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

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Festival Partner & Imprint

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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, Sandra Hoffmann Ventas de anuncios / Anzeigenverkauf / Ad Sales: Christian Bössner Fecha de edición / Erscheinungstermin / Date of publication: 3/2016 Alle Angaben trotz sorgfältiger Bearbeitung ohne Gewähr.

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

Foto de portada / Titelfoto / Cover photo: Nathan East

Contenido Inhalt Content Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival Intro .........................................................................................................................3 Saludo / Begrüßung / Salutation ..................................................................4 Programa del festival / Festivalprogramm / Festival program ...........5 Artistas / Künstler / Artists Gerald Veasley | Eric Darius ..........................................................................6 | 7 Gail Jhonson | Gerald Albright .....................................................................8 | 9 Steve Cole | Peet Project ............................................................................10 | 11 Nathan East | Joey Sommerville .............................................................12 | 13 Paul Taylor | Nils ..........................................................................................14 | 15 Team Harmony ...................................................................................................16 Músicos del festival / Festivalmusiker / Festival Musicians ..............18 Ubicación / Location / Location Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa ....................................................................20 Smooth Lifestyle Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2015 ..............................................22 Review Smooth Jazz Festival Augsburg 2015 .............................................26 Preview Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 ...............................................28 CD Reseñas / CD-Tipps / CD Reviews .........................................................30

Intro | Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival

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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.

Since spring 2012, 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.

We look forward to having a great time, Sandra & Christian

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.

Seit Frühjahr 2012 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.

Wir freuen uns auf eine tolle Zeit, Sandra & Christian

Good music.

Good food.

Good wine.

Good time!

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).

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, piscina exterior y cubierta. Situado a tan sólo 300 metros de la playa, junto al 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.

En el escenario damos la bienvenida a las estrellas actualmente más destacadas del panorama internacional del Jazz Contemporáneo y del Smooth Jazz.

Esperamos que lo disfrutéis, Sandra y Christian

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Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival | Salutation

Reservas / Reservierung / Reservation Lugares del evento / Veranstaltungsorte / Venues * Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa | C./ Baladres, 5 | 07560 Sa Coma, Mallorca ** Església Nova | Carrer de ses Creus, 4 | 07550 Son Servera, Mallorca Entradas para conciertos y Paquetes de hotel Konzerttickets & Hotelpakete Concert Tickets & Hotel Packages Ticket-Hotline: (+34) 971 587 520 | www.mallorca.smoothjazzfestival.de

Eventos adicionales Rahmenprogramm Additional Program Martes, 26 de abril / Dienstag, 26. April / Tuesday, April 26 19:30 h

21:30 h

Conciertos En Vivo Live-Konzerte Live Concerts

Cena Gala Bienvenida con los ARTISTAS* Willkommens-Gala-Dinner mit den KÜNSTLERN* Welcome Gala Dinner with the ARTISTS* Concierto Pre-Festival en el Piano Bar* Pre-Festivalkonzert in der Piano Bar* Pre-festival concert at the Piano Bar*

Miércoles, 27 de abril / Mittwoch, 27. April / Wednesday, April 27

Miércoles, 27 de abril / Mittwoch, 27. April / Wednesday, April 27

10:00 h

20:30 h 21:00 h

Excursión en bus a un Bodega tradicional incl. degustación de vinos y concierto de TEAM HARMONY Bus-Trip in eine traditionelle Bodega inklusive Weinprobe & Live-Musik mit TEAM HARMONY Bus trip to a traditional Bodega including wine tasting & live-music by TEAM HARMONY

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance** SMOOTH JAZZ ALLSTARS featuring GERALD ALBRIGHT, NATHAN EAST, GERALD VEASLEY, PAUL TAYLOR, STEVE COLE, ERIC DARIUS, NILS, GAIL JOHNSON, JOEY SOMMERVILLE & TEAM HARMONY (Open-air concert in Església Nova, Son Servera)

Jueves, 28 de abril / Donnerstag, 28. April / Thursday, April 28

Jueves, 28 de abril / Donnerstag, 28. April / Thursday, April 28

10:00 h Excursión en barca/bus a Cala Rajada

Boots-/Bus-Trip nach Cala Rajada

Boat/bus trip to Cala Rajada

20:15 h 20:45 h 22:15 h 23:45 h

Viernes, 29 de abril / Freitag, 29. April / Friday, April29

Viernes, 29 de abril / Freitag, 29. April / Friday, April 29

10:00 h Excursión en bus a Alcudia & Cap Formentor

Bus-Trip nach Alcudia & Cap Formentor

Bus trip to Alcudia & Cap Formentor

20:15 h 20:45 h 22:15 h 23:45 h

Sábado, 30 de abril / Samstag, 30. April / Saturday, April 30

Sábado, 30 de abril / Samstag, 30. April / Saturday, April 30

10:00 h Actividades diversas de anfitrión*

Div. Aktivitäten auf dem Hotelgelände*

Several activities on the hotel area*

14:00 h Entrada / Einlass / Entrance* 14:30 h STEVE COLE 16:00 h PEET PROJECT 20:15 h 20:45 h 22:15 h 23:45 h

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance* GERALD VEASLEY ERIC DARIUS Aftershow Chillout (DJ Richard Edwards)

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance* GAIL JHONSON GERALD ALBRIGHT Aftershow Chillout (DJ Richard Edwards)

Entrada / Einlass / Entrance* NATHAN EAST JOEY SOMMERVILLE Aftershow Chillout (DJ Richard Edwards)

Domingo, 1 de mayo / Sonntag, 1. Mai / Saturday, May 1

Domingo, 1 de mayo / Sonntag, 1. Mai / Sunday, May 1

21:30 h Concierto Post-Festival en el Piano Bar*

Post-Festivalkonzert in der Piano Bar*

Post-festival concert at the Piano Bar*

10:30 h Entrada / Einlass / Entrance* 11:00 h PAUL TAYLOR 12:30 h NILS ~13:45 h Fin de Festival / Ende des Festivals / End of the festival

Festival program | Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival

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FACTS No.12 album at the Billboard jazz chart Performed with Chuck Loeb, Will Downing, Grover Washington Jr. etc.

Founder & artistic director of the Bass BootCamp

Gerald Veasley

DISCOGRAPHY

Gerald Veasleys musikalische Reise hat ihn als Bassist, Bandleader, Komponist, Produzent und Lehrer an die Spitze der zeitgenössischen Musikwelt geführt. Er stand schon mit einer Vielzahl weltweiter TopPerformer aus unterschiedlichsten Genres im Studio oder auf der Bühne, darunter der unvergessene Grover Washington Jr., Chuck Loeb, Kim Waters, Nick Colionne, Special EFX, Gerald Levert, Teddy Pendergrass, The Dixie Hummingbirds, Will Downing oder Pat Martino. Wenn er nicht gerade mit namhaften Künstlern arbeitet, ist Gerald mit seiner eigenen Band im Studio oder auf Tour. Zudem unterrichtet er an der Fakultät der University of the Arts in Philadelphia, ist Gründer und künstlerischer Leiter von Gerald Veasley‘s Bass BootCamp sowie momentaner Kurator der „Unscripted Jazz Series“ mit Special Guests wie Kirk Whalum, Raul Midón oder Gerald Albright. Im Moment arbeitet er auch an zwei Projekten: „The Purple House“ und Songs, die von seinen musikalischen Wurzeln in Philadelphia zeugen. Geralds Auftritte als Bassist sind erstklassig und wann immer er Musik macht, macht er es absolut professionell und mit viel Spaß.

The Electric Mingus Project (2011) Your Move (2008) Live At The Jazz Base (2005) Velvet (2003) On The Fast Track (2001) Love Letters (1999) Soul Control (1997) Signs (1996) Look Ahead (1992) www.geraldveasley.com

Image: Gerald Veasley

Gerald Veasley’s musical odyssey has taken him to the top of the contemporary music world as a bassist, bandleader, composer, producer and educator. He has recorded and/or performed with many of the world’s top performers in many genres of music such as the late, great Grover Washington Jr., Chuck Loeb, Kim Waters, Nick Colionne, Special EFX, Gerald Levert, Teddy Pendergrass, The Dixie Hummingbirds, Will Downing and Pat Martino. When not collaborating with notable artists, Gerald tours and records with his band. Beyond that he is on the faculty of the University of the Arts in Philadelphia, he is founder and artistic director of Gerald Veasley’s Bass BootCamp and he is currently curator of the “Unscripted Jazz Series” with special guests such as Kirk Whalum, Raul Midón and Gerald Albright. At the moment, he also works on two projects, “The Purple House” and songs from his musical ties to Philadelphia. Gerald’s performance as a bassist has been top shelf and whatever he does, he always brings a joyous, polished professionalism to the process of making music.

