CD Reviews on projects by Jazz artists
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.
Raul Midón’s album “Lost & Found” blends jazz, folk, pop, and soft rock, showcasing his multifaceted talent as a composer, singer, guitarist, and multi-instrumentalist. Inspired by Stevie Wonder, Midón’s work includes powerful lyrics and impressive musical arrangements, with standout tracks like “Lost & Found,” “Next Time,” and “Ocean of Doubt.”
Catherine Russell and Sean Mason’s album “My Ideal” on Dot Time Records refreshes historic songs with modern flair. Russell’s persuasive vocals and Mason’s emotive piano create an intimate musical dialogue. The album features a blend of blues, ballads, and classic tunes, showcasing their artistry and bringing vintage music to the contemporary stage.
Neil Adler’s album “Emi’s Song” features original compositions and jazz standards, showcasing his talents on piano and chromatic harmonica. Accompanied by Jeff Buenz, Carlitos Medrano, and Akira Tana, the music blends various styles and highlights each musician’s proficiency. Notable tracks include “Bésame Mucho,” “Blues for McCoy,” and “Donna Lee.”
Jake Noble’s debut album, “Letting Go of a Dream,” tells a musical story of self-discovery in a digitized world. His quintet delivers varied tunes, but the mix often diminishes Noble’s bass presence. Inspired compositions showcase his potential, though some solos, particularly by Dominguez, could be more balanced. Noble’s journey in jazz looks promising.
Dafnis Prieto’s “3 Sides of the Coin” features compositions and arrangements by Prieto, a renowned drummer and bandleader. This album blends Latin rhythms with modern jazz, showcasing dynamic solos by band members. Highlights include imaginative piano solos by Martin Bejerano and powerful drum work from Prieto. The album releases on September 27, 2024.
Kurt Rosenwinkel’s “The Next Step Band Live at Smalls 1996,” captures a seminal moment in modern jazz, featuring dynamic performances by Rosenwinkel and his band. The album showcases his compositions and the group’s improvisational prowess. Standout tracks like “A Shifting Design” and “Use of Light” highlight the band’s energy and Rosenwinkel’s compositional strength.
Jazz vocalist Zack Foley’s album “Silent Boomer X” features an all-standard repertoire with innovative improvisation, using his voice like a saxophone. Supported by Frank Wagner on bass and C.J. Everett on drums, the trio spans three generations, reflected in the album’s title. Their chord-less arrangement is creatively engaging yet occasionally leaves the listener longing for harmonic accompaniment.
The Matt Panayides Trio’s album “With Eyes Closed,” featuring Matt Panayides on guitar, Steve LaSpina on bass, and Anthony Pinciotti on drums, highlights a shift to an acoustic approach. The album blends classic tunes with fresh arrangements, showcasing Panayides’ unique style reminiscent of jazz legends and includes notable solos by the trio.
Nestor Dimopoulos and Evgenia Karlafti, co-leaders of Music Soup, are set to release a new album on September 6, 2024. The trio, including drummer Vagelis Kotzabasis, features original compositions reflecting 1960s jazz organ trio style. Highlights include “A Day in the Park” and “Freeland.” They plan a U.S. tour.
Ann Kittredge’s “Romantic Notions” features her Broadway-like voice across a diverse selection of songs, including works by Stevie Wonder, Carole King, and Jimmy Webb. Her versatile style spans pop, country, and cabaret, with standout tracks like “I Feel the Earth Move” and “Garden.” The album showcases Kittredge’s emotional depth and exceptional enunciation, supported by talented musicians.
Dred Scott’s album, set for release on September 23, 2024, revitalizes Latin jazz classics and standards with a modern twist. Featuring vibrant arrangements and exceptional improvisations, the album highlights Scott’s piano skills, Beckham’s vibraphone, and contributions from Pavolka and Patrou. The project celebrates Latin jazz pioneers and offers an engaging, energetic listening experience.
“Live at the Speakeasy” is Augie Haas’s vibrant live recorded jazz album featuring top-tier musicians and two special guest vocalists. With a mix of original compositions and jazz standards, the album captures the raw, authentic energy of a night at a New York City jazz club, emphasizing improvisation and audience engagement.
Christopher Parnis is an emerging talent in the Canadian jazz scene, known for his power-driven leadership, composition skills, and adept bass playing. His album, featuring original compositions like “Opportunity,” “Measured Response,” and “The Cradle,” showcases his unique melodic and improvisational abilities, suggesting a bright future for the young bassist and composer.
Bria Skonberg’s album “What It Means,” reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil, is a tribute to New Orleans jazz, blending traditional and contemporary elements. Featuring standout trumpet performances and collaborative tracks with notable musicians, the album highlights Skonberg’s versatility as a vocalist, composer, and trumpeter, reminiscent of Louis Armstrong’s influence.
Michael Eaton’s album “Individuation” showcases modern jazz with experimental elements. The band features Eaton on saxophones, creating dissonant compositions with intricate improvisations. Drummer Shareef Taher shines in “Folk Song,” while Judi Silvano adds haunting vocals to “Alterpiece No. 1.” The project, composed by Eaton, spans eight years and three tours, culminating in a distinctive sound.
Greg Amirault’s album “A Change of Pace” features six original compositions and various standards, showcasing his smooth, inviting jazz guitar style. Supported by Adrian Vedady on bass and Andre White on drums, the trio innovatively reinterprets familiar tunes and original pieces. Amirault, a renowned jazz guitarist in Canada, teaches at McGill and Concordia Universities.
