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By Entertainment Editor Ahmed Sirour
A WEEKEND TO REMEMBER (06.30.03)
Dear Journal:
Tarrazu
normally is quiet and moderately patronized around 8:00pm on
Saturdays, although "Doc G" had his crew (a.k.a.
"Tha Row") in the corner partaking of fine wines and
desserts...this man is so smooth that silk would chaff
him. Well, all I know is that by 8:30pm, a normally quiet Tarrazu
was near capacity, and by the time my band arrived to set up at 8:45pm,
every seat was virtually taken! I promptly played the CD at 8pm
just after announcing to the audience about the project along with
background info. People were getting at me for the samplers and this one
dude was asking question after question...after question...whew!
It was cool because I had the answers he needed, though a glass of water
would have been nice after the inquisition was over! At around
9pm, I introduced Tori Alamaze, one of the two
Atlanta artists who are on the project, to the audience while
her song " Goin Fishin" was playing over the
P.A. She addressed the patrons, who gave her a warm round of
applause before and after she spoke, hyping the project and her
next live performance on the 31st of this month (details forthcoming). She
didn't perform because I had a last minute band change and we didn't
have time to rehearse her song.
Dr. Lloyd Geddes' (a.k.a. "Doc G")
Afterward, my band, THE FORMULA, got underway and played to a capacity crowd, then followed up with our featured vocalist, Cleveland Jones, who ripped the mike, especially when we opened up with Myron's joint, "Free" from the HIDDEN HITS...VOL. 1 project (so yeah, we did sneak at least one track in for a "live" performance)! During our set breaks, the CD was played as new people came in and I kept passing out flyers, samplers, and The Kindred Papers (Hidden Beach's colorful magazine that had updates and information about the label and its artists). Local phenom, Phillippia, came in to surprise Cleveland, as she performed 3 songs, including in impromptu duet with Cleveland on Sade's "Cherish the Day" which simply LIT THE PLACE UP! Even though we stopped at about 12:30am, the CD kept playing till 2am, when Tarrazu closed, and I must say that it was a complete success from my perspective! I also think some men were paying attention to my article last week when I mentioned the beautiful and successful women who patronize Tarrazu regularly, because I saw more single guys show up then previous times...but the women still managed to just outnumber us (God is good). I must say, though, that it's become increasingly harder to meet and converse with women since I've gotten into this music thing full-time. Although I have more personal time to work on music and as well as other artistic projects, and then I have this Entertainment editorial gig ATLANTAHAPPS.COM has graciously afforded me, getting me into some of Atlanta's hottest events to cover, it actually seems as if my social life has decreased while my social schedule has increased...what does this all mean, and what's happened to my "mojo"?
SUNDAY
(06.29.03)
Dear
Journal: I was
really looking forward to Dr. Lloyd Geddes' (a.k.a. "Doc
G") monthly event, every last Sunday at Eleven50 as
part of Doc G Productions', "Front Row
Series". This particular concert
would feature our local rock superstar, Joi, opening up
for one of Hip-Hop's most preeminent groups, Brand Nubian.
As always, in pure "Doc G fashion", by the time I get to the
velvet rope at the base of Eleven50's stairs, I am greeted by one of the
many breath-taking models of Beauty in a Blink Model Management
(www.beautyinablink.com
; I hope Marcia appreciates my plugs)! Journal,
people who haven't heard of or have taken the time to attend one of
these events are truly missing out!
The price of admission ($25, if
I'm not mistaken) allows an individual to enjoy the ambience of the
recently-opened Eden restaurant, where they get to
partake in some very scrumptious hors d'ouevres, complimentary libations
(E&J Cognac, this time around), a terrific "live" band
(from my musician's standpoint), an opportunity to network with
Atlanta's movers and shakers, and then enjoy some of the best local and
national/international talent all on the same stage on the same night!
Oh, and I forgot to mention those intense DJ sets where people drop
their inhibitions and let loose on the dance floor, as Eleven50 is
notorious for on any given night! I admit that I got down myself
as I'm sure some camera shots that may get out to the public will
reveal--and two of the three photographers present purposely shot me
with food in mouth, mid-conversation with a young lady, and a number of
times on the dance floor when...um...hold up! Journal...I gotta
get this off my chest...
