MATT HOLMAN - WHEN FLOODED

The title track of Matt Holman's debut recording, When Flooded, is a nod to Holman's home state of Arizona, and a common road sign there that warns, "Do Not Enter When Flooded". He explains, "it refers to the summer flash floods so common in the area. The first three words had faded on this particular sign, leaving open a world of interpretive possibility. I thought of what a flood can mean in a desert landscape like Arizona, and how much this idea is reflective of the creative process. I also thought about how the effects of a flood can be felt for so long after the waters have receded, something which became painfully affirmed in the wake of Hurricane Sandy. For this piece, I had a great flowing of counterpoint ideas. It is highly organized with short bursts of intense improvisation that reflects the desire we all have at times to break out from systemization into a world of free expression."

The Brooklyn, New York based trumpeter/composer/educator Matt Holman is an artist that has found his world of free expression and creativity, and has been recognized by his peers by being a prized sideman for the likes of Fred Hersch, Kurt Elling, Darcy James Argue (featured on Argue's most recent recording, Brooklyn Babylon), Jon Gordon, Kate McGarry, Matt Ulery, Bob Newhart, Los Amigos Invisibles and The Gregory Brothers. He has also earned national and international performance awards from DownBeat Magazine, the International Trumpet Guild's Jazz Improvisation Competition, the Carmine Caruso International Jazz Trumpet Solo Competition and the National Trumpet Competition. As a member of The BMI Jazz Composers Workshop, Holman most recently won the 13th annual BMI Foundation's Charlie Parker Jazz Composition Prize, and will compose a new work for the Manny Albam Commission in June 2013. Taking inspiration from such diverse influences as Wayne Shorter, Dmitri Shostakovich, and Sigur Ros, Holman has composed works for Marvin Stamm, Ed Soph, David Baker, Marie Speziale, and The National Conservatory of Costa Rica, and was a 2009 ASCAP Young Jazz Composer's Competition winner.

In addition to Darcy James Argue's Secret Society, Holman is an integral part of many of NYC's finest large ensembles/big bands, a genre that is seeing a strong resurgence of late. He is featured on composer Asuka Kakitani's new recording, Bloom (19/8 Records), and also performs with Andrew Rathburn's Large Ensemble, JC Sanford Orchestra, Nathan Parker Smith Large Ensemble and the Noriko Ueda Jazz Orchestra (coincidentally, Darcy, Asuka, Nathan, and Noriko are all previous winners of the BMI Composer's Award). Holman is the artistic director of the New York Youth Symphony Jazz Band.

While Holman performs and records with plenty of small groups, his new album, When Flooded (available on Brooklyn Jazz Underground Records on March 19), showcases the trumpeter/composer utilizing the compositional influence and instrumental colors from his large ensemble experience, tailor-made and fine-tuned for his spry and nimble chamber-jazz group, featuring Mike McGinnis on clarinet & bass clarinet (The Four Bags, Anthony Braxton, Steve Coleman, Lonnie Plaxico), Christopher Hoffman on cello (Marc Ribot,Henry Threadgill, John Ellis, Harry Eisenstadt, Devotchka), Nate Radley on guitar (Loren Stillman, Alan Ferber, Ted Poor, Adam Nussbaum) and Ziv Ravitz on drums and percussion (Lee Konitz, Shai Maestro, Omer Avital, Avishai Cohen). One may take notice that each of the instrument families is represented on this recording: brass, strings, percussion, woodwinds and electronics.

When Flooded opens with "Kindred Spirits", a tune that "came to me shortly after I re-met an old acquaintance after many years of no communication (she is now my wife!)," said Holman. He explains the tune further; "the form and development of musical material throughout came to me during a compositional meditation. What gets achieved is a musical experience that feels much like a relationship with a like-minded friend - honest, balanced and free, yet supported. The two improvisations (trumpet and clarinet) signify individuality within the context of the greater whole of a connected relationship." "Tutti" is up next, an original composition inspired by the master, Ornette Coleman, and his, "harmolodic musical philosophy where harmony, melody, speed, and rhythm are equal to each other yet ultimately dependent on the musician's range of expression," explained Holman. The robust "Chain of Command" was inspired by the TV show, The Wire, and reflects the farce that often comes of authority and power in a hierarchical organization. This is expressed with a section of collective improvisation that blurs the line of who is in charge and it is up to the listener to decide who is at the top and who at the bottom of the musical food chain." "Tandem" is an intimate song that connects two-part music in a way that is highly organized but also allows for a loose creativity to shine through. "The instruments are often coupled throughout and rely on each other to determine the direction of when and how the music is played," said Holman.

Other highlights on When Flooded are: "Earworm", "a mysterious tune that evokes real creeping, crawling life forms, (try turning out the lights and listening!), and uses a twelve tone pitch row in all of the written material that still penetrates the ear in a memorable way. While composing this piece I was inspired by the Dave Douglas composition "Bardot" from a live recording of his Tiny Bell Trio"; "Between" is about being in limbo, vulnerable, and contrastingly, pushing towards the next thing in life and being content in the moment; "Where the Tracks End" is inspired by a re-occurring dream that Holman has. "I have a hazy black-and white image of an abandoned railroad track out in the lush countryside and I wonder where it comes from and where it might be going. This piece uses only two melodic ideas in counterpoint to reflect the two rails of a track. In my dream, since there is no beginning and no end to the tracks, the melodic parts of the piece just stand as a musical image, bookshelved by a cajón groove"; and the album's closer, "Syndrome", "which was the final piece written for this recording. I was interested in having a short, through-composed piece that uses only one melodic phrase as the entire basis for the composition - harmonically, melodically, and rhythmically. There is a familiar formal narrative in art of starting small, developing and reaching a climax, and coming back home again. I imitate this typical formal structure, the composer's 'syndrome,' - but hopefully in my own unique way".

Although Matt Holman is well versed in the standard jazz repertoire, most of his creative endeavors revolve around his original music and music composed by his peers. When Flooded features nine of Holman's gems that are overflowing with harmonic/melodic sophistication and beauty, abundant rhythmic variety, collective improvisation, and a high level of imaginative extemporization from all of the musicians. When Flooded is an auspicious debut, it is an album of such depth that it warrants numerous listens, and it brings to our attention an artist that has all of the attributes of a musician destined for an illustrious career.

www.MattHolman.com

JOHN MEDESKI RELEASES FIRST SOLO PROJECT - A DIFFERENT TIME

Keyboard master John Medeski thrives on the unpredictable, a trait that has kept his work with the trailblazing trio Medeski Martin & Wood (MMW) fresh and surprising for more than twenty years. With A Different Time, his first solo piano project, Medeski once again takes his sound in a completely unexpected direction - unexpected even to him.

"I had a more eclectic record in mind," Medeski says. "I wanted to put out something that would be more representative of what my live solo concerts are like."

Instead, A Different Time (out April 9 - the first release on Sony Classical's newly-revived OKeh Records imprint) is a far more introspective, meditative collection than fans of MMW's lively, groove-driven music might expect. Consisting mostly of Medeski's own compositions and improvisations, with a familiar spiritual and a Willie Nelson song added into the mix, the album presents a different side of Medeski's prodigious artistry, one which he was initially reluctant to display.

"In all honesty, it was a little scary to put this out because it's so meditative and contemplative," Medeski admits. "I know it's not what anybody's expecting, but it's a side of me that exists. It's really raw and open, stripped of all hipness. But it's made me a little less afraid to just drop into the moment and play what's coming to me as opposed to something that I know will work, something that I know is cool, something that I know will have a certain effect. The whole point is to get lost in the music."

Not just a first for Medeski, A Different Time also marks the return of the historic OKeh label, once home for such jazz pioneers as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, King Oliver, and Sidney Bechet. Sony Classical has revived the label as an outlet for new jazz releases by artists like Medeski, Bill Frisell, David Sanborn & Bob James, and Craig Handy, among others to be announced. "At this point," Medeski says, "after everything that's gone on in the music business, it's exciting that Sony has come around to releasing new creative music again. I like the energy of being part of something new."

