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EC3 UNVEILS HIS LATEST PROJECT ENTITLED: "IT'S ALL ABOUT THE RHYTHM"
WASHINGTON , DC . - - March 6, 2013 - -
Media Contact:
Karen Hatchett, Hatchett PR
karen.hatchett@charter.net
770-433-1137
Drummer EC3 Releases New CD: It’s All About The Rhythm
Exciting News For Lovers Of Afro-Cuban, Latin Jazz and Straight Ahead Swing!
Las Vegas, NV --- “Music and life are really all about the groove,” says drummer and bandleader EC3. “You find harmony and it’s good, you get off the beat and it’s challenging. When I was recording the new CD, the foundation was rhythm heavy and we built on that. I was blessed to play with some of the best cats on the east coast. We chose some of the most incredible songs ever written and I arranged them in musical styles from Afro-Cuban and Latin Jazz to straight-ahead swing. It’s All About The Rhythm describes the CD and my philosophy about life.”
EC3’s fresh approach to timeless classics and newly discovered gems infuses them with a vibrancy and new life that will appeal to veteran jazz lovers, swing fans and new audiences. Here’s a little taste of four of the ten tracks you’ll discover on It’s All About The Rhythm.
“Mambo Inn” beautifully embodies Afro-Cuban rhythms. Sensual and inviting, this lively tune by Mario Bauza, Bobby Woodlen and Grace Sampson defies listeners to sit still. “We tried this song out on a sophisticated audience in Reston, Virginia just to see what the reaction would be,” explains EC3. “They were on their feet in seconds. Afterwards an 84-year old lady came up to tell me that she had not danced like that in years!”
The timeless Burt Bacharach and Hal David classic, “Close To You,” goes beyond the expected to redefine this beautiful melody. “I had been toying with the arrangement for some time, but could not get the exact sound that I wanted,” says EC3. “I was on a plane and all of a sudden I had the idea to get Melvin Jones to play it on muted trumpet with a Miles Davis attitude. It was just what I wanted. At the end of the day, it’s my homage to Bacharach. I’d love to play it for him.”
The drum and piano intro sets the exuberant mood of “Overjoyed.” Originally a wistful ballad by Stevie Wonder, in EC3’s hands it’s a defiant declaration of love. “I knew I was taking a chance doing it in a dramatically different way,” he says. “I played a sungo pattern on the drums because I liked the way it fit the melody. Now you can salsa to it.”
“Estate” features smoldering vocals by Laura Sosa. The song by Italian composers Bruno Brighetti and Bruno Martino is a tribute to EC3’s heritage. He was born in Naples, Italy and lived there until he was in his teens. “I asked Laura to sing with us because I was just knocked out by her voice,” he enthuses. “What I didn’t know until we got into the studio was that she speaks several languages including Italian. It was her idea to sing the second part of the song in Italian, which was just fabulous.”
To celebrate the release of It’s All About The Rhythm, audiences will get a chance to hear the new material live when EC3 and his ensemble hit the stage at the famed jazz supper club, Blues Alley in Washington, DC for two shows on March 6. From the very first note, you’ll know you are in for a high-octane good time. Even the most casual jazz listener will be swaying in their seat. In the tradition of Tito Puente and Max Roach, EC3 leaves it all on the stage. Advance tickets are available at www.bluesalley.com.
Drummer and bandleader EC3 is a second generation musician whose father, a noted jazz saxophonist, taught him an appreciation for music and life-long learning. He studied at the Naval Conservatory of Music. A stint in Los Angeles playing in the orchestra for classic musicals like A Chorus Line and Ain’t Misbehavin’ led to a gig with singer Loretta Holloway in her hit Las Vegas revue, opening for acts like Jay Leno, Bill Cosby and Whoopi Goldberg. For 12 years he served as drummer and musical director for Holloway, playing Vegas as well as touring exotic locales like Brazil, Russia, and Japan. Next he joined renowned bassist Al McKibbon’s band in the famed “Bourbon Street Review” at Caesars Palace for five years. Other gigs include working with legends Diahann Carroll and Joe Williams, as well as playing with Harrah’s Lake Tahoe Orchestra and the Las Vegas Symphony. For the last four years he’s toured with his own ensemble. A favorite at festivals, he has graced the stage at The Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival, the Reston Concert Series and the Atlanta Jazz Festival.
EC3’s previous two CDs, My Romance With Rhythms and Her Eyes At Sunset, received critical acclaim and have been played on stations around the globe. “He moves the notes forward with tasty, soulful, bluesy jazz standards,” said Afrikahn Jamah Dayvs of KKUP-FM 91.5, KPFA-FM 94.1 and KRML-FM 94.7 in San Jose. And Carl Anthony of Jazz 91.9 WCLK in Atlanta had this to say, “EC3 finds a carefully crafted playlist to delight the ear.”
Check out EC3’s new column “The Jazz Slant” beginning this spring in the national publication, Slantress Magazine!
It’s All About The Rhythm is available NOW on iTunes and CD Baby. Copies of the CD are available for reviewers upon request. For more information: www.ec3drums.com.
