NEW RELEASES - ROBBIE WILLIAMS, CHAKA KHAN, MUSIC FROM AND FEATURED IN 12 YEARS A SLAVE

ROBBIE WILLIAMS - SWINGS BOTH WAYS

Following in the rhythmic footsteps of Robbie's most successful album to date, 2001's Swing When You're Winning, this new release features a mix of classic covers and new material as well as duets with some of pop's biggest names, including Lily Allen, Michael Bublé, Kelly Clarkson, Olly Murs and Rufus Wainwright.The album features cover versions of well known songs, as well as six new tracks written by Williams and Guy Chambers, who also produced the album. Williams stated "First of all, I wanted to do a swing album because I wanted to do a swing album. I always knew I'd do another and I think now is the perfect time to do it. I'm enjoying showbiz and I'm enjoying my life and my understanding of where I am now is that there needs to be an event every time I bring out a record. The album this time is a definite ode and a loving glance towards a period on the planet that I was never invited to 'coz I wasn't there… I wanted to be, which I feel still very strongly linked to." The album comes in two editions - standard and deluxe, which features three extra tracks and some very special bonus studio footage.

CHAKA KHAN - ORIGINAL ALBUM SERIES: CHAKA / NAUGHTY / WHAT CHA' GONNA DO FOR ME / CHAKA KHAN / I FEEL FOR YOU

Large-lunged R&B diva Chaka Khan’s first five solo albums for Warner Bros – 1978’s Chaka, 1980’s Naughty, the following year’s What Cha’ Gonna Do For Me, ’82’s Chaka Khan and ’84’s I Feel For You – are now available in a single package as part of Rhino’s Original Album Series. The downside for collectors is that none of the albums have been remastered and there’s a conspicuous absence of sleenenotes and bonus tracks. On the plus side, however, all the albums are presented in replica mini-LP sleeves and, with an enticing mid-price sales tag, they represent a good opportunity for Chaka Khan novices to pick up the singer’s best work in one fell swoop. Though I Feel For You – featuring Chaka’s combustible reworking of the Prince-penned title track – is the best known LP of the bunch, her first three albums (all helmed by the late, great Arif Mardin) undoubtedly contain her best work. Her debut includes the anthemic I’m Every Woman, but the killer cuts are Some Love, a gargantuan slab of churning symphonic funk, and Sleep On It. Naughty – perhaps Khan’s most overlooked album – is also packed with memorable cuts that showcase her incredible vocal range, including the disco-inflected Clouds and the soaring mid-tempo groover, Move Me No Mountain. ~ Charles Waring

MUSIC FROM AND FEATURED IN 12 YEARS A SLAVE (VARIOUS ARTISTS)

12 Years a Slave is a 2013 British-American historical drama film based on the 1853 autobiography Twelve Years a Slave by Solomon Northup, a free black man who was kidnapped in Washington, D.C. after being lured from Saratoga Springs, New York in 1841 and sold into slavery. He worked on plantations in the state of Louisiana for 12 years before his rescue and release. The critically acclaimed film was directed by Steve McQueen and written by John Ridley, and it received the People's Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival. The film opens here in the US in limited release October 18th. Music From and Featured in 12 Years A Slave is a compilation of songs of freedom inspired by the story of Solomon Northup. The album includes new music from John Legend, Alicia Keys, Alabama Shakes, Gary Clark, Jr., Chris Cornell w/ Joy Williams of The Civil Wars, and more; plus selections of the original movie score by Hans Zimmer.

TIM WARFIELD - INSPIRE ME! FEATURES HERB HARRIS, ANTOINE DRYE, KEVIN HAYS, GREG WILLIAMS, RODNEY GREEN

A smoker from reedman Tim Warfield – working here on tenor sax with a tight group that comes across with plenty of fire! The entire lineup here is great – and they include Antoine Drye on trumpet, Kevin Hays on piano, Greg Williams on bass, Rodney Green on drums, and Herb Harris on vocals and tenor sax – all of whom are top notch here. Warfield is wonderfully sharp – blowing a batch of late night ballad grooves with a soulful vibe throughout.

Warfield is a master saxophonist with over 20 years of experience on the jazz scene.  His 1995 debut recording "A Cool Blue" was selected as a top ten recording in a New York Times critics poll, as was his 1998 recording "Gentle Warrior" (featuring Cyrus Chestnut, Taurus Mateen, Clarence Penn, Terrell Stafford, and Nichlolas Payton), proclaiming him "possibly the most powerful saxophonist of his generation". In 1999, he was awarded "Talent Deserving Wider Recognition" in Downbeat Magazine's 49th Annual Critics poll. In 2000, alongside crooner Loston Harris, Warfield performed at the MTV GQ Men of the Year Awards in New York City."

In 2012, Warfield released "Tim Warfield's Jazzy Christmas." Edward Blanco, at All About Jazz says, "Performing a selection of familiar songs with a heavy contemporary flavor, the music is so straight-ahead in nature that such seasonal tunes like "Let It Snow," "Joy To The World," and "Silent Night," are almost unrecognizable as Christmas music and could easily be part of any playlist throughout the year."

The album is produced, written, and arranged by Herb Harris who spent a short period with the Wynton Marsalis Septet with whom he toured the states, Europe, and South America; he’s appeared on the soundtrack to "Tune In Tommorow" and he was also featured in the group of saxists dubbed the "Tough Young Tenors" on the album "Alone Together” which reached #5 on Billboard's Jazz Chart. 

Full tracklisting: Monkee See Monkee Doo;  Robert Earl; Ny Daze Ny Knights; When I'm Alone With You; Inspire Me!; What If's; A Tinge of the Melancholy; and. Monkee See Monkee Doo(Alternate Take).

NEW RELEASES - CHARLES XAVIER, MARVIN TRAVIS, REGGIE WASHINGTON

CHARLES XAVIER - PEFECT MOLD

Perfect Mold, the fourth release from Happy Note Records, features Charles Xavier, a multi-instrumentalist and composer who plays genre-fusing original compositions and puts his unique spin on rock and pop classics including Hey Jude, Blowing in the Wind, The Beat Goes On, Fire and Rain, Eleanor Rigby, and Leaving on a Jet Plane. Xavier, who arranged and performed all the parts on vibraphone, piano, and percussive batterie, designs his percussive arrangements to induce a “soothing but intriguing vibe, a kind of meditative soundscape.” Xavier’s music appeals to listeners with a wide range. Longtime DownBeat columnist Frank-John Hadley has reported, “Playing vibes, keyboards, and drums, joined by guitarist Russell Golub and Tina Murray on vocals, Xavier fills his wassail bowl with electronic sounds, samplings, Gary Burton-like abstractions, elements of world-music, and quirky allusions to maybe Gong’s vibes player Pierre Moerlen. A dozen carols and holiday favorites drift together as one trippy soundscape. Recommended.” DownBeat has elsewhere called Charles Xavier a “Rara Avis,” which is Latin for “rare bird.”

