“Jeep Show” Author, Memphian Robert B. O’Connor to Speak at Morton Museum’s Lunch & Learn Series, February 27

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“It seems odd to call a World War II novel delightful but that’s exactly what you get with O’Connor’s mix of history and fiction, as battles rage on and enlisted men entertain the troops.”
– Kirkus (Starred Review)

COLLIERVILLE, TN – January 30, 2025 – Robert B. O’Connor, author of the compelling new historical fiction novel “Jeep Show – A Trouper at the Battle of the Bulge,” will be the featured speaker at the Morton Museum of Collierville History’s Lunch & Learn series on Tuesday, February 27, 2025, from 12:00 PM to 1:30 PM.

O’Connor will discuss his critically acclaimed, meticulously researched novel, which chronicles the remarkable journey of Jim Tanzer, a 30-year-old dance instructor who enlists in the Army during World War II despite having a draft deferment. The book offers a unique perspective on the war, focusing on enlisted entertainers in the little-known Morale Corps and their efforts to boost troop morale through entertainment in combat areas where the USO and the Red Cross could not go.

Event Details:
Date: Tuesday, February 27, 2025
Time: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Location: Morton Museum of Collierville History, 196 Main Street, Collierville, Tennessee 38017
Cost: Free to attend; participants are encouraged to bring their lunch

“Jeep Show” intertwines personal narratives with historical events, notably the Battle of the Bulge, providing readers with a fresh perspective on World War II. O’Connor’s presentation promises to shed light on the extensive morale-boosting efforts of the U.S. Army during the war and the author’s research process and inspiration for the novel.

The Morton Museum’s Lunch & Learn series allows attendees to explore diverse topics through engaging presentations while enjoying their lunch in the museum’s welcoming atmosphere. This event will appeal to history enthusiasts, WWII buffs, and fiction lovers alike.

Robert B. O’Connor, a Memphis-based author, has previously published the nonfiction book “Gumptionade.” His work often focuses on stories of determination triumphing over adversity in history and everyday life.

For more information about the event or to RSVP, please see https://www.colliervilletn.gov/Home/Components/Calendar/Event/1012/733?curm=2&cury=2025.

About the Morton Museum of Collierville History:
The Morton Museum of Collierville History is dedicated to preserving and sharing the rich heritage of Collierville and the surrounding area. The museum strives to engage the community in exploring local history and culture through its exhibits, educational programs, and events, such as the Lunch & Learn series.

Lean Enterprise Institute Announces Mark Reich as Keynote Speaker at Lean Summit 2025, March 5, 2025

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BOSTON, MA – February 5, 2025—The Lean Enterprise Institute (LEI) is pleased to announce that Mark Reich, Senior Coach and Chief Engineer of Strategy at LEI, will deliver a keynote speech and lead a panel discussion at the upcoming Lean Summit 2025. The event will take place March 5 and 6, 2025, at the Renaissance Atlanta Waverly Hotel & Convention Center, 2450 Galleria Parkway, Atlanta, Georgia, 30339, USA.

Reich will give the keynote address at 9:30 a.m., followed by a keynote panel on which he will host Marcia Brey, Vice President of Logistics at GE Appliances; Charles F. Murphy, Senior Vice President at Turner Construction Company, the leading general builder in the US; Geoff Miller, CEO of Grand Rapids Chair; and an executive from Nucleus Software.

“I’m thrilled that we have such a diverse group of international businesses represented on the panel, including small and large consumer goods manufacturers, construction, and software,” notes Reich. Adding, “It shows how lean thinking and hoshin kanri can be applied to just about any business or use case.”

Reich, author of the highly anticipated book Managing on Purpose, out on March 5 as well, will share insights on implementing hoshin kanri, a core component of lean management systems. His presentation will focus on aligning organizational strategy with daily operations to drive sustainable growth and foster a culture of continuous improvement.

Event Highlights

Keynote Speech:
Mark Reich will discuss key concepts from his new book and offer practical strategies for leaders to enhance their organizations’ performance.

