Albare Jan Feb 2019

INSIDE: 61st GRAMMY Nominated CD Reviews TM JAN / FEB 2019

SmoothJazz Magazine

Nancy

WILSON IN THE BACK STAGE

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37 14 Feature

37 Albare Dadon Smooth Jazz Down Under

11 Remembering 14 Nancy Wilson

Lifestyles 17 Grammy Nominated CDs Tia Fuller 22 Kurt Elling 26 Tony Bennett & Diana Krall 08 30 Raul Midรณn Jazz Notes 08 Grammys Celebrates Aretha 11 International Jazz Day 2019 Sydney, Australia

Concert

33 Sweet Honey In The Rock Back Stage

17

CD Reviews 42 Eddie Palmieri - Mi Luz Mayor 45 Gregory Porter - One Night Only 48 Nicole Banks Long - FLY 52 Will Downing - The Promise 55 Acoustic Alchemy - 33 1/3 58 Otmaro Ruiz, Jimmy Branly and Jimmy Haslip - Elemental 61 Zemill - Intimate Pleasures 63 Bob Baldwin - Presents Abbey Road and The Beatles 65 Jay King - Helen’s Son 67 Snitzer Jeff Goldblum & The Mildred Orchestra - The Capitol 70

Studio Sessions Al Turner - This Is It

CD Releases 41 Jazz Funk Soul

SmoothJazz Jazz

Smooth Jazz Magazine

Art Jackson— Publisher/CEO May / June 2015

3751 Motor Ave. Suite #34531

Doris Gee- - Research Manager/Writer

Los Angeles, CA 9 0034

Mann—Graphic Artist/Photographer

E-Mail: info@smoothjazzmag.com

Contributing Writers

Web: www.smo othjazzmag.com

Tracey Whitney Kimberly D. Holiday Keivu G. Knox Sherelle Smith Eryn K. Bozeman Ahlia Love Carl Wayne Wesley Gaille Hunter Azval Ismail Sheila E. Ross Maggi Bridgman

Albuquerque Austin Charlotte DC : Nashville Philadelphia Philadelphia Philadelphia South Africa San Diego United Kingdom

Contributing Photographers Ronda Dixon Cloe Jalipa

Los Angeles France

No part of this publication ma y be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means without written consent from the publisher.

Copyright @ 2019 by Smooth Jazz Magazine. All Rights Reserved.

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The week of January 5, 2019 Stop, Crackle, Pop Vincent Ingala Julian Vaughan

Zephyr Kayla Waters Groovers and Shakers Blake Aaron Feat. Darren Rahn Backyard Brew The JT Project feat Najee Sweet Spot Jeff Ryan

***3 Weeks at #1 ***

BOOK BY NOVEMBER 10, 2018

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ARETHA! A GRAMMY® CELEBRATION FOR THE “QUEEN OF SOUL" ON JAN. 13, 2019 08| SmoothJazz Magazine

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Hosted by Tyler Perry and performing are Yolanda Adams, Celine Dion, Shirley Caesar, Jennifer Hudson, Alicia Keys, John Legend, Patti LaBelle, Janelle MonĂĄe, Alessia Cara, Kelly Clarkson, Common and BeBe Winans among others.

The live concert will tape Sunday, Jan. 13, 2019, at 6 p.m. PT at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles.

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Jazz Notes

In October of 2017, UNESCO announced that Sydney, Australia would serve as the Global Host City for International Jazz Day 2019 .

As one of the first cities in the world to greet April 30, Sydney will officially kick off the worldwide celebration of International Jazz Day, initiating more stop concerts, reexhibitions, book tions, jam sesvice initiatives, lection programs in tries.

than 24 hours of noncitals, art and photo and poetry presentasions, community sertures and other educamore than 190 counThe centerpiece of the 2019 festivities, the AllStar Global Concert, will be presented at the Sydney Opera House, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the same time, the streets of the city will come alive through a series of performances, workshops and other activities.

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Jazz Notes Renowned multi-instrumentalist, bandleader and educator James Morrison will serve as Co-Artistic Director, along with UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador Herbie Hancock.

A full schedule of programming in Sydney and across Australia will be announced in early 2019.

In the meantime, consider following International Jazz Day on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram for more information as plans develop.

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Remembering “The Great Roy Hargrove: He is literally the one man horn section I hear in my head when I think about music,” Questlove

NANCY WILSON dies, 3 - times Grammy-winning jazz singer and 'song stylist,' dies at 81. She made her debut with her 1961's single, "Guess Who I Saw Today." Wilson is survived by her three children and five grandchildren. As per Wilson's wishes, there will be no funeral service. Instead, her family will hold a celebration of her life, most likely in February, the month of her birth.

Wilson, who retired from touring in 2011, died after a long illness at her home in Pioneertown, a California desert community near Joshua Tree National Park.

The sophisticated vocalists of the 1950s that rose to mega powerhouse pop-soul singers of the 1960s and ’70s, fondly known as a jazz stylist.

In a career that spanned over 60 decades, Nancy Wilson songs ranged from American standards, jazz ballads, Broadway show tunes, R&B and pop all masterfully 14| SmoothJazz Magazine

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Remembering told. IHer hits included a signature song, “Guess Who I Saw Today” in 1960. In 1968 “Face It Girl, It’s Over” one of her biggest Billboard chart hits on R&B and Pop. “(You Don’t Know) was her biggest hit in 1964, ‘How Glad I Am” a R&B ballad made it to No. 11 on Billboard’s pop chart. Releasing over 70 albums in five-decades her 3 Grammy Awards, one for best rhythm and blues recording for the 1964 album “How Glad I Am,” and two for best jazz vocal album, in 2005 and 2007. In 2004, she was honored as a Jazz Master by the National Endowment for the Arts.

