Derrick Hodge - Color of Noize

With his third record, 2-time GRAMMY winner Derrick Hodge unleashes his freest work yet. Color of Noize available on Blue Note Records — is the band, the concept, and the album, and if that name evokes more questions than answers for you, then you’re reading it right. The title is perfectly wide-open and inquisitive for a composer, bandleader, and bassist (etc.) with Hodge’s history. 

Color of Noize reflects a melting pot of influence and experience with jazz flow, hip-hop groove, soulful depth, spiritual uplift, and creative fire — but the concept is best described in more abstract terms. As Hodge lays it out: “It’s the contrast, it’s the beauty, it’s the chaos, it’s the freedom — all of that.”

This album also includes a few firsts. It’s the first Hodge record to use a live band throughout. It was that band’s first time playing together, and their first time hearing the songs Hodge wrote for their session. It was also Hodge’s first time bringing in a co-producer: Blue Note president Don Was.

“It was powerful to see this group of young, brilliant improvisers set up in a circle at Hollywood’s historic United Studio A,” says Was. “It felt like a throwback to what it might have been like on the floor of a Blue Note session at Rudy Van Gelder’s studio in the mid-sixties. These were ‘old school’ sessions yielding modern music so forward-looking and visionary that there is no existing genre within which to categorize it.”

“Don has this selflessness where he really wants to get to the root of what makes a musician tick and what’s pushing them in the moment,” says Hodge. “It felt invaluable to have someone like that in my corner for a project like this, to help see everything through a different lens.”

That goes to the heart of the Color of Noize concept — an intentionally broad thing meant to embrace the fluidity of sound and inspire a sense of collective ownership over that sound’s development and interpretation. “It's an idea I feel is really relevant to our time,” Hodge says. “A new artistic heartbeat that's about acceptance. It all relates to the spirit of now, not overly thinking, and moving forward.”

That’s why Hodge formed a brand-new group, and often just played them a quick run-through of each song on piano before letting them rip. Of course, it took a special crew to bring Color of Noize to life: Jahari Stampley and Michael Aaberg on keys, Mike Mitchell and Justin Tyson on drums, and DJ Jahi Sundance on turntables, with Hodge supplying bass,

keys, guitar, and voice.

In addition to his two prior Blue Note albums — 2013’s guest-packed Live Today to 2016’s almost entirely solo The Second — Hodge been a go-to collaborator for Robert Glasper, Maxwell, Terence Blanchard, and Common alike — and played on GRAMMY-winning albums by all four. He’s helped shape striking sounds in producing albums by Blue Note labelmates Kendrick Scott and James Francies, and teamed with Quincy Jones to co-produce an album by Justin Kauflin on Jones’ label Qwest. He’s brought subtly subversive concepts to world-class orchestras in Atlanta, Chicago, and D.C., and new ideas to the Monterey Jazz Festival as a 2019 artist-in-residence. R+R=NOW featuring Hodge, Glasper, Tyson, Christian Scott, Terrace Martin, and Taylor McFerrin is only the most recent supergroup he’s co-founded. If there’s one takeaway to be had from his career, it’s this: you can put Hodge in a band — any band — but you can’t put him in a box.

Chicago Avant-Jazz Trio Threadbare release "Silver Dollar"

Jason Stein has spent the last fifteen years injecting audiences’ ears with such a singularly unique approach on the bass clarinet that Eric Dolphy may finally find himself denied as the go-to reference for the instrument. Currently Stein leads two bands, Locksmith Isidore and the Jason Stein Quartet, and co-leads Hearts & Minds and Nature Work (with Paul Giallorenzo and Greg Ward respectively). Stein's work with Threadbare, his latest project, places him beside two gifted young Oberlin College graduates and recent Chicago transplants. 

Composers Ben Cruz (guitar) and Emerson Hunton (drums) lock in perfectly as a rhythm section, carefully walking a wire between jazz and rock (they also play together in the indie band Moontype). Cruz is an amazingly versatile guitarist, balancing power chords and intricate jazz runs all over the neck. Both he and Hunton are simple and basic when necessary, but can become absolutely astonishing when appropriate without being showy. Perfect for Stein.

All three members of Threadbare grew up on rock 'n 'roll and their version of it is as thrilling as it is fierce. Cruz’ “Silver Dollar” sounds like he watched the Dead Cs “Armed” writhing on the floor for 25 minutes until he finally proposed the question “Hey, what if we help this thing get up and walk?” To hear Cruz and Stein trade off energy wheezing over Hunton's leg-stomp thudding is a sheer joy. 

So how is Threadbare's jazz game? Well, they have Jason freaking Stein – plus you can go watch a clip of Cruz playing “If I Were A Bell” with a trad bassist and drummer on his website. Check out “And When Circumstances Arrive”, which features a broken melodic structure not unlike the tunes Mary Halvorson composes before flying off into the stratosphere with an especially out solo from Stein. And there's “Funny Thing Is,” which features a lightning fast hard-bop head played in unison by Stein and Cruz before erupting in frenzied bass clarinet spray over abstract jazz guitar block chords and Hunton's out-but-in groove. 

To hear Cruz and Stein trade off on this album is an absolute thrill. The icing on top is the sound of Hunton elevating everything brilliantly. Around the time of The Bells, Lou Reed said something along the lines of “If you can't play jazz and you can't play rock, you put them together and you really have something.” True enough. But what if you can play both fluidly? What if you have a rock 'n' roll heart and a jazz brain and the instincts, chops, and intelligence to pull it all off and make it fly like freedom? You're Threadbare, that's what.

David Broza / New Guitar Instrumental Album EN CASA LIMÓN

A longtime fan of the Spanish guitar, Broza has incorporated many styles of flamenco, jazz, classical into his performance repertoire. Over the years, fans and friends have repeatedly requested a guitar instrumental album. “After 43 years as a singer-songwriter, composing music without lyrics was a challenging task,” shares Broza. “I had to perfect my playing to become a guitarist by trade. It took a while – almost 3 years.”

The album was recorded at the Casa Limón Studios in Madrid, Spain, a “magical place” where some of the world’s greatest guitarists, including Paco de Lucia and Tomatito, recorded their albums. 

Producer Javier Limón directed the undercurrents of nuevo flamenco to a confluence with Broza’s other musical influences. Says Limón: “David Broza is one of the few artists with whom I would embark on any adventure with my eyes closed. The result is the most beautiful and profound journey to the roots of the most popular and beloved instrument on the planet – the Spanish Guitar.” 

In addition to Broza’s Spanish guitar, the album features Israel Suarez “Piraña” on percussion, and Dany Noel on bass. Notable guest artists are Randy Brecker on trumpet, Tali Rubenstein on recorders, Layth Sidiq on violin, Antonio Serrano on harmonica and Delfina Cheb on vocalizations. 

