Anthony Branker’s album “Manifestations of a Diasporic Groove & Spirit” features compositions that reflect on cultural identity and social issues. Notable tracks include “The Children of Lyles Station,” which recounts a tragic historical event, and “Stolen Sisters,” honoring indigenous women missing or murdered. Branker’s work merges music with deep storytelling.
The album “Plaid Pants” by Ron Cyger and Brent Butterworth showcases their compositional partnership, featuring a mix of original tunes and diverse musical styles. With contributions from various percussionists, the album highlights their collaboration and musical chemistry, blending jazz elements with Latin and blues influences for a celebratory experience.
Jim Lauderdale’s album “The Birds Know,” his 39th, showcases ten captivating bluegrass songs in collaboration with the Po’ Ramblin’ Boys. Rooted in Southern values and inspired by various artists, Lauderdale addresses themes of love, hope, and socio-political issues. The songs blend humor and heartfelt lyrics, embodying the essence of Americana.
The album “The Vigil and the Sleeping Giant” by Ron Wilkins and Rebecca Patterson features a four-part suite inspired by the COVID pandemic, reflecting Wilkins’ personal experience with the virus. The tracks blend various instruments and styles, expressing themes of survival, gratitude, and emotional resilience through innovative big band arrangements.
Faye Carol’s double release “Forever Dynamic” showcases her unique approach to blues and jazz, blending traditional and contemporary styles. Praised by notable artists, her raw vocal delivery reinterprets familiar tunes while celebrating a diverse repertoire. Highlights include innovative takes on classics, demonstrating her versatility and deep connection to Black music.
Mativetsky Amiri Pagé’s album “Metamorphose” features a trio of talented musicians: Amir Amiri on santur, Shawn Mativetsky on tabla, and Sarah Pagé on harp and electronics. Their collaboration blends Middle Eastern and world music influences, showcasing unique compositions and improvisation, creating an evolving and organic sound.
Catherine Russell’s “Live at Jazz at Lincoln Center” is her first live album, recorded on March 29, 2024. Focusing on vintage jazz, she showcases lesser-known works from various artists, supported by a horn section and tap dancer Michela Marino Lerman. The album blends nostalgic tunes with vibrant performances, reflecting Russell’s musical heritage.
The Paul Keller Orchestra, featuring celebrated composer Gregg Hill, showcases ten vibrant jazz compositions, including standout tracks like “Thank You Notes” and “Bopportunity.” As they prepare to celebrate forty years in 2027, the orchestra embodies dynamic arrangements, skilled musicianship, and energetic rhythms, continuing to captivate listeners with their joyful sound.
In 2026, Blue Moods, a collective of Posi-Tone artists, pays tribute to Miles Davis through the album “Directions and Expressions.” Featuring compositions from the ’50s to ’80s, the sextet explores various musical styles while omitting a trumpet, highlighting the innovative compositions of Davis and his collaborators, presenting fresh interpretations.
Jennifer Lyn & The Groove Revival have made a significant impact on the modern blues scene since their 2021 EP “Nothing Holding Me Down.” Their live album “Electric Eden,” recorded in North Dakota, features eight original tracks and showcases their powerful musicianship. With multiple award nominations, the band’s energetic performances continue to attract a growing audience.
HOME PAGE Making a Scene Presents an Interview with Katy Vernon Katy was born and raised in London, UK, but over the past dozen-plus years she’s become one of Minnesota’s busiest and most recognizable musicians. Blending melodic pop-folk songwriting with the twang and drive of an Americana band, Katy delivers songs that are hooky, heartfelt, […]
Mike Guldin, a seasoned guitarist and vocalist, has spent over 45 years honing his blues career. Leading Rollin’ & Tumblin’, Guldin’s music blends Chicago blues, Southern rock, and soul, delivering energetic performances. His recent works, including “The Franklin Sessions,” capture an authentic vibe, showcasing his deep roots and passion for the genre.
