both MJF and our Jazz Education Programs, will once again be providing Yamaha Pianos and Drums on MJF/50 stages, and music on the Yamaha Disklavier with Sue Downs on the Courtyard Stage.

· North Coast Brewing Company returns as Official Beer for MJF/50. Fans will find a variety of North Coast brews all around the grounds of the Monterey Jazz Festival, led by their lauded Brother Thelonious Belgian-style abbey ale.

· Returning partner JetBlue Airways continues to offer our fans low fares, new planes and free DIRECTV at every comfy leather JetBlue seat. Fans are encouraged to book travel on JetBlue at the following address: www.jetblue.com/default.asp?source=montereyjazz&

· Borders has joined the MJF family in a big way, partnering with MJF/50 and with the Next Generation Festival. In addition to visiting the Borders store at the center of the MJF/50 midway, fans are invited to look for Borders on Lyons Lane .

· Jekel and Five Rivers return as Official MJF/50 wines, and will be served all around the grounds at MJF/50.

· Returning Media Partners, the San Jose Mercury News and KKSF, will be helping MJF get the word out about the Festival and its Jazz Education Programs.

· Macy's returns as sponsors of Family Day at Monterey , hosting special entertainment and activities for younger jazz fans and fun for the whole family on Sunday, September 23, 2007.

· MJF also welcomes back Monterra Realty and Tehama Realty, returning as Official Real Estate Partners of the 50th Monterey Jazz Festival.

The Monterey Jazz Festival also receives invaluable support for the Festival and its Jazz Education Programs from the William and Flora Hewlett Foundation and the National Endowment for the Arts, as well as from generous grantors, donors, and individual contributors.

The Monterey Jazz Festival encourages jazz fans to purchase tickets early for the 50th Annual Monterey Jazz Festival Presented by Verizon. Arena Packages traditionally sell out and are available only on a first come, first served basis.
Tickets on sale Friday, March 30th on the Monterey Jazz Festival’s website, www.montereyjazzfestival.org or by phone at (925) 275-9255. High resolution photos available at www.montereyjazzfestival.org/media/index.htm
MJF/50 Highlights Include:

· Return of jazz legends Sonny Rollins, Ornette Coleman, Dave Brubeck, Diana Krall, and Jim Hall

· World Premiere of Commission Artist Gerald Wilson’s Monterey Moods

· Artist-In-Residence Terence Blanchard’s Requiem for Katrina with the MJF Chamber Orchestra

· Dave Holland with Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Chris Potter, and Eric Harland to record live sets for MJF Records

· New venue, Lyons Lounge, featuring DJ Logic and Vinnie Esparza remixing jazz, hip-hop, and dance music
· Premiere of MJF 50th Anniversary All-Star Band with James Moody, Nnenna Freelon, Terence Blanchard, and Benny Green

· Friday’s "New Grooves in New Orleans " featuring Dumpstaphunk, Bonerama, and Papa Grows Funk

· Sunday’s “Hammond B-3 Blowout” featuring the Joey DeFrancesco Trio and Atsuko Hashimoto Trio (with Houston Person and Jeff Hamilton)

· Lyons Lane featuring MJF history, artist meet 'n' greets, complimentary coffee, and more in newly created area in honor of MJF/50

· Return of Sunday's “Family Day” sponsored by Macy's, with fun for all ages
· Debut of MJF coffee table art book, "The Art of Jazz: Monterey Jazz Festival/50 Years" featuring MJF images from the first Festival through the 50th

· Launch of Monterey Jazz Festival Records, featuring the release of rare and rarified recordings from the last 50 years on CD in conjunction with Concord Music Group

Arena/Lyons Stage:

· Friday, 9/21: John McLaughlin and the 4th Dimension, Issac Delgado, Dave Holland with Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Chris Potter and Eric Harland

· Saturday, 9/22: Los Lobos, Otis Taylor, James Hunter, Diana Krall, Gerald Wilson Orchestra premiering Monterey Moods, Terence Blanchard Quintet w/Monterey Jazz Festival Chamber Orchestra featuring Requiem for Katrina

