Sounds of Berklee

Big D and the Kids Table, Dirt Lip

Mon, 30 Jan 2012 10:00:00 -0500

Since the nine founding members of Big D and the Kids Table graduated from Berklee in the late '90s, the band has toured nonstop, playing up to 220 shows a year. They have toured with Rancid, Flogging Molly, the Suicide Machines, and the Dropkick Murphys and played every Warped tour since 2003.

Tre Corda, Church Rhythms

Tue, 24 Jan 2012 10:00:00 -0500

Tre Corda's work blends composition and improvisation in new and unexpected ways, using the musical vocabulary of composers like Bartok and Stravinsky, as well as jazz and popular music. Its members are Berklee faculty members Tim Ray (piano), Greg Hopkins (trumpet), and Eugene Friesen.

Michael Chlasciak, The One You Love to Hate

Tue, 17 Jan 2012 10:00:00 -0500

Metal Mike Chlasciak '94 has performed with many of the darkest names in the metal pantheon, including Rob Halford, Ozzy Osbourne, Sebastian Bach, and Axl Rose. He has released several instructional videos; appeared on television shows; and penned magazine articles and instructional books.

Joe Lovano, Passport

Tue, 10 Jan 2012 10:00:00 -0500

Joe Lovano '72, Berklee's Gary Burton Chair in Jazz Performance, has earned numerous accolades—from a DownBeat triple crown to a Grammy Award in 2000. Now he's up for another. Listen to Lovano's "Passport," from the Grammy-nominated Bird Songs.

Terje Gewelt, Small Country

Thu, 05 Jan 2012 10:00:00 -0500

Norwegian bassist Terje Gewelt has appeared on more than 80 recordings by Scandanavian, European, and American jazz artists like Billy Cobham, Tommy Smith, Misha Alperin, and Michael Schrieve. Gewelt, a 1987 alumnus, has also released eight albums as a leader on his own label, Resonant Music, which has put out records by Espen Rud, Ahmad Mansour, and others.

Manami Morita, Magic

Mon, 19 Dec 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Alumna Manami Morita helps close out 2011 with a concert on New Year's Eve that's a centerpiece of the First Night Boston festival. Listen to Morita's "Magic," from her album For You.

Baby Atlas, On Our Shoulders

Fri, 16 Dec 2011 12:00:00 -0500

Baby Atlas is a trio from Austin, Texas that Berklee bass professor Danny Morris calls "southern-fried soul, with freshness, optimism, and joie de vivre." The band includes 2006 alumnus David Jimenez and 2008 alumna Wendy Simmons, and recently released its self-titled debut album.

Maggie Scott, This Can't Be Love

Mon, 05 Dec 2011 12:00:00 -0500

Berklee professor Maggie Scott, a master jazz pianist and vocalist, will perform with five of her former students in a Signature Series concert December 8. Special guest alumni include Antonia Bennett, Lalah Hathaway, Robin McKelle, Esperanza Spalding, and Nadia Washington. "This Can't Be Love" is from Scott's album Changes.

The Spanish Channel, Missed Opportunity

Wed, 30 Nov 2011 12:00:00 -0500

Vocalist Jaime Garamella '06 attended Berklee with guitarist Lauren Stockner '08, but it wasn't until they connected with producer Tim Mitchell '05 that things really caught fire. The energetic performances of their band, the Spanish Channel, have won over wide-ranging crowds, garnering a national battle of the bands title, a sold-out CD release in New York, and a spot opening for Tim Reynolds.

Da'Rayia, Not Great Men

Mon, 21 Nov 2011 12:00:00 -0500

Da'Rayia Wilson was the first winner of the Berklee and Essence magazine hip-hop songwriting contest. Check out her group's cover of Gang of Four's "Not Great Men," featured on Heavy Rotation Records' new CD, Under the Influence.

Laszlo Gardony, Lady Madonna

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 12:00:00 -0500

Piano professor Laszlo Gardony '87 has just released his ninth album, Signature Time, a blend of originals and ambitious reinventions of classic tunes. Gardony says, "Today's music owes a lot to the birthplace of culture and music - Africa. This album is an acknowledgment of how many genres draw upon the heritage of African music, which has enriched my own cultural experience."

Christian Scott, Jenacide

Mon, 7 Nov 2011 12:00:00 -0500

Edison Prize-winning and Grammy-nominated trumpeter, bandleader, and composer Christian Scott '06 is widely considered to be one of the leading jazz artists of his generation. He returns to Berklee for the first episode of NPR's The Checkout - Live at Berklee on November 17. "Jenacide" is from his 2010 album, Yesterday You Said Tomorrow.

Field Trip, There's Shag on Jupiter

Mon, 31 Oct 2011 16:00:00 -0500

Instrumental funk-jazz quartet Field Trip features 2003 alumni Ryan Fleming and Tim-Paul Weiner, and recalls the groundbreaking collaborations between John Scofield and Medeski Martin & Wood. Field Trip is supporting the album with a tour in Sweden before returning to the United States to promote it throughout the Northeast.

Andrew List, Dark and Mysterious

Mon, 24 Oct 2011 16:00:00 -0500

Professor Andrew List joins a number of faculty composers for Fusion: An Artistic Crossroads on November 7, a combination of jazz, classical, and electronic music; video; and dance. Check out his "Violin Concerto–Mvt. 2: Dark and Mysterious," performed by the Prague Radio Symphony Orchestra.