DRUMMER CAFE, BART ELLIOTT, CD REVIEWNASHVILLE, TN. - June 23, 2012 - -
Jun 23, 2012
Ernest (EC3) Coleman: "Her Eyes At Sunset"
Written by Bart Elliott
Her Eyes at Sunset, released, March 25, 2011 on Rhythm Universal Records, is the second CD by jazz artist, drummer and bandleader, Ernest "EC3" Coleman.
EC3 Coleman is a veteran in the jazz music industry, drumming behind such greats as Joe Williams, Al McKibbon, Kenny Burrell, George Cables, Laurindo Almeida, Vince Falcone (Frank Sinatra's conductor), Diahann Carroll, Vic Damone, Kevin Toney, and Billy Cosby, to name a few. Besides being the music director for songstress, Loretta Holloway, for the last 13+ years, Coleman has performed with the Las Vegas Symphony Orchestra, Caesars Palace Orchestra, Lake Tahoe Harrah's Orchestra, and the Reno Harrah's Orchestra.
REVIEW
Her Eyes At Sunset takes a straight-ahead jazz album approach, nine standards and two original tunes, featuring Ernest EC3 Coleman on drums/percussion, with additional percussion by Jose (Bam Bam) Ramirez, Rafael Pereira, and Clynt Hyson who also handled some vocal duties as well as directing and arranging. Other personnel include Jose Manuel Garcia on piano, Craig Shaw on bass, Sam Skelton on tenor sax and flute, Leonardo Oporto on acoustic guitar, with Chantae Cann and Alex Lattimore on vocals.
Jazz standards include: "The Night Has A Thousand Eyes" (Brainin/Bernier), "They Can't Take That Away From Me" (Gershwin), "Waters Of March" (Jobim), "It's About Time" (Carter), "Estrada Branca" (Jobim), "Pure Imagination" (Bricusse/Newley), "Quinta Anauco" (Romero), and "Blue in Green" (Davis); "Waters Of March" is performed with vocals and as an instrumental. The two originals, "Her Eyes At Sunset" and "Sharon's Song (Her Tears)" were both written and arranged by Ernest EC3 Coleman; title track co-written by Richard Owens.
Her Eyes At Sunset has a lot of tasty playing and nice arrangements throughout. EC3 demonstrates his prowess on the drums, making use of a variety of striking apparatus (sticks/brushes/mallets) over a variety of tempos and styles; up-tempo and medium swing, ballads and Latin-jazz.
Sonically, the studio performances were recorded okay, although I didn't care for the extraneous background sounds (e.g. squeaking drum throne, drum hardware rattles).
Recommended for music listeners who prefer jazz that doesn't get too 'outside' — or pushing the boundaries harmonically or rhythmically.
"EC3 & FRIENDS PERFORM FOR THE DIGNITARIES IN THE NATION'S CAPITAL"
EC's performance for "Health Volunteers for Overseas" in downtown DC, was and overwhelming success!! EC3 & Friends played for such noted dignitaries as: Ambassadors from Tanzania, Mongolia and Cameroon, Representatives from the Embassy of South Africa (the Deputy Chief of Mission) and Honduras (the Minister for Economic and Trade Affairs).
Tirana Jazz Radio
Bledar Sema, Impuls shpk, Rr. "Donika Kastrioti"", Tirana/ Albania
http://www.tiranajazzradio.com
Of all the new entries in Tirana Jazz Radio’s musical archive the most distinguished is definitely Ernest Coleman. When we listened to his music we felt sorry we had not contacted him before.
We think that his album “Her Eyes At Sunset” has the music that every radio needs in its’ repertoire. In it you may find rhythms, harmony, techniques, melody and artistic sensitiveness every listener would indulge into.
Mr. Coleman’s performance enwraps in a velvety smoothness not only the performance of the other artists but also the listener itself, with the confidence of a perfectionist and yet conveying every bit of the romance that the album promises in its title.
With its’ colorful rhythms, “Her Eyes At Sunset” lands you in many different places, places that Mr. Coleman thought we would like to experience, through his music.
After we had an opportunity to listen the CD and shared our impressions we decided in unison that Mr. Coleman deserves a place in the “Drummers Realm”.
Tirana Jazz Radio wishes to thank Mr. Coleman for the pleasure his music gives to our listeners!
Tirana Jazz Radio Team
12/15/2011
-------------------------------------------------------
Notorious Jazz
Ernest “EC3” Coleman – Her Eyes At Sunset
The title “Her Eyes At Sunset” ambiguously defines the listener’s journey. At first glance, Mr. Coleman’s choice of tunes appears to be indiscriminate, however, upon closer inspection one finds a carefully crafted playlist to delight the ear.
Ernest’s point of embarkation is a driving tempo with the title theme from the 1948 film The Night Has a Thousand Eyes, and yet, it is not surprising that he follows with the Gershwin’s They Can’t Take That Away From Me from the 1937 Astaire/Rogers vehicle Shall We Dance, done refreshingly as a quiet ballad. Combining the Latin rhythms of Jobim’s Waters of March, Romero’s Quinta Anauco and his original title track with the delivery of Chantae Cann on Estrada Branca is a happy madness.
The arrangement of Blue In Green is unprecedented as is the well-executed bass on the Bricusse/Newley composition Pure Imagination. If homework is a prerequisite for testing the musicianship of this excellent assemblage of players and voices, this project raises the bar of the listening experience, and thus so, is no stranger to my Serenade To The City playlist.
