Big Fun December 2009

4 THE MIX

Variety Entertainment

6 DINING & WINE

Dawson’s Bar & Grill

8 JEWELRY

Jewelry Designer

Jodi Johnson

9 FINE ART

Mark Larson

10 STYLE

Mr. Mac’s

Style Tips for Men

MUSIC

11 BLUES

Susan Sims

/ Red hot Blues Sisters

NW JAZZ

PROFILE

12 THE GIFT

OF MUSIC

Holiday Greeting

from NW Musicians

13 ARTIST PROFILES

HipBone

Liz Aday

14 WHAT’S NEW

Brad Buck

Darrius Willrich

INSIDE

DECEMBER, 2009

EMAIL: [email protected] - 253-473-1866

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • DECEMBER, 2009 3

PUBLISHER / EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

DAVID JOHNSON

Accounting / Editorial Traffic: Rose Murphy

Proofreaders: Ce’Lene Sakellis, Larry Warfield

Photography: Sean Cummings, Walter Atkins, Richard Baker

Advertising Sales: [email protected] 253-473-1866 - David Johnson

and Gary Grape

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE is published 12 times a year. The views

expressed in BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE are those of their respective

contributors and are not necessarily those of its publisher, editors, or staff. All images in

advertisements and advertorials/special promotions are supplied by the advertiser. Advertiser

guarantee they have the legal right to publish all images supplied to BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT,

ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE.

Copyright 2009 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE.

EMAIL: [email protected]

253-473-1866

5226 Tacoma Mall Blvd., Tacoma WA 98409

BIG FUN

ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE

11

9

14

4 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • DECEMBER, 2009

THE MIX

Variety Entertainment

The Cranberries - Dec 7

The Moore Theatre- Tacoma, WA

Corea, Clarke and White - Dec 10-12

Jazz Alley - Seattle, WA

Bob Saget - Dec 12

Moore Theatre - Seattle, WA

Straight No Chaser - Dec 19

Rialto Theater - Tacoma, WA

Randy Oxford - Dec 26

Highway 99 Blues Club - Seattle, WA

Vicci Martinez - Dec 31

Jazzbones - Tacoma, WA



How long have you owned Dawson’s?

Since July, 2001.

You have changed the bar quite a bit. You

changed the outside a little, but the main

changes are in how it’s operated. How do you

describe the bar today?

Today it’s a safe, friendly neighborhood bar. It’s

multi-cultured and multi-aged with good people

who come here to relax and meet with friends.

Plus, we have lots of darts, great food, good

service some of the best music in Tacoma. For

the most part, it’s a joint where everybody gets

along.

What’s with the Darts?

We have weekly $300.00 tournaments on

Sunday and Wednesday nights and a $1,000.00

tournament on the third Saturday of the month.

These are all doubles tournaments where two

players per team play the best of three games.

Players are rated by skill level and by league

play by meda lists who run the leagues.

Dawson’s currently has 40 league teams. We’re

the fourth largest dart house in the nation. Our

weekly tournaments draw between 12 to 20

teams, and our Saturday tournaments draw

between 20 to 30 teams.

What type of music do you book?

Good music. We have R&B, Rock-N-Roll and

Blues and try to cater to the over 30’s crowd.

Some of the bands are: The Highrollers, The

Tim Hall Band, The Billy Shew Band, Randy

Oxford, Rock-N-Roll Magic, Hero, In The House

and Knuckleheads.

And what about the food?

We serve great tasting comfort food in large

portions. People love the food because it’s good

and they can get full. We serve a variety of deli

sandwiches, hot sandwiches, big salads,

hamburgers, nachos, meat loaf, spaghetti and

more. We will be serving Broasted Chicken

soon. Plus, we serve breakfast Wednesday thru

Sunday from 9am to 5pm.

What’s the most rewarding aspect of running

Dawson’s?

I like to watch people enjoy themselves in a safe

atmosphere while eating happy food and

listening to some of the best musicians the

Northwest has to offer.

What is the most demanding aspect?

Trying to keep the drama out of the bar.

What’s your business philosophy?

Give people a good product at a fare price and

they will buy it. Say what you mean, and mean

what you say.

Why do some people succeed and others fail in

any endeavor?

I don’t know. Failure is never an option. If you

put your heart and soul into something and try

your hardest, it’s not failing. Ok, having a good

game plan and doing your homework is also a

must.

Dawson’s Bar & Grill is located at: 5443 South

Tacoma Way, Tacoma, WA. Their phone number

is 253-476-1421

Photos Courtesy of Dawson’s Bar & Grill

Q&A with Owner

Kenny Bender

Dawson’s Bar & Grill

Tacoma, WA

French Dip Sanwich

Grilled Chicken Salad

DINING & WINE



JEWELRY

Studio Jewelry Design: Jodi Johnson

Jodi Johnson, a fourth-generation jeweler, finds

inspiration for her designs in the natural world

that surrounds us. Jodi’s work plays on the

meanings of the word “nature”: Nature as an

impetus for behavior/instinct, Nature as the

essence of a physical form, and Nature as a

universal object. Focusing on the intrinsic,

fundamental, and innate themes in nature, she

transforms natural materials through various

metalsmithing processes into works of wearable

art . Jod i studied jewelry and holloware

techniques at the University of Washington,

earning a Bachelor’s of Fine Art in Metal

Design in 1995. Concurrently, she earned a

Bachelor’s of Arts in Art History, which has

provided her with a broad understanding of the

role of art in many societies. One of her favored

themes is folklore and myth in world cultures,

and so she weaves those threads into her jewelry

creations.

Jodi enjoys exploring new and innovative

methods, which are generally absent from

commercial jewelry production. In the last few

years, she has developed a special technique

with very fine wire, creating textural contrast

to the solid metal frames that are typical of her

designs. She al so

spec ial izes in

reticulation, which is a

type of heat distortion of

a silver-alloy sheet into

unique surface forms,

qu ite remin iscen t of

mountainous topography.

Jewelry is often designed

around a cen tral

gemstone. In pieces Jodi

crea tes for her own

designs, she loves to work

with agate chalcedony,

especially gems carved by

famed lap idary ar ti st

Dieter Lorenz, of Idar-

Oberstein, Germany. She

hand selec ts every

component of every piece

she creates, as well as

constructing and finishing

herself. Jodi also accepts

commissions for custom

designs. These pieces are

especial ly spec ia l,

because they combine the

skill and design sense of

the creator with the often

unique aesthetic desires

of the wearer.

Jodi Johnson works out of

her studio located in

Johnson Jewelers,

downtown Puya llup.

Besides making jewelry

art, she provides the creative direction for this

111-year old family business, which specializes

in custom designed jewelry. In May of 2008,

Johnson Jewe le rs presented a 15-year

retrospective exhibit of her work, “Materials

Transformed”. Her work is currently available

only through Johnson Jewelers. She has been

featured in Metalsmith magazine, and was the

NICHE award winner for Cast Metal in 1996.

Commercial jewelry is designed to offer broad

appeal. In contrast, studio jewelry is art, and

will appeal to an individual who relates to the

piece aesthetically and/or emotionally. Whether

mass-produced or one-of-a-kind, all jewelry

should express something about the wearer, as

it is adornment for the body.

Jodi Johnson - Johnson Jewelers

103 South Meridian, Puyallup, WA,

253-848-1332, www.johnson-jewelers.com

Photos by Richard Nicol

Jodi Johnson

Jewelry Designer

Pele, sterling silver, chalcedony agate

Niangniang, sterling silver, fine silver, 22K gold, moss drusy agate

Hekate, sterling silver, fine silver,

black drusy chalcedony


Artist Statement

My pain ting sty le can probab ly be best

described as “painterly realism.” It involves

the use of small pencil, charcoal and oil studies,

until I settle on an idea that I feel is worthy of

exploration in a larger context. Even then

however, sometimes my work doesn’t meet my

own standards, and I will sand it down and start

over or simply paint over it. I find this process

liberating and empowering. I often paint on

panel rather than canvas because it suits my

tight painting style and is much more durable.

Currently, I am interested in exploring unique

metaphorical juxtapositions that revolve around

the convergence of time, place, and memory.

FINE ART

These juxtapositions create intens ity and

mystery, and invite thoughtful contemplation.

Sometimes they may seem incongruous and

appear to border on the absurd (a peacock paired

with a volcanic eruption, for example). Their

meanings are nonetheless important to me at

the time, and open to personal interpretation. I

like it that way. Symbol and myth have become

an important way for me to convey my ideas

through my artwork, but not all symbols mean

the same things for everyone. May it always

be so.

Mark Larson - Winged Lion Studio

253.241.8190 e-mail:

[email protected] web:

www.marklarsonart.com

The only thing that separates us from animals

is imagination. -Goya

Mark Larson

Rising Tide - Self Portrait - Oil on panel

Chrysalis - Oil on panel


LOOKING GOOD

STYLE

1. For Private Parties

When attending a private party, ask the

planner if the setting is casual or semi-

formal. If it’s casual, feel free to match jeans

with a nice blazer or sweater. Color-code your

shirt and slack and let your blazer or

sweater add the right touch of color.

If it’s semi-formal, ask the planner if you

happen to know any of the other guys who

will be there. This way you can gauge how

casual or formal you might want to be

depending on the fashion sense of some of

the other guys who will be there. Shoot for

the upper middle on the gauge.

2. For Clubs

If you are going out to a club, think about

where you’re going and match your outfit

to the ambience of the club and the other

people who will most likely be there. It’s

never a good feeling when you’re stuck in

a club looking like the odd duck. It won’t

matter if you are over dressed or under

dressed, either way, the stares will be

murder.

3. For Formal Outings

If it’s a formal affair, it’s simple, go in

your best formal duds.

4. For Getting Help

If you’re single and on the prowl for

female company, go to a few of the better

fashion outlets in your area and ask a

knowledgeable salesperson – female - if

one is available, what’s hot right now. And

if you need to purchase an item or two to

enhance what’s already in your closet, choose

things that you can wear over and over again

in different settings. Think about the colors

and fabrics you already own and buy items

that will blend with your existing color pallet.

5. For Going Out with Your Wife

If you’re married, it’s simple, ask your wife.

It doesn’t matter if she has good or bad

fashion sense because it’s never a smart idea

to outshine your lady in a social setting. Go

for balance. You will either be the fashion-

forward couple or the couple that keeps it

real, either way, you will arrive looking like a

couple and that’s all that counts.

For Putting Your Look

Together for the

Holiday Party Season

5 Tips

MR. MAC

1958 2009

Special Promotion

Mr. Mac

1210 MLK Jr. Way, Tacoma, WA

253-383-1210

All Photos courtesy of Mr. Mac

Mr. Mac’s Style Tips for the Fashion-Challenged Man


Why is music such an important part of

being human?

It can instantly mark time with an emotion and

mark it for the rest of your life.

What does the blues mean to you?

The Blues means you get to feel! The Blues

takes you completely and does not mind rolling

you on the ground or making you dance.

Tell us about your new/latest recording.

‘Red On Blue’ from Peace Code Records in

2008. It was self-produced by the Red Hot Blues

Sisters—Teri Anne Wilson and myself. It is now

distributed in Japan Canada and Europe. We

focused on capturing our live show talent and

energy. It was completed in eleven days, from

click to mix, at The Tank with Tom Pfaeffle.

What’s new with your music career?

We are looking for a new producer. The only

Red Hot Blues Brother -Tom Pfaeffle was shot

and killed on July 17, 2009. We had twenty

years with him and his sweet family. He’s

simply the best. Teri and I are sorting nearly

forty tunes this October. Our release of ‘Red

On Blues’ to Japan is new, and we will return

to Europe again in Spring of 2010 with our US

band.

What is your most significant achievement

as a performer?

Each time I am asked to perform, and setting a

12K attendance record in Switzerland.

What is the difference between peace and

satisfaction?

Peace requires stillness. Satisfaction requires

grease.

What does success mean to you?

Success is the ability to pay-it-forward—passing

on knowledge, opportunity, or techniques.

What are the obstacles you have to overcome

when searching for gigs?

Finding touring musicians who are willing to

do homework for their instrument. I don’t like

to teach tunes; I prefer to rehearse the show.

Which tour will you remember forever?

