Bryn Roberts’ debut album “Aloft” showcases the pianist’s evolution from jazz sideman to bandleader and composer. The album features Roberts on piano, Matt Penman on bass, and Quincy Davis on drums. Each track highlights the trio’s dynamic interplay, Roberts’ creative compositions, and their collective improvisational skills, establishing Roberts as a thoughtful and engaging musician.
As Trevor B. Power works on his third album, produced by NY Blues Hall of Famer Dave Fields, they aim for a live feel while recording at Farm189 Studios. Featuring drummer Steve Holley, the album blends heartfelt lyrics with powerful music. Trevor also hosts a weekly radio show and actively performs, maintaining his undying passion for music.
Anders Malta, a Danish trumpeter and composer, leads the Anders Malta Almost Big Band, performing monthly at Christiania Jazz Club in Copenhagen. Their debut album features nine tracks, blending various jazz styles and showcasing Malta’s compositions and arrangements. Highlights include the “Hardbop Conversations” series and “Pelle’s Little Tune.”
Tom Johnson’s album “Time Takes Odd Turns” showcases his compositions reflecting different stages of his life. It features a jazz orchestra including guitars, piano, reeds, trumpets, and guest musicians. This project, inspired by Johnson’s lifelong dream, was recorded with IU students and Indianapolis jazz musicians and is now available to the public.
The Tobias Hoffmann Jazz Orchestra’s latest project, “Innuendo,” showcases Hoffmann’s compositions performed by diverse musical talents. The album, inspired by Queen, includes award-winning tracks like “Summer Solstice” and “No Way Back.” Hoffmann’s unique approach to mixed meter and arrangements highlight his musical creativity, leading to a highly anticipated release on September 20, 2024.
Mauricio Morales’ album “Seven Days” captures a week of his life through seven original tracks, each named after a day. Composed during a visa issue in Mexico, it highlights his bass skills, jazz fusion influences, and melodic roots. The album features impressive solos, diverse compositions, and Morales’ continual artistic growth.
The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra’s album, “Live at the Village Vanguard – Centennial: The Music of Thad Jones,” celebrates the 100th birthday of Thad Jones. This double CD features modernized big band sounds influenced by jazz legends such as Count Basie and Duke Ellington. Each disc showcases exceptional musicianship with unique arrangements, honoring Jones’s legacy.
Jimbo Ross’s album “Jazz Passion & Satin Latin” showcases his prowess on the 5-string viola, traditionally a background instrument in jazz. Leading a talented quintet, Ross brings distinctive improvisation to classics like “Delilah” and “Polka Dots & Moonbeams.” His “Bodacious Band” further explores diverse genres, emphasizing his musical virtuosity.
Michele Malone, a stalwart of American roots music for over 30 years, integrates roadhouse rock, blues, folk, and country-soul. “Southern Comfort” reflects her southern Georgia roots, featuring collaborations with notable musicians. The album’s tracks span sentiments of longing, resilience, and familial ties, embodying Malone’s influence in both southern rock and folk genres.
“Patricia Brennan’s album ‘Breaking Stretch’ blends contemporary classical with funk, salsa, and experimental jazz, reflecting her push to musical boundaries. Utilizing electronics, Brennan crafts compositions that challenge rhythmic structures. The ensemble includes notable jazz musicians, with Brennan’s vibraphone and marimba driving the experimental essence, delivering an avant-garde experience.”
Amanda Ann Platt & The Honeycutters, an Asheville-based band, blend nuanced, lyrically driven country roots music. Platt’s empathetic and witty songwriting delves into life’s emotions, from heartache to hope, drawing from her experiences and others’. The Honeycutters include Matt Smith, Rick Cooper, Evan Martin, and Kevin Williams.
Anthony Geraci, born in 1954 in New Haven, CT, is a renowned pianist and composer who began playing piano at age four. Influenced by blues legends and a close friend, he rose to fame, recording with numerous artists. His celebrated albums include “Fifty Shades of Blue” and “Daydreams in Blue.” He has garnered multiple Blues Music Award nominations and wins, with his latest album “Tears in My Eyes” set for release in spring 2024.
