Cincy Jazz Talk

A Newport Arts & Jazz Fest Concern

2009-07-10T22:12:00.002-04:00

Happy Friday everyone!

Earlier this week, I read in the Cincinnati Enquirer that the Newport Arts & Jazz Festival will be cancelled due to declining crowds and artist participation. This festival is usually held over a weekend during the summer, and has been organized by the city of Newport for the past 13 years. Newport officials & business owners are hoping to put together a one-day arts festival in the fall.

I have to say that I have mixed thoughts about this. Don't get me wrong, I'm all in favour of an Arts Festival ANY part of the year. But I'm concerned about the possibility of our Jazz Musicians not having the opportunity to perform at this fall event (with sincere hopes that its successfully launched). Maybe I take things too literally, but the article says (without revealing too much) that the Newport Arts & JAZZ Festival will be cancelled this summer, but city officials are working to organize a one-day ARTS festival this fall. "Jazz" is not mentioned in the fall event. With the preface of "There's no such thing as a stupid question", I think I'm going to send an email to Newport Mayor Jerry Peluso, simply asking if the officials plan to include Jazz musicians in this one-day fall event.

Take a look at the article - here's the link: http://nky.cincinnati.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/AB/20090707/NEWS0103/907080337/

After reading this, feel free to chime in on this blog. What are your thoughts on the cancelling of this festival? Do you think the city of Newport will be successful in organizing one in the fall? Do you think Jazz musicians will be included in this festival? I certainly hope so!

While typing the last few lines I've decided to email Jerry Peluso with this simple question. I'll be sure to update everyone on his response as soon as I get it. Have a great weekend - cheers!

- jh

Supporting Jazz in Louisville

2009-06-30T23:37:00.002-04:00

Happy end of June everyone!

While the focus on The Jazz Half encompasses Cincinnati-area jazz, its important to know that its not uncommon for Cincinnati Musicians to perform gigs in places like Louisville, Dayton, or Columbus. Conversely, Musicians from these areas are known to perform here in Cincinnati.

Knowing this, its easily understood that Jazz music really needs to thrive on a regional scale. On March 29th, 2008, the Louisville-based Jazz Factory hosted their final show before closing its doors. The Jazz Factory had a good 5-year run, hosting regional, national, and international Jazz Artists.

This is unfortunate, but significant efforts are being made to keep jazz going in Louisville. Saxophonist Ron Jones has been instrumental (no pun intended) in spreading the word about his shows. His Duo, along with Sonny Stephens on Bass, have been playing at Bourbon's Bistro on Sunday nights from 7-9pm. Their next show is Sunday July 5th. And starting earlier that day, Ron & Sonny will perform at Brendan's Restaurant from 11am-2pm for brunch. Starting July 5th, they'll play at Brendan's on the first Sunday of every month.

Ron's quartet will be on hand for a free concert at the Turtle Run Winery on Sunday, July 12th from 1:30 to 5:30pm. Ron is keeping busy with all his shows in Louisville. He's working hard to keep the music going and I want to help pass the word along.

Cincinnati/Dayton Residents: If you have relatives or friends who live in Louisville, encourage them to go see Ron at Boubon's or Brendan's. Or perhaps take a short overnight trip to catch a show and dinner. Let's help support our neighboring cities and their Jazz performances. To learn more about Ron Jones, visit his website. For phone number, directions, and a menu for Bourbon's Bistro, click here.

Louisville: A good getaway, without going far away for some Ron Jones Jazz! Cheers!

- jh

Brent, Wings, & Rings

2009-06-27T00:51:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone!

As the summer heats up, the Brent Gallaher Trio is making things even hotter with a string of performances at Buffalo Wings & Rings in Tri-County. Stop by BWR on Sunday evenings from 7pm to 10pm for a cold drink, hot wings, and hot jazz.

Visit www.bwrtricounty.com for directions to Buffalo Wings @ Rings, and their full menu.

To learn more about Brent Gallaher, visit his website at http://www.brentgallaher.com/ and don't forget to become a member on his network!

Hope to see you there - cheers!

- jh

Coming to a venue near you... it's SDSJ!

2009-06-21T23:23:00.002-04:00

Hello everyone, and welcome to the first day of June.

