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Lynn Riley (AKA Superwoman of the Sax) Debuts Too Cool Nationally

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"She's a show stopper. She wails, she grooves, she swings. She plays with authority, with power, with soul." These are the words used to describe Lynn Riley by Ron Avery of the Philadelphia Daily News. A powerful dynamo in a tiny package, Riley has been described more than once as “Superwoman" of the sax for her amazing prowess and conviction that stretches across genres. Now, Riley and her band, the World Mix, will be re-releasing their debut CD, Too Cool, January 2010.

Initially released locally, this will be the national debut for the Too Cool CD. In a review of the CD, Kim Yvette Stanley of Associated Content said, “Lynn's signature style can be described as bold, melodious, rhythmic, sophisticated and sultry. She draws you in like nothing I have experienced."

Based on her impressive resume, a listener can understand the expansive music vocabulary and jazz roots heard throughout Too Cool. Having performed throughout the United States, as well as in Europe, Africa, South America and the Caribbean, Riley has played with Grover Washington Jr., David Bromberg, Gerald Veasley, Rachelle Farrell, Charles Earland and more. She has opened for artists such as Najee, Spyro Gyra, Nelson Rangell, Nester Torres, Andy Narell, The Indigo Girls and others.

Riley pays homage to Grover Washington Jr. in Too Cool with the “Grover's Groove" track. A funky, upbeat number, the soulful voicings of “Grover's Groove" reflect the playful and confident side of Riley. You hear the same sassy no-nonsense musical prowess in the cover tune, “Too Cool," as well.

Perhaps it is this sense of innocent confidence that is most evident throughout the CD. “Sedona" infuses old-school jazz sensibilities with a smooth jazz groove that is infectious, while “Oasis" harkens back to a more romantic time with power and grace. “Pamela" quietly maintains a skill set beyond the average fair heard in the releases today. You leave the album with a greater understanding of the exceeding capabilities of this artist.

More about the artist: A native of Philadelphia, Riley has been awarded and recognized for her musical contributions. She received a Window of Opportunity grant from the Leeway Foundation in 2004. Her proficiency has been recognized by the Trane Stop Resource Institute, which presented her with an award acknowledging her contribution in preserving and promoting Afro-American Classical Music. Additionally, the NAJE presented her with an award for Outstanding Service to Jazz Education.

Logon to www.lynnriley.com for upcoming concert dates and sound samples from the Too Cool CD.

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