ANTONIO ALMA | Personal Encounter | Independent
MARGARET BELL | Christmas With You | Independent
SYLVIA BENNETT | It's Christmas Time Gift Card & CD | Out of Sight Music
CHRIS GODBER | Where Are You CHRISTmas | Independent
THERESA GRAYSON | Live2Love | Independent
JAREZ | Give Love On Christmas Day | Independent
JIM SAMUEL | Christmas | Independent
JASON SMITH | Have Yourself a Merry Little Chritmas | Irie Records
76 DEGREES WEST BAND Keep On Movin' On Perfect Image Entertainment LLC
The new album is out from Washington's D.C.’s funky, jazz ensemble, 76 Degrees West Band, KEEP ON MOVING ON, and it is horn-intensive and soulful! Their energetic first single, and title track has been followed up with another smash, "Something," featuring Raheem Devaughn on vocals! Named for the longitude of the D.C. Metro, this amazing band calls their style, “Funky Jazz Music with Saxophone highlights wrapped in an East Coast Swing.” Bassist/trombonist Leon Rawlings heads up the group, with Eddie Baccus covering most of the sax work. This is one of the most exciting live performance bands in the genre and a do not miss on any line-up! KEEP ON MOVING ON is another stand-out release from the 76 Degrees West Band… continued proof that inside or outside the Beltway, they are the bomb!
MARK ADAMS Conversations Distribution 13
Critically acclaimed, piano virtuoso Mark Adams celebrates the release of his exciting, new album CONVERSATIONS. This highly anticipated project showcases Mark at his most natural, adeptly gliding through all styles of jazz, from smooth and soulful to cool and contemporary with plenty of improvisation and funkitude. The Baltimore native is one of the most inspired and dynamic players of his generation and of our time. In addition to his solo work, the versatile musician is a first-call performer and recording artist as well as a noted published author and professor! His extensive career keeps him in close proximity to the best of the best around the world. CONVERSATIONS will put you in the middle of some of the most dynamic musical dialog you’ll ever hear from jazz keys, whether it lean soulful pop or bebop funk… Mark Adams has a command of the ivories that is captivating! His melodies are playful and his grooves sophisticated, appealing to jazz fans of all kinds!
AIRBORNE Airborne - 25th Anniversary - Silver Skies Tilt Records
The positive vibe of Airborne’s “Sunshower” single earlier this summer gave us an enticing tease of what has finally arrived... The 25th ANNIVERSARY CD – SILVER SKIES is well worth the wait! As bright as a rainbow, this outstanding and much loved multi-cultural group celebrates a quarter century of “Joyful Jazz” with their signature sound of Island Passion with Urban Emotion. They’ve created a timeless collection of 12 new originals to celebrate this important milestone, and they cover every element that has made them so successful over the years including fusion jazz, funk, Latin and more, all with that trademark Airborne excitement and energy. This isn’t background music at all. This is happy, upbeat, festive, and motivating contemporary jazz, from first track to last. The next radio single out of the gate is the scintillating “City Spirits,” and beyond that the SILVER SKIES are the limit! Hey, Airborne, you’re good to go for another 25!
MARGARET BELL Christmas With You Independent
Dove award-winning recording artist, Jazz and Neo-soul singer, Margaret Bell, celebrates the holidays with a gorgeous original… her new seasonal single, “Christmas With You" has all the ingredients that make a holiday classic… it's heartfelt, compelling, and soulful! This talented artist is also an actress and vocal coach and performs regularly with some of the biggest names in contemporary music including Bebe Winans. Margaret is releasing her first ever jazz project, LIFE IS BEAUTIUFL in early 2014! A Happy New Year indeed!
SYLVIA BENNETT It's Christmas Time Gift Card & CD Out of Sight Music
IT’S CHRISTMAS TIME WITH SYLVIA BENNETT has been repackaged into a beautiful CD Greeting Card combo offering a unique blend of holiday favorites, sprinkled with four new holiday songs, three new originals penned by the talented Ms. Bennett and producer Hal S. Batt. Each original song was inspired by the colors, lights and the spirit of giving... the classics include “Winter Wonderland,” “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” and, Sylvia’s personal favorite, “The Christmas Song.” Don’t miss IT’S CHRISTMAS TIME WITH SYLVIA BENNETT from the lovely songstress that accompanied Lionel Hampton through the years. This special offering is the first of Sylvia Bennett’s new gift collection and a happy sign of good things to come from our favorite jazz chanteuse!
