Jazz Power Initiative (JPI) co-founder, Managing and Artistic Director Eli Yamin, better known as Dr. E., got together with some of his favorite musicians and friends to make an album under the JPI label some months ago. The album, Squeeze In Tight, set for release on September 1st, is meant as a tribute “…to the joy that jazz and blues inspire,” said Dr. E. But with the sudden passing of the phenomenal drummer, and educator, Philadelphia’s David F. Gibson — this, his last release will be as much a tribute to this inspirational human being, who enjoyed playing as much as he loved teaching. Dr. E. master jazz pianist, songwriter/composer and educator said this about his friend and music partner, “Dave had a beat that could shake the earth, and I am grateful to have shared a strong musical bond with him for over 25 years. It’s hard to accept he is gone but I will do my best to live up to his example of pure devotion, concentration and groove.” Personnel: Zaid Nasser (alto saxophone), Elias Bailey (bass), David F. Gibson (drums), Guest appearances include trumpeter Nicole Davis, vocalist Clover St. Hubert, and rising young talents Amelia Thomas, Dylan Rodriguez, and Gigi Leon—all alumni or current students of Yamin’s jazz education programs.