A Mirror and Focus for the Community January 2020 Vol. 36, No. 01 EARSHOT JAZZSeattle,

Beth Fleenor Photo by Daniel Sheehan LETTER FROM THE DIRECTOR NOMINATIONS S 2020 Vision Nominations Wanted: 2019 Golden Ear Awards Given the incredible growth in The Golden Ear Awards cel- jazz over the last 10 years—both ebrate the outstanding achieve- in global reach and sheer excel- ments of jazz artists lence—I’m optimistic about what over the previous year. Please we might see and hear from the email your nominations to art form in the coming decade. [email protected] by In fact, given that Seattle itself January 15. was the fastest growing city in In order to preserve the integ- America over the past 10 years, rity of the democratic process, with 114,000 new citizens bump- please, no ballot-stuffing. The- of ing our population up by 18.7%, ficial voting ballots for the 2019 I am equally optimistic about the awards will be printed in the potential upside for our city’s arts February issue of Earshot Jazz and cultural sensibilities. and available at earshot.org. Earshot Jazz is proud to hold a Send us your suggestions for: valuable place within Seattle’s remarkable cultural communi- NW Recording of the Year: ty. There is a civic value system around jazz here in Seattle that is unique in America. Building on that, we can’t wait to see how this next set NW Acoustic Jazz Ensemble of the of Roaring 20’s will evolve. We’ve certainly seen a lot of new faces at our Year: programs in recent years, and we’re glad to welcome a younger and more inclusive audience that is clearly interested in engaging with a broad spec- trum of cultural experiences. And you know that can’t be bad. Alternative Jazz Group of the Year: I, myself, first came around the Earshot Jazz organization as a new Se- attleite in 1990. The first event I attended was the very first Golden Ear Awards party, upstairs at the old Lofurno’s on 15th Ave W. The music was NW Concert of the Year: sweet, the vibe was warm and welcoming, and I remember being a little knocked out that there was an organization that would honor the jazz artists who were living and working in the city. Having attended every NW Jazz Instrumentalist of the Year: Golden Ear Awards event since then, I can admit to still being humbled by the artistry and dedication that surrounds us, and even more convinced of the importance of formally recognizing it. Emerging Artist of the Year: We’re excited about our circumstances in these coming years. We’re proud of the recent DownBeat magazine headline that says, “Earshot Serves as Platform for Thriving Seattle Scene,” and we resolve to redouble NW Vocalist of the Year: our work in support of the incredible ecosystem for jazz in this beautiful, fast-growing megabopolis. Please join us! Seattle Jazz Hall of Fame: –John Gilbreath, Executive Director

2 • EARSHOT JAZZ • January 2020 NOTES EARSHOT JAZZ A Mirror and Focus for the Jazz Community

Johnaye Kendrick Receives Online registration begins January Chamber Music Award Grant 2 at swojo.org. For more information Executive Director John Gilbreath Managing Director Karen Caropepe Congratulations to vocalist Johnaye contact [email protected]. Programs Manager Tara Peters Kendrick and all the other winners of FACE Foundation Call for Development Manager Errin Patton CMA’s Performance Plus grant. The Applications Marketing & Development Associate Lucienne award supports U.S.-based female-led Aggarwal FACE Foundation, in collabora- jazz ensembles by connecting them Earshot Jazz Editors Lucienne Aggarwal & tion with the Cultural Services of the with an experienced jazz artist-educa- Tara Peters French Embassy in the U.S., is re- tor for six evaluative listening sessions Contributing Writers Whitney Bashaw, Paul questing applications for their 2020- with the goal of enhancing the en- de Barros, Ian Gwin, Bryan Lineberry, 2021 Jazz & New Music Program. semble’s performance. Johnaye Kend- Rayna Mathis, Paul Rauch The program awards three differ- rick and her ensemble will be working ent grants: creative grants, residency Calendar Editors Carol Levin, Jane Emerson, with artist-educator Jim Knapp, who & Tara Peters grants, and touring grants for eligible is a renowned trumpeter, composer, Photography Daniel Sheehan projects jointly conceived with French and orchestrator. For more details visit Layout Tara Peters & Karen Caropepe and American musicians. Funding is Distribution Karen Caropepe, Dan Dubie & chamber-music.org. offered to American or French non- Earshot Jazz volunteers SWOJO 2020 Girls Jazz Band profit organizations who represent Send Calendar Information to: Program individual artists or ensembles. The [email protected] Seattle Women’s Jazz Orchestra application deadline is March 2. Visit Board of Directors Danielle Leigh (SWOJO) presents its 2020 Girls Jazz face-foundation.org for more details (President), Chris Icasiano (Vice President), and application. Chris Nutter (Secretary), Sheila Hughes Band program, from January 29– (Treasurer), John W. Comerford, Maurice March 25. The program is open to girls Sweeping Changes Proposed to James, Kenneth W. Masters, Gail Pettis, in middle school and above and offers Artist Visa Fees Ruby Smith Love, Diane Wah eight after-school workshop sessions The United States Citizenship and with a special concert to cap off the Emeritus Board Members Clarence Acox, Sue Immigration Services (USCIS) has Coliton, Taina Honkalehto, Hideo Makihara, course. All instruments are welcome. proposed fee increases and policy Peter Monaghan, Kenneth W. Masters, Lola Members of SWOJO will provide changes, which includes plans to in- Pedrini, Paul Toliver, Cuong Vu mentoring to help develop skills in jazz interpretation and improvisation. Founded in 1984 by Paul de Barros, Gary CONTINUED ON PAGE 18 Bannister, and Allen Youngblood. Earshot Jazz is published monthly and is available online at earshot.org.

Subscription (with membership): $35 3417 Fremont Ave N, #221 Seattle, WA 98103 All ages and levels. phone / (206) 547-6763 Earshot Jazz ISSN 1077-0984 Printed by Yakima Herald-Republic © 2020 Earshot Jazz Society of Seattle

MISSION STATEMENT To ensure the legacy and progression Want to play? You can. of the art form, Earshot Jazz cultivates a vibrant jazz community by engaging www.jazznightschool.org • (206) 722 6061 audiences, celebrating artists, and A nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, Jazz Night School does not discriminate on the basis of supporting arts education. race, color, gender, national or ethnic origin in administration of its educational policies.

January 2020 • EARSHOT JAZZ • 3 PROFILE Beth Fleenor: The Discipline of Being

By Paul Rauch on in my life,” she says. If one defines The music that artistry as a simple Fleenor has sensed expression of ar- within her from tistic ability, the the beginning is surface is barely a confluence of scratched in terms many turbulent of what motivates musical tributar- passion for that ies. It is the delta expression. If art- where improvisa- istry is defined as tion and composi- a discipline of be- tion flow together ing—as a way to into one powerful, find one’s pathway energetic flow. to self-realization “At my core, I’m and come to terms an improviser. with one’s own The best improvi- humanity—then sations sound like you’ve defined definitive compo- the day-to-day sitions, the best practice of sonic composed works sensory clarinet- BETH FLEENOR PHOTO BY DANIEL SHEEHAN are rendered with ist and vocalist the fire of an impro- Beth Fleenor nor referring to her instruments. It’s as visation, they’re inex- Fleenor has a tendency to gather if she is routinely setting foot in a tonal tricably linked. It’s not like there’s one her creative impulses over a period of universe previously undisturbed. or the other, in my opinion,” she says. time, and release them through her Though mostly inspired by guitar- Fleenor’s vocal style is a soul-deep two main projects: Crystal Beth and ists and drummers, Fleenor’s work on wail, developed long after her rela- the Boom Boom Band, and her solo bass clarinet draws on the language tionship with the clarinet was estab- persona as simply Crystal Beth. of her instrument’s contemporaries, lished. At a young age, Fleenor heard In both incarnations, Fleenor uses most notably, the late Eric Dolphy, artists like Frank Zappa who sparked her clarinet and bass clarinet as direct who died tragically at the age of 36. an interest in a new musical direction, extensions of herself, in ways that of- Fleenor dedicates a new composition igniting what was already dwelling fer an unexpected divergence from the to him entitled simply “Dolphy,” on dormant in her creative imagination. lineage of jazz or classical clarinetists. her new independent Crystal Beth re- “Oh, that’s it, she thought. “That’s the Employing electronics to create her lease, Push Thru merger of my two heads.” Making her own sonic universe, Fleenor has estab- “On my new record, there is a piece voice come to life however, required lished an unbeaten trail that fluctuates ‘Dolphy’, which is completely for him. some serious soul searching. between electronic modernism and I wrote it around my 36th birthday, “I gave myself permission to sing in neo-acoustic virtuosity. because I was having that realization public for the first time in 2007. It was “It’s an extension of me as much as of where I am in the process. Here’s bursting to come out. There’s a huge any other part of my body,” says Flee- what I’m doing and here’s what’s going range of emotion that you can get to

