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.
Allan Harris’s second live album, “The Poetry of Jazz: Live at Blue Llama,” showcases his remarkable ability to blend jazz, poetry, and original compositions. Featuring renowned poets and classic pieces, Harris delivers emotive performances, demonstrating his deep connection to Harlem’s history and his artistic versatility. The album is a profound exploration of themes like love and resistance.
Entre Amigos, a Chicago supergroup, releases their second album, “Magpie: The Music of Joe Clark,” featuring compositions by Joe Clark. The quartet displays a blend of styles, led by saxophonist Roy McGrath and pianist Hana Fujisaki. Their dynamic performances pay tribute to Clark’s diverse musical legacy, showcasing exceptional musicianship.
Debbie Bond, a blues musician with roots in California and West Africa, has made significant contributions to the blues genre. Influenced by artists like Johnny Shines and Willie King, she combines traditional sounds with modern elements. Her performance showcases original songs and covers, reflecting her journey as an activist and artist.
“Standard Deviation” is the second album by drummer Mike Clark and saxophonist Mike Zilber, featuring a New York ensemble. The quartet reimagines jazz standards and classics with innovative arrangements, challenging yet inviting. Highlights include “Blues for Chambers” and a funky “Hallelujah.” The album captures a blend of tradition and fresh interpretations.
Daniel DeLorenzo’s album features original compositions blending traditional jazz with contemporary grooves. The trio, including Casey Toll and Theous Jones, showcases a strong camaraderie and highlights DeLorenzo’s unique guitar technique. Tracks like “Clam Chowder” and “Emergently” captivate with catchy melodies, while “Windfall” ventures into a contemporary jazz style.
Qualified Records has released three new albums showcasing American roots and blues music, highlighting artists like Mike Henderson and Yates McKendree. Their focus on authenticity and artist growth is notable. Henderson’s live album captures his dynamic performances, while McKendree’s sophomore effort exhibits his blossoming talent and captivating guitar skills, alongside Big Shoes’ engaging originals and covers.
Victoria Cardona, a multi-talented singer and songwriter, showcases her Cuban heritage in her debut album “Que Pasó.” Blending vibrant rhythms and heartfelt lyrics, she explores themes of resilience and escape from communist Cuba. With a mix of instruments and rich harmonies, Cardona’s music is infectious and dance-worthy, promising broader recognition.
Ron Rieder’s album “Dia Precioso!” showcases eight original compositions infused with Latin jazz, featuring arrangements by Ricardo Monzón and performed by top Boston musicians. The album blends Afro-Cuban rhythms, sambas, and tangos, creating a vibrant listening experience. Notable tracks include “Beautiful Day,” “I Fell into a Meme,” and “Dizzy Hechizo.”
Nick Biello’s album “New America” showcases his original compositions that blend jazz with classical and Latin influences. Notable tracks include “Bel Canto,” “Queen of Jordan,” and “Before the Flood,” highlighting the talents of Biello and his ensemble. The music evokes a range of emotions, celebrating inclusion and joy through expertly crafted melodies.
Camila Meza’s album “Portal” showcases her bilingual, jazz-infused sound, enriched with Latin American and electronic influences. Featuring original compositions inspired by her personal journey through motherhood, her soothing vocals and guitar work blend beautifully. With contributions from notable musicians, the album invites meditation and spans genres, highlighting Meza’s unique artistry.
Grupo Pagan, led by Edgar Pagan, fuses Latin and rock music with jazz influences. With over twenty years of performance, their album “Power,” produced by GRAMMY winner Jimmy Haslip, showcases original compositions featuring hypnotic vocals and diverse rhythms. The group delivers captivating, energetic music that resonates with contemporary society.
Kaze, a unique avant-garde quartet featuring notable musicians including Koichi Makigami, Satoko Fujii, and Christian Pruvost, showcases an innovative blend of improvisation and vocals. Their album includes tracks with whimsical elements, such as “Make A Change,” which highlights Makigami’s extraordinary vocal range. The music promises surprising creativity and humor.
