CHICK COREA'S NEWEST RELEASES - THE VIGIL - SET FOR RELEASE AUGUST 6, 2013

For the past half-century, on a jazz landscape that has seen its share of twists and turns, Chick Corea has always kept the faith – not just for himself, but for his peers and for the subsequent generations of musicians (and fans) whom he has inspired along the way. For the 20-time GRAMMY® Award-winning keyboardist and composer, jazz has always been about honoring and preserving the creative process and the creative spirit – the undying spark that reaches back to the very beginnings of civilization.

“Since the prehistoric days,” Corea explains, “there has always existed a basic impulse in all people to entertain others: sing, dance, drum, play, tell a story, draw a picture – for one other person or for thousands, and with today’s communication technology, for millions. To keep a persistent and steady vigil on this primal urge, and to keep the quality of this musical communication pure, alive and at the highest quality is the meaning and the message of the band that I have assembled. It is the vigil we try to keep and continually improve on.”

The band is called, appropriately enough, The Vigil. It’s an ever-evolving collective whose recording roster included saxophonist/clarinetist/flutist Tim Garland, guitarist Charles Altura, bassist Hadrien Feraud, drummer Marcus Gilmore, percussionist Pernell Saturnino and Corea’s soulmate and wife, vocalist Gayle Moran Corea. The band’s self-titled debut recording, The Vigil (CJA-34578-02), is set for release August 6, 2013 on Concord Jazz. In addition to the aforementioned lineup, The Vigil also includes guest appearances by bassist Stanley Clarke and saxophonist Ravi Coltrane on a tribute to Ravi’s father John Coltrane, “Pledge for Peace.”

The team plunges into uncharted waters with no hesitation. The opening track, “Galaxy 32 Star 4,” establishes the otherworldly but upbeat tone that marks the entire seven-song set. It’s a heavily syncopated and atmospheric composition, thanks to the intriguing solo work from all corners – most notably Corea’s synthesizer, Altura’s exploratory electric guitar, and the seamless churning of Gilmore and Saturnino on drums and percussion, respectively.

“The idea of life outside of Earth has always inspired me to envision a new and better existence,” Corea says. “I consider what we have here and now on this planet as something less than the pinnacle of existence. I like to imagine what could be created in an ideal culture in a new world where the creative imagination is considered the most valuable possession one could have.”

“Planet Chia” starts slowly, and in a contemplative groove, but the energy level escalates after only a few bars with the help of some high-speed interplay between Corea (on piano this time), Feraud on bass and Garland on tenor sax. Once again, the team of Gilmore and Saturnino is the rock-solid anchor that helps to hold the arrangement together.

“Portals to Forever” gets under way with a metronomic groove, but things loosen up quickly – enough for Corea’s synthesizer to lead his fellow travelers on a journey where time is stretched and sound is a richly layered and fascinating reality.

Included in the second half of the set are tributes to two of Corea’s primary mentors. Gentle and melodic at first, then later daring and ambitious, “Royalty” is a nod to drummer and bandleader Roy Haynes, whom Corea refers to as the “hero, mentor and friend” he first met in 1967 when he joined the Stan Getz quartet. “Our friendship comes full circle,” he says, “as the drummer in this new band is Roy’s grandson, whom I met when he was only 12 years old and playing great even then.”

Similarly, “Pledge for Peace” is a cascading but insistent prayer inspired by the music of John Coltrane. The track features a guest appearance by bassist Stanley Clarke, another longtime member of Corea’s inner circle of musical friends and collaborators. “‘Pledge for Peace’ brings another relationship full circle,” says Corea. “Shortly after Stanley and I first met many years ago, we spent an evening listening to Trane’s Crescent and A Love Supreme. This moment of sharing ideas and interests became a touchstone of our friendship and our long musical relationship. I’m so glad Stanley could be a part of this new outing of my first band.” The track also includes the transcendent tenor saxophone of Ravi Coltrane in a paean to his father.

The closing track, “Legacy,” is an ambitious mood piece that leans heavily on percussion and uses melody and harmony sparingly – more as accents than as central components to the composition. The result is something that sounds very spontaneous and organic, all of which is fitting for a piece that Corea dedicates “to the creators of our music culture who have kept the vigil.”

“I get the greatest pleasure out of seeing people happy and enjoying life,” says Corea. “When all are smiling at the end of a performance – musicians, audiences, crew, organizers and all – I then feel like I’ve done my job well, and I’m inspired to create more music and communicate even more broadly. This is my greatest pay for all the effort at work. This is what makes being a musician such a joy. This is what inspires me to maintain the vigil.”

NEW RELEASES - WAYNE LOVEGROVE, RICARDO GALLO CUARTETO, PETER VLIETSTRA

WAYNE LOVEGROVE - SOLO GUITAR

Wayne Lovegrove composes and performs musical imagery for contemporary solo fingerstyle acoustic guitar. Multiple tunings, extended techniques, harmonic richness, fluid compositional style, and technical skill, combine to bring out the natural expressive resonance of the steel string acoustic guitar. From flowing, deep, liquid echoes to passages of precise blistering speed, this is instrumental music that leaves the listener open to form their own images to these varied textures and sounds. Wayne's playing incorporates an array of extended techniques including: alternate tunings; two handed fretboard work; guitar body percussion; and compositional freedom; in addition to a broad array of conventional fingerstyle techniques. "...master guitarist Wayne Lovegrove is on the cutting edge..." //  "Doesn't that sound like about three guitars? No! It's one guy! One guitar!" // His fingers fly so quickly across the fingerboard, rhythmic patterns building and dancing, the energy soaring beyond his instrument and out into the room." ~ cduniverse.com

RICARDO GALLO CUARTETO - TRIBAL DEL ALFALTO

Tribu del Asfalto, the fourth release of this working band since 2005 features their live work while presenting new material that focuses on collective interaction and inter-webbed percussive textures. The music tries to seek a more tribal sound at the same time that it embraces complex rhythmic structures, while the improvisations are almost always collective letting individuals come out as part of the topography of the music. This is contrasted in the four solo tracks (named after each player) where each member is featured at the beginning or ending of a piece. ~ cduniverse.com

PETER VLIETSTRA - KEEP IN TOUCH

My music is usually labelled as 'dancefloor jazz', sometimes as 'boogaloo' or 'loungefusion'. It is a mix of jazz, blues, soul, funk and latin. It's real 21th century music with a flavour of the 70ties and 80ties of the last century. All vocals and keyboards are performed by myself and some friends. All other instruments are played by extremely competent musicians, most of them being personal friends. ~ cduniverse.com

NEW RELEASES - CAL HARRIS JR., DAVID MURRAY, ORRIN EVANS

CAL HARRIS JR. - SHELTER ISLAND

'Shelter Island' is the latest project from contemporary jazz keyboardist Cal Harris Jr. It features 10 original songs that are excellent examples of what is rapidly becoming the style of his style - haunting, melodic and enchanting tunes rounded out by impeccable arrangements, production, and stellar performances by world-class musicians. On his latest CD, Harris takes the listener on a musical journey to 'Shelter Island' a place where a range of emotions is explored from the excitement of the title track, to the carefree vibe of 'By the Bay' - a warmly romantic groove that features excellent solos by guitarist Joel Del Rosario, and saxophonist Keith Mckelley to beautifully accentuate the breathtaking keys of Harris. His 'Sunset Chasers' is a heart wrenching melody interpreted beautifully by saxophonist Marion Meadows. Lest you think Harris can't put a little funky, sexy R&B on it.... there's 'Smooth'. The Billboard top 10 smash featuring Elan Trotman. Get ready for the hip swaying and finger popping with this one! Harris is a master of his craft he writes, arranges, produces and performs with a beauty further defined by the excellence in which he does them all. His is a true talent and a breath of fresh air. Harris brings the depth of emotion back to smooth jazz and makes you realize how much you missed it. Shelter Island is a CD that will stay on repeat in the player, inviting you to discover something new every time you hear it.  ~amazon.com

DAVID MURRAY - BE MY MONSTER LOVE

An exciting, R&B-infused jazz album from Grammy®-winner David Murray, featuring standout vocals from platinum-selling Grammy® winner Macy Gray and two-time Grammy® nominee Gregory Porter. With power-packed vocals from Macy Gray and Gregory Porter, this is hands down David Murray s most soulfully creative and popularly accessible recording to date. Grammy®-winning, multi-platinum-selling Macy Gray s sultry delivery of the title track, Be My Monster Love, has crossover appeal into R&B territory. Videos for this sexy song (which capitalizes on the perennially popular vampire theme) have potential for viral marketing. The inclusion of three crossover radio-friendly songs by rising vocal star Gregory Porter (Grammy®-nominee for Motéma albums Be Good and Water) adds mightily to this album s potential at radio and retail. ~ amazon.com

ORRIN EVANS - IT WAS BEAUTY

With It Was Beauty, pianist Orrin Evans presents his seventh Criss Cross leader date, returning to the label for the first time since 2005. The title tells the story: on a reflective, immensely satisfying ten-piece program comprising mainly originals, the 36-year-old Evans - joined by bass titan Eric Revis and master drummer Donald Edwards, both partners of long standing - plays with old soul focus, presenting a deeply personal vision that privileges notions of dynamic contrast, immediately identifiable tonal identity, meaty harmonies, tension and release, and three-way conversation. ~ amazon.com

NEW RELEASES - EARL KLUGH, COMANDA BARABBA, MAYSA

EARL KLUGH - HAND PICKED

In a recording career of over three decades, master guitarist Earl Klugh has been lauded as a prodigy and a groundbreaker of contemporary jazz. Klugh's highly-anticipated Concord debut, HandPicked, is a self-produced solo album with guest guitarists Bill Frisell, Vince Gill, Jake Shimabukuro and others. The 16 tracks are as follows: Alfie, Lullaby Of Birdland, Blue Moon, In Six, Cast Your Fate To The Wind, Hotel California, More And More Amor, 'Round Midnight, But Beautiful, All I Have To Do Is Dream, Going Out Of My Head, If I Fell, Where The Wind Takes Me, Morning Rain, Love Is A Many Splendored Thing, and This Time. The CD is set for release in July 2013.

