Tom Ollendorff is a prominent emerging guitarist in the UK jazz scene, set to tour with pianist Aaron Parks and his band in March 2024. Ollendorff’s album, “Where in the World,” features nine self-composed tracks blending jazz and classical influences, showcasing lyrical melodies and dynamic interactions with his bandmates.
Jonathan Karrant’s holiday album features a blend of classic tracks with fresh arrangements and collaborations. Enhanced by notable artists like Diane Schuur and Kenny Rampton, the album includes familiar songs such as “Blue Christmas” and “Silent Night.” Karrant’s engaging style and impressive collaborations make this a joyful addition to the festive season.
Greensky Bluegrass celebrates 25 years with their album XXV, showcasing their evolution through nine albums and extensive touring. The 75-minute record features 13 intricate songs, including collaborations with notable artists. Highlights include the energetic “Can’t Stop Now” and the epic “Last Winter in the Copper Country,” underscoring their unique jam-grass style.
Ted Piltzecker’s album “Peace Vibes” features a blend of jazz standards and original compositions, enriched by the contributions of trumpeter Brad Goode and South American percussionists. The album showcases warm melodies and innovative rhythms, reflecting influences from Brazilian and Peruvian cultures, and includes notable tracks like “Whisper Not” and “In A Sentimental Mood.”
Anthony Stanco’s album “In the Groove – Live at the Alluvion” revitalizes hard bop in northern Michigan, showcasing energetic performances with a quintet that includes local talent. Recorded at The Alluvion, the album blends Stanco’s originals with classic inspirations, engaging an enthusiastic audience and celebrating jazz traditions while infusing personal touches.
Vermont’s Dave Keller, an acclaimed soul and blues artist, releases his eleventh studio album, La Brea. This collection showcases his lyrical depth and musical prowess, highlighting themes of love, loss, and reflection. With heartfelt melodies and poignant storytelling, Keller’s work stands out in the modern blues scene, affirming his artistic legacy.
Samuel Wilbur’s new album, Ivory Tower, showcases his commitment to spotlighting female voices in Minneapolis while addressing urgent social issues. Collaborating with respected producers, he creates a rich indie rock opera that reflects modern America’s chaos and hope. The 13-track concept album urges awareness and action amidst climate and social crises.
Coastland Fair, formed by Tola Lamont and Kurt Michael, merges coastal soul with Americana, crafting songs blending folk, roots rock, and indie pop. Lamont’s emotive vocals and Michael’s vintage guitar tones create a unique sound rich in storytelling. Their music invites listeners on a heartfelt journey through life’s experiences.
Dayna Stephens transitions from saxophone to bass in his album “Monk’D,” showcasing his versatility alongside Ethan Iverson and Eric McPherson. The project honors Thelonious Monk with unique arrangements, including gut strings for Stephens’ bass. The quartet’s performance reflects deep respect for Monk’s legacy, highlighted by Stephan Riley’s captivating saxophone.
Jimmy Burns, an iconic soul-blues guitarist and singer, releases “Full Circle” with the Soul Message Band, blending jazz, funk, and traditional blues. The album revisits Burns’ historical recordings, capturing his musical evolution and honoring American music’s roots. Featuring remastered classics, it serves as a celebration of Chicago blues and Burns’ artistry.
Wadada Leo Smith and Sylvie Courvoisier collaborate on “Angel Falls,” an album featuring eight freely recorded tracks. Their improvisational style fosters a dynamic musical conversation, blending trumpet and piano without charts. Both renowned in the avant-garde scene, they showcase their mastery through spontaneous, emotional expressions. The project was rapidly completed in just five hours.
Billy Branch, a leading harmonica player and Chicago Blues ambassador, has greatly influenced the genre through performance, education, and advocacy. Discovered by Willie Dixon, he boasts extensive international touring and collaborations. Beyond music, Branch contributes to cultural initiatives and education, earning accolades like Grammy nominations and the Keeping the Blues Alive Award.
