CD Reviews on projects by Jazz artists
April Varner’s “Winter Songs Vol. 2,” produced by Ulysses Owens Jr., features a talented ensemble and revisits beloved holiday tunes. Showcasing Varner’s crystal-clear vocals and inventive arrangements, the album includes joyful tracks like “Holly Jolly Christmas” and “Run Run Rudolph.” This follow-up solidifies her status as a promising jazz vocalist.
Kenny Barron, an 14-time GRAMMY nominee, releases his first vocal album, “Songbook,” featuring 13 original compositions with lyrics by Janice Jarrett. The album showcases collaborations with notable contemporary jazz vocalists such as Cécile McLorin Salvant and Kurt Elling, demonstrating Barron’s artistic evolution in his later career, signaling potential accolades in the Jazz Vocal category.
Bassist-composer Jakob Dreyer releases his third album, “Roots and Things,” featuring a new quartet that includes vibraphonist Sasha Berliner. Comprising 16 tracks, the album showcases a blend of jazzy introspection and unexpected swings, highlighting inventive compositions and a unique sound. Each musician contributes distinct perspectives, creating a refreshing auditory experience.
Maria Corsaro’s album “Love Makes The Changes” showcases her unique fusion of jazz and cabaret. Raised in classical music, Corsaro’s performances feature intricate melodies and emotional storytelling. Collaborating with talented musicians, she delivers captivating renditions of classics, highlighting her vocal range and improvisational skills, appealing to both cabaret and jazz enthusiasts alike.
Kelsey Mines, an innovative jazz composer and bassist, showcases her talents in the album “Everything Sacred, Nothing Serious.” Featuring a skilled ensemble, including Elsa Nilsson and John Hansen, the music combines scat vocals, intricate harmonies, and improvisation. Mines’ unique style and creativity indicate a promising future in jazz.
Billy Hart’s album “Multidirectional” features the Billy Hart Quartet, showcasing his original composition “Song for Balkis,” among other tracks. Hart’s drumming incorporates influences from John Coltrane and avant-garde jazz. With over two decades as a group, their seamless connection enhances the live performance experience, reflecting Hart’s continued artistic growth at age 85.
The Cincinnati Contemporary Jazz Orchestra, founded in 2013, presents “The Nutcracker Remix,” a contemporary jazz reinterpretation of Tchaikovsky’s classic. Under Rob Parton’s direction, the ensemble infuses samba and hip-hop elements. Featuring tracks like “Pistachio March” and vocalist Mandy Gaines on holiday songs, this album offers a vibrant holiday listening experience.
Sean Mason’s album, A Breath of Fresh Air, showcases his deep knowledge of early jazz while exploring diverse forms. Collaborating with talented musicians, Mason emphasizes self-expression and contemporary culture. The music blends traditional sounds with modern influences, celebrating themes of resilience, connection, and self-discovery throughout various tracks, culminating in a cohesive listening experience.
Domo Branch’s album “Hand of Gifts” reflects his gratitude for music amid life’s challenges. Featuring skilled musicians, the album includes dynamic tracks like “Harlem Nights” and heartfelt pieces like “A Letter to Peanut.” Branch, an emerging voice in contemporary jazz, blends creativity with emotional depth throughout the recording.
Stephane Wrembel’s album “Hors Série” with Django New Orleans II celebrates the intersection of French and New Orleans music. Featuring diverse arrangements, it includes reimagined classics like “Libertango” and “La Vie En Rose,” showcasing Wrembel’s talent as a guitarist and vocalist. The ensemble delivers a refreshing, joyful tribute to Django Reinhardt’s legacy.
The Raphael Pannier Quartet collaborates with Khadim Niang’s Sabar Group, merging jazz with Senegalese sabar drumming for a groundbreaking live album from the Saint Louis International Jazz Festival. This unique fusion honors master drummer Doudou N’Diaye Rose and features reimagined jazz classics, showcasing cultural intersections in music and community spirit.
Violinist Tomoko Omura’s album “Run Run Run” reflects on the devastating impact of war, particularly the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings. Through original compositions, she evokes the chaos experienced by survivors, aiming to raise awareness about nuclear threats. Omura believes music can foster empathy and understanding, driving real change in society.