COMANDA BARABBA - JAZZ RESISTANT

With the release of Jazz Resistant, the band Comanda Barabba's second album, Rudi Records once again dives deep into the heart of Italian underground jazz. Comanda Barabba has been active for over a decade, drawing inspiration and strength from the collective work of its five musicians: Tim Trevor-Briscoe and Christian Ferlaino (saxophones and clarinets), Nicola Guazzaloca (piano), Luca Bernard (double bass) and Gaetano Alfonsi (drums). The ensemble bears testimony to the rich creative jazz scene of Bologna, where new and vibrant solutions continue to be forged. The jazz of Comanda Barabba is open, incisive and unashamedly omnivorous. The compositions by each member of the band branch out naturally from strong roots in collective improvisation. A music which proudly resists mainstream clichès and which vibrates freely between the traditional and the avantguarde. ~ rudirecords.com

MAYSA - BLUE VELVET SOUL

Maysa holds unique status in the world of R&B/Jazz. Her incomparably lush, sensuous vocals have garnered her legions of loyal, loving fans. As featured vocalist of the UK super group Incognito, core member of Stevie Wonder's Wonderlove and, of course, through her own albums and concerts, Maysa has been thrilling R&B and Jazz audiences for decades. Blue Velvet Soul is far and away the most sensuous and heartfelt recording of her brilliant career. Maysa thrills us with a stirring rendition of the Mariah Carey classic "I Still Believe" and her version of "Quiet Fire" a loving tribute to her mentor and role model Nancy Wilson that will leave you breathless! A special highlight is the guest vocal appearance and soulful production by Jean Paul "Bluey" Bluey Maunick , the creator of Incognito, who contribute 3 originals to this. R&B super producer Mike City (Rihanna, Jamie Foxx, Ledisi) contributes several brilliant originals to the mix, and Chris "Big Dog" Davis (Kim Burrell, Will Downing, George Clinton), Maysa's longtime collaborator and inspiration, round out the inspired supporting cast! ~ amazon.com

BLUE NOTE ANNOUNCES GREGORY PORTER'S LIQUID SPIRIT, SET FOR RELEASE SEPTEMBER 17

Blue Note Records has announced a September 17 release date for Liquid Spirit, the remarkable major label debut from GRAMMY-nominated jazz and soul singer Gregory Porter. The 14-track album is further justification for Porter’s quick ascent into the top ranks of jazz and R&B singers today, and it also features 10 new originals which showcase Porter’s innate gift for writing poignant songs based upon personal experiences with a relatable and emotional immediacy. Also included is a stirring rendition of the jazz standard “I Fall In Love Too Easily,” as well as covers of Abbey Lincoln’s “Lonesome Lover” and Ramsey Lewis’ hit “The ‘In’ Crowd.”

“I firmly consider myself a jazz singer but I enjoy blues, southern soul, and gospel,” says Porter. “Those elements make their way inside my music. And I’ve always heard them in jazz.” Indeed, Porter wields one of the most captivating baritone voices in music today. It emits enormous soul that conveys both the emotions and intellect of any given song without relying on vocal histrionics.

On Liquid Spirit, Porter retains the same core musicians that accompanied him on his previous two albums – pianist and music director, Chip Crawford, drummer Emanuel Harrold, bassist Aaron James, alto saxophonist Yosuke Sato, and tenor saxophonist Tivon Pennicott. On a few selections, Porter complements that ensemble with trumpeter Curtis Taylor, and organist Glenn Patscha. Producer Brian Bacchus also returns, as well as arranger and associate producer Kamau Kenyatta.

Porter sees Liquid Spirit as a logical progression in his burgeoning discography as it touches on some of the same themes, particularly the highs and lows of romance, his childhood, and socio-political observations. More pointedly, he views the title-track, a rousing, hand-clapping gospel-jazz romp, dealing with replenishing “thirsty” listeners with more substantial music, as the flipside to last year’s “Bling Bling,” a blistering song on his previous album Be Good on which the protagonist had so many artistic gifts to give but no one to give them to. Similar sentiments occur on “Musical Genocide,” on which Crawford hammers a dark rhythmic figure against James’ bluesy bass accompaniment as Porter declares his refusal of accepting the insistent squashing of quality, diverse music and culture by a mainstream in favor of disposable, homogenized pap.

In part, these songs are based upon Porter’s reflections on new fans, worldwide, who come to him saying, “Where have you been?” or “How come I’ve never heard you before.” “Not saying that I am ‘what is,’ Porter says, “But I think maybe what I’m doing is what people actually want to hear. There are some people who want that liquid spirit – a soulful, thoughtful sound – and they haven’t been getting it.”

The track listing for Liquid Spirit is as follows:
1. No Love Dying (Gregory Porter)
2. Liquid Spirit (Porter)
3. Lonesome Lover (Abbey Lincoln/Max Roach)
4. Water Under Bridges (Porter)
5. Hey Laura (Porter)
6. Musical Genocide (Porter)
7. Wolfcry (Porter)
8. Free (Gregory Porter/Zak Najor)
9. Brown Grass (Porter)
10. Wind Song (Porter)
11. The “In” Crowd (Ramsey Lewis/Billy Page)
12. Movin’ (Porter)
13. When Love Was King (Porter)
14. I Fall In Love Too Easily (Sammy Cahn/Jule Styne)

GEORGE CLINTON'S PARLET ALBUMS RE-ISSUED - PLEASURE PRINCIPLE & INVASION OF THE BOOTY SNATCHERS

PARLET - PLEASURE PRINCIPLE

Of George Clinton’s two girl groups, The Brides of Funkenstein commanded the lioness’ share of attention, but Parlet was the funkier of the two; in Clinton put it, “sexual satisfaction guaranteed, that’s what this group is all about!” Parlet’s roots actually went way back in the Parliament/Funkadelic cosmology; singers Jeanette Washington and Debbie Wright were the first female members of the band, and the third member of the trio, Mallia Franklin, introduced Uncle Jam to Bootsy Collins. Both Parlet releases were production vehicles for Clinton and his rotating cast of characters, including Collins, Glenn Goins, Bernie Worrell, Fred Wesley, Gary Shider and other members of the Mothership. Which is hardly a bad thing; any Parliament/Funkadelic fan is going to want this, especially since it was only briefly out on CD in Japan in the early ‘90s. Our Real Gone reissue of this complete 1978 release sports liner notes from Parliament/Funkadelic’s own former Minister of Information, Tom Vickers, plus memorabilia from his archive and a fresh remastering job by Maria Triana at Battery Studios.

Tracks:
1. Pleasure Principle
2. Love Amnesia
3. Cookie Jar
4. Misunderstanding
5. Are You Dreaming?
6. Mr. Melody Man

PARLET - INVASION OF THE BOOTY SNATCHERS

Of George Clinton’s two girl groups, The Brides of Funkenstein commanded the lioness’ share of attention, but Parlet was the funkier of the two; in Clinton put it, “sexual satisfaction guaranteed, that’s what this group is all about!” Parlet’s roots actually went way back in the Parliament/Funkadelic cosmology; singers Jeanette Washington and Debbie Wright were the first female members of the band, and the third member of the trio, Mallia Franklin, introduced Uncle Jam to Bootsy Collins. Franklin and Wright were gone by the time this, their second album, Invasion of the Booty Snatchers, was recorded, replaced by Shirley Hayden and Janice Evans, so calling Parlet a “group” is a little bit of a misnomer. Instead, these records are production vehicles for Clinton (and, on this record, former Invictus writer/producer Ron Dunbar) and his rotating cast of characters, including Collins, Glenn Goins, Bernie Worrell, Fred Wesley, Gary Shider and other members of the Mothership. Which is hardly a bad thing; any Parliament/Funkadelic fan is going to want this, especially since it was only briefly out on CD in Japan in the early ‘90s. Our Real Gone reissue sports liner notes from Parliament/Funkadelic’s own former Minister of Information, Tom Vickers, plus a custom illustration from Ron “Stozo Da Klown” Edwards, who provided the funky artwork for the original 1979 release! Freshly remastered by Maria Triana at Battery Studios, too.

