2011 JAZZVOX CONCERT SERIES PREVIEW

Nich Anderson, fantastic host of the incredibly successful JazzVox house concert series, has been featuring world-class artists and delighting audiences since January, 2008 and will keep his ‘dream come true’ alive in grand style by celebrating male jazz vocalists throughout 2011.  The theme is, of course, “Boys! Boys! Boys!” and Nich promises to present an electrifying group of gifted, inventive vocalists from different parts of the world.  He kicks off his fourth season with the outstanding vocalist/composer Peter Eldridge of New York Voices fame in January and winds up the year with brilliant jazz song stylist and New Orleans native Kenny Washington in November.  The excitement in his voice can hardly be concealed talking about it - “Everyone knows Kurt Elling, John Pizzarelli and Jamie Cullum – but there are lots of fantastic male jazz vocalists out there – I decided to make it a focus for this year to draw attention to just some of the wealth of men blazing the trail in the world of vocal jazz!”

Also on Nich’s agenda for 2011 is the eagerly anticipated January 18 release of the first-ever JazzVox CD (on OA2) “In Your Own Backyard” which showcases new studio recordings by many of the recent JazzVox artists – his way of capturing, and sharing with the world, some of the magic happening at these concerts!          

                                                               

As I have observed over the 2 ½ years of attending nearly every JazzVox performance, Nich Anderson has such a warm, witty way of making his guest artists and audiences feel so special.  He puts out the welcome mat for folks from many cultures and backgrounds and as a result, garners rave reviews from newcomers and a steadfast, loyal following.   The guest artist for the October, 2010 JazzVox concert was sensational British vocalist Anita Wardell who says, “It is a delight to play for Nich’s first rate concert series!  He gave me first-class treatment both professionally and personally.”  Long-time JazzVox devotee and great friend Julie Olson exudes, “I love the intimacy and connection with the audience… their love for music and the energy and joy felt in the room!”

The schedule of 2011 JazzVox concerts is:  January – “perennially classy” NY jazz vocalist/songwriter Peter Eldridge;    February – incredible Swiss vocalist/arranger Beat Kaestli; March – lauded jazz singer with the velvet voice, Kevin Mahogany;   April – Belgian bandleader/singer extraordinaire David Linx;  May – Grammy award-winning vocalist/composer John Proulx;   June – Innovative Jazz singer’s singer JD Walter;   September – “Hipster” vocalist and piano man Bob Dorough;   October – Acclaimed bassist/songwriter Jay Leonhart, and   November – Jazz vocalist virtuoso Kenny Washington.  Specific dates and times for these concerts are available on the wonderful JazzVox website, www.jazzvox.com

Not only will you be treated to terrific performances but close friend and colleague Patti Carr puts on a sumptuous after-show buffet with many of her own creations and favorite recipes.  She and her husband, superb pianist Andy Carr, also host JazzVox concerts in their lovely home on Camano Island, so you could potentially see a concert in each locale all in one weekend – what a golden opportunity!

To help with your concert selection process, Nich has beautifully designed his website to include bio information, press reviews, sound clips, and even YouTube clips for each artist with a fabulous opportunity to purchase discounted season passes or 4-concert passes.  If you truly desire to be a part of this one-of-a-kind concert experience with the “Boys” in 2011, simply visit www.jazzvox.com and reserve your seats via advance donation either by check or PayPal online.  You’re sure to savor good friends, culinary delights and the very finest in vocal jazz featuring male artists – we’ll see you there!

GRETA MATASSA AT BAKE’S PLACE WITH BARNEY MCCLURE – 12/03/10

Last Friday night at Bake’s Place in Issaquah was another exquisite evening of stellar jazz, especially with the great Barney McClure in the house!  He brought in his own vintage B3 Hammond organ, and as Bake’s owner Craig Baker said, “He plays it how it’s supposed to be played”.  Barney was at his smokin’ best belting out blazing hot runs and punctuating groovin’ chords and sustained notes with aplomb to augment the fabulous rhythm section comprised of local standouts Jose Martinez on drums and Chris Spencer playing electric guitar.

As if this group of extraordinary musicians wasn’t enough, the stage was also graced by the incomparable Greta Matassa who brought the house down with her powerhouse vocals and irresistible charisma.  She sang a variety of styles from smoldering blues numbers to lush standards as “Like Someone in Love” and Shirley Horn’s “I could have told you so”.  Greta also paid tribute to the wonderful vocalist/songwriter Blossom Dearie with her rendition of “Now At Last” and pulled out all the stops with a cookin’ Ray Charles tune “Danger Zone”.

