CD Reviews on projects by Jazz artists
Erik Friedlander’s two-CD set, featuring “Dirty Boxing” and “Floating City,” blends jazz with unique instrumentation and dynamic energy. “Dirty Boxing” draws inspiration from Friedlander’s fascination with mixed martial arts, while “Floating City” offers a tranquil, chamber music-like experience. This collection showcases Friedlander’s versatility as a cellist and composer. Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil.
Philip Weberndoerfer’s album “Tides,” released by Shifting Paradigm Records, showcases his journey from Bavaria to New York City, inspired by a transformative encounter with guitarist Pat Martino. Featuring original compositions and performances by Dayna Stephens, Richard Mikel, and Peter Traunmueller, the album blends intricate melodies, improvisation, and blues influences.
Livio Almeida’s “Brasilia Sessions” album exudes vibrant energy, starting with crowd noises and joyful voices. Featuring impressive solos and compositions like “Sambasus,” “Partido Cerrado,” and “Brasilia Afro Samba,” the album blends samba and Afro-Samba beats. Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil, the album showcases Almeida’s tenor saxophone skill, composition prowess, and band synergy.
The album “HAMILTON DE HOLANDA & GONZALO RUBALCABA: COLLAB” by Sony Music/Brazil features Afro-Cuban pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba and Brazilian mandolinist Hamilton de Holanda, along with other artists. Highlighting original compositions and renowned works, the album showcases their exceptional jazz talents, masterful improvisations, and creative synergy, earning high praise for its brilliance and historic significance.
“Human Geography” by Michael Eckroth Group showcases compositions blending Latin rhythms, jazz, and African roots. Featuring vibrant percussion, improvisational piano, and energetic horns, the album highlights Eckroth’s unique style developed over a decade. The title signifies the cultural and geographical influences in the music, resulting in a refreshing fusion.
Enrico Granafei’s album “It’s Hard to Say Goodbye” showcases his multi-instrumental talent and compositions alongside contributions from renowned musicians. The album blends various genres, highlighting Granafei’s mastery of the chromatic harmonica and guitar. It features tributes to his mentor Toots Thielemans and compositions from fellow musicians, emphasizing Granafei’s innovative artistry.
IZE TRIO’s debut album, The Global Suites, blends jazz and Middle Eastern music by Chase Morrin, Naseem Alatrash, and George Lernis. Created during the COVID-19 pandemic, the album features four suites addressing social issues. Musically diverse and socially conscious, it offers unique, multicultural soundscapes and thought-provoking compositions. Special guests include John Patitucci and Farayi Malek.
Dr. Zachary Bartholomew, a renowned jazz pianist and professor at Florida Memorial University, debuts his album “Balancing Act” featuring original compositions. Accompanied by top musicians, Bartholomew blends multiple jazz genres. Tracks like “Crazy Socks” and “Hobo’s Lullaby” highlight his compositional and arranging talent, balancing varied rhythms and energies. Release date: August 2, 2024.
Jonathan Barber’s ensemble, Vision Ahead, presents their fourth studio album “In Motion,” featuring eight original compositions and two reprises. Recognized by Modern Drummer Magazine, Barber demonstrates a warm interplay of rhythm and melody. The album blends contemporary and modern jazz, showcasing Barber’s unique, complex style, distinct compositions, and instrumental harmony.
Geoffrey Keezer’s “Live at Birdland” marks his first live recording in over fifteen years, featuring John Patitucci and Clarence Penn. This album blends Keezer’s originals with compositions by his heroes, Chick Corea and Wayne Shorter. The trio’s performance highlights technical mastery and emotional depth, garnering enthusiastic audience applause.
Natalie Jacob’s album “Sooner or Later” features her vocal prowess on ten jazz standards, highlighting her versatility and ability to improvise while staying true to original compositions. Accompanied by seasoned musicians, she demonstrates command in various styles and languages, offering renditions filled with energy and emotion. Available August 2, 2024.
Alex LoRe’s album “Motivity” features a chordless trio with Thomas Morgan on bass and Johnathan Blake on drums. Influenced by Lee Konitz, LoRe’s compositions are both innovative and nostalgic. The album includes interpretations of classics and original pieces, showcasing the trio’s technical prowess and cohesive sound. Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil.
