Jazz Pianist/Composer Tom Wetmore Debuts with “The Desired Effect” Jan. 17

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Composer, Jazz, Keyboards, Piano, Tom Wetmore

The buoyant grooves and graceful melodies heard on the forthcoming CD “The Desired Effect” serve to introduce a fresh new voice in jazz—Tom Wetmore, whose Crosstown Records will release the pianist/composer’s exceptional debut, “The Desired Effect,” on January 17.

Tom Wetmore, The Desired Effect

The 29-year-old Massachusetts native has been active on the New York scene since 2005, leading his own traditional jazz trio as well as his eclectic sextet. He’s also performed and/or recorded with Clark Terry, Slide Hampton, T.K. Blue, Bernard Purdie, and the fine contemporary players showcased on his new disc.

Its nine tracks feature a uniquely voiced frontline of alto saxophone and two lead guitars, with Wetmore playing electric Rhodes piano throughout, utilizing time signatures that shift frequently within each composition. “It’s really two lead guitars,” he says of the frontline. “There’s no rhythm guitar. When I compose I think of the guitars and sax as contrapuntal voices, and it really allows for some interesting explorations.”

Gail Jhonson =]|[= HERSTORY [111 East Jazz Records]

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African American, Gail Jhonson, Jazz, Keyboards

Gail Jhonson - Herstory

Gail Jhonson =]|[= HERSTORY -(MP3)- [111 East Jazz Records, 2011]

Herstory, is the fourth CD from Gail Jhonson, the First Lady of Smooth Jazz. She says, …”My story begins with her story…this is dedicated to you Mom!’

The music blends jazz, R&B and soul. It kicks off with Make It Happen, an uptempo, funky live trio. Electric Lady reveals her synthesizer work on the keytar , a treat for fusion fans. Crusin‘ After Dark , a summertime jam with guest trumpeter Lin Rountree. Still Care About Me, if you ever been in love, you’ll understand this passionate vocal feature by Ms Jhonson. The journey continues with a tribute to her son Aaron aka Vein, with a smooth midtempo bass performance from Dwayne “Smitty” Smith and sweet vocals by daughter Tamina on Dear Aaron. The title cut , HerStory, produced by Chuck Jefferson pumps your heart & makes you understand that this lady has something for you to feel. After that ballad whoo’s you, jump back into swing with saxophonist Tom Braxton on Do Something Else, whose partial proceeds benefit The Do Foundation. This One, great smooth jazz top tappin’ listen, nice duet with Lin Rountree. For You Mom, the soul searching solo piano piece dedicated to the lady that was a loving inspiration to her daughter, so she could someday tell her story…in music. American Boy features the feminine side of jazz with Jazz In P!nk, a lively rendition of the hit single. The bonus track Dee‘s Dance, named for her mother is reminiscent of early contemporary jazz and her Philly musical roots.

Jhonson invites you to experience a musical journey of a woman who brings you smooth jazz with a feminine touch~

John Escreet -]|[- THE AGE WE LIVE [Mythology Records]

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Jazz, John Escreet, Keyboards, Piano

John Escreet - THE AGE WE LIVE IN

John Escreet -]|[- THE AGE WE LIVE -(MP3)- [Mythology Records, 2011]

John Escreet – Pianist/composer b. Doncaster, England, 1984.

Since moving to New York in 2006, John Escreet has had a powerful impact, and has emerged as one of the most creative and original pianists on the music scene there. He is highly revered amongst his peers for his creativity, openness and for his own original music, which draws inspiration from many different sources, and encompasses them all and much more.

He leads his own group ‘The John Escreet Project’ which is described by the New York Times as “a superb band”, and which features some of the most exciting and forward-thinking improvising musical talents on the New York jazz scene – David Binney (alto saxophone), Ambrose Akinmusire (trumpet), Matt Brewer (double bass) and Nasheet Waits (drums).

His second album ‘Don’t Fight The Inevitable’ was recorded with this group, and released in June 2010 on Mythology Records, and quickly received widespread critical acclaim. Prior to that, John’s highly anticipated debut album ‘Consequences’ was released in September 2008, and received a similar avalanche of praise and attention from musicians and critics alike. —BIO – (John Escreet)

John Escreet | THE AGE WE LIVE – Released: 6/14/2011

..:: SOURCE: Johnescreet.com | Two for The Show.com ::..