Panel Discussion:
Reich will lead Brey and Murphy in exploring real-world applications of lean principles across various sectors.

Book Launch:
Managing on Purpose will be officially released at the summit, and copies will be available for purchase and signing.

About Mark Reich
Mark Reich has over 23 years of experience with Toyota, where he was the process owner of hoshin kanri for North America. As a senior coach at LEI, he has collaborated with numerous business leaders to implement lean practices, including developing and executing hoshin kanri in their organizations. His unique perspective makes Managing on Purpose a vital resource and a practical toolkit for aspiring leaders.

About the Lean Summit 2025
The Lean Summit 2025 is LEI’s flagship event. It brings together leaders and practitioners from diverse industries to share knowledge and best practices in lean thinking and methodologies. For more information about the Lean Summit 2025 or to register, please visit https://events.lean.org/event/cbccfabf-1519-4cd2-ae7c-cc2000844719/overview-lean-summit-2025.

About the Lean Enterprise Institute
The Lean Enterprise Institute Inc. is a nonprofit based in Boston, MA, with a mission to make things better by advancing lean thinking and practice. It fulfills its mission by publishing books, instructing workshops, hosting conferences, partnering with companies, and issuing free content on its website, www.lean.org.

Grammy Nominated, Long Time Spiritual Music Leader Jai Uttal Releases His Version of the Hanuman Chalisa

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Fairfax, CA – November 14, 2024 – Jai Uttal’s majestic musical setting for the ancient Hindu prayer, the Hanuman Chalisa, is a tour-de-force of devotional musical artistry. The 16-minute composition moves dynamically through myriad moods, bringing to vivid life the epic story of the shape-shifting Hindu monkey deity Hanuman—avatar of Shiva and embodiment of universal love (bhakti) and service (seva) to one’s fellow beings.

The Hanuman Chalisa text was composed by the 16th-century Indian poet and saint Tulsidas. He adapted earlier Sanskrit sources to sing Hanuman’s praises in the vernacular Awadhi language—the language of his people and time period. The Hanuman Chalisa is a life-affirming prayer for all times and places.

“Now, in this time of global crisis,” says Jai, “I offer you my version, entitled Hanuman Chalisa for World Peace.”

Jai Uttal first learned the Chalisa at the feet of his gurus, Neem Karoli Baba and Sri Siddhi Ma, in India in the 1970s. It has been a part of his daily, personal spiritual practice ever since. He decided to share the Chalisa with a wider audience when theater director David Kersnar approached Jai about turning it into an opera for the stage. Early GarageBand demos—Couch Potato Productions as Jai calls them—soon blossomed into a gloriously rich studio recording with longtime Jai Uttal collaborators, the Pagan Love Orchestra and producer Ben Leinbach.

The result is a work of multi-hued, many-faceted splendor. A wistful Doha, or invocation to the gurus, gives way to jubilantly melodic verses—40 in all—punctuated by resplendent recurrences of the root mantra “Jay Sita Ram, Jay Sita Ram, Jay Jay Hanuman.” The music moves with the story—through major and minor modes, deeply-rooted grooves, and moments of floating timelessly in space. A stirring sense of pageantry informs Peter Apfelbaum’s triumphant horn arrangements. Backing vocalists Sandy and Natalie Cressman and Prajna Vieira evoke the feminine energy of Sita, the divine heroine of the saga. Their voices lend an angelic glow to the music.

And throughout, the voice of Jai Uttal—imbued with a lifetime of devotional chanting—guides us deep into the Hanuman Chalisa’s many subtle shades of Divine Love.

“I wanted to make a musical arrangement that expresses the dynamic and brilliantly shining personality of Hanuman,” says Jai, “and something that also reflects the many facets of my long musical, human, and spiritual journey.”

