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In 2016, Jake befriended world-renowned audio engineer Bill Chrysler, and a friendship quickly grew along with the production of Jake’s self-titled debut album, produced by Chrysler himself.
In Bill’s own words, “I have a very high barometer when it comes to contemporary guitar players. I’ve mixed thousands of live shows over the past forty years for guitar heavy artists like John Mayer, Rush, Eric Johnson, Maroon 5 and Ted Nugent to mention a small fraction of my touring career – I am extremely honored and grateful to Jake for sharing his journey with me so far. I am as proud of this recording as anything I have done in over four decades in the music industry.” Jake is now ready to take on the world with his new music and exciting live shows and is coming to a city near you!
Jake has played many large shows and festivals in his short time of touring, including his stint at every show since 2017 at WLAV’s “Blues On The Mall” summer concert series, which is typically held at the DeltaPlex Arena in Grand Rapids, MI. He has also played the Dallas International Guitar Festival, Buddy Guy’s Legends, the WYCE Jammie Awards at The Intersection in Grand Rapids, Buck Lake Ranch, Kalamazoo
State Theater, the Lowell Showboat in Lowell, Michigan, and countless blues festivals across Michigan and beyond.. Jake is even an annual mainstay act in events in Michigan that pull large crowds such as the Rogue River Blues Series in Rockford, Battle Creek Field of Flight, and Perrin Brewing’s Backyard Bashes.
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.