Greta Matassa’s spontaneous and joyful interplay with Barney, Jose and Chris was so pleasing to the audience, and together they created sheer magic during this festive holiday season.  To learn more about these remarkable artists and their CD releases/Concert gigs, please visit Greta Matassa at www.gretamatassa.com, Barney McClure at www.barneymcclure.com, Jose Martinez at www.teachstreet.com, and Chris Spencer at www.chrisspencermusic.com

JAZZSCAPES CONCERT - ALMA VILLEGAS IN WEST SEATTLE - NOVEMBER 6, 2010

I was greatly privileged to attend the second concert of the esteemed new JazzScapes house concert series in West Seattle, and boy was their house a smokin’ last Saturday night!  Alma Villegas is a sensational, fiery Latin vocalist in Seattle with a sultry alto sound who absolutely sizzled with her interpretation of “Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps” and “Besame Mucho”, as well as sang with unbridled passion such love songs as “The Waters of March” and “Cuando Calienta el Sol”.  Alma’s interplay with her three band mates (great conga player Ricardo Guity; pianist extraordinaire Ben Verdier; and groovin’ bassist, Steve Okimoto) was infectious and Ricardo really spiced things up with his brand of playful humor.  Alma amazingly was dancing away with flamboyant flair while belting out tricky rhythms and lyrics, mostly in Spanish, and had the whole audience whooping and swaying all evening long!

Ms. Villegas is well-known for adapting her shows to fit the occasion and venue, and her repertoire draws not only from traditional Latin jazz, but also from eclectic Latin music styles as Cuban cha cha, salsa, bossa nova, and the bolero (ballad).    Alma promises to pull out all the stops with her dynamic group at the Cypress Lounge in Bellevue on Friday, November 19 from 8-11 pm and at Shadowland in West Seattle on Thursday, December 9 from 8-11 pm. You can also “take her home” with 2 splendid CD’s entitled “Alma Y Azucar” and her self-titled debut CD “Alma Villegas”.  Please visit Alma’s great website @ http://www.almavillegas.com for artist bio information, CD’s, and concert schedule updates.

The unanimous success of this very special performance proves that the JazzScapes concert series is here to stay with another fantastic show coming in February (date TBD).  For all the latest concert updates and information on the artists, please visit their wonderful website @ http://www.JazzScapes.com

DAVE FRISHBERG – A MAN FOR ALL SEASONS…..AND ALL REASONS!

My first impression of Dave Frishberg at Bake’s Place on 10/23/10 is. . Here’s a non-nonsense man whose keen observations of life and people are in the know yet who has profound reverence for days and folk-heroes gone by.  Mr. Frishberg conveys great wit and poignancy in his musings and has that rare ability to laugh at himself as well.  His songs are carefully crafted with sophisticated melodies and often quirky lyrics but never loses sight of the emotional essence or message he wants to make known.   He was at his irreverent, delightful best performing such classics as “My Attorney Bernie”, “I Want to be a Sideman” and “Long Daddy Green” and evoked much tenderness and insight with my favorite ballad, “Heart’s Desire”.  Another highlight of the evening was Dave’s hilarious, bordering on raunchy, rendition of “Moon River” giving that song a whole new ‘twist’ to be sure!

What struck me most about this amazing gentleman is his incredible range as a first-rate jazz pianist, wry humorist, and THE American poet laureate of song.  Dave’s easily-identifiable songs which also include “Peel Me A Grape”, “You Are There”, and “Eastwood Lane” are widely performed and have been recorded by Blossom Dearie, Tony Bennett, Diana Krall and many others.  As has been oft-quoted, “In the refinement of his language, he is equaled only by Stephen Sondheim among contemporary American songwriters”.  Mr. Frishberg is embraced in jazz clubs, cabarets, and concert halls all across America and abroad and has made appearances on “The Tonight Show” and NPR’s Fresh Air to rave reviews.