Gerald Veasley live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 on Thursday, 28. April, 20:45 h & on Wednesday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

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Artists | Gerald Veasley

El viaje musical realizado por Gerald Veasley como bajo, líder de banda, compositor, productor y docente lo ha llevado a la cumbre del mundo musical contemporáneo. Tanto en el estudio como en los escenarios lo encontramos junto a estrellas de renombre mundial y de los más diversos géneros, como el inolvidado Grover Washington Jr., Chuck Loeb, Kim Waters, Nick Colionne, Special EFX, Gerald Levert, Teddy Pendergrass, The Dixie Hummingbirds, Will Downing o Pat Martino. Si no se encuentra trabajando con algún artista de renombre Gerald está en el estudio o de gira con su propia banda. Además imparte clases en la facultad de la Universidad de las Artes en Philadelphia, es el fundador y director artístico de Gerald Veasley‘s Bass BootCamp así como el curador momentáneo de „Unscripted Jazz Series” que presenta invitados especiales como Kirk Whalum, Raul Midón o Gerald Albright. Actualmente también trabaja en dos projectos: „The Purple House” y canciones que demuestran sus raíces musicales en Philadelphia. Las actuaciones de Gerald como bajo son de primera calidad, y siempre cuando toca música lo hace de una manera profesionalísima y con placer.

Image: Eric Darius

Eric Darius live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 on Thursday, 28. April, 22:15 h & on Wednesday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

Eric Darius Eric Darius es uno de aquellos artistas que cruzan sin miedo todas las fronteras musicales, desde el jazz, el R&B, la música pop y el reggae hasta el hip-hop, el rock y el gospel, para crear desde aquí su sonido inconfundible y fresco.

Creció en una familia de músicos – su padre era natural de Haití, su madre de Jamaica, por eso se concedía gran importancia a la música caribeña – y descubrió su amor por la música ya a una temprana edad. A los nueve años, cuando escuchó un saxófono en una iglesia, se „quedó pasmado” por el sensible sonido del instrumento. A los once años – después de solo tener un año de práctica – se le admitió en la banda de Sonny La Rosa, a la vez la „Youngest Jazz Band“ de América. El grupo giró por todo el país e incluso tocó en el Montreux Jazz Festival en Suiza.

Su explosivo ascenso al mundo de los negocios de la música, con escasos 17 años, causó sensación a nivel mundial. Desde entonces Eric ha lanzado seis álbumes – entre los que se encuentran un sencillo que ocupa el primer lugar y siete éxitos radiofónicos top10 en los rankings R&B de Nielsen y los Billboard contemporary jazz charts – y ha compartido el escenario con artistas mundialmente conocidos y ganadores del Grammy como Prince, Jamie Foxx, Mary J. Blige, Carlos Santana, George Benson y muchos más.

Eric Darius ist einer jener Künstler, der furchtlos alle musikalischen Grenzen überschreitet, von Jazz, R&B, Pop und Reggae bis Hip-Hop, Rock und Gospel, um daraus seinen ganz eigenen, unverwechselbar-frischen Sound zu machen. Er wuchs in einer Musikerfamilie auf – sein Vater stammt aus Haiti, seine Mutter aus Jamaica, daher wurde karibische Musik dort großgeschrieben – und entdeckte seine Liebe zur Musik schon sehr früh.

Als er als Neunjähriger in der Kirche ein Saxophon hörte, war er „hin und weg“ von dem gefühlvollen Klang des Instruments. Als 11-Jähriger – nach nur einem Jahr Spielpraxis – wurde er in Sonny La Rosas und Amerikas „Youngest Jazz Band“ aufgenommen. Die Gruppe tourte durchs ganze Land und spielte sogar auf dem Montreux Jazz Festival in der Schweiz. Sein kometenhafter Einstieg ins professionelle Musikgeschäft im Alter von 17 Jahren hat weltweit für Furore gesorgt. Seither hat Eric sechs Solo-Alben veröffentlicht – darunter eine #1-Hit-Single und sieben Top 10 Radio Hits in Nielsen’s R&R und den Billboard Contemporary Jazz Charts – und die Bühne mit weltbekannten Künstlern und Grammy-Gewinnern wie beispielsweise Prince, Jamie Foxx, Mary J. Blige, Carlos Santana, George Benson und vielen mehr geteilt.

Saxophonist, composer, producer, and vocalist Eric Darius is one of those artists fearlessly pushing all musical boundaries from Jazz, R&B, Pop and Reggae to Hip-Hop, Rock and Gospel, creating a very distinctive, fresh sound and approach that is uniquely his own.

Hailing from a musical family with rich traditions in Caribbean music (his father is from Haiti and his mother is from Jamaica), Eric realized his calling for music at an early age. He was “blown away by the soul and emotion” of a saxophone being played at his church when he was only nine years old.

By age eleven – after only playing for one year – Eric was chosen to be in Sonny LaRosa’s and America‘s Youngest Jazz Band.

The group toured the country and even played at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland. His explosive arrival as a recording artist at the age of 17 caused a frenzy worldwide. Since then, he has released six solo-albums – including a #1 hit single and Seven Top 10 radio hits on Nielsen’s R&R/Billboard Contemporary Jazz Charts – and has shared the stage with world renown, Grammy Awardwinning artists, such as Prince, Jamie Foxx, Mary J. Blige, Carlos Santana and George Benson, just to name a few.

FACTS 7 Top10 radio hits 1 No.1 hit & 3 Top10 albums at the Billboard jazz charts DISCOGRAPHY Retro Forward (2014) On A Mission (2010) Goin‘ All Out (2008) Just Getting Started (2006) Night On The Town (2004) Cruisin‘ (2000) www.ericdarius.com

Eric Darius | Artists

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Born and raised in Philadelphia, Gail’s fascination for the piano began at the young age of 10. By 14, Gail had played her first professional gig. After she had graduated from the Berklee College of Music, with a B.A. in Composition, Gail made the move west, to Los Angeles and established herself in the vibrant heart of the music industry. Her resume as a recording artist and touring musician includes appearances with such notables as Mindi Abair, Bobby Womack, Ray Parker Jr., Pink and Milli Vanilli. She has also appeared on TV and performed on Jazz Festivals with Cindy Bradley, Jeff Lorber, Patti Austin, Marion Meadows and many others. Beyond that, she has been musical director for Norman Brown for many years. In 2010 and 2011 The American Black Music Association awarded Gail a Spotlight Award as “Best Jazz Musician.” Gail leads the all female ensemble “Jazz in P!nk”, featuring artists as Karen Briggs, Althea Rene and Mariea Antoinette, but she also has her own band “3 Piece Suit”. Her music is built on a foundation of straight-ahead jazz, R&B, Funk and Gospel.

Geboren und aufgewachsen in Philadelphia, hat Gail ihre Faszination für das Klavier im zarten Alter von zehn entdeckt. Mit 14 spielte sie ihren ersten professionellen Gig. Nachdem sie das Berklee College of Music mit einem B.A. in Komposition abgeschlossen hatte, zog Gail nach Los Angeles und etablierte sich im pulsierenden Herzen der Musikindustrie. Ihr Resümee als Studio- und Tourmusikerin beinhaltet Auftritte mit Größen wie Mindi Abair, Bobby Womack, Ray Parker Jr., Pink und Milli Vanilli. Sie ist auch schon im Fernsehen gewesen und spielte auf Jazz Festivals mit Cindy Bradley, Jeff Lorber, Patti Austin, Marion Meadows und vielen mehr. Abgesehen davon ist sie seit Jahren Norman Browns Musikdirektor. 2010 und 2011 zeichnete sie die American Black Music Association mit dem Spotlight Award als „Best Jazz Musician“ aus. Gail führt das reine Frauen-Ensemble „Jazz in P!nk“ mit Künstlerinnen wie Karen Briggs, Althea Rene und Mariea Antoinette. Sie hat aber auch ihre eigene Band „3 Piece Suit“.

Ihre Musik basiert auf Einflüssen aus dem Straight-Ahead-Jazz, R&B, Funk und Gospel.