· Sunday, 9/23: Ornette Coleman, Sonny Rollins, Dave Brubeck Quartet w/special guest Jim Hall, Next Generation Jazz Orchestra, Los Angeles County High School for the Arts Big Band, and Monterey Jazz Festival 50th Anniversary All-Stars w/Nnenna Freelon, James Moody, Terence Blanchard & Benny Green
Partial List of Grounds Artists:

· Friday, 9/21: “New Grooves in New Orleans” with Dumpstaphunk, Bonerama, and Papa Grows Funk; Terence Blanchard Quintet, Jim Hall/Geoff Keezer Duo, Craig Taborn Trio, Anthony Wilson Nonet, Along Came Betty, Berklee-Monterey Quartet, DJ Logic, and Vinnie Esparza

· Saturday, 9/22: Gerald Wilson Orchestra, Dave Holland with Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Chris Potter and Eric Harland, Jim Hall Quartet, Kenny Burrell Quartet, Ernestine Anderson, Rashied Ali Quintet, Christian Scott, Cyrus Chestnut Trio, Lynne Fiddmont, Mimi Fox Trio, James Hunter, Otis Taylor Band, Honeydripper All-Stars, Sean Jones, Shigeru Morishita Quintet, Sambada, DJ Logic, and Vinnie Esparza

· Sunday, 9/23: “Hammond B3 Blowout” with Joey DeFrancesco Trio and Atsuko Hashimoto Trio (with Houston Person and Jeff Hamilton); Kenny Barron Trio, Jacky Terrasson, Benny Barth Trio with Buddy Montgomery, Richard Galliano, Smith Dobson V Quintet, Sambada, “Family Day” with the Banana Slug String Band; DJ Logic, Vinnie Esparza, the country’s best high school bands, DownBeat Blindfold Test and more!
Tickets on sale Friday, March 30th on the Monterey Jazz Festival’s website, www.montereyjazzfestival.org or by phone at (925) 275-9255.

DIONNE WARWICK RECORDING NEW ALBUM

Dionne Warwick says that only four months after releasing her last studio album, she's hard at work on a new gospel collection. Warwick posted to fans on her official website dionnewarwick.info that, "March came in like a lion for us here in (New) Jersey, tons of snow and ice making travel a bit dicey, but giving me a chance to do a bit of recording. I am in the process of doing a gospel CD, and am having a wonderful time. It will feature a few voices of my choir, and also my sister Dee Dee (Warwick), so be on the look out for this." Warwick did not mention when the set would be completed or released. Warwick also went on to reveal that she'll receive an honorary degree later this spring, saying that, "I am receiving an honorary degree from Chicago University for humanitarian reasons, and of course I am very excited about this." Last November Warwick released an album of duets, titled My Friends And Me, which was produced by her son Damon Elliott. The album featured collaborations with EstefGladys Knight, Olivia Newton-John, Gloria Estefan, and others.

Dionne Warwick has a handful of U.S. dates before heading out on an extended European tour:
April 28 - Brooklyn, NY - Brooklyn Center for the Performing Arts
May 5 - West Wendover, NV - Peppermill Casino
May 14 - Newark, NJ - New Jersey Performing Arts Center
May 17 - Winston-Salem, NC - Winston-Salem Entertainment-Sports

CHILL GROOVES & SMOOTH JAZZ NEWS: JEFF LORBER, KURT ELLING, CHUCK LOEB, EARL KLUGH & MORE...

Jeff Lorbers new release He Had A Hat features the revered keyboardist's newest efforts with special guests The Krim Symphonic Orchestra, singers Paula Cole and Eric Benet, guitarist Paul Jackson Jr.and a variety of solid jazz figures. The 13 tracks are: Anthem For A New America, He Had A Hat, Grandma's Hands, Surreptitious, All Most Blues, Orchid, BC Bop, The Other Side Of The Heart, Hudson, Super Fusion Unit, Eye Tunes, Requiem For Gandalf, and Burn Brightly. Jeff Lorber recently did an in-store performance and signing at the Borders in San Diego, then tours through April with Eric Marienthal, Dave Weckl and Brian Bromberg before hooking up with Summer Storm with Norman Brown from June onward, wrapping up with the Dave Koz Cruise from November 4th through the 11th.