This ‘09 tour was pretty mind-blowing. We

played Memphis, changed personnel, moved,

lost Ted after Europe; lost Tom in July, and

toured every song recorded with Tom at

extraordinary shows.

What is your valuable attribute?

My voice has characters/textures I use for each

song, melody or story.

Other than singing, what is the greatest love

of your life?

Fishing, football, and telling stories until you

pee.

What turns you off?

Realizing I am too loud. Having to tell the band

they’re too loud.

What turns you on?

Kissing with your eyes in a public place.

Who would you like to work or tour with?

Brickhouse of Vancouver BC, Mia Dyson and

Wes Mackey. I’d like to record at Abbey Road

with the above and Annie Lennox, Bettye

Lavette, Chrissie Hynde, Joan Armatrading,

Bonnie Raitt and with god-brother/engineer,

Brian from LA.

Performance schedule

12.13.09 Forecasters Redhook Brewery

12.18.09 Japan Release of ‘Red On Blue’

Discography

Available at shows and at

cdbaby.com/cd/rhbsisters3

Red On Blue Nov ‘08

SUSAN SIMS

Lead Vocalist for Seattle’s Red Hot Blues Sisters

MUSIC | BLUES

“The one thing you must realize about

the business of the blues is… it never

stops and it always tells you the truth.

Everybody is presumably ballsy in this

genre. Get ready for that and don’t take

it personally.”

Feel the Burn Aug ‘07

Hot Off the Press ‘06 EP

Flood in the Basement ‘04 EP

www.peacecoderecords.com/

Red_Hot_Blues_Sisters.html

Email address: [email protected]

Holiday Greetings from NW Musicians

THE GIFT OF MUSIC

sama Afifi

Happy Holidays!

Upright and electric

Bassist Osama Afifi, a

recent addition to the

Pacific Northwest via L.A.

has toured Internationally

with Yanni, Vanessa

Paradis,Tribal Jazz and has performed at the

North Sea, Istanbul, Nice, and Monterey Jazz

Festivals with the B Sharp Jazz Quartet. He has

also worked with David Keys, Kareem Kandi, Gail

Pettis, Darren Motamedy, Hook Me Up, Jeff

Lorber, Kurt Elling, Nnenna Freelon, The Fifth

Dimension, Mindi Abair and The Doors on VH1’s

Storytellers. He also conducts a jazz combo

workshop at Ted Brown music in Tacoma.

Available for live, studio and private lessons.

206-877-2285

[email protected]

www.myspace.com/osamaafifi

Dina Blade

Happy Holidays from Rio

de Janeiro! Best Wishes e

Feliz Natal, Dina Blade

D’Vonne Lewis

I would like to give a shout

out to everyone out there to

be safe in this weather and

its ever-changing conditions. Enjoy the time

spent with your family and friends. Keep

practicing, swinging, grooving and staying true to

yourselves and the music. Peace.

www.dvonnelewis.com

[email protected]

The Collective!

Season’s Greetings from

The Collective!

Wishing you a holiday that

is bright and filled with the

sweet melody of joy and

laughter. May your New

Year be filled with peace and your life filled with

music.

The Collective is your premiere choice for

entertainment.

Call 253.833.6487; Email [email protected]

Becki Sue & her

Big Rockin’

Daddies!

To our families, friends,

fans and live music

lovers... Happy Holidays

and a “Blue Yule” from Becki Sue, T-Boy, King

Harpo, WildChild and Mr. Foundation of Becki

Sue & her Big Rockin’ Daddies! Our CD’s make

great gifts! Please go to our Music Store at

www.bigrockindaddies.com. See ya at the blues

club!

Brooks Giles III

Happy Holidays

Saxophonist/Vocalist

Brooks Giles III has been

on the international music

scene for several years.

The Brooks Giles Band

was the first act ever to be

featured on The

Hennessey X.O. Smooth

and Mellow Asian Jazz Tours in 2002 and 2003.

Brooks has also spent time touring Europe and

South America.

Having lived and worked in New York City as a

performer and educator for over twenty years,

Brooks and his fellow musicians bring a high

level of intensity to various forms of music in the

African-American tradition.

[email protected]

www.brooksgiles.com

Butch Harrison

It’s the time of year once

again where the theme,

love, is universal and the

gift of music is always

appreciated. I hopefully

will have the opportunity to

share the gift of music this

holiday season with you in

some way, whether it be live or on CD. Here’s

wishing you and yours a very joyous holiday

season, and a very prosperous new year. Show

some love.

New CD: What It Is

Available at cdbaby.com/cd/butchharrison

Holiday price $10.00 thru Thursday, December

31 at 12:00 pm

Musically yours - Butch Harrison

Sandy Harvey

Happy Holiday to all. And

thanks to all of you who

come out to the various

venues to support

performers and live music

in the area. I look forward

to seeing you soon. Please

visit

www.sandyharvey.com for

my performance schedule.

HipBone

HipBone wishes you a

Merry, Soulful Holiday, and

prosperous next year! May

we artists and performers

gain acknowledgement for

the enhancement to the

lives of our audiences, and

continue to have the

energy to bring our music to the world. Thanks to

those who help us in our attempt!

Buck England - b3buck@gmail

Jho Blenis - [email protected]

Micharl Slivka - [email protected]

myspace.com/hipbonestrio

Tracey Hooker

Greeting. As we all know,

the Holidays can be a

trying time for many

individuals and families, yet

we can still enjoy music

together and all have our

special memories of the

good times. I personally find Vince Guaraldi’s

Charlie Brown Christmas brings out my peaceful

spirit. My children have grown to embrace this

music as much as me and I can hear the tea

kettle singing and smell the fresh-baked cookies.

Happy Holidays To All.

Kareem Kandi

Seasons greetings to one

and all. To fellow

musicians: Thanks for your

time, talents, and

friendship.

To supporters of the band

and our music: Thank you for continually coming

out to shows and enjoying the music. We

appreciate you. All the best to you and yours -

Kareem Kandi

www.myspace.com/kareemkandi

David Keys

Can you name more than

two forms of thought? All I

can find are: Original

Thought and Memories.

We are thinkers. We are

creators. We are seekers.

Matter is an illusion... we

are not our physical

bodies. Time is only

relevant. All life is important. Is a spider a living

creature? Do you kill it without thinking about

what you are doing? May we please grow to

become more than cavemen with space smart

phones. May we all find meaning in life. Seek

truth.

Steve Kim

Seasons Greetings!

Please join me this holiday

season for an evening of

music and cheer at these

venues during the month of

December.

The Mix - 6006 12 Th. Ave.

S (Georgetown)

Seattle, WA - Tuesdays, 8-10:30 PM

Hotel Deca-District Lounge

4507 Brooklyn Ave. NE, Seattle, WA

Wednesdays & Saturdays, 8-10:30 PM

www.kimpossibilities.net

Thomas Marriott

Thomas Marriott’s new

album on Origin Records,

Flexicon is one of the

hottest albums of 2009. It

spent 14 weeks on the

national jazz charts

peaking at number 10 and

features stellar

performances by the Seattle-based trumpeter as

well as New York vibist Joe Locke. Get your copy

today!

Mercedes

Nicole

Happy Holidays to all!

I’m wishing each and

everyone a joyous and

prosperous New Year!

Thank you for all your

support in 2009, and I’m

looking forward to seeing you all in 2010! May

your days be filled with joy and laughter! I’m

working on some amazing music that I know will

be uplifting, as well as entertaining.

www.mercedesnicole.com Mercedes Nicole - A

Voice Worth Remembering....

www.mercedesnicole.com

www.myspace.com/

mercedesnicolemakesmusic

Booking/Questions Call:

206-235-0478

LJ Porter

Hello to all the music fans

here in the great NW. I

want to wish each and


NW JAZZ PROFILE


every one of you a fabulous Holiday Season.

Enjoy eggnog, warm cozy fires and the laughter

that happens this time of the year. This is one of

the most blessed times and one of the most

beautiful. So please have a joyous season so you

can get ready for all the fabulous music coming

your way in 2010. Happy Holidays!

Paul Richardson

I and my family wish all

music lovers the grace and

mercy of Love, light and

spirit in this time of

celebration of the birth of

the Messiah, God’s

salvation for man. I pray

you and yours get what you

truly need. LOVE - Paul

Richardson

http://www.paulrichardsonmusic.com

(206) 760-9086

Rich Wetzel

“Rich Wetzel’s Groovin

Higher Orchestra “

Happy holidays to

everyone at Big Fun

Magazine and all your

readers everywhere! Big

Fun and all the fans of the

band and your magazine make the holidays

special. We hope to see you at our Stan Kenton

Christmas show on Dec 5th at TCC, details http:/

/www.brownpapertickets.com/event/84429 or 1-

800-838-3006.

www.richwetzel.com, www.myspace.com/

groovinhigher

These seasoned pros have known and

respected each other for many years. They

finally came together to perpetuate the classic

and not-so-classic Hammond Organ, Guitar

and Drums trio sound that was established in

the 1950’s and 60’s.

Jho Blenis, on guitar, is a well-known player

of all styles and a much sought after

instructor. He deserves his award-winning

“icon” status.

Michael Slivka, on drums and

percussion, has worked most venues

and festivals with many of the best

since coming home to the greater

Pugetropolis.

Clifford ‘Buck’ England, on the

Hammond B-3 Organ, was “taken” by

the Hammond Organ! While appearing

at most local venues and traveling

around the west, most of his energy

has gone into performing with the

traditional (and not-so-traditional)

Hammond Sound.

The group is determined to make

their whole greater than the sum of its

parts and won’t be sidetracked by their

individual projects which only serve to

sustain the band. HIPBONE is their

passion.

Be on the lookout for

HIPBONE’S first self-produced

recording which will be coming soon.

You can find out more about the band and

contact them at:

www.myspace.com/hipbonestrio,

www.buckengland.com, [email protected]

The group is determined to make their whole

greater than the sum of its parts...

What’s new with you guys? What’s happening?

What’s new with SWAY? We keep busy between

shows! Currently, we are working on our digital

media— new video, demos, and photos, as well as

a website facelift. Aside from that, we are constantly

watching Billboard for songs we might pick up that

would turn us on as well as the audiences and

venues. We are a group of fun-loving, seasoned

musicians who genuinely enjoy what we do and

each other and we aim to pick music that facilitates

contagious FUN! We provide a show that keeps

people dancing and smiling.

Who does what in the band, as far as choosing

the songs, arranging and producing the music

and booking the shows?

Well I, Liz Aday, am the bandleader. I deal with the

bookings and whatnot. The song choices are voted

on. We have a broad scope of eclectic tastes among

us. I do my best to keep it as balanced as possible

to feed each band member ’s soul as well as songs

that the audiences enjoy. I do all the arranging and

producing as well. Since we are a five-piece playing

songs that are heavily produced, like today’s current

hits to horn band funk/soul, I create tracks to

augment our sound. It’s not a crutch; we are all

really playing our instruments. Anyway, I create

all the tracks we use in my studio. I run a full media

studio. I do it all from top to bottom. Video, audio,

photo, web—you name it.

What is the key to keeping a band together?

That ’s easy to answer. Respect, kindness,

communication, common goals and above all

else, FUN! A fun and positive vibe is so important.

Having said all that, having awesome gigs at

beautiful venues is pretty dang important, too!

What is the bands most significant achievement

to date?

Collectively? Finding each other , building this show

and sticking together. Individually, opening for

nationals, lots of product endorsements, five-star

jet setting one night gigs overseas in A-list venues,

playing in national acts, placing songs on Disney

soundtrack. There are so many things. Each

musician in this band has much to boast about! Lots

of name dropping can ensue, but I see you are not

wearing your steel toed shoes. I will not drop the

names on you to protect your toes. Maybe next

time.

Every pro musician has experienced a “Gig from

Hell.” Describe yours.

OMG, that’s easy too. We played an outdoor event

one September, in Seattle. We got there early, as

the contract stated, but were unable to load in ’cause

the stage wasn’t assembled on time. It was raining

hard—those big giant raindrops with some wind.

This stage was on the grass... in the pouring rain.

There was nowhere to park. Unloading was a

nightmare. When we were finally able to start setting

up (I mean PA and all the stage gear), it was really

close to downbeat. We would have been able to

make downbeat, but the electricity the function

provided kept tripping and that was tearing up my

PA/gear. I think we wound up playing four songs.

