Talking Smooth Jazz

Not one to be quiet about making an entrance, producer/keyboardist Nate Harasim's Trippin N' Rhythm label debut, is one sure to place him firmly in the new class and crop of emerging talent, highlighted by a cameo vocal performance from young Maxine Hardcastle daughter of mega-hit maker Paul Hardcastle.

With Harasim's upcoming 30 minute performance showcase on Fox news Detroit, writing and producing the theme song for the 2010 American Smooth Jazz Awards and coming off an 8 week run at #1 on the National radio charts with 'Fun In The Sun,' a track he produced for guitarist Steve Oliver, the media and radio in unison, have taken notice of his burgeoning talent. Rush highlights the many sides of a young man with a keen ear, serious chops, strong pop sensibilities and displays his break out of the box mentality and his willingness to the push the envelope.

With assists from label mates Cindy Bradley and Darren Rahn and a payback from Steve Oliver, Rush is a soulful, fresh and funky ride through 11 sparkling sides, yet one that as the title suggests, you won't want to rush through but take your time to savor the journey.

Urban Jazz Coalition is one of the hottest new contemporary jazz groups to come onto the scene in some time, and they have created a major buzz on the national festival circuit over the past few years. We welcome them to talk about their lastest project, Gravitate.

Straight Up with a Twist may be Kristine W’s first official jazz recording, but jazz has been one of the singer’s greatest passions since early childhood. Growing up in Tri-Cities, Washington, her grandmother, a pianist, classical violinist and guitarist, exposed her to singers like Ella Fitzgerald and Carmen McRae. We welcome Kristine to discuss her debut jazz project, Straight Up with a Twist.

Wayman Tisdale's "The Fonk Record" is the final record Wayman Tisdale recorded before his death in 2009. Join us for a special two-hour show featuring "The Fonk Record" with special guests, Mrs. Regina Tisdale and producer Derek Allen. Get ready y'all for the purest funk there is! The Fonk Record is sooooooooo good, hella fonky and Wayman is HILARIOUS!!!!

Kevin Whalum's "One Life to Love" takes you back to the groove…takes you back to the days when music was SAYING something to you while you bobbed your head. Not BEAT-driven, but GROOVE-driven, this CD was produced by George Duke & Rex Rideout.

Saxophonist Phil Denny, has a long history of performing in the Mid-West as the front man and founder of the Lansing, MI based group, Too Smooth For Notes. For the last several years, Phil has been developing and honing in on his individuality on the sax while cultivating a diverse fan base and building an impressive resume. Having played with notable artists including Kirk Whalum, Tim Bowman, Gail Jhonson, Lalah Hathaway, Orrick Ewing and even had a memorable jam session with Stevie Wonder. Phil began playing the saxophone at age 12 as part of the public school band program and knew early on that music would most certainly be a life-long interest. Recently, music has become a way of life as Phil stepped down as vice president for a mortgage brokerage company after 7 years of service the industry. Phil has been known for his engaging live performances and command while on stage. In July, Phil released his first single "Sway Back" from his highly anticipated debut album "Urgings of Soul" expected to be released later this year. If you have not heard Phil live and in action, be sure to witness for yourself soon.

Nils’ success in the smooth jazz genre has somewhat obscured his dynamic background as a

versatile R&B/pop guitarist. Nils' latest Release, What The Funk?, features Ricky Lawson on drums, Alex Al and Reggie McBride on bass, Oliver Brown on percusion and Clydene Jsackson on keyboards and vocals.