4 • EARSHOT JAZZ • January 2020 with the human voice that is different rediscovering her sound and—in do- Seattle felt as if it were simply meant than with the instrument,” she recalls. ing so—creating something beautiful to be. Since that first vocal performance, with it. “There’s a revolutionary commu- Fleenor has developed her own syl- “I started studying with Denney, nity here, of people being themselves labic language to perform with, re- right after my nerve damage when I and being able to be themselves,” she moving repetitive lyricism from the returned to Seattle after two years of states emphatically. musical premise. recovery. It was a moment of ‘the stu- The audience for Fleenor’s music “I sing in a syllabic language that’s dent’s ready, so the master appears.’ spans the fertile rock scene in Se- my own intentionally, because we have His understanding of what I was going attle, the engaged experimental and all these associations with words and through physically, as well as the fire improvised music community, and what they mean. I bypass that and and passion that was there internally the vibrant modern jazz scene. She is go straight to the emotional center,” unable to make its way out, handed as much herself as any artist can be. she explains. me all the tools to open all the gates While she is undoubtedly blessed with Fleenor’s artistic vision is like a huge and let it come through,” she recalls a wondrous sound, great facility, and universal embrace of what she remem- thoughtfully. uncommon intuition, her projects are bers, what she knows is certain, and Fleenor received her alternative truly driven by an impressive fear- what she can sense is beyond her un- identity of Crystal Beth from com- lessness. It’s a fearlessness that is torn derstanding. She spent her summers as ments made by friends referring to down to the studs. Artistically, it shifts a child with her father, the curator of a her vibrant energy and her relentless from space to space, from shape to planetarium in South Florida. In many drive and discipline as an artist. It’s shape strongly, while revealing a cer- ways, the vastness of the universe and an identity she can relate to and find tain vulnerability. It’s the thread that its creative potential was gifted to her solace within. ties, the discipline of being, from emo- within the confines of one small room. “I feel like people need a way to deal tional center to artistic output. That open mindedness accompanied with themselves so that we can deal her to Seattle and her studies at Cor- with each other. For me, Crystal Beth nish College of the Arts, in particular is how I deal with myself. It’s how I those with Seattle saxophone legend, stay healthy. It’s just a way to get right Crystal Beth & the Boom Boom Denney Goodhew. with myself.” she says. Band perform Thursday, January Fleenor had left Seattle to recover Fleenor’s decision to stay and make 23 at the Columbia City Theater. from a medical condition that affected Seattle her home came from her feel- Crystal Beth (solo) performs at nerve activity in her jaw, severely im- ing that the city accepts humanity on the Art Martyrs Showcase on pacting her ability to play with any its own terms and allows its inhabit- Saturday, January 25 at the semblance of proper embouchure. ants to be who they are in an uninhib- Sunset Tavern. Goodhew guided her on the path to ited fashion. For Fleenor, discovering

January 2020 • EARSHOT JAZZ • 5 PREVIEW >> Cry & Roar X: 10 Years of Racer Sessions

LORI GOLDSTON PHOTO BY DANIEL SHEEHAN RAY LARSEN PHOTO BY DANIEL SHEEHAN

In this industrious city where cultur- Bad Art Museum of Art) to catch up Cry & Roar X: Celebrating al erosion is becoming the norm, and with friends, or plot a conspiracy with 10 Years of Racer Sessions every year it feels more pronounced creative folks who care about the art than the last, Café Racer is a treasured of it all. Friday, January 24 oasis that feels like an almost perfectly There are several creative communi- Cry & Roar X jarring juxtaposition with Seattle’s re- ties that come together for collective lentless path of growth. A path that creative engagement here, and among 8pm finds itself becoming increasingly ac- them is one of the most welcoming, $10+ at the door customed to importing character rath- adventurous, and open-sourced mu- All Ages er than cultivating it. sic incubators in the city: a free im- Saturday, January 25 Visually, Racer is home to a dazzling provisation and creative music session curation of clashing oddities. There called Racer Sessions. On any given Cry & Roar X you’ll find art on the walls, plenty of Sunday at 8pm at these sessions, one 8pm trinkets one might find at a travelling can find Seattle’s finest creative musi- $10+ at the door flea market, plastic bottles upcycled cians side-by-side with curious sonic Sunday, January 26 to become lamp shades, and even an explorers to freely improvise music out N64. As a space, it has an open-con- of thin air without pretext; even com- Racer Session featuring No Baby cept stage adjacent to the bar that hosts bining at times with movement and 8pm an infinity of shows, literary readings, lyrical artists. As always, free and open to and dance performances. If attendees This January, Racer Sessions will be the public are not up for a performance or look- celebrating the 10th Anniversary of All Ages ing for a break, they can just head up- its staple experimental and new music stairs to the OBAMA Room (Official festival, Cry & Roar.

6 • EARSHOT JAZZ • January 2020 For two holy nights, Friday January 24th and Saturday January 25th, Cry and Roar will take over all of Café Racer’s connecting spaces to create an immersive environment that ex- plodes with unbridled creativity and expression. And capping off the week- end will be a special Racer Session on Presented by Sunday January 26th featuring local power trio No Baby, comprised of dancer/choreographer Allison Burke, Archie Shepp Branford Marsalis multi-instrumentalist Joe Oakes, Thundercat David Sanborn and former Thunderpussy drummer Ghost-Note Larry Carlton Ruby Lucinda. John Medeski Kenny Barron Kenny Garrett Terry Riley This year’s Cry and Roar producers Antibalas Mark de Clive-Lowe Haley Freedlund, Chris Icasiano, and Stanton Moore Trio Donald Harrison, Evan Woodle have put together a col- Kat Edmonson Mike Clark & Wil Blades Trio lection of performances that showcase Terrace Martin Stanley Jordan and elevate the music pioneers that Stanley Jordan Omar Sosa & have helped grow this unique scene Tuck & Patti Yilian Cañizares from its inception, as well as more Eric Gales James Francies recent torch bearers who continue to NOLATET Miguel Zenón push the art and community forward. Kandace Springs Quartet Included in this year’s festival line- Mark Guiliana Georgia Anne Muldrow up will be the likes of Casey Adams, Aaron Goldberg Dan Tepfer Amelia Coulter, Gregg Keplinger, Ray Liv Warfield Jaimie Branch Ron Artis II Larsen, Jason McGill, Ted Poor; an and the Truth Halie Loren improvised string quartet featuring Jonathan Barber María Grand Lori Goldston, Noel Kennon, John & Vision Ahead Gunhild Carling Kassa Overall Teske, and Janna Webbon; Bad Luck; Douyé and movement artists Jocelyn Beausire and Kate O’Day. Racers Sessions has persevered through much during its decade-long tenure. Among them, a rapidly chang- ing city, tragedy, changing of guards, Café Racer’s temporary closure and its transfer to new ownership—the won- derfully Seattle-spirited Jeff and Cin- dy Ramsey. This Cry and Roar will be a full-circle celebration for what has become a testament to the power of community through art, in all its overflowing character. A beautiful re- minder that the creative soul is alive and blossoming and is welcome to all FEBRUARY 19 – MARCH 1 who seek it. Full lineup and tickets at pdxjazz.com

–Bryan Lineberry PDX Jazz thanks our major partners

January 2020 • EARSHOT JAZZ • 7 VENUE PROFILE Pacific Room Alki Offers New Space for Jazz Artists and Audiences

lulu as executive chef to the establish- ment, meaning there’s a lot of seafood on the menu. While Pacific Room has an elevated menu and classed-up atmosphere, it maintains a casual, come-as-you-are vibe. It is the beach, after all. In the front, floor-to-ceiling windows dis- play an expansive view of Elliott Bay and at the back, the band plays on a small stage cloaked in layers of black curtains. Perched at the end of the bar, I over- heard neighboring barflies strike up a conversation about the music. Tula’s is mentioned with sadness, in reverence but also in joy that something has ris- NANCY ERICKSON PHOTO COURTESY OF THE ARTIST en to take its place. On a Saturday in early December, I Jonny Gonzalez, Pacific Room’s mu- Weekends are for ticketed, higher visited the Pacific Room Alki for a per- sic programming director, is seeing production musical acts, and most of- formance by jazz singer Nancy Erick- to it that jazz artists find a home on ten jazz. During the week, the Pacific son. It was a typical cold Seattle winter Alki Beach. Room has free happy hour jazz shows, night: the rain fell at a steady pace as “It’s super unfortunate that Tula’s singer songwriting competitions and winter whipped itself into a frenzy. But closed and I’m very disappointed in rotating music of all genres on Thurs- inside the Pacific Room, a restaurant that,” Gonzalez said. “But it was nice days, Sundays and Mondays. But shaped like a lower-case “g” hugging a for us to have a space to offer to jazz whether it’s a ticketed or free event, long marble topped bar, jazz kept the musicians to say ‘Hey, we have a new musicians are set up with a state-of- atmosphere warm and intimate. place that you can come and adopt’ so the-art sound system, marketing assis- Having only started booking acts that’s definitely one of the goals: to be tance and . this year, the Pacific Room Alki is a new jazz-specific room a lot of the So far, performers within the jazz quickly becoming a staple for live time, and for it to be our main focus.” community have been enthusiastic Jazz in Seattle, especially since the Gonzalez said the goal is to not only about Pacific Room’s programming. heart-wrenching closure of Tula’s in book musicians, but to offer them sup- Jacqueline Tabor, local jazz chan- September. port and resources to succeed. teuse and Earshot recipient of Vocalist In many ways, the restaurant venue The restaurant opened in June 2019 of the Year, told Earshot Jazz she “ap- is hoping to regenerate Tula’s legacy. with dreams of becoming an upscale- preciates and adores the Pacific Room” It began booking weekly ticketed jazz casual restaurant for West Seattle in part because of the support they of- acts and developing a relationship with locals and beach visitors. Before its fer musicians and that it came along as Seattle’s Jazz community just as Tula’s opening, a succession of divey sports a venue “just in time.” announced its Belltown rent had be- bars had occupied the real estate at “I do especially appreciate how Jonny come too high to sustain. 2806 Alki SW. Owner Kurt Niemeyer introduced the band and made sure enlisted Warren Akana from Hono- to remind the audience that this was

