Months back, I was asked to design compact disc artwork for the Chicago jazz vocalist Jesse Charbonier. I was obviously interested in hearing the record so I could get a vibe for how best to convey the sound visually. The album “Introducing Jesse Charbonier” turned out to be a very cool collection of originals and standards, sung exquisitely by Jesse and backed by a cadre of very impressive musicians. Take this into account along with the fact that sonically the voice and instruments shimmer, and you’ve got a very compelling project that is a joy to listen to over and over (which I am, in fact, doing as I type!)
To give you a taste, here are some clips from the cd, which comes out November 1st.
Jesse is throwing a hell of an event on the night of November 1st. He’s celebrating the release of his cd by playing the material with a live band, accompanied by the Joel Hall Dancers (choreographed by Joel Hall, William Gill, & Jacqueline Sinclair).
Before the music Jesse will be unveiling his directorial debut “Stormy Weather Rhapsody”, a film which “tells the story of a group of professional & aspiring dancers, an up & coming jazz vocalist and an artistic director who are struggling to make a success of themselves despite all the challenges presented to them by friends, family members and the topsy-turvy political atmosphere. Set in modern-day Chicago, this film is based on true experiences of everyday people who dare to dream against all odds. The film features Joel Hall as well as current and past Joel Hall Dancers.”
After the film, music & dance, there will be a post-event reception with complimentary spirits and small bites.
Jesse has been kind enough to offer an autographed compact disc along with two VIP event tickets to one of you, my esteemed readers! Just send an email here to enter the contest. One winner will be selected at random at noon on Wednesday, October 23rd. Good luck and see you at the event!