Keep your eyes peeled for a VERY talented young Jazz Trio beginning to play throughout the Queen City. The group is SDSJ, and consists of Ian McCullough on Keys, Kyle Smith on Bass, and Megan Lindle on Vocals. Two weeks ago, I had the pleasure of hearing SDSJ at a very special event. The group performed numbers such as "Sugar", "All the Things You Are" and more. The Alto of Megan's voice seamlessly gels with Kyle & Ian's accompaniment. All three musicians performed together in the Xavier University Jazz Ensemble under the Director of Jazz Studies, Mr. John DeFoor.

I was fortunate to sit down for a chat with Ian & Kyle to learn a little more about the group. Click here to listen to my Exclusive Interview with SDSJ.

The Jazz Half will continue to follow this Trio closely. For more information on SDSJ, including upcoming dates, keep visiting The Jazz Half's Event Calendar. Cheers!

- jh

2 New interviews on "The Half"

2009-05-31T22:23:00.002-04:00

Good Sunday Evening to everyone,

I hope you have enjoyed your weekend. Just wanted to drop a line letting everyone know this week, the summer edition of "The Inner Circle" newsletter will be released to those who have subscribed to receive it from The Jazz Half. If you haven't subcribed, but interested in receiving this FREE newsletter, simply send an email to thejazzhalf@gmail.com . Make sure to include your full name and email address in the body of your message. This information is for the sole purpose of sending the free newsletter. The Jazz Half DOES NOT solicit email addresses to ANY OTHER organizations or groups.

While waiting for the newsletter, feel free to drop into "The Half" and listen to the 2 most recent exclusive interviews - one with the hip, dynamic Trumpter Wade Baker, and the other with a sensational musician & educator, Russel Blake - a magnificent bassist from Los Angeles.

Click here to listen to my chat with Wade Baker, and learn what he wanted to play before the Trumpet.

Click here for the Russel Blake interview, and learn how his musicianship runs in the family.

And stay tuned for The Inner Circle newsletter! Cheers!

- jh

LOVE this time of year!

2009-05-22T23:53:00.002-04:00

Hey, its me again...

Just as the title of this post indicates, I love this time of year - Memorial Day Weekend! I love it for a number of reasons. First off, at my place of work, this is the first off-day holiday we'll have since New Year's Day - that's one helluva stretch! We don't get MLK or President's Day off. And keeping in the spirit of my annual tradition, I have taken the Friday off prior to the big weekend. And I must say this day off was used quite productively; as I have some BIG Jazz Half updates coming soon!

But as I was saying, I love this weekend for lots of reasons. As for the weather, we're out of the bitter cold and still have a short while before the miserable humidity. St. Ann's Festival is every Memorial Day weekend - Kicking off the Church festival season (I LOVE Church Festivals - BIG SIX! All bets down, no more bets!). The Taste of Cincinnati is held downtown this time of year as well. Hundreds of restaurants around the city set up booths showcasing some of their featured menu items in sample sizes. Beer booths in every direction you turn and of course, 6 stages featuring some great music ranging from R&B, to Rock, to Indie, Country, and Jazz.

Hey, speaking of Jazz, if you're downtown in the early evening of Saturday the 23rd, grab a couple cheese coneys or a gyro, a beer, and stroll over to the Blues & Jazz stage to catch the incomparable Wade Baker and his group. They will be performing from 6 to 8pm and everyone whose anyone will be there (including me, courtesy of my scooter. I'll be the one eating the pulled pork sandwich with barbecue sauce on my shirt). Hope to see you down there! Cheers, and have a safe and enjoyable Memorial Day Weekend!

- jh

In Honour of Louie...

2009-05-14T00:35:00.004-04:00

Hello Everyone,

I certainly hope everyone is enjoying the month. The jazz world recently lost a dear friend and Pioneer to the music. On February 14th of this year, legendary drummer Louie Bellson passed away at the age of 84.

Born in Rock Falls, Illinois in 1924, he's played the drums since the age of three. By the time he was 17, he beat out over 40,000 drummers to win the Gene Krupa Contest. Louie served in the U.S. Army Band and over the years played with Benny Goodman, Louis Armstrong, Tommy Dorsey, Lionel Hampton, and countless others. He is well known for his work with Duke Ellington for which he wrote "Skin Deep".

