New Music: Ron King, D. S. Wilson, Jim Allchin, Dee Lucas

Ron King - Cascade

A few years back, when veteran Grammy-nominated trumpeter Ron King first started working with guitarist and producer Paul Brown, the Smooth Jazz hitmaker put it bluntly to his new friend, “You need to write a hit song.” King, whose decades long resume includes Marvin Gaye, Frank Sinatra, Jeff Lorber and David Benoit, took the advice to heart and has been in solo artist overdrive ever since, releasing 6 singles from his 2020 album Downtown Mama. King's  latest single “Cascade” (the title track, from his upcoming album) is a silky, heartwarming ballad. A sultry and soulful romantic mood-setter with a slight touch of the blues featuring Paul Brown on guitar. King’s interaction with Brown’s trademark playing rolls like a dreamy, free-flowing harmonic conversation, complementing their world-class musicianship with dynamic riffing. ~ www.smoothjazz.com

D. S. Wilson - Skyline

Throughout his multi-faceted career, saxophonist D.S. Wilson has played and recorded rock, pop and blues, sometimes with Grammy-nominated artists and producers. On a dynamic roll since turning his creative juices towards funky Smooth Jazz in 2018, the vibrant recording artist has released two acclaimed albums and singles that have earned the praise of prominent radio programmers and Spotify playlist curators alike. On his latest, “Life With You,” the second single from his upcoming Skyline project, you’ll hear why… Showcasing funky grooves and soulful sax melody, along with deep, joyful emotion and crisp horn licks. Interestingly, the track originated from a song idea Wilson recorded on a hand-held Roland MIDI sequencer he recently rediscovered and developed into this compelling performance track with world-class supporting musicians. Keep an eye on this fast-rising sax star, we anticipate lots more to come! ~ www.smoothjazz.com

Jim Allchin - Costa Azul

As a master computer scientist, Jim Allchin helped create and grow the server business which is one of Microsoft’s largest enterprises. When not impacting the world with his networking, languages and operating systems innovations, he was writing incredible music. He charted #1 often on the Roots and Blues charts - and now, on his latest album Costa  Azul, co-produced with Grammy nominee Yaron Fuchs, he’s created another winner. It’s fresh, sensual with an intoxicating blend of Latin-tinged Smooth Jazz influenced by the classic rhythms of the son montuno, mambo, guajira, bolero and flamenco. Also passionate about his work with education in African countries, Allchin conceived the album during personal reflection time during COVID, when he began listening anew to songs he penned while on his travels. ~ www.smoothjazz.com

Dee Lucas - Hot Ice

Eight years after his album Rebirth of the Smooth, saxophonist Dee Lucas’s bio page reminds us that like a fresh baptism of whimsical funk, he’s all about  creating a “Rebirth of Smooth Jazz” every time out. On his latest single, he’s feeling some intense yet cool “Hot Ice” in the wake of his across the board #1 hit “Full Tilt” featuring Blake Aaron and a 2022 Soul Café Radio Indie Soul Awards nomination. The title may be a hipster oxymoron, but Lucas makes perfect infectious sense of it, creating ultra-melodic and rhythmic flow with co-writer and guitarist Adam Hawley, the wildly adventurous pianist Gino Rosaria and the tight, deep pocket low end of bassist Mel Brown and drummer Eric Valentine.  It’s cool to the ear, but hot to the groove! ~ www.smoothjazz.com

New Music: Luxury Soul 2022, Sarah Brown, Doomcannon, Ten Meter Band

Luxury Soul 2022 (3CD set)

Plenty of luxury, and plenty of soul – as you'll be living like a king with this well-priced set – a massive batch of music in one 3CD collection, and a heck of a lot more enjoyable than trawling the internet for underground soul songs you might have missed! This long-running series always serves up the best in contemporary soul – and has a way of bringing together tracks from a variety of global sources, in a way that reminds us that if you know where to look, you'll find that the spirit of well-crafted soul music is alive and well in the 21st Century! And given that some of the artists here exist in a world that's often digital-only, the CD collection makes things even more essential than before – as there's a number of tracks here that make their first-ever appearance in a physical format. Titles include "For This Love" by The Paradise Projex, "Be The Change (Michele Chiavarini rmx)" by Jarrod Lawson, "Get Down Saturday Night" by Full Flava with Chantay Savage, "Sorry Bout Bein A Ghost (Ghosted rmx)" by Sherree Brown, "In The Thick Of It" by Ernie & The Family McKone with Valerie Etienne, "No Matter How Far" by Maurice J, "Love In A Groove" by Raja Nee, "Loving You The Best That I Can" by Marlo Wells, "U & Eye" by Marshella Musik, "There's No One Like You" by Point Of Vu, "Time" by Deborah Bond, "Gimme Tonight" by Down To Earth, "90s Love (Realm rmx)" by Jane Handcock, "Lightness Of Love" by Alvin Garrett with Kim Scott, "Fine As Gold (T-Groove rmx)" by Christopher Williams, "I Gotta Pinch Myself" by Frank McComb & Kathy Kosins, and "A Little Love" by Julian Jonah with Lucita Jules. ~ Dusty Groove

Sarah Brown - Sarah Brown Sings Mahalia Jackson

Sarah Brown's no stranger to the music business, as she's sung backgrounds with a number of big artists – but this set marks her long-overdue debut – and has a quality level that will definitely have Brown shining a lot more in the spotlight in years to come! As you might guess from the title, the tunes are all from the songbook of legendary gospel singer Mahalia Jackson – but the presentation here is very down to earth, and feels more like a small combo soul or jazz session overall – at a level that offers a really strong focus on Sarah's vocals, which have a hell of a lot of spirit of their own, even before the lyrics of the tunes take hold! Titles include "Trouble Of The World", "Nobody Knows", "I'm On My Way", "Just A Closer Walk", "Didn't It Rain", "Summertime", and "Walk Over Heaven". ~ Dusty Groove

Doomcannon - Renaissance

A stunning debut from Doomcannon – a set that's billed as a love letter to his native London, and which bristles with the best sort of experimental energy of that city's contemporary scene! As with work from some of his contemporaries, Doomcannon has a way of taking jazz roots and pushing them way past conventional generic descriptions – handling most of the instruments here himself, in a blend of acoustic and electric elements – soaring drums one minute, a found sound the next, echoed by a moody keyboard line, or a dreamy trumpet solo – and opening the door to so many other elements along the way! Very much in the spirit of Chicago experiments from International Anthem, too – with titles that include "Thesis", "Amalgamation", "Black Liberation", "This Too", "Times", "Dark Ages", and "Entrance To The Unknown". ~ Dusty Groove

Ten Meter Band - Ten Meter Band

Ten Meter Band is a 7-piece instrumental Jazz-Rock Fusion group based in Toronto, Canada. Formed in 2014, they released their debut EP Living Room Black Box in 2016 and are now releasing their first full-length self-titled studio album on July 14th, 2022. With all original music featuring plenty of electric guitar and keyboards, along with a 3-piece horn section, this music is high-energy and made to make you dance. As a group, Ten Meter Band has performed regularly at venues across Toronto and Hamilton, including in 2018 when they played the main stage at the TD Toronto Undergraduate Jazz Festival. They are known for their tongue-in-cheek commentary on social media and speaking to their audience at shows, combined with a high-quality and serious approach to performing. They also have a YouTube channel with several music videos from their debut EP, which were all filmed live during recording. Ten Meter Band was formed at Humber College by a group of music students who played together on several recording projects. It went on to become a creative outlet for them as they pursued various careers in music. 

Freekbass & The Bump Assembly Announce 2022 Funk The World Tour

Freekbass & The Bump Assembly are  proud to announce the 2022 Funk The World Tour featuring Sammi Garett (formerly of Turkuaz). Freekbass & The Bump Assembly is a high-energy live show like no other. Part musical journey, part Ohio-Funk experience, everyone from bass guitar enthusiasts, to Funk and Live music fans will want to plan a party around this show when it comes to their town. The tour kicks off in Youngstown, OH on July 22 and will head through Denver, Chicago, and more before concluding in Freekbass’ hometown of Cincinnati on September 10. 

