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.
Joel Miller’s album “What If?” features a blend of classical music and contemporary jazz, showcasing his saxophone skills alongside musicians like Dani Sametz and Andrew Reed Miller. The work reflects Miller’s musical heritage and explores the fusion of different traditions. Notable pieces include “Clair de Lune” and “What a Wonderful World.”
The Name Droppers, a veteran New England quartet, blends blues, R&B, soul, and rock ‘n’ roll in their sixth album, “Let’s Live Together.” Following Charlie Karp’s passing in 2019, members Rafe Klein, Ron Rifkin, Scott Spray, and Bobby Torello deliver original songs and creative covers, showcasing their musical legacy and collaboration.
Steven Bernstein’s “ResoNation Trio” features a chordless trio with bass and drums, exploring improvised experimental music. The album includes a second work by producer Scotty Hard, transforming the sessions into “Ultra Resonance,” which embraces Avant-garde creativity. Together, they offer a unique musical journey on one compact disc.
ANDREW MacKELVIE ANDREW MacKELVIE’S MANY WORLDS WTETN Records Picture yourself on a bike, stopped at a traffic light, when out of nowhere a car hits you from behind and sends you flying over your bicycle handles, crashing to the ground. “I recall those few seconds passing as hours while I realized that I was about […]
The Julia Keefe Indigenous Big Band, a sixteen-member ensemble primarily of Native and Indigenous musicians, showcases original compositions influenced by tribal histories and storytelling in their debut album, “Incarnadine.” Led by vocalist Julia Keefe, the band blends jazz with Native American culture, featuring diverse influences and genres, including hip hop.
The Trevor B. Power Band Two Crows Farm 189 Records The Trevor B. Power Band is based in northwest New Jersey. Power grew up in a household with parents that loved all kinds of music. He received his first guitar when he was fifteen and began playing the rock ‘n’ roll of the sixties and […]
Rich Willey’s album “Laid Back Vol. 1” features a lively mix of jazz styles, highlighting John Swana on the Electronic Valve Instrument. The album includes danceable tracks like “Laid Back (Night Life)” and showcases Willey’s talents as a composer and educator. Each song encompasses influences from reggae, blues, and contemporary jazz.
Christopher Sánchez’s album “Latin Jazz Meets Opera” reflects his personal journey through music, blending elements of Caribbean culture, jazz, and opera. While he showcases his operatic training, his interpretations of jazz lack emotional freedom. His cultural roots shine in Spanish songs, but classical pieces feel misaligned within the project.
Tanasi, a band honoring Appalachian heritage, features members Bill Cardine, Mary Lucey, and Anya Hinkle. Their debut album intertwines traditional melodies with personal lyrics, exploring deep cultural roots. Notable tracks include “Mahalia/Let’s Hold On” and “Get Up/Ore Mi Kini Se,” showcasing diverse influences and inviting listeners to connect through music.
Jared Hall’s album “Hometown” features original compositions celebrating his roots and past experiences. With an all-star band, the album showcases a range of styles, from swinging bebop to waltzes. Notable tracks include “Step by Step” and a waltz arrangement of “Little B’s Poem.” Hall’s return to teaching promises to inspire future musicians.
Chris Gardner, an Americana vocalist influenced by artists like the Beatles and Eagles, celebrates his musical journey in his ninth album, “Can’t Go Home.” Featuring introspective lyrics and collaborations with various musicians, the album combines humor and somber themes. Gardner’s powerful vocals resonate throughout, exploring nostalgia and the passage of time.
JP Soars & Anne Harris’s album “Gypsy Blue Revue” showcases a rich blend of blues, samba, and Celtic influences, featuring intricate instrumentals and diverse styles. Notable tracks include the evocative homage to Jesse Mae Hemphill, and the lively “Cigar Box Jam.” The album highlights Soars’ musicianship and celebrates meaningful, joyful music.
Phillip Golub’s album “Partisan Ship” features experimental music that transports listeners into a cosmic adventure. The opening track combines electronic loops with jazzy clarinet solos, creating immersive soundscapes. Each piece explores diverse instrument interactions, enhanced by striking album artwork. This collection is a must-have for experimental music enthusiasts.
