WYCE Music Journal:

STRYKERT AND SLAGLET

KEEPER

July 15, 2010

Dave Strykert and Saxophonist Steve Slaglet are on their fifth album together. ”Keeper” are on their fifth album together. ”Keeper” is the third with Jay Anderson on bass and Victor Lewis on drums. These artists compliment each other in terms of method and talent. I hear a blend of straight ahead jazz with more progressive sound baked into a fine mix. There is passion and you ride from bebop like on “ Sister” and “Convergence” to the mellow and smooth like “Bryce’s Peace” and “Ruby my Dear”, which is a Thelonious Monk tune and the only one they didn’t compose. In jazz, guitar and saxophone often vie with each other to be the main voice. Strykert and Slaglet find balance and more than that, a wonderful easy kind of intersection that makes this cd fun to hear. A bonus is the tracks are a very playable length. To me the excitement of seeing jazz performed can make a 10 minute song feel like a brief interlude but it not on recordings. This cd has a much more realistic time scale, one that works better for radio and (probably just me) attention span when you don’t have the artist right there with you. – Anne Lamont

Quick Links:

DR. LONNIE SMITH

SPIRAL

June 29, 2010

Joined by Jonathan Kreisberg on guitar and Jamire Williams on drums, B3 maestro Dr. Lonnie Smith lays down eight tracks that explore the rich variety of sounds that can be pulled from his chosen instrument. There’s everything here from quiet, introspective numbers where Smith adds color to Kreisberg’s jazzy guitar, "Frame for the Blues", to ecstatic sound blasts, "I’ve Never Been In Love Before", to percussive funk work outs, "I Didn’t Know What Time It Was", to the icy grooves of "Sweet & Lovely" and the silky smooth title cut. Smith’s cover of Harold Mabern’s "Beehive" will have you looking for the sting ointment with its hard hitting attack and frantic pace while his cover of the 1963 classic "Sukiyaki" plays the other end of the spectrum with its easy pace and mellow vibe. While Smith is clearly the focus of the disc, Kreisberg and Williams acquit themselves well throughout with Kreisberg’s guitar work often evoking comparisons to Pat Metheny with his rich, fluid lines and William’s drumming keeping the proceedings in solid order. Smitty

Quick Links:

• Dr. Lonnie Smith
• Palmetto Records

DR. JOHN AND THE LOWER 911

TRIBAL

June 29, 2010

Dr. John has always exemplified the rich musical stew that finds its origin in New Orleans with an eclectic combination of blues, jazz, funk, country, voodoo mysticism and rock. Coming on the heels of his Grammy© award winning "City that Care Forgot", a mostly political rant about the injustices foisted upon his beloved Crescent City, the good Dr. seems to have exorcised some demons and checks in here with one of his most exuberant discs in years. Joined by the Lower 911 and a host of guest horn players and background vocalists he sounds likes he’s having a whale of a time even though he continues to keep his keen eye on social issues. His enthusiasm is contagious with "Feel Good Music" setting the right tone by virtue of its nimble piano work and lyrics about how his music can heal your problems. The title cut incorporates Indian chanting into his muse about how like minded people need to band together and make their own progress. "Big Gap" looks at the distance between the rich and poor with the horns adding life to a cut that would be a dry civics lesson in lesser hands while "Lissen At Our Prayer" calls on the spirits to save us from those that profit by negativity and panic. "Change of Heart" and "Only In America" are surprisingly buoyant given their dead relationship and screwed up state of the state subject matter while "Music Came" celebrates the importance of music with a hot jazz chart and Philly Soul background vocals. "Jinky Jinx" and "Them" are funky work outs with "Them" exploring that mindset that attributes all of our problems to “them” rather than ourselves. "What’s Wit Dat" continues a line of questioning from his 1998 release Anutha Zone’s "Why Come" regarding why we do things such as eating white bread, chips and greasy fries and then wondering why the scales are screaming at us. "When I’m Right (I’m Wrong)" reprises the sentiment of his classic hit, "Right Place, Wrong Time" and is simply a fun listen. After a number of world weary discs where the twinkle in his eye seemed diminished, it’s great to hear the Dr. having a good time without losing his political edge. Smitty

THE STANLEY CLARKE BAND

THE STANLEY CLARKE BAND

June 21, 2010

For those of you like myself who grew up listening to Return to Forever and the first three or four solo releases from Bass God Stanley Clarke, this CD will be a real treat. This is simply put a Jazz fusion masterpiece combining Stanley's electric bass with a whole host of talented players such as the lovely and talented Hiromi on acoustic piano and Ruslan on Synthesizers and electric piano. In addition to the new material, Stanley reworks a couple of his classics for this disc including "No Mystery" originally recorded with RTF in 1975 and the crowd favorite "I Wanna Play For You Too" which is a funky version of "I Wanna Play For You" originally released in 1979. On the track "How Is The Weather Up There?" Stanley mixes vocal spots which spotlights the evils created by global warming. "Sonny Rollins" is a very fitting tribute to the Jazz great. For those of you who have grown up with Stanley, you will love this disc, for those of you newly experiencing this Jazz great, take time to enjoy one of the pioneers of the Jazz fusion genre. Reviewed By: Gregg Saur

Quick Links:

• Stanley Clarke Home Page

VARIOUS ARTISTS

Next Stop...Soweto, Vol. 3: Giants, Ministers and Makers -- Jazz in South Aftrica 1963-1984

June 14, 2010

Strut Records concludes a three-CD set of early South African music by highlighting that country's jazz musicians of the '60s, '70s and '80s. While many prominent artists fled South Africa for the safer and richer shores of the U.S. and Europe, these musicians stayed and kept jazz alive. Some interesting stuff here -- you can hear the roots of what Hugh Masekela wound up doing with "Grazin' in the Grass" in 1968. The Malombo cuts are the ones that fuse jazz and African rhythms the most extensively. That these artists could play so skillfully during a time of great repression is amazing. Such is the power of music. 06/10 Michael J.

Quick Links:

• Strut Records site for this disc
• Review of the three-disc series

ALICIA MENNINGA

Renewal

June 10, 2010

Local pianist and antiques saleswoman Alicia Menninga's third release expands on her first two "Dreamscape" discs -- solo piano with occasional string background to add emotion and light percussion here and there. Alicia calls her songs "dreaming out loud" and she takes off from the opening note of each number and keeps moving up and down the keyboard until the final chord sounds. Each song feels as though she is coaxing you to come along with her on a particular musical journey (and, usually, you're more than willing). Her expressive playing reminds me of Vienna Teng's, but there are no lyrics here to tell you the writer's intent; instead, like her, you're assigned to fill in your own story. The music is expansive enough to handle a variety of dreams, and in this age of bombastic noise and loud opinion, that's a welcome retreat. 06/10 MJVD J-New Age (Instrumental)

Quick Links:

• Alicia's homepage
• Alicia's Facebook fan page

REGINA CARTER

Reverse Thread

June 4, 2010

Jazz violinist extraordinaire and Detroit native Regina Carter received MacArthur Foundation funding (better known as a "genius grant") to infuse traditional music with contemporary stylings -- and still remain true to the past. It appears she put that money to good use and met her goal. "Reverse Thread" takes African and African Diaspora songs and weaves them with current jazz to come up with a unique blend that displays both global roots and modern rhythms. Kora master Yacouba Sissoko provides an earthy foundation to many of the songs. Grand Rapids jazz musician Xavier Davis arranged two pieces in this set (#1 and #10, the latter of which is a combination of an African melody and the gospel standard "God Be With You 'Till We Meet Again"). On "Zerapiky" (#8), Will Holshouser's accordion almost gives the tune first a Cajun feel, then an Irish lilt; that song has the most energy in the set. The opener and the closer are based on field recordings from Ugandan Jews, a community in East Uganda that is not genetically or historically Jewish, but practice the Jewish faith. An amazing musical journey, led by one of the finest musicians -- jazz or any genre -- in the country. MJVD 06/10 J-Roots (Global Fusion)

Quick Links:

• Regina's home page
• "N'Teri" from "Reverse Thread" on video

GIA NOTTE

Shades

May 31, 2010

Margie "Gia" Notte delivers a set of jazz standards with a solid group of session musicians -- in fact, it is the band that make these renditions interesting to the listener (how many times can you hear "Caravan" or "My Funny Valentine" in a fresh way?). Notte can, indeed, sing and she demonstrates her knowledge of the jazz songbook on each track, but thank goodness for Don Bradon on the sax and flutes and Freddie Hendrix on the trumpet and flugelhorn; they add the improvisational spice to these tunes. Prime examples are "Since I Fell for You," "Lover Come Back to Me" and "It Don't Mean a Thing." MJVD 05/10 J-Contemporary (vocal)

Quick Links:

• Gia's home page
• Gia on Myspace

STANTON MOORE

GROOVE ALCHEMY

May 7, 2010

This all instrumental disc features Galactic drummer Stanton Moore, guitarist Will Bernard and keyboard player Robert Walter taking a spin through the roots of funk drumming. Inspired by pioneers like Jabo Starks, Clyde Stubblefield and Zigaboo Modeliste who powered the Meters and James Brown’s 1960’s bands, Moore and crew give modern day listeners a lesson in just how deep a band can get into a groove when it isn’t saddled with the verse/chorus/verse structure of songs involving vocals. Like his prior solo releases Moore is all over each of these tunes but doesn’t burden them with lengthy drum solos or showboating percussion work. Instead, this is a true ensemble recording with most of the color being added by Walter’s work on the Hammond B3. Fans of Jimmy Smith, Ron Levy’s Wild Kingdom or local band Organissimo will find themselves in familiar territory here. Stand out tracks include "Keep on Gwine" which sounds like it could have fallen straight off a Dr. John disc with its rollicking piano groove, "Neeps and Tatties" with its heavily accented beats and scatting guitar on the break, "Knocker" with its Shaft style overdriven guitar and Moore’s deft snare work, the eerie "Cleanse This House" and the down and dirty "Root Cellar". Smitty

SPEAK

Speak

April 19, 2010

Out of Seattle, Speak presents interesting and sometimes improvisational jazz. Featuring keys, reeds, drums, and bass, this quintet offers edgy jazz that while usually melodic, sometimes delves into a tasteful free-form style. The disc starts out strong with "Amalgam in the Middle", a song that rocks with plenty of effects/distortion on Cuong Vu's trumpet. The slower, "People or Cats" is a pretty composition. My favorite piece, however, is the busy "Polypockets", which reminds me of a hive of bees. Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• Speak Website
• Origin Records Website

JOHN ELLIS AND DOUBLE-WIDE

Puppet Mischief

March 15, 2010

This is only saxophonist John Ellis' second release as leader of the quartet, Double-Wide. This guy has been around the block a few times, though, having played for five years with Charlie Hunter, regularly touring with the John Patitucci Trio, and guesting on Gilfema's 2008 release, "Gilfema + 2". This album starts out strong with the funky "Okra and Tomatoes". It then moves to the fun, punchy organ highlights of my favorite, "Fauxfessor". The slower, "Dewey Dah" is a nice minor-key piece with haunting organ throughout. If you like your jazz more bluesy, the last track, "This Too Shall Pass", might suit your taste. Both trombone and sousaphone give some tracks a New Orleans feel; but it's the occasional use of the harmonica that really makes this release stand out from the crowd. Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• John Ellis' Website
• Oblio Sound Site

THE SOULJAZZ ORCHESTRA

Rising Sun

March 6, 2010

Out of Ottawa, The Souljazz Orchestra has released its third album. Melding Afro-Cuban rhythms with hot musicianship and sometimes odd time signatures, Rising Sun is jazz to be reckoned with. The quiet intro leads to one of the highlights of the disc, "Agbara". The next song, "Negus Nagast" was inspired by label-mate Mulatu Astatke...reason enough to like the song; but the fact that it rocks just adds to the pleasure! The slower "Lotus Flower" has a nice groove and features the muted trumpet of guest, Nicholas Dyson (Gladys Knight and the Pips, The Coasters). The rest of this release gets a little quieter. The best of these quieter pieces is "Serenity", with its flute highlights and with the clarinet helping out on the back-beat. This is nice stuff. Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• Strut Records Website
• Souljazz Orchestra Website

NOAH BAERMAN, WAYNE ESCOFFERY, AMANDA MONACO, VINNIE SPERRAZZA, HENRY LUGO

Playdate

March 5, 2010

This is the debut release from childhood friends, Noah Baerman, Wayne Escoffery, Amanda Monaco, Vinnie Sperrazza, and Henry Lugo. While I loved the playful tone of this cd package, the music inside was anything but. This is quiet, melodic jazz, fronted by hollow-bodied guitar, accompanied by piano and occasional saxophone, bass, and drums. Playdate starts out with the almost upbeat "Coppertone", and it gets quieter from there. Don't let the look of this cd fool you! This is music to snooze to. Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• Positone Website

PRESERVATION HALL JAZZ BAND

PRESERVATION

March 3, 2010

Since 1961, Preservation Hall in New Orleans has showcased traditional jazz to the delight of fans from around the world. While part of its charm has always been its stark, decrepit warehouse feel (six benches, no running water, no A/C), the post Katrina era found the venerable hall falling into further disrepair and out of the limelight as a “must see” stop in New Orleans. Worse yet, the musical tradition represented by the Hall faced extinction as displaced musicians followed the receding flood waters to other locations. This benefit disc is intended to reverse both trends by pairing the well oiled blend of upbeat, toe-tapping roots jazz featured night after night at Preservation Hall with vocals from a wide cast of characters from the pop, country, folk, rock, gospel and blues worlds. With a generous 19 tracks, featuring everyone from My Morning Jacket’s Jim James (appearing as his alter ego Yim Yames) to Louis Armstrong and Angelique Kidjo, the disc is not only a pleasurable listen but at times a revelation. Who knew that Ani DiFranco had the playful side evidenced on "Freight Train" or that Tom Waits could sing around his gravelly vocals with such flourish and enthusiasm as on "Tootie Ma Was A Big Fine Thing"? Steve Earle even lightens up from his recent soapboxing for the classic "T’ain’t Nobody’s Business". Other standout tracks includes Pete Seeger’s buoyant take on "Blue Skies", Angelique Kidjo’s torchy jazz on "La Vie En Rose" and the Blind Boys of Alabama’s gospel scorcher, "There Is a Light". While the guests add commercial appeal, they never get in the way of the classic charts laid down by the band. I dare you to sit still while this disc is spinning. Smitty

CHARLIE HUNTER

GENTLEMEN I NEGLECTED TO INFORM YOU YOU WILL NOT BE GETTING PAID

February 22, 2010

This CD certainly has the longest title of any new release and is one of the most accessible Charlie Hunter releases to date. This CD recorded in glorious mono is a guitar player’s masterpiece featuring the signature style of Charlie’s seven string guitar. This release does feature a three piece horn section. But with the exception of the New Orleans track “Antoine” and “High Pockets And A Fanny Pack” and “Drop A Dime” they have a more subdued backing sound. Drummer Eric Kalb joins Charlie for the first time and keeps the rhythm section sound through all nine tracks. It is hard to believe that one guitar can feel the room with this much sound, but then again it is Charlie Hunter. Reviewed By: Gregg Saur

Quick Links:

• Charlie Hunter Home Page

GRP (GABRIEL RIESCO PROJECT)

Sculptures in Time

February 20, 2010

Considering that both music and sculpting utilize the concepts of space, limited by form...blah, blah, blah...this album is a tribute to sculptor Eduardo Chilada, according to the liner notes. This is instrumental jazz, not unlike something you would hear on your weekly smooth jazz radio show or at your coffee shop. Originally from Spain, guitarist, Gabriel Riesco,, has surrounded himself with able musicians from all over the world and who encompass loads of credentials. The musicianship here is admirable, but there is nothing the least bit challenging about this release, except the liner notes, of course. Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• GRP Website

DUKE ROBILLARD & SUNNY CROWNOVER

TALES FROM THE TIKI LOUNGE

February 2, 2010

The ever prolific Duke Robillard follows up last year’s successful pairing with vocalist Sunny Crownover, Sunny & Her Joy Boys, by pairing with her again for this tribute to Les Paul. Modeled loosely after Paul’s recordings with Mary Ford, Robillard provides a jazzy, backdrop to Crownover’s silky rich vocals. Those with a taste for exotic Tiki Lounge music should head straight to the rumba/swing of "Tico Tico", the mysterious sounding "Occidental Woman" first performed by none other than Mae West, the flamenco fueled "Besame Mucho", the strutting "Kiss of Fire" and the percussive "Sway" which get both a straight reading and an edgier re-mix. "Put the Blame on Mame (parts 1 and 2)" puts you firmly into the Rita Hayworth/Glenn Ford film noir classic “Gilda” from which it came while "Smoke Rings" is an unhurried, sexy come on. Robillard and Crownover make the oft covered Willie Nelson classic "Crazy" seem positively fresh with jazzy guitar riffs and vocals that drip emotion. As good as that track is, the duo’s take on the bluesy "I’m Still in Love With You" is so perfectly realized that the song should move from the obscure to the oft covered. While most of the material moves along at an unhurried pace, "Bye Bye Blues" swings pretty hard and "Goody Goody" hits a higher gear as Crownover plots her revenge against an errant lover. Classy from beginning to end this disc evokes thoughts of low lights, hard drinks and close dancing. Based on the strength of this release, we should be hearing plenty from this duo in the future. Smitty

GALACTIC

YA-KA-MAY

February 2, 2010

Galactic has become synonymous with modern New Orleans funk. Escaping the penchant of too many New Orleans bands to recycle the rich catalog that makes up the City’s musical heritage (really, do we need another "Hey Pocky Way" or "Mardi Gras Mambo"?) this disc features the band taking on an aggressive program of all new original material. With body slamming grooves that would make even your bed-ridden aunt Matilda shake her booty, the band joins forces with multiple vocalists to create a disc that veers wildly over the musical landscape. Irma Thomas and John Boutte work their soul magic around the bottom heavy groove of "Heart of Steel" and "Dark Water" respectively. Allen Toussaint takes a break from his normal jazz piano duties to add synthesized vocals to the spacey "Bacchus". Big Chief Bo Dollis powers his way through the rubbery "Wild Man" while Big Freedia checks in with a variation on hip hop known as bounce and Walter “Wolfman” Washington gets sinister to the ambient, moody, "Speaks His Mind". Elsewhere, Josh Cohen and Ryan Scully of The Morning 40 Federation lay down wise guy vocals over the Godzilla stomp of "Liquor Pang". While the guest vocalists get plenty of time to shine, the band doesn’t simply provide a backup groove: it jumps in hard on the instrumental tracks, "Boe Money", featuring Rebirth Brass Band, and "Cineramascope", featuring Trombone Shorty and Corey Henry both of which will warm the hearts of those that have been fortunate enough to see and feel the power of a brass band in action. Always striving to push the envelope, Galactic succeeds here with a disc that will find favor with those with a taste for edgy funk. Smitty

OUT TO LUNCH

Melvin's Rockpile

February 1, 2010

David Levy has done it again as leader of Out To Lunch and given us another album of groove-oriented jazz. Assembled here is a crack team of musicians whose apparent age belies their experience. Out To Lunch takes us on a journey when this album is played from beginning to end. Melvin's Rockpile starts with the slow, ambient piece "Song for the Solstice", goes into the smooth jazz of "Little Neddie Knickers", then works up to the late-night groove of "To the Queen". Things really start kicking with "Sunday in Sausalito", "The Diminutive Swashbuckler", and "Captain Stilts" before the denouement of "Black Tea on Francis Street". Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• Out To Lunch Website
• Accurate Records Website

JASON LINDNER

Now vs. Now

January 15, 2010

Child prodigy Jason Lindner, began formal study of piano, guitar, flute, sax, bass and drums at F.H. LaGuardia High School of Music and Art in Brooklyn. (The school was the location for television series,"Fame".) Since then, he has worked with many big music names, including Wynton and Branford Marsalis, Chick Corea, Jimmy Cobb, and Roy Haynes. Focusing on keys, he has put out several albums; this being the first with his trio, Now vs. Now. This focused team of musicians has put together an album of sometimes ambient jazz. The best example here is "Big Pump" which features Baba Israel doing beat-box vocals and guest sax-man Yosvany Terry. There is also the Latin-tinged "Seven Ways", which has a rockin' moog solo in the middle and nice trumpet work from guest Avishai Cohen. My favorite, though, has to be the ballad, "Friendship and Love". It features the gypsy vocals of bassist Panagiotis Andreou and Lindners' percussive use of the piano toward the end of the piece adds an interesting touch. Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• Anzic Records Website
• Now Vs. Now Myspace
• Jason Lidner's Website

IVAN "FUNKBOY" BODLEY

PIGS FEET & POTTED MEAT

November 24, 2009

When it comes to Bass players that know how to funk it up, it is easy to name Stanley Clarke and Victor Wooten, on this disc Ivan “Funkboy” Bodley demonstrates he is very capable of laying down one of 2009’s funkiest discs. Ivan is no stranger to either funk or jazz as he has been the musical director for the likes of Sam Moore, Martha Reeves & the Shirelles and has preformed with The Temptations, Solomon Burke, Ben E. King and Bo Diddley. His Bass playing most resembles the late 1970’s and early 80’s Stanley Clarke on discs like “I Wanna Play For You”. Ivan describes this disc as feel-good funky music that is unapologetically buoyant and fun, I can’t agree more. I suggest picking up a jar of “Pigs Feet & Potted Meat” at your local record store. Reviewed By: Gregg Saur

Quick Links:

• Ivan "Funkboy" Bodley Home Page

JOEY DeFRANCESCO

SNAP SHOT

November 17, 2009

Certain Jazz recordings fit the timeless category and this is certainly one of them. Joey DeFrancesco a true master of the Hammond B3 reunites with Paul Bollenback on guitar and Byron Landham on drums. It is easy to compare Joey’s B3 sound to the late great Jimmy Smith; Paul has a cool Wes Montgomery or Kenny Burrell sound to his guitar, while Byron Landham rounds out the band with his relaxed approached to the drums. Even though this is a 2009 live recording it has the feel of a Smokey jazz club found in the 1960’s. It is easy to tell that this original trio can anticipate each other as they improvise through seven terrific tracks. I guess that is why I call this recording timeless. Reviewed By: Gregg Saur

Quick Links:

• Joey DeFrancesco Home Page
• Amazon

DIGITAL PRIMITIVES

Hum, Crackle, and Pop

October 25, 2009

This third album from modern jazz trio, Digital Primitives, offers original compositions performed on both modern and primitive instruments, thus the band name. It's fun listening to this just to figure out what's being played. There's not much detail in the liner notes here, but the first song, "Walkabout", is one of the best offerings and, from what I can figure, uses the m'bira and the mouth bow to help keep the beat and a bass clarinet to play the repetitive melody. The effects on the tenor sax make the track "Crackle and Pop" seem more rock than jazz with its kit drums and awesome noise. "Love Truth" is a pretty ballad with tenor sax that crescendos into the ethereal. Is that a "twinger didly bow" that's being used on the track "Hum"? Whatever it is, it reminds me a bit of the sounds that Adrian Belew pulls out of his guitar. Digital Primitives is doing its part to keep the jazz genre fresh with this release. Rebecca Ruth