Tracks:
1. Ridin’ High
2. No Rump to Bump
3. Don’t Ever Stop (Lovin’ Me, Needin’ Me)
4. Booty Snatchers
5. You’re Leaving
6. Huff-N-Puff

~ realgonemusic

NEW RELEASES - MARILYN MCCOO & BILLY DAVIS, JR. - MARILYN & BILLY & THE TWO OF US

MARILYN McCOO & BILLY DAVIS, JR. - MARILYN & BILLY

When Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis, Jr. left the Fifth Dimension in 1975 to pursue their own recording careers, success was not long in coming; in fact, each of the succeeding years saw a charting album released from the duo – plus a Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal (Duo) and their own CBS-TV series. However, while their first album, 1976’s I Hope We Get to Love in Time, has been reissued two different times on compact disc, their 1978 album Marilyn & Billy on the Columbia label has never been reissued anywhere in the world. Now, Real Gone Music is releasing this pop-soul classic in an expanded edition featuring the extended 12” single mix of “Shine On Silver Moon” as a bonus track, with liner notes by Mike Ragogna featuring quotes from the duo plus photos and remastering at Battery Studios in NYC. Long, long overdue and eagerly awaited by Marilyn and Billy’s fans!

Tracks:
1. Shine On Silver Moon
2. So Many Things for Free
3. You Got the Love
4. I Got the Words, You Got the Music
5. I Thank You
6. I Thought It Took a Little Time (But Today I Fell in Love)
7. Stay with Me
8. I Got Love for You
9. Saving All My Love for You
10. Carry Me

Bonus Track
11. Shine On Silver Moon (extended 12" single mix)

MARILYN MCCOO & BILLY DAVIS. JR. - THE TWO OF US

When Marilyn McCoo and Billy Davis, Jr. left the Fifth Dimension in 1975 to pursue their own recording careers, success was not long in coming; in fact, each of the succeeding years saw a charting album released from the duo – plus a Grammy Award for Best R&B Vocal (Duo) and their own CBS-TV series. However, while their first album, 1976’s I Hope We Get to Love in Time, has been reissued two different times on compact disc, their 1977 album The Two of Us on the ABC label has never been reissued anywhere in the world. Now, Real Gone Music is releasing this pop-soul classic in an expanded edition featuring the non-LP bonus track “I’m So Glad I Found You” and the Billy Davis, Jr. solo single sides “Light a Candle” and “Three Steps from True Love,” with liner notes by Mike Ragogna featuring quotes from the duo plus photos and remastering at Battery Studios in NYC. Long, long overdue and eagerly awaited by Marilyn and Billy’s fans!


Tracks:
1. Look What You've Done to My Heart
2. Wonderful
3. My Reason to Be Is You
4. My Very Special Darling
5. Nightsong
6. The Times
7. The Two of Us
8. In My Lifetime
9. Hard Road Down

Bonus Tracks (single tracks)
10. I'm So Glad I Found You
11. Light a Candle - Billy Davis Jr.
12. Three Steps from True Love - Billy Davis Jr.

~ realgonemusic

NEW RELEASES - DIONNE WARWICK: THE COMPLETE WARNER BROS. SINGLES & WE NEED TO GO BACK: THE UNISSUED WARNER BROS. MASTERS

DIONNE WARWICK: THE COMPLETE WARNER BROS. SINGLES

Dionne Warwick’s 1972-1977 singles for the Warner Bros. label not only feature a reteaming with Burt Bacharach and Hal David but also a host of other top-drawer collaborators, including former Motown kingpins Holland-Dozier-Holland, Philly soul king Thom Bell, R&B legend Jerry Ragovoy, West Coast pop-rock pioneer Steve Barri with multiple Grammy-winner Michael Omartian, and ace Gladys Knight & The Pips producer Joe Porter. Now, for the first-time ever, the “A” and “B” sides of all 21 of Warwick’s original Warner Brothers stereo single sides are brought together into an album—including such tracks that hit Billboard's Hot 100, R&B and Easy Listening charts as "Once You Hit The Road" and "If We Only Have Love." Although Dionne would leave Warners to achieve new triumphs with Arista Records in 1978, these long-buried gems—many of which have never been released on CD—reveal that her soulful pop sound and vision remained potent and true during the '70s. Paul Howes’ notes include quotes from Dionne herself that illuminate this overlooked period in her brilliant career

Tracks:
1. If We Only Have Love
2. Close to You
3. I Think You Need Love
4. Don’t Let My Teardrops Bother You
5. (I’m) Just Being Myself
6. You’re Gonna Need Me
7. Sure Thing
8. Who Knows
9. Take It from Me
10. It’s Magic
11. Once You Hit the Road
12. World of My Dreams
13. His House and Me
14. Ronnie Lee
15. I Didn’t Mean to Love You
16. He’s Not for You
17. Do You Believe in Love at First Sight
18. Do I Have to Cry
19. Keepin’ My Head above Water
20. Livin’ It Up Is Startin’ to Get Me Down
21. Don’t Ever Take Your Love Away

DIONNE WARWICK: WE NEED TO GO BACK: THE UNISSUED WARNER BROS. MASTERS

Although Dionne Warwick released five albums and nearly a dozen singles for Warner Brothers during her five-year (1972-1977) stint with the label, a search through the tape vaults has uncovered a wealth of stellar unreleased masters whose rumored existence has tantalized collectors for decades. Now with its release of We Need to Go Back—The Unissued Warner Bros. Masters, Real Gone Music has unearthed 19 rare treasures made with the involvement of some of the industry’s top pop and soul producers. For instance, the title track is one of a pair of songs Dionne recorded with R&B songwriting duo Ashford & Simpson during a 1973 session. That same year, pop composer Randy Edelman ("Weekend In New England") joined with Warwick (and engineer Brooks Arthur) to wax a trio of tunes never-before-heard until now. From Dionne's album sessions come an array of outstanding outtakes with Thom Bell, Holland-Dozier-Holland , Steve Barri & Michael Omartian and Jerry Ragovoy. There are also a whopping five recordings for a never-completed 1976 album with producer Joe Porter (Gladys Knight & The Pips). But perhaps the most tantalizing discovery is three previously unreleased Burt Bacharach creations (penned with Neil Simon and Bobby Russell and engineered by Phil Ramone) that the maestro produced in 1974: "He Walked Right Through the Door," "And Then You Know What He Did" and "Plastic City." Fascinating, rare and essential, with notes by Paul Howes that featuring quotes from Dionne herself!

Tracks:
1. Too Far Out of Reach
2. You Hurt Me So
3. Give A Little Laughter
4. You Are the Sunlight and I Am the Moon
5. The Laughter & the Tears
6. We Need To Go Back
7. Someone Else Gets The Prize
8. And Then You Know What He Did
9. Plastic City
10. He Walked Right Through the Door
11. Meant to Be
12. One Last Memory
13. I Found Someone Else
14. Make a Little Love to Me
15. Am I Too Late?
16. Rest Your Love on Me
17. I'll Never Make It Easy
18. Keep Me Warm
19. Room Enough

~ realgonemusic

NEW RELEASES - KENNY BARRON, JOHN COLTRANE QUINTET WITH ERIC DOLPHY, LOUIS ARMSTRONG

KENNY BARRON - KENNY BARRON & THE BRAZILIAN KNIGHTS

Jazz pianist Kenny Barron celebrates the music of Brazil on his 2013 studio album, Kenny Barron & the Brazilian Knights. Here, Barron performs a variety of songs from the late Johnny Alf, as well as composer/harmonica player Maurício Einhorn, who also joins Barron on the album. Also joining Barron are such luminaries as trumpeter Claudio Roditi, saxophonist Idriss Boudrioua, drummer Rafael Barata, guitarist Lula Galvao, bassist Sérgio Barrozo, and keyboardist Alberto Chimelli. This is highly engaging Brazilian jazz. ~ Matt Collar Liner Note Author: Jacques Muyal. Recording information: Visom Digital Studio, Sao Conrado, Rio De Janeiro (06/10/2012-06/11/2012). Photographer: Hervé Muyal. Personnel: Kenny Barron (piano); Lula Galvao (acoustic guitar); Maurício Einhorn (harmonica); Idriss Boudrioua (alto saxophone); Claudio Roditi (flugelhorn); Rafael Barata (drums); Sérgio Barrozo. Audio Mixers: Alberto Chimelli; Sérgio Lima Netto.  ~ cduniverse

