Wynton Marsalis has long developed tomorrow’s jazz audiences today via a long list of accomplishments too numerous to name in this particular article. But in the interest of giving props where props are due, Mr. Marsalis’ initiatives range from his successful endeavors as Artistic Director of Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra to lecturing at Harvard University as a jazz educator to performing and recording with his ensembles and world-class orchestras around the world to Cultural Correspondent for CBS News – just to name a few. As a recipient of The Pulitzer Prize, numerous GRAMMY Awards and a host of national and international accolades, Wynton Marsalis has helped to strengthen the jazz genre and has revitalized a new generation to hone their special skills as jazz musicians.
On January 24, 2012, Masterworks Jazz released The Music of America: Wynton Marsalis. The double-disc recording is Mr. Marsalis’ self-curated collection of songs for the label’s The Music of America series. The repertoire includes songs from a 13-year span in the career of Wynton Marsalis' three decades as a musician/composer/arranger/educator/author/conductor. A small sample of the maestro’s oeuvre is represented on The Music of America: Wynton Marsalis including songs originally released on Jump Start & Jazz, Big Train, Sweet Release & Ghost Story, The Marciac Suite, All Rise, and his Pulitzer Prize winning epic titled Blood on the Fields.
Bluegrass, jazz, classical, marches, symphonic, it’s all here. Prepare for a musical tour of American music. Each track takes the listener on a musical journey—a journey filled with Americana, rich colors and textures associated with jazz music, and the glorious musical metaphors that personify Marsalis’ genius. Buy The Music of America: Wynton Marsalis today. To learn more about Wynton Marsalis and his exciting career, please visit www.wyntonmarsalis.org.
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ROMANCE LANGUAGE
Kirk Whalum
Romance Language is Kirk Whalum’s splendid remake of the John Coltrane/Johnny Hartman classic recording. The CD consists of all six songs that comprise the Coltrane/Hartman album, along with four additional ballads written by such contemporary composers as Terry Lewis & Jimmy “Jam” Harris, Eric Benet and Joe (Thomas).
The GRAMMY Award-winning tenor saxophonist steps into the role of Coltrane as he duets with his brother Kevin. Kevin sings lead vocals on all tracks except “Almost Doesn’t Count” on which another family member, Hugh “Peanuts” Whalum, takes over the lead vocals.
The set opens with Irving Berlin’s “They Say It’s Wonderful,” and Kevin gives this priceless gem a complete makeover as Kirk gently comps his velvety vocals. Kirk’s sax solo provides an intimate and fresh mood after which Kevin and the ensemble conclude this beautiful song. Sammy Cahn’s “Dedicated To You” is one of the most moving ballads you’ll ever hear and the Whalum Brothers deliver the goods once again – Kirk with his smooth sexy saxophone riffs and Kevin in his ever-so- suave lead vocals. The remaining songs from the original classic are adorned in their modern-day inspirations and are beautified with warm moods and distinctive phrasings. Two voices with many possibilities who are transforming tradition.
“I Wanna Know” provides a great platform for Kirk to shine on the tenor. His burnished and sensual take comes complete with the depth and emotions that his interpretations have come to be known for. This song allows the listener to get into this song on another level and Kirk certainly gives the song its props
There are many great elements in this present day R&B/contemporary jazz arrangement of the songs originally released on Romance Language. However, the most admirable consist of the exceptional interplay between Kirk and Kevin, the seductive and genuine passion in Kevin’s romantic baritone that is impeccably comped by Kirk’s tenor sax voice and accompanists that enhance both of their musical voices. Overall, they are the smooth side of soul. Buy ROMANCE LANGUAGE today. Click on CD cover image.
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Here We Go
Peter White
Guitarist Peter White teams up with GRAMMY winning saxophonists David Sanborn and Kirk Whalum on his 13th recording. Here We Go offers listeners an eclectic mix of songs that reflect White’s virtuosity as a guitarist, songwriter and collaborator. White also pays homage to several places and people including David Sanborn, Bob Marley, the late Princess Diana, and the beautiful country of Costa Rica.
The creativity and the energy flowing from DC, Philippe Saisse on keyboards, his guest saxophonists and his amazing ensembles form a winning sound as these musicians work together to produce and convey a joyous, diverse recording.
The set opens with “Night After Night” an upbeat tune that captures the moods of what listeners can expect from the program. White follows with the powerful ballad, “Time Never Sleeps” a song co-written with Philippe Saisse. “Here We Go,” features David Sanborn’s exciting chops and was written with him in mind, while “My Lucky Day” pays homage to Bob Marley and “Requiem For A Princess” which White says “may be the saddest song I have ever written” is dedicated to the late Princess Diana. “Desert Night” and “Costa Rica” are built on Latin rhythms with the latter featuring Roman Yslas on congas and timbales.
Overall, each song has a special story and Peter White’s impeccable guitar sensibilities make Here We Go even more special. Buy Here We Go today. Click on the CD cover.
Enjoy The Ride Jay Stewart
After nearly forty years of writing, producing, recording and touring with the likes of such great artists as Miles Davis, Marcus Miller, Sting, Luther Vandross, Ivan Lins, Chaka Khan, and his present group Global Noize – just to name a few – GRAMMY winning artist/producer Jason Miles still seeks new directions on the road less traveled. Whether it’s new songs, new ideas, new styles or new collaborators, Jason Miles is at his best when his creativity comes through in the music and inspires the musicians. His latest collaboration is with guitarist/composer Jay Stewart and together, they’ve created Enjoy The Ride.
Enjoy The Ride is an infectious collection of 10 soul- simmering compositions infused with the genius of Jason Miles and Jay Stewart. Their excellence as composers/producer/arranger comes through the songs performed by such amazing musicians as bassist Neil Jason, drummer Brian Dunne, saxophonist David Mann, conguero Jimmy Bralower, trumpeters Cindy Bradley and Barry Danielian. Jason Miles’ accomplished playing on electric piano and Hammond B3 organ and Jay Stewart’s finesse on electric and acoustic guitars truly bring the songs alive.
The set opens with “Living The Life,” and really sets the mood of this amazing recording and rewards the listener with a sound that fires on all cylinders. “The Light At The End of the Tunnel” and “4 Tee and Dupree” are exemplary jazz funk tunes, the latter pays tribute to Richard Tee and Cornell Dupree that finds Jay Stewart weaving his crisp guitar lines between Miles’ piano and Hammond B3 organ mastery. Listeners can indulge themselves on the intense rock/soul free for all cover of “I’m A Man” and the explosive sounds of “Blowing Smoke” before chillaxing’ to the hypnotic and whimsical acoustic ballad “Soothe My Soul.”
