Improvijazzation Nation Magazine Review of E.J. Antonio

Review: http://zzaj.freehostia.com/wordpress/?page_id=190

E. J. Antonio – RITUALS IN THE MARROW; RECIPE FOR A JAM SESSION:

This spoken-word CD is one of the best musical adventures I’ve been on this year… some of that certainly has to do with my penchant for words (as many of you know, I started out performing poetry, oh so many years ago). E.J. makes her words come ALIVE, especially on pieces like the opener, “Foreign Monkey“… these aren’t “cutesy” 4/4 rhymes, either… this song/poem has genuine GUTS! Many late-nite sessions around the world come back to mind as I listen to “Every Old NY Jazz Club” – can FEEL the smoke drippin’ off the horns, saxes & bass as E.J. guides us through the haze. If the harp/vocal call-response on “Pullman Porter” doesn’t reach right out & touch you – you might as well be Elliot Ness – unTOUCHable! I’ve no doubt we will be hearing lots more from Ms. Antonio – this gets a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an “EQ” (energy quotient) rating of 4.97. Get more information at /www.ejantoniobluez.net/ Rotcod Zzaj

If Time Stood Still Review from All About Jazz

By Jerry D'Souza Read entire review here: http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=37638

Norman Johnson was in high school in Jamaica when he heard George Benson and became interested in the guitar. He says that he was mesmerized by Benson, and though he figured that he was too old at 16 to begin playing an instrument he went ahead. Later studying at the Hartt School of Music with Jackie McLean and Brian Keane, his influences grew to include Wes Montgomery, Earl Klugh, and Andres Segovia. Segovia fostered his love for classical music and, along with Klugh, the nylon-string guitar.

Johnson is comfortable in several styles. He realizes them through different lineups, with the underlying factor being his enunciation. He is a clean and nimble player who imbues a lyrical sonority to his textures.

Johnson balances themes and tempos well enough through his playing and arrangements. It certainly augurs well for the future which, hopefully, will produce more fine music.

For more about Norman Johnson go to: http://www.NormanJohnsonGuitar.com

Jazz Station - Vocal CD of the Month - "Dancing with Johnny"

Jazz Station
Arnaldo DeSouteiro

Vocal CD of the Month Linda Ciofalo: "Dancing with Johnny" (Lucky Jazz) 2010

Rating: *****
A very pleasant surprise, full of surprises thanks to the creative arrangements (by pianist John DiMartino and Linda herself) and, of course, the lovely vocal & instrumental performances.
On this self-produced release, Ciofalo is backed by Grammy winner - and a current member of the CTI All Stars 2010 Band - Brian Lynch on trumpet, John DiMartino (piano), John Benitez (bass), Ernesto Simpson (drums), Little Johnny Rivero (percussion), Paul Meyers (nylon string guitar), Chieli Minucci (electric guitar) and Joel Frahm (tenor & soprano saxophones).

A Johnny Mercer Songbook -- showcasing the lyricist's genius with such diverse partners as Victor Schertzinger, Jerome Kern, Harold Arlen, Hoagy Carmichael, Henry Mancini, Robert Emmett Dolan, Gordon Jenkins, Ralph Burns, Woody Herman & Rube Bloom -- couldn't go wrong in terms of repertoire, but what makes this CD really so special is the fresh appeal of each & every track, with Linda Ciofalo's bell-clear beautiful voice shining throughout the 52-minute program of 13 tunes, all recorded in a single session, on October 20, 2009 in NY.

My personal favorite tracks are the exciting latin-tinged scores of "Tangerine" (on which the intoxicating percussion work of Little Johnny Rivero, combining congas & timbales, sounds like a meeting of Mongo Santamaria with Tito Puente) and "That Old Black Magic," both also featuring Lynch (undoubtedly one of the Top 5 trumpeters in the contemporary jazz scene) and Frahm.

But there are many other highlights, such as the Diana Krall-like sensual approach to "Talk To Me Baby" (done as a slow bossa nova, with Paul Meyers, a veteran of Thiago de Mello's Amazon band, playing acoustic guitar a la Joao Gilberto) and the up-tempo bossa take of "Day In, Day Out," again embellished by Meyers' syncopated guitar beat.

The magnificent "Early Autumn" becomes a quasi-bolero, "Skylark" receives a bluesy feel with Minucci evoking memories of the late Eric Gale, and "P.S. I Love You" (a song that Diana Krall has been singing on her current "Quiet Nights" tour and plans to record on her next album) appears here with Rivero adding bongos to add a soft latin spice to this sumptuous Gordon Jenkins ballad. Pure delight!
For additional infos and pics, please check: http://jazzstation-oblogdearnaldodesouteiros.blogspot.com/2010/06/linda-ciofalos-new-cd-tribute-to-johnny.html

POET E. J. ANTONIO DEBUTS CD featuring Christian McBride

Poet E.J. Antonio envisioned her debut CD, Rituals in the marrow: Recipe for a jam session, as an “in-the-moment jam session.” This recording is a unique blend of spoken words that dance with the sonic diversity of instruments as they wind their way through the genres of jazz, blues, gospel, r&b, and Afro-Latin rhythms. “I often go to live jazz performances,” spoke Antonio, “and write down the images that come to me from listening to the music and watching the musicians’ physical reactions to the music. These genres of music and this gift of words have influenced me my entire life. My bones have absorbed these sounds, move to these sounds, and rest in these sounds.” Blues, jazz, r&b and pop music were staples of Antonio’s life growing up in Spanish Harlem. So was her fascination for words and gospel influences that were a direct result of watching her grandmother Lucille, a Pastor of Gospel Temple Church of Christ, work on and preach her sermons.

The musicians on this project were chosen because of their creative improvisational skills and extraordinary ability to “listen” to each other. Antonio’s concept was to keep an element of surprise and risk, so all the tracks are live collaborations with no rehearsals. On the first track, renowned jazz artist Christian McBride along with Christopher Dean Sullivan (acoustic bass), Saco Yasuma (bamboo sax), and Joe Giardullo (reeds) resonate together to form the tension egg of sound necessary to make the birthing of the poem “foreign monkey” possible. Trumpet player Eddie Allen becomes the foil in “bluesman/truth be told,” while Tyehimba Jess on harmonica is the “in-your-face” gospel sound bolstering the voice in “Pullman porter.” “Sound rhythium” musician Michael T.A. Thompson (drums) and Joe Giardullo (flute) are complimented by Sullivan who uses his acoustic bass as a percussion instrument bringing home the Afro-Latin sound in the danceable “ballad mambo.” Track number eight was inspired by the music of June Kuramoto and the sounds of the koto instrument. The bamboo sax of Saco Yasuma with the French horn treatment by Mark Taylor add the perfect touch of serenity and introspective to “koto suite.” Every track, with words that drip like honey from Antonio’s mouth, is clearly live improvisation at its best.

