Smooth Style - Magazine of Europe's only Smooth Jazz Festivals

Smooth Style Magazine of the Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival on 1. - 4. May 2014 at Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa

Europe‘s greatest Soul, Funk & Jazz-Party The 3rd annual Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival

Fan favorite line-up Jessy J, Peter White, Richard Elliot, Gregg Karukas, Nick Colionne, Elan Trotman, Spencer Day, Shilts and many more...

Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa

Excellent cuisine and best spa on the island

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Festival Partner & Imprint

MALLORCA SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL 1. – 4. May 2014 Presentado por: / Präsentiert von: / Presented by:

Patrocinadores / Sponsoren / Sponsors

Medios asociados / Medienpartner / Media Partner

Impresión Impressum Imprint Editor / Herausgeber / Editor smooth entertainment GmbH, Perzheimstraße 48, D-86150 Augsburg Tel. +49 (0)821 2292711, Fax +49 (0)821 2292712 info@smoothentertainment.de www.smoothentertainment.de Redacción / Redaktion / Editorial Staff: Sandra Hoffmann, Pilar Sáez Madrona, Christian Bössner Director de proyecto / Projektleiter / Project Manager: Christian Bössner Diseño / Gestaltung / Layout: Christian Bössner Ventas de anuncios / Anzeigenverkauf / Ad Sales: Christian Bössner Imprenta / Druck / Print: HPP GmbH & Co. KG, Kantstraße 20a, D-59755 Arnsberg Tel. +49 (0)2932 2039899, www.hp-publishing.de Fecha de edición / Erscheinungstermin / Date of publication: 3/2014 Alle Angaben trotz sorgfältiger Bearbeitung ohne Gewähr.

No responsibility is taken for the correctness of the details provided.

Foto de portada / Titelfoto / Cover photo: Tom Keller

Contenido Inhalt Content Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival Intro ........................................................................................................................3 Saludo / Begrüßung / Salutation ..................................................................4 Reservas / Reservierung / Reservation .......................................................5 Artistas / Künstler / Artists Elan Trotman ........................................................................................................6 Richard Elliot ........................................................................................................7 Jessy J......................................................................................................................8 Nick Colionne .......................................................................................................9 Spencer Day .......................................................................................................10 Peter White..........................................................................................................11 Gregg Karukas ...................................................................................................12 Paul Shilts Weimar ............................................................................................13 Banda del Festival / Festivalband / Festival Band .................................15 Ubicación / Location / Location Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa ..................................................................18 Smooth Lifestyle Reseñas / Rückblick / Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2013 ..........................................................20 Smooth Jazz Festival Augsburg 2013 ........................................................22 CD Reseñas / CD-Tipps / CD Reviews .........................................................26

Intro | Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival

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Bienvenidos al MALLORCA SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL, único festival de smooth jazz celebrado en el Mediterráneo, en la atractiva zona turística de Sa Coma (costa este de la isla).

Europe‘s Greatest Soul, Funk & Jazz-Party

Un evento único con música en directo, en el exclusivo ambiente de Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa. Hotel de 5 estrellas de elegantes instalaciones, que cuenta con una completa área de spa, extensos jardines ornamentales, piscina exterior y cubierta. Situado a tan sólo 300 metros de la playa, al lado del parque natural “Sa Punta de n’Amer”.

Unas breves vacaciones pensadas para disfrutar de la cara más positiva de la vida.

Buena música. Buena comida. Buen vino. Buen entretenimiento. Buen tiempo. Una experiencia única con el impresionante paisaje Mediterráneo como telón de fondo.

La noche del jueves, del viernes y del sábado damos la bienvenida a las estrellas actualmente más destacadas del panorama internacional del Jazz Contemporáneo y del Smooth Jazz. En la mañana del último día, domingo, finalizará el festival de música.

Espero que lo disfruten, Christian Bössner

Willkommen beim MALLORCA SMOOTH JAZZ FESTVAL – dem einzigen Smooth Jazz Festival im europäischen Mittelmeerraum. Genau genommen in Sa Coma, an der wunderschönen Ostküste der spanischen Insel Mallorca.

Im Mai erwartet Sie hier ein Musikfestival mit einzigartiger Live-Musik im exklusiven Ambiente des Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa. Das 5-Sterne-Hotel ist zugleich Veranstaltungsort und besticht durch seine elegante und moderne Ausstattung, einen vollwertig ausgestatteten Spa-Bereich sowie gepflegte Garten- und Poolanlagen (outdoor/indoor). Direkt am Naturpark Punta de n’Amer gelegen, ist der Strand von Sa Coma nur 300 Meter entfernt.

In diesem musikalischen (Kurz-) Urlaub gilt es, die schönen Dinge des Lebens zu genießen. Gute Musik. Gutes Essen. Guter Wein. Gute Unterhaltung. Gutes Wetter. Gute Aussichten auf Erholung und ein einzigartiges Erlebnis vor der atemberaubenden Kulisse des Mittelmeers.

Auf der Bühne begrüßen wir einige der größten und erfolgreichsten Stars der internationalen Contemporary und Smooth Jazz-Szene. Die Live-Konzerte finden am Donnerstag-, Freitag- und Samstagabend sowie am Sonntagvormittag bis frühen Nachmittag statt.

Ich freue mich auf eine tolle Zeit, Christian Bössner

Welcome to the MALLORCA SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL – the only smooth jazz festival in the European Mediterranean area. Actually, in Sa Coma, on the beautiful east coast of the Spanish island Mallorca.

In May, a music festival with unique live music awaits you in the exclusive ambience of the Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa. The 5-star hotel is also the venue and is characterized by an elegant and modern equipment, a full-equipped spa area as well as landscaped gardens and swimming pools (indoor / outdoor). Located only 300 metres from the beach, right on the Punta de n’Amer natural park.

This musical (short) vacation is all about enjoying the finer things in life. Good music.

Good food. Good wine. Good entertainment. Good weather. Good prospects for recovery and a unique experience in the breathtaking scenery of the Mediterranean Sea. On stage, we welcome some of the biggest and most successful international stars of the Contemporary and Smooth Jazz scene. The live concerts take place on Thursday, Friday and Saturday evening and on Sunday forenoon until afternoon.

I look forward to having a great time, Christian Bössner

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Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival | Salutation

Eventos adicionales Rahmenprogramm Additional Program

Conciertos En Vivo Live-Konzerte Live Concerts Reservas / Reservierung / Reservation Lugar del evento / Veranstaltungsort / Venue Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa | C./ Baladres, 5 | 07560 Sa Coma, Mallorca Entradas para conciertos / Konzerttickets / Concert Tickets

Martes, 29 de abril / Dienstag, 29. April / Tuesday, April 29 19:30 h Cena Gala Bienvenida con los ARTISTAS Willkommens-Gala-Dinner mit KÜNSTLERN und Musikern Welcome Gala Dinner with the ARTISTS and musicians 21:30 h Concierto Pre-Festival en el Piano Bar Pre-Festivalkonzert in der Piano Bar Pre-festival concert at the Piano Bar Miércoles, 30 de abril / Mittwoch, 30. April / Wednesday, April 30 10:00 h Excursión a Palma de Mallorca Tagesausflug nach Palma de Mallorca Day excursion to Palma de Mallorca 21:30 h Concierto Pre-Festival en el Piano Bar Pre-Festivalkonzert in der Piano Bar Pre-festival concert at the Piano Bar

Jueves | Viernes | Sábado | Domingo: Entrada de dia 55,00 Euro por persona Donnerstag | Freitag | Samstag | Sonntag: Tagesticket 55,00 Euro pro Person Thursday | Friday | Saturday | Sunday: Day Ticket 55,00 Euro per Person Paquetes de hotel / Hotelpakete / Hotel Packages Desde 3 noches (1-4 Mayo 2014) incluye media pensión y todos conciertos: desde 443,00 Euro por persona (habitación doble) Ab 3 Übernachtungen (1.-4. Mai 2014) inklusive Halbpension und alle Konzerte: ab 443,00 Euro pro Person im Doppelzimmer From 3 overnight stays (May 1-4, 2014) including half-board and all concerts: from 443,00 Euro per person in a double room Contacto / Kontakt / Contact Ticket-Hotline: (+34) 971 587 520 | www.mallorca.smoothjazzfestival.de

Jueves, 1 de mayo / Donnerstag, 1. Mai / Thursday, May 1

Jueves, 1 de mayo / Donnerstag, 1. Mai / Thursday, May 1

10:00 h Excursión a Valldemossa y Sóller Tagesausflug nach Valldemossa und Sóller Day excursion to Valldemossa and Sóller 16:00 h Concurso de jóvenes talentos valorados por ARTISTA Talentwettbewerb für Jugendliche mit KÜNSTLER-Jury Young talent contest judged by ARTISTS

20:15 h 21:00 h 22:30 h 24:00 h

Viernes, 2 de mayo / Freitag, 2. Mai / Friday, May 2

Viernes, 2 de mayo / Freitag, 2. Mai / Friday, May 2

10:00 h Excursión a una Bodega tradicional mallorquina Halbtages-Ausflug in eine tradit. Bodega (Weinkellerei) Half-day excursion to a traditional Bodega (Winery)