JOHN COLTRANE QUINTET WITH ERIC DOLPHY - COMPLETE 1961 COPEHHAGEN CONCERT

EU-only release containing the complete long unavailable 1961 Copenhagen concert by the Coltrane-Dolphy quintet. Includes the only appearance of Victor Young's beautiful song 'Delilah' in both Coltrane and Dolphy's discographies. Also noteworthy are a reading of 'Naima' and Trane's two unusual live false starts before playing a superb version of 'My Favorite Things'. Includes 12-page booklet. In Crowd. ~ cduniverse

LOUIS ARMSTRONG -THE COMPLETE SATCH PLAYS FAT   This release presents, for the first time ever on a single CD, all existing music from the perennial Louis Armstrong LP celebrating the music of Fats Waller: Satch Plays Fats. The first nine tracks comprise the original LP release, followed by all known alternate and partially alternate tracks, many of which have been long unavailable. Among them is a rare version of 'Honeysuckle Rose' from the session, originally issued with dubbed applause on a compilation LP titled Columbia House Party. Louis is backed here by one of the best formations of his All Stars, with such outstanding musicians as Trummy Young, Barney Bigard and Billy Kyle. Essential Jazz Classics. ~ cduniverse

TERENCE BLANCHARD - MAGNETISM

Terence Blanchard's newest album entitled Magnetic boasts contributions from members of his quintet, saxophonist Brice Winston, pianist Fabian Almazan, bassist Joshua Crumbly with drummer Ravi Coltrane and guitarist Lionel Loueke.

"I've always believed that in life, what you keep on your mind is what you draw to yourself." This is how Blanchard explains the title of his 20th album, magnetic. The inspiration stems from Blanchard's personal faith as he has turned in recent years to Buddhism after meditating with good friend and colleague Herbie Hancock. The idea of a spiritual magnetism "is a basic concept in any type of religion," says Terence.

Magnetic marks Blanchard's return to Blue Note Records, which last released A Tale of God's Will, his triumphant 2007 requiem for his home city, New Orleans, in the wake of the devastations wrought by Hurricane Katrina. That harrowingly emotional song cycle is just one of many large-scale projects Blanchard has undertaken in recent years. Since first writing music for Spike Lee's 1990 jazz-set movie Mo' Better Blues, Blanchard has become a renowned film composer with over 50 scores to his credit, most recently the WWII drama Red Tails for producer George Lucas.

Blanchard expands his musical palette on Magnetic through the use of electronics, creating an overdriven, electric guitar-like sound for his horn during "Pet Step Sitter's Theme Song" or brewing the mind-altering atmospherics of "Hallucinations."

The latter tune, though titled by Blanchard's 14-year-old daughter, also touches on the lifelong spiritual search evoked by the album-opening title track and "Central Focus," which was originally recorded twenty years ago on Blanchard's album Simply Stated. "When chanting for meditation," he says, "you can have those moments of reflection that will bring new ideas to you. Some people may no call them hallucinations, but I think they're all related in some fashion."

Not every tune comes from such profound motives. The hard-bopping "Don't Run" was written solely with the intention of allowing the band to joust with Ravi Coltrane's soprano and Ron Carter's mighty bass runs. The title was inspired by a taunt from Carter to Blanchard, asking only half-jokingly when the trumpeter would call on the legendary bassist's services. "Stop running from me, man" Blanchard recalls him saying, and when Carter speaks, you listen.

Coltrane's contributions, which also include a taut, powerhouse turn on tenor for "Pet Step Sitter's Theme Song," came about simply because Blanchard was blown away by the saxophonist's latest album, Spirit Fiction. "Ravi has developed a style and a sound that's very unique," Blanchard explains. "It's an incredible feat given who his father was and what instrument his father played. But his being on my record has nothing to do with any of that; his being on my record is simply due to the fact that I love the way he plays."

The same goes for Benin-born Lionel Loueke, who first came to prominence through Blanchard's quintet before becoming widely renowned as one of the most innovative guitarists and vocalists in modern jazz. "He's a very unique talent," Blanchard says. "Lionel always brings a certain spirit and energy to any project that he's a part of."

Blanchard also readily sings the praises of his core group, which has been evolving over two years together to reach the deeply attuned point at which Magnetic finds them. "I've always appreciated the artistry of Brice and Kendrick, "he says of the band's two veterans. "They've very seriously committed to developing their own unique styles of playing,"

Of newcomer Crumbly, he says "Josh is a young guy who's very talented and brings a lot to the group." And of Almazan, he continues, "Fabian has been growing by leaps and bounds. His harmonic knowledge has taken the band in interesting directions and he colors things in ways which I think are very fresh and forward-thinking."

Each member of the group provides their own contributions to the album: Crumbly, the lovely and delicate "Jacob's Ladder:" Scott, the forceful, rhythmically intense "No Borders Just Horizons;" Winston, the lithe and intricate "Time To Spare;" and Almazan an "emotional roller coaster" dedicated to his mother, "Pet Step Sitters Theme Song," which is later reprised as "Another Step."

Accompanying the release of Magnetic, Blanchard's tour will feature Terence, Brice Winston on sax, Fabian Almazan on piano, Robert Hurst III on bass, Jeff 'Tain" watts on drums, and Lionel Loueke on guitar and will take-in such cities as New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco, Santa Fe, Denver, Boston, Washington, DC, London, Paris, the Czech Republic, Tokyo, Johannesburg and the Choro Festival in Brazil. will be embarking on a summer tour with an appearance at the Newport Jazz Festival in August. Upcoming dates include an engagement at the Opera Theater in St. Louis for "Opera in Jazz" which is based on a true story of boxing champion Emile Griffith.

Upcoming performance dates are as follows:
June 12 - New York, NY @ Jazz Standard
June 15 - St. Louis, MO @ Whitaker Music Festival
June 19 - St. Louis, MO @ World Premiere of Champion Opera
June 21 - St. Louis, MO @ World Premiere of Champion Opera
June 25 - St. Louis, MO @ World Premiere of Champion Opera
June 27 - St. Louis, MO @ World Premiere of Champion Opera
June 30 - St. Louis, MO @ World Premiere of Champion Opera
August 2 - Boston, MA @ Scullers Jazz Club
August 3 - Newport, RI @ Newport Jazz Festival
August 8 - Washington, DC @ Blues Alley
August 9 - Washington, DC @ Blues Alley
August 10 - Washington, DC @ Blues Alley
August 11- Washington, DC @ Blues Alley

JAHCOUSTIX - FREQUENCY

The album is a tribute to traditional Jamaican music from the early days: modern produced, heavyweight roots-reggae meets Jahcoustix’ signature vocals. “Frequency” is an authentic record including enriching features, that will be released in celebration of Jahcoustix’ 10th anniversary. A truly heartical matter. The sixth album for German reggae star comes as CD with 16-page booklet and printed lyrics to sing along – the fan base beside Germany, Austria, Switzerland is also in France, Spain, Portugal and Italy.

Jahcoustix’s youth was a nomad’s life, spending years in Mexico, Liberia, New York, Kenya and Egypt. He discovered music in Kenya where he began writing his first songs. After returning to Germany at the age of 20, Jahcoustix fully dedicated his life to music and has ever since departed on a journey that has taken him and his songs half way around the world.

Jahcoustix has released five studio albums and played 1,000 live concerts over the last decade. His musical diversity, the steady development as well as the recognition he receives for his work are all signs of moving towards a bright future.

On his upcoming album “Frequency” Jahcoustix provides his fans with uncompromising roots reggae. The idea and approach to this album is different to all the previous records. Instead of recording the album with his band, Jahcoustix teamed up with Irievibrations Records and also worked with some other producers to get a more diversified sound. In his 10th anniversary year, Jahcoustix will be out there to reach out to the world with his new songs and a strong lyrical message.

