Tianna Hall is featured in Houston's Modern Luxury Magazine

Mystéfy is reviewed by John Book

THIS IS BOOKS MUSIC

REVIEW: Mystéfy’s “Me”

by:  John Book

Stephanie Pierre is a Canadian jazz vocalist who goes by the nom de plume Mystéfy and on her album simply titled Me (H’art/Phoenix Music Group) she shares her gift of voice and her love for music on a solid album.

It sounds like a very laid back lounge album, the kind where you might invite a few guests over to your home to simply enjoy the music along with the scenery, and I say this because it sounds a bit too honest and real to be contained in a coffee house. There’s almost a sense of dark luxury in her voice, as heard in “Creatures”, she reminds me a bit of a more adventurous Anne Pigalle. I enjoy hear approach in tracks like “Learn Just To Be”, and “We Are Through”, and there’s something about the way she sings that makes you want to hear more, which is rare for me as someone who comes across an insane amount of crappy jazz vocal albums. This isn’t one of them. A fine addition to anyone’s jazz collection.

Aimee Allen is reviewed by Improvijazzation Nation

by:  Rotcod Zzaj

Aimee Allen – WINTERS & MAYS: 

Some lady jazz singers just “try too hard”… others “think” they’ve “got that swing” (but don’t)… in Aimee’s case, none of the above apply… she’s totally a natural!  Just scope out her mighty mellow & sultry vocal on “Stardust Reunited” to get an idea how quickly you’ll fall in love with her talent and shining spirit!  The CD is slated for release o/a 7 June 2011, so get in queue right now for a splendid listening experience.  My favorite piece of the even dozen she presents for you is “That Day“; though it only clocks in at 4:21, it features all her players (Peter McCann’s guitar, Toru Dodo’s piano, Craig Akin’s bass, Jacob Melchoir’s drums and percussion & Victor Prieto’s accordion) in most splendid support of her stellar talent.  I listen to a lot of female jazz vocalists – this lady is right at the TOP of her game!  I rate her CD as MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an “EQ” (energy quotient) rating of 4.97.  Get more information on Aimee’s FB page. Rotcod Zzaj

Introducing Aimée Allen

Re-Introducing Aimée Allen
Add Date:  Monday, June 6, 2011
Press - Actively Requesting Reviews and Interviews


Aimée Allen - vocals
Pete McCann - guitar
Toru Dodo - piano
Craig Akin - bass
Jacob Melchior - drums and percussion
Victor Prieto - accordion

Aimée Allen’s intimate connection with music began as a child. Her childhood was literally scored with classic jazz, because of her mother’s intense love of the music. The influence of the jazz tradition can be heard in Aimée’s musical style and interpretation choices. But Aimée’s listeners can also hear her individual voice, nuanced and sparkling with soul and sensuality.

Aimée first began singing professionally in college. As a student at Yale University Aimée was an active member and soloist with jazz a cappella groups. After college, Aimée lived in Paris where she performed regularly. The close relationship between the francophone audiences and Brazilian bossa nova, long one of Aimée’s musical loves, led Aimée to form Les Bossa Novices, a Paris-based group dedicated to bossa and jazz. Aimée went on to earn law degrees from Columbia University and the Sorbonne in Paris, all the while continuing to perform and hone her craft as a vocalist.

Incredibly, Aimée has maintained a double identity as a practicing private attorney by day, and a jazz vocalist by night. She continues to perform and record as part of New York’s jazz community, infusing her craft with a personal and intimate style. Standards and bossa are part of her signature repertoire, but now an accomplished composer, she also includes her originals songs, many of which have become audience favorites.

Aimée’s previous CD, l’Inexplicable, was the fruit her transcontinental experiences in music and her talents as a writer. The album is a collection of warm, soulful, jazz-pop originals blending African rhythms, Brazilian bossa, and classic American jazz. With one exception, all the selections on l’Inexplicable were written by Aimée, and each is sung in French. l’Inexplicable was released in Japan in 2008 under the independent label Vivid Sound and under the Schubert Music label in Europe also in 2008.

On Dream, Aimée’s debut release, Aimée offered inspired interpretations of jazz standards, familiar bossa nova classics and one original composition. In keeping with her worldly experience, Dream includes vocals in English, French, and Portuguese.

WINTERS & MAYS

Jazz vocalist Aimée Allen’s new album Winters & Mays is that rare combination of soulful, sensitive, and swinging. An eclectic collection of original jazz compositions and reinterpretations of standards, it seamlessly navigates complex waters between bossa nova, tango, jazz, blues, and swing, with a few detours into pop and poignant ballad.

The warmth of Aimée’s nuanced, velvet timbre and the superb artistry of the accompanying musicians shine through every track. Guitarist Pete McCann, pianist Toru Dodo, bassist Craig Akin, and drummer Jacob Melchior, each turn in masterful performances. Accordion virtuoso Victor Prieto burns as the guest star on three tracks, adding lush layers to already rich arrangements.

