Wednesday, March 31, 2010

Diana Krall's forthcoming DVD - "Live in Australia"

Madeleine Peyroux and Melody Gardot Join Krall On Tour - Performance with Queensland Symphony Orchestra Filmed For Forthcoming DVD

Diana Krall has just returned to the U.S. from a very successful 12-date tour of New Zealand and Australia that included performances under the stars in the region's largest cities and at some of its most charming vineyards as part of the Day On The Green concert series. Regardless of the venue, Krall was "in dazzling, compelling, vibrant form" (Melbourne Herald Sun), playing selections from her top-selling album "Quiet Nights" (Verve).

The bill featured an impressive lineup of talented female artists, with Melody Gardot opening the evening, followed by Madeleine Peyroux. Diana and her quartet then closed the show. For many of the larger concerts, the artists were supported by a 42-piece local orchestra, enabling Southern Hemisphere audiences to hear the selections from "Quiet Nights" as they were recorded, with the magnificent arrangements that earned Claus Ogerman a Grammy Award for his work on the title track.

"Quiet Nights," a gold selling album in Australia, re-entered the Australian pop albums charts while Krall was on tour peaking at #14, a new high mark for the album. "Quiet Nights" also reached #1 on the Jazz Albums chart and maintained a spot in the top 5 for several weeks.

The performances Down Under were so well received that Universal Music and the three artists decided to team up to capture the March 3 concert at Brisbane Entertainment Centre, where Diana's quartet (with Bob Hurst, Karriem Riggins and Anthony Wilson) was joined by The Queensland Orchestra (conducted by New Zealand-born maestro Alan Broadbent), for a forthcoming DVD - scheduled for release next September on the Verve label as the follow-up to Krall's superb "Live in Rio," the Best Jazz DVD of 2009 in the 31st Annual Jazz Station Poll.

Highlights from Krall's 90-minute set, which as always opened with “I Love Being Here With You”: "P.S. I Love You" (the Gordon Jenkins' haunting ballad, not the Beatles hit), “Do It Again” (the Gershwin tune, not the Steely Dan song), “Let’s Fall In Love,” "I've Grown Accustomed to His Face" and, specially, her explosive latin-tinged version of Tom Waits’ “Jockey Full Of Bourbon,” which she had already performed at the Sava Center in Belgrade last November, receiving a standing ovation.

Of the sold-out Brisbane show, The Courier-Mail said: "Her Cool, stylish performance on the keys appears almost effortless. With a seductive and breathy contralto voice, she offers up sublime phrasing of lyrics." Adding that the orchestra offered a "lush element" to the performance.

Watch the video for Diana Krall's song "Quiet Nights": http://www.vevo.com/watch/diana-krall/quiet-nights-video/GBC250900840
Diana Krall's Tour of New Zealand and Australia included stops in:
Christchurch, NZ - Westpac Trust (w/ orchestra)
Wellington, NZ - TSB Stadium (w/ orchestra)
Auckland, NZ - A Day On The Green @ Villa Maria
Perth, AUS - A Day On The Green @ Kings Park (w/ orchestra) (two shows)
Melbourne, AUS - Rod Laver Arena (w/ orchestra)
Adelaide, AUS - A Day On The Green @ Peter Lehmann Wines
Brisbane, AUS - Entertainment Centre (w/ orchestra)
Sydney, AUS - Entertainment Centre (w/ orchestra)
New South Wales, AUS - A Day On The Green @ Bimbadgen Estate
New South Wales, AUS - A Day On The Green @ Centennial Vineyards
Victoria, AUS - A Day On The Green @ Rochford Wines

Gina Saputo live @ Angel's, tomorrow night, with the Ryan Roberts Trio

Another great option for tomorrow night if you are in the California area. Vocal jazz stylist Gina Saputo will be appearing on April 1st (starting 9pm) @ Angels Supper Club (2460 Wilshire Blvd.) in Santa Monica with Ryan Roberts (acoustic bass) and Andrew Synoweic (guitar), performing originals, modern jazz selections and some standards. Not to be missed.

Obama: "Because of you"

"Dear Arnaldo:

According to our files, you are currently living in California's 30th congressional district.

"It's because of you." That's what President Obama said before he took the stage in Iowa City right after health care reform passed. And I couldn't agree more.

We've put together a quick video that highlights the incredible work you did over the last year, to honor and thank you for the history you made.

Please watch the video, then celebrate by co-signing health care reform legislation with the President.

We're offering a personalized certificate to every co-signer to make sure we can all have a way to commemorate this victory with the President.

So check out the video, pass it along to your friends, and co-sign historic health reform with President Obama:
http://my.barackobama.com/ThisIsChange

Thanks for everything,

Jeremy Bird
Deputy Director - Organizing for America"

P.S. -- Great news: In addition to health and student loan reform, there's even more change happening.

Thanks in large part to tax benefits in the Recovery Act, average tax refunds are up by almost 10 percent from last year.

And President Obama announced a new Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty with Russia, calling it "the most comprehensive arms control agreement in nearly two decades."

Keep checking your email, and we'll let you know about more great news as it comes in.

Sony Holland back to Charlie O's, April 1st

Sony Holland is a warm, inviting performer whose unaffected style brims with the infectious joy of singing. This Thursday, April 1st, after her successful gig there last February, she'll be once again jamming @ Charlie O's (13725 Victory Blvc., Valley Glenn, CA, ph: 818-994-3058) with Theo Saunders (piano), Chris Conner (bass), Tony Austin (drums) & Thom Rotella (guitar).

Born in a tiny town north of Minneapolis, Ms. Holland has toured Asia, performed in prestigious jazz festivals and in premier nightclubs such as the Blue Note, Yoshi's, Catalina's, the Dakota, the Rrazz Room and many more. Yet catching one of her live performances one gets a feeling that the best is yet to come.

She has recently relocated to Los Angeles, having performed at Steamers, Left Coast Wine Bar and Culver's Club (at Radisson Hotel) in the past few months. "In order to take it to the next level you have to work with the best musicians and producers and they are here in L.A." the singer explains. "My technique, style and repertoire are always evolving and that's the way it should be" she adds. "I hope to sing better next year than I do now."

"For me the highest tribute comes from people who are moved by my music. I understand. I've had very emotional reactions when I've seen artists like Nancy Wilson, Tony Bennett, etc. A great instrumentalist can wring so much out of a song as well. That's what I'm shooting for every chance I get."

"I am new to LA, so it is really nice to get to know people on the local music scene, which
is FANTASTIC. The musicians and singers are so talented here," Holland says. Raised in Minnesota, she lived in Nashville during the '90s, moved to San Francisco six years ago (where she built a cult-following among Bay Area jazz fans), and now she is in Los Angeles.

Sony has been compared to Nancy Wilson as well as to June Christy and Peggy Lee. It's easy to notice an influence of Tony Benett too. "Sony Holland has a warm deep voice and a very clear tone. One can always understand the words she is singing yet she is not shy to improvise," the renowned jazz writer Scott Yanow once wrote.

"Repertoire for my show will be a wide mix. Like many singers I am including more contemporary songs into my show along with the standards," she tells us. "So along with songs by Harry Warren, Johnny Mercer and Duke Ellington, there will also be songs by Rufus Wainwright ("Sansoucci"), Bob Dylan ("All I Really Want to Do"), and even a jazz/reggae version of a song by Carla Bruni & William Yeats, "Those Dancing Days Are Gone." Also, I sing a few wonderful original songs written by my husband Jerry Holland (originally from New York City) though he has written a #1 Billboard Country song" ("Friends,” recorded by John Michael Montgomery.)

Hope she will also include Hoagy Carmichael's "The Nearness of You" (the theme song of Arnaldo DeSouteiro's radio show at TUPI-FM during the 80s, in a recording by Roland Hanna) and Jobim's "Meditation" on the setlist.

Pat Metheny in LA, April 19

Pat Metheny is coming to Los Angeles, CA, for a performance @ Disney Concert Hall on April 19, to present his new project, "Orchestrium." Tickets are on sale now.
Go to PatMetheny.com for the latest tour and record info.

Two free downloads

Two of the highlights from a new compilation (Maurice Fulton remix ofFred Everything and the Emperor Machine remix of Random Factor) are now available for FREE DOWNLOAD (MP3 and WAV format) for just two days.
Click here to get these.
Move fast if you want to download these for free.
Enjoy the holidays!

Tuesday, March 30, 2010

Michelle Zangara live @ Zana's, NY, April 1st

Michelle Zangara @ Zana's Restaurant
Thirty Thirty Hotel

April 1st, starting 8pm
30 East 30 Street, BTW Park and Madison Avenues, NYC


Michelle Zangara (vocals) & Dida Pelled (guitar).

"I'll be singing my favorite tunes along with Dida Pelled, a phenomenal jazz guitarist who performs ' round the city with her own band," says Michelle. "And Zana's is quite lovely. Enjoy the Fine Italian Cuisine, Ravioli and Pizza! Cheesecake is divine! Excellent Wines. Staff are so Friendly and Caring."

