Beach gets ready for Summer Jazz Series
Summer Jazz Series promises hot performers with cool sounds
JACKSONVILLE BEACH, FL - The City of Jacksonville Beach is proud to announce the lineup for its 7th Summer Jazz Series. The three-concert series is scheduled for Sunday evenings from 5:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. at the Sea Walk Pavilion on June 8, July 13, and August 17. Admission is free and open to the public. Bring your blanket or lawn chair and enjoy refreshments available for purchase from local vendors. Entertainment will begin at 5:00 p.m. This year’s schedule begins:
JUNE 8, 2008
Headliner: THE SAX PACK
Throughout popular American culture, a few icons have stood the test of time on first name alone…like Frank, Sammy and Dean…the Rat Pack of course! Adored and revered for their unparalleled musical abilities, camaraderie, humor, good looks, charm and wit, these three
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gentlemen raised the bar for an entire new generation of entertainers. In the world of jazz, there are three saxophonists who have set out to do just the same – that’s Jeff Kashiwa, Kim Waters and Steve Cole…The Sax Pack . . . . three of the most dynamic, best-selling and in-demand contemporary jazz saxophonists on the music scene.
Backed by a tight rhythm section, the talented trio combines their life-long passion for music to create an exciting, creative, energetic performance that combines their individual styles and diverse backgrounds. The concert will feature original music written specifically for THE SAX PACK, as well as each sax player's signature hits and the classic funk, R&B and jazz tunes that will get fans out of their seats.
This is the second appearance at the Sea Walk Pavilion for JEFF KASHIWA, the driving force behind The Sax Pack. Jeff Kashiwa was inspired to create The Sax Pack while watching a PBS documentary on The Rat Pack with Miles Gilderdale of Acoustic Alchemy. "I love the way the Rat Pack took the part that usually happens backstage and brought it to the forefront for the audience" Jeff remarked. Miles said jokingly ‘Yeah, you can do the sax pack.’ I said ‘Wow! That is a great name.’ The next day I called Kim and Steve and said ‘I know we all have separate careers but what would it be like to play together as a group?’ The idea really took off from there. Our first concert was a sold-out show and there was instant chemistry among the three of us and we knew we were on to something."
A native of Seattle, WA, Jeff Kashiwa has it all: technique, soul, showmanship, agility and grace. One of the most diverse and in demand sax players in all of contemporary jazz, Kashiwa cut his teeth with a decade long tenure with the Rippingtons. Inspired by legendary saxman Stan Getz, Jeff Kashiwa has also collaborated with Acoustic Alchemy, Chuck Loeb, Special EFX, and his own successful group, Coastal Access. The chart-topping saxophonist maintains a busy schedule and rigorous tour schedule.
Originally from Baltimore, KIM WATERS has become one of the top artists in contemporary jazz, earning top sales and achieving ten number one hit singles from his many releases. His fifteenth CD, "All For Love" was released in 2005 to rave reviews. Kim continues to grow musically as he climbs to the top of the contemporary jazz world and he has expanded his following to fans of Urban radio with ease. This popular sax man knows how to reach an audience in any setting and he delivers memorable, high-energy performances with style and grace.
Chart-topping saxophonist STEVE COLE is a riveting performer with a talent for creating memorable hooks and catchy music that make crowds move and become forever loyal. Cole's soulful style reflects the rich R&B heritage of his hometown, Chicago. This high-caliber, creative sax man has made a mark in jazz by releasing consistently enjoyable CDs, including his current release "Spin". Steve's new release was inspired by musicians beyond the jazz genre such as John Mayer, Jason Mraz and song-oriented bands such as Five For Fighting. His career includes playing on numerous commercial spots, contributing to a number of soundtracks on the A&E network, as well as composing and performing music with keyboardist Brian Culbertson.
The Sax Pack’s debut CD, THE SAX PACK, hits the stands in May and promises to be just what the world of contemporary jazz has been waiting for.
Opener: MATT MARSHAK

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Matt Marshak
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This 30 something guitarist brings a refreshing blend of funky jazz, world rhythms, smooth urban stylings, and atmospheric soundscapes. In just five short years, he has carved out a niche in the contemporary-smooth jazz world. MATT MARSHAK has shared the stage with Spyro Grya, Ryan Shaw, Bob James, The Sax Pack, Kenny Garrett, Richard Bona, Peter White, Stanley Jordan and many other greats. Always bringing an upbeat and uplifting vibe and presentation, audiences can expect to be thrilled by his handcrafted, masterful, soulful guitar playing. Inspired by the sounds of Larry Carlton, BB King, Robben Ford, and George Benson, Matt's appeal is wide and all-inclusive. Along for the ride is his incredible band, and a diverse set list giving something for everyone. The last few years have brought Matt to some of Europe's biggest Jazz Fests, have placed him on the Top 30 jazz chart, and have brought forth Matt's latest release "On The Rocks." He's a new face, he brings a new energy, and he is a new voice in the world of Jazz. He is Matt Marshak.