Every week our staff of CD Reviewers bring you the best in Independent CD releases. Making a Scene is considered the number 1 resource for the independent musician and the fans that love them.
Connor Bernhard’s album “Pathways” features original compositions showcasing his trumpet skills alongside talented musicians. Notable tracks include the crowd-pleasing “Jackalope,” the challenging “Altitude,” and the tribute “Claudio.” The arrangements blend jazz styles, featuring pieces like “Dat Dere” and “Wichita Lineman.” The review highlights the importance of clear credits on the album cover.
Michel Petrucciani, a talented pianist who overcame physical challenges, recorded a remarkable live album with his trio at the Kuumbwa Jazz Center in 1987. The double disc features his innovative compositions alongside jazz standards, highlighting his distinctive style. Petrucciani’s legacy endures through his music and the memories shared by his family and colleagues.
Mark Adams leads a collaboration of fifteen talented musicians in the album “This is Neo-Soul,” showcasing rich jazz and funk influences. While tracks like “Sweet Tears” and “Don’t Stop (the feeling)” groove strongly, the album lacks a standout soloist to unify its dynamic compositions. It’s an homage to the 1970s sound reminiscent of iconic artists.
Benjie Porecki’s album “Faster Than We Know” features eight original compositions and a cover of “Superstar.” Blending contemporary funk jazz, Porecki showcases his versatility on piano, organ, and keyboards alongside Cory Baker and Mark Prince. The collection is characterized by melodic richness and dynamic arrangements, appealing to diverse musical tastes.
Mark Tonelli’s album “Brasileira” showcases his original compositions influenced by Brazilian culture, developed during his time teaching and performing in Brazil. However, the collaboration with musicians often feels disjointed, as their improvisations clash with Tonelli’s guitar melodies. The review highlights moments of disconnect, leaving the listener puzzled about the artistic cohesion.
Amani Burnham, a talented young musician adopted from Ethiopia, showcases his blues-rock prowess with his debut album “Roots & Wings,” set for release on May 29, 2026. His viral Instagram performance highlights his exceptional guitar skills, influenced by blues legends. The album features introspective lyrics and a blend of groovy rhythms and soulful vocals.
The Robert Jospé Quartet’s album “The Night Sky” showcases their vibrant blend of Latin rhythms and melodic beauty. Featuring talented musicians, including Jospé on drums, Daniel Clarke on piano, and Chris Whiteman on guitar, each track highlights their musicianship and energy. The album culminates in a captivating finale with a solo by Jospé.
Elemental Records has released “Feeling Alright: The Complete 1975 Nancy Pulsations Concert,” showcasing Freddie King’s electric performance in France. Featuring sixteen blues tracks, the album captures King’s vibrant energy and the dynamic chemistry with his band. It celebrates his legacy through live recordings and includes a pictorial biography and insights from notable figures.
Aaron Irwin’s “Spark,” featuring the Aaron Irwin Trio, showcases a blend of Americana, folk, and jazz through original compositions. With Irwin on saxophone and bass clarinet, supported by guitarist Mike Baggetta and drummer Bill Campbell, the album emphasizes improvisation and lyrical melodies, highlighting their long-standing camaraderie and musical chemistry.
Tierney Sutton collaborates with pianist Tamir Hendelman on her 17th album, a duo project celebrating the theme of spring. Their chemistry shines through in interpretations of classic jazz tunes, showcasing Sutton’s vocal storytelling and Hendelman’s creative piano. The album blends emotion and mastery, creating a soothing musical experience.
“Oná,” a Canadian chamber-jazz ensemble formed in 2024, presents a blend of Brazilian and classical influences. Their album “Sem Vocé” features unique instrument combinations but lacks the vibrant energy typical of Brazilian music. Highlight tracks include tributes and smooth harmonies, yet they fall short of conveying the joy associated with Brazilian traditions.
David Basse’s album “The War Within,” recorded live at Kulak’s Woodshed, features a dynamic jazz trio and showcases Basse’s talents as a drummer, vocalist, and composer. The album includes original compositions and humorous, storytelling lyrics, highlighting Basse’s experience in the Kansas City music scene and his tribute to jazz traditions.
