NEW YORK, Sept. 25, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- In the past, jazz artists did not always mix different music styles into their performances but the practice is changing. Jazz critic Scott Yanow said, "I think people will look back at this era as a time when all different styles of jazz were being played."
Norman Hedman's tropical jazz is often characterized as Latin Jazz, World, and Latin Soul.
Jazz like Hedman's is beginning to be exploited on the internet. In 48 hours the New York percussionist had over 140 new friends added to his MySpace site location. From Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter to Alicia Keys and Jermaine Paul, Hedman's friends demonstrate their interest in his music.
A complete "turnkey" musician with an MBA, Hedman puts as much creativity into selling, composing and producing his music as he does playing his music. PowerLight Media, Hedman's label, consolidates his music collection and adds artists to its catalog. Scott Yanow believes "musicians having their own labels was inevitable." PowerLight taps into a niche market that larger companies overlook. Watch for labels to eventually consolidate so consumers can find their music.
Garden of Forbidden Fruit
Consistent with Tropique's five previous releases, Garden of Forbidden Fruit demonstrates a high-level musicianship is accessible to the music masses. With a wide palette of Latin and urban textures, Garden attracts listeners of all ages and genres. Whether you enjoy jazz, pop, R&B or soul: "The music makes you feel good. It's like a breath of fresh air ... the music is for any occasion and the sound is unique - just put it in and let it take over," says Ty Law, NFL Cornerback No. 24
Each of Tropique's seven members is at the top of his collective game. The intricate album features Hedman on congas and percussion and blasts off with the traditional Rundadar Dance that sounds easy. If you are looking to energize your soul, Rundadar Dance, Island Spice, and Cuttin' Loose are for you. Hedman and Ada Dyer, a backup singer for Sting, combine forces to write Closer for an authentic texture and pace that is reminiscent of the late '60s and early '70s.
Garden delivers the romance of jazz in a blend of urban and tropical island textures. The album offers tasteful compositions that indulge the listener ears from an accomplished band leader and sidemen.
About the Artist
A West Indies native, Norman Hedman breaks Latin jazz tradition in Manhattan and uses traditional Latin instruments in non-traditional ways. Although Tropique's rhythmic structure is considered typical Latin, Hedman presents his music with R&B at the core. He fuses high-energy Latin jazz with rhythmic and harmonic influences from Africa and the Indies to capture the essence of paradise.
International CD Release
Starry Nights live jazz performances continue at the American Museum of Natural History. The series features renowned jazz musicians performing in a spectacular New York setting. Visitors can enjoy mouth watering tapas and beverages. Norman Hedman is the only artist to return six consecutive years, and his 7:30 p.m. performance will be broadcast live on WBGO Jazz 88.3 FM.
Wednesday, October 4, 2006
WBGO Jazz 88.3 Interview
http://www.wbgo.org/listennow
Gary Walker & Norman Hedman
9:00 a.m.
Friday, October 6, 2006
American Museum of Natural History
http://www.amnh.org/rose/specials/jazz/
Central Park West & 79th Street
New York, NY 10024
(212) 769-5100
6:00 p.m. & 7:30 p.m.
$8-$14 Concert & Museum
(suggested)
For expanded media release, quotes and photos
visit: www.deblaze.com/portfolio.htm
www.normanhedman.com
The DeBlaze & Associates PR logo is available at http://www.primezone.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=2888