The album is dedicated to the memory of the great guitar luthiers Manuel Contreras and his son Pablo M. Contreras II. 

From his whirlwind fingerpicking to flamenco percussion and rhythms to a signature rock and roll sound, David Broza’s charismatic and energetic performances have delighted audiences throughout the world. Raised in Israel, Spain and England, Broza has performed worldwide since 1977, when his song “Yihye Tov” first hit the airwaves, promoting a message of peace. David Broza is known for his commitment and dedication to several humanitarian projects, especially a resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict through dialogue, culture, music and tolerance.

www.davidbroza.net 

New Music Releases: Rashied Ali & Frank Lowe, Will Vinson, Charles Rumback / Jim Baker / John Tate

Rashied Ali & Frank Lowe - Duo Exchange: Complete Sessions

A great one from drummer Rashied Ali – issued here on his own Survival label! Ali's perhaps best remembered for his spare backing behind Coltrane's solo sax on the record Interstellar Space – and we're tempted to say that there's a similar vibe going on here – as the record just features Ali on drums and percussion, and the great Frank Lowe on tenor, plus Japanese flute and a bit of percussion too. The approach is nice and open, in a loft jazz mode – and Frank blows with a rough-hewn emotion that brings a lot to the session, and which provides a good grounding for Ali's sometimes loose work on drums! The original album features one long improvisation – "Duo Exchange" – but it's expanded here by more than a full album's worth of bonus material, really great recordings that appear here for the first time ever, pressed up beautifully. ~ Dusty Groove

Will Vinson - 441

Saxophonist Will Vinson works here with a number of different players, in a number of different groupings – yet somehow the album's maybe one of his most personal and focused to date! Vinson's reed work is always a draw – but here, there's a very special quality – as the groups usually feature a pianist in the lead, and gentle rhythms behind – so that Will is carving out these lines of gentle soul that speak volumes with effortless ease – wonderfully expressive, but never in a way that's easy, sentimental, and wrapped around too-familiar modes – a beautiful set of statements by a player who's becoming one of the more distinct saxophone voices in jazz. Players include Sullivan Fortner, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Fred Hersch, and Gerald Clayton on piano; Matt Penman, Matt Brewer, and Larry Grenadier on bass; and Billy Hart, Clarence Penn, and Obed Calvaire on drums. Titles include "Boogaloo", "Love Letters", "Banal Street", "That Happened", "The Way To You", "Oasis", "Cherry Time", and "I Am James Bond". ~ Dusty Groove

Charles Rumback / Jim Baker / John Tate - June Holiday

A sublime trio set from drummer Charles Rumback – a record that has us really appreciating the special touch the leader can bring to a date, as this album may also be one of the best that we've heard from pianist Jim Baker in years! Baker has this great way of sounding soulful and lyrical, yet also moving towards the freer side of his spectrum too – working with the subtle drums of Rumback and the careful bass of John Tate, all with energy that almost takes us back to the groundbreaking Three Waves album by Steve Kuhn – one of our favorite piano dates of all time, which is a hell of a compliment to Baker! The album has an open feel, but one that's also very careful too – not the spaciousness of an ECM record, and instead more intense, but in a very understated way. Brilliant throughout – with titles that include "Here & Now", "Hard Goodbye", "Foglights", "Burning Daylight", "Huh", and "Portrait Of Lorena".  ~ Dusty Groove

Peter Cincotti Sends a Love Letter to NYC "Heart of the City"

Peter Cincotti, singer-songwriter-pianist and native New Yorker, has written a heartfelt missive to his hometown. "Heart of the City" is a love letter to NYC, whose strength, resilience and compassion were so much on display during the height of the COVID 19 pandemic. Peter puts it best, “There is no place like New York and there are no people like New Yorkers. I feel lucky and proud to have been born and raised in this city, and I wanted to share my gratitude in this song.” The video for "Heart of the City," directed by Jordan Lisi, is an interactive affair with fans who submitted their photos and videos of New York and their “hearts” for the city. 

Cincotti began playing piano at age three. While in high school, he regularly performed in clubs throughout Manhattan and by the age of 18 was called “one of the most promising singer-pianists of the next generation” by the New York Times. Peter’s first album, produced by the legendary Phil Ramone, reached #1 on the Billboard jazz charts, making Cincotti the youngest artist ever to do so. Following was a series of acclaimed performances at Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, Radio City Music Hall, Paris’ L’Olympia, The Montreux Festival as well as London’s Queen Elizabeth Hall.

Cincotti recorded the follow-up to his debut with 14-time Grammy Award winner David Foster. East of Angel Town was his first album of originals for Warner Brothers Records. His single “Goodbye Philadelphia” took the airwaves by storm reaching the Top Ten on radio playlists throughout Europe, after which he brought the album to the U.S. where he joined the artist Seal on his sold-out American tour. 

Peter made his acting debut in the Bobby Darin biopic film Beyond The Sea, and also contributed to the film’s soundtrack. He then made a cameo appearance in Spider-Man 2 and wrote the title track for the Australian film December Boys, starring Daniel Radcliffe. Soon thereafter, Cincotti became the face of the prestigious fashion house Ermenegildo Zegna, as well as also being named the first male ambassador for luxury designer TOD’S. Cincotti collaborated with the brand on the music video for his single “Madeline”, which was exclusively featured in Italy’s Vanity Fair Spring issue.

People Magazine and WWD featured Peter’s song "Made For Me," a track from his last album, Long Way From Home. Shortly thereafter, Samsung produced a 360 music video of the album’s title track, written, arranged, and produced by Cincotti.

Hailed as “the rebirth of cool” by Elle magazine, Peter explores styles that blend pop, rock, blues and jazz and has collaborated with artists ranging from DJ David Guetta to Andrea Bocelli.

Peter hosts a live show on Instagram and Facebook called ‘That Friday Feeling With Peter’ where he talks with fans, makes drinks, and plays some songs, every Friday night at 6PM EST. Later this year, Peter will begin releasing tracks from his highly anticipated new album 88 Keys and Me. It will mark Peter’s first record honoring some of the most influential piano men and women of all time, ranging from Scott Joplin to Alicia Keys. Peter’s daring arrangements of known material shatter the lines between musical genres, a pursuit that has been a common theme in all of his albums to date.

GROUPE RTD 'The Dancing Devils of Djibouti'

While the music of Somalia is widely celebrated, its neighbor, the Republic of Djibouti, formerly known as French Somaliland, is home to an equally deep reservoir of its own unique Somali music.

The small but culturally grand country on the mouth of Red Sea remains one of the few places in the world where music is still entirely the domain of the state. Since independence in 1977, one-party rule brought most music under its wing, with almost every band a national enterprise, integral to the state propaganda apparatus.

No foreign entities have been permitted to work with Djibouti’s rich roster of music — until now.

