Roderick Harper
Urbanbuzzmag.com
By Nigeria Anderson
Music, Life & Sound
Roderick Harper, a jazz and R&B recording artist. He has recorded live with a cast of friends and mentors, including appearances from late piano legend Ellis Marsalis, sax icon Donald Harrison, and vocalist/drummer Jamison Ross. His previous project, Evolving, is both a homecoming and a blank slate for Harper, a return to Jazz and a start from scratch. The songs span the full breadth of his remarkable journey and extraordinary talents. This made a clear path for his current project 2702. 2702 is a no-holds-barred project. Each song is a press forward with a newfound resolve of sound and spirit. Harper’s vocal delivery is vibrant and his sound is a distinctive course through a collection of maturity and growth. 2702 is a personal project. Roderick Harper shows off his talents for sure. You will hear his expressions, through his songwriting, and voice. Although the music culture has changed, Harper’s dedication has brought him to this point of success in his career. Producing this project is a perfect example of Roderick Harper’s innovative mind. It’s his breaking free and making music his way. 2702 is Harper’s sixth release after a hiatus and he has made up for lost time. He reaches deep inside to find his signature sound and I promise you, you are going to enjoy it.
Jumaane (JEW-MAH-KNEE) Smith, trumpeter and vocalist, released his first album I Only Have Eyes For You. Jumaane Smith has grown to be a much sought after trumpeter. He is currently touring promoting his new project I Only Have Eyes For You and will be at Joe’s Pub in New York on November 28th. His collaborations range from pop idols to jazz legends. He’s worked with Stevie Wonder, Quincy Jones, Michael Buble’, Jackie Evancho, Alicia Keys, The Jonas Brothers, Wyclef Jean, Justin Bieber, Diddy, Natalie Cole, James Ingram, Wynton Marsalis, Ravi Coltrane, Chris Botti and many more. In a world of auto tunes, there is a refreshing sound in the air. Sound the trumpet Jumaane Smith is here.