DIANA KRALL TOUR DATES

Diana Krall will perform the following concerts:
June 8 - Yoshi's, Oakland CA
June 9 – Yoshi’s, Oakland, CA
June 14 - Las Vegas Hilton, Las Vegas NV
June 15 – Las Vegas Hilton, Las Vegas, NV
June 16 – Las Vegas Hilton, Las Vegas, NV
June 17 – Las Vegas Hilton, Las Vegas, NV
June 19 - Wente Vineyards, Livermore CA
June 20 - Mountain Winery, Saratoga CA
June 21 – Mountain Winery, Saratoga, CA
June 24 - Wells Fargo Center, Santa Rosa CA
July 7 - Borgata Hotel, Atlantic City NJ
July 8 - New Jersey PAC, Newark NY
July 9 - Constellation PAC, Canandaigua NY
July 10 - Providence Performing Arts Center, Providence RI
July 12 - Chevrolet Theatre, Wallingford CT
July 13 - Cape Code Melody Tent, Hyannis MA
July 14 - Bank of America Pavilion, Boston MA
July 16 - Wolf Trap, Vienna VA
July 18 - Chastain Park, Atlanta GA
July 19 - Schermerhorn Symphony Center, Nashville TN
July 21 - Fox Theater, Detroit MI
August 7 - Les Schwab Amphitheater, Bend OR
August 8 - Cuthbert Amphitheatre, Eugene OR
August 9 - Keller Auditorium, Portland OR
August 11 - Chateau Ste. Marie, Woodinville WA
August 12 – Chateua Ste. Marie, Woodinville, WA
August 14 - Harvey's Outdoor Amphitheatre, Stateline NV
August 15 - Davies Symphony Hall, San Francisco CA
August 17 - Hollywood Bowl, Los Angeles CA
August 18 – Hollywood Bowl, Los Angeles, CA
August 19 - Santa Barbara County Bowl, Santa Barbara CA
August 21 - Pechanga Casino, Temecula CA
August 22 – Bayside, San Diego CA
August 23 - Dodge Theater, Phoenix AZ
August 26 - Georgia O'Keefe Museum, Santa Fe NM
August 27 - Red Rocks, Morrison CO
August 28 - Santa Fe Opera House, Santa Fe NM
August 29 - Fox Theatre, St. Louis MO
August 31 - Riverside Theater, Milwaukee WI
September 2 – Ravinia, Highland Park IL
September 22 - Monterey Jazz Festival, Monterey CA

NORAH JONES & ORNETTE COLEMAN TOPLINE GASTEIZ JAZZ FESTIVAL

Composer, singer and pianist Norah Jones, jazz innovator Ornette Coleman, film director Spike Lee and Spain's Niño Josele and Buika will be the main attraction of the 31st Vitoria-Gasteiz Jazz Festival de Jazz, being held in the Basque city from July 15th to 21st. For one week a year Vitoria-Gasteiz takes over the baton of New Orleans and becomes the world-wide capital of jazz. The Vitoria-Gasteiz Jazz Festival celebrates its 31st festival in 2007 and it is the most prestigious jazz festival in Spain. Over the years, many important artists have appeared for the first time in Spain at the Vitoria-Gasteiz Jazz Festival, and they include Bobby McFerrin, Roy Hardgrove, Madeleine Peyroux, and Jamie Cullum, among many others. Sonny Rollins and Wynton Marsalis were the last big stars to come to Vitoria-Gasteiz, and the city commemorated Marsalis’ stay with a statue of the man himself in the Paseo de la Florida, and he paid homage to the city performing for the first time a musical suite dedicated to Vitoria-Gasteiz.

CHICAGO TOUR DATES

Chicago will perform the following concerts:
June 6 - Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa FL
June 8 – BJCC, Birmingham AL
June 9 - Botanic Gardens, Memphis TN
June 10 - Chastain Park Amphitheatre, Atlanta GA
June 12 - Filene Center, Vienna VA
June 13 - Bank of America Pavilion, Boston MA
June 14 - Mohegan Sun Casino, Uncasville CT
June 16 - Bethel Woods Center, Bethel NY
June 17 - Tweeter Center, Camden NJ
June 19 - Casino Rama, Rama ON
June 20 – Casino Rama, Rama ON
June 22 - Jones Beach, Wantagh NY
June 23 - PNC Bank Arts Center, Holmdel NJ
June 24 - Borgata Hotel & Casino, Atlantic City NJ
June 26 - Riverbend Music Centre, Cincinnati OH
June 28 - Post-Gazette Pavilion, Pittsburgh PA
June 29 - DTE Energy Theatre, Detroit MI
June 30 - Charter One Pavilion, Chicago IL
July 3 - Zoo Amphitheatre, Oklahoma City OK
July 6 - Sleep Train Amphitheatre, Concord CA
July 7 - Greek Theatre, Los Angeles CA
July 8 - Open Air Theatre, San Diego CA
July 19 - Rock Fest, Farwell MI
July 20 - Great Jones Fair, Monticello IA
July 21 – RockFest, Cadott WI
July 22 - RockFest in Farwell MI
July 23 - Porter County Fair, Valparaiso IN
July 24 - Elkhart County Fair, Goshen IN
July 27 - Navy Concert, Norfolk VA
July 28 - Innsbrook Pavilion, Richmond VA
July 29 - Booth Amphitheatre, Cary NC
August 1 – Biltmore, Asheville NC
August 3 - Beau Rivage, Biloxi MS
August 4 – Beau Rivage, Biloxi MS
August 17 - Casablanca Casino, Mesquite NV
August 18 - Mandalay Bay, Las Vegas NV
August 19 - Peppermill Casino, Wendover NV
August 21 - Breeden Fieldhouse, Bozeman MT
August 23 - Spirit Mountain Casino, Grande Ronde OR
August 24 - Northern Quest Casino, Airway Heights WA
August 25 - Chateau Ste. Michelle Winery, Woodinville WA
August 26 – Chateua Ste. Michelle Winery, Woodinville WA
August 29 - Britt Pavilions, Jacksonville OR
August 31 - Mountain Winery, Saratoga CA
September 1 – Mountain Winery, Saratoga, CA
September 2 - California State Fair, Sacramento CA
September 6 - East Idaho State Fair, Blackfoot ID
September 7 - Rock Jam, Grand Junction CO
September 9 - Kansas State Fair, Hutchinson KS
September 11 - Clay County Fair, Spencer IA

BOZ SCAGGS TOUR DATES

Boz Scaggs will perform the following concerts:
July 7 - Radisson Hotel, Sacramento CA
July 8 - Grand Sierra Resort, Reno NV
July 10 - Wells Fargo Center, Santa Rosa CA
July 13 - Mountain Winery, Saratoga CA
July 14 – Mountain Winery, Saratoga CA
July 17 - Grove of Anaheim, Anaheim CA
July 18 - Humphrey's Concerts by the Bay, San Diego CA
July 20 - Canyon Club, Agoura Hills CA
July 21 - House of Blues, Las Vegas NV
July 24 - Cape Cod Melody Tent, Hyannis MA
July 27 - Tropicana Casino, Atlantic City NJ
July 28 - North Fork Theatre, Westbury NY

LEGACY OF SOUL SINGER OTIS REDDING TO BE COMMEMORATED IN 2007

December 10, 2007 will mark the 40th Anniversary of the death of legendary soul singer, Otis Redding. Ranked # 21 on Rolling Stone's "100 Greatest Artist of All Time" list, Redding emerged onto the music scene in the early 1960's, quickly establishing himself as a superstar artist and savvy businessman. In just a few years, he amassed a string of timeless hits, such as "I've Been Loving You Too Long," "Satisfaction," "Try a Little Tenderness," and "Respect," that would crossover into the mainstream, establish him as an international celebrity and strongly influence artists of all genres for generations to come. "Respect," which Redding penned in 1965, was a Top 10 hit for him and later became a # 1 smash for Aretha Franklin in 1967. It remains one of the most well-loved and recognizable songs of all time.

Tragically and way before his time, Otis Redding was killed in a plane crash in December, 1967 at the youthful age of 26, leaving his wife, Zelma and three children to mourn his death. Although he was very young at the time of his passing, Redding had already made an enormous impact on the music industry. He had released numerous hit albums and smash singles before his death and "Sittin on the Dock of the Bay," released posthumously, became his 17th straight hit, first million-seller and one of
his most popular songs.

On May 11th of this year, Otis Redding was inducted into the famed Hollywood's Rock Walk, along with The Mamas & The Papas and Al Kooper. This prestigious honor serves as the perfect commencement to a number of events the Redding family is presenting in 2007 to celebrate what would have been his 66th birthday on September 9th, to commemorate the anniversary of his passing and to recognize the outstanding legacy of his career.

First in the series of festivities will be a week-long tribute in Redding's hometown, Macon GA, celebrating the anniversary of Redding's September birthday. These events include a concert, An Evening of R-E-S-P-E- C-T, on September 14th. The concert will showcase Redding's sons Dexter and Otis III, The Macon Symphony Orchestra and other celebrity artists and will benefit THE BIG "O" YOUTH EDUCATIONAL DREAM FOUNDATION.

The foundation, which was established by Redding's widow, Zelma Redding, was created to empower youth to remain confident, motivated and interested in education through music and arts programs. It was always a personal mission of Redding's to encourage young people to stay in school. Before his passing, he had developed programs to be held at his ranch where he invited people from all areas of the music industry to lecture to children on the importance of education and learning. Of her husband's efforts, Zelma Redding says, "Otis would tell me," 'If it takes music to get the
attention of these young people, then let's educate them through music.'

Coinciding with the musical tribute will be the unveiling of Otis Redding: I've Got Dreams to Remember, a special exhibition at the Georgia Music Hall of Fame in Macon. The exhibit features behind-the-scenes photographs taken by a wide range of noted professionals in the U.S. and in France. In addition, more than 175 artifacts vividly tell the story of Redding's rise to stardom, including rare, hand-written song lyrics,posters, letters and promotional memorabilia. The exhibition is on display

September 14, 2007 through September 10, 2008 and is curated by Ellen Fleurov, president of Crossroads Traveling Exhibition, Atlanta, and a nationally recognized independent scholar, writer and curator. The exhibit will travel across the U.S. throughout 2008 and 2009 and there are plans to present An Evening of Respect in other cities. These and other to-be-announced commemorations are being made possible with gracious support from various companies and organizations who are helping the
Redding Family keep the legacy of Otis Redding alive.

2007 TD CANADA ATLANTIC JAZZ FESTIVAL, 21st EDITION

Organizers have announced the headline roster for the 21st Atlantic Jazz Festival, slated to run this year from July 13 to 21 in Halifax. Scheduled to take place in a variety of venues throughout the city, headliners announced this past Wednesday include guitarist Bill Frisell and his trio of Joey Baron and Tony Scheer, Jerry Granelli’s V16 combo, South African trumpet legend Hugh Masakela, and 2007 Juno Award winner Jon Ballantyne.