Carl Anthony
Notoroius Jazz Serenade To The City
Jazz 91.9FM WCLK
-------------------------------------------------------
Jazz Evangelist, J. Scott Fugate, reported the following: “EC, you rocked it last night, and comments from the crowd ranged from "best music I've heard in ages" to "best band I've seen at Churchill!" “I listened to the CD on the way home - and EVERY track is a winner.”
-------------------------------------------------------
LBMO-Latin Beat Magazine
Rudy Mangual, PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF REVIEWS
ERNEST "EC3" COLEMAN & FRIENDS
My Romance with Rhythms
(Rhythm Universal Records)
Las Vegas-based drummer Ernest "EC3" Coleman unveils his debut bandleading production titled My Romance with Rhythms, showcasing his percussive flair and passion for jazz with a Latin vibe. In the good company of musical director Clint Hyson and talented friends Stanyos Young (keyboard), Kenneth Muhammad (bass), Manny "Manolo" Martinez (percussion), Willie Baez and Milkshake (trumpets), EC3 delivers a well-balanced repertoire of originals and classics, with the main emphasis on rhythm.
Speaking of rhythms, EC3 and Manolo Martnez shine on several drum interludes (please refer to The Ugly Face and Carlito's Way, in addition to the Herbie Hancock composition Butterfly and the adaptation of the Tito Puente signature track Oye Cmo Va (EC3 is Back!). Featured lead vocalists include Erica Christina-Little, Ayana White, Ursula Relaford, Clint Hyson and Willyton.
Rudy Mangual
Publisher Editor in Chief
-------------------------------------------------------
KUNV-UNLV-Las Vegas NV
Kim Linzy, PROGRAM DIRECTOR
CD REVIEW
My Romance with Rhythms
Ernest EC3 Coleman & Friends - Rhythm Universal Records, 2009
Ernest EC3 Coleman embraces the warm rhythms of Latin Jazz with his versatile new release My Romance with Rhythms. From the very first track Heaven, the sound of Mr. Colemans pulsating drums are in the pocket with electrifying Latin flair. However, as a band leader/drummer, Mr. Coleman is does not exude a forceful style of playing, but exhales his band with succulent rhythms. The repertoire of songs on My Romance with Rhythms has original compositions that speak to the spirit like Drum Interlude (The Ugly Face) where Mr. Coleman on drums has an impromptu moment with percussionist Manny Manolo Martinez, totally unscripted and capturing a rhythmic banter between the two.
My Romance with Rhythms revisits a Rodgers and Harts classic standard, Over the Rainbow that has never sounded so good. The song features legendary jazz guitarist Joe Lano, and vocalist Ursula Relaford, transforming the standard into blissfulness with up-tempo samba panache. On Burt Bacharachs The Look of Love/Modal Seduction, Ayana White sings with passion, and a very seductive quality that compliments the popular tune.
A personal favorite is Herbie Hancocks Butterfly enriched by wonderful Latin beats with a touch of soulfulness, outstanding arrangements on this contemporary classic. My Romance with Rhythms possesses the compelling elements of a great recording that is sure to please the musical taste of many. Enjoy, and add some spice to your life!!
Reviewed by: Kim Linzy (Music Director) for KUNV 91.5, Las Vegas
-------------------------------------------------------
WHLI
Paul Richards
“My Romance With Rhythms” is one of the most aptly named albums ever. Because when you listen to it, you can easily tell the degree to which Ernest Coleman & Friends fully embrace the various rhythms used throughout the CD. The album is a whirlwind of sound. Sounds of all sorts. But all with a common thread. Yes, just like it says on the cover, this is jazz with a Latin vibe. On my radio station, WHLI in Long island, NY, we’ve adopted the lead track “Heaven” as our new current instrumental favorite. Take a listen to it and if you too don’t become addicted to its acoustic bassline and melody. From there get ready for a rollercoaster of a ride through the different musical journeys “EC3” takes us through. It’s a
non-stop beat driven path we take right to the very unique rendition of the classic “Oye Como Va” which wraps up the album. This is both a great listening album and a wonderful driving album if you happen to be out on the open road. I highly recommend it.
Paul Richards
WHLI Program Director
234 Airport Plaza - Suite 5
Farmingdale, NY 11735
631 770-4200 ext. 311
PRichards@liradiogroup.com
-------------------------------------------------------
JS108Atlanta.com
Greg Fitzgerald
Ernest “EC3” Coleman's debut CD “My Romance with Rhythms” sleighed me from the moment I popped the CD in my car with a moving melody masterpiece called “Heaven“ to an awe-inspiring rendition of Oye Como Va.
EC is a genius and poet behind the drums, and together with an ensemble of extraordinary talent captured the essence of “My Romance with Rhythms”. It’s no surprise that stations are adding it across the country. Essential listening for lovers of jazz with a Latin vibe. It was all-good!
Greg Fitzgerald
JS108atlanta.com/
Former morning show host
WJZZ, Atlanta
-------------------------------------------------------
Jazz Bassist-Brad Bobo
I recall sometime back in the early eighties; I got a call to do a casual gig. I met the guys in the band but I don't remember anybody's name until I hear you play. We started the set out and immediately my eyes perked up, and a smile came on my face. The drummer was playing with the kind of intensity that I love! I knew we were going to have a great gig. That drummer was Ernest "EC3" Coleman. I had to have him in my band along with Kevin Toney on keyboards and Charlie Owens on sax. That quartet played so deep I was surprised whenever the clubs would call us back!
