Charles A. Kelly’s second album, part of a trilogy, showcases his talents as a pianist and composer through lively originals infused with R&B and funk elements. Tracks like “City Night” and “Bring It to Compliance” reflect his Philadelphia roots and jazz influences, featuring engaging melodies and a strong ensemble.
Kaisa Mäensivu’s album “Kaisa’s Machine” showcases original compositions blending Finnish and American jazz influences. Featuring notable musicians, including Melissa Aldana and Maja Mannila, the tracks exhibit rich arrangements like “Midnight Sun” and “Moon Waves.” The album captures unique rhythms, highlighting Kaisa’s bass and her creative improvisation throughout.
The Alison Rayner Quintet (ARQ), featuring talented musicians and friends, presents a live jazz album titled “SEMA4,” recorded at the Vortex Jazz Club. With original compositions reflecting personal experiences and themes such as freedom and cosmic communication, the album captures their relaxed chemistry and joyful stage presence, offering a unique listening experience.
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Juan Perea, a law professor and accomplished pianist, releases his album “Lightkeeper,” showcasing his piano and compositional skills with seven original songs and two Tito Puente covers. Notable tracks include “Lylestyle,” “El Sueno,” and a tribute to McCoy Tyner. Perea aims to inspire joy through his music.
Rachel Therrien’s “Mi Hogar II,” her eighth album, explores Latin jazz with a vibrant ensemble. Featuring compositions like “Orun” and “Back Home,” Therrien blends traditional and contemporary jazz elements through her trumpet. The album pays tribute to Latin music pioneers while showcasing the talents of a talented group of musicians, creating a rich auditory experience.
Sylvie Courvoisier and Mary Halvorson, two acclaimed musicians, collaborate on “Bone Bells,” blending contemporary chamber music and avant-garde jazz. Each composes alternating tracks, creating an evocative soundscape. Highlights include the haunting title track and the unpredictable “Esmeralda.” Their synergy showcases a dynamic fusion of unique talents, akin to a perfect culinary pairing.
The Twangtown Paramours, a Nashville-based duo of Mike T. Lewis and MaryBeth Zamer, blend Americana, Folk, and Blues in their acclaimed music. Their upcoming album, The Wind Will Change Again, features their best acoustic songs to date, showcasing a range of emotions and impeccable musicianship, all while maintaining a lighthearted approach to life.
Brûlez Les Meubles, a Quebec-based avant-garde music group, debuted in 2016 and features prominent improvisers. Their latest release, “Folio #5,” lacks drums, creating a distinct sound. The collaboration between founders Louis Beaudoin-de la Sablonnière and Eric Normand invites notable musicians, blending spontaneity with melody in unique compositions.
Strat Andriotis, a Greek-Canadian guitarist and composer, blends blues and jazz influences, notably from Miles Davis and Jimi Hendrix. His album “Exits” showcases eight original tracks with varying trios, emphasizing his adaptability across genres. The project highlights his compositional talent and technical proficiency on the guitar.
Joe Elefante’s album “Wheel of Dharma” marks his return to the jazz scene after a long hiatus. Following personal tragedy, Elefante, along with talented musicians, showcases his passion through original compositions. The album reflects his journey, creativity, and tribute to his late wife, featuring memorable tracks like “Bad Dancing” and “The One Who Knows.”
Rick Roe leads a trio of Detroit musicians, including Grammy winner Robert Hurst and drummer Nate Winn, in a tribute to Lansing composer Gregg Hill. Their performances highlight Hill’s well-crafted compositions, blending jazz and gospel influences. Each musician showcases their talent, creating a refreshing sound that resonates with both emotion and creativity.
Stefan Smulovitz’s album “Bow & Brush: 12 Scores of Nadina Tandy” showcases an innovative collaboration with visual artist Nadina Tandy. Featuring twelve compositions, Smulovitz integrates diverse sounds, including violin and electronic elements, creating rich, evocative landscapes. The album package includes Tandy’s artwork, enhancing the immersive artistic experience.
