In this episode we dive into the electrifying world of guitarist Oz Noy, discussing his unique blend of funk, jazz, and blues. Noy shares the story behind his latest project, Triple Play, an album recorded at Stages Music Arts in Maryland after a series of tours with his band. "I called the guys like, hey, let's do this record really quick before, you know, it goes away," Noy recalls. They delve into his songwriting process, where he seamlessly combines genres by writing over grooves he loves, turning intricate concepts into cohesive masterpieces. Steve and Noy also explore the impact of Noy's collaborations with iconic musicians like Eric Johnson and Keith Carlock. Oz emphasizes how working with different artists influences his sound and drives his creativity. "The way Keith Carlock plays, for example, influenced me to write a certain way," he says. Noy highlights the importance of distinct guitar choices based on his collaborators, ensuring a varied and rich sound. Discussing the track "Chocolate Soufflé," Noy reveals its long creative journey, dating back to his early days in New York, and how reworking old ideas leads to fresh, compelling music. Looking forward, Noy teases exciting new projects, including a collaboration with sitar virtuoso Purbayan Chatterjee and an upcoming jazz album for the Dutch record company Criss Cross. He reflects on the importance of live performances in his career, describing them as vital for keeping music alive. Noy shares his excitement for upcoming shows in the Bay Area, promising fans a mix of his greatest hits and new material. "I'm just trying to make sure that it's interesting to me," underscoring his constant pursuit of musical growth and innovation.

Groove Master Oz Noy: How a Guitar Virtuoso Blends Funk, Jazz, and Blues into a Unique Musical Landscape

PopCulture

The Grammy-winner is remembered for his work with Snarky Puppy and Kirk Franklin.

Grammy Winning Musician Dies After Suffering Stroke in 2023: Shaun Martin Was 45

Los Angeles County, CA

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Herbie J Pilato

Actor Van Johnson, who died in 2007, was one of Hollywood's ideal films idols. In the 1940s, the charming screen icon was box office gold, and remained a popular presence on TV in shows like Murder, She Wrote (which starred his good friend Angela Lansbury).

The Secret Gay Life & Horrific Car Accident of Actor Van Johnson: 16 Years After His Tragic Death

New York City, NY

Fellow geezers might remember how, in an item describing the atmosphere at New York City's fabled Rainbow Room, The New Yorker's Goings On About Town section sniffed "where a club soda costs about ten dollars," or words to that effect. The Rockefeller Center boîte is no longer open to the public and the Goings On section has lost its last two words and most of its content, but fret not. Gotham glamour is alive and well in the hands of pianist Bill Charlap's peerless trio. Nothing can evoke the swank of Old New York like Gershwin, and Charlap and his longtime mates, bassist Peter Washington and drummer Kenny Washington show how it's done with four perfect choruses of "The Man I Love," briskly swung and perfectly rendered. And Then Again (Blue Note Records, 2024) is a live recording from the Village Vanguard, a very different sort of room than its Midtown counterpart, but no less an icon of New Yorkishness. As if to tie a bow on the concept, Charlap wryly quotes the iconic big tune from "Rhapsody In Blue" in his tag. I love a Gershwin tune. How about you?

Bill Charlap Trio: The Man I Love

Trumpeter and flugelhornist Feya Faku is recognized for his contributions to jazz and has built a significant international presence, collaborating with prominent musicians and participating in prestigious festivals worldwide. His latest project Inkumbulo (Reminiscence) is a celebration of this journey of allyship, marking 20 years of the South African / Swiss Exchange program, a creative cross-pollination including paying tribute to his loved ones.

Inkumbulo With Trumpeter And Flugelhorn Player Feya Faku

From the mind of veteran musician Leigh Pilzer, we get right into the 869th Episode of Neon Jazz. With her Seven Pointed Star, we hear the title track off her 2024 album called Beatin' the Odds. From there, we journey around a stellar line up of veterans with new albums in 2024 with Julieta Eugenio, Natalie Jacob, Alexis Cole and Warren Wolf. In betwixt, we hear from legends like Count Basie, Sonny Rollins, Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. Veteran Eric Jacobson finishes all of is off with an appropriate tune and title track off his 2024 album Heading Home. Dig the tasty jazz, my friends.

