Bobby McFerrin to Headline the Duke Ellington School of the Arts 8th Annual Performance Series of Legends Benefit Concert

The Duke Ellington School of the Arts is excited to announce that 10-time Grammy award winner Bobby McFerrin will headline Duke Ellington School of the Arts' 8th annual Performance Series of Legends benefit concert on Wednesday, May 20, 2015 at 7:30pm at the Warner Theatre.

Multi-faceted and multi-talented Bobby McFerrin has blurred the distinction between pop music and fine art, exploring uncharted vocal territory, inspiring a whole new generation of a cappella singers and the beatbox movement and dazzling audiences all over the world. He singlehandedly redefined the role of the human voice with his a cappella hit "Don't Worry, Be Happy." Bobby McFerrin promotes an extraordinary experience through spontaneous performance, engaging audiences with creative energy.

Its signature fundraising benefit concert, the Duke Ellington School of the Arts' Performance Series of Legends has previously featured Dave Chappelle; Denyce Graves; Stevie Wonder; Earth Wind & Fire; Smokey Robinson; Patti Labelle; Sting and Paul Simon. Featured artists help to raise money for the school and also contribute to the artistic enrichment of students that work with them in performance or master classes. Last year, Sting noted "I've agreed to work with schools before and you always think 'oh well they're kids', but this was of a higher order -- the singing and the playing and just the commitment. And it was absolutely inspiring for us. I'm blown away!" The Duke Ellington School of the Arts has taken an innovative, entrepreneurial approach to fundraising in order to support its dual arts and academic curriculum, and continue the vision of its co-founders Peggy Cooper Cafritz and the late Mike Malone.

Tickets ($50 - $150 each) are currently on sale at www.ellingtonschool.org. VIP Tickets ($250 each) and Sponsorship Opportunities ($1,000 - $75,000) are available through The Ellington Fund at 202-299-5663 or info@ellingtonarts.org. Sponsorships include invitation to a pre-performance master class and open sound check with Bobby McFerrin.

Since its inception in 1974, the Duke Ellington School of the Arts has upheld its mission of providing an exemplary arts and academic education to talented youth who may not otherwise have that opportunity. An independently operated public school in partnership with the Ellington Fund, George Washington University, The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts and DC Public Schools, it serves over 500 students from all wards of the District, Maryland and Virginia. At Ellington, students specialize in dance, literary media and communications, museum studies, instrumental and vocal music, theatre, technical design and production, and visual arts. With a graduation and college acceptance rate averaging 95%, Ellington is proof of what it means to successfully educate young people for the 21st century -- in and through the arts.

NEAL SCHON To Release VORTEX, New CD Embraces Elements of Jazz, Classical, World & Rock

Guitarist Neal Schon has announced the release of Vortex on June 23.  The 2-CD all-instrumental album utilizes rock as its foundation, while also embracing elements of jazz, classical and world music in an 18-track stunning, sonically explosive collection of original compositions.  The release is dedicated to Schon's best friend and wife, who serves as his true inspiration every day (Both "Lady M" and "Triumph of Love" were written for her, the latter of which he performed at their wedding on December 15, 2013).  Schon shares, "This is an evolutionary album for me.  I've always aspired to be a better player and push musical boundaries. And sure, I've sold 80-million records with Journey, and I'm proud of that, but this album is really me — all based on my guitar, which is my 'voice.' It's bold. There's love, and there's definitely fire and an element of danger. And the energy level is off the hook."

That's evident from the first, mysterious-sounding measures of "Miles Beyond," the scalding tribute to jazz genius Miles Davis' pioneering fusion recordings that opens the album. The tune blends Schon's soaring leads, tectonic plates of grinding rhythm and brilliantly layered melodies within an arrangement that embraces Middle Eastern flourishes plus flashes of African drumming by Steve Smith. "Schon & Hammer Now" is a furious jam between the guitarist and his longtime friend and creative foil, Grammy-winning keyboardist Jan Hammer, whose many accomplishments include charter membership in the groundbreaking Mahavishnu Orchestra.  And the two match their brilliant technique and relentless invention throughout, sparring with the grace and speed of a young Mohammad Ali.  Schon reveals, "Jan is all over this album. I wrote the material to give Jan room to stretch.  There are not many three-minute ditties. It's all huge, epic, bombastic…futuristic."  After hearing the completed album for the first time, Hammer made a succinct observation, "This is f****** amazing."

"Airliner NS910" is further proof. It's all speed and swagger, with Schon skywriting the song's sweetly singing theme in the indelible vapor trail of the instantly recognizable operatic tones of his signature model Paul Reed Smith guitars. He reflects, "Since Vortex is a two-record set, it's both my ninth and tenth solo albums.  That's where the 'NS910' comes from."

The music of Vortex originated in the hard drives that Schon is constantly filling with ideas for riffs, melodies and chord progressions at home. But they came to life at Berkeley's Fantasy Studios, his preferred spot for recording since Journey cut the 10-times-platinum number-one album Escape there in 1981. Schon states, "It's my home away from home.  I spend so much time there that they've given me my own locker."

Schon produced and played bass on Vortex, too, and was joined in the studio by Smith and keyboardist Igor Len. Hammer and Len also appeared on Schon's seventh solo album, The Calling, which was followed by the blues-inspired hard rock album So U.  He offers, "Igor and Jan complement each other, and me, beautifully."  And Vortex's "Eternal Love" is a testament to Len's creativity. The song, a richly emotional ballad, features Len alone on piano. The guitarist observes, "He sat down and played the tune spontaneously, and it was so gorgeous and deep that I had to have it on my album." Schon offers his own reflective solo performance on Vortex with the sparsely arranged acoustic guitar meditation "Mom," dedicated to his mother, Barbara Schon. He reveals, "Like most of the performances on this album, it wasn't premeditated.  I'd just pick up a guitar and tell my engineer Jesse Nichols to hit ProTools."

The intensely creative guitar giant has always had a seemingly innate ability to make glorious music. He began playing at age five and was inspired by soul vocalists like Aretha Franklin and Gladys Knight, and blues and jazz guitarists ranging from B.B. King, Albert King and Eric Clapton to Wes Montgomery. When Schon was just 15 years old, Carlos Santana invited him to join his band. Schon's recording debut was on the classic 1971 album Santana III. He played the solo on the LP's hit single "Everybody's Everything." Recently Schon has been working with Carlos Santana on a new album, co-writing songs and playing key performances including homecoming Santana concerts in Guadalajara and Mexico City that included Journey as the opening band.

