Jon Irabagon’s quartet “PlainsPeak” showcases a blend of straight-ahead and avant-garde jazz, featuring musicians like trumpeter Russ Johnson and bassist Clark Sommers. The album reflects Irabagon’s deep connection to Chicago, its music, and his artistic journey, with compositions that highlight emotional depth and musical exploration.
Vance Thompson, a Grammy-nominated musician, transitioned from trumpet to vibraphone after battling a neurological disorder. His debut album “Lost and Found,” showcases his joyful compositions, featuring skilled performances by his ensemble. With a blend of swinging numbers and beautiful ballads, Thompson’s music spreads happiness and highlights his resilience and creativity.
Wild Blue Herons, featuring Darlene Cooper and Bill Sample, has evolved into a groove-oriented band with a new horn section. Their album showcases a blend of jazz, funky ballads, and smooth pop, highlighting their lyrical compassion and musical creativity. Both artists bring extensive experience, contributing to a contemporary, uplifting sound.
“Arid Landscapes” features musicians Noah Franche-Nolan and Dan Pitt, who, despite geographical distance, collaborated during COVID-19 to create a unique album blending jazz with ambient and electronic music. Their innovative soundscapes explore improvisation and themes of nature, showcasing their deep musical connection and pushing genre boundaries.
The album “Let’s Not Wait: The Music of Ed Bonoff,” featuring drummer Greg Burrows and esteemed jazz musicians, celebrates Ed Bonoff’s compositions. Highlighting tracks like “Piazza Navona” and “Meatloaf and Margaux,” it showcases powerful horn arrangements and Burrows’s drumming. The album offers a fresh perspective on Bonoff’s talent and jazz artistry.
Jimbo Ross, a renowned five-string electric viola/violin player, has had a prolific career collaborating with icons like Frank Sinatra and Paul McCartney. His latest jazz album, “Jazz Passion and Latin Satin,” showcases his unique sound and improvisational skills, alongside talented musicians. The album features diverse tracks, blending genres and highlighting Ross’s virtuosity.
The album “The Free Slave” features jazz drummer Roy Brooks and showcases his influence on bebop, highlighting his compositional skills and melodic drumming. Produced by Zev Feldman, this 1972 recording captures the energy and creativity of Brooks and his notable bandmates, reflecting the complex Black American experience through jazz.
Bobby Rozario’s second album “Healer” blends jazz, blues, and cultural influences from his Indian and Brazilian-Portuguese heritage. Featuring powerful themes of unity and healing, Rozario’s soulful voice, accompanied by a diverse ensemble, delivers vibrant tracks infused with contemporary rhythms, addressing world issues and encouraging a collective consciousness through music.
The Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra, founded in 2013, presents “The Nutcracker Remix,” a contemporary jazz reinterpretation of Tchaikovsky’s classic. Under Rob Parton’s direction, the ensemble infuses samba and hip-hop elements. Featuring tracks like “Pistachio March” and vocalist Mandy Gaines on holiday songs, this album offers a vibrant holiday listening experience.
Mike Freeman’s album “Circles in a Yellow Room” showcases his vibraphone and original compositions inspired by the pandemic. Infused with Afro-Cuban grooves, Latin jazz, and catchy melodies, the album features a talented ensemble, including congas and horns. It’s a vibrant, dance-inducing collection perfect for lively listening during challenging times.
Karen Lefrak and Sharon Isbin collaborate on the album “Romantico,” showcasing Lefrak’s lyrical compositions and Isbin’s acclaimed guitar artistry. Isbin, an award-winning guitarist with a diverse repertoire, has performed globally and produced over 40 albums. Lefrak, a versatile composer and author, adds depth to this musical project, promising an enriching experience.
Todd Herbert’s post-bop album showcases five original compositions among its ten tracks. The title piece, “Captain Hubs,” honors the late Freddie Hubbard. Herbert, an accomplished tenor saxophonist, is joined by talented musicians, including NEA Jazz Master Louis Hayes. This energetic quartet delivers captivating melodies and excellent improvisation throughout the recording.
Enrique Haneine’s album “Conceivable Directions” features an experimental jazz quintet blending diverse cultural influences, primarily Latin and Lebanese, into his compositions. Haneine’s melodic drumming intertwines with horns, creating unique soundscapes. Tracks like “Unique Array of Swirls” and “Perpetual Insights” showcase intricate arrangements and musical freedom, highlighting his innovative approach.
