‘in spin’ pt I | andy caldwell

“Warrior, show me the way…
show me how you got to be so strong…”

If you’ve been around me for the past while, you’d know I’m absolutely smitten with the song ‘Warrior’ by Andy Caldwell, with Lisa Shaw. It’s a beautiful song on so many levels. Musically, there’s an incredible balance between the edgy and melodic, and lyrically I believe it symbolizes what we all should be.

Surprisingly when I spoke to Caldwell, I learned that this too was a result of tragic circumstance, and is one that also speaks to him on many levels. Dark and mysterious, it offers an open-ended explanation about life – as do most of his songs.

But I can’t honestly admit to fully understanding Caldwell’s work. I almost wanted him to “show me the way,” and expand on all the mini-truths he was alluding to. But perhaps that was the flaw in my method. Most of his songs, and especially those on Universal Truth, tend to fall to extremes and trying to demystify and abstract meaning, well, sometimes one just needs to leave ones songs alone. The song is the meaning.

His new album, to be released either in Fall 2008 or Spring 2009 will be an expansion of the vibe of ‘Warrior,’ with the same sensibility to the song-writing.

I don’t know what you’re doing, but whatever it is, Andy, it’s working.

Visit: www.myspace.com/djandycaldwell

charlene smith | a conversation…

Introducing Charlene Smith…

Staffeen Thompson: What made you leave the music scene?
Charlene Smith: I quietly exited the music scene to allow myself to grow in all the ways I truly needed to. As it was all happening to me, I realized you have to have a pretty big ego to want to achieve the greatness that can come with being an artist. I was more of a people person then, easily side-tracked and more inquisitive of the inner workings of the business. You need a certain amount of detachment for this but at the same time be totally focussed and driven regarding your craft. It was hard to find the balance then. Judging by the way I feel now, it’s very difficult to imagine all that stuff happened to me. I’m so different now, comical in fact about it all. After all is said and done though, I still love music. I’ve always loved creating it. Truly loved being part of that process. That hasn’t diminished which is how I know now I’ve got to continue - no matter where it leads - because it is not a mission anymore. It is to enjoy the journey and learn a little bit more about myself and I’m ready this time for just about anything. To be truthful, and a tad metaphysical, music is still calling me and I feel as though to not answer would be the wrong thing. So we’ll see. We shall definitely see.

ST: What projects have you been working on in the past while?
CS: Musically, I’ve been focusing on penning some real uplifting anthems. I’ve never been a trend-setter but I know what I like to hear and it’s strangely missing from today’s airways. I’m laying low, so to speak, and trying not to be too influenced by what others are doing at this stage. I took some much needed time to regroup but my dance card is starting to fill up again. Maybe I should keep the individuals under wraps for now but know this - it’ll be worthwhile when it all comes together.

ST: Have you made songs that hasn’t been recorded or published?
CS: I’ve got a tonne of music that hasn’t been put out there yet and is still unpublished. You always have those songs that just seem better off being kept private but then the day comes that you feel ready to release it both figuratively and artistically. I’m ready to let go of some of that precious material. I’m now hoping it will heal others like it healed me.

ST: Can you describe your new sound?
CS: I always been a huge fan of Earth, Wind & Fire. I love the big, bright yet groovy stuff they did way back in the day. My stuff? Well, it’s like a cross between that and Maxwell with the ultimate female touch and delivery.

ST: Who are you working with on this record?
CS: I’m working my brothers of course, the Boomtang Boys and also a guy I’ve known forever named Marvin Prince. He was one of the key collaborators behind Snow’s first record and he’s a genius. I like to work with friends. I think the most honest material comes out of those exchanges.

ST: In future, who would you like to collaborate with?
CS: I’d love to work with Maxwell, Erykah Badu and my girl Michie One out of England to name a few. I’ve got a lot of friends in the biz. Some have achieved substantial credibility while most have not. I’d like to work with the “have nots” if you will. They also always come with a fresh energy and hunger that I find exhilarating as well as inspiring.

ST: How will this album be promoted?
CS: This record is going to have full backing with all the bells and whistles. That’s not necessary the best thing but then again, there’s no magic formula in this biz. You go with what is working and sort of hope for the best.