Pay special attention to Aimée’s original compositions “Second Time Around,” “Eden Autumn” and “Noah Too” (written for her nieces and nephew), “I’ll Get Along,” and “Stardust Reunited.” Aimée’s brother, composer and guitarist David Allen is the author of the rich, emotive ballad “We Are in Love Again,” and co-author with Aimée of “That Day.” Aimée’s inspired lyric to the Pat Metheny composition “Always and Forever” is also included here, with his permission, as a new title, “Love Aloud.”

Melvin Jones Holds Strong for 4 Weeks at CMJ in the Top 5

Melvin Jones Holds Strong in the 

Top 5 on the CMJ Jazz Chart

Melvin Jones shines as a modern, consummate jazz artist. Whether performing simmering ballads in an intimate setting or screaming a solo over a professional horn section in front of thousands, Jones’ jazz trumpet delivers for fans and critics alike. His unique style, combined with his superb technical facility, crafts an almost hypnotic tone for audiences, seamlessly creating harmonious jazz compositions drawn from diverse musical genres.

Says Jones, “I believe that all music is essentially similar, and I strive to create art that takes my listeners on an imaginative journey through varied musical styles. I draw from many areas, including different forms of jazz, samba, blues, hip hop, and beyond. My music attempts to weave these influences together to create unique and memorable sounds and compositions.”

Jones, a native of Memphis, Tenn., began his own personal music journey as a student at Morehouse College in Atlanta. He made an appearance on TLC’s triple platinum hit album Fanmail, and he was a founding member of the popular Latin jazz ensemble called Rio Negro. Highly successful, this distinctive group performed nationally to wide acclaim while recording three group albums.

Jones then pursued graduate music study at the Mason Gross School of the Arts where he studied under the world-renowned trumpeter and educator, the late William “Prof” Fielder. “Prof ’s” illustrious student roster includes greats like: Wynton Marsalis, Terence Blanchard, David Sanchez, Kenny Garrett, and classmate Sean Jones. After graduation, Jones continued a multi-faceted career, performing extensively throughout the United States and abroad while also teaching and lecturing at various universities and schools. Many jazz industry giants have graced the stage with Jones throughout his career, and he relishes these artistic collaborations. He has played and partnered with: Don Braden, Clark Terry, Victor Goines, Carmen Lundy, Terence Blanchard, Antonio Hart, and Freddy Cole. Jones is especially proud to have been a member of Illinois Jacquet’s last band, which captured his final recording at the Lincoln Center.


Jones has recently finished an eight-month-long national tour with Tyler Perry’s production entitled “Madea’s Big Happy Family,” an association which began with his appearance in Perry’s film “I Can Do Bad All By Myself.” Other Jones performance credits include being co-founder for the esteemed
pre-ensemble horn section named “Solid State,” which has recorded with The Anointed Pace Sisters, The Pussycat Dolls, Fergie, Nicole Scherzinger, Missy Elliott, Keri Hilson, and most recently the “Original Dreamgirl” herself, Jennifer Holiday. In addition to performing at jazz clubs around the country, he can now be seen as a reoccurring addition to the house band, the “Penthouse Players,” on the Mo’Nique Show which airs weekly on BET.

While Jones’ performing career is remarkable, his academic accomplishments are equally impressive. For six years, he served as the Director of Bands and Instrumental Studies at Morehouse College in Atlanta, where he had the opportunity to direct the world-renowned Morehouse College Jazz Ensemble and Marching Band. 

Dubbed the “House of Funk,” the marching band has received wide acclaim playing for both local and international events, including a Super Bowl and multiple nationally televised appearances. Jones recently finished recording his debut album entitled Pivot on Turnaround Records. The album, released April 2011, is a highly unique and personal achievement. Pivot is Jones’ first recording as a bandleader, and nearly all of its compositions are original and self-written.

Says Jones, “The concept of Pivot is a reflection of multidirectional experiences and also the artists’ ability to perform diverse styles at one time.” Says Jones, “I am thrilled to have brought together for this album some of my favorite musicians who represent such a broad spectrum of creative talent.”

Jones recently finished recording his debut album entitled Pivot on Turnaround Records. The album, released April 2011, is a highly unique and personal achievement. Pivot is Jones’ first

recording as a bandleader, and nearly all of its compositions are original and self-written.

Says Jones, “The concept of Pivot is a reflection of multidirectional experiences and also the artists’ ability to perform diverse styles at one time.” Says Jones, “I am thrilled to have brought together for this album some of my favorite musicians who represent such a broad spectrum of creative talent.”

