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.
Gregory Groover Jr.’s sophomore album “Old Knew” features a stellar lineup, including vibraphonist Joel Ross and drummer Kendrick Scott. The album, emphasizing interaction among musicians, navigates themes of agitation and melody within a church-influenced soundscape. Notable tracks pay tribute to Groover’s family, showcasing his growth as a composer and leader.
Ed Harris is a renowned American musician dedicated to Celtic music for over 30 years. His latest album, “Echoes Through The Elderwoods,” features 14 captivating songs blending instrumental and vocal components. Harris’s mastery of multiple instruments enhances his artistry. Importantly, he donates all album proceeds to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital.
Tom Clarke reviews 20 standout roots and blues albums of 2025, highlighting diverse artists including Little Feat, Shelby Means, and Mike Farris. Each album showcases unique songwriting and musicianship, from Americana to blues, emphasizing authenticity and emotional depth. The selections reflect the vibrancy and evolution of the roots music landscape.
Drummer Eric McPherson leads a unique “Double Bass Quartet” featuring bassists John Hébert and Ben Street, alongside pianist David Virelles. This innovative project showcases intricate arrangements and improvisation, highlighting the synergy between the musicians. The album offers a blend of creative compositions, including tributes to Andrew Hill and captivating melodies, showcasing McPherson’s exceptional drumming skills.
Jimbo Ross, a renowned five-string electric viola/violin player, has had a prolific career collaborating with icons like Frank Sinatra and Paul McCartney. His latest jazz album, “Jazz Passion and Latin Satin,” showcases his unique sound and improvisational skills, alongside talented musicians. The album features diverse tracks, blending genres and highlighting Ross’s virtuosity.
Aretha Tillotson’s sophomore album, “Kinda Out West,” features original compositions highlighting her band, including notable jazz musicians. The album blends contemporary jazz with emotive pieces like “Lullaby to those Before” and energetic tracks such as “Sphere of Influence.” Tillotson’s bass and her quartet showcase remarkable improvisation and musicality throughout.
The Scott Silbert Quartet’s album “Dream Dancing” honors Zoot Sims’s legacy on his upcoming 100th birthday. Featuring Silbert on saxophones, along with Amy Shook, Robert Redd, and Chuck Redd, the album blends familiar jazz tunes with warmth and creativity. Notable pieces include a Brazilian arrangement of “Dream Dancing” and the original “Blues for Louise.”
Kenny Barron’s debut album “Sunset to Dawn,” released on April 2, 1973, marks the beginning of his prolific career. Influenced by jazz greats and his brother Bill, Barron explored various musical styles, incorporating electric piano and showcasing his versatility. The album captures a significant period of artistic growth for the young pianist.
Carl Schultz’s album “The Road to Trantor” features a blend of cinematic compositions for saxophone, flute, and jazz ensemble. Inspired by science fiction themes, Schultz’s music includes dynamic pieces like “Journey” and “Ecumenopolis.” A Pennsylvania native and seasoned educator, he now directs Jazz Studies at Santa Clara University, showcasing a unique artistic vision.
Pianist Lisa Hilton’s 31st album, Extended Daydream, features jazz quintet improvisation with nine originals and two covers, including Miles Davis’s “So What” and Billie Eilish’s “Wildflower.” The album, more melancholic and reflective due to California’s wildfires, explores diverse moods and harmonic depths, calling for optimism amid adversity.
Glenn Crytzer and His Quartet’s upcoming album, “The Songbook Sessions, Vol. 1 – 1920”, features ten songs, with singles released every Friday starting October 3, 2025. The quartet, specializing in Jazz Age and Swing Era music, offers fresh renditions of classic tunes, showcasing their deep musical knowledge and connection to jazz history.
Paul Marinaro’s double album, “Mood Ellington,” showcases 25 Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn songs with inventive arrangements by thirteen respected arrangers. Marinaro’s warm baritone and masterful phrasing evoke deep emotion, creating a seamless tribute. The album’s thoughtful grouping of songs enhances its cohesiveness, marking it as a standout vocal project of the year.