Being one of the few African-Americans in the 60’s to host a TV show, garned an Emmy for the “Nancy Wilson Show,” that on NBC. Ms. Wilson was a lifelong advocate for civil rights, being apart of the Selma to Montgomery, AL., march in 1965, while receiving awards from the Martin Luther King Jr. Center for Nonviolent Social Change in Atlanta in 1993 and an N.A.A.C.P. Hall of Fame Image Award in 1998. In 2005, she was inducted into the International Civil Rights Walk of Fame at the Martin Luther King Jr. National Historic .

Nancy Sue Wilson was born on Feb. 20, 1937, in Chillicothe, Ohio.

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Lifestyle - Music Grammy Nominees By: Sherelle Smith From the first beat, from the first note, I did a double take at my player and went, "What???" Jazz is about pushing the tonal, chordal & rhythmic boundaries. Tia Fuller went there and beyond! Featuring Jack DeJohnette (drummer), Dave Holland (bassist), Adam Rogers (guitarist), James Genus (bassist), Bill Stewart (drummer) and Sam Yahel (pianist and Hammond organist), this is an all-star cast starring Tia Fuller with her expressive and virtuoso style of playing leading the way.

The opening track, "In The Trenches" by way of its title, let's you know what you're in for. It is by far my favorite track. What she does here is difficult, but from her opening melody, she lets you know what she's got...she stays "in the trenches" and shows out! Definitely got my attention! Even before I read her bio, "Coltrane" came immediately to mind. Daughter of musical parents, Tia grew up listening to John Coltrane, Sarah Vaughn, and Charlie Parker.

"Save Your Love For Me" is where I could hear and feel the influence of Sarah Vaughn in the way Tia plays on this one...Sultry, Romantic, Melodic with a use of crescendo and decrescendo that made me feel like she was as actually singing with the saxophone!

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Lifestyle - GRAMMY Grammy Nominees "The Coming"...all I can say is that this blew my mind! A rhythmic masterpiece! I wasn't sure if it started in "cut time" (two beats to a measure) or 3/4 time (three beats to a measure) because this song took off into another time zone and dimension!

(7/4 time? Good gracious!)

Tia keeps it all together with a soft and sultry sax. Very nice Hammond organ going on here too!

"Crowns of Grey" would make John Coltrane beam with pride! Slow and melancholy but beautiful, you think you know where the chords are going and how they're going to resolve and though the song starts out that way, it never goes where you think it's going...John Coltrane would be proud.

"Joe'n Around" actually shows up in two places, the last place as an alternate take. I love the first take because it's like a call and response or conversation between the drums and the saxophone...never heard anything like it before! I loved it! After the song gets going, the bass takes over in the conversation like, "It's my turn!". Tia's improvisation is off the charts here...you just have to hear it!

"Soul Eyes" is a Smooth saxophone melody against a backdrop of a samba or bossa nova. Very soothing.

"Tears of Santa Barbara" starts out with a beautiful bowed bass. It almost feels like the sun has just gone down in the city. I would consider this to be one of the most original and innovative songs on this album. Very progressive in a laid-back way.

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Lifestyle - Grammy Nominees

By: Andrea Canter If you love jazz and the way it's meant to explore, experiment, and push boundaries; if you love virtuoso talent and skill, then you are going to love Tia Fuller's latest triumph, "Diamond Cut" Buy this CD to experience an amazing journey into time, sound, and space...Tia has the skill to take you along for the ride and bring you safely home again.

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CD Review Lifestyle - Grammy Nominees By: Maggi Bridgman Kurt Elling's rich baritone voice has achieved acclaim in that his latest CD, released on December 7th, has been nominated for a Grammy! Congratulations, Kurt!

Recorded at a small venue in London, the Questions LIVE album, being a live recording, does have a few rough edges. It is very succinct in that there are 9 tracks on it but only 5 of them are Kurt's musical offering. The other 4 are introductions.

Having said that this, the album forms a meditation on the political, existential, spiritual and global questions which touch as all and which are of particular concern to Mr. Elling. There is a relevant quote by Rainer Maria Rilke - 'Be patient to all that is unsolved in your heart and try to love the questions themselves - like locked rooms and like books that are written in a very foreign tongue...Live the questions now. And perhaps you will then gradually, without noticing it, live along some distant day into the answer.'

Kurt's fellow musicians are Clark Sommers on bass, John McClean on guitar, Adonis Rose on drums and Jim Watson on keyboard.

Track 1 Begins with Kurt singing a cappella and it's the socially conscious Bob Dylan number, 'A Hard Rain's Gonna Fall." I must say it took me by surprise to 22| SmoothJazz Magazine

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CD Review Lifestyle - Grammy Nominees hear the old protest song given a jazz treatment, but it brings it into a contemporary world, necessarily, because we still suffer from the same problems today as we did when Dylan wrote it.

After one and a half minutes, the keyboard and drums come in and the beat segues into a regular one. Kurt uses vocal gymnastics to add drama to the song. It gradually winds down towards the end so that we are left with stark piano and percussion until the very last when Kurt's voice returns repeating 'It's a hard...' like a mantra.

Track 2 'A Happy Thought' introduction is spoken with humour and political commentary.

Track 3 'A Happy Thought'. The lyrics are from a poem by Franz Wright and Kurt's voice is mellow, his diction good. Kurt sings about his lack of fear about death, it being akin to birth from which he has recovered unscathed. There is a piano solo at about half way through the track which adds a certain brightness and elan. Kurt holds a phenomenally elongated note at the end. Wow! Track 4 iI another spoken introduction, this time to track 5, 'I Have Dreamed'.