David Leonhardt holds firm at #12 this week for 5 weeks so far

David Leonhardt Holds Firm at #12 on the
CMJ Jazz Chart for 5 weeks 

With over forty years of experience as a professional pianist, David Leonhardt is a true veteran of the music world. A road warrior; he has played across the world with some of the greatest jazz musicians around. Larry McKenna, at seventy one years of age, is the dean of Philadelphia jazz saxophonists and is revered as a legend there. Matthew Parrish is a virtuoso acoustic bassist with a growing international reputation. Nancy Reed, an undiscovered gem on vocals, has an underground following of devoted fans. Pittsburg drummer Paul Wells has toured with Deb bie Harryof Blondie fame as well as a host of jazz legends. Truly this is a group of some the top jazz musicians on the planet!

David Leonhardt - Piano
David Leonhardt is a critically acclaimed and highly popular jazz pianist who has appeared successfully at the International Arts Festival of Shenzen in China, the Winnipeg Jazz Festival, The French Maison de Dance in Lyon, as well festivals and concerts throughout the United States. He has been heard at The Apollo Theater, The Blue Note, Birdland, The Village Gate and other New York area nightclubs. He was musical director for jazz vocal legend Jon Hendricks for four years and has played for over fifteen years as the pianist in The David “Fathead” Newman Quartet. Mr. Leonhardt has numerous CDs, under his own name, is the president of Big Bang Records, is on the Roster of The Pennsylvania Arts On Tour and has performed with an array of jazz stars from Art Blakey to Benny Carter to Dave Liebman to Diane Reeves.

Larry McKenna - Saxophone
Larry McKenna is Philadelphia’s best kept jazz secret. A legend in the creative jazz scene there for over fifty years, Larry’s status as a jazz great has been affirmed by his myriad fans and the jazz stars with whom he has played and recorded including: Woody Herman, Clark Terry, Buddy DeFranco, Tony Bennett, Rosemary Clooney and Frank Sinatra. He is known for his gorgeous, velvety sound, the unparalleled beauty of his balladry, and his fluid, bebop-inspired improvisations. At seventy two years of age he is also an educator and skilled arranger and is considered the dean of the Philadelphia saxophonists. He first went on the road with Woody Herman’s big band in 1958!

Nancy Reed - vocals
The daughter of a jazz pianist and an opera singer, Nancy grew up in Brooklyn amid the musically rich culture of New York City. She has sung professionally for over twenty years, honing her skills in the clubs of New York and on tour in Europe and the Far East. She has performed and recorded with such jazz greats as: Phil Woods, Slide Hampton, David “Fathead” Newman and Bob Dorough and has toured Japan, The United States and Mexico. A favorite of other vocalists as well, Nancy has sung back-up on numerous CDs, movie sound tracks, and commercial jingles and can be heard on the duo recording, A Time For Love with David Leonhardt.

Matthew Parish - Bass
A rising star of the jazz bass, Matthew Parrish has performed with: Clark Terry, Marian McPartland and Harry “Sweets” Edison. He has performed or recorded with: Regina Carter, Wynton Marsalis, Ravi Coltrane, Mickey Roker, Bobby Durham, Shirley Scott, Al Grey, Stefon Harris, and Greg Osby. He has performed on four continents and is a regular on the Philadelphia jazz scene and numerous jazz recordings.

Paul Wells - Drums
A native of Pittsburgh Paul has been an in demand percussionist on the New York jazz scene for years. He has performed and recorded with a many jazz greats and was recently the drummer on a national tour with rocker Debbie Harry of Blondie fame. He also holds the drum chair in The Duke Ellington Legacy Band. A versatile musician with years of experience, he has performed with: Joe Williams, Norman Simmons, Randy Brecker, Eric Alexander, Larry Goldings, Rufus Reid, Mark Murphy, Rick Margitza, Dave Valentin, and Houston Person.

Andrea Wood Stays in the Top 20 for her 2nd week

Andrea Wood Holds Strong on the CMJ Jazz Chart 

For Her Second Week

As a native of the cosmopolitan city of Washington D.C with a passion for travel and music from around the world, cultural immersion and diversity have always been a driving inspiration for vocalist Andrea Wood’s unique musical style. With her hauntingly rich vocals and intuitive feel for the music, Andrea brings a distinctively eclectic approach to Jazz singing in over four languages and incorporating American Swing, bebop and Soul music along with the styles of the Caribbean, France and Brazil.

Music has always been a singular force in Andrea’s life. Born into a musical family, her mother began teaching her the piano at age five. As a child, she spent three years in the vibrant city of Prague, Czech Republic, the birthplace of Bohemian culture, where 12-dollar symphonies were ubiquitous and gypsy Jazz could be heard echoing down narrow, cobblestone streets. She played leading roles in school musicals and was a regularly featured soloist in church choirs throughout grade school. Upon returning to the US, Andrea studied classical voice and piano at the prestigious Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington D.C. It was at Ellington that she first dove into Jazz, working closely with mentor and Jazz band director Davey Yarborough.