MARVIN TRAVIS - INTRODUCING MARVIN TRAVIS

Marvin's first encounter with the guitar was at the tender age of four years old. Being the son of a Pastor Bishop Marvin Travis Sr, and seeing his father play the guitar inspired Marvin to want to learn more. Marvin listened to the radio and cassette tapes his Father had around their home, picked his guitar up and attempted to play all of the cords he had heard, over and over again until he could master those cords. Seeing Marvin's talent grow, his dad bought him a guitar and the rest is history. As a child Marvin played for visiting artist such as Dorinda Clark Cole, Jay Moss, Vanessa Bell Armstrong, and many others. Marvin knew at an early age that God had given him a gift to play the guitar and vowed to give that gift back to God and others.Marvin has been known for playing cords that only keyboard players could play. Having played in his dad's church there was only a lead guitar and the drums for a season. Marvin learned to play all the parts both rhythm and cords. During his formative years in High School he was called nick names such as: "Thunder Thumbs" and "Marvelous Marv". After over 40 years of playing, Marvin's ability to play with such precision and skill has opened many doors for him within the music industry. Marvin is well known for his ability to "flow" with his guitar. Marvin has played on many projects with artist such as commission's own Marcus Cole and Mitchell Jones, world renown Motown legend Kim Weston along with the legendary Jazz composer and pianist Teddy Harris Jr, Tim Bowman, Charles Laster II, Ernest J Lee, The Powell Brothers, La June Travis, and has also graced the stage with Bishop Paul Morton, Bishop William Murphy, Marvin D Travis III aka Bam Travis. Marvin has also played alongside the innumerable bass player and vocalist Mr. Fred Hammond as they shared the same church home "Great Faith Ministries" for a season. There are host of other artist to namely to mention.His new debut CD entitled Introducing Marvin is a project that has been long awaited for by his audience and peers. With his smooth jazzy style and skillfully played precise cords, it is Marvin's prayer that this CD takes you into a place of peace and serenity. Enjoying every cord, this compilation of music is sure to leave you wanting more.  

REGGIE WASHINGTON - FREEDOM

Reggie is a bassist of rare sobriety and efficacity. His savant bass lines are legible andthey always serve the music. He has a certain form of exigence and great musical taste.His list of collaborations is infinite in addition to being a participant in the revolution of Modern Jazz during the 90's. In 2005, he stepped out as a leader for the first time in his career with "A Lot of Love, LIVE !", on the Jammin'colorS label. The CD has received stellar reviews from journalists and colleagues worldwide in the music business. It is being played on U.S.A. and European radio to touch a wider audience. "My music represents the cutting edge of jazz today. It's a healthy musical mix paying hommage to our forefathers and exploring our craft by journeying down new roads to help pave the way for the future." says Reggie. For him, the music must evolve and he feels he's among the select group of musicians capable and dedicated to keeping MUSIC alive and strong. Reggie has toured with his bands through Europe and the U.S. A to very receptive andappreciative audiences. Bass Player magazine presented Reggie in its August 2007 issue entitled "The Eternal Internal" by journalist Bill Milkowski. In 2008, Reggie was among the winners of the Rising Stars electric bassist category in DownBeat magazine's International Critics Poll. He was also featured in the April 2008 issue ofJazz Times magazine in an article entitled "Overdue Ovation; Groove Instincts". He hasalso appeared in Jazz Magazine, Jazzman, De Bassist, Jazz Hot, Le Soir. Aside from holding down the groove for Steve Coleman's Five Elements, Reggie has alsoplayed for such notable groups as Roy Hargrove's RH Factor, Branford Marsalis's Buckshot LeFonque and Oliver Lake Steel Quartet. His extensive list of credits includes work with African drum master Babatunde Olatunje, calypso star Mighty Sparrow, jazz singer Cassandra Wilson, R&B singer D'Angelo, guitarist Jean-Paul Bourelly, pianist Uri Caine,trumpeter Lester Bowie, clarinetist Don Byron, alto saxophonist Arthur Blythe,the World Saxophone Quartet, Mike Mainieri's Steps Ahead, saxophonist Jacques Schwarz-Bart, bassist-vocalist Meshell Ndegeocello and cabaret diva Ute Lemper.

 

10 CLASSIC RANDY CRAWFORD ALBUMS REISSUED

RANDY CRAWFORD - EVERYTHING MUST CHANGE / MISS RANDY CRAWFORD

Two early gems from Randy Crawford – back to back in a single set! Everything Must Change is the sublime first album from Randy Crawford – a set that's got a very strong jazzy vibe throughout – and which really shows the great place from which Randy started! There's a careful and classy mix of jazz, soul, and modern R&B throughout – never overdone, but often filled out with just the right sort of larger charts to match that incredible range of Crawford – that singing style that few other artists could match! Arrangements are by William Eaton and Larry Carlton – both with lots of jazzy undercurrents – and titles include a killer live version of "Everything Must Change", plus the tracks "I Had To See You One More Time", "I've Never Been To Me", "I Let You Walk Away", "Something So Right", and "Don't Let Me Down". Miss Randy Crawford is one of the hippest, tightest albums ever from Randy Crawford – a set that's got a great blend of jazz, funk, and soul – all with the kind of poise and polish she brought to her famous work with The Crusaders! Crawford's wonderful vocals are wrapped up perfectly in some cool combo backings which are then augmented by larger strings – a blend that's got a great sort of richness right from the start, but also that special late 70s LA style that never has things getting too soppy or commercial, even when tight. Randy's the perfect sort of singer to make a record like this come out right – and titles include "I Can't Get You Off My Mind", "Over My Head", "Single Woman Married Man", "Half Steppin", "This Man", and "At Last". ~ Dusty Groove