Freekbass has cemented himself as a groundbreaking bass player and funk guru. His innovative styling including his signature double thumb strumming technique has garnered critical acclaim and a cult fan following. Hailed by the legendary Bootsy Collins as “the new spiritual warrior for the funk,” Freekbass has graced stages across the country and has been a staple in the festival and touring circuit. His notable performances have taken place alongside Bernie Worrell, Umphrey’s McGee, Turkuaz, Dumpstaphunk, George Porter Jr., Buckethead, DJ Logic and Mike Gordon.

 Amidst the disruption of live music over the last couple of years, Freekbass kept the music moving forward by releasing a single & video a month throughout the shutdown from 2020-2021. During this time he collaborated and released music with musicians such as Stefan Lessard (DMB), Billy Sheehan, Doug Wimbish (Living Colour), Eric Nally (Foxy Shazam), Gary Mudbone Cooper (P-Funk / Bootsy’s Rubberband), and Karina Rykman. Many of these songs, and others from that period will be making their debut live. 

The Bump Assembly is comprised of Sammi Garett on vocals (Formerly with Turkuaz), Dione Howard on drums, Reilly Comisar on vocals, and for select dates: Nate Lewis on guitar (Ernie Johnson from Detroit), and Craig Brodhead on guitars & keys ( formerly of Turkuaz). In addition to Freekbass songs, The Bump Assembly set will include some of Sammi's new material, also. Sammi Garett is currently releasing her solo singles which are produced and mixed by Freekbass.

 When Freekbass is not on the road, you can always find him live-streaming on his new Twitch channel, http://twitch.tv/freekbass. On “Live Grooves with Freekbass,” Freekbass creates new bass guitar-centric grooves and songs on each stream, along with the participation of the chat/audience. 

You won’t want to miss the infectious energy that is showcased in a Freekbass & The Bump Assembly live show. Freekbass states, “Recordings are the blueprint/ template for the live show. With Funk & Dance music, the Live Medium always takes these songs created in a studio to a higher level.” Catch the Funk The World Tour here and listed below. 

Tour Dates

• July 22 - Youngstown, OH - Westside Bowl
• July 28 - Fort Collins, CO - 830 North
• July 29 - Steamboat Springs, CO - Schmiggity's
• July 30 - Denver, CO - Knew Conscious  
• August 5 - Pagosa Springs, CO - Motel SOCO
• August 11 - Chicago, IL - HVAC Pub
• August 12 - Ferndale, MI - Otus Supply
• August 18 - Ashbury Park, NJ - Wonder Bar 
• August 19 - Harrisburg, PA - XL Live
• September 2 - Kempton, PA - Karnival Of The Arts Festival
• September 10 - Cincinnati, OH - Riverfront Live

Paul Brown | "Promised Land"

Some say that there is a boundary line to art but few true artists and visionaries conform to that notion. It is no surprise that two-time Grammy-winning guitarist and producer extraordinaire Paul Brown cites both Jerry Garcia and Wes Montgomery as founding influences. Brown, who has amassed 75 #1 Contemporary Jazz radio hits and who has engineered for R&B divas Aretha Franklin and Diana Ross, is somewhat of a free-spirited musical chameleon who comes by it honestly. "I grew up listening to rock and blues and my parents were jazz musicians, so I heard a lot of that music in the house," reflects Brown. "I have always loved soul music and have worked as a producer with many greats like Luther Vandross, Al Jarreau and George Benson." July 15, 2022 Shanachie Entertainment will release Paul Brown's second recording for the label, Promised Land. "The music is very free and open," confides the guitar wizard who took advantage of the downtime the pandemic presented. "There wasn’t the normal pressure to make 'hit' songs. Instead it was more of a 'let’s take this time we’ve been more or less forced into and write and record some great music." Brown's relaxed and organic approach resulted in one of his strongest and most authentic recordings to date. The ten-track uplifting and jubilant sonic journey unites Brown with an all-star Contemporary Jazz line up including labelmates Marion Meadows and Euge Groove, as well as Shane Theriot, Jeff Carruthers and others. Danny Weiss, Shanachie Entertainment’s Vice President of Jazz A&R states, "Before launching his career as an artist, Paul Brown absolutely dominated the Contemporary Jazz format as its premier producer. Now, amazingly, he has achieved great heights as a solo artist as well. We're honored to be associated with him!"

Promised Land opens with the insatiable and soulful groove of "Secret Sauce," the album's first single. The inviting track is a sumptuous mix of Brown's bluesy chops and crisp guitar lines, flanked by the Memphis-styled and swinging horns of Greg Vail and Ron King. Brown admits that the funky ditty provided ample fun for him to play over. The show-stopping "Hey Dude" pairs Brown with Shane Theriot who plays bass, keys and rhythm guitar. The duo let it all hang out as they concoct a winning trifecta of country-grit, rock-edge and down-home blues. Brown describes "Hey Dude" as a “smooth Beatles type homage.” Brown collaborates with Joe Wolfe on the scintillating and percussive "Wolfpack," while the ballad "Elegance," co-written with Jeff Carruthers, creates a moment of serenity, offering a gorgeous and melodious affair that shines a light on Brown's effortless, tasteful and flawless soloing. It is almost as if Brown is singing through his hypnotic guitar lines. "I do approach solos and basic melodies from a singing perspective," admits the Sherman Oaks- based guitarist. “Since my folks were both singers I guess it was inevitable. I like quirky singers like Ry Cooder and Bob Dylan, much to the dismay of my parents," chuckles the guitarist, adding that he is also a Sinatra fan. Paul puts his own vocal chops to the test on the album's title track written by Shane Theriot. "Shane is one of the best musicians that I have ever known. We've collaborated on many projects and have become great friends. He lives in New Orleans and he decided to rent my guest house about two years ago. He wrote "Promised Land” about the change in life that would occur if he did move to LA. It’s not only about the geographical place but also the mental state one has to get into to change directions in your life so dramatically. We are all evolving as musicians and people. I was lucky enough to be born and raised here in LA, the promised land of creativity."

Two highlights on Promised Land join Paul Brown with two of his Shanachie brothers, saxophonists Marion Meadows and Euge Grove. Meadows' agile and fluid soprano dances with Brown's buttery smooth riffs on the relentless groove of "Don't Stop" which also features Lew Laing on bass, keys and drums. Brown and Euge Groove have created numerous hits with one another as Brown has produced a total of eight albums for the saxophonist. This time around Brown's wizardry is in full effect on the R&B-laced and dance-inducing "7 and 7." Their telepathic call and response and joyous interplay is an album highlight. The Latin-tinged "Yo Tengo" find Brown on vocals and guitar for this festive, percussive and super-charged fiesta. Brown and company beckons us to "Da Spot" for the feel-good romp, where everything sounds just right. The soulful affair raises the roof as the horns of Ron King and Greg Vail have an unforgettable musical conversation with Brown’s spirited riffs answering back to perfect effect. Promised Land comes to a finale with Brown’s blues drenched collaboration with Shane Theriot entitled “Round and Round.” After all is said and done Promised Land delivers on every front. 

“Music is my spirituality and has been my entire life. Everyday I’m either writing, playing, recording or performing and I’m still loving it,” confesses Paul Brown. Born in Los Angeles to musician parents who sang with Mel Tormé, Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley, among others, Brown started playing drums at age five and picked up his first guitar two years later. His influences are as far reaching as Wes Montgomery, Peter Gabriel and Johnny “Guitar” Watson. Brown has been a foundational artist in Contemporary Jazz from since the late 80s. As accomplished as Brown is center stage as a guitarist, he is equally revered for his Midas touch as a producer. Brown’s inaugural recording for Shanachie was Love You Found Me in 2010 followed by Soul Searchin’ with Larry Carlton in 2021. Promised Land is Paul Brown’s 12th album as a leader.  Brown plays a mix of guitars on Promised Land including his Stratocaster and his beloved Gibson L5. "The guitar that really changed things for me as an artist is the Gibson L5," explains Brown. "I got it in 1993. I started recording melodies to songs I was writing for other artists and they started to sound like a solo artist all of a sudden in 2004. That guitar turned out to be my soul mate!"

