May 14, 2014
Greg Abate
LABEL: Whaling City Sound
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YouTube: “Bebop” w/ Jake Fryer, Wakefield Jazz, GoLocal LIVE, Rhode Island Music Hall of Fame, Taos BeBop Assoc.,Solo On Alto, Live in Boston, Sample Video, Live at Narrows Center
“With the maestro’s passing, the legacy of Phil’s music becomes even more treasured. He is in great form here with Greg, one of his many followers whose work he has greatly influenced, more than holding his own. This is an historic recording.” ~David Liebman
Press Release
Publicity: Telegram&Gazette Jazz Journal Yorkshire Times Bebop Spoken Here The Independent Broadway World Cabaret, All About Jazz, O’s Place, ProJo, Norwich Bulletin, CapeCod.com, Midweek Herald, Wakefield Express (UK), Blu Jazz+, aNews Cafe.com, Herald Dispatch, BroadwayWorld Boston. Jazz Quad, North Wales Pioneer (UK), Daily Post, Jazz @ Future Inn, Jazz Weekly, All About Jazz, GoLocalProv, Midwest Book Review (Wisconsin Bookwatch)Improvijazzation Nation,Newport This Week,Jazz New England, The Taos News,Herald Express, Music Web International, Courant Community, Southern Rhode Island Newpapers, Papatamus, JazzTimes, Freedom Talk Radio, Ohio.com, GoLocalProv, Woonsocket Call, Akron Beacon Journal, Downbeat,Warwick Beacon Review, Motif Magazine, Interview with Jazz New England, Jazz Journal, Torquay Herald Express (UK), Dick Keogh(fan), Ken Franckling’s Jazz notes, All About Jazz, Jazz-квадрат, (click for English translation), Warwick Beacon, The Herald News, Jazz Depot (OK), Providence Journal, South Wales Evening Post, The Guardian, North Hampton Chronicle, EditorialsTaosNews, North Hampton Chronicles, Guardian Series, WhatsupNewp
Radio:
WVXU, KMUW 98.1
Click here for the full article
Gratitude: Stage Door LIVE@TheZ
Greg Abate (Whaling City Sound)
by Ken Dryden
The New York City Jazz Record
There are many players who are so recognized for their work on one instrument that the public is often unaware that they play several more. Greg Abate has been primarily heard on alto saxophone throughout his career, but for this live recording, his fourth both for Whaling City Sound and with pianist Tim Ray’s trio with bassist John Lockwood and drummer Mark Walker, he decided also to feature himself on tenor and baritone saxophones and flute. The time that the musicians have spent together as a unit shows in the solid performances throughout this live set, most of which focuses on Abate’s potent originals.
Things start with his engaging bossa nova “Gratitude”, each member showcased in turn. When the leader is playing bop tunes, the influence of jazz master Phil Woods is present; though he is by no means a clone, it is his execution and wealth of ideas that invite comparison to the late alto saxophonist, whom he admired greatly. The feeling is especially present in “Bop Lives” and his heartfelt tribute “Farewell Phil Woods”, the latter written as a ballad but performed here at a strolling tempo. The jazz waltz “Hazy Moon” is the first of two songs spotlighting Abate’s considerable chops on flute, darting lines incorporating Eric Dolphy-like detours in spots. His sole appearance on baritone is on his rapid-fire “In The Stratosphere” where his gritty sound recalls Pepper Adams.
Rahsaan Roland Kirk’s “Serenade To A Cuckoo” featured the composer on flute on the original, but Abate opts for tenor to give it a gruffer texture. Fats Waller’s “Jitterbug Waltz” is a trio number and Ray’s Caribbean-flavored treatment in the introduction is a surprising, novel approach; this performance never loses steam in spite of stretching out over nine minutes. Back on tenor, Abate devours Joe Henderson’s hard-charging signature piece “Inner Urge”, tackling it at a brisk tempo. The excellent recording gives the listener a front-and-center seat for musicians having a ball on stage.
GREG ABATE / CRAIG MILVERTON QUARTET
GREG’S GROOVE
Pianist Milverton is an activist, a maker and shaker in the jazz community who in the past organized a jazz festival and now sets up tours and travels far and wide to play. Explore is his label. Even more of note, he’s a resourceful player who can ignite a session and command attention.
He doesn’t seem to know how to play a dull set. His collaboration with tenorist Fowler and guitarist Ashworth is sub-titled The Music of Bebop Genius Tadd Dameron and takes a very agreeable look at fifteen of the late composer’s works. Of course, the familiar pieces like Good Bait, The Squirrel and Our Delight are here and are given their swinging due but the added pleasure is in hearing these distinctive players handle other less-heard Dameron compositions. And how rewarding they are. Fowler is truly our premier mainstream tenor man, with something of Scott Hamilton’s relaxed approach and warm sound, who always knows how to build and shape a solo. To the band’s credit, they don’t seek to replicate the classic versions of these key pieces, rather they set up a series of free-flowing quintet accounts of their own, bassist Al Swainger and drummer Nick Millward finding the right groove every time. Just to hear them push on Hot House or The Squirrel with Milverton flying is to understand why Digby Fairweather called this album ‘a treasury of excellence’ and he’s right. Anyway, any chance to hear Ashworth at length is not to be missed. Milverton and US altoist Greg Abate are often on tour together and I heard them yet again at this Swanage festival and damn good they were. Abate is bebop personified, his alto as passionate and fiery as ever: Parker is in there obviously as is Phil Woods, this given added point by the inclusion of Abate’s original Farewell Phil Woods (the album was made in 2015). His tone is warmer, more rounded and less bluesy than Cannonball, say, but there’s no doubting the verve and sheer class he exudes whether as a ballad player or a tear-up type. Abate records often: this collaboration with Milverton ranks high among his recent achievements.
click here to read the full review
click here or the above image to listen!
click above cover to sample songs
Greg featured on NBC 10’s Coffee Break with Frank Coletta!
Click here to watch Greg on Coffee Break!
click here for more information
On his four recordings with the Tim Ray Trio, all on Whaling City Sound, Greg Abate finds himself on an endless quest for the true essence of jazz. Throughout this exploration, Abate, a massive talent, acquits himself as energetic, creative, and exhilarating
Which is why it’s such a treat to listen to his latest work with the Tim Ray Trio, Gratitude: Stage Door Live @ The Z. On stage, Abate is a force, a paragon of power and passion. Offstage, Abate is experienced, and a student of jazz. Live, he wrests control of the form, a force majeure, and proves that few in the jazz vernacular today can keep pace with him.
The album itself is a joy. With no formal rehearsals, and subsequently, no overdubs, mulligans, and re-do’s, the band captures its performance in truth, in full, and in the moment. With the seasoned support of Ray (piano), John Lockwood (bass) and Mark Walker (drums), Abate and his various horns (alto, tenor and baritone saxes, as well as flute) cruise through a slate of mainly originals, along with Joe Henderson’s “Inner Urge” and Roland Kirk’s “Serenade to a Cuckoo,” done here on tenor sax rather than the customary flute. “Dracula” spotlights Abate, Ray, and Walker, in that order, in a concise span of five minutes. In all, the performances are loose and fun without being casual. These guys are, after all, some of the best on the scene.
The intimacy of the venue also helped propel the session. The Zeiterion Theater is a stellar place and allows the band to stretch out. Ray’s version of Waller’s “Jitterbug Waltz” is a ten-minute blast, with rollicking passages interspersed with Lockwood and Walker each stepping into the spotlight.
Capturing the live energy is a difficult task, especially in jazz, where the frequencies are so varied. But the session, recorded and mixed by John Mailloux, is superb.
Abate is one of the hardest working men in jazz. Every year, when it seems like it might be time to slow it down, Abate revs it up, booking more shows, more clinics, and teaching more classes. He jet sets it when necessary, making repeated trips overseas to find his audiences. For now, he’s left us with the incendiary Gratitude: Stage Door Live @ The Z a postcard from the road, sent with the heat, beauty, and passion of genuine bebop.
Greg Abate Sextet Live at Chan’s Jan 26. 8p
Podcast: A conversation with International Jazz Artist Greg Abate
Greg Abate, who is listed in Downbeat Magazine’s latest critics poll as among jazz music’s top rising stars, brings his uptown jazz quintet for a high powered night of music at the Newport Playhouse, Thursday, August 2.
Known for his straight-ahead jazz and bee-bop style, Abate’s performance is part of Bridgefest, linking the folk and jazz festivals, and comes on the eve of the opening of the Newport Jazz Festival. It’s a great way to get a jump start on a jazz-filled weekend.
Abate, a prolific and accomplished songwriter, who performs more than 200 concerts a year worldwide, is third of 20 in Downbeat’s critics poll “Rising Star Alto Sax.” The poll appears in the magazine’s August edition. Last year, he also finished third in “Rising Star Alto” and in 2013 was 12th as “Best Alto Sax.” Besides Abate, the quintet includes Phil Grenadier (trumpet), Matt DeChamplain (piano), Paul Del Nero (bass) and Luther Gray (drums).
Abate, joined What’sUpNewp’s Frank Prosnitz on this edition of The Open Forum on AM 1540 WADK.
LISTEN
6/11: Greg Abate featured in MUSIC ON MONDAYS Concert Series At Wellfleet Harbor Actors Theater Begins 6/4
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Monday, June 11, 8:00pmGreg Abate plays a night of Jazz & Latin music, accompanied by Fred Boyle on piano, Ron Ormsby on bass, and Bart Weisman on drums.