Colin Fisher’s “Suns of the Heart” is an experimental jazz album where he plays all instruments, composed in collaboration with producer David Psutka. Celebrated as a versatile multi-instrumentalist from Toronto, Fisher weaves a meditative, boundary-less soundscape, blending percussion, synthesizers, and guitars to create a dynamic, ethereal musical experience.
Javon Jackson and Nikki Giovanni’s album “Javon & Nikki Go to the Movies” features a blend of Jackson’s tenor saxophone with Giovanni’s poetry. The album showcases the talents of Jackson’s band on tracks like “When the Time is Right” and “Speak Low.” Giovanni’s poetry and Jackson’s compositions create a rich, artistic synergy.
In a Making a Scene interview, Doug Duffey and his band BADD, a Louisiana-based quartet, are highlighted for their original Blues, Delta Soul, Bayou Funk, and Swampadelica music. With a lineup of accomplished musicians, the band delivers energetic performances, taking listeners on a Southern Blues journey from Memphis to New Orleans.
David Bailis’s EP “Tree of Life” showcases his compositions with a talented quartet featuring Chris Speed, Eric Lane, and Jason Nazary. The album blends various musical styles, including smooth jazz and soft rock. When not making music, Bailis is a decorated marathon runner and triathlete, coaching other athletes.
Chad McCullough’s album “In These Hills, Beyond” was recorded live at North Street Cabaret in Madison, Wisconsin, during the final phase of their tour. This seasoned ensemble, featuring pianist Bram Weijters, guitarist Dave Miller, bassist John Christensen, and drummer Kobie Watkins, showcases strong chemistry and spontaneity, with McCullough’s compositions emphasizing varied moods and tempo changes.
Andrew Wilcox, a Hartford-based pianist and composer, debuts with “Dear Mr. Hill,” an album honoring his mentors and experiences. Featuring original compositions and jazz interpretations like “Stella by Starlight,” Wilcox’s work highlights his creativity and emotional depth. Supported by veterans Avery Sharpe and Yoron Israel, this album showcases a promising talent.
Karen Stachel’s album “A Whim and a Prayer” showcases her flute performances in imaginative jazz arrangements of holiday classics. Notable tracks include “Let It Snow,” “Angels Have You Heard on High,” and “Mary Did You Know?” Featuring contributions from various skilled musicians, this album brings a festive and cozy atmosphere, perfect for winter evenings.
Jonathan Powell’s “Mambo Jazz Party” on Label Circle 9 features energetic, modern Latin jazz with dynamic arrangements by Powell. Tracks like “Juancito,” “Hope,” and “You’re Everything” showcase his prowess in blending percussive intensity, smooth jazz elements, and harmonious vocals. This lively album exemplifies Powell’s talent as an arranger, composer, and trumpeter.
Miguel Zenón’s “Golden City” is a sweeping musical suite representing San Francisco’s demographics and political evolution. Incorporating California history, the album features a brass and rhythm section nonet. Each composition, like “Sacred Land” and “Acts of Exclusion,” showcases intricate solos and cultural themes. The album launches on August 30, 2024.
Raul Midón’s album “Lost & Found” blends jazz, folk, pop, and soft rock, showcasing his multifaceted talent as a composer, singer, guitarist, and multi-instrumentalist. Inspired by Stevie Wonder, Midón’s work includes powerful lyrics and impressive musical arrangements, with standout tracks like “Lost & Found,” “Next Time,” and “Ocean of Doubt.”
“PROTEST – A Revolutionary Rock Opus” honors women activists who made significant impacts across various causes such as civil rights, climate change, and more. Originating after George Floyd’s murder, it features new and classic protest songs by numerous artists and aims to inspire societal change through music during COVID-19.
Catherine Russell and Sean Mason’s album “My Ideal” on Dot Time Records refreshes historic songs with modern flair. Russell’s persuasive vocals and Mason’s emotive piano create an intimate musical dialogue. The album features a blend of blues, ballads, and classic tunes, showcasing their artistry and bringing vintage music to the contemporary stage.
Gerry Casey interviews Kyle John Suckling of The Retro Kings, highlighting Kyle’s exceptional vocal talent reminiscent of iconic singers like Ian Gillan and Ozzy Osbourne. Teaming up with Errol Andrew, Kyle formed Retro Kings, delivering outstanding classic rock performances. Experience their remarkable musical synergy and powerful vocals firsthand.
