Rachel & The Ruckus was born in the Rocky Mountains of Boulder,
Colorado, bringing a blend of killer Pop music infused with Blues &
Rock to the Colorado music scene. Singer/keyboard player Rachel Alena
and guitarist Alec Sims met in 2010 while sharing the stage with the
popular Front Range band Girls On Top!, and formed the band shortly
thereafter. Drummer Kyle Comerford joined in 2012. Bassist Vince
Carmellini (a.k.a Big Nasty) and sax player/flutist Max Reed joined to
round out the group in 2013. The band has since earned lots of positive attention from music lovers,
bringing their vast musical influences and experience together to create
compelling Pop music with Soul. It’s the sound of the blend of powerful
lyrics, Rachel’s enchanting voice and a band with rocking,
in-the-pocket grooves.The band has since earned lots of positive attention from music lovers,
bringing their vast musical influences and experience together to create
compelling Pop music with Soul. It’s the sound of the blend of powerful
lyrics, Rachel’s enchanting voice and a band with rocking,
in-the-pocket grooves.
RACHEL & THE RUCKUS
The Soggy Po' Boys were born on Mardi Gras, 2012. Makes perfect sense given their name, and the fact that they’re a New Orleans flavored octet.Residing in Seacoast, New Hampshire, the Po’ Boys have been honing their craft every Tuesday night, first at the late Barley Pub, and now at Sonny’s Tavern – both in the band’s hometown of Dover. Much in the spirit of the great residency that exists at New Orleans’ own Spotted Cat Music Club where the legendary Vipers have thrown down on every Monday for the past god-knows-how-long, the Po’ Boys are steeped in tradition while in search of creating tradition all their own.With a repertoire of New Orleans standards, spirituals, contemporary music, and swing tunes, the Po’ Boys offer a lively blend of fun and insanity. Sure, it’s served messy, but at the heart of the mess is a sincerity for sprightly composed tunes that are accessible to absolutely anyone that hears it. New Orleans music is supposed to be messy. It’s supposed to be steeped in feeling. When you feel music, you find the real beauty behind what makes music so mesmerizingly addicting. That’s exactly what the Po’ Boys are producing. Their music is enduring. It’s infectious. It’s inviting. It’s irresistible. Don’t let their birthplace fool you. The beauty of New Orleans music is that it’s celebrated and appreciated everywhere. From the street corner, to the communing pub, to the theater. The Po’ Boys are doing their part to spread the tasteful soundtrack of the greatest music on the planet from their roost in the Northeast and while out on the road touring the country. SOGGY PO' BOYS
North
American singer/songwriter and guitarist Sally Station created Xumapaz
as a melting pot for her own musical experiences and those of the
musicians she has collaborated with in the US, Colombia, France and the
UK. The resulting “global soul” is peppered with performances by a
wonderfully eclectic group of musicians who wrap Station’s words and
music in deliciously diverse grooves to sweetly penetrate the hearts and
souls of listeners.The sparse solo and acoustic trio performances
on UK-produced 6 Outta Sunderland were captured while Sally was writing
and performing between Paris and London and the stateside recording
Chicago Reel is a celebration of Sally’s return to the US after more
than 10 years abroad. The songs on the latest CD, Xumapaz, recorded in
Colombia where Sally has lived off and on since she was 16, feature
Afro-Latin rhythms laid down by renowned Colombian percussionist and
perennial Xumapaz collaborator Luis Pacheco and guest pianist/arranger
Michel Haase. Other veteranos del sabor invited to the party include
Cuban bassist Diego Valdés, Colombian vibraphonist Jorge Emilio Fadul
and American jazz pianist Eugene Uman. The thread running through all
of these productions, however, are the warm and direct lead vocals –
whether in English, Spanish or French, and Sally’s unique and undeniably
feminine point of view.Xumapaz has performed at the Jazz al Parque
and Rock al Parque festivals in Colombia, at Miles of Music and Summer
Fest in Chicago, at Glastonbury and the Fringe festivals in the UK and
Printemps de Bourgs and l’Estival in France, as a 10-piece super-group
and in solo and acoustic trio formations allowing for more intimate
contact with the audience. XUMAPAZ
Doug has been crafting his songwriting skills since the late 60's. Many bands and recordings later, 2013 saw the release of his 3rd solo effort, Blues in the Key of Sea. This new release features Billy Payne from Little Feat. This CD features what has become the core band, with special guests, including Mike Wesolowski (Blues World Order) on blues harp, Danny Gotham on mandolin, Johnny Gallagher (Ireland) on electric guitars, and Tony Bowman on keys (Edgar Winter Band) as well as engineering/co-production. Tom Maxwell (Squirrel Nut Zippers) also contributes on production. The 11 songs on this release are all over the map stylistically, yet form a cohesive Blues/Rock/Americana blend, with truth and heart at the core. One of the common threads throughout Doug's recordings have been his musical connection with Tommy Hartley, a guitar virtuoso who permeates the music. DOUG PRESCOTT BAND
