JP Soars, renowned blues guitarist and vocalist, attributes his success to dedication and passion. With awards like the 2009 International Blues Challenge and an acclaimed discography, Soars, along with his band the Red Hots, enjoys a celebrated career. He remains humble and grateful, valuing fan connection and live performances worldwide.
Janel Leppin and Anthony Pirog’s “New Moon in the Evil Age” consists of two albums: an instrumental and a vocal one. Their work blends cello, guitar, and various instruments, delivering both ambient and dramatic pieces. Leppin’s Ensemble Volcanic Ash offers a political, intense set performed by a sextet. All three albums showcase extraordinary versatility and musical talent.
Frank London’s album “Spirit Stronger Than Blood,” released by ESP-Disk, honors friends lost to blood diseases and cancer. Featuring The Elders, the album blends spiritual jazz with post-bop, inspired by notable jazz figures and personal experiences. Highlights include dedications to Lester Bowie, Jewlia Eisenberg, and Ron Miles, showcasing emotional depth and musical intensity.
Alan Walker, previously of The Brilliant Mistakes, releases his second solo album, A Little Too Late. His music draws influences from Joe Jackson, 70s pop, and bands like Squeeze. Walker wrote and performed nine songs, featuring various notable musicians. The album is characterized by rich harmonies, varied instrumentation, and an overall uplifting feel.
Jeff Worley, guitarist of Jackyl, discusses his multifaceted career spanning over 25 years, with achievements including Guinness World Records, TV features, and authorship of three books. Now, he explores painting, drawing inspiration from his artistic roots and personal philosophy. Jeff emphasizes authenticity and allowing creativity to naturally unfold.
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.
Steve Turre’s first live album, “Sanyas,” recorded at Smoke Jazz Club, showcases his talents on trombone and shells. Featuring an elite sextet, the album includes two Turre compositions, a piece by Lee Morgan, and two standards. Highlights include Turre’s remarkable shell performances and strong contributions from Nicholas Payton, Ron Blake, and Isaiah J. Thompson.
Ray Brown’s Great Big Band celebrates 27 years with the album “I Could Write A Book” on Summit Records. Featuring Ray Brown and a talented ensemble, the two-disc set includes 21 big band jazz tracks, mixing classics like “Spring is Here” with Christmas songs. Ray Brown, a multi-talented bandleader, showcases his exceptional arrangements and the band’s versatility.
Katie Knipp, starting with the clarinet at age ten, developed her musical career through singing, playing piano, and songwriting despite personal struggles. She released multiple albums, including “Take it With You” and “Me,” achieving Billboard success. Her music, praised for its creativity and emotional depth, resonates deeply with listeners.
Erik Friedlander’s “Dirty Boxing” is a jazz album inspired by Mixed Martial Arts, featuring the same quartet from his previous album, A Queen’s Firefly. With tracks like “Shrimping” and “Submission,” it highlights intense improvisation and teamwork. The CD version includes a bonus project, Floating City, with ethereal melodies.
David Bixler, an alto saxophonist and composer, resumed his music career in 2016 after a 12-year hiatus due to his son’s health issues. His discography includes albums like “In the Face of Chaos” and “Inside the Grief.” In 2023, he released “Beatitude.” Bixler is also Director of Jazz Studies at Bowling Green State University and a podcast host.
Snake Oil King is Widespread Panic’s first album in nine years, featuring six eloquent songs showcasing the band’s musical talents. The album highlights the unique contributions of each member, blending styles and genres. With emotionally evocative lyrics and melodies, it captivates audiences both within and beyond the jam band community.
The album “ALL ABOARD – VOL. 1: DEPARTURES” by Telavana, led by flautist Itai Kriss, blends jazz with Middle Eastern, North African, and Latin influences. Featuring notable artists and special guest Amos Hoffman, the compositions offer vibrant, energetic, and culturally rich music. Reviewer Dee Dee McNeil praises its eclectic fusion and improvisational freedom.
Doug Duffey And Badd, a North Louisiana-based quartet, specialize in original Bluesiana Bayou and Delta Soul Music. With their fourth studio album, “Ain’t Goin’ Back,” they merge Memphis soul and New Orleans R&B. The band, active for 32 years, has songs on Billboard charts and features members contributing on various instruments.