Louie has been the leader of his Orchestra for over 40 years, and has given back to the music 1,000 times over by way of holding drum clinics at High Schools & Colleges. He has earned dozens of accolades, including the prestigious American Jazz Masters Award by the National Endowment for the Arts.

Musicians and Jazz Studies Students alike are more enriched by the efforts of Louie Bellson - whether directly or indirectly. The Jazz Community is profoundly grateful for Louie's music, creativity, teachings, and overall efforts.

For more information on Louie Bellson, please visit http://www.louiebellson.info/home.html

Cheers!

- jh

Catching up after a busy month...

2009-05-10T17:00:00.004-04:00

Hello Everyone!

SOOO sorry I have been out of touch lately - TONS of different things going on. I totally missed the month of April, and I apologize. Starting this week, look forward to reading at least THREE posts a week - but they may be a bit shorter than some of the past posts.
Anywho, let's get caught up on things:

- April was Jazz Appreciation Month. A great month for catching live jazz music anywhere!

- On April 5th, Triage, featuring Eugene Goss was on hand at the Fairfield Community Arts Center. I was fortunate to attend the show; and posted a short review to share. I was also fortunate to chat with Eugene Goss & Billy Larkin. Click here to read the review, and click here to listen to the exclusive interview.

- April 24th marked the beginning of the 40th anniversary of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. What began as a spontaneous gathering between Mahalia Jackson, Duke Ellington, and the Eureka Brass Band on the Festival Grounds of Beauregard Square, turned into an ageless, iconic event - representing the appeal and cultural significance of New Orleans. Over the decades, the festival has even drawn artists of other genres, and this year was no exception with artists such as Erika Badu, Dave Matthews Band, James Taylor, Joe Cocker, and more. Ellis & Wynton Marsalis, The Preservation Hall Jazz Band, The Neville Brothers and more were there as well. The Festival consisted of awesome music, arts, crafts, and of course FOOD! For a full show schedule, pictures, and more, visit nojazzfest.com.

- The Jazz Half has a new look! That's right - visit The Jazz Half and peruse throughout the site. The changes are not only cosmetic, there's also a few new additions to the site (we'll see if you can find them!)

- The Spring edition of "The Inner Circle" Newsletter was recently released. If you haven't received one, its because you're not part of The Inner Circle! How to become a part of it? Simply send an email to thejazzhalf@gmail.com with your full name & email address. The Jazz Half NEVER solicits your email address to other groups or organizations.

- And finally, The Jazz Half is now on Facebook! If you have a facebook profile, join the Jazz Half Group as a fan - its yet another way of keeping up on Cincinnati Jazz, and Jazz in general! If you don't have a facebook profile, what better time (and reason) to sign up! Click here to become a fan of the Jazz Half.

WHEW, that was a lot of information! Keep dropping into this blog for more great stuff on Cincinnati Jazz and more. Cheers!

- jh

A Music of Many Faces...

2009-03-10T21:54:00.002-04:00

Good Evening!

I hope everyone's having a great week thus far as we near the halfway point.

I have something to share with you that's absolutely HOT! There is a Writer who lives in Colorado named Cicily Janus, and she is really doing some great things in the Jazz world. Cicily is writing a book called "The New Face of Jazz" that will contain stories of, and interviews with Jazz Musicians (plus a lot more). Visit her website to see what all the buzz is about (www.newfaceofjazz.com).

And if you think that's good, she will be interviewing Tenor Saxophonist Sonny Rollins this Friday (March 13th) and will have an excerpt from the interview on her newsletter. I'm telling you, Cicily is MAKING THINGS HAPPEN out there!

To read the excerpt from her interview with Sonny Rollins, you MUST sign up for her newsletter (insert "how do I..." question here).

I'll tell you how! Simply send an email to newfaceofjazzmailinglist@gmail.com and type "Mailing List" on the subject line with your full name in the body of the email and you're signed up to receive publication news, insider interview info., exclusive pics and more!

I recommend you run - don't walk, to your computer and sign up for this. I did, and I can't wait to read the Sonny Rollins excerpt. Cheers!

