CD Reviews on projects by Jazz artists
Randy Napoleon’s album “Waking Dream” features unique compositions by him and Gregg Hill, showcasing five guitarists. Blending jazz influences with theme development inspired by Beethoven and Chopin, the album presents innovative sounds and arrangements. Standout tracks include “Super Moon” and “The Speckled Frog,” highlighting rich guitar harmonics and solos.
Juliet Ewing’s album “Simply ‘S Wonderful, The Magic of Gershwin” showcases her vocal talent through timeless Gershwin classics. With experience in musical theater and extensive performances, she presents songs like “Our Love is Here to Stay” and “Summertime,” accompanied by skilled musicians. Ewing’s arrangements breathe new life into beloved tunes.
Mark Winkler’s 22nd album, “Hold On,” showcases his lyrical prowess and vocal talent. Featuring six original songs, each track is artistically arranged and performed with top-tier jazz musicians. Highlights include “My Electric Car,” blending catchy melodies with a political message, and a beautiful love ballad that concludes the album.
Lafayette Gilchrist’s album “Move With Love” features a dynamic blend of jazz, funk, and personal themes, performed live in Baltimore. With a talented ensemble, his music reflects society’s everyday struggles and highlights love as a fundamental force. The album showcases diverse rhythms and cultural influences, culminating in the spirited track “Crosspollination Aggregation.”
Hannah Gill’s “Spooky Jazz Vol. 3” offers a creative and enjoyable blend of Halloween-themed jazz, featuring unique arrangements and a mix of familiar and lesser-known songs. With her smooth vocals, Gill showcases her talents across various tunes, though the lack of composer credits on the album raises concerns about recognition and compensation for songwriters.
Joe Bowden, a renowned drummer and composer, has achieved notable recognition, including the Pioneer Award and Bucky Adams Memorial Award. His latest album, “Music is Life,” features a vibrant jazz sound with contributions from talented musicians. However, the absence of musician credits on the album cover raises concerns about proper acknowledgment in the music industry.
David Kikoski Trio’s “Weekend at Smalls” showcases Kikoski’s piano talents, accompanied by Randy Brecker on trumpet, Joe Martin on bass, and Billy Hart on drums. This lively concert blends energetic post-bop with original compositions, reflecting Kikoski’s esteemed status in jazz. The album honors the New York jazz scene while uplifting listeners worldwide.
The Wild Iris Brass Band merges New Orleans tradition with diverse influences including Afrobeats, Brazilian carnival, jazz, and Tennessee roots. Led by Jeff Coffin and Ray Mason, their music is energetic and party-like, featuring engaging vocals and special guests like Bela Fleck. This vibrant collaboration celebrates brass band culture joyfully.
Steve Rosenbloom Big Band’s debut album “San Francisco 1948” features nine original compositions by composer and alto saxophonist Steve Rosenbloom, showcasing a blend of jazz styles. The vibrant arrangements highlight talented musicians, with notable performances from Eric Harding on piano and Allison Burik on saxophone, creating a rich listening experience.
Don Macdonald’s album “Short Stories” showcases his talent as a multi-instrumentalist and storyteller through seven original songs and three covers. Featuring a blend of folk and contemporary influences, the album includes strong performances by fellow musicians, with highlights like “Clementine” and “Sonny’s Bridge,” revealing Macdonald’s lyrical songwriting and engaging style.
Miguel Zenón’s album “Subterránea Live at the Village Vanguard” features new compositions blending jazz and Puerto Rican influences. Recorded live over two nights, the album showcases Zenón’s alto saxophone with dynamic improvisation from his quartet. Notable tracks include “Abra Cuto Guiri Mambo” and “Vita,” celebrating cultural roots with rhythmic complexity.
The album “Oneness World” by Premik Russell Tubbs and Margee Minier-Tubbs blends jazz fusion, East Indian, Celtic, and blues influences into a cohesive exploration of unity and love. Featuring a talented ensemble, the richly produced tracks incorporate diverse musical styles and address themes of humanity, creativity, and resistance against corporate greed.
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.
The Colorado Jazz Repertory Orchestra, founded in 2012, showcases exceptional talent, including vocalist Tatiana ‘LadyMay’ Mayfield. Their latest album features energetic compositions, highlighted by powerful performances and innovative arrangements. With influences from jazz and hip-hop, the orchestra celebrates youth and creativity while continuing to evolve the art form of jazz.
The Haas Company, led by drummer Steve Haas, collaborates with electric violinist Jerry Goodman on their album “Thirteen.” The project features original compositions by pianist Pete Drungle, showcasing a blend of jazz fusion and rock. Highlights include energetic tracks like “Incident at the Country Club” and “Back Door Party,” emphasizing improvisation and dynamic rhythms.
The Steve Holt Jazz Impact Quintet’s album “Impact” features high-energy jazz compositions led by pianist Steve Holt, who contributes six of the nine tracks. With a talented group including Duncan Hopkins, Terry Clarke, Perry White, and Kevin Turcotte, the album showcases exquisite arrangements and performances, marking a significant addition to Holt’s musical career.