8 • EARSHOT JAZZ • January 2020 a listening space and to keep conver- the community that supports the neighbors, especially in winter. But sations to a minimum,” Tabor says. city’s music. the trek is well worth it. The music is “It really set the tone for the evening “We want to capture audience and excellent, the vibe is casual, the food and allowed me to be able to truly per- community respect,” General Man- is good, the staff kind and knowledge- form and entertain the audience in an ager Tiffany Louie said. able. It checks all of the boxes for an honest way.” Gonzalez promised a lot of move- intimate supper club and a plus as a Erickson, who performed on that ment in 2020, as well, including mini “getaway.” rainy night in December, echoed those KNKX-sponsored events and booking “People are keeping us in their pock- sentiments and was happy to see such touring jazz acts. et, so to speak,” Gonzalez said of the a jazz-loving crowd. “We’re definitely wanting to open it response to the restaurant. “I hear the “It’s a listening room, which is rare, up to any and all of the best, especially term ‘hidden gem’ from our clientele I’m excited for it as a venue,” Erickson jazz,” he said. a lot.” said between sets. For the locals of West Seattle and –Whitney Bashaw In this way, it seems Pacific Room Alki Beach, this is their best-kept new For more information including up- Alki is succeeding in what it set out secret, especially in the off-season. It’s coming events calendar, visit pacific- to do: provide a beautiful space for a little further afield for its easterly city roomalki.com. MARIA SCHNEIDER ORCHESTRA Friday April 24, 7:30pm Town Hall Seattle 1119 Eighth Ave

The NEA Jazz Master leads her all-star New York City big band

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT EARSHOT.ORG

Photo by Daniel Sheehan

January 2020 • EARSHOT JAZZ • 9 FEATURE Recurring Jazz Series

From the hidden nooks and intimate house concerts to the larger collaborative efforts between community busi- nesses and city arts organizations, jazz is found in abundance all over the Puget Sound. Here is a glimpse into the broad diversity of concert series available in the region, many of them free of charge. Did we miss your favorite se- ries? Let us know by emailing [email protected].

ALEX DUGDALE PHOTO BY DANIEL SHEEHAN JOHNAYE KENDRICK PHOTO BY DANIEL SHEEHAN

family friendly concert series that has ence. With such a rich line up on the JazzLIVE at Marine View established itself as a staple experience way, and more to be announced soon, of the jazz scene in the Seattle-Taco- be sure to stay up to date atmarinev- Second Sundays ma area. Coming up on January 12, iewpc.org for more information! 5–7pm widely celebrated trumpeter and sev- 8469 East Side Drive NE, Tacoma en-time Earshot Golden Ear Award re- cipient, Thomas Marriott and quartet JazzVox House Concert Showcasing some of the PNW’s most kick off the 2020 series. On February notable jazz musicians in Northeast Series 9, electric violinist, the Geoffrey Cas- Tacoma, Marine View Presbyterian tle Band will blow your pew away. On Church’s JazzLIVE series enters its March 8, jazz vocalist and one of the Various Dates eleventh year under the steward- most remarkable artists on the scene, Various Locations ship of longtime church member and the Greta Matassa Quintet (Darin Is there a better way to enjoy music founder of the series, Jim Foster. For Clendenin, piano; bassist Clipper An- than in a cozy home setting with an over a decade on every second Sunday derson; Mark Ivester, drums; Alexey intimate audience, delicious food, and of the month from 5–7pm, JazzLIVE Nikolaev, tenor sax) will trill and perhaps a glass of wine? JazzVox is the has continued to be a free, all-ages and croon for the eager Marine View audi- brainchild of enthusiast, Nich Ander-

10 • EARSHOT JAZZ • January 2020 The Black/White Chord Shape System for Jazz Piano and Improvisation A Fresh Vision & Language for the Organization of Jazz Chord Voicings and Improvisation Detailing the Jazz Pedagogy Legacy of the Great Jerome Gray!

by Larry Kee

417 pages spiral bound

Now $34.95 at Amazon.com

Earshot Jazz reader discount available, email [email protected] before you buy!

THOMAS MARRIOTT PHOTO BY DANIEL SHEEHAN son, on a mission to bring audiences for a special evening, Art of Jazz has and artists to homes across greater Se- presented a dynamic and versatile line- attle, Camano Island and Bainbridge. up for 25 years. Sponsored by KNKX JazzVox creates unparalleled, personal and in partnership with Seattle Art experiences by bringing jazz vocalists Museum, Earshot Jazz proudly pres- from around the world to the Pacific ents a jazz series every second Thurs- Northwest. Now in its 13th season, day of the month at 5:30pm that is this year’s JazzVox series will feature free and open to the public. In the performances from David Ryan Har- heart of downtown Seattle, guests ris January 10–12 (sold out!), the Dar- gather underneath artist John Grade’s mon Meader Trio January 25–26, gargantuan sculpture, Middle Fork, to Jesse Ruben on February 9, John bask in the illustrious sounds that waft Proulx & Champian Fulton Febru- melodiously from the Brotman Forum ary 21–23, Gabe Dixon March 7–8, to the galleries above. and Emily Scott Robinson on March Come downtown after work for the 29. This wildly popular program has first show of the New Year on January 9 limited seating, so do reserve tickets with some of the freshest talent on the in advance to guarantee a spot! For a rise, DX-Tet, a collaborative project of complete list of artists and locations, pianist and composer, Dylan Hayes visit jazzvox.com. and drummer, Xavier Lecouturier. Saxophonist Alex Dugdale performs on February 13. Singer, songwriter, Art of Jazz and siren Johnaye Kendrick performs on March 12. And on April 9, the su- pergroup MMJB, composed of Rick Second Thursdays Mandyck (saxophone), Thomas Mar- 5:30–7:30pm riott (), Jeff Johnson (bass), 1300 First Ave, Seattle and John Bishop (drums) April 9. Bringing the worlds of jazz enthusi- Stay up-to-date on upcoming perfor- asts and museum-goers into one room mances at earshot.org.

January 2020 • EARSHOT JAZZ • 11 SMACKTALK PHOTO BY AUSTIN FIELDS First Sundays Concerts Musicians bring the works of Brahms tors, and students with opportunities & Debussy to the homes and hearts to listen and play jazz, with the sup- of audiences at the penultimate show port of local businesses and the City First Sundays of the season. Closing out the season of Bellingham. On January 8, Blues 4pm on November 8 is Flamenco duo, Eric Union plays a free show at the Rock- 370 Brien Dr SE, Bainbridge Island and Encarnación. For more informa- fish Anacortes with bandleader, key- Held at Bainbridge Island’s Water- tion on ticketing, prices, and perfor- boardist, and vocalist John Carswell, front Park Community Center, eight mance times, visit firstsundayscon- Josh Cook (tenor saxophone), Brian professional concerts of jazz and classi- certs.org. Cunningham (guitar), and Sherwood cal music are presented year-round in (drums). Carswell who has shared partnership with the Bainbridge Com- the stage with the royalty of R&B munity Piano Association. Despite the Vashon Allied Arts Jazz and blues, including Aretha Franklin, First Sundays Concerts losing its fear- Series B.B. King, Tower of Power, and Ray less founder, Darden Burns, this last Charles. The Bellingham Youth Jazz summer, the series continues into its Band has 1–2 shows scheduled every 15th year and celebrates the passion Various Dates month between January and June. and commitment Burns poured into 19600 Vashon Hwy SW, Vashon Aspiring musicians can attend the the series. Jazz pianist Bill Anschell 2020 events have not yet been an- Jazz Project’s weekly jam session at takes the New Year by storm with his nounced. Check vashoncenterforth- Illuminati Brewing, Thursdays 5:30– celebrated Standards Trio on Janu- earts.org for details. 8pm, January through August. ary 5. Harpsichordist and organist, The Jazz Project’s Art of Jazz series Henry Lebedinksy and his Baroque runs the last Sunday of each month Trio play for the island on February The Jazz Project (January–May and September–No- 9. The Greta Matassa Quintet rocks vember) with evening concerts, while the boat on March 1. Taking a break their Summer Jazz series runs on the Various Dates, from Ohio to come back home for a second Sundays of June, July, and Au- Various Locations, Bellingham First Sunday show is classical pianist, gust at the Samson Estate Winery. Frank Huang on April 5. The Mark Bellingham’s Jazz Project was con- Their annual Bellhaven Jazz Festival Lewis Quartet alongside, Bill An- ceived in 1997 by drummer and com- takes place in September. While many schell on piano takes the stage on May munity leader, Jud Sherwood, who of the events are free (and many are so 3, then with Kokopelli picking up founded The Jazz Project with the goal with membership), $10 donations are from a summer break on September to promote jazz from a player’s perspec- suggested at each show to continue to 6. On October 4, Seattle Symphony tive, linking local performers, educa- support the artists, educational oppor-

12 • EARSHOT JAZZ • January 2020 gust 16. Greta Matassa concludes the 2020 season on October 18. Jazz in the City also co-presents con- certs with the Triple Door, and the upcoming show on February 12 with The Folks Project featuring D’Vonne Lewis, Darrius Willrich, and Evan Flory-Barnes is not one to miss! For more information on upcoming Jazz in the City events, tickets, and perfor- mance times stay up to date on ariel- media.com.

