Back to Jazz In The Woods by popular demand, she is already a groundbreaking star in the contemporary jazz world, Abair has had three #1 hit singles on the Radio & Records charts, her last CD debuted #1 on Billboard's Contemporary Jazz chart, and her debut album stayed in the Top 10 for 19 consecutive weeks and was named the #1 most played Contemporary Jazz CD of 2003 by Jazz Week. She also hosts a popular weekly syndicated radio show called "Chill with Mindi Abair" that is broadcast in 40 markets in the U.S. and abroad. Each week, she features cutting edge music by artists such as Zero 7, Air, Thievery Corporation, and remixes of classic jazz artists such as Billie Holiday and Nina Simone. A hugely popular solo concert and festival attraction over the past seven years throughout the U.S., Abair recently performed for fans in Japan, Istanbul and Romania.
Where do you go from #1? If you're singer, songwriter and saxophonist Mindi Abair-whose 2006 release Life Less Ordinary debuted at the top of Billboard's contemporary jazz chart-you step out of your comfort zone, reach deep inside, follow your heart, write a bunch of killer songs showcasing your dynamic vocals like never before and, yes, aim for the Stars.
With the highly anticipated release of Abair's aptly titled debut produced by her company 23 Music Group on Peak Records, a division of the Concord Music Group, the amazingly versatile artist bursts onto the pop scene with gale force. She adds a refreshingly unique voice to an exciting new generation of crossover artists who are, like her, powerful instrumentalists as well as thought-provoking singer/songwriters. Beginning with the promotion of the title cut "Stars" to AC Radio, the Florida raised, Los Angeles-based performer's unique hybrid sound and mix of cool vulnerability and utter conviction is going to give all of them -John Mayer, Feist, Corinne Bailey Rae, Sara Bareilles, Norah Jones - a run for their barrier breaking money.
With a sound dancing between gutbucket soul, N'awlins grit-down funk and horn fueled Motown pop, Mingo Fishtrap is an anomaly in the contemporary music scene. With each album, the group gravitates closer to the classic sounds that inspired them to learn their craft. What's old is new again; with young audiences flocking to see a live show that lays its musical roots more in 1969 than 2009. Mingo Fishtrap traces its beginnings to the mid 90s when Roger Blevins and another five of the group's eight members were attending the University of North Texas' Jazz Studies program. Originally derived as a loose, after-class jam, Mingo covered songs from Otis Redding, Tower of Power, the Neville Brothers and other soul and funk masters with no particular professional ambition.
Erin has the rare mix of sophistication and class with a sincere kindness and approachability. Her easy smile only enhances the talent and training that is so compelling in her performances. Erin's talent and appeal have been lauded in the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Jazz Times, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and many other major publications. The Erin Bode Group has performed nationwide at venues such as Blues Alley in Washington D.C, Zanzibar Blue and World Cafe Live in Philadelphia, and at Sweet Rhythm and Joe's Pub in New York. They have played three European tours, as well as a stint at the Cotton Club in Tokyo, Japyan. Erin has opened for Jamie Cullum, Michael Buble, Chris Botti and a host of other high profile musicians. She has received classical training and holds a bachelors degree in music.
NICK COLIONNE - Jazz Guitar and Vocals With Soul - www.nickcolionne.com
Red-hot guitarist and vocalist Nick Colionne continues his blazing success into 2010. Nick has been described as "one of the most exceptional performers to come along on the jazz scene in a long time". His newest CD "NO LIMITS", on the prestigious label KOCH Records, debuted to rave reviews and the first single, the title tune "No Limits", is climbing high on the charts. The CD reflects Nick's dynamic "live" performances with its blend of jazz, R&B, soul and blues, with the added bonus of his rich baritone vocals. Nick is frequently referred to as "the best dressed man in jazz", and he enjoys an on-going endorsement from the men's designer line Stacy Adams as well as a longtime endorsement with Epiphone Guitars (currently featuring him in their national advertising campaigns). He also counts among his sponsors Gibson Strings and Accessories and AKG Electronics. The Chicago native learned to play at 9 from his step-father, was a touring pro by 15 and early on honed his skills playing with R&B legends the Staples Singers, Curtis Mayfield, The Impressions, Natalie Cole and more.
Steve Cole - Jazz Saxaphonist - www.stevecolemusic.net
The saxophonist is one of the most celebrated players in contemporary jazz, having sold hundreds of thousands of albums worldwide and scored four #1 R&R Smooth Jazz hits. He attended Northwestern University, where he explored modern classical music for the saxophone under the tutelage of internationally recognized educator Fred Hemke. Cole began his professional career, playing sessions and club dates wherever possible; he recorded with blues legend Junior Wells and began playing, writing and producing with Atlantic Records artists Brian Culbertson. His visibility at the label grew, and soon Cole signed his own deal with Atlantic. He released his debut disc, Stay Awhile, in 1998; it yielded the hits "Where the Night Begins," "When I Think of You" and "Say It Again" and earned Cole a Prism Award for Best New Artist at the 2000 Oasis Smooth Jazz Awards. Additionally, Steve has toured and/or recording with Boz Scaggs, Larry Carlton, Jeff Lorber Brian Culbertson, Freddie Cole, Cyrus Chestnut, KMFDM, Rick Braun and is a founding member, along with Jeff Kashiwa and Kim Waters of The Sax Pack.
