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.
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.
Gary Nicholson’s new album “Common Sense” addresses political divisions through music, featuring various genres and collaborations with renowned artists. Co-produced with Kevin McKendree in Nashville, the album includes tracks like “What A Little Love Can Do” and “Make Good Trouble,” blending messages of unity, love, and common sense with diverse musical styles and talent.
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.
Emily Duff’s “The Obvious Invisible,” produced by John Jackson, reconnects her with 70’s psychedelic folk rock. Featuring a diverse ensemble, the album’s tracks explore themes of love, resilience, and self-reflection. Highlights include “Dangerous,” “She Never Loved Me,” and “Amazing Light,” each showcasing Duff’s unique lyrical and musical talents across twelve stripped-down songs.
“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.
Terry “Harmonica” Bean, born in 1961, is an American blues harmonicist, guitarist, and songwriter committed to promoting older blues styles like Delta and Hill country blues. He released seven albums since 2001, including “Here I Am Baby” and “Catfish Blues,” and collaborated with various major blues artists.
Albert Castiglia, a Miami-raised blues musician, began his career backing Junior Wells and Sandra Hall before launching a solo career with his 2002 debut album “Burn.” He gained recognition in 2020 with his award-winning album “Masterpiece.” His latest album, “Righteous Souls,” features original songs and covers, showcasing his guitar skills and soulful vocals.
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.
Shemekia Copeland’s album “Blame It On Eve,” recorded at Skinny Elephant Recording and produced by Will Kimbrough and John Hahn, features a mix of poignant and powerful blues tracks. The album highlights her vocal prowess and storytelling, with notable contributions by various musicians and heartfelt dedications to her family and musical heritage.
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.
Duke Robillard’s “Roll with Me” from Stony Plain Records is a vibrant blues album featuring both classic and original tracks. Robillard, a blues legend, enlists former and current Roomful of Blues members to deliver a powerful, nostalgic, and energetic set, showcasing his exceptional guitar skills and authentic blues spirit. Recorded 20 years ago, the album feels timeless.
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.
Michael Reynolds, former lead vocalist of alt-country band Pinmonkey, makes a triumphant return to music with “Tarnished Nickel Sky,” produced by Ray Kennedy and released by Blue Elan Records. The album features haunting songs of poignant themes and an impressive ensemble, reflecting Reynolds’ renewed passion and creative liberation.
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.
Sierra Green & The Giants’ album “Here We Are,” released by Big Radio Records, showcases Sierra’s emotive voice and rich musical roots from New Orleans’ 7th Ward. Collaborating with esteemed musicians including David Torkanowsky and J.D. Simo, the album reimagines legendary soul classics, embodying timeless soul with captivating performances that etch Sierra’s legacy in music history.
Tab Benoit, renowned blues artist, releases “I Hear Thunder,” his first studio album in thirteen years. With ten original tracks, the album features collaborations with Anders Osborne and includes contributions from bassist Corey Duplechin, drummer Terence Higgins, and guest George Porter Jr. Recorded at Whiskey Bayou Studios, the album blends Benoit’s unique style with environmental themes and reflective lyrics.
“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.
Chris Daniels & The Kings, formed in 1984, have celebrated their 40th anniversary with “Blues With Horns Volume II.” Known for their Chicago-styled horn arrangements, the band, now featuring Freddi Gowdy, continues to infuse energetic “call and response” dynamics. The album showcases tracks blending blues, soul, and R&B influences.
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.
Guy Davis, a seasoned American blues musician, excels in playing multiple instruments and vocals. At 72, his career spans music and acting, with two Grammy nominations. His latest album, “The Legend of Sugarbelly,” features diverse songs rooted in blues tradition, showcasing his deep cultural influences and storytelling prowess.
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.
“Pocket Change” by Andy Peake is the follow-up to his 2021 debut album, featuring Peake on drums and vocals. The album, self-produced and mastered at Big Little Records, includes contributions from top musicians like guitarists Will McFarlane and Kenny Vaughan. Seven tracks are written or co-written by Peake.
Satoko Fujii and Natsuki Tamura’s album “Aloft” marks their ninth collaborative project, celebrating nearly thirty years together. Blending classical, rock, contemporary, traditional Japanese music, and American jazz, they produce original, improvised compositions. Each track offers intricate interplay, exemplified by “Migration” and “Wintering,” showcasing their profound musical understanding and spontaneity.
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.
Memphis Royal Brothers is a band inspired by the documentary “Take Me To The River”. Formed by Richard and Gary Bolen in Memphis, with Boo Mitchell co-producing, the band includes Grammy winners Bobby Rush and Jim Lauderdale. The album features standout tracks like “Good God I Got The Blues” and “Ready To Rise”, showcasing a blend of roots, blues, and rock n’ roll, performed by an exceptional ensemble.
John “Jubu” Smith, a versatile musician, began his career at age four in his father’s gospel quartet. Over four decades, he has played with Tony Toni Tone, Whitney Houston, and Frankie Beverly & Maze. Smith’s new album, an all-instrumental project featuring eight original tracks, showcases his talents alongside collaborators like Charlie Hunter and Calvin Napper.
Dickey Betts, a versatile musician, is honored with “Live From the Lone Star Roadhouse New York City 1988,” showcasing a full performance by the Dickey Betts Band. The recording includes classic and new songs, featuring guest appearances by Rick Derringer, Jack Bruce, and Mick Taylor. This album highlights Betts’ exceptional guitar skills and rich musical legacy.
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.
