CD Reviews on projects by Jazz artists
Lakecia Benjamin’s live album “Phoenix Reimagined” captures the energy of her Brooklyn concert at “The Bunker.” Featuring compositions from her Grammy-nominated “Phoenix” album and new songs, it blends jazz with hip-hop and spoken word. Inspired by John Coltrane, Benjamin’s performance and her all-star ensemble promote peace, unity, and love through their music.
Kiki Valera’s “Vacilón Santiaguero” is a vibrant album featuring an array of talented musicians and joyous, dance-inducing tracks. With strong vocals and spirited rhythms, the music celebrates Cuban culture. Valera, a veteran of La Familia Valera Miranda, delivers an album that transcends language barriers, exuding energy and joy, reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil.
Hyeseon Hong Jazz Orchestra’s album “Things Will Pass” is masterfully composed, showcasing a unique synthesis of Korean culture with American jazz. Each track, from “Road to Hana” to “We Will Meet Again,” features captivating solos and melodies, reflecting Hong’s innovative arrangements and the orchestra’s exceptional talent. Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil.
Andromeda Turre’s album “From the Earth” merges spoken word with diverse musical elements, highlighting environmental activism and global unity. The tracks, enriched by master musicians, reflect her personal and profound connection with nature, inspired by a transformative trip to Iceland. This album intertwines impactful messages and innovative compositions, seeking connectivity and togetherness.
Milton Suggs’ new album “Pure Intention” is a stripped-down jazz project featuring just Suggs and pianist Michael King. The album, rooted in blues, soul, and jazz, is Suggs’ first since 2016. His powerful baritone and dynamic range shine through original compositions and reinterpretations of classics, making this a standout vocal album.
MONIKA HERZIG’S SHEROES: ALL IN GOOD TIME album features all-women band members, led by pianist and composer Monika Herzig. The album pays homage to Chick Corea and explores various compositions, including jazz and an arrangement of Beyoncé’s “(Girls) Run the World.” It highlights Herzig’s piano skills but suggests need for better arrangements.
Sharon Isbin and Amjad Ali Khan’s album “LIVE IN ASPEN” showcases a fusion of Flamenco guitar and Indian classical music. Isbin’s solo pieces celebrate Francisco Tarrega, while collaborative tracks with sarod players capture cultural and spiritual themes like “Sacred Evening” and “Romancing Earth.” This unique blend enchants with emotional and contemplative improvisations.
The Christopher Zuar Orchestra’s album “Exuberance” features compositions by Zuar and showcases a remarkable ensemble of musicians. Highlights include Drew Gress’s inspired bass solo in “In Winter Blooms” and Glenn Zaleski’s piano brilliance in “Communion.” The album reflects Zuar’s personal growth and emotional journey, enhanced by Anne Beal’s artistic contributions.
Nancy and Spencer Reed’s album “Happying” features their unique jazz vocal duo. Embracing bebop roots, they blend harmonies brilliantly, covering classics from “Cheerful Little Earful” to “Whisper Not”, and even adding a jazzy twist to Chicago’s “Does Anybody Really Know What Time It Is?”. Their musical chemistry and talented band create a refreshing, nostalgic experience.
Gregory Goodloe, a Denver-based smooth jazz guitarist, collaborates with producer Michael Broening on his new single “Groovin’ On,” the first release from an upcoming album. Known for his Billboard No. 1 hit “Stylin’,” Goodloe aims to blend a pleasant sound with an infectious groove, accompanied by notable musicians.
Jesus Molina, a 27-year-old multi-instrumentalist and Latin Grammy Cultural Function Award winner, released an album titled “Selah,” meaning “Praise.” Inspired by piano legends, Molina showcases his unique style and composition skills across various instruments. His spiritual, dynamic music captivates listeners, with notable contributions from prominent musicians. Billy Childs praises Molina’s virtuosity.
Karen Mack’s album “Catch & Keep” features jazz standards and original songs, intended initially as a gift for her mother-in-law. The project evolved into a full album showcasing Mack’s versatile vocals. The album includes contributions from renowned musicians and highlights Mack’s ability to swing, evoke nostalgia, and blend genres.
Michael Pagán’s album “Paganova” showcases his quintet’s dexterous creativity through tracks like “Burn it Forward” and “Guess Who’s Blues.” The ensemble, featuring saxophones, bass, and drums, delivers energetic solos and harmonies. Louie Pagán, Michael’s son, contributes significantly. The album’s diverse and warm compositions offer a comforting musical embrace.
