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doodlinlounge podcast

Jazz

Here in my Doodlin' Lounge we try to take you on a musical fantasy. We search the globe for musicians with soulful messages and playful hearts.

Location:

San Jose, CA

Description:

Here in my Doodlin' Lounge we try to take you on a musical fantasy. We search the globe for musicians with soulful messages and playful hearts.

Language:

English


Episodes

Episode 139: James Francies in the Doodlin' Lounge

3/15/2024
Pianist, Composer and Producer, James Francies comes to us from the musically fertile city of Houston, Texas. There he benefitted from the camaraderie that exists within the ever-expanding group of like-minded musicians. Fellow Houstonians like Robert Glasper and, more recently, Bobby Lyle have helped James along the way in ways that transcend the normal classroom exposure. As a youngster, James studied classical music while also playing in the church. His musical scope continues to expand as he brings new and exciting sounds from keyboards and synths into his composing. James has an enormous talent that manifests itself in his unbelievable fingering and left hand prominence. He has played and recorded in the traditional piano trio format as well as in a myriad of other small and large group ensembles that feature his work with multiple keyboards, synths and, of course, the acoustic piano. James is literally a force to be reckoned with and appears to have a limitless future in our American Classical Music.

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 138: Omar Sosa in the Doodlin' Lounge

3/9/2024
Pianist Omar Sosa joins me from Barcelona, Spain for a conversation and exploration into some of his recent recordings and up-coming concerts. Originally from Cuba, Omar Sosa has traveled the world and melded the sounds that he hears into his own unique musical interpretation of life and spiritual enlightenment. He is a most interesting individual who has much to say and readily digs deep into the metaphysical aspects of life. His collaborations with others are discussed as well as those musicians who have consistently been a part of his ensembles. Now based in Barcelona, Omar returns to the States periodically to his enthusiastic fans with new music and spectacular concerts. He holds on to his tradition with sonic (and always percussive) adventures that thrill his audiences.. He is a 'one-of-a-kind' musical icon who deserves greater recognition and acknowledgement.

Duration:00:59:40

Episode 137: Eki Shola in the Doodlin' Lounge

2/26/2024
Eki Shola is an intriguing instrumentalist and vocalist who presents a duality that, heretofore, has not been realized in my Doodlin' Lounge. With music as her true love, she forges on as a doctor of medicine (known in that world as Dr. Edwards) and somehow blends these two careers into something very special, as evidenced by her latest music in this Kaeru album. Several tracks from this recording are heard in this episode as well as a few from artists who have influenced her. Her musical background is eclectic as is her whole being. She fell in love with the country, culture and people of Japan years ago and has since incorporated elements of this sacred region into her musical creations. Her varied background and living environments have caused her to question a belonging to one specific geographic area as she appears to be a multi-cultural and, certainly, multi-faceted individual. Enjoy the music; the lyrics and the mind of this most fascinating soul: Eki Shola.

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 136: Dr.Teodross Avery in the Doodlin' Lounge

2/21/2024
Dr. Teodross Avery is a living example of how academia can and will enhance a musician's mind and music. Not aiming for a doctorate in music initially but sensing that it might give him a leg-up in the music world, Teodross pursued a doctorate degree and in 2012 achieved his academic goal. In conversing with this gifted musician today, one soon realizes his level of awareness and intuitiveness in not only understanding the lineage of this American Classical Music but how to continue its evolution and captivate audiences with a properly conveyed message. Teo is a tremendous talent who has immersed himself in all aspects of this living musical form that we call 'jazz'. He has studied the music intently and (as evidenced by his newly released Harlem Stories: The Music of Thelonious Monk) has truly created a foundation for himself from which to illuminate his purpose. Teo composes music, teaches what he has learned to college-level music students and records music at the highest level of creativity. Enjoy this marvelous musician and gifted educator: Dr. Teodross Avery...

