Caili O’Doherty’s album “Bluer Than Blue – Celebrating Lil Hardin Armstrong” features arrangements of Armstrong’s tunes, showcasing her significant yet overlooked influence on jazz. Collaborating with talented musicians, O’Doherty honors Hardin’s legacy through engaging performances of both popular and lesser-known pieces, blending rich historical context with contemporary interpretations.
The Seldom Scene, a renowned bluegrass band, celebrates over fifty years of musical evolution with their new album “Remains to Be Scene.” Featuring a mix of traditional and contemporary songs, the album honors founding member Ben Eldridge and showcases the current lineup’s talent, solidifying the band’s influential legacy in bluegrass history.
Mike Farris returns with his album The Sound of Muscle Shoals after a seven-year hiatus, featuring nine original songs and two covers. Produced by Rodney Hall, the album showcases Farris’s dynamic voice and rich instrumentation. It captures the essence of southern soul, proving to be his most accomplished work to date.
HOME PAGE Making a Scene Presents an Interview with YEV! SLAVA UKRAINE YEV’s self-titled debut album is a poignant and powerful introduction to the artist’s dynamic voice, blending cinematic folk rock, modern blues, vintage pop, and the soulful resonance of his Ukrainian heritage. Each song offers a captivating narrative that weaves haunting melodies and raw […]
Gerry Casey interviews Will Bart of the Long Island band Johnny in the Basement, highlighting Bart’s passion for rock music and his journey. Influenced by the Roots Rock Revival event, where he connects with esteemed musicians, Bart envisions a promising future for his band, fueled by collaboration and ambition.
Mitch Ryder’s latest album “With Love,” released on February 21, 2025, showcases his enduring artistry across ten autobiographical tracks. Produced by Don Was, the album reflects Ryder’s blue-collar rock roots with themes of love, addiction, and camaraderie. Despite his long career, Ryder continues to strive for artistic growth and connection.
Making a Scene showcases an interview with Crooked Eyed Tommy about his collaboration with Croatian harmonica player Tomislav Goluban. Supported by Croatia’s Ministry of Culture, their project includes songs mainly written by Goluban. Both artists have impressive backgrounds, performing extensively in Europe and the U.S., and blending various musical influences.
Isabelle Olivier’s album “Impressions” pays homage to impressionism, merging elegance and minimalism within her harp compositions. Featuring her sons and a rich string ensemble, the project celebrates artists like Van Gogh and Cezanne, exploring emotions and inspirations from art. Olivier strives to evoke profound feelings through her music.
Micki Free, a Grammy-winning artist and Native American Hall of Fame inductee, releases a five-song EP titled “Dreamcatcher.” The record showcases his diverse talents, including guitar, vocals, and flute, featuring notable musicians like Benny Rietveld and Cindy Blackman Santana. Free’s work promotes healing and advocacy for the Native American community.
Bob Bralove and Patti Weiss’s album, Acoustic Conversations, features mostly composed improvisational jazz recorded live without overdubs. Their bond, formed through past collaborations and pandemic reconnecting, shines in pieces that blend classical and jazz elements. The album showcases their musical dialogue, resulting in expressive tracks with a cinematic quality.
Sylvie Courvoisier and Mary Halvorson, two acclaimed musicians, collaborate on “Bone Bells,” blending contemporary chamber music and avant-garde jazz. Each composes alternating tracks, creating an evocative soundscape. Highlights include the haunting title track and the unpredictable “Esmeralda.” Their synergy showcases a dynamic fusion of unique talents, akin to a perfect culinary pairing.
Steve Kelly’s debut album, “Here’s the Thing,” reflects his personal struggles with mental health and addiction, alongside triumphs in the music industry. Collaborating with notable musicians from New Orleans, Kelly explores themes of love, self-worth, and resilience in his diverse tracks. The album showcases his evolving style, balancing energetic and introspective songs.