SYLVIA BENNETT C'est Si Bon Out of Sight Music
It is good! That’s what the French mean when they say “c’est si bon”… and let’s face it, nobody knows good like the French! Good wine, good food, good art and good music! Sylvia Bennett was born to sing these songs, her love affair with France include these enchanting songs that, Paris herself, sparkle with seduction and panache! The Grammy-nominee is truly an American diva with a French heart… and her love affair with France continues on this exciting new recording, sung all in French, C’EST SI BON! The charming songtress is in top form here with velvety songs that will translate smoothly into the contemporary jazz arena, including the latest single, the title track, "C'est si bon," (means "It's So Good") plus “La Mer,” and her fun and sexy version of “Un Homme et Une Femme" ("A Man and A Woman"). The timeless talent does it again on C’EST SI BON, with warmth, clarity and exquisite performance! If you like Ella Fitzgerald, Barbra Streisand, and Rosemary Clooney, you’ll LOVE Sylvia Bennett! Tres bien!
AARON BING Otra Parte De Mi Century Records
Saxman Aaron Bing started playing professionally when he was just 15-years-old, and his star has been rising ever since! His debut release for Century Records, OTRA PARTE DE MI is already gaining attention. Jazzreview.com says, "Bing is currently building a reputation as an up and coming player in today’s new generation of Smooth Jazz artists" and, Smooth Jazz Therapy says Aaron's first single, “Isla Del Encanto” (Enchanted Island), is "Something special and certainly one of the best Smooth Jazz cuts you will hear this year." We agree! Its Latin flavor, great melody, and Aaron's superb playing create an incomparable listening experience. It doesn't stop there… OTRA PARTE DE MI is loaded with great music! We'd suggest putting “Fiesta” and “Noche de Romance” on your short list, for starters. We predict this is the first of many Aaron Bing albums you'll want to have in your home collection!
COLORS 2.0 Brand New Day Independent
Brian Sherman is the vibrancy in Colors 2.0… he is also the keyboardist, composer, producer and co-founder of the original, L.A.-based Colors band that had tremendous success in the 80’s and 90’s recording and performing on the same bill as many of their contemporary jazz colleagues including Spyro Gyra, Lee Ritenour, Keiko Matsui, Ronnie Laws, Curtis Mayfield and many more. The blend is a fun, uplifting combination of Smooth Jazz, Funk, R&B, Latin and Gospel. The exciting new project BRAND NEW DAY features top studio musicians including bassist Rob McDonald, guitarist Toshi Yanagi, Grammy Award-winning vocalist, John Fluker, powerhouse vocalist, Nikko Allen, and special guests including Yellowjackets’ drummer Will Kennedy, percussionist Lenny Castro and more! This is a wonderful new project that we highly recommend!
DR. DAVE Love Potion Hatherill Records
International recording artist, guitarist Dr. Dave, aka Dr. David P. Hatherill, Ph.D. gifts us Smooth Jazz fans with a delightful “best of” compilation entitled LOVE POTION. Containing 15 of his smoothest, most romantic performances, it features a well-crafted collection of originals like the title track and “Guitar Island,” together with such appealing covers as “Surfer Girl,” “You Are So Beautiful” and “Never Can Say Goodbye.” With a host of today’s and yesterday’s well-known and loved musicians, like Fattburger’s Carl Evans Jr. plus Ronnie Laws, Hubert Laws, Ernie Watts, and Hollis Gentry III, these Dr. Dave classics will likely bring back positive memories and emotions… connecting the early Smooth Jazz years with today. You might even fall in love all over again… with the nostalgia… with the music for what it is... tastefully delicious Smooth Jazz in its truest sense. Dr. Dave’s LOVE POTION is high on my personal “recommended” list!
