De Amerikaanse singer-songwriter Anita Pointer is gisteren in haar woning in Los Angeles op 74-jarige leeftijd overleden. Zij werd wereldberoemd als lid van The Pointer Sisters. Anita Marie Pointer werd geboren in Oakland, Californië als de vierde van zes kinderen van Sarah Elizabeth Silas en dominee Elton Pointer. Beide ouders groeiden op in Arkansas en daarom reed het gezin Pointer jaarlijks van Californië naar Arkansas om Anita’s grootouders in Prescott te bezoeken. In die tijd mocht Anita langere tijd bij haar grootouders verblijven om daar naar school te gaan. Anita leerde saxofoon spelen in de McRae High School Band. In 1969 gaf Anita haar baan als secretaresse op om samen met haar jongere zussen Bonnie en June het trio The Pointer Sisters op te richten. Later voegde ook zus Ruth zich bij het trio, dat tijdelijk een kwartet werd. In 1973 braken de zussen internationaal door met de single ‘Yes We Can Can’, waarop Anita de leadzangeres was. De single bereikte de eerste plaats van de Amerikaanse Billboard Hot 100. In 1974 zorgde Anita’s schrijverstalenten ervoor dat de zussen een flinke hit scoorden met de single ‘Fairytale’. De zussen schreven muziekgeschiedenis, want The Pointer Sisters werd de eerste zwarte damesgroep die in de Grand Ole Opry mocht optreden. ‘Fairytale’ was goed voor een Grammy Award in de categorie ‘Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group’. Bonnie Pointer stapte in 1977 uit The Pointer Sisters voor een solocarrière. In de tweede helft van de jaren zeventig en de jaren tachtig veroverden The Pointer Sisters de internationale hitlijsten met de singles ‘Fire’, ‘Happiness’, ‘He's So Shy’, ‘Slow Hand’, ‘I'm So Excited’, ‘Automatic’, ‘Jump (For My Love)’ en ‘Neutron Dance’. In 1983 was het album ‘Break Out’ goed voor de tweevoudige platina status en won het trio twee Grammy Awards. In 1986, scoorde Anita Pointer een hit in een duet met countryzanger Earl Thomas Conley (‘Too Many Times’). Een jaar later kwam Anita’s soloalbum ‘Love For What It Is’ uit. De singles ‘Overnight Success’ en ‘More Than A Memory’ werden bescheiden hits. In 1994. In februari 2020 kwam Anita’s spraakmakende boek ‘Fairytale: The Pointer Sisters' Family Story’ uit, dat de zangeres samen met haar broer Fritz Pointer had geschreven. Anita Pointer ruste in vrede!

Met dank aan Leo Weijers.

NEDERLANDSE ZANGERES MARGRIET ESHUIJS (LUCIFER) OVERLEDEN

Zangeres Margriet Eshuijs is op 70-jarige leeftijd overleden. Dat heeft haar levenspartner Maarten Peters bekendgemaakt. Margriet was al enige tijd ziek. De muzikale carrière van Margriet begint al in 1963 in de band Marileens. Naast Margriet maken Ria Dekker, Henny Huisman en Leen Schoen deel uit van die band. Het oudste bandlid is twaalf jaar. Margriet heeft dan al enige ervaring als gitariste van The Bright Stars. Marileens richt zich op tieners die van hun ouders nog niet op eigen gelegenheid danslokalen mogen bezoeken. De band treedt daarom op in dansscholen in Zaandam, waar het normale stijldansen wordt verruild voor 'los dansen op beatmuziek'. Henny Huisman wordt in 1966 vervangen door Nico Fontijn (later The Surfers) en de naam van de band wordt veranderd in Equipe Z. In 1968 houdt de band het voor gezien. Huisman vormt in 1972 samen met Dick Buysmans en Pinky (Brenda Barthelemy, ex-Names & Faces) Lucifer. De groep speelt naast eigen werk ook covers van The Beatles, The Peddlers en Helen Reddy. De band pakt alle kansen aan om op te treden: op schepen van de Holland-Amerika lijn en in alle uithoeken van Nederland. Lucifer maakt zijn TV-debuut in het Engelse TV-programma ‘Opportunity Knocks’. Kort daarop verschijnen de eerste singles ‘Morning Sun’ en ‘Open Book’, die weinig doen. Pinky verlaat Lucifer. Haar plaats wordt ingenomen door Margriet Eshuijs. De doorbraak naar het grote publiek komt in april 1975 met de single ‘House For Sale’, een nummer geschreven door Gloria Sklerov en Harry Lloyd en geproduceerd en gearrangeerd door Hans Vermeulen. In augustus scoort de band opnieuw met ‘Scarlet Lady’ en in november met de single ‘I Can See The Sun In Late December’, alle producties van Vermeulen. Het debuutalbum ‘As We Are’ verschijnt en bereikt de gouden status. Lucifer doet in februari 1976 mee aan het Nationaal Songfestival met het liedje ‘Someone Is Waiting For You’. De strijkersarrangementen zijn van Dick Bakker. Hans Vermeulen beëindigt de succesvolle samenwerking met Lucifer na een conflict met platenmaatschappij Bovema-Negram. Aan het eind van het jaar besluit de band tot een vrij forse bezettingswisseling. Henny Huisman, Julio Wilson en Job Netten vormen hun eigen band Match (‘Maggie’s Ambitious Mother’). Ze worden vervangen door gitarist Ferd Berger en drummer Jan Pijnenburg (beiden ex-The Otger Dice Band). Daarna verschijnt de door Margriet geschreven single ‘Self Pity’, die in juli 1977 een hit wordt. Het album ‘Margriet’ verschijnt, maar gooit in commercieel en artistiek opzicht geen hoge ogen. Bassist Dick Buysman verlaat de groep en de band ondergaat een derde gedaanteverwisseling. Omdat de kosten om de band Lucifer in stand te houden te hoog worden, kiest Margriet voor een solocarrière en ontbindt ze de band. Met producer Tom Salisbury en enkele Amerikaanse studiomuzikanten neemt Margriet het album ‘On The Move Again’ op. Voor de plaat ontvangt de zangeres een Edison en de Pall Mal Exportprijs maar omdat het album geen hitsingle bevat, vallen de verkoopresultaten nogal tegen. Daarnaast profileert Margriet zich steeds meer als een rockzangeres en helaas wordt dit door haar publiek niet erg gewaardeerd. In 1981 wordt onder de naam Margriet Eshuijs Band de elpee ‘Right On Time’ uitgebracht, waarbij Margriet bijgestaan wordt door Peter Schön, Lex Bolderdijk, Jan Hollestelle en Ton op 't Hof. De ballad ‘Black Pearl’ wordt een hit. Deelname aan het Knokke Festival levert haar de Personality Prijs op. Ook de TROS Productieprijs valt haar ten deel. In 1982 ontvangt Margriet een Edison voor Beste Popalbum (‘Right On Time’) en Beste Popsingle (‘Black Pearl’). Een jaar later verschijnt het album ‘Eye To Eye’ met prima nummers als ‘Joe & Jerry’, ‘I’ll Be Waiting For You’ en ‘Go On Back To Barbados’. Op het album is vooral door toetsenist Peter Schön geschreven en geproduceerd materiaal te vinden. Als enkele leden van de Margriet Eshuijs Band gaan spelen in de band van de Dolly Dots vormt de zangeres een nieuwe band met voormalige leden van Solution (Willem Ennes en Harry Hardholt), Evert Woud en drummer Arno van Nieuwenhuizen (ex-Daniel Sahuleka). De jaren daarna stagneert de platenproductie, maar is de stem van Margriet regelmatig te horen in reclamespots. Ook treedt ze veel op. Daarnaast geeft ze les aan het Conservatorium in Alkmaar en presenteert ze de Teleac cursus ‘Rock School’. Met Maarten Peeters neemt Margriet in 1991 het album ‘ Sometimes’ op, dat haar een Gouden Harp oplevert. Na ‘Sometimes’ volgen nog albums als ‘The Wee Small Hours’, ‘Shadow Dancing’, ‘Step Into The Light’ en ‘Time’. Margriet Eshuijs ruste in vrede!

Met dank aan Leo Weijers.

THE FROST DUO COVERS ‘MY FUNNY VALENTINE’

The Frost Duo is comprised of vocalist LeahBeth Evans and multi-instrumentalist Christian Gratz. The group resides in the suburbs of Scranton Pennsylvania and perform all throughout central and northeast PA, NY,NJ and TN. The group has opened for artists such as Louis Prima Jr. and the witnesses and Jill Sobule, and this past year debuted with their EP "Play Nice" at #51 on the itunes jazz charts next to Tony Bennet and Lady Gaga's Cheek to Cheek album.

The group wanted to recreate a version of a favorite class "My Funny Valentine" and turn it into an upbeat, sexy and smooth sound.

CASTELLA FT. MARQUEAL JORDAN IN ‘I SAW YOU’

Castella starts 2023 with an original tune written by Castella with music produced by David P. Stevens.  Hearing something special in Castella’s voice and spirit, Stevens approached Castella with an amazing track which instantly resonated with the singer-songwriter. 

“It was just one of those tracks… you hear it and the melody comes instantly, a story develops and before you know it, we have a song!” said Castella. Inspired by Castella’s favorite subject, love – “I Saw You” is a tale of being down in life and finding friendship and love in a person with a pure heart and pure intentions. 

Adding to the tune is the talent of top 5 Billboard charting saxophonist Marqueal Jordan.  Marqueal’s tone and styling envelope this classic soulful song reminiscent of beloved artists like Oleta Adams, Dianne Reeves, Rachelle Farrell and certainly Debra and Ronnie Laws!   The blend of Castella and Marqueal with sparks of David’s guitar make for a very special record. 

“I Saw You” fills that void and gives the listener that instant “good -good feeling” with an unforgettable melody that will certainly have everyone singing the hook – “I Saw You”

"I Saw You" featuring Marqueal Jordan

Written By Castella (Cathy Thompson)

Produced and Mixed by David P. Stevens 

Mastered by Darryl Swann

Castella - Lead and Background Vocals

Marqueal Jordan - Saxophone 

David P. Stevens – Guitar & Keys 

Joel Tate – Drums  

Jethaniel Nixon – Bass  

BRANDON MARCEAL GOES ‘WAAY UP’

When Brandon Marceal plays the flute, he creates a connection to the soul. Not your typical symphonic flute, but jazz flute, improvised flute and flute that fuses jazz with hip-hop, or jazz with R&B. Marceal has been a flutist for more than 25 years.

After moving to Atlanta in 2001 and playing open-mic nights at coffee shops, his music began to take off. He started playing professionally working with director Bryan Barber (Idlewild 2006) and artists like Patti LaBelle and Andre 3000 of OutKast. He’s graced the stage with violinist Ken Ford, saxophonist Mike Phillips, and Stellar Award winner, Dorinda Clark-Cole to name a few. Rapper Nicki Minaj has even taken notice of Marceal's awesome improvisational/freestyle skillz, having named him winner of the "Best of the Bass" competition after singling him out of thousands of submitted videos. Recently, casting producers from NBC’s hit show “America’s Got Talent” reached out to Marceal after viewing YouTube videos of him on the web.

“People ‘feel’ my music. ... My peers or people who listen to popular music from Kanye West to Wynton Marsalis,” Marceal said. “I like to cover radio hits. Introducing my skill set with these more recognizable songs helps to draw in my listeners.”

When Brandon Marceal plays flute, he creates a connection to the soul. Reminiscent of flutist, Bobbi Humphrey, the tone heard with every fluttering breath is enchanting and mesmerizing. Whether playing a cover tune or an original composition, each song is infused with a spirit and passion all its own. This freelance flautist is a force to be reckoned with on his flute.

His business, Soul Rockin’ Ent., distributes promotional CDs, books shows and offers performance, ear theory and improvisation lessons.

DARREN RAHN’S NEW SINGLE ‘EVERLASTING’

Rahn’s tireless commitment to musical authenticity over the past 18 years has resulted in multiple Grammy nominations and 26 #1 Billboard singles as a solo artist/saxophonist, producer and mix engineer. The multi-talented, Canadian born, Denver based artist’s multi-faceted journey reaches yet another key milestone with the release of Rock The World, a hallmark album that taps perfectly into the Zeitgeist of these anxious times while revealing an ever-evolving artist at the pinnacle of his creative, melodic, spiritual and sonic expressions.

While many artists in his genre have created inspiring recordings during the pandemic era, none have so intuitively and artfully used instrumental music to reflect not only just how the world has been rocked, but offer a meaningful path forward on how we can rock back, get through the dark, daunting obstacles and move ahead with hope. True to the empowering and provocative album title, Rahn embraces the stark reality of the moment with optimism, forging and illuminating the road ahead by rocking the world with the gifts he, his core band (including bassist Mel Brown, drummer Tarell Martin and twin brother Jason Rahn on trumpet), guitarists Randy Jacobs, Allen Hinds, Adam Hawley and Paul Jackson, Jr., vocalist Biff Gore, his flutist wife Priscilla Rahn and dynamic all-star guests (Brian Bromberg, Dave Koz, Najee, Everette Harp, Brian Culbertson) have been blessed with. 

Rahn sees "Everlasting" as whimsical, uplifting and eminently danceable. “It’s not just about the light at the end of the tunnel, but the reality that God’s love is true love, and it endures forever,” he says. “It’s the ultimate dot dot dot, the promise of love everlasting.”

"Everlasting"

Written, Produced, and Mixed by Darren Rahn (Odipantz Music/ASCAP)

Mastered by Joe Yannece at Park Street Mastering

Darren Rahn - Tenor Saxophone, Synthesizers, Drum Programming

Adam Hawley - Guitars

VLAAMSE COMEDY-ICONEN URBANUS & JACQUES VERMEIRE VOOR HET EERST SAMEN OP DE PLANKEN

Het klinkt comedy-liefhebbers als muziek in de oren: Urbanus (73) & Jacques Vermeire (71), de twee peetvaders van de Vlaamse stand-up comedy, slaan de handen in elkaar en gaan voor het eerst ooit het podium delen. De exclusieve voorstelling vindt plaats op 25 & 26 januari in Vooruit Gent en kadert in de wereldreis die het duo ondernam voor een nieuw VTM-programma van producent Erik Goens.

De voorbije maanden trok het duo naar de uithoeken van de wereld om te zoeken of hun humor al dan niet universeel is. Waar Urbanus en Jacques Vermeire de afgelopen 50 jaar gans Vlaanderen aan het lachen bracht met shows van De Panne tot Maaseik gingen ze nu van onder meer New York naar Kathmandu, van Benidorm naar Kaapstad en van Kinshasa naar Lapland. Op 25 en 26 januari eindigt de wereldtournee, op één uniek podium én met een rugzak vol knotsgekke verhalen en anekdotes die ze graag delen met hun fans. Geheel in hun eigen gekende komische stijl.

Brengt Urbanus een hiphop uit de Bronx? Krijgen de typetjes van Jacques Vermeire internationale allures? Gaan Urbain en Jacky een meertalige comedy-battle aan? 

Maak het mee, once in a lifetime: Jacques Vermeire en Urbanus. Een afspraak met de Vlaamse comedy geschiedenis die je niet wil missen. 25 of 26 januari in de Vooruit in Gent.

Tickets kunnen vanaf nu gereserveerd worden via www.comedyshows.be.

De tv-reeks zal in 2023 op VTM worden uitgezonden.

BEKENDE PRODUCER, ARRANGEUR EN SONGWRITER THOM BELL OVERLEDEN

De in Jamaica geboren Amerikaanse platenproducent, arrangeur en songwriter Thom Bell is gisteren op 78-jarige leeftijd overleden. Thomas Randolph Bell werd wereldberoemd als een van de creatieve mensen achter het geluid van de zogenaamde Philadelphia Soul in de jaren zeventig. Bell was de grote man achter de successen van The Delfonics, The Stylistics en The Spinners. Bell volgde in zijn jeugd een opleiding als muzikant en verhuisde naar Philadelphia. Als tiener zong hij met Kenny Gamble, Leon Huff en Daryl Hall. Zijn eerste grote doorbraak in de wereld van de soulmuziek was voor Cameo Records in Philadelphia waar hij werkte als sessiemuzikant en arrangeur. In 1967 ontdekte hij de plaatselijke groep The Delfonics en produceerde twee van hun singles voor het sublabel Moonglow. Bell’s talenten als producer leverden The Delfonics hits op als ‘La-La (Means I Love You)’ en ‘Didn't I (Blow Your Mind This Time)’. Bell trad in 1970 toe tot het snel groeiende productiebedrijf van Kenny Gamble en Leon Huff in Philadelphia en werkte als arrangeur voor Jerry Butler, Archie Bell & The Drells, Jerry Bell, The O'Jays en Dusty Springfield. Hij arrangeerde voor The O’Jays de grote hit ‘Back Stabbers’ voor Gamble & Huff’s eigen platenlabel Philadelphia International Records. Bell vormde ook met Gamble een Huff een driemanschap in de muziekuitgeverij Mighty Three Music. In 1971 ontdekte hij een andere plaatselijke groep, The Stylistics. Hij produceerde platen voor deze groep voor Avco Records. In die tijd werkte hij veel samen met songwriter Linda Creed en Russell Thompkins, Jr., de leadzanger van The Stylistics. Bell en Creed schreven hits als ‘Stop, Look, Listen (To Your Heart)’, ‘You Are Everything’, ‘Betcha by Golly, Wow’, ‘Break Up to Make Up’, ‘You Make Me Feel Brand New’ en ‘I'm Stone in Love with You’ voor The Stylistics. In 1972 werd Bell producer van platen van The Spinners voor Atlantic Records. Die samenwerking duurde zeven jaar en resulteerde in vijf gouden albums en hits als ‘I'll Be Around’, ‘Could It Be I'm Falling in Love’, ‘Games People Play’ en ‘The Rubberband Man’. In 1974 werd Thom Bell gekozen tot beste producer van dat jaar. In de jaren daarna werkte hij intensief samen met artiesten en acts als Dionne Warwick, Johnny Mathis, Billy Paul, Ronnie Dyson, Anthony & The Imperials, New York City, Deniece Williams, James Ingram en Elton John. Thom Bell ruste in vrede!

Met dank aan Leo Weijers.

VLAANDEREN SMULT VAN ‘CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY’

Extra show op 5 januari 2023 om 14u. in Stadsschouwburg Antwerpen.

Vanaf 12 januari in Capitole Gent
Vanaf 26 januari in Trixxo Theater Hasselt

bekijk HIER de aftermovie van de première
incl. reacties van o.a Stijn Coninx, Kim Van Oncen, Sander Gillis en Evi Hanssen

Op 10 december 2022 ging dé familiemusical van deze eindejaarsperiode, de eerste Vlaamse versie van ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, in première in Stadsschouwburg Antwerpen. Naast o.a. een verbluffende (musicaldebutante) Astrid Stockman, die zich als Mrs. Teavea met sappig Gents accent zowaar zelfs ontpopt als comedyqueen van de voorstelling, een knisperende en ontwapenende Koen Van Impe als Bompa Jos,  een swingende 'Queen of Pop' Sali Haidari a.k.a. Violet Beauregarde en Nordin de Moor die een heerlijke Willy Wonka neerzet, is het ook echt wel vol bewondering kijken en luisteren naar wat de 3 jonge ‘Charlies’, Senn Dauwe (14 jaar), Mauro Degroote (12 jaar) en Viktor Kryeziu (9 jaar), afwisselend per voorstelling op het podium brengen.

De recensies en reacties van het publiek, dat met gulzige teugen smult van deze 'smakuleuze' familiemusical, liegen er dan ook niet om. De positieve echo's van de mond-tot-mond tamtam missen duidelijk hun effect niet, want alle matineevoorstellingen in de kerstvakantie zijn ondertussen volledig uitverkocht. Om aan de stijgende vraag naar Gouden Tickets te kunnen voldoen, kondigt producent Deep Bridge dan ook met trots een extra show van 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory' aan op donderdag 5 januari 2023 om 14u in Stadsschouwburg Antwerpen.  

‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory’ speelt nog tot en met 8 januari 2023 in Antwerpen en zal vanaf 12 januari ook te zien zijn in Capitole Gent (laatste tickets!!) en vanaf 26 januari in Trixxo Theater Hasselt. Op zondag 29 januari sluiten de poorten van Willy Wonka's wondere chocoladefabriek definitief, dus wees niet de Loempe Oempa die deze fantastische productie gemist heeft en bestel nu je tickets via: www.deepbridge.be !

ENGELSE MUZIKANT & LEADZANGER TERRY HALL (THE SPECIALS & FUN BOY THREE) OVERLEDEN

De Engelse muzikant en leadzanger Terry Hall is gisteren na een kortstondig ziekbed op slechts 63-jarige leeftijd overleden. De in Coventry opgegroeide Terence Edward Hall werd vooral bekend als leadzanger van The Specials en Fun Boy Three, maar maakte ook deel van The Colourfield, Terry, Blair & Anouchka en Vegas. Hij bracht twee soloalbums uit en werkte daarnaast samen met artiesten als David Stewart, Bananarama, The Lightning Seeds, Sinéad O'Connor, Stephen Duffy, Dub Pistols, Gorillaz, Damon Albarn, D12, Tricky, Lily Allen en Shakespears Sister. De band The Specials schrijft op sociale media dat "een van de briljantste zangers, songwriters en tekstschrijvers die Groot-Brittannië ooit heeft voortgebracht" na een kort ziekbed is gestorven. The Specials zijn de grondleggers van de Britse ska, een stroming die eind jaren zeventig en begin jaren tachtig enorm populair was. De groep rond Hall was daarmee een inspiratie voor meerdere bekende Britse skabands uit die tijd zoals Madness, The Selecter en The Beat. In 1979 braken The Specials door met de single ‘Gangsters’, ook in Nederland. Daarna werden hits gescoord met de cover ‘A Message to You Rudy’ (1979) en ‘Ghost Town’ (1981). Dat laatste nummer werd gezien als de soundtrack voor de rellen die dat jaar in tientallen steden uitbraken vanwege raciale spanningen, Hall kwam kort na de formatie bij de groep en was in de hoogtijdagen voorman. In 1981 verliet hij samen met zanger Neville Staple en slaggitarist Lynval Golding de band na een conflict. De drie richtten de groep Fun Boy Three op en scoorden een wereldhit met de single ‘It Ain’t What You Do (It’s The Way That You Do It)’. Jarenlang wilde Hall niets weten van een reünie, maar in 2007 begon het toch te kriebelen en ging hij samen met Golding weer nummers van The Specials spelen op festivals. Later werd een echte reünie aangekondigd, al stond de band nooit meer in de originele bezetting op het podium. The Specials kwamen ook regelmatig optreden in Nederland en speelden in juni dit jaar nog twee concerten in Utrecht en Amsterdam. Hall zei ooit dat het succes van The Specials een toevallig bijproduct was van de punkbeweging. "Toen ik The Sex Pistols en The Clash zag, leek het me allemaal niet al te moeilijk", zei hij vorig jaar. "Het zag er niet naar uit dat ze zulke goede muzikanten waren, dus we moesten eigenlijk gewoon een band formeren en alles daarna verder uitwerken." "We wisten zelfs niet wie welke rol zou krijgen binnen de band. We gaven de instrumenten aan elkaar door totdat iedereen tevreden was. Ik voelde me met geen enkel instrument op mijn gemak, dus ik werd de zanger." In de verklaring van de band wordt Hall een geweldige echtgenoot en vader genoemd. "Hij was aardig, grappig en oprecht. Zijn muziek en optredens bevatten de essentie van het leven: vreugde, pijn, humor, de strijd voor rechtvaardigheid, maar vooral liefde. Hij zal enorm gemist worden." Terry Hall ruste in vrede!

Met dank aan Leo Weijers.

NYTE SKYE - 'VANISHING' – NEW WAVE & DREAM POP DEBUT ALBUM BY US FATHER & SON DUO

NYTE SKYE photography by Seth Affoumado

NYTE SKYE
VANISHING

debut album
out 10.01.23
[Sonic Ritual]

pre-order/save

includes the new single
TAKE ME UP AGAIN
out now
digital services

"I wrote this when things were quite bleak and everyone was isolating. It felt like all we had was our family and we needed to keep each other going," states Nyles Lannon of Nyte Skye when discussing ‘Take Me Up Again’, the second single to be lifted from a forthcoming debut album of new wave/dream pop influenced songs by the San Francisco-based outfit built around vocalist/guitarist Nyles (also of celebrated shoegazers Film School) and his teenage son Skye on drums (who was only 12 when recording the album).

The bouncy 'Take Me Up Again’ follows its moody, synth driven predecessor ‘Dream State’ (Iisten HERE) which harboured similar feelings about the strange effects brought about by the pandemic. "I wanted it to operate like a time capsule of sorts,” explains Nyles. “How strange it was to go on a road trip when everyone we encountered was distant, masked and a little fearful. I knew this time would eventually pass and how strange it would all seem in the rear-view mirror. As life gets back to our new normal, I actually find myself missing those times together.”

Of ‘Vanishing’ as a whole, Nyles says that “the songs on the album capture the little ways Skye and I were coping with those early days of the pandemic; some reflective and poignant, some escapist, some playful. Music was our bond and in some ways our guiding light. It gave us a focused goal while we processed what was happening in our little world."

Formed from both the frustration of quarantine and the boundless creativity that arose from having nowhere to go and nothing else to do has resulted in songs such as ‘Doing Time’ (a meditation on holding onto a child’s sanguine outlook in the face of adversity) and ‘Faded’ (in which a bittersweet melody and gentle rhythm bely themes of physical and emotional frailty).

The emotional toll of lockdown, collective grief, plus the literal darkness that engulfed the sky thanks to the devastating wildfires that ravaged the landscape close to the Lannon’s home are heavy subject matter, but the resulting songs convey how they managed to keep each other sane - and inspired - through it all. Expanding on Nyles' previous work, they also incorporate elements of other bands that the duo both love, including Spiritualized, Elliott Smith and The Police (one of Skye’s main influences is Stewart Copeland). “I am so grateful for this connection we have,” beams Nyles. "Sometimes I have to remind myself that Skye is still a kid and hasn’t been in bands for thirty years like me. Yet, when he plays, he is just a damn good drummer.”

Ultimately, Nyte Skye has helped the duo cope with a uniquely challenging situation, while being stuck at home stoked their creativity. “Music was the only thing I did during the pandemic, besides online school,” says Skye. “It gave us all this time we didn't have before to make the album.” For Nyles, to be able to put out a record with his son is simply “a dream come true.”

ABOUT NYTE SKYE
Nyte Skye is Nyles Lannon (vocals, guitars) and Skye Lannon (drums), with additional contributions from Zach Rogue (Rogue Wave), Nichole Kreglow (backing vocals), lyricist Neil Rodenmeyer (Lupa Rosa) and Ian McDonald (FUTRVST). A
composer for commercials, Nyles has released several solo records that have earned accolades such as Album of the Year in the San Francisco Bay Guardian and Best Folktronica Artist in SF Weekly. He is also a member of shoegaze band Film School. Skye Lannon has been a drummer since the age of 6 after learning a basic beat from his dad. Within a few days, he was hooked and lost interest in all his other hobbies. He finished Year 9 in June 2022 (8th grade in the US).

nyte-skye.com

NEW TRACK ‘DEEPER LOVE’ FROM ALEX FANJUL FT. TONI BOURGON

Deeper Love is the most recent song composed, produced by Alex Fanjul.
A thumping beat, an inspiring bass line, a really powerful and warm voice, and a really nice sax solo.
On this occasion the participating musicians have been, the bass line has been created and played by Baltasar Bassbarcelona, the voices are by Sanna Hartfield, and the saxophone by my dear friend (who recently passed away) Toni Bourgon, and finally myself playing the guitars and the keyboards.

STEVE VAI PRESENTEERT NIEUWE TRACK ‘BUSTED’

CD en Digitaal uit op 27 januari 2023
LP uit op 24 februari 2023
Via Favored Nations / Mascot Label Group
 
Pre-Order/Stream Hier: https://lnk.to/VaiGash

Steve Vai en Favored Nations/ Mascot Label Group brengen VAI / GASH uit op CD en digitaal op 27 januari 2023. Vinyl volgt op 24 februari. Vandaag presenteert Vai “Busted”, dat hier kan worden beluisterd: https://youtu.be/O2U5pSbFSIg.  Vai vertelt, “This song, “Busted” is basically about the incessant and nefarious activities of a corrupt and skanky mistress against her biker boyfriend. But she got ‘Busted’. The entire track was recorded in one day and Gash slammed the vocal out in 2 takes.” De eerste track die werd gepresenteerd, "In The Wind", is wereldwijd zeer positief ontvangen en kan hier worden beluisterd: https://youtu.be/AkbnEj2yDw0 . Op het moment van onthulling deelde Vai, “’In The Wind’ was the first track that was recorded for this record. It captures the spirit of the open road freedom we felt while riding our Harley’s on bike rallies and interstate road trips. The track has the exhilaration of having that kind of power under you while kissing the wind.” In drie weken tijd is de track over een kwart miljoen streams, waarvan de video 130.000 keer is bekeken op YouTube video.

Vai deelt, “This record was written and recorded in somewhat of a stream of consciousness in 1991 within perhaps a 2-week period as an answer to my desire to have a particular kind of music to listen to when I was riding my Harley Davison Motorcycle with my friends. It’s reminiscent of a certain type of rock music I enjoyed as a teenager in the 1970’s. These recordings sat on the shelf for over 30 years and are being released now in 2023. Here’s the story…”
 
Een verkorte samenvatting van de anekdotische geschiedenis en dierbare herinneringen zoals verwoord door Vai in de liner notes, bieden details over zanger Gash en zijn diepe band met Vai. Vanaf zijn tienerjaren op Long Island tot vandaag heeft hij openlijk zijn liefde voor motorfietsen gedeeld. Gash deelde die passie.
 
Vai blikt terug, “Around 1990, I was overcome with a desire to rip out what I thought would be a straight-ahead type of rock record that contained the kind of music I wish I had to listen to when I was that teenager ensconced in the biker culture. And then I met Johnny “Gash” Sombrotto.”
 
John werd geboren in Queens, New York en was in zijn jeugd een fervent motorliefhebber. In 1977 kreeg hij op 21-jarige leeftijd een ernstig ongeluk waarbij zijn lichaam vlam vatte en hij vanaf 10 meter in een hek van prikkeldraad stortte. Vai schreef in de liner notes, “The doctors told his family that he had third degree burns over 60% of his body, and that if he even survived, there was a strong possibility that he would lose his right arm and left leg. While in the Burn Unit, he endured excruciating pain, especially when given the intense daily cycle of hot baths for his burns. He soldiered on, and after a month he was finally discharged from the hospital. Luckily, no limbs were amputated. He was, however, left with a partial left ear and layers of skin grafts over his neck, arms, legs, and entire chest. The stories he told about his recovery and the excruciating pain involved were crushingly gut wrenching. But he survived, and eventually thrived again. He made his way out to Los Angeles in 1982 and got right back up on his motorcycle.”
 
Vai ontmoette John via een wederzijdse vriend, Mark Cimino. Ze hadden een band met de motorcultuur en hij koos de naam "Gash" als bijnaam. Vai schreef, “…I’ve observed many people interacting with him on our numerous motorcycle road trips and other adventures. At first sight, many people could be taken by his bald head, scarred neck and burnt-off ear. Looking as he did and riding a Harley it was easy to assume he was perhaps a tough, menacing biker with a nefarious attitude, but after engaging with him for even a minute, his charm and magnetic charisma had them laughing in their shoes and completely enjoying his uplifting presence. He endeared people with his wit, warmth, and sparkle. John hit it off instantly with the most unlikely of people of every age, color, size, political or sexual persuasions. He was non superficial and never judged people. This allowed his engaging personality and intoxicating charm to draw you in. Under all those scars was a bold and fearlessly warm heart that can be seen in his disarming and big soft blue eyes.”
 