The tear down was like—well, like those pictures I

see of Woodstock, only it was not as fun and in

fancy shoes and a pinstripe suit. I was winding a

snake that was covered in mud in a pinstripe suit.

What is the most overrated aspect of being a

professional entertainer?.

BEING YOUR OWN BOSS!

What is the most underrated aspect of being a

professional entertainer?

BEING YOUR OWN BOSS!

Is there a favorite performance venue where you

guys just set the house on fire?

YES, of course. All of them!!! We strive to put on a

fast-paced, entertaining and FUN show at each

venue we play. Even in the rain and mud, we tear it

up!!

If someone could look up SWAY in Webster’s

Dictionary, what would it say?

A band of multitalented, fun loving, regional

superstars playing hits from yesterday and today—

heavy on the R&B tip. We play songs from artists

such as Gap Band; Earth, Wind & Fire; Prince;

Jamie Foxx; Usher; Rihanna; and Lady Gaga.

Instruments: James Little: Vocals/Keys, Stephanie

Smith: Vocals/Guitar, Liz Aday: Vocals/Guitar/

Keys, E: Bass/Vocals, Pete Johnston:

Drums

Give us your performance schedule for the next

two months.

www.swaytothemusic.com

Q&A with Liz Aday

L to R: Stephanie Smith, E, James

Little, Pete Johnston, Liz Aday

ARTIST PROFILES

14 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • DECEMBER, 200912 BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • DECEMBER, 2009

PERFORMANCE CAREER

I’m playing (and still getting used to) a beautiful

new guitar, called a Grand Cabaret, built by John

Buscarino. It’s a seven-string, nylon string guitar

that is great for the Brazilian jazz that I’m playing

more of lately. I plan to start rehearsing a new trio

in 2010 that will feature more of this music.

RECORDING CAREER

I will be recording this new trio mid-2010.

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

One of the best things about playing music is the

great friendships we make. I am lucky to play with

a lot of great musicians who are not only some of

Seattle’s finest, but also great people that I look

forward to being on the gig with as well as hanging

out after the gig.

STATE OF THE BIZ

Well, the economy goes up and down, however, I

feel that the state of any industry is really what we

make of it. This year has been very good to me and

I’m looking forward to an even better 2010. There

is always work out there. Sometimes, we just have

to look a little harder.

GOOD THINGS

Made some great new fr iends—guitar ists

Romero Lubambo and Paul Meyers. Both are great

musical inspirations for me.

PERSONAL GROWTH?

Keep moving. If we sit still, we’re really going

backward.

DECEMBER PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

A Terrible Beauty

Brad Buck

Guitarist - Seattle, WA

NW JAZZ PROFILE

PERFORMANCE CAREER

I’m doing big shows at the Triple Door. Live

horns. Seven to ten pieces. I’m also beginning to

play more with D’vonne Lewis and Evan Flory-

Barnes (long overdue). Hopefully we can push out

a series of recordings. Davee C, Steve Salfati,

Thaddeus Turner & I are starting to do some

electronic music performances at the Electric Tea

Garden. We are looking for a colorful name for the

Irish Pub & Restaurant

201 Williams Ave. South

Renton, WA.

425-227-3396

Check www.bradbuck.net for details

Saturday December 12

Brian Kent / Brad Buck Duo

J Lewis Jewelry

Christmas Party

10575 NE 12th St

Bellevue, WA 98004-4362

(425) 455-2204

1:00-6:00pm

CONTACT

[email protected]

www.bradbuck.net

Darrius Willrich

Pianist – Seattle, WA

group. I am starting to appear in Australia. I will

return in Feb 2010. I am knocking on Japan’s door.

RECORDING CAREER

Beginning to record everything I do. I never really

showcase my piano chops on my albums. That is

going to change. I will do some solo, trio and

beyond work in 2010. Please look out for it.

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

Chok late has been kicking but t with her

nominations for Best Album 2009 and Best Female

Vocalist 2009 by www.soultracks.com. Donyea

Goodman is planning on showcasing himself more

as an artist. Patrick Mouton is doing good work in

the performance space arena. Thaddeus Turner just

released h is fir st solo album, enti tled

“Thaddilac.” Nice!

THE STATE OF THE BIZ

Lately, I’ve been thinking about releasing music via

my website’s blog. You’re just not going to make

a lo t of money se lling your music

independently. Your music is like a business card

for other opportunities like endorsements, film/TV

placements and live performances. So, I making

my live performances tight, working with Marketing

Strategist Thornell Jones, blogging more and

positioning myself to take advantage of the

opportunities my music brings me. The more

content out there, the better.

PERSONAL LIFE

I need some new stuff to happen in it.

FAMILY LIFE

My daughter has been lighting up my life. Watching

her learn, and teach me—it is astonishing how fast

it all happens.

PERSONAL GROWTH

I am learning how to observe my life more, instead

of reacting to it. I am also meditating Vipassana

more (www.dhamma.org) and soon I will be

revi ewing The Landmark Forum

(www.landmarkeducation.com).

DECEMBER PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

Dec 10, 14 , 21, 28: 6-10p—Solo Piano at

Waterfront Seafood Grill Pier 70.

Dec 11,12,18,19: 6-8pm—Solo Piano at Edgewater

Inn in The Lobby.

CONTACT

www.darriuswillrich.com

[email protected]


Brad Buck

Guitar

Jazz, Brazilian Jazz

www.bradbuck.net

[email protected]

Becki Sue & her Big

Rockin’ Daddies!

www.bigrockindaddies.com www.myspace.com/

bigrockindaddies http://www.facebook.com/

pages/Becki-Sue-her-Big-Rockin-Daddies/

117832487563

Brooks Giles III

B.F.A., M.F.A. - Saxophonist/Vocalist

Jazz, Funk, Blues, Latin, Rhythm, Blues

[email protected]

www.brooksgiles.com

Sandy Harvey

Rhythm Suite / Solo

Keyboardist / Vocalist

Jazz, Soul, Blues, Pop

sandyharvey.com

[email protected]

Butch Harrison

Trumpet, Keyboards

Jazz, R&B, Soul, Blues

www.myspace.com/butch.harrison

www.facebook.com/butchharrison

www.cdbaby.com/cd/butchharrison

[email protected]

HipBone

Jazz, Blues, R&B

myspace.com/hipbonestrio

Buck England - b3buck@gmail

Jho Blenis - [email protected]

Micharl Slivka - [email protected]

Tracey Hooker

Trumpet

Contemporary & Straight-ahead Jazz,

R&B

[email protected]

Kareem Kandi

Jazz Saxophone, Music Educator


[email protected]

D’Vonne Lewis

Jazz Drummer

www.dvonnelewis.com

www.facebook.com/people/DVonne-

Lewis/756392973

www.myspace.com/dvonne_lewis

[email protected],

Thomas Marriott

Jazz Trumpet

www.thomasmarriott.net

[email protected]>

View contact details

Mercedes Nicole

Mercedes Nicole Quartet

Jazz Vocalist


www.myspace.com/


206-235-0478

LJ Porter

Vocalist

R&B, Soul, Blues

www.ljporter.com

www.myspace.com/ljporter4u2

[email protected],

Paul Richardson

Keyboards

Wide variety of styles

http://www.paulrichardsonmusic.com

[email protected]

Danny Welsh

Tenor, Soprano Saxophones, & Flute.

Smooth Jazz, Jazz, Soul, R&B, Funk.

http://dannywelsh.com

http://myspace.com/dannywelshjazz

See me and be my friend on Facebook!

[email protected]

Rich Wetzel

Trumpet

Rich Wetzel’s Groovin Higher Orchestra

www.myspace.com/groovinhigher

www.facebook.com/richwetzel

http://twitter.com/richwetzel

www.richwetzel.com

INTERNET-LINKS

Here’s where to find hot musicians on the web


Sax, Clarinet, Flute, Piano

Kent, Washington

SEPTEMBER, 2009

I chose the saxophone because

my jazz band director refused to

let me play the clarinet in the jazz

band, so I had no choice.

Why is music such an important part of being

human?

Music is an opportunity for us to emote on a

subconscious level without needing to use words.

It can allow listeners to understand how we are

feeling at any given moment, or understand the

important aspects in our lives when we write music

to define our innermost thought.

Which internationally respected artists have

you worked with?

Ronnie Laws, The Rippingtons, Grover

Washington Junior, Kenny G, Tom Scott, Steve

Oliver, Marcus Johnson, Jeff Kashiwa, Ce Ce

Penniston, Deniece Williams, and Ernestine

Anderson.

What’s unique about your latest recording?

I’d say that the most unique aspect of the recording

is the live sound to it. Dwight Goodman did a lot

of writing with me on this recording and he

influenced the direction of the recording in a big

way. He played keyboards and arranged many of

the songs. The most unique aspect of the recording

is that it is one of the freshest sounding smooth

jazz records in the nation at this time. John

Raymond, guitarist with Kenny G, mixed the

record. He has always been an impeccable audio

engineer and guitarist, but he really stepped up to

the plate on the current CD. He played a lot of

guitar, and also mastered the record.

Which songs are getting the most airplay at

this time?

“Love You Just So Much” and “Double Cache`”

When is your next project going to be released?

I’m almost finished with it now, although “almost”

could be three months or six months. The older

we become, the more our time becomes valuable

and the people that I work with become busier as

they become more successful. Additionally,

writing songs sometimes takes minutes to

accomplish, and sometimes melodies simmer

inside of us, waiting to mature before they are

recorded.

You are also a music educator. Explain the

concept of tension and release and how it

applies to jazz.

Any good song should tell a story. Jazz especially

allows musicians the opportunity to tell a current

story and build the story through dynamics,

phrasing, great tone, and building motifs. A great

solo builds from beginning to end and the audience

should feel exhilarated when a solo is finished.

It’s very similar to love making: every time is

different and should be a journey, and a reflection

of how one feels at a specific time in his or her

life. It is another way that humans can

communicate on a higher level.

Do you feel it’s your obligation to escort a star

student into the professional arena by showing

him, or her, the ropes?

Of course, this is our job as musicians. We want

to have quality music at “our” funerals as we pass

the torch to our students. I would say, in general,

that most jazz musicians are happy to pass on the

tradition of jazz because it is an art form that is

better “caught than taught.” Jazz education has

come a long way since I was a boy in school. Our

education at that time was to listen to records. I

think that a lot of students now read books, study

scales, work on technique, yet fall short when it

comes to connecting with an audience. I host jam

sessions for adults so that they can hone their

musical skills. Additionally, I can work on my

skills as a musician and educator. I learn many

things about my playing from my students, and

sometimes they teach me little tricks, mostly about

style and how to inflect notes. Most of the

musicians who attend our jams are highly skilled

though. In most cases, they are professional

musicians who keep the music exciting and fresh.

Josephine Howell, Butch Harrison, Geoffrey

Castle, Dominique…..just a small sample of

musicians who are professionals who come to our

jam session every Sunday night at the Muckleshoot

Casino in Auburn.

Is there ever a time when a teacher should tell

a seemingly hopeless or lazy student that he or

she should choose another path?

NEVER! I hope that I am clear. NEVER! I think

that we lose sight of what music is. It’s a chance

for us to experience another form of

communication. Is the main reason to be a

musician an opportunity to tell others that you are

better than them? NO! Music should be

performed because it is FUN! I play to have fun

and to relax and to meditate. When I perform I

get lost in space and time. When I was in the 6

th

grade, I was last chair clarinet. I was terrible!

When I was in college I was the least technically

skilled saxophonist in school, but I continued to

practice, to listen, and to try to become the best

that I could be. For example, if John Coltrane

came to our jam session and played a solo that

made angels cry, and then I played a solo that was

“my best,” well, we both would have succeeded.

The intent of music is to perform “your best” at

any given time and compare your solos to your

ability. Always strive for excellence. The day

you don’t care about your performance is the day

that you lose. As far as the lazy or hopeless

student? Their course will be determined by their

abilities and their determination. I can only

encourage students with “how to practice.” Their

job is to take my ideas and work them into their

routine. A lazy and hopeless musician will

probably not be a working musician. A musician

without a lot of “natural ability” is the real

challenge. How does one help that musician

achieve their goals? It all comes down to practice.