Referring to the question about the featuring track with Apple Gabriel, former singer of the legendary reggae band Israel Vibration, Jahcoustix answered: “I wanted to make a pure roots reggae record with a focus on collaborations with some of my favourite singers of the past 30 years of reggae music. Making this album was my dream and a truly heartical matter.”

www.jahcoustix.de

Tracklisting: 01. Frequency / 02. Calling For Rights / 03. Soul Collide / 04. Love Save I / 05. Controller feat. Apple Gabriel / 06. Rocks / 07. Screw Is Loose / 08. Strong Man feat. Horace Andy / 09. Blaze Is Out / 10. Don’t Shoot feat. Kabaka Pyramid & Raphael / 11. Better Days feat. Dub Inc. / 12. Fail Hard / 13. Kings Of Democracy / 14. Echo

~ grooveattack.com

NEW RELEASES - NAT KING COLE & QUINCY JONES AND HIS BIG BAND, AHMED ABDUL-MALIK / RAY NANCE / SELDON POWELL, SAHIB SHIHAB / ART FARMER / CLIFFORD JORDAN

NAT KING COLE & QUINCY JONES AND HIS BIG BAND  - SWISS RADIO DAYS JAZZ SERIES VOLUME 33

A beautiful set by Nat King Cole joined by conductor/bandleader Quincy Jones and his Big Band – performing live in Zurich on May 1, 1960 – and what an impeccable performance it is! Quincy was touring with a pretty amazing line-up in his Big Band at this point – with Benny Bailey, Jimmy Cleveland, Melba Liston, Phil Woods, Sahib Shihab, Joe Harris and more – and they kick off the set with a couple gentler numbers before swinging more heavily on a couple, then introduce Nat – who's voice is in perfect form here. He sings his hits with the big band, some additional strings and a pared down trio format for a few – so we really get a broad representation of what these consummate performers can do in a number of settings, all in one concert, to boot. Wonderful stuff – released for the first time ever! Titles include "Moanin'", The Midnight Sun Will Never Set", "Airmail Special", "Unforgettable", "Sweet Lorraine", "Tea For Two", "Madrid", "The Phantom Blues", "Route 66", "Joe Turner's Blues", "The Midnight Sun Will Never Set" and more. Also includes a 5 minute interview with Nat. ~ Dusty Groove

AHMED ABDUL-MALIK / RAY NANCE / SELDON POWELL - SPELLBOUND

Sublime sounds from the always-amazing Ahmed Abdul-Malik – a jazz bassist at heart, but also a musician with a great ear for Eastern instrumentation as well! Ahmed cut a few key records at the end of the 50s and start of the 60s – and this spellbinding set may well be one of his strongest – a set that moves past some of the more gimmicky use of exotic instrumentation on other albums, and focuses on a jazzy core that really shines strongly on the album's long tracks! There's still a nice sense of the East on the record – thanks to Hamza Aldeen's oud – but the set also features great jazz solos from Seldon Powell on flute and tenor, and the great Ray Nance on both cornet and violin. Drummer Walter Perkins plays with a fluid style that's perfect for the date – and pianist Paul Neves has a lyrical approach to piano that works wonders for the groove. Titles include "Spellbound", "Never On Sunday", "Body & Soul", "Song Of Delilah", and "Cinema Blues". (On the Dusty Groove label.) ~ Dusty Groove

SAHIB SHIHAB / ART FARMER / CLIFFORD JORDAN - SWISS RADIO DAYS JAZZ LIVE THE CONCERT SERIES VOLUME 32

Vintage 70s Swiss radio recordings by American jazz legends Sahib Shihab, Art Farmer and Clifford Jordan – each performing a couple numbers with the excellent, ever-adaptable Jazz Live Trio! It kicks off with a 1970 set featuring Sahib Shihab out front. First is a laidback, moody take on "You're Mine You", which is a really nice showcase for Sahib's baritone sax in a lighter mood. Next up, though is a playful, loose and energetic take on Monk's "Well You Needn't" – and the trio shines pretty brightly on this one – with a lot of heat coming from Klaus Koenig's piano, Peter Frei's bass and Alex Bally's drums. Next is a pair of pieces with Art Farmer in 1977 – Farmer's flugelhorn perfectly leading Duke Ellington's "In A Sentimental Mood" and speeding things up nicely with Sonny Rollins's "Oleo". The CD closes with a trio of numbers featuring tenor great Clifford Jordan in 1970: "Japanese Dreams", "Inward Fire" and a brilliant reading of "Bags' Groove" to close – with some of the best soloing on the entire set. A real gem in the Swiss Radio Days Jazz Live Concert Series – among the very best of them, actually! ~ Dusty Groove

2013 PLAYBOY JAZZ FESTIVAL WITH GEORGE DUKE, JEFFREY OSBORNE, SHEILA E, HERBIE HANCOCK, BOB JAMES, DAVID SANBORN, ANGELIQUE KIDJO & MORE....

Celebrating its 35th Anniversary, the Playboy Jazz Festival has become an internationally acclaimed event, featuring a veritable who’s who of the jazz world. Considered one of the premier jazz festivals on the West Coast, virtually every jazz icon has performed at the Festival from legendary giants like Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie and Count Basie to today’s hottest stars and contemporary artists such as Herbie Hancock, Wynton Marsalis, Esperanza Spalding, Jamie Cullum, Trombone Shorty and countless others.

Now commemorating 35 years of extraordinary performances, captivating music and magical moments, Playboy will again present a stellar lineup of talent for the 35th Anniversary Jazz Festival, Saturday and Sunday, June 15th and 16th, at the renowned Hollywood Bowl.

Featuring a diverse mix of illustrious jazz greats, next generation leaders and Festival favorites, the two-day concert will spotlight the entire genre of jazz with an assortment of world premieres, rare collaborations and highly anticipated artist debuts. Headliners include George Duke with special guest Jeffrey Osborne, Naturally 7 with special guest Herbie Hancock, Sheila E. and Bob James/David Sanborn featuring Steve Gadd and James Genus.

New to this year’s Festival is the multi-talented entertainer George Lopez, who will make his own debut as the new master of ceremonies, taking over for this year from the legendary Bill Cosby, who relinquished the role last summer after more than 30 years. A Grammy-nominated comedian, Lopez is best known to audiences as the star of TV’s groundbreaking hit sitcom, George Lopez, which ran for six seasons on ABC. Lopez also hosted his own late-night talk show, Lopez Tonight, on TBS for two seasons and was named one of the Top 10 Favorite Television Personalities by the noted Harris Poll. He has made more than 200 TV, comedy, talk show and hosting appearances, including co-hosting the Emmy’s and twice hosting the Latin Grammy Awards, making him a natural choice for the role of Festival host.

Returning to the Playboy stage, two-time Grammy-winning pianist and keyboardist George Duke will appear as a special guest with renowned R&B/pop singer Jeffrey Osborne, who is making his Festival debut. The pair reunited on Osborne’s latest release, A Time for Love, a collection of songs expressing Osborne’s longtime appreciation for jazz standards. The illustrious Duke (who has served as musical director and producer for numerous prominent artists including Dianne Reeves, Anita Baker, Gladys Knight and more) also produced Osborne’s breakthrough solo album Stay With Me Tonight and his hit singles “We’re Going All the Way” and “You Should Be Mine” among others.

Back by popular demand, Naturally 7, who made their triumphant Festival debut in 2010, is returning to the show for a world premiere performance with the iconic Herbie Hancock as a special guest. One of the most distinctively unique groups in music today, Naturally 7 has pioneered a dynamic a cappella style they call “vocal play,” where each member of the group uses only their voice to recreate awe-inspiring sounds of different musical instruments. The group’s now famous Paris subway performance of “Feel It (In The Air Tonight)” has garnered over five million hits on YouTube. Hancock, known for transcending the limitations and genres of music, will complement the group’s inventive style with his own modern compositions that have earned him one Oscar and 14 Grammy Awards. Hancock has been an integral part of every jazz movement since the 1960’s. As a member of the Miles Davis Quintet, he was one of the pioneers of the avant garde sound. His innovative recordings during the 70’s, combining electric jazz with funk rock sounds, continue to influence today’s music.

Turning up the heat, the Emmy and Grammy-nominated singer/percussionist Sheila E. is returning for the second time as the leader of her own group in a rare back-to-back appearance. Her electrifying performance last year rocked the house, winning her a standing ovation that stopped the show. Sheila has previously performed at the Festival with her legendary father, percussionist Pete Escovedo and their renowned family band, with whom she still tours. A star in her own right, she has served as the musical director for such superstars as Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce and Prince. Known for her mega-hit “The Glamorous Life,” she performed with Prince on Purple Rain and also toured with Ringo Starr and his All-Star band among many others. Last year, she performed at the Oscars alongside Pharrell Williams and Hans Zimmer.

Reuniting since their Grammy Award-winning dual recording Double Vision in the mid-80’s, keyboardist Bob James and saxophonist David Sanborn will share the Playboy stage together for the first time as part of their summer tour. The pair will be joined by legendary drummer Steve Gadd and acclaimed bassist James Genus. Renowned beyond the jazz world, the Grammy-winning James is known for both his distinguished solo career and as a founding member of the popular contemporary jazz supergroup FourPlay. A six-time Grammy winner, Sanborn has released 24 albums and toured with everyone from Stevie Wonder, Eric Clapton and Al Jarreau, to Elton John, The Rolling Stones and a host of others. One of the most sought-after session and touring musicians in the world, Gadd has played with such top artists as Paul Simon, Aretha Franklin and Chick Corea just to name a few. Currently a member of television’s popular Saturday Night Live band, James Genus is considered one of the most versatile, in-demand bassists on the scene today. Well-known for his talents on both acoustic and electric bass, Genus has played with such noted artists as Chick Corea, Michael Brecker, Branford Marsalis and others.

