Network Newsletter

Summer 2006

CJA Network Featured Article: What is a Christian Jazz Artist Anyway? Is a Christian jazz artist a musical cat that only hangs and blows with other Christian musicians?...that only plays hymns and gospel tunes and hands out salvation tracks to people?...or only plays at churches? (doesn't do "secular" gigs)...or thinks that he/she should only play jazz as a, "tool for evangelism"?

Dan Dobek -  Pianist /Organist Dan Dobek attended Berklee College of Music studying with Charles Banocos, and Emanual Zambelli.  As a composer and performer Dan draws inspiration from many musical styles including classical, swing, fusion, be-bop, country, blues and gospel. After Berklee Dan went on to play with John Bishop, former guitarist for Ray Charles, George Brown drummer for the late Wes Montgomery and George Benson. Today Dan combines his performances, studio session work and teaching. He is presently in the studio working on his ninth album. More information here!

Scatjazz - SCAT is a 4 piece jazz combo from Australia, specializing in original gospel music and jazz standards. In 2004 the group picked up a Gospel Music Award ( GMA Association)  here in America and when you hear their music and see them jam you’ll know why. Their new recording features Craig Burnett's lead vocals, who also contributes well crafted originals like,  "Hang Loose Brethren" and, "True Religion". More information here!

Con Campbell - Saxophonist Con Campbell is a, "jazz evangelist" located in Sydney, Australia.  Prior to entering Christian ministry, Con trained and performed as a professional jazz musician. He continues to play jazz regularly in professional settings, and also performs and speaks at evangelistic jazz nights, ect. . Since 1999, Con has combined his two passions of evangelism and jazz music by performing and speaking at evangelistic jazz concerts for churches, university groups, schools, and festivals. These concerts have enabled the clear presentation of the gospel within a natural jazz setting. More information here!

Kairos - is a jazz ensemble out of the UK. Their vision statement says, "Our vision is to offer our musical gifts for God's glory"! They do this using keyboards, vocals, saxophone, flute, and tuba! They play jazz gigs, churches, and other functions. We are excited and proud to have this group be a part of our network. For more information visit here!

Edwin Sepulveda - is a sax player who has 29 years of musical experience and has traveled to over 18 countries besides the USA. For over 21 years, he has had his own ministry traveling internationally with groups as well as sharing his music as his gift back for being given God-given talent. Edwin has participated in over 80 recordings as a saxophonist and musical producer .For more information visit here!

New And Notable

A New Jazz Quartet  - CANELA! Alex Acuna joins Grammy Award winner Patrice Rushen (Piano) and long time friends Abraham Laboriel (Bass) and Justo Almario (Sax) The group already has appearances in Europe this summer so do keep your eye out for this new group!. We will keep you informed!!

New Christian Jazz CD Network member guitarist Jay Leach recently produced and recorded a new CD, "Cleared For Takeoff" and joining him was Alex Acuna,  Abe Labrioel, Justo Almario, Kirk Whalum, Bill Cantos, and Chester Thompson ( many who are members of our network! ) Wow, what a line up! The resulting CD is outstanding, including Latin Jazz flavors with originals penned by Jay Leach, a very cool cover of the Hillsong worship song, "Love You So Much" and much more. To preview visit here!

Saxophonist Mark McClure's CD, "The Power Of Your Love" was a GMA award nominee for this year! Congratulations to Mark, Ken Barker, and Word Music for providing a great Christian Jazz CD! We are proud that Mark is a CJA Network member! Charts are available! To preview visit here!

Todd Billingsley and Causeway will be re-forming with plans for a Christmas jazz recording for 2006! That's great news for all the fans of this wonderful group! We will keep you posted!

Straight Ahead - A Comprehensive Guide To The Business Of Jazz. This is a great book written by Marty Khan about all the aspects of the business side of jazz without sacrificing dignity or artistic integrity! More info here! With over 400 pages it covers, "in depth" a huge amount of useful information for the jazz artist. All legal aspects of the music business are covered. You will love Marty's no non-sense approach!

Smooth Pizzazz...Jazz with Pizzazz! Just a few clicks away is an internet radio station containing nearly 500 tracks from top jazz artists. Broadcasting all over the world 24/7 Smooth Pizzazz has the most complete collection of jazzed up hymns, sacred jazz, and spirituals you will find anywhere! Its free so what are you waiting for? More info here!