Schon formed Journey in 1973 and has led the band through its astonishing 42-year history. Along the way Journey has sold well over 80 million albums, amongst which the band's Greatest Hits release was certified Diamond by the RIAA for sales in excess of 10 million copies.  To date sales now exceed 15 million copies.  Eight other Journey album releases have been certified multi-platinum.  Neal Schon co-wrote the timeless hit "Don't Stop Believin,'" which now holds the title as the most digitally downloaded song in history.  Seventeen additional Journey singles were Top 40 hits.  Schon has received multiple Grammy award nominations for both his work with Journey and his solo recordings, and Journey has been nominated for the Rock 'n' Roll Hall of Fame.

Besides solo albums and tours and his historic work with Journey, Schon has an extensive history of blue-ribbon collaborations. These include co-founding the supergroup Bad English and forming bands with vocalists Paul Rodgers and Sammy Hagar. He released two collaboration albums with Jan Hammer, Untold Passion and Here To Stay, while also performing on releases from Michael Bolton, Return to Forever's Lenny White and many others. 

One thing he's never done is considered resting on his laurels. Schon reflects, "I feel more aware and alive now than I've ever been.  Part of that is the sobriety I've had for the last seven years. I've also evolved as a person and a player though understanding the value of being in the moment – letting things happen and not thinking too much. There's an old blues saying: 'If you're thinkin', you're stinkin'.  When you stop thinking and just play from the heart, you discover your own voice. That's the real thing, and that's what Vortex is about for me."

With Acclaimed Musician Jamie Cullum at the Helm, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts Launches ‘Jazz Legends at St. Regis’ Series

From The St. Regis Washington, DC., Starwood Hotels & Resorts, Inc. has kicked off the ‘Jazz Legends at St. Regis’ series, an intimate set of jazz performances scheduled to take place at St. Regis properties around the world. The series will celebrate contemporary jazz as well as bring a modern interpretation to beloved jazz tunes played at the brand’s flagship hotel in New York in the 1930s and 1940s.

Throughout the Jazz Age, the Rooftop Ballroom at the iconic St. Regis New York played host to some of the finest jazz musicians in history with unforgettable performances from greats like Count Basie, Duke Ellington and Buddy Rich; it is this rich musical legacy that makes jazz the soundtrack of the St. Regis brand even today.

In celebration of the brand’s authentic tie to jazz, the quintessential American music genre, The ‘Jazz Legends at St. Regis’ series provides a platform for guests, residents and the local community to enjoy exclusive jazz performances by both celebrated musicians and emerging talent alike, curated together with Jazz at Lincoln Center (JALC), the non-profit organization whose mission it is to entertain, enrich and expand a global community for jazz.

“Jazz is an innate part of the St. Regis legacy, and it is exciting to see today’s global travellers passionate about the social and cultural tradition,” says Daphne Sipos, Global Brand Director, St. Regis Hotels & Resorts. “With the launch of the ‘Jazz Legends at St. Regis’ series, we are thrilled to entertain jazz aficionados and novices alike with innovative jazz programming, modern performances and beyond expectation experiences.”

“Jazz is woven into the fabric of our culture, evolving throughout history: respecting tradition, but also reinterpreting it,” states Jamie Cullum. “I am honored to be a part of the ‘Jazz Legends at St. Regis’ series and follow in the footsteps of some of the finest musicians that have played at St. Regis.”

The series formally launches tonight with a performance by acclaimed jazz musician and singer-songwriter Jamie Cullum at The St. Regis Washington D.C. followed by marquee events at The St. Regis Mexico City, The St. Regis Bangkok and The St. Regis Bal Harbour Resort to name a few.

This performance follows on the heels of an exclusive jazz event with Jamie Cullum at the recently opened St. Regis Istanbul earlier this month; an intimate jazz performance with Jonathan Batiste at The St. Regis Deer Valley; and before that, The Vault at the iconic St. Regis New York was transformed by event designer Bronson van Wyck into a twenties-era jazz club, which was the setting for a lively and much talked about performance by Jamie Cullum to celebrate the debut of his newest album Interlude.

NEW RELEASES: COOL MILLION - SUMTHIN" LIKE THIS; THIRD WORLD (REISSUED & EXPANDED EDITION); EYDIE GORME - A DATE WITH EYDIE GORME

COOL MILLION - SUMTHIN" LIKE THIS

After a three-year wait that has seemed like eternity for devotees of the boogie, Cool Million returns in 2015 with their long-awaited fourth album, Sumthin´Like This . But don´t be fooled by the modest title: chances are you´ve never heard anything like it! The hard-workling duo of Hardt and Ryle continue to expand their parameters as producers utilizing top-tier programming and instrumentation to deliver a uniquely faithful update of the celestial sounds found on the best of early- 80s electro funk and boogie records. Glenn Jones, Michael Jeffries, Marc Sadane, Gavin Christopher, and Atlantic Starr´s Porter Carroll are a few of the sought-after purveyors of fine soul who lend their one-of-a-kind talents to Sumthin Like This not to mention Tim Owens, who leads off the album with the irresistible title cut, an instant floor-filler that will get folks out of their seats whether they´re at the club or working on their PC. Additional contributors to Sumthin' Like This include classy singer-songwriter DJ Laura Jackson, who has appeared on every Cool Million album to date and now appears as part of the group´s touring line-up; newcomer Farina Miss; and internationally renown soulful house maestro Marc Evans, who fronts the new CD´s leadoff single, Dontcha Wanna Dance . Sumthin Like This is a feel-good, booty-shaking musica journey that will keep the party going day or night, from start to finish. ~ Amazon

THIRD WORLD (REISSUED & EXPANDED EDITION)

Four decades since their professional debut, Third World remain one of the most popular Jamaican acts in the world, effortlessly mixing Reggae, Funk and Soul to create a distinct sound of own. The success of the debut LP provided the platform upon which Third World continued to grow artistically, yet despite its significance, 'Third World' remained strangely elusive on CD, with its only issue on the format being a limited US-only pressing, released in 1999. Fortunately, for Reggae fans the world over, that oversight has finally been addressed and at long last the album has not only been made available on compact disc once more, but it has also been given the attention such a popular and ground-breaking collection undoubtedly deserves. Featured alongside the LP's original track listing are eight bonus tracks from the album sessions, with their number including alternate takes to 'Slavery Days' and 'Got To Get Along' and a trio of killer Dub cuts, all of which were previously unavailable on CD.~ Amazon

EYDIE GORME - A DATE WITH EYDIE GORME

One of Eydie Gorme's outstanding attributes was her versatility and on this compilation album featuring twenty-five songs she recorded in the early 1960s, you will find several excellent examples of this. Some tracks are appearing here on CD for the first time - "Sonny Boy" and "Before Your Time". Digitally re-mastered. She moves from favourite standards such as "You'll Never Know" and "The Nearness of You", to the exciting Latin beat of "Granada" and "Frenesi", to Broadway's "Where is Love" and finally to her fun-filled take on "Never on Sunday" renamed "I Love to Dance (But Never on Sunday)". ~ Amazon