Ben Musser’s solo debut, “Sentimental Fever,” marks a significant milestone after two decades in music. As a one-man band, Musser wrote all eleven tracks and played multiple instruments, showcasing his artistic evolution. The album blends personal themes with Americana influences, reflecting confidence and authenticity, making it a compelling and heartfelt work.
Daphne Roubini leads Black Gardenia, a popular Vancouver jazz ensemble noted for blending vintage and contemporary sounds. Their music, characterized by Roubini’s captivating voice and unique arrangements, showcases both original compositions and classic covers. Their debut release on Cellar Live Records features a nostalgic yet modern approach to jazz, exemplifying their distinct style.
Entre Amigos releases their third album, “Joyful Foundation: The Music of Justin Copeland,” featuring compositions by trumpeter Justin Copeland and ensemble members. The blend of styles showcases advanced harmonics and rhythmic variety. Copeland’s impressive background enhances the group’s vibrant sound, marking a notable progression in their musical journey.
Gafieira Rio Miami is an eleven-piece group that revives vibrant Brazilian music from the 1940s to 1960s, blending jazz with samba and other styles. They feature notable Brazilian artists and a diverse range of rhythms, captivating listeners with energetic performances that encourage dance and joy. The album includes various guest musicians and innovative tracks.
Dave Vargo’s fourth album, “Ghost Towns,” showcases his roots rock style, blending Americana with catchy melodies. Notable tracks include the reflective “Anything at All” and the hopeful “New Life.” While Vargo excels with inventive guitar work and storytelling, he sometimes falls into overly poppy territory, maintaining an engaging yet complex outlook on life’s challenges.
Dave Schumacher’s album “Agua Con Gas,” performed by his Afro-Latin Jazz Septet, showcases his long-standing love for jazz and Afro-Cuban music. With original compositions and engaging arrangements, the album features incredible musicianship, especially from Schumacher’s baritone saxophone. It celebrates rich rhythms and vibrant energy, highlighting the joy of the genre.
Bassist Harvie S. celebrates his 21st album as a band leader with “Bright Dawn,” featuring original compositions and notable covers. Accompanied by Peter Bernstein, Miki Hayama, and Matt Wilson, the album blends melodic jazz with elements of bebop. Pieces like “Ghosts of Havana” and “Waltz for Vartan” showcase Harvie’s mastery and creativity.
Dave Adewumi, an emerging jazz trumpeter, showcases his talents on his debut album “The Flame Beneath the Silence.” A graduate of esteemed conservatories, he has received numerous accolades, including the Young Jazz Composer Award and the NYSCA/NYFA Artist Fellowship. The album consists of ten original compositions that highlight his unique style and creativity.
April Varner pays homage to Ella Fitzgerald in her album “Ella,” featuring both a small combo and big band. Despite her nine years of jazz experience, Varner brings an instinctive swing and impressive vocal range, collaborating with notable arrangers like Emmet Cohen and Brian Lynch. The album showcases classic pieces while asserting Varner’s own artistry.
Selwyn Birchwood, an acclaimed blues artist, releases his album “Electric Swamp Funkin’ Blues” in 2026. The album features ten original songs blending traditional blues with contemporary themes. Birchwood’s unique sound and lyrical depth explore topics like resilience, family life, and digital culture, showcasing his growth as an artist since his debut.
Mark Christian Miller’s fourth album, “Strange Meadowlark,” showcases his smooth tenor voice and unique artistry alongside top Los Angeles jazz musicians. The album features refreshing interpretations of classic tunes, including an Oscar Brown Jr. original and sensitive medleys with Josh Nelson. Miller’s careful repertoire selection and storytelling elevate his distinctive style.
Squirrel Nut Zippers, formed in 1993, is an American swing and jazz band known for blending vintage American musical styles. Their latest album, “Fat City,” features 23 tracks inspired by Jimbo Mathus’s grandfather and the cultural history of New Orleans. The band experienced significant success during the 1990s swing revival.
Isabella Isherwood’s debut album, “The Sweetest Sounds,” showcases her vocal and piano talents while exploring the American Songbook. At twenty-three, she displays versatility, though her style lacks distinctiveness compared to jazz legends. Highlights include intimate duets and a strong performance of “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right.” Promising potential is evident.