Kurt Elling's new release – Night Moves via Concord- is the virtuoso vocalese performer's debut release on the Concord imprint. Recorded with bassist Rob Amster, drummer Willie Jones III and pianist-arranger Laurence Hobgood, the disc also features special guests the Escher String Quartet, bassist Christian McBride, Yellowjackets tenor saxophonist Bob Mintzer, guitarist Guilherme Monterio, keyboardist Rob Mounsey and harmonica experts Howard Levy and Gregoire Maret. Tracks include Nightmoves, Tight, Change Partners/If You Never Come To Me, Undun, Where Are You? And We'll Fly, The Waking, The Sleepers, Leaving Again/In The Wee Small Hours of the Morning, Body & Soul, I Like The Sunrise, Europe Bonus Luiza, Europe Bonus Body & Soul (Live in Amsterdam), Japan Bonus Well, Did You Evah (What A Swell Party This Is), and web bonus Body & Soul (Kennedy Center Cut). Kurt Elling kicked off his tour on April 12th at Grinnell College in Grinnell, Iowa and stays on the road through August 29th at the Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles.

Alex Bugnon’s Ultimate Alex Bugnon via Mosaic and Earl Klugh's Ultimate Earl Klugh via Mosaic discs are both greatest hits packages and Klugh's track listing includes fan favorites Angelina, Living Inside Your Love, Dr. Macumba, Heart String, Kari, Wishful Thinking, Rainbow Man, Brazilian Stomp, Midnight in San Juan, Jo Ann's Song, Movin' On, Maybe Tonight, Desert Paradise, and a revised version of Angelina. Alex Bugnon is performing on April 20th and 21st at Zanzibar Blue in Philadelphia. Earl Klugh performs at the Night of Guitars with Bill Frisell from May 3rd to 6th at the Manchester Craftsmens Guild in Pittsburgh.

Chuck Loeb has just finished work on the latest Gerald Veasley project and has produced a track for saxophonist Art Sherrod Jr. He’s also working on a demo CD for his daughter Lizzie.

Chick Corea, Bela Fleck, Kenny Garrett and John Pizzarelli will topline this year’s Burlington Discover Jazz Festival in Bermont, which runs for the first 10 days in June.

CD101.9 Smooth Jazz in New York is presenting concerts at the Bergen County PAC: Michael Franks and the Rippingtons on April 22, and George Benson on April 27. CD101.9 is also presenting their Spring Affair concert at the Beacon Theatre on May 11 with artists: Spyro Gyra, Oleta Adams, Richard Elliot, Rick Braun, and Jonathan Butler.

Federico Aubele’s new album has been pushed back for release for this fall due to some manufacturing errors. The new album is entitled Panamericana . You will have a chance to catch Federico opening for Bebel Gilberto this May though, dates will be announced next week. Expect to hear some new singles this summer.

Tuesday, April 10, 2007

NEW CD FROM ANDRE WARD

Andre Ward will release his third album Crystal City on April 24, 2007. Now with his third release the growth and innovative approach showcased on his previous projects continues to be consistent. A product of Orpheus Music/Hush Productions, Crystal City is a ground-breaking masterpiece executive produced by Beau and Charli Huggins. “From Alex Bugnon to newcomer saxophonist Rob White, Orpheus Music / Hush Production’s name has been synonymous with quality music,” stated Beau Huggins, President of Orpheus Music. “Young, accomplished and edgy, Andre continues to build on the foundation laid by his Orpheus/ Hush predecessors, Najee and Kenny G.” Crystal City invites music lovers to a magical place that shines with unusual brilliance, where Andre Ward is the tour guide. The musical journey begins with the funk laced, They Keep Calling Me, followed by the dreamy Wishful Thinking, which is accented by the vocal prowess of Barbara Fowler, whose voice is reminiscent of a young Anita Baker. The Yasha produced, Andre’s Theme, is a smooth jazzy tune reflective of Ward’s laid back style, while, I Don’t Want To Be In Love, produced by Marc Nelson (AZ Yet) and Chicago Here We Go, offers a soulful excursion for R&B music fans. But one of the most meaningful and personal songs on the album is New Orleans Lights penned as a tribute to the great city and the birthplace of jazz, where Andre shows off his technical abilities with heartfelt emotion.Andre Ward continues to evolve into the type of musician that truly lives for the love of making music that respects the past, yet steps into the future. And with his newest release, he continues to do just that. Crystal City is the perfect escape that will keep Smooth Jazz on the map

SEABREEZE JAZZ FESTIVAL TO PRESENT BONEY JAMES, MINDI ABAIR, RICK BRAUN & OTHERS...