“Trio of Bloom” features renowned jazz musicians Craig Taborn, Nels Cline, and Marcus Gilmore, delivering over sixty minutes of experimental music. The album, inspired by various influences, includes unique compositions like “Night Whistlers” and “Unreal Light.” It blends rich sounds and textures, creating a captivating auditory experience. Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil.
Steve Rosenbloom Big Band’s debut album “San Francisco 1948” features nine original compositions by composer and alto saxophonist Steve Rosenbloom, showcasing a blend of jazz styles. The vibrant arrangements highlight talented musicians, with notable performances from Eric Harding on piano and Allison Burik on saxophone, creating a rich listening experience.
The album “Oneness World” by Premik Russell Tubbs and Margee Minier-Tubbs blends jazz fusion, East Indian, Celtic, and blues influences into a cohesive exploration of unity and love. Featuring a talented ensemble, the richly produced tracks incorporate diverse musical styles and address themes of humanity, creativity, and resistance against corporate greed.
José Gobbo’s second trio album, “Confluence,” features six original compositions that blend various influences, including Brazilian rhythms. The album showcases a unique approach to modern jazz, with moments of dissonance and improvisation. The musicians exhibit strong chemistry, culminating in an emotive reinterpretation of “My One and Only Love.”
The Charlie Rouse Band’s “Cinnamon Flower: The Expanded Edition” showcases Rouse’s soulful tenor saxophone against a rich backdrop of Brazilian music. This 1977 recording features notable musicians and offers both original and modified versions. Accompanied by a detailed booklet, this limited edition celebrates Rouse’s enduring musical legacy. Availability starts September 19, 2025.
David Bailis’s album “Running Through My Mind” showcases his modern jazz style, featuring compositions that blend funk, jazz, and imaginative guitar work. With a talented quintet, including Caroline Davis on alto saxophone, Bailis explores his musical roots while reflecting his passion for running, emphasizing discipline and dedication in both music and life.
The album “As We Are Now” by Jimmy Greene features a blend of smooth jazz compositions with emotional saxophone performances. Collaborating with vocalists and a talented band, Greene’s artistry shines through original pieces like “Praises” and “Anhelando”, as well as a fresh take on “Speak Low”. The project showcases intricate melodies and rhythmic energy.
“Many Rivers” features Lauren Scales, Mike Flanagan, and Chris Grasso, showcasing a blend of jazz interpretations of R&B and pop classics. Scales’ angelic vocals shine alongside skilled musicianship, with memorable renditions of songs by D’Angelo, Neil Diamond, Thelonious Monk, and others. Their eclectic style touches hearts across genres.
The 8-Bit Big Band, led by GRAMMY winner Charlie Rosen, celebrates its fifth album with fresh orchestral arrangements of iconic video game music, featuring over 90 NYC musicians. Highlights include solos by Brian Sheu and Andrew Gould, showcasing tracks like “Wii Sports Theme” and “Kass’s Theme” from Zelda. The band aims to enrich the video game songbook.
The album “The Copenhagen Session Vol 1” features the late Tomasz Stańko and a group of Scandinavian and Polish musicians, recorded in 2016. This collection showcases free, avant-garde jazz, highlighting compositions by Stańko and others. The session, initially unplanned, vibrantly captures the spontaneity and creativity within jazz, celebrating Stańko’s enduring musical legacy.
Dawn Clement’s album “Delight” showcases her mastery of piano and vocals, featuring a talented trio with Buster Williams on bass and Matt Wilson on drums. The album includes original compositions and unique interpretations, notably of Thelonious Monk’s “Monk’s Dream.” Clement’s creativity and vocal warmth define each track, culminating in an enriching listening experience.
Nick Biello’s album “New America” showcases his original compositions that blend jazz with classical and Latin influences. Notable tracks include “Bel Canto,” “Queen of Jordan,” and “Before the Flood,” highlighting the talents of Biello and his ensemble. The music evokes a range of emotions, celebrating inclusion and joy through expertly crafted melodies.