Composer-Arranger Oded Lev-Ari - Producer of Anat Cohen, Marty Ehrlich, Duchess and More - Makes Leader Debut with Inspired Chamber Jazz of Threading

Composer-arranger-producer Oded Lev-Ari has crafted acclaimed albums by the likes of hit band 3 Cohens, clarinet icon Anat Cohen and woodwind sage Marty Ehrlich, as well as rising-star singers Amy Cervini, Melissa Stylianou and vocal trio Duchess. Now the Tel Aviv-born, New York-based Lev-Ari steps out with the first recording under his own name: Threading, available today, April 28, 2015, on Anzic Records . The album presents six inspired Lev-Ari compositions - instrumental and vocal - performed by an all-star 11-piece New York band that includes Anat Cohen and the ace Matt Wilson on drums, as well as guest vocalists Alan Hampton and Jo Lawry. Along with Lev-Ari's own pieces, the disc includes his artful instrumental and vocal arrangements of songwriter Gordon Jenkins' classic "Goodbye." The chamber-jazz sound of Threading - which features not only winds, trumpet and a textured rhythm section but also three cellos - hints at varied sonic worlds, from jazz sound painters Gil Evans and Maria Schneider to tango nuevo king Astor Piazzolla and contemporary classical composers. Ultimately, though, Lev-Ari has his own, individual soundprint, one of cinematic richness and open-hearted lyricism. 

Lev-Ari, a student of the great composer-arranger Bob Brookmeyer, says what he appreciated most about his teacher was his intrepid musical sensibility. "I love Bob's music, even if mine doesn't really sound anything like his," Lev-Ari says. "He was such an inspiring figure, particularly how courageous he was in the kind of music he let himself make. He was a keen admirer of contemporary classical, and he let that into his work, unafraid to incorporate new sounds into the big-band palette. That sort of open mind and ear is something to aspire to." 

With Threading, "space and personality" were bywords in the studio for Lev-Ari and his engineering partner, James Farber. "James and I had worked before on several albums together, and he really knows the studio we used, Sear Sound in Manhattan," Lev-Ari explains. "We're on the same page in terms of quality of sound, with space around the instruments being key. We also share a production credo, in that it's not about perfection - it's about expression, telling a story in music. The goal is capturing the essence of the music, especially in those moments where it builds organically to an emotional impact. We had a band of amazing musicians, who naturally invest personality into everything they play - and that's what makes music come alive, off the page and into the air."

The title track of Threading opens the album with irresistible shades of Piazzolla in the writing for strings and piano; then there's Anat Cohen's dynamic clarinet, her solo building to a peak as it traces lines with Nadje Noorduis's trumpet. There are indigo echoes of Oliver Nelson's "Stolen Moments" in "Lost and Found," with cool-toned solos from Will Vinson's alto sax and Brian Landrus's baritone. "Voices," incorporating a titular and textural homage to contemporary Latvian composer Peteris Vasks, resonates with a dark lyricism, the collective soloing in its middle section a priceless instance of session spontaneity; the bridge of the piece, with the composer voicing a minimalist melody on piano as winds trace arabesques above, is one of the album's most ravishing passages. There's more Vasks-esque writing for the three cellos in "Black Crow," as well as an evocation of Oded's Israeli roots. Lev-Ari's kindred-spirit connection with Anat Cohen - they have been friends and collaborators since high school in Tel Aviv - is mirrored in her Eastern European-tinged lines. "Black Crow" also features a characteristically musical drum solo by Matt Wilson. 

"E and A," the title referencing the first initials of Lev-Ari's two children (with singer Amy Cervini), brims with pastoral loveliness, as well as a mix of Old World and New World influences. A melody-rich highlight of Threading comes with "The Dance," a vocal piece for which Lev-Ari wrote both music and lyrics; the gorgeous vocal combination of Alan Hampton (a collaborator with Gretchen Parlato, among others) and Jo Lawry (Sting's go-to backing singer) sees their voices twining around each other to tell an emotional story. Then there are the two versions of "Goodbye," the Gordon Jenkins song made famous by Frank Sinatra on his LP Only the Lonely. Cohen's clarinet takes a vocal role in the instrumental, after a limpid introduction by guitarist Gilad Hekselman. And if Lev-Ari's subtle arrangement is both earthier and airier than the vintage treatment Nelson Riddle made for Sinatra, Hampton's singing is less theatrical, more conversational. Lev-Ari says: "It's an intimate piece of music that I love, and Alan has this quality to his voice that makes it seem as if he were singing just to you, revealing something very personal." 

Even with such moments of magic, Lev-Ari called the album Threading to evoke the sense of craftsmanship that goes into making music. "A work of art really is a magical thing, and people don't always want to know how the trick is done," he explains. "But writing, arranging and recording can be exacting, almost physical work, like sewing or weaving. That's something that always comes to mind when I'm writing, particularly for a larger ensemble. I wanted to hint at the tradesman-like craft of the work, those aspects of loving, hard-won detail that you hope add up to something beautiful." 

Oded Lev-Ari: Threading

1. "Threading" 2. "Lost and Found" 3. "Goodbye" (vocal version) 4. "Voices" 5. "Black Crow" 6. "E and A" 7. "The Dance" 8. "Goodbye" (instrumental version). All compositions by Oded Lev-Ari, except for "Goodbye" (by Gordon Jenkins)

Anat Cohen: clarinet; Will Vinson: alto & soprano saxophone; Brian Landrus: baritone saxophone & bass clarinet; Nadje Noordhuis: trumpet & flugelhorn; Alex Waterman, Yoed Nir & Noah Hoffeld: cello; Oded Lev-Ari: piano; Gilad Hekselman: guitar; Joe Martin: double-bass; Matt Wilson: drums; Alan Hampton: voice (3, 7); Jo Lawry: voice (7)

www.odedlevari.com

NEW RELEASES: JARED GOLD – METROPOLITAN RHYTHM; BLUE SOUL TEN - THE UNSPOKEN WARRIOR; DOKKERMAN & THE TURKEING FELLAZ – ILLEGAL MOVE

JARED GOLD – METROPOLITAN RHYTHM

Stellar Hammond from one of the best contemporary talents on the instrument – and one of the few who can really make the organ cook in a stripped-down setting like this! Gold has a tone and touch that's somewhere between Don Patterson and Larry Young – the free flights of the latter in his Blue Note years, mixed with the inherent sense of rhythm that Patterson brought to his Prestige classics in the 60s – that ability to open up, yet never lose the groove – even as Gold holds down both the long solo lines with his fingers, and also the basslines with his feet! The trio's got the loose, open vibe of a Patterson group – with Dave Stryker on guitar and Kush Abadey on drums – but Jared's also very much his own man, with a flurry of creative phrasing, and a very individual sense of time as well. Titles include the originals "Homenagem", "Check In", and "In A Daze" – plus "Maybe I'm Amazed", "Let's Call This", "Risco", and "God Has Smiled On Me".  ~ Dusty 

