Concerts.Cafe – First Take PR

March 21, 2024

Schmooze Jazz Issue 2 Explores the World of Jazz Culture with Dynamic Content and Contemporary Jazz Luminaries

In this issue, Pianist Bobby Lyle is joined by Spyro Gyra, Pete Escovedo, Paula Atherton, concert recaps, CD reviews, a retrospective on Astrud Gilberto, and more!

PR UNDERGROUND, March 19, 2024

The grand return of Schmooze Jazz magazine ignites the hearts of music aficionados with its second installment. This edition is not just a magazine; it’s a veritable deep dive into the heart and soul of contemporary jazz, promising an extensive and immersive journey that will leave readers fascinated. Leading the charge in this edition is the enigmatic pianist extraordinaire, Bobby Lyle, whose musical genius has transcended time and continues to inspire legions of fans worldwide. Through an exclusive interview, Lyle peels back the layers of his creative process, offering intimate insights into his approach to composition, arranging, and the myriad influences that have sculpted his illustrious career. Complementing Lyle’s revelations are the mesmerizing images captured by photographer Ash Gupta, immortalizing Lyle’s essence in every frame and bringing an added dimension to the magazine’s exploration of jazz’s ever-evolving narrative.

Schmooze Jazz Issue 2 Features Paula Atherton — Paula Atherton is interviewed by Sheryl Aronson in Schmooze Jazz Issue 2

Schmooze Jazz magazine includes a diverse array of interviews featuring Billboard-charting artists such as Eric Darius, Kim Scott, Paula Atherton, and Terry Wollman. Each interview is a treasure trove of wisdom and inspiration, providing readers with a rare glimpse into the lives and creative processes of these amazing musicians.

Jay Beckinstein (Spyro Gyra) is interviewed by Kaylene Peoples for Schmooze Jazz Issue 2

Delving deeper into the registers of jazz history, this edition features a captivating retrospective on the incomparable Astrud Gilberto, crafted by Schmooze Jazz‘s Executive Editor and Jazz/Bossa-nova artist Kaylene Peoples. Percussionist Pete Escovedo, father of Sheila E, regales readers with captivating anecdotes from his storied career. Two contributions from Concerts.Cafe include pianist Myron McKinley who sheds light on his role as Earth, Wind & Fire’s musical director and his latest CD, Sound Alchemist; and singer/musician Rebecca Jade opens up about her career and her new CD Shade of Jade.

Schmooze Jazz Issue 2 Article on Pete Escovedo — Schmooze Jazz Issue 2 features a conversation with percussionist Pete Escovedo

“Venturing beyond individual artists, Schmooze Jazz magazine serves as a guidepost for jazz enthusiasts, providing a comprehensive overview of Southern California’s vibrant music scene. From pulsating live concerts to soul-stirring festivals, event editor Sheryl Aronson meticulously curates the must-see events for jazz aficionados in the region, including the renowned Oxnard Jazz Festival, spearheaded by Chuck Dennis, who shares his inspiration for the rapidly emerging annual event in an exclusive interview. Additionally, contributing writer Michael Adam Cohen lets us live vicariously through his experiences on the Dave Koz & Friends at Sea excursion.

Flutist Kim Scott is interviewed in Schmooze Jazz Issue 2 by Kaylene Peoples

Keeping in step with issue 1, filled with CD and single reviews, issue 2 is a treasure trove of meticulously crafted CD reviews of notable releases: Keiko Matsui (EUPHORIA), Kenny G (INNOCENCE), Jeff Lorber Fusion (THE DROP), Lawson Rollins (HEARTWOOD), Yussef Dayes (BLACK CLASSICAL MUSIC), and Justin-Lee Schultz (JUST IN THE MOMENT).”

What sets this magazine apart?