In 2016, Ostinato Records met with senior officials of Radiodiffusion-Télévision Djibouti (RTD), a.k.a. the national radio, to discuss a vision for lifting the shroud on Djiboutian music as the young country of less than a million people increasingly opens up to the world. Three years later, in 2019, Ostinato became the first label granted full authorization to access the national radio’s archives, one of the largest and best preserved in Africa, home to thousands of reels of Somali and Afar music.

But just next door, in RTD’s recording studio, a world class band entirely unknown outside the country, whose songs are a living embodiment of the archives, lay in waiting. Composed of sensational new, young talent backed by old masters, the band — Groupe RTD — is the national ceremony outfit. By day, they perform for presidential and national events and welcome foreign dignitaries.

By night, when no longer on official duty, Groupe RTD is clearly one of East Africa’s best kept secrets.

Helmed by Mohamed Abdi Alto, possibly the most unheralded saxophone virtuoso in all of Africa, and mentored by Mogadishu-born guitarist Abdirazak Hagi Sufi — both of whom feature as instrumentalists on our Grammy-nominated Sweet As Broken Dates compilation — Groupe RTD is the finest expression of Djibouti’s cosmopolitan culture.

Situated on the Bab El Mandeb (Gate of Tears) strait, a historic corridor of global trade connecting the Suez Canal and the Red Sea with the Indian Ocean, Djibouti is blessed with influences from East Asia, the Arabian peninsula, India, and even more distant sounds.
Djiboutian music, particularly the addictive brand wielded by Groupe RTD, is, by their own admission, the juncture where Indian Bollywood vocal styles, offbeat licks of Jamaican dub and reggae, sleek horns inspired by Harlem’s jazz era, and haunting and joyous synthesizer melodies of the Red Sea collide.

Sax player Mohamed Abdi Alto — so talented that they added “Alto” to his legal name — honed his trade from a steady diet of John Coltrane and Charlie Parker. Abdirazak’s guitar style draws heavily from his love affair with Jamaican music. Young singers Asma Omar, who won a youth talent contest to join the band, and Hassan Omar Houssein are fluent in the classic hits of Bollywood and Indian music. Synth player Moussa Aden Ainan brings a distinctly dexterous Somali touch, reminiscent of the exceptional keys work of Somalia’s Iftin and Waaberi Band. Their sound is kept afloat by measured Tadjouran rhythms, courtesy of drummer Omar Farah Houssein and dumbek player Salem Mohamed Ahmed’s perfect interplay.

But recording this album was Ostinato’s biggest challenge yet. A web of bureaucracy and strict rules had to be navigated. Djibouti’s authorities gave us only three days to record the entire set, with no extension. Up for the task and eager to deliver, the musicians promptly tore down the “no smoking or chewing khat” sign in RTD’s recording studio and began a heated, three-day, khat-fueled devilish feast of music amid a smokey haze, unleashing the very reason the band was founded: to strut Djibouti’s majestic music on the world stage when the opportunity arrived.

The recording equipment in the radio had not been upgraded in decades and technical neglect meant we had to devise a novel approach to ensure the highest quality recording possible. With the help of Djibouti’s head of customs, we flew in a state-of-the-art mobile recording studio replete with the very best audio interfaces and carefully positioned microphones around a less than soundproof room to achieve a vibrant, professional sound while maintaining the analog warmth of decades prior.

This game-changing setup, a far cry from the old days of field recordings, is Ostinato Records’ vision for the future: to capture the contemporary sounds of Africa and the world flawlessly, in any environment or circumstance.

We proudly present Ostinato’s premier studio recorded album and the first ever international album to emerge from Djibouti — Groupe RTD: The Dancing Devils of Djibouti.

Saxophonist KIM WATERS New CD SHAKEDOWN

Heralded as “Simply one of the planet’s best saxophonists” by JazzTimes Magazine and the “Pied piper of Smooth Jazz” by Upscale Magazine, Kim Waters has enjoyed a career longevity that is rare in the music business. For three decades, the prolific chart-topping saxophonist, composer and producer, has reigned as one of the premier architects of Urban Smooth Jazz and a beacon of light in Contemporary Jazz. He ‘s garnered praise from critics and fans alike, ranking among the top five best-selling instrumentalists in jazz. “New music continues to come out, which gives the world something to lift them up and share with family and friends,” states Waters, whose new and 24th recording as a leader, Shakedown offers a thrilling ten-track escape meant to catapult us to a happier frequency. The Georgia based saxman shares, “Shakedown to me is something that makes you want to get up and dance and move your body! That was my goal for this CD!! Music that makes you happy and soothes the soul!”

 Kim Waters’ instantly recognizable sound has found the perfect equilibrium between sensitivity and brawn, intellect and emotion and technique and soulfulness. On Shakedown the suave, debonair and commanding saxophonist’s ability to transcend the musical boundaries of Jazz, Pop and R&B have made him one of the most sought-after musicians in Contemporary Jazz. In typical fashion, Waters is like a one-man band, playing all the instruments on Shakedown as he creates dreamy melodies, sultry ballads and funky and bluesy dance-inspired grooves. He also reinvents a recent R&B gem. The new album is dedicated to Waters’ wife Dana and his twin daughters Kimberly and Kayla.  “They all inspire me so much and they are truly my best friends! Kayla has become an amazing artist, writer, producer and performer!! Words cannot express how this makes me feel to work together with her and to share the stage together on many occasions! She continues to grow at her craft and she and Kimberly are my heart!” 

Waters composed Shakedown at the piano as opposed to his normal process, which is in the recording studio. “This is the first album where I wrote all of the songs at my grand piano in my piano lounge. I usually write in my studio, but this time I stayed on the piano until all of the songs were written.” Shakedown opens with the jubilant and uplifting title-track and first single. It has a bluesy-old school feel and is reminiscent of the Ramsey Lewis hit and crowd pleaser “The In Crowd.” The composition “Feels Like Friday Night” is a fun-loving celebration marked by Waters’ soulful horn doubling on the chorus and his gorgeous flowing sax melody throughout. We are transported to the British Virgin Islands in the Caribbean for the song “Nina In Tortola.” You can feel the island breeze as Waters graceful soprano dances in the rhythms of the island mist. The undeniable groove and funk riffs on “Takin’ The High Road” and “On The Streets” will beckon you to get on your good foot while the tender moments created on the tranquil “With Open Arms” and pensive “The Moment I See You” will move you to a place of peace and quiet reflection. “With Open Arms” is dedicated to Waters’ late father-in-law, Frank Mayo Sr. “We were extremely close and did everything together,” shares Waters. “Whenever anyone came to his house, he welcomed them with open arms and always made sure they had plenty to eat and drink.” 

