Recorded live on June 7, 1997 at the Paramount Center for the Arts in Peekskill, NY, GROVER LIVE documents 18 songs by the “Godfather”of contemporary jazz, saxophonist Grover Washington, Jr. The hit-filled recording was recently discovered and produced by Jason Miles for G Man Productions. Washington’s only other live concert recording was captured in 1977 with LIVE AT THE BIJOU however, GROVER LIVE contains a treasure trove of his later hits and is a recording that you’ll cherish for years to come. Accompaniedby Adam Holzman and Donald Robinson on keyboards, Gerald Veasley on electric bass, Richard Lee on guitar, Pablo Batista on percussion and Steven Wolf on drums, Washington’s skills as a saxophonist are revealed over and over on such hits as “Winelight”, “Uptown,” “Just The Two of Us,” and of course, Grover’s signature tune “Mr. Magic.” These songs were culled from several of Washington’s previously released albums and also includes “Soulful Strut” which was the title track from Washington’s current offering at that time of this concert. Grover Washington, Jr. plays baritone, tenor and soprano saxes, features sampled rappers, and lets the funk and soul flow gracefully and with amazing resonance from all angles of the stage. For Grover Washington, Jr. fans, this release will give you an insight into how such contemporary jazz stars of today, i.e. Kirk Whalum, Kenny G, Najee, and Gerald Albright, honed their chops and saxophone skills as they followed in the footsteps of the great Grover Washington, Jr. Need we say more. Check out GROVER LIVE and then buy it from the SOTJ store.
EARTHGLOW DAVID BENOIT
The multi-award winning pianist David Benoit has released EARTHGLOW (Heads Up 2010), a high energy hybrid of old school and contemporary jazz, World beat textures, and soulful grooves that are featured on 11 songs. Benoit is accompanied by some of contemporary jazz’s hottest stars including Rick Braun on trumpet, Jeff Kashiwa on saxophone, Pat Kelley’ on guitar and Tim Weisberg on flute, among others. Benoit plays piano, Fender Rhodes, produced and wrote all of the songs on this provocative offering as well as serving as the technology wizard. By using a computer sequencing program to come up with some of the world mix of exotic ethnic percussion and sampled African voices, Benoit created “Straightaway,” “Unbelievable,” “New Creation,” and “Sneaky As A Cat.” “Will’s Chill,” (a homage to will.i.am of the Black Eyed Peas) is a jazz-lounge-Euro-chill styled song that Benoit plays to the Hilt while “Botswana Bossa Nova,” is an eclectic mix of percussion, African voices and Brazilian beats. “Freedom At Midnight, (The Schroeder Variations)” is a vibrant tip of the hat to both the animated Peanuts character and Beethoven since it’s a unique medley of Benoit’s classic 1987 radio hit and Beethoven’s “Moonlight Sonata.” EARTHGLOW is radiant, entertaining and most of all filled with the great pianism that David Benoit is internationally acclaimed for. Buy EARTHGLOW today.
Pianist Marian Petrescu’s explosive debut as a leader for the Resonance Records label features his great pianism as well as an outstanding rhythm section of Andreas Öberg on guitar, David Finck on bass and Mark McLean on drums. The trio skillfully fuses the electric excitement of live performance with the fine-tuned finesse usually emanating from a recording studio on 6 songs with Petrescu giving a commanding solo performance to close out. THRIVIN’ - LIVE AT THE JAZZ STANDARD is the follow-up recording to the GRAMMY award winning RESONANCE BIG BAND “PLAYS TRIBUTE TO OSCAR PETERSON” and Petrescu wastes no time displaying his bebop-laced chops on “Cakewalk” – which by the way was penned by the late, great pianist Oscar Peterson. Öberg’s soloing on this song is a prime example of his guitar virtuosity and the audience lets him know that he’s deft, happening, and in- the- pocket on this impeccably played composition. “Blue In Green” the Miles Davis/Bill Evans gem is absolutely beautiful with its hushed, lyrical romanticism. Andreas Öberg does a great job of telling his version of the story behind the song by using a versatile mix of chord voicings and electronic effects. “My Romance” is also very pretty and Petrescu brings this gem to life with a fresh reading that is sure to soothe and relax. Overall, tenacious, heartfelt, sensitive and versatile are but a few words to describe Marian Petrescu’s exciting performance on THRIVIN’ - LIVE AT THE JAZZ STANDARD.Check it out.