Omer Leshem’s album “PLAY SPACE,” featuring ten original compositions, showcases his cultural background and diverse influences, from Middle Eastern to European harmonies. The album, recorded with talented Israeli jazz musicians in Woodstock, New York, includes standout tracks like “Twilight Hymn,” “Take an Advil,” and “Cape Town Swag.” The music demonstrates great versatility, emotional depth, and vibrant performances. Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil.
Andy James’ album “Let Me See Your Heart,” released by LeCoq Records, features a stellar ensemble of musicians and includes fresh takes on classics like “Take Five” and “Bali Ha’i.” James’ rendition of “New York State of Mind” is unique, while original compositions show mixed lyrical quality. The album debuts on August 9, 2024.
Jason Robinson’s album “Ancestral Numbers 1” explores his family history through music, blending jazz, experimental, and popular genres. Featuring musicians like Joshua White and Drew Gress, the album includes tracks like “Second House” and “Malachi,” illustrating Robinson’s lineage. The release promises two volumes, reflecting his genealogy in 2024.
Bill Banfield’s new album “Take Time to Listen” is a solo guitar tribute inspired by his father’s advice and dedicated to his mentors, Kenny Burrell and Earl Klugh. Notable for his symphonic and operatic compositions, Banfield’s new work showcases his skillful interpretations of classic jazz, pop, and R&B pieces.
Nation Beat, led by master percussionist Scott Kettner and saxophonist Paul Carlon, crafts a unique music blend without traditional rhythm sections, using only drums and horns. Their album features influences from Brazilian and American Southern cultures, with a diverse range of compositions and guest artists. The result is an engaging and joyful listening experience.
Bruno Raberg’s new album “Evolver” by the Bruno Raberg Tentet features an ensemble blending smooth jazz with elements from Greek mythology and traditional Indian music. Each track showcases the talents of various musicians, including special guests Kris Davis and Walter Smith III. Raberg’s compositions draw on his diverse influences and rich musical experiences.
Elias Haslanger and Mike Sailors, long-time friends and jazz musicians, collaborate on an album blending bebop and blues influences. Recorded at Estuary Recording Studio in Austin, Texas, the album features original compositions and a Clifford Jordon cover. The release, praised for its energetic and soulful performances, is set for August 16, 2024.
Melinda Rose and Frenchy Romero showcase their decade-long musical partnership in their debut album “I’m On My Way.” The album features Rose’s emotive vocals and Romero’s brilliant piano techniques across various genres and includes original compositions. Their synergy, complemented by other talented musicians, delivers an engaging and memorable listening experience.
Natsuki Tamura and Jim Black’s album “NATJIM” on Libra Records is a reunion of two master musicians after 25 years, offering freewheeling, experimental music. Their improvised pieces like “Morning City” and “City of Night” explore varied themes and emotions, akin to a dynamic dialogue between trumpet and drums.
Veronica Thomas’s sophomore album, “They Say It’s Wonderful,” showcases her transition from her debut name, Nica Carrington, to her birth name. Recorded in Los Angeles with top jazz musicians, the album features twelve tracks, including standards like “Get Out of Town” and “Dindi.” John Proulx directed and accompanied her once again.
Eyal Vilner’s album “Swingin’ Uptown” vividly revives the big band music era of the 1920s to 1940s, blending six original compositions with timeless classics. Vilner, inspired by jazz dance and history, leads his ensemble with familial warmth, complemented by Imani Rousselle’s soulful vocals on tracks like “Tell Me Pretty Baby.”
Ron Rieder showcases his debut Latin Jazz album, featuring ten Afro-Cuban inspired compositions. Collaborating with skilled musicians, Rieder’s melodies are both memorable and dance-inducing. Key tracks include “Un Coco Loco,” “The Samba Moon,” and “St. John,” each highlighting various instrumental solos. The album exudes joy, rhythm, and liveliness, ensuring listener enjoyment.
Rob Parton’s Ensemble 9+ album “Relentless” features powerful, energetic performances with standout solos from a talented lineup of musicians. Highlights include a Latin spin on Freddie Hubbard’s “Straight Life,” and original compositions by Parton. The album, showcasing a mix of genres, reflects Parton’s rich musical heritage and current mentorship at UNT.