E.J. Antonio is a 2009 fellow in Poetry from the New York Foundation for the Arts and a recipient of fellowships from the Hurston/Wright Foundation and the Cave Canem Foundation. She has appeared as a featured reader at several venues in the NY tri-state area, such as Cornelia Street Café, the Bronx Council on the Arts First Wednesday reading series, the Calypso Muse Reading Series, the Hudson Valley Writers Center, the Harvard Club, WBAI’s broadcast Perspectives, the National Jazz Museum in Harlem, the Bahai Center, Hunter Mountain Arts Festival, the Bowery Poetry Club, the Port Chester Art Fest 2008, 2009 and 2010, the Home Base Project, the York Arts Center, the Latimer House Museum, and the Howl Festival.
Her work appears online at www.thedrunkenboat.com, poetz.com, and roguescholars.com, and has been published in various Journals and magazines; including, African Voices Literary Magazine, Amistad Literary Journal, Terra Incognita, Black Renaissance/Renaissance Noire, Mobius: The Poetry Magazine, The Mom Egg Literary Journal, One Word/Many Voices: A Bi-Lingual Poetry Anthology, and Torch. Her work is forthcoming in The Encyclopedia Project. The Premier Poets Chapbook Series published her first chapbook, Every Child Knows, in the Fall of 2007, and she is one of the featured poets on the CD, Beauty Keeps Laying It’s Sharp Knife Against Me: Brant Lyon and Friends.

“I use my work to bring attention to the commonalities we share as human beings, and to shed a light on the idea that there needs to be a place for a different kind of spoken word; that the collaboration of music and poetry is still a viable art form. Some call this jazzoetry, others call it pojazz, and others call it poemusic or spoken word. Whatever the title, it is clearly not just jazz or poetry, but something that resonates in the heart, something that causes a person to slow down and listen.”

and now, somebody
will sing you a praise song
a revival song
a song
buoyant / full of the blues and the jazz and the hymn
of struggle fraught from one continent to another and back
to the beginning
where the ocean carves
skeletons to gauze / unraveling
it sings
praises to your dead
while you push
on and on and on and on and on...
writing new choruses to Amazing Grace
how sweet the sound…
we sing
sing
sing
(from “pullman porter” by E.J. Antonio)

For more information go to, www.EjAntonioBluez.net.

Norman Johnson Reviewed on Improvijazzation Nation

Norman Johnson - IF TIME STOOD STILL:

Improvijazzation Nation Rotcod Zzaj
Issue # 105 - http://zzaj.freehostia.com/Z105Reviews.htm

Includes reviews for at least 36 other artists

If the words "laid-back" & "groove" fit the mood you're in, you'll definitely want to listen to this debut CD from Norman... the opening track,"It's Time To Fly" will set the mood for the rest of the 10 highly-inspired tracks, no doubt. Norman's got a cast of players far too long to itemize here, so you'll have to buy the CD to get that. He's been around for many years, playing with folks like Dave Brubeck, Harvie S (also reviewed in this issue) & Phil Wilson, just to name a few; he shows on this CD that he has a marvelous talent for making music that will enchant your ears and capture your heart instantly. I just loved "Always and Forever," which takes us back to a magical time when music was an inspiration (think Wes, think Wes, think Wes). It was the soulful "Can I Get An Amen" that captured my vote for favorite, though... it will make a believer out of you, no doubt! I've no doubt that we'll be hearing lots more from Mr. Johnson in the next few years, and I'm truly looking forward to that. I give him a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, and an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of 4.96.

Interview with Gteen Screen Author, Jeff Foster

Jeff Foster had the pleasure of being interviewed by Michael Ray Dresser for his online radio program “Dresser After Dark” to discuss his book, “The Green Screen Handbook."

Mr. Dresser is known to interview experts and authors over a range of topics and took interest in Jeff's book for technology.

The interview airs tonight, August 5, at 7:00pm PDT on BlogRadio at Dresser After Dark, along with several other authors and topical experts.

You can also hear the interview at: Jeff_Foster-Dresser-Radio_8-4-10.mp3

or get the book or contact Jeff at: www.pixelpainter.com

If Time Stood Still Debut From Guitarist Norman Johnson Releases August 10, 2010

"Time Stands Still" For Guitarist Norman Johnson's Distinctive Debut Contemporary Jazz CD Release

READ ENTIRE PRESS RELEASE:
http://www.prweb.com/releases/jazz/guitar/prweb4281054.htm

Ojai, CA (PRWEB) July 26, 2010 If Time Stood Still, called "an album with a sumptuous groove. . . with a style in the best traditions of Wes Montgomery and George Benson," is the debut solo release from guitarist Norman Johnson slated to be released August, 10, 2010 on the Pacific Coast Jazz label. From enjoyable rhythmic concepts to the mysterious, sultry melodies that frame Johnson's distinctive sound, this recording integrates the best of contemporary and traditional jazz. With over twenty recordings as a sideman, playing with highly respected musicians (Dave Brubeck, Jerry Bergonzi, Bill Mays, Harvie S., Phil Wilson and Steve Gadd) along with composing and recording music for corporate clients, this release puts Norman Johnson in the spotlight he truly deserves.

If Time Stood Still is well worth the wait with exceptional original songs that incorporate Latin and contemporary jazz grooves and a special arrangement of the Pat Metheny cover tune, "Always and Forever. "There are five different types of guitars used on this recording, a string quartet on the title cut, and a wide range of instruments that include, Tyler VanOstrand (bass), Ken Fischer (piano), Chris Herbert (sax and flute), Steve Davis (trombone), Josh Bruneau (trumpet), including drummers, Bob Forte, Arti Dixson, Anthony Cusano, Chris Lemp drums and percussionists, Martin Obeng, Greg Allan and Eric Galm."The songs and arrangements allow each musician to create interesting parts and improvise," commented Johnson. "I would like people to hear this recording for what I intended it to be, good songs played by fine musicians, accessible to everyone whether you love jazz or not."

Fingerprints, Dream Life CD, Review from The Smooth Jazz Ride

Fingerprints New Release,
Dream Life - Review:

Ronald Jackson
TheSmoothJazzRide.com


Dream Life, the fifth release from this very competent contemporary jazz band, Fingerprints, seems to cover more turf than just contemporary jazz as it shows off a fine blend of genres and styles ranging from old school soul to a Brazilian touch.

Read the entire review at: http://www.thesmoothjazzride.com/Fingerprints.html

How Much Do Music Artists Earn Online?

How Much Do Music Artists Earn Online?

I ran across this interesting article about the earnings of digital music from musicians/artists. Sad to say, it's not a surprise but certainly demonstrates how difficult it is to make a living in the music business today.

