jazz changes

 COURTNEY PINE AWARDED C.B.E

Courtney Pine CBE

In 2000 Courtney Pine was awarded an OBE for his services to Jazz and it was announced yesterday (31/12/08) that he will be honoured again with a C.B.E (Commander of the British Order) in the New Years Honours 2009.

Courtney Pine

Speaking about the award he said;

“I AM DEEPLY MOVED TO BE HONOURED, I NEVER IMAGINED THAT I WOULD BE RECOGNIZED FOR PLAYING IMPROVISED MUSIC IN THE UNITED KINGDOM IN THIS WAY. THIS ACKNOWLEDGEMENT FOR WHAT I THINK OF AS A NOBLE MISSION IN UNITING PEOPLE THROUGH SOUND COULD NOT HAVE BEEN REALIZED WITHOUT THE LOVE, SUPPORT AND DEDICATION OF MY FAMILY, MANAGEMENT, BAND AND THE MANY SUPPORTERS OF MUSIC THROUGHOUT THIS LAND -

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU”

COURTNEY PINE

A tireless ambassador for the music in the UK and beyond, Courtney this year gigged with a new version of the Jazz Warriors and released a well-received album Afropeans, in part his own reflection on the bicentenary of the abolition of slavery in the former British Empire.

Jazz Warriors AfroPeans CD

He has also dedicated much time and effort to his own record label Destin-e, which released the debut album by the critically acclaimed band Empirical and will produce and release a new recording from Omar Puente in 2009. In February he releases his new album, Transition in Tradition, a homage to saxophone pioneer Sidney Bechet and returns to a busy touring programme which includes a gig at Ronnie Scott’s on February 28th and a string of dates with the Jazz Warriors Afropeans lineup.

He is also a recipient of the prestigious Gold Badge Award from the British Academy of Composers and Songwriters, has received a Fellowship to The Leeds College of Music, was awarded a doctorate of music by The University of Westminster and made a Professor of Music by Thames Valley University.

NEW ALBUM TRANSITION IN TRADITION - OUT FEB 23RD 2009 ON DESTIN-E WORLD RECORDS

COURTNEY PINE NOMINATED FOR BEST JAZZ ACT, MOBO AWARDS 2008 WINNER BEST JAZZ ACT - URBAN MUSIC AWARDS 2007 WINNER BEST UK SAXOPHONIST - RONNIE SCOTT’S AWARDS 2007

JAZZ WARRIORS AFROPEANS NOMINATED FOR ‘JAZZ LINE-UP OF THE YEAR’ - BBC JAZZ AWARDS 2008

* Jazz Warriors Afropeans recorded live from London’s Barbican - OUT NOW ON DESTIN-E RECORDS

For all media enquiries please contact:

Nikki Neave, Management for Courtney Pine at  

Collaboration,  33 Montpelier Street Brighton BN1 3DL

A short video excerpt from Roger Robinson’s latest performance @ www.bookslam.com :

 \”Unsticking\”, performed live by Roger Robinson @ Bookslam

ABOUT ROGER ROBINSON
Roger Robinson emerged in the early nineties as one of spoken words most inventive performers bridging the gap between literary and popular culture scenes. A native of Trinidad and Tobago, who has taught English literature at colleges and schools across the country, he has become one of England’s most intelligent and gifted poets of diasporic consciousness.

Sensing the increasing economic constrictions and diminishing opportunities that would soon place a stranglehold on the more adventurous aspects of poetry and spoken word, Robinson adapted to become quite a musical performer. Now usually leading a band on frequent club dates, Robinson began writing and performing poems for other bands and musicians he’d meet. It was that he gained musical respect in these circles as a musician his own right. These include Techno Animal, Flytronix, The Bugz, Attica Blues and Speeka to name a few. A teaming of Rob MacDonald from Speeka with Robinson on his debut album, Illclectica, led to the contribution of the production to the project. The album was released 2004 on Altered Vibes. 2005 saw The Armed and Beautiful EP following suit, with collaborations from J Todd, Elmore Judd, Dobie and Drew Horley. Robinson has just finished the King Midas Sound album with Kevin Martin called “Super Heavy”, to be released on Hyperdub. He is currently recording his sophomore solo album and touring with his band Roger Robinson and The Shout.

Highlights of the BBC introducting Stage at the LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL 2008 where three original members of the J-Life crew were in attendance and performing!

