Andy Baker’s debut for Calligram Records showcases his trombone mastery alongside Chicago jazz veterans Russ Johnson, Clark Sommers, and Dana Hall. Their chord-less quartet format highlights improvisation, particularly in Baker’s interpretations of classic tunes and original compositions. The album pays tribute to Baker’s influences, offering an exploratory jazz experience.
Rich Halley’s latest album, “Dusk & Dawn,” features his quartet with Michael Vlatkovich, Clyde Reed, and Carson Halley. Combining original compositions with spontaneous improvisations, the album showcases their collaborative spirit and musical chemistry. The track “The Return” exemplifies their dynamic interplay, creating an engaging experimental jazz experience.
Jocelyn Gould’s “Portrait of Right Now,” featuring her ensemble, showcases her distinguished style as a contemporary jazz guitarist. This fourth album, a blend of ten tracks—eight originals—exhibits her skill and creativity, drawing influence from jazz legends. Gould’s vibrant performances on guitar elevate her significant presence in modern jazz.
Brian Lynch’s album “7X7by7” features seven musicians and seven original seven-minute tracks, all crafted during the pandemic. This project highlights Lynch’s life experiences and musical journey, showcasing individual talents within the ensemble. Celebrating the significance of the number seven, the album is set for release on October 25, 2024.
Mavis Pan’s album “Rising” blends classical and chamber music with touches of jazz, highlighted by intricate horn and flute solos. Born in Taiwan and trained internationally, Pan offers a varied musical background. While her compositions are classical, the jazz influence is featured in certain tracks, showcasing both complexity and emotional depth.
Naomi Moon Siegel’s album “Shatter the Glass Sanctuary” showcases her skills as a trombonist and composer, blending modern and free jazz with emotional depth. Each track offers unique instrumental arrangements, highlighted by contributions from her talented ensemble. Siegel’s work is influenced by personal experiences, reflecting a journey of emotional and cultural exploration. Her accolades affirm her innovative approach and contributions to jazz.
Teri Parker’s Free Spirits, a Toronto-based jazz group formed in 2019, pays tribute to pianists Mary Lou Williams and Geri Allen. Their album features compositions by Parker and Allen, blending jazz with diverse styles. Notable tracks include “Unconditional Love” and “Survival,” with spoken word elements exploring contemporary themes. The group showcases artistic innovation and historical influences.
Vivian Buczek’s “Le Grand Michel,” due for release on October 25th, honors Michel Legrand’s compositions, showcasing her jazz flair alongside musicians like Mathias Heise and Martin Sjöstedt. Buczek’s emotive vocals shine, especially on tracks like “The Windmills of Your Mind.” The album includes both Legrand classics and an original by Peter Asplund.
Filippo Dall’Asta, an Italian guitarist, merges modern Gypsy Jazz with unique arrangements on “The Hot Club of Tenerife” album. Featuring classic jazz standards and original compositions, the album showcases a blend of rich Romani influences and modern elements. With performances across Europe, Dall’Asta captures joyful rhythms and innovative twists in this vibrant musical collection.
In “Urban Chaos,” Nick Adema, a Canadian trombonist based in Amsterdam, explores themes of life and loss following his mother’s passing. The album features varied compositions with contributions from talented musicians, including string quartets and horns, emphasizing Adema’s trombone prowess and blending jazz with emotional depth and innovation.
Dharma Down Records’ debut album “Owl Dreams” features Duncan Hardy on alto saxophone/Qanun, Mike Effenberger on piano, Scott Kiefner on acoustic bass, and John Mettam on drums. The music blends American jazz with Middle Eastern and Eastern Asian influences, showcasing the diverse backgrounds of the musicians. The album, releasing on October 11, 2024, promises a global appeal with its original compositions.
Delfeayo Marsalis’ “Crescent City Jewels” is a vibrant big band album that celebrates New Orleans’ rich musical heritage. Featuring both veteran musicians and rising stars, the Uptown Jazz Orchestra delivers a joyful collection of songs blending jazz, R&B, and Creole influences. Highlights include Tonya Boyd-Cannon’s “Sleeping Bee” and a fresh take on “Ooh Poo Pah Doo.”
Daniel Pardo’s album “Ese Momento” features twelve boleros, blending classical melodicism, jazz sophistication, and Latin rhythms. Produced with pianist Sergio Pamies and the Czech National Symphony Orchestra, the album showcases Pardo’s versatile flute performance and highlights like “Como Fue,” “Sabor A Mi,” and “Bebo.” It reflects cultural diversity and musical mastery.