Andrea went on to earn a Bachelor of Music degree in Jazz Performance at Michigan State University in May of 2009, studying with vocalist Sunny Wilkinson. At MSU, Andrea sang lead soprano for the top vocal ensemble and was the selected vocalist for the top Jazz band led by internationally acclaimed bassist and program director Rodney Whitaker. Andrea studied reggae music and culture during a study abroad in Kingston, Jamaica in 2007, where she sang and worked with noted reggae band The Fab Five of Jamaica.

After graduating from MSU, Andrea spent four months living and performing in Toulouse, France with a trio of local Jazz musicians.

Andrea is currently performing with her own group in Washington D.C as well as with Afrikan Rhapsody, led by former Femi Kuti drummer Tosin Aribisala. With Afrikan Rhapsody, Andrea sings in both English and Yoruba and performs in New York City as well as Washington D.C. She will attend the Manhattan School of Music in the fall of 2011, studying Jazz voice with New York Voices member and co-founder Peter Eldridge.

Andrea has performed at notable venues including the Kennedy Center, Constitution Hall, Twins Jazz Club, the Atlas Theater, and the Smithsonian in Washington D.C, as well as the historic Bakers Keyboard Lounge in Detroit, Michigan and La Mandala in Toulouse, France. She has also performed at the JVC Jazz Festival in New York City, DC’s Adams Morgan Day Festival, and gave an award-wining performance at the Lionel Hampton Jazz Festival in Moscow, Idaho.

She has been blessed with the opportunity to work and perform with many distinguished musicians of the day, including Dianne Reeves, Kevin Mahogany, Jon Faddis, Geoffrey Keezer, Larry Willis, Butch Warren, Ron Blake, Sean Jones, Tia Fuller, Benito Gonzalez, Randy Gillespie, Tosin Aribisala, Dennis Williams, Rodney Whitaker, Walter Blanding, Wessell “Warmdaddy” Anderson and Denyce Graves.

Nasar Abadey Continues to chart for 5 weeks at CMJ

Nasar Abadey Continues a First Grip on the

CMJ Jazz Chart, 5 weeks strong

This week at #20

Drummer and Composer Nasar Abadey is the founder, leader and driving force of his band SUPERNOVA®. Though a bandleader for many years he has also built a solid reputation as a sideman with several groups from his home base in Washington, DC and has recorded with many local and national artists throughout his career. Abadey began playing drums at age five and received his first drum set at age 16. Inspired by Tony Williams, Max Roach, Roy Haynes, Elvin Jones and his cousin Frankie Dunlop, this Washington DC resident creates jazz music steeped in modal, free form, fusion, and avant-garde styles. He is Professor of Jazz Percussion at Peabody Institute of The Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, MD; teaches privately, and conducts workshops and master classes in the DC metropolitan area. His debut CD, Mirage was released on the Amosaya Record Label and a follow-up CD, Diamond In The Rough, was released on the DPCMusic label in 2011.

Abadey has performed with many of the greats in the jazz world. Among his credits are Amiri Baraka, Dizzy Gillespie, Charlie Rouse, Gary Bartz, David Sanchez, Cyrus Chestnut, Sonny Fortune, Ella Fitzgerald, Eartha Kitt, Kenny Kirkland, Gary Thomas, Stanley Turrentine, Sun Ra, Frank Morgan, Bobby Hutcherson, Pharaoh Sanders, Malachi Thompson and many others. Additionally, he has appeared in various festivals including, San Remo Jazz Festival (Italy), Montreal Jazz Festival (Canada), Cap City Jazz Festival (DC), Virgin Island Jazz Festival (Caribbean), JVC Jazz Festival (NYC), Morocco (Africa), Chicago Jazz Festival, Iowa City Jazz Festival, D.C. Loft Jazz Festival, Atlanta Jazz Festival, Mellon Bank Jazz Festival, (Philadelphia), The East Coast Jazz Festival (DC), the Free World Jazz Festival (DC), International Children’s Festival (Seattle), Guatemala City Jazz Festival, Duke Ellington Festival (DC), Mid-Atlantic Jazz Fest (DC) and DC Jazz Festival among others. He has toured Europe, Africa and the Caribbean. Most recently SUPERNOVA was selected by the US State Department and the Lincoln Center to tour with the American Music Abroad Rhythm Road for 2010. This one month tour took them to five (5) countries in East Africa; Rwanda, Uganda, Ethiopia, Zambia, and Mozambique. He attended University of Buffalo, in NY; Howard University, and the University of the District of Columbia in Washington, DC.

Joe Ford (saxophone) is a passionate saxophonist who began playing in 1958 while in elementary school in Buffalo, New York. His melodious, humorous, dark and insightful style reflects the broad spectrum of the American experience, and ranges from spirituals, country, and rural blues to contemporary musical concepts and avant-garde jazz. Ford is classically trained and his influences include Sidney Bechet, John Coltrane, and Sonny Rollins. He has worked with musicians such as Frank Foster, McCoy Tyner, and the Fort Apache Band. His original postbop tunes can be found on his album Today’s Nights. Ford received his Bachelor of Science in music education at Central State University, Wilberforce, Ohio.

