April Varner pays homage to Ella Fitzgerald in her album “Ella,” featuring both a small combo and big band. Despite her nine years of jazz experience, Varner brings an instinctive swing and impressive vocal range, collaborating with notable arrangers like Emmet Cohen and Brian Lynch. The album showcases classic pieces while asserting Varner’s own artistry.
Brian Landrus’s album “Just When You Think You Know” showcases his versatility as a composer and musician, expanding beyond his signature low-end instruments. The collection features diverse styles, from fusion to chamber music, with emotional themes reflecting past struggles. Landrus delivers captivating performances alongside a talented ensemble, redefining previous expectations.
Brian Lynch Quintet featuring Charles McPherson Torch Bearers Hollistic Music Works Bebop lives!! Torch Bearers, from fiery trumpeter Brian Lynch and living legend, alto saxophonist, 86-year-old Charles McPherson, carries on the form’s legacy. This is a luminous session that features vocalist Samara Joy on two tracks, along with the bass-drum tandem of Boris Kozlov and […]
Guitarist and vocalist John Pizarelli pays tribute to Tony Bennett in “Dear Mr. Bennett,” a jazz-infused celebration featuring favorite songs that honors Bennett’s legacy. Pizarelli showcases his unique style while maintaining the spirit of Bennett’s music, highlighted by his impressive guitar work and heartfelt vocal performances, culminating in a rich homage.
Clarinetist and saxophonist Ricky Alexander releases “Ragology,” his third album and a unique contribution to ragtime. Collaborating with Grammy-winning pianist Conal Fowkes and banjoist Jerron Paxton, the quintet explores classic ragtime pieces and blends styles. The album reflects traditional roots while showcasing exceptional musicianship, reviving a century-old genre influential to jazz.
The debut album “Back to San Francisco” by the Lazy Californians, led by Cameron Washington, fuses New Orleans brass sounds with diverse genres like hip-hop and Nigerian funk. Featuring numerous guest artists, the album delivers high energy and accessibility, showcasing rich instrumentation and a mix of party anthems and spiritual tributes.
Gregory Lewis has expanded his Organ Monk project by collaborating with vocalist Ms. Raina Welch. Blending her classical training with jazz influences, the album “Organ Monk Sings” explores themes of love and loss through Monk’s compositions, featuring lyrical contributions from notable artists. The project showcases a unique narrative suite across four acts.
Darren Litzie’s second album, “On My Own Time,” showcases his expertise as a pianist and composer. With a blend of jazz, Latin, and Caribbean influences, the album features intricate arrangements and collaborations with experienced musicians. Notable tracks highlight Litzie’s creativity and unique interpretations. The album balances accessibility with imaginative experimentation, making it an engaging listen.
Nick Justice’s seventh album, “Rain Dancing,” features collaborations with familiar musicians and introduces new textures through instruments like fiddle and banjo. Addressing themes of patience, performance, and mortality, the album blends Southern California vibes with folk influences. With introspective lyrics, it showcases Justice’s talent and may mark his breakthrough.
Kim Moberg’s fourth album, “All That Really Matters,” showcases her soothing folk music and explores themes of love, betrayal, social justice, and healing. Featuring collaborations with other artists and rich instrumentation by Grammy-nominated producer Jon Evans, the album is both melodious and impactful, emphasizing poignant lyrics and human experiences.
The Afro-Metis Nation’s album “Anthem” celebrates the 250-year heritage of Black and Indigenous people in Maritime Canada. Executive produced by Professor George Elliot Clarke, the music combines themes of oppression and perseverance, showcasing unique cultural experiences. The group advocates for recognition and challenges government injustices through their art.
Tom Paxton and John McCutcheon reunite for their album “Together Again,” expanding on their previous collaboration. Featuring fourteen tracks, the album mixes humor, nostalgia, and socially conscious themes, including gun violence. While the tone is lighter than their last effort, the duo delivers heartfelt storytelling and reflects on aging and friendship.
Diane Coll’s fifth album, Strangely in Tune, marks a sonic evolution in her intimate folk style, incorporating diverse musical influences. Inspired by Kintsugi, the album explores themes of resilience amidst life’s dualities. It features new musicians and highlights the interplay of grief and joy, culminating in a complex yet enriching listening experience.