Excellence comes from 99% perspiration and 1%

inspiration.

FAMILY LIFE

What attracted you to the love of your life?

I was attracted to Anita because she was absolutely

beautiful. Then, when I got to know her, I came

to realize that she had a mission to raise our

children and allow them to become confident in

themselves. She is an amazing homemaker,

interior designer, and a fantastic mother and best

friend. After 13 years of marriage, she is even

more beautiful inside and out.

Tell us about your children.

I have three lovely children, Michele, 19,

Christina, 17, and Spencer, 10. They are great

people, great children, and excellent life-long

friends of mine.

What are the keys to balancing the different

facets of your professional life with your family

life?

This is probably the number one challenge in my

life, as I am a professional musician and work

three to five nights a week, and I am an educator

and work five days a week. I am the financial

provider for my family and my wife is the glue

that holds our family together. I would have to

say that balancing my professional life with my

family life is really difficult. I am passionate about

both, and there are times when I see my children

for minutes a day; that is very hard on me

NW JAZZ PROFILE

PROFILES FROM 2009

A LOOK BACK

Darren Motamedy

BIG FUN ENTERTAINMENT, ARTS & LEISURE GUIDE • SEPTEMBER, 2009 21

emotionally. This is why I am so proud of my

wife for choosing to be a stay at home mother.

She keeps my children centered.

How often are you able to take family

vacations?

We take a cruise almost every year, although

recently we have been going to Las Vegas for mini

family tours.

Would you ever encourage one of your

youngsters to enter the music business?

I would encourage my children to become

musicians, although I would highly encourage

them to additionally study something to fall back

on. I am a musician and also a music educator. I

have been able to teach music in the Kent School

District to supplement my performances. I think

I am really lucky because I love to play and I love

teaching music and band to my students.

What is your favorite family activity?

My favorite family activity is doing home

improvements with my wife. I would play video

games with my son, except I find that he destroys

me within 30 seconds of our play together and I

end up watching him until his turn is over 15

minutes later. I do love going to movies with my

son, having sleepovers, and watching our favorite

movie together, Napoleon Dynamite .

Other than choosing a career in music; what

is the most adventurous or dangerous thing you

have ever done?

I did two cross country hikes in the Olympic

Mountain Range with my best friend. We didn’t

see people for a week, and I must admit that each

step on the mountain is one that must be perfect.

One misstep, and you would fall and bounce

thousands of feet down the mountain. I was in a

constant state of vigilance while hiking and

camping in that situation.

What do you want people to remember about

you and your music?

I would like people to remember that I am a nice

man who plays music.

Discography: 1989-Mottoretti/First Generation,

1992-Mottoretti/Square One, 1995-Peace/Darren

Motamedy Christmas Album, 1995-Dangerously

Close, 1999-It’s All Good, 2002-Relax Your

Mind, 2005-Darren Motamedy: The Best of

Smooth Jazz, 2007-Don’t Cha Know, 2009 or

2010 (New record to be release)

Check out www.darrenmotamedy.com for

Darren’s performance schedule.

Thomas Marriott

Trumpet & Flugelhorn – Seattle, WA

SEPTEMBER, 2009

Tell us about your academic background.

I don’t have much of one. I went to Garfield High

School and the University of Washington for a

while.

Which internationally respected jazz artists

have you worked with?

When I moved to New York, I was on Maynard

Ferguson’s band. After that, I worked very briefly

with the Tito Puente Orchestra just after Tito

passed away. That band had a lot of great

musicians in it at the time. I worked with

Rosemary Clooney for a bit after that. I did a couple

of gigs with Eddie Palmieri and subbed a few times

with The Chico O’Farrill Orchestra. I played in

Joe Locke’s “Wire Walker” band and I am also

featured on his newest album. I have worked gigs

with Richie “Alto Madness” Cole, Eric Reed,

Bryan Lynch, Bobby Shew, Pete Christlieb, Kenny

Kirkland, Gary Smulyan, Dennis Irwin, Dafnis

Prieto, The Les Brown Band, and lots of others. I

have played in bands that have backed-up Jimmy

Heath, James Moody, Maria Schneider, Celia

Cruz, Gerald Wilson, Natalie Cole, Dianne

Schuur, Ernestine Anderson, Manhattan Transfer,

and some others. Lately, I have had the pleasure

of working quite a bit with Hadley Caliman.

Tell us about your latest recording. Who

produced it? Where was it recorded? Who’s

on it? What’s unique about it? Include release

date and label.

My newest recording is entitled “Flexicon.” It

came out last April on Origin Records and spent

almost 14 weeks on the national jazz chart, making

it into the top ten. I recorded it at Robert Lang

studios in March of 2008. It’s a self-produced

album that features Jeff Johnson (bass), Bill

Anschell (piano & Rhodes), Matt Jorgensen

(drums), Mark Taylor (saxophone), and Joe Locke

(vibes).

What were some of the obstacles you had to

overcome to make the project a reality?

The financial obstacles are always the most

prevalent in any recording project because you

have to pay the musicians, the studio, etc. Also,

the night before we went into the studio to record

“Flexicon,” my daughter, who was six months old

at the time, kept me up literally all night. It was a

rough session!

Where do you start when you’re composing

original music? Do you start with the melody,

the harmonic structure, the rhythm or a motif?

Sometimes, I start with the melody and try to figure

out the form and find chords that fit the melody,

and sometimes, I start with a progression and go

from there. Other times, I will think of the type of

tune I need to write—something fast, something

with even eighths, something modal, something

dramatic—and see what comes to mind. I think

to myself, “If I were going to write this certain

type of tune, what would it sound like?” Then, I

write down some ideas and see which ones fit

together and work it out from there.

Do you ever get composer’s block? If so, how

do you find inspiration?

I am a pretty novice composer, so I get writer’s

“My life without music would be, in

some ways, far simpler and easier.

But as Kurt Vonnegut says, “Being

an artist is a crummy way to make

a living, but it’s the only way to live

as a human being.”

block all the time. I usually just put on some

records I like and ask myself, “What is it about

this that I like?” Then, I try to steal that thing!

Are you involved in jazz education? If so, what

are the most unique aspects of your teaching

method?

I am not involved in Jazz Education.

Jazz represents only two percent of all music

sold. Can jazz grow a new fan base?

I think jazz can grow a new fan base by doing

what jazz musicians have always done, which is

to play compelling music and to reinterpret the

popular music of the day. I think there are also

some really amazing musicians that are weak

performers, and I think that that is something we

need to think about if we are going to gain new

fans.

In what other countries have you performed?

What was the occasion?

I have performed in Germany, France, Spain, The

Netherlands, Italy, Luxemburg, Canada & Mexico.

Mostly at festivals with various bands I have been

on, but with my own bands a little too.

Other than your new recording, what good

things have been happening for you during the

last several months?

I am lucky enough to be working on a second

album with Hadley Caliman which is due out this

fall. I have been busier and busier out of town,

playing with my own band as well, which has

really been a blessing. I have been really having

fun playing with the Washington Composer’s

Orchestra lately too; there are lots of great players

in the band and interesting music. It’s also a

challenge because the music is very difficult for

me.

What does success mean to you?

Professional success would be working all the time

just playing music that I was personally invested

in.

Thomas may be contacted at:


www.thomasmarriott.net

Steve Kim

Bassist, Educator - Seattle WA

SEPTEMBER, 2009

Steve Kim is an accomplished bassist, composer

and educator. He currently appears in a duo with

guitarist Don Mock playing original music and

jazz repertoire. He has also performed with Larry

Coryell, Alphonse Mouzon, Carter

Jefferson, Dave Valentine, Jay Thomas, Scott

Cossu, and Brian Nova.

He has been commissioned to compose for the

Southern Arts Counci l, the Seattle Arts

Commission, choreographers Bill Evans, Clay

Talefero and Jeff Bickford, and northwest

filmmaker Eric Patton. In 1987 Steve served as a

cultural ambassador representing the City of

Seattle in Japan, and in 1989 was honored as a

Centennial Artist during the Washington State

Centennial Celebration. In 2007 he returned to

Japan, touring with guitarist Brian Nova &

Vibraphonist Kiyoko Ami. He has studied bass

with Ray Brown, Gary Peacock and composition

and improvisation with Charlie Banacos.

Steve Kim is faculty in the music department at

Shoreline Community College, and is an adjunct

to South Seattle Community College. In addition,

he has taught at Pacific Lutheran University, The

National Guitar Workshop, The Experience Music

Project and the Roberts Music Institute.

His second solo recording, entitled The Book Of

Changes, was released in the fall of 2005.

Currently Steve is composing music for a recording

due in late Fall 2009.

Steve Kim

www.kimpossibilities.net

[email protected]

(206) 767-9090

NW JAZZ PROFILE

PROFILES FROM 2009

A LOOK

BACK

Fon Morcus

European Drum Soloist Auditions for

America’s Got Talent

SEPTEMBER, 2009

David Keys: Fon, I was blown away when I

saw your video on YouTube. Your drum solo

work is really impressive. You sound like Buddy

Rich and Louie Bellson rolled into one with

your own personal touch on top.

Fon Morcus: Thanks for saying that David.

DK: Tell me about your experience auditioning

for America’s Got Talent. Did you make it on

the show?

FM: Well, I screwed up. I got there at 7:45 am and

my audition was at 4:50 pm, so I had to wait for

nine hours to see the judges. They asked me all

kinds of questions: “How old are you? What do

you do for a living? What country are you from?

What instruments do you play? Why do you think

you can win? And what would you do if you won?”

Then they looked at my video on their laptop and

asked me if I would be willing to do my solo on

the show. And here is where I screwed up; I asked

them if I could save the solo for the last show.

That was the wrong thing to say. You don’t ask

them questions. They’re tired because they have

to judge everything, whether it’s good or bad, and

all they want to do is go home. So, they asked me

to wait outside for about five minutes and then a

person came out and explained to me that when I

asked to do the solo for the last show, I was actually

refusing to do what the judges wanted me to do in

order to be on the show. So, he told me I couldn’t

be on the show this year and said maybe next

season.

DK: You have great speed and technique in

your playing and I think if you got on the show,

you would impress the judges and the viewers.

Are you going to try again next year?

FM: I think I will try again next year and, if I win,

I’ll donate the money to animal shelters. I love all

kinds of animals. I would also donate a lot of my

time to teaching young kids to play music.

DK: When I saw your show last November in

Olympia, you were the only one who got a

standing ovation. There were many talented

people on stage that evening, but for me, you

were the main event. Are you planning to do a

new show in the near future?

FM: I might be able to do something in late

November at the Washington Center for the

Performing Arts in Olympia. Organizing 60

performers who are dancing, singing and playing

takes a lot of rehearsal and I need time to blend

all those elements into a smooth, professional

presentation.

DK: Will you be ending the show with another

special solo like you did last year?

FM: Yes. I’ll be soloing with 2001: A Space

Odyssey.

DK: I can’t wait to see and hear it. Make sure

you let us know the date and time for the show.

You can see and rate Fon’s drum solos on

YouTube. Make sure to add your comments. He

may be reached at 360-701-2235. Write to him at

1030 N.E. Hensley Street, Olympia, Washington,

98516.

Kareem Kandi

Saxophone, Educator

SEPTEMBER, 2009

A native of the Pacific Northwest, saxophonist

Kareem Kandi is a performer, composer, and

educator, who is in high demand for his talents

both on and off the stage.

Growing up in the northwest with its vibrant music

scene allowed Kandi the opportunity to study with,

listen to and perform with world class jazz artists

residing in the area. Artists such as Tracy Knoop,

Jay Thomas, Don Lanphere, Bill Ramsay, Hadley

Caliman, Julian Priester and many others had a

large impact on Kareem early on in his musical

education. This direction and guidance continues

to inspire and lead Kandi as he continues his life-

long passion—undertaking a career as a

professional musician.

Today, as a performing artist he spends most of

his time leading his group, The Kareem Kandi

Band, for which he composes and arranges most

of the music. The band is constantly on the move

as a sought after performing group and spends

most of its time performing in and around the

greater Tacoma/Seattle/Olympia area. When not

leading his own group, he can be seen and heard

performing as a sideman with many other top

notch musical acts and projects.