- jh

Play it Forward's Concert for a Cause

2009-03-08T00:36:00.005-05:00

How about that weather we had today?

Here's another question: How many of you washed your cars? Planted flowers? Worked in your backyard? Wore shorts? Rode a motorcycle or motorscooter? Don't worry, I'm right along there with you. While the Realist in me understands today was exceptionally unseasonal, the optimist in me feels this is a sweet sign of what's to come.

Another forthcoming good sign is the Play it Forward "Concert for the Cause" & CD-Release Party on March 12th at the Madison Theater in Covington.

Play it Forward was founded by Comedian, Radio Celebrity, and Musician Gary Burbank. Its mission is to support local musicians in need and to help foster a strong music community in the greater Cincinnati area. The organization is launching with a bang - dozens of outstanding local artists contributed their talents toward a 30 track, 2-disk compilation CD, which will be released at this spectactular event. Tickets are $12 presale or $15 at the door, available at Madison Theater and on their website. All proceeds from the door and CD sales will benefit the organization and their mission of supporting musicians. The event is sponsored by Hudy Delight beer.

The lineup for this event includes:

Gary Burbank with Blue Run

The Blue Birds

Sonny Moorman

Ricky Nye

Tracy Walker

Keith Little

Rootbound

Noah Hunt

Scotty Anderson

The Turkeys

Tickets are also available at Shake It Records, Clifton Natural Foods, Buddy Rogers in Anderson, Susan's Natural World, Everybody's Records, and Burbank's Real BBQ.

Tell your friends about the Play it Forward CD Release Party on March 12th. This is the perfect opportunity to show our gratitude and appreciation for all that local musicians do to provide entertainment in our city. Cheers!

- jh

The Duke just keeps making history...

2009-03-01T22:04:00.002-05:00

Welcome to March!

Just 20 short days 'til the first day of Spring, so don't worry - we're almost there!

I'm sure you already know this, but I wanted to take a quick moment to mention in this historic year that we saw Barack Obama sworn into office, we will now see Duke Ellington on the new District of Columbia coin, making him the first African-American in history to appear by himself on a circulating U.S. coin.

The new coin was introduced at the Smithsonian Institute's National Museum of Natural History last Tuesday (Feb. 24th). D.C. is Duke Ellington's birthplace.

This is yet another indication of the amazing impact that African-Americans, and the Art form of Jazz music has placed in American History. I'm not a coin collector, but the first opportunity I have to get a quarter bearing the image of this Pulitzer-Prize, Multi-Grammy Award winning Legend, I'm going to keep it in a safe place - and I suggest you do the same. Have a great week!

- jh

"Loco" about Poco Loco!

2009-02-17T22:58:00.000-05:00

Good Evening!

For months, I would receive emails and reminders about upcoming performances by the 10-piece Latin Jazz Band, Poco Loco. For months I would set the date on my calendar, and when the date finally arrived, some demand of life always found a creative way of wedging between me and the event.

But not on the night of February 10th, where they played at the Northside Tavern. What a fun band! This group is as festive and energetic as the name it bears. I was immediately captivated with their opener that night - the hard-driving tune "Caravan". Absolute KILLER solos from Tenor Saxophonist William Brian Hogg, Trumpeter Walt Azagba, and Alto Saxophonist Dan Barger. On this very cold evening in the dead of winter, I learned that you can count on the energy of Poco Loco to turn up the heat (trust me, its true). If you haven't heard them live, RUN - don't walk to their next event. Wanna learn more about them? Visit their website (http://www.pocolocomusica.com/), or join their group on facebook.

Go Loco for Poco Loco!

- jh

An Afternoon in Fairfield

2009-02-08T22:02:00.000-05:00

Good Evening,

This afternoon, I saw an extraordinary performance by the Dan Karlsberg Sextet at the Fairfield Community Arts Center. The sextet consisted of Dan on Piano, Sandy Suskind on Flute & Alto Sax, Garin Webb on Tenor & Soprano Sax, Marc Fields on Trombone, Jim Anderson on Bass, and Anthony "T" Lee on Drums. This event was part of the Jazz Alive! series (visit them at http://www.jazzalive.info/). Now, you may have heard me talk about Dan Karlsberg and his creative arranging style on WCJS Showcase Spotlights. You may have even listened to my exclusive interview with Dan. But I must say that one doesn't really appreciate all the talk until they've had the opportunity to listen for themselves. At this event, I heard several tunes that were new (at least to me), and his artistic gift for writing, arranging, and playing rings loud and clear in every number, including originals like "Mission to Mars", "Molly's Mood", and "Ballad".