Paul Brown has managed to take us to the mountaintop to see the Promised Land, but for Paul there are still many more miles to log. "I love music and enjoy helping other artists recording and building their careers…there’s rhythm and melody to everything in life. It's cool identifying and finding those rhythms and melodies," concludes Brown. "In the end I just try to be positive. Like my Mom always told me, “Reach for the stars!"

Blake Aaron | "Dreamland"

Guitarist Blake Aaron is living the dream. Writing, producing, recording and performing music all over the world at the highest level, he just notched his fifth Billboard number one single as a solo artist. The scintillating summer smash that he wrote with chart-topper Adam Hawley, “Dreamland” went number one on five national charts simultaneously: Billboard, Groove Jazz Music, Mediabase, Radiowave and Smooth Jazz Network. The Innervision Records single is the second consecutive release to go number one from Aaron’s forthcoming seventh album, “Love and Rhythm.”    

“I set out to create a song that captures the imagination, excitement, fun and unbridled curiosity of a dream come true," said Aaron whose dexterous electric jazz guitar was accompanied on the energizing track by Hawley (rhythm guitar and keyboards), drummer Eric Valentine (who recently topped the Billboard chart with his own single), bassist Mel Brown, saxophonist and horn arranger David Mann, and trumpeter Trevor Neumann.    

Together, Aaron and Hawley scored a number one last year with Aaron’s single “Sunday Strut,” which topped four charts, including Billboard. Although Aaron has produced number one singles for himself as well as for other artists, he realizes the benefits of teaming with Hawley, a consistent chart-topper both as a solo artist and as a producer.

“Working with another Billboard number one producer inspired ideas and concepts that I may not have thought of on my own. Having a writing and production partner whom I respect but has a different style than mine opens up new musical and creative doors through different approaches and compromises. Utilizing a producer to challenge an artist to go to another level with an idea they may have thought was already ‘making the cut’ or conversely, encouraging the artist to run with an idea they were ready to throw out, can take the song in a whole new direction,” said Aaron.

Aaron hopes to continue the success that he and Hawley share by collaborating. In May, they locked themselves away in Hawley’s studio and didn’t emerge until they recorded rough mixes for two more singles.  

“In the internet age when most artists are collaborating online, Adam and I have found a certain magic of writing ‘old school’ by actually meeting in the studio, locking the door and not leaving until we have a fully recorded rough mix of a hit single,” said Aaron who plans to drop the next single crafted during their recent session on September 19.

Aaron has a proven track record of recording more than a handful of hit singles before bundling them as an album. Initially, it was an approach that came out of necessity for the time crunched artist – he’s also a first-call studio musician who has composed and produced music for television and film – but as the music industry has changed and evolved, now it’s a chosen path that helps him reach more listeners via Spotify. The coronavirus quarantine allowed him time to finish and release his last album, “Color and Passion,” in 2020, which spawned three Billboard number one singles.

“We’ll probably have enough music ready to release ‘Love and Rhythm’ next year.”   

Catch Blake Aaron on tour in the following cities (additional dates may be added):

• August 20 | Tyron, NC - Mountain Brook Vineyards Wine & Jazz Fest
• August 21|San Diego, CA - Humphrey’s Backstage Live
• August 27 | Melbourne, FL - The Maxwell C. King Center
• August 28 | Largo, FL - Central Park Performing Arts Center
• September 5 | Atlanta, GA - City Winery Atlanta
• September 10 | Oxnard, CA - Oxnard Jazz Festival
• September 11 | Temecula, CA - Rhythm on the Vine Concert Series
• October 20 | Avalon, CA - Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival
• October 23 | Galveston, TX - BillyRay Sheppard’s Smooth Jazz Cruise
• October 31 | Sa Coma, Spain - Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival        

 

Rick Scott

JOHN COLTRANE INTERNATIONAL JAZZ AND BLUES FESTIVAL

An exceptional array of artists will deliver electrifying performances at the 11th Annual John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival, led by Patti LaBelle, Christian McBride with Inside Straight, Chris Botti, and Kirk Whalum with Keiko Matsui. The annual event will be held over Labor Day weekend at Oak Hollow Park, Sept. 3-4, 2022.

Having been on the music scene for more than 60 years, LaBelle will headline the Saturday lineup. The two-time Grammy Award-winner led the Bluebelles in the 1960s, the groundbreaking group LaBelle in the 1970s, and has maintained an enduring solo career since the 80s. Her latest music venture is the jazz album "Bel Hommage," released on her own label, GPE Records.

Eight-time Grammy Award-winner and acclaimed jazz bassist Christian McBride is the co-headliner for Saturday with his band Inside Straight. They are at the pinnacle of performing mainstream jazz in a live venue. Members of Inside Straight are pianist Peter Martin, vibraphonist Warren Wolf, saxophonist Steve Wilson, and drummer Carl Allen. Six musicians play as the Masters of Smooth ensemble. Soprano saxophonist Marion Meadows, pianist composer Alex Bugnon, celebrated six string bass player Gerald Veasley, saxophonist Jessy J, Poogie Bell on the drums, and Karyn White, who recorded the smash hit female anthem "Superwoman."

Two Grammy Award-winning artists who have each embraced the cultural resonance of their homelands will add the rhythms of Latin Jazz to the Saturday lineup. Puerto Rican-born pianist and composer Marlow Rosado will be joined by Cuban vocalist and songwriter Aymée Nuviola to add a distinguishing facet to the festival's musical offering.

Chris Botti, the Grammy Award-winning and multi-platinum-selling trumpeter whose live shows have made him a worldwide sensation, will headline the Sunday lineup. He has cross-genre skills and the ability to set an ambiance with everything from jazz to pop to rock.

Saxophonist Kirk Whalum and pianist Keiko Matsui will perform together blending their musical panache. Whalum brings together elements of gospel, blues, and jazz while Matsui utilizes space in her music to create a backdrop of drama and tension.

For a blues counterpoint the legendary rust belt bluesman, Larry McCray is on the Sunday lineup. Known for his singing and rousing guitar style, McCray was one of the first to blend elements of blues, rock, and soul into a new sound.

Eclecticism incarnate is drummer Cindy Blackman Santana. She has toured the globe and made albums with diverse artists including Pharoah Sanders, John Medeski, Lenny Kravitz, and her husband Carlos Santana.

The John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival (JCIJBF) honors Coltrane, a High Point, NC, native son who graduated from William Penn High School, now Penn Griffin School of the Arts. Ticket information and festival details are available at coltranejazzfest.com.

Horace Andy | "Midnight Scorchers"

Horace Andy has remained a much-loved figure in a musical career stretching over 50 years, but in recent times has perhaps been more lauded for his work as a guest vocalist for Massive Attack, and touring a live set built on his rich catalogue of 1970s Jamaican hits. The Midnight Rocker album, carefully assembled by producer Adrian Sherwood with Horace over the course of several years, and released earlier in 2022, put the great singer back front and centre as a contemporary artist. Released to rave reviews across the board, including the Guardian putting it top of their albums of the year so far, and lauding it as a “late career masterpiece”, the album is now into it’s fifth pressing and continues to disappear from the racks at record shops across the globe.  

The Midnight Scorchers album takes the story one step further, with dubplate style re-rubs (including microphone contributions from Lone Ranger and Daddy Freddy); songs that didn’t quite fit into the ‘Rockers’ sequence but are allowed a chance to shine on this new set; and fresh mixes that allow the striking arrangements to take rhythmic flight. In the same way as the music has been re-imagined, so has the artwork, with award-winning animator Ruff Mercy (Goriilaz, Earl Sweatshirt, Thom Yorke) putting a streetstyle graffiti spin on things, also in evidence in his psychedelic and colourful video for first single “Feverish”, a massive new version of one of Horace Andy’s Studio One era classics.  

An essential second half of the ‘Rockers and Scorchers’ story, the album is a must listen for hardcore reggae fans and open-minded music lovers alike.  