Overall, the rock, blues and jazz performances on Enjoy The Ride are passionate and reveal the versatility of Jason Miles’ and Jay Stewart’s creativity and musicality. Give it a listen and then buy it from the SOTJ store.
IN THE ZONE
Richard Elliot
IN THE ZONE is packed with the influential and indelible riffs of great soul jazz artists that Richard Elliot pays homage to on this 10-track program that he co-produced with Jeff Lorber. Elliot brings his informed knowledge of such great musicians as Grover Washington, Jr., David Sanborn and Bob James and his own great saxophonics to this inspired project as he and horn arranger David Mann, help Nate Phillips on bass, Tony Moore and Lil’ John Roberts on drums, Dwight Sills and Michael Thompson on guitars, and percussionist Lenny Castro create the kind of 70’s inspired contemporary jazz that is sure to put you in a great aural place. All of the songs were written by Richard Elliot and Jeff Lorber with the exception of “Inner City Blues (Make Me Wanna Holler),” “Just A Taste,” and “Golden Triangle.” Richard Elliot puts a positive spin on these songs as well as his unique blend of R&B and Jazz elements to bring you some innovative music that will just blow you away. These musical encounters provide the listener with the richness of soul/jazz music and reveal the source of Elliot’s founts of inspiration. Take a listen to his exuberant and aggressive playing on “Boom Town,” and then check out how he works with the synth contrasts that “In The Zone,” provides. If you prefer candlelight jazz, then “Golden Triangle” is for you because Elliott is not only grown and sexy but this song sets the mood for a great night of intimacy. Overall, Richard Elliot reaches the same standards he set with Rock Steady. Check it out and then buy it from the SOTJ Store. Click on the CD cover to purchase.
The Good Feeling Christian McBride Big Band
The Good Feeling is Christian McBride’s big band debut project for Mack Avenue Records and it’s a keeper. The programming is as well mixed as a great martini and includes tasteful renditions of three great songs sung by Christian’s wife, vocalist Melissa Walker. Theirs is a revelatory collaboration that refines her sultry take on “When I Fall In Love,” hits its maker’s mark on “The More I See You,” and feels just as heartfelt as the original rendition of “A Taste of Honey.”This exceptional recording also features McBride’s re-arrangements of previously released songs including “Brother Mister,” (from Kind of Brown) “The Shade of the Cedar Tree,” “In A Hurry,” (from Getting’ To It) and “Science Fiction” (from Sci-Fi) as well as evolved readings of “Broadway,” and “I Should Care.” McBride gets straight down to business on “Shake and Blake,” a song written for long-time band mate/collaborator saxophonist Ron Blake. With a limitless variety of high and low brass soloing, the listener can immediately hear the sense of sustained momentum and immaculate execution of McBride’s arrangements. He takes a bass solo that is followed by a full orchestral tutti that will have you swinging to the beat and before you realize it, you’re languishing to another great solo on “Broadway.” This song conjures up the great Duke Ellington and like Ellington, McBride is a can-do musician who is driven by the urge to not just perform music but to create the contexts in which the experience of listening to it is most powerful. “Bluesin’ In Alphabet City,” focuses mostly on McBride’s detailed explorations commissioned for the Jazz At Lincoln Center series back in 1995. As then, it still contains every color, timbre, and nuance that exists in the blues and features stellar trumpet solos and McBride's exemplary bass soloing. Overall, you’ll be quite blown away by the end of this program which is 70 minutes of some of the best big band music of this century.This music will leave you with The Good Feeling. Click on the CD cover image to purchase The Good Feeling.
Fingers by Airto
Jackie Cain & Roy Kral
Outback by Joe Farrell
Blue Moses by Randy Weston
Classic Reissues from Sony Masterworks Jazz Airto, Jackie Cain & Roy Kral, Joe Farrell and Randy Weston
The 40th Anniversary of CTI Records continues with the reissues of classic CTI albums. Available for the first time on CD are Airto’s Fingers, Jackie Cain & Roy Kral’s A Wilder Alias, Joe Farrell’s Outback and Randy Weston’s Blue Moses. Richard Seidel produced the reissues and retained the original track listings but remastered the original two-track analog tapes to capture the classic sound of the original LPs. Each package replicates the original LP and its iconic cover design.
Fingers Airto Alongside his wife Flora Purim, guitarist David Amaro, keyboardist/vocalist Hugo Fattoruso, bassist/vocalist Ringo Thielmann, the world-renowened percussionist leads a stirring set that demonstrates the excitement of Brazilian/jazz fusion. The 7-track set includes Airto’s vision of the Ruben Rado/Eduardo Uzeta title track, his own “Merry-Go Round,” and “Tombo in 7/4” as well as Purim’s delightful “San Francisco River,” and Hugh Fattoruso’s “Romance of Death,” “Wind Chant,” and “Parana.”
A Wilder Alias Jackie Cain & Roy Kral This CD was the duo’s only CTI recording and reflects their traditional, cool style experiment with fusion that is built on dazzling vocalese and unconventional song structures. The five-track CD includes “A Wilder Alias,” “Niki’s Song,” “Waltz For Dana,” “The Way We Are,” and “Good and Rich.”
Outback Joe Farrell Joined here by Chick Corea, Elvin Jones, Buster Williams, and Airto Moreira, Joe Farrell received a 1972 Grammy Award nomination for Best Jazz Performance by a Group for this amazing recording. The fearless improvising by this group has plenty of soul. Farrell plays tenor and soprano saxophones, flute, flute alto, and piccolo. The set includes “Outback,” “Sound Down,” “Bleeding Orchid,” and “November 68th.” Simply awesome.
Blue Moses Randy Weston This is one of Randy Weston’s most popular recordings and reached the number 16 spot on Billboard’s Jazz chart in 1972. “Ganawa (Blue Moses)” is adapted from the rhythms and melodies of a religious song, “Sidi Musa” (Arabic for Moses), one of the spirits evoked by a brotherhood of the Ganawa. Along with Weston on piano/electric piano, Blue Moses features trumpeter Freddie Hubbard, Grover Washington, Jr. on tenor saxophone, Billy Cobham on drums, Ron Carter and Bill Wood on bass, percussionists Phil Kraus, Airto Moreira, Azzedin Weston, and Hubert Laws on flutes and piccolo. Weston is inspired on four great tracks – “Ifrane,”“Ganawa (Blue Moses),” “Night in Medina,” and “Marrakash Blues.” All songs were composed by Randy Weston and most of the African feel of Weston’s playing and Don Sebesky’s arrangements have all been retained.