ST: After your journey, how do you maintain balance in the industry?
CS: Balance comes so easy now because the industry doesn’t have a hold on me. I no longer n-e-e-d to do this - I want to. And now it’s like the proverbial break up scenario in relationships. There can only be bitterness if you still wish to be with that person. If your over your past and whatever may have happened to you, you truly look at the experience as a whole as merely beneficial on move on to a better scenario. Balance comes out of that realization and really becomes effortless at that point. You get to contribute what you can when you can and if it still feels good - you found your balance.

ST: What’s your favourite song?
CS: One song that jumps out is Gap Band’s “Yearning for your love”. I adore Charlie Wilson. It’s everything a great song should be - dynamic, heartfelt, easy to identify with and uplifting all at once.

ST: What’s in your iPod now?
CS: I listen to a lot of old groups. I’m playing some Rick James and The Spinners right now if you can believe that!

ST: Will you be planning a tour, and will you make a stop in T.O?
CS: Touring is fantastic but incredibly grueling. I’m still 100% up for it so if one comes together - you can bet Canada will be first on the docket.

ST: What are you looking forward to the most?
CS: I’m most looking forward to the reactions to the new material. You put music out to the masses for that - the reaction. With me, good or bad makes me feel like I’ve achieved something - so it’s really all good. But truly, I look forward most to being right about which songs will “connect” the best with the fans.

ST: Thank you for speaking with me…
CS: Thank you!

Visit Charlene’s Myspace:
www.myspace.com/charlenesmith77

lisa shaw | a conversation…

LOUD & CLEAR

“Pulling my love around, my mind says aloud…
but loud & clear’s unheard, guilty pleasures you’d say…”

This wouldn’t be a ‘soulful series’ without the presence of Lisa Shaw. Hers is the voice that revives the clubs, yet softens the scene. Her music, timeless. Her voice, haunting. Her song ‘Matter of Time’ still reveals nuances to me each time I listen to it, and continues to inspire me. Her unique sound draws from diverse range of styles, from Depeche Mode to Prince, but is truly unmistakable and becoming more and more refined. Her repertoire of songs is dynamic and fluid, passionate and introspective.

The last time I interviewed Shaw was after the release of her debut album Cherry, in 2005. Since then she’s been on tour for the album, on tour with Miguel Migs for his album Those Things, and is featured on Andy Caldwell’s album Universal Truth. Originally from Toronto, Shaw’s talent has graced us for years but like many things great, they are gradually recognized by the masses. I had a few simple ‘I wonder…’ questions for Shaw and was able to catch up with her amidst her hectic schedule.

Introducing Lisa Shaw…

Staffeen Thompson: How has the success of your album ‘Cherry’, and touring for yours and Miguel Migs’ album ‘Those Things’, inspired your work?
Lisa Shaw: The response to both pieces of work has been really wonderful. It’s inspiring enough to go back into the studio and write more.

ST: You’ve collaborated with many creative DJ/producers, and are featured on many of their albums, how does the creative process work? Do you specify the tracks or do you both ‘go with the flow’?
LS: In most cases the producer will send me a track (or tracks), and I’ll listen and vibe them out. I usually can hear an idea/melody or concept right away and then we take it from there. I have a writing partner Dave Warrin who is the producer of my next album. We also write together for other producer albums.

ST: Which DJ/producers would you still like to work with?
LS: There are a few producers who I would love to work with. I really like LCD Sound System. I’ve been a fan of theirs for a while and love their new album.

ST: I recall a couple of years ago you mentioned Eric Stamile’s CD, and his band 5RW. I have 3 of his tracks, remixes including Aya’s, Gaelle’s and yours, are you planning to work with him also?
LS: He’s working on it and YES! I am going to work with him. Actually trying to do a track with him for my next album and talking about doing a whole project with him. I think he is so talented!

ST: The music landscape seems to be constantly changing, and it seems as though musicians/singers are almost required to adapt to new technology/promotional tools, do you think you’ve adapted well?
LS: It’s not so much adapting for me as keeping up with it. With Myspace which has basically taken the place of my website, I can spend hours on the computer answering emails, updating pics and music. If I miss a week or two it’s hard to catch up!