Tessa Souter’s album “Shadows and Silence: The Erik Satie Project” celebrates the centennial of composer Erik Satie’s death. Showcasing her lyrical prowess and blending French and English, Souter delivers stunning interpretations. The project evokes deep emotion, featuring collaborations and originally penned lyrics, marking it as a significant artistic achievement in jazz music.
Jeff Chaz, born in Louisiana, is a prominent figure in Southern music, transitioning from trombone and trumpet to guitar and vocals. He’s known for his collaborations with blues legends and his award-winning performances. His new EP, “Apartment 14,” features a mix of rhythmic instrumentals and soulful lyrics, showcasing his mastery in blues music.
The Toy Factory Project made its debut at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, presenting a blend of southern rock and bluegrass. Led by drummer Paul T. Riddle, the ensemble honored the legacy of Toy Caldwell, featuring renowned musicians. The concert captivated a crowd of 12,000 while reviving classic songs with a fresh take.
Doug MacLeod, a blues musician born in 1946, overcame a challenging childhood, using music to express and connect. Notable for his unique storytelling and soulful voice, he has released numerous albums, winning several Blues Music Awards. His latest works, “Raw Blues 1” and “Raw Blues 2,” continue his legacy, bridging blues history with fresh themes.
Jennifer Lee’s album “Glimpse,” her fourth release, showcases her evolution as a composer and vocalist. Collaborating with guitarist Peter Sprague, the album features original songs and tributes to her husband. Lee’s warm, Brazilian-influenced voice and songwriting shine throughout, marking a significant growth since her earlier works.
From the Dirt, a bluegrass band from Central Maryland, blends genres with rich vocal harmonies and introspective songwriting. Fronted by Daniel Kenny, their album “Colored Edge of Memory” explores themes of heartache and resilience through varied instrumentation. Notable tracks range from haunting ballads to upbeat tunes, showcasing their musical versatility.
Pianist Charles Chen’s album “Building Characters” explores character portraits in jazz, paying tribute to influential musicians. Each track evokes a musician and fictional character, blending styles from Duke Ellington to modern influences. The ensemble features prominent artists, delivering passionate solos and indelible melodies, fulfilling jazz tradition while celebrating Asian-American Heritage Month.
Patrick Zimmerli TRIO’s album “Songs of Innocence,” features original compositions blending sincerity and complexity. Tracks like “60 Morningside” and “Wedding Song” showcase uplifting melodies, while “Dreamscape” explores the darker realms of dreams. The energetic “Torsion” highlights the dynamic interplay between piano and sax, concluding with a strikingly abrupt finish.
Ross Thorn, an Americana singer-songwriter from Wisconsin, releases his second album “Tries Fitting In” on August 8th, 2024, following his debut “Hugo.” Featuring themes of empathy and inclusion, the album showcases Thorn’s unique sound with instrumental support. He expresses hope for connection and belonging through his music.
Saul Dautch’s album “Music for the People” showcases his baritone saxophone skills, influenced by jazz legends. The quintet features varied compositions, including original pieces and a tribute to mentor Pepper Adams. Dautch’s heartfelt liner notes reflect gratitude for his journey in music over five years in New York City.
Sumi Tonooka’s “Under the Surface” features the Alchemy Sound Project, expanding her trio into a septet. The album, inspired by tree roots’ collaboration, showcases masterful compositions and performances, particularly highlighting Tonooka’s innovative piano work alongside talented musicians. The diverse interplay and arrangements create an engaging musical experience.
Noah Haidu’s “Standards III” features a fresh trio alongside veteran musicians, resulting in a diverse mix recorded in multiple studios. Highlights include original tracks and classic standards, showcasing both emerging talents and established artists. While the album has its strengths, it falls short compared to Haidu’s previous works, yet invites anticipation for future projects.
Maria Muldaur, known for her hit “Midnight on the Oasis,” explores American Roots Music in her album “One Hour Mama: The Blues Of Victoria Spivey.” Acknowledged as a trailblazer, Muldaur’s diverse musical journey includes collaborations with notable artists. This project showcases her emotional depth and commitment to the blues genre.
