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Jazz Fest interview: Jeff Spevak talks with Kevin ( 'Johnny Goldtooth') Breit

'Johnny Goldtooth'
Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festival
'Johnny Goldtooth'

He had to count it out on his fingers. And it took both hands. Canadian guitarist Kevin Breit has played six of the 17 Xerox Rochester International Jazz Festivals.

And every band has been a different musical idea. Folk Alarm 5, The Sisters Euclid. The Stretch Orchestra. Supergenerous, a collaboration with the Brazilian percussionist Cyro Baptista. Breit is a man whose résumé includes playing on Norah Jones’ first three albums.

And earlier this week, his latest sonic incarnation. Johnny Goldtooth and the Chevy Casanovas. An idea that came out of a recording session, after a producer asked Breit to re-do a guitar part originally laid down by Mark Knofler, because it wasn’t rough enough. Johnny Goldtooth is a loving tribute to vintage guitar rock, compete with Breit’s fake gold tooth.

We talked with Breit about his jazz fest experiences.

Jeff Spevak and Kevin 'Johnny Goldtooth' Breit
Credit Randy Gorbman / WXXI News
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WXXI News
Jeff Spevak and Kevin 'Johnny Goldtooth' Breit

Jeff Spevak has been a Rochester arts reporter for nearly three decades, with seven first-place finishes in the Associated Press New York State Features Writing Awards while working for the Democrat and Chronicle.