The Velvet Jimis, an Oak Park band, was born at the Friendly Tap (www.friendlytap.net) in Berwyn, Illinois. Jimmy Darley (vox, harmonica and percussion), Randy Hess(vox and bass), Loren Middleton (vox and lead guitar), Rick Renner (vox and rhythm guitar), Jason Edwards (vox and drums), Christopher Styles (vox and percussion) and Emile Williams (vox and percussion), produce colorful and diverse original compositions and a raging party at every show. The Velvet Jimis perform regularly in the West Suburbs(Fitzgerald’s Night Club, The Friendly Tap) and Chicago( Lincoln Hall, Double Door, Elbo Room, Reggies Music Joint, Go to velvetjimis.com for info on gigs and to hear VJ music tune into the velvet jimis at Lojazz Radio at www.lojazzradio.com daily (9-10:30, 12:1:30, and 5-7p). Their Debut album is available through itunes “The Distance Between Us”

Imagine if Neil Diamond, David Bowie and Nate Dogg were able to create a love child, who and what would you get? Jules Esquire is an unrivaled baritone crooner and songwriter with a melodious and soulful sound. With songs like “Erotic Dancer” and “Live Big”, Jules’ sleek vocal style captivates your senses by paying homage to the past, yet ushering in present and future vibes to create a style all his own. Sharp horns, sultry guitar and skillful lyrical content solidify a classic Jules Esquire sound. Collaborations with artists like Kwaid and Opra Thomas express the best of his musical diversity. As a son of a Christian minister, Jules’ passion for singing and songwriting started in the church as God-given gifts. His parents open to artistic expression, allowed him to experience many different genres of music. His use of imagery mixed with suffering and joy have all the emotions of a great spiritual experience. The piece entitled “Dr. Watts,” travels through time to resurrect an African-American ancestral tradition by introducing a new generation to the genesis of the gospel sound yet infuses hip-hop to create a new relevance for the times. Jules writes and performs music woven in a tapestry of wordplay and poetry. He relates to the human experience by consoling, enlightening and arousing his audience with a message of hope and encouragement. Listeners are inspired by his lyrics and moved by the depth in which he scribes life’s experiences. Jules bears all and is transparent to a fault. He shows no pretense or fear of unexplored emotions; prepare to go on a journey of truth mixed with a sensual innocence only he can administer. Allow his music to cater to your senses and escort you on an euphonic excursion.