Jazz Unlimited

CHAMPIAN FULTON PHOTO BY PIERRE NADLER XAVIER LECOUTURIER PHOTO BY STEVE KORN Various Dates 12037 124th Ave NE, Kirkland tunities, and local businesses that help emphasizing local artists. Sponsored Though there are only 88 keys on forge what the Jazz Project stands for by Ariel Media, a multimedia compa- a piano, the musical possibilities are and embodies. For more information ny servicing Seattle, Tacoma, and Ev- unlimited; Jazz Unlimited and Stage about how you can support and learn erett, founded by Dr. James Gore (cre- 7 present monthly gigs to con- more about other projects visit, jazz- ator of the Jackson Street Music Pro- firm that belief. With the Steinway D project.org. gram); Jazz in the City partners with concert grand always on the recital the Frye Art Museum to present free, stage, local artists find the infinite -mu bi-monthly concerts. The Songstress of sical possibilities of their instruments Jazz in the City the Sound, Eugenie Jones performs as they connect with their audiences on February 16. Saxophonist, Kareem in an intimate listening room. Kicking Kandi, captures the sounds of jazz Various Dates off the 2020 series on January 18 with on April 19. The summer welcomes Various Locations her sultry sounds is Greta Matassa soulful baritone vocalist, Reggie Go- at the Stage 7 Piano’s venue in Kirk- Jazz in the City celebrates the vibran- ings on June 21 and Brazilian master land. $15 cash cover with free parking. cy and longevity of jazz music in Se- pianist, Jovino Santos Neto on Au- attle through an annual concert series

January 2020 • EARSHOT JAZZ • 13 For information on upcoming perfor- October–June from 6–8pm and are piano and vocals; Daniel Barry, trum- mances, visit stage7pianos.com. open to the public. These donation- pet; Dean Schmidt, bass; Steve Smith, based performances take the form of congas; Ricardo Guity, drums and vo- an initial set, followed by a short non- cals. Trombonist Randy Oxford leads Seattle Jazz Vespers sectarian inspirational message, and a the Randy Oxford Band on March 1. second set, with light refreshments fol- Then the young and talented Smack- lowing. Enveloped in the acoustics of Talk take the reins for a rock-jazz First Sundays this historic sanctuary, fans of all ages infused performance on April 5. The 6–8pm can enjoy an evening of devotion to jazz family led, gypsy jazz band Ranger 1111 Harvard Ave, Seattle and the community it inspires. Multi- and the “Re-Arrangers” will surely The Seattle Jazz Vespers—now in its instrumentalist, Jay Thomas and his captivate audiences on May 3. And fi- 18th season at the Seattle First Baptist Organic Quartet (Scott Lytle, organ; nally, multi-genre fusionist, Rob Hart Church—is a secular concert series for Steve Griggs, saxophone; Milo Peters- Trio (Hart, drums; Greg Sankovitch, those who love jazz with an inspira- en, drums) take the stage on January piano; Doug Pohorski, bass) perform tional message. The concerts occur on 5. On February 9, the Clave Gringa on June 7. For information on addi- the first Sunday of the month during Quartet perform with Ann Reynolds, tional concerts in the coming months, visit seattlefirstbaptist.org.

Whatcom Jazz Music Arts Center

Wednesdays 7pm FEB 13 205 Prospect St, Bellingham Tim Berne & Matt Mitchell Connecting rising and established FEB 18 jazz musicians across the nation, Whatcom Jazz Music Arts Center Jaimie Branch: Fly or Die (WJMAC) has created an environ- FEB 29 ment where mentorship, community, and creativity flourish harmoniously Miguel Zenón Quartet all year long. Founded in 2015 by MAR 1 drummer and educator Julian Mac- Donough, WJMAC hosts jazz events Dayna Stephens highlighting top Northwest musicians w/ Ben Street & Eric Harland Wednesday evenings at 7pm at the Syl- via Center for the Arts in Bellingham. MAR 7 Launching the 2020 series is jazz pia- Ted Poor nist, Bill Anschell and trio (Jeff John- son, bass; D’Vonne Lewis, drums) hit APR 18 on January 8. Visit wjmac.org for more Tigran Hamasyan information on tickets and upcoming performances, including saxophonist APR 24 Kate Olson’s Ensemble on January Maria Schneider Orchestra 15, the Matt Jorgensen Quintet on January 29, and the young, drum- APR 30 mer exploding on the scene: Xavier Ab Baars Dayna Stephens photo by Schorle Lecouturier Quartet on February 19. For more information visit wjmac.org. tickets and info at earshot.org –Rayna Mathis

14 • EARSHOT JAZZ • January 2020 FOR THE RECORD

Sara Gazarek one of her signature pieces, which Thirsty Ghost combines the Nick Drake song, “Riverman,” with a poem by Sara Self-Released Teasdale, features haunting bass Seattle fans don’t need to be told clarinet. To pianist Brad Mehldau’s about the sparking vocalist and pulsating “Distant Storm,” she adds Roosevelt High School graduate lyrics about how painful storms Sara Gazarek, but now the great lead to beautiful blossoms. Gaza- wide world has recognized her, rek talk-sings Hoagy Carmichael’s bigtime, with two, well-deserved bravely fronting “I Get Along With- Grammy nominations for Thirsty out You Very Well” so convincingly Ghost. Up for best jazz vocal al- you feel like you’re inside her mind bum and best instrumental-and- and her halting jazz version of the vocal arrangement (for an inven- Parton classic rises to a torrential tive reimagination of Dolly Par- climax. On the haunting “Gaslight ton’s “Jolene”), Thirsty Ghost is a District,” she muses, with and with- profound departure from the sunny, ing, atmospheric album of often dark out words, about dishonesty and cheerful persona Gazarek has project- tracks that mix jazz, pop, folk-rock deception. Gazarek doesn’t abandon ed throughout most of her career. and art song. her jaunty jazz past entirely, applying Encouraged by Kurt Elling (who On a wrenching rendition of Sam the raspberry tang of her voice to key- sings on the moving final track, “Dis- Smith’s pining ballad of infidelity, board man Larry Goldings’ swinging tant Storm”) to dig more deeply, and “Not the Only One,” Gazarek falls “Easy Love.” But for the most part, on the rebound from a nasty divorce off notes with a sigh. On Björk’s “Co- this is a whole new ball game, and it and disastrous love affair, Gazarek has coon,” she creates a moody, ambient looks like the start of a winning streak. come up with a wondrous, question- feel, using her clear soprano as a word- –Paul de Barros less instrument. A new arrangement of

Kelley Johnson wit that fit the bittersweet mood of Something Good tunes like “Something Good.” On another old hat, “Lullaby of OA2 Records Birdland,” the two restage the song Consisting of mostly lesser- closer to a lullaby than its usually known standards and a few re- done, followed by a sophisticated tuned classics, vocalist Kelley duet between Johnson and Michael Johnson’s Something Good lives up Glynn (bass). Multi-instrumental- to its title with a set of vocalist- ist mastermind Jay Thomas, who trio arrangements that offer crisp, makes a number of solo appear- clean lines. Listeners coming to the ances, comes in afterwards on the recording by chance, invited in by soprano with a few of his own bird its warmth and atmosphere, might calls. Often doubling bass lines with notice the hints of laughter and the Hansen to contrast the singer’s so- clink of glasses that add to the live stated trio arrangements match the prano, Glynn rounds off a rhythm recording like specks of dust in a sepia precision of Johnson’s tone and her section smooth as a smoking jacket, photograph. careful ear for simple but eloquent and as deep in the pocket too. Kend- Much credit goes to Johnson—also decoration. Hansen provides an el- rick Scott (drums) plays a key role in an award-winning local teacher—and egant foil and frame for the vocalist’s the groups’ dynamics, fearlessly build- pianist, John Hansen, whose under- jewel of a voice, offering flashes of sly ing subtle contrast under the singer. On “Some Other Time” Scott strik-