Duration:00:59:40

Episode 135: Lisa Parrott in the Doodlin' Lounge

2/14/2024
Saxophonist Lisa Parrott is known as both a first-call altoist and baritonist. She can be heard in any number of musical configurations from duets with various instrumentalists to accompanying vocalists to the big band experience of the DIVA Jazz Orchestra. Her sound is big and accommodating in any and all musical situations. With over thirty years in New York City under her belt, Lisa has done it all and is relentless in her quest for more exposure and accreditation as a top-shelf saxophonist. Early in her career, playing and recording with her sister, vocalist and bassist, Nicki Parrott was protocol. Today the sisters have carved out their own paths and musical voices. Their Australian beginnings, however, remain important to them in their quest for musical truths. In this episode, we hear a combined effort of the sisters as well as the diverse directions that Lisa has followed. New music is promised from Lisa as well as nuggets of wisdom from a player who was captivated by the American jazz as a child and who has conquered it as an adult. Enjoy this gifted player here in my Doodlin' Lounge.

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 134: Greg Murphy in the Doodlin' Lounge

2/6/2024
Pianist and Keyboardist Greg Murphy has a brand new release coming out February 15 called 'You Remind Me' (Whaling City Sound Records) and it's dedicated to his late wife Nancy. It's fitting that we hear this music today along with Greg's dialog about the life and love that he and Nancy shared. Beginning in his early days growing up in Chicago, Greg describes his chance encounter and subsequent studies with Ellis Marsalis; his migration to New Orleans and his eventual move to New York City where he played with some of the finest musicians that City had to offer...including the late drummer, Rahshied Ali. Greg's discography - the surface of which has not been scratched in this DL episode - reveals a mixture of styles and rhythms and the personnel reads like a 'who's who' of jazz. Enjoy a true master of the keys who has a genuine heart that feels the music from within and only wishes to be a catalyst for love and concern for others. Happy Valentine's Day from Greg and company in my Doodlin' Lounge.

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 133: Mike LeDonne in the Doodlin' Lounge

1/27/2024
Pianist/Organist Mike LeDonne returns to my Doodlin' Lounge on the eve of a very important CD release. His latest effort is simply called 'Wonderful' and it sums up - in this one word - his feelings about music and the experience of raising a daughter with disabilities. Margaret and Mike Le Donne have done wonders in increasing the awareness of people with special needs and society''s perception of this population ever since their daughter was born some nineteen years ago. Mike was instrumental in establishing the Disability Pride Parade in New York City in 2015 and, as a result, has created a much wider understanding of people with disabilities and how society should and must treat them. To bring this into focus, Mike has recorded his Groover Quartet juxtaposed to a gospel choir with the help of Carolyn Leonhart. Listen to Mike's message and enjoy the history-making tracks that he and his Groover Quartet AND gospel choir have given us.

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 132: Javon Jackson in the Doodlin' Lounge

1/20/2024
Saxophonist Javon Jackson has certainly been enjoying an illustrious career... one that has found him in the company of world class musicians from the outset. Being selected to follow Jean Toussaint in Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers, until the passing of the great drummer and band-leader, to stints with folks like Freddie Hubbard, Elvin Jones and numerous other notables are examples of his rise to fame. More recently, Javon's music merged with the music of Les McCann as the two of them rose to further prominence as an international festival act. Javon has been releasing new product periodically on his own label: Solid Jackson Records while recorded gems can always be found in the Palmetto catalog. He continues to teach, compose and tour with various ensembles... gracing stages in cities throughout the States and around the world. Enjoy this peek into Javon's life and times together with a few tracks from his marvelous discography.

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 131: Don Gardner in the Doodlin' Lounge

1/16/2024
Drummer, band leader and music producer Don Gardner shares his stories and music in this episode of my Doodlin' Lounge. Don passed in September of 2018 at the age of 87 but during his life he did much to enhance the fields of music education and performance. Working with Philadelphia's famous Clef Club gave Don a platform from which to accomplish his many goals. He, like many others from his generation, was 'there' when it all came together in the worlds of Rhythm & Blues and Jazz. His 12 year association with organist, Dee Dee 'Foots' Ford, was an iconic one, to be sure. In this episode, Don talks about the under-recognized Dee Dee Ford and how his original Sonotones grew in popularity with the addition of young Jimmy Smith in the early fifties. Don may be gone but there are those like myself who will never forget the wisdom that he passed on to us... and will treasure the gifts that he left us.