While he's become better known for a more buoyant, organ-centric approach that melds free-wheeling jazz with jam band eclecticism, Medeski says that sitting alone at a piano feels natural, returning him to his earliest experiences at the keyboard. "I grew up playing piano my whole life," he says, "so it feels like home to me." He began playing more solo concerts in recent years, and decided it was time to document that aspect of his playing.

The album was recorded at Waterfront Studios, producer Henry Hirsch's recording studio built within a 19th-century church in New York's scenic Hudson Valley. For his solo debut, Medeski wanted to aim for a sound quality that approached his personal "Holy Grail," the recordings that classical pianist Arthur Rubinstein made for RCA Records. Hirsch shared his admiration for those sessions, so Medeski spent several days recording on Waterfront's nine-foot Steinway piano.

But Hirsch also encouraged Medeski to try the studio's other piano, a 1924 Gaveau - a French piano made in a pre-modern style, akin to Chopin's preferred model, the Pleyel. The instrument, as it turned out, was a revelation and made a profound impact on the music that came to be A Different Time.

"The Gaveau required a very delicate, controlled touch," Medeski explains. "It is much harder to get a good sound out of it than it is on a regular piano. You have to use a lot of control; touch makes a huge difference and when you play delicately you can get a lot of nuance and really make this instrument sing. I tried a lot of things that had never worked for me before, and when I went back and listened to all of the recordings, that stuff stuck out as the most unique."

The entirety of A Different Time was recorded on the Gaveau, with minimal electronics in order to capture the instrument's full dynamic range. The sessions were undertaken late at night, when outside noise was at a minimum and a more crepuscular mood settled over the church. As Medeski writes in his liner notes, he hopes that listeners approach the album in the same atmosphere, at a time "when social responsibilities are over, when the political questions of the day have been dealt with, when all gossip has come to an end, when all needs and wants have been put to momentary rest, when all plans have been made, when you are tired of words, and you are ready to yield to the sounds of these simple contemplations for the Gaveau."

The album begins with the title track, a stark "spontaneous composition" improvised by Medeski at the Gaveau. The name has several connotations, evoking that night-time ambience but also harkening back to a time when records occupied a listener's full attention, before the multifarious distractions of the modern world. "There was a time when people used to sit down and listen to music, when it wasn't just the soundtrack to your life," Medeski says. "I remember sitting in a room with a group of people, experiencing music together, at a time when we as human beings really got lost in the sound."

A Different Time offers a sustained opportunity to become lost in Medeski's deeply personal sound, presenting an intensely focused experience of keen emotional virtuosity. The selection ranges from the tender Willie Nelson ballad "I'm Falling in Love Again," a piece which Medeski has long wanted to record and which finally found its best expression through the Gaveau; to "His Eye Is On the Sparrow," a traditional spiritual that Medeski approaches with a lush reverence.

"Ran" is another tune for which Medeski has long sought the proper context, the album's sole through-composed piece. The wistful "Otis," which closes the album, was originally recorded on Notes From the Underground, MMW's 1992 debut album. The sing-song "Waiting at the Gate" dates back even further, to a musical Medeski wrote in his teens. "It's just a little tune that I wrote when I was a kid and never played for anybody," Medeski laughs. "Ever."

The heart-breakingly gorgeous "Luz Marina" was written for Mama Kia, the founder of an orphanage in Peru who passed away in 2010. Luz Marina was the name of her first adopted child, who died at a tender age. Medeski sought to depict Mama Kia's inspirational and generous spirit through the piece. The final two pieces are both improvisations: "Graveyard Fields," which shares the deceptively morbid name of a bucolic area in North Carolina, and the darkly tinged "Lacrima," more aptly named for the Italian word for "tear."

The fact that he didn't try out the Gaveau until he thought he'd already gotten a full album in the can took a considerable amount of pressure off of Medeski's shoulders, opening him up to the more naked, vulnerable sound of the album.

"I was just playing music," he says. It was just about dealing with the instrument and the room and making the music that felt good. I just got lost in the sound, and that's really the ultimate goal anytime you sit down to play."

Upcoming John Medeski Appearances:
+ February 22 / The Blockley / Philadelphia, PA
+ February 26 - March 3 / Blue Note / New York, NY
++ April 6 / Walker Art Center / Minneapolis, MN
*April 7 / Old Town School of Folk / Chicago, IL
*April 8 / Shank Hall / Milwaukee, WI
*April 10 / Le Poisson Rouge / New York, NY
*April 12 / The Kleinert Center / Woodstock, NY
**April 17 / Kirkland Performance Center / Kirkland, WA
**April 18 / Roseland Theatre / Portland, OR
**April 19 / Napa Valley Opera House / Napa, CA
**April 20 / Jackson Hall / Davis, CA
**April 21 / Knitting Factory / Reno, NV
**April 22 - 23 / Great American Music Hall / San Francisco, CA
**April 25 / Sunset Center / Carmel, CA
**April 26 / Royce Hall - UCLA / Los Angeles, CA
**April 27 / Belly Up / San Diego, CA
++ May 17 / Moers Festival / Moers, Germany
++ May 19 / FIMAV / Victoriaville, Canada
++ June 11 / TBA / Quito, Ecuador
++ June 12 / TBA / Santiago, Chile
++ June 13 / TBA / Concepción, Chile
++ June 14 / TBA / Buenos Aires, Argentina
++ June 15 - 16 / TBA / Sao Paulo, Brazil

* Solo Piano
** Medeski Martin & Wood
+ Bill Evans
++ John Zorn

John Medeski · A Different Time / / OKeh · Release Date: April 9, 2013

NEW RELEASES - DAVID P. STEVENS, PHIL DENNY, TAKUYA KURODA SEXTET

DAVID P. STEVENS - EPIPHANY

Multi-talented contemporary jazz, neo~fusion, R&B, nu~soul guitarist, singer, songwriter, producer, arranger, multi-instrumentalist, and recording studio engineer David P. Stevens is putting the finishing touches on his latest release entitled Epophany.  Due out this March, Epiphany includes 11 tracks of contemporary jazz, fusion, and soul flavors featuring Jamie Knight, Carl Cox, Frank McComb, Nothende, Carol Riddick, Tesa Williams, Elan Trotman, and Gerald Veasley​. Raised in the City of Brotherly Love when Philadelphia International Records dominated the pop and R&B charts, In 2005, David released his debut studio album, entitled Timeless. The buzz generated from that project demanded David record his 2008 sophomore album, entitled The Shedd, which garnered the interest of 111 East Jazz Records. The label felt so strongly about the diamond in the rough project overlooked by the larger market that in 2011 David recorded additional songs, and 111 East Jazz Records repacked the CD as Uptown which was released to global indie acclaim, and admirable bulleted positions across various music charts globally. ​~ davidstevensmusic.com

PHIL DENNY - CROSSOVER

Phil Denny's blazing sax, infectious melodies and in-the-pocket grooves on "Crossover" create an exuberant album sure to make him a major new force on the contemporary urban jazz scene. Smooth, tantalizing horn textures rich with emotion and feel, are what is offered up on this ten-track debut produced and co-written by Nate Harasim. Denny also welcomes to the party guitar heavy hitters Nils, Gerey Johnson, Matt Godina and Frank Selman as well as appearances by bassist Terrance Palmer and vocalist Anna Stevenson. This tasty and dynamic debut release not only offers a blend of energy and soul, but the kind of sexy Quiet Storm flavored ballads that will be a revelation to those listeners always hungry for the best new talent the contemporary jazz scene has to offer. Although no stranger to the stage, Phil Denny's work on "Crossover" will be branded as the new identity of this passionate and soulful talent. Inspired by a variety of musical influences, "Crossover" is sure to resonate with a diverse listener base appreciative of the strong playing and production the CD showcases. ~ CD Baby