Neil Adler’s album “Emi’s Song” features original compositions and jazz standards, showcasing his talents on piano and chromatic harmonica. Accompanied by Jeff Buenz, Carlitos Medrano, and Akira Tana, the music blends various styles and highlights each musician’s proficiency. Notable tracks include “Bésame Mucho,” “Blues for McCoy,” and “Donna Lee.”
Jake Noble’s debut album, “Letting Go of a Dream,” tells a musical story of self-discovery in a digitized world. His quintet delivers varied tunes, but the mix often diminishes Noble’s bass presence. Inspired compositions showcase his potential, though some solos, particularly by Dominguez, could be more balanced. Noble’s journey in jazz looks promising.
Dafnis Prieto’s “3 Sides of the Coin” features compositions and arrangements by Prieto, a renowned drummer and bandleader. This album blends Latin rhythms with modern jazz, showcasing dynamic solos by band members. Highlights include imaginative piano solos by Martin Bejerano and powerful drum work from Prieto. The album releases on September 27, 2024.
Vaneese Thomas, daughter of blues legend Rufus Thomas, has a rich musical heritage. Her latest album, “Stories In Blue,” showcases her prowess as a songwriter and singer, blending blues, soul, and gospel. Featuring personal tributes and heartfelt lyrics, the album maintains her family’s musical legacy while highlighting her distinct artistic voice.
Christopher Wyze, frontman of a blues band for 20 years, has emerged as a notable lyricist and stylist, gaining recognition from the Nashville Songwriters Association International. His debut album, recorded in Muscle Shoals and Clarksdale, blends blues, rock, Americana, and country, delivering rich narratives and diverse musical styles alongside an ensemble of accomplished musicians.
Kurt Rosenwinkel’s “The Next Step Band Live at Smalls 1996,” captures a seminal moment in modern jazz, featuring dynamic performances by Rosenwinkel and his band. The album showcases his compositions and the group’s improvisational prowess. Standout tracks like “A Shifting Design” and “Use of Light” highlight the band’s energy and Rosenwinkel’s compositional strength.
Jazz vocalist Zack Foley’s album “Silent Boomer X” features an all-standard repertoire with innovative improvisation, using his voice like a saxophone. Supported by Frank Wagner on bass and C.J. Everett on drums, the trio spans three generations, reflected in the album’s title. Their chord-less arrangement is creatively engaging yet occasionally leaves the listener longing for harmonic accompaniment.
The Matt Panayides Trio’s album “With Eyes Closed,” featuring Matt Panayides on guitar, Steve LaSpina on bass, and Anthony Pinciotti on drums, highlights a shift to an acoustic approach. The album blends classic tunes with fresh arrangements, showcasing Panayides’ unique style reminiscent of jazz legends and includes notable solos by the trio.
Nestor Dimopoulos and Evgenia Karlafti, co-leaders of Music Soup, are set to release a new album on September 6, 2024. The trio, including drummer Vagelis Kotzabasis, features original compositions reflecting 1960s jazz organ trio style. Highlights include “A Day in the Park” and “Freeland.” They plan a U.S. tour.
Jimmy Carpenter, a Grammy and Blues Music Award winner, has released his new album “Just Got Started” produced by “Kid” Andersen. Highlights include original tunes and covers with a blues, soul, and rock vibe. Carpenter, also president of The Las Vegas Blues Society, showcases high-energy performances backed by prominent musicians.
Ann Kittredge’s “Romantic Notions” features her Broadway-like voice across a diverse selection of songs, including works by Stevie Wonder, Carole King, and Jimmy Webb. Her versatile style spans pop, country, and cabaret, with standout tracks like “I Feel the Earth Move” and “Garden.” The album showcases Kittredge’s emotional depth and exceptional enunciation, supported by talented musicians.
Gary Nicholson’s new album “Common Sense” addresses political divisions through music, featuring various genres and collaborations with renowned artists. Co-produced with Kevin McKendree in Nashville, the album includes tracks like “What A Little Love Can Do” and “Make Good Trouble,” blending messages of unity, love, and common sense with diverse musical styles and talent.