Described as “The undisputed Queen of African music” by the London Daily Telegraph, Grammy-winning vocalist Angelique Kidjo is returning to the Festival with special guest renowned world music artist and trumpeter, Hugh Masekela. Known for her dynamic, uplifting music, Kidjo’s appeal cuts across genres as well as generations. Her breathtaking voice and exuberant spirit can be heard on her latest release, Spirit Rising (her first live album), which features special guests Josh Groban, Dianne Reeves and Branford Marsalis among others. Kidjo has also collaborated with such other renowned artists as Carlos Santana, Alicia Keys and more. Masekela is best known for his Grammy-nominated hit “Grazing in the Grass,” which sold over four million copies and made him an international star. An innovator in the world music and jazz scene, he played an integral role in Paul Simon’s classic album Graceland, one of the first pop records to introduce African music to the broader public. He now continues to tour internationally as a performer, composer, producer and activist. Over four decades since his first Grammy nod, Masekela was nominated again this year for his release Jabulani.

A Festival favorite who never fails to ignite the crowd, conguero Poncho Sanchez and his Latin Jazz Band are returning with special guest James Carter for a heated performance of Olé Coltrane, a Latin interpretation of the music of the legendary John Coltrane. The Grammy-winning Sanchez, known for his incendiary style and mastery of Afro-Cuban rhythms, and multi-instrumentalist Carter, whose influences include everything from funk and fusion to rock and acoustic jazz, are the perfect pair to express the spiritual passion and earthy sensuality found in Coltrane’s Spanish-influenced Olé sessions. The result is a kaleidoscopic swirl of music that illuminates Coltrane’s work in a whole new light.

Joining Gordon Goodwin’s Big Phat Band for their return to the Playboy stage, is legendary guitarist Lee Ritenour, who also produced the ensemble’s popular album, Act Your Age, featuring Patti Austin, Chick Corea and Dave Grusin. A three-time Emmy Award-winner also nominated for 11 Grammy’s, Goodwin and his 18 piece group have taken the big-band tradition into the new millennium with an original, contemporary sound featuring Goodwin’s witty, intricate, hard-swinging compositions. The Grammy-winning Ritenour has recorded over 40 albums, and charted over 30 hits during the course of his 50 year career. A pioneer in the contemporary jazz and funk genres, he has graced the albums of such diverse artists as Pink Floyd, Simon & Garfunkel, Dizzy Gillespie, Sonny Rollins, B.B. King, George Benson and many others.

Making his highly-anticipated Festival debut, multi-talented vocalist and songwriter Gregory Porter continues to rack up a steady stream of accolades and awards since exploding onto the international music scene with his acclaimed 2010 debut, Water. Declared “the brilliant new voice of jazz” by The Huffington Post, his recent Grammy-nominated 2012 follow-up, Be Good, features a groove-driven collection of everything from quiet ballads to up-tempo burners. With a voice that can caress or comfort, and a powerhouse band, “Gregory Porter has most of what you want in a male jazz singer, and maybe a thing or two you didn’t know you wanted,” says The New York Times. His fans agree.

Returning for a second time is The Robert Glasper Experiment. A versatile keyboardist, Glasper has long kept one foot planted firmly in jazz and the other in hip hop and R&B. He has worked extensively with rapper Q-Tip, served as the music director for Yasiin Bey (formerly known as Mos Def) and toured with multi-platinum R&B singer Maxwell. His most recent CD, Black Radio, won the 2013 Grammy for Best R&B album. The CD stakes out new territory transcending any notion of genre, drawing from jazz, hip-hop, R&B and rock, while his two previous CD’s for Blue Note won acclaim in the jazz world. His new Experiment band is plugged in and eclectic, distilling countless influences from multiple musical worlds into a singular voice.

The youngest musician ever to be voted onto the DownBeat critics’ poll, 21-year-old Grace Kelly will make her Festival debut with her mentor, Phil Woods, who will also appear with her as a special guest. One of the youngest artists to ever play the Festival, the Asian-American saxophonist, vocalist, songwriter and bandleader is clearly poised to become one of the next generation’s jazz leaders. Already, she has performed over 500 concerts throughout the world and released eight full-length albums, one a year since she was 12 years old. In addition to Woods, she has worked with such renowned artists as Dave Brubeck, Jamie Cullum, Esperanza Spalding, Dianne Reeves, Toots Thielemans and numerous others. An NEA Jazzmaster, the list of musicians saxophone player Phil Woods has performed with reads like a Who’s Who of jazz: Benny Goodman, Clark Terry, Michel Legrand, Thelonious Monk, Dizzy Gillespie and Charlie Barnet just to name a few. Revered for his body of work, Woods was inducted into the American Jazz Hall of Fame in 1994.

Igniting audiences wherever they play, The Pedrito Martinez Group featuring Ariacne Trujillo is also making their Festival debut. Indeed, the future is on fire for the Cuban-born Martinez, whose roots are firmly planted in the Afro-Cuban Rumba tradition and the bata rhythms and vocal chants of the music of Yoruba and Santeria. A founding member of the noted Afro-Cuban Band Yerba Buena, Martinez has been featured on over 100 albums and has toured and played with such renowned artists as Sting, Paul Simon, Cassandra Wilson, Joe Lovano and more.

Also making her long-awaited debut is India.Arie, known and cherished by fellow fans and musicians as a poet, songwriter, musician, singer, producer, advocate and friend. Since the release of her first album, Acoustic Soul, in 2001, she has won four Grammy Awards, received 21 Grammy nominations, four NAACP Image Awards, and received numerous awards and accolades from Vogue, Essence, Billboard, MTV, VH1, BET and more. Her last studio release, Testimony Vol. 2: Love and Politics, sold over eight million albums, hitting #1 on Billboard’s R&B chart, and #3 on the Billboard Top 200. Recently, she performed for President Obama at The Apollo Theatre and was praised by The New York Times as “one of the most determinedly virtuous songwriters in R&B or pop. India.Arie strives to make faith, goodness and positive thinking seductive.” She continues to seduce audiences everywhere with her music.

Still touring non-stop since their Grammy-nominated 2010 debut, Backatown, Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue are bringing the party back to the Playboy stage for their second appearance. Continuing to refine and expand the signature sound that Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews dubbed “Supafunkrock,” the group stirs together old-school jazz, funk and soul, laced with hard-rock powerchords and hip-hop beats, pushing the envelope further musically and creatively. Their latest album, For True, is evidence of the band’s explosive growth that continues to win raves from critics and fans alike. Hailed by many as New Orleans’ brightest new star, Trombone Shorty performed at the White House celebration of Black History Month, which aired on PBS in February 2012. Later that year, he also received the President’s medal from Tulane University in recognition of his community service.

Widely considered one of jazz’s great orchestras, the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra is returning to the Festival for a world premiere performance celebrating Quincy Jones’ 80th birthday, featuring special guests Patti Austin and Hubert Laws. Unique from most jazz ensembles because its core consists of three bonafide leaders, the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra has been an integral part of the jazz scene since 1986, when Grammy-nominated bassist John Clayton, saxophonist/flutist Jeff Clayton and drummer Jeff Hamilton began their big-band venture. The goddaughter of Quincy Jones, Grammy-winner Patti Austin is the ultimate jazz/R&B crossover artist. One of the world’s most popular and versatile vocalists, Austin has 19 solo albums to her credit and capped her star-studded career in 2008 with a Grammy for her critically-acclaimed Avant Gershwin album. Later this year, her new CD, The Excellence of Ellington, will be released as a vocal tribute to “The Duke.” Rounding out the celebration is internationally-renowned flutist Hubert Laws, known as one of the few classical artists who has mastered the genres of jazz, pop and rhythm-and-blues. Recognized as an NEA Jazzmaster, he has 26 solo recordings to his credit and was chosen the #1 flutist by the DownBeat readers poll ten years in a row.

One of the most prominent, influential figures in 20th century blues and roots music, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Taj Mahal is making his Festival debut with his Real Thing Tuba Band. Though his career began more than four decades ago, he has broadened his scope over the years to include music representing every corner of the world. His most recent album, marking his 40th anniversary as a recording artist, Maestro, features performances by Ben Harper, Ziggy Marley, Angelique Kidjo and Los Lobos.

Bringing the intricate rhythms and harmonies of their native South Africa to the Festival stage for the first time, Ladysmith Black Mambazo continues to celebrate over half a century of joyous and uplifting music. Influenced by the sounds and sentiments of Christian gospel music, the group was founded in the early 1960’s by leader Joseph Shabalala. Renowned for their groundbreaking performance on Paul Simon’s now classic Graceland album, the famed a capella group has created a musical and spiritual alchemy that has touched a worldwide audience.

Honoring the late Dave Brubeck, The Brubeck Brothers Quartet—making their first appearance on the Festival stage—is a dynamic ensemble driven by the musical vision of the legendary piano great’s sons Daniel Brubeck (drums) and Chris Brubeck (bass and trombone), who are joined by guitarist Mike DeMicco and pianist Chuck Lamb. A Playboy Festival favorite, Dave Brubeck’s association with Playboy dates back to his performance at the very first Playboy Jazz Festival in Chicago in 1959. With Chris Brubeck’s compositions as a vehicle, the quartet (also known as BBQ) has played with many acclaimed chamber groups and musicians, including the St. Paul Chamber Orchestra, The Philadelphia Orchestra and the Russian National Symphony Orchestra. The esteemed quartet has performed at concert series, colleges, and jazz festivals across North America and Europe including the Newport, Detroit, Ravinia, Las Vegas, Sedona, Spokane & Monterey Jazz Festivals. Their appearance will make a fitting tribute to an artist who gave festivalgoers so many memorable moments.