Track 5 An updated, syncopated version of the romantic ballad made famous by Frank Sinatra, 'I Have Dreamed'. It features guitarist John McClean's warm arrangement and is relaxed and satisfying. Jim Watson treats us to a keyboard solo at the centre of the piece and the song fades out on a good extended note.

Track 6 Consists of verbal musings associated with track 7.

Track 7 Kurt renders 'Everyday You're Away,' a mournful love song to a lady he needs to hold on to. The music is by Ben Webster and lyrics by Kurt Elling. There is a strong beat and great jazz phrasing. Kurt is accompanied by keyboard and percussion and at the halfway point features a keyboard solo by Jim Watson, backed Let the music take you‌ SmoothJazz Magazine | 23

CD Review Lifestyle - Grammy Nominees The music is by Ben Webster and lyrics by Kurt Elling. There is a strong beat and great jazz phrasing. Kurt is accompanied by keyboard and percussion and at the halfway point features a keyboard solo by Jim Watson, backed minimally by Adonis Rose on drums. Kurt's voice returns with some scat and then speech which is musing on the theme of keeping your lady sweet by treating her well.

Track 8 Intro to 'Endless Lawns'.

Track 9 'Endless Lawns'. This is a fairly long track, extending over ten and a half minutes, from a poem by Sara Teasdale with Carla Bley's music and Kurt's lyrics.

The theme is the mutability of human life in contrast with the timeless wonder of the stars. The song is quiet and subtle with a thought provoking feel to it. A lone trumpet, played by Marquis Hill sidles in and adds wistful colour. The track ends with a positive vibe, flying beyond the stars in love and light.

Kurt has declared that maybe listeners will have to draw these songs together for themselves, or maybe the songs could stand on their own as 'caverns of exploration'. He also said that there are a couple of political tracks in which he confesses to a struggle to provide an answer but he felt that they had worth in being 'merely an annunciation of pain'.

So I leave it to the listener to glean what they will from this album of personal statement and universal experience. It is a fine testament to Kurt Elling's talent.

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Lifestyle - Grammy Nominees By: Tracey Whitney

There’s something to be said for recording songs you’ve performed a thousand times. The ease and comfort of the performance is flawless, and Tony Bennett (a Grammy winning, NEA Jazz Master and Kennedy Center Honoree) and Diana Krall (Grammy, Juno and even Soul Train Lady of Soul Award winner), bring to this collection of tunes penned by George and Ira Gershwin, the standard-bearers of jazz lyricists/ composers, a So. Very. Perfect. Listen.

Maybe I should have prefaced this review by admitting they both happen to be among my favorite vocalists on the planet? Well, I confess… But I’m not the only person who gets it. The album hit No. 1 on the Billboard Top Jazz Album charts.

(Fun fact: after charting more than 45 times, jazz icon Bennett made history in 2011 when he was the oldest act to ever make it to No. 1 on the Billboard 200 charts with his album Duets II. He did it again when his collaboration with Lady Gaga, Cheek to Cheek (2014) debuted at No. 1.

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CD Review Lifestyle - Grammy Nominees You know all twelve songs, which include I’ve Got A Crush On You, My One And Only, Nice Work If You Can Get It, and Fascinating Rhythm (which Bennett first recorded nearly 70 years ago under the stage name Joe Bari, is perfectly paired with Krall’s equally celebrated rhythmic abilities).

Here you have them performed by two of the greatest interpreters of jazz vocals today. I was very happy to hear the standard Somebody Loves Me, which I’ve always loved for its lush inclusion of minor keys.

There are also two solos in the collection, Krall’s melancholy and emotive rendition of But Not For Me, and Bennett’s swinging Who Cares? (Please note that Krall’s How Long Has This Been Going On? and Bennett’s Oh, Lady Be Good! are Target Exclusives.)

Although Krall previously sang on two of Bennett’s albums, Duets: An American Classic (2006), and Playin’ With My Friends: Bennett Sings The Blues (2001), Love Is Here To Stay (2018) is their first full-length project together. The album also features the Grammy-winning New York based Bill Charlap Jazz Trio (Charlap/piano Peter Washington/bass and Kenny Washington/drums).

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CD Review Lifestyle - Grammy Nominees I really appreciate the duo’s ability to make these classic songs sound fresh and new! It’s obvious that the pair, who’ve been friends for more than two decades, not only share a love of the Great American Songbook, but a true mastery of vocal interpretation and phrasing. And although nearly 40 years Bennett’s junior, it appears to this listener that Krall was born to sing with him! When I grow weary of the boilerplate “vocalists” being mass produced today, it’s always nice to know that Tony Bennett, 92 (whose voice is as strong as ever), is still out there making great music, and I expect to be able to count on Diana Krall, 54, to deliver at least another 30 years.

My Essential Three: *Somebody Loves Me, *My One and Only, *I’ve Got A Crush On You.

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“When you thought the Lies, Betrayal and Deceit could not get any worse…”

Author Robin Munro

“Pure Revenge picks up right after the end of Pure Deception with even more twist and turns.”

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CD Review Lifestyle - Grammy Nominees By: Sheila E. Ross For anticipative thinkers, the site of a rainbow illuminates as a beautiful band of color that invokes hope, optimism and a continued satisfying expectation for life. The stunning shades appear—stimulate, and inspire us to “ride.”

For two-time Grammy nominated, vocalist/ guitarist Raul Midón, this is no mere flight of the imagination as Midón’s recent album release, “If You Really Want” currently ventures across his own personal multi-colored rainbow with another Grammy nomination. His first nomination comes with “Bad Ass & Blind” Artistry Music/Mack Avenue 2017 through his personal love for music, courage, confidence and a full-filling life. This New Mexico born, singer/songwriter and multi-talented musician along with the Metropole Orkestra conducted by Vince Mendoza shares with us a theme of courage and hope with, “If You Really Want.” The project thoughtfully encourages and stimulates us consistently through ten tracks, starting with ‘Ride On A Rainbow’, ‘If You Really Want’ (title track), and ‘Sunshine I Can Fly’.