The reissue producers are to be saluted for the vast amount of non-accessible music contained in these three volumes. Click on the CD titles to purchase.
Roseland
Acoustic Alchemy
Acoustic Alchemy’s latest recording Roseland is a great step in a new direction. First, Roseland is released on their newly formed Onside Records recording label and has been exclusively licensed to Concord Music Group/Heads Up International. Second, it was recorded in England, UK at Miles Gilderdale’s newly built studio in York called 9 Miles High. But most of all, the 13 songs recorded for Roseland are individual gems that any listener is sure to enjoy be they rock, jazz, country or reggae music fans. The program is eclectic and yet cohesive and features the stellar writing of Greg Carmichael and Miles Gilderdale on all 13 songs. Joined by their touring band – keyboardist Fred White, bassists Gary Grainger and Julian Crampton, and drummer Greg Grainger, and several great guest musicians, both Miles and Greg exercise lots of non-acoustic playing on such great songs as “The Ebor Sound System” which is ripe with reggae groves and synthesized guitar sounds, “Swamp Top” which features a variax for more texture, plus “Roseland” and “Stealing Hearts” which features Gilderdale’s steel acoustic guitar for a full-on country sound. “Right Place-Wrong Time” is one for straight-ahead jazz fans and offers some great fretwork and odd-time signatures and changes. Overall, Roseland takes listeners on a musical journey through several different styles and is a CD that deserves to be in your collection. Highly recommended. Click on CD cover image to purchase Roseland.
A Moment’s Peace
John Scofield
A Moment’s Peace is John Scofield’s follow-up to his 2009 release titled Piety Street. Accompanied by his all-star band of pianist/organist Larry Goldings, bassist Scott Colley, and drummer Brian Blade, the master guitarist relays his reflections of several great ballads with a sense of serenity that makes all of these compositions come alive in a new musical relationship. From the opener “Simply Put” to the closer “I Loves You Porgy,” John Scofield performs a solid program that you are sure to enjoy. Most memorable songs that Scofield makes his own are “Throw It Away,” “I Want To Talk About You,” and “You Don’t Know What Love Is.” Golding’s solo on “Throw It Away” is absolutely beautiful as Scofield gently comps the pianist with even lovelier guitar chords. This is the bona fide guitar heroe's most gentle album and the creativity, when he is either soloing or accompanying is exemplary and stretches the tradition of the great melodic improvisers. Click on the CD cover image to purchase A Moment's Peace.
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Poncho Sanchez and Terence Blanchard = Chano Y Dizzy!
Poncho Sanchez and Terence Blanchard
Individually, Poncho Sanchez and Terence Blanchard are true standard-bearers for modern day jazz congueros and trumpeters. Put them together and they certainly will excite an audience with their fiery blend of Latin and straight ahead jazz elements, technique and improvisations in many of the same ways that Chano Pozo and Dizzy Gillespie did during their heyday. Now a new generation of jazz lovers can experience this excitement on Poncho Sanchez and Terence Blanchard = Chano Y Dizzy! Poncho Sanchez’s tribute to these titans of jazz is an 11-song set that includes songs originally written and performed by the two legends and also showcases compositions written by several more writers that capture the flavors of traditional Latin jazz.A medley of “Tin Tin Deo,” “Manteca,” and “Guachi Guaro” opens the program and features Terence Blanchard delivering some very sultry trumpeting over Sanchez’s remarkable percussion and vocals. The musicians continue to lay down a solid set with spiced up rhythms and energy during “Con Alma,” “Siboney,” “Groovin’ High” and the closer “Ariñañara,” which is a straight up hardcore salsa that is the perfect ending for this excellent set. Overall, the ballads and the up-tempo burners performed on the recording really add to the solid legacy of Chano Pozo and Dizzy Gillespie and give further credence to both Sanchez and Blanchard as true standard-bearers of their legacy. To purchase Poncho Sanchez and Terence Blanchard = Chano Y Dizzy! please click on the CD cover image.
Lucky Girl
Jacqui Naylor
Vocalist Jacqui Naylor has some dreams worth chasing though they’ve taken a while to catch. Why? Her latest release titled Lucky Girl is a project that Naylor’s fans had the honor to vote on and select the songs that would be included on the recording. The result is the 15-track disc that includes nine-original Naylor compositions and finds her deep in six fresh covers of such songs as The Indigo Girl’s inspired “Dreamin’ Prayin’ Wishin’,” “Only Love Can Break Your Heart,” the Gamble/Huff hit made famous by Teddy Pendergrass titled “Close The Door,” and Wes Montgomery’s infused “Sunshine and Rain.” However, of all the songs included on this recording, her priceless renditions of Roger & Hammerstein’s “Surrey With The Fringe On Top” that she artfully arranged over George Benson’s hit titled “Breezin’,” and her funked-up, Prince-styled, arrangement of “Angel Eyes,” really stand out. Naylor’s seamless arrangements blends so well that you hardly remember the song’s original music. Jacqui Naylor has a great voice that captures multiple ranges, but it’s the alto essence of her beautiful arrangements that can be experienced on “Since I Love You,” “Moon River,” and “Close The Door,” that captivates the listener and makes her a stand-out among her peers. Check it out. Click on the CD cover to purchase Lucky Girl.
Guitar Man George Benson
The incomparable George Benson is at it again, but this time, the 10-time GRAMMY Award-winning guitarist is pleasing his fans with a delightful selection of pop and jazz standards that they are sure to enjoy. Jazz luminaries Joe Sample, Fourplay drummer Harvey Mason, bassist Ben Williams and keyboardist and musical director David Garfield lend a hand on 12 songs that make up the program for Guitar Man. Opening with “Tenderly” as a solo guitar offering, Benson soothes you with his graceful string virtuosity. “Oh Danny Boy” is also a solo guitar offering on which Benson hands his fans a second ballad that he delivers with ease and comfort. The program continues with the Lennon/McCartney pop standard “I Want To Hold Your Hand” but this time Benson has employed Oscar Castro-Neves to provide an orchestral arrangement for his interpretation of this enduring standard. Benson plays this song on the nylon-string guitar with a seven man team of David Garfield on piano/keyboards, Paul Jackson Jr. and Ray Fuller on guitars, Freddie Washington on bass, Oscar Seaton, Jr. on drums; violinist Charlie Bisharat; and flutist/clarinetist Dan Higgins. Continuing with pop standards made famous by Stevie Wonder (“My Chere Amour”), Michael Jackson (“The Lady in My Life”); and Nora Jones (“Don’t Know Why”) he includes exemplary renditions of John Coltrane’s “Naima,” “My One and Only Love,” “Tequila, ”Paper Moon,” and “Since I Fell For You” before concluding his set with ”Fingerlero.” Whether singing in his intoxicating vocals or delivering his killer guitar chops with his coterie of accompanists, George Benson gives a great performance on Guitar Man that is sure to resonate with his fans for years to come. Check it out and then buy it from the SOTJ store. Click on the CD cover image to purchase.