Firstly, Messrs Taylor and  Crosby in the  London-based quartet The Mighty Jeddo, with a blend of bass line heavy jazz and featuring Shabaka Hutchings on saxophone and Peter Edwards on Keys.  Roger Robinson Guests to herald that “Jazz is Dead”:

http://www.bbc.co.uk/music/introducing/artists/mightyjeddo/

Plus, Pianist Robert Mitchell accompanied by drummer Richard Spaven and bassist Tom Mason combine to make the Robert Mitchell 3io who play freeform jazz mixed with electronic and rock music.

Robert Mitchell
http://www.bbc.co.uk/music/introducing/artists/robertmitchell.html

full line up for the BBC intrroducing project at http://www.bbc.co.uk/music/introducing/

Jazz Alive invitation

Clive Powell and The Jazz Alive Team would like to invite you to the final presentation of our project work, followed by the awarding of certificates by a surprise Special Guest.

 Join Clive for drinks at 6pm and performance at 6.30pm

 RSVP admin@jazzalive.co.uk

About The Jazz Alive project:

For 12 weeks 25 young people selected from all over London have been grooming their talents through the Heritage Lottery Foundation Roots project, Jazz Alive. These events are hosted by  award winning musicians Soweto Kinch and Orphy Robinson, they also appear as special guests with the Jazz Alive Ensemble.

Through the project, the group performed in the London Jazz Festival and with the Edge Festival in Hoxton.   This included a performance  in the Ballroom at the Royal Festival Hall, Herbie Remixed programmed by Artist in residence Renell Shaw who is also one of the Jazz Alive players.

Catch them whilst you can, they’re the rising stars of tomorrow, performing original music and new arrangements of jazz repertoire.

“The best time to plant a tree was twenty years ago.  the second best time is now”

Taoist proverb

Kuumba Strings

Kuumba Stringz Christmas Concert 2008 Monday 22nd December 2008

Baptist Church Cann Hall Road
(corner with Blenheim Road)
LEYTONSTONE, E11 3HP

CONCERT STARTS 7:30pm
Adults: £5
under 16s: Free

Tickets available on the Door Refreshments also  on Sale

A Medley of Christmas String Performances by

Kuumba Stringz
Kuumba Junior Celloz
Kuumba Violinz
Kuumba Stringsz Ensemble
Ebony Stringz

With a guest performance and morning workshops
by international Cuban jazz violinist
Omar Puente of the Courtney Pine Band
http://www.myspace.com/omarpuentefiffe

For more information please contact
Pamela Bell
07977 487 131
aneltapbell@hotmail.com

The British Libraries event ‘Taking Liberties: the struggle for Britain’s freedoms and rights’ was closed by Roger Robinson and his four piece band comprising of Taylor – Double Bass (Mr Taylor), Drums - Cheryl Alleyne, Keys - Chris Jerome and the man himself Roger Robinson, taking charge of the microphone. At the end of an inspired evening filled with exceptional performances from high calibre artists including: Levellers and Eliza Carthy, Roger and his band continued along the same vein, took to the stage, then cranked it up two notches.

The ferocious, energetic intro launched from the start was fuelled with passion, charisma and edge. Poet Roger Robinson’s hip-hop, jazz infused music and modern day griot/narrative style are both unique forms alone which combined cannot be adequately described in writing. One would expect spoken word or poetry to be performed in its standard, ‘typical’ format however it would be advised to expected the unexpected from Mr Robinson who kicked off the set with an explosion of vocal artillery aimed with innate precision at the audience with the vigour of a rock star. Rock star chutzpah aside, Roger’s music is a successful example of the blending and melting of varied soulful genres topped with a rich lyrical icing.  Roger’s vocal articulation enabled each audience member to get a feel of his own deep belief in his musical/poetic works of art. The uniqueness of his lilting ‘Trini’ dadian twang over each cleverly woven consecutive masterpiece added an element of intrigue, contrasting with the music and complimenting every pleasing sound.

The British Library audience’s reception confirmed that they were drawn from the beginning.  It was hypnotic.

Impressively, each piece had a philosophical angle that subtly invited the listener to think deeply about the words being delivered. Furthermore, once ensconced; after endeavouring to explore any aspects of each work piece; be it through the beat, double bass, lyrics or chord structure - in fact every element, it was possible to discover new hidden textures in the mix while being offered a viewpoint.  His hard-hitting words were relevant and poignant with bite, encompassing subjects including political, current affairs, and his own personal responses to today’s UK Youths’ plight with ‘Postcode Beef’. 

Whatever your favourite element of Ths Shout’s music, on display was extreme aptitude from each musician; their contributions were powerful and they were unified as a band; the close-knit team exemplified connectivity through their art and you could witness their seriousness, working hard throughout the performance to deliver their messages through music. The contrasting urgency against the laid back and chilled out assuredness that any accomplished performer worth their salt has, was certainly demonstrated and a pleasure to witness.

