Here we are well into a new year. Our political climate is just as scarey as ever, if not more. I’m fervently hoping that PEACE will prevail over war, heartache and destruction.

I had some down time in Hawaii – which was lovely. Went to the Big Island – Kona for a few days, then back to Honolulu for our performance at the Academy of Arts with Danny, pianist Jim Howard, bassist Bruce Hamada and drummer Noel Okimodo. It was great to add Noel. He added a lot to whole groove, and the rest of the band sounded wonderful as always. Back to reality – jury duty- (someone’s gotta do it!)

Then to Texas – first Houston’s Sambuca Jazz Club, then to Dallas’ Sambuca (actually the one in Addison. Fun and lively places, nice people and incredible food! Played with Danny, Todd and bassist Gerald Spaits, all swingin and I enjoyed meeting new listeners – THANKS for coming.

On to The Kennedy Center’s Jazz Club and Ram’s Head in Annapolis. Both very good clubs, great crowds and the snow didn’t stop people from coming! Danny, Paul, Bob and Todd sounded great as ever.

Also had a ‘blindfold test’ while there for JazzTimes (May issue I think?). Interesting to see what is chosen and good to hear other artist’s projects. It’s hard to keep current when working and traveling yourself so much.

Back home to NYC and the one of my favorite places – Birdland. Played with Danny, bassist Mark Helias and drummer Ron Vincent. We had a great time. (MORE snow!)

Now it’s to warmer ‘climes’ with the Florida Orchestra with Matt Catingub conducting, looking forward to that.

More later and thank you very much for listening.
Karrin