Dayna Stephens’ album “Hopium,” set for release on February 7, 2025, blends hope and reality through seven original compositions. Featuring a quintet, the music navigates emotions of optimism and disillusionment. Each track showcases Stephens’ saxophones and the contributions of talented collaborators, culminating in an engaging exploration of life’s uncertainties.
Dan Fortin’s “Cannon” is an evocative experimental jazz album featuring a range of talented musicians. Since his 2015 debut, Fortin has captivated with his unique blend of electric and double bass, synthesizers, and avant-garde influences. The collaborative compositions invite listeners to explore innovative soundscapes, challenging and rewarding their imagination.
“Forq’s” album “Big Party” showcases funk and fusion through a collaborative effort of skilled improvisers led by keyboardist Henry Hey. Known for eclectic influences, the group blends various genres, including reggae and blues. Featuring energetic performances and innovative arrangements, this album offers a vibrant musical journey perfect for fans of rhythm-driven music.
Ginetta M.’s sixth CD, “Fun Size,” features her on pocket trumpet and vocals, alongside talented musicians. Recognized by UNESCO, she excels in jazz, blending styles, particularly Latin and blues. The album showcases her talent, especially in improvisation and unique vocal style. Ginetta embraces her role as a jazz ambassador globally, performing widely.
Tryptique, comprised of Fern Lindzon, Colleen Allen, and George Koller, blends various musical styles in their debut album. Their sound, reminiscent of chamber music, is soothing and explores intricate arrangements. While some pieces diverge from expected jazz elements, their contemporary classical approach offers an enjoyable listening experience for quiet moments.
Nikara Warren’s album blends jazz, hip-hop, R&B, and house, showcasing her vibraphone skills with collaborations featuring talented musicians. The arrangements, including fresh takes on classics like Marvin Gaye’s “Inner City Blues,” highlight rich Caribbean influences and modern improvisation. Each track contributes to an immersive cultural tribute.
Charles Tolliver’s concert album, “Live at the Captain’s Cabin,” showcases a dynamic quartet featuring brilliant interplay among Tolliver on trumpet, John Hicks on piano, Clint Houston on bass, and Cliff Barbaro on drums. Their creativity and cohesion shine through original compositions and jazz standards, resulting in an engaging and powerful listening experience.
“Colouring Hockets” is John Hollenbeck’s ninth large ensemble album, featuring Germany’s NDR Bigband and percussionist Marcio Doctor. The album creatively integrates a four-piece percussion quartet, presenting a unique blend of contemporary classical, jazz, and post-rock, influenced subtly by Latin rhythms. It includes both new works and repurposed compositions, showcasing innovative timbral textures.
Elsa Nilsson’s album “Quila Quina” features flute compositions inspired by the Argentine landscape during her writing residency. Collaborating with pianist Santiago Leibson, the music blends classical and easy listening elements. While calming and beautiful, it leans more towards European Classical rather than jazz, showcasing Nilsson’s artistic expression and musical journey.
Neta Raanan’s debut album “Unforeseen Blossom” showcases her soft, introspective tenor saxophone tone, influenced by jazz greats. Featuring a talented ensemble, the live recording highlights improvisation and creativity. The album combines post-bop with funk, reflecting Raanan’s soaring melodies and artistic vision, marking her as a promising rising talent in modern jazz.
Donald Vega’s holiday album “All Is Merry and Bright” features vibrant jazz interpretations of classic carols. Alongside bassist Clovis Nicolas and drummer Pete Van Nostrand, Vega infuses joy and modernity into tracks like “Joy to the World” and “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel.” The album promises a delightful addition to any festive music collection.
Greg Nagy is a versatile artist known for his soulful blend of blues, R&B, and rock. His debut album earned a Best New Artist nomination, with subsequent releases like “Fell Toward None” and “Stranded” receiving critical acclaim. He has performed at prestigious events and collaborated with notable musicians, solidifying his standing in contemporary blues.
Maria Puga Lareo’s debut U.S. album showcases her jazz and Brazilian music talents, featuring a skilled orchestra co-produced with her husband, Bob Sheppard. The album includes both classic jazz standards and original compositions, highlighting Lareo’s vocal range in English and Portuguese. Critics praise her passionate performances and collaboration.