Greg Abate is a jazz saxophonist, flutist, composer, and International Jazz Recording Artist touring the globe 225 days per year. After finishing at the Berklee College Of Music, Greg played lead alto for the Ray Charles Orchestra for two years, then Greg formed his group Channel One which was a favorite in the New England area. Greg also played tenor sax with the Artie Shaw Orchestra. Following this experience, Greg ventured out as a soloist playing Jazz Festivals and Jazz Clubs throughout the U.S., Canada, Europe, UK, Moscow and Georgia Russia. Greg has recorded over 17 recordings as leader and his newest release is Kindred Spirits with Phil Woods and The Tim Ray Trio. Greg is an adjunct professor of Jazz Studies at Rhode Island College and is a very active jazz clinician with workshops and master classes throughout the U.S and abroad. Greg was inducted into the RI MUSIC HALL OF FAME in 2016. The Chicago Tribune says about Greg “…his fast-moving lines give his work a feeling of constant invention and creativity” and JazzTimes says about Greg, “The tunes he writes or chooses are based on the kinds of changes that harmony-oriented jazzmen have favored since the beginning and he swings through them with and eager and easy virtuosity.”
Peaked at #12 3/20/17
Listen on SoundCloud “Whaling City Sound”
Photos: Live at Wamsutta with band
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Mary Ann Rossoni captures Greg Abate performing in Jamestown with Kent Hewitt, Todd Baker, Gary Johnson!
Audience at the Swanage Jazz Festival!
Sunday 3/19/17 Greg Abate & Tim Ray Trio at Aria’s Lounge in Providence
Click images above for details.
Latest Album (Released 2/24):
Purchase here.
WCS 090 Road to Forever
Fluent in both saxophone and the great language of bebop, Greg Abate has done nothing if not worked tirelessly across five decades to keep the flame of classic jazz lit. In the hands of a skilled musician like Abate—who made his new record, Road to Forever, with Tim Ray’s trusty trio featuring Ray (piano), John Lockwood (bass) and Mark Walker (drums/percussion)—life and music intertwine on his saxophone. The sound of his brass is an extension of his heart, with no filter or contrivance. Abate’s emotions emerge in nearly every note. “I relate music to life as a parallel outlook,” says Abate in the liner notes of his new recording. “Like many artists, life and music are working together in us to bring out creative ideas.”
In fact, there are creative ideas across all of Road to Forever. “The Dancing Panda” has an agile, danceable groove and a slinky, sexy chord progression. “Farewell Phil Woods” is dedicated to Abate’s inimitable bandmate and collaborator, a talent the bandleader calls “a force of nature.” Abate’s alto sax, laid lightly atop Ray’s piano, resonates with a deep melancholia. But the blue mood is fleeting, as the next track, “Whaling City Sound,” boasts a chill, electric fusion of keys and bass that lifts the tempo with the trio’s inventive ideas.
Abate is a musician that is born to play, to create, to collaborate. He is the consummate sharer of the stage, who respects talent and ability and knows that a high tide lifts all boats. Indeed, Ray, Walker, and Lockwood elevate every project, and Abate provides them with a slate of perfect, largely straight-ahead, compositions for them to dig into. Recorded in a single session with virtually no rehearsals, Road to Forever is as pure as it gets, and a tribute to the power and glory of real bebop.
Papatamus
April 2016: Step right up folks lets see who has the last recording PHIL WOODS [as] made before he died. The January 2016 Papatamus covered 2, one on chiaroscuro from 6/13 and one from Deer Head Records from 11/10/14 (Woods died 9/29/15 and he was active almost up to that date). Now Whaling City Sound has issued a double CD, KINDRED SPIRITS LIVE AT CHAN’S [WCS 077], with WOODS, GREG ABATE [as/ss], Tim Ray [p], John Lockwood [b], and Mark Walker [drm]. The 2 sets [2:04:02] here were recorded 8/11/14 and as one might suspect it is yet another fine Woods date spurned on by another front line saxman. I did not realize how close in sound Abate was to Woods and I would have guessed my ear could have picked out one from another but I could not always. Fortunately Whaling City has provided help in identifying who is playing when. Oddly, Whaling City has chosen to put intros and some stage gab at the end of each disc and here there is no doubt whose voice is whose. What is not a surprise is how good the music is as both saxmen have good track records; Abate continuing his and Woods strong to the last moment. 13 standards and some chatter familiar and fine.
Review of Greg’s performance on June 4th at the Iron Horse Music Hall:
“Wow–you hadda be there to believe it. Greg Abate absolutely destroyed The Iron Horse Music Hall last night. With monster drummer Steve Langone and Georgie The Kaye on bass and Stephen Page on piano, truly a night to remember.” ~Michael and The Joint
Motif Magazine celebrates the best in local music!
Tuesday May 3
Door open at 6 – show starts at 6:30
The Live Phil/Greg Album Received 4 Stars From DownBeat!
Kindred Spirits: Live at Chan’s/Greg Abate & Phil Woods+Tim Ray Trio
JazzWeek peaked at #28 2/8/16
(click to enlarge)
United Kingdom
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United Kingdom’s Magazine Jazz Journal
features a nice review of Abate’s work.
Greg Abate & Phil Woods
“Kindred Spirits Live at Chan’s,” one of the last of Phil Woods’ live recordings, with Prince of Be Bop, Greg Abate, featuring world class, all stars Mark Walker-drums, John Lockwood-bass, & Tim Ray-piano
Live at Chan’s: Dedicated to Phil Woods
Greg Abate and the Tim Ray Trio performed music from the new album “Kindred Spirits, Live at Chan’s” on Saturday, October 3rd.
for a clip from the show click the link above!
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American Be-bop saxophonist Greg Abate featured on Torquay Herald Express
(Click here to read more)
Free Wheelin’ Jazz Safari features Greg Abate’s “Motif” as Jazz Album of the day!
Whaling City Sounds’ “Motif”
by Greg Abate Quartet
Climbs up to #10 on JazzWeek charts
“Coming soon…CDs due in next week. Radio already requesting promo!”
Sax Under the Bridge:
Greg Abate Quartet and
The Dave Liebman Group”Expansions”
At The Narrows
Fall River’s Narrows Center for the Arts and CD label Whaling City Sound present sax road warriors Dave Liebman and Greg Abate and their respective new bands on the same night, Thursday, Oct. 9 at the Narrows Center, starting at 8 pm. Both jazz veterans will be featuring music from their new Whaling City CD releases.
Greg Abate resides in Rhode Island, but spends very little time there. He tours, performs to sold-out crowds and records all over the world. The list of band mates on his many CDs as a leader reads like a who’s who of jazz masters, including pianists Kenny Barron and the late James Williams, saxophonists Phil Woods, Richie Cole and trumpeter Claudio Roditi. His latest band includes a dream trio of giants based in the Boston area. Pianist Tim Ray spend several years with Lyle Lovett, has shared the stage with Aretha and Bonnie Raitt, among others, and has had at New England Conservatory and Harvard. He is currently at Berklee College.
Bassist John Lockwood has appeared on many recordings, is an anchor of the longtime jazz juggernaut The Fringe (with George Garzone and Bob Gilotti), and is featured on not less than six previous Whaling City releases. His impeccable taste, rock solid rhythmic drive and the famous Lockwood bounce elevate any performance, live or recorded, on which he is present.
Drummer Mark Walker is a multi-Grammy winner and Berklee professor. A mainstay behind Carribean Jazz Project and Paquito de Rivera, Walker has a remarkable following in the Latin jazz arena. As part of this group, Walker shows he can also contribute handily in be-bop and swing settings. When he performs, you can usually tell who the drummers are in audience; they are the ones with their jaws dropping.
Following the death of longtime jazz innovator and icon John Coltrane, his longtime drummer Elvin Jones tapped Dave Liebman for Elvin’s band and subsequent recording. Lieb also toured and recorded with Miles Davis shortly after the release of “On The Corner.” Lieb has over 200 CDs as a leader or co-leader and appears on 300 more. After maintaining his own solid band for over 20 years, Liebman is now launching a new group, Expansions, with his breakthrough Samsara CD. Never one to rest on his laurels or the music from his significant past, Liebman remains a spiritual and musical leader for younger and older musicians who want to forge their own paths rather than follow. As Dave says of his latest group and music, “the direction is eclectic…with an emphasis on free collective improvising, along with rhythmic/harmonic devices that have become so prevalent…explored by the new generation, who, like their predecessors, have changed the jazz language.”
Rounding out the band are newcomers and veterans alike: saxophonist Matt Vashlishan, pianist Bobby Avey, bassist Tony Marino and drummer Alex Ritz.
For more information on Greg Abate
For more information on Dave Liebman
GREG ABATE Quartet – Performed Sept 19th
Greg Abate jazz saxophonist, flutist, composer continues as an International Jazz/Recording Artist with 225 days a year touring the globe. In the mid 70’s after finishing a four year program at Berklee College Of Music, Greg played lead alto for the Ray Charles Orchestra for 2 years.
Greg was joined by the incomparable talents of Kent Hewitt on piano, Harvie S on bass and Bill Goodwin on drums!
In 1978 Greg formed his group Channel One which was a favorite in the New England area and from there had the opportunity to play tenor sax with the revived Artie Shaw Orchestra under leadership of Dick Johnson from 1986 to ’87. Following this experience Greg ventured out as post hard bop soloist playing Jazz Festivals, Jazz Societies and Jazz Clubs throughout the U.S. Canada and abroad, including most of Europe, UK, and Moscow and Georgia Russia.
Greg is also an adjunct professor of Jazz Studies at Rhode Island College and is also a very active jazz clinician with co. sponsorship from the Conn -Selmer Instrument Co., conducting workshops and master classes through the U.S and abroad. For more artist details visit: www.gregabate.com
What some say about Greg Abate: Abate is not content to rely on stock bebop riffs and standard chord progressions. Rather, the sharp angularity of his phrases and the often startling pauses in his fast-moving lines give his work a feeling of constant invention and creativity.” –Howard Reich, Chicago Tribune.