Nacida y crecida en Philadelphia, Gail encuentra su fascinación por el piano a la temprana edad de 10 años. A los 14 tuvo su primer actuación profesional. Luego de haber terminado el Berklee College of Music con un B.A. en composición se traslada a Los Angeles y se establece en el palpitante corazón de la industria musical.

Su compendio musical en el estudio y en giras incluye actuaciones con autoridades como Mindi Abair, Bobby Womack, Ray Parker Jr., Pink y Milli Vanilli. También tuvo incidencia en la televisión y tocó en festivales jazzísticos con Cindy Bradley, Jeff Lorber, Patti Austin, Marion Meadows y muchos más. Además es, desde hace años, la directora musical de Norman Brown. 2010 y 2011 la American Black Music Association le concedió el Spotlight Award como „Best Jazz Musician“. Gail dirige „Jazz in P!nk“, una agrupación exclusivamente de mujeres con artistas como Karen Briggs, Althea Rene y Mariea Antoinette. Pero también tiene su propia banda „3 Piece Suit“. Su música está influenciada por straight-ahead-jazz, R&B, funk y gospel.

FACTS No.9 album at the Billboard jazz chart Leader of the ensemble Jazz in P!nk Musical director of Norman Brown DISCOGRAPHY Gail Jhonson live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 on Friday, 29. April, 20:45 h & on Wednesday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

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New Beginnings (2015) Herstory (2011) Jazzy Keyboards, Vol. 1 (2009) Pearls (2008) It‘s About Time (2007) Keep The Music Playing (2004)

Artists | Gail Jhonson

www.gailjhonson.com

Image: Gail Jhonson

Gail Jhonson

FACTS 17 solo albums Over 1 million albums sold 7x Grammy nominee 3 No.1 & 11 Top5 albums plus 4 No.1 hits at the Billboard jazz charts

Gerald Albright

DISCOGRAPHY Slam Dunk (2014) Summer Horns (2013) 24/7 (2012) Pushing The Envelope (2010) Sax For Stax (2008) New Beginnings (2006) Kickin‘ It Up (2004) Groovology (2002) Very Best Of (2001) Pleasures Of The NIght (1998) etc. www.geraldalbright.com

Gerald, einer der größten Stars des R&B, Contemporary, Straight-Ahead und Smooth Jazz, hat sich seinen Ruf als „Musician’s Musician“ verdient. Geboren in Los Angeles, begann er bereits in frühester Kindheit mit dem Klavier spielen. Später lernte er Saxophon und wechselte für einige Zeit auch auf Bass. In den 80er Jahren war Gerald ein gefragter Studiomusiker und tourte mit Künstlern wie Quincy Jones und Whitney Houston, nahm aber auch einige erfolgreiche Solo-Alben auf. Nachdem zwei davon Platz 1 der Billboard Contemporary Jazz Charts erobert und ihm seine ersten GrammyNominierungen eingebracht hatten (1989, 1990), verpflichtete ihn Phil Collins als Frontmann für seine Big Band und sie tourten gemeinsam. Er spielte auch mit zahlreichen anderen Stars, u.a. Jeff Lorber, George Duke, Earl Klugh, Will Downing, Jonathan Butler und Chaka Khan. Im Laufe der Jahre ist er in zahlreichen TV-Shows zu Gast gewesen, hat allein in den USA weit mehr als eine Million Tonträger verkauft und hat auf fast 200 Alben von anderen Künstlern mitgewirkt. Ganz nebenbei folgten noch fünf weitere Grammy-Nominierungen: „New Beginnings”, „Sax for Stax”, „Pushing the Envelope”, „24/7” und „Slam Dunk”.

One of the biggest stars of R&B, contemporary, straight-ahead and smooth jazz, Gerald Albright has earned his reputation as a “musician’s musician.” Born in Los Angeles, he began piano lessons at an early age. Later, he learned to play saxophone and also switched to bass guitar for some time. During the ’80s, Albright became a highly requested session musician, toured with artists like Quincy Jones and Whitney Houston and also went on to record successful solo albums. After two of these hit number one on Billboard’s Top Contemporary Jazz Chart and earned him his first Grammy nominations (1989, 1990), Phil Collins asked him to front a Big Band and they toured together. He also performed and toured with Jeff Lorber, George Duke, Earl Klugh, Will Downing, Jonathan Butler and Chaka Khan, among many others. Over the years, Albright has appeared on numerous TV shows, has sold over a million albums in the U.S. alone and has appeared on nearly 200 albums by other artists.

Along the way, five more Grammy nominations followed: “New Beginnings”, “Sax for Stax”, “Pushing the Envelope”, “24/7” and “Slam Dunk”.

Gerald Albright live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 on Friday, 29. April, 22:15 h & on Wednesday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

Image: Lori Stoll

Gerald, una de las estrellas más grandes del R&B, contemporary, straight-ahead y smooth jazz, tiene muy merecida su fama como „músico de los músicos”. Nacido en Los Angeles, empezó a tocar el piano a temprana edad. Más tarde aprendió el saxófono y cambió por un tiempo al bajo. En los años 80 Gerald fue un músico de estudio muy solicitado y giró con artistas como Quincy Jones y Whitney Houston, pero también grabó algunos exitosos álbumes propios. Después de que dos de éstos conquistaran el primer lugar del ranking de los Billboard contemporary jazz charts y le trajeran sus primeras dos nominaciones al Grammy (1989, 1990), Phil Collins le contrató como el „frontman” de su big band y con él realizó giras. Además tocó con numerosas otras estrellas, como Jeff Lorber, George Duke, Earl Klugh, Will Downing, Jonathan Butler y Chaka Khan. En el transcurso de los años ha sido invitado a numerosos espectáculos televisivos y sólo en los Estados Unidos ha vendido más de un millión de medios de grabación así como también ha colaborado en casi 200 álbumes de otros artistas. Y como de paso siguieron cinco nominaciones al Grammy más: „New Beginnings”, „Sax for Stax”, „Pushing the Envelope”, „24/7” y „Slam Dunk”.

Gerald Albright | Artists

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Saxophonist Steve Cole is one of the most celebrated players in contemporary jazz. The Chicago native exploded onto the scene in 1998 with the album “Stay Awhile” that was produced by fellow Chicagoan Brian Culbertson. The disc scored two #1 hits and earned Cole the Oasis Smooth Jazz Award for best new artist shortly before his sophomore set, “Between Us”, followed. His catchy singles made him an instant radio favorite and he cranked them out with regularity on subsequent albums “NY LA”, “Spin” and “True”. In addition to his work as solo artist, Steve has performed/recorded with artists like Junior Wells, Buddy Guy, Boz Scaggs, Larry Carlton, Jeff Lorber, and Freddie Cole. He has also been a featured soloist with the City of Prague Orchestra, and The Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Steve is also a founding member of The Sax Pack, a sax trio completed by Marcus Anderson and Jeff Kashiwa. In the 15 years since the release of his debut record, Steve has traveled full-circle creatively and arrived back home on “Pulse,” mixing R&B, contemporary jazz, gospel, blues and pop.

FACTS

Steve Cole Steve Cole live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 on Saturday, 30. April, 14:30 h & on Wednesday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

4 No.1 R&R smooth jazz hits 5 Top15 albums at the Billboard jazz chart Founding member of The Sax Pack DISCOGRAPHY Pulse (2013) Moonlight (2011) True (2006) Spin (2005) NY LA (2003) Between Us (2000) Stay Awhile (1998)

Image: Raj Naik

www.stevecole.net

Steve Cole ist einer der gefeiertsten Saxophonisten im Contemporary Jazz. Der Chicagoer schlug 1998 mit seinem Album „Stay Awhile“, produziert von Brian Culbertson, in der Szene ein. Die CD landete zwei #1 Hits und brachte Cole – kurz bevor der Nachfolger „Between Us“ erschien – den Oasis Smooth Jazz Award als „Best New Artist“ ein. Seine eingängigen Singles, die er mit Alben wie „NY LA“, „Spin“ und „True“ wie am Fließband produzierte, machten ihn auch im Radio beliebt. Neben seiner Arbeit als Solokünstler hat Steve mit vielen anderen Musikern performed und aufgenommen, darunter Junior Wells, Buddy Guy, Boz Scaggs, Larry Carlton, Jeff Lorber und Freddie Cole. Zudem trat er als Solist im City of Prague Orchester sowie im Chicago Symphony Orchester auf und gründete mit Marcus Anderson und Jeff Kashiwa das Sax-Trio „The Sax Pack“. In den 15 Jahren, die nach seiner ersten Veröffentlichung verstrichen sind, hat sich Steve auf seiner musikalischen Reise kreativ voll ausgelebt und ist mit „Pulse“ wieder zuhause angekommen. Auf dem Album mixt er R&B, Contemporary Jazz, Gospel, Blues und Pop.