CMJ Music Marathon Showcase

Fri, 14 Oct 2011 12:00:00 -0500

Berklee's Heavy Rotation Records showcase at CMJ 2011 features a host of student and alumni talent. This week's podcast features a musical sampler of artists appearing in the showcase at the Bowery Poetry Club, 308 Bowery between Bleecker & Houston, NYC, October 21, 6:30 p.m.

Ivan Lins, Daquilo Que Eu Sei

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Three-time Latin Grammy–winner Ivan Lins joins Berklee students October 26 for a Signature Series concert. The Brazilian pianist and vocalist is one of the most-recorded songwriters in history.

Dead On, Till the Morning Comes

Thu, 06 Oct 2011 12:00:00 -0500

Alumnus Marc Muller has seen and done just about everything. He's played the Super Bowl with Shania Twain and backed up household names in every genre of music, from Branford Marsalis to the Backstreet Boys. On October 22, Muller comes to the Berklee Performance Center with his team of cracker-jack musicians who perform note-for-note renditions of the Grateful Dead's finest recordings under the moniker "Dead On."

Pinn Panelle, Radio Free Europe

Fri, 30 Sep 2011 12:00:00 -0500

Student group Pinn Panelle gives the recently disbanded R.E.M. the dubstep/electronica treatment on Heavy Rotation Records' Under the Influence CD. Check out their cover of "Radio Free Europe."

Gary Burton, Was It So Long Ago

Mon, 12 Sep 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Grammy-winning pioneer of the four-mallet vibraphone technique Gary Burton closes out the Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival September 25. Check out "Was It So Long Ago," from Common Ground by the New Gary Burton Quartet.

Joe Walsh, Wolfcat Breakdown

Tue, 06 Sep 2011 10:00:00 -0500

As Berklee’s first-ever mandolin principal, Joe Walsh '07 toured nationally on behalf of the college, including a performance at the Kennedy Center to honor Earl Scruggs. When he's not supporting artists like Emmylou Harris and Gillian Welch, Walsh spends his time teaching music to the students of the 317 Main Street Music Center in Yarmouth, Maine.

James Farm, Polliwog

Mon, 29 Aug 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Acoustic jazz quartet James Farm, featuring saxophonist Joshua Redman, pianist Aaron Parks, bassist Matt Penman, and drummer Eric Harland, opens the Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival September 23.

Neara Russell, Roses and Thorns

Mon, 22 Aug 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Neara Russell '10 recently moved to Los Angeles to pursue her career as an artist and studio musician. She is a keyboardist and background singer for Sony/JRecords pop star BC Jean, with whom she has appeared on The View and Access Hollywood. Her eclectic, self-produced release Noise and Silence has garnered rave reviews in the press.

Katrina Bello, Lovedrug

Mon, 15 Aug 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Nigerian-American soul/R&B vocalist Katrina Bello performs a free concert on Georges Island August 27 as part of Berklee's summer concert series. Get a preview with Bello's "Lovedrug," from her recently released EP, The Boiling Point.

Arooj Aftab, Bolo Na

Mon, 01 Aug 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Before Arooj Aftab moved from Pakistan to Boston a few years ago, she studied guitar and production through our online school, Berkleemusic.com. Now a Berklee grad, Aftab writes and sings compositions influenced by artists in the classical Sufi tradition, as well as by Western icons of neo-soul and jazz.

Dave Reffett, The Call of the Flames

Mon, 25 Jul 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Guitarist Dave Reffett ’06 worked in the business and promotions departments of Sanctuary Records and Virgin Records/EMI before launching his solo career. His star-studded album The Call of the Flames received several Grammy nominations, and he has been repeatedly featured in Guitar World magazine.

Omar Thomas Large Ensemble, And When It Rains

Mon, 18 Jul 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Award-winning composer Omar Thomas, a faculty member in Berklee's Harmony Department, leads an 18-piece band showcasing some of Boston's finest young jazz players. The Omar Thomas Large Ensemble also features several Berklee faculty members. The group's repertoire includes Thomas's original compositions and arrangements, several of which will appear on his forthcoming album, I Am.

Matthew Rybicki, Lowcountry Boil

Mon, 11 Jul 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Bassist, composer, and educator Matthew Rybicki '95 has performed at the Village Vanguard and the Blue Note with jazz luminaries like Wynton Marsalis, Nnenna Freelon, and Mark Whitfield. His clinics and programs at Lincoln Center, the Whitney Museum, and schools and colleges across the country have been popular with students, and AllAboutJazz.com calls his 2011 release, Driven, "a highly enjoyable, well-regulated record that doesn't hurt for surprises."

Zac Zinger Group, Cerberos

Tue, 05 Jul 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Composer, saxophonist, and EWI player Zac Zinger just graduated from Berklee a few months ago, but he's been building a long list of credits since taking up the horn at the age of nine. His band, the Zac Zinger Group, displays influences from jazz, soul, funk, and other styles.

Gina Cimmelli, Don't Be Mad

Thu, 30 Jun 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Gina Cimmelli and her catchy single "Don't Be Mad" have been nominated for a whole host of honors, including the Independent Music Awards, the Searchlight songwriting contest, and the Roots music report.