“Schmooze Jazz” conveys a sense of community and conversation in the realm of jazz, facilitating the dissemination of newsworthy information, highlighting key events, developments, and achievements within the jazz industry in an engaging and informative manner. Founded by Kaylene Peoples in the role of Executive Editor and photographed by Ash Gupta—his second cover and editorial shoot, his first being with Dave Koz in the first issue—Gupta captures Bobby Lyle in his element. What makes Schmooze Jazz so significant is that it fills a void in jazz genres. As Bobby Lyle talks about critics placing jazz in a box in issue 2, Schmooze Jazz magazine incorporates other music styles that live on the fringe. These styles include Latin, R&B, and jazz crossover styles, among others.

Astrud Gilberto is profiled by Kaylene Peoples in Schmooze Jazz Issue 2

Schmooze Jazz also puts a spotlight on women musicians who have been an underserved demographic in music magazines. Learning about their journeys and successes paves the way for the next generation of women musicians. It’s important to remember that music knows no gender, and Schmooze Jazz is a celebration of the boundless creativity and spirit of contemporary jazz. With its engaging interviews, thought-provoking retrospectives, and expertly curated content, Schmooze Jazz magazine invites readers to embark on a transcendent journey through the rich world of modern jazz culture. Join the conversation, expand your musical horizons, and let the rhythm of jazz guide you.

Visit KL Publishing Group to purchase Schmooze Jazz Issue 2

About Schmooze Jazz

The second installment of Schmooze Jazz magazine represents a triumphant return, captivating readers with its rich array of interviews, retrospectives, and reviews. From the timeless brilliance of Bobby Lyle to the pulsating energy of Southern California’s jazz scene, each page invites enthusiasts on a captivating journey through the world of contemporary jazz. With its immersive content and meticulous curation, Schmooze Jazz magazine continues to be a guiding light for aficionados, celebrating the past, present, and future of this ever-evolving musical genre.

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Original Press Release.

January 27, 2024February 13, 2024

Bunny Brunel, Stanley Clarke, Kyle Eastwood, & Armand Sabal-Lecco Take Center Stage for an Unforgettable Night of Bass!

Bunny Brunel & Friends "Bass Ball 2" CD Release Concert

On January 19, 2024, legendary bassist Bunny Brunel headlined at the Catalina Jazz Club for his “Bass Ball 2” CD release concert. The packed event featured iconic bassists Stanley Clarke, Kyle Eastwood, and Armand Sabal-Lecco, with performances by Larry Dunn and Kaylene Peoples. The night showcased bass virtuosity, surprise collaborations, and a captivating mix of jazz, blues, and Bossa-nova. Hosted by Kevin Foster and opened by Pat Prescott, the event received high praise and an unforgettable evening for all.

HOLLYWOOD, Calif. – Jan. 27, 2024 – First Take PR

(All Photos by Sheryl Aronson)

Bunny Brunel & Friends "Bass Ball 2" CD Release Concert at Catal — Host Kevin Foster

Bunny Brunel & Friends “Bass Ball 2” made its way to the Catalina Jazz Club on Sunset Blvd. for a once-in-a-lifetime night of music. Never have these four players (Bunny Brunel, Stanley Clarke, Armand Sabal-Lecco, & Kyle Eastwood) graced the same stage during a performance . . . and the audience was thrilled to be there to witness it. This night was filled with great collaborations with a variety of styles and techniques. Bunny Brunel and Stanley Clarke who are both known for their tenure with Chick Corea were pivotal in bringing the bass upfront. Pioneers of the jazz-fusion bass movement, Brunel & Clarke helped pave the way for future bass players to carve their own niche in the industry. The performances that evening was epic. Several attendees remarked how distinctive each bass player’s sound was. One guest remarked, “You could close your eyes and know who was playing.”

Larry Dunn, the original keyboardist for Earth, Wind & Fire, added to the musical feast with his playing, bringing his sound filled with nostalgia, and adding something extra to the show. Dunn’s performance was nothing short of brilliant.