ST: Also, with technology often influencing how Artists make music, have you found it has changed your creative process?
LS: No, actually it’s become easier to get my musical ideas down. I’ve always been a little bit of tech nerd and had my own setup at home. There are a few programs out there that are user-friendly like Protools LE. I can get my ideas down while I’m traveling which is great!!

ST: How do you feel about the current state of the music industry?
LS: It’s pretty bad right now! It’s nothing like it used to be, that’s for sure. There are so many distribution companies, labels and record stores closing that it makes it hard for not only the Indy label, but the majors too. The closing of Tower Records was a real loss for us because that was our biggest selling market. Rumor has it that the Virgin Mega store in union square is closing too. Everything is being sold on the now and there aren’t enough hard copy sales. I’m a big supporter of owning the hard copy of the CD. Besides the novelty of reading the liner notes and lyrics, the music sounds much better than the crappy Mp4’s that it’s converted too. Vinyl sounds the best really and lasts forever.

ST: Do you enjoy performing/touring in Canada and abroad, and how is it different from the U.S?
LS: I love playing in Canada! Besides playing in my hometown of Toronto, Vancouver is one of my favorites! I’m there about 2 to 3 times a year. There’s big support there for this style of music. It’s not that different from playing in the US. The only difference is that I am Canadian and it feels really good playing for my peeps.

ST: What’s the one thing you’d like to change about the way music is made, received and promoted?
LS: I wish people demanded and supported buying music from music stores. If they only really listened to the difference in quality of what they download, they would be amazed!!

ST: What project(s) are you currently working on, are you able to share?
LS: I am just finishing up my next album that which is to be released around May on Salted Records. I have some new singles coming out as well! One is called “All Night High” and the other is called “Here I Am” with Fred Everything on Om Records.

ST: How have you “mastered your craft” as a singer?
LS: Not as disciplined as I should be really, but we all tend to be a little hard on ourselves. I think as I’ve matured, so has my voice. I’ve become more comfortable with myself, and what my voice can do. I’ve taught myself how to be free and to let my voice go especially live. You’d be surprised what happens when you focus and let it go - and I mean that with anything not just singing.

ST: Are you planning any shows for Toronto?
LS: As for shows, I have no plans for Toronto yet but we’re working on it.

ST: What’s in your ipod now?
LS: I actually lost my iPod and just replaced it with the iPhone. I haven’t put anything on it except music from my upcoming album.

ST: I love the line, “guilty pleasures, you’d say…” from ‘Matter of Time’. What is your favourite guilty pleasure?
LS: Hmm!! Do I dare say? There’s a few actually, but let me be conservative and say I am a shoe H&*^%r!!

ST: Thank you so much for speaking with me…
LS: You’re welcome!

While continuing to sing with Miguel Migs, Shaw promises more singles and another album scheduled for release in May 2008. She’s also started a band called ‘Pedal Pusher’, and are planning a Canadian tour this year sometime.

Visit: www.myspace.com/lisashaw
and www.myspace.com/petalpushermusic

joi cardwell | a conversation…

THE JOY OF JOI

“Life is imperfect, imperfect(is perfect)…”

Every so often I’m moved by a voice and impassioned by a song – and then I feel the need to share it with the world. “Imperfect”, by Joi Cardwell. It definitely has an infectious beat, but if you listen to it closely, it has incredibly intense nuances, that are haunting and infectious. The underlying message is to hold on to your faith and trust in life, amidst life’s adversities – a theme that can be found in many of Joi’s songs.

I wanted to know what her inspiration was for the song, and after communicating with Joi, learned that this song was written on the day her grandmother passed away, and suddenly it all made sense. I felt so awful for having chosen such an emotional song, but realized that it’s always the most powerful songs that are borne from a place of pain, sadness or suffering. She assured me, “She was blessed with 94 great years. And I with all her love and wisdom.”