As an educator, Kareem divides his time teaching

jazz improvisation as an artist in residence at The

Tacoma School of the Arts—directing the award

winning student big band at Pierce College,

conducting master-classes and workshops at

schools around the Puget Sound area—and

maintaining a full load of private students.

For information on private instruction or booking

the band for a performance, please contact:

[email protected]

More information on The Kareem Kandi Band

and their calendar of events, visit:


Emmanuel

del Casal

Bassist, Educator

SEPTEMBER, 2009

Jazz and funk bassist, Emmanuel del Casal, has

been a performing and recording artist for over

20 years. Working with notable artists such as

Grammy Award-winning Daniel Lanois and

Charles Nev ille of the Nevill e Brothers,

Emmanuel’s musicianship has granted him

extensive musical experiences and taken him

many places around the world, from Asia to

London.

Emmanuel’s versatile groups capture the classic

and traditional idioms of jazz as we ll as

contemporary modern jazz.

For critical listening in a concert setting, or

creating the perfect ambient mood for a classy

cocktail mixer, Emmanuel del Casal and his jazz

groups bring everything right in the groove.

Elevate your special event with Emmanuel del

Casal.

His jazz ensembles can be enjoyed every

weekend at The Georgian in The Fairmont

Olympic Hotel.

Jazz duo featuring Emmanuel and guitarist Dan

Sales: Fridays 6pm-10pm and Saturdays 6pm-

8pm.

Jazz quartet featuring Andre Thomas on drums

and Dan Sales with guest vocalists Stephanie

Porter, Makini Magee, and Keely Whitney:

Saturdays 8pm-10:30pm.

For bookings and information:

Phone: 866-771-2500

Email: [email protected]

Web: www.smoothgroove.net and

www.myspace.com/emmanueldelcasal

Jazz is more than just notes in time, it’s also

very stimulating and thought provoking. When

I allow myself to be completely absorbed in the

music, whether performing or enjoying fellow

artists, I am able to invoke whatever emotion is

needed at the time

How long has the Cole’lition been together?

Since 1994

Are there any new members in the band?

Yes, if you visit our website you will see the

caption “a whole new thang.” What that means

is that around August 30

th

, 2009, you will see a

whole new website representing the new

Cole’lition; it is, I think, the “the right mix” of

young exciting musicians and seasoned mature

musicians. We now have Chris Fuller on

keyboards, Ivan Payne on drums, and Howard

Molstrom on sax. This new band has a feel and

sound all its own and I’m very excited about

sharing our gifts.

Tell us about your new recording.

We are currently in production now. Before we

move on I just want to give honor to a fallen friend,

producer and sound engineer. Tom Phafel helped

produce and engineer our last project and was

scheduled to work on this on but was tragically

taken from us and we will miss him.

To answer your question, we are working with a

number of producers including members of Tri-

Quad productions, Chris Fuller and Michael Cole,

Jr. They have a song on Day 26’s new project

(Diddy’s new group). My friend Grady Wilkins

of the Whispers will be helping if things work out

and John Raymond will be doing some mixing as

well.

This project will be released in two phases, first a

pre-release marketing CD (4 tracks) early fall 2009

and the full project later in early 2010. It’s going

to be hot and different from anything we have done

in the past. It’s titled “The Right Mix.”

Do you have any release parties scheduled?

We are hoping to do a pre-release party in the

early fall 2009. Believe me, the word will

definitely be out and we plan to do quite a bit of

marketing in most all media.

How are you planning to market the project?

Well, definitely the internet, some print, live

performances and an important element that some

of us don’t realize is a must, and that’s why we

will be working with a record promoter to get that

precious air play on terrestrial, satellite and

internet radio. Our last CD got some good airplay

in Europe so we plan to market there also.

Will the group be touring to support the

release?

We definitely plan to tour and we have already

started laying the ground work for that. We plan

Cole’lition

Contemporary Jazz

SEPTEMBER, 2009

to tour locally, regionally, nationally and hopefully

internationally as well.

What were some of the obstacles you had to

overcome to make the project a reality?

Well, without a major label behind us financing,

is a challenge but we are making it. As I mentioned

earlier, we were slated to do the major live

recording at the Tank Studios but we have to find

the right room to complete live tracking. I think

we are pretty much on schedule though.

What good things have been happening for the

band during the last year?

David, I am so excited about just creating good

music. The new members have been fabulous,

performing in town. We have a major industry

contact we a working with now and that is

wonderful. Cole’lition will have a new look, feel

and sound without compromising our foundation.

I think just loving what we do and being able to

continue to share our gift is wonderful.

What is the key to Cole’lition’s staying power?

Why is the band so popular?

Perseverance and just being blessed. As far as

being popular, I can’t answer that, but we are

sincere and we bring it from the heart. We are on

a mission to make people feel good and positive

about their experience with Cole’lition.

Discography:

On The Move, Seventh Power, and The Right Mix

is in production.

www.colelition.com

The Collective

R&B, Contemporary Jazz

SEPTEMBER, 2009

The Collective, formerly The Jazz Collective,

is based on a collaboration that actually started

in 1974 when Randy Wallace and W. Michael

Jaap first played music together. In a recent

interview, Randy stated “Mike Jaap has been a

musical mentor and close friend for 35 years.”

In 1993, The Jazz Collective was formed with

W. Michael Jaap on keys, Kurt Kolstad on

drums, and Randy Wallace on guitar. Since then,

the group has played venues throughout the

Northwest with great success.

The decision to change the name of the group

after all these years is based on the fact that the

group is able to play many styles of music—

not only Jazz, give clients exactly what they are

looking for, and essentially customize the event

for them.

The Collective is able to draw on a “collective”

of musicians, singers, horn players of all styles

and perform in any configuration from a duo to

an eight-piece horn band with a female or male

lead vocalist.

Randy Wallace states, “I believe the key to our

success is and always has been cl ient

satisfaction.”

One of The Collective’s recent projects has been

recording a CD for Ron Bates, who is an

Olympia based entertainer, well known for his

Supper with Sinatra Dinner Shows. The CD was

produced by W. Michael Jaap and features Kurt

Kolstad on drums and Randy Wallace on guitar.

There are also guest appearances on the CD by

Steve Sarandos, a good friend and NW sax

player, as well as Jeff Mason on harmonica and

trombone. Ron Bates is donating a percentage

of the proceeds of his CD to our beloved friend

and brother, Kurt Kolstad, who has been

suffering with cancer. In Kurt’s absence, we

have been blessed to have Garey Williams with

us on drums.

We also recently did a collaboration with

Michael Prendergast, an LA based singer by way

of Missoula , Montana. Michael wi ll be

appearing with The Collective on October 2nd

at Baker Street Books in Black Diamond,

Washington. Also appearing will be Sidney

Wallace (Randy’s wife) who is the former lead

vocalist for Apricot Brandy.

The Collective’s focus is to provide clients with

exactly what they envision their event to be,

whether it is jazz, rock, or dance, and to be able

to do i t by ut ili zing a col lective of the

Northwest’s finest musicians.

NW JAZZ PROFILE

PROFILES FROM 2009

A LOOK

BACK

Brooks Giles

Saxophone, Vocals Seattle, WA

OCTOBER, 2009

Of course, being able to pass along the joy of music

to others through formal and informal educational

opportunities is of great importance and I cherish

those interactions greatly.

How long have you been living in the Seattle

area? Where were you living before you moved

here?

Actually, I haven’t officially moved to Seattle. I’ve

lived in Brooklyn, New York for the past twenty

years. However, many of those years have been

spent abroad touring with my own ensembles and

groups led by the late, great bassist/vocalist, Eldee

Young and others. I’ve been fortunate, in the past

year, to have spent the majority of my time in the

Seattle area which I have definitely fallen in love

with! Seattle, like New York, gives me the chance

to indulge in a number of my “non-musical

passions,” such as, enjoying great seafood, rooting

for high quality sports teams and spending a great

deal of time meditating around large bodies of

water.

Are you planning on staying here?

After enjoying the hospitality and graciousness of

the wonderful people I’ve connected with over

the past year, I can’t imagine not having Seattle

as a major part of my life. Ideally, I would like to

continue my bicoastal lifestyle, but ultimately, the

decision regarding my full time residency in

Seattle will depend on the performance and

educational opportunities that come my way.

Which internationally respected recording

artists have you worked with?

Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working

with some outstanding musicians and entertainers

including Donald Byrd, Charli Persip, The

Drifters, Capathia Jenkins, Mildred Jones, Hui

Cox, Ron Affif, Brad Mehldau and Eldee Young

to name a few.

What’s new with your performance career?

Well, I’m really excited about the groups I’ve

assembled here in Seattle over the past year. The

four piece band includes some brilliant, sensitive

and versatile musicians. Because these musicians

are in such high demand, I’m in the habit of

shifting the guitar and bass chairs at times.

Working with Vineet John Davidson on guitar,

Brian Kirk on drums, along with Douglas Barnett,

Osama Afifi, and Doug Miller on bass has been a

wonderful experience. My good friend, New York

guitarist and producer Hui Cox, works with us

also when he’s in town. By the way, Brian Kirk

and I performed on numerous gigs in New York

and taught for the New York Department of

Education while getting our graduate degrees back

in the early 1990’s. It’s been really special to be

able to perform regularly with him after so many

years. I’ve also assembled a trio for more intimate

gigs.

What’s new with your recording career? Tell

us about your new/latest recording. Who



date and label. Are any songs getting airplay?

Where can it be purchased?

My latest recording is entitled, “Romance De Los

Andes;” it was recorded last year in Santiago Chile

with The Pancho Aranda Trio; Pancho is an

outstanding and very well known pianist from

Chile. I had the good fortune of being the featured

artist with his group in Santiago for four months.

His son Pancho, Jr. is a really fine bassist, and the

drummer, Sergio Gonzalez, is a fiery young talent.

Like my first recording, “Somewhere on Earth”

(recorded in Bangkok, Thailand a few years ago),

the upcoming CD is self-produced; I’m hoping to

have it released in the next month. It will be

available at all live shows, CDBaby.com, and on

my website, www.brooksgiles.com. My latest CD

features mostly songs associated with the “Great

American Songbook.” The theme, of course, is

Romantic Love. This was my first journey to South

America and the energy there was very warm and

very loving. My hotel room faced The Andes and,

after watching people interact over the months,

the overall theme for the CD seemed obvious.

What’s new with your family life?

Well, I’ve never been married nor do I have any

children. Over the years, I tended to put music

and career first, either consciously or sub-

consciously. In any case, my desire to perform and

travel regularly far outweighed my desire for

family life. I know my parents would have

preferred having a daughter-in-law and

grandchildren but they understand that traveling

extensively while supporting a family—

emotionally and financially—wasn’t going to fit

into my overall plans for a life in music. Believe

me. I have a great deal of respect for musicians

who are able to “have it all.”

What’s new with your quest for personal

growth?

My personal growth revolves around my

spirituality and my desire for peace and joy for all

people. I constantly work towards being the best

person I can possibly be in this life. Studying world

history, theosophy, theology and the teachings of

Krishnamurti, The Buddha and other enlightened

teachers, help me focus on all aspects of this

existence while practicing Loving-Kindness.


you and your music?

First and foremost, I hope that people remember

“I live for the creative process—

whether I am on the bandstand

with various musicians or at home

alone composing music. I also

thrive on getting the audience to

enjoy the show and leave at the

end of a performance feeling

better than they did when they

arrived.”

having a great time at the show listening to various

types of music and feeling that they were

thoroughly entertained. Also, I would hope that

they remember witnessing musicians who truly

enjoy making music and sharing their passion and

positive energy with them.

Website: _www.brooksgiles.com

Email : [email protected]

“I live for loving and being loved in return.”

PERFORMANCE CAREER

It’s varied and interesting, and BUSY! More

concerts, a few dances, and I’m playing guitar on

more occasions, mostly swing and bossa nova.

Besides my solo voice/guitar and duo voice/piano

gigs, and along with historical shows of 30’s and

40’s music, I’m in a dance band/septet called

“Swingin’ in the Rain,” a girl swing/jazz trio called

“Fedora,” a ballroom dance quartet called

“Chassez,” and a folk-bop duo with guitar/voice/

trumpet called “The Willikers” that plays

everything from Brazilian choros and French

musettes to Monk. It’s all fun!