The Claudettes, led by pianist Johnny Iguana, blend various musical styles in their new album “Garage Glamour.” Featuring soulful vocals from newcomer Rachel Williams and collaborations with notable artists, the album showcases tracks that range from energetic dance songs to introspective ballads. Their unique sound and style continue to evolve as they tour.
Richard Baratta’s album “Another Kind of Bird” features inventive arrangements of Charlie Parker classics, showcasing a talented ensemble of musicians. Highlights include dynamic performances on tracks like “Donna Lee” and “Embraceable You,” blending post-bop jazz with a Latin flair. Baratta’s creative drumming and collaboration with pianist Bill O’Connell deliver a fresh tribute to Parker’s legacy.
The James McGowan Ensemble’s album “Threads of Fate” merges classical, orchestral, and theatrical elements, featuring original compositions intertwined with poetry reflecting Greek mythology. While some tracks touch on jazz, the album lacks improvisational spontaneity typical of the genre. Overall, it functions more as a soundtrack for theatrical presentations.
Gergana Velinova’s album “Free” blends her Bulgarian and Canadian roots with Brazilian music, showcasing her heartfelt lyrics and catchy melodies. The ten original tracks reflect her journey as a new mom and a recent Canadian citizen. Collaborating with talented musicians, Velinova’s work emanates positivity and emotional depth, highlighting her artistic talent.
Ruth Rothwell’s album “Empire Child” features her powerful soprano vocals and reflects her positive activism through memorable lyrics. With a blend of pop and spiritual themes, songs like “Trace the Race” and “Negativity Be Gone” showcase her unique style. The album is positioned as pop Worship Music, appealing to broader audiences.
The David Janeway Trio’s album, recorded live at Blue Llama, features inventive renditions of jazz standards and original compositions, showcasing Janeway’s piano skills alongside Robert Hurst and Billy Hart. Influenced by Detroit’s jazz legacy, Janeway balances his careers as a pianist and psychiatrist, emphasizing community and emotional connection in both fields.
Jeff Hamilton’s trio, featuring pianist Tadataka Unno and bassist Jon Hamer, releases their album “A New Chapter” on RMI Records. Known for his drumming mastery, Hamilton showcases a mix of original compositions, blending talent and experience. The album highlights Unno’s virtuosity and resilience, delivering an engaging jazz experience.
Anni Piper Men Are Like Potato Chips Sugar Daddy Records Australian-born Anni Piper first started playing guitar at the age of twelve but switched to bass two years later. She was first influenced by listening to the blues-rock of Stevie Ray Vaughan. She released her debut recording, Jailbait, in 2004. She signed with Bluesleaf Records […]
Sergio Pereira’s album “Colors of Time” merges Brazilian music with international jazz influences. Born in Rio, he later moved to New York, expanding his musicality. The album features eight original tracks, including a collaboration on “Dreams.” Pereira’s compositions evoke hope and balance in a chaotic world, showcasing an array of talented musicians.
Harrell “Young Rell” Davenport, born in 2007 in Vicksburg, Mississippi, emerged as a blues talent at just seventeen, debuting at The University of Chicago in 2024. Known for his soulful songwriting and musicianship, he pays tribute to his grandfather on his inaugural album. Rell reflects on personal struggles, showcasing emotional depth through his music.
Ben Markley’s Big Band’s album features original compositions by Markley and arrangements of pieces by Cedar Walton and Thelonious Monk. With a talented core group of Colorado musicians, the album showcases energetic performances, including vibrant solos and innovative arrangements, marking a significant evolution in Markley’s musical journey as a composer and arranger.
John Beasley collaborates with the SWR Big Band on “Invisible Piano,” an innovative album inspired by art. With a focus on technology and creativity, Beasley reinterprets music through his Steinway Spirio piano. The project features unique orchestrations, including covers of “Can’t Hide Love” and “Fire and Rain.”
