The Alexis P. Suter Band’s album “Just Stay High,” produced by Byron Isaacs and featuring original songs and covers, showcases their growth since Suter’s early performances. The collection, arising from collaborative songwriting, reflects on life and love, emphasizing deep connections within the band and resonating messages of resilience and unity.
Cirkus Prütz is a dynamic Swedish rock band blending blues, classic rock, and Southern groove. Known for electrifying live performances, their 2019 album “White Jazz – Black Magic” received acclaim for heavy riffs and insightful lyrics. With a unique sound that honors rock legends while embracing modernity, they resonate authentically with listeners.
Tyreek McDole, a promising 25-year-old Haitian American baritone, showcases his talent on the debut album “Open Up Your Senses.” Winning the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition in 2023 distinguishes him in jazz. Featuring cultural elements and engaging collaborations, McDole’s rich voice and unique interpretations solidify his place among the new jazz greats.
Antonio Andrade is a seasoned singer-songwriter known for his unique blend of folk, rock, and humor. With a music career spanning over 45 years, he has released nine albums, including the acclaimed “Here We Go!” Critics praise his inventive covers and original works reflecting on life experiences. Andrade remains dedicated to his craft, engaging passionately with fans.
James Moody’s live album at the Blue Note showcases his humor, musical mastery, and collaboration with renowned musicians. With spirited performances of signature pieces like “Moody’s Mood for Love” and vibrant improvisations, Moody captivates the audience, blending jazz with hip hop styles. The album is both a historical tribute and an entertaining experience.
The Nicolas Ferron Trio’s debut album “Multiverse” blends psychedelic rock and experimental jazz, showcasing Ferron’s guitar skills and unique compositions. While the B3 organ shines, the drumming lacks a solid groove, affecting the overall feel. The music evokes diverse influences, steering away from traditional jazz elements, and is described as more experimental with rock roots.
Willie Buck and Bob Corritore, ambassadors of classic Chicago blues, release their collaborative album “Oh Yeah.” Buck, influenced by Muddy Waters, has a rich history in blues music. Corritore, a skilled harmonica player, opened The Rhythm Room in Phoenix. The album features original tracks and blues classics, showcasing their musical synergy and talent.
Rusty Ends, influenced by blues and country music, began his musical journey in Kentucky. He fronted various bands and focused solely on blues in 1992. His latest album “The Last of the Boogiemen” features a mix of original tracks and covers, highlighting his roots and the rich blend of musical styles.
Susan Anders’s album “Now I’m a Kite” reflects her nomadic experiences, exploring themes of loss, resilience, and new beginnings. Recorded mostly in Santa Fe, the folk-pop sound accompanies deeply emotional lyrics addressing personal struggles, including her father’s passing and her partner’s health issues. Anders’s insightful songwriting showcases vulnerability and perseverance.
The Pete McGuinness Jazz Orchestra’s album “Mixed Bag,” celebrates its 20th Anniversary with a blend of standards and original compositions. Bandleader Pete McGuinness, transitioning from trombone to vocals due to health issues, showcases his smooth singing style and innovative arrangements. The orchestra’s dynamic performance features talented musicians and impressive solos.
The Gil Evans Project’s posthumous live album, “Shades of Sound,” showcases Frank Kimbrough’s remarkable piano artistry alongside a 22-piece orchestra at Jazz Standard in 2014. Featuring original and classic arrangements, this recording preserves Evans’ vibrant orchestration style while honoring Kimbrough’s legacy, providing an energetic musical experience enriched by a live audience.
Stefan Hegerat’s band, Stef.in, releases their second album “Icterus II,” blending jazz, rock, and electronics. The quartet, featuring guitars, bass, and drums, creates an experimental soundscape. Key tracks include “Here’s to Circle” and “Aku San Zan,” showcasing rhythmic complexities and melodic intricacies that cater to an acquired taste in music.
Patrick Zimmerli’s 14th album, “Songs of Innocence,” showcases his trio’s blend of light yet intense sounds, drawing inspiration from William Blake’s poetry. The music ranges from bright and joyous pieces to reflective and darker tones, exploring themes of innocence and complexity. The album’s concise length highlights its emotional depth and dynamism.
