5 Contemporary jazz guitarist, Ken Navarro displays a consistent freedom of evolution with his current project “Dreaming of Trains” (Positive Music Records) which every musician hopes to achieve with their artistry. The Grammy nominated guitarist known for his smooth jazz sound, demonstrates his flexibility as a producer, composer and virtuoso in this his 19th production - which shows his new direction. The CD is due for national release March 16th, 2010. “Dreaming of Trains” seems to be an extension of his 2008 release “The Grace of Summer Light” which both demonstrate a shift in musical execution. Prior to these two recordings, there’s a complete difference in musical offering - almost as if Mr. Navarro was content with the easy listening, smooth jazz chart positioning. He now utilizes a more expansive and expressive voice. It’s courageous and instinctual to not follow industry trends with talent such as this. Not only does he exhibit his mastery of electric and acoustic guitar, mandolin, banjo, keyboards and percussion, the CD is produced, recorded, mixed, and mastered by Navarro who provides a collection of genuine compositions that tell stories and give rise to imagination and thought - much like the song cycles of past romantic composers. Movement is the order of the day with this recording - no groove is stabilized and just about every key is modulated. "Dreaming of Trains" begins with little regard for the journey ahead initiated with an abrupt prologue called “Dream So Real” – where just as dreams segue through thought patterns - so does the music on this recording. Navarro adheres to a musical concept of storytelling supported by a contemporary jazz platform structured by preface, chapters and conclusion. Two of the selections “True Stories” and “Dreaming of Trains” are suites onto themselves that can be imagined as fully orchestrated pieces. The composition “Shared Air” maintains a sustained ostinato-like rhythmic pattern surrounded by Navarro’s layers of guitar textures giving the feeling of traveling a road of sameness, but yet reaching a destination none-the-less. A favorite is “The Stars, The Snow and The Fire”, which offer a wonderful ethereal jazz-fusion feel. However the CD is not completely devoid of funk, or what Navarro is known for in tunes such as "The Buzz" - with its fuzz pedal virtuosity, and the switch of gears in “Everything Being Is Dancing” - where he serves up a combination of fine rhythmic guitar/bass funk and fusion supported by his expert ensemble. Speaking of which, much can be said for the familiar musicians he enlists for this recording. Joel Rosenblatt, drummer (Spyro Gyro, Manhattan Transfer); Tom Kennedy, bass (Al DiMeola, Dave Weckl); Jay Rowe, acoustic piano and keyboards; and Ann Sacks (vocals), all assist in making this dream odyssey a success. Navarro closes with Erik Satie’s "Gymnopédie No.1 " accompanied by pianist Jay Rowe, which due to its final placement might have been crisper if recorded in an acoustic hall setting. In any event, Ken Navarro takes no prisoners with this heartfelt project and vies for possible award nominations this year. Whether you’re listening at home or traveling via air, automobile, or railway, "Dreaming of Trains" is worth the journey. . true 22801 2010-03-07T22:46:51-05:00 25849 true 20 2010-03-07T22:46:51-05:00 2010-03-07T22:46:51-05:00 CD Review: Guitarist, Ken Navarro

Contemporary Jazz Guitarist Ken Navarro releases his 19th CD "Dreaming of Trains" .