CHRIS GODBER Where Are You CHRISTmas Independent
Panama City Beach rising star saxophonist, Chris Godber delivers a holiday gift to make the season bright! WHERE ARE YOU CHRISTMAS? is packed with Smooth Jazz, R&B and even Gospel-tinged tunes that will lift your holiday spirits. Chris is one of our favorite new discoveries and hearing his playing and unique spin on holiday classics is both inspiring and jubilant! WHERE ARE YOU CHRISTMAS? is filled with heart and soul and special guest vocal performances! Don't miss this one!
JAREZ On Top Of The World Independent
Listen, I love the classics and appreciate the essentials, but I crave new music… it keeps me youthful and makes me feel connected to our ever-changing world. SmoothJazz.com has been blazing a mix of genre-blending music for more than a dozen years; we’re always thrilled to discover fellow trailblazers. Saxophonist Jarez (born Jarel Posey) has created a Cali cool hybrid of jazz, hip-hop and R&B with confidence! His new album ON TOP OF THE WORLD will take his treatment of Smooth Jazz to the Echo Boomer generation, featuring his bold new hit single, “Treasure.” Jarez says that his desire is to be the Tiger Woods of jazz, as he puts it, “Tiger made an old man’s game exciting and real for kids. I want to do the same for jazz.” The 30-something is busy, in addition to promoting his new release, he tours, performs and even cooks with iconic rapper Coolio! Discover jazz by Jarez and expand your world!
JAREZ Give Love On Christmas Day Independent
One of the coolest versions of the Jackson Five Christmas classic that we've heard in a long while… Jarez brightens up the season with his new holiday offering "Give Love On Christmas Day"!
His re-imagining of this great tune is fresh and compelling; merriment with a message, featuring soul-stirring vocals from A.J. Luke! This rising star Smooth Jazz artist knows how to deliver powerful instrumentals with a unique blend of pop and jazz. The world needs 'Jarez Jazz,' and his new Christmas single is a must for your holiday season. It's a bright flame!
CHUCK LOEB Silhouette Shanachie Records
When one of the most highly-respected guitar masters in contemporary jazz releases a new project, I definitely can’t wait to listen. When that artist is the Grammy-nominated Chuck Loeb, I’m always thrilled with what I hear. SILHOUETTE, the latest solo work from Fourplay’s brilliant guitarist, is no exception. What an incredible talent… and what a delightful, authentic human being! SILHOUETTE contains a full spectrum of jazz, from the Fourplay-influenced title track and “Silver Lining” to “JT,” his tribute to musical hero James Taylor, and “Stompin’,” reprising the straight-ahead organ-based sound of previously-released, “Plain‘n’Simple.” Add the lovely collaborations with his wife, Carmen Cuesta (“Esta Tarde Vi Llover”), daughters Lizzy (“My One and Only Love”) and Christina (“Las Eras”) and the result is, well, stellar. Whether you label this album Jazz, Contemporary Jazz or Smooth Jazz, Chuck Loeb’s SILHOUETTE is and will continue to be an absolute essential addition to your musical library!
PIECES OF A DREAM In The Moment Shanachie Records
The latest release from contemporary jazz group Pieces of a Dream is an impressive piece of work indeed! Keyboardist James Lloyd and drummer Curtis Harmon, the founding duo and driving force behind this iconic band, continue to display the same passion and exuberance on IN THE MOMENT as they did as two Philly kids in the mid-70’s. It was during those early years that the late Grover Washington, Jr. discovered them and produced the first three of what have now become 20 albums and counting for one of the most notable and recognizable instrumental groups in the Smooth Jazz, Quiet Storm, R&B genres. IN THE MOMENT finds the group joined by superstar guitarist Rhon Lawrence and rising sax star Tony Watson Jr., and brings it with sensuous R&B and Smooth Jazz jams, starting with the vibrant and fun radio hit “Stepper’s “D” Lite. This one’s an automatic. Just get it!