Adam Forkelid’s solo piano album, “Dreams,” features six tracks of beautiful improvised jazz, showcasing his creativity as a longtime member of the Scandinavian jazz scene. Highlights include the contemplative “Liminality” and the evolving “Unfold.” Forkelid expresses vulnerability and personal emotions through intimate melodies, making this project a profound artistic challenge.
Patricia Brennan’s “Of The Near and Far” excels in melding astronomy and music, creating a unique soundscape. Inspired by constellations, she uses geometry to establish new musical relationships, resulting in an eclectic mix of jazz, chamber music, and electronica. This innovative work showcases her evolution as a vibraphonist and composer, marking a significant advancement from her previous album.
The Lucky Losers, a band led by vocalists Cathy Lemons and Phil Berkowitz, celebrate their sixth studio album “Arrival.” Featuring a blend of blues, soul, and funk, the album includes personal tracks like “I Believe Her (Because I Am Her).” It showcases vibrant harmonies and various musical influences, marking their artistic evolution.
Dave Keyes’ latest album, “Two Trains,” showcases his signature blend of blues, soul, and rock, celebrating resilience amidst personal loss, particularly the death of his wife. Featuring collaborations with notable artists, the album presents original material that emphasizes positivity and life’s choices, urging listeners to embrace joy over sorrow.
Mike Casey’s “The Complete Public Access: WPAA TV Session” features his seasoned tenor sax trio in a vibrant 25-minute performance, now full-length with two new tracks. The session blends diverse influences and showcases their chemistry, recognized with an Amazon Music award. Casey’s move to Los Angeles is anticipated to enhance his career further.
Mac Gollehon & The Hispanic Mechanics blend multiple genres in their latest album featuring diverse instrumentation. Gollehon, a renowned horn player, leads with his signature sound and lyrical compositions. The group delivers a powerful rock-infused experience while exploring creative freedom. Their previous smooth jazz album was critically acclaimed.
Carlos Garnett’s 1976 album “Cosmos Nucleus” merges jazz, funk, and Afro-Caribbean influences, featuring an 18-piece horn section and multiple percussionists. Known for its ambitious, rhythm-heavy sound, the album exemplifies Garnett’s innovative artistry. With tracks like “Saxy” and “Wise Old Man,” it reflects a spiritual and energetic musical journey ahead of its time.
Mike Pope’s album “The Parts You Keep” features original compositions alongside jazz standards, showcasing his remarkable bass skills and arranging talent. Notable tracks include “Misgivings,” and tributes like “Dashan’s Flying Ubercar.” With contributions from acclaimed musicians, the album intertwines personal reflections and rich stories, creating a memorable musical experience.
Can’t Get Enough: A Tribute to Bad Company is the first tribute album celebrating the iconic English rock band. Featuring ten diverse artists, the album updates Bad Company’s classic tracks while honoring their bluesy rock roots. Standout renditions include HARDY and Halestorm, showcasing the band’s enduring influence across genres.
James “JB” Barnes, rooted in Mississippi, honors his family’s legacy through music. His album “My Mississippi Roots” features original songs and thoughtful covers, reflecting personal and societal themes. Recognized as a Great Blues Artist in 2016, JB carries the blues forward with his band, connecting past experiences with current struggles and hopes.
Mark Miller’s album This Bridge showcases his talent as an Americana artist, featuring vivid narratives and poignant lyrics. Collaborating with renowned musicians, Miller explores themes of memory, heartbreak, and resilience. Notable tracks highlight personal experiences and evoke strong emotional imagery, affirming Miller’s status in contemporary music. This is a standout release of the year.
Jimi “Primetime” Smith is an accomplished blues guitarist and vocalist, known for collaborating with legends like Etta James and Albert King. Growing up in Chicago, he was influenced by family and mentors, performing since childhood. Now based in Arizona, he remains dedicated to authentic music and self-management, focusing on sharing joy through his performances.
Preacher Stone, formed by guitarist Marty Hill and vocalist Ronnie Riddle, aims to revive Southern rock with a modern flair. Their breakout song, “Not Today,” featured in Sons of Anarchy, propelled their popularity. Known for energetic live performances, they blend hard rock, country, and blues, solidifying their status as a top-tier Southern rock band.
