Quatro (full album)
Released on April 5, 2024
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About the “Quatro” Album
“Quatro” (or “4” in Portuguese) is our fourth album, it renews our love for the classic jazz quartet and it celebrates the Blessings of family. Good things come in fours.
These songs explore a wide array of themes:
– The title track “Quatro” (feat. Andrew Vargas) is a fusion of Bossa Nova and Trap which celebrates the birth of a new family.
– “Night Drive On The Coast” (feat. Oshra Sedan) is a Smooth Jazz escape
– “Tropical Delight” (feat. D-Varg) is a cool Bossa Nova cruise through the tropics.
– “How ‘Bout You” (feat. Allen del Rosario) is a Gypsy Jazz romp around the globe.
– “Winter Blues” (feat. Sherinda) is a somber Jazz ballad with flamenco overtones.
– “Lullaby” (feat. John Vargas) is a Bossa Nova tribute to the joys of family life.
All songs were produced and engineered by David Vargas with executive producer John Vargas. This musical undertaking was brought to life at 4Play Studios in Fremont, CA. Mastering by Grammy-nominated engineer Shawn Hatfield at Audible Oddities, San Francisco, CA.
Tropical Delight
Released on March 22, 2024
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About “Tropical Delight”
Transport yourself to paradise with “Tropical Delight”, the latest musical escape from 510JAZZ, featuring vocalist D-Varg.
This Bossa Nova cruise takes you on a journey through lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls and sun-kissed beaches.
Close your eyes and share moments with that someone special. As the gentle breezes caress your skin, you’re serenaded by tropical birdsong.
Tropical Delight is your passport to a realm of pure bliss.
This song was produced and engineered by David Vargas with executive producer John Vargas. This musical undertaking was brought to life at 4Play Studios in Fremont, CA. Mastering by Grammy-nominated engineer Shawn Hatfield at Audible Oddities, San Francisco, CA.
Quatro (single)
Released on February 14, 2024
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About “Quatro”
We’re very excited to release our newest single showcasing the composition of John Vargas and David Vargas.
“Quatro” (or “4” in Portuguese) is a celebration of the Blessings of family. While this family of three was happy in life, this story tells of a beautiful new arrival.
With a smooth mid-tempo Bossa Nova vibe, “Quatro” also incorporates elements of Trap, with an upbeat positive hook.
This song features vocalist Andrew Vargas, accompanied by pianist Mark Rickey with Chris Koraltan on bass, drums and latin percussion.
Programming, synth and guitar arrangements by John Vargas and David Vargas.
This song was produced and engineered by David Vargas with executive producer John Vargas. This musical undertaking was brought to life at 4Play Studios in Fremont, CA. Mastering by Grammy-nominated engineer Shawn Hatfield at Audible Oddities, San Francisco, CA.
Crossing The Sea
Released on September 16, 2022
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About “Crossing The Sea”
This bossa nova ballad takes you on a solo cruise through uncharted waters. The vocalist tells the story of a love adrift on the wide open seas leading to a journey to new horizons.
Lush acoustic guitar stylings and smooth bass and drum rhythms are accented by grand piano accents and latin percussion.
“Crossing The Sea” features the superb guitar stylings of Beto Tiano and vocals from Hassan Moses Vakili. The rhythm section is comprised of Allen del Rosario (piano), Charlie Channel (bass), Chris Cortez (drums) and David Vargas (latin percussion).
This song was produced and engineered by David Vargas with executive producer John Vargas. This musical undertaking was brought to life at 4Play Studios in Fremont, CA. Mastering by Grammy-nominated engineer Shawn Hatfield at Audible Oddities, San Francisco, CA.
Jetstream
Released on September 14, 2021
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About “Jetstream”
Released on September 24, 2021, our newest single “Jetstream” is a smooth jazz instrumental which takes you soaring high above the clouds. Hypnotic keys create a soft airline cabin ambience, accented by guitar melody, rap stabs and airy choral vocals. The perfect soundtrack for your next overseas flight.
“Jetstream” features the superb guitar stylings of Dave Howard with rap adlibs from D-Varg and choral vocals from Michael J. Johnson. The rhythm section is comprised of Allen del Rosario (Rhodes and synth), Charlie Channel (bass) and Paul Davis (drums and latin percussion).
“Jetstream” is composed by John Vargas and Dave Howard.
This song was produced and engineered by David Vargas with executive producer John Vargas. This musical undertaking was brought to life at 4Play Studios in Fremont, CA. Mastering by Grammy-nominated engineer Shawn Hatfield at Audible Oddities, San Francisco, CA.
Now There’s No You
Released on July 9, 2021
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About “Now There’s No You”
Released on July 9, 2021, our newest single “Now There’s No You” is a bossa nova ballad which gives a view of a romance nearing the end. While pain and sadness are overwhelming sensations, we need to remember that there’s something better coming soon.
“Now There’s No You” features the superb guitar stylings of
Dave Howard and sweet sultry vocals from Veronica Timms.
The rhythm section is comprised of Mark Rickey (piano), Charlie Channel (bass) and Paul Davis (drums and latin percussion).