After obtaining two degrees from University, Joi started her recording career at Arista Records in a girl group called ‘The Promise’ and then began her career producing captivating singles – such as “Love and Devotion”, “Trouble”, “Jump for Joi” and “Soul to Bare”. Joi’s mellow and sensual vocals, coupled with her songwriting have influenced many. Her repertoire includes the albums, ‘The World is Full of Trouble’ from 1995; and ‘Joi Cardwell’ from 1997, and her collaborations with a variety of artists, such as Kashif, LL Cool J, Paula Abdul, Ice T, and Denise Rich as both writer and producer.

Joi’s most recent album ‘The Plain Jane Project’ is available for full listening on her website, and her catalog is available on all major digital sites including itunes.

Below is my interview with Joi Cardwell, where she discusses her inspiration, her music, the industry, and more…

Introducing Joi Cardwell…



Staffeen Thompson: Who else was influential in making “Imperfect” come to life?
Joi Cardwell: Imperfect was a song I wrote the day my grandma passed. The music was actually sent to me weeks prior and was an entirely different song. But in the end it was the perfect song for the track. It was produced by Marlon D.

ST: Did you study music in school? What was your first inspirational ‘push’ into the business?
JC: I didn’t study music in school, more like music business with a semester of vocal training while in college. I’ve always worked in the biz so I guess I was more like a musical apprentice in the real world.

ST: How do you nurture your talent, and does it ever dictate the types of songs you want to create?
JC: I try to go with what moves me both musically and what I can do well. I realize that I can’t sing with a really big voice – even though my inner one tells me I can. LOL. So I try to work within what my abilities are and do the best I can to push my limits and still be appealing to my audience. As far as nurturing my talent – mostly I maintain my voice through a lot of rest - healthy living and – actually not singing too much.

ST: How have you ‘mastered your craft’?
JC: I think I am pretty good at what I do. Some would say I have. I never really think about things as being complete—they are what they are until something takes you to another level.

ST: I’ve read that you’ve written a book, I’m curious to know what its success has meant for you?
JC: I wrote a lil handbook on the ins and outs of the music business and actually have just finished another called ”How To Use What You Got To Get What You Want” that taps into people’s underlying abilities and using them to achieve real goals in life. Its success has mostly been in me spreading the word to those who seek information particularly at schools where I have lectured on the topic - My alma mater New York University and also Columbia University in NY.

ST: The music industry: stagnant or evolving?
JC: The music industry is evolving. Well actually I am involved in a new music software company called imediastreams which is going to help the industry- particularly for independents. We will be able to allow content providers know basically who and where music is being played online (without specific names) and allow musicians to better target their audience, and eventually have better accounting as far as performance and mechanical royalties. (That’s how we get paid).

ST: What would you be doing if you weren’t Joi Cardwell the singer?
JC: Well I am always doing lots of things beyond being a singer- I run a record company – and a publishing company. I do some work in the stock market and I dabble in other ventures.

ST: What’s the Joi Cardwell ‘signature’ sound?
JC: I don’t really know – but some have said sensual melodic and smooth.

ST: What’s the biggest misconception about your music?
JC: That I can only sing at 125-137 BPM (beats per minute)

ST: What’ve been your happiest moments?
JC: I am most happy when I am around those I love.

ST: What’s your philosophy surrounding nurturing success?
JC: Success requires hard work. And it never lasts long. You have got to keep it moving.

ST: What’s your favourite song?
JC: “What’s going on” – Marvin Gaye

ST: Where do you find your inspiration?
JC: Well I am inspired by life itself, natural surroundings, Love, and common experiences that we all go through. I am an observer and storyteller.

ST: What’s in your ipod now?
JC: Just got a new one, so believe it or not, ‘Christmas in the House’ compilation on Kingstreet, and some free downloads form a Starbucks promotion last month. Sad but I am so busy I have no time to load my ipod just yet.

ST: Can you describe a Joi Cardwell fan?
JC: International, mostly men, and those who love music that says something.

ST: What can we expect next from Joi?
JC: Many new singles in dance - a new full-length project later this year tentatively called “Wanderlust” that will include my softer gentler side as well. And lots of news about my new venture imusic – from imediastreams.com this spring. I really believe it will be the first step in creating a new paradigm of getting our music accounted for and respected for the monetary and cultural contributor it really is.