A saxophonist, composer, producer and educator, Bobby Watson grew up in Kansas City,
Kansas. He trained formally at the University of Miami, a school with a distinguished and
well-respected jazz program. After graduating, he proceeded to earn his "doctorate" - on
the bandstand -- as musical director of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers. In 2000, he was approached to return to his native midwestern surroundings on the Kansas-Missouri border. Watson accepted the challenge and subsequently that same year he was selected as the first "William D. and Mary Grant/Missouri, Distinguished Professorship in Jazz Studies." The past six years he has served as the director of jazz studies at the University of Missouri/Kansas City, Conservatory of Music although he still manages to balance live engagements throughout the world with his teaching responsibilities.
This 30 something guitarist brings a refreshing blend of funky jazz, world rhythms, smooth urban stylings, and atmospheric soundscapes. In just 5 short years, he has surely carved out a niche in the contemporary-smooth jazz world. Matt Marshak has shared the stage with Spyro Grya, Ryan Shaw, Bob James, The Sax Pack, Kenny Garrett, Richard Bona, Peter White, Stanley Jordan and many other greats. Always bringing an upbeat and uplifting vibe and presentation, audiences can expect to be thrilled by his handcrafted, masterful, soulful guitar playing. Inspired by the sounds of Larry Carlton, BB King, Robben Ford, George Benson, Matt's appeal is wide and all inclusive. Along for the ride is his incredible band, and a diverse set list giving something for everyone. The last few years have brought Matt to some of Europe's biggest Jazz Fests, have placed him on the top 30 jazz chart, and have brought forth Matt's latest release "On The Rocks." He's a new face, he brings a new energy, and he is a new voice in the world of Jazz. He is Matt Marshak.
Back to Jazz In The Woods by popular demand, she is already a groundbreaking star in the contemporary jazz world, Abair has had three #1 hit singles on the Radio & Records charts, her last CD debuted #1 on Billboard's Contemporary Jazz chart, and her debut album stayed in the Top 10 for 19 consecutive weeks and was named the #1 most played Contemporary Jazz CD of 2003 by Jazz Week. She also hosts a popular weekly syndicated radio show called "Chill with Mindi Abair" that is broadcast in 40 markets in the U.S. and abroad. Each week, she features cutting edge music by artists such as Zero 7, Air, Thievery Corporation, and remixes of classic jazz artists such as Billie Holiday and Nina Simone. A hugely popular solo concert and festival attraction over the past seven years throughout the U.S., Abair recently performed for fans in Japan, Istanbul and Romania. 
With a sound dancing between gutbucket soul, N'awlins grit-down funk and horn fueled Motown pop, Mingo Fishtrap is an anomaly in the contemporary music scene. With each album, the group gravitates closer to the classic sounds that inspired them to learn their craft. What's old is new again; with young audiences flocking to see a live show that lays its musical roots more in 1969 than 2009. Mingo Fishtrap traces its beginnings to the mid 90s when Roger Blevins and another five of the group's eight members were attending the University of North Texas' Jazz Studies program. Originally derived as a loose, after-class jam, Mingo covered songs from Otis Redding, Tower of Power, the Neville Brothers and other soul and funk masters with no particular professional ambition. 
Erin has the rare mix of sophistication and class with a sincere kindness and approachability. Her easy smile only enhances the talent and training that is so compelling in her performances. Erin's talent and appeal have been lauded in the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Jazz Times, the St. Louis Post-Dispatch and many other major publications. The Erin Bode Group has performed nationwide at venues such as Blues Alley in Washington D.C, Zanzibar Blue and World Cafe Live in Philadelphia, and at Sweet Rhythm and Joe's Pub in New York. They have played three European tours, as well as a stint at the Cotton Club in Tokyo, Japyan. Erin has opened for Jamie Cullum, Michael Buble, Chris Botti and a host of other high profile musicians. She has received classical training and holds a bachelors degree in music. 
A saxophonist, composer, producer and educator, Bobby Watson grew up in Kansas City,
Kansas. He trained formally at the University of Miami, a school with a distinguished and
well-respected jazz program. After graduating, he proceeded to earn his "doctorate" - on
the bandstand -- as musical director of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers. In 2000, he was approached to return to his native midwestern surroundings on the Kansas-Missouri border. Watson accepted the challenge and subsequently that same year he was selected as the first "William D. and Mary Grant/Missouri, Distinguished Professorship in Jazz Studies." The past six years he has served as the director of jazz studies at the University of Missouri/Kansas City, Conservatory of Music although he still manages to balance live engagements throughout the world with his teaching responsibilities.
This 30 something guitarist brings a refreshing blend of funky jazz, world rhythms, smooth urban stylings, and atmospheric soundscapes. In just 5 short years, he has surely carved out a niche in the contemporary-smooth jazz world. Matt Marshak has shared the stage with Spyro Grya, Ryan Shaw, Bob James, The Sax Pack, Kenny Garrett, Richard Bona, Peter White, Stanley Jordan and many other greats. Always bringing an upbeat and uplifting vibe and presentation, audiences can expect to be thrilled by his handcrafted, masterful, soulful guitar playing. Inspired by the sounds of Larry Carlton, BB King, Robben Ford, George Benson, Matt's appeal is wide and all inclusive. Along for the ride is his incredible band, and a diverse set list giving something for everyone. The last few years have brought Matt to some of Europe's biggest Jazz Fests, have placed him on the top 30 jazz chart, and have brought forth Matt's latest release "On The Rocks." He's a new face, he brings a new energy, and he is a new voice in the world of Jazz. He is Matt Marshak.