Foxtrot, Foxtrot Hops

Mon, 20 Jun 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Student rock band Foxtrot describes themselves as "equal parts Radiohead, Incubus, and Mute Math." They've already performed the Warped Tour, Carnegie Hall, and CBGB.

Adam Glasser, Mjo

Mon, 13 Jun 2011 10:00:00 -0500

International influences elevate this torch-carrying chromatic harmonica player above the fray. "Mjo" is Glasser's tribute to late South African drummer Churchill Jolobe, with click song vocals by Pinise Saul.

Brian Dunne, Often Times

Tue, 07 Jun 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Hailing from the small town of Monroe, New York, pop/rock solo artist Brian Dunne is currently based in Boston. His influences span a wide range of artists, including Sam Cooke, Tom Waits, and Bruce Springsteen.

Morwenna Lasko and Jay Pun, One Moore Farewell

Tue, 31 May 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Violinist Morwenna Lasko and guitarist Jay Pun met in a class called Music of India in their last semester at Berklee in 2003. The two found a common interest in exploring musical vocabulary off the beaten path and moved to Charlottesville, Virginia to incubate their unique sound in this hip enclave at the foot of the Blue Ridge Mountains.

Tiana Star, Room to Grow

Tue, 24 May 2011 12:00:00 -0500

Singer-songwriter Tiana Star '03 absorbed a wide range of influences in a childhood that spanned six states, Canada, and the Ukraine. She was a featured showcase at the 2010 Sundance Film Festival and as a result has been commissioned to write music for several films currently in production.

Rebecca Loebe, Mystery Prize

Mon, 16 May 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Singer-songwriter Rebecca Loebe '04 plays more than 100 shows a year, living out of her car and by the grace of her devoted fans. Her 2010 release "Mystery Prize" spent nine weeks on the Americana Top 40 chart, and she was one of the inaugural contestants on NBC's hit reality show "The Voice."

Il Abanico, Keep Calling

Mon, 09 May 2011 12:00:00 -0500

One of the more than 900 students graduating this month is Juliana Ronderos, vocalist for the Colombian group Il Abanico. The duo will perform July 14 as part of Berklee's Summer Concert Series. "Keep Calling" is featured on Berklee's Music Technology Division CD.

Gemma Genazzano, Way, Way Down

Mon, 02 May 2011 10:00:00 -0500

International songstress Gemma Genazzano '02 has toured and recorded with artists as diverse as Sting, Bobby McFerrin, Shania Twain, and Nine Inch Nails. The daughter of Italian actor Oswaldo Genazzano, she has claimed her own place in the spotlight, performing at European jazz festivals and American institutions like the Blue Note and Madison Square Garden.

Mavis Staples, Wonderful Savior

Mon, 25 Apr 2011 12:00:00 -0500

Mavis Staples and her family catapulted gospel into the pop mainstream as the Staple Singers; these days, Staples is often viewed as one of the greatest vocalists in the world. She'll receive an honorary degree at Berklee's 2011 commencement.

Mark Small, Mississippi Revisited

Mon, 11 Apr 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Mark Small’s music is a distinctly American blend of jazz, blues, sacred, and classical. His pieces have placed in international competitions and been recorded by the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and the Los Angeles Guitar Quartet. Small is also a regular contributor to a range of guitar magazines and is the managing editor of Berklee Today.

Karmin, Let It Go

Mon, 28 Mar 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Songwriters Amy Heidemann '08 and Nick Noonan '08 strip their performance down to the essentials of music: melody, harmony, and rhythm. Using only their voices, an acoustic guitar, and a Peruvian box drum called a cajón, they manage to create fully realized covers of pop hits and their original songs.

Ilan Bar-Lavi, Bliss

Mon, 21 Mar 2011 10:00:00 -0500

The music of Israeli-Mexian guitarist Ilan Bar-Lavi rings with authentic globalism, blending Latin and Middle Eastern music with rock and jazz. Bar-Lavi has enjoyed a rigorous touring schedule since leaving Berklee, and has performed on many of the jazz world’s top stages.

Alan Silvestri, End Credits, from Back to the Future III

Mon, 14 Mar 2011 10:00:00 -0500

Grammy winner and Oscar nominee Alan Silvestri, a 1970 Berklee alumnus, has composed music for several popular films, including Back to the Future, Who Framed Roger Rabbit?, Forrest Gump, and Polar Express. He's one of several guest conductors at an April 2011 concert at Berklee.

Christine Vaindirlis, Indaba

Fri, 11 Mar 2011 12:00:00 -0500

London-born Christine Vaindirlis was raised in apartheid-era Johannesburg before leaving to study at the Milan Conservatory and Berklee. Her debut album Dance Mama! is influenced by traditional jazz and South African music, and features many accomplished Berklee alumni.

Steve Vai, Die to Live

Mon, 28 Feb 2011 12:00:00 -0500

Guitar virtuoso and alumnus Steve Vai is collaborating with Berkleemusic to teach an online guitar course, one that they hope will land them in the Guinness World Records book. "Die to Live" is from Vai's live recording, Where the Wild Things Are.

Jupiter One, Countdown

Mon, 21 Feb 2011 12:00:00 -0500

K Ishibashi and Zac Colwell founded Jupiter One after working together as traveling musicians in the Barnum's Kaleidoscope orchestra. Many of their tracks have been used in video games, and they have opened for Regina Spektor on recent tours.