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ROY-ALTY
Roy Haynes
Roy Haynes is undeniably a legendary drummer who is considered Roy-alty by legions of jazz fans. With countless credits to his name, Roy Haynes has proved ever flexible when providing the pulse, heartbeat and snap to performances headed by such jazz giants as Louis Armstrong, Lester Young, Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk, and John Coltrane – just to name a few. The drumming virtuoso is said to have an internal timing instrument that not only sets a natural pace whether Haynes is swinging or playing hard bop.On his latest Dreyfus Records release appropriately titled Roy-alty, Haynes is joined by his Fountain of Youth Band and features two multiple GRAMMY winners - Chick Corea and trumpeter Roy Hargrove.Hargrove’s own RH factor is in definite agreement on six tracks where he plays trumpet, flugelhorn and claves while the great Chick Corea plays piano on two tracks titled “Off Minor,” and “All The Bars Are Open.” But this program definitely belongs to Roy Haynes who brings his own unique style and versatile drumming vocabulary to the 10 great songs on this recording. Haynes spreads the rhythm around with his effective punctuation filling in all the spaces. His noted preference for the flat ride cymbal amplifies the definition in his sound on “Passion Dance” as the youthful swagger of Roy Hargrove, Jaleel Shaw, Marcus Strickland, Robert Rodriquez, David Wong and Craig Haynes compliment his masterful drumming. All of the songs on Roy-alty great so check this impeccable offering out at your nearest retail outlet. Click on the image to purchase.
Threedom
Pilc Moutin Hoenig
Threedom finds pianist Jean-Michel Pilc, bassist Francois Moutin and drummer Ari Hoenig back together again as a trio and their unique synchronicity is documented on 18 great songs that have been mined from the Great American Songbook, jazz standards and improvisations “composed” by Jean-Michel, Ari and Francois in one take during their recording session! The enhanced CD also features video footage from the March 5, 2011 recording session at Peter Karl Studios in Brooklyn, NY. The program opens with “Nardis” a Miles Davis evergreen into which the trio launches with intense and uninhibited interpretations. Several more jazz standards from some of the genre’s biggest names – Thelonious Monk (“Think of One”), John Coltrane (“Giant Steps”), Mongo Santamaria (“Afro Blue”), Duke Ellington (“I’m Beginning To See The Light”), and Charlie Parker (“Confirmation”) follow and are sequenced between the trio’s improvised offerings. Each of the jazz standards are performed with reverence for the original music but the trio’s signature interpretations give these songs a fresh 21st century update that is sure to resonate with both new and long-time fans of the trio. “Birth,” “Slow,” and “Touch” are beautiful ballads that display Pilc’s exceptional piano skills in a quiet way, while five other songs composed on the spot in the studio – “The Grinch Dance,” “Dusk,” “Lily,” “Threedom,” and “A Hymn For Her,” offer the trio’s fans an assortment of songs in odd-time tempos, atonal rapport and exciting solo introductions. Overall, this reunion of Pilc, Moutin, and Hoenig is straight-ahead jazz at its best and deserves to be in your collection so buy it today. Click on the CD cover image to purchase Threedom.
Move
Sultans of Strings
Canadian string super-group and 2010 JUNO Award nominees (Canada’s GRAMMY Award) Sultans of String have released their stunning new CD titled Move. This third offering weaves a global sonic tapestry, influenced by Spanish Flamenco, Arabic folk, Cuban rhythms, Jazz, Bossa, and French Manouche Gypsy-jazz music. The 12-tracks on Move are a riveting musical adventure, seamlessly traversing diverse themes of heart, place and tradition. Chris McKholl’s fiery violin dances with the kinetic guitars of Kevin Laliberte and Eddie Paton while the funky bass lines of Drew Birston and the percussion of Rosendo “Chendy” Leon provide unstopple grooves that linger in the mind and soul of the listener long after the songs are over. This is one great CD. The group’s guest musicians create additional layers of sound with such instrumental solos as the flute on “Road To Kfarmishki,” and Ken Whiteley’s mandolin solo. The depth of their sounds increase with each track. The virtuosity of McKhool. Laliberte, Paton, Birston and Leon make them exemplary ambassadors of musical diversity so this is one ensemble that you must listen to and then buy this award winning group’s latest offering. Click on the CD cover image to buy Move.
Songs From The Chateau Kyle Eastwood
Kyle Eastwood’s fourth release on Rendezvous Records is appropriately titled Songs From The Château. It features the virtuoso on upright and electric bass playing nine great songs that he wrote and later recorded at Le Château Couronneau in Ligueux, France. The fabulous castle built in the 15th century and located in the vast wine-growing area of Bordeaux obviously provided a wonderful environment for Eastwood’s ideas and songs because all nine of the songs speak of the rich authenticity that exudes from the castle’s quadrilataire plan and lush gardens that now house this world-famous winery. Accompanying Eastwood are his long-time band mates trumpeter Graeme Flowers, saxophonist Graeme Blevins, pianist Andrew McCormack and drummer Martyn Kaine. Their set opens with “Marciac,” the homage to the infamous scene of the famous jazz festival where the band played in 2010. This song features excellent solos from Flowers and Blevins while Eastwood, McCormack and Kaine provide their awesome rhythmic accompaniment. “Moon Over Couronneau” is a beautiful ballad that captures the mood and scenery associated with a moonlit night at the castle. The muted trumpeting of Flowers introduces the song and sets the backdrop for McCormack’s impressionist piano theme. This is one of the most beautiful songs on the recording and attests to Eastwood’s compositional integrity as well as to his ability to play understated rhythms that define the moon dance we hear. Listeners are then treated to a lively calypso called “Café Calypso” which features Blevins’ happy saxophonics and the band’s fiery Caribbean grooves. However, my picks are “Andalucía” and “Aperitif” both which feature Eastwood’s virtuosity as a bassist on captivating solos that are punctuated by McCormack’s sensitive piano comping and Flowers’ muted trumpeting. These songs really work on all levels and are full of character, atmosphere and the distinctive feelings of the stories behind the songs.Overall, all of the songs on this exceptional recording are great; in fact, Kyle Eastwood tops his efforts on Metropolitan and gifts the world with an excellent, inspired recording that you’re sure to enjoy from beginning to end. Un suprême effort. Buy Songs From The Château now. Click on CD cover to purchase. Click here to read more about the making of Songs From the Château.