Paul Kendall’s “Live at Vic’s Jazz Loft,” featuring a mix of live and studio recordings from early 2023, showcases Kendall’s tenor saxophone alongside Marc Neely, Patrick Poladian, Roy Cumming, Rudy Petschauer, and Dan Kostelnik. Notable tracks highlight both drummer-inclusive and drum-less performances, emphasizing Kendall’s versatility and intensity in different settings.
Frédéric Viale’s eighth album, “Caméléon,” showcases his unique style on the accordion through solo performance. This album blends various genres, emphasizing his jazz influence even in traditional pieces. Viale’s mastery, improvisational skills, and emotional sincerity shine through 19 tracks, including eight original compositions and creative arrangements, making it an unforgettable experience.
Peter Bernstein’s new album “Better Angels,” released under Smoke Sessions Records, features a talented lineup including drummer Al Foster, pianist Brad Mehldau, and bassist Vicente Archer. The album mixes Bernstein’s original compositions with classic standards, showcasing his exceptional guitar skills and the improvisational genius of the quartet. This collaborative project highlights Bernstein’s intent to capture fresh interpretations and dynamic musical interplay.
Gino Amato’s debut album “Latin Crossroads” showcases his talent as a bandleader and arranger, featuring Latin orchestrated versions of familiar songs. Collaborating with Oscar Hernandez, Amato integrates vocals, strings, and horns to deliver vibrant and emotional interpretations. The album displays a wide repertoire reflecting Amato’s diverse musical background and expertise.
The previously unreleased album “Grande-Terre” by Roy Hargrove’s band Crisol will be released on October 18, 2024, commemorating Hargrove’s 55th birthday. This Grammy-winning ensemble’s energetic studio session from 1998 captures their unique blend of jazz, Afro-Cuban rhythms, and funk. The first single, “Priorities,” showcases their dynamic sound.
Rebecca Kilgore’s album “A Little Taste” features her seasoned vocals, paired with lush arrangements and the music of Dave Frishberg. The recording is highlighted by a talented ensemble. Kilgore’s storytelling through song, accentuated by sweeping strings and excellent musicianship, offers a swinging, easy-listening experience. The album releases October 28, 2024.
Dawn Clement, Steve Kovalcheck, and Jon Hamar form a drum-less jazz trio, presenting a nuanced blend of contemporary jazz through intricate interplay between piano, guitar, and bass. Their compositions range from soothing, moderate tempos to rhythmic Latin influences, culminating in a unique, easy-listening jazz style appreciated for its peacefulness and musical depth.
Stephane Wrembel’s “Triptych Phase 1” is part of a trilogy album showcasing three life stages. Wrembel, a master guitarist influenced by classical, rock, gypsy Romani music, and jazz, collaborates with prominent musicians like Jean-Michel Pilc. The album features original compositions and classics, highlighting Wrembel’s exceptional musical versatility and artistry.
T.K. Blue’s latest album, “Planet Bluu” on Jaja Records, features compositions reflecting diverse Afro-diasporic influences. Comprising nine original tracks, it showcases his proficiency on multiple instruments. Highlights include “The Hue of Bluu,” “Valley of the Bluu Rose,” and “Turquoise Bluu.” Blue aims to envision a harmonious, ideal world through his music.
The “Run the Gauntlet” album by Kris Davis, featuring Robert Hurst and Jonathan Blake, is a tribute to six influential female pianists. Davis composed all the music, reflecting her mentors and her son’s growth. Praised for her unique style and creativity, Davis has received numerous awards and continues to innovate in jazz.
David Weiss’ album “Auteur” showcases his talents as a trumpeter, composer, and bandleader. Featuring his compositions and a spirited ensemble, the album highlights Weiss’ mastery and influences from bebop and post-bop eras. Through complex harmonies and dynamic arrangements, Weiss demonstrates his artistic vision and commitment to innovative jazz storytelling.
Sol Jang celebrates a decade of musical growth with her album “19 – 29,” blending classical training with jazz influences from her experiences in South Korea, the U.S., and the Netherlands. The album features Jang on piano, Jort Terwijl on bass, and Max Hering on drums, with notable tracks like “Subway In Seoul” and “Philadelphia.”