2010-03-07T22:46:51-05:00

5 Her voice is beautiful in its simplicity and clarity , The Diva can croon a ballad and articulate in a unique way. If you don’t know Rose Bilal this is an excellent place to start your familiarization……. SR: When did your interest in music begin? RB: Music has always been in my life. My parents played the music of all the big bands on the radio and I’d use my make believe microphone to imitate the singers I heard. SR: What vocalists, jazz or otherwise influence your growing up? RB: There were so many of them I stop counting. There was Bessie Smith, Billie Holiday, Cleo Lane, Ernestine Anderson, Ella, Sarah, etc. Whenever I try picking a favorite I’m always blown away by the next captivating voice. SR: In your opinion, what is the most difficult challenge that musicians face today? RB: I think the challenge for us is to keep on believing that people still appreciate- and will pay-to hear live music. Technology has made it harder for musicians to practice their craft and making it even more difficult is a slowed economy, but venues do exist where the healing effects of live music is still in demand. If we can’t find them, Let’s create them ! SR: What makes you want to sing jazz ? RB: That’s a good question because jazz wasn’t the music that held my attention. I loved Rhythm and Blues, it wasn’t until I heard a beautiful love ballad, I don’t remember the title being sung by jazz vocalist Carmen McRae and listening to the depth of her voice how she clearly pronounced every word of the song that I believed inspired me to want to touch others in that way. SR: What are your thoughts on vocal improvisation? RB: As a vocalist I try to stick with songs I feel fits my style of singing. I haven’t had the privilege of being formally trained in voice, and I’m not very strong with scat-ting so mostly I sing songs that speaks to things people identify with in everyday life, or songs that have touched me in a certain way. SR: What was it like singing with the Super groups. Such as The O’jays, the Delphonics, Wilson Pickett, Chubby Checker, and Gladys Knight and the Pips? RB: First, let me say I didn’t actually sing with any of those groups but was the opening act for them as well as other well known entertainers of the 1960’s. The group I sang with was called Philadelphia, and we were managed by George Woods. He was a popular radio personality back then who had booking connections to five star night clubs from New York to California. It was an unforgettable experience for me and a pleasure to have met and shared the stage with such huge personalities. SR: Finish this sentence when I am not singing you can find me…………………………. RB: Working on the next event for my non-for-profit organization Jazztorian, Inc. Such as Women of Jazz III, coming to The Palladium theatre on Saturday, March 20, 2010 or in my studio painting or sculpting. Then there’s acting in one play or another , or working on my second book and then I get to have a day to rest. SR: What advice would you give a new vocalist coming into the music industry? RB: I strive hard to be on time to gigs, have knowledge of what’s expected from a performance and being prepared by knowing the songs I want to sing and the keys I sing them in. That always saves time for the musicians and will also aid in developing a respectful relationship between me and them assuring a fun-filled night and a successful show. SR: Your surety of tone and intimate style of delivery is exceptional and inviting.. What do you base it on? RB: I’m not sure, I think it comes from listening to all the great legends and trying to understand what they’re conveying in the way they’re feeling the music because I want to bring those same feelings to my music. SR: Has it been a struggle in your opinion for many women in jazz? Have you ever felt as if you should have chosen another career? RB: I think women have always had to struggle in any profession dominated by men, but in most cases talent won out and a way was made. The struggle for equality and sign of the times for women who sang back in 1920’s. 30’s and 40’s - especially African American women no doubt made it much more difficult for a woman to be taken seriously as a singer. I never wanted to sing and wouldn’t have chosen singing as a profession because of the deep fear I had of being out in front of people, but when my mother discovered I could hold a tune she immediately put me in the church choir: The rest is history ! And now I wouldn’t change a thing. SR: Are you working on any projects right now? RB: Yes, as I mentioned earlier Jazztorian, Inc. in collaboration with the Al Downing Tampa Bay Jazz association and the Palladium theatre will present phase III of the Women of Jazz on Saturday, March 20, 2010. For further info on that and other upcoming events please check our website, Jazztorianinc.com or contact me at 813-221-3088. SR: Can you tell us a little more about the Women of Jazz III concert? RB: I’m excited about our upcoming Women of Jazz concert and of the fantastic line-up we have with Sue Terry and Peggy Stern, Saxophonist and Pianist out of New York, and of course we’re fortunate to have our very own, well known Theo Valentine. In addition I’m looking forward to working for the first time with great Tampa Bay area jazz musicians Patty Sanphy, on guitar, Anne Van Atta , on bass and Sandi Grecco, on drums. This show is a must see !!! Thank you very much Rose and I agree this show is one that should not be missed. Samantha true 22620 2010-03-07T19:20:45-05:00 25848 true 123 2010-03-07T19:20:45-05:00 2010-03-07T19:20:45-05:00

Her voice is beautiful in its simplicity and clarity, The Diva can croon a ballad and articulate in a unique way. if you don't know Rose Bilal this is an excellent place to start your familiarization.

2010-03-07T19:27:10-05:00

5 Gadson, one of our favorite drummers. Ever. Ever ever ever. Have you heard that beat on Bill Withers’ ‘Use Me’? Or that Jackson 5 track ‘Dancing Machine’? No? How about that little song ‘I Will Survive’? Dude has played on OVER 300 GOLD RECORDS. James Gadson plays on three new cuts from Tony Adamo's new CD(out May 2010). www.strokeland.com true 17915 2010-03-06T19:45:44-05:00 25808 true 123 2010-03-06T19:45:44-05:00 2010-03-06T19:45:44-05:00

Gadson, one of our favorite drummers. Ever. Ever ever ever. Have you heard that beat on Bill Withers’ ‘Use Me’? Or that Jackson 5 track ‘Dancing Machine’? No? How about that little song ‘I Will Survive’? Dude has played on OVER 300 GOLD RECORDS. James Gadson plays on three new cuts from Tony Adamo's new CD(out May 2010). www.strokeland.com