Shakedown revs into high gear with the edgy, driving and pulsating “In The Fast Lane.” This gear-shifting number is sure to release some much needed endorphins. Always current with what is hot on the scene, Kim Waters has enjoyed great success reworking Hip Hop, R&B and Reggae hits with a jazzy twist on his popular CDs Streetwize and Tha’ Hot Club.  On Shakedown the saxophonist reinvents the Ella Mai hit and a favorite of his sister Joyce, “Boo’d Up.” Waters’ own sensual take on this lovers delight makes its own notable mark on this R&B hit. It is apropos that Shakedown ends with “Hidden Treasure.” At the end of Waters’ ten-track excursion, this song is indeed a hidden treasure and the reward for joining the saxophonist on his musical adventure. The uplifting closer is sure to leave your mood and spirit elevated. “When my fans hear this new CD, I hope that they forget about whatever it is that they may be going through, and that their spirits are lifted up and they are smiling and moving to the grooves!!!” says Waters.

Born in Maryland into a musical family, Kim Waters picked up his first instrument, the violin, at the age of eight. "That didn't go over well with the fellas," says Waters, who later found his calling on the alto and soprano saxophones at 13. Shortly afterwards he began playing in a band with his brothers James (who he still performs with) and Eric and his old friend, pianist Cyrus Chestnut. Kim Waters has been called on to perform with or open shows for the best including Al Green, Isaac Hayes, Phyllis Hyman, Teddy Riley and Guy, and Gerald Albright to name a few. Through the years Kim Waters has recorded a string of successful and chart-topping albums on Shanachie: Love’s Melody (1998), One Special Moment (1999), From The Heart (2001), Someone To Love You (2002), In the Name of Love (2004), All For Love (2005), You Are My Lady (2007), I Want You: Love in the Spirit of Marvin (2008), Love Stories (2010), This Heart of Mine (2011), Rhythm and Romance (2016) and What I Like (2018).

We could all learn a thing from Kim Waters’ Zen-like approach to music and life. He is an advocate of not sweating the small stuff and seeing the big picture. He professes that these are key ingredients to living a long life. Waters is also motivated by the opportunity to reach others. He concludes, “My fans, friends and family inspire me to be the best I can be. It makes me smile when I hear and see people happy because of my music!!! That's what it’s all about.”

Soul-jazz guitarist Gregory Goodloe - Cool Like That

When R&B/jazz guitarist Gregory Goodloe dropped his new single, “Cool Like That,” at the beginning of March before the novel coronavirus outbreak hit the US with a vengeance, it was the No. 1 most added single on the Billboard airplay chart in its debut week and earned the most new spins in its second week. The song that he wrote with and features urban-jazz icon Bob Baldwin has taken on quite a different spin in the face of the health and economic crisis that have put lives, finances, and the future in peril. The track that was conceived to recreate the classic cool contemporary jazz sound and will serve as the title cut of his forthcoming album has become somewhat of an affirmation to Goodloe to stay calm and be fluid during this period of uncertainty
.
“What’s on my mind is the unsureness of life. It’s very fragile. My mother, who is in her 80s, I worry about keeping her safe. My main concern right now is to be able to continue taking care of my mom,” said the Denver-based Goodloe who is doing his best to maintain his even-keeled cool despite so many unanswered questions about what’s ahead for musicians and the music industry.

“Like every other musician right now, we’re going through a transition. We don’t know what’s going to be at the end of the rainbow. We don’t know if everything is going to be more condensed. Is it the end of concerts? Is it the end of festivals? Is everything going to be digital now? Are we just going to be in-house songwriters? That’s the kind of thing that’s going through my mind. This time is about being able to work through that; to have the change, but not let it defeat me. To move like water into the flow of whatever change has to happen in order to continue to create music.”       

“Cool Like That” is Goodloe’s first single since last June when he landed his first Billboard No. 1 single, “Stylin’,” which also topped the Mediabase and Smooth Jazz Top 20 charts. With Baldwin producing and crafting the lion’s share of the new single’s production as well as contributing shimmering keyboard flourishes, Goodloe’s crisp electric guitar recalls two of the legendary guitarists who inspired the track’s conception: George Benson and Wes Montgomery.

“When the idea came for ‘Cool Like That,’ I sought out the writing expertise of Bob Baldwin because he’s almost like a pure jazz enthusiast. I wanted to use his expertise to create that kind of vibe of when jazz was cool. I went through an era of listening to people like Herbie Hancock and wanting to be a musician. We thought it would be cool to be a jazz musician. That era includes your Grover Washington Jr.’s, Wes Montgomery and George Benson when he first came out. It was an exciting time - when classic jazz was the poster of what cool really was. So, I wanted my song to be cool like that, like that whole era. I wanted to reproduce that vibe,” said Goodloe.

Goodloe has been working towards a summer release for the “Cool Like That” album, but the stay-at-home mandate may lead to a delay. For now, he prefers to keep his cards close to his chest when it comes to the identities of the prominent hitmakers with whom he has been writing and recording for the collection. Goodloe admits to struggling to focus on songwriting since the outbreak.

“Some of the songs were written before the virus and I have yet to pen anything of any significance since  the virus hit and the economic downfall. It’s kind of a solemn time and people are reflecting. You have time to create and hone your craft because a lot of things are shutdown.”

At the suggestion of a fan, Goodloe has spent the last few Saturday nights in his home studio playing live and connecting with fans on Facebook Live. He is going to continue what he has now titled “Saturday Night Hang” (7pm Mountain Time), which he sees as an offering to help people get through the crisis.

“The idea is to interact and try to ease people’s minds during this pandemic because a lot of people are panicking. They are frustrated and some are freaking out. The quarantine itself, some people don’t know how to handle it. So, I want to provide an hour escape. I kind of mix it up. Because some of my followers are Christian, I may open with a couple of Christian songs and read a bible passage. After that, I try to play songs that people recognize and they can sing to. I play familiar tunes and throw in some of my own music.”      
   
Goodloe debuted as a solo artist in 2010 and has performed with an array of R&B, jazz and gospel greats including Howard Hewett, Surface, Tank, Ben Tankard, Shirley Caesar, John P. Key, The Rance Allen Group and Angela Spivey, and opened for Dave Koz, Brian Culbertson and Norman Brown. He also played one gig with award-winning blues artist Sista Monica Parker, an experience that perhaps answers the question about whether this crisis will diminish the joyous spirit that permeates his guitar play and songwriting as he works towards completing the “Cool Like That” album.

“I remember playing for Sista Monica and she only hired me one time because she said my blues is like happy blues. I don’t know if I would be able to write a song about the unhappy mood of current times because I don’t know if that part of me will come out. I’d probably just end up playing happy blues.” 

http://gregorygoodloe.com

Elemental Music Presents New Additions to the Famed Jazz Images Series

Elemental Music Presents New Additions to the Famed Jazz Images Series
Photographers Francis Wolff and William Claxton's Musically Iconic Historic Images

It’s always challenging to use one art form to pay homage to another. To capture the essence of a transcendent art form like jazz through photography, while representing its precious substance of sound and structure through a purely visual element is a challenge of the highest order. While many have taken photos of jazz artists in performance and in portraiture, only a treasured few have been able to match their artistry to the level of the music. Two of the most profound of these photographers are Francis Wolff and William Claxton – each of whom is powerfully represented in Elemental Music’s latest pair of releases in its Jazz Images series.

