Tenor saxophonist Ohad Talmor releases “Back to the Land,” a double album featuring unreleased Ornette Coleman pieces from discovered rehearsal tapes, mixed with fourteen of Talmor’s original works. The project showcases various ensemble configurations and innovative interpretations, marking a significant milestone in Talmor’s career and likely making its mark on year-end best lists.
Steve Sieck’s album, “Crazy That Way,” showcases his songwriting talent and versatile style, blending jazz, pop, and R&B influences. Produced by Dori Amarilio, it features original songs with relatable lyrics and emotional storytelling. Highlights include the Brazilian-influenced “The Mystery of Love” and the humorous title track, reflecting Sieck’s creative depth.
Courtney Cutchins’ debut album, Grunge to Grace, creatively fuses jazz with grunge influences from her youth, particularly reflecting her Seattle roots. Featuring notable musicians, Cutchins presents three grunge covers alongside six originals, showcasing her vocal prowess and emotional depth. Her work emphasizes self-discovery, offering both hope and authenticity through music.
“The Journey of Han” by John Chin, Jeong Lim Yang, and Jongkuk Kim explores Korean American identity through jazz, capturing emotions ranging from sorrow to liberation. Featuring compositions highlighting Chin’s piano mastery, Yang’s impressive bass solos, and Kim’s drumming, the album is rich in talent and emotion, showcasing diverse styles and cultural influences.
Amy Speace’s album, The American Dream, explores themes of nostalgia, resilience, and emotional turmoil beyond just heartbreak. Through evocative lyrics and collaboration with talented musicians, she reflects on personal experiences, societal fragility, and the pursuit of dreams. The album showcases her growth as an artist and resonant storytelling.
Colin James, inspired by Stevie Ray Vaughan, has released twenty studio albums, winning eight Juno and thirty Maple Blues Awards. His new album “Chasing The Sun,” recorded with Colin Linden, features seven originals and four covers, showcasing James’ emotive vocals and exceptional guitar skills. A US tour is planned for January 2025.
Mike Zito, an acclaimed blues musician with a history of overcoming alcoholism, has released his latest album “Life Is Hard,” featuring collaborations with renowned artists. His journey includes multiple award-winning albums and founding The Royal Southern Brotherhood. Zito’s work reflects themes of redemption and resilience, earning him numerous Blues Music Awards throughout his career.
Making a Scene presents the “LIVE from the Midnight Circus” podcast featuring Bobby Messano, which showcases Indie Blues artists. Celebrating the genre’s roots while promoting innovation, these musicians produce original music that evokes deep emotional connections. The platform embraces a diverse and evolving blues scene, empowering both past and future generations.
Mississippi MacDonald, a three-time British Blues Award nominee from London, showcases his blues roots with his sixth album “I Got What You Need”. Influenced by icons like Muddy Waters and B.B. King, he combines original pieces with classic covers, highlighting a rich blend of soul-blues and instrumental shuffles.
Bobby Messano is a renowned guitarist and blues artist with a prolific career, releasing nine solo albums and contributing to over 70 albums. Notable works include “Love & Money,” “BAD MOVIE,” and “MUSIC & OTHER SUNDRIES.” His music spans various media, earning accolades like the Blues Blast Award nomination and the Best Americana Album award at the World Entertainment Awards.
The Cold Stares, a dynamic duo known for their intense live performances, expanded their lineup in 2023 to embrace a power trio format. Following the success of their acclaimed album “Voices,” they recorded “The Southern,” set for a 2024 release. Their music has gained significant recognition and feature placements across various media.
Laila Biali’s “Wintersongs,” her tenth album, showcases her talent as a vocalist and composer, developed during a winter stay in the Rocky Mountains. The album blends pop and chamber music with warm, serene melodies. Featuring rich orchestration and contributions from various musicians, it offers a beautifully crafted listening experience, including seasonal favorites.
Dallas Orbiter, formed in 1999 in Minneapolis, evolved from previous bands, focusing on melodicism and improvisational freedom. They released multiple albums, including ‘There Are Machines for That’ and engaged in creative projects, notably a monthly single release from 2011. Recently, they recorded ‘Spaceman Things’ in 2023 and plan to share past jams under the alias Laser Bats from Mars.