PAOLO RUSTICHELLI Soul Italiano (f. Mondo Latino) Next Age Music
He’s done it again… Italy’s premier instrumentalist, electro Smooth Jazz composer Paolo Rustichelli, son of Oscar nominee, Carlo Rustichelli, releases another stirring single from his album SOUL ITALIANO, “Mondo Latino.” The innovative songsmith harnesses the sun for an all out Mediterranean pop jazz jam with elements of Latin dance and pulsating, electro chill. Paolo brings something extraordinary to music… he cannot be defined, so to call him Smooth Jazz or any other label would be to limit his artistic expression. We’re fortunate to have his influence on our genre, I encourage today's recording artists to listen to the musical relevance that Paolo Rustichelli composes with. A global, contemporary mindset makes his sonic offerings suitable for airplay on many radio formats and equally desirable on dance floors and at chill out lounges all over the world. “Mondo Latino’ is another great example of the musical world according to Paolo! We’re in!
JIM SAMUEL Christmas Independent
The perfect soundtrack for the season, whether you’re egg nogging or holiday hobnobbing! Maryland keyboardist and composer Jim Samuel delivers a warm, jazzy collection of Christmas standards and carols on his album CHRISTMAS. Jim’s fun, upbeat arrangements of favorite classics are sure to make your season bright. Formerly with the recording group Bob Brady and the Conchords, Jim had the opportunity to perform with musical icons Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, the Beach Boys, Buffalo Springfield and the Who! The Conchords are still considered one of the top "blue eyed soul" groups from that era. Thankfully Jim has found his way back to the music biz and goes all out for the holidays on CHRISTMAS with 9 festive tunes including a funky “Frosty the Snowman,” a jazzy “Angels We Have Heard On High” and a smooth “What Child Is This.” Turn the fun on high this year with CHRISTMAS from Jim Samuel!
JASON SMITH Have Yourself a Merry Little Chritmas Irie Records
Smooth Jazz Bassist Jason Smith celebrates the holidays with a smooth groove version of “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” and if that wasn't enough, he's giving it to our listeners around the world in the form of a FREE DOWNLOAD. Fans of one the contemporary jazz world's most beloved bass players, Wayman Tisdale, will love Jason Smith, as he delivers a very similar low end groove with a wonderful sense of melody!
Jason will be releasing his first solo recording in January of 2014 called FLYING SOLO! We couldn't be more excited about this newcomer and we hope you will trust us when we tell you to stay tuned for great success from Mr. Smith!
Click on the BUY or DOWNLOAD button to get your FREE download of "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" and LIKE Jason Smith on FaceBook at Facebook.com/jasonsmithonline
ED STONE King of Hearts Sapphire Music, LLC
My first reaction to Michigan-based guitarist Ed Stone’s third CD, KING OF HEARTS was, “Wow, this guy really knows his stuff”! Dr. Stone (he’s a medical guy too!) has crafted an outstanding collection of in-the-pocket, feel-good Smooth Jazz, with all the elements that hits are made of… superb musicianship, hooky melodies, even some fine vocal work on three of the songs, and a positive vibe throughout. The album’s title track, still cruising along on the charts, and the follow-up single, “Automatic” are very strong tunes indeed. In addition to those songs, I also especially like Dr. Stone’s covers of Gloria Estefan’s “The Rhythm Is Gonna Get You” and the Temptations’ “Treat Her Like a Lady.” Fact is, there’s not a track on this album that isn’t a radio-worthy winner. So, if you were to ask my “wellness” advice, Dr. Ed Stone’s KING OF HEARTS is definitely right for you!
WALDINO Free Flower LoveGypsies.com
Waldino, the prolific song craftsman we’ve come to know and love over the past decade has released another bouquet of songs with fresh beats and vibrant melodies here on FREE FLOWER… The reflective artist in full bloom on another mindful, musical journey into love and life! Walter Liskiewicz is Waldino, the former surgeon turned skillful composer and recording artist mastering the brand of music we like to call Chill Out. FREE FLOWER goes a bit deeper into electronica and all the while offers tranquil release with songs like the bamboo-laced, “Moon Glow” with cool rythms and textures as well as another favorite of mine, “What Rush” with a its hopful and joyful melodic liquid vibes and “Ocean of Love,” with its cinematic energy! Get your summer grooves here, on Waldino’s FREE FLOWER, as fragrant as night blooming Jasmine! Coming soon WaldinoMusic.com!