Like the first book in the series, Jazz Images by Jean-Pierre Leloir, Jazz Images by Francis Wolff and Jazz Images by William Claxton are beautifully packaged in 11.5 inch square hardcover editions, each book containing 164 pages with more than 150 images by both of these master photographers. For the most part the images are given a full page each and while Wolff’s are entirely in the black-and-white format that was his trademark, a number of the photos in the Claxton book are in color. Each photograph is underscored with the specific information as to the circumstances in which the photo was taken as well as the identity of all of those who are depicted in the photo. Both editions have highly informative introductions by noted writers/historians Howard Mandel (Claxton) and Ashley Kahn (Wolff). All of this contributes not only to the books as visual feasts, but also as important historical documentation of the glorious art of jazz.

Just as Miles Davis and Clifford Brown were two masters of the same discipline telling their stories through significantly different approaches, so the same can be said of these two giants. Wolff’s tightly contained claustrophobia in the sacred prayer chapel of Rudy Van Gelder’s studio contrasts with Claxton’s airy, open approach that airlifted the musicians out of the smoky club setting and into the natural atmosphere of the outdoors for what the photographer described as jazz for the eyes.

While capturing images of jazz musicians in performance is both compelling and exciting, an even deeper truth is conveyed through the artists as flesh and blood human beings with identities and personae as fully defined as the music they create. The most expressive and revered portrait photographers, from early masters like Dorothea Lange and Alfred Stieglitz to later heavyweights like Richard Avedon and Yousuf Karsh were all brilliant at capturing the essence of their subjects. But they primarily operated in a controlled environment where the photograph was really the only purpose of the action. While Claxton was an experienced fashion photographer, both he and Wolff had to play their instruments in the environment of spontaneity and immediacy that is the essence of jazz. That makes the results even more rewarding, and in truth, a form of jazz expression. 

Francis Wolff’s art was virtually limited to the New York domain of Blue Note Records within the sanctified environs of the peerless recording engineer Rudy Van Gelder’s fabled studio just outside of the city. A refugee from Nazi Germany and soon after his arrival in NY, co-owner of Blue Note with founder Alfred Lion, Wolff’s ability to remain “invisibly” unobtrusive (despite the use of flash) enabled him to portray artists in the purest moments of making recorded music – whether playing, conversing, writing, listening or even relaxing between takes. This makes Wolff’s photographs like no others.

Just a sample of some of the stunning images in this book -- Hank Mobley, cradling his horn in warm embrace as he listens to a playback; Lee Morgan and Joe Henderson playing face to face with horns positioned so it looks like Lee is pouring his tones into Joe’s welcoming bell; Art Blakey’s cat-like intensity as he squints into his snare waiting for the perfect moment to strike; the magnificent John Coltrane leaning back in passionate concentration as he streams his spiritual essence out through his preaching horn; Miles Davis coolly blowing over his crossed legs with his seemingly relaxed posture betrayed by the intensity with which his hand is grasping the metal back of the chair; Herbie Hancock with his head resting on his hand perched above the keyboard his eyes inches away from his fingers as he sounds out an idea; Elvin Jones’ hand tightly wrapped around Reggie Workman’s shoulder as they share a joyous laugh; Dexter Gordon, Ike Quebec and Alfred Lion poring over session notes – vividly illustrate what makes Francis Wolff so special. 

William Claxton also had an affiliation with a major jazz label as art director of Pacific Jazz Records. This led to a close relationship with Chet Baker, and the book contains 22 images of the iconic and highly photogenic trumpeter. As a native of California, Claxton’s focus was primarily on the West Coast – both its jazz scene and its wide-open sunny environment. That didn’t lessen the intensity of his artistry, just shifted the vibe from the confined to the limitless. And while there is an overall sense of joy and exuberance to his work, he could also create a powerful aura of intensity. This is evidenced by his images of Bill Evans scrunched over the keyboard in contorted internal passion; Stan Getz, playing with face in shadow under the light outside a stage door in Hollywood; Clifford Brown, elbows tight against his ribcage with face compressed as he births a tale from his horn.

It was Claxton’s style to bring the artist out of the expected musical environment and into the healthy outside world. Cannonball Adderley’s quintet clustered under a Chinese beach umbrella on a sunny California beach; Chet Baker hanging arched from the mast on a sailboat above his bandmates; Charlie Byrd playing alone under a tree over the Potomac River; Donald Byrd pensively playing seated among a group of riders on NYC’s “A”Train; John Coltrane, leaning against on a railing in the Guggenheim Museum; the Kenton band in stark silhouette with horns held high in the air outside the Rendezvous Ballroom on the beach in Balboa; Ramsey Lewis’ Trio on the streets of Chicago; Charles Mingus, Ornette Coleman, Max Roach and Kenny Dorham against the Newport RI backdrop on an impromptu stage during the Newport Rebels counter-festival.; Thelonious Monk on the back of a San Francisco streetcar; Art Pepper climbing a hilly street in LA; Sonny Rollins cradling his horn under one arm at the Joshua Tree Monument in California.

Featuring portraits of scores of the most legendary figures in jazz of the second half of the 20th century, Elemental’s founder Jordy Soley has bestowed a monumental gift to jazz fans and musician with this series. And most importantly it provides a firsthand look at the truth and soul embodied in those who make jazz the glorious manifestation of the human spirit that it is.

New Music Releases: David Philips & Abel Boquera,Tansy, Haggis Horns

David Philips & Abel Boquera - The Duo Sessions

David Philips and his good friend and keyboard wizard Abel Boquera have been playing in bands together for the past 10+ years. Last year they decided to get together in Abel's studio to make a few videos playing duo. The audio from this session is what you find here. Abel played an old 1970s Fender Rhodes electric piano and mixed/mastered the session. The first 2 songs are David's originals from his record "Get Along" and the last was a bit of fun; a cover version of the Michael Jackson hit "The Way You Make Me Feel."

Tansy – Full Bloom

New Orleans duo, Tansy, have released their debut album Full Bloom after receiving immense acclaim for their first two singles. Full Bloom is an ode to growth, love, and continuing down the path even when you are uncertain of the future. Full Bloom is a testament to their New Orleans roots and collaborative style, featuring several of New Orleans finest musicians. Their previous singles received high critical acclaim from the likes of IGGY Magazine, Bong Mines Entertainment, LeFuturewave, The Jamwich, and several others. Atwood Magazine described their debut as "Cozy jazzy tones and an R&B soulfulness". Full Bloom is an ode to their growth over the past years, both collectively and personally, as Tansy finds their niche in the contemporary jazz soundscapes of New Orleans. 