Open Road is a band comprised entirely of lead singers, strong
instrumentalists, daring soloists, and creative entertainers. Drummer
Paul Pierce and saxophonist Kenneth Rice began working together in San
Diego. As Motown, Soul and R&B performers, Kenny and Paul began the
journey which has become Open Road.The addition of San Clemente Guitarist Buddy Mercer, son of Vaudevillian
Bud Mercer, added an important element to Open Road; the ability to
switch musical gears in an instant from soulful blues ballads to high
energy rock and roll classics to George Benson-flavored jazz hitsHolding down the bottom on bass guitar is Tony Isabel. With his funky
bass lines, clean, clear vocals and powerful stage presence “Anthony
Wayne” is the driving force behind the grooves that have become
signature Open Road favorites. Their second guitarist, Tommy Matranga, rounds out Open Road. Tommy
grew up in the Pomona, California area and worked with the likes of
Tommy Lee and Vince Neil of Motley Crue before directing his attention
to his own original music projects. OPEN ROAD THE BAND
Although Meshell Ndegeocello scored a few hits early in her career, the
bassist, singer, and songwriter later opted to concentrate on more
challenging material by exploring the politics of race and sex, among
other topics. From her 1993 Maverick label debut through her releases of
the 2010s for Naïve, she built a discography of recordings that defied
classification through progressive mixtures of jazz, R&B, hip-hop,
and rock. Initially held in regard primarily for her bass playing and
bold lyrics, her songwriting, which often examined dark interpersonal
issues, was just as exceptional.Michelle Lynn Johnson, born on August 29, 1968, spent the first few
years of her life in Germany. Her father was both a military man and a
jazz saxophonist. She relocated with her family to Virginia in the early
'70s. As a youngster, Johnson developed an interest in music; during
her teenage years, she began to play regularly in the clubs of
Washington, D.C., but eventually settled down in New York City after a
stint of studying music at Howard University. By this point, she was
going by Me'Shell NdegéOcello — her adopted last name Swahili for "free
like a bird." After auditioning for several bands, including Living
Colour, NdegéOcello struck out on her own and often performed solo with
just a bass, drum machine, and keyboard. In the early '90s, she was one
of the first artists signed to Madonna's Warner-affiliated Maverick
label.NdegéOcello's debut album, 1993's Plantation Lullabies, was produced
with David Gamson, as well as with André Betts and Bob Power, and
involved input from a wide range of musicians, including DJ Premier,
Joshua Redman, Bill Summers, Wah-Wah Watson, and David Fiuczynski. An
impressive first album, it spawned the hit "If That's Your Boyfriend (He
Wasn't Last Night)" and received three Grammy nominations. A duet with
John Mellencamp on a cover of Van Morrison's "Wild Night," released a
year later, brought her more mainstream attention; it peaked at number
three on the Billboard Hot 100. MESHELL NDEGEOCELLO
Philip Maurice started his musical journey early in life, being taught
to sing by his mother when he was four years old. He later developed a
love for percussion, and eventually played in a jazz quintet at 13 years
of age.
By the time Philip entered college, his musical taste and desire
shifted towards contemporary jazz and classical music. Philip also
discovered that the acoustic piano made a statement in the pieces that
won his heart. He soon experienced a transformation causing his ear to
be tuned to a menagerie of ideas, styles, and compositions.
Philip Maurice believes making "Life Music" is one of the purposes
for his life on the earth. Many have described the musical renditions of
Philip Maurice as soothing, stress-relieving, atmosphere- changing
experiences. These musical experiences are carefully crafted and
designed to take you on a journey of relaxation. Many have commented
that they are the perfect companion for driving! PHILIP MAURICE
Multi - faceted performer Holly Burke is "an orginal voice and she makes
the flute shout and weep" Gabriel Hasselbach #1 Smooth Jazz Award
Winner 2011. Holly Burke has a Bachelor's Degree in Music and Theatre
and a teaching credential from Cambridge University. Holly's credits
include an International Broadcast Award from the Hollywood Radio and
Television Society. She has performed on CBC TV and radio, NPR, CITR
and at the San Diego Jazz Festival and the Vancouver Du Maurier Jazz
Festival. She has many VO and TV credits including Special Unit 2, Cold
Squad V1, The Dead Zone, and It's a Girl Thing, with Mia Farrow. Holly
has recorded on over twenty five projects including working with Terry
and Scott Jacks, Linton Garner and Clark Burroughs. Holly has recently
released her own CD "Nature Girl" which was conceived during a 6 month
sojurn in the Costa Rican rainforest where she gained a new appreciation
for nature and all its wonders. Holly & her band The Naturals bring
depth, wonder and fireworks to every performance. Don’t be surprised if
you find yourself singing and dancing.
