Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Fred's on the money!

Fred's image graced the currency for volunteers over the weekend at the Hot Times Festival in Columbus, Ohio, where he was the headliner and honored guest on Saturday night.


Many thanks to the festival organizing team, especially Candi "C.L." Watkins, and to Chris Steele of Steele Jazz Entertainment for bringing together a truly hot time. Also thanks to Gail Bernard, who designed the "Fred Bucks."

While in Columbus, Fred also hooked up with his old friend Joshua Sheik, a drummer who is now one half of the soulful duo Wonder Twin Powers, with singer/guitarist/pianist Jenny Flory. The reunion happened at Sonic Lounge Recording Studio, where Fred laid a quick solo on a hot track from the band's forthcoming album.

The last day of his Ohio weekend took Fred to Eastlake, outside Cleveland, for a visit to instrument maker Conn-Selmer. He tried out trombones and got a fascinating tour of the 150,000-square-foot factory located there. Many thanks to Pete Cumming for the tour, and to Mark Gifford -- who Fred met in June at the International Trombone Festival -- for setting it up.

Here are some photos. Enjoy.



Fred with Candi "C. L." Watkins
Fred with Chris Steele
Fred with Wonder Twin Powers
Fred with Sonic Lounge engineer Joe Viers
Fred tries a Conn trombone as Pete Cumming looks on

Saturday, September 7, 2013

Headed for Hot Times

Fred's month includes much Stateside fun including today's Hot Times Festival in Columbus Ohio, three gigs with "Funking for Jamaica" trumpeter Tom Browne, and an appearance at the Pop Montreal Festival with the Bernie Worrell Orchestra.

October 2 will find Fred with his New JBs and Tom Browne at BB King's in New York City. Tickets are on sale now.

Many thanks to all who made last Saturday at Yoshi's in Oakland such a fun night. Enjoy these photos.

Tom and Fred backstage at Yoshi's

Soundcheck at Yoshi's
Backstage with Tom and singer Omega Rae
Backstage with Tom and pianist Rodney Franklin