For blues fans are the Downchild Blues Band, and slide guitarist Ellen McIlwaine with tabla player Cassius Khan. For Latin music lovers are East Coast groups HavanaFax (opening for Masakela), Salsa Picante (with Toronto world soul group Mr. Something Something), and El Viento Flamenco with Gypsophilia. Avant garde acts will include keyboardist Andy Milne with saxophonist Dani Oore, and music/spoken word quartet Language Arts, while the acoustic series will feature saxophonists David Mott and Kirk MacDonald, and cellist Matt Brubeck with pianist David Braid. The Jazz Sub-Pop-Terranean Series presents Montreal improv instrumental trio Torngat; Tallboys, the Brubeck collaboration with guitarist Kevin Breit and drummer Jesse Stewart; and UK sound artist Max Tundra.

Among the headliners for The Late Night Series are Canadian keyboard giant Doug Riley, Paul Cram’s Guerrilla Vacation, Montreal pianist Marianne Trudel, and Montreal saxophonist Christine Jensen’ and her quartet. Local music showcases include a CD launch by veteran bassist Jamie Gatti, the all-star collaboration TONIC, and Doris Mason’s Ella Fitzgerald Tribute.

HIGHLIGHTS OF ATLANTIC JAZZ FESTIVAL 2007
Friday July 13: Bill Frisell with Joey Baron & Tony Scherr, Jerry Granelli’s V16
Saturday July 14: Mamani Keita & Nicholas Rapac, Louis Mhlanga, Kojo, Zumbi, Ellen Mcilwaine, Torngat, CMW Faculty Concert

Sunday July 15: Slavic Soul Party, Hylozoists, Synchronics, Dave James’ Jazz Hoods, Paul Cram’s Guerilla Vacation, Bill Brennan, Roy Patterson

Monday July 16: Hugh Masakela, Havanafax, Clas Larsson, Jamie Gatti CD Release, See Through Trio, Andy Milne & Jon Ballantyne, Horsepower Blues, Brandi Disterheft Trio

Tuesday July 17: Downchild Blues Band, Morgan Davis, Shirley Jackson & Good Rockin’ Daddies, Tonic, Andy Milne & Dani Oore, Marianne Trudel & Richard Whiteman, Uncle Fester & Fresh Kils’ Tonic Remixed, Doug Riley Quintet

Wednesday July 18: Beyond the Pale, Talhambra, KC and the Sunshine Men, Scott ‘n’ the Rocks, Doris Mason’s Ella Fitzgerald Tribute, Language Arts, Christine Jensen Quartet, Brubeck/Braid, Barry Romberg’s Random Access Quartet, Tonic

Thursday July 19: Salsa Picante, Mr. Something Something, Tom Daniels, Sillan & Young, Simon Fisk, Dan Weiss Trio, V16 / Sanctuary, Tallboys, Doug Riley Quintet

Friday July 20: Canefire, Afromusica, Los Primos Big Band, Holly Carr / Men With Gloves, Andy Cragg Nonet, Barriomatic Trust, Murley/Davidson/Braid Quintet, Joel Harrison & Harvest, Max Tundra, V16

Saturday July 21: Gypsophilia, El Viento Flamenco, Tuesday Night Big Band, Chebucto Big Band, Big Valley Swing Orchestra, Tthunderbolts, CMW Showcase with Howard Levy / Greg Amirault Quartet, Soul Jazz Orchestra & People Project
for more information visit www.jazzeast.com

ELDAR RE-IMAGINATION

"Eldar has the fastest hands in jazz...melds Russian soul (in the ballads) with American razzle-dazzle." -- Billboard

Jazz pianist Eldar documents his transition from youthful prodigy to creative artist with the release of re-imagination. Born and raised in Russia, Eldar's mother nurtured his burgeoning talent and he soon became a student of the classical Russian School of Music where he refined his technique. However, it was when his father introduced him to jazz legends Oscar Peterson, Chick Corea and Herbie Hancock that he "fell in love with jazz for life." From the age of nine, Eldar's awards and accolades accumulated and peaked with a performance at the Grammy Awards in 2000 and a first place recipient award in the Peter Nero Piano Competition. His previous album, 2006's Live At The Blue Note, cemented Eldar as one of the most formidable jazz musicians of his generation.

On re-imagination, Eldar explores in-depth compositions by reflecting on people, places and events in his life. He conceived the project as a pseudo suite, weaving together nine originals and two standards into an autobiographical narrative arc. The opening track, “I Remember When,” was written for his parents and his "wonderful" upbringing. "Prairie Village" recalls the time he spent in his first American hometown, a suburb of Kansas City. Also featured on the disc is "Place St. Henri" by Oscar Peterson, whom Eldar cites as his foremost influence. To top it all, master turntablist DJ Logic brings a unique, distinctive edge and texture to the music seldom found on jazz records. With re-imagination, Eldar finally manages to get the range, virtuosity and fun of his renowned live shows onto an album. For those who have not yet experienced Eldar live, check out this video to get a taste and be prepared to buy your tickets when he comes near your town on his US tour. He wowed audiences recently at his sold-out release party at Joe's Pub proving that he can break physical barriers with his piano playing on record and on stage. As Downbeat Magazine's Robert Doerschuk states, "it's what he does when the razzle-dazzle dies down and we sense substance within and beyond his pyrotechnics" that truly sets him apart from the pack.

AMOS LEE TOUR DATES

Amos Lee will perform the following concerts: June 29 at Britt Festivals in Jacksonville OR, July 4 at Willie Nelson's 4th of July Picnic in Quincy WA, July 13 at North Sea Jazz Festival in Rotterdam Netherlands, August 5 at Newport Folk Festival in Newport RI, August 29 at Botanic Gardens Amphitheatre in Denver CO, and September 2 at moe.down in Turin NY.

JOSS STONE TOUR DATES

Joss Stone will perform the following concerts: June 8 at Central Park SummerStage in New York NY, June 11 at Avalon in Boston MA, June 13 at Filene Center in Vienna VA, June 16 at Revolution in Ft. Lauderdale FL, June 22 at Glastonbury Festival in Pilton UK, June 24 at Knowsley Hall Music Festival in Prescot UK, July 1 at Concert for Diana in London UK, July 11 at Henieken Music Hall in Amsterdam Netherlands, July 14 at Jazz Oopen in Stuttgart Germany, July 17 at Wiesen Festival in Wiesen Austria, July 20 at Summer Festival in Lucca Italy, July 22 at Gurtenfestival in Bern Switzerland, July 29 at Fuji Rock Festival in Nigata Japan, August 30 at Deer Valley Resort in Deer Valley UT, September 1 at Jazz Aspen in Aspen CO, September 6 at Britt Pavilion in Jacksonville OR, September 8 at Mandalay Bay Resort in Las Vegas NV, September 14 at Austin City Limits Festival in Austin TX, September 20 at Charter One Pavilion in Chicago IL, and October 31 at Ahoy in Rotterdam Netherlands.

‘STILL KOOL’ FROM KOOL AND THE GANG

The upcoming new album of material by Kool & the Gang called “Still Kool,” is scheduled for July 10 on New Door Records.    As a bonus to this album, there will be included a Limited Edition bonus disc of 5 songs featuring the following songs “Celebration,” Hollywood Swinging,” Summer Madness,” Joanna,” and the Eumir Deodato-produced “Ladies Night.”                        

MICHAEL FRANKS TOUR DATES

Jazz singer Michael Franks is currently on the road and has scheduled a batch of upcoming appearances:

June 22 – Richmond, VA @ Kanawha Plaza/Fridays at Sunset Series
July 20 – New Orleans, LA @ House Of Blues
July 21 – Lithonia, GA @ Stewart Amphitheatre
July 27 – Indianapolis, IN @ Music Mill
July 28 – Detroit, MI @ Chene Park
Aug 26 – Carry, NC @ Koka Booth Amphitheater
Oct 1 – Tokyo, Japan @ Billboard Live Nation
Oct 2 – Tokyo, Japan @ Billboard Live Nation
Oct 3 – Tokyo, Japan @ Billboard Live Nation
Oct 5 – Osaka, Japan @ Billboard Live Nation
Oct 6 – Osaka, Japan @ Billboard Live Nation

BOB MARLEY’S TO BECOME FIRST ARTIST TO HAVE MUSIC AVAILABLE VIA NEW TECHNOILOGY FORMAT

Bob Marley's masterpiece Exodus celebrates its 30th anniversary this summer, and will be commemorated with the release of an exclusive new version of the album. Starting today, limited edition copies of the recording will be available on USB Memory Stick via Bob Marley's official website. The event marks the very first artist-specific album to be released using this groundbreaking format.

Described by Time Magazine as "the best album of the 20th century," Exodus catches Marley at the height one of his most introspective, rebellious and creative periods, and it will now continue to make history by offering an alternative way for fans to purchase music, introducing them to the exciting technology available in today's music marketplace. In addition to the launch of this new format, the multi-layered promotion will also include a variety of added value and content to be released via Bob Marley's official site.

4000 limited edition reusable USB Memory Sticks feature not only the 10 original songs on Exodus but also audio and video content, including three video tracks recorded at London's Rainbow Theatre in June 1977. Fans that join the Bob Marley Passport Fan Club will receive the Exodus USB and also receive an exclusive carrying case, a 10% discount at the Bob Marley shop on the site, as well as a quarterly newsletter. Passport members will also have access to rare Bob Marley audio, video, and photos, as well as future digital media.

Also available June 4th, a variety of new and unique Bob Marley music and memorabilia never officially available before will be accessible for purchase to all Bob Marley site visitors:

-- EXODUS 30th ANNIVERSARY EDITION CD -- Featuring the 10 tracks on the
original release and now reissued as a special 30th Anniversary Edition
packaged -- for the first time - in a quality 'hardback' case.

-- DELUXE CD/ DVD- Limited to just 5000 copies, this version features not
only the album but also a separate DVD with 12 tracks from Marley's
historic Rainbow concerts in the summer of 1977.

-- LP- The return of the original and legendary 10-track vinyl album, as
first released in June 1977.

-- EXODUS 30th ANNIVERSARY BOOK -- A new special edition 144-page hardback
book that is lavishly illustrated with many previously unpublished
pictures and includes contributions from such writers as the esteemed
commentator and critic Richard Williams, Lloyd Bradley (author of the
acclaimed Bass Culture), Vivien Goldman, Robert Christgau, Neil Spencer
and the celebrated poet Linton Kwesi Johnson. The book, which features
over 200 images, is introduced by Chris Blackwell, the founder of
Island Records.