Later I became the musical director for Loretta Holloway and had the pleasure of writing and conducting for every major casino orchestra in the US. Again, I called on "EC3" to handle the drums. He was as comfortable as an old shoe and made the orchestra "groove". That's not easy.
I enjoy listening to Ernest's debut CD and recommend you to take a listen. His dedication for his music shines brightly through. I have been a professional musician for 44 years and have played with some of the best drummers in the world. "EC3" is one of them. It's always an honor to join him on stage. As every good bassist knows.... ya gotta have the right drummer! "EC3" is it!
Brad Bobo
-------------------------------------------------------
WHLI
Paul Richards
“My Romance With Rhythms” is one of the most aptly named albums ever. Because when you listen to it, you can easily tell the degree to which Ernest Coleman & Friends fully embrace the various rhythms used throughout the CD. The album is a whirlwind of sound. Sounds of all sorts. But all with a common thread. Yes, just like it says on the cover, this is jazz with a Latin vibe. On my radio station, WHLI in Long island, NY, we’ve adopted the lead track “Heaven” as our new current instrumental favorite. Take a listen to it and if you too don’t become addicted to its acoustic bassline and melody. From there get ready for a rollercoaster of a ride through the different musical journeys “EC3” takes us through. It’s a
non-stop beat driven path we take right to the very unique rendition of the classic “Oye Como Va” which wraps up the album. This is both a great listening album and a wonderful driving album if you happen to be out on the open road. I highly recommend it.
Paul Richards
WHLI Program Director
234 Airport Plaza - Suite 5
Farmingdale, NY 11735
631 770-4200 ext. 311
PRichards@liradiogroup.com
-------------------------------------------------------
Vegas Conductor-Jack Eglash
Jack Eglash
ERNEST IS WHAT I CALL A CONDUCTOR’S DRUMMER AND WHAT I MEAN BY THAT IS HE MAKES MY JOB VERY EASY. I REMEMBER WORKING WITH ERNEST AND THINKING WOW THIS IS LIKE CRUISE CONTROL. HE PLAYED SO SMOOTH AND WITH SUCH TECHNIQUE, BUT YET STILL TOOK CONTROL OF THE ORCHESTRA, PAID ATTENTION TO DYNAMICS AND KNEW JUST WHEN TO BURN. I LOVE THIS KID.
JACK EGLASH
-------------------------------------------------------
LBMO-Latin Beat Magazine
Rudy Mangual, PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF REVIEWS
ERNEST "EC3" COLEMAN & FRIENDS
My Romance with Rhythms
(Rhythm Universal Records)
Las Vegas-based drummer Ernest "EC3" Coleman unveils his debut bandleading production titled My Romance with Rhythms, showcasing his percussive flair and passion for jazz with a Latin vibe. In the good company of musical director Clint Hyson and talented friends Stanyos Young (keyboard), Kenneth Muhammad (bass), Manny "Manolo" Martinez (percussion), Willie Baez and Milkshake (trumpets), EC3 delivers a well-balanced repertoire of originals and classics, with the main emphasis on rhythm.
Speaking of rhythms, EC3 and Manolo Martnez shine on several drum interludes (please refer to The Ugly Face and Carlito's Way, in addition to the Herbie Hancock composition Butterfly and the adaptation of the Tito Puente signature track Oye Cmo Va (EC3 is Back!). Featured lead vocalists include Erica Christina-Little, Ayana White, Ursula Relaford, Clint Hyson and Willyton.
Rudy Mangual
Publisher Editor in Chief
-------------------------------------------------------
WHLI
Paul Richards
“My Romance With Rhythms” is one of the most aptly named albums ever. Because when you listen to it, you can easily tell the degree to which Ernest Coleman & Friends fully embrace the various rhythms used throughout the CD. The album is a whirlwind of sound. Sounds of all sorts. But all with a common thread. Yes, just like it says on the cover, this is jazz with a Latin vibe. On my radio station, WHLI in Long island, NY, we’ve adopted the lead track “Heaven” as our new current instrumental favorite. Take a listen to it and if you too don’t become addicted to its acoustic bassline and melody. From there get ready for a rollercoaster of a ride through the different musical journeys “EC3” takes us through. It’s a
non-stop beat driven path we take right to the very unique rendition of the classic “Oye Como Va” which wraps up the album. This is both a great listening album and a wonderful driving album if you happen to be out on the open road. I highly recommend it.
Paul Richards
WHLI Program Director
234 Airport Plaza - Suite 5
Farmingdale, NY 11735
631 770-4200 ext. 311
PRichards@liradiogroup.com
-------------------------------------------------------
JS108Atlanta.com
Greg Fitzgerald
Ernest “EC3” Coleman's debut CD “My Romance with Rhythms” sleighed me from the moment I popped the CD in my car with a moving melody masterpiece called “Heaven“ to an awe-inspiring rendition of Oye Como Va.
EC is a genius and poet behind the drums, and together with an ensemble of extraordinary talent captured the essence of “My Romance with Rhythms”. It’s no surprise that stations are adding it across the country. Essential listening for lovers of jazz with a Latin vibe. It was all-good!