A big THANKS to Dan Karlsberg and his Sextet. If you missed this event, set the date on your calendar for March 21st. The Sextet will perform in the Reading Garden Lounge of the Main Branch Public Library downtown on Vine Street. The show starts at 2:00 - don't miss it! Cheers!

- jh

Congratulations John!

2009-02-04T22:56:00.000-05:00

Congratulations are in order for Xavier University’s Director of Jazz Studies John DeFoor. Last Month, John was asked to direct the National Jazz Band for the Inauguration Ceremonies for President-Elect Barack Obama!

The National Jazz Band is an All-Star Band of college musicians from schools in the Washington, D.C. area. John is no stranger to this honor, as he has directed the bands for former President Clinton’s first and second terms.

Last year, John celebrated his 25th anniversary as Director of Jazz Studies at Xavier. He is a significant representation of the depth in Jazz knowledge, background, and aptitude that lives here in Cincinnati.

The Jazz Half was able to catch up with John last summer as the XU Jazz Ensemble started working on their studio project for their upcoming CD, "Make Me Smile".

Click the play button above to watch the interview. Again, congratulations John!

- jh

Arturo Sandoval and our Bearcats @ the Orange Bowl

2009-01-11T23:16:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone!

I know its been awhile. I hope everyone's had a safe and enjoyable holiday season! So here we are with a new year - an opportunity for fresh starts and the continued growth of oneself.

Like myself, if you're a Bearcat fan, the new year kicked off with watching UC compete in their biggest game of the school's history - the Orange Bowl. Sure, the Bearcats came up short, but they have nothing to be ashamed about. The team has come a long way; we're still very proud of them, and this takes nothing away from the fact that they've had one heck of a season.

I'm also sure you saw the excellent start where the Bearcats drove the ball downfield in 6 plays for the first score. Well, hit the rewind button back a little to see legendary Jazz Trumpeter Arturo Sandoval perform the National Anthem. Talk about a full, powerful sound - what a performance! He even boldly takes the "high road" on the optional upper octaves (i.e. "...the laaaaand of the freeee-EEEEEEEEE!!!!!"). And the exclamation point he put on the last note said it all.

I can't say anything about his abilities that hasn't been said. I was just very delighted the NCAA (or Entertainment Dept. Staff) chose a Jazz Musician to perform the National Anthem - after all, Jazz IS an American Original, right?

Anyhow, I hope everyone has a happy, healthy, and prosperous New Year. Stay in tune with The Jazz Half for info on all the Cincinnati-area Jazz events for 2009! Cheers!

-jh

XUJE Plays The Lyric!

2008-12-14T22:25:00.000-05:00

Seasons Greetings, everyone!

On Friday Dec. 5th, The Jazz Half co-sponsored the Xavier University Jazz Ensemble's show at the Lyric, located in Reading. This was a FANTASTIC night of music! A wonderful turnout of people came to hear jazz music as the audience flowed up to the Balcony level. The ensemble, under the direction of John DeFoor, performed selections from their soon-to-be-release CD, "Make Me Smile". This event was truly special; it not only represented the Ensemble's first winter performance off-campus, but was also a birthday celebration for the group's Business Manager, Sue Brown, with all sorts of appetizers, and a beautiful birthday cake. The Jazz Half is more than happy to help make this event possible for the XUJE. A big THANKS to the Ensemble, John DeFoor, and Sue Brown for a great performance. The students sure know how to kick off their winter break! Stay in touch with The Jazz Half for scheduled performances from the XUJE in the spring! Cheers!

- jh

Barbeque n' Jazz

2008-11-29T00:12:00.000-05:00

Hello all,

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. The night before the big Turkey day, I caught word on some live jazz in, of all places, a Barbeque Restaurant. I don't know about you, but for some reason, I tend to correlate barbeque with blues. Maybe its from the live blues performances that always took place at Burbank's, or perhaps its the city of Memphis that comes to mind, with Behle Street, B.B. King, and the many Barbeque joints. But who says a barbeque place can't play live jazz - and moreover, who says you can't find live jazz in the Colerain/Mt. Healthy area?

