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The music of Carlos Averhoff Jr., blends an authentic combination of Afro-Cuban rhythmic elements and a strong presence of today’s contemporary Jazz language, masterfully painting a landscape of contemporary harmonies and rhythms from his native land, Cuba. A particular element that Carlos brings to his shows is a unique technique he developed named, M.A.R.I (Melodic And Rhythmic Independence) in which he plays a percussive instrument with his left foot while simultaneously playing his saxophone. This element delivers a unique Cuban background and taste in his concerts.
Carlos Averhoff Jr. has performed as both a band leader and side man on stages and Jazz Festivals around the world such as Carnegie Hall, Paris Philharmonic, Jazz At Lincoln Center, ELB Philharmonic, Monterey Jazz Festival, Krakow Philharmonic, Jazz Odd Nowa Jazz festival, Monte-Carlo Sporting Club, Barcelona Jazz Festival, Detroit Jazz Festival, and Irapuato International Jazz Festival, among others. Carlos Averhoff Jr. has played alongside well-known artists from the Jazz and Latin Jazz.
Carlos Averhoff Jr. has played alongside well-known artists from the Jazz and Latin Jazz scenario such as Chucho Valdes & Irakere, Chucho Valdes & La Creacion Yoruba Orchestra, Jazz drummers Louis Hayes, Jimmy Cobb & Bob Moses, Juan De Marcos and The Afro-Cuban All Stars, Cuban drummer Horacio ‘El Negro’ Hernandez; trumpet player Brian Lynch, pianists, Jason Moran, Roberto Fonseca; saxophonists Dave Liebman, and Greg Osby to name a few.
In the US, Carlos Averhoff Jr. graduated with a bachelor’s degree, Summa Cum Laude from Berklee College Of Music, and continued his Master’s studies in Jazz Performance at The New England Conservatory, graduating with honors.
Carlos Averhoff Jr. took instruction from Jazz luminaries Jerry Bergonzi, George Garzone, Ed Tomassi, Frank Tiberi, Greg Osby, Bill Pierce, Terri Lyne Carrington, Joe Lovano, Jason Moran, Cecil McBee, Ran Blake, John McNeil, and Donny McCaslin.
Denise Donatelli, a three-time GRAMMY® nominated vocalist, presents her latest album, “Whistling in the Dark – The Music of Burt Bacharach.” Released on August 27, 2021, this remarkable project showcases Denise’s lifelong love affair with the legendary songwriter’s music. Produced by the renowned Larry Klein, the album marks Denise’s first concept album dedicated to a single composer and highlights her exceptional collaboration with Klein.
Recorded live at The Village Studios in Los Angeles in October 2020, the album captures Denise’s warm vocal elegance accompanied by a hand-picked all-star jazz/pop quartet. The quartet includes Larry Goldings on piano and organ, Anthony Wilson on guitar, Vinnie Colaiuta on drums, and Larry Klein himself on bass and additional keyboards.
“Whistling in the Dark” presents an intimate and soulful collection of Bacharach’s iconic hits, as well as some lesser-known gems. Denise breathes new life into classics like “The Look of Love” and brings her own interpretation to Warwick’s renowned songs such as “Walk On By,” “In Between the Heartaches,” “Anyone Who Had a Heart,” and “A House is Not a Home.” The album also features collaborations with Elvis Costello on poignant tracks like “Toledo” and “In the Darkest Place.”
Denise’s artistic journey leading up to this project has been shaped by her passion for jazz. Growing up in Allentown, PA, she fell in love with the genre, drawing inspiration from vocalists like Nancy Wilson, Sarah Vaughan, Carmen McRae, and Ella Fitzgerald. After launching her singing career in Atlanta in the early 90s, Denise moved to Los Angeles in 2000, immersing herself in the vibrant music community.
Throughout her career, Denise has collaborated with esteemed musicians and earned recognition for her exceptional talent. Her previous albums with producer/pianist Geoffrey Keezer garnered four GRAMMY nominations, including three for Best Jazz Vocal Album. In 2012, she was honored as Jazz Vocalist of the Year by The Los Angeles Jazz Society. Known as a “musician’s singer,” Denise’s innate musicianship and pure tone have captivated audiences and led to various notable performances, including appearances on “The Simpsons” and TV promos for popular shows and brands.
Denise’s connection to the American Heart Association holds a special place in her heart, honoring the memory of her son.