PONCHO SANCHEZ

PSYCHEDELIC BLUES

October 17, 2009

Poncho Sanchez is a fleet-handed percussionist who knows his way around almost any item that can be beaten, shaked or stirred. So, is this a disc featuring nothing but variations on the dreaded 10 minute drum solo? Not a chance. Sanchez has surrounded himself with a large horn section, a keyboardist and guitarist who end up being the featured course here with Sanchez adding the percussive spice. While the title suggests this to be a blues disc there isn’t a boogie or shuffle to be found. Instead, Sanchez and crew mix up an intoxicating brew of jazz and latin jazz with a number of smoking horn charts. Herbie Hancock’s "Cantaloupe Island", "Con Sabor Latino" and the "Willie Bobo Medley" (the later two featuring vocals from Sanchez) will transport you south of the border in no time while John Coltrane’s "Grand Central" aims more at the head than the hips with its free spirited chart. Those that do dig a short percussion interlude should check out "The One Ways", "Delifonse" and the title track. Each feature relatively brief solos by Sanchez which fit perfectly into the tunes without making you wonder if you should fade the cut before the sound of radios clicking off overwhelms you. Overall, a pretty decent listen. Smitty

BONERAMA

HARD TIMES

October 12, 2009

Four trombones, drums, guitar and bass equals 30 minutes of jazz, rock and soul bliss on this new offering from New Orleans Bonerama. It is easy to see that Bonerama is steering towards a more funky path on this disc and as I experienced watching them in the Crescent City that they know how to steam up a dance floor. The other difference you will notice on this disc is all but the excellent instrumental “Folly” are vocal tracks that are shared by Mark Mullins and Craig Klein. The other big change is the addition of the organ that adds to the funkiness of this disc especially on the cover of “Turn On Your Love Light”. “When the Levee Breaks” is a full out rock track originally penned by Jimmy Page and Robert Plant but certainly brings back the thoughts of Hurricane Katrina. This is certainly one “Hard Times” that you can really enjoy. Reviewed By: Gregg Saur

Quick Links:

• Bonerama Home Page

AZAR LAWRENCE

Prayer For My Ancestors

October 6, 2009

Having performed and/or recorded for decades with the likes of Miles Davis, Stanley Turrentine, and later for Earth, Wind, and Fire, tenor saxophonist, Azar Lawrence has finally assembled a quartet and put out an album of his own (his first since the seventies). Some of this is almost bop such as "The Baker's Daughter", which is upbeat and features a short drum solo. Some of this is smooth jazz, such as "Open Sesame" and the quiet "Under Tanzanian Skies". The piece, "Prayer For My Ancestors", seems to be leading somewhere, but never quite seems to get there. However, the song "Thokole" steals the show. It's a quiet piece featuring nice interplay between guests Ibrahima Ba on vocals and guitar and Amadou Fall on the kora. This one song is definitely the highlight of the entire album and well worth a listen. Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• Azar Lawrence's Website
• Furthermore Recordings Website

Brian O'Neil

Daisy

October 6, 2009

BRIAN O’NEAL – Daisy Regional (Detroit) I have been to two of Brian O'Neal's concerts and both have been excellent musicianship. Brian connects with the audience during and after the concert. An example, he invited some kids up on stage at one of the last numbers to play various rhythm instruments. On his Facebook and Myspace sites he takes time to answer many of his fans comments. He plays the keyboards and drums occasionally. His band consists of another keyboardist, drummer, 2 guitar, saxophonist- alto tenor clarinet, conga player and sometimes brass. His music is jazz hard driving, easy listening and even funk. One of his newest songs "Islands in the Sun" with Rod Tate has a Caribbean beat. He tours with KEM on occasion as a keyboardist O'Neal has shared the stage with many great musicians over the past two decades including Will Downing, Morris Day and the Time, India Arie, Ledisi, Fantasia, Angela Bofill, Stevie Wonder, Maze (featuring Frankie Beverly), Alex Bugnon, George Duke, Pieces of a Dream, Chaka Kahn, Najee, Kindred the Family Soul, and Jeff Lorber. He has also composed and produced music for several artists abroad; including UNV, Kathy Avalon, Eddie Oliver and a host of other upcoming talents. I highly recommend Brian to the WYCE audience and would love to see him in one of GR great venues. – Lowell Anderson, a WYCE Listener

Quick Links:

• Home Page

BRIAN SETZER ORCHESTRA

SONGS FROM LONELY AVENUE

October 5, 2009

It’s been two years since Brian Setzer took on Beethoven and other classical superstars on “Wolfgang’s Big Night Out” While that CD was loose interpolations of Classics, Songs From Lonely Avenue” is a soundtrack to an unwritten film. Brian’s love for not only the music of the 40’s and 50’s but the film noir from that era was the main inspiration for this CD. This is Brian’s most cohesive and arguably finest Orchestra release to date. The CD begins with the fiery sounds of Brian’s guitar on “Trouble Train” and proceeds into a full Orchestra assault. The title track “Lonely Avenue” has a classic 1940’s jazz sound. “Mr. Jazzer Goes Surfin” and “Mr. Surfer Goes Jazzin” are rocking instrumentals that showcase how terrific and underrated Brian Setzer is a guitarist. This is the first Orchestra release where Brian wrote all the tracks and if the movie is half as good as this release is you will not want to miss Lonely Avenue. Reviewed By: Gregg Saur

Quick Links:

• Brian Setzer Home Page
• Amazon

LAVAY SMITH & HER RED HOT SKILLET LICKERS

MISS SMITH TO YOU

September 6, 2009

It has been nine long years since we have been graced by a new CD from Lavay Smith & her red hot skillet lickers. This CD was well worth the wait. Lavay breathes new life into classics like the Duke Ellington tracks “It Don’t Mean a Thing” and “It Ain’t Nothin’ But The Blues” The Bluesy sounds of Clarence Williams track “Need A Little Sugar in My Bowl” and a rendition of “When The Saints Come Marching In” that will surely start a Bourbon Street Parade. As impressive as these covers are the three original tracks “Daddy” dedicated to the great Ray Charles features some terrific piano and trumpet solos. “With My Man” is dedicated to one of Lavays heroes and mentors Etta James. This is a slower jazz ballad that when closing your eyes you can picture an early Etta James singing in a Smokey bar. “I’m Not Evil” is an upbeat bluesy track dedicated to the incomparable Dinah Washington. With this disc Miss Smith has placed her name with the greatest jazz singers past and present and earned our respect. Her red hot band the skillet lickers may be the hottest backing band in the jazz world today. Reviewed By; Gregg Saur

Quick Links:

• Lavay's Home Page
• Amazon

POSITIVE CATASTROPHE

Garabatos Volume One

August 17, 2009

This ten-piece big band comes out of New York with its first release. This is adventurous stuff; indeed some of it might be a bit too challenging for the average radio listener. Many of these songs feature Latin-tinged percussion, such as that found on "Metro Mono" and on one of my favorites, "Plena Quicksand Monument". Another of my favorites, "Post Chordal", features an ascending and descending horn melody that is reminiscent of the Mingus piece, "Fables of Faubus". All in all, this is nice stuff for the discriminating jazz fan, and it just gets better with each listen. Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• Cuneiform Records Website

CURT RAMM, DAN MORETTI, BILL CUNLIFFE

Foundations

August 17, 2009

This is a contemporary jazz release of all original compositions, a few of which could be categorized as bop ("Little Bit"), and some of which could be called smooth ("MM&D" and "Podunk"). Some of it can have a little soul ("K-Funk" and "Zone Seven") and some can have a nice groove ("Totem Dance" and "Get In Line"). There is nothing spectacular here. It is capably performed versions of uncomplicated, adequately-written pieces. Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• Foundations Jazz Records Website

ED PALERMO BIG BAND

Eddy Loves Frank

July 21, 2009

To put it in a nutshell, this is Ed Palermo's big band covering the compositions of Frank Zappa. After performing the music of Zappa for some fifteen years, this sixteen-piece band knows what it's doing. This isn't note-for-note covers. The band puts its own stamp on the music, while keeping it recognizable. This is Zappa for the big band jazz fan. It also satisfies this Zappa fan. I'm not all that into covers or tribute bands, but this band plays the complicated stuff well and with respect for the composer. Give it a listen, Zappa fan or not, you might just like it. Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• Cuneiform Records Website
• Ed Palermo Website

DIZZY GILLESPIE ALL STAR BIG BAND

I'm BeBoppin' Too

June 22, 2009

In celebration of Dizzy Gillespie's big band legacy, former Dizzy alums John Lee (bass) and Slide Hampton (trombone) got together to form the Dizzy Gillespie All Star Big Band. They updated the sound by bringing in new blood such as Antonio Hart (flute)and Roberta Gambarini (vocals) to perform Gillespie's compositions. Modern day trumpeter, Roy Hargrove, is also here, not only to blow his horn, (He's featured on "I Can't Get Started".) but also to blow his own pipes on vocals for the title track. There is other fine trumpeting here from Claudio Roditi as well on "Birk's Works". Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• Dizzy Gillespie Website
• Blue Note Records

BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY

HOW BIG CAN YOU GET ?

May 26, 2009

BIG BAD VOODOO DADDY HOW BIG CAN YOU GET? This CD is tribute release to the late great Cab Calloway. The songs on this disc jump alive and bring back the charisma from one of the finest band leaders ever in the Jump Jazz genre. Cab passed away in 1994, but he passed his torch on and his music will live for generations to come. Big Bad Voodoo Daddy Would make Cab proud on this release with their signature high energy sound including a larger horn section then was found on the original tracks. Scotty Morris can not duplicate the authentic vocal sound that made Cab Calloway a legend but he can certainly bring his listeners back to a simpler time when Jazz was the music of the day. Reviewed By: Gregg Saur

Quick Links:

• BBVD Home Page

NOMO

Invisible Cities

May 17, 2009

Most of this album was conceived and recorded during last year's Ghost Rock tour. Producer Warren Defever convinced these east coast boys (east coast of Michigan, that is) to come to his UFO Factory studio the morning after the tour ended. The studio is located in Detroit's Eastern Market and the streets were littered that morning with post-market garbage. Some of the refuse included street sweeper tines. Defever collected these and fashioned electric kalimbas. These and other re-purposed items can be heard throughout this production. This album has hot horns and percussion that are often accentuated by bamboo flute, synth noise box, and, of course, the aforementioned kalimbas. Hot tracks are the title track and "Bumbo", both of which provide a solid percussion base for the sometimes wandering horns. "Crescent" features home-made electric kalimbas and congas accentuated by a bamboo flute to make for a nice groove. Rebecca Ruth.

Quick Links:

• Ubiquity Records
• Nomo's Webesite
• Nomo Myspace

Branford Marsallis

Metamorphosen

May 11, 2009

As on his recording Requiem, dedicated to his longtime friend and pianist Kenny Kirkland, Branford Marsalis dedicates this recording to his mentors, friends, and jazz icons who had passed away prior to its recording. The CD varies between his tenor or alto saxophone celebratory-led post and neo-bop compositions, or the somber, reflective slower songs featuring the soprano sax of Marsalis. This exceptional band, together for ten years, with drummer Jeff Watts, bassist Eric Revis, and pianist Joey Calderazzo, communicate with utter confidence and the mastery of expert professional musicians who need few verbal or charted cues to spring forth into action. Thelonious Monk's influence is recognizable on the jagged edged, quirky Watts composition "The Return of the Jitney Man," the straight, no-frills hard bop chaser "Jabberwocky" where Marsalis borrows a page from the book of Charlie Rouse, a take of "Rhythm-A-Ning" moves from straight-ahead to staggering funk, with most of the intact original line phrase, while "Sphere," composed by Revis, is an original angular adaptation of Monk's style without much paraphrasing . A tribute to the late actor, "Abe Vigoda" is a crusty and dusty ballad, "The Blossom of Parting" a reverent, sad song for the departed, and "The Last Goodbye" a similarly themed ballad, all with Marsalis on the soprano. Perhaps the most original piece is "And Then He Was Gone/Samo," featuring an extended solo from Revis, intentionally messy and frustrated, followed by the finale, a funky 7/8 soul and spirit song. A fine, emotional and heartfelt effort from Marsalis, one of his best since Requiem, it faithfully pays tribute to those late heroes like Alvin Batiste, Michael Brecker, Freddie Hubbard, Dewey Redman, Max Roach, Willie Turbinton, et. al., while also staying true to himself.

ALLEN TOUSSAINT

The Bright Mississippi

May 11, 2009

Legendary New Orleans jazz pianist, Allen Toussaint, puts muggy New Orleans evenings to music with his new release, “The Bright Mississippi.” Despite being his first solo jazz release in more than ten years, the album is confident and perfectly performed. Mr. Toussaint’s talent for understated arrangements comes out here. The accompanying performances, particularly that of Don Byron on clarinet, are equally impressive. “The Bright Mississippi” is available from Nonesuch Records in April, 2009.

CLUTCHY HOPKINS (Meets Lord Kenjamin)

Music is My Medicine

May 11, 2009

Multi-instrumentalist Clutchy Hopkins is still being promoted as a mystery man of sorts. If you seek information about him, you’ll find wild stories and unsubstantiated facts. Basically, he’s traveled the world, investigating consciousness and its relation to music. He’s studied under Zen monks in Japan, a Raja yogi in India, and a master percussionist in Nigeria, amongst others. Along the way, he’s made some great music, attempting to utilize the lessons he’s learned in the last thirty-some years. This is a typical Clutchy album. It’s full of drum ‘n bass beats, punctuated with organ, flute, electronics, melodica, and various home-made instruments. This is innovative and funky dub at its groovin’ best. Rebecca Ruth

MELODY GARDOT

My One and Only Thrill

May 11, 2009

Cool, hip, sophisticated retro, jazzy, sultry, lush and did I mention cool. Put on your smoking jacket. This is date and martini night music. Melody Gardot is a 23 year old singer-songwriter hailing from Philadelphia. A standout track is #9 My One and Only Thrill. Her take on track #11 Over the Rainbow is Latin-cool....very enjoyable. What a voice. Welcome to Casablanca and play Melody Gardot again Sam.

DAVE SIEBELS

With Gordon Goodwin's Big Phat Band

May 4, 2009

Composer, record producer, keyboardist Dave Siebels has been around, having composed for television, film, and having worked with the likes of BB King and Ray Charles. What's gotten him noticed, however, is his work on Pat Boone's "In a Metal Mood" release. (It was his concept and he produced it.) Gordon Goodwin heads a big band, and this band is tight. This is an album of B3-focused contemporary big band music. Most of these compositions are Dave Siebels'. The musicianship is admirable (Check out "The Cat" with Sal Lozano's cool flute solo.), but some of this comes awfully close to smooth-jazz. Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• Big Phat Band Website

JOSHUA REDMAN

Compass

March 4, 2009

Harvard-educated Joshua Redman provides an interesting musical experiment on this latest set -- employing two bassists for most the cuts, one in each channel, and at times doubling up on the drum section as well. The "double trio" format is unusual and Redman wasn't sure that the arrangements would work: Would the music be too "bottom-heavy" and weighted down? The results, on the contrary, are striking and most of the "doubling up" sessions made the record. I think the emphasis on the rhythm gives the songs a fresh feel and actually make Redman's fine sax playing stand out all the more. I liked the cuts that build up steam as they progress, such as "Faraway" and "Identity Thief," plus the generally upbeat selections "Hitchhiker's Guide" and "Round Reuben." For the upper crust, there's a unique interpretation of Beethoven's "Moonlight Sonata." J-Esoteric 03/09 Michael J.

Quick Links:

• Joshua's Web site
• Redman on youtube

THE JAMES TAYLOR QUARTET

New World

February 24, 2009

While James Taylor may be considered a master of the Hammond, he says he was inspired to make this piano-based album by the baby grand piano that he was storing for a friend. There is, however, plenty of Hammond, clavinet, and Fender Rhodes here to go around. While this band may be tight with their studio recordings, I think this leans more toward smooth jazz than on their more upbeat and interesting live releases. (Check out the albums "Live at the Jazz Cafe" or "Whole Lotta Live".) There is still some mildly interesting stuff here such as the opening track which features Gareth Lockrane on flute. The best track most definitely is "Hotwire" with its quick horn bursts and high-hat taps. Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth.

Quick Links:

• James Taylor Quartet Website
• Kudos Records Website

MADELEINE PEYROUX

BARE BONES

February 3, 2009

Madeleine Peyroux Bare Bones This is Madeleine’s third release and may be arguably her finest. Madeleine’s smoky vocals & downbeat sounds take her listeners through her most personal music journey to date. The first track “Instead” start with “Instead of feelin’ bad, be glad you’ve got somewhere to go” I take this as her version of Bobby McFerrin’s “Don’t Worry be Happy”. The title of this CD comes from a book from a book that was penned by a Buddhist Nun that dealt with how to deal with things as they fall apart and heartfelt advice for difficult times. This title track especially brought meaning with the loss of Madeline’s father. The track “You Can’t Do Me” is the most upbeat track & has lyrics that are both fun & probably the lightest hearted track Madeline has ever penned. The downbeat sounds of this disc may not be for everybody, but after a couple listens you can see how this talented singer, songwriter has crafted her skills and lifted her music to a higher level. Reviewed By; Gregg Saur

Quick Links:

• Madeleine Peyroux Home Page

THE BAD PLUS

For All I Care

January 24, 2009

The Bad Plus took a chance, going in a different direction with this one and some fans (including myself) don't care for the disparate sound. What's so different? Well, they've added the vocals of Wendy Lewis (Minneapolis alt-band, Redstart). I think her decision to do the vocals in such a straightforward manner was a good one, I would just rather they weren't there at all. As far as the production itself, it seems to have been mastered "hot" (that is with the needles far into the red). Everything is a bit muffled and even the bass sounds tinny and over-worked. The best songs here are the older classical pieces, such as Igor Stravinsky's "Variation d'Apollon", Gyorgy Legeti's "Fem Etude No.8", and the Babbit/Freed piece, "Semi-Simple Variations". Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• Heads Up Website
• Bad Plus Website

MIKE FROST PROJECT

Live

December 26, 2008

Being from Michigan, I can't listen to this Chicago-based jazz combo without comparing them to our own Organissimo. MFP's organ-driven sound seems more rooted in classic jazz, however. Their take on Charlie Parker's "Buzzy" is wonderfully upbeat. Sonny Rollins' "Pent Up House" gets the treatment as well. Their original compositions hold up in their own right. Take "Wake Up"; its percussion lends it a lounge-type feel. Another original piece, "Aw Geez", features some nice B3 licks and a walking bass. While I found the crowd noise on this live album to be a bit distracting at times, I think overall, this is a fine release. Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth.

Quick Links:

• Blu Jazz Productions Site
• MFP Website

MORGAN CHILDS QUINTET

Time

December 26, 2008

This is the debut album by Vancouver native and drummer, Morgan Childs. Recorded live, at a club in his home town, this album recalls the bebop quintets of the fifties and sixties. From the opener, which features a nice bass solo from Sean Cronin, to "Re-Entry", which is an upbeat tune with fine horn-blowing by saxophonist, Evan Arntzen, this is some damn good jazz! Check out my favorite, "Powell's Prances" and be amazed at how tight this band can be when performing live. I can only hope that they will be touring in our area soon! Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth.

Quick Links:

• Cellar Live Site
• Cellar Jazz Site

THE JAMES MOODY & HANK JONES QUARTET

OUR DELIGHT

December 15, 2008

On November 17th , the James Moody & Hank Jones Quartet on the IPO label released “Our Delight”, a collection of jazz favorites/standards by two legendary names on the Jazz scene. With “Our Delight” the theme was to pay tribute to the music of Dizzy Gillespie (tracks 2, 3 & 10) and Tadd Dameron (tracks 1,4, 7 &9). The album starts off with (1) Our Delight (T.Dameron), the title cut, a classic with Moody’s soaring tenor sax and Jones’ complimentary accompaniment on piano; the solos were delightful and free. That’s the one thing I love about jazz is how “free” you are to express your musical ideas at a split second. I love the way the quartet took this classic and executed it to its fullness while leaving you wanting for more. The next offering was “Birk’s Works (Gillespie) a smooth classy jazz tune, with Moody’s laid back sax intro really sets up this tune nicely, while listening to this track, I could imagine the great Dizzy hitting the notes with his trumpet, and The Quartet represented this song very well. My favorite on the album is track 4“Lady Bird” (Dameron) a smooth offering of a classic that doesn’t disappoint, it’s a very soothing track that could relax even the most stressed out mind. As I listened to the whole album one thing came clear to me, that this is how a classic jazz album could keep with tradition and yet bridge the gap between young and old jazz enthusiasts. “Our Delight” was a “delightful” fun album that I truly enjoyed from the first note to the last.-Corey Jones

Quick Links:

• HANK JONES INFO
• JAMES MOODY & HANK JONES' ARTIST PAGE

MARY RADEMACHER & RICK REUTHER

Two of a Kind

December 5, 2008

Local jazz musicians and long-time collaborators Mary Rademacher and Rick Reuther team up for a set of duets, mostly standards with an original (#10) and a chestnut or two thrown in for good measure. Maybe it's just my ear, but Mary seems to have the jazz chops here; I like her voice and phrasing. Rick's lines don't have the same zing. I also wish they would have resisted following the "Two of a Kind" theme to the nth degree -- with each trading lines back and forth on every song. That alone would have given the set some variety. Hard to recommend any one track here, although I liked their choice of late night comedian king Steve Allen's "Something Big" (#3). Song to avoid? "You Smell So Good" (#7), complete with sniffing sounds at the conclusion. 12/08 Michael J.

Quick Links:

• Mary Rademacher's site

ERIN BODE

The Little Garden

December 5, 2008

St. Louis based Erin Bode's third release continues her journey from interpreter to songwriter. Her debut contained all covers as she modeled Eva Cassidy, an early influence; her second set contained a bunch of originals along with covers of Paul Simon and Mick Hucknall. This time, it's all Erin and/or her piano playing compatriot Adam Maness -- except for another Paul Simon song, "Born at the Right Time," which she does very, very well. She starts out strong with two fine compositions, "New England Friends" and "Chasing after You" -- and then pretty much keeps up the quality throughout. You can argue that this is NOT a jazz release, especially on the gently paced title track, but Bode and her band grew up steeped in the genre and those rhythms seem to be the basis for most of what's happening here. "Genre boundaries are being blurred these days," she says, and certainly at this station we applaud the creativity. 12/08 J-Contemporary (Vocal) Michael J.

Quick Links:

• Erin's homepage

Lois Deloatch

Hymn to Freedom: A Tribute to Oscar Peterson

November 10, 2008

Lois Deloatch’s Hymn to Freedom is a tribute album to pianist/vocalist Oscar Peterson who passed in 2006. This classy jazz vocal album and Lois has a very soulful voice with depth and she does an excellent job of balancing it. She starts off with Down by the Riverside(1) which is an old gospel hymn and Moanin’(2) which was nicely done. Next is Honeysuckle Rose (3) a nice rendition of a Jazz classic and with the guitar and bass solo adding a nice flavor, this is one of my favorites on the album. Also another favorite is the Jazz standard “The Very Thought of You” (track 4) that Lois displays her vocal depth and understanding of how it should be done. Lois went on the sing “Hymn to Freedom” (6) which sounds like a gospel anthem, as well as a rendition of Auld Lang Syne(track 10). This is a very delightful, thoughtful jazz album as should be with a tribute album. I thought that at times though that some of the slow tunes kind of dragged on like on “My One and Only Love” (7) and “Stardust” but over all; this is a nicely done album.-Corey Jones

Quick Links:

CASSANDRA WILSON

Loverly

November 9, 2008

America's most daring and versatile jazz singer goes back to where she started, with interpretations of some of the genre's best-known standards -- and, of course, she knocks them out of the park (e.g. "Lover Come Back to Me" and "Caravan"). But because she goes where others fear to tread, Wilson also includes "Wouldn't It Be Loverly" from "My Fair Lady" and makes it her own, and plunks two blues classics right in the middle of the set ("St. James Infirmary" and "Dust My Broom"). Uh huh, they are way good. Guitarist Marvin Sewell's funky opening on "St. James" sets the table for Cassandra's vocals and James Moran's end-to-end piano work. Fabulous. Check out Sewell's effort on "Dust My Broom," too. The entire set was recorded in a rented house in Jackson, Mississippi, and has the feel of a band working out their favorites. I'm glad they shared them with us. 11/09/08 Michael J.

