Balancing a career in jazz radio and teaching chemistry at San José State University, Dr. Brad Stone, AKA the Jazz Doctor, is a modern-day Renaissance man. Every Thursday on SoulandJazz.com, Dr. Stone debuts a collection of progressive new jazz recordings as part of his Creative Source broadcast. His musical knowledge covers 1960s jazz fusion and extends to the cutting edge of today’s music. For this year’s Summer Fest, the Jazz Doctor has prescribed five acts to look out for.
Sylvia Cuenca: “Every year you’ll find me camped out at the Heritage Bank Cafe Stritch Stage. Bay Area native and favorite Sylvia Cuenca plays with her Quartet on Saturday August 11.” The post-bop drum master will be joined by an innovative quartet, featuring the Bay Area’s own Paul Hanson playing bassoon and soprano sax. Though she is currently based in New York as a bandleader and first-call drummer, Cuenca always returns to pay tribute to her hometown of San José.
Doug Beavers: “Doug Beavers brings his Titanes de Trombón: Tribute to Cheo Feliciano to the Salsa Stage on Saturday. If you’ve never experienced the Salsa Stage before, please do so this year! The music is fantastic, you’ll see people dancing salsa in the street (those who really know how to do it – I just fake it!), and Doug is sure to bring a top notch band!”
Jeff Denson: Outside My Window: “Bassist and Vocalist Jeff Denson is sure to play some strikingly original music, as well as his own unique vocal interpretations to songs by several notable artists. Highly recommended. On the Adobe Silicon Valley Stage on Saturday.” In addition to working with jazz greats Lee Konitz and Brian Blade, Denson has honed his own vocal skills. Make sure to catch his set on the Adobe Silicon Valley Stage on Saturday.
The 10th Annual Jazz Organ Fellowship event with Matthew Whitaker and Brian Charette: “Yeah, I’m biased (I serve on the JOF Board!). I love jazz organ and the Hammond B-3. We have the young phenom Matthew Whitaker, and the world-class Brian Charette on the same bill! And…one never knows who else might show up! Speaking of jazz organ, don’t miss the Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio earlier in the day. It’s going to be great fun, with some dirty, gritty B-3!!” Join the fun at the El Taurino stage on Saturday.
Eugenie Jones: “Please help me welcome to San Jose a wonderful vocalist from Seattle, Eugenie Jones.” Jones’s debut Black Lace Blue Tears was the first vocal album to be named Earshot Jazz Recording of the Year. The versatile vocalist can seamlessly transition from a tender ballad to a driving blues melody in the same set. Don’t miss her August 11 set on the Sushi Confidential Stage.