PATHWAYS
Dave Holland Octet
Dave Holland returned to one of his favorite New York jazz clubs - the legendary Birdland - to record PATHWAYS with his incredible new octet. The Dave Holland Octet features several members of Holland’s modern ensembles including Robin Eubanks, Chris Potter, Steve Nelson and Nate Smith. However, Holland has added Antonio Hart, Alex Sipiagin and Gary Smulyan to the front-line to give the band a more flexible range of sounds. Permeating this musical feast are five original Dave Holland compositions including two of his older compositions (“Shadow Dance” which was included on JUMPIN IN, Holland’s debut release, and “How’s Never” which Holland played with the Gateway Trio with Jack DeJohnette and John Abercrombie. Two contributions from Chris Potter (“Sea of Marmara”) and Alex Sipiagin (“Wind Dance") round out the expressive program. It’s very important that you, dear listener, hear and recognize the mature playing of this great octet despite it being their debut. You can be assured that the new Dave Holland Octet will be swamped with invitations to appear at some of the most happening venues around the world. Enjoy.
BOOM TIC BOOM
Allison Miller
Drummer Allison Miller is really cooking on this second solo release as a leader titled BOOM TIC BOOM. She has a unerring sense of swing and moving melodicism and as an inventive composer, she has a gift for memorable tunes that give her bandmates an opportunity to shine on illustrious improvisations. Collaborating with Miller on BOOM TIC BOOM is pianist Myra Melford, Todd Sickafoose on bass and violinist Jenny Scheinman on one track. Miller wrote four of the eight compositions that appear on the CD including “Cheyenne,” “Fead,” “CFS,” and “Big Lovely.” “Be Melting Snow” and “Night” was composed by Myra Melford while evergreens by Mary Lou Williams (“Intermission”) and Hoagy Carmichael (“Rocking Chair”) round out the program. This is one of the better recordings by exciting new drummers. Check it out.
Live at Prague Castle
Pavel J. Ryba & The Fish Men Pavel J. Ryba & The Fish Men performed a live concert at the Prague Castle in honor of Czechoslovakian president Vaclav Klaus. While each member of this exceptional 7-pieceband played extended solos from select songs heard on Ryba’s breakthrough release, the variations of these songs show maturity and command of harmonic language. The performances show both the composer’s ability to write songs that sound bigger and richer than their four or five individual parts initially heard in Ryba's previous bands.Ryba’s vibrant sonics on bass guitar are equally masterful as might be expected from a distinguished artist who has performed before audiences around the world. Joined by Mikolas Nop on drums, Fredy Bittner on guitar, Jiri Kollman on percussion, Milan Krajic on saxophone, Tomas Kremenak on saxophone and accordian, and Petr Valasek on bass clarinet and vocals, the ensemble played several of Ryba's well-known hits including "Morally Topless," "What's Her Poisson," "Smaller Wounds," "Tomorrow Will Be Better," and "Saltation." A cover of Thelonius Monk's "Straight No Chaser," is quite memorable because of Ryba's flair on bass guitar.
Of particular note is the bass clarinet playing os Petr Valasek throughout the recording but especially on "Haven't Got You," and "Smaller Wounds." A gentle melancholy is apparent in the expressive songs, the textures clear, the colors distinct. Several of the songs have an exotic modal cast and the dancing rhythmic urgency of great jazz. In this edition of the Fish Men band, Pavel J. Ryba continues to be bold and write great solos for his band members. Lead guitarist Fredy Bittner's eloquent rock-laced soloing transforms the solemn sound of the bass clarinet into a dramatic world of jazz/rock fusion that is full of soaring lines. Overall, Ryba, has extended his musical skills to include several more musicians and the inspired playing and dedication from each member should make the Pavel J. Ryba Big Band one worthy of wider public attention.