Cedric Burnside, Ramblin' on My Mind

Mon, 14 Feb 2011 12:00:00 -0500

"Cedric Burnside is the grandson of legendary R.L. Burnside and winner of the Blues Foundation's 2010 Blues Music Award for best drummer. On his version of "Robert Johnson's "Ramblin' on My Mind," Burnside is accompanied by the Big Head Blues Club.

Esthema, Eastern Dance

Mon, 07 Feb 2011 12:00:00 -0500

"Eastern Dance" is a modern-rock interpretation of a traditional Turkish/Greek belly-dancing rhythm called a tsifteteli. Hailed by Guitar Player magazine as a "world class [group] with authenticity, aplomb, and exuberance," Boston-based Esthema fuses progressive rock and jazz with traditional music of Eastern Europe and the Middle East. Three members of Esthema are Berklee alumni.

Richard Smallwood, We Magnify Your Name

Mon, 31 Jan 2011 12:00:43 -0500

Richard Smallwood has created a forward-looking gospel style that brings together R&B, pop, soul, and classical music. He's performing with Berklee students and faculty in February 2011. "We Magnify Your Name" originally appeared on his release, Live.

Guthrie Govan, Fives

Tue, 18 Jan 2011 12:00:59 -0500

Guthrie Govan is one of the most innovative and virtuosic guitarists to emerge from the rock/fusion scene in recent years. The England native—comfortable in a range of styles, from mainstream shred rock to chicken-picking country—performs with faculty in January. "Fives" is from his Erotic Cakes release.

Takeshi Ohbayashi, Find Her

Mon, 13 Dec 2010 12:00:30 -0500

Virtuoso jazz pianist Takeshi Ohbayashi '10 is a member of the inaugural class of students selected to be in the Berklee Global Jazz Institute. He and alumnus Lionel Loueke perform as part of NPR's Toast of the Nation on December 31, 2010. "Find Her" is a new composition from Ohbayashi and his group.

Tristan Allen with Amanda Palmer, János vs. Wonderland

Wed, 24 Nov 2010 12:00:35 -0500

New York-based pianist Tristan Allen was a 17-year-old student in Berklee's Five-Week program this summer when serendipitously met one of his heroes, Amanda Palmer, in front of Berklee's main building. Now the two are writing and recording together, and will perform at Berklee in December 2010. "János vs. Wonderland" features both pianists on one instrument.

Kathy Mattea, Red-Winged Blackbird

Mon, 15 Nov 2010 12:00:22 -0500

Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Kathy Mattea has mixed folk, celtic, and country on many of her best-selling songs and albums. Having come to Berklee as a visiting artist in the past, she returns for the spring 2011 Signature Series. Her cover of "Red-Winged Blackbird" appears on her latest release, Coal.

Larry Harlow, La Cartera

Mon, 01 Nov 2010 12:00:18 -0400

Afro-Cuban music legend Larry Harlow performs with students at Berklee in November 2010. His work as bandleader, composer, and producer for Fania Records helped popularize salsa music. "La Cartera" is one of his originals.

The Prigs, Tonight, Tonight, Tonight

Tue, 19 Oct 2010 12:00:16 -0400

The Prigs are a nine-piece hard pop band with captivating songs that often feature powerhouse horn arrangements. Led by two Berklee alumni—Mack Price and Bill Flynn—and Evan Smith, the band will perform at Berklee's 2010 CMJ showcase. "Tonight, Tonight, Tonight" is one the band's newest tunes.

Berklee World Strings, Night Rider

Mon, 04 Oct 2010 12:00:34 -0400

The Berklee World Strings is one of the college's newer groups, an improvising string orchestra that can tackle jazz, bluegrass, contemporary classical, and a range of other styles. "Night Rider" is an Eddie Sauter composition, performed at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts Millenium Stage, May 12, 2010, as part of the Berklee Conservatory Project.

Grace Kelly, Filosophical Flying Fish

Mon, 20 Sep 2010 12:00:09 -0400

Boston-based jazz saxophonist Grace Kelly was touring the world as a bandleader before she even enrolled at Berklee. Only 18 years old, Kelly has won admirers among the biggest names in jazz. She performs at the 2010 Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival. "Filosophical Flying Fish" is one of Kelly's compositions.

Kurt Rosenwinkel, Our Secret World

Tue, 07 Sep 2010 12:00:23 -0400

Philadelphia-bred guitarist Kurt Rosenwinkel, a Berklee alumnus, has established himself as a young jazz master. He performs new music with the group OJM at the 2010 Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival. "Our Secret World" is the title track from Rosenwinkel's latest release.

Bad Plus, Super America

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 12:00:46 -0400

Hard-hitting instrumental jazz trio the Bad Plus has proven to be uninterested in conventions of jazz, performing originals and covers that manage to be accessible and avant-garde at the same time. The group performs at the 2010 Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival. "Super America" closes the group's new release, Never Stop.

Folk Arts Quartet, Mick's Knitted Triplets

Thu, 05 Aug 2010 12:00:45 -0400

The Folk Arts Quartet, founded when its members were Berklee students, combines traditional fiddle styles with the arts heritage of the classical string quartet, contributing to a style many are calling Chambergrass. This edition of Sounds of Berklee features the FAQ performing "Mick's Knitted Triplets."

