Rafael Greco - Dice que vive (Signs of Life)In his own words, Rafael Greco offers the following about his album, “Dice que vive” (Signs of Life): This album begins with a study of reiteration. Generally, in folk music, rhythmic cells are repeated to form a continuous fabric that groove and inspire dancing. Upon discovering the rhythms of Central Africa and composer Steve Reich caused me to listen to reiteration, the art of repitition from another angle. It was almost like looking at a butterfly's wings through a microscope. Each song contains reiterative cues, layers of sounds, carefully designed textures that were vital to creating a work that could give the impression of being a simple yet coherent architectural illusion. The album is a tribute to my family, to the music of my homeland, to my memories, to the places and people that marked the way I perceive my surroundings. It is a sincere attempt to express my musical and artistic nature. I must mention some of the great masters who influenced this work: Naná Vasconcelos, Charles Ives, Toru Takemitsu, Don Grolnick, Johnny Pacheco, Ángel Canales, Keith Jarrett, Django Bates, Federico Mompou, Steve Winwood, Bruce Hornsby, Lyle Mays, Michael Brecker, Adalberto Santiago, Gil Evans, Herbie Hancock, Joe Henderson, Steve Reich, James Taylor, Juan de Dios Martínez, Olivier Messiaen, Joe Zawinul, Peter Gabriel and Oliver Knussen.
All Smooth Jazz artists hope their music offers listeners hope and inspiration, but pop, jazz, R&B and gospel driven saxophonist Kenny Nightingale takes that a step further by including a Following Your Dream section on his website that includes impactful phrases he takes to heart: “Embrace Your Passion,” “Always Live Like Your Life is Golden” and “Be Inspired By Everything.” The multi-talented Nigerian-born artist follows his hit 2020 debut album Breathe with the uniquely titled single “My Saxophone,” a bold and uplifting, funky, horn drenched track that offers a dazzling, fun-spirited showcase of the magic Nightingale brings to his cherished instrument. Adding fire to the celebration are Erica Newell’s gospel flavored vocals, and intoxicating solos by Sankey Bullet on keys and Michael Osadolo on wah guitar. Full album coming soon. ~ www.smoothjazz.com
Michael Ross - Four Seasons to Cross
Long before he was amassing an impressive catalog of urban jazz gems, opening for Chaka Khan and Patti Labelle, recording with Najee and performing with the likes of Ramsey Lewis and Jonathan Butler, guitarist/composer Michael Ross was staff guitarist for a touring company of “The Wiz.” The yellow brick road journey is the perfect metaphor for his blessed and eclectic musical road that leads now to the release of Four Seasons To Cross, his first album in eight years that alternates between lighthearted, spirited breeziness, whimsical exotica, seductive funk balladry and contemplative cool that reflects a multi-faceted, polyrhythmic journey through the seasons. From a snappy trip to Rio to a silky seductive tune about winter approaching, Ross invites listeners on a magnificent and inspiring adventure. ~ www.smoothjazz.com
Michael Silverman & Eric Marienthal - In These Times
While the staggering number of 6 billion downloads and streams may be hard to fathom, Michael Silverman – the most streamed pianist on the planet - has made each a joyful experience over the past 15 years with his diverse array of stylistic excursions. Sure to add quickly to his total, his latest destination is “Clearwater,” a buoyant, melodically infectious, easy grooving romp blending Silverman’s lively elegance with Eric Marienthal’s always spirited sax. Joining forces with legendary bassist John Pattitucci, Silverman’s brother Rob on drums and percussionist Casey Adams, they have a sunswept blast that celebrates their initial meeting playing the Clearwater Jazz Holiday festival. This perfect Smooth Jazz cure for the winter blues is the second lead single from Silverman’s remotely created upcoming album In These Times. ~ www.smoothjazz.com
No comments:
Post a Comment