Every week our staff of CD Reviewers bring you the best in Independent CD releases. Making a Scene is considered the number 1 resource for the independent musician and the fans that love them.
Billy Thompson, an accomplished musician blending blues, rock, and funk, has performed widely across the US and internationally. His latest album, “This World,” features original songs highlighting themes of love and social commentary. With an impressive career collaborating with music legends, Thompson continues to captivate audiences with his unique sound.
The Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra, Canada’s first community-based jazz orchestra, presents “Forgotten Stories Suite,” composed by Sean Irvine. Featuring vocalist Karly Epp and narrator Quinn Greene, this project blends jazz, lyrical vocals, and poetry to explore the lives of 2SLGBTQ+ individuals, sharing their untold stories through evocative music and narratives.
James Judson’s debut album, “Songs of My Dreams,” features eleven original love songs shaped by his unique process of capturing melodies from his dreams. With the help of Grammy-winning producer Tim Sonnefeld, Judson’s soothing baritone and big band orchestration evoke nostalgia for jazz classics. This project marks his heartfelt return to music after years in construction.
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.
Ron Rieder’s album “Compositions in Blue and Other Hues” features a talented quintet exploring straight-ahead jazz and bebop. With tracks like “Dizzy Spell” and “I Sing for You,” the compositions showcase joyful melodies, elegant arrangements, and skilled instrumental performances, making listeners feel immersed in a lively jazz club atmosphere.
Duke Robillard, a two-time Grammy nominee, releases his album “Blast Off” on February 20, 2026, with Nola Blue Records. The 12-track collection showcases his versatility in blues, swing, jazz, and R&B, featuring original compositions and classic covers. Robillard highlights his enduring influence on American roots music through this celebratory work.
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.
Joe Bonamassa’s “B.B. King’s Blues Summit 100” commemorates King’s 100th birthday with contributions from 42 artists across genres. The album features 32 songs, showcasing top-notch performances from a diverse lineup, including duets and intense guitar work. Bonamassa’s tribute reflects both homage and innovation, marking a significant achievement in his career.
Ed Alstrom’s latest album, “This Idea of Humanity,” showcases his diverse musical journey, blending blues with personal reflections. He plays multiple instruments and delivers lead vocals, accompanied by notable guests. The album features themes of love, resilience, and societal issues, culminating in a heartfelt exploration of humanity’s complexities.
South Mississippi native Davey Jones will release his album “Ball Cap Blues” on January 23, 2026. The nine-track collection blends Southern and contemporary influences while honoring the Mississippi blues tradition. With varied themes and genres, Jones showcases both personal reflections and regional imagery, solidifying his unique approach to the blues.
The Dedicated Men of Zion, a sacred soul quartet from North Carolina, release their third album, “Coming Up Through the Years.” Featuring themes of faith, struggle, and perseverance, the album blends gospel and soul. Co-produced by notable musicians, it showcases the quartet’s deep familial ties and rich musical tradition spanning over 300 years.
The album “Symbiosis: Tribute to Bill Evans,” featuring the Singapore Symphony Orchestra and the Thomas Clausen Trio, showcases arrangements of Bill Evans’ compositions through six movements. Recorded live in 2023, the album blends orchestral sophistication with jazz improvisation, highlighting standout performances by various musicians, including conductor Jean Thorel and pianist Thomas Clausen.
Hugo Blouin’s fourth album “Le Buffet” merges free jazz with culinary themes, featuring recipes sung by Eugenie Jobin Tremblay. The album boasts collaboration with notable musicians, creating a vibrant and playful exploration of cooking through music. Blouin’s inventive compositions provide a unique auditory experience, blending humor, melody, and creativity.
Pat Bianchi’s album “Confluence” features his powerful organ skills alongside drummer Colin Stranahan and saxophonist Troy Roberts. The album includes innovative takes on jazz standards like “It Was a Very Good Year” and “Jitterbug Waltz.” Bianchi, a Grammy-nominated artist, showcases his individuality and connection to jazz tradition, solidifying his status in the genre.
Lena Bloch’s album “Marina” celebrates the poetry of Marina Tsvetaeva through a jazz suite featuring Kyoko Kitamura’s vocals. The compositions reflect Tsvetaeva’s resilience and struggles as an immigrant and artist. Bloch interprets Tsvetaeva’s work, highlighting its relevance today, blending dark themes with expressive melodies in this avant-garde production.
Chris Standring’s album “Time of Change,” featuring eleven new contemporary jazz tracks, draws inspiration from 1970s cool jazz. The lead single “Hollywood Hustle” will debut on February 2, 2026. Standring, influenced by Quincy Jones and the Yellowjackets, combines nostalgic melodies with modern grooves. A book showcasing his life in jazz is set for release in December 2026.