-- Exodus T-shirt based on the original tour T-shirt

Released in 1977, Marley recorded the Exodus album in exile. Having escaped an assassination attempt in Jamaica, he arrived in London during the first week of 1977 and set to work recording his fifth studio album. Exodus became the album that transformed Marley's career, a recording of extraordinary creative maturity, which resonated with audiences around the world. The album established Marley as the Third World's first superstar, a legacy that survives thirty years after the album's release

FIRST WESTCHESTER JAZZFEST TO FEATURE RICK BRAUN, PETER WHITE & BOB BALDWIN

The first Westchester Jazz Festival is set to launch this coming July 4th weekend with a lineup that will include the Jazz Attack featuring Rick Braun, Peter White, and Richard Elliot, along with keyboardist Bob Baldwin. The event is set for July 7th at Croton Point Park in Croton-on-Hudson, New York. Also set for the event are local musicians, including flautist Ragan Whiteside and guitarist Lou Volpe. More artists are expected to be announced. Baldwin, who also consults several radio stations, will be unveiling his new CD, The Sanctioned Bootleg, Vol. I, at the event.

PRINCE SIGNS WITH COLUMBIA - NEW ALBUM IN STORES JULY 24

Columbia Records is proud to work once again with Prince in the release of "Planet Earth" -- the latest full-length studio collection from the multi-platinum Grammy-winning artist -- available in North America on Tuesday, July 24, the culmination of a worldwide launch beginning July 16.

"Guitar," the first single from "Planet Earth," will be serviced to all radio formats on June 11. Prince's long-term musical proteges, Wendy & Lisa, are among the musicians appearing on "Planet Earth." Prince has recently announced the first dates of his upcoming World Tour, beginning August 1 at the O2 Arena in London, where the first of 15 concert dates sold-out in record time. Six additional dates have been added and will go on-sale next week.

"'Planet Earth' is a fantastic album and promises to be a musical milestone for Prince," said Rob Stringer. "The Columbia label is thrilled to be working with an iconic artist like Prince in this exciting stage of his amazing career."

"Guitar," the first single from Prince's upcoming new album, "Planet Earth," will be available free, for a promotional period, exclusively from Verizon Wireless. John Stratton, executive vice president and chief marketing officer of Verizon, noted, "When Prince, who has consistently been on the cutting edge of music, harnesses innovative technology to deliver his fresh new music, that's a tremendous opportunity for music lovers across the country. At Verizon, we're committed to delivering hot multimedia services to the public in a way that's powerful, direct and relevant."

Prince is planning to make his next single available as a free download to mobile phone users to build excitement for his forthcoming album, Planet Earth. Fans can download the song "Guitar" using the new Verizon Wireless V Cast song ID feature. The phone will identify the song for subscribers who hold the phone near a speaker, and also give information about websites where fans can view the accompanying video.

Prince is set to unveil a new fragrance called 3121 and has recently announced concert dates for Los Angeles and London.

MARC ANTOINE TO RELEASE ‘HI-LO’ IN JULY 2007

Smooth jazz guitarist Marc Antoine is set to release his eighth album, entitled Hi-Lo Split after a type of poker game. This will be his first project for Peak Records. Antoine is known for his acoustic Latin and flamenco guitar style, which he returns to after experimenting with techno sounds on 2005's Rendezvous release, Modern Times.According to smoothjazzvibes.com, among the 11 songs on Hi-Lo Split is a cover of the Classic IV's 40-year-old hit single, "Spooky." Antoine, who lives in Spain, used mostly local musicians for the CD. Other song titles include "For A Smile," "Silk & Steel" and "Tomorrow."

BONEY JAMES’ NEW CHRISTMAS CD

Boney James is wrapping production on a brand-new Christmas CD, due to be released this fall. Christmas Present (Concord) is James' second holiday collection, and his first in 11 years since Boney's Funky Christmas. On this new set, trumpeter Rick Braun will guest on "The First Noel" while vocalist Angie Stone sings "Merry Christmas Baby" and Chante' Moore does "Santa Baby." Other tracks planned include Joni Mitchell's "River" and everyone's favorite Charlie Brown holiday song, "Skating," originally done by Vince Guaraldi. Boney's current CD, Shine, is the gift that just keeps giving: the new single, "Hypnotic," is the second Number One from the project

MAYSA LEAK HITS THE SMOOTH JAZZ CHARTS WITH ‘FEEL THE FIRE’

Smooth jazz vocalist Maysa Leak landed back on the charts this week with her new Shanachie CD Feel The Fire. The new set offers up more R&B favorites re-interpreted by the former Incognito singer, following her 2006 release Sweet Classic Soul. On the new set Maysa covers the Peabo Bryson title tune, as well as Bill Withers' "Ain't No Sunshine," Norman Connors' "You Are My Starship," Stevie Wonder's "I Can't Help It," Evelyn "Champagne" King's "I'm In Love," and the Commodores' "Zoom," among others. Feel The Fire debuted this week at Number 30 on Billboard's Top R&B/Hip-Hop Albums chart. Maysa will perform Saturday, June 9th, at B.B. King's Blues Club in New York City. For more dates, go to maysa.com.

NEW CLASSICAL CD DUE FROM LEE RITENOUR

Guitarist Lee Ritenour is hard at work on his second classical crossover album with pianist Dave Grusin, who collaborated with him on a similar project called Two Worlds seven years ago. That album spent a year on the Billboard Classical Crossover chart and was nominated for a Grammy. This upcoming album will also feature the talents of smooth jazz trumpeter Chris Botti, along with James Taylor, opera diva Renee Fleming and the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra. The project is reportedly halfway to completion. Ritenour is currently enjoying a Top 20 smooth jazz hit with "Forget Me Nots" from his latest CD, Smoke N Mirrors.

PAUL TAYLOR & REGINA BELLE ON SMOOTH JAZZ RADIO

Smooth jazz saxophonist Paul Taylor is getting spins at urban radio with the tune "How Did You Know" featuring veteran pop singer and Grammy winner Regina Belle. The smooth jazz star says that it was a label hookup -- he and Belle are both signed to Peak Records -- that facilitated the collaboration. Taylor says that his manager, Andi Howard, was instrumental in inviting Belle to contribute to Taylor's Ladies Choice CD. He said: "Regina Belle, she's a wonderful vocalist I've known of for years. You know, we happen to be on the same label so I don't think it was that hard to really -- you know, my manager, Andi Howard, got her to grace my record with her vocals and it was wonderful." Belle earned a Grammy for her Aladdin soundtrack duet "A Whole New World" with Peabo Bryson. Taylor's Ladies Choice debuted at Number One on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Albums chart.

ZIGGY MARLEY DEBUTS ON PODSHOW WITH NEW RELEASE

PodShow, the #1 New Media Network, announced today that music superstar Ziggy Marley has released the single "Into the Groove" from his second solo album Love is My Religion, on the Podsafe Music Network (PMN), supporting the release with a rare, in-depth interview with PodShow power couple, Dawn and Drew. With this release on the PMN, Marley is enabling thousands of podcasters to play the track on their shows for free, supporting the free licensing of music to the podcasting community and creating millions of 'spins' with audiences
around the globe.

In conjunction with the release, Marley granted an exclusive interview on PodShow's award winning daily show, the Dawn and Drew Show. In the interview, Marley elaborated on his vision of the future of the music business. "Close in the future...music's gonna be free. I make music at home ... I don't need a big expensive marketing budget. Touring is the way to make money with music today." PodShow's PMN has already revolutionized how music is used in online programming. The company's approach fits Marley's philosophy, enabling podcasters to freely use his mix in their shows; a relationship that benefits the show producer, the artist ... and,
above all, the fans.

"Ziggy is a rare combination of musical talent and industry vision," said PodShow CEO and Co founder Ron Bloom. "He is one of a new breed of artists who are blazing a trail and finding innovative ways to reach their fans and new audiences outside the traditional label system. Producers and fans love having him on the SHOW!"

"Ziggy's interview with Dawn and Drew adds an extra element to his music," added Adam Curry, President and Co founder of PodShow. "Releasing his material to be shared by podcasters with audiences worldwide is a huge endorsement for our Network. I am very appreciative of Dawn and Drew, as well as the Marley family for adding their magic to PodShow and the PMN."

By releasing his music on PodShow's PMN, Marley's hit will be available for podcasters to use free and legally, simply for reporting their use. This free-use license is revolutionizing the music industry by enabling artists to get literally millions of spins, or plays, often far exceeding the exposure they could get on traditional radio. The PMN has become the destination for artists, labels and producers seeking to go beyond the traditional system to connect with their fans. The network features songs that range from legends such as James Brown to new superstars such as Death Cab for Cutie and has supplied music to over 10,000 shows.

Click http://dawnanddrew.podshow.com to hear the interview now. Audiences can listen to Ziggy Marley's song, "Into the Groove" for free at PodShow.com/Music Shows featuring PodSafe music can be found at http://www.podshow.com/music. The Podsafe Music Network, (PMN) is the leading site for discovery of music from new and legendary artists. Experiencing over 250 million spins in its first 12 months, the PMN features music from thousands of artists ranging from the newest independent artists to the hottest pop stars to the legendary masters of soul; streamed music available to any PodShow user; an archive of music providing tools for musicians and podcasters; and a platform to create, promote and sell tracks for up and coming artists looking to gain a larger audience.

