CD Reviews on projects by Jazz artists
The Temple University Jazz Band, led by GRAMMY-winning trumpeter Terell Stafford, toured Japan and recorded a live album celebrating jazz culture. Their performance at Akasaka B-Flat in Tokyo featured classic Ellington pieces and showcased the talent of students, particularly drummer Maria Marmarou. The album releases on February 6, 2026.
The Baltimore Jazz Collective, founded by trumpeter Sean Jones, showcases a distinctive sound that reflects the city’s vibrant music scene. With talented members like tap dancer Brinae Ali and composers like Alex Brown and Todd Marcus, their original compositions blend blues influences and interactive performances, celebrating Baltimore’s cultural richness.
The trio “Elipsis,” featuring Michael League, Pedrito Martinez, and Antonio Sanchez, unites to present a fusion of West African religious chants and contemporary Cuban rhythms. Their music, rich with cultural diversity and historical significance, showcases unique instruments and modern influences. It serves as a powerful narrative of survival and legacy through rhythm and song.
Wes Smith’s album “We, The Funky – Vol 1” showcases a blend of contemporary jazz, pop, R&B, and smooth jazz. Featuring deep grooves and rich arrangements, Smith, a multi-instrumentalist, reflects on his Los Angeles journey. While initially promising funk, the album leans towards smoother sounds, with only a couple of funky tracks.
Gil Livni’s album “All In” showcases his exceptional guitar skills alongside a talented quartet featuring saxophone, organ, and drums. The album includes seven original compositions and unique covers, blending jazz, funk, and blues. Notable tracks include the energetic “Wonder Woman” and the soulful “All In,” highlighting each musician’s talent.
The Dave Wilson Quartet’s album “When Even Goes East” features Dave Wilson on saxophones, with a special appearance by Lenny Castro. Inspired by his NYC cab driver days, Wilson covers 1960s and 70s pop tunes, including Jimmy Webb’s works. The album showcases original compositions with dynamic arrangements and emotive melodies.
Roberto Fonseca and Vincent Ségal collaborate on “Nuit Parisienne À La Havane,” blending Cuban and European classical influences with contemporary jazz. Their eleven original compositions reveal storytelling through music, showcasing Fonseca’s rich piano legacy and Ségal’s versatile cello artistry. The album evokes deep emotion and cultural fusion, creating a captivating auditory journey.
Jon Irabagon’s quartet “PlainsPeak” showcases a blend of straight-ahead and avant-garde jazz, featuring musicians like trumpeter Russ Johnson and bassist Clark Sommers. The album reflects Irabagon’s deep connection to Chicago, its music, and his artistic journey, with compositions that highlight emotional depth and musical exploration.
Saxophonist Kate Olson’s quartet, featuring notable guest musicians, presents a unique blend of original compositions and a cover of Alice Coltrane’s “Translinear Light.” The ensemble showcases various musical styles, from blues to contemporary grooves, delivering emotionally resonant performances. Olson’s extensive experience enhances their vibrant, innovative sound.
Omrum, a Copenhagen jazz quartet, produces free jazz in a renovated barn on Denmark’s Møn island. Comprised of trumpet, trombone, double bass, and drums, their ten compositions blend improvisation with written notes, showcasing each member’s unique voice. Their avant-garde sound invites listeners to explore new sonic worlds, exemplified by tracks like “Intermezzo No. 2.”
The Satoko Fujii Quartet’s “Burning Wick,” released by Libra Records, showcases Fujii’s innovative blend of jazz and contemporary classical music. After a 20-year hiatus, the quartet reunites to explore improvisation, as seen in tracks like “Solar Orbit” and “Rain in the Wee Small Hours,” where creativity and unexpected transitions flourish, highlighting their artistic freedom.
The Vancouver Jazz Orchestra collaborates with Brian Charette on a vibrant debut album featuring original jazz tunes. The ensemble highlights local talent, showcasing creative arrangements and captivating solos. Artistic Director James Danderfer successfully presents this 17-piece orchestra’s dedication to American jazz, creating an entertaining celebration of Vancouver’s musical community.