Quick Links:

• Cassandra's homepage
• Cassandra talks about the record on youtube

SAXOPHONE SUMMIT-(Michael Brecker, Dave Liebman and Joe Lovano)

SAXOPHONE SUMMIT

October 27, 2008

Michael Brecker, Dave Liebman and Joe Lovano, three of the most prolific and innovative saxophonists in jazz, have played together periodically since 1996 as an experimental trio known as Saxophone Summit. Saxophone “battles” have traditionally inspired musicians to play their best. But more than just a cutting contest, this gathering is a multi-faceted musical equation greater than the sum of its parts. - Publicity

JAVON JACKSON

– Once Upon a Melody

October 27, 2008

A Celebration of the Melody. Songs by Sonny Rollins, Wayne Shorter, McCoy Tyner, and Corinne Bailey Rae. Javon says, “Once Upon a Melody is a project that gives me the chance of documenting select recordings that have special meaning to me. Wayne Shorter’s “One by One” takes me back to my time with Art Blakey and the Jazz Messenger’s, the period that shaped my manhood. Sonny Rollin’s “Paradox”, in tribute to a man who has meant so much to me, musically and personally. Ramsey Lewis’ “The In Crowd” is a piece of music I have always wanted to play as I heard it regularly in my home during childhood. McCoy Tyner’s “Inner Glimpse” represents my first opportunity to play with McCoy. I was working with Freddie Hubbard and Mr. Tyner came by the venue where we were performing and joined us for one song and we played this very composition. The melody “Like a Star” was suggested to me by a promoter who thought that this melody would be a good fit for me. I was not familiar with the song or the artist. Thanks to Greer Smith, I thus became aware of singer songwriter Corinne Bailey Rae and now listen to her music often. Lastly, “Will You Still Be Mine” and “My One and Only Love” are also melodies I have wanted to record and perform for many years.” - Publicity

BELINDA UNDERWOOD

- GREENSPACE

October 20, 2008

Portland Oregon has certainly been a booming town for turning out talented young musicians & Belinda Underwood is no exception to this rule. This multi-instrumentalist singer, songwriter has made a CD that will sooth you through a Sunday morning or a lazy afternoon. Her vocals will relieve your tensions & any troubles you may encounter during your day. Although Belinda has her own style, this CD will appeal to the early listeners of Diana Krall. Belinda’s band included the talents of Benny Green on Piano and Phil Baker on Bass. Most of this CD is well done downbeat vocal jazz with the exception of the excellent instrumental “Seeing Red”. One other standout track is Belinda’s experimentation with eastern influences on the Oasis. My recommendation is pour a drink, sit back, relax & let Belinda take you to the end of the day. - Gregg Saur

IDIT SHNER

- TUESDAY’S BLUES

October 20, 2008

IDIT SHNER - TUESDAY’S BLUES Idit Shner (tenor sax) release of “Tuesday’s Blues is a must have for any jazz lover, it’s a tale of nursery rhymes and ancient melodies from the Jewish liturgy in a jazz setting. The album starts off from track one (Yellow Moon) with an upbeat groove that from the first note you get the feeling Idit Shner and band mates are going for the gusto. After “Yellow Moon”, she soothes the listener with a mellower tune with track (2)”Elisheve Doll “, next is the peppy “Tuesday’s Blues” which is one of my favorites. I love the bass walking and Idit on sax solo (she even throws in a little “If I only had a brain/heart from the Wizard of Oz) which was very clever. I also loved the solos of Stefan Karlsson (piano); Steve Pruitt (drums) on this track. The majority of this album is traditional songs from Israel with a jazz interpretation, sprinkled with some originals like the title cut and “The Peacocks”. This is a really good jazz album, I enjoyed all seven tracks and this was my first experience listening to Idit Shiner but it will not be my last.-Corey Jones

Randy Brecker

- Randy in Brasil

October 13, 2008

Spectacular! A Melodic Latin Jazz recording from modern-day legend, the great Randy Brecker. Randy in Brazil was produced and arranged by Ruria Duprat at the popular Banda Sonora Studios in Brazil and features an amazing band formed around some of the best and most famous Brazilian musicians (including Ricardo Silveira) whose resumes read like a 'who's who' of Brazilian stars. Choosing the material from the files of Djavan, Ivan Lins, Gilberto Gil and Joao Bosco, Randy includes two smokin' hot originals for a tasty Latin production. You'll dig it; this is Brecker-Special! Randy Brecker has been shaping the sound of Jazz, R&B and Rock for decades. His trumpet and flugelhorn performances have graced hundreds of albums by a wide range of artists from James Taylor, Bruce Springsteen, Chaka Khan, George Benson and Parliament-Funkadelics to Frank Sinatra, Steely Dan, David Sanborn, Horace Silver, Jaco Pastorius and Frank Zappa. His solo recordings and rich performance history over the last five decades, as well as the wonderful Brecker Brothers efforts, have received international critical acclaim and have helped place Randy into a “living-legend" status. – AllAboutJazz.com

Quick Links:

YELLOWJACKETS

- LIFECYCLE

October 6, 2008

The Yellowjackets are: Jimmy Haslip (elec. Bass), Russell Ferrante (piano, keyboards, and percussion), Marcus Baylor (drums, percussion), Bob Mintzner (tenor & soprano sax, bass clarinet) and special guest Mike Stern (guitars) You would think that a group that’s been around over 25 years would come up dry but the Yellowjackets are a picture of longevity on the Jazz scene. The Yellowjackets have done it again! Lifecycle is a smooth yet edgy jazz/ fusion classic in the making with special guest Mike Stern on guitars. There’s not one cut I didn’t like on this album. I especially liked track (5) measure of a man (R.Ferrante) which featured a polyphonic conversation between clarinet and guitar, with dissonant chords on piano. The improvisation on this piece is great and you can still subtly hear the main musical thought as the soloist play. Track (9) “Claire’s Closet” has a classical sound that is a change of pace at the beginning of the piece and the jazz piano solo is delightful, Russell Ferrante reminded me a little of Bill Evans with his solo. Overall, this album gets 5 stars and “Lifecycle” is bound to get Grammy considerations in my opinion. -Corey Jones

Quick Links:

JOHN PATTON

Soul Connection

September 30, 2008

John Patton passed away in 2002. This is a re-release of a 1983 album. This is some fine jazz, featuring Mr. Patton on the B3 organ. To sum this thing up, I'd have to say that the best song is the title track with Alvin Queen being an absolute monster on the drums. Then there is "Pinto", a big band/blues piece. "Extensions" offers some nice fretwork from Melvin Sparks on guitar. All the musicians have a moment to shine in the swinging "Space Station". The last tune, "The Coaster" has a nice groove while featuring Grachan Moncur and Grant Reed blowing their horns with muscle. Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth.

Quick Links:

• Justin Time Records

MATT BELSANTE

– Blame it on My Youth

September 29, 2008

I was driving down to Nashville when I discovered this CD, and felt strangely uncomfortable when I first misread the title to be “Blame it on my Mouth.” The cover features several seductive-looking photos of Matt, and I was thinkin like ‘dude, you’re not selling this record to me on based on those pouty looks.’ Then add the fact that jazz standards generally need to have a little somethin’ special for WYCE to play ‘em, so this album initially had two strikes against it. Still, after listening, I like this record. Its an obvious nod back to Frank Sinatra, and fittingly so. The young Belsante grew up listening to Frank’s records on his grandfather’s lap. I like this kid, he can just as easily go and record a top 40 album next and then something for CMT, but hey for now we have an album of big band & jazz standards--hopefully some originals some day. -Pete

Quick Links:

EVA CASSIDY

– Somewhere

September 29, 2008

This album contains all unreleased tracks, including two originals, that are definitely worth exploring but this is definitely no Live at Massey Hall 1971. These recordings were left off other albums for a reason. The publishers are banking on the sentiment that anything from Eva is worth checking out, and they’re probably right. – Pete

FUMOSONIC

– Love is Everything

September 29, 2008

This could be categorized under the Jazz categories of Contemporary, Electronic, or Latin, and the World categories of New Age, Global, or Funk. The themes are deep and spiritual, about love, the earth, and self-examination. Love is Everything is now more than just a refreshing viewpoint—its an enjoyable release. -Pete

Quick Links:

• Fumosonic's website

ROBIN MC KELLE

Modern Antique

September 15, 2008

Robin McKelle's second release builds on her debut, with more confident singing and more risk-taking in material. Yet I'm not sure the opener, Steve Miller's "Abracadabra," was really necessary: I actually think her reading of it and the arrangement is very good, but that wince-producing line -- "Abra, abracadabra/I want to reach out and grab ya" -- is not exactly Cole Porter. Some big winners on this disc are the standards "Comes Love" (I almost expect to hear Raul Malo join her) and "Lullaby of Birdland" and she does well on "Lover Man" and "Cheek to Cheek." Mc Kelle has become one of the best current interpreters of the American jazz songbook. If she's going to venture into jazz-ing up rock tunes, I'd like to see her follow Cassandra Wilson's example of choosing from WYCE's artists. 09/08 MJVD J-Contemporary (Vocal)

Quick Links:

• Robin's homepage
• Her Myspace page

PAT COIL SEXTET

Bird House

September 15, 2008

This Nashville resident has tons of professional experience. If you watch television, you’ve probably heard him. He’s composed and/or performed theme music for just about every national television newscast. He’s done numerous TV series such as LA Law, Tonight Show, Murphy Brown, and Star Trek Voyager. He’s also toured with Diana Ross, Gladys Knight, Pat Methany, and Stan Getz to name a few. Now, he’s put together a talented group of musicians and made a classic jazz album. His fine piano playing is featured in the upbeat track entitled, “Think Again”. George Tidwell plays a mean trumpet and Jim White has a fine touch on the high hat in the title track. This is all in all a fine contemporary jazz album. Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• Pat Coil Website
• Liberty Hill Music Website

Ted Nash & Still Evolved

– In The Loop

September 15, 2008

A smooth jazz album that will instantly put you in a relaxed mood; a solid piece of music which seemingly flows from one track to another. Play this on a loud stereo and let it fill the room at a party or while reading a book. Check out tracks 1 “Kensington High”, and track 6 “The Cubist”. – Lane Z

Quick Links:

• Ted Nash's website

PISTOLERA

EN ESTE CAMINO

September 12, 2008

While latin music in a language I’d largely forgotten (despite my two years of Spanish in high school) isn’t necessarily my thing, after a couple of listens to the sophmore effort of Brooklyn based Pistolera, I was widely impressed. Thanks to their website that offered a translation of their lyrics into a more understandable form, I was able to listen with new ears the second time around. The album kicks off with the catchy and hope-filled dance track Nuevas Ojos (New Eyes). While this optomistic view is heard throughout, the second track, Piloto (Pilot) perhaps exemplifies this the most as it sheds some political light on border control by offering the following simple and yet heart-felt lyrics: “one door close and another opens. There is always a way out.” Another standout albeit melancholy track is the accordian driven Inquieta (Restless) which delves beautifully into reminiscing about the past. This is followed by the horn-driven and political Extranjero (Foreigner) that reminds us all that we are all foreigners so “don’t forget it.” As a fan of Bob Marley, I was pleasantly surprised to hear Pistolera tackle his Guerra (War) – yet another standout track on this recording. To hear raggae with the latin percussions and in another language was truly a treat and proved to be a winner on all accounts. Overall, Pistolera’s release En Este Camino was a pleasant surprise to me and I trust will offer you a bit of a surprise as well if you’re willing to give it a listen. ~Reviewed by Jeff Bouma

Quick Links:

• The Official Pistolera Website

INARA GEORGE WITH VAN DYKE PARKS

An Invitation

August 2, 2008

Lowell George's daughter Inara makes the "father-daughter" music she always wanted -- but not with dad (R.I.P.), but with longtime friend of the family (and Little Feat producer) Van Dyke Parks. But this is neither Feat, nor like her other projects; instead, it is an orchestral jazz song cycle that's more like Sinatra's 1955 concept record "In the Wee Small Hours" -- songs intended to be heard together, evoking a mood by listening to the total set. Some stand just fine on their own, such as "Right Or Wrong," "Duet" and "Dirty White." But listening to just one song isn't the aim of this production (and watch out because the segues are tight, on purpose, I'm sure). Interesting -- and challenging -- release. Dad's probably pleased to watch his daughter confound the critics, just as he did. 08/08 MJVD J-Esoteric

Quick Links:

• Inara's Myspace page

VARIOUS

Rumble In the Great Lakes (Best of the Detroit Jazz Fest 2007)

July 4, 2008

This double-disc release is some good jazz! The Stanley Jordan Trio's take on Miles Davis' "All Blues", The Classical Jazz Quartet's version of the Brandenburg Concerto #2, and the Gerald Wilson Orchestra's performance of Duke Ellington's "Perdido" are all highlights...and that's just disc one! Also, if you like blues, check out "Up South" by the Russell Malone Quartet. The guest saxophonist, Grace Kelly, was only 15 years old when this was recorded! Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• Mack Avenue Records Website
• Detroit Jazz Fest Website

JEFF COFFIN MU'TET

Mutopia

June 26, 2008

Jeff Coffin is a saxophonist and a member of The Flecktones. He calls his band a "mu'tet" as opposed to a quintet, etc. because the musicians are constantly changing (or mutating...get it?). This is an album of contemporary jazz. It features some guests you may have heard of, including Roy "Futureman" Wooten on drums and Kofi Burbridge on keys and flute. "Al's Greens" offers the trading bass solos of Felix Pastorius and Victor Wooten. The upbeat "Bubble Up" features Bela Fleck on banjo. The New Orleans-style "Move Your Rug" has an entire guest horn section featured prominently. Native instruments give my favorite, "L'Esperance" a North African feel. Make sure you check out the reggae styling of the hidden ninth track, too. Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth.

Quick Links:

• Jeff Coffin's Website
• Compass Records Website

STRING PLANET

Songs From the Home Planet

June 13, 2008

String Planet is Novi Novog on viola and Larry Tuttle on the Chapman stick. They played together for fifteen years in the band Freeway Philharmonic. Now, they've formed String Planet and their sound is...instrumental fusion? Sometimes it sounds like Stephan Grapelli, sometimes like something from Bela Fleck, sometimes like average smooth jazz or even muzak. The songs are hit and miss. The best ones being the re-make of the Sergei Prokofiev piece, "Love For Three Oranges", the Edvard Grieg piece, "Anitra's Dance", and Camille Saint-Saens' "Carnival of the Animals". A couple of coll originals are "Big Pig Jig" and "Pepe the Circus Dog". Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• String Planet Website

The End of Times Orchestra

Meets Eno Diamond

May 26, 2008

The End of Times Orchestra is from Grand Rapids Michigan. They have been the house band for the Super Happy Fun Time Burlesque show for two years. They are a group of six multi instrumentalists. The six comprise eclectic arrangements from orchestral rock, folk and jazz. The melodies are complex to down right confusing. As soon as you get used to a time signature in a song they change it on you. Their jazz tracks remind you of good ole Dixieland, with a slight modern twist. The signing style is vibrato to the V; it is like Queen on steroids. – Intern Andrew

Quick Links:

• The End of Times Orchestra Myspace page

Bill Frisell

History, Mystery

May 26, 2008

Grammy winning jazz guitarist Bill Frisell is back with an octet and a pair of CDs. The material was mostly recorded live in 2006 from the Lisner Auditorium in Washington DC, the Hopkins Center in Hanover NH, and the Berklee Performance Center in Boston. The two disc set features mostly originals inspired by Frisell’s collaborations with visual artist Jim Woodring, and also covers from Sam Cooke, Thelonious Monk, Lee Konitz, and Boubacar Traore. Frisell’s career spans over 30 years and 100 recordings.

Quick Links:

• Bill Frisell Website

NICHOLAS PAYTON

Into the Blue

May 18, 2008

Nicholas Payton's first outing for Nonesuch gets the talented trumpeter back to recording in his New Orleans hometown, but don't expect loud and brassy 'Nawlins jazz. Instead, Payton explores the "blue" and "blues" side of jazz with generally quieter and reflective pieces -- although you will hear the occasional influence of Louis Armstrong in this work. You'll also hear Miles Davis. Payton calls Louis and Miles the "Old and New Testament" of jazz trumpeters. "Nida" and "The Charleston Hop" are the most up-tempo pieces in this set; I also liked the beauty of "Chinatown" and "Drucilla." The trumpeter adds his own vocal to "Blue." 05/08 MJVD J-Contemporary (Instrumental)

Quick Links:

• Current Nicholas Payton home page
• Payton's Verve home page
• Comprehensive Payton bio

SIMONE

Simone on Simone

May 18, 2008

Lisa Celeste Stroud carved out a successful career on stage with lead roles in "Rent" and "Aida," but there was another artistic muse calling out to her, and no wonder: she's Nina Simone's daughter. Three years after her mother died, Lisa did a tribute concert in New York and the response to that evening began her development as "Simone," a jazz/blues singer. This disc covers 11 of Nina Simone's songs with the original arrangements, plus a tribute song from daughter to mother, titled "Child in Me." The upbeat numbers are #2, #3, #6, the gospel-organ-fueled #8 and #11. The classic "Black is the Color" starts as a quiet piece and then picks up a catchy beat and new lyric. Mom plays the piano on the opener, one of the few times Nina and daughter were on the same stage. The young woman can sing. A legacy continues. 05/08 MJVD J-Roots(Vocal)

Quick Links:

• Koch Records Simone page
• Simone's World Web site

THE BRUBECK BROTHERS QUARTET

Classified

May 12, 2008

Chris Brubeck has created an impressive piece of work with his "Vignettes for Nonet" composition on this album. All three movements were written for woodwind quintet and jazz quartet. They successfully combine elements of classical and jazz music with the help of musical guests Imani Winds on woodwinds. Chris plays bass and trombone on this album and is joined by his brother, Dan, on drums and Chuck Lamb on piano. Mike DeMicco plays guitar and also contributed the third track, "Eclipse" with guitar parts that sound inspired by jazz guitarist, Grant Green. In case you were wondering, yes, Chris and Dan are jazz legend Dave Brubeck's sons. The last track on this album is their take on their dad's "Blue Rondo a la Turk". The addition of woodwinds and trombone gives this song a New Orleans feel. Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth

Quick Links:

• Brubeck Brothers Website

KEITH MARKS

Foreign Funk

May 12, 2008

Keith Marks is a thirty-five year veteran of the entertainment scene. This flute player is joined by Pete Levin on keys, Donald Nicks on bass, Wally Watson on drums, and Lou Volpe on guitar. Together, they've made a smooth jazz album that, except for two original songs, is all covers. The best song is the slightly funky, original title track. While this album is a bit too "easy listening" for my taste, it might play well for a Sunday morning brunch. Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth

JALEEL SHAW

Optimism

May 8, 2008

Jazz to this reviewer is both a discipline and an art form. It can be done horribly wrong or oh-so right. Jaleel Shaw provides a wonderful example of how jazz is done right. He is the real deal. The Philadelphia-based and Grammy nominated alto saxophonist delivers a level of maturity and awareness on his second release as a leader that harkens to his long standing tenure with the Mingus Big Band. The band here reaches back to the archives that defined the genre, with Lage Lund on the guitar, Robert Glasper on the piano, Joe Martin on the bass, Jonathan Blake on percussion and Jeremey Pelt supporting Shaw on the trumpet and flugehorn. Optimism is a deep contribution to jazz. High-points are the opening track, "Flipside," with vague references to Thelonious Monks' "Straight, No Chaser" and the woven tapestry, "The Struggle," with its homage to the soprano sax work of John Coltrane himself. If you like the jazz classics, you'll love this album. -- Daniel Graeber

Quick Links:

• Jaleel Shaw

JAKE BERGEVIN

Holding Back the Dawn

April 25, 2008

Jake Bergevin blazed onto the Seattle jazz scene with his hyphenated singer-trumpeter style a few years back. Bergevin takes that intimate approach that can only be enjoyed completely with a nice deep red wine that makes you feel oh-so romantic. A great jazz newcomer ,Bergevin takes the soft road with a smoky mood reminiscent of Frank Sinatra himself, oddly with shades of Elvis Costello. Interesting to enjoy the self-accompaniment here and a pleasant surprise. "Holding Back the Dawn" is a romantic gesture with a strong backing group. Highlights include "The Girl with No Regret" and "Coming all Undone" – though it narrowly escapes being a cover of the Duran Duran hit "Come Undone," though maybe that was his point. This reviewer is not a huge fan of the crooners, but this is nice. The vocals are more part of the overall ambiance than the showcase. -- Daniel Graeber

Quick Links:

• Official Jake Bergevin Home Page

CONNIE EVINGSON WITH DAVE FRISHBERG

Little Did I Dream

April 25, 2008

Jazz vocalist Connie Evingson adds to her deep songbook in her eighth release crooning the tunes of Dave Frishberg, who interestingly enough, wrote everyone's favorite Schoolhouse Rock ditty "I'm Just a Bill." Though sadly not on this album, Evingson's work shines through on the tongue-in-cheek hit, "My Attorney Bernie" and the swinging "Zoot Walks In." Evingson displays great range and variety in this 14 song showcase featuring Frishberg on piano. "I've been in love with Dave Frishberg's work forever," Evingson says. The Minneapolis-St. Paul "City Pages" describes Evingson as "sly" and "sinuous" as "she wraps herself in Frishberg's song." This album brings witty fun together with a romantic flair that has come to be synonymous with Evingson decade long career. -- Daniel Graeber

Quick Links:

• The Connie Evingson Home Page

ELISABETH KONTOMANOU

Back to My Groove

April 25, 2008

This is a very powerful, soulful album. Rich and developed, Elisabeth Kontomanou belts out a very personal and retrospective album. Sassy and smart, Kontomanou has a stick-it-in-yer-face-and-listen-hear-boy delivery that packs a filthy little punch. Her backing orchestra is tight and just as outfront as Kontomanou, especially during the musings of the 8-minute-mural "Black Angels." Diva describes this one to a tee.-- Daniel Graeber

Quick Links:

• Elisabeth Kontomanou on MySpace

Stanton Moore Trio

Emphasis (on Parenthesis)

April 22, 2008

This is another fine album from the Stanton Moore Trio, featuring Will Bernard on guitar, Robert Walter on keys, and of course, Mr. Moore on drums. This trio knows their stuff, presenting fresh, creative, modern jazz. This disc starts out with the blues-y "Late Night at the Maple Leaf". Then, it gets more driven with the almost Zappa-ish "Proper Gander". Check out the toy piano solo on the third track, "Wissions (of Vu)". The seventh track, "(I Have) Super Strength" has a real nice groove to it. Reviewed by Rebecca Ruth in April 2008.