2010-03-06T19:45:44-05:00

5 SR: What is your earliest musical memory? PS: I remember sitting beside my teacher Louise Greenfield(Sarasota), while she played some beautiful music for me; we both so enjoyed her `tour` of the repertoire, that it fired my young imagination. SR: Who were your early influences and which of the piano greats do you admire most? PS: I was influenced by all the great composers, from Bach, Beethoven, Mozart, thru Ravel, Faure, and Stravinsky. Then I switched to jazz, via McCoy Tyner, Keith Jarrett, Chick Corea, and Horace Silver. SR: How would you describe the relationship with your instrument? PS: Love, hate, I am so picky about the sound I am making, that I get very unhappy if I can’t extract the right timbre-but, when I do, I am in love also, the fact that the piano is always waiting for me, has put pressure on every moment in my life that I am NOT sitting at it!- great question! SR: I really enjoy the freshness of your tunes, how do you approach composition? PS: It’s like going fishing, I play free at the instrument, until a germ of an idea strikes my fancy, I play with it for awhile, write it down ( with pencil and paper, remember those?), and leave it alone. If it plays in my ear I go about other business, I know I’ve got something worth pursuing, and then starts the hard work of crafting a tune that suits me, as well as an improv section worth playing on. SR: What constitutes a good live performance in your opinion? PS: Heartfelt, good concentration, not projecting too much in to the audience, but making myself available as a vessel through which the music can flow. Honestly. SR: What’s your approach to performing on stage? PS: Some quiet time, plenty of sleep, a good game plan, and healthy case of nerves, all necessary to adrenalin flow. SR: Through your career you stretched both as a composer and a pianist in various settings, and genres beyond the trends. Describe the balance between emotions and technology when you make music? PS: I have noticed that my trajectory was always very very individual-that could come from when I entered “Jazz”- I came into it as an answer to playing the music of other composers, which I had done all my life hitherto-so, my Trend was my own, and I do believe there are as many individual voices as there are people on the planet; it is always a choice whether to imitate or chart new waters…My compositions reflect what I have heard and loved in my life, but I have always felt the uniqueness of my contribution, never on purpose, just simply what was given to me to do this time around! SR: The CD “The Estrella Trio” was well received with a blending of authentic Latin and Brazilian music, describe the approach you took when putting the CD together.. My favorites are Bonobon, and Lemon Merengue. PS: I have played a lot of salsa and Brazilian music in my life, it comes very easily to me, and people love it, so it was a no-brainer to have this approach for a trio CD; what I love about it, is that we managed to make it dance with just three of us playing-no horns, or voices. Fun! Bonobon is a cumbia, and Lemon Merengue is a …merengue ! Both traditional Cuban dances. SR: I saw a video on you-tube with you playing Bava di Lumaca, it was absolutely awesome, please tell me how did this come about ? And where can we get the album or single? PS: I don’t think I ever released Bava di Lumaca ( which means snail trail, by the way!)-it was composed while traveling in Italy on tour with my Italian trio. Someone in the car said ,Bava di Lumaca , and I opened my Italian/English dictionary-the definition was Snail Slime, which cracked us all up, because none of us could say it in English, it sounded so funny! SR: Throughout your career you have performed with many musicians, Can you tell us about some of the things you’ve done? ST: I’ve performed with Lee Konitz, Diane Schuur, David “ Fathead” Newman, Jay Clayton, Gary Peacock, Gene Bertoneini, Bud Shank, Red Hollaway, Thomas Chapin, Machito, Puck Fair to name a few. SR: You are scheduled to perform with Sue Terry in March at the Palladium in Saint Petersburg, Florida, I know you have played on a couple of concerts before, what are/was the most memorable moment for your on-stage performance together? PS: Sue and I have a wonderful chemistry together, our music is very organized but very free, with lots of room for improvising. We also share a sense of history and humor, and get to laughing together and with the audience, its very fun and very musical and instructional. Playing with a sister is an excellent way to spend an evening! SR: What else can we expect from Peggy Stern? PS: I am writing for larger ensembles; that’s where the technology comes in-I write for jazz choir, woodwind quintet, for brass quintet, for mixed orchestra-all of which is made very much easier with the midi program I use for arranging. The composition is till coming from my heart through the piano to pencil and paper, but the arranging is done on the computer. What an interesting world we live in; the compositions will be available on my site as well as new recordings, for download. For those of you in Tampa that might also be in Sarasota that weekend, we are performing at The Raquet Club in The Landings with my teacher , Louise Greenfield on Friday night, March 19th, at 7 PM. The concert is to honor her especially. She is 92 years young, am amazing person and musician. Thank you very much Peggy for the interview and I am looking forward to seeing you in the Women of Jazz III concert, Saturday, March 20, 2010 at the Palladium in St. Petersburg , Fl. This is going to be a night of great jazz featuring “Sweet” Sue Terry, on sax, Peggy Stern, on piano, plus vocalists Rose Bilal and Theo Valentine, Anne Van Atta, bass, Sandi Grecco, drums and Patty Sanphy, guitar. Produced by the Palladium at St. Petersburg college, the Al Downing Tampa Bay Jazz Association and Jazztorian. For ticket information contact the Palladium at 727-822-3590 true 22620 2010-03-02T21:15:44-05:00 25799 true 123 2010-03-02T21:15:44-05:00 2010-03-02T21:15:44-05:00

luminous Lyricism...the piano more caressed then played....with sublety, nuance, warmth, effortless swing, beauty of line and sophistication of harmony and dynamics........Sydney morning Herald

