A talented and adventurous altoist whose career has gone through several phases, John Handy started playing alto in 1949. After moving to New York in 1958, he had a fiery period with Charles Mingus (1958-1959) that resulted in several passionate recordings that show off his originality; he also recorded several dates as a leader for Roulette. Handy led his own bands during 1959-1964, and played with Mingus at the 1964 Monterey Jazz Festival, but it was at the following year's festival that he was a major hit, stretching out with his quintet (which included violinist Michael White and guitarist Jerry Hahn) on two long originals. Soon, Handy was signed to Columbia, where he recorded his finest work (three excellent albums) during 1966-1968…
'Christmas Everyday' is Nils first holiday music album and features both original & traditional songs of the season arranged in a very cool jazzy style that sets it apart from the ordinary Christmas fare. Nils collaborated with many top artists, song writers and musicians to bring us an album that will become a classic holiday collection for many years to come. A popular contemporary jazz guitarist, Nils Jiptner, aka Nils, is a successful solo artist, session player, and instructor, with a groove-based sound influenced by his love of funk and fusion. A native of Munich, Nils first started playing guitar in his teens, inspired by bands like Led Zeppelin and Deep Purple. Later, he discovered funk, jazz, and fusion and began expanding his skills as he investigated the music of Robben Ford, Larry Carlton, and Chic's Nile Rodgers.
Nils' new album entitled 'Play' is a perfect metaphor for his easy going, effortless ability to produce, compose, perform and engineer a 12 track collection of amazing hits. The endless studio hours spent have resulted in a unique yet very commercial sound that crosses into multiple formats. From the opening track 'Coast to Coast' to the sure to be radio single 'Straight Down the Line' and the soulful remake of the George Michael classic hit, 'Careless Whispers', Nils has delivered a collection of evergreen hits to be added to his stellar song catalog. Calling on his musician friends and others to lend an ear and help with the many elements of the production, Nils' chosen lineup has created an album of excellent sound quality and first class musicianship featuring Steve Cole, lead sax and sax solo; Daryl Williams, bass; Oliver C. Brown, percussion; Johnny Britt, keys, trumpet swells and trumpet solo…