Hot Sauce Jessy J
Jessy J's new album is her special take on ten fiery tunes that she calls Hot Sauce! The gorgeous saxophonist has spiced up her chops with authentic Latin zing and packed the recording with some of contemporary jazz’s finest flavors in the form of today's most prominent contemporary jazz musicians, including guitarists Paul Brown and Ray Parker Jr, keyboardists Joe Sample and Gregg Karukas, and drummer Harvey Mason of Fourplay. Hot Sauce showcases eight originals along with adventurous new arrangements of Francis Anthony `Eg' White's pop hit "Leave Right Now" and Duke Ellington's jazz classic "In a Sentimental Mood." Hot Saucealso spotlights Jessy's stylish vocals and lush, sultry saxophone playing that shows her growth as an artist. Give a listen to her romantic vocals on Ellington’s “In A Sentimental Mood” or listen toher fire up the title track…she sounds great on both sides of the musical spectrum as a vocalist and as an instrumentalist. Check her out and then buy Hot Sauce. Click on the CD cover to purchase HOT SAUCE.
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Legacy The Gerald Wilson Orchestra
The great Gerald Wilson is at it again. This time around, he’s paying tribute to his adopted hometown Chicago on his fifth Mack Avenue Records release titled Legacy. As conductor of his 20-musician orchestra,Wilson leads re-interpretations of such classical composers as Igor Stravinsky, Claude Debussy, and Giacomo Puccini as well as new compositions by his son Anthony Wilson and grandson Eric Otis. However, the centerpiece of this great recording is the Yes, Chicago Is…(Suite) a work commissioned for the 2008 Chicago Jazz Festival. The work comprises seven short movements based on the same melody, with changes in color, harmony, tempo and tone providing variety that describe certain places in Chicago that were full of jazz. The program opens with a dynamic “Variation on a Theme By Igor Stravinsky” (The Firebird) featuring the awesome saxophone solo by Ron Blake on tenor saxophone that is followed by Sean Jones’ great trumpet solo. “Variations on Clair De Lune” is a blues featuring the exemplary guitar work of Anthony Wilson and pianist Renee Rosnes who suggest “After Hours” during the piece. The brass section plays the well-known melody in-between Rosnes’ riffs turning this delicate classical work into something completely brand new. Great saxophone, trumpet and piano solos takes the variation to another jazzy level before the piano’s final fade. Wilson’s “Variation On A Theme By Giacomo Puccini” (“Nessum Dorma” from Turandot) is a ballad featuring a remarkable trumpet solo while Eric Otis’ “September Sky” starts as a gentle ballad that features the mellow sounds of flautist Antonio Hart and flugelhorn of Jeremy Pelt before seguing into a daring saxophone solo. “A Great Place To Be” from the “Yes, Chicago Is…(Suite)” section closes this dynamic program of big band music that was composed, arranged and orchestrated by Gerald Wilson. With excellent performances by all four sections (rhythm, saxophones, trumpets and trombones), Legacy is a definite gift from one of the world’s greatest bandleaders. Buy it today. Simply click on the CD cover.
Click on image to purchase Midnight Sun
Midnight Sun Dee Dee Bridgewater Midnight Sun is an elegant compilation of love songs that the incomparable Dee Dee Bridgewater covers to perfection. The multiple-award winning vocalist/composer and three-time GRAMMY Award winner selected and oversaw re-mastering of the eleven compositions on Midnight Sun which were culled from several of her previous recordings including Dear Ella, Keeping Tradition, This Is New, J’ai Deux Amours, Love & Peace: A Tribute To Horace Silver, and Eleanora Fagan: To Billie With Love From Dee Dee. While creating a song cycle that traces the many stages of love, Bridgewater’s Midnight Sun repertoire, which she sings in English and French, takes the listener from the cafes of France (Trenet’s “Que reste-t-il?” and Edith Piaf/Marguerite Monnot gem titled “L’Hymne á l’Amour”) to the unhappy depth of love’s heartache as sung on Horace Silver’s “Lonely Woman,” and Billie Holiday’s “Good Morning Heartache.” The compilation opens with “Midnight Sun” a captivating ballad that Ms. Bridgewater sings with the kind of passion and finesse that keeps your interest from the intro to the very last note. Originally released on Dear Ella, and backed by the conducting and orchestral arrangement of John Clayton, Bridgewater gives this gem the kind of memorable interpretation that comes straight from the heart. “Angel Eyes” features her expressive elongated phrasing and nuance that literally makes this song a remarkable one-act play. Amazing! Dee Dee Bridgewater’s endearing story-telling art reaches new heights on “My Ship” while “Speak Low,” and “The Island” are smooth showcases for her rich multi-octave range that is even more impressive as a result of their breezy bossa nova backbeats. Listeners will be more than enamored with Ms. Bridgewater’s mastery of these great love songs as well as with her tonal quality and natural ease in delivering their heartfelt messages. Overall, all of the songs on the recording are excellent and Midnight Sun ranks high among Dee Bridgewater’s stellar recordings and deserves to be in your collection. Buy it now. Click here to read more about the making of Midnight Sun.
Click on the CD cover to purchase Harlem-Kingston Express
Harlem-Kingston Express: Live Monty Alexander Pianist Monty Alexander celebrates his 50th year with Harlem-Kingston Express, a very righteous debut for the innovative Motema imprint. Recorded at Dizzy’s Coca Cola, Jazz at Lincoln Center in 2010, and in Jamaica, Germany, France, and Holland from 2006 to 2009, Alexander’s urban fusion of jazz and reggae is captured on 11 great songs that Monty fully explores. The recording features two rhythm sections between which Monty Alexander sits comfortably at the piano. His swinging sound goes seamlessly from straight-ahead jazz to reggae on “King Tubby Meets The Rockers Uptown” and for nearly 7 minutes the ensemble kicks a groove that you’ll never forget. “Eleuthera” features a great percussion/piano conversation between Alexander and percussionist Robert Thomas that you’ll really enjoy. Throughout, the mastery of the pianist is on full display and the skill and technique Alexander brings to this song is priceless. Miles Davis’ “Freddie Freeloader” gets a reggae twist, while Bob Marley’s “The Heathen” is a ripe display of The Full Monty in all his glory. All of the songs on this excellent recording are performed with compassion and dedication and if you weren’t in the audience, the magic of actually being there sounds through brilliantly. This is one of the best LIVE recordings you’ll ever purchase. Check it out. Then buy Harlem-Kingston Express from the SOTJ store. Simply click on the CD cover.