Here enters Pit to Plate, located on 8021 Hamilton Ave. Pit to Plate was one of the restaurants providing food for the Fifth Third "It's Commonly Jazz" series in Eden Park back in August. For the past month of Wednesdays, Pit to Plate has hosted what I call a "String Sensation" of Jazz music from 6:30 to 9:00pm. On Thanksgiving Eve, I ordered 6 smoked wings and a cup of chili (both of which I recommend) and listened to Bob Rowlette on Bass, Dick Sorice on Guitar, and Lou Lousche on Violin. Lou is usually seen playing bass, but on this night he dusted off the violin and in convincing fashion, made it fit like a glove in various jazz standards they performed. Guitarist Steve Barone has played there on past Wednesday evenings as well.

This is what I've talked about for some time: The need for a place that has live jazz mid-week for those who can't make it down to the city, and without the late-night hours. With Pit to Plate LITERALLY 5 minutes from where I live, and the performance hours from 6:30 to 9:00, this was ideal for me. For those of you looking for the same, I will try my best to find places like Pit to Plate and include them on the Jazz Half's event calendar. Don't get me wrong - give me a Friday or Saturday night, and I'm there for the last note of the last set as the place closes. But its also nice to see that live music isn't limited to the weekend nights alone. As we exit the last week of November and enter the first week of December, make sure you check the event calendar on The Jazz Half for future shows at Pit to Plate - and don't forget to order the wings and chili. Here come the Holidays!!!

- jh

The best way to cap off the work week…

2008-11-18T01:01:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone and welcome to a new week.

As many of you know, Friday is my favourite day of the week; and attending the Jazz Half’s “Event of the Month” last Friday made it all the better. The JHEOTM consisted of the Tim Warfield Quartet, who performed at The Blue Wisp. This was an absolutely magnificent performance. The Walnut Hills H.S. Jazz Ensemble warmed up the evening with a packed house, followed by the quartet of Tim Warfield on Tenor & Soprano Saxes, Neil Podgurski on Piano, Brandon Meeks on Bass, and Anthony “T” Lee on Drums.

Tim Warfield, originally from York, Pennsylvania is internationally-known and has performed with legends Dizzy Gillespie, Jimmy Smith, Christian McBride, Stefon Harris, and many others. In May of this year, he released his latest project, “One for Shirley” in tribute to longtime friend and mentor, iconic Organist Shirley Scott. The quartet performed some standards (“What would I do” in the 1st set, and “Summertime” in the 2nd encore), but the most captivating to my ears were the original numbers, some of these numbers which, when conversing with the audience, Tim mentioned were inspired by personal experiences, a point in his life, or colleagues which he’s collaborated with. One original piece called, “Blues for Mr. Bill”, sympathizes with the mishaps of the ‘70’s SNL claymation character of the same name.

Tim Warfield’s performance style is very poised and balanced. This is reflective of his persona. When he engaged the audience, his voice and demeanor was as fluid as the very way in which he plays – a wonderful performance indeed. BUT I CAN’T SAY ANYMORE ABOUT THE SHOW!!! Why, you ask? Because very soon, you’ll be able to read the full show review on thejazzhalf.com, that’s why! Also, after the show, I had an opportunity to chat with Tim Warfield about the early part of his career, his latest CD, Shirley Scott, and more. So keep your eyes (and ears) peeled to thejazzhalf.com for the review of the show and the exclusive interview! Ciao!

- jh

Up from the South...it's Gypsy Jazz!

2008-11-10T23:32:00.000-05:00

Hello everyone,

I feel compelled to share with you some wonderful information regarding an upcoming event!

This event features a group that is led by one of the best finger-style guitarists in the WORLD. The group is The Hot Club of Nashville, and the event is an evening of Gypsy Jazz, starting off with Cincinnati's own Faux Frenchmen!

This exclusive, one-night show will be held on Friday, Nov. 21st at the 20th Century, 3021 Madison Ave. in the heart of Oakley. Advance tickets are $20. The doors and bar open at 6:00pm, with the show starting at 8:00.