BLUE SOUL TEN - THE UNSPOKEN WARRIOR

The Unspoken Warrior expresses Blue Soul Ten’s approach to life, and aims to leave listeners with a positive vibe that transcends

superficial, short‐lived music. The album is the result of a fusion between soul, lounge, R&B and jazz – common Blue Soul Ten influences. The lead single, Music Box is a chill track driven by pulsing drums, soulful guitar licks, ambient backgrounds, and a lead sax solo that tops the musical bed of sound. Meant to resurrect vintage music boxes, and with a respectful nod to hip hop classics, Music Box takes the listener through 4 minute ride, narrated by the voice of the box itself. Blue Soul Ten is the stage name for Greenehouse Music’s owner and primary producer Claye Greene. After producing for several independent acts, Claye decided to work on a series of solo albums that draws upon all of his musical influences. The Unspoken Warrior is the first of a three‐album series that will tie together similar vibes, and tell a story across a related set of musical works.Blue Soul Ten has been garnering favorable initial reviews, and will be featured on several blogs and independent radio stations. World‐wide release is set for May 26th, 2015.

DOKKERMAN & THE TURKEING FELLAZ – ILLEGAL MOVE

Hungary may be a small country but it punches above its weight when it comes to the funk! Formerly of the Eastern bloc, the cultural and musical heritage of this part of Europe is every bit as rich the likes of West Africa and as such it is a melting pot bubbling with rhythms and influences. Now imagine, if you will, some of this Eastern European brew sprinkled with a little bit of afro spice and then blended with a massive dose of classic heavyweight Stateside funk and you'll have some idea of what Dokkerman & The Turkeying Fellaz (D&TTF) are all about. The nine piece band, lead by keyboard player Tamas Michelberger (aka Dokkerman), contains a tight rhythm section, a tight horn section and the ability to lay down a bad-ass groove - which collectively results in a raw and dirty old-school sound that recalls the funky golden era of the '60s and '70s. And yet the band also has that which differentiates it from the likes of Ikebe Shakedown or the Menahan Street Band in singer Gabor "The Flame" Hoffer whose chants offer added Magyar rawness. In short, D&TTF breathe new life into vintage funk and trashy garage rock underpinning everything with afro-funk rhythms in a unique addition to the contemporary scene that's guaranteed to make you move. In fact it's so danceable it should be made illegal.

Detroit Jazz Festival Announces Lineup for 36th Annual Event

Danili Perez / Maria Schneider / Anat Cohen

The Detroit Jazz Festival announces a diverse lineup of headlining acts for the 36th annual Labor Day Weekend Festival, set to take place September 4-7. The lineup is the culmination of the Festival's commitment to bringing an eclectic and unique group of jazz musicians to downtown Detroit, while delivering a collection of performances that includes a Homecoming Series with Detroit natives, exciting new artists, legends, and student groups all connected around musical experiences that cannot be seen anywhere else in the world. 

"Detroit is a place filled with soul, culture and creativity, and we have a great legacy of jazz here. Our Festival-the world's largest free jazz festival-truly showcases what makes our city special," said Gretchen Valade, chair of the Detroit Jazz Festival Foundation's Board of Directors. "Being part of the Festival since its inception, it has been rewarding to watch it grow and become an event that is woven into the fabric of the Detroit and Jazz communities. We're looking to add to its legacy with another collection of unforgettable performances this year." 

In his fourth year as artistic director, Chris Collins has once again curated a world-class lineup that is truly representative of the genre in all its facets. Launching this vision is 2015 Artist in Residence Pat Metheny, presented by Absopure, who will grace all four stages throughout the weekend with sets including:

Pat Metheny Trio with Antonio Sánchez, Scott Colley & special guest Kenny Garrett

Pat Metheny acoustic duo with Ron Carter

Pat Metheny Reunion with Gary Burton Quartet

Pat Metheny, Scott Colley, Antonio Sánchez, and Danny Gottlieb with the Detroit Jazz Festival Big Band and String Orchestra, Conducted by Alan Broadbent, performing new works including the North American premiere of Metheny's multi-movement/multi-media tribute to Eberhard Weber.

  

The full 2015 lineup includes (in alphabetical order):

Monty Alexander: Harlem-Kingston Express

Brian Blade & The Fellowship Band

Richard Bona: Mandekan Cubano

Joanne Brackeen Quartet

Ron Carter

Will Calhoun Quartet with Greg Osby

Ron Carter Trio

ANAT COHEN Celebrando Brasil: From Rio to Minas

Eddie Daniels jazz version of Vivaldi's Four Seasons for Detroit with the Detroit Jazz Festival String Orchestra and original narration from Douglas Preston

Dave Douglas Quintet

Paquito D'Rivera Quintet

Kenny Garrett Quintet

Charlie Haden's Liberation Music Orchestra: Conductor Carla Bley, Bassist Steve Swallow

Jon Irabagon Quartet

Jungle Funk Trio

Oliver Lake Organ Quartet

Carmen Lundy

Mack Avenue SuperBand

Rudresh Mahanthappa "Bird Calls"

René Marie Experiment in Truth

Ken Peplowski Quartet

Danilo Pérez - World premiere of his commissioned Detroit World Suite

Ester Rada

Arturo Sandoval

Maria Schneider Orchestra

The John Scofield & Joe Lovano Quartet

Tuba Skinny

Christian Scott Sextet

"Benny's Threads" - Inspired by the artistry of Benny Goodman, featuring new compositions by Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band, spoken word from author Douglas Preston, and superstar clarinetists featuring Anat Cohen, Eddie Daniels, Paquito D'Rivera and Ken Peplowski

Steve Turre and James Carter: Rahsaan Roland Kirk Birthday Celebration

James "Blood" Ulmer & Black Music Experience featuring Queen Esther

Manuel Valera & Groove Square

To see the full lineup, visit detroitjazzfest.com

Bessie: Music From The HBO Film features Queen Latifah, Louis Armstrong & His Hot Seven, Cecile McLorin Salvant and others

Legacy Recordings has announced the digital release of Bessie (Music from the HBO Film) on Tuesday, May 12. The official soundtrack for the upcoming HBO film will also be released on CD on Tuesday, June 2. The biographic film Bessie, starring Queen Latifah as blues legend Bessie Smith, premieres on HBO on Saturday, May 16.

An evocative collection combining historic and contemporary recordings, Bessie (Music from the HBO Film) debuts seven new Queen Latifah performances including "Young Woman Blues," "Preachin' The Blues," "Long Old Road," "Down Hearted Blues," "Work House Blues," "Weepin' Woman Blues" (a duet with vocalist Pat Bass) and "Gimme A Pigfoot and A Bottle Of Beer (2015 Remix)."

