Talking Smooth Jazz

Talking Smooth Jazz welcomes five time Grammy nominee for his extraordinary and seminal contributions to contemporary jazz, David Benoit. A pianist, composer and conductor, his career as a contemporary jazz pianist includes 23 solo recordings over the past 25 years. His new cd Earthglow is his first set of original material in four years.

Avenue H is an original four-some boasting the Northwest’s most creative, enjoyable music concocted from jazz, blues, Latin, Celtic, classical and even bluegrass influences. Though the band usually consists of a saxophonist, guitarist, bass guitarist and percussionist, they have the flexibility to expand to include a violinist and vocalist as well, in any combination. Infused with a passion for music, Avenue H’s high quality of musicianship delivers an alluring groove that has fans packing shows, asking for more.

In a career spanning nearly two decades, Rob Tardik has established himself as an award winning guitarist, successful teacher, entrepreneur, and now a rising instrumental music artist! His new cd, The Right Time, is a personal statement and glimpse into his life’s current musical direction, further showing the world his passion for life, music and the guitar.

The Groovemasters are four powerhouse musicians who have combined their diverse talents into an instrumental sensation that has generated immediate buzz. Deeply steeped in the jazz tradition, their music combines jazz, funk, R&B, Latin and more, and their wide-reaching appeal is grounded in one thing: Groove. It's the heartbeat - the soul - of every song, driving the enticing melodies and heavy improvisation that has everyone from jazz festival music lovers to club patrons wanting more.

Why is smooth jazz music being hit so hard by the industry? We will talk to Phil Tucker, a former program director/general manager of Cincinnati's former smooth jazz station, to help the fans of this genre understand why. Mr. Tucker has 10 years experience in the field of broadcasting, broadcast education, internet broadcasting / marketing, and broadcast management. He is the program director of www.smoothjazz1480.com.

Talking Smooth Jazz welcomes Alan Hewitt to talk about his new album, Retroactive. Looking like Sonny Crocket on the cover, Retroactive features Greg Adams, Paul Jackson, Jr., Steve Oliver and Steve Madaio.

Andrew Neu is one of the most exciting, multi-genre musicians today. Now, in his third solo CD release, it is indeed time for the world to “Try Something Neu.” Try Something Neu is packed with a colossal group of stellar all-stars that includes Bobby Caldwell, Brian Bromberg, Chuck Loeb, Brian Culbertson and Gerald Veasley. By blending a unique mix of jazz, R&B, classical and Latin music, Andrew Neu delivers a fresh sound to the contemporary music scene.

The Houston Chronicle described Gianna as having "The Look Of A Star In The Making." Her debut cd, Something True, was produced by R&B/smooth jazz duo Kloud 9. Welling's sound is inspired by Anita Baker, Sade, Sting, India Arie, Stevie Wonder and Lisa Stansfield. We welcome Gianna to Talking Smooth Jazz to talk about her debut cd and collaboration with Kloud 9.

Angela "Angei" Workman is known as the Funk Balladtress. She has encompassed stages all over the world, touring with legends such as: Ray Charles; Ben E. King; and B.B. King. She has performed and recorded vocals for artists such as: Eminem; Prince; George Clinton; Stevie Wonder; Kelly Clarkson; and Patti LaBelle. Angei has been featured on "CBS 60 Minutes," performing for "Songs of Love," and organization that creates personalized songs for critically ill children.

Talking Smooth Jazz welcomes Angela to talk about her debut CD, "Moonflower," with famed Spyro Gyra keyboardist, Tom Shuman.

Pamela Williams: Dubbed "the Saxtress" after the title of her debut record, Pamela Williams is undoubtedly, one of the most popular performers on today's smooth jazz scene. A multi-talented artist who plays flute as well as a little piano, Williams made her solo debut in 1996 with The Saxtress, an album that immediately brought her name into the limelight. We will talk to Pamela about her new cd,Chameleon.