The Seabreeze Jazz Festival has just announced a star-studded lineup for this year's event, taking place at Florida's Emerald Coast from April 12th through the 15th. 2007's shows have been expanded to three days at the Gulf Place Outdoor Amphitheater, featuring such fan favorites as Boney James, Richard Elliot, Rick Braun, Peter White, Jonathan Butler, Gerald Albright, Kirk Whalum, Jeff Golub, Eric Darius, Mindi Abair, Tim Bowman, Nick Colionne, Nils, Brian Simpson, Jeff Kashiwa, Steve Oliver and others.

The festival kicks off on Thursday, April 12th with a Smooth Jazz Dinner Cruise with former Rippington's saxophonist and solo artist Jeff Kashiwa. On Friday, April 13th, Nils, Brian Simpson and special guest Jeff Kashiwa perform at the amphitheater. Saturday, April 14th is an all-day event, featuring The Groove Boutique with Rafe Gomez, Jones & Company, Down To The Bone, and Guitars & Saxes featuring Nick Colionne, Gerald Albright, Kirk Whalum, Tim Bowman and Jeff Golub. Headlining that night will be saxophonist Boney James. Seabreeze JazzFest winds up on Sunday, April 15th with another all-day event, featuring Smooth Jazz Gospel with Michael J. Thomas, The Groove Boutique with Rafe Gomez, Urban Jazz Coalition, Mindi Abair and Steve Oliver. Headlining is Jazz Attack featuring Eric Darius, Peter White, Rick Braun, Richard Elliot & Jonathan Butler.

Tickets are $130 per person for a weekend pass, $50 for a single day Friday, $80 for either Saturday or Sunday and $130 for the Smooth Jazz Dinner cruise. Children 12 and under are free. To order tickets, call 800-595-4949 or go to www.seabreezejazzfestival.com

STEPHEN MARLEY TOUR DATES ANNOUNCED

Stephen Marley is touring in support of his solo debut Mind Control, will perform the following concerts: April 11 at Big Easy in Spokane WA, April 12 at Roseland Theatre in Portland OR, April 13 at Showbox in Seattle WA, April 14 at Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver BC, April 15 at Whistler Village in Whistler BC, April 17 at Main One Center for the Arts in Medford OR, April 18 at Mateel Community Center in Redway CA, April 20 at Cal Poly Recreation Center in San Luis Obispo CA, April 20 at The Catalyst in Santa Cruz CA, April 22 at The Fillmore in San Francisco CA, April 24 at Ventura Theatre in Ventura CA, April 25 at House of Blues in San Diego CA, April 26 at House of Blues in Los Angeles CA, April 27 at Coachella in Indio CA, April 28 at House of Blues in in Las Vegas NV, April 29 at Hopi Veterans Memorial Center in Kykotsmovi Village AZ, April 30 at Sunshine Theatre in Albuquerque NM, May 2 at Ridglea in Fort Worth TX, May 3 at Antone's in Austin TX, May 4 at Warehouse Live in Houston TX, May 5 at Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans LA, May 6 at House of Blues in New Orleans LA, May 8 at 9:30 Club in Washington DC, May 9 at Avalon in Boston MA, May 11 at Nokia Theatre in New York NY, May 12 at Theatre of Living Arts in Philadelphia PA, May 13 at Rams Head in Baltimore MD, May 15 at Phoenix Concert Theatre in Toronto ON, May 16 at Mr. Smalls Theatre in Pittsburgh PA, May 17 at NorVa in Norvolk VA, May 19 at Jannus Landing in St. Petersburg FL, and May 20 at House of Blues in Orlando FL.