Which is why it's important to stay flexible and prolific along with finding alternate revenue sources besides CD/digital sales.

The entire article with graphs is at this link: http://tinyurl.com/y99238f

Music Publicity 101 and then some...

I just read this very good short piece on music publicity. These are some of the things I tell my own artists and thought I'd share them with you.

The article is from the DIY musician blog written by Mike King of Berklee College of Music.
For those of us out in the world doing music publicity I appreciate his concise information on some important items. A press kit is very important and how it is constructed.

To read the entire article go to:
http://tinyurl.com/yzrld66

Mike's comments on what constitutes a good promo kit/press kit are the following:
- a bio
- press release
- an advance or finished product
- link to high res photos
- press quotes

I constantly tell new artists and seasoned artists how important these elements are to the press.
After you read the article you can add my extra comments.

My Comments

Bios - I would like to comment along with Mike's article that it is important to not only have a bio but a story that would be of interest to the press. There are a billion CDs floating around out there today and what will make yours most appealing is a compelling story either about the project or about you. It's important that you have someone who can REALLY write well and create your story. It's probably best not to do that on your own because you may not be able to "see" your own story.

Photos - Please make sure your photos are in focus! It's best to consult with someone who really understands what makes a good press photo. Not your brother who happens to take some good shots with his camera. You need a photo that complements your story and is in sync with your project. Not something that you took 10 years ago.

Press quotes - Don't include entire reviews! Just short one or two line statements that are positive and support your story.

Press release - You must know how to write a proper press release. This is important if you want to get the best out of it. Again, leave it to the pros if you don't know how or learn.

Advance or finished copy - Please don't send a finished copy of a recording that was done more than 6 months to a year ago. The press does not like receiving old recordings under the guise that they are a new release. I have had several clients NOT tell me their recording was older and it has not been good for them. If you do want to send something older than be honest. Put that information in your press materials or when you contact them. They will appreciate it and some will even review if they have an area for older CDs. If they like it enough they will review it but you must tell them in advance.

If any of you from the press/media would like to contribute your thoughts as to what would help you working with indie artists, labels and publicists please contribute to this blog.

Thanks ... and happy pr.

Joy

Bradley Leighton - Soul Collective Review

SmoothJazzVibes.com
By Ronald Jackson

Flutist Bradley Leighton has covered a lot of turf in his career as far as citing musical influences is concerned. He’s covered Charlie Parker and even rolled through a little Tower of Power. Here on his 2008 release, Soul Collective, the flutist seems to travel back to his Back to the Funk release as he unleashes some coolly rhythmic and oft funky material on us.
The album runs the gamut for groovable tracks. The opening cut, “It’s On,” has a really nice hook and decidedly smooth yet funky feel while “Café Con Leche” has that appealingly rhythmic and exotic Latin touch. Funk takes center stage with “Wake Up Call” and its sassy swagger. Covers like “She’s Gone,” “Ode to Billy Joe,” and “Keep That Same Ol’ Feeling” are dealt with adeptly and with precision. Vocalist Paula Prophet, who is expected to release her debut sometime this year, offers her “That Man,” which has that early Motown/Martha Reeves kinda groove, and it works…well.

With guest help from Greg Adams, Tom Braxton, Jason Miles, Evan Marks, and Tom Scott, this project came gift-wrapped and set to please. It’s quite obvious that the stellar gathering prompted the album’s name and character.

It’s amazing what the flute has been able to offer in the world of jazz. From Laws to Najee to Zonjic to Leighton and many more, we have come to experience the texture and sweetness that the instrument adds to the genre. Soul Collective speaks to just how fortunate we are to have that experience.

The History Of Jazz Fusion on MOJA Radio to Celebrate the 4th of July!

Lots of great things happening at MOJA Radio and one that caught our attention was, The History Of Fusion!

www.mojaradio.com

This coming Sunday is our great American Holiday The 4th of July and on MOJA Radio they will be celebrating with an exclusive 4-hour special “THE HISTORY OF JAZZ FUSION!”

From 3-7 PM Eastern time (Noon-4 PM Pacific) you’ll hear all four hours of The History of Fusion, Part One, The Birth of Fusion, Part Two, The Super-Groups of Fusion, Part Three, The Solo Stars of Fusion, and Part Four, Fusion –the Second Decade.

So listen this Sunday, The 4th of July for “THE HISTORY OF JAZZ FUSION,” only from MOJA Radio!

Norman Johnson, Pacific Coast Jazz Artist, Releases Debut CD “If Time Stood Still”

Slated for Street Date of August 10, 2010

San Diego, CA – June 15, 2010 – If Time Stood Still, the debut solo release from guitarist Norman Johnson on the Pacific Coast Jazz label, is an exquisite expression of music that has been waiting to happen. From sonic grooves reminiscent of Wes Montgomery and George Benson to the mysterious, sultry melodies that frame Johnson’s distinctive sound, this recording integrates the best of contemporary and traditional jazz. With over twenty recordings as a sideman, playing with highly respected musicians (Dave Brubeck, Jerry Bergonzi, Bill Mays, Harvie S., Phil Wilson and Steve Gadd) along with composing and recording music for corporate clients, this release puts Norman Johnson in the spotlight he truly deserves.

“We’re excited to have the opportunity to represent the debut CD, If Time Stood Still, from such a talented and experienced artist,” says Donna Nichols, founder and president of Pacific Coast Jazz. “This CD is way overdue for Norman who is a high caliber musician and composer.” Nichols’ label has teamed up with publicist Joy Foster of SV Media and radio promoter Adam Leibovitz at ASL Music Media for access to international media buying and radio promotion.

If Time Stood Still is well worth the wait with exceptional original songs that incorporate Latin and contemporary jazz grooves and a special arrangement of the Pat Metheny cover tune, “Always and Forever. “There are five different types of guitars used on this recording, a string quartet on the title cut and a wide range of instruments that include, Tyler VanOstrand (bass), Ken Fischer (piano), Chris Herbert (sax and flute), Steve Davis (trombone), Josh Bruneau (trumpet), including drummers, Bob Forte, Arti Dixson, Anthony Cusano, Chris Lemp drums and percussionists, Martin Obeng, Greg Allan and Eric Galm.“The songs and arrangements allow each musician to create interesting parts and improvise,” commented Johnson. “I would like people to hear this recording for what I intended it to be, good songs played by fine musicians, accessible to everyone whether you love jazz or not.“ For more information and interviews with Norman Johnson, visit www.NormanJohnsonGuitar.com or contact Joy Foster at SVMedia@svmediarelations.com or 310-487-0048.


Pacific Coast Jazz, founded in 2003, is an independent jazz label that also offers artist management services. All PCJ artists are distributed worldwide by MVD Audio/Big Daddy Music. For information on Pacific Coast Jazz, visit: www.pacificcoastjazz.com.