Jake Leckie’s third album, “Planter of Seeds,” showcases his compositions, featuring a quintet including guitar, piano, drums, tenor saxophone, and trombone. Melancholy and bright tunes highlight Goodfellow’s drums and Peled’s guitar prowess. The album explores themes of planting seeds for future beauty, with standout tracks like “Big Sur Jade” and “Clear Skies.”
Lakecia Benjamin’s live album “Phoenix Reimagined” captures the energy of her Brooklyn concert at “The Bunker.” Featuring compositions from her Grammy-nominated “Phoenix” album and new songs, it blends jazz with hip-hop and spoken word. Inspired by John Coltrane, Benjamin’s performance and her all-star ensemble promote peace, unity, and love through their music.
Kiki Valera’s “Vacilón Santiaguero” is a vibrant album featuring an array of talented musicians and joyous, dance-inducing tracks. With strong vocals and spirited rhythms, the music celebrates Cuban culture. Valera, a veteran of La Familia Valera Miranda, delivers an album that transcends language barriers, exuding energy and joy, reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil.
Hyeseon Hong Jazz Orchestra’s album “Things Will Pass” is masterfully composed, showcasing a unique synthesis of Korean culture with American jazz. Each track, from “Road to Hana” to “We Will Meet Again,” features captivating solos and melodies, reflecting Hong’s innovative arrangements and the orchestra’s exceptional talent. Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil.
Andromeda Turre’s album “From the Earth” merges spoken word with diverse musical elements, highlighting environmental activism and global unity. The tracks, enriched by master musicians, reflect her personal and profound connection with nature, inspired by a transformative trip to Iceland. This album intertwines impactful messages and innovative compositions, seeking connectivity and togetherness.
Milton Suggs’ new album “Pure Intention” is a stripped-down jazz project featuring just Suggs and pianist Michael King. The album, rooted in blues, soul, and jazz, is Suggs’ first since 2016. His powerful baritone and dynamic range shine through original compositions and reinterpretations of classics, making this a standout vocal album.
MONIKA HERZIG’S SHEROES: ALL IN GOOD TIME album features all-women band members, led by pianist and composer Monika Herzig. The album pays homage to Chick Corea and explores various compositions, including jazz and an arrangement of Beyoncé’s “(Girls) Run the World.” It highlights Herzig’s piano skills but suggests need for better arrangements.
Sharon Isbin and Amjad Ali Khan’s album “LIVE IN ASPEN” showcases a fusion of Flamenco guitar and Indian classical music. Isbin’s solo pieces celebrate Francisco Tarrega, while collaborative tracks with sarod players capture cultural and spiritual themes like “Sacred Evening” and “Romancing Earth.” This unique blend enchants with emotional and contemplative improvisations.
The Christopher Zuar Orchestra’s album “Exuberance” features compositions by Zuar and showcases a remarkable ensemble of musicians. Highlights include Drew Gress’s inspired bass solo in “In Winter Blooms” and Glenn Zaleski’s piano brilliance in “Communion.” The album reflects Zuar’s personal growth and emotional journey, enhanced by Anne Beal’s artistic contributions.
Nancy and Spencer Reed’s album “Happying” features their unique jazz vocal duo. Embracing bebop roots, they blend harmonies brilliantly, covering classics from “Cheerful Little Earful” to “Whisper Not”, and even adding a jazzy twist to Chicago’s “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?”. Their musical chemistry and talented band create a refreshing, nostalgic experience.
Gregory Goodloe, a Denver-based smooth jazz guitarist, collaborates with producer Michael Broening on his new single “Groovin’ On,” the first release from an upcoming album. Known for his Billboard No. 1 hit “Stylin’,” Goodloe aims to blend a pleasant sound with an infectious groove, accompanied by notable musicians.
Jesus Molina, a 27-year-old multi-instrumentalist and Latin Grammy Cultural Function Award winner, released an album titled “Selah,” meaning “Praise.” Inspired by piano legends, Molina showcases his unique style and composition skills across various instruments. His spiritual, dynamic music captivates listeners, with notable contributions from prominent musicians. Billy Childs praises Molina’s virtuosity.
Karen Mack’s album “Catch & Keep” features jazz standards and original songs, intended initially as a gift for her mother-in-law. The project evolved into a full album showcasing Mack’s versatile vocals. The album includes contributions from renowned musicians and highlights Mack’s ability to swing, evoke nostalgia, and blend genres.