This was an unforgettable evening at Bake’s Place in the company of great friends, and Dave Frishberg will go down in my book as one of my most unforgettable characters.  To read more about Dave’s storied biography and prolific song catalog/discography, please visit his website at www.davefrishberg.net

JAZZVOX CONCERT – ANITA WARDELL WITH BILL ANSCHELL 10/17/10

Sunday drives up to Camano Island for the great JazzVox concerts are always so pleasurable but on this particular Sunday, someone extraordinary was about to grace the stage!  Revered jazz vocalist Anita Wardell, adorned in blue chiffon with a pink rose in her hair, is the epitome of genuine sweetness and unbridled talent.  Anita hails from Britain, was raised in Australia, and found her voice early by tirelessly rehearsing along with the greats such as Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughn.  She has been acknowledged as a female equivalent of Mark Murphy and possesses that rare combination of soulful lyricism and unparalleled improvisational prowess.  She completely charmed the audience with her playful interpretation of such upbeat tunes as “It’s Like Reaching for the Moon” and “In a Mellow Tone”, and her heartfelt, evocative rendition of “It Might As Well Be Spring” and “The Meaning of the Blues”.  Local favorite Bill Anschell accompanied her beautifully on piano and always displays such inventive ideas, even exchanging “improvs” with her on “Don’t Be Scared” and “But Not for Me”. 

I just love her most recent CD “Kinda Blue” and every song is blues-tinged with the word blue in every title.  My hands-down favorite is “Little Girl Blue” written by Rodgers and Hart and sung to exquisite perfection that evening by Anita along with wonderful pianist Andy Carr who sat in.  Anita is as fantastic a person as she is a vocalist and we were privileged to have her coach us in a vocal jazz workshop last Saturday.  She communicates in such a loving manner her extensive musical knowledge and gives out plenty of moral support with a “you can do it” attitude.  If you wish to learn more about this remarkable lady, please visit Anita’s website at  www.anitawardell.com for all her bio info, concert updates and Cd’s.  Nich Anderson is the gracious host of the fantastically successful JazzVox house concert series and makes it possible for us to see such exceptional local and national artists.  For more information and to make reservations for upcoming concerts, please visit Nich’s wonderful website at www.jazzvox.com

2009 JAZZVOX CONCERT SERIES PREVIEW

The 2009 JazzVox concert series, hosted by vocal jazz fanatic Nich Anderson, is in full swing and so far has delivered the goods and how!  The series is now in its second year and continues to enthrall audiences who clamor for more!  On January 10^th, we were treated to a stellar performance by Kathleen Grace, a fast-rising singer/songwriter whose genre-blending artistry is recognized as uniquely fresh and insightful.  On March 6^th, vocalist Stephanie Nakasian took center stage along with husband, bop pianist Hod O’Brien, and brought down the house with her hip, swinging rhythm and hilarious sense of humor.  The most recent concert held March 21^st featured vocalist/trumpeter extraordinaire Jake Bergevin, whose brand of lovingly familiar and refreshingly original jazz along with a generous dose of crooning vocalese took our breath away!

Each concert has been a masterful work of art and a dream come true for Nich!  It means a lot to him for people to enjoy outstanding vocal jazz in his own home and the home of Andy and Patti Carr.  He says, “I first got the house concert bug about eight years ago when I heard Nancy King…THE Nancy King in someone’s living room with just her and the fantastic John Stowell on guitar.  It was so intimate and fun – a real “listening room”.  That’s not to say I don’t love visiting the great jazz venues in the Seattle area.  I wanted to provide venues in places where jazz isn’t happening much (Auburn/Federal Way and Camano Island) while also getting to book the singers that I love.  I’m an avid listener and some of my favorite singers don’t come to perform in Seattle.  My options were to go to them or…provide them with an opportunity and bring them here.  Three years ago I finally bought a place with an appropriate space to host concerts, bought a piano, sound system, 30 folding chairs and…am elated to welcome jazz enthusiasts into my home to enjoy fantastic artists monthly!”

Nich has such a wonderful rapport with his guest artists and nurtures an ongoing relationship with them, bringing out the very best of their potential.  He treats those who attend his concerts with the same respect and garners their sincere admiration and enthusiasm.  The following quotes are rave reviews from a couple of concert-goers:  Ellen Barber Walworth - “I loved the intimate atmosphere and accessibility of the artists.  JazzVox concerts provide a tantalizing mix of great music and great people.  My husband and I will definitely be back for more!”, and Louise Uriu - “It was an incredible experience - to be able to chat one-on-one with the performers.  I feel like I got to know them a bit, and that brings the experience of listening to a great performance to a whole new level!  I’m hooked!”