With its joyful, uplifting artistry, the Hanuman Chalisa for World Peace is a balm for our troubled times.
– Alan DiPerna, October 2024

Anne Lamott and Jai Uttal Bring Magic to the Marin Showcase Theater on November 17

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Jai Will Also Release His Version of the beloved prayer, the Hanuman Chalisa, on November 15th

San Rafael, CA – October 30, 2024—Bestselling author and activist Anne Lamott and world-renowned, Grammy-nominated musician Jai Uttal will join forces to present an evening of holy music and beloved stories. “Sanctuaries: An Evening with Anne Lamott and Jai Uttal” will occur at the Marin Showcase Theater, 20 Ave of the Flags, San Rafael, CA 94903, on November 17 from 7-9 pm. These long-time friends have found perfect creative partners in each other to express what they have experienced along life’s way with reverence, harmony, and laughter.

In these often cold and frightening times, Jai and Anne will present sacred songs and stories illuminating the great teachings life has bestowed on them as they search for meaning, truth, authenticity, and peace. This night will be a kind of duet. Jai will offer chants and songs of praise and devotion to open our hearts, and Anne will read from her inspiring 2024 book “Somehow: Thoughts on Love,” a #1 New York Times bestseller.

Jai and Anne have been friends since they met in 2001 at a local 12-step meeting. Now, both are based in Marin, and they have long wanted to work together. Jai notes, “Annie and I have been trying to figure out a way to work together for ages, and we were super happy when this Marin event came together. We look forward to sharing our art and the community we hold dear.”

Anne and Jai are excited for their Bay Area fans and friends to see them for this unique event – two old friends on stage, offering love and creation and open to magic.

Tickets are $108 for the first three rows, $80 for the middle section, and $50 for the last three rows. Tickets are available at https://tickets.marincenter.org/eventperformances.asp?evt=418.

Meanwhile, Jai has been hard at work recording what some have called his ‘Magnum Opus,’ Hanuman Chalisa, for World Peace. The Hanuman Chalisa is a devotional hymn in praise of Hanuman that is recited by millions of people every day across the globe. It was written in the 16th century by the poet-saint Tulsi Das, who became a folk hero for retelling the Ramayana in the language of the common people. Hanuman, one of the central characters of this epic tale, is an incarnation of Lord Shiva, a devotee of Rama and the embodiment of ‘power in the service of love.’ Tulsi Das’ Hanuman Chalisa praises, invokes, and contains the very essence of the beloved monkey god and asks him to bless us with devotion, strength, and purpose. Jai will be pressing a very limited edition of the signed CD available to a few lucky people. Fans are encouraged to pre-save the song from https://ffm.to/hanuman-chalisa. Jai’s version of this song is available for the media to preview here.

The HER Group Presents SewDown’s Return for LA Fashion Week Fall 2024, Atousa G’s Community Powered Show & Sale at Brand New DTLA Club West Eight October 19

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Los Angeles – October 3, 2024 – Designer Atousa G’s Fashion Forward event, SewDown, returns for Los Angeles Fashion Week Fall 2024, presented by The HER Group. The popular and populist show and sale will start with a red carpet at 6 pm, October 19, at Downtown LA’s newest nightclub, West Eight, 425 W. 8th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90014. SewDown will feature cutting-edge lines on the runway, music from top artists and DJs, striking visuals, and the sexy crowd that made SewDown the favorite streetwear show during LA’s Fashion Week from 2003 – 2014. Limited fashion show seats are available, with more added for the after-party with Marques Wyatt starting at 10 pm; tickets are available here.

With up-and-coming cutting-edge designers, including Atousa’s eponymous nightlife forward Atousa G line and her even sexier range, A Line Called K, plus Knight Beauties, Jessica Hoff, FRISKMEGOOD, Azem Couture, and more, expected for the Spring 2025 runway show, SewDown will retake its reign as THE Fashion Week closing event.

Confirmed DJs include headliner Marques Wyatt, who will bring his legendary enlightening house music vibes; LA’s popular DISCOS XXX founder Tavish, known for progressive, fun, disco house; Chase Aldrige of Better Late, who will bring his disco pumpers; G Dubbs of Sacred Grounds LA, known for his soulful underground sound; and Scott K. of We Own the Night, who will play a fantastic house music set. KCRW’s dance music divas, Holly Adams and Valida, will also spin.