Steve Cole es uno de los saxofonistas más elogiados en el contemporary jazz. En 1998 el chicagüense marcó su éxito en la escena con su álbum „Stay Awhile“, producido por Brian Culbertson. El disco arrojó dos éxitos no. 1 y Cole fue galardonado – poco antes de aparecer el sucesor „Between Us“ – con el Oasis Smooth Jazz Award como el „Best New Artist“ (mejor artista de revelación). Sus pegadizos discos sencillos, que produjera en cadena paralelamente a álbumes como „NY LA“, „Spin“ y „True“, también le congraciaron con la radio. Al lado de su trabajo como solista Steve actuó y grabó con muchos músicos, entre ellos Junior Wells, Buddy Guy, Boz Scaggs, Larry Carlton, Jeff Lorber y Freddie Cole. Además tocó como solista en la orquesta City of Prague y en la Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Junto con Marcus Anderson y Jeff Kashiwa fundó el trio de saxo „The Sax Pack“. En los 15 años que han pasado desde su primera grabación Steve ha gozado en su viaje musical plenamente de su creatividad y con „Pulse“ ha regresado a casa. En el álbum mezcla el R&B con el contemporary jazz, el gospel, el blues y la músia pop.

10 Artists | Steve Cole

The members of Hungarian jazz/pop/funk group Peet Project are still in their early twenties, but they have already released four albums – in addition to a “Debut Artist of the Year” title garnered at the Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival (2013). Their original music is a seductive and eclectic blend, reflecting influences encompassing Brian Culbertson (with whom they produced the opening track of their second CD), Candy Dulfer, George Duke, Earth Wind and Fire and The Rippingtons, among others. The group’s driving force is violinist, composer and producer Peter “Peet” Ferencz. He gives the band its unique sound through his use of violin as a lead instrument in an equivalent role to saxophone or keyboards. In 2014, Peet began to work on their most complex album to date, “Love”, with former bassist Dávid Szedlár and a brand new line-up comprising Attila Závodi (sax), Olivér Magán (keyboards), and twin brothers Martin and Marcell Gudics (bass and drums). This album showcases more energy, more vocals and a lot of Funk, Soul and Pop mingled with vintage stylistic flavors reminiscent of 70s and 80s music. The first single “Jazz & Wine” made it to the Billboard Smooth Jazz Top 30.

Los miembros del grupo húngaro de jazz, música pop y funk, Peet Project, son jóvenes de escaso veinte años, pero ya han lanzado cuatro álbumes – y sobresalieron ganando el título de „artista de revelación” del año 2013 en el festival JazzTrax en la isla Catalina. Su música original es una mezcla cautivadora y ecléctica de influencias, entre otras, de Brian Culbertson (con el que produjeran el track introductorio de su segundo disco compacto), Candy Dulfer, George Duke, Earth Wind and Fire y los Rippingtons. La fuerza motriz del grupo es el violinista, compositor y productor Peter „Peet” Ferencz. El le otorga a la banda un extraordinario timbre usando su violín como instrumento líder, al igual que lo son el saxófono o el teclado. 2014 y junto con el ex-bajo Dávid Szedlár y un line-up flamante, conformado por Attila Závodi (saxófono), Oliver Magán (teclados) y los hermanos gemelos Martin y Marcel Gudics (bajo y batería), Peet comenzó a trabajar en su obra más compleja hasta la fecha: „Love”. Este álbum presenta más energía, más canto y un sinfín de funk, soul y música pop y está adornado con aromas de vintage que recuerdan la música de los 70 y 80. El primer sencillo, „Jazz & Wine“, logró entrar en los Billboard smooth jazz top30.

Image: Peet Project

Peet Project

Peet Project live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 on Saturday, 30. April, 16:00 h

Die Mitglieder der ungarischen Jazz-, Pop-, Funk-Gruppe Peet Project sind noch in ihren frühen Zwanzigern, aber sie haben schon vier Alben veröffentlicht – und auf dem Catalina Island JazzTrax Festival 2013 zudem den Titel „Debut Artist of the Year“ abgesahnt.

Ihre ursprüngliche Musik ist eine verführerische und eklektische Mischung aus Einflüssen von Brian Culbertson (mit dem sie den Eröffnungstrack ihrer zweiten CD produziert haben), Candy Dulfer, George Duke, Earth Wind and Fire und The Rippingtons. Treibende Kraft ist der Geiger, Komponist und Produzent Peter „Peet“ Ferencz.

Er verleiht der Band ihren einzigartigen Klang, indem er seine Violine als Lead-Instrument, ebenbürtig zu Saxophon oder Keyboards, einsetzt. 2014 begann Peet gemeinsam mit dem ehemaligen Bassisten Dávid Szedlár und einem brandneuen Line-up, bestehend aus Attila Závodi (Sax), Oliver Magán (Keyboards) und den Zwillingsbrüdern Martin und Marcel Gudics (Bass und Schlagzeug), an seinem bislang komplexesten Werk zu arbeiten: „Love“. Dieses Album präsentiert mehr Energie, mehr Gesang und eine Unmenge an Funk, Soul und Pop, garniert mit Vintage-Aromen, die an die Musik der 70er und 80er erinnern. Die erste Single „Jazz & Wine“ schaffte es in die Billboard Smooth Jazz Top 30.

FACTS Debut Artist of the Year 2013 Hungarian jazz/pop/funk group All band members are still in their early twenties DISCOGRAPHY Love (2015) Overseas (2013) Turn On You (2011) Pink Spirit (2010) www.peetproject.com

Peet Project | Artists 11

Image: Nathan East

Nathan East

FACTS Grammy nominated solo album Several Grammy nominations as founding member of Fourplay One of the most recorded bass players in the history of music (appeared on more than 2000 albums) DISCOGRAPHY The New Cool (2015) Nathan East (2014) www.nathaneast.com

12 Artists | Nathan East

Nathan East live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 on Saturday, 30. April, 20:45 h & on Wednesday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

Fourplay-Gründungsmitglied Nathan East war 16 Jahre alt, als etwas ganz Entscheidendes passierte: Plötzlich war er mit Barry White auf Tour. Als das Telefon das nächste Mal klingelte, war Quincy Jones am Apparat. Weitere Anrufe folgten und so hat Nathan in den letzten 40 Jahren mit Künstlern wie Eric Clapton, George Harrison, Michael Jackson, Phil Collins, Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, Barbra Streisand und Stevie Wonder Hits wie am Fließband produziert. Sein Genre übergreifender Bass-Groove hat ihm Anerkennung und Respekt von Kollegen aus vielen anderen Bereichen der Musik eingebracht, was nicht zuletzt seine Auftritte auf zwei Hit-Alben zeigen, die unterschiedlicher nicht sein könnten: Andrea Bocellis „Passione“ und Daft Punks „Random Access Memories“. Jahrelang haben ihn Freunde immer wieder ermutigt, endlich ein Solo-Album zu machen, aber: „Ich spürte immer, dass es vor allem für einen Bassist schwer werden würde, ein Solo-Album auf den Weg zu bringen. Ich bin es gewohnt, eher als Sideman zu unterstützen.“ Letztlich hat er sich, gemeinsam mit einem wahren Who-is-Who an Musikerkollegen und Sängern, doch an diese Studio-Erfahrung gewagt.

Entstanden ist eine CD, die – typisch Nathan – ihren besonderen Reiz dadurch erhält, dass er seinen Freunden und Musikkollegen Raum zum Strahlen lässt. „Sie nennen es ein Solo-Album – ich betrachte es als eine Platte von uns allen.“ Die „Platte von uns allen“ beinhaltet auch ein Duett mit seinem 13 Jahre alten Sohn Noah am Klavier.