Tigran Hamasyan’s album “Manifeste” merges Armenian spiritual traditions with progressive elements, blending jazz and rock. It showcases unique instrumentation, including the blul and daf, alongside electronic sounds and choir vocals. With tracks like “Prelude for All Seekers” and “Seven Sorrows,” Hamasyan’s composition emphasizes melodic integrity and innovative arrangements.
The Oscar Peterson Trio’s live recordings at Baker’s Keyboard Lounge capture the legendary pianist’s extraordinary talent alongside Ray Brown and Ed Thigpen. The album features dynamic interpretations of jazz standards, blending classical influences with vibrant rhythms. Each performance showcases their virtuosic musicianship, making this collection a vital addition for jazz enthusiasts.
Reverend Freakchild is a versatile musician known for his blend of blues, spirituals, and hymns. Performing solo and with notable artists, he has released numerous albums, including the recent “A Bluesman Of Sorts.” His music reflects a deep spiritual journey, blending traditional elements with personal introspection, rooted in his Buddhist beliefs.
Corcoran Holt’s album “Freedom of Art” blends personal testimony and artistic freedom, featuring a variety of musicians and intimate family moments. Composed during the pandemic, it highlights jazz as a transformative force and celebrates creativity. The music reflects joy, experimentation, and a connection to heritage, encouraging listeners to embrace their truth.
Sassparilla, a Portland-based punk-Americana band led by Kevin Blackwell, combines traditional American roots with punk energy. Their music, marked by gritty storytelling and dynamic live performances, explores themes of hard luck and redemption. With a sound that fuses blues and folk, they offer an authentic, high-energy experience best enjoyed live.
Michael Moody’s album “The Ecstasy of Love” features a dozen classic love songs from the Great American Songbook, showcasing his unique vocal style through creative arrangements and improvisation. Influenced by Billie Holiday and dedicated to Carmen McRae, Moody combines smooth tone and skilled phrasing, though some melodic choices may disappoint traditionalists.
Corey Harris, Alvin Youngblood Hart, and Guy Davis deliver a refreshing blues experience in “Fight On! True Blues Vol. 2,” showcasing their respect for traditional acoustic delta blues. With a mix of classic and new songs, they vividly evoke the essence of past Black musicians, emphasizing the importance of preserving this art form through their engaging performances.
Willy Rodriguez’s album “In the Unknown (I Will Find You)” features ethereal compositions inspired by loss, showcasing his drums alongside Leo Genovese’s piano and Ingrid Laubrock’s saxophone. The thoughtful pieces, accented by Allan Harris’ spoken word, explore deep emotions and aim to connect with experiences of love and remembrance.
Carl Clements’ album “Retrospective” showcases his innovative blend of global musical influences, featuring woodwind instruments like the bansuri. The Real Jazz Trio, comprising Jean-Yves Jung, Johannes Schaedlich, and Jens Biehl, delivers tight performances across nine original compositions. The album reflects deep roots in jazz, Indian, and Latin music, celebrating creativity and collaboration.
Seth James’ latest album, “Motormouth,” showcases his Texas blues and roots artistry, blending Southern rock and soulful rhythms. Featuring expressive vocals and sharp guitar work, the album highlights both original tracks and covers. Recorded with seasoned musicians, it aims to create a vibrant, communal musical experience through its diverse sound.
Mike Guldin, a seasoned guitarist and singer-songwriter, showcases his blues-infused tracks in his album “While I Can.” With influences from legendary musicians and heartfelt lyrics, the album explores themes of love, reflection, and living meaningfully. Featuring collaborations with notable artists, Guldin’s work resonates with authenticity and depth.
Alexis P. Suter is a renowned blues and soul artist with a powerful voice, nominated for multiple Blues Music Awards. Leading her six-piece band, she creates emotionally impactful performances that resonate with audiences. With a new album produced by Byron Isaacs and a recent signing with Nola Blue Records, they aim to reach a broader audience.
The album “Bill Evans at the BBC” captures a 1965 performance of the legendary jazz pianist with bassist Chuck Israels and drummer Larry Bunker. Featuring spontaneous interpretations and unique arrangements of familiar standards, the remastered recording showcases their collective artistry and chemistry, offering an insightful glimpse into Evans’ innovative approach to jazz.
