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.
Jeff Coffin’s “Only the Horizon” features a myriad of talented musicians across various genres, blending contemporary jazz with African rhythms and R&B. The album is characterized by its repetitive, catchy melodies, intricate improvisations, and diverse instrumentation, providing a rich, culturally eclectic musical experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Philip Weberndoerfer’s album “Tides,” released by Shifting Paradigm Records, showcases his journey from Bavaria to New York City, inspired by a transformative encounter with guitarist Pat Martino. Featuring original compositions and performances by Dayna Stephens, Richard Mikel, and Peter Traunmueller, the album blends intricate melodies, improvisation, and blues influences.
Livio Almeida’s “Brasilia Sessions” album exudes vibrant energy, starting with crowd noises and joyful voices. Featuring impressive solos and compositions like “Sambasus,” “Partido Cerrado,” and “Brasilia Afro Samba,” the album blends samba and Afro-Samba beats. Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil, the album showcases Almeida’s tenor saxophone skill, composition prowess, and band synergy.
The album “HAMILTON DE HOLANDA & GONZALO RUBALCABA: COLLAB” by Sony Music/Brazil features Afro-Cuban pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba and Brazilian mandolinist Hamilton de Holanda, along with other artists. Highlighting original compositions and renowned works, the album showcases their exceptional jazz talents, masterful improvisations, and creative synergy, earning high praise for its brilliance and historic significance.
“Human Geography” by Michael Eckroth Group showcases compositions blending Latin rhythms, jazz, and African roots. Featuring vibrant percussion, improvisational piano, and energetic horns, the album highlights Eckroth’s unique style developed over a decade. The title signifies the cultural and geographical influences in the music, resulting in a refreshing fusion.
Chris Daniels & The Kings, formed in 1984, have celebrated their 40th anniversary with “Blues With Horns Volume II.” Known for their Chicago-styled horn arrangements, the band, now featuring Freddi Gowdy, continues to infuse energetic “call and response” dynamics. The album showcases tracks blending blues, soul, and R&B influences.
Enrico Granafei’s album “It’s Hard to Say Goodbye” showcases his multi-instrumental talent and compositions alongside contributions from renowned musicians. The album blends various genres, highlighting Granafei’s mastery of the chromatic harmonica and guitar. It features tributes to his mentor Toots Thielemans and compositions from fellow musicians, emphasizing Granafei’s innovative artistry.
Guy Davis, a seasoned American blues musician, excels in playing multiple instruments and vocals. At 72, his career spans music and acting, with two Grammy nominations. His latest album, “The Legend of Sugarbelly,” features diverse songs rooted in blues tradition, showcasing his deep cultural influences and storytelling prowess.
IZE TRIO’s debut album, The Global Suites, blends jazz and Middle Eastern music by Chase Morrin, Naseem Alatrash, and George Lernis. Created during the COVID-19 pandemic, the album features four suites addressing social issues. Musically diverse and socially conscious, it offers unique, multicultural soundscapes and thought-provoking compositions. Special guests include John Patitucci and Farayi Malek.
Dr. Zachary Bartholomew, a renowned jazz pianist and professor at Florida Memorial University, debuts his album “Balancing Act” featuring original compositions. Accompanied by top musicians, Bartholomew blends multiple jazz genres. Tracks like “Crazy Socks” and “Hobo’s Lullaby” highlight his compositional and arranging talent, balancing varied rhythms and energies. Release date: August 2, 2024.
Jonathan Barber’s ensemble, Vision Ahead, presents their fourth studio album “In Motion,” featuring eight original compositions and two reprises. Recognized by Modern Drummer Magazine, Barber demonstrates a warm interplay of rhythm and melody. The album blends contemporary and modern jazz, showcasing Barber’s unique, complex style, distinct compositions, and instrumental harmony.
Geoffrey Keezer’s “Live at Birdland” marks his first live recording in over fifteen years, featuring John Patitucci and Clarence Penn. This album blends Keezer’s originals with compositions by his heroes, Chick Corea and Wayne Shorter. The trio’s performance highlights technical mastery and emotional depth, garnering enthusiastic audience applause.
“Pocket Change” by Andy Peake is the follow-up to his 2021 debut album, featuring Peake on drums and vocals. The album, self-produced and mastered at Big Little Records, includes contributions from top musicians like guitarists Will McFarlane and Kenny Vaughan. Seven tracks are written or co-written by Peake.
Satoko Fujii and Natsuki Tamura’s album “Aloft” marks their ninth collaborative project, celebrating nearly thirty years together. Blending classical, rock, contemporary, traditional Japanese music, and American jazz, they produce original, improvised compositions. Each track offers intricate interplay, exemplified by “Migration” and “Wintering,” showcasing their profound musical understanding and spontaneity.
Natalie Jacob’s album “Sooner or Later” features her vocal prowess on ten jazz standards, highlighting her versatility and ability to improvise while staying true to original compositions. Accompanied by seasoned musicians, she demonstrates command in various styles and languages, offering renditions filled with energy and emotion. Available August 2, 2024.