Colors From A Giant’s Kit
Sir Roland Hanna
The long overlooked mastery of Sir Roland Hanna is finally getting some more much-deserved attention at IPO Recordings which just released an amazing collection of previously recorded songs by the pianist titled Colors From A Giant’s Kit. Hanna, who died in 2003 after recording his masterpiece Everything ILove, is honored on this 14-track compilation which features the pianist playing 5 of his original compositions as well as several traditional, Great American Songbook gems, and jazz standards that you are sure to enjoy. The beauty and technical artistry on this recording is exemplary and showcases Hanna’s adept style at the piano as well as his remarkable songwriting skills. While all of the songs on this recording are excellent, top picks that stand out are “Colors From A Giant’s Kit,” “My Romance,” “Cello,” Coltrane’s “Moment’s Notice,” and “Naima,”Strayhorn’s “Lush Life,” Hanna’s own “20th Century Rag,” and Duke Ellington’s “In A Mellow Tone.” Get your copy today from www.iporecordings.com.
HI-FLY Sachal Vasandani
On HI-FLY, the popular vocalist offers his interpretations of several jazz standards as well as some from the Great American Songbook and from Gershwin’s Porgy and Bess. Accompanied by Jeb Patton on piano, Rhodes, Wurlitzer; David Wong on bass, Kendrick Scott on drums, and guest artists John Ellis on tenor saxophone, Ambrose Akinmusire on trumpet and Jon Hendricks on vocals, this versatile recording displays Vasandani’s command of jazz singing with flair and style. Vasandani wrote three of the compositions and performs a duet with Hendricks on “One Mint Julep” and the title track. Trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire and tenor saxophonist John Ellis offer their creative visions in the form of solos on “Love Is A Losing Game,” “Babes Blues” and “Flood” while John Ellis adds additional tenor saxophone riffs add a tasty jazz flavoring on the revered standard “The Very Thought of You.” This is very laid back set and makes excellent company. Check it out. Click on the CD cover to purchase.
PRIME TIME Paul Taylor Paul Taylor ignited a potent mix of soulful, sexy saxophone riffs on Burnin’ back in 2009. Since then, the world-renown saxophonist has delved deep in search of songs and collaborators that will re-ignite the simmering harmonies and memorable melodies this project left in the hearts and minds of his fans. Taylor’s sixth release for Peak Records, Prime Time, has done just that. Not only does it mark the debut through a new partnership with Eone Entertainment Group, but Prime Time features Taylor’s reunion with Dino Esposito, one of the architects of the trademark Taylor sound heard all the way back to Pleasure Seeker. The set also offers exceptional collaborations including one with guitarist Steve Oliver on “Horizon” who delicately complements Taylor’s alto saxophone prowess. The Heavyweights also add their musical vision to Prime Time. Their urban adult contemporary vocal cuts spotlight vocalist Jamie Jones on the soulful “Can’t Nobody,” and Andrea Anderson-Olson on “Space,” both of which are the recipient of Taylor’s sultry saxophonics. Paul heats things up with “Don’t Want to Let You Go,” and “Moment of Truth.” The songs grow hotter and hotter as Taylor’s sexy rhythm section lends their multi-layered backbeat and energy to Paul’s melody. Overall, Prime Time is passionate, fun, and filled with the freedom in the grooves that have made Paul Taylor one of the most popular and innovative saxophonists and performers over the past decade. Check it out. Click on the CD cover to purchase.
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Warren Wolf
Warren Wolf
Since the days of Lionel Hampton and Milt Jackson, the vibraphone player has held a storied place in jazz ensembles. Their masterful influence on such musicians as Gary Burton, Stefon Harris, Joe Locke, and now Warren Wolf has enabled a new generation of vibraphone and marimba players to expand their musical repertoires with versatile arrangements for the instrument. Warren Wolf, a member of Christian McBride’s band called Inside Straight since 2007, has stepped into the spotlight with his self-titled debut for Mack Avenue Records and it’s a real gem. Wolf is not only accompanied by the album’s producer GRAMMY winning bassist Christian McBride, but also employed pianist Peter Martin, drummer Greg Hutchinson, alto and soprano saxophonist Tim Green and trumpeter Jeremy Pelt on two songs. The program opens with “427 Mass” a bluesy number named for the street address of Wally’s, the Boston bar where Wolf played during his days at Berklee College of Music.Pelt’s trumpet lines are memorable and McBride’s authoritative statements on the bass are remarkable. “Natural Beauties” is a bossa-nova inspired song that features great solos by Martin, Wolf, and Green who plays soprano saxophone on this beautiful song. “Intimate Dance” a pretty ballad in three, is highlighted by Wolf’s rubato solo. The song was written by Peter Martin and ends the 10-track program. Wolf is certainly an artist deserving wider attention as a leader and it’s a sure bet that when his new audiences hear his debut recording, he will surely impress them as the next major voice on the vibraphone
An Evening with Dave Grusin
Various Artists
An Evening with Dave Grusin (Heads Up International, 2011) is a live concert presented as part of Jazz Roots: A Larry Rosen Jazz Series. The event was recorded at the James L. Knight Concert Hall in Miami, Florida on December 4, 2009 and features some of today’s most admired contemporary jazz artists. Grusin, who is well-known for his memorable film and television scores, conducts the 75-member Henry Mancini Institute Orchestra which accompanies such soloists as Patti Austin, Gary Burton, Jon Secada, Nestor Torres, and Monica Mancini in their interpretations of some of Grusin’s film scores. The program includes such Grusin originals as “Fratelli Chase,” the main theme written for the 1985 film The Goonies, the wistful and spirited “On Gold Pond/Hornpipe Medley,” the 1989 Oscar-winning “Suite from The Milagro Beanfield War” and “Memphis Stomp” from the 1983 film starring Tom Cruise titled The Firm. Most of the soloists are featured with the great Leonard Bernstein compositions written for West Side Story. Gary Burton adds his exemplary vibes to “Cool” while Jon Secada and Patti Austin perform their version of “Somewhere.” Secada turns in a stirring rendition of “Maria” and Nestor Torres’ flute depicts the lyrical and fanciful qualities of “I Feel Pretty” which Grusin and Torres have adorned in an innovative Latin jazz style. Two of Henri Mancini’s compositions are also included. His daughter Monica Mancini sings “Moon River” beautifully and Gary Burton and Dave Grusin update Mancini’s theme from “Peter Gunn.” This review pertains to the music sequenced for the compact disc only. For information about the music available on the Blu-ray disc and the ROBA ipadApp, please visit www.jazzroots.net. To purchase the CD, click on the CD cover image.