Bessie (Music from the HBO Film) premieres "Gimme A Pigfoot and A Bottle Of Beer (2015 Remix)," a postmodern reworking of Bessie Smith's original recording featuring newly recorded vocals, ad-libs and raucous banter by Queen Latifah set to enhanced instrumentation remixed and produced by Adam Blackstone and Queen Latifah.  "Gimme A Pigfoot and A Bottle Of Beer (2015 Remix)" is a dream collaboration between the Empress of the Blues and Queen Latifah that exemplifies the brilliance of each of the artists while celebrating the musical soul that unites their eras and generations.

"This is a project that has been close to my heart for many years....to not only star as Bessie Smith but to also produce the film and the soundtrack is a dream for me.  Recording this music was an incredible journey and I am proud to be a part of it all." - Queen Latifah

The album features modern performances of blues, jazz and swing classics including "Prove It On Me," performed by Carmen Twillie; "See See Rider," performed by Tamar-Kali; "Laugh Clown Laugh," performed by Cecile McLorin Salvant; and two new instrumental arrangements from Vince Giordano & The Nighthawks: "I've Got What It Takes (But It Breaks My Heart To Give It Away)" and "Hot Time In The Old Town Tonight."

Legacy Recordings' Bessie (Music from the HBO Film) is rounded out with authentic period recordings from Fats Waller & His Rhythm ("A Good Man Is Hard To Find"), Louis Armstrong & His Orchestra ("[What Did I Do To Be So] Black And Blue"), Sippie Wallace ("I'm A Mighty Tight Woman") and Kid Ory's Creole Orchestra ("Ballin' The Jack").

Tracklisting: 

1) Young Woman's Blues - Queen Latifah

2) Hot Time In The Old Town  - Vince Giordano & The Nighthawks

3) Prove It On Me -  Carmen Twillie

4) Weary Blues - Louis Armstrong & His Hot Seven 

5) Weepin' Woman Blues - Queen Latifah & Pat Bass

6) See See Rider - Tamar-kali

7) Ballin' The Jack - Kid Ory's Creole Jazz Band

8) Down Hearted Blues  -  Queen Latifah

9) A Good Man Is Hard to Find -  Fats Waller & His Rhythm

10) Preachin' The Blues - Queen Latifah

11) I've Got What It Takes (But It Breaks My Heart To Give It Away) - Vince Giordano & The Nighthawks

12) Work House Blues - Queen Latifah

13) I'm a Mighty Tight Woman - Sippie Wallace

14) (What Did I Do to Be So) Black and Blue - Louis Armstrong And His Orchestra

15) Laugh, Clown, Laugh - Cecile McLorin Salvant  

16) Long Old Road - Queen Latifah

17) Gimme A Pigfoot and A Bottle of Beer (2015 Remix) - Bessie Smith featuring Queen Latifah      

 

NEW RELEASES: JERRY BUTLER - ESQ, ESKA, VALERIE SIMPSON - EXPOSED / VALERIE SIMPSON

JERRY BUTLER - ESQ

Initially a member of The Impressions, Jerry Butler was quickly singled out for special attention by Vee Jay Records, a move that didnt exactly please his erstwhile band mates. However, the success of For Your Precious Love, which received a dual credit for both Jerry and The Impressions, was the signal for two successful recording entities to emerge. Jerry Butler Esq is his debut album and one that finds him more of a supper club singer than an out and out R&B singer. This is not intended in any way detrimental to Jerry, for there is no doubt that he can handle the material with ease, including a reworking of For Your Precious Love, September Song and Come Back My Love. ~ Amazon

ESKA - ESKA

ESKA is the most talked about, revered singer you've never heard of. Prepare to be let in on one of music's best kept secrets in 2015 when ESKA finally releases her self-titled debut album. Possessing one of the best and most memorable voices in the UK right now, ESKA weaves together diverse musical elements - hints of folk, soul, psychedelia and electronica and pairs them with stirring lyrics, born from burning passion. ESKA has created something pure and timeless which echoes past traditions while at the same time managing to surprise with its stunning originality. In the UK, ESKA's music has already created a buzz; receiving strong radio support from tastemakers such as Gilles Peterson, Lauren Laverne and John Kennedy. Her debut self-released EP, was heralded by global independent community Bandcamp in their 'Best Releases of 2013'. Having built an inimitable reputation as a writer and performer through collaborations with such legends of the game as Grace Jones, Cinematic Orchestra, Zero 7 and Bobby McFerrin together with performances in some of the world's most famous venues and festivals, its time to discover ESKA's own unique sound in full force. The self-titled debut album ESKA hosts production credits from cult British electronic artist Matthew Herbert (known for remixing Björk, R.E.M. and Yoko Ono), Louis 'slipperz' Hackett and Dave Okumu of The Invisible (previous winners of iTunes 'Album Of The Year' in the UK). ~ Amazon

VALERIE SIMPSON – TWO ORIGINAL CLASSIC SOUL ALBUMS ON ONE CD: EXPOSED / VALERIE SIMPSON

Reissue of two rare Motown solo albums by the legendary songwriter/producer and recording artist Valerie Simpson. Originally issued in 1971 and 1972 respectively, "Exposed" and the self-titled "Valerie Simpson" have been out of print on CD for almost a decade. As part of the creative duo with her husband, the late Nick Ashford, Valerie's work as a songwriter and producer was at the forefront during her tenure with Motown from 1967-1972. Remastering by Alan Wilson of Western Star Studios, artwork by Roger Williams and notes by Charles Waring with additional comments by SoulMusic.com founder David Nathan, who has been interviewing Valerie since 1972. ~ Amazon

SIMPLY RED Returns With First New Studio Album In Eight Years BIG LOVE

Simply Red release their first new studio album in eight years with Big Love out June 1st on East West Records. When the band announced a massive world tour to celebrate their 30th anniversary last autumn, main man Mick Hucknall started thinking about recording again. “Once I began wondering how Simply Red were going to sound, I started writing songs,” says Mick. And once he started, he couldn’t stop. 

Big Love is the first Simply Red album to feature only original compositions since 1995’s ‘Life’. All twelve tracks are written by Mick Hucknall and produced by Andy Wright. Highlights include the celebratory first single ‘Shine On’ driven by their trademark blue-eyed soul sound and ‘The Ghost Of Love’, a big soul song punctuated by wah-wah guitar and the kind of bold orchestral strokes that once powered Barry White and his Love Unlimited. 

The break has done Mick Hucknall a power of good, newly refreshed he now has a much clearer appreciation of Simply Red’s considerable legacy. He admits that the band’s last studio album in 2007, ‘Stay’, was an attempt to pull away from their sound. “With ‘Stay’ I was running away from Simply Red,” Mick admits. “But now I’m comfortable with the notion of us as a blue-eyed soul group. I had to stop myself fighting that idea. Our sound is original too. I honestly don’t know of another band that has pulled so many musical strands together.” 