Bob Baldwin -][- Newurbanjazz.Com 2 / Re-Vibe [TRIPPIN N RHYTHM]

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African American, Bob Baldwin, Jazz, Keyboards

Bob Baldwin -][- Newurbanjazz.Com 2 / Re-Vibe [TRIPPIN N RHYTHM, 2011]

Bob Baldwin - NUJ.com2-Re-Vibe

Over more than two decades and 16 records, Bob Baldwin has carved out and more than solidified his place as one of the chief progenitors of true urban jazz. When you listen to Baldwin s cutes, more than just hearing, you feel them as he has long had a way of digging deep into your soul and touching that inner sweet spot. NUJ.com 2/Re-Vibe showcases Baldwin in the thick of his element fusing funky contemporary jazz with gospel, hip hop and Brazilian all with a strong dose of heavy urban flavors.

2 carries the torch where the first edition left off, featuring Baldwin s urban jazz influences, where strains of Stevie Wonder co-exist nicely with rich lush full bodied vibes reminiscent of a Quincy Jones. Tracks like Metro with its underlying angst and rollicking Tower of Power funk, with tasty filsl by AWB Sax Sideman Freddy V, sets the hook. The reeling in continues with the deep set grooves of Get Over It and pulls you further into shore with the satisfying feel good side For Grover and George , a tip of the hat to the late Grover Washington Jr. and George Howard featuring sax by Darren Rahn. Your R&B itch will be scratched with the tracks Are You Ready by Atlantic Starr co-founder and drummer/songwriter Porter Carroll, Jr. and All Over You , featuring the gritty and powerhouse voice of Glenn Jones. The is set rounded out by the contagious, atmospheric Arabian Sweets a swinging Arabic vibe set to a hip-hop beat an idea born out of a recent trip to Dubai.

Bob Baldwin fans will rejoice at the arrival of this his finest work to date and the early buzz on the streets indicates hat this New UrbanJazz.com 2/Re-Vibe will re-invigorate not only his massive following but continue to build upon it.

..:: SOURCE: Amazon.com ::..

Chris Taylor -[|]- NOCTURNAL [Abstract Logix]

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Chris Taylor, Guitar, Jazz, Keyboards

Chris Taylor - NOCTURNAL

Chris Taylor -[|]- NOCTURNAL -(MP3)- [Abstract Logix, 2011]

Chris Taylor (Guitar and Keyboards) Gary Novak (Drums), Dave Weckl (Drums), Joel Rosenblatt (Drums) and Kirk Covington (Drums), keyboardists George Whitty (Keyboards) and Scott Kinsey (Keyboards), Ric Fierabracci (Bass) and Gary Haase (Bass), Steve Tavaglione (Sax, EWI).

Seemingly from out of nowhere, New York-based guitarist-composer Chris Taylor has emerged after nearly 30 years on the scene with a brilliant, fully-realized first album as a leader. And though it’s been a long time in coming, Nocturnal may be the most auspicious debut of the year.

Lorenzo Johnson -][- THINGS ARE LOOKING UP [Zosmooth Records]

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African American, Jazz, Keyboards, Lorenzo Johnson

Lorenzo Johnson - THINGS ARE LOOKING UP

Lorenzo Johnson -][- THINGS ARE LOOKING UP -(MP3)- [Zosmooth Records, 2011]

There is no doubt that Lorenzo Johnson is a multi-talented musician. This native of Alexandria, VA developed a love of music at an early age. His energy and passion led him to begin writing lyrics, composing, organizing vocal groups, bands, directing, managing and producing. It was evident that he had a natural talent and creativity and was well on his way to making a name for himself and leaving a mark in music.

Through the years, Lorenzo has continued to learn and master his craft through hard work and dedication. He studied at the Omega Studios School of Applied Recording Arts and Sciences. In addition, he attended the University of the District of Columbia and Northern Virginia Community College.

Lorenzo’s drive has earned him an impressive list of accomplishments. He has produced and written on four Top 10 albums. He has recorded with Ledisi, Maysa, Salt N’ Pepper, Tony Terry, U.S. Naval Academy Gospel Choir and Black Entertainment Television (BET) and many more. He has performed with world-renowned artists including Ledisi,CeCe Peniston, Regina Belle, Biz Markie, Chuck Brown, Mr. Cheeks, Glenn Jones, Twinkie Clark, Norman Hutchins to name a few.

Finally, he takes a leap with his solo debut “Things Are Looking Up.” This project is funky, jazzy,romantic,and upbeat. If you love Ledisi, Boney James and George Duke you will love this project.

..:: SOURCE: CDBaby.com ::..

