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.
Vaneese Thomas, daughter of blues legend Rufus Thomas, has a rich musical heritage. Her latest album, “Stories In Blue,” showcases her prowess as a songwriter and singer, blending blues, soul, and gospel. Featuring personal tributes and heartfelt lyrics, the album maintains her family’s musical legacy while highlighting her distinct artistic voice.
Christopher Wyze, frontman of a blues band for 20 years, has emerged as a notable lyricist and stylist, gaining recognition from the Nashville Songwriters Association International. His debut album, recorded in Muscle Shoals and Clarksdale, blends blues, rock, Americana, and country, delivering rich narratives and diverse musical styles alongside an ensemble of accomplished musicians.
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.
“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.”
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.
Jimmy Carpenter, a Grammy and Blues Music Award winner, has released his new album “Just Got Started” produced by “Kid” Andersen. Highlights include original tunes and covers with a blues, soul, and rock vibe. Carpenter, also president of The Las Vegas Blues Society, showcases high-energy performances backed by prominent musicians.
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.
The podcast “Live from the Midnight Circus” features Diane Durrett and celebrates Indie Blues artists who innovate within the blues genre. It honors the past while empowering the future through new, original music that reflects reality and deeply connects with listeners. Tune in to become part of the Indie Blues movement.
The summary of the post content for “Turn it up with Gerry Casey show #260” includes an extensive playlist featuring notable artists like The Struts, Rival Sons, Danielle Nicole, Jimi Hendrix, and many more. The show spotlights Jeff Pitchell as a guest, showcasing his songs “Now You Know,” “Brown Eyed Blues,” “Wait,” and “Caught Up In The Wave.”
“Making a Scene Presents the podcast ‘Live from the Midnight Circus,’ featuring Tom Craig and various Indie Blues artists. The show celebrates the diversity, innovation, and emotional depth of contemporary blues music, featuring artists who honor blues traditions while creating new, original music that resonates deeply with listeners.”
Diane Durrett, an acclaimed singer/songwriter and producer, is set to release her 10th album “Sweet Georgia Blues” with her band Soul Suga’. Featuring soulful storytelling and guest appearances, the album honors late bandmate Yonrico Scott. Recently elected as President of the Atlanta chapter of the Recording Academy, Durrett’s career is marked by notable accolades and heartfelt, spontaneous music.
“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.
Tom Craig is an accomplished Blues, Soul, and R&B artist with over 40 years of guitar playing and jazz vocals training. He has released two critically acclaimed albums, toured extensively, and earned Independent Blues Awards nominations. His third album, ‘Get to Work,’ showcases his growth and features top musicians.
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.
“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.”
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.
“Making a Scene Presents the PODCAST ‘LIVE from the Midnight Circus’ featuring Levee Town, emphasizing Indie Blues. These artists honor blues traditions while innovating new music to reflect their reality. The podcast showcases diverse talents continuing the legacy of blues with emotional integrity and creativity.”
Lemonaide, an artist-first AI music company, balances ethical AI training with top-quality music production. Lemonaide’s Collab Club lets producers train AI with their own music, ensuring artists’ fair compensation. Co-founded by MJ Jacob and Anirudh Mani, the platform aims to inspire creative collaboration and establish ethical AI standards in the music industry.
Brandon Hudspeth, a guitarist, singer, teacher, and songwriter from Oklahoma, founded Levee Town, a band with significant achievements including top placements in blues competitions and successful charting albums. Hudspeth has toured internationally, opened for renowned artists, collaborated with notable musicians, and taught guitar for over 25 years, specializing in blues.
The Gerry Casey Show #259 features an eclectic mix of rock and blues tracks, highlighting artists such as Jimi Hendrix, Status Quo, Cold Chisel, AK and the Red Kites, and ZZ Top. The playlist includes notable songs like “Angel,” “Comfortably Numb,” and “Thunderstruck,” offering listeners a diverse musical experience.
“Making a Scene’s Live from the Midnight Circus podcast highlights the future of indie blues music. Featuring diverse and innovative artists, the show celebrates the genre’s roots while embracing modern creativity. It includes performances and interviews with bands like The Name Droppers, fostering a connection with listeners through genuine, emotionally resonant music.”
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.
Andrew Knightley of AK & The Red Kites reflects on forming the band during the pandemic, inspired by the Chiltern Hills’ scenery. With producer Mike Krompass, they crafted 16 tracks blending rock, blues, country, and more. Their upcoming releases and live performances aim to offer a rich, melodic experience, poised for success in 2024 and beyond.
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.
Making a Scene presents an interview with The Name Droppers, featuring former Johnny Winter band members Bobby “T” Torello and Scott Spray. Their 2023 album “Blue Diamonds” debuted at #3 on the Roots Music Report. The band has performed widely, and members have illustrious careers, including Hall of Fame inductions and Grammy awards.
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.
The “Live from the Midnight Circus Indie Blues Double Shot Show” showcases diverse Indie Blues artists who respect the genre’s roots while innovating its future. The show features artists like Colin James, Kelly’s Lot, Amanda Fish, and others, emphasizing Blues’ living, evolving nature and emotional depth, celebrating its tradition, creativity, and impact.
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.
Vocoflex by Dreamtonics, priced at $199, is an AI-powered voice synthesis software designed for musicians, voice actors, and content creators. It offers realistic vocal performances, a user-friendly interface, and ethical safeguards. The software supports real-time voice conversion and customization, making it a versatile tool for creative applications.
“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.