Reckless and Blue’s album “Seven Deadly Gins,” released in 2023, showcases the band’s blend of traditional blues with modern influences. Formed by George Williams in 2017, the lineup features dual lead vocalists Williams and Shaunda Fry, who create emotional depth through their dynamic interplay. The album explores themes of love and loss across a variety of styles, highlighting their strong musicianship and chemistry.
Anthony D’Alessandro’s sophomore album “City Lights” features seven original compositions and reimagined works by James P. Johnson. Collaborating with top Canadian musicians, D’Alessandro’s pieces explore various styles, including swing and Latin influences. Highlights include “Four Minute Mile,” “Oversight,” and a vibrant tribute to Johnson’s classics, showcasing his piano prowess.
The Flying Horse Big Band’s ninth album features composer Jeff Rupert, who leads the ensemble with George Garzone as a notable soloist. The album showcases energetic tracks like “Chasin’ Tail” and a beautiful ballad rendition of “Reflections.” Garzone’s contributions elevate the band’s performance, demonstrating remarkable talent throughout the record.
Harrison Argatoff’s debut album, “Stars, Engines,” features an all-star quartet celebrating nature and jazz. Inspired by childhood memories of stargazing, the album blends improvisational jazz with chamber music influences, showcasing Argatoff’s compositions. Each piece, like “Wishlow” and “Analemma,” highlights individual artistry, creating a meditative musical experience.
Rich Brown’s album “Nyaeba” showcases his innovative solo bass project, employing various electric bass types without looping, creating a warm and organic sound. Each track explores themes of storytelling and personal expression, with rich tonal diversity. Influenced by South African and Brazilian music, Brown conveys deep emotions through his compositions, establishing a unique musical voice.
The live album “Vibrations in the Village: Live at the Village Gate” features Rahsaan Roland Kirk, a blind multi-instrumentalist, recorded in 1963. Despite a film project being abandoned, the taped performances showcase his remarkable talent and interaction with bandmates. Kirk’s innovative style and spirit shine through in this historic jazz release.
Ellen Rowe’s album “Vinton’s Cove,” featuring her quartet with guest vocalist Sunny Wilkinson, is inspired by nature and personal reflection. It showcases five original compositions and inventive renditions of jazz standards, displaying Rowe’s emotional depth and musical versatility. The album promises to enrich any jazz collection with its melodic allure.
Josie Falbo, a seasoned Chicago vocalist, releases her third album, “Kickin’ It,” showcasing her impressive jazz skills over nearly fifty years. Known for her heartfelt performances, she sings in Italian and English, blending classical and pop influences. The album features excellent arrangements and musicians, highlighting her emotional depth and remarkable scat singing.
LOREN SCHOENBERG AND HIS JAZZ ORCHESTRA featuring KATE KORUM & WARREN WOLF SO MANY MEMORIES Turtle Bay Records This album time-travels us back to the 1930s with a 16-track collection of previously unheard arrangements by Eddie Sauter. He was the man who created respected and popular arrangements for vibraphonist Red Norvo and his wife, singer […]
Samara Joy’s recent concert at the Philharmonie de Paris showcased her remarkable talent as she promoted her “Portrait” album. At just twenty-five, she evokes legends like Ella Fitzgerald with impressive vocal range and technique. The two-hour performance, featuring both classic and contemporary styles, promises a captivating future album release.
Kim Wilson, renowned harmonica player and vocalist, leads The Fabulous Thunderbirds and has a successful solo career. His latest album, “Slow Burn,” features a mix of original songs and covers recorded live, showcasing various musicians. With seven Blues Music Awards, Wilson is celebrated as one of the greatest harmonica players today.
The album “The Free Slave” features jazz drummer Roy Brooks and showcases his influence on bebop, highlighting his compositional skills and melodic drumming. Produced by Zev Feldman, this 1972 recording captures the energy and creativity of Brooks and his notable bandmates, reflecting the complex Black American experience through jazz.
Raphaël Pannier Quartet’s live performance in Saint Louis, Senegal, merges American jazz with Senegalese Sabar music, drawing inspiration from Doudou N’Diaye Rose. Collaborating with master drummer Khadim Niang, they explore unique rhythms through pieces like “Lonely Woman” and “Take Five.” This innovative blend enriches cultural connections and showcases vibrant musical energy.