Bruna Black’s compelling vocals and John Finbury’s Brazilian-influenced music come together in the album “Va Revelacco.” After auditioning for “The Voice Brazil,” Black fast-tracked her career, forming the successful duo “Avua.” Introduced by producer Emilio D. Miller, their collaboration features renowned musicians and embodies fresh, provocative Brazilian jazz.
Piper & The Hard Times’ debut album “Revelation,” recorded in Nashville and Franklin, features twelve original, blues-based songs infused with R&B, soul, and rock. The band, named “Best Blues Band” at the International Blues Challenge, delivers dynamic performances led by Al “Piper” Green, showcasing strong songwriting and musicianship.
Emily Hicks, a Utah-based folk-pop singer/songwriter, captivates audiences with her powerful vocals and nature-inspired lyrics. Originally a classical pianist and educator, she transitioned into music with the release of singles produced by Grammy-nominated Monty Powell. Her debut album “Weird Wild Wonderful” releases in fall 2024, marking her national tour.
Carl Clements’ album “A Different Light” features nine original jazz compositions, blending saxophones and North Indian bansuri flute. Highlights include Chase Morris’ tension-building piano solo, Bruno Råberg’s growling bass lines, and Gen Yoshimura’s dynamic drumming. The quartet’s youthful and energetic sound showcases their talent and impressive originality. Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil.
Paul Carlon’s sixth album, “Blues for Vita,” features eight tracks, five of which are original compositions. The quintet, including Eddie Allen, Helio Alves, Harvie S., and Willie Martinez, creates a dynamic, blues-influenced jazz experience. Standout tracks include “Dee Dot,” “Colored Paper,” and covers like “Never Never Will I Marry,” showcasing inventive arrangements and energetic performances.
Mike Holober & The Gotham Jazz Orchestra’s double album “This Rock We’re On: Imaginary Letters” showcases Holober’s compositions celebrating America’s landscapes. Opening with “Lay of the Land,” a Chris Potter solo, it features a blend of jazz arrangements. The suite, with standout tracks “On this Rock” and “Dirt Lovers Almanac,” emphasizes melodic beauty and intricate orchestration.
Sarah Hanahan makes a notable debut on the Blue Engine label with “Among Giants,” showcasing her impressive skills on the alto saxophone. Backed by a seasoned rhythm section, she blends tradition and innovation through a mix of originals and standards. Highlights include the standout track “NATO” and her expressive renditions of jazz classics, marking her as a promising new voice in jazz.
Jeff Worley, Jackyl’s guitarist and founding member, has spent over 25 years as a professional musician, selling millions of records and holding Guinness World Records. Besides music, he’s authored three books and ventured into painting. Worley emphasizes creativity, spontaneity, and self-belief in both his music and art.
Chance Hayden’s “Baritone Gold,” released through Peace House Music, is a ’60s-inspired organ trio album. It features Hayden’s baritone guitar and incorporates jazz, soul, and blues with standout tracks like “Bank On Me” and “Carolina Summers.” The album showcases relentless energy and impressive interplay among band members, creating a distinctive retro vibe.
The Tomasz Stanko Quartet’s 2004 concert in Munich, led by virtuoso trumpeter Stanko with his talented Polish mentees, showcased dynamic and emotive performances. Highlights include “Hermento’s Mood” and “Song for Sarah,” with notable solos from bassist Slawomir Kurkiewicz and drummer Michal Miskiewicz. The release captures Stanko’s lasting influence on European jazz.
The Trevor B. Power Band, based in northwest New Jersey, released their album “Are We Ever Free” with co-writer Dave Fields. The album, recorded and mastered at Farm 189 Studios, features a mix of rock and blues. Power’s music, influenced by varied experiences and collaborations, inspires listeners to embrace life and dance.
“Reflection in Two Shades,” produced by Lee McKinney, features original compositions blending bebop and modern jazz. The album highlights McKinney’s drumming and compositional talents, with standout performances by Matt Cooper on piano, Chris Berg on bass, and Greg Abate on saxophone. Dee Dee McNeil praises its melodic mastery and timeless quality.