Horace Andy Live dates: 

• 17/07/2022 - Horace Andy Live at ‘Lambeth Country Show’, Brockwell Park, Brixton
• 30/07/2022 - Horace Andy live at Manchester Reggae Festival
• 31/07/2022 - Horace Andy Live at Milton Keynes Reggae Festival
• 13/08/2022 - Horace Andy, Jonny Clarke, and Burning Spear Live, Birmingham Forum
• 14/08/2022 - Horace Andy, Jonny Clarke, and Burning Spear Live, Brixton Academy, London
• 20/08/2022 - Horace Andy at Rototom Sunsplash festival, Spain 

Adrian Sherwood Live dates: 

• 06/08/2022 - Reggae Geel festival, Geel, Belgium
• 22/08/2022 - Contrapop Festival, Ramsgate, UK
• 03/09/2022 - Headline Show, Con Con Club, Lewes, UK
• 22/10/2022 - LEDX, Bologna, Italy

Horace Andy was born as Horace Hinds on February 19, 1951 in Kingston, Jamaica. Andy, also known as "Sleepy," has become an enduring voice on the Jamaican music scene. His signature early 1970s hit, "Skylarking," defined his ability to deliver songs of black determination and social commentary, but he could equally deliver songs of love.  

Andy worked with producer George "Phil" Pratt on his first single, "This Is a Black Man's Country," in 1967. His cousin, Justin Hinds, was starting to enjoy some success at that time, but Andy would not gain notice until working with noted Jamaican producer Clement "Coxsone" Dodd in 1970. "Got To Be Sure” became his first release for Studio One, Dodd's studio. Dodd gave him the stage name of Horace Andy - a reference to popular singer Bob Andy. With Dodd, Andy went on to record "See A Man's Face," the well-received "Mr. Bassie" and the breakthrough hit "Skylarking," among other songs. "Skylarking," which encouraged wayward youth to clean up their act, was released as a single and topped the Jamaican record charts, becoming a signature tune for Andy. 

Although American R&B singers were Andy's early influences, he also comments: “I wanted to be like Jimi Hendrix, to play the guitar like him! I didn't see myself as having a great voice. I didn't know I'd be a great singer." 

Andy has consistently recorded and performed around the world, and has remained relevant in reggae subgenres such as roots reggae, rock steady, lover's rock and dancehall, recording with some of the all time great reggae producers including Bunny “Striker” Lee, Niney Holness, Tapper Zukie, Lloyd Barnes and Steely & Clevie. 

In 1990, he was discovered by the Bristol based trip-hop band Massive Attack, who cited Andy's work as a major influence. He recorded the song "One Love" for their 1991 debut album ‘Blue Lines’, and the band's popularity exposed Andy to a younger generation of fans, many of whom continue to seek out his earlier work. After Massive Attack launched their own label, Melankolic, they released Skylarking, a compilation of Andy's career hits. Andy is the only singer of Massive Attack's rotating group of guest artists to appear on each one of the band's albums. He also appeared on the British group Dub Pistols' 2001 album ‘Six Million Ways to Live’, and on the Easy Star All-Stars' 2006 Radiohead tribute ‘Radiodread’. 

“Someone once described me as just a fan who’d got his hands on a mixing desk, They were probably trying to be nasty, but I took it as a compliment – that’s exactly what I am!” 

For over 40 years now, forward-thinking sound scientist and mixologist Adrian Sherwood has been dubbing it up, keeping the faith when others have fallen away and blowing minds and speakers alike. 

Producer, remixer, and proprietor of the British dub collective/record label On-U Sound,  Adrian Sherwood has long been regarded as one of the most innovative and influential artists in contemporary dance and modern reggae music. His talent for creating musical space, suspense, sensations and textures have enabled him to pioneer a distinctive fusion of dub, rock, reggae and dance that challenges tradition not only in roots circles, but also in the pop world at large. 

“I’d rather try and create a niche amongst like-minded people, and create our own little market place be that 5, 50 or 500,000 sales and also be true to our principles of making things, and to your own spirit that you put into the work.” 

Born in 1958, Sherwood first surfaced during the mid ’70s and formed On-U Sound in 1981. While the On-U Sound crew’s original focus was on live performances, the emphasis soon switched to making records and Sherwood began mixing and matching lineups, resulting in new acts including New Age Steppers, African Head Charge, Mark Stewart & Maffia, and Doctor Pablo & the Dub Syndicate. 

All of these early records, according to Rock: The Rough Guide were “phenomenal, generally bass-heavy with outlandish dubbing from Sherwood, who worked the mixing desk as an instrument in itself.” 

Long influential and innovative on the UK reggae scene, Sherwood’s distinctive production style soon began attracting interest from acts outside of the dub community and by the early-’80s Sherwood was among the most visible producers and remixers around, working on tracks for artists as varied as Depeche Mode, Primal Scream, Einsturzende Neubaten, Simply Red, the Woodentops, and Ministry. He became increasingly involved in industrial music as the decade wore on, producing tracks for Cabaret Voltaire, Skinny Puppy, KMFDM, and Nine Inch Nails, and although On-U Sound continued to reflect its leader’s eclectic tastes, the label remained a top reggae outlet. 

In 2003 he launched his solo artist career with Never Trust a Hippy, which was followed in 2006 by Becoming a Cliché. Both were released by On-U in conjunction with the Real World label. 

Still one of the most sought-after producers in the contemporary music industry, Adrian Sherwood and his progressive style and interest in developing new ideas continue to propel On-U Sound’s ongoing success. In 2012 he issued his third solo album Survival & Resistance, and began an ongoing collaboration with Bristol-based dubstep don Pinch. This brought two different generations of bass together and in 2015 the pair released their debut album Late Night Endless. Behind the mixing desk he has been working with the likes of Spoon, Roots Manuva and Nisennenmondai; and delivered remixes of Halsey, Congo Natty and Django Django. His production and remix works has also begun to be anthologised by On-U Sound with the critically acclaimed Sherwood At The Controls series. 

“Music is lovely because it stimulates people, superficial music doesn’t. If you make something that you put your heart and soul into and really try to push it so it leaps out the speakers at you, and if there’s a good feel to it, then you’ve achieved something.”

 

Carol Welsman | "Pick Yourself Up"

A song that can be deemed a timeless classic is a member of an elite and limited club for very good reason. They’re the songs that can transcend all the trends, and connect with and captivate listeners across generations. Internationally acclaimed jazz artist Carol Welsman has picked up a very timeless classic, dusted it off, polished it up, and is starting it all over again for a new audience. “Pick Yourself Up” is available now!

Ahead of the September 9th release of her 14th album, appropriately titled 14, Welsman is giving us the gift of her warm, infectious interpretation of “Pick Yourself Up”, a song that may have been written nearly 100 years ago — but the relevance of its message and affinity for its melody never dims. Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers first introduced the song in 1936 in one of their timeless musicals, “Swing Time”. Since then, it has been recorded over the years by a cavalcade of greats including Ella Fitzgerald, Anita O’Day, Frank Sinatra, Mel Tormé, and Gregory Porter. However, it was Nat King Cole who first really popularized the song and Welsman targeted Cole’s 1962 recording of “Pick Yourself Up” with George Shearing as her definitive template.

“It’s a beautiful arrangement by George Shearing, which he recorded with Nat King Cole years ago,” notes Welsman. “It was so inspiring, I lifted it note for note and we re-produced it as a trio featuring Pierre Côté on guitar, Rémi-Jean LeBlanc on bass, and yours truly on piano and vocals.”

From the first familiar and self-assured notes, Welsman’s lovingly faithful take on “Pick Yourself Up” displays her keen ability to put a personal frame around a jazz standard masterpiece. 

Following the six-time JUNO nominee’s May release of “Come Fly With Me”, “Pick Yourself Up” is the second of three pre-release singles before 14 is unveiled on September 9th via Justin Time Records. Co-produced by internationally renowned producer, composer, and arranger Romano Musumurra, 14 features Welsman’s exquisite and intimate piano/vocal work alongside the simple, straightforward accompaniment of guitar, bass, and occasional drums.

“It is truly a jazz album,” states Welsman.

Welsman is returning to those straight-ahead jazz roots as she follows up her 13th album, 2020’s Dance With Me, a Latin Jazz record featuring a duet with Dominican superstar Juan Luis Guerra that was added to Spotify’s 900,000 listener-strong Latin playlist. It’s another wonderful achievement layered on top of scoring two #1 selling albums of the year in Japan, 2016’s For You and 2019’s Volume 2, This is Carol - Jazz Beauties. In 2010, Welsman’s album I Like Men - Reflections of Miss Peggy Lee was voted Top 5 Album of the Year for all genres in USA Today. 