PATRICK YANDALL Soul Grind Innervision Records
Sensational originals, like the first radio single, “My Lady,” plus impeccably performed covers from the Michael Jackson, Steely Dan and Larry Carlton songbooks, are what you’ll hear on the latest release from San Diego guitarist Patrick Yandall. I’m thoroughly digging SOUL GRIND’s signature performances from one of the best of the best California guitarists, bar none. You will, too! Patrick combines his top-notch composition skills with stunning guitar work as he moves effortlessly from Contemporary Jazz to Soul/R&B to Rock to Funk to Blues… always taking us along for a compelling audio experience! SOUL GRIND shows a great deal of depth musically, from the electric energy of “Say Ow” to the gentle fluidity of Jackson’s “Human Nature” to the quiet intensity of “Lay Me Down” and “When Robins Fly.” The more I listen, the more impressed I am with Patrick Yandall’s SOUL GRIND. A total winner!
ANTONIO ALMA Personal Encounter Independent
From the beautiful Mediterranean island of Sicily comes an exceptional album of real quality from composer/saxophonist Antonio Alma. Taormina, Italy is a charming, almost fairytale town providing a colorful environment for the artist to create PERSONAL ENCOUNTER, his latest recording. Mixed and mastered with the skill of a great artist, Antonio's sax sores majestically across a wealth of truly magnificent self-penned, passionate Smooth Jazz/Soul/Gospel songs, all with a sophisticated and unique sound, as unique as Taormina itself!
BART BRANDJES Real Life Woodward Avenue
Bart Brandjes, finalist in “The Voice of Holland” competition, and international discovery of producer/guitarist Paul Brown, is a 50-year-old carpenter from Amsterdam who could be the vocal find of the year. His first U.S. release, REAL LIFE, is stunning! Recorded in L.A. and produced by two-time Grammy winner, Brown, it’s seriously outstanding. The lead single is a re-imagined treatment of Chris Rea’s iconic 1986 hit “On the Beach,” a song that was a Smooth Jazz staple upon release. Bart’s fresh new version, along with PB’s guitar work, is a perfect introduction to Brandjes’ vocal talents. The magic doesn’t end with one song... REAL LIFE is the real deal, with A-list support from artists such as Jessy J and Elan Trotman. It’s only just beginning for this humble, hardworking, passionate proponent of World-Class, blue-eyed soul. REAL LIFE will be a hit album, and Bart Brandjes will make musical history! Yes, he’s THAT good!
CALIFORNIA CONGA Spill Independent
The Cali vibe is spilling out everywhere on this fun EP featuring congas and other cool percussive persuasions inspired by JWesley Bassard. SPILL from California Conga captures the essence of the California beach experience in the daytime and the cool, energetic grooves of the west coast nightlife. Smooth Jazz meets Nu Conga… Download your copy of SPILL now for free at CDBaby! Yes, we said FREE… or purchase at iTunes and check out their website for other cool info!
COLDJACK Spitfire Angels Thunderdome Sounds
You decide what’s real and what’s spin… Coldjack is searching through time and space for the perfect blend of music; he craves soulful emotion, jazzy melodies and rhythmic beats as well as compelling vocals that speak to the heart of the matter. Until this ageless wanderer finds exactly what he craves musically, he will not be free to discover mortality or experience true love. New on Thunderdome Sounds is SPITFIRE ANGELS produced by the Juno-winning and Grammy-nominated Eddie Bullen, featuring fresh and exciting originals from songwriter/vocalist John Fraser and bassist Marcus Davis (both Londoners living in Canada). They call themselves Coldjack! Coincidence? We think not! The music is a perfect blend of Smooth Jazz, R&B, pop, grooves and powerful vocals. Think Steely Dan meets Level 42 meets Sade. Have a listen for yourself and set YOUR soul free!
PINO CREMONE Smooth Inspiration Independent
The term musical genius should always be used cautiously. However, in Pino Cremone's case, caution can be thrown to the wind... he is a genius! Writer, multi-instrumentalist, producer and creator of some of Europe's smoothest inspirations. This Sicilian-born, German-based musician weaves his beautiful saxophone around ten of the most memorable tunes we've heard in some time... SMOOTH INSPIRATION is pure Inspiration, pure genius!