Stevie and the Blue Flames, a staple in Seattle since the 1980s, are celebrated for their original blues songs and energetic performances in clubs, parties, and festivals. Their music features swing, shuffles, and funk tempos to keep dancers entertained. They’ve toured globally and recorded over 10 albums.
Cody Dickinson, known for supporting roles in The North Mississippi Allstars, makes his solo debut with “Homemade,” showcasing his skills as songwriter, vocalist, and multi-instrumentalist. The album blends Mississippi Hill Country blues with elements of southern soul, rock, and pop. Assisted by his daughter and Tikyra Jackson, Dickinson explores family themes and diverse musical styles.
Brian Landrus, renowned for his mastery of low woodwinds, collaborates with Dave Stryker, Jay Anderson, and Billy Hart to celebrate Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn’s compositions. Featuring diverse instruments, Landrus infuses these classics with rich, unique textures. This project includes standout tracks like “A Flower is a Lovesome Thing” and “Daydream.”
Derrick Dove & the Peacekeepers, known for extensive touring, released their acclaimed debut album in 2018, reaching #5 on the iTunes blues charts. After enduring personal and global challenges, including COVID and Derrick’s father’s death, they released “Rough Time” in October 2023, which topped blues charts and gained 4 million streams.
The “Patrick Wolff Quintet” album “Bay Blue” showcases Wolff’s skill on alto and tenor saxophones and features original compositions like “Cool Stones” and “Some of Frank’s Things.” The quintet boasts dynamic performances from Keith Saunders, Eric Markowitz, Evan Hughes, and Mike Olmos. Wolff, an experienced jazz musician and educator, delivers a spirited, bebop-inspired production.
Anthony Branker’s album “Songs My Mom Liked” is a heartfelt tribute to his mother, incorporating selections she reacted to during car rides. Featuring a stellar ensemble, the music blends spirituality with groove-oriented pieces, and includes three new tracks. The album celebrates life with accessibility and an emotional connection, marked by recurrent themes of faith and remembrance.
Dun-Dun Band’s debut vinyl release, “Pita Parka Pt. 1: Xam Egdub,” is a collection of three experimental tracks. Their sound blends American minimalism, jazz, and electronics, characterized by repetitive loops and improvisations. While creative, some might find the repetitiveness tedious. Reviewed by Dee Dee McNeil.
“Mariah Parker & The Indo Latin Jazz Ensemble’s album ‘Windows Through Time’ features seven easy-listening jazz compositions. Highlights include the title track with beautiful soprano vocals and saxophone solos, ‘Sol de Barcelona’ with a Middle Eastern flair, and ‘Espiritu Samba’ incorporating Afro-Cuban rhythms. The ensemble blurs Latin and Smooth Jazz styles.”
Jazz vocalist Lisa Rich returns with “Long As You’re Living,” her fourth album after a long hiatus due to illness. Co-produced by Jay Clayton, it features Marc Copland, Drew Gress, and Dave Ballou, focusing on standards and original pieces. The album highlights Rich’s adventurous scatting and intimate vocal delivery, dedicated to Clayton’s memory.
“Thankful” by Jack Pearson features spiritually rooted and inspiring songs showcasing Pearson’s exceptional musical talent. Known for his roles in The Allman Brothers Band and as a session guitarist, Pearson recorded all instruments and vocals on the album. Songs like “Sign of the Times” and “It’s All About You” display his diverse style and virtuosic string skills.
Chris Bergson, a guitarist influenced by jazz and blues, started his musical journey in Boston, later moving to New York City. Over the years, he has released several albums, blending blues, jazz, country, folk, and soul. His latest album, “Comforts of Home,” features his emotive vocals, intricate guitar work, and contributions from notable musicians.
Ping Rose, a Memphis singer and guitarist, blends blues with rock influences to create a unique musical style in “Conjure Man,” his follow-up to “Sketchbook.” The album features a mix of energetic instrumentals, funky tunes, and soulful lyrics, highlighting Rose’s exceptional guitar work and collaborations with various artists.