Ron Reid, Savannah Dance

Mon, 26 Jul 2010 12:00:01 -0400

A native of Trinidad and Tobago, faculty bassist, steel drummer, and composer Ron Reid has established himself as a master of calypso and soca music over the past 30 years. His Sunsteel Sextest is made up entirely of Berklee faculty and alumni. Together, they play a mix of Caribbean folk, Afro-Cuban, and jazz melodies, such as this month's podcast, "Savannah Dance."

Rajdulari Barnes, Me and You

Tue, 13 Jul 2010 12:00:32 -0400

Vocalist/composer Rajdulari Barnes has experienced Berklee from both sides: as a student and, now, a staff member. The former lead singer of world music band Zili Misik, Barnes has been fronting world, jazz, and funk bands for ten years. Now she's focused on jazz, with her very own Rajdulari Jazz Project. The band is playing concerts around the Boston area this summer as part of Berklee's Summer Concert Series. The lastest Sounds of Berklee podcast features a Barnes original, "Me and You."

Emily Elbert, Do Without

Mon, 28 Jun 2010 12:00:04 -0400

Raised in Texas on a musical diet of Antonio Carlos Jobim, James Taylor, and '60s radio, 21-year-old Emily Elbert first picked up the guitar when she was 15. She has moved to Boston to study at Berklee but continues to gig nationally, including tours with G Love and Special Sauce and Kaki King. Music lovers have watched her YouTube videos in droves, including nearly 250,000 views of her version of Michael Jackson's "Thriller." Named the Best New Artist of 2008 by WUMB-FM, in Boston, Elbert is recording her second album this summer. "Do Without" features Elbert at her best, with strong melodies, straight-to-the-heart vocals, and intricate guitar work.

Hailey Niswanger, Confeddie

Mon, 14 Jun 2010 12:00:19 -0400

Saxophonist Hailey Niswanger is a Berklee student and she's only 20 years old, but she's already established herself as a serious jazz artist. She's shared the stage with Dee Dee Bridgewater, Wynton Marsalis, Christian McBride, McCoy Tyner and many others. A student in the inaugural class of the Berklee Global Jazz Institute, Niswanger recently released a debut recording that so impressed legendary jazz writer Nat Hentoff he wrote a profile of her for the Wall Street Journal. This Sounds of Berklee podcast features Niswanger and her band on the disc's title track,"Confeddie."

Tubby Love, Constant Motion

Tue, 01 Jun 2010 12:00:37 -0400

Tubby Love is a Berklee student group with a mission to help lead what it calls a "reggae soul revolution." While the group's music looks forward, there's no mistaking its nod to the reggae tradition of spreading positive messages. The group plays several free outdoor shows as part of Berklee's 2010 Summer Concert Series. This Sounds of Berklee podcast features the Tubby Love tune, "Constant Motion."

Julia Easterlin, A Mild Response

Mon, 17 May 2010 12:00:09 -0400

Versatile student vocalist, pianist, and guitarist Julia Easterlin released two albums at the age of 17, one a jazz disc and the other, folk-rock. While a member of the Grammy Jazz Ensemble, she performed with Allen Toussaint, the Neville Brothers, and others. She's developing a buzz for her concerts, during which she'll often use a looping station to create and build backing tracks as she performs live. Her mastery of technology and various instruments notwithstanding, it is Easterlin's songs and vocal powers that are really building audiences for her music. One excellent example is her original, "A Mild Response," featured in this episode of Sounds of Berklee.

Brianne Crawford, Aeroplane (Flipped It)

Mon, 03 May 2010 12:00:45 -0400

This edition of Sounds of Berklee recognizes the student musicians who help make their classmates sound good in the recording studio. While the artist and songwriter Brianne Crawford clearly has loads of talent, her song, "Aeroplane (Flipped It)" comes to life at the hands of music production and engineering majors Avi Gunther and Tom Kain, who produced and engineered the recording, respectively. Gunther and Kain, both seniors, will join 860 Berklee graduates at the 2010 commencement.

Lihi Haruvi, On the Way Back

Fri, 16 Apr 2010 12:00:44 -0400

Berklee's student-run Jazz Revelation Records released its seventh compilation album, Birds of a Feather, in April 2010. The disc features eleven young jazz artists from around the globe—each leading a band performing original compositions. The scope of the CD is wide-ranging, with artists performing styles including traditional and contemporary jazz, nu-jazz, fusion, and jazz with experimental, classical, world, electronica, ambient, and funk influences. One of the composer/bandleaders is Israel-born alto saxophonist Lihi Haruvi, who has performed with Jeff "Tain" Watts and Joel Frahm. This Sounds of Berklee podcast features Haruvi and her band on the track, "On the Way Back."

Gary Burton, Sea Journey

Mon, 05 Apr 2010 12:00:33 -0400

Vibraphonist Gary Burton's influence on music and music education has been monumental. He came to Berklee as a teen in 1960 and went on tour with saxophonist Stan Getz when he was barely into his 20s. Brandishing a pioneering vibraphone technique and approach to improvising, Burton's recordings as a leader and sideman earned him accolades and Grammy Awards. Even after joining the Berklee faculty in 1971—he later served as a senior-ranking administrator for two decades—Burton continued his trailblazing music career. Burton and Berklee celebrate their 50-year connection in April 2010 with a concert featuring the vibist and many of his former bandmates. "Sea Journey" is a track from his recent Quartet Live disc, also featuring Pat Metheny, Steve Swallow, and Antonio Sanchez.