Memphis Royal Brothers is a band inspired by the documentary “Take Me To The River”. Formed by Richard and Gary Bolen in Memphis, with Boo Mitchell co-producing, the band includes Grammy winners Bobby Rush and Jim Lauderdale. The album features standout tracks like “Good God I Got The Blues” and “Ready To Rise”, showcasing a blend of roots, blues, and rock n’ roll, performed by an exceptional ensemble.
John “Jubu” Smith, a versatile musician, began his career at age four in his father’s gospel quartet. Over four decades, he has played with Tony Toni Tone, Whitney Houston, and Frankie Beverly & Maze. Smith’s new album, an all-instrumental project featuring eight original tracks, showcases his talents alongside collaborators like Charlie Hunter and Calvin Napper.
Dickey Betts, a versatile musician, is honored with “Live From the Lone Star Roadhouse New York City 1988,” showcasing a full performance by the Dickey Betts Band. The recording includes classic and new songs, featuring guest appearances by Rick Derringer, Jack Bruce, and Mick Taylor. This album highlights Betts’ exceptional guitar skills and rich musical legacy.
Alex LoRe’s album “Motivity” features a chordless trio with Thomas Morgan on bass and Johnathan Blake on drums. Influenced by Lee Konitz, LoRe’s compositions are both innovative and nostalgic. The album includes interpretations of classics and original pieces, showcasing the trio’s technical prowess and cohesive sound. Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil.
Mick Kolassa, a seasoned singer-songwriter with 15 albums, celebrates various blues styles in his new album “All Kinds of Blues.” Born in Michigan and residing in Clarksdale, Mississippi, Kolassa enjoys a thriving career, collaborating with notable artists. His work supports The Blues Foundation, showcasing his dedication to the genre.
Amanda Fish began her music career in 2012 and released her debut album in 2015, winning a Blues Blast Award in 2016. Her third studio album “Kingdom,” released by Vizztone, features powerful songs influenced by personal and societal issues, showcasing her strong vocals and collaboration with various musicians.
Omer Leshem’s album “PLAY SPACE,” featuring ten original compositions, showcases his cultural background and diverse influences, from Middle Eastern to European harmonies. The album, recorded with talented Israeli jazz musicians in Woodstock, New York, includes standout tracks like “Twilight Hymn,” “Take an Advil,” and “Cape Town Swag.” The music demonstrates great versatility, emotional depth, and vibrant performances. Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil.
Willie Buck, renowned for his old-school blues, was influenced by Muddy Waters. Since 1982, he has released notable albums like “It’s Alright” and “Cell Phone Man.” His 2019 album “Honorary Blues Legend Willie Buck Way” features The Delmark All-Stars and pays homage to classic blues, live performances, and influential musicians.
Andy James’ album “Let Me See Your Heart,” released by LeCoq Records, features a stellar ensemble of musicians and includes fresh takes on classics like “Take Five” and “Bali Ha’i.” James’ rendition of “New York State of Mind” is unique, while original compositions show mixed lyrical quality. The album debuts on August 9, 2024.
Preacher Stone, founded by guitarist Marty Hill and lead vocalist Ronnie Riddle, gained recognition with their song “Not Today” featured in “Sons of Anarchy.” The band’s lineup includes Ben Robinson, Johnny Webb, Jim Bolt, and Wyatt. Known for their powerful, groove-driven live performances, Preacher Stone embodies southern rock with swagger.
Jason Robinson’s album “Ancestral Numbers 1” explores his family history through music, blending jazz, experimental, and popular genres. Featuring musicians like Joshua White and Drew Gress, the album includes tracks like “Second House” and “Malachi,” illustrating Robinson’s lineage. The release promises two volumes, reflecting his genealogy in 2024.
Bill Banfield’s new album “Take Time to Listen” is a solo guitar tribute inspired by his father’s advice and dedicated to his mentors, Kenny Burrell and Earl Klugh. Notable for his symphonic and operatic compositions, Banfield’s new work showcases his skillful interpretations of classic jazz, pop, and R&B pieces.
Nation Beat, led by master percussionist Scott Kettner and saxophonist Paul Carlon, crafts a unique music blend without traditional rhythm sections, using only drums and horns. Their album features influences from Brazilian and American Southern cultures, with a diverse range of compositions and guest artists. The result is an engaging and joyful listening experience.
Bruno Raberg’s new album “Evolver” by the Bruno Raberg Tentet features an ensemble blending smooth jazz with elements from Greek mythology and traditional Indian music. Each track showcases the talents of various musicians, including special guests Kris Davis and Walter Smith III. Raberg’s compositions draw on his diverse influences and rich musical experiences.
Elias Haslanger and Mike Sailors, long-time friends and jazz musicians, collaborate on an album blending bebop and blues influences. Recorded at Estuary Recording Studio in Austin, Texas, the album features original compositions and a Clifford Jordon cover. The release, praised for its energetic and soulful performances, is set for August 16, 2024.