SUNDAY MORNING
RANDY KLEIN
This rare trio featuring a pianist, trombonist and saxophonist is the first in a series of CD recordings by American composer/pianist Randy Klein titled TWO DUOS. This debut project titled SUNDAY MORNING features Klein supported by Oleg Kireyev on saxophone and Chris Washburne on trombone. Eclectic, artful and at times powerful, the trio plays 12 new songs by Klein. “Truly Yours” is a romantic ballad with Kireyev blowing softly as Klein gently comps on piano. The songs has the essence of a tango but it’s as subtle as a graceful swan and just as beautiful. The title track is relaxing, serene and even spiritual as the title suggests. Again, the lead melody is played by the saxophonist and Klein is the accompanist. Overall, these musical conversations present an opportunity for the listener to find pleasure and new ideas of their own in their own interpretions of the music. Check it out. Buy SUNDAY MORNING.
FOLLOWING SIGNS
JUSTIN JANER
FOLLOWING SIGNS is Justin Janer’s debut recording on Janer Music. After hearing this superbly produced and performed collection of original songs written by Janer (except for “Alice In Wonderland”), you’ll soon realize that he has followed those signs well. The award-winning composer/saxophonist is joined by trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire,pianist Fabian Almazon, Sebastian Cruz on guitar, Rueben Samama on bass and Michael W. Davis and Will Clark sharing the drum chair. The title track is a ballad that offers many opportunities for his bandmates to exhibit their chops however, for this writer, the brightest spot on the recording is the opening track, “Bright New Day,” a composition that is uptempo and filled with the copius elements of true jazz – rhythm, syncopation, the harmonic underpinnings of the music and of course, great improvisations. The group interaction is of the highest caliber and the piano of Fabian Almazon encompasses the most forward-looking approach in terms of harmony, rhythm and melody. Janer’s command of his instrument is closer to the spirit of Greg Osby than of Charlie Parker but at times you can hear him painting distinctively modern shapes and curves. Buy FOLLOWING SIGNS from the SOTJ store.
REQUIEM THE KOMEDA PROJECT
Film music buffs may remember the renowned composer Krzysztof Komeda primarily for his haunting motion picture scores Fearless Vampire Killers, Knife in the Water, andRosemary’s Baby. However most free/avant-garde jazz lovers know of Komeda because of pianist/composer/arranger Andrzej Winnicki and saxophonist Krzysztof Medyna – the driving forces behind the collective known as Komeda Project. Their latest project titled REQUIEM, brings Komeda’s music into the 21st century complete with fresh arrangements and with additional interpretations from the rhythm section composed of drummer Nasheet Waits and bassist Scott Colley. “Night-time, Daytime Requiem” is presented in three parts with a new Coltrane-esque feeling. Medyna’s tremendous saxophone concepts, compositional focus and playing style is undoubtedly influenced by Coltrane and his integration of the free-blowing sound streams is a perfect example of his ability to engage the listener with his energy level and upper registers of his horn that lead into Winnicki’s piano concepts which manifest the melodic statements with beautiful skill. Colley’s exemplary pizzicato bass playing answers the pianistic grace offered from Winnicki in Part 2 is simply gorgeous.He never reaches for the bow, never risking losing the momentum of the piece and just plucks steadily and beautifully with mesmerizing tones.Part 3 opens with Russ Johnson’s second thoughts on what is well within the parameters of Miles Davis’ trumpeting in Sketches of Spain.“Ballad for Bernt” provides an instant clue as to Komeda’s intentions for sequencing the session – to blow furiously and then connect to the heartstrings of the listener with a warm ballad. “Dirge for Europe” with Waits’ funeral march drum accents behind Johnson’s trumpet and the soprano saxophone of Medyna, is a probably one of the most telling of Komeda’s laments.Its tragic undertones permeate this composition, making it extremely emotional and solemn. Overall the entire CD is brilliant and pays a beautiful tribute to one of Poland’s most admired modern composers. Click on the CD cover to purchase.