2010-03-02T21:57:47-05:00

5 SR: Tell us your earliest memory of jazz? St: My dad’s record collection. He had a lot of classic sides like Modern Jazz Quartet, J.J. Johnson, Billy Taylor and many many more. SR: Of the living greats who would you most like to play with and why? Same question for anyone you didn’t get to play with that is no longer with us. St: I would like to play with Hermeto Pascoal and Yo YO Ma, I wish I could have played with Astor Piazzolia and Miles Davis SR: What is the driving force behind your creativity as a musician? St: I hear beautiful sounds all around me and I want to make beautiful sounds too. SR: What was it about jazz/improvised music that attracted you to it? St: I first really listened to jazz when I was around 12- I didn’t understand how it worked but I loved the beat. SR: Since jazz has evolved into various stages and genres, what is the most radical transition it has taken and what impact do you feel it had on jazz? St: The bebop era was very significant, it expanded the jazz universe by extending the harmonic possibilities. Then Trane came along and found another modal dimension that we hadn’t known about. Then a couple of other spokes shot out from the hub: the pioneering work of Miles with his electronics groups, and movement to fuse other musics with jazz like Brazillian, Afro Cuban, Tango, etc. Jazz ia alive and well! I am in the midst of writing a book that explains Jazz music to listeners-stay tuned! SR: If you could attend one event in jazz history, where would that be? St: How about, Duke Ellington at the Cote D’Azur , or Astor Piazzola Central Park concert or Miles at the Blackhawk! SR: Gilly’s caper CD was a treat from start to finish, I especially enjoyed Gilly’s Caper single for its straight forward delivery, and the rich sound of your voice in the “ Feel of Blues” I understand there is a story behind Gilly’s caper, would you share this with us? ST: It’s about Gilly’s mission to track down the infamous “Seal of Solomon” and deliver it to The Commanders . You can hear the story on http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/sweetsueterry2 Listeners can hear samples of every song. If you click on “album notes” you can read the beginning of the story. Each song on the CD appears somewhere in the story, with the exception of one song, which is hidden on purpose. SR: You are both composer and musician , describe the balance between both of them when making music. ST: Since improvisation is “spontaneous composition”, and any improvising musician is also a composer. I find the process of creating formal composition on paper, however, also makes me the better spontaneous composer. SR: Can you explain the difference between West Coast Jazz and the jazz that emanated from NY? ST: Life on the West Coast has never been as frantic as that on the East Coast, and that is reflected in its music. SR: You and Peggy Stern have performed on several occasions together and will perform again in March at the Palladium Theatre in Saint Petersburg, Fl. Tell us one of the memorable moments you have on stage together. ST: Every time we play together it’s amazing. We have an incredible musical rapport. We are both familiar with the formal traditions of not only Jazz but also classical music; we both played a lot of Latin music, and we both dig free improvisation. We have a great time playing together and we respect each other’s musicianship. The audience seems to enjoy the fact that we are relaxed on stage, and endlessly creative. We also laugh a lot, musically speaking . What’s not to like ? SR: What else can we expect from Sue Terry? ST: My next two recording projects will be very different from what I’ve done so far: a recording of solo wood and clay flutes called “ Music for Tai Chi”’ and an album of keyboard music of mine that is spontaneously composed. As far as my book: the book I mentioned previously about how to listen and dig jazz will be out this year, as well as “ Greatest Hits of The Blog That Ate Brooklyn”, due out in April. I also write a regular online newsletter that covers all sorts of interesting subjects ! People can subscribe for free, and read all the archives, at http://sueterry.net/news.html SR: What advice would you give a young aspiring musician coming into the music industry ? ST: Study business and marketing. Stay ahead of the curve. Be true to yourself. Thank you Sue for the interview and I look forward to seeing and hearing you at the Women of Jazz III concert on March 20, 2010 at the Palladium Theatre in Saint Petersburg, fl. A night of great jazz featuring “ Sweet "Sue Terry, on sax, Peggy Stern, on piano, plus vocalists Rose Bilal and Theo Valentine, Anne Van Atta, bass, Sandi Grecco, drums and Patty Sanphy, guitar. Produced by the Palladium at Saint Petersburg college, the Al Downing Tampa Jazz Association and Jazztorian. For ticket information contact the Palladium at 727-822-3590 This is a concert you don't want to miss ! true 22620 2010-03-02T20:36:18-05:00 25798 true 123 2010-03-02T20:36:18-05:00 2010-03-02T20:36:18-05:00

"This incredible artist wails out her soul to any and all who would hear....as in, you know, really listen. This is playing where the music breathes as alive with breath as any vocalist can give you, even the best of them."........Michael Redmond