James King (bassist) and composer was born in Houston, Texas. James studied at Texas Southern University, Hampton University, and the University of the District of Colombia. He is a well-known bassist in the mid-Atlantic region, and performs in concerts and festival throughout the world. Mr. King has lived and worked in and around the Washington, D.C. area since 1977. He has performed with Elvin Jones, Sonny Fortune, Stanley Turrentine, Gary Bartz, Marlena Shaw, Frank Morgan, Mulgrew Miller and Milt Jackson, just to name a few. King is a very gifted composer with a lyrical bass style. His debut cd is entitled “Allen’s Odyssey” and was released in 2009.

Allyn Johnson (pianist) and composer, and arranger was born in Washington, and is currently the Director of Jazz Studies; and a graduate of the University of the District of Columbia. He has worked with Andrew White, Frank Morgan, Sonny Fortune, and Stanley Turrentine among others. His recent debut recording “Premonition” with the trio Three for All, is a perfect environment to showcase several of his compositions. Mr. Johnson has also arranged, composed recorded “Divine Order.” His style is lyrical, fiery and bright. He is a very talented and gifted pianist.

Troy Roberts Brings NU-JIVE to the CMJ Jazz Charts

Troy Roberts debuts on the CMJ Jazz Chart at #26

Troy Roberts began playing the saxophone at age 13, and was granted an early entrance into The West  Australian Academy of Performing Arts (WAAPA) just two years later. During this time, he won the PJS Encouragement Award for two consecutive years, performed at the 2000 Olympics, The Manly Jazz Festival, and other shows around Australia with the West Australian Youth Jazz Orchestra. In 2001 he graduated with a Bachelor of Music (Jazz Performance) degree at the young age of 19, winning the acclaimed Bob Wyllie Jazz Scholarship, the Melville Toyota Jazz Scholarship and the James Morrison Jazz Scholarship.

The following year he completed an Honors Degree on a student exchange program at the University of Miami, studying with Ron Miller, Gary Keller, Whit Sidner, James Moody, Dave Leibman and Frank Foster. During this time, he also won 2 Downbeat Awards (“Outstanding Soloist” and “Best Group Performance”) and performed with many great American musicians such as Ernesto Simpson, Kevin Mahogany and Silvano Monasterios. Troy returned to Australia in 2003 to record live at the Sydney Opera House on James Morrison’s album and DVD, “On The Edge”, which was immediately proceeded by 2 European tours with Morrison.

In 2004 Troy performed at the Fremantle Jazz Festival and the Perth International Arts Festival with trumpeter Ingrid Jenson (Canada) and drummer Jon Wikan (New York) before heading back to Europe with James Morrison to headline the Burghausen Jazz Festival in Germany. More notable performances that year include him as a soloist with the West Australian Symphony Orchestra, performances with Simon Stockhausen (Germany), Gary Bartz (NY), and Christoph Spendel (Germany). Troy also sustained a fruitful 3-year residency at the Llama Bar (Perth, West Australia) with his original project, “VOID” (Winner’s of the PJS’s “Best Original Jazz Act Award” for 2005, and the “2007 West Australian Music Industry Award”).

Troy recorded his debut album Soul Garbage (Morrison Records) and VOID’s debut album and DVD before traveling to the U.S.A. in 2005 where he acquired a Masters degree and taught mostly jazz
saxophone at the University of Miami, and was the recipient of the Downbeat “Best Soloist Award” for 2005 and 2006. He commenced 2006 with performances at the I.A.J.E. (International Association of Jazz Educators) Conference in New York with the “Bop Brothers Jazz Sextet”, 3 European tours with Morrison, and VOID’s 1st European tour. Winning yet another 2 Downbeat Music Awards, 2007 was a busy year, with two successful USA tours, including performances and television appearances in Texas, L.A., San Fransisco, Santa Barbara, Miami, the I.A.J.E. Conference, NYC and headlining the Houston International Jazz Festival. VOID was also the proud recipient of the 2007 WAMI Award for Best Original Jazz Act.

Troy received his first Grammy Nomination medal for his performance on Sammy Figueroa’s album, The Magician (nominated for “Best Latin Jazz Album”), and has performed shows with Figueroa around Miami, NYC, and Europe. His freelance schedule over the years have included performances with: Figueroa, Melton Mustafa, Jonathan Joseph, James Morrison, Dave Grusin, Mike Rodrigues, Ludwig Afonso, Robby Ameen, Lew Soloff, Ed Calle, Ronnie Cuber, Marshall Gilkes, Slide Hampton, Dennis Macrell, Patti Austin, Arturo Sandoval, Kevin Mahogany, Obed Calvier, Rashawn Ross, Billy Drummond, Jeff Hamilton, John Clayton, and hip-hop/R&B legend, Lauryn Hill to name a few.

