Madre Vaca is a jazz quartet featuring Jarrett Carter, Jonah Pierre, Thomas Milovac, and Benjamin Shorstein. Their album “Yukon” showcases their versatility, blending straight-ahead jazz, ballads, and contemporary grooves. Renowned for their compositions, the group highlights creativity and comfort in their sound, making this album a notable release.
Art Hirahara’s album “Peace Unknown” features a four-horn septet, primarily shaped by producer Marc Free’s vision. The compositions blend homage and innovation, reflecting varied moods and complex harmonies. Notable tracks include ballads and dynamic pieces, showcasing collaborative arrangements and improvisation, ultimately demonstrating the spontaneous creativity of the ensemble.
The Name Droppers, a new band featuring Rafe Klein, Ron Rifkin, Scott Spray, and Bobby T. Torello, releases their fifth album “Cool Blue Shoes.” It showcases a blend of original tracks and covers, highlighted by emotional lyrics and accomplished musicianship, reflecting blues roots and heartfelt storytelling. Buy now for an engaging musical experience.
Gerald McClendon, known as the “Soulkeeper,” celebrates the 20th anniversary of his album “Mother Blues” with a diverse blend of R n’ B, soul, blues, and more. The re-issue features memorable tracks showcasing McClendon’s versatility, impressive lyrics, and collaborations, all aimed at inspiring appreciation for the roots of these musical traditions.
Koko Taylor, born Cora Ann Walton, rose from humble beginnings to become the “Queen of the Blues.” The album “Crown Jewels” commemorates her 50 years with Alligator Records, showcasing her dynamic voice across twelve tracks, including her iconic “Wang Dang Doodle.” Taylor’s legacy endures as a profound influence on modern blues.
Mercedes Nicole is a dynamic vocalist whose music radiates passion, soul, and emotional truth. With more than a decade of live performance experience and four acclaimed studio albums under her belt, she has crafted a sound that not only entertains but uplifts. Her voice has become a vessel for healing, hope, and the kind of high-energy connection that leaves audiences feeling inspired and seen.
Emma Smith’s album “Bitter Orange” showcases her powerful vocals, blending humor and heartbreak in her music. Raised in a musical family, she draws inspiration from her grandfather and iconic performers. Award-winning and acclaimed, Smith delivers a range of tunes with emotional depth, demonstrating her dynamic voice and engaging presence.
The Scarlet Goodbye, featuring Minnesota musicians Dan Murphy and Jeff Arundel, recently released their acclaimed album Hopes Eternal. Their upcoming second album, El Camino Adios, set to drop on March 14, 2025, explores themes of change through poignant storytelling. The single “Raylene” demonstrates their artistic depth and emotional resonance.
Antonia Bennett, daughter of jazz icon Tony Bennett, is establishing her presence as a vocalist. After years of performing with her father, she has released five albums, including her latest, “Expressions,” which blends jazz standards and contemporary pop elements. With her vocal talent, she has the potential for mainstream success.
Yotam Ben-Or’s album “Impermanence” features a quartet exploring themes of acceptance through original music inspired by Israeli and Latin cultures. With standout performances from pianist Gabriel Chakarji and special guests Lars Danielsson and Esther Quansah, the album showcases Ben-Or’s harmonica talent, offering a vibrant and soulful jazz experience.
“Tappin’ Thru Life” is an autobiographical musical celebrating Maurice and Gregory Hines, showcasing their singing, tap dancing, and acting talents. The album, capturing the essence of their stage show, features big band standards and highlights vocal and dance performances from various artists. It honors their legacy and contributions to the arts.
Vince Santoro is a veteran drummer, vocalist, and songwriter based in Nashville, known for his role with Felix Cavaliere’s Rascals and commitment to musicians’ rights as Secretary/Treasurer of the Nashville Musicians Association. With a diverse career spanning over five decades, he recently released his solo album, Exposed, showcasing his storytelling and musical talents.
Kent Burnside, grandson of blues legend R.L. Burnside, blends Mississippi Hill Country Blues with other styles in his new album, “Hill Country Blood,” featuring original songs and covers. Produced by Grammy-winner Boo Mitchell at Royal Studios, the album showcases Kent’s emotive vocals and personal storytelling, supported by family and longtime collaborators.
Theon Cross’s live album, “Affirmations: Live at Blue Note NYC,” showcases his dynamic tuba performances infused with elements from various genres like hip-hop and reggae. With an energetic band, including Isaiah Collier and Nikos Ziarkas, Cross delivers a vibrant and unconventional jazz experience, filled with intricate solos and spontaneous grooves. It’s a compelling contribution to contemporary jazz.
Anaïs Reno’s sophomore album, “Lady of the Lavender Mist,” showcases her evolution as a jazz artist with a unique voice influenced by Ella Fitzgerald. This collection features emotional interpretations of standards in both English and French, highlighted by her original lyrics to Duke Ellington’s composition. The album reflects themes of joy and personal struggle.
Garry Burnside, son of bluesman R.L. Burnside, debuts solo with “It’s My Time Now” after years as a sideman. The album, produced by Boo Mitchell, features personal tributes and original compositions, highlighting his signature blues-rock style. With notable collaborations and evocative lyrics, Garry aims to honor his musical roots and expand his artistry.
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.
Katy Tessman is a singer-songwriter whose music, steeped in personal experiences of survival and resilience, blends Americana and folk-rock. With her rich voice, she resonates deeply with audiences through uplifting themes. Her momentum in the Minnesota music scene continues, highlighted by her 2023 album Fly and the publication of her acclaimed children’s book.
Emma Wilson, a talented soul and blues singer from North East England, captivates audiences with her expressive voice and heartfelt performances. Her debut album, “Wish Her Well,” earned her the Emerging Blues Artist of the Year award. Collaborating with renowned musicians, her follow-up, “Memphis Calling,” showcases her musical versatility and depth, solidifying her place in the industry.
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.
From the Dirt is an Americana band from central Maryland, merging diverse influences like bluegrass and Celtic folk. Fronted by Dan Kenny, their music emphasizes storytelling with rich imagery and emotional depth. Their next album, Colored Edge of Memory, releases on May 2, 2025, featuring collaborations with notable musicians, showcasing their evolving sound.
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.
Lisa Mann, a two-time Blues Music Award winner from Portland, blends southern warmth and rock dynamics in her powerful blues vocals. Drawing inspiration from legends, she crafts authentic songs and performs with notable artists. Beyond music, she mentors neuro-diverse performers, showcasing versatility in various projects, including traditional metal and symphonic rock.
Gwyn Ashton is a dynamic Australian alt-blues rock guitarist, singer, and one-man band, known for electrifying performances and a new album, Mojosoul. He tours extensively internationally and collaborates with renowned artists. With a gritty sound and magnetic stage presence, Ashton is celebrated among blues rock legends and continues to push musical boundaries.
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.
Ernie Palmer, a retired elementary school teacher from Cartersville, Georgia, reflects on his life filled with stories, music, and family. Married for 48 years, he cherishes time with his wife Gale, their daughters, and grandsons. Drawing inspiration from his upbringing, Vietnam experience, and Texas songwriting, he now focuses on writing songs and traveling.
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.