Kaze, a unique avant-garde quartet featuring notable musicians including Koichi Makigami, Satoko Fujii, and Christian Pruvost, showcases an innovative blend of improvisation and vocals. Their album includes tracks with whimsical elements, such as “Make A Change,” which highlights Makigami’s extraordinary vocal range. The music promises surprising creativity and humor.
Saul Dautch’s album “Music for the People” showcases his baritone saxophone skills, influenced by jazz legends. The quintet features varied compositions, including original pieces and a tribute to mentor Pepper Adams. Dautch’s heartfelt liner notes reflect gratitude for his journey in music over five years in New York City.
Mira Choquette, a multi-lingual vocalist, collaborates with Armenian jazz musicians, including pianist Samvel Gasparyan, to create a diverse jazz album. Their performances of classic songs showcase emotional depth and cultural fusion. The project evolved from a duo concept to a fuller ensemble, reflecting the unique atmosphere of Armenia.
The George Crotty Trio, featuring cellist/composer George Crotty, bassist John Murchison, and percussionist Jeremy Smith, blends multicultural influences, creating a unique contemporary jazz sound. Formed in 2019, Crotty’s compositions incorporate elements from European jazz and Hindustani music, showcasing techniques like fingerpicking and thematic depth across eight original tracks.
“Oblique Rhyme” by Joe Santa Maria and David Tranchina showcases a talented Southern California jazz quartet. The album features original compositions from each member, blending diverse musical styles while emphasizing emotional depth over technicality. Highlights include Santa Maria’s “War Crime” and Tranchina’s “Hidden Lake,” highlighting the group’s creativity and collaboration.
Stefan Hegerat’s band, Stef.in, releases their second album “Icterus II,” blending jazz, rock, and electronics. The quartet, featuring guitars, bass, and drums, creates an experimental soundscape. Key tracks include “Here’s to Circle” and “Aku San Zan,” showcasing rhythmic complexities and melodic intricacies that cater to an acquired taste in music.
Masha Campagne’s fourth album, “Alegre Menina,” reflects her artistic journey and roots, influenced by her grandfather’s jazz legacy. After relocating from Russia to San Francisco, she found success in jazz festivals and collaborations. This album features original compositions and Brazilian classics, showcasing her authentic vocal style and rich musical arrangements.
Marina Pacowski’s “New Jazz Standards Volume 7” celebrates the intricate compositions of Carl Saunders, showcasing her vocal and piano talent alongside renowned musicians. Tracks range from joyful arrangements to heartfelt tributes, with standout moments of improvisation and scat singing. Pacowski’s connection to Saunders’ music unites artistic excellence and emotional depth.
Tim Jago’s album “Time Shift” showcases a fusion of jazz and rock, featuring an all-star ensemble. Renowned musicians like saxophonist Mark Small and pianist Martin Bejerano enhance Jago’s innovative compositions. The album explores diverse tempos and rhythmic shifts, culminating in engaging arrangements that reflect life’s changes through music, making it a compelling jazz experience.
Eric Scott Reed’s album “Out Late” features a quintet of seasoned jazz musicians, capturing the vibrant essence of New York City’s nightlife. Composed entirely by Reed, each track showcases intricate arrangements that encourage improvisation. Recorded in an old-school style, the musicians emphasize collaboration and raw energy, resulting in a captivating jazz experience.
Ingrid Laubrock’s “Purposing the Air” is a two-disc experimental album where the composer blends poetry by Erica Hunt with diverse vocalists and instrumentalists. Each track features short, evocative compositions, challenging artistic boundaries. Collaborators include Fay Victor, Rachel Calloway, and Duo Cortona, highlighting Laubrock’s vision and the emotive power of spoken word.
José Luiz Martins’ “Odyssey Mixtape” intertwines Brazilian roots with American fusion jazz and hip hop, showcasing his piano and composition skills despite battling Focal Dystonia. Featuring notable guests, the album highlights themes of resilience and hope, blending vibrant arrangements with heartfelt performances. It will be released on April 18, 2025.
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.
Blockchain crowdfunding offers musicians a way to raise funds directly from fans through cryptocurrency, eliminating middlemen and fees associated with traditional platforms. Independent artists like Mia Carter can create campaigns, offer unique rewards, and engage their supporters more closely, fostering a collaborative environment that empowers both creators and fans in the music industry.
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.