ST. LUCIA JAZZ FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES STAR-STUDDED LINEUP

The 16th annual St. Lucia Jazz Festival promises to be a star-studded event, featuring such smooth jazz luminaries as Gerald Albright, George Benson, Al Jarreau, John Legend and more. The event kicks off May 4th and continues through May 13th and will take place at Pigeon Island's main stage and throughout local villages. Brazilian artist Tania Maria opens the main stage performances on May 10th with Grammy-winning John Legend following on May 11th. The roster on May 12th will be a mixed bag of musical sensations, including George Benson, Al Jarreau, Will Downing, Gerald Albright, Norman Brown, Boo Hinkson and Friends, and others. Performances by jazz superstars Natalie Cole and Isaac Hayes will close the festival on May 13th. For more info, visit stluciajazz.org

LARRY CORYELL RELEASES DOUBLE ALBUM 'RESTOSPECTIVE'

Legendary smooth jazz guitarist Larry Coryell will release a double-disc live set, Larry Coryell - A Retrospective, on May 15th. Recorded at The Avalon in Hollywood, California, the album features his famed fretwork throughout, joined by Bernard Pretty Purdie on drums. Also appearing as special guests on the six-string are Maroon 5's James Valentine and Los Lobos' David Hidalgo, who pay homage to the guitar great. The package includes two discs, featuring 14 live songs, interviews and behind-the-scenes rehearsal footage. For more information about Larry, visit his website at:  www.larrycoryell.net

ROBIN THICKE, JAZZ ATTACK, THE WAILERS & OTHERS TO TOPLINE SUNFEST 2007

The line-up for SunFest 2007 in West Palm Beach, Florida will include such diverse artists as Robin Thicke, The Wailers, Jazz Attack and Ludacris, among many others. The event, billed as Florida's largest music, art, and waterfront festival, will take place from May 3rd to May 6th along the Flagler Drive waterfront in West Palm Beach. Although additional acts will be announced as confirmed, the SunFest 2007 line-up is as follows:

May 3rd
Ludacris - WaMu Stage
George Thorogood - The Real Yellow Pages Stage

May 4th
Rihanna - WaMu Stage
Sean Paul - WaMu Stage
Jonny Lang - The Real Yellow Pages Stage
Daughtry - Tire Kingdom Stage

May 5th
Todd Rundgren - WaMu Stage
Stephen Stills - WaMu Stage
The All-American Rejects - WaMu Stage
Delbert McClinton - The Real Yellow Pages Stage
Ne Yo - Tire Kingdom Stage
Jazz Attack featuring Rick Braun, Jonathan Butler, Richard Elliot and Peter White - The Real Yellow Pages Stage
The Wailers - WaMu Stage
Fonseca - Tire Kingdom Stage
Huey Lewis & The News - The Real Yellow Pages Stage
Robin Thicke - Tire Kingdom Stage
Big & Rich w/Cowboy Troy - WaMu Stage

MICHAEL BUBLE'S 'CALL ME IRRESPONSIBLE' DUE FOR RELEASE MAY 1, 2007

The one and only Michael Bublé's eagerly awaited new CD CALL ME IRRESPONSIBLE will be released on May 1st, which was confirmed by his record label, Reprise Records. The first single from the new album, the Bublé penned Everything, has just been released and will be performed by the artist on "The Today Show" on the day of the release. Bublé is also scheduled to make a special appearance on "American Idol" on April 25th. The Vancouver native, whose collective worldwide record sales are over 11 million units, is also scheduled to begin a global concert tour in Reno, Nevada, on July 13th with stops including Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Los Angeles and Seattle.

CALL ME IRRESPONSIBLE highlights include Bublé's energy infused interpretations on standards from a variety of eras including songs by such greats as Leonard Cohen, Eric Clapton, Cy Coleman, Gamble and Huff, Harold Arlen, Johnny Mercer and others.

Produced by David Foster and Humberto Gattica, IRRESPONSIBLE includes a touching Bublé written ballad called Lost, along with a rocking duet with Boys II Men of the old Mel Tormé hit Coming Home Baby. Brazilian singer Ivan Linns also makes a guest appearance on the Clapton written Wonderful Tonight. The pairing of these two voices from two totally different generations magnifies Bublé's summation of this record -- love is universal and ageless.

As for the album, Bublé says, "It's all about love. We're either in love, dreaming about love, recovering from it, wishing for it or reflecting on it. That's what this record is about."