A Jazz Gemini Birthday Celebration!
Took place on Saturday, May 31st:
Chan’s Eggrolls and Jazz presents “A Greg Abate Quintet Gemini Birthday Bash” celebrated John Chan and Greg Abate’s birthday! Jazz music was flowing with Greg on alto sax and flute, Gary Smulyan baritone sax, John Lockwood bass, Tim Ray piano, and Mark Walker drums.
Greg Abate and Band
4/23: Greg Abate @Wamsutta Club to Benefit the YWCA
Be-Bop Road Warrior Greg Abate and His Quartet Made Rare New Bedford Stop at the Wamsutta Club to Benefit the YWCA
Two days after this performance, Mr. Abate and the same band head into the studio to record the music they will be premiering at the Wamsutta. This is a rare chance to hear a top-notch, all-star jazz group explore original music written for this moment, and which has not previously been played.
Although Mr. Abate is based in Rhode Island for many years, there is no telling where you might run into him, or better yet, catch his inspired performances. He is a regular at festivals, clinics, clubs and universities all over the world. His impressive body of recorded CDs showcases Greg with many of jazz’s legends in the rhythm section or as guest horn-players, so often so that you can count on it. Kenny Barron, Mark Soskin, Rufus Reid, Harvie S, Bill Miele, Paul Del Nero, Paul Nagel and others are just a few of those who can be heard on Greg’s recordings.
Keyboard wizard, composer and educator Tim Ray is the leader of the “chamber jazz” group Tre Corda, but that does not keep him from performances at places like the White House and Carnegie Hall, or on TV shows like the “Tonight Show” and “Letterman.” Recently Tim was part of this same rhythm section at Scullers in Boston with Greg’s baritone-heavy sextet. Currently on the faculty of Berklee College, Tim has taught at all of the major colleges, universities and conservatories in Boston.
John Lockwood has performed at the Wamsutta Club many times as one of the anchors and treasures of guitarist John Stein’s Quartet over the last 5+ years. If Mr. Lockwood is in the band, it is understood that the level of the music just went up a few gears.
Behind the drums for this evening is master drummer Mark Walker. A major contributor to the success of the bands Oregon and the Caribbean Jazz Project, Mark was a long-time member of Paquito D’Rivera’s touring group. He is a Grammy winner, and also teaches at Berklee College in Boston.
JANUARY RELEASE:
“Kindred Spirits Live at Chan’s,” one of the last of Phil Woods’ live recordings, with Prince of Be Bop, Greg Abate, featuring world class, all stars Mark Walker-drums, John Lockwood-bass, & Tim Ray-piano
Greg Abate
Info link: <http://bit.ly/1qi4pfv>http://bit.ly/1qi4pfv
“Motif”: <http://bit.ly/1lrO5Jy>http://bit.ly/1lrO5Jy
<http://bit.ly/1sjwt60>Phil Woods and the Greg Abate Quartet
Saxophonist (and sometime clarinetist) Phil Woods is a cherished jazz legend. He is a highly revered musician, composer and arranger, who has been fronting his own small and big band groups since the 1950s.
Woods is a four-time GRAMMY winner and has won countless other awards, including: National Endowment for the Arts Jazz Master Fellowship: 2007, President’s Merit Award from the Grammy Foundation: 2007, Kennedy Center Living Legends in Jazz Award: 2007.
Saxophonist Greg Abate has been a mainstay on the New England jazz scene for many years, but is also in high demand at festivals and jazz clubs worldwide. Greg is known for inviting other saxophone greats to share the stage with him, such as baritone saxophonist Gary Smulyan and jazz legend/NEA Jazz Master, Phil Woods.
Respected Chicago Tribute jazz writer Howard Reich had this to say about Abate’s playing:
“Abate is not content to rely on stock bebop riffs and standard chord progressions. Rather, the sharp angularity of his phrases and the often startling pauses in his fast-moving lines give his work a feeling of constant invention and creativity.”
Joining Woods and Abate: pianist Tim Ray, bassist John Lockwood and drummer Mark Walker. A
Phil Woods/Greg Abate front line coupled with a driving rhythm section is a recipe for an exciting and unforgettable evening of music!
<http://bit.ly/1sjwt60>Greg Abate Sextet
Live at Chan’s: Dedicated to Phil Woods
Greg Abate and the Tim Ray Trio performed music from the new album “Kindred Spirits, Live at Chan’s” on Saturday, October 3rd.
for a clip from the show click the link above!
______________________________________
American Be-bop saxophonist Greg Abate featured on Torquay Herald Express
(Click here to read more)
Free Wheelin’ Jazz Safari features Greg Abate’s “Motif” as Jazz Album of the day!
Whaling City Sounds’ “Motif”by Greg Abate Quartet
Climbs up to #10 on JazzWeek charts
Motif by Greg Abate Quartet
Peaked at #10 12/22/14 JazzWeek
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CD RELEASE 10/14/14
What’s in a Name?
Greg Abate’s fresh new Motif
Speaks volumes about playing great bebop
Motif might be the title of Greg Abate’s new album, but it could just as easily, and perhaps more appropriately be called Conversations for the way it feels. Each song breezes beautifully by, with Abate’s organic spume of notes, cascading effortlessly the way wind pushes over a field of wheat. Abate is masterful in the way he handles a variety of themes (or topics) and the disc is persistent and interesting, the way an adept communicator can be when making great conversation.
Abate, a master on the alto saxophone, has been doing this a long time, and his experience lifts up the songs on Motif, shines a light on them, and makes the record a joy to listen to. It doesn’t hurt that he’s surrounded himself with an impeccable cadre of musicians: drummer Mark Walker, inimitable bassist John Lockwood, and pianist Tim Ray. Together, they encircle Abate with a cushiony, luxurious musical bumper, keeping Abate on track with his blowing yet also allowing him the space for full expression. Abate certainly takes advantage. Fans of the sax, and alto in particular, will revel in his tone and note choices, as he explores the full range of the instrument.
He plays with immense personality and always has. Going back to his earliest days as a professional—in the Ray Charles Orchestra (where he, if you recall, replaced the one of a kind, David “Fathead” Newman) and the Artie Shaw band, led at the time by clarinetist Dick Johnson. Since then, he has been at it on and off, mostly on, and his dexterity stands out on Motif.
The record opens with the zesty title track, a re-harmonization of the standard “All the Things You Are.” It moves smoothly into the slower, and slightly bluesy “Buddy’s Rendezvous,” an elegy to Abate’s late friend Buddy Hawkins. That, in turn segues into “Snowfall,” a peaceful evocation of the title matter, that is brisk and light, even while Abate’s minor key composition and solid alto paint a beautiful picture of what it might have been like on the inside looking out. “Bittersweet,” the track that follows, is deep and personal, with a bossa nova underpinning and, according to Abate, “several different key centers.”
It’s easy to continue in this vein, but we won’t. The songs are easy to hear and artfully executed. Like an exhilarating talk between friends, it is beautifully paced and wonderfully articulated.
On Motif, Greg Abate presents prima facie evidence proving he belongs near the top of the list when the subject is today’s top sax players. Abate reminds us, as the notes tumble generously out of his horn, that he deserves every jazz fan’s unwavering attention.
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“Coming soon…CDs due in next week. Radio already requesting promo!”
Greg Abate resides in Rhode Island, but spends very little time there. He tours, performs to sold-out crowds and records all over the world. The list of band mates on his many CDs as a leader reads like a who’s who of jazz masters, including pianists Kenny Barron and the late James Williams, saxophonists Phil Woods, Richie Cole and trumpeter Claudio Roditi. His latest band includes a dream trio of giants based in the Boston area. Pianist Tim Ray spend several years with Lyle Lovett, has shared the stage with Aretha and Bonnie Raitt, among others, and has had at New England Conservatory and Harvard. He is currently at Berklee College.
Bassist John Lockwood has appeared on many recordings, is an anchor of the longtime jazz juggernaut The Fringe (with George Garzone and Bob Gilotti), and is featured on not less than six previous Whaling City releases. His impeccable taste, rock solid rhythmic drive and the famous Lockwood bounce elevate any performance, live or recorded, on which he is present.
Drummer Mark Walker is a multi-Grammy winner and Berklee professor. A mainstay behind Carribean Jazz Project and Paquito de Rivera, Walker has a remarkable following in the Latin jazz arena. As part of this group, Walker shows he can also contribute handily in be-bop and swing settings. When he performs, you can usually tell who the drummers are in audience; they are the ones with their jaws dropping.
Following the death of longtime jazz innovator and icon John Coltrane, his longtime drummer Elvin Jones tapped Dave Liebman for Elvin’s band and subsequent recording. Lieb also toured and recorded with Miles Davis shortly after the release of “On The Corner.” Lieb has over 200 CDs as a leader or co-leader and appears on 300 more. After maintaining his own solid band for over 20 years, Liebman is now launching a new group, Expansions, with his breakthrough Samsara CD. Never one to rest on his laurels or the music from his significant past, Liebman remains a spiritual and musical leader for younger and older musicians who want to forge their own paths rather than follow. As Dave says of his latest group and music, “the direction is eclectic…with an emphasis on free collective improvising, along with rhythmic/harmonic devices that have become so prevalent…explored by the new generation, who, like their predecessors, have changed the jazz language.”
Rounding out the band are newcomers and veterans alike: saxophonist Matt Vashlishan, pianist Bobby Avey, bassist Tony Marino and drummer Alex Ritz.