Eddie Allen’s album “Rhythm People” features a dynamic ensemble with original compositions and innovative arrangements blending various genres, including jazz, reggae, and Latin influences. Notable performances include solos from Allen and special guest Steve Turre. The album captures the essence of jazz creativity and connects deeply with listeners through its infectious rhythms.
The Afro-Metis Nation’s album “Anthem” celebrates the 250-year heritage of Black and Indigenous people in Maritime Canada. Executive produced by Professor George Elliot Clarke, the music combines themes of oppression and perseverance, showcasing unique cultural experiences. The group advocates for recognition and challenges government injustices through their art.
Vance Thompson, a Grammy-nominated musician, transitioned from trumpet to vibraphone after battling a neurological disorder. His debut album “Lost and Found,” showcases his joyful compositions, featuring skilled performances by his ensemble. With a blend of swinging numbers and beautiful ballads, Thompson’s music spreads happiness and highlights his resilience and creativity.
Mattias Svensson’s album “Embrace,” featuring pianist Bill Mays and drummer Morten Lund, showcases the trio’s exceptional talents through nine original compositions. The opening track, “My Toots Toots,” captivates with its vibrant jazz waltz, while pieces like “Bluetiful” and “Erik Satir” highlight Svensson’s double bass mastery and the group’s cohesive energy, making the album a delightful experience.
Wild Blue Herons, featuring Darlene Cooper and Bill Sample, has evolved into a groove-oriented band with a new horn section. Their album showcases a blend of jazz, funky ballads, and smooth pop, highlighting their lyrical compassion and musical creativity. Both artists bring extensive experience, contributing to a contemporary, uplifting sound.
Michael Dease’s album “Spartan Strong” showcases the MSU Jazz Trombones, highlighting their achievements in jazz music education. The project reflects Dease’s mentorship and his ambition to inspire future musicians. Featuring lively arrangements and guest artists, the album offers a blend of impressive trombone harmonies and memorable melodies throughout its tracks.
The Patrick Smith trio, featuring saxophones, guitar, and drums, is a notable part of Toronto’s jazz scene. Known for their performances in a beloved bookstore, their album showcases Smith’s exploratory saxophone, blending jazz and rock influences. Each track offers unique musical experiences, highlighting the trio’s masterful improvisation and creativity.
Naseem Alatrash’s debut album, “Bright Colors on a Dark Canvas,” merges Arabic music, contemporary classical, and jazz traditions. As a cellist and composer, he showcases lyrical beauty through original compositions, pushing the boundaries of Middle Eastern music. The album features collaborations with various musicians and highlights Alatrash’s mastery of cello and innovative arrangements.
Betty Bryant, a 96-year-old jazz legend, showcases her enduring talent in “Nothin’ Better To Do.” With heartfelt storytelling, she revives classic tunes and shares personal narratives through her music. Collaborating with skilled musicians, Bryant captures the essence of life’s lessons and her rich legacy, continuing to entertain audiences worldwide.
“Echoes” features Luke Marantz and Simon Jermyn, blending contemporary classical music with electronics and jazz. This collaborative album, set for release on January 9, 2026, showcases their unique partnership despite long-distance recording. The music evokes relaxation and freedom, paralleling the serene album cover of soaring birds.
Spinifex Maxximus, a leading European improvisational group, fuses classical music with punk, rock, and free jazz. Based in Amsterdam, their latest album features intricate arrangements, showcasing unique compositions like Jasper Stadhouders’ “Smitten” and Tobias Klein’s “Phoenix.” The ensemble, strengthened by guest artists, emphasizes acoustic sound and creative improvisation.
RICK ROE WAKE UP CALL – THE MUSIC OF GREGG HILL Cold Plunge Records Rick Roe, piano; Robert Hurst, bass; Nate Winn, drums; Marcus Elliot, tenor & soprano saxophone. Gregg Hill is 79-years old and is largely self-taught. He has been writing songs for as long as he can remember and his catalog is plump […]
Paul Ricci’s album “The Path” showcases a rich blend of funk and fusion, drawing from diverse musical influences like jazz, blues, and Caribbean styles. Featuring dynamic compositions and collaborations, including emotional vocals by Abdoulaye Diabate, Ricci’s work encourages cultural unity through music, promoting inclusivity in a time of division.