Ryan Hartt, a Connecticut-based harmonica player, singer, and songwriter, released “Be About It!” as his first solo album after forming the successful band Ryan Hartt and the Blue Hearts. The album showcases his exceptional harmonica skills and features an array of talented musicians, blending original blues tracks and classic covers with heartfelt vocals.
Nicholas Payton’s album “Triune” showcases a collaboration with esperanza spaulding and Karriem Riggins, blending diverse genres like jazz, funk, and hip-hop. Each artist shines in their roles, with Payton’s exceptional keyboard skills and compositions uniting their talents. The project celebrates innovative music and creative synergy among these visionary musicians.
Anders Hagberg’s album “With Hope” features a range of flutes, soprano saxophone, and other instruments, aiming to inspire resilience amid global challenges. Influenced by multiple cultures, his compositions blend folk melodies with original ideas. The music offers tranquility and promotes beauty in uncertain times, transcending genres and evoking peace.
The Affinity Trio, featuring Eric Jacobson, Pamela York, and Clay Schaub, showcases their exceptional jazz talent in a new album titled “New Outlook.” With a mix of six standards and three originals, their seamless sound—defined by masterful bass, dynamic piano, and smooth trumpet—creates an engaging listening experience, reminiscent of jazz’s golden era.
Kaitlin Cassady is an indie-folk-rock artist from Minneapolis, known for her unique blend of heartfelt storytelling and modern textures. With over 25,000 streams and media coverage, she explores themes of love and mental health. Her recent album, North Star, launched with a sold-out show, highlighting her rising prominence in music.
Sacha Boutros, a jazz vocalist residing in Paris, celebrates a century of French and American composers in her album “Paris After Dark.” With a career spanning twenty-five years, she showcases her multilingual talents and emotional storytelling. As a Global Peace Ambassador for Jazz, she intertwines music and cultural diplomacy, creating a meaningful legacy.
Joselyn Wilkinson and Don Barrozo return with “Lost & Found Highway,” their third album, reflecting their journey through memories, protests, and personal challenges. Collaborating with notable musicians, they combine powerful vocals and skilled guitar work while addressing themes of love, roots, and social issues, culminating in a message of resilience and affirmation.
Pavlov’s Dog, formed in the 1970s, blends rock, classical, and folk music, achieving cult status. Their latest album, Wonderlust, showcases renewed creativity and skill, featuring member collaborations and David Surkamp’s unique vocals. With engaging tracks and profound themes, the band continues to evolve, proving their lasting relevance in progressive rock.
Noah Garabedian’s “Quartets & Solos” features a blend of quartet compositions and solo performances, showcasing electronic atmospheres. While pieces like “Fast Slow” and “Casual Friday” stand out for their engagement, interludes disrupt the flow. Overall, Garabedian’s compositional talent shines through in an innovative yet uneven recording.
Juan Pastor’s Chinchano combines Afro-Peruvian and jazz traditions through dynamic arrangements and skilled performances. The ensemble features tenor saxophone, piano, and various percussion instruments, creating infectious rhythms. Highlights include the joyful “Celinda” and the contemplative title track, showcasing Pastor’s mastery in composition and drumming. The album reflects a rich cultural exploration.
Pete Mills leads a jazz quartet featuring organ, guitar, and drums, showcasing original compositions. Mills, a seasoned saxophonist and educator, contributes three tracks to the album. The group demonstrates strong chemistry and swing in pieces like “The Kid,” “Bird Lives,” and “Kenny, Ken,” creating an engaging listening experience.
Bill Scorzari’s double album, “Sidereal Days (Day 1),” showcases his literate songwriting and unique sound. Featuring personal and emotional tracks, it blends various musical elements with deeply reflective lyrics. Collaborating with top musicians, Scorzari’s distinctive voice enhances each piece, inviting listeners to engage fully with the music over multiple listens.
Mike Bourne has been captivating global audiences with his jump blues and roots music since 1998. His latest album, “Kansas City O’Clock,” features high-energy tracks that celebrate the spirit of Kansas City. Collaborating with top musicians, Bourne’s music blends humor, reflections, and vibrant rhythms, resonating with his signature style.