TAKUYA KURODA SEXTET - SIX ACES

With his brilliant tone and soulful, passionate delivery, it’s no wonder that young Japanese trumpeter Takuya Kuroda continues to thrive in New York City, the world’s most competitive arena for live performance. Originally from Kobe, Takuya came to the U.S. in 2003 to study at the New School Jazz and Contemporary Music Program. Since arriving to New York, he has become a fixture on the working musician scene, performing alongside living legends (Junior Mance, Terumasa Hino), acknowledged masters (Greg Tardy, Francisco Mela, Pino Palladino) and the rising stars of his generation (Jose James, Ben Williams, Kris Bowers, Jamire Williams). Takuya can be seen and heard performing at music festivals worldwide (Java Jazz, Rio Das Ostras, River to River, Vitoria Jazz) and at some of the most important venues for live performance in the country (The Blue Note, The Jazz Standard, Radio City Music Hall, The Village Underground). As a recording artist, Takuya can be heard most recently on Jose Jame’s “Blackmagic”, and Jiro Yoshia’s “Made in New York” and “Cut Back”. Takuya has released two albums as a leader, “Bitter and High”(2010) and “Edge”(2011), both to critical acclaim. “Bitter and High” was selected by Jazz Hihyou Magazine for their article “The Top 6 Best Albums of The Year of 2010” and by Jazzweek.com for “The Top 50 Jazz Albums of 2010”. Since its release, “Edge” has ranked as high as #3 in the national airplay charts for jazz radio programming, a featured album on radio shows across the U.S.  In addition to his own projects, Takuya performs as a member of Jose Jame’s band, Akoya Afrobeat, the MK Groove Orchestra, Chicken Gravy, and Main Space. ~ CD Baby

NEW RELEASES - LUIZ BONFA, CASWELL SISTERS, HORACE SILVER

LUIZ BONFA - AMOR! THE FABULOUS GUITAR OF LUIZ BONFA

A rare early album by the legend Brazilian guitar genius – still bossa, but also recorded in the US – which gives the album a stronger jazz feel at times! The core focus here is still on Bonfa's lively guitar solos – but the presence of added jazz musicians make for a set that's a bit fuller and richer than some of the more solo-styled album from Luiz – not exactly Verve bossa, but somewhere close – and a wonderful record that manages to capture the best side of Bonfa's lyrical genius – thanks to a mix of original sambas and bossa tunes, plus Bonfa-ized versions of some American standards. Titles include  "Island Of Trinidade", "Blue Madrid", "Old Times", "Indian Dance", "Marajo", "Brasilia", and "Arabesque". ~ Dusty Groove

CASWELL SISTERS FEATURING FRED HERSCH - ALIVE IN THE SINGING AIR   After thriving careers under Establishing Their Own names over the last ten years, sisters Rachel and Sara Caswell Have Their focus increasingly turned to the musical bond they'd shared since childhood. Vocalist and violinist Sara Rachel first Approached Fred Hersch back in 2008 about working with 'em was attached project as pianist and co-producer. The results of Their cooperation may be Heard on Singing Alive in the Air , a breathtaking collection of songs featuring Hersch, one of jazz 's most Celebrated pianists, with backing by bassist Jeremy Allen and drummer Bryson Kern . The CD will be released on March 5 by the sisters' Turtle Ridge Records. Surprises abound in the sisters' repertoire choices. Two Hersch compositions with lyrics by British jazz singer Norma Winstone - " Song of Life "and" A Wish "- Especially fine are fits. In a nod to Their Bloomington, Indiana roots, the Caswells include Hoagy Carmichael's " I Get Along Without You Very Well "and Their version of Nancy King's samba" I Sing for You "goes out to King, one of Rachel's favorite singers.  

HORACE SILVER - SILVER 'N HORSES

A beautiful, beautiful record from Horace Silver – one of his great 70s experiments for Blue Note – and a set that has him working in the same "jazz with voices" mode explored by Max Roach and Donald Byrd in earlier years! The core of the set is focused around the great work of Silver's combo – with Tom Harrell on trumpet, Bob Berg on tenor, Ron Carter on bass, and Al Foster on drums – a wonderfully cohesive unit that arcs and turns with all these sweet little shifts – keeping up with the creative rhythms directed from Silver, while cascading through a beautiful range of tones and colors as well! The vocals follow suit beautifully – directed by Alan Copeland, but with a much more soulful approach than his 60s material – bursting forth with this warmth and sense of tone that really matches the instrumentation. Titles include "I Will Always Love You", "Out Of The Night", "Incentive", "New York Lament", "Mood For Maude", and "All In Time". ~ Dusty Groove

NEW RELEASES - MARCOS VALLE, RONNIE FOSTER, CHARLES BELL AND THE CONTEMPORARY JAZZ QUARTET

MARCOS VALLE - VENTO SUL

A holy grail! This is one of Marcos Valle's best-ever albums – and it's certainly the one to best realize the larger scope he was heading for in the years after the bossa – that sublime mix of jazz and more expansive arrangements – a perfect fit for the growing sophistication of Valle's songwriting. The record is fantastic – done with a sweeping sound that still leaves us breathless after all these years – and put together with an approach to composition that is virtually indescribable. There's a huge amount of influences running through here, and the album is proof that Valle was one of Brazil's richest talents, never ceasing to perfect and transform his craft – even long after he could have rested on the laurels of his success! Tracks include "Democustico",
"Revolucao Organica", "Vento Sul", "Paisagem De Mariana", and "Pista O2". (Heavy gatefold pressing – with notes, lyrics, and a great cover that's even better than the original!) ~ Dusty Groove

RONNIE FOSTER - ON THE AVENUE

Massive keyboard work from Ronnie Foster – one of his sweet funky 70s sets for Blue Note – and a killer all the way through! Ronnie plays a host of cool keys – Hammond, clavinet, and moog – and he's working here with tight production from George Benson, who really helps find a new soulful edge for Foster's music – plus great horns from Alfred Ellis, who helps bring a bit of his James Brown influence into the mix! Some of the best cuts feel like blacksploitation funk – with Foster taking long solos over some great instrumental grooves – often with the same offbeat twists and turns, and cool colors he brought to his Two Headed Freap album. Titles include "On The Avenue", "To See A Smile", "First Light", "Serenade To A Rock", and a nice version of Stevie Wonder's "Golden Lady". ~ Dusty Groove

CHARLES BELL AND THE CONTEMPORARY JAZZ QUARTET - ANOTHER DIMENSION

A wonderful set by the enigmatic Charles Bell – a 60s modernist, but one with a great sense of soul! The album definitely lives up to its title, and has a fresh approach to the medium – a style that has some of the Modern Jazz Quartet influence in its structure, yet which also shares some more complex rhythmic ideas from the Ornette Coleman camp – mixed with a straighter hardbop vibe as well! The blend is quite compelling – and in addition to Bell's work on piano, the set also features Bill Smith on guitar, Ron Carter on bass, and Allan Blairman on drums. Titles include "Django", "Satan Said", "Portrait Of Aunt Mary", "Theme", and "Bass Line". ~ Dusty Groove

SHAWN JONES - STRUGGLE MAKES YOU STRONGER

This morning I popped Shawn Jones' new album, Struggle Makes You Stronger, into my car CD player and halfway into the first song I knew that this was going to be a terrific album. The lead song, "Life Is For The Living" essentially sets the vibe for the entire rest of the album - it's upbeat with a definite hook melody and lyrics that capture your attention.

Struggle Makes You Stronger finds Jones ruminating on our need for relationships (Day Without Rain; As Long As I've Got You); fortitude (Struggle Makes You Stronger; Running Water); and age-old topics of love (Sweet Victoria; Bittersweet Love; Yours To Lose).

This album has a little bit of everything - sexy rockin' vibes, southern rock, laid-back west coast vibe, a groovy R&B acoustic feel, and some serious guitar playing throughout.

Attention radio programmers - this album is chock full of hits, it's radio-friendly, and I would be surprised if it does not become a huge seller!