January 2020 • EARSHOT JAZZ • 15 FOR THE RECORD ingly conveys the song’s third-act cli- played over a Cuban ostinato, or max with a flourish of enormous fills guajeo. An intricate trumpet counter and spontaneous rhumbas. melody weaves its way through the It’s these moments of well-earned piece, expressing the roots of the Af- release that renew the careful ar- ro-Cuban forms that make up a large rangements on Something Good the piece of the jazz firmament. “Ferec’a” most. As the scat-soloing on the brief again displays Miranda’s penchant for “You For Me” attests, Johnson and playing out on the edge of a melody her band take on the challenge of the while virtually recreating it harmoni- short form that reward those ordering cally. up front, just as much those working The original compositions on the at the back of the bar. album were penned by Valera and vo- –Ian Gwin calist Coco Freeman, a lifelong friend from Cuba now residing in Miami. Kiki Valera Freeman’s range, dynamism, and per- however, a freedom and modern vir- Vivencias en Clave Cubana fect call and response work with coro tuosity that speaks to Valera’s personal is the perfect counterbalance for Val- Origin Records experiences in life and music in Cuba, era’s sense of harmony and vibrant solo and now, in the Pacific Northwest. On The legacy of Cuban cuatro master work. “Desenfreno” for example, he launches With Vivencias en Clave Cubana, Kiki Valera began with one of the into an octave solo that conjures no- most influential bands in the history Valera and Freeman deliver with a joy- tions of Wes Montgomery, one of the ous, virtuosic romp of expertly penned of Son Cubano—La Familia Valera many American jazz artists that have Miranda. The current Seattle resident music performed with passion. Son influenced him. It seems a logical step Cubano, much like American jazz, has has released an album of twelve origi- forward, all the while expressing the nal compositions on the highly regard- been in a constant state of evolution Son tradition that evolved from Span- from its beginnings. Valera continues ed Origin Records label. ish and African influences in the Ca- Valera’s innovative approach to im- in that spirit, shedding new and mod- ribbean. ern light on the music. provisation is well within the Son “El Perro de Juan,” is a hard-hitting tradition, the music and dance of the dance number, featuring Valera’s solo –Paul Rauch eastern hill country of Cuba. There is

Seattle Drum School of Music We offer quality private instruction for instrumentalists and vocalists of all ages and experience levels. We are pleased to welcome new instructors to our staff:  Alex Dugdale (saxophone, clarinet, trumpet)  Darrius Willrich (piano, voice)  Qiuchen Wang (vibraphone, marimba, piano, drums) *Gift Certificates available NOW for the holidays* For more information, please contact us directly at: (206) 364-8815 - [email protected] - www.seattledrumschool.com

16 • EARSHOT JAZZ • January 2020 FOR THE RECORD

Marina Albero Agua consists of nine improvised the Edge” features the fine reed work A Life Soundtrack pieces created in the moment. While of Hans Teuber, seemingly the perfect the music is fully improvised, it flows foil for the intrepid pianist. Spinning Self-Released melodically and freely from Albero’s and twisting within a sense of libera- Since arriving in Seattle from her na- potent imagination. It seems as though tion, the melody itself gives life to in- tive Barcelona, pianist Marina Albero Albero taps into memories vividly re- tuitive soloing by Albero, Teuber and has built a legion of fans eagerly called, giving them life in real time. Johnson. “I thought I Knew” begins anticipating a recording from the with Albero’s piano intro joined intrepid pianist. That time has at cohesively by Teuber on . last arrived. The movements within the piece With her three CD release, A reflect Albero’s connection to Life Soundtrack, Albero makes classical music, artistically en- up for lost time. The album is hanced by the innate freedoms presented as three volumes: Al- within flamenco and jazz forms. bero, Agua, and Music is Love, the The intricate brush and cymbal latter being representative of her work of D’Vonne Lewis opens working band in Seattle over the the door to an explosive exchange past five years. between Albero and Teuber, as Albero is a 2014 recording cen- well as a shared solo by Lewis tering on her talented family and and percussionist Jeff Busch. friends in Barcelona. She teams Albero is an artist that pos- with flamenco vocalist Alba Car- sesses great originality, imagina- mona for “Mi Secreto,” with Al- tion, and presence. Her music is bero’s winding, physical piano a multicultural mosaic pushed to supporting Carmona’s unbridled, the edge of discovery by the jazz chant-like narrative. “Indian Jam” re- Music Is Love is performed with her tradition. A Life Soundtrack reaches veals Albero on psalterium, revealing a current working band, with the excep- back in time, and delivers us into the completely different aspect to Albero’s tion of a free interpretation of Miles present of Albero’s brilliance. expressionism. Davis’ “Nardis” in a duo setting with –PR bassist Jeff Johnson. “The Sweetness of

ART OF JAZZ DX-TET THU JAN 9, 5:30 – 7:30 PM

Dylan Hayes and Xavier Lecouturier, present original arrangements drawing from hip hop, pop, funk, and jazz.

Have some art with your jazz, SAM is open until 9 pm.

Seattle Art Museum, Brotman Forum 1300 First Avenue Sponsored by Free and open to the public visitsam.org/performs

Photo: Lisa Hagen Glynn

January 2020 • EARSHOT JAZZ • 17 Notes, from page 3

crease many of its filing fees, includ- On the Horizon ing those for artist visa applications, 2020 Biamp PDX Jazz Fest filed by nonprofit art organizations. February 19–March 1 These fees will make it costlier for Varies venues, Portland, Oregon international artists to obtain visas, Archie Shepp, Branford Marsalis, create severe processing delays, and Kandace Springs, David Sanborn, endanger planned performances and María Grand, Miguel Zenón, Kenny events. The Department of Home- Barron, John Medeski, Kat Edmonson land Security (DHS) is inviting public and Halie Loren, Antibalalas, Georgia comment on its plans to increase its Anne Muldrow, Wil Blades, and many filing fees. Chamber Music America more. Full schedule, information, and (CMA) has signed on to comments tickets available at pdxjazz.com. objecting the specific changes outlined in this proposal. For more details visit Seattle Opera: ’s Yardbird February 22–March 7 uscis.gov and read “An Invisible Wall” Seattle Opera will present an opera in the fall issue of Chamber Music at that celebrates legendary jazz musi- chamber-america.org. Open to All - Free cian and bebop innovator Charlie CMA New Jazz Works Parker’s life and music. With music th Season Applications are now open for by Daniel Schnyder and the libretto 18 Chamber Music America’s New Jazz composed by Bridgette A. Wimberly, Works program. Grants are provided the opera explores Parker’s desire to to professional U.S-based jazz en- meld the classical and jazz idioms. sembles to create, perform, and record Performances take place at McCaw new works. Ensembles consisting of Hall. For more details and tickets visit 2–10 musicians may apply with any seattleopera.org. ensemble member eligible to create Lionel Hampton Jazz Fest the composition. CMA is committed February 28–29 to diversity, inclusion, and equity. Ap- University of Idaho, Moscow, ID Sunday, Jan 5, 6pm plications are due February 7, and are Joshua Redman, The Lionel Hamp- available at chamber-music.org. ton Big Band, Amy Shook, Erik Ap- Jay Thomas’ Featured Community Event: Olli plegate, Kate Skinner, Brian Claxton, Hirvonen New Helsinki and Dan and more. More information at uida- Organic Quartet ho.edu/class/Jazzfest. Phelps at The Royal Room Jay Thomas, trumpet/sax/flute The 35th Annual Seattle Improvised Music Scott Lytle, organ Olli Hirvonen, a Finnish guitarist Festival Steve Griggs, saxophone now Brooklyn-based leads his NYC March 11–15 Milo Petersen, drums group New Helsinki, in support of First organized by the late Paul their new album Displace (Rope- Hoskin, the Seattle Improvised Mu- SAVE THE DATE: February 9 adope). Accompanying Hirvonen are sic Festival (SIMF) brings together Clave Gringa Quintet Luke Marantz (piano), Marty Ken- the most innovative improvisers from ney (bass), and Nathan Ellman-Bell the eclectic scene. Now in its 35th year, 100 Minutes of professional jazz (drums). Local Bainbridge Island gui- Family friendly concert / Free parking SIMF is the longest-running festival in tarist Dan Phelps opens. The concert the United States dedicated solely to takes place January 21, 8pm at The Seattle First Baptist Church music that is completely improvised. 1111 Harvard Avenue Royal Room. For more information More information at nseq.org. (Seneca and Harvard on First Hill) visit theroyalroomseattle.com. Seattle, WA (206) 325-6051 www.SeattleJazzVespers.org/GO/SJV

18 • EARSHOT JAZZ • January 2020 Swing Central Finalist–South early 2020. Upcoming concerts in-

Whidbey High School clude: February 13, Tim Berne & Congratulations to South Whid- Matt Mitchell; February 18, Jaimie The Bass Church The Bass Church The Bass Church Branch; February 29, Miguel Zenón The Northwest specialists The Northwest double bass specialists The Northwest double bass specialists bey High School Jazz Ensemble from Langley WA for being chosen as a fi- Quartet; March 1 Dayna Stephens w/ www.basschurch.com www.basschurch.com www.basschurch.com nalist in the Swing Central Music Fes- Ben Street & Eric Harland; March 7, tival. The festival is a three-day work- Ted Poor; April 18, Tigran Hamasy- shop and competition with a collective an; April 24, NEA Jazz Master Maria approach to big band jazz instruction. Schneider and her all-star New York Sales, Rentals, Sales, Rentals, Sales, Rentals, The 12 finalists will compete from City Orchestra; April 30, Ab Baars. Repairs, Restorations, Repairs, Restorations, Repairs, Restorations, April 1–3 in Savannah, Georgia. For Tickets and details available soon at Lessons Lessons Lessons earshot.org. Convenient North Seattle Location Convenient North Seattle Location Convenient North Seattle Location details visit savannahmusicfestival.org.