NEW JAZZ RELEASES FOR JUNE 12, 2007

Aggrolites - Reggae Hit La (Sony)
Alejandro Franov - Khali (3D)
Anders Widmark - Hymn (Universal )
Andy Milne - Dreams and False Alarms (Songlines)
Andy Summers - Synaesthesia (Times Square Records)
Ar Men Trio - Vol. 1 (Art&Suono )
Bob Florence - You Will Be My Music (MAMA Records)
Bob Florence / Annet Sanders - You Will Be My Music (Maa)
Bohemia Big Band - Glenn Miller & Count Basie 100 (Multisonic Records )
Boots Randolph - A Whole New Ballgame (Zoho Music )
Carol Sloane - Dearest Duke (Arbors)
Cecchetto Roberto / Maier Giovanni - Blues Connotation (Art&Suono )
Cinematic Orchestra - Ma Fleur (Domino Recording Company USA (USA))
Dave Koz - At the Movies (Capital/EMI)
Diane Hubka - Diane Hubka Goes To The Movies (18th & Vine)
Diane Hubka - Goes To the Movies (18th & Vine )
Dick Sisto - Soul Searching (ear x-tacy)
Dmitri Kolesnik - Five Corners (Challenge Records)
Dream Band / Ki / John Sheridan - Swing is Still the King (Arbors Records)
Emilie Claire Barlow - Very Thought Of You ( )
Enders Room - Hotel Alba (Inu)
Enrico Pieranunzi - Live In Japan (CamJazz)
Eric Vloeimans - Gatecrashin' (Challenge Records)
Essence - Dancing In The Rain: Best Of (Anagram (UK) )
Faya - She Is On (Universal)
Gandhi U.T. / Maier G. / Succi A - Three Lines (Art&Suono )
Goloubev Y / Sirkis A. / Venier G. - Intermezzo (Art&Suono )
Hatf / Peplowski / Carol Sloane - Dearest Duke (Arbors Records)
Hi-Fly Orchestra - Sambooglaoo (Ajabu )
Hiromi - Futarino Kobune (Tokuma)
Imani Winds - Josephine Baker-A Life Of Le Jazz Hot! (Koch Classics)
J.Dee - Tippin' On the Edge Of Funky (NuGroove Records)
James Booker - Manchester 77' (Document Records)
Jazz Orches / Pete McGuinness - First Flight (Summit Records)
Jef Neve (Trio) - Nobody Is Illegal (Universal)
Johannes Enders - Hotel Alba (Intuition Music)
John Barrowman - Aspects Of Lloyd Webber (Jay Records)
John Sheridan - Swing Is Still The King (Arbors)
Karl Latham - Resonance (Dropzone Jazz)
Karl Seglem - New North (Ozella Music)
Kim Hoorweg - Kim Is Back (Universal/Verve )
Koop - Waltz For Koop (Sony Music Distribution (Sweden) )
Lanfranco Malaguti - Gola Spiegata ( )
Lauren Bach - Take A Little Time (Beatworkz Music) - CD Single
Ludovic Beier - Chilltimes (Chant Du Monde Fr.)
Mamasita - Per Buona Sorte (Pioneer)
Manteca - Onward! ( )
Maurizio Acoustic Jazz 4tet Pagnutti - Shuffle That Ruff (Art&Suono )
Mike DiRubbo - New York Accent: Live At The Kitano (Cellar Live)
Mike DiRubbo - New York Accent (Cellar Live)
Mike Pardew - Transgression (Afan Music)
Monica Borrfors - Slow Fox (BMG Entertainment )
Nguyen Le - Homescape (Amv)
Nils Landgren - Creole Love Call (HighNote)
Odwalla - Live At Musica Bocche ( )
ON3 - Guess What? (Challenge Records)
ON3 / John Patitucci - Guess What? (Challenge Records)
Patrik Boman - Seven Piece Machine (BMG Entertainment )
Pete McGuiness Jazz Orchestra ( - First Flight (Summit Records)
Peter Nordahl Trio - Look Of Love (BMG Entertainment )
Robb Benson - Collection Of Songs I Forgot To Tell You About (Roam Records)
Rune Carlsson - 7 Footprints To Heaven (Arietta )
Rune Gustafsson - Guldkorn (Metronome )
Sambalanco Trio - Samblues (Bomba Records )
Seiji Tada The Most - Re: Mark (3D)
Spyro Gyra - Best Of / 20th / Eco (Grp (Verve))
Spyro Gyra - Good To Go-Go (Heads Up Records)
Spyro Gyro - Good To Go-Go (Heads Up)
Stephen Pollock - Songs of the Heart (Alanna Records)
Stockholm Jazzbeat Project - Stockholm Jazzbeat Project (Cop International)
Stockholm Jazzbeat Project - Stockholm Jazz Beat Project (Cop International )
Struber Z'Tett - Les Noces De Dada - Music Of Frank Zappa (Chant Du Monde Fr.)
Struber Z'tett - Les Noces De Dada: Music Of Frank Zappa (Chant du Monde )
Sylvia Vrethammar - Faller For Dig (Universal )
T-Square - 33 (Sony Bmg)
Trio Toykeat - One Night In Tampere (EMI/Blue Note)
Tuck & Patti - Untitled (Universal)
U.T. Gandhi - Belfagor (Art&Suono )
Various Artists - Late Night Rendezvou (Rendezvous Ente)
Various Artists - Aloha Ea V.1 (Tokuma)
Various Artists - Jazzland Community (Universal)
Various Artists - Jazz In Paris: 100's Most Beautiful Melodies (Universal)
Wanya Morris - Unreleased-The Mix Tape (Avex)
Waza - Inizio (Cdn)
We All Love Ella - We All Love Ella: Celebrating The Fi (Universal)

RAMSEY LEWIS JOINS SMOOTH JAZZ 105.9 WJZW

Jazz musician Ramsey Lewis is bringing his morning show to Smooth Jazz 105.9 WJZW Washington beginning Tuesday, June 19.

“Ramsey Lewis is truly a legend in the entertainment industry,” said WJZW Program Director Steve Allan. “When an opportunity like this presents itself you have to grab it. Ramsey will bring a fresh, new perspective to Washington morning radio.”

Lewis and his co-host Karen Williams will originate their show from their home base in Chicago, where he’s hosted mornings for ten years. Current WJZW morning co-host Charlie Maxx will continue to anchor the local side of the daily broadcast.

Lewis remarked, “I may have been born in Chicago, but DC has always been close to my heart. I’m thrilled to be part of a station that reflects the vibrancy and diversity of the nation’s capital, and I can’t wait to start helping the station’s audience start their days off on the right beat.”

According to Allan: “Who better personifies the sound of Smooth Jazz than Ramsey Lewis? He not only lives the sound – he helped create it and his passion for the music will make his show a must listen every morning.”

ROCCO VENTRELLA - GIVE ME THE GROOVE

A native of the South of Italy, Rocco Ventrella grew up in Bari, on the Adriatic coast. Rocco began playing saxophone at age fourteen, inspired by jazz records his father had given him; for over twenty years, Rocco honed his chops by playing with the Big Band “J.S.O.” of his hometown Bari where he appeared with an impressive list of artists such as: Lee Konitz, Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis, Benny Bailey, Chet Baker, Ernie Wilkins, Art Farmer, Tony Scott, Dizzy Gillespie, Bob Mintzer and other collaborators including keyboard wizard Renato Falaschi.

Ventrella developed a smooth soulful style that is a benchmark for European smooth-jazz saxophone players. A combination of jazz improvisation and R&B, it forms a bridge between late 70s jazz fusion and mid 80s jazz pop.

In recent years, he fell in love with Smooth Jazz and began writing and recording to explore this new musical style. Rocco's recent mini-CD, Tribute To Grover Washington, Jr. (in memory of the late, great saxophone player), brought him to the attention of American producer Bruce Nazarian (Anita Baker, Millie Scott, the Automatix), and an international alliance was born!

Give Me The Groove is a unique global collaboration, combining Rocco from Italy, longtime friend Renato Falaschi from France, and producer/multi-instrumentalist Nazarian from the USA in a smooth-yet-funky showcase for Rocco's performing and writing talents.

The resulting CD has taken internet radio by storm! After hearing an early copy of the CD, Jimi King, Smooth Jazz Programme Director of www.SKY.fm voted “Soulful Strut” as his Number One Smooth Jazz Track in the 2006 year-end countdown, placed two additional Rocco tracks in the top 25 including “Alleria,” and Rocco's soulful reworking of “Feel Like Makin' Love.”

King said, “In these days of digital downloading, where the listener can pick and choose what tracks they want, it's rare to find a CD that offers enough quality material to make its purchase worthwhile. This is one such CD.”

One listen, and Rocco will give you the groove, as he has done countless others.

TEENA MARIE & HOWARD HEWITT IN CONCERT

Teena Marie and Howard Hewitt will be in concert at the Dell East (in Philadelphia) on Saturday, June 16. The concert is a benefit concert presented by the Family of the Dell East, the facility’s volunteer advisory council. Funds raised will be ultimately used to help pay for capital improvements at the venue. Tickets are now on sale for this concert only at the Dell East box office, all Ticketmaster outlets, Don Doo’s Shop, Webb’s Department Store, and the Philadelphia Hair Company. Reserved Tickets are $55, $44, and $36. Call the Dell East box office at (215) 685-9560 for more information.

CESARIA EVORA TOUR DATES

Cesaria Evora will perform the following concerts: June 8 at Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles CA, June 9 at San Francisco Jazz Festival in San Francisco CA, June 10 at Mountain Winery in Saratoga CA, June 11 at Royal Theatre in Victoria BC, June 12 at Vancouver International Jazz Festival in Vancouver BC, June 15 at Winspear Centre for Music in Edmonton AB, June 16 at Pabst Theatre in Milwaukee WI, June 17 at Ravinia in Highland Park IL, June 19 at Ann Arbor Summer Festival in Ann Arbor MI, June 22 at Filene Center in Vienna VA, June 23 at Berklee Performance Center in Boston MA, June 24 at Calvin Theatre in Northampton MA, June 26 at Carnegie Hall in New York NY, June 27 at Hart Theatre in Albany NY, June 28 at Roy Thomson Hall in Toronto ON, June 30 at Ottawa International Jazz Festival in Ottawa Canada, July 2 at Festival International de Jazz de Montreal in Montreal QC.

‘WE ALL LOVE ELLA: CELEBRATING THE FIRST LADY OF SONG’ RELEASED

An all-star vocal tribute to Ella Fitzgerald, The First Lady of Song, by today’s pop, jazz, blues and R&B greats. The CD features Michael Buble, Natalie Cole, Etta James, Chaka Kahn, Gladys Knight, Diana Krall, k.d.lang, Queen Latifah, Ledisi, Dianne Reeves, Linda Ronstadt, Stevie Wonder and Lizz Wright. Dubbed “The First Lady of Song,” Ella Fitzgerald was the most popular female jazz singer in the United States for more than half a century. In her lifetime, she won 13 Grammy awards and sold over 40 million albums. Her catalog continues to be as popular as ever and her iconic stature is undiminished.

Album tracks:
1. A-Tisket, A-Tasket – Natalie Cole
2. Lullaby Of Birdland – Chaka Kahn
3. The Lady Is A Tramp – Queen Latifah
4. Dream A Little Dream Of Me – Diana Krall & Hank Jones
5. (You’ll Have To Swing It) Mr. Paganini – Natalie Cole & Chaka Kahn
6. Oh, Lady Be Good! – Diana Reeves
7. Reaching For The Moon – Lizz Wright
8. Blues In The Night – Ledisi
9. Miss Otis Regrets – Linda Ronstadt
10. Someone TO Watch Over Me – Gladys Knight
11. Do Nothin’ Till You Hear From Me – Etta James
12. Angel Eyes – k.d. lang
13. Too Close For Comfort – Michael Buble
14. You Are The Sunshine Of My Life – Ella Fitzgerald & Stevie Wonder
15. Airmail Special – Nikki Yanofsky

BEBEL GILBERTO TOUR DATES RESCHEDULED

Bebel Gilberto has rescheduled some tour dates for San Francisco, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Toronto as a result of a foot injury. Dates are as follows:

June 17 – Los Angeles, CA @ El Rey
June 18 – San Francisco, CA @ Bimbo’s
June 19 – San Francisco, CA @ Bimbo’s
June 24 – Chicago, IL @ Parl West
June 27 – Toronto, ON @ Mod Club

CHILL WITH MINDI ABAIR RADIO SHOW PREMIERES

Mindi Abair has now officially taken over as host for the nationally syndicated "Chill" radio show. It was formerly "Chill With Chris Botti". Mindi co-hosted with Chris for the month of April, and Chris Botti officially passed the torch to Mindi at the beginning of the May. It's now "Chill With Mindi Abair”. Listen for Mindi on your local smooth jazz station, and check out the new website for the show http://www.chillwithmindiabair.com.