The excitement will be tangible and the evening historic: a chance to see two saxophone veterans and their latest bands, both of whom have never sounded better, stronger and more committed to their art than they are today.
For more information on Greg Abate
For more information on Dave Liebman
Greg Abate jazz saxophonist, flutist, composer continues as an International Jazz/Recording Artist with 225 days a year touring the globe. In the mid 70’s after finishing a four year program at Berklee College Of Music, Greg played lead alto for the Ray Charles Orchestra for 2 years.
Greg is joined by the incomparable talents of Kent Hewitt on piano, Harvie S on bass and Bill Goodwin on drums!
In 1978 Greg formed his group Channel One which was a favorite in the New England area and from there had the opportunity to play tenor sax with the revived Artie Shaw Orchestra under leadership of Dick Johnson from 1986 to ’87. Following this experience Greg ventured out as post hard bop soloist playing Jazz Festivals, Jazz Societies and Jazz Clubs throughout the U.S. Canada and abroad, including most of Europe, UK, and Moscow and Georgia Russia.
Greg is also an adjunct professor of Jazz Studies at Rhode Island College and is also a very active jazz clinician with co. sponsorship from the Conn -Selmer Instrument Co., conducting workshops and master classes through the U.S and abroad. For more artist details visit: www.gregabate.com
What some say about Greg Abate: Abate is not content to rely on stock bebop riffs and standard chord progressions. Rather, the sharp angularity of his phrases and the often startling pauses in his fast-moving lines give his work a feeling of constant invention and creativity.” –Howard Reich, Chicago Tribune
Greg Abate and Band
4/23: Greg Abate @Wamsutta Club to Benefit the YWCA
Be-Bop Road Warrior Greg Abate and His Quartet Making Rare New
Bedford Stop at the Wamsutta Club to Benefit the YWCA
New Bedford, MA – Jazz alto sax legend Greg Abate brings his high power quartet to the Wamsutta Club in downtown New Bedford on Wednesday night, April 23, at 8 pm. The concert continues the long-running presentations by Whaling City Sound with proceeds to benefit the YWCA of Southestern Mass.
Two days after this performance, Mr. Abate and the same band head into the studio to record the music they will be premiering at the Wamsutta. This is a rare chance to hear a top-notch, all-star jazz group explore original music written for this moment, and which has not previously been played.
Although Mr. Abate is based in Rhode Island for many years, there is no telling where you might run into him, or better yet, catch his inspired performances. He is a regular at festivals, clinics, clubs and universities all over the world. His impressive body of recorded CDs showcases Greg with many of jazz’s legends in the rhythm section or as guest horn-players, so often so that you can count on it. Kenny Barron, Mark Soskin, Rufus Reid, Harvie S, Bill Miele, Paul Del Nero, Paul Nagel and others are just a few of those who can be heard on Greg’s recordings.
Keyboard wizard, composer and educator Tim Ray is the leader of the “chamber jazz” group Tre Corda, but that does not keep him from performances at places like the White House and Carnegie Hall, or on TV shows like the “Tonight Show” and “Letterman.” Recently Tim was part of this same rhythm section at Scullers in Boston with Greg’s baritone-heavy sextet. Currently on the faculty of Berklee College, Tim has taught at all of the major colleges, universities and conservatories in Boston.
John Lockwood has performed at the Wamsutta Club many times as one of the anchors and treasures of guitarist John Stein’s Quartet over the last 5+ years. If Mr. Lockwood is in the band, it is understood that the level of the music just went up a few gears.
Behind the drums for this evening is master drummer Mark Walker. A major contributor to the success of the bands Oregon and the Caribbean Jazz Project, Mark was a long-time member of Paquito D’Rivera’s touring group. He is a Grammy winner, and also teaches at Berklee College in Boston.
The Wamsutta Club is now recognized as a relaxed and pleasant setting for acoustic jazz. Comfortable and quiet, the audience is there to hear music. A limited food menu will be available, along with a cahs bar.
The Wamsutta Club, at 427 County Street, corner of Union Street, in downtown New Bedford, has plenty of on-site, easy-in/easy-out parking and is handicap accessible.
Aug 13, 2010
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Newsletters: 6/19, 5/19, 4/19, 3/19, 2/19, 1/19, 12/18, 11/18, 10/18, 9/18, 8/18, 7/18, 6/18, 5/18, 4/18, 3/18, 2/18, 1/18, 12/17, 11/17, 10/17, 9/17, 8/17, 7/17, 6/17, 5/17, 4/17, 3/17, 2/17, 1/17, 12/16, 11/16, 10/16, 9/16, 8/16, 7/16, 6/16, 5/16, 4/16, 3/16, 2/16, 1/16, 12/15, 11/15, 10/15, 9/15 I, 9/15 II, 8/15, 7/15, 6/15, 5/15, 4/15, 3/15, 2/15, 1/15
Promo Photo: Neal Weiss, President (Dave Arruda photo)
Radio promotion by: Mike Carlson (John Stein Color Tones)
Dave Zinno Unisphere/Stories Told (WCS113)
Various Artists/Calm Waters, Rolling Swells, Roiling Seas/A Whaling City Sound Compilation CD (WCS112)
Greg Murphy Trio/Bright Idea (WCS111) Peaked at #1 TWICE on JazzWeek
Danny Bacher/Still Happy (WCS110)
Debra Mann/Full Circle: The Music of Joni Mitchell (WCS109) Peaked at #46 on JazzWeek and #9 on Canada’s !Earshot Radio Chart
Dorian Komanoff Bandy, Paul Cienniwa/Telemann Sonatas for Violin & Harpsichord (WCS108)
Dori Rubbicco with The John Harrison Quintet/Stage Door Live! (WCS107)
Benito Gonzalez, Gerry Gibbs, Essiet Okon Essiet/Passion Reverence Transcendence (WCS 102) #19 3 weeks
Monika Herzig/SHEROES (WCS106) Highest Debut, #22
Jay Rodriguez/Your Sound Live at Dizzy Coca Cola (WCS105) Highest Debut, #22
Eric Wyatt/Look to the Sky (WCS104) Biggest Gainer, Peaked at #16
Fred Farell/Distant Song (WCS103) +37 spots to #30
Dave Zinno Unisphere/River of January (WCS099) + Most Added, Peaked at #54
Lewis Porter Phil Scarff Group/Three Minutes to Four (WCS100) +37 spots to #30
Alma Micic/That Old Feeling (WCS099) +37 spots to #30
Miles Donahue/The Bug (WCS098) Chartbound
Marcus Monteiro/Another Side of Me (WCS097) +27 spins to spot #38
Steve Langone Trio/Breathe (WCS 096) Peaked at #79
Plucky Strum/Departure (WCS095) Peaked at #42
Lewis Porter Phil Scarff Group/Three Minutes to Four (WCS100) +11 Most Added
John Stein & Dave Zinno/Wood And Strings (WCS093) Chartbound
Terry Gibbs 92 Years Young/Jammin’ at the Gibbs House (WCS091) Biggest Gainer: Move +28 Most Added +20
Gerry Gibbs & Thrasher People Weather or Not (WCS091) Peaked at #1, 3 weeks, Gerry’s 4th #1 CD IN A ROW, 8 weeks airplay
Greg Abate with Tim Ray Trio Road to Forever (WCS090) Peaked at #12, 8 weeks airplay
John Stein Color Tones (WCS089) Peaked at #20, 10 weeks airplay
Azzolina Govoni Nussbaum Zinno Chance Meeting (WCS082) Re-peaks at #12, 23 weeks airplay
Rale Micic Night Music (WCS086) Peaked at #23, 21 weeks airplay
The Dave Liebman Group Expansions Live (WCS 088 two cd set) Peaked at #60, 1 week on chart, 814 spins
The Eric Hargett Trio featuring Joey DeFrancesco & Gerry Gibbs Steppin’ Up (WCS083) Peaked at #6, 24 weeks airplay
Kristen Lee Sergeant Inside/Out (WCS087)
The Tim Ray Trio with John Lockwood, bass and Mark Walker, drums Windows (WCS085)
Steven Kirby Illuminations (WCS084)
Greg Murphy Summer Breeze (WCS081) Peaked at #24, 13 weeks and counting on chart
Monika Herzig, The Whole World in Her Hands (WCS079) Peaked at #20, on chart for 18 weeks
Danny Bacher’s Swing That Music! (WCS080)
Jason Miles presents: To Grover with Love/LIVE IN JAPAN (WCS078)
Jason Miles/Ingrid Jensen Kind of New (WCS073) Peaked #20, 16 weeks on JazzWeek chart, #72 Top 100 Year End, released on vinyl 2/12/16
Greg Abate Kindred Spirits Live at Chan’s (WCS077) one of the last of Phil Woods’ live recordings, with Mark Walker, John Lockwood, & Tim Ray Peaked at #28
Gerry Gibbs, Ron Carter, Kenny Barron, Cassandra Wilson, Roy Hargrove Gerry Gibbs Thrasher Dream Trio Live In Studio (WCS076) Peaked #1 for two weeks, 3rd Thrasher Dream Trio CD IN A ROW to hit #1
Gerry Gibbs, Ron Carter, Kenny Barron We’re Back (WCS069) SEVEN weeks at #1, twice in one year
Gerry Gibbs, Ron Carter, Kenny Barron Thrasher Dream Trio (WCS065) 57th Annual Grammy Awards Nominee: Best Improvised Jazz Solo: “The Eye Of The Hurricane” Kenny Barron, soloist
Expansions: The Dave Liebman Group The Puzzle (WCS075) Chartbound, Biggest Gainer
Joan Chamorro & Andrea Motis Feeling Good (WCS074) Chartbound
Harvie S|Sheryl Bailey Plucky Strum (WCS072) Peaked #35, 8 weeks on chart, Highest Debut
Dave Bass NYC Sessions (WCS071) Peaked at #5, 16 weeks on chart, one of 2015’s Best Jazz Albums by DownBeat
CDs available through: Naxos USA
Worldwide Sales: Ali Khan, New Sounds Consulting
Mixed Media Client since: 1999
Since its inception in 1999, Whaling City Sound, founded in New Bedford, Mass., has made a point of providing a viable musical outlet for an abundance of outstanding regional musicians. WCS aims for innovation, impeccable sound, and professional packaging that captures the sound and feel of each recording. These recordings have, in turn, helped its roster of musicians earn international recognition, and have put Whaling City Sound on the short list of small labels synonymous with quality. Its business model is simple: If you like the company’s CDs and purchase them, WCS can continue to make more of the music its listeners love, of equal or even better quality. And let’s face it: life’s too short to not enjoy great music.