The setlist will probably include Gershwin's classic "Fascinating Rhythm," Jobim's bossa nova anthem "Corcovado," Dave Frishberg's cult-hit "Peel Me A Grape" plus "Save Your Love For Me," "Makin' Whopee," "I Wish You Love" (one of João Gilberto's personal favorite songs), "Caravan" and "Let's Do It."

Dining at the Thirty Thirty Hotel in New York City is a memorable experience. They offer several distinctive dining settings to satisfy every taste: Zana's, their acclaimed restaurant featuring Chef Antonio and his unsurpassed Mediterranean cuisine, a chic evening cocktail bar and lounge, and in-room dining.

Zana's - lounge, bar and dining room - welcomes Zana's, where Chef Antonio serves the same calibre Mediterranean cuisine that made Arte in the Village so popular.
Setting: Casual atmosphere
Seats 75
Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner 7 days a week
Hours of operation: Monday-Saturday 8:00 AM-11:00 PM and Sunday 8:00 AM-11:00
For Reservations: (212) 481-3717

NARM 2010 in Chicago

NARM and A2IM Invite You To The Music Business Crash Course.

Get the real picture of the music business - where it's been, where it stands now and where it's going - at the NARM/A2IM Music Business Crash Course. Presented by NARM, the music business association, in collaboration with the American Association of Independent Music (A2IM) and facilitated by A2IM President Richard Bengloff, this 1.5 day experience - to be held May 14-15 at The Hilton Chicago - is open to non-members and available for less than 100 bucks. The Crash Course delivers relevant knowledge for real-world application. From listening to artist and label panels for early career advice to understanding effective social networking and promotional techniques, the Crash Course helps attendees learn how to turn creative music into profits.

GET THE KNOWLEDGE, RESOURCES AND TOOLS FOR
NAVIGATING THE INDUSTRY.

Here's a sneak preview of what's happening at this year's Crash Course:
HOW TO EXPAND INCOME BEYOND RECORDED MUSIC - Find out the secrets to maximizing publishing and licensing income and explore other outlets for earning more.

STARTING A LABEL (AND KEEPING IT RUNNING) - Learn the tips to managing a start-up record label on a cost-effective basis.

GOING TO MARKET - PHYSICAL, DIGITAL AND MOBILE - Understand how to make your music reach further in the digital and mobile markets with ideas on how to spotlight your release.

ARTIST AND LABEL ECONOMICS - Explore the key economic decisions that artists and labels must be ready to make. It's not just about the creative.

And there is much more. See the full schedule by clicking here.

COMPLETE YOUR CRASH COURSE EXPERIENCE.

Put the Crash Course on your calendar from May 14-15, and get the connections, the resources and the knowledge to make a bigger impact on the industry.

Use the link below to register for the event and even book a room at the Hilton Chicago - this year's official host hotel. You never know who you might run into at the NARM Music Business Crash Course. When you book your room, you guarantee the most convenient way to make unexpected connections.

Learn More About The 2010 NARM Convention:

Registration & Hotel Booking
Schedule Of Events
Crash Course
Media Credentials
Confirmed Appearances
Confirmed Speakers
Advertising & Sponsorship
Hotel & City Guide

Obama - "Another victory: Student loan reform"

"Dear Arnaldo:

Our records show that you currently live in California's 30th congressional district.

In Spring 2007, on a conference call with students, then-Senator Barack Obama called for major reform to federal student loans:

"We shouldn't be providing billions in taxpayer-funded giveaways to private banks. We should be providing an affordable, accessible college education to every American."

This morning, President Obama signed those historic reforms into law.

Dr. Jill Biden, an educator for 29 years, just recorded a short video explaining what these groundbreaking reforms mean for education in America. Click here to watch.

The bill the President signed this morning includes historic investments to make education more affordable, and delivers on a key campaign promise. The legislation:
-- Ends subsidies to special-interest private lending companies.
-- Doubles funding for Pell Grants to help more students afford a college education.
-- Will cap a graduate's annual student-loan repayments at 10 percent of his or her income.
-- Helps an additional 5 million Americans earn degrees and certificates over the next decade, by revitalizing programming at our nation's community colleges.

It's a tremendous achievement, but the news may get lost in the excitement around the passage of comprehensive health care reform. So we need to make sure that when folks in Los Angeles open the local paper to the letters page this week, they'll see notes from their neighbors supporting these important reforms.

Can you help? Watch Dr. Biden's video and write a letter to the editor now -- we'll provide helpful talking points to get you started:

http://my.barackobama.com/StudentLoanReform

Thanks,

Mitch Stewart
Director - Organizing for America"

P.S. -- To celebrate passing comprehensive health care reform, OFA is holding celebration events across the country. Click here to find and join one near you:

http://my.barackobama.com/CelebrationEvents

Toph-E and the Pussycats & Tropea Band at the Canal Room

Toph-E and the Pussycats & Tropea Band
March 31, 2010, 8pm-11pm

Canal Room
285 West Broadway at Canal Street
New York, NY


Toph-E & the Pussycats will play the famed Canal Room on March 31st. The band features Clifford Carter on keys, Will Lee on bass and vocal, David Mann on tenor and soprano, Ralph MacDonald on percussion, and Chris Parker on drums.

Founded in 2000, Toph-E & The Pussycats is a group of wellrespected and professional musicians who share a great love for rhythm and blues-and play it in an experimental jazz context. Based in New York City, they share an impressive list of credits and career connections.

Chris Parker, drums, has been a member of The Brecker Brothers, Stuff, Joe Cool, and NBC's Saturday Night Live. He has toured with Bob Dylan, Bette Midler, Joe Cocker, Paul Simon and the legendary Stuff band. He has recorded with Donald Fagen, Ashford and Simpson, Eumir Deodato, Aretha Franklin, Natalie Cole, James Brown, Salt ‘n' Pepa, Miles Davis and Cher.
(Chris Parker)

Will Lee, on bass and vocals, hails from The Late Show with David Letterman on CBS, and The Fab Faux. He has performed and appeared on numerous recordings with Frank Sinatra, Bette Midler, Barbara Streisand, Mick Jagger, Steely Dan, Esther Phillips, Joe Beck, Deodato, Don Sebesky, Bob James, Kimiko Itoh, The Brecker Brothers, Richard Tee, David Matthews, Patti Austin and James Brown, to name a few.

Ralph MacDonald, percussionist and Grammy winning songwriter, started with Harry Belafonte when he was only 16 years old and went on to have Grammy winning hit records of his songs recorded by Bill Withers & Grover Washington Jr. ("Just the Two of Us"), Donny Hathaway and Roberta Flack ("Where is the Love?") plus Roberta's "No Tears In The End" and "When You Smile"), and Grover Washington, Tony Bennett and Esther Phillips, who covered "Mister Magic." He has performed on countless recordings with such artists as George Benson, Gabor Szabo, Bob James, Aretha Franklin, Luiz Bonfá, Esther Phillips, Hubert Laws, Ron Carter, Toots Thielemans, Blood Sweat & Tears, Tom Scott, and Jimmy Buffett.

Clifford Carter, on piano and keyboards, has been the pianist with Patti Scialfa, recorded and toured with James Taylor, Bryan Ferry, Idris Muhammad, David Matthews, Hank Crawford, Betty Buckley, Melissa Errico and Brethren Crazed Man and the Wildlife Ensemble.

David Mann, tenor and soprano saxophones, has released solo albums, most recently, "Touch," on N-Coded Music, as well as producing many other artists, like Wayman Tisdale, Nelson Rangell and Rachel Z. His recording credits are extensive, including Tower of Power, James Taylor, Paul Simon, Queen Latifah, Madonna, Bob James and Sting.
(John Tropea)

The bill also features the John Tropea Band consisting of John Tropea on guitar with Anthony Jackson on bass, Clint DeGanon on drums, Chris Palmaro on keys, and Lou Marini, tenor and soprano.

John Tropea is one of the most admired and highly regarded guitar players of his generation. His playing shows a vast knowledge and respect for the tradition of the instrument as well as an original style that continues to define how the guitar best serves a wide variety of musical styles. He is a musician's musician who attracts the finest players for his own projects. He came to prominence after doing a superb solo on the #2 Billboard pop hit "Also Sprach Zarathustra" (2001), by Deodato, CTI's best-selling recording ever. As a member of Eumir Deodato's band, he toured all over the world for seven years. For CTI he also recorded with Ray Barretto, Lalo Schifrin and Hubert Laws, having released many albums as a leader for the labels Marlin, DMP and VideoArts.

Tickets for the event are $15 and may be purchased online at www.canalroom.com or by calling the box office at 212-941-8100.

For more information, visit www.canalroom.com.

Kate Reid live @ Steamers, tonite!