Rick Roe’s “Wake Up Call,” featuring the music of Gregg Hill, showcases Roe’s unique arrangements of Hill’s compositions, alongside a talented quartet. With influences from Detroit’s jazz scene, Roe reimagines pieces through varied tempos and styles, emphasizing blues and post-bop elements, resulting in a vibrant, engaging album without any ballads.
Bassist Rafael Enciso’s debut album, Crossfade, features his quartet blending harmonically rich sounds influenced by his Ithaca upbringing. Produced by Dayna Stephens, its tracks explore the interplay of past and present through melodies and rhythms, creating an intriguing, relaxing listening experience. Enciso emerges as a visionary composer with this cohesive collection.
Gregory Groover Jr.’s sophomore album “Old Knew” features a stellar lineup, including vibraphonist Joel Ross and drummer Kendrick Scott. The album, emphasizing interaction among musicians, navigates themes of agitation and melody within a church-influenced soundscape. Notable tracks pay tribute to Groover’s family, showcasing his growth as a composer and leader.
Pianist Lisa Hilton’s 31st album, Extended Daydream, features jazz quintet improvisation with nine originals and two covers, including Miles Davis’s “So What” and Billie Eilish’s “Wildflower.” The album, more melancholic and reflective due to California’s wildfires, explores diverse moods and harmonic depths, calling for optimism amid adversity.
Glenn Crytzer and His Quartet’s upcoming album, “The Songbook Sessions, Vol. 1 – 1920”, features ten songs, with singles released every Friday starting October 3, 2025. The quartet, specializing in Jazz Age and Swing Era music, offers fresh renditions of classic tunes, showcasing their deep musical knowledge and connection to jazz history.
Paul Marinaro’s double album, “Mood Ellington,” showcases 25 Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn songs with inventive arrangements by thirteen respected arrangers. Marinaro’s warm baritone and masterful phrasing evoke deep emotion, creating a seamless tribute. The album’s thoughtful grouping of songs enhances its cohesiveness, marking it as a standout vocal project of the year.
Kenny Barron, an 14-time GRAMMY nominee, releases his first vocal album, “Songbook,” featuring 13 original compositions with lyrics by Janice Jarrett. The album showcases collaborations with notable contemporary jazz vocalists such as Cécile McLorin Salvant and Kurt Elling, demonstrating Barron’s artistic evolution in his later career, signaling potential accolades in the Jazz Vocal category.
Bassist-composer Jakob Dreyer releases his third album, “Roots and Things,” featuring a new quartet that includes vibraphonist Sasha Berliner. Comprising 16 tracks, the album showcases a blend of jazzy introspection and unexpected swings, highlighting inventive compositions and a unique sound. Each musician contributes distinct perspectives, creating a refreshing auditory experience.
Sean Mason’s album, A Breath of Fresh Air, showcases his deep knowledge of early jazz while exploring diverse forms. Collaborating with talented musicians, Mason emphasizes self-expression and contemporary culture. The music blends traditional sounds with modern influences, celebrating themes of resilience, connection, and self-discovery throughout various tracks, culminating in a cohesive listening experience.
Miss Emily’s album “The Medicine” showcases her powerful blues and soul vocals, blending themes of hope, community, and resilience. Produced by Colin Linden, it features nine tracks, primarily co-written by her. The songs express personal struggles, love, and survival, with an emphasis on unity and overcoming adversity, ultimately delivering an empowering message.
Emmylou Harris’s live album Spyboy, originally performed with a slimmed-down band, showcases a harder edge compared to the ethereal Wrecking Ball. This reissue includes five unreleased tracks and highlights the dynamic performances of Harris and her band, emphasizing improvisation and emotion. Fans are encouraged to explore this remastered gem.
The Raphael Pannier Quartet collaborates with Khadim Niang’s Sabar Group, merging jazz with Senegalese sabar drumming for a groundbreaking live album from the Saint Louis International Jazz Festival. This unique fusion honors master drummer Doudou N’Diaye Rose and features reimagined jazz classics, showcasing cultural intersections in music and community spirit.