20:15 h 21:00 h 22:30 h 24:00 h

Sábado, 3 de mayo / Samstag, 3. Mai / Saturday, May 3

Sábado, 3 de mayo / Samstag, 3. Mai / Saturday, May 3

10:00 h Experienca exclusiva: Golf con un ARTISTA Exklusiver Golf-Event mit einem KÜNSTLER Exclusive Golf experience with an ARTIST 14:00 h Pool Party en el Pool Bar Pool-Party an der Pool Bar Pool Party at the Pool Bar

20:15 h 21:00 h 22:30 h 24:00 h

Domingo, 4 de mayo / Sonntag, 4. Mai / Saturday, May 4

Domingo, 5 de mayo / Sonntag, 5. Mai / Sunday, May 5

21:30 h Concierto Post-Festival en el Piano Bar Post-Festivalkonzert in der Piano Bar Post-festival concert at the Piano Bar

10:45 h Entrada / Einlass / Entrance 11:30 h Concierto 7 / Konzert 7 / Concert 7: GREGG KARUKAS Concierto 8 / Konzert 8 / Concert 8: PAUL SHILTS WEIMAR 14:00 h Fin de Festival / Ende des Festivals / End of the festival

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance Concierto 1 / Konzert 1 / Concert 1: ELAN TROTMAN Concierto 2 / Konzert 2 / Concert 2: RICHARD ELLIOT Aftershow Chillout

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance Concierto 3 / Konzert 3 / Concert 3: JESSY J Concierto 4 / Konzert 4 / Concert 4: NICK COLIONNE Aftershow Chillout

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance Concierto 5 / Konzert 5 / Concert 5: SPENCER DAY Concierto 6 / Konzert 6 / Concert 2: PETER WHITE Aftershow Chillout

Reservation | Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival

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Saxophonist Elan Trotman, born and raised in Barbados, where he grooved to calypsos, reggae and local music, started piano lessons at 7, picking up the saxophone five years later. He was educated at the Berklee College Of Music in Boston. His playing displays his own fresh ideas and distinctive tone. So much so that the New England Urban Music Awards named him best male jazz performer, and he’s been nominated for Boston Music Awards in the jazz category.

The multi-instrumentalist has released music with elements of gospel, jazz, R&B, funk and reggae, but slowed things down for his 5th CD “Love and Sax” (2011). A ballads project including the single “Heaven in Your Eyes” featuring Brian Simpson, that climbed all the way to #11 on the Billboard Smooth Jazz Songs Chart. The latest release “Tropicality” (2013) showcases Elan’s Caribbean heritage and features rhythms and grooves from Barbados and surrounding Caribbean Islands. Guitarist and good friend Peter White co-produced the album, along with special guest appearances by Paul Brown, Terri Lyne Carrington and Nick Colionne.

Trotman has recorded and performed with a number of world-class musicians, including Kirk Whalum, Patti Austin, Will Downing, Phil Perry, Jamie Foxx, Keiko Matsui, Gerald Albright and Dave Koz to name a few.

Elan Trotman live Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2014 el jueves, 1 de mayo, 21:00 hrs am Donnerstag, 1. Mai, 21:00 Uhr on Thursday, May 1, 9:00 pm

Barbados Groove

ELAN TROTMAN Discography Tropicality (2013) Love and Sax (2011) This Time Around (2009) Let‘s Have A Good Old Time (2005) Memories: The Debut (2001) A Reggae Christmas www.elantrotman.com

Saxophonist Elan Trotman, aufgewachsen in Barbados, wo er zu Calypsos, Reggae und lokaler Musik groovte, begann im Alter von sieben Jahren Klavier zu spielen. Mit 12 stieg er auf Saxophon um.

Ausgebildet am Berklee College Of Music in Boston, ist sein Spiel geprägt von eigenen, frischen Ideen und einem unverwechselbaren Ton. Bald folgte eine Nominierung bei den Boston Music Awards in der Kategorie Jazz und die Ernennung zum besten männlichen Jazzmusiker bei den New England Urban Music Awards.

El saxofonista Elan Trotman nació y creció en Barbados, donde adquirió conocimientos del calipso, reggae y de la música local.

Formado en la Berklee College of Music de Boston, comenzó las clases de piano a los siete años y a los doce años se pasó al saxofón.

Su forma de tocar muestra la frescura y la inconfundible tonalidad que le caracteriza. Tanto es así que ha sido nominado por los Boston Music Awards en la categoría de jazz y los New England Urban Music Awards lo nombraron “Mejor Intérprete Masculino de Jazz”.

Die Musik des „Multi-Instrumentalisten“ wartet mit Elementen aus Gospel, Jazz, R&B, Funk und Reggae auf. Für seine fünfte CD „Love and Sax“ (2011) ist Trotman jedoch etwas vom Gas gegangen. Entstanden ist ein Balladen-Album, dessen Single „Heaven in Your Eyes” feat. Brian Simpson bis auf Platz 11 der Billboard Jazz Song Charts geklettert ist. Mit “Tropicality” (2013) tritt Elan sein karibisches Kulturerbe an – das Album zeichnet sich durch Rhythmen und Grooves aus Barbados und den umliegenden karibischen Inseln aus. Gitarrist Peter White co-produzierte das Album, das zudem mit Gastauftritten von Paul Brown, Terri Lyne Carrington und Nick Colionne glänzt.

La música de este multi-instrumentista contiene elementos del góspel, jazz, R&B, funk y reggae, pero para su quinto disco “Love and Sax” (2011) optó por ritmos más lentos, resultando un fantástico álbum de baladas, cuyo single “Heaven in Your Eyes” con Brian Simpson alcanzó el puesto 11 de las listas de éxitos de canciones jazz. Su último trabajo discográfico “Tropicality” (2013), coproducido por su buen amigo y guitarrista Peter White, muestra la herencia caribeña de Elan – el álbum destaca por los característicos ritmos y grooves de Barbados, y de las islas caribeñas de los alrededores e incluye colaboraciones de Paul Brown, Terri Lyne Carrington y Nick Colionne.

Auf der Bühne und im Studio performte Elan bereits mit WeltklasseKünstlern wie Kirk Whalum, Patti Austin, Will Downing, Phil Perry, Jamie Foxx, Keiko Matsui, Gerald Albright, Dave Koz und vielen mehr.

Elan ha grabado y tocado con artistas internacionalmente conocidos, incluyendo Kirk Whalum, Patti Austin, Will Downing, Phil Perry, Jamie Foxx, Keiko Matsui, Gerald Albright, Dave Koz, entre otros.

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Artists | Elan Trotman

RICHARD ELLIOT Discography Number Ones (2013) Summer Horns (2013) In The Zone (2011) Rock Steady (2009) RnR (2007) Metro Blue (2005) Ricochet (2003) Crush (2001) Ballads (2001) The Best Of Richard Elliot (2000) Chill Factor (1999) Jumpin‘ Off (1997) etc. www.richardelliot.com

Richard Elliot live Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2014 el jueves, 1 de mayo, 22:30 hrs am Donnerstag, 1. Mai, 22:30 Uhr on Thursday, May 1, 10:30 pm

Groove meets Funk

Este saxofonista, nacido en Escocia y criado en Los Ángeles, estaba todavía de gira con “Tower of Power” cuando en 1986 vio la luz su primer trabajo en solitario “Trolltown”. 25 años más tarde el indiscutible embajador del soul jazz lanzó su último disco en solitario “In the Zone”, un recopilatorio salpicado de ritmos groove y funk, que recoge la energía del saxofonista tenor y que rinde homenaje a los brillantes e innovadores artistas instrumentistas que le inspiraron en el comienzo de su carrera: leyendas como Grover Washington, Jr., Bob James y David Sanborn. Elliot concibió el complemento perfecto del jazz contemporáneo en “Rock Steady”, el álbum de 2009 en el que se inspiró en los grandes artistas de R&B de su juventud; ambos álbumes se mantuvieron al menos 30 semanas en las listas de éxitos como álbum jazz alcanzando el puesto número 5.

Elliot logró cuatro álbumes número 1 y un permanente aumento de nº 1 de airplay singles. En los 90 formó parte de la giras de estrellas “Groovin’ For Grover” y “Jazz Attack”, antes de marchar de gira con “Guitars & Saxes”. El álbum “Summer Horns”, como resultado de su última colaboración con Dave Koz, Mindi Abair y Gerald Albright, fue nominado como “Mejor Álbum Pop Instrumental” por los Premios Grammy 2014.

Der in Schottland geborene und in L.A.-aufgewachsene Saxofonist war noch auf Tour mit Tower of Power als 1986 sein erstes Soloalbum „Trolltown“ erschien. 25 Jahre später veröffentlicht der unangefochtene Botschafter des Soul-Jazz seine jüngste Solo-CD „In the Zone“, eine groovende Kollektion von Songs mit jeder Menge Funk, auf der der Tenor-Saxofonist den inspirierenden, brillanten und innovativen Instrumental-Künstlern zu Beginn seiner eigenen Karriere huldigt: Legenden wie Grover Washington, Jr., Bob James and David Sanborn. Elliot entwarf die perfekte Contemporary Jazz-Ergänzung zu „Rock Steady“, das Album von 2009, bei dem er sich von den großen R&B-Künstlern seiner Jugend inspirieren ließ – beide Alben hielten sich 30 Wochen und länger in den Billboard Jazz Album Charts und erreichten Platz 5.