Hij vervolgt, “…something in me wanted to get him in the studio and see how he would belt over these biker type songs I had demoed, but nothing could have prepared me for the voice that came out of his mouth. I had to think, off course he sounds like that because that’s him, confident, authentic, fearless but with a lighthearted intention. This was the voice I wanted to hear wailing over these slamming rock tracks. I was stunned. Around that timeframe I was also starting to launch work on ‘Sex and Religion’ and was hoping to eventually record more than the 8 songs I had laid down with John for an alternative project, but that was proven impossible. On September 7th, 1998, two days after my father had passed away, the phone rang, and it was John’s beloved girlfriend Nancy. Her voice was quaking, and I somehow knew what she was going to tell me. ‘John was in a bike accident and was killed’.”
 
Na drie decennia heeft Steve Vai eindelijk de stem van Gash gedeeld met de wereld. Naar zijn mening, “He would have absolutely been the greatest rock lead singer you would ever want to know. All the elements were in place, but he was gone. Disheartened, I put the entire project on the shelf, and would listen to it at least once a year for the past 30 years, especially around the anniversary of his passing. Then recently something compelled me to want to put it out now.  I wish you would have had a chance to get to know John. I believe you would have loved him just as we all did. For now, he is ‘In the Wind’.”

Tracklist

In The Wind

Busted

Let’s Jam

Woman Fever

She Saved My Life Tonight

Danger Zone

New Generation

Flowers Of Life

Available Formats:
Black 180gr LP
Blue Marble LP (webshop exclusive)
CD
Digital

Steve Vai Online:
https://www.vai.com/  
facebook.com/stevevai  
instagram.com/stevevaihimself 
twitter.com/stevevai 
youtube.com/user/SteveVaiHimself 

KELELA DEBUTS VIDEO FOR LATEST SINGLE ‘ON THE RUN’

NEW ALBUM RAVEN
DUE FEBRUARY 10 ON WARP

Kelela shares a brand new video for her latest offering “On the Run". Kelela’s long-awaited sequel to her debut album is slated for release February 10th, 2023. The album is preceded by singles “Washed Away,” “Happy Ending” and “On The Run”.

Since its release on November 15th, “On the Run” has been regaled for its “quiet brilliance” and “new flavor.” Collaborating with director Lee Wei Swee for the visual, the song’s sultry sonics are brought to life in a joyride video with her co-star and one of the song’s producers, Bambii.

Skillfully straddling the frequencies of R&B and dance/club music, American singer, songwriter and producer Kelela has established herself as an artistic interpolator of music, art and fashion. In 2017, Kelela’s debut album, Take Me Apart, accelerated her inevitable rise to mainstream acclaim in both pop and underground culture. In the years prior, Cut 4 Me (2013) and Hallucinogen (2015) – among her other remix projects and features – cemented her artistry as a leading force in the alternative, underground R&B world. With a personal style as visually kaleidoscopic as her genre-wielding music, Kelela has established herself as a vanguard of sonic and aesthetic innovation. Thoughtfully intermixing elegance, futurism, divinity and sensuality, Kelela’s unique perspective has carved a lane that demonstrates style as both a component of art, and art in and of itself.

Recent Praise for Kelela’s “On the Run”

“…Kelela’s ‘On the Run’ gives a new flavor of her hyper-manicured sound. Maintaining the ethereal quality of her past few releases, the new single sees Kelela embracing a darker, brooding sound…” - Billboard First Out 
 
“…a gorgeously wobbly piece of house-R&B, like a classic disco track given too many bumps of ketamine. It’s spare, luxuriant and far-reaching, anchored by Kelela’s iconic voice.” - PAPER
 
“…’On The Run’ seems to be her best yet. It’s so deeply soulful, quietly brilliant in its genius.” - V Magazine

“Allow another new, languid  Kelela song to give you mental deliverance.” – NYLON

Alongside the video Kelela announces her RAVE:N tour beginning March 16, 2023 in support of her highly anticipated sophomore album. Tickets are available for pre-sale at kelela.co and general on-sale will begin tomorrow, Friday, December 9th at 10 am local time. 

Kelela’s RAVE:N Tour 2023
Mar 16 - Atlanta, GA - Terminal West
Mar 17 - New York, NY - Webster Hall
Mar 18 - Chicago, IL - Thalia Hall
Mar 23 - Washington, DC - 9:30 Club
Mar 24 - Toronto, ON - The Opera House
Apr 01 - Los Angeles, CA - The Fonda
April 07 - London, UK - Outernet

NOT A ‘MIRAGE’ – JAZZ SINGER-SONGWRITER SAMANTHA FIERKE IS AN ARTIST TO WATCH

The compelling and complex debut album about self-discovery is winning deserved attention.

BOSTON (8 December 2022): Most twenty-year-old college students are exploring their identity and Samantha Fierke is doing their searching, questioning and experimenting via song. Despite their youth, the jazz singer-songwriter recently released their debut album, “Mirage,” which is a mature, transcendent and intriguing collection of captivating confessionals, emotional explorations, and intimate journal entries documenting the last couple years of their experience spanning an autism diagnosis, finding their place in the world through a queer identity, and leaving the safety of their Columbia, Missouri home post-pandemic to begin studies in Boston at Berklee College of Music.

Since the album’s street date, Fierke’s self-released jazz vocal album produced by drummer Loyd Warden is steadily collecting accolades from reviewers, radio spins and more than 20,000 Spotify plays. In conjunction with the album’s arrival, Fierke played shows in both Boston and Columbia, confidently sharing their songs from “Mirage” at club gigs.

Live performance videos for album tracks “Color Me” (https://youtu.be/IzGT1DfTWW4) and “I Remember Butterflies” (https://youtu.be/posW0CjsKRE) hit YouTube, inviting listeners to delve into the engaging talent’s songbook. On “Color Me,” which previewed the album when issued as a single last summer, a heartbroken Fierke sings about their autism diagnosis made last year, one that brought liberation and confirmation as well as pain and confusion stemming from an abusive relationship. On the surface, “I Remember Butterflies” recalls halcyon times yet it’s more of a song that mourns lost innocence.            

Fierke’s “Mirage” conveys hope and despair amidst the chaos and turmoil of recent times – from the pandemic, political tensions, civil unrest and economic uncertainty. Backed by a trio comprised of Warden (drums and percussion), bassist Mickey Jamieson and keyboardist Samuel Luetkemeyer, Fierke’s vocal prowess is astute, sophisticated and poised while authentic, expressive and heartfelt. Whether singing their stories on tracks that form a mélange of jazz, fusion, global folk, funk and adult pop, or scatting amidst swinging rhythms and grooves, Fierke’s project provides a jolt of youthful creativity, ambition and adventure into vocal jazz, introducing a new voice to watch.

Fierke & Company spent a couple of years working on “Mirage.” During the writing and recording process, Grammy nominated jazz vocalists Gretchen Parlato, Jane Monheit and Oleta Adams as well as Grammy winner Taylor Eigsti served as Fierke’s mentors and role models. After hearing the finished album, another Grammy winner, Brother Paul Brown (The Waterboys), submitted “Mirage” for Grammy consideration in five categories.

Below is a sampling of what the press has said about “Mirage”:

“An invigorating and lovely listening experience…Sam takes you on a rich journey…This multi-layered vocalist swings, sways and swaggers…‘Mirage’ is a promising first full album from a fine new young artist to watch.” – Audiophile Review 

“Elegantly-crafted, just stunningly-orchestrated, vibrant new jazz album.” – Exclusive Magazine

“‘Mirage’ is a concise 8 tracker and the songs  deal with all sorts of issues…the singer, though a relative newcomer, shows her mastery of the art of scat vocals…‘Mirage’ can be seen as (a) journey (of) self-discovery – a journey that ultimately ends with a mature jazz album which has already received Grammy consideration in 5 categories.” – Soul & Jazz & Funk

“Closing out our playlist, jazz singer/songwriter Samantha Fierke and the opening track from her new album, Mirage; an astutely rhythmic tribute to Chick Corea titled ‘Kick It Loose.’” - Jazziz

For more information, please visit https://samdoesjazz.com. 

NIEUWE SINGLE VAN SOFIE – THIS CHRISTMAS

De Belgische zangeres Sofie (Verbruggen) wijdt al zo goed als haar volledige leven aan haar grote passie, muziek. Vandaag breng ze met trots haar nieuwe single 'This Christmas' uit. De single gaat over de gezellige en traditionele kerstsfeer en is  een cover van Donny Hathaway.

"De kerstperiode is voor mij al jaren één van de hoogtepunten van het jaar, voornamelijk dankzij de uitverkochte kerstconcerten in de Sint-Carolus Borromeuskerk in Antwerpen. Die gaan dit jaar door op 14 en 15 december en zijn ook nu weer  volledig uitverkocht. De single zal daar voor het eerst live te horen zijn. Ik ben echt heel erg benieuwd naar de reacties!", zegt de fiere Sofie.

Sofie werd geboren in een Antwerpse, muzikale familie met grootmoeder en operazangeres Mina Bollotine dicht aan haar zijde. Op 17-jarige leeftijd werd Sofie ontdekt in de wedstrijd 'Ontdek de ster' die werd uitgezonden op de toenmalige BRT. Nadien was ze te horen bij discoformatie 'Trinity', tot de groep in 1978 uit elkaar ging. Een eerste grote solosucces kwam er in 1982 met 'I Love You'. In België werd de single een bescheiden hit, maar in Azië haalde de song later miljoenen views op YouTube.

"Mijn volledige familie is muzikaal aangelegd, dus ik krijg heel veel steun van ieder van hen. Ik ben nooit een hitwonder geweest, maar ik ben mijn liefde voor muziek altijd blijven volgen, ben ook altijd blijven optreden en doe dat nog steeds met evenveel passie als tijdens mijn eerste optreden. Het winnen van zo'n TV-show als 'Ontdek de ster' opent natuurlijk heel wat deuren. Het mooiste moment was toen ik in 1981 België mocht vertegenwoordigen op het Koreaans songfestival en daar de prijs voor beste uitvoering won met het nummer 'He Loves Me'. Toen ik in 1983 met het liedje 'Nummer één' nipt de voorselecties verloor tegen de cultgroep Pas de Deux, deden de reacties van het publiek erg veel deugd. Ze vonden mijn tweede plaats onterecht", zegt Sofie.

De muzikale richting waar Sofie zich steeds in begeeft is naar eigen zeggen vrij niche: "Ik weet dat ik niet de meest toegankelijke, commerciële muziek maak die radio's makkelijk kunnen programmeren, maar elke vogel zingt zoals ie gebekt is". Dat hield Sofie echter nooit tegen een mooie carrière uit te bouwen, want zo werkte ze op haar albums o.a. samen met muzikale grootmeesters als Toots Thielemans, Bobby Wommack en Paul Carrack. 

'This Christmas', de nieuwe single van Sofie, kan u beluisteren op alle grote streamingplatformen.

SALVATORE ADAMO VIERT '60 JAAR CARRIERE' IN ANTWERPEN EN GENT

27 mei 2023 - Koningin Elisabethzaal Antwerpen
12 november 2023 - Capitole Gent

Salvatore Adamo, de best verkopende Belgische artiest aller tijden, viert in 2023 niet alleen zijn 80ste verjaardag, maar ook zijn indrukwekkende 60-jarige carrière. Naar aanleiding van dit bijzondere dubbele jubileum, trakteert deze levende legende zijn trouwe fans op zaterdag 27 mei 2023 in de Koningin Elisabethzaal in Antwerpen en op zondag 12 november 2023 in Capitole Gent, op concertavonden om nooit te vergeten. 

Op het podium laat de Belgisch-Italiaanse wereldster zich omringen door zijn eigen geweldige liveband. Naast recenter werk, mogen Adamo-klassiekers als 'Tombe la neige', 'Sans toi ma mie' (waar het in 1963 allemaal mee begon), 'Vous permettez, monsieur', 'Les Filles du Bord de Mer', 'Insch'Allah' en 'Dolce Paola' natuurlijk niet ontbreken.

Mis deze memorabele, dubbele jubileumconcerten van Salvatore Adamo op 27 mei 2023 in de Koningin Elisabethzaal en op 12 november 2023 in Capitole Gent niet, en bestel nu je tickets via www.ticketkopen.eu.

CELEBRATE A COOL YULE WITH LOUIS ARMSTRONG HOLIDAY GIFTS AND HIS FIRST-EVER CHRISTMAS ALBUM

Celebrate the Holiday Season with Louis Armstrong Holiday Gifts and the Release of Louis Wishes You Cool Yule, His First-ever Christmas Recording, which debuted in the Top 10 Across Billboard Charts

The Recording Features a Previously Unreleased Armstrong Reading of The Night Before Christmas with New Orleans Pianist Sullivan Fortner

NEW YORK, NY – When the world-renowned jazz icon Louis Armstrong (1901-1971) was on tour, he would always put up a small Christmas tree in the hotel he and his wife Lucille were staying. When they were home for the holidays, they would lavishly display their Corona Queens home with decorations, sing carols, recite The Night Before Christmas, and Armstrong sent friends his homemade holiday cards, made in his genius, down home style.

Now, Armstrong’s holiday cheer is available to everyone with several Armstrong-themed gift items from The Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation, Inc. (LAEF), a 501(c)3 non-profit organization founded in 1969 to perpetuate the legacies of Louis and Lucille Armstrong throughout the world by supporting musicians, jazz education, performances and programming.

You can put Satchmo on your tree with the purchase of four custom-curated glass ornaments in blue, green, red and white; they are 3.25” in diameter, featuring 2” printed text, “What a Wonderful World” on the front, and the iconic Armstrong trademark on the back for $29.98.

Other gift items include a selection of Armstrong apparel, featuring white and navy blue short and long sleeve t-shirts, ranging from $30 to $60, a $30.00 fleece, zip up hoodie, white mugs for $15.00 and a $30.00, tote bag. All items feature an image of Armstrong with a trumpet, in Santa clothes with the words, “Louis Wishes You a Cool Yule.”

That phrase, Louis Wishes You A Cool Yule, is also the title of a new compilation of Armstrong’s timeless holiday-associated selections, mostly from Decca Records in the 1950’s. This compendium showcases Armstrong’s towering trumpet and gravelly voice on 11 selections with orchestral and big band arrangements. More than 50 years after his passing, the legendary entertainer  is back on the charts with the release of his first-ever Christmas album, Louis Wishes You A Cool Yule (Verve/UMe). The collection debuted in the Top 10 across multiple Billboard charts (dated Nov. 26), including Top Holiday Albums where it bowed at No. 9 and launches in the top 10 on Jazz Albums (No. 4), Traditional Jazz Albums (No. 4), Top Album Sales (No. 7), Top Current Album Sales (No. 6) and Vinyl Albums (No. 7). It debuted at No. 122 on the Billboard 200, becoming Armstrong’s highest charting album since Hello Dolly spent six weeks at No. 1 in 1964.

Armstrong and the studio group, known as The Commanders, swing on the Gordon Jenkins-arranged, “Cool Yule,” with lyrics by comedian Steve Allen, “Winter Wonderland,” “’Zat You Santa Claus?” and Irving Berlin’s evergreen ballad “White Christmas.” Another arranger, the legendary Benny Carter, provides a moving, musical magic carpet for Armstrong’s artistry on “Christmas in New Orleans,” “Christmas Night in Harlem,” and the ballad “Moments to Remember.” 

Armstrong sings some zesty duets with Ella Fitzgerald on “I’ve Got My Love to Keep You Warm,” and Velma Middleton on “Baby, It’s Cold Outside.” Although Armstrong’s signature song, “What a Wonderful World” is not technically a holiday song, it has been adopted as one by Armstrong fans worldwide.

The most special selection on this recording is a never-before released reading by Armstrong of Samuel Clement Moore’s poem, “A Visit from St. Nicholas," AKA "The Night Before Christmas." The track is Armstrong’s last recording before he died, and through the magic of technology, New Orleans pianist Sullivan Fortner accompanies Armstrong with his brilliant and ebullient piano flourishes.

The recording is available in CD, Red Vinyl, Picture Disc and Digital formats, from $9.98 to $29.98. The album also features new liner notes from GRAMMY®-Award winning historian, Ricky Riccardi, author of two Armstrong biographies Heart Full of Rhythm and What a Wonderful World, and Director of Research Collections for the Louis Armstrong House Museum.

Fans can also order a specially-priced bundle, consisting of a Navy Blue T-shirt, the What a Wonderful World Ornaments and the Red Vinyl version of Louis Wishes You A Cool Yule for $80. Also featured is a special video of Armstrong and Fitzgerald’s “I’ve Got My Love to Keep You Warm,” produced by director and animator, JonJon.

Louis Armstrong said that he was here, “in the cause of happiness,” and these yuletide offerings are excellent extensions of his noble mission.

Founded by Louis and Lucille Armstrong in 1969, the Louis Armstrong Educational Foundation funds organizations supporting jazz musicians, educators, and students. In the last 10 years alone, the organization has given over $8 million to these various groups. Those wishing to join LAEF in this effort in a more substantive way as a collaborator should email director@louisarmstrongfoundation.org.

About Louis Armstrong

Louis Armstrong, iconic trumpeter and singer, is the foundation of jazz and of American musical virtuosity in the 20th Century. His earliest recordings taught musicians how to improvise and sing jazz, blues, the American Popular Song and all styles of American vernacular music. His discoveries gave listeners around the world a new way to experience music, and his way of “being natural” in public created another understanding of what it meant to be human. Pops, his nickname which was also the name he called everyone, was a man of the people and all walks of life were given a seat of welcome at his and Lucille’s table. In addition to his legendary artistry, he established this foundation to ensure that future generations would be taught to play and appreciate the art of jazz. From 1943 to the end of his life, Mr. Armstrong was a resident of Corona, Queens, where he enjoyed traveling across the New York boroughs performing and listening to music. 

To donate to LAEF or for more information, visit louisarmstrongfoundation.org. 

BArTc – ‘GHOSTS’ – LONDON BASED DARK ELECTRONIC ARTIST ISSUES MINI-ALBUM COMPANION PIECE TO 2021 DEBUT RELEASE

BArTc photography by Michaela Olexova

BArTc
GHOSTS 

mini album
digital release
out 02.12.22 
(ICR)

available from
bandcamp

A year on from the release of his debut album, ‘Insubstantial As Ghosts’, the London based experimental electronic artist BArTc has today issued a seven track companion piece entitled ‘Ghosts’.

‘Ghosts’ features two reworked tracks from that debut (‘Energy Field’ [long] and ‘Malleus Incuss Tapes’ [inner ear mix]), plus five further pieces recorded around the same period.

‘Ghosts’ continues to explore the electronic realm, with layers of analogue synth, dark ambient drones and experimental work combined with field recordings resulting in a series of highly atmospheric soundscapes.  

Mastered by ICR owner and Nurse With Wound member Colin Potter, ‘Ghosts’ is available digitally via bandcamp and in a very limited Bartefact edition with handmade and numbered artwork.

GHOSTS
TRACKLISTING
1  Energy Field [long]
2  Wind
3  Ganymede
4  Frozen Minarets [ii]
5  Papillae Circumvallate
6  Malleus Incuss Tapes [inner ear mix]
7  Let An Angel Pass

BArTc is London based experimental electronic audio visual artist Jason Barton, with his nom de plume comprising the symbols for three chemical elements - Boron (B), Argon (Ar) and Technetium (Tc) - while also giving nods to both Hungarian composer Béla Bartók and his own surname.

Initially inspired by instrumental electronic records in his father’s record collection by titans such as Tangerine Dream, Vangelis and Jean-Michel Jarre, Barton gravitated towards underground ‘industrial’ icons such as Coil, Einstürzende Neubauten, Chris & Cosey and Skinny Puppy while in his teens, before digging deeper into the work of early German electronicists such as Cluster, Musique concrète pioneers Pierre Schaeffer and Pierre Henry, plus the BBC Radiophonic Workshop. He cites sound recordist (and Cabaret Voltaire co-founder) Chris Watson as a key influence.

Having collected synthesisers and made music (both alone and with friends) for several years, Barton subsequently started the project Less Than One to create accompanying videos that he began posting on Instagram. Initially solely for his own work, he soon earned plaudits from a worldwide community of electronic artists that in turn has led to commissions from the likes of Daniel Avery and Alessandro Cortini.

His debut album, ‘Insubstantial As Ghosts’, plus much of his brand new companion piece ‘Ghosts' were recorded in early 2021 while the UK was in lockdown. ICR label owner Colin Potter, himself a well known figure in the experimental genre as a member of Nurse With Wound and sound engineer, heard some of Barton’s work and offered to release it, handpicking several of the tracks that subsequently appeared on the debut and mastering both that album and ‘Ghosts’

ohm2223.com
bartc.bandcamp.com
icrdistribution.com

DAVID MARGAM’S NEW SINGLE ‘ROAD TO WESTCOAST’

David Margam wants to end the year as it began by working hard to continue sharing new songs with his followers.
If there is a perfect Smooth Jazz song, it would be this one: for its structure, arrangements, production and elegance.
A Spanish Co-production at the height of the best productions of this genre. "Road to West Coast" is an elegant composition co-produced with the talented Spanish producer and musician Nacho Valenciaga and with the invaluable collaboration of Miami saxophonist Jorge Pinelo, one of today's best Latin saxophonists without forgetting the collaboration of the singer from Spanish Jazz María Romero who brings truly magical backing vocals to this elegant production. "Road to West Coast" represents the opportunity to be better every day and to evolve until you achieve freedom on a path of joy and torment that will take you through beautiful soundscapes influenced by the "West Coast" sound until you reach such a long-awaited destination.

Title: Road to West Coast
Co-written and co-produced: Nacho Valenciaga & David Margam
Mixed and Mastered: Nacho Valenciaga & David Margam
Programming and Bass: Nacho Valenciaga
Guitar: David Margam
Soprano Saxophone: Jorge Pinelo
Backing vocals: Maria Romero
Record Label: Dr.Funk Producciones
Communication Agency: Smooth Jazz Universe
Recorded between Granada, Valladolid (Spain) and Miami (Florida) US

https://drfunkproducciones.com/david-margam/

https://nachovalenciaga.com/

SINGER-SONGWRITER CHRISTINE MCVIE (FLEETWOOD MAC) OVERLEDEN

Veel triester kan een dag wat mij betreft niet beginnen, want Fleetwood Mac-zangeres en songwriter Christine McVie is gisteren op 79-jarige leeftijd overleden. Dat meldt de band op Twitter. De Britse artieste was het brein achter bekende nummers als ‘You Make Loving Fun’, ‘Little Lies’, ‘Everywhere’ en ‘Songbird’. Christine McVie, die geboren werd als Christine Anne Perfect, is in het bijzijn van haar familie in het ziekenhuis "rustig" overleden. McVies familieleden spreken van een "muzikante die universeel werd geliefd" en hopen dat fans haar zich zo zullen herinneren. "Een paar uur geleden heb ik gehoord dat mijn beste vriend in de hele wereld is overleden", schreef 'Fleetwood-collega' Stevie Nicks gisterenavond op Instagram. In een handgeschreven briefje laat ze weten dat ze zaterdagavond laat pas hoorde dat McVie ziek was en daarop niet direct naar Londen kon. "Ik dacht dat ik misschien nog voor haar kon zingen." In de band vervulde McVie meerdere rollen. Zo componeerde ze diverse nummers en was ze toetsenist. Samen met Nicks nam zij de vocalen grotendeels voor haar rekening. McVie was lange tijd getrouwd met bassist van de band, John McVie. In 1971 voegde Christine zich na een tijdje actief te zijn geweest bij Chicken Shack (‘I’d Rather Go Blind’) bij Fleetwood Mac, dat toen al enkele jaren bestond. Drie jaar later kwamen ook Lindsey Buckingham en Stevie Nicks bij de band. In die samenstelling behaalde de groep in de jaren zeventig de grootste successen. Het in 1977 uitgebrachte album ‘Rumours’ werd direct een hit: van het album werden in de eerste maand miljoenen exemplaren verkocht. Inspiratie voor het album vonden vier bandleden, onder wie Christine McVie, in hun onderlinge relatiebreuken. Naast Christine en John McVie vormden ook Lindsey Buckingham en Stevie Nicks een stel. Bij recensenten oogstten vooral de harmonieën van Nicks en McVie - soms samen met Buckingham - lof. Nog altijd is ‘Rumours’ wereldwijd een van de bestverkochte albums ooit. In 1998 stapte McVie uit de band door persoonlijke omstandigheden en om aan haar solocarrière te kunnen werken. In 2013 haakte ze eenmalig aan bij de band voor een optreden in Londen. "Het was geweldig, alsof ik nooit weg was geweest. Ik beklom het podium en daar waren ze weer, dezelfde bekende gezichten", aldus McVie tegen de Britse pers. Daarop voegde zij zich weer permanent bij de band. De laatste tournee was in 2019, McVie en Nicks deden beiden mee. De band deed onder meer Pinkpop in het Limburgse Landgraaf aan. "We hebben het geluk gehad een leven met haar te mogen delen", liet de groep in een online verklaring gisterenavond weten. Een groot muzikante is heengegaan. Zij ruste in vrede!

Met dank aan Leo Weijers.

MET ‘VAN GOED NAAR BETER’ EN HET SUCCESVOLLE VERZAMELALBUM ‘NU OF NOOIT’ NEMEN NICK & SIMON AFSCHEID VAN VLAANDEREN!

Met de heerlijke nieuwe single ‘Van Goed Naar Beter’ en het succesvolle verzamelalbum ‘Nu Of Nooit’, verschenen deze maand de laatste releases van het populaire muziekduo Nick & Simon. Naast hun grootste hits, zoals o.a. ‘Rosanne’, ‘Pak Maar m’n Hand’ en ‘De Soldaat’, vind je op hun nieuwste verzamelaar ook hun versie van de Gorki-klassieker ‘Mia’, die ze een paar jaar geleden voor een muziekshow op Eén in een nieuw jasje staken. In Nederland was ‘Nu Of Nooit’ goed voor hun 11de nummer #1-album, maar ook bij ons vond hij moeiteloos de hogere regionen van de Ultratop Album 100. In Vlaanderen zijn er heel wat Nick & Simon-fans die de voorbije jaren vlotjes de weg vonden naar de Lotto Arena of de grote theaterzalen in Gent(Capitole), Antwerpen (Stadsschouwburg) en Hasselt (Trixxo Arena en Theater).

Volgend jaar nemen Nick & Simon definitief afscheid met inmiddels zes show in Rotterdam Ahoy. Enkel voor 5 april 2023 zijn er voor snelle beslissers nog tickets. Alle andere voorstellingen, inclusief de allerlaatste op 10 april 2023, zijn helemaal uitverkocht. Ook de Vlaamse fans moeten naar Rotterdam om hen uit te zwaaien, maar kunnen in afwachting voluit geniet van hun allerlaatste, nieuwe muziek.

Met ‘Van Goed Naar Beter’ is de allerlaatste Nick & Simon-single weer een heerlijk uptempo nummer geworden, voorzien van een videoclip waarin heel wat hoogtepunten uit hun 16-jarige carrière vlotjes voorbijkomen. ‘Van Goed Naar Beter’ past perfect in de muzikale lijn die het duo jarenlang bewandelde, waardoor je het automatisch toevoegt aan jouw favoriete streamlijstjes. Het nummer ligt lekker in het gehoor en werd door hun vaste producer Gordon Groothedde opnieuw voorzien van een leuke productie. De tekst en het onderwerp zijn universeel, met vooral de positieve gedachte en de overtuiging: “Misschien weet ik het zeker, ga ik van goed naar beter”, waarmee het duo doelt op betere tijden die we als mensen allemaal verdienen.

Nog even meegeven dat je op het driedelige verzamelalbum ‘Nu Of Nooit’ in totaal 50 nummers terugvindt die de hoogtepunten van 16 jaar Nick & Simon nog eens extra in de verf zetten, met voor de Vlaamse fans ook hun ‘Mia’-versie van de Gorki-klassieker. Daarnaast zijn er in de tracklist ook nummers terug te vinden die nog nooit eerder op CD verschenen zijn, zoals 'Won't Back Away' met John Dahlback en de nieuwe single 'Van Goed Naar Beter’, die het duo schreef met Lars Koehoorn. Naast archiefbeelden zie je in de clip van hun laatste single ‘Van Goed Naar Beter’ ook foto’s van hun fans, die op die manier het duo bedanken en feestelijk uitzwaaien. Zowel het album als de nieuwe, laatste single verschenen bij Warner Music.

BIJNA 100.000 TICKETS LATER IS KERSTKONING CHRISTOFF KLAAR VOOR ZIJN 10DE KERSTTOURNEE DOOR VLAANDEREN!

Met bijna 100.000 bezoekers, verspreid over 118 kerstconcerten, groeide Christoff de voorbije jaren uit tot de ‘kerstkoning van Vlaanderen’. Samen met zijn muzikanten en het jeugdkoor Scaletta start hij op zondag 11 december 2022 in de Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekerk van Tielt met zijn 10de ‘Kerst met Christoff’-tournee door Vlaanderen, goed voor 13 kerstconcerten, die hij op 29 december 2022 afsluit in de Sint-Martinusbasiliek van Halle. “Net als voor mij, zijn deze kerstconcerten ook bij het publiek uitgegroeid tot een vaste afspraak. Wat ik na afloop vaak hoor is dat de mensen genieten van de muzikale mix van kerstklassiekers en liedjes waarin een mooie boodschap zit. ‘Glorie Hallelujah’, ‘Witte Kerstmis’, het ‘Onze Vader’ en ‘Kleine trommelaar’ zijn dé absolute smaakmakers die ook dit jaar niet ontbreken op het lijstje dat we jaarlijks aanvullen met enkele muzikale verrassingen die perfect passen”, zegt Christoff enthousiast. 

Van 11 tot 29 december 2022 kan je op 13 unieke plekken in Vlaanderen weer voluit meegenieten van ‘Kerst met Christoff’, de populaire reeks van kerstconcerten waar kerstkoning Christoff dit jaar al voor de 10de keer mee op tournee gaat. "Voor mij is Kerstmis een belangrijke feestdag”, begint de populaire zanger het gesprek: “Ik spaar kosten noch moeite om het elk jaar uitgebreid te vieren, samen met de mensen die ik graag zie.”

Diezelfde magische, warme sfeer van de kerstdagen trekt Christoff door in zijn populaire kerstconcerten. Samen met het 8-koppige kinderkoor Scaletta, 4 bandleden en techniekers die hem laten schitteren in een prachtig decor, met het beste licht en geluid, is hij klaar voor zijn nieuwe reeks ‘Kerst met Christoff’: “Het laatste concert gaven we in 2019. Toen kwam de pandemie en werden we verplicht om de pauzeknop in te duwen. Die tijd is nu gelukkig voorbij, waardoor we zonder maatregelen of beperkingen weer voluit kunnen spelen voor ons publiek. Ja, we hebben dit allemaal ontzettend hard gemist. Als ik terugblik op de voorbije kersttournees, spreken we over bijna 3000 liedjes die we hebben gezongen, 20.000 kilometer die we in Vlaanderen hebben afgelegd en bijna 100.000 mensen die zijn komen kijken. Dat zijn inderdaad duizelingwekkende cijfers, waar je als artiest alleen maar trots op kan zijn, maar vooral ontzettend dankbaar voor de vele momenten die we samen met het publiek mochten delen. Als ik afga op de reacties, dan is het succes een combinatie van de muziek, de kerstsfeer en de unieke locaties. We treden op in de mooiste kerken en basilieken, maar ook de mix van de herkenbare kerstklassiekers die we afwisselen met nummers waar er een mooie boodschap in zit. Ik vind het zelf ook zalig om mensen even te laten stilstaan bij het afgelopen jaar: welk verdriet hebben ze moeten meedragen? Welke vreugde hebben ze gedeeld en hoe kijken ze uit naar de toekomst? Wat dat laatste betreft, probeer ik hen altijd de nodige moed mee te geven voor de moeilijkere momenten die er nog gaan komen. Het zijn die warme boodschappen die het allemaal bijzonder maken. Ik vind het zelf ook ontzettend fijn om die te kunnen delen met mijn publiek. Voor de 10de ‘Kerst met Christoff’ hebben we weer een schitterende setlijst opgebouwd, met uiteraard enkele verrassende songs die passen in het thema”, zegt Christoff met fonkelende ogen.