RECORDING

I just completed recording a collection of my most

favorite singing games and dances for kids. We

had an absolute ball making this CD! It was unlike

anything I had ever done previously; it was self-

produced for posterity and a true labor of love. It

was recorded at Hans Brehmer’s studio with the

Canote Brothers (guitar and violin), and I am

presently working on the accompanying manual

that is geared toward teachers. Contact me to get

a copy, and the scheduled release date is mid-

December under Joyswing Records.

I have also been recording The Rain Project , a

collection of songs with the word “rain” in the

title, with voice and piano. Hans Brehmer is the

pianist and I am the singer; it is a very minimalist,

esoteric approach to many familiar standards and

lullabies. We began recording last winter and had

it three-quarters finished, but then took a hiatus

when the sun came out. We will resume when the

rains begin again and, in earnest, I am looking

forward to it.

FAMILY LIFE

My husband is an old time fiddler and works for

the stagehands’ union, and our eighteen-year-old

daughter is a high school senior and a circus

acrobat. She currently trains and teaches at

SANCA in Georgetown and Seattle, and will

audition in February for L’Ecole du Cirque du

Nationale in Montreal.

PERSONAL GROWTH

Yoga classes and playing as much bossa nova and

samba as time will allow. I am headed to Rio in

November to soak up the music, connect with

musicians there, continue to improve my

Portuguese, and get deeper into the Brazilian

guitar styles.

REMEMBER THIS

That my passion for music and dance is/was

infectious!

www.dinablade.com


Dina Blade

Vocalist, Guitarist, Dancer

OCTOBER, 2009

Sandy Harvey

Keyboards, Vocals

OCTOBER, 2009

Jazz is more than just…a style of music; it’s

also…a means of traveling uncharted paths and

reaching past the ordinary or the expected.

I chose the keyboards because, first of all, I grew

up in a home with a piano and organ in the living

room and with older siblings that played them very

well. Also, keyboard instruments provide for the

bass line, chord structure and melody all in one.

Which nationally famous entertainers have you

worked with?

Stevie Wonder, Tower of Power’s Greg Adams

and Mic Gillette, Isaac Hayes, blues singer Benny

Latimore, BB King, The Temptations, The

Platters, and more.

Tell us about your most recent recording. Who



date and label.

My most recent recording was done in my home

studio and produced by me. I laid down all the

basic tracks including drum programming and had

Alexey Nikolaev provide Sax solos. Andre

Montague, Kyle McKinney and I did vocals.

What’s unique about this recording so far is that

it comes from my mind, heart and soul. As artists,

we are all unique individuals with our own unique

approaches to music. Therefore, all artists’ music

is, in it’s own way, unique.

If jazz never existed, what else would never have

existed?

If jazz never existed, a true American art form

would not exist. Jazz was born right here in this

country.

What good things have been happening for you

lately?

I’m performing regularly. Some venues that I have

not previously been exposed to are providing an

opportunity for me to meet new musicians and

also reconnect with some fine players that I haven’t

worked with for quite some time.

What musical walls are you still struggling to

climb over?

This is not really a struggle, but sometimes when

I’m at home playing my grand piano, a different

spirit or mindset sets in and. when I finish, I go,

“Wow, that was awesome.” It’s almost like an out

of body experience. Not to say I don’t perform

well in front of an audience, but I’d like to capture

that same at-home experience at every

performance all the time. Regardless of the

compliments you receive, you always know when

you are good or absolutely on fire by your own

standards.

If someone could look up Sandy Harvey in

Webster’s Dictionary, what would you like it

to say?

I’d like it to say, “World-renowned multi-

millionaire musician.” What the heck? You asked.

Other than performing on stage, what else do

you do to keep the home fires burning?

I like to set fire to people’s homes. Ok, sorry. I

enjoy practicing on the piano and working around

the yard. I enjoy doing various remodeling and

upgrade projects around the house. Anything to

do with designing and building always strikes my

interest. I like figuring out what makes things work

and keeping them working properly, except cars.

What are the keys to balancing the different

facets of your professional life and your family

life?

For me, the balance is built in. I don’t perform or

work or do anything 24 hours a day. I’m at the gig

for a few hours, I work a few hours, and I’m doing

family for a few hours. There’s your balance.

Do you have a favorite performance venue?

Why?

My favorite performance venue is Seattle’s Jazz

Alley. This place is all about the music. The emcee

even asks, during his introduction of the artists,

that the audience keeps conversations quiet and

to a minimum for the benefit of the artists and the

listeners.

Every pro musician has experienced a “Gig

from Hell.” Describe yours.

Well, one of these would be back in the late

seventies when our brilliant agent booked our all-

black funk/soul band at an uppity yacht club in

Bellingham for a New Year’s Eve party. The age

group for this event was 65 and older (mostly

older). The only reason we didn’t need a chicken

wire fence in front of the stage is because they

couldn’t throw anything that far.

What good would you do for your community

if you had Bill Gates’ money?

I’d set up a free music workshop for young people

to learn all aspects of music industry from learning

how to play and perform to recording, new music

technology, vocal training and the business side

of music.

Is there a difference between joy and

happiness?

“Joy” is all the things that make you smile and

feel good inside. “Happiness” is sustained joy.

Do all the things that bring you joy and you will

be happy.

Website: sandyharvey.com


NW JAZZ PROFILE

PROFILES FROM 2009

A LOOK

BACK

Rich Wetzel

Trumpet, Flugelhorn

OCTOBER, 2009

PERFORMANCE CAREER

The band is evolving to include a wider spectrum

or show, pretty eclectic and high energy, from

Maynard Ferguson to Dean Martin to James

Brown. We recently added Mitch Reems, a great

vocalist whose delivery and stage presence has

helped make this wider and new show even more

exciting. We are really not limiting ourselves to

playing only jazz or only jazz venues. We recently

played and won over the crowd and other artists

and organizers at The Seattle Hempfest; we did a

wide variety to include some heavy funk, R&B,

and a jazz-rock mix for a very unique experience.

Not wanting to limit ourselves to a single genre I

may even rename the group from Rich Wetzel’s

Groovin Higher Jazz Orchestra, to Groovin Higher

Orchestra. We are adding more funk, rock, R&B

and jazz-rock and still our core high-energy

Maynard, Mangione, for a very hip mix and a new

show that would fit any type of festival and even

take in clubs with some of the great horn rock

band tunes we have added. We did this just the

other day at The Puyallup Fair and the crowd

absolutely loved it! This is the new direction of

the band. The Brass Herald , a popular

internationally distributed magazine in England,

will have a big feature interview with me in their

October issue after lots of airplay in Europe.

RECORDING

We have three CD’s out, the latest was recorded

about two years ago, titled The Mayn Thing , which

is a tribute to Maynard Ferguson and has been

played all over the world. We have had quite

extensive air play on jazz radio stations all over

the US, Canada, Japan, Europe and beyond. We

recorded it at Pacific Studios in Tacoma. Those

guys were absolutely phenomenal and truly

captured the sound I wanted. It can be purchased

at iTunes or CDBaby and can be ordered at most

music stores.

FAMILY LIFE

My wife, Starr, is doing lots of community

volunteer work as the volunteer coordinator for

the Tacoma Police Department and other great

neighborhood groups. We have a couple huge

McCaw parrots: a blue and gold named Maynard,

for Maynard Ferguson, and a scarlet named Arturo

for Arturo Sandoval.

PERSONAL GROWTH

After playing a show with Arturo Sandoval in June,

I’ve been getting that huge sound of his in my

head, just working on opening up my own sound,

“I live for the joy music can bring to

people’s lives—the way it can

compliment any situation, emotion, and

make all our events and gatherings more

enjoyable—whether it’s with family, at a

game, a concert, or a club. And for the

time we spend with our friends and family

as we experience life.”

trying a slightly bigger mouthpiece and working

on a few things; it’s really turning out to be fun

and I like where it is going.

REMEMBER THIS

Remember that we had fun, that we did it on a

grand scale, and that it was high energy and great

stuff.

PERFORMANCE SCHEDULE

We are just finishing a huge string of really great

gigs all summer long, and now we’re going to

concentrate on our Stan Kenton Big Band

Christmas with Rich Wetzel’s Expanded GHO,

where it will be a thirty piece jazz orchestra. This

will be held at Tacoma Community College on

Dec 4

th

and 5

th

. Details will be on our website

soon.

Music Contractor and Northwest Rep for Conn-

Selmer Inc musical instruments, and Bach Artist

and Clinician

Website: www.richwetzel.com and

www.myspace.com/groovinhigher Email

address: [email protected]

I chose the play percussion because... I played

the flute for awhile, but was influenced more by

the Conga drum at an early age, due to my fathers

Cuban music. I put down the flute and picked up

the drum…

Why is music such an important part of being

human?

“My life without music would be boring

and unexciting. Through music, I have

been blessed to have been able to

travel the world and perform with some

of the greatest names in show

business.”

Johnny Conga

Congas, Timbales, Bongos,

Vibes,Toys

Teacher, Educator Seattle, WA

NOVEMBER, 2009

Music affects us physically, emotionally and

spiritually. I believe that, through music, we allow

ourselves to be ourselves in a variety of ways—

when we listen to it, dance to it, and play to it.

Which styles of music are you most comfortable

playing?

Most styles; Latin Jazz, Salsa, Rumba, R&B, Jazz,

etc.

Which internationally respected entertainers

have you worked with?

I’ve worked with Sergio Mendes, The Jackson 5,

Paquito D’Rivera, Dave Valentin, Juan Pablo

Torres, Maynard Ferguson, John Klemmer, Gloria

Estefan, and Gloria Gaynor; there isn’t enough

room here to name them all.


Well, I have performed in over fifty countries, from

Australia to Zurich.

What was the occasion?

I have done seventeen international world tours

with a variety of artists.

Tell us about your career before moving to

Seattle, WA. Where were you living?

I really had no career in Miami, though I did a lot

of one-nighters with artists like Arturo Sandoval,

Nestor Torres, Johnny Pacheco, and others.

However, the work was only seasonal in Miami.

Why did you move to the Northwest? Well, there

is no short answer to this question, but I came

here for opportunities that I didn’t have in Miami.

That is, basically, to have a “musical life.” I found

one here in Seattle and I don’t regret the move at

all.

Tell us about your radio program.

My radio show, AL LADO LATINO

(www.kbcs.fm), is about Latin music—Latin Jazz,

Afro-Cuban, Salsa and more. I have been doing it

for four years now, and it’s still going strong.

What good things have been happening for you

during the last several months?

Well, I have been doing some session work with a

variety of artists, teaching privately, and gigging

with the Rhythm Syndicate, the Yoginis, Eric

Fridrich Trio, the TYPE A band, and whomever

else calls me.

Which is the most difficult percussion

instrument to master?

For me, it’s the Brazilian instrument—the

Pandiero.

Do you feel it’s a music educator’s obligation

to escort a star student into the professional

arena by showing him, or her, the ropes and

introducing the student to pros who might

consider working with a newcomer?

I don’t know if I would use the word ‘obligation,’

but I turn star pupils onto gigs when I can, and

educate them in the “business of show” and music.

Is there ever a time when a teacher should tell

a seemingly hopeless or lazy student that they

should choose another path?

I would leave that up to the student to decide, but

I would try to guide them with positivity.

Have you ever hurt your hands by practicing

or performing for extremely long periods of

time? If so, how did you heal them?

Well, I did 45 one-nighters on three continents

with Gloria Gaynor and my hands were beat up

and hurting. I would soak them in a bowl of ice

water, to help the swelling go down and that was

it. Well, after 45 years of playing and hitting the

drum, I am now on a program of glucosamine and

chondroitin. I found out about four years ago I had

no cartilage left in my hands. Since using these,

my hands and bones are feeling a lot better.

What else do you do to keep the home fires

burning?

I practice every day and teach every other day.

Other than choosing a career in music, what is

the most adventurous or dangerous thing you

have ever done?

U.S Army (Vietnam era), 1968-71.

To date, what is your most significant

achievement as a performer?

Performing at Carnegie Hall in NY City in front

of my friends and family.


The Music of Cuba—my motherland.