Quite simply, Big Love is Simply Red at their best, 12 tracks to cherish. With a 16 date UK tour this winter, including 3 shows at London’s 02 Arena, Simply Red are once again a band in their prime. Simply Red are: Mick Hucknall (vocals), Ian Kirkham (sax), Steve Lewinson (bass), Kenji Suuki (guitar), Kevin Robinson (trumpet and flute), Dave Clayton (keyboards) and new drummer Ronnie Roth.

Tracklisting: Shine On, Daydreaming, Big Love, The Ghost Of Love, Dad, Love Wonders,. Love Gave Me More, Tight Tones, Woru, Coming Home, The Old Man And The Beer, and Each Day

Defected Presents House Masters - Frankie Knuckles

A commemorative release selected by Frankie himself. All profits donated directly to the Frankie Knuckles fund / Elton John Aids Foundation. “This is a great mixture of Frankie's work. It shows his spirit and love of artists. His artistry will always be at the forefront of dance music and so will his energy”. Sir Elton John

Defected are honoured to announce the release of House Masters Frankie Knuckles, a charity release in collaboration with Def Mix Management and the estate of Frankie Knuckles. House Masters Frankie Knuckles is a project that began in February 2014, with Frankie hand-selecting the productions and remixes he wanted to include on a retrospective release of his illustrious career. On the sad news of his passing on 31 March 2014, the project was duly paused. Now, with the creation of The Frankie Knuckles Fund established in partnership with the Elton John Aids Foundation, the release will finally see the light of day, with all profits being donated to the charity.

Frankie Knuckles left behind perhaps the greatest house music legacy that ever was or ever will be, having made dance music at a spiritual level for nearly four decades. He established both his name and his legacy with the sound he created. Labelled ‘house’ after the Chicago club, The Warehouse, where he played during the late ‘70s and early ‘80s, it was a sound that has been copied and adapted – but crucially never bettered – by literally thousands of DJs and producers since.

The tracklist for House Masters Frankie Knuckles includes many of the most influential and highly-regarded records from the Grammy-winning producer, including ‘Tears’, ‘Your Love’, ‘The Whistle Song’ and ‘Baby Wants To Ride’ alongside seminal remixes for Alison Limerick, Inner City, Chaka Khan, Hercules & Love Affair, First Choice and Pet Shop Boys.

The release will be accompanied by a limited edition commemorative t-shirt, available exclusively from the Defected online store, with all profits being donated to the Frankie Knuckles Fund. 

“The Elton John AIDS Foundation is honoured to be administering a new Fund in memory of Frankie Knuckles. This fund will support the Foundation’s work with young men of colour around the World, particularly gay men, who are often subject to severe discrimination and abuse and who struggle to get compassionate information and treatment about HIV and AIDS.” Anne Aslett, Elton John AIDS Foundation

The passing of Frankie Knuckles may have left a gaping hole in many of our lives, but the music lives on. 100% of the profits will be donated to the Frankie Knuckles Fund. ~ Amazon

Fourth Annual Asheville Percussion Festival To Be Held June 19-21, 2015 In Asheville, NC

The Asheville Percussion Festival is being held June 19-21, 2015 in beautiful Asheville, NC. Come enjoy a creative environment where percussionists and dancers of all traditions, from around the globe, gather to explore, create and innovate. All workshops on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday will be held at the Odyssey Community School. 

The Masters Concert, which will feature collaborative compositions from our world-renowned teaching artists, will be held at the Diana Wortham Theatre on Saturday June 20 at 8pm. Percussionists wanting more instruction and collaboration will find it in a week-long intensive program which begins Monday, June 15 at the Odyssey location. 

The thrilling line up for this year’s festival includes percussion artist BASHIRI JOHNSON who is unquestionably one of the most visible and recorded percussionists on the planet. Bashiri has performed and recorded with Michael Jackson, Madonna, Steve Winwood, The Rolling Stones, Gloria Estefan, Whitney Houston, Paul Simon, Miles Davis, Ray Charles, Eric Clapton, Aretha Franklin, Sting, Queen, Bob Dylan, James Taylor and Nina Simone. 

Also joining our percussion family this year is percussionist Jeff Sipe who performs in a variety of genres, including Southern rock, jam bands, avant-garde rock, avant-garde jazz, and even progressive bluegrass and the dazzling and charismatic Djembe/Conga artist Monette Marino-Keta. Joyfully included in this year's stellar line-up are Asheville local favorites award winning re-percussionist Billy Jonas, River Guerguerian and "Voted Best World Music group in Western North Carolina 2013" by the Mountain XPress: Free Planet Radio. Free Planet Radio was awarded a prestigious grant from the Chamber Music America Classical Commissioning Program to compose a three-movement piece with special guests The Opal String Quartet. The premiere of the piece will be on the June 20th Masters Concert at the Diana Wortham Theatre. This will be the first year that the festival will also include an art show, displaying colorful and creative works by regional and national artists at the Odyssey Community School throughout the Festival.

This Year’s Complete Performing Artist Lineup:

BASHIRI JOHNSON | MONETTEMARINO-KEITA | JEFF SIPE | MIRANDA RONDEAU | RIVER GUERGUERIAN | ADAM MAALOUF | APARNA KESHAVIAH | SUPHALA | FREE PLANET RADIO | BILLY JONAS | BRANDI MIZILCA | MATTHEW RICHMOND | KEVORK GUERGUERIAN

There will be over 20 Workshops for percussionists of all levels. Topics will include global rhythms on variety of drums, performance techniques, improvising, composing, and dancing taught by world-renowned performers. There are many ticketing options. 

A Weekend Festival Pass includes entry into all workshops on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at the Odyssey Community School and the concert at the Diana Wortham Theatre on Saturday evening. The Intensive Program includes 5 hours of classes/rehearsals per day Monday June 15 - Thursday June 18, a weekend festival pass, and performing a group piece in the Saturday concert. The Intensive Program is for experienced percussionists. There will also be an open Collaboration Room for participants to get together, jam, and share ideas.

www.ashevillepercussionfestival.com

Newport Festivals Foundation™ and Salve Regina University to Present Performance and Jazz Combo Master Class on International Jazz Day, April 30, Featuring Danilo Perez & The Berklee Global Jazz Institute

Newport Festivals Foundation, Inc.™ (NFF), in collaboration with the Department of Music, Theatre and Dance at Salve Regina University, will present two events with award-winning jazz pianist Danilo Perez and the Berklee Global Jazz Institute on International Jazz Day (IJD), Thursday, April 30. A concert for Newport public school students from Pell Elementary, Thompson Middle and Rogers High Schools is set for 10:00 - 11:00 am and a workshop for Jazz Combos will take place from 1:00 - 3:00 pm at the historic Casino Theatre, 9 Freebody Street in Newport.