Shawn Jones is the epitome of American Roots/Rock music. He has proven over time that he has an international appeal. He is true to form of his influences, spanning from the greats in Rock, Rhythm & Blues, Jazz & Country. With four studio albums and one live album under his belt, Shawn's skills as a seasoned songwriter, guitarist, and vocalist have put him on the same bill with the likes of BB King, Buddy Guy, Bonnie Raitt, Robert Cray, Jimmie Vaughan, Willie Nelson, Eric Johnson, Leon Russell, Robben Ford, Derek Trucks, Little Feat, Joe Bonamassa, Taj Mahal, and David Hindley. Waylon Jennings was so impressed with Shawn's live performances that he took Jones under his wing, offering him the grand opportunity to play on his 1996 release 'Right For The Time."

This album's release comes in the wake of extensively touring the UK and Ireland, as well as appearing at major music festivals where Shawn has created buzz on the blues rock scene, collecting rave reviews and radio airlplay along the way. Shawn has been working away, at times in excess of 200 dates a year, creating new fans and followers literally everywhere he performs.   www.shawnjonesmusic.com www.facebook.com/shawnjonesmusic www.twitter.com/shawnjonesmusic www.reverbnationmusic.com/shawnjonesmusic

KIRK WHALUM - NEW ALBUM ANNOUNCEMENT & TOUR DATES

Kirk Whalum has announced that he will soon be touring with B.W.B (i.e Norman Brown, Kirk Whalum, Rick Braun). The group is finishing up a Michael Jackson Tribute record that'll be out late spring. Whalum is also working on two gospel projects, including The Gospel According to Jazz Chapter 4! In the meantime, Kirk is on tour and you can catch him on the road.

• February 13 - Portland, OR - Quartet w/ John Stoddart, Lalah Hathaway, Norman Brown & Rick Braun
• February 15 - Washington, DC - Lincoln Theatre w/Chante Moore
• February 23 - Los Angeles, CA - Nokia Theatre L.A. LIVE 94.7 The WAVE's Smooth Night Out
• March 8 - Nashville, TN - Nashville Jazz Workshop
• April 5 - Cape Town, South Africa - Cape Town Jazz Festival / B.W.B
• April 6 - Cape Town, South Africa - Cape Town Jazz Festival / Romance Language
• April 13 - Reading, PA - Crowne Plaza Reading Ballroom / Berks Jazz Fest
• April 14 - Reading, PA - Scottish Rite Cathedral Performing Arts / Berks Jazz Fest: Gospel Show
• April 20 - Panama City, FL - Pier Park Amphitheater, Seabreeze Jazz Festival / B.W.B
• April 28 - Memphis, TN - GPAC w/John Stoddart and Orchestra
• May 24 - Atlanta, GA - Chastain Park / B.W.B
• May 25 - Jacksonville, FL - Downtown, Jacksonville Jazz Festival / B.W.B
• May 26 - San Diego, CA - Hilton San Diego Bayfront / B.W.B
• June 1 - Newport Beach, CA - Hyatt Newporter Jazz Festival / B.W.B
• June 22 - Charlotte, NC - Time Warner Cable Uptown Amphitheatre Charlotte /B.W.B - Uptown Charlotte Jazz Fest
• July 19 - Norfolk, VA - Town Point Park, Norfolk Jazz Festival / B.W.B
• July 20 - San Dimas, CA - Bonelli Park / B.W.B
• August 10 - Kettering, OH - Fraze Pavilion / B.W.B
• September 13 - Newport Beach, CA - Hyatt Newporter Jazz Series / B.W.B
• September 22 - Italy, Greece , Sicily - Dave Koz and Friends Cruise
• January 11 - 18, 2014 - Smooth Jazz Cruise 2014 - Holland America ms Westerdam

RECORD KICKS 10TH - 21 CUTS OF TODAY'S EXPLOSIVE RAW FUNK AND DEEP SOUL SCENE

After 109 releases (of which 90 have been on vinyl), 51 international artists released, and over 43,000 7" vinyl records pressed, it's time for us to celebrate our 10th anniversary!

From deep funk to (northern) soul, afrobeat, dancefloor jazz and rocksteady, what you hold in your hands is a collection of Record Kicks hits filled up with many exclusive contributions that will give you the full spectrum of the sounds that we love.

Amongst the exclusive tracks, you'll find new jazzy instrumental stormers by Detroit deep funk outfit Third Coast Kings, UK funk titans The Baker Brothers and Sydney premier afrobeat combo The Liberators. Nick Pride & The Pimptones are back with a brand new soul single that anticipates their forthcoming LP expected on Record Kicks for the end of the year and last but not least, recorded in Kingston and produced in Buenos Aires by Mario Siperman (Los Fabulous Cadilllac); the first brand new single in years from Lee Scratch Perry's soulful queen Susan Cadogan, together with mod reggae kings The Crabs Corporation. On the compilation there are also new singles by Hannah Williams & the Tastemakers and Dojo Cuts, plus label evergreens like Nostalgia 77/The New Mastersounds, Gizelle Smith/TM Juke, Lack Of Afro/Kokolo, Baby Charles, and plenty more.

Craig Charles, the famous BBC 6 Music Funk & Soul DJ, says that "If you are wondering why there has been a renewed interest in soul and funk over the past few years then Record Kicks has to take some of the credit". 10 years ago we could not have anticipated such a high level of appreciation, so we would like to thank you all for all these fabulous 10 years together.

NEW RELEASES - JONI MITCHELL, JORGE BEN, TYLER MITCHELL

JONI MITCHELL - THE STUDIO ALBUMS 1968-1979

A beautiful way to dive right into the some of best work ever by Joni Mitchell – a 10CD set that brings together her first 10 albums in a single set – including her great couple of early efforts for Reprise and her incredible Asylum work from throughout the 70s! These albums travel from gentle folk pop and rock, to an ambitious blend of jazzy experimental instrumental touches as a backdrop – and feature some of very best songcraft of the era by anyone! The titles include Songs For A Seagull, Clouds, Ladies Of The Canyon, Blue, For The Rose, Court And Spark, The Hissing Of Summer Lawns, Hejira, Don Juan's Reckless Daughter and Mingus – and nearly every one is essential! (Limited edition. CDs come in mini-LP replica gatefold sleeves.)  ~ Dusty Groove

JORGE BEN - AFRICA BRASIL

A landmark recording that is one of Jorge Ben's best albums ever! The album is a perfect realization of the way that Jorge mixes Brazilian rhythms with choppy Afro grooves – and the result is a masterpiece that yeilded some of his biggest tracks ever. Included here is the great choppy funk track "Ponta De Lanca", plus loads of other goodies like "O Filosofo", "Xica Da Silva", "A Historia De Jorge", and a great remake of "Taj Mahal" – probably his greatest cut ever. Great all the way through – and is a perfect introduction to Jorge Ben if you don't know his work, and an essential addition to your collection if you do! (Sorry this is so expensive! The album's a very limited pressing which came to us at a very high price – and although high, it's still most likely less than you'd pay for a mint original pressing.) ~ Dusty Groove

TYLER MITCHELL - LIVE AT SMALLS

An ultra-hip set from bassist Tyler Mitchell – a player who doesn't often record as a leader, but really makes his mark with this live performance from Smalls! Mitchell's group here is a great one – a really cohesive quintet with Josh Evans on trumpet, Abraham Burton on tenor, Spike Wilner on piano, and Eric McPherson on drums – all players who come together on the album's original compositions, and who have the inventiveness to keep things spontaneous and flowing on the very long tracks – all tunes that go well past a dozen or more minutes in length. Wilner's especially nice – bold, yet sensitive – and a great bridge between the leader and hornmen. Titles include "A Time Called Now", "La Tendresse", "Caton", "Taking It With Me", and "Taj's Theme". ~ Dusty Groove

