THIS IS ALWAYS :: Mary-Jo Casasanta, sensing the power of love in the lyrics, has made 'This Is Always' the centerpiece of her new CD. This is Always is infused with love songs, which are interpreted by her in a sensitive and singular 'jazz manner'. The love songs come from the works of the songwriters of popular music from the 20's through the 90's which is interpreted by musicians and singers alike, as jazz. The sensibilities of the lyric speak to us all as love. This same 'jazz manner' is artistically laid out by a group of musicians who present the melodies, harmonies and rhythms of this music with virtuosity.
Randy Porter's arrangements and his "inventive and sophisticated" voicings are a thrill to listen to. Randy has recorded and toured with the Charlie Parker disciple, Charles McPherson. He has also performed with the late Stephane Grappelli, the brilliant clarinetist, Eddie Daniels and the still blowing Clifford Jordan. Randy is currently adjunct faculty at Portland State University and Lewis and Clark College.
John Wiitala has played string bass in the San Francisco Bay area for the last 20 years. He has toured and recorded with many of the greats including Jessica Williams, Karrin Allyson, Weslia Whitfield, and Dick Titterington. John currently plays with saxophonist Hal Stein, and vocalists Madeline Eastman and Wesla Whitfield. John is a master bassist who has toured extensively in the US and abroad. He is on the faculty at the Jazzschool in Berkeley.
Todd Strait, the drummer, spent six years in Marian McPartland's Trio after completing terms with Tal Farrow and Woody Herman. His experience supporting vocalist Karrin Allyson has put him in good stead with Mary-Jo Casasanta.
Rob Davis plays tenor saxophone and bass clarinet. His forceful yet sensitive horn work resonates with passion and beautiful improvisations. Rob is a son of the Northwest and can be heard in many jazz venues around the Portland area.
David Evans plays tenor sax on the intro to Rockin' Chair only. He began playing jazz gigs in his native Alabama before he was old enough to drive to them. Eventually, he moved to New Orleans and played alongside many of the masters there.
Paul Mazzio plays trumpet and flugelhorn on several selections on This is Always. An active free-lance trumpet player, Paul is also a producer and very active in recording, show work, and jazz events in the Portland area.
Stan Bock on trombone gets the most play time on this CD. Stan assembles musicians and makes them play jazz in Portland. Look for his CDs and try to catch one of his gigs.
"When you let these recordings become a part of your regular listening program,
the bright moments created by these talented musicians and this passionate
vocalist will make your life more beautiful every time you listen." -- Les Scher
Jazz Radio Announcer 'Lester Leaps In'
KMUD FM, Redway, CA - www.kmud.org
Email Mary-Jo:
maryjo@jazz-ob1records.com