Janel Leppin and Anthony Pirog’s “New Moon in the Evil Age” consists of two albums: an instrumental and a vocal one. Their work blends cello, guitar, and various instruments, delivering both ambient and dramatic pieces. Leppin’s Ensemble Volcanic Ash offers a political, intense set performed by a sextet. All three albums showcase extraordinary versatility and musical talent.
Frank London’s album “Spirit Stronger Than Blood,” released by ESP-Disk, honors friends lost to blood diseases and cancer. Featuring The Elders, the album blends spiritual jazz with post-bop, inspired by notable jazz figures and personal experiences. Highlights include dedications to Lester Bowie, Jewlia Eisenberg, and Ron Miles, showcasing emotional depth and musical intensity.
Steve Turre’s first live album, “Sanyas,” recorded at Smoke Jazz Club, showcases his talents on trombone and shells. Featuring an elite sextet, the album includes two Turre compositions, a piece by Lee Morgan, and two standards. Highlights include Turre’s remarkable shell performances and strong contributions from Nicholas Payton, Ron Blake, and Isaiah J. Thompson.
Ray Brown’s Great Big Band celebrates 27 years with the album “I Could Write A Book” on Summit Records. Featuring Ray Brown and a talented ensemble, the two-disc set includes 21 big band jazz tracks, mixing classics like “Spring is Here” with Christmas songs. Ray Brown, a multi-talented bandleader, showcases his exceptional arrangements and the band’s versatility.
Erik Friedlander’s “Dirty Boxing” is a jazz album inspired by Mixed Martial Arts, featuring the same quartet from his previous album, A Queen’s Firefly. With tracks like “Shrimping” and “Submission,” it highlights intense improvisation and teamwork. The CD version includes a bonus project, Floating City, with ethereal melodies.
David Bixler, an alto saxophonist and composer, resumed his music career in 2016 after a 12-year hiatus due to his son’s health issues. His discography includes albums like “In the Face of Chaos” and “Inside the Grief.” In 2023, he released “Beatitude.” Bixler is also Director of Jazz Studies at Bowling Green State University and a podcast host.
The album “ALL ABOARD – VOL. 1: DEPARTURES” by Telavana, led by flautist Itai Kriss, blends jazz with Middle Eastern, North African, and Latin influences. Featuring notable artists and special guest Amos Hoffman, the compositions offer vibrant, energetic, and culturally rich music. Reviewer Dee Dee McNeil praises its eclectic fusion and improvisational freedom.
Bruna Black’s compelling vocals and John Finbury’s Brazilian-influenced music come together in the album “Va Revelacco.” After auditioning for “The Voice Brazil,” Black fast-tracked her career, forming the successful duo “Avua.” Introduced by producer Emilio D. Miller, their collaboration features renowned musicians and embodies fresh, provocative Brazilian jazz.
Carl Clements’ album “A Different Light” features nine original jazz compositions, blending saxophones and North Indian bansuri flute. Highlights include Chase Morris’ tension-building piano solo, Bruno Råberg’s growling bass lines, and Gen Yoshimura’s dynamic drumming. The quartet’s youthful and energetic sound showcases their talent and impressive originality. Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil.
Paul Carlon’s sixth album, “Blues for Vita,” features eight tracks, five of which are original compositions. The quintet, including Eddie Allen, Helio Alves, Harvie S., and Willie Martinez, creates a dynamic, blues-influenced jazz experience. Standout tracks include “Dee Dot,” “Colored Paper,” and covers like “Never Never Will I Marry,” showcasing inventive arrangements and energetic performances.
Mike Holober & The Gotham Jazz Orchestra’s double album “This Rock We’re On: Imaginary Letters” showcases Holober’s compositions celebrating America’s landscapes. Opening with “Lay of the Land,” a Chris Potter solo, it features a blend of jazz arrangements. The suite, with standout tracks “On this Rock” and “Dirt Lovers Almanac,” emphasizes melodic beauty and intricate orchestration.
Sarah Hanahan makes a notable debut on the Blue Engine label with “Among Giants,” showcasing her impressive skills on the alto saxophone. Backed by a seasoned rhythm section, she blends tradition and innovation through a mix of originals and standards. Highlights include the standout track “NATO” and her expressive renditions of jazz classics, marking her as a promising new voice in jazz.
Chance Hayden’s “Baritone Gold,” released through Peace House Music, is a ’60s-inspired organ trio album. It features Hayden’s baritone guitar and incorporates jazz, soul, and blues with standout tracks like “Bank On Me” and “Carolina Summers.” The album showcases relentless energy and impressive interplay among band members, creating a distinctive retro vibe.