Mindi's upcoming tour dates...

6/15/07
Sacramento, CA
Guzzetta Grove
500 Leisure Lane
Sacramento, CA 95815

6/22/07
Newport Beach, CA
Hyatt Regency Newport Beach
1107 Jamboree Road
Newport Beach, Ca 92660

6/23/07
Big Bear, CA
JazzTrax Big Bear Jazz Festival
Big Bear Ski Resort
43101 Goldmine Drive, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315
Jazztrax.com

6/24/07
Temecula, CA
Thornton Winery
32575 Rancho California Road
Temecula, CA 92008
(Kyle Eastwood will be opening act)
www.summerjazzseries.com

7/27/07
Stockton, CA
Bob Hope (Fox) Theatre
242 E. Main St., Stockton, CA 95202

7/28/07
Las Vegas, NV
Jazz Under the Stars

8/5/07
Seattle, WA
Seattle Station Jazz Festival

8/14/07
Boston, MA
Scullers Jazz Club
Double Tree Guest Suites
400 Soldiers Field Rd, Boston, MA 02134

8/15/07
New York, NY
Spirit Cruise Ship
Pier 63-Chelsea Piers
West Side Highway and 23rd St., NY, NY

8/16,17/07
Hollywood, FL
Jazziz Bistro
5751 Seminole Way
Hollywood, FL 33314
next to the Hard Rock Hotel

8/18/07
Melbourne, FL
King Center For The Performing Arts
3865 North Wickham Rd.
Melbourne, FL 32935

SLY AND TE FAMILY STONE TO APPEAR AT 41ST MONTREUX JAZZ FESTIVAL

The legendary Sly Stone and his big extended family are back. Combining rock and funk, the group and its leader made a huge impact on the late sixties. Having retired from the scene for over twenty years, they've now gotten back on the road. We don't know yet as to when exactly they'll perform, but keep checking back hear for updates.

HERB ALPERT'S 'RISE' REMASTERED & EXPANDED

Herb Alpert's celebrated music career began over four decades ago with over 75 million in records sold to date. Alpert's versatile talent is absolutely legendary and his myriad credits encompass triumphs as a superstar trumpeter, bandleader, producer, composer, arranger and vocalist. In 1962, Alpert and Jerry Moss co-founded A&M Records, long the world's leading-and largest-independently owned label with releases by the likes of The Police, Sheryl Crow and Quincy Jones. Immediately after forming the label, he introduced the Tijuana Brass phenomenon, which propelled him and the A&M establishment to global fame.

Alpert's artistic comeback in the late 1970s began with the release of "Rise," a downtempo dance single that departed from Alpert's signature Tijuana Brass sound. Climbing to number one on the charts, becoming the biggest hit of his career, it was met with such acclaim that Alpert and his recording team decided to craft an entire album around the new, laidback disco sounds of the single, and Rise the album was born in 1979. Mirroring the success of the single, the album went to the top of the charts, winning a Grammy and revitalizing Alpert's already two-decade long career. The latest release in the Herb Alpert Signature Series, Rise has been repackaged and re-mastered with all new trimmings. The reissue includes "Aranjuez (Mon Amour)," a straight-ahead boogie with Spanish themes and "Rotation," a precursor to the Italo-house movement. After years of being out of print, this classic has finally gotten the respect it deserves, and music history class is now in session on a dance floor near you

NICOLA CONTE TOUR DATES

Nicola Conte
June 23 - Tokyo (Japan) @ Club Air with Tatsuo Sunaga on tour (DJ show)
June 24 - Osaka (Japan) @ Noon with Tatuo Sunaga on tour (DJ show)
July 5 - Nagoya (Japan) @ Blue Note (live show)
July 6 - Osaka (Japan) @ Blue Note (live show)
July 14 - Budapest (Hungary) @ A38 (live show plus DJ set)
July 15 - Budapest (Hungary) @ A38 (live show)
Nov 10 - London (UK) @ Jazz Cafe (live show)
Nov 11 - London (UK) @ Jazz Cafe (iive show)
Nov 30 - Rome (Italy) @ Micca Club (live show)
Dec 1 - Rome (Italy) @ Micca Club (live show)
Feb 1 - Treviso (Italy) @ Asha (live show)
Mar 22 - Sofia (Bulgaria) @ Magazine One (live show)

BOBBY CALDWELL TOUR DATES

June 27, 2007
Bobby Caldwell Show
CD101.9 Smooth Cruise
Pier 63 - Chelsea Piers, West Side Hwy & 23rd St. NYC

July 13, 2007
Bobby Caldwell Show
Hyatt Newporter
1107 Jamboree Road, Newport Beach, CA

July 14, 2007
Bobby Caldwell Show
Thornton Winery
32575 Rancho California Rd.
Temecula, CA 92589

July 20, 2007
Bobby Caldwell Show
Soiled Dove
7401 E. 1st. Ave.
Denver, CO 80230

July 21, 2007
Bobby Caldwell Show
Smooth Jazz 107.5 WJZZ
Smooth Jazz Under the Stars 6th Anniversary Celebration)
Mablehouse - Barnes Amphitheater
5239 Floyd Rd.
Mableton,GA. 30126

August 4, 2007
Bobby Caldwell Show
Jazz on the River
Elizabeth Park - Trenton, Michigan
Free Admission

August 9, 2007
Bobby Caldwell Show
Lobero Theatre
33 East Conon Perdido St.
Santa Barbara,CA. 93101

August 25, 2007
Bobby Caldwell and The Reno Jazz Orchestra
Big Band Show)
Hawkins Amphitheater at Bartley Ranch
6000 Bartley Ranch Road,
Reno Nevada 89511

August 27, 2007
Bobby Caldwell and The Reno Jazz Orchestra
(Big Band Show)
Sand Harbor State Park Amphitheater
Hwy 28th
Incline Village, NV 89451

Aug. 31, 2007
Bobby Caldwell and the Smooth Summer All-Stars
Smooth Jazz Summer Nights
Free Concert - come join the fun!
Showtime: 7:30PM
LOCATION:Great Plaza
Columbus Blvd. at Market Street
Philadelphia PA 19106

MARIO BIONDI TOUR DATES

Mario Biondi and the High Five Quintet
Live Show in Italy...
June 8 - Taormina (CT) @ Teatro Antico (w/the Duke Orchestra)
June 23 - Cattalica (RN) Arena della Regina (w/the Duke Orchestra)
June 26 - Bollate (Milan) @ Villa Arconati
June 27 - Stra (Venice) @ Villa Pisani with Special Guest Dionne Warwick
June 30 - RAvello (SA) @ Ravello festival (w/the Duke Orchestra)
July 6 - Marciana Marina (Isola D'Elba) @ Area spettacoli (w/the High Five
Quintet)
July 9 - Spinetta Marengo (AL) Parco della Musica (w/the Duke Orchestra)
July 12 - Firenze @ Piazzale Michelangelo (w/the Duke Orchestra)
July 13 - Udine @ Castello di Udine (w/the Duke Orchestra)
July 14 - Brescia @ Piazza della Loggia (w/the Duke Orchestra)
July 15 - Benevento @ Piazza Castello (w/the High Five Quintet)
July 19 - Genova @ Arena del Mare c/o Porto Antico (w/the High Five
Quintet)
July 22 - Carrara @ Teatro delle Cave di Marmo di Carrara (w/the Duke
Orchestra)
July 23 - Roma @ Auditorium Cavea (w/the Duke Orchestra)
July 25 - Monforte D'Alba (CN) @ Monfortin Jazz (w/the High Five Quintet)
July 31 - Macerata @ Sferistero (w/the Duke Orchestra)

Other upcoming European concerts include...
June 11 - Paris @ La Cigale (w/the High Five Quintet)
July 18 - Nice @ Jazz Festival (w/the High Five Quintet)
July 20 - Biarritz @ Jazz Festival (w/the High Five Quintet)

CALGARY JAZZ FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES LINEUP

The “New” Calgary Jazz Festival has announced it’s headline acts for the 2007 event, slated to run June 19-24 at various locations in the city. Offering an eclectic lineup that ventures into world, contemporary, funk and blues from every corner of the globe, there’s something for everyone.
Below is a listing of artists sent out in a newsletter from festival organizers this past weekend:

Tuesday, June 19
NoName Jazz Sextet CANTOS
Saxophonist Alexandre Côté and drummer Ugo Di Vito lead this hot young Montreal group. Their compositions are influenced by sixties Hard Bop.

Mr. Something Something The Auburn
Juno nominees, chart topping recordings, and energetic live shows, the ‘Mr. Sum Sum’ afro-funk collective is a guaranteed good time.

The October Trio. Beat Niq
Vancouver Jazz Fest’s Galaxie Rising Stars Award winners deliver up a tight show of everything from intimate, subtle renderings to blistering grooves like no others. Evan Arntzen (saxophones), Josh Cole (bass), and Dan Gaucher (drums) are claimed as that city’s most creative musicians, but we won’t forget Dan’s strong Calgary roots.

ZMF Trio CANTOS
National Jazz Awards violinist Jesse Zubot (aka Zubot & Dawson) presents his latest cutting edge jazz project with Toronto drummer Jean Martin and the infamous American bassist Joe Fonda. Blurring the lines between contemporary improvisation, composition and old school free jazz, it’s always an incredible performance. www.dripaudio.com

Wednesday, June 20th
Elmer Ferrer Band Wild Rose Brewery
While being trained in classical guitar styles at Havana’s famed National School of Arts, Elmer saw a bootleg copy of the Armerican movie Crossroads and decided he wanted to play the blues. He secretly studied electric guitar until the same school that denied him his desire recognized his talent and hired him to teach at the new ‘Department of Electric Guitar’ Now widely recognized as Cuba’s best on the axe, Ferrer adds high energy Afro-Cuban flair to the blues. www.elmerferrer.com

Rollanda Lee and The Canadian Hot Stars Quincy’s
The original ‘Dixie Chick’ has entertained audiences all over the world.. Her own seven piece Canadian Hot All Stars (including Calgary trumpeter Al Muirhead) swing with traditional 1920’s and 30’s jazz New Orleans style.