Whitney Ross-Barris is a Canadian singer-songwriter known for her engaging pop melodies and strong lyrics. Her album features a mix of catchy tunes and emotional blues, showcasing her vocal range. Highlights include “Up in the Night” and “Only at Night.” The album also features various skilled musicians enhancing her pop sound.
“Swinging in the Holidays” is a jazzy musical anthology featuring innovative covers of familiar holiday songs, including “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” and “Winter Wonderland.” Notable artists like Vanessa Perea, Wyatt Michael, and Champian Fulton bring diverse arrangements to life. The collection highlights sixteen festive tracks, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ledisi’s latest album, “For Dinah,” pays tribute to jazz legend Dinah Washington, showcasing her golden voice across genres. Featuring standout performances by Christian McBride and Gregory Porter, the album includes memorable renditions of classic tracks like “What A Difference a Day Makes.” Ledisi’s emotional depth makes this collection a remarkable homage.
Sean McDonald’s debut album, “Have Mercy!”, showcases his unique energy in blues and rock. At 23, the Augusta, Georgia native combines passion and skill, leading a talented band through diverse tracks. From soulful covers to original pieces, he revives traditional sounds with a fresh flair, proving himself a distinctive and promising artist.
Yuhan Su’s “Over the Moons” is her fifth album, featuring original compositions performed by an eight-piece ensemble that blends acoustic jazz and electronics. The album explores dual consciousness, reflecting Su’s Taiwanese and English identities. With innovative use of vibraphone effects, it showcases a balance of chaos and beauty, inviting listeners into her unique sound world.
Bobby Rozario’s second album “Healer” blends jazz, blues, and cultural influences from his Indian and Brazilian-Portuguese heritage. Featuring powerful themes of unity and healing, Rozario’s soulful voice, accompanied by a diverse ensemble, delivers vibrant tracks infused with contemporary rhythms, addressing world issues and encouraging a collective consciousness through music.
Chris Rottmayer’s album “Playing Favorites,” featuring Kelsey Wallner, showcases their jazz talents with a blend of familiar standards and original compositions. Rottmayer’s piano artistry complements Wallner’s expressive vocals, while the trio displays musical synergy. Highlights include engaging arrangements of “One Note Samba” and emotional performances, creating an enjoyable intimate jazz experience.
April Varner’s “Winter Songs Vol. 2,” produced by Ulysses Owens Jr., features a talented ensemble and revisits beloved holiday tunes. Showcasing Varner’s crystal-clear vocals and inventive arrangements, the album includes joyful tracks like “Holly Jolly Christmas” and “Run Run Rudolph.” This follow-up solidifies her status as a promising jazz vocalist.
Kenny Barron, an 14-time GRAMMY nominee, releases his first vocal album, “Songbook,” featuring 13 original compositions with lyrics by Janice Jarrett. The album showcases collaborations with notable contemporary jazz vocalists such as Cécile McLorin Salvant and Kurt Elling, demonstrating Barron’s artistic evolution in his later career, signaling potential accolades in the Jazz Vocal category.
Robert “Top” Thomas, a Florida blues musician, has evolved from youthful performances to a seasoned solo artist. His latest album, One Morning Soon, showcases a blend of original tracks and classic covers, highlighting his guitar prowess and heartfelt vocals. The work encapsulates the essence of traditional blues while infusing personal spirit and modern influences.
Bassist-composer Jakob Dreyer releases his third album, “Roots and Things,” featuring a new quartet that includes vibraphonist Sasha Berliner. Comprising 16 tracks, the album showcases a blend of jazzy introspection and unexpected swings, highlighting inventive compositions and a unique sound. Each musician contributes distinct perspectives, creating a refreshing auditory experience.
Greg Nagy’s fifth studio album, “Just A Little More Time,” fuses blues, soul, and R&B with emotional depth. Featuring five original tracks and five covers, Nagy’s expressive guitar and heartfelt vocals shine throughout. The album exemplifies his mastery of storytelling, showcasing personal insights and musical authenticity, marking a significant entry in contemporary blues.