Making his Festival debut, versatile and iconoclastic pianist Eric Lewis (ELEW) will present an innovative world premiere collaboration with the noted JazzAntiqua Dance Ensemble, Pat Taylor, Artistic Director. Considered a musical revolutionary, ELEW has made a substantial impression on the music world with his unique melding of ragtime rock and pop, that he calls Rockjazz. A Thelonious Monk International Piano Competition winner, he has performed with Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra and toured with Josh Groban. The JazzAntiqua Dance Ensemble, founded by artistic director and choreographer Pat Taylor in 1993, celebrates the jazz tradition as a vital thread in African American heritage and a defining element of the American experience. The ensemble’s work pays homage to Duke Ellington, John Coltrane and Miles Davis and has appeared with such musicians and composers as Marcus Shelby, Dwight Trible and Munyungo Jackson.

NEW RELEASES - ED MOTTA, PACO DE LUCIA / RAMON DE ALGECIRAS, BALLROGG

ED MOTTA - AOR

Tremendous work from Ed Motta – a record that not only lives up to all the promise we've found in his music over the years – but which also goes way way beyond, and really knocks it out of the park! The title here is no lie, as Ed's a huge fan of AOR modes from the 70s – especially those magical sounds from the west coast that perfectly blended jazz, soul, and pop with sweet studio perfection – an approach he goes for wonderfully here, with results that are even better than we expected! Motta's always had soul music at his core, but has professed a strong love for Steely Dan over the years – and this set's a sublime balance of both modes – especially on this English version, where Ed's lyrics are able to reach American ears that have never been able to fully appreciate his genius. Everything about the album is totally right, and totally great – an instant classic set that should get Motta's music out to generations of fans for generations to come. The set features guest work from David T Walker and Bluey of Icognito – and titles include "Playthings Of Luv", "Simple Guy", "Lost In The Night", "Smile", "1978", "AOR", "Dried Flowers", and "Dondi". ~ Dusty Groove

PACO DE LUCIA / RAMON DE ALGECIRAS - DOS GUITARRAS FLAMENCAS EN AMERCA LATINA

A pair of Spanish guitars take on the sound of Latin America – as the great Paco De Lucia and partner Ramon De Algeciras run circles around a host of traditional and folklore tunes! The pair of guitars are very dynamic – and handle both complicated rhythm and melody throughout – with a dexterity that's not only amazing because of Paco's youthful powers on his instrument, but also because the pair of players can work together so seamlessly too! Titles include "El Jarabe Tapatio", "Manana De Carnaval", "Granada", "Malaguena Salerosa", "Tomo Y Obligo", and "Fina Estampa". ~ Dusty Groove

BALLROGG - CABIN MUSIC

The coolest album so far from this compelling Norwegian combo – a set that's got a much more hypnotic feel than any of their other records – spinning out in a weird way that's kind of a combination of ECM jazz and Terry Riley! The tunes all have this slow pulsing sort of quality – not really atmospheric, as there's more going on musically – but kind of elliptical as they move along – always retracing territory while moving forward – and offering up a stunning mix of sax, clarinet, and electronics from Klaus Ellerhausen – who also throws in some field recordings too – plus bass from Roger Arntzen, and a mix of pedal steel, acoustic guitar, and banjo from Ivar Grydeland. Titles include "Breakfast Music", "Sliding Doors", "Fireplace", and "Swedish Country". ~ Dusty Groove

JAZZ SAXOPHONIST HULON RELEASES NEW RADIO SINGLE "TWO IN THE MORNING"

Smooth jazz and R&B saxophonist Hulon has returned with his newest single, “Two in the Morning” from his latest album After Hours. The single is currently available on iTunes and will be going premiering at smooth jazz and urban contemporary radio stations beginning June 3rd with a music video to accompany that will be released later in June.

After the success of his debut album, First Impressions, Hulon’s most recent album, After Hours, has combined passion and confidence creating Hulon’s best tracks to date. “Two in the Morning” is the third single off of After Hours featuring Howard Hewitt on vocals who is Grammy-award winner from Shalamar and Blood, Sweat & Tears. Also featured on “After Hours,” is 2012’s “The Voice” contestant and lyricist Geoff McBride on their rendition of the Heatwave classic, “Always And Forever.”   Believing that “versatility is survivability,” Hulon breaks the mold of the typical urban jazz musician by showcasing a variety of styles and blending his love for the emotional healing power of music and the physical healing that he does. From hip-hop and country to orchestral and classical music, he’s influenced by every genre that inspires his versatility. He says, “I want to be inspiring to children and a good role model to them the way I have strived to be with my own kids. I’m really enjoying this journey every step of the way. As with medicine, I get great personal joy and satisfaction having people appreciate what I do. My time in the office is devoted to physical healing. But when I’m recording or playing live onstage, that’s when the spiritual healing begins.”   http://soundcloud.com/hulon/two-in-the-morning

BRIAN ANDRES AND THE AFRO-CUBAN JAZZ CARTEL - SAN FRANCISCO

Drummer Brian Andres's new album with the Afro-Cuban Jazz Cartel, San Francisco, not only takes its title from the band's home base. The CD, to be released July 16 by the leader's Bacalao Records imprint, also makes a persuasive case for the assertion that San Francisco has its own distinctive Latin jazz sound (the classic "San Francisco Tiene Su Propio Son" is included on the disc).

"There's so much talent in the Bay Area, I wanted to represent the guys in town, their compositions and playing," says Andres, an Ohio native who relocated to the area in 1999. "It's a world-class city with world-class musicians, and I want to let people hear that."

After debuting on Andres's highly regarded 2007 CD Drummers Speak, the Afro-Cuban Jazz Cartel became a 9-piece working band whose members were expected to possess "a deep understanding of Caribbean rhythms and musical forms," Andres explains in his notes to San Francisco, as well as "the ability to create, improvise, and groove."

Cartel pianist Christian Tumalan contributes several outstanding arrangements on the new CD, including the lead track "Sand Castles," composed by the Bay Area jazz pianist Eric Muhler, and an Afro-Cuban reimagining of "Black Market," the Weather Report classic. And in-demand bassist Aaron Germain is particularly well represented with three tunes, among them "Higashi Nakano," a contemporary take on cha cha cha, and "Nothing But Trouble," a showcase for trumpeter Henry Hung (a key member of the Asian American Orchestra, another Bay Area institution).

In fact, the collaborative nature of the Bay Area scene is further exemplified by the contributions of trumpeter Steffen Kuehn, who with Tumalan co-leads the acclaimed Pacific Mambo Orchestra. Rather than exhibiting a sense of competition, they have "both been very helpful as musicians and friends and fellow bandleaders," says Andres.

"We've been fortunate enough to create something that guys really want to be involved in," he adds, "with challenging music that's a good space for them to showcase their art."

Born (in 1968) and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, the son of professional musicians, Brian Andres started playing drums in the fourth grade. After high school, he took classes at the Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music but abandoned formal studies once he landed a full-time gig with veteran bluesman Cincinnati Slim and the Headhunters.

Andres was in the midst of a thriving career playing rock, funk, R&B, and blues when he experienced his clave epiphany, courtesy of the Cleveland salsa band Impacto Nuevo. "It changed my trajectory of where I wanted to go," Andres recalls. "I've often likened it to the first time I kissed a girl. I just wanted to do it over and over again. The first time I heard it done well live, it had me."

He put together a Latin jazz band of his own, and started buying up whatever albums he could find, which introduced him to leading Bay Area artists such as John Santos's Machete Ensemble, Andy Narell, and Pete Escovedo. It was Bay Area Latin jazz stalwart, the late Dutch-born drummer Paul van Wageningen, who convinced him to make the move to San Francisco rather than New York or L.A. by offering real encouragement when Andres came through town on a visit.

"He was absolute class," Andres says. "We hung out and played, and he showed me some things. He said he'd recommend me for gigs, and he was as good as his word."

Landing in the Bay Area in early 1999 at the height of the high-tech boom, Andres quickly found work in an array of Latin settings, playing salsa, Latin funk, and Latin jazz. He undertook his first recording under his own name in 2007, motivated by his love of the multidimensional writing of Latin jazz pioneers Tito Puente and Eddie Palmieri. The result was Drummers Speak.

Andres has maintained ties with his home state and frequently returns there to work. Next month he'll perform as part of Cincinnati Slim & the Headhunters at the Dayton Blues Festival (7/21) and in Springboro OH (7/23), as well as with his own Latin Jazz Quintet at Washington Platform in Cincinnati 7/19. Come August, he'll play three hometown dates with the Afro-Cuban Jazz Cartel-Fountain Square 8/22 and the Blue Wisp 8/23-24.