Tickets en info: www.kerstmetchristoff.be

In West-Vlaanderen kan je naar ‘Kerst met Christoff’ op zondag 11 december 2022 (20u00) in de Onze-Lieve-Vrouwe Kerk van Tielt, vrijdag 16 december (20u00) in de Sint-Maartenskerk van Ieper, zaterdag 17 december (20u00) in de Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Ter Duinenkerk van Koksijde en op dinsdag 27 december (20u00) in de Sint-Jozefskerk van Harelbeke. Christoff komt ook naar Oost-Vlaanderen: op woensdag 14 december (20u00) in de Sint-Gertrudiskerk van Wetteren, dinsdag 20 december (20u00) in de Onze-Lieve-Vrouw Hemelvaartkerk in Ninove, donderdag 22 december (20u00) in de Sint-Ghislenuskerk van Waarschoot, maandag 26 december (15u00) in de Sint-Paluskerk van Deinze en woensdag 28 december (20u00) in de Sint-Niklaaskerk van Liedekerke. Op zondag 18 december (20u00) geeft Christoff een concert in Limburg, in de Heilig Hartkerk van Hasselt. Op maandag 19 december (20u00) speelt hij in de Antwerpse Sint-Pieterskerk van Berlaar. Christoff komt ook naar Vlaams-Brabant: op woensdag 21 december (20u00) speelt hij in de Heilig Hart Kerk van Tienen en op donderdag 29 december (20u00) is er het slotconcert van deze tournee in de Sint-Martinusbasiliek van Halle. 

DAVE FOSTER BAND - 'GLIMMER' - ROCK/POP ACT SIGN TO ENGLISH ELECTRIC RECORDINGS FOR NEW ALBUM OUT 21.04.23

DAVE FOSTER BAND
GLIMMER

new album
CD  |  LP
out 21.04.23
digital
out 19.05.23
(English Electric Recordings)

pre-order
UK/Europe  |  North America
LP available on black or limited edition yellow vinyl

The rock/pop act Dave Foster Band (DFB) was founded in 2017, but actually has its origins in earlier collaborations between acclaimed guitarist/multi-instrumentalist Dave Foster and vocalist Dinet Poortman after they were introduced by a mutual friend, guitarist Steve Rothery of Marillion. Both had been members of previous groups that separately supported the prog behemoths, while Foster plays guitar in the Steve Rothery Band. He has also been a member of another leading UK prog act, Big Big Train, since 2020.

Given that Foster is based in the UK and Poortman the Netherlands, their first tentative steps were an experiment to see if they could work together effectively, but a number of co-written songs that appeared on Foster’s solo albums ‘Gravity’ (2011) and ‘Dreamless’ (2016) were solid proof that they had musical chemistry. Having formed DFB, they supported both Rothery and Marillion on European/UK tours while working on their debut album, ‘Nocebo’, which was released in 2019 and promoted with headlining dates throughout western Europe.

Its follow-up, ‘Glimmer’, is set for release on 21st April 2023 and is a cornucopia of musical delights that will appeal not only to fans of guitar-based rock on several songs that balance dazzling technique with great restraint, but also fans of crossover acts as varied as Air and The Anchoress on other piano-led tracks.

Produced by Foster, the album features guest musicians that include bassist Neil Fairclough (Queen + Adam Lambert), drummer Leon Parr (Steve Rothery Band), pianist Anthony Hindley and string arranger Stephen Boyce Buckley.

A first single from ‘Glimmer’ will be made available in January.

Discussing the making of ‘Glimmer’, Foster explains that “the pandemic stopped any further touring of ‘Nocebo’, but instead allowed us to embark on a really inspiring run of writing songs. We actually recorded the drums between lockdowns, which was frustrating but at least meant that we could let the songs mature. By the time we got round to recording again the songs had grown and developed into their final shape.”

The beginning of 2020 had certainly provided Poortman with plenty of lyrical inspiration. “Britain was leaving the European Union, the Covid pandemic was just around the corner and I was all at sea in my private life,” she notes. “Dave was sending me his pieces of music and I would play around with them and see what happened melodically and lyrically. Due to the lockdowns we literally had nothing else to do, but for me personally it was also great therapy as I was coming to terms with a marriage that had just ended. On the one hand it provided a lot of inspiration, but on the other made me realise that life is fragile and that people and relationships deserve to be cherished.”

The cover artwork for the LP and CD/digital formats of ‘Glimmer’ is a differently coloured image by photographer Neal Moran that Foster says “works perfectly with the idea of when things are hard and complicated there’s always a glimmer of light,” with Poortman adding that “this is the essence of the album title, the fact that there is always a little peek of 'Glimmer' in the corner of your eye waiting for you to acknowledge it and let it into your life. That's what I did.”

‘Glimmer’ will be released via the English Electric Recordings label run by Big Big Train, with Gregory Spawton of BBT stating: “Since coming on board in 2020, Dave has proved a great addition to Big Big Train and we are delighted to be releasing ‘Glimmer’ through our label. The songwriting by Dave and Dinet throughout the album is impressive and we believe that it will appeal to rock music fans with a diverse array of tastes. We were therefore keen to sign them.”

GLIMMER
TRACKLISTING
1  Every Waking Moment
2  Run
3  Stigma
4  Chasing An Echo
5  Dive In
6  Memory Box
7  …Or You Steal Some
8  The Rules Have Changed

davefosterband.com

'FAME' AND ‘FLASHDANCE’ SINGER IRENE CARA DIED

Irene Cara, the singer-actress best known for starring in and belting the title tracks from the 1980s movies ‘Fame’ and ‘Flashdance’, has died. She was 63.

Cara died at her home in Florida, said her publicist, Judith Moose, who announced the news on Cara's social media account on Saturday. She said a cause of death was "currently unknown."

"Irene's family has requested privacy as they process their grief," Moose wrote. "She was a beautifully gifted soul whose legacy will live forever through her music and films."

Cara was born into a working-class Puerto Rican and Cuban family in the Bronx neighborhood of New York City. As a child actor, her credits included a regular stint on the 1970s children's show The Electric Company.

​But it was Fame, the 1980 movie about a group of talented young hopefuls in New York trying to launch their careers in the cutthroat performing arts world, that launched Cara to stardom. She sang on the title track that was nominated for an Academy Award for best original song.

Fame co-star Laura Dean Koch remembered Cara as "a dynamo who could sing, dance, and act, the definition of a triple threat. Irene was a role model and someone I aspired to be like."

Three years later, Cara accepted the Oscar for best original song for "Flashdance ... What a Feeling," along with the songwriting team of Flashdance (1983) — music by Giorgio Moroder, lyrics by Keith Forsey and Cara — for which she sang the jubilant title song. She also won two Grammys for her work on Flashdance.

Cara influenced a future generation of artists. Broadway conductor and radio host Seth Rudetsky says watching Cara on screen as a kid helped shape his career ambitions.

"Irene Cara represented making it in the arts and gave us so much excitement and hope and enthusiasm to pursue the arts," he said.

NIEUWE SINGLE - TWIGGII QUINN – LOVE IT

Twiggii Quinn (Ukkel), het muzikale alter ego van Isabella Maria Rafaela Gabriella Micaela Benita De Wardin, is een Belgisch-Braziliaanse singer-songwriter. De Ukkelse schone bracht begin dit jaar haar debuutsingle 'Closer' uit. Haar nieuwe, catchy single 'Love It' gaat over donkere fantasieën, opnieuw met de knipoog.

"Mijn debuutsingle 'Closer' ging over een vorm van obsessie voor iemand. In het nummer uit ik mijn girlpower op een sensuele manier om iemands interesse te wekken en zo te verleiden. Vrouwen omarmen soms te weinig hun natuurlijke charmes. Met een goede portie charisma kan men al een heel eind komen. In de Latin wereld zie je dit ook vaak terugkomen".

De nieuwe single 'Love It' is een speels en energiek nummer, dat gaat over het tarten van autoriteit en het nemen van controle in een situatie die overweldigend lijkt. 
Het gaat ook over toegeven aan je donkerste fantasieën, maar alles op een vrolijke en opgewekte toon. "Het leven is een spel en moet niet te serieus worden genomen. Als halve Latina breng ik die boodschap graag over in mijn muziek.", zegt Twiggii Quinn.

Love It, de nieuwe single van Twiggii Quinn, kan u beluisteren op alle grote streamingplatformen.

URBANUS STELT NIEUWE PLAAT VOOR IN TOT DE NOK GEVULDE (VOORMALIGE) KERK

Urbanus stelde gisterenavond zijn nieuwste album voor in Brugge. Hij bracht er een akoestische set met zijn nieuwe nummers in een zaal vol enthousiaste fans. 

Urbanus zette de Brugse concertzaal OWLA in rep en roer. Hij stelde er zijn nieuwste album "In roer en rep" (u leest het goed) voor. De nieuwe plaat bevat negen nummers, waarvan zeven nieuwe en twee herwerkingen van de oude klassiekers: Fillemong en Fillomeen, en De wereld is om zeep. De godfather van de Vlaamse comedy koos voor een akoestische set, een recept waar het publiek duidelijk van smulde. Nieuwe nummers werden afgewisseld door klassiekers voor de eeuwigheid zoals "Madammen met een bontjas" dat luidkeels werd meegezongen. Afsluiten deed Urbanus met de meezinger "Gladde iolen". 

In het publiek konden we onder meer Manu Huylebroeck en Jan Van Eyken terug zien. Ze speelden beiden gitaar op de plaat en en stonden bovendien in voor de productie. Ook Mathieu Vanherpe, die de plaat van keys voorzag. Verder vinden we ook Ben Brunin (bas), David Thomaere (toetsen) en Dirk Jans (drums) terug op de plaat. Backing vocals werden verzorgd door de dochters van Urbanus zelf. De plaat is vanaf vandaag verkrijgbaar in de handel of via Urbanus' website. 

Wie Urbanus live aan het werk wil zien kan terecht op www.comedyshows.be voor info en tickets. Hij is momenteel op tour met zijn voorstelling Bis Bis Bis. Enkele nummers uit de nieuwe plaat zijn ook opgenomen in de voorstelling. 

NYTE SKYE - 'TAKE ME UP AGAIN' – NEW WAVE-DREAM POP SINGLE BY US FATHER & SON DUO

NYTE SKYE photography by Seth Affoumado

NYTE SKYE
TAKE ME UP AGAIN

new single
out now
[Sonic Ritual]

digital services

included on
VANISHING
debut album
out 10.01.23

"I wrote this when things were quite bleak and everyone was isolating. It felt like all we had was our family and we needed to keep each other going," states Nyles Lannon of Nyte Skye when discussing ‘Take Me Up Again’, the second single to be lifted from a forthcoming debut album of new wave/dream pop influenced songs by the San Francisco-based outfit built around vocalist/guitarist Nyles (also of celebrated shoegazers Film School) and his teenage son Skye on drums (who was only 12 when recording the album).

The bouncy 'Take Me Up Again’ follows its moody, synth driven predecessor ‘Dream State’ (Iisten HERE) which harboured similar feelings about the strange effects brought about by the pandemic. "I wanted it to operate like a time capsule of sorts,” explains Nyles. “How strange it was to go on a road trip when everyone we encountered was distant, masked and a little fearful. I knew this time would eventually pass and how strange it would all seem in the rear-view mirror. As life gets back to our new normal, I actually find myself missing those times together.”

Writing ‘Take Me Up Again’ was a process of trial and error. "It started as a very simple electronic track, kind of like a stripped-down old Cure song,” he continues. “We experimented with a lot of different sounds. Skye found a vintage marching drum at a thrift store that turned out to be a 1930’s Ludwig. We found some missing parts and hardware online and were able to refurbish it. It had a deep, long decay and tons of overtones. We also used a broken China cymbal on the chorus, with the loud trashy banging giving it a signature sound that just seemed to work.”

Nyles says that “the songs on ‘Vanishing’ capture the little ways Skye and I were coping with those early days of the pandemic; some reflective and poignant, some escapist, some playful. Music was our bond and in some ways our guiding light. It gave us a focused goal while we processed what was happening in our little world."

Formed from both the frustration of quarantine and the boundless creativity that arose from having nowhere to go and nothing else to do has resulted in other album songs such as ‘Doing Time’ (a meditation on holding onto a child’s sanguine outlook in the face of adversity) and ‘Faded’ (in which a bittersweet melody and gentle rhythm bely themes of physical and emotional frailty).

The emotional toll of lockdown, collective grief, plus the literal darkness that engulfed the sky thanks to the devastating wildfires that ravaged the landscape close to the Lannon’s home are heavy subject matter, but the resulting songs convey how they managed to keep each other sane - and inspired - through it all. Expanding on Nyles' previous work, they also incorporate elements of other bands that the duo both love, including Spiritualized, Elliott Smith and The Police (one of Skye’s main influences is Stewart Copeland). “I am so grateful for this connection we have,” beams Nyles. "Sometimes I have to remind myself that Skye is still a kid and hasn’t been in bands for 30 years like me. Yet, when he plays, he is just a damn good drummer.”

Ultimately, Nyte Skye has helped the duo cope with a uniquely challenging situation, while being stuck at home stoked their creativity. “Music was the only thing I did during the pandemic, besides online school,” says Skye. “It gave us all this time we didn't have before to make the album.” For Nyles, to be able to put out a record with his son is simply “a dream come true.”

ABOUT NYTE SKYE
Nyte Skye is Nyles Lannon (vocals, guitars) and Skye Lannon (drums), with additional contributions from Zach Rogue (Rogue Wave), Nichole Kreglow (backing vocals), lyricist Neil Rodenmeyer (Lupa Rosa) and Ian McDonald (FUTRVST). A
composer for commercials, Nyles has released several solo records that have earned accolades such as Album of the Year in the San Francisco Bay Guardian and Best Folktronica Artist in SF Weekly. He is also a member of shoegaze band Film School. Skye Lannon has been a drummer since the age of 6 after learning a basic beat from his dad. Within a few days, he was hooked and lost interest in all his other hobbies. He finished Year 9 in June 2022 (8th grade in the US).

nyte-skye.com

JOMMEKE KRIJGT EEN OFFICIËLE EDITIE VAN MONOPOLY

In het najaar van 2023 komt er een nieuwe en exclusieve Monopoly-uitgave onder officieel erkende licentie van Hasbro: Monopoly Jommeke. Deze gelimiteerde uitgave biedt de uitgelezen kans om de mooiste albums en tekeningen van de reeks te leren kennen.

Vandaag, 23/11/2022 werd deze officiële Monopoly-versie voorgesteld door Groep 24 en Standaard Uitgeverij. De editie blijft trouw aan het originele spelconcept maar wordt in de wereld Jommeke gestoken. Voor de doos werden door de Standaard Uitgeverij nieuwe tekeningen gemaakt, speciaal voor dit spel. Ook de middenplaat van het spelbord zal nieuwe tekeningen bevatten. In totaal werden negen nieuwe ontwerpen gemaakt door Jommeke tekenaar Dieter Steenhaut. De tekeningen werden, zoals steeds voor Jommeke, eerst in inkt op papier gemaakt. Nadien werden de tekeningen gescand en digitaal ingekleurd. Alle locaties van het klassieke Monopoly-spelbord worden aangepast locaties uit de strip maar ook iconische voer-, vaar-, en vliegtuigen zullen een plaatsje krijgen in het spel.

Bovendien worden ook de kans- en algemeen fondskaartjes ingevuld met verwijzingen naar de immer populaire stripreeks. Zo zal je bijvoorbeeld Monopoly geld moeten betalen omdat je de grasmobiel om zeep hielp samen met Filiberke. Voor de overige invulling van het spel is het nog wachten tot de lancering eind 2023.

De fan kan het bord eveneens mee invullen. Er is één vakje op het spelbord nog niet bepaald. Iedereen die dat wil kan stemmen op haar of zijn favoriete album – gelinkt aan een locatie. Het album, en de bijbehorende locatie, met de meeste stemmen krijgt met zekerheid een vakje op het spelbord. Het wordt dus spannend om te vernemen welk album de meeste stemmen kan verzamelen.

Stemmen kan via www.MONOPOLYSTORE.be/JOMMEKE vanaf vandaag tot 1 december.

“Ik probeer toch iedereen warm te maken om te stemmen op De Stad in de vulkaan, mijn persoonlijke favoriet” lacht zaakvoerder Pieter De Wulf. "Dat we het spel hier in Wilrijk voorstellen is natuurlijk geen toeval. Bedenker en oorspronkelijke tekenaar Jef Nys werkte en woonde er geruime tijd. Ook het beeld van de Plastieken Walvis (het legendarische album) en de Jommeke-stripmuur in Wilrijk droegen bij tot onze keuze."

Het zal gaan om een gelimiteerde oplage. Hoeveel spellen er exact zullen gedrukt worden is nog niet duidelijk maar het zal gaan om een eenmalige productie. Bovendien is er voor de grootste fans een exclusiefje: er komt een limited edition op 100 stuks met een set zeven kwalitatieve prints van de nieuwe tekeningen, steeds genummerd. Voor zij die zich willen verzekeren van een exemplaar: het spel kan nu al besteld worden als pre-order via www.MONOPOLYSTORE.be/JOMMEKE

CHRIS “BIG DOG” DAVIS FORECASTS A ‘WHITE CHRISTMAS’

Grab your winter coats and make your way to Connecticut and join Chris 'Big Dog' Davis's rendition of "White Christmas". Smooth, Jazzy, Funky Collaboration with some great artists from CT.

The song features Marty Q on sax and vocals and the lovely voice of Barbara Fowler and Singer Timmy Maia also on vocals.

'Big Dog' takes this classic "I'm  Dreaming Of A White Christmas" to another musical level. Sit back and enjoy "White Christmas" - Big Dog Style 

Happy Holidays! All Love.

OLIVIA ROX HEARS ‘JINGLE BELLS’

You may have seen her name on Times Square billboards, or heard her songs on the radio, You’ve probably seen her becoming a household name on TV with her pink hair, fashion-forward look and dynamic performances and lovable persona which caused a stir. To break it down, Olivia Rox is on the precipice of being the next big thing. She will not be the one to tell you that, because she is down to earth, humble and kind. But, her talent says otherwise. She can belt out a song that rivals the divas, yes - whistle tone included. She writes all of her own music, even being asked constantly to write for other artists, and has been likened to Carole King in her writing sensibilities.

She plays multiple instruments and has traveled all over the world doing music since she was a child. At 23 years old, she’s an old soul, with a lot to say. No, this is not a typical bio that you would normally read, but Olivia is not a typical girl. This is a girl who, when she heard that her peers were not voting in the last presidential election, stood up to this cause in a non-partisan way. She began this plight by writing a rocking bad-ass song called “Go Vote” which made her peers actually listen, resulting in one of the highest youth voter turnouts in 30 years - which incidentally, helped to sign up over 400,000 young voters to get to the polls and use their voices. Making huge waves in the 2020 presidential election, Olivia was also an ambassador for HeadCount / Global Citizen, and worked alongside Spread The Vote, and The Grammy Foundation. She’s definitely a role model with her positive spin on life, in the times when it’s not always hip to be one. She also defy’s the current state of music by using real players. Remember the days of real live musicians? Well, Olivia embraces the pure musicality that is often lost in today’s programmed, auto-tuned world. Olivia was obviously honing her “ears” while growing up in the discerning world of jazz, and then for all the world to see by landing as a finalist on Season 15 of American Idol, which garnered her much attention and earned her fans internationally.

Her wildly popular, original Christmas single “It’s Christmastime” has topped the pop charts the past two years and is becoming a holiday staple song. With so many requests to make a full-length album, voila she delivers “An Olivia Rox Christmas” which melds her original songs with a very unique twist on some of the classics - A must have for every Christmas household this year.

And, be sure not to miss “An Olivia Rox Christmas Special” airing on Comcast/ XFinity watch in the comfort of your own home On Demand, a true taste of Christmas, with many special guests for the family, this holiday season 2022.

JONATHAN FRITZEN – ‘DECK THE HALLS’

It was in 2008 that Billboard chart-topping pianist Jonathan Fritzén burst onto the scene with his debut recording ‘Love Birds’ which at the time was described as reaching the very core of what great smooth jazz is all about. Now, six hit albums later Fritzén is back with the highly anticipated ‘Piano Tales’. Released on his own label, Nordic Night Records, it is a collection that is very much all his own work.

​

Indeed, as well as producing, recording and mixing throughout he also writes all ten choice tunes. The title of each track is linked in some way to the piano, a fact born out by the first single to be serviced to radio, ‘Keys To Paradise’, which peaked at #1 on the Billboard Smooth Jazz Chart and the second single, ‘Hammers Of Love’ that also found its way into the top ten.

​

The entire collection bears testimony to Fritzén’s renowned musical innovation and this is a quality that was also on show in 2020 when, under the name of the Jonathan Fritzén Jazz Trio, he released the album ‘Bach and Jazz’. Arranged by the trio for piano bass and drums the compositions on it were all written by Johann Sebastian Bach.

Known for his high-octane live performances, Fritzén has toured coast to coast across the USA on numerous occasions. He has appeared at some of the biggest jazz festivals in both the USA and around the world while along the way has collaborated with contemporary jazz heavy hitters such as Dave Koz, Gerald Albright, Boney James and Nils Landgren to name just a few.

​

Jonathan grew up in Stockholm Sweden to a Swedish mother, and an American father. After majoring in drums in high school he studied piano for six years at the Royal College Of Music in Stockholm where he became one of the first students to take a masters degrees in jazz. As well as giving him an outstanding musical education this experience proved to be pivotal in that he completed ‘Love Birds’ shortly before his graduation.

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Quite simply Fritzén remains one of the hottest composers, producers and pianists around and, in what is already a storied career, it seems likely that there are still many tales to tell.

JESSY J ASKS ‘WHAT CHILD IS THIS’?

In 2016, top contemporary jazz and Latin saxophonist Jessy J released her first ever holiday collection-- California Christmas. In 2022, due to popular demand and her love for everything about the holidays, especially the classic songs of the season, Jessy has recorded her second album of holiday favorites - with a twist – California Christmas Volume 2.

For California Christmas Volume 2, Jessy, who serves again as executive producer for the Changi Records release enlisted some longtime collaborators (Paul Brown, Jeff Lorber and Euge Groove) and some exciting new additions. Mark Lettieri (Snarky Puppy) adds his guitar chops to “Angels We Have Heard On High” and Jason Goldman (best known for his work with Michael Bublé) provides two of the arrangements with “Jolly Old St. Nicolas” and “Up on the Housetop.” Long time band members joining in the holiday cheer are: Jay Rowe on piano, Dave Anderson on bass, Trevor Somerville on drums, Andy Abel on guitar and Richie Gajate Garcia on percussion. Other members include Norman Jackson on keyboards, Frank Abraham on bass, Iajhi Hampden on drums, Kayta Matsuno and Ash Jenga on guitars. Guest vocalists include Mississippi soul singer Maurice Smith and the smooth vocals of Brandon Wattz.

To quote Jessy from her first California Christmas album release: “For me, California Christmas (now Volume 2) is a special album for many reasons. It gives listeners the feeling of being in a warmer, sunnier climate during the holiday season. But most importantly, as an artist I get to share the holidays musically with all my fans. Christmas is my favorite time of year and I am so grateful for all of my blessings. Feliz Navidad!”

ALL HERB ALPERT WANTS FOR CHRISTMAS

Creator and innovator, musician and producer, artist, and philanthropist, Herb Alpert is a man with a profound passion.

A legendary trumpet player, Alpert’s extraordinary musicianship has earned him five #1 hits, nine GRAMMY® Awards, the latest from his 2014 album, “Steppin’ Out,” fifteen Gold albums, fourteen Platinum albums and has sold over 72 million records. Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass propelled his sound into the pop music limelight, at one point outselling the Beatles two to one. In 1966, they achieved the since-unmatched feat of simultaneously having four albums in the Top 10– and five in the Top 20. Herb Alpert also has the distinction of being the only artist who has had a #1 instrumental and a #1 vocal single.

In 2006, Alpert and Moss were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in recognition of their accomplishments and are a part of the Grammy Museum’s ”Icons of the Music Industry” series. In 2013 Herb Alpert was awarded The National Medal of Arts Award by President Barack Obama for his musical, philanthropic and artistic contributions.

In addition to his on-going creative outlets in music, philanthropy and the arts, Alpert owns the noted Vibrato restaurant/jazz club in Bel-Air, California. He also continues to perform and tour across the country with his wife, Grammy-winning vocalist, Lani Hall and their band.

Herb’s priorities derive from the same sense of generosity and humility that has guided him through a long, illustrious career. In all of these ventures, there is a harmony not unlike Alpert’s music. A flowing of energy and sound, a dedication to quality, which sustains everything Alpert does. With more than 40 years of continuous philanthropic, musical and artistic activity, Alpert has established a legacy that reflects his firm belief that the arts can make a difference in the world and in the lives of each of us.

CHRISTMAS MUSIC FROM DAVE KOZ WITH ‘HAPPY XMAS (WAR IS OVER)/IMAGINE’ FT. REBECCA JADE

Dave Koz & Friends released Christmas Ballads (25th Anniversary Collection) on September 23. The chart-topping, GRAMMY®-nominated saxophonist is joined on the album by pianist David Benoit, trumpeter Rick Braun and guitarist Peter White – the friends who accompanied him on the road in the earliest years of the Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour, which celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2022 and holds the record as the longest-running, jazz-based Christmas tour. Rebecca Jade is the featured vocalist on the album’s gorgeous medley of John Lennon’s “Happy Xmas (War Is Over) / Imagine.”

In creating a beautiful companion piece for the 25th anniversary, Koz’s vision was very different than any of his previous seven holiday sets. Unlike his earlier, rhythmically eclectic mixes of buoyant funk and soulful slow-jams, Christmas Ballads is designed as an exploration

of the romantic side of the season, setting a gentle, laid back mood for a quiet night by the fireside with a glass of wine.

“As much fun as I have creating a party atmosphere live, if you ask me my favorite part of the holidays, it’s taking the time to relax and enjoy the quiet moments, reflecting and feeling gratitude,” explains Dave Koz. “These ballads are the kind of music I want to be listening to after the big festivities are over and the sleigh bells fade into the night.”

To keep a flow of fresh magic, Koz’s main criteria for Christmas Ballads was putting new spins on songs he had never recorded before. There’s also one original – “Wrapped Up In Your Smile,” a classic-styled Koz power ballad co-written with the album’s producer and arranger, Philippe Saisse.

“He’s so French and brings a different, worldly approach, sensitivity and beauty to these tunes,” says Koz, who recently topped Billboard’s Smooth Jazz Airplay chart with “Summertime in NYC” – the fourth consecutive No. 1 single from his 2020 album, A New Day.

MOVIE ‘I WANNA DANCE WITH SOMEBODY’

I Wanna Dance with Somebody is a powerful and triumphant celebration of the incomparable Whitney Houston. Directed by Kasi Lemmons, written by Academy Award® nominee Anthony McCarten, produced by legendary music executive Clive Davis and starring BAFTA Award® winner Naomi Ackie, the film is a no-holds-barred portrait of the complex and multifaceted woman behind The Voice. From New Jersey choir girl to one of the best-selling and most awarded recording artists of all time, audiences are taken on an inspirational, poignant—and so emotional—journey through Houston’s trailblazing life and career, with show-stopping performances and a soundtrack of the icon’s most beloved hits as you’ve never heard them before. Don’t you wanna dance?

Site:

https://www.iwannadancewithsomebody.movie/

AND ALSO THE TREES - 'THE BONE CARVER' – JUST RELEASED NEW ALBUM BY UK ALTERNATIVE ROCK ACT

and also the trees
THE BONE CARVER

new album
out now
[AATT / Cargo]

buy from bandcamp

includes
IN A BED IN YUGOSLAVIA

live in London
The Lexington
19.11.22
tickets
limited media guest list available on request

and also the trees (AATT) formed in 1980 in rural Worcestershire, an environment that has provided a constant source of inspiration to a group whose music has frequently explored the dark underbelly of the British countryside. They are renowned for their captivating live performances, a unique style of mandolin-like electric guitar, poetic lyrics and dark jazz rhythms, not to mention a creative independence fiercely preserved for over four decades.

In their early years AATT caught the attention of Robert Smith of The Cure, who invited them to tour with his group on several occasions. Smith also produced their early recordings (alongside his bandmate Lol Tolhurst), while their long-term friendship was further solidified when he invited AATT to perform at the 2018 edition of the Meltdown festival in London, an event that he curated.

A continuous presence on the post-punk, alternative rock and gothic scenes in numerous territories ever since being founded in their mid-teens by singer Simon Jones and his guitarist brother Justin, AATT have gone on to release fourteen studio albums, toured frequently throughout mainland Europe, and have also visited America and Japan where they have sizeable followings.

The panoramic and filmic landscapes heard on AATT’s just released new album, ‘The Bone Carver’, sees (fragments of) stories told about people, the spaces they occupy, their closeness and the distance that lies between them. Written and recorded over a period of three years in London, Switzerland and in an ancient barn not far from their Midlands roots, the Jones’ and maverick drummer Paul Hill are joined for the first time by Grant Gordon on bass and Colin Ozanne on clarinet. Their inclusion brings a fresh twist to the group’s subtle yet intriguing evolution.

‘The Bone Carver’ follows AATT’s acclaimed 2016 album ‘Born Into The Waves’, a record considered by aficionados to be their most accomplished and a rare accolade for an act with such longevity.

THE BONE CARVER
TRACKLISTING
1  In a bed In Yugoslavia
2  Beyond action and reaction
3  The seven skies
4  The girl who walks the city
5  The book burners
6  Across the divide
7  Another town another fac
8  Last of the larkspurs
9  The bone carver
10  Sun of Kashiva

and also the trees
Simon Huw Jones - vocals and words
Justin Jones - guitars, zither, autoharp, backing vocals
Paul Hill - drums, percussion, harmonica
Grant Gordon - bass
Colin Ozanne - clarinet, bass clarinet

andalsothetrees.co.uk

VON STUPART STATES ‘IT FEELS SO GOOD’

"I am a Contemporary Jazz saxophonist and an independent artist. When the world shut down due to the pandemic, I was able to start working on my solo project which is something I have always wanted to do. I was able to connect with some awesome musicians and with the use of modern technology things really came together.

Music has always been a huge part of my life. My father played trumpet and I started formal music lessons at an early age. I have been developing and honing my craft ever since.

I am a very proud husband, father and grandfather. After 40 years of working and prioritizing providing for my family, I am now enjoying the fruits of my labor in this new season of my life. I am thrilled to be able to pour all of my passion and experience into creating music to share with the world! My primary instrument is the tenor saxophone but I also play alto, soprano and EWI. 

I hope you can feel the joy, passion, and love! Spread joy! Spread love! Spread hope!" - Von Stupart

PAUL TAYLOR’S NEW SINGLE ‘AND NOW THIS’

Over 25 years into a stellar, multi-faceted career that’s found him continually pushing the sonic boundaries of what’s possible in contemporary urban jazz, saxophonist Paul Taylor brings us his highly-anticipated new recording AND NOW THIS on Peak Records.

AND NOW THIS, fully created via the exchange of digital files between the Las Vegas based Taylor and his longtime musical compadre, collaborator, co-writer and producer Dino Esposito, features the saxman’s ongoing exploration of an expansive range of dynamic danceable grooves and intricate pop/electronica vibes. The ten tracks fully reflect the way Taylor began moving forward in his personal and creative life, as if to say, in his words, “we’re coming out of the pandemic, this is what I’ve been creating, we’re kicking it back into high gear and we are more open-minded in our approach to music than ever.”