Tais Alvarenga, Trafego

Mon, 22 Mar 2010 12:00:47 -0400

Nearly 25 percent of all Berklee students hail from countries outside the United States. The musical melting pot leads to fusions of countless contemporary styles. There's one Berklee concert every year when those global influences are front and center—at the annual International Folk Music Festival. The March 2010 festival features student and faculty artists from 11 countries. One of them is student vocalist and composer Tais Alvarenga, who will perform music from her home country of Brazil. This podcast features one of Alvarenga's original compositions, "Trafego."

Ann Driscoll, Ringmaster

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 12:00:47 -0500

Several bands featuring Berklee students and alumni are off for Austin, Texas, this month, as the college returns to the South by Southwest Music Conference. Several of the artists are student groups that have recorded on Berklee's student-run label, Heavy Rotation Records. Many up-and-coming artists have appeared on HRR compilations, including St. Vincent (as Annie Clark) and members of Passion Pit (as the Peasantry). This year student Ann Driscoll makes the trek. "Ringmaster" is one of two Driscoll tunes appearing on Dorm Sessions 7, the latest HRR release.

Livingston Taylor, Never Lose Hope

Mon, 22 Feb 2010 12:00:22 -0500

Livingston Taylor is one of several artists performing during Berklee's Concert for Haiti in February 2010—the show will range from reggae to old school soul to folk-rock. The concert, which will showcase artists from around the world, will also feature an ensemble from OAMEC, an organization that provides free music education to Haitian children. Taylor, a Berklee faculty member, will perform a set including this podcast's feature track, "Never Lose Hope," from his 2009 release, Last Alaska Moon.

Lionel Loueke, Soul Sound

Tue, 09 Feb 2010 12:00:27 -0500

Berklee's Roots and Reason series—sponsored by Africana Studies—is bringing together musicians from all over the world. Roots and Reason guest artist Lionel Loueke is an EMI recording artist, guitarist, and Berklee alumnus who grew up in Benin, West Africa. His new album, Karibu, combines West African roots traditions with jazz. A recent track, "Soul Sound," features Loueke on solo guitar.

Ben Payton, Boogie Child

Mon, 01 Feb 2010 12:00:32 -0500

This year, Berklee's Africana Studies music programming celebrates the richness of America's roots music traditions. Several concerts and events during February 2010 highlight roots music. One of the guest artists featured during the Roots and Reason concert series is Mississippi Delta blues guitarist Ben Payton. Payton spent years on the Chicago blues scene, playing with artists such as Eddie Shaw and Junior Wells. After returning to his home state of Mississippi, Payton reunited with his Delta-style blues roots. "Boogie Child" is from his latest release, Diggin' Up Old Country Blues.

Julian Lage, Motor Minder

Fri, 01 Jan 2010 00:00:37 -0500

Berklee alumni have been doing well at the Grammys for years. It's not all that surprising, considering some of the talents who attended Berklee; John Mayer, Quincy Jones, Diana Krall, Branford Marsalis, and Bruce Hornsby are a few of the former Berklee students who have won Grammy Awards. To date, Berklee alumni have won 176 Grammys. On January 31, 2010, the National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences will announce the new crop of winners, with 22 alumni in contention for 24 awards. One of them is Julian Lage '08, whose Sounding Point release earned him a nomination for Best Contemporary Jazz Album. This podcast features a track from the Lage record, "Motor Minder."

Mark O'Connor, Gypsy Fantastic

Tue, 01 Dec 2009 12:00:40 -0500

In recent years, Berklee has increasingly become a mecca for people who play bluegrass, cajun, country, blues, gospel, Western swing, and a host of music styles categorized as roots music. The trend is about to formally become a curriculum initiative, as Berklee prepares to launch its American Roots Music Program, with faculty member Matt Glaser as artistic director. Master fiddler and composer Mark O'Connor visits the college in December 2009 to help celebrate, giving master classes and performing with students, alumni, and faculty. "Gypsy Fantastic" is from his Live in New York recording.

Orquestra Was, I Ain't Got Nothin' But Time

Sun, 01 Nov 2009 12:00:21 -0500

For decades, Don Was has been producing some of the biggest names in rock—artists like the Stones, Dylan, and Bonnie Raitt. He's as busy as ever, but in recent months, he's been spending time on the Berklee campus, working with students. During the fall 2009 semester, he put together a band of students to perform a concert featuring songs he's written or produced. One of the tunes the group will perform with Was and faculty member Marty Walsh is from a 1997 release by Orquestra Was. It's called "I Ain't Got Nothin' But Time."

Dafnis Prieto, Si o Si

Thu, 01 Oct 2009 00:00:20 -0400

Cuba-born drummer and composer Dafnis Prieto has been a dynamic force on both the jazz and Latin music scenes since moving to New York 10 years ago. He's been nominated for two Grammy Awards and has played with a long list of stellar musicians, such as Chucho Valdés, Michel Camilo, and Don Byron. The Dafnis Prieto Si o Si Quartet is performing two dates in October 2009 as part of Marsalis Berklee Jams. "Si o Si" is the first track from the group's new live recording.