The Joe Syrian Motor City Jazz Octet’s album “A Blue Time” showcases creative jazz arrangements blending various genres. Highlights include Carl Maraghi’s solos, Paul Bollenback’s innovative guitar, and a range of special guest contributions. The music features refreshing rhythms and unexpected twists, offering a fresh perspective on familiar tunes.
Lawrence Udeigwe’s album “Four Lemmas” merges music with mathematical concepts, showcasing his diverse background as a Nigerian composer and mathematician. The eight-track suite features rich jazz elements, poetry, and vocals, with standout pieces like “I Don’t Care.” Udeigwe explores themes of identity while fusing world music and cultural influences.
Warren Wolf, a talented Baltimore-born vibraphonist, showcases his skills in his new album “Smoove Vibes,” blending traditional jazz, R&B, and smooth jazz. Recorded in his basement studio, the album features various instruments and collaborations. Notable tracks include “Fabrica” and a fresh take on “Take Five,” highlighting Wolf’s exceptional musicianship.
Champian Fulton’s album “House Party” showcases her vibrant piano and vocal talent, blending classic jazz standards with dynamic arrangements. Accompanied by skilled musicians, the album radiates joy and spontaneity, capturing the essence of a warm gathering. This marks Fulton’s 20th release, highlighting her journey from childhood jazz prodigy to polished artist.
“Les Poles Volume 1,” by the Alexis Martin Ensemble, features an array of talented Quebec musicians, blending contemporary jazz and cinematic influences. The album captures personal memories and themes of transformation, aiming to provide listeners with a soothing inner journey. However, the booklet’s small font detracts from acknowledging the artists’ contributions.
Russ Green, a Chicago-born harmonica player and vocalist, creates blues music influenced by Jimi Hendrix and mentors like Sugar Blue. His debut album, “City Soul,” features heartfelt songs about love and struggles, blending traditional blues with personal storytelling. Green aims to resonate with listeners through relatable themes and emotional depth.
Scott O’Neal, an Arizona Blues Hall of Fame inductee, leads the Scott O’Neal Band, which formed in 2002. Their album “Call Me Mr. Blues” features original tracks showcasing O’Neal’s songwriting and guitar skills. The band won the Northern Arizona International Blues Challenge in 2020, reflecting their growing prominence in the blues scene.
Marcus Goldhaber’s album “The Promise of You” marks his return after nearly a decade, following his work at Harlem’s Speakeasy Jazz Club. Featuring six original songs and six classics, the album showcases Goldhaber’s smooth vocals and lyrical prowess. His original compositions stand out, reflecting his growth as a songwriter.
Dave Thomas is a veteran British blues guitarist and singer, recognized for his influential career spanning over five decades. He has performed with prominent artists and led the house band at Shake Down Blues. His recent albums, including “Road to the Blues,” have topped charts. Thomas’s music reflects personal experiences and influences from legendary blues artists.
Earl “Guitar” Williams, a veteran of the soul blues scene from Bessemer, Alabama, has released his fourth album, “The Soul King of Bessemer, AL,” produced by Jimbo Mathus. The ten tracks include seven originals and three covers, showcasing Williams’ diverse musical range and storytelling, reinforced by the Crimestoppers’ harmonies.
Nicky T and The Snake Charmers release their sophomore album, “Ain’t Wasting Time,” blending traditional blues influences with modern flair. Featuring a mix of original songs and tributes to blues legends, the band showcases their talent with various instruments and collaborations, affirming Nicky T’s growing prominence in the genre.
Kristen Mather de Andrade’s album “Sem Fim” blends Brazilian culture with jazz and classical music, showcasing her clarinet and enchanting vocals. While the album’s design is criticized for being unreadable, the music is praised for its beauty and creativity. Mather de Andrade aims to reinterpret timeless traditions, creating an engaging listening experience.
Bobby Sanabria’s Multiverse Big Band album, “Arsenio and Beyond,” celebrates the influence of Cuban composer Arsenio Rodriguez on modern music genres like salsa and Afro-Cuban jazz. The live performance captivates with vibrant arrangements, featuring solos by talented musicians. This album honors Rodriguez’s legacy while showcasing the Big Band’s energetic interpretations, inviting listeners to dance.