Quick Links:

• Stanton Moore's website

Raya Yarbrough

Raya Yarbrough

April 14, 2008

Sultry, seductive, bluesy, jazzy & beautiful are just a few of the adjectives to describe the voice of Raya Yarbrough. Raya started singing jazz at the age of seven and it’s easy to see how the classic artists like Nina Simone, Clifford Brown & others have shaped her musical style. It is also easy to see that Raya doesn’t want to be pigeonholed into being just another Jazz singer as she opens with the bluesy “Lord Knows I Would” & then shifts gears into the Reggae flavored “You’re So Bad For Me”. Several tracks have a certain Pop feel to them & the ending up-tempo “Better Days” Raya has a vocal scat that makes this listener believe she has many better days ahead. - Gregg Saur

Quick Links:

• Raya Yarbrough's Website

Brad Mehldau Trio

Live

April 14, 2008

Live is the second release from The Brad Mehldau Trio with Larry Grenadier on bass and Jeff Ballard on drums. In the trio setting, Mehldau has habitually rotated between the studio setting and the live setting. Live finds the trio a few years along in its development, and the interchange between the three members unfolds with a different kind of ease. Live is the fourth Mehldau trio release recorded at the Village Vanguard club in New York City, and the songs were culled from performances that took place there October 11-15, 2006. The record begins with “Wonderwall” from the band Oasis. Another great cover is “Black Hole Sun”, an arrangement of the song from the band Soundgarden. Live features 5 original compositions of Mehldau’s. 4 of them are released here for the first time. – Joe Parsaca

Travis Sullivan's Bjorkestra

Enjoy

April 14, 2008

This effort from Travis Sullivan brings you the music of Bjork Gudmundsdottir in a large jazz ensemble. Blending Bjork’s visionary techno pop with the harmonic andimprovisational elements of modern jazz, composer, arranger, andmulti-instrumentalist Travis Sullivan has created a truly uniqueensemble that transcends genre and style. Comprised of New York City’s finest jazz musicians, this eighteen-pieceensemble features full horn and rhythm sections as well as talentedvocalist Becca Stevens, performing Sullivan’s arrangements that spanBjork’s entire catalogue. – Joe Parsaca

PAUL RENZ QUINTET

Rebop

April 12, 2008

Paul Renz is a teacher of the jazz genre. Earning high accolades while on tenure at the West Bank School of Music and as resident jazz guitar teacher at MacPhail Center for Music in Minneapolis, this is his first venture fronting a quintet, with Anders Bostrom on flute, Nathan Fryett on drums, Eric Graham on bass and Brian Ziemniak on the Hammond organ and piano. When I think jazz guitar, I think Wes Anderson and to some extent Les Paul and maybe a side helping of Hot Rats-era Frank Zappa. This was more along the lines of mid-1970s Steely Dan maybe without the lyrics. Not that that's a bad thing, mind you, but I was somewhat disappointed here. Maybe that's a genre thing. I was expecting Frank Zappa-esque frontman interpretations and some real novel use of the electric guitar in a jazz quintet, but Renz only seemed to use brass phrasings here. I was hoping for a bit more ingenuity, but local reviews of the album hail it as a fresh contribution to modern jazz. All Renz originals, save a Bud Powell homage on "Un Poco Loco" - Daniel Graeber

Quick Links:

• Paul Renz Home Page

BOBBY WATSON AND THE LIVE AND LEARN BAND

Fronm The Heart

April 12, 2008

Bobby Watson has been at it for over twenty years now, throwing out 26 recordings as a leader in the post-bop jazz scene, and appearing in nearly 100 other bands. He's played with everyone – from Dianne Reeves to Max Roach to Branford Marsellis. He played as a sideman in the ubiquitous Jazz Messengers group alongside the legendary Art Blakey. What's not to admire? The alto sax here is bright and up front, just where I like it. He gives plenty of room for his sextet, with Leron Thomas on trumpet, Harold O'Neal on piano, Warren Wolf on vibes, Curtis Lundy on bass and Quincy Davis on drums. All band originals referencing Watson's legacy as a leader. A legendary performance by a legendary saxophonist. - Daniel Graeber

Quick Links:

• Official Home Page of Bobby Watson

3 Na Massa

3 Na Massa

April 12, 2008

The only other review I could find on this album compares it to early Jane Fonda a la Barbarella, Fellini movies and drools over the "lush musings of a smoky-voiced Brazilian siren cooing in Portuguese." Me-oww! This reminded me a lot of an early afternoon combing through the racks of Banana Republic, with the cool bop playing in the background over, yes, some smoky-voiced Brazilian siren cooing in Portuguese. It was sort of like Portishead, but a bit more slutty and in a foreign language. That's probably the best comparison, really. If you like Portishead etc this may be worth checking out. Had its high points and low points, though. The first track, "Certeza" (both "certainly" in Portuguese and a brand of tequila for those on the look out for sexual innuendos) is the hook of the album by far. The name of the band here, to add fuel to the sexual overtones, means "three in the dough" or Portuguese slang for something that makes your mouth water. Overall a good album, but maybe fell a little flat on repetition by the half-way mark. A helluva debut though, I'll give it that. 3 Na Massa takes hold of you like one too many martinis on a first date well on its way past second base. - Daniel Graeber

Quick Links:

• 3 Na Massa on MySpace

ADONIS ROSE & THE N.O. VADERS

Untouchable

April 4, 2008

Adonis Ross launches his debut release on his own House of Swing Records with the noted flair of many jazz percussionists. "Untouchable," released with his band, The N.O. Vaders, reaches back to his New Orleans roots. He's been a staple in the New Orleans jazz scene, earning a "Contemporary Jazz All Star" nod by New Orleans Magazine. Ross played with such notables as Harry Connick Jr. and played and arranged the score for Spike Lee's HBO documentary on Hurricane Katrina. This is the fourth solo recording from Ross, and the first in nearly a decade. The style here reaches back to the big band days with a touch of swing and bop. The band includes Rose on drums, Leon Brown on trumpet and the occasional vocals, Steve Walker on trombone, Jason Stewart on bass and Fred Sanders on piano. The album features several notable references to Brazilian composer Ivan Lins on his "Setembro" and tackles the mighty Freddie Hubbarb's "Suite Sioux." Rose contributes two pieces here with "Mellow Moods" and the short-but-sweet "Let's Get Funky." -- Daniel Graeber

Quick Links:

• Adonis Rose on MySpace

VICTOR WOOTEN

PALMYSTERY

April 1, 2008

Mr. Wooten is the master bass player but he, nonetheless, has struggled to find his niche as a solo artist. Palmystery is a huge improvement over his last effort. There seems to be a middle ground that has been found, although this album encapsules many different genres and styles while remaining colorful and loose. It would mostly fit a jazz/world combo genre, keeping in mind it does at times gravitate towards funk, fusion, and even gospel. Maybe for his next solo effort, Victor could narrow it down to sound more like a complete piece. All in all, some fabulous tracks here, including a cover of Horace Silver’s “Song For My Father.” Muskegon-native Derico Watson on drums! Stand Out Tracks: #5 Left, Right and Center #7 Miss U #8 Flex #9 The Gospel Reviewed by LaRae WYCE Music Review Committee WYCE Programmer

Quick Links:

• Victor's Official Website

Jeff Coffin & Charlie Peacock

Arc of The Circle

March 31, 2008

Arc of The Circle, a duet recording by Flecktones saxophonist Jeff Coffin and pianist Charlie Peacock isn't exactly like anything you've ever heard. This is high-risk improvisational music, first with production and arrangement coming second. Historically speaking, it bears some resemblance to early Dewey Redman/Keith Jarrett collaborations. With some aggressive Coltrane/McCoy type moments. There's also a little Stravinsky, Copeland, Ives and Hindemith influences peeking through channeling famous cartoon composers and mixing in some cut-up, glitch-pop electronics with leap frog intervals, even with all the eclectic influences, the music remains bluesy and essentially American. These 2 major improvisers and friends including Marc Ribot, Derrek Phillips, Tony Miracle, Ken Lewis and Joe Murphy create yet another surprising hybrid of jazz/ not jazz, and stretch the boundaries of even the most current' beyond jazz' categories.

DAVID "FATHEAD" NEWMAN

Diamondhead

March 30, 2008

Seventy-five-year-old David "Fathead" Newman's latest release, titled "Diamondhead," invokes one word and one word only … Ahhhh. Now, call me a purist, but this is the jazz that defines the genre. Newman has been at it for nearly 60 years now, playing with the Ray Charles band for 12 years and later with Herbie Mann for another ten. The title track, "Diamonhead" is rife with references, seemingly taking a note from the Eddie Harris's "Compared to What," though it takes a brief moment halfway through to pay tribute to George Gerswhin's "American in Paris." His cover of Billy Joel's "New York State of Mind" gets a nice make-over with Newman grabbing for the flute. All in all, a great album. I listened to it over and over again and found new little gems each time. If you like the classics, like Coltrane or Miles Davis, this would do well on your shelf. A definite must and nice to have yet another contribution from a jazz legend. -- Daniel Graeber

Quick Links:

• Official home page of David "Fathead" Newman

Karen Blixt

Mad Hope

March 24, 2008

On her second CD she collaborates again with arranger/producer Frank Martin (Stevie Wonder, Sting, Patti Austin, Angela Bofill, Al Jarreau, Dori Caymmi) in a program of 7 originals; instrumentals by John McLaughlin and Paul Desmond to which she set vocals; and covers that are not standard vocal fare like Joe Zawinul’s “Shadow And Light” & Charlie Parker’s “Billie’s Bounce” in a remarkable arrangement featuring bass clarinet and bassoon. Blixt’s all-star band of Abraham Laboriel, José Neto, Alex Acuña, Will Kennedy and Patrice Rushen is joined by guests Randy Brecker, Sheldon Brown, Paul Hanson and Kenny Washington. “On Mad Hope, we wanted to produce some really different material,” Blixt said. “Different in the sense of going beyond simply re-interpreting the Great American Songbook. That meant writing new material in a variety of ways, using several odd-meters and different feels like jazz/funk, Latin/world, ballads and straight ahead jazz.” An astounding recording that delivers confident, assured and radiant vocals through an incredibly diverse and creative selection of songs. – All About Jazz

Quick Links:

• Website of Karen Blixt

Caribbean Jazz Project

Afro Bop Alliance

March 17, 2008

Vibes superstar &leader of the Caribbean Jazz Project Dave Samuels has combined forces with the high energy Latin based jazz sounds of Maryland’s Afro Bob Alliance. The result is a big band Latin jazz extravaganza. Featuring 5 original tracks by Dave Samuels as well as interesting covers from jazz giants John Coltrane, Dizzy Gillespie & Thelonious Monk. Combining the sounds of Cuba, Africa & the Caribbean This CD is sure to please fans that enjoy the spicy sounds of the Marimba, hot brass & Latin Percussion. This CD should be a must for any backyard deck party. - Gregg Saur

Panthelion

Life After 339

March 17, 2008

“I figured it out on my third listen. Well, I should have already known, as Andrew Currier already told me in a previous interview that he is trying to create “a new body of standards” with his solo debut, Life After 339. When he initially said this, I though to myself: good, another young musician in the Bay Area trying to make a difference. But after repeated listens to his record, the true significance of this “body of standards” idea came to light. Like great tunes of yesteryear, such as “Take the A Train,” or “So What,” or “Goodbye Pork-pie Hat,” Currier’s compositions are catchy and memorable. That’s it; that’s the basic formula for all great music, be it Bach or Chuck Berry. And Life After 339 has got this going on in a major way. With much thanks to the aforementioned infectiousness, this entirely original album is relevant and vibrant, rather than retro and vacuous. Once more, performance and production-wise, the level of Life After 339’s artistic execution is highly professional and pristine. This fundamental aspect perpetuates the music’s twenty-first century validity without compromising its earthy, head-bobbing, and succulent flavor. With learned, tasteful abandon, composer, conceptualizer, and producer Currier also serves as the album’s aural axis – specifically, as standup bassist and pianist. And although the album is tinged with bebop and tropical grooves, its instrumental line-up somewhat recalls that of jazz’s “cool” period, with drumkit, tenor sax, and muted trumpets flowing throughout, as well as vibraphones and strings. However, in the songs with strings, these classical sounds seem to inform each respective piece rather than sprinkle them.” - Dave Kostiuk (CD Baby)

Quick Links:

• Panthelion's Website

CARMEN LUNDY

Come Home

March 13, 2008

Carmen Lundy has been at it for three decades now. “Come Home,” her latest release, brings this jazz singer full circle with her 10th release. Lundy describes the CD as accomplishing “everything I’ve wanted to musically.” Her vocal range brings, to this reviewer at least, Sade to mind, though the comparisons could be made to Sarah Vaughan and Ella Fitzgerald. She even played Billie Holiday in an off-Broadway production. The Village Voice says of Lundy, “She’s got it all.” And this album is proof positive. Scat and bop make way for Brazilian flavors on this 12-track feature. This was nice. Recommended as a contemporary expression of jazz vocals. Highlights include “Nature Boy” and “Something Happened.” -- Daniel J. Graeber

Quick Links:

• Carmen Lundy's Web Site

Various Artists

Monterey Jazz Festival 50th Anniversary All-Stars

March 10, 2008

The Monterey Jazz Festival is the most revered musical celebrations in American history. Stars from Thelonious Monk, Freddie Hubbard and Duke Ellington graced the festival with their jazz orations and the festival brought out other acts, such as Big Brother and the Holding Company, Sly and the Family Stone and Roberta Flack, not to mention the perennial favorite, Dizzy Gillespie. So, it was with much anticipation that I opened the 50th Anniversary All-Stars legacy album. As I popped the record in for its first listen, I was excited to see the All-Stars on a spring tour supporting the festival's main cause of raising money for music education. The liner notes laud the band; be-bop jazz saxophonist and Gillespie-vet James Moody, Monterey vet and former member of the festival's Next Generation Jazz Orchestra Benny Green also on sax, Grammy award winning trumpeter Terence Blanchard, and a strong supporting cast featuring veteran vocalist Nnenna Freelon. But unfortunately, that's about as exciting as the album gets. The effort falls notably flat given the prestige of the 50th anniversary of this esteemed festival. Perhaps it was the genre choice, with the band riffing on Duke Ellington's "Just Squeeze Me", which does not particularly fit my jazz tastes, but for a legacy album, the expectations here were not met. In a word, it was boring. - Daniel J. Graeber

Negroni's Trio

Father & Son

March 10, 2008

Miami-based Puerto Rican pianist Jose Negroni’s last disc Piano/Bass/Drums was a grammy nominee. Here, his son joins him on drums. The disc stacks up, taking you through a variety of tempos and genres from post-bop to latin jazz. The tracks are a great length for radio, and have a great variety and eclecticism the WYCE audience will love.

Quick Links:

• The Negroni's Trio Website

Lizz Wright

The Orchard

March 3, 2008

Singer Lizz Wright Tries to Keep Things Simple on Her New Album Jazz vocalist Lizz Wright decided it was time to return to her roots. For her new CD, she tried to capture the simplicity of the blues and gospel music she heard growing up in the rural town of Hahira, Ga. The daughter of a minister, she sang in church there with her two siblings. "I come from a place where we don't use a lot of words," Ms. Wright says. "It's really about emoting." On "The Orchard," Ms. Wright wanted to make a personal statement, co-writing eight of the new album's 12 tracks. The album has a looser feel than Ms. Wright's previous releases. Like "Dreaming Wide Awake," it was produced by Craig Street, who has worked with Cassandra Wilson and k.d. lang. Other musicians on "The Orchard" include Toshi Reagon, who co-wrote many of the songs, and guitarist and longtime Bob Dylan sideman Larry Campbell. The songs range from the slow-building, moody "Coming Home," which kicks off the compilation, to a rapturous folk waltz, "Song for Mia." Ms. Wright worked on "The Orchard" for about two years, spending the first in Georgia visiting her grandparents, "taking in a lot of information, looking at my home and just collecting feelings," she says. For her new CD, she tried to capture the simplicity of the blues and gospel music she heard growing up in the rural town of Hahira, Ga. The daughter of a minister, she sang in church there with her two siblings. "I come from a place where we don't use a lot of words," Ms. Wright says. 'It's really about emoting.'" - ROBERT J. HUGHES, Wall Street Journal February 22, 2008

CHICK COREA & GARY BURTON

The New Crystal Silence

March 1, 2008

Not much can be said about either Chick Corea or Gary Burton that hasn't already been said, so we'll just cut to the chase. Chick Corea has been mentioned in the same breath as other jazz pianists, such as Herbie Hancock. Gary Burton in his own right stands among the best vibraphonists of all time. Fans will not be disappointed with this dual CD. The first CD features the duet playing choice selections from the 1971 album Crystal Silence accompanied by the Sydney Symphony. This recording is the opening performance and, if you appreciate the symphony, you'll appreciate this. The second CD is just the two legends having a conversation. They've been playing together for going on 40 years now and listening to the two play is like, well, listening to two legends play. The camaraderie shines through. The New Crystal Silence is a nice addition from two jazz greats. -- Daniel J. Graeber

Quick Links:

• Chick Corea's Web Site
• Gary Burton's Web Site

THE JODI PROZNICK QUARTER

Foundations

February 23, 2008

Bassist Jodi Proznik has been hiding out in the dark corners of jazz clubs in Canada for many years now. She’s backed countless bands and won several awards, including the 2007 Bassist of the Year in the Canadian National Jazz Awards. “Foundations” is her first foray into a leadership role, heading Tilden Webb on the piano, Steve Kaldestad on tenor sax and Jesse Cahill on drums. Proznik’s bass stands out as the showcase of this album. A lot of jazz bass gets lost on the background, but not here. Her abilities as a composer shine as well, however, her interpretation of Joni Mitchell’s “Help Me” is the highpoint of the album. “Foundations” features a mix of Proznik originals, like “Duke of York” written for a 27-pound pet cat and “Must be Rain,” an homage to the Pacific Northwest. Other highlights include Peter Gabriel’s “Washing of the Water.” A nice album to have on in the background. Very pleasant. -- Daniel J. Graeber

Quick Links:

• Jodi Proznick Official Web Site

THE MATT SAVAGE TRIO

Hot Ticket

February 16, 2008

First and foremost, Matt Savage is something of a child prodigy. I think he’s 15 or so and this is his eighth album of jazz compositions! He’s been on Marian McPartland’s “Piano Jazz,” which gives him street cred in and of itself. The liner notes and press release on this one reads like a resume, with appearances on Late Night with Conan O’Brien among others. Most of the songs, including the salsa-flared “Muy Caliente,” are Savage compositions. He even takes on the giants with Miles Davis’ “Seven Steps to Heaven.” Recorded live at Tufts University’s Distler Performance Hall in Boston, this is a polished set of work. That being said, that’s just what this recording is – polished. To me, it was very “recital.” A talented musician, no doubt, but this is very thin on substance. - Daniel J. Graeber

Quick Links:

• The Matt Savage site

FERNANDO OTERO

Pagina de Beunos Aries

February 16, 2008

Argentinean composer Fernando Otero has been actively recording for over a decade. Crossing many musical boundaries, this album features references to classical, pop and, of course, jazz. The songs range from solo compositions, such as “Preludio 19,” to a spattering of trios highlighting cello accompaniment, to a full 25-piece orchestra. Otero blends Latin rhythms with classical elements in a syncopated jump of exploration. Vague references here to the jazz style of Thelonious Monk with odd time signatures and cadences. If you’re interested in trying something a little fringe, this might be worth checking out. -- Daniel J. Graeber

Quick Links:

• Fernando Otero :: Official Web Site

GIACOMO GATES

Luminosity

February 7, 2008

First off, this guy's backing band is fantastic! Very tight emphasis on a jaunty loungy type of piano when it needs to be, and smoky-corner-of-bar in other spots. The tenor sax make some nice cameos too, accentuating the tunes with blasts of brilliance. Now, if you can tell a book by its cover, I was somewhat surprised by this one. Just a shot of Giacomo Gates with a microphone in mid-tune. And it's a bit obvious, I guess would be a good way to describe it. The cover screams "lounge" and that's what you get. I expected to hear things mid-song welcoming the beautiful ladies in the crowd, and sure enough, the guy gives a monologue introducing some of these songs – and it's a studio album! Who is he talking to? But besides that, it's fun. Very Frank Sinatra. I cringe to admit it, but I kind of liked this one. I'll even let his cover of the Jimi Hendrix tune "Up from the Skies" slide just this one time. Highlights include "Melodious Funk" and "The Beginning of the End." This is worth it just to hear his band. -Daniel J. Graeber

Quick Links:

• Giacomo Gates Web Site

BEN ALLISON AND MAN SIZE SAFE

Little Things Run the World

February 7, 2008

Maybe I'm out of the loop for modern jazz, and I'm not complaining, but there seems to be a lot of Brad Mehldau going around(look him up because you're missing out), and speaking of Radiohead, "Ben Allison & Man Size Safe" is pretty interesting. There's that atonal dissonance of latter day Radiohead in here that is really really cool. The trumpet is right out of KidA in some tracks. Very very cool. Go buy this now because there is a lot here. The opening tune, "Respiration," sold me inside of 10 seconds, "Language of Love" is really nice and somber, "Four Folk Songs" gives a bit of a salsa flair to it that's nice, and the group puts a nice little spin on John Lennon's "Jealous Guy." Very good album. - Daniel J. Graeber

Quick Links:

• Ben Allison and Man Size Safe homepage

FRANK KIMBROUGH

Air

January 21, 2008

Frank Kimbrough brings his hard bop to a new exploration invoking shades of latter day John Coltrane. He's recorded with too many artists to mention and with the Frank Kimbrough Trio and he served as the house pianist at The Village Corner in New York's Greenwich Village for five years. The New York Times calls this first Frank Kimbrough solo effort "a mature and personal reflection." It's nice. My experience with modern jazz pianists brings Brad Mehldau to mind, with ethereal backings and modern themes. But Kimbrough's first solo album is just the man and his piano. The liner notes refer to this is something of a one-off while exploring a friend's new studio technology and claims the tapes were never meant to be released. I'm glad he did. This was nice. Some of the features seemed a bit like Kimbrough was simply tinkering with a riff with no sense of structure, hence the latter day Coltrane reference, but when he does bring it together, it's worth the wait. Five Kimbrough originals accompany four other covers, including two Thelenious Monk musings and Duke Ellington's "Wig Wise." A good listen. -- Daniel J. Graeber

Quick Links:

• Frank Kimbrough Home Page

MONTEREY JAZZ FESTIVAL 50TH ANNIVERSARY ALL-STARS

Live at the 2007 Monterey Jazz Festival

January 15, 2008

The Monterey Jazz Festival is the most revered musical celebrations in American history. Stars from Thelonious Monk, Freddie Hubbard and Duke Ellington graced the festival with their jazz orations and the festival brought out other acts, such as Big Brother and the Holding Company, Sly and the Family Stone and Roberta Flack, not to mention the perennial favorite, Dizzy Gillespie. So, it was with much anticipation that I opened the 50th Anniversary All-Stars legacy album. As I popped the record in for its first listen, I was excited to see the All-Stars on a spring tour supporting the festival's main cause of raising money for music education. The liner notes laud the band; be-bop jazz saxophonist and Gillespie-vet James Moody, Monterey vet and former member of the festival's Next Generation Jazz Orchestra Benny Green also on sax, Grammy award winning trumpeter Terence Blanchard, and a strong supporting cast featuring veteran vocalist Nnenna Freelon. But unfortunately, that's about as exciting as the album gets. The effort falls notably flat given the prestige of the 50th anniversary of this esteemed festival. Perhaps it was the genre choice, with the band riffing on Duke Ellington's "Just Squeeze Me", which does not particularly fit my jazz tastes, but for a legacy album, the expectations here were not met. In a word, it was boring. - Daniel J. Graeber

Quick Links:

• Monterey Jazz Festival

DEEPAK RAM

Steps

January 13, 2008

Even if you know John Coltrane's composition "Giant Steps" backward and forward, you still might not recognize the version on Deepak Ram's Steps. That's because this legendary jazz standard is performed on an Indian bansuri flute and set inside a samba arrangement. The Coltrane classic "Naima" gets a misty, sun-and-shadows rainforest feel via Jamey Haddad's tropical percussion and Vic Juris' meditative acoustic guitar. The story goes that Ram got the idea for recording Steps after a journalist told him that the bansuri might be fine for classical Indian music, but it was far too limited an instrument for performing a complex jazz piece like "Giant Steps." Not only did Ram prove him wrong, but he also demonstrates a variety of moods here, like giving Gershwin's "Summertime" a dreamy coffee house feel. Miles Davis' "All Blues" and the Rodgers and Hart classic, "My Funny Valentine," get a more conventional small combo arrangement, with Juris' electric guitar lending a John Pizzarelli flavor. But what sets these and other pieces apart is Ram's lilting, microtonal approach, which adds an enticing complexity that's reminiscent of Indian ragas and ghazals. -- Bob Tarte

For over 1,000 world music CD reviews by Bob Tarte, visit BobTarte.com and click on 'Music Reviews.'