Greg Fitzgerald
JS108atlanta.com/
Former morning show host
WJZZ, Atlanta
-------------------------------------------------------
Karen Hatchett, Hatchett PR
karen.hatchett@charter.net
770-433-1137
Drummer EC3 Releases New CD: It’s All About The Rhythm
Exciting News For Lovers Of Afro-Cuban, Latin Jazz and Straight Ahead Swing!
Las Vegas, NV --- “Music and life are really all about the groove,” says drummer and bandleader EC3. “You find harmony and it’s good, you get off the beat and it’s challenging. When I was recording the new CD, the foundation was rhythm heavy and we built on that. I was blessed to play with some of the best cats on the east coast. We chose some of the most incredible songs ever written and I arranged them in musical styles from Afro-Cuban and Latin Jazz to straight-ahead swing. It’s All About The Rhythm describes the CD and my philosophy about life.”
EC3’s fresh approach to timeless classics and newly discovered gems infuses them with a vibrancy and new life that will appeal to veteran jazz lovers, swing fans and new audiences. Here’s a little taste of four of the ten tracks you’ll discover on It’s All About The Rhythm.
“Mambo Inn” beautifully embodies Afro-Cuban rhythms. Sensual and inviting, this lively tune by Mario Bauza, Bobby Woodlen and Grace Sampson defies listeners to sit still. “We tried this song out on a sophisticated audience in Reston, Virginia just to see what the reaction would be,” explains EC3. “They were on their feet in seconds. Afterwards an 84-year old lady came up to tell me that she had not danced like that in years!”
The timeless Burt Bacharach and Hal David classic, “Close To You,” goes beyond the expected to redefine this beautiful melody. “I had been toying with the arrangement for some time, but could not get the exact sound that I wanted,” says EC3. “I was on a plane and all of a sudden I had the idea to get Melvin Jones to play it on muted trumpet with a Miles Davis attitude. It was just what I wanted. At the end of the day, it’s my homage to Bacharach. I’d love to play it for him.”
The drum and piano intro sets the exuberant mood of “Overjoyed.” Originally a wistful ballad by Stevie Wonder, in EC3’s hands it’s a defiant declaration of love. “I knew I was taking a chance doing it in a dramatically different way,” he says. “I played a sungo pattern on the drums because I liked the way it fit the melody. Now you can salsa to it.”
“Estate” features smoldering vocals by Laura Sosa. The song by Italian composers Bruno Brighetti and Bruno Martino is a tribute to EC3’s heritage. He was born in Naples, Italy and lived there until he was in his teens. “I asked Laura to sing with us because I was just knocked out by her voice,” he enthuses. “What I didn’t know until we got into the studio was that she speaks several languages including Italian. It was her idea to sing the second part of the song in Italian, which was just fabulous.”
To celebrate the release of It’s All About The Rhythm, audiences will get a chance to hear the new material live when EC3 and his ensemble hit the stage at the famed jazz supper club, Blues Alley in Washington, DC for two shows on March 6. From the very first note, you’ll know you are in for a high-octane good time. Even the most casual jazz listener will be swaying in their seat. In the tradition of Tito Puente and Max Roach, EC3 leaves it all on the stage. Advance tickets are available at www.bluesalley.com.
Drummer and bandleader EC3 is a second generation musician whose father, a noted jazz saxophonist, taught him an appreciation for music and life-long learning. He studied at the Naval Conservatory of Music. A stint in Los Angeles playing in the orchestra for classic musicals like A Chorus Line and Ain’t Misbehavin’ led to a gig with singer Loretta Holloway in her hit Las Vegas revue, opening for acts like Jay Leno, Bill Cosby and Whoopi Goldberg. For 12 years he served as drummer and musical director for Holloway, playing Vegas as well as touring exotic locales like Brazil, Russia, and Japan. Next he joined renowned bassist Al McKibbon’s band in the famed “Bourbon Street Review” at Caesars Palace for five years. Other gigs include working with legends Diahann Carroll and Joe Williams, as well as playing with Harrah’s Lake Tahoe Orchestra and the Las Vegas Symphony. For the last four years he’s toured with his own ensemble. A favorite at festivals, he has graced the stage at The Mid-Atlantic Jazz Festival, the Reston Concert Series and the Atlanta Jazz Festival.
EC3’s previous two CDs, My Romance With Rhythms and Her Eyes At Sunset, received critical acclaim and have been played on stations around the globe. “He moves the notes forward with tasty, soulful, bluesy jazz standards,” said Afrikahn Jamah Dayvs of KKUP-FM 91.5, KPFA-FM 94.1 and KRML-FM 94.7 in San Jose. And Carl Anthony of Jazz 91.9 WCLK in Atlanta had this to say, “EC3 finds a carefully crafted playlist to delight the ear.”
Check out EC3’s new column “The Jazz Slant” beginning this spring in the national publication, Slantress Magazine!
It’s All About The Rhythm is available NOW on iTunes and CD Baby. Copies of the CD are available for reviewers upon request. For more information: www.ec3drums.com.