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 131: Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Tribute (part 1)

1/15/2024
This is part 1 of my MLK Day tribute. It will air tonight on KCSM.org between 6:00 and 9:00 PM PST. Parts 2 & 3 will be uploaded upon request

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 130: Audrey Ochoa in the Doodlin' Lounge

1/2/2024
Canadian-born, trombonist Audrey Ochoa is soaring high in the music world these days with her newest CD release, 'The Head of a Mouse' (from Chronograph Records). The music is organic and original with nods to family, friends and musical associates. Raised in a musical family, Audrey knew from jump-street where her life was headed. With a father who taught and mentored music students to an accordion-playing mother who devoted a portion of her life to schlepping her daughter from rehearsals to gigs, the trajectory of Audrey's career was set. An admitted lover of pop music, Audrey uses its fundamentals to create a myriad of jazz and world music pieces that have created an original brand. This, together with her foundation in classical and ensemble work, has helped to create an unique musical personality and an ever expanding repertoire. Enjoy this 'breath of fresh air' approach with one of the musical stars of today.

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 129: Charles Covington in the Doodlin' Lounge

12/9/2023
For those of us who are serious jazz organ lovers, the legacy of this music and the lineage of its players are of utmost concern. Charles Covington is one very important player in the scheme of things and must be considered one of the most resourceful in the class of jazz organists who followed Jimmy Smith's reign.. His contributions have been plentiful and are deserving of national and international acknowledgement. Charles is a modest man who has taught for many years at the Peabody Institute and Howard University. He has played a major role in jazz education and live performances in the Washington DC and Baltimore arenas and his musical accomplishments have been matched only by his individual triumphs as a master chess champion, notable magician, and award winning weight lifter (among an assortment of other skills). Charles is truly a 'Renaissance Man' with a fascinating history and a plethora of knowledge. A conversation with Charles can go anywhere and reveal any number of important facts about this music. Enjoy the samplings of recorded tracks I have in this episode and the casual, yet informative, words of a true legend in the world of jazz organ.

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 128: Mike DiRubbo in the Doodlin' Lounge

11/23/2023
Saxophonist Mike DiRubbo continues to rise and shine! His most recent recording - 'Inner Light' - reveals his prowess on the alto as he soars through eleven tracks (nine of which he composed and arranged himself) in the company of organist, Brian Charette, guitarist, Andrew Renfroe and drummer, Jongkuk Kim.. Mike's sound is fresh and his style robust. Enjoy the conversation and music of this seasoned reedman at his finest here in my Doodlin' Lounge.

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 127: Tyreek McDole in the Doodlin' Lounge

11/14/2023
Vocalist Tyreek McDole is destined to reach fame any minute now. At 23, this young lion sounds like he's been around a very long time with his energetic vibe and 'old soul' nuance. Discovered by his high school Music Director during the production of a play, Tyreek would soon put his trumpet down and take over the role of vocalist. Blessed with a remarkable baritone voice, Tyreek took to this new role as a duck would to water. As the word got out, he would be invited to numerous jam sessions; Emmet Cohen's streaming events and various gigs where he would sit-in and catch the attention of more and more influential people. Then, after a chance meeting at the Blue Note with saxophonist, Eric Wyatt, he was asked to consider singing a newly written tune ('Where Do Dreams Go'). that was originally intended for Samara Joy's consideration. Tyreek knocked it out of the part as you will hear in this episode of my Doodlin' Lounge. At this point, Tyreek is on a fast trak to the top with his participation in the Sarah Vaughn Vocal competition (Nov 19) and the ever increasing opportunities to perform on his own and with selected musicians, Tyreek is on a high! Enjoy this up-coming star now, here in my Doodlin' Lounge.

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 126: Brandon Sanders in the Doodlin' Lounge

11/6/2023
Drummer Brandon Sanders has made the top of the current Jazz Week Charts with his maiden voyage release of 'Compton's Finest' on Savant Records With the help of his good friend Willie Jones III, Brandon has assembled a marvelous quintet featuring pianist Keith Brown, vibraphonist Warren Wolf, bassist Eric Wheeler and tenor saxophonist Chris Lewis. The music within this new CD is straight ahead and aimed at the core of the jazz fan world. It's tight, familiar and comfortable to the ears. Along with the guidance of Willie Jones III, Brandon has relied upon the life lessons he has gathered from being a collegiate basketball star and full-time high school counselor in the New York City area. Brandon is quite the renaissance man with a wonderful outlook on life and a budding career as a top-shelf jazz drummer. Enjoy the music and dialog of a truly wise and talented man.