Linda Ciofalo’s West Coast Tour Features Her CD Tribute To Johnny Mercer, Dancing With Johnny

(New York, NY June 22, 2010) –Linda Ciofalo makes her West Coast tour to sing selections from her latest CD, Dancing With Johnny. Ciofalo understands how to deliver a great lyric and on Dancing With Johnny, a special tribute to Johnny Mercer, she shines. Since Mercer is known for his endless brilliance as a first class writer of over 1,000 songs, Ciofalo is breath taking in her element. The songs showcase her tasteful vocal style and Ciofalo allows the strength of the material to serve as the musical foundation upon which her strong, yet distinct vocals sit comfortably as the centerpiece of this timeless collection of standards. But what makes this recording even more rewarding is that all of the compositions have a Latin twist that spark the desire to move to each memorizing Mercer lyric. Deep rooted in the South, Mercer’s award winning songs paint exquisite images of nature, romance, haunting memories and love. “Johnny Mercer’s lyrics dance on a singer’s lips,” said Ciofalo. “His words are intoxicating and a sheer pleasure to sing.”

Dancing With Johnny also features Grammy winner Brian Lynch (trumpet) and stellar musicians such as John DiMartino (piano), John Benitez (bass), Ernesto Simpson (drums), Little Johnny Rivero (percussion), Paul Meyers (nylon string guitar), Chieli Minucci (electric guitar and effects) and Joel Frahm (saxophones). The Mercer material is a welcome addition to Ciofalo's repertoire, which ranges from such diverse sources as bluesman John Lee Hooker to Broadway’s Rodgers and Hammerstein. What a bold statement to her versatility that her voice can be both hard-hitting and gutsy or lend itself to pure romance. Andrea Canter of JazzPolice.com writes, "Her vibrant swing can turn gloom into joy; her storyteller’s passion recounts love lost and found; her voice moves easily from sultry to salty to sassy.”

Stops on her West Coast tour include Tula’s in Seattle (June 25), Jazzvox Concert with Randy Halberstadt in Camano Island, WA (June 27), Rasselas Jazz Club with the David Udolf Trio in San Francisco (June 29) and on July 1st at the Crowne Plaza in the Brasserie Jazz Lounge where Linda will be joined by some of Los Angeles's premier musicians, Otmaro Ruiz (piano), John Belzaguy (bass) and Jimmy Branly (drums).

Linda’s love for Mercer songs started early on when she had to learn songs for a big band and after being introduced to the famous Mercer hit “Skylark” she was swept away because of the beauty of the lyrics. “Singers have a special gift,” said Ciofalo in a recent interview “because we get to use words along with the music. In fact, it’s our job to deliver those lyrics with emotion and sincerity.” Linda has been devoted to Mercer’s music doing programs for many years that feature the great artist’s lyrics and music. She was hoping to release this CD on his centennial but just missed it by one year. Commented Ciofalo,“It was my intent to tribute Johnny Mercer with a recording which is both romantic and moving. We hope it will make your heart feel like dancing” For more information go to, www.LindaCiofalo.com

Jaki Mathews Interviews Bradley Leighton on Jazz Workshop

Bradley Leighton can be heard today talking with Jaki Mathews on her Jazz Workshop radio show at www.fmbdmsradio.net.

Jazz Workshop regular programming airs Monday through Friday from 12 pm to 3 pm and Saturdays from 2 -5 pm EST.

Bradley Leighton Interview on The Jazz Intersection

Listen to Bradley Leighton's Interview
on The Jazz Intersection
with James Harber.

www.TheJazzIntersection.org

Check out the "Music For Life Tour" at www.BradleyLeighton.com

Interview with Tom Braxton on The Jazz Intersection

Listen to Tom Braxton's interview with James Harbor on The Jazz Intersection.

Braxton's single release, "Open Road" from Endless Highway CD official radio play date.


http://www.thejazzintersection.com

Tom Braxton "Open Road" Single Hits Radio May 31st

"Open Road" The summer single from the CD Endless Highway


"The album draws attention to Braxton's mellifluous tonality and easy flowing narrations as he displays multiple tiers to his talent as a composer, producer and arranger . . . When Braxton puts himself into his music he does so with everything he has. His jovial mood in the tracks pumps positive vibes into the listener's ears and puts one in a very bright state of being . . . Endless Highway radiates happiness in every track." - JazzTimes

"Open Road" is the perfect summer release for your vacation road trip or family get-a-way. And while you're listening you may even catch a concert as Tom Braxton hits the "open road" to perform at various venues around the country.

"Open Road" is one of the tracks from his latest release "Endless Highway" on the Pacific Coast Jazz label. Joined by an outstanding array of musicians, this recording is a toe-tapping, colorful, groove-oriented excursion with a sophisticated urban flavor that will make you feel like dancing and singing all day long.

Braxton has shared the stage with renowned artists including Dave Koz, Rick Braun, George Duke, Kirk Whalum, Jonathan Butler, Jeff Golub, Miller, Wayman Tisdale, Luther Vandross and Phillip Bailey. He has opened concerts for Norman Brown, Boney James, Najee, Dave Brubeck, Cab Calloway, Spyro Gyra, The Rippingtons, David Benoit, Pieces of a Dream, Michael Franks and The Crusaders. Braxton has been featured in media and publications such as JAZZIZ, Smooth Jazz News, CBS's The Saturday Early Show, BET's Jazz Central, TBS, TNT, ESPN, CNN, NBC's Inside Stuff and others. He recently made his first European tour in the Netherlands as an "Ambassador of Jazz" sponsored by Smooth Jazz Europe.



CURRENT PERFORMANCE DATES:
June 6 - Capital Jazz Festival - Columbia, MD
June 20 - Catalina Bar & Grill (with Keiko Matsui) - Hollywood, CA
June 22 - Wilson Creek Winery - Temecula, CA
July 7 - KJZS 92.1 FM Live Jazz Night - Orozko Lounge - Reno, NV
July 8 - Harlow's - Sacramento, CA
July 15 - Close Up 2 - Chicago, IL
Aug 21 - Spaghettini's - Seal Beach, CA
Aug 28 - Smooth Jazz at South Shore - Michigan City, IN
Sept. 25 - Smooth Contemporary Jazz Festival - Hengelo, The Netherlands
Oct. 29 - American Smooth Jazz Awards, Michigan City, IN
Jan 16-30 - The Smooth Jazz Cruise (2 weeks) - Caribbean

Bradley Leighton Adds More Cities to His "Music For Life" Tour

“You may have never heard the flute played like this until you’ve heard Bradley Leighton,” wrote Susan Frances of JazzReview.com. “He turns the flute into whatever instrument he wants it to be.”

