Album Notes

This unparalleled artist, born December 25 in Detroit, Michigan, began her musical career at age four as a classical flautist. The rich talent of her brothers and father, Dezie McCullers, Sr. who performed with many Motown stars, influenced her. After years under the direction of the Detroit Symphony Orchestra's Clement Baron, she focused her attention to jazz and popular music. She studied classical music while attending Howard University in Washington D.C. and later she gained further musical inspiration from the accomplishments of Yusef Lateef and Donald Byrd. She has since developed her own creative style.

In June of 1997, Ms. René began touring with the all-female, internationally acclaimed, jazz band "Straight Ahead". Althea René is featured on "Straight Ahead's" most recent CD entitled "City Cuts". The all-female jazz quintet also makes a single guest appearance on Althea's 2003 solo CD release "Chocolate Rush". Today, Ms. René has two independent solo recording projects to her credit. "Flute Talk" released in 2000 and "Chocolate Rush" Released in 2003. She is regarded among musicians and enthusiasts as one of the nations best improvisational flautists.