DAJUBILUS LATIN ENSEMBLE No Hay Nada Mejor Ollabarac Record Label, Inc.
From Puerto Rico-born Carlos Alexis comes a fresh, exciting collection of Latin-tinged jazz that features Bossa Nova, Samba, and Caribbean rhythms, together with a touch of R&B, as Carlos’ Dajubilus Latin Ensemble celebrates the release of NO HAY NADA MEJOR. This is one of those albums that will delight your senses (it certainly does mine) and absolutely set your inner spirit free, with vibrant, passionate, addicting music that’s going to sound amazing on your speakers or headphones! Literal translation of the band's name is to "give a shout of joy”!
FRAN DOMINGUEZ As The Phoenix Bird Independent
Imagine many of your favorite Smooth Jazz artists set aflame to hot, horn-infused Latin jazz… that’s exactly what AS THE PHOENIX BIRD brings to the table here! From Mexico City, comes Cuban-born trumpet player, Fran Dominguez and his brand new release, the Smooth Fran Project, AS THE PHOENIX BIRD with ten exciting Smooth Jazz songs that range from soft, sweet and soulful to spicy Latin rhythms and Afro-Cuban jazz. Songs that you’ll recognize from your favorites including Fattburger, Dave Koz, Jeff Lorber, Norman Brown, Chuck Loeb and more! Inspired by the likes of Arturo Sandoval, Fran developed his vibrant style while playing with the world-renown Cuban group Spades for 10 years! The outstanding trumpet player has recently come back to the spotlight after a battle with is health and is sounding better than ever… hence the Phoenix rises and Fran Dominguez rises too with his exciting new Smooth Fran project! Don’t miss it!
D. EDWARD Little Red Box Independent
Think of Oakland-based singer-songwriter/multi-instrumentalist D. Edward’s debut album LITTLE RED BOX as a blender full of flavors… all of them smooth, sweet and savory… from jazz to soul to Latin to pop and blues. His first radio single, “Truly," is a hit, an engaging heartfelt vocal with a melody that you will easily find yourself humming or whistling over and over after only a few listens! As for the rest of his eleven originals, they’re just as impressive, illustrating D. Edward’s prevailing theme of love… finding it, losing it, living it. I love this guy’s style! He’s totally at-ease with his clever intonation and turns of phrase. And the melodies? First-rate and memorable! In fact, the last track on the album, “The Passage,” is an incredibly tasty instrumental that’s perfect for Smooth Jazz. Not to gush here, but D. Edward’s LITTLE RED BOX shines brilliantly with an abundance of creativity and freshness!
EVEON I Give My Love To You Independent/YCC Records
This talented chanteuse has been singing since she was 2 years old and has shared her soulful voice all over the world singing with super stars like Patty Labelle! Eveon (pronounced “Yvonne”) is showcasing her songwriting craftsmanship and vocal skills on her brand new, Smooth Jazz single “I Give My Love To You.” This inspiring, jazz-infused love song is available now along with the funky, “Piece of Pie” from her soon to be released full album due out in the Spring 2014!
GARRY GOIN Road Trip Grapevine Square Ent
Garry Goin’s ROAD TRIP on Grapevine Square Entertainment will make you want to call “shot gun” for what is a smooth musical journey influenced by the world-class guitarist’s most memorable places and people he’s had the pleasure of traveling through and playing for. Imagine a jazz journey if you will, rolling from the East Coast through back, country roads, over twisted highways and even venturing beyond the U.S. borders to South America, Japan and South Africa before ending up at the beaches of California! The album features guest appearances by saxophonist Kirk Whalum and vocalist Kevin Whalum as well as a killer band of musicians hand-selected by Goin to fit the bill for this exciting new release. Dripping with joyfulness, hope and that kind of jazz guitar playing that makes you smile from ear to ear, ROAD TRIP is the perfect soundtrack for upcoming travels!