A remarkable performer, Bradley Leighton kicks off his summer “Music For Life” tour schedule on June 5th at the Sunshine Brooks Theatre in Oceanside, CA and continues on bringing his fire and flair as one of the featured artists at the Carlyle Club for the Pacific Coast Jazz label’s All Stars Concert on June 11th. The event hosts a hot line up of musicians that include: Art Sherrod Jr, Ronny Smith, Al Williams III and a special guest appearance by Washington D.C. recording artists, Saltman Knowles. With all of these talented, swinging and funky musicians on one stage it is a guaranteed good time for all.

Then on June 13th Leighton is the featured artist at the Takoma Park Jazz Festival along with five-time Downbeat Best New Artist winner, Jeremy Pelt and the D.C. All-Stars, led by Chuck Redd. For the first time this year, the Takoma Park Jazz Festival will present a free master class with Pelt, Leighton and Redd on their respective instruments. As a Yamaha Performing Artist and flute coach, Bradley is known for his dedication to education in the arts and has developed his own workshop program, “Music For Life,” that inspires all ages to embrace the study of improvisation.

Other stops along the way are listed below. For more information about the “Music For Life Tour” go to, http://www.BradleyLeighton.com or http://www.PacificCoastJazz.com.


“Music For Life Tour” performance schedule:

June 5 – 7:30 p.m. Sunshine Brooks Theatre, Oceanside, CA, http://www.sunshinebrookstheatre.com
June 11 - 8:00 p.m. Pacific Coast Jazz All Stars Concert at The Carlyle Club, Alexandria, VA, http://www.thecarlyleclub.com
June 13 -1:00 p.m. The Takoma Park Jazz Festival, Takoma Park, MD, http://www.tpjazzfest.org/index.html
June 17 -7:30 p.m. The Greenwich, Cincinnati, OH www.the-greenwich.com
June 18 - 10:00 p.m. Wilbert's Music, Cleveland, OH, http://www.wilbertsmusic.com
June 20 -7:00 p.m. Vonn Jazz, Colombus, OH http://www.vonnjazz.com
June 22 - 7:30 p.m. Benny’s Pizza, Marysville, OH
June 23 - 7:00 p.m. Cosmopolitan Bar, Des Moines, IA
June 25 - 11:30 a.m. Ames Summer Festival, Ames, IA
June 25 - 7:00 p.m. Java Joe’s, Des Moines, IA
June 26 - 5:00 p.m. Omaha Summer Arts Festival, Omaha, NE, http://www.summerarts.org/2010prefestival/
July 16 - 7:00 p.m. Coronado Library, Coronado, CA, http://www.coronado.ca.us/
August 7 - 4:00 p.m. Gulf Coast Ethnic & Heritage Festival, Mobile, AL, http://www.gcehjazzfest.com/
September 25 - 11:30 am. Smooth Jazz & High Desert, Adelanto, CA.

Bradley Leighton Brings Fire and Flair on his Music For Life Tour

(Ojai, CA April 26, 2010) – “You may have never heard the flute played like this until you’ve heard Bradley Leighton,” wrote Susan Frances of JazzReview.com. “He turns the flute into whatever instrument he wants it to be.”

A remarkable performer, Bradley Leighton kicks off his summer “Music For Life” tour schedule with fire and flair by being one of the featured artists at the Carlyle Club for the Pacific Coast Jazz label’s All Stars Concert on June 11th. The event hosts a hot line up of musicians that include: Art Sherrod Jr, Ronny Smith, Al Williams III and a special guest appearance by Washington D.C. recording artists, Saltman Knowles. With all of these talented, swinging and funky musicians on one stage it is a guaranteed good time for all. Then on June 13th Leighton is the featured artist at the Takoma Park Jazz Festival along with five-time Downbeat Best New Artist winner, Jeremy Pelt and the D.C. All-Stars, led by Chuck Redd. For the first time this year, the Takoma Park Jazz Festival will present a free master class with Pelt, Leighton and Redd on their respective instruments.

As a Yamaha Performing Artist and flute coach, Bradley is known for his dedication to education in the arts and has developed his own workshop program, “Music For Life,” that inspires all ages to embrace the study of improvisation. Other stops along the way on the tour include the Museum of African American History in Detroit, Wilbert’s Music in Cleveland, the Omaha Summer Arts Festival in Omaha, the Coronado Library in California and the final stop on August 7th at the Gulf Coast Ethnic and Heritage Festival in Mobile, AL. For more information about the “Music For Life Tour” go to, http://www.BradleyLeighton.com or http://www.PacificCoastJazz.com.

“Music For Life Tour” performance schedule:

June 11 - 8:00 p.m. Pacific Coast Jazz All Stars Concert at The Carlyle Club, Alexandria, VA, http://www.thecarlyleclub.com
June 13 -1:00 p.m. The Takoma Park Jazz Festival, Takoma Park, MD, http://www.tpjazzfest.org/index.html
June 17 - 6:00 p.m. The Museum of African American History, Detroit, MI, http://www.maah-detroit.org/
June 18 - 10:00 p.m. Wilbert's Music, Cleveland, OH, http://www.wilbertsmusic.com/
June 20 -7:00 p.m. Vonn Jazz, Colombus, OH http://www.vonnjazz.com/
June 26 - 5:00 p.m. Omaha Summer Arts Festival, Omaha, NE, http://www.summerarts.org/2010prefestival/
July 16 - 7:00 p.m. Coronado Library, Coronado, CA, http://www.coronado.ca.us/
August 7 - 4:00 p.m. Gulf Coast Ethnic & Heritage Festival, Mobile, AL, http://www.gcehjazzfest.com/

About Bradley Leighton
Bradley Leighton has a unique and powerful sound bringing a fire and flair not usually heard nor expected from a flutist. Jim Santella of the LA Jazz Scene wrote, “he exhibits the musical virtuosity that has carried his career around the world.” His style of swing evolved from listening to the big, hi-octane bands of Kenton, Herman and Ferguson in the 60's-70's while his funkiness derives from years of listening to Tower of Power, Earth, Wind & Fire, the Brecker Brothers and countless other soul/R&B acts. With four highly respected recordings under the Pacific Coast Jazz label and numerous features on other artist’s CDs, Bradley has established himself as one of the worlds premier flute players.

His recording projects Just Doin’ Our Thang (2005,) Back To The Funk (2006) and his most recent CD, Soul Collective (2009,) were nominated “Best Jazz Album of the Year” by the San Diego Music Awards Academy and continue to receive national radio airplay and promotion. Bradley has performed across the US and internationally as both sideman and bandleader for over twenty-five years. Leighton has opened for the Greater Hartford Jazz Festival (featuring artists Joyce Cooling and Gerald Albright) and has headlined for the Gainesville Jazz Festival, Tacoma Wine and Jazz Festival, Rancho Mirage Art Affaire. He continuously performs at recognized clubs like Brooklyn Jazz Café in Dallas, Scat Jazz Lounge in Houston, Humphrey’s, Anthology and Dizzy’s in San Diego along with a multitude of clubs and festivals across the United States. This summer he’ll be performing at the Omaha Summer Arts Festival, the Takoma Park, MD Jazz Festival, Wilbert’s in Cleveland, the Museum of African American History in Detroit and The Carlyle Club in Virginia as part of his “Music For Life Tour.”