Susan Anders is a versatile singer-songwriter known for her blend of Americana, folk, pop, and jazz. After starting her career in California, she moved to Los Angeles and formed the band Susan’s Room. Following a successful solo career launched in Nashville, she is set to release her new album in 2025. Additionally, she is a respected vocal coach.
The SteelDrivers, a bluegrass band from Nashville, debuted in 2008 and achieved Grammy recognition, winning Best Bluegrass Album in 2015. Their latest release, “Outrun,” features new lead singer Matt Dame. The album showcases their signature storytelling style, promising to captivate both bluegrass fans and newcomers alike.
The Jay Willie Blues Band, led by Jay Willie and featuring Bobby T. Torello, releases their seventh album “Still Raisin’ Cane” with Zoho Music. This album includes traditional and contemporary blues covers, highlighted by the original title track. It pays tribute to blues legends and showcases an enduring musical legacy.
V&BT, a Norwegian band formed in 2016, aims to create an engaging live experience. Their debut album, “Diamonds at the Rainbow’s End,” features original songs blending blues, blues-rock, and pop. With strong vocals and authentic instrumentation, the album showcases themes of longing and hope, and is poised to expand their fanbase.
Alyn Cosker’s album “Onta” features a diverse ensemble blending jazz with Scottish cultural elements. Highlights include Karen Matheson’s ethereal vocals and dynamic tracks like “Lullapalew” and “Cassillis,” showcasing intricate rhythms and creative arrangements. Recorded internationally, the album reflects Cosker’s innovative drumming and musical fusion, offering a captivating experience.
Barry McGuigan, born in 1961 in Ulster, Ireland, became a boxing icon after winning a Commonwealth gold medal in 1978. Turning professional in 1981, he captured the WBA featherweight title in 1985, known for his stamina and fighting style. Post-retirement, he remains influential as a commentator and unifier during conflict in Northern Ireland.
Lisa Mann, a blues artist inspired by icons like Etta James, has a remarkable career, with numerous albums and awards, including Blues Music Awards for Best Instrumentalist. Terrie Odabi, a powerful soul blues vocalist, contributes to Mann’s latest album, “The Great Women In Blues,” showcasing classic tracks and strong musical collaboration.
The Reverend Douglas, a blues artist from Louisville, combines traditional blues with personal storytelling, creating emotionally rich music. His debut album, released in April 2022, explores themes of struggle and redemption. His upcoming second album, Born to Walk Alone, continues this journey, emphasizing the spiritual essence of the blues.
James Davis’ Beveled, with talented musicians from the Chicago Modern Jazz scene, presents their album “Arc and Edge,” showcasing unique horn arrangements alongside a bass and drum rhythm section. The compositions evoke warmth and creativity, featuring intricate solos and rich orchestrations, with each track offering a delightful musical experience.
Shelby Means, a singer-songwriter and bassist from Kentucky, has released her self-titled debut solo album, showcasing 13 vibrant bluegrass songs. With contributions from Nashville’s elite musicians, the album highlights her artistry and storytelling. Means navigates personal themes, blending traditional bluegrass with modern influences, promising a bright future in the music industry.
Blues musician Alan Arena, known for his two top 10 albums in New England, recorded a new album titled “Deceived” at The Music Room in Cape Cod with producer Paul Nelson. The album features an impressive lineup of musicians and includes seven original tracks along with a cover of “Mother Earth,” celebrating caregivers and musical influences.
“Live From Death Row” features Keith LaMar, an inmate facing execution, performing spoken word with pianist Albert Marquès and a jazz ensemble. This historic release, recorded in Brooklyn, showcases LaMar’s reflections on freedom and justice through music’s healing power. The project advocates for the voices of those impacted by state-sponsored violence.
The Spike Wilner Trio’s album “The Children & the Warlock” is a tribute to Wilner’s mentor, Harry Whitaker, featuring special guest George Garzone on saxophone. The album blends bebop and straight-ahead jazz with soulful improvisations, showcasing the trio’s musical skills and emotional depth. Each track captivates, particularly the title piece and “Moment to Moment.”