John Vanore’s “Easter Island Suite,” recorded over nearly forty years, captures the mystery surrounding the Easter Islands through a four-part musical journey. Featuring a blend of talented musicians from his ensemble Abstract Truth, the suite combines rich harmonies and evocative themes. Vanore seeks to embody the tension of unresolved historical mysteries in his compositions.
The album “What Happened There?” features improvisational artists Natsuki Tamura and Keiji Haino, recorded live at a festival curated by Tamura and his wife. Their collaboration creates a unique blend of genres, marked by spontaneous arrangements and contrasting sounds. While the duo’s instrumentation shines, the vocal elements may overshadow the music’s beauty.
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 Temple University Jazz Band, led by GRAMMY-winning trumpeter Terell Stafford, toured Japan and recorded a live album celebrating jazz culture. Their performance at Akasaka B-Flat in Tokyo featured classic Ellington pieces and showcased the talent of students, particularly drummer Maria Marmarou. The album releases on February 6, 2026.
The Baltimore Jazz Collective, founded by trumpeter Sean Jones, showcases a distinctive sound that reflects the city’s vibrant music scene. With talented members like tap dancer Brinae Ali and composers like Alex Brown and Todd Marcus, their original compositions blend blues influences and interactive performances, celebrating Baltimore’s cultural richness.
Tinsley Ellis’s “Labor of Love” showcases his distinct southern blues style, blending blistering guitar work and heartfelt vocals. Following his critically acclaimed “Naked Truth,” this album emphasizes blues, drawing inspiration from his time with blues legend Jimmy Holmes. With unique compositions and a variety of influences, Ellis continues to evolve while captivating audiences.
The trio “Elipsis,” featuring Michael League, Pedrito Martinez, and Antonio Sanchez, unites to present a fusion of West African religious chants and contemporary Cuban rhythms. Their music, rich with cultural diversity and historical significance, showcases unique instruments and modern influences. It serves as a powerful narrative of survival and legacy through rhythm and song.
Wes Smith’s album “We, The Funky – Vol 1” showcases a blend of contemporary jazz, pop, R&B, and smooth jazz. Featuring deep grooves and rich arrangements, Smith, a multi-instrumentalist, reflects on his Los Angeles journey. While initially promising funk, the album leans towards smoother sounds, with only a couple of funky tracks.
Omar Coleman and Igor Prado collaborate on the album “Old, New, Funky And Blue,” featuring a blend of original tracks and reimagined covers inspired by blues legends. With infectious grooves and soulful performances, the album showcases Coleman’s harmonica and vocals alongside Prado’s guitar work. It’s a celebration of blues tradition and contemporary sound.
Gil Livni’s album “All In” showcases his exceptional guitar skills alongside a talented quartet featuring saxophone, organ, and drums. The album includes seven original compositions and unique covers, blending jazz, funk, and blues. Notable tracks include the energetic “Wonder Woman” and the soulful “All In,” highlighting each musician’s talent.
The Dave Wilson Quartet’s album “When Even Goes East” features Dave Wilson on saxophones, with a special appearance by Lenny Castro. Inspired by his NYC cab driver days, Wilson covers 1960s and 70s pop tunes, including Jimmy Webb’s works. The album showcases original compositions with dynamic arrangements and emotive melodies.
Lucinda Williams, a Grammy-winning artist, releases her album World’s Gone Wrong on January 23, 2025, tackling socio-political issues through raw and urgent songwriting. The album features themes of struggle, resilience, division, and moral reckoning, culminating in a call to action and hope for a better future amidst turmoil.
The Lowest Pair, an American folk band, releases their seventh album, Always As Young As We’ll Ever Be, under Team Love Records. This ten-song collection explores life’s uncertainties, emphasizing themes of love, resilience, and emotional confusion. The duo, Kendl Winter and Palmer T. Lee, reflects on life’s imperfections in their heartfelt lyrics.
Roberto Fonseca and Vincent Ségal collaborate on “Nuit Parisienne À La Havane,” blending Cuban and European classical influences with contemporary jazz. Their eleven original compositions reveal storytelling through music, showcasing Fonseca’s rich piano legacy and Ségal’s versatile cello artistry. The album evokes deep emotion and cultural fusion, creating a captivating auditory journey.
Jon Irabagon’s quartet “PlainsPeak” showcases a blend of straight-ahead and avant-garde jazz, featuring musicians like trumpeter Russ Johnson and bassist Clark Sommers. The album reflects Irabagon’s deep connection to Chicago, its music, and his artistic journey, with compositions that highlight emotional depth and musical exploration.
Warren Haynes’ debut solo album, “Tales of Ordinary Madness,” released in 1993, showcases his sharp songwriting and powerful melodies, blending blues and rock. Produced by Chuck Leavell, the remastered edition features notable collaborations and profound themes, from societal issues to personal reflection, marking a timeless contribution to music over the past 33 years.