HOLLY BURKE
Keepin’ It Going is Ken Husbands’ third release as a leader and the
second with this group, featuring Aaron Germain on bass and Otto Huber
on drums. It moves fluidly from the funk inflected opening track to the
fast samba of the closer, passing through swing, odd metered grooves,
African influences and out-and-out fusion on the way. This group has
been working together in the San Francisco Bay area for several years
and they have developed a cohesive ensemble approach. The original
compositions are formally rigorous while leaving room for each of the
musicians to display team-oriented virtuosity. Contemporary influences
such as John Scofield and Wayne Krantz can be heard in Husbands’ guitar
playing, and the title track evokes the world fusion of Weather Report,
but this trio has its own sound and compositional approach that
incorporates a wide range of musical styles, integrating odd time
signatures and complex harmonies seamlessly into energetic grooves. KEN HUSBANDS
Nat Birchall is one of the UK’s most special musicians, a spiritual,
soulful saxophonist who has drunk deeply from the endless well that is
the music of John Coltrane. A modest man, Birchall is happy out of the
limelight but nonetheless has found international acclaim for a series
of fine albums on Matthew Halsall’s Gondwana label as well as more
recently his own Sound Soul and Spirit imprint. This,
his sixth album, is his first ever live recording and is released on
vinyl and download only. A decision Birchall took on listening to the
tapes and thinking the music really suited the warmth of vinyl. It
features the core band from his last recording World Without Form:
pianist Adam Fairhall, vibist Corey Mwamba, bassist Nick Blacka (GoGo
Penguin) and drummer Paul Hession. They all bring something to the music
as Birchall explains: “Adam has been in the band since the beginning
and he's there because he understands the music and plays with
conviction. Corey is in the band because of his unique approach to
playing, it doesn't actually matter that he plays vibes. I asked him to
play because of his playing, not his instrument. He is a free spirit but
knows when to play and when not to play. Nick is a great bassist who
has a great ability to improvise strong melodic lines within his
accompaniment, which is actually pretty rare. Paul is a very great
drummer who can play seamlessly throughout a piece if it goes from
"time" to free tempo and back again, and makes it sound natural”. The
recording came about when Birchall played two nights at the Duende Jazz
Bar in Larissa, Greece in May 2013 – where, despite the tiny stage, the
warm welcome and overwhelmingly positive reaction to the music inspired
the band to reach deep within themselves for two nights of truly
inspired music. Thankfully the tapes were rolling and despite the tiny
stage and proximity of the mics (a nightmare for mixing) the music was
really happening. As Birchall recalls: “There was such a positive
atmosphere at the gigs, with people so obviously coming to hear the
music with open arms ( and ears ) that we felt very blessed to be on
stage. I think the record documents how the band sounds on a given
night, with original songs, and one or two by other people, played in an
extended way. With everyone able to stretch out and play as long as they like”. NAT BIRCHALL QUINTET
Beat Funktion was born in 2007 in the Swedish town of Uppsala, just
north of Stockholm, as a temporary five-piece constellation for a number
of spontaneous club gigs where traditional jazz music was needed for a
young dancing audience. To shape the band's repertoire of old jazz
standards, pianist Daniel Lantz took the liberty of borrowing
inspiration from musicians and bands within groove-based genres in the
70s and late 60s, such as James Brown, Bob James, Eumir Deodato, Herbie
Hancock, Roy Ayers, Fela Kuti, Curtis Mayfield, Lonnie Liston Smith,
Jimi Hendrix, Miles Davis, Cannonball Adderley and others, not to
mention film music by composers like Lalo Schifrin and Bill Conti. This
resulted in a series of original arrangements of jazz standards
tailor-made for the band, which utilized the stable, dance-friendly and
lush-sounding framework of pumping disco funk and R&B paired with
the rhythmic and harmonic freedom of jazz improvisation. It became an
immediate success with audiences, and accordingly, the very special
jazz-funk sound of the band was born.After a number of overwhelmingly successful performances, enjoyed by
listeners as well as dancers, the band became a permanent working unit
and since 2008 it is an impressive six-piece-band consisting of Karl
Olandersson on the trumpet, Olle Thunström on the tenor sax, Johan Öijen