Donald Harrison, Water Meter

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 12:00:01 -0400

Berklee alumnus and saxophonist Donald Harrison is the originator of the nouveau swing style, which merges acoustic swing with modern r&b, second-line, hip-hop, New Orleans African American roots culture, and reggae rhythms. Harrison has played with many of the big names in jazz, but he has also discovered and nurtured talented up-and-comers like Christian Scott, Mark Whitfield, Dwayne Burno, Christian McBride, Cyrus Chestnut, and rap icon the Notorious B.I.G. He'll be performing in the Berklee BeanTown Jazz Festival's free outdoor show on September 26, 2009. This month's podcast features the Harrison tune "Water Meter."

Terri Lyne Carrington, Sherwood Forest

Sat, 01 Aug 2009 12:00:09 -0400

Berklee alumna Terri Lyne Carrington returned to her alma mater as a faculty member after spending many years building an impressive career as a drummer, composer, and producer. She has worked with a long list of jazz luminaries, including Stan Getz, Herbie Hancock, and Wayne Shorter. As she teaches the next generation of musicians, she continues to put her own stamp on contemporary music. "Sherwood Forest" is a tune from her 2009 release, More to Say . . . (Real Life Story: NextGen). The track was cowritten by Carrington and keyboardist George Duke and also features Duke and bassist Christian McBride.

Nini & Ben, Mother

Mon, 01 Jun 2009 12:00:16 -0400

Poignant songwriting and masterful musicianship come together in the music of Nini & Ben, a duo that accentuates its acoustic sound with gritty slide guitar and pedal steel. Nini & Ben have been writing songs together since their teenage years and arrived at Berklee together to take their music to another level. Their song, "Mother," featured here, also appeared on Dorm Sessions 6, the 2009 compilation from Berklee's student-run Heavy Rotation Records.

Cole DeGenova and the Peoples Republic, Take 'Em Home

Fri, 01 May 2009 12:00:41 -0400

Cole DeGenova and the Peoples Republic fuse several styles in its brand of danceable music: funk, r&b, jazz, blues, and rock, for starters. DeGenova founded the group in 2007 and has led it on tours in the U.S. and Europe. A Chicago native, DeGenova is a pianist, vocalist, and percussionist who has performed with top jazz and blues artists, such as Kurt Elling, Patricia Barber, and Jon Faddis. DeGenova and the Peoples Republic are one of several student groups performing in Berklee's Summer Concert Series in 2009.

Lalah Hathaway, Breathe

Wed, 01 Apr 2009 00:00:44 -0400

Vocalist and songwriter Lalah Hathaway is an artist of uncompromising vision. With each of the four albums she has released, Hathaway has displayed musical growth and a versatile voice. A 1994 Berklee graduate and daughter of soul great Donny Hathaway, she will perform with students and other alumni in the April 2009 Singers Showcase 25th anniversary concert. The song, "Breathe," from her 2008 release, Self Portrait, is a document of an artist at the top of her game.

Paula Cole, El Greco

Sun, 01 Mar 2009 00:00:37 -0500

After graduating from Berklee in the early 1990s, Paula Cole quickly established herself as a major label artist with songwriting skills as powerful as her vocal talents. In recent years, she has frequently returned to her alma mater to give clinics and concerts, including a March 2009 show paying tribute to the Music of Burt Bacharach. "El Greco" is a song from her most recent album, Courage.

Model Cars, Don’t Go Run Away

Sun, 01 Feb 2009 00:00:53 -0500

Model Cars is a Berklee student band formed by pianist/violinist Claudio Olachea, who began his studies at the college in 2006. Olachea was searching for an intelligent indie rock sound with strong grooves, melodies, and vocal harmonies. His quest led him to his three talented bandmates: guitarist Matt Berger, bassist Mike day, and drummer Kevin Lynch. “Don’t Go Run Away” is one of two tracks Model Cars recorded for Berklee’s student-run label, Heavy Rotation Records.

Hiromi's Sonicbloom, XYG

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 12:00:04 -0500

Hiromi's Sonicbloom is a four-member group whose collaborative improvisations defy bounds and categories. The group is led by Japanese pianist and keyboardist Hiromi, who graduated from Berklee in 2003. Hiromi's Sonicbloom also features guitarist David Fiuczynski, a member of the Berklee faculty; and an alumni rhythm section of bassist Tony Grey and drummer Martin Valihora. "XYG" is a Hiromi original that fuses high-energy jazz with elements of heavy metal. It's a track from the group's latest release, Beyond Standard, on the Telarc label.

Leo Blanco, Serendipity

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 12:00:02 -0400

Venezuelan pianist and composer Leo Blanco blends his country's sound—a mixture of African and Spanish musical traditions—with years of experience and training as a jazz and classical musician. He is also a Berklee alumnus and faculty member. "Serendipity" is from his new CD, Africa Latina, on the Ayva Music label. The disc features a host of talented players, including guitarist Lionel Loueke, Antonio Sanchez, and Donny McCaslin.

Shea Rose's, Free Love

Wed, 01 Oct 2008 12:00:51 -0400

Berklee student Shea Rose has been turning heads and ears with a fusion of rock, soul, and folk. She also has an armful of original songs that reveal an expansive emotional range while highlighting her chops as both a vocalist and guitarist. Shea Rose's "Free Love" is one of the tunes on tap for her performance at Berklee's Women in Rock concert, where she'll open for such greats as Nona Hendryx and Meshell Ndgeocello.

