CD Reviews

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 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. […]

Shunzo Ohno’s album, “Live at Joe’s Pub,” captures the essence of his live performances in New York City, showcasing his unique blend of jazz and classical influences. Despite overcoming significant health challenges, Ohno’s trumpet artistry and orchestration radiate beauty and hope, highlighted in tracks like “Going Home” and “Vision.”

Mal Waldron’s “Stardust & Starlight” showcases his exceptional piano talent alongside bassist Steve Rodby and drummer Wilbur Campbell, with special guest Sonny Stitt on alto saxophone. The performance weaves emotive arrangements of jazz standards, emphasizing Waldron’s unique style and individuality. The album celebrates Waldron’s legacy and remarkable collaborations throughout his career.

The Emie R Roussel Trio’s album “Terr” explores themes of unity and shared human experiences through contemporary jazz infused with rock and classical influences. Led by pianist Emie R Roussel, the album features rich instrumentation and memorable compositions, including tributes to influential figures in the jazz community.

The album “Two Nights Live” features Steven Husted and his band, showcasing their talent through classic jazz standards and original compositions. Husted, an accomplished bassist, leads the ensemble in lively performances that emphasize swinging tempos and individual musicianship. The collection includes eight original tracks, capturing the essence of jazz tradition.

Owen Chen’s album “Eternal Wind” features a jazz ensemble reinterpreting iconic Studio Ghibli film scores, led by guitars with harmonica, piano, and drums. The project merges Asian American experiences with jazz, offering enjoyable, laid-back arrangements of beloved melodies. Fans and new listeners alike will appreciate this unique homage to Ghibli’s music.

The triple album “Alight Upon the Lake” features Yusef Lateef alongside jazz legends Kenny Barron, Bob Cunningham, and Tootie Heath. It captures live performances filled with emotion and creativity, showcasing compositions like “Golden Goddess” and “Yusef’s Mood.” The set celebrates Lateef’s artistry and his significant contributions to jazz history.

Shawn Maxwell’s “Frenetic Domain” is a unique jazz-classical hybrid album featuring renowned musicians, including female classical saxophonist Chika Inoue. Inspired by Vandoren’s artist program, Maxwell blends structured compositions with improvisational elements. The album showcases pieces that embody tranquility and innovation, reflecting his musical journey as a clarinetist.

Jesse Davis Quartet’s album “Reflections” showcases a blend of bebop and New Orleans blues, featuring Davis on alto saxophone alongside talented musicians Spike Wilner, John Webber, and Lewis Nash. Each track shines with individual solos and emotional depth, highlighting Davis’s distinctive style and impressive compositions over four decades in jazz.

The Joymakers, a ten-piece ensemble from Austin, Texas, led by Colin Hancock, celebrates the music of the 1920s and 1930s. They blend ragtime, early blues, and country traditions, delivering joyful performances. The band expands on their original seven members, capturing the vibrant essence of historic music with vibrant arrangements and engaging vocals.

Terry Callier’s performance at The Earl of Old Town in Chicago on October 24, 1967, captures the essence of an artist before his first record release. Recorded by Joe Segal, the album features a blend of folk, jazz, and blues. It showcases Callier’s remarkable guitar and vocal talent, reflecting the vibrant 1960s music scene.

Tomas Janzon, a guitarist and composer, blends classical and jazz influences in his album “Jazz Diary.” Featuring melodic pieces shaped by daily entries, the work highlights bassist Nedra Wheeler’s essential role. With intricate grooves and improvisational flair, the album presents a rich exploration of Janzon’s musical journey and Swedish roots.

Stacey and Al Schulman blend traditional jazz with contemporary hip hop in their album “Crazy World.” Featuring various musicians, they reinterpret classic songs while introducing original compositions. Their energetic performances highlight Stacey’s vibrant vocals and Al’s guitar mastery, culminating in a lyrical exploration of love and unity in a diverse musical landscape.

Joe Henderson’s “Consonance” features an electrifying performance at Chicago’s Jazz Showcase, showcasing saxophonist Henderson alongside pianist Joanne Brackeen, bassist Steve Rodby, and drummer Danny Spencer. Their music is characterized by its spontaneity and emotional depth, celebrating improvisation and artistic freedom. The album’s urgency and brilliance captivate listeners, remaining timeless.

Richard Andersson’s album “Monk & More” features a talented European jazz quartet revisiting works by jazz legends including Thelonious Monk and Ornette Coleman. With smooth melodies and intricate improvisations, the album showcases each musician’s skills, particularly Andersson’s captivating double bass solos. This energetic and engaging album is a delightful experience from start to finish.

Anthony Branker’s album “Manifestations of a Diasporic Groove & Spirit” features compositions that reflect on cultural identity and social issues. Notable tracks include “The Children of Lyles Station,” which recounts a tragic historical event, and “Stolen Sisters,” honoring indigenous women missing or murdered. Branker’s work merges music with deep storytelling.

The album “Plaid Pants” by Ron Cyger and Brent Butterworth showcases their compositional partnership, featuring a mix of original tunes and diverse musical styles. With contributions from various percussionists, the album highlights their collaboration and musical chemistry, blending jazz elements with Latin and blues influences for a celebratory experience.