What do you know for sure?

That I will play until I die; even if I can’t, I will…


you and your music?

That I treated the music with integrity and respect,

and that I was a ‘giver’ of the drum.

Tracey Hooker

Trumpet, Olympia, WA

NOVEMBER, 2009

The one thing you must realize about the music

business is the value of having a great/deep love

for music. I think of my audience and what music

I would want to hear. When the tip jar is filled

and you see smiles on their faces, then you know

you are making that connection. The bottom line

is that if you make them happy, then you feel good

about what you do for a living.

I chose the trumpet because of those Hanna

Barbara cartoons of the 1960’s; those screaming

horns always caught my attention. I can still hear

the tunes in my head; remember the “Jonny Quest”

theme?

You are primarily known as a trumpet

player. Do you play any other instruments?

Although I wish I had chops for Bass or Piano,

trumpet is my only instrument. I remember my

father saying to me when I would play my sisters

flute, “Jack of all trades, master of none.” I have

seen some musicians play the daylights out of

multiple instruments, so that traditional school of

thought doesn’t always apply.

Which style of jazz are you most connected

with?

I mostly enjoy contemporary/smooth jazz. Melodic

lines always seem to call to me. One of my favorite

solos ever, believe it or not, is from the Eagles,

“One of These Nights”—much energy and a great

melodic line. I have always heard, “play something

you can leave your audience whistling.”

Which style of jazz are you least connected

with?

This is difficult to voice and admit and may make

some readers cringe, but I have found that a little

be-bop goes a long way. Of course, there is a time

and place for many (not all) things. I would like

to add in here that Van Gogh says, “To know life

is to love many things.” So, having said that, I

prefer the kind of music that relaxes, uplifts,

excites, and sometimes mellows me if I am feeling

a bit blue, but be-bop seems too frantic for me.

Which internationally respected artists have

you worked with?

Although I have spent most of my adult life in the

United States Navy Music Program, I have worked

with the O’Jays, Frankie Valli, Bobby Shew, and

Arturo Sandoval…to name a few.


Having previously mentioned the Navy Music

Program, I was fortunate enough to be stationed

in Naples, Italy during the early to mid-90’s. The

band spent much time on the road in support of

the 50

th

anniversary of D-Day. We traveled to some

18 countries during my three year tour. We were

always treated well by our host countries and

sponsors and, yes, I ate very well. For my money

though, Italy has the best food!

What is your academic background?

Growing up in Daytona Beach, Florida I attended

the local community college. Joining the Navy in

1982, I finally completed my B.A. in 1997 from

SUNY (State University of New York) in Albany,

NY. I guess you could say it took a while, but I

was active duty and making music everyday. One

perspective is that I was making a living in the

field I was also pursuing. I have to put in a plug

here: the Navy was a great education in itself.

Where do you start when you’re composing

original music?

Original music has never quite been a desire or a

gift of mine. I have written one blues tune about

my boat (“Mama Bleu“). If you own a boat, then

there is only one style fitting—the BLUES. I do

perform it on occasion and it has been requested

many times. This would have be a recognition and

understanding for others who share my misery.

Do you have perfect pitch?

Perfect pitch? I do know one person who has

perfect pitch but sings flat; go figure that. I have

relative pitch and I can thank Jamey Aebersold

for that. Countless hours have been spent playing

along with his CD’s…but wait…I started with

his books and vinyl. Bb is still ringing in my ears

man!

How can a serious jazz artist reach a younger

audience?

Reaching a younger audience has no real trick but

to play your music well and from the heart. I think

people can feel you on stage. Again, I tend to play

tunes with great melodies. If you are genuine with

your audience, they will respond.

Can jazz still be considered a party music?

You can sell jazz and people will dance. We play

tunes from the Charlie Brown (Vince Guaraldi)

library and people are up doing the Snoopy Dance.

Programming is key. No dead air between tunes

and carefully putting together your list thinking

about styles, tempos, how one tune ends, and how

one begins are all things that take work, but when

you collect your bread at the end of the night and

they book you for the next years event on the spot,

you know you’re doing something right. Put your

audience first. There will be times to show your

musical prowess during the evening. Maybe you

work a nice long cadenza and let your fingers rip.

Bottom line, making them happy makes you happy.

Which R&B, Soul or Rock artist has made a

NW JAZZ PROFILE

PROFILES FROM 2009

A LOOK

BACK

significant contribution to the contemporary

jazz vocabulary?

Contemporary Jazz is an ever-growing art form. It

is difficult to credit any one group or artist with a

greater influence over another. However, I am

always happy to hear some hip tune performed

with the flavor of smooth jazz.


I found the LOVE of my life just recently; she

is a classical pianist and her dedication to music

and to me has finally led my heart to her.

Other than jazz, what activities do you

enjoy?

Boating and music are my two great passions

in life. I always wanted to try hang-gliding and

actually did once; I was tethered though.

What do you want people to remember

about you and your music?

When people leave our performance I want them

to feel good because they had fun. Oh yeah,

maybe they would think I still have nice hair

for a man my age.

Butch Harrison

Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Keyboards, &

Vocals - Federal Way, WA

NOVEMBER, 2009

continue to give me good sound advice when

necessary.

STATE OF THE BIZ

The industry has changed so much (especially

at the marketing end) that it has become difficult

to maneuver in. You can’t get air play without

sales, and you can’t get sales without air play.

The music is out there but you really have to

know where it is or hunt it down online.

Meanwhile, the big producers are marketing

what they see as commercial and they also are

new on the scene. The labels of the past

(Motown, Polydor, Capitol and Arista) are under

new leadership and have been replaced by new

players such as Def Jam, or Gangsta and Death

Row. CD baby and Amazon have been saving

graces for the independent artists to get their

music out there, and it still remains a crap shot.

For now, the recipe seems to be to throw enough

stuff on several walls and see what sticks, but

you have to be careful what walls you hit.

PERSONAL LIFE

Life is still good. Health is well, I’ve been

blessed with a new grandson this year, my oldest

son is engaged to be married next summer, and

my youngest son stepped out on his first date

this month and, of course, the CD was just

released in August.

FAMILY LIFE

My wife of 18 years, and all my children, are

in good health and doing well.

PERSONAL GROWTH

I continue to be a student of life and believe

that learning is a life-long process; therefore, I

continue to learn.

The CD is good and you can access it directly

by going to www.cdbaby.com/cd/butchharrison.

Website: Butch Harrison on Face Book_ Email

address: [email protected] CAREER

BH: Wel l, so fa r, for November I’l l be

performing at the Southport Cafe on Friday the

13

th

, with Ms. Stephanie Porter and, Saturday

the 14

th

, at Vino Bella with Good Company.

There should also be some reoccurring dates at

“Saigon Palms” in Renton for Thursdays.

RECORDING CAREER

The new CD is still selling well locally and

moving around the globe. The US market is

taking off a little slower than one would think

it would.

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

I’ve been blessed to be in a good circle of friends

who continue to enjoy life and all that comes

with it. Ms Josephine Howell is having fun in a

new play, “Obama On My Mind,” and just

celebrated her birthday (I wont tell which one).

Darren Motamedy, Doug Barnett, Wadie Ervin,

and Brian Kirk are still doing their thing and

Danny Welsh

Tenor, Soprano Saxophones, Flute -

Seattle, WA

NOVEMBER, 2009

PERFORMANCE CAREER

Pretty much the same as the past few years;

I’ve been playing clubs, events and doing studio

work.

RECORDING CAREER

I’m in the middle of a new CD project that I’m

very excited about. It marks my first time as

composer, producer and, of course, saxophonist

all on the same project. The target date for

download release is March 2010. Look for it

on iTunes. My goal is to release an entirely

originally composed CD. I’ve got some good

sounding covers in the wings, but I don’t know

if I’m going to cave and add a few!

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

My true friends are like gold to me! They’re all

doing fine, My good friend, baseball historian

Dave Eskenazi, has a recently opened Pacific

Coast League display at the San Francisco

Ai rport. a mus t-see Sea ttl e P ilo ts’ 40 th

anniversary display at Safeco Field, and a book

co-written with the P.I.’s Dan Raley on the

history of the PCL, titled Pitchers of Beer , which

is being published this spring.

STATE OF THE BIZ

Well, obviously the internet has changed

everything . Music, being a downloadable

commodity, has given so many more artists

access to a much larger audience. In many ways,

it’s a great era for musicians.

PERSONAL LIFE

Well, I’m newly single and pretending I like it!

Lol! Hear that women? The silver lining is that

I have more time to spend on music which is

what I should be doing in the first place.

FAMILY LIFE

My family’s all doing well, particularly my

grown daughter who’s also my closest best

friend.

PERSONAL GROWTH

As I grow older, I’m definitely much more in

touch with what a true gift each and every day

really is. It’s easy when your very young to see

our time on this planet as infinite when, in fact,

it is quite finite. Email: [email protected]

Oghale Agbor

Vocalist - Seattle, WA

NOVEMBER, 2009

PERFORMANCE CAREER

I’m still making a name for myself—paying my

dues if you will. I am currently working on booking

some international performances; possibly some

gigs on a deluxe cruise line or a very nice hotel.

The demand that those kinds of gigs put on the

performer, I believe, will make me even stronger.

Sandra Locklear

Piano, Keyboards, Vocals,

Music Educator

NOVEMBER, 2009

PERFORMANCE CAREER

I’m happily into year three of polishing my

technique on Steinway grand pianos at the

Bellevue Collection, where I play 3 1/2 hours

without sheet music. This fall, I’ve been working

at some of the newer restaurants and clubs popping

up in south Seattle, sometimes with my singer-

guitarist husband, Jim. Holiday band gigs are

around the corner and, next year, I look forward

to doing some touring again.

RECORDING CAREER

“Girl Gone Jazz” was recorded in 2007 on my

ThunderEye Music label. It’s cool that people from

different countries are downloading cuts from my

albums. Lately, my company has been working

on editing video footage for YouTube. Last

February, I shared new original material at the

Women of Wisdom Conference in Seattle that will

be on my next album project. Then, there’s the

music I recorded in Africa. There’s not enough

time in the day!

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

Well, they all seem to have a special calling in

life. Last year, a friend on the Seeds of Compassion

committee gifted me with tickets and I took my

family to hear the Dalai Lama speak at Key Arena.

One couple I know connects goods and services

with the needy and I can donate stage clothing to

RECORDING CAREER

I am in a good position to start my first album. I

have, at my finger tips, some of the best musicians

around, and I have an ample repertoire and

wonderful arrangements for some of my favorite

songs. Currently, funding is the only hindrance to

my album being made.

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

Douglas Acosta, a good friend of mine, has taken

his destiny into his own hands and moved to New

York to boost his promising vocal career. He is

picking up speed and I’m very proud of him. His

web site is www.dougacosta.com; check him out

he is a true crooner.

STATE OF THE BIZ

I think the industry is what it has always been:

hard to trust and hard to ignore. I haven’t had much

personal experience with it, but what is being

fashioned as “popular” has left something to be

desired. I feel that individual artists need only keep

true to their hearts and find their niche somewhere

in the middle. My concern is how much one has

to choose between being able to perform what they

love and making a living performing. I do like

that artist have found and are creating vehicles to

sell their art that take some of the control out of

the industry hands and put some into their own.

PERSONAL LIFE

I am currently working on a book. It’s a book I’ve

been looking for all my life but have never found,

so I figured I may as well write it. It pegs questions

that I’ve never really heard people ask about their

lives, or life in general. It started with catching

some of my more in-depth conversations on tape,

and now I’m compiling what I have so far into a

blog called “Kneweyes.” I want to get a feel of

how people will react to it, then, after that, who

knows? Hopefully, a best-seller. I’m also learning

Brazilian Portuguese, such a beautiful language

to sing and speak. I will be adding some

Portuguese songs to my repertoire, so stay tuned.

FAMILY LIFE

My mother is currently releasing her second book

called “The ABC’s of Interpersonal Fitness.” Her

aim is making people aware of the root of conflict

and giving them the tools to resolve it in a healthy

way. Her website is www.conflicttransformer.com.