on the electric guitar, Daniel Lantz on the Fender Rhodes, Pal Johnson
on the electric bass and Jon Eriksson on the drums. Although keeping a
few classic funk cover tunes as part of the repertoire, pianist Daniel
Lantz nowadays provides the band with new, groovy original music in the
vintage 70s vein. Additional musicians like percussionists and vocalists
occasionally join the band for more powerful live performances.In the autumn of 2010, Beat Funktion released their debut-album THE
PLUNGE for Do Music Records, a production that has culled takes together
from multiple previous studio and live recordings to form a whole. On
the album, the sound of the band is enhanced with percussion, live
acoustic strings, vocals and Moog synthesizers. It features a majority
of Lantz' own compositions, plus a funk version of George Gershwin's
classic jazz standard ”Summertime”. The disc has received praise
worldwide with agents and reviewers of jazz, funk, soul and rare
grooves, not to mention DJs. The band is currently scheduling their fourth album, MANDY'S SECRET, to
be released in August of 2014, which will be co-produced by Daniel Lantz
and pianist and producer Mats Björke from famed rock band Mando Diao. BEAT FUNKTION
NYConnection
The always
imaginative saxophonist Jussi Kannaste accompanies the quartet as if he
is the piano player. Pianist Roy Assaf often doesn’t play chords, but
instead uses his melodic gift to create a dialogue with drummer Jaska
Lukkarinen, who adds multiple colors in addition to his already
extraordinary rhythmic approach. The band courageously explores this
instrumentation, playing solo, duos, trios and full quartet with bassist
Antti Lötjönen, who brings it all together in a unison sound full of
melodies, dialogues and stories. Never having experienced
this kind of natural freedom of music in any other group, the members of
NYConnection decided to start a fresh concept that benefits the music
and brings a new sound to the audience. When the new songs were first played in public, some people referred to their music as “folk jazz.” The
compositions have the intellectuality, harmonies, and swing flavors
that originate from the jazz tradition, combined with the simplicity and
lyricism of the folk world. Picture four artists who work
on the same canvas and paint the most simple and beautiful Finnish
landscape in its midsummer peace. Each one of the painters has a
slightly different artistic view of colors, lights and landscape.
NYConnection paints this picture with compositions, in which interplay
and listening connects the worlds and visions together.The
origins of NYConnection, as the band’s name implies, date back to New
York City in 2007, where Roy and Jaska shared some of their most
influential moments as young musicians. The foundation for the group is
drummer Jaska Lukkarinen's Finnish trio, which includes Jussi Kannaste
and Antti Lötjönen. This is a trio that has worked together since 2005
and has created a personal band sound without a harmonic instrument.Their
new album Urban Griot introduces the band members as composers and
instrumentalists, today's jazz-griots. Griots were West African poets
and storytellers and were known for their ability to picture current
events and improvise based on traditional songs. The original songs on
Urban Griot are based on experiences and stories that the four share
together. The songs are mixed with a menu-like concept. The original
music serves as main courses, and it is mixed with great jazz standards
that serve as the tasty appetizers.The bond between Roy and
Jaska, both on and off the stage, keeps NYConnection evolving as a true
band, not just another music project. Having the four of them together
is meant to be. Urban Griot is the start of a life long journey to be
explored, developed and shared with the audience. NY CONNECTION
The British band Mighty Mighty developed a larger following in Japan
than they did in their native country. However, the group's Japanese fan
base evolved posthumously; the band was actually only active for a few
years. Mighty Mighty was formed in Birmingham, England, in 1986 by Hugh
Harkin (vocals, harmonica), Mick Geoghegan (guitar), Peter Geoghegan
(organ, guitar), Russell Burton (bass), and David Hennessey (drums).
They made their debut at the NME/ICA Rock Week concerts and were even
included on a C-86 cassette compilation. Mighty Mighty released their
first single, "Everybody Knows the Monkey," in 1986. Often compared to
Orange Juice, Mighty Mighty only recorded one LP, 1988's Sharks, before
splitting up. The band's jangly singles and B-sides were collected on
The Girlie Years, the title referring to the name of the group's own
label. Vinyl Japan also released Mighty Mighty's BBC sessions in 2001.
