Join us Friday, May 3! We’ll feature the Danny Moynahan Trio, and Jennifer Leigh Warren, with JL on guitar & vocals. Jason Luckett performs and hosts.
First Fridays Jazz Night w/ Jason Luckett & Friends Friday, My 3, 2024 8-10:30pm (doors: 7:30) Lyd & Mo Photography Studio & Gallery 27 N Mentor Ave, Pasadena, CA 91106
Performing: Jennifer Leigh Warren Danny Moynahan Trio Jason Luckett
Ha! I’m laughing because this month as I write it is 68º and clear in LA. And for my new list members (welcome!), here’s the song that inspires friends to text me the weather report on these charmed days: “Good Day in LA” (on Bandcamp). It’s decidedly not even jazz adjacent, thus only been played once at First Fridays Jazz Night, by request! But we have a variety of things to catch up on, so enjoy it again, or for the first time, depending on what brought you here. (Scroll to the end for all the links and detailed info.)
To start, for First Fridays Jazz Night, w/ Jason Luckett & Friends on April 5 my guests will be the returning Marcelo Bucater, with the group, Little Brazil Trio, featuring Natália Spadini on vocals, Bruno Justi on guitar, and Marcelo on drums.
Jeanne Newhall is my other guest. We met doing the Aretha and Smokey tribute in January. Her piano and vocal arrangement of “Daydreaming” blew me away. I’ll accompany her on at least one tune, too.
Per usual, I’ll do a brief intro section, then close the night with a full set of my own. Can’t wait!
Before that, I’m going to be playing guitar and bass with Zoe FitzGerald Carter at Hotel Café, on Sunday, March 24, at 7pm. She’s in town promoting her new album, Before the Machine.
And I thought on Tuesday, March 26, you’d be able to see and hear me in a very unusual setting, on the sitcom Extended Family, starring Jon Cryer, Donald Faison, and Abagail Spencer. But it wasn’t the season finale (episode 13) it was the penultimate episode (#12) of a cute show about a divorced couple where the husband to be is the owner of the Boston Celtics (who aren’t playing well during most of the season, in contrast to real life). People started asking me about it when I got home this evening after writing this, so I found out it aired tonight. I filmed it in January and you can stream it on Peacock tonight.
For the inspiration corner…
… I’d guide you this month to the extended interview of Paul Simon on Stephen Colbert’s show. He was there to promote a new documentary on his music. What really got me was his spontaneous recitation of the lyrics for “Darling Lorraine,” a song he called one of his favorites, from the 2000 album, You’re the One. It’s a little known album and song, comparatively, but it’s one of my favorite Simon albums, and “Darling Lorraine” is one of my favorites on it. It was actually a big influence on my song, “The Passage of Time,” that I released on my live album a little while ago.
Another interview that I loved this month was Rick Beato interviewing George Benson. So much of it reminds me of my father, who was about 5 years older than Benson. For guitarists, this is a who’s who of the greats and beautiful memories of tutelage and mentorship. My favorite bit is when he talks of his step-father bringing an electric guitar home and how it blew the 7-year-old’s mind. It was a ploy to get the kid interested in music, just like my pops would sit me in front of the speakers to find what I liked before I could even speak. And, of course there were the George Benson albums he brought home to me later when I’d already taken to guitar, to nudge me towards jazz, specifically “The Other Side of Abbey Road,” which listening to now, I absolutely love, but didn’t completely get back then. But isn’t that the way gifts from your elders creep up on you. Rest in Peace, Pops: 25 years gone as of last week, so this interview felt like a hug.
Anyway, I hope you’ll join me in the coming days at some of these events. If you can make it on April 5 to Pasadena, you can bring drinks and snacks for yourself or to share, it’s kind of a salon/living room type experience. (As you might gather from the photo of last week’s artists: l to r, Casey Lipka, Marcel Camargo, Dusty Brough)
Lastly…
In the spirit of springtime, I’ll sign off with one of my favorite Desmond Tutu quotes:
“Do your little bit of good where you are; it’s those little bits of good put together that overwhelm the world.”