NEW RELEASES - GREATER DAVIS, DAVID SCHNITTER, GRANT STEWART

GREATER DAVIS - LOST SOUL

An incredible collection of work from the vastly-overlooked Geater Davis – and a set that definitely lives up to its title! Geater Davis is a tremendous singer from the south – but one who barely ever got his due back in the 70s – even though these recordings for the tiny House Of Orange label are every bit as amazing as work coming out for bigger labels like Stax or Hi Records! Although Davis didn't record nearly as much as his contemporaries, he's got a sound that matches or beats them – a raw, raspy quality that's a bit like Bobby Blue Bland, touched with the depth of feeling we love in James Carr, peppered with elements of other Memphis singers – all produced to perfection with a sound that's got a deep-burning soul that never lets up. This excellent collection features all tracks from Geater's rare album Sweet Woman's Love, plus additional singles from the time – all produced by Allen Orange, an overlooked genius in the southern studio scene of the 70s. Titles include "Don't Marry A Fool", "Cry Cry Cry", "I Love You", "I Know My Baby Loves Me", "I Can Hold My Own", "Cold Love (long version)", "I'll Get By", "I'll Play The Blues For You", "Breath Taking Girl", and a killer long take on "For Your Precious Love". (Limited edition.) ~ Dusty Groove

DAVID SCHNITTER - LIVE AT SMALLS

A brilliant set from tenorist David Schnitter – maybe the best we've heard from him in years – and that's saying a lot, given the strength of his work! The album's got that special spark and crackle we love in the Live At Smalls series – a magic way of really letting the leader open up and fly, but also giving him plenty of great group support too – in this case a rock-solid rhythm section of Spile Wilner on piano, Ugonna Okegwo on bass, and Anthony Pinciotti on drums – able to soar when Schnitter wants to, and hang back with darker notes on some of the more contemplative numbers. Many numbers are great originals from David – including "Squeamish", "Drone Tone", "Freeway", and "Portrait" – and Marti Mabin provides some great guest vocals on versions of "Soul Eyes" and "Peace". ~ Dusty Groove

GRANT STEWART - LIVE AT SMALLS   A great tenorist, heard here in a wonderfully rich setting – a set of long, open tracks that really let Grant Stewart solo strongly – all with the special sort of energy that seems to take place in these Smalls Live recordings! Most numbers push up towards the 10 minute mark, leaving lots of room for Grant's deep, soulful lines on tenor – served up with perfectly matched rhythmic support from the trio of Tardo Hammer on piano, David Wong on bass, and Phil Stewart on drums. As on other label releases, the presentation is wonderful – very basic, in ways that really let the magic of the performance come through brilliantly – a quality that's made Smalls Live one of our favorite jazz labels of the 21st Century. Titles include "Reflections", "Make Someone Happy", "Mr Lucky", "Get Out Of Town", "Somewhere In The Night", and "Meaning Of The Blues". ~ Dusty Groove

NEW RELEASES - DANIEL DOMENGE, SQUEEZE-BOT, THE WONDERTONES

DANIEL DOMENGE - LOST IN MY THOUGHTS

Smooth Jazz is a universal language around the world. Take guitarist Daniel Domenge as an example, who resides in Languedoc-Roussillon! the large vineyard region is one of the 26 regions that make up France. The world-class guitarist has played professionally for some 20 years! his passion for Smooth Jazz finally drove him to record his second album . This flawless recording features a tantalizing return to retro influences, yet the beats and rhythms are cutting edge contemporary. Daniel's guitar work is buoyed by Fender Rhodes and Hammond B3 accents as he funkifies the audio environment . Three years after his first album " Patchwork" ," Lost In My Thoughts" features exceptional performances from all contributing musicians and polished off by engineer Reynald Evrard. All of the songs are stunning!This album is smooth jazz at its best ! This French guitarist speaks fluent Smooth Jazz! ~ CD Universe

SQUEEZE-BOT - SWEET DREAMS ARE MADE OF SQUEEZE

Before the electric guitar ruined rock and roll, accordions, banjos and tubas had their rightful place in music. Driven underground by their oppressors, the great accordion/banjo/tuba bands have kept largely quiet, playing late night, speakeasy style concerts in underground clubs deep in the country, far from the ever vigilant ears of oppressive electric guitarist. But now one such underground band would run no more, and have emerged from the underground with bold new stylings, not afraid to show how music should have been played all along. ~ CD Universe


THE WONDERTONES - OLD SCHOOL

The Wondertones core group is comprised of a four piece rhythm section and a single solo guitar, rather than the usual sax, trumpet or vocalist. Accessible jazz with be-bop underpinnings, the Smooth Jazz of it's time. Great when you are driveing ,relaxing with friends or alone in contemplation. Really music that's great any time. 47 minute of the music that IS the Coolest Daddy-O. ~ CD Universe

NEW RELEASES - ASTRUD GILBERTO / STANLEY TURRENTINE, RONDI CHARLESTON, VESTA

ASTRUD GILBERTO / STANLEY TURRENTINE - ASTRUD GILBERTO WITH TURRENTINE

An expanded version of this classic – with 5 more bonus tracks, 4 of which were arranged by Ennio Morricone! The core album is incredible 70s work from the lovely Astrud Gilberto – a rare effort for the CTI label that has her teaming up with arranger Eumir Deodato and saxophonist Stanley Turrentine – all in a groove that's totally different than most of her earlier work! Astrud's breathy vocals are still wonderfully intact – but they're given a more spacious approach in the arrangements – strings mixes with rolling basslines, soaring keyboards, and stone cold tenor from Stanley – in a groove that's simply wonderful, and which takes off in a whole new direction than before! Other players include Airto, Sivuca, Hubert Laws, and Dom Um Romao – and tracks include classic versions of "Ponteio", "Vera Cruz", and "Zazueira" that are all some of the most grooving takes on the tunes ever – plus "Historia De Amor", "Where There's A Heartache", "Brazilian Tapestry", and "Wanting Things". Bonus tracks include "If Not For You", "Acercendome A Ti", "Argomenti", "En Tu Piel", and "Un Donna Che Ti Ama". ~ Dusty Groove

RONDI CHARLESTON - SIGNS OF LIFE

Emmy® and Peabody Award® winning singer/songwriter Rondi Charleston presents original story-songs and delightful jazz cover arrangements that emerge straight from the heartfelt headlines of her life. NPR specialists Missing Piece have generated significant interest in features for this release. Noted jazz guitarist Dave Stryker, who serves as music director and co-writer on several tunes, brings a polished jazz aesthetic to this engaging and unusual program. Will be co-promoted with the film No Place On Earth, which features the song The Cave Knows co-written with Fred Hersch. The song appears as a bonus on this CD.  ~ Amazon

VESTA - SEVEN

Extending a tradition that stretches from Aretha Franklin to Sarah Vaughn, singer, songwriter, Vesta Williams contributed to the soulful mix of musical era and genres during her career. Simply put, Vesta Williams is a musical legend. Before her death in September 22, 2011, Vesta released 6 studio albums that has produced “Congratulations” “Sweet Sweet Love” “4U” and “Special”. Her upcoming studio release “Seven” is completed and contains the wonderful vocals and arrangement that we have expected from her over the last 25 years. Vesta has sold over 2 million albums in her career that this effort will please all her fans. Vesta’s new single “Better Days” is available on Itunes. From Executive Producers Edwin Nicholas, Devon V. Collins and Kahlil I. Pedizisai, Vesta’s Album “Seven” will be available in Stores on March 12, 2013 from Stimuli Music. ~ urbanbridgez.com

NEW RELEASES - BALLISTER, ROB MAZUREK OCTET, ROVO SAXOPHONE QUARTET

BALLISTER - MI CASA ES EN FUEGO

Blistering sounds from Ballister – quite possibly the fiercest album so far from this key Chicago group – and that's saying a lot, given the intensity of their previous work! The trio really seem to know each other intimately by this point – so that they can really let loose, and explore a great range of sounds from the saxes of Dave Rempis, drums of Paal Nilssen-Love, and the cello, guitar, and electronics of Fred Lonberg-Holm! The album's an especially great illustration of the way that Fred's really opened up his energy level in recent years – and become a much more organic player, with a confidence in his sounds we never would have expected a decade ago. Rempis is masterful on alto, tenor, and baritone – blowing with a boldness that puts him firmly in line with a range of Chicago improvisers – and Paal's visiting drum work really pushes the whole thing forward strongly. Titles include "Cockloft", "Smolder", and "Phantom Box System". ~ Dusty Groove

