Jazz Artist

THE “REESONZ” ACCORDING TO DAVID MCLORREN

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What would the soundtrack to your life sound like? For David McLorren, it sounds like “Reesonz.” There are 11 reasons for the eclectic collection of songs on this album. For David, the reasons range from making a statement to being true to himself. His music is comprised of the melodies of his life. They are also melodies that tell a story and inspire; they inspire listeners to take an introspective look into their lives and gain a deeper understanding. Although McLorren is well rounded and versed in chemistry, technology, and a few instruments, it is music that he sees as he looks at his life. Drawing inspiration from family, God, and circumstances, David is marching to his own drum and being the best him he can be.

Real conversation between David and I:

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PETER WHITE MAKES ME “SMILE”

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If you want to lift your spirits and feel incredibly good, then sit back, relax, and listen to Peter White’s new CD, “Smile.” It is a bountiful collection of soul-stirring songs that will have you pressing repeat. Although “Smile” is Peter’s 14th album, and his career has spanned 40 decades, he remains driven by his fans’ appreciation for his music. When asked if he had a formula for making an album, his response was, “I have to be moved”–by the music that is. Peter reached into his vault of previously written songs to create this masterpiece. “Smile” has lots of personal touches that make it extraordinarily special for many reasons–one of them being that White was joined by some of his dear friends in music: Rick Braun, Mindi Abair, Euge Groove, Philippe Saisse, Nate Phillips, Ramon Yslas, Stevo Theard, and his daughter, Charlotte. Furthermore, it includes a song for the birthday of a friend’s daughter (Jordan), a song in honor of Barry White, and a tribute to Mason Williams. “Smile” has a song for everyone and is sure to be a fan favorite.

Peter and I chat about music, fans, and his superpower:

Peter White
Peter White

AL DEGREGORIS DID IT “ALL IN GOOD TIME”

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When you start playing piano at age four and over time evolve into a multi-instrumentalist all while still a young man, your future has promise. Al DeGregoris simply wanted to be like his older family members he witnessed performing in a band. He had to have it, and so he went after it. To his advantage, Al not only honed his talent but also learned the technical side of music and owned his own recording studios. Armed with an arsenal of talent and skills, DeGregoris’ collaboration with Nils and Jeff Lorber on “All In Good Time” was majestic. Significantly different from his first two albums, Al describes “All In Good Time” as “organic.” It was recorded live with some of the finest musicians in the industry.

Al and I discuss the new album and what he admired most about working with Nils and Lorber:

Al DeGregoris
Al DeGregoris

AL DEGREGORIS DID IT “ALL IN GOOD TIME”

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When you start playing piano at age four and over time evolve into a multi-instrumentalist all while still a young man, your future has promise. Al DeGregoris simply wanted to be like his older family members he witnessed performing in a band. He had to have it, and so he went after it. To his advantage, Al not only honed his talent but also learned the technical side of music and owned his own recording studios. Armed with an arsenal of talent and skills, DeGregoris’ collaboration with Nils and Jeff Lorber on “All In Good Time” was majestic. Significantly different from his first two albums, Al describes “All In Good Time” as “organic.” It was recorded live with some of the finest musicians in the industry.

Al and I discuss the new album and what he admired most about working with Nils and Lorber:

Al DeGregoris
Al DeGregoris

KIKI EBSEN’S GIFT

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For parents, rebellion is not what we want to see in our children. However, we will experience it at some point. For Buddy Ebsen, his daughter, Kiki’s venture into rebellion would ultimately lead her into a future full of musical success. Kiki Ebsen decided to ignore her father’s request to pursue a career as a jazz singer and instead, chose to find her own way, indulging in the pop music world. Her talents as a singer/songwriter were undeniable and proved to get better with time. A future in entertainment was Kiki’s destiny. After all, she grew up in the limelight of her father’s success as an actor. After he passed, Kiki began to reflect on the desires of her father and, eventually, fulfilled the desires of his heart. As an expression of love for her father, she honored him with the “Scarecrow Sessions.” It is precisely the type of project that would have made her father proud. Over the years, Kiki has been evolving as an artist and has found her voice. She recorded “Scarecrow Sessions” in her own time, in her own voice, and in her truth. Working with David Mann to produce this project helped shape it into a masterpiece of songs that everyone can relate to. Additionally–making this recording even more incredible–were musicians Chuck Loeb, Henry Hey, John Patitucci, and Clint de Ganon.