2010-03-02T20:41:55-05:00

5 Jazz-lovers and sun-seekers across the nation are getting ready to “shake off those winter blues” --- with a remedy of white sands, beautiful water, and a dose of the best in smooth contemporary jazz. The coastal beach setting of Panama City Beach will “come alive” for the 2010 ResortQuest Seabreeze Jazz Festival, April 15th-18th at the Pier Park Amphitheater. Celebrating its 12th year on Florida’s Northwest Gulf Coast, the event will provide an oasis for music lovers and a beach getaway for the entire family. Known as the ULTIMATE weekend in smooth – The ResortQuest Seabreeze Jazz Festival has become synonymous with “fun in the sun” and top-notched national contemporary jazz entertainment, all inside the backdrop of beautiful white-sand beaches, emerald green waters, with an abundance of activities for just about every taste in beautiful Panama City Beach, Florida. Named as one of the "Top 10 Jazz Festivals in the USA" by JazzIZ Magazine, The Seabreeze Jazz Festival marks its second year moving east from Destin to the vibrant new location of Pier Park in Panama City Beach. The combination of beautiful beaches, great shopping and dining at adjacent Pier Park, easy-access to an abundant offering of hotels and condos, coupled with a “killer list” of the top names in contemporary jazz—make Panama City Beach the place to be! And this year… the “vibe” is hot! Almost as hot as the music is “cool”! Artists scheduled to perform each year include the “Who’s Who” of contemporary jazz, and this year is no exception. The 2010 event will be hosted by contemporary jazz guitarist Nick Colionne. Set to perform throughout the weekend include smooth jazz “supergroup” Fourplay and exciting R&B funk/jazz band Tower of Power-- sure to get the audience up on their feet! Other artists performing include The Sax Pack featuring Jeff Kashiwa, Kim Waters, and Steve Cole…. Rick Braun and Richard Elliot also known as “R n R”, Nick Colionne, Euge Groove, Marc Antoine, Brian Simpson, Alex Bugnon, Shilts, Jackeim Joyner, Oli Silk, Jessy J, Steve Oliver, Drew Davidsen, Ken Ford, Gerald Veasley, Joey Sommervile, Matt Marshak, BK Jackson, RomanStreet, and Jones and Company. On Friday evening, an All-Star Jam Show will include a tribute to the late Wayman Tisdale, famed jazz bass player and basketball player who performed at the event last year. The weekend of smooth jazz will kick off on Thursday, April 15th at 7pm with the annual Smooth Jazz Dinner Cruise sponsored by ResortQuest. Sailing from the beautiful Baytowne Wharf Marina at Sandestin Resort, the entertainment yacht “Solaris” will cruise the scenic Choctawhatchee Bay as attendees enjoy a full seated dinner, festive fun, and smooth jazz. This magical evening concludes of with an intimate live smooth jazz performance on the Sky Deck by keyboardist Brian Simpson and French flamenco guitarist Marc Antone. All attendees on the cruise will then attend a personal Meet and Greet with both artists for a “unique” up-close experience. Tickets for the Smooth Jazz Dinner Cruise hosted are limited at $135 each. On Friday, April 16th the action turns to the greens of the Colony Golf Club in Panama City Beach as the Seabreeze Jazz Festival Golf Tournament swings out as this year’s new event! Set among the semi-private, 18 hole par 72 Championship Course just minutes from Pier Park, the tournament action is open to all with a 8am Shotgun Start. The course has been described in national golf publications as among one of Florida’s most enjoyable yet challenging tracks. Attendees will enjoy a day of golf, a delicious lunch, presentation of prizes, and a live performance from saxophonist Jeff Kashiwa as an added treat. Get a “JAZZY” start to the jazz festival weekend with exhilarating morning of golf and an intimate jazz performance. Tickets are $110 per person and space is limited. For golf tournament registration or information, call Colony Club at 1-850-234-1800. Meet the STARS OF SMOOTH JAZZ and get a FREE sneak peek of the festival show at Borders Books at Pier Park Friday at 3pm. Reminiscent of a Hollywood CD Release Party and Meet and Greet, this is an excellent opportunity to get up close and personal with the artists performing throughout the weekend. Mingle with the jazz artists, purchase their latest cds, and of course get autographs galore! Each artist will perform a short preview of their material for the audience, and admission is free. Bring your camera. Space is limited so get there early. The excitement shifts to the stage at Pier Park on Friday April 16th beginning at 6pm … with the official kickoff of the event. The crowd will first be treated to jazzy acoustic guitar fusion from Mobile, Alabama based RomanStreet, followed by the #1 Contemporary Jazz ranked Sax Pack, featuring sax trio Jeff Kashiwa, Kim Waters, and Steve Cole. The evening will conclude with the Seabreeze Jazz Festival All-Star Jam Show hosted by smooth jazz guitarist Nick Colionne. Loved by fans as both a unique element of the jazz festival, the All-Star Jam will feature a montage of national talent as special smooth jazz guests will join on the stage for a "once-in-a-lifetime jazz jam like no other”. First introduced in 2008, the All Star Jam creates the fun and FUNK of impromptu jazz performances that many audiences rarely see is concert-style performances. Jazz artists get to “let their hair down” and “rip loose” with the uptempo riffs, funky bass lines, and the crowd-energizing beat of beats! As a special edition to 2010, the All Star Jam Show will include a special tribute to the late Wayman Tisdale. Renowned jazz bass player and pro-basketball player, Wayman performed to a standing ovation crowd at the 2009 Seabreeze Jazz Festival and was one of his last live performances before his timeless passing early summer of 2009. His music and spirit will be celebrated on stage as we remember “the man with the big smile”. Friday evening concludes at 11pm with a cool “Chill Out” After-Party at Reggae J’s at Pier Park. British smooth jazz keyboardist Oli Silk, London-based saxman Shilts, and guitarist Matt Marshak will keep the cool grooves and jazzy vibes going into the late night hours at this intimate “Jazz Club” setting, complete with appetizers and a cash bar. The ResortQuest Seabreeze Jazz Festival will continue all day Saturday and Sunday April 17th-18th with performances from 10am to 10pm on Saturday and 10am-9pm on Sunday. The gates open each day at 9am. How does one spell “funky”? The answer is clear to see in Saturday’s impressive lineup of top talent with a few surprises. Heads will turn with 18 year old sax sensation from Florida State University BK Jackson takes the stage and electrifies the audience. #1 selling guitarist Drew Davidsen, a huge hit at the Catalina Jazz Festival in California follows as he makes his Seabreeze Jazz Festival debut. And who says “jazz” is only limited to the sax, guitar, or keyboards? Atlanta electric jazz violinist Ken Ford will prove that notion wrong with his upbeat performance of funky smooth jazz and R&B grooves as another exciting newcomer for 2010. The afternoon continues with smooth jazz hitmakers Rick Bruan and Richard Elliot together for some “R n R” – short for Rick and Richard but long for high energy, jaw-dropping Top 5 charting contemporary jazz hits that span the past three decades. Festival host guitarist Nick Colionne performs as well– known in the music business as “The Windy Cat” for his home base of Chicago and his jazzy guitar grooves. Nick Colionne too has enjoyed big success on smooth jazz radio as one of the top-selling jazz guitarists of 2008 and 2009. On top of being a talented artist, he’s actually funny on stage as well. As Saturday’s sun sets on the Pier Park Amphitheater, the mood will IGNITE as legendary funk, jazz, soul, and R&B band Tower of Power performs for the first time on the Northwest Florida Gulf Coast. Since 1968, Tower of Power has delivered their unique brand of music to their