While a limited number of student ensembles from across Rhode Island and Massachusetts have been selected to participate in the Master Class sessions, other registered students will participate as audience to gain valuable performance insights from Perez as he assesses, critiques and coaches the workshop combos.  Alan Bernstein, Supervisor of the Arts for Newport Public Schools, and Peter Davis, Chairman of Salve Regina University's Department of Music, Theatre and Dance, are coordinators of the Master Class. Bernstein worked with teachers at the Newport Public Schools to prepare the students for their musical encounter. 

"This is the second year that Newport Festivals Foundation has partnered with Salve Regina to host International Jazz Day events," said George Wein, NFF CEO and producer of the Newport Jazz Festival® since it began in 1954.  "Both of these exchanges between students and musicians will help bring insight into jazz and the Festival while providing young musicians the opportunity to learn from and interact with some of today's outstanding performers. We are pleased to join with jazz institutions around the world to bring attention to this great music on this special day." 

Last year, Newport Festivals Foundation and the Salve Regina University Department of Music, Theatre and Dance celebrated IJD with workshops and a concert by Jon Batiste and Stay Human. 

In November 2011, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) officially designated April 30 as International Jazz Day (IJD) to highlight jazz and its diplomatic role of uniting people in all corners of the globe. Led by Irina Bokova, UNESCO Director General, and legendary pianist/composer Herbie Hancock, this year's celebration will be held in Paris, France.   IJD brings together communities, schools, artists, historians, academics, and jazz enthusiasts all over the world to celebrate and learn about jazz and its roots, future and impact; raise awareness of the need for intercultural dialogue and mutual understanding; and reinforce international cooperation and communication. International Jazz Day is the culmination of Jazz Appreciation Day, which draws public attention to jazz and its extraordinary heritage throughout April. To learn more about the annual world-wide celebration, visit http://jazzday.com/. 

Danilo Perez was born in Panama in 1965 and started his musical studies when he was three years old with his father, a bandleader and singer. By age 10, he was studying the European classical piano repertoire at the National Conservatory in Panama. After receiving his bachelor's degree in electronics in Panama, he studied jazz composition at Berklee College of Music in Boston where, in addition to his busy touring schedule, he is also a member of the faculty. Perez has become a very successful and influential musician and shares his belief in music as a force to unite the world in peace, cooperation and communality.  Perez has served as Cultural Ambassador to the Republic of Panama, Goodwill Ambassador to UNICEF and has received numerous awards for his musical achievements, activism and social work efforts. He also established the Danilo Perez Foundation whose purpose is to provide opportunities for young people to develop their full potential and lead productive lives. The values and attitudes that are essential to the foundation promote education and interpretation in music. Perez' musical influences are an amalgam of indigenous Panamanian folk music and dances, European art music, African rhythms and American jazz. On his latest album, Panama 500 he uses a mixture of traditional Panamanian instruments along with jazz instruments, including piano, violin, bass, percussion and harmonica, which takes the place of the traditional accordion. 

As an educator, Perez is the artistic director of the Berklee Global Jazz Institute (BGJI). The Institute is a performance program designed to foster creativity and musicianship through various musical disciplines.  The BGJI provides a comprehensive contemporary music environment where students are given opportunities to explore their creativity to the highest level possible, advance the power of music as a tool for the betterment of society, and connect musical creative thinking with the natural environment. The BGJI Ensemble will accompany Perez on International Jazz Day. 

The Newport Festivals Foundation™ was founded by George Wein in 2010 to build up and continue the legacies of the famed Newport Jazz Festival® (July 31-August 2,2015) and Newport Folk Festival® (July 24-26, 2015). Under the auspices of the Foundation, the Newport Jazz Festival® presents performers who respect and honor jazz music traditions, and at the same time reflect the changes in today's musical trends. Through the establishment of partnerships with local high schools and colleges/universities, the Foundation will present programs to educate young people about jazz music as presented at the annual festival. The Foundation also will present a Family Concert at Fort Adams on July 29. For more information, please visit www.newportfestivalsfoundation.org. 

Founded by the Sisters of Mercy in 1947, Salve Regina is a private, coeducational university offering a comprehensive and innovative liberal arts education in the Catholic tradition that fosters the development of each student's distinct and individual talents. Accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges, the University enrolls more than 2,500 undergraduate and graduate students from across the U.S. and around the world.

Federico Britos Presents Hot Club of The Americas

I don’t know anyone who doesn’t like Federico Britos, a musician so versatile and charismatic that he’ll get called for a dance, an operetta, a cocktail party or simply to have a drink in his endearing company; to chat in some Miami café. It’s that the legendary Uruguayan violinist speaks like he plays, and plays with the same ease and freedom as when he’s fascinating us one of his many anecdotes from his long and varied musical career........ I met Federico in that problematic and feverish Habana of the 60’s, where apart from his work with the Opera and Ballet orchestras led by Felix Guerrero, he organized a trio with his compatriot bassist Federico Garcia Vigil, who in that particular group played the guitar and sang in Portuguese. On bass they had an American mulato, enigmatic and painteresque, named Mario Lagarde who had arrived in Cuba around the same time as Chicago saxophonist Eddie Torriente. People called the trio “Los Federicos”, and in an era of confusion and absolute disinformation, where our country did not have access to recordings of any kind, it was through this band that Cuban musicians, who only knew of the Bossa Nova through references, heard for the first time the marvelous composistions of Bonfá, Jobim, Vinicius de Moraes, João Gilberto and Roberto Menescal. It can be said that in some way, “Los Federicos” played a significant role in the unconditional love that some of my contemporaries have felt for brazilian music since then.

As Bebo Valdés would have had said: “De allá pa’cá mucho ha llovido” (heretofore there’s been much rain) and from those days to now, that popular Montevidean musician has been performing chamber music, commercial sessions and international tours with the great Cachao, even playing in Jazz clubs, symphonic concerts and recordings with Charlie Haden amongst other artists of the most diverce musical styles. But above all of these activities, Federico the Uruguayan (as we’ve always affectionately called him) felt a particular devotion to Django Reinhardt, Stephane Grappelli and The Hot Club of France. This CD is an original form of tribute to the music of that era and it’s most significant composers. I say “an original form of tribute,” due to the fact that the art of the sounds isn’t just notes, but how those notes are played, and obviously, in this project, this extremely well known music, frequently revisited throughout the world, is treated in a very particular and unique way. Duke Ellington, on many occasions, spoke of how a good arrangement is like a re-composition, and this is precisely the case concerning Hugo Sánchez and Jaui Schneider, as their arrangements, coupled with the exquisite interpretation of the participating musicians, gives the impression that Grappelli was Cuban, Reinhardt Brazilian, and that the Hot Club of France could very well have been based in Miami’s own Coconut Grove. Bravo Federico!