José Gobbo’s second trio album, “Confluence,” features six original compositions that blend various influences, including Brazilian rhythms. The album showcases a unique approach to modern jazz, with moments of dissonance and improvisation. The musicians exhibit strong chemistry, culminating in an emotive reinterpretation of “My One and Only Love.”
The Charlie Rouse Band’s “Cinnamon Flower: The Expanded Edition” showcases Rouse’s soulful tenor saxophone against a rich backdrop of Brazilian music. This 1977 recording features notable musicians and offers both original and modified versions. Accompanied by a detailed booklet, this limited edition celebrates Rouse’s enduring musical legacy. Availability starts September 19, 2025.
Jennifer Madsen’s album “Reimagine” features her distinctive voice and unique arrangements by Brent Edstrom, showcasing classic jazz standards like “Body and Soul” and “Willow Weep for Me.” Accompanied by talented musicians, Madsen balances heartfelt expression with dynamic artistry. She also teaches aspiring jazz artists at Snow College.
George Coleman’s album, featuring lush string arrangements, showcases his breathtaking tenor saxophone artistry at age 90. With standout tracks like “Dedicated to You” and “Stella By Starlight,” the album highlights Coleman’s musical evolution and deep jazz roots. It celebrates his impressive technique and enduring influence in the jazz community.
Bruce Gertz Quintet’s album “Octopus Dreams” features compositions by bassist Bruce Gertz, showcasing his talents alongside skilled musicians. The tracks blend dissonant harmonics and expressive solos, with highlights including “Power Walk” and the moody title track. Overall, the album is engaging, well-played, and beautifully arranged, earning high praise from reviewer Dee Dee McNeil.
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.
Dave Anderson’s album “In Lieu of Flowers” is a tribute to jazz legends and educators who influenced him. Featuring original compositions, the quartet showcases Anderson’s skill on saxophones, particularly in pieces like “One for Wayne” and “Sanctuary.” The music balances tribute and emotion, making it an engaging listen throughout.
Dara Starr Tucker’s album “Time Wouldn’t Want,” features her original compositions and reinterpretations of well-known songs. With a blend of jazz, funk, country, soul, and pop, Tucker’s warm vocals and heartfelt lyrics explore themes of time and presence. Notable tracks include “Shining (It’s my Time)” and “What Was I Made For.”
Chris Wabich’s album “1978 (STEEP)” showcases his talent as a drummer, composer, and bandleader, featuring sensitive piano from Josh Nelson and strong bass by Dan Lutz. The album leans towards easy listening with thoughtful compositions like “Jiang (Sage Ember)” and “Oolong.” Wabich, a seasoned performer, recently received the COLA grant.
The Shout Section Big Band, led by Brett T. Dean, celebrates its 20-year legacy of swing and jazz, featuring vocalist Tatum Langley. Their new album showcases her impressive vocal range and theatrical flair. Notable tracks include “Deedle’s Blues” and “Ridin’ High.” The band continues captivating audiences across the Midwest.
David Bailis’s album “Running Through My Mind” showcases his modern jazz style, featuring compositions that blend funk, jazz, and imaginative guitar work. With a talented quintet, including Caroline Davis on alto saxophone, Bailis explores his musical roots while reflecting his passion for running, emphasizing discipline and dedication in both music and life.
The album “Shadows of Tomorrow” by Socrates Garcia and his Latin Jazz Orchestra merges Dominican culture with Afro-Caribbean music and contemporary jazz. Each composition reflects Garcia’s experiences, featuring vibrant rhythms and standout performances. The work is rich in tradition, showcasing well-crafted arrangements and danceable tunes that emphasize cultural heritage and personal storytelling.
Irving Flores’ Afro-Cuban Jazz Sextet presents “Armando Mi Conga,” showcasing his musicianship and passion for Latin rhythms. Inspired by his childhood and influences from his father, the album features infectious compositions like “Gary en Nanchital” and beautiful ballads like “Tramonto A Massa Lubrense,” highlighting Flores’ exceptional talent.
The Marc Seales project features collaboration with Ernie Watts, showcasing original tunes and jazz standards in a heartfelt manner. Highlights include the emotionally charged “Rue Cler,” and the soulful closing piece, “Home Light.” Seales, now retired from his university career, refocuses on his passion for composing and performing jazz.
Antonio Adolfo’s album “Carnaval – The Songs Were So Beautiful” showcases classic Carnaval songs from Brazil’s “Golden Age” (1920s-1950s). Featuring a talented ensemble, it highlights lively rhythms and emotive melodies. Adolfo shares his deep passion for these compositions, inviting listeners to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Carnaval through captivating arrangements.
Catina DeLuna and Otmaro Ruiz release “Lado B Brazilian Project 2,” a follow-up to their Grammy-nominated album. This collaboration blends World Music and Jazz, showcasing DeLuna’s vibrant soprano and Ruiz’s unique use of the accordina. The project explores classic Brazilian songs, delivering enchanting arrangements and rich musical narratives.