A Yamaha Performing Artist since January 2006, Leighton is dedicated to sharing his knowledge and enthusiasm of music as a clinician and educator. Besides teaching private lessons and being a flute coach at the Music Magnet School, Oak Park Elementary in San Diego, Bradley leads workshops and clinics for musicians of all skill levels, including, "Jazz Improvisation for the Classically Trained Flutist," and "Music For Life - Improvisation for the Adult Amateur Musician.” Bradley is a member of the Board of the San Diego Flute Guild and a participating member of the National Flute Association as well as the leader of the Rancho Penasquitos Flute Choir and the Penasquitos Jazz Flute Choir. He also devotes his time to performing for a number of philanthropic organizations in San Diego.

For more information: www.BradleyLeighton.com or www.PacificCoastJazz.com.

A Special Musical Tribute For Mother’s Day: From A Mother’s Heart CD

www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkIT19xTNrY

From A Mother’s Heart compilation CD has been called “a unique tribute to mothers” and “a thoughtful gift that offers more love and sentiment in eleven tracks than any greeting card.”

From A Mother’s Heart CD is rich with stories and musical imagery honoring each artist’s mother or their appreciation for mother earth through mostly original compositions. The CD includes a respected roster of musical artists like jazz icon Sheila Jordan, whose musical relationship with Charlie Parker inspired her to innovate jazz vocals and saxophonist Don Braden, who worked with jazz legendary greats such as Wynton Marsalis, Freddie Hubbard and Roy Haynes. Other artists that contributed to the project are guitarist John Stowell, vocalists Judi Silvano, Barbara Sfraga, Ellen Johnson, Ann Belmont. pianist/vocalist Mala Waldron (daughter of the late great Mal Waldron) and Peggy Duquesnel along with world music group Brasil Brazil, featuring Ana Gazzola and Sonia Santos.

The songs on this compilation are from the genres of jazz, world music, singer/songwriter, pop and there is even a guitar soundscape with poetry. From the joyous composition, "Ellie." to the intimate poem of ancient ancestors in dedication to the earth in "For My Chacoan Ancestors" the CD begins and ends with a deep understanding of the spirit of each mother's heart. Intimate ballads with tender lyrics as in "Song For My Mother", "With Every Kiss", and "You Know Me By Heart" intertwined with the humor of a mother's little girl in "Dat Dere" amidst the orchestrated and full arrangements of haunting messages in "Children's Playgrounds", Bougainvillea", “I Do Remember You” and the wordless "Song For Mother (She Is Made Of Love).” Each one has an individual message; some using lyrics while others capture the essence of their mothers through pure instrumental tones.

From A Mother’s Heart project encourages purchases through digital downloads to help promote a green environment and is available through iTunes, CDBaby and Amazon. There is a pdf download about the project that gives each artist's dedication to their mother and a printable CD cover to make a gift of the CD for your mother at: www.FromAMothersHeart.com. This is truly a one of a kind, special project to honor motherhood, women, family and mother earth,” spoke recording artist and producer Ellen Johnson, “we hope these songs will be joyfully shared with your mother or help heal the loss of your mother.”

For more information visit www.FromAMothersHeart.com or see the video on YouTube at: www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkIT19xTNrY.

All About Jazz Grand Opening Specialty Store

AllAboutJazz has partnered with Mosaic Records to launch a Jazz specialty store: shop.allaboutjazz.com.

While you have choices about where to purchase music, we do hope that you support sites that specialize in jazz. AAJ intends to earn your support at Shop.AllAboutJazz through their dedication and service to Jazz fans.

They have combed through the tens of thousands of jazz products and have picked the best available material focused on jazz. While they do have much on the site to choose from, they will be adding different labels, musicians and various products as the site evolves.

They intend to send regular updates on new product offerings, sales and other opportunities from their store, and will also highlight activities at the AllAboutJazz.com including download of the day, featured interviews and other Jazz related news.

We support and send them our congratulations!

Eclectic Jazz Quintet, The Outer Bridge Ensemble, Make Their Washington D.C. Debut At Blues Alley On March 29th

In these days of contrived and over commercialized music it’s refreshing to discover a group like The Outer Bridge Ensemble.

Known as eclectic modern creative jazz that grooves with a soulful attitude, the Outer Bridge Ensemble weaves uncommon genres together like tango, funk, klezmer, punk, avant-garde, Indian music and classical music while maintaining solid and deliberate grooves.

Individually the members of the Quintet have performed with such musical luminaries as Ray Charles, Sonny Rollins, Hank Jones, Wynton Marsalis, Kenny Wheeler, Sean Jones and Gerald Wilson. Called “an ensemble of considerable talent” by Keyboard Magazine, the ensemble performs original music with key elements from the jazz tradition highlighting diverse textures, unique instrumentation, with inventive rhythmic meters and inspiring ensemble interaction.

The Outer Bridge Ensemble is pianist/composer Steve Hudson, saxophonist Mark DeJong, bassist Pascal Niggenkemper, drummer Jerome Jennings and percussionist David Freeman.

On Monday, March 29th they will make their Washington D.C. debut at Blues Alley Jazz Supper Club located at 1073 Wisconsin Avenue, NW with two shows at 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM and tickets priced at $18.00. For more information or to reserve tickets contact (202) 337-4141 or http://www.bluesalley.com. For more information about The Outer Bridge Ensemble go to: http://www.outerbridgeensemble.net.