Micah Thomas’s album “MOUNTAINS” showcases his compositions from a 2022 residency at The Jazz Gallery, recorded over four live sets. Featuring notable jazz musicians, it aims to create a cathartic experience. Highlights include the dynamic fourteen-minute track “Life,” and pieces like “Processing,” “Libre,” and “No Answer,” which display Thomas’s innovative and boundary-pushing style.
Leslie Pintchik’s album “Prayer For What Remains” features eight original compositions and covers of Joni Mitchell’s “Banquet” and Lennon/McCartney’s “I Will.” Inspired by a poignant war photo, the music is a blend of pensive, blues-infused, and energetic tunes showcasing the talents of her quintet. The album’s vibrant cover depicts their camaraderie.
Jeff Rupert’s “It Gets Better” album showcases his warm tenor saxophone tone and features compositions blending with covers, played by an all-star band. Highlights include “Pharoah’s Daughter,” “Like Someone in Love,” and “Nowhere to Go But Up,” demonstrating skill and creative freedom, resulting in a joyful listening experience.
Anne Sajdera’s album “It’s Here” features her compositions and piano performances with a talented ensemble. Highlights include tracks like “Stella By Starlight,” “Three Color Study,” and “Bounce.” Sajdera’s compositions are well-crafted, blending various musical genres. Reviewer Dee Dee McNeil praises her exceptional piano technique and lyrical sensitivity.
Grover Washington Jr.’s new album, “Grover Live – Vol. 2,” showcases his pioneering fusion of funk and jazz. Featuring timeless tracks like “Nature Boy” and “Mister Magic,” it mirrors the essence of his earlier works. This release offers fans a nostalgic experience while celebrating Washington’s enduring influence on smooth jazz. Available September 13, 2024.
Danny Jonokuchi’s “A Decade” showcases his prowess as a bandleader, arranger, vocalist, and trumpeter. Featuring a stellar big band, the album includes dynamic arrangements of jazz standards and original compositions. Highlights include Jonokuchi’s smooth vocals on “This Can’t Be Love” and innovative takes on classics like “Voyage” and “On Green Dolphin Street.”
The Joel Frahm Trio’s album “Lumination,” released by Anzic Records, features Frahm on tenor saxophone, Dan Loomis on bass, and Ernesto Cervini on drums. Highlight tracks include “The Nurse is in,” “Loomie Nation,” and “Moonface Lament.” The trio showcases impressive jazz musicianship, blending melodies, rhythms, and improvisations seamlessly.
Gunhild Carling, known as the Swedish Queen of Jazz, leads a 13-piece big band featuring the Prague Strings Chamber Orchestra. Renowned for her multi-instrumental talents and engaging stage presence, Carling’s album “Jazz is My Lifestyle” showcases eleven of her original compositions. The project includes contributions from her family and special guest musicians.
John Fedchock’s album “Justifiably J.J.” celebrates J.J. Johnson’s centennial with masterful trombone performances and original Johnson arrangements. Fedchock’s quartet delivers energetic, live renditions of Johnson’s compositions, spotlighting each musician’s talent. This eleventh album by Fedchock showcases his phenomenal technique and warm tone, paying tribute to Johnson’s legacy in jazz.
Bryn Roberts’ debut album “Aloft” showcases the pianist’s evolution from jazz sideman to bandleader and composer. The album features Roberts on piano, Matt Penman on bass, and Quincy Davis on drums. Each track highlights the trio’s dynamic interplay, Roberts’ creative compositions, and their collective improvisational skills, establishing Roberts as a thoughtful and engaging musician.
Anders Malta, a Danish trumpeter and composer, leads the Anders Malta Almost Big Band, performing monthly at Christiania Jazz Club in Copenhagen. Their debut album features nine tracks, blending various jazz styles and showcasing Malta’s compositions and arrangements. Highlights include the “Hardbop Conversations” series and “Pelle’s Little Tune.”
Tom Johnson’s album “Time Takes Odd Turns” showcases his compositions reflecting different stages of his life. It features a jazz orchestra including guitars, piano, reeds, trumpets, and guest musicians. This project, inspired by Johnson’s lifelong dream, was recorded with IU students and Indianapolis jazz musicians and is now available to the public.