Haggis Horns - Stand Up For Love

The Haggis Horns just seem to get tighter and tighter with each new record – to a point where they're way more than just another funk combo with a gimmicky name, and have grown into a really great soul group on their own! The rhythms, arrangements, and horns are great – but there's also plenty of excellent vocals on the set from John McCallum, a singer who helps the group move way past just simple funk modes, and way into more of a fuller-blown style of vintage soul – one that might rival the best of their countrymen, Average White Band – and which almost has the sharp crackle and snap of early work by Brand New Heavies! Titles include "Burning", "Stand Up For Love", "Give It Up", "Haggis Express", "Shoulder To Shoulder", "Don't Give A Damn", and "Suzi Traffic". ~ Dusty Groove

Fabiano do Nascimento - Now-Again

The Brazilian guitarist’s third album for Now-Again, featuring 10 original compositions. Shades of Baden Powell, Hermeto Pascoal, Carioca, Tenorio Jr., Rosinha de Valença.

“To call it magic would be too dismissive of the work Do Nascimento has put into translating both the stunning natural landscapes and rich musical history of Brazil from his perceptions to this album. Blood, sweat, deep love all play vital roles…” – Pop Matters.

Prelúdio is the third album Now-Again Records has issued from the thrilling, young Brasilian guitarist Fabiano do Nascimento. Produced by Mario Caldato, Jr. and Luther Russell and engineered and mixed by Caldato and Jason Hiller, this album features do Nascimento’s longtime drummer Ricardo “Tiki” Pasillas.

It is the first album of solely do Nascimento’s own compositions and, like his previous albums Dança dos Tempos and Tempo dos Mestres, follows folkloric Brasilian music, Brasilian jazz, bossa-nova and samba as experienced through the mind and able fingers of an expansive musician, combing the heady ‘60s and ‘70s experimentalism of Hermeto Pascoal and Baden Powell with the childlike elegance of music played and passed down by native Brasilians for generations.

  

Do Nascimento was born into a musical family, from lineage that stretches back to his great-grand-father Ladario Teixeira, a blind saxophonist who contributed to the re-creation of the instrument by adding more keys to the older incarnation of the instrument in the early 20th century. He was born in Rio de Janeiro and grew up there and in Sao Paulo, where he found inspiration in his uncle, the late Lúcio Nascimento, bassist and composer in Leny Andrade’s band Bom de Três.

While he came from a musical pedigree, he’s largely self-taught, largely in the service of an overarching mission to showcase the folkloric music of his home country as he continue to develop possibilities for language of the guitar itself. His studies ramped up after he moved to Los Angeles in 2001. His first champion was Aloe Blacc, who worked with do Nascimento over the years, including his work on his debut album Shine Through for Stones Throw Records. His collaborators now include Madlib, multi-instrumentalist Sam Gandel, Innovative Leisure chanteuse Claude Fontaine and legendary Brasilian percussionist, bandleader, songwriter and catalyst Airto Moreira.

Moreiera states that Nascimento is “Brazilian but (his mind is) from a place in Brazil that is not common.” Fortunately, we still have some musicians who like to play music and who like to touch the instrument and who like that energy! You see, because that’s the most important thing in music. The energy. That’s why I love to play live. And that’s why I’m playing with Fabiano.”

 

New Music Releases: Tenderlonious, The Black Art Collective, Diazpora

Tenderlonious - The Piccolo: Tender Plays Tubby

22a founder, producer and multi-instrumentalist, Tenderlonious, head's up this incredibly special release for Jazz Detective Records, paying homage to the British jazz legend Tubby Hayes. A chance sequence of events lead to Tenderlonious, getting his hands on Tubby Hayes' Piccolo, resulting in this outstanding re-interpretation of four classic Tubby Hayes tracks. Features some of London's finest jazz musicians, with the hope; to introduce a whole new generation of jazz fans to a true great of British jazz. Personnel: Ed 'Tender' Cawthorne (piccolo, flute, soprano saxophone), Nick Walters (trumpet), Hamish Balfour (piano, vibes, Fender Rhodes), Pete Martin (bass guitar), Aidan Shepherd (accordion), and Tim Carnegie (drums). ~ Dusty Groove

The Black Art Jazz Collective - Ascension

The Black Art Jazz Collective was founded in 2012 by Wayne Escoffery and Jeremy Pelt with the aim of honouring and preserving the art of some of the progenitors of jazz who inspired them, hired them and mentored them first-hand. And while the band does pay homage to the greats of the past they also continue the evolving tradition of jazz with a body of work that remains firmly entrenched in the modernism of today. From the angular melody of Escoffery's "Involuntary Servitude," to the ingratiating groove of Pelt's "For the Kids," the ensemble extends the range and potential established by their illustrious predecessors with innovative original compositions, solos that run the gamut from thoughtful to virtuosic and a shared sense of purpose that is unique on today's jazz landscape. Personnel: Wayne Escoffery (tenor saxophone), Jeremy Pelt (trumpet), James Burton III (trombone), Victor Gould (piano), Rashaan Carter (bass), Mark Whitfield Jr. (drums). ~ Dusty Groove

Diazpora - Ping Pong Powerplay

No time for table games here – as Diazpora jump right in the groove from the very first note – working with a sweet 70s funk approach to their music, which means lots of riffing guitar, funky basslines, and horns punctuating the keys – all while lead singer Axel Maximilian Fiege sings in this very strong way – able to go deep one minute, inflect a falsetto the next – all with these twists and turns that make him way more than just another soul singer working with a funk band! Axel's strong presence in the lead really gives the whole thing a heck of a lot of power and shape – and titles include "Hit Me", "The Bachelor", "Hangin On", "Ready To Go", "Play The Ball", "The Olympians", and "You Shot Me Down". ~ Dusty Groove

Erroll Garner's Gershwin & Kern

In his original 1976 liner notes, concert impresario George Wein concluded fittingly, “To put it simply, Erroll Garner is a great musical genius.” On this final album released during Garner’s life, he shows yet again his complete mastery of his instrument and his unmatched ability to interpret songs and make them his own. This newly restored album includes a previously unreleased Garner original, worthy of the two composers to which this album is dedicated.

The newly minted bonus tracks in the series are all Garner originals, eight of the 12 being previously unreleased compositions. “It’s truly shocking, and one of the greatest joys of this work, to find these fully realized tunes just sitting there on tape,” says Peter Lockhart, senior producer of the Octave Remastered Series.

One of the most prolific composers and performers in the history of jazz, as well as a courageous advocate for African American artistic freedom through the ownership and control over his own works. Garner is a legend among jazz pianists. His unique approach melds bebop and swing influences into a unique, unrivaled mastery.