TICKLAH

Ticklah Vs. Axelrod

January 8, 2008

TICKLAH TICKLAH VS. AXELROD This is the third solo release from Victor Axelrod (aka Ticklah). This album is a “soundclash” between two musical personalities: Axelrod’s keyboard abilities and Ticklah’s love of dub and studio experimentation. Ticklah is a founding member of the Easy Star All Stars who are known for putting their spin on Pink Floyd and Radiohead material with “Dub Side Of The Moon” and a WYCE favorite, “Radiodread”. Ticklah does it all on this album. He produced and mixed it, and plays a number of instruments including drums, electric piano, organ, synthesizer, clavinet, bass, guitar, guiro, cabassa, and melodica. Collaborating artists include Antibalas, The Victor Rice Octet, Dub Is A Weapon, and Vinia Mojica (best known for working with hip hop masters De La Soul and A Tribe Called Quest). TICKLAH VS. AXELROD is a “hip dub chillout record that defies expectations and is the epitome of the Brooklyn dub underground.” Highlights include #4 Mi Sonsito (A Eddie Palmieri salsa classic), and the sultry #9 Si Hecho Palante. #6 Pork Eater says “Bitch” Reviewed By LaRae

Quick Links:

• Ticklah's MySpace

CHARLIE HUNTER AND BOBBY PREVITE/GROUNDTRUTHER

ALTITUDES

January 8, 2008

This is the third installment of the Groundtruther trilogy where Hunter and Previte invite John Medeski as their guest. The album is separated into two concepts. Above Sea Level is the electrified set, while Below Sea Level is acoustic. This is not a typical jazz album that might have you tapping your feet or swinging your hips. It is simply spontaneous improvisation which is spacey, tripped-out, and full of distortion and wicked tones. Reviewed by LaRae WYCE Programmer

Quick Links:

• Groundtruther Projects

SHANNON BRYANT

Oceano

January 2, 2008

This Canadian born transplant to San Francisco released her self-produced debut album “Oceano” in the summer of 2007. “Oceano” has the feeling of a perfect Sunday morning brunch soundtrack. Shannon’s voice is as smooth as an ocean breeze coming off the warm waters of the birthplace of her chosen musical style. The standout track here would be “Little Samba”, an up tempo song that includes cuica (a Brazilian drum often used in samba music) as well as piano, bass, and drums. All songs on “Oceano” are original tunes crafted by Bryant with the help of a few friends. Some of the featured musical friends here are Marcos Silva and Peter van Gelder, well-respected musicians in the Bay Area. This Jazz and Bossa Nova filled album has a great and relaxing mood throughout all ten tracks. --Tim Warren

Quick Links:

• Offical Shannon Bryant Website

FALKNER EVANS

Arc

December 29, 2007

Jazz pianist Falkner Evans and his trio return on their third effort, ARC, to offer some fresh voices to jazz standards and express virtuosity on new original tracks in this fine recording. Featured alongside bassist Belden Bullock and drummer Matt Wilson, the trios grasp of classic and modal jazz is exemplified on new arrangements of John Coltrane's "Central Park West" and the Wayne Shorter tune, "Fee-Fi-Fo-Fum." The trio expresses their penchant for a tight working group in the Evan's original "Make Tracks, Child" that is interlaced with musical references to Thelonious Monk's "Straight No Chaser." This new album is a great collection and is both accessible and intricate. A fine contribution! - Daniel J. Graeber

THE MIKE LONGO TRIO

Float Like a Butterfly

December 3, 2007

The legendary jazz pianist Mike Longo pays tribute to his mentor, Oscar Peterson, in this foray into true jazz piano playing. Longo learned the ropes as the pianist and musical director for Dizzy Gillespie in the 1960's. Formed around the same time, The Mike Longo Trio has been delivering soothing jazz explorations for nearly four decades. Featuring Paul West on bass and Jimmy Wormworth on drums, this endearing record is as powerful as any of the great jazz legends. Highlights include Longo's "Diminished Returns", Freddie Hubbard's "Blue Spirits" and the homage to Oscar Peterson, "Tenderly." Other stand-outs include Longo's musings on Thelonious Monk's "Evidence." "Float Like a Butterfly" is a fine coda to an already legendary jazz performer. - Daniel J. Graeber

Quick Links:

• About me

THE CHARLES MINGUS SEXTET

Charles Mingus Sextet with Eric Dolphy - Cornell 1964

November 30, 2007

Only the students at Cornell University, the band members, and a few close friends were privy to this stream of jazz consciousness before Sue Graham Mingus discovered the tape of this March 18, 1964 performance by the Charles Mingus Sextet. Here we see Charles Mingus jauntily leading trumpetman Johnny Coles, saxophonist Clifford Jordan, drummer Dannie Richmond, and bardsman Eric Dolphy on sax, flute, and bass clarinet through an iconoclastic exploration of jazz music. Mingus leads an interpretative dissertation on Duke Ellington's "Sophisticated Lady" and embarks on a 20-minute journey to "Take the 'A' Train." This two-disc set features Mingus on Mingus in his thirty minute demarcation of the standard "Meditations" before bidding farewell to his long time collaborator, Eric Dolphy, with the celebratory "So Long Eric." Also included is the ubiquitous Mingus statement, "Fables of Faubus." This double dip is a must have for any true Mingus epicurean. - Daniel J. Graeber

Quick Links:

• About me

VARIOUS ARTISTS

"The War" A Ken Burns Film - The Soundtrack

November 30, 2007

This compendium to the 2007 Ken Burn's 2007 PBS documentary of World War II drifts between the somber orchestrations of Aaron Copland and the Columbia Symphony Orchestra to the ripping 1942 fireball "Wang Wang Blues" by the King of Swing himself, Benny Goodman. Count Basie & His Orchestra make you want to go-daddy-go in "Basie Boogy" while the Nat "King" Cole Trio's asks 'bout that jive in "If You Can't Smile and Say Yes." Unique score for the film features new works by an ensemble cast working on features composed and arranged by Wynton Marsalis and Norah Jones contributes a heart felt track on the appropriately titled "American Anthem." Even if you didn't participate in Burns' 15 hour homage to the greatest generation of the United States, this montage will fit nicely in any reputable jazz collection. - Daniel J. Graeber

Quick Links:

• About me

3 COHENS

Braid

November 30, 2007

Fantastic. Simply fantastic. The 3 Cohens paint a masterpiece of jazz using the same canvas on which Miles Davis spoke so eloquently in "Kind of Blue." Award winning tenor saxophonist Anat Cohen teams up with her brothers, Avishai on trumpet and Yuval on soprano sax, to offer a three-horn front in a classic sextet ensemble. Drawing from Brazilian and classical studies only enhances this 10-song feature. Virtuosity, discipline and great homage pepper the nine original compositions for this must-have for any jazz enthusiast. If you like 1950's era John Coltrane, Art Blakey, or any of the other jazz giants, this new offering holds its own among the best of the best. - Daniel J. Graeber

Quick Links:

• About me

LUCIANA SOUZA

The New Bossa Nova

November 29, 2007

Luciana Souza's "The New Bossa Nova" presents a new flavor to her past contributions to jazz vocals. The Brazilian-born jazz vocalist offers a fresh taste to an impressive collection of adult-contemporary hits. Tapping into her inner Joni Mitchell, Souza's first release on the Universal Jazz France label offers up reinterpretations on a wide range of hits, such as The Beach Boys "God Only Knows," Steely Dan's "Were You Blind That Day," Joni Mitchell's "Down to You" and a soulful duet with James Taylor on his song "Never Die Young." "Down to You" and Sting's "When We Dance" are the albums shining moments. This 11-song feature offers fresh bossa nova styling paired exquisitely with Souza's soothing jazz vocals in this artistic adventure for the singer. - Daniel J. Graeber

Quick Links:

• About me

DIANA KRALL

The Very Best of Diana Krall

November 29, 2007

Diana Krall's compendium of hits spans the past eight years of the jazz vocalists and pianist's illustrious career, featuring songs from her 2000 Album of the Year nominated "When I Look Into Your Eyes" to the Grammy nominated 2006 album, "From this Moment On." A must-have for fans needing a taste of the crooning diva's velvety inflection. This best of Krall features standards such as Gershwin's classic "'S Wonderful" and Burt Bacharach's "The Look of Love." A truly sensual contribution to an already wonderful collection of this Canadian's passionate vocal career. - Daniel J. Graeber

Quick Links:

• about me

VARIOUS ARTISTS

Live at the Monterey Jazz Festival, Highlights, Volume 1

November 12, 2007

Founded in 1958 and still going strong today, the Monterey Jazz Festival is the longest consecutively running music festival in history. This disc is part of a series of releases the festival is just-now producing, after mastering live tapes that have remained in the festival vaults for many years. The set moves from Satchmo, the very first headliner of the very first MJF in 1958, to recent work by Pat Metheny. Miles and Monk shine (of course), but my favorite is the entry by Dave Brubeck (#7), full of the signature time changes he's made famous. Diana Krall's solo is also notable for the song's composer, Clint Eastwood, who makes a comment on the performance after the song ends. Hopefully, we'll also add other gems from this new series that will focus on one artist. 11/07 MJVD J-Roots

Quick Links:

• Monterey Jazz Festival site
• More on the new series of MJF recordings

FOUR80EAST

Enroute

October 23, 2007

Hailing from Toronto - Tony Grace and Rob DeBoer have been making music and recordings together since the late 90’s. Here on the Native Language label they have put together a chill jazz cd that I enjoyed. “Closer” has the cool, dreamy voice of Divine Brown. Bryden Baird playing horns on “Don’t Look Back” reminds me of Chris Botti. - Anne Lamont

Quick Links:

• FOUR80EAST website

MILES DAVIS

The Complete On the Corner Sessions

September 24, 2007

A collection of over 6 1/2 hours of music covering Miles’ studio recordings from ’72 to ’75 – including 12 previously unreleased tracks! Features Michael Henderson, Al Foster, Mtume, Dave Liebman, Sonny Fortune, Carlos Garnett, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, John McLaughlin, Reggie Lucas, Pete Cosey, Jack DeJohnette, Billy Hart, Badal Roy, Don Alias, Bennie Maupin, Lonnie Liston Smith, and Cedric Lawson. This is Miles taking it beyond the outer limits of jazz – capturing a time in history when he and his band were selling out stadiums worldwide. The Complete On the Corner Miles Davis (1972-1975) in six discs – master takes, edits, LP versions and more. The chaos to order journey of On the Corner is compelling and literally electric. This is about the rhythm. The ‘Jazz Establishment’ considered this heretical at the time – the funk will survive!

BERNIE WORRELL

Improvisczario

September 17, 2007

Yeah…read THAT title 5x fast. I get this guy’s taste, and I like it, however not everyone will. This is definitely jazz, but very mixed up and drawn out. This funk, rock, jazz album of instrumentals is grounded by Bernie Worrell’s keys, from baby grand to Wurlitzer to B-3 to Clavinet to Celeste (muted) Piano, and bring this record to as diverse a place as a keyboard album can go. Coming from Worrell, this is not a surprise. Probably best known as A-list synthesizer player for “P-Funk” and also the “Talking Heads,” this guy has been everywhere. Most of this album is Worrell putting a group together, picking out an instrument, and playing live over their improvisation, which makes for a fun experiment in Jazz to say the least. -Pete

DIANA KRALL

From This Moment On

September 17, 2007

I've been working on getting this album for a long time, as a good Dutchman would, without paying for it. What does it finally take? A new ¡Greatest Hits¡¨ record on the horizon in a few weeks. It's amazing what these industry folks will send you when they want something back! ƒº For now, let¡¦s sit back, take a breath, and enjoy this ¡¥06 release. Reminisce with me if you will¡K..before she ¡§listened to Oscar Peterson¡¨ in the Lexus Commercial¡K.***** -Pete

THE WAVERLY SEVEN

YO! Bobby

September 10, 2007

These seven New York jazz musicians take on the Bobby Darin songbook on a two-disc, all-instrumental CD. A few of these artists -- clarinet player Anat Cohen, trumpeter Avishai Cohen and sax man Joel Frahm -- are already in our WYCE jazz library. All the cuts are done in a big band format with various players sharing solo spotlights. Interesting piece of trivia that Darin only penned two of his hits, the well-known "Splish Splash" and the not-so-known "That Funny Feeling." And, of course, the most famous Darin single of all was "Mack the Knife," which hit #1 in 1959, although it was written for "The Threepenny Opera" in 1928 by German composers Brecht and Weill. - MJVD

JOE HENRY

Civilians

September 10, 2007

The lyrics on this recording are phenomenal, like when you have a really great novel that you can’t put down, you read a paragraph of prose and marvel at its perfection. It’s not the strange esoteric work of the past but a collection of accessible and interesting songwriting. You might read the liner notes about his home and state of mind, which is decidedly happy. Check out the musicians he employs. Bill Frisell and Loudon Wainwright III are two of them. - Teresa Jeanne

PEARL DJANGO

Modern Times

September 10, 2007

Pearl Django has been performing for 13 years. This is their 9th CD and the first in two years. The success of the modern resurgence of gypsy-swing-jazz music can somewhat be attributed to this band. This album marks the addition of David Lange on accordion, who also records all of the bands’ albums.

McCOY TYNER

Quartet

September 10, 2007

This guy is a badass of jazz, who worked for years with John Coltrane. This is the first album in a series of three where he will be collaborating with some of the top modern jazz artists. This time: Joe Lovano, Christian McBride, and Jeff “Tain” Waits. Next: John Scofield, Bill Frisell, Marc Ribot, Derek Trucks, and Bela Fleck. Then next fall: a new release from SF Jazz. It’s a McCoy fest, “the last musician touched by God.” –Pete

THE DYNAMITES FEATURING CHARLES WALKER

KABOOM

September 7, 2007

This nine piece, horn based, funk and R & B band travels the same path as Tower of Power, James Brown and Sly and the Family Stone. About half of the 10 cuts found on this release feature a frantic pace and lots of horn breaks while the balance work real hard at jumping into a low down, bass heavy groove. Charles Walker is a soulful singer who rides above the hard grooves with an ease that reflects his earlier stints fronting bands at New York’s storied Apollo Theatre. Stand out tracks include the sinewy "Slinky", the big Otis Redding style ballad, "Dig Deeper", and the rip-roaring "Own Thing". If you dig old school funk there is something here for you. Smitty

Quick Links:

• The Dynamites My Space
• The Dynamites Web Site

CHARLIE HUNTER TRIO

Mistico

August 27, 2007

The Charlie Hunter Trio consists of Simon Lott on drums and Erik Deutsch on piano, Fender Rhodes and Casio Tone and Charlie on his seven string guitar. Charlie has played with many different artists, including Michael Franti in the eighties. This CD is an easy listen with a few twists and turns within. Teresa Jeanne

Quick Links:

• Charlie Hunter's website

MILES DAVIS

Evolution of the Groove

August 27, 2007

Evolution of the Groove is not a fantastic album or a long album, but it is perpetuating the legacy of Miles Davis with some experimental remixing of his original material. Produced as one continuing piece, the record does have some moments and is worth a shot. -Pete

SONNY FORTUNE

You and the Night and the Music

August 26, 2007

Fortune at 68 is in fine form. On this instrumental cd he is mostly playing alto saxophonist but he reminds us that he’s also a creative flute players on “‘Round Midnight”. Fronting a quartet with George Cables on piano, Chip Jackson on bass and Steve Johns on drums—Fortune plays some standards with a straight ahead style “Sweet Georgia Brown,” “Besame Mucho,” “The End of a Love Affair. All songs are delivered with finesse, lyricism and the sharp, reedy tone tha is Fortune’s signature. Reviewer Anne Lamont

THE BORN AGAIN FLOOZIES

7 Deadly Sinners

August 15, 2007

Most of what you need to know can be answered by telling you that the Born Again Floozies are:
Charlie Krone on the Slide Trombone - lead trombone, lead other stuff
Amy Gilmore - Lead Tap Dancer #2, shouting, exuberance
Nancy Moore - lead backing vocalist and cymbal smasher extrordinaire
Elizabeth Milliken - lead tap dancer, finger cymbalist, wood blocker
Ben Vokits - lead tuba
Joey Welch - guitar, vocals, suitcase

Sound like fun?? You bet it is!! -Reviewed by Olive

Quick Links:

• The Born Again Floozies Official Website
• The Born Again Floozies on MySpace

AVISHAI COHEN

After The Big Rain

August 13, 2007

It is doubtful that trumpeter/composer Avishai Cohen's credentials would fit onto a one-page résumé. As a child he toured the world with the Young Israeli Philharmonic Orchestra, and then left his home in Tel Aviv to attend the Berklee College of Music in Boston ... where he received a full scholarship. In addition to performing with various artists, Keren Ann among them, he also performs and records regularly with the bands Third World Love and Lemon Juice Quartet — and with sister Anat (saxophone) and brother Yuval (soprano sax) as 3 Cohens. This is the NYC jazz musician's second solo album, following 2003's The Trumpet Player, and in After the Big Rain he embraces African folk music, and is accompanied by West African vocalist/guitarist Lionel Loueke. - Sara Cosgrove

THE SECTION QUARTET

Fuzzbox

August 13, 2007

Touted as “The Loudest String Quintet on the Planet,” they’ve been a great resource over the years in Los Angeles to rock bands that need a string backup on albums, concerts, or television appearances. They’ve played with many big names. These guys are a rock band that just happen to play strings. The album includes covers of The Strokes, Radiohead, Queens of the Stone Age, The Yeah Yeah Yeahs, Led Zepelin, Soundgarden, and Massive Attack. – Pete

EST

Tuesday Wonderland

August 13, 2007

One of my personal favorite Swedish jazz acts, aka “Esbjorn Svensson Trio” keep getting better with time. For first-timers, these guys traverse the gap between contemporary and electronic jazz with an appeal to anyone adventurous at heart. –Pete

BILLIE HOLIDAY

Remixed & Reimagined

July 30, 2007

It has been done with Nina Simone and several artists on the Verve Series; now jazz legend Billie Holiday is being reintroduced to sound systems worldwide. Don’t expect any of the original tunes to remain—in fact, big Billie Holiday fans should just put this back on the shelf. This is more of a cool electronic jazz album with bits of Holiday thrown in at appropriate times. Not bad, but not groundbreaking. Considering the success of these products on our station this is a notable project, but no “Jammies” to be had here. -P

RON CARTER

Dear Miles

July 30, 2007

Finally, a great Ron Carter Showcase that translates to radio. Notice: no trumpets! This CD showcases Ron Carter’s virtuosity on the upright bass, and provides ear candy for all who listen. Dear Miles has great arrangements featuring Miles Davis songs, Ron Carter originals, and more. – Pete

JUDY NIEMACK

Blue Nights

July 30, 2007

Look at the back, this is an all-star cast! Niemack doesn’t really even have to do anything to make this a good album—but she does. Niemack’s gorgeous voice is of course the pervading element, but sometimes she also sits back and lets the band roll without her. Blue Nights was conceived as a concert set, with the varied moods, interaction and energy of a “live” performance. -Pete

BEASTIE BOYS

The Mix-Up

July 23, 2007

The “Beastie Boys” need a pseudonym. Since the 80s they’ve been putting out groundbreaking material, record after record, yet they’ve always been an easy target to critics for one reason or another. Since Check Your Head, they’ve been playing around with funky instrumental tracks on albums and during live performances, but this is the first all-instrumental album put out by the ‘Boys (not including a compilation of previously-released instrumental tracks released in the mid-90s). The Mix Up is an enjoyable listen from start to finish, and although the music doesn’t necessarily challenge the listener by pushing major boundaries, it doesn’t have to. The Beastie Boys have crafted a recognizable sound that makes a statement all by itself. They’ve owned this sound for over a decade, and now with this record, they claim it. -Pete

FOUR FINGER FIVE

Enormous Pocket

July 17, 2007

Lakeshore-local jam-band Four Finger Five is ready for air-play. This is an amazing group that has spent the last few years gaining local and regional notoriety at bars, festivals, and most recently Muskegon’s Frauenthal Theatre. The album, recorded in one day, showcases five live studio tracks. Check out ‘Change’ for sure. Also, ‘Four Finger Famiglia’ offers a terrific sample three of Grand Rapids finest MCs just NOT ON THE RADIO. The album also features two extensive jams, Intermission and Bird in the Bush. On these the band’s live experience of funk, soul, rock, and jazz fusion is best displayed. Basically, you should see and listen to this band and NOT PLAY TRACK FOUR on the radio. – Derrick muund

TOM GAVORNIK

A Long Time Ago...

July 17, 2007

Tom Gavornik delivers a message with this record, as he dedicates it to those who have been affected by incest and other sexual abuse and violence survivors. His emotions shine through on this album, even though there are no words or vocals. Check out tracks 3 “He Is Mysterious (The Invincible Christ)”, track 6 “White Hats/Black Hats (Cowboy Blues)”:, and track 7 “Hey Jim, It’s In ‘F’”. – Lane Zoerhof

BILLY BANG QUINTET FEATURING FRANK LOWE

Above & Beyond: Live in Grand Rapids

July 17, 2007

No one knew this would be Billy and Frank's last collaboration, but the performance is so intense you get the feeling they might have had a hint. Frank Lowe played the show with one lung, and according to the liner notes, post-show the promoter wanted to call a medic he was so out of breath. I knew this would be an easy add for our radio station considering the sound quality and the fact that it was recorded right in our home town, but this release is seriously hard to put down. We are proud to be a part of this release, and hope everyone enjoys it as much as I do. - Pete Bruinsma

Invert

The Strange Parade

July 3, 2007

An incredible delight hearing the beauty and calmness of a string quartet with the powerful and demanding sound of percussion. Invert takes their already wonderful sound and mixes in guest drummer Roberto Rodriguez to create an awesome compilation record that will appeal to jazz and rock listeners alike. This is a true bonding of music. Check out tracks 2 “Dog Days”, track 3 “The March”, track 5 “Yumeji’s Theme”, track 12 “Trainwreck”, and track 15 “Truth Serum”. Lane Zoerhof

THE MACPODZ

Genius Food for Superheroes

July 3, 2007

(Ann Arbor, MI) Dedicated to “the preservation of the motion of hips,” this instrumental jazz/funk act coined the phrase “disco bebop” for their sound. The bands debut album Genius Food for Superheroes hits the ground with solid production, arrangements, and a very danceable rhythm throughout. I can see these guys playing a great show at Billys or the Intersection. They remind me of other regional post-jam funk-infused jazz groups like Groove Spoon, Nomo, Wireless Green, Baxter, and the Flow. – Pete

Ann Savoy & Her Sleepless Knights

If Dreams Come True

June 23, 2007

Singer Ann Savoy is a fixture on the Cajun music scene as a member of the Savoy Doucet Band. This disc finds her spreading her stylistic wings with string driven, jazzy takes on standards such as Benny Goodman’s "If Dreams Come True", Hart and Rodgers’ "Bewitched,Bothered and Bewildered" and Django Renhardt’s "Melodie Au Crepuscule". The overall feel is much closer to sophisticated French cabaret than the steamy bayou music that has been her calling card but there is much to like here. Smitty

Quick Links:

• Memphis International

VARIOUS ARTISTS

John Pisano’s Guitar Night

June 11, 2007

In 1997 during a series of performances at “Papashon” in Los Angeles, jazz-guitarist John Pisano convinced a club to begin featuring a different guitarist each week. The event became known as guitar night, and while the setting has since moved to “Spazio,” John has continued to preside over the weekly concerts. This two-disc set features 16 tracks, including live performances from Anthony Wilson, Ted Greene, Pat Kelley, Scott Henderson, Corey Christiansen, Joe Diorio, Barry Zweig, Frank Potenza, Peter Bernstein and Larry Koonse with John Pisano providing accompaniment on most tracks.