Saxophonist Kate Olson’s quartet, featuring notable guest musicians, presents a unique blend of original compositions and a cover of Alice Coltrane’s “Translinear Light.” The ensemble showcases various musical styles, from blues to contemporary grooves, delivering emotionally resonant performances. Olson’s extensive experience enhances their vibrant, innovative sound.
Erik Vincent Huey, a fourth-generation coal miner’s son from West Virginia, embodies his Appalachian roots in his music. His upcoming album, Fort Defiance, produced by Eric Ambel, features a mix of original songs and a Bob Dylan cover. With influences from cowpunk and Americana, Huey delivers authentic narratives reflecting escapism and personal experiences.
Omrum, a Copenhagen jazz quartet, produces free jazz in a renovated barn on Denmark’s Møn island. Comprised of trumpet, trombone, double bass, and drums, their ten compositions blend improvisation with written notes, showcasing each member’s unique voice. Their avant-garde sound invites listeners to explore new sonic worlds, exemplified by tracks like “Intermezzo No. 2.”
The Satoko Fujii Quartet’s “Burning Wick,” released by Libra Records, showcases Fujii’s innovative blend of jazz and contemporary classical music. After a 20-year hiatus, the quartet reunites to explore improvisation, as seen in tracks like “Solar Orbit” and “Rain in the Wee Small Hours,” where creativity and unexpected transitions flourish, highlighting their artistic freedom.
The Vancouver Jazz Orchestra collaborates with Brian Charette on a vibrant debut album featuring original jazz tunes. The ensemble highlights local talent, showcasing creative arrangements and captivating solos. Artistic Director James Danderfer successfully presents this 17-piece orchestra’s dedication to American jazz, creating an entertaining celebration of Vancouver’s musical community.
Eddie Allen’s album “Rhythm People” features a dynamic ensemble with original compositions and innovative arrangements blending various genres, including jazz, reggae, and Latin influences. Notable performances include solos from Allen and special guest Steve Turre. The album captures the essence of jazz creativity and connects deeply with listeners through its infectious rhythms.
Teresa James’ fourteenth album, “Bad at Being Good,” showcases her signature rockin’ roadhouse blues style. Featuring a talented ensemble, the album includes tracks like “Love’s a Full-Time Job” and “We Came to Rock.” With heartfelt lyrics and emotional honesty, James continues to solidify her legacy in the music industry.
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.
Alex Lopez, hailing from Cleveland, blends rock and blues through his band The Xpress. His musical journey includes several albums, showcasing original songs that reflect themes of love, hardship, and resilience. Notable releases include “Nasty Crime,” hitting number one in 2022, and “Looking for a Change” in 2023.
Stew Cutler’s upcoming album, “Undercover (Mostly),” features nine tracks, including seven covers and two originals, set for release on February 6, 2026. The album showcases Cutler’s guitar and harmonica skills alongside Bobby Harden’s vocals. Recorded in fall 2025, it offers fresh interpretations of classic songs with a blues twist.
Vance Thompson, a Grammy-nominated musician, transitioned from trumpet to vibraphone after battling a neurological disorder. His debut album “Lost and Found,” showcases his joyful compositions, featuring skilled performances by his ensemble. With a blend of swinging numbers and beautiful ballads, Thompson’s music spreads happiness and highlights his resilience and creativity.
Mattias Svensson’s album “Embrace,” featuring pianist Bill Mays and drummer Morten Lund, showcases the trio’s exceptional talents through nine original compositions. The opening track, “My Toots Toots,” captivates with its vibrant jazz waltz, while pieces like “Bluetiful” and “Erik Satir” highlight Svensson’s double bass mastery and the group’s cohesive energy, making the album a delightful experience.
Wild Blue Herons, featuring Darlene Cooper and Bill Sample, has evolved into a groove-oriented band with a new horn section. Their album showcases a blend of jazz, funky ballads, and smooth pop, highlighting their lyrical compassion and musical creativity. Both artists bring extensive experience, contributing to a contemporary, uplifting sound.
Charles Tiner, known as N’Treble, is a Chicago-born blues artist rooted in gospel music. His follow-up album, Good Soul, showcases eleven original tracks that blend soulful vocals with vibrant arrangements. Tiner’s experience as a church musician influences his powerful songwriting, making the album a compelling representation of his artistry and passion for blues.
Michael Dease’s album “Spartan Strong” showcases the MSU Jazz Trombones, highlighting their achievements in jazz music education. The project reflects Dease’s mentorship and his ambition to inspire future musicians. Featuring lively arrangements and guest artists, the album offers a blend of impressive trombone harmonies and memorable melodies throughout its tracks.
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.
The Patrick Smith trio, featuring saxophones, guitar, and drums, is a notable part of Toronto’s jazz scene. Known for their performances in a beloved bookstore, their album showcases Smith’s exploratory saxophone, blending jazz and rock influences. Each track offers unique musical experiences, highlighting the trio’s masterful improvisation and creativity.
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.