RANDY CRAWFORD - RAW SILK / NOW WE MAY BEGIN

Two early classics from the great Randy Crawford! Raw Silk is a really wonderful little album from Randy – a lot jazzier than previous work, and done in a style that has Randy's vocals backed by small electric combo work on most cuts! Players on the set are a great batch of top-shelf fusion players – and include Don Grusin, William D Smith, Leon Pendarvis, and John Tropea – all playing in different combos from track to track, but keeping things nicely together to match Randy's increasingly soulful vocals. The sound's a real hint at the greatness Randy would hit with The Crusaders – but in a mellower mode – and titles include "Endlessly", "Declaration Of Love", "Blue Mood", "Love Is Like A Newborn Child", "Nobody", and "Just To Keep You Satisfied". Now We May Begin is a great album cut by Randy during the height of her career! She'd just broken big with her vocals on "Street Life" by the Crusaders – and although that track's not on here, the Crusaders team of Wilton Felder, Stix Hooper, and Joe Sample produced the album, and have given it a very similar sound to that track. There's a few weak moments where Randy's singing in a mellower style that lets her voice wobble a bit too much – but the stronger tracks have a good jazz funk groove, and these include "Blue Flame", "Last Night At Danceland", and "My Heart Is Not As Young As It Used To Be". ~ Dusty Groove

RANDY CRAWFORD - SECRET COMBINATION / WINDSONG

A Randy Crawford double-header – with bonus tracks too! First up is the album Secret Combination, rich, proud work from Randy Crawford – sung with the mature mix of jazz and soul that made her one of the more sophisticated mainstream singers of her generation! The album's heavy on mellower cuts, but it's never too sleepy – thanks to a slow-burning sensibility that Randy uses to keep things cooking on the low burners – a style that brings out some good vocal force even when the backings are somewhat gentle. Production's by Tommy LiPuma, and somewhat slick, and tracks include "You Might Need Somebody", "That's How Heartaches Are Made", "Two Lives", "You Bring The Sun Out", "Rio De Janeiro Blue", "Time For Love", "Trade Winds", and "When I Lose My Way". Windsong features Randy singing with relatively full arrangements – smooth, but never too slick – and done in a way that really lets her vocals take command of the entire set. Titles include "Look Who's Lonely Now", "Letter Full Of Tears", "He Reminds Me", "Windsong", "One Hello", "Don't Come Knockin", "We Had A Love So Strong", and "This Night Won't Last Forever". Bonus tracks include a live version of "Street Life" and a duet with Al Jarreau on "Your Precious Love". ~ Dusty Groove

RANDY CRAWFORD - NIGHTLINE / ABSTRACT EMOTIONS

Two 80s gems from Randy Crawford – with bonus tracks too! Niteline is a great crossover moment for Randy Crawford – a set that's filled with catchy little numbers that really helped to break her big to a larger audience, yet still with all the jazzy class of her earlier records too! Linda and Cecil Womack contributed a number of excellent songs to the set, and these balance out the soul component nicely – rounding things out alongside a few of the more crossover tracks. Backings are polished, but still never too clunky or commercial – leaving lots of room for those classic Crawford vocals – and titles include "Nightline", "Living On The Outside", "The Bottom Line", "In Real Life", "Happy Feet", "Lift Me Up", and "Ain't No Foolin". Also features bonus cuts – "Nightline (special version)" and "Nightline (inst dub)". On Abstract Emotions, Randy Crawford's working with arrangements and production from Reggie Lucas – all very much in that sweet 80s style he was bringing to work with other artists at the time! There's plenty of beats, guitars, and keyboards in the instrumentation – pushing an overall sound that's more electric than some of Randy's jazzier sides from the early days. But Ms Crawford's vocals come out strongly on top of it all – with a poised presence that's clearly the main focus of the set. Lucas plays guitar, and also wrote a few of the tracks – and titles include "Can't Stand The Pain", "Actual Emotional Love", "World Of Fools", "Betcha", "Desire", "Getting Away With Murder", and "Almaz". CD features bonus tracks – "Getting Away With Murder (ext)", "Desire (edit)", "Desire (Victor Flores rmx)", "Desire (Victor Flores ext)", and "Desire (acappella)".~ Dusty Groove

RANDY CRAWFORD - RICH AND POOR / THROUGH THE EYES OF LOVE

Randy Crawford at the cusp of the 90s – served up here on two very big albums from the CD generation! On Rich & Poor, Randy Crawford's really pushing her range nicely – still very much in the jazzy soul mode that brought her big notice right from the start, but also working towards some warmer moments that helped the record cross over nicely too! Randy's range is always amazing – able to inflect feeling into songs, even where you might not expect it – which keeps things interesting, even when some of the tracks are clearly going for the charts. Titles include "Every Kind Of People", "This Is The Love", "Separate Lives", "Love Is", "Cigarette In The Rain", "Wrap U Up", and "All It Takes Is Love". Also features a bonus track – "Wrap U Up (edit)". Through The Eyes Of Love is filled with sweet grooves from Randy Crawford, and is a set that does a really nice job of bringing back some of the jazzier elements from her roots – some warm Crusaders-like inflections that bring Crawford right back to her best sort of style! Instrumentation is nicely laidback at points – still smooth, but maybe a bit more relaxed than some of Randy's late 80s efforts – showing that return to classic elements that was coming into a lot of mainstream soul at the time. The approach works better here with Crawford than it does with most of her contemporaries – some of whom were caught out in the open without any studio tricks to help them out. Titles include "It's Raining", "Who's Crying Now", "When Love Is New", "Diamonte", "Just A Touch", "Like The Sun Out of Nowhere", and "Hold On Be Strong". ~ Dusty Groove

NEW RELEASES - REMIXED WITH LOVE BY JOEY NEGRO, M1, BRIAN JACKSON & THE NEW MIDNIGHT BAND, DIGGIN' P-VINE PLANET FUNK MIXED BY MURO

REMIXED WITH LOVE BY JOEY NEGRO (VARIOUS ARTISTS)