Dida Pelled I Wish You Would La Reserve Records Dida Pelled is a notable jazz guitarist, singer, and songwriter based in Brooklyn. Born on May 27, 1988, the thirty-seven-year-old Pelled has gained recognition for her unique blend of jazz and blues, showcasing her musical versatility and creativity. Pelled is celebrated for her engaging performances. She […]
The Jazzlab Orchestra’s “Glissement du Temps” showcases two decades of their contemporary jazz legacy in Quebec. Featuring ten original pieces, the project highlights contributions from various musicians, including drummer Michel Lambert and pianist Francois Bourassa. Each composition offers a unique emotional journey, blending dynamic orchestration with rich melodies.
Ben Wendel’s album “BaRcoDe” showcases innovative modern jazz, blending tenor saxophone with a unique ensemble of vibraphones and EFX. Influenced by Indonesian folk, the sound merges electronic experimentation with traditional jazz elements. Recorded in Brooklyn, this album features skilled artists, promising an award-winning auditory experience.
Pete Mills’ album “This Is Now” features his dynamic tenor saxophone performance alongside a talented quartet. Inspired by personal experiences and collaborations, the album includes original compositions like “This is Now” and “3 Kisses.” Each track showcases the ensemble’s skill, particularly highlighting Mills and pianist Kenny Banks Jr.’s synergy.
Barry Greene’s “Giants” is a tribute album featuring talented musicians like Pat Bianchi and Ulysses Owens Jr. The album showcases jazz guitar blending with organ, celebrating influences like Wes Montgomery and Grant Green. It offers a dynamic mix of original and classic tunes, highlighting Greene’s exceptional skills and musical roots.
Lester, Winchester, and McKendree’s album “They Got It All” showcases their diverse musical backgrounds, blending roots rock and Americana influences. With engaging lyrics and innovative instrumentation, the album features standout tracks such as “I’m No Amateur” and “Bad Mantras,” reflecting the trio’s collaborative spirit and creative evolution.
Alister Spence’s album “Always Ever” features a collection of sixteen experimental, improvised piano compositions highlighting his unique approach to the instrument. With a focus on sound exploration and artistic accidents, Spence challenges conventional playing, resulting in rich textures and surprising tones. This marks his first solo album in a four-decade career.
The Carmen Ratti Band featuring Jill Dineen showcases their musical evolution in their latest album, Come to Me. With a blend of soul and blues, the album highlights Dineen’s impressive vocal delivery and Ratti’s guitar prowess. Their tight collaboration and high-quality songwriting deliver a memorable listening experience for fans of the genre.
Denise La Grassa, an adventurous artist from Chicago, blends genres in her latest album, “A Crossroads Communion.” Drawing from blues, soul, and jazz, she crafts powerful songs reflecting on modern issues and personal struggles. With a talented band, La Grassa’s bold music respects tradition while introducing fresh sounds.
The post highlights Ahmad Jamal’s live recording at the Jazz Showcase in Chicago, featuring notable musicians John Heard and Frank Gant. After years of influencing jazz, including artists like Miles Davis, Jamal showcases his original compositions and interpretations of classics. His recent release, recorded in 1976, honors his lasting legacy.
Tia Fuller and Shamie Fuller-Royston, sisters and musicians, honor their family’s musical legacy with their album “Dynasty.” Their duet showcases Tia on alto saxophone and vocals alongside Shamie on piano, blending jazz and classical influences. The album celebrates their mother’s impact, highlighting their artistic connection and powerful performances despite minimal instrumentation.
ROY HARGROVE BERN Time Traveler Recordings Roy Hargrove, trumpet/flugelhorn/composer; Larry Willis, piano; Gerald Cannon, bass; Willie Jones III, drums; Sherman Irby, alto saxophone. When Roy Hargrove burst onto the New York jazz scene, he made an assertive impression on his fellow musicians and the jazz community as a young lion with a big, beautiful roar. […]
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