The Grammy-nominated, four-time Juno Award winning Bublé arrived on the music scene with a groundbreaking 2003 self-titled debut CD and embarked on what would virtually become a perpetual concert tour circling the globe continuously for the last five years. His multi platinum follow-up, It's Time, sold over 5.5 million copies and has remained on the Billboard Traditional Jazz charts for a staggering two years and in the No. 1 slot for over 80 weeks, holding the all time record. His reputation as one of the world's consummate 'entertainers' is by now legendary. "Bublé's stage presence is magnetic. He has charisma, energy and when he sings, words float out of his mouth; he swivels like Elvis with the flash of a tap dancing Fred Astaire. He has fun," raved the London Sunday Times Magazine.

JEAN-LUC PONTY TO RELEASE NEW STUDIO, 'THE ACATEMA EXPERIENCE' ON MAY 22nd, 2007

KOCH Records has announced the release of The Acatama Experience, the new album by legendary jazz-rock violinist Jean-Luc Ponty, on May 22nd, 2007. Jean-Luc Ponty is a pioneer and unquestioned jazz immortal. He is widely regarded as an innovator who has applied a visionary spin that has expanded the vocabulary of modern music in numerous directions, combining jazz, electronics, classical and world music into an eternally progressive blend.

Jean-Luc's career spans five decades, and he has appeared on over 70 recordings, including works by Frank Zappa, the Mahavishnu Orchestra, and countless others. In the 1970s Ponty spearheaded -- along with Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke and others -- America's growing jazz-rock movement, filling stadiums around the world and cracking the Top 40 with his albums Enigmatic Ocean and Cosmic Messenger. Since then, he has maintained a worldwide touring profile and a large, loyal fan base.

The Acatama Experience is Ponty's first studio album in several years; it's a joyful, romantic and colorful instrumental journey that moves from his home in Paris (a funk-fueled reading of Bud Powell's classic Parisian Thoroughfare), to the mountain deserts of South America (the atmospheric, electronic title piece), with stops in Ireland (Celtic Steps) and the mysterious streets of Bombay, India. Musically, the album flows between electronic funk, virtuoso jazz-rock, Latin percussion, impressionistic soundscapes and lyrical balladry. Tying it all together is Jean-Luc's stunning virtuosity, particularly compelling on the solo turn, Desert Crossing.

The Acatama Experience is performed by Ponty's touring group, with two very special guests on guitar: jazz master Philip Catherine and fusion immortal Allan Holdsworth. It's an album that redefines and repositions Jean-Luc Ponty at the very center of the contemporary jazz and progressive music experience

THE RETURN OF SLY STONE


Franco Presents Sly & The Family Stone on 07/07/07 - yes folks believe it or not! Sly is back, live in concert for his first major appearance in over 2 decades!!! Franco Presents Sly & The Family Stone, 07/07/07 at "Back In The Day" Summerfest 2007. This event is being sponsored by a non-profit organization. The event is also featuring Average White Band and the Latin Rock Legends Supergroup, The Latin Sensations, featuring: Jorge Santana & The original voices with both current and former members of Malo, El Chicano, Tierra & Sapo featuring Richard Bean, vocalist of the hit song Suavecito.

For more concert information and tickets go online to www.francopresents.com.
or call toll free ticket line 1-800-620-6300
Event: "Back In The Day" Summerfest, July 7th, 2007
Sponsored by: Masada Music Ministries (non-profit)
Celebration: 4th of July & the 150th anniversary of San Jose
Time: All day - 10 am to 8 pm
Location: Arena Green Park, San Jose, CA. (downtown next to HP Pavilion)
Tickets: General Admission is $15
VIP's: Limited VIP sponsor seating available
Expected attendance: 20,000 plus

Here is what the press saying...

Las Vegas Sun - April 02, 2007 …gives rave reviews regarding Stone's recent appearance in Las Vegas 03/31/07. His voice was strong and he seemed charged up at the experience, even moving to the edge of the stage to greet his amped-up fans. It was Stone's first Vegas show since a 1972 appearance at the Las Vegas Convention Center and who had since become a virtual recluse for two decades.

Christopher Pratt of Elements Entertainment Los Angeles says about Sly's show 03/31/07… The show was incredible, they did all the hits and the crowd went nuts. It was an amazing show and sure to launch your new tour in style. Sly was the consummate professional and we had a great experience working with him. Shy Sly Stone picks S.J. for show.