And Kaylene Peoples, a vocalist and flutist, charmed the audience with her command of the stage, bringing another flavor entirely. As Peoples jokingly expressed before she performed, “I’m the treble amongst all this bass!”

The engaged audience was mesmerized by each performer. There was something very unique about this unexpected lineup. The personnel, featuring Mahesh Balasooriya on keys, Monette Marino on percussion, and DeCarlos “Hulk” Davis on drums, showcased a fusion of talent.

To kick off the show, TV Writer/Comedian (Monogamy) Kevin Foster warmed up the audience as anticipation brewed. He brought to the stage Pat Prescott, a popular radio host, expressed how important jazz and supporting live music is today.

Then bassists Bunny Brunel, Stanley Clarke, and Kyle Eastwood set the tone with the infectious grooves of “G-Blues,” setting the crowd’s anticipation for a night of musical grandeur. The spotlight remained firmly on the bass instrument, providing an innovative palette for musical expression. Larry Dunn joined Bunny Brunel and Stanley Clarke for a captivating performance of “Changing,” which is slated as the first single from “Bass Ball 2” and showcased Dunn’s keyboard virtuosity. The dynamic duo of Stanley Clarke and Armand Sabal-Lecco then captivated the audience with a masterful interpretation of “La Caucion.”

Kaylene Peoples brought a touch of Romantic Bossa-Nova to the mix with her rendition of “Girl from Ipanema,” accompanied by Bunny Brunel on bass.

Kaylene Peoples performs “Spain” with Kyle Eastwood and Bunny Brunel

The climax of the night was the “Bass Jam,” where the four legendary bass players exhibited their technical prowess, melodic sensibility, and dynamic camaraderie on the electric bass.

Honoring the iconic Chick Corea, Kaylene Peoples returned to perform a flute solo on Corea’s “Spain.” The grand finale featured Larry Dunn rejoining Stanley Clarke, Bunny Brunel, Kyle Eastwood, and Kaylene Peoples for a jazzy rendition of “That’s the Way of the World.”

-by-Sheryl-Aronson — (L-R) Larry Dunn, Kaylene Peoples, Armand Sabal-Lecco, Monette Marino, DeCarlos Hulk Davis

Attendees praised “Bass Ball 2” and its legendary cast, with one remarking, “Tonight was the most beautiful jazz concert I have ever attended. Congratulations. True beauty is holy,” said Terran Steinhart, an Attorney at Law. Journalist A. Scott Galloway added, “Truly an unforgettable evening of heartfelt joy, camaraderie, and low-end love.” The enthusiastic crowd on January 19th included notables like fashion designer Kevan Hall, “Monogamy” Actress Chrystee Pharris, bass player Talmadge Hawkins, and Howard Johnson of “So Fine” fame. The event drew in a diverse audience, including Grammy-winning Phillip Aphillyated Guillory and the Executive Board of the Tuskegee Airman Scholarship Foundation.

Bass Ball 2, the brainchild of Bunny Brunel, follows the groundbreaking release of BASS BALL in 2017, the first-ever CD exclusively showcasing bass players. Co-produced by Stanley Clarke, the collaboration marked a historic moment for bass enthusiasts, thrusting the instrument into the forefront of musical expression. BASS BALL 2, released in 2023, features a stellar lineup, including Kyle Eastwood, Federico Malaman, Stanley Clarke, Armand Sabal-Lecco, Sekou Bunch, Josquin des Pres, Dominique di Piazza, and special guests Patrice Rushen, Larry Dunn, Kaylene Peoples, Virgil Donati, John Wackerman, Steve Ferrone, and countless other notable musicians. For more information about “Bass Ball 2” and the complete lineup, visit bunnybrunel.com/music.

The concert was proudly supported by the promotional teams at First Take PR, Concerts.cafe, and Music Magique Promotions, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Wounded Warriors Project.

