The Alabama indie smooth jazz/funk/R&B band BlendJazz pulls you in, grabs you with the rhythm, and keeps your head bopping. It’s because of the unique combo of Henry Mixon, Earl Rice and AnthonyStix Payton, who together, make tunes like “Slow Jam” that feel like honey you want to pour over everything. “Somp’um” adds an easy... Continue Reading →
It’s only because he loves them. Guitarist and smooth jazz/R&B aficionado Gary Fuston says he and a partner started GHP Productions to shine a warm spotlight on the indie artist. It’s a cool and easy place to hear the newest smooth music with fun, off-the-cuff conversations with the artists themselves. The station is called GHP... Continue Reading →
The sound Corey Mwamba produces on his vibraphone is honest and true, a sweet clarion with rich harmony. He possesses a surgical precision with the mallets and knows how to coax beauty and depth from them. When and why did you start playing vibes? I started playing the vibes in Southampton (UK), during my A-levels... Continue Reading →
Ladies and NOW Gents: Enter by SEPTEMBER 5, 2017 for the 2017 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition at the NJ Performing Arts Center For the sixth year in a row, jazz lovers and those who have found their musical inspiration from Sarah Vaughan have a place to go where it’s all Sassy, all the... Continue Reading →
Sly Scott studies the classical masters and fits into any imaginable musical scenario. He has an ear out for World Beat, R&B, movie and TV theme music, rock, and more. Though he finds unusual places to practice, he keeps moving, grooving and growing as a musician. When did you realize music was your path? I... Continue Reading →
Dirk K has really nailed that mellow vibe. He gives a calm, easy beat cushioning the light hook of “Blu Sky” and lends a subtle flamenco flavor to the sexy “Lights Off” with sax player Jarez. His sound is outstanding, clear and upbeat. Who were your early musical influences? My first guitar teacher, Juergen Sturm,... Continue Reading →
The guy has a wide and easy vibrato, hanging back on the beat just a smidge so you can feel the sultriness of it. This is “Traveler,” Andy Snitzer’s musical commentary about being on the road, all over the planet, and then about being home, family, and reflection. You’d have to be in your 80s... Continue Reading →
It might come across as highly experimental and without form, but Rachel Musson’s improvisations on the sax are the result of intense study and musical flexibility. Preferring the tenor in the sax family, Rachel is partial to her first instrument: a 1918 Conn with a sound that she claims is unrivaled by modern instruments. When... Continue Reading →
This story accompanies an earlier one about Sonny Rollins. With assertive purples, blues, pinks, reds and oranges, illustrator Gaurab Thakali interprets cultural figures and societal issues. Some of his illustrations catch the collective attention of social media. One has exploded into iconic status. A modest, shy artist, the UK’s Gaurab Thakali has re-imagined Sonny Rollins... Continue Reading →
Debbie Burke - jazz author 
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