If WCS artists have news to share, please email info to us at ginny@mixedmediapromo.com;
back to client list
Whaling City Sound Artists – Jennifer, Jano, Sophisticated Lady, What’s New, Alfie, Cast Your Fate To The Wind, The Faction Of Cool, Whaling City Sound, Kojak, Meatsauce, Liberian Hummingbird Expansions, Receipt, Please, Last Song Lovely Emestina
The 16th Annual Narrows Festival of the Arts on Sunday, Sept. 10th from 11:00am – 7:00pm in Fall River, MA.
Click above flyer for more information. Click above flyer for more information.
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The Joys of Jazz on the Waterfront
Great performers and tasty food highlight an epic experience at a nice price in New Bedford, at the 6th Annual New Bedford JazzFest. New Bedford is again on the cusp of summer—thank heavens!— and its waterfront will again be the site for, not fishing, as it has for centuries, but jazz!On June 10, Whaling City Sound, along with various other local sponsors, present the 6th Annual New Bedford JazzFest, featuring national and local jazz talent. Headlining this highly anticipated event will be Gerry Gibbs and Thrasher People, an exhilarating and supremely talented New York-based trio and one of Whaling City Sound’s marquee artists. Gibbs’ last four recordings have climbed to the top spot on national jazz radio charts, including his latest release, Weather or Not, in part an ear-tingling tribute to jazz greats Weather Report.Neal Weiss, the chief proprietor at Whaling City Sound, runs the fast-growing label, which is credited with many chart-topping jazz titles. WCS has been responsible for releasing much of Gibbs’ most recent work. “Gerry is a dynamic performer, who brings tremendous energy and excitement to the stage, and inspires his band-mates.”In addition to Gibbs’ Thrasher People, the lineup at Jazzfest also features another Whaling City Sound artist, Dino Govoni and his quartet, which in turn stars the sublime vocals of Boston’s acclaimed Cassandre McKinley. By turns powerful and soulful, bluesy and jazzy, McKinley will surely be a highlight of the festival, as she fronts the impressive work of Govoni and his sax-led quartet.To help keep the energy high, Matthew Hartnett and the Gumbo All-Stars bring a NOLA twist to New Bedford. Hartnett’s zesty creole jazz will certainly transport festival-goers to the French Quarter, where boogie and funky trombones reign.The day kicks off early with the SouthCoast Jazz Orchestra, a thrilling 17-piece big band appearing at the festival for its sixth year. You’ll revel in their booming big band sound, led by Symphony Music Shop owner Bob Williamson.The music kicks off around 2:15. But come early to take advantage of the food trucks and an “Artists Colony” curated by the New Bedford Art Museum.The fun doesn’t stop after the festival. Bring your ticket stub to JazzFest partner the Greasy Lucky Brewery, where you’ll witness a funky jazz jam session with a house band and special guests.Advance tickets are a steal at $20 at NewBedfordJazzFest.com, by calling the Your Theatre box office at 508-993-0772, or in person at Bridgewater Credit Union (Fairhaven branch), Greasy Luck Brewery and Symphony Music Shop. After June 5, tickets will go for $25. Children 15 and under are free when accompanied by an adult. There’s parking at the Elm Street Garage. The event is under a tent, so it’s on rain or shine.JazzFest is produced by and for the benefit of Your Theatre, Inc. (YTI), New Bedford’s 70-year old community theater group. YTI has partnered with Waterfront Historic League (WHALE) to purchase, restore and convert 149 William St. (First Baptist Church) into a theatre for YTI. Proceeds from this event will assist in this partnership to preserve vital historic architecture and provide a lasting home for New Bedford’s longest running community theatre. www.yourtheatre.org
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Talking to this guitar legend, Reggie Young about a release in 2017.
Reggie Young (born December 12, 1936) is an American musician who was lead guitarist in the American Sound Studios Band (aka The Memphis Boys), and is aa leading session musician. He played on various recordings with artists such as Elvis Presley, B.J. Thomas, John Prine, Dusty Springfield, Herbie Mann, J.J. Cale, Dionne Warwick, Roy Hamilton, Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings, the Box Tops, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Merle Haggard, and George Strait.
2017 NAXOS Conference, Nashville, Tennessee:
Pictured left to right: Tom Evered, our NAXOS distribution label manager, Neal Weiss, WCS Label President, Jenny and Reggie Young at Renaissance Hotel in Nashville at the annual Naxos label conference.
JAZZWEEK:
“Kindred Spirits Live at Chan’s,” Greg Abate, one of the last of Phil Woods’ live recordings, with Mark Walker, John Lockwood, & Tim Ray (#35 2/29/16; peaked at #28 2/8/16, 2 weeks Most Added, Biggest Gainer 1/25/16)
“Gerry Gibbs Thrasher Dream Trio Live In Studio” by Gerry Gibbs, Ron Carter, Kenny Barron, Cassandra Wilson, Roy Hargrove Peaked #1 for two weeks, 11/16+23/15; “Congrats!” 3rd Thrasher Dream Trio CD IN A ROW to hit #1 (for 2 weeks) on JazzWeek! Thank you Neal Sapper, Matt Hughes and all our loyal jazz radio supporters! “We’re Back” SEVEN weeks at #1, twice in one year for Gerry Gibbs and the Thrasher Dream Trio; 57th Annual Grammy Awards Nominee: Best Improvised Jazz Solo: “The Eye Of The Hurricane” Kenny Barron, soloist, from Gerry Gibbs Thrasher Dream Trio
“The Puzzle” by Expansions: The Dave Liebman Group (Chartbound 11/9/15, Biggest Gainer 9/21/15)
“Feeling Good” by Joan Chamorro & Andrea Motis (Chartbound 9/14/15)
“Kind of New” by Jason Miles/Ingrid Jensen (Peaked #20, 16 weeks on chart, to be released on vinyl 2/12/16)
“Plucky Strum” by Harvie S|Sheryl Bailey (8 weeks on chart, 5/18/16 Highest Debut #35)
“NYC Sessions” by Dave Bass (Peaked at #5, 16 weeks on chart, one of 2015’s Best Jazz Albums by DownBeat)
3/22: Mark T. Small’s Winter Warming performance; 4/19 added
Here is the update on our last Winter Warming performance and news about
an add-on performance this year.
SUNDAY MARCH 22
MARK T. SMALL
1pm until 3pm
33 Maple Street, New Bedford
Tickets at the door only
$15 non-members, $10 friends of 
http://www.newbedford-ma.gov/library/
SUNDAY, APRIL 19
UP AND COMING JAZZ MUSICIANS
1pm until 3pm
Downtown Public Library
Pleasant Street New Bedford
Tickets at the door only
$15. non-members, $10. Friends
NEW BEDFORD HIGH SCHOOL JAZZ COMBO
Christian Borges, Alto Saxaphone
Emma Pacheco, Trombone
Keegan Marshall-House, Piano
Benjamin Lacassse, Bass
Andrew Madeira, Drums
UMASS DARTMOUTH JAZZ TRIO
Miles Flisher, Piano
Evan MacLeod, Upright Bass
Al Nawrocki, Drums
All proceeds go to support programming for children’s events at the libraries
Here are some clips/pictures from yesterday’s Winter Warming concert:
EmmaLee Holmes-Hicks and Megan Koch
Video 1 | Video 2 | Video 3
Friends Of The New Bedford Free Public Library
110 Clinton St
New Bedford, MA 02740
Phone: (508) 990-2130and
Whaling City Soundpresent “Winter Warming,” a series of three house concerts in various styles, Sundays, 1 – 3 pmNext:Feb. 22, classical with EmmaLee Holmes-Hicks and Megan Koch, violin, and members of the New Bedford Symphony String Quartet, 78 Orchard Street, New Bedford.March 22, acoustic blues with Mark T. Small, 33 Maple Street, New Bedford.The historic houses make wonderful settings for classical and blues.Soup and light refreshments will be available.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:YWCA Benefit Concert:
Jazz Pianist Tim Ray and His All-Star Trio Rolls Into New Bedford’s Wamsutta Club
New Bedford, MA – World class pianist Tim Ray brings his renowned bandmates – John Lockwood on bass and Mark Walker on drums – to the Wamsutta Club in downtown New Bedford on Wednesday night, September 17, at 7:30 pm. The concert is presented by Whaling City Sound and proceeds benefit the YWCA of Southeastern Mass.
At this concert performance, the trio will be playing songs in front of an audience just before heading into WGBH Studios in Boston to record, on the following Sunday. This is an unusual chance to hear a top-notch group explore music just prior to making a CD.
