SAXOPHONIST MAKES A VERY PERSONAL STATEMENT ABOUT HIS PLACE IN LIFE AND MUSIC

Two-Time Grammy Award winner Ernie Watts continues to demonstrate his commitment to jazz with the release of "To The Point," which comes out September 16, 2008 on his own Flying Dolphin label (distributed by Burnside Dist. Corp and CDBaby.com). Recording live at The Jazz Bakery in Los Angeles, Watts guides his longtime quartet through a fire-of-the-moment journey in a set of original music (plus a cover of Tad Dameron’s composition "Hot House").

The group has been performing together for over 20 years, and the cohesion and musical empathy is evident. “I’m at that point where I choose to play the music that matters to me, with the people that matter to me,” says Watts. And indeed the point is made clear on the title track, which showcases his passionate improvisation. Watts strength as a writer is heard on originals "To The Point," "Season of Change," and "Reaching Up." He contributes a blues to the collection, "Road Shoes," defining the roots of jazz. "For Michael" is a poignant jazz waltz in memory of his friend Michael Brecker. Another new composition, the noir-themed "Nightscape" (written by pianist Jon Mayer), sings with emotion.

After 15 solo records for a variety of labels, large and small, Watts started Flying Dolphin Records, a company he runs with his wife Patricia. "To The Point" is the fourth release for the artist on Flying Dolphin. "I’ve reached a place in my life where I need to make music on my terms, and starting my own label provided me with a new sense of freedom."

Watts promotes his releases through consistent touring. When he is not performing with his own quartet, he often appears as special guest in a variety of settings. This year he will be at the Monterey Jazz Festival (Sept 21st) performing on the mainstage with Kurt Elling and string quartet in a Johnny Harman / John Coltrane tribute. He tours regularly with Charlie Haden’s Quartet West, of which he is an original member. Earlier this year he joined Billy Cobham and orchestra for concerts in Australia.

Whether it is a ballad or up-tempo number, Watts soars over airtight arrangements in the comfort of his own group. "To The Point" represents a snapshot of where Watts sees himself today. [more here >>> ]