ST: Have you ever been to Toronto to perform? Would you ever come up?
JC: I have been there and of course if I am asked again I would return.

ST: Thanks Joi, for speaking with me…
JC: Thank you for your support!

For more information on Joi visit:
website: www.joicardwell.com
myspace: www.myspace.com/joicardwell

sophie milman | happiness in the making

Published Winter 2007.

Toronto’s Jazz diva Sophie Milman, experiences immense success with her sophomore album, Make Someone Happy. The album has an exquisite repertoire of songs and maintains her signature diverse musical style— which continues to define her within Toronto’s Jazz scene, as well as internationally.

With a substantial amount of critical acclaim of her debut album, Sophie Milman, she has remained consistent in her musical expression. Make Someone Happy is a light and energetic album, coupled with thought-provoking songs. She has carefully selected songs that accurately represent her current stage of life both professionally and personally, songs with raw sentiment and haunting melodies.

“The albums are worlds apart. The first album was more of an introduction to Sophie Milman— the girl with the nice voice; whereas, this album is much more personal and introspective, with songs that are deeper and focus on story-telling.” Milman says, “With this new record, I was able to set aside the expectations of others and clearly articulate what I was feeling.”

The songs invariably describe Milman’s life story, but also resonate with her audience on a humanistic level as they deal with life changes and romantic relationships. “They’re about my life and experiences, about the emotional turbulence of feeling like an outsider, and about falling in love, and the joys and demons that accompanies. It works best when you sing what you know.” She says.

Milman’s recognition and appeal as an emerging Jazz talent originates from her acute musical sensibility, and her ability to successfully experiment with various genres within the Jazz form. She says, “Jazz is so broad — I like to be able to play around with style, because it breaks the routine. And I feel like I have the benefit of youth, to not be locked into one thing.”

Milman favourably credits her team of writers and musicians who are an integral part to the formation and composition of the songs, “Their pens are an extension of my heart.” She says. “They help me to create varied songs that I can relate to. Songs with layered percussion and that textured sound.”

Up-tempo adaptations of songs like, “Undun”, by The Guess Who, and “Rocket Love”, by Stevie Wonder, are excellent examples of contemporary Jazz songs Milman sings. Also included are renditions of the classics “Fever” and “(It’s Not Easy) Bein’ Green”, which complement the eclectic arrangement. She says, “In choosing the songs for the record, I consider the lyrics and melody first, then I make each song my own, where each song tells its own unique story.”

Milman’s objective as an artist is to maintain credibility and longevity, and to grow through her music with grace. With a healthy self-perception she acknowledges that she will improve as an artist, and will evolve musically with each album. This album can be classified as a subtle re-introduction for Milman— who has remained unwavering in her style, and who strives to enlighten us with her heart and voice, one song at a time.

jugular | heart.soul.voice

Published Fall 2006 & Fall 2007.

A sunny afternoon brought the artist Jugular and myself to a café, ruminating over various aspects of his debut CD Welcome to the Universe, including its inevitability. Having had the privilege of hearing his beat-boxing performances years earlier, I can isolate and fully appreciate the evolution of talent that he showcases with this album. The beauty is his ability to apply the art form of beat-boxing into melodic song-form, and is what makes this album unique and well beyond its time. My interpretation of this project is a clear reflection of the artist I know, unmistakably multi-dimensional and distinctly self-disciplined. Considering that every aspect of this album was conceived of, produced and delivered by the Artist himself, one will only obtain a glimpse of the story he tries to reveal.

For Jugular, the path to his success was a long and arduous one. From its inception, the musical planes his journey takes sees him resolving issues with his own identity, while connecting the elements and varying degrees of his own ideas. Wanting his music to resonate with others demanded that he defeat his own personal obstacles musically, and deal with the ultimate notion of success. Overcoming these fears through his art was definitely an emotional process, but a necessary one — one which often, “brings you closer to the person you want to be”.

Which is exactly what I believe the album does.