DRUMMER CAFE, BART ELLIOTT, CD REVIEWNASHVILLE, TN. - June 23, 2012 - -
Jun 23, 2012
Ernest (EC3) Coleman: "Her Eyes At Sunset"
Written by Bart Elliott
Her Eyes at Sunset, released, March 25, 2011 on Rhythm Universal Records, is the second CD by jazz artist, drummer and bandleader, Ernest "EC3" Coleman.
EC3 Coleman is a veteran in the jazz music industry, drumming behind such greats as Joe Williams, Al McKibbon, Kenny Burrell, George Cables, Laurindo Almeida, Vince Falcone (Frank Sinatra's conductor), Diahann Carroll, Vic Damone, Kevin Toney, and Billy Cosby, to name a few. Besides being the music director for songstress, Loretta Holloway, for the last 13+ years, Coleman has performed with the Las Vegas Symphony Orchestra, Caesars Palace Orchestra, Lake Tahoe Harrah's Orchestra, and the Reno Harrah's Orchestra.
REVIEW
Her Eyes At Sunset takes a straight-ahead jazz album approach, nine standards and two original tunes, featuring Ernest EC3 Coleman on drums/percussion, with additional percussion by Jose (Bam Bam) Ramirez, Rafael Pereira, and Clynt Hyson who also handled some vocal duties as well as directing and arranging. Other personnel include Jose Manuel Garcia on piano, Craig Shaw on bass, Sam Skelton on tenor sax and flute, Leonardo Oporto on acoustic guitar, with Chantae Cann and Alex Lattimore on vocals.
Jazz standards include: "The Night Has A Thousand Eyes" (Brainin/Bernier), "They Can't Take That Away From Me" (Gershwin), "Waters Of March" (Jobim), "It's About Time" (Carter), "Estrada Branca" (Jobim), "Pure Imagination" (Bricusse/Newley), "Quinta Anauco" (Romero), and "Blue in Green" (Davis); "Waters Of March" is performed with vocals and as an instrumental. The two originals, "Her Eyes At Sunset" and "Sharon's Song (Her Tears)" were both written and arranged by Ernest EC3 Coleman; title track co-written by Richard Owens.
Her Eyes At Sunset has a lot of tasty playing and nice arrangements throughout. EC3 demonstrates his prowess on the drums, making use of a variety of striking apparatus (sticks/brushes/mallets) over a variety of tempos and styles; up-tempo and medium swing, ballads and Latin-jazz.
Sonically, the studio performances were recorded okay, although I didn't care for the extraneous background sounds (e.g. squeaking drum throne, drum hardware rattles).
Recommended for music listeners who prefer jazz that doesn't get too 'outside' — or pushing the boundaries harmonically or rhythmically.
"EC3 & FRIENDS PERFORM FOR THE DIGNITARIES IN THE NATION'S CAPITAL"
EC's performance for "Health Volunteers for Overseas" in downtown DC, was and overwhelming success!! EC3 & Friends played for such noted dignitaries as: Ambassadors from Tanzania, Mongolia and Cameroon, Representatives from the Embassy of South Africa (the Deputy Chief of Mission) and Honduras (the Minister for Economic and Trade Affairs).
Tirana Jazz Radio
Bledar Sema, Impuls shpk, Rr. "Donika Kastrioti"", Tirana/ Albania
http://www.tiranajazzradio.com
Of all the new entries in Tirana Jazz Radio’s musical archive the most distinguished is definitely Ernest Coleman. When we listened to his music we felt sorry we had not contacted him before.
We think that his album “Her Eyes At Sunset” has the music that every radio needs in its’ repertoire. In it you may find rhythms, harmony, techniques, melody and artistic sensitiveness every listener would indulge into.
Mr. Coleman’s performance enwraps in a velvety smoothness not only the performance of the other artists but also the listener itself, with the confidence of a perfectionist and yet conveying every bit of the romance that the album promises in its title.
With its’ colorful rhythms, “Her Eyes At Sunset” lands you in many different places, places that Mr. Coleman thought we would like to experience, through his music.
After we had an opportunity to listen the CD and shared our impressions we decided in unison that Mr. Coleman deserves a place in the “Drummers Realm”.
Tirana Jazz Radio wishes to thank Mr. Coleman for the pleasure his music gives to our listeners!
Tirana Jazz Radio Team
12/15/2011
-------------------------------------------------------
Notorious Jazz
Ernest “EC3” Coleman – Her Eyes At Sunset
The title “Her Eyes At Sunset” ambiguously defines the listener’s journey. At first glance, Mr. Coleman’s choice of tunes appears to be indiscriminate, however, upon closer inspection one finds a carefully crafted playlist to delight the ear.
Ernest’s point of embarkation is a driving tempo with the title theme from the 1948 film The Night Has a Thousand Eyes, and yet, it is not surprising that he follows with the Gershwin’s They Can’t Take That Away From Me from the 1937 Astaire/Rogers vehicle Shall We Dance, done refreshingly as a quiet ballad. Combining the Latin rhythms of Jobim’s Waters of March, Romero’s Quinta Anauco and his original title track with the delivery of Chantae Cann on Estrada Branca is a happy madness.
The arrangement of Blue In Green is unprecedented as is the well-executed bass on the Bricusse/Newley composition Pure Imagination. If homework is a prerequisite for testing the musicianship of this excellent assemblage of players and voices, this project raises the bar of the listening experience, and thus so, is no stranger to my Serenade To The City playlist.