TONITE, TUE, MAR 30, 8pm-MID NO COVER
KATE REID
Steamers Jazz Club and Cafe
138 W. Commonwealth Ave
Fullerton, CA 92832
714-871-8800

Kate Reid is a jazz singer and pianist in the Los Angeles area. Originally from Cuyahoga Falls, Ohio, Kate moved to southern California in the fall of 2002 with her husband of 10 years, trumpet player Steve Reid. These two musicians have enjoyed many musical opportunities while living in New York, New Orleans and Miami. California, though, is now home!

In April of last year, she teamed up with legendary jazz guitarist Ron Eschete and his trio. This quartet has been performing regularly in the jazz clubs of southern California. Other recent work includes recording for independent films and singing backing vocals for pop artist Liezl. Kate is also in demand as a jazz artist in Japan. Since 1998, she has been spending her summers performing in Tokyo with various japanese jazz musicians.

In the U.S., Kate has worked with many noted artists including Mark Murphy, Jon Hendricks, Joe Williams, Maynard Ferguson, Rosemary Clooney, Mercer Ellington, Paul Ellington and the Duke Ellington Orchestra, Della Reese, Don Shelton, Darmon Meader and the New York Voices, the Manhattan Transfer, Lionel Hampton, Bobby McFerrin, Kevin Mahogany, Liza Minelli, Tito Puente to name a few.

Kate has recorded for Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, Costa Cruise Lines, the Orange Bowl half-time and parade performances and various commercial spots since 1994. She also performed with Jon Secada as a backing vocalists for the release of his album "Amor" and was selected as one of four back-up vocalists for the recorded and nationally televised 'Summit of the Americas' broadcast produced by Quincy Jones in 1996. Kate was a semi-finalist in the 1998 Thelonius Monk Jazz Vocal Competition.

Dr. Kate Reid joined the faculty of Cypress College as head of the jazz program in the fall of 2002. She teaches the jazz vocal ensemble, jazz improvisation, jazz history, music theory and maintains an active private jazz voice studio at the college. In April of 2004, Dr. Reid conducted the college's vocal jazz ensemble at Carnegie Hall in New York City. She is in demand as a guest artist and clinician throughout the United States and Canada. Check her talents tonight and you'll be delighted.

Casting: Photoshoot in Saint Tropez

NEEDED: 1 x female model for a 2 day fashion catalogue photoshoot in Saint Tropez, FRANCE.

PAY: £2500 for 2 day shoot + £1000 usage rights.

CRITERIA:
- SEX: Female
- AGE: 25-30
- HAIR: Light Brown or Red
- BODY: Athletic, fit - not too thin and with ample breasts
- OTHER: Fair skin, (Friendly, happy smile and Freckles are a BIG plus!)

DATES: Casting and shoot dates to be confirmed

LOCATION: Saint Tropez, FRANCE (Full details to successful applicants)

If you are interested in applying and meet all the criteria, please send email to enquiries@dynamitemodels.com, putting "SAINT TROPEZ" in the subject line and including the following:

- Mobile Number
- Age
- Measurements (Height, Bust, Waist, Hips, Dress, Shoes)
- Clear head shot
- Clear FULL length shot

Monday, March 29, 2010

R.I.P.: Herb Ellis

(born Mitchell Herbert Ellis on August 4, 1921, in Farmersville, Texas, US;
died on March 28, 2010, in Los Angeles, California, US)

http://voices.washingtonpost.com/postmortem/2010/03/jazz-guitarist-herb-ellis-dies.html

Jazz guitarist Herb Ellis dies at 88

Renowned jazz guitarist Herb Ellis, 88, died at his home in Los Angeles on March 28. He had Alzheimer's disease.

The death was confirmed by his son, Mitchell Ellis.

Mr. Ellis was a member during the 1950s of the Oscar Peterson trio, which served as the house recording band for Verve Records and accompanied a who's-who of jazz greats, including Louis Armstrong, Roy Eldridge, Harry "Sweets" Edison and Ben Webster.

It has been said that in Herb Ellis, virtuoso jazz pianist Peterson found his truest musical peer.

Mr. Ellis was a Texan and a disciple of Charlie Christian, the guitar player who innovated horn-like electric guitar solos with the Benny Goodman band. In his youth, Mr. Ellis played with big bands such as Glen Gray's Casa Loma Orchestra and the Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra. In the late 1940s, he started the Soft Winds trio with pianist Lou Carter and bassist Johnny Frigo.

After his five-year stint with Peterson's trio in the 1950s, Mr. Ellis toured with Ella Fitzgerald and then settled in southern California, where he worked in movie and television studios before launching his own small jazz groups.

One of his most memorable venture was creating the Great Guitars with fellow jazz guitarists Barney Kessel and Charlie Byrd. At every show, these three peers challenged each other's dexterity in musical conversation.

Perhaps the greatest tribute to Ellis are these words from guitarist Les Paul, who instantly recognized his friend's style during one of Downbeat magazine's infamous blindfold tests.

Paul said, "If you're not swinging, he's gonna make you swing. Of the whole bunch of guys who play hollow-body guitar... I think Herb Ellis has got the most drive."

A full obituary will follow.

--Terence McArdle

More obituaries: Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, New York Times.
(Ray Brown, Oscar Peterson & Herb Ellis)

Es gibt dieses Album "Doggin' Around" von 1988: Herb Ellis, swingend im Duo mit dem Bassisten Red Mitchell und einem grandiosen Cover von Gary Larson. Das passte perfekt zu einem Gitarristen, der immer ein wenig im Schatten von Barney Kessel und Joe Pass stand, mit Humor, Feeling und einem Augenzwinkern aber seinen Platz in der Jazzgeschichte behauptete.

Der Texaner Herb Ellis begann seine Karriere in den 1940er Jahren in Bigbands wie von Jimmy Dorsey, wurde dann bekannt als Mitglied des klassischen Oscar Peterson Trios in den 1950er Jahren und landete schließlich an der Seite von Ella Fitzgerald und anderen swingenden Koryphäen auf vielen Konzertbühnen der Jazzwelt.

Nach dem aufreibenden Leben als Tourneemusiker ließ er sich in Kalifornien nieder und schreib Musiken für Film- und Fernsehstudios, wenn er nicht mit dem Trio "Great Guitars" unterwegs war oder sich eben zu Gigs wie "Doggin' Around" im "Loa"-Café in Santa Monica einfand. Am 28. März starb Herb Ellis, der unter Alzheimer litt, im Alter von 88 Jahren in Los Angeles.

R.I.P.: Peter Herbolzheimer

(born on December 31, 1935 in Bucharest, Romania;
died on March 27, 2010 in Cologne, Germany)

We are very sad about the news we received today. Bigband master Peter Herbolzheimer died in a Cologne hospital on Saturday. He was 74.

The trombonist, arranger and big band leader Peter Herbolzheimer started his career as a trombonist in the band of Bert Kaempfert. In 1969 he founded his own band Rhythm Combination & Brass with which he introduced new sound colors into the big band repertoire, and from the 1970s on he regularly performed both in concerts and on popular TV shows. He became the first musical director of the Bundesjazzorchester, the youth big band of Federal Republic of Germany, in 1987, a job which he kept until 2007. During that time many young musicians went through his band, who today are among the top musicians in that country - Till Brönner, Peter Weniger, Ingolf Burkhardt and Michael Wollny, among them.

Obituaries: Spiegel Online, Frankfurter Rundschau, Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (I), Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung (II), Welt Online, Focus Online, Tagesspiegel, Washington Post.
Box Set of the Day
Peter Herbolzheimer: "Big Band Man - The MPS & Polydor Studio Recordings" (Universal) 2008

Project coordinated by Sergej Braun

A 4-CD set comprising 7 full LPs recorded from 1970 to 1978. Attractive 24-page booklet with rare pics (all by Hans Harzheim) and liner notes in English & Germany. State-of-the-art 192kHz/24bit remastering at Greenlight Studio (Langenhagen).

Peter's albums stand out as one of the most powerful & groovy big band recordings ever made. The rhythm section includes drummers Alex Riel (Bill Evans), Tony Inzalaco and Kenny Clare (not to be confused with Kenny Clarke). Jimmy Pratt, who recorded a famous LP with Baden Powell, besides being heard on percussion, co-produced some of the early sessions. Dannish virtuoso Niels Pedersen surprises by providing very rare funky bass lines on the electric bass (!) along with the usual classy performances on the acoustic bass. There are great flugelhorn solos by Art Farmer, Kenny Wheeler and Ack van Rooyen.

Jiggs Wigham shines on trombone, as also does Philip Catherine on the electric guitar. Bassist Jean Warland is the same who recorded Airto's "Missa Espiritual".

Top tracks: Weldon Irvine's "Mr. Clean" (made famous on Freddie Hubbard's "Straight Life"), Horace Silver's "Nica's Dream", Herbie Hancock's "Butterfly", Nat Adderley's "Jive Samba", Stevie Wonder's "Superstition" (with vocalist Inga Rumpf), Chick Corea's "Spain" and George Duke's "Someday" that justify the slogan "Eine Elefanten zum Tanzen bringen", ie, "To make an elephant dance" like London jazz critic Derek Jewell said after attending Herbolzheimer's gig at Ronnie Scott's club.

