making a Scene

Art Baden’s album, “How Much of it is Real?”, features a talented ensemble that includes tenor saxophonist Baden, bassist Jay Anderson, drummer Jeff “Tain” Watts, and vibraphonist Joe Locke. The compositions explore themes of life cycles and emotional challenges stemming from personal losses, with tracks like “Chaotic Neutral” and “Animal Intelligence” showcasing deep creativity during turbulent times.

Phil Haynes’ trio, Duke & Strays, showcases their latest album, Day Dream, blending traditional jazz with modernist elements of Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn. Featuring a mix of well-known and obscure tracks, the trio’s unique style combines playful spontaneity with delicate interpretations, highlighting resilience and artistry from its seasoned members.

Diana Panton’s “Soft Winds and Roses” features her smooth vocals covering pop classics. With a blend of familiar tunes like “Your Song” and intimate arrangements, she showcases her emotional depth. Despite being labeled a jazz singer, her repertoire leans towards pop, reflecting her strong fan base and numerous accolades.

Andrew Hill Sextet Plus Ten’s “A Beautiful Day, Revisited” showcases Andrew Hill’s genius through enhanced live recordings from his Birdland performances in 2002. The double disc features original compositions and improvisational depth, highlighting Hill’s legacy in modern jazz and his exceptional skills as a composer and pianist.

Kristin Korb’s album “Sweet Dreams” creatively reinterprets Eurythmics’ songs through jazz arrangements, showcasing her talents as a bassist, vocalist, and arranger. Drawing inspiration from fan favorites and Eurythmics’ catalog, Korb transforms iconic tracks into captivating jazz pieces, celebrating both the original music and her own artistry in a male-dominated genre.

Maria Schafer’s album “Here For You” showcases her jazzy compositions, including original songs and arrangements. Accompanied by talented musicians, the album features lively tracks like “You Said It” and “Release Me.” Schafer, an emerging vocalist and songwriter, continues to impress with her creativity and unique style, promising a bright future in music.

The Visions Jazz Ensemble, led by Sam Butler and Garrett Fasig, presents a unique album featuring modern jazz arrangements of college fight songs. With notable contributions from musicians like Wycliffe Gordon, the project blends historical melodies with contemporary jazz, showcasing the evolution of the genre while celebrating its roots.

Randy Hoexter’s album “Tomorrowsville” showcases contemporary jazz with classical influences, featuring a talented ensemble. Notable tracks include “Rosetta Stone,” blending North African rhythms, and “The Dragonfly,” evoking flight. Hoexter’s tribute to Horace Silver, “Argentum,” shines with intricate horn lines, while “Diaspora” and “Particle Accelerator” emphasize rhythmic vitality and hope.

Margaret Slovak and Chris Maresh create soothing music with nylon string guitar and acoustic bass, emphasizing harmony and warmth. Their album features traditional holiday tunes alongside unique arrangements, aiming to provide comfort and peace. The duo’s synergy offers a fresh interpretation of familiar songs, making it perfect for seasonal gatherings.

Zach Adleman’s debut album features a talented ensemble with Adleman on drums and composition, producing a blend of powerful melodies and grooves. The tracks reflect personal narratives and landscapes, showcasing improvisation and instrumental highlights. With compelling arrangements, the album is a testament to excellence in contemporary jazz.

The Joymakers’ album “Down Where the Bluebonnets Grow” showcases a vibrant blend of New Orleans jazz, traditional jazz, and bluegrass influences. Musicians like Colin Hancock and Lauryn Gould deliver lively performances, recalling the nostalgic sounds of the 1920s and 1930s. The music is joyful and engaging, providing a fresh appreciation for this under-recorded genre.

Pete Rodriguez’s debut album, “I’m Pete Rodriguez Vol. 1,” showcases his fierce identity and musical prowess as a trumpeter and composer. It features nine original tracks blending defiance, empathy, and personal reflections, addressing his struggles as a son of a salsero, military veteran, and educator. The quintet’s collaboration highlights diverse compositions and emotional depth.

Samara Joy’s album “Portrait” showcases her vocal talent and lyricism, featuring a mix of Latin arrangements and innovative compositions. Her unique approach shines through in tracks like “Reincarnation of A Lovebird.” The album highlights her growth as an artist, revealed by heartfelt lyrics and collaborative energy with her skilled band.

Dwayne Clemons’ album “Center of Gravity: Live at Smalls” features a talented ensemble celebrating his three-decade connection to Smalls club. His early musical influences shaped his journey, leading to a tumultuous past, including prison time. Now based in Copenhagen, this album showcases his exceptional talent in a heartfelt homecoming.

Edison Herbert’s album “All I Need” features a blend of original compositions and covers, including “My Cherie Amour.” The smooth jazz style showcases Herbert’s guitar prowess but lacks a strong drumming backbone. While the original tracks are engaging, a more supportive production could elevate Herbert’s notable talent further.

Thollem McDonas’s album “Infinite-Sum Game,” a solo piano performance recorded live in Palermo, celebrates his eclectic musical journey. Spanning 60 minutes, it blends classical, jazz, and experimental genres, showcasing dynamic comprovisations. Each piece explores varied emotions and techniques, culminating in a thrilling auditory adventure that highlights McDonas’s unique approach to music.

Geof Bradfield’s tenth album, “Colossal Abundance,” features a 12-piece ensemble performing his original compositions alongside works by jazz greats. Drawing inspiration from the mbira music of Zimbabwe, Bradfield incorporates African rhythms and spiritual themes, showcasing his mastery of woodwinds. The album blends cultural richness with imaginative arrangements, reflecting deep musical exploration.

“Sanctuary,” the second co-led album by violinist Jason Anick and pianist Jason Yeager, blends European classical and American jazz, reflecting personal evolution during chaotic times. The duo authored half the tracks, showcasing creativity and emotional depth. Featuring talented musicians, the album strikes a compelling balance between sensitivity and vibrant improvisation.

Randy Ingram’s trio album, “Aries Dance,” showcases his melodic and harmonic prowess alongside bassist Drew Gress and drummer Billy Hart. The album features subtle compositions influenced by notable pianists and incorporates Brazilian and Portuguese elements. With thoughtful interpretations of standards, Ingram delivers a captivating listening experience that stands out in the genre.

Swedish trumpeter Erik Palmberg’s new CD “Faces” has topped Sweden’s jazz charts, showcasing the quartet’s strong musical connection since 2018. The album features original compositions, blending various styles. With standout performances from each member, it highlights Palmberg’s unique voice in jazz, though some tracks lack rhythmic drive.

Steve Coleman and Five Elements’ album PolyTropos/Of Many Turns showcases an extraordinary level of improvisation and interconnectivity within the band. Their unique setup fosters intense communication, allowing for spontaneous creativity rooted in various musical styles. Inspired by diverse concepts, Coleman’s work presents a fresh, accessible approach to avant-garde jazz, defining their sound.