The Afro-Caribbean Jazz Collective’s album “Cortadito,” led by guitarist José Guzman, blends Puerto Rican musical influences with contemporary jazz. Featuring energetic tracks like “Orchard Downs” and “Holande Pa Uste,” it highlights vibrant horn solos and captivating percussion. The collection showcases original compositions alongside the band’s dynamic arrangements, celebrating cultural richness.
Mike Freeman’s album “Circles in a Yellow Room” showcases his vibraphone and original compositions inspired by the pandemic. Infused with Afro-Cuban grooves, Latin jazz, and catchy melodies, the album features a talented ensemble, including congas and horns. It’s a vibrant, dance-inducing collection perfect for lively listening during challenging times.
Guitarist John Scofield and bassist Dave Holland collaborate on their debut duo album, “Memories of Home,” featuring original compositions that reflect their years of musical partnership. The album combines influences from jazz legends and showcases their individual styles, offering listeners an hour of soul-soothing music that invites engagement and appreciation.
Noam Lemish’s album “There’s Beauty Enough in Being Here” features a blend of jazz and classical influences, showcasing his compositions and performances with notable musicians. The album reflects his transcultural identity and appreciation for everyday beauty, inspired by Fernando Pessoa’s poetry. Lemish, also a music educator, leads various ensembles in Toronto.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Jason Kao Hwang’s album “Myths of Origin” combines jazz, funk, and global influences as a musical protest against hate crimes targeting Asian Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic. With a unique blend of modern jazz and orchestral chaos, it reflects both beauty and frustration, fostering connection and humanity through innovative soundscapes.
“Liberty Now!” by Phil Haynes and Free Country represents a poignant return after ten years, spurred by personal and political challenges such as the 2024 election and the death of collaborator Herb Robertson. Combining original compositions with reimagined classics, the album reflects a rich American history through jazz-infused Americana and Bluegrass.
Todd Herbert’s post-bop album showcases five original compositions among its ten tracks. The title piece, “Captain Hubs,” honors the late Freddie Hubbard. Herbert, an accomplished tenor saxophonist, is joined by talented musicians, including NEA Jazz Master Louis Hayes. This energetic quartet delivers captivating melodies and excellent improvisation throughout the recording.
Yuko Mabuchi’s album “Quantum” showcases her exceptional talent as a pianist, composer, and arranger, blending classical and jazz influences. Highlights include her soulful rendition of “Batucada” and her original “Ikumi’s Lullaby,” reflecting her cultural heritage. The album reveals her creative brilliance, transforming familiar pieces like “Boy From Ipanema” into fresh interpretations.
The “Motivation” ensemble, led by Michael Simard, celebrates jazz funk classics with innovative arrangements. Featuring talented Canadian musicians, they reimagine songs by notable artists like George Duke and Earth Wind and Fire. The album blends jazz, funk, and soul, showcasing impressive solos and a rich sound palette with strings and horns.
Margherita Fava, an Italian pianist and composer, leads an energetic trio featuring Jonathan Barber on drums and Brandon Rose on bass. Her album “Murrina” showcases original compositions alongside reimagined classics, including Brahms and Ellington. Fava’s unique style and innovative arrangements reflect her musical journey and growing talent. Expect more from her.
Enrique Haneine’s album “Conceivable Directions” features an experimental jazz quintet blending diverse cultural influences, primarily Latin and Lebanese, into his compositions. Haneine’s melodic drumming intertwines with horns, creating unique soundscapes. Tracks like “Unique Array of Swirls” and “Perpetual Insights” showcase intricate arrangements and musical freedom, highlighting his innovative approach.
Jason Forsythe’s debut album, “It’s About Time,” showcases his original compositions that blend Latin jazz, swing, and straight-ahead styles. Featuring notable musicians, the album includes energetic tunes like “Fourth Rites” and heartfelt ballads such as “Sentimental.” Forsythe’s music connects deeply with dance and joy, culminating in collaborative tracks with guest artists.
Jason Charos, a 25-year-old trumpeter and composer, showcases his talent in his debut album “Opening Statement” with his band and special guests. The album blends various jazz styles, featuring compelling solos and compositions that highlight Charos’ artistry and growth. It reflects the vibrant pulse of contemporary jazz and celebrates Charos’ potential.