Kirk Whalum Concert @ Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley
October 26, 2023
One of many Seattle-Based Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley favorites, Kirk Whalum, launched his annual appearance honoring numerous soul/R&B and jazz icons, saluting he music that fueled his birthplace, and showering gospel nuggets.
The multi-lingual, multi-genre People of Earth (PoE) introduce themselves on their self-titled CD
What happens when a multi-lingual ensemble comes together from several countries utilizing the power of timba music – a very intense percussive foundation which has deep musical history in Cuba bridging folk and other urban genres.
Marvin Gaye’s Greatest Hits Live In ˜76 is finally available on CD and vinyl
The superlatives and accolades are too numerous for one of Motown Records’ driving forces. As he transcended R&B and Soul music for over two decades, Marvin Gaye’s songwriting abilities embraced empowering love songs like “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” while addressing urgent social matters on “What’s Going On.”
Percussionist extraordinaire Alex Acuña takes a tour of his musical roots and more for his latest release, Gifts
Those who are go-to musicians are willing and able to utilize their skills to lead, enhance and be flexible in whatever musical environment that is set before them. Alex Acuña absolutely fits this description as a drummer/percussionist whose contributions defy any category.
Take Me to The River New Orleans showcases some of the best moments from one of the world’s musically passionate cities
In the documentary Take Me to The River: Memphis, filmmaker Martin Shore envisioned the city’s music’s powerful nuggets through the lens of an already seasoned musician. Several years later, Shore visits yet another musically potent landmark on Take Me to The River: New Orleans (NOLA) exploring the Big Easy’s resilience
Contemporary R&B singer/songwriter Cashma moves into her Purple Apartment, the final installment of the ‘Purple Series’
There are advantages for an artist in living as an introvert, to a point that they can release all those thoughts that have pressed them forever and a day. With a trilogy of her innermost journals dealing with the trials of family life, R&B singer/songwriter Cashma frees her mind of any emotion possible.
Sugaray Rayford genuinely preaches the blues along with plenty of hope on his upcoming release In Too Deep
Before receiving recognition on a national level, Sugaray Rayford already knew what his mission was – to invite all his audiences wherever the music would take them. The Texas born singer and entertainer has guided him as the front man for several bands, including The Mannish Boys who won The Best Traditional Blues Album in 2013.
Anthony Hamilton | “Love Is The New Black”
by Cheryl ‘Suitelady’ Dunlap
It has been about five years since we have heard from the self-proclaimed Country Boy, Anthony Hamilton. I was excited about the opportunity to review his new album. I found myself reminiscing on “My First Love”, “Point of All”, and “So In Love.”
Jazzman Tony Hightower continues the road to his future Legacy with his second release
When an artist dedicates their recorded labor of love for a beloved family member, especially one who was highly impactful in their musical aspirations, the feeling can be quite mutual. Singer/songwriter/musician Tony Hightower fully recognized his mother Theresa Hightower (who passed in 2018) made a world of difference – professionally and personally.
Stokley is going back and getting it with a vengeance after his solo introduction with Sankofa
Through a massively busy career as a session musician for Sounds of Blackness and Johnny Gill, amongst many others, then easing into a solo spotlight, Stokley is a consummate, multi-tasking musician.