“Every Journey” is Claire Cope’s second album featuring her Ensemble C, premiering on March 8, 2025, to honor International Women’s Day. The album celebrates courageous women, celebrating their daring journeys through compositions inspired by figures like Bessie Coleman. With lush arrangements and Brigitte Beraha’s ethereal vocals, Cope blends contemporary classical and jazz.
The album “Jazz We Trust” celebrates Posi-Tone Records’ 30th anniversary, featuring a talented septet called the Swingtet. The record showcases compositions primarily by the ensemble members, highlighting energetic pieces, intricate rhythms, and reflective ballads. The album culminates in a vibrant display of musicianship, paying tribute to the label’s legacy.
Simón Willson, a Chilean-born bassist based in NYC, showcases a dynamic live performance at Brooklyn’s Ornithology Jazz Club with his quartet. Throughout the album “Bet,” the group explores risk and improvisation, combining energetic solos and cohesive rhythms. The recording captures the intensity and excitement of live jazz, leaving the audience captivated.
Sasha Berliner’s album “Fantôme” showcases her remarkable skills as a vibraphonist and composer. With dynamic performances and original compositions, she blends jazz genres, encouraging listeners to embrace her free-spirited sound. Highlights include the energetic “U.M.M.G.” and the tender “Worst Person in the World,” reflecting her musical evolution and unique style.
Murray Attaway, born November 30, 1957, is an American musician, known as the lead singer and guitarist for Guadalcanal Diary. After the band’s breakup, he released the solo album “In Thrall” in 1993 and created the podcast “Dazzle Dudes” in 2019. Attaway’s poetic songwriting is showcased in “Tense Music Plays.”
Geoff Achison, a talented musician from Victoria, Australia, began his musical journey with an old guitar discovered at home. Mentored by jazz musician Alan Watson, he developed a unique style blending blues with various genres. After moving to Melbourne, he gained recognition, released several albums, and became a respected educator, inspiring younger musicians.
Eric Johanson, a gifted blues guitarist from New Orleans, has gained acclaim for his soulful music since high school. His live album captures the energy of his performance in Biloxi. Featuring original songs and collaborative tracks, Johanson emphasizes the authenticity of live recordings, sharing heartfelt experiences with his audience.
Florida-born Sean Chambers began his blues career in 1998, touring with Hubert Sumlin until 2003. Noted as one of the top 50 blues guitarists, Chambers released his acclaimed album “Ten Til Midnight” in 2009. His latest work, “That’s What I’m Talkin About,” features guest musicians and pays tribute to Sumlin.
Geoff Achison’s album “Don’t Play Guitar Boy” showcases his exceptional guitar skills and songwriting in an acoustic format without overdubs. The twelve original songs blend folk and blues, reflecting his personal experiences and emotions. Achison’s artistry resonates deeply, drawing comparisons to notable musicians while celebrating his 30-year career in music.
The Bigger Badder Bones, featuring André Hayward, showcases an exciting blend of blues and Latin-inspired tunes in their latest album “Sliders.” With talented contributors on trombone, piano, bass, and drums, each composition reflects the life experiences of composer Brett Stamps. The album highlights impressive arrangements and exceptional performances throughout.
The Yellowjackets’ 27th album, “Fasten Up,” showcases the band’s genre-defying style through a mix of compositions from its current quartet. With members contributing their unique sounds, the album blends soul-jazz, traditional fusion, and electronic elements, resulting in varied tracks that highlight their evolution over four decades.
“The Definitive Albert White” celebrates Albert White’s seventy-year musical career and his thirty years with Music Maker. Produced by Jimbo Mathus, the album features notable covers and showcases White’s unique style. With expressive vocals and guitar work, this collection reflects his rich history and artistry in the blues genre.
David “Kid” Ramos, a California-born guitarist, has a rich musical legacy spanning from the 1980s. He formed significant collaborations, notably with The Fabulous Thunderbirds. Diagnosed with Ewing’s sarcoma in 2012 yet later declared cancer-free, Ramos released “Strange Things Happening,” a gospel-blues album featuring heartfelt collaborations and inspirations from his life journey.