THE GODFATHERS OF GROOVE FEATURING REUBEN WILSON, BERNARD “PRETTY” PURDIE, AND GRANT GREEN JR.

The Godfathers of Groove

June 11, 2007

The Godfathers of Groove (previously known as The Masters of Groove) are an All-Star group comprised of Reuben Wilson on the Hammond B3, Bernard "Pretty" Purdie on drums, and Grant Green Jr. on guitar. In the late 60s, organist Reuben Wilson began ascending to his current status as a "godfather" of acid-jazz with "On Broadway", the first in a string of albums for Blue Note Records. With these recordings Wilson revealed a command of funk that helped redefine the soul jazz movement created by the likes of Jimmy Smith, Jimmy McGriff and Richard "Groove" Holmes. Bernard Purdie was born June 11, 1939 in Elkton, Maryland as the eleventh of fifteen children. At 14 years of age he purchased his first real drum set and became the most important provider for the family - earning his pay with country and carnival bands. Purdie has laid down the beat on over 3000 albums to date. As the son of legendary jazz guitarist Grant Green (1931-1979), Grant Green Jr. was exposed to exceptional musicianship and superb guitar playing right from the start. Growing up in the Palmer Woods section of Detroit, Grant enjoyed a constant parade of jazz greats streaming through his living room and at the tender age of five. His ability to blend funky grooves with the melodic soul-jazz and blues made him a popular session player and musician's musician.

ABBEY LINCOLN

Abbey Sings Abbey

June 4, 2007

Abbey Sings Abbey breaths new life into these tunes that she has written over the years. Fine instrumentation from guitarist Larry Campbell sets the pace for a sweet ride. When I listened to this one I thought about Nina, Ella, Billie and Dinah, truly great and magical. Only these women didn’t write like this. – Teresa Jeanne

ARJUN

Pieces

June 4, 2007

This is the culmination of the all natural cohesion of three great musical genres: funk, rock, and jazz. Arjun demonstrates that lyrics aren’t necessary to tell a story, all you need is raw instruments. But what is behind those raw instruments is raw talent, and that is the true story of this new group. There is a bonding that is blatantly obvious among this threesome that is hard to define, one just needs to open his or her ears and mind and soak in all that is 7 track release. Focus tracks: 1 “Balls,” 3 “Wung It,” and 6 “Longass” -Jake Burritt

Various Artists

European Jazz Stage (Radio Netherlands Worldwide)

June 3, 2007

Various Artists: European Jazz Stage (Radio Netherlands Worldwide) Playing like a European version of the famed NPR-syndicate program Jazz from the Lincoln Center, this disc is a sampler of a sorts from a 13 week long jazz series hosted by Daniel Frankl. Jazz ranging from bop to contemporary, from big band to the classic sounds of late 40s/50s era Blue Note, there is a bit for every discerning listener. All tracks are clean, but 1 through 10 are samples of the program with commentary. 11 through 20 are where its at. Reviewed by Trevor Edmonds (May 2007) (All tracks clean)

Quick Links:

• Radio Netherlands Worldwide's European Jazz Stage Web Site

Various Blue Note Artists

Somethin’ New

May 28, 2007

A compilation CD offering glimpses into spring and summer 07 releases from the renowned Blue Note Label. Tracks of interest include number a progressive number by Kenny Werner and the rest of his trio (New Amsterdam) and an intricate piano soliloquy by Jack Terrason (Mirror).

STEVE SWALLOW with ROBERT CREELY

So There

May 28, 2007

The album began as a collaboration and became a tribute to Creely after his passing in 2005. Swallow has been inspired by Creely’s poetry since the 50s and they have collaborated live numberouse times, and on a 1979 record. Swallow is an equally talented and esoteric jazz bassist who uses the upper register like no one else in jazz, playing it like a regular guitar. Prolific and talented pianist Steve Kuhn, Coltrane’s Quintet’s original keyboardist, rounds out the album. -Pete

KURT ELLING

Nightmoves

May 28, 2007

Kurt Elling’s album Nightmoves displays the wide vocal range of the seven-time Grammy-nominee, but also my fav., his style. The literate jazz poet tells stories through his song selection and even adds additional lyrics to some of his song interpretations. Backed by Laurence Hobgood on piano, Willie Jones III on drums and percussion, Christian McBride and Rob Amster on bass, and Bob Mintzer (Bob Mintzer Big Band) playing tenor sax, Elling pays tribute to several musical icons: Antonio Carlos Jobim, Betty Carter, Duke Ellington, Dexter Gordon, Keith Jarrett, Frank Sinatra and The Guess Who. – Pete

BELA FLECK AND CHICK COREA

The Enchantment

May 28, 2007

The relationship between Fleck and Corea was forged out of proximity and mutual respect, but the result is quite surprising as to how well they work together; it’s a match that simply fits together perfectly. Strictly a banjo and piano album, the two musicians are able to improvise together, and share the stage as two musicians who are unquestionably two of the best in their profession. Pete

Kate McGarry

The Target

May 21, 2007

Kate is a jazz singer with an inventive streak. While she'll take on standards such as "It Might as Well Be Spring" and "The Lamp is Low," she also dares to add lyrics to the famous Miles Davis tune "Blue in Green," reinterprets Sting's "Sister Moon" and tries her hand at originals such as the title track. This is an interesting set, with Gary Versace's work on the organ the musical highlight. He adds color and surprise to every track on which he's featured. 05/07 MJVD J-Contemporary

Robin Eubanks and EB3

Live Vol. 1

May 21, 2007

Some great arrangements on here! Eubanks is one of the best trombonists around, and is an original member of the Dave Holland Quintet and Big Band as well as a composer and arranger for the multi-Grammy award winning group. EB3 is Holland’s stab at something new and different—a chance for him to break out and explore what can be done with the trombone as well as loops and electronics, although the album is not driven by them. -Pete

Spanish Harlem Orchestra

United We Swing

May 21, 2007

A thirteen member all-star ensemble. This is the stunning followup to the band’s Grammy-winning 2004 album, although we’re probably still going to be the only ones to play it. Contemporary-meets-traditional on this release of nine original and four interpretations influenced by the legacy of El Barrio, an Eastside NYC community that gave rise to Boogaloo, Latin Soul, and Salsa. –Pete

KAHIL EL’ZABAR’S INFINITY ORCHESTRA

Transmigration

May 14, 2007

Kahil El'Zabar is one of Chicago's jazz treasures. A member of the AACM, music holds no boundaries for El'Zabar, who has not only played alongside a myriad of jazz greats, but was in the bands of Stevie Wonder, Cannonball Adderley, Dizzy Gillespie, and Nina Simone (who he also designed clothes for), as well as recording with rock bands like Sonia Dada and Poi Dog Pondering and heading up the jazz/house outfit the JUBA Collective. He was also chosen to do the arranging for the stage performances of The Lion King. This is in addition to leading his own longstanding Ethnic Heritage Ensemble and Ritual Trio. – Allmusic.com

MATT RAY

Lost in New York

May 7, 2007

A well-known piano player of the New York jazz scene, Ray comes out with his second release. Three originals accompany several adaptations including a few adapted from Soul artists. –P

HIROMI’S SONICBOOM

Time Control

April 30, 2007

Hiromi Uehara teams up here with Dave the Fuse Fiuczynski. Hiromi is a virtuoso of the piano from Tokyo. –P

JULIETTE GRECO

Le Temps d’une Chanson

April 30, 2007

The immortal 80 year-old Greco has reigned as the Grande Dame of French Music for over six decades. Here we have her interpretations of French Classics. –P

MELODY GARDOT

Worrisome Heart

April 23, 2007

With a doublepunch talent for songwriting and a beautiful voice, Gardot delivers a passionate release in more ways than one, following an auto accident that left her disabled (hence the reason she dons the dark sunglasses and a cane). At 22 years old she has a great career ahead. Influenced by the jazz greats but with modern stylings. –P

WAX TAYLOR

Hope & Sorrow

April 23, 2007

Downbeat electronic hip-hop, a-la DJ Logic’s 06 release in but less noise and more concise songs. Wax Tailor is the pseudonym of DJ JC le Saout. Also draws parallels to DJ Shadow and Portishead.. Lots of guests. This is his second album. -P

WYNTON MARSALIS

From The Plantation To The Penitentiary

April 11, 2007

One of the most prominent jazz musicians, and accomplished trumpet players in modern day has brought another hit! Marsalis has a wonderful compilation in From the Plantation to the Penitentiary. Paired with Jennifer Sanon on Vocals, Ali Jackson Jr. on Drums, Carlos Henriquez on Bass, Dan Nimmer on Piano, and Walter Blanding on Tenor & Soprano Sax. This is really a most interesting mix of modern day jazz that's absolutely perfect for Sunday brunch! – MK FCC Content for Wynton Marsalis: #4 Bitch, Ho, Niggerin

Steppin’ In It with Rachael Davis

Shout Sister Shout

April 2, 2007

A fun listening album that takes you back to the days of Ella Fitzgerald and Duke Ellington. This band takes the sound from the 30’s and 40’s era of jazz and recreates the songs for an easy listen to will calm any nerves. Check out tracks 1 “Slow Down”, track 2 “Shout Sister Shout”, track 7 “Carolina Moon”, track 8 “Miss Otis Regrets”, and track 11 “It’s Only A Paper Moon”. -Lane

Thad Jones

One More: The Summary: Music of Thad Jones Volume 2

March 29, 2007

The second in a series of albums that pay tribute to Mr. Jones by offering some fine rerecorded versions of some of his original jazz pieces. The record almost plays like a jazz timeline, sounding like a selection from the Benny Goodman Quartet's Together Again LP here, and sounding like the title tune off of Coltrane's Blue Train Lp there.

Quick Links:

• One More: The Summary - Music of Thad Jones, Vol. 2

Tin Hat

The Sad Machinery of Spring

March 23, 2007

The Sad Machinery of Spring the reconfigured, largely instrumental group specifically looked for inspiration in the works of surrealist Polish writer Bruno Schulz, who was killed by the Nazis in 1942. The essence of klezmer and related Eastern European sounds hover over Sad Machinery's compositions and improvisations, but Tin Hat is too unorthodox and resourceful to be so obvious. There is a balance of many moods and sonic variations among these tracks, ranging from playful and carefree to bucolic to jarringly eccentric. Whether that reflects Schulz's own creations most listeners will probably never know, but no matter: Sad Machinery is hardly a passive listening experience, but it's never boring. 4.5 out of 5 stars. allmusic.com Despite the departure of founder member Rob Burger, Tin Hat have produced possibly their deepest, most beguiling work with The Sad Machinery of Spring; their fifth album released in their ten years together…With instrumentation ranging from dobro to the massive contra alto clarinet (everyone except Parkins seems to play about 15 different instruments), Tin Hat have increased their already expansive and totally acoustic palette into something even richer and stranger. Amazingly accomplished and beautifully recorded work from a group of preternaturally talented musicians. Record of the year material, and it's only January... –The BBC

Soweto Kinch

A Life in the Day of B19: Tales of the Tower Block.

March 23, 2007

Charlie Parkeresque saxophone player, Soweto’s second album is part one of a two part concept release. The album is creative mesh of jazz and hip hop with story narratives over base lines and broken melodies at the end of most numbers. Tracks like Mission, Adrian’s Ballad, Marcus’s Crisis and A Friendly Game of Basketball hold the listener in a lull of Charlie Parker, Sonny Rollins style nostalgia. Opposing this are Hip Hop joints with beats lying somewhere in the vane of Aesop Rock such as Love Gamble, Ridez, So!, and Who Knows?. An interesting experiment and a tall order; a Jazz/Hip-Hop fusion concept album is a task I’m looking forward to Soweto completing this upcoming spring.

Anat Cohen

Poetica

March 23, 2007

Virtuoso tenor saxophonist and clarinetist, playing the latter exclusively here. Ranges from Israeli songs to Brazilian samba, a French classic and Coltrane. Includes two originals and an impressionistic piece by bassist Omer Avital who also arranged some.

THE GREYBOY ALLSTARS

What Happened to TV?

March 13, 2007

Say hello to The Greyboy Allstars' first album in a decade...What Happened to TV? After a long hiatus, and successful solo albums, the group has reignited into something new and awesome. Known for their contributions to some well known movies such as: Donnie Darko, Me and You & Everyone We Know, as well as the TV hit "Freeks and Geeks," this band is prepared for anything. This album is a great combination of instrumental and vocal sounds, giving you a moment to sit back and listen without trying to catch what they're actually saying. This one tends to remind you of The Jefferson's theme song, it just has and all around 70's jazz/blues/pop feel to it your sure to like! MK

WILL BERNARD

Party Hats

March 13, 2007

Great Contemporary jazz/funk/groove from Stanton Moore’s Guitarist. This album was recorded over three years and several lineup changes. Billboard Magazine calls him “one of the best-kept jazz-guitar secrets on the planet.” –Pete

Abram Wilson

Ride! Ferris Wheel To The Modern Day Delta

March 12, 2007

Ride! is Abram Wilson’s second effort for Dune Records. This trumpeter/vocalist has received acclaim for this contemporary Jazz album, which features a 10-piece line-up that is actually three bands in one: The Delta Blues Trio, The Londorleans Brass Band, and the Abram Wilson Sextet. Ride! is a concept album that tells the tale of Albert Jenkins, a young musician from Mississippi in line to take over a Jazz club that has been in the family for generations. Albert has other ideas though, he is intent on leaving home to tour with a Hip-Hop band. Wilson tells the story of Albert through Jazz, Blues, and Hip-Hop. Seth Allgaier

Alex Garcia’s AFROMANTRA

Uplifting Spirit

March 5, 2007

Chilean/Cuban drummer/composer Alex Garcia is exciting/tight on this new release. Afromantra was founded in 1997 in NYC to “achieve an ensemble sound that best expresses my musical ideas.” –P

Flat Earth Society

Psychoscout

March 5, 2007

This rather heftily staffed, modern big band sounding jazz group from Belgium has really been making a name for themselves outside of Europe. This album holds no mysteries as to why the extremely talented and appropriately named group’s popularity has been growing. The album is packed with ripping brass solos, clever beats, phenomenal dynamics, and the new addition of organ and synthesizer to spice things up even more. Some of the tracks are lacking substance, such as 9 and 1, but the rest pick up the slack. The features on this track are 3 “Gulls and Buoys,” the bluesy 4 “Edward, Why Don’t You Play Some Blues?” and the creepy action movie soundtrack style in 13 Ich, Bin, George.” -Jake Burritt

Quick Links:

• Flat Earth Society homepage

AJA WEST

The Olympian

March 5, 2007

What a bunch of funk-a-delic tunes! This album stands way out from the crowd. Aja West best known for his role as Composer/Producer in the group "The Mackrosoft," brings a weird mix of funk/hip-hop/jazz and some heavily mixed vocals. Besides being so different The Olympian is good in that it combines those genres without ruining the music. If you're looking for something new and different this is the album to open your senses to an unimaginable place. – MK

THE FFFELLAZ

4 Song EP

March 5, 2007

This groove-oriented improvisational jazz trio is generally known as FUNKILINIUM. Walt Licker on keys, GT on Bass, and Chef on Drums. If you've seen Funkilinium pack out the club at Billys with their dance-style jam material, you will eagerly anticipate this special project out of Flint MI that will not disappoint! Imagine: Weather Report meets Funkadelic! All cuts on this CD were improvised on the spot. -P

TOM GAVORNIK

Acceleration

February 19, 2007

A great release that displays Tom’s guitar virtuosity. Disc one is originals, Disc 2 pays tribute to Cream, the Beatles, Eric Clapton and others. –P

STEFON HARRIS

African Tarantella

February 19, 2007

Good, smooth jazz. Xavier Davis is from Grand Rapids, and the band has Michigan ties. -Mike on the Mic

Matt Wilson’s Arts and Crafts

The Scenic Route

February 19, 2007

Trumpeter Terell Stanford steals the show in this interesting set from drummer and jazz arranger Matt Wilson. Loosely based on a “traveling theme,” the range from the experimental (#1) to the sublime (Monk’s “Feel the Sway” and Ornette Coleman’s “Rejoicing”) to the classic (“Tenderly” and the last cut which uses John Lennon’s “Give Peace a Chance” as a coda). I think the Coleman tune is the stand-out of the record. 02/07 MJVD

JANICE BORLA

From Every Angle

February 19, 2007

This is top-class elegant jazz, with risks that pay off. Very nice release. Although it is a vocal showcase, the band is not afraid to demonstrate their proficiency. –pb

JACK DEJONETTE AND BILL FRISELL

The Elephant Sleeps But Still Remembers

February 5, 2007

Two avant-jazz giants together at the top of their game. Drummer eJohnette first came to prominence playing with Mile Davis on the legendary fusion record Bitches Brew and has gone on to a great career in both straight ahead and experimental jazz, most notably n a trio with Keith Jarrett and Gary Peacock. Guitar great Frisell has made his name over the past two decades fusing together every possible genre that features a string instrument; jazz, folk, bluegrass, psychedelic, classical and everything in between. Together they deliver an album of paradox, sparse but complex, bizarre but still accessible. Sometimes sounding haunting, trippy and ethereal ike on “Otherworldy Dervishes” and the stunning title track. Other times jarring and playful as in “Cat and Mouse” and “One-Tooth Shuffle” both featuring Frisell on a banjo like none you’ve heard before. The worldbeat influenced grooves of “Garden of Chew Man Chew” and “Ode to South Africa” are also highlights. Upon first listen some of these tunes may sound scattered or disjointed, but give them a chance. The guitar solos are precise and the melodies often exquisite if you allow your ears to keep up, and the drumming keeps a consistent groove going without the benefit of a bass player, no easy task. DeJohnette also tries his hand at piano on “Storm Clouds and Mist” and a lovely version of the Coltrane ballad “After the Rain.” Sound engineer Ben Surman (son of sax-man John Surman) fills out the sound with dashes of percussion and effects that give the album a slickly produced feel, surprising for a recording with only two musicians. All in all this is authentic, challenging modern jazz. Don’t be scared to challenge your listeners, they can handle it! - Calin

AVISHAI COHEN

Continuo

February 5, 2007

Herein lies some fine jazz from an accomplished acoustic and electric bassist and his gang of three. With the exception of Emotional Storm and Continuo, this music is neither rambunctious nor sedate, generating just enough energy to get the appendages dancing. There is enough variety to keep the music mostly mellow but interesting without losing itself or the listener. Add the periodic touch of oud, a Middle Eastern lute, and the music takes on an exotic edge. – Mostly

NATE NAJAR TRIO

I’m All Smiles

February 5, 2007

Im All Smiles is a well-done no-frills jazz release featuring Najar on Buscarino nylon string classical guitar. Not many folks play this style of jazz, and even fewer do it well. Contains hints of Brazilian rhythms and the Blues. -Pete

PAUL MOTIAN BAND

Garden of Eden

February 5, 2007

Paul Motian has been referred to as “the Picasso of jazz drummers.” His subtly fragmented rhythms have been the backdrop For a number of seminal piano-bass-drum trios. (Check our library for Bill Evans’ “Waltz for Debby” and the more recent Frank Kimbrough album “Play” for fine examples of this.) For the past decade he has been working with a revolving door of sax and guitar players in what he calls his “personal orchestra” originally known as the Electric Bebop Band, to create a uniquely nostalgic bridge between bebop and the early avant-garde ovement. Motian is credited as the composer for half of the tunes on this new effort with arrangements of songs by Charles Mingus, Thelonious Monk and Charlie Parker filling out the bill. The interplay of the guitars is always interesting and the horns’ dissonant harmonies recall Mingus and early Ornette Coleman. Motian and bassist Harris keep them all in line with deceptively tight structures and modulations. Most of these tunes are mid-tempo to ballads with Monk’s “Evidence” and Parker’s too brief “Cheryl” closing out the album with it’s most toe-tapping moments. More good stuff from another legend continuing to make his mark on modern jazz. Enjoy! - Calin

KIM NALLEY

Need My Sugar

January 30, 2007

Nalley’s smooth vocals about love’s near-misses over bass and piano are strangely addictive. She’s an internationally acclaimed jazz vocalist residing in San Francisco who was named one of the “Ten Most Influential African-American Women in the Bay Area.” This was originally released in Europe. -Pete

Nora Jones

Not Too Late

January 24, 2007

Should be no surprise to anyone that this music is pleasing to the ears: soothing and seductive, in a red lace kind of way. Every tune is solid, though none are particularly remarkable, which is, I think, what IS remarkable: Nora makes some really nice music while staying close to home. That’s not to say that this music is not creative and original, because it is. It’s just amazing how a musician can get so much out of her music without taking up too much musical space. Beautiful, at times haunting, always gentle, even when there’s bad news being conveyed. -- Mostly

Quick Links:

• nora web

avishai cohen

Continuo

January 24, 2007

Herein lies some fine jazz from an accomplished acoustic and electric bassist and his gang of three. With the exception of Emotional Storm and Continuo, this music is neither rambunctious nor sedate, generating just enough energy to get the appendages dancing. There is enough variety to keep the music mostly mellow but interesting without losing itself or the listener. Add the periodic touch of oud, a Middle Eastern lute, and the music takes on an exotic edge. -- Mostly

Quick Links:

• avishai cohen web

GENE CIPRIANO

First Time Out

January 23, 2007

A fun jazz record recorded by one of the most well known saxophonists who has collaborated on such show theme songs as The Simpsons, Dallas, Hawaii 5-0 and the list goes on. This is an album that will lift spirits and immediately get your foot tappin’! A two disc offering by Cipriano, he has returned to the spotlight with a classic jazz album. Check out tracks 1 “Indiana”, track 4 “How About You /All About You”, track 8 “The Preacher”, on the first disc, and tracks 2 “Sunday”, track 6 “Stars Fell On Alabama”, and track 8 “Just Friends/Friends Again”. Lane

SF JAZZ COLLECTIVE

Live 2006

January 23, 2007

The San Francisco Jazz Collective presents a stunning live set of their 2006 repertoire consisting of one original composition from each of the eight band members and six tunes by Herbie Hancock with terrific new arrangements by Gil Goldstien. This all-star group features some of the best voices of the new generation of jazz greats (Joshua Redman, Nicholas Payton, etc.) as well as legendary Blue Note vibes player Bobby Hutcherson. The sounds on the original songs range from pure bebop jams recalling the heyday of Bird and Dizzy, to the lush quartal harmonies pioneered by Gil Evans and Miles Davis in the 1950’s, all with a vibrant and fresh approach. As for the Hancock numbers, Goldstien has done a great job of working new sections into the classic melodies and giving these top-notch soloists room to roam. he unique and beautiful spin on the masterpiece “Maiden Voyage” s a particular delight. For fans of Real Jazz, it doesn’t get much better than this! - Calin

DON BYRON

“Do the Boomerang,” the Music of Junior Walker

January 23, 2007

This is a cool album with Don on sax along with David Gilmore AND Chris Thomas King, redoing Motown most famous saxophoinists tunes. I can see the sessions: “You the man. No, YOU the man…” - Pete

MICROSCOPIC SEPTET

Surrealistic Swing

January 12, 2007

The Microscopic Septet created music that wasn't easily labeled in any one particular style. Although their music swings, it has a novelty sound and doesn't hesitate to briefly delve into avant-garde jazz, Latin music or whatever whimsical notion comes to the mind of the band's composers and soloists. This two-CD compilation is the second part of a complete series of the group's recordings It's apparent that a first-rate reed section was required to tackle these demanding charts and each lineup of the Microscopic Septet manages to swing the heck out of the zany compositions of Phillip Johnston and Joel Forrester. – Allmusic.COM

WAX POETIC

Copenhagen

December 11, 2006

As the founder of Nublu, the Lower East Side institution, he is a musical curator, quietly guiding bands into formation and bringing them into the club’s quarters; as the chief of Nublu’s record label, he is a selector and producer, choosing records that represent the club’s musical movements; and as a musician in five of Nublu’s bands, Ilhan adds his own improvisations and creations into the fold of the ever-developing Nublu Sound. Wax Poetic Copenhagen, the first album in a 3 part series including Istanbul and Brasil as well, joins Ilhan with long-time recording partner Thor Madsen, renowned Swedish pop producer Klas Wikberg, and vocalist Marla Turner. Together they stir up the subdued energy of Northern Europe that sounds eerily congruous with the undercurrent of intensity in Nublu’s hometown, New York City. Bjorkish at times.