ROB MAZUREK OCTET - SKULL SESSIONS

One of the most outside sets we've heard from Rob Mazurek in years – a combination of his own cornet and work on ring modulator – creating a blend of jazz and electronics that's really mindblowing! Mazurek's not alone in his creative expressions – as he's joined here by a group group of players that mixes musicians from Rob's Chicago and Brazilian scenes – including Nicole Mitchell on flute and piccolo, Jason Adasiewicz on vibes, Mauricio Takara on cavaquinho, Guilherme Granado on keyboards and electronics, Thomas Rohrer on rabeca and C melody sax, Carlos Issa on guitar, and John Herndon on drums – a really unique lineup that lives up to all their promise with the rich sounds on the set. Most tracks are quite long – and titles include "Galactic Ice Skeleton", "Skull Caves Of Alderon", "Keeping The Light Up", "Passing Light Screams", and "Voodoo & The Petrified Forest". ~ Dusty Groove

ROVA SAXOPHONE QUARTET - A SHORT HISTORY

Incredible reed interplay from the Rova Sax Quartet – still an amazing ensemble after all these years, with a mixture of complex creativity and surprising soul that few other groups of this nature can touch! On a record like this, Rova remind us that there's still plenty of freshness in the sax quartet format, when handled this well – rhythm, melody, and many other sounds coming together beautifully from the horns of Bruce Ackley on tenor and soprano sax, Steve Adams on alto and sopranino sax, Larry Ochs on tenor and sopranino, and Jon Raskin on baritone and alto. The set features a beautiful extended piece titled "Certain Space" – an amazing journey in sound – plus "The Blocks", and "To The Right Of The Blue Wall". ~ Dusty Groove

SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK BIDS FAREWELL TO LONGTIME MEMBER

Sweet Honey In The Rock, the venerable and Grammy Award-nominated a cappella ensemble that is currently celebrating its 39th performance season will bid farewell to one of its’ most tenured and revered member’s Dr. Ysaye M. Barnwell, when she officially exits the group the at end of May this year to pursue several of her own career endeavors.

Barnwell’s inimitable and distinctive bass tones were added to the DC based a cappella quartet in 1979 after being scouted and invited by the ensemble’s founder/ creator Dr. Bernice Reagon. Reagon (who retired in 2004) formed the group in 1973 along with Louise Robinson, Carol Maillard and Mie, while teaching a vocal workshop at the legendary D.C. Black Repertory Theatre Company. Both Maillard and Robinson took a sabbatical from the group in 1976, returning in1992 and 2004, respectively. The current line-up comprises Maillard, Barnwell, Robinson, Aisha Kahlil (who joined in 1981), Nitanju Bolade Casel (who joined in 1985) and Shirley Childress Saxton, an American Sign Language interpreter who has been performing ASL with the group since 1981.

Sweet Honey In The Rock's sterling legacy as songwriters, activists, inspirational performers, and musical innovators has endured and weathered twenty-three personnel changes since its’ inception. In the light of the various configurations, their patented and unique five-part harmonized fusion of African chants, blues, jazz, soul, gospel, and rhythm & blues has built a worldwide following and generated 23 original and revered recordings.

"We are very sad to see Ysaye go," says Carol Maillard, "but we know she's embarking on a wonderful world of projects and accomplishments that she'll undoubtedly achieve. She will always be a part of us and who knows when we might see her on the Sweet Honey stage again!"

Dr. Ysaye M. Barnwell

“I have loved and deeply appreciated being a part of and contributing to the ensemble and legacy of Sweet Honey over the past 34 years,” stated Barnwell. “The women of Sweet Honey will be my sisters forever, but I’ve felt a sense of calling to devote more of my personal and professional time to other projects that I’m very passionate about and have been nurturing for some time.”

Sweet Honey In The Rock has revealed plans to eventually add a new member, and will be holding auditions over the next several months in preparation for their, SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK 40th ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION: FORTY AND FIERCE, which will be launched and presented from late October 2013 – October 2014. The group is currently developing an entirely new theatrical production and show to commemorate their four decades of history- making music.

Barnwell will continue to be an integral part of all the ensemble’s live performances thru mid-May, 2013, including a series of international performances in Gent, Belgium, London, England, Muscat, Oman, and several cities in Australia in late March and early April.

Barnwell’s last recording with Sweet Honey In the Rock will be released by Appleseed Recordings on February 26, 2012. The album entitled, SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK: A TRIBUTE, LIVE! JAZZ AT LINCOLN CENTER pays homage to the songs of several legendary jazz icons including Abbey Lincoln, Miriam Makeba, Odetta and Nina Simone. The double-CD is a live recording of their sold out performances at JALC’s Rose Theatre in April 2011 which also featured a contemporary jazz trio. They will perform several of songs from their new CD in all their forthcoming dates, and will reprise the full live Tribute show at the Kimmel Theater in Philadelphia, February 28; the McCarter Theatre in Princeton, March 1; NJPAC in Newark, March 2; BB Kings in New York. March 5; and the Howard Theater in Washington, DC, March 7.



Upon her departure from Sweet Honey, Dr. Barnwell plans to devote more of her time to her other career interests which include presenting vocal community workshops, conducting, composing, and further developing several major projects. Among them, THE FORTUNE’S BONES project that was commissioned and presented by the University of Maryland at the Clarice Smith Center in February 2012.



Dr. Ysaye Barnwell will be available for interviews during the month of February. Please contact Casey Brosten at casey@mileshighproductions.com to schedule an interview.



For more information on Sweet Honey In The Rock, please visit their official website:

www.sweethoneyintherock.org

JAZZ ON THE ISLAND FEATURING PAUL TAYLOR AND PAUL 'SHILTS' WEIMAR

Saxophonist Paul Taylor & Funky New York favorite Paul “Shilts” Weimar formerly of Down to the Bone

are appearing at the Landmark Theatre in Port Washington, NY on Saturday, February 16th.

Paul Taylor grew up in Denver, where he took up the saxophone at the age of seven. He played in school bands, and in high school joined a Top 40 band called Mixed Company. Jazz keyboardist Keiko Matsui and her husband, producer Kazu Matsui, discovered him playing at the Catalina Island Jazz Festival and hired him to play in their band. He spent two years with them, and then Kazu Matsui produced his 1995 debut album, On the Horn, which reached the jazz charts and spawned a radio hit in "Til We Meet Again." Pleasure Seeker, his second album, followed in 1997 and was equally successful. Taylor released his third album, Undercover, on Peak/N-Coded Music in February 2000. Also in 2000, he toured as a special guest artist with the Rippingtons. Subsequent albums Hypnotic (2001), Steppin' Out (2003), Nightlife (2005), and Ladies' Choice (2007), all issued by Peak Records, figured high in the contemporary jazz charts, with Ladies' Choice going all the way to number one. Peak released Taylor's eighth album, Burnin', in 2009. Two years later, Taylor returned with the album Prime Time.

Paul “Shilts” Weimar hails from London, England and has been playing saxophone since his early teens. His 30 year career has spanned all forms of jazz, funk, soul and pop music, and he has toured all over the world and recorded with a host of international artists. Most recently you would have seen Shilts as Bandleader and front-man of British urban jazz funk export, “Down To The Bone” which enjoyed massive success in the United States. DTTB released 7 albums of which Paul was heavily featured, both as a player and as a writer.

Visit THE JAZZ NETWORK WORLDWIDE "A GREAT PLACE TO HANG" at: http://www.thejazznetworkworldwide.com/?xg_source=msg_mes_network

TIM GORDON - UP & UP

Tim Gordon’s musicianship has been duly-noted in all genres of music, from rock, jazz, funk, top-forty as well as the likes of the Count Basie Orchestra. Having worked live with Pink Floyd, Ray Charles, Henry Mancini, Natalie Cole, as well as orchestral dates with; Harry Connick Jr., Manhattan Transfer and Josh Groban. Gordon’s musical journey continues with an impressive array of top recording artists in literally every genre of music listing him as ‘a first call musician”.

