CD Reviews on projects by Jazz artists
Patrick Zimmerli’s 14th album, “Songs of Innocence,” showcases his trio’s blend of light yet intense sounds, drawing inspiration from William Blake’s poetry. The music ranges from bright and joyous pieces to reflective and darker tones, exploring themes of innocence and complexity. The album’s concise length highlights its emotional depth and dynamism.
Alyn Cosker’s album “Onta” features a diverse ensemble blending jazz with Scottish cultural elements. Highlights include Karen Matheson’s ethereal vocals and dynamic tracks like “Lullapalew” and “Cassillis,” showcasing intricate rhythms and creative arrangements. Recorded internationally, the album reflects Cosker’s innovative drumming and musical fusion, offering a captivating experience.
James Davis’ Beveled, with talented musicians from the Chicago Modern Jazz scene, presents their album “Arc and Edge,” showcasing unique horn arrangements alongside a bass and drum rhythm section. The compositions evoke warmth and creativity, featuring intricate solos and rich orchestrations, with each track offering a delightful musical experience.
“Live From Death Row” features Keith LaMar, an inmate facing execution, performing spoken word with pianist Albert Marquès and a jazz ensemble. This historic release, recorded in Brooklyn, showcases LaMar’s reflections on freedom and justice through music’s healing power. The project advocates for the voices of those impacted by state-sponsored violence.
The Spike Wilner Trio’s album “The Children & the Warlock” is a tribute to Wilner’s mentor, Harry Whitaker, featuring special guest George Garzone on saxophone. The album blends bebop and straight-ahead jazz with soulful improvisations, showcasing the trio’s musical skills and emotional depth. Each track captivates, particularly the title piece and “Moment to Moment.”
The “Mingus in Argentina” double disc captures the electrifying performances of Charles Mingus and his quintet in Buenos Aires during June 1977. The album showcases their musical camaraderie, improvisational skills, and unique energy, with highlights including solos from Ricky Ford and iconic pieces like “Goodbye Pork Pie Hat.” A must-have for jazz enthusiasts.
Paquito D’Rivera’s “La Fleur de Cayenne” features the Madrid-New York Connection Band, a group of Cuban and Colombian musicians. This album showcases an array of original compositions and Latin styles, blending Cuban son, Argentinian tango, and Venezuelan rhythms. D’Rivera’s clarinet and ensemble deliver vibrant, lyrical performances, marking their first recording after two decades together.
Masha Campagne’s fourth album, “Alegre Menina,” reflects her artistic journey and roots, influenced by her grandfather’s jazz legacy. After relocating from Russia to San Francisco, she found success in jazz festivals and collaborations. This album features original compositions and Brazilian classics, showcasing her authentic vocal style and rich musical arrangements.
Marty Ehrlich’s Trio Exaltation returns with “Images of Time,” featuring bassist John Hébert and drummer Nasheet Waits. The album showcases Ehrlich’s artistry with seven original compositions and two by Andrew Hill, reflecting Hill’s influence. The trio’s interplay reveals their deep connection, blending composition and improvisation to honor Hill’s legacy.
David Riddel’s “Dr. Purgatory: The Consumption” is a multidisciplinary album blending modern jazz with a tragic folktale theme. Featuring a skilled ensemble and accompanied by a 46-page illustrated book, Riddel’s compositions draw inspiration from literature and mythology, resulting in technically proficient and emotionally engaging music that invites imaginative exploration.
Marina Pacowski’s “New Jazz Standards Volume 7” celebrates the intricate compositions of Carl Saunders, showcasing her vocal and piano talent alongside renowned musicians. Tracks range from joyful arrangements to heartfelt tributes, with standout moments of improvisation and scat singing. Pacowski’s connection to Saunders’ music unites artistic excellence and emotional depth.
Shuffle Demons, a celebrated Toronto jazz ensemble, marks 40 years in music with their eleventh album on ALMA Records. The group blends contemporary sounds with classic jazz influences, showcasing dynamic horn arrangements and creative compositions. Their music spans various genres, driven by themes of change and identity, highlighting their cultural significance in jazz.