Tom Ollendorff is a prominent emerging guitarist in the UK jazz scene, set to tour with pianist Aaron Parks and his band in March 2024. Ollendorff’s album, “Where in the World,” features nine self-composed tracks blending jazz and classical influences, showcasing lyrical melodies and dynamic interactions with his bandmates.
Anthony Stanco’s album “In the Groove – Live at the Alluvion” revitalizes hard bop in northern Michigan, showcasing energetic performances with a quintet that includes local talent. Recorded at The Alluvion, the album blends Stanco’s originals with classic inspirations, engaging an enthusiastic audience and celebrating jazz traditions while infusing personal touches.
Dave Keyes’ latest album, “Two Trains,” showcases his signature blend of blues, soul, and rock, celebrating resilience amidst personal loss, particularly the death of his wife. Featuring collaborations with notable artists, the album presents original material that emphasizes positivity and life’s choices, urging listeners to embrace joy over sorrow.
Mike Casey’s “The Complete Public Access: WPAA TV Session” features his seasoned tenor sax trio in a vibrant 25-minute performance, now full-length with two new tracks. The session blends diverse influences and showcases their chemistry, recognized with an Amazon Music award. Casey’s move to Los Angeles is anticipated to enhance his career further.
Mark Miller’s album This Bridge showcases his talent as an Americana artist, featuring vivid narratives and poignant lyrics. Collaborating with renowned musicians, Miller explores themes of memory, heartbreak, and resilience. Notable tracks highlight personal experiences and evoke strong emotional imagery, affirming Miller’s status in contemporary music. This is a standout release of the year.
Joselyn Wilkinson and Don Barrozo return with “Lost & Found Highway,” their third album, reflecting their journey through memories, protests, and personal challenges. Collaborating with notable musicians, they combine powerful vocals and skilled guitar work while addressing themes of love, roots, and social issues, culminating in a message of resilience and affirmation.
Bill Scorzari’s double album, “Sidereal Days (Day 1),” showcases his literate songwriting and unique sound. Featuring personal and emotional tracks, it blends various musical elements with deeply reflective lyrics. Collaborating with top musicians, Scorzari’s distinctive voice enhances each piece, inviting listeners to engage fully with the music over multiple listens.
Luther Dickinson’s “Dead Blues Vol 1.” reinterprets classic blues songs with a unique blend of Memphis funk and jazz, diverging from traditional blues styles. Featuring Datrian Johnson’s jazz-influenced vocals, the album showcases innovative arrangements of tracks by renowned artists, reflecting a creative evolution inspired by influences from the Grateful Dead.
Mike Miz, a singer-songwriter and guitarist, moved from Northeast Pennsylvania to Nashville, collaborating with notable musicians on his album “Sometimes by Surprise.” This effort features a live band recording and showcases Miz’s songwriting skills across various themes like youth, love, and environmental concerns. The album includes seven standout tracks and a cover of Jim Croce’s “I Got a Name.”
Harold Lopez-Nussa’s “Nueva Timba,” his second Blue Note album, reflects his journey through grief and adaptation after relocating to France. Featuring his long-time quartet and guest musicians, the album blends traditional Cuban rhythms with modern influences. Its tracks showcase a dynamic range of emotions and musical styles, distinctively interpreting contemporary Cuban music.
Wesley Hanna’s album “Magnolia,” self-released, reflects his Texas roots with authentic country music. Featuring 15 collaborators, it includes emotive tracks about youth and family. Highlights include “Gulf Prairie Blues,” “Life in Three Quarter Time,” and a cover of “Magnolia.” Hanna shows promise, echoing influences from renowned Texas songwriters.
Eddie Daniels’ album “To Milton With Love,” produced by Resonance Records, pays homage to Brazilian icon Milton Nascimento. Collaborating with top L.A. musicians, Daniels showcases Nascimento’s influential works through various instruments. The project blends rich arrangements with emotional narratives, marking a heartfelt tribute that resonates deeply with jazz and Brazilian music aficionados.