Excited to have Marcelo Bucater back to FFJN, this time with his Little Brazil Trio. In addition to producing, performing, and recording with artists such as Carrie Underwood, Ladybug Mecca, Arthur Verocai, Adrian Younge, Tinto Tango and Adam Levy, Marcelo is the Drum Department Chair at Los Angeles College of Music (LACM).
We’ll also have composer, pianist and singer Jeanne Newhall, whom I met at the Aretha & Smokey tributes I did in January. She did an amazing version of Aretha’s “Daydreaming,” which floored me, highlighting the more psychedelic edges of the tune, but in a more jazz context. I’m really excited to hear what she’ll do one our night.
Of course, I’ll be playing, too!
Hope you can make it!
Doors: 7:30 Showtime: 8pm
Suggested donation: $20 at the door or online Venmo: @jasonluckett PayPal.me/jasonluckett (100% goes to the musicians).
In Playhouse Village in the heart of Pasadena IG: @firstfridaysjazznight
Marcel Camargo introduced me to Casey Lipka, who will bring her new group, Casey Lipka & Tres Acústicos, to FFJN on March 1. Marcel is one of the Tres. And, though Casey is singing backed by the three nylon stringed guitars, she’ll play a bit of bass with me on my set!
Singer-songwriter and LA Native, Casey Lipka (@caseylipka) has toured as a bassist with rock band CAKE, played on NPR’s Mountain Stage, composed music for ballet and fronted an 18-piece orchestra celebrating the music of Motown legends Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. She’s been described as “an amalgam of pop, folk, and jazz wrapped in a neo-classical vibe, where her ethereal sound exudes both vulnerability and strength.” The guitarists joining her, in addition to Marcel, are Nadav Peled (@peled.guitar) and Dusty Brough (@dustybrough).
JASON LUCKETT
Date
City
Venue
Jason Luckett Pasadena Residency: Second Saturdays Jazz Night+
Library Girl Presents: Portrait of the Artist’s Mother – on Mother’s Day Night, MAY 11th, 7 PM. Show #180! Featuring readings by: Rick Bursky, Jane Cantillon, Melanie Chartoff, Melissa Greenwood, Stevie Kalinich, Shivani Mehta, Cynthia Adam Prochaska, and Kelly Shire. Featuring music by Jason Luckett. For tickets, go to ruskingrouptheatre.com – Click SHOWS in top right. Look for Library Girl icon. This is the LAST LIBRARY GIRL in ORIGINAL RUSKIN THEATRE BEFORE MOVING TO NEW (INTERIM) RUSKIN SPACE.
Marcel Camargo (@marcelcamargomusic) is a Brazilian guitarist, who’s spent a lot of time as Michael Bublé’s guitarist. He’s an incredible composer and arranger, as well. Recently, he was on tour with Brazilian Legend, Arthur Verocai. (FFJN alum Marcelo Bucater played drums on that tour!) He’s also worked with diverse artists from Herb Alpert, Sérgio Mendes, and Bebel Gilberto to Tom Harrell and Miguel Atwood-Ferguson to Macy Gray, Inara George, and Jason Mraz.
I met Marcel in the 90s when he was playing a lot with Gretchen Parlato, while both were students at UCLA. When I started this series, he was one of the first people I wanted on it, so I’m so happy that he’s finally able to do it.
JASON LUCKETT
Date
City
Venue
Jason Luckett Pasadena Residency: Second Saturdays Jazz Night+
Library Girl Presents: Portrait of the Artist’s Mother – on Mother’s Day Night, MAY 11th, 7 PM. Show #180! Featuring readings by: Rick Bursky, Jane Cantillon, Melanie Chartoff, Melissa Greenwood, Stevie Kalinich, Shivani Mehta, Cynthia Adam Prochaska, and Kelly Shire. Featuring music by Jason Luckett. For tickets, go to ruskingrouptheatre.com – Click SHOWS in top right. Look for Library Girl icon. This is the LAST LIBRARY GIRL in ORIGINAL RUSKIN THEATRE BEFORE MOVING TO NEW (INTERIM) RUSKIN SPACE.
I’m feeling sunny thinking about the next FFJN on March 1. Marcel Camargo and Casey Lipka & Tres Acústicos will join me.