Al Jarreau’s recording with the NDR Bigband captures a vibrant concert experience, featuring his last performances before his passing in February 2017. The recording showcases his improvisational talents on classic pieces like “Lush Life” and “A-Train.” This historical project celebrates both Jarreau’s legacy and the outstanding NDR Bigband.
Andy Baker’s debut for Calligram Records showcases his trombone mastery alongside Chicago jazz veterans Russ Johnson, Clark Sommers, and Dana Hall. Their chord-less quartet format highlights improvisation, particularly in Baker’s interpretations of classic tunes and original compositions. The album pays tribute to Baker’s influences, offering an exploratory jazz experience.
Rich Halley’s latest album, “Dusk & Dawn,” features his quartet with Michael Vlatkovich, Clyde Reed, and Carson Halley. Combining original compositions with spontaneous improvisations, the album showcases their collaborative spirit and musical chemistry. The track “The Return” exemplifies their dynamic interplay, creating an engaging experimental jazz experience.
Jocelyn Gould’s “Portrait of Right Now,” featuring her ensemble, showcases her distinguished style as a contemporary jazz guitarist. This fourth album, a blend of ten tracks—eight originals—exhibits her skill and creativity, drawing influence from jazz legends. Gould’s vibrant performances on guitar elevate her significant presence in modern jazz.
Emily Duff, a NYC-born artist, blends Sweet & Sour Rock & Roll with Country Soul in her music, reflecting themes of heaven, hell, romance, and regret. Since 2015, she has released six albums and a four-song EP, touring in the US and UK and hosting a monthly residency at NYC’s COWGIRL.
Diego Rivera’s album “Ofrenda,” his seventh and fifth for Posi-Tone, explores themes from the Mexican holiday Dia De Los Muertos through ten movements. Joined by Posi-Tone’s rhythm section and trumpeter Terell Stafford, Rivera blends jazz with cultural traditions, creating a vibrant tribute that honors lost loved ones while celebrating life.
Jason Robinson’s “Ancestral Numbers II” explores his family roots through innovative music encompassing themes of mythology, immigration, and personal history. Collaborating with a talented quintet, he delivers compositions that blend playfulness with emotion, honoring ancestors while maintaining accessibility. The project reflects a deep connection to memory and community throughout its diverse pieces.
“Live from the Midnight Circus Indie Blues Double Shot Show celebrates the evolution of blues through innovative and diverse indie artists. Featuring numerous musicians, the show honors past influences while spotlighting new original music. It emphasizes the blues as a living, emotional art form crafted with integrity. Tune into the Indie Blues Movement.”
Avishai Cohen’s album Ashes to Gold captures the emotional aftermath of conflict in the Middle East. Recorded shortly after the Israeli-Gaza war, it features a five-part suite that reflects tragedy and hope, showcasing carefully composed music in contrast to previous improvisational styles. The album emphasizes the necessity of expressing profound feelings through art.
Brian Lynch’s album “7X7by7” features seven musicians and seven original seven-minute tracks, all crafted during the pandemic. This project highlights Lynch’s life experiences and musical journey, showcasing individual talents within the ensemble. Celebrating the significance of the number seven, the album is set for release on October 25, 2024.
Ben Wendel’s “Understory: Live at the Village Vanguard” showcases his eclectic style as a saxophonist and composer. Collaborating with a skilled rhythm section, Wendel delivers a dynamic collection of original compositions, blending tradition with innovation. The live performance captures a warm atmosphere, engaging the audience throughout with improvisations and thoughtful arrangements.
IMPORTANT!! PLEASE READ BEFORE YOU ENTER ANY NOMINATIONS The independent Blues Awards celebrate the diversity and power of the music that is created by those artists that acknowledge their inspiration and roots are in the blues. These awards will represent not only those “touring” artists who work within the established blues community, but embrace working artists […]
Making a Scene’s podcast, Live from the Midnight Circus, showcases Indie Blues artists who honor traditional blues roots while innovating new music. Featuring artists like Andy Peake and Shemekia Copeland, it emphasizes the emotional depth and diversity of blues. The show promotes understanding and connection through the blues’ evolving art form.