John Clay’s album “About Time” features a talented ensemble, showcasing familiar jazz standards with creative arrangements. Emerging from Louisville, Clay’s prolific career includes performances with legends like Bill Withers and Zoot Sims. The album, releasing January 23rd, highlights engaging collaborations, particularly with vocalist Ruby Pucillo, who adds unique flair to jazz classics.
Brad Schrader’s album “Late Nights” features his interpretations of the American songbook, showcasing his vocal talents along with skilled musicians. With heartfelt arrangements and a blend of jazz styles, Schrader captures the essence of intimate piano bars. Though not technically flawless, his sincerity resonates, and he uniquely sings “Corcavado” in Portuguese.
Valeria Stewart’s debut album “Raíces / Roots” showcases her unique blend of contemporary jazz with folk and Americana influences, sung in Spanish. As a talented vocalist and guitarist, she co-wrote five of the seven tracks. Stewart, also a preschool teacher, aims to bridge cultures through her heartfelt music.
Masabumi Kikuchi Hanamachi’s final studio recording features emotional solo piano interpretations that blend familiar tunes with improvisational flair. Recorded in December 2013, this album highlights his contemplative expression, drawing from his jazz roots. Despite his passing in 2015, Kikuchi’s legacy continues through his stunning musicianship and soulful artistry.
Martin Bonventre’s debut cabaret album, produced by Jackie Presti, features eight dramatic tunes showcasing his baritone voice. While more a theatrical vocalist than a jazz singer, Bonventre delivers emotionally rich interpretations, such as “She’s Out of My Life.” Accompanied by a talented jazz band, he embodies the narrative of a storyteller through familiar songs.
“Arid Landscapes” features musicians Noah Franche-Nolan and Dan Pitt, who, despite geographical distance, collaborated during COVID-19 to create a unique album blending jazz with ambient and electronic music. Their innovative soundscapes explore improvisation and themes of nature, showcasing their deep musical connection and pushing genre boundaries.
Dave Stryker’s album “Blue Fire” features an energizing guitar and organ trio sound with Jared Gold and McClenty Hunter. Recorded at Rudy Van Gelder’s studio, it includes original compositions and clever arrangements of standards. Stryker’s passion for music and collaboration shines, marking yet another exciting addition to his discography.
Vincent Peirani’s album “Living Being IV: Time Reflections” showcases his quintet’s unique blend of accordion jazz, featuring original compositions and a medley titled “Bremain Suite.” This suite incorporates rock and pop songs by artists like David Bowie and Queen. The review highlights Peirani’s innovative style, though notes occasional repetitiveness.
Wanees Zarour’s album “Silwan” showcases his Palestinian heritage through a fusion of Middle Eastern music and jazz. As the composer and arranger, he leads the East Loop ensemble, blending traditional sounds with modern improvisation. The album highlights cultural themes, with tracks like “Lifta” honoring historical resilience and “Festival” celebrating joy.
David Bode’s album “Good Hang,” reflecting his roots in New Orleans music, features a 19-piece big band. With arrangements inspired by John Coltrane and original compositions, the recording celebrates resilience post-Hurricane Katrina. Bode, a saxophonist and band leader, integrates diverse influences, showcasing a vibrant mix of jazz styles.
Eshaan Sood is a native of New Delhi, India. He was a graphic artist and creatively, he wanted to write graphic novels. Fate had other plans. In 2015, Sood and his roommate began a journey, taking a drive seven-hours to Puducherry to enjoy a country-wide festival. They were in a horrendous accident just twenty minutes from their home. The accident caused severe facial trauma and left Sood blind.
Rafael Enciso’s debut album “Crossfade” features original compositions that seamlessly blend like nature’s seasons. Produced by Dayna Stephens, the album showcases Enciso’s creative bass work alongside talented musicians. Highlights include captivating saxophone solos and dynamic drumming. The album promises surprises, showcasing Enciso’s potential as a skilled bassist and composer.
ZurHub, formed in 2017 by Mattan Klein and Ezequiel Hezi Jait, blends Brazilian rhythms with jazz harmonies in their album. The quintet showcases an innovative sound influenced by genres such as Israeli folk and European classical music. Notable tracks include “Social Trust” and “Feliz,” highlighting their cultural fusion.