Christine Jensen Quartet Beat Niq
The Montreal arranger and saxophonist has been labeled “one of the most important Canadian composers of her generation”, by Globe and Mail jazz critic, Mark Miller. Her quartet are also Canadian jazz all stars - Dave Restivo on piano, Fraser Hollins on bass, and Greg Ritchie on drums.

Community Performance Series with Mark Sonksen
Hillhurst Sunnyside Community Association 8 pm
Chicago bassist and composer joins Calgary favourites Gerry Hebert on sax, Keith Smith on guitar, and Jon May on drums in this version of the monthly series for serious jazz listeners.

Thursday, June 21
Pierre Dørge & The New Jungle Orchestra with Brandi Disterheft Cantos
Guitarist Pierre leads a wild, ten piece Danish ensemble that combines swing, bop, and Euro-classicism in rich, bursting, dadaistic freestyle harmonies. Definitely not easy listening, but a once in a lifetime experience. National Jazz Awards Rising Star Brandi Disterheft “has the same lope or rhythmical pulse as my late bass player Ray Brown. She is what we call serious” says Oscar Peterson.

Dhafer Youssef with Jatinder Thakur and the Divine Shadows String Quartet, and Amir Amiri. Cathedral Church of the Redeemer
Tunisian-born singer and oud virtuoso Dhafer Youssef’s haunting, Sufi inspired music has captured the hearts and minds of audiences across Europe. Hailed by The Guardian as world music’s most exciting new star, Youssef draws on the evocative sound of his Islamic heritage, combining it with new directions in European jazz to create a distinctive and atmospheric sound. Accompanied by Indian virtuoso tabla player Jatinder Thakur and the Divine Shadows Strings, (aka the Koehne Quartet), this will truly be a memorable performance. www.dhaferyoussef.com
Amir Amiri immigrated to Canada from Iran with little more than his hammer dulcimer ten years ago. Since then, he has become one of our most cherished musical resources, filling concert halls and intimate clubs across North America with his own spiritual compositions. Joining him is Edmonton’s award winning drummer and percussionist Sandro Dominelli

Jan Verwey, with Jillian Lebeck and Paul Rushka Beat Niq
One of the few who dared to play the chromatic harmonica in jazz, he created his own style. This Dutch innovator is accompanied by bassist Paul Rushka and Jillian Lebeck, one of Canada’s most dynamic and innovative vocalist/pianist/composers.
www.jillianlebeck.com

Thursday & Friday June 21 & 22 Ironwood, Southwood United Church
Matt Masters sings the standards with Terra Hazelton and and the Valleau Village People.
The country crooner has found his true voice in jazz with Calgary expatriate Terra Hazelton (of Jeff Healey fame) and the Valleau Village People (who had to come up with this name to avoid contractual obligations).

Friday, June 22
Joshua Redman and Kris Davis The Gateway Lounge
One of the most compelling and fearless saxophone voices in jazz. His latest cd, ‘Back East’ pushes boundaries and stimulates his creative juices in the classic acoustic trio format, with bassist Reuben Rogers and Antonio Sanchez on drums.
Son of recently deceased legend Dewey Redman, Joshua burst onto the jazz scene in 1993 with his self-titled debut cd and Wish. Both sold over a quarter of a million copies combined—unheard of in jazz. Although his muscular swing and earthy ballads may evoke Sonny Rollins, Redman has proven himself a wide-ranging musician and a fearless voice at the vanguard of contemporary music. Michael Brecker simply called him “a genius.” www.joshuaredman.com

Jens Winther Euro Quintet Cantos
Denmark’s leading trumpeter brings his hot, up-tempo band and arrangements to Canada. Internationally renown, Winther’s talent has been recognised with numerous awards and prizes for his outstanding contribution to the world of jazz as a player, composer and bandleader.

Tobey Foyeh and Orchestra Africa and Lynn Olagundaye and Guerrilla Funk Monster Quincy’s on Seventh
Tobey first came to America from Nigeria touring with Hugh Masekela. Originally trained in traditional music, he went on to Bostons’ Berklee College and now composes, arranges, and produces complex pieces featuring African instruments and back-up singers and dancers in costume with electronic keyboards and guitars. Their music expresses social situations in Africa, the people, and their joys and pains.

Lynn Olagundaye and the Guerrilla Funk Allstars are all Canadian born, but they present the rhythm of their roots in full on rhythm and blues hip hop party to rock the house.

Kellylee Evans The Ironwood
Delivering a rich, smooth but unique vocal style through jazz, soul, R & B, and blues is garnering Kellylee world wide attention, including that of Quincy Jones, Al Jarreau, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Kurt Elling and other judges at the Thelonius Monk International Jazz Vocals Competition. She earned the silver medal out of a field of 160. One to watch. www.kellyleeevans.com.

Saturday June 23
James Hunter The Gateway Lounge
‘People Gonna Talk’ about James Hunter’s Calgary debut. Discovered by Van Morrison, James’ songwriting craft and impassioned performances have turned him into today’s hottest act in Roots and Blues. www.jameshuntermusic.com

Vijay Iyer Quartet with Rudresh Mahanthappa Ironwood
Cutting edge jazz from two leading innovators at the heart of the New York scene. Vijay is a forceful, rhythmically invigorating performer who with a unique sense for compositional balance. Described as “one of the most original and accomplished young pianists in years’. He often works with saxophonist Rudresh, who was just awarded a Guggenheim Fellowship for ‘distinguished achievement in the past and exceptional promise for future accomplishment’ in composition and performance. Both men draw on their Asian heritage and American influence to create dynamic, stunning performances that could well be one of the best shows of the festival. www.vijay-iyer.com, www.rudreshm.com

UMO Jazz Orchestra Quincy’s on Seventh
Arguably one of the best big bands in the world is from Finland. Continuous support by the city of Helsinki and the ministry of education has helped keep UMO together for over thirty years, record 23 cds and have a repertoire of 1200 compositions. www.umo.fi

Marianne Trudel Quintet Cantos
The award-winning pianist from Montreal offers a rich quilt of sonic colours seemlessly stitched together with a keen sense of compositional design and deft improvisational gestures. Drawing equally on the classical, jazz and free improv idioms, she cleverly balances these influences out on a razor’s edge. With Rob Mosher (soprano sax, oboe - New York), Jonathan Stewart (tenor sax - Kingston, Ontario), Morgan Moore (bass - Montreal) and Kelby MacNayr (drums - Victoria, BC). www.mariannetrudel.com.

Barry Romberg Beat Niq
Juno Award-winning drummer mixes contemporary with free jazz in a powerful performance. With supreme saxophonist Kirk Macdonald, trumpeter Kevin Turcotte and Rich Brown on bass. www.barryromberg.com

Sunday June 24
Antibalas Afrobeat Orchestra with The Bad Plus The Gateway Lounge
A double header dance party featuring the politically-charged, funk-driven Antibalas and the musically controversial Bad Plus. The eleven piece Afrobeat Orchestra incorporates elements of jazz, funk, dub, improvised music, and traditional drumming from Cuba and West Africa with strong lyrics in a driving beat.

The Bad Plus is a midwest American collective that challenged the definition of jazz trio. Bassist Reid Anderson, pianist Ethan Iverson, and drummer David King mixed their own diverse compositions with covers of rock bands like Nirvana and Aphex Twin. Favoring group improvisation over individual solos, eschewing all jazz cliches, The Bad Plus rip into each set with precision, dynamics and reckless abandon, attracting new audiences to jazz.
www.antibalas.com. www.thebadplus.com

Francois Carrier Cantos
An inexhaustible improviser, Carrier pushes boundaries of creative evolution with his saxes and some of the biggest names in the business. His latest cd is a 1999 recording of him with the late Dewey Redman. He appears for a Sunday afternoon performance in Calgary with drummer Michel Lambert and French bassist Jean Jacques Avenel. www.francoiscarrier.com
Coco Zhao The Auburn Saloon

Avant-garde crooner from China charms all with his Sinatra-style performance. Out of a small town in the Hunan province of China comes the exotic Dream Situation. Zhao challenges the stereotypical jazz vocalist image, singing the lyrics in Chinese, but transcending cultures with contemporary American jazz idioms. Supported by arranger and violinist Peng Fei and the Possicobilities band http://homepage.mac.com/cjlinkus/possicobilities/Menu82.html
For more info visit www.calgaryjazz.com

JOAN ARMATRADING HITS #1 BILLBOARD BLUES CHART WITH NEW RELEASE ‘INTO THE BLUES’

Pioneering rock, pop, R&B and now blues musician Joan Armatrading has debuted the Billboard Blues Chart at #1 with her new project for 429 Records, "Into The Blues." The record raced to the top in its first week in release (May 1) also landing at the #2 slot on the iTunes Blues Chart. This marks the first time in the artist's 30-year career that she hit the #1 spot on any U.S. chart. Dates for an extensive summer tour of the United States and Canada have been announced as well. The tour kicks off May 29th in Toronto and travels across the country with her band thru mid-July (current tour schedule below).

"Armatrading's blues...matched to the passionate dignity of her voice... simmer sweetly," says Jim Farber of the New York Daily News. "Into The Blues" is receiving some of the best reviews of Joan's prolific career. Fans and critics are responding with raves over her distinctive take on the classic genre. USA Today's Brian Mansfield added the track "Baby Blue Eyes" to his April 24th "Playlist" column showcasing extraordinary guitar work in recent popular music.

A few other quotes of note:
"'Into The Blues'...is her sojourn into that well-worn territory, and Armatrading's take is wide and distinctive and stretches the parameters of what we consider the blues." -- Gary Graff, Billboard Magazine

"It's also a guitar album: her blues chops...would give Robert Cray a serious run..." -- Roy Kasten, Amazon.com Editorial

Armatrading will tour North America with a full band this summer having just come off a very well-received tour of Europe that included a triumphant week-long residency at London's famed jazz club, Ronnie Scott's, and culminated in a concert in the revered Royal Albert Hall. Joining her will be her stellar back-up band consisting of bassist Scott Firth, keyboardist Spencer Cozens and Gary Foote on drums. Complete tour dates attached.

429 Records -- the label of the recently acclaimed release "Endless Highway - The Music of The Band" -- is a unit of the Savoy Label Group (SLG). SLG is the North American unit of CME (Columbia Music Entertainment), the oldest music company in Japan. The Savoy Label Group is led by Steve Vining. CME is headed by Chairman Strauss Zelnick, founder of Zelnick Media. Zelnick Media owns interests in and manages an array of media companies.