Elliot erzielte vier #1 Alben und eine andauernd, wachsende Zahl von #1 Airplay-Singles. In den 90er Jahren war er Teil der All-StarTourneen “Groovin’ For Grover” und “Jazz Attack”, ehe er mit „Guitars & Saxes” tourte. Das Album “Summer Horns”, Resultat seiner jüngsten Zusammenarbeit mit Dave Koz, Mindi Abair und Gerald Albright, wurde für die “Beste Pop Instrumental Album” bei den Grammy Awards 2014 nominiert.

Image: Lori Stoll

The Scotland-born, L.A.-raised saxman was still on the road with Tower of Power when he released his debut album “Trolltown” in 1986. 25 years later the reigning merchant of Soul Jazz releases his latest solo CD “In the Zone”, a grooving, funked up, horn-splashed collection that finds the energized-as-ever tenor saxophonist paying homage to the pioneering instrumental artists of his formative years whose brilliance and musical innovations inspired his own: legends like Grover Washington, Jr., Bob James and David Sanborn. Elliot fashioned the perfect contemporary jazz complement to “Rock Steady”, his 2009 recording that was inspired by the great R&B artists he grew up listening to; both collections debuted at #5 on the Billboard jazz album chart and remained on the list for at least 30 weeks.

Elliot has scored four #1 albums and a growing number of #1 airplay singles. In addition to his participation in all-star tours like “Groovin’ For Grover” and “Jazz Attack” in the mid-‘90s, he helped launch the “Guitars & Saxes” tours. The album “Summer Horns”, result of his latest collaboration with Dave Koz, Mindi Abair and Gerald Albright, was nominated for “Best Pop Instrumental Album” at the 2014 Grammy Awards.

Richard Elliot | Artists

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La talentosa saxofonista, pianista, cantante y compositora, Jessy J, quien ya ha trabajado con muchos artistas, desde The Temptations hasta Michael Bublé, comenzó su carrera musical a la edad de cuatro años.

Con 15 años fue nombrada “Mejor Pianista del Estado” y, más tarde, se pasó al saxofón.

JESSY J Discography Second Chances (2013) Hot Sauce (2011) True Love (2009) Tequila Moon (2008) Jessy J (2007) www.jessyj.com

Latin Sax

Die talentierte Saxophonistin, Pianistin, Sängerin und Songwriterin Jessy J, die u. a. schon mit The Temptations und Michael Bublé zusammenarbeitete, begann ihre musikalische Karriere im Alter von vier Jahren. Mit 15 wurde sie Landesmeisterin am Piano und wechselte später zum Saxophon.

Im Jahr 2004 wurde sie für das Off-Broadway Musical „Blast!” engagiert und tourte in den USA, Großbritannien und Japan. 2007 veröffentlichte sie ein Album unter eigenem Namen, bevor sie dann 2008 mit „Tequila Moon“ die Charts stürmte und den Durchbruch in der Contemporary Jazz-Szene schaffte. Das preisgekrönte Album spiegelt Jessy’s Liebe zu lateinamerikanischen Rhythmen und Jazz wieder – der Titelsong hielt sich acht Wochen auf Platz 1 und entwickelte sich zum Contemporary Jazz Song des Jahres. Die Auszeichnung „Debut Artist of the Year“ folgte. 2009 erschien die CD „True Love” mit der #1-Single „Tropical Rain” gefolgt von dem Album „Hot Sauce“ (2011), Jessy’s erstem #1-Album in den Billboard Jazz Charts.

In der jüngsten Veröffentlichung „Second Chances” (2013) übernimmt Jessy auch die Rolle als Produzentin. Auf dem Album wirken u. a. der Grammy-nominierte Keyboarder und Produzent Jeff Lorber, der GrammyGewinner und Gitarrist Norman Brown, der renommierte Bassist Jimmy Haslip sowie der legendäre Pianist Joe Sample mit.

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Artists | Jessy J

The talented saxophonist, pianist, singer and songwriter, Jessy J, who has worked with everyone from The Temptations to Michael Bublé, started her musical career at age four. At 15, she was named Piano State Champion and switched later to the saxophone.

In 2004, she joined the Off-Broadway musical “Blast!” and toured in the US, the UK and Japan. In 2007 Jessy issued a self-titled album, before she finally burst onto the contemporary jazz scene in 2008, blending her love for Latin rhythms and jazz on her charttopping, award-winning album “Tequila Moon”. She earned the Radio & Records’ “Debut Artist of The Year” Award and Contemporary Jazz “Song of the Year” by both R&R and Billboard for the title track, which held the #1 spot on the chart for eight weeks.

Followed up by “True Love” (2009) containing the #1 single “Tropical Rain” and the record “Hot Sauce” (2011), that debuted #1 at the Billboard Jazz Album Chart.

With her latest release, “Second Chances” (2013), Jessy takes over the reigns as the producer of the new album. The set features collaborations with Grammy nominated keyboardist-producer Jeff Lorber, Grammy winning guitarist Norman Brown, renowned bassist Jimmy Haslip and legendary pianist Joe Sample.

En 2004 fue contratada por el Off-Broadway Musical “Blast!” y realizó una gira por Estados Unidos, Gran Bretaña y Japón.

En 2007 publicó un álbum en solitario y en 2008 conquistó las listas de éxitos con “Tequila Moon“ consiguiendo la consagración en el panorama contemporáneo del jazz. Con este premiado álbum, reflejo del amor de Jessy por los ritmos latinoamericanos y por el jazz, obtuvo el “Debut Artist of The Year” – Premio al Artista Revelación del Año – y el “Contemporary Jazz Song of the Year” – Premio a la Canción del Año en la Categoría de Jazz Contemporáneo – por el tema que da título al álbum, el cual se mantuvo ocho semanas en el número uno de las listas de éxitos. Posteriormente, en 2009 salió al mercado el disco “True Love” con el primer sencillo “Tropical Rain” seguido por el álbum “Hot Sauce” (2011) en el que debutó como número uno en las listas de éxitos de álbumes jazz.

En su último trabajo, “Second Chances” (2013), Jessy se hace cargo de la producción del álbum, del que destacan las colaboraciones del teclista y productor nominado al Grammy Jeff Lorber, el guitarrista ganador del Grammy Norman Brown, el prestigioso bajista Jimmy Haslip y el legendario pianista Joe Sample.

Jessy J live Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2014 el viernes, 2 de mayo, 21:00 hrs am Freitag, 2. Mai, 21:00 Uhr on Friday, May 2, 9:00 pm

Nick lernte mit neun Jahren das Gitarrespielen von seinem Stiefvater Edward. Mit 15 hatte er seine ersten professionellen Auftritte als Musiker. Sein einmaliger Musikstil verbindet Urban und Contemporary Jazz-Elemente und hat ihn zu einem der heutigen Smooth Jazz Stars gemacht. Sein Sound ist unverwechselbar und vereint sämtliche Einflüsse seiner musikalischen Laufbahn – von Jazz bis R&B, Blues und Rock. Nick agiert blitzschnell und trotzdem ausgesprochen geschmeidig mit seiner Gitarre und verschafft dem Publikum, unterstützt von seiner Bariton-Stimme, unerwartete Klangerlebnisse. Über Nick’s Entertainer-Qualitäten kann man nicht berichten… man muss sie selbst erleben, um sich ein Bild machen zu können.

Auf den kanadischen Smooth Jazz Awards 2007 wurde Nick „International Instrumental Artist of the Year” und beerbte Chris Botti. Mit seinen insgesamt sechs veröffentlichten Alben war er vielfach in den Top Ten Billboard Contemporary Jazz Charts vertreten.

Sein neues Album „Influences” erscheint im April 2014. Sein Tourplan umfasst über 100 Live-Auftritte pro Jahr.

Nick began learning guitar at age nine from his stepfather Edward, and started gigging professionally by 15. With a jazz style that is both urban and contemporary, he has blazed a trail to the top of the ranks of today’s stars. Combining all of the various influences of his music career from jazz to R&B to blues to rock, he has created an unmistakable sound and vibe that is instantly recognizable. With lightening fast speed and a distinctively silky sound, Nick takes the guitar to unexpected places every time he performs. His rich baritone vocals delight audiences unaccustomed to hearing such a skilled instrumentalist singing as well, and his showmanship….well, you have to see a Nick Colionne show and experience it for yourself. With energy to spare, unparalleled musicianship and a natural comedic flair, he is one of a kind.

At the 2007 Canadian Smooth Jazz Awards, Nick succeeded Chris Botti as “International Instrumental Artist of the Year”. In total Nick released six albums and hit the Top Ten Billboard Contemporary Jazz charts many times. His new album „Influences“ will be released in April 2014. His tour schedule includes over 100 live dates a year.

NICK COLIONNE Discography Influences (2014) Feel The Heat (2011) No Limits (2008) Keepin‘ It Cool (2006) Just Come On In (2003) The Seduction (1999) Arrival (1996) It‘s My Turn (1994)

Nick aprendió con nueve años a tocar la guitarra con la ayuda de su padrastro Edward.

Con 15 tuvo su primera actuación profesional como músico. Su estilo de jazz, entre urbano y contemporáneo, lo ha convertido en una de las grandes estrellas actuales del smooth jazz.

Combinando todas las diversas influencias de su carrera musical desde el jazz al R&B y desde el blues al rock, ha creado un sonido inconfundible que posee una vibración reconocible al instante. Sus actuaciones derrochan energía a la vez que suavidad en el sonido de su guitarra, respaldado por su barítona voz, cautivando al público con un sonido inesperado.