Making a Scene presents “Turn It Up” with Gerry Casey, showcasing an array of musical talents and tracks in Show #267. Featured artists include Electric Mary, The Reverend Shaun Amos, JP Reali, Izzy Reign, and many others spanning genres from rock to blues. Notable songs include classics by Supertramp, LA Guns, and Prince.
Sarah Pierce, born in Rockford, Illinois, to a family of cattlemen, began singing in her stepfather’s band at 12. Despite her medical science degree, she pursued music, touring globally and appearing on MTV. With multiple acclaimed albums, including “Barbed Wire” and “Blessed By The West,” she remains a prominent figure in country music, gaining CMA awards and IWMA nominations.
Mavis Pan’s album “Rising” blends classical and chamber music with touches of jazz, highlighted by intricate horn and flute solos. Born in Taiwan and trained internationally, Pan offers a varied musical background. While her compositions are classical, the jazz influence is featured in certain tracks, showcasing both complexity and emotional depth.
Gerry Casey interviews Rusty Brown of Electric Mary, exploring the band’s journey following their inspiration at Jimi Hendrix’s Electric Lady Studios in 2003. From extensive Australian and European tours to releasing albums and EPs, Electric Mary returned in 2019 with their significant album “MOTHER,” showcasing their deep-rooted rock and blues heritage.
Kat Riggins, born in Miami, is a blues musician influenced by legends like Koko Taylor and Nina Simone. Her sixth album, “Revival,” co-written with Tim Mulberry, features ten original tracks blending blues, soul, and R&B. The album showcases themes of empowerment and nostalgia, highlighting Riggins’ vocal prowess and songwriting talent.
Naomi Moon Siegel’s album “Shatter the Glass Sanctuary” showcases her skills as a trombonist and composer, blending modern and free jazz with emotional depth. Each track offers unique instrumental arrangements, highlighted by contributions from her talented ensemble. Siegel’s work is influenced by personal experiences, reflecting a journey of emotional and cultural exploration. Her accolades affirm her innovative approach and contributions to jazz.
Michael Mayo’s sophomore album, “Fly,” embraces pure jazz, diverging from his jazz-infused R&B debut, “Bones.” Collaborating with notable jazz musicians, Mayo delivers a mix of originals and jazz classics. Highlights include scatting, vocalese, and family contributions, showcasing his vocal prowess and improvisational skill. His approach offers a rich, immediate, and soulful jazz journey.
Eric Person’s “Rhythm Edge,” originally released in 2007, has been remixed and reissued. This standout jazz album features Person’s Meta-Four Quartet, prominent guest artists, and diverse compositions, from high-energy post-bop to soulful ballads. With vibrant solos, contemporary infusion, and Person’s dynamic leadership, it underscores his prowess as a saxophonist and composer.
No Words ATL is a unique, community-driven 3-day instrumental music festival held across five venues in Atlanta from October 11 to 13. Showcasing twenty-two diverse performers ranging from classical to hip-hop, it offers a wordless musical experience. Headliners include Trap Jazz, Glenn Phillips, and Kebbi Williams. Tickets are $75 for three days or $30 per day.
Teri Parker’s Free Spirits, a Toronto-based jazz group formed in 2019, pays tribute to pianists Mary Lou Williams and Geri Allen. Their album features compositions by Parker and Allen, blending jazz with diverse styles. Notable tracks include “Unconditional Love” and “Survival,” with spoken word elements exploring contemporary themes. The group showcases artistic innovation and historical influences.
Vivian Buczek’s “Le Grand Michel,” due for release on October 25th, honors Michel Legrand’s compositions, showcasing her jazz flair alongside musicians like Mathias Heise and Martin Sjöstedt. Buczek’s emotive vocals shine, especially on tracks like “The Windmills of Your Mind.” The album includes both Legrand classics and an original by Peter Asplund.