The band's popularity in Japan resulted from a keen interest in U.K.
guitar pop among indie collectors. MIGHTY MIGHTY
Alex Puddu, was born in Rome, Italy, in 1967 but moved to Denmark at the age of 19 and quickly established his reputation as a musician in a number of indie rock bands. he Recorded he's first E.P with the band Excess Bleeding Heart" followed with The album "Libido".In the early 1995 he formed the Band "Nerve" with he's mate Morten Varano and 3 members of the band Sandman .They got sign with EMI and release one EP and the Album Speeed Freak Jive. Nerve got along by touring in DK and even a opening support show for David Bowie i Valby Hall.In 1997, The Band spilt up ,Alex Puddu and Morten Varano founded the groundbreaking electronica duo Puddu Varano and released three albums and a number of singles before splitting up in 2002.Today Alex puddu is one of the most direct and creative artist and composer of our days, truly devoted to the italian vintage sound of the giallo/horror movies from the early seventies. Alex take inspiration for his writing from the soundtracks music maestro Piccioni,umiliani,morricone,ferrio,demasi.Alex puddu release is first solo album 'Chasing The Scorpions Tail' with his cinematik band Alex Puddu and the Butterfly Collectors on the danish label April records followed later on with fouralbums.During the latest years 2010/11 Alex is been very productive working on new sounds and composotions for soundtracks writing arranging and producing no more less then 4 soundtrack.The Eastern Army,Mosaic,Hell is other people and the latest The Golden Age of Danish Pornography. ALEX PUDDU
Cherrywood Records is proud to announce the release of LIVE at the
Gallery the latest recording from critically acclaimed jazz saxophonist,
composer and arranger Elias Haslanger.
A follow up to the Elias’s successful 2012 release Church on Monday,
LIVE at the Gallery captures 2 nights in front of a packed house at
Austin’s famous Continental Club Gallery on S Congress. Featuring
long-time musical director for Ray Charles, Dr. James Polk on Hammond B3
organ as well as former Joey DeFrancesco band-mate Jake Langley on
guitar, the band delivers a classic live jazz recording with an energy
and enthusiasm that electrifies the audience. Building on their 17 month
weekly residency at the club, where the crowds have grown as has the
band’s intensity, Elias and company play inspired, no doubt driven by
their passionate listeners, many of whom show up week after week to get
recharged by the music.
Church on Monday, as the band and the Monday night residency is now
called in Austin, started off 2014 by playing Alejandro Escovedo’s
acclaimed United Sounds of Austin show produced at the ACL Moody
Theater. The band shared the bill with Joe Ely, Lucinda Williams and
others and “brought down the house” says Rolling Stone in their review
of the show. Elias was profiled in the June 2013 issue of Downbeat for
Church on Monday and the band’s first CD spent 11 weeks on the JazzWeek
radio charts, climbing to #14 at its peak.
Elias Haslanger has played and recorded with Ellis Marsalis, Maynard
Ferguson, The Temptations, Asleep at the Wheel, Alejandro Escovedo and
countless others. He has released 5 critically-acclaimed recordings as a
leader which have been played on radio stations around the world and
reviewed favorably in DownBeat, JazzTimes, Billboard, Cadence, Texas
Monthly and the Austin Chronicle. He is an active performer performing
over 150 shows a year at venues across the United States.
“Haslanger is now a major talent, both as a composer and instrumentalist
whose future has almost unlimited potential and should be regarded in
national terms.” -Michael Point, DownBeat. ELIAS HASLANGER
Washington DC-based jazz vocalist LOIDE (pronounced "loy-deh') has roots
in Mozambique and Guinea-Bissau though born in France and raised in
California. Serving up a mix of contemporary jazz and warm
afro-lusophone rhythms, Loide's music is reflective of her own eclectic
roots. She has spent the last 10 years honing her musical craft in some
of the nation's hippest speakeasies and jazz clubs at night.Within the last few years alone Loide has had the privilege to perform
in Hollywood for a star-studded televised event, open for the legendary
Hugh Masekela and Oliver Mtukudzi, and perform at a Miriam Makeba
tribute in New York on the same stage as Paul Simon, release the self
titled album "Loide, Live at Bohemian Caverns" and most recently be
taped for an one hour live special on The Africa Channel.Loide cites Sarah Vaughn, Cesaria Evora and Miriam Makeba as some of her
greatest musical influences, but believes it is her African heritage
that has provided her with a fresh musical perspective, a unique sound,
and her native tongue. LOIDE
As a classical clarinetist, Hideaki Aomori has recorded two classical albums as the Pierce-Aomori duo,is a member of y Music,
and has worked with the Philip Glass Ensemble, Kennedy Center Opera
Orchestra, The Knights, choreographer Benjamin Millepied, and ACME
(American Contemporary Music Ensemble). As a
multi-instrumentalist, Hideaki mostly works in jazz, indie, theater, and
film music. Some of his recent activities include recording his jazz
album, Glue (tenor sax, clarinet) , a tour with Gabriel Kahane (clarinets), playing Ghost the Musical (saxes, clarinets, flute, piccolo) and performing Schonberg's Pierrot Lunaire and Messiaen's End of Time Quartet with ACME. Hideaki has conducted masterclasses and individual lessons at