It enlightens us to the Artist we want to know. Because what this emotional purging produced are 16 songs of raw emotion and loving sentiment. Hard work, focus and dedication yielded: a truthful & honest seduction album. From up-tempo disco tracks, to Jazz tracks with a latin undertone, to those with a lingering R&B/Soul vibe, their composition is phenomenal. Then there are those that I refer to as minimalist songs — which convey an overwhelming message, in a drastically simplistic and timeless way.

I believe we are born with a larger mission to fulfill and a talent to encourage, and it’s with our predisposition that we hope for its longevity. And so, contemplating the search for beauty in life, that is, discovering our own truths is what pilots us as human beings— as it is definitely what fuels Jugular as a musician and singer. With this constant mode of unrest and strive for longevity, he is working on a possible re-release of Welcome to the Universe in the near future, and initiating production for his second album.

For more information visit:
www.myspace.com/jugularmusic
www.jugularmusic.com

urbanology | the magazine

Published Spring 2006.

I recently spent some time with the founders of Urbanology Magazine, Priya Ramanujam and Adrian McKenzie. Following is my profile on these two dynamic young entrepreneurs:

It is always inspiring to find young entrepreneurs who have stimulating ideas, and who also have the motivation, business savvy and talent to actualize them. And what’s great about the creators of Urbanology Magazine is that the momentum has just begun. Started in 2004, and having already received one Canadian Urban Music Award nomination in 2005, Priya Ramanujam and Adrian McKenzie have left a positive impression with their Urban Culture & Lifestyle magazine. But not surprisingly, Urbanology has become a refreshing new vehicle representing urban culture. Both Priya and Adrian have stated that they started this venture with a higher vision of what they believe Canadian urban culture represents, providing a holistic outlook on what they feel is important, and dismantling common stereotypes our society seems to consistently reinforce. Featuring a wide range of artists from both Canada and the US, their unique approach to various topics highlights the intricacies in which they know their readers are interested in, thus providing a necessary alternative.

And now, delivering a broad scope of Canadian urban culture to as many readers as possible, it is no surprise that they would want to circulate Urbanology to viable markets outside of Canada - ‘bridging the gap between countries’, including the US and Europe, and eventually around the world. And shouldn’t the rest of the world to be eager to learn about our urban culture, especially from a Canadian perspective? With that being said, their focus would most likely include an evolved sense of style, an examination of fresh material that will prompt a current edge against their competitors, relevant material for their target audiences, and continuous creative benchmarks to bring each issue to another level. And though they disprove reservations surrounding their young ages, it is evident they have demonstrated well above and beyond that they can not only maintain the industry standard, but carve out their own distinct niche successfully. It would appear that their approach to journalism aims to set them apart from other music magazines, as they strive to change the perception of urban culture one issue at a time.

What will follow seems to be a force I suspect will evolve how music and lifestyle magazines relate to and communicate with their audiences. You can definitely look forward to: a re-sculpted conversation between art & content in print media - that is sure to raise eyebrows; and showcased magazines whose readers demand a stronger representation of urban culture. It is definitely the start of great change - something that will manifest in the years to come.

eric roberson | music anthropology

Published by Soul on Ice Spring 2006.

He is definitely a Musician’s Artist.

A crafter of stories. Eric Roberson’s creative translation of raw emotion makes him one of today’s most prolific singer-songwriters. An inspiration: joyous spirit and unrelenting music genius. He holds a timeless simplicity that resonates with his audience and his musical peers. His approach to a Musician’s Art is through observation. Combing through life’s pleasures & pain, turmoil & release, his vehicle allows each song to just “happen”, pushing the envelope. By these ideals, he stands as a contemporary “musical anthropologist”.

He is an Artist for himself but an Artist for others. He lends his talent to other Musicians & Artists, sharing personal songs, sharing his craft, and for years has been the silent partner. His philosophy stands, there is always a to-do list, always a song to be written, a song to be channeled, a market to be broken - an obstacle to be overcome. Constantly evolving, Roberson strives to fit the pieces together in his mind, and for his love of his Art.

For more information visit: www.ericrobersonmusic.com.

jeff hendrick | soul seduction

Published Spring 2006.