(All Photos by Sheryl Aronson)

September 16, 2021September 28, 2023

Concerts.Cafe Presents Myron McKinley’s “The Speakeasy” with Rebecca Jade, Adam Aejaye Jackson, and Sy Smith

Florentino Buenaventura (CEO of EnterTalk and founder of Concerts.Cafe) launched the first of many in-person musical performances with artist-branded coffee and an all-star musical lineup!

A spectacular evening, starring The Myron McKinley Trio, featured Sy Smith (Chris Botti), Rebecca Jade (Sheila E.), Adam Aejaye Jackson (Toni Braxton), and dancer/choreographer Sonya Enchill Om (Alvin Ailey). These dynamic performers entertained the San Diego crowd on Sunday, September 12, 2021, at 7:00 pm at the Pavilion Theater. The in-person event was just one of many concerts headed by EnterTalk’s CEO Florentino Buenaventura who has erected a unique concert-going experience. Buenaventura is a pioneer who has continued to put on live (and streaming) concerts before and during the pandemic. He launched Concerts.Cafe last spring (with Paul Berezetsky, COO) as a promotional outlet and resource for musical artists and bands looking to build their online presence while supplementing their income via digital ticket sales and signature consumable merchandise. Partnering with The Legacy Resort Hotel and Spa, Concerts.Cafe launched its first monthly in-person concert at their 500-seat theater. The Roaring Twenties-themed show was a nod to the early 20^th century variety/cabaret shows with art directed sets and the essence of theater. The talented musicians were bandleader/pianist Myron McKinley (Earth, Wind & Fire), upright bassist Ian Martin (David Foster), drummer/percussionist Stacey Lamont Sydnor (The Jacksons) with guitarist Tony Pulizzi (Stevie Wonder), and saxophonist and Grammy winner Gary Bias (Anita Baker). The spectacular band filled the evening with an amalgamation of New Orleans jazz, blues, and soul, accompanying the incredibly gifted vocalists.

Sonya Enchill Om, Gary Bias (R), and Tony Pulizzi in Back (L) (by Sheryl Aronson, SasaPhotos.com)

In attendance were bass fusion giant and 2-time Grammy-nominated Bunny Brunel (CAB), multi-award-winning recording artist/producer Kaylene Peoples (Hubert Laws), drummer/percussionist Walfredo Reyes Jr. (Chicago), and San Diego’s own producer/bassist Josquin des Pres (Jason Mraz, The Gipsy Kings)

The Featured Performers:

Myron McKinley is a Juilliard-trained pianist, producer, songwriter, film composer, and is the current musical director and keyboardist for the legendary ensemble Earth Wind & Fire. He has toured extensively with Stanley Clarke, Chaka Khan, En Vogue, Whitney Houston, and many others. Sy Smith has a vocal range spanning five octaves, doing background gigs with Whitney Houston in the late 90s, and has worked with trumpeter Chris Botti and Foreign Exchange. Rebecca Jade has a chameleon-like quality to her voice, where she delivers each song uniquely. Touring with Sheila E., she appeared in the Emmy-nominated Let’s Go Crazy: The GRAMMY Salute to Prince, and sang background vocals for Sir Elton John at the 2020 Academy Awards. And Adam Aejaye Jackson, a native of Detroit, Michigan, began singing in church at the early age of three and has worked with Toni Braxton, Melissa Manchester, David Foster, and others.

Featured Vocalists Adam Aejaye Jackson & Rebecca Jade (by Sheryl Aronson, SasaPhotos.com)

“The Speakeasy” highlighted contemporary songs, arranged in styles from the Roaring Twenties! A bold statement of the era entertained the audience through music, set design, and costumes. Southern blues kicked off the festivities and set the tone for the awaiting audience. Tony Pulizzi was dynamic as he shredded on his guitar and ushered in vocalist Adam Aejaye Jackson. The audience was transfixed during Jackson’s moving rendition of ‘Walk on By.’ Other highlights of the evening were Rebecca Jade’s interpretation of Nat King Cole’s ‘Nature Boy,’ and closing act Sy Smith, who was stunning in her form-fitting 1920s quintessential black gown, gave a powerful performance of Sting’s ‘If You Love Somebody Set Them Free’; Smith’s entrance and exit was pure theater! With the audience eager for more, the musicians stepped up with a rousing encore with the Beatles classic, ‘Eleanor Rigby.’” –Schmooze Jazz Magazine

