It is always a pleasure to participate in such a great New York institution. Nothing beats an afternoon in Central Park with amazing music and beautiful people.

This year our line-up is one of our strongest to date and focuses on emerging artists I tip for future greatness. Jamie Lidell, though having been around for a few years, is just now getting the acclaim he deserves in the US. His new album Jim (Warp) is a fantastic mix of Jamie's own uniqueness with influences of Otis Redding, Curtis Mayield and a splash of Van Morrison. NY's own Little Jackie has just released my soundtrack of the summer The Stoop (S-Curve). Steeped in classic Motown grooves and Imani Coppolas sharp wit, this album is strong from start to finish. Atlanta's Janelle Monáe is yet to release her debut (promised later this year) but she is already causing a stir. You might remember her from OutKast's movie Idlewild, the perfect synergy considering Big Boi produced her upcoming album. Our opener is José James, a young man whose music and vocal delivery denies his age. His debut CD The Dreamer (Brownswood), which I highly recommend, is a soulful contemporary jazz album that rivals the masters.

Finally to "connect the dots" we have all the way from London, Gilles Peterson to DJ. He has been at the forefront of new music and artists for over 20 years. Whether it is through his various labels over the years, including Talkin Loud and Brownswood, his Worldwide radio show (check him out on giantstep.net), or his DJing exploits throughout the globe, Gilles is always full of surprises and delights (even if his taste in football teams is questionable). Come out and support great music.

Maurice Bernstein
CEO/President
Giant Step

Jamie Lidell's MySpace  |  Janelle Monáe's MySpace  |  Little Jackie's MySpace  |  José James MySpace  |  Gilles Peterson's MySpace