The upcoming JazzVox performances promise to be just as amazing with Grammy award-winning vocalist/composer John Proulx in April, Australian-born songstress Chris McNulty in May, the incomparable Nancy King along with famed bassist Glen Moore in June, and New Orleans-influenced vocalist Cindy Scott with premier NW pianist Randy Porter in July.   A complete schedule of concerts is as follows:

Fri,   April 17  -  John Proulx, Thomas Marriott, & Chuck Kistler - Camano Island

Sat,  April 18  -  John Proulx scat workshop - Auburn

Sat,  April 18  -  John Proulx, Thomas Marriott, & Chuck Kistler - Auburn

Sat,  May 09  -  Chris McNulty w/ Paul Bollenback - Auburn

Sun, May 10  -  Chris McNulty w/ Paul Bollenback - Camano Island

Sat,  June 13  -  Nancy King and Glen Moore "King & Moore" - Auburn

Sun, June 14  -  Nancy King and Glen Moore "King & Moore" - Camano Island

Sat,  July 18   -  Cindy Scott & Randy Porter -  Bake’s Place (not Nich’s series)

Sun, July 19   -  Cindy Scott & Randy Porter -  Camano Island

If these concerts and artists sound intriguing and you would love to know more about them, please visit Nich’s wonderful website at JazzVox.com.  From there, you can simply make your selections and reserve your seats via advance donation either by check or PayPal online.  All performances are held in two locations - Nich Anderson’s home in Auburn and the home of close friends Andy and Patti Carr on Camano Island.  You will be assured of a beautiful evening with good friends, great cuisine and an intimate setting to hear the very finest jazz.  This fabulous concert series is truly a gem and a special gift to the Seattle jazz scene – will see you there!

JazzVox concert review - Kathleen Grace and Darin Clendenin - Jan. 10, 2009

I had the great pleasure of seeing vocalist Kathleen Grace perform with pianist extraordinaire Darin Clendenin as part of the JazzVox concert series on January 10th.  Kathleen is hailed as one of the most exciting newcomers on the scene today, and her artistry is recognized as uniquely fresh and insightful. 

Songs such as “Bye Bye Blackbird”, “I’ll be Seeing You” and “Angel Eyes” are classics given a new twist with her eclectic styling and inventive groove/textures.  Kathleen also sang her own original songs including “Songbird” and Elijah” so poignantly while creating impassioned poetic imagery.  Her creativity was buoyed that much more by the superlative accompaniment of Darin Clendenin, a well-respected pianist and vocal coach in Seattle.  He plays with great aplomb and in often majestic sweeping chords, yet he can also get into his ‘stride’ groove and keep it swinging.  Together they provided a wonderful evening of fantastic entertainment in the comfort of Nich Anderson’s home in Auburn (locale for his JazzVox concerts @ jazzvox.com).

 As a reflection of Kathleen’s fast-rising popularity, her debut CD “Sunrise” and equally stunning second CD “Songbird” are critically successful releases that reveal her many talents as a lyricist, producer, composer and duo performer.  They feature classic jazz standards and intimate fairy tales of covers from Pat Metheny to Joni Mitchell to the Beatles that amplify her superb genre-blurring dexterity.

 Kathleen Grace and her great band are now poised to dive into new musical territory with their newly release CD entitled “Mirror”.  This CD features almost exclusively original material by Kathleen that embraces the language of rock, folk and jazz which critics describe as “Indie Jazz”.  Each selection from the new project has a modern day fable at its center, and lessons learned and unlearned color their meaning.  These stores of love, power, loss and passion are charming and textured and another facet of Kathleen’s incredibly amazing repertoire.
 
Whether Kathleen Grace performs in intimate settings or in larger venues with her band, she shines ever so brightly on the horizon of eloquent poetic justice and true greatness.  The next time she is in town, come experience for yourself first hand what magic Kathleen weaves with her genre-bending explorations and imaginative sound tapestries.  Until then, check out her wonderful website at kathleengrace.com for all the latest artist bio and concert information – she is simply not to be missed!

JazzVox concert review - Chris McNulty & Paul Bollenback - May 9, 2009

Every JazzVox concert I have attended this year has been absolutely stellar, and the May 9th concert with Australian-born chanteuse Chris McNulty and her husband, famed NYC guitarist Paul Bollenback, was no exception!  A highly acclaimed vocalist-composer with a soaring, luminous quality, a sly seasoned delivery, and a natural sense of swing, Ms. McNulty imparts her own unique magic whether interpreting a languorous jazz classic or delving into one of her adventurous, genre-blending compositions.  Chris’ innovative music draws from such diverse styles as rock, folk/pop and even symphonic, and she possesses a rare natural ability to compellingly make each song her own.  She throws off the shackles of strict meter and melody, bending the rhythms and syncopating phrases in delightful, unexpected ways.