Upcoming remix album from Joey Negro featuring: Mass Production - Welcome To Our World (Joey Negro Funk In The Music Mix); Patrice Rushen - Haven't You Heard (Joey Negro Extended Disco Mix); Roxy Music - The Same Old Scene (Joey Negro Disco Scene Mix); TW Funkmasters - Love Money (Joey Negro Dubwise Revision); Karen Young - Hot Shot (Joey Negro Sure Shot Mix); Narada Michael Walden - Tonight (I'm Alright) (Joey Negro Spirit Of ‘79 Mix); Loleatta Holloway - Hit And Run (Joey Negro Dub Sensation); Kleeer - Tonight's The Night (Good Time) (Joey Negro Partytime Tonight Mix); Phreek Feat. Donna McGhee - May My Love Be With You (Joey Negro Tribute To Patrick Adams); Kleeer - I Love To Dance (Joey Negro Extended Disco Mix); Mass Production - Cosmic Lust (Joey Negro 7 Minutes Of Jazz Funk Mix); Ashford & Simpson - Over And Over (Joey Negro Find A Friend Mix); Roy Ayres - Get On Up Get On Down (Joey Negro Revibe); Narada Michael Walden - I Should’ve Loved Ya (Joey Negro Should've Dubbed Ya Mix); Matt Bianco - Half A Minute (Joey Negro Sunburnt Mix); Electric Empire – Always (Joey Negro Classic Mix); Princess Freesia – Freesia (Joey Negro Cookie Dough Mix); and Bobby Caldwell - Down For The Third Time (Joey Negro Down For The 4th Time Edit).

M1, BRIAN JACKSON & THE NEW MIDNIGHT BAND - EVOLUTIONARY MINDED FEATURING THE LEGACY OF GIL SCOTT-HERON

Brian Jackson re-ignites the righteous magic he forged back in the 70s with Gil Scott-Heron on a set of legendary albums that we'll treasure forever – but he does so here in a richly collaborative spirit that takes the message and the music even farther than ever! Jackson's keyboards and sense of composition really holds the whole thing together – but the sound also includes contributions from a whole host of others – including MC M1, vocalists Martin Luther and Gregory Porter, percussionists Bill Summers and Airto, speakers Bobby Seale and Abiodun Oyewole, drummer Stanton Moore, and guest MCs Chuck D and Dead Prez. Some tracks are remakes of older Gil Scott-Heron numbers, but most are new grooves that really offer up a 21st Century take on the combination of knowledge and rhythm that Brian and Gil forged back in the 70s. Titles include "Go Ahead On Bobby", "Winter In America", "Opponent", "Liberation Psychology", "All We Got", "Tradition", and "Song Of The Wind". ~ Dusty Groove

DIGGIN' P-VINE PLANET FUNK MIXED BY MURO (VARIOUS ARTISTS)

DJ Muro normally mixes it up with classic funk and soul – but this time around, he's turned his mighty talents to a host of contemporary tracks from the deep funk underground – work from labels like Timmion, Record Kicks, and other hip indies – woven together here in a totally great blend of heavy drums and raw funky instrumentation! The tracks are all great on their own – but Muro's work really shows us what the right sort of DJ can do with the material – lining up the best breaks and tightest riffs – to come up with a stunning tapestry of sound that's even better than the sum of its funky parts! Tracks include "Soul Investigators Theme" by Nicole Willis & The Soul Investigators, "Kool & The Gang" by Speedometer, "Truck Turner" by Undercover Express, "Purification (parts 1 & 2)" by Funkshone, "Pambiche" by New Cool Collective, "Midnight Feast Of Jazz" by Nick Pride & The Pimptones, "The Ghetto There's No Way Out" by The Soul Immigrants, "With Time" by Katzuma, "Got To Let My Feelings Show" by Bluey, "Stompin Joe" by Mountain Mocha Kilimanjaro, and "Break The Fast" by Eddie Roberts West Coast Sounds. 24 tracks – and 70 minutes of music! ~ Dusty Groove

DIANA KRALL, CARMEN LUNDY, HANK JONES, CAROL WEISMAN & OTHERS FEATURED ON FIFTEEN SHADES OF JAZZ

Justin Time Records is set to release Fifteen Shades of Blue Jazz on November 12, a collection of tunes that will put you in the mood for love! Featuring standards and originals in a variety of styles to satisfy every soul, with music that creates an air of romance from playful melodies to the sweetest sounds of jazz.

From swinging to slow and sultry, these 15 thematic gems are performed by some of the biggest names in jazz, included are Diana Krall's captivating performance of this "This Can't Be Love," Hank Jones' thoughtful "Because I Love You" and the timeless talents of Oliver Jones and Oscar Peterson. You'll be charmed by the subtle vocal stylings of Angela Galuppo from the jazz/pop band St. Ange and sway to Carol Welsman's "Hold Me."

  

Swing out to Fraser MacPherson's "You Took Advantage Of Me," sink into Ranee Lee's lovely rendition of "When A Woman Loves A Man," Brian Hughes' oh so smooth "Promise You," and the great Johnny O'Neal asks "Why Try To Change Me Now?"  Also featured are stellar performances by the world renowned Rob McConnell Tentet, celebrated vocalists Carmen Lundy and Susie Arioli and pianists extraordinaire Taurey Butler and Paul Bley. This is one tantalizing compilation that is sure to please.

Fifteen Shades Of Blue Jazz - Tracklist

"This Can't Be Love" / Diana Krall

"You Took Advantage Of Me" / Fraser MacPherson

"When A Woman Loves A Man" / Ranee Lee

"Lady Be Good "/ Oliver Jones feat. Josée Aidans

"Why Try And Change Me Now" / Johnny O'Neal

"Because I Love You" / Hank Jones

"Foolin' Myself" / Susie Arioli Band

"Alone Together" / Oscar Peterson

"Promise You" / Brian Hughes

"I Could Almost Love You" / St. Ange

"I'll Never Stop Loving You" / Rob McConnell Tentet

"Hold Me" / Carol Welsman

"The Lady Is A Tramp" / Taurey Butler

"This Is The End Of A Love Affair" / Carmen Lundy

"Pleasing You" / Paul Bley

 

TOM KENNEDY - JUST PLAY!

In the hands of a master, the bass can become as commanding an instrument in jazz as any horn or keyboard. Yet mastery is not just a case of conspicuous technical prowess. What makes a bassist truly special is a rare combination of imagination, taste and empathy -- all mated with monster chops. Tom Kennedy, an in-demand player who has recorded or performed with a vast range of artists including Michael Brecker in Steps Ahead, Tania Maria, Al DiMeola, Mike Stern, David Sanborn, Joe Sample, and Lee Ritenour, among others, is just such an inspiring bassist. 

An all-star event, Just Play features drummer Dave Weckl, with whom Kennedy has a long friendship and recording history; guitarists Mike Stern and Lee Ritenour; pianist Renee Rosnes, tenor saxophonists George Garzone and Steve Wirts, trombonist John Allred, and trumpeter Tim Hagans.