The Outer Bridge Ensemble was born in New Jersey in 2003 with a core group of musicians led by pianist and composer Steve Hudson, drummer Jerome Jennings, percussionist David Freeman and saxophonist Mark DeJong. This modern creative jazz group successfully weaves uncommon genres together like tango, funk, klezmer, punk, avant-garde, Indian music and classical music while maintaining solid and deliberate grooves. What really makes the Outer Bridge Ensemble a cutting edge group is the high level of musicianship combined with original music. Audiences all over the world respond enthusiastically to their unique concept of the group sound, compositions and the level of interaction within the ensemble.
Individually the members of the Quintet have performed with such musical luminaries as Ray Charles, Sonny Rollins, Hank Jones, Wynton Marsalis, Kenny Wheeler, Sean Jones and Gerald Wilson. Collectively they have opened for and collaborated with Kenny Werner, John Scofield, Steve Bernstein, James Zoller, Oscar Noriega, David Braid, Craig Brenan, Claire Daly, Achille Succi and coming in June 2010 they will open for Roy Hargrove at the Saskatchewan Jazz Festival. Featured on a regular basis in the New York City club scene, the group has toured Italy and Canada (with assistance from the Canada Council for the Arts) being featured at the Ottawa International Jazz Festival and SaskTel Saskatchewan Jazz Festival.
The Outer Bridge Ensemble has three CD’s that incorporate the core group: The Outer Bridge and Seamless (with Steve Hudson as leader) and The Unknown (with Mark DeJong as leader). Hudson's composition “Mingus Moon” from The Outer Bridge was a finalist in the 2003 International Songwriting Competition, selected among 11,000 entries and "Klezmer" from Seamless, a composition written by Freeman, was selected as a semi-finalist in the 2007 International Songwriting Competition. Steve Hudson released his own CD in 2009, Shine, which included the Outer Bridge Ensemble core group Jerome, David, Mark along with Mike Noordzy, Peter Eldridge, Oscar Noriega and James Zollar. The Unknown was nominated for Best Jazz Recording of 2008 by the Western Canadian Music Awards.

Sheila Jordan/Ellen Johnson Workshop Featured in Ventura County Star Article

Jazz Stylist To Help Singers At Workshop

by Alicia Doyle

February 17, 2010

Ventura County Star

Called one of the most consistently creative of all jazz singers, Sheila Jordan thinks of herself as a messenger of this music.

On Sunday, Jordan will be in Ventura to co-lead a three-hour workshop with Ellen Johnson, a vocalist and educator from Ojai who teaches clinics, private vocal lessons and jazz workshops.

The following Saturday, Jordan will head to the San Fernando Valley to give two performances at Vitellos in Studio City with renowned jazz musicians Alan Pasqua, Peter Erskine and Tom Warrington.

Read entire article: http://www.vcstar.com/news/2010/feb/16/jazz-stylist-to-help-singers-at-workshop/

WASHINGTON CITY PAPER REVIEW: Saltman Knowles, Yesterday's Man

Review by Michal J. West
January 27,2010


LINK: http://tinyurl.com/yd2lqgz

Yesterday’s Man is the third album by D.C.’s Saltman Knowles,the latest stop on the group’s neverending quest for melody and hooks. This time, pianist William Knowles and bassist Mark Saltman lead an unusual octet that features a steel pan drummer (Victor Provost). Adventures in instrumentation aside, Yesterday’s Man is the slickest Saltman Knowles production yet. More importantly, though, it’s a tour de force for singer Lori Williams-Chisholm, the band’s only constant besides its namesakes. As always, her joy in singing is unshakable, even on less-than-joyful tunes like “They Don’t Really Care for Us,” but her silken delivery and exceptional timing make up a lot of that ground and help convey the darker moods. Better still are her scatting and improvisations on “Blues for Sale” and “08 Bossa,” among others, where a remarkable talent for rhythmic sounds and melodic variation come through. Yesterday’s Man is a worthy document of one of the District’s most consistently high-quality ensembles.

Also: Nothing official yet, but if history is an indicator, you can expect a CD release gig or two at HR-57 in the very near future.

SALTMAN KNOWLES OFFICIAL RELEASE OF YESTERDAY'S MAN CD TODAY!

SALTMAN KNOWLES RELEASES
YESTERDAY'S MAN

TODAY!
January 26, 2010




Read official press release at: http://prlog.org/10504432


San Diego, CA – January 26, 2010 –. Bassist Mark Saltman and pianist Mark Knowles present their new CD release, Yesterday’s Man, hitting the streets on January 26th with a complimentary mix of jazz and world music. What makes this release most uniquely distinctive is Victor Provost’s soprano steel pan instrumentation laced throughout the compositions, combining elements of the traditional music of Trinidad with the intricate and melodic song craftsmanship that represents the musical style of Saltman Knowles. Vocalist Lori Williams-Chisholm returns to provide what JazzTimes calls “her exquisite wordless vocals” encased in a sultry, smooth sound. Saltman Knowles describes the story behind the new project, “Yesterday's man dressed well, and was articulate, well-educated, and less medicated. He had sophisticated tastes, integrity, and a much longer attention span, and most of all he listened to good melodic music. Yesterday’s man possessed a lot of qualities that the man of today should be striving for and some of those qualities are on this recording.”
This is their sixth CD on the heels of their critically admired release, Return Of the Composer, on the Pacific Coast Jazz Label. “We’re excited to have the opportunity to represent Saltman Knowles once again after the success of the last CD,” says Donna Nichols, founder and president of Pacific Coast Jazz. “This new disc blends the tradition of jazz, world and contemporary sounds while maintaining a high compositional level of musicianship.” Nichols’ label has teamed up with SV Media Relations for publicity and radio promoter Neal Sapper of New World ‘N Jazz for access to international media buying and radio promotion. Pacific Coast Jazz, founded in 2003, is an independent jazz label that also offers artist management services. All PCJ artists are distributed worldwide by MVD Audio/Big Daddy Music. For information on Pacific Coast Jazz, visit: www.pacificcoastjazz.com. For more information about Saltman Knowles visit: http://www.SaltmanKnowles.com. For a review copy, interviews or other media issues contact: Joy Foster, svmediarelations@gmail.com.

BLOGCRITICS REVIEW OF YESTERDAY'S MAN - SALTMAN KNOWLES

REVIEW - Saltman Knowles
Yesterday's Man
Release date - January 26, 2010

Reviewed by Kit O'Toole
Blogcritics.com

Saltman Knowles review is published and can be found at http://blogcritics.org/music/article/music-review-saltman-knowles-yesterdays-man/


Jazz combo Saltman Knowles has proven themselves a sophisticated, cohesive group that straddles the line between traditional and contemporary jazz. Their sixth release, Yesterday’s Man, further blends these genres by adding a seemingly unlikely jazz instrument: the steel drum. The result is an immensely likeable album combining world influences, vocals, and elements of traditional and modern jazz styles.

To Read the Entire Review Go To: http://blogcritics.org/music/article/music-review-saltman-knowles-yesterdays-man/

NO TREBLE WELCOMES MARK SALTMAN!

No Treble Magazine welcomes their newest columnist, bassist and composer, Mark Saltman.

Bottoms Up: Melodies in Bass
By Mark Saltman
Jaunary 17, 2010

I’m here to discuss melodies in the bass: bass lines as part of tunes and great melodies written by bass players, and maybe a few surprises thrown in. In this column I’ll be discussing one of the all time great bass players in history who also penned more than a few tunes that we should be familiar with.