The “Mingus in Argentina” double disc captures the electrifying performances of Charles Mingus and his quintet in Buenos Aires during June 1977. The album showcases their musical camaraderie, improvisational skills, and unique energy, with highlights including solos from Ricky Ford and iconic pieces like “Goodbye Pork Pie Hat.” A must-have for jazz enthusiasts.
Paquito D’Rivera’s “La Fleur de Cayenne” features the Madrid-New York Connection Band, a group of Cuban and Colombian musicians. This album showcases an array of original compositions and Latin styles, blending Cuban son, Argentinian tango, and Venezuelan rhythms. D’Rivera’s clarinet and ensemble deliver vibrant, lyrical performances, marking their first recording after two decades together.
Roy Head, a Texas music legend born in 1941, co-founded “Roy Head and The Traits” in 1957. Known for blue-eyed soul, his hit “Treat Her Right” gained fame. The posthumous album “Last Time Around,” completed after his 2020 death, showcases his versatility through emotional tracks, celebrating his impactful musical legacy.
Masha Campagne’s fourth album, “Alegre Menina,” reflects her artistic journey and roots, influenced by her grandfather’s jazz legacy. After relocating from Russia to San Francisco, she found success in jazz festivals and collaborations. This album features original compositions and Brazilian classics, showcasing her authentic vocal style and rich musical arrangements.
Emma Wilson, a British Rhythm & Blues artist, released her third EP, “A Spoonful Of Willie Dixon,” on Select-O-Hits Records. The six-song collection features classic blues tracks by Willie Dixon, showcasing Emma’s vocal talent alongside skilled musicians. Inspired by her visits to Memphis, this live-recorded EP highlights her deep respect for blues music.
Marty Ehrlich’s Trio Exaltation returns with “Images of Time,” featuring bassist John Hébert and drummer Nasheet Waits. The album showcases Ehrlich’s artistry with seven original compositions and two by Andrew Hill, reflecting Hill’s influence. The trio’s interplay reveals their deep connection, blending composition and improvisation to honor Hill’s legacy.
Jeffrey Broussard, a prominent zydeco musician from Louisiana, honors Creole traditions through his music, mastering multiple instruments from a young age. He co-founded Zydeco Force and later formed Jeffrey Broussard and the Creole Cowboys, blending traditional sounds with modern influences. His latest work, “Boots and Boujee,” showcases his talent and dedication.
Brad “Guitar” Wilson, an acclaimed California-based guitarist-singer-songwriter, showcases his talent in his new album, “Buckle Up!”. Featuring eight originals and six covers, the album highlights his soulful sound and impressive performances. With a history of collaborating with renowned artists, Brad’s music resonates through captivating tracks and vibrant performances across California.
Dave Goddess, a musician rooted in rock and Americana, releases his new EP, Kitty Hawk, on May 30th. Inspired by a trip to North Carolina, the six tracks delve into themes of perseverance and love. With a commitment to authenticity, Goddess aims to connect through storytelling, garnering praise for his sincere and soul-resonant music.
Erja Lyytinen, acclaimed blues-rock guitarist and “Finnish slide goddess,” has released twelve albums since her debut in 2003. Her career celebrated in the live album “20 Years of Blues Rock!” includes critical acclaim for “Waiting for the Daylight.” With a new album slated for March 2025, she continues to electrify audiences worldwide.
David Riddel’s “Dr. Purgatory: The Consumption” is a multidisciplinary album blending modern jazz with a tragic folktale theme. Featuring a skilled ensemble and accompanied by a 46-page illustrated book, Riddel’s compositions draw inspiration from literature and mythology, resulting in technically proficient and emotionally engaging music that invites imaginative exploration.
Marina Pacowski’s “New Jazz Standards Volume 7” celebrates the intricate compositions of Carl Saunders, showcasing her vocal and piano talent alongside renowned musicians. Tracks range from joyful arrangements to heartfelt tributes, with standout moments of improvisation and scat singing. Pacowski’s connection to Saunders’ music unites artistic excellence and emotional depth.