I met Marcel in the 90s when he was playing a lot with Gretchen Parlato, while both were students at UCLA. When I started this series, he was one of the first people I wanted on it, so I’m so happy that he’s finally able to do it.
Through Marcel, I met Casey, who will bring her new group, Casey Lipka & Tres Acústicos, to the evening. Marcel is one of the Tres. And though Casey is singing backed by the three nylon stringed guitars, she’ll play a bit of bass with me on my set!
Here’s a little more on both artists:
Marcel Camargo (@marcelcamargomusic) is a Brazilian guitarist, who’s spent a lot of time as Michael Bublé’s guitarist. He’s an incredible composer and arranger, as well. Recently, he was on tour with Brazilian Legend, Arthur Verocai. (FFJN alum Marcelo Bucater played drums on that tour!) He’s also worked with diverse artists from Herb Alpert, Sérgio Mendes, and Bebel Gilberto to Tom Harrell and Miguel Atwood-Ferguson to Macy Gray, Inara George, and Jason Mraz.
Singer-songwriter and LA Native, Casey Lipka (@caseylipka) has toured as a bassist with rock band CAKE, played on NPR’s Mountain Stage, composed music for ballet and fronted an 18-piece orchestra celebrating the music of Motown legends Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell. She’s been described as “an amalgam of pop, folk, and jazz wrapped in a neo-classical vibe, where her ethereal sound exudes both vulnerability and strength.” The guitarists joining her, in addition to Marcel, are Nadav Peled (@peled.guitar) and Dusty Brough (@dustybrough).
And just for fun, if you’ve forgotten, here’s my brief bio:
Jason Luckett writes, sings, and plays to break down barriers. With a love for jazz, soul, classic singer-songwriters, and Brazilian music he’s performed on stages worldwide from LA Library’s ALOUD series to Glastonbury, SXSW, UCLA’s Royce Hall and Copenhagen Songwriters Festival. He’s also recorded or played with artists as diverse as Kenny Burrell, Russell Ferrante, the Indigo Girls, Melissa Etheridge, and members of Bauhaus, Red Hot Chili Peppers, and Ozomatli.
Can’t believe we’re celebrating the 1st Anniversary of First Fridays Jazz Night w/Jason Luckett & Friends! Joining me for full sets are Stefanie Naifeh (of The Underthings) w/Jeff Paris, doing an exploration of early blues and jazz; and Sorcerers of Peace (Jeff Dean, Rober Luis, Aziz Yehia, Hamed Habibpour). Jeff was with us playing in Lula in July and Rober was with Danette Christine on our very first show. I introduced Rober to Jeff, after meeting him that night, so it’s kind of like the band emerged from this community.
Hopefully we’ll have a couple surprises during my set, too!
Can’t wait to celebrate with you!
First Fridays Jazz Night w/ Jason Luckett & Friends Friday, February 2, 2024 8-10:30pm (doors: 7:30) Lyd & Mo Photography Studio & Gallery 27 N Mentor Ave, Pasadena, CA 91106
Performing: Stefanie Naifeh The Sorcerers of Peace Jason Luckett
Hosted by Jason Luckett
Doors: 7:30 Showtime: 8pm
Suggested donation: $20 at the door or online Venmo: @jasonluckett PayPal.me/jasonluckett (100% goes to the musicians).
In Playhouse Village in the heart of Pasadena IG: @firstfridaysjazznight
Megan Shung often described as ‘the 21st Century violinist’, is an international violinist, composer, producer, and educator based in Los Angeles, California. Adept at multiple genres and styles, she has performed/recorded with artists including Anthony Kiedis, Michael Bublé, Seal & Billy Childs. In addition to being an active performer, Megan is also a passionate educator. Currently on the Suzuki and jazz faculty at the Pasadena Conservatory of Music (PCM). In 2023, she became the co-artist director of String Project Los Angeles a 501(c)(3) organization with a mission to foster the bowed strings teaching community while celebrating the musical and cultural diversity of the city of LA.
Ryan Whyman is a seasoned pianist and composer from Los Angeles, and has made a living performing and recording with various artists and ensembles over the last decade. As a composer, he writes regularly for film, TV, and video games. Ryan released his debut album, Fantasies & Memories, in 2019.