fans, appearing before sold out crowds as they tour the world each year. Tower of Power’s rhythm section lays “down a groove” like no other band. The band’s horn-driven sound is unique and when combined with the outstanding lead vocalist, the final result is one of the most dynamic shows to ever hit the stage. Tower of Power is known to many … as THE BAND. With high energy horns, funky rhythms, and soulful vocals – the Seabreeze Jazz Festival will feel “the power” of The Tower. The action moves from the stage at Pier Park to the “club scene” just steps away at Pier Park at 10:30pm as Saturday evening concludes with a cool “Smooth Jazz” After-Party at Reggae J’s at Pier Park. The Sax Pack featuring Jeff Kashiwa, Kim Waters, and Steve Cole perform with special guests in a swanky yet smooth upbeat “Jazz Club” party scene. The smooth jazz will blend with the warm seabreeze off of the Gulf across Panama City Beach into the early morning hours. On Sunday, April 18th the music continues with a unique blend of style, tempo, and talent. Destin based jazz and vocal group Jones and Company will begin the day with their own hits and the best of Motown, pop, and R & B. The “Seabreeze Groove Project” will again debut a “new sound” on stage – as each year the band’s configuration changes to reflect a fresh new take on groove riffs, moving bass lines, and jazz licks. This year’s “Groove Project” includes swiss-born keyboardist Alex Bugnon, bassist Gerald Veasley, former Down To the Bone saxman Shilts, and jazz guitarist Matt Marshak. Guitarist Steve Oliver brings his unique style of rhythmic and breezy jazz to the stage…and his vocal scats and unbelievable guitar talent will WOW the most demanding music fan. New and upcoming talent is always part of the jazz festival formula, and Jackiem Joyner, Jessy J, and Oli Silk will show the audience why they are the hottest new artists in the contemporary jazz format today. Saxophonist Euge Groove will take to the stage performing his montage of uptempo hits. The grand finale of the weekend will be the first-time appearance of Fourplay…set to headline the festival Sunday night at 7pm. Known as a smooth jazz “supergroup”, Fourplay consists of Bob James, Nathan East, Harvey Mason, and their newest member, multi-faceted virtuoso guitarist Chuck Leob. The Seabreeze Jazz Festival will be the first live performance to include Chuck Loeb to the world. For nearly two decades, the contemporary jazz quartet has enjoyed commercial success by grafting elements of R & B, pop, and a variety of other sounds to their unwavering jazz foundations. In the course of ten recordings over the last 20 years, Fourplay was named “Top 20 Smooth Jazz Artists of the Decade” by Billboard Magazine. The Seabreeze Jazz Festival itself has become a phenomenon. Beginning in 1999 at Seaside with just a handful of participants, the event now has grown to attract over 5000 jazz attendees per day from all over the United States, Canada, Europe, and South America. Many come just for the music, while others enjoy the beautiful beaches, upscale shopping, and fine dining the local area has to offer. The Seabreeze Jazz Festival has been recognized as one of the top jazz festivals in the country, as well as "Best Event" and "Best Place To Be Seen" by the readers of Emerald Coast Magazine. Tickets are on sale online and by phone. A Weekend Pass is $130 per person and includes all performances at the Pier Park Amphitheater Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. Individual single-day tickets are on sale at $80 each. Tickets for the Smooth Jazz Dinner Cruise are separate at $135 each including dinner and show. After-Party Tickets are $55 each. For the ultimate jazz festival experience, VIP Corporate Tables for 10 are available for $5000 each for the weekend including all VIP catering and benefits. VIP Corporate Tables provide the best concert experience, located directly in front of the stage so attendees can take in the smooth jazz excitement. VIP Corporate Tables includes separate VIP Parking and entrance, early festival entry, full catering including breakfast, lunch, and snack for the weekend …and beverages (beer, wine, and soft drinks). VIP Ticket holders also get to Meet and Greet with the artists inside the VIP Tent after each performance. Order tickets online at www.seabreezejazzfestival.net or by phone at 800-595-4849. Purchase tickets in person at Borders Books and Music at Pier Park, Playground Music Center in Ft. Walton Beach, and Kitchenique in Destin at City Market next to Destiny. Small coolers are welcome inside the venue but no alcohol please. Cash bar and food vendors available at the event. General Admission ticketholders bring a lawn chair or blanket. Children 12 and under are admitted to the Friday-Sunday festival at no charge with paying adult. Chair rentals will be available at the entrance gate and can be pre-ordered online or by phone. Parking available onsite at Pier Park. For more information, call 850-267-3279 or go online to seabreezejazzfestival.net. Presented by WSBZ 106.3 -- the Seabreeze. Sponsors include ResortQuest, The Panama City Beach Visitors and Convention Bureau, Pier Park/Simon, Smooth Jazz dot Com, Creative Gems of Panama City, Borders Books and Music, The Talking Phone Book, and Smooth Lounge dot com. About WSBZ-FM 106.3 -- The Emerald Coast’s exclusive smooth jazz radio station, WSBZ celebrates its 15th year on the air broadcasting from Destin with the area’s most unique format. As presenting host and founder of the Seabreeze Jazz Festival, WSBZ Radio features celebrity hosts including Kenny G, Ramsey Lewis, and Dave Koz in their weekly program schedule. WSBZ was nominated twice as 2006 and 2007 Smooth Jazz Radio Station of the Year by Radio and Records/Billboard Magazine. WSBZ 106.3-the Seabreeze also is streaming live on the internet at www.wsbz.com and www.seabreezejazzfestival.com. Owned and operated by Carter Broadcasting, Incorporated, WSBZ Radio is family-owned by Mark and Renee’ Carter of Santa Rosa Beach, Fl. About Panama City Beach Panama City Beach boasts 27 miles of sugar-white sand beaches bordering the clear, emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico and St. Andrews Bay. The Northwest Florida community is home to St. Andrew’s State Park, a Top Two beach on the 2008 TripAdvisor list of America's best beaches. Panama City Beach also enjoys recognition as a premier beach destination by Conde Nast Traveler, The Travel Channel, USA Today, Southern Living, Dr. Beach and the Clean Beaches Council. Family attractions, championship golf courses, sporting events, award-winning dining, predictably sunny weather and a vast number of recreational activities draw visitors to this seaside community. For more information, call 1-800-PCBEACH (850-233-6503) or check out the official Web site of the Panama City Beach Convention and Visitors Bureau, http://www.visitpanamacitybeach.com About Pier Park Located in the heart of town across from the City Pier, the new Pier Park spans roughly 1 million square feet, making it Northwest Florida's largest shopping/dining/ entertainment venue. This open-air complex houses restaurants and stores comprising a colorful mix of popular national chains and favorite local boutiques and eateries. The Pier Park lineup includes: Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville, Dillard's, Borders, JCPenney, Ron Jon Surf Shop, Candymaker Candy Stores, Massage Envy, Panera Bread, The Back Porch restaurant, Hofbrau Beer Garden, Ann Taylor Loft, Chico's, ULTA Beauty and more. Plus, the Grand 16 Theatre -- a 16-screen, 3,000-seat movie theater complex – shows the latest blockbusters. You can now follow the destination on Twitter.com, at PCBeach, to receive up-to-the-minute news and details on special offers and deals. true 22601 2010-03-02T12:17:20-05:00 25797 true 123 2010-03-02T12:17:20-05:00 2010-03-02T12:17:20-05:00 White Sands, Beautiful Water, and Smooth Jazz Return for 12th Season