From the atmospheric soul and fast paced funk of the title track (featuring the guitar of Brian Monroney) through the sultry flow of the closing track “Good Night,” AND NOW THIS also celebrates the decades long friendship and intuitive, forward thinking musical chemistry between Taylor and Esposito. Their dynamic history dates back to when they played in the same band as students at the University of Nevada Las Vegas – and includes Taylor touring in Esposito’s band when he was a pop star in the late 80s touring with New Kids on the Block.

Esposito has been Taylor’s chief sonic co-architect since the saxophonist’s 1995 debut On The Horn and subsequently collaborated on Pleasure Seeker (1997), Undercover (2000), his Peak Records debut Hypnotic (2001), Nightlife (2005), Prime Time (2011), Tenacity (2014) and Countdown (2016).

Among Taylor’s chief musical influences in recent years have been globally popular, cutting edge DJ/producer/artists like the late Avicii, Tiesto and Regard. Complementing the new album’s nine inspiring originals, Taylor and Esposito have a blast bringing a vibrant, freewheeling new energy to a re-imagining of “Ride It,” Regard’s global 2019 hit remix of Jay Sean’s 2008 #1 UK R&B hit that started as a viral sensation on TikTok. Taylor’s infectious twist features the smooth, soulful vocals and fast paced phrasing of Jamie Jones of the GRAMMY winning group All-4-One.

The remarkable thing about those Taylor-Esposito collabs is that even the earliest albums they did together in the late 90s and early 2000s sound as sonically and rhythmically innovative as they did a few decades ago. A popular presence in contemporary urban jazz since the early 90s when he toured and later recorded with Keiko Matsui, Taylor scored #1 Billboard hits in the 2010s with “Burnin’,” “Push To Start” and “Supernova” and had his first #1 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Albums chart with Ladies’ Choice (2007), which was produced by Barry J. Eastmond and Rex Rideout.

During the course of his storied career, the Denver native has headlined hundreds of shows and has been part of numerous all-star tours – including dates with Peter White and Euge Groove in a lineup affectionately dubbed “Peter, Paul and Euge;” Gentleman of the Night (with Marion Meadows and Warren Hill). He has also performed with The Rippingtons and the acclaimed “Groovin’ For Grover” tour. Some of his first post-pandemic lockdown shows have been with labelmate Michael Lington and Sax to the Max with Michael and Vincent Ingala.

Officially entering his second quarter century of recording, with AND NOW THIS, Taylor is as excited as ever to continue casting his creative aim higher and grateful for every opportunity to bring his best to his loyal legion of longtime and newer fans. “What I like most about the new album is its freshness, and the fact that after 25 years, Dino and I still have so many unique avenues to explore,” he says. “It’s a special album created in unusual, highly stressful times. There’s something to be said for all of us artists persevering through the shutdown of 2020 and finding a way to get it done. And we did — AND NOW THIS!”

WILL DOWNING - ‘KINDA GUY’

Sophisticated Soul Records

Will contacted me a few nights ago saying he wanted to see if I would assist him with sending out a "gift" to all of you, which in this case is a song from an upcoming new album he'll be releasing in Q1 of 2023.  "Kinda Guy" is another smooth tune from this warm baritone voiced master of lights down low romantic soul music.  If this song fits what you do with the vocals you play, he would be grateful for your airplay.

HELFT VAN ITALIAANS DUO LA BIONDA OVERLEDEN

De Italiaanse muzikant en songwriter Carmelo La Bionda is gisteren op 73-jarige leeftijd overleden. Carmelo werd op 2 februari 1949 geboren in Ramacca, Sicilië. Zijn broer Michelangelo werd geboren op 25 augustus 1952. Het gezin La Bionda verhuisde in 1954 naar Milaan. De broers besloten samen te werken en debuteerden als songwriters met het nummer ‘Primo Sole, Primo Fiore’, dat door Ricchi e Poveri werd gepresenteerd op het songfestival van Venitië in 1970. Carmelo en Michelangelo schreven ook ‘Neve Bianca, Amica, Gentile Se Vuoi’ voor de Italiaanse zangeres Mia Martini en ‘Piccolo Uomo’, samen met tekstschrijver Bruno Lauzi. De broers brachten in die periode zelf de albums ‘Fratelli La Bionda’ en ‘Tutto Va Bene’ uit. Michelangelo La Bionda deed ook sessiewerk. In 1975 speelde hij akoestisch gitaar op het album ‘Volume VIII’ van Fabrizio De André. Twee jaar later haakten de broers in op de opkomende discorage met Engelstalige nummers als ‘Disco Bass’ en ‘Burning Love’. Als uitvoerende artiesten werden de broers La Bionda in 1978 wereldberoemd met de discohit ‘One For You, One For Me’, een nummer met een zeer eenvoudige tekst en een aanstekelijke discobeat. De single werd ook in Nederland een grote hit, met de zesde plaats als hoogste notering in de Top 40. In België bereikte de single zelfs de eerste plaats in zowel de Vlaamse Ultratop 50 als de Vlaamse Radio 2 Top 30. Een ander bekend nummer van La Bionda was ‘Baby Make love’. In 1983 verleenden Carmelo en Michelango hun medewerking aan het eveneens Italiaanse duo Righeira, bestaande uit Stefano Righi en Stefano Rota, met de nummers ‘Vamos A La Playa’ en ‘No Tengo Dinero’. In 1999 haalden de broers opnieuw de Nederlandse hitlijst met de single ‘Eeah Dada!’. Hierna bleef het lange tijd stil, maar in 2010 lieten de broers opnieuw van zich horen met de nummers ‘I Love You’ en You're So Fine The Blonde’. Daarnaast was het duo vooral op de achtergrond actief met het produceren van nummers van andere artiesten. Carmelo La Bionda ruste in vrede!

Met dank aan Leo Weijers.

GRAMMY WINNER CHANCE HOWARD IS GRATEFUL TO BE RELEASING NEW MUSIC AFTER SURVIVING A DEVASTATING CAR CRASH

The R&B/funk/jazz vocalist and multi-instrumentalist drops “Buy Me Love” featuring saxophonist Candy Dulfer.

MINNEAPOLIS (4 November 2022): With Halloween in the rearview, our attention shifts to giving thanks. After surviving a horrific car wreck three years ago, Grammy-winning singer, multi-instrumentalist, producer and songwriter Chance Howard is not only grateful to be alive, but thankful to be releasing new music despite still being confined to living in a rehab facility where he is learning how to walk again. Teaming with his longtime collaborator and dear friend, saxophone star Candy Dulfer, Howard just dropped a smooth and soulful R&B reimagination of The Beatles’ “Can’t Buy Me Love” that he retitled “Buy Me Love.”

Exhausted from playing shows in the same week with Brian Culbertson in Chicago, Marcus Miller in Los Angeles and Dulfer in Minneapolis where Howard is based, the musician known for performing and/or recording with Prince, Morris Day and The Time, Nikka Costa, Karyn White, Alexander O’Neal, Chaka Khan, LL Cool J, Notorious B.I.G., George Clinton, Bootsy Collins, Gladys Knight and Michael Bolton fell asleep at the wheel, crashing into the median. His injuries included spinal cord damage, a severed aorta and breaking twelve ribs. The doctors expect Howard to walk again but they didn’t tell him how arduous the recovery process would be nor how long it would take. Howard is expected to remain an inpatient rehab resident for another year.

Unable to tour and work producing, writing and performing, Howard has been without an income amidst skyrocketing medical and rehabilitation costs and canceled health insurance policies. Some of his high-profile friends have come to his aid as well as The Smooth Jazz Cruise community. Dulfer and fellow sax sensation Dave Koz led the charge through GoFundMe. All proceeds from the sale of “Buy Me Love” will go directly to Howard’s medical bills.

“This has been the biggest struggle I’ve ever had to undertake. But I know that with my faith in God, and a lot of love from my friends, I’ll be able to get back up on that stage again, doing what I love to do,” said Howard who is still confined to a wheelchair.

“Since the accident, I’ve been doing more and more strength building, but there’s also a lot of other bumps along this road that I’m going to have to get over. I’m definitely sure I’m going to make it through this because I believe in the power of God, and I also believe in myself,” said Howard, a Grammy winner for his work on Prince’s “Musicology” album.       

Howard recorded “Buy Me Love” prior to the accident. While on tour with Dulfer in Amsterdam, Howard and Dulfer performed an impromptu version of “Buy Me Love” during an informal nightclub jam session. After the gig, a married couple approached Howard. While they were unable to speak English, they clearly loved the rendition. Days after the show, the husband unexpectedly passed away. His wife tracked down Howard and asked if he could record the song to be played at her husband’s memorial service. Howard sings and plays all the instruments on the track except for Dulfer’s sax. That recording is now widely available as a digital single from Apple Music and other streaming services.     

The thought of making new music and launching new ventures sustains Howard as he grinds away each day at physical therapy. He envisions recording an album featuring an all-star cast performing songs that he writes and produces; producing an entire album by Dulfer; and launching his own podcast called Chance’s Boom Boom Room (fans of The Smooth Jazz Cruise will understand the reference).

“A big dream of mine is to have a concert hall named Chance’s Boom Boom Room. I want it to be a part of the community that gives back by having two shows a night by a different artist almost every night as well as a venue that provides music lessons for kids, food and clothing drives for those in need, and other efforts that benefit the community,” said Howard, who considers himself to be a giver, which make his circumstances that rendered him dependent upon the assistance and generosity of others so humbling.  

“With the holidays coming around, I’m most thankful for being alive. I’m still a work in progress but that’s okay. Progress is just another word for ‘getting better.’ And that’s exactly what I’m doing. I may not have walked in here (the rehab facility), but I’ll be damned if I don’t walk out this MF!”

To make a donation to Howard’s GoFundMe this holiday season, please visit https://www.gofundme.com/f/in-support-of-chance-howard.

Additional information about Howard is available at https://www.chancehoward.com.

THE BODYGUARD 30TH ANNIVERSARY CINEMA EVENT

In celebration of 30 years of ‘The Bodyguard’, the timeless classic returns to the big screen for a special two-day fan event on Sunday, November 6 & Wednesday, November 9.

In addition to viewing the beloved movie, fans in attendance will enjoy the music videos for “Queen of the Night”, “I Will Always Love You” and "I Wanna Dance With Somebody", celebrating the legacy of Whitney Houston following the film.

30 years ago today, “I Will Always Love You” was released in the lead up to the groundbreaking film, The Bodyguard. 10 x Platinum sales and 1 billion video views later, the song is still a favorite around the world.

CINEMATIC ROCKBAND EARTHSIDE DELEN NIEUWE TRACK ‘WE WHO LAMENT’

Cinematic rockband Earthside onthullen gloednieuwe track “We Who Lament” ft. Keturah

Via Music Theories Recordings/Mascot Label Group

Stream HIER

Earthside keren terug met hun majestueuze nieuwe nummer, "We Who Lament", ft. Keturah, dat nu beschikbaar is via Music Theories Recordings/Mascot Label Group. Ze vergezellen ook het Deens-Zweedse kwartet VOLA op hun aankomende negendaagse tour door de VS en Canada van 12 tot 22 november. Kaarten haal je HIER.

Met een lengte van iets minder dan 9 minuten heeft het New England Cinematic rockcollectief wederom een prachtige track voortgebracht. Van meeslepende grandeur tot razende intensiteit, het nummer reist meedogenloos voort met gastvocalist Keturah in het midden. Haar verbluffende levering vanaf het openingssalvo, "to be free or fearful? To believe in a past controlled, deciding what remembers," zet de toon voor het nummer; onschuld en woede, kwetsbaarheid en meedogenloze vastberadenheid.

Muzikaal en tekstueel is het nummer een openbaring voor de band. "We're still the idealistic and emotionally candid individuals from A Dream In Static, but no longer being able to see the world and humankind through a more hopeful lens—no longer being able to overlook the cracks and broken promises in the narratives we've been fed from an early age."

Keturah was cruciaal voor het soort nummer en de indruk die de band wilde maken. "We immediately fell in love with the inimitable character of Keturah's voice upon a progressive music fan messaging Jamie recommending her. We composed the "We Who Lament" vocal part for a very specific mode of expression, and we turned over innumerable stones before being gifted a link to her live show and having a visceral emotional reaction that she was the vocalist we'd been holding out for on this song if we could somehow connect with her."

"We adore the performance and heart Keturah put into this song and cannot wait for you to hear her breathe fire over this track. 'Here We Lie—Our Souls in Cinders.'"

Waar hun debuut een introspectief album was, gaat "We Who Lament" verder in de trant van "All We Knew And Ever Loved" door verder te kijken dan het individu. In confrontatie met de tragische staat van de mensheid en de planeet die we bewonen. "Growing up in a world where cold practicality and stubborn resistance to change rule the day. At every turn, it can feel that people like us, with emotional and idealistic wiring, are treated with disdain and pushed to accept things the way they are. Comply, be complacent—"be realistic," they say. "We're taught to live our lives with certain core values and that doing the right thing will be rewarded, only to see the most exploitative and coercive figures become the titans of modern society."

"These attitudes and this status quo have gotten us to this point and kicked the can far enough. In the face of this inertia and the dire problems before us, we need to resist hardening ourselves and use our hearts and minds to expand our connections and bring about the change we yearn for, no matter how much time it takes or how much resistance we face. In a sense, it's a call to arms—albeit in the most peaceful but urgent of senses."

Na de release van de verbluffende video voor "All We Knew And Ever Loved" vorig jaar zomer, is dit het tweede nummer van hun aanstaande album. "We Who Lament" werd gemasterd door Ted Jensen (Mastodon, Gojira, Bring Me The Horizon) en gemixt door Forrester Savell (Karnivool, Animals As Leaders).

Earthside is:
Jamie Van Dyck
Ben Shanbrom
Frank Sacramone
Ryan Griffin

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REBECCA ANGEL SINGS ABOUT ‘MAUREEN’

If one were to hear Rebecca Angel’s Love Life Choices without knowing the singer’s backstory, it’s doubtful that the listener would ever guess it’s a debut album. Here, within these 10 songs, are maturity and poise, well-honed craftsmanship and a steely confidence, smart musical choices and an innate sense of self. Rebecca Angel’s individuality shines through on each diverse track, whether it’s one in which she had a compositional hand or a well-chosen interpretation. Sophisticated performances like these are more commonly the mark of an artist who’s been at it much longer than Rebecca.

On these 10 stellar tunes, Rebecca Angel threads together elements of several musical genres, including jazz, soul, pop and Brazilian music, fashioning an instantly embraceable hybrid sound. For the sessions, Rebecca assembled a world-class team of collaborators, including veteran jazz/R&B producer/arranger Jason Miles (Miles Davis, Luther Vandross, Grover Washington Jr.), who also provides keyboards, and an impressive cast of virtuosic top-shelf musicians, among them guitarist Romero Lubambo, bassist Reggie Washington, drummer Gene Lake, and trumpeter/flugelhornist Dennis Angel, who also happens to be Rebecca’s father.

Each of Rebecca’s performances is richly textured, finely nuanced and sophisticated, reminiscent of artists who’ve been at it much longer than she has. Throughout the album, even as she glides easily from style to style, Rebecca Angel puts her own distinctive stamp on each track. “I never try to be someone I’m not.” She says, “the most important thing is believing in what you sing or play, because if you don’t believe it nobody else will.”

WAYNE GUTSHALL FT. STEVE OLIVER HAVE A ‘SPANISH LOVE’

After playing on the Grammy award winning album "Mamblue" Watbe Gutshall released his debut album "Spicy", which produced five number one singles on SmoothJazz.com's world listener chart, appeared twice on Billboard's most added chart, and placed him on many of the top 100 contemporary jazz charts.

After much success with the release of the first single "Going Up" from his upcoming second album, Wayne is poised to release his next single "Spanish Love" which features Billboard #1 hit guitarist Steve Oliver.  "Spanish Love is a stunningly beautiful ballad written by Wayne for his wife who is of Spanish descent.

In addition to performing with Oliver, Wayne has performed with such artists as Paul Brown, Nathan East, Nestor Torres, Arturo Sandoval, Dave Valentin, and Brendan Rothwell and has appeared in jazz festivals in California and Florida.

Allen Kepler of The Smooth Jazz Network says, "Wayne Gutshall is one of the rising stars in smooth jazz" and Sandy Shore, founder and CEO of SmoothJazz.com, calls Wayne "A modern master of saxophone".

"Spanish Love"

Wayne Gutshall - Alto Saxophone & Keyboard

Steve Oliver - Guitar

Ray Lyon - Piano & Keyboard

Julio Hernandez - Bass

Orlando Hernandez - Drums

Hector Gomez - Bongos

NEW SINGLE ‘SIR DEE’ FROM DEE LUCAS

National recording artist & saxophonist Dee Lucas is back with another stunning hit! This time, he musically says ‘Thank You’ to the legendary Stevie Wonder with the feel-good original tune ‘Sir Dee’. 

"Sir Dee"

Produced by David P. Stevens

Mastered by Steve Hall at Future Disc Systems

Dee Lucas – Soprano Saxophone

Carl Cox – Tenor Saxophone

Frank McComb – Rhodes

Eric Valentine – Drums

David P. Stevens – Guitar, Bass, & Keys

KENNY NIGHTINGALE DOES A ‘KING DAVID DANCE’

With an eye and ear for perfection when it comes to the saxophone, the gifted artist Kenny Nightingale is the protagonist of his own craft. 

Nightingale has for quite some time confirmed his ingenuity through his angelic sounds with a unique blend from all parts of the world. His performances are a brand unmatched that have helped him rise to the epitome of the versatile instrument and turned him into an inspiration for many upcoming saxophonists. His brand extends deeper into his character which has sharpened him for this lucrative music industry and commissioned him to do this every day. 

A smooth jazz and R&B recording artist based in the US, Kenny was originally born on the west side of the Motherland in Lagos, Nigeria. His musical prowess draws back to earlier times when he was only eight years. Growing up in a musically inclined family, the prodigy grew up watching his father perform to the sound of different instruments. His father usually took him along for a couple of shows when he noticed his interest in the craft. He later taught him how to play the saxophone and percussion. While growing up, Nightingale had affluent interests in artists such as; Grover Washington Jr., Jonathan Butler, Slash, John Coltrane, Kenny G, Jimmy Hendricks, Sadao Watanabe and Dave Koz just to name a few among others. Ever since he made his debut in the art of the saxophone, he has carried on with intention and a longing to do music with some of his influences. This has influenced his creativity greatly, creating music that has elevated him to a position where he is now admired by many for his agility. 

Nightingale has cemented his brilliance and originality with his sound that includes a fusion of gospel and contemporary beats. As a songwriter, he makes music that originates from deep within and bears the taste of a star. His production is unique in such a way that he tries to make his music a replication of his own self and how he feels. Much of his musical ideas stem across continents as far as the motherland (Africa) to the western world just to create a groove with a sound so different from many performers in the same niche. This originality has helped Nightingale to create a vast discography comprising music in the genres of jazz, smooth jazz, world beats, rhythm, and blues.

"King David Dance drew an influence from jazz greats such as Jonathan Butler, Dave Grusin, Hugh Masekela, Richard Bona, Sadao Watanabe. I just can't help but keep on dancing to my groove." - Kenny Nightingale 

BRYAN ANDERSON IS ‘SMOKIN’’

Bryan Anderson is a bassist, songwriter, and producer with 11 solo projects to his credit. His unique sound of what he calls “groove music” blends smooth jazz, old school funk, Latin rhythms and a taste of island vibes. A natural entertainer, Bryan pulls you into his live performances. He takes you on a musical journey from high energy funk to laidback grooves and soothing ballads. Bryan surrounds himself with first rate, established musicians. His shows leave you wanting more. Bryan performs at various music venues, private event, local benefits, and festivals. If you gravitate towards the music of Grover Washington, Jr., Spyro Gyra, Boney James, and Jeff Lorber, you are sure to appreciate Bryan Anderson.

"Smokin'"

Bryan Anderson - Bass, synth pads

Allan Phillips - Piano, keys, synth, pads

Nicholas Mead - trumpet

Jacob Shaw - sax

Patric Hays - trombone

Martin Verdonk - percussion

Derico Watson - drums

Written, arranged and produced by Bryan Anderson

NOTORIOUS ROCK ‘N’ ROLL STAR JERRY LEE LEWIS DIED

Jerry Lee Lewis received an outpouring of praise from other rockers on social media when his death at the age of 87 was announced on Oct. 28.

The rock 'n' roll pioneer, nicknamed the Killer, led a topsy-turvy, multidecade career that was befitting of his wild live performances. Lewis made his recording debut in December 1956 with a cover of Ray Price's country hit "Crazy Arms," released on Sun Records. But it was his 1957 rendition of "Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On," written by Dave "Curlee" Williams and first recorded by Big Maybelle, that catapulted Lewis to stardom. The song peaked at No. 3 on the Billboard Hot 100 and No. 1 on the country and R&B charts, adding fuel to the fire of the emergent rock 'n' roll genre.

Lewis scored another smash in 1957 with "Great Balls of Fire," which reached No. 2 on the Hot 100 and became one of his signature songs. "Breathless," released in early 1958, also reached the Top 10. But the singer's career floundered following his May 1958 British tour, where reporters discovered that Lewis had married his 13-year old first cousin, Myra Gale Brown.

Following the revelation, Lewis wouldn't score another hit for a decade, though his 1964 live album Live at the Star Club, Hamburg earned rave reviews and became an all-time classic live LP. The singer experienced a career resurgence in 1968 with his cover of Del Reeves' "Another Place, Another Time." It reached No. 4 on the country chart and kicked off an incredible run of Top 10 country hits that lasted for the next decade.

SOUL SINGER GERALDINE HUNT DIED

Soul singer Geraldine Hunt, best known for her dance hit, ‘Can’t Fake The Feeling’, died on Thursday 27th October. The news was announced by her son Freddie (also a singer). Few details were made available save that Ms. Hunt was aged 77.

Though she was born in St Louis, Geraldine (real name, Geraldine Milligan) was brought up in Chicago. At school she was a classmate of Minnie Riperton. She made her recording debut in the early 60s working with labels like Katron, Bombay and USA. In the 70s she was pacted to Roulette. Her Roulette singles, ‘Never, Never Leave Me’ b/w ‘Push, Sweep’ (in 1970), ‘Now That There’s You’ b/w ‘Shades Of Blue’ (in 1971), ‘Baby, I Need Your Loving’ b/w ‘Cry, Cry, Cry’ (in 1972) attracted some attention on the Northern soul scene.

In the late 70s she was signed to Prism and released a couple of albums, the second of which, 1980’s ‘No Way’ yielded her biggest hit, Can’t Fake The Feeling’.

JESSE MALIN - UK / EUROPEAN TOUR 2023 TO CELEBRATE 20TH ANNIVERSARY DELUXE REISSUE OF DEBUT ALBUM 'THE FINE ART OF SELF DESTRUCTION'

JESSE MALIN
UK / EUROPEAN TOUR 2023
celebrating
THE FINE ART OF SELF DESTRUCTION
(20th Anniversary deluxe reissue)

New York based Jesse Malin is marking twenty years as a solo artist with a UK and European tour to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of his acclaimed 2003 debut album ‘The Fine Art Of Self Destruction’. Malin and his band will perform the album in its entirety, as well as songs from his current album ‘Sad and Beautiful World’ (2021) and more. Special guest Tommy Stinson of The Replacements will provide support.

The tour follows Malin's 2022 performance at Glastonbury, a run of shows with Brian Fallon and sold-out headlining dates. Tickets are on sale now (see itinerary below).

‘The Fine Art Of Self Destruction’ will be reissued in early 2023 with a bonus disc of the entire album re-recorded and reimagined. Full release details will follow shortly.

After spending his teenage years in the pioneering hardcore band Heart Attack and his 20s fronting the wild and beloved D Generation, Malin took a cue from his songwriting heroes and was ready for a chance to stand alone. ‘The Fine Art Of Self Destruction’ was recorded live and raw over six days in New York City. “It wasn’t named for drug or alcohol abuse,” explains Malin. “It was more about personal wreckage when I looked back on my life, from my parents' divorce to failed relationships, broken up bands, dropping out of school, crashing cars, breaking things. It was more of a spiritual journey in some sense.”

He continues: “I was still learning how to sing and tell stories. I had started out stripped down, just me and a piano player, but when Ryan Adams came in to produce, he added some instrumentation that really lent itself to a more open, wider feel. These songs were written in a little apartment downtown, without a record deal, a manager, or any expectation of anything coming of it - just a need to write them.”

 The original album was released to rave reviews, with The Times stating that “Malin writes vivid songs with killer tunes and sings them with scary conviction. There is simply nothing more you can demand from a great rock record.”

JESSE MALIN
UK / EUROPEAN TOUR 2023
15.02.23  GLASGOW Stereo  tickets
16.02.23  MANCHESTER YES (The Pink Room)  tickets
17.02.23  LONDON The Garage  tickets
18.02.23  PARIS (FR) La Boule Noire  tickets
19.02.23  UTRECHT (NL) dB's  tickets
23.02.23  BERGAMO (IT) Druso  tickets
24.02.23  RAVENNA (IT) Bronson  tickets
25.02.23  MARENO DI PIAVE, TV (IT) Corner Live  ticket info to follow
27.02.23  HAMBURG (DE) Nochtspeicher  tickets
28.02.23  COPENHAGEN (DK) Hotel Cecil  tickets
01.03.23  LUND (SE) Mejeriet  tickets
02.03.23  STOCKHOLM (SE) Bar Brooklyn  tickets
03.03.23  OSLO (NO) John Dee  tickets

jessemalin.com

MERLON DEVINE HAS THINGS ‘STIRRED’

Gifts. Talents. Blessings. All to serve a specific purpose that serves others. And they are to be utilized fully to fulfill that function. That’s how soul-jazz saxophonist Merlon Devine sees it, using his to write and record contemporary jazz that is church derived. His new upbeat instrumental R&B single “Stirred” goes for playlist adds on October 24.

“I believe everyone has a gift. Every person on earth has something they were given - from God - to help them fulfill their purpose while on earth. There’s a scripture in the Bible that talks about each person ‘stirring’ their gift. In other words, your gift should not collect dust, but each person should make sure they keep their gift sharp and in use. I feel we are most effective and happy when we use the gift we’ve been given,” said Devine about the feel-good song he wrote with producer Matt Godina (Darren Rahn, Julian Vaughn, Nicholas Cole, Lin Rountree).

“Stirred” is the ne single from Devine’s eighth album, Soul Jazz which dropped last year. Emoting passion, inspiration and grace, Devine plays saxes and flute on the track. Godina adds keyboards, guitar and programming to the ebullient harmonies. The midtempo groove is anchored by bassist Kevin “Mr. Kevin Jerome” Stancil and drummer Lester Estelle, Jr.  

It’s natural for Devine to turn to his faith when it comes to composing music. Born in Little Rock, AR to parents who pastored a church, the household was always filled with music, primarily gospel. While Devine’s nine siblings could all sing, he found his voice via saxophone. Church informed his spirituality, but discovering contemporary jazz informed his music. From Jesus and the Apostles to Groover Washington, Jr., Najee, George Howard, Kirk Whalum and other saxophone greats, Devine found a creative path for his artistic expression to incorporate both pillars in his life.

“My love for contemporary jazz grew as I grew as a player. Listening to these saxophonists, mixed with the soulful and heartfelt riffs I was hearing at church, shaped me into what I am today. When I started writing songs, it was contemporary jazz. It evolved into a wonderful opportunity for me to provide churches with instrumental music in the style of contemporary jazz during sacred worship gatherings. I consider myself a contemporary jazz ambassador to the church,” said Devine who lives with his family just outside of Washington, DC.

MICHAEL FIELDS JR. FEAT. FRED SMITH SAY ‘I LIKE THAT’

National/International Recording Artist/Bassist/Producer Michael Fields Jr. is impacting the world with his musical gift. 

Michael burst on the scene in 2016 with his debut Album Mr.Fields then in 2018 with "On The Move" with his two hit songs "Lovette Road" & "Let's Ride". His music can be heard on smooth jazz stations worldwide with significant recognition on SiriusXM Watercolors, The Smooth Jazz Network & America's Music Charts (Mediabase). 

Michael's last single "Get Up On It" peaked at #28 on the Smooth Jazz Top 100 charts. Michael is the founder of Water From Rock Productions and Jazz On Green.  In 2021 he started a nonprofit "Keep Music Alive Foundation" which is doing extensive work in the Tulsa and surrounding areas. Michael's greatest joy is being a father to his three beautiful children Zion, Michael & Madison.

Michael Fields Jr. will definitely be a name you won't forget!

NEW SINGLE ‘COLD DUCK TIME’ FROM LEO P

The high-energy dancing, theatrics and sound effects of a Leo P performance are irresistible but none of that can be delivered on a studio recording; the music itself must carry the day. On Leo P’s debut solo recording on Shanachie, the aptly titled “Coming Up Aces,” the music—a joyous amalgam of funk and jazz—does exactly that. “Don't let his over-the-top performances fool you,” says Shanachie’s VP of A & R Danny Weiss. “Leo P plays with the depth and passion of the jazz greats. Oh, and he's also revolutionized the baritone sax!” 

Comin’ Up Aces is a compelling showcase for Leo P’s exceptional blowing as well as a fulfillment of his goal to deliver high-quality musicianship in an earthy, accessible package that is very different from his work with his band Too Many Zooz. “Too Many Zooz is very aggressive and high energy,” Leo notes. "As I got older I wanted to play a little more melodically and build my solos more deliberately and not play everything I know in a solo but take my time and be more emotional. For this album I wanted a few different types of grooves: funky, bluesy, salsa…different feels.”

Produced by Leo’s good friend, Brooklyn-based producer Tom Wilson, Comin’ Up Aces makes good on Leo’s intention with seven tasty originals and compelling versions of such classics as Charles Mingus’ “Goodbye Porkpie Hat,” Les McCann and Eddie Harris’ “Cold Duck Time” and Earth Wind & Fire’s “Serpentine Fire.” Galactic drummer Stanton Moore delivers the New Orleans funk on “Issa's Blues,” hit-making saxophonist Richard Elliot, formerly of Tower of Power and The Yellowjackets, graces “Cold Duck Time," along with trumpeter Eric "Benny" Bloom of jamband faves Lettuce. The title track is inspired by Maceo Parker, another inspiration. 

Throughout the new album, Leo’s playing on baritone saxophone is a revelation and not simply because it is rare to hear so much soloing on the instrument. He plays notes that are not normally a part of the instrument’s range and with a fluidity and dexterity that is stunning. All in all, Comin’ Up Aces is a great marriage of chops, feeling and groove. 

Leo’s interest in edgy fashion is obvious and it is likewise unsurprising that his high energy performing style has evolved into a serious work-out regimen. He even posted a couple of workout videos on the Too Many Zoos channel. “Often musicians don’t care how they look,” Leo says. “But I think the visual is just as important in a performance as the music because when you go to a show you don’t say you go to hear a show you say you’re going to SEE a show. There are bands I don’t necessarily like who I love the way they look. Even Kiss for instance; they had a fantastic look that you remember. I always wanted attention. I used to be skinny but now I want more defined muscles now that I’m in my early 30’s. When I was playing in the subway I wasn’t working out because I was playing and dancing for hours. Now I’m touring so I work out every day. I like the natural high and the energy.”

It’s no surprise then that Leo wants his music to reach the widest possible audience, something many jazz musicians don’t aspire to. “I want to bring the party back to jazz. I want to make people dance. I want to wear badass suits and look cool as hell and present something special to people that they will always remember!”

ERIC VALENTINE FEAT. RICHARD ELLIOT WITH ‘LET’S MOVE’

Hit producer and drummer, Eric Valentine continues his quest to provide music you can feel with his latest single, Let’s Move featuring Richard Elliot. Eric Valentine is Richard Elliot’s long-time drummer. They’ve collaborated and performed together on hit recordings, including Eric’s 2018 single “Velvet Groove” that was Billboard’s #2 Song of the Year.   

Eric went on to produce songs that leave music-lovers grooving to his singable melodies, rich harmonies, and impeccable grooves. His most recent single, "Q’s Vibe" ft. Everette Harp & Greg Manning peaked at #1 on Billboard, Mediabase, and The Smooth Jazz Network charts.  