SEXTET, featuring accomplished musicians like Charlie Burnham and Tony Jones, blends spiritual themes with street-level accessibility, evident in tracks like “I Shall Not Want” and “The Beginning of the Universe.” Their album “Pitch, Rhythm and Consciousness” showcases original compositions and improvisations, striving to elevate consciousness through relatable lyrics and dynamic instrumentation.
Triology’s album “The Slow Road” features a collaboration of award-winning Canadian jazz musicians, including Scott Hamilton on tenor saxophone. Highlights include Jodi Proznick’s waltz “Luna” and a unique, sultry interpretation of Jobim’s “Luiza.” The group’s mastery and melodic clarity make for an enchanting listening experience, showcasing their talents in jazz.
Kristen R. Bromley’s fifth album, “Wes 101,” showcases her talent as a guitarist and bandleader. Featuring her quartet, the album pays tribute to Wes Montgomery while infusing blues influences. With a background in music education, Bromley combines familiar melodies with original compositions, resulting in an uplifting musical experience.
Catalyst, featuring the Dave Sharp Worlds Quartet and guitarist Elden Kelly, explores the music of composer Gregg Hill, blending jazz with global influences. Artists from diverse backgrounds create a rich soundscape, incorporating elements from various traditions. The album showcases innovative arrangements, captivating improvisations, and highlights Hill’s broad musical reach, affirming its brilliance.
“Oblique Rhyme” is a jazz quartet album featuring Joe Santa Maria, David Tranchina, Gary Fukushima, and Colin Woodford. Although it showcases their technical prowess, the album emphasizes depth and personal expression. Each artist contributes unique compositions, exploring a range of emotional and musical landscapes, ultimately achieving a cohesive and inspired sound.
The WDR Big Band’s album explores a fusion of Bluegrass and Jazz, highlighted by Mike Marshall’s mandolin and Darol Anger’s violin. Traditional tunes and original compositions feature strong saxophone solos by Bob Mintzer. The collaborative effort showcases the talents of renowned musicians, producing a unique and vibrant Americana sound.
Saxophonist Jordan VanHemert’s fifth album, “Survival of the Fittest,” features a mix of covers and originals that emphasize resilience against prejudice. Collaborating with notable musicians, VanHemert confronts personal and societal struggles, while embracing themes of hope and defiance through vibrant post-bop compositions. The album balances grief with cathartic expression.
Champian Fulton and Klas Lindquist’s album “At Home,” recorded in an intimate setting, features ten classic songs from the Great American Songbook plus a contemporary piece and an original collaboration. Their musical synergy captivates listeners through expressive vocals, improvisational clarinet and saxophone solos, showcasing their mastery and dynamic artistry throughout the performance.
The Winnipeg Jazz Orchestra’s eighth album, “East Meets West: Connections,” showcases new works by Canadian composers Fred Stride and Jean-Nicolas Trottier, emphasizing jazz connections across the country. The album features vibrant solos from talented musicians and highlights the orchestra’s contributions to Manitoba’s cultural scene since 1997, including educational outreach initiatives.
Ellie Martin’s album “Morning Glories” features thirteen original tracks blending jazz and pop influences, reflecting her journey as a mother and cancer survivor. With compositions celebrating life and nature, her vibrant songs, like “Love and Light” and “Spring’s Around the Corner,” highlight her education and artistic evolution.
Becca Wilkins’ album “Reverie” showcases her emotive vocals set against a backdrop of classic French chansons, featuring compositions by legends like Edith Piaf and Charles Aznavour. The music transcends language barriers, connecting deeply with audiences. Wilkins, influenced by her time in Normandy, breathes new life into this musical tradition.
Tim Jago’s album “Time Shift” showcases a fusion of jazz and rock, featuring an all-star ensemble. Renowned musicians like saxophonist Mark Small and pianist Martin Bejerano enhance Jago’s innovative compositions. The album explores diverse tempos and rhythmic shifts, culminating in engaging arrangements that reflect life’s changes through music, making it a compelling jazz experience.
Kandace Springs’ second album, a tribute to Billie Holiday’s “Lady in Satin,” features her unique interpretations of the original tracks, supported by the lush Orquestra Classica de Espinho. While it showcases Springs’ beautiful voice, it lacks the emotional depth associated with Holiday’s recordings. The project reflects Springs’ aspirations of honoring Holiday and recording with an orchestra.