Brian Landrus’s album “Just When You Think You Know” showcases his versatility as a composer and musician, expanding beyond his signature low-end instruments. The collection features diverse styles, from fusion to chamber music, with emotional themes reflecting past struggles. Landrus delivers captivating performances alongside a talented ensemble, redefining previous expectations.
Tedeschi Trucks Band’s “Future Soul,” their sixth studio album, blends rhythm and blues, soul, and rock, featuring vibrant tracks that highlight the duo’s musicianship. Produced by Mike Elizondo, the album fuses modern techniques with classic influences. With catchy melodies and an engaging sound, it showcases their commitment to authentic music amidst an AI invasion.
The Alexis P. Suter Band, featuring Garth Hudson, showcases their live album “Just Stay Live,” which captures powerful performances with Suter’s commanding vocals and Hudson’s expressive piano. The album includes diverse tracks like “John the Revelator” and “Isn’t It a Pity,” reflecting emotional depth and a blend of gospel and blues influences.
Clint “CD” Woodbury leads the CD Woodbury Trio in their latest album, “Bulldog,” showcasing a blend of blues, rock, and roots influences. The trio includes veteran musicians, delivering vibrant originals and inventive covers. Woodbury’s technical prowess and craft in songwriting are highlighted throughout, making it a fresh addition to the Pacific Northwest blues scene.
Bob Corritore, a key figure in the Southwest blues scene, showcases his harmonica skills in “Ernestine Blues,” a collaborative album featuring diverse tracks that highlight traditional blues. With contributions from various artists, the album exemplifies a rich blend of Chicago blues, rhythm and blues, and soul blues, celebrating the genre’s heritage.
Steve Kovalcheck’s “Buckshot Blues,” featuring drummer Jeff Hamilton and bassist Jon Hamar, showcases original compositions and tribute tunes reflecting his musical influences. Kovalcheck’s modern jazz sound integrates blues and rock, influenced by his Nashville roots. Their playful and spontaneous collaboration highlights Kovalcheck’s guitar mastery and improvisational storytelling throughout the album.
Peter Furlan’s album, recorded live at Maureen’s Jazz Cellar, showcases his original compositions performed by a talented ensemble of East Coast musicians. Highlighting unique arrangements, such as “Return to the Be-Bop Tango” and “The Ice Committee,” the album blends jazz with other influences, featuring impressive solos and vibrant rhythms, captivating listeners throughout.
Asher Brinson, a 16-year-old guitarist and singer-songwriter from North Carolina, captures timeless musical inspirations in his debut album, Midnight Hurricane. After a transformative concert experience, he mastered bluegrass with the guidance of renowned mentors. His album features eight vocal tracks and three instrumentals, showcasing a blend of talent that promises a bright future in bluegrass.
Joshua Achiron’s debut album “Climbing” features original compositions that reflect his personal mantras and wisdom. The tracks, including “Troubles Become Triumphs,” showcase Achiron’s guitar skills alongside talented musicians. The album blends positivity and inspiration with jazzy arrangements, culminating in a notable cover of Duke Ellington’s “Take the Coltrane.”
Lilly Hertzman’s sixth album, “Heartshaped,” features a New York City trio of Aaron Parks, Thomas Morgan, and Jongkuk Kim. This collection of original jazzy songs showcases Hertzman’s sweet vocals and skilled songwriting, reminiscent of 1960s jazz. The album highlights improvised interactions within the group, blending creativity and excellence, set to release on April 17, 2026.
“Flying High” features talented jazz vocalists and musicians celebrating the legacy of female big band singers. The album, executive produced by Susan Waldowski, showcases Bria Skonberg, Carmen Bradford, and others performing classic tracks. With impressive arrangements and solos, it honors both past and present female jazz artistry, culminating in Nicole Zuraitis’s emotional finale.
Joshua Josué is a bilingual singer-songwriter blending Latin soul, R&B, and pop. His latest album creatively completes unfinished songs by rock legends Ritchie Valens and Buddy Holly, balancing authenticity with inventive arrangements. This project honors Chicano rock heritage while showcasing Joshua’s unique voice, making it a conversation across generations.