Chris’ songs are a reflection of her immaculate storytelling and she takes liberties with their lines without losing her sense of engagement with the words.  They include an optimistically spiritual “All of You/The Long Road Home” as well as “The Meaning of the Blues” sung with an inventive Brazilian flair.  She also demonstrates her considerable range of dynamics and striking veracity with such poignant classics as “Make It Easy on Yourself” and “My Romance”.

The subtle variations Ms. McNulty applies to each song illustrate her unwavering commitment to jazz and as a consummate artist, her unsentimental approach suggests a certain vulnerability and intimacy.  She is at once a breezy swinger and impassioned balladeer capable of injecting emotion, pathos, irony and  meaning into her work – a gift that few singers can lay claim to.

The perfect accompanist to Chris’ soulful style is her husband, Paul  Bollenback, who plays an eclectic rubato guitar that impeccably underscores her effortless improvisations and nuanced melodies.  Paul displays a dazzling array of exotic effects and alternates beautifully his methods of playing whether strumming in octaves, creating breathtaking runs and harmonies, and plucking notes with an unmatched feverency.  His writing and arranging chops are second to none, and he completes her so beautifully as the pin drop-perfect singer and acoustic guitar duet.  If you wish to know more about this truly remarkable duo, please visit their wonderful websites at chrismcnulty.com and paulbollenback.com.  You may also visit jazzvox.com for all the latest information on equally fabulous upcoming concerts and artists not to be missed!
 

Two Jazz concerts with Nancy King/Steve Christofferson and Nancy King/Glen Moore - May 28, 2009 and June 13, 2009

I had the great pleasure of seeing Nancy King perform at Edmonds-Woodway High School on May 28^th with Steve Christofferson and again at a JazzVox concert with Glen Moore on June 13^th.  If there is a jazz heaven (and I am sure there is), then Nancy King would be the reigning Godmother (pun intended).  People have said that she is the greatest living jazz artist on this planet and her remarkable career has taken her all over the world.  She initially came into the San Francisco jazz scene in the early 1960’s and headlined the legendary Jazz Workshop with her future mate, Sonny King.  She worked also with Vince Guaraldi, John Handy and the great Jon Hendricks, whom she studied with for many years.  In the early 70’s she took a break from touring the States to raise her three sons in Eugene, Oregon.  On weekends, she sang with future jazz stars Ralph Towner and David Frisen, and became great friends with Glen Moore, the iconic bassist for internationally renown ensemble “Oregon”.  Her collaboration with Glen led them to record three albums on the Justice label, “Impending Bloom”, followed by “Potato Radio” and “Cliff Dance”, released in 1994.

Nancy King also was performing with vaunted pianist/composer Steve Christofferson, and in 1993 they released a duo album “Perennial”.  They went on to perform at festivals in France, Israel, and Canada and in 1997, Mons Records released “Straight into your Heart” featuring Nancy and Steve with the Metropole Orchestra, recorded in Holland.  In 1999, Nancy toured Italy with famed bassist Ray Brown and superb guitarist John Stowell, and in the summer of 1999, she and Steve Christofferson flew to Bulgaria to headline the Bansko International Jazz Festival.

In recent years, Nancy has collaborated with acclaimed vocalist Karrin Allyson and the eclectic guitarist/poet Elvis Costello,  and in 2006, recorded a duo release with brilliant pianist Fred Hersh entitled “Live at Jazz Standard” in NYC.  Through the years and still today, critics rave about her absolutely thrilling improvisations and flawless technical wizardry.  Nancy enthralls audiences with her effortless scatting and supple voice and injects great humor and pathos into everything she does.  If you have only heard about her, she is an awe-inspiring luminary in person – take it from me.

Her jazz duets with Steve Christofferson (on piano and melodica) May 28^th were nothing short of spectacular and they complimented each other as if they had never  been apart for some years before.  She shone at her best on “All the Things You Are” by Jerome Kern, and Steve was equally mesmerizing on the tune “Sugar” by Stanley Turrentine.