Recorded in one day at the legendary Nola Studios in NYC, with most of the tunes captured on the first take, Kennedy's fourth CD as a leader is a testament to the prowess and virtuosity of all the musicians involved. The album is also a testament to the transformative power that occurs when superior players find themselves in a shared comfort zone. Goading each other to new heights on classic material that can bring out the best in a committed improviser, the song standards "What is this Thing Called Love" and "The Night Has a Thousand Eyes," as well as such jazz standards as "Airegin" (complete with a wailing solo by Garzone), "Moanin'" (a slow and soulful rendition featuring Ritenour), "In a Sentimental Mood," Lee Morgan's "Ceora" and Cedar Walton's "Bolivia" inspire both snapping solos and deeply in-the-pocket support by the rhythm section. Throughout, Kennedy acts as both the rock-solid foundation on which the action rides and, when he steps into the spotlight, an imposing soloist.

As Thomas Burns, President of Capri Records states, "I first worked with Tom Kennedy on Ken Peplowski's In Search ofŠ recording. I was astounded with his playing and his ability to link up with all the other cats on the date. Most bassists I've heard emulate another's style.  But while Tom is deeply rooted in the tradition of legendary bassists like Ray Brown and Paul Chambers, he solos more like a horn player."

A personal project that tellingly exhibits the trust and creative interaction that Kennedy enjoys with his A-list musician friends, Just Play also speaks of the St. Louis native's deep respect for his brother Ray, with whom Kennedy has previously recorded. "I've dedicated this recording to my brother for so many reasons. He has always been such an inspiration to me, as a phenomenal pianist, composer and arranger, and even more, through his incredible spirit of giving. Music has always been such a sharing, nurturing experience between Ray and anyone he performed with. The beauty of what music really is remains in his soul to this day, despite his inability to perform after the onset of multiple sclerosis in 2008. Ray Kennedy is a true hero to me and everyone else having the good fortune to share in his music."

Just Play makes it obvious that Tom Kennedy shares with his brother - and each of the excellent players who enliven the project -- a similar understanding of the essence of music. Beauty and excitement are in plain sight -- just play the album and hear it for yourself.

JIMI HENDRIX AMERICAN MASTERS DOCUMENTARY - HERE MY TRAIN A COMIN' - TO PREMIERE NATIONWIDE ON PBS NOV 5, 2013

Hear My Train A Comin' unveils previously unseen performance footage and home movies taken by Hendrix and drummer Mitch Mitchell while sourcing an extensive archive of photographs, drawings, family letters and more to provide new insight into the musician's personality and genius.

A pioneering electric guitarist, Hendrix had only four years of mainstream exposure and recognition, but his influential music and riveting stage presence left an enduring legacy. Hear My Train A Comin' traces the guitarist’s remarkable journey from his hardscrabble beginnings in Seattle, through his stint as a US Army paratrooper, unknown sideman to R&B stars such as Little Richard, Joey Dee and the Isley Brothers and his discovery and ultimate international stardom.

Presented as part of a year-long celebration around his 70th birthday year--the guitarist was born November 27, 1942--the two-hour Hear My Train A Comin' tells the definitive story, illustrated by interviews with Hendrix and illuminated with commentary from family, well-known friends and musicians including Paul McCartney, Noel Redding, Mitch Mitchell, Billy Cox, Eddie Kramer, Steve Winwood, Vernon Reid, Billy Gibbons, Dweezil Zappa and Dave Mason as well as revealing glimpses into Jimi and his era from the three women closest to him Linda Keith (the girlfriend who introduced Jimi to future manager Chas Chandler), Faye Pridgeon (who befriended Hendrix in Harlem in the early 1960s) and Colette Mimram (one of the era's most influential fashion trendsetters who provided inspiration for Hendrix's signature look and created such memorable stage costumes as the beaded jacket Hendrix famously wore at Woodstock). 

The film details the meteoric rise of the Experience, the creation of his groundbreaking music, the building of Electric Lady Studios, his state-of-the-art recording facility in Greenwich Village, and concludes with poignant footage from his final performance in Germany in September 1970, just 12 days before his death at age 27.

Janie Hendrix, President and CEO of Experience Hendrix LLC and the sister of Jimi Hendrix commented, "Hear my Train a Comin' is an in-depth look at the life and legacy of Jimi with his own words as well as the words and memories of those that knew him well and were close to him. His impression on the world through his genius, music and talent continue to magically touch the lives of ensuing generations."

American Masters: Jimi Hendrix - Hear My Train A Comin' is directed by the award winning director Bob Smeaton (Festival Express; The Beatles Anthology; Jimi Hendrix: Voodoo Child; Hendrix 70: Live at Woodstock). Susan Lacy is series creator and executive producer of American Masters. The expanded DVD features an array of special features highlighted by never before released film footage featuring performances filmed at Miami Pop, the July 1970 New York Pop Festival and the September 6, 1970 Love & Peace Festival at the Isle Of Fehmarn in Germany—the final performance by the Jimi Hendrix Experience. The high definition DVD features new stereo and 5.1 surround mixing by Hendrix's engineer Eddie Kramer. The documentary is a production of Fuse Films and THIRTEEN's American Masters in association with WNET.

THE JIMI HENDRIX EXPERIENCE - MIAMI POP FESTIVAL

Available on November 5 is Jimi Hendrix Experience: Miami Pop Festival,the first-ever release of one of the guitar virtuoso's most sought-after performances, as originally recorded on site by Hendrix's long term sound engineer, Eddie Kramer. Never available in any form, Miami Pop Festival is being released as a single CD and a limited edition numbered double 12" audiophile vinyl set (all analog cut by Bernie Grundman, pressed at QRP on 200 gram vinyl).
Jimi Hendrix Experience: Miami Pop Festival introduces the first recorded stage performances of "Hear My Train A Comin'" and "Tax Free" while showcasing definitive live takes on such classics as "Fire," "Hey Joe," "I Don't Live Today" and "Purple Haze." The package includes never before published photos taken at the festival and an essay by award-winning music journalist and Grammy Museum Executive Director Bob Santelli.