Very interesting extra "colors" and a distinctive approach come by courtesy of such keyboardists as Dieter Reith and Ingfried Hoffmann (playing Hammond B3 organ), Rob Franken (on both acoustic and electric pianos) and Horst Muhlbradt, who plays Wurlitzer and Fender Rhodes pianos, plus clavinet (dig "Superstition") and Arp Strings. The versions of Zawinul's "Birdland" and Bobby Troup/Leah Worth's haunting ballad "The Meaning of the Blues" are also worthy of a listening, although the latter souns too similar to the Woody Herman recording on his Grammy-winning album "Giant Steps" (Fantasy). But both were cut in 1973, both feature trombone solos, so it's difficult to say who inspired who... Btw, Peter's arrangement was recorded at the marvelous Cornet Studio, in Cologne, where Arnaldo DeSouteiro already worked.
*********
Aavailable at Dusty Groove; their comments:
"A groovy dream come true -- the complete studio recordings of German bandleader Peter Herbholzheimer -- easily one of the funkiest European talents of the 70s! Although Herbholzheimer's got a clunky name, his sound is incredibly fluid and tight -- a large group approach to funk that rivals some of the best American work of his time -- including classics from Lalo Schifrin, Johnny Pate, and other key maestros of the blacksploitation era. Peter's got a way of taking a large group of players and really making them groove -- a sound that's kind of an electrified extension of the styles first laid out at MPS by the Clarke-Boland Big Band, but served up with a hipper, funkier 70s approach to rhythm.

Like the CBBB, Herbholzheimer's groups often feature American players -- such as Art Farmer on trumpet or Herb Geller on saxes -- alongside more familiar MPS talents like Dusko Goykovich on trumpet, Dieter Reith on organ, Ferdinand Povel on flute, Jiggs Whigham on trombone, and Sigi Schwab on guitar -- joined by the legendary Sabu Martinez on a few of the best sessions here! The 4-CD set is a massive discovery in music -- as it features not only Herbholzheimer's Rhythm & Brass albums for MPS and Polydor, but also records under the group names Certain Lions & Tigers and The Galactic Light Orchestra. The package features a whopping 8 albums in all -- Soul Condor, Time Travellers Galaxis, Waitaminute, Wide Open, Hip Walk, Touchdown, and I Hear Voices -- most of which have never been reissued before -- a whopping 61 long funky jazz tracks!" Dusty Groove America, Inc.
*********
In Peter Herbolzheimers Geburtsjahr stieg Glenn Miller bei Ray Noble ein, Benny Goodman nahm den "King Porter Stomp" auf und gastierte mit seiner Band im Palomar Ballroom von Los Angeles. Und während damit die grosse Zeit des Swing begann, dessen Stern auch Peter Herbolzheimer den Weg wies, tat in Memphis Elvis Presley seinen ersten Schnaufer.

Viele Jahre später sprach man von "Jazzrock" oder einer "Fusion" beider Bereiche, die aber mehr Veränderung als Mischung war. Gitarre und Klavier lösten sich durch neue Instrumententypen aus dem Rhythmusverband und übernahmen Melodie- und Soundaufgaben. Die traditionellen Saxophonsätze erwiesen sich als zu weich. im neuen Umfeld der kräftigen Rockrhythmen, und schließlich machten die komplizierten statischen Akkorde, die die Bigbands in der Bebop-Zeit favorisiert hatten, beweglicheren, oft unisono geblasenen Linien Platz.

In jene Zeit des Wandels fiel die Gründung der "Rhythm Combination & Brass". Peter Herbolzheimer zog als erster im Bigband-Bereich die Konsequenz und besetzte Rhythmus- und Bläserformation gleich stark; zahlenmäßig und qualitativ. Unter den Komponisten/Arrangeuren blieb er eigentlich bis zum heutigen Tage eine der eigenständigsten und maßgebenden Figuren für diese Musikform und ihre Umsetzung für Bigband.

Nach langen Jahren hervorragender Konzerte, Festivalauftritte und Platteneinspielungen war für ihn und die RC&B das reine Jazzrock-Kapitel abgeschlossen. Die Formation wuchs wieder zum klassischen Bigband-Format heran, ohne zugleich eine stilistische Nostalgie auf die Notenblätter zu schreiben. Dafür sorgte schon Peter Herbolzheimer, der als Komponist und Arrangeur die neu gewonnene Beweglichkeit, die stilistische Offenheit und natürlich die solistischen Qualitäten seiner renommierten Musiker mit sicherem Gespür für den historischen und unterhaltsamen Wert des Swing zu einer Einheit verband, - was dem Publikum gefiel und bei renommierten Musikerkollegen Begeisterung auslöste. Mel Lewis bat um Platten von Herbolzheimer, Nancy Wilson wollte bei ihren Deutschland-Auftritten nur mit dieser RC&B singen und Clark Terry schwärmte nach den Aufnahmen zur Balladen-LP "Clark After Dark" von Herbolzheimers unübertroffenen Arrangements.

Das alles hört sich nach nur Jazz an, ist aber nicht so. Man denke nur an die Arbeit der Herbolzheimer-Mannen in den TV-Sendungen des Dr. Biolek. Die unterschiedlichsten Stars mit den verschiedensten musikalischen Gebieten sind da zu begleiten, und es gab noch nicht eine Publikumsäußerung, dass das nicht ankäme. Seit langem kann man sich die Rhythm Combination & Brass" auch nach Hause holen.

Nicht persönlich, denn dafür wäre kaum Platz und die Reisekosten der handverlesenen Gruppe aus einem halben Dutzend europäischer Länder und aus Übersee wären wirklich zu hoch. Doch zum Glück gibt es ja Schallplatten. Sehr gute sogar. Von Peter Herbolzheimer und seiner einmaligen Band....Ebenso einmalig, und dies weltweit, ist aber auch ein Orchester, das 1987 ins Leben gerufen wurde und welches vom ersten Augenblick an bis heute von PH geleitet wurde. Die Rede ist vom "Bundesjugend-Jazzorchester", kurz BuJazzO.

Dieses Orchester ist "die" Plattform für junge Leute, die kurz vor dem Beginn ihrer professionellen Karriere stehen und vorher noch einmalige Erfahrungen, sowohl solistisch als auch im Orchesterspiel sammeln können. Im BuJazzO, mittlerweile eine der besten Adressen für junge Musiker, waren die meisten renommierten Nachwuchsspieler, die heute Bedeutung in der "Szene" haben - kein Orchester, wo man nicht Ehemalige wiederfindet - darunter viele Preisträger. Viele Auslandsreisen etablierten den Ruf dieses Orchesters, das weltweit seinesgleichen sucht - mehrere CD's belegen dies eindrucksvoll. Die BRD sendet diese Formation immer öfter zu offiziellen Anlässen ins Ausland, wo sie sicherlich mehr Aufmerksamkeit erhält, als symphonische Gruppierungen, die im Laufe der Jahrzehnte kaum mehr registriert werden.

Beide Orchester, die RC & B und das BuJazzO, sind einmalig und haben nachhaltig die Musikszene in Deutschland geprägt, gestaltet und verändert.
************
Der Mann, der Elefanten zum Tanzen brachte

Nachruf auf den Bandleader Peter Herbolzheimer
Einen unverkennbar eigenen Sound zu kreieren, ist für jeden Bandleader sicherlich die größte Herausforderung. Dem Posaunisten Peter Herbolzheimer ist dies bei der Gründung seiner Rhythm Combination & Brass 1969 auf Anhieb gelungen. In einer Zeit, in der swingende Bigbands aus der Mode gekommen waren, verordnete er dem Genre eine radikale Frischzellenkur: um den Soul-, Rock- und Fusion-Elementen, mit denen er seine jazzigen Kompositionen anreicherte, den nötigen Druck und Schneid zu verleihen, verzichtete Herbolzheimer nicht nur auf den weicher klingenden Saxophonsatz, sondern verstärkte und elektrisierte außerdem die Rhythmusgruppe seines Orchesters. Am vergangenen Samstag ist der Bandleader, der auch im Mutterland des Jazz hohes Ansehen genoss, im Alter von 74 Jahren in Köln gestorben.

"Die Rhythm Section kann einen Elefanten zum Tanzen bringen", schwärmte der englische Kritiker Derek Jewell, nachdem er die Rhythm Combination & Brass bei einem Gaststpiel im berühmten Ronnie Scott's Club erlebt hatte. Sammy Davis Jr., der, wie so viele andere amerikanische Topstars, bei einem Auftritt in der Fernsehsendung "Bios Bahnhof" von Herbolzheimers Band begleitet wurde, meinte hinterher sichtlich beeindruckt: "Man, that guy is the top!" Und der Trompeter Clark Terry, der mit einer von Herbolzheimer geleiteten Bigband 1977 das Balladenalbum "Clark After Dark" (das 2007 in der "Jazz Club"-Serie neu aufgelegt wurde) für MPS einspielte, schwärmte von dessen "unübertroffenen Arrangements".