"Let’s Move" features a memorable soulful melody over pulsing, four-on-the-floor grooves. Crisp horn-lines dance with the rhythmic percussion, revisiting the sounds native to Eric’s hometown of Washington, D.C.  

Eric calls "Let’s Move" a 'musical gumbo' where 'all the flavorings of soul, gospel, and jazz work together to create a rich listening experience.' "Let’s Move" will be served to listeners via radio airwaves on October 24 and digital media stores on October 28. 

"Let's Move" ft. Richard Elliot

Written & produced by Eric Valentine

Co-written by Carnell Harrell

Executive Producers - Eric Valentine & LaTisha B. Valentine

Mixed by Ken Freeman and Eric Valentine 

Mastered by Euge Groove, House of Groove Mastering

Eric Valentine - Drums, Keyboards, Programming

Richard Elliot - Saxophone

Keith McKelley - Horn Section

Carnell Harrell - Rhodes, Piano

David Dyson - Bass

Jairus “JMO” Mozee - Guitar

Tim Carmon - Organ

Arthur Thompson - Percussion

Ramon Yslas - Percussion

CONQUERDIVIDE DEELT MUZIEKVIDEO VOOR NIEUWE SINGLE ‘PARALYZED’

CONQUER DIVIDE - de vijfkoppige band afkomstig uit de VS, het VK en Canada die lof heeft ontvangen van o.a. Revolver, Alternative Press, Modern Drummer, Loudwire en meer - heeft zojuist hun nieuwe single "Paralyzed" gedeeld.

Gitarist Kristen Sturgis deelt "This song is about battling with mental illness and depression —especially during the pandemic — and feeling like you are too mentally paralyzed to move forward."

Kristen onthult haar eigen ervaring als verpleegster tijdens COVID, "I was in a dark place because, as some people may or may not know, I am a critical care nurse when I am not touring. I was traveling around the country to all these hot spots to help-out with COVID, and I saw dozens of people lose their lives. And I still really have not fully processed it."

Sturgis legt verder uit, "But if you do not disconnect, you can't do your job effectively. So, it is the kind of depression where you don't feel anything at all, and you turn your emotions off. There was a point where they had psychologists visiting us on the unit to talk about our feelings. But it was like, 'I don't have time for this right now. I need to hang the next bag of x/y/z medication and keep this person alive. Get back to me in a year after this is all over.' I think a lot of health care workers are also going to have PTSD or depression from what we went through. I hit a bit of writer's block as a result of my mental state, and this song was a bit cathartic for me." 

Wat betreft de toekomstplannen van Conquer Divide, biedt Sturgis de volgende update: "We've all grown so much since our first record. We did a lot of introspection and soul-searching about which creative direction to take the band in next, and we can't wait to share what we've been working on. There will be something for everyone on our sophomore album."

De band blijft hard aan het werk met de 2x Grammy-genomineerde producer Tyler Smyth (Falling in Reverse, I Prevail) en de 4x RIAA-gecertificeerde Gold producer Joey Sturgis (Asking Alexandria, The Devil Wears Prada, Of Mice & Men).
Conquer Divide werkte onlangs ook samen met Electric Callboy aan de single 'Fckboi'. Bekijk de video hier. Het nummer staat al op meer dan 10 miljoen streams wereldwijd, terwijl hun stand-alone nummer "Atonement" op 2,5 miljoen streams wereldwijd staat.

CONQUER DIVIDE ARE:
 Kiarely Castillo — Clean Vocals
Janel Duarte — Vocals + Bass  
Kristen Sturgis — Guitar
 Izzy Johnson  — Guitar
 Samantha Landa — Drums

Conquer Divide Online:
https://conquerdivideofficial.com/
https://www.facebook.com/ConquerDivideUSA
https://twitter.com/conquerdivide
https://www.instagram.com/conquerdivide/

NEW SINGLE ‘ON MY WAY’ FROM CARLOS CAMILO FEAT. DAVID MARGAN

«On My Way» is a composition by pianist Carlos Camilo that was presented on February 14, 2021 on his self-titled album «On My Way» and now the Miami composer, one of the most important Latin artists of Contemporary Jazz, returns with this elegant new production with the collaboration of Spanish guitarist David Margam who gives this sound journey a special sensitivity with elegant and subtle guitar arrangements.

«On My Way» represents and describes the sensations of embarking on a path towards a correct destination. The album itself describes a musical journey where feelings of life are expressed when we face new challenges and dreams to achieve. Carlos Camilo proposes in this composition a melody of faith and motivation to move forward without fear of failure with a positive look towards a path of hope and optimism.

www.carloscamilo.com

drfunkproducciones.com

SOUL-JAZZ SAXOPHONIST MERLON DEVINE EAGER TO STIR THINGS UP

“Stirred,” the latest single from his “Soul Jazz” album, goes for playlist adds on October 24.

WASHINGTON (19 October 2022): Gifts. Talents. Blessings. All to serve a specific purpose that serves others. And they are to be utilized fully to fulfill that function. That’s how soul-jazz saxophonist Merlon Devine sees it, using his to write and record contemporary jazz that is church derived. His new upbeat instrumental R&B single “Stirred” goes for playlist adds on October 24.

“I believe everyone has a gift. Every person on earth has something they were given - from God - to help them fulfill their purpose while on earth. There’s a scripture in the Bible that talks about each person ‘stirring’ their gift. In other words, your gift should not collect dust, but each person should make sure they keep their gift sharp and in use. I feel we are most effective and happy when we use the gift we’ve been given,” said Devine about the feel-good song he wrote with producer Matt Godina (Darren Rahn, Julian Vaughn, Nicholas Cole, Lin Rountree).

“Stirred” is the third single from Devine’s eighth album, “Soul Jazz,” which dropped last year. Emoting passion, inspiration and grace, Devine plays saxes and flute on the track. Godina adds keyboards, guitar and programming to the ebullient harmonies. The midtempo groove is anchored by bassist Kevin “Mr. Kevin Jerome” Stancil and drummer Lester Estelle, Jr.

It’s natural for Devine to turn to his faith when it comes to composing music. Born in Little Rock, Arkansas to parents who pastored a church, the household was always filled with music, primarily gospel. While Devine’s nine siblings could all sing, he found his voice via saxophone. Church informed his spirituality, but discovering contemporary jazz informed his music. From Jesus and the Apostles to Groover Washington, Jr., Najee, George Howard, Kirk Whalum and other saxophone greats, Devine found a creative path for his artistic expression to incorporate both pillars in his life.  

“My love for contemporary jazz grew as I grew as a player. Listening to these saxophonists, mixed with the soulful and heartfelt riffs I was hearing at church, shaped me into what I am today. When I started writing songs, it was contemporary jazz. It evolved into a wonderful opportunity for me to provide churches with instrumental music in the style of contemporary jazz during sacred worship gatherings. I consider myself a contemporary jazz ambassador to the church,” said Devine who lives with his family just outside of Washington, DC.

As “Stirred” arrives, hopefully motivating listeners to put their gift to work, Devine continues his musical ministry this month at the following concert dates:

October 22                   Grand Opening Event                           Waldorf, MD

October 23                   Crossover Church                                 Hyattsville, MD

October 30                   First Baptist Church                              N. Brentwood, MD

For more information, please visit https://merlondevine.com.

DARRYL ANDERS AGAPE SOUL – ‘BREATHLESS’

 Agape Soul Records

Bass player/composer/producer Darryl Anders is back with "Breathless", a follow up to his excellent single "Nobody But You" which featured Maysa on vocals. This time around the ultra-talented San Francisco Bay Area singer/songwriter Zoe Ellis handles the lead vocals (adding b.g vocals and co-writer credits too), on what I think is a very fresh format-friendly song, which I loved from the first time I heard it. 

PAMELA WILLIAMS – ‘STONE COLD’

Saxtress Entertainment

The Saxtress is back with another compelling song with a great vibe.  Pamela produced the song, and co-wrote it.  She already got two early adds this week, and looks to have a real winner here, following up her previous single which hit #1 Billboard ("Serendipity").

URBAN-JAZZ HARPIST MARIEA ANTOINETTE IS “SO AMAZING”

Her exquisite interpretation of the Luther Vandross classic is collecting playlist adds and airplay.

SAN DIEGO (18 October 2022): It was a million-dollar wedding and the bride-to-be commissioned urban-jazz harpist Mariea Antoinette to play her down the aisle. As she pondered what to perform, Antoinette came upon the Luther Vandross classic “So Amazing” and the bride loved it. Antoinette teamed with longtime producer Allan Phillips to craft a beautiful and soulful arrangement for the occasion. When the bride arrived at the altar, spontaneous applause broke out. Encouraged by the reaction, Antoinette decided to record the rendition as a single. Her sublime “So Amazing” just dropped and is presently receiving more than one hundred spins per week from dozens of radio outlets, including SiriusXM’s Watercolors.

“So Amazing” continues Antoinette’s mission of placing the harp in unexpected settings, proving that the ancient stringed instrument has soul and can groove. With Antoinette dexterously playing delicate notes and strumming mellifluous harmonies, the single is illumined by lush orchestration provided by string and horn sections, including violins, violas, cello, trumpet, saxophone, flute, trombone and celestial background vocals. Phillips’s keyboards and percussion anchors the track flanked by guitarist Evan Marks, bassist Nathan Brown and drummer Tiki Pasillas.

“This wedding was for a bride who has everything. In speaking with her about song selection for the ceremony, she wanted an R&B song that was powerful. She indicated that she loved Luther Vandross, Kem and a host of other R&B singers so I started looking through their catalogs. When I heard Luther's ‘So Amazing,’ I knew that was the one. The song lends itself to the harp,” said Antoinette who remains a fan of Vandross and was inspired after seeing him perform.

“I've been to three of Luther’s concerts. He was/is ‘so amazing.’ I loved his style, professionalism and stage presence. Seeing Luther’s shows was a master class in performance.”

“So Amazing” will serve as the title track of Antoinette’s fourth album, which she anticipates releasing next spring, perfectly timed for wedding season. In December, she’ll shoot her first PBS special with her band and a string section at The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills, which will be titled “An Intimate Evening with Mariea Antoinette.”

Antoinette is an award-winning artist who performed for President Barack and Michelle Obama, shared the stage with Ne-Yo at the BET Awards, toured extensively with Jazz in Pink, and has served as principal harpist for the Los Angeles Southeast Symphony Orchestra. She’s had records that hit Billboard’s top five, paving the way to performances at major jazz festivals and events, including Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival, Capital Jazz Fest and the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame Awards. Antoinette has won honors from the Black Women in Jazz and the Arts, a Black Music Award, and a San Diego Prestige Award for best instrumentalist. Her activism includes partnering with Daughters Lives Matter, a nonprofit organization stressing the importance of healthy father-daughter relationships and positive imagery.        

For more information, please visit https://marieaantoinette.com.

SUNKING - 'SMUG' – NEW ALBUM BY INDIE JAZZ ALCHEMISTS AND MEMBERS OF SEATTLE COLLECTIVE HIGH PULP

sunking : photo by Will Matsuda

sunking
SMUG

new album
out 18.11.22
(ANTI-)

pre-order/save
sunking.ffm.to/smug

includes the single
BAD HABITS
audio/visualiser
youtu.be/Dq1vNp93IkM
GLITCH/SPY
audio/visualiser
youtu.be/ymlsIUTn8xQ

Featuring two members of the Seattle-based collective High Pulp, sunking are indie jazz alchemists who incorporate indie-rock, electronic and hip-hop elements into a jazz framework. For fans of BADBADNOTGOOD and Flying Lotus.

“There are elements of jazz, indie-rock, hip-hop and electronic music, but ultimately sunking is all about exploring the nooks and crannies between those genres, about throwing out all of the rules and expectations in search of something completely fresh and original,” says drummer Bobby Granfelt.

A duo comprised of Granfelt and keyboardist Antoine Martel, sunking have today announced an 18th November release date for ‘Smug’, their second album but first with ANTI- Records. The groundwork for the album is drawn from a series of freewheeling, lo-fi drum sessions while the horn and keyboard-fuelled arrangements on top are part of a vision for the band’s sound that has been evolving ever since the release of their self-titled debut in 2019.

The band have also made the album tracks ‘Bad Habits’ and ‘Glitch/Spy’ available as a single today to coincide with the album announcement. This follows the September release of ‘My Mind Is An Oven’ and ‘Uncle Kane’.
  
Commitment is the name of the game for Granfelt and Martel, who first bonded over a shared love of progressive jazz, punk, shoegaze and underground electronic music while still in high school. Over the years, the powerhouse drummer and keyboard wizard would collaborate in a variety of configurations, most notably as members of the sprawling Seattle collective High Pulp, who have gained a cult worldwide following.

High Pulp earned rave reviews in several UK publications for their recent ‘Pursuit Of Ends’ album, with The Times comparing them to Snarky Puppy in showing that “disparate influences can combine if a unifying spirit is behind it. Here it’s the brilliant drummer Bobby Granfelt.” Elsewhere, Jazzwise praised its “melding of Miles’ 1970s fusion experiments with rich Ellingtonian orchestrated majesty and non-jazz elements taken from the likes of Aphex Twin and My Bloody Valentine,” while Prog summarised it as “the epitome of cool modern jazz with depth and complexity,” and Record Collector described it as “organic, marinating fusion, new wave and R&B with spiritual jazz into a quixotic brew.”

However, sunking has always remained distinct from any of the pair’s other projects, in large part because it has always remained just the two of them. “There is a bit more of a loose, shoot-from-the-hip approach that we are comfortable taking as a duo,” explains Granfelt. “I’ve always loved music that was rough around the edges - Alex G, Guided by Voices, Modest Mouse - and we don’t shy away from that kind of grit. We’ll just throw up a couple of microphones and start recording anywhere: a studio, a bedroom, a moving vehicle, it doesn’t matter.”

“We have a bit of a telepathic thing going on where we don’t even need to speak to communicate at this point, either” adds Martel. “With sunking, there are fewer filters between us and the music.”


BANDCAMP  |  INSTAGRAM

JAZZ SINGER-SONGWRITER SAMANTHA FIERKE’S MESMERIZING ‘MIRAGE’ IS A JOURNEY TO SELF-DISCOVERY

The debut album that gains national release on November 18 is receiving Grammy consideration in five categories.

BOSTON (17 October 2022): So much of jazz singer-songwriter Samantha Fierke’s world was not as it appeared as they worked on their debut album in the midst of the pandemic. Still a teenager at the time, Fierke had not yet been diagnosed as autistic and was “finding their place in the world through their queer identity,” all while fear, economic uncertainty and civil unrest gripped the US. Writing poignantly about the contrasting feelings of hope and despair amidst chaos and turmoil, Fierke composed the resonant lyrics to the arresting “Mirage,” the title track to the acoustic jazz vocal album produced by Loyd Warden receiving its national release on November 18.     

When they began crafting “Mirage” in 2020, Fierke had deferred their first year at Berklee College of Music and also had to push back recording the album due to pandemic restrictions. The delay afforded Fierke’s music time to mature, songs that explore the pain they endured while masking their autism in an abusive relationship; fantasizing romantically about a woman; express the rage and power of their generation in response to the politics of our times; the pain and anger of betrayal; and emerging from darkness with hopeful anticipation.

As restrictions eased last year, Fierke entered bassist Mickey Jamieson’s home studio in Columbia, Missouri where they recorded live accompanied by a trio comprised of Jamieson, keyboardist Samuel Luetkemeyer, and Warden on drums and percussion.

Taking stunning command of the mic to sing and scat like a seasoned and skilled veteran, the eight songs on “Mirage” pour from the twenty-year-old singer’s being rife with raw emotion, intimacy, intensity and brazen authenticity. Despite difficult and deeply personal subject matters, Fierke shares their poetic narratives while peeling back the protective layers. Their voice never waivers, exhibiting astonishing beauty, poise, strength and grace amidst the embers of heartache and glimmering rays of optimism. Working with melodies and rhythms constructed from jazz, fusion, global folk, funk and sophisticated pop, sonically the tracks on “Mirage” are artfully assembled, sparsely rendered tapestries that provide dramatic shading, sensual grooves and moody melodic enhancements illuminating Fierke’s tales.

“Mirage” opens with a tribute to Chick Corea on the astutely rhythmic “Kick It Loose.”

“Chick died as I was still writing it and immediately, I knew it was for him.  It is a song for the musician’s soul, to remind us that we are not simply a commodity to be bought and sold. Music is not between audience and performer, but among a communal group,” said Fierke who released a five-song EP of standards in 2018 titled “Sam.”

While there’s a touch of whimsy on the swinging “I Remember Butterflies,” the lyric reveals lost innocence.

“My childhood was outdoorsy and playful, thanks to my mom and her garden. I recently noticed that the swarms of butterflies that used to greet me every summer are now down to one or two pairs of wings at a time. It is a mourning.”

Jamieson literally got down on his hands and knees to record the sound of water droplets to provide interesting percussive texturization on “Shower Song.”

Fierke explains, “Sometimes life - or some sour soul - hits you like a brick with so much force that all you can do is let the water wash it away until you are well again. I wrote this to process the pain and anger handed to me by someone I called a friend.”

The journey of self-discovery became very real for Fierke a little over a year ago when they finally received their autism diagnosis. Five years earlier, they began writing the lyrics to “Color Me,” even without knowing what they were fully about.

“They were the heartbroken words from a young me drowning to change myself, mask myself, in desperation that the abuse I was receiving in a relationship would stop. The song is not as cheery as it seems and that is precisely the point,” Fierke said about the track that was issued last spring as a “teaser single.”

“My autism was harder to identify at first due to my ADHD, which can sometimes make the behaviors look different via opposite extremes competing for exposure. When I received my diagnosis, all the sudden my life and all my experiences made sense. Putting the pieces together was extremely liberating in some ways, but it also revealed a lot of deep pain and heartache that I’ve experienced due to being autistic. And it hurt to realize that if I had supports in place all along, I may have lived a very different life and avoided a lot of trauma.”

The haunting and unsettling “Mirage” is the session’s centerpiece. The track varies in tone and tempo, propelling the experience along.

“When I began writing ‘Mirage,’ it became clear how heavy it was. This song wrote itself and I simply uncovered it. I cannot explain it properly other than to describe it as desperation and perseverance. In the process, I saw my songwriting solidify into something that felt more authentic and sacred to me than anything I had ever written. Though the words were simply revealing themselves to me without much literal understanding on my part, I knew what it was about. I knew the feeling of the mirage. It is a reflection on the desperation to hold onto hope. It is a timeless feeling but writing it during this momentary ‘falling apart of our world’ felt so heavy. The song speaks of a journey through a desert that seems to never end even as the lyrics beg to keep going. It is simultaneous hope and despair. Once I felt how this song lingered in my stomach, I began to build an album around it — some old and some new tunes, but all my own songs. Even still, I’m connecting the dots that my intuition already put together, linking all the songs together back to the center of ‘Mirage.’”  

The amorous “Sweet Girl” finds Fierke daydreaming about a queer romance.

“It was a peaceful image in my mind come to life through song written with a heart full of love by a young queer soul. It is a fantasy of peaceful feminine domesticity. Nothing close to what I was told of domesticity. It is a painting of queer love with no distinct names or faces,” said Fierke who identifies as bisexual and gender queer.

“When People Speak” has roots dating back to 2016, which Fierke wrote in response to the emerging political climate of the time that continues to this day. 

“This song grew and festered in me, built out of rage and power with hope for what could be. It is the overwhelm our generation is far too used to. It wasn’t intrinsically political, but it was definitely a reflection on what it felt like in the world at the time. Still feels similar. It’s just four chords, but it’s an immensely complex and intimate song. It takes so much trust to play it the way it’s meant to be,” said Fierke.

The set closes with “Smile Again,” a lilting groove anchored by Luetkemeyer’s nimble keys. Conceived while vacationing on a goat farm with her lover, Fierke wrote as he slept.

“My partner deals with a lot of really intense mental health issues and sometimes my role is to see the hope that he’s struggling to find. The song is more about celebrating the inevitability of happiness. It’s not explicitly for or about him, but he’s the biggest influence, especially in the later verses,” Fierke shared.

During the “Mirage” recording and arranging process, Fierke received guidance from Grammy nominated jazz vocalists Gretchen Parlato, Jane Monheit and Oleta Adams as well as Grammy winner Taylor Eigsti, mentors and role models who have taken an interest in the promising singer-songwriter. Last June, Fierke finally shared the album in two cities: their hometown (Columbia, MO) and Boston where they’re now a college sophomore. Another Grammy winner, Brother Paul Brown (The Waterboys), got hold of the collection and submitted the album for Grammy consideration in five categories (Jazz Vocal Album, Producer of the Year, Non-Classical, Album of the Year; Arrangement, Instruments and Vocals; and Best New Artist). Encouraged by the buzz and critical acclaim in Fierke’s two homebases that was growing organically, a plan came together to take “Mirage” national.

Two days after “Mirage” drops, Fierke will perform at The Jungle near Boston on November 20.

“Mirage” contains the following songs:

“Kick It Loose”

“I Remember Butterflies”

“Shower Song”

“Color Me”

“Mirage” (Mickey music with)

“Sweet Girl” (Loyd music with)

“When People Speak”

“Smile Again”

For more information, please visit https://samdoesjazz.com. 

NEW SINGLE BY KARLOS EDWARDS - 'WITH YOU'

“A true masterpiece performed, produced, and sung by the multi-instrumentalist Karlos Edwards entitled ‘With You’. The song includes a spectacular special guest vocal performance by the beautiful Elle Cato. Not forgetting the talented Bryan Corbett on the trumpet/flugelhorn, all of whom can be seen in the music video which will be released simultaneously with the song in all stores and media platforms. All three deliver an exceptional display of pure skill which appears to be on a warm, smooth summer Soul-Jazz vibe that was filmed on hot Sunday evening in a recording studio near the central city of Birmingham, UK. Make way for another carefully selected superior release on the prestigious forever growing Digital Jukebox Records label and enjoy the wonderful sounds of the talented artist, Mr Karlos Edwards.”

Catalogue ID : DJ0116  - UPC : 829282000887

Release Format: Album - Territory : Worldwide

P-Line / C-Line : 2022 Digital Jukebox Records

Availability : ITunes, Amazon, EMusic, Worldwide

Publishing : Digital Jukebox Recordings/ASCAP

Distributed by Sony Music/The Orchard USA

Facebook - www.facebook.com/KarlosEdwardsOfficial/

YouTube - www.youtube.com/user/KarlosEdwardsVEVO/

Twitter - www.twitter.com/KarlosEdwardsUK/

Instagram - www.instagram.com/KarlosEdwardsOfficial/

Official Website - www.KarlosEdwards.com

Song, Written, Performed, Produced & Arranged by Karlos Edwards

Guest Performance includes Elle Cato (Vocals), Bryan Corbett (Trumpet/Flugelhorn)

Executive Producer : M.Duffus (Digital Jukebox Records)

Video Directed & Edited by M.Duffus

Camera Man : P.Ward & M.Duffus

Video Recording Location : Birmingham, United Kingdom, Hollick & Taylor / Grosvenor Road Studios (Home of the creators of Thunderbirds, Slade, Jasper Carrott and more)

(C) 2022 Digital Jukebox Records.

NEO SOUL SINGER-SONGWRITER REBECCA JADE SHOWS A “TOTAL GODDESS VIBE” ON “A SHADE OF JADE”

The album released 10/14/22 as “Show Me” hits Billboard’s New and Active singles chart.

SAN DIEGO (14 October 2022): For years, she’s been performing with the likes of Sheila E., Sir Elton John and at jazz festivals throughout the world, but never before has neo soul vocalist Rebecca Jade recorded a collection of her own songs until now. The ten-track “A Shade of Jade” dropped Friday, which Jade coproduced with keyboardist and frequent songwriting partner Carnell Harrell (Boney James, Andra Day). The LadyJade Music release arrived as Jade’s “Show Me,” a vintage R&B cut driven by a hard-hitting hip hop beat, layers of sophisticated vocal tracks and modern jazz nuances, is among Billboard’s New and Active singles.

Always a singer, Jade didn’t consider herself a songwriter although she had written lyrics and poetry in an ever-present notebook that she carried for years. But she didn’t have the confidence to share or fully explore that side of her artistry. Teaming with Harrell changed that. Finally opening up the pages containing intimate thoughts, feelings, reflections and experiences, Jade turned those journaled writings into resonant lyrics, often composing vibrant melodies for songs that deftly incorporate R&B, jazz, hip hop and pop. Anchoring the aural alchemy illumined by lush harmonies and soul-powered grooves is Jade’s richly expressive voice, commandingly delivering substantive stories of hope, inspiration and romantic ardor. Her lyrics empower strength, courage and fortitude; get vulnerable and fantasize about unabashed love; and relish life with a full and grateful heart.           

As Jade worked on “A Shade of Jade,” with Harrell on keyboards, Kyle Bolden on guitar, Raymond McKinley on bass, Charles Streeter Sr. on drums, and saxophonist Eric Darius making a guest appearance to solo on “Bottle Up Magic,” she teased the album by releasing a video for the motivational “What’s It Gonna Be,” which won two statues at this year’s San Diego Music Awards. The former division one college basketball player who earned a full athletic scholarship to UC Berkeley appears in the hoop-themed video that has amassed 127,000 views to date (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N8MrEOyjXQA).

The San Diego-based artist has sold out concerts previewing “A Shade of Jade” in her hometown and near Los Angeles and performed last week at the Barbados Jazz Excursion. This holiday season, Jade will be trekking across the U.S. with saxophone star Dave Koz (who is featured soloing on “My Reason”), performing at his 25th annual Christmas tour that also features genre luminaries Rick Braun, Peter White and Keiko Matsui.

Although Jade’s album just arrived, early reviews are singing the singer’s praises.

“Rebecca Jade is the most powerful and versatile vocalist I have heard in years…Jade’s voice is an intoxicating instrument and an addictive one at that…Jade is the complete package: power, soul, and finesse.” – San Diego Troubadour  

“Listen up real close, and you’ll hear an ingénue aspiring to true, original greatness, wrapped up in faultless, luxe vocals, dripping with and dropping casual, causal, in-depth bombs, all while cushioned in a total goddess vibe.” – Carol Banks Weber/Coggie Ink

“An extremely tight, hugely soulful collection that has the potential to take Jade anywhere she wants to go.” – Smooth Jazz Therapy

For more information, please visit www.rebeccajade.com. 

NEW SINGLE ‘NEW BOSSA’ FROM LES SABLER

New Vista Records

Mr. Sabler is back with a really smooth and flowing song which features his tasty guitar work.  Produced by Paul Brown, this song feels like another winner to follow up his Top 10 Billboard single last year ("Esselle's Dance").

JOSEPHINE ONIYAMA - 'KINDRED' – NEW ALBUM BY SOULFUL BRITISH SINGER-SONGWRITER OUT 04.11.22

JOSEPHINE ONIYAMA
KINDRED

new album
out 04.11.22
(Sound Of Solar Records)

pre-order/save
orcd.co/jokindred

includes the singles
TEARS WILL NEVER BE MINE  /  HUMAN  /  BURN & KINDRED

Manchester raised but now Liverpool based soulful singer-songwriter Josephine Oniyama has released the singles ‘Tears Will Never Be Mine’, ‘Human’ and ‘Burn’ in recent months. These have reintroduced her to fans after a period out of the spotlight and have received airplay on Radio 2, 6 Music, Absolute Radio, BBC Merseyside, BBC Manchester and BBC Ulster.

A fourth song entitled ‘Kindred’ is available now, with this latest being the title track of Oniyama's long-awaited new album, which is set for release on 4th November. She describes the focus of the record as being about "human connections, friendship, family, love and being strong through adversity. It’s about going on a journey together, sharing life with others and each of us striving to be the best we can be along the way.”

With its combination of electronic and acoustic elements, ‘Kindred’ also reflects Oniyama's exploration of diverse sounds in recent years; a period in which she has not only listened to powerful female artists such as Grace Jones, Lana Del Rey, Joanna Newsome and Alison Krauss, but has also rediscovered earlier influences like Ali Farka Touré, Bob Marley, Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Joni Mitchell and Bob Dylan, all of whom had been inspirations when learning guitar in her teens.

KINDRED
TRACKLISTING
1  Act Like You’re In Love
2  Tears Will Never Be Mine  AUDIO
3  Kindred  AUDIO
4  ’Til You
5  Superheroes
6  Sanctuary
7  Human  AUDIO
8  Every Second
9  Break Free
10  Burn  AUDIO

‘Kindred’ appears a full decade after ‘Portrait’, Oniyama’s second album and a record that was issued to stunning reviews. Praised for its fusion of folk, soul and jazz, songs from it were A-listed at BBC Radio 2 and playlisted on 6 Music, XFM and Jazz FM. Oniyama also performed on Later With Jools Holland HERE, The Andrew Marr Show, Saturday Night Live (Ireland) and a number of mainland European TV shows. Two headlining tours were further backed up with sets at major festivals (Glastonbury, Latitude, T In The Park, Electric Picnic) and support slots with Paloma Faith, Madeleine Peyroux, Michael Kiwanuka and Paolo Nutini.

Oniyama’s talent was recognised by a diverse selection of her peers, leading to collaborations in the mid-2010’s with Travis (with whom she recorded the song ‘Idlewild’) and jazz producer/trumpeter Matthew Halsall (she co-wrote three songs for his acclaimed ‘Into Forever’ album). More recently, she was commissioned to create two live scores for the launch of HOME, the Manchester international contemporary arts centre; 'Celluloid History Songs’ was a set of new songs written to accompany silent footage from the North West Film Archive, while the centenary of the classic occult documentary ‘Haxan: Witchcraft Through The Ages’ was given an ambitious new score by Oniyama and students from the University of Salford. Fusing song-based and electro-acoustic sounds, these projects further expanded her creative ideas and skills as a songwriter, arranger and sound artist.

Oniyama has also spent time earning an MA degree in English and became a mother while writing and recording ‘Kindred'.

PORTRAIT
REVIEWS

"A versatile and substantial new talent“ MOJO
“An original, unfolding talent“ UNCUT
“Wonderful, uplifting, euphoric soulful gems“ SUNDAY TIMES
“Her voice is fabulous and different“ EVENING STANDARD
“Stunning newcomer“ SUN
“Striking talent“ MIRROR
“A timeless, distinctive and soulful voice” MUSIC WEEK

josephineoniyama.com
Josephine Oniyama - further info & social media

MEL HOLDER BRINGS ‘WAKE UP’

"Wake Up" is the new single from the Mel Holder album, Phenomenal – Music Book Volume IV. Mel Holder's last album Magnificent - Music Book Volume III was a top entry for both Billboard Gospel and Contemporary Jazz 2020 charts.

The illustrious multi-talented Grammy, Stellar, and Dove Award-nominated artist, composer, arranger, saxophonist, author and pastor Mel Holder has recorded 6 albums thus far in a meritorious 25-year musical career. His unparalleled perseverance and dedication to his craft are attributed to his Christ-centered lifestyle.

Even in the mist of the current pandemic, there has been no slow down, Mel has authored a new book The New Normal which is a must read as it chronicles the current Covid-19 era with positive and informative life lessons to navigate in the new normal. The studio has never been a stranger to Mel as he used his time of social distancing to pen his upcoming album "PHENOMENAL"

Melodies of Christmas and Melodies of Resurrection are Mel Holder's recent television productions which were aired on several major networks internationally such as Word Network and The Now Network.

MAGNIFICENT, Mel's trailblazing album release hit number one on Billboard's Contemporary Jazz Chart twice in 2019 and closed out the Billboard's Year End Chart at number 2. While simultaneously closing out the year at 54 on the Top Gospel Album Chart while maintaining spots in the top twenty throughout the year.