Steve Allee’s “Naptown Sound” showcases the vibrant jazz legacy of Indianapolis, featuring compositions predominantly by Allee himself. The album boasts dynamic arrangements with guest conductor John Clayton and talented musicians. Notable tracks include “Spang a Lang” and “Naptown Nights,” highlighting Allee’s innovative style and rhythmic energy, celebrating the city’s cultural evolution.
Pianist Ross Lossing’s album “Moon Inhabitants” reflects his innovative approach to the conventional piano trio format. Blending originals with compositions by Ornette Coleman and Tchaikovsky, the trio creates a weightless musical experience. The album showcases their unique improvisational style, highlighting the interplay between rhythm and melody while embracing free expression.
The Twangtown Paramours, a Nashville-based duo of Mike T. Lewis and MaryBeth Zamer, blend Americana, Folk, and Blues in their acclaimed music. Their upcoming album, The Wind Will Change Again, features their best acoustic songs to date, showcasing a range of emotions and impeccable musicianship, all while maintaining a lighthearted approach to life.
“Positive Energy” by the Greg Abate Quartet features seasoned jazz musicians delivering an uplifting album filled with original compositions. Greg Abate’s alto sax, John Rangel’s piano, Terry Burns’ bass, and David Post’s drums create an engaging sound. The music captures the vibrant New Mexico jazz scene while channeling resilience during the pandemic.
Sunny War’s new album, “Armageddon in a Summer Dress,” follows her breakthrough “Anarchist Gospel” and features several notable guests. Inspired by eerie experiences in her father’s old house, the album examines themes of memory and loss, blending punk and Americana influences. While some production choices overshadow her vocals, War’s talent shines through.
Rodney Whitaker collaborates with composer Gregg Hill in “Mosaic: the Music of Gregg Hill,” showcasing a talented jazz quintet featuring notable musicians. This album highlights Hill’s unique compositions, blending complex melodies with diverse influences. Each track offers intricate arrangements and captivating performances, establishing the project as exceptional contemporary jazz.
Peter White’s 17th album, “Light of Day,” released on February 14, 2025, celebrates his 50th anniversary as a musician. Featuring original songs reflecting love and optimism, White’s diverse instrumentation showcases his signature fingerstyle guitar. The album offers introspective tracks alongside joyful melodies, creating a soothing Smooth Jazz experience.
Noah Preminger’s album “Ballads” showcases his talent as a tenor saxophonist, blending original compositions with classic covers. Featuring a quartet, he emphasizes deep emotion through the ballad format, moving away from his usual intense style. The album includes pieces like “Unfair World” and a notable rendition of “Someone to Watch Over Me.”
Nikki O’Neill, a Chicago-based R&B/Americana artist, is set to release her third album, “Stories I Only Tell My Friends.” Co-produced with Rich Lackowski, the album combines live recordings and diversity in sound, reflecting her upbringing and influences. It features the lead single “Drive” and explores themes of personal growth and resilience.
François Couturier and Dominique Pifarély’s album “Preludes and Songs” blends classical and avant-garde jazz, creating a serene musical experience. Their long-standing partnership enriches the performance with emotional depth and improvisational freedom. The album highlights their mastery through pieces like “A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square,” showcasing the essence of jazz as America’s classical music.
Frank Carlberg’s “Dream Machine” features a unique jazz quintet with two keyboards, blending written and improvised pieces inspired by dreams and memories. With varied compositions, the album explores a spectrum of emotions and soundscapes, from nostalgic to avant-garde, incorporating diverse musical influences and highlighting the interplay between structure and improvisation.
Kinan Azmeh, a Syrian composer and clarinetist based in Brooklyn, presents his quartet CityBand in a profound exploration of Arab jazz. His compositions, influenced by the Syrian uprising, convey emotional connections to his homeland. The album reflects themes of hope, freedom, and cultural roots, combining artistry to address global atrocities.
Max Hightower, hailing from South Carolina, discovered his passion for music at twelve with Muddy Waters’ blues. Transforming from harmonica to various instruments, he co-founded Plate Full O’ Blues and tours internationally. His debut album “Nothin’ but the Truth” features original tracks recorded live in New Orleans, celebrating the essence of funk and blues.