Rumba Foundation
Jesse Cook
Jesse Cook joins forces with the Latin-Grammy winning ensemble Los Gaiteros de San Jacinto with exciting results that are sure to please Cook’s legions of fans. RUMBA FOUNDATION finds the Juno Award winning guitarist so deeply involved with the grand fusion ofrumba/flamenco rhythms and the traditional music known as Vallenato, that he proclaims the recording “perhaps my best yet.” Cook's fans will be attracted to the musical integrity, honesty and uniqueness of this recording because Cook actually traveled to Columbia, South America to record RUMBA FOUNDATION with Los Gaiteros de San Jacinto. Their natural ambience is all over this great recording and every song on this CD gives you the uncontrollable urge to dance, sing, pat your feet. “Bogata By Bus,” “Manolo’s Lament,” and “Gaita,” are especially passionate and give you the instinctive feeling that you are immersed in the culture personally. Cook’s fiery flamenco guitar playing is bold and energetic and coupled with the gaitos flutes on “Gaita” he endears you to the beauty of the world music circuit. His solo rendition of “Rain Day is so beautiful that he rivals many of today’s top flamenco guitarists while Paul Simon’s “Cecilia” sounds great with its Latin-esque backbeats. “Homebound” is surely one of the most beautiful songs you’ll ever hear and there’s no doubt that you will agree that RUMBA FOUNDATION is perhaps Jesse Cook’s best yet. Check it out!
Mosaic Kendra Shank
Kendra Shank’s approach to interpreting jazz has made her one of the more admired vocalist on the jazz scene for several years. Shank’s upbringing (her father is the award-winnng playright Theodore Shank), her collaborators, and her years abroad have helped to season her voice with the kind of flavors that one hears in a master musician’s work. On MOSAIC, she collaborates with her longtime quartet members; pianist Frank Kimbrough, bassist Dean Johnson, and drummer Tony Moreno. Guests Billy Drewes and Ben Monder add their special visions via saxophones and guitar respectively. The repertoire the producers (Kendra Shank and Andrew Rowan) have chosen endears them to loyalists of new compositions as well as those who enjoy the great jazz and pop standards. The set opens with Carole King’s “So Far Away.” Shank brings such sincerity to this song that you forget it has been considered one of King’s most cherished thoughts.Additionally, Kendra Shank is realistic enough to know that her takes on such favorites as “Reflections In Blue/Blue Skies,” “Shining Sea,” and “All Of You,” will not change the musical purist’s love of the originals but her jazzed up versions definitely gives these dusty standards new shelf life. Overall, MOSAIC is a sensitive, inspired, collection of music that provides an exceptional aural experience for fans of Kendra Shank’s expertise and skills as a jazz vocalist.
Lookin’ For A Change
Joe McBride
LOOKIN’ FOR A CHANGE is in a word – awesome. This musical direction has been a long time coming for Joe McBride who has primarily recorded in the electronic format. However this recording features McBride singing on 12 great tracks that include a few originals from him and covers of many pop hits. He opens with “Crazy” the hit made famous by Gnarls Barkley. McBride jazzed it up and makes it the lyrics even more meaningful in this acoustic setting of drums, piano and bass. “This Is How A Heart Breaks,” is given an uptempo treatment with a blues/jazz flavored piano while Seal’s “Kiss From A Rose” is all dressed up in jazz elements and given McBride’s own special twist of R&B. His voice is romantic, sincere but for some unknown reason, he has kept his vocals minimized on other recordings. For this, he sings on every song and listeners are sure to enjoy the change he’s conveying. LOOKIN’ FOR A CHANGE is an extraordinary new sound for Joe McBride and features Elijah Gilmore on drums, Roger Hines on acoustic bass, Dan Wilson on guitar. Five stars. This is one his fans are sure to enjoy.