Troy launched his 3rd album, The XenDen Suite – an 8-part suite for jazz quartet and string quartet – in his hometown of Perth, West Australia, and also in the USA whilst in L.A. as the only Australian semi-finalist in the 2008 Thelonious Monk International Jazz Saxophone Competition. Just after winning yet another DownBeat Jazz Soloist Award for 2010, his debut DVD – The XenDen Suite LIVE – was released in the USA and Australia soon after. Troy is currently on Adjunct Faculty at The University of Miami, has just released his new album Nu-Jive (2011) and continues to maintain a busy performance and recording schedule around the globe.

John Samorian Secures the #34 slot at CMJ this week

John Samorian's Out on a LImb, Is Winning
 Ears Across the Globe
Securing the #34 Slot

John Samorian has been a professional musician for 29 years (he’s older than he looks). John received his bachelor’s degree in Jazz education from the University of North Texas, and his Jazz Performance Masters degree from the University of South Florida. He has performed with such notable groups as Blood, Sweat and Tears as well as his own groups throughout Europe and Asia, and in every state of the Union except Alaska, Idaho, and Montana, but he’ll get there before he’s done.

John is married to the singer/actress Kim Shriver, and they recently welcomed their first child, Emma Joy. Kim has performed professionally in musical theatre since 1988. She most recently appeared in the Broadway revival of A Chorus Line. She’s proud of her accomplishments in theatre and is thrilled to be making her jazz debut. Kim grew up singing in her church choir and enjoys all styles of music, but jazz is her new love. They are currently on the road with the National tour of Jersey Boys where John is the conductor.

OUT ON A LIMB is an offering that features all original compositions and lyrics by jazz vocalist and pianist, John Samorian, with the exception of “Magic Morning,” music by Dan Haerle, lyrics by John Samorian.

John and his lovely guest artist Kim Shriver perform the vocals; John, playing piano, is joined by a trio of great musicians from the New York area. What makes this release so special is, not only the swinging sensibilities of the originals, but the accomplished musicianship and the polished vocal delivery. Samorian and Shriver engage you immediately with a sound that feels like a longtime friend. Comfortable, warm and inviting, but don’t let this ease of delivery fool you, there is sincere technique and passion within each cut. John and Kim both have a pedigreed background in theater, which is where many of the jazz standards originated. It is clearly evident in Samorian’s lyrical rationale; you feel as if you are listening to the classic composers of ole.

Samorian not only is a veteran vocalist, but his abilities as a musician and ensemble leader are superior; he
arpeggiates with speed and agility across the keys, certainly matching any instrumentalist album in musicianship and ability. Samorian’s abilities are put to good use and the backing trio is up to the task, swingin’ with every fiber in their beings. The group delivers the essence of each song with style and clear focus. An excellent offering in every way and certainly a welcomed addition to any jazz collection, the biggest decision is whether to put it in your favorite vocal section or your favorite composers section. Either way, Out on a Limb will brighten your collected works.

Mystéfy lands on the Top Jazz Adds Chart

Mystéfy Lands on the Top Jazz Adds Chart for CMJ

Her First Week in Radio Promotions

This German born Canadian resident is a true storyteller. After the highly acclaimed debut CD, Spark Within, Mystéfy continues her musical journey with Me: Unvarnished and intimate are the songs she wrote for her new album. This doesn’t imply all tunes on Me are autobiographical – but everything Mystéfy composes and sings about relates to her, and reflects impressions and experiences Mystéfy has shared and lived through. Stories happening in her world, mostly true, sometimes altered, exaggerated or told in a witty fashion.

Mystéfy is highly intuitive and sensitive to her surroundings and easily picks up vibes – this is why her lyrics are intense, her songs are touching, yet put listeners at ease. Mystéfy embraces what we humans are made of: she is close to our emotions.

Also, Mystéfy is a practitioner – and this reflects on her life and music. She is your nice-neighbor-next-door kind of artist, no diva, no jazz singer who goes out to revamp the same old songs. Alas, she sang jazz standards, on many stages, and has a repertoire of over a hundred of them. But it wasn’t enough. With her classically trained voice and a range of over 3 octaves, she prefers to charm listeners with self-penned songs. Also, she loves to entertain. Her secret – the artist names says it all: Mystéfy is a mystic by soul. An emigrant and hence a natural at being home in different worlds, she is a spiritual being, a singer/songwriter, and a passionate painter. No surprise then that she has access to a greater artistry palette than many others.

Mystéfy also loves horseback riding, her garden and feels at home anywhere near water – be it an ocean or a mere creek. The zodiac sign of this visionary mermaid? Almost needless to say: Piscean – the fishes!

