Season’s Greetings | 2008

Tags

African Americans, Culture, Jazz, Latin Jazz, New Music

"Happy Holidays"

Milton Nascimento & The Jobim Trio [Brazilian]

Tags

Brazilian, Jobim, New Music

Milton Nascimento & The Jobim Trio | Novas Bossas

Milton Nascimento

Tom Jobim was the originator of the new Bossa Nova beat in Brazil in the late 50’s and it was Joao Gilberto that first mastered the guitar technique to introduce it to the world in 58. They both said that Milton Nascimento was the only singer that could reach the original pitch of the compositions and so it is entirely fitting that he has teamed up here with Tom’s son Paulo and grandson Daniel for a recording session to celebrate both Tom Jobim and the anniversary of his invention of the Bossa Nova. Mixing songs by Tom Jobim, Milton Nascimento and Daniel Jobim, this is a true master class in the art of the Bossa and a new milestone in Brazilian music. An important, as well as a sublime release. – Amazon.com

Aaron Parks -|- Invisible Cinema [Review]

Tags

Blue Note Records, Contemporary Jazz, Jazz Fusion, New Music, Piano

Aaron Parks

Pianist, child prodigy, computer whiz, composer, arranger and virtuoso Aaron Parks makes his Blue Note Records debut with “Invisible Cinema.” After my first encounter, I took a deep breath, shy in wonderment of how I would attempt to unfold into words what this young pianist Aaron Parks has embarked upon. His indescribable harmonic tones, melodies and abstract arrangements lay in the path of a seemingly dark world of Cinematic explorations, are is it an “invisible exploration” from the prolific vision and genius of Aaron Parks.

Let’s meet his supporting cast that shapes this remarkable palette of music features guitarist – Mike Moreno, bassist – Matt Penman and drummer – Eric Harland. With this quartet, you may or not have heard of them. Nonetheless, they are impeccable group of artists drawn from within this body of a-list players that makes his music work effectively.

Andre Delano | My So Fine [Review]

Tags

African American, New Music, Saxophone, Smooth Jazz, Soul Music

Andre Delano, "My So Fine"

After his successful debut “Full Circle,” back in ’05 as well as his follow up album called “First Christmas” in ’06. HBCU {Jackson State University) grad and Nu Groove Records recording artist Andre Delano, returns with his another deliciously smooth, sax filled, soulful, enjoyable, and sexy third offering affectionately titled “My So Fine.” Delano explains why he do what he do, “A lot of people say that the saxophone is a very sexy instrument. “My So Fine” is an album that is all about love’s sexiness. My challenge on this one was to see just how sexy the saxophone could be.” Once you hear and judge for yourself how sexy Dre depicts each note that mesmerizes and validates his purpose for playing his horn on these selections: “More Than Words Can Say, College Sweetheart, and Get To You.”

Ladie’s in Jazz [Instrumentally Speaking]

Tags

African American, Ladie's in Jazz, New Music

Hello everyone, it’s great to have you back from another sweet weekend excursion. For years the question has and continues loom within our heads about where are the female instrumentalist in jazz? I think back to the early seventies and recall the immense talents of Patrice Rushen, Bobbi Humphrey, Hilary, Lesette Wilson and soon thereafter emerged the talented Sheila E. Terri Lyne Carrington, Rachel Z, Cindy Blackman, Eliane Elias, Regina Carter, Hiromi and of course a host of others.

In the meantime, we’ve been nudged as a reminder to listen and to pay homage to a few gifted female instrumentalist. Perhaps, most of you have already been blessed by the music of these talented ladies listed below. However, we gladly extend and invitation to you to recommend artist you think are noteworthy to other jazz lovers. We appreciate and thank you in advance for your generosity.

Tia Fuller – Healing Space

Tia Fuller, "Healing Space"

An uplifting spirit ignites Healing Space from the get-go on “Breakthrough,” a bristling post-Motown bop excursion that not only highlights Fuller’s bold and sassy alto tone and serpentine-like improvisations but also her invigorating interaction with her band mates, especially trumpeter and label-mate Sean Jones, who has featured her on his three Mack Avenue discs, Roots, Gemini, and Eternal Journey. Her sanguinity sparkles on the following “Just a Journey,” a billowing mid-tempo groove, written by her sister Shamie Fuller-Royston, that shows that Fuller is just as commanding on the soprano saxophone as she is on alto. Fuller pulls another gem from big sis’ songbook with the R&B-laden ballad “Ebonics,” a tune that would fit nicely on a sophisticated, yet young-minded jazz radio format geared towards jazz listeners of the hip-hop generation. Except for the gentle and evocative “The Olive Leaf and Dove,” written by Shamie and her drummer husband Rudy Royston, the remaining compositions are originals. – Amazon.com