Born in Brooklyn NY of Panamanian decent, Mel's life became a testimony in the making from an early age. At the tender age of eight years old, Mel was hindered from being able to fully participate in all of life's youthful activities due to asthma. To many, this impediment might have been a stumbling block; however, Mel used this as a stepping stone to ignite his interest in music. Beyond all odds to utilize his respiratory system to play a wind instrument, Mel became a focused, relentless warrior through that challenge and used his newfound musical ability to defeat any notions of limitation. Mel’s commitment to answering this call on his life gave birth to his ministry.

"Wake Up"

Written Mel Holder (Mel Holder Music, SESAC)

Produced by Mel Holder

Mixed by John Palmer

Soprano, Alto, Tenor & Baritone Saxophones, Keyboards: Mel Holder

Guitar: JJ Sanservino

Keyboards: Joel Deroches

Trumpet: & Trombone: Kirk Brown

Trumpet: Vitaly Golovenev

JASON JACKSON FEAT. GINO ROSARIA IS ‘WORKIN’ IT OUT’

Saxophonist and Billboard top 20 artist Jason Jackson is All In with the release of his newest project. This 8 track album is packed with ear catching melodies, grooves that won't quit, and collaborations with veteran contemporary jazz greats as well as the genre's newest rising stars. All In, produced by 14 time #1 artist/producer Adam Hawley is the follow up to Jason's debut offering, hit EP Movin' On (also produced by Hawley) and features appearances by Jason'sold friend, teacher, and mentor Eric Merienthal as well. assome new friends: Gino Roasria, Jonathan Fritzen, Chieli Minucci, and Mr. Talkbox. After just one listen, you'll agree that All In is the person combination of "Groove and Smooth".

The first radio single from the record is "Workin It Out": a feel good, high energy anthem that's sure to lift your spirits every time you hear it. This track is elevated even further by the addition of Gino Rosaria's piano, which when paired with the sax, creates unforgettable melodies and a groove impossible not to nod your head to.

Jason, a native. of Wilmington, NC proudly served 10 years in the U.S. navy as musician where he was able to not only perform for audiences all around the world, but meet and make friends with people from many different cultures and backgrounds. It was from these experiences that he truly realized that music was the universal language and where he adopted his musical mantra of "Groove Supersedes All".

CANDY DULFER FEAT. NILE RODGERS WITH ‘CONVERGENCY’

Give the people an invigorating beat, some swanky sax uplift, and watch the pain melt away. That’s the funky stuff Prince’s former top-choice sax player Candy Dulfer and her band specialize in. The groovin’ Dutch singer-songwriter and saxophonist’s latest album, the aptly titled We Never Stop, is a party platter of stanky jams, silken R&B, jazz, and pop-funk. The good times kick off with the single “Jammin’ Tonight” and the very radio friendly “Convergency,” both featuring special guest, Chic guitarist, producer, songwriter, and three-time Grammy Award-winner Nile Rodgers. We Never Stop is a triumph in the wake of the global pandemic and worldwide racial unrest.  

“This is a personal album—it’s personal for everyone because we are struggling with many of the same things,” Candy shares. “The main spirit of this music is to elevate. It feels like it’s never been more important to not wallow in the hurt and the pain in the world, and let that defeat us. That’s why I called this album, We Never Stop.”

Candy is a solo artist, a songwriter, an in-demand instrumentalist, and a co-writer and collaborator who has worked with some of the biggest names in modern music, including Van Morrison, Maceo Parker, Sheila E., Mavis Staples, Lionel Richie, Beyoncé, Pink Floyd, Chaka Khan, Aretha Franklin, and Prince, among many others. She first rose to fame with her high-profile collaboration with Dave Stewart on the worldwide number 1 smash “Lily Was Here.” 

Her tenure with Prince may be best remembered by his tongue-in-cheek recommendation in the “Partyman” video: “When I want sax, I call Candy.” Their collaboration continued over the years with many studio sessions, TV show appearances, award show performances, including the Grammy Awards, and concert tours around the globe, including Candy joining Prince’s NPG band as a permanent member for his record-shattering Musicology tour and album.  

In addition to her superstar collaborations, Candy is a serious lifelong musician with a robust history as a solo artist releasing albums and touring the world for over 35 years. Since her Grammy-nominated debut, 1990’s Saxuality, Candy has issued 12 studio albums. The combined world-wide sales of her solo albums top 2.5 million copies, and she has had several number 1 hits in the USA. In between her solo albums and her high-profile collaborations, Candy still manages to join Dutch female supergroup the Ladies of Soul for their annual sold-out concerts at the massive Amsterdam Ziggo Dome; she is a headline performer on Smooth Jazz Cruises in the USA and Europe; she is an ambassador for the Dutch ALS Foundation; and Candy was a judge on the Dutch version of X Factor.  

Candy soaked up music and life lessons from her father, and the iconic musicians he worked with, but Candy also boldly discovered her own voice as a songwriter and an instrumentalist, finding a home in contemporary jazz and pop-funk. She has worked hard to become an artist on her own terms, inspired by the likes of David Sanborn, Steps Ahead, Marcus Miller, Michael Brecker, Maceo Parker, Cannonball Adderley, writer, producer and percussionist Sheila E., and Janet Jackson. “I want to be Janet Jackson with a saxophone entertaining and musically giving,” Candy says.  

Legendary Chic guitarist Nile Rodgers (Madonna, David Bowie, Daft Punk, Lady Gaga) appears on the singles “Jammin' Tonight” and “Convergency.” “Jammin' Tonight,” is a bold injection of party pop-funk with a slick jazz overlay that recalls Niles’ 1970s “Good Times” finery. Here, Candy blows some euphoric jazz-tinged solos, and you can hear pain and struggle melt away in her lyrical virtuosity. The album’s title track funks in the face of adversity. It’s Candy’s salute to all the musicians who have had their livelihoods leveled in the wake of the pandemic—this is a funky as hell anthem of resilience. “Convergency” is a dizzyingly romantic R&B instrumental ballad with jeweled melodic sax work.  

After three decades of superstar collaborations and world tours, and chart-topping and high-selling solo career releases, Candy is living proof of the title of her latest album, We Never Stop. Nothing gets in the way of her making funky stuff. Today, her determination and passion remain, but her motivations are different. “These days, I play music to, hopefully, inspire younger people. When I was 12, I didn’t have many female saxophonists to look up to, and I want to be that person for the next generation of musicians,” she says.

R&B SINGER-SONGWRITER JOYCE SIMS OVERLEDEN

Gezien mij recente vakantie, meld ik jullie met enige vertraging dat R&B-singer-songwriter Joyce Sims op 15 oktober jl. op 63-jarige leeftijd is overleden.

Sims was vooral bekend van haar hit 'Come Into My Life', die zowel in het VK als in de VS de top 10 van hitlijsten bereikte. Haar eerste hit, 'All And All', bereikte nummer zes in de Amerikaanse dance-hitlijst en kwam in de top 20 van de Britse singles-hitlijst.

De dood van Sim werd op sociale media bevestigd door familieleden, hoewel er geen doodsoorzaak werd gegeven.

Een van de zussen van Sims, Annette Ramsey, schreef op sociale media: "mijn hart is gebroken" en schreef op Facebook: "Ik zal altijd de gelukkige tijden herinneren die we hebben gedeeld, de liefde en steun die je me hebt gegeven zal niet tevergeefs zijn . Ik hou van je grote zus RIP.”

Een andere van haar zussen, Debbie Sims Hall, beschreef de overleden zangeres als "een prachtige ziel van binnen en van buiten" die "echt zal worden gemist".

Evenementenorganisator CJ Carlos schreef op Facebook: “Na vanavond met haar directe familie te hebben gesproken, plaats ik met pijn in het hart dit nieuws dat Joyce Sims is overleden. Joyce was een geweldige singer-songwriter die zoveel hits had in de jaren 80.

“Zoals de meesten van jullie weten, zou ze in mei een van onze Amerikaanse artiesten in Portugal zijn. Mijn hart gaat uit naar haar partner Errol en hun kinderen en naaste familie.”

SARO COSENTINO - 'YOU ARE THE STORY (FEAT. TIM BOWNESS)' - VIDEO FOR SONG BY ITALIAN COMPOSER & PRODUCER

SARO COSENTINO
YOU ARE THE STORY
feat. TIM BOWNESS

from the album
THE ROAD TO NOW
LP / CD / digital
out 07.10.22
[Cat Sounds]

available HERE

The third solo album by Italian composer and producer Saro Cosentino, 'The Road To Now' features singers Peter Hammill (on four songs), Tim Bowness (of No-Man) and Karen Eden, plus instrumental contributions from the likes of Gavin Harrison, David Rhodes, John Giblin and Trey Gunn. Available on heavyweight colour vinyl, CD and digital formats, it is the long-awaited follow-up to 1997’s acclaimed ‘Ones And Zeros’.

Having issued a video in September for ‘The Joke’ (featuring Peter Hammill), Cosentino has made another available today for the album’s opening song, ‘You Are The Story’, which sees the soothing voice of Tim Bowness matched with a suitably sumptuous yet melancholic backdrop. Bowness, who has also recently issued his latest solo album, states that "'You Are The Story' was my second collaboration with Saro and it was written and recorded over twenty years since we’d first worked together in the late 1990s. As before, the writing luckily came very naturally.”

The new video was made by Maria Boutylina, an artist and photographer currently based in Prague, with the footage being shot mostly at night in various locations around the city. Cosentino himself also lives in Prague.

Born in Rome, Cosentino formed a blues outfit in his late teens but soon became more interested in experimental and electronic music, beginning a lengthy association with the popular Italian singer-songwriter Franco Battiato, who had been juggling his own love of the avant-garde with record company pressure to produce ‘hits’. The duo co-wrote Italy’s entry to the 1984 Eurovision Song Contest (which Battiato also performed) and collaborated on two operas later in the decade.

Cosentino released a self-titled debut solo album on EMI in 1988 prior to successfully dividing his time between composing film/TV soundtracks and writing for/producing numerous international artists that have included Peter Hammill, David Rhodes, Tim Bowness, Pandit Dinesh, Tony Levin, Natasha Atlas, Jakko Jakszyk and Gavin Harrison, as well as further work with Battiato plus other compatriots such as Milva and Alice.

'The Road To Now' was recorded in the UK and US as well as at Cosentino’s own studio in Prague, with final mixing taking place at Real World in Bath. The opening 'You’re The Story’ is followed by 'The Joke', the first of four songs featuring the unmistakable tones of legendary prog singer Peter Hammill. ‘November’ (on which Bowness provides a backing vocal) is a tale of long lost love, the outstanding 'Time To Go' contemplates the very end of the road (hopefully a long time from now), while the closing 'When Your Parents Danced' considers the first central figures in one’s life in their younger days, ‘before life’s stories made them what they’ve become’.

Having contributed to 'Ones and Zeros', as well as records by the likes of William Orbit and Chris Rea, the versatile Australian singer Karen Eden returns to perform on two contrasting tracks; the portentous sounding ‘Pray' and (by way of contrast to everything else on the record), the pop song 'Us (Scars on Skin)'. The album also contains the instrumental ‘Howl', which switches from strident to atmospheric midway through and showcases the skills of the musicians involved.

THE ROAD TO NOW
TRACKLISTING
1 You’re The Story (feat Tim Bowness)
2 The Joke (feat Peter Hammill)
3 Pray (feat Karen Eden)
4 November (feat Peter Hammill & Tim Bowness)
5 US (Scars on Skin) (feat Karen Eden)
6 Time To Go (feat Peter Hammill)
7 Howl
8 When Your Parents Danced (feat Peter Hammill)

MUSICIANS
Peter Hammill - vocals, guitar
Tim Bowness - vocals, backing vocals
Karen Eden - vocals
Dorota Barova - cello, vocals
Gavin Harrison - drums
John Giblin - bass
David Rhodes - guitar
Trey Gunn - waar guitar
Nicola Alesini - saxophone
Radim Knapp - trumpet
Saro Cosentino - guitars, keyboards, bass, strings, piano, arrangements, programming, sound design

sarocosentino.bandcamp.com

URBANUS KOMT MET NIEUWE PLAAT EN WERKT SAMEN MET KRUIM VAN DE BELPOP

Gisteren werd het nieuwste album van Urbanus, “In roer en rep”, aangekondigd in het legendarische Antwerpse comedycafé The Joker. Op het full-length studioalbum werkte Urbanus samen met het kruim van de Belpop.

Urbanus staat dit jaar 50 jaar op de planken en dat is lang geen reden om het rustig aan te doen, in tegendeel. Vorig jaar nog kwam er een biografie, in april startte zijn nieuwe theatertournee “Bis Bis Bis” en dit najaar komt er dus een nieuw volwaardig studio album uit: “In roer en rep”. Het is een studio album geworden en dus geen opname van een liveoptreden zoals Urbanus in verleden wel eens deed. Voor deze langspeler rekende Urbanus op verschillende topmuzikanten om zich muzikaal te laten begeleiden. Zo werkten onder andere Dirk Jans (De Mens) op drum en Jan Van Eyken (De Kreuners) op gitaar mee aan het album. Urbanus’ dochters Liesa en Marieke stonden in voor de backingvocals. Het ensemble nam in totaal negen nummers op, waarvan zeven nieuwe en twee herwerkingen van ouder werk. “Fillemon en Fillomeen” en “De wereld is om zeep” werden in een nieuw jasje gestoken. Dat laatste nummer kreeg zelf een Engelse vertaling met zich mee: “The world is after soap”. “Urbanusbroekgitaar” is de afsluiter van het album, verwijzend naar de gitaar die Urbanus cadeau kreeg van een fan. Die bouwde de typische Urbanus-broek uit de strips na en maakte er een elektrische gitaar van.

Ook de hoes is opnieuw vintage Urbanus, vol met eigen tekeningen die verwijzen naar de nummers op de plaat. Het album verschijnt begin december maar is nu al te vooruit te bestellen via comedyshows.be. De nieuwe langspeler komt er op zwarte vinyl en op gelimiteerde roze vinyl (slechts 500 stuks), alsook op CD.

Info: www.comedyshows.be of www.urbanus.be

“Ik sta 50 jaar op de planken en om dat te vieren, maakte ik nog eens een gaatje voor een nieuw plaatje.

URBANUS:  IN ROER EN REP

Plezier, protest en ontroering, het zit er allemaal in.

Urbanus”

JEFF RYAN – ‘WE CAN WORK IT OUT’

Woodward Avenue Records

Now acknowledged as a prominent core artist in the format, Jeff jumps into this musical joyride of the Beatles favorite with abandon.  Featuring a bold and energetic track (produced by Greg Manning), and with some quality vocals by Rebecca Jade, Jeff plays with a powerful force, showing his considerable talents in the process.  This well-known song's energy is sure to get your listener's attention.

TIFFANY BYNOE – ‘NEVER SAY NEVER’

CMORE5 Music Groupa

Tiffany is back with a silky smooth and very format-friendly vocal performance of this bossa nova flavored song.  With none other than Andy Snitzer adding some superb sax colors to the track, this has the feel of a song that could play well on a wide variety of stations.

INDIANA BLUES-ROCK BAND THE COLD STARES KONDIGEN NIEUW ALBUM ‘VOICES’ AAN!

Uit op 10 maart via Mascot Records / Mascot Label Group.
 
Pre-order/save ‘Voices’ HIER 

Vandaag heeft Indiana blues-rock band The Cold Stares hun nieuwe studio album 'Voices' aangekondigd, dat op 10 maart 2023 uitkomt via Mascot Records/Mascot Label Group. Het album is de meest volwassen, eclectische collectie van de band tot nu toe en is bijna volledig opgenomen in slechts twee dagen met producer/engineer/mixer Mark Needham (Taj Mahal, The Killers, Imagine Dragons, Walk the Moon, Fleetwood Mac). Deze aankondiging wordt gevierd met een officiële muziekvideo voor de lead single van het album, "The Joy”. De track behandelt het geluk dat gepaard gaat met het vinden van je ware soulmate.

“This song takes a step outside of our normal catalog and tackles the topic of finding happiness after heartache,” legt guitarist/vocalist Chris Tapp uit. “I think it will connect with those people that have overcome trials, and those who have survived toxic relationships and finally found happiness.”

De afgelopen tien jaar hebben The Cold Stares als duo onophoudelijk de wereld rond getoerd. Nu omarmt de band een heel nieuw soort chemie met de toevoeging van een derde bandlid, en vertolken zij op hun nieuwste album de ‘classic power trio sound’ waar ze mee zijn opgegroeid.  “The chains were off when we made this record,” zegt Tapp. “Suddenly, all the parameters that had dictated what we could and couldn’t do just disappeared and we were free to create whatever sound we wanted.”
 
Dat gevoel van totale artistieke bevrijding staat centraal op Voices, dat de kenmerkende mix van blues, Southern en hardrock van The Cold Stares naar nieuwe hoogten stuwt. Het zou gemakkelijk zijn geweest voor Tapp en drummer Brian Mullins om het volume hier gewoon aan te zwengelen. Echter, in plaats daarvan halen ze het beste uit de komst van bassist Bryce Klueh, door genuanceerder en avontuurlijker te worden in hun aanpak, en op zoek te gaan naar een rauw, ongepoetst geluid dat zowel vintage als modern aanvoelt. Tel het allemaal bij elkaar op en je hebt een gedurfde, filmische plaat die tegelijk eerlijk en opwindend is.
 
“A lot of these tunes deal with really personal things that have been on my mind for a while,” zegt Tapp. “I just had to live enough life and get enough experience under my belt to know how to talk about them, to know how to feel comfortable opening up those veins and sharing whatever came out.”
 
Eerder bracht de band al de twee nieuwe tracks “The Ghost” en “Nothing But The Blues” uit, waarin personages worden gevoed door even wanhopige verlangens naar hoop, een doel en naar troost. Thema’s die in het hele album naar voren komen.
 
“Nothing But The Blues is kind of a continuation of the theme of our song ‘Hard Times,’” voegt Tapp toe. “I was thinking about what it takes to play ‘authentic blues,’ which traditionally meant suffering through the horrors of the old south. In my mind, there are so many things that can definitely set you down in the blues in the current world we live in.”
 
The Cold Stares werd opgericht in 2012 toen de vrienden Tapp en Mullins besloten samen te werken voor een inval-optreden. Ze brachten een reeks veelgeprezen albums uit die ze op tournee bracht met artiesten als Larkin Poe, Rival Sons, Reignwolf, Spoon, Grand Funk Railroad, Thievery Corp, en vele anderen. American Songwriter prees de groep als “hard-won commitment, honesty, and intensity,” terwijl No Depression hun geluid omschreef als een “roots rocking firestorm,”. De nummers van hun albums doken overal op, van ESPN en TNT tot het populaire videospel Cyberpunk 2077.
 
Na het beëindigen van hun tournee voor 'Heavy Shoes' in 2021 (hun vijfde studioalbum en debuutrelease voor Mascot Records), keerden Tapp en Mullins terug naar hun thuisstad Evansville, Indiana. Het was tijd een beslissing te maken, want in de studio was de sound van de band steeds voller geworden. Tenzij ze op het podium wilden gaan meespelen met vooraf opgenomen backing tracks, bereikte ze het punt waarop ze niet meer in staat zouden zijn om hun nummers getrouw na te spelen als duo.
 
“We’d been a two-piece for a decade, so it wasn’t something we took lightly,” zegt Tapp. “But we’d also known Bryce for a long time and knew he’d fit right in.”

Tracklist

1. Nothing But The Blues
2. Come For Me
3. The Joy
4. Lights Out
5. Got No Right
6. Sorry I Was Late
7. Voices
8. Waiting On The Rain
9. Sinnerman
10. Throw That Stone
11. It’s Heavy
12. Thinking About Leaving Again
13. The Ghost
 

Available Formats:
LP, CD and Digital

The Cold Stares Online:
www.thecoldstares.com/ 
facebook.com/thecoldstares 
instagram.com/thecoldstares/ 
music.youtube.com/channel/UC3qnQAH-365p1QqVA8y-0_A 
twitter.com/thecoldstares 

JUSTIN KLUNK FT. DAVID BENOIT ON ‘THUNDER’

Saxophone recording artist Justin Klunk is one of the newer, rising faces of Smooth Jazz in Los Angeles, CA. Justin is both a recording and performing artist that has toured with many acts including Ariana Grande, The Midnight, Saint Motel, and Lindsey Stirling.  Justin has also released two solo EP's and two singles of his own; “Justin Klunk - EP”, “Clarity - EP”, “Dive”, and “Make It Real” which received charting positions at Smooth Jazz radio since his first EP’s debut in 2013. 

With many of the artists he tours with, Justin has performed on various TV shows such as Jimmy Kimmel Live (Ariana Grande), The Today Show (Saint Motel), The Ellen DeGeneres Show (Leon Bridges), and the American Music Awards. His saxophone and flute work can be heard on various TV shows like “WandaVision”, “Uncoupled”, “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series”, “iCarly” (reboot), "Modern Family", "Dr. Ken", and many others. He’s also recorded on albums for David Benoit, Saint Motel, Mastodon, and many others. As a musical director, Justin has programmed and arranged performances for LA-based RAINNE at iconic venues like the Hollywood Bowl, opening for Taylor Swift, Lizzo, the Jonas Brothers, and Billie Eilish at We Can Survive, 2019.  

Additionally, Justin has also performed with an array of artists including David Foster, Leon Bridges, David Benoit, Earth Wind and Fire, Shelea, Pia Toscano, Rozzi, Melissa Manchester, David Pack, and The Steve Miller Band. 

Justin strives to take the saxophone in new directions by experimenting with electronics in his compositions including “Dive”, “Make It Real”, and his new single “Thunder” featuring Smooth Jazz icon, David Benoit.

MO LOUIS COVERS ‘GEORGY PORGY’

"Music has played a monumental role in my life. I can remember my earliest years when the sounds of David Sanborn and Grover Washington Jr. filled the air of my childhood home. My parents were, and continue to be very avid fans of smooth jazz. It was from them, where my love for r&b & smooth jazz firmly took shape in my heart. It was a voice that I could relate to and that’s how I developed my unique, soulful sound.

At the age of 10 I began playing the saxophone. Initially, I was enamored by its beauty but that was only the beginning of the lifelong love affair that I have for this instrument. At the age of 14, after my first year of high school marching band, I knew that playing the sax was more than a hobby and it would be my lifelong aspiration. Here's a funny story from high school. I almost got expelled from my high school marching band because I started playing a sax solo over a trombone solo while we were performing Nat King Cole’s “Unforgettable". It was then I realized that I had a voice that needed to be heard as a solo artist!

After high school, I attended the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, Ma, where I majored in performance and music business. As life sometimes alters our paths, Mine was no different. I returned to California, began to raise a family, and put my dreams on hold.  I’ve been playing professionally since my early 20’s and come from humble beginnings. No illustrious tours or side acts, just a local player from Southern California where I’ve worked steadfastly at my craft. I like to say that I’ve played with about everyone who’s played with “The” guy.  Over the last 15 years I’ve played, recorded and toured throughout the western states with bands including The Chris Thayer Band & the TCB and The Brandon Ummel Band “Bub”. I’ve been able to establish a reputation as an artist and soloist amongst the finest Los Angeles Blues musicians. I’ve reached a place in my life where it’s time to share with the world the music that’s been in my heart for so long!

A little over a year ago I met Euge Groove while buying one of his saxophones and we became good friends. I’ll never forget standing in his studio and him putting on one of his own tracks for me to play along with. Talk about a humbling moment! I expressed my interest to release my own music and after some consideration, he decided to help me make my dreams a reality. I owe a lot to him… this wouldn’t be happening without him! Soon after I began working with the amazing smooth jazz producer, Jeff Carruthers and here we are today!

My debut single, TURN IT UP, was released on April 11th, 2022. My soulful and melodic voice gives me a unique identity that will hopefully find a place in the hearts of jazz lovers for years to come. This is just the beginning and I'm honored to share my heart and music with my amazing fans! Enjoy!" - Mo Louis

"Georgy Porgy"

Produced by Euge Groove

Arranged by Jeff Carruthers

Mixed and Mastered by Euge Groove

Saxophone: Mo Louis

Drums: Dan Needham

Bass: Cornelius Mims

Percussion: Lenny Castro

Rhodes: Carnell Harrel

NEW SINGLE ‘TICKLE TIME’ FROM HERB ALPERT

Few artists in the history of American music have been able to stay relevant decade after decade like Tijuana Brass titan Herb Alpert. The music icon, philanthropist and Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee returns with the release of his latest studio effort, Sunny Side Of The Street.  

Alpert, the prolific Tijuana Brass titan, returns with the new single "Tickle Time", a new original composition from Herb Alpert and keyboardist Jeff Lorber.

The prolific musician’s new set of 11 songs features six original compositions and was recorded with longtime collaborators Lani Hall, Jeff Lorber, Bill Cantos and more. Prior to the full album, Alpert released his cover of Miriam Makeba’s “Pata Pata” and the single “Here She Comes.” In addition to those tracks, the album contains gentle ballads like “Childhood” and “Time After Time,” covers of classic songs like “I’ll Remember You” (of Kui Lee/Don Ho/Andy Williams/Elvis Presley fame), and his version of Louis Armstrong’s “On the Sunny Side Of The Street.”

“I don’t try to make music for other people,” says Alpert. "If I can record something that makes me feel good and in the moment, then that’s a sign I’m doing something right. This recording gives me that feeling.”

KAYA STEWART - 'IF THINGS GO SOUTH' – NEW ALBUM BY US-BASED SINGER-SONGWRITER OUT TODAY

KAYA STEWART photography by Tyler Lee Aubrey

KAYA STEWART
IF THINGS GO SOUTH

new album
out 30.09.22
(Bay Street Records)

digital services
orcd.co/ifthingsgosouth

Alt-pop songstress Kaya Stewart has today released ‘If Things Go South’, her second full-length album, via Bay Street Records. The ten song set chronicles her self-actualisation as an artist along with the aches and pains of growing up, doubt, heartbreak and mental health. Influenced by the likes of Alanis Morissette and Debbie Harry, she has uncorked a hypnotic and hard-hitting sound of her own with full creative control and complete independence. “This record is 100% who I am now,” she declares. “This is the Kaya I was working towards all along.”

American Songwriter have raved about the album’s lead single, ‘Honey’, stating that “it unleashes desires, vulnerabilities…and the palpable realities of finding yourself while with another,” while Teen Vogue declared “the in-your-face thumping anthem should be done justice by being blasted at full volume — that way, you're able to simultaneously headbang and take in all of Kaya's full-bodied vocals.”

Born in London but raised in Los Angeles, Kaya’s musical career began in her mid-teens with a self-titled debut album on Warners. Now 22, she arrives fully formed with a scorching signature style. ‘If Things Go South' is tied together with powerful vocals utilising pop-punk attitude, intimate Americana-tinged storytelling and infectious danceable grooves. Co-written and co-produced with her father, Dave Stewart, it is Kaya at her most authentic and expressive self. The album is also set to have a candid and self-narrated companion performance film detailing her most personal thoughts, further details of which will be announced shortly.

Prior to making the record, and in the middle of the 2020 pandemic, Kaya was diagnosed with obsessive compulsive disorder, which turned out to be the catalyst to write this collection of songs. “It was the weirdest time of my life, because I had this life-changing diagnosis that explained so much for me,” she admits. “I wasn’t planning on making a record and was actually thinking of taking a break for a little while. I called my dad, and he said, ‘Why don’t you just come to Nashville and write a couple of songs?’ By the time I left, we had ‘If Things Go South’. I was able to be myself in the studio. The album is the most honest thing I’ve ever done.”

‘If Things Go South’ arrives following the rapid fire release of the singles ‘Honey’, ’Til I Fixed It’ and ‘Hope You’re Happy’.

IF THINGS GO SOUTH 
TRACKLISTING
1  Getting Closer
2  If Things Go South
3  Young In New York
4  Til I Fixed It
5  Jealous
6  Honey
7  Independence
8  This Tattoo
9  3 Is Company
10  Hope You’re Happy

facebook.com/misskayaofficial
instagram.com/kayastewart

GEOFF MULDAUR  'HIS LAST LETTER' – SUMPTUOUSLY PACKAGED AND GENRE-SPANNING NEW DOUBLE ALBUM BY AMERICANA LEGEND OUT NOW

GEOFF MULDAUR photographs by Sacha de Boer

GEOFF MULDAUR
HIS LAST LETTER

new album
2xLP box set / 2xCD book
out 30.09.22
[Moon River Music]

“A wonderful album crammed full of brilliantly arranged songs"
BLUES MATTERS
“Builds on the orchestration style of his Bix Beiderbecke tribute album and features sumptuous music, sound and packaging”
AMERICANA UK
“The arrangements are imaginative and subtly textured, the playing is impeccable and the music has a lovely, refreshing quality ****”
RNR
“A tour de force of musicianship and a superb eclectic snapshot of American culture. The book is worth the money alone, but the music it houses is priceless”
FOLKING

includes the AA sided single
LADY OF THE LAVENDER MIST
GEE BABY, AIN’T I GOOD TO YOU
SPOTIFY  |  APPLE MUSIC

‘His Last Letter’ is the most ambitious project ever undertaken by the Americana legend Geoff Muldaur; an 18 song tour de force in a long line of highly-acclaimed recordings by this venerable and highly respected musician. Recorded in the Netherlands, Muldaur takes us on a wide-ranging musical journey, collaborating with some of the finest classical and jazz musicians in that country to present stylish renderings of tunes from the American folk and jazz ‘songbag’, musical settings for the poems of Tennessee Williams, tributes to heroes such as Jelly Roll Morton and Duke Ellington, plus original compositions.

These recordings are available in high-end packages that include a 2xCD with book and a 2xLP box set with a 12”x12” book that includes photos, a foreword by composer David Amram, plus extensive track-by-track notes and personal stories by Muldaur. A true collector’s item, ‘His Last Letter’ will appeal in particular to listeners with an interest in American culture of the 1960s/70s, while its musical mix of classical, jazz, blues and Americana is the very epitome of ‘eclectic’. It also serves as an impressive retrospective of what has been a fulfilling career; a refreshing and vibrant modern classical/crossover mix that profiles Muldaur as an ever-creative artist who remains committed to developing his favourite music into the future.

Muldaur first had the idea of recording some chamber works he had been working on - pieces for violin, cello, clarinet, bassoon and French horn - in the late ‘00s, and for the next ten years found himself crossing the pond 2-3 times a year to rehearse and record in Amsterdam.
  
Producer Gert-Jan Blom soon came on board and utilized his address book to find the most skilled musicians, studios and engineers in the country, with Muldaur recalling that “as my arrangements and compositions evolved and different ensembles were needed, we found key players from the Netherlands Philharmonic Orchestra, Radio Philharmonic Orchestra, Residence Orchestra of the Hague, the Asko | Schönberg Ensemble and Metropole Orkest. We also engaged freelancers on a variety of instruments, including our fine mezzo-soprano Claron McFadden.” McFadden shines on ‘My Little One’ (a musical setting for a Tennessee Williams poem) and especially on the album title track, which appears as the second movement of Muldaur’s own ‘Octet in Three Movements’ for soprano, string quartet and wind instruments.

The genesis of ‘The Last Letter’ dates back to 1977 when Muldaur found a box at his family home that contained a newspaper article from almost a century before about the sinking of the USS Oneida in Yokohama harbour. The ship’s Lieutenant Commander was his great-grandfather. Years later, in 2012, Muldaur received another box of historical records, “this time from the estate of my cousin. In it were letters sent from Japan by my great-grandfather to his wife in New Jersey. Among them was a love letter written the day before the USS Oneida left Tokyo for home.” As the ship left Tokyo Bay in heavy fog, it was rammed, sunk and abandoned by a British steamer out of its lane. Letters from survivors and military officers, newspaper articles and a US Senate report described the event. ‘His Last Letter’ was conceived from these sources.