PERSONAL GROWTH

I am finding my “internal home” on stage; I’m

getting to the place where it feels like I’m

comfortably singing in my living room when I’m

doing a show. I also find myself intensely craving

the mic as one craves a lover, feeling jealous when

some one else gets to love it. I am learning to

store that energy and open it up completely when

I do get my spin on the stage; it’s quite powerful.

Website: www.oghaleagbro.com


the local theatre company that another friend runs.

I’m in awe of my band members; they’re all

talented artists busy with their families, teaching

and musical projects of their own.

STATE OF THE BIZ

I’m concerned about the state of music education

in America and the future of the music industry.

We now have legions of young people growing up

with no musical opportunity or exposure to a

musical role model. I spent all last year helping to

lead an arts advocacy effort in the school district

where I teach music part-time because we no

longer have middle or high school choirs. Our best

efforts failed because of a tidal wave of education

trends over the past five years that have put music

education in the back seat. Check out my research

article at www.newhorizons.org. I agree with

Michael Tilson, Music Director of the San

Francisco Symphony, that “we must not sit idly

by as artists.” If it weren’t for my mentor, I

wouldn’t have evolved into a professional

musician.

FAMILY / PERSONAL LIFE

Between career and marriage, mom care and

college and scholarship searches, I am blessed to

have a full and rich life that admittedly is

sometimes hard to juggle. So, I exercise and hang

out with my friends and try to pay attention to the

small miracles of daily life, like my daughter

getting all the way through “Fur D’elise” at her

homecoming show without a single mistake!

PERSONAL GROWTH

I’m into shamanism and sweat lodge but didn’t

start out that way. Pinning a Kleenex onto my head

before being dragged into Catholic mass as a young

girl was why I always played “The Impossible

Dream” once I became their church organist.

Website: www.sandralocklear.com


NW JAZZ PROFILE

PROFILES FROM 2009

A LOOK

BACK

I just try to continue to play lots of

music, practice and learn. And I try

to check out new music and come

up with new ideas. Other than that,

everything’s pretty cool.

PERFORMANCE CAREER

One of the bands I play in, McTuff, just completed

a West Coast tour and we have a lot of upcoming

tour dates. One of my other newly formed projects

is a jam night at Waid’s Haitian Cuisine every

Thursday night from 10pm to 1am; it’s called

“Kool Vybes.” In addition to live music, there is

also a live DJ—my good friend, Kuhnex. I mainly

wanted to do this in the Central Area community,

because there is a history there and members of

the community who need to know that there is

now a place where music can reach them.

RECORDING CAREER

I am currently involved with several recordings,

so look out for the release dates. I have a new

album coming out with the “Jason Parker Quartet.”

The CD release is at LUCID on Saturday, October

24

th

. I am really excited and looking forward to

my band, “Industrial Revelation,” to release our

debut recording called “Unreal Reality” soon.

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

A lot of my friends are musicians, of course, and I

feel that everyone is doing their part in the music

community. There is pretty much a jam session

every night of the week and I have been able to be

a part of them in one way or another. A lot of my

friends are composing a lot of new music and I

feel real good to be able to share that experience

with them.

STATE OF THE BIZ

In order for music to really progress and evolve,

younger musicians have to understand the roots

of music. I was heavily influenced to play music

by my dad. I first became aware of my musical

heritage by seeing a photograph of him at the

drums. Later on, it was my grandfather, Seattle

Organist Dave Lewis, and knowing that I came

D’Vonne Lewis

Drummer - Seattle. WA

NOVEMBER, 2009

Paul Richardson

Keyboards - Seattle, WA

NOVEMBER, 2009

from this line of musicians that brought me my

focus and appreciation. I think a lot of my

generation understands this concept and the music

is evolving as a result.

PERSONAL LIFE

You know, I tend to like to keep things like that

private, but everything in life is good right now

and I am thankful for everyday that I live and play

music.

Website: dvonnelewis.com


PERFORMANCE CAREER

I’m doing a lot more acoustic piano playing.

RECORDING CAREER

I’m just starting two new recordings. One will

be all original and the other will be cover tunes

from my solo gigs.

FAMILY LIFE

Just appreciating every moment I have with

every member of my family.

PERSONAL GROWTH

Focusing on people more.

REMEMBER THIS

I want to remembered as a family man that was

honest, kind and genuine, that played music

with his own passionate approach.

Website: www.paulrichardsonmusic.com

Email address:

[email protected]

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PERFORMANCE CAREER

Actually, I have carved out November for family

time; I have family in Southern California that

I’m long overdue to see! Both of my parents

are still alive, so I’ll connect with them for

Thanksgiving. It gives me time to line up and

prepare for the 2010. December, I have several

private shows up until the week of Christmas,

so I can rest and refresh for the New Year! It

was amazing to perform at the Blue Heron’s

during the Panache Jazz Series, Maureen

Gerard’s 88 Keys on Whidbey, and Dimitriou’s

Jazz Alley this past summer! The turn out blew

me away! I’m already lined up to return there,

Bake’s Place, and a few other great places.

RECORDING CAREER

I’m thrilled to be working with Bernie Jacobs,

Eric Verlinde, Evan Flory Barnes , Andre

Thomas, Thaddeus Spae, Wayne Porter, Clipper

Anderson, Randy Halberstad t and the

phenomenal Ms. Alaine Fitz-Carter on a new

vocal project entitled “Silk.” It’s a deliciously

warm and sensual take on some of the songs

from the Great American Songbook alongside

a few originals. I’ve had a chance to work with

a couple of great new songwr iters—Pete

Tomack, Lenard Jones, Beth Wulff—as well as

some of my own compositions.

CIRCLE OF FRIENDS

My friends are gigging and gigging hard! Erin

McGough, Josephine Howell, Special Kay

(Karen Anthony), Elna Jordan, Katie King,

Celestine Berrysmith, Grace Holden, Reggie

Goings, Overton Berry and Michael Powers—

Mercedes Nicole

Vocalist - Seattle. WA

NOVEMBER, 2009

just to name a few—are just laying down music

all over the Northwest and, in Josie’s case, the

world! It’s cool! I love them!

STATE OF THE BIZ

Each of us are uniquely our own and that in

it se lf is a beaut ifu l thing! The music/

entertainment industry needs to trust in this

reality NS embrace the fact that, when we

artists give our gift of music and voice to the

world, everyone will win! Everyone will get

paid. There is no shortage or lack of financial

base, so our fans and the people at large do not

need to be manipulated or protected. They are

intelligent enough to follow their hearts and

honor what and who they feel connects with

them. In doing so, the industry will do what it’s

designed to do: ‘make money.’ It’s a true, win-

win.

PERSONAL LIFE

Ah, the key here is ‘personal,’ so I try my best

to keep it that way. I’m enjoying people!

Enjoying other artists! I’m getting out there on

a weekly basis and supporting live music! That

excites me and inspires me! I wake up each day

looking forward to my next gig as well as who

I might see and hear. It makes my life full and

rich, and it makes me a better performer! I’m

definitely enjoying love; that’s all I can and am

willing to say! LOL!

PERSONAL GROWTH

On a daily basis, I try and find my balance and

put a lot of focus on what I am grateful for! I

recognize that I am connected to the entire world

family. We are part of a whole and not a

“everyone for him/herself” nation. I do a lot of

reading and a whole lot of forgiving myself and

others. Suspending judgment has become pretty

crucial. Who am I to judge and who am I to

criticize? Like my mama says, “ If I don’t have

anything good to say about someone or a

situation, keep my mouth shut.” It’s easier said

than done, but I work on it.

DREAMS?

To record with Herbie Hancock one day. To do

a tribute to Miles Davis and Shirley Horne.

They were pretty tight back in the day! My

dream band? OMG! There are so many talented

artists in the Pacific Northwest. There’s not

enough room to in this magazine to start the

discussion!


www.myspace.com/


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BLUES

Preston Miller

Michal Miller Band

I was born in Alabama but I never called

that home. A big Influence when I was a

kid were Yazoo Records of old Blues 78’s

with that nice scratchy sound KA-

CHUNCK they’re all on Cd’s now.

Michal Miller Band has been sent twice to

the IBC in Memphis. With

luck a little juice and a lot of pain maybe

we can go again. The Blues Rollon...

Tom “T-Boy Neal” Boyle

Becki Sue & her Big Rockin’ Daddies!

Known for his signature stingin’ Texas and

Chicago blues style, Tom “T-Boy Neal” Boyle is a

5-time winner (‘03, ’05, ’06, 0’7, ’09) of the WA

Blues Society’s “Best Electric Guitar” BB Award.

He is a founding member of one of the Pacific

Northwest’s hottest blues acts, Becki Sue & her

Big Rockin’ Daddies!

www.bigrockindaddies.com - www.myspace.com/tboyneal

[email protected] - Cell: 360-790-6105 - Fax: 360-357-5454

Kimball Conant

Kimball Conant & the Fugitives

Credits: Bumbershoot, 2005

Fisherman’s Restaurant last 3 summers, Seattle

Sunbanks Blues Festival 2006 & 07

Mukilteo Lighthouse Festival 2006, 07, 08

New Orleans Creole Restaurant, Seattle

Interbay Golf Course “Jazz on the Green” 2007, 08, 09

Everett Waterfront Festival 2007, 08, 09 EMP Seattle Center, 2006

Styles: Jazz, Blues, R & B Standards, Samba, Rhumba, Salsa, Tex-Mex, Polka, Cumbia,

Rockabilly, Country and Western, Western Swing, Folk, 50s/60s/70s Rock ‘n Roll Hits.

Booking: www.kimballconant.com www.stickshiftannie.com 206-661-7177

Mike Wright

Guitarist Mike Wright began performing as a

young man when he was in the Air Force, and he

continued playing professionally until he was

thirty-one years old. He took a hiatus to raise a

family, and after twenty four years he came back

in full swing, rediscovering his love for an old

friend, his guitar. He carefully reworked his 1970

Les Paul Custom “tuxedo”, revitalizing this fine

instrument that he plays today. Mike says he is

grateful to the South Sound Blues Association and the other blues

organizations for keeping the blues alive, and for welcoming and

encouraging musicians to participate in this great art form, called

“the blues.”

Billy Shew

Billy Shew Band

Billy has played in many diverse bands, which

include Blues, Jazz, Rock and Concert Bands.

He has performed in various clubs and festivals

throughout the Midwest and West Coast including

Big Reds in Amarillo Texas, Hwy 99 club in

Seattle, Dawson’s in Tacoma, Jazz Bones

Tacoma, Halftime Saloon in Gig Harbor, The

Firecreek in Kent, The Bite of Seattle and the Taste of Tacoma just to

name a few. Contact info: www.billyshewband.com, myspace.com/

billyshewband and email: [email protected].

Rafael Tranquilino

Randy Oxford Band

Rafael Tranquilino, of the Randy Oxford Band, is

one of the hottest young guitar-slingers in the

region. His style is spirited and energetic, a

skillful blend of Blues with Jazz, Rock, Funk, and

Latin. He has a smooth, soulful voice and a

knack for writing songs that speak to the heart, whether the words are in

English or Spanish. Rafael has several side projects, including an

up-coming CD and his own band, Jesse the Wolf.

Al Alto

Maia Santell and House Blend

Intense and edgy, and sometimes over the top.

Al Alto’s guitar playing is finger pickin’ wild, with a

tone and style that give him ranges of expression

that few others come close to. He owes his claim

to fame “redneck jazz” finger-style to guitarist

Danny Gatton. Like many musicians he was a fan

of BB King and Jimi Hendrix, and studied

Hendrix’s unique style, rooted in blues. Like Hendrix, Alto is a multi-

stylist, often playing four or five styles in one - jazz, blues, rock, funk

and country. To check out Al with Maia and the rest of the band see:

www.MaiaSantell.com

There are usually four main elements that

come together to make a hot blues band. Of

course there are the vocals, the bass and the

drums, but the average blues band just

wouldn’t be able to deliver that in-your-face,

burning urgency without a guitarist who’s

really laying it down. When you’re ready to

hear some great blues, and dance your butt

off, use this guitarist showcase as your guide

to the areas hottest blues bands. See you at

the show.

You Can Be In

Guitar Slingers!

Coming In February, 2010

CONTACT BIG FUN TODAY TO

RESERVE YOU SPOT.

253-473-1866 - [email protected]

Documents

Big Fun December 2009