Warren Wolf, Alexis Cole, Sonny Rollins and Leigh Pilzer

Luiz Millan's new single, "Madrugada", is a beautiful ballad featuring gorgeous performances by two living legends of contemporary jazz: clarinet virtuoso Eddie Daniels and vibraphone master Mike Mainieri. Produced by Arnaldo DeSouteiro and arranged by Michel Freidenson. Personnel. Date featured. This song appears by permission of the contributing artist and/or...

Madrugada (featuring Eddie Daniels & Mike Mainieri) by Luiz Millan

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Julie Gaeta

It was 8:30 at night — it seemed like my husband’s work hours were stretching longer and longer. Taking in a long, deep breath I bit the inside of my cheek. Frustrated with his ongoing lack of presence, I pulled out my phone to call him, wanting to know why he still wasn’t home.

The Lie He Hid From Me (and Our 9 Children) For Over A Year

Energy and enthusiasm fairly leap from the speakers—or headphones—on Sharel Cassity's daring "Call to Order," the opening number on Korean-born saxophonist Jordan VanHemert's fifth album as leader, Deep in the Soil. Alas, that same ardor doesn't reappear until track seven (of eight), trombonist Michael Dease's boppish "ST in the House." In between, VanHemert and his companions (group sizes vary from sextet to duo) offer some agreeable music but nothing that approaches the ebullience or cogency of the themes already named.

Jordan VanHemert: Deep in the Soil

New music from Saxophonist Bill Evans, british band Lydian Collective, The Fearless Flyers, and Finnish guitarist Varre Vartianen with special guest Mike Stern. Australian guitarist Josh Meader, Daniel Weiss, Roman Bondarenko, Antoine Fafard, Gavin Harrison and Danish guitarist Soren Lee. Playlist. Bill Evans "Camel Strut" from Who I Am (Vansman)...

New music with Bill Evans, Lydian Collective, Ron Bosse and Josh Meader

NewsNinja

A vegetarian Chipotle customer said a worker added meat to her bowl—despite her asking for no protein—and refused to remake the order. Her video sparked outrage in the comments section and amassed over 190,000 views before it was removed from the platform.

‘I don’t eat meat: Woman says Chipotle worker refused to remake her bowl after putting meat in it.

Declutterbuzz

Overwhelm is a word I often hear folks say regarding decluttering. Decluttering does not have to be overwhelming. When you Declutter For Life the process is not stressful. You won't clear the chaos overnight, but with patience and effort, you can build a space—and a life—that feels calm and organized. For busy young working moms who've tried and failed, understanding that decluttering is a gradual process rather than a quick fix can change everything. Let me explain.

How To Declutter For Life, Not For a Quick Fix!

Holiday Soirée features the dynamic vocals of Courtney Lemmon, Gina Saputo, and Crystal Starr, whose voices weave together like a cozy winter scarf, wrapping listeners in warmth and cheer. Jazz & Blues Revue Featuring George Kahn Unveils Holiday Magic with New Album “Holiday Soirée”. Los Angeles, CA...

Jazz & Blues Revue Featuring George Kahn Unveils Holiday Magic With New Album 'Holiday Soirée'

It's been two decades since beloved actor Brian Kelly died of pneumonia at 73 in 2005. Best known as Porter Ricks in the classic TV family show Flipper(NBC, 1964-1967), Kelly had once suffered a paralyzing motorcycle accident that ended his acting career. However, he rechanneld his creative talent and became a producer. This is his story.