Miembro fundador der Fourplay, Nathan East tenía 16 años cuando le pasó algo muy decisivo: De pronto se encontró de gira con Barry White. Cuando sonó el teléfono la próxima vez, Quincy Jones estaba al aparato. Siguieron más llamadas y así Nathan, en los últimos 40 años, ha producido éxitos en cadena con artistas como Eric Clapton, George Harrison, Michael Jackson, Phil Collins, Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, Barbra Streisand y Stevie Wonder. Su groove en el bajo, que desborda el género, le ha traído el reconocimiento y el respeto de colegas de muchos diferentes campos de la música lo que se demuestra especialmente en su participación en dos exitosos álbumes, que no podrían ser más diferentes el uno del otro: „Passione“ de Andrea Bocelli y „Random Access Memories“ de Daft Punk.

Durante años sus amigos le quisieron animar repetidas veces a grabar por fin un álbum propio, pero: „Siempre sentía que, sobre todo para un bajo, resultaba muy difícil lanzar un álbum de solista. Estoy acostumbrado trabajar como un sideman.” Por fin sí se atrevió a esta experiencia en el estudio en compañía de un verdadero who-is-who de colegas de la música y cantantes. Ha nacido un disco compacto que adquiere su encanto especial por el hecho de que deja brillar a sus amigos y colegas „Lo denominan un álbum de solista – para mi es un disco de todos nosotros.“ Este disco también contiene un duo con su hijo de 13 años en el piano.

A founding member of Fourplay, East was 16 years old when he got his first break and found himself on the road with Barry White. The next time the phone rang, Quincy Jones was on the line. The calls kept coming and for the last forty years, East has been churning out hit songs with artists like Eric Clapton, George Harrison, Michael Jackson, Phil Collins, Whitney Houston, Beyoncé, Barbra Streisand and Stevie Wonder. His genre-crossing bass-groove has earned him the recognition and the boundary-busting respect of his peers, illustrated by his current appearances on two hit records as diverse as Andrea Bocelli’s “Passione” and Daft Punk’s “Random Access Memories”. For years, friends had encouraged him to release a solo album, but: “I always felt, especially as a bassist, that a solo album was a very difficult thing to try to come up with. I’m used to a more supportive role playing as a sideman.” In the end, joined by a veritable who’s who of fellow musicians and vocalists, East immersed himself in the studio experience. In the spirit of Nathan, the CD is energized with relentless generosity as he leads – and cedes – the way for his friends and fellow musicians to shine.

“They’re calling it a solo album – I consider it everybody’s record.” This “everybody’s record” also includes a duet with his 13-year old son Noah on piano.

Joey Sommerville Known for his showmanship Featured soloist on the Cirque du Soleil‘s Grammy nominated & Juno Award winning album, Alegria DISCOGRAPHY Overnight Sensation (2014) The Get Down Club (2011) Like You Mean It (2007) Ride To This (2002) Shine (1994) www.joeysommerville.com

Image: Joey Sommerville

FACTS

Trumpeter and multi-instrumentalist Joey Sommerville’s musical essence lies in the Baptist church.

“When I was a teenager, I would judge the caliber of my playing by the number of people in the congregation who ‘got happy’”, says he and is still convinced: “If you aren’t touching the listener’s soul, then you aren’t really playing music. Soul communication is the key.” Today, Joey delivers his unique style of new millennium jazz, with funk, gospel and bop influences with infectious pop sensibilities. It’s this, coupled with his humor, warmth and showmanship, that drives the crowd crazy, creating a huge almost “cult-like” following of fans.

His latest album, the ironically titled „Overnight Sensation“, has received excellent reviews including a ringing endorsement from USA Today. The album continues to ride the top of the jazz radio charts. It features Joey along with notable guests, Jeff Lorber, Jeff Bradshaw, Elan Trotman and jazz guitar icon, Earl Klugh.

Joey Sommerville live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 on Saturday, 30. April, 22:15 h & on Wednesday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

Die musikalische Essenz von Trompeter und Multi-Instrumentalist Joey Sommerville liegt in der Baptistenkirche. „Als ich ein Teenager war, beurteilte ich die Qualität meines Spiels danach, wie viele Menschen in der Gemeinde daran Freude hatten“, sagt er. Seither sind ein paar Tage ins Land gezogen, aber auch heute noch steht für ihn fest: „Wenn du die Seele deines Zuhörers nicht berühren kannst, dann machst du nicht wirklich Musik. Die Seele zu berühren, ist der Schlüssel.“ Heute mischt Joey seinen einzigartigen Stil aus Millennium Jazz, Funk, Gospel und Bop mit ansteckenden PopEinflüssen und genau das – gepaart mit seinem Humor, seiner Herzlichkeit und seinem Bühnentalent – macht sein Publikum verrückt und brachte ihm eine euphorisch folgende Fangemeinde ein. Sein letztes Album, das er ironisch „Overnight Sensation“ genannt hat, erntete sehr gute Kritiken – auch in der USA Today – und schaffte es immer wieder an die Spitze der Jazz Radio Charts. Auf dem Album sind neben Joey namhafte Gäste wie Jeff Lorber, Jeff Bradshaw, Elan Trotman und Jazz-Gitarren-Legende Earl Klugh zu hören.

La esencia musical del trompetista y multiinstrumentalista Joey Sommerville yace en la iglesia baptista. El dice „cuando era un joven valoré la calidad de mi actuación según el número de personas de mi comunidad que la gozaran.” Desde entonces han pasado varios años pero todavía hoy está seguro: „Si tu no sabes tocar el alma de tu oyente, tu no haces realmente música. El tocar el alma, esa es la clave.” Hoy en día mezcla y crea Joey su estilo único con millenium jazz, funk, gospel y bop, con influencias contagiosas de la música pop, y es exáctamente eso – emparejado a su humor, su cariño y su talento en el escenario – lo que vuelve loco a su público y lo que le ha traído una comunidad de fieles y eufóricos seguidores. Su último álbum, llamado irónicamente „Overnight Sensation”, gozó de muy buenas críticas – también en la USA Today – y repetidas veces logró encabezar las listas radiofónicas del jazz. En este álbum se escucha, además de a Joey, a invitados de renombre como Jeff Lorber, Jeff Bradshaw, Elan Trotman y la leyenda de la guitarra jazz, Earl Klugh.

Joey Sommerville | Artists 13

Image: Mark Mediana 2010

Paul Taylor Paul Taylor „llegó al saxófono” a los siete años.

Estudió en la Universidad de Nevada y aprobó como „Music Performance Major“. Nacido en Denver, y a pesar de haber trabajado y vivido sobre todo en Las Vegas después de terminar su carrera universitaria, la poca distancia entre su tierra elegida y Los Angeles le permitió colaborar con muchos productores y artistas del R&B y del contemporary jazz. Apareció en el escenario con artistas como Jeff Lorber y The Rippingtons, y con Keiko Matsui estuvo de gira y en el estudio durante dos años. Más tarde fungió como parte de dos grandes giras de verano: „Gentlemen of the Night” (con M. Meadows y W. Hill) y „Sax and the City“ (con Meadows y V. Ingala). Por sus actuaciones carismáticas se encuentra Taylor entre los mejores y más populares artistas del género. Su disco compacto „Ladies Choice“ alcanzó el primer lugar en los Billboard contemporary jazz charts. „Burnin”, la obra titular de su álbum del 2009, „Push To Start“ de „Prime Time“ y „Supernova“ de „Tenacity“ conquistaron el pole en los smooth jazz songs charts. Además cada uno de los álbumes como tal alcanzó los top10 de los Billboard jazz album charts.

Paul Taylor ist mit sieben Jahren „auf das Saxophon“ gekommen. Er besuchte die Universität von Nevada und schloss als „Music Performance Major“ ab. Obwohl der in Denver Geborene nach seinem Abschluss vor allem in Las Vegas gelebt und gearbeitet hat, konnte er dank der Nähe seiner Wahlheimat zu Los Angeles mit vielen Produzenten und Künstlern aus dem R&B- und Contemporary-Jazz-Genre zusammenarbeiten.

Er stand auf der Bühne mit Künstlern wie Jeff Lorber und The Rippingtons und war mit Keiko Matsui zwei Jahre lang auf Tour und im Studio unterwegs. Später war er Teil von zwei großen Sommer-Touren: „Gentlemen of the Night” (mit Marion Meadows und Warren Hill) und „Sax and the City“ (mit Meadows und Vincent Ingala). Taylor zählt mit seinen charismatischen Auftritten zu den Beliebtesten und Besten des Genres. Seine CD „Ladies Choice“ erreichte die #1 der Billboard Contemporary Jazz-Charts, „Burnin”, der Titelsong seines 2009er Albums, „Push To Start“ von „Prime Time“ und „Supernova“ aus „Tenacity“ eroberten die Pole-Position in den Smooth Jazz Songs Charts. Zudem landete auch jedes Album selbst in den Top10 der Billboard Jazz Album Charts.