Kiki and I talk about “Scarecrow Sessions,” set for release on September 30th:

 

KIKI

I HEAR PATRICK BRADLEY

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On the day of the release of his third album titled “Can You Hear Me“, Patrick Bradley was thrilled that fans would finally hear his new project. Bradley has spent his life playing music; he taught himself at an early age. His instrument of choice was the organ, and he displays his keen skills playing the Hammond organ on this album. The sound he projects is profoundly crisp and is a pleasure to hear. It is a rare opportunity to hear a Hammond organ played in music these days. Although Patrick has a career as a business man working for Whole Foods Market, he has never strayed from his love of music. He has always written songs and is fortunate to have made three albums. Patrick wrote this album with the concept in mind of blocking out the noise that surrounds us all of the time along with the idea of having his music speak louder. The title and first radio single is a reflection of that premise. The song and title (“Can You Hear Me”) came to him at once as he wondered if his late mother could hear his music. Making this album even greater, he joined forces with producer Jeff Lorber whom also produced his second album “Under The Sun.” Together, their chemistry is the perfect formula for making music magic. “Can You Hear Me” features Dave Koz, Rick Braun, and Eric Marienthal. Also adding their musical chops to the project are Jimmy Haslip, Gary Novak, David Mann, Dwight Sills, and Michael Thompson.

Patrick and I talk about the evolution of “Can You Hear Me”:

 

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HOWARD HEWETT IS TIMELESS

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There are times when you encounter an artist who has sustained a successful career for decades. Howard Hewett has done just that. The longevity of his career can be attributed to his fans, his delivery of great music, and to being “evenly keeled.” Without a doubt, Hewett believes that “you must learn how to deal with circumstances, rather than let circumstances deal with you.” He learned this at a very young age, and it has remained his essential way of thinking, subsequently sustaining him. Although, his fans will always love the music from the past, they are still engaged and excited about his latest songs. Howard’s latest sexy thriller is titled “Better Guy.” It’s the second song released from his forthcoming project. Again, the “common thread for Howard is his vocals” no matter the style of music. The new album will be released through IEG – The Incendiary Entertainment Group, which Howard is a huge part of.

Howard and I have a candid conversation:

 

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AT HOME WITH JEFF LORBER

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In Jeff Lorber’s home, surrounded by a variation of instruments old and new, creativity is abundant. Taking a step down into his studio, I was overwhelmed by the majestic presence of music. I knew it was the home of countless artists, songs, albums, and hits. It was the place that Grammy-nominated Jeff Lorber called home. As we comfortably made our way from one room to the other, Jeff and fellow friend/producer shared stories about the “Beatles.” I listened intently absorbing every word.

Jeff is very fortunate because he gets to do what he loves and that is making music. Having grown up in a household where music was abundant helped fuel his passion. His ability to evolve with the change of tides in the music industry, in addition to being inspired by new music and artists has contributed to his longevity. Lorber challenges himself to get out of his comfort zone when collaborating with countless musicians crossing genre lines. Reinventing himself continuously, Jeff is keenly aware that it is his job to make great music, and holds himself accountable if it is not. From his point of view, his music is “melodic, funky, and harmonic.”

Lorber is undeniably a great musician. While talking with him, I discovered he’s great for more reasons than one:

 

THE SURGE OF PHIL DENNY

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Phil Denny’s arrival to the music scene has many on the edge of their seats anticipating his next moves. As a businessman turned musician, Phil chose to pursue his passion with the idea of “risk versus reward” in mind, and that decision has proven to be a very wise one. Since his ascent, Denny has captured the hearts of fans around the world.  He has done so by not only being very talented but by also being personable and grounded. Phil’s goal has always been to “build a brand and an identity.” In doing so, he has allowed fans to unequivocally and without a doubt participate in the journey with him. Denny worked alongside producer Nate Harisim as well as other fine musicians on his debut project, Crossover, in 2012–a formula that has earned him three songs that climbed into the Billboard Top 30. He continues to woo fans with his performances and by speaking to them passionately through his playing.

 Phil and I have fun while discussing his career:

 

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GUITARIST ANDREAS VARADY

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Andreas Varady is a young guitarist with the sound of a veteran who has been playing for many years–to say the very least. He is not an old soul with an old sound but quite the contrary; he is a young soul with a refreshing mature sound. Surrounded by music and hailing from a home full of music, it was natural for Andreas to pursue what came most natural to him. For him, that was playing the guitar starting at the age of four. He never considered any other options. He recalls hearing his hero George Benson’s album Breezin’ and the impact it instantly had on him. Varady has appeared at Jazz Festivals on international stages around the world since he was twelve years old. Andreas’ life took a dramatic turn after he was invited to play in a group at the Montreux Jazz Festival. It was there during practice that he met the legendary Quincy Jones who would soon thereafter sign him to his Management Company. Varady’s life now at seventeen years old continues to escalate. He recently signed with Verve, and his first CD is self titled Andreas Varady. It features newcomer Gregory Porter as well as the legendary Greg Phillinganes. Andreas appreciates different genres thus is also influenced by them. Through it all, Andreas remains grounded, humble, and focused. He looks forward to making new music, experiencing different projects, welcoming new opportunities, and building his career.

I spoke with Andreas at the 4th Annual John Coltrane International Jazz and Blues Festival:

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