Dean Zucchero, a bassist and songwriter from New York, released his new album “Song For The Sinners” in 2023 after his debut topped the Billboard Blues Chart. Produced by Jake Eckert in New Orleans, the album features diverse guest artists and explores themes of romance, loss, and existential reflections through original lyrics.
Madeline Rosene is an indie pop-n-roll singer-songwriter recognized for her sharp wit and genre-blending sound. Her debut album, “Raised on Porn,” addresses societal disconnect, while “Everyday Existential Crisis” delves into introspection. Collaborating with notable artists, she captivates audiences through thought-provoking lyrics and compelling performances, establishing herself as a distinctive voice in music.
Mosaic: the Music of Gregg Hill features acclaimed bassist Rodney Whitaker’s arrangements of ten compositions by Gregg Hill, showcasing a talented ensemble. With notable performances from trumpeter Terell Stafford and saxophonist Tim Warfield, the album blends various jazz influences, emphasizing intricate melodies and improvisation. The result is high-caliber, straight-ahead jazz.
Ariane Racicot’s album “Dancing With Fire” showcases her award-winning talent as a jazz pianist and composer. Blending classical, jazz, Latin, and metal influences, her compositions evoke a range of emotions. The album features strong collaborations with bassist Antoine Rochefort and drummer Guillaume Picard, creating a dramatic and textured sound experience.
The Perceptions Trio, debuting with “The Wicked Crew,” blends jazz and pop influences through compositions by saxophonist Charley Rose, guitarist Silvan Joray, and drummer Paulo Almeida. Their ten-track album features a mix of meditative and energetic pieces, characterized by ethereal soundscapes and intricate interplay, marking a promising beginning for this Swiss trio.
Rev. Peyton’s Big Damn Band releases their 12th album, “Honeysuckle,” featuring a blend of original and classic country blues. The vibrant sound is crafted at their Kentucky home, showcasing Rev. Peyton’s powerful storytelling and musicianship. With guest artists and raw energy, they celebrate the blues’ enduring legacy and innovation.
Ra’Shad The Blues Kid’s fourth album, “Live In Clarkdale,” showcases his blend of southern soul, Delta Blues, and country blues. Raised in Laurel, Mississippi, he captivates audiences worldwide with original songs reflecting themes of joy and heartbreak. Notably, his band secured second place at the prestigious 2025 International Blues Challenge in Memphis.
OVERHAUL is a Rock, Grunge, Alternative Rock band from Scotland, formed in 1997 by Andy Gallagher. With influences from U.S. coasts and Scotland, they have released five albums and toured extensively across Europe. Known for energetic live performances, they attract fans of bands like Nirvana and Aerosmith with their catchy sound.
Ed Alstrom, a musician from New Jersey, began his music journey at age five. He has been a Music Director at Central Presbyterian Church since 2016 and has a diverse performance background, including work on Broadway and with notable artists. He also contributed to Casio’s keyboard division and engages in local theater organ performances.
Deepstaria Enigmatica The Eternal Now Is the Heart of a New Tomorrow ESP-Disc What do you think of when Scott Bomar of the Bo-Keys and Sam Phillips Recording Studio appear on the jacket of an album? Likely it’s the likes of Bomar’s main band or Al Green, William Bell, Cyndi Lauper, or John Nemeth, a […]
Will Wilde’s album, “The Blues Is Still Alive,” is his sixth release and first with Vizztone Label Group. Featuring all new songs written by Wilde, the album showcases his vocals and harmonica skills, along with contributions from talented musicians. It celebrates the enduring spirit of the blues with lively lyrics and strong melodies.
Brûlez Les Meubles, a Quebec-based avant-garde music group, debuted in 2016 and features prominent improvisers. Their latest release, “Folio #5,” lacks drums, creating a distinct sound. The collaboration between founders Louis Beaudoin-de la Sablonnière and Eric Normand invites notable musicians, blending spontaneity with melody in unique compositions.