Tim Ray, a composer, educator and keyboard wizard, is the leader of the “chamber jazz” group Tre Corda, but that does not keep him from performances at places like the White House and Carnegie Hall, or on TV shows like the “Tonight Show” and “Letterman.” Recently, Tim recorded both a studio CD and a live session, as part of the same rhythm section, for saxophone road warrior Greg Abate. The live session, a performance at Chan’s in Woonsocket, RI, included alto sax legend Phil Woods as a special guest. Currently on the faculty of Berklee College, Tim has held positions at all of the major colleges, universities and conservatories in Boston, including New England Conservatory, Harvard and M.I.T. He spent several years on the road as music director for Lyle Lovett, and has shared the stage with Aretha Franklin and Bonnie Raitt, among many, many others.
John Lockwood has performed at the Wamsutta Club many times. He is an anchor of the longtime jazz juggernaut The Fringe (with George Garzone and Bob Gullotti), and is featured on not less than six previous Whaling City releases as a key element of guitarist John Stein’s Quartet. His impeccable taste, rock solid rhythmic drive and the famous Lockwood bounce elevate any performance, live or recorded, on which he is present; if Mr. Lockwood is in the band, it is understood that the level of the music just went up a few notches. .
Behind the drums for this evening is master drummer Mark Walker. A major contributor to the success of bands like Oregon and the Caribbean Jazz project, Mark was a long-time member of Paquito D’Rivera’s touring group. He has sev- eral Grammy awards to his credit, and no one will be surprised if he picks up a few more in the coming years. When Mark is performing, it is easy to tell who the drummers are in the audience; they are the ones with their jaws dropping, looking stunned.
The YWCA is dedicated to empowering women and ending racism. From the historic Standish House in downtown New Bedford, the YWCA Southeastern Massachusetts delivers services to women and girls from Brockton to Provincetown and Attleboro. For many years, the YWCA has continued to present exceptional music in comfortable rooms. The Wamsutta Club is now recognized as a relaxing and pleasant setting to hear acoustic jazz. It is comfortable and quiet, and the audience is there to hear music. Drinks will be available, as well as a limited food menu.
The Wamsutta Club, at 427 County Street, corner of Union Street, in downtown New Bedford, has plenty of on-site, easy- in/easy-out parking and is handicap accessible.
Tickets are $20.00 in advance and $25.00 at the door. You are advised to purchase tickets early as seating is limited and the event may sell out. Tickets are available at the YWCA, 20 South Sixth Street, New Bedford, MA 02740, (508)999-3255, www.ywcasema.org; from Whaling City Sound (508)992-6613, www.whalingcitysound.com; or at the Wamsutta Club, (508) 997-7431, www.wamsuttaclub.net. Directions are available at www.wamsuttaclub.net, or through www.whalingcitysound.com.
Neil Weiss in the news.
click above image to read full article
We’re so proud! For a 6th week total at #1: GERRY GIBBS THRASHER DREAM TRIO with RON CARTER & KENNY BARRON.
Thanks so much to all the jazz djs, reviewers, fans and supporters across the country!
See Gerry Gibbs LIVE with his THRASHER ALL-STAR BIG BAND @DIZZY’S (www.jalc.org) FEB 6,7,8,9 doing a tribute to his father TERRY GIBBS & his 7 time nominated DREAM BAND from the 1950s/1960s…The band features: PAQUITO D’RIVERA, TOM HARRELL, NICHOLAS PAYTON, ERIC ALEXANDER, VINCENT HERRING, MARK GROSS, TIVON PENNICOTT, GARY SMULYAN, ROBIN EUBANKS, CONRAD HERWIG, STEVE DAVIS, FRANK GREENE, MARVIN STAMM, LEW SOLOFF, JOE MAGNARELLI, GERALD CANNON, DONALD VEGA
http://www.jazzweek.com/
~ Season’s Greetings ~
May your holidays be filled with beautiful music
Warm wishes to you & yours~
Neal Weiss, Whaling City Sound
‘Tis the season! WCSound Gives The Gift Of Music!
Facebook Contest!!!
New Bedford’s Whaling City Sound label has a lot to celebrate!
Our most recent CD, Gerry Gibbs’ “Thrasher Dream Trio,” with Ron Carter and Kenny Barron, is one of the most-played CDs on radio in the country at the moment, climbing to #2 on the Jazz Week chart.
With a review in JazzTimes Magazine next month, Jazziz January or February, and another in DownBeat Magazine in February, Gibbs tops it off with a NYC/Lincoln Center show!
February 6-9, 2014
Set Times 7:30pm & 9:30 pm
Plus 11:30pm, Fri
Late Night Session Sets
Tue–Sat, after last Artist Set
Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola | Jazz at Lincoln Center
Broadway and 60th Street New York, NY 10019
Box Office Hours Mon-Sat: 10am-6pm; Sun: 12pm-6pm
Centercharge 212-721-6500
Reservations 212-258-9595/9795
The week of February 6th through the 9th is a great weekend for jazz fans to hear some of the greatest talents around
from the All Star Thrasher Big Band
With special guest Nicolas Payton, Paquito D’Rivera, Tom Harrell and one more special guest TBA
Drums: Gerry Gibbs
Saxes: Steve Wilson, Vincent Herring, Eric Alexander, Victor Goines, Ronnie Cuber
Trombones: Robin Eubanks, Condrad Herwig, Steve Davis Trumpets: Frank Green, Marvin Stamm, Lew Soloff, Joe Magnerelli
Bass: Dwayne Burno
Piano: Donald Vega
“I will be doing a tribute to my father Terry Gibbs Dream Band”
Just wanted to throw it out there.
10/30 Dino Govoni and Jim Robitaille @ University of Massachusetts Dartmouth
All of us at Whaling City Sound were saddened to learn about the passing of both Frank D’Rone and Dick LaPalm within a few days of each other. The connection for us is that Dick introduced us to Frank D’Rone, in every way, and encouraged the partnership that led to the WCS release of Frank’s “Double Exposure.”
No other CD on the label met with so many requests for on-air or prerecorded interviews by the artist, and based on the interviews I heard, Frank was both a pleasure to listen to and a warm individual with great stories to tell. Vibist Terry Gibbs, a contemporary of Frank, said about him, “we always said he was the hippist guy in the room.” By that, he meant that the musicians in the audience felt that Frank was a better singer than most of the otherwise appreciative members of the audience knew.
Dick LaPalm was a true friend who also did his job very well. He gave Whaling City Sound a new visibility, guiding John Stein’s “Raising the Roof” to the top of the Jazz Week charts, including number 8 for the entire of 2010. He was an industry titan.
It was an honor and a blessing to have shared some time with these quality individuals. They showed me that commitment and integrity is alive and well.
Here is a link to the long and amazing obituary of Frank D’Rone by his friend, Chicago Tribune reporter Howard Reich.
http://my.chicagotribune.com/#section/-1/article/p2p-77651892/
- Dick LaPalm sent along the above photo. That’s Dick on the left and Nat King Cole on the right in Chicago. Dick was Cole’s record promoter and close friend throughout his career at Capitol, up until Cole’s death in 1965. For those unaware, a record promoter was needed to get new records aired by as many radio stations as possible and for making sure that local stores were stocked with copies so listeners could buy what they heard. Dick and Cole’s clearly was a fine partnership and friendship. – See more at: http://www.jazzwax.com/2012/09/weekend-wax-bits-5.html#sthash.M164u5VM.dpuf From: http://www.jazzwax.com/2012/09/weekend-wax-bits-5.html
For Release: October 29, 2013
from Whaling City Sound, New Bedford, MA
Distribution: NAXOS of America Inc.
Reply for Digital Download on SoundCloud/Dropbox
http://www.whalingcitysound.com/wcs065.htm
A DREAM COME TRUE …
Whaling City Sound fulfills a long-awaited dream with its 10/29 release,
Thrasher Dream Trio, starring Ron Carter, Kenny Barron, and bandleader/drummer Gerry Gibbs.
Since 1999, New Bedford’s Whaling City Sound has been building an archive of great jazz recordings, with a roster of august artists that includes John Abercrombie, John Stein, Joe Beck, Dave Liebman and many more. Seemingly each year, at a time when economic forces have put a real squeeze on the music industry, and jazz in general, the tiny label that could has elevated its audio game. Since setting up shop, it has ushered quality recordings into the jazz audiosphere one after another. One disc jockey commented, “When I see a Whaling City Sound package come into the studio, I open the envelope and put it right on the air.” Bob Blumenthal, esteemed jazz writer for many moons now, often supports Whaling City Sound projects, as a liner-note writer and loyal fan. Regarding Thrasher Dream Trio, he writes: Anyone who has concerns regarding the health of jazz, the ongoing relevance of its living legends or the artistry of those they have inspired needs to hear this album.” High praise indeed for WCS’s musical integrity.
Thrasher Dream Trio is a priority release for WCS’s new distributor, Naxos, a significant new alliance following the dissolution of its recent relationship with Allegro. “When one door closes,” says Neal Weiss, president of WCS, “another door opens. We really respected our work with Allegro, but we are even more hopeful with Naxos, which also does amazing work.”
To celebrate, WCS is giving its most celebrated work to date to Naxos. While, occasionally, high profile projects like this one fail to live up to the possibilities, this one obviously doesn’t; it bristles with energy, color and imagination. Barron and Carter, the giant piano/bass team, certainly need no introduction, but a note must be made about their collaboration here. Their history working together is one of the intangibles that makes this project so interesting.
“We are so fortunate to release this recording through our label,” says Weiss, “especially an album like this that features these awesome musicians, and one that comes at such an important time in the label’s history. We’ll do everything we can to ensure the music gets into the right hands, because I think we can all agree, jazz this good deserves to be heard.”
And, we might add, fulfills a dream come true for Whaling City Sound.