SewDown allows their designers to show their designs to buyers, the press, and the public. Event attendees can also purchase clothing, jewelry, music, footwear, art, and more at wholesale and sample sale prices. In addition to fashion, SewDown will feature art installations, live painting, visuals from top VJs, and their signature – world-renowned music artists and DJs.

“We are so excited to allow a new group of designers to show their styles in our unique environment,” said show creator, producer, and designer Atousa G., adding, “This event is a blend of cutting-edge fashion, mind-blowing art, and great music, fused with Los Angeles’ sexiest crowd.”

Since its debut in Hollywood in 2003, SewDown has allowed more than 100 designers to showcase their fashions and sell their products to an eclectic and trend-setting audience. In addition to producing SewDown, Atousa G is a designer and stylist who works with top talent worldwide.

Current sponsors include Paul Mitchell, Chic Studios, and DNA Energy Drink. More sponsors are welcome! The charity recipient for all proceeds is the C.O.A.L.I.T.I.O.N for the Homeless and Families in Need. Attendees will include VIPs, stylists, photographers, influencers, and more. The Red-Carpet Pre-Event and VIP Business Lounge will include food, drinks, and gifting.

The Los Angeles Times called Sew Down, “Where up-and-coming designers up and come.” SewDown 2024 promises to bring LA Fashion Week 2024 a creative edge and a fantastic party. Be down, SewDown.

Tickets are available at https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sewdown-la-2024-tickets-1028664131107.

Mamas in Music Hosts “Nobody Puts Mama in a Corner” Debut Fundraiser in LA

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Woodland Hills, CA – October 9, 2024 – On Saturday, November 9, the nonprofit organization Mamas in Music (MiM) will host an exclusive evening fundraiser at a beautiful Woodland Hills estate in Los Angeles, California. The “Nobody Puts Mama in a Corner” event will feature live music performances, a cocktail reception, a raffle, and a silent auction. Funds raised will support MiM’s mission to provide essential resources that empower Mothers to advance their musical careers by creating a shared network, generating opportunities, and offering financial and emotional support initiatives.

The musical highlight of the evening will be an acoustic songwriter showcase featuring talented MiM member and American Idol alum Devyn Rush. Funds raised through ticket sales, auctions, and sponsorships will expand MiM’s global online community platform. This will enable mothers worldwide to connect and access job opportunities, workshops, and more. Guests can expect intimate, inspiring performances from these musical mamas.

MiM’s first-ever Los Angeles fundraiser aims to expand its online platform, which unites mothers in the music industry globally. Thanks to generous event sponsorship from Tito’s Handmade Vodka and other sponsors and donors, every dollar raised will go directly to MiM’s outreach programs, workshops, and networking events.

“Since launching Mamas in Music in 2019, we’ve worked hard to build a vibrant, supportive community for mothers in the music industry,” said MiM founder Tiff Randol. “Our LA fundraiser is a chance to celebrate that growth while raising crucial funds to expand our programs and make a real difference for music mothers everywhere.”

Since its launch in 2019, MiM has built an independent grassroots movement that has united over 1,500 mothers across 11 countries as the first organization in the music industry specifically focused on the deep need for support, awareness, and advocacy for mothers in music. MiM provides programming like panels, songwriting camps, production music opportunities, podcasts, and monthly virtual meetups. The organization has also fostered 20+ partnerships with leading brands and organizations, including APM, The MLC, In The Groove, BMG Production Music, Levis, and the PRS Foundation, to deliver resources, visibility, and career opportunities tailored to mothers in the music industry.

The “Nobody Puts Mama in a Corner” fundraiser will take place on Saturday, November 9, from 4-6:30 PM at the Woodland Hills Estate (address provided upon ticket purchase). Tickets are $40, or $75 for VIP, which includes two raffle tickets, a bottle of wine, and a seat close to the performances. Members get tickets for 50% off. Both are available for purchase here. The evening will feature live music, a reception, a silent auction, a raffle, and more.