Sy Smith & Ian Martin (by Sheryl Aronson, SasaPhotos.com)

Florentino Buenaventura Talks About the Concept of Concerts.Cafe:

“We do concerts with coffee so people can engage the brand. If you weren’t present at the show, you will be able to see it recorded later online, but that magic from those in attendance is once-in-a-lifetime. The people there, the audience . . . it’s all a part of that magical experience. The energy was electric. With Myron—when he’s not on tour with Earth, Wind & Fire—we’re looking to do a more regular series. For the next one, we’re thinking about doing the 70s era with disco, soul, and featured singers.

Florentino continues . . .

“We don’t make money on music anymore, and sustaining a career for musicians, the music is in the marketing. For genre-specific musical styles, we can take it [worldwide] and give people access to a far-reaching live concert experience. During the pandemic, we were doing a lot of that. Then when we launched in April, we had a surprisingly big audience. In May, the live venues opened back up, causing a severe dip in revenue. Live streaming is the long game and an in-person concert . . . you’ll either sell-out or not. When you bring the two together, you have a residual income to go along with a one-off show. With Concert.Cafe, we’ve got the platform, the ticketing, and the ability to do the bundling packages with coffee and the concert or a dinner show. The food is simply amazing at The Legacy Hotel.”

EntertTalk’s CEO Florentino Buenaventura (Concerts.Cafe) poses with Renowned Bassist Bunny Brunel (by Sheryl Aronson, SasaPhotos.com)

About Concerts.Cafe

As the first interactive and immersive live streaming concert venue for lovers of live music and gourmet coffee, Concerts.Cafe is a unique, online concert experience for music fans and coffee connoisseurs. It is a web platform dedicated to pairing ticketed live music events and signature artist shops with consumable merchandise, offering shows in all genres with some of the finest organic flavors available in coffees and teas. Serving as a new revenue resource for music artists, Concerts.Cafe offers gourmet, artist-branded consumables and on-demand or live streaming music content to fans. Launched in April 2021, with a fantastic lineup of multiple music events and artist-inspired coffee flavors from which to choose Concerts.Cafe features special live streams and now in-person performances and artist coffee selections from a variety of musical artists and bands. (All in-person concerts adhere to Covid restrictions.) Visit https://concerts.cafe/

About The Legacy Resort Hotel & Spa

In the midst of California’s breathtaking natural beauty and moments from San Diego’s world-renowned beaches, you’ll find Legacy Resort Hotel & Spa. Surrounded by the Legacy International Center, a state-of-the-art complex with countless features and attractions, the resort is unparalleled amidst San Diego and Southern California hotels. There is no more ideal destination for both leisure and corporate travel than right here at 875 Hotel Cir. S, San Diego, CA 92108. Visit: https://legacyresortandspa.com/

Tag: Concerts.Cafe

Schmooze Jazz Issue 2 Explores the World of Jazz Culture with Dynamic Content and Contemporary Jazz Luminaries

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Bunny Brunel, Stanley Clarke, Kyle Eastwood, & Armand Sabal-Lecco Take Center Stage for an Unforgettable Night of Bass!

(All Photos by Sheryl Aronson)

Concerts.Cafe Presents Myron McKinley’s “The Speakeasy” with Rebecca Jade, Adam Aejaye Jackson, and Sy Smith

Florentino Buenaventura (CEO of EnterTalk and founder of Concerts.Cafe) launched the first of many in-person musical performances with artist-branded coffee and an all-star musical lineup!