Michael Pagán’s album “Paganova” showcases his quintet’s dexterous creativity through tracks like “Burn it Forward” and “Guess Who’s Blues.” The ensemble, featuring saxophones, bass, and drums, delivers energetic solos and harmonies. Louie Pagán, Michael’s son, contributes significantly. The album’s diverse and warm compositions offer a comforting musical embrace.
Janel Leppin and Anthony Pirog’s “New Moon in the Evil Age” consists of two albums: an instrumental and a vocal one. Their work blends cello, guitar, and various instruments, delivering both ambient and dramatic pieces. Leppin’s Ensemble Volcanic Ash offers a political, intense set performed by a sextet. All three albums showcase extraordinary versatility and musical talent.
Frank London’s album “Spirit Stronger Than Blood,” released by ESP-Disk, honors friends lost to blood diseases and cancer. Featuring The Elders, the album blends spiritual jazz with post-bop, inspired by notable jazz figures and personal experiences. Highlights include dedications to Lester Bowie, Jewlia Eisenberg, and Ron Miles, showcasing emotional depth and musical intensity.
Steve Turre’s first live album, “Sanyas,” recorded at Smoke Jazz Club, showcases his talents on trombone and shells. Featuring an elite sextet, the album includes two Turre compositions, a piece by Lee Morgan, and two standards. Highlights include Turre’s remarkable shell performances and strong contributions from Nicholas Payton, Ron Blake, and Isaiah J. Thompson.
Ray Brown’s Great Big Band celebrates 27 years with the album “I Could Write A Book” on Summit Records. Featuring Ray Brown and a talented ensemble, the two-disc set includes 21 big band jazz tracks, mixing classics like “Spring is Here” with Christmas songs. Ray Brown, a multi-talented bandleader, showcases his exceptional arrangements and the band’s versatility.
Erik Friedlander’s “Dirty Boxing” is a jazz album inspired by Mixed Martial Arts, featuring the same quartet from his previous album, A Queen’s Firefly. With tracks like “Shrimping” and “Submission,” it highlights intense improvisation and teamwork. The CD version includes a bonus project, Floating City, with ethereal melodies.
David Bixler, an alto saxophonist and composer, resumed his music career in 2016 after a 12-year hiatus due to his son’s health issues. His discography includes albums like “In the Face of Chaos” and “Inside the Grief.” In 2023, he released “Beatitude.” Bixler is also Director of Jazz Studies at Bowling Green State University and a podcast host.
The album “ALL ABOARD – VOL. 1: DEPARTURES” by Telavana, led by flautist Itai Kriss, blends jazz with Middle Eastern, North African, and Latin influences. Featuring notable artists and special guest Amos Hoffman, the compositions offer vibrant, energetic, and culturally rich music. Reviewer Dee Dee McNeil praises its eclectic fusion and improvisational freedom.
Bruna Black’s compelling vocals and John Finbury’s Brazilian-influenced music come together in the album “Va Revelacco.” After auditioning for “The Voice Brazil,” Black fast-tracked her career, forming the successful duo “Avua.” Introduced by producer Emilio D. Miller, their collaboration features renowned musicians and embodies fresh, provocative Brazilian jazz.
Carl Clements’ album “A Different Light” features nine original jazz compositions, blending saxophones and North Indian bansuri flute. Highlights include Chase Morris’ tension-building piano solo, Bruno Råberg’s growling bass lines, and Gen Yoshimura’s dynamic drumming. The quartet’s youthful and energetic sound showcases their talent and impressive originality. Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil.
Paul Carlon’s sixth album, “Blues for Vita,” features eight tracks, five of which are original compositions. The quintet, including Eddie Allen, Helio Alves, Harvie S., and Willie Martinez, creates a dynamic, blues-influenced jazz experience. Standout tracks include “Dee Dot,” “Colored Paper,” and covers like “Never Never Will I Marry,” showcasing inventive arrangements and energetic performances.
Mike Holober & The Gotham Jazz Orchestra’s double album “This Rock We’re On: Imaginary Letters” showcases Holober’s compositions celebrating America’s landscapes. Opening with “Lay of the Land,” a Chris Potter solo, it features a blend of jazz arrangements. The suite, with standout tracks “On this Rock” and “Dirt Lovers Almanac,” emphasizes melodic beauty and intricate orchestration.