Earshot Jazz 2020 Series News’n’Notes (206)784-6626 (206)784-6626 (206)784-6626 9716 Phinney Ave. N. 9716 Phinney Ave. N. 9716 Phinney Ave. N. Earshot Jazz presents a series of Email news about Seattle-area jazz Seattle, WA. 98103 Seattle, WA. 98103 Seattle, WA. 98103 world-renowned artists beginning in artists and events for Earshot Jazz ~by appointment only~ ~by appointment only~ ~by appointment only~ Notes to [email protected].

ON THE RADIO The Bass Church The Bass Church The Bass Church  The Northwest double bass specialists The Northwest double bass specialists The Northwest double bass specialists 88.5 KNKX hosts Saturday Jazz Matinee, Jazz Sunday Side Up, Ken Wiley’s the Art of Jazz, and Jazz Northwest, in addition to its weekday www.basschurch.com www.basschurch.com www.basschurch.com NPR and late-night and prime-time jazz programs. Full schedule and info at knkx.org. Abe Beeson hosts The New Cool, Saturdays, 3pm, featuring 21st century jazz inspired and informed by the sounds of today, hip-hop, Sales, Rentals, Sales, Rentals, Sales, Rentals, funk, electronic & punk rock, followed by Robin Lloyd’s Jazz Caliente, Repairs, Restorations, Repairs, Restorations, Repairs, Restorations, 5pm, where jazz meets Latin rhythms. Jim Wilke’s Jazz Northwest, Sun- JANUA RLessonsY HIGH LIGHTS Lessons Lessons

days, 2pm, features the artists and events of the regional jazz scene. For Jazz 1.5 Convenient- - Gordon NorthGrdin aSeattle’s Nom Locationad Trio Convenient North Seattle Location Convenient North Seattle Location w/ Matt Mitch ell & Jim Black NW podcasts of archived programs, see jazznw.org. 1.7 - - Noah Halpern //Xavier LaCourturier 90.3 KEXP, late-night Sundays, features Jazz Theater with John Gilbreath, (206)784-66261.10 - - The Tip tons Sax Quartet (206)784-6626 (206)784-6626 1am. Full schedule information is available at kexp.org. 97161.1 Phinney1 - - Ho Ave.t Clu N.b Sandwich// 9716 Phinney Ave. N. 9716 Phinney Ave. N. Seattle, TWA.he S 98103wing Bringers Seattle, WA. 98103 Seattle, WA. 98103 91.3 KBCS, features creative and improvised music on Flotation Device ~by1 .appointment12 - - Dav eonly~ and Nova: Silent Film Scores ~by appointment only~ ~by appointment only~ with John Seman and Jonathan Lawson, Sundays at 10pm. The Monday 1.13 - - Indigo Mist (Cuong Vu) night lineup includes The Caravan with John Gilbreath at 7pm, Straight No 1.14 - - Brendan’s Little Big Band// Matt Williams - Trio Programmatique

Chaser with David Utevsky at 9pm, with John Pai at 11pm, and 1.15 - - Piano Star ts Here: The Music The Shape of Modern Jazz with Gordon Todd at 1am Tuesdays. Shows can of Ellington/Mingus/Byard 1.21 - - Olli Hirvonen//Dan Phelps be streamed anytime at kbcs.fm. T1.2h5 e- - DBjangao’ss Bsir thCdayh Truibrutceh The Bass Church The Bass Church The Northwest double bass specialists The Northwest double bass specialists The Northwest double bass specialists 91.7 KSVR Mount Vernon, Doctor Dee hosts two nights of jazz, Fourth 1.28 - - Jim Cutler Jazz Orchestra 1.29 - - Bruce Phares & Overton Berry Corner Jazz, featuring recordings of live performance in Northwest Wash- 1.3w1 w- - wNo.cbhae sBsecmhbue ryc Ghu.acgoumanc o www.basschurch.com www.basschurch.com ington, Sundays, 6-7pm, and The Doctor’s Den, Mondays, 8-10pm. w/ Elere and Omo Alagba 102.9 KLOI-LP Lopez Island, Mondays & Fridays, 3pm, Joy Spring www.theroyalroomseattle.com

with Gary Alexander, classic jazz and the Great American Songbook. Hollow Earth Radio, hollowearthradio.org. Fridays at 6pm, biweek- Sales, Rentals, Sales, Rentals, Sales, Rentals, ly, Black Roots Radio, hosted by Jordan Leonard, promotes jazz as a dy- Repairs, Restorations, Repairs, Restorations, Repairs, Restorations, namic genre rooted in the Black American experience. Lessons Lessons Lessons Convenient North Seattle Location Convenient North Seattle Location Convenient North Seattle Location Rainier Avenue Radio, rainieravenueradio.world. Mondays and Sundays

at 10pm, #MoJamMondays from the Nectar Lounge. Tuesdays at 6pm, (206)784-6626 (206)784-6626 (206)784-6626 Thursdays and Sundays at 2pm, and Saturdays at 5pm, Jazz from the Cabi- 9716 Phinney Ave. N. 9716 Phinney Ave. N. 9716 Phinney Ave. N. nets with Big Poppy. Seattle, WA. 98103 Seattle, WA. 98103 Seattle, WA. 98103 ~by appointment only~ ~by appointment only~ ~by appointment only~

January 2020 • EARSHOT JAZZ • 19 JAZZ AROUND THE SOUND January 01 THURSDAY, JANUARY 2 ES Cara Sandahl, 6pm MONDAY, JANUARY 6 JA Nearly Dan (early show), 7:30pm BC Adam Kessler & Phil Sparks, 9pm JA Nearly Dan (late show), 9:30pm CC Cider Sessions, 9:30pm EB Eric Verlinde, 6pm PR Clipper Anderson Quartet, 8pm EB Tom Kellock, 6pm ES Paul Richardson, 6pm SB Latin & Cuban Night, 7pm ES Eric Verlinde, 6pm JA Nearly Dan, 7:30pm TD Mark Hummel’s Blues Blowout, NL Mo’ Jam Mondays, 8:30pm PR The Triangular Jazztet, 6pm 8pm RR Casey MacGill Trio, 7pm RR Cold Spell / LJ Collective / Aidan Siemann VI The Tarantellas, 6pm RR Salute Sessions, 9:30pm Chordless Quartet, 7pm VI Wayne Horvitz Trio, 9:30pm RY The Tiptons Saxophone Quartet, 8pm SB Ari Joshua Band, 8pm SB Proud & Nasty Jam Session, 10pm SUNDAY, JANUARY 5 TUESDAY, JANUARY 7 VI Casey MacGill, 5:30pm BP Billy Stapleton-Annie Eastwood Duo, 8pm VI Marina Christopher Trio, 9pm AB Max Holmberg & 200 Trio, 9pm BW Bill Anschell Piano Trio, 4pm EB Eric Verlinde, 6pm FRIDAY, JANUARY 3 CR Racer Sessions, 8pm ES Paul Richardson, 6pm CZ Choro Jam, 2pm JA Pearl Django, 7:30pm BP Mark Dufresne Band, 8pm DT Jazz Jam, 8pm MQ Brad Gibson Duo, 5pm CA Francesco Crosara & Glenn Young Trio, 6pm EB Tom Kellock, 6pm MT Open Mic, 9pm CZ Jazz First Fridays, 7:30pm ES Eric Verlinde w/ Josephine Howell, 6pm OT Hot Jazz Hootenanny, 7:30pm EB Tom Kellock, 6pm FB Seattle Jazz Vespers: Jay Thomas’ Organic OW Jazz Jam, 9:30pm ES Cara Sandahl, 6pm Quartet, 6pm RR Noah Halpern & Xavier Lecouturier, 7pm JA Nearly Dan (early show), 7:30pm JA Nearly Dan, 7:30pm SB Joe Doria Presents, 10pm JA Nearly Dan (late show), 9:30pm PR David Francis, 6pm TT Jonas Meyers w/ Kate Dinsmore & Cosmic LA Happy Hour w/ Phil Sparks, 5pm Shuffle, 8pm MQ The Hounds of Townsend, 5pm RR GORDON GRDINA’S NOMAD TRIO RR Oleaje Flamenco, 8:30pm W/MATT MITCHELL & JIM BLACK, 7PM WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 8 SB Velocity, 8pm JUNO Award winning guitarist and oud player EB Eric Verlinde, 6pm TD Mark Hummel’s Blues Harmonica Blowout, Gordon Grdina celebrates Nomad, the electrifying ES Paul Richardson, 6pm 8pm debut release by his Nomad Trio with pianist Matt JA Pearl Django, 7:30pm VI D’Vonne Lewis, 9pm Mitchell and drummer Jim Black. The Seattle SB Shawn Mickelson Group, 8pm show is part of an album release tour. SC Bill Anschell Trio, 7pm SATURDAY, JANUARY 4 TD Los Lobos, 7:30pm BP Powerhouse feat. Billy Stapleton & Annie VI Lennon Aldort, 6pm VI Tim Kennedy Trio, 9pm Eastwood, 8pm VI Ron Weinstein Trio, 9:30pm CH Young Scientist & Mark Barreca, 8pm THURSDAY, JANUARY 9 EB Frank S. Holman III, 6pm BC Adam Kessler & Phil Sparks, 9pm