Also check out: Raising the Roof by John Stein, which finished #8 for the year on the JazzWeek chart in 2010, climbing as high as #2. Also available on Whaling City Sound is Gerry Gibbs’ Thrasher Big Band Live At Luna (wcs033) Gerry Gibbs’ Electric Thrasher Orchestra Plays The Music Of Miles Davis 1967-1975 (wcs047).
And stay tuned for Joe Beck’s final recording. Beck, who played with Frank Sinatra, Miles Davis, and James Brown, to name a few, was a Whaling City Sound flagship artist before passing away in 2008.
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4/5: YWCA benefit concert at Wamsutta Club: A Great Night of Jazz
David Bindman Sextet at the Wamsutta Club
What: Concert/Benefit
Start Time: Friday April 5 at 8:00pm
Where:The Wamsutta Club 427 County St. New Bedford, MA
(convenient parking/handicap accessible)
Cost: $20 in Advance, $25 at Door
More Info: (508) 992-6613 or visit http://www.wamsuttaclub.net/
Bindman’s Sextet: Frank London, Art Hirahara, Reut Regev, Wes Brown and royal hartigan
Email: nweiss@focenter.com
A Great Night of Jazz
Don’t miss the spirit and innovation from tenor saxophonist David Bindman and his sextet
If you are a fan of creative jazz and have not heard Bindman’s work, you’re in for a real treat, as Whaling City Sound presents the David Bindman Sextet at the Wamsutta Club in New Bedford. The tenor saxophonist and composer possesses a hyperactive sense of innovation, and his music cries out with exuberance and inspiration. Jazz critic Steve Holtje wrote of his recent CD, Sunset Park Polyphony, “This self-released two-CD sextet album is his masterpiece so far. David Bindman is someone whose work you should become familiar with, because music this good needs to be shared.”
Bindman’s sound is wide open and beautifully played, with a spectrum ranging from rare subtlety to wild abandon. David’s work demonstrates a sense of curiosity and spirit not found in a great deal of jazz. His sense of cultural appreciation is real, not simply a euphemism for world music.
And speaking of world music, Bindman’s experience is truly global. The musician’s recent activities include performances and workshops in Sweden with the collaborative quartet Stockholm Sodra, performances and workshops in the Philippines with Blood Drum Spirit, including as the featured ensemble at the Cultural Center of the Philippines inaugural jazz festival, and concerts in Slovenia with Adam Lane’s Full Throttle Orchestra. Bindman appears on recently released recordings by Fred Ho and Adam Lane.
Bindman was born in 1963 in New York City. He graduated from Wesleyan University in 1985 and received an MA in World Music from Wesleyan in 1987. He has received grants from the Brooklyn Arts Council, the Queens Council on the Arts, the Puffin Foundation, Meet The Composer, and The Aaron Copland Fund for Music Performing Ensembles. He has taught in the New York City school system, at the Consortium for Worker Education, Bennington College, LaGuardia Community College, and The New School University, and has conducted master classes throughout the USA and in Canada.
One real treat for local audiences will be watching drummer royal hartigan, a talented musician that has played in Bindman’s ensemble for over 20 years. hartigan teaches at UMass Dartmouth and is well-known to regional jazz fans. Bindman’s sextet also includes Frank London (trumpet), Art Hirahara (piano), Reut Regev (trombone), and Wes Brown (contrabass).
The show takes place on Friday, April 5, 8pm and tickets are $20 in advance. Proceeds will benefit the YWCA of Southeastern Mass. For more information call Whaling City Sound at (508) 992-6613 or email Neal Weiss at nweiss@focenter.com Tickets are $25 at the door. The Wamsutta Club is located at 427 County Street, New Bedford, Mass. http://www.wamsuttaclub.net/
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https://mixedmediapromo.com/news-2/
Effective February 1, 2013, Naxos of America, Inc. will become the exclusive distributor of all
Whaling City Sounds titles in the United States & Canada. Effective February 1, 2013, all orders
and returns of Whaling City Sounds product will be processed by Naxos of America, Inc. We are looking forward to launching a successful business relationship with John Stein’s Bing Bang Boom. 2/26/2013 Release.
Naxos of America, Inc.
1810 Columbia Avenue • Suite 28 • Franklin, Tennessee 37064
Phone: 615.771.9393 • Fax: 615.771.6747
Whaling City Sound
1310 Tucker Road No. Dartmouth, MA 02747 USA
Phone: 508-992-6613 Fax: 508-991-8876 Email: Info@Whalingcitysound.com
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Whaling City Christmas
by Dana Wright
A Whaling City Christmas Volume 1 is a holiday collection I can’t get enough of. The sheer variety of music is engaging and the quality of the artist’s work is even more addictive then those little candy canes you find at the bottom of your stocking. Better than a petrified fruit cake, these songs are full of humor, grit and so many genres of music; it’s hard to name them all. Folk, Electronica, Easy Listening, Jazz, R&B, Pop, Rock Ballad, Spoken Word, Americana, Bluegrass and Christian just to name a few. What can I say? This album is chock full of great songs and full of holiday wonder, commercial greed, electrifying light shows, a homicidal Santa and more. You’ll love it. Promise.
for entire review: http://www.muzikreviews.com/reviews.php?ID=2368
Whaling City Sound Waves is a compilation of select tracks for the benefit of Schwartz Center for Children, a caring organization dedicated to serving children with special needs. This fine recording features R&B artists Sarah Brooks and Graceful Soul, classical harpsichord player Paul Cienniwa, bluesman Mark T. Small, Grand Army and a variety of excellent jazz musicians including Shawn Monteiro, Joe Beck, John Abercrombie, and Gerry Gibbs. Enjoy this eclectic mix and the benefits of giving.
From Jim Robitaille:
“Hello everyone.
I want to let you know about the Fall semester UMass Dartmouth Performance Jam Session Series. All concerts are held on Wednesday evenings at 8:00 pm, at the University of Massachusetts Dartmouth, College of Visual and Performing Arts, Group VI building, in room 104, parking lot 8.
The first concert in the series begins on Wednesday, September 26, at 8:00 pm featuring:
The Matt Richard Jim Robitaille Duo
This season we will be dedicating the series to our very special friend and colleague Rick Britto, who passed away in August of this year.
Rick was, as many of you know, an amazing tenor and soprano saxophonist, musician, composer, and educator. Rick always played from the heart, and also communicated with an incredible energy, reaching the people who have had the good fortune of listening to him over the years..
We will be featuring some of Rick’s compositions in several of the concerts, and we hope you will spread the word about this great series, that is free admission, and open to the public.
We hope to see you again at the series.
Thank you as always for your support”
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Too often, way too often in fact, we take our Christmas music for granted. When the holidays roll around and we need some music to spin, we reach for the familiar, the Elvises, the Bings, the Felicianos, Elmo and Patsy! My goodness. For some reason, even those with good taste take a pass during the holidays and stick with the tried and true, yet relatively bland, seasonal tunes. Why? Because we know the melodies like the back of our hand? Do we need to hear Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride” again? Ho ho ho (hum) indeed.
This year, why not reach for holiday music you’ve not heard a million times.Whaling City Sound, the Massachusetts-based label acclaimed for its stylish jazz-based releases, serves up its initial offering of challenging, unfamiliar holiday vibes with A Whaling City Christmas, Volume 1. Fans of the Whaling City Sound sound should approach this with a certain caution: it is not, for one thing, a jazz recording. You’ll find a sax here and there, but there’s lots of things you wouldn’t expect on a typical WCS album, including folk, fiddles, electronics, klezmer clarinet(!) and even a couple of pop melodies.
Despite the unexpected nature of this entire album, we’re sure you’ll enjoy the selections. They are pure, heartfelt, and occasionally humorous; with an organic spirit that embraces the holidays without hammering home the jingle-jingle clichés that we hear ad nauseum. The record kicks off with a gorgeous ballad, Cedric Josey’s “Angels in the Snow,” takes a quick left turn with the Jethros’ folky, funny “Santa Please,” which leads right into Neal McCarthy’s classic-sounding Americana ballad “Christmas Trip.” “Snow” sounds like a pretty Roches-style piece; MM4’s “Jesus Christ the Apple Tree” presents some mellow sax and is the perfect Christmas morning, “let’s all be thankful” wake-up vibe. Elsewhere, there’s blues, synth, country, and all kinds of different grooves on this record. Frankly, it sounds like real Christmas songs played by real American artists. How’s that for a change?
We’re delighted—and you should be, too—that the Whaling City Sound label has the courage to challenge the institutional fortress of traditional Christmas music. There’s beautiful stuff here. In fact, excellent, original seasonal music is written and performed all the time, but never sees the twinkling light of day, largely because the field of what is considered acceptable Christmas carols is fenced off to newcomers. All you have to do is listen to the PA at the mall. With the first volume of A Whaling City Christmas, you can start discovering your own new classics, right here, right now.
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Great time the other night in New Bedford…
David Leibman
Jim Robitaille Trio
David & Jim
Links to YouTube:
Jim Robitaille Trio at New Bedford JAZZFEST 5/18/12
By Mick Colageo
mcolageo@s-t.com
April 05, 2012 12:00 AM
An event to look forward to this spring is the first-ever JazzFest May 18 at Custom House Square
THEATRE TO PRODUCE
JAZZFEST EVENT
NEW BEDFORD, MA — In cooperation with Bridgewater Credit Union as its major corporate sponsor, Your Theatre, Inc. has announced it will produce New Bedford’s first jazz festival scheduled for May 18 at Custom House Square in New Bedford’s Historic District and National Park. Jazzfest will be an upscale annual music event featuring artists from the regional and national jazz scene.