Music is definitely in the Toronto-born, L.A.-based artist’s blood. She is the granddaughter of Frank Welsman, founder and first conductor of the Toronto Symphony Orchestra, and she’s a “distinguished alumnus” of the Berklee College of Music. Welsman speaks French, Italian, and Spanish fluently — and has recorded in all three languages. She’s also an accomplished and prolific songwriter with songs recorded by the likes of Celine Dion, Ray Charles, and Chrissie Hynde. On stage, Welsman has performed internationally in trio, big band, and pops orchestra formats and has played for/with such luminaries as Stevie Wonder, Gordon Lightfoot, Herbie Hancock, and former U.S. President Bill Clinton.

Perhaps legendary American Film Critic and Welsman fan Rex Reed sum up her allure the best. “Blessed with so many musical gifts—taste, time, projection, and a rhythmic sense of when to change chords—Carol’s piano is beyond reproach, warm yet rhythmically sharp, giving her voice a perfect hammock of support to swing in.” 

There’s much more of that on the way as Carol Welsman releases 14 on Sept. 9th.

Catia Dignard | "Safekeeping"

If music is what feelings sound like, then songwriters have a special all-access pass to emotional catharsis; Canadian Jazz-Folk singer-songwriter Catia Dignard has taken beautiful advantage of that to let go of long-held grief with her moving new single, “Safekeeping” — available now. 

All at once ethereal, haunting, and intimately personal, “Safekeeping” explores and resolves the residual sorrow that Dignard has held close since the untimely loss of her father in the late ‘80s. Dignard was just 17 when she received the shocking and traumatic news that her father had suddenly died.

“‘Safekeeping’ is about saying goodbye when you were not able to at the time,” explains the Montréal-born, Toronto-based artist. “This time around, with the song, I didn’t want to miss my chance.”

Two years of isolation caused by our global pandemic provided the circumstances and time for Dignard to focus inward to bring some deep, precious pain to the surface in musical form. 

“‘Safekeeping’ was brewing inside during the latter part of the pandemic,” she recalls, “a time that was conducive to introspection and during which I felt that I had a lot of ‘unfinished business’ with myself, still carrying the sorrow and guilt from this fateful day towards the end of the ‘80s when I received the news of the sudden passing of my father.”

With a contemplative piano progression supporting a lush, rich horn section and Dignard’s wistful vocals delivered with a touch of melancholy, “Safekeeping” travels a definitive path along the emotional spectrum right between solemn despair and unbridled hope.

“During the whole process I didn’t want to compromise on the mood that this music would convey,” explains Dignard, “which meant striking a balance between darkness and light.”

It turns out that Dignard’s quest to be true to this artistic vision would be an international one. She says the stars aligned last March when she started working with Franklin, Tennessee-based saxophonist, singer-songwriter, composer, and multi-instrumentalist Dick Aven. She had met Aven a year prior through both participating with the artistic community of Isaac Banks, an Australian radio DJ, and owner of Banks Radio Australia. Rising up to the challenge of long-distance collaboration, Dignard and Aven hit it off creatively very quickly during their first video writing session.

“After just a few minutes, Dick turned around and struck some chords on the piano while I started singing ‘my thang’ to him from Toronto,” remembers Dignard. 

The musical chemistry was palpable. 

“Dick became my arranger and producer for ‘Safekeeping’, playing almost all instruments, except for fretless bass played by Nashville-based Roy Vogt.”

Networking and finding like-minded and talented international musicians to create with is a hallmark of Dignard’s artistic journey. Prior to “Safekeeping”, Dignard released “Rather” in June 2021, a collaboration with a stellar group of Havana, Cuba-based musicians including guitarist-producer Miguel Ángel Wong, recorded at Manane Records Studios in Playa, Havana.

Traveling and soaking up global influences to shape and inform her music is an extension of Dignard’s early life. With Acadian heritage and having lived in Latin America and North Africa during her childhood, Dignard draws continued inspiration from the sea and her travels. 

Musical and academic education has also gone hand in hand for Dignard. While studying vocal jazz under the tutelage of Catherine Bastarache and Marie Vallée and attending multiple workshops and musical camps in Québec and Europe in the early 2000s, Dignard was also pursuing a second university degree. During this time, she also gained performing experience as lead vocalist for jazz guitar virtuoso Mike Gauthier’s combos at Bishop’s University and participated in Kim Richardson’s jazz jams at Montréal’s Dièse Onze club.

These formative years encouraged Dignard to start writing and recording her own compositions with her partner, double bassist Jean-François Martel. That led to collaborations with trumpet player Maxime St-Pierre, guitarist Louis Trudel, Cuban pianist, and JUNO nominee Rafael Zaldivar and the recording of Dignard’s debut album, Strange Coziness, released in 2018. 

Since then, Dignard’s music has found its way to Canadian radio with airplay on CFLX in Sherbrooke, Québec, and CIUT in Toronto, as well as international airplay in the U.S., U.K., and Australia.

Now settled in the very internationally influenced city of Toronto, Dignard also recently collaborated and performed with Toronto-based funk-rock and soul band Bad Breed at the Canadian Music Week and Bloom online music festivals. This while pursuing a Ph.D. in Hispanic Studies at the University of Toronto and currently working on more new music for release in the fall of 2022.

Even with these very busy, tandem creative and educational paths to follow, Dignard knew the time was right for a musical pit stop to wrap up the very significant ‘unfinished business’ of coming to terms with loss and finding peace with the feelings she had been holding close, in ‘safekeeping’.

“We all have these tales of missed opportunities, of regrets, of these things left unsaid,” notes Dignard. “I also feel that there was a lot of love and dedication put into this piece, as all those involved were aware of what it represented for me.”

Keisha Martin | "I Can't Forget You"

A bold and spirited take in Reggae music, Keisha Martin’s newest track is a striking blend of song writing and rhythms. Titled “I Can’t Forget You”, the heartening new single was written and produced by two-time Grammy Award-nominated Grammy winner recording artists amd multi instrumentalist Maurice Gregory and is slated for release on July 29th, 2022.

An intense, exciting, and inviting new track, “I Can’t Forget You” represents a flavorful twist in the artist discography. A hip multi instumentalist, Keisha Martin is not known to shy away from unbridled self-expression, using her musical talents to create a soulful and passionate composition for her audiences.

Establishing her own spirited, passionate and thoroughly heartfelt presence, the dedicated singer-songwriter’s music allows listeners to live free and vicariously. “I Can’t Forget You” emanates a unique energy, soul, and sound- characteristic of the rising, phenomenal reggae artist.

The eclectic artist has graced the Reggae and Soul genre with several hip songs such as: “Rocksteady”, “Who Could It Be”, “Real Life Superwoman” “So Good” and her latest track titled “I Can’t Forget You”  which she only recently unveiled.

Passionate about earnestly creating mediums of entertainment, Keisha Martin continues to surprise audiences with her adaptive skills and experimental techniques, while also excelling in whichever spotlight she desires. Like several contemporary talented artists, Keisha began her singing career at a young age in the church choir. With time, the artist embellished her craft as both a singer and songwriter and took the bold step of venturing out in unexplored endeavors.

Keisha’s many accolades include featuring on the theme song of the TLC network reality TV show “Starter Wives Confidential”. She has also graced the stage with artists such as Black Uhuru, Mykal Rose, Melisa Morgan, Gerald Alston, Marcia Griffiths, Ken Booth Dean Frazier, Shaggy, Gyptian, Taurus Riley, Kymani Marley, and several others.

Don’t forget to feel the vibes and check out her latest track “So Good” on her official music platforms! The talented artist can be reached out through her social media platforms as well.

Based in New York City, Keisha Martin hails from the beautiful and idyllic island sanctuary of Jamaica. Keisha is a successful singer and songwriter, who has also showcased her incredible talents as an actress, dancerm and philanthropist. She has worked alongside Jamaican actor Cleve “chu chu” Warren and has also had the honor of working with world-renowned producers on various artistic projects, including Todd Terry, Robert Livingston (Big Yard) Dee Nucka and Self Maurice Gregory .

