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Jazz CD of the Month: Etienne Charles / Creole Soul /Independent Release

Etienne Charles is a trumpeter from Trinidad whose three previous albums have featured calypso music as interpreted through an engaging post-bop focus. Charles continues to grow as an artist as evidenced on his latest, Creole Soul.  His latest recording reflects his interest in Carribean music and the music of New Orleans. Charles' band includes tenor saxophonist Jacques Schwarz-Bart, alto saxophonist Brian Hogans, pianist Kris Bowers (who also plays Fender  Rhodes), bassist Ben Williams, and drummer Obed Calvaire, with guests including guitarist Alex Wintz, percussionist/vocalists Daniel Sadownick and D'Achee, and voodoo priest Erol Josué, who offers a chanted benediction to kick things off on the first number, the title track. Standout numbers include Bob Marley's "Turn Your Lights Down Low" , Bo Diddley's "You Don't Love Me", and an exceptional reading of Thelonious Monk's "Green Chimneys". "Midnight"  is where calypso rhythms and jazz syncopation mix with Haitian dance grooves. The compelling performance of the band throughout the session leaves no doubt as to the sincerity of the players and their leader. For more information, you may visit etiennecharles.com.

Chris Cooke has been a voice on public radio in Omaha since 1989. Working at KVNO-FM during college, Cooke hosted a weekend progressive jazz show on the station in addition to working as an on-air announcer. In November 1992, Cooke signed on at KIOS-FM and has been there ever since. He has hosted the Tuesday and Thursday editions of Jazz in the Afternoon since 1996 and has hosted Last Call since that year. A long time fan of jazz music, Cooke enjoys talking with the musicians who make jazz music and presenting those conversations with listeners. When not hosting or listening to jazz, on record or in person, Cooke maintains a busy schedule as a self-employed web design consultant.
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