Headlining the event will be Gerry Gibbs and the Electric Thrasher Orchestra featuring Nicholas Payton and Dave Liebman. Whaling City Sound recording artist Gerry Gibbs has been playing Miles Davis’ music for over 20 years and recorded his own tribute to the legendary CD Bitches Brew entitled Gerry Gibbs and the Electric Thrasher Orchestra Play Miles Davis 1967-1975 in 2010.
Nicholas Payton, a New Orleans native, was a musical prodigy who sat in with local bands at age nine. He plays nine instruments and won a 1977 Grammy for his collaboration with Doc Cheatham.
Saxophonist Dave Liebman, recipient of the National Endowment of the Arts Master of Jazz Award in 2011, became a member of Miles Davis’ group from 1970 through 1974. He followed that gig with a world tour with pianist Chick Corea in 1977.
Opening the evening will be the swinging big band sounds of the Southcoast Jazz Orchestra. Founded in 2009 by trumpeter Bob Williamson, proprietor of Dartmouth’s Symphony Shop, and drummer Neil Sylvia, the SJO is a traditional jazz ensemble that can trace its roots back to 1930’s and the Swing Era.
According to Eric Paradis, the event’s chairman and a member of Your Theatre, Inc.’s Board of Directors, “Patrons will enjoy a Friday evening of four to five hours of solid entertainment.”
Adjacent to the main stage tent will be smaller ones housing local food and beverage vendors. In addition, after the performances several local nightlife spots will offer live jazz with no cover charge as a continuation of the JazzFest celebration until 1:30 am.
“It will keep the evening’s vibrancy alive and downtown New Bedford buzzing. Anyone seeking additional information, can ‘Like’ us on Facebook: New Bedford JazzFest,” Mr. Paradis adds.
Tickets are available at branches of the Bridgewater Credit Union, the Symphony Shop, 94 State Road, North Dartmouth, Pier 37, Union Street, New Bedford, and Your Theatre’s box office, 508-993-0772, or at Custom House Square the evening of the festival. Preferred seating is $30.00, general admission standing room tickets are $20.00, and student tickets are $10.00. Tickets at the door are $5.00 extra. Please call YTI for info on Gold Seating and sponsorships.
Located in the auditorium complex at St. Martin’s Church, 136 Rivet St., Your Theatre, Inc. was founded in 1946 by the late Mary A. Smith and is incorporated as a non-profit community theatre. The award-winning company, which has a web site at www.yourtheatre.org, enhances the cultural life of New Bedford, Southeastern Massachusetts, and nearby communities through the study and regular presentation of dramatic productions and other programs of high quality and professional standards.
newbedfordguide.com
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Whaling City Sound exec broadens label’s scope
By SEAN McCARTHY
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
August 22, 2009 12:00 AM
So you and your band have invested countless hours and thousands of dollars in recording your CD.
You’re proud of it and you’re aiming high, but dealing with the music industry is going to mean headaches, frustrations and learning lessons that you really don’t have time for.
You could use some help from someone who understands how to get you onto the radio, reviewed in the press, and distributed to music stores internationally — someone with industry experience.
If Neal Weiss likes what he hears — regardless of genre — he may be able to help you deal with many of the worries and struggles that beset talented bands that lack business savvy, giving artists more time to work with their instruments instead of their e-mails.
Since 1999, Weiss has been president of Whaling City Sound, a record label based in New Bedford that brings top-quality music to listeners around the world. The label was launched as a jazz outlet and continues to put out jazz CDs, but through the years it has grown stylistically and broadened its catalog to include artists from around the country. Recently the label has promoted a vast palette of sounds, including a blues guitarist, a pairing of classical artists, a jazz duo, a chorus specializing in maritime music, and an electronic rock band.
WCS founder Weiss recently spoke about how eclectic the last few years have been for Whaling City Sound.
The label has broken new ground with “Bach Sonatas for Viola Da Gamba” by Audrey & Paul Cienniwa.
“The level of musicianship on this CD is exceptional. They are playing new arrangements and instrumentations for these pieces. She is a phenomenal cellist and he ‘s a tremendous harpsichordist — his performances successfully combine both a bass line and a treble line.”
Paul Cienniwa is a Fall River resident and is the musical director and conductor of Newport Baroque and Sine Nomine, a 24-voice choir which includes Weiss’ vocalist wife, Marjorie Waite. Audrey Cienniwa is a native of France who teaches at the Music School of the Rhode Island Philharmonic and Providence College.
The Cienniwas have been playing together since 1998, performing throughout New England and France.
“This is the first time we’ve put out classical music,” Weiss says. “That can be a challenge because classical radio relies a lot on their catalog of established composers which have been around for hundreds of years.
“We also recently released another classical album, ‘Brahms: 21 Hungarian Dances,’ by the Kantorski-Pope Duo. I’ve been interested in putting out quality chamber music for a long time and these CDs have given me the opportunity to do that,” Weiss says.
“Screamin’ & Cryin’ the Blues,” by Mark T. Small: “This is our second release for Mark, after his self-titled CD in 2005. I’ve been following Mark for 20 years, including when he was playing rock and roll with the Twisters and Lonesome Strangers. Eventually I would go out to hear him play the blues locally and return every week to get more. It became a kind of religion for me.
“Mark’s spent some time living in San Antonio, Texas, and Las Vegas before returning to this area. The first eight songs on this CD were recorded at the Narrows Center for the Arts in Fall River when he opened up for the James Cotton Blues Band,” Weiss explains.
“Mark is a scholar of the blues, rooted in the acoustic Delta blues. He’s spent years observing, studying and practicing and has made it onto the blues charts alongside people like B.B. King and Shemekia Copeland. He’s very skilled.”
“Toys for Chaos,” by Grand Army: “This local band spent two years in the studio before they felt that this album was complete. They call it electronic rock and it’s been getting a lot of play on college radio. Almost 70 stations are playing it around the country, which is a lot because many colleges aren’t in session in the summer. The album includes two players who appeared on another WCS recording, ‘MM4,’ by the Marcus Monteiro Quartet — bassist Mike Jupin and keyboardist Jude Kingston.
“These people are all nice to deal with, and this recording is done extremely well. I’ve been going to see them for a long time and they’re very tight and original. This is a big step for the label to take, but it’s been worthwhile.”
“Golden Earrings,” by Joe Beck & Laura Theodore: “This was the final recording Beck did before his death last year. It’s the sixth album that we have released that includes a Beck performance. This is a collection of songs that were written and performed by Peggy Lee and her guitarist husband Roy Barbour. It’s an older style of jazz and they were aiming to bring it to Broadway. Laura approached me to put out this album in part as a tribute to Joe. The CD includes liner notes from popular jazz writer Bill Milkowski.”
Milkowski describes the recordings as “easy and organic … strictly in the moment … yet artfully executed.”
“Songs of the Sea: The Lovely Ernestina,” by the New Bedford Harbor Sea Chantey Chorus: “This came out in 2004 and has been our biggest-selling CD in the entire catalog. I was introduced to this recording by Tom Goux, director of the Sea Chantey Chorus, a New Bedford-based group of 35 singers who are all volunteers from the Ernestina. Half of the songs are performed by the Rum-Soaked Crooks. This album was recorded at the Unitarian Memorial Church in Fairhaven to raise money for the Ernestina, and it turned out to be a great marketing tool for them.”
David Reis is the co-host of “Music for Sunday,” a jazz program aired on WUMD-FM, the radio station at UMass Dartmouth. He says that he can trust that an album from Whaling City Sound will be quality, not only for the music but for the professional packaging as well.
“Neal has one of the classiest labels going,” Reis says. “When I see an album on Whaling City Sound I know that it’s going to be something good.”
Mike Clinco, a jazz guitarist from Los Angeles, agrees. His debut CD, “Neon,” was released in May on WCS.
“Neal surrounds himself with a great team and I’ve listened to people on his label such as Joe Beck, John Abercrombie, and Jerry Bergonzi. I was looking for a smaller label that would be easy to work with and so far Neal has helped put me on the map with positive reviews and radio airplay.”
Weiss is able to support the music he loves thanks to his success as a businessman — he is the president of Fiber Optic Center in downtown New Bedford, a high-tech distribution company that sells products all over the world. When Weiss initially started Whaling City Sound he vigorously supported the people making the music for the label. At first he funded their time in the recording studio, but eventually realized it was economically impractical and that he should spend his resources cultivating musicians from the business perspective, where they usually need the most help.
Today the WCS catalog has a total of 49 releases. The vast majority of the design work and packaging for the CDs comes from artist David Arruda Jr., an employee at Fiber Optics Center. The recordings can be purchased at Baker Books in Dartmouth, Borders Books and Barnes & Noble, and online at amazon.com, ITunes or Whalingcitysound.com.
“Neal Weiss is everything that a major record company should be,” says Kingston, keyboard player for Grand Army. “He’s not in it for the money, he just puts out the things he enjoys listening to. It’s nice to have his support for us as artists and not being someone who’s telling us what to sound like.”
In 2005, Weiss expanded his stable of artists to include local blues rockers Shipyard Wreck, releasing their debut, “Reflect and Shine.”
“Neal is a lover of music,” says Shipyard frontman Jim Gagne. “He took a risk to add a blues-rock band to his label and we were able to benefit from it. We’re hoping to work with him for our next record.”
Clinco feels the same way.
“I really think that I’ll be putting out my second CD with Whaling City. This has turned out to be a very positive experience.”
Marty Richards, drums; Cassandre McKinley, vocals; Dino Govoni, saxophone.
Gerry Gibbs, drums.
Music industry consultant and publicist Ginny Shea has garnered international exposure for her clients through radio and video promotion, print media, and her vast industry network.