However, more than simply entertainment, the dynamic artist remains devoted to her goals of giving back to society and never forgetting where she comes from. As the founder of “Artist Alliance for Education”, Keisha hosts an annual event in New York City called “Tools 4 School”, donating school supplies for underprivileged children in Jamaica and feeds the homeless.

Ricky Alan Draughn | "When You Love A Woman"

Advocating systemic change when civil unrest erupted in the midst of a pandemic and economic uncertainty two years ago, R&B-jazz balladeer Ricky Alan Draughn teamed with two-time Grammy nominated produced Chris “Big Dog” Davis (Norman Brown, Will Downing, Najee) and urban-jazz saxophonist Kim Waters to record a timely version of Sam Cooke’s poignant “A Change Is Gonna Come.” On the heels of the recent Supreme Court decision that impedes women’s rights, Draughn dropped another aptly timed musical statement, this one celebrating women in the form of the new single “When You Love A Woman,” produced by Billboard hitmaker Adam Hawley.

The 1988 power pop ballad written and recorded by Journey serves as Draughn’s source material. Anchored by the crooner’s emotive tenor vocals, Draughn belts out an impassioned salute amidst a throwback adult contemporary track featuring a grandiose gospel choir (Kevin Monroe & Devotion), sweeping strings and Hawley’s piercing electric guitar solo. The cinematic single illumined by cascading melodies and Draughn’s emotional fervor was one of the most added new singles last week on the Billboard BDS chart.        

“I wanted the song to celebrate women and to be played as a backdrop to honor that special female. I wanted to bring back a memory of simpler days with a refreshing reboot of a classic tune. I’ve always loved that 1980’s soft rock era, when a song had a lyrical composition that was just as impactful as the melody. ‘When You Love a Woman’ was such a song. We arranged the background vocals specifically to allow for general interpretation and not just for a romantic relationship. My hope is that the single becomes an anthem in the wake of women’s rights currently being threatened,” said Draughn, who released an accompanying video for the single directed by Edwin Escobar (https://bit.ly/3uR5lyU).

While the single is brand new, Draughn has been performing the song in concert with his twelve-piece band for years. He usually closes his sets with it, bringing down the house with his captivating performance, making it one of his most requested songs.

Tapping Hawley to bring his vision for “When You Love A Woman” to life proved to be a perfect match for Draughn. 

“Adam and I got together, and he was almost completing my thoughts. It was like we’ve known each other forever. He is an incredible musician and a pleasure to work with. As a result, the song came together very quickly. He understood the assignment, maintained the song's integrity and left the song intact, ready for my signature vocal arrangements. Adam brought in Carnell Harrell on synths and Dan Needham on drums, and it was magical - that timeless 80's sound was successfully captured,” said Draughn about the first single from his forthcoming debut album, “Genesis 8:5,” which he aims to release first quarter next year.  

Hawley is producing the majority of “Genesis 8:5,” including what Draughn expects will be his next single, “Relentless,” an upbeat original written by the singer that he describes as having “sort of a neo soul vibe, very danceable.” The album will be eclectic in terms of variety, reflecting Draughn’s stylistic range and sphere of influence. He’s composing most of the music although he anticipates there will also be several collaborations.

Mixing jazz, R&B, pop and gospel, Draughn emerged from singing with prominent gospel groups such as Mighty Clouds of Joy and Mississippi Mass Choir. He’s performed at marquee venues, from the Blue Note to the Apollo Theater, and has shared the stage with R&B, funk and jazz stars, including George Clinton, Chaka Khan, Shirley Murdock, Jodeci, The Whispers, Macy Gray, War, Nancy Wilson, Lou Rawls, Wilson Pickett, Marion Meadows and Alex Bugnon, among others.

 

New Music: Khari Cabral & Jiva, Lost In Sound – Rare Soul & Funk Essentials, Linda Sikhakhane, Natural Yogurt Band

Khari Cabral & Jiva - Five (with bonus track)

A long-overdue return for Khari and Jiva – the kind of pairing that first won us over to neo soul many years back – and sounding equally wonderful here! The album begins with a reworking of the James Mason classic "Good Thing" – and it only gets better and better from there – moving through the postive, sophisticated sort of music that Jiva gave us right from the start – that farther side of the contemporary soul spectrum where people are still making thoughtful, well-crafted sounds! The set includes vocals from Brenda Nicole Moorer, Cleveland Jones, Linsdey Webster, and Lizz Wright – and titles include James Mason tunes "Good Thing" and "Sweet Power Your Embrace" – plus "Show Me The Way", "Heaven's Design", "North Node", "Hard Times", "Capricorn City", and "Warm Heart". Japanese pressing also features the bonus track "More To Do". ~ Dusty Groove

Lost In Sound – Rare Soul & Funk Essentials

A really well-done collection – filled with enough funky gems to grab the ears of any sample-conscious listener, but also packing plenty of unusual numbers too – including a few Latin tracks that fit in perfectly with the spirit of the sound! A number of these cuts have definitely been sampled over the years – but as is always the case, the fuller tracks are often a lot more interesting than the riff or drum part that was taken from them – and together, the titles here show that there's always plenty to dig when you know how to dig deep – as you'll hear on titles that include "Home" by Gloria Barnes, "I'm Moving On" by Chyvonne Scott, "Natural Beauty" by LJ Waiters, "Afro Funky" by Manteca, "Something Bad" by The Chosen Few, "What Happened To Yesterday" by Al Scott, "Los Feligreses" by Luis Santi, "Every Boy & Girl" by Lee Moses, "Man Of Value" by Tyrone Barkley, "I'm Sorry I Hurt You" by Nat Phillips, and "Cookie Crumbs" by Ray & His Court.  ~ Dusty Groove

Linda Sikhakhane - Isambulo

Maybe not the first record from South African saxophonist Linda Sikhakhane, but a set that will definitely put him on the map – and make him one of the rising young stars of his nation's tremendous jazz legacy! Linda blows both tenor and soprano sax here, and has a sense of majesty that's incredible, given his young age – stepping out with a bold vision on a set of all original material that's woven together in a masterful tapestry of soul and sound! Some numbers echo older South African jazz rhythms, while others are more spiritual in presentation – and the blend of modes is wonderful throughout, as Sikhakhane works with players who include Lucca Fries on piano, Fabien Iannone on bass, and Jonas Ruther on drums. Titles include "Isambulo", "Umbhedesho", "Hymn For The Majors", "Gog'uldah", and "Inner Freedom Revisited". ~ Dusty Groove

Natural Yogurt Band - Dance The Devil Away

Maybe the trippiest album we've ever heard from the Natural Yogurt Band – and that's quite a statement, given how trippy most of their work has always been! But it's also been plenty darn funky too, and that's definitely the case here – as the tracks are held solid by the drums of Tom Dempsey – a monster on the kit, and a player whose straightforward funky lines allow all the other elements to take off and really get weird and wonderful – keyboards, fuzzy guitars, electronics, flute, vibes, and plenty other great touches too – served up in a monstrous style on titles that include "Follow The Leader", "Sticky Fingers", "Playing With Fire", "Beyond The Blue", "Green Frog", "Sacred Blood", and "Between Or Beyond". ~ Dusty Groove

Dr. John | "Things Happen That Way"

Growing up in New Orleans, Malcolm John “Mac” Rebennack, Jr. – known to countless music fans around the world as Dr. John – developed a deep and abiding love for traditional Gospel music that stayed with him throughout his lifetime. During his remarkable six-decade run as one of the most original, distinctive, and influential voices in popular music, Rebennack put his inimitable stamp on many spirituals and Gospel-influenced songs. 

During the sessions for Things Happen That Way, Rebennack invited a few old friends to lend their voices to the project. Among those who happily obliged was Willie Nelson, one of Mac’s close friends and most treasured musical collaborators. Today, their soul-stirring, exuberant rendition of the beloved Gospel standard “Gimme That Old Time Religion” is released. 

As Nelson observed, “Dr. John had the most unique musical style and language that would take me to another place whenever I heard him play and sing,”

Rebennack was planning future projects when his life was suddenly cut short in 2019. Now, three years after his untimely passing, in a world complicated by COVID-19, Things Happen That Way will see the light of day. The album, which features three brand new original compositions, a mesmerizing reworking of Dr. John’s 1968 classic “I Walk on Guilded Splinters, and new interpretations of songs by Willie Nelson, Cowboy Jack Clement, Hank Williams, and the Traveling Wilburys will be released on September 23. 