FROM YUCATAN TO RIO Gabriel Espinosa
Presented by an international all-star ensemblewhich includes Claudio Roditi Romero Lumbambo, Helio Alves and Adriano Santos, FROM YUCATAN TO RIO is the 10-track ZOHO debut of bassist/composer/arranger Gabriel Espinosa. The program is ripe with alluring melodies, rhythms and harmonies that are sure to delight and entertain you. Additional guests include clarinetist Anat Cohen, drummer Antonio Sanchez, percussionist Jacinto Macedo and singers Darmon Meader, Kim Nazarian and Alison Wedding. Gabriel Espinosa’s bass playing is buoyant, swinging and inspired with the Latin flavors of Central and South America as well as those gleaned in the USA as an educator and with the Latin band Ashanti. An inspired cover of Jobim’s “Agua De Beber” sets thing off and certainly gives the listener an impetus to stay tuned. Original songs written by Espinosa and Alison Wedding round out the program and are a mix of bossa novas, the Yucatan jarana, sambas, and mellow, romantic grooves. Check it out and then buy it from the SOTJ store. To purchase, click on the CD cover image.
REMEMBRANCE John Patitucci Trio
As the longstanding bassist anchoring the Wayne Shorter Quartet, John Patitucci has made his mark on jazz history with class and style. His sensitive yet powerful musical statements have delighted audiences around the world and now, it’s his turn in the spotlight once again with REMEMBRANCE. The CD is Patitucci’s 13th recording as a leader and his seventh for Concord Records. Accompanied by guest artists Sachi Patitucci on cello and Rogerio Boccato on percussion, the trio which features Joe Lovano on tenor saxophone and alto clarinet and Brian Blade on drums, this 11-track gem finds Patitucci in his “dream band” a trio format with Lovano and Blade “that had been brewing within him for years.” Patitucci’s sound is bigger and warmer on such songs as “Remembrance” which he wrote for the late Michael Brecker. He also remember other tenor titans as Sonny Rollins on “Sonny Side,” Joe Henderson on “Joe Hen,” as well Monk and Coltrane on “Monk/Trane.” Freddie Hubbard and Ray Brown also get mad props on the bouncy joyful “Blues for Freddie” and on the lazy blues “Play Ball.” This is a great CD and one that should be in your record collection. Buy it today. Simply click on the CD cover.
WHEN THE HEART DANCES
Laurence Hobgood w/Charlie Haden & Kurt Elling
WHEN THE HEART DANCES is one of the loveliest recordings available and is sure to enamor Laurence Hobgood fans. The Grammy nominated pianist shares the beauty in such standards as “Que Sera Sera” “Daydream,” and several others with world-class bassist Charlie Haden and Grammy award nominee Kurt Elling. Hobgood’s choices are incredible and his piano finesse is even more beautiful now that he’s in the spotlight as a leader of this splendid trio. The CD is in stores now and should be in your record collection. Top picks: “First Song,” and the title track. Buy WHEN THE HEART DANCES now. Just click on the CD cover.
FOR YOUR LOVE
Sherry Winston
Sherry Winston’s latest offering continues with the love themes she shared on previous recordings. FOR YOUR LOVE is a splendid collection of original songs and covers of such favorites as Beyonce’s “Naughty Girl,” (on which Sherry samples Donna Summer’s “Love To Love You Baby”) and Sting’s “Roxanne.” The lovely flautist’s sixth recording dares her fans to immerse themselves in the exciting and exotic sounds heard on “Carribean Nites” “Overboard” and the beautiful title track “For Your Love.” The soulful vocals of Lori Anne Williams and Timmy Maia make this song a true keeper and their vision of Sherry’s title song is immaculate. FOR YOUR LOVE is by far one of Winston’s best recordings and a tribute to the loving, creative spirit that inhabits all of her recordings. Jazz flute is simply one of the prettiest sounds you’ll ever hear when played by a master and Sherry Winston is definitely a master. Joined by such luminaries as Phil Hamilton on guitar, Tyger Macneal on drums, Nick Bariluk on keyboards, Steve Clarke on bass, Dennis Hightower and Van Gibbs, among others, Sherry is in her element – one that is warm, inviting and stylish. Sherry dusts off “My Funny Valentine” and makes it shine with updated contemporary jazz flute voicings.This is one great rendition of this favorite American Songbook standard and you’re sure to enjoy how Sherry and her band make it their own. As the record proceeds to a close, the reverent “My Silent Prayer” leaves you with a feeling of peace and serenity that is enhanced by the emotional tones of Winston’s flute voicings. “Sherry Love,” the closing track is an upbeat composition that will have you feeling real good and wondering when Sherry and her band are coming your way! Check it out…for more information visit www.sherrywinston.com to buy FOR YOUR LOVE.