TONY ADAMO & THE NEW YORK JAZZ CREW DELIVER COOL HIPNESS ON THEIR LATEST RELEASE

True hipness is a most elusive substance, consistently pursued, often pretended and rarely captured. But make no mistake, Tony Adamo is HIP (capital letters demanded) in full evidence on his new Urbanzone Records album Tony Adamo & The New York Crew. Now we’re not talking about some snap-brim fedora, hipster chic, cool attitude take on hipness – but the real deal. We’re talking about Miles, Monk and Sonny trading fours after hours at the Five Spot, with Frank and Dino knocking back Jack on the rocks while Kerouac, Ferlinghetti, Lord Buckley and Lenny Bruce riff on the world’s absurdity – that kind of hip.

On this knockout album, Tony and his Crew deliver what is essentially eleven short films, each one painting a stunningly visual portrait of a fascinating world and some of its most captivating and compelling denizens. Driven on a soundtrack of explosively spirited and utterly delightful music, the spectacularly imaginative screenplay is depicted through a prism that Tony calls Vocal/HipSpokenWord.

Rooted in a style that goes back to Fats Waller through the beat poets, Jean Shepard’s work with Mingus on The Clown, then maturing with the seminal hip-hop roots of Gil-Scott Heron and The Last Poets, and ripened by Chuck D with Public Enemy, Tony has mastered that entire vernacular to portray his vividly expressive landscapes.

In most cases the musicians on vocal albums are relegated to creating the contexts for the vocalist to shine, but Tony Adamo & The New York Crew is an ensemble in the truest sense of the jazz tradition. While their participation is fully dedicated to Tony’s vision, the only way that vision could be realized would be for each of them to own the music and make it theirs – which they do at every moment throughout this extraordinary recording.

Much of the group from Tony’s previous album – the heavily acclaimed Miles of Blu – are present for this one: Michael Wolff on piano, Richie Goods on bass, Tim Ouimette on trumpet, Mike Clark on drums and Bill Summers on percussion – augmented by the alto sax giant Donald Harrison. Renowned Return to Forever alumni Lenny White (who also engineered the mixing) brings his drum mastery to one track and Jean C. Santalis adds his guitar wizardry to another.

Ouimette, who spent many years with the immortal Ray Charles, provided the marvelous arrangements; and Clark, whose eminent career has blossomed from his original membership in Herbie Hancock’s Headhunters, produced the album – the second time he has done so for Tony. All of the lyrics are by Adamo and he and Clark co-composed all ten originals, joined by Ouimette on seven, Wolff on two and Harrison on one.

While Adamo’s vocals do not dominate the time frame – allowing plenty of room for the ensemble to explore and express – they are the heart and soul of this album. Occasionally singing, but mostly verbalizing in his mellifluously potent and impeccably rhythmic baritone, Tony jabs and feints like Muhammad Ali, masters time like Elvin Jones, phrases with the emphatic gospel fervor of Gene Ammons and preaches Truth like John Lee Hooker amplified by the vehement fire of Chuck D – all blended into the singular form of expression that is uniquely Tony Adamo.

The musicianship throughout is outstanding on every level – fiery, energetic, impassioned, enthusiastic, inventive and absolutely flawless in execution. The rhythm section is rooted by the deeply resonant and deliciously funky bass of Goods, buoyed by the splendid rhythmic vitality of Clark and driven by the boldly inspired virtuosity of Wolff, who also turns in some sensational solos. Ouimette’s fluidly articulate and dynamic trumpet blends perfectly with Harrison’s virile and soulful alto, blowing mightily on Tim’s arrangements and both delivering consistently brilliant solos.

The anthology of stories told on this album includes portraits of characters from the legendary to the obscure, and delves into broader concepts ranging from soulful food to Buddhism to Tony’s native New York City – which is actually a featured player throughout this entire movie.

The album opens with a portrait of the under-recognized trumpeter Eddie Gale, whose sixties cult classic Ghetto Music took Donald Byrd’s A New Perspective into the roots of the hip-hop movement. An audacious blend of rollicking horns, rip-roaring vocal, scorching alto and percussive piano culminate in an incandescent Lenny White solo over ostinato piano.

Other portraits include General T, a soulfully poignant rumination on the legendary Village Vanguard and a unique gentleman who hung heavy there; a playful sketch of the immortal Pablo Picasso as an avant-garde trumpeter on Picasso At Midnite colored by Ouimette’s coloration and Clark’s sizzle; and a blistering drawing of a mysterious figure embellished by articulately simmering harmon-muted trumpet on Wisdom of Oz.

Giants of jazz get their turn as well. Eddie Harris is remembered on Listen Here Listen Up, a deliciously funky and sanctified extension of Eddie’s classic original, with a deeply grooved Harrison solo and with Tony and Wolff distinctively giving Les McCann his props as well. Art Blakey and his notorious Jazz Messengers get their due on Messengers Burnin, a nicely syncopated sizzler in pure Blakey mode cooking in Bu’s signature uncomplicated 4/4 drive that swings like a mutha. A short nod to Bird and Diz on To Bop or Not to Be is a succinct and delectable instrumental trio of alto, muted trumpet and drums.

More abstract themes are explored on You Gotta B Fly, a straightforward mid-tempo jaunt with Tony singing from the Eddie Jefferson angle before launching into his rap, Santalis plucking some gutty twang in his short solo, and all stoked by Summers’ sparkling percussion. Summers’ congas also put the burn under Mama’s Meat Pies, a straight-up swinger with rollicking piano, a vibrantly woody bass solo, burning alto and an alto/muted trumpet duet that touches on some of that Ornette/Don Cherry special brand of swing.

Harrison’s deeply soulful alto speaks in Hank Crawford’s dialect as he introduces Tony’s talking blues over an emphatically deliberate funky bass walk on Buddhist Blues, preaching high philosophy in lowdown fashion. And the leading player in this cinematic feast is vividly portrayed in incandescent style on City Swings, a paean to the incomparable New York City with sinuous unison lines, scalding trumpet, blazing alto and shimmering piano bridging Tony’s portrayal, depicted with the inherent passion only a knowledgeable lover could bring.

Tony Adamo & The New York Crew is not only a breath of fresh or in today’s musical world, it’s an entirely new atmosphere that will refresh and uplift the head, the heart and the soul.

“I would hope that my Vocal/HipSpokenWord story telling reaches across a wide music spectrum to hip old and new generations alike to my new genre of music. My music producer, Mike Clark gathered some of the greatest musicians in New York to bring my music and lyrics alive. Tony Adamo & The New York Crew CD is a labor of love.”