La calidad artística de Nick no se puede explicar con palabras… hay que ver una actuación suya para poder hacernos una idea. En los Premios Canadienses de Smooth Jazz (2007), Nick sucedió a Chris Botti como “Mejor Artista Instrumental Internacional del Año “. En total Nick ha lanzado seis álbumes al mercado y alcanzado muchas veces el top ten de las listas de éxitos de jazz contemporáneo. Su nuevo álbum “Influences” se publicará en abril 2014. Su calendario de gira incluye más de 100 conciertos al año.

Born Showman

www.nickcolionne.com

Nick Colionne | Artists

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Mysterious Vagabond Spencer Day is a contemporary singer and songwriter, originating from a small town in Utah. Singing and playing jazz standards in piano bars and retirement homes, he realized that he needed to write own songs as well. That’s when his career kicked into high gear. Over the years, as his popularity has soared, Spencer has released four albums: “Introducing Spencer Day” (2004), “Movie of Your Life” (2005) and the acclaimed CD “Vagabond” (2009), a musical hybrid that drew from the Great American Songbook, but also borrowed influences from artists such as Roy Orbison. Since Vagabond, Spencer has gained a deeper perspective about himself and the world. That revelation is captured in the 13 tracks of his latest album: “The Mystery of You” (2013).

In recent years, Spencer has been a much requested headliner in a number of high-profile music venues on the US west and east coast as well as on international stages in Japan, Australia and Indonesia. In addition to his highly acclaimed musicianship, Spencer has excited his audiences with his quick wit and unique, yet subtle humor. As Spencer puts it, “I want to create music that is smooth and sophisticated but teeming with raw emotion and fire under the surface. It is in life’s contradictions where the most beautiful things are created.”

El cantante y compositor Spencer Day comenzó su carrera musical en una pequeña ciudad de Utah. En sus comienzos actuaba en piano bares y en residencias de ancianos. Con la decisión de también escribir sus propias canciones, empezó pronto su carrera musical. Con los años ha ido aquiriendo fama y lleva publicados cuatro álbumes, entre ellos su éxitoso disco “Vagabond“ (2009), un híbrido musical con la influencia de “Great American Songbook“ aunque también inspirado por artistas como Roy Orbison.

Spencer lleva años solicitado para eventos de primera calidad de este a oeste de Estados Unidos, así como también en escenarios internacionales de Inglaterra, Japón, Australia e Indonesia.

Desde “Vagabond” Spencer ha adquirido una perspectiva más profunda de sí mismo y del mundo y como ya desvelan sus palabras ”Quiero crear música suave y sofisticada, pero que a la vez rebose una fuerte emoción y desprenda fuego. Es en las contradicciones de la vida cuando se crean las cosas más bonitas”, esa madurez y experiencia se muestra a lo largo de los 13 temas de su nuevo álbum “The Mystery of You“ (2013). Spencer no sólo entusiasma por su maestría musical, también cautiva a su público por su rápido y ocurrente sutil humor.

Der Sänger und Songwriter Spencer Day hat seine Laufbahn in einer kleinen Stadt in Utah begonnen. Am Anfang trat er in Piano-Bars und Altersheimen auf. Mit der Entscheidung auch eigene Songs zu schreiben, nahm seine Karriere rapide Fahrt auf. Im Laufe der Jahre wurde er immer bekannter und veröffentlichte vier Alben: „Introducing Spencer Day“ (2004), „Movie of your Life“ (2005) und die gefeierte CD „Vagabond“ (2009), ein musikalischer Hybrid, der Einflüsse aus dem „Great American Songbook“ zog, aber auch inspiriert war von Künstlern wie Roy Orbison. Seit Vagabond ist Spencer weiter gereift und hat mehr Tiefe gewonnen – diese Erfahrungen offenbart er in den 13 Tracks seines neuen Albums: „The Mystery of You“ (2013) Seit Jahren ist Spencer viel gefragter Headliner bei hochklassigen Veranstaltungen an der West- und Ostküste der USA sowie auf internationalen Bühnen in England, Japan, Australien und Indonesien. Spencer begeistert sein Publikum mit seinem Können ebenso wie mit seiner Schlagfertigkeit und seinem einzigartigen, subtilen Humor. „Ich will sanfte, anspruchsvolle Musik machen, die gleichzeitig überschäumt voll roher Emotion und Feuer, die unter der Oberfläche tosen. Es sind die Widersprüche des Lebens, die die schönsten Dinge hervorbringen.”

SPENCER DAY Discography The Mystery Of You (2013) Vagabond (2009) Movie Of Your Life (2005) Introducing Spencer Day (2004) www.spencerday.com

10 Artists | Spencer Day

Style on nylon An Englishman who accentuates his music with genial charm and musical playfulness. The result: Smooth Jazz with a spiritedness which many others in this genre lack. Born in Luton in 1954, White devoted himself to music already as a child. He learned to play several instruments, including the clarinet, trombone, violin and piano. And of course, like so many youngsters growing up during the heyday of the Beatles and the Rolling Stones, he gravitated to the guitar. After his first electric guitar, which he had bought as a teenager, had burnt in a fire, however, he had to play an acoustic guitar. He made the best of it: White discovered his love for acoustic music.

At 20, he was invited to join Al Stewart’s band for a tour of England, Scotland, and the U.S. in 1975. This was the beginning of a 20 year association. He worked with Stewart as a pianist at first, and later also as a guitarist, composer and co-producer. In 1979 both moved to Los Angeles, formed the band “Shot in the Dark” and a record label called Lobster Music. In 1990 White published his first solo CD “Reveillez-Vous”. The album soon became a favourite among contemporary jazz radio stations. 12 successful albums later, White released his latest solo recording “Here We Go” (2012).

Ein Engländer, der leutseligen Charme und musikalische Verspieltheit in seine Musik legt. Das Ergebnis: Smooth Jazz mit einer Lebendigkeit, die vielen anderen in diesem Genre fehlt.

1954 in Luton geboren, war White schon als Kind in Musik vernarrt.

Er lernte viele Instrument, inklusive Klarinette, Posaune, Violine und Klavier. Und natürlich, wie so viele Jugendliche die mit ihm in der Blütezeit der Beatles und Rolling Stones aufwuchsen, tendierte er zur Gitarre. Nachdem jedoch seine erste elektrische Gitarre, die er sich als Jugendlicher gekauft hatte, in einem Feuer verbrannt war, musste er mit einer akustischen Gitarre Vorlieb nehmen. Aus der Not wurde Tugend: White entdeckte seine Liebe zur akustischen Musik.

Mit 20 wurde er eingeladen, Al Stewart’s Band für die 1975er-Tour durch England, Schottland und den USA beizutreten – das war der Beginn einer 20-jährigen Zusammenarbeit. Zuerst als Pianist, später arbeitete er auch als Gitarrist, Komponist und Co-Produzent mit Stewart. 1979 zogen beide nach Los Angeles, gründeten die Band „Shot in the Dark“ und eine Plattenfirma namens Lobster Music. 1990 veröffentlichte White sein erstes Solo-Album „Reveillez-Vous“. Das Album wurde schnell zur Lieblingsscheibe der Contemporary Jazz-Radiosender. Zwölf erfolgreiche Alben später veröffentlichte White 2012 seine aktuelle Solo-CD „Here We Go“.

Un inglés que plasma a través de su música un extraordinario encanto y talento musical. El resultado: un smooth jazz con una energía en este género de la que otros carecen. Nacido en Luton en 1954, White empezó su carrera musical desde niño.

Aprendió a tocar varios instrumentos, incluyendo el clarinete, el trombón, el violín y el piano. Y naturalmente, como muchos jóvenes que crecieron con el apogeo de los Beatles y los Rolling Stones, se decantó por la guitarra. Después de que su primera guitarra eléctrica, comprada en su adolescencia, se quemara en un incendio, tuvo que tocar con una guitarra acústica. Así que hizo de la necesidad virtud y gracias a ello White descubrió el amor por la música acústica.

Con 20 años le ofrecieron formar parte de la banda de Al Stewart en la gira de 1975 por Inglaterra, Escocia y Estados Unidos, siendo el comienzo de 20 años de colaboración. Trabajó primero como pianista con Stewart, más tarde también como guitarrista, compositor y coproductor. En 1979 ambos se mudaron a Los Ángeles y crearon el grupo “Shot in the Dark” y la compañía discográfica Lobster Music. En 1990 White publicó su primer álbum en solitario “Reveillez-Vous”. El álbum pronto se convirtió en favorito entre las emisoras de radio del jazz contemporáneo.

Más tarde le siguieron 12 exitosos álbumes y en 2012 publicó su actual trabajo en solitario “Here We Go”.

PETER WHITE

Discography Here We Go (2012) Good Day (2008) Peter White Christmas (2007) Playin‘ Favorites (2006) Confidential (2004) Glow (2001) Perfect Moment (1998) Songs Of The Season (1997) Caravan Of Dreams (1996) Reflections (1994) Promenade (1993) Excusez-Moi (1992) Reveillez-Vous (1990) www.peterwhite.com

Peter White | Artists 11

Delighted, Mr. Melodic!

Gregg Karukas stammt aus der Region Maryland/ Washington DC. Schon früh kristallisierten sich sein musikalisches Talent und sein „gutes Ohr“ heraus. Aufnahmen von Miles Davis, Ahmad Jamal, Les McCann, Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock und der Jazz-Pianist Bill Evans entfachten sein Interesse an Jazz.