Nancy King then performed with her other long-time partner, famed bassist Glen Moore, at the JazzVox concert in Auburn on June 13^th.  Nancy was her fascinating yet unassuming self with such witty satires as “Cliff Dance” and “Alligator Dancing”, as well as the exquisitely poignant “Crooked Road”.  Glenn Moore accompanied her with great care and gave a brilliant display of his robust approach and dazzling “special effects”.  I am still reeling from the wondrous experience of seeing Nancy perform so gracefully with Steve and Glen – Both evenings were sheer ecstasy and magic that I will always remember in my heart!

2010 JAZZVOX CONCERT SERIES PREVIEW

Nich Anderson’s dream come true of an extraordinary vocal jazz house concert series in his FederalWay/Auburn home has certainly taken flight as we celebrate its second-year anniversary in January, 2010.  Nich is the JazzVox host and a member of the lauded Seattle Jazz Singers.  I have had the great pleasure of attending every concert in 2009, and his most recent offerings were nothing short of spectacular with East Coast chanteuses Patti Wicks and Hanna Richardson in October, soul-satisfying sensation Kenny Washington in November, and fiery, passionate songstress Jackie Ryan and the iridescent Typhanie Monique in December.

I and many of Nich’s fans and friends eagerly anticipate this year’s stellar concert lineup and he exudes so much enthusiasm talking about it - “The second season was so fantastic including one of my all-time favorites Madeline Eastman.  Year 3 is starting off with the amazing Jo Lawry (who has recorded recently with Fred Hersch and Sting) - her freshman disc is such a breath of fresh air - I’m just so excited she’s coming!   Many of the artists have expressed interest in repeating so we’ll have return visits from some JazzVox concertgoers’ past favorites in addition to some new names.“
           
This incredible concert series continues to garner rave reviews from newcomers and long-time friends as Louise Uriu who says, “I have been to several JazzVox concerts and have always been thrilled with the opportunity to chat one-on-one with the artists.  Not only do I get to gab about various musical ideas, but I also get to know them as a person!  Talking about family, food and travels - it really makes the experience meaningful!  Plus - Patti makes the most delicious treats for us after the show - worth the price of admission right there!”

The artists who perform at the JazzVox concerts “…always come away with a full heart” as Nich says affectionately.  This is reflected in the words of Patti Wicks, who wowed jazz devotees in October with her soulful, nuanced vocal delivery and highly personal piano style.  “What a joy it is to play for Nich Anderson’s first-rate JazzVox Concert Series!  He gives his artists first-class treatment professionally and personally.  I love the warm and friendly living room setting in both Nich’s cozy Auburn condo and the Carr’s lovely Camano Island home.  JazzVox concert venues have a great piano and sound system, friendly, appreciative audiences, and great home-made food for the after-concert “hang”.  It doesn’t get any better than that!”

The schedule of 2010 Jazz Vox concerts through April is as follows:  January - brilliant jazz songstress Jo Lawry w/Bill Anschell; February - mega-talented vocalist/bassist Kristin Korb w/Randy Halberstadt; March - renowned singer/educator Stephanie Nakasian w/Bill Anschell; April - Grammy award-winning vocalist/composer John Proulx w/Chuck Kistler.  Specific dates and times for these concerts will be available upon confirmation as well as information on upcoming concerts May through December.

Not only will you be treated to these exceptionally fine artists but following the show, a sumptuous gourmet buffet awaits you lovingly created by Patti Carr, a close friend and colleague of Nich’s.  She and her husband, pianist extraordinaire Andy Carr, also host JazzVox concerts in their lovely home on Camano Island, so you could potentially see a concert in each locale all in one weekend -  what a golden opportunity!

If this is your cup of tea and would love to learn more, please visit Nich’s wonderful website at jazzvox.com with all the latest artist and concert information, previously held and upcoming.  After making your selections, simply reserve your seats via advance donation either by check or PayPal online.  You are sure to enjoy a truly one of a kind concert experience with good friends, great cuisine and the very finest in vocal jazz -  we’ll see you there!

               

JazzVox concert review – Jo Lawry with Bill Anschell - Jan. 23, 2010

I enjoyed a most memorable evening with Australian-born (New York based) vocalist Jo Lawry and Seattle’s own pianist extraordinaire Bill Anschell as part of Nich Anderson’s JazzVox house concert series, and she truly is a revelation!  It’s no small wonder that Jo has emerged as one of the most uniquely gifted and charismatic artists in a very long time.  She has collaborated with such luminaries as Fred Hersch, Sting, Bobby McFerrin, and Kate McGarry to name a few and continues to enthrall peer musicians and audiences alike wherever she goes.