Vor allem in den 1970er Jahren brachte Peter Herbolzheimer frischen Wind in die deutsche Musikszene. Ob als Arrangeur der Einzugsmusik zu den Münchner Olympischen Spielen (1972) oder für Udo Lindenbergs Panikorchester, ob als orchestraler Begleiter von Gesangsstars wie Al Jarreau, Helen Schneider, Eartha Kitt, Nancy Wilson und Dianne Reeves oder eben auf den eigenen Alben mit seiner Rhythm Combination & Brass. Die 2008 erschienene CD-Box "Big Band Man - The MPS & Polydor Studio Recordings" enthält auf vier CDs sechs Alben, die Peter Herbolzheimer mit der Band zwischen 1970 und 1977 aufnahm: "Soul Condor", "Waitaminute", "Wide Open", "Hip Walk", "Touchdown" und "I Hear Voices". Als Bonus gibt es dazu noch die Aufnahmen, die der Bandleader 1974 mit dem Galactic Light Orchestra für das Album "Time Travellers Galaxis" machte. Erhältlich ist außerdem eine Zusammenstellung mit den "Masterpieces" seiner MPS-Jahre.

Von 1987 an leitete Peter Herbolzheimer dann zwanzig Jahre lang das damals neugegründete Bundesjazzorchester (BuJazzO), in dem sich junge Talente wie u. a. Till Brönner, Roger Cicero, Nils Wogram und Frank Castenier ihre ersten Sporen verdienten. Die zeitgenössische deutsche Jazzszene prägte er auf diese Weise nachhaltiger als jeder andere deutsche Jazzmusiker. Durch seinen Tod hinterlässt er nun eine Lücke, die kaum zu schließen ist.

Announcing The 53rd Annual Monterey Jazz Festival, September 17-19

(Chick Corea)

The 2010 Monterey Jazz Festival Presented by Verizon will feature a variety of legendary performers, popular favorites, and visionary new artists in a weekend of jazz, blues, gospel, and genre-defying music that has characterized the world-renowned event since its inception in 1958. The 53rd Annual Monterey Jazz Festival Presented by Verizon takes place September 17 - 19, 2010 in Monterey, California on the oak-studded Monterey Fairgrounds, site of the first Festival, and home to MJF for 53 years.

Tickets are on sale now by phone at (925) 275-9255 and on the Monterey Jazz Festival’s website, montereyjazzfestival.org. Full Weekend Arena Packages are available from $225, offering a reserved seat to each of 5 concerts on the Arena/Jimmy Lyons Stage (renewable annually), plus general admission access to 7 additional Grounds Stages and all Grounds activities. Daily Grounds Tickets are available from $35, including general admission access to 7 Grounds stages and activities, plus simulcasts of all Arena concerts. Full Weekend Grounds Tickets are available for $110. MJF’s Family Discount Package begins at $80 for 2 Adult and 2 Youth Grounds Tickets, offering a savings of up to $20. Throughout the weekend, Youth Tickets (Ages 2 - 18) will be available for $15.

NEW SINGLE DAY ARENA TICKETS, PREMIER ACCESS PASS, LOCAL’S PACKAGE, OFFICIAL HOTELS

New for 2010 are Single Day Arena Tickets, including a reserved, non-renewable seat for the Arena concerts on the day selected, plus general admission access to 7 Grounds stages and activities. Friday’s Single Day Arena Tickets are $66 and include one Arena concert plus all Grounds entertainment; Saturday or Sunday’s Single Day Arena Tickets are $99 and include two Arena concerts on each day plus all Grounds entertainment.

The Festival is also introducing a new, VIP opportunity for fans, the Premier Access Pass. Priced at $65 for Friday, $100 for Saturday or Sunday, and $265 for the entire weekend (with 2010 MJF adult ticket purchase), the Premier Access Pass will include a special VIP entrance to the Fairgrounds, access to the Premier Access Club (with closed-circuit simulcasts of Arena concerts, meet and greet visits by 2010 MJF artists, a no-host bar, and private restrooms), and a Premier Access Gift Bag (with gifts from MJF and from its Premier Access Partners, including the Cayman Islands Tourism Department).

Also new in 2010, MJF will offer residents of Monterey County a “Local’s Package,” which includes a copy of the 2010 MJF Souvenir Magazine and a discount coupon for MJF merchandise. The Local’s Package is available to those purchasing an Arena Package, Single Day Arena Ticket, or Grounds Ticket (excluding Youth Tickets).

This year the Festival welcomes a new partner, The Inns of Monterey, Official Hotels of the Monterey Jazz Festival. Offering 5 distinctive, unique, boutique hotels, The Inns of Monterey will be including special rates and amenities for their Monterey Jazz Festival guests. Details are available from The Inns of Monterey at (800) 232-4141 or on their website, innsofmonterey.com.

NEW GROOVES NIGHT, FAMILY DISCOUNT PACKAGE, FAMILY DAY, FRONT BOX AUCTION, ON AND OFF SITE PARKING

The Festival's new, innovative approaches for 2010 will be joined by the return of prior successes, including New Grooves Night, Family Day, and MJF's Annual Front Box Auction.

New Grooves returns on Friday, September 17, with some of the more offbeat groups of the Festival. New Grooves for 2010 features the Hip-Hop symphony, Brass Bows and Beats in Dizzy’s Den; the dynamic and quirky pianist and vocalist Nellie McKay and the cutting edge Indo-Pak Coalition with Rudresh Mahanthappa in the Night Club. The virtuoso vocal group, the House Jacks, rounds out New Grooves on the Garden Stage.

Families can one again take advantage of MJF’s Family Discount Pack, which includes two Adult Grounds Tickets and two Youth Grounds Tickets (2 - 18 years old) for only $80 on Friday, $100 on Saturday or Sunday -- a savings of up to $20. Children under 2 are free.

Sunday, September 19 marks the Festival’s 5th Annual Family Day. Families and children of all ages can participate in special activities, hear the top student jazz ensembles from around the United States (selected at the Next Generation Jazz Festival, April 9 - 11, 2010) along with MJF’s own Next Generation Jazz Orchestra and the Monterey County High School All-Star Band, and join in the fun with the return of the popular Percussion Playshop, MJF’s innovative Instrument Petting Zoo with high-tech, professional musical instruments provided by Yamaha. The younger set can also bounce in the “Jazzy Jumper” on the West Lawn.

MJF’s Front Box Auction presents a golden opportunity for jazz fans to enjoy the Monterey Jazz Festival while supporting jazz education. Patrons can bid to sit at the front of the Arena with three of their closest friends in four Front Box seats for the 53rd annual MJF. The Front Box Auction opens on March 29, 2010 at 9:00 am and concludes on June 1, 2010 at 4:00 pm Pacific Time. For more information, please visit montereyjazzfestival.org.

On-site Fairgrounds Parking will be made available this year to purchasers of Full Weekend Arena Packages and to purchasers of the new Premier Access Pass. As in 2009, the Festival will be partnering with Monterey Peninsula College and Monterey Salinas Transit to offer off-site parking at Monterey Peninsula College and a frequent shuttle service between MPC parking and the Festival Grounds. The Festival charges a $10 fee for parking at MPC.

2010 MJF Performance Highlights Include:

· Return of jazz legends Chick Corea, Dianne Reeves, Roy Hargrove, Chris Potter, Kenny Garrett, Christian McBride, Billy Childs

· World Premiere of 2010 MJF Commission, Billy Childs’ “Music for Two Quartets” with Kronos Quartet

2010 MJF Showcase Artist Roy Haynes performs with Freedom Band, Fountain of Youth and is in conversation with the Jazz Journalists Association
Artists-In-Residence Dianne Reeves performs in the Arena and Grounds
Ahmad Jamal, Harry Connick, Jr., Angelique Kidjo, Les Nubians, Delbert McClinton, Trombone Shorty, Nellie McKay, Indo-Pak Coalition, Septeto Nacional de Cuba, Fred Hersch and George Wein make debuts at MJF
Friday’s "New Grooves" features Brass, Bows and Beats, Nellie McKay, Rudresh Mahanthappa’s Indo-Pak Coalition and the House Jacks
Saturday’s blues show in the Arena includes Delbert McClinton, Naomi Shelton & the Gospel Queens, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue
Internationally-flavored artists include Septeto Nacional de Cuba, Les Nubians, Angelique Kidjo, Rudresh Mahanthappa’s Indo-Pak Coalition; Mark Levine & the Latin Tinge, Jake Shimabukuro, Somi, Berklee Global Jazz Institute Septet, Hristo Vitchev, and Dianne Reeves’ “Strings Attached” featuring Romero Lubambo
Tributes to Artists include Mark Levine & the Latin Tinge “Music of Moacir Santos”; John Firmin & the Nocturne Band “Tribute to Hank Crawford, David ‘Fathead’ Newman and Leroy ‘Hog’ Cooper” and Javon Jackson Band with Les McCann “Swiss Movement Revisited”
Special conversations with Roy Haynes, George Wein, Sam Stephenson of The Jazz Loft Project; DownBeat Blindfold Test with Fred Hersch
Coffee House Gallery Exhibit: The Jazz Loft Project: Photographs and Tapes of W. Eugene Smith from 821 Sixth Avenue, 1957-1965
2010 MJF NEA Jazz Masters include Ahmad Jamal, Chick Corea, Roy Haynes, George Wein
2010 MJF artists have earned a total of 38 Grammys
Return of Sunday's “Family Day” with fun for all ages
Film screenings of Icons Among Us: Jazz in the Present Tense
Continued releases from Monterey Jazz Festival Records, featuring rare and rarified recordings from the last 50 years on CD in conjunction with Concord Music Group