Mit 22 Jahren gründete Gregg die Band „Natural Bridge“ und eröffnete Shows für Künstler wie Angela Bofil, Larry Carlton oder Jeff Lorber. 1983 zog er nach L.A. und tourte mit jedem: von Sergio Mendes zu The Rippingtons (hier war Gregg Gründungsmitglied), von George Benson über Peter White bis hin zu Kim Waters, Rick Braun und Patti Austin. Er gründete eine Reihe von Bands und nahm CDs auf mit bis dato noch unentdeckten Talenten wie Dave Koz oder Boney James. 1987, das Smooth Jazz-Genre entwickelte sich gerade, erschien sein erstes Solo-Album „The Nightowl“ und eroberte die Radiostationen. Seither veröffentlichte er 11 CDs. Seinen Ruf als dynamischer, inspirierender Live-Musiker hat er mit seinem funky and melodic Style längst in der Szene zementiert.

Gregg ist Musical Director der „Dave Koz and Friends Cruise“ und wurde bereits mehrfach als bester Keyborder bei den Oasis and National Smooth Jazz Awards nominiert. 2013 wurde er mit einem Grammy Award als Produzent, Arrangeur und Co-Writer für „Echoes of Love” von Omar Akram ausgezeichnet.

Gregg Karukas hails originally from the D.C. – Maryland area. In his quest for jazz knowledge, the young musician who had natural ability and a good ear turned to the recordings of Miles Davis, Ahmad Jamal, Les McCann, Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock and the master jazz pianist Bill Evans.

At age 22, Gregg formed “Natural Bridge” and they opened shows for artists such as Angela Bofil, Larry Carlton or Jeff Lorber. In 1983, he moved to Los Angeles and played with almost everybody: Sergio Mendes, The Rippingtons (he was a founding member), George Benson, Peter White, Kim Waters, Rick Braun, Patti Austin and more. Gregg’s early L.A. bands and CD’s included young undiscovered sax talents like Dave Koz and Boney James. Beginning with his first independent recording, “The Nightowl”, in 1987, Gregg’s commercial success perfectly parallels that of the smooth jazz genre as a whole. Since then, he has released 11 CDs. Gregg’s dynamic and inspiring live performances showcase his funky, melodic compositional style familiar to his fans.

Gregg is Musical Director for the “Dave Koz and Friends Cruise” and has been nominated for Best Keyboardist at the Oasis and National Smooth Jazz Awards several times. In 2013 he was awarded a Grammy Award as a producer, arranger and co-writer for “Echoes of Love” by Omar Akram.

12 Artists | Gregg Karukas

Gregg Karukas, originario del estado de Maryland/ Washington DC, es aquel joven músico de gran talento natural y buen oído que recurrió a los discos de Miles Davis, Ahmad Jamal, Les McCann, Chick Corea, Herbie Hancock y al gran maestro del piano en la categoría de jazz Bill Evans, en su búsqueda por ampliar sus conocimientos sobre el jazz.

Con 22 años Gregg formó la banda “Natural Bridge” y tocó como telonero de artistas de la talla de Angela Bofil, Larry Carlton o Jeff Lorber. En 1983 se mudó a Los Ángeles y tocó con muchísimos artistas: Sergio Mendes, The Rippingtons (fue miembro fundador), George Benson, Peter White, Kim Waters, Rick Braun, Patti Austin y otros más. Creó innumerables bandas e incluyó en sus discos jóvenes talentos todavía por descubrir como los saxofonistas Dave Koz

GREGG KARUKAS Discography GK (2009) Looking Up (2005) Heatwave (2002) Nightshift (2000) Blue Touch (1998) You‘ll Know It‘s Me (1995) Home For The Holidays (1993) Summerhouse (1993) Sound Of Emotion (1992) Key Witness (1990) The Nightowl (1987) www.greggkarukas.com

Gregg Karukas live Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2014 el domingo, 4 de mayo, 11:30 hrs am Sonntag, 4. Mai, 11:30 Uhr on Sunday, May 4, 11:30 am

y Boney James. En 1987, coincidiendo con su primera grabación en solitario, “The Nightowl”, Gregg consigue a la vez y con creces, el éxito comercial del genéro smooth jazz en su totalidad y conquistar las emisoras de radio. Desde entonces ha publicado 11 discos. Su reputación como artista dinámico, su inspirador directo junto a su estilo funky y melódico, lo han consolidado en el panorama musical.

Gregg es director musical del grupo ”Dave Koz and Friends Cruise“ (una aventura musical a bordo de un crucero) y ha sido nominado reiteradas veces como mejor teclista por los Oasis and National Smooth Jazz Awards. En 2013 fue galardonado con el Grammy Award como productor, arreglista y co-compositor en “Echoes of Love” de Omar Akram.

Paul Shilts Weimar live Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2014 el domingo, 4 de mayo, 11:30 hrs am Sonntag, 4. Mai, 11:30 Uhr on Sunday, May 4, 11:30 am

Der Saxophonist Paul „Shilts” Weimar stammt aus London und begann seine Karriere mit 15 Jahren, als er in das National Youth Jazz Orchestra of Great Britain berufen wurde. Später spielte er in Nachtclubs und stand mit US-Stars wie The Temptations auf der Bühne.

Schnell etablierte er sich in der Londoner Session-Szene und stand mit Künstlern wie David Bowie und Jimmy Paige im Studio.

Pauls soulful, funky Saxophon-Stil sicherte ihm eine Einladung zu „The Brand New Heavies” im Jahr 1994. Die Zusammenarbeit hielt sechs Jahre und mehrere Welttourneen an. Später wurde er Bandleader und Frontmann des britischen Jazz-Funk Exportschlagers, „Down To The Bone” und feierte große Erfolge in den USA. Sie veröffentlichten 7 Alben, auf denen Paul als Spieler und als Songwriter seinen Anteil hatte.

Im Jahr 2001 debütierte Paul als „Shilts”. Das erste Album „See What Happens” wurde als eines der Top-Platten des Jahres gefeiert und sicherte ihm eine Best New Artist-Nominierung bei den National Smooth Jazz Awards. In Folge verabschiedete er sich von DTTB, um sich auf seine Solokarriere zu konzentrieren. Mit der Gründung seiner eigenen Plattenfirma erschien 2010 die Funk-CD „Going Underground”, dessen Single „Seeing Things Clearly” sich 5 Wochen auf Platz 1 der Jazz-Charts hielt. Sein letztes Album „All Grown Up” (2012), gilt bei Kritikern und Fans als seine bisher beste Arbeit.

El saxofonista londinense Paul “Shilts” Weimar empezó su carrera profesional con 15 años, cuando se unió a la “National Youth Jazz Orchestra of Great Britain” – Orquesta Nacional de Jazz de Jóvenes de Gran Bretaña -. Más tarde tocó en pubs y coincidió en el escenario con estrellas americanas como The Temptations. Rápidamente se estableció en el improvisado ambiente londinense y grabó con artistas como David Bowie y Jimmy Paige.

SHILTS Discography All Grown Up (2012) Going Underground (2010) Jigsaw Life (2008) Headboppin‘ (2006) See What Happens (2001) www.paulshilts.com

El funky y conmovedor estilo de Paul le aseguró formar parte en “The Brand New Heavies” en el año 1994. La cooperación duró seis años y varias giras mundiales. Posteriormente se convirtió en líder de la banda “Down To The Bone”, contribuyendo al gran éxito de exportación del jazz funk británico y cosechando gran éxito en Estados Unidos. Publicaron 7 álbumes, en los cuales Paul tuvo destacada participación tanto como músico como escritor.

UK‘s Soulful Funk Export

En el año 2001 Paul debutó como “Shilts”. El primer álbum “See What Happens” fue reconocido como uno de los discos del año y le aseguró una nominación al “Mejor Artista Revelación por los Premios Nacionales de Smooth Jazz”. Finalemente se despidió del grupo “DTTB” para concentrarse en su carrera en solitario. Con la creación de su propia compañía discográfica, presentó en 2010 el disco funk “Going Underground”, cuyo single “Seeing Things Clearly” se mantuvo 5 semanas en el puesto número 1 de las listas de éxitos del jazz. Su último álbum “All Grown Up” (2012), esta considerado por la crítica y fans como su mejor trabajo hasta ahora.

Saxophonist Paul “Shilts” Weimar hails from London and began his career at the age of 15, when he joined the National Youth Jazz Orchestra of Great Britain. After working in nightclubs, backing US stars such as The Temptations, he soon established himself on the London session scene and recorded with artists like David Bowie and Jimmy Paige.

Paul’s soulful, funky saxophone style ensured him an invitation to “The Brand New Heavies” in 1994. This association lasted for 6 years and several world tours. Later he became bandleader and front-man of the British urban jazz funk export, “Down To The Bone” which enjoyed massive success in the US. DTTB released 7 albums of which Paul was heavily featured, both as a player and as a writer.

In 2001 Paul debuted as “Shilts”. The first album “See What Happens” was recognized as one of the top records of the year and saved him a nomination for Best New Artist at the National Smooth Jazz Awards. He finally said farewell to DTTB to focus on his solo career. With forming his own record label, the full-on funk fortified CD “Going Underground” (2010) came out – its single “Seeing Things Clearly” remained 5 weeks on #1 of the jazz charts. His latest album “All Grown Up” (2012), is named as his best work to date by critics and fans.