Elizabeth Rodriguez and Magdelys Savigne, known as OKAN, merge Afro-Cuban Santeria music with jazz fusion, creating a unique female perspective in a traditionally male-dominated genre. Their album “Okantomi by OKAN,” praised for its compelling vocals and instrumentation, features notable collaborations and has garnered critical acclaim, including NPR and CBC recognitions.
Tom Graf’s new album “Struttin’” showcases his expertise as a contemporary jazz composer, despite not performing on the production. Featuring prominent musicians like Ray Obiedo and Marc Russo, it highlights joyful and melodic tracks such as “Davis Street” and “Struttin’.” Graf’s legacy in smooth jazz continues with his eighth release.
Matt Booth, a prominent bassist from New Orleans, combines electric and upright bass on his album “Sun Prints.” Originally from Pittsburgh, Booth’s diverse music career led him to New Orleans, where he thrived in jazz. This album, featuring top musicians and styles from bebop to funk, releases August 23, 2024.
Jay D’Amico, a pianist, composer, and arranger, collaborates with bassist Marlon Martinez in blending jazz and European classical music. Their latest project, “Melodia,” features emotionally charged arrangements that merge intricate classical compositions with jazz elements. The album showcases a seamless duet harmony, highlighted by pieces such as “Melodia” and “Sonata for Piano & Bass.”
Ben Wolfe’s album, “The Understated,” features 10 original compositions performed by a talented ensemble. Highlights include Nicole Glover’s tenor sax on “The Poet Speaks,” Russell Malone’s guitar on “Occam’s Razor,” and notable solos by Orrin Evans. Wolfe, a renowned Juilliard professor, showcases his exceptional bass work and compositional prowess throughout.
ALEXIS COLE AND THE TAIPEI JAZZ ORCHESTRA JAZZ REPUBLIC; TAIWAN, THE UNITED STATES, AND THE FREEDOM OF SWING Tiger Turn Records Alexis Cole, vocals; Gene Aitken, conductor; Cheng-Yu Jimmy Lee, director/woodwinds; Kaoru Uno & Teresa You, piano; Daniel Chen, guitar; Ikeda Kinya, bass; Yi Hsuan Kuo, drums; Jhih Yu Shih, percussion; WOODWINDS: Ruby Pan, Justin […]
Fabio Rojas, a Venezuelan drummer and composer, narrates his musical journey and struggles as an immigrant through his album “Perseverance.” With tracks reflecting political stances, personal challenges, and Venezuelan folk influences, Rojas showcases his belief in persistence and adaptability, drawing parallels between his experiences and mythological and botanical symbols.
Warren Wolf’s album “History of the Vibraphone” features his dynamic vibraphone artistry alongside a talented quintet. Paying homage to legendary vibraphonists like Terry Gibbs, Lionel Hampton, and Bobby Hutcherson, Wolf curates a rich tapestry of jazz history. The album, reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil, releases on August 23, 2024.
“Alegria” by Shelly Berg features original compositions by the renowned pianist, joined by Carlitos Del Puerto, Dafnis Prieto, and Melvin Butler. The album showcases Berg’s piano talent and interaction with dynamic musicians, delivering joy and reflections. Highlights include “Home With You” and “Meatballs and Apple Pie,” blending jazz and blues.
Michael Dease’s album “Grove’s Groove,” honoring mentor Roy Hargrove, showcases his baritone saxophone prowess. Joined by an all-star band including Bill Cunliffe, Rodney Whitaker, and Terell Stafford, the album features bluesy tunes, a fresh take on “Tea for Two,” and the dynamic “Seiko Time.” Dee Dee McNeil reviews it as a standout project.
Wayne Escoffery’s album “Alone,” featuring Ron Carter, Gerald Clayton, and Carl Allen, showcases his smooth, tenor saxophone melodies and a softer side compared to his 2023 release. The album includes bluesy originals and reinterpretations, marked by captivating solos and intimate interplay among musicians, delivering a soothing, elegant jazz experience. Release date: August 30, 2024.
Youn Sun Nah’s album “ELLES,” produced by Warner Brothers Music, showcases her diverse musical journey, from classical training in South Korea to jazz and contemporary influences from France. Collaborating with Jon Cowherd, Nah explores genres through tracks like “Feeling Good” and “Cocoon,” highlighting female composers and artists, releasing August 30, 2024.
Rose Mallett’s “Dreams Realized” showcases her unique ability to reinterpret popular songs in a jazz style, featuring a diverse repertoire and collaborations with skilled musicians. Highlights include a jazz rendition of “Ain’t Nobody,” a bluesy “Feelin’ Good,” and an emotionally charged “It’s Impossible.” Mallett’s performances convey sincere emotion and personal significance.
Annie Booth and her trio celebrate The Beatles with her latest album, “Here, There and Everywhere,” her seventh release as a bandleader. Booth, a Denver-based pianist and educator, offers unique jazz arrangements of Beatles classics, showcasing her trio’s talents. The album, emphasizing authenticity and creativity, will be available on August 30, 2024.
Jeff Coffin’s “Only the Horizon” features a myriad of talented musicians across various genres, blending contemporary jazz with African rhythms and R&B. The album is characterized by its repetitive, catchy melodies, intricate improvisations, and diverse instrumentation, providing a rich, culturally eclectic musical experience that leaves a lasting impression.
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.