FOREVER & EVER Elizabeth Mis
Saxophonist Elizabeth Mis has the great pleasure of having a mega-hit making producer like Paul Brown and prolific songwriters like Jeff Caruthers and Gerald MCauley work with her on her debut recording titled FOREVER & EVER. The songs are smooth, sexy and exude the professionalism the young saxophonist carries with her onstage. Mis (pronounced Miss) met Brown at one of his concerts and got the opportunity to sit in on his gig in Cleveland and later at the Detroit Jazz Festival in 2008! The title track, which she co-wrote with Brown and Caruthers is a satisfying sonnet that brings on a sense of infinite comfort and relaxation. Her riffs are romantic and the resonance of the soprano saxophone feels good. Which leads to “Feelin’ Fine” another great song that finds Elizabeth serving her laidback saxophonics with some funky sauce on the side. A more tender spirituality informs “In My Corner,” and who doesn’t appreciate those insightful moods that accompany a divine offering. Overall, Elizabeth Mis reminds you of an early Mindy Abair and shows a lot of promise. Elizabeth Mis has something to say and she uses her talent as a saxophonist very well indeed. Check her out and then buy FOREVER & EVER.
ANYTHING GOES Herb Alpert and Lani Hall
ANYTHING GOES is a rare offering by two of music’s most revered masters – trumpeter Herb Alpert and vocalist Lani Hall. The recording is a collection of great songs which were recorded live at venues throughout America and is their first project together as well as their debut recording for Concord Records. Reinterpretations of such Great American Songbook standards as “Fascinating Rhythm” “That Old Black Magic” “Let’s Face The Music and Dance,” the title track “Anything Goes” and “ I’ve Got You Under My Skin” are sure to envelope you, dear listener, in the warm array of emotions often associated with these songs. Hall’s vocals are versatile, inviting and earthy and have that special cabaret feeling that causes the audience to respond often and with warm appreciation. Alpert is the perfect foil for Hall’s voice, there in an instant to fill in the nuance and colors. ANYTHING GOES has something for everyone and is sure to invite their devoted fans back into a brand new musical lair. Buy it today. Simply click on the CD cover.
LOVE & LIGHT
Count Basic featuring Kelli Sae
Count Basic is one of the best bands on the international music scene today. On LOVE & LIGHT, the Vienna, Austria-based band shares their latest worldviews on such subjects as wayward lovers, inner beauty and light, believing in yourself, and letting go of a negative relationship. Kelli Sae’s vocals are rich and tell these stories with authority and from the point of view of someone’s who been there. Peter Legat, on guitar adds a variety of riffs that explain his popularity for the past two decades as one of Europe’s leading composers/educators/guitarists. “Supa Dupa” is funky as it wants to be, and has the stop-on-a-dime changes on the refrain that makes your head bob and feet pat. Sae’s vocals match Legat’s riffs note for note and makes this song a real keeper. “Love Thang” is yet another vehicle for Sae’s dynamic multi-range voice. She has that great phrasing ability that makes this song worth hearing over and over. This is a sure hit. LOVE & LIGHT is definitely happening with its versatile show of songs ..from ballads, bop, R&B, soul, jazz and pop. It’s all there. LOVE IT. Check it out at the SOTJ store. Then click on the image to buy the CD.
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In The Moment
Freddie Washington
Freddie Washington, long known for his killer bass grooves, big portions of funk and for comping some of the best musicians in the industry, has released his first CD as a leader. IN THE MOMENT features 7 original compositions penned by Washington who hired such favorites as Patrice Rushen, Joe Sample, Ray Parker, Jr., Ndugu Chancler, Michael Paulo, Bernhard Penzias, Michael White, Luis Conte, and several other musicians to help give the disc a hip, fresh, imaginative feel. One such song with their hip flavors is the title track which leads off the program. Even though this song has an old school feel that underlines its new urban soundscape, it puts you in the moment -- which is now, not then. Ray Parker, Jr.’s well-known guitar voice takes the lead on “When You Get Right Down To It.” Joe Sample contributes a stellar keyboard solo later in the song that keeps it interesting. “Easy Ride” features Washington out front in a trio setting with Ndugu Chancler on drums, and Johnny Britt on flugelhorn, trumpet and piano, but it takes “Freddie’s Groove” to change the mood and get to the other end of the musical spectrum where Washington has captivated legions of fans with his funky bass chops and grooves. This song is the centerpiece of the CD and gives the entire set a new focus. Dance floor here I come! The ballad “I Can Make It Better,” is melodic and sexy and the type of song that gives those on the dance floor a break! IN THE MOMENT is a decent debut and supports Washington’s endeavor as a bandleader with great production values and world-class accompanists.