The first ever major rock festival staged on the East Coast, the May 1968 Miami Pop Festival was the first event promoted by Michael Lang—who would organize Woodstock, the biggest pop culture event of the decade, fifteen months later—and Ric O'Barry, who had been the dolphin trainer for the popular television program Flipper. Lang and O'Barry had been inspired by the June 1967 Monterey Pop Festival, the groundbreaking gathering where Jimi Hendrix, making his US debut, famously set fire to his guitar at the conclusion of his performance. Lang staged the festival at Gulfstream Park in Hallandale, Florida, securing the Jimi Hendrix Experience as the headline act for the two-day festival.

Jimi Hendrix Experience - Miami Pop Festival
1. Introduction
2. Hey Joe
3. Foxey Lady
4. Tax Free
5. Fire
6. Hear My Train A Comin'
7. I Don't Live Today
8. Red House
9. Purple Haze
BONUS PERFORMANCES
10. Fire (Evening Show)
11. Foxey Lady (Evening Show)

Miami Pop Festival, May 18, 1968 / Gulfstream Park, Hallandale, Florida

THE GENE DUDLEY GROUP - THE HILO BAY HALFWAY

The Gene Dudley Group represents an outpouring of deep soul and funk music from obscenely talented 27 year-old multi-instrumentalist residing in North London; Gene Dudley.

The debut album, Saturday Shifting, released earlier this year, caused quite a stir and quickly gained this deeply soulful producer a new army of fans, with Kenny Dope, Huey Morganand Daz-I-Kue all singing its praises!

One of the most popular tracks from the album is the up-tempo, tropical flavoured cut The Hilo Bay Halfway - available here on vinyl for the first time. It comes complete with an exclusive'Disco Dub Remix' from Gene himself, who uses hand claps, synths and some seriously squelchy bass to take this club monster in another, equally foot friendly direction; and one from label mate Scrimshire, whose afro flavoured guitar licks and quirky keyboard sounds guarantee similar dance floor destruction.

Add to that a brand new song from Gene Dudley, entitled The Mall Walk, and the added bonus of Gene's never before released remix of the Scrimshire classic Alignment, featuring the sultry vocals of Stac, and you've got a package filled to the brim with serious Wah Wah 45s talent!

In the live arena, rather than trying to play all the instruments himself though, Gene deploys a quartet of top notch young musicians to help him out (whilst Gene mixes it up between bass and keys throughout the set), as witnessed when they supportedThe Hot 8 Brass Band, played The Soundwave Festival London Launch, rocked Brixton's Hootananny, and will soon be seen again when they support Stones Throw artists Myron & E at London's Jazz Cafe in December. Look out for that, and much more to come from this new star of the deep funk and soul scene!

NEW RELEASES - TOM WOPAT, ROMAN STOLYAR / VLADIMIR LUCHANSKY, OTIS TRIO

TOM WOPAT - I'VE GOT YOUR NUMBER

Tom Wopat, star of stage, screen and TV has released a limited edition, special deluxe vinyl edition of his latest critically acclaimed album, "I've Got Your Number." The album, originally released in digital and CD formats in Feb. pays homage to the 'Mad Men' era, with Wopat performing classics from the Great American Songbook and contemporary songs from artists such as Paul Simon, Bruce Springsteen, James Taylor -- transforming them into jazz-tinged renditions. In this limited edition, Wopat's legions of fans will have the opportunity to purchase one of the hand-numbered, double 180-gram vinyl, that also include the bonus tracks "That's Life" and Tom's original song "Thailand Sea," plus in-studio photos and personal notes from producer David Finck and Tom. 2013 has been a banner year for Wopat in all areas of entertainment; including the feature film, "Django Unchained," and most recently the award-winning Broadway show "A Trip to Bountiful." "I've Got Your Number," has been the recipient of much critical acclaim from media outlets notably the Huffington Post, Jazziz, All Music Guide, USA Today, Times Square Chronicles, and many more. With a 30-piece orchestra and stellar arrangements by Tedd Firth, Henry Hay and John Oddo, the album is a true nod to the orchestra/big band hybrid of the '60s and '70s. "It is only fitting that we release this album on vinyl," states Tom. "We've evoked the spirit of the New York supper club era and the cool vibe of the Mad Men days when vinyl recordings were supreme!" 

ROMAN STOLYAR / VLADIMIR LUCHANSKY - DUETS

“Duets” is a collaboration of two most active members of Siberian community of musicians and improvisers. Luchansky and Stolyar played together for some years, mainly in groups organized by Siberian new jazz patriarch, Sergey Belichenko. Together they played with well-known improvisers who visited Novosibirsk: Assif Tsahar, Oliver Lake, Glen Hall, William Parker. That is why at the time of duet album recording the musicians were сo-ordinated perfectly and spoke the same language, even multiple-languages of contemporary free improvisation. Inquisitive listener will find different things in the music of duet: radical “non-idiomology” originating from Derek Bailey, meditative modality, minimalism, sonorous techniques and bright melodic lines. All pieces from the album contrast sharply with each other, but at the same time they are the parts of unified whole, as from a fancy curls of pattern imprinted on the window on a cold day, revealing a fabulous picture of exotic Siberian nature for many people.

OTIS TRIO - OTIS NATU / MONTAG'S DREAM

This week sees the release of the debut 7" by Otis Trio. Far Out Recordings bringing the provocative, soul shaking sounds of Otis Trio to the world. Side A features the contagious fast paced rhythm of ‘Otis Natu’, an outstanding number that won’t allow your feet to be still. On Side B you can experience the ethereal beauty of ‘Montag’s Dream’, a piece in which Beto Montag’s vibraphone shows its haunting beauty at its full power. Here’s a record that surely marks the beginning of something timeless and captivating.

6-CD BOX SET DUE FROM CREEDENCE CLEARWATER REVIVAL

Even the most in-depth exploration of Creedence Clearwater Revival’s Fantasy Records catalog wouldn’t necessarily reveal that they hailed from the Bay Area. Their glorious brand of stripped-down roots rock seemed to emanate straight from the murky swamps of Louisiana and smoky juke joints dotting the outskirts of Memphis, with a fierce musical attack that was raw and primal. CCR was one of the most important and commercially popular bands of the late 1960s and early ‘70s, defined by John Fogerty’s whipsaw vocals, slashing lead guitar, and prolific muse. Their seminal albums for Fantasy Records (six platinum, the other gold) are loaded with timeless hits.

