Thug Life Army

Discussions about the uncertain future of jazz in the black community rarely occur in public, but Jazz and Blues greats have known for some time that their core audience consists largely of a white male constituency and few of their own contemporaries.

Most R & B and HipHop artists would agree that the music they perform as well as the contemporary music that they love have some basis in jazz, but few give jazz the credit it deserves.

Could a former DJ finally bridge the gaping divide between a revered art form and a younger urban set with his fresh new spin on modern jazz?

Musician and producer, Shephatiah, not only gives credit to jazz, but he has composed a spectacular 19 track Jazz compilation using the tools of his trade.

“Look Who's Talkin All Dat Jazz” ushers in a new era in modern Jazz. This is an album that harkens back to the free flow of an all out band session where nothing is scripted and musician’s vibe off of each other in spontaneous perfection.

Shephatiah delivers the type of music that is purposefully selected for listening. Tunes on this CD seek out the senses in order to sooth the soul. This album is certain to become a personal favorite amongst jazz collections as well as with new audiences who can appreciate the bass heat that only a DJ can vibe.

Rap consumers are growing up and they are taking a new look at the history of the music they love. In 2004 Rap artist Nas collaborated with his Pops on his latest CD, Street Disciple. One track entitled “Bridging The Gap.” combined honest to goodness back-woods-blues performed by his dad, a renowned Mississippi Blues Man, and rap by Nas. The lyrics told of their father-son relationship, highlighting Nas’ early ties to music.

Internationally there is an emerging Jazz-HipHop connection particularly in Japan where the world often turns for new and hip trends. Weather Americans will admit it or not Japan serves as a litmus for what appeals to youthful counter-cultures worldwide. Careful observers can find the “next thing” in Japan and all indicators point to a new error in Jazz.

Readers may find sample tracks of cool new jazz and more information about “Shephatiah” and “Look Who’s Talking All Dat Jazz” at the Trauma Center Production website: http://www.traumacenterproduction.com/recordcompany/Shephatiah.htm.