Esperanza Spalding – Esperanza

Esperanza Spalding, "Esperanza"

“Esperanza,” bassist/vocalist/composer Esperanza Spalding’s debut on Heads Up International, is set for worldwide release on May 20, 2008. Armed with uncanny instrumental chops, a siren voice that spans three languages, and composing and arranging skills that weave together the best elements of the old-school with the progressive, this 23-year-old has crafted a debut album that takes a completely fresh and refreshing approach to jazz by borrowing from the rich traditions of soul, pop, world music and so much more. “All of us had the same intentions in the studio. Everybody really gave everything we could give, because we really wanted it to be the best that it could possibly be. It was like a family affair. There are things on there that you’ll dig if you’re a jazz listener, and things you’ll dig if you’re not a jazz listener. That’s the objective – to serve as many people as possible with the music.” – Amazon.com also, Esperanza Spalding

Gail Jhonson – Pearls

Gail Jhonson, "Pearls"

Born and raised in the city of Philadelphia, Gail Denise Jhonson began piano lessons in elementary school at age 10. Proving to be a gifted student she advanced quickly and played her 1st gig’s at age 14 playing organ with numerous local Funk and R&B bands. On her musical pursuit, by 18 she enrolled into Berklee College of Music and later received a B.A. in composition.  Returning home, as a “jazz pianist”, Gail performed with several jazz bands, and other popular Philadelphia artists. She left Germantown in 1985, with her keyboard strapped on and landed an audition with Morris Day (of the “TIME”).  She eventually moved to Los Angeles to make her dream career come true! – WEbMac.com

Jessy J – Tequila Moon

Jessy J, "Tequila Moon"

From the moment Jessy J hit the stage in Fresno, California for the first time as a member of super producer/guitarist Paul Brown’s live band on Valentine’s Day 2006, the love between the saxophonist/vocalist and contemporary jazz fans has been flowing nonstop. Jessy’s sizzling mix of hot beats, Latin and samba rhythms and sensuous melodies is quickly catching fire at radio, as the title track was one of the most added smooth jazz tracks immediately upon its release in January. The multi-talented Portland, Oregon born, Hemet, California raised performer draws her inspiration naturally from several unique musical wellsprings, beginning with her Mexican-American heritage. – JessyJ.com

Ragan Whiteside – Class Axe

Ragan Whiteside, "Class Axe"

Flutist, vocalist, and songwriter, Ragan Whiteside is taking the Contemporary Jazz world by storm. With her unique style and soulful vibe, this triple threat is bringing the flute back into mainstream focus.

“She not only has THE silkiest and sweetest flute tone in the business, but her tenacity and desire to be recognized in Urban, New-Soul AND Smooth Jazz genres makes her a musical force to be reckoned with!! Mark my words!” – Bob Baldwin | RaganWhiteside.com

Ted Nash | The Mancini Project

Tags

Jazz, New Music, Saxophone, Ted Nash

Ted Nash | The Mancini Project – [Palmetto Records, 2008]

Ted Nash - The Mancini Project

Best known for his associations with the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, The Jazz Composers Collective, and his own inventive groups, composer and multi-instrumentalist Ted Nash enjoys an extraordinary career as a performer, conductor, composer, arranger, and educator, receiving high praise from both critics and audiences worldwide. DOWNBEAT MAGAZINE recognized Nash as a Rising Star in the Alto Saxophone category in 2004, 2005, and 2006 as well as a rising star in the Tenor Saxophone category in 2003, 2004, and 2005. –

Release Date: 8/5/2008 – The Mancini Project.

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

Leonard Patton | Love, Life, & Song [Nu Jazz]

Tags

African American, Jazz, Male Vocalist, New Music

Leonard Patton, Love, Life & Song. If you haven’t heard this remarkable talent from San Diego, CA you’re missing out on a refreshing treat.

Leonard Patton

Some people are born to sing. Leonard Patton was just born singing. From his elementary school days when he requested hall passes in order to test the acoustics of the school’s hallways, to his college days of choir and ensembles, Leonard Patton was born singing and he has yet to stop.

From Marley to Metheny, from Sting to Stevie – Leonard’s influences have been vast and varied; thus encouraging a unique style all his own. With an extensive collection of jazz standards and samba tunes at his command, Leonard has been singin’, stylin’ and scattin’ his way into the hearts of jazz and music lovers everywhere – born singin’ and yet to stop.- Bio

Love, Life, & Song was released on June 17, 08. Go here, to listen to this wonderful new talent.

Nu-Voices – “Foster, Garcia & Rideau”

Tags

African American, Foster, Independent Artists, New Music, Rideau, Voro Garcia

Good day everyone! While in our search for “nu-voices,” we bumped into a trio of enticing new artist that you might be interested in today.