14 Artists | Paul Taylor

Paul Taylor took up the saxophone at the age of seven.

Though the Denver native has lived and worked primarily in Las Vegas since graduating as a music performance major from University of Nevada, the proximity of his adopted hometown to Los Angeles gave him many opportunities to vibe with R&B and contemporary jazz producers and artists. He shared stage with artists like Jeff Lorber and The Rippingtons, just to name a few, and has toured and recorded with Keiko Matsui for two years.

Later he was also part of two big summer tours: Gentlemen of the Night (with Marion Meadows and Warren Hill) and Sax and the City (with Meadows and Vincent Ingala). Paul has become one of the genre’s most popular live attractions delivering charismatic performances as a solo artist. His CD “Ladies’ Choice” marked his first ever #1 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz. “Burnin’”, the title track from his 2009 album, “Push To Start” from “Prime Time” and “Supernova” from “Tenacity” hit the pole position on the Smooth Jazz Songs chart. The albums itself reached the Top Ten on the Billboard Jazz Albums chart.

Paul Taylor live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 on Sunday, 1. May, 11:00 h & on Wednesday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

FACTS 3 No.1 hits & 9 Top10 albums at the Billboard jazz charts Known for his mix of funk & sensuality DISCOGRAPHY Tenacity (2014) Prime Time (2011) Burnin‘ (2009) Ladies‘ Choice (2007) Nightlife (2005) Steppin‘ Out (2003) Hypnotic (2001) Undercover (2000) Pleasure Seeker (1997) On The Horn (1995) www.paultaylorsax.com

FACTS 3 No.1 hits at the Billboard jazz chart Smooth Jazz Song of the Year 2005 & 2011 DISCOGRAPHY Alley Cat (2015) Jazz Gems, Best Of Nils (2014) City Groove (2012) What The Funk? (2010) Up Close & Personal (2009) Ready To Play (2007) Pacific Coast Highway (2005) Blue Planet (1998) www.nilsmusic.com

Nils Der in Deutschland geborene Gitarrist, Produzent und Songwriter Nils lebt seit Mitte der 80er Jahre in Südkalifornien. Er besuchte das Musiker-Institut in Hollywood und begann danach als Toningenieur in einem Aufnahmestudio. Sein erstes Album „Blue Planet” erschien 1998 und fand großen Anklang. Nach einigen Kompositionen für Film und Fernsehen arbeitete Nils u.a. mit George Benson, Paul Brown, The Temptations, Rick Braun, Paul Jackson Jr. und Gerald Albright zusammen. 2005 kehrte er mit dem Album „Pacific Coast Highway” zu seiner Solo-Karriere zurück. Die gleichnamige Hit-Single war für mehr als sieben Wochen auf Platz 1 der Radio- und VerkaufsCharts und wurde später zum meistgespielten Smooth Jazz-Song des Jahrzehnts (2001-2010) im US Radio. Nach zwei weiteren Alben wurde er für die American Smooth Jazz Awards als „Best Guitarist” nominiert. Die Single „Jump Start” aus seinem Album „What The Funk?” (2010) stand acht Wochen am Stück auf Platz 1. Seine neueste CD „Alley Cat” erschien 2015.

German born guitarist, producer and songwriter Nils has been residing in southern California since the mid-80‘s. After visiting the musician institute in Hollywood Nils started in the 80‘s as an engineer in a recording studio.

His first album “Blue Planet” was released in 1998 and received high acclaims. After composing for movie and TV Nils had the chance to work with George Benson, Paul Brown, The Temptations, Rick Braun, Paul Jackson Jr., and Gerald Albright among others. He returned to his solo career in 2005 with the album “Pacific Coast Highway”. The hit single of the same name was staying at #1 on the Radio & Records airplay charts and was later named the most played Smooth Jazz track on US Radio of the decade (20012010). After two more albums, he got nominated “Best Guitarist” at the American Smooth Jazz Awards. “Jump Start”, the first single from his album “What The Funk?” (2010), hit eight weeks in a role #1 of the Billboard Jazz Song Charts. His latest CD “Alley Cat” was released in 2015.

Image: Nils Jiptner

Nils live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 on Sunday, 1.May, 12:30 h & on Wednesday, 27. April, 21:00 h (Allstar show)

Nacido en Alemania, el guitarrista, productor y compositor de temas, Nils, vive desde mediados de los 80 en California del Sur. Estudió en el Instituto para Músicos en Hollywood y seguidamente trabajó como ingeniero de sonido en un estudio de grabación. Su primer álbum, „Blue Planet”, que apareció en 1998, halló gran resonancia. Después de algunas composiciones para el cine y para la televisión Nils colabora, entre otros, con George Benson, Paul Brown, The Temptations, Rick Braun, Paul Jackson Jr. y Gerald Albright. En el 2005, con el álbum „Pacific Coast Highway”, regresa a su trayectoria de solista. El exitoso sencillo del mismo nombre ocupó por más de siete semanas el primer lugar del ranking de la radio y de las listas de ventas, convirtiéndose en la smooth jazz song más tocado en la radio estadounidense durante una década (2001-2010). Después de dos álbumes más obtuvo la denominación de „Best Guitarist” en los American Smooth Jazz Awards.

El sencillo „Jump Start” de su álbum „What The Funk?” (2010) ocupó durante ocho semanas consecutivas el primer lugar. Su disco compacto más reciente, „Alley Cat”, aparece en el 2015.

Nils | Artists 15

Image: Tim Welvaars

Team Harmony

FACTS

Image: Naomi Adriaansz

Tim Welvaars & Naomi Adriaansz Tim released 28 solo albums & recorded with Stevie Wonder, Toots Thielemans, Lee Ritenour, etc.

Naomi shared the stage with Candy Dulfer, Leroy Jones, etc.

Team Harmony live at Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 on Wednesday, 27. April, 10:00 h (Bodega-Tour) & 21:00 h (Allstar show)

16 Artists | Team Harmony

DISCOGRAPHY Two Souls, One Breath (2016) Introducing Team Harmony (2015) www.teamharmony.nl

Festival Partner 17

Festival Musicians Gร NTER ASBECK | Bass www.guenterasbeck.de

LUTZ DETERRA Keyboards www.deterra.de

MARTIN FESKE | Guitar www.facebook.com/martin.feske

18 Musicians | Festival Musicians

All images: Christian Nordstrรถm

HEIKO BRAUN | Drums www.heikobraundrums.com

WESTLEY JOSEPH | Drums www.facebook.com/westley.joseph

ANDREW TOLMAN | Bass www.facebook.com/andy.tolman.1

ANDREW NOBLE Keyboards www.andrewnoble.org

Festival Musicians | Musicians 19

Images: Westley Joseph, Mark Jaimes, Andrew Tolman, Andrew Noble

MARK JAIMES | Guitar www.facebook.com/mark.jaimes.37

20 Location | Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa

Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa | Location 21

Kirk Whalum

Review: 4th annual Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2015

A big family meeting Review by Peter Böhi of smoothjazzvibes.com

The 4th annual Smooth Jazz Festival Mallorca took place like usual at the 5 star luxury resort Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa in Sa Coma, on the east coast of the Spanish island Mallorca. This hotel provides the perfect setting for the festival, not only for the live music events, but also for meeting friends and chilling in the various areas of the vast complex. People from all across Europe and the US gathered here to listen to their favorite artists and have some fun. In addition, it is easy to meet your favorite artists since they stay at the same hotel and mingle with their fans, they usually have their spouses and other family members with them, making this a special event for them, too.

The festival was kicked off by Swedish keyboardist Jonathan Fritzén, who hails from Stockholm and was born to an American father and a Swedish mother.

He has a successful smooth jazz career going on and belongs to the newest generation of smooth jazz players, his playing is a cross between Brian Culbertson and Jim Brickman with beautiful

22 Smooth Lifestyle | Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2015

melodies and smooth grooves. This year’s band consisted of the tried and tested Lutz Deterra on keyboards, Martin Feske on guitar and Günter Asbeck on bass, plus Marcus Finnie on drums, who is a member of Kirk Whalum’s band and took over the chore of playing drums during the whole festival, he made the band sound especially good. Jonathan Fritzén played several songs from his current release Fritzenized, like “Fingers On Fire”, plus several others from his catalog, like “Sweet Spot” from his Magical release, with special guest Paul Brown on guitar appearing on stage, a solo piano version of “Nordic Night”, the introspective “Midnight Secrets”, plus “To The Top” and “Celebration”, both featuring saxophonist Vincent Ingala, who is his global touring partner, among others.