Bond: The Paris Sessions
Gerald Clayton Trio
Bond: The Paris Sessions is pianist Gerald Clayton’s debut for Decca/Emarcy and was recorded at Studio De Meudon in Paris, France in 2010. Now a double GRAMMY-nominee, Clayton’s award-winning sound is offered in a set of revered jazz standards and original compositions written by his father John Clayton, members of his trio, and himself.The recording combines time honored melodies with modern rhythms which bassist Joe Sanders and drummer Justin Brown perform to perfection. The program opens with Frank Loesser’s “If I Were A Bell.” Clayton’s exquisite pianism gives this time-honored gem a fresh perspective and new rhythmic quality that guarantees your listening pleasure. Performing on the impeccably maintained Fazioli piano, the set continues with “Bond: The Cast” a song dedicated to those who share the ensemble’s drive to dance to the beat and harmony of life through artistic expression. This song swings with the exciting rhythmic style the group has formed over the past years and is the first of the compositions Clayton has dedicated to the various personal bonds in his life. The second musical conversation “Bond: Fresh Squeeze” is inspired by the new friendships in Clayton’s life. The song has a restrained intensity much like that of a new friendship that is growing carefully. The concept of the next bond “Bond: The Release” expresses the realization of the importance of always deepening bonds: the love of family. “Bond: Burn” is the final composition and gives credence to Clayton’s sense of cohesion and harmony. His playing is still as energetic and beautiful as the opening track and commands you to start the entire program again. Although these songs form the core of the album’s concept, Clayton’s remaining contributions and those from Brown (“Snakebite”), Sanders (“Which Persons?”)and his father (“Hank”) are just as interesting and will give you many minutes of listening pleasure. Overall, Bond: TheParis Sessions exemplifies Gerald Clayton’s amazing musical growth and compositional integrity and should be in your music player right now. Buy it today. Click on the CD cover.
CALMA
Omar Sosa
CALMA is a brilliant solo piano offering from the virtuoso pianist and master composer Omar Sosa. His 13 solo piano improvisations arise from his soul with serenity, beauty and peace and are therefore new, complete and unadulterated by the complexities of everyday life. On CALMA, Sosa’s new classical ideas are among the best adagios imaginable from a 21st century artist and rank right up there with such masterful works as Erik Satie’s “Gymnopedie No. 1 and No. 3” or Massenet’s “Meditation” and in some ways – Beethoven’s own serene piano concertos. Composer John Adams has called Sosa, "a deeply creative musician with an extraordinary harmonic sense. His piano playing is sui generis: it has obvious roots in Cuban music, but he's taken his approach to the keyboard into completely new regions." Such songs as “Sunrise,” “Absence” and “Walking Together” evoke a mood of reflection and contemplation and delve deep into the inner sanctums of Sosa’s creativity. His unique combination of acoustic grand piano, Fender Rhodes electric piano, exemplifies Sosa’s imaginative use of multiple-instruments to convey the harmonic beauty of “Innocence,” and the nuances heard in “Looking Within.” Additionally, Sosa’s subtle use of electronic elements lends layers of sonic pleasure that draw you into the music and hold you softly in its peace and tranquility. CALMA is what you, dear listener should retreat to when you want a respite from the distressful headlines. It will bring a sense of calm and offers immunity from the chaos. Buy CALMA now. Click on the CD cover.
A Night In Monte-Carlo
Marcus Miller
Marcus Miller’s latest offering is a spectacular live concert recorded in Monaco with the Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra! A Night In Monte-Carlois one of the best live recordings ever released by the GRAMMY award-winning bassist/composer/arranger and there’s no doubt that you’ll agree after listening to this rich display of musicality by some of the world’s greatest musicians. Joined by an all-star ensemble that features such greats as Roy Hargrove, Herbie Hancock, D.J. Logic, Raul Midon and Miller’s core band of Federico Pena, Poogie Bell, and Alex Han, this set rocks – BIG TIME! With the addition of the L' Orchestre Philharmonique de Monte-Carlo, Miller’s songs take on new dimensions and give additional credibility to his stature as a composer whose music with full orchestration attains the same depth as many symphonic works performed by the world’s leading orchestras. Opening with “Blast” Miller shakes things up. Miles Davis’ “So What” features some stellar blowing by saxophonist Alex Han before Miller expands the song with great bass playing. Roy Hargrove trumpeting is beautiful and romantic on “Amandla,” and “I’m Glad There Is You,” while on the medley “O Mio Babbino Caro/Mas Que Nada” it is spicy and sassy as a complement to the vocals of Raul Midon. The bonus track with Herbie Hancock “Strange Fruit,” is a haunting blues that Miller expresses through his bass clarinet and was recorded in Miller’s Los Angeles studio. Miller’s inspired reading of this song is truly deep. Buy A NIGHT IN MONTE-CARLO today. Simply click on the CD cover image.
Three Stories Eldar
Three Stories is the most recent release by the pianist Eldar who took the jazz world by storm at 12 years old when he appeared on Marian McPartland's Piano Jazz NPR show. The recording is the GRAMMY-nominated pianist's fifth SONY MASTERWORKS album but his first solo release on MASTERWORKS Jazz which is an imprint of SONY MASTERWORKS. The CD features an excellent program of Eldar originals, Jazz standards and Classical music repertoire. Eldar's inspired and innovative renditions of Chick Corea's "Windows," Thelonious Monk's "In Walked Bud," and George Gershwin's "Rhapsody In Blue" are but a few of the more memorable compositions the pianist performs on this recording. The latter includes an amazing cadenza Eldar wrote for Gershwin's iconic work that will no doubtedly be performed by a new generation of piano virtuosos. From the Classical music repertoire, Eldar selected Johann Sebastian Bach's "Prelude in C# Major" and "Air On a G String." These Baroque beauties feature Eldar's deeply instilled classical music training and his affinity for the genre. Both are performed flawlessly. His originals "Three Stories," "Russian Lullaby" and "Impromptu," are new compositions that attest to Eldar's musical growth as a composer and pianist. Don't be surprised if you hear them again in the performance repertoire of up-and-coming pianists as well as those whom have achieved global recognition because of their musical talents. These songs are very good and very accessible. Now that Eldar's virtousic fingertips have left their indelible prints on these time-tested compositions and new songs, listeners will agree that Three Stories ranks high and meets the standard of excellence set in solo recordings by such great pianists as Chick Corea, Omar Sosa, and Keith Jarrett - all of whom have mastered the Jazz and Classical music genres. Give Three Stories a deep listen. You're sure to enjoy it.