Things Happen That Way marks the fulfillment of a longtime goal of the six-time GRAMMY-winning singer/songwriter/pianist and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, who first began plotting a country-inspired album decades ago. In bringing his album’s songs to life, Dr. John drew on a lineup of musicians befitting of a universally beloved luminary. Along with an elite cadre of New Orleans session players, the album’s personnel include icons Nelson and Aaron Neville, and rising stars Lukas Nelson & Promise of the Real.  

Things Happen That Way Track Listing:

• Funny How Time Slips Awa
• Ramblin’ Man
• Gimme That Old Time Religion (feat. Willie Nelson) 
• I Walk On Guilded Splinters (feat. Lukas Nelson & Promise of The Real)
• I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry
• End Of The Line (feat. Aaron Neville)
• Holy Water
• Sleeping Dogs Best Left Alone
• Give Myself A Good Talkin’ To
• Guess Things Happen That Way

 

 

Jazz Funk Soul (Everette Harp, Jeff Lorber & Paul Jackson Jr.) | "Forecast"

Omne trium perfectum- everything that comes in threes is perfect. When it comes to the trio Jazz Funk Soul (JFS), this statement rings true. Saxophonist Everette Harp, keyboardist Jeff Lorber and guitarist Paul Jackson Jr. are the perfect union of balance and harmony, the right ebb and flow of laid back cool and gritty-driving intensity and the complete package of musical wonder. The towering giants of Contemporary Jazz, who have collaborated with icons like Quincy Jones, Aretha Franklin and B.B. King, are like cosmic rays, emitting unlimited musical possibilities. Each member is a dazzling virtuoso, accomplished bandleader, composer, and producer in their own right. “We each bring our own interpretations of Contemporary and Mainstream Jazz together in a way that allows us to break the bonds of the normal approach to Smooth Jazz.  By using our years of collective vocabulary we freely express ourselves musically using everything we have at our disposal,” shares Harp. “Plus we can leap tall diminished chords in a single bound!” Taking giant steps are what Jazz Funk Soul is used to. The dynamic three-some are responsible for selling millions of albums and scoring more than 50 #1 Smooth Jazz radio hits! Jazz Funk Soul's new and fourth recording, Forecast, (Shanachie Entertainment, August 5, 2022) is a shining example of their magnetic chemistry and inspired performances. At the core of the trio’s allure is their genuine camaraderie, which is anchored by each member’s passion to create. "All of us love music, especially Jazz, not to mention Funk and Soul!" exclaims Lorber. Our unique talents compliment each other. Paul is well known as an ace session player and one of the finest rhythm guitarists in the world, and Everette is a force of nature with the saxophone. I enjoy comping behind and supporting these guys, and also tossing in some of my blues and be-bop licks when I solo." Harp says, "The respect I have for Jeff and Paul is immense. Their accomplishments would be enough for 10 musician’s lifetimes.” Jackson adds, “JFS is a threefold convergence of hard work, experience over time, and the blessing of the Lord. Jeff and Everette are arguably two of the best soloists with whom I’ve ever worked.”

The original incarnation of Jazz Funk Soul commenced in 2014. Everette Harp, Jeff Lorber and Chuck Loeb formed the band with the mission of recreating on record the spontaneity and explosive chemistry of their live shows. In 2017, the Jazz world was shook by the untimely passing of Chuck Loeb. “Chuck was an important part of the start of JFS. He was certainly the JAZZ in Jazz Funk Soul," reflects Everette. "The spirit and joy he brought into his play was infectious. Each time we played together I felt like I had to bring it! There were no coasting nights. He’d smoke you if you didn’t bring it. He was incredible and set a wonderful precedent for us to continue." Lorber adds, "I feel very lucky to have had the chance to know and collaborate with Chuck. He was a really sweet guy who was fun to hang out with. As a musician, he had prodigious talent as a jazz guitarist, improviser, composer and producer. I think everyone who got to know Chuck really misses him. Jackson shares, “I was able to tour with Chuck in a guitar trio (along with Chieli Minucci). I used to love it when it was his turn to play one of his songs. The chance to “duel” with Chuck and learn from him was an experience that I will never forget. Chuck is a world-class musician, composer and producer and he’s even nicer than he is talented. I would not have joined JFS if I did not feel I could honor his legacy. I hope I am making him proud.” In a tasteful and fitting way Jazz Funk Soul pays homage to Chuck on Forecast with the memorable "CLS (for Chuck Samuel Loeb)."

When three visionaries unite, there is bound to be forward momentum. Paul Jackson Jr. shares, “One of my longtime hobbies is lake fishing. You must cast your line out ‘forward’ into the water if you’re gonna catch anything. For me, Forecast is JFS casting our musical net into the world to “catch” music listeners everywhere. And, I think we have the right “bait” for the job!!!” Forecast started to take shape just as the pandemic hit and the world as we knew it changed. "It was a little bit weird, but being stuck at home made really focusing on this project a lot easier," recalls Lorber. "There were a lot fewer distractions, no decompressing from the treadmill of coming back from the road and changing gears to working in the studio." A lot of time, love and nurturing went into creating the music. Harp shares the vision for the album's title stating, "Forecast alludes to the continuing progress of the group in defining its sound, direction, and place in the genre as it exists today. We also want to force the musical dialogue in the direction of our musical forefathers where the history of jazz still plays an integral part of the future of contemporary jazz. As much as we are physically able to, we want to get out there and share what knowledge we have with younger musicians and pass it on."

The invigorating ten-track set on Forecast opens with the finger-poppin' and snappy Lorber original "Hustle" showcasing the keys phenom on Hammond B3, Rhodes, piano and clav. The Grammy-winning Lorber is a creature of habit sharing, "I get up at 4 AM everyday to practice, write and record. I really like that time of the morning. It’s nice and quiet and it’s easy to concentrate. Unfortunately my two cats are used to my schedule, so my first job every day is to feed those guys!"  The tight unison ensemble interplay on "Hustle," which is the album's first single, is punctuated by the addition of drummer Gary Novak, bassist MonoNeon and saxophonist David Mann. Everette Harp's enchanting R&B ballad "Keep Holding On" highlights his mesmerizing alto while the conversation between Harp, Lorber and Jackson offer a glimpse into the ensembles telepathic interplay and playful spirit. The foot-stomping and turbo-charged "Funkin' In AZ" shifts gears and puts the pedal to the medal for a searing performance of funk at its best. The moment that bass line drops you can tell there is heavy weather ahead! "The working title was DS, which stands for David Sanborn," explains Harp. "I spent so many years trying to sound like David growing up in clubs playing, then when I started developing my own sound I didn’t want people saying I sounded like him. I finally got to a point where I was recognized for my sound and interpretation on the alto saxophone. I wanted to express my gratitude to David for the gift of direction he gave so many of us. That gift allowed us to branch off of that tree, and forge our own sounds and directions. So in doing this homage I was able to get together with Marcus Miller on bass, and Ray Bardani to mix, and try to recreate a sound they were so indelibly a part of on all of those successful Sanborn records.”

All the perfect elements align for the delightful and bluesy title track. On this Jeff Lorber original the temperature is just right, there's enough atmospheric pressure to keep the track swinging, sufficient wind to create the perfect synergy within the ensemble, low humidity and no clouds - just straight smooth sailing. “’Forecast’ represents the forward thinking and exploration musically that we are striving for,” says Lorber. The nexus of what makes Jazz Funk Soul work comes down to their mutual admiration for one another. “We started out as just a group focused on playing live shows together," explains Lorber. "Four albums later, I think we’ve proved that we’re a real band, hopefully with a bright future ahead of us too. Paul and I have been good friends and studio buddies ever since I moved to L.A. in 1980, and it’s been rewarding to also get to know Everette these last few years, both live and recording-wise.” "Bouncing Back" brings a feeling of optimism and renewal. When Harp launches into his solo it's as if the storm has cleared, the skies have opened and there are nothing but blue skies. The back and forth between Lorber and Harp catapults the track to another dimension. Another highlight on Forecast is Paul Jackson Jr.’s sizzling “Fish Grease.” The soul-jazz Crusaders vibe meets Memphis underground groove shows off the guitarist's technical ferocity and nasty blues infused chops. Jackson even plays the Dobro on this number, a rarity in smooth Jazz but so fitting for this bluesy ditty. JFS creates the meanest of grooves that will leave you smiling with your head nodding. It is hard not to fall in love with the up-tempo and intoxicating "Count Me In." The inviting swing of this track is undeniable. The pensive and pulsating flow of "When The Time Comes" offers a moment of serenity on Forecast while "Hidden in Plain Sight" opens our ears to the genius that is Jazz Funk Soul as they seamlessly fuse technical virtuosity with overflowing emotion and freedom in the groove. Lorber says, "There’s certainly enough negativity in the world, so I like to think listening to our record will be a little oasis of fun and positive vibes, that you can bob your head to.” 