Artist-In-Residence: Dianne Reeves ● Showcase Artist: Roy Haynes ● Commission Artist: Billy Childs

ARENA ARTISTS

Friday, September 17

Septeto Nacional de Cuba; Les Nubians; Roy Hargrove Big Band

Saturday, September 18

Delbert McClinton Band, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, Naomi Shelton & the Gospel Queens; Freedom Band with Chick Corea, Kenny Garrett, Christian McBride, Roy Haynes; Dianne Reeves, Billy Childs Quartet (with Steve Wilson, Scott Colley and Brian Blade) and the Kronos Quartet, “Music for Two Quartets” (2010 MJF Commission)
(Roy Haynes)

Sunday, September 19

Angelique Kidjo featuring Christian McBride, Lionel Loueke, Kendrick Scott, Mino Cinelu; Next Generation Jazz Orchestra with special guest Dianne Reeves; Top High School Big Band from the Next Generation Festival; Harry Connick, Jr.; Ahmad Jamal

GROUNDS ARTISTS

Friday, September 17

Roy Hargrove Big Band; Nellie McKay; Marcus Roberts Trio; Brass, Bows & Beats; Rudresh Mahanthappa’s Indo-Pak Coalition; Mark Levine & the Latin Tinge “Music of Moacir Santos”; the House Jacks; Ben Flocks Quartet; Berklee Global Jazz Institute Septet
(Mark Levine)

Saturday, September 18

Jake Shimabukuro; Chris Potter Underground; Septeto Nacional de Cuba; Gretchen Parlato; Kronos Quartet; Billy Childs Quartet; Somi; Gerald Clayton Trio; Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue; Naomi Shelton & the Gospel Queens; John Firmin & the Nocturne Band “A Tribute to Hank Crawford, David “Fathead” Newman & Leroy “Hog” Cooper”; Hristo Vitchev Quartet; Berklee Global Jazz Institute Septet; Mo’Fone; Downbeat Blindfold Test with Fred Hersch; Conversation with George Wein

Sunday, September 19

Dianne Reeves “Strings Attached” with Russell Malone & Romero Lubambo; Roy Haynes Fountain of Youth Band; Dr. Lonnie Smith Trio; Javon Jackson Band with Les McCann “Swiss Movement Revisited”; Fred Hersch Trio; Sachal Vasandani; George Wein & the Newport All-Stars; Kim Nalley; Le Boeuf Brothers; Banana Slug String Band; Conversation with Roy Haynes; Conversation with Sam Stephenson from The Jazz Loft Project; Nice Guy Trio; the Country’s best high school & college bands

ALL WEEKEND

Jazz on Film: Icons Among Us: Jazz in the Present Tense; Judy Roberts on the Yamaha AvantGrand with Greg Fishman on saxophone; Arena Simulcasts in the Jazz Theater; Coffee House Gallery Exhibit: The Jazz Loft Project. Partial list, with more artists to be announced. Artists subject to change.

Casting: Photoshoot - Lee Stafford Salon

NEEDED: 2/3 female models with beautiful, rich and LONG hair for stylised, 2 day photoshoot for Lee Stafford. There will be NO cutting of hair involved. The shoot will be for 12 styled looks that will appear as in-salon displays, header cards for in-store displays and national and international PR use.

PAY: £500-600 per model (approx.) incl. usage rights.

CRITERIA:
- SEX: Female
- HAIR: Blonde or Brunette - Hair MUST be long!!

CASTING: Thursday 1st April 2010
SHOOT: 14th & 15th April

LOCATION: Soho (Full details to successful applicants)

If you are interested in applying and meet all the criteria, please send email to enquiries@dynamitemodels.com, putting "LEE STAFFORD" in the subject line and including the following:

- Mobile Number
- Age
- Measurements (Height, Bust, Waist, Hips, Dress, Shoes)
- Clear head shot
- Clear FULL length shot

Obama: "Today, add your name to mine"

Dear Arnaldo:

Our records show that you live in California's 30th congressional district.

Last week, the President made history by signing comprehensive health care reform into law.

To mark your essential role in this achievement, he has asked for your name to be added next to his as a co-signer of health care reform.

David Plouffe will personally deliver the names to President Obama, and OFA will provide a certificate to every co-signer, to show their role in this fight:
http://my.barackobama.com/cosigner

Thanks for making it possible,

Mitch Forman
Director - Organizing for America"

-------------Original Message-------------
From: Barack Obama
Subject: Today, add your name to mine

Friend --

I'm writing to you on a great day for America.

This morning, I gathered with members of Congress, my administration, and hardworking volunteers from every part of the country to sign comprehensive health care reform into law. Thanks to the immeasurable efforts of so many, the dream of reform is now a reality.

The bill I just signed puts Americans in charge of our own health care by enacting three key changes:

It establishes the toughest patient protections in history.

It guarantees all Americans affordable health insurance options, extending coverage to 32 million who are currently uninsured.

And it reduces the cost of care -- cutting over 1 trillion dollars from the federal deficit over the next two decades.

To ensure a successful, stable transition, many of these changes will phase into full effect over the next several years.

But for millions of Americans, many of the benefits of reform will begin this year -- some even taking effect this afternoon. Here are just a few examples:

Small businesses will receive significant tax cuts, this year, to help them afford health coverage for all their employees.

Seniors will receive a rebate to reduce drug costs not yet covered under Medicare.

Young people will be allowed coverage under their parents' plan until the age of 26.

Early retirees will receive help to reduce premium costs.

Children will be protected against discrimination on the basis of medical history.

Uninsured Americans with pre-existing conditions can join a special high-risk pool to get the coverage they need, starting in just 90 days.

Insured Americans will be protected from seeing their insurance revoked when they get sick, or facing restrictive annual limits on the care they receive.

All Americans will benefit from significant new investments to train primary care doctors, nurses, and public health professionals, and the creation of state-level consumer assistance programs to help all patients understand and defend our new rights.

As I've said many times, and as I know to be true, this astounding victory could not have been achieved without your tireless efforts.

So as we celebrate this great day, I want to invite you to add your name where it belongs: alongside mine as a co-signer of this historic legislation. Organizing for America will record the names of co-signers as a permanent commemoration of those who came together to make this moment possible -- all of you who refused to give up until the dream of many generations for affordable, quality care for all Americans was finally fulfilled.

So, if you haven't yet, please add your name as a proud health care reform co-signer today:

http://my.barackobama.com/cosigner

Please accept my thanks for your voice, for your courage, and for your indispensable partnership in the great work of creating change.

History, and I, are in your debt.

President Barack Obama

Saturday, March 27, 2010

Pamela Luss & Houston Person live @ Trumpets, NJ, tonite!

Featured in the March issue of Hot House magazine, jazz vocalist Pamela Luss will appear tonight, March 27, with tenorist Houston Person at "Trumpets" club. Two sets: 8 and 10pm
"Trumpets" is located at 6 Depot Square in Montclair (near Walnut Street), New Jersey - about 1/2 hour away from NYC.
All directions are listed here:
http://www.trumpetsjazz.com/main.html

Cover Charge- $20, plus $12 minumum

The back-up band band consists of John Di Martino (piano), Jon Burr (bass) & Alvin Atkinson (drums).

Luss & Person will be performing jazz standards and selections from their recent album, "Sweet and Saxy," released by the Savant label. Among them: "Canadian Sunset," "You Better Go Now," "Star Eyes," "Maybe You'll Be There," Bill Withers' "Ain't No Sunshine" (Sivuca's greatest hit in the dancefloor jazz scene) and Carole King's "It's Too Late."

With a gorgeous warm tone and a fat sound a la Stanley Turrentine, Houston is maybe the most underrated tenorist in jazz history, having recorded great duo albums with Ron Carter. I also love his projects for CTI with Les McCann ("Road Warriors") and Roger Kellaway ("Creation / The French-African Connection").