Andrea Wood is reviewed by This is Books Music

THIS IS BOOK'S MUSIC

BY: JOHN BOOK
REVIEW: Andréa Wood’s “Dhyana”

There is not a shortage of jazz music out there, and that includes new music. If you follow my reviews, you’ll know this to be true. Vocal jazz are a dime a dozen, and I normally don’t use cliches in my reviews but in this case there are times when vocal jazz is a style of music I fear. However, when you have a singer who breaks out of the comfortable mode the genre has created for itself, I want to be open to what they may offer. Welcome Andréa Wood.

Upon looking at the video, I will admit into putting on the cliche hat and going “okay, let’s see what this person will be doing”, but almost done with a grimace. You know what changed my mind? The band. It doesn’t sound like it was recorded today, there’s that nice drum reverb, I’m hearing the room and immediately I thought “wow, if the music sounds like this, how is this singer going to compliment it?” Then she started to sing and I was like “this… is her?” Then I look at the album credits, and Wood herself produced the album. Whoa, I thought, followed by “who… is this?” This is Andréa Wood.

What I hear is someone who is not only well versed in the music she covers, but also knows the true power of the human voice as a proper instrument. If anyone watches the NBC talent show The Voice, the premise is that one has to master the art of singing, as it’s not just a means to sing and sing well, or be loud. You have to know how to add depth and color into each song, and bring the words into your world as if you are the one who wrote the songs, and Wood does this in everything she does. To my ears, she sounds like a cross between Nnenna Frelon and Eliane Elias, and when she dabbles into a bit of bossa nova, you’ll swear she comes from Brazil and not Washington D.C. (I’m sure bossa nova purists will laugh at the notion, which is understandable, but she sounds comfortable when singing “Chega De Saudade” and “Pro Que Discutir Com Madame?”) Even if you have heard “Someday My Prince Will Come” countless times, this version may bring you to tears, and shows how deep into the emotion of the song she is willing to go.

I can hear her doing a wide range of music, not just jazz, but if this is her home, take off your slippers or shoes before entering and see how she has decorated the place. I hope to hear much more music from Wood in the next few years.

Melvin Jones is reviewed by Something Else Reviews

Half Notes: Melvin Jones - Pivot (2011)
Listening to this record before I even read Melvin Jones’ liner notes, I already knew what he meant by the title of this debut album by him. It’s an album that has many shades of jazz on display, and the constant is the pure, malleable trumpet voice of Jones. So I had to nod in agreement when I read Jones’ words in the sleeve: “There is a…applicable understanding of the word which is ‘to turn our focus in various directions without losing our original position’.” Though his first record as a leader, there’s nothing green about it: Jones produced and wrote all the thirteen tracks on it. Using a capable crew for a classic jazz quintet setting (trumpet/sax/piano/bass/drums) and supplementing it with some well placed guest spots by others, Jones “pivots” seamlessly through the Afro-Latin energy of “The Jug-Or-Knot”, the genteel 60s Blue Note vibe of “Inner Tubes,” the complex, shifty rhythms of “Dizzyspell,” and funky soul strut of “Funkytown Shuffle.” Starting his professional career in a big way—a guest spot on TLC’s blockbuster Fanmail album (1998)—the Atlanta-based Jones has performed and taught the world over,playing all over the musical map, too. Pivot is the distillation of a musician’s varied and rich experiences.

Half Notes is a quick-take music feature on Something Else! Reviews, presented whenever the mood strikes us.Pivot was issued on April 26, by Turnaround Records. Check out Melvin Jones’ website here

Andrea Wood is reviewed by Oliver di Place

Oliver di Place

Musings on music. New Discoveries and Old Favorites.

by:  Darius Rips

Andrea Wood: Comes Love

[purchase]

I often single out a jazz singer for their work on a ballad, and Andrea Wood does fine with those. In particular, her version of Someday My Prince Will Come is a jaw dropper. But Wood and her band really shine on the uptempo songs as well. Comes Love is a standard, and it is a playful and flirty song. But Wood also renders it as a funky workout, and it really cooks. The rhythm section hits it hard, and Wood rides the wave on top, but she never has to shout. The band takes a flight of fancy in the solo section in the middle, and it all comes back together beautifully, so Wood can take it home. This is a great way to open an album, and varied pleasures follow. Wood also shows a fine feel for Brazilian-flavored songs.

Topping the Charts at #4 This Week

The Melvin Jones Quintet performs "Jug-Or-Knot," an original composition and the first track from Melvin Jones' debut album, "Pivot." Recorded at Churchill Grounds in Atlanta, GA on April 9, 2011. Includes trumpet, piano, saxophone, bass, and drum solos.