Tim traveled for many years with The Temptations and the Four Tops performing at major venues worldwide which included PBS Specials with The Four Tops such as “Live form the Jackie Gleason Theatre”, a CD recording; “Christmas Here With You”, and the DVD; “The Four Tops Live at the MGM Grand”.

Diversity has been Tim’s calling card, with literally thousands of recording sessions to his credit; national and regional artists releases, movie and television themes and numerous commercial dates. For twenty years Tim worked for Sound Source recording studio transcribing and recording all genres of saxophone and woodwind music for the popular “Sound Choice Accompaniment Tracks”.

As an educator, Tim encourages his students with the knowledge that there is life after music school. “It is my goal as an educator that as my students find their place in life, they might continue to perform.”

The Jazz Network Worldwide is excited to promote multi-instrumentalist Tim Gordon to its worldwide platform with his new CD Up & Up. As a veteran performing and recording artist Tim Gordon penned and arranged all the songs on his new project and hand-picked some of the best musicians on the scene. “When you hear ‘Up & Up’ it makes you immediately take notice of the funky grooves and the cohesiveness of such a stellar chemistry of musical excellence. Tim Gordon truly knows how to bring a musical conversation to pass, leaving you with wanting more” says Jaijai Jackson, creator of The Jazz Network Worldwide Social Network.

“It’s always fun to record music with great players, music is what we do, its who we are” states Gordon. Notables such as Keith Carlock, Jim Brock, Tim Smith, Roddy Smith, Steve Willets, Robby Robinson, Felton Offard, Roy Agee and John Thornton made this project come to life and expertly produced by Tim Smith and Tim Gordon.

“Soulful, hip, smart and technically brilliant. What else could you ask of a saxophone player? Encyclopedic range, comfort with any kind of music, and besides all that? He’s a real nice guy. You’re in for a treat here. Tim Gordon has finally made a record of his own!” says Ricky Schultz of http://www.jazzconsultant.com.

This project has been brewing for a while and has been long overdue, the nucleus of this project was to have ‘fun’ says Gordon wanting his listening audience to experience as much fun as they had recording it.

www.timgordonsax.com.

Visit THE JAZZ NETWORK WORLDWIDE "A GREAT PLACE TO HANG" at: http://www.thejazznetworkworldwide.com/?xg_source=msg_mes_network

TONY BENNETT ON SIRIUS XM RADIO

Sirius XM Radio has announced that legendary recording artist Tony Bennett will sit down for an intimate Q&A session with an audience of SiriusXM listeners, moderated by Alec Baldwin, at the SiriusXM studios in New York City as part of its “Town Hall” series. “SiriusXM’s Town Hall with Tony Bennett,” which will take place on Wednesday, February 13, will air on Valentine’s Day, Thursday, February 14, on Siriusly Sinatra, channel 71, at 9:00 am ET and 4:00 pm ET; and SiriusXM Stars, channel 107, at 11:00 am ET. For rebroadcast times, please visit www.siriusxm.com/townhall.

Moderated by Baldwin, the “Town Hall” special will include the 17-time Grammy® winner Tony Bennett answering a variety of questions from the studio audience about his legendary career. SiriusXM listeners will have the chance to attend “SiriusXM’s Town Hall with Tony Bennett”. Listen to Siriusly Sinatra or visit www.siriusxm.com/townhall for Official Rules and details. SiriusXM listeners are also invited to submit a question for Tony Bennett on Twitter by 5:00 pm ET on Tuesday, February 12 by Tweeting @SiriusXM and using the hashtag #SXMTownHall or posting a question on SiriusXM’s Facebook page.

Bennett is currently on tour and has upcoming concerts scheduled for Boston, Ft. Lauderldale, Ft. Myers, Ft. Pierce, West Palm Beach, and San Francisco.

DONALD BYRD 1923 - 2013

The influential jazz trumpeter Donald Byrd died on Monday at the age of 80, his nephew has said. Alex Bugnon, a jazz pianist, reported his uncle's death on Thursday, though it has yet to be confirmed. Bugnon wrote on his own Facebook page: "Donald passed away Monday in Delaware, where he lived. His funeral will be held in Detroit sometime next week. I have no more patience for this unnecessary shroud of secrecy placed over his death by certain members of his immediate family. "

Byrd was born Donaldson Toussaint L'Ouverture Byrd II in Detroit in 1932 and began his career with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers in the 1950serforming alongside the likes of John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Thelonious Monk and Herbie Hancock.While his roots were in bebop he later became equally renowned for soul and funk, and particularly jazz fusion. He went on to become one of jazz label Blue Note's most significant artists, for whom he recorded most of his releases, including the 1973 album Black Byrd, which became the label's biggest ever seller.

Long after his commercial peak, Byrd's influence continued to be felt in popular music, sampled by hip-hop artists including Public Enemy, Nas, the Pharcyde and Del Tha Funkee Homosapien and house producer Armand Van Helden. Byrd's legacy is summed up by his nephew's Facebook tribute: "Let's remember Donald as a one of a kind pioneer of the trumpet, of the many styles of music he took on, of music education. In sum, Donald was an avid, eternal student of music, until his death. That's what I try to be, everyday!! Rest in peace, uncle!"

Source: http://www.guardian.co.uk/music/2013/feb/08/donald-byrd-jazz-dies

RONI BEN-HUR AND AMY LONDON'S ADVENTURES IN JAZZ

For the past 12 years guitarist/composer Roni Ben-Hur has been creating and directing jazz camps around the world. Beginning in 2002 with a week-long gathering on an organic farm in upstate New York, Cascade Farms, jazz campers not only participated in workshops, jams and concerts, they also enjoyed quality time with old and new friends. Every evening, students gathered to cook a communal dinner, which inevitably turned into a loft party, with great food, drinks and jazz.

In 2008, in partnership with his longtime friend and colleague, bassist, Santi Debriano, Ben-Hur launched a camp for jazz and Latin jazz in the small village of Saint Cezaire in Cote d'Azur, France, that also included Ben-Hur's wife, jazz vocalist and educator Amy London and drummer Steve Williams. True to the philosophy that music builds bridges, this weeklong event brought students from the U.S. and Europe together with the local community, which contributed to the events and hosted students in their homes. At the end of each day of classes, students and residents of the village gathered for a communal dinner, followed by a jam session. The week culminated in a concert on Saturday night at the village square that attracted hundreds of music lovers from the Cote d' Azur area. The concert featured the students as well as the faculty. Nice Matin, the main daily publication of Nice, covered this event regularly with articles previewing and reviewing the concerts and workshops. This joyous celebration of jazz ran for five successful years, from 2008-2012.

From 2009-2012 Roni helped create, develop and direct 'Samba Meets Jazz' in Bar Harbour, Maine. Co-directed by bassist Nilson Matta, the camp focused on jazz and Brazilian music, and took place in Bar Harbor, Maine during the summer, and in Paraty, Brazil in the winter. It continued the tradition of high quality teaching, combined with the building of a local jazz community.

In July 2012, Amy London and Roni Ben-Hur created a new camp in Istanbul for vocalists, teaching the Great American Songbook and bossa nova to aspiring singers, mostly from Istanbul. Joined by Brazilian vocalist, Maucha Adnet , the camp culminated in student performances, as well as a gig at Istanbul's popular jazz club Nardis for Ben-Hur, London, and Adnet.

Some of the other renowned jazz musicians performing and teaching at these camps have included Arturo O'Farrill, Leny Andrade, Steve Wilson , Gilad and Café. Jazz camps can become very important events in many students' lives. Students are enriched by their involvement in this great music, as they build long-lasting relationships with other musicians, and with members of the local communities. Not only are jazz camps an opportunity for students to exchange cultures with people around the world, the camps also bring commerce to the local economies. Jazz camps serve as a window to the world for many of the participants.