ERIC FRAZIER

In Your Own Time

December 11, 2006

Some pretty good songs on here. Not great, but a good transition piece. Latin influenced Blues/Improvisational Jazz. Vocals ok. p

JEFF HEALEY & THE JAZZ WIZARDS

Its Tight Like That

December 11, 2006

Jeff Healey is Canada’s guitar legend—multi-million records sold, blind since the age of 3. He is a musicologist with encyclopedic knowledge of Blues and jazz artists. His side project, the “Jazz Wizards,” who interpret jazz of the 20s and 30s, have brought Healey a new audience. Guest Chris Barber is a British jazz trromboner that coined the phrase “Skiffle Music,” which was the style at the time. P

RACHEL ZAMSTEEN

Bouquet

December 6, 2006

This talented and unique Ani influenced artist got together with musical genius Andres Karu who provides drums, bass, some piano, keyboard, guitar, and even some vocals to provide the perfect touch to Notpop’s first album. Rachel has an extremely interesting style of music, combining the smooth feel, vocals and drums of jazz with strong folk guitar. This 22-year-old is fresh on the music scene but this album speaks volumes with her fun and compelling songwriting and raw musicality. Some songs to hit up are the intro track “Drought,” the following track “This Gun,” and the funky Karu piano lined track 6 “Orion.” Rachel isn’t shy to the piano in tracks 1, 2, and 9 “1984.” -Jake Burritt

DAN SIEGEL

Departure

November 20, 2006

Smooth jazz keyboardist Dan Siegel has been helping shape the genre since his recording debut in 1980. Born in Seattle and raised in Eugene OR, Siegel attended Boston’s Berklee College of Music, and obtained a composition degree from the University of Oregon and immediately started recording his own music. With Departure, an all-acoustic, live-in-the-studio date that marks his second release for Native Language Music, this composer and keyboardist brilliantly blends the melodic and rhythmic pop sensibilities he’s famous for with his traditional jazz roots. Siegel says “Departure is a record I made out of true love and the desire to go in and play in a more organic way.” Following his last release, 2004’s Inside Out, which was one of the year’s most acclaimed smooth Jazz albums with the hit “In Your Eyes” featuring saxophonist Boney James, Departure enhances Siegel’s traditional jazz foundation with soft-spoken piano ballads, light percussion textures, jazzy hi-hats, funky bass lines, and irresistible tenderness. - Jake

RASHIED ALI QUINTET

Judgment Day

November 13, 2006

John Coltrane’s last percussionist, legendary master jazz drummer Rashied Ali has for the past 20 years been operating like an Art Blakey figure in terms of discovering and nurturing new talent. His current working quintet is another cross-generational affair featuring veterans Greg Murphy (piano) and Joris Teepe (bass) and two of New York’s finest young musicians, Lawrence Clark on tenor sax and Jumaane Smith on trumpet. On “Judgment Day,” this tightly knit group swings in fairly conventional postbop fashion on rarely covered tunes. On the topic of covering jazz tunes, the liner notes quote Ali as saying “If they can play Beethoven, why not Coltrane?” While Coltrane is not represented here, the quotation is apt in that the music of such undeniably influential figures as Monk, Shorter and Strayhorn are played with faithfulness and fluent unpredictability. Drum Beat Magazine says, “Though this band rarely plays outside of New York City, this is one of the more potent working quintets in jazz today.” Dusted Magazine says “Rashied Ali is one of the most underrated drummers to emerge from the turbulently exploratory 1960s.” –P

NOMO

Newtones

November 13, 2006

Another jazz/funk party from this Ann Arbor based group. Juicy horn riffs are to be expected, punctuated by lots of Latin rhythms and drum hooks. Fun stuff for any show. Vocals on tracks 4 and 10, all the rest are instrumentals. - Calin

JAVON JACKSON

Now

November 6, 2006

Nothing new to the scene, Javon has been producing easy listening, smooth jazz for years. His creative licks on the sax create a mood for everyone to enjoy. The drumming is also another fantastic addition to all the talented music alive in this release. Some playables on this one are the opening track 1 “In the Sticks,” the funky 8 “Give it Up or Turnit Loose,” and the vocal track featuring Lisa Fischer, 5 “Where is the Love.” Jake

Q-BURNS

Abstract Message

November 6, 2006

Tracks taken off Q-Burns’ Invisible Airline release and severely tweaked by some big name remixers such as Rivera Rotation, Funky Transport, Tetris, and King Britt. Grumptronix sidekicks next to Q-Burns Abstract Message to remix his own This Time on track 9. Other tracks take a different spin on these original tracks by adding Latin drums are track 1 “This Time” remixed by Rivera Rotation, and track 2 “Dreamland” remixed by Thunderball. Jake

FREDDIE CRUGER AKA RED ASTAIRE

Soul Search

October 31, 2006

Freddie Cruger, AKA Red Astaire, is a producer/DJ from Sweden. Hailing from the southern district of Stockholm, Sweden Cruger has been making beats for over a decade. Over the past years Cruger has released 16 tracks and remixes. In addition to being his first full length album, “Soul Search” is one of Cruger’s releases to appear on a medium other than vinyl. The album features elements of funk, jazz, blues, Latin music, and disco. Soul Search illustrates why Cruger has made a permanent home of DJ record boxes across the globe. -Ben Buteyn

MIKE FROST PROJECT

Comin' Straigt At Ya'

October 30, 2006

This Chicago based sextet, led by the Frost brothers, Mike on tenor and soprano saxophone, and Steve on trumpet and flugelhorn, was created and perfected on the Odyssey, a popular luxury cruise ship that commands the waters of Chicago coastline on Lake Michigan. The group’s second release, “Comin’ Straight At Ya’” follows debut album “Nothing Smooth About It”—both of which being rather appropriately named. This album features refreshing acoustic bass special guest Mark Berls on tracks 1 “Wylie’s Windup,” 5 “Search for Peace,” 8 “Nica’s Winter Waltz,” and 10 “Midway’s Lament.” “Comin’ Straight At Ya’” is grooving in all the right places and the beats are bopping at the exact right times. The solos are righteous and soulful, and the instrumentalists are blowing harder than Chicago’s infamous winter wind. MFP has given Chicago a prized organ combo that has landed the group a much sought after regular night at the downtown jazz club Andy’s. The Mike Frost Project stands out of the typical jazz crowd by incorporating the classic 20th century groove to a 21st century respectable artistic musical technique. Some jams to pay attention to on this album are opening, upbeat track 1 “Wylie’s Windup,” the funky 2 “Vicious Dex-O-Licious,” the big band tribute track 9 “Aw Geez,” and the percussion showing off 11 “I’ll Remember April.” -Jake Burritt

THE JOHN POPPER PROJECT feat. DJ Logic

October 30, 2006

It’s an easy listen for those who enjoy John Popper’s style of music. This particular album offers a southern soulful twist with an electronic essence. Also, Dj Logic has great turntabalism technique adding a unique twist to Poppers soulful style of singing. -Mitchell Murphy

Club D'Elf

Now I Understand

October 13, 2006

The Boston-based Jazz/Electronica/Funk/Jam band, Club D'Elf, has finally recorded their first studio album. The band has been performing together, with or without select "club members," once a week at The Lizzard Lounge in Cambridge, MA and many other hot spots across the nation and in other countries. They pulled together an enormous pool of 100 talented musicians to produce Now I Understand, displaying the endless number of options available to Mike Rivard, bass player and group's musical mastermind. Some of their creations include: 2 "Bass Beat Box," 3 "Hungry Ghosts," 4 "Quilty," 6 "A Toy for a Boy," 8 "What Would Cthulhu Do," 11 "Wetbones," and 12 "Vision of Kali." Be prepared to lose consciousness from Club D'Elf's style inspired by African and Middle Eastern trance. Jake Burritt

Quick Links:

• Club D'Elf

Stanton Moore

III

October 13, 2006

This is the third solo release from Stanton Moore, drummer and co-founder of Galactic. If you like Galactic’s music, just wait until you hear Galactic’s drummer’s music! It’s the same! It’s one of those spin-off projects that doesn’t spin too far—not that there’s anything wrong with that. This is the same kind of genre-bending jazz we get from Galactic themselves, Medeski, Martin & Wood, John Scofield and our own Organissimo. No vocals, a bit of jamming. The native New Orleanian tops off the album with the bluesy “When the Levee Breaks” and a proud, hopeful take on the gospel classic “I Shall Not Be Moved”. – Arthur Longrapids

Quick Links:

• Stanton Moore

FRANK KIMBROUGH

Play

October 13, 2006

Frank is an important jazz dude. In 1992, he co-founded the acclaimed Jazz Composers Collective with Ben Allison and has stayed a key contributer, contributing to over 20 side projects related to the group. He and Allison also co-founded the Herbie Nichols Project. “Play” is spontaneous, improvisational and intriguing. –Pete

Quick Links:

• Frank Kimbrough

MSMW

Out Louder

September 11, 2006

This is the first total collaboration of the four artists. John Scofield’s release A Go Go simply utilized MMW; this time, it came from all of them. What more could anyone want in a record?? -Pete Drover

Quick Links:

• MMW

MADEiLINE PEYROUX

Half the Perfect World

September 4, 2006

On her third release Madeleine covers some old ones. Lawrence Welk never heard them done quite this well. Many of the tracks have that slow shuffle wing heard at senior dances. None the less, this womans beautiful voice can breath new life into any old dead tune. Blue Alert is taken from the Leonard Cohen Ajani collaboration that just came out. The sad Joni Mitchell Christmas song, River, is to die for when the two Extraordinary voices ombine, thanks to KD. Of course, She has to include one sexy French pop song. Ive never seen this woman sing but her voice leads me to think she is one of the great beauties of our time. TD

Quick Links:

• Madeleine Peyroux
• Rounder Records-Madeleine Peyroux

WILLE BOBO

Lost and Found

August 21, 2006

Perhaps the best-known--certainly now the best-remembered--Latin jazz percussionist of the 1960s, Bobo was one of the key players who fused influences from Latin soul, rock, and jazz in the late 1960s and 1970s. Raised in New York City, he studied the conga and timbales with Mongo Santamaria and Armando Peraza (who can to fame in George Shearing's group), and began working professionally as a band bay for Machito in the early 1950s. Peraza introduced him to George Shearing and Bobo played on Shearing's first album for Capitol, The Shearing Spell. Throughout the 1950s, he accompanied numerous jazz artists such as Stan Getz, particularly on studio sessions--especially when everone had to record a mambo or cha-cha somewhere in the course of their contract. Another jazz pianist, Mary Lou Williams, is said to have given him the nickname "Bobo" around this time. He and his former teacher Santamaria reunited in 1960 to record Sabroso! for Fantasy. Soon after that, he picked up a contract as a solo artist for Roulette Records, which was looking for another artist to ride on the coattails of Ray Barretto's hit instrumental, "El Watusi." Bobo's career with Roulette ended about as quickly as the Watusi craze. He did one album for Latin label Tico, but his big break came in 1965, when he played with Cal Tjader on Tjader's highly successful Latin jazz album, Soul Sauce. Verve signed Bobo and quickly released his album, Spanish Grease, soon thereafter. Like many of Verve's jazz artists, Bobo covered current pop hits as often as more serious Latin and jazz material. At the time, this choice was pretty much a sure-fire way to get panned by jazz critics, but in recent years, Bobo's albums have been reissued to new acclaim and provided a rich sampling source for breakbeat artists. In the late 1960s, he moved to Los Angeles, where he worked as a session musician with Carlos Santana and others after his Verve contract expired. He played with the studio band on "The Cosby Show" before falling ill and dying in 1983

Quick Links:

• Concord Jazz-Willie Bobo

Brisa Roche

The Chase

August 7, 2006

Children often pass through many phases as they decide what to be when they grow up. The prospective ballet dancer eventually opts to fight fires, the aspiring veterinarian blossoms into a Wall Street financial whiz. But not so for Brisa Roche. Long before she made The Chase, her sultry debut album for Metro Blue Records (an imprint of Blue Note Records), the American-born, Parisian-based singer-songwriter knew that she was destined to be a musician. And through a variety of adventures, stretched across two continents, she never lost sight of that goal. Brisa stays centered and strengthens her core: “I am attached to the physical aspect of singing, the breathing and phrasing, and the storytelling. Between the repetition in melody and words, and the rhythmic act of breathing and singing, there is a very hypnotic angle.” Hypnotic. Mesmerizing. Seductive. These are all adjectives that embody The Chase. The Chase introduces Brisa Roche to the world at large - hopefully, it can keep up with her. For while her music is suave and cool, her spirit is still, as ever, raging. - Publicity

Quick Links:

• Brisa Roche
• BRISA ROCHE OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Rykarda Parasol

Our Hearts First Meet

August 7, 2006

Inspired by personal life experiences, Rykarda Parasol unleashes a solid follow-up to the well-received EP, "Here She Comes", released in 2003. "Our Hearts First Meet" features performances by Colleen Brown (Pale Saints), Rich Douthit (the Drift), Jeffrey Luck Lucas, and Neil Busch (...Trail of Dead). Rykarda has been compared to Nick Cave, Nico and the Velvet Underground, PJ Harvey, Siouxsie Sioux, and Johnny Cash. – Ben Kleine "The songs are moody, vampish noir tales; David Lynch would need just one listen to Parasol's eerie delivery to draft them as the house band on his next film project.” – SplendidEZine.com 8. instrumental 11. "nigger" 14. instrumental

Quick Links:

• Rykarda Parasol
• Three Ring Records - Rykarda Parasol

LONNIE SMITH

Jungle Soul

July 24, 2006

As the first track starts, “Trouble Man”, all that came to mind was SNL’s The Ladies’ Man. Smith’s Hammond B3 Organ is very reminiscent to that likes of the comedy sketch’s opening tune. Smith’s organ are his vocals (with the exception of the distant humming and dada’s and dodo’s in the background); as the B3 takes over for the lack of vocals, Lonnie Smith’s style is superb. With a couple of guitar solos for good measure, the back and forth of the B3 organ and guitar does enough to validate a wonderful jazz album that will be enjoyed at any dinner or cocktail party or even summer afternoon cookout. Track 4, “Willow Weep For Me” is a classic example of the beautiful jazz styles of Smith. Track 8, “Bemsha Swing” is another gorgeous song that is an infusion of swing and jazz genres. Track 9, “Zimbabwe” and track 10, “Jungle Wisdom” both have a traditional feel to them, only with a jazz kick to it. Two more great songs for indie radio. Lane Zoerhof

Quick Links:

• THE OFFICIAL WEBSITE of DR. LONNIE SMITH

DJ LOGIC

Zen of Logic

July 24, 2006

In the tradition of giving credit where credit is due, do any of these groups ring a bell: Jesse Mae Hemphill, Liquid Soul, Chris Whitley, Medeski Martin and Wood, Yohimbe Brothers, Tuatara, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Jeff Coffin, Jason Miles, Christian Mc Bride, String Cheese Incident, Particle, Soulive, DJ Spooky, Karl Denson? The zen of Logic has touched all of these bands albums in the last few years. I heard about a show at “The Wetlands” in Manhattan, where “Project Logic” was hosted weekly before the venue was buried under rubble. A particularly good show on 9/10/01 also ended quite late. Lets just say its safe to assume that a few dozen attendees, lucky in more ways than one, didn’t make it to work on time the next day--Which goes to show, good music saves lives! Or…let it be a lesson to go out frequently. The Zen of Logic is DJ Logic’s forth studio recording. – Pete

Quick Links:

• DJ LOGIC

PETER KATER

10 Questions for the Dalai Lama

July 19, 2006

"The experience of listing to the music on this soundtrack by multi-Grammy-nominated pianist/composer Peter Kater, is best described as sublime." Filmmaker Rick Ray traveled to India to seek the wisdom of the Dalai Lama, documenting the journey in his film, 10 Questions for the Dalai Lama. The soundtrack created for the film expresses through music the grace and serenity Ray saw in His Holiness. No English 2, 4 - 7, 9 instrumental Recommended tracks: 3, 11 -Ben Kleyn

LISA KARP

Fucsia Blues w/ Dr. John

July 5, 2006

Years ago torch singer Lisa Karp walked fresh into NYC from Williamsport PA to pursue her music career and met Dr John outside a venue. Long story short, they become friends. In their first collaboration in the year 2000, Dr John asked her to write lyrics for a swing tune he was recording with the Max Weinberg 7. On this release, Dr John sings a nice duet with her on track 2, co-arranges tracks 1 and 3, and plays most of the instruments on track 6. -Pete

Quick Links:

• Official Site

DANIEL SMITH

Bebop Bassoon

July 5, 2006

Daniel Smith is one of the world's most prominent bassoon soloists. He studied at the Manhattan School of Music, Columbia University, and the Mannes College of Music. Smith has recorded numerous discs, with repertoire ranging from Baroque concerti to contemporary music, including jazz with a quartet under his own leadership, ragtime, and crossover. Daniel Smith is the first bassoonist to have recorded all 37 Vivaldi bassoon concertos, in recordings made with the English Chamber Orchestra and I Solisti di Zagreb for the label ASV). Smith's Vivaldi set was selected as the Best Concerto Recording of the Year by the Music Industry Association, awarded the Penguin Guide's rosette rating, and was included in Fanfare's annual "Want List." Smith has also recorded with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra and the Caravaggio Ensemble. Smith is also noted for his support of the creation of new concerti for his chosen instrument. He gave the United States West Coast premiere of Gunther Schuller's Concerto for Contrabassoon and Orchestra and the world premiere of Steve Gray's Jazz Suite for Bassoon with the Welsh Chamber Orchestra. Daniel Smith has performed solo recitals at New York's Lincoln Center and Carnegie Recital Hall, Wigmore Hall, the BBC Concert Hall, and the Tivoli Concert Hall in Copenhagen.- AMG

Quick Links:

• Official Website

GNAPPY

Unloaded

June 23, 2006

A fun and energetic jazz release funk and New Orleans influences, although probably closer to Galactic. The third album by Gnappy. Pretty good…makes you want to play it loud. Track 4 is the only vocal track, spoken word. -P

Quick Links:

• Official Web Site

ELVIS COSTELLO AND ALLEN TOUSSAINT (“Two-SAHN-t”)

The River in Reverse

June 23, 2006

This cross-generational collaboration between two veteran performers is hopefully here to stay. Produced by Joe Henry, this is the best post-Katrina protest release to date. It’s fun, musically excellent, yet bittersweet. “The Imposters” are the featured backup band. Five (4,8,9,10,13) new collaborative songs and one new Costello (title track). The rest are interpretations of Toussaint originals. –Pete

Quick Links:

• The official website of Elvis Costello
• The Elvis Costello Home Page

THE CHEEBACABRA

Exile in the Woods

June 23, 2006

The Cheebacabra’s latest album, “Exile In The Woods” is a fusion of blues and electronica. Described by another music publication as “Disney World on acid”, “Exile In The Woods” is that and a whole lot more. My take was similar to that of others; take early Nintendo video game music, speed it up, and add some blues percussion and you get this album. With no lyrics, this album gets very tiresome as many of the songs sound alike. It wasn’t until the last couple of songs that this album got interesting. Track 10, “Dysplatic Nevi” had a smooth blues bass riff that made the track bearable. The last track, “Exile In The Woods” also had a quite soft bluesy percussion section that actually sounded pretty good. This track would be the only one worth listening to however. If you could see the cover art (which by the way is a beautiful piece by Desmond Morris via 1976 entitled “The Arena”), picture it while listening to this album and maybe the songs make sense; but without it, there’s too much noise and not enough quality sound. - Lane Zoerhof

Quick Links:

• Official Web Site

Christian Mc Bride

Live At Tonic

June 2, 2006

Modern bass master McBride has worked with everyone from jazz legends like McCoy Tyner and Joe Henderson to contemporaries like Joshua Redman and Diana Krall to rock and hip hop acts like Sting and The Roots. This astonishing three disc set recorded live in New York features some of the best improvisational jazz and fusion music to come to our library In a long time. With guests like Charlie Hunter, DJ Logic, and The Roots original beat-box virtuoso Scratch, the immensely talented band moves seamlessly from straight jazz sounds to funk and rock influences all with a back beat that never lets you go. Discs 2 and 3 are complete sets, fully improvised, with some very long run times, but don’t be scared. If you can find fifteen or twenty minuets to spare in your set, your listeners will be rewarded. This is truly great stuff from one of the best musiciansand bandleaders working today in any genre! Have fun!! -Calin

Bobby Previte

The Coalition of the Willing

June 2, 2006

The presence of jazz guitar legend Charlie Hunter (who seems to be popping up everywhere lately) along with members of Sex Mob and Galactic should give you some clue as to the nature of this new effort from composer/drummer Bobby Previte. All instrumental, these tunes are mostly blues driven jams with more emphasis on the rock influences than the jazz, but with no shortage of intricate rhythms and interesting chords. Another fine funk fusion release from our friends at Ropeadope records. -Calin

Kevin Hays

Open Range

June 2, 2006

Exquisite solo piano jazz numbers from accomplished composer Kevin Hays, who has played with jazz greats such as Sonny Rollins, John Scofield and Joshua Redman. There is one vocal number on the disc: a unique rendition of “You Are My Sunshine,” but performed in a way that completely remakes the song. Three other songs (#2, #4, #9) contain some Native American vocalizing in the background to go with the album’s theme. One other selection (“Harmonium”) finds Hays “dampening” the strings of the piano and plucking them from the inside of the instrument. This is reflective, quiet -- almost classical – music rather than your Friday-drive-home soundtrack.

Liquid Soul

One-Two Punch

June 2, 2006

Get ready for maximum impact as the grammy-nominated Chicago-based combo steps it up a bit here in their fifth recording and their Telarc debut. Guest appearances include Vernon Reid (Living Color), Jojo Hermann (Widespread Panic keyboardist) and DJ Logic among others. #2 After 10pm -Pete

Dr. John

Mercernary

June 2, 2006

Some say that there should be some kind of rule that bans certain artists from releasing several albums in a year. Others say, hey, its Dr. John for craps sake. Others simply don’t care. This is a “tribute” album of Johnny Mercer covers. Its pretty good! -Pete

Edye Evan Hyde

A Lady With A Song

May 8, 2006

Edye Evans Hyde has been performing jazz, blues and pop music for over 20 years in West Michigan, Los Angeles and Asia. Edye has shared the stage with world renowned blues singer Linda Hopkins, pop singer Michael Bolton, actress Connie Stevens, as well as some of LA’s finest musicians. She has just recently opened for the incredible Ray Charles. "A Lady With a Song: A Cabaret" is her newest album. On this album, the songs are slow and jazzy with her voice as the perfect vehicle to move it along. -Michelle Tolodziecki

Various Artists

ReBop: The Savoy Remixes

May 8, 2006

Re: Bop-The Savoy Remixes features some of the greatest samplers and remix producers of the modern era, brilliantly remixing revolutionary tracks from the classic Savoy Jazz catalog. The result is a coming together of innovators from two generations-the original bebop pioneers and the original hip hop and dance music masters. -amazon.com Also of note, see VA-J 8.39 The Savoy Originals

Thievery Corporation

Versions

May 8, 2006

Electronic duo Thievery Corporation will issue a compilation of its remixes, Versions, in April on its own ESL Music label. The album highlights a number of rare and hard-to-find remixes, including Sarah McLachlan's Dirty Little Secret, Herb Albert's Lemon Tree, The Doors Strange Days, Nouvelle Vague's This Is Not a Love Song and In Love from Ben Folds' "Fear of Pop" project. -Michelle Tolodziecki

Dr. John Hair & New Connections

When The Spirit Gets You!