Her refreshingly spontaneous delivery and nuanced vocal inflections perfectly revealed a varied palette of emotions and each song was an absolute treasure.  She sang an eclectic array of arrangements from stunning originals to inventive re-imaginings of favorite classics.  They included her hauntingly beautiful “The Water is Wide” and “Prelude to Happiness” as well as Johnny Mercer’s “I’m Old Fashioned” and Egberto Gismontis’ infectious Brazilian tune “Loro”.

Jo Lawry’s voice is like a finely honed instrument that displays impeccable improvisational prowess, and her way with words and phrasing are sheer eloquence.  Jo’s sunny demeanor coupled with her incredible musicianship, irresistible sense of swing and fearless attitude make her a force to be reckoned with in the jazz world, and she will be long remembered for years to come.  Her debut album entitled “I Want To Be Happy” features the above songs plus duo selections with guitarist Keith Ganz, and simply defies classification while demonstrating her seemingly limitless range.

It was such a privilege to be able to see her in an intimate house concert setting and no doubt she’ll make a return visit in the very near future.  Please visit Jo Lawry’s MySpace site, www.myspace.com/jolawry for music samples and her upcoming gigs as well as Nich Anderson’s wonderful website, jazzvox.com, for all the latest JazzVox concert and artist information.

Two JazzVox concerts for the ages - John Proulx at Auburn and Camano Island, WA

John Proulx is an extraordinarily gifted vocalist, reminiscent of the incomparable Chet Baker, whose mellow, understated delivery underscores a canny sense of rhythm.  He performs with impassioned zeal and freshness yet pays true homage to such jazz masters as Hoagy Carmichael and George Gershwin.  His great respect for the lyric and melody shines in every song and he infuses each with such love and wisdom.  John is also an outstanding Grammy-winning songwriter and plays a sizzling hot, swinging piano as well.  He has composed for such luminaries as Jazz legend Nancy Wilson and in recent years teamed with bassist Chuck Berghofer and drummer Joe LaBarbera on both his splendid CDs “Moon and Sand” (2006) and “Baker’s Dozen” (2009).

I had a fabulous time seeing John perform in a concert on Friday, April 9th in Auburn, WA and again on Sunday at Camano Island, WA as part of the JazzVox house concert series.  Nich Anderson is the series’ wonderful host and features sensational national and local vocalists to rave reviews.  Both settings provided an enchanting, intimate experience which beautifully complimented John’s considerable charm and exquisite musicality.  John shared delightful insights into each song’s origin and made the music come alive with his heartfelt renditions.  His ballads and original pieces are particularly pristine, notably “I Remember You”, “Time after Time” and John’s own composition “Welcome to my World”.  He also revealed his lighter side on toe-tapping tunes as “Look for the Silver Lining” and “Hey Boo”.

John Proulx is one of LA’s world-class emerging talents and has already begun to gain national prominence following his successful 4-month stint at Loews Regency Hotel in NYC.  This engagement was offered to him by Michael Feinstein, a seasoned and celebrated singer/pianist in his own right.  John has that unique, special “something” that appeals to a great many people and I am so confident that he will go well beyond his highest aspirations.  Next time he is in town, come experience for yourself what magic John weaves with his effortless improvisations and enticing, nuanced vocal style.  Until then, check out his fabulous website at johnproulx.com for all the latest artist bio and concert schedule information, as well as updates on his upcoming CD – he is simply not to be missed!

Jazz Vocalist/Trumpter Phenom Jake Bergevin at Bake's Place - June 11, 2010

I went to Bake’s Place in Issaquah on Friday, June 11th and had the great pleasure of seeing vocalist and trumpeter extraordinaire Jake Bergevin.  He is one of the nicest people you’ll meet and has a mega talent to match with his effortless crooning vocalese, inventive original compositions, and sensitive re-imaginings of works by such artists as Kurt Elling and Leonard Bernstein.  His rendition of the classic standard “I’ve Grown Accustomed to Your Face” and a fresh arrangement of Sting’s “The Girl with No Regrets” were shining examples of his varied, eclectic repertoire.  Joining Jake that evening was an exceptional rhythm section comprised of Dan Kramlich on piano, Brad Boal playing drums, RJ Whitlow on bass, and local favorite Susan Pascal playing vibes.  Jake’s second set was themed around songs of New York and the debut of brand new material for him.  Especially wonderful were his takes on “New York, New York”, “Let Me off Uptown” and a couple of songs dedicated to two famous NY bridges, “Chelsea Bridge” and “Brooklyn Bridge”.

