doodlinlounge podcast

Saxophonist, Bob Kenmotsu may be the best tenor saxophonist you haven't heard. Maintaining a somewhat low-profile here in the Bay Area, Bob has solidified his position amongst the tenor titans of his generation and has a formidable track record to prove it. Coming from the somewhat isolated Stockton, CA area, Bob remembers finding out about Charlie Parker later on in his musical matriculation. Once he left central California, however, Bob found a rich and promising learning environment in New York City. The twelve years he spent in the Big Apple yielded numerous and invaluable experiences that helped create a head of steam which took him to far away places with living legends like Billy Hart, Jack McDuff, Ruth Brown and Pat Martino, (to name a few). While living and playing in Japan for another three years, Bob distinguished himself in the land of his forefathers receiving awards and helping spread the universal language of jazz.. Bob is an accomplished composer, educator and performer who has focused on the tenor saxophone and established his own, identifiable sound, manner and style - goals that all seek to achieve. Enjoy the thoughtful conversation elicited from this most important jazz instrumentalist, Bob Kenmotsu.

Saxophonist, Kristen Strom stops by my Doodlin' Lounge for a long-awaited visit. Kristen has been recognized as one of the leading and most sought-after reed players in the Bay Area. for as long as she's been on the scene. Her gift of performing on stage is only matched by her continuous work in jazz education. A long-time member of the Stanford Jazz Workshop family, she continues to inspire young players both in the classroom and on stage while maintaining her own (busy) performance schedule.. She has been a part of numerous musical and theatrical shows in and around the Bay Area which have included Pamela Rose's 'Blues is a Woman', Rhonda Benin's 'Just Like a Woman' and collaborations with pianist, Tammy L:.Hall and groups like 'Crossing Borders' and (earlier in her career), 'The Nuclear Whales'. Kristen continues to collaborate with her husband Scott Sorkin who not only plays magnificent guitar but also composes, arranges and records their.new music as they create it. Kristen's words are thoughtful and her role as a jazz educator and first-call saxophonist are an invaluable part of our Bay Area music scene.

Trombonist Steve Davis is everywhere! He has long since become a 'first call' trombonist for numerous recording projects; fortified his own discography with one winning album after another and has established himself as one of the top New York-based musicians on the scene today. Steve earned his stripes having been schooled and mentored by folks like Nat Reeves, Jackie McLean and Art Blakey along the way. Currently, Steve joins his wife, Abena Koomson-Davis, on stage for her vocal gigs as well as his son, Tony Davis, for his guitar gigs. It has definitely become a family affair. Steve has been into jazz education for well over thirty years and continues to groom young and gifted talent both in the classroom and on stage. This was a real treat for me to present Steve Davis in my Doodlin' Lounge and I hope you all enjoy the conversation and the music...

Leonard King is a true renaissance man. Drumming has been his life or so it would seem. He grew up with a tremendous respect for music mainly due to his exposure to records that his father would circulate within the Detroit area via juke boxes and the servicing of these vitally important platforms to distribute the music of the day. Young Leonard was listening to every type, style and genre of music from jump street and because of the gift of a tape recorder from his father one Christmas, Leonard launched the practice of recording all or most of the music that he and his young bandmates could create. Today the Dr. Professor has an enormous library of his own recordings and those from the various bands that he has been with along with the commercial efforts put forth with players like Lyman Woodard, James Carter and others.. In this episode of my Doodlin' Lounge, Dr. Prof. Leonard King educates us in the evolution of his own music and the manner in which R & B and Jazz music has made its mark in our world of American Classical Music..

Austrian-based organist, Raphael Wressnig has a saying: 'The Groove Never Stops!' - and he holds true to this in each of his performances. Choosing the Hammond organ and Leslie speaker as his main means of expression was the best choice he has made. His love for the Hammond and Leslie sound is matched only by the infectious groove that he is able to elicit from the pair. Whether it's Blues, R & B or Jazz, Raphael jumps in with both hands and feet to deliver just what his audiences want: to move and have fun!. It's dance music; party time and 'go for the gusto' when Raphael sits at the organ. Adhering to the basic combo of organ, guitar and drums, he surrounds himself with other instrumentalists when the occasion arises, offering everyone a chance to let the Good Times roll. In this episode of my Doodlin' Lounge, we visit with Raphael in Austria as he prepares for his next tour - this time Brazil. His live shows are not to be missed and his recorded efforts are not to be ignored. Raphael Wressnig is a force to be reckoned with!

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.

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.

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.

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...

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.