THERESA GRAYSON Live2Love Independent
Meet the hottest new sax diva who’s got my ear these days… Ms. Theresa Grayson! This Texas native is scoring big with her sophomore album release, LIVE2LOVE… a passionate, sultry collection of compelling originals, together with freshly interpreted classic R&B and Pop. Her first radio single, “Afterthoughts,” is heading up the charts, and there’s much more where that comes from on this World-class project. Theresa Grayson is the complete package… beautiful woman, brilliant saxtress and vocalist, stunning performer. LIVE2LOVE is a must-have for any jazz lover!
SHARI HALL B Side Independent/SCeNic Enterprises
Singer, songwriter Shari Hall lives her dream, gracing us with the first smooth, passionate single from her new album PERFECT LOVE. Ms. Hall enlists the talents of sax man Marcus Mitchell to create the perfect Smooth Jazz vocal. Check it out for yourself and fall in love with "B Side"!
JESSY J Second Chances Shanachie Records
Acclaimed saxtress Jessy J puts her talent, experience, vitality, heritage, and solid industry connections together to create a magnificent, self-produced musical concoction entitled SECOND CHANCES. Ms. J embraces her most loved genres… Jazz, Latin, and R&B with help from the likes of Jeff Lorber, Jimmy Haslip, Norman Brown and Johnny Britt. The music is vibrant and diverse, from the engaging first radio single, “Listen 2 the Groove,” right through to the bright and positive “Twice.” (The clever “2” theme, inspired by Jessy’s manager, Stewart Coxhead, prevails on this release!) Check out the adventurous “Double Trouble,” the festive, funky “Mambo Gumbo,” a joyful salute to New Orleans, co-written with Joe Sample, and featuring Johnny Britt on vocals and trumpet, plus the jazzy “Tango for Two,” co-written with Jeff and Jimmy. Jessy J’s SECOND CHANCES is a work she should be very proud of. I’m calling it her best album yet!
SAM BASSMAN JENKINS Project 37 Independent
When you slap down a groove on six strings of solid steel like Sam "Bassman" Jenkins, it stays slapped! The South Carolina “Bassman” owns a mighty bass guitar (Kensmith Custom) and uses it in skillful performance on his brand new work PROJECT 37, a 10 track adventure into Bassland, traversing soul, funk and the smoothest of jazz! PROJECT 37 slaps, grooves and funkafies in all the ways you love from bass-driven Smooth Jazz... download and get down!
REZA KHAN Dreamwalker Painted Media
New from Bangladesh-born guitarist Reza Khan comes DREAMWALKER with his band Painted Diaries and featuring special guests keyboardist Philippe Saisse and saxophonist Andy Snitzer on Reza’s exciting new collection of global grooves! The title track is the project’s first single and we anticipate a tremendous traction at radio worldwide. The music is remarkably accessible… fans of Peter White and Ken Navarro, will love Reza Khan! Living in New York, Reza gathers his musical inspiration from his world travels as well collaborative efforts with renowned musicians. Chillaxed yet deep!
JUSTIN KLUNK Justin Klunk - EP Independent
Check out this electrifyingly unique sax work from uber-talented L.A.-based newcomer Justin Klunk. ENIGMA is the first single from his debut album, JUSTIN KLUNK – EP, and it bodes extremely well for his future. With a degree from USC’s Popular Music Performance program, mentoring from David Benoit and a resume of performances with top artists, Justin is on the fast track to Smooth Jazz stardom. One listen to his fresh and unique sound and you’ll know exactly what we mean!
CHRIS LE BLANC Beyond The Sunsets Karmaloft Music
A soul-stirring blend of electronic music and acoustic instrumentation mixed with wonderfully evocative vocals with some essential Buddhist philosophy… That’s Chris Le Blanc’s magical new album, BEYOND THE SUNSETS. You may know this talented artist from his contributions to world-renown chill out compilations such as Café del Mar, Buddha Bar and Sony Erotic Lounge. BEYOND THE SUNSETS is 100% Chris Le Blanc tunes… 13 shimmering originals from the gorgeous island of Ibiza.