Joanie Pallatto and Bradley Parker-Sparrow, a married couple and co-owners of Southport Records, present their duo album featuring original compositions primarily by Parker-Sparrow. With Chicago as their backdrop, they celebrate over 156 recordings in jazz and contemporary classical music, showcasing their artistic journey through thought-provoking lyrics and melodies.
Esthesis Quartet’s third album, “Sound and Fury,” serves as a tribute to the late Ron Miles, featuring guest guitarist Bill Frisell. The album reflects on themes of grief, leading from denial to acceptance through a series of compositions. It showcases emotional improvisations intertwined with collaborative expressions from the ensemble.
Gillian Margot and Geoffrey Keezer create an outstanding duo in their latest album, showcasing their mastery in interpreting classic and contemporary songs. Margot’s emotive vocals paired with Keezer’s exceptional piano skills result in a captivating performance. The album radiates spontaneity and creativity, making each track a delightful listening experience.
Billy Mohler’s new quartet, The Eternal, features established musicians Jeff Parker and Damion Reid alongside rising star Devin Daniels. The album explores deep emotional themes and diverse musical styles, showcasing Mohler’s growth as a composer and bandleader. Each track highlights the group’s synergy while reflecting personal connections and relationships.
Kris Adams and Peter Perfido present “Away,” featuring compositions by guitarist Mike O’Neil. The album showcases Adams’ vocal prowess on complex melodies, supported by Bob Degen’s expressive piano and Andre Buser’s bass. Their collaboration reflects a deeply personal tribute to O’Neil’s musical legacy, blending jazz with inventive improvisation.
“Rose Room” celebrates its 15th anniversary with a new album showcasing their signature Gypsy Jazz style. Led by violinist Seonaid Aitken, the ensemble features award-winning musicians performing classic jazz standards and original arrangements that blend Scottish tradition with 1930s influences. Notable tracks include “It’s Been A Long, Long Time” and “Lady Be Good.”
Gabriel Mark Hasselbach’s latest album, “Count Your Lucky Stars,” showcases his talents as a trumpet player and composer. With an energetic blend of jazz, including tracks like “Sunseeker,” “Positive Space,” and “We Are,” the album features notable collaborators and melodic arrangements that inspire movement and emotion, making it a compelling listen.
Nick Adema’s album “Urban Chaos” reflects his emotional journey following his mother’s death in 2022 and his move to Amsterdam. Featuring a core quartet and special guests, the album blends jazz with electronic elements, showcasing Adema’s skills in composition and trombone. Highlights include collaborative improvisations and heartfelt melodies.
Eric Scott Reed’s album “Out Late” features a quintet of seasoned jazz musicians, capturing the vibrant essence of New York City’s nightlife. Composed entirely by Reed, each track showcases intricate arrangements that encourage improvisation. Recorded in an old-school style, the musicians emphasize collaboration and raw energy, resulting in a captivating jazz experience.
Susan Pereira’s album “Tudo Azul,” performed with her band Sabor Brazil, celebrates Brazilian music through infectious rhythms and melodies. Composed and arranged by Pereira, it features talented musicians like Claudio Roditi and Romero Lubambo. With vibrant tracks like “O Morro Nao Tem Vez” and “Baiao da Chuva,” the album radiates joy and cultural richness.
Kurt Rosenwinkel and Jean-Paul Brodbeck’s album “The Brahms Project” features innovative jazz arrangements of Johannes Brahms’ compositions. The quartet’s blend of guitar, piano, bass, and drums reimagines classic pieces, showcasing a fusion of jazz and classical music. While the album excels in creativity, it lacks prominent swing elements typical in jazz.
Frank Kimbrough’s album, The Call, is his second posthumous solo piano recording, featuring a mix of jazz standards by Ellington, Gillespie, and Gershwin, alongside original compositions. Recorded in 2010, it showcases his melodic variation, harmonics, and improvisational skills, highlighting his unique style as a solo artist in the jazz genre.
Sacha Boutros’ “The Love Trilogy” features her emotional vocals accompanied by talented musicians. The release includes the French classic “J’attendrai,” the American standard “What’ll I Do?,” and “La Vie En Rose.” As a Grammy-nominated artist, Boutros, a global peace ambassador, seeks to unite people through her jazz across multiple languages.
