Jazmine’s popular jazz group, “Aniya,” set to celebrate

Fans of indie music and the singer/song writer scene, know that when a regional band releases a new CD, it’s an occasion to celebrate. The same is true for bands that feature no lyrics only musical metaphors – jazz groups like Aniya.  In fact, the Wilmington-based Aniya is set to release their fourth CD, “Full Circle” by performing at not one but two release parties – both on Saturday, November 19th.

The first will be a full-scale concert at  the Christina Cultural Arts Center, in Wilmington.  The concert will be followed by another party at the nearby Caribbean restaurant, Paradise Palms. Judging from the group’s popularity, there will be crowds at both places.

West Chester followers might already clued into Aniya – this past summer Jazmine Thai, on Gay street, hosted what could what be described as pre-release promotional party for the group. (Aniya also frequently appears at venues at Kreutz Creek Vineyards, both in the borough, at a  storefront BYF (bring-your-own food) and at its scenic vineyards in West Grove. ) That’s total of three CD parties –  reminds me of that old Lionel Richie command: “Let the music play on (play on, play on)”!

If you think a jazz group can’t get a little lively, you haven’t heard Aniya. Comprised of as many as seven musicians, Aniya can be as mellow and reserved as any characteristic jazz trio standing in a corner seemingly air-playing their instruments. For the most part though, getting a bead of their music is like trying to capture mercury.   Their pieces are often original compositions, and even when only a quartet plays, the  flow of the music might be punched up with a strong Gospel base, a  Latin vibe or a reggae-style drum beat.

 Lead guitarist Delbert Boyer formed the group only four years ago (and named it after his grand-daughter) after more than two decades of playing music.  He studied guitar  at Temple and has opened for major acts such as B.B. King, The Philadelphia-based R&B/jazz group, Pieces of a Dream, and Houston Person, the jazz tenor saxophonist.  However, Boyer credits a  stint living in San Diego to introducing him to the then emerging form of “smooth” jazz.

With Aniya , Boyer has expanded on his composing talents and has teamed with saxophonist Mark Mitchell to create numerous original compositions.  Among the most  personal compositions are those that evoke a sense of place or mood.  On Aniya’s 2008 CD  “One Love,” for instance, Boyer wrote a tribute piece to his brother, who died of cancer in 2006.   As Boyer describes it, “A Song for Dana”  was written to “reflect on how important life is.”  Another piece, “Island Empire,” he says, captures the “Latin music flavor of Southern California,” where he spent time with his brother.

In addition to Boyer and Mitchell, (who lists Charlie Parker among his influences),  Aniya includes   Robert Nelson on drums, Albert 'Deek' Morton, bass, Monty Pollard, keyboards and J.Lamar Wagner, percussion.  Their diverse musical backgrounds all contribute to what one critic described as “smooth jazz with an edge.”

The jazz blogger, C.K. Ramiscal, who was a radio personality in L.A. before moving to Wilmington,  is a typical Aniya fan.  He expounds on the group’s up-beat, cheerful musical  demeanor, noting that they produce music that is both “soulful” and “jazzy.”   Judging from the group’s collective background,  the sound of Aniya is understandably diverse. Favorite musicians include Chick Corea, George Benson, Miles Davis, Buddy Rich and  Santana, while genres include reggae, Afro-Cuban music and Gospel.

Boyer invites the public to come out to hear the “jazzy” twists and turns of “Full Circle,” a compilation of original music that reflects how life often leads us back to early loves, friends, and interests, Boyer says.

Celebrate at Aniya’s CD release party – and an after-concert party

•Where:  Christina Cultural Arts Center - 705 Market Street, Wilmington, Del. 19801

•Date: Nov 19, 2011

•Time: Doors open at 6:30 p.m.  Concert  is from 7 to 9 p.m.

• Features: Come celebrate the release of Aniya’s  fourth CD, “Full Circle.” The event is a full-scale concert managed by Richard F. Blackwell, the host of the popular web site, “Jazz On My Mind.”

Admission includes  a free copy of the group's new CD, 'Full Circle', and free admission to an after-concert party at the Paradise Palms, 901 N. King St, in Wilmington.

 •Where:  Christina Cultural Arts Center - 705 Market Street, Wilmington, Del. 19801

•Date: Nov 19, 2011

•Time: Doors open at 6:30 p.m.  Concert  is from 7 to 9 p.m.

•Website: www.aniyajazz.com

•Phone: Blackwell Solution LLC 302-428-1964

•Price: $25 per a person.