The deeper meaning of the music makes Roger Robinson an artist ‘with purpose’ relaying important observations and offering insight on taboo subjects. His skills of performing, connecting and mastering the craft of performing over the exceptional pieces of music together with The Shout with such intensity, are exemplary. 

Any performer with the ability to keep a crowd going after a long night of entertainment such as this is one not to take lightly. Roger Robinson and The Shout closed the event leaving the audience on a conscious high.

Musicians:

Roger Robinson – words

Cheryl Alleyne – Drums

Chris Jerome – Keys

Taylor – Double Bass

Set:

Cool Out! (Taylormade)

I am (Taylormade/Louis Gines)

Prayers for Angry young Men – Taylormade

Jazz is Dead (Jerome/Taylormade/Daniel Crosby)

Killing Suite for Stephen Lawrence (Jerome/Alleyne/Taylormade)

Unsticking (Julie Dexter Arr Taylormade)

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/rogerrobinsonmyspace

Reviewed by Danelle Harvey

Julian Joseph Trio @ Ronnie Scotts. Click to Book

“We seek to speak the language of truth.” 

Julian Joseph

Virtuoso pianist, bandleader, composer, arranger and broadcaster, Julian Joseph is the undisputed heir to the global house of jazz. Acclaimed by critics and audiences the world over, Julian never fails to inspire with his mastery of the keyboard, the versatility of his musicianship, and the seemingly limitless scope of his creative imagination. Always relaxed and self-assured, Julian is completely at home on any stage and in front of any band. His passion for the music is palpable, and his desire to communicate that passion compelling.

Over the past two decades Julian has developed and expanded his musical capabilities in a staggering array of formats. As a solo performer he holds audiences rapt from the minute he sits down at the piano, undaunted by either the vastness or intimacy of the platform. He is to be seen at all the major international festivals, has toured the globe with his Trio and Quartet, Electric Band and Forum Project band, and directed and performed with his All-Star Big Band at some of the grandest venues in the UK to audiences of thousands.

   
A feature of a Julian Joseph concert is the wide-ranging repertoire of original compositions and arrangements upon which he draws. Challenging and innovative, they are deeply rooted in the jazz tradition and, as with all great jazz music, combine his own unique voice with those of his predecessors.

Friday 28th November - Saturday 29th November @ Ronnie Scotts, 47 Frith Street Soho London W1D 4HT

reservations

T 44 (0)20 7439 0747
F 44 (0)20 7437 5081
Tickets £20.00 - £36.00

The 16th  LONDON JAZZ FESTIVAL kicks off today!  ten days of the best jazz in the capital.  Here’s a few of the things that I’ll be involved with, in and around the festival:

Courtney Pine; Tradition in transition

Courtney Pine + special guests Empirical

Thursday 20th November 2008 / 19:30  @ The Barbican

Courtney Pine’s Transition in Tradition - A tribute to Sidney Bechet

Courtney Pine is at the forefront of the UK jazz scene, continually pushing at boundaries and reinterpreting the tradition. His new project is inspired by Sidney Bechet, the legendary New Orleans saxophonist who initially inspired him back in the 80’s. A new set probes the Bechet legacy in typically original style, a medley of musical and cultural contrasts rooted in Bechet’s Creole heritage, whilst using the language and energy of today’s jazz.

Empirical
Courtney’s Destin-e label released Empirical’s first recording last year. Making a massive impact on Festival stages in Europe and the States, this is a quintet immersed in the jazz tradition – but with a keen eye on the future. In an echo of Courtney’s performance, Empirical’s Festival set will in part celebrate the 80th anniversary of the birth of another massively influential reedman, Eric Dolphy.
Thursday 20 November 2008 / 19:30

Barbican Hall, Barbican Centre
Silk Street London
EC2Y 8DS

Telephone numbers
Box Office & Membership: 020 7638 8891  (9am-8pm daily)
Group Bookings: 020 7382 7211 (Mon-Fri 10am-5pm)
Switchboard: 020 7638 4141
Tickets: £10 / 20 / 25
subject to availability

The Mighty Jeddo @ The London Jazz Festival

Senza Lamento

  Senza Lamento (Without Lament) 

 If you met yourself ten years ago, what would you say?  What advice would you give?  And would either of you listen? This physical theatre performance explores the impact of the inevitable changes every person experiences through the years and the reluctance to come to terms with them. 

A new work of physical theatre  by Maria Rita Salvi and Nicole Pschetz  featuring the music and moods of     Jazzreloaded and its many collaborators.