Kenny Dorham’s live album “Blue Bossa in the Bronx,” recorded in 1967, features an exceptional lineup, including Sonny Red, Cedar Walton, and Paul Chambers. The performance captures their artistry, though drummer Denis Charles’s style contrasts with the others. Overall, the release is a valuable jazz historical piece for collectors and enthusiasts.
Ingrid Laubrock’s “Purposing the Air” is a two-disc experimental album where the composer blends poetry by Erica Hunt with diverse vocalists and instrumentalists. Each track features short, evocative compositions, challenging artistic boundaries. Collaborators include Fay Victor, Rachel Calloway, and Duo Cortona, highlighting Laubrock’s vision and the emotive power of spoken word.
Spike Wilner Trio’s album “The Children & The Warlock,” featuring George Garzone, pays tribute to late mentor Harry Whitaker and drummer Anthony Pinciotti. The trio, alongside Garzone, explores improvisational jazz, blending personal and adventurous styles. Notable tracks include “Hey, Open Up!” and “Moment to Moment,” highlighting their musical chemistry and dedication to spontaneity.
Mehmet Ali Sanlıkol’s album “7 Shades of Melancholia” showcases his unique blend of jazz, classical, and Turkish traditional music through a small ensemble. Comprising original compositions and adaptations, the album explores themes of melancholia rooted in Turkish culture. Sanlıkol’s innovations include his digital microtonal piano, enhancing the emotional depth of the work.
Shiri Zorn and George Muscatello’s album “Looking for the Light” showcases their innovative jazz interpretations. Zorn’s captivating vocals and Muscatello’s masterful guitar create a unique sound, enhanced by percussionist Mauricio Zottarelli. The trio blends diverse musical influences, delivering fresh arrangements and original compositions, making this a notable listening experience.
The album “Samba of Sorts” by the Unity Quartet features Brazilian musicians Helio Alves, Guilherme Monteiro, Gili Lopes, and Alex Kautz. Blending original compositions and covers, the album showcases various musical styles with energetic and relaxing arrangements. Their goal is to reflect cultural roots through music, creating a vibrant listening experience.
Gilad Hekselman’s album “Downhill From Here” features a skilled trio with bassist Larry Grenadier and drummer Marcus Gilmore, showcasing Hekselman’s songwriting and guitar work. The compositions blend jazz with ‘70s influences, offering memorable melodies like the title track and a unique take on ‘Alfie,’ illustrating Hekselman’s accessible style.
Jed Levy’s album “Faces and Places” showcases his versatility as a tenor saxophonist after decades in music. Featuring a powerhouse quartet, the album includes twelve tracks that blend jazz with Afro-Cuban rhythms. Highlights include the dynamic “Email,” the reflective “Coming to Terms,” and the innovative “Leading Tone,” culminating in a rich musical experience.
Lorraine Feather’s album “The Green World” showcases her unique storytelling through lyrics and diverse musical styles, blending rock and jazz. With engaging compositions by notable artists, Feather presents an emotional, theatrical experience. Though not strictly a jazz singer, her voice and lyrics create captivating narratives, reminiscent of Broadway performances.
The Chicago Jazz Orchestra’s album “More Amor” pays tribute to jazz legend Wes Montgomery featuring guitarist Bobby Broom. The album showcases orchestral arrangements that capture Montgomery’s influence, blending jazz with pop and R&B. With ten tracks, it reflects the era when big bands innovated jazz standards, highlighting Broom’s talent and emotional depth.
Diego Rivera releases his ninth album, “West Circle,” showcasing his saxophone talents alongside a supportive rhythm section. This deeply emotive work addresses tragedy, notably a shooting at Michigan State University. With a mix of original compositions and covers, Rivera explores diverse styles, proving his artistry and emotional depth within the jazz scene.
Deb Bowman, an independent artist, showcases her pure soprano voice across diverse genres in her album “Reflection.” Featuring arrangements by pianist Dean Fransen, she performs classics by renowned composers, including “Moon River” and “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” highlighting her storytelling talent and theatrical background. Bowman’s interpretations leave a lasting impact.