Track one, ‘Ride On a Rainbow,’ a totally fun, good feelings, up-tempo, lovable, spirited song places us on the adventurous ride, encourages us to detach from the every-day and simply ‘ride’! Midón invokes us to open our minds with a 30| SmoothJazz Magazine

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CD Review Lifestyle - Grammy Nominees calypso sound. His guitar play along with delightful horn and sax accompaniment places the rainbow right in front of us! It gives us hope! Where can we ride? It is all about opening your mind.

‘If You Really Want’ (title track), comes across with so much honesty in both vocals and musicianship. It is smooth, warm, and engages the listener. This track invokes a smile for the smooth jazz listener! The Metropole Orkestra comes forth here strong and supportive of Midón’s tone and vocal ability and radiates such importance to the album as it imparts major themes for the listener. Here Midón not only stimulates, he inspires and provides the confidence and courage for us to ‘do it’! His vocal sharing here is impeccable, clear, smooth, persuasive, engaging and ever so natural. This Holland rooted non-classical jazz Orkestra here comes across live, spirited with a jazzy sound accompanied with a lead guitar and Midón’s singing. “And if you really want, you’ll take the time until you find your wings to fly”.

‘Sunshine I Can Fly’ raises one to their feet to embrace this spirited calypso dance vibe with, “Sunshine, when your with me I can fly”. Midón’s vocal here is consistent, light, airy, beautiful convincing and for sure, a valid ‘pick me up’. His vocal range accompanies a powerful Latin vibe from the Orkestra. Here, it is all about the ‘sun’. The ability to fly, the ability to do more comes from the rays of the sun! This track for sure broadens the range for typical smooth jazz listeners, and opens our minds to achieve more in both life and music!

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Concert

By: Ronda Dixon

Grammy Award nominated and globally renowned a cappella ensemble.

Special Guest: both actress Alfre Woodard and Dawn Lewis joined in as part of the choir for the show finally.

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Concert

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Feature Sheila E. Ross For Smooth Jazz connoisseurs around the globe, those of us as devoted patrons, fans and supporters of Smooth Jazz, all exclusively share one sentiment: Our Genuine Love for the Music. As educated listeners, we appreciate that boundless pulse that radiates through -out the world and seek to follow the rhythm internationally, but do we really? Do we, as devoted listeners truly take advantage of the many international jazz music opportunities imparted to us? Do we know just how the music meets the culture in faraway places? This year, thanks to Albert Dadon, (musically known as Albare) Latin Grammy - Award nominated producer, guitarist, business executive, philanthropist along with International Jazz Day, we as jazz enthusiast now have a fresh music experience on the horizon to plan for and discover!

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Feature With respect to culture, jazz fans need to view this as the perfect opportunity to absorb the music and the culture! So just how unique is this year’s celebration and its location with respect to the music and the culture?

Well thanks to Guitarist, Albert Dadon (Albare), both Sydney and Melbourne (where he immigrated to in 1983 after growing up in both Israel and France, originally born in Morocco) now benefit from his years of dedicated work to both culture and music. For Albare, this achievement does not come casually, much time, effort and strategic work to music and culture foreshadow this day for him.

Urbanity, (his jazz band) formed in 2016, to record Urban Soul for Alfi Records reached the Top 10 of the Billboard Smooth Jazz charts, and was no. 70 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz chart in 2017.

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Interestingly, the word Urbanity refers to style, class and sophistication. Albare co-leads the band as a Latin Grammy-Award nominated producer along with Phil Turcio, Grammy Award-nominated pianist. Together the two lead an urbane blend of relaxed grooves and melodic interplay in their music. Albare also founded Alfi Records, a record label of musicians for musicians featuring some of the best Jazz and Classical artists as the most recent CD release, entitled “Urbanity” features Phil Turcio (piano, keyLet the music take you…

Feature

boards, programming, co-producer), who has been a frequent collaborator with Albare for over 20 years.

Preview Urbanity single of “Desperado” a remake from the second studio album of The Eagles released in 1973.

As guitarist, composer, bandleader and producer, Albare was the pioneer of the ‘acid jazz’ genre in Australia in the late 1980s. He has continued to record and perform at home and abroad.

Urbanity features original compositions

by Albare and Phil, along with their instrumental arrangement of The Eagles classic, “Desperado” by singer Bernard Fowler and saxophonist Tim Ries (from the Rolling Stones touring band) are fea3 Minutes tured guests on one track. The CD release party is February 22nd at Birds Basement in Melbourne.

Preview

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Feature Entertainingly, even before its official release, Urbanity is enjoying significant success on the US Contemporary Jazz radio networks. Already, two singles have been released – ”Once Upon A Love” and “Desperado”-- and have been featured on the Billboard Smooth Jazz chart. A third single, “I Say” will release this month.

Albare’s work to the culture includes his 2003 establishment of the Australian Jazz Bell Awards (named after Australian legend and patron of the event Graeme Bell, AO). He chairs the board of The Australian Jazz Awards Limited (a not-forprofit arts organization) that governs the awards. Interestingly, The Bells are the only form of formal recognition system entirely devoted to the jazz art form in Australia. They recognize the achievements of young and established Australian jazz performers and composers.