Call for Participation/Save the Date:

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The HER Group Presents SewDown’s Return for LA Fashion Week Fall 2024, Atousa G’s Community Powered Show & Sale Set for October 19

Los Angeles – September 12, 2024 – Designer Atousa G’s Fashion Forward event, SewDown, returns for Los Angeles Fashion Week Fall 2024, presented by The HER Group. The popular and populist show and sale will occur on October 19 at a location to be announced soon. SewDown will feature cutting-edge lines on the runway, music from top artists and DJs, striking visuals, and the sexy crowd that made SewDown the favorite streetwear show during LA’s Fashion Week from 2003 – 2014.

SewDown 2024 is booking for runway lines, visual artists, and vendors. Potential participants who want to show their lines or art or have their visuals or music considered for inclusion should contact Atousa at atousag@gmail.com. Hair, makeup, and gift bag inclusion are handled for runway lines.

With ten up-and-coming cutting-edge designers, including Atousa’s eponymous nightlife forward Atousa G line and her even sexier range, A Line Called K, expected for the Spring 2025 runway show, SewDown will retake its reign as THE Fashion Week closing event.

Confirmed DJs include headliner Marques Wyatt, who will bring his legendary enlightening house music vibes; LA’s popular DISCOS XXX founder Tavish, known for progressive, fun, disco house; Chase Aldrige of Better Late, who will bring his disco pumpers; G Dubbs of Sacred Grounds LA, known for his soulful underground sound; and Scott K. of We Own the Night, who will play a fantastic house music set.

SewDown allows their designers to show their designs to buyers, the press, and the public. Event attendees can also purchase clothing, jewelry, music, footwear, art, and more at wholesale and sample sale prices. In addition to fashion, SewDown will feature art installations, live painting, visuals from top VJs, and their signature – world-renowned music artists and DJs.

“We are so excited to allow a new group of designers to show their styles in our unique environment,” said show creator, producer, and designer Atousa G., adding, “This event is a blend of cutting-edge fashion, mind-blowing art, and great music, fused with Los Angeles’ sexiest crowd.”

Since its debut in Hollywood in 2003, SewDown has allowed more than 100 designers to showcase their fashions and sell their products to an eclectic and trend-setting audience. In addition to producing SewDown, Atousa G is a designer and stylist who works with top talent worldwide.

Current sponsors include Paul Mitchell, Chic Studios, and DNA Energy Drink. More sponsors are welcome! The charity recipient for all proceeds is the C.O.A.L.I.T.I.O.N for the Homeless and Families in Need. Attendees will include VIPs, stylists, photographers, influencers, and more. The Red Carpet Pre-Event and VIP Business Lounge will include food, drinks, and gifting.

The Los Angeles Times called Sew Down, “Where up-and-coming designers up and come.” SewDown 2024 promises to bring LA Fashion Week 2024 a creative edge and a fantastic party. Be down, SewDown.

# # #

About The HER Group:
The Her Group is a fully integrated boutique style Fashion Showroom & PR House specializing in Celebrity, Influencer, and Media Placements for various successful and illustrious clients nationwide. We are seasoned in pushing creative boundaries & executing successful campaigns that are tailored to each client. Our skillfully trained & experienced Brand Managers can provide the one-on-one attention that our brands deserve, which is needed for proper growth and ROI. https://www.instagram.com/thehergroup/.

Atousa G: https://www.instagram.com/atousag/

To submit lines or artists for participation, please email atousag@gmail.com. For sponsorship or vending, or media seeking information, images, video, or to interview Atousa G, please contact Susan von Seggern at susan@susanvonseggern.com or 213-840-0077.

Wandering in Time Productions, Known for the Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire and the Oregon Renaissance Faire, announces Inaugural Festival Lineup for the Oregon Celtic Festival

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New Fest Takes Place September 13-15 in Canby, OR

Canby, OR – Pack your kilts, gather your clan, and dance the night away! Wandering in Time Productions and the Washington Renaissance Arts & Education Society, the noted Pacific Northwest event team behind the Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire and the Oregon Renaissance Faire, are thrilled to announce the initial lineup for Oregon Celtic Festival 2024! The new fest occurs at the Clackamas County Fairgrounds, 694 NE 4th Avenue, Canby, OR, September 13-15. Tickets are available at orcelticfest.com/ticket-info/.