2010 Seabreeze Jazz Festival returns to the Pier Park Amphitheater in Panama City Beach feauring Fourplay, Tower of Power, The Sax Pack, Nick Colionne, Euge Groove, Rick Braun, Richard Elliot, Steve Oliver, Brian Simpson, Marc Antoine, Shilts, Jessy J, Alex Bugnon, Oli Silk, Drew Davidsen, and more

2010-03-02T12:17:20-05:00

5 Incognito is far more than just a band. The sound visionary Jean-Paul "Bluey" Maunick has been pioneering in the mercurial acid jazz scene, and as a talent factory, Incognito has rolled out the red carpet for vocal prodigies, such as Jocelyn Brown and the best musicians from the British groove community. Short-lived musical trends have done nothing to damage the popularity of this multi-cultural band with their driving rhythms and elegant melodies and they have become a trademark all over the world, especially live. In this vein, "Bluey" Maunick celebrated Incognito's 30th birthday on stage at the London INDIGO2 with a thrilling concert in summer 2009. It was a fantastic night: with their blend of soul and jazz, funk and fusion almost 30 musicians, with several surprise guest appearances, electrified the audience. Thanks to the contagious energy and the virtuoso solo numbers, each song became something special. And as if this band hadn't given us enough variety already, the strings of the Millennia Ensemble provided a delightful additional interplay of sound. Incognito didn't just celebrate 30 years of first-rate music and continued success with this performance - they also gave their fans an unforgettable gift. DVD 1: 01 Talkin' Loud 02 Step Aside 03 When The Sun Comes Down 04 Jacob's Ladder 05 Centre Of The Sun 06 Get Into My Groove 07 Labour Of Love 08Ain't No Mountain 09 Always There 10 Colibri 11 N.O.T. 12 This Thing Called Love DVD 2: 01 Still A Friend Of Mine 02 Can't Get You Out Of My Head 03 Deep Waters 04 Wild And Beautiful 05 Morning Sun 06 Expresso Madureira 07 Don't You Worry 'Bout A Thing 08 Reach Out 09 Everyday 10 I Hear Your Name 11 Nights Over Egypt Bonus: • Backstage Impressions • Interview with Bluey Hi Res Cover Art: http://files.dvdnote.com/images/300dpi/INAK6184-1DVD.jpg Direct Link to Purchase:http://www.seeofsound.com/p.php?s=INAK6184-1DVD true 22371 2010-03-01T14:17:54-05:00 25795 true 123 2010-03-01T14:17:54-05:00 2010-03-01T14:17:54-05:00

Inakustik and MVD Visual are proud to announce the DVD, Blu-ray, and CD release of Incognito "Live In London - The 30th Anniversary Concert" on April 20, 2010.