Maria Corsaro’s album “Love Makes The Changes” showcases her unique fusion of jazz and cabaret. Raised in classical music, Corsaro’s performances feature intricate melodies and emotional storytelling. Collaborating with talented musicians, she delivers captivating renditions of classics, highlighting her vocal range and improvisational skills, appealing to both cabaret and jazz enthusiasts alike.
Kelsey Mines, an innovative jazz composer and bassist, showcases her talents in the album “Everything Sacred, Nothing Serious.” Featuring a skilled ensemble, including Elsa Nilsson and John Hansen, the music combines scat vocals, intricate harmonies, and improvisation. Mines’ unique style and creativity indicate a promising future in jazz.
Duwayne Burnside’s album “Red Rooster,” featuring Cody and Luther Dickinson and Jimbo Mathus, reflects his deep Mississippi blues roots and musical evolution. The collection maintains the essence of Hill Country influences while integrating modern sounds. Burnside pays homage to his musical heritage and showcases a vibrant blend of traditional and contemporary blues.
Billy Hart’s album “Multidirectional” features the Billy Hart Quartet, showcasing his original composition “Song for Balkis,” among other tracks. Hart’s drumming incorporates influences from John Coltrane and avant-garde jazz. With over two decades as a group, their seamless connection enhances the live performance experience, reflecting Hart’s continued artistic growth at age 85.
The Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra, founded in 2013, presents “The Nutcracker Remix,” a contemporary jazz reinterpretation of Tchaikovsky’s classic. Under Rob Parton’s direction, the ensemble infuses samba and hip-hop elements. Featuring tracks like “Pistachio March” and vocalist Mandy Gaines on holiday songs, this album offers a vibrant holiday listening experience.
Sean Mason’s album, A Breath of Fresh Air, showcases his deep knowledge of early jazz while exploring diverse forms. Collaborating with talented musicians, Mason emphasizes self-expression and contemporary culture. The music blends traditional sounds with modern influences, celebrating themes of resilience, connection, and self-discovery throughout various tracks, culminating in a cohesive listening experience.
Texas-born Steve Howell, a master of early acoustic blues, teams up with versatile multi-instrumentalist Fats Kaplin in their album “Know You From Old.” Their thirteen heartfelt duets blend folk, blues, gospel, and jazz, celebrating the roots of American music while honoring timeless traditions and preserving musical history.
Miss Emily’s album “The Medicine” showcases her powerful blues and soul vocals, blending themes of hope, community, and resilience. Produced by Colin Linden, it features nine tracks, primarily co-written by her. The songs express personal struggles, love, and survival, with an emphasis on unity and overcoming adversity, ultimately delivering an empowering message.
Emmylou Harris’s live album Spyboy, originally performed with a slimmed-down band, showcases a harder edge compared to the ethereal Wrecking Ball. This reissue includes five unreleased tracks and highlights the dynamic performances of Harris and her band, emphasizing improvisation and emotion. Fans are encouraged to explore this remastered gem.
Domo Branch’s album “Hand of Gifts” reflects his gratitude for music amid life’s challenges. Featuring skilled musicians, the album includes dynamic tracks like “Harlem Nights” and heartfelt pieces like “A Letter to Peanut.” Branch, an emerging voice in contemporary jazz, blends creativity with emotional depth throughout the recording.
Stephane Wrembel’s album “Hors Série” with Django New Orleans II celebrates the intersection of French and New Orleans music. Featuring diverse arrangements, it includes reimagined classics like “Libertango” and “La Vie En Rose,” showcasing Wrembel’s talent as a guitarist and vocalist. The ensemble delivers a refreshing, joyful tribute to Django Reinhardt’s legacy.
The Raphael Pannier Quartet collaborates with Khadim Niang’s Sabar Group, merging jazz with Senegalese sabar drumming for a groundbreaking live album from the Saint Louis International Jazz Festival. This unique fusion honors master drummer Doudou N’Diaye Rose and features reimagined jazz classics, showcasing cultural intersections in music and community spirit.
Tommy Talton’s album “Seven Levels” reflects his artistic journey, emotional depth, and the context of a fractured America. Collaborating with friends, he produced a rich sound, blending southern rock and blues. Despite health struggles, he completed this project before his passing on December 28, 2023, leaving behind a poignant legacy.