Paul Shilts Weimar | Artists 13

14 Festival Partner

Banda Del Festival Festivalband Festival Band

STEPHAN SAGURNA Drums

JÖRG LEHNARDT Guitar

Stephan Sagurna estudió en la Escuela Universitaria de Música de Folkwang en Essen entre sus asignaturas principales: percusión y piano. Trabajó de autónomo como baterista, teclista, compositor y profesor. Ya se había convertido en profesor de batería pop entre otras cosas en la Escuela Universitaria de Música de Osnabrück. A lo largo de su carrera musical hasta ahora ha tocado en el escenario como en el estudio con artistas como Nathan East, Rick Braun, Nils Landgren, Sasha, Max Mutzke y Uwe Ochsenknecht. De ahí que haya participado en diferentes conocidas composiciones como por ejemplo en la de Sasha “Slowly”, en la de Cosmo Klein “Nothing to Loose, Wannabe, Talk to me“, en la de Uwe Ochsenknecht “Raining Down“ y en la de Max Mutzke “Smile“.

El polifacético guitarrista Jörg Lehnardt, se formó en Holanda, no sólo es profesor de guitarra en la Escuela Universitaria de Música y Danza de Colonia, sino que también está muy solicitado como músico en estudio y en directo. Así que actualmente no sólo toca con la banda de groove-jazz “Nighthawks”- cuyo actual álbum “Rio Bravo” se acaba de publicar en febrero de 2014, a partir de abril comienza la gira europea - ; sino que al mismo tiempo también se le puede escuchar en el nuevo disco de “S.Y.P.H”, una de las bandas fundadoras del punk alemán. Además Jörg tiene la intención de sacar este año un álbum en solitario. Ha realizado conciertos y discos con Han Bennink, Bots, Michiel Braam, Blowbeat, Billy Bang, Kazda, First Move, Dewa 19, Paul van Kemenade, Hans Dulfer, Jazzpool NRW, Ali Askin, Kumo y muchos otros.

Stephan Sagurna studied music at the Folkwang University of Art in Essen music - majoring in drums and piano. Since then he has worked as a freelance drummer, keyboardist, composer and lecturer.

He has held teaching positions for pop drums, among others at the Institute of Music of the University of Osnabrück. In his musical career he performed on stage or in the studio with versatile artists such as Nathan East, Rick Braun, Nils Landgren, Sasha, Max Mutzke and Uwe Ochsenknecht. He has been involved in various known compositions – for example in Sasha’s “Slowly”, Cosmo Klein’s “Nothing to Loose, Wannabe, Talk to me,” Uwe Ochsenknecht’s “Raining Down” and Max’s Mutzke “Smile”.

The versatile guitarist Jörg Lehnardt, who studied in Holland, is not only lecturing guitar at the University of Music and Dance Cologne, but also highly sought after as a studio and live musician. He currently plays and plans the European tour with the groove-jazz band “Nighthawks“ – whose latest album „Rio Bravo“ was published in February 2014 –, but also can be heard on the new CD of “SYPH“ , a German punk band from the first hour. In addition, Jörg is planning a solo album this year. He has done concerts and CDs with Han Bennink, Bots, Michiel Braam, Blowbeat, Billy Bang, Kazda, First Move, Dewa 19, Paul van Kemenade, Hans Dulfer, Jazz Pool NRW, Ali Askin, Kumo and many others.

The Festival Band | Artists 15

ANDY PILGER Drums

GÜNTER ASBECK Bass

Andy Pilger es un batería y percusionista de Köln, Alemania.

Comenzó su carrera musical tocando el piano cuando tenía cuatro años y cambió a la batería con nueve. Disfrutó de una educación clásica en la Escuela de Música de Duisburg, donde ganó el premio nacional „Jugend musiziert“. Siendo adolescente asistió a clases de batería con los percusionistas de la Big Band Stephenson Ronnie (Paul Kuhn) y Sperie Karas (emisora de radio WDR) y ganó su segundo premio nacional, el „Jugend jazzt“, en el área del jazz. Estudiaba música clásica y jazz en el Conservatorio Superior de Música de Köln, al mismo tiempo que ya trabajaba como músico profesional en diferentes bandas. Ha tocado y hecho giras y grabaciones con artistas como Caterina Valente, Bill Ramsey, Howard Carpendale, Jennifer Rush, Joy Fleming, Shirley Bassey, Götz Alsmann, The Weather Girls, etc.En la Escena Musical Andy es conocido como una especie de “inventor” y ha tocado en grandes producciones como Starlight Express, Jesucristo Superstar, The Rocky Horror Picture, Cage aux folles, Westside Story, Jinete Negro, Evita, etc. Bajo el sello discográfico “Smooth Jazz label California Sunset Records”, tocó y viajó por toda Europa con Erik Marienthal, Slim Man, Anthony Weedon, Vonda Shepard, Gabriela Anders, Rick Braun y Janita. En 2011 actuó con Herbie Hancock y Lang Lang en el Festival de Jazz del Mar Norte.

Günter Asbeck es un bajista profesional independiente, cantante, compositor, arreglista y productor musical con sede en Köln, Alemania. A través de los años ha trabajado sobre los escenarios y en estudio con artistas como Cascada, Gloria Gaynor, Jennifer Rush, Udo Lindenberg, James Blunt, Hiram Bullock, Sugarbabes, Rick Braun, Anthony Weedon, Slimman, Nathan East, Janita, The Rasmus, etc. Como productor y mezclador formó parte de „Fudge X“ desde 2005 al 2007.

Junto con el legendario productor Jan Hammer, creó el tema „Crockett Theme - In da house remix“ para la película de Hollywood „Miami Vice“, con Colin Farrell y Jamie Foxx, que se mantuvo durante diez semanas en el Top10 alemán. En 2003 fundó un equipo de compositores de canciones con Peter Wieschermann. Además de canciones para las series de la televisión alemana RTL, el equipo también escribió la canción „World Yesterdays“ para los anuncios de televisión alemana de ayuda a la infancia „Kindernothilfe“, que se emitieron en las principales cadenas de televisión del país. En 2006 tocó en dos temas del álbum del grupo alemán „Cascada“, que en 2007 ganó el premio World Music Awards como „Mejor Artista Superventa alemán“. Además, escribe y produce música para anuncios publicitarios para Kia Motors, Klosterfrau, etc

Andy Pilger is a Drummer and Percussion Player from Cologne, Germany. He started his musical career with playing piano when he was four years old and changed to Drums with nine. He enjoyed a classical education on Timps, Snare and Mallets at the Music School Duisburg, where he won the “Jugend musiziert” national award.

Afterwards he joined the German Classical Youth Sinfonie Orchestra.

As teen he attended drumset lessons at the big band drummers Ronnie Stephenson (Paul Kuhn) and Sperie Karas (WDR) and won the national award “Jugend jazzt”. After High School Graduation Andy studied classical music and jazz at the Cologne Conservatory of Music.

At that time he already worked as professional musician in many bands. He played, toured and recorded with artists such as Caterina Valente, Bill Ramsey, Howard Carpendale, Jennifer Rush, Joy Fleming, Shirley Bassey, Götz Alsmann, The Weather Girls, etc. In the MusicalShow Scene Andy is known as a kind of inventory, he played for big productions such as Starlight Express, Jesus Christ Superstar, Rocky Horror Picture Show, Cage aux folles, Westside-Story, Black Rider, Evita, etc. On behalf of the Smooth Jazz Label California Sunset Records, he toured through Europe with Erik Marienthal, Slim Man ,Anthony Weedon, Vonda Shepard, Gabriela Anders, Rick Braun and Janita. In 2011 he performed with Herbie Hancock and Lang Lang at the North Sea Jazz Festival.

Günter Asbeck is a freelance bass player, singer, songwriter, arranger and music producer based in Cologne, Germany. Over the years he has worked on stage and in the studio (bass & vocals) with artists such as Cascada, Gloria Gaynor, Jennifer Rush, Udo Lindenberg, James Blunt, Hiram Bullock, Sugarbabes, Rick Braun, Anthony Weedon, Slimman, Nathan East, Janita, The Rasmus, etc. As producer and remixer he was part of “Fudge X” from 2005-2007. Together with producer legend Jan Hammer, one project was the track “Crockett’s Theme – In da house remix” for the hollywood movie “Miami Vice” with Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx, which stayed in the German Top10 for ten weeks. In 2003 he founded a song writing team with Peter Wieschermann. Besides songs for German TV series (RTL), the team also wrote the song “Yesterdays World” for the TV spots of the German childrens-aid-foundation “Kindernothilfe”, which ran on all major german TV stations. In 2006 he played on two album tracks of the German project “Cascada”, which won the World Music Awards as “Best Selling German Act” in 2007. In addition he writes and produces music for advertising spots on behalf of companies such as Kia motors, Klosterfrau, etc.

16 Artists | The Festival Band

del sábado noche. En 1997 lanzó su primer álbum en solitario „Out of my poket“. En 1999 se fue de gira con la banda “California Sunset Records Allstar” y viajó a través de Europa con estrellas de la escena del jazz de EE.UU. como Nelson Rangell, Nathan East, Rick Braun, Peter White, Eric Marienthal y Gabriela Anders. A esto le siguieron actuaciones junto a Marla Glen en la cadena de televisión alemana ARD, Jennifer Rush en Londres y a actuar hasta en 72 ocasiones en el programa de televisión „Have you ever“, realizado por la cadena VOX. Hasta la fecha, Lutz Deterra prefiere actuar en vivo sobre el escenario. En 2011 publicó su CD “Rue Parnasse”.