Gerry Casey interviews Aleksandra Josic of the band Here and Everywhere, known for their powerful live performances and emotional depth. Blending rock with cinematic elements, they excel in various settings and have shared stages with notable acts. Their music evokes a deep emotional response, with Josic’s voice as the centerpiece of their compelling sound.
Dana Fuchs is a soulful blues rocker influenced by Janis Joplin. Her live album “Live In Denmark,” recorded in 2025, features original songs co-written with Jon Diamond and includes covers. Fuchs embraces vulnerability and power, aiming to connect with audiences after the pandemic affected her previous work.
Lexie Blue’s album “Too Glam To Give A Damn” features 10 tracks that blend blues and soul with modern flair. Celebrated for her powerful vocals and storytelling, Blue showcases a mix of grit and glam, backed by a dynamic band. The album embodies themes of resilience, empowerment, and unapologetic identity.
Ray Obiedo’s latest album combines Latin energy and contemporary jazz, featuring vocal arrangements and standout performances from various musicians. Highlights include a unique rendition of “Ain’t No Sunshine” and Obiedo’s original “El Matador,” showcasing his impressive guitar skills. Every track promises to captivate jazz and Latin music enthusiasts alike.
The Avery Set, formed in the early 2000s in Michigan, evolved from a duo to a full band with a commitment to songwriting. After several albums and a relocation to Nashville, they embraced a new style. In 2023, the classic lineup reunited to record live in Arkansas, focusing on genuine musical connection.
Connor Bernhard’s album “Pathways” features original compositions showcasing his trumpet skills alongside talented musicians. Notable tracks include the crowd-pleasing “Jackalope,” the challenging “Altitude,” and the tribute “Claudio.” The arrangements blend jazz styles, featuring pieces like “Dat Dere” and “Wichita Lineman.” The review highlights the importance of clear credits on the album cover.
Michel Petrucciani, a talented pianist who overcame physical challenges, recorded a remarkable live album with his trio at the Kuumbwa Jazz Center in 1987. The double disc features his innovative compositions alongside jazz standards, highlighting his distinctive style. Petrucciani’s legacy endures through his music and the memories shared by his family and colleagues.
Mark Adams leads a collaboration of fifteen talented musicians in the album “This is Neo-Soul,” showcasing rich jazz and funk influences. While tracks like “Sweet Tears” and “Don’t Stop (the feeling)” groove strongly, the album lacks a standout soloist to unify its dynamic compositions. It’s an homage to the 1970s sound reminiscent of iconic artists.
Benjie Porecki’s album “Faster Than We Know” features eight original compositions and a cover of “Superstar.” Blending contemporary funk jazz, Porecki showcases his versatility on piano, organ, and keyboards alongside Cory Baker and Mark Prince. The collection is characterized by melodic richness and dynamic arrangements, appealing to diverse musical tastes.
Mark Tonelli’s album “Brasileira” showcases his original compositions influenced by Brazilian culture, developed during his time teaching and performing in Brazil. However, the collaboration with musicians often feels disjointed, as their improvisations clash with Tonelli’s guitar melodies. The review highlights moments of disconnect, leaving the listener puzzled about the artistic cohesion.
Amani Burnham, a talented young musician adopted from Ethiopia, showcases his blues-rock prowess with his debut album “Roots & Wings,” set for release on May 29, 2026. His viral Instagram performance highlights his exceptional guitar skills, influenced by blues legends. The album features introspective lyrics and a blend of groovy rhythms and soulful vocals.
Christina Crofts, an acclaimed Australian singer-songwriter and guitarist, emerges from the blues-rock scene with a distinctive slide guitar style and commanding presence. Growing up in a multicultural family, she refined her craft in various bands, leading to successful performances at major festivals. Her fifth album, Best of Bottleneck, reached #1 on charts, solidifying her impactful career.