A Tribute to the King of Zydeco celebrates Clifton Chenier’s influence on American music, featuring The Rolling Stones and various artists honoring his legacy. The album, produced by C.C. Adcock, combines zydeco with artists’ diverse styles while supporting a scholarship in Chenier’s name. It highlights his innovative contributions and vibrant musical spirit.
Jeff Walton’s debut album “Pack Animals” showcases his late blooming career as a tenor saxophonist and composer. A former public school teacher, Walton incorporates diverse influences from choral music and improvisation. The album features dynamic pieces like “NQT” and “Blues for George,” reflecting his musical community and personal history.
Julian Shore’s album “Sub Rosa,” featuring Martin Nevin on bass and Allan Mednard on drums, is an original jazz collection characterized by its mysterious, abstract compositions. The album showcases Shore’s evolution with his bandmates, highlighting intricate solos and emotional depth that invites personal connections, making it a significant contribution to contemporary jazz.
Benny Benack III, a charismatic trumpeter-vocalist-composer, shines in his live album “This is the Life.” Recently recognized as a leading rising star, he showcases his talents alongside family and peers. The album features original compositions and standards, highlighting Benack’s joyful energy, versatile vocals, and impressive musicianship in a vibrant performance.
Transcendence, a trio featuring Bob Gluck, Christopher Dean Sullivan, and Karl Latham, pays tribute to Pat Metheny by interpreting five of his compositions alongside works by Keith Jarrett and Herbie Hancock. The album showcases their innovative sound, with Gluck using synthesizers to evoke Metheny’s guitar style and Sullivan’s prominent bass solos.
Ben Sidran’s album “Are We There Yet – Live at the Sunside” features a dozen tracks, with nine original compositions showcasing his unique blend of jazz and philosophical lyrics. Recorded in Paris, the album reflects Sidran’s enduring career, emphasizing his thought-provoking songs and the dynamic performances of his ensemble, despite some excessive monologues.
The Boneshakers, led by Randy Jacobs, release their new album “Live To Be This” on Gulf Coast Records, showcasing vibrant blues, soul, and rock. Featuring powerhouse vocalist Jenny Langer and an all-star guest lineup, the album honors their legacy with innovative originals and reimagined covers, melding Detroit soul with Southern influences.
Mira Choquette, a multi-lingual vocalist, collaborates with Armenian jazz musicians, including pianist Samvel Gasparyan, to create a diverse jazz album. Their performances of classic songs showcase emotional depth and cultural fusion. The project evolved from a duo concept to a fuller ensemble, reflecting the unique atmosphere of Armenia.
Itai Kriss’s album “Daybreak” showcases his talents as a flautist and composer. Featuring an ensemble with Adam Birnbaum, Luke Sellick, and special guests, the album captures the progression of a day through vivid melodies, jazz improvisations, and diverse musical styles, concluding with a joyous gospel piece, “In the Light.”
Amina Claudine Myers, celebrated as a NEA Jazz Master, blends her gospel roots with avant-garde influences in her album “Solace of the Mind.” Featuring original compositions like “African Blues” and reimagined tunes, her music evokes meditation and emotional depth, reflecting her rich musical journey within the AACM and beyond.
Meltem Ege’s album “Solitude” merges English and Turkish lyrics, reflecting her cultural roots and emotional complexity. Featuring jazz and pop elements, it includes collaborations with international musicians and showcases Ege’s dynamic vocal style. Notable tracks like “Anlayana” and “Aklinda Kalmasin” highlight her creativity, blending genres and influences seamlessly.
Teskey is an independent blues band formed in 2024, featuring Brandon Teskey, Brandon Gaddy, Matt Baldwin, and Peter Murphy. Their debut album “White Wolf” includes eleven original songs addressing themes such as heartbreak and resilience. The emotive instrumentals and lyrics reflect personal struggles, especially Teskey’s wife’s battle with cancer.