Okay, so this gorgeous woman I had spoken to briefly, in
passing, suddenly grabs my hand and takes me onto the dance floor
as we proceed to "scratch the wood". She tells me
she doesn't want to draw any attention, as my photographer friends were
hovering close by for a good shot of us (those who where there would
know why), but then she's getting a little aggressive and even placing
my hands on her hips as we seemed to be having a contest of who could
seduce who on the dance floor--it did get a little heated, and I admit
my equal part in it! Every time a camera comes by, she retreats to
another area, pulling me with her, until we mutually take a break to
cool off. Later on she gets me again to hit the dance floor but
not before revealing to me she's been, and STILL is, MARRIED
for 7 years--what the hell?!! Best believe I kept a safe
distance between us this time, but I'm still trippin' that...well...yah
know! What's happened to monogamy and the limit to how far one
goes when not around their significant other? Now I see why she
didn't want any photos taken...hubby might be browsing the 'Net and see
his lady doing things only single women should dare try. That
scene in the movie "Brown Sugar" was playing in my head where Taye
Diggs finds his wife having dinner with another dude, though that
dude had no idea she was married...I repeat, HAD NO IDEA!!
Anyway,
Joi was killing the stage so nice that the crowd forgave
and forgot she started an hour and a half late. With a four-piece
band and two hot background vocalists, that lady turned it out and I
really believe she is one of the most underrated female rock artists of
her time...period! I had to love when she went through band
introductions and got to her drummer, who was actually "Tony
Towerz" moonlighting for her normal drummer, and instead
of a drum solo, she brought the mike to him while he sang AND
played...and the ladies were eating it up! Then it's on as Grand
Puba (the first hip-hop artist whom Sprite used to endorse
their product--you remember...the freestyle commercial) and Brand
Nubian took it back to 1990 in Brooklyn, when I grew up hearing
their songs all over HOT 97 and seeing their videos on "Pump it
Up" and "The Box". Although I was feeling, all the tracks they performed, and even remembered a few lines here
and there, I and everyone else started hollering when they finally got
to "Slow Down", one of my favorite cuts from
their classic album, "One for All".
All I
have to say is that I do NOT plan on missing any of Doc G's
events if I can help it so I'm gonna put www.docgproductions.com
in my favorites list!
Well, that's all for this weekend's activities, Journal, so I'll have to
get back with cha after I try to survive my family
reunion/grandparent's 50th anniversary this weekend...I'll need all the
strength I can get--LOL! Hmmm...I hope no one finds out what I
wrote.
NOW ONTO THIS WEEK:
-
Kirk Whalum's on Wednesday, July 2, 2003 at Centennial Park, starting at 5:30pm, rain or shine.
-
The Urban Bartender's Ball @ Shadows (starting @ 8pm www.atlbarz.com)
-
Ryan Cameron's pre-4th of July Blowout at Visions (www.ryancameron.com) on Thursday, July 3, 2003 (free with e-mail printout b/f 11p for the ladies and b/f 10pm for the fellas).
-
Friday, July 4, 2003, it's the 4th of July edition of Soul Sista's Juke Joint @ Apache Cafe' feat. Carla Gomez, Sa'rah, Daughters of MEN, and poetry by Sunshyne (free for the first 17 men...www.apachecafeinfo.com)
-
On Saturday, July 5, 2003, Positive/conscious Hip-Hop heads can enjoy the "Going Away Party for Scienz of Life/Sol Uprising" @ Apache Cafe' (doors at 10:30pm and admission is a "love" donation)...truly some of the best conscious and positive Hip-Hop (with some of the tightest beats) you'll ever hear, and hosted by Dres tha Beatnik.
CD of the Week: "A LOVE SUPREME" by John Coltrane
Released in 1965/Recorded 12/09/64 (Impulse!)
" I HAD to go
back as I don't just want to cover new releases, because you'll
definitely hear about them over, and over, and over again on the radio
(unless, of course, it's an underrated album that goes slightly
unnoticed that I will make sure goes on blast if I can help it). This offering by John Coltrane was first introduced to me when I
was 17. There was something so otherworldly about it whenever I
heard that haunting repetition of the title, that I was immediately
transfixed. Years later it would have grown to more significance
as I would sometimes play "Part I: The Acknowledgement" during
my morning "meetings" with my Creator.
This album is probably one
of the most important jazz pieces in the history of the genre, and
although we all have our various viewpoints, I feel this as an apt piece
of music, for me, for Independence Day...my own independence from the
cares of this world when I put it all into perspective and realize there
is something greater that guides me and keeps my senses in tact and in
order, when everything around me tends to be chaos.I truly admire Spike
Lee for using that song during the final scenes of one of my
favorite movies, "Mo' Betta Blues" as Denzel
Washington's character, Bleek, finally finds his life's redemption
in love, music, and family. If you do not own this fine work of
art, I strongly suggest you make it part of your collection!
Additional News...
R&B
singer, Brandy, and her husband of only two years,
producer Robert Smith, recently parted ways but
will still raise their daughter together and still be cool as friends.
Seriously, if you saw even one episode of the "MTV Diary presents:
Brandy", it never really looked like they even fit together, as he
seemed like a big kid just going along with whatever there was to
do, and Brandy seeming to be annoyed every other minute. If this
isn't a message to about just waiting it out for the right one, then
what is?