To Read the Article: http://www.notreble.com/buzz/2010/01/18/bottoms-up-melodies-in-bass/

SALTMAN KNOWLES REVIEW: Yesterday's Man

NoSoloSmoothJazz.com: in Spanish
English translation through Google:
January 12, 2010
by JAVIER GARCIA ESCAMEZ

The bassist Mark Saltman and pianist William Knowles jazz up the duo known as Saltman Knowles, who also have, as usual, with the vocal contributions of singer Lori Williams-Chisholm. On the 26th of January, is now selling recording their new material which will be entitled "Yesterday's Man" and can be heard on all radio stations from 11 January. The album is released by the label Pacific Coast Jazz Records and contains a total of 10 unreleased tracks. Saltman Knowles is the leading exponent of Jazz. Without leaving the genre classic format try to upgrade to today's time and certainly will not disappoint, nor to the purist, and we like the more contemporary jazz. It should be noted that the album is very well balanced, instrumental music and vocals are practically hand in hand. A new feature to highlight in this new album of Saltman Knowles is the presence of the musician Victor Provost, an expert in handling the instrument called "Soprano Steel Pan". The first theme that opens the album bears the title "Theme In Search Of A Film" and represents the interests of the duo performing music for soundtracks. The vocalist Lori Williams-Chisholm adds a voice to songs like "Cry," "What Was I To You", "Blues For Sale", "Folk Song," "They Do not Really Care For Us," "Yesterday's Man "and" 08 Bossa ". As regards the participation musical is remarkable the presence of saxophonist Brian Settles and Antonio Parker, trumpeter Doug Pierce and drummer Jimmy "Junebug" Jackson. We can not fail to note the excellent musical contribution of the musicians invited to the album, and underlines the trumpet Doug Pierce on tracks like "Cry" or "Shesh" and Antonio Parker saxophone and Brian Settles on "What Was I To You" and "08 Bossa", respectively. As regards the composition of the themes, Mark Saltman composed "Shesh", "Blues For Sale", "Folk Song," "They Do not Really Care For Us" and "Yesterday's Man", while William Knowles is responsible for writing songs like "Theme In Search Of A Film", "Cry," "What Was I To You", "08 Bossa" and "East Orange Blues". Clearly this album up to fifty percent, a proportion that also occurs in the interpretation of the instruments they play. The album is produced by Mark Saltman and William Knowles, both musicians taking charge of the executive production of it. "Yesterday's Man" was recorded, mixed and mastered by Bob Dawson at Bias Studios in Springfield city in the U.S. state of Virginia. Ultimately, Contemporary Jazz at the highest level.

In Spanish:
El bajista Mark Saltman y el pianista William Knowles conforman el dúo jazzístico conocido como Saltman Knowles, que además cuentan, como ya viene siendo habitual, con la aportación vocal de la cantante Lori Williams-Chisholm. El día 26 de Enero se pone a la venta su nuevo material discográfico que lleva por titulo “Yesterday´s Man” y que ya se puede escuchar en todas las emisoras de radio a partir del 11 de Enero. El álbum está publicado por el sello discográfico Pacific Coast Jazz Records y contiene un total de 10 temas inéditos. Saltman Knowles son el máximo exponente del Jazz actual. Sin alejarse del formato clásico del género tratan de actualizarlo a los tiempos de hoy y desde luego no van a decepcionar, ni a los más puristas, ni a los que nos gusta el Jazz más contemporáneo. Hay que señalar que el álbum está muy bien equilibrado, música instrumental y voz van prácticamente de la mano. Una de las novedades a destacar en este nuevo trabajo discográfico de Saltman Knowles es la presencia del músico Victor Provost, un experto en el manejo del instrumento llamado “Soprano Steel Pan“. El primer tema que abre el álbum lleva por titulo “Theme In Search Of A Film” y representa el interés del dúo de realizar música para bandas sonoras. La vocalista Lori Williams-Chisholm le pone voz a temas como “Cry”, “What Was I To You”, “Blues For Sale”, “Folk Song”, “They Don´t Really Care For Us”, “Yesterday´s Man” y “08 Bossa”. Por lo que se refiere a la participación musical hay que destacar la presencia de los saxofonistas Brian Settles y Antonio Parker, el trompetista Doug Pierce y el batería Jimmy “Junebug” Jackson. No podemos dejar de señalar la excelente aportación musical de los músicos invitados al álbum, así destaca la trompeta de Doug Pierce en temas como “Cry” o “Shesh” y los saxos de Antonio Parker y Brian Settles en “What Was I To You” y “08 Bossa”, respectivamente. Por lo que respecta a la composición de los temas, Mark Saltman compone “Shesh”, “Blues For Sale”, “Folk Song”, “They Don´t Really Care For Us” y “Yesterday´s Man”, mientras que William Knowles se encarga de escribir temas como “Theme In Search Of A Film”, “Cry”, “What Was I To You”, “08 Bossa” y “East Orange Blues”. Claramente componen el álbum al cincuenta por ciento, proporción que igualmente se da en la interpretación de los intrumentos que tocan. El disco está producido por Mark Saltman y William Knowles, encargándose ambos músicos de la producción ejecutiva del mismo. “Yesterday´s Man” fue grabado, mezclado y masterizado por Bob Dawson en los Blas Studios de la ciudad de Springfield, en el norteamericano estado de Virginia. En definitiva, Jazz Contemporáneo al más alto nivel.

SALTMAN KNOWLES REVIEW: Yesterday's Man

IMPROVIJAZZATION NATION

http://zzaj.freehostia.com/Z98Reviews.htm

Saltman-Knowles - YESTERDAY'S MAN: Music from these folks is always welcomed here at IMPROVIJAZZATION NATION... we reviewed their "Return of the Composer" CD in issue #94. Knowles keyboards and Saltman's bass are just as vibrant on this new 10-song album... there are a whole host of other players here, but their other regular player is vocalist Lori Williams-Chisolm, whose vocals shine again this time. That's particularly true of her singing on tracks like "Cry"... at about 6:11 into the 7:10 piece, she rolls into a scat that's among the best I've ever heard... will bring a tear of joy (or more) to your eye, for sure. The funk-poppin' beat of the bass helps a great deal on the lead-in to "Shesh", but as always, they bring it right back to the jazz that's at the core of all their musical adventures... great piece, to be sure. Their music is all original, so there's no chance that you'll be challenged with tired covers of someone else's jazz vision... the energy is high and the talent just flows from these folks! My favorite cut was "Blues For Sale" an original from Saltman that puts that bass right out there where it belongs - driving this kickin' tune that they said (in the liner notes) has "a bit of bug juice in the percussion solo"... not sure exactly what they meant there, but this tune is superb jazz that will get your spirit movin'! Actually, though, the whole production is a winner, & I give it a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, to be sure. "EQ" (energy quotient) rating is 4.93. Get more information at www.saltmanknowles.com Rotcod Zzaj