Garner is also a notable figure in popular music history for the hard-won precedents he set for artistic freedom that still stand today. In 1959, because he had rights of approval on what was released, Garner successfully sued Columbia Records to remove an album they had released without his permission.

His victory was the first of its kind for any American artist in the music industry. Garner and his manager, Martha Glaser, subsequently founded and launched Octave Records, whose 12 releases make up the Octave Remastered Series.

Erroll Garner was a rare musician who was equally adored and respected by peers and devoted fans alike. He and his art were best summed up by the late trumpeter Clark Terry: “The man was complete. He could do it all.”

One of the most prolific composers and performers in the history of jazz, as well as a courageous advocate for African-American empowerment and artistic freedom, Garner is a legend among jazz pianists. His unique approach melds bebop and swing influences into a unique, unrivaled mastery.

In addition to his brilliant keyboard artistry, Garner is also a notable figure in popular music history for the hard-won precedents he set for artistic freedom that still stand today. In 1959, because he had rights of approval on what was released, Garner successfully sued Columbia Records to remove an album they had released without his permission.

His victory was the first of its kind for any American artist in the music industry. Garner and his manager, Martha Glaser, subsequently founded and launched Octave Records, whose 12 releases make up the Octave Remastered Series.

Erroll Garner was a rare musician who was equally adored and respected by peers and devoted fans alike. He and his art were best summed up by the late trumpeter Clark Terry: “The man was complete. He could do it all.”

La Lucha Releases Debut Recording: Everybody Wants To Rule The World

The trio’s music ventures boldly into a wide variety of musical styles, offering an appealing and fun mix of genres under the jazz umbrella. The combination of their musical versatility and varied musical influences makes for compelling virtuosic performances. Through an engaging stage presence and high level of interaction, La Lucha brings the audience into their world.

La Lucha has built an impressive resume performing with jazz legends including Randy Brecker, Dick Hyman, Charles McPherson, Wycliffe Gordon, Marty Morell; as well as, the renowned guests that appear on this album: Melissa Aldana, Ken Peplowski, Chuck Redd, Diego Figueiredo, and Houston Person.

La Lucha is a Tampa Bay based trio that consists of three best friends from three different parts of the world: Colombia (Alejandro Arenas), Mexico (John O’Leary), & United States (Mark Feinman). Their music ventures boldly into a wide variety of musical styles, offering an appealing and fun mix of genres under the jazz umbrella. The combination of their musical versatility and varied musical influences makes for compelling virtuosic performances. Through an engaging stage presence and high level of interaction, La Lucha brings the audience into their world.

Beautifully produced by clarinetist Ken Peplowski, Everybody Wants To Rule The World features a diverse and creative group of musicians with widely eclectic interests. From punk to heavy metal, salsa, jazz, world music, and even classical tuba, La Lucha melds their energies and unique musical and cultural backgrounds to create their sound. Having grown up in very different parts of the world with varied musical influences permeates throughout the music. “We find that jazz is the perfect vehicle for those differences to meld together, due to the freedom that exists within it. There is also a wonderful human and musical coexistence within La Lucha and that gives us a joy that sets the tone of what we do.” There's so much compositional strength in this trio.

With a name meaning ‘the fight or struggle,’ La Lucha positively reminds the audience to overcome whatever one needs, including the obstacles found in living with a commitment to an artistic life. “Trust is at the core of what we do. Each member of the group is an essential part of the La Lucha sound and brings something unique to the table. The sound we have is impossible to achieve without this particular combination of individuals, and that sound is the essence of our music.”

LAURA BENANTI - "SUCKER" 

LAURA BENANTI SHARES NEW SINGLE & MUSIC VIDEO HER TAKE ON THE JONAS BROTHERS' CHART-TOPPING HIT "SUCKER"
 
TONY® AWARD-WINNING STAR WILL DONATE 100% OF HER EARNINGS FROM THE RECORDING TO FOODCORPS ON THE HEELS OF LAURA'S SOCIAL MEDIA CAMPAIGN #SUNSHINESONGS

"I've been working on new music for a while and have been so looking forward to releasing it this year.  When it became clear to me that my first single would drop during the height of the Corona crisis, the only thing that felt right to me was to turn the release into a charitable endeavor. In keeping with the intention of the #SunshineSongs campaign (to bring light to a dark time) the accompanying video for ‘Sucker' is a compilation of how so many of us are spending our time; from quarantine to the frontlines. It is meant to be a love letter to America, especially our first responders and those being of service during this unprecedented time. We are all in this together."

In the midst of an illustrious career spanning Broadway, film, and television, Tony® Award-winning actress, singer, author, and philanthropist Laura Benanti now brings a longstanding dream to life as she gears up to release new solo music with Sony Music Masterworks.  With Broadway credits ranging from the My Fair Lady revival and Steve Martin's Meteor Shower to She Loves Me, Laura garnered a Tony® Award in the category of "Best Featured Actress in a Musical" for the 2008 production of Gypsy-among five career nominations to date. Meanwhile, her performance in Women on the Verge of a Nervous Breakdown would be honored with the Drama Desk Award and Outer Critics Circle Award for "Best Featured Actress in a Musical." Simultaneously, she enchanted audiences on the small screen, appearing on Younger, Supergirl, Nashville, The Good Wife, Nurse Jackie, and more in addition to films including WORTH and the upcoming Here Today.

Together with communities, FoodCorps connects kids to healthy food in school. Now that the COVID-19 pandemic has forced school closures, our 250 service members, spanning 375 schools in 18 states and Washington, D.C., are helping with emergency meal services, remote food and nutrition lessons that reinforce academic priorities, and garden cultivation for community building and local nourishment. FoodCorps is also mobilizing its nationwide network of partners and allies to advocate for policies that will help schools keep kids nourished through this crisis and beyond. Through our service and advocacy, we seek to demonstrate the power of food in schools and ensure our country's policies and food systems work together to nurture every child's potential. Learn more at foodcorps.org.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nj1KTvZ1NZU

Bettye LaVette: Blackbirds

BLUES LEGEND BETTYE LAVETTE RELEASES POWERFUL RENDITION OF "STRANGE FRUIT" AHEAD OF SCHEDULE TO GIVE VOICE TO MODERN DAY LYNCHINGS 

Track to be featured on her upcoming album "Blackbirds," a tribute to iconic black women in music on August 28

Blues Hall of Famer Bettye LaVette has decided to release her stirring rendition of "Strange Fruit" ahead of schedule as it says as much about the history of American racism and the state of the country today.  "Strange Fruit" was originally recorded by Billie Holiday in 1939 and written by Jewish teacher Abel Meeropol who wrote the song based on a photo of two black men who were lynched as a crowd of white people looked in the camera pointing and smiling. LaVette's version will be featured on her album, "Blackbirds" (Verve) set for release August 28.