Luther Dickinson’s “Dead Blues Vol 1.” reinterprets classic blues songs with a unique blend of Memphis funk and jazz, diverging from traditional blues styles. Featuring Datrian Johnson’s jazz-influenced vocals, the album showcases innovative arrangements of tracks by renowned artists, reflecting a creative evolution inspired by influences from the Grateful Dead.
J.T. Lauritsen, a Norwegian musician and accordionist, formed The Buckshot Hunters in 1991. Their latest album, Still Be Friends, celebrates his 30-year career. The collection blends blues, soul, and rock, featuring tracks like “How Come My Bulldog Don’t Bark” and “Still Be Friends,” showcasing collaborations and heartfelt performances by Lauritsen and guest artists.
Erin Harpe’s album “Let The Mermaids Flirt With Me” pays tribute to Mississippi John Hurt, blending her blues roots with original and traditional songs. Harpe’s journey from electro-pop to blues showcases her talents. The album, recorded during the pandemic, features ten tracks celebrating Hurt’s legacy and emotive storytelling intertwined with themes of mortality.
Miss Emily, a talented singer from Ontario, emerged in the 1990s with bold performances that showcased her fearless approach to music. Her latest album, The Medicine, explores themes of unity, resilience, and vulnerability, reflecting her artistic evolution. Recognized with multiple awards, she invites audiences to connect through her emotive performances and storytelling.
BillyBoy Miskimmin is a prominent figure in the Northern Ireland music scene since the 1980s, renowned for his harmonica skills and soulful performances. He gained international recognition with the band Nine Below Zero and later with The Yardbirds, collaborating with legendary artists and showcasing his versatility across various genres. His career reflects a deep commitment to the blues.
Karen Lefrak and Sharon Isbin collaborate on the album “Romantico,” showcasing Lefrak’s lyrical compositions and Isbin’s acclaimed guitar artistry. Isbin, an award-winning guitarist with a diverse repertoire, has performed globally and produced over 40 albums. Lefrak, a versatile composer and author, adds depth to this musical project, promising an enriching experience.
Mark Cameron, a Minnesota-based musician, blends blues with folk-rock influences honed over thirty years. His ninth album, Blues Factory, presents original songs with diverse themes, showcasing a talented ensemble. Tracks range from reflective to humorous, all underscored by Cameron’s strong vocals and engaging melodies, proving the blues can embody modern experiences.
Kate Wyatt’s album “Murmurations” showcases original jazz compositions by her trio, featuring a creative reimagining of “Mack the Knife.” Inspired by the synchronized movement of birds, the album captures a profound musical connection among the musicians. With mesmerizing piano and engaging arrangements, it promises an exciting experience in modern jazz.
The Name Droppers, a blues-rock band from Connecticut, comprises seasoned musicians with impressive careers. Featuring Bobby “T” Torello on drums, Rafe Klein on guitar, Scott Spray on bass, and Ron Rifkin on keys, they blend authenticity and soul, creating a modern sound while honoring rock and blues legends. Their chemistry is electric.
Gary Bartz, at 83, releases his first album in twelve years, “Damage Control,” transforming popular R&B tracks into jazz treasures. Collaborating with an all-star cast, Bartz’s arrangements reflect his rich musical journey and social consciousness, offering uplifting messages of redemption and love. This album heralds a personal investment in his artistry.
Jussi Reijonen’s upcoming album “sayr: salt/thirst” features a dual-movement suite for solo guitar, integrating various string instruments. Recorded in March, it reflects his introspective journey, emphasizing simplicity and emotional resonance. Distinct from his previous work, it showcases a unique soundscape, set for release on October 24, 2025.
Paul Litteral, aptly nicknamed ‘Hollywood Paul,’ significantly influences the LA music scene. His new album melds pop, jazz, and rock, featuring classic tunes reimagined by Litteral and his band, including songs by Donald Fagen and Bill Withers. This collection reflects Litteral’s journey through diverse music genres and personal growth.