universities and schools in the US and abroad.When he is not touring,
Hideaki can be heard playing Matilda on broadway. Hideaki did his bachelor's and doctoral degrees in clarinet performance and his master's degree in jazz saxophone. HIDEAKI AOMORI
Frank Harrison took up the piano at 11, and
began playing gigs when he was 15. After taking up a scholarship at
Berklee School Of Music, Boston, he returned to the UK and joined Gilad
Atzmon’s band. In 2000 they started the Orient House Ensemble, with whom
Frank has recorded seven albums, including BBC Jazz Album Of The Year
2003, Exile. The band regularly tours Europe, playing at major Jazz and
World music festivals. Frank has also performed with Peter King, Julian
Arguelles, Julian Siegel, Don Weller, Alan Barnes, John Etheridge, Louis
Stewart and Iain Ballamy.In 2006 Frank formed a trio with drummer Stephen Keogh and bassist
Aidan O’Donnell. Their debut album, First Light, launched to critical
acclaim and they have since toured regularly in Europe and the Far East,
as well as collaborating with special guests such as Louis Stewart and
Tina May. Frank's new trio features Dave Whitford on bass and Enzo Zirilli on drums. FRANK HARRISON TRIO
Cincinnati-born Phil Cody, a longtime California resident, produces a
smart, raw folk-rock blend that calls to mind Peter Case and Pete Droge.
He released his debut album, The Sons of Intemperance Offering, in 1996
on Interscope Records. Most of the project was recorded live in the
studio. In the years after its release, he hit the road, sharing the
stage with artists such as Steve Earle, Golden Smog, Warren Zevon, and
Jimmie Dale Gilmore. Cody was still on Interscope when he made 2000's
Big Slow Mover, a compelling folk-rock/country amalgam full of sonic
touches such as funk grooves and loops. It was co-produced by Ethan
Johns and the Wallflowers' Rami Jaffe and featured guest appearances by
Joe Henry and Emmylou Harris (on a great version of Townes Van Zandt's
"If I Needed You"). However, the growing, changing label passed on it;
so armed with a new Mac computer and a strong unreleased album, Cody
went D.I.Y., starting his own label, Tiny Head Records. PHIL CODY
Chris Carroll is a New York City-based drummer, who has amassed a vast musical vocabulary. Stylistically, his drumming pulses with cross-cultural rhythms. With roots deep in rock music and a love for jazz & improvised music, Chris is known for performing music that is simple in form to extremely complex. His awareness of musical dynamics supports the artist’s ability; he or she can be reticent, or, in the alternative, explosive and an all-out powerhouse. Drawing from a diverse pool of musical and spiritual influences, Chris blends his curiosity for different cultures with an eye (and ear) towards the future.Recently, Chris released, “Current Shifts,” which is his second CD as a leader. This jazz-based project is driven by influences ranging from South American traditional music to music originating from Mid-Eastern cultures. “Current Shifts” is a bold followup to Chris’ first album, “Facing Away,” which features his own idiosyncratic arrangements of the music of a number of jazz icons, such as Ornette Coleman, Thelonious Monk and Charles Mingus.Chris’ is also in demand as a sideman, having recorded with Nat Janoff, Bryan Murray and Justin Flynn . He plays regularly with many of New York’s finest musicians, including Rez Abbasi, Donny McCaslin, Francois Moutin, Ben Monder, Brad Shepik, Ron Affif, Paul Bollenback, Hans Glawischnig, Alex Blake, Pedro Giraudo, Jay Azzolina, Matt Penman, George Colligan, Felix Pastorius, Ben Street, Drew Gress, Vic Juris and Sam Blais, while touring internationally. CHRIS CARROLL
A native of the South Bronx, RAY VEGA is a veteran of the bands of Tito
Puente, Ray Barretto, Mongo Santamaria, Mario Bauza, Luis "Perico"
Ortiz, Hector LaVoe, Johnny Pacheco, Larry Harlow, Pete "El Conde"
Rodriguez and Louie Ramirez to name a few. Ray has performed and/or
recorded with Joe Henderson, Lionel Hampton, Mel Torme, Paquito
D’Rivera, Arturo Sandoval, The Spanish Harlem Orchestra, Steve Turre,
Israel Lopez "Cachao", Las Leyendas De La Fania, Pete Escovedo, The
Chico O’Farrill Afro-Cuban Jazz Orchestra, Jazz at Lincoln Center Afro
Latin Jazz Orchestra, Paul Simon, John Santos and The Machete Ensemble,
Jose Jose, Sheila E., Yomo Toro, Anna Saeki, Frank Foster's Loud
Minority Big Band, Diane Schuur, The Mike Stewart Big Band, Michel
Camilo, Kirk Franklin, The Bob Belden Big Band, Dave Samuels and The
Caribbean Jazz Project, Marco Antonio Muñiz, Jeanie Bryson, Eddie
Palmieri, James "Jabbo" Ware and The Me, We and Them Orchestra, La
Orquesta Sinfonica De Simon Bolivar, Sandro De Las Americas, The Mingus
Big Band, The Duke Ellington Orchestra, The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra,
Bebo Valdez, and Celia Cruz, among numerous others. Ray currently works
with the renowned Comtemporary Classical composer Osvaldo Golijov,
performing first and solo trumpet in the critically acclaimed work; "La
Pasion Segun San Marco".Ray has now established himself as one
of the innovators of the international Jazz and Latin music scenes. A
multi-talented trumpeter, percussionist, composer, and arranger, he
presents Jazz from a refreshingly original and contemporary perspective.