Reclusive singer books one U.S. concert so far: Arena Green in July…
By Shay Quillen Mercury News Article Launched: 04/06/2007
Ready for some "Hot Fun in the Summertime"? After two decades out of the spotlight, reclusive Rock and Roll Hall of Famer Sly Stone has decided to return to the concert stage. Sly and the Family Stone will headline the "Back in the Day" event July 7 in the Arena Green park near HP Pavilion. The concert will also feature the Average White Band and the Latin Sensations, a Latin rock supergroup.

EURweb-Sly Stone appears at George Wallace gig: Reclusive legend performs several numbers with Family Stone in Vegas. April 4, 2007. Sly joined The Family band for several songs, including 'Thank You', 'I Wanna Take You Higher' *& 'Dance to the Music'. Stone's half-hour appearance lasted throught the end of the concert. Afterward, he even signed autographs and walked among the crowd.

Thursday, April 05, 2007

ETTA JAMES TOUR DATES

Etta James will perform the following concerts: May 27 at Aptos Village Park in Aptos CA, June 17 at Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles CA, July 21 at House of Blues in Lake Buena Vista FL, July 24 at Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood FL, July 26 at Chastain Park Amphitheatre in Atlanta GA, July 28 at House of Blues in Chicago IL, July 29 at DTE Energy Music Theatre in Clarkston MI, August 1 at Cape Cod Melody Tent in Hyannis MA, August 3 at PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel NJ, August 4 at Trump Taj Mahal Casino in Atlantic City NJ, August 7 at Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York NY, August 11 at Cavalier Telephone Pavilion Pier Six in Baltimore MD, August 12 at Fort Adams State Park in Newport RI, August 26 at Nokia Theatre in Grand Prairie TX, August 30 at Minnesota State Fair in Saint Paul MN, September 1 at Red Rocks in Morrison CO, September 7 at Soboba Casino in San Jacinto CA, September 8 at Sleep Train Pavilion in Concord CA, September 9 at Ironstone Vineyards in Murphys CA, September 15 at Little Creek Casino in Shelton WA, September 16 at Tulalip Amphitheatre in Tulalip WA, October 12-14 at The Orleans in Las Vegas NV. All dates July 24 through September 9 (except July 28 and August 1) are with the B.B. King Blues Festival.

Thursday, March 29, 2007

AL GREEN TOUR DATES

Al Green will perform the following concerts: April 29 at Jazz Fest in Tobago, May 19 at Doheny Blues Festival in Dana Point CA, June 24 at Saratoga Performing Arts Center in Saratoga Springs NY, June 28 at Royal Albert Hall in London UK, June 29 at Manchester Evening News Arena in Manchester UK, July 1 at Malahide Castle in Dublin Ireland, July 2 at Edinburgh Playhouse in Edinburgh UK, July 4 at National Indoor Arena in Birmingham UK, July 6 at Carling Apollo Hammersmith in London UK, July 9 at Grand Rex in Paris France, July 11 at Via Jazz in Madrid Spain, July 13 at North Sea Jazz Festival in Rotterdam Netherlands, July 21 at Memphis Botanic Garden in Memphis TN, July 24 at Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood FL, July 26 at Chastain Park Amphitheatre in Atlanta GA, July 29 at DTE Energy Music Theatre in Clarkston MI, August 3 at PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel NJ, August 4 at Trump Taj Mahal Casino in Atlantic City NJ, August 7 at Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York NY, August 11 at Cavalier Telephone Pavilion Pier Six in Baltimore MD, August 12 at Fort Adams State Park in Newport RI, August 26 at Nokia Theatre in Grand Prairie TX, August 30 at Minnesota State Fair in Saint Paul MN, September 1 at Red Rocks in Morrison CO, September 7 at Soboba Casino in San Jacinto CA, September 8 at Sleep Train Pavilion in Concord CA, September 9 at Ironstone Vineyards in Murphys CA, and October 19-20 at House of Blues in Chicago IL. All dates July 24 through September 9 are with the B.B. King Blues Festival.

