CD Reviews Jazz

Anthony D’Alessandro’s sophomore album “City Lights” features seven original compositions and reimagined works by James P. Johnson. Collaborating with top Canadian musicians, D’Alessandro’s pieces explore various styles, including swing and Latin influences. Highlights include “Four Minute Mile,” “Oversight,” and a vibrant tribute to Johnson’s classics, showcasing his piano prowess.

The Flying Horse Big Band’s ninth album features composer Jeff Rupert, who leads the ensemble with George Garzone as a notable soloist. The album showcases energetic tracks like “Chasin’ Tail” and a beautiful ballad rendition of “Reflections.” Garzone’s contributions elevate the band’s performance, demonstrating remarkable talent throughout the record.

Harrison Argatoff’s debut album, “Stars, Engines,” features an all-star quartet celebrating nature and jazz. Inspired by childhood memories of stargazing, the album blends improvisational jazz with chamber music influences, showcasing Argatoff’s compositions. Each piece, like “Wishlow” and “Analemma,” highlights individual artistry, creating a meditative musical experience.

Rich Brown’s album “Nyaeba” showcases his innovative solo bass project, employing various electric bass types without looping, creating a warm and organic sound. Each track explores themes of storytelling and personal expression, with rich tonal diversity. Influenced by South African and Brazilian music, Brown conveys deep emotions through his compositions, establishing a unique musical voice.

The live album “Vibrations in the Village: Live at the Village Gate” features Rahsaan Roland Kirk, a blind multi-instrumentalist, recorded in 1963. Despite a film project being abandoned, the taped performances showcase his remarkable talent and interaction with bandmates. Kirk’s innovative style and spirit shine through in this historic jazz release.

Ellen Rowe’s album “Vinton’s Cove,” featuring her quartet with guest vocalist Sunny Wilkinson, is inspired by nature and personal reflection. It showcases five original compositions and inventive renditions of jazz standards, displaying Rowe’s emotional depth and musical versatility. The album promises to enrich any jazz collection with its melodic allure.

Josie Falbo, a seasoned Chicago vocalist, releases her third album, “Kickin’ It,” showcasing her impressive jazz skills over nearly fifty years. Known for her heartfelt performances, she sings in Italian and English, blending classical and pop influences. The album features excellent arrangements and musicians, highlighting her emotional depth and remarkable scat singing.

LOREN SCHOENBERG AND HIS JAZZ ORCHESTRA featuring KATE KORUM & WARREN WOLF SO MANY MEMORIES Turtle Bay Records This album time-travels us back to the 1930s with a 16-track collection of previously unheard arrangements by Eddie Sauter.  He was the man who created respected and popular arrangements for vibraphonist Red Norvo and his wife, singer […]

Raphaël Pannier Quartet’s live performance in Saint Louis, Senegal, merges American jazz with Senegalese Sabar music, drawing inspiration from Doudou N’Diaye Rose. Collaborating with master drummer Khadim Niang, they explore unique rhythms through pieces like “Lonely Woman” and “Take Five.” This innovative blend enriches cultural connections and showcases vibrant musical energy.

“Swinging in the Holidays” is a jazzy musical anthology featuring innovative covers of familiar holiday songs, including “Baby, It’s Cold Outside” and “Winter Wonderland.” Notable artists like Vanessa Perea, Wyatt Michael, and Champian Fulton bring diverse arrangements to life. The collection highlights sixteen festive tracks, perfect for holiday gatherings.

Ledisi’s latest album, “For Dinah,” pays tribute to jazz legend Dinah Washington, showcasing her golden voice across genres. Featuring standout performances by Christian McBride and Gregory Porter, the album includes memorable renditions of classic tracks like “What A Difference a Day Makes.” Ledisi’s emotional depth makes this collection a remarkable homage.

Yuhan Su’s “Over the Moons” is her fifth album, featuring original compositions performed by an eight-piece ensemble that blends acoustic jazz and electronics. The album explores dual consciousness, reflecting Su’s Taiwanese and English identities. With innovative use of vibraphone effects, it showcases a balance of chaos and beauty, inviting listeners into her unique sound world.

Chris Rottmayer’s album “Playing Favorites,” featuring Kelsey Wallner, showcases their jazz talents with a blend of familiar standards and original compositions. Rottmayer’s piano artistry complements Wallner’s expressive vocals, while the trio displays musical synergy. Highlights include engaging arrangements of “One Note Samba” and emotional performances, creating an enjoyable intimate jazz experience.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.