"It really is horrifying that nearly 80 years later, through Billie's lifetime and now my 74 years, the meaning of this song still applies. It might not be men and women hanging from trees, but these public executions are now on video and it feels like they're doing it for sport. I hope the song will be a reminder that we have had enough, and I support the Black Lives Matter movement," said LaVette.

"Blackbirds," features songs primarily popularized by some of her peers, other iconic women in music, who she personally respected and admired. Set for release August 28, the album finds LaVette in top form delivering powerful renditions of songs that touched her personally. It also re-unites her with producer Steve Jordan.

From Dinah Washington's "Drinking Again," Nina Simone's "I Hold No Grudge," Nancy Wilson's "Save Your Love For Me" and more, all delivered in LaVette's rich and raspy tone with a touch of the blues.

Bettye LaVette is a native of Detroit. Her first recording in 1962, at the age of sixteen, was on Atlantic Records. She later charted with such singles as "He Made A Woman Out Of Me" and "Do Your Duty," Since then she has recorded ten albums. Her most recent album Things Have Changed, also produced by Steve Jordan (John Mayer, Keith Richards), was released on Verve in 2018 and received two GRAMMY nominations, which brings her total Grammy nominations to five.

Chris “Big Dog” Davis - Focus

Multi-Grammy Nominated Producer & Keyboardist Chris “Big Dog” Davis Releases Shanachie Debut As A Solo Artist;  Star-Studded Affair Features Guests Maysa, Dave Koz, Kim Waters, Gerald Albright, Rick Braun, Nick Colionne, Bluey & Others!

Click Link To Check Out Chris "Big Dog" Davis' New Single "It's All Love"Featuring Dave Koz         

         

 Few artists are equally captivating behind the scenes and on the stage. It requires a certain amount of vision, keen musicianship and discipline. On Focus, all of these skills coalesce to create a thrilling 11– track experience that demonstrates the type of magic that multi Grammy nominated keyboardist and producer Chris “Big Dog” Davis’ has brought to other artists as a producer. His Midas touch has added finesse to endeavors by Brian McKnight, George Clinton, Will Downing, Syleena Johnson, Chanté Moore, Maysa, and numerous others. As he takes center stage for the first time on recording, his wizardry blesses an entire album of inspirational and moving originals. 

“This experience has really been exciting and rewarding. My hope is that people will enjoy coming into my musical world and getting a deeper glimpse into who I am and all of the music that has influenced me from Jazz, Funk Gospel and Pop,” says Davis, who has produced 17 #1 hits on the Contemporary Jazz charts. Danny Weiss, VP of Jazz A&R states, “Chris has been our go-to producer for everyone from Kim Burrell to Maysa to Norman Brown, just to name a few. We're thrilled to be releasing his first solo album, so that the world can witness the full expression of his artistic talent.”

“The idea behind Focus was to create music with some of my favorite people. It also served as a reminder to keep your eyes on a prize and to let our dreams become our reality,” shares the handsome and amiable 6’3” bodybuilder who spent a stint in the Marine Corps. The Waterbury, CT native drew from diverse influences like Miles Davis, Chaka Khan and George Duke and even his own Zen  rooted philosophy to living life.  Focus joins Davis with a cadre of the best working artists in Contemporary Jazz including Kim Waters, Gerald Albright, Rick Braun, Dave Koz, Maysa, Bluey and Nick Colionne. “It is so humbling to have all of these artists join me on this project. Every single one of them came bearing gifts that make this album so special,” shares the keyboardist.

Focus opens paying homage to the ‘Queen of Funk’ with the Doheny/Stuart Chaka Khan hit "Whatcha Gonna Do For Me." “Big Dog's” sophisticated and in the pocket-groove on this favorite R&B jam unites him with saxophonist Gerald Albright. The duo scored a Grammy nomination in 2015 for their collaboration Slam Dunk. The title-track is a fitting motivational anthem, as we face the challenges of our current time. Powered by the dynamic duo of Maysa and Bluey, “Focus” is a potent reminder to focus on the things that truly matter.

The ethereal Zen ballad, “One Day At A Time” reminds us to be mindful as “Big Dog’s” cascading piano lines take flight with Rick Braun’s sailing trumpet to perfect effect. The song takes inspiration from conversations Davis has had with his limo driver Max.  The gospel-tinged “You Are Loved,” inspired by George Duke and featuring bassist Ace Livingston, brings another layer of beauty into focus, while the jubilant “Silver Street,” featuring saxophonist Marty Quadrato, transports us down a winding road of joy. The composition “It’s All Love” is named after one of the Davis’ favorite sayings. He unearths a mountain of emotion on this track that unites him with saxophonist Dave Koz as they create one of the most memorable moments on the album. Focus also showcases the sensual "You Just Smile," featuring guitarist Tony DePaolo. “We are all so stressed and rushing from one place to the next and this song is just a reminder that the world would truly be a better place if we would all just take a moment and smile,” shares Davis, devoted father to five daughters. A pleasant surprise on Focus is the composition “Natural High” which takes inspiration from Miles Davis and finds “Big Dog” taking us down a bluesy bend as he stretches out and gets loose for this soul drenched number. ‘Big Dog’ kicks it up a notch on the dance-inspired “Fall Back” while "Just When You Thought You Had Enough," featuring guitarist Nick Colionne, serves up a sweet groove with the perfect combination of funk and soul. The album ceremoniously closes with the show-stopping finisher "Blue Light Special" showcasing Kim Waters.   

          

A native of Waterbury, CT, Chris “Big Dog” Davis’ early beginnings were immersed in music. He began studying piano at age four. His mother was the choir director at Refuge Church of Christ where he played in the band seven days a week. He was later recruited for a gifted after school program at Yale University where he studied classical composition. By sixteen, Davis had recorded his first 45 Gospel records with his church youth choir entitled “Lord, Who Shall Abide” and “He’s The Only One.” Davis would go on to study with famed altoman Jackie McLean at the Hartt School of Music. It was a time when Gospel, R&B, Jazz, and Hip-Hop were cross-fertilizing and Davis was finding his own voice where his arpeggios came accented with back-beats and flat sevenths. In 1995, he landed the opportunity to work with Brian McKnight and appeared with him on The Arsenio Hall Show, The Tonight Show, and The Rosie O’Donnell Show. Throughout Chris ‘Big Dog’ Davis’ career he has always reveled in the opportunity as he put it to “hear the music and become the architect that helps the artist achieve their sound and vision.” His unique gift has afforded him the opportunity to remain busy the past two decades working with Will Downing, Kim Waters, Kim Burrell, Maysa, Phil Perry, Avant and countless other artists. This time around on Focus, “Big Dog’s” canvas has come into sharp focus and the details of his artistry leave no doubt that he is a force to reckon with.