Melvin Jones - trumpet
Mace Hibbard - saxophone
Louis Heriveaux - piano
Rodney Jordon - bass
Marlon Patton - drums

Alekos Galas is reviewed by Improvijazzation Nation

by:  Rotcod Zzaj


Alekos Galas – MEDITERRANEAN BREEZE: Music that conveys a joy for live & the living is always welcome in my listening zone, no where the breezes are blowing from.  This is my first listen to Alekos’ fine music & I can assure you it won’t be my last… the opener, “Bouzouki Spice” is vibrant and swirling, a sonic whirlpool that will carry your spirit to the edges of the ether!  11 beautiful tunes featuring nearly as many players, with Alekos’ on Bouzouki (an instrument I’ve not heard before)… the percussion intro on “Cielo” leads right into another tune that you can easily imagine gypsy ladies dancing to by a moonlit fire.  This December 2010 self-produced release earns a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, especially for those who want a taste of “world” in their sonic adventures.  Truly stunning production and some of the finest sense of wonderment I’ve heard yet this year!  It gets an “EQ” (energy quotient) rating of 4.97.  Get more information at http://alekosgalas.com/ Rotcod Zzaj

The David Leonhardt Jazz Group Moves Up The Jazzweek Chart to #33

David Leonhardt Moves up the 

Jazzweek Chart to #33 This Week

**Charting for a total of 5 weeks, so far**

With over forty years of experience as a professional pianist, David Leonhardt is a true veteran of the music world. A road warrior; he has played across the world with some of the greatest jazz musicians around. Larry McKenna, at seventy one years of age, is the dean of Philadelphia jazz saxophonists and is revered as a legend there. Matthew Parrish is a virtuoso acoustic bassist with a growing international reputation. Nancy Reed, an undiscovered gem on vocals, has an underground following of devoted fans. Pittsburg drummer Paul Wells has toured with Deb bie Harryof Blondie fame as well as a host of jazz legends. Truly this is a group of some the top jazz musicians on the planet!

David Leonhardt - Piano
David Leonhardt is a critically acclaimed and highly popular jazz pianist who has appeared successfully at the International Arts Festival of Shenzen in China, the Winnipeg Jazz Festival, The French Maison de Dance in Lyon, as well festivals and concerts throughout the United States. He has been heard at The Apollo Theater, The Blue Note, Birdland, The Village Gate and other New York area nightclubs. He was musical director for jazz vocal legend Jon Hendricks for four years and has played for over fifteen years as the pianist in The David “Fathead” Newman Quartet. Mr. Leonhardt has numerous CDs, under his own name, is the president of Big Bang Records, is on the Roster of The Pennsylvania Arts On Tour and has performed with an array of jazz stars from Art Blakey to Benny Carter to Dave Liebman to Diane Reeves.

Larry McKenna - Saxophone
Larry McKenna is Philadelphia’s best kept jazz secret. A legend in the creative jazz scene there for over fifty years, Larry’s status as a jazz great has been affirmed by his myriad fans and the jazz stars with whom he has played and recorded including: Woody Herman, Clark Terry, Buddy DeFranco, Tony Bennett, Rosemary Clooney and Frank Sinatra. He is known for his gorgeous, velvety sound, the unparalleled beauty of his balladry, and his fluid, bebop-inspired improvisations. At seventy two years of age he is also an educator and skilled arranger and is considered the dean of the Philadelphia saxophonists. He first went on the road with Woody Herman’s big band in 1958!

Nancy Reed - vocals
The daughter of a jazz pianist and an opera singer, Nancy grew up in Brooklyn amid the musically rich culture of New York City. She has sung professionally for over twenty years, honing her skills in the clubs of New York and on tour in Europe and the Far East. She has performed and recorded with such jazz greats as: Phil Woods, Slide Hampton, David “Fathead” Newman and Bob Dorough and has toured Japan, The United States and Mexico. A favorite of other vocalists as well, Nancy has sung back-up on numerous CDs, movie sound tracks, and commercial jingles and can be heard on the duo recording, A Time For Love with David Leonhardt.

Matthew Parish - Bass
A rising star of the jazz bass, Matthew Parrish has performed with: Clark Terry, Marian McPartland and Harry “Sweets” Edison. He has performed or recorded with: Regina Carter, Wynton Marsalis, Ravi Coltrane, Mickey Roker, Bobby Durham, Shirley Scott, Al Grey, Stefon Harris, and Greg Osby. He has performed on four continents and is a regular on the Philadelphia jazz scene and numerous jazz recordings.

Paul Wells - Drums
A native of Pittsburgh Paul has been an in demand percussionist on the New York jazz scene for years. He has performed and recorded with a many jazz greats and was recently the drummer on a national tour with rocker Debbie Harry of Blondie fame. He also holds the drum chair in The Duke Ellington Legacy Band. A versatile musician with years of experience, he has performed with: Joe Williams, Norman Simmons, Randy Brecker, Eric Alexander, Larry Goldings, Rufus Reid, Mark Murphy, Rick Margitza, Dave Valentin, and Houston Person.