May 8, 2006

Dr. John Hair is a local treasure. Otherwise known as “Dr.J,” (as in Dr.J’s Jazz Café on Monroe Ctr) the widely respected trombonist is known for his leadership and involvement in the West Michigan jazz community. This album is comprised of all original homegrown compositions of national caliber. -Pete

Nomo

Newtones

May 8, 2006

Hopefully, someday, Ill be able to get track one out of my head. This Ann Arbor based Afrobeat/Fusion octet is ready to hit the road now that their fans have basically forced them into the national eye with an onslaught of persuasive emails to jazz labels. They are finally ready to hit the road with Detroit favorite His Name is Alive, and lets hope they speak well of us back in Michigan because everyone’s going to be listening to their raw propulsive rhythms and infectious melodies. -Pete

Tunnels

Natural Selection

May 8, 2006

Natural Selection marks the fifth release from this jazz-rock fusion outfit. The disc mixes raw energy with musical mixdowns to create a unique experience. Tracks of interest include #1 “Devil’s Staircase”, #5 “The 11th Hour”, and #8 “Green Eyes”. #3 is really "Nobody never hurt nobody with the blues" #7 is really "Believe It" (They are switched on the back of the album)

The Mackrosoft

Antonio's Giraffe

May 8, 2006

The Mackrosoft combines some of the best musicians in funk, soul, hip-hop and jazz to pay homage to the Brazilian composer Antonio Carlos Jobim with all original material. The album shocases South American and African tinged performances using some of Jobim's favorite instuments. -Spectre Entertainment Group

Colin Stranahan

Transformation

May 8, 2006

The second CD from a 19-year-old drummer and band leader shows uncommon maturity as the kids allows a fine ensemble of surrounding musicians to dominate the spotlight while he controls the action from the wings with a steady, yet creative rhythm. To keep the youth theme going, pianist Remy Le Beouf is even younger, at 18, and his compositions are impressive. Guest trumpeter Greg Gisbert stands out the most of any one musician; perhaps that makes sense since the boys in the main group are intent to play as a team throughout. Age is served, however, via Colin’s dad, Jim, whose piece “It’s Not Always About You” is my favorite on the disc. 4/06 MJVD Jazz-Contemporary

Robin McKelle

Introducing

May 8, 2006

This is Robin McKelle's first album released by Cheap Lullaby Records. However, she is no stranger to the music world, as she has been performing since the age of four. McKelle has a powerful voice that gives life to the already hoppin' parlor-jazz type music throughout the album. -michelle t

The RH Factor

Distractions

May 8, 2006

Packed with new jams, Distractions carries an old school, funky vibe. The disc grooves across smooth vocals and jazz beats, as the group jams on a variety of soulful tunes and showcases Roy Hargrove’s talents as a composer. Check out #2 “Crazy Race”, the ultra-funky #8 “Hold On”, and the down and dirty instrumental #3 “Kansas City Funk”.

The New Orleans Social Club

Sing Me Back Home

April 19, 2006

Six weeks after Hurricane Katrina, a group of legendary but displaced musicians got together in Austin, TX and recorded this album in seven days. The “dream team” includes Ivan Neville on organ, Henry Butler on piano, and two founding members of the Meters—Leo Nocentelli on guitar and George Porter Jr on bass. George assumed the role of music director, and the group was called the New Orleans Social Club. Joining the core band are many big name guests, as noted on the album cover. Sing Me Back Home is a wonderful disc that promotes affirmation of life along with hope and healing in the wake of Katrina. Check out #1 “This Is My Country” with Cyril Neville, #4 “Walking to New Orleans” by Dr. John, and #8 “99 ½ Won’t Do”, performed by Mighty Chariots of Fire.

Joris Teepe's Gronigan Art Ensemble

Jazz In Jazz Out

April 19, 2006

Dutch jazz! The Groningen Art Ensemble is a unique collective of artists with a common interest in jazz as well as education. While the ensemble members have settled in the New York Metropolitan area they all share jazz education responsibilities at the Prins Claus Conservatoire of the Hanze University in Groningen, The Netherlands. I liked the sound of this gathering of jazz teachers; it is primarily catchy, accessible combo stuff. The most esoteric track is the Ellington number (#7), which may or may not entice programmers. I particularly liked the drumming of Ralph Peterson throughout. Cuts #2, #6 and #11 are vocals; the remainder instrumentals. 3/06 MJVD Jazz-Contemporary \

3ósity

3ósity (Capri)

April 19, 2006

Denver-based organ trio in a program running the gamut from Hendrix to Steve Allen that along the way traverses originals and covers of modern jazz classics by McCoy Tyner, Kenny Dorham, Kenny Kirkland and Monk, "WITH A NOD to the tradition of greats like Jimmy Smith and Kenny Burrell, but with both feet (all six feet?) decidedly in the present, 3ósity updates the organ trio with a fun collection of songs The best practitioners of the organ-guitar-drums formula find new repertoire to update the sound; 3ósity succeeds by doing just that. " - JazzWeek

Catherine Russell

Cat

April 5, 2006

This is the debut album for this jazz vocalist. With both her father (Luis Russell – Louis Armstrong’s long-tie music director) and mother (Carline Ray – bassist and vocalist) working with some of the biggest names in jazz and blues, Catherine was raised in the scene and it shows within her variety of jazz and country blues tunes. For some smooth jazz tunes give #1 “Sad Lover Blues” and #9 “Back O Town Blues” a try. Also take some time to listen to her cover of Louis Jordan on #8 “Juneteenth Jamboree”.

Larry Carlton

Fire Wire

April 5, 2006

Larry Carlton has been the only white Crusader, has played some of the classic guitar riffs from Steely Dan & has been part of the smooth Jazz group Fourplay. He has dozens of solo CD’s that range from smooth jazz to the Blues. On his latest CD produced by Csaba Petocz who has worked with the likes of Lynard Skynard, Ted Nugent & Mettalica as well as Jazz & blues artists like Etta James & Aaron Neville, Larry Blurs all the boundaries between Jazz & Rock. This CD may alienate fans of his smoother Jazz sounds , but will bring new listeners who loved the guitar based jazz fusion sounds of the 1970’s as well as rock oriented guitarists like Jeff Beck & the rocker Eric Johnson. The only slower track on this Disc is the Caribbean Jazz sounds of “Sunrise” otherwise this is true Jazz-Rock guitar fusion bliss.

SONDRE LERCHE & THE FACES DOWN QUARTET

Duper Sessions

March 8, 2006

In Duper Sessions, Norwegian singer-songwriter Sondre Lerche takes a break from the norm and explores the classic crooner sound he's always loved. The album transports the listener to a different time and place, but it is far from sounding outdated. This music is very soothing and upbeat at the same time. The vocals are very catchy and go very nicely with the music. - Michelle T Setting the clock back to the days of the soulful jazz crooners, Duper Sessions contains a mix of original classic-sounding tracks as well as covers of Elvis Costello, Cole Porter, and Prefab Sprout’s Paddy McAloon. – Ryan Terpstra

FRED HERSCH

In Amsterdam: Live at the Bimhuis.

February 28, 2006

Recorded live May 31, 2003, this is somewhat of an unintentional CD. “I was simply playing a concert, unaware that I was being recorded.” Hersch is the most prolific and widely praised solo jazz pianist of his generation. Two-time Grammy nominee, yet eclectic. -P

ERIN BODE

Over and Over

February 20, 2006

What a great voice! She likes to cover pop classics (3 – Paul Simon, 11 – Simply Red) but there are enough originals on here that, along with her girlish charm and innocent P.K. background, allow one to be understanding about it. -Pete

EMP PROJECT

Wherever We Go

February 20, 2006

Another guitar led jazz group, does anyone else see a trend developing in’06? This is solid stuff, though like a lot of modern guitar jazz it goes for more of a jam band style improvisation than the complex chord challenging solos of greats like Kenny Burrell or contemporaries like Scofield. mostly mid-tempo grooves that are all pleasant enough, and only one track over six minutes in lengh (the title track clocks in at 8:40) so you can find a place for it in almost any set. But dig deeper in the library if you are looking for something that pushes boundaries. Go forth and play jazz!!
- Calin

THE BLUECAT EXPRESS

The Spirit of New Orleans

February 15, 2006

Sometimes out of tragedy & diversity rise great things. This has certainly been true of the on slot of wonderful recordings & tribute discs that have come from the Crescent City since Katrina left town. This disc covers 16 tracks of popular recordings from New Orleans; most tracks are done in a Jazz fashion though this eight piece band does dabble into Cajun & Zydeco tunes. The only real misstep I found on this disc was the Zydeco tinged "Don't Mess with My Toot-Toot"; I really enjoy how the band intertwines both the Male & Female vocals and along with the horn section to really capture " The Spirit of New Orleans". So if you can't make the trip to Jazz Fest this year, turn this recording up & imagine taking a stroll through the Beer Drenched clubs of the French Quarter. You may not get flashed, but you won't be disappointed. Reviewed By: Gregg Saur

HOT CLUB OF COWTOWN

Four Dead Batteries - Original Soundtrack

February 15, 2006

This CD should be filed under The Hot Club of Cowtown combing 10 tracks previously recorded between 1998 & 2002 as well as 5 new tracks from founding member Whit Smith's new 5 piece band the Hot Jazz Caravan. As with the Hot Club of Cowtown Whit keeps the sounds of old time Western Swing & Jazz stylings extremely fresh. The only thing missing on the new tracks was some of missing member Elana Fremerman's excellent fiddle solos. This disc & Whit's new band will keep fans of the Cowtown happy & if the Movie has any success hopefully introduce this excellent new band to a host of new fans. Reviewed By: Gregg Saur

LARRY GOLDINGS

Quartet

February 8, 2006

Mainly known for his work on the B-3, the release featured Goldings primarily on the piano. He also plays Wurlitzer, Hammond B-3, Hammond organ, harmonium, accordion and glockenspiel. He’s joined by Ben Allison on bass and Matt Wilson on drums and percussion.

Quartet features 12 tracks including interpretations of Bjork’s Cocoon, Gabriel Faure’s Au Bord de L’eau, and Thelonious Monk’s Jackie-ing, and is rounded out by Madeline Peyroux singing W.C. handy’s Hesitation Blues. -P

THE REBIRTH

This Journey In

February 7, 2006

Rich sound built on an organic blend of new and traditional soul, hip-hop, jazz and funk. Melody, rhythm, lyrics, instrumentation, arrangement, performance and production are equally emphasized. -P

BEAT KAESTLI

Happy, Sad and Satisfied.

January 31, 2006

Only the music gurus at WYCE can find stuff like this: Swiss jazz. Young singer/arranger Beat Kaestli (born and raised in Switzerland, but now a NYC crooner) is in the Harry Connick, Jr. mode and while we don’t need even more versions of “Autumn Leaves” (what is up with everyone covering that chestnut over the last year?), this kid’s strength is in his arrangements and his instrumental compadres.

I think the disc gets better in the second half, with the instrumentation carrying cuts #7-#10. Listen especially to the trumpet in “So in Love,” the bass and sax in “Tenderly” and the organ in the interesting set-closer “I (Who Have Nothing)” * who remembers Tom Jones singing that on Top 40 radio? It is also different to hear a male lead on Gershwin’s “Summertime.” If this youngster wants to make it, my advice is to keep up the good work on the arrangements and choose less predictable numbers; that’s what makes the second half of this CD more intriguing.

1/06 MJVD Jazz-Contemporary (vocal)

ROGER DAVIDSON TRIO

Ten to Twelve.

January 30, 2006

For those programmers who pine for another Vince Guaraldi experience after watching "A Charlie Brown Christmas," here's another set of simple but pleasing piano-bass-drums trio music. Other than yet another ill-fated rendition of "Autumn Leaves" (arrrrgggh! enough already!), Roger and his pals competently handle these arrangements and the rhythm section actually gets to pop out into the spotlight with some regularity.

1/06 MJVD Jazz-Contemporary

BURT BACHARACH

At ThisTime

January 16, 2006

A meaningful album to Burt, dedicated to his children (pictured inside)—yet, it is lounge music. Track 3 & 8 feat. Chris Botti, track 4: Elvis Costello, track 7 Rufus Wainwright. Nothing crazy or edgy in here, and yes it gets dull at times but the lyrics can be nice. You can definitely hear his influence in many of our library albums, the “Twilight Singers” 2000 release to name a not so obvious one.

MATTHEW SHIPP

One

January 16, 2006

This is a soulful album that highlights Shipp’s skills in composition and his virtuosity on the keys.

HAPPY APPLE

The Peace Between Our Companies

January 2, 2006

Sunnyside Avant garde jazz from this hip three-person ensemble from Minneapolis * saxophone, bass and drums. The name comes from a Fisher-Price baby toy. Drummer David King is also in the same seat for another recent jazz addition to our library, The Bad Plus. Like those "Bad" boys, Happy Apple chooses a minimalist approach to the music, with clever titles to some of the songs (like "See Sun Spot Run"). This is not jazz for those desiring the melodic * and that's typically my style * but there's something interesting about the structure of the longer cuts that had me listening intently. There's method to the madness. At the same time, the short blasts of sound (#1, #3 and #8) are great, too. My favorite of the set is the quiet but meaningful "Ella by Midnight" (#7) * Talk about capturing a mood! If you're frightened from improvisation, stick with the quick cuts. -MJVD

PETER ROM TRIO

Says Who?!

January 2, 2006

Four words to describe this album: Medeski, Martin & Weird. Do we have a J-Jam Band category? Maybe we should. That is to say that this Austrian threesome has the same funky chops as MMW, but tends to get a little more out there, a la Phish. As the jacket art suggests, Rom likes to experiment with the sounds his guitar produces — not just through his artful noodling, but also through the array of digital signal processors strewn about the album cover. That said, he is more of a jazz guitarist than an electronic gearhead, so the effects don’t cover up the quality of his playing. Although this is jazz more than it is anything else, this disc tends to lean further toward Primus than it does Primeau or Parker. Nonetheless, these 11 live-recorded tracks should satisfy both the adventurous jazzophile and the programmer who wishes that WYCE’s motto was “Folk, Blues, Rock, Worldbeat and, once in a great while, Jazz.” ::arthur longrapids::

NIA QUINTET

End of Time

January 2, 2006

Thirty-year-old Chicago trumpeter Scott Anderson leads this ensemble through 11 of his own compositions in a pretty straightforward construction of alternating solos. While Anderson can obviously play the horn, it is saxo- phonist Daniel Nicholson that steals most of the show here. His solos keep a few of these cuts afloat and whenever he takes the lead (such as in the opening number), something interesting happens. Pianist Tom Vaitsas does the same on the title track. Rule one of being a band leader is to get some good musicians around you – and that our young trumpet-playing friend did. Anderson plays the piano solo on the introspective “Past, Present, Future.” The closer is a Native American sounding flute/horn duet. -MJVD

THE BIG THREE TRIO

We Got Rhythm

January 2, 2006

Amazingly packaged by hand (cool drumsticks in the jewel case), the picture of the three old guys on the back doesn’t get one thinking those dudes have much rhythm left – but that would be wrong! I liked this swing/standards set from these three. Big Joe Maher is the leader of “Big Joe & The Dynaflows” and pianist John Cocuzzi is from the same swing band. This particular set is a mix of instrumentals (#1, #4, #5, #10, #12) and vocals (the rest); all of the instrumentals are nicely done as a piano-bass-drums trio and ditto for the vocals, with the exception of the most famous tunes. We really don’t need these guys doing another version of “God Bless the Child,” for example. But there are great lesser-known tunes they do up well, such as “Dead Presidents” (#7) and “Ain’t the Gravy Good?” (#9). Bravo, gents! Keep swingin’ (gives us aging music lovers hope). -MJVD

VARIOUS ARTISTS

Smooth Chill

January 2, 2006

Techno-jazz from Britain, Japan, Germany, New Zealand and Canada. A typical pattern here is basic rhythm track layered-over with ambient vocals (see #2, #3, #4, #7, #8, #9, #10). From what I could tell, only the vocals on “Falling” (#7) and “Crazy Moon” (#9) are constructed in a way that really has lyrics as opposed to vocal sounds and “Falling” is more a jazzy r-and-b number than smooth jazz. “Autumn Leaves” (#2) samples a couple of lines from that jazz standard. - MJVD

L. ZIADE

Project Chill: Memoirs of a Jazz Band

January 2, 2006

Lorel Zaide (“ZAY-dee”) was born and raised in Chicago as a first generation American to parents from the Philippines. He earned a degree in Hotel/restaurant management from UNLV while playing in Las Vegas Jazz clubs and running a DJ business. He moved back to Chicago, then rounded up his Las Vegas jazz band to record this album of 10 of the most popular jazz tunes ever written. The band is tight but safe, but this will do quite well if you are in the mood for standards. - Pete

DAN BARASZU

Nightfall

December 22, 2005

Refreshing contemporary guitar-driven jazz from a great new artist. Great rhythm section, upright bass. -Pete

JAKE SHIMABUKURO

Dragon

December 22, 2005

This Hawaiian is absolutely amazing, he’s to the Ukulele what Bela Fleck is to the Banjo. He calls his instrument “an untapped source of music with unlimited potential.” We got this cd when he opened for Karl Denson; he has also performed with Bela Fleck. He was named Hawaii’s goodwill ambassador to Japan in 2004. -Pete

KELOMAT

Kelomat

December 22, 2005

Austrian improvisational esoteric jazz not really meant for American ears. Purists are not going to like Kelomat’s cynical version of “Giant Steps,” but this group is full of joyful artistic talent, even if it is a bit irreverent. -Pete

VARIOUS ARTISTS

Our New Orleans

December 10, 2005

This is a benefit album of all new tracks comprised of artists from the New Orleans community. Net proceeds from the album are to be donated to Habitat for Humanity, production costs were donated by Nonesuch/Warner. -Pete

Ivo Antognini Jazz Project

Feggari Mou

December 3, 2005

This is the third full length release from this prolific film score composer, Swiss-Italian Ivo Antognini. The Jazz Project features a distinct voice, accordion, saxophones, the bassetthorn, the French horn and the flugelhorn alternating alongside a piano trio. -Pete

Organissimo

This is the Place

August 8, 2005

Lansing’s Jammie Award-winning jazz trio Organissimo is back at it with a new independently released album. In their 5 years together, the trio of Jim Alfredson (organ), Joe Gloss (guitar) and Randy Marsh (drums), has become one of Michigan’s premiere B-3 based live bands. Drawing inspiration from greats like Jimmy Smith and Joey deFrancesco, Organissimo is creating a unique chemistry with original compositions that are quickly becoming WYCE classics.

Quick Links:

• The Big O

MeShell Ndegeocello

The Spirit Music Jamia: Dance of the Infidel

June 15, 2005

Bassist MeShell Ndegeocello makes the jump to Shanachie Records for the deepest jazz exploration of her career.

For the new disc, MeShell is content to provide the bass groove while acting as band leader for a host of ground-breaking musicians. Vocals are provided by Cassandra Wilson, Lalah Hathaway and “Brazilian Girl” Sabina. Luminaries like Don Byron, Jack de Johnette, Kenny Garrett, and Oliver Lake help lay down the funk.

Quick Links:

• Mary Johnson
• meshell.com
• Shanachie

Ted Nash & Odeon

La Espada de La Noche

June 14, 2005

Ted Nash is the nephew of "the other" Ted Nash, a sax player who made his name as a sideman for Henry Mancini in the mid-20th century.

The Ted Nash in question here was a teenage sax prodigy, playing lead alto in Quincy Jones’ band by the age of 17. He recorded his first album in 1979 and has acted as band leader of his own quartet for the better part of 15 years.

The new release teams Nash for the second time with Odeon, a group of musicians who bring violin, tuba, accordion and drums to the mix to add an Old World feel to compositions by Dizzy Gillespie, Zequinha Abreu and Nash himself.

Quick Links:

• Ted
• Ted Web

Joshua Redman Elastic Band

Momentum

June 6, 2005

Saxophonist, composer and bandleader Joshua Redman steps back to the plate with two new releases on Nonesuch Records.

The recordings display two sides of the ground-breaking artist; the first, the new electric album from Redman's "Elastic Band", shows off his funk and groove chops in a collaboration with keyboardist Sam Yahel. Guest artists on this disc include MeShell Ndegeocello, The Roots’ ?uestlove and the Red Hot Chili Peppers’ Flea.

The next features Redman as Artistic Director for a loose group of like-minded composers calling themselves the SF Jazz Collective. This live acoustic disc is a selection of traditional jazz recordings created during their 2004 residency. The first half pays tribute to Ornette Coleman and John Coletrane; the last half features original compositions.

Quick Links:

• Joshua
• Redman's Site
• NPR Piece - SF Jazz Collective

THE MEMPHIS HANG

THE MEMPHIS HANG

December 31, 1969

MEMPHIS HANG The Memphis Hang is the perfect disc for a laid back Sunday afternoon with a cold beverage on the front porch. This effort from friends Jim Shearer on Tuba & Charlie Wood on Keys and vocals will make you leave all your cares behind. This disc will transport its listeners back to the care free days of the 1940’s. Most Tracks are covers including Thelonious Monk’s “Well You Needn’t” Charlie Mingus classic “Goodbye Porkpie Hat” and the playful “Not When I’m Drinkin” originally preformed by blues man Big Bill Broozey. Jim & Charlie probably sum up this disc when they say; “This CD represents what happens when music lovers and friends get together with no preconceived notions. Our only plan was to hang out, have fun and create music unconstrained by the demands of the commercial music industry.” Thus, The Memphis Hang was born. How very fortunate we are. Reviewed By: Gregg Saur

Quick Links:

• Amazon
• Summit Records

Spencer A. Barefield

After The End

December 31, 1969

BLUE NEBULA

Relative Dimensions

December 31, 1969

(LOCAL) A superb listen, I can live with this CD. Several tracks blend traditional instruments into the groove mix. Patrick Foley adds some violin tracks on track 3&7. There is also very cool and eerie flailing banjo arrangement on track #4. Blue Nebula provides a unique sound to amuse jazz lovers and others. –T Dog

Quick Links:

• Blue Nebula Home
• Blue Nebula-myspace

James Taylor Quartet

New World

December 31, 1969

While James Taylor may be considered a master of the Hammond, he says he was inspired to make this piano-based album by the baby grand piano that he was storing for a friend. There is, however, plenty of Hammond, clavinet, and Fender Rhodes here to go around. While this band may be tight with their studio recordings, I think this leans more toward smooth jazz than on their more upbeat and interesting live releases. (Check out the albums "Live at the Jazz Cafe" or "Whole Lotta Live".) There is still some mildly interesting stuff here such as the opening track which features Gareth Lockrane on flute. The best track most definitely is "Hotwire" with its quick horn bursts and high-hat taps. - Rebecca Ruth.