OUR DELIGHT
The James Moody and Hank Jones Quartet
OUR DELIGHT is a major release in the world of jazz, especially when you consider the quartet of musicians involved – James Moody on saxophone, Hank Jones on piano, Todd Coolman on bass and Adam Nussbaum on drums – as individuals who are just as dedicated as the quartet of musicians featured on THELONIUS MONK WITH JOHN COLTRANE COMPLETE 1957 RIVERSIDE RECORDINGS. Moody and Jones have bothe traversed a major portion of jazz’s history, playing with a who’s who of jazz along the way. Just as Coltrane and Monk, Moody and Jones have an everlasting appeal to jazz fans and will forever be appreciated for their contributions to the idiom. Here the quartet pays tribute to some of jazz’s greatest players and have included the works of such major composers and players as Dizzy Gillespie, Sonny Stitt, Tadd Dameron, Count Basie, and many others. Moody plays a solid set throughout interspersing his flute and tenor saxophone prowess throughout. However,in his inimitable style,he’s at his best on flute on “Darben The Red Foxx.”This song is one of his originals and places him among the great wind players. Moody and Jones’ approach to such standards as “Body and Soul,” “Woody ‘N You, “ “Con Alma,” and “Birk’s Works,” reflect their reverence for Gillespie’s compositional prowess as well as giving the Heyman and Greene standard a fresh approach.
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TRIBO
SAMBAGURU
TRIBO is a collection of original songs sung in Portuguese, Spanish and English by lead vocalist Katia Moraes out front of the internationally renowned band Sambaguru.Special guests Paul Jackson, Jr., Oscar Castro-Neves, Justo Almario and lyricist Siedah Garrett offer their stunning musical visions to this great collection of songs. Katia Moraes’ voice is sweet and enticing throughout the program and lends another layer of credibility to the 11 songs she composed the lyrics for. Great horn charts and percussive flair also make this CD worth listening to over and over again. The joyous nature of the music should have you up and dancing to its lively flavors that are spiced up with dashes of hot Latin riffs from Justo Almario on saxophone on “Gato e Sapato” while Paul Jackson, Jr. adds his electric guitar finesse to the lovely composition called “Veritate.” This is a great song and finds Katia Moraes in a pensive mood singing beautifully in Portuguese. Overall this recording is a great way to explore the lovely vocals of Katia Moraes and the international flair of Sambaguru – all in one place. Buy it now.
UNIVERSITY OF CALYPSO
Andy Narell and Relator
Steel pan master Andy Narell and calypsonian Relator have “put together a group of world class Latin Jazz cats who can swing the calypso and blow le hot jazz!” For serious enthusiasts and students of the rarely heard musical format- small jazz bands and calypsonians - 15 classic compositions from the Golden Age of Calypso are at your fingertips. As one of the world’s finest calypsonians, Relator aka Willard Harris sings several of his best selling songs including “Gavaskar,” “Food Prices,” and “Radio Stations.” The steel pan master creates his exotic sounds amid the lively calypso rhythms and if you aren’t tempted to get up and dance, well….! Andy Narell also invites special guest Paquito D’Rivera to join the fun on “Pan In Harmony.” The clarinetist solos alongside such accompanists as Dario Eskenazi on piano, Gregory Jones on bass, Pedro Martinez on congas, and Mark Walker on drums. The set also features several songs written by such great calypsonians as Lord Kitchener akaAldwyn Roberts, Lord Melody, Mighty Terror, Roaring Lion, and Spider! Recommended for those with thirsty ears and a love of Caribbean rhythms! BUY THE CD TODAY. Just click on the CD cover.