Calendar Key

AB The Angry Beaver EG Egan’s Ballard Jam House PR Pacific Room Alki BC Barça ES El Gaucho Seattle RR The Royal Room BP Bake’s Place Bellevue FB Seattle First Baptist Church RY Rhythm & Rye BW Bainbridge Waterfront Community Center FX The Factory Luxe SB Sea Monster Lounge CA Casa Mexico JA Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley SC WJMAC at Sylvia Center for the Arts CC Capitol Cider LA Latona Pub SE Seattle Art Museum CH Chapel Performance Space MQ Triple Door MQ Stage & Lounge ST Stage 7 Pianos CM Crossroads Bellevue MT Mac’s Triangle Pub TD Triple Door CN Craft 19 Espresso + Creperie MU Murphy’s Pub TG Tasting Room CR Cafe Racer MV Marine View Church TP Third Place Commons CT Columbia City Theater NC North City Bistro & Wine Shop TT Tractor Tavern CZ Couth Buzzard Books NL Nectar Lounge VI Vito’s DT Darrell’s Tavern OT Oliver’s Twist WS Watershed Pub & Kitchen EB El Gaucho Bellevue OW Owl ‘n Thistle EC Edmonds Center for the Arts PG Paragon

20 • EARSHOT JAZZ • January 2020 BP DHQ : The Darelle Holden Quartet, 8pm SB Latin & Cuban Night, 7pm CH A.F. Jones & Rachel LeBlanc & Noel VI Jerry Zimmerman, 6pm Kennon, 8pm VI Kareem Kandi, 9:30pm CURTAIN CALL CM Bellevue School District Jam Session, WS The Suffering F-heads, 9pm Weekly recurring sessions & gigs 6:30pm EB Eric Verlinde, 6pm SUNDAY, JANUARY 12 ES Paul Richardson, 6pm AB Max Holmberg & 200 Trio, 9pm FX Secret Jazz Club (curated by Max CR Racer Sessions, 8pm MONDAY Holmberg), 6:30pm CZ Jazz Jam w/ Kenny Mandell, 2pm CC Cider Sessions, 9:30 JA Peter White, 7:30pm DT Jazz Jam, 8pm RR JazzED All-Star Combo Showcase, 7pm EB Tom Kellock, 6pm EB Tom Kellock, 6 SB Proud & Nasty Jam Session, 10pm ES Eric Verlinde w/ Josephine Howell, 6pm ES Eric Verlinde, 6 SE Art of Jazz: DX-tet, 5:30pm JA Peter White, 7:30pm NL Mo’ Jam Mondays, 9 TD Los Lobos, 7:30pm MV Thomas Marriott Quartet, 5pm VI Casey MacGill, 5:30pm VI Jeremy Bacon, 6pm RR Salute Sessions, 10 VI Jennifer Kienzle, 9pm VI Ron Weinstein Trio, 9:30pm TUESDAY FRIDAY, JANUARY 10 MONDAY, JANUARY 13 EB Eric Verlinde, 6 CA Francesco Crosara & Glenn Young Trio, 6pm CC Cider Sessions, 9:30pm ES Paul Richardson, 6 CH Triptet & Anne La Berge, 8pm EB Tom Kellock, 6pm MT Open Mic, 9 CM Mach One Jazz Orchestra, 7pm ES Eric Verlinde, 6pm OT Hot Jazz Hootenanny, 7:30 EB Tom Kellock, 6pm NL Mo’ Jam Mondays, 8:30pm ES Cara Sandahl, 6pm RR Indigo Mist, 7:30pm OW Jazz Jam, 9:30 JA Peter White (early show), 7:30pm RR Salute Sessions, 9:30pm SB Joe Doria Presents, 10 JA Peter White (late show), 9:30pm LA Happy Hour w/ Phil Sparks, 5pm TUESDAY, JANUARY 14 WEDNESDAY MQ Chris Stevens Band, 9pm BP Billy Stapleton-Annie Eastwood Duo, 8pm MU Burn Band, 8:30pm EB Eric Verlinde, 6 EB Eric Verlinde, 6pm NC Michael Shrieve’s Spelllbinder, 8pm ES Paul Richardson, 6 ES Paul Richardson, 6pm NL High Step Society / General Mojo’s / Filthy JA Chris Botti (early show), 7:30pm Femcorps, 8pm THURSDAY JA Chris Botti (late show), 9:30pm BC Adam Kessler & Phil Sparks, 9 RR THE TIPTONS SAX QUARTET, 8PM MQ Adam Williams & David Salonen, 5pm The Tiptons Sax Quartet—named in honor of the MT Open Mic, 9pm EB Eric Verlinde, 6 late saxophonist Billy Tipton—return to Seattle NC Songwriter Showcase, 7pm ES Paul Richardson, 6 OT Hot Jazz Hootenanny, 7:30pm to record another album. They peform twice this SB Proud and Nasty, 10 month, this evening and January 6 at Rhythm OW Jazz Jam, 9:30pm & Rye. The explosive group cover genres from RR Brendan’s Little Big Band / Matt Williams VI Casey MacGill, 5:30 micro-big band, gospel, bluegrass, and Balkan to Trio Programmatique, 7pm FRIDAY whimsical jazz and nocturnal funk. . SB Joe Doria Presents, 10pm EB Tom Kellock, 6 The Tiptons are comprised of Amy Denio, alto WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15 ES Cara Sandahl, 6 saxophone, clarinet, and voice; Jessica Lurie, EB Eric Verlinde, 6pm soprano, alto, & tenor saxophone, voice; Sue LA Happy hour w/ Phil Sparks, 5 ES Paul Richardson, 6pm Orfield, tenor saxophone, voice; and Tina JA Chris Botti (early show), 7:30pm SATURDAY Richerson, baritone saxophone, voice. JA Chris Botti (late show), 9:30pm EB Frank S Holman III, 6 No longer living in the same cities, it’s a special NC Casey MacGill, 7pm opportunity when this group gets back together to RR Piano Starts Here: The Music of Ellington/ ES Cara Sandahl, 6 record and perform. Not to be missed! Mingus/Byard , 7:30pm SB Latin & Cuban Night, 7 SC Kate Olson Ensemble, 7pm SB Reposado, 8pm VI Brad Gibson Presents, 9pm SUNDAY TD Los Lobos, 8pm VI Kate Olson Ensemble, 9pm THURSDAY, JANUARY 16 AB Max Holmberg & 200 Jam, 9 CR Racer Sessions, 8 SATURDAY, JANUARY 11 BC Adam Kessler & Phil Sparks, 9pm EB Eric Verlinde, 6pm CZ Choro Jam, 2 (1st & 3rd) CN Brent Jensen/Dave Peterson Duo, 3pm EC Mavis Staples, 7:30pm CZ Jazz Jam w/ Kenny Mandell, 2 EB Frank S. Holman III, 6pm ES Paul Richardson, 6pm (2nd & 4th) EC Dan & Claudia Zanes, 11am JA Chris Botti (early show), 7:30pm ES Cara Sandahl, 6pm JA Chris Botti (late show), 9:30pm DT Jazz Jam, 8 JA Peter White (early show), 7:30pm MQ Birch Pereira Group, 5pm EB Tom Kellock, 6 JA Peter White (late show), 9:30pm NC Kings of Mongrel Folk, 7pm ES Eric Verlinde w/ Josephine MQ Afrocop, 8pm SB Comfort Food, 8pm Howell, 6 NC Jovino Santos Neto Quinteto, 8pm SB Proud & Nasty Jam Session, 10pm PR Jose “Juicy” Gonzales Trio, 8pm VI Casey MacGill, 5:30pm VI Ron Weinstein Trio, 9:30 RR Hot Club Sandwich / Swing Bringers, 8pm