Festival founder David Day notes, “We are thrilled to feature an extraordinary lineup of Celtic musicians from around the world, ranging across the spectrum of genres and giving us a glimpse into both the traditional and contemporary sounds of modern Celtic music. From rock to pop, jam, bluegrass, and even electronic influences, there is something for all musical tastes at the Oregon Celtic Festival.”

Headliners for this family-friendly 3-day music festival include:
The Elders remain one of the top Celtic-rock bands in the US after 26 years because of their timeless sound. Their passion, great melodies, unique harmonies, unparalleled musicianship, and strong songwriting keep them connected. Known for their unique storytelling, full of love, loyalty, and Irish feistiness, their ability to bring together elements both musically progressive and rooted in tradition has won them a broad international fanbase and critical acclaim.

Screaming Orphans is a chart-topping all-sister Celtic folk and pop band from Donegal, Ireland. They are known worldwide for their award-winning sound, which combines original pop songs with a unique take on traditional Irish music. From an early age, the Diver sisters entertained international audiences around Ireland, accompanying their mother, legendary céilí singer Kathleen Fitzgerald. The sisters’ trademark spine-tingling four-part harmony, instrumental mastery, and highly energized performances take audiences on an exhilarating and emotional musical journey.

Alasdair Fraser is “the Michael Jordan of Scottish fiddling” with a concert and recording career spanning 30+ years, a long list of awards and accolades, including induction into the Scottish Traditional Music Hall of Fame, radio and television credits, and feature performances on top movie soundtracks including Titanic. He will take the stage with many Friends at this year’s festival, including his son, Galen Fraser, who is also on this year’s lineup as one half of San Miguel Fraser – a dynamic duo that combines dynamic fiddling and string arrangements with the soaring, life-celebrating singing of the other half of the duo – Maria San Miguel.

Tempest is celebrating 36 years of Celtic Rock! Formed in 1988, they deliver a globally renowned hybrid of high-energy Folk Rock, fusing Irish reels, Scottish ballads, Norwegian influences, and other world music elements.

Wake the Dead is a romp that flows seamlessly from rock grooves to hot Irish reels and from haunting airs to achingly beautiful melodies familiar to Deadheads everywhere. Seven of the best-known and most respected players in the West come together to create jams that keep the tie-dye swirling and vocal harmonies that float like clouds. These are worlds meshing, coalescing ­ creating a whole new realm of possibility, true to the spirits of the Grateful Dead and the eternally hopeful Celts.

Other performing artists continue the who’s who of the top Celtic acts touring today, including Reverie Road, The Jeremiahs, TRÚ, Hanneke Cassel Trio, Colin Cotter & Sumaia Jackson, Elias Alexander, Adams, Martin & Linahon, Tradmill, and The Unipiper!

Festival founder Tracy Nietupski adds, “We can’t wait to welcome everyone to the inaugural Oregon Celtic Festival! Prepare for an unforgettable weekend brimming with enchanting music, spirited dance, and delectable food and drink. Tap your toes, lift a glass, and revel with us at the Pacific Northwest’s premiere Celtic music celebration!”

In addition to the music, guests can visit the “Fairy Realm,” home to children’s events and activities designed to be an experience for kids and kids-at-heart. Hosted by the Wyldewood Fae, it is home to costumed fairies and many magical experiences, including bubbles, crafting, songs, games, storytelling, and more!

A bustling marketplace filled with merchant and artisan vendors will showcase their unique crafts and wares, while a diverse selection of food vendors will offer delicious Celtic fare and modern treats. The Oregon Celtic Festival encourages camping on-site in classic West Coast Festival style, with tent and RV options available.

For Celtic music and culture fans who are 21+, the festival also offers an add-on experience—the “Bard’s Tour of Whiskey” tasting event. A connoisseur will guide guests through a collection of global whiskeys, and all participants will receive a commemorative whiskey glass and light snacks to accompany the tasting!