Paul Hardcastle -][- DESIRE [TRIPPIN & RHYTHM]

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Keyboards, Paul Hardcastle

Paul Hardcastle - DESIRE

Paul Hardcastle -][- DESIRE – [TRIPPIN & RHYTHM, 2011]

The timing could not be more perfect for the release of ‘Desire’- in time for the Valentine’s holiday. Long considered the purveyor of sexy and sensual sides, Hardcastle gathers many of his most intimate soundscapes from the past 20 years, complimented by three brand new tracks, ‘Valentines,’ featuring the vocals of daughter Maxine, ‘Ready or Not,’ and ‘Dont You Know (Ibiza Chill Mix),’ the sum of which is, as the title suggest, the ultimate album of seduction.

Named after one of the most popular hits, ‘Desire’ seems the apt title for the assemblage of songs rife with feeling and emotion that will surely provide the perfect soundtrack for any holiday or occasion that speaks of feelings for a loved one. A must have for Hardcastle fans and lovers alike. –TRIPPIN & RHYTHM | Amazon

..:: Source: Amazon.com ::..

Nate Harasim ]|[ RUSH [TRIPPIN & RHYTHM]

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Keyboards, Nate Harasim

Nate Harasim - RUSH

Nate Harasim ]|[ RUSH – [TRIPPIN & RHYTHM, 2011]

Not one to be quiet about making an entrance, producer/keyboardist Nate Harasim’s Trippin N’ Rhythm label debut, is one sure to place him firmly in the new class and crop of emerging talent, highlighted by a cameo vocal performance from young Maxine Hardcastle daughter of mega-hit maker Paul Hardcastle.

With Harasim’s recent 30 minute performance showcase on Fox news Detroit, writing and producing the theme song for the 2010 American Smooth Jazz Awards and coming off an 8 week run at #1 on the National radio charts with ‘Fun In The Sun,’ a track he produced for guitarist Steve Oliver, the media and radio in unison, have taken notice of his burgeoning talent. Rush highlights the many sides of a young man with a keen ear, serious chops, strong pop sensibilities and displays his break out of the box mentality and his willingness to the push the envelope.

With assists from label mates Cindy Bradley and Darren Rahn and a payback from Steve Oliver, Rush is a soulful, fresh and funky ride through 11 sparkling sides, yet one that as the title suggests, you won’t want to rush through but take your time to savor the journey.

..:: Source: Amazon.com ::..

The Dara Quinn Project -][- THIS WAY, THAT WAY

Tags

Dara Quinn, Jazz, Keyboards

The Dara Quinn Project - THIS WAY, THAT WAY

The Dara Quinn Project -][- THIS WAY, THAT WAY – [Indie, 2010]

Dara Quinn brings influences of jazz, funk, Latin and world music to her keyboard playing. A native Northwesterner, Dara spent over 10 years aggressively touring the West Coast based out of Seattle. After 2 years touring with a steel drum ensemble heavy on world rhythms, she formed Rockin’ Teenage Combo with Seattleites Paul Kemmish on upright and electric bass and Oliver Klomp on drums. This hard jazz fusion trio had quite a buzz on the West Coast and aggressively toured venues from San Diego to Bellingham and as far East as Bozeman, MT. RTC also became a Seattle favorite and played venues such as Jazz Alley, the Experience Music Project, Bumbershoot, Hempfest and more. Dara’s keyboard playing has crossed many genres from avante garde with “The Oxygen Project” to live dance and funk with Skerik (Critters Buggin) and Reggie Watts (Maktub) in “Das Rut” and “Ghoul Booty”.

Dara Quinn’s unique flavor in her improvisations and rhythmic tendencies has earned her the honor to jam with such greats as Les Claypool (Primus), Stanton Moore (Galactic), Jessica Lurie (Living Daylights), Tony Levin, Reggie Watts and countless other fantastic musicians.

..:: Source: CDBaby.com ::..

Eumir Deodato -][- The Crossing [101 DISTRIBUTION]

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Eumir Deodato, Keyboards

E. Deodato - THE CROSSING

Eumir Deodato -][- THE CROSSING – [101 DISTRIBUTION, 2010]

The Brazilian-born multi-instrumentalist Eumir Deodato has had and outstanding career for a recording artist, however most fans associate with his unique rendition of Richard Strauss’ classical “Opus Also Sprach Zarathustra.”

Actually it’s been years since I’ve heard any new material by the composer. Fortunately, the gifted Deodato arrives just in time to bring sexy back in the mix with another impeccable, cool and smooth template of Brazilian sounds titled THE CROSSING. This collection of songs features the incomparable Al Jarreau, John Tropea, Novecento, Billy Cobham and Airto Moreira.

These distinctive voices armed with immeasurable talent join their collective souls seamlessly into one cohesive unit to eventually exhale into a symphony of relevant, intoxicating and refreshing gems to brighten up the closing of the 2010 season. —Rob Young | The Urban Flux