July 23, 2012
By: Laura G. Thorne
Though considered a contemporary or smooth jazz artist – in 2010, Billboard Magazine named James “The Number 3 Top Contemporary Jazz Artist of the Decade” – Boney James says he has never thought of himself as a jazz artist, specifically. He cites legendary producer Quincy Jones as a major inspiration, and also says he’s long been influenced by contemporary R&B. Says James, “I always try to make sure my records possess integrity. I make Boney …
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July 19, 2012
By: Brandon E. Roos
Excited to hear what Sting sounds like when arranged for a jazz quartet? Interested in learning about an overlooked crossover artist from the 1930’s? Want to hear a local interpretation of a Brazilian legend? Three sets this year aim to add to the legacy of well-established artists by re-interpreting their work for the Summer Fest stage. Just as popular songs are often re-worked by other musicians in jazz, these three artists feed into that spirit …
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July 18, 2012
By: Laura G. Thorne
Trumpet player, bandleader, composer and arranger Terence Blanchard is one of the most critically recognised players in jazz music today. A twelve-time Grammy nominee and five-time Grammy award recipient, Blanchard’s lush, cinematic writing style is at once timeless and yet entirely contemporary, with a tip of the hat to the ghosts of jazz greats past, but with a unique and haunting character that is 100% his own. Said Vanity Fair of Blanchard, “He plays the …
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July 13, 2012
By: Brandon E. Roos
Looking to take in some fabulous songstresses at this year’s Summer Fest? Our fantastic cast of vocalists feature locals and former internationals, teenagers and seasoned professionals, yet all further the lyrical tradition of past greats. Leading our list of distinguished vocalists is four-time Grammy® Winner Dianne Reeves, one of Summer Fest’s headliners. Regarded as one of the finest jazz singers of her time, Reeves’s respectable catalog all but guarantees that her set will be full of …
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July 9, 2012
By: Brandon E. Roos
Every year, San Jose Jazz strives to bring great international artists to San Jose for Summer Fest. This year is no different. They may come from as far away as Japan, Bulgaria, Argentina and Cuba, but their sounds, and stories, serve to continue the overall jazz and Latin music narrative. If you’re craving authentic Cuban sounds, look no further than Wil Campa, performing this year with his 13-piece orchestra Gran Union. Born and raised in …
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