AMY WINEHOUSE TOUR DATES

Amy Winehouse will perform the following concerts: April 26 at Popscene in San Francisco CA, April 27 at Coachella in Indio CA, April 30 at Fox Theatre in Boulder CO, May 2 at Varsity Theater in Minneapolis MN, May 3 at Schubas in Chicago IL, May 6 at Theatre of Living Arts in Philadelphia PA, May 7 at Paradise Rock Club in Boston MA, May 8-9 at Highline Ballrom in New York NY, May 12-13 at Mod Club in Toronto ON, May 27 at Pinkpop Festival in Landgraaf Netherlands, May 28-29 at Shepherd's Bush Empire in London UK, June 9 at Isle of Wight Festival in Isle of Wight UK, July 4 at Liverpool Summer Pops in Liverpool UK, July 7 at Oxegen Festival in Naas Ireland, July 8 at T in the Park in Kinross UK, and September 8 at V Festival in Toronto ON.

B.B. KING HITS THE ROAD

B.B. King, Al Green and Etta James will embark on a 14-city trek beginning July 24 at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Miami, and wrapping Sept. 9 at the Kautz Ironstone Vineyards Theatre in Murphys, Calif. Since January, 81-year-old King has been performing gigs on his 60th Anniversary Tour, and will continue touring through the year¹s end, which includes a string of Canadian shows in May. Supporting King on select dates are Joan Osborne, Robert Randolph and James Hunter.

B.B. King will perform the following concerts: March 21 at DeVos Hall in Grand Rapids MI, March 22 at Virginia Theatre in Champaign IL, March 24 at Whitney Hall in Louisville KY, March 26 at Norton Center in Danville KY, March 27 at Thomas Wolfe Auditorium in Asheville NC, March 30 at Juanita K. Hammons Hall in Springfield MO, March 31 at Ameristar Hotel & Casino in Kansas City MO, April 1 at Holland Performing Arts Center in Omaha NE, April 3 at ArtsBlock: Grand Theatre in Wausau WI, April 5-6 at House of Blues in Chicago IL, April 7 at Star Plaza Theatre in Merrillville IN, April 8 at Potawatomi Casino in Milwaukee WI, April 26 at Save on Foods Memorial Centre in Victoria BC, April 27 at Orpheum in Vancouver BC, April 28 at Prospera Place in Kelowna BC, May 1 at CN Centre in Prince George BC, May 3 at Northern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium in Edmonton AB, May 4 at Southern Alberta Jubilee Auditorium in Calgary AB, May 6 at Burton Cummings Theatre for the Performing Arts in Winnipeg MB, May 7 at Thunder Bay Community Auditorium in Thunder Bay ON, May 9 at Vegas Kewadin Casino in Sault Ste. Marie MI, May 11 at Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto ON, May 12 at Seneca Niagara Casino in Niagara Falls NY, May 13 at National Arts Centre in Ottawa ON, May 14 at Centre in the Square in Kitchener ON, May 16 at Grand Theatre in Quebec City QC, May 18 at St. Denis Theatre in Montreal QC, May 19 at Harbour Station in Saint John NB, May 20 at Augusta Civic Center in Augusta ME, June 12 at Saenger Theatre in Mobile AL, June 14-15 at L'auberge du Lac Hotel & Casino in Lake Charles LA, June 16 at Paragon Casino in Marksville LA, June 18 at Cowan Fine & Performing Arts Center in Tyler TX, June 19 at Lutcher Theatre in Orange TX, June 21-22 at Grand Opera House in Galveston TX, June 26 at Memorial Auditorium in Raleigh NC, July 1 at Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake IA, July 24 at Seminole Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood FL, July 26 at Chastain Park Amphitheatre in Atlanta GA, July 29 at DTE Energy Music Theatre in Clarkston MI, August 3 at PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel NJ, August 4 at Trump Taj Mahal Casino in Atlantic City NJ, August 7 at Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York NY, August 11 at Cavalier Telephone Pavilion Pier Six in Baltimore MD, August 12 at Fort Adams State Park in Newport RI, August 26 at Nokia Theatre in Grand Prairie TX, August 28-29 at Ravinia in Highland Park IL, August 30 at Minnesota State Fair in Saint Paul MN, September 1 at Red Rocks in Morrison CO, September 5 at Hollywood Bowl in Los Angeles CA, September 7 at Soboba Casino in San Jacinto CA, September 8 at Sleep Train Pavilion in Concord CA, and September 9 at Ironstone Vineyards in Murphys CA. All dates July 24 through September 9 are with the B.B. King Blues Festival.

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