JOAN ARMATRADING NORTH AMERICAN TOUR 2007

May 29 Toronto, Canada @ The Music Hall
May 30 Rochester, NY @ The German House
May 31 Albany, NY @ Hart Theater
June 1 Ridgefield, CT @ Ridgefield Playhouse
June 2 Elmer, NJ @ Appel Farm Arts & Music Ctr
June 3 Poughkeepsie, NY @ Bardavon 1869 Opera House
June 6 Boston, MA @ Berklee Performance Centre
June 7 Asbury Park, NJ @ Stone Pony
June 8 Huntington, NY @ Inter-Media Arts Center
June 9 Westhampton Beach, NY @ WH Beach Performing Arts
June 11 Alexandria, VA @ The Birchemere
June 12 New York, NY @ World Financial Center Plaza
June 14 Indianapolis, IN @ The Music Mill
June 15 Madison, WI @ Barrymore Theatre
June 16 Chicago, IL @ House of Blues
June 17 St. Paul, MN @ O'Shaughnessy Auditorium
June 19 Austin, TX @ The Glenn
June 20 New Orleans, LA @ House of Blues
June 21 Dallas, TX @ House of Blues
June 22 Santa Fe, NM @ Paolo Soleri Outdoor Amp
June 23 Denver, CO @ Historic Paramount Theatre
June 25 Boulder, CO @ Chautauqua Auditorium
June 26 Aspen, CO @ Belly Up Aspen
June 28 Saratoga, CA @ The Mountain Winery
June 29 Jacksonville, OR @ The Britt Festival
July 1 Los Angeles, CA @ John Anson Ford Theatre
July 2 San Diego, CA @ TBD
July 3 San Francisco, CA @ TBD
July 5 Portland, OR @ Gov. Tom McCall Waterfront
July 7 Courteney, British Columbia @ Vancouver Island Music Fest
July 9 Edmonton, Canada @ Winspear Centre
July 11 Calgary, Alberta @ Knox United Church
July 12 Calgary, Alberta @ Knox United Church
July 14 Durango, CO @ Community Concert Hall (Ft. Lewis College)
July 15 Beaver Creek, CO @ Vilar Center for the Arts

HOUSE OF BLUES DALLAS OPENS

Live Nation, the world's largest live music company, opened the doors on its 11th House of Blues(R) branded venue on May 8 in Dallas, Texas. The new venue, which includes a 1,625 capacity music hall, a 400 seat restaurant, special events facilities, a company store and a Foundation Room consisting of a private lounge and fine dining area for members, establishes an important small size music venue in Dallas, the number six Designated Market Area, or DMA(R), as defined by Nielsen Media Research. The new facility is located in the historic White Swan Building in the heart of downtown Dallas and is an important anchor to the ambitious Victory Park redevelopment project underway in the city. Live Nation also operates and exclusively books the 20,000 capacity Smirnoff Music Centre in Dallas.

Doors opened on the new club this Wednesday, May 8th with an inaugural performance by Dallas-native Erykah Badu. Then on Saturday, May 12th, House of Blues founder and original Blues Brothers member Dan Aykroyd will preside over the club's official grand opening with a special performance by the Blues Brothers Formal Classic Review, with his partner Jim Belushi. Mr. Aykroyd (a.k.a. Brother Elwood) and Mr. Belushi (a.k.a. Blood-brother Zee) will headline an evening that includes performances by Matt Guitar Murphy, Northwestern Guitar Slinger Paul Allen and The Wanda King Blues Band who is led by the daughter of the legendary Texas bluesman Freddie King. Besides an evening of great music, Dan Aykroyd and Jim Belushi will launch the opening festivities with a motorcycle ride including a contingent of riders in the hundreds. Beginning at the Harley Davidson dealership in Garland (1334 W. Centerville Rd.) and cruising to the new venue (2200 N Lamar St in Victory Park), the ride will raise money for needy children in the Dallas area.

This is the 11th House of Blues club in the United States. Other cities with established House of Blues clubs and restaurants include Atlantic City, Anaheim, Chicago, Cleveland, Myrtle Beach, New Orleans, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Orlando and San Diego. Construction is underway on a brand new HOB club in Houston, Texas, the number 10 DMA in the U.S.

Founded in 1992, this dynamic company with soul, spirit and vision was acquired by Live Nation in November of 2006. With 11 branded clubs, including Atlantic City, Anaheim, Chicago, Cleveland, Myrtle Beach, New Orleans, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Orlando, San Diego and Dallas, each House of Blues club features live music, Southern-inspired cuisine in an eclectic environment celebrating the African American cultural contributions of blues music and folk art.

DAVE KOZ & FRIENDS AT THE MOVIES SUMMER TOUR 2007

Dave Koz has added another special guest to the line-up for the Dave Koz and Friends At The Movies Summer 2007 Tour: 19-year-old Razor & Tie recording artist Kelly Sweet. Kelly is currently enjoying a #1 hit at Adult Contemporary radio with "Raincoat," the first single from her 2007 debut album, We Are One. The single is also steadily climbing the Smooth Jazz charts. The tour launches June 3rd in Columbia, MD and wraps up at the Hollywood Bowl in Hollywood, CA on August 19th. Each show on the tour will be a "double feature," with Koz, Sweet and previously announced special guests David Benoit and Phil Perry playing their respective hits during the first half of the show, then joining together on numerous selections from Koz's blockbuster album, At The Movies. Rendezvous recording artist Brian Simpson will play keyboards and serve as Koz's musical director.

Since its January 2007 release, At The Movies, Koz's homage to classic film music, has been at the top of the charts and Dave, a four-time Grammy nominee, has been in demand, appearing on national television shows such as "Good Morning America," "The Tonight Show with Jay Leno," "The Today Show" and "The View," to name a few. At The Movies contains such classics as "Over The Rainbow," "Moon River," "As Time Goes By," "The Way We Were," "The Pink Panther" and "A Whole New World." Guest artists on the album include India.Arie, Anita Baker, Chris Botti, Barry Manilow, Johnny Mathis, Donna Summer and Vanessa Williams.

At 19, Kelly Sweet has already performed over 500 concerts in the U.S., including opening gigs for Paul Simon, Kenny Loggins and Anita Baker. The summer tour with Koz marks her first national tour since the March 2007 release of her acclaimed debut, We Are One. Classically-trained and able to sing in several languages (French, Italian and even Sanskrit), her music conveys a sense of depth, intimacy and sophistication not often heard in today's pop landscape as exemplified by lead single "Raincoat," which Billboard hailed as "a breezy, precocious ballad that displays an impressive vocal range, emotive expression and a vocal equivalent of cool, crush velvet." For more information on Kelly Sweet go to http://www.kelly-sweet.com.

Over the last quarter century, composer and pianist David Benoit has been a passionate musical innovator committed to the exploration of many different art forms on the American landscape. A five-time Grammy nominee for his extraordinary and seminal contributions to contemporary jazz,
Benoit has also embarked on a multi-faceted journey into the classical music world. For more information on David Benoit go to http://www.benoit.com.

Born and raised in East St. Louis, Phil Perry has spent most of his career as one of the most sought-after backing vocalists in the music business. His bright, multi-octave range has played a supporting role on dozens of albums by such acts as Anita Baker, Boz Scaggs, Rod Stewart, Peabo Bryson and George Duke. But he has also distinguished himself through five strong solo albums that have highlighted both his ability to interpret classic soul songs as well as his own songwriting skills. For more information on Phil Perry go to http://www.philperry.net.

Summer concert dates are as follows:
June 3 - +++ Columbia, MD @ Merriweather Post Pavilion
June 8 - ** Albuquerque, NM @ Isleta Casino & Resort Showroom
June 9 - Wendover, NV @ Peppermill Concert Hall
June 10 - Phoenix, AZ @ Celebrity Theatre
June 15 - Chicago, IL @ Chicago Theatre
June 17 - Glenside, PA @ Keswick Theatre
June 21- Grand Prairie, TX @ Nokia Live Theatre
June 22 - El Paso, TX @ Plaza Theatre Performing Arts
June 23- Southfield, MI @ Southfield Civic Center
July 13 - North Kansas City, MO @ Voodoo Lounge @ Harrah's
July 14 - Apple Valley, MN @ Minnesota Zoo Amphitheatre
July 20 - ** Richmond, VA @ Kanawha Plaza
July 21 - ** Winter Park, CO @ Hideaway Park
July 25 - Atlanta, GA @ Chastain Park Amphitheatre
July 27 - Las Vegas, NV @ Pearl Concert Theatre at Palms Casino
July 28 - Temecula, CA @ Thornton Winery
July 29 - Temecula, CA @ Thornton Winery
August 2 - Saratoga, CA @ The Mountain Winery
August 3 - Sacramento, CA @ Radisson Hotel
August 4 - Woodinville, WA @ Chateau St. Michelle
August 5 - Healdsburg, CA @ Rodney Strong Vineyard
August 9 - Cleveland, OH @ Playhouse Square
August 10 - Kettering, OH @ Fraze Pavilion
August 11 - Oyster Bay, NY @ Planting Fields Arboretum
August 17h - San Diego, CA @ Humphrey's By the Bay
August 18 - Concord, CA @ Sleeptrain Pavilion
August 19 - Hollywood, CA @ Hollywood Bowl

+++ David Benoit, Phil Perry and Kelly Sweet will not be appearing on June 3 show

** David Benoit will not be appearing at these shows.

DETROIT JAZZ FESTIVAL ANNOUNCES 28th ANNUAL LABOR DAY WEEKEND EVENT

Detroit International Jazz Festival (DJF) officials unveiled details for its 28th annual Labor Day Weekend extravaganza, which will honor the jazz roots of Detroit and Chicago through a friendly challenge between artists from each city. The '07 festival, billed as "The Rumble in the Great Lakes," will kick off Friday, August 31st, and feature Detroit's internationally-renowned jazz violinist Regina Carter and Chicago's Grammy-award winning jazz pianist and composer Herbie Hancock.

"Detroit and Chicago have produced some of the most prolific and influential jazz artists in the world," said Terri Pontremoli, DJF executive director. "We decided it was high time to highlight the musical contributions of both cities. For years, Chicago and Detroit have hosted competing jazz festivals on the same weekend, so why not have an out-and-out rumble?" Pontremoli added.

DJF officials revealed the full lineup of artists, many of whom have Chicago or Detroit ties such as Herbie Hancock, Kurt Elling (performing with the Wayne State Big Band), Mavis Staples, Otis Clay, Bettye Lavette, The Miracles, Curtis Fuller, Kenny Garrett, Ron Carter and Gerald Wilson.

"The Detroit/Chicago theme also gave us the inspiration to pull together some exciting musical projects like the 50th anniversary celebration of the great Johnny Griffin record, A Blowin' Session," Pontremoli added.

Mack Avenue artists Carl Allen and Rodney Whitaker will present a set with three tenors representing Chicago and Detroit. Nods to Motown include a performance by the Miracles, also celebrating their 50th anniversary, and a tribute to Marvin Gaye by the Michigan State University Big Band through a suite entitled "What's Goin' On?" Don Byron's performance will be centered on the music of Junior Walker.