Dann Zinn’s album “Two Roads” is a testament to his resilience and musical prowess, featuring collaborations with renowned musicians like Rachel Z and Omar Hakim. Despite a hand injury that required modifications to his saxophone, Zinn delivers a diverse range of compositions. The album balances intense and sensitive musical expressions, maintaining Zinn’s commitment to his craft.
“Live from the Midnight Circus Indie Blues Double Shot Show celebrates the evolution of blues through innovative and diverse indie artists. Featuring numerous musicians, the show honors past influences while spotlighting new original music. It emphasizes the blues as a living, emotional art form crafted with integrity. Tune into the Indie Blues Movement.”
Caleb Wheeler Curtis, a versatile multi-instrumentalist, showcases his talents in two recent albums: “The True Story of Bears and the Invention of the Battery” and “Raise Four: Monk The Minimalist.” Featuring a range of saxophones and a blend of original compositions and covers, Curtis explores innovative jazz techniques, demonstrating his musicianship and distinct style.
Darius Jones, a saxophonist known for his avant-garde and experimental music, releases “Legend of e’Boi (The Hypervigilant Eye),” part of his Man’ish Boy series. This work embodies themes of Black mental health and healing, featuring a chordless saxophone trio and artistic collaborations. It’s a personal journey of overcoming trauma, highlighting Jones’ expressive horn playing and emotional depth.
Jeff Lederer’s album “Guilty!!!” offers a satirical political statement through jazz, marked by humor and intricate compositions. Addressing socio-political themes of the 2024 election year, it features chaotic electronic and instrumental elements. Emphasizing dishonest discourse, it aims to engage listeners with a live-streamed event on Election Eve, culminating in “Truth is Marching In.”
Filippo Dall’Asta, an Italian guitarist, merges modern Gypsy Jazz with unique arrangements on “The Hot Club of Tenerife” album. Featuring classic jazz standards and original compositions, the album showcases a blend of rich Romani influences and modern elements. With performances across Europe, Dall’Asta captures joyful rhythms and innovative twists in this vibrant musical collection.
In “Urban Chaos,” Nick Adema, a Canadian trombonist based in Amsterdam, explores themes of life and loss following his mother’s passing. The album features varied compositions with contributions from talented musicians, including string quartets and horns, emphasizing Adema’s trombone prowess and blending jazz with emotional depth and innovation.
Joy Clark’s album “Tell It to the Wind” highlights her journey as a Black, queer, Southern artist breaking through the music scene with support from artists like Brandi Carlile and Ani DiFranco. Produced by Margaret Becker, the album features themes of resilience, empowerment, and belonging, with a blend of gentle sonics and infectious choruses, marking Clark as an influential voice for survivors.
Hayes Carll and The Band of Heathens collaborate to create a dynamic musical experience, blending country and rock with exceptional songwriting and performances. Their debut features clever, humorous tracks marked by harmonious vocals and distinct styles, suggesting a promising partnership that could earn them supergroup status. Notably, the album highlights Carll’s artistic evolution.
Eric Bibb, son of Leon Bibb, grew up among legendary folk musicians and has released numerous albums over his career. His latest, “In The Real World,” is a collaborative effort recorded in Sweden, London, and Nashville. The album features diverse instrumentation and heartfelt lyrics, exemplifying Bibb’s enduring artistry and storytelling prowess.
“Making a Scene Presents the LIVE from the Midnight Circus podcast, featuring Chris Daniels and the Kings. This show celebrates Indie Blues artists who innovate and honor the roots of blues. It showcases diverse, original music that connects emotionally with listeners, emphasizing truth and integrity in their creations.”
Gerry Casey’s Show #266 features Sky Wood of The Blues Chapter and includes a diverse playlist. Artists span rock and blues genres with tracks from Black Sabbath, Queen, The Blues Chapter, Judas Priest, and Jon Bon Jovi among others. Highlights include classics like “Paranoid,” “Barracuda,” and “Bittersweet Symphony.”
Jared McCloud transitioned from hard rock to a solo career, adopting a more substantive musical style. He found success with his indie debut “Romance Of The Atlantic” and continued to rise with “Painful Words Of Loving Grace”. After a difficult divorce, he crowdfunded his album “To Live And Die In Your Arms”, which achieved significant acclaim.