Shelton Powe’s album “Same Train” captures the essence of Piedmont blues with a blend of gospel, fingerpicking instrumentals, and traditional folk influences. Featuring collaborations with artists like Johnny Ray Daniels and Tim Duffy, the album offers an intimate portrayal of music deeply rooted in family and community traditions.
HOME PAGE Making a Scene Brings you an Interview with Jennifer Lyn and the Groove Revival The North Dakota based vocalist, guitarist, songwriter, engineer, and producer showcases the fiery soul of a woman immersed in the baptismal waters of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Her band, Jennifer Lyn and The Groove Revival, launched their first official album […]
THE STEVE LUCIANO QUARTET UNDER THE COVERS Independent Release Steve Luciano, guitar; Mike Avila, piano; Charlie Siva, bass; Walt Hubbard, drums; Dan Jordan, Saxophone/flute. The Steve Luciano Quartet opens with the very familiar Duke Pearson tune, “Chant.” There’s a note on the CD cover that says this tune was inspired by a performance of the […]
Oliver Wood’s second solo album, “Fat Cat Silhouette,” follows his debut “Always Smilin’” with a more experimental approach, featuring unconventional instruments and spontaneous recording. Produced by bandmate Jano Rix, the album retains Wood’s infectious groove and distinctive voice. Contributions from various artists enhance tracks with unique textures and sounds, underpinned by high energy and emotion.
Drummer and composer Matt Wilson forms a new quintet, Good Trouble, inspired by John Lewis’s legacy and his 60th birthday. The album, dedicated to notable figures like Carla Bley and Geri Allen, features a diverse mix of compositions and covers, emphasizing both traditional and avant-garde jazz. Notable tracks include the “Good Trouble Suite,” honoring Lewis and Ginsburg, and covers of Coleman and Denver. The quintet, marked by Wilson’s versatile style, delivers an uplifting, joyful album.
Gerry Casey interviews The 100 Watt Vipers, a dynamic blues-rock duo from Jacksonville, Florida, known for their gritty sound and electrifying performances. With J Burton and DJ Riddick, they mix Southern blues and rock ‘n’ roll, captivating fans with soulful lyrics and thunderous rhythms, keeping authentic blues alive and thriving.
Kenny Reichert’s album “Switch” features intricate melodies and creative compositions performed by a talented ensemble, including Ethan Philion, Devin Drobka, Lenard Simpson, Geof Bradfield, and Alyssa Allgood. Known for his inventive guitar style, Reichert collaborates with Allgood on poetic songs and lifts arrangements with his solos, spotlighting each musician’s artistry.
Phil Haynes 4 Horns & What? The Complete American Recordings (3 CDs) Corner Store Jazz Having read with much fascination Phil Haynes memoir, Chasing the Masters: First Takes of a Modern Drumming Artist, a forthcoming issuance of recordings from his band 4 Horns & What? seemed inevitable. For anyone who wants a better understanding of […]
HOME PAGE Making a Scene Brings you an Interview with Lou Black Lou Black is a Peruvian born, Washington DC based singer/songwriter/producer/video artist/statistician. His 2004 debut album (“City of No Winters”) has been described by the press as “sophisticated global pop” and “one of the best in the singer songwriter genre,” but Lou Black describes […]
Tom Collier’s “Boomer Vibes – Vol 2” showcases his extensive musical talents, playing multiple instruments, often as a one-man band, with occasional guest musicians. The album features covers of classic songs from the ’60s and ’70s, but sometimes lacks the spontaneity of live performances. A nod to composers like Jagger, McCartney, and Webb.
HOME PAGE Making a Scene Brings you an Interview with Bart Bryant How does a Connecticut transplant from Baltimore grow to pull off Austin-style hard drivin’ heavy Blues & Rock and Roll? While from Baltimore, his fluid vocals and Blues-Rock guitar style have entertained audiences in Connecticut and Austin, Texas since his teens. His solo […]
ARGENTINA DURAN RAPSODIA MEXICANA Bravo Music Argentina Durán, solo piano. The opening song of the Cuatro Danzas Mexicanas Suite by Manuel M. Ponce sounds like a spontaneous jazz improvisation. However, Argentina Duran is a respected classical pianist, and this is her second album release. She is praised as a talented, young, female, virtuoso musician. This […]