Kim
Fields (no more "Fields-Freeman"...but I
digress from the matrimonial references), of "Facts of Life"
and "Living Singles" fame will be dropping a
spoken word CD due sometime this summer called "UNINHIBITED".
As it stands, it will definitely be a step away from her former clean
girl image as there are a few moments of profanity used (artistically,
of course) within this album--"OH MY GOOODNESS...what would Mrs.
Garrett say?"
Speaking of profanity, as well as this amazing occurrence of seamless transitions from one story to the next, rapper DMX actually got arrested for using profanity during a concert this past weekend in St. Kitts, West Indies. Apparently it is a misdemeanor to utter expletives out in the open in their law books, which means that American tourists are probably a favorite of the local police there. He got off with $376 bail and has to appear in their court at a later date...remember folks, DICTIONARIES are our friends!
On an interesting note, the Motown Alumni Association is working hard on a 3-month grassroots campaign to the U.S. Postal Service to honor the late Marvin Gaye with a commemorative stamp to be issued by what would have been his 65th birthday on April 2, 2004.Though requests in the past have been turned down,
Post Office policy states that an individual must have
been deceased for 10 years (yeah...do the math). Anyway, fans may
write petition letters to: Dr. Virginia Noelke/Chair, Citizens Stamp
Advisory Committee/475 L'Enfant Plaza, SW/Room 5670/ Washington, DC
20260-2437 (letters need to be in no later than September of this year).
_________
If you don't want to live each day as if it were you're last,
then why not live them as if it were your first...each day IS a new
beginning, right?
peace2ya!
P.S.--Me and my band are taking a break from
"SENSUAL SATURDAYS" for the 4th of July but will be
back the following Saturday (07.12.03) with vocalist, Carla Gomez, so
check us out then and have a safe holiday weekend!
ATLANTAHAPPS.COM
Ahmed Sirour writes a weekly journal for ATLANTAHAPPS.COM
Ahmed Sirour is a Georgia Regional Representative for Hidden Beach Recordings
-- Archive
If you’re looking for a new spot to kick back and chill, meet up with old friends (or new ones), a place to unwind and network after work with young urban professionals, someplace to commune after a jazz/r&b concert, movie, or a night of theatre, a cozy place to kick it with your sweetheart, or a place to flirt and engage in seductive conversations with beautiful strangers, then I highly recommend Midtown’s newest place to be and be seen…
Tarrazu Coffee Bar! Only some months up & running, Tarrazu has already begun hosting a number of functions and has served as a sanctuary for the "buppie" and "yuppie" crowds. Named after a mountainous region of South America famous for some of the world’s best coffee, Tarrazu can match Café Intermezzo with its diverse offerings of decadent beverages and treats while separating itself from comparison with a smaller more intimate setting—I would especially recommend this as an ideal spot for your private party needs (be a "baller" and rent it out for the night like Boris did for Sanaa in "Brown Sugar"—LOL).
Located at 265 Ponce de Leon Avenue (around the corner from Old Spaghetti Factory and right next door to MF Sushi Bar), Tarrazu takes centerstage with its eye-catching terrace and black awning…and then you walk in! I’m no interior decoration expert, but with beautiful hardwood floors, artistic lighting, assorted candles throughout the establishment, very cool, classy, and comfortable dinner/lounge furniture, very clean bathrooms (hey, ya know), ambient table settings, great food, coffees, and desserts, and a great wait-staff…what more could you possibly ask for?! How about "live" music on Thursdays and Fridays (sometimes, Saturdays)? Did I mention this is a solely Black-owned establishment, run by partners Nathan Horne, Robert Beckham, and Terrance Gattis? Did you know they are even preparing the groundwork for yet another location in Phipps Plaza? Did you know that entire block (from MS Sushi Bar to Nancy’s Deli) is Black-owned? Did you know that they play Hidden Beach music on a regular ;) ? Did you want me to give you anymore reasons to go there or are you wise enough to act on my suggestions with any more cajoling?
Tarrazu Owners and ATLANTAHAPPS.COM subscribers
Robert Beckham (left), Ahmed and Nathan Horne
SENSUAL SATURDAYS at Tarrazu Coffeebar
Date: Canceled this week. Please join us on Saturday, July12, 2003
Time: 9 p.m. - 12 a.m. Eastern Time (US and Canada)
SUDARABAJAN Productions present...
"SENSUAL SATURDAYS"
(as a part of Tarrazu's Liquid Jazz Series)
Featuring a three-piece (keys/drums/bass) neo-jazz band,
THE FORMULA
Enjoy a sensual atmosphere of candlelight's, chill conversations, cool
sounds,
and good food as you leave the stress of the work week behind you.
