We’ve officially begun top secret meetings to begin writing the 2nd Jazz Mafia Symphony. I’ll be filling you in on that as it develops but for now I can say that I’m super excited about the new direction we’re going to be heading in and it’s gonna be mega awesome.

Realistic Orchestra is getting ready for our Annual Michael Jackson Birthday Tribute. This year we managed to fit in two shows, one in the North Bay this Thursday at Hopmonk and a late night show this Saturday at Yoshi’s SF. Both shows sold-out last year so we highly recommend getting advance tix. We’ll be featuring a 20 piece band with the vocals of Joe Bagale, Karyn Paige, Dublin and Chris Mcgee. We’ll also be premiering some new arrangements.

Last week, after a month of recording sessions we finished an album that I’m super proud of, the new project from Grammy Nominated singer Ledesi and producer Chief Xcel (Blackalicious) called Loud Speaker. Chief I wrote/orchestrated strings and horns for many albums in the past year and each time they get better and better. For this one, we went in for the kill – The Jazz mafia Strings and Horns created a wall of sound that will blow your face off and if you’re still standing after that Ledesi’s vocals and Chief’s beats will make sure to leave nothing left. Look for the record towards the end of this year!

Speaking of new recordings have you heard Karyn Paige’s new single “Want to?” You can download it for free at www.karynpaige.com and I highly recommend it. Karyn is gearing up for releasing her new album “The KP EP” on August 31st! The album is produced by Joe Bagale and Matt Berkeley and from what i’ve heard is slammin’.

Last week the horns rocked with Eric Lindell for a few very action packed and crowded shows at Moe’s Alley in Santa Cruz and Pier 23 in San Francisco. We’re so happy to see our longtime friend doing so well, getting radio play all over the country and getting recognized for his great voice, songwriting and personality.

A few more random things; Tonight I’ll be heading over to SOM Bar in the Mission to checkout our good friend’s F.A.M.E. performing their unique blend of live electronics/fat beats/turntablism and all around great music. Also next week some of the Mafia will be at Burning Man including Me, Aima The Dreamer, Uriah Duffy, Shaina Evoniuk and more so HOLLER at me if you know of any good music opportunities, we’re ready to make it happen!