Set for reissue on November 11, Creedence Clearwater Revival: 6-CD Boxed Set contains everything the rockers cut in the studio for Fantasy from 1967 to 1972—their seven studio albums (Creedence Clearwater Revival, Bayou Country, Green River, Willy and The Poor Boys, Cosmo’s Factory, Pendulum, and Mardi Gras) packed with smashes (“Proud Mary,” “Bad Moon Rising,”  “Down On The Corner,” “Fortunate Son,” “Green River,” “Travelin’ Band,” “Up Around The Bend,” “Lookin’ Out My Back Door”). There’s nearly a disc-and-a-half of live material from concerts at the Oakland Coliseum and across the European continent as well, proving that CCR was as explosive onstage as within the confines of the studio.

Also on board are 25 1961-1967 rarities from the days when John, his brother Tom (on rhythm guitar and some lead vocals), bassist Stu Cook, and drummer Doug Clifford did business as Tommy Fogerty & the Blue Velvets and then the Golliwogs. These hard-rocking garage band gems, collectors’ items all, comprise the entire first disc of this box.

The big difference between this edition of the CCR box and its acclaimed 2001 predecessor is its sleeker, highly attractive packaging.  The artwork highlights the band’s strong affinity for Kustom amplifiers, paying clever tribute to their gritty garage rock roots in the process. Its “amplified” cover looks like a Kustom rig; prominently featured elsewhere is a photo of John and Doug sharing an onstage high-five with one of those distinctive amps in the background. It’s featured on the inner sleeve of each disc, divided into six sections. When laid out together in the correct order, those six individual sleeves create the full photograph. The joyous image is as powerful as the music itself.

Comprehensive liner notes by well-known rock journalists Ben Fong-Torres, Robert Christgau, Ed Ward, Joel Selvin, Craig Werner, Alec Palao and Dave Marsh expertly detail CCR’s career in the deluxe accompanying booklet, which contains a plethora of vintage photos of the iconic band. No boxed set will ever cover CCR’s history more comprehensively than this one—or do it more attractively.

MARY CHAPIN CARPENTER - SONGS FROM THE MOVIE DUE JAN. 14

Mary Chapin Carpenter’s debut orchestral record, Songs From The Movie, will be released January 14 on Zoë/Rounder Records. Recorded at Air Studios in London, the album was arranged and conducted by six-time Grammy Award winner Vince Mendoza (Sting, Diana Krall, Chris Botti, Elvis Costello, Björk, Joni Mitchell) and was produced by Carpenter and Mendoza along with Matt Rollings (Keith Urban, Lyle Lovett). Featured on the album are new interpretations of ten beloved songs by Carpenter, including “Between Here and Gone” and “Come On Come On.” 

In celebration of the album, Carpenter is set to embark on her first tour with a live orchestral backing. The tour will run throughout 2014 and includes a special debut performance at the Glasgow Royal Concert Hall with the BBC Scottish Symphony Orchestra on January 24 as well as a date at L.A.’s Disney Concert Hall with L.A. Philharmonic on February 8. See reverse for complete details.

Songs From The Movie pairs Carpenter’s songbook with an ensemble of London’s finest orchestral musicians and features Peter Erskine (Weather Report, John Abercrombie, Rod Stewart, Michael Bublé, Joni Mitchell, Diana Krall) on drums. Of the recording process, Carpenter comments, “Working with Vince Mendoza was incredibly inspiring. His arrangements gave these existing songs new meanings, new colors, new feelings, new destinations. To hear them played by the world class orchestra assembled at Air Studios was beyond any artistic experience that I could have imagined.”

The past two years have been landmark years for acclaimed singer-songwriter. In addition to releasing Ashes and Roses (2012) to widespread critical acclaim, Carpenter was recently inducted into the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and won an Emmy award for her work on Nashville Public Television's “No Going Back: Women and the War.” Over the course of her career, Carpenter has recorded 12 albums and has sold over 13 million records. With hits like “Passionate Kisses” and “He Thinks He’ll Keep Her,” she has won five Grammy Awards (with 15 nominations), two CMA awards and two Academy of Country Music awards for her vocals. Her songs speak to the most personal of life’s details and the most universal.

NEW RELEASES - JACQUES BREL & FRANCOIS RAUBER, MICHEL LEGRAND, SONGS FROM THE GRASSY KNOLL

JACQUES BREL & FRANCOIS RAUBER - CHANSONS ET MUSIQUES DE FILMS

A great look at a much lesser-known side of the career of French singer Jacques Brel – his key performances in films of the late 60s and early 70s, most of which received strong musical backing from his longtime arranger Francois Rauber! Brel didn't always sing on screen – he was a surprisingly great actor, too – especially in comedies – but his movies often featured a vocal number or two as part of the package, and Rauber was often on hand to provide some deft touches to the score! This 2CD package is the first to explore this lost legacy in Brel's career, and is a really great balance between his own vocal performances and instrumental numbers from Rauber – 42 tracks from films that include Le Far West, Le Panier A Crabes, Mon Oncle Benjamin, L'Emmerdeur, Le Bar De La Fourche, Tintin Et Le Temple Du Soleil, La Bande A Bonnot, and others. ~ Dusty Groove.

MICHEL LEGRAND - ANTHOLOGY

A massive amount of music from Michel Legrand – a sublime set that goes way beyond his famous soundtrack work, to offer up jazz, vocal, pop, and even symphonic material as well! The box brings together 15 CDs, each of which offers up a sublime slice of Legrand's genius – lots of which has never been presented on CD before. The set includes the instrumental albums I Love Paris and Legrand In Rio, the jazz albums Legrand Jazz and Plays Richard Rogers, a Tribute To George Gershwin, the Stan Getz album Communcations 72, the Bud Shank album Bud Shank Plays Michel Legrand, a CD of Original Arrangements & Songs, a CD of Vocal Performances from the mid 60s, a CD of collaborations with Jacques Demy, harp/piano duets on Jazzic In Classic, a CD of Symphonic Works, a CD of Legrand's work interpreted by International Performers, a CD of Stage Musical compositions (Monte Cristo, Jarry Sur La Butte, and Bistro), a CD of work from Animated Films (including Oum Le Dauphin Blanc, La Flute A Six Schtroumphs, and Il Etaite Une Fois L'Espace), a Tribute To Alain Delon (La Piscine/unused music from Le Cercle Rouge), a CD of work for Joseph Losey films (Eva, The Go-Between, and Les Routes Du Sud), and a CD of music for American Movies (Castle Keep, Portnoy's Complaint, It's Good To Be Alive, and Gable & Lombard). 300 songs, and over 17 hours of music – plus a great booklet too! ~ Dusty Groove.