His two recordings on the Concord Picante label, his self-titled debut
"Ray Vega", and "Boperation", along with his 1st release on the Palmetto
label "Pa'lante"have been well received by critics, audiences and
musicians alike. Vega's 2nd Palmetto CD "Squeeze, Squeeze" has also
received critical acclaim including Four Stars in Down Beat Magazine.Vega's
latest CD is "East-West Trumpet Summit" is a collaboration with Seattle
trumpeter Thomas Marriott. The CD was released in the summer of 2010 on
Origin Records and has hit number 1 on the Jazzweek national radio Jazz
charts during the week of June 21, 2010.Vega grew up immersed
in the heart of two vibrant New York City music scenes: Jazz and Salsa.
In addition to learning about these two musical styles with some of the
great legends, he received his formal training studying trumpet with
Sydney Baker, Henry Nowak, Mike Lawrence, Stan Shafran, Laurie Frink,
Richard Brezowski and Jerry Gonzalez. He studied Jazz harmony and
improvisation with Susan Winder, Bobby Rogovin and Lonnie Hillyer. Vega
studied Afro-Caribbean percussion with Luis Bauzo. Vega attended The
Long Island University Brooklyn Center and is a graduate of the
legendary High School of Music and Art. RAY VEGA
Sam Rucker’s unique musical recipe is not just heard, but felt. This
former hip-hop producer has developed a sound that is leaving a unique
fingerprint on modern jazz. His new project, Tell You Something, is
music for the soul. “Awesome... worth every penny of the ticket!"
claimed one audience member after a recent Sam Rucker performance in
Norfolk, Virginia –because Sam Rucker is using the saxophone to blow a
breath of fresh air into contemporary jazz. On Tell You Something, Sam
teams up with legendary producer Norman Connors, renowned pianist Bobby
Lyle, sax great Euge Groove, Tom Browne, Alyson Williams, and a host of
other great musicians. Tell You Something features three soulful covers
and eight of Sam’s original songs that not only entertain but encourage
as well. This is contemporary jazz music with a message. Even as an
instrumentalist, Sam’s music speaks to the listener and conveys an
infectious positive energy.
“Sam Rucker has a genuine connection with the music and the
audience. He plays with a passion that draws you in” – Norman Connors.
As a saxophonist, Sam has performed with a multitude of renowned
artists including Peter White, Euge Groove, Norman Connors, Cindy
Bradley, Tom Browne, Ronnie Laws, Gerald Veasley, Phil Perry, Alyson
Williams, and Ivan Neville. Playing with various groups, Sam has opened
for Will Downing, Norman Brown, Eric Benet, Ben Tankard, Black Sheep,
Candi Staton, Ron Kenoly and more; he can also boast of three winning
solo performances at the Apollo Theater in Harlem, New York. Sam's
talents are not limited to the saxophone. He has produced and written
CDs for several artists, including gospel rapper Israel the Warrior,
singer Tonya Smith-Williams and spoken word artists Slim and Blizz.