Carl Anthony
Notoroius Jazz Serenade To The City
Jazz 91.9FM WCLK
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Jazz Evangelist, J. Scott Fugate, reported the following: “EC, you rocked it last night, and comments from the crowd ranged from "best music I've heard in ages" to "best band I've seen at Churchill!" “I listened to the CD on the way home - and EVERY track is a winner.”
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LBMO-Latin Beat Magazine
Rudy Mangual, PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF REVIEWS
ERNEST "EC3" COLEMAN & FRIENDS
My Romance with Rhythms
(Rhythm Universal Records)
Las Vegas-based drummer Ernest "EC3" Coleman unveils his debut bandleading production titled My Romance with Rhythms, showcasing his percussive flair and passion for jazz with a Latin vibe. In the good company of musical director Clint Hyson and talented friends Stanyos Young (keyboard), Kenneth Muhammad (bass), Manny "Manolo" Martinez (percussion), Willie Baez and Milkshake (trumpets), EC3 delivers a well-balanced repertoire of originals and classics, with the main emphasis on rhythm.
Speaking of rhythms, EC3 and Manolo Martnez shine on several drum interludes (please refer to The Ugly Face and Carlito's Way, in addition to the Herbie Hancock composition Butterfly and the adaptation of the Tito Puente signature track Oye Cmo Va (EC3 is Back!). Featured lead vocalists include Erica Christina-Little, Ayana White, Ursula Relaford, Clint Hyson and Willyton.
Rudy Mangual
Publisher Editor in Chief
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KUNV-UNLV-Las Vegas NV
Kim Linzy, PROGRAM DIRECTOR
CD REVIEW
My Romance with Rhythms
Ernest EC3 Coleman & Friends - Rhythm Universal Records, 2009
Ernest EC3 Coleman embraces the warm rhythms of Latin Jazz with his versatile new release My Romance with Rhythms. From the very first track Heaven, the sound of Mr. Colemans pulsating drums are in the pocket with electrifying Latin flair. However, as a band leader/drummer, Mr. Coleman is does not exude a forceful style of playing, but exhales his band with succulent rhythms. The repertoire of songs on My Romance with Rhythms has original compositions that speak to the spirit like Drum Interlude (The Ugly Face) where Mr. Coleman on drums has an impromptu moment with percussionist Manny Manolo Martinez, totally unscripted and capturing a rhythmic banter between the two.
My Romance with Rhythms revisits a Rodgers and Harts classic standard, Over the Rainbow that has never sounded so good. The song features legendary jazz guitarist Joe Lano, and vocalist Ursula Relaford, transforming the standard into blissfulness with up-tempo samba panache. On Burt Bacharachs The Look of Love/Modal Seduction, Ayana White sings with passion, and a very seductive quality that compliments the popular tune.
A personal favorite is Herbie Hancocks Butterfly enriched by wonderful Latin beats with a touch of soulfulness, outstanding arrangements on this contemporary classic. My Romance with Rhythms possesses the compelling elements of a great recording that is sure to please the musical taste of many. Enjoy, and add some spice to your life!!
Reviewed by: Kim Linzy (Music Director) for KUNV 91.5, Las Vegas
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WHLI
Paul Richards
“My Romance With Rhythms” is one of the most aptly named albums ever. Because when you listen to it, you can easily tell the degree to which Ernest Coleman & Friends fully embrace the various rhythms used throughout the CD. The album is a whirlwind of sound. Sounds of all sorts. But all with a common thread. Yes, just like it says on the cover, this is jazz with a Latin vibe. On my radio station, WHLI in Long island, NY, we’ve adopted the lead track “Heaven” as our new current instrumental favorite. Take a listen to it and if you too don’t become addicted to its acoustic bassline and melody. From there get ready for a rollercoaster of a ride through the different musical journeys “EC3” takes us through. It’s a
non-stop beat driven path we take right to the very unique rendition of the classic “Oye Como Va” which wraps up the album. This is both a great listening album and a wonderful driving album if you happen to be out on the open road. I highly recommend it.
Paul Richards
WHLI Program Director
234 Airport Plaza - Suite 5
Farmingdale, NY 11735
631 770-4200 ext. 311
PRichards@liradiogroup.com
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JS108Atlanta.com
Greg Fitzgerald
Ernest “EC3” Coleman's debut CD “My Romance with Rhythms” sleighed me from the moment I popped the CD in my car with a moving melody masterpiece called “Heaven“ to an awe-inspiring rendition of Oye Como Va.
EC is a genius and poet behind the drums, and together with an ensemble of extraordinary talent captured the essence of “My Romance with Rhythms”. It’s no surprise that stations are adding it across the country. Essential listening for lovers of jazz with a Latin vibe. It was all-good!
Greg Fitzgerald
JS108atlanta.com/
Former morning show host
WJZZ, Atlanta
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Jazz Bassist-Brad Bobo
I recall sometime back in the early eighties; I got a call to do a casual gig. I met the guys in the band but I don't remember anybody's name until I hear you play. We started the set out and immediately my eyes perked up, and a smile came on my face. The drummer was playing with the kind of intensity that I love! I knew we were going to have a great gig. That drummer was Ernest "EC3" Coleman. I had to have him in my band along with Kevin Toney on keyboards and Charlie Owens on sax. That quartet played so deep I was surprised whenever the clubs would call us back!