TRAGIC SONGS FROM THE GRASSY KNOLL: JOHN F. KENNEDY 50TH ANNIVERSARY COLLECTION

One of the weirdest sub-genres of music you'll ever hope to discover – a whole host of songs that were issued in the wake of the untimely early death of John F Kennedy – a batch of tribute tunes to the late president, served up in a unique collection of rare singles! There's a surprisingly large number of country songs on the set – no surprise, as the story format of the genre works perfectly for the tributes – as does the country style of stepping out with a monologue in the middle. A few other numbers are more rocking, but in a somber way – and all together, the singles unearth this lost musical legacy that really demonstrates the power of the man at the time. Titles include "Memories Of Kennedy" by Hasil Adkins, "Tragedy Of John F Kennedy" by The Justice Brothers, "A Tragedy In Dallas" by James Dotson, "John F Kennedy" by Buddy Pastuck, "Lee Harvey Was A Friend Of Mine" by Homer Henderson, "Two Brothers" by Bobby Jenzen, "Tribute To President Kennedy" by Johnny Dee, and "A Sunny Day In Dallas" by The Honorable Bob Peters. ~ Dusty Groove.

 

NEW RELEASES - MILTON NASCIMENTO, EKUNDAYO, ROBERTO MENESCAL & ANDREA AMORIM

MILTON NASCIMENTO - UMA TRAVESSIA - 50 ANOS DE CARREIRA AO VIVO

One of the best albums we've heard from Milton Nascimento in years – and a really beautiful live performance that pays tribute to his 5 decades in music! The performance has a crisp, personal quality we don't always hear in Milton's studio work these days – and the band worked with Nascimento on the arrangements, which have just the right mix of complexity and intimacy to recall his corner club years – and still bring out all the best aspects in his vocals. Of course, it helps that most of the tunes here are classics – and even later numbers seem to benefit from the old school handling of the set – as you'll hear on titles that include "Anima", "Lagrimas Do Sul", "Cais", "Vera Cruz", "Para Lennon E McCartney", "Cancaoes E Momentos", "Travessia", "Raca", "Maria Maria", and "Amor De Indio". ~ Dusty Groove

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EKUNDAYO - EKUNDAYO

A really amazing project, with roots in a number of different styles – and a quality that's quite unlike anything else we've ever heard before! The group's got a trans-American vibe – contributions from US musicians like Scotty Hard, Melvin Gibbs, and Rob Mazurek, mixed with percussion from Nana Vasconcelos, and topped with vocals and rhymes from Mike Ladd, Lurdez Da Luz, and R Brandao! The music's got the kind of darkly funky quality in the rhythms that we know from Gibbs' earlier projects – although Melvin is just a guest musician on the set – but there's also some of the textured electronics that Mazurek uses in some of his Sao Paulo Underground material, too – which gives the album a very deep feel, even when the lyrics are more direct. Titles include "Family Thang", "Freak Rocker", "Prelevar", "Just Love", "Night Of The Hunter", "Claudio Cafe", and "Em Nove". ~ Dusty Grooove

ROBERTO MENESCAL & ANDREA AMORIM - BOSSA DE ALMA NOVA

Beautiful bossa from the great Roberto Menescal – and a set that features breezy vocals from Andrea Amorim in the lead, with a style that's a lot like some of Menescal's previous projects with Wanda Sa! Menescal plays acoustic guitar, handles arrangements, and sings a bit too – bringing a mature sensibility to the record that really keeps the proceedings in a classic bossa mode, while still showing some of the freshest touches we've heard from him in years – quite possibly because Amorim's such a delightful partner for the project! Production is a bit more personal than other recent Menescal projects, and the phrasing of both guitars and vocals is mighty nice – way more than just a bossa copycat session. Titles include "A Morte De Um Deus De Sal", "Eu Canto Meu Blues", "Agarradinhos", "O Barquinho", "Bye Bye Brasil", "Nos E O Mar", and "Solidao Nunca Mais". ~ Dusty Groove

NEW RELEASES - LA LA BROOKS, CLARA HILL, ERIC REED

LA LA BROOKS - ALL OR NOTHING

Brand new solo work from La La Brooks of The Crystals – a singer who first worked with Phil Spector when she was only 13 years old – and who still sounds pretty darn great all these many years later! The folks at Norton have kept the record strongly in an old school 60s soul mode – a style that works perfectly with La La's lead, as she works her way through a surprisingly great range of tunes – not just soul numbers, but a few surprising rockers from the Small Faces, Bee Gees, Willy DeVille, and others – tracks that really help bring a mod soul vibe to the album. Titles include "All Or Nothing", "A Boy Like You", "Crazy For You", "Dear Boy Love Girl", "I Broke That Promise", "Sun Is Shining", and "Two Is Company". ~ Dusty Groove.

CLARA HILL - WALK THE DISTANCE

It's been many years since we last heard from Clara Hill – an artist we first fell in love with about a decade ago, as part of the Sonar Kollektiv scene in Germany – and she's really grown a lot in the process, and has started to do some amazing things with her music! The Hill heard here is heavy on analogue electronics – loads of cool keyboards and deep bass bits that almost feel like they're lifted from the left field of electro work from the early 80s – yet handled with more sophistication, and turned towards some of the more soulful phrasing we've come to expect from Clara. Vocals are still a part of her picture, but much less so than before – which leaves lots of room for the instrumentation, which often initiates the feel of a tune before Clara's lyrics slide in. Titles include "Night Work", "Walk The Distance", "Lost Winter", "Heading Out", "Insomnia", and "Dripstone Cave". ~ Dusty Groove

ERIC REED - REFLECTIONS OF A GRATEFUL HEART

Reflections Of A Grateful Heart is the latest CD release from Eric Reed, one of the most innovative pianists in modern jazz. This CD features Reed in a rare solo piano setting, performing jazz and gospel selections and celebrating the music that has been this critically-renown artist's greatest influences. The CD includes the gospel standards I Love The Lord by Richard Smallwood, Changed by Walter Hawkins, and solo piano renditions of Reed's own compositions Prayer, and New Morning. Reed, whose first performances were in his father's storefront Baptist church, was bitten by the jazz bug after hearing recordings by Art Blakey, Ramsey Lewis and Dave Brubeck. Reflections Of A Grateful Heart is the continuation of Reed artistically blending his jazz and gospel influences in a unique fashion. ~ Amazon