Dred Scott’s album, set for release on September 23, 2024, revitalizes Latin jazz classics and standards with a modern twist. Featuring vibrant arrangements and exceptional improvisations, the album highlights Scott’s piano skills, Beckham’s vibraphone, and contributions from Pavolka and Patrou. The project celebrates Latin jazz pioneers and offers an engaging, energetic listening experience.
Emily Duff’s “The Obvious Invisible,” produced by John Jackson, reconnects her with 70’s psychedelic folk rock. Featuring a diverse ensemble, the album’s tracks explore themes of love, resilience, and self-reflection. Highlights include “Dangerous,” “She Never Loved Me,” and “Amazing Light,” each showcasing Duff’s unique lyrical and musical talents across twelve stripped-down songs.
Diane Durrett, an acclaimed singer/songwriter and producer, is set to release her 10th album “Sweet Georgia Blues” with her band Soul Suga’. Featuring soulful storytelling and guest appearances, the album honors late bandmate Yonrico Scott. Recently elected as President of the Atlanta chapter of the Recording Academy, Durrett’s career is marked by notable accolades and heartfelt, spontaneous music.
“Live at the Speakeasy” is Augie Haas’s vibrant live recorded jazz album featuring top-tier musicians and two special guest vocalists. With a mix of original compositions and jazz standards, the album captures the raw, authentic energy of a night at a New York City jazz club, emphasizing improvisation and audience engagement.
Terry “Harmonica” Bean, born in 1961, is an American blues harmonicist, guitarist, and songwriter committed to promoting older blues styles like Delta and Hill country blues. He released seven albums since 2001, including “Here I Am Baby” and “Catfish Blues,” and collaborated with various major blues artists.
Gerry Casey interviews Jeff Pitchell, a renowned singer, songwriter, and guitarist whose album “Heavy Hitter” reached #7 on the Billboard Charts. Pitchell, who won “Best Guitarist” in Connecticut at age 15, has toured internationally and shared the stage with music legends. He leads the award-winning band Texas Flood.
Albert Castiglia, a Miami-raised blues musician, began his career backing Junior Wells and Sandra Hall before launching a solo career with his 2002 debut album “Burn.” He gained recognition in 2020 with his award-winning album “Masterpiece.” His latest album, “Righteous Souls,” features original songs and covers, showcasing his guitar skills and soulful vocals.
Christopher Parnis is an emerging talent in the Canadian jazz scene, known for his power-driven leadership, composition skills, and adept bass playing. His album, featuring original compositions like “Opportunity,” “Measured Response,” and “The Cradle,” showcases his unique melodic and improvisational abilities, suggesting a bright future for the young bassist and composer.
Tom Craig is an accomplished Blues, Soul, and R&B artist with over 40 years of guitar playing and jazz vocals training. He has released two critically acclaimed albums, toured extensively, and earned Independent Blues Awards nominations. His third album, ‘Get to Work,’ showcases his growth and features top musicians.
Bria Skonberg’s album “What It Means,” reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil, is a tribute to New Orleans jazz, blending traditional and contemporary elements. Featuring standout trumpet performances and collaborative tracks with notable musicians, the album highlights Skonberg’s versatility as a vocalist, composer, and trumpeter, reminiscent of Louis Armstrong’s influence.
Michael Eaton’s album “Individuation” showcases modern jazz with experimental elements. The band features Eaton on saxophones, creating dissonant compositions with intricate improvisations. Drummer Shareef Taher shines in “Folk Song,” while Judi Silvano adds haunting vocals to “Alterpiece No. 1.” The project, composed by Eaton, spans eight years and three tours, culminating in a distinctive sound.
Shemekia Copeland’s album “Blame It On Eve,” recorded at Skinny Elephant Recording and produced by Will Kimbrough and John Hahn, features a mix of poignant and powerful blues tracks. The album highlights her vocal prowess and storytelling, with notable contributions by various musicians and heartfelt dedications to her family and musical heritage.
Greg Amirault’s album “A Change of Pace” features six original compositions and various standards, showcasing his smooth, inviting jazz guitar style. Supported by Adrian Vedady on bass and Andre White on drums, the trio innovatively reinterprets familiar tunes and original pieces. Amirault, a renowned jazz guitarist in Canada, teaches at McGill and Concordia Universities.