Spiritual Events next week in the LA Area

S.F.V./GLENDALE/BURBANK
For Full Details: http://www.facebook.com/l/32d13;https://www.spiritualeventsla.com/Glendale_Burbank.html

* Meditation for the Aquarian Age
* The Ancient Art of Belly Dancing
* Candelight Kundalini & Pranayama
* Drumming Circle & Meditation
* Kundalini Yoga and Meditation (All Levels)
* Tuneful call-and-response chanting
_________________________________________________________
HOLLYWOOD
For Full Details: http://www.facebook.com/l/32d13;https://www.spiritualeventsla.com/Hollywood.html

* Christina Bjergo disscussing & signing "The Tao of Tarot"
_________________________________________________________
LOS ANGELES
For Full Details: http://www.facebook.com/l/32d13;https://www.spiritualeventsla.com/Los_Angeles.html

* Spirit Salon held with Lisa Beachy
* Poetry reading Series w/ Amanda Folger "Dewpoint"
* Your Lifework & Money :: A New Paradigm Career Approach
* Essential tools in pediatric care
* Eckankar Book Circle w/ Claudia Bentley
* Psychic Development Circle
* Art Opening/Book Signing w/ Paul Heussenstamm
* Reiki Clinic
________________________________________
PASADENA
For Full Details: http://www.facebook.com/l/32d13;https://www.spiritualeventsla.com/Pasadena.html

* Meditation / Healing Circle
_________________________________________________________
ORANGE COUNTY
For Full Details: http://www.facebook.com/l/32d13;https://www.spiritualeventsla.com/Orange_County.html

* Learn to Speak with the Animals
* Removing the 7 Secret Blocks Holding You Back - Feng Shui
* 3 Keys To Lasting Forgiveness
* Education Night: Introduction to Access Consciousness
* Heart Breath and Oneness Blessing Deeksha
* Holistic Healing Day
__________________________________________________________
OUTSIDE LA
For Full Details: http://www.facebook.com/l/32d13;https://www.spiritualeventsla.com/Outside_LA.html

* Intuitive & Spiritual Development Classes
__________________________________________________________
Follow us for daily updates on Twitter:
http://www.facebook.com/l/32d13;www.Twitter.com/SpiritEventsLA

DJ Hana's B'Day @ Kitchen 305

SEXY WEDNESDAYS! IT'S HANA'S BIRTHDAY!
March 31, after 9pm
NEWPORT BEACHSIDE HOTEL,
16701 Collins Ave.
Miami Beach, FL

If you are in the Miami area, don't miss this one. DJ Hana's B'Day party! And ladies drink free!

CD of the Day - "Michel Legrand: Cops and Robbers"

CD of the Day
Michel Legrand: "Cops and Robbers" (MGM/Kritzerland) 1973/2009


I was only 9 years old when I read, in the April 26, 1973 issue of DownBeat, the news about a new score that Michel Legrand had completed for the film "Cops and Robbers," featuring an all-star jazz cast in the soundtrack recording. So, I immediately added such title to my Want List of vinyls, specially after I became aware that my idol Airto Moreira was the percussion player. Frustration followed. Although the film was released in August '73, a soundtrack LP never came out. Worst: there were very short pieces of Legrand's score in the movie, except for the main theme, sung by the baritone voice of drummer Grady Tate.

When a VHS video and, more recently, a DVD copy of "Cops and Robbers" became available, I got both. But I had lost my hopes for the soundtrack album.

However, miracles happen! And, some months ago, 36 years after its recording, Legrand's complete score finally saw the light of the day in a CD issue limited to 1000 copies! It was possible thanks to an agreement between MGM and the Valley Village-based Californian label Kritzerland.

The CD booklet reproduces some images of the movie and includes a nice set of notes by Bruce Kimmel, who produced the CD release. "As a listening experience, it's great to finally unearth what is basically an unknown Legrand score, especially one this good," Kimmel wrote. "One presumes that Legrand created the album sequence and we've left it as it was designed. The album master tapes were in great shape, and the sound is unmistakably 1970s, and that's a good thing."

The "bad thing" is the lack of data regarding the sessions. Not even the original album producers are mentioned: the legendary George Avakian, who signed Miles Davis and Dave Brubeck to Columbia, and the controversial Norman Schwartz, by then heading his own Gryphon label after his experience at Skye. The Russian-born Avakian is still alive, but Schwartz died in 1995 at age 67.

All the musicians are equally uncredited on the CD data. And what a stellar ensemble! Lee Konitz, Gary Burton, Johnny Coles (Gil Evans' favorite trumpeter - after Miles Davis, of course), Dick Hyman, Toots Thielemans, Billy Butler, Russell George, Richard Davis, Bernard Purdie, Airto Moreira (his percussion arsenal being prominently featured throughout the score, stealing the show in many moments), Grady Tate, Gloria Agostini and the strings concertmaster, David Nadien. Plus a large choir. The score includes jazz, r&b, pop, funk, classical, choral and liturgical music. My personal favorite tracks are "The Sellers," "Uptwon," "The Buyer," "The Lush Life" and "The Chase." That's what I call a true collectors' item.
********
"Cops and Robbers" was a well reviewed and received 1973 caper film starring Joseph Bologna and Cliff Gorman, written by the great Donald Westlake, and directed in off-handed improvisatory style by Aram Avakian.

Michel Legrand was hired to compose and conduct the score and he created a terrific and eclectic bunch of cues, some of them classic Legrand 70s funk, some pretty, some atonal and weird, and all wonderfully Legrandesque. However, the film’s director seemed to have something else in mind; seemingly he wanted the music to mostly function as part of the sound design – as source music, as pad, as everyday life, and not really as conventional film scoring.

Save for only one or two cues, Legrand’s music always seems to be coming out of radios (the radio broadcasts seem to always be present), and the cues that might be considered score cues still almost function as source music in the film itself.

While a soundtrack album was prepared at the time of the film’s release, it never came out, probably because if people had seen the film they would have found little need to purchase it, since so little of the music is heard – sometimes only a few seconds. But the album is fantastic, and it’s a shame the music wasn’t actually used more prominently in the film because it’s Legrand at his 70s best. The title song is infectious in the way Shaft’s title song is (with a similar-style vocal), and each track is completely its own musical picture. We’re thrilled to release what is basically an almost never-before-heard Legrand score.

Beautifully mastered for CD from the album masters, Cops and Robbers is a must-have for any film score aficionado or Legrand fan.

Benny Russell Trio in concert, tonite!

The Benny Russell Trio w/ Greg Hatza and Robert Shahid
March 27, 7pm-10:30pm
Christ Episcopal Church
2100 Rock Spring Road
Forest Hill, MD

Darlene Bernaola & DJ Vertigo @ MI-VI

Millenium Playmate Darlene Bernaola Hosts Conference @ MI-VI
March 27, 1opm
MI-VI (Gulfstream Park & Casino)
901 S. Federal Highway (by Biscayne Blvd. on 213th St.)
Hallandale Beach, FL

Amazing venue...beautiful people...sexy soulful music...see you on the dancefloor ;) Thx to my friend Casey McNeil for the invitation.

MI-VI
Gulfstream Park & Casino
901 S. Federal Highway
Hallandale Beach, FL

DJ Vertigo
Dinner 8pm & Table Reservations 954 457 6464

Guest list info@mi6ent.com
Complimentary Self Parking
www.mi6ent.com

PS 1: Darlene and her twin sister Carol were the third identical twins to appear as playmates.

PS2: MI-VI fuses the opulence of the British House of Windsor, to the theatrical and eccentric Studio 54. Revolutionizing the art of clubbing with boutique dinning, four luxurious VIP rooms, six bars and an orchestral stage. The venue provides a full catering division with award winning executive chef, Kasner Willis.

DJ Tatiana Fontes @ Mixology Closing Party

The LA-based Brazilian DJ diva Tatiana Fontes is on her way to Miami, where she'll be DJing @ WMC/Mixology Closing party Sunday with Sharam!
Mixology's Ten Year Anniversary WMC Closing Party with Sharam and Tatiana Fontes!

Take the next day to recover from the last 40 hours of nonstop partying. Get some sleep, eat some food, and hopefully hook up with someone, but don't get too comfortable. Saturday is the 10th annual official Mixology closing party, and there's a reason why it has been known by many as THE BEST PARTY of W.M.C. Maybe it’s because of the special guests that drop in to hang out, DJ a surprise set, or just party with everyone else, (previous years special guests include, Carl Cox, Paul Oakenfold, Judge Jules, Steve Lawler, Erick Morillo, Seb Fontaine, BT, Eddie Halliwell, Benny Benassi, Darren Emerson, Christopher Lawrence, Dave Dresden to name a few...)