The Scarlet Goodbye, a duo of Minnesota musicians Dan Murphy and Jeff Arundel, merged their talents to create Hopes Eternal, a critically acclaimed debut album. They are set to release their follow-up, El Camino Adios, on March 14, 2025, featuring the single “Raylene,” which explores themes of change and emotional upheavals.
Shuffle Demons, a celebrated Toronto jazz ensemble, marks 40 years in music with their eleventh album on ALMA Records. The group blends contemporary sounds with classic jazz influences, showcasing dynamic horn arrangements and creative compositions. Their music spans various genres, driven by themes of change and identity, highlighting their cultural significance in jazz.
SEXTET, featuring accomplished musicians like Charlie Burnham and Tony Jones, blends spiritual themes with street-level accessibility, evident in tracks like “I Shall Not Want” and “The Beginning of the Universe.” Their album “Pitch, Rhythm and Consciousness” showcases original compositions and improvisations, striving to elevate consciousness through relatable lyrics and dynamic instrumentation.
Triology’s album “The Slow Road” features a collaboration of award-winning Canadian jazz musicians, including Scott Hamilton on tenor saxophone. Highlights include Jodi Proznick’s waltz “Luna” and a unique, sultry interpretation of Jobim’s “Luiza.” The group’s mastery and melodic clarity make for an enchanting listening experience, showcasing their talents in jazz.
Kristen R. Bromley’s fifth album, “Wes 101,” showcases her talent as a guitarist and bandleader. Featuring her quartet, the album pays tribute to Wes Montgomery while infusing blues influences. With a background in music education, Bromley combines familiar melodies with original compositions, resulting in an uplifting musical experience.
Catalyst, featuring the Dave Sharp Worlds Quartet and guitarist Elden Kelly, explores the music of composer Gregg Hill, blending jazz with global influences. Artists from diverse backgrounds create a rich soundscape, incorporating elements from various traditions. The album showcases innovative arrangements, captivating improvisations, and highlights Hill’s broad musical reach, affirming its brilliance.
Dave Specter, a Chicago-born guitarist, began his music career at 18, influenced by blues legends. He has released numerous albums, including “Live At Space,” featuring original tracks and covers. This new work showcases contemporary Chicago blues while honoring tradition, highlighting his artistry as both a guitarist and vocalist over the decades.
“Oblique Rhyme” is a jazz quartet album featuring Joe Santa Maria, David Tranchina, Gary Fukushima, and Colin Woodford. Although it showcases their technical prowess, the album emphasizes depth and personal expression. Each artist contributes unique compositions, exploring a range of emotional and musical landscapes, ultimately achieving a cohesive and inspired sound.
The WDR Big Band’s album explores a fusion of Bluegrass and Jazz, highlighted by Mike Marshall’s mandolin and Darol Anger’s violin. Traditional tunes and original compositions feature strong saxophone solos by Bob Mintzer. The collaborative effort showcases the talents of renowned musicians, producing a unique and vibrant Americana sound.
David M’ore, an Argentine-born musician, discovered his passion for guitar at a young age, influenced by rock and blues legends. His third album, “Holy Sinners & Sinful Saints,” showcases his aggressive guitar style and raspy vocals. The album blends traditional blues with rock elements, appealing to fans of powerful guitar performances.
Saxophonist Jordan VanHemert’s fifth album, “Survival of the Fittest,” features a mix of covers and originals that emphasize resilience against prejudice. Collaborating with notable musicians, VanHemert confronts personal and societal struggles, while embracing themes of hope and defiance through vibrant post-bop compositions. The album balances grief with cathartic expression.
Champian Fulton and Klas Lindquist’s album “At Home,” recorded in an intimate setting, features ten classic songs from the Great American Songbook plus a contemporary piece and an original collaboration. Their musical synergy captivates listeners through expressive vocals, improvisational clarinet and saxophone solos, showcasing their mastery and dynamic artistry throughout the performance.