FRIDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2010

Recording session with Lynn Critelli from Pajama Party

Live at Drom: FAHIR ATAKOGLU

Last evening, we were invited to a sell-out concert at East Village performance space Drom to see Turkish jazz/rock fusion composer and pianist Fahir Atakoğlu. The popular performer has composed hits for two of our favorite Turkish artists—Sertab and Sezen Aksu—both whom I worked with.

Atakoğlu was joined onstage by renowned bassist Anthony Jackson and Cuban drummer Horacio “El Negro” Hernandez. He's best known for symphonic works and music for film, along with 18 solo albums—including latest "Faces & Places," which he showcased last night.The composer/musician, who now resides in the States, has a worldwide following, including a strong U.S. fan base; among venues he has played here are Kodak Theatre in L.A., and New York's Carnegie Hall.

Haiti Relief Video Shoot For 'Lift'

Over the course of two distinct sessions, Ayhan Sahin, Tinatin, Karine Hannah and Chuck Taylor contributed video footage for a Haiti relief project helmed by New York composer and conductor Jim Papoulis, called "We Will Lift You Up." The charity song is being recorded in 35 languages(!), to reach around the globe with an individualized call to arms.

First outing: Papoulis' Upper West Side digs, where we filmed Tinatin—who sings the song in Russian—and Ayhan—who delivers in Turkish—for both a lip sync and interview that will be featured in a long-form documentary about the project. Filming was done by Jim's colleague Jeff Martini.Sing it, girl!Talk it up, honey!Sing it, dude!You don't say, Ayhan?Jim and Ayhan, studio masters.

A few days later, at 2C Studios in Brooklyn, our friend Chris Holmes filmed Karine singing the anthem......followed by an interview led by Chuck Taylor.2C Studios intern Colin Bryson helped set up the shoot.The sense of accomplishment is immense. Hard to believe it's been almost a year since the Jan. 12 earthquake that decimated the nation. The need for assistance is obviously ongoing.See further footage of Ayhan singing "Lift" in Turkish here!
And Tinatin here!


courtesy of THE SMOKING NUN blog