JASON LUCKETT
Date
City
Venue
Jason Luckett Pasadena Residency: Second Saturdays Jazz Night+
Library Girl Presents: Portrait of the Artist’s Mother – on Mother’s Day Night, MAY 11th, 7 PM. Show #180! Featuring readings by: Rick Bursky, Jane Cantillon, Melanie Chartoff, Melissa Greenwood, Stevie Kalinich, Shivani Mehta, Cynthia Adam Prochaska, and Kelly Shire. Featuring music by Jason Luckett. For tickets, go to ruskingrouptheatre.com – Click SHOWS in top right. Look for Library Girl icon. This is the LAST LIBRARY GIRL in ORIGINAL RUSKIN THEATRE BEFORE MOVING TO NEW (INTERIM) RUSKIN SPACE.
Known principally as a Jazz singer, Cheryl’s versatility encompasses many musical genres. Singing in four languages, Cheryl has performed around the world (including sharing the stage with J.J. Johnson, Wynton Marsalis, Quincy Jones, and a guest member spot with the world renowned Clara Ward Singers), and has recorded with a score of respected and beloved artists. Her 16 years of Operatic training have brought her to the stage as a featured soloist with the Denver Symphony Orchestra, the Florida Orchestra and the Lawrence University Orchestra in Appleton, Wisconsin. She has toured extensively throughout South America and the Caribbean, nurturing her love for Samba, Bossa Nova, Salsa and the riches of Latin and Afro-Cuban music. Her tours in Europe and Asia enthralled audiences.
A sought-after vocal clinician conducting numerous workshops and clinics across the U.S., she is also a founding member of the Jazz Vocal Coalition and retains an esteemed musical presence in Los Angeles, having been heard on stages ranging from the Los Angeles County Museum of Art’s prestigious Friday Jazz Series to the Hollywood Bowl to the Hollywood and Las Vegas branches of the House of Blues.
What sets Cheryl apart from others is her incredible voice, which imbues each word she sings with a beauty and clarity all its own, taking the listener along on an extraordinary journey. She opens her soul through her music and aims to make a direct connection with every listener.
She has created and performed a one woman show on the life of the great singer/dancer/actress Ethel Waters and has produced and participated in numerous recording projects. Her most recent is entitled LISTEN TO THIS. It features a remarkable cast of players including John Beasley, Rahn Coleman(Producer), Brandon Fields, John Hammond, Rickey Minor and, most notably, her husband and esteemed keyboardist/arranger, Phillip Cabasso, M.D.
Cheryl D. Barnes brings a singular warmth and empathy to every line she sings, engaging listeners from a purr to a power belt. Beloved around the world as a captivating live performer, she is one artist not to be missed.
Visit Cheryl’s website for more in-depth reviews and information. www.cheryldbarnes.com
PHILLIP CABASSO….Jazz Piano, Arranger, Composer
Beginning at age 5, Phillip Cabasso began a life long musical journey. Piano lessons, music in school, studying arranging and composition and performing on piano and trombone…all culminating in a 30 year collaboration with his wife, jazz singer Cheryl Barnes. Their group, usually a trio with piano, bass and drums, performs regularly and wows audiences with their precision playing and artful renditions of jazz standards, R and B, Brazilian, as well as original compositions. This career taking place throughout university and medical school studies, and as a respected full time internal medicine physician. He considers himself extremely fortunate to play with some of the greatest musicians in the world, not to mention, to be the musical director for the fabulous Ms Barnes!
JASON LUCKETT
Date
City
Venue
Jason Luckett Pasadena Residency: Second Saturdays Jazz Night+
Library Girl Presents: Portrait of the Artist’s Mother – on Mother’s Day Night, MAY 11th, 7 PM. Show #180! Featuring readings by: Rick Bursky, Jane Cantillon, Melanie Chartoff, Melissa Greenwood, Stevie Kalinich, Shivani Mehta, Cynthia Adam Prochaska, and Kelly Shire. Featuring music by Jason Luckett. For tickets, go to ruskingrouptheatre.com – Click SHOWS in top right. Look for Library Girl icon. This is the LAST LIBRARY GIRL in ORIGINAL RUSKIN THEATRE BEFORE MOVING TO NEW (INTERIM) RUSKIN SPACE.