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 125: Tod Dickow in the Doodlin' Lounge

11/3/2023
Saxophonist Tod Dickow has been on the scene for many a year, performing with a variety of groups and touring with the popular 'Charged Particles' band nationally and internationally. His sound is big and bold and his references deal with the many disciples of John Coltrane. Michael Brecker, in particular, has influenced Tod's musical perspective. Like so many other musicians, Tod held a day-gig for three decades while developing his music career. Today, he finds himself retired from the 'work-world' and devoted to his music alone. He has been a 'first-call' tenor saxophone voice for years in the Bay Area but also handles the flute and clarinet assignments admirably.. Tod is an under-recorded master of the sax and is certainly deserving of wider and deep recognition. Enjoy this casual conversation with Tod and the variety of recorded efforts I was able to uncover.

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 124: Kait Dunton in the Doodlin' Lounge

10/21/2023
One of today's brightest stars on the musical horizon has to be Kait Dunton... Her prowess at the keyboards (any keyboard!) has surprised the jazz world and securely positioned her as a top tier player and performing artist...not to mention the session work that she does in the studio. I first heard and met Kait at the 2023 Monterey Jazz Festival. There, I witnessed, first hand, the stage presence; band leadership and performing style of this gifted artist. Beginning as a pianist, Kait moved quickly to an assortment of keyboards and electronic instrumentation. She even has a Hammond C-3 and Leslie 122 speaker in her home studio that she fiddles with. She, admittedly, favors vintage gear whenever possible. Her career, so far, has been a rapid climb to the top as she continually composes and records with her own band and is now in the festival circuit which can only mean more exposure and increased notoriety. Kait is not only an accomplished musician but she has spent her fare share of time in academia (at the doctoral level) and continues to educate others and advance her own knowledge base. Enjoy one of our best-kept-secrets, Kait Dunton, in my Doodlin' Lounge

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 123: Tina Raymond in the Doodlin' Lounge

10/15/2023
Drummer Tina Raymond visits with us in this episode of my Doodlin' Lounge after a brief west coast tour with her trio comprised of guitarist, Andrew Renfroe and bassist, Karl McComas-Reichl. Her newest release (Divinations) boldly creates music and rhythms to coincide with and help visualize the significance of Taro cards. Previous to this offering, Tina rearranged some socially significant songs (patriotic hymns, folk songs and protest anthems) in her 2017 release, 'Left Right Left'. She is an outspoken and articulate advocate for music education and social consciousness.. As director of the Jazz Studies Department of Music at California State University, Northridge, Tina represents all that is good about drumming/percussion and the academic road to success in this and any other musical field. Please enjoy this brilliant contributor to the arts: Tina Raymond

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 122: Carey Frank in the Doodlin' Lounge

10/10/2023
Carey Frank visits my Doodlin' Lounge once again with fresh ideas and new music. Continuing to expand his musical horizons, Carey talks about touring with a Led Zeppelin cover band; his many activities in the Los Angeles arena and plans for the future. As a jazz organist, he still carries his own Hammond B3 and Leslie speaker in a van and insists on the 'authentic sound' of a tone wheel organ whenever and where ever possible. The opportunities in southern California continue to fall his way as he works with high-profile artists; spends time with studio work and goes above and beyond the call of duty when it comes to spreading the Hammond organ sound across his landscape...enjoy

Duration:00:59:41

Episode 121: The Huney Knuckles in the Doodlin' Lounge

9/30/2023
The Huney Knuckles is a group of young and progressive hipsters who have a groove that is keeping pace with (and sometimes surpassing) what's happening today! The group's leader, Kevin Wong, is an amazing keyboard player who handles the bass keys and bottom-end all the way home! This includes his use of bass sax on occasion. Brian Sheu plays guitar as does Kelyn Crapp; Tony Peebles handles the reeds; Uriah Duffy is sometimes on bass; Louis Fasman and Skylar Tang play trumpets; Darian Gray plays drums and Christian Pepin adds percussion. This is a highly popular group of musicians who have sprouted-up from various other bands with an array of musical experiences - all coming together to form their own contagious 'Huney Knuckle' sound. Now, well on their way to a recording career and rigorous performance schedule, the Huney Knuckles see and hear the sky as their limit. Enjoy

Duration:00:59:42