For the song “Dance With Me”, he strapped on his keytar and played a lengthy solo strolling into the audience to the delight of his fans. His show was well received and opened the festival just the right way.

Next was saxophonist Euge Groove who did a powerful, funky

his guitar part. Later he invited saxophonist Vincent Ingala to the proceedings, providing some soulful playing, this young artist amazes me each time he plays, he sounds like a seasoned player with his perfect technique and emotional expression. Another highlight was his rendition of the Bill Withers classic “Ain’t No Sunshine” with Jonathan Fritzén on keyboards, both players poured all their heart into the performance.

Paul Brown veered off into blues territory playing “Hurricane” from his Brothers Brown project, a blues band he has on the side with the keyboardist Paul Brown from Nashville. They concluded the show with the groovy “24/7” with two additional horn players from the local band Saxophobia, each

Friday morning, we made a little trip to a nearby market at the small village Son Servera, we drove there with two shuttle buses. After a bit of shopping and checking out the place, we went to an old church named “Església Nova” that never was finished, only the walls were standing, providing a great setting for an open air concert by singer Melina. The sky was blue and there was nice breeze going during the show. Melina hails from San Antonio, Texas and just finished her first album Wishing On Love that was produced by Paul Brown. She kicked off her show with “Killing Me Softly With His Song” before Paul Brown on guitar joined the stage. They did a number of tracks from that album, starting with “Stay With Me Tonight”, followed by Luther’s “Superstar”, her own “Maybe Not Today”, Mary J. Blige’s “I’m Going Down”, Etta James’ “At Last” in a funked up version and the heavy grooving “It’s Love”, with lots of nice solos by Paul Brown. Melina is a great singer with a strong voice and impeccable intonation, who is a joy to listen to. She finished her show with the Jacksons classic “Shake Your Body (Down to the Ground)” with guest Vincent Ingala on saxophone, giving every member of the band some solo space, this song had people dance in the aisles. They came back for an encore, doing “Let’s Stay Together”, bringing a great show to an end.

After the intermission, saxophonist Kirk Whalum appeared, he had with him his original band members Marcus Finnie on drums and John Stoddart on keys, plus Günter Asbeck on bass and Martin Feske on guitar. He started his set with drummer Marcus Finnie’s composition “Fish And Spaghetti” from the drummer’s Boundless album, before he played material from his own catalog, like “Do You Feel Me”, bringing a southern feeling to the show, “Cain’t Stay Blue” from his current Gospel According To Jazz Chapter IV project and his rendition of Maxwell’s “Ascension”, that has become a staple of his show. He slowed things down with a heartfelt acappella version of Whitney Houston’s “I Will Always Love You” wandering around in the audience while doing this song.

John Stoddart got his slot as well, before they raised the heat again with the great Stevie Wonder composition “All I Do”, another song that has become a firm part of his shows. This was another solid set by this consummate and spirited artist.

Friday night, the festival continued with guitarist Paul Brown doing his own thing. He was supported by the house band (Martin Feske on guitar, Lutz Deterra on keys, Günter Asbeck on bass and Marcus Finnie on drums) who as always did a great job. He kicked off his show with Grover’s “Winelight”, followed by the cool “Brother Earl”, bringing things nicely up to speed. He slowed it down a bit with his cool cover of Mark/ Almond’s “The City”, before the pace picked up again with “The Funky Joint”, a track named after his studio. Then he invited singer Melina, his latest protégée, to the stage to do “Love And Trust” with him, before he delved deeper into his catalog with songs like , “Sugarfish” and “Foreign Exchange”, the title track from his collaboration album with Marc Antoine, with Martin Feske doing an excellent job taking care of

Saturday evening, singer and keyboardist John Stoddart, who is a regular member of Kirk Whalum’s band, got his own slot at the festival. He appeared with Marcus Finnie on drums, Günter Asbeck on bass and Martin Feske on guitar, performing songs from his own catalog.

He started his show with the appropriate “Lovely Day”, a classic penned

by Bill Withers, with some audience singalong, followed by “Things Are Gonna Get Easier”. He slowed things down with “I Still Believe”, written on his 2nd wedding anniversary, when things weren’t going so easily, and “A Promise Is A Promise”, reaffirming his wedding vows. Staying in this mould, he did “You Are So Beautiful” that segued into “Send Me An Angel” with a great guest performance by Kirk Whalum who did a nice soprano solo. A highlight of the show was his cool and sexy “Tender

one doing a hot sax solo, before they returned for an encore, having all players on the stage, doing a great cover of “Ain’t No Stopping Us Now”, having people get off their seats.

Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2015 | Smooth Lifestyle 23

Images P. 22: Christian Nordström Images P.23: Peter Böhi

show featuring his gutsy saxophone playing, supported by the house band. He opened his show with “House Of Groove” which segued into “Faithful Central”, after that he did several songs from his current Got 2 Be Groovin’ album, like “Rain Down On Me”, “Homie Gown” with special guest Paul Brown on guitar, plus several tracks from his catalog like “Living Large” and “Slam Dunk” from his debut album, having people groove in their seats. He did his usual booty dance contest and gave a vinyl copy of his current album away to the best dancer. A nice track was the laid back “Just My Imagination”, that was just beautifully played, plus an acappella version of “Amazing Grace”. At the end of the show, he got really funky with “From The TOP” (his reference to Tower of Power) where he invited Vincent Ingala to the stage, who took no prisoners as well. This was an awesome show by one of the best sax players on the scene.

Then rising star Vincent Ingala did his show. This young player is a very talented musician, has a lot of stage personality and knows how to work a crowd. He was supported by the house band (Finnie, Deterra, Feske and Asbeck), he went right into it with an energetic saxophone track that put us right in the mood, followed by his rendition of “If I Can Fly”. For the next track, he picked up the guitar and invited guest Paul Brown on guitar, to play a smashing version of People Choice’s “Do It Any Way You Wanna” with him, bringing the house down. As Vincent Ingala let us know his father was a DJ, and by going trough his well selected record collection, he discovered many gems from this classic era, turning him in a big lover of the Philly catalog, Motown and more, shaping his musical taste. Next was “Vintage Vibe” from his debut album, before he did the Moments classic “Look At Me, I’m In Love”, a song that just begged for a saxophone cover when he heard it the first time. One more great guitar track followed, showing his prowess on this instrument too, before he did his heartfelt version of Carlos Santana’s “Europe” on sax, a song that gave guitarist Martin Feske ample opportunities to add some great playing, making this a highlight of the show. He finished his show with Jr. Walker’s “What Does It Take To Win Your Love” and returned for an encore, playing M.F.S.B.’s “K-Jee” from the Saturday Night Fever soundtrack, showing his great taste and knowledge of music. This was one of the best shows of the whole festival for me.

Sunday morning, Four80East appeared, the band hails from Toronto, Canada and is fronted by keyboardist Rob DeBoer and percussionist Tony Grace. They were accompanied by Marcus Finnie on drums, Günter Asbeck on bass, Martin Feske on guitar, plus local saxophonist Miguel Ramon. The groove went like a red thread through the show, having our heads bopping throughout, with tracks like “Sandbar”, “Montreux”, “En Route”, “Waterline”, “Noodle Soup” and more, especially fun was the track “Eastside” with the audience singing the vocal parts. Each player added some nice solos, especially Miguel Ramon on sax and Martin Feske on guitar were frequently adding their voices to the proceedings, while the two leaders impressed on keys and percussion, making this another entertaining concert.

24 Smooth Lifestyle | Review Mallorca Smooth Jazz Festival 2015

The last performer of the festival was guitarist Chuck Loeb, who just flew in from NY the day before, he was in fine form and ready to play.