The Tomasz Stanko Quartet’s 2004 concert in Munich, led by virtuoso trumpeter Stanko with his talented Polish mentees, showcased dynamic and emotive performances. Highlights include “Hermento’s Mood” and “Song for Sarah,” with notable solos from bassist Slawomir Kurkiewicz and drummer Michal Miskiewicz. The release captures Stanko’s lasting influence on European jazz.
“Reflection in Two Shades,” produced by Lee McKinney, features original compositions blending bebop and modern jazz. The album highlights McKinney’s drumming and compositional talents, with standout performances by Matt Cooper on piano, Chris Berg on bass, and Greg Abate on saxophone. Dee Dee McNeil praises its melodic mastery and timeless quality.
Brian Landrus, renowned for his mastery of low woodwinds, collaborates with Dave Stryker, Jay Anderson, and Billy Hart to celebrate Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn’s compositions. Featuring diverse instruments, Landrus infuses these classics with rich, unique textures. This project includes standout tracks like “A Flower is a Lovesome Thing” and “Daydream.”
The “Patrick Wolff Quintet” album “Bay Blue” showcases Wolff’s skill on alto and tenor saxophones and features original compositions like “Cool Stones” and “Some of Frank’s Things.” The quintet boasts dynamic performances from Keith Saunders, Eric Markowitz, Evan Hughes, and Mike Olmos. Wolff, an experienced jazz musician and educator, delivers a spirited, bebop-inspired production.
Anthony Branker’s album “Songs My Mom Liked” is a heartfelt tribute to his mother, incorporating selections she reacted to during car rides. Featuring a stellar ensemble, the music blends spirituality with groove-oriented pieces, and includes three new tracks. The album celebrates life with accessibility and an emotional connection, marked by recurrent themes of faith and remembrance.
Dun-Dun Band’s debut vinyl release, “Pita Parka Pt. 1: Xam Egdub,” is a collection of three experimental tracks. Their sound blends American minimalism, jazz, and electronics, characterized by repetitive loops and improvisations. While creative, some might find the repetitiveness tedious. Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil.
“Mariah Parker & The Indo Latin Jazz Ensemble’s album ‘Windows Through Time’ features seven easy-listening jazz compositions. Highlights include the title track with beautiful soprano vocals and saxophone solos, ‘Sol de Barcelona’ with a Middle Eastern flair, and ‘Espiritu Samba’ incorporating Afro-Cuban rhythms. The ensemble blurs Latin and Smooth Jazz styles.”
Jazz vocalist Lisa Rich returns with “Long As You’re Living,” her fourth album after a long hiatus due to illness. Co-produced by Jay Clayton, it features Marc Copland, Drew Gress, and Dave Ballou, focusing on standards and original pieces. The album highlights Rich’s adventurous scatting and intimate vocal delivery, dedicated to Clayton’s memory.
THE STEVE LUCIANO QUARTET UNDER THE COVERS Independent Release Steve Luciano, guitar; Mike Avila, piano; Charlie Siva, bass; Walt Hubbard, drums; Dan Jordan, Saxophone/flute. The Steve Luciano Quartet opens with the very familiar Duke Pearson tune, “Chant.” There’s a note on the CD cover that says this tune was inspired by a performance of the […]
Drummer and composer Matt Wilson forms a new quintet, Good Trouble, inspired by John Lewis’s legacy and his 60th birthday. The album, dedicated to notable figures like Carla Bley and Geri Allen, features a diverse mix of compositions and covers, emphasizing both traditional and avant-garde jazz. Notable tracks include the “Good Trouble Suite,” honoring Lewis and Ginsburg, and covers of Coleman and Denver. The quintet, marked by Wilson’s versatile style, delivers an uplifting, joyful album.
Kenny Reichert’s album “Switch” features intricate melodies and creative compositions performed by a talented ensemble, including Ethan Philion, Devin Drobka, Lenard Simpson, Geof Bradfield, and Alyssa Allgood. Known for his inventive guitar style, Reichert collaborates with Allgood on poetic songs and lifts arrangements with his solos, spotlighting each musician’s artistry.
Phil Haynes 4 Horns & What? The Complete American Recordings (3 CDs) Corner Store Jazz Having read with much fascination Phil Haynes memoir, Chasing the Masters: First Takes of a Modern Drumming Artist, a forthcoming issuance of recordings from his band 4 Horns & What? seemed inevitable. For anyone who wants a better understanding of […]
Tom Collier’s “Boomer Vibes – Vol 2” showcases his extensive musical talents, playing multiple instruments, often as a one-man band, with occasional guest musicians. The album features covers of classic songs from the ’60s and ’70s, but sometimes lacks the spontaneity of live performances. A nod to composers like Jagger, McCartney, and Webb.
