RANDOM ACT RECORDS CELEBRATES THIRD YEAR WITH RELEASES FROM EMERGING ARTISTS BRIA SKONBERG AND CARMEN INTORRE
LABEL DONATES 10% OF PROCEEDS TO SELECT CHARITIES
Most would agree that profitable, thriving record labels are few and far between in this day and age. For this reason, it's refreshing to see the still relatively new jazz label, Random Act Records, not only consistently release new music, but additionally donate 10% from each album sale to charity. Past releases include albums by guitarist Randy Johnston, saxophonist Jeff Rupert, a duo album by pianist Kenny Drew, Jr. and guitarist Larry Coryell, and the label's debut release, pianist Jeff Lashway's Reunion. Husband and wife team (and label co-founders), Scott and Anna Elias, move ambitiously into the new year by releasing debuts from two artists on the rise: talented young trumpeter, vocalist and songwriter Bria Skonberg, as well as the exuberant, gifted and swinging drummer Carmen Intorre.
Founded in 2009, Random Act Records is the music division of Random Acts Entertainment, LLC - a film, television and music company. Scott and Anna's combined talents, experience and passion for the music are strong components of the label's growing success. With a background as a pianist and organist (working with artists such as Slide Hampton and Sonny Stitt, among others), Scott eventually found his way into the realm of producing studio films such as: Two Weeks Notice, Miss Congeniality 2, The Lake House, and Music & Lyrics. It was Scott's initial artistic endeavors as a jazz musician that inspired the launch of Random Act Records. Anna started her career as an assistant to Don Johnson on Miami Vice, later teamed with husband Scott to work on many studio films, and has recently achieved success as an award-winning independent film writer and producer. Their duo finds value in creating and supporting art that not only inspires and entertains, but also gives back to the community.
For each project released on Random Act Records, 10% of all album sales are donated to respective charities. "We always wanted Random Act Records to give back to the music community; we want to benefit worthy causes. Our initial six releases all benefit the Jazz Foundation of America. Charities are selected on a per-project basis, and we always get input from the artist/leader about this," says Scott, the label's President.
Canadian native Bria Skonberg is looking to broaden the charity base outside of the United Sates with her forthcoming album, So is the Day, which is set for release in April. "Bria's incredible ability to sing, play, write and arrange tunes, in combination with her overall warmth, charm and her striking good looks, are extraordinarily reminiscent of a female Harry Connick, Jr.," says Anna.
In addition to being a unique and accomplished artist herself, Bria has recruited a talented group for her American debut, including woodwind specialist, Victor Goines, trombonist Wycliffe Gordon, drummer Ulysses Owens, Jr., bassist Kelly Friesen, percussionist Roland Guerrero and labelmates pianist Jeff Lashway and guitarist Randy Johnston. The album consists of original music with the exception of three hand-picked tunes from a diverse range of artists: Irving Berlin, Joni Mitchell and Erik Satie. Acclaimed guitarist John Pizzarelli also makes a guest appearance on one of Skonberg's originals.
Carmen Intorre has performed as a sideman for distinguished musicians like organist Joey DeFrancesco, guitarist Pat Martino, vibraphonist Joe Locke and vocalist Hilary Kole. Intorre will release his debut album on Record Act Records this spring. He has also enlisted a stellar lineup for the project, including DeFrancesco, as well as fellow organist Pat Bianchi, guitarist John Hart and winner of the 2008 Thelonious Monk Competition, saxophonist Jon Irabagon. The organ-based album will feature DeFrancesco and Bianchi playing together on select tracks, an original ballad, and covers of songs by Weather Report, Chick Corea, Stevie Wonder and Steely Dan, among others.
"Scott and I founded Random Act Records as a unique new label devoted to producing the highest quality jazz music while simultaneously making a difference in the world," says Anna. "Great Music for Greater Good is not only our motto, it serves as the core DNA of our company."
UPCOMING RANDOM ACT RECORDS RELEASES:
Bria Skonberg · So Is the Day
Random Act Records · Release Date: April 10, 2012
Carmen Intorre · TBA
Random Act Records · Release Date: Spring, 2012
For more information on Random Act Records, visit: randomactrecords.com
F4or media information, please contact:
DL Media · 610-667-0501