2010-03-01T14:17:54-05:00

5 Cool Mood Now is a soothing meditational, CD, About living in the Now, A work of 50 years of learning, not only Chords and scales, and rhythms, but the finding of tranquility . and learning to live in the Now. true 22516 2010-02-27T02:01:06-05:00 25792 true 123 2010-02-27T02:01:06-05:00 2010-02-27T02:01:06-05:00 Cool Mood Now

Music to sooth the soul

2010-03-01T13:08:32-05:00

5 Positive Listening Radio Just finished an awesome interview with Strokeland Records smooth and soulful Tony Roc Adamo. It will air on New Music Monday in March when we premier his remakes of two of TOP's finest tunes, featuring Doc Kupka on Bari sax. We'll keep you posted on the broadcast date, so check back often. Official Tower of Power FA...N Page Stephen "Doc" Kupka - The Bari Sax player from Tower of Power!See Morewww.positivelistening.com www.positivelistening www.strokeland.com true 17915 2010-02-26T23:00:54-05:00 25791 true 123 2010-02-26T23:00:54-05:00 2010-02-26T23:00:54-05:00

Positive Listening Radio Just finished an awesome interview with Strokeland Records smooth and soulful Tony Roc Adamo. It will air on New Music Monday in March when we premier his remakes of two of TOP's finest tunes, featuring Doc Kupka on Bari sax. We'll keep you posted on the broadcast date, so check back often. Official Tower of Power FA...N Page Stephen "Doc" Kupka - The Bari Sax player from Tower of Power!See Morewww.positivelistening.com www.positivelistening www.strokeland.com

2010-02-26T23:00:54-05:00

5 February 23, 2010 was a night to remember and Platinum Grille was in for a performance that only Lynn Riley could deliver. It was cold and wet but the music made up for the miserable weather. Platinum Grille is located at 7719 Crittenden Street (Market Square Shopping Centre); Philadelphia, PA 19118; 215-247-2312. The event was presented by the Chestnut Hill Jazz Society. As expected, Lynn Riley and The World Mix band played cuts from the “Too Cool” album and music from other artists. Lynn Riley on saxophone, Rubin Edwards on bass guitar, Harry 'Butch' Reed on drums and Aaron Graves on keyboard made up the foursome. The nuances of a live performance are what bring authenticity to the artist’s music. In person, you can hear the unique stamp on each song. Here is a sampling of what was played that night. “Missing You” from the “Too Cool” album already has an island influence with an undercurrent of seductiveness. Primarily, the saxophone is heard on the album but live was the keyboard along with the sax. Tonight’s rendition had a pronounced exotic introduction that continued subtly to the end. From current to this Rhythm and Blues classic was Bill Withers’ “Ain’t No Sunshine” from his “Just As I Am” album (released in 1971). The Dynamic Duo (Lynn and Rubin) joined forces and rendered this song unrecognizable from the original. They were taking turns (and sometimes simultaneously) mesmerizing the audience. This was a scorcher of a rendition as the sun rose and set with a quiet ending. Stevie Wonder’s “Golden Lady” from his “Innervisions” album (released in 1973) never had this much heat. Lynn poured her heart and soul into every note. Instead of mellow Lynn put another face on this classic by funking it out 2010 style. The keyboard was played in grand fashion and took you on a rollercoaster of ups and downs. It was ‘swunky’ - swanky and funky. The pièce de resistance was “The Chicken” composed by ‘Pee Wee’ Alfred Ellis from the Maceo Parker’s “Mo Roots” album (released in 1991) and made famous by Jaco Pastorius. Brassy, horny and groovy were some words that came to mind when listening to this composition. There was nothing held back as she played. It rivaled the original and required every ounce of energy one could muster. The band [and Lynn] was up for the challenge and it was spectacular. The keyboard had overtones of Jimmy Hendrix and the sax could have been part of a cut from “Fred Wesley & the Horny Horns”. A performance that compared to an emery board – one side smooth and the other side rough. Lynn really got down and funky tonight. She played with just the right amount of attitude and grittiness that left the audience wanting more. “Too Cool” and the other classics played against each other with an angst that worked. Why wait for a live performance when you can purchase the “Too Cool” album at http://www.lynnriley.com/. true 21424 2010-02-26T03:50:38-05:00 25790 true 123 2010-02-26T03:50:38-05:00 2010-02-26T03:50:38-05:00

Lynn Riley and the World Mix band played an all out performance to an appreciative audience. The compositions played were a compilation of cuts from the debuted “Too Cool” album and other classic music from R&B to Jazz.

2010-03-09T03:56:47-05:00