With his wife being from Spain, he had personal relationship with this country and even addressed the audience in Spanish. He was accompanied by the house band (Finnie, Asbeck and Deterra), the first song played was “Silver Lining” from his latest release Silhouette, a song that would also be a perfect choice for Fourplay, the all-star band he also plays with. Next was one of his biggest smooth jazz hits, the awesome “The Music Inside”, where he pulled all the stops, before he got a lot jazzier with “Appreciation”. After having appreciated his love for James Taylor, he did his rendition of “Don’t Let Me Be Lonely Tonight” that went down very well, before he did the Joe Zawinul composition “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy”, made famous by Cannonball Adderley, with guest Paul Brown on guitar, which was another memorable performance. Then he played “Lucas”, dedicated to his daughters, that had an introspective intro, before the song built to a great climax. This song marked the end of his set, he returned for one encore together with Paul Brown, doing a Blues shuffle trading licks between guitars, plus some spirited solos by all members of the band. This great show was well received and marked the end of the festival.

This was another exciting and memorable Smooth Jazz Festival Mallorca that provided many great musical moments, meeting artists and being among your fellow music aficionados from all across the world, making us a big smooth jazz family. Mark your calendar for next year’s 5th edition which takes place April 28 - May 1, 2016.

Coming soon:

MALLORCA SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL 2017 Dates will be released at the festival 2016 Protur Biomar Gran Hotel & Spa Mallorca, Spain Hotel Package sale starts in winter 2016.

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

www.mallorca.smoothjazzfestival.de www.smoothjazzeurope.eu www.facebook.com/smoothjazzeurope

Images middle left & top right: Christian Nordström Images top left & middle right: Peter Böhi

Hearted Lover” with a walk into the audience serenading the women, until his wife who was in the audience jokingly interfered, we all had a lot of fun. As a special treat, he performed a yet unrecorded song just accompanied by Martin Feske on guitar, before the pace picked up again with “More Than You And Me”, bringing a satisfying and entertaining show to an end.

Festival Partner 25

Review: Smooth Jazz Festival Augsburg 2015

The best way to celebrate the end of 2015 & ring in the New Year!!!

Photo review by Christian Nordström of smoothjazzphoto.com

Selina Albright

Nick Colionne

Jeff Lorber

New Year‘s Eve

26 Smooth Lifestyle | Review Smooth Jazz Festival Augsburg 2015

Coming soon:

SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL AUGSBURG 2016 29. December 2016 - 1. January 2017 Park Theater at the Kurhaus Gรถggingen Augsburg, Germany Hotel Package sale starts on September 1, 2016.

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

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

Peter White

Michael Lington & Paul Shilts Weimar

Everette Harp Jackiem Joyner

130-year-old Park Theater

Review Smooth Jazz Festival Augsburg 2015 | Smooth Lifestyle 27

Coming soon:

ALGARVE SMOOTH JAZZ FESTIVAL 2016 29. September – 2. October 2016 VILA VITA PARC Resort & Spa Porches, Algarve, Portugal Hotel package sale starts in April 1, 2016.

Reservation e-mail: shop@smooth-entertainment.de

www.algarve.smoothjazzfestival.de www.smoothjazzeurope.eu www.facebook.com/smoothjazzeurope

World premiere: Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2016

Smooth Jazz goes Portugal Olá Smooth Jazz-Lovers all over the world, The long wait is finally over – the secret of the “New” in the alliance of our festivals is out: With our third annual event, we take you to the southern end of Europe, directly to the Portuguese Atlantic coast – more specifically to the spectacular rock formations of the Algarve. At the end of September, we are going to open the gates of a small paradise for festival guests from all over the world: The exclusive 5-star hideaway Vila Vita Parc extends on a 22-hectare, subtropical park, which sits directly on the seaside cliffs.

28 Smooth Lifestyle | Preview Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2016

The member of the “Leading Hotels of the World” is located in Porches, about half an hour drive away from Faro International Airport, and has much to offer – among others 170 rooms, suites and villas, which are housed in various Moorish style buildings. In addition, it has nine restaurants – one of them has been awarded with two Michelin stars – seven bars, a café and an underground vaulted wine cellar, where Vila Vita Parc proffers amongst others its house wine. As well as for example the olive oil they serve in the hotel it is grown on the Vila-Vita-Estate “Herdade dos Grous”. As a part of our additional festival program we are going to visit that 730 hectare property, located about an hour away from the resort, in a day trip – wine tasting included, of course.

All images: Vila Vita Parc

The rest of the additional program is still top secret – just like the festival line-up. But we can promise you definitely: The program will be wonderfully varied again and the selection of artists again top notch. Look forward with us and the Vila Vita Parc team to having a glorious time in a heavenly place full of frank hospitality. And be assured: To all those who are looking for more than additional program and concerts Vila Vita Parc offers a wide variety of options to pass their time, relax, to do sports etc. Anyone who wants to find out more, should take a close look at our website – anyone who wants to experience it first hand, should book a ticket. Hotel package sale starts on the 1st of April.

We are looking forward to having a great time, Sandra & Christian

Preview Algarve Smooth Jazz Festival 2016 | Smooth Lifestyle 29

Hans-Bernd Hülsmann presents:

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)

CHRIS STANDRING – Ten His music style is unique and has a high recognition value. Guitarist Chris Standring is one of the rare guitarists, who invent himself again and again. Thus, each of his albums has the charm of discovery. So it is with his latest album that’s aptly called “Ten”. While he focused on his previous album on songwriting, composition and arranging, he allows himself on the new one to improvise and just really play what he defines as jazz guitar performance. “Ready Steady Flow” starts the album with a memorable hooking groove, which unmistakably sets this guitarist on the forefront of the smooth jazz genre. He combines a catchy rhythm with classy talk box and his resounding Benedetto Bambino archtop guitar. Don’t miss the remarkable video of this song featuring model Shasta Wonder. Snake Oil opts on the contrast between casual guitar sound and staccato snare drum. Guitarist Chris Standring has found his style and “Ten” is an enduring follow up to his previous albums. Don’t try to define the musical category, just enjoy the album.

PHIL DENNY – Upswing Phil Denny had a blazing start in 2012 with his first solo album “Crossover”. With several chart toppers he quickly reached a high level of awareness. Just one year later followed his second album, “The Messenger”. This Christmas album received high accolades.

His third album “Upswing” offers with Radio Flyer, a bonus track that connects seamlessly to his second album within the meaning of continuity. This includes the selection of his team-mates, which we already know from his previous releases. “Diggin’ On” hypnotizes with a catchy melody and a vocal refrain perfectly topped off with Nate’s atmospheric keyboard playing. “Soak It Up” is loaded with strong brass instrumentation by Keith Newton (sax), and trumpet players Jon Barnes and Farnell Newton supporting saxophonist Denny. With a series of quick delicate movements up and down Phil celebrates “Flutter” on soprano sax. With “Upswing” Phil Denny delivers a special elixir. A fresh note which sets him apart from other saxophonists of his generation.

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KOOL&KLEAN – Volume VI Shuffle the music of Paul Hardcastle’s “The Jazzmasters” and Kim Waters’ “Streetwize” series and you get the sound of Kool&Klean.

Creator of these popular series is saxophonist Konstantin Klashtorni. His newest project of Kool&Klean is “Volume VI”. Attracting the audience one finds on all covers gorgeous models as a visual link and trademarks. Konstantin has written, performed and produced all tracks. The album has an atmospheric start with “Worth”.

Fine voluminous keyboard sounds melt softly with Konstantin’s tenor sax. The melody is fairly shared between both instrumental groups.

On “Flawless” he changes between various keyboard sounds like electronic guitar, trumpet and more. Waves and hall are strong elements of style and give the whole a spatial structure. “Kool&Klean Volume VI” leaves a pleasant feeling of relaxation. Konstantin Klashtorni has developed like Paul Hardcastle a signature sound and the number of these recordings confirms that he is on the road to success.

3RD FORCE – Global Force The group 3rd Force is part of the primary rocks of smooth jazz. In 1994 music genies William Aura, Alain Eskinasi and Craig Dobbin started with their debut album “Third Force”, now they are back with “Global Force”. A main symbol of their music is groovy rhythm in connection with esoteric world music elements. Musical guests on the new album are Lawson Rollins, Brian Hughes and a host of Nepali musicians. The album begins with a “Big Shot”. The well-known shuffle beat combines attractive sax in the lead with guitar chords and key strokes. “Breakout” finds a smooth trumpet sound backed with a zesty horn arrangement wrapped in a funky guitar rhythm. The uplifting melody energizes the listener. Signature instruments on “Carry On” are the Japanese bamboo flute Shakuhachi, the acoustic guitar of Lawson Rollins, sax and an accordion. A combination that is unmatched. After a long hiatus 3rd Force is revitalizing smooth jazz again with their very own elements. “Global Force” continues the stirring force line electrifying their audience with exotic sounds.