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SONGS FROM THE HEART: RAMSEY PLAYS RAMSEY Ramsey Lewis
The iconic pianist/songwriter Ramsey Lewis has released his debut recording for the Concord Jazz label. The CD is a refined collection of 12 original compositions that Lewis composed over the course of two years. The recording includes music from two commissioned works for the Ravinia Festival, eight songs from the score of TO KNOW HER, Lewis’ 2007 ballet written for the Joffrey Ballet Company and four from his 2008 MUSES AND AMUSEMENTS suite that he performed with the Turtle Island Quartet. All of the music is graceful, heartfelt and lyrical and is everything Ramsey Lewis’ fans will enjoy. Give it a listen at the SOTJ store and then click on the image to buy the CD.
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PIECES OF JADE
Scott LaFaro
Scott LaFaro was well-known for his collaborations with Bill Evans, Chet Baker and many others before he reached 25. After his death in a car crash at 25, Bill Evans paid tribute to his bass player with several great compositions. On PIECES OF JADE, the bassist is remembered through previously unreleased performances, rehearsal tape and a Bill Evans interview. The Heirloom Series released by Resonance Records fulfills many of the missing memories that today’s jazz lovers had only previously assumed. Show are rare clips never before released to American audiences of LaFaro and Evans working through “My Foolish Heart” and five songs recorded in NYC during 1961 that showcased LaFaro with pianist Don Friedman and drummer Pete LaRoca. Check it out.
NO ONE NEW
Joshua Breakstone
Guitarist/composer Joshua Breakstone has released his fifth CD on the Capri Records label and it’s a stunner. Breakstone is joined by bassist Lyle Atkinson (who has performed with Wynton Marsalis, Kenny Burrell and Hank Jones) and drummer Eliot Zigmund who spent several years playing with Bill Evans and other great such as Benny Golson, Bobby Watson, and Jim Hall. “Over-Done” is a burner with Breakstone’s mastery of the single-note prominently on display in both the melody and choruses. “For Me” is laid-back and features an altered version of “But Not For Me” in its harmonic progression. “The Unknown One” is a touching ballad while the title track, “No One New” is a hard-swinging tune based on “It’s You Or No One.” The song featured Breakstone and Zigmund in a scintillating trading session after Breakstone’s hotter than hot guitar solo. Composition prowess is also highlight in five of the eight tracks written by Breakstone. Check it out. Click on the image to purchase the CD.
The Comet’s Tail: Playing the Compositions of Michael Brecker
Chuck Owens & The Jazz Surge
Led by Chuck Owens, THE COMET’S TAIL: PLAYING THE COMPOSITIONS OF MICHAEL BRECKER pays homage to the late saxophonist. The CD features the dynamic 17-piece Jazz Surge orchestra along with some of Brecker’s most formidable collaborators including Joe Lovano, Mike Stern, Mike Mainieri, Dave Liebman, Adam Nussbaum, Danny Gottlieb, Rob Thomas and his brother Randy. Gil Goldstein and Vince Mendoza also contributed their musical visions to help bring this amazing record to fruition. Several of the songs on the CD are the result of an international competition held in 2006 from which such compositions as “Seed” scored by Fred Stride of Vancouver, BC were selected. “Pilgrimage” Brecker’s last recording, was re-arranged by Goldstein while the remaining pieces selected are culled from several different Brecker recordings. Each arranger retains the original intent of Brecker while coloring them with their own special flair and taste. This is an excellent tribute to Michael Brecker and is one that you will enjoy. Buy it today from the SOTJ store. Click on the image to purchase the CD.
VAGABOND
Spencer Day
Vocalist Spencer Day has released his first CD on Concord Records which draws from his life experiences and the Great American Songbook standards of the past. VAGABOND features Scott Amendola on drums and Jon Evans on bass holding down the rhythm logic as Day sings about seemingly everything – from lost lovers to panic attacks to weeping willow trees; to a call for change. Check him out at the SOTJ store.