Further, in 2008, Albare received an Order of Australia (AM) for service to the arts, particularly through the Melbourne Jazz Festival, through philanthropic support for cultural and charitable organizations, and to business. In 2009, Albare established the Australia Israel Leadership Forum, which then became the Australia UK The Basement a must Israel Leadership Dialogue once the UK joined the group in 2011. In March 2015, he stopover for tourists and a regular experience for realized one of his long-term dreams with the opening of Bird's Basement, a Jazz Club Sydney and regional jazz in Melbourne, in association with Birdland enthusiasts. “I would love New York. "Bird's Basement Website". to provide Sydneysiders with a wonderful 21st So Smooth Jazz connoisseurs around the globe, through Albare’s enormous contribu- century experience, similar to what we created in tions to music and Sydney, being the host city, Australia on April 30 of this year is the Melbourne at Bird’s place to visit for International Jazz Day! Basement.”

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New CD Releases 2019

Isaac Edwards “Begin Again” 02/22/19

Keiko Matsui “Echo” 02/22/19 BUY

Norman Brown “The Higest Act Of Love “ 02/22/19 BUY

Jazz Funk Soul “Life And Times” 01/25/10 BUY

Catherine Russell “Alone Together” 03/01/19 BUY

BUY

Bob Holz “Silverthorne” 02/08/19 BUY

Joey DeFrancesco “In The Key Of The Universe” 03/01/19 BUY

Alister Spence/Satoko Fujii "Imagine Meeting You Here 01/18/19 BUY

Chucho Valdés “Jazz Bata” 11/16/18 BUY

CD Reviews Festivals By: Keivu G. Knox At 82 years of age, pianist and bandleader Eddie Palmieri shows absolutely no signs of taking it easy or resting on his laurels, as he’s released his 45th album, and 2nd release this year. Mi Luz Mayor is an album that is full of love, expression and musicianship that long-time fans and new discoverers will both enjoy.

Palmieri has crafted this album as a love story chronicling the relation between himself and his late wife, Iraida. This eleven track project shows what has earned Palmieri eight Grammys in his career, which also features Gilberto Santa Rosa and Herman Olivera handling lead vocals.

"Abarriba Cumbiaremos” kicks things off, featuring Olivera on lead. It is one of eight covers on the album but allows for more emphasis to be placed on the horn section. “Chica Ni Lambo” is up next, handing the vocals to Santa Rosa, who is more than up to the challenge. Palmieri leads the charge on this up-tempo salsa number.

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CD Reviews Review The album’s lead single features Carlos Santana and is destined to be one of the best Latin Jazz tracks of 2018. “Mi Congo” has everything you would want in a perfect song. From Santana’s guitar to Palmieri piano, to Ray Santos handling the horn arrangements, so an awesome percussion performance. Everyone gets in on the party and it really pushes the musical envelope.

There are plenty of other standout cuts on this album. One is the title track, which features another great performance by Santa Rosa and catchy percussion. “Quimbombó” is a cover that places more of an emphasis on Palmieri’s solo, which draws immediate comparison to Thelonious Monk in its approach. By the time we get to the album’s closer, “Sun Sun Babaé,” it is evident that Palmieri and his band had fun in creating this project.

What separates this album from other salsa/jazz albums is that the musicianship is at a high level, and everyone is given an opportunity to showcase their talents. One musician or instrument is not more important than another, and it is the perfect definition of cohesion and togetherness.

Eddie Palmieri has a hit album in the making, and almost 50 years after his debut, “Mi Luz Mayor” proves that he is still getting better with time.

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CD Review

I enjoyed reading the magazine on the app! It was easy to follow. Easy to navigate. And, most of all, very informative! Thanks again for sharing. Keep GREAT music and TALENTED artist alive!

Rhonda McDaniel Swann

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FREE PREVIEW

CD Reviews Review

By Sherelle Cary Smith I see Nat King Cole smiling down from Heaven with daughter Natalie by his side. They're both looking at each other, grinning ear to ear. Together, they take his mantle and place it gently around the shoulders of Gregory Porter as he opens his "One Night Only" performance with "Mona Lisa." The London Studio Orchestra plays luscious chords skillfully arranged by Vince Mendoza in the background and foreground...that's the beauty of this night of song and music and new live release by Gregory Porter, "One Night Only" on the Blue Note Record Label.

It is so beautifully balanced in sound, so pleasing to the ear. Song after song, this CD set list of 18 selections makes you feel that you are present, and that you are partaking in an event of a lifetime. The Royal Albert Hall is quite the fitting venue for this performance. You must buy this immediately!

There are so many wonderful songs and Gregory Porter sings each one skillfully, but after reading a bit of his biography, the one song that touches my heart the most is, "I Wonder Who My Daddy Is". Instantly, he becomes a child asking an Let the music take you‌ SmoothJazz Magazine | 47

Festivals CD Review Reviews innocent, but gut wrenching question. He sings simply, but from experience. You can hear it in his voice. He's remembering his own childhood and the father who "just wasn't there". It makes me appreciate the two Grammys awarded him since his debut in 2010 with the CD, "Water"...a true achiever. "Don't Lose Steam" and closing song is a funky, upbeat, and soulful message to other men to keep holding on and to not give up. He is a shining example of survival.

One of my favorite songs in this performance is "Quizas, Quizas, Quizas" articulated vocally in Spanish as if it's his first language. Luscious.

Vocally, Gregory has such beautiful balance of vibrato and tone. He tells a story while singing, a true vocal stylist against a backdrop of some of the best orchestration I've ever heard. There are 18 songs here and not enough space to delve into each with justice. I have a feeling that you will each have your own list of favorites after listening, with at least song that deeply touches you in some way. Buy this CD, get dressed up, and then go sit in front of your speakers or put on your headset and close your eyes. I promise...you'll feel like you are right there...

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CD Reviews Review By: Maggi Bridgman

This is Nicole's first smooth jazz album and this one is a stand out! After a varied musical career starting with a phase of singing in her church choir, a great platform for many recording artists! She then sang with several bands to bring in some cash and with encouragement from the choir director of her high school, she studied at Knoxville College on a vocal scholarship... after years of touring and becoming a wife and mother she moved into musical theatre landing a lead role in Elton John's Aida in amateur theatre. From there she went on to star in Jesus Christ, Superstar as Mary Magdalene at the Alliance Theatre.