Pianist Andy Nevala’s album “El Rumbon” features ten Afro-Cuban influenced tracks with a blend of familiar tunes and original arrangements. Highlights include a Latin take on Stevie Wonder’s “Isn’t She Lovely,” and innovative rhythms in classics like “A Night in Tunisia” and John Coltrane’s “Countdown.” Nevala emphasizes tradition and musical education.
“Transverse” features an international quartet led by American trumpeter Chad McCullough and three Macedonian musicians. The album blends jazz with Macedonian folklore, showcasing compositions that explore diverse themes and varying moods. This collaborative effort exemplifies musical camaraderie, emphasizing music’s power to transcend cultural boundaries and foster unity.
Ben Thomas’s “Tango Project” blends traditional Argentine tango with modern elements, showcasing his multi-instrumental skills on bandoneon, vibraphone, and percussion. With original compositions, the album features dynamic arrangements and seamless transitions that engage listeners. Notably, tracks like “The Promise of Morning” and “Other Afternoons” highlight his expressive artistry.
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.
Emma Hedrick’s debut album, “Newcomer,” showcases her unique jazz compositions and storytelling through ten original songs, including a blend of jazz and pop influences. With a contemporary edge and influences from artists like Duke Ellington, she demonstrates vocal prowess and originality, solidifying her presence in the jazz scene.
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 […]
Rico Jones’ album “Blood Lines” explores his multicultural heritage, blending Latino, Indigenous, and African American influences. Each original composition reflects significant personal connections. The extended suite opens with “Invocation,” showcasing improvisation as a form of spiritual communication. The music aims to connect listeners to a deeper narrative of ancestry and creativity.
John Stein releases his twentieth album, “Among Friends,” featuring jazz singer Fay Whittaker and cellist Chris White. Recorded in 1997, the session showcases the trio’s natural camaraderie through classic standards and original compositions. With minimalist production, the album highlights their improvisational skills and deep connection, offering pure jazz enjoyment.
Joe Farnsworth’s album “The Big Room” features an intergenerational sextet, showcasing the talents of skilled musicians such as Emmet Cohen and Sarah Hanahan. The album blends high energy with soulful melodies, allowing for creativity and improvisation. It premieres at SMOKE Jazz Club in NYC, September 3 – 7, 2025.
Sarah Wilson, a Bay Area trumpeter and composer, released her album “Incandescence,” inspired by her 2023 art residency in Austria. Featuring her ensemble Brass Tonic, the album includes melodious compositions like “Architecture in Space.” Wilson aims to celebrate female musicians and interact with visual art, creating original music in real-time.
The concert “First Meeting” features renowned jazz musicians Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Chris Potter, Larry Grenadier, and Eric Harland at Dizzy’s Club. Their performances showcase emotional depth and improvisational mastery. The double disc set includes pieces like “500 Miles High” and “Con Alma,” reflecting their cohesive artistry and commitment to creating memorable music.
The album “As We Are Now” by Jimmy Greene features a blend of smooth jazz compositions with emotional saxophone performances. Collaborating with vocalists and a talented band, Greene’s artistry shines through original pieces like “Praises” and “Anhelando”, as well as a fresh take on “Speak Low”. The project showcases intricate melodies and rhythmic energy.
“Many Rivers” features Lauren Scales, Mike Flanagan, and Chris Grasso, showcasing a blend of jazz interpretations of R&B and pop classics. Scales’ angelic vocals shine alongside skilled musicianship, with memorable renditions of songs by D’Angelo, Neil Diamond, Thelonious Monk, and others. Their eclectic style touches hearts across genres.
Wayne Alpern’s album “Modern Music” features solo piano compositions by Steven Beck, blending classical and contemporary styles. The twenty pieces exhibit an aesthetic synthesis of tradition and innovation. While influenced by Bach, the music prioritizes composition over improvisation. It appeals to adult-contemporary and Easy Listening audiences, highlighting Alpern’s creativity.
Joane Hétu’s album “Elle a son mot à dire” showcases her avant-garde musical style with an ensemble featuring vocals, saxophone, trumpet, tuba, accordion, and percussion. The compositions blend ethereal soundscapes and experimental elements, creating an immersive experience that defies categorization, while addressing feminist themes through innovative arrangements.
Nicole Zuraitis’s album “Live at Vic’s,” recorded in Las Vegas, features her dynamic vocal performances alongside skilled musicians. She revitalizes classic songs and incorporates jazz elements into R&B standards. With a diverse repertoire and two recent Grammy wins for Best Jazz Vocal Album, Zuraitis exemplifies a fresh voice in the jazz scene.
Ben Clifton, a Pittsburgh native now based in Houston, releases his debut album “Overlook,” reflecting his personal experiences and musical collaborations. The album includes contemporary jazz tracks like “Convocation” and “Shadows,” featuring smooth arrangements and a pop-influenced vocal. With an easy-listening, peaceful vibe, it’s perfect for relaxation.
Rez Abbasi’s “Sound Remains,” his 17th album, features his Acoustic Quintet blending jazz with elements of his heritage. The compositions reflect themes of mindfulness and freedom, showcasing Abbasi’s guitar mastery and innovation. Musical improvisation prevails, with resonant vibraphone, driving rhythms, and rich textures, celebrating cultural influences in a unique sound.