(Corner of Tooley St. & Bermondsey St.)
Thursday 27th November 2008
Performance in the bar @ 1pm
Tickets: £5 ( includes a free sandwich and drink  ) 

 

Roger Robinson

 

Thursday, November 27, 2008klam Road
Roger Robinson and The Shout @ Bookslam

12 Acklam Road London, W10 5QZ
Doors open at 6.30pm, stuff starts at 8pm

Tickets: £6 in advance/ £8 on the door (£6 NUS)

Come gather around the old joanna for the Book Slam Christmas knees-up in association with the estimable organisation that is Apples & Snakes. Enjoy perspicacious poetry from MALIKA BOOKER, the rhythmical rhymenocerous that is ROGER ROBINSON and a lot less alliteration from Mercury-nominated UK hip hop don, TY.

There will be more guests, there will be more details, they will follow shortly, but book your tickets while the going is good.Doors will open at 6.30, stuff will start at 8, and stuff will stop late. Good food available.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

JazzAlive

 

 

For 12 weeks 25 young people selected from all over London have been grooming their talents through the Heritage Lottery Foundation Roots project, Jazz Alive. These events are hosted by  award winning musicians Soweto Kinch and Orphy Robinson, they also appear as special guests with the Jazz Alive Ensemble.

 

 

 

 

This week they will be performing in the London Jazz Festival and with the Edge Festival in Hoxton.

 Saturday 15^th November 3pm in the Ballroom at the Royal Festival Hall, Herbie Remixed programmed by Artist in residence Renell Shaw who is also one of the Jazz Alive players.  This is a free event.

In the evening see them at Hoxton Hall, Shoreditch performing along with other youth ensembles and bands. Entry £2 under 18’s £7 for over 18’s.  INFO AT www.hoxtonhall.co.uk

Catch them whilst you can, they’re the rising stars of tomorrow, performing original music and new arrangements of jazz repertoire.

Their final London date is December 4^th at the Roundhouse, Camden see www.roundhouse.org.uk for booking or visit our website www.jazzalive.co.uk for the link. 

JazzAlive - Info

PLUS!

An opportunity to meet the modern day jazz historian Soweto Kinch, one of the key forces keeping Jazz alive!  He’ll be appearing  alongside  Juliet Kelly, Abraham Wilson and Seb Rochford as part of a special panel discussion  on ‘Successful Careers in Jazz’  , hosted by  the Musicians’ Union in partnership with The London Jazz Festival,  on Tuesday 18th November 5:30pm - 7:30pm , in the Sunley Pavilion at the Royal Festival Hall. email Jo Laverty [ jo.laverty@musiciansunion.org.uk ] ASAP for info and tickets!

From the mind of Des Taylor,  illustrator for the  jazzreloaded project, comes Katie Rogers, your not-so-average modern day working girl!  And for the preview trailer for the hottest action heroine to cross the atlantic, Des  personally chose the title track “You’re Fine” from salsa sensation Alex Wilson’s latest album “Salsa Con Soul” which is available in US Stores from 1st November

The UK album Launch for Salsa Con Soul will take place at

 London’s  Jazz Cafe on 21st November 2008  - Click here for tickets!

Alex Wilson's new album. Click to hear music

Ever since Alex Wilson released his first Salsa album “Inglaterra” last year in 2007, salsa fans all over the world were dancing to his hit tunes “Ain’t Nobody, Show Me and Inglaterra.”  The UK Salsa scence’s best kept secret,  Alex Wilson’s  music retains its’ underground sound, but with that hard hitting Afro-Cuban beat mixed with Rhythm and Blues, and with  soulful  vocals from the likes of  Mary Pearce, Aquilla Fearon and Lauren Dalrymple, thousands of fans worldwide in clubs are screaming for more of Alex Wilson - including Yours Truly, Ms Katie Rogers!

And to all that have been waiting for news Katie…wait no more! taylormade studios has put pen to paper and signed with APE ENTERTAINMENT-www.apecomics.com  to produce their first graphic novel,  choc-full of short stories from contributing writers, comic strips and a full length graphic story of one of Katie’s many capers around NYC.  

Katie’s 8000+ myspace fans will have to wait a little while longer to see their heroine on the shelves- JUNE 2009 is the official launch date - but now at least they have Alex’s music to get them in the mood. There will of course  be a couple of launch parties with the usual jazzreloaded vibe,  so keep your eye on this space!

For any other enquiries on the publishing go to www.apecomics.com or drop an email to
berwin@ape-entertainment.com

For enquires regarding Alex Wilson’s new album contact

Katie Rogers. Coming soon