This led, a few years later to starring in 'Native Guard', produced by Tyrone Jackson who became a close friend and introduced her to Ernest Coleman (EC3).

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CD Reviews Review These guys had faith in her talent and got together with her to produce her first solo album, 'Fly', an outstanding piece of work for its passion and skill.

Nicole favours scat singing - I am not usually keen on it but she uses it sparingly and in a subtle way, turning her voice into a musical instrument and so converting me!

Fadeout endings are almost non-existent in other genres these days but Nicole seems to prefer this gentle winding down of a song as a jazz technique.

Track 1 'Fly'. This is an upbeat first track. An Al Jarreau number. It opens up with a spate of scat which introduces us to the dramatic versatility of her voice.

I love the long drawn out 'Flyyyyyy' at the end.

Track 2 'Stealing a Line'. This is the first of two tracks which she penned herself.

They both demonstrate her social conscience. There is a driving rhythm to the song, comprised of vocal, drum and brass. She reaches a top 'C' half way through the song which is truly impressive.

Track 3 'The First Time Ever I Saw Your Face'. Nicole's take on this hauntingly beautiful song is superb. There is a keyboard intro and a change of tempo about halfway through. She is joined by backing singers, maybe her friend Sol, who described her singing as 'crisp, vintage and new.'

Track 4 'Come With Me'. A cool introduction with some scat . Her voice is very smooth and relaxing to listen to. This is one of the few tracks which has a cold ending, no fadeout. This has an effect of closure and moving on.

Track 5 'Guess Who I Saw Today'. This is a sweet and mellow rendition with an insistent beat. Nicole comes across as sultry on this track which also ends definitively.

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CD Reviews Review Track 6 'Tell Me What I Gotta Do'. This starts with percussion and she is joined by backing singers. A suave brass sound weaves in and out of the song and she slips in a little well integrated scat.

Track 7 'What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life?' She has a piano accompaniment on this track, by Tyrone Jackson. This song really showcases her extensive range. There is colour in the phasing, with sweet and mellow to begin with, then stridently waking you up, then flowing back to a cool trumpet sound at the end.

Track 8 'Love Makes a Woman'. This is truly lyrical and is backed by piano and percussion. It puts me in mind of Ella at times.

Track 9 'Black South'. This is the second track penned by the artiste. She sings with urgency and compassion - 'It's a condition you can't understand' .

Gets in touch with her black sisters and brothers.

Track 10 'Here's to Life'. Originally recorded by Shirley Horn. Tyrone Jackson accompanies her again and her voice is darkly husky. She vocalises 'No complaints and no regrets', so an upbeat ending to an outstanding album.

Nicole breathes new life into these songs, by reimagining a selection of classic and lesser known numbers by such as Al Jarreau, Roberts Flack, Phoebe Snow, Shirley Horn, Nancy Wilson et al.

She succeeds by bringing to the album a balance of emotion, hushed intimacy and dramatic flair.

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CD Reviews Review By: By Ahlia Love

The Promise Will Downing CD Review Love is truly a verb. Many of us make statements but for some reason the good intentions lack follow through. This CD project shows both Love and Honor in keeping a promise made to God and the Beautiful Mother of this blessed silky song pioneer. I promise you, if you are a fan of good Gospel or Inspirational music you will love Will Downing’s first Gospel project.

Track 1: Take it to The Cross – I can definitely hear a church choir jumping on this track and making it their own. An up-tempo future classic with a great hook. With this being just the first track I already see potential Grammy noms for Will Downing with this project.

Track 2: Look at Yourself (In the Mirror) Another future classic. Nothing but love for this track as well.

Track 3: I Hear a Voice – Classic Will Downing vocally. God has indeed blessed this track by way of lyrics and the arrangement.

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CD Reviews Review my Spirit. I am grateful for this compo- Track 10: Changed – I personally believe sition and I believe anyone who listens that this is the true song of personal to it will feel the same. thanks and testimony which actually fulfills the promise of this project…hence Track 5: He Will Be There – Another the intention of Will Downing’s mission. awesome track to get you day off to a powerful start. I dare you to have a bad I’m blessed to hear a lot of great music day after listening to this track. but every now and then I encounter what I feel has the potential to become Track 6: What Would I Do – This ara classic not just in a given genre but rangement is one that seems to have Universally. If you are a fan of Will even more of a so-called secular feel Downing, Inspirational or Gospel music than the previous tracks but still like the this entire project is going to be difficult entire project this song is filled with the to pass by. It would be hard NOT to inlove and praise…just packed with a lil’ clude “Promise” as a major part of your more funk. playlist. Great Job Mr. Downing!

Track 7: God Is So Amazing - This song is just so pretty and I could see it being used commercially in a wide variety formats. The vocals as usual do not disappoint.

Track 8: God Will Show You The Way Still trying to find just one song that I DON’T like and this track is NOT one of them. Wow, more inspiration balanced with an exciting arrangement.

Track 9: Shout (A Celebration of Life) This is a very catchy undeniably feel good groove with another powerful reminder of gratitude.

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CD Reviews Review By: Avzal Ismail

Its not jazz in the traditional sense..its not new age, neither is it world music in the truest sense ..it's not folk and neither is it rock and yet it is hip, fresh, funky and contemporary and musically as relevant now as when they first appeared on the scene over three decades ago. “33 1/3� the latest release from the evergreen Acoustic Alchemy has to be their best release yet with incredibly detailed production and a stylistically versatile array of songs.