Jake is the gifted jazz band director at Edmonds-Woodway High School and in May, gained national recognition for his band’s participation in the famed Essentially Ellington competition at Lincoln Center, NYC.  He also fronts his popular big band, “Javatown Swing Orchestra” and will be performing with them for the 13th year in a row at Ellensburg’s Jazz in the Valley on Saturday, July 31st.  Jake’s exciting summer performance line-up also includes PLU (Pacific Lutheran University) Jazz under the Stars on Thursday, July 15th, The Bloedel Reserve Concert Series (Bainbridge Island) on Saturday, July 17th and The Mill Creek Community Summer Concert Series on Thursday, August 5th.

Jake Bergevin is such an integral part of the Seattle jazz scene and performs at private engagements, house concerts, restaurants and supper clubs in addition to the numerous prestigious festivals and events he participates in each year.  His effervescent energy, classy style, as well as a disarming sense of humor always delights audiences wherever he goes.  Please visit Jake’s wonderful website at: jakebergevinmusic.com for his artist bio, concert schedule, and all the info on his two acclaimed CDs, “My Name is Jake”, and “Holding Back the Dawn”.  He is at once the consummate entertainer and an evocative artist simply not to be missed!

JAZZSCAPES - A NEW CONCERT SERIES IN SEATTLE

I was one of the lucky jazz devotees who enthusiastically attended the October 2nd debut concert of a brand new house concert series in Seattle entitled "JazzScapes".  It is offered by favored vocalist Julie Olson and budding pianist Ivy Nugent as a way to feature amazing local and national jazz instrumentalists and vocalists in a comfortable, cozy setting.  Located in West Seattle, the views of the Sound are gorgeous and folks have a chance to mingle over a delectable dessert and beverage bar as part of this wonderful event.

The featured artist of the evening was Shanna Carlson, a San Francisco-based singer and pianist who expresses her unique charm and style with a warm, contralto voice that gently swings and conveys the inner essence of the lyric.  Not only is she a consummate interpreter of standards but also a truly gifted composer.  Shanna started with playing for her church in the Bay area and became a national and international sensation appearing in locales such as Portland, Dallas and Chicago as well as Sweden, Norway and England.  For more information on this fantastic artist, please visit shannacarlson.net

JazzScapes promises to be an incredible concert series offered on a regular basis, and is a welcome addition to another very popular local house concert series, JazzVox, hosted by Nich Anderson.  I have attended every one of Nich's concerts and am sure to be a steadfast follower of JazzScapes as well!  Please visit jazzscapes.com for all the latest event and artist information and experience for yourself another fabulous opportunity to hear intimate live jazz in Seattle!

Acclaimed Jazz Vocalist Jackie Ryan at Bake's Place - Oct. 8, 2010

     The incomparable San Francisco-based vocalist Jackie Ryan was a revelation Friday night at Bake's Place, the premier jazz and blues supper club in Issaquah!  She eloquently echoed the sentiments of those who lost and those who found love with her exquisite ballads and brought the house all the way down with smokin' hot blues numbers.  Jackie's exuberant Brazilian songs of Carnival and searing love songs sung in Portuguese were memorable and she pulled out all the stops that evening!  Her banter with the audience was both spontaneous and infectious, and I especially enjoyed the loving anecdotes she shared about great composers as Antonio Carlos Jobim, Abbey Lincoln and Johnny Mercer.  Jackie's rendition of classic songs as "Old Black Magic", "No More Blues" and "Throw It Away" was further testament that she is indeed in a class of her own.

     I've seen Jackie a number of times in an intimate house concert setting, and this performance with a remarkable rhythm section equally showcased her myriad of amazing talents.  Pianist extraordinaire Randy Halberstadt never sounded better and was buoyed so masterfully by the great Jeff Johnson on bass and esteemed drummer Gary Hobbs.

     It was truly an evening to savor and remember at Bake's Place and am eagerly anticipating the next time Jackie Ryan is in town.  For all of Jackie's stellar Cd's, bio information and upcoming gigs, please visit her wonderful website at jackieryanmusic.com