DAVID MCLORREN Everything Changes Reethym® Production
Multi-instrumentalist and producer, David McLorren's third release, EVERYTHING CHANGES can be described as a combination of ethereal, sexy and innovative music that will hook you in from the first note of the project to the very last. David's keyboards are smooth and enticing on "When I Knew," and with the help of sax-player Rod Williams, the title track jumps right into your consciousness with its alluring play between the tune's mellow vibe and tasty sax licks. If you’re looking for something unique and different from your Smooth Jazz and chill out musical experience, David McLorren’s EVERYTHING CHANGES is definitely for you! As the artist states on his graphically pleasing website, “This album is an evolution of thinking and a seasonal change to the next level.” We thinkn you’ll enjoy this audio journey!
NAJEE The Morning After : A Musical Love Journey Shanachie Records
We’re always thrilled when we get the news that smooth sax sensation Najee has a new album out! THE MORNING AFTER–A MUSICAL LOVE JOURNEY on Shanachie Entertainment is a fast follow-up to last year’s THE SMOOTH SIDE OF SOUL and is the Grammy Award-winning instrumentalist at his very best with an all-star cast including producer Demonte Posey (Tony Braxton, Babyface) plus Ray Fuller, Brian Bromberg and chart-topping R&B diva Meli’sa Morgan delivers a stellar vocal. The musical adventure pays homage to the late George Duke and draws inspiration from Najee’s world travels. As the title suggests, the album also embraces life and love… with songs like the evocative new single “Champs Élysées,” the soulful, breezy “San Tropez,” the hypnotic “Mafalala,” (a tribute to Maputo in Mozambique), THE MORNING AFTER is a global passport to inspired destinations. Najee’s music is the soundtrack to a smooth life… it always has been… Sexy, sophisticated and meaningful!
NJ LADYFINGERS This Is What It Is Independent
NJ LadyFingers… a fun stage name adopted by the highly energetic keyboardist/band leader Normita Jeffery who knows how to conjure up a good time with her sizzling hot brand of Smooth Jazz, R&B and Soul! A fancy fusion of upbeat, positive grooves and innovative melodies from the classically trained pianist who has opted for contemporary jazz to express her musical joy! Based out of Tampa, Florida, Normita services up Bob Baldwin-style piano with exciting vocals and head-bopping jams on the new release THIS IS WHAT IT IS, which is currently garnering national and International attention and charting on the Soul Charts in the UK! “You Know How to Love Me,” has grabbed our attention, along with the rest of the song selections on this exceptional album! Guaranteed to keep a smile on your face and add a bounce to your bones!
ARTIE PORTER JR. Simply Artie Independent
“Music created to resonate with your heart, mind, and soul.” That’s the goal of South Carolina keyboardist Milton Arthur “Artie” Porter, Jr. (aka A. Porter Jr.), who produced and performs on this debut release, SIMPLY ARTIE. It contains all original compositions, with one exception… an incredibly beautiful version of “Amazing Grace.” In his own words, “Jazz music is my way of speaking; it gives me a voice.” Born to a classical musician mother, he was taught early on to appreciate great music and take his craft seriously. From his first piano notes at the age of ten to his professional work in jazz combos and gospel groups, Mr. Porter has indeed honed his craft, as evidenced here on this outstanding new collection, from the depth and grandeur of “Trust You” to the percussive funk of “Friends” and the bluesy, trumpet intensive “Suave.” SIMPLY ARTIE is well worth your time and your ears!
ROBERTO SOL Electrified Emotions Karmaloft Music
Roberto Sol's first solo project, ELECTRIFIED EMOTIONS on Karmaloft Music is a wonderful mix of Balearic grooves, lusty Latin and ethno flavors... essentially pure, soulful, white isle chillout vibes, and Smooth Jazz. Whether you gravitate to the tasty "Miles Beyond" or chill out to Rana's vocals on "Playback Rewind," Roberto Sol's music takes you on a journey that's both illuminating and electrifying!
TONY TRAVALINI Hey You Independent
Creative, inspiring, versatile… apt descriptions for multi-instrumentalist Tony Travalini, as he debuts his first single, "Hey You" from his forthcoming album RENAISSANCE MAN. This well-crafted, brilliantly performed fusion of Smooth Jazz, Pop, and R&B sounds like a smash hit to me. From collaborations with famed composer Teddy Randazzo to a miraculous recovery from an accident that nearly cost him his hand, Tony Travalini has emerged like a phoenix, and "Hey You" is the beginning of big things to come!