LUTZ DETERRA Keyboard | Festival Musical Director El pianista, compositor, arreglista y productor ha estado de gira en los escenarios internacionales como el Wembley Hall de Londres o el Kumputa Festival Hall en Kuala Lumpur con instrumentos musicales de la marca Technics en 1982. Lutz Deterra es miembro del equipo “Matsushita Music Team” desde 1991, que se dedica al diseño de software de teclados Technichs en Japón, donde conoció al músico de jazz Dave Grusin, con quien más tarde realizó una gira en Inglaterra. Su tremenda capacidad de rápida adaptación y su „rápido oído“ lo han convertido en un solicitado músico de sesión en Alemania. Desde entonces, Lutz Deterra toca en formaciones de banda como teclista en diversos éxitos musicales del mundo, como Starlight Express, Elizabeth, Noches de Miami, Tabaluga y Fiebre

The pianist, composer, arranger and producer Lutz Deterra was touring on international stages such as the Wembley Hall in London or the Kumputa Festival Hall in Kuala Lumpur on behalf of the company Technics Musical Instruments from 1982. 1991, Lutz became member of the Matsushita Musician’s team, which was designing the musical software and concepts of Technics keyboards in Japan. In that time, he also met the jazz musician Dave Grusin, with whom he toured in England later. His quick ability to adapt and his “quick ear” made him a popular session musician in Germany. Since then, Lutz Deterra plays in several band formations and as a keyboardist in diverse musical world successes, such as Starlight Express, Elizabeth, Miami Nights, Tabaluga and Saturday Night Fever. In 1997, he released his first solo album “Out of my pocket”. In 1999 he became musical director of the California Sunset Records Allstar Band and toured through Europe with Stars of the U.S. jazz scene like Nelson Rangell, Nathan East, Rick Braun, Peter White, Eric Marienthal and Gabriela Anders. This was followed by engagements with Marla Glen in the ARD (TV), Jennifer Rush in London and 72 times in the TV show “Have you ever” on VOX. Till this date, Lutz Deterra prefers performing live on stage. In 2011, he released his second CD “Rue Parnasse“.

Smooth and global Best of Michael

Nils Guitar Hits The Songbook Collection

Songbooks, CD‘s, Sheetmusic, Label-Services

Lington • 5 songs EP

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The Festival Band | Artists 17

La Sala de conciertos y el Hotel Veranstaltungsort & Hotel Concert Venue & Hotel

Images: Protur Hotels

***** Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa

18 Location | Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa

El Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa de 5 estrellas es un magnífico hotel en Sa Coma. Se encuen-tra junto al parque natural de Punta de n’Amer y a tan sólo 300 metros de la playa de Sa Coma, Mallorca. Dispone de 216 habitaciones distribuidas en 2 suites presidenciales, junior suites, habitaciones dobles deluxe, habitaciones do-bles e individuales. Perfecto para pasar unas vacaciones en pareja, el Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa dispone de todo tipo de comodidades y servicios para que no le falte de nada durante su estancia en este hotel de 5 estrellas.

The high-quality 5-star Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa in Sa Coma, Mallorca, lies only 300 metres from the beach, right on the Punta de n’Amer natural park.

It offers 216 rooms, including two presidential suites, junior suites, deluxe double rooms, double rooms and single rooms. Perfectly suited for a vacation for two, the Protur Gran Hotel & Spa offers facilities, ambience and services that turn the mere stay into a wonderful experience.

Entre los cuidados jardines del hotel encontramos dos piscinas exteriores en las que descansar durante sus vacaciones, al tiempo que aprovecha el sol de Mallorca en una de las camas balinesas o tomando un refrescante tentempié, sin salir de la piscina, en el bar piscina principal.

Between the hotel’s landscaped gardens two stylish and exclusive outdoor pools are arranged with deck chairs and Balinese beds. Here, guests can take advantage of the Mallorcan sun or enjoy delicious cocktails and snacks at the pool bar, without leaving the pool.

La singular piscina interior permite nadar en los meses en los que la temperatura no acompaña. En cualquier momento del año en el Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa podrá relajarse en el Biomar Spa, un centro de spa y wellness de más de 3.500 m2, en donde encontrará todo tipo de masajes y tratamientos para relajarse y reequilibrar cuerpo y mente.

The indoor pool enables swimming during the months when temperatures are low. At the Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa you can relax any time of the year in the Biomar Spa, a spa and wellness centre of more than 3,500 m² with all types of massages and treatments for relaxing and rebalancing body and mind.

La gastronomía del Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa también le seducirá. El show cooking del buffet del restaurante principal ofrece sabores internacionales que se elaboran en vivo por el chef con las mejores carnes y pescados frescos. Más íntimo y personal resulta el restaurante Azafrán, de cocina española y con el toque personal de nuestro chef. Para disfrutar de la mejor pasta y productos italianos tiene el restaurante La Toscana. La cocina asiática en el restaurante Asian y por último, The Terrace Grill, una barbacoa con las mejores carnes y pescados que van directamente de la parrilla al plato.

The Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa’s cuisine will also seduce you. The main buffet restaurant’s show cooking display offers international flavours. The intimate Azafrán restaurant offers typical Spanish cuisine made with the chef’s personal touch. The restaurant La Toscana is all about best pasta and Italian products, while Asian cuisine can be found at the Asian restaurant. Finally, there’s the Terrace Grill, a barbecue serving the best quality meat and fresh fish directly from the grill to the plate.

Das hochwertige Fünf-Sterne Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa in Sa Coma, Mallorca, liegt nur 300 Meter vom Strand entfernt direkt am Naturpark Punta de n’Amer. Es bietet 216 Zimmer, darunter zwei Präsidentensuiten, Junior Suiten, Deluxe-Doppelzimmer, Doppelzimmer und Einzelzimmer. Perfekt für einen Urlaub zu zweit geeignet, offeriert das Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa Anlagen, Ambiente und Services, die aus dem bloßen Aufenthalt ein wahres Erlebnis machen.

Zwischen den gepflegten Gärten des Hotels liegen zwei stilvoll angelegte und exklusive Außenpools mit Liegestühlen. Hier können sich die Gäste von der mallorquinischen Sonne verwöhnen lassen oder an der Poolbar leckere Cocktails und Snacks genießen – wenn sie möchten, auch direkt vom Wasser aus.

Der Innenpool erlaubt es Gästen, selbst in den kälteren Monaten schwimmen zu gehen. Auf einer Fläche von mehr als 3.500 m² steht Entspannungssuchenden zudem das ganze Jahr über das Spa- und Wellness-Zentrum zur Verfügung, das mit zahlreichen Massagen und Behandlungen aufwartet. Hier findet der Körper Entspannung, der Geist Ruhe und die Seele Balance.

Die Gastronomie des Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa ist auf Genuss gepolt, verführt den Gast in verschiedenen Restaurants mit exquisiten Gerichten. Im zentralen Buffet-Restaurant bereiten Köche live internationale Gerichte zu. Intimer und persönlicher ist das Restaurant „Azafrán“, das typisch spanische Küche, zubereitet nach persönlichem Rezept des Küchenchefs, bietet. Um beste Pasta und italienische Produkte hingegen dreht sich alles im Restaurant „La Toscana“, während asiatische Küche auf dem Speiseplan des Restaurants „Asian“ steht. Zu guter Letzt gibt es das „The Terrace Grill“, ein Grill-Restaurant, in dem bestes Fleisch und frischer Fisch direkt vom Grill auf den Teller des Gasts wandern.

Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa | Location 19

Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2013

Good Music. Good Food. Good Wine.

Simply A Good Time...

20 Smooth Lifestyle | Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2013

Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2013 | Smooth Lifestyle 21

1. Unique artists playing cool music.

22 Smooth Lifestyle | Review Smooth Jazz Festival Augsburg 2013

2. Cool people in a unique venue.

Smooth Jazz Festival Augsburg 2013

What are the main ingredients of a great party???

Review by Peter Bรถhi of smoothjazzvibes.com

Review Smooth Jazz Festival Augsburg 2013 | Smooth Lifestyle 23

Having established itself well over the years, the 6th annual Smooth Jazz Festival Augsburg took place September 13-14 at the Parktheater at the Kurhaus Göggingen. Both nights, all the seats were sold out with only a few tickets left in the standing areas, this year‘s edition obviously is a success. Like every year, smooth jazz fans from all across Europe gathered in Augsburg to hear some of their favorite players, have fun and meet like-minded people. I saw many familiar faces from previous years or the Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival (which was held in May this year), talked to fellow music aficionados and musicians, in addition I made some new friends, it was like family.

Again, festival organizer Christian Bössner was able to come up with another great line-up this year, bringing some of the top US smooth jazz players to Europe. With the exception of the Pizza Express in London and Steve Quirk‘s occasional smooth jazz concerts in Manchester, opportunities for smooth jazz artists in Europe have been scarce for years, so the Smooth Jazz Festivals in Mallorca and Augsburg provide a welcome platform to bring over those players. The concept of a local backing band supporting the main players has been working well, so the tried and tested band of Lutz Deterra on keys, Andy Pilger on drums, Günter Asbeck on bass and Martin Feske on guitar took over the job to play four concerts with the headlining US players, learning numerous songs, rehearsing in the afternoon and bringing the music onto the main stage in the evening. As usual, they did an excellent job.

