Andrew Wilcox, a Hartford-based pianist and composer, debuts with “Dear Mr. Hill,” an album honoring his mentors and experiences. Featuring original compositions and jazz interpretations like “Stella by Starlight,” Wilcox’s work highlights his creativity and emotional depth. Supported by veterans Avery Sharpe and Yoron Israel, this album showcases a promising talent.
Karen Stachel’s album “A Whim and a Prayer” showcases her flute performances in imaginative jazz arrangements of holiday classics. Notable tracks include “Let It Snow,” “Angels Have You Heard on High,” and “Mary Did You Know?” Featuring contributions from various skilled musicians, this album brings a festive and cozy atmosphere, perfect for winter evenings.
Jonathan Powell’s “Mambo Jazz Party” on Label Circle 9 features energetic, modern Latin jazz with dynamic arrangements by Powell. Tracks like “Juancito,” “Hope,” and “You’re Everything” showcase his prowess in blending percussive intensity, smooth jazz elements, and harmonious vocals. This lively album exemplifies Powell’s talent as an arranger, composer, and trumpeter.
Miguel Zenón’s “Golden City” is a sweeping musical suite representing San Francisco’s demographics and political evolution. Incorporating California history, the album features a brass and rhythm section nonet. Each composition, like “Sacred Land” and “Acts of Exclusion,” showcases intricate solos and cultural themes. The album launches on August 30, 2024.
Making a Scene Presents Turn it up with Gerry Casey show #261 features guest Retro Kings along with a diverse lineup including Santiago Perrotti & The Soul Movers, The Blues Chapter, Johnny & The Drivers, Eddie Angel, Jamie Williams & The Roots Collective, Bex Marshall, and many other artists. The show highlights various tracks like “I Don’t Need No Doctor,” “Addicted To Love,” and “Hands of Jesus.”
Raul Midón’s album “Lost & Found” blends jazz, folk, pop, and soft rock, showcasing his multifaceted talent as a composer, singer, guitarist, and multi-instrumentalist. Inspired by Stevie Wonder, Midón’s work includes powerful lyrics and impressive musical arrangements, with standout tracks like “Lost & Found,” “Next Time,” and “Ocean of Doubt.”
“Live from the Midnight Circus” features Indie Blues artists like Christopher Wyze and the Tellers, showcasing the diversity and innovation of modern blues music. The podcast celebrates the roots and evolution of blues, highlighting musicians who create original, emotionally resonant music while honoring past blues traditions. Tune in to the Indie Blues Movement.
“PROTEST – A Revolutionary Rock Opus” honors women activists who made significant impacts across various causes such as civil rights, climate change, and more. Originating after George Floyd’s murder, it features new and classic protest songs by numerous artists and aims to inspire societal change through music during COVID-19.
Catherine Russell and Sean Mason’s album “My Ideal” on Dot Time Records refreshes historic songs with modern flair. Russell’s persuasive vocals and Mason’s emotive piano create an intimate musical dialogue. The album features a blend of blues, ballads, and classic tunes, showcasing their artistry and bringing vintage music to the contemporary stage.
Gerry Casey interviews Kyle John Suckling of The Retro Kings, highlighting Kyle’s exceptional vocal talent reminiscent of iconic singers like Ian Gillan and Ozzy Osbourne. Teaming up with Errol Andrew, Kyle formed Retro Kings, delivering outstanding classic rock performances. Experience their remarkable musical synergy and powerful vocals firsthand.
Neil Adler’s album “Emi’s Song” features original compositions and jazz standards, showcasing his talents on piano and chromatic harmonica. Accompanied by Jeff Buenz, Carlitos Medrano, and Akira Tana, the music blends various styles and highlights each musician’s proficiency. Notable tracks include “Bésame Mucho,” “Blues for McCoy,” and “Donna Lee.”
Jake Noble’s debut album, “Letting Go of a Dream,” tells a musical story of self-discovery in a digitized world. His quintet delivers varied tunes, but the mix often diminishes Noble’s bass presence. Inspired compositions showcase his potential, though some solos, particularly by Dominguez, could be more balanced. Noble’s journey in jazz looks promising.
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.