The Paralyzing Accident & Tragic Death of TV's 'Flipper' Father Brian Kelly: Two Decades Later

Among the most welcome jazz events of 2024 is the return to active duty of the great British saxophonist Larry Stabbins following an absence of over a decade. Stabbins went into voluntary exile in 2013, after around thirty-five years at the deep end of British jazz. Disenchanted with the culturally regressive direction in which the music and its ecology seemed to be heading, he even went so far as selling his tenor. But things change, and towards the end of the 2010s Stabbins took heart from the musically and politically progressive young players who were emerging in numbers approaching critical mass. In summer 2024 he announced his return with the electronica-infused post-genre album Strangeness Oscillation (Noetic), reviewed here.

Tony Oxley Quintet: Angular Apron

Jason Stein would never in a million years characterize Anchors as his variation of A Love Supreme (Impulse!, 1965). But a comparison can be made. John Coltrane's quartet recording was the most personal and profound statement of his career. The same can be said for Stein and Anchors. He had taken time off from recording and performing due to some chronic pain that plagued him. Stein set about diving deeply into the body, studying massage, specifically trigger point therapy, practicing breathing techniques, and taking cold water plunges. One suspects Wim Hof may have been involved by some means in Stein's journey and transformation.

Jason Stein: Anchors

The roots of the intriguing quintet of tracks that make up Lagos Paris London date back to 2016, when Foals frontman Yannis Philippakis met legendary Nigerian drummer Tony Allen. The two became friends, and sessions ensued in a Parisian studio not only with Allen but with his band – percussionist Vincent Taeger, keyboard player Vincent Taurelle and bassist/guitarist Ludovic Bruni. Left unfinished when lockdown arrived, the sessions were brought to a tragic full stop in the form of Allen’s passing in April 2020. Philippakis resolved to finish the work, and the result was a cohesive EP looking far beyond the Afrobeat record Yannis originally expected. So inspiring was the collaboration that Yannis & The Yaw was established as a permanent concern, where…

Yannis & The Yaw – Lagos Paris London EP (2024)

Motown, a name synonymous with soulful rhythms and timeless melodies, has left an indelible mark on the landscape of popular music. Founded in Detroit by Berry Gordy in 1959, Motown Records became a powerhouse, shaping the sound of the 1960s and beyond with its unique blend of pop, R&B, and soul. The label’s influence extended far beyond the music charts, playing a pivotal role in breaking down racial barriers in the music industry and bringing African American artists to the forefront of American culture. From the smooth harmonies of The Supremes to the raw emotion of Marvin Gaye, Motown produced countless hits that have stood the test of time. In this article, we’ll explore the top 15 most popular Motown songs of all time—tracks that not only defined an era but also continue to inspire new generations of artists and listeners. These songs, with their infectious beats, memorable lyrics, and unforgettable performances, are the epitome of the Motown sound, showcasing the label’s unparalleled ability to blend innovation with mass appeal. Join us as we celebrate the very best of Motown, a musical legacy that remains as vibrant today as ever.

15 Best Motown Songs of All Time

Charleston, SC

Grammy Award winning artist to headline “Home For The Holidays” concert. The Charleston Gaillard Center has announced that Peabo Bryson will be the featured perform at its Home for the Holidays starring concert, which will take place on December 15, 2024. The show will also feature Ruben Studdard and Hailey Reinhart.

Peabo Bryson to perform at the Gaillard Center

Plymouth, MA

Dianna Carney

The Plymouth Public Library Foundation has announced the return of its Annual Arts and Crafts Festival, a two-day celebration that promises to be a highlight of the summer season. Set to take place on the scenic Plymouth Public Library Lawn, the festival will run from 10 AM to 4 PM on both Saturday, August 10th, and Sunday, August 11th. This family-friendly event is designed to offer something for everyone, making it a perfect outing for people of all ages.

50+ Artisans, Food Trucks & More: Get Ready For The 5th Annual Arts and Crafts Festival

NewsBreak

Newly Formed Meanjin Hard Bop Ensemble Méva's Journal Announces Joining 4000 Records And The Release Of Their Debut Album

It's great to hear an album of intense hard bop coming out of Meanjin's JMI stable of recruits. This scene has been brewing for a long...

Newly Formed Meanjin Hard Bop Ensemble Méva's Journal Announces Joining 4000 Records And The Release Of Their Debut Album

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