Something Else! Soul Jazz Featuring Vincent Herring Smoke Sessions Having witnessed a live performance by the collective Something Else! a little over a year ago at Exit Zero Jazz Festival, this album comes with anticipation. That’s because the soul jazz genre is not often heard much these days. It’s like traditional blues; we grew up […]
Etienne Charles’ “Creole Orchestra Featuring René Marie” fuses Caribbean influences with big band jazz, reflecting his Trinidadian heritage and memories of American music played on Trinidadian radio. The album features diverse tracks including originals, covers, and collaborations, showcasing Charles’ skill as a composer and arranger on an 80-minute, multi-artist journey.
Matthew Whitaker On Their Shoulders: An Organ Tribute MOCAT If you’ve ever attended a Matthew Whitaker show, you know that the young pianist/organist/drummer Matthew Whitaker has a more than engaging rapport with his audience. They are often on their feet dancing from his first few notes. Whitaker is still only 23 years old and has […]
Olivia Foschi’s album “A Window Within” delivers unique, captivating jazz with her original compositions and expressive vocals. Notable tracks include “Caught Me by Surprise,” “Pieces of Central Park,” and “Live With It.” Foschi’s versatile voice and the talented band create a contemporary, refreshing sound with Brazilian influences. Each song invites listeners into her emotional journey.
YUKO ITO SEDUZIR Funny Baby Face Records New York Yuko Ito, vocals; Helio Alves, piano; Edward Perez, bass; Alexandre Kautz, drums/percussion; Willie Ruiz, percussions/vocals; Romero Lubambo, guitar; Steve Wilson, alto saxophone; Vanessa Falabella, vocals. Yuko Ito is a Tokyo-born vocalist who has a deep appreciation for Brazilian music and jazz. She is fluent in Portuguese […]
John Escreet the epicenter of your dreams Blue Room Music John Escreet’s 2022 trio album Seismic Shift (covered here) was so bold and impactful that it likely made it difficult to return with the trio and produce a similarly startling result. Pianist and composer Escreet was wise enough to recognize this and although returning with […]
RADAM SCHWARTZ SAXOPHONE QUARTET MUSIC Arabesque Records Radam Schwartz, composer/arranger; Marcus G. Miller, soprano saxophone; Irwin Hall, alto saxophone; Anthony Ware, tenor saxophone; Max Schweiger, baritone saxophone. GUEST ARTISTS: Micha Josephs, guitar; Carrie Jackson, vocals; Andrew Atkinson, percussion. Radam Schwartz is well-known in the jazz world as a jazz organist. His recordings as a bandleader […]
SERGIO PEREIRA BOSSA + Tiger Turn, LLC Sergio Pereira, voice/guitars/violão/percussion/composer/arranger/producer; Luis Guerra, piano/keyboards; Ariel Ramirez, electric bass; Mauricio Zottarelli, drums/percussion/arranger/co-producer; Chipi Chacon, trumpet/flugelhorn. SPECIAL GUESTS on “One for Pat”: Romero Lumbambo, violão; Ivan ‘Melon’ Lewis, piano; Ivan Ruiz Machado, bass; Jose San Martin, drums. Still smiling from his 2024 win of the World Entertainment Award […]
THE BRUCE LOFGREN GROUP INSTRUMENTAL ADVENTURES: EARTHLY AND COSMIC TALES Night Bird Records Bruce Lofgren, acoustic & electric guitars/composer; Billy Hulting, hand percussion instruments; Craig Fundiga, vibraphone; Randy Landas, acoustic, electric & fretless basses; Hope Easton, cello; Geoff Nudell, B flat clarinet. This production reminds me of the Pan Pipe projects. It reflects the original […]
ALLEGRA LEVY OUT OF THE QUESTION SteepleChase Records Allegra levy, vocals/lyricist/composer; Carmen Staaf, piano/Fender Rhodes; Mimi Jones, bass; Allison Miller, drums/shaker; Roxy Coss, tenor & soprano saxophones; Andrew Baird, guitar/ukulele; Aubrey Johnson, background vocals. “Are You Real?” is a tune by Benny Golson with lyrics by Allegra Levy. This song opens Levy’s album with power […]
Oded Tzur My Prophet ECM It’s long been said that some of the greatest saxophonists such as Charlie Parker, John Coltrane, Sonny Rollins, and Coleman Hawkins are easily identifiable in just the first few notes they play. While we’re not yet putting the Israeli-born and raised New York City based saxophonist Oded Tzur in that ‘all-time […]