RILEY RICHARD – ‘SUPERSTAR’

Riley Richard Music

What do you get when you combine the talents of a songwriter/producer whose work has appeared on over 60 gold/platinum/multi-platinum artist's projects, and a contemporary jazz core artist with recent back to back #1 SJ Billboard singles to his credit?  You get Barry Eastmond and Riley Richard.  Riley is back with a passionate sax performance produced by Mr. Eastmond of the hit single "Superstar", which was is originally a classic hit by The Carpenters, and later covered by Luther Vandross.  I know slower songs can be a challenge at times to program, but I think this song offers a nice contrast to the up-tempo and high dynamic songs you often receive.

JOE LYNN TURNER BRENGT LYRIC VIDEO UIT VOOR TWEEDE NIEUWE TRACK ‘BLACK SUN’ VAN ZIJN NIEUWE AANKOMENDE STUDIOALBUM ‘BELLY OF THE BEAST’

Uit op 28 oktober 2022
Via Music Theories Recordings/ Mascot Label Group
 
Pre-order/beluister hier: https://lnk.to/JoeLynnTurner 

Joe Lynn Turner en Music Theories Recordings/ Mascot Label Group hebben een tweede nummer uitgebracht van het aankomende nieuwe studioalbum getiteld “Belly Of The Beast”.

Turner heeft opnieuw samengewerkt met Wayne Joyner, die de begeleidende visual heeft gemaakt voor de titeltrack "Belly Of The Beast" (https://youtu.be/VTW37kr67kM). Joe over “Black Sun”:, “Confucius shared, ‘Signs and symbols rule The World, not words nor laws.’ The Black Sun is an esoteric, occult symbol used by the secret Elite Brotherhood called the Illuminati.  It is a symbol of power, energy, and dominance. Those of us who are familiar with the concept can better understand how the Beast System operates. The agenda is to create a system of global government imposed on the world population known as the New World Order or recently named The Great Reset. The agenda is once again activated to complete this imposed ideology. The Black Sun is on the rise…”
 
Na miljoenen platen te hebben verkocht, voor talloze fans te hebben gespeeld en als frontman te hebben opgetreden van enkele van de meest invloedrijke rockbands in de geschiedenis, spreekt de bekroonde songwriter en power vocalist Joe Lynn Turner zijn mening zo luid mogelijk uit op zijn elfde album “Belly Of The Beast”. Door de krachten te bundelen met de bekende producer Peter Tägtgren [Hypocrisie, PAIN, Lindemann], roept de in New Jersey geboren krachtpatser het soort heavy metal op dat niet alleen je vuist in de lucht pompt, maar je ook aan het denken zet.
 
In 2017 ontmoette hij Peter Tägtgren voor het eerst, na een optreden op het verjaardagsfeest van diens broer. Kort daarna werkten Joe en Peter samen aan hun eerste nummer "Don't Fear The Dark", waarmee ze hun creatieve partnerschap versterkten en wat later het album “Belly Of The Beast“ zou worden.
 
In dit hoofdstuk van zijn leven nam hij ook een cruciale persoonlijke beslissing. Op driejarige leeftijd werd bij Joe alopecia vastgesteld, Toen hij 14 was, begon hij een pruik te dragen, waarbij hij te maken kreeg met emotionele en psychologische schade door het vele pesten op school. Dus droeg hij het haarstukje gedurende zijn hele carrière, totdat hij uiteindelijk besloot het zonder te doen. “In a way, it’s a blessing and a curse,” geeft hij toe. “I have nothing to prove, and I can wear a wig—or not. I am free to do what I want. I’m a grown man, and I’m getting to be an older man. Many men in this business eventually come to the decision to continue to ‘’wear hair’’ or shave their head which is very fashionable today. Either way, it takes a lot of personal courage. Assholes in high school trying to kick me around made me stronger and gave me the necessary motivation and strength to rise above the rest. Anger and pain are a great tool. If applied correctly, it could develop you to become the best version of yourself. Instead of running away, I was ‘’hiding in plain sight”. 
 
Uiteindelijk heeft Joe een boodschap te brengen met Belly Of The Beast.
“Rock‘n’Roll is about entertainment of course, but I hope you hear the message as well, It seems like everyone has sold their souls to major corporations. Once people are rich and popular, they become a part of the establishment. Where are the rebels? Who’s going to say, ‘Fuck you! We aren’t going to take this shit?’ I am.”

BELLY OF THE BEAST

Tracklist

Belly Of The Beast

Black Sun

Tortured Soul

Rise Up

Dark Night Of The Soul

Tears Of Blood

Desire

Don’t Fear The Dark

Fallen World

Living The Dream

Requiem

Available Formats:
Pearl White LP, CD and Digital

Joe Lynn Turner Online:
instagram.com/joelynnturnerofficial/ 
facebook.com/joelynnturnerofficial/ 
twitter.com/joelynnturner 
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCN7L8352vbsLUH4dteClNzA 
https://joelynnturner.com/ 

ALLEN CARMAN PROJECT WITH ‘BABY MAYBE’

The Allen Carman Project is back in the studio putting the final touches on their second CD to be released in the next few months. Much like their successful debut CD titled Carmanology which produced several Top 30 Billboard hits, their second CD also features some of the best musicians from the "Smooth Jazz" arena. On October 3rd, the Allen Carman Project is releasing a new single from the upcoming CD titled "Baby Maybe" with original band members Philippe Saisse on keyboards, Gumbi Ortiz on percussion, and Allen Carman on guitar. It features Freddie Fox on guitar, Rick Braun on trumpet, Brandon Fields on sax and flute, Wayne Bergeron on trumpet, Nick Lane on trombone, and Jay Williams on drums. "Baby Maybe" continues with the same jazz funk/smooth jazz flavors of Carmanology. The single, "Baby Maybe", (and the CD) are being produced by Gumbi Ortiz and Philippe Saisse.

Last month, Gumbi Ortiz and Allen Carman (East Coasters) flew out to Los Angeles to join Philippe Saisse and the other "West Coasters" listed above to join in the comradery of all playing together to produce a live feel for "Baby Maybe". While it did produce a bit of friendly competition between the East Coasters and West Coasters (like which coast has the best players), the result was fantastic. We hope you enjoy "Baby Maybe" and the CD to follow shortly thereafter.

ROBIN BRAMLETT NEEDS YOU ‘INSIDE MY LOVE’

Robin Bramlett, born and raised in Bakersfield, CA, is a bassist, recording artist, producer, musical director, arranger, and songwriter who is primarily self-taught; however, she took music theory classes at Bakersfield College to further hone her musicianship skills. Her early musical experiences included the piano that was a staple in the family home to taking up the electric bass guitar and then eventually keyboard and upright bass. For 10 years she served as musical director for the all-female jazz ensemble, Jazz In Pink, under founder and keyboardist Gail Jhonson which led to performing with notable artists such as Althea Rene, Karen Briggs, Jeanette Harris, Kim Scott, Mariea Antoinette, and many others.

She has also performed with their notable artists such as Nona Hendryx, Kandice Springs, Miki Howard, Chrystal Rucker, JJ airston, and many others as well. In 2013 she released her debut project, This Is My Life, and he is currently working on a new project which is due to be released on all platforms mid to late 2023. "Inside My Love", a Minnie Riperton cover, is the first single from that project.

"Inside My Love"

Produced and Arranged by Robin Bramlett

Written by Minnie Riperton, Richard Rudolph, and Leon Ware (Dickiebird Music and Jobete Music Co. Inc.)

Mixed by Lew Laing

Lead Bass, Electric Bass, Vocoder, Synths, Guitar, and Drum Programming: Robin Bramlett

Strings and String Arrangement: Karen Briggs

B. VALENTINE FEAT. DAVE KOZ ‘LOVIN’ YOU’

B. Valentine's "Lovin' You" featuring Dave Koz is a re-imagination of legendary Minnie Ripertson's 70's classic. It features the dynamic voice of B. Valentine, the smooth sax tones of nine-time GRAMMY nominee Dave Koz, and the rich production of chart-topping producer Eric Valentine. The song will be released in October during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, in honor of Minnie Riperton, who passed away after a long battle with Breast Cancer.

"Lovin' You" ft. Dave Koz

Executive Producers - Eric Valentine & LaTisha B. Valentine

Written by Minnie Riperton & Richard Rudolph

Produced and Arranged by Eric Valentine

Mixed by Ken Freeman & Eric Valentine

Mastered by Euge Groove, House of Groove Mastering

Lead Vocals, Background Vocals: B. Valentine

Saxophone: Dave Koz

Drums, Additional Keyboards: Eric Valentine

Rhodes, Piano: Carnell Harrell

Strings: John Stoddart

Acoustic Guitar: Nomad

Bass: Cornelius "Corney" Mims

RICHARD SMITH’S ‘GROOVE ASSETS’

Contemporary jazz guitarist Richard Smith continues the legacy of groove with the new single, “Groove Assets,” produced by his former student, hitmaker Adam Hawley.

Whether he’s teaching at USC’s Thornton School of Music or abroad in such diverse locations as Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Manila, London, Oslo, Amsterdam, Helsinki, Palermo, Rome or Bueno Aires, contemporary jazz guitarist Richard Smith gets asked about playing in the groove. So much so that the globetrotter thinks that playing in the pocket may be America’s greatest cultural export musically. Recorded in London, Amsterdam and Los Angeles, Smith’s new single, “Groove Assets,” captures that soulful sound with the aid of one of his former students, multi-time Billboard chart-topping guitarist Adam Hawley, who produced and cowrote the song with his former professor.

"I've found that no matter where I go in the world, I hear American popular music - R&B, hip hop, soul and jazz - coming out of restaurants, bars, cars and classrooms as much or more as the indigenous music. The minute I come back to the States and fire up my Los Angeles band, it hits me: the groove, lock, pocket, and soulfulness that is embedded so deeply in our American music culture. When I teach or give masterclasses abroad, they want to know about what ‘playing in the pocket’ is, as if it is a mysterious, elusive phenomenon. And it IS a cultural phenomenon that comes out of our deep and diverse musical heritage. So, I have developed a lot of classes around that, sort of a how to lock-it-up and groove. I say that one of the best musical ‘assets’ that they can have is groove assets,” said Smith about his inspiration for the single.

“Groove Assets” has a certain laid back, chill quality to the midtempo groove fronted by Smith’s cool electric jazz guitar licks, which are embellished by Hawley’s rhythm guitar harmonies. Bolted to a taut rhythmic pocket crafted by drummer Eric Valentine and bassist Mel Brown, the song’s cowriter Tico Pierhagen adds keyboard melodies. Trumpeter Michael Stever architects the lush horn arrangements that form a proscenium around the R&B groove.

Smith has been traveling internationally since he was seven and for most of the last twenty years, he’s taught and performed each year in Europe. The guitarist has served as a visiting professor of contemporary jazz and popular music at major music conservatories and academies all over the world, which he’s been doing since he was in his twenties. He was one of the youngest tenured professors at USC’s Thornton School of Music where he created the world’s first doctorate program in contemporary guitar. That’s where he first connected with Hawley, whom he calls a “success story.”

Shortly after the pandemic hit in 2020, Smith was diagnosed with stage four throat cancer. To divert his mind, he reached out to Hawley to help him write and produce a few singles. “Groove Asset” is their third collaboration.  “The first two songs (“Let’s Roll” and “Soul Share”) we did together were hits, and it feels like we are onto another one with 'Groove Assets'. There is no greater pleasure or prouder moment in a jazz professor's life than the act of hiring a former student for the incredibly important job of producing a single. I am a very lucky, proud soul indeed,” beamed Smith, whose cancer is in complete remission.

"We train jazz and rock stars. I am super proud of all our students who have gone on to play with Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, John Legend, Gwen Stefani, Marc Anthony, Thundercat, Justin Bieber, Michael Bublé, Jason Mraz, Elton John, Madonna, Bono, Maroon 5, Jennifer Lopez, John Mayer, and on hit television programs ‘American Idol’ and ‘Glee’ to name a few."

Smith was a student at USC when he attended the last masterclass given by Spanish classical guitar great Andre Segovia, which had a lasting impact.  “The Maestro said many profound things, but the one that really stuck with me and guided my life was ‘When you teach, you learn twice.’ That, and the fact that my mother, father, cousins, aunts and uncles were all professors at schools like Oxford, MIT, Oberlin, Tufts, Hong Kong, UCLA, Michigan and Liverpool guided me toward university life as my recording and performing career grew. It has all been something of a mission,” said Smith who plans to perform next summer in England, Holland, Greece and Italy.“Our (America’s) jazz and popular music are our greatest cultural export, and I am proud to be an ambassador for that.”

Closer to home, Smith will be a featured performer alongside Greg Adams and East Bay Soul at the Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival on October 22.

VERNIEUWDE JAZZ IN BELGIUM – SITE BESCHIKBAAR

"Jazz in Belgium": hoofdvitrine van de jazz community in België.

Op 28 september werd de vernieuwde website Jazz in Belgium gelanceerd. De site is beschikbaar in drie talen, nu ook collaboratief en participatief en zonder voorwaarden toegankelijk voor iedereen. Deze tool ter promotie en verspreiding van Belgische jazz werd 25 jaar geleden gelanceerd en is gewijd aan de jazz community in België. De site werd helemaal vernieuwd om te voldoen aan de behoeften van zowel professionals als het grote publiek. Het nieuwe Jazz in Belgium werd ontwikkeld door de vereniging Les Lundis d'Hortense en wil het eerste uithangbord worden van de jazzgemeenschap in België.

Het nieuwe Jazz in Belgium vergemakkelijkt de toegang tot informatie voor alle domeinen van de jazz, van mainstream tot modern jazz, van post bop tot free jazz, van swing tot manouche, van crossover tot Nu-jazz... Onder de content die rechtstreeks gecreëerd en gepubliceerd wordt door de verschillende operatoren van de Brusselse, Vlaamse en Waalse jazz scene, vinden we volgende elementen: een agenda die openstaat voor alle jazzactiviteiten (concerten, jamsessies, festivals, conferenties of masterclasses...), een repertoire van jazzlocaties met geolokalisatie, up-to-date artiestenpagina's, platenreleases, professionele contactinformatie en opleidingsplaatsen.

Voor het grote jazzliefhebberspubliek biedt de site een duik in de geschiedenis van Belgische jazz en is het mogelijk om dagelijks nieuwe artiesten te ontdekken. Via een eenvoudige identificatie kan je via de site ook je favoriete content volgen - artiesten, zalen, festivals... Zo geniet je van een gepersonaliseerde surfervaring en moet je niets (meer) missen van de huidige jazz scene.

Voor jazzprofessionals - artiesten, concertzalen, jazz clubs, managers/bookers, labels, instellingen, studio's of journalisten - biedt de site een gebruiksvriendelijke ondersteuning voor dynamische promotie en communicatie. Alle leden van de community Jazz in Belgium kunnen in enkele clicks hun foto, biografie en medialinks aanpassen of concertdata toevoegen voor België.

Met dit initiatief, dat wordt opgevat als een uitnodiging om lid te worden van de grote jazzfamilie in België, wil de vzw Les Lundis d'Hortense een unieke, dynamische ruimte die voor iedereen toegankelijk is, bieden voor de verspreiding en om informatie te delen. Tegelijk willen ze ook een waardevolle hefboom bieden om uitwisselingen tussen de verschillende gemeenschappen van het land te faciliteren.

Ontdek nu de vernieuwde website op jazzinbelgium.be.

BIG SCIENCE: ARS MUSICA VERKENT DE WETENSCHAP VAN 18 NOV TEM 2 DEC

Muziek als experiment... Met ‘wetenschap’ als thematische rode draad vindt van 18 november tot 2 december de nieuwe editie plaats van Ars Musica, al jaren hét brandpunt voor nieuw en hedendaags muzikaal werk. De veelzeggende titel voor deze editie luidt BIG SCIENCE, met een programma dat gaat van computergestuurd klankonderzoek tot bespiegelingen over de kosmos. De wetenschap bewijst telkens weer een dankbare inspiratiebron te zijn voor tal van nieuwe muzikale creaties. Tijdens de concerten die dit jaar gepland zijn droom je met open ogen en daal je af in de verbluffende diepte van onze verbeeldingskracht, met Laurie Anderson, Georges Aperghis, Brian Eno, David Krakauer, Martin Matalon, Jean-Luc Fafchamps of Philip Glass... Dit unieke festival heeft van ongedwongen muzikale ontdekkingen een handelsmerk gemaakt en laat jou daar graag aan deelnemen!

De titel BIG SCIENCE is in de eerste plaats een hommage aan het cult-album van Laurie Anderson dat in 1982, inmiddels 40 jaar geleden, werd uitgebracht. “Het avantgardistische experiment van BIG SCIENCE is ook vandaag nog even visionair,” vindt Bruno Letort, artistiek directeur van Ars Musica. Laurie Anderson is dit jaar dan ook ‘eregast’ van het festival. Ze is niet alleen componiste en beeldend kunstenares maar ook dichteres en zit nooit om een artistiek experiment verlegen. Anderson tekent voor twee concerten (waaronder één met Brussels Philharmonic op 1 december), een installatie met Hsin-Chien Huang: To the Moon, en de vertoning van twee films in Bozar (Heart of a Dog en Home of the Brave). 

Laurie Anderson © Ebru Yildiz

Wetenschappelijk bewezen muzikaliteit

Het 2022 programma van Ars Musica bekijkt wetenschap dus als een dynamisch, experimenteel en transdisciplinair element dat een rol speelt binnen het creatieproces van nieuwe muziek. Dat geldt zeker en vast voor de festivalopener Metropolis Rebooted: het filmconcert in Bozar waar één van de eerste cyborg/kunst cross-overs onder de loep wordt genomen (18/11, Metropolis van Fritz Lang met muziek van Martin Matalon). 
Verwijzingen naar de wetenschap duiken in het programma ook op in de muzikale figuur van Albert Einstein (Einstein on the Beach van Philipp Glass door Ictus en Suzanne Vega op 30/11 in Bozar), in de futuristische verwondering voor de kosmos (On Mars van Brian Eno gekoppeld aan het grafische universum van François Schuiten op 19/11 in het Planetarium) en in de improvisaties met video en technologie tijdens het concert van David Krakauer en Kathleen Tagg (op 22/11 in de Hallen van Schaarbeek). Een ander highlight van het rijke en veelzijdige festival zijn de geschriften van Galileo Galilei zoals ze opduiken in de muziek van John Cage of Meredith Monk (Et pourtant elle tourne, 20/11 in les Brigittines).

Filmkunst neemt deze editie een prominente plaats in op het festival met de wereldpremière van de symfonie Ombres célestes van Jean-Luc Fafchamps, tijdens Fiction Science; een avond gewijd aan de muziek van sciencefictionfilms op 25/11 in Bozar. Hier geniet je van grote klassiekers van het genre met Planet of the Apes, Encounter of the Third Kind en de niet te missen ouverture van 2001. A Space Odyssey. Componist Frédéric Verrières tapt van deze filmische inspiratiebron voor zijn nieuwe creatie Screening, die op 22 november in La Raffinerie wordt voorgesteld en waarin de woorden van Alfred Hitchcock worden omgezet in een gelaagde partituur van gebaren en geluid. 
Maar ook literatuur maakt haar opwachting op het festival. In het werk Migrants van Georges Aperghis duikt de roman Heart of Darkness van Joseph Conrad op en illustreert perfect het rijke creatieve potentieel van artistieke mengvormen.

Tot slot is er de tweede editie van het Bal contemporain dat een vrolijke en speelse vraag stelt: "hoe kan men hedendaagse muziek dansen?” Het bal, dat in 2019 reeds een groot succes was, zal doorgaan in het Maison du Peuple in Sint-Gillis. Dit keer neemt het Ensemble Spectra de muzikale omkadering voor zijn rekening.

Het is een tijd waarin wetenschap niet alleen een bron van hoop is, maar ook al te vaak een reden tot bezorgdheid vormt. Uitgerust met een grote dosis muzikale transdisciplinariteit en pop, nodigt de BIG SCIENCE editie uit om met nieuwsgierigheid naar wetenschap te kijken en in te schepen voor een experimentele muzikale reis. 

Meer info:

https://www.arsmusica.be/

STRAIGHT-AHEAD JAZZ SAXOPHONIST SAM TAYLOR’S DEFIANT ACT OF GIVING

His “Let Go” album, featuring trumpeter Terell Stafford, drops October 21.

NEW YORK CITY (26 September 2022): One bright morning last January, saxophonist Sam Taylor started his day by writing down his intentions. It was an important day, the day that he would lead a quintet featuring trumpeter Terell Stafford in the same historic recording studio where John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, Freddie Hubbard and Stanley Turrentine recorded, to track his third album for Cellar Live. Locking in his focus, Taylor’s message to himself was to be grateful, mindful and fully present for the recording experience, and most importantly, to give and let go. The resultant ten-track swinging jazz set “Let Go,” produced by Taylor and Cory Weeds, drops October 21 on CD and October 28 digitally.

Taylor’s set list consists of selections from the Great American Songbook, including songs written by Barry Harris, Hank Jones, Benny Golson, and Jule Styne. However, one can argue that the centerpiece is Taylor’s own composition. The Harlem-based artist wrote the title track, marking the first time he ever recorded one of his own songs. “Let Go” embodies Taylor’s ethos as a musician.

“It was written during a year full of the unexpected, with invaluable new experiences and lessons. More than that was the validation of a virtue I have long held true in my heart as I live this life of music: music is an act of giving. Living a life of music is also a journey of generosity and letting go. The musician surrenders to the music, interprets the song and shares that with others. To surrender, to be tender and giving is a show of strength, an act of defiance. This is an empowering idea. Our world faces such heartache, fear and profound grief. How do we meet that every day as individuals and as a society? Tenderness and loving kindness could be the most powerful tools we have. In my own way, this recording is an act of defiance,” said Taylor.

Recorded at Van Gelder Studios, Taylor and Stafford are flanked on the album by a trio comprised of pianist Jeb Patton, bassist Neal Miner and drummer Willie Jones III. Taylor grew up in Philadelphia listening to Stafford, a renown and respected talent who teaches in the City of Brotherly Love at Temple University. 

“Terell Stafford is an international jazz star, a fixture on the Philadelphia jazz scene and one of the city’s artistic leaders. To have the opportunity to know him and play with him now as a professional musician is truly special. I remember attending a workshop while I was a young student at The Performing Arts High School in Philadelphia. We took a bus up Broad Street to Temple University where students across the city sat and listened to Terell’s group play and speak about jazz. I remember his emphasis on rhythm, the triplet, how to feel the beat. He was giving and patient. I can honestly say he is just as genuine and giving now. It is an overwhelming honor to play this music with him,” said Taylor, who will perform at Rite of Swing Jazz Café at Temple University on November 10.

Released as a single last week, the album opens with the bebop anthem “Luminescence,” which was penned by Harris, a seminal figure on the New York City jazz scene who passed away a few weeks prior to the “Let Go” recording date.

Taylor first discovered the melancholy “Angel Face” from a 1940s recording by tenor saxman Coleman Hawkins but decided to record his own version after falling in love with a take he heard featuring one of his favorite singers, Abbey Lincoln. 

“The melody is gorgeous, operatic in style and goes straight to the heart. Ms. Lincoln’s interpretation, including her own lyric, is perfection. She is a constant source of inspiration for me. Her honesty and fearlessness are undeniable,” said Taylor.

In choosing to interpret Golson’s  “Out of the Past,” Taylor pays homage to his hometown.

“The song has the classic Golson sound: lyrical melody, beautiful lead (sax) voice paired with the blues and deep swing. Benny Golson is a Philadelphian like me. As with my previous record, ‘Along The Way,’ it was important for me to honor and embrace my hometown while embracing my experience of over fifteen years living a life of music in New York,” said Taylor who will be running his first marathon in Philadelphia in November.

One of the more impromptu and magical moments that occurred during the “Let Go” recording date came at the end of the session. As the musicians were packing up their gear, Taylor asked the engineer to keep the tape rolling. With just his tenor horn and sparse accompaniment from Miner and Jones, Taylor emoted an impassioned “Prisoner of Love” with the woman he calls the love of his life sitting beside him.

“I first heard this old American Songbook standard on the ‘Coleman Hawkins Encounters Ben Webster’ two tenor record. It was one of the first records I really tried to understand. I would constantly play along with it without any real understanding of harmony or what I was doing. It just moved me, and I wanted to be a part of it somehow. This song has now taken on new meaning for me as I dedicate it to Maia. Recording it was a moment I’ll never forget, filled with such joy and love,” said Taylor.

Taylor underscores the Philly and New York City theme on “Philly New York Junction.” He grew up listening to trumpeters John Swana and Joe Magnarelli playing it, regularly seeing Swana perform in Philadelphia jazz clubs.

“Swana’s playing, along with that of Larry McKenna, Bootsie Barnes and Sid Simmons really informed and inspired my choice to live a life of music. They showed me - and continue to do so - that being a musician is to be part of a community. The music is bigger than you, and living it means honoring those that came before, that lived and transitioned in its name,” said Taylor.

The album concludes with a pair of unlikely tunes. Taken from the musical “Annie,” “You’re Never Fully Dressed Without A Smile” is an earnest attempt to do something Taylor’s “all-time hero” had a flair for doing.

“It became my theme song over the year, one that I would always play in a tenor trio format - saxophone, bass and drums - on my weekly gigs in New York City. This is my favorite format if I’m honest, thanks to my love of Sonny Rollins. The song always makes people smile and tap their feet. Recording it is also a subtle way to honor Rollins, who is known as an indisputable musical genius who often picks the most unlikely of tunes and makes them incredibly hip and swinging. I hope we achieved that with this one,” said Taylor.

Closing the set is “Bye Bye Baby,” which Marilyn Monroe sang in “Gentleman Prefer Blondes.” Taylor’s rendition was influenced by a version he heard played at dazzling speed by pianist Harold Mabern.

Taylor studied and was mentored at Purchase College, State University of New York. Among his noteworthy performances was playing with saxophone greats James Moody, Jimmy Heath, Frank Wess, Joe Lovano, Steve Wilson, Mark Turner and Ralph Lalama. He released his critically lauded solo debut, “My Future Just Passed,” in 2015 followed two years later by “Along the Way,” which was the first time he teamed up with Patton and Miner. Twice Taylor has toured in Canada, and he’ll be supporting “Let Go” at concert dates there next month around the album release date. Closer to home, Taylor serves as artistic director for the West Harlem Jazz Festival.  

In the “Let Go” liner notes, Taylor writes about music giving voice to an experience, both personal and collective. He believes music is an expression of love and respect, inspiring hope and a reason to overcome challenges and triumphs. Understanding the role music can and does play is why before stepping foot inside the recording studio earlier this year, Taylor put pen to paper to state his intentions.       

“I invited my musical heroes to come together, to bring their powerful voices into a space, surrender and let go. Terell, Jeb, Neal and Willie were masterful. The space, a studio that echoes with jazz history, made the day that much more meaningful. I haven’t the words to express my gratitude. My hope is the music communicates that clearly and fully.”

“Let Go” contains the following songs:

“Luminescence”

“Let Go”

“Angel Face”

“Getting’ Together”

“Out of the Past”

“Prisoner of Love”

“Here’s That Rainy Day”

“Philly New York Junction”

“You’re Never Fully Dressed Without A Smile”

“Bye Bye Baby”

For more information, please visit www.samtaylormusic.com. 

SINGER & GUITARIST VERNON BURCH DIED

Soul man and guitarist VERBON BURCH died on Friday 23rd September. Different sources offer different ages for Vernon – but the general consensus is that he was 67. Few details of his passing are available.

As a guitar player, Vernon worked with the Delfonics and the Bar Kays and for a while he was a member of the Stax studio band. As a solo artist he worked for a number of labels in the late 70s/early 80s. His biggest  hits were ‘Do It To Me’, ‘Changes’ and his dance hit “Get Up’ which Deee-Lite used as the chassis for their Groove Is In The Heart smash.

In later life Vernon worked as a minister and in 2011 released a gospel album, ‘The Inside Out Project’ on which he was billed as the Reverend Vernon Burch.

DRUMMER JOHN HARTMAN OF THE DOOBIE BROTHERS DIED

John Hartman, drummer for the Doobie Brothers during the band’s hit-making 1970s heyday, has died, the band announced. He was 72.

No cause or date of death was given.

“Today we are thinking of John Hartman, or Little John to us,” the band wrote on Instagram and Twitter. “John was a wild spirit, great drummer, and showman during his time in the Doobies. He was also a close friend for many years and an intricate part of the band personality! We send our condolences to all his loved ones at this difficult time. Rest In Peace John.”

Formed in San Jose, California, in 1970, the Doobie Brothers began with the meeting of Hartman and singer-guitarist-songwriter Tom Johnston. Soon joined by singer-guitarist-songwriter Patrick Simmons and bassist Dave Shogren. The group would welcome an ever-shifting aggregation of members over the decades – the Doobies still tour today – most notably singer-keyboardist Michael McDonald in 1975.

In 1971, the group added a second drummer – Michael Hossack – to its line-up, inaugurating the band’s unusual double-drum sound.

Hartman performed with the band from 1970 to 1979, and returned for another stint from 1987 to 1992. During his initial run with the group, the Doobies released a string of hits that would become staples of classic rock, including “China Grove,” “Listen To The Music,” “Jesus Is Just Alright,” “Black Water,” and “Takin’ It To The Streets,” among many others.

In 2020, Hartman and other surviving members of the original group, including Johnston, Simmons and McDonald, were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

JAZZ LEGEND PHARAOH SANDERS DIED

Pharoah Sanders, the revered American jazz saxophonist, has died aged 81. The news was confirmed by Sanders’ label, Luaka Bop, on Twitter.

“We are devastated to share that Pharoah Sanders has passed away,” the label’s statement read. “He died peacefully surrounded by loving family and friends in Los Angeles earlier this morning. Always and forever the most beautiful human being, may he rest in peace.”

Born Farrell Sanders in Little Rock, Arkansas in 1940, Sanders’ career began in Oakland, California. After moving to New York in the 1960s, he started collaborating with Sun Ra, who gave him the name Pharoah, before becoming a member of John Coltrane’s band; Sanders played with Coltrane until the latter’s death in 1967.

Along with Coltrane, Sanders was a key figure in the spiritual jazz scene. His 1969 album Karma, which incorporated influences from traditional African and south Asian music, is considered one of the major early documents of the form. Throughout the early 1970s, Sanders continued to release records as a bandleader, largely on the Impulse! label. In 1971, he performed on Alice Coltrane’s Journey in Satchidananda, another milestone in modal and avant garde jazz.

After leaving Impulse! in 1973, Sanders released albums on Arista and the avant garde jazz label India Navigation, before releasing a run of records on the Theresa label in the 1980s.

Although his output began to slow in the 90s, Sanders continued to tour and collaborate throughout the 2000s. In the mid-2010s, Sanders heard a composition by the British electronic producer Sam Shepherd, AKA Floating Points, and asked to collaborate with him. The resulting album, 2021’s Promises, recorded in 2019 with the London Symphony Orchestra, was Sanders’ first new album in more than a decade, and was widely acclaimed.

Paying tribute to Sanders on Instagram, Shepherd wrote: “My beautiful friend passed away this morning. I am so lucky to have known this man, and we are all blessed to have his art stay with us forever. Thank you Pharoah.”

JD SIMO - 'MORTGAGE ON MY SOUL' – NEW SINGLE BY ESTEEMED US GUITARIST AND SINGER-SONGWRITER

JD SIMO
MORTGAGE ON MY SOUL

new single
out 23.09.22

digital services
orcd.co/moms

from the album
SONGS FROM THE HOUSE OF GREASE
out 13.01.23
[Crows Feet Records]

pre-order/save
orcd.co/greasepre

Nashville-based guitarist, singer and songwriter JD Simo has today released a new single entitled ‘Mortgage On My Soul’. A creative and incendiary cover of the classic song by hill country blues pioneer Mississippi Fred McDowell, JD explains: “I just really dug the words and I also love the hypnotic vibe of his style. Over the course of a few months we started doing it during soundchecks and Adam [Abrashoff, drummer] came up with this killer Afrobeat style groove. It’s also a really good showcase for my slide playing and is such a blast to play. I could play it for an hour.