Francesca Prihasti’s debut album “Beneath the Sun” features seven original contemporary jazz compositions, blending piano with electronics. Reflecting on personal themes like motherhood and the pandemic, she explores truth and connection. While showcasing technical skill, her improvisational style needs development. The album, releasing January 16, 2026, promises a bright future.
Brandon Sanders, a late-starting drummer and composer, releases his latest jazz album, “Lasting Impression,” showcasing talented musicians like Warren Wolf and Jazzmeia Horn. Raised in a musical environment, Sanders aims to connect through his art, blending energy and warmth in his compositions. He praises producer Willie Jones III for his support.
Rick Roe’s “Wake Up Call,” featuring the music of Gregg Hill, showcases Roe’s unique arrangements of Hill’s compositions, alongside a talented quartet. With influences from Detroit’s jazz scene, Roe reimagines pieces through varied tempos and styles, emphasizing blues and post-bop elements, resulting in a vibrant, engaging album without any ballads.
The album “Let’s Not Wait: The Music of Ed Bonoff,” featuring drummer Greg Burrows and esteemed jazz musicians, celebrates Ed Bonoff’s compositions. Highlighting tracks like “Piazza Navona” and “Meatloaf and Margaux,” it showcases powerful horn arrangements and Burrows’s drumming. The album offers a fresh perspective on Bonoff’s talent and jazz artistry.
Bijan Taghavi’s album “Cactus Sessions” showcases his exceptional solo piano skills, blending emotion and technique through cherished jazz standards. Notably influenced by mentors, Taghavi emphasizes the importance of resilience and musical growth. His mastery is evident in his rich sound, improvisations, and impeccable timing, making this album a captivating experience.
“Painting the Dream” is an artful jazz album by John Gunther featuring Dawn Clement and Dru Heller. With beautiful compositions and unique vocal additions, the trio creates rich musical textures. Gunther’s woodwind solos and Clement’s imaginative improvisations add depth, while Heller maintains rhythmic creativity. A captivating auditory experience.
Bassist Rafael Enciso’s debut album, Crossfade, features his quartet blending harmonically rich sounds influenced by his Ithaca upbringing. Produced by Dayna Stephens, its tracks explore the interplay of past and present through melodies and rhythms, creating an intriguing, relaxing listening experience. Enciso emerges as a visionary composer with this cohesive collection.
“Convergence” is Colorado’s leading modern jazz sextet, featuring original compositions on their album “Reckless Meter.” With standout tracks like “Big Boot” and “Springaling,” the ensemble showcases individual musician excellence within a cohesive group dynamic. The album exemplifies their shared artistic vision and connection in jazz, providing an engaging listening experience.
Gregory Groover Jr.’s sophomore album “Old Knew” features a stellar lineup, including vibraphonist Joel Ross and drummer Kendrick Scott. The album, emphasizing interaction among musicians, navigates themes of agitation and melody within a church-influenced soundscape. Notable tracks pay tribute to Groover’s family, showcasing his growth as a composer and leader.
Drummer Eric McPherson leads a unique “Double Bass Quartet” featuring bassists John Hébert and Ben Street, alongside pianist David Virelles. This innovative project showcases intricate arrangements and improvisation, highlighting the synergy between the musicians. The album offers a blend of creative compositions, including tributes to Andrew Hill and captivating melodies, showcasing McPherson’s exceptional drumming skills.
Jimbo Ross, a renowned five-string electric viola/violin player, has had a prolific career collaborating with icons like Frank Sinatra and Paul McCartney. His latest jazz album, “Jazz Passion and Latin Satin,” showcases his unique sound and improvisational skills, alongside talented musicians. The album features diverse tracks, blending genres and highlighting Ross’s virtuosity.
Aretha Tillotson’s sophomore album, “Kinda Out West,” features original compositions highlighting her band, including notable jazz musicians. The album blends contemporary jazz with emotive pieces like “Lullaby to those Before” and energetic tracks such as “Sphere of Influence.” Tillotson’s bass and her quartet showcase remarkable improvisation and musicality throughout.