Charlene Blay and the 2nd Edition are comprised of four very talented
individuals with unique and diverse musical backgrounds.
This 4 piece jazz ensemble
performs a wide range of traditional classics, contemporary
vocal standards and light jazz, including music by Johnny
Mercer and Nat King Cole.
Other influences include Sarah
Vaughn, Billie Holiday, Diana Krall, Rosa Passo, Elaine Ellis,
Dave Brubeck, John Coltrane, Thelonious Monk, as well as pulling
from their Latin and European influences.
Group members have performed and recorded with a variety of well-known
recording artists such as: Joe Farrell, George Benson, The Stylistics,
The Drifters, Buck Trent, Chuck Berry & Tommy Cash.
Charlene Blay's vocals have been compared to the richness of Sarah
Vaughan with the sultriness of Diana Krall. This experienced singer
delivers smooth and flawless vocals that can only be described as a
pleasure to the senses. She was a top club singer in Tokyo, Japan for 10
years.
Sheri Landisman lays down a musical foundation full of range and
dynamics. Inspired by two of her contemporaries Peter Nero & Billy Joel,
this energetic New Yorker delivers exciting piano work showcasing her
ability to blend Latin, jazz, classical & rock into her own style.
Roy Carter adds a deeper dimension to the group with his background in R
& B, jazz and blues, weaving an array of soulful notes between the vocals
and piano. Roy’s saxophone becomes the fusing element that makes the
chemistry work for this ensemble.
Finally, Greg Franzman on drums and percussion creates various rhythmic
styles from jazz to Brazilian Baião. Influenced by drummers such as Art
Blakey, Max Roach, Steve Gadd, and Alex Acuña; Greg applies pulsating textures
by using brushes, mallets and his hands.
Together these
four musicians produce a colorful and rhythmic sound of interpretive
classic standards and light jazz from the 1940's to present day
favorites.
Members of the
group live in Evansville, Indiana, Owensboro and Louisville, Kentucky.