Here's a band that has been at the musical cutting edge for a long time and that very eclectic mix of sound and style is pretty much why they cannot be boxed into any one genre but are rather a rare fusion of many styles which result in their own very unique brand of musically dense yet thoroughly enjoyable sounds.

Formed in the United Kingdom and fronted originally by acoustic guitarists Nick Webb and Simon James, the band is currently led by Greg Carmichael and Miles Gilderdale on nylon, steel, acoustic and electric guitars.

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CD Reviews Review According to Greg Carmichael "at the core it's always been about one simple concept and that is the sound of nylon and steel stringed guitars working together in a fashion that leaves a lot of scope for exploring all sorts of musical ideas."

And explore they do, coming up with melodies ranging from the simple to the complex. Throw in a powerhouse rhythm section with Greg Grainger on drums and his brother Gary Grainger on bass and a master keyboard player by way of Fred White and you have a true musical, alchemical magic happening at the highest order.

Since 1987, the overriding mission of the group has been to reach the broadest possible audiences by pushing the potential of instrumental music, yet keeping it accessible for all while never compromising themselves and this is once again evident on 33 1/3.

From the very Middle Eastern flavored opening song East of Babylon to the classical Allemande and the Prelude in D minor, from the very funky and harmonically interesting A little Closer to the Steely Dan like shuffle on Blues for Mr Mu there is something for everyone's taste on this album.

I imagine myself driving along a coastal road in a cabriolet with the wind blowing in my face and this album on full blast.

This latest offering from Acoustic Alchemy is definitely worth checking out. It strikes a perfect balance in terms of variety with superb production and musicianship and something makes me think that you might just like it enough to add it to your collection of great music.

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CD Reviews Review By: Avzal Ismail

When I first got wind of a new album in the making by some of my favorite musicians, I just knew that I had to give this some serious attention.

Imagine three master musicians in a collaboration of note, writing, performing and creating together without the inhibition of commercial viability and you get an album made by musicians for musicians first and foremost. This then is the album "Elemental" featuring a collaboration between Venezuelan-American the great Otmaro Ruiz on piano, former Yellowjackets bassist extraordinaire Jimmy Haslip who currently produces and performs with the likes of Jeff Lorber and others and rhythm master from Cuba, the incredible Jimmy Branly on drums. A more formidable lineup would be hard to find or to emulate.

Here are three superb musicians each a master of his instrument being given complete reign to the creative process resulting in this incredible album that has it all compositional writing, musicianship, and production value of the absolute highest order.

Breaking away from the traditional acoustic trio format, these three master musicians head off on a quest into the stratosphere using electronic instruments, synths, Rhodes and acoustic piano to assault the senses with a cornucopia of virtuosity and musical flair.

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CD Reviews Review With the exception of Boomtown, all the compositions are penned by Otmaro Ruiz. I’ve been a fan of Otmaro’s since the early 1990s when I first saw him performing with Dave Weckl and Walfredo Reyes on a DCI percussion instructional video. Then already I was blown away by this incredible musician who seemed to dominate the stage. Through the years, of course, we connected and went on to develop a close friendship, the same as with Jimmy Haslip whom I had first met way back when the Yellowjackets came to South Africa for the very first time.

And so having two good friends on this album makes it even more special.

From the opening song “A Good Start” with Otmaro (or OT as we fondly call him) on the organ the tone was set for the rest of this brilliant album. The song itself is somewhat reminiscent of Return to Forever’s “Vulcan Worlds” with some superb bass work

by Haslip, and of course anchored by Jimmy Branley. I particularly loved their treatment of the Yellowjackets tune Boomtown originally recorded in 2002 on the Mint Jams album. Of course, having one of the co-composers (Haslip) performing it is a bonus the other composer being the great Russ Ferrante. Jimmy Branly pretty much takes center stage here with some superb solo work.

In between, there are other superb compositions. I especially loved “Red Wall” with its dark undertones and Yoruban feel.

I could go on about this album singling each and every composition out in detail, but that would spoil your fun. Get the album and let it wash over you like liquid sunshine.

Look, this is not the kind of album you play for your friends at a weekend barbecue. This is a serious album to be listened to intently. Superb in every respect, this is a MUST HAVE in your collection.

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Smooth Jazz Magazine

CD Reviews Review By: Gaille Hunter

Be transported to the nucleus of jazz the way it was meant to be. Accompanying seductive innuendo more explicit than old-school but definitely putting you in the mood. This track leaves you wanting more and there’s more in store.

This artist has a handle on the need, the desire, and the cry for love. With harmonies so sugary you can taste the pleasure that commands the attention of deep demands. Such weakness in the power of love - give him more.

This modern fusion holds up extremely well when compared to the legendary crooner Arthur Prysock who deviated from his usual format and released a spoken word over jazz project entitled “This Is My Beloved.” It was a shocking departure for the handsome - no - drop-dead gorgeous heartthrob that still mesmerizes jazz lovers.

There’s nothing missing from this recipe - exceptional arrangements, outstanding musicianship, delicate melodies, and perfect harmonies. And the rhythms, sensuality set in 4/4 meter like diamond lullabies floating through purple sunset skies.

There’s a yes to any question. Any request is granted. If this is the soundtrack on a date with you and me – then your wish is my command.

And when nothing in my world makes sense I turn to the blues. “The Naughty Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 61

CD Review CDReviews Reviews Blues” will take you there. The horns are saucy and the guitars twang a swang of sassy-frassy “come and get me right now.” Take me there. What? - an organ?

I’m done. The drums are spanking an e bass is slammin’. Uh unh - run that back.

If it’s all night - it’s alright. Then the bridge shows up like a three-piece suit walkin’ through the door. Where have you been all my life?