“He has a keen understanding of the Canadian music industry and knows exactly where he fits, and doesn’t waste time trying to be something he’s not. He focuses his energy on doing what he does best - making quality music to keep you moving on the dance-floor!” — Simon Fisher, Soul on Ice

If there is an Art to being an Artist in today’s culture, it would call for a certain mentality needed to sustain a level of excellence in one’s craft. In conversing with recording artist Jeff Hendrick, on his life, achievements and musical career, one could definitely detect that artistry. The candor in his story conveys an unvarying dedication to his music and sheer persistence in his character – one that illustrates his strong work ethic and sincere humility.

Since the release of his debut CD Bout Time in 2002, Jeff has acknowledged a musical evolution with his songwriting and the production process, one which has propelled him to his niche. Though remaining in the realm of Soul and R&B, he has creatively tapped into elements of Jazz – consistently refining his musical style. In his newly released album Soul Celebration, he revisits a unique musical sensibility that has been a prominent thread in his sound – one that is delightfully refreshing. This musical awareness emerges in the form of rich instrumentality - something that is present in all of his work and yields smooth and vibrantly engaging songs.

A lifetime as a musician and a destined performer, Jeff’s Artistry has risen so naturally has also translated well into his performances. His debut album saw him perform in Canada and subsequently took him abroad touring in the US and Europe. At its conclusion and after sufficient downtime, Jeff started developing new material for Soul Celebration – a process he described as, “an engagement of the senses”. This album could also be deemed a ’soul seduction’ with his smooth voice and chilled-out beat, as he also manages to lightly infuse elements of Jazz, Latin and Pop, which can be quite a challenge. This timeless fusion brings to mind other producers, who have successfully mastered the Art of creating distinct moods - developing an atmospheric cocktail.

His inspiring musical career speaks of longevity and acclaim - and from here on it can only amplify. Presently, he is finishing up an all-instrumental album and is preparing a third vocal record scheduled for release in the Fall of 2006 - one which I envision to be a colourful continuation of his present work. With a mission to inspire a positive outlook and an enduring sense of hope in his audience, it only makes sense that his own success would blossom like it has.

To learn more about Jeff Hendrick visit:
http://www.jeffhendrick.com
http://ww.myspace.com/jeffhendrick
http://cdbaby.com/cd/jeffhendrick
http://www.soulonice.net/Jeff_Hendrick_Interview.mp3

lisa shaw | the cherry on top

Published by Soul on Ice Spring 2006.

Hers is one of the most soulful voices in music today. For over a decade Lisa Shaw has been producing brilliant music, while still maintaining a subtle profile among the masses. She has gracefully assumed the role as ‘House Diva’, moving audiences in nightclubs worldwide, with a body of songs that are rare as they are diverse. Working alongside some of the most poignant producers and mixers, like Jay Denes (Blue Six), Dave Warrin, Eric Stamile (Speakeasy) and Miguel Migs, her team that has established a continental niche for which she is most recognizable.

Shaw’s astounding portfolio of songs ranges, from pure jazz-inspired melodies to hot dance tracks. Her unmistakable sound is what continues to inspire producers to work with her – as her style is intense and versatile. But it was ‘Invisible Airline’ by Q-BAM (Q-Burns Abstract Message), where I was introduced to Shaw’s talent as a songwriter as well as an amazing vocalist. The song “Innocent”, exposed her musical range and convinced me that there was indeed another scope of music being cultivated – a more eclectic, and slightly more esoteric sound - not a typical electronic/dance album. She has since received a Canadian Urban Music Award in 2003, for Best Electronic Recording for ‘Let it Ride’, and has been in constant creative mode for her debut album ‘Cherry’.

Cherry was released in October 2005, and is in my opinion long overdue. This is Shaw at her best - reinforcing her signature style of smooth and enchanting vocals apparent in her first release “Always”, and others like “Matter of Time” and “When I” which are hauntingly personal. Shaw’s vocals both compel and seduce: whether it’s groovy and upbeat or a mellow mood-setter – her emotional honesty will absorb you, take you for a brief trip, and then leave you lingering long after the song has ended. It is safe to say, that with such a varied composition of songs - this album will not disappoint.

Learn more about Lisa Shaw at www.lisashaw.net.