Dara Starr Tucker’s latest album, “Time Wouldn’t Wait,” is her third solo release, blending original compositions with classic songs. Featuring exceptional musicians, Tucker explores themes of time, memories, and living in the present with her emotive vocals. The album showcases an impressive production quality, inviting repeated listens for its introspective nature.
Mark Winkler HOLD ON Cafe Pacific Vocalist and lyricist Mark Winkler returns with his 22nd album, HOLD ON. This is the tenth album produced by his colleague, Barbara Brighton, and finds Winkler penning the lyrics for seven of these eleven tracks. Winkler has a storied history of attracting great musicians, especially pianists, reaching higher than […]
Bilingual vocalist Lauren Henderson’s album “Sonidos” features 17 tracks blending African Diaspora and Latin American music influences. With warm vocals and a talented backing band, she explores themes of love, resilience, and celebration. The collection balances jazz standards with Latin-infused tunes, showcasing her cultural roots and musical evolution.
Alexa Tarantino’s album, The Roar and the Whisper, features her finest lineup yet, including notable musicians and guest artists. With a mix of her compositions and works from others, the album explores the duality of human reactions. Tarantino showcases her talent across various instruments, delivering high-energy performances throughout the collection.
Rico Jones, a spiritually inclined tenor saxophonist, makes his New York City debut with “Bloodlines,” recorded live in August 2024. His music blends diverse cultural influences and features a suite of five parts reflecting personal and ancestral themes. The quartet’s dynamic performance showcases Jones’s impressive talent in spiritual jazz.
Lafayette Gilchrist’s 2023 album “Move with Love,” features his ensemble New Volcanoes, blending various musical styles. The joyful recording, performed at Club Car, emphasizes love in turbulent times. Notable tracks include “Cut Through the Chase” and “Bamboozled,” showcasing his influential jazz roots and determination to connect through music.
Yosef Gutman Levitt’s album “Shir Yedidot” showcases his soothing and spiritual music, blending traditional Chabad nigunim with original compositions. Featuring notable musicians like Yonathan Avishai and Yagel Haroush, the album creates accessible melodies that appeal beyond cultural boundaries, inviting listeners to experience its calming beauty throughout.
Art Hirahara’s album “Peace Unknown” features a four-horn septet, primarily shaped by producer Marc Free’s vision. The compositions blend homage and innovation, reflecting varied moods and complex harmonies. Notable tracks include ballads and dynamic pieces, showcasing collaborative arrangements and improvisation, ultimately demonstrating the spontaneous creativity of the ensemble.
Theon Cross’s live album, “Affirmations: Live at Blue Note NYC,” showcases his dynamic tuba performances infused with elements from various genres like hip-hop and reggae. With an energetic band, including Isaiah Collier and Nikos Ziarkas, Cross delivers a vibrant and unconventional jazz experience, filled with intricate solos and spontaneous grooves. It’s a compelling contribution to contemporary jazz.
Allan Harris’s second live album, “The Poetry of Jazz: Live at Blue Llama,” showcases his remarkable ability to blend jazz, poetry, and original compositions. Featuring renowned poets and classic pieces, Harris delivers emotive performances, demonstrating his deep connection to Harlem’s history and his artistic versatility. The album is a profound exploration of themes like love and resistance.
“Standard Deviation” is the second album by drummer Mike Clark and saxophonist Mike Zilber, featuring a New York ensemble. The quartet reimagines jazz standards and classics with innovative arrangements, challenging yet inviting. Highlights include “Blues for Chambers” and a funky “Hallelujah.” The album captures a blend of tradition and fresh interpretations.
From the Dirt, a bluegrass band from Central Maryland, blends genres with rich vocal harmonies and introspective songwriting. Fronted by Daniel Kenny, their album “Colored Edge of Memory” explores themes of heartache and resilience through varied instrumentation. Notable tracks range from haunting ballads to upbeat tunes, showcasing their musical versatility.
Pianist Charles Chen’s album “Building Characters” explores character portraits in jazz, paying tribute to influential musicians. Each track evokes a musician and fictional character, blending styles from Duke Ellington to modern influences. The ensemble features prominent artists, delivering passionate solos and indelible melodies, fulfilling jazz tradition while celebrating Asian-American Heritage Month.