Forth Coming CD In 2019

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CD Reviews Review

Bob Baldwin presents Abbey Road and the Beatles, is a masterful composition that is a must have. Bob takes music royalty (songs of the Beatles) and presents these newly polished crown jewels in a sophisticated smooth jazz format that is just as infectious as they were when they were first released by the Fab Four. I have singled out two tunes to give the listener an insight of this album. Come Together is so soulful smooth with a a haunting grove that can't be resisted. This is the definition of the "Cool," just the way Miles Davis would have liked it!

The embellishments of melodies, rhythms, and harmonies are not over done to the point that you do not recognize the tune. Abbey Road has pleasing vocal melodies and harmonies in all the right places while paying tribute to the Fab Four and their music that will never grow old.

This masterful work is supported by the vintage musicianship of Tony Lewis on Drums, Dave

By: Carl Wayne Wesley

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CD Reviews Review Anderson on Bass, Cafe' Da Silva on Percussion, Euge Groove on Saxophone, Regan Whiteside on Flute, Dennis Johnson on Percussion / Atmosphere, CeCe Piniston and Lori Williams Lead Vocals. There are very few Artist that could take on a task this heavy and present it with a fresh new bold face that is pleasing to all that listen. Royal Artistry, and Masterful Soulful Sophistication is what I would say Bob Baldwin has presented with the reboot of Abbey Road and the Beatles. This album is a must have!

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CD Reviews Review By: Kimberly D. Holiday

JAY KING Jay King incorporates a smooth soulful R&B sound with jazzy flare and groovy undertones. This CD delivers a wellbalanced pallet of easy sounds and upbeat tempos. Jay King’s music is sure to either get your shoulders bopping or your hips to rocking. With its old school soul vibe you may even feel the urge to hit the dance floor. Jay King expresses vulnerability, the highs and lows of love in a musical expression I like to call musical foreplay. The contrast in mood is very well balanced, bringing out a sense of playful love and adventure.

The entire CD is presented in lyrical fashion, telling stories of love and heartbreak that resonate as sweet melodies to the hearts of all. “I’m where you belong” is loaded with that very sweetness. The vocals and sexy saxophone are blended in perfect harmony to create the wedding song of 2019. King’s voice is sultry, mellow and tender. His lyrics are written with intention, for the sole purpose of setting the atmosphere for romance.

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CD Reviews Review Jay King has mastered the art of contemporary love songs for the grown and sexy.

His songs are all about love. Caution, this CD may arouse passion. Each song is supreme for a rainy day inside with the one you love while equally suited for a self-care drive in Sunny California. Jay King is sure to relax your mind and take your breath away.

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CD Reviews Review By: Eryn K. Bozeman

Yes, Jeff Goldblum, I had to hear it to believe it, and yes it’s a CD review, not a movie review. I truly adore this man, so this was a mind-blowing musical experience for me. I will start by saying; this is a great easy to listen to, easy to jam to, easy to laugh to CD. Jeff Goldblum is everything I could hope for when he sits behind a piano. The chemistry between he and his band is a perfect pairing like finding the ideal wine to go with dinner. I was elated and surprised at his musicianship on many songs, such as Herbie Hancock’s, “Cantaloupe,” or Miles Davis’, “It Never Entered My Mind,” & Duke Ellington’s, “Caravan.” I find all of them incredibly well done and I played them endlessly throughout my day. Let’s not forget the quality of singers and friends on the CD. Let the music take you… SmoothJazz Magazine | 67

CD Reviews Review Jeff has guest appearance from Sarah Silverman where he joins in and sings a humorous rendition of “Me and My Shadow.” He also has Imelda May, who has a dreamy voice that seems to remind you of Billie Holiday. She sings one of my CD favorites, which is a version of “Straighten Up & Fly Right,” that will blow your mind. The song is as smooth as butter from beginning to end. Another guest appearance on the CD is Haley Reinhart, an outstanding singer who placed third on the tenth season of American Idol. Haley sings my second CD favorite, which is “My Baby Just Cares For Me.” It’s a sexy fun son that just makes you smile and joyful. You can tell the interaction during this recording was so fun. Okay, one extra CD favorite and you will love it every time you play it, it’s Caravan. You will love it every single time you play it. I tend to put it on repeat a couple of times.

Overall, this CD is going to land as one of my all-time favorites. The incredible talent Jeff has brought together is amazing and musically fulfilling. My last bit of advice, please go and enjoy this experience and share it with your family and friends. I highly recommend it and have also purchased it for gifts.

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CD Review Reviews By: Carl Wayne Wesley

Al Turner has stayed true to the words Smooth and Jazz with his masterful composition “This is”! This is opens with a flowing samba that smoothly transitions to a funky grove on the bridge. The melody is well constructed and not over played due to Al’s flawless technical execution. This is Smooth Jazz the way it should be played. The tune Rejoice is a jubilee of blended soulful grooves. Back in the day, us musicians would say;” this groove is funkier than five fish heads on a garbage can top left out in the sun!” Al truly picked up where artist like the Jazz Crusader’s, George Duke, Rick James, and Jaco Pastorius left off. The chart “7” shows off Al’s creativity, musicianship, and writing ability as the composition defines smooth and cool. 7 opens with a fragmented head that transitions to a smooths theme followed by a sneaky bridge that makes this composition unique. The solo work by Al is clean and refreshing to the ear. There aren’t many tunes today written in an ABC format that keeps the integrity of the composition from start to finish. The tune, Living Inside Your Love, is a salute to Al's friend and bandmate Earl Klugh.. Al highlights 70| SmoothJazz Magazine

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CD Reviews the beautiful vocals of L'Renee on this vocal instrumental chart. You will find yourself singing the hook, and patting your feet, as you sway to the melodic vocal and bass melodies that seems endless!

This album is Smooth Jazz the way it was met to be played. Al Turner knocked the ball out of the park with this album!

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