Chenxi Pan’s album “This Very Moment” showcases her as a skilled vocalist and composer, blending modern jazz with intricate emotional narratives. With a talented ensemble, Pan’s thoughtful songwriting and vocal precision create poignant melodies like “If Only for a Moment.” Her artistry and unique approach make her an artist to watch.
Alfie Jackson Sextet’s album “The Peacocks,” featuring young vocalist Alfie Jackson, showcases her interpretations of classic jazz standards. Her soprano voice and modern style bring fresh energy to songs like “500 Miles High” and “Nature Boy.” Based in New York, Jackson’s talent shines through challenging compositions while highlighting her growth as a jazz artist.
Erica von Kleist’s album “Picc Pocket” showcases the piccolo’s unique role in jazz, featuring her original compositions. An established musician and educator, von Kleist aims to highlight the instrument’s strengths, crafting melodies that blend humor and creativity. This release marks a significant contribution to the jazz genre, redefining the piccolo’s presence.
The Pontchartrain Shakers, a Louisiana blues band formed in 2018, fuse original compositions with classic blues, deeply rooted in local culture. Their debut album, “Love, Peace & Chicken Grease,” showcases warm, family-centered performances, expressing their commitment to keeping blues alive. The album blends originals and covers, highlighting their energetic live spirit.
Jill Scott’s album “To Whom This May Concern” blends poetry, rap, R&B, and jazz, showcasing her creativity and affirming themes of strength and positivity. While some lyrics contain controversial content, overall, the album stimulates thought and uplifts listeners, marking her first full-length release in ten years.
Karen and Norbert Stachel, renowned jazz musicians, lead the group LEHCATS featuring Giovanni Hidalgo. Their latest double album blends contemporary jazz with Latin and funk influences, showcasing original compositions from both Stachels. The dynamic arrangements highlight Hidalgo’s exceptional percussion, promising listeners an energetic and soulful experience throughout the tracks.
Aubrey Johnson’s album “The Lively Air” showcases her vocal talent and unique compositions, blending jazz with influences from artists like Joni Mitchell. Featuring musicians like Tomoko Omura and Chris McCarthy, the album highlights Johnson’s soprano voice, intricate arrangements, and improvisational skills, solidifying her reputation in diverse musical genres.
The Interplay Jazz Orchestra’s album “Bite Your Tongue,” led by Joey Devassy and Gary Henderson, showcases diverse compositions by its members. Highlighting solo opportunities, the album features arrangements of classic tunes and original works, blending traditional jazz with modern flair. The orchestra’s talent and creativity shine throughout the production.
CHRIS MADSEN, DANA HALL, CLARK SOMMERS THREEFOLD Calligram Records Chris Madsen, tenor & soprano saxophones; Clark Sommers, acoustic bass; Dana Hall, drums & cymbals. Clark Sommers strongly pumps his acoustic bass beneath the opening song composed by Chris Madsen. Madsen’s soprano saxophone rings pure and emotionally present above the rhythm of bass and drums. The […]
Brian Lynch Quintet featuring Charles McPherson Torch Bearers Hollistic Music Works Bebop lives!! Torch Bearers, from fiery trumpeter Brian Lynch and living legend, alto saxophonist, 86-year-old Charles McPherson, carries on the form’s legacy. This is a luminous session that features vocalist Samara Joy on two tracks, along with the bass-drum tandem of Boris Kozlov and […]
Laura Chavez, an acclaimed American blues guitarist and songwriter, blends Texas and Chicago blues in her debut instrumental album, “My Voice.” Released in 2025, it features original compositions and covers. Recognized with multiple Blues Music Awards, Chavez emphasizes expressive guitar work, showcasing her journey from collaborator to solo artist.
Guitarist and vocalist John Pizarelli pays tribute to Tony Bennett in “Dear Mr. Bennett,” a jazz-infused celebration featuring favorite songs that honors Bennett’s legacy. Pizarelli showcases his unique style while maintaining the spirit of Bennett’s music, highlighted by his impressive guitar work and heartfelt vocal performances, culminating in a rich homage.
William Clark Green, a 39-year-old country singer from Texas, has launched his seventh studio album, “Watterson Hall.” With six previous albums and a vibrant musical career, he celebrates Texas culture while advocating for local agriculture. Green’s music blends nostalgia and authenticity, positioning him as a key figure in Texas country music.