Paying homage to the original while adding a modern twist, JD’s typically expert yet passionate guitar work and powerful, soulful vocals are on full display, while his guitar solo kicks the intensity level up a gear, aided by the backing of longtime collaborator Abrashoff and bassist Todd Bolden.

‘Mortgage On My Soul’ is included on a forthcoming new album entitled ‘Songs From The House Of Grease’. Recorded with his trio, it is set for release on 13th January 2023, with pre-orders/saves available from today HERE .

JD states that "this album is a live snapshot of me and the fellas playing some favourite tracks that hadn't been captured yet on record. I hadn't planned on releasing something so fast but couldn't be prouder of this snapshot in time. It's honestly my best playing ever captured!”

Containing five songs with a total running time of 40 minutes, it includes covers of John Coltrane's 'Afro Blue’ and Blind Alfred Reed's 'How Can A Poor Man Stand Such Times And Live’ alongside the current single, plus a free jazz take on Simo’s own 'Higher Plane' (from his self-titled 2020 solo record) and a brand new Meters inspired cut entitled ‘Missy’s Strut’.

JD’s love and respect for the roots of blues and rock ’n roll led him to be chosen by music supervisor David Cobb to record all the guitar parts for the recent blockbuster biopic ‘Elvis’. In an interview with Guitar World magazine about his role in creating its soundtrack, JD said, "I’m such a fan of Elvis’ music, but also the music of that period and the other stuff we recorded for the film. Sister Rosetta Tharpe, Arthur ‘Big Boy’ Crudup, Muddy Waters, B.B. King – all of that is a big part of my musical DNA.”

Splitting his band SIMO in 2017 and going solo, JD issued a well received 2019 solo debut, ‘Off At 11’, followed by a self-titled 2020 effort that connected the missing link between Woodstock and Motown. His current studio album, ‘Mind Control’, was released in late 2021 and also earned plaudits on both sides of the pond. 

Collaborations with the likes of Jack White, Tommy Emmanuel, Luther Dickinson, Dave Cobb and Blackberry Smoke, as well as time spent as part of Grateful Dead founder Phil Lesh’s ‘Phil & Friends’, have cemented his reputation among guitar music aficionados.

MIND CONTROL
UK REVIEWS
 “JD knows how to blend genres within a guitar trio format. Blues-rock with a late '60s/early '70s edge, ‘Mind Control' is highly recommended 9/10”
GUITAR TECHNIQUES
"Unafraid to take the focus away from his undoubtedly formidable fretwork in search of a more atmospheric, immersive soundscape 8/10”
CLASSIC ROCK
“Mixes things up while keeping the humility and honesty of the blues genre at the forefront of his music”
BLUES MATTERS
“All over the place, which is OK when the places he’s going to are great 9/10”
POWERPLAY

jdsimo.net
facebook.com/jdsimomusic
twitter.com/jdsimomusic
instagram.com/jdsimomusic

FLIGHT ATTENDANT - 'HONEYSWEET' – NEW SINGLE BY NASHVILLE INDIE OUTFIT OUT NOW

FLIGHT ATTENDANT
HONEYSWEET

new single
out 23.09.22
[Moraine Music Group / Membran]

digital services
FLIGHT ATTENDANT - Honeysweet

included on
FLIGHT ATTENDANT
debut album
out 30.09.22

“A fine testament to the development of an exciting new band, 'Flight Attendant’ sees them ready to step out worldwide and spread their heady mix of alternative and heavy rock, glam, grunge and pop. You are strongly advised to check them out”
LOUDER THAN WAR

The Nashville-based indie outfit Flight Attendant have released a brand new single today entitled ‘Honeysweet’, an anthemic song with a dreamy introduction that opens out into a euphoric and memorable chorus. Lead singer and keyboardist Karalyne Winegarner explains that its lyric “is about taking the bitter taste out of life, by being there for your friends to get them past the tough moments and see the good life around them.”

An accompanying performance video is intercut with footage of her and viola player Nikki Christie larking around, Thelma & Louise style, to which Winegarner adds: “As two women starting their journey as professional musicians, we get feedback about our body image, how well we play together, our dancing abilities on stage....you name it. It's enough to send the most confident human being running for retreat. We are determined to not just get past the negativity, but to build from it, take it all in and improve so that we can be the best versions of ourselves. However, you can't do that alone. You gotta have friends.”

‘Honeysweet’ is the latest single to be lifted from the long-awaited and self-titled debut album by Flight Attendant, which is out on 30th September and contains thirteen songs that add viola, piano and synth to the standard guitars/bass/drums mix, with electrifying results. It includes songs that range from the shimmering ‘Paradise’ and exuberant ‘Crybaby’ to the thought-provoking ‘Comedy Show’ and ethereal slow-burner ‘Phosphorescent (Fine Line)', and from the post-punk earworm ‘dogs’ to a solemn rendition of the Americana/blues classic ‘In The Pines’. 

Two other album songs, the pulsatingly hypnotic ‘Man Of Chaos’ and hauntingly reflective ‘Golden Gun’, appear in the noir mystery thriller ‘Find Her’, which will be available from 1st October on multiple platforms including Amazon. A trailer for it can be seen HERE .

Karalyne Winegarner (lead vocals, keyboards, from Kansas City) met Vinny Maniscalco (guitar, vocals, from Boston) while working together at a restaurant in Nashville, with Nikki Christie (viola, vocals, from LA) starting to work there soon after. It didn’t take too many nights of working/drinking together before they decided to form a band. Adding long-time buddy Derek Sprague (drums, also from Boston), the line-up was complete and they soon began playing live and recording.

TurnUpTheVolume have described Flight Attendant as “Warpaint having a dance with Best Coast”, while they have also been compared to iconic artists such as Lana Del Rey, No Doubt and even Fleetwood Mac. The group have been ready for take-off globally since before the pandemic and have a first European tour booked to promote their album, which has been produced by Grammy Award-winning engineer and producer Charles Yingling, who states that “Flight Attendant are at their best when we just roll the tape using our 1978 Trident console."

FLIGHT ATTENDANT
TRACKLISTING
1  Man Of Chaos (3:36)
2  dogs (2:51)
3  Cotton Candy (3:47)
4  Fresh Gasoline (2:57)
5  Teach Me How To Lie (3:24)
6  Paradise (2:45)
7  Honeysweet (3:53)
8  Phosphorescent (Fine Line) (3:35)
9  Crybaby (3:07)
10  Comedy Show (3:07)
11  I Like You (2:37)
12  Golden Gun (2:58)
13  In The Pines (3:47)

FLIGHT ATTENDANT
EUROPEAN TOUR 2022
02.11.22  LEIPZIG (DE) Ilses Erika
03.11.22  BERLIN (DE) Roadrunners Paradise
04.11.22  COTTBUS (DE) Galerie Fango
05.11.22  SLAVONICE (CZ) Inst. Sklep
06.11.22  ŽATEC (CZ) Theatre
07.11.22  MOST (CZ) Benedikt
08.11.22  KLADNO (CZ) Library
11.11.22  ZNOJMO (CZ ) Na Vecn
12.11.22  REGAN (DE) Obserstübchen
16.11.22  KLAGENFURT (AT) Hafenstadt
17.11.22  VIENNA (AT) B72
18.11.22  MÜNCHEN (DE) Lost Weekend
19.11.22  NEU ULM (DE)  Das Gold
20.11.22  OFFENBACH (DE) Hafen 2
21.11.22  BAMBERG (DE) Live Club
24.11.22  OLDENBURG (DE) Polyester Klub
25.11.22  EINBECK (DE) Backpackers Inn
26.11.22  SAARBRÜCKEN (DE) Terminus
28.11.22  AACHEN (DE) Domkeller
01.12.22  HAMBURG (DE) Deichdiele
02.12.22  HAMBURG (DE) BelaMi

FLIGHT ATTENDANT
Karalyne Winegarner - vocals, piano, guitar
Vinny Maniscalco - lead guitar, backing vocals
Nikki Christie - viola, backing vocals
Derek Sprague - drums
+
Michael Cottrell - bass

flightattendantband.com
youtube.com/flightattendantband

BENJAMIN HERMAN KONDIGT NIEUW ALBUM AAN

Amsterdam, 23 september 2022. Vandaag brengt Benjamin Herman de single 'Knife in the Water' uit. Met deze release kondigt de saxofonist ook zijn nieuwe album 'True Love's Flame' aan, waarop hij samenwerkt met zangeres Anna Serierse. Het album verschijnt op 4 november. 

Benjamin Herman is een van de meest bekende en gerespecteerde saxofonisten van Nederland. Als gast artiest is hij te horen op meer dan 150 albums en als solo artiest en bandleider van New Cool Collective bracht hij meer dan 50 albums uit. Hij heeft samen gewerkt met een breed palet aan artiesten van straight ahead jazz tot hiphop en avant garde. Van Dr. John tot Paul Weller en van Han Bennink tot Rein de Graaff. 

Voor zijn nieuwe album werkt Benjamin Herman samen met zangeres Anna Serierse. Serierse komt uit een familie van jazzmuzikanten (Benjamin deelde eerder het podium met haar vader en grootvader) en is een van de meest veelbelovende talenten in de Nederlandse jazzscene. Het samenwerken met Nederlands zangtalent is een rode draad door de carrière van Benjamin Herman, eerder in zijn carrière nam hij al vocalisten als Ruben Hein, Wouter Hamel en Daniel von Piekartz onder zijn vleugels. Met die laatste maakte hij het bejubelde album 'Trouble' dat in 2016 verscheen.

Na zijn zonovergoten ode aan de Citroën SM op 'Project S' (2018) en zijn punk-jazz uitspattingen op Bughouse (2018) kiest Benjamin Herman op zijn nieuwe album 'True Love's Flame' opnieuw voor een sterk thematische aanpak. Tijdens de opnames liet de saxofonist zich inspireren door films van iconische regisseurs als David Lynch en hun bijbehorende soundtracks. Het album varieert van meeslepende interpretaties van soundtracks tot experimentele instrumentale passages en vertolkingen van een aantal van Benjamins favoriete nummers. 

Eerder verscheen al een eerste single 'Time I Moved On'  een nieuwe versie van een klassieker van Georgie Fame en Alan Price, een optimistisch en melancholisch nummer over ontsnappen aan het drukke stadsleven. 
Het volledige album 'True Love's Flame' verschijnt op 4 november, de tweede single 'Knife in the Water' is nu te beluisteren.

Titel: True Love's Flame
Releasedatum: 4 november 2022
Label: Roach Records / Dox Records
Configuratie: Digitaal/CD

WINSTON BELL – ‘THE ZONE’

Bell Music Group

One of the "young lions" making their way into the format, 19 year old sax player Winston Bell returns with a scintillating tune co-produced by Poogie Bell and Jeff Lorber.  With Jeff's trademark vibe and sound supporting Winston's strong tenor sax, this is a fine follow-up to his Phillipe Saisse produced debut single earlier this year ("First Step").

JOHNNY BRITT FEAT. PETER WHITE ‘AFTER WE PLAY’

J-Jams Records is releasing the new single “After We Play” featuring Peter White from the forthcoming 5th studio album by trumpeter/singer Johnny Britt. Britt is thrilled to be joined by smooth jazz icon Peter White on guitar. 

“After We Play” was written, arranged and produced by Johnny Britt mixed by Nils, and mastered by Ron Boustead at Resolution Mastering. This smooth groove with the lush flugelhorn tone and melodies of Johnny Britt combined the acoustic guitar genius of Peter White makes this an incredible collaboration that will make the listener hit rewind over and over again. 

Britt will perform “After We Play” at music festivals nationwide including THE OXNARD JAZZ FESTIVAL 2022, LOMPAC JAZZ FESTIVAL 2022 and the CAPITAL JAZZ SUPER CRUISE 2023 amongst other upcoming scheduled events. 

“After We Play” ft. Peter White

Johnny Britt – Flugelhorn, trumpet and keyboards 

Peter White – Acoustic Guitar 

Marcus Williams – Drums 

Dean Mark – Bass 

Sean J Lawson – Percussion 

NEW SINGLE FROM BYRON MILLER ‘SAY IT AIN’T GOOD TO YA’

“And, lo, in times of incessant challenge, and strife, there is always a groove to soothe in a drop top `neath the Motor City moonlight.” Thus, arrives electric bass master Byron Miller, a.k.a. PsychoBass, with his fully test-driven first single, “Say it Ain’t Good to Ya,” from the forthcoming fourth CD in his PsychoBass series: Motor City Love. The song is going for adds at radio on September 19. 

Cruise groove at its most funkadiciously relaxed, “Say it Ain’t Good to Ya” creeps up on the listener like the Batmobile in stealth mode with zip zero aural waste – just great taste. The jam was sent expressly to Byron by longtime collaborator Chris “Big Dog’ Davis with only him in mind. “Big Dog Facetimed me talkin’ `bout how hard he had studied my work with George Duke,” Byron shares. “Then he sent me this track. And as soon as I started playing on it…I knew. I played it for a few of my inside crew then for some trusted folks at radio. They all strongly suggested that it should be the first single from my new album.”

What makes this highly unusual and praiseworthy by PsychoBass standards is that Byron Miller usually produces and at least co-writes all of his music. But he’s also been around long enough to know that when its right, its right. Davis’ judicious use of piano, guitars, keyboards and rhythm set the table for Miller to grace with bass in layers of wonder in conversation with himself as well as the listener. Why tamper with perfection? The song embodies the feeling of piling into the whip with the homies as the night breeze cools your head and the sounds of WJZZ blow cool in your ears. 

“Say it Ain’t Good to Ya” is the perfect lead-in to PsychoBass 4: Motor City Love, an album that celebrates Byron Miller’s roots in and love for Detroit, Michigan – its power, its soul and its resilience. The album will feature cats such as keyboardist Herman Jackson, guitarist Paul Jackson Jr. and saxophonist Walter Beasley for whom Miller recently produced his album, Meet Me at My Place.  

So lay back deep and get all the way into “Say it Ain’ Good to Ya” – a song so coldblooded, you won’t even be able to say the song title while the record is on.

KIM WATERS DOES A ‘JOY DANCE’

Smooth Urban Jazz superstar Kim Waters has sold over two million albums in his more than 20 years of touring and recording. Loved by R&B and Jazz fans alike, his crossover appeal, Smooth Jazz #1 radio hits, and dynamic performances have placed him among the elite in his field. His new album That Special Touch has special significance to the artist because the album features the young smooth jazz hit maker, Kim's daughter Kayla! The energy and joy of this occasion have inspired and elevated Kim's writing and playing to new heights! Highlights include Kim and Kayla's dream-like remake of Adele's smash hit "Go Easy On Me," the ebullient first radio single "Joy Dance," the intensely pulsating "House Call," and more Kim Waters originals!

Heralded as “Simply one of the planet’s best saxophonists” by JazzTimes Magazine and the “Pied piper of Smooth Jazz” by Upscale Magazine, the prolific chart-topping saxophonist, composer and producer has enjoyed a career longevity that is rare in the music business. For three decades, Waters has reigned as one of the premier architects of Urban Smooth Jazz and a beacon of light in Contemporary Jazz. He‘s garnered praise from critics and fans alike, ranking among the top five best-selling instrumentalists in jazz.  

Waters has sold over two million albums in his more than 20 years of touring and recording. Loved by R&B and Jazz fans alike, his crossover appeal, Smooth Jazz #1 radio hits, and dynamic performances have placed him among the elite in his field.

CONTEMPORARY JAZZ GUITARIST RICHARD SMITH CONTINUES THE LEGACY OF GROOVE

The new single, “Groove Assets,” which goes for playlist adds on October 3, was produced by his former student, hitmaker Adam Hawley.

LOS ANGELES (21 September 2022): Whether he’s teaching at USC’s Thornton School of Music or abroad in such diverse locations as Tokyo, Kuala Lumpur, Hong Kong, Manila, London, Oslo, Amsterdam, Helsinki, Palermo, Rome or Bueno Aires, contemporary jazz guitarist Richard Smith gets asked about playing in the groove. So much so that the globetrotter thinks that playing in the pocket may be America’s greatest cultural export musically. Recorded in London, Amsterdam and Los Angeles, Smith’s new single, “Groove Assets,” captures that soulful sound with the aid of one of his former students, multi-time Billboard chart-topping guitarist Adam Hawley, who produced and cowrote the song with his former professor.

"I've found that no matter where I go in the world, I hear American popular music - R&B, hip hop, soul and jazz - coming out of restaurants, bars, cars and classrooms as much or more as the indigenous music. The minute I come back to the States and fire up my Los Angeles band, it hits me: the groove, lock, pocket, and soulfulness that is embedded so deeply in our American music culture. When I teach or give masterclasses abroad, they want to know about what ‘playing in the pocket’ is, as if it is a mysterious, elusive phenomenon. And it IS a cultural phenomenon that comes out of our deep and diverse musical heritage. So, I have developed a lot of classes around that, sort of a how to lock-it-up and groove. I say that one of the best musical ‘assets’ that they can have is groove assets,” said Smith about his inspiration for the single.

“Groove Assets” has a certain laid back, chill quality to the midtempo groove fronted by Smith’s cool electric jazz guitar licks, which are embellished by Hawley’s rhythm guitar harmonies. Bolted to a taut rhythmic pocket crafted by drummer Eric Valentine and bassist Mel Brown, the song’s cowriter Tico Pierhagen adds keyboard melodies. Trumpeter Michael Stever architects the lush horn arrangements that form a proscenium around the R&B groove.

Smith has been traveling internationally since he was seven and for most of the last twenty years, he’s taught and performed each year in Europe. The guitarist has served as a visiting professor of contemporary jazz and popular music at major music conservatories and academies all over the world, which he’s been doing since he was in his twenties. He was one of the youngest tenured professors at USC’s Thornton School of Music where he created the world’s first doctorate program in contemporary guitar. That’s where he first connected with Hawley, whom he calls a “success story.” 

Shortly after the pandemic hit in 2020, Smith was diagnosed with stage four throat cancer. To divert his mind, he reached out to Hawley to help him write and produce a few singles. “Groove Asset” is their third collaboration.

“The first two songs (“Let’s Roll” and “Soul Share”) we did together were hits, and it feels like we are onto another one with 'Groove Assets'. There is no greater pleasure or prouder moment in a jazz professor's life than the act of hiring a former student for the incredibly important job of producing a single. I am a very lucky, proud soul indeed,” beamed Smith, whose cancer is in complete remission.

"We train jazz and rock stars. I am super proud of all our students who have gone on to play with Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock, John Legend, Gwen Stefani, Marc Anthony, Thundercat, Justin Bieber, Michael Bublé, Jason Mraz, Elton John, Madonna, Bono, Maroon 5, Jennifer Lopez, John Mayer, and on hit television programs ‘American Idol’ and ‘Glee’ to name a few."  

Smith was a student at USC when he attended the last masterclass given by Spanish classical guitar great Andre Segovia, which had a lasting impact.

“The Maestro said many profound things, but the one that really stuck with me and guided my life was ‘When you teach, you learn twice.’ That, and the fact that my mother, father, cousins, aunts and uncles were all professors at schools like Oxford, MIT, Oberlin, Tufts, Hong Kong, UCLA, Michigan and Liverpool guided me toward university life as my recording and performing career grew. It has all been something of a mission,” said Smith who plans to perform next summer in England, Holland, Greece and Italy.

“Our (America’s) jazz and popular music are our greatest cultural export, and I am proud to be an ambassador for that.”

Closer to home, Smith will be a featured performer alongside Greg Adams and East Bay Soul at the Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival on October 22.

For more information, please visit www.richardsmithguitar.com.

SARO COSENTINO - 'THE JOKE FEAT. PETER HAMMILL' – VIDEO FOR SONG BY ITALIAN COMPOSER-PRODUCER FEATURING PROG LEGEND

SARO COSENTINO - 2022 photo

SARO COSENTINO
THE JOKE
feat PETER HAMMILL

from the album
THE ROAD TO NOW
LP / CD / digital
out 07.10.22
[Cat Sounds]

pre-order / pre-save
HERE

‘The Joke’ was recently made available as a teaser song from the new album by the Italian composer and producer Saro Cosentino. Co-written with prog legend Peter Hammill and featuring his distinctive lead vocal, it is full of portent with a lyric about the corporate greed and consumer habits that directly affect climate change. A video for it has been issued today that Cosentino says “is pretty self-explanatory. Only a fool would set fire to his own home, but that is what we are doing. We are on a path of self destruction and need to change our priorities and reconsider our values as a society without having ‘produce/consume/die’ as a motto.”

The third solo album by Cosentino, 'The Road To Now' features singers Peter Hammill (on four songs), Tim Bowness (of No Man) and Karen Eden, plus instrumental contributions from the likes of Gavin Harrison, David Rhodes, John Giblin and Trey Gunn. Available on heavyweight colour vinyl, CD and digital formats, it is the long-awaited follow-up to 1997’s acclaimed ‘Ones And Zeros’.

Born in Rome but currently based in Prague, Cosentino formed a blues outfit in his late teens but soon became more interested in experimental and electronic music, beginning a lengthy association with the popular Italian singer-songwriter Franco Battiato, who had been juggling his own love of the avant-garde with record company pressure to produce ‘hits’. The duo co-wrote Italy’s entry to the 1984 Eurovision Song Contest (which Battiato performed in the competition) and collaborated on two operas later in the decade.

Cosentino released a self-titled debut solo album on EMI in 1988 prior to successfully dividing his time between composing film/TV soundtracks and writing for/producing numerous international artists that have included Peter Hammill, David Rhodes, Tim Bowness, Pandit Dinesh, Tony Levin, Natasha Atlas, Jakko Jakszyk and Gavin Harrison, as well as further work with Battiato plus other compatriots such as Milva and Alice.

'The Road To Now' was recorded in the UK and US as well as at Cosentino’s own studio in Prague, with final mixing taking place at Real World in Bath. The opening 'You’re The Story' sees the soothing voice of Tim Bowness matched with a suitably sumptuous yet melancholic backdrop, followed immediately by 'The Joke', the first of four superb songs featuring the unmistakable tones of legendary prog singer Peter Hammill. ‘November’ (on which Bowness provides a backing vocal) is a tale of long lost love, the outstanding 'Time To Go' contemplates the very end of the road (hopefully a long time from now), while the closing 'When Your Parents Danced' considers the first central figures in one’s life in their younger days, ‘before life’s stories made them what they’ve become’.

Having contributed to 'Ones and Zeros', as well as records by the likes of William Orbit and Chris Rea, the versatile Australian singer Karen Eden returns to perform on two contrasting tracks; the portentous sounding ‘Pray' and (by way of contrast to everything else on the record), the pop song 'Us (Scars on Skin)'. The album also contains the instrumental ‘Howl', which switches from strident to atmospheric midway through and showcases the skills of the musicians involved.

THE ROAD TO NOW
TRACKLISTING
1 You’re The Story (feat Tim Bowness)
2 The Joke (feat Peter Hammill)
3 Pray (feat Karen Eden)
4 November (feat Peter Hammill & Tim Bowness)
5 US (Scars on Skin) (feat Karen Eden)
6 Time To Go (feat Peter Hammill)
7 Howl
8 When Your Parents Danced (feat Peter Hammill)

MUSICIANS
Peter Hammill - vocals, guitar
Tim Bowness - vocals, backing vocals
Karen Eden - vocals
Dorota Barova - cello, vocals
Gavin Harrison - drums
John Giblin - bass
David Rhodes - guitar
Trey Gunn - waar guitar
Nicola Alesini - saxophone
Radim Knapp - trumpet
Saro Cosentino - guitars, keyboards, bass, strings, piano, arrangements, programming, sound design

sarocosentino.bandcamp.com

CROBOT BRENGEN EEN NIEUWE MUZIEKVIDEO UIT VOOR ‘GOLDEN’!

Via Mascot Records/Mascot Label Group
  
IN NOV/DEC GAAN CROBOT OP TOUR IN EUROPA TER SUPPORT VAN AIRBOURNE
16 dec – Cirque Royal, Brussel, BE
19 dec – 013, Tilburg, NL

Vandaag hebben Crobot en Mascot Records/ Mascot Label Group de officiële muziekvideo voor "Golden" uitgebracht. Zanger Brandon Yeagley deelt, “’Golden’ is a soaring homage to a God-gone-too soon. When it came to the lyrics, we collectively wanted it to be a tribute to Chris Cornell.  We are so influenced by everything he and Soundgarden have done. We ran with the song in honor of his legacy."

Na de release van hun nieuwste album Feel This, heeft Crobot een reeks Britse en Europese tourdata aangekondigd ter support van Airbourne en Blues Pills. Tickets zijn hier verkrijgbaar: https://crobotband.com/#tour
 
Onze favoriete groove-rockers stappen op de feestbus met Airbourne en Blues Pills en rijden door Frankrijk, Spanje, Italië, Zwitserland, Duitsland, Oostenrijk, België, Nederland en de UK - met een headline stop off onderweg in Tsjechië.
 
Over deze aankomende tour zegt zanger Brandon Yeagley, “It’s been a long time coming but we’re so excited to set fire to foreign stages with the power of the riff. Our pals in Airbourne have put together one ace line-up alongside Blues Pills to ensure we can turn off all of our cares and riff until the sun comes up! Well, at least until the venues kick us out!”
 
Tour Dates 
28 Nov – Zenith, Paris, FRANCE w/Airbourne & Blues Pills
01 Dec - Vistalegre Arean, Madrid, SPAIN w/Airbourne & Blues Pills
02 Dec – Sant Jordi, Barcelona, SPAIN w/Airbourne & Blues Pills
03 Dec – Cubec, Bilbao, SPAIN w/Airbourne & Blues Pills
05 Dec – Alcatrazz, Milan, ITALY w/Airbourne & Blues Pills
06 Dec – Halle 622, Zurich, SWITZERLAND w/Airbourne & Blues Pills
07 Dec – Zenith, Munich, GERMANY w/Airbourne & Blues Pills
09 Dec – Gasometer, Berlin, GERMANY w/Airbourne & Blues Pills
10 Dec – Columbiahalle, Berlin, GERMANY w/Airbourne & Blues Pills
11 Dec – Strahov 007, Prague, CZECH REPUBLIC
12 Dec – Porche Arena, Stuggart, GERMANY w/Airbourne & Blues Pills
14 Dec – Palladium, Cologne, GERMANY w/Airbourne & Blues Pills
15 Dec – Stadthalle, Hamburg, GERMANY w/Airbourne & Blues Pills
16 Dec – Cirque Royal, Brussels, BELGIUM w/Airbourne & Blues Pills
19 Dec – 013, Tilburg, NETHERLANDS w/Airbourne & Blues Pills
21 Dec – Victoria Warehouse, Manchester, UK w/Airbourne & Blues Pills
22 Dec – Brixton Academy, London, UK w/Airbourne & Blues Pills

Crobot Online:
https://crobotband.com/ 
facebook.com/Crobotband 
instagram.com/crobotband/ 
twitter.com/Crobotband 

STEVEN DAYVID McKELLAR - 'NAMA' – NEW ALBUM OF ATMOSPHERIC ELECTRONICA BY FORMER FRONTMAN OF CIVIL TWILIGHT

STEVEN DAYVID McKELLAR photo by Lauren Stocker

STEVEN DAYVID McKELLAR
NAMA

new album
out 20.09.22
[Sonic Ritual]

digital services
lnk.to/NAMA

includes the singles
ONE AND ZERO

digital services
lnk.to/OneAndZero
+
STOP RUNNING
digital services
lnk.to/StopRunning

“Startling….falls somewhere between Four Tet and Thom Yorke’s work with Atoms For Peace”
UNDER THE RADAR
“Its structure and rich instrumentation recalls ‘Amnesiac’/
'Kid A' era Radiohead”
MXDWN
“If you like your electronic pop dark and mysterious, you can’t go wrong with Steven Dayvid McKellar”
RELEASE

The former Civil Twilight vocalist and songwriter Steven Dayvid McKellar has just returned with ‘NAMA’, the follow up to his 2020 debut solo album ‘ETHIO’. Having left Nashville just prior to its recording, it was made in his new apartment in Los Angeles while the pandemic raged outside; a fitting backdrop for a record implicitly concerned with staring our deepest emotions in the face.

Deftly self-produced, ‘NAMA’ is a musical self-psychoanalysis; coaxed and arranged into song form, it is a meditative coming-to-terms with the deep recesses of humanity. A short and sweet seven song recording, it was made with a Juno synth, vocals and drum machine, occasionally accompanied by bass, classical guitar and the interwoven percussion of ordinary household items. Additional instrumentation was provided by friend and occasional bandmate Bucky Shorts. However, despite its seemingly restrictive minimalism, ‘NAMA’ is nevertheless teeming with dense atmosphere, layers of crunchy trance beats and haunting melodies.

From the minimal electronic heartbreak of its opener ‘One and Zero’ to the haunted claustrophobia of ‘Stop Running’ and the fractured beauty of the closing ‘Edge Of The Garden’, ‘NAMA’ balances introspection with an outward push into the unknown.

With Civil Twilight, McKellar had seen life on the big screen, leading the South African rock band through a successful run that saw them share stages with the likes of Smashing Pumpkins, Florence + the Machine, Jimmy Eat World and Silversun Pickups, while their songs were placed in TV shows such as One Tree Hill, House and Terminator: The Sarah Connor Chronicles. Now releasing music on his own terms, McKellar remains as creative as ever.

NAMA
TRACKLISTING
1  One and Zero
2  Nama Wind
3  Slow Fade
4  Stop Running
5  Pull Away
6  Trillion Tiny Waves
7  Edge Of The Garden

facebook.com/stevendayvidmckellar
stevendayvidmckellar.com

BELLE SCAR - 'WHERE DO WE BEGIN' – NEW SINGLE BY DISTINCTIVE SINGER-SONGWRITER

BELLE SCAR
WHERE DO WE BEGIN 

new single
out 23.09.22

digital services [pre-save]
lnk.to/9n5Lt2

FOR FANS OF
NICK CAVE / DANNY ELFMAN / ZOLA JESUS

 LIVE IN LONDON
23.09.22
SADLER’S WELLS THEATRE
tickets

Captivating, glamorous and bold, Belle Scar is a distinctive singer-songwriter, producer and artistic director from Montreal who has been based in London for the last decade. Described by the New York Times as “a creature from another dimension, she’s phenomenal,” her dramatic, cinematic music is at times redolent of a Tim Burton film score and at others of a mash-up between Nick Cave, David Bowie and Portishead. Recent live dates in the capital have seen her perform sold out shows at St Pancras Old Church and artsdepot with a full band including strings and choir, with her latest show taking place at Sadler’s Wells Theatre on 23rd September. A limited number of tickets are still available HERE .

Scar’s songs are often melancholic yet joyously beautiful, but all are imbued with a passion and depth that take listeners on an emotional journey with her uniquely powerful voice at its centre. Her new single, ‘Where Do We Begin’, which is about maintaining one’s sanity in the fearful uncertainty of the present day, comes across like Marianne Faithfull and Sinead O’Connor performing at a Weimar cabaret accompanied by an orchestra and choir. An international affair, it was recorded at Plastic Sound Studios in London and produced/mixed by French musician Marc O, with guest appearances from renowned Finnish rock bassist Sami Yaffa, French drummer Christophe Deschamps and Italian opera soprano Francesca Matta.

‘Where Do We Begin’ is the first single to be issued from a new album due out in early 2023. Having previously released an album of dark electronic pop entitled ‘Light Bulbs’ (2015), Scar was keen to explore a different direction. Loving the inherent magic in film scores by composers such as Ennio Morricone, Danny Elfman and John Williams, she decided to write songs containing a wider range of  instrumentation and more complex arrangements. This became a collaboration with her husband, the rock musician and producer Marc O (Olivier), whose roots were as a classically trained musician in Paris prior to his own relocation to London.

With Scar writing the music, lyrics and choir arrangements and Olivier orchestrating and producing, the duo strove to create a unique atmosphere for each individual song. The result is a mesmerising album about beginnings and endings, change, and finding meaning in both the beauty and darkness that is life's journey.

bellescar.com