“Now There’s No You” is composed by John Vargas and Dave Howard.
This song was produced and engineered by David Vargas with executive producer John Vargas. This musical undertaking was brought to life at 4Play Studios in Fremont, CA. Mastering by Grammy-nominated engineer Shawn Hatfield at Audible Oddities, San Francisco, CA.
Dave Howard Talks About New Song
Released on July 9, 2021, our newest single “Now There’s No You” is a bossa nova ballad which gives a view of a romance nearing the end. While pain and sadness are Listen to this great interview with composer/producer/bandleader/guitarist Dave Howard. Executive Producer John Vargas talks with Dave about composing, arranging, and studio recording of our newest single “Now There’s No You”
The Bossa Nova
Released on July 24, 2020
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What They’re Saying
New Music Ear
“THREE LITTLE WORDS (Featuring Maya Victoria, Matt Blaque and D-Varg) – A cute, quirky and sweet melodic ballad about two new sweethearts in love. Maya Victoria and Matt Blaque provide the duet while D-Varg adds some Rap to give it a Trip Hop feel. Reminds me a lot of some 80s R n’ B/Soul songs. It has the most Pop feel than some of the other tracks. It’s modern and a radio friendly hit for sure.”
Andrew Goodwin
New Music Ear
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About “The Bossa Nova”
“The Bossa Nova” features vocalists Oshra Sedan, Anna Konstantopoulos, Maya Victoria and Matt Blaque along with rapper D-Varg. Featured soloists are Matthew Szemela (violin), Stan Muncy (vibes), Tom Povse (flute) and John Lewis (tenor sax). The rhythm section is comprised of Tony Song (guitar), Mark Rickey (piano), Marty Honda (bass), Poh Soon Teng (drums) and Jenny Ball (latin percussion).
All songs were composed by John Vargas and David Vargas
All songs were produced and engineered by David Vargas with executive producer John Vargas. This musical undertaking was brought to life at 4Play Studios in Fremont, CA. Mastering by Grammy-nominated engineer Shawn Hatfield at Audible Oddities, San Francisco, CA.
Three Little Words
Released on February 14, 2020
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About “Three Little Words”
“Three Little Words” features vocalists Maya Victoria and Matt Blaque along with rapper D-Varg. The rhythm section is comprised of Stan Muncy (vibes), Tony Song (guitar), Mark Rickey (piano), Marty Honda (bass) and Poh Soon Teng (drums).
“Three Little Words” is composed by the songwriting duo of John Vargas and David Vargas.
This superb song was produced and engineered by David Vargas with executive producer John Vargas. This musical undertaking was brought to life at 4Play Studios in Fremont, CA. Mastering by Grammy-nominated engineer Shawn Hatfield at Audible Oddities, San Francisco, CA.
Summer Rain
Released on November 8, 2019
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About “Summer Rain”
“Summer Rain” is an upbeat Bossa Nova cruise through the tropics. Weather forecast calls for gentle downpours and sporadic raindrops. Inspiration hearkens from those stormy days in Paradise.
“Summer Rain” features vocalist Anna Konstantopoulos and saxophonist John Lewis. The rhythm section is comprised of Tony Song (guitar), Mark Rickey (piano), Marty Honda (bass), Poh Soon Teng (drums) and Jenny Ball (latin percussion).
“Summer Rain” is composed by the songwriting duo of John Vargas and David Vargas.
This superb song was produced and engineered by David Vargas with executive producer John Vargas. This musical undertaking was brought to life at 4Play Studios in Fremont, CA. Mastering by Grammy-nominated engineer Shawn Hatfield at Audible Oddities, San Francisco, CA.
Called To The Sea
Released on July 26, 2019
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About “Called To The Sea”
“Called To The Sea” is a Bossa Nova ballad which explores the allure of open waters. The salty air and hypnotic crashing waves have long called many to this unique environment. This song reflects the beauty of our natural surroundings and the experience of being “Called To The Sea”.
You’ll enjoy stellar performances from vocalist Oshra Sedan and Berkeley Symphony violinist Matthew Szemela. Our 510JAZZ rhythm section is comprised of Tony Song (guitar), Mark Rickey (piano), Marty Honda (bass) and Poh Soon Teng (drums).
Composed by the songwriting duo of John Vargas and David Vargas, this song features strings arranged by Stan Muncy.
Our new single was produced and engineered by David Vargas with executive producer John Vargas at 4Play Studios in Fremont, CA. Our new single was mastered by Grammy-nominated engineer Shawn Hatfield at Audible Oddities, San Francisco, CA.
January 16
Released on February 12, 2018
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What They’re Saying
SmoothJazz.com
“Branding themselves as “Jazz From the East Bay,” 510JAZZ, named for their home base area code, is a fascinating collective of regional session musicians and vocalists performing Sergio Mendes and Quincy Jones-influenced arrangements of spirited original bossa nova flavored tunes. Under the stylistically expansive direction of songwriters, bandleaders and producers, John Vargas (vocals) and David Vargas (rap), their latest album JANUARY 16 fuses the old school bossa with funky urban jazz, tight hip hop beats and infectious soul music – all elevated with empowering spiritual messages.”