Pianist, composer and producer Jeff Lorber has been a guiding light on the Contemporary Jazz scene for over four decades. Along with maestros Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, Joe Sample and Bob James, Lorber is a groundbreaking Fender Rhodes pioneer. Having produced for everyone from Dave Koz to Kenny G, Lorber's long running acclaimed ensemble, Jeff Lorber Fusion, scored a Grammy for their album Protoype in 2015 for ‘Best Contemporary Instrumental’ album. Lorber who is a fan of science fiction and thrillers released his most recent solo effort Space-Time in 2021. A consummate musician, the Berklee College of Music alum states, "It's really important to challenge yourself to be better on all musical levels. You have to review what you’re doing and see what you can do to make it better. Good is not good enough, it has to be great."

"I love golf! I love golf! Oh, then there’s golf! Did I mention I love golf?!," declares Grammy nominated saxman Everette Harp. "I also like having a nice meal and watching a good movie with my wife. Relaxing on the patio and enjoying the golden years!" Harp seems to have discovered the fountain of youth despite having been one of the premiere architects of Contemporary Jazz since the early ‘90s. His soulful and trademark blend of Jazz, R&B, Funk and Pop have made him a favorite among fans, fellow musicians and critics alike. His impressive career that has allowed him to collaborate with everyone from Aretha Franklin, Chaka Khan, Anita Baker, Luther Vandross and Patti Labelle to George Duke, Herbie Hancock, Billy Joel and Kenny Loggins. He has left an indelible imprint on the scene with his own unique, muscular and soulful approach. His work on TV has brought his saxophone into the homes of millions who have heard him playing the theme songs for such popular TV shows as Entertainment Tonight and Soul Train. He also holds the distinction of being a former member of the posse on the first Arsenio Hall Show. Harp also hosted the radio program Smooth Jazz Odyssey with Everette Harp for a stint on WLOQ in Orlando, FL, which was the #1 show in the market during its four year run. His most recent solo release is First Love (2009).  Always striving to evolve Harp confides, "I’m am almost never happy with my playing. There are times I feel I’m close, but just didn’t quite get there. I find if I’m able to free myself from what I think I’m suppose to play and let the moments happen instead of forcing it, that’s when I feel I’m closest to being the musician I want to be." 

Los Angeles native Paul Jackson, Jr. launched his solo career in the late 80s. Jackson’s distinctive musical style and technical prowess have made him a favorite among live audiences. First call for numerous musicians, the Grammy-winning guitarist has recorded with an impressive roster of musicians including Quincy Jones, Barbra Streisand, Whitney Houston, Patti LaBelle, Michael Jackson and Bob James, among many others. “Many people ask the question, how do I master my instrument. I inform them that there’s no such thing as a ‘master’. Because there is so much to learn stylistically and historically, you will never learn it all,” explains Jackson. “Plus, music is ever changing and growing. I tell them ‘the day you think you’ve mastered your instrument, you should quit. You have put a dam where God put a channel.’ Paul Jackson Jr. has lent his prolific guitar work to several film scores including Get On Up, Zootopia and The Color Purple. The guitarist is also featured on Daft Punk’s CD Random Access Memories, which scored five Grammys in 2014. A man of many talents, Jackson is a big fan of vintage cars and trains dogs, sometimes participating in protection (police dog) training. Paul Jackson Jr.’s latest solo CD is Stompin’ Willie Presents More Stories (2016), which pays homage to dear friend and music icon George Duke. Jackson has made mentorship a mission in his life. He leads a monthly Bible study group and participates in a mentorship program for boys ages eight to eighteen.

"The name Jazz Funk Soul screams diversity," declares Everette Harp. "I think the fact that we’ve each been studio musicians and have played on many styles of records, allows our music to have a freedom of expression that can go from high energy to jazzy, funky, bluesy, soulful and emotional. I hope listeners feel this and enjoy the journey." You've got your invitation. Take the journey - as the Forecast assures the coast is clear and all is looking and sounding great!

Ben Sidrin | "Swing State"

Sixty years into a wildly accomplished career that counts music as only the foremost of many aspects, Ben Sidran takes yet another new direction with the September 16 release of Swing State (Bonsai/Nardis). Long known for his lively, bluesy singing style (in the vein of his mentor Mose Allison), the 78-year-old finally gives his vocal cords a rest with an all-instrumental jazz album with Leo Sidran, his son, on drums and Billy Peterson, a co-conspirator of nearly five decades, on bass.

If a strictly instrumental album seems to have been a long time coming, Sidran can honestly say that he's been busy with many, many other things. Aside from singing and playing piano, the hats he's worn across the years include academic, rock star, session player, songwriter, record producer, film composer, author, and broadcaster. Let nobody accuse him of being afraid of trying something new.

Even so, Sidran acknowledges that he got nervous about putting out a piano record when he considered the competition. "With all the brilliant piano players around," he says, "I never wanted to enter that fray."

The finished product, however, is not a leap into some great unknown. Anyone who knows the boisterous personality, blues roots, and storyteller's polish of Sidran's singing voice will immediately recognize it in his piano voice, too. He need not open his mouth to imbue either the classic swinger "Stompin' at the Savoy" or the ballad "Laura" with his quirky perspective and wry humor. Likewise, his original "Swing State" makes as powerful a rhythmic and melodic statement as Sidran's vocals ever did--without his uttering a syllable.

Nor does the lack of vocal work throw off his accompanists, both of whom are more than acquainted with Sidran's sound and persona. "The three of us share a special musical feel," the pianist says. Indeed, Leo Sidran (another multifaceted artist of equal accomplishment to his father) has played drums with Ben practically since he was old enough to reach the kit--and almost as long with Peterson, who's worked with the elder Sidran since before the younger was born.

All told, these elements make Swing State less a bold new venture than another very natural extension of Sidran's considerable artistic range. The wait for it only increases the welcome.

Ben Sidran was born August 12, 1943, in Chicago. He grew up in Racine, Wisconsin, but learned jazz through the records that his advertising executive father brought him from work in the Second City. His first love was boogie-woogie, which he taught himself to play on piano--but when he received a Horace Silver album for his bar mitzvah, he knew that that was the direction for him.

Attending the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Sidran befriended future icons of the San Francisco scene Steve Miller and Boz Scaggs, joining them in a blues band called the Ardells. They separated when Sidran traveled to England to earn his master's and doctorate degrees but reunited in 1968 to record what would become the first album by the Steve Miller Band. Sidran would soon enjoy a brief stint as a member, and for several years remain an auxiliary contributor to the band, writing their early hit "Space Cowboy."

Meanwhile, Sidran was working on his dissertation (which became the first of his five books); working on sessions with the Rolling Stones, Eric Clapton, and Peter Frampton; and making records of his own, beginning with 1971's Feel Your Groove. He also became a renowned and highly successful producer, collaborating with artists ranging from the Steve Miller Band and Van Morrison to Diana Ross and Mose Allison in addition to producing his own albums. He even became a broadcaster, hosting two award-winning National Public Radio series (Jazz AliveI and Sidran on Record) and the VH1 television program New Visions, which won a Cable Ace Award.

Making music remained Sidran's primary passion, however, and his discography has become extensive. Swing State is his 40th release under his own name. He and his trio will celebrate its release with engagements at Crooners, Minneapolis, 8/19-20; Cafe Coda, Madison, WI, 8/23; Neranenah, Atlanta, 8/25; and the Green Mill in Chicago, 8/26-27.