January 2020 • EARSHOT JAZZ • 21 VI Greta Matassa, 9pm PG Dinner Jazz With Jean Lenke & Milo MONDAY, JANUARY 20 Petersen, 8pm FRIDAY, JANUARY 17 PR Shawn Mickelson Quartet, 8pm CC Cider Sessions, 9:30pm EB Tom Kellock, 6pm CA Francesco Crosara & Glenn Young Trio, 6pm SB Latin & Cuban Night, 7pm CH Joey Largent: Selected Drift in Dream Stasis, ST Greta Matassa, 7:30pm EC BE THE LIGHT: A TRIBUTE TO VI The Tarantellas, 6pm 7pm REV. DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR., CM Jazz Underground, 7pm 7:30PM EB Tom Kellock, 6pm SUNDAY, JANUARY 19 ES Cara Sandahl, 6pm AB Max Holmberg & 200 Trio, 9pm “Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light LA Happy Hour w/ Phil Sparks, 5pm CR Racer Sessions, 8pm can do that.” Inspiring a beloved community NC Rod Cook & Toast, 8pm CZ Choro Jam, 2pm in song, spoken word, and dance. This second PR Scott Lindenmuth, 8pm CZ Music Improv Session w/ Kenny Mandell, annual performance returns to the Edmonds VI Johnny Astro, 9pm 7pm Center for the Arts. The first event in 2018 was DT Jazz Jam, 8pm founded by Donnie Griffin, principal founder of SATURDAY, JANUARY 18 EB Tom Kellock, 6pm the Lift Every Voice Legacy (LEVL). EB Frank S. Holman III, 6pm ES Eric Verlinde w/ Josephine Howell, 6pm This evening’s featured performer is composer, EC SheshBesh, 7:30pm RR JazzED Jam, 4pm conductor, gospel-jazz vocalist, and pianist ES Cara Sandahl, 6pm RR In Motion Quartet, 7pm Dr. Stephen Newby. Joining are special guests NC Stephanie Porter Quartet, 8pm VI Alex Guilbert, 6pm Josephine Howell, Phillip Ferrell, Nichol Eskridge, NL Las Cafeterias w/ the Cumbieros, 8pm VI Ron Weinstein Trio, 9:30pm Dr. Joy Jones, Barclay Shelton Dance Centre and Price Arts Dance Co.

General admission tickets are $12, $5 for students. Tickets increase to $15 the day of.

ES Eric Verlinde, 6pm NL Mo’ Jam Mondays, 8:30pm RR Salute Sessions, 9:30pm TUESDAY, JANUARY 21 BP Billy Stapleton-Annie Eastwood Duo, 8pm EB Eric Verlinde, 6pm ES Paul Richardson, 6pm JA Harriet Tubman, 7:30pm MT Open Mic, 9pm NC Brian Monroney Quartet, 7pm OT Hot Jazz Hootenanny, 7:30pm OW Jazz Jam, 9:30pm RR Seattle Academy Jam, 5pm RR Olli Hirvonen New Helsinki / Dan Phelps, 8pm SB Joe Doria Presents, 10pm WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22 EB Eric Verlinde, 6pm ES Paul Richardson, 6pm JA Harriet Tubman, 7:30pm NC Mike Clinco Mancini Tribute, 7pm RR Nancy Erickson & Nicole Waters, 7:30pm SC Sam Taylor Quartet w/ Larry McKenna, 7pm VI Ben Von Wildenhaus, 9pm THURSDAY, JANUARY 23 BC Adam Kessler & Phil Sparks, 9pm BP DHQ : The Darelle Holden Quartet, 8pm CH Lucas Winter Quintet, 8pm CM Bellevue School District Jam Session, 6:30pm CT Nosretep / Crystal Beth & the Boom Boom Band / Redshift, 8pm EB Eric Verlinde, 6pm ES Paul Richardson, 6pm JA Steve Gadd Band, 7:30pm NC Eléré Latin Jazz, 7pm

22 • EARSHOT JAZZ • January 2020 SB How Now Brown Cow, 8pm decade, every Sunday a featuerd artist presents ES Paul Richardson, 6pm SB Proud & Nasty Jam Session, 10pm original music and a brief explanation of their JA Peter Bernstein, Larry Goldings & Bill VI Casey MacGill, 5:30pm creative process, followed by a jam based on the Stewart, 7:30pm VI Katrina Kope, 9pm concepts and approaches outlined by the leading NC “Bartender” from Italy, 7pm artist. This week’s session is the culminating RR Bruce Phares & Overton Berry, 7:30pm FRIDAY, JANUARY 24 night of Cry & Roar and features No Baby, SC Matt Jorgensen Quintet, 7pm BP Big Road Blues, 9pm comprised of dancer/choreographer Allison Burke, TD Juan De Marcos & the Afro-Cuban All Stars, CA Francesco Crosara & Glenn Young Trio, 6pm multi-instrumentalist Joe Oakes, and former 7:30pm CH Lori Goldston, 8pm Thunderpussy drummer Ruby Lucinda. VI Marco de Carvalho Trio, 9pm CR Cry & Roar X, 8pm CZ Jazz Jam w/ Kenny Mandell, 2pm THURSDAY, JANUARY 30 EB Tom Kellock, 6pm DT Jazz Jam, 8pm EG Hopscotch, 7pm EB Tom Kellock, 6pm BC Adam Kessler & Phil Sparks, 9pm ES Cara Sandahl, 6pm ES Eric Verlinde w/ Josephine Howell, 6pm CH Mark Hilliard Wilson: The Presence of JA Steve Gadd Band (early show), 7:30pm JA Steve Gadd Band, 7:30pm Absence, 8pm JA Steve Gadd Band (late show), 9:30pm VI Tim Kennedy, 6pm CM Music Works Afro-Cuban Ensemble, 7pm LA Happy Hour w/ Phil Sparks, 5pm VI Ron Weinstein Trio, 9:30pm EB Eric Verlinde, 6pm NC Lee Oskar, 8pm ES Paul Richardson, 6pm PR Nicole Walters, 8pm MONDAY, JANUARY 27 JA WAR, 8pm VI The New Triumph, 9pm NC Birch Pereira & the Gin Joints, 7pm CC Cider Sessions, 9:30pm NL OG McTuff / Trio Subtonic, 8pm EB Tom Kellock, 6pm SATURDAY, JANUARY 25 RR The Berries / Merz Band / Bad Luck / Great ES Eric Verlinde, 6pm Spiders, 8:30pm CM Illusionz Jazz w/ Danny Quintero, 7pm JA SRJO Sextet feat. Ignacio Berroa, 7:30pm SB Thriest, 8pm CR Cry & Roar X, 8pm NL Mo’ Jam Mondays, 8:30pm SB Proud & Nasty Jam Session, 10pm EB Frank S. Holman III, 6pm RR Salute Sessions, 9:30pm ES Cara Sandahl, 6pm VI Casey MacGill, 5:30pm JA Steve Gadd Band (early show), 7:30pm TUESDAY, JANUARY 28 VI Marina Albero Trio, 9pm JA Steve Gadd Band (late show), 9:30pm BP Billy Stapleton-Annie Eastwood Duo, 8pm NC Alma y Azucar, 8pm FRIDAY, JANUARY 31 EB Eric Verlinde, 6pm PR Gail Pettis, 8pm CA Francesco Crosara & Glenn Young Trio, 6pm ES Paul Richardson, 6pm RR Django’s Birthday, 6pm CM Take 7 Little Big Band, 7pm JA Peter Bernstein, Larry Goldings & Bill SB Latin & Cuban Night, 7pm EB Tom Kellock, 6pm Stewart, 7:30pm TG Cozmotion Quartet, 7pm ES Cara Sandahl, 6pm MT Open Mic, 9pm VI Jerry Zimmerman, 6pm JA WAR, 7:30pm NC Marina Albero & Luis Gallo, 7pm VI Afrocop, 9:30pm LA Happy Hour w/ Phil Sparks, 5pm OT Hot Jazz Hootenanny, 7:30pm NC Adriana Giordano & EntreMundos Quarteto, OW Jazz Jam, 9:30pm SUNDAY, JANUARY 26 8pm SB Joe Doria Presents, 10pm RR Noche Bembe y Guaguanco w/ Elere & Omo AB Max Holmberg & 200 Trio, 9pm TD Juan De Marcos & the Afro-Cuban All Stars, Alagba, 8pm 7:30pm CR RACER SESSIONS, 8PM RY Galen Clark, 9pm The beloved weekly jam session for creative and WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29 TP Dancing with Hopscotch, 7:30pm improvised music celebrates 10 years during the VI Nate Omdal Trio, 9pm weekend long Cry & Roar Festival. For the last EB Eric Verlinde, 6pm

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IN THIS ISSUE... A $35 basic membership in Earshot brings Golden Ear Award Nominations______2 the newsletter to your door and entitles you to EARSHOT JAZZ discounts at all Earshot events. Your member- Letter from the Director: 2020 Vision______2 MEMBERSHIP ship also helps support all our educational programs and concert presentations. Notes______3 Type of membership Individual ($35) Additional tax-deductible donation ______Profile: Beth Fleenor: Artistry in Household ($60) Patron ($100) Sustaining ($200) Constant Motion______4 Other Sr. Citizen – 30% discount at all levels Preview: Cry & Roar X: 10 Years Canadian subscribers please add $5 additional postage (US funds) of Racer Sessions______6 Regular subscribers – to receive newsletter 1st class, please add $10 Venue Profile: Pacific Room Alki for extra postage Offers New Space for Jazz Artists and Contact me about volunteering ______Audiences______8 NAME

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On the Radio______19 ______PHONE # EMAIL Jazz Around the Sound______20 ______Earshot Jazz is a nonprofit tax-exempt organization. Ask your employer if your company has a matching gift program. It can easily double the value of your membership or donation. Mail to Earshot Jazz, 3417 Fremont Ave N, #221, Seattle, WA 98103