Later I became the musical director for Loretta Holloway and had the pleasure of writing and conducting for every major casino orchestra in the US. Again, I called on "EC3" to handle the drums. He was as comfortable as an old shoe and made the orchestra "groove". That's not easy.
I enjoy listening to Ernest's debut CD and recommend you to take a listen. His dedication for his music shines brightly through. I have been a professional musician for 44 years and have played with some of the best drummers in the world. "EC3" is one of them. It's always an honor to join him on stage. As every good bassist knows.... ya gotta have the right drummer! "EC3" is it!
Brad Bobo
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WHLI
Paul Richards
“My Romance With Rhythms” is one of the most aptly named albums ever. Because when you listen to it, you can easily tell the degree to which Ernest Coleman & Friends fully embrace the various rhythms used throughout the CD. The album is a whirlwind of sound. Sounds of all sorts. But all with a common thread. Yes, just like it says on the cover, this is jazz with a Latin vibe. On my radio station, WHLI in Long island, NY, we’ve adopted the lead track “Heaven” as our new current instrumental favorite. Take a listen to it and if you too don’t become addicted to its acoustic bassline and melody. From there get ready for a rollercoaster of a ride through the different musical journeys “EC3” takes us through. It’s a
non-stop beat driven path we take right to the very unique rendition of the classic “Oye Como Va” which wraps up the album. This is both a great listening album and a wonderful driving album if you happen to be out on the open road. I highly recommend it.
Paul Richards
WHLI Program Director
234 Airport Plaza - Suite 5
Farmingdale, NY 11735
631 770-4200 ext. 311
PRichards@liradiogroup.com
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Vegas Conductor-Jack Eglash
Jack Eglash
ERNEST IS WHAT I CALL A CONDUCTOR’S DRUMMER AND WHAT I MEAN BY THAT IS HE MAKES MY JOB VERY EASY. I REMEMBER WORKING WITH ERNEST AND THINKING WOW THIS IS LIKE CRUISE CONTROL. HE PLAYED SO SMOOTH AND WITH SUCH TECHNIQUE, BUT YET STILL TOOK CONTROL OF THE ORCHESTRA, PAID ATTENTION TO DYNAMICS AND KNEW JUST WHEN TO BURN. I LOVE THIS KID.
JACK EGLASH
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LBMO-Latin Beat Magazine
Rudy Mangual, PUBLISHER/EDITOR IN CHIEF REVIEWS
ERNEST "EC3" COLEMAN & FRIENDS
My Romance with Rhythms
(Rhythm Universal Records)
Las Vegas-based drummer Ernest "EC3" Coleman unveils his debut bandleading production titled My Romance with Rhythms, showcasing his percussive flair and passion for jazz with a Latin vibe. In the good company of musical director Clint Hyson and talented friends Stanyos Young (keyboard), Kenneth Muhammad (bass), Manny "Manolo" Martinez (percussion), Willie Baez and Milkshake (trumpets), EC3 delivers a well-balanced repertoire of originals and classics, with the main emphasis on rhythm.
Speaking of rhythms, EC3 and Manolo Martnez shine on several drum interludes (please refer to The Ugly Face and Carlito's Way, in addition to the Herbie Hancock composition Butterfly and the adaptation of the Tito Puente signature track Oye Cmo Va (EC3 is Back!). Featured lead vocalists include Erica Christina-Little, Ayana White, Ursula Relaford, Clint Hyson and Willyton.
Rudy Mangual
Publisher Editor in Chief
-------------------------------------------------------
WHLI
Paul Richards
“My Romance With Rhythms” is one of the most aptly named albums ever. Because when you listen to it, you can easily tell the degree to which Ernest Coleman & Friends fully embrace the various rhythms used throughout the CD. The album is a whirlwind of sound. Sounds of all sorts. But all with a common thread. Yes, just like it says on the cover, this is jazz with a Latin vibe. On my radio station, WHLI in Long island, NY, we’ve adopted the lead track “Heaven” as our new current instrumental favorite. Take a listen to it and if you too don’t become addicted to its acoustic bassline and melody. From there get ready for a rollercoaster of a ride through the different musical journeys “EC3” takes us through. It’s a
non-stop beat driven path we take right to the very unique rendition of the classic “Oye Como Va” which wraps up the album. This is both a great listening album and a wonderful driving album if you happen to be out on the open road. I highly recommend it.
Paul Richards
WHLI Program Director
234 Airport Plaza - Suite 5
Farmingdale, NY 11735
631 770-4200 ext. 311
PRichards@liradiogroup.com
-------------------------------------------------------
JS108Atlanta.com
Greg Fitzgerald
Ernest “EC3” Coleman's debut CD “My Romance with Rhythms” sleighed me from the moment I popped the CD in my car with a moving melody masterpiece called “Heaven“ to an awe-inspiring rendition of Oye Como Va.
EC is a genius and poet behind the drums, and together with an ensemble of extraordinary talent captured the essence of “My Romance with Rhythms”. It’s no surprise that stations are adding it across the country. Essential listening for lovers of jazz with a Latin vibe. It was all-good!
Greg Fitzgerald
JS108atlanta.com/
Former morning show host
WJZZ, Atlanta
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