Reggie Foster Jr. – Different Level

Reggie Foster Jr., Different Level

A native of Gary, Indiana, Reggie Jr. is the oldest of seven siblings. He was raised in a Pentecostal church family background, and born into a musical family where his parents, brothers and sisters all began as exceptional musicians and vocalists. Reggie embarked on a musical voyage as a very young child. His talents are truly a gift from God. Reggie began playing professionally at the age of 20, and over the next 10 years has provided his different flava to numerous gospel professional recordings, such as Ricky Dillard, Carlis Moody, SWV (Saints With A Vision), Tyrone Block/LSD, Ty Tribbet, Doug Williams of the Williams Brothers, James Greer, Karen Clark Sheard, and various other artists. – CDBaby.com [Independent Music]

Voro Garcia – Vorocity

Voro Garcia, Vorocity

Voro Garcia was born in Valencia, Spain in August 5th 1978. At age of 8, he started his first private lessons in trumpet. In 1996, he finished his classical studies in performance at the Luis Milan Conservatorium of Valencia, Spain. In the years that followed, he actively performed with several groups and big bands, touring around Spain and other European countries. He played with M.P. Mossman, Perico Sambeat, Mario Rossy, Albert Sanz, Ze Eduardo, Leo Genovese and Bob Gullotti among others. In Spring 2005 he was granted with a scholarship to attend Berklee College of Music where he graduated in 2007. Some of the teachers he studied with include Joe Lovano, Hal Crook, George Garzone, Dave Santoro, Dave Douglas, Mark Whitfield and Greg Hopkins among others. – CDBaby.com [Independent Music]

Breggett Rideau – More

Breggett Rideau, More

For New Orleans native, Breggett Rideau, her first CD Release “the opportune tune…” afforded her the chance to do something she loves to do, which is sing and tell the story of her life through her phenomenal voice to appease the appetite of jazz enthusiasts and lovers of real, live music. “How many times can one heart break? As many times as it searches for love. But, when love is found it was worth every attempt. ” Join Breggett in her quest for love. In this soulful jazz presentation of her latest CD. – CDBaby.com [Independent Music]

Manuel Valera Group, “Melancolia” – [Revisited]

Tags

Jazz, Latin Jazz, New Music, Piano

Manuel Valera Group, Melancolia

After hearing Cuban pianist’s / composer / arranger Manuel Valera’s debut “Forma Nueva,” I was in awe with anticipation of his next release “Melancolia” on Mavo Records. The twenty-something Valera establishes his presence from the first note as a player, composer and arranger on his sophomore project “Melancolia.”

Perhaps at any given time you’re like me you love to see and hear first call players. Manuel called upon this fabulous cast of musicians: saxophonist, – Seamus Blake | bassist, – Ben Street | drummer, – Antonio Sanchez on board to bring life to these stunning arrangements.

More Fresh Gems from the Flux

Tags

Funk, Jazz, New Music, Vocals

Yes, we’re back with another spin of  “Nu-Voices.” Keep in mind some of these artists have been recording for years, however they haven’t necessarily been in the mainstream. If you like what you hear or not, please give us your perspective about these or any artist we post here at the Flux.

Rita Edmond, Sketches Of A Dream

Rita Edmond

“During an era when there are many female singers who are attempting to sing jazz, Rita Edmond stands apart from the crowd. A California-based vocalist who is making quite an impact on the Los Angeles jazz scene, she has a very appealing voice, a four-octave range, and is able to express a wide variety of emotions. ” – Scott Yanno

Jimmy Wilson, A Bright Light From A Single Spark

Jimmy Wilson

“Jimmy’s musical style can be depicted as the Miles Davis of today. He bridges his digital and acoustic trumpets with sounds from a Louisiana blues harmonica together with influences from the tones of the middle east, the rhythms of new age music, crisp pop turntables, and lush female vocals to create a worldly jazz sound that transcends its traditional American roots.” – CDBaby.com

Paul Jackson, Funk On A Stick

Paul Jackson, Funk on A Stick

“Jazz purists may cringe but the open-eared will find much to savor in this effort that is splendidly presented and well worth a listen. As a one of the founding members of the “Headhunters,” Paul Jackson was instrumental in the development of Jazz-fusion along with bandmate, Herbie Hancock. This CD pushes the envelope even further with a foray into hard core funk.” – CDBaby.com

Eclectik Soul, Eclectik Soul

Eclectik Soul

“One vision, one passion, and one love for music, ” is the essence of this soul-stirring group of musicians called “Eclectik Soul”.  Like magnets, they were drawn together to develop into this wild chemistry of beats, melodies, and poetry in song.  Their recently completed and self-titled album, “Eclectik Soul” (2008)  keeps the ears vibrating with “eclectic” mixtures of Jazz, R & B, and Gospel undertones.” – CDBaby.com