The new Oregon Celtic Festival invites Celtic music fans, families, and festival aficionados to the beautiful Clackamas County Fairgrounds from September 13 to 15 for this music-forward Celtic jamboree. Tickets are available at orcelticfest.com/ticket-info/.

In closing, Tracy notes, “Set in the mystical pine forest of Oregon, our festival offers a unique blend of breathtaking setting, world-class performances, and family-friendly atmosphere. It’s the perfect destination for a fall adventure in the Pacific Northwest.”

Jim “Kimo” West & Joss Jaffe Release Santhi Album

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Summer Music Celebration in Venice, CA August 18

Los Angeles, CA – August 15, 2024 – Jim “Kimo” West, well known for his twelve-album catalog of slack key guitar that has won him a Grammy and two nominations, as well as his work as “Weird Al” Yankovic’s guitar player, and top 10 artist on Billboard’s New Age chart Joss Jaffe release their new album, Santhi on all platforms tomorrow. Following the success of their 2022 release, Aum Akua, which artfully blended Hawaiian and Indian sounds, Santhi, takes their unique global fusion to new heights.

Inspired by the spirituality and natural splendor of the famed Indonesian island of Bali, Santhi‘s Sanskrit title means “peaceful in spiritual and physical happiness,” which comes from the Sanskrit word Shanti, a widely known word for peace. The island of Bali is renowned for its art, spirituality, and stunning natural beauty. A unique history of Sanskrit and Hindu elements influences many aspects of Balinese culture.

The album expands on Aum Akua‘s instrumentation with the addition of mesmerizing tuned percussion like Handpan, Tuned Tabla Tarang, and Balinese gamelan-influenced melodic percussion. This transports listeners on an auditory journey through the meditative shades of ragas, Slendro, and Pelog scales, and Kimo’s emotive slack key guitar.

Songs reflect the interplay of dark and light in titles like “Shadow Play,” “Sun Rain,” and “Rainbow Body.” The entire palette of instruments, from bansuri flutes to fretless bass, creates a rich tapestry of tone and texture. Recorded by West and mastered by the legendary John Golden, Santhi promises an immersive global fusion experience that captivates and engages the listener.

Joss and Kimo’s collaborations have garnered critical and fan acclaim in the world music, jazz, and new-age genres. With its innovative east-meets-west stylings, Santhi will enthrall existing fans and introduce new listeners to its unique appeal.

The release day focus track from Santhi, “Afterglow,” the album opener, draws listeners into the set with its warm inviting vibes, evoking an ocean breeze flowing over one in savasana. It’s perfect for relaxation, concentration, study, rest, sleep, yoga, and meditation. The song would work perfectly in a yoga playlist or relaxing at the beach.

West & Jaffe will perform with special guests, Grammy winners Opium Moon, and Masood Ali Khan, at the Summer Music Celebration, an epic spiritual jam at 7:30 pm this Sunday August 18, 2024, at The Lab at 12024 Venice Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90066. Tickets are available here.

The Stratos Ensemble’s Freeing Form Out

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Los Angeles – April 12, 2024 – Dean De Benedictis’ Stratos Ensemble, the improvisational/jazz outfit he’s led that has been officially expanding the margin between electronic soundscapes and full-band sensibilities since 2004, releases its first full-length album since 2016, Freeing Form today. Freeing Form is available now at https://open.spotify.com/album/4qrifbTIVI9lBZhzZyprkn?si=Y6Yu_E3XROek7f-aN3dc8g and all digital platforms.

The Stratos Ensemble approaches their music from an ambient, progressive style base rather than the traditional, non-idiomatic, free-jazz school of thought. They focus on textured audio exploration as much as musicianship, and their performances often extend into epic, long-form sets of sonic and melodic exploration, moving through peaks and valleys of intensity and emotional dynamics.