Sam's first CD, entitled Heat from the Heavens, gives us
an introduction to the formula of hip-hop grooves + jazz melodies + a
splash of inspirational lyrics that so characterizes Sam as a player and
person. The formula promises creativity and unique expression that will
leave Sam Rucker’s imprint on contemporary jazz. SAM RUCKER
Pastors are raving about the music ministry of Sam Powell:"Sam
has a gift from God of letting his humanity deliver the message – and it
does. It’s not an act, it’s a testimony of Grace driven faith and
praise."Sam Powell's concert was a true worship experience! He was
genuinely praising the Lord and not putting on a show. I found his music
both biblical and inspirational. He sings truth about God, salvation
and the Christian life."Sam is the whole package. He brings to your
ministry his talents and his testimony. His musical ability is so vast
and so diversified, I had to ask myself is there any instrument he
doesn't play? I marveled at the message in his faith-filled music all
the while clothed in the purest of humility.""Sam's spiritual
giftedness is to use music as an avenue of praise and proclamation of
the truth of God. The overall effect is edification, encouragement and
evangelism through the Word in song.""What a blessing and
inspiration, Sam Powell and his music ministry. He not only offers up
worship to the Lord, but adds the extra blessing of teaching God's Word,
through song and testimony. All of us here were moved and challenged to
serve. "Find
out for yourself what others are so excited about... With his latest
release, "Go To Nineveh", Sam delivers song after song of catchy
melodies and cool horn riffs, but most importantly biblical truth that
will touch your heart and soul with the gospel of Jesus Christ. SAM POWELL
Rik Wright’s Fundamental Forces is an innovative collection of modern
progressive jazz players who’ve developed a rich library of original
repertoire that is hauntingly beautiful, thoughtful, and evocative.
Their performances effectively pull together the two extremes of
acoustic and electric jazz without sacrificing the crystalline character
of either.
On their debut release the quartet immerses us in a unique world of dark
and beautiful modern jazz soundscapes, with Wright’s guitar at the helm
steering through an array of intriguing original compositions. The
group formed as one of the house bands for the Zero-G Concerts &
workshops, a bi-weekly series of productions taking place in venues all
over Seattle WA, and has quickly established itself at the forefront of
Seattle’s resurging jazz fusion scene.
This is by far Wright’s most impressive performance to date –deftly
navigating his cohorts with a purpose and balance indicative of a
seasoned musician of his stature. Even more remarkable is the caliber of
musicians he’s assembled for the journey. Multi-instrumentalist James
DeJoie is prominently featured throughout. DeJoie, an underground hero
in the renowned Seattle progressive jazz scene, is primarily known for
his stellar performances on baritone saxophone. However, on this outing
he eschews the bari, opting for a plethora of other reed instruments
instead –clarinet, alto sax and flute chief among them.
Celebrated bassist Geoff Harper is the foundation of the ensemble
–steadfastly holding down the lines of Wright’s scores with a wistful
spontaneity and freedom rarely seen in these territories. Over top,
rather than underneath, sails drummer and percussion Greg Campbell,
who’s performance throughout this recording is far too stunning to
adequately describe.
All in all, this is a release not to be missed –an exhilarating tour de
force by an amazing new quintet. Hopefully there is much more to come. RIK WRIGHT'S FUNDAMENTAL FORCES
Melodic, atmospheric, minimalist music led by Get The Blessing
saxophonist Jake McMurchie and featuring the best of Bristol’s jazz
scene in the form of Will Harris on bass, Mark Whitlam on drums, with
special guest and vortex regular Dan Messore on guitar. Electronics and
acoustic instruments combine with an evolutionary approach to
improvisation to create scientifically aural magic.Born in London, raised in Bristol, Cambridge educated, Jake McMurchie
has been an influential member of the thriving South West jazz scene
for nearly two decades. His distinctive sound, imagination and melodic
drive have made him a key member of many of the most innovative and
exciting bands to emerge from the Bristol area, notably Get The
Blessing, What Four and the contemporary big band Ultrasound.
When not touring with GTB, Jake is a key figure in the South West’s
vibrant jazz scene playing with rising stars Emily Wright, Nick Malcolm,
Mike Willox, The Magnificent Seven, and with saxophone quartet Venn. He
has also played with the National Youth Jazz Orchestra, Portishead and
with the great Portuguese singer Fernando Tordo at the National Theatre
in Lisbon and in the Cape Verdean islands.Growing up near Nottingham, Mark initially studied piano from age seven
and then later percussion, receiving tuition from Royal Philharmonic and
Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra percussionists. Learning from master
drummers Ralph Salmins, Jeff Hamilton, Jim Chapin and Dave Wickens, Mark
was offered a place at Trinity College of Music to study for a Masters
degree in jazz performance.Will’s dynamic and comprehensive approach to the double bass has seen
him chosen by Bobby Wellins, Alan Barnes, David Newton, Tina May and
Anita Wardell.Dan Messore is a broad-minded and eclectic musician. After several years
in Central America, he returned to the UK and completed a MA in jazz
and composition at the Royal Welsh College of Music and Drama in
Cardiff. MICHELSON MORLEY