Joe Kennedy collaborates with the David Hughes Quartet on “Time Travel,” featuring original compositions and jazz standards. The album showcases Kennedy’s piano and organ skills, highlighted in tracks like “Tony’s Turnaround” and “Mineshaft.” The quintet delivers a captivating blend of influences, enriched by strong solos from featured musicians.
The album “Llegue” by Jason T. Reddish revisits the legacy of his father’s band, Reddish Fetish, which fused jazz, rock, and world music in the 1960s. Featuring various talented musicians, it revitalizes classic tunes and incorporates fresh arrangements, showcasing Reddish’s journey as a bandleader and producer in contemporary jazz.
Something Blue highlights the evolution of Posi-Tone Records, founded by Marc Free and Nick O’Toole. The label, renowned for straight-ahead jazz, celebrates its 30th anniversary with an album featuring compositions from the ‘90s, interpreted by a talented sextet. The musicians showcase vibrant performances, blending traditional and contemporary jazz influences seamlessly.
Cassie Taylor, daughter of blues artist Otis Taylor, returns with a new album exploring gospel-infused blues and soul after a decade away from music due to mental health struggles. The ensemble features notable tracks like “Downward Road” and “Respect Yourself,” showcasing her journey of reclaiming identity in her artistic legacy.
Willie Nile, born Robert Noonan, is a Buffalo-native musician celebrated for his 21st album, “The Great Yellow Light.” Produced with Stewart Lerman, it features a blend of rock and poignant lyrics across various tracks. Nile has garnered a devoted following and admiration from notable artists, emphasizing his influence in modern music.
D.K. Harrell, born in 1998 in Louisiana, is a rising blues artist who grew up influenced by legends like B.B. King. He debuted with “The Right Man” in 2023, earning acclaim and awards. His album showcases his songwriting skills and features a blend of emotional tracks that reflect personal and societal themes.
Paloma Dineli Chesky’s album features her sweet vocals paired with a blend of jazz and pop influences, showcasing her original compositions and unique stylistic sound. Collaborating with skilled musicians, she explores various genres, including Brazilian and American folk. However, some arrangements may not fully enhance her songwriting potential, suggesting a need for professional input.
Kathy Sanborn’s album “Romance Language” features her lead vocals, piano, and original compositions, showcasing her smoky, inviting voice. While the extensive layering of her harmonies and programming work well, hiring a full jazz ensemble could elevate her promising songwriting further. The album highlights her multilingual singing and smooth melodies.
“Portrait of a Moment” features the dynamic jazz trio of Tommaso Perazzo (piano), Marcello Cardillo (drums), and Buster Williams (bass). The album showcases their creative synergy through original compositions like “Back at the Right Spot” and the beautiful ballad “Christina.” Each piece reflects their unique blend of talent, emphasizing intergenerational jazz.
James McMurtry’s album, The Black Dog and the Wandering Boy, showcases his lyrical prowess with ten exceptional tracks that blend personal stories with societal critiques. Collaborating with talented musicians, he creates a spontaneous sound. The album’s covers and original songs poignantly explore themes of disillusionment and identity, marking a significant contribution to Americana music.
The album “Basie Rocks!” features Deborah Silver with The Count Basie Orchestra, blending rock music with big band jazz. It opens with a vibrant arrangement of a Rolling Stones hit and includes notable collaborations with artists like Peter Frampton and Kurt Elling, showcasing Silver’s impressive vocal style and the orchestra’s talent.
Bobby West’s album “Requiem for Mary Turner” features a poignant tribute to the lynching of Mary Turner, a victim of racial violence. With a 22-piece orchestra, West captures the emotional weight of history through evocative compositions like “Spirit Move Sunrise” and “Never Let Me Go,” showcasing healing and hope amidst despair.
Danish jazz vocalist Marie Mǿrck releases a joyful album featuring uplifting standards and engaging arrangements. With a voice reminiscent of classic artists, she showcases her talent through songs like “Look for the Silver Lining” and “Like Someone in Love,” blending sincerity and emotion. The album delights and inspires listeners.