Sandy Shore, CEO
SmoothJazz.com
Read more in The Listening Loft…
WJMX Smooth Jazz Boston
“WJMX-DB Smooth Jazz Boston Global Radio is honored to be broadcasting more world-class and masterpiece music of the incomparable Musicians and Artists of 510JAZZ, from their newest
Album “January 16”
As always 510JAZZ will satisfy your Smooth Jazz listening pleasure with their diverse mix of music fusing contemporary jazz, Bossanova, R&B and hip-hop genres that is nothing short of ABOVE PERFECT, in both presentation and collaboration.
Grab this Album NOW a must have for your Smooth Jazz Collection.”
Jeff Moses, CEO
WJMX Smooth Jazz Boston Global Internet Radio
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2RRR 88.5 FM Sydney, Australia
“A relatively new band in the “smooth jazz” genre, called 510Jazz and based in the San Francisco Bay area, have recently issued their second CD, called “January 16”. 2RRR jazz and easy listener presenters have schedules tracks…
…All 16 songs were variously composed by John and David and provide a variety of styles: “upbeat love duets”, “contemporary jazz numbers infused with rap”, “rich sambas featuring dynamic vocal harmonies and rap” and “a romantic ballad with lush strings and sultry sax“
Midday Jazz
Radio 2RRR 88.5 FM
New Music Ear
“The second album by 510JAZZ is a mix of modern, contemporary Jazz and Bossa elements interspersed with aspects of Hip Hop, R n’ B, Soul and musical cabaret styles… amazingly diverse… An uplifting, positive album brimming with confidence boosts and filling your mind with images of good feeling.”
Andrew Goodwin
New Music Ear
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About “January 16”
The new album from 510JAZZ, released on February 12, 2018. John and David Vargas composed 16 new original songs. David dedicates this album to his grandmother Jesusa Estrada Cerezo with the title track “January 16” – a fitting tribute to an angel in our lives.
Our new album contains a wide array of stories that take the listener on a journey from sweet love ballads to fast-paced tales of world travel, to dark social reflections and songs that inspire faith. John’s writing was inspired by composers Antonio Carlos Jobim, Ivan Lins and Celso Fonseca. This project pays homage to legendary producers Sergio Mendes and Quincy Jones.
Talented Bay Area Musicians
Building a solid rhythm foundation, 510JAZZ recruited Mark Rickey (piano) and Tony Song (guitar). Adding melodic drummer Collette d’Almeida and bassist Charlie Channel – 510JAZZ now had the perfect foundation needed to produce groundbreaking new songs.
Horns were arranged by Tom Povse (flute), featuring John Lewis (tenor sax) and Gil Cohen (trumpet and flugelhorn).
Stan Muncy arranged strings, with our quartet featuring Emily Onderdonk (viola), Lewis Patzner (cello), Mads Tolling (violin) and Matthew Szemela (violin). Stan Muncy also performs on vibes and latin percussion.
“January 16” also features a rich variety of vocal talent including Nikki Rey, MrMego, Nik-Nak, Oshra Sedan, Matt Blaque, Ricki Wegner, Maya Victoria, Nick Neira and Kristen Nicole.
Jay Midnight is featured DJ on two songs.
The Making Of “January 16”
Get a behind-the-scenes view of our new music by viewing videos in our “New Music from 510JAZZ” channel. These videos show eleven of our 2017 recording sessions at 4Play Studios in Fremont, CA. Videos also include producer interviews with John and David Vargas.
Bossa510
Released on December 22, 2015
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What They’re Saying
New Music Ear
“The debut album from John Vargas’ all star multi-talented ensemble kicks off with a funky bass and guitar intro which moves into Jazz Funk seamlessly incorporating some 90s style Hip Hop. David Vargas (known as D-Varg and John’s son) provides the cool, summery rapping while R n’ b star Jamillions provides some chilled vocals. It would almost be the perfect Pop song but the twist of Randy Merril’s flugelhorn makes it just that little bit more unique.”
Andrew Goodwin
New Music Ear
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About “Bossa510”
The debut album from 510JAZZ, released on December 22, 2015. This album is the result of combining 60s era Brazilian Bossa Nova – and a new wave of Bay Area Jazz. The result is Bossa from the East Bay – “Bossa510”.
Featured Musicians
On our debut album, our rhythm section features Mark Rickey (piano), Tony Song (guitar), Ed Lee (guitar), Ravi Jayasinghe (bass), Sam Brignon (drums), Chris Koraltan (drums) and David Stockman (congas).
Our horn section features Tom Povse (flute), Esther Berndt (alto sax) and Randy Merrill (trumpet and flugelhorn).
“Bossa510” also features a rich variety of vocal talent including John Vargas, D-Varg, Nikki Rey, Oshra Sedan and Jamillions.
Featured Song Videos
Visit our 510JAZZ YouTube page and view full-length song videos in our “Shows” channel.
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