Officials say fans can also look forward to interesting pairings such as Maria Muldauer with Jim Dapogny's Chicago Ensemble, Wendell Harrison's Chicago Connection and Steve Wood's tribute to Yusef Lateef. There will be a heavy dose of "outsiders" as well, including Dave Brubeck, Patti Austin (who will perform her Avant Gershwin material with the Gerald Wilson Big Band), Medeski Scofield Martin & Wood, Poncho Sanchez, Charles Tolliver, the Brubeck Brothers, Russell Malone, Bill Charlap, Stanley Jordan, Conrad Herwig and the Spanish Harlem Orchestra.

Pontremoli also introduced two new initiatives -- an annual visiting artist residency and a stage dedicated to emerging artists. "It's a thrill to begin the artist-in-residence program with a native Detroiter who also just happens to be a MacArthur prize winner," Pontremoli says of violinist Regina Carter. In addition to teaching at a jazz camp for middle school students under the auspices of Arts League of Michigan this summer, Ms. Carter will play in several different settings on Labor Day weekend: With her quintet, in a duo with Kenny Barron, and as a special guest with the Clayton Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. She'll also perform with students and participate in discussions in the festival's Jazz Talk Tent.

The Here and Now Stage will feature regional musicians and emerging national artists such as vocalist Sachal Vasandani, trumpeter Dominick Farinacci, 14 year-old saxophonist Grace Kelly, and vocalists Chiara Civello and Jennifer Sannon.

Based on the success of '06, the festival will again present a gospel Monday -- this year featuring Mavis Staples and Kim Burrell with Sean Jones, in addition to local gospel groups yet to be announced. Local jazz historians Jim Gallert and Lars Bjorn, buoyed by capacity attendance in the azz Talk Tent last year, are planning a full schedule of panels and meet-the-artist sessions. Herb Boyd, Tony Mowod and Ira Gitler will engage in discussions with national and local artists as well as other radio personalities and jazz writers.

DJF officials also announced other festival features which will include:
-- A family picnic area with daily performances of Hayes Greenfield's
"Jazz-a-ma-tazz," in addition to story tellers and puppets.
-- A hip jazz garden in Campus Martius complete with tables, bars and
large video screens. The video screens will play selections from the
award-winning Jazz Icons series, produced by Reelin' In the Years
Productions. Detroit Jazz Fest is the exclusive site for the world
premiere of the second series of vintage jazz concerts (the first set
premiered at the annual International Association for Jazz Educators
conference). Quincy Jones has called the series "an audio-visual
treasure trove of the music that changed the world."
-- An art gallery tent will feature the Arts League of Michigan's
exhibit Rock My Soul.

In addition to revealing the power-packed artist lineup and new festival features, DJF officials also unveiled one of its longstanding traditions -- the annual festival poster, this year created by Detroit rising artist Darcel Deneau. "Darcel's beautiful piece truly captures the essence of our festival against the beautiful backdrop of Detroit," said Pontremoli. "The poster will definitely add to our promotional efforts and is sure to become a must-have as part of the wonderful collection of posters from years past."

Festival organizers also announced the renewing of an old friendship with the Hotel Pontchartrain, the location of the revered P-Jazz series and Rapa House jam sessions of the past. Fans can look for nightly "after-hours" jam sessions, and a salsa party on Sunday night at the Pontch -- which was announced as the official hotel of the DJF.

As evidence of its commitment to strengthen the educational component of the festival, the DJF has forged partnerships with Wayne State University and Jazz @ Juilliard. The festival is sponsoring visiting artists Conrad Herwig and Sean Jones for Jazz Week at Wayne (July 23-28), and will feature a mini- residency with Juilliard jazz students on Labor Day Weekend. The Michigan School Band and Orchestra and the International Association for Jazz Education will be involved in the high school invitational.

In order to sustain the high quality of the festival and to maintain it as a free event, sponsorships are extremely important to the newly formed non- profit organization. The festival welcomed back significant '06 sponsors such as Chase (Cadillac Square Stage), Carhartt (Pyramid Stage), Ford (Here and Now Stage) and Absopure (Waterfront Stage). Other major sponsors include MGM Casino, MotorCity Casino, Mack Avenue Records, Comcast, DTE Energy, and Big Boy. Budweiser Select is the sponsor of a pre-fest series which will take place Fridays in August at Bert's, Baker's, Cliff Bells and Memphis Smoke and feature some of Detroit's best musicians.

Wayne State University, Art Van, Aqua Fresh and Starbucks will also be sponsoring the festival this year. Both new and returning sponsors understand the value of getting their products and services before Detroit's premier Labor Day Weekend audience, as well as supporting the 28-year tradition that creates cultural tourism for Michigan. "It is great to see organizations step up and support one of the best free jazz festivals in the world," said Gretchen Valade, owner of Mack Avenue Records and main benefactor of the DJF.

Media sponsors in '07 include FOX 2, Detroit Newspaper Partnership, Hour Detroit Magazine, WEMU, WDET, WRCJ and Detroit Public Television. "Detroit Jazz Fest is one of the most dynamic free jazz festivals in the world," Pontremoli added. "We plan to build on that reputation each year and are confident that this season will impress both new and old DJF attendees -- who are among the most informed and enthusiastic jazz audiences anywhere."

BRANFORD MARSALIS TOUR DATES

Brandford Marsalis will perform the following concerts: May 5 at Clarke Atlanta University in Atlanta GA, May 6 at New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in New Orleans LA, May 8 at The Seasons in Yakima WA, May 10-13 at Dimitriou's Jazz Alley in Seattle WA, May 15 at Dakota Jazz Club in Minneapolis MN, May 16 at Paramount Theatre in St. Cloud MN, May 17 at Detroit Orchestra Hall in Detroit MI, May 18 at Wharton Center in E. Lansing MI, June 20 at Town Hall in New York NY, June 21 at International Jazz Festival in Ottawa ON, July 2 at Arts on the Avenue in Philadelphia PA, July 6 at Theatre Maisonneuve in Montreal QC, July 7 at Connecticut State University in Danbury CT, August 8 at Center for the Arts in Jackson WY, August 10 at Dartmouth College in Hanover NH, August 11 at JVC Jazz Fest in Newport RI, September 22 at Family Circle Tennis Center in Charleston SC, October 20 at Trinity University in San Antonio TX, October 26-27 at Lincoln Center in New York NY, November 10 at Fox Cities PAC in Appleton WI, November 17 at Wesleyan College in Rochester NY, January 4 at Scottsdale Center for the Arts in Scottsdale AZ, January 6 at Philharmonic Center in Naples FL, and February 1 at Purchase Center in Purchase NY.W

WAYNE SHORTER TOUR DATES

Wayne Shorter will perform the following concerts: June 21-22 at Concertgebouw in Amsterdam Netherlands, June 27 at Carnegie Hall in New York NY, June 29 at Theatre Maisonneuve in Montreal QC, July 28 at Chapiteau in Marciac France, August 3 at Kurhaus in Wiesbaden Germany, August 5 at International Centre in Harrogate UK, and March 28 at Kimmel Center in Philadelphia PA.

OCEANS’ 13 SOUNDTRACK FEATURES MUSIC FROM PRODUCER DAVID HOLMES

"Music From the Motion Picture Ocean's Thirteen" -- the electrifying score to the upcoming feature film "Ocean's Thirteen" -- will be released by Warner Bros. Records on June 5th, three days before the movie opens nationwide. The film -- a casino heist caper starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Andy Garcia, Don Cheadle, Bernie Mac, Ellen Barkin, and Al Pacino -- is the eagerly awaited third installment in Academy Award-winning director Steven Soderbergh's stylish trilogy, which has captivated and entertained audiences worldwide.

The film's soundtrack was overseen by acclaimed composer and musical innovator David Holmes, who also helmed the soundtracks to "Ocean's Eleven" and "Ocean's Twelve." Where "Twelve" included songs from an eclectic group of international artists, "Thirteen" is dominated by Holmes' playful instrumentals, rooted in '70s-inspired acid-jazz, that match the innately cool aesthetic of the film.

"As a music producer, I never want to repeat myself," Holmes says, "and it's challenging to actually do something completely different every time. 'Thirteen' was tricky because, as with 'Eleven,' the film takes place in Las Vegas, and we had to avoid all the clichés of Vegas but still create this truly original piece. So this one has more of a live feel to it, and it's a lot more quirky. I think it's definitely the most musical score out of all three."

Holmes, a native of Northern Ireland, began his music career as a DJ in Belfast at the age of 15. He released his own critically lauded albums, including 1995's "This Film's Crap: Let's Slash The Seats" and 1997's "Let's Get Killed," before becoming an in-demand producer and re-mixer for such bands as U2, Primal Scream, The Manic Street Preachers, Page and Plant, and Ice Cube. He first collaborated with Soderbergh on the 1998 film "Out of Sight," starring George Clooney and Jennifer Lopez, before going on to score "Ocean's Eleven."

"Steven really makes it feel like a collaboration," Holmes says. "He lets you express yourself and be experimental. And he likes to try new things. Even in these movies, as big and commercial as they are, he's still doing loads of stuff musically that people just wouldn't dream of doing in a movie this size. There's no safety net with him and that makes him an amazing guy to work for in many ways."

Warner Bros. Pictures presents, in association with Village Roadshow Pictures, a Jerry Weintraub/Section Eight Production, "Ocean's Thirteen," starring George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Matt Damon, Andy Garcia, Don Cheadle, Bernie Mac, Ellen Barkin and Al Pacino. Also starring are Casey Affleck, Scott Caan, Eddie Jemison, and Shaobo Qin, with Carl Reiner and Elliott Gould. The film was directed by Steven Soderbergh from a screenplay by Brian Koppelman & David Levien. Jerry Weintraub produced the film, with Susan Ekins, Gregory Jacobs, Frederic W. Brost and Bruce Berman executive producing. The film opens nationwide on June 8. The soundtrack will be available in stores and through all online retailers on June 5th.

The track-listing for "Music From the Motion Picture Ocean's Thirteen" is as follows:
"Not Their Fight"
"11, 12 & 13"
"Benedict Returns"
"Kensington Chump"
"Trapdoor Man"
"Laptops"
"Zippo's"
"S***! S***! S***!"
"Dice Men"
"Diamond Location"
"The Nose"
"Caravan" Performed by Puccio Roelens
"Suite Bergamasque, Claire De Lune, No. 3" Performed by Isao Tomita
"Grand Opening"
"Earthquake"
"Fender Roads"
"Snake Eyes"
"All Sewn Up"
"This Town" Performed by Frank Sinatra
"Soul Town" Performed by The Motherhood