This latest LP by the Stratos Ensemble, entitled Freeing Form, is more versatile than any of the band’s previous releases. It covers a selection of work from 2013-2023, focusing mainly on the last two years of material performed by the band’s most current lineup of players. Various vocal elements are also introduced, a development following the arrival of a lead singer, Nichole Michelle Jones, in 2022. The music of Freeing Form, much like the rest of the Stratos Ensemble’s work, began as complete improvisations tracked at various studios. Later, De Benedictis mixed and edited these recordings to make them sound more like a production, supplementing the esoteric audio abandon typically associated with improvised music recordings.

The title of Freeing Form is a play-on-words to the term free-form and is a comment on the world of free and improvised music. One of the ideas it intends to suggest is that true freedom comes in many forms, even binding ones, and can be thought of in that way rather than always being considered a product of uncompromising will or whim.

The current lineup of musicians in The Stratos Ensemble are:

TJ Sammut — guitar
Robert Gross — bass
Nichole Michelle Jones — vocals, improv lyrics
Coco Roussel — drums, drum pads, additional synth
Dean De Benedictis — piano, synths, samplers, melodica, secondary vocals
Shaunte Palmer — trombone

Information about the individual tracks on the album follows:

Together In Flames
This piece, the album focus track (aka second single) coming out with the album today, in a slightly shorter single version here, was part of a longer recorded set. It was improvised and tracked live at Clear Lake Studios in 2022. Some post-production was done later by Dean. The title answers the mood in contrast with the lyrics.

Brand U New
This exciting and dense Eno-harkening piece was part of a more extended set improvised and recorded live at Clear Lake Studios in 2022. There was an error during recording, and Dean’s vocal parts were not tracked, so he redid them during minor editing in the post. The title is a play on words from Nichole’s improvised lyrics, some resembling known sayings.

Dunn
This piece, the first single of this album, released on March 25, was a group interpretation of a rough vamp sketch with no entirely premeditated parts (in Stratos’ tradition). The band also played along with a pre-programmed sequencer during the intro, comprised mainly of whispered consonants. The entire piece was improvised and recorded live at Clear Lake Studios in 2019 by Brandon McGregor (guitar), Coco Roussel (drums), Robert Gross (bass), and Dean De Benedictis (piano/synth /lead voice sample). The title is a hat-tip to the band’s fun-but-short-stint guitarist, Brandon.

Ray Of Night
This extended but moody jam was part of a longer recorded set. It was improvised and recorded live at Clear Lake Studios in 2022. Some post-production was done later by Dean. The title answers the mood in contrast with the spontaneous lyrics.

Up Tyner
This piece was also part of a longer recorded set. Dean began playing an old McCoy Tyner riff variation in slow swing, and the band soon joined. The title is a dedication to that moment. As always, the lyrics were improvised. The piece was improvised and tracked live at Clear Lake Studios in 2022.

We Hope AI Will Have Moments Like This
This cheekily titled piece was part of a more extended set improvised and recorded at 4th Street Studios in LA on the coldest day of 2023. Dean later did some post-production.

Nev
This piece was improvised live at Multi Media Studios in 2015 by Dean De Benedictis (melodica), Shaunte Palmer (trombone), Coco Rousell (drums), Rod McDowell (bass), and Daniel Coffeng (guitar effects). Some post-production was done later by Dean.

No Stranger
This piece is part of a more extended set. It was improvised and tracked at Amp Rehearsal Studios in 2013 by Dean De Benedictis (keyboards/embellishments), Rod McDowell (bass), Brock Bowers (drums), and Angelo Alonte (electric violin / 12-string guitar). Dean later did some post-production.

When Reminded Of Arcadia
Another extended jam was improvised and tracked at the bassist’s art loft in Arcadia, California, in 2014. The musicians were Dean De Benedictis (intro synth/lead synth), Brock Bowers (drums), Carl Royce (upright electric bass), Jim Goetsch (backup synth / mock piano), and Daniel Coffeng (guitar). Dean later did some post-production.

Lighthouse
This piece was part of an extended set improvised and recorded live at 4th Street Studios in LA during the coldest day of 2023. Dean later did some post-production. The title answers the spontaneous lyrics and mood, as it feels reverent and upbeat while simultaneously resembling lament and release. We thought it a fitting album end.