Melinda Rose and Frenchy Romero showcase their decade-long musical partnership in their debut album “I’m On My Way.” The album features Rose’s emotive vocals and Romero’s brilliant piano techniques across various genres and includes original compositions. Their synergy, complemented by other talented musicians, delivers an engaging and memorable listening experience.
Natsuki Tamura and Jim Black’s album “NATJIM” on Libra Records is a reunion of two master musicians after 25 years, offering freewheeling, experimental music. Their improvised pieces like “Morning City” and “City of Night” explore varied themes and emotions, akin to a dynamic dialogue between trumpet and drums.
Kelly’s Lot has focused on blues since their debut and their third collection, “The Blues Remind Me,” follows their 2021 live album. Written by Kelly Zirbes and Perry Robertson, the album includes diverse musical contributions and performances across Southern California, Texas, France, and Croatia. Future performances include festivals in Ireland and Croatia.
Bruce Katz started with classical piano as a child before studying jazz piano and Hammond organ at Berklee. His career spans playing with Big Mama Thornton, forming his own band in 1997, and multiple collaborations. His album “Back In Boston Live” features nine originals and two covers, showcasing Katz’s versatility and exceptional technique.
Joe Ely, a pioneer of the progressive country scene from Austin, Texas, releases his 17th solo album, Driven to Drive. This acoustic-centered collection features Ely’s strong vocals and storytelling, supported by musicians like Joel Guzman and Bruce Springsteen. The album revisits themes of wanderlust and motorized travel, blending genres from blues to rock.
Veronica Thomas’s sophomore album, “They Say It’s Wonderful,” showcases her transition from her debut name, Nica Carrington, to her birth name. Recorded in Los Angeles with top jazz musicians, the album features twelve tracks, including standards like “Get Out of Town” and “Dindi.” John Proulx directed and accompanied her once again.
Bill Wharton, known as Sauce Boss, combines his passions for cooking and music in his live performances, where he cooks gumbo on stage while playing blues, R&B, and rockabilly. His new album features a mix of originals and covers, showcasing his soulful vocals and guitar skills, often collaborating with other musicians.
Eyal Vilner’s album “Swingin’ Uptown” vividly revives the big band music era of the 1920s to 1940s, blending six original compositions with timeless classics. Vilner, inspired by jazz dance and history, leads his ensemble with familial warmth, complemented by Imani Rousselle’s soulful vocals on tracks like “Tell Me Pretty Baby.”
Chris Cain, a renowned blues artist born in San Jose, released his tenth album “Good Intentions Gone Bad” through Alligator Records. Known for his multifaceted musicianship and heartfelt lyrics, Cain’s work often explores themes of love and life struggles. His ensemble features talented musicians, and the album continues to earn him acclaim.
Ron Rieder showcases his debut Latin Jazz album, featuring ten Afro-Cuban inspired compositions. Collaborating with skilled musicians, Rieder’s melodies are both memorable and dance-inducing. Key tracks include “Un Coco Loco,” “The Samba Moon,” and “St. John,” each highlighting various instrumental solos. The album exudes joy, rhythm, and liveliness, ensuring listener enjoyment.
Rob Parton’s Ensemble 9+ album “Relentless” features powerful, energetic performances with standout solos from a talented lineup of musicians. Highlights include a Latin spin on Freddie Hubbard’s “Straight Life,” and original compositions by Parton. The album, showcasing a mix of genres, reflects Parton’s rich musical heritage and current mentorship at UNT.
Jake Leckie’s third album, “Planter of Seeds,” showcases his compositions, featuring a quintet including guitar, piano, drums, tenor saxophone, and trombone. Melancholy and bright tunes highlight Goodfellow’s drums and Peled’s guitar prowess. The album explores themes of planting seeds for future beauty, with standout tracks like “Big Sur Jade” and “Clear Skies.”
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.
The Pontchartrain Shakers’ debut album features Southeast Louisiana Blues artists Amedee A5 Frederick and Jojjo Wight. Formed in 2018, the band includes Luciano Leaes, Red DeVecca, and Earl Smith. Notable tracks include “Time To Make A Change” and “Louisiana 1927.” This album showcases their vibrant Blues roots.
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.
Denise LaGrassa’s album “Sundown Rising” follows her successful debut “The Flame.” Recorded in Chicago, it features original and collaborative tracks. Highlights include critiques of social inequality and powerful musicianship, with guest appearances by Pierre Lacocque and The Nunn Sisters. LaGrassa’s heartfelt lyrics and organ playing shine throughout, leaving listeners wanting more.
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.
Portland blues singer/songwriter Richard Wilkins celebrates his new album “Empty Seats” after two years since his last recording. Featuring notable musicians like Jimi Bott and LaRhonda Steele, the album includes a tribute to Stevie Ray Vaughan and covers by Rod Piazza and the Hollywood Fats Band. Wilkins’ personal transformation to a sober life also inspires some tracks.