Don't forget to mark your calendar for November 21st and tell all those you know! For more information, contact Tim Sendelbach at 513-919-9240. Or send him an email at tsendelbach@tamarackentertainment.com

Hope to see you there! Cheers!

- jh

A Rare Opportunity...

2008-10-07T23:18:00.000-04:00

Good Evening Everyone,

Don't miss this rare opportunity to hear a master percussionist! Jose Rosa is from Puerto Rico (now based in Orlando) and will be at the Blue Wisp, 318 E. 8th Street at 8:30pm!

There will also be performances from outstanding Cincinnati Latin Jazz performers such as Sonia and Jaime Morales!

Poco Loco will open the show with their 9-piece Latin Jazz band consisting of a full rhythm section, three horns, vibes and guitar.

In between performances and free dance lessons by Salsa Underground. It's a night not to be missed and won't be repeated!

Jazz at Jaspers

2008-10-04T01:46:00.000-04:00

Here we are, on the threshold of the first weekend in October. Or maybe you're like me, and prefer to start the weekend early (despite the fact I'm still working on Friday).

As my closest friends know, Friday is my favourite day of the week. Due to this fact, I tend to start the weekend on Thursday nights. This time, I rang in the weekend with a visit to Jaspers on Mt. Lookout Square. My first time there, I was intrigued with the openess of this former theater. Bruce Menefield was performing with his ensemble - Mike Sharfe on Bass, Anthony "T" Lee on Drums, and of course, Bruce on Tenor and Alto. These guys "took it to the house" with such standards as "In a Sentimental Mood" and Herbie Hancock's "Cantaloup". In my first experience seeing Bruce perform, I sat there with my glass of water kicking myself for forgetting my camera to share a few pics with everyone. But that, of course, doesn't keep me from sharing what I have observed.

Throughout the month of October, Jaspers will feature performances on alternate Thursdays between Bruce Menefield and jazz pianist Steve Schmidt. And you know something? I am here to tell you - Jaspers is an extraordinary venue for attending Jazz events. The high, curved ceilings lend itself to dynamic acoustics. The openess & layout of the inside invites comfort for everyone who walks through the entrance. This includes unobstructed views of the stage from literally ANY perspective, thanks to preserving the traditional, Theater-Style slanted floor, leading down to the stage, at the foot of what used to be the cinema screen.

Jaspers is a place with a lot of character. The inside reminds me of a venue from the 1930's or 40's that could easily accommodate a Count Basie or Duke Ellington's Orchestra. So my recommendation for Thursday night jazz in October is to take a short drive to Jaspers, 3187 Linwood Ave. What better way to start the weekend early? For more information on Jaspers, visit http://www.jaspersmtlookout.com/. Cheers!

- jh

"The Jazz Half" Night is coming soon to the Lyric!

2008-09-22T23:31:00.000-04:00

Mark your calendars for October 8th!

Why?
The Lyric, a new venue in the heart of Reading, is open and ready to host some great performances. I'm excited to announce the SECOND WEDNESDAY OF EVERY MONTH is officially “The Jazz Half” night at the Lyric!!!

October 8th is the kickoff evening featuring sensational vocalist April Aloisio. The Lyric is located at 8907 Reading Rd. (behind Lucy’s Diner) and the show runs from 7 to 10pm. Admission is $5.00, and affordably-priced concessions and [non-alcoholic] beverages will be available.

Spread the word to everyone you know! The Jazz Half night at the Lyric is aiming to become another fantastic jazz event in the city!!! For more information or questions, send an email to liveatthelyric@gmail.com or email@thejazzhalf.com . See you there!

A Successful Series!

2008-09-02T22:25:00.000-04:00

What's Cookin' , Everyone?

I'll tell you what WAS cookin' last month - The Fifth Third "It's Commonly Jazz" series that took place every Thursday in August. Eden Park's Seasongood Pavillion proved to be more than accommodating for all the jazz fans who attended. This family-friendly event was perfect for the long-time jazz lover sitting front and center, absorbing every note; and equally perfect for those sitting in the grass enjoying the background music as they read a book. And yes, The Jazz Half was on hand for every single show. Click HERE to see pictures from each show. I'm telling you, Eden Park was DEFINITELY the place to be on Thursdays in August - the weather couldn't have been better! From the high-energy delivery of Tia Fuller's Saxophone, to the relaxed vocals of Thelma Massey with the Randy Villars Trio, to the innovative sound of The Ron Jones Quartet, and the engaging feel of the Mike Wade Quintet, you would have been well-served to attend at least one of these performances.