The Tobias Hoffmann Jazz Orchestra’s latest project, “Innuendo,” showcases Hoffmann’s compositions performed by diverse musical talents. The album, inspired by Queen, includes award-winning tracks like “Summer Solstice” and “No Way Back.” Hoffmann’s unique approach to mixed meter and arrangements highlight his musical creativity, leading to a highly anticipated release on September 20, 2024.
Mauricio Morales’ album “Seven Days” captures a week of his life through seven original tracks, each named after a day. Composed during a visa issue in Mexico, it highlights his bass skills, jazz fusion influences, and melodic roots. The album features impressive solos, diverse compositions, and Morales’ continual artistic growth.
The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra’s album, “Live at the Village Vanguard – Centennial: The Music of Thad Jones,” celebrates the 100th birthday of Thad Jones. This double CD features modernized big band sounds influenced by jazz legends such as Count Basie and Duke Ellington. Each disc showcases exceptional musicianship with unique arrangements, honoring Jones’s legacy.
Jimbo Ross’s album “Jazz Passion & Satin Latin” showcases his prowess on the 5-string viola, traditionally a background instrument in jazz. Leading a talented quintet, Ross brings distinctive improvisation to classics like “Delilah” and “Polka Dots & Moonbeams.” His “Bodacious Band” further explores diverse genres, emphasizing his musical virtuosity.
“Patricia Brennan’s album ‘Breaking Stretch’ blends contemporary classical with funk, salsa, and experimental jazz, reflecting her push to musical boundaries. Utilizing electronics, Brennan crafts compositions that challenge rhythmic structures. The ensemble includes notable jazz musicians, with Brennan’s vibraphone and marimba driving the experimental essence, delivering an avant-garde experience.”
Colin Fisher’s “Suns of the Heart” is an experimental jazz album where he plays all instruments, composed in collaboration with producer David Psutka. Celebrated as a versatile multi-instrumentalist from Toronto, Fisher weaves a meditative, boundary-less soundscape, blending percussion, synthesizers, and guitars to create a dynamic, ethereal musical experience.
Javon Jackson and Nikki Giovanni’s album “Javon & Nikki Go to the Movies” features a blend of Jackson’s tenor saxophone with Giovanni’s poetry. The album showcases the talents of Jackson’s band on tracks like “When the Time is Right” and “Speak Low.” Giovanni’s poetry and Jackson’s compositions create a rich, artistic synergy.
David Bailis’s EP “Tree of Life” showcases his compositions with a talented quartet featuring Chris Speed, Eric Lane, and Jason Nazary. The album blends various musical styles, including smooth jazz and soft rock. When not making music, Bailis is a decorated marathon runner and triathlete, coaching other athletes.
Chad McCullough’s album “In These Hills, Beyond” was recorded live at North Street Cabaret in Madison, Wisconsin, during the final phase of their tour. This seasoned ensemble, featuring pianist Bram Weijters, guitarist Dave Miller, bassist John Christensen, and drummer Kobie Watkins, showcases strong chemistry and spontaneity, with McCullough’s compositions emphasizing varied moods and tempo changes.
Andrew Wilcox, a Hartford-based pianist and composer, debuts with “Dear Mr. Hill,” an album honoring his mentors and experiences. Featuring original compositions and jazz interpretations like “Stella by Starlight,” Wilcox’s work highlights his creativity and emotional depth. Supported by veterans Avery Sharpe and Yoron Israel, this album showcases a promising talent.
Karen Stachel’s album “A Whim and a Prayer” showcases her flute performances in imaginative jazz arrangements of holiday classics. Notable tracks include “Let It Snow,” “Angels Have You Heard on High,” and “Mary Did You Know?” Featuring contributions from various skilled musicians, this album brings a festive and cozy atmosphere, perfect for winter evenings.
Jonathan Powell’s “Mambo Jazz Party” on Label Circle 9 features energetic, modern Latin jazz with dynamic arrangements by Powell. Tracks like “Juancito,” “Hope,” and “You’re Everything” showcase his prowess in blending percussive intensity, smooth jazz elements, and harmonious vocals. This lively album exemplifies Powell’s talent as an arranger, composer, and trumpeter.
Miguel Zenón’s “Golden City” is a sweeping musical suite representing San Francisco’s demographics and political evolution. Incorporating California history, the album features a brass and rhythm section nonet. Each composition, like “Sacred Land” and “Acts of Exclusion,” showcases intricate solos and cultural themes. The album launches on August 30, 2024.