Fernando Brandao, Samba pra Juju

Fri, 29 Aug 2008 15:25:41 -0400

Berklee faculty member, flutist, and composer Fernando Brandão's talent and versatility has taken him to stages and studios around the world. He's known equally well for his work in the classical, jazz, and Latin music worlds and has played with artists such as Luciana Souza, Bill Pierce, Teresa Inês, and George Garzone. "Samba Pra JuJu" is the title track of his latest CD.

Kendrick Oliver and the New Life Jazz Orchestra, Wade in the Water

Thu, 31 Jul 2008 10:22:33 -0400

Berklee alumnus Kendrick Oliver and his 19-piece New Life Jazz Orchestra has been described by Jazz Times magazine as "inventive, vital, and fresh." The group plays Count Basie-style swing with foot-stomping arrangements, high-octane rhythms, and an unrestrained brass section. Their take on "Wade in the Water" features Christian McBride on bass.

The Berklee Latin Jazz All-Stars, Centro Havana

Mon, 30 Jun 2008 10:22:22 -0400

The Berklee Latin Jazz All-Stars are winners of the 2008 Downbeat Student Music Award for Best Jazz Band. Sounds of Berklee for July 2008 features the six-piece group performing “Centro Havana,” a composition by Cuban flutist Oriente Lopez.

Zili Misik, Praia

Thu, 29 May 2008 10:22:53 -0400

Zili Misik is an all-woman band whose repertoire ranges from Haitian to blues to Afro-Cuban music and beyond. Most of the group's eight members are Berklee students or alumni. In this month's podcast, you'll hear "Praia," a song from the group's debut disc, New World Soul.

Jennifer "Nesi" Chianesi, Shake Up

Mon, 05 May 2008 14:27:19 +0000

Nesi, an 18-year-old rapper from Cranston, Rhode Island, is featured on this month's Sounds of Berklee. Her song, "Shake Up," made her a grand prize winner in Berklee and Essence magazine's Hip-Hop Songwriting Contest. The contest winners were selected by a panel that included hip-hop celebrity judges Yo-Yo, Pete Rock, and Roxanne Shante.

Annie Lynch and The Beekeepers, Dirty Laundry

Mon, 31 Mar 2008 16:33:07 +0000

This month's Sounds of Berklee track features the acoustic alternative folk music of student group Annie Lynch and the Beekeepers. "Dirty Laundry" is an excellent example of the band's unusual arrangements, which feature upright bass, cello, mandolin, banjo, accordion, and the occasional saw solo.

SFJAZZ Collective, Lion's Gate

Tue, 26 Feb 2008 15:28:43 -0500

This month Sounds of Berklee brings you SFJAZZ Collective, performing "Lion's Gate," written by the group's pianist Renee Rosnes. SFJAZZ Collective is an all-star ensemble featuring some of the jazz world's finest performers and composers. The group is playing in March as part of the Sovereign Bank Music Series at Berklee.

The Peasantry, Homie

Wed, 30 Jan 2008 15:29:17 -0500

Listen to "Homie," a song by a great student band—the Peasantry—in this month's podcast. The Peasantry is one of several student groups featured on the new disc from student-run Heavy Rotation Records and performing in the label's CD release concert this month.

Overjoyed, Hark! The Herald Angels Sing

Mon, 03 Dec 2007 20:58:32 +0000

This month's featured song, "Hark! The Herald Angels Sing," featuring student vocalist Grace Taylor, is from Universidad Navideña, a collection of traditional Christmas songs and carols performed by collegiate jazz and choral ensembles. The album—an eclectic mix of genres such as jazz, salsa, gospel, opera, and pop—will complement any holiday cocktail party.

Rosa Passos, Obi

Thu, 01 Nov 2007 14:38:40 +0000

Fans all over the world know Rosa Passos to be loyal to her Afro-Brazilian culture, maintaining the traditional, soulful cool of bossa nova without commercial compromise. Listen to her sing "Obi," a Djavan song she'll sing with Berklee students and faculty in the November kickoff of this year's Sovereign Bank Music Series at Berklee.

A Bite of BeanTown with Conrad Herwig, Seven Steps to Heaven

Mon, 24 Sep 2007 16:24:36 +0000

Get a taste of the BeanTown Jazz Festival. Conrad Herwig is just one of the many artists performing at the free outdoor concert September 29. Herwig's "Seven Steps to Heaven " is from his collection of Latin jazz arrangements of classic Miles Davis compositions, Sketches of Spain Y Mas.

Eleonara Bianchini and Marcelo Woloski, Mundo Por Conocer

Mon, 20 Aug 2007 18:12:47 +0000

This month we feature a composition by student percussionist Marcelo Woloski, who wrote and recorded "Mundo Por Conocer" for The New Old School, the fourth release from Berklee's student-run jazz label, Jazz Revelation Records. "Mundo Por Conocer" features student vocalist Eleonora Bianchini.

Madi Diaz, Canvas

Thu, 19 Jul 2007 13:38:58 +0000

You could make a case that she's already ahead of Bob Dylan. After all, the iconic songwriter was 22 years old when he played the Newport Folk Festival for the first time in 1963. Fifth-semester student Madi Diaz, who will open for Linda Ronstadt at this year's festival in early August, is only 21.