Forever Corea, Clarke and White FOREVER, a two-CD set of 18 quintessential tunes performed by Return To Forever members Chick Corea, Lenny White and Stanley Clarke, is an excellent documentation of the acoustic trio that has not been released until now. Recorded live, disc one is a best-of sampler of the trio’s “RTF Unplugged” world tour in 2009. Highlights include jazz standards “On Green Dolphin Street,” “Waltz for Debby” and “Hackensack,” as well as Corea’s classics “Bud Powell,” and “Windows,” Stanley Clarke’s “La Cancion de Sofia,” and original RTF compositions reworked in this acoustic setting. Chick Corea’s pianism is as beautiful and distinct as the original recording…only better. Clarke’s bass playing is as rhythmically logical as ever and White’s drumming sets and keeps perfect timing for these amazing giants of jazz/rock fusion. All of the songs on this disc are awesome but the “Senor Mouse” finale does it for me with its odd time signatures and stunning interplay between the trio. Wow! Disc two features Chaka Khan, violin virtuoso Jean-Luc Ponty and the original Return to Forever guitarist Bill Connors who joined them for a one-time-only gig at the Hollywood Bowl. Connors’ fans are sure to enjoy his performance on “Senor Mouse,” “Space Circus,” and “After the Cosmic Rain,” while fans of Chaka Khan’s amazing vocals will be mesmerized by her rendition of “I Loves You Porgy,” and “High Wire – The Aerialist.” The bonus disc also features Corea’s standard “500 Miles High” which was recorded at the Monterey Jazz Festival. FOREVER is truly a gem and should be in your collection.
Sweet Spot
Mark Winkler
Sweet Spot is Mark Winkler’s latest release and it’s a keeper. This versatile recording features several leading jazz musicians in different formats accompanying Winkler and adding their special visions to each song in just the right way. Winkler’s distinctive smooth baritone and cool phrasings heard on such great songs as “This Side of Loving,” featuring Billy Childs on piano, Robert Hurst on bass, Greg Hutchinson on drums and Nolan Shaheed on trumpet is why his fans keep returing for more.“On Broadway,” Winkler swings hard while on “Some Other Sunset,” featuring the guitar stylings of Peter White, he lends his smooth grooves and easy romantic mood to David Benoit’s popular composition. Anthony Wilson is showcased on “Their Hearts Were Full of Spring,” before Winkler concludes the program with the bonus track “Somewhere in Brazil” (East Coast) a humorous reprise of “Somewhere In Brazil” (West Coast). Sweet Spot is for die-hard Mark Winkler fans who are living “Like Young.”
Providencia Danilo Perez
Danilo Perez’s highly anticipated debut for Mack Avenue Records is absolutely stunning. Providencia crosses streams of jazz, classical and Latin American folk music on 11 great compositions that spark the listener to connect with the creativity and social power of Perez’s musical conscience. In addition to his core trio-mates bassist Ben Street and drummer Adam Cruz, the award-winning pianist/composer is accompanied by such respected musicians as saxophonist Rudresh Mahanthappa, percussionist Jamey Haddad, conguero Ernesto Diaz, vocalist Sara Serpa and a Boston-based woodwind quintet. The set opens with “Daniela’s Chronicles,” which pays homage to Perez’s young daughter. The beauty and love inherent in this piece is deeply moving and suggests Perez’s commitment to musically depict her personality. By contrast, “Galactic Panama” is teeming with excitement as Mahanthappa’s intense saxophonics and Perez’s percussive pianism alongside Street and Cruz’s rhythmic forms gleaned from the tamborito (Panama’s national dance) incite you to submerge yourself into the dynamic feelings of this great song. Perez continues his tribute to his homeland and the concept of global jazz by including a two-part chamber piece for woodwind quintet titled “Bridge of Life” and two tragic love compositions by Panamanian composers Carlo Eleta Almaran (“Historia de un Amor”) and Avelino Munoz’s lovely ballad (“Irremediablemente Solo”). A two-part composition titled "The Maze” concludes the set. The duet between Perez and Mahanthappa features their muscular and jagged playing on “The Maze: The Beginning” and their tender and reflect feelings on “The Maze: The End.” It’s been a long time coming but Providencia is definitely worth the wait. Danilo Perez is a genius and you’d be wise to add this masterwork to your music collection today.
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FAMILY Jeff “Tain” Watts
Jeff “Tain” Watts’ seventh recording as a leader features saxophonist Steve Wilson, pianist Dave Kikoski and bassist James Genus on an interesting program consisting of nine songs. This program is comprised of an unfamiliar original penned by Watts and does not include any of the well-known jazz standards that usually attract a wider array of listeners. However, Watts achieves the proper balance between familiar and unfamiliar by including several well-known musicians on this recording who perform at the height of their virtuosity. Family is the title of Watts’ latest offering and I recommend it highly because as a contemporary work composed during the last few years, Watts’ approach is fresh, and omits the politically-charged themes of his previous recordings.He starts Family with the title track. This song immediately attracts your attention due to his pulsating, syncopated drumming at the intro that is not so overly challenging for the listener. That statement does not mean that the music is simple, but that it’s readily assessable and invites the listener to continue listening. The groove continues with Wilson’s exemplary saxophone solo and Kikoski’s inimitable pianism. Throughout, Watts and Genus keep the rhythm logic happening. Watts’ drumming skills are at the heart and basis of this creative work and his compositional integrity on such songs as “Of August Moon” “Edwardian Overture,” and “Jonesin’ (for Elvin)” are great tributes to playwright August Wilson and drummers Ed Blackwell and Elvin Jones. He integrates his leadership skills with the players’ technique and the result is a cohesive “family” unit that plays some great jazz. Check them out.