As an extra treat, each week will feature a different up-and-coming
vocalist to
sit in with the band and grace the mike, for your listening pleasure.
The
dinner and dessert menu is definitely for the discriminating
palate...and you
won't need any reservations.
Time:
9pm-12pm (NO COVER!)
Address:
265 Ponce De Leon Avenue (around the corner
from Old Spaghetti Factory)
Suite D
Atlanta, GA 30308
404.815.2077
Dress:
Comfortably Fly!
Contact info:
Ahmed @770.374.3537
Visit their website for upcoming events, lunch specials, and a preview
of their dinner menu at:
www.tarrazucoffeebar.com. Tell them Ahmed sent you…no, you won’t get
any discount on your dinner check, but it just sounds like a cool thing
to say—LOL! Seriously though, I might make a deal with them about
discounts if you do mention you heard about them from this article! Or,
maybe a free CD sampler from Hidden Beach (while supplies last). 
Ahmed Sirour - Eclectic. Product of a Sudanese-Arab (Muslim) father and a Bajan-Caribbean (Christian) mother. Ahmed was a "diamond in the rough" hewn from Brooklyn, now undergoing "polishing and re-cutting" in Atlanta. This serves as a premise to his diverse nature that comes from a diverse background. His poetic style is influenced by his love of music...specifically, jazz improvisation. He sometimes uses a rhyme form he calls "Broken Word"; basically, the rhyme scheme alternates between words and phrases but with a definite flow just like a jazz jam session where the art of freestyle takes place. Although it would seem that hip-hop, another of his influences, would seem to be a more apt description of his style, it is the marriage of youthful innovation paired with classic refinement. He is also moved by the Harlem Renaissance, which he feels is resurfacing, in spirit, throughout many major metropolitan cities, especially Atlanta. More importantly, he is moved by his belief in spirituality, believing that he is merely a vessel of God to bring forth the talent that he feels he has been blessed with.
Ahmed's goal, this year, to finally publish his first collection of work entitled, "This Would Be A Love Song...If Only I Could Sing"; a collection of poetry, essays, and short stories based on his life's experiences in the area of love and life. Ahmed is also a musician (keyboardist) and plays for and with many talented artists in Atlanta (and those who travel through the city from abroad). He currently represents for Hidden Beach Recordings (www.hiddenbeach.com), so he keeps one foot in the business and one foot (and two hands) in the art, itself. It is his hope and prayer that beyond enjoying his work, that people are actually moved, emotionally/intellectually/spiritually, by the words they read, and to know that this is merely a power that is coming through him and not from him.
SOULFUL HAPPS - A SPOTLIGHT ON URBAN MUSIC & CULTURE
Imagine for a moment if Marvin were still alive and able to record with the Roots... Or what about Pete Rock breaking-off a track for Minnie Ripperton or Donnie Hathaway. What kind of energy would these collaborations create??? The answer is found in a new Soul Music Series entitled SOULFUL HAPPS, and it's unlike anything you've ever heard. This section features artists who produce the sounds of 70's Soul, Acid Jazz, Hip Hop, and Rare Grooves appreciated by music lovers around the Atlanta area. But it's more than a sound... It's a feeling... bringing the past and the future together in a rather unique way. Click here for details
WHAT THEY ARE SAYIN...
Mr.Sirour,
I live in LA and was
recently in your wonderful city and love reading you're column, Very
nice. Miles...
Mr.Sirour,
I would like to begin by saying I enjoy your weekly "HAPPS" commentary. I look forward to it every Monday evening when I have down time at work. I appreciate you keeping us 'Atliens' abreast of the goings of Atlanta and upcoming music artists. Please keep doing what you are doing!
Mr.Sirour,
Now, I would like to comment briefly on your commentary for this week. Kudos to you for being honest and candid! How refreshing to hear such positive and thought provoking thoughts. I agree with you in so many ways. Just as a smile can be contagious, so can positivity.
P.S-- I saw the plug on your site for the Tarrazu Coffee Bar. It sounds like a great place. I will be trying it out this week.
Thank You,
Brettina Burney
KATHLEEN BERTRAND
Visit the Website http://www.kathleenbertrand.com
Subscriber Kathleen Bertrand, her riveting performances combine contemporary R&B grooves with jazz riffs that keep audiences wanting for more...
No Regrets sets an elegant new standard for contemporary soul, and Kathleen Bertrand brings an inspiring new voice to the world of music. Look for future features on this dynamic singer in future ATLANTAHAPPS listings.
Ahmed writes the way a jazz musician plays during an improvisational jam session paired with the way a lyricist freestyles in hip-hop form. It is a marriage of the past and present that creates a fusion to set the tempo for the future. His writing surpasses his racial makeup and simply becomes a unique American story by a unique American writer.
www.authorsden.com/ahmedasirour
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