"Regardless of our land of origin," Andres observes in his CD notes of the far-flung starting points of his band members, "all of us reside here [in the Bay Area] now, drawn to the rich heritage and continuing dynasty of Latin Jazz in San Francisco and feel the intense desire to contribute to it." Brian Andres, the Afro-Cuban Jazz Cartel, and San Francisco can each claim a spot in that deeply influential musical lineage.

www.brianandres.com

MERRY CLAYTON - THE BEST OF MERRY CLAYTON

The musical career of Merry Clayton , renowned backing singer turned solo headliner, is celebrated on The Best Of Merry Clayton, available everywhere June 25th through Ode Records/Legacy, a division of Sony Music Entertainment. The first compilation ever issued on the artist, the album's 17 tracks, which include every one of her five Billboard Hot 100 chart singles on Ode Records, serve as a reminder of the touchstones of her career. The range of artists with whom Clayton has sung includes everyone from Ray Charles and Elvis Presley to the Rolling Stones, from Billy Preston and Carole King to Joe Cocker and Leon Russell , from Lynyrd Skynyrd and Ringo Starr to Taj Mahal and Neil Young , and scores more.

The release of The Best Of Merry Clayton coincides with June theatrical openings of 20 Feet From Stardom in select cities. Award-winning director Morgan Neville's new film features Clayton, Darlene Love , and others, documenting the untold true story of the backup singers behind some of the greatest musical legends of the modern era. The soundtrack album to 20 Feet From Stardom, with classic rock and R&B tracks by (or featuring) Clayton, Love, Lisa Fischer , Tata Vega , Claudia Lennear , and others, will be available June 18th from Columbia Records.

Neville's 20 Feet From Stardom follows nearly 20 years of documentary filmmaking on subjects including Brian Wilson , Stax Records, Sun Records' Sam Phillips , Cowboy Jack Clement, Johnny Cash , Iggy and the Stooges, Ray Charles , Pearl Jam, and others. Neville has produced and directed multiple entries in A&E's Biography series (on Nat King Cole , Leiber & Stoller, Burt Bacharach, and others) and the PBS American Masters series (on Hank Williams , Muddy Waters, and Carole King / James Taylor ).

After nearly a decade behind the scenes, Merry Clayton became an "overnight" star in December 1969, when she was cast as Mick Jagger's vocal collaborator in "Gimme Shelter," the opening track of the Rolling Stones' album, Let It Bleed. The raging urgency of her vocal ("War, children, yeah, it's just a shot away/ It's just a shot away") capsulated the turmoil of the times. Clayton was signed by Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame producer Lou Adler to his Ode Records label, and her debut solo LP was issued the following year.

The album was titled Gimme Shelter and was the first of three soul-drenched LPs that Clayton recorded for Ode, all of them packed with covers of contemporary rock, pop, R&B, gospel, and more. Gimme Shelter was followed by the self-titled Merry Clayton (1971, produced by Adler), and Keep Your Eye On The Sparrow (1975, produced by Gene McDaniels ). Adler and Legacy reissue producer Rob Santos have sourced the majority of the 17 tracks on The Best Of Merry Clayton from her three Ode albums:

•Gimme Shelter, with the Stones' title tune, and her versions of the Doors' "Tell All The People," James Taylor's "Country Road," Simon & Garfunkel's "Bridge Over Troubled Water," and Spooky Tooth's "Forget It I Got It";

•Merry Clayton , with Neil Young's "Southern Man," Carole King's "After All This Time," and "Walk On In," Bill Withers' "Grandma's Hands," Billy Preston's "Sho'Nuff," Leon Russell's "A Song For You";

•Keep Your Eye On The Sparrow, with its title tune that was the theme song, originally sung by Sammy Davis Jr. , of the '70s police drama Baretta.

Two of the tracks on The Best Of Merry Clayton are taken from a rare non-LP single issued between albums in 1972. The A-side was Goffin & King's "Oh No, Not My Baby," first introduced by Maxine Brown in 1964, and a pop staple ever since. Clayton's version earned her a Grammy Award® nomination for Best Female R&B Vocal in 1972. The B-side was Elvis Presley's "Suspicious Minds" (written by Mark James ), suggesting that Clayton may have been among the backing singers at Presley's American Studios sessions in Memphis of January-February 1969, when he first recorded the song.

Three of the tracks on The Best Of Merry Clayton are LP rarities that not only show off her versatility, but also indicate the wide-ranging, eclectic nature of Lou Adler's Ode Records label. Bob Dylan's "The Mighty Quinn" is from a 1969 album, Dylan's Gospel, in which ten of his folk and rock songs were given grand gospel treatments, as recorded by the Brothers and Sisters. This gathering of some two dozen voices not only included Clayton, but such female gospel and R&B luminaries as Patrice Holloway , Gloria Jones , Clydie King , Julia Tillman , Edna Wright , and others. The album was produced and directed by Lou Adler , and arranged and conducted by Gene Page .

The enigmatic movie soundtrack for MGM's Brewster McCloud (1970) featured one side of tracks mainly written and performed by John Phillips , fresh from the Mamas & the Papas. Three of these featured Clayton, but it is generally agreed that the version of "Lift Ev'ry Voice And Sing (Black National Hymn)" is one of the most stirring versions of that anthem ever recorded. Again, this track was produced by Lou Adler , and arranged by Gene Page .

The final track on The Best Of Merry Clayton is her climactic take as "The Acid Queen" from the Who's rock opera, Tommy. In this case, it was the all-star 1972 version that was recorded with the London Symphony Orchestra and London Chamber Choir conducted by David Measham , featuring singers Steve Winwood , Rod Stewart , Richie Havens , Ringo Starr , and others. For decades, pundits have debated Clayton's "Acid Queen" vis-a-vis Tina Turner's interpretation in the 1975 film version of Tommy.

Born in New Orleans on Christmas Day, 1948 (hence "Merry"), pop history notes that Clayton's first major session took place at age 13 in 1962. The occasion was a duet with Bobby Darin on "Who Can I Count On? (When I Can't Count On You)" from his album, You're The Reason I'm Living (released 1963). She was still a teenager when she started as one of Ray Charles' backing singers in the Raelettes in the 1960s. By the mid-'60s, Clayton had emerged as a first-call voice onstage and on hundreds of recordings that bore her name in the credits (and hundreds, perhaps thousands more that didn't credit her). Her presence on the Stones' "Gimme Shelter" propelled her to a new level of stardom, and she found a home with Ode Records and Lou Adler .

Liner notes for The Best Of Merry Clayton are written by former Del Fuegos member, and now college professor Dr. Warren Zanes , whose credits include notes on historic packages by George Harrison and Dusty Springfield . Discussing the world of backing singers, he writes, "They've been able to enter into the widest range of musical situations and do what's needed. Many backing singers adapt chameleon-like to the situation and never develop a distinctive 'character' voice. But there are certainly exceptions. And Merry Clayton is one of them. She is gifted with a voice that gives her a place in both worlds. Here is a singer who can do it all."

The Best Of Merry Clayton
Selections: 1. Southern Man (D) * 2. Tell All The People (C) * 3. Country Road (C, Hot 100 #103) * 4. After All This Time (D, Hot 100 #71) * 5. Gimme Shelter (C, (Hot 100 #73) * 6. Grandma's Hands (D) * 7. Oh No, Not My Baby (Ode single 66030, originally released 1972, Hot 100 #72) * 8. Walk On In (D) * 9. Bridge Over Troubled Water (C) * 10. The Mighty Quinn by the Brothers and Sisters (featuring Merry Clayton ) (A, Ode single ZS7-121, originally released 1969) * 11. Sho'Nuff (D) * 12. Forget It I Got It (C) * 13. Keep Your Eye On The Sparrow (F, Hot 100 #45, Ode single 66110, originally released 1975, from the Universal T.V. series Baretta) * 14. Suspicious Minds (Ode single 66030, originally released 1972, B-side of Oh No, Not My Baby) * 15. A Song For You (D) * 16. Lift Ev'ry Voice And Sing (Black National Hymn) (B, Ode single 66011) * 17. The Acid Queen – Merry Clayton with the London Symphony Orchestra and London Chamber Choir Conducted by David Measham (E).

Album index:
A – from Dylan's Gospel by the Brothers and Sisters (originally released 1969, as Ode 44018)
B – from Brewster McCloud original soundtrack (originally released 1970, as MGM 1SE-28ST)
C – from Gimme Shelter (originally released 1970, as Ode 77001)
D – from Merry Clayton (originally released 1971, as Ode 77012)
E – from Tommy (originally released 1972, as Ode 99001)
F – from Keep Your Eye On The Sparrow (originally released 1975, as Ode 77030)

Source: Legacy Recordings