The Jazz Half was fortunate to interview each of these groups EXCLUSIVELY. Click HERE to listen to the interview audiocasts. The Jazz Half would like to sincerely thank each group for their time and graciousness.

As for everyone else - plan early, and mark your calendars for next year; as this Jazz Series is now officially settled into its new home at Seasongood Pavillion in Eden Park. Cheers!

- jh

Welcome to August

2008-08-07T23:20:00.000-04:00

Hey There!

Long time! I hope you're having a wonderful summer. I also hope you're still checking into The Jazz Half for scheduled events, show reviews, and WCJS - the official radio station. Well, August is here and this month brings us Fifth-Third's "It's Commonly Jazz" series. After 22 great years of bringing Jazz to the Courtyard at Swifton Commons Mall, the new venue for the event this year is the Seasongood Pavilion in Eden Park! This Thursday (Aug. 7th) was the kickoff of the Series, and it couldn't have kicked off any better than with the Tia Fuller Quartet! These ladies are INCREDIBLY talented and have been playing together for 7 years. The quartet consist of Tia Fuller on Saxes, Shamie Royston on Piano, Miriam Sullivan on Bass, and Kim Thompson on Drums. The group opened with an original piece called "Gullyism", and really moved everyone with a 2-part suite called "Katrina's Prayer/Katrina's Lullabye" - inspired by the people of New Orleans, and their strong resolve to see through the struggles left behind from the hurricane. They opened the 2nd set with a very intense, high-energy number called "Breakthrough", and closed the show with "My Shining Hour". This was a fantastic evening - a mild, slightly breezy Thursday dusk. The crowd truly enjoyed themselves.

If you missed this one, you've really should have been there. But don't fret - more performances will be given as the series continues this month every Thursday starting at 6:00pm. Next week, the series welcomes the Randy Villars, featuring Thelma Massey. Hope to see you there! Meanwhile, click HERE to check out some of the pictures from tonight's show! Cheers!

- jh

The 20th Century Jazz Series Kicks off BIG!

2008-05-23T00:08:00.000-04:00

Good Evening (or Morning) everyone!

Last night's Jazz Series at the 20th Century in Oakley was OUT OF THIS WORLD!

The turnout was magnificent. Thanks to all who attended this event and showed their support for a wonderful cause. As I'm sure everyone knows, this event was held to benefit Give Back Cincinnati's service trip to New Orleans this July. The creole appetizers were very delicious - from the Gumbo, to the Dirty Rice, and especially the Mufalatta sandwiches! The Silent Auction was a big hit as well, with people bidding on various merchandise, from tools to handmade jewelry, and more. Erwin Stuckey warmed up the crowd with his stride piano. Then the Queen City Zapatistas Brass Band turned up the heat - marching through the atrium, down to the stage, and back to the atrium playing New Orleans-style jazz music that was powerful and energetic. Everyone in the Theater made their way to the Atrium, clapping their hands, smiling and chanting to the music. This was a TRUE celebration of the New Orleans music and culture. Seeing and hearing it sent chills down my back; as my mind wandered to the thought of those in New Orleans struggling since hurricane Katrina, yet very faithful, resolute, and PROUD of their city. I affirmed for myself the importance of helping these fine people. This event was called "Giving back to the Birthplace of Jazz". For all that this city has given not only to our country, but the WORLD by introducing Jazz, we should feel obligated to "give back" (in ANY capacity) to a city who really needs our help.

The Cajun/Zydeco band, Lagniappe, was the last band to take the stage. Robin White was the keynote speaker and gave a very thought-provoking speech on the New Orleans Native state of mind. Check out the pics I've included from last night's event.

I've said it before, but it rings SO true - Good music, good food, all for a good price - and for a GREAT cause. Thanks again to all who came down to the 20th Century to help make the service trip to New Orleans a good one! Until next time...

- jh