Now Roni Ben-Hur is happy to announce the creation of his new company, with the partnership of Amy London, called "Adventures in Jazz", www.adventuresinjazz.com, dedicated to furthering the celebration of the Great American Songbook, straight ahead jazz, Latin jazz and Brazilian Jazz at international workshops, bringing players and fans of this wonderful music together, in beautiful locations around the world. Additionally "Adventures in Jazz" incorporates music typical to the locales of each camp, with the intent of exposing the participants to the specific and unique culture of each location.
From March 24-30, 2013 "Adventures in Jazz: Cabo Rojo" will take place in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico. This week will focus on straight ahead jazz, Afro-Cuban jazz, including Boleros, Cha Cha and Mambo, as well as Samba jazz. Co-directed by Roni Ben-Hur and Santi Debriano, the faculty will also include Amy London and percussionist /vocalist Willie Martinez. The week will end with a concert in the town center, and will hopefully become an annual jazz festival.

From August 20-31, 2013 "Adventures in Jazz: Adirondacks" will take place in two segments at Seagle Colony in Schroon Lake, NY, in the beautiful Adirondacks Mountains. August 20 to 25 will be the second year of the Amy London Vocal Jazz Camp at Seagle Colony (Summer 2012 faculty included Mark Murphy, Darmon Meader and others) and August 26 to 31 will focus on instrumental music covering straight ahead jazz, Afro-Latin and Samba Jazz. The event will culminate with the 2nd annual Schroon Lake Jazz Festival, created by Ms. London, including performances by both students and faculty.

Adventures in Jazz: Istanbul" will continue in the summer of 2013, dates TBA. In addition, there are plans for 'Adventures in Jazz: Mostoles' in Mostoles, Spain, a suburb of Madrid, in July of 2013.

NEW RELEASES - OSUNLADE, FIRE ORCHESTRA, MICKI BAROCCA

OSUNLADE - MAN WITH NO PAST ORIGINATING THE FUTURE

An even deeper set than usual from Osunlade – and a record that really helps push his musical journey even farther into the cosmos than before! The set's got some key jazzy elements that really shine amidst the fuller backdrops laid out by Osunlade – a range of keyboards that includes lots of Fender Rhodes, mini moog, Arp, and other cool sounds – mixed with earthy percussion that really helps set a more organic vibe for the record – but in ways that feel different than some of the artist's other recent efforts. Tunes are open and flowing – not often that concerned with the dancefloor as they are with a wider musical soundscape – and the set features work from key guests who include Miles Bonny on trumpet, Dwayne Carter on guitar, The Yoruba Soul Orchestra on cello, and Emanuele Coluccia on tenor, flute, and trumpet! Vocals are from the man himself, and very righteous – and titles include "Eclipse", "Luna Moth", "Camera Shy", "Vessel", "Goddess", "Conversations With Myself", "Quiet Departures", and "The Realm Of Difference". (Super-heavy pressing – feels even heavier than the 180 gram promised on the cover. ~ Dusty Groove

FIRE ORCHESTRA - EXIT

A really great album from Fire – a set that has the trio expanded way more than usual, into jazz orchestra form – and working here in a style that's wonderfully soulful and spiritual overall! The set isn't just a spiritual jazz outing – as it's got these really unique flavors and colors that still echo the intensity of the previous Fire trio outings, but which spread the energy out over the larger ensemble, then give it a lot more focus too – less improvisation, and instead some really visionary arrangements that make the whole thing shine brilliantly from start to finish. There's a bit of vocals, which are tremendous too – almost echoing some of the Fontella Bass work with the Art Ensemble Of Chicago, but darker too. Mats Gustafsson conducts the group – and really blows us away with his efforts – and the set features one long two part composition – with performances by Sten Sandell on piano and electronics, Mariam Wallentin and Sofia Jernberg on voice, Magnus Broo and Emil Strandberg on trumpet, Jonas Kullhammar on bass sax, Fredrik Ljungkvist on baritone and clarinet, and Mats himself on tenor and live electronics! (First edition pression of 500 copies with bonus CD of the album.) ~ Dusty Groove

MICKI BAROCCA - SONICALLY SPEAKING

Emerging on the scenes in 2003, Micki Barocca gave a new face to music with her incredibly sultry vocals and soul stirring blend of funk, jazz, soul fusion. This Philly songstress, given the New Artist Spotlight on RNBPhilly in 2010, was also featured in Levitate and DY magazines in 2009. Music also featured on the soundtrack of film "Finding Me: Truth".  ~ CD Universe

JUSTIN BINEK QUARTET - SONGBOOK

The debut release from the Justin Binek Quartet is a "documentation" of sorts. For this recording, the ensemble chose to record everything "real-time," with all four players in the same room in the studio. The result is a studio album with the urgency and energy of a live performance. From the blues-infused, hard-swinging solos featured on "There Is No Greater Love" to the quiet intensity of "You Don't Know This Man," "Songbook" features a wildly creative jazz quartet functioning in what is, essentially, a performance setting.

Formed in the summer of 2010, the Justin Binek Quartet pairs American jazz singer (and internationally renowned jazz educator) Justin Binek with three of the finest players in the surprising jazz hotbed of Belgium: pianist Ewout Pierreux, bassist Jos Machtel, and drummer Toni Vitacolonna. This quartet defies convention: rather than adhering to the "European jazz stereotype," the trio of Pierreux, Machtel, and Vitacolonna swings like mad and plays with bluesy abandon. Paired with the instrumentally-inspired Binek, the result is a combo that mixes 1950s and 1960s Hard Bop sensibilities with surprising contemporary influences.

"Songbook" is full of surprises. The jazz standards "There Is No Greater Love, " "I'll Remember April," "In The Wee Small Hours of the Morning," and "Beloved (Daahoud)" all feature new arrangements, courtesy of vocalist Binek. The Pierreux original "Big Do" showcases the quartet in a contemporary bebop setting, while the Binek original "Simply Enamored" features a melody, lyric, and performance in more of a classic Great American Songbook approach. The biggest surprises,though, occur in the three "non-jazz" selections. Gabriel Faure's gorgeous art song "Au bord de l'eau" is given a contemporary jazz waltz treatment, with some Afro-Cuban influence added in for good measure. Van Morrison's "Moondance" features a new vocalese lyric (written by Binek) on Bobby McFerrin's famous scat solo from his 1982 recording of the same tune. And Jason Robert Brown's beautiful "You Don't Know This Man" (from the musical "Parade") is reinterpreted as a stunning jazz ballad.

Ultimately, "Songbook" features an an exciting and innovative quartet performing jazz in a way that few others do - but with the ensemble's roots firmly planted in the jazz tradition. ~ CD Universe

SERGE GAINSBOURG / MICHEL COLOMBIER - LE PACHA / VIDOCQ / COMMENT TROUVEZ-VOUS MA SOUER?

Stunning sounds from the team of Serge Gainsbourg and Michel Colombier – and maybe the most perfect example of why Gainsbourg soundtracks can be so great! First up is the duo's fab music for the film Le Pacha – a wonderful blend of trippy touches and more subtle jazzy moments, plus bits of electric sitar and bassy funk – shifting effortlessly from track to track to create a mad melange of musical grooves! Cuts include the classic "Requiem Pour Un Con", which is a funky gem – plus "Psychastenie", "Joss A La Calvados", "Un Noel 67", "Cadavres En Serie", "Batucada Meurtriere", and Brigitte Bardot singing "Harley Davidson"! Next is Vidoq – a handful of songs originally penned for a TV series in the 60s, and very unusual work from Serge! The tunes include two very offbeat vocal numbers, sung in this deep-voiced style – plus a few more serious instrumentals, but with a weird twist. Titles include "Le Mariage De Vidocq", "A Vous De Jouer", "L'Evasion", and "Chanson Du Forcat". Comment Trouvez-Vous Ma Soeur – or "how do you find my sister?" – seems like a perfect title for a film to feature music from Serge – and the music definitely follows suit! The movie's from 1964, so captures that pivotal time when Gainsbourg was shifting from classier French styles to groovy ones – both modes featured here in the instrumentals directed by Colombier, and on Serge's vocal reading of the title tune. Tracks include "Erotico Tico", "No Love For Daddy", "La Course Au Mariage", "Rendez Vous A L'Eglise", "Surboum Chez Ma Soeur", and "Quart D'Heure Americain". ~ Dusty Groove