The Robert Jospé Quartet’s album “The Night Sky” showcases their vibrant blend of Latin rhythms and melodic beauty. Featuring talented musicians, including Jospé on drums, Daniel Clarke on piano, and Chris Whiteman on guitar, each track highlights their musicianship and energy. The album culminates in a captivating finale with a solo by Jospé.
Jamie Williams & the Roots Collective is a dynamic live band known for delivering fun and engaging performances across the UK. With strong songwriting and a mix of country blues, rock, and Americana influences, they’ve garnered a loyal following and shared stages with notable acts. Their mission is to ensure an unforgettable night out for their audience.
Elemental Records has released “Feeling Alright: The Complete 1975 Nancy Pulsations Concert,” showcasing Freddie King’s electric performance in France. Featuring sixteen blues tracks, the album captures King’s vibrant energy and the dynamic chemistry with his band. It celebrates his legacy through live recordings and includes a pictorial biography and insights from notable figures.
Aaron Irwin’s “Spark,” featuring the Aaron Irwin Trio, showcases a blend of Americana, folk, and jazz through original compositions. With Irwin on saxophone and bass clarinet, supported by guitarist Mike Baggetta and drummer Bill Campbell, the album emphasizes improvisation and lyrical melodies, highlighting their long-standing camaraderie and musical chemistry.
The Badrock Blues Band, formed in 1992, created their debut album, Shadows, after decades of live performances and personal hardships, including the sudden loss of a member. The band channeled grief into their music, recording the album in 2025 as a tribute to their friendship and shared passion for blues and rock.
Tierney Sutton collaborates with pianist Tamir Hendelman on her 17th album, a duo project celebrating the theme of spring. Their chemistry shines through in interpretations of classic jazz tunes, showcasing Sutton’s vocal storytelling and Hendelman’s creative piano. The album blends emotion and mastery, creating a soothing musical experience.
“Oná,” a Canadian chamber-jazz ensemble formed in 2024, presents a blend of Brazilian and classical influences. Their album “Sem Vocé” features unique instrument combinations but lacks the vibrant energy typical of Brazilian music. Highlight tracks include tributes and smooth harmonies, yet they fall short of conveying the joy associated with Brazilian traditions.
David Basse’s album “The War Within,” recorded live at Kulak’s Woodshed, features a dynamic jazz trio and showcases Basse’s talents as a drummer, vocalist, and composer. The album includes original compositions and humorous, storytelling lyrics, highlighting Basse’s experience in the Kansas City music scene and his tribute to jazz traditions.
Ben Musser’s solo debut, “Sentimental Fever,” marks a significant milestone after two decades in music. As a one-man band, Musser wrote all eleven tracks and played multiple instruments, showcasing his artistic evolution. The album blends personal themes with Americana influences, reflecting confidence and authenticity, making it a compelling and heartfelt work.
Daphne Roubini leads Black Gardenia, a popular Vancouver jazz ensemble noted for blending vintage and contemporary sounds. Their music, characterized by Roubini’s captivating voice and unique arrangements, showcases both original compositions and classic covers. Their debut release on Cellar Live Records features a nostalgic yet modern approach to jazz, exemplifying their distinct style.
Entre Amigos releases their third album, “Joyful Foundation: The Music of Justin Copeland,” featuring compositions by trumpeter Justin Copeland and ensemble members. The blend of styles showcases advanced harmonics and rhythmic variety. Copeland’s impressive background enhances the group’s vibrant sound, marking a notable progression in their musical journey.
Gafieira Rio Miami is an eleven-piece group that revives vibrant Brazilian music from the 1940s to 1960s, blending jazz with samba and other styles. They feature notable Brazilian artists and a diverse range of rhythms, captivating listeners with energetic performances that encourage dance and joy. The album includes various guest musicians and innovative tracks.
Dave Vargo’s fourth album, “Ghost Towns,” showcases his roots rock style, blending Americana with catchy melodies. Notable tracks include the reflective “Anything at All” and the hopeful “New Life.” While Vargo excels with inventive guitar work and storytelling, he sometimes falls into overly poppy territory, maintaining an engaging yet complex outlook on life’s challenges.
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