The festival was opened by guitarist Jeff Golub, who turned blind during the summer of 2011 due to collapsed optical nerves, a rare eye disease which struck him suddenly. Thankfully, Jeff continues to pursue his music career, being well supported by the music community, he is touring, plays with many different artists, and just released a new CD Train Keeps A Rolling with organist Brian Auger. In Augsburg, he was led onto the stage and brought to his chair, where he performed his show sitting. He did nice covers of “Always There“ and the classic “Cold Duck Time“, from his own catalog he played a groovy version of “Dangerous Curves“, among other material from his catalog like “Naked City“. Before he was stuck with blindness, he used to be a very dynamic performer jumping around on stage, now being confined to a chair translated to his playing, which was a bit static and less dynamic than before. Nevertheless, he did an admirable job and repeatedly created some heat with his bluesy playing, which was well received with the capacity crowd.

After a short intermission, the heat was turned up with the dynamic duo of saxophonists Steve Cole and Jeff Kashiwa, who are a well-rehearsed team being two thirds of the Sax Pack (with Kim Waters being the third member). Both players belong to the very best, they kicked off the show together with “Just A Natural Thang“ and later alternated performing material from their individual catalogs. In between songs,

24 Smooth Lifestyle | Review Smooth Jazz Festival Augsburg 2013

they were joking and entertaining the audience with their brand of humor. Steve Cole did one of my favorite tracks of his, the soulful “Curtis“, a tribute to Curtis Mayfield and the town of Chicago, where he put all his heart and soul into the strong performance. Another great uptempo track was “Bounce“, while the cover of “Angel“ slowed things down a bit. Jeff Kashiwa also draws from a vast catalog, he played some nice laid-back material next to groovy uptempo material, both players concluded the show with Jeff Kashiwa‘s biggest hit “Hyde Park (The “Ah, Ooh“ Song)“ complete with audience participation. They were asked back to do an encore, so they showed their jazz chops with a cover of Stanley Turrentine‘s “Sugar“, which brought the first night to an end.

Saturday night, the festival continued with the appearance of trumpet player Cindy Bradley with saxophonist Dan Cipriano. The two musicians are a newly wed couple, having married only three weeks ago, and one could feel their happiness. Dan Cipriano was tagged being one of the busiest saxophone players in NYC, and his resume was impressive with some of the biggest names from the rock and pop business he played with in the past. Now, since having fallen in love with Cindy, Dan started to appear with her more frequently and moved a bit more into smooth jazz territory. Being an accomplished player, he had no trouble to adapt to this format. It was clear from the beginning that this was a Cindy Bradley concert, they kicked off the show with “Deja Blue“ and moved on to “Lifted“, both tracks from her awesome Unscripted album, giving both players some time to solo. Another nice one was Wayne Shorter‘s “Footprints“ that allowed for some more extensive soloing, while “You Don‘t Know What Love Is“ played on the muted trumped proved to be a highlight of the show, showing Cindy Bradley‘s skills as a jazz player. In addition, Dan Cipriano did some cool flute playing. The band contributed some nice solos, especially Martin Feske on guitar and Lutz Deterra on keys made some outstanding contributions. They concluded their show with their #1 hit “Massive Transit“ that went down very well with the crowd. An encore was demanded, the band played “Curves Ahead“, finishing a truly great concert. This concert was the highlight of the whole festival for me.

Next was Canadian saxophonist Warren Hill who appeared at the first Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival two years ago, where he left a lasting impression. He was invited back and would guarantee an energetic show, and we were not disappointed. He started the concert with the Beatles‘ “Come Together“, that brought things nicely up to speed, segueing into the next funky track right away, supported by the cooking house band.

Another memorable track was “Skinny Dippin‘“ from his current release La Dolce Vita. He slowed things down with two “baby making songs“ featuring his soprano sax, before he invited his daughter Olivia onto the stage. Olivia is 14 years old and pursues a career in acting/music

»Because we all just want to have a good time!« under the name of Olivia Rox, she did a cover of a Beyoncé song and brought the house down with her expressive and soulful vocals. During another song, Warren made a stroll into the audience and played his sax standing on a chair to the delight of the crowd. The pace picked up with “Mambo 2000“, one of this biggest hits, Martin Feske provided some nice Santana-like guitar playing to this song. Going a bit back in time, Warren did a cover of “Frankenstein“ by the Edgar Winter Group, before it was time to party with “Play That Funky Music“ with some audience participation. This brought another great issue of the Augsburg Jazz Festival to a rousing end.

This year‘s edition of the festival proved to be another winner and it is safe to say that the Augsburg Smooth Jazz Festival has established itself firmly by now and will be a place to hear our favorite smooth jazz artists for years to come. I applaud Christian Bössner for his hard work and dedication to bring this music to us in such a nice package. I already look forward to the Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2014, which will take place May 1-4, 2014 in the Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa, a 5 star hotel in Sa Coma, Mallorca.

Coming soon:

SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL AUGSBURG 2014 12. - 13. September 2014 Park Theater at the Kurhaus Göggingen Augsburg, Germany Hotel Package sale starts in the middle of May 2014.

Single Ticket sale starts on 1. July 2014.

Reservation E-Mail: shop@smooth-entertainment.de

www.augsburg.smoothjazzfestival.de www.smoothjazzeurope.de www.facebook.com/smoothjazzeurope

Review Smooth Jazz Festival Augsburg 2013 | Smooth Lifestyle 25

Hans-Bernd Hülsmann presents his Top Favourite Smooth Jazz Albums of 2014

Smooth Music all around ... wonderful jazz, introspective vocals, lifestyle soundtracks for us all to incorporate into our days, nights and weekends. Here is a list of my personal favorites so far this year!

Reviews by Hans-Bernd Hülsmann of Smooth & Soul - Your guide to the world of smooth jazz (smooth-jazz.de)

NAJEE – The Morning After: A Musical Love Journey

ALEX BUGNON – Harlem Montreux, Switzerland born contemporary jazz pianist Alex Bugnon enthused the smooth jazz audience with numerous albums.

Now he returns with the album “Harlem”.

The album starts with the slow paced “Bridging The Gap” – the melodious piece gives him enough approaches to put his dexterity on the piano to the test.

Further well-known covers are Curtis Mayfield’s “Pusherman”, Dizzy Gillespie’s “Night In Tunisia“ or Burt Bacharach’s “A House Is Not A Home”. Bugnon’s own composition “Stompin’ At Mikell’s” is a very own homage to New York’s legendary jazz club on the corner of 97th Street and Columbus Avenue.

My personal highlight of this album is “Manhattan Lullaby”, which can be measured by its intensity with pieces by Pat Metheny. Thus the circle is closed, which Alex Bugnon encompasses with his album Harlem. From Smooth Jazz to Bebop and Swing united by the maestro himself.

26 Smooth Lifestyle | CD Reviews

There are only a few saxophonists, who really spread magic. Najee is one of them. A legend for a whole generation, but still a vital artist in the music industry, especially in smooth jazz!

“The Morning After (A Musical Love Journey)” is his second album for Shanachie Entertainment. With the starting “Rendezvous” Najee immediately creates an atmosphere of familiar elegance, which makes the song so easily acceptable and catchy.

The album also focuses on songs about charming places in the world. San Tropez, the sophisticated city on the French Rivera, exerts a special attraction to Najee. Najee processes his impression with strong jazz integrations.

Another aspect, which can be found again on Najee’s albums, is the interpersonal relationship.

The final piece “W72 and Broadway” presents Najee’s straight ahead jazz side in conjunction with Brian Bromberg on upright bass. The “Morning After: A Musical Love Journey” differs from the glossy polished smooth jazz albums of other contemporaries.

That makes this album unique and keeps it in memory.

JAREZ – On Top Of The World STREETWIZE – Body Party As part of the Streetwize series, Shanachie releases “Streetwize Body Party”. Spiritus Rector is as usual Saxophonist Kim Waters supported by the Streetwize allstars. That are Odell Ross (guitars), Dana Pope, and Jakeem Ali Jones (background vocals).

Kim Waters and Chris “Big Dog” Davis are the producers of the album. Both certainly know what’s good for radio, what’s marketable. This motto in mind they please the audience with cool interpretations of recent smash hits. The album offers known and timely covers of R&B hits such as Ciara’s “Body Party”, Bruno Mars’ “When I Was Your Man” or Chrisette Michele’s “A Couple of Forevers”.

Kim Waters and Chris “Big Dog” Davis create a substantial and charming atmosphere. Always on the pulse of current music Kim Waters and his team perfectly transformed Urban R&B hits to smooth jazz. An entertaining experience of the better kind.

Saxophonist Jarez (born Jarel Posey) is inspired by John Coltrane, Miles Davis and Charlie Parker. In 2001 Jarez started touring around the world with Grammy Award winning rapper Coolio. While he still has a strong connection to this rapper, Jarez is now working on his own solo career.

His solo albums are “To The Top” (2007), “Saxoholic” (2009), and this year “On Top Of The World”.

His recording was supported by AJ Luke (guitar, vocals), and Keenan Holloway (bass). In view of the minimal cast as a trio, the result is nevertheless striking.

The title song “On Top Of The World” excites with an enthralling melody with vocals and instrumentation complement each other perfectly. Jarez declares that his greatest desire is to be the “Tiger Woods of jazz.” To explain, he says, “Tiger made an old man’s game exciting and real for kids. I want to do the same for jazz, make it cool again.” Jarez shows in his new album good approaches to realize this goal in near future.