Not to mention celebrities, like P Diddy, Supermodel Alessandra Ambrosio and more. Maybe these parties rock because it’s simply the last night to party before it’s all over and you aren't trying to be 10 places at once so you can just enjoy the moment in an amazing setting. Either way the surprise lineup is set to be the best in 10 years , with the following DJ's confirmed:

Main Room: Sharam, Serge Devant,Mark Lewis Noel Sanger, Morgan Page. Charlie May, EC Twins, DJ Reza, A Luv, S/Co, Nello Simioli, Scotty Boy, Blackliquid, Mea and Mikey Gallagher (House Sound of LA) & SaumG

VIP Terrace: Sandra Collins, DJ Rap, Miss Nine, Sydney Blu, DJ Tatiana Fontes,
Tara Brooks

VIP Access to All Parties & Events INCLUDED With The MIXOLOGY VIP WRISTBAND
Want Bottle Service? Please send advance reservation requests to tickets@mixologyvip.com

Friday, March 26, 2010

Gina Saputo: Lover's Soire tonite @ Steamers

TONITE FRI, MAR 26, 8:30p-1a -$8
Steamers Jazz Club and Cafe
138 W. Commonwealth Ave
Fullerton, CA 92832
Ph: 714-871-8800

Friday's "Lover's Soire" at Steamers is gonna rock!
Gina Saputo with Evan Stone (drums), Matt Politano (piano), David Miller (bass), Larry Salzman (percussion) & Rym Paulikas (tenor sax)

Gina Saputo is a vocalist, entertainer, clinician and arranger who has already established herself as one of the rising young stars on the jazz scene. From there, Gina attended USC's prestigious Thornton School of Music, and was among seven musicians chosen by Herbie Hancock, Terence Blanchard, and Wayne Shorter to study at the Thelonius Monk Institute. During her time with the institute, she performed for the State Department in Washington, D.C., and toured with Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter and Nnenna Freelon.

Her first CD, "Gina Saputo" was recorded with vocal sessions produced by Grammy award nominated vocalist Tierney Sutton, who said, "Gina has the talent as well as the passion to stretch and think outside the box." Featuring Grammy nominated pianist Gerald Clayton. After two successful tours of Japan, her CD has climbed to #3 on the prestigious Swing Journal charts, and has received rave reviews. She was a guest professor at Gwangju University in South Korea, and toured Japan a second time with Grammy nominated pianist Bill Cunliffe.

2009 was a great year for Gina. She appeared at the Skywards Dubai International Jazz Festival. She won First Place at the Big Stage Vocal Competition, and was the vocalist for the Orange County Music Awards winning band for Best Jazz in Orange County. She recently recorded two ringtones which will be default rings on upcoming Samsung phones, and headlined Club Nokia at LA Live!
Upcoming performances by Gina Saputo:

3.27.10 Ambrosia - Santa Ana, CA.
4.1.10 Angel's - Santa Monica, CA.
4.3.10 Ambrosia - Santa Ana, CA.
4.9.10 Steamers - Fullerton, CA.
4.10.10 Ambrosia - Santa Ana, CA.
4.23.10 Steamers - Fullerton, CA.
4.24.10 Ambrosia - Santa Ana, CA.
4.30.10 Lucky Strike- Downtown, LA.
5.1.10 Ambrosia - Santa Ana, CA.
5.7.10 Hip Kitty - Claremont, CA.
5.8.10 Ambrosia - Santa Ana, CA.

Obama: "Thank Representative Capps"

"Dear Arnaldo:

According to our records, you currently live in California's 30th congressional district. When your representative, Representative Lois Capps, stood up and supported reform, it was a courageous step in the face of insurance-industry attacks -- and it proves that your voice was heard.

Now, many in Congress already face well-funded attacks by special interests in retaliation for standing in support of reform. GOP representatives and attorneys general are trying to repeal or overturn the legislation, and deceptive attack ads are hitting the airwaves.

But a big-money attack ad isn't nearly as powerful as the real story of an actual constituent -- so we have to get our voices out there and make sure enemies of reform don't dominate the public discussion in these crucial moments.

Organizing for America volunteers across the country are writing letters to the editor of their local paper to thank their representatives for supporting health reform.

Can you join them?

The letters page is one of the most read in the newspaper, and speaking up there can go a long way toward showing our representatives that when they stand up and fight for us, we'll fight for them.

To show local support, OFA supporters are writing in with specific messages about what reform will mean for them, their families, and their friends -- and their communities.

According to our records, you live in California's 23rd congressional district. In your district alone, reform would:

-- Ban discrimination against 17,000 residents with pre-existing conditions;
-- Provide tax credits and other assistance for up to 143,000 families;
-- Extend coverage to 92,000 uninsured residents;
-- Save 900 families from health care related bankruptcy; and
-- Get full prescription drug coverage for 92,000 seniors on Medicare.

Please send a letter to the editor of your local paper, and thank your representative for making history:
http://my.barackobama.com/ThankLTE

Thanks for making it happen,

David Plouffe
Organizing for America"

Alexa Weber Morales: Tonite @ Montero's, Sunday @ El Rio, plus summer gigs & news

"Dear Arnaldo ~

I have been so busy writing, dancing and running that I have neglected my email list. The first three months of 2010 have been full of gigs, the rueda festival, a half marathon and freelance writing assignments (I write about music, technology and medicine, in English and Spanish).

It's been nice working with other bands, too, as I get to do what I love -- make music on stage -- without the financial risk that comes with being a bandleader. Last week I was honored to play Yoshi's Oakland for Tito Gonzalez's CD release. And before you wonder why I didn't give you a heads-up, first, I apologize, and second, feel free to follow me on Twitter, or friend or fan me on Facebook -- I'm pretty active there and it's easier to announce things that way.

Thank you as always for your support, suggestions, ideas and love!

Un abrazo,

Alexa"

GIGS GIGS GIGS GIGS GIGS GIGS

Friday, March 26th, 2010
Andy y Su Orquesta Callao - 8:00pm
Montero's
1106 Solano Avenue
Albany, CA 94706
510-524-1270

Pura salsa pa goZar!
*********
Sunday, March 28th, 2010
Salsa al Aire Libre! - 4:00pm
El Rio
3158 Mission St (@ Cesar Chavez)
San Francisco, CA 94110
(415) 282-3325

Con Andy y Su Orquesta Callao! Outdoor barbecue!
**********
Thursday, May 6th, 2010
Alexa Weber Morales Band - 9:30pm
Cigar Bar
850 Montgomery Street
San Francisco, CA 94133
415-398-0850

With Evelio Roque, Omar Ledezma, Christian Tumalan and Sam Bevan! Cigar Bar & Grill is on Jackson Square at the corner of Montgomery and Pacific.

The Cigar Bar & Grill offers an atmosphere low on pretension and high on relaxation, including an excellent selection of cigars, wines and spirits. Inside, relax in our rustic environment, featuring welcoming leather couches, low lighting and wooden tables & chairs. There are indoor and outdoor pool tables. And enjoy an array of art from local talents such as Anastasia Schipani and Mike Wolf.
**********
Sunday, May 23rd, 2010
A Bailar Con Los Boleros! - 1:00pm
River Rock Casino
3250 Highway 128 East
Geyserville, CA 95441
(707) 857-2777

Alexa will be performing with Los Boleros. 21 and older only.
FROM SAN FRANCISCO AND OAKLAND:
Take Highway 101 north to Geyserville.
Take the exit toward CA-128 AND/GEYSERVILLE.
Turn right in CA-128/GEYSERVILLE AVE.
Turn right in CA-128
Look for Dry Creek Rancheria signs to River Rock Casino
*************
Sunday, May 30th, 2010
Apostamos Con Los Boleros! - 9:00pm
River Rock Casino
3250 Highway 128 East
Geyserville, CA 95441
(707) 857-2777

Alexa will be performing with Los Boleros. 21 and older only.

FROM SAN FRANCISCO AND OAKLAND:
Take Highway 101 north to Geyserville.
Take the exit toward CA-128 AND/GEYSERVILLE.
Turn right in CA-128/GEYSERVILLE AVE.
Turn right in CA-128
Look for Dry Creek Rancheria signs to River Rock Casino
*************
Wednesday, June 9th, 2010
Latin for Lunch! - 12:00pm
Oakland City Center
12th and Broadway (center stage in front of Jamba Juice)
Oakland, CA 94607

Salsa, samba, funk and originals with the Alexa Weber Morales Band!
************
Saturday, June 12th, 2010
Latin Jazz in Tiburon! - 8:00pm
Servino Ristorante
9 Main St
Tiburon, CA 94920

With Alexa Weber Morales quartet.
************
Sunday, July 11th, 2010
Summer Camp July 11-18 - 8:00pm
Oakland Feather River Camp
5469 Oakland Camp Road
Quincy, CA 95971
510-336-2267

Alexa will be teaching music during Garage Band week. Voice, performance, percussion and latin repertoire.
********
Monday, August 9th, 2010
Summer Camp Dance August 9-15 - 8:00pm
Oakland Feather River Camp
5469 Oakland Camp Road
Quincy, CA 95971
510-336-2267

Alexa will be teaching during World Dance week: latin dance (samba, salsa aerobics, beginning rueda)!