CD Reviews on projects by Jazz artists
Bianca Rossini is a Brazilian pop singer and songwriter based in Beverly Hills, known for her engaging lyrics and relatable themes. Her first English-language album features ten well-crafted songs, highlighting her strong compositional skills. The album, co-produced by Peter Roberts, is set for worldwide release on March 5, 2025.
Michelle Nicolle and Larry Koonse team up for “The Silent Wish,” Nicolle’s first American album. The duo showcases their chemistry through classic jazz standards and lesser-known songs, demonstrating impressive vocal and guitar interplay. Nicolle’s dynamic range and improvisational skills, paired with Koonse’s sensitive accompaniment, create a refreshingly modern jazz experience.
Caili O’Doherty’s album “Bluer Than Blue – Celebrating Lil Hardin Armstrong” features arrangements of Armstrong’s tunes, showcasing her significant yet overlooked influence on jazz. Collaborating with talented musicians, O’Doherty honors Hardin’s legacy through engaging performances of both popular and lesser-known pieces, blending rich historical context with contemporary interpretations.
Isabelle Olivier’s album “Impressions” pays homage to impressionism, merging elegance and minimalism within her harp compositions. Featuring her sons and a rich string ensemble, the project celebrates artists like Van Gogh and Cezanne, exploring emotions and inspirations from art. Olivier strives to evoke profound feelings through her music.
Bob Bralove and Patti Weiss’s album, Acoustic Conversations, features mostly composed improvisational jazz recorded live without overdubs. Their bond, formed through past collaborations and pandemic reconnecting, shines in pieces that blend classical and jazz elements. The album showcases their musical dialogue, resulting in expressive tracks with a cinematic quality.
Sylvie Courvoisier and Mary Halvorson, two acclaimed musicians, collaborate on “Bone Bells,” blending contemporary chamber music and avant-garde jazz. Each composes alternating tracks, creating an evocative soundscape. Highlights include the haunting title track and the unpredictable “Esmeralda.” Their synergy showcases a dynamic fusion of unique talents, akin to a perfect culinary pairing.
“Every Journey” is Claire Cope’s second album featuring her Ensemble C, premiering on March 8, 2025, to honor International Women’s Day. The album celebrates courageous women, celebrating their daring journeys through compositions inspired by figures like Bessie Coleman. With lush arrangements and Brigitte Beraha’s ethereal vocals, Cope blends contemporary classical and jazz.
The album “Jazz We Trust” celebrates Posi-Tone Records’ 30th anniversary, featuring a talented septet called the Swingtet. The record showcases compositions primarily by the ensemble members, highlighting energetic pieces, intricate rhythms, and reflective ballads. The album culminates in a vibrant display of musicianship, paying tribute to the label’s legacy.
Simón Willson, a Chilean-born bassist based in NYC, showcases a dynamic live performance at Brooklyn’s Ornithology Jazz Club with his quartet. Throughout the album “Bet,” the group explores risk and improvisation, combining energetic solos and cohesive rhythms. The recording captures the intensity and excitement of live jazz, leaving the audience captivated.
Sasha Berliner’s album “Fantôme” showcases her remarkable skills as a vibraphonist and composer. With dynamic performances and original compositions, she blends jazz genres, encouraging listeners to embrace her free-spirited sound. Highlights include the energetic “U.M.M.G.” and the tender “Worst Person in the World,” reflecting her musical evolution and unique style.
The Bigger Badder Bones, featuring André Hayward, showcases an exciting blend of blues and Latin-inspired tunes in their latest album “Sliders.” With talented contributors on trombone, piano, bass, and drums, each composition reflects the life experiences of composer Brett Stamps. The album highlights impressive arrangements and exceptional performances throughout.
The Yellowjackets’ 27th album, “Fasten Up,” showcases the band’s genre-defying style through a mix of compositions from its current quartet. With members contributing their unique sounds, the album blends soul-jazz, traditional fusion, and electronic elements, resulting in varied tracks that highlight their evolution over four decades.
Steve Allee’s “Naptown Sound” showcases the vibrant jazz legacy of Indianapolis, featuring compositions predominantly by Allee himself. The album boasts dynamic arrangements with guest conductor John Clayton and talented musicians. Notable tracks include “Spang a Lang” and “Naptown Nights,” highlighting Allee’s innovative style and rhythmic energy, celebrating the city’s cultural evolution.
Pianist Ross Lossing’s album “Moon Inhabitants” reflects his innovative approach to the conventional piano trio format. Blending originals with compositions by Ornette Coleman and Tchaikovsky, the trio creates a weightless musical experience. The album showcases their unique improvisational style, highlighting the interplay between rhythm and melody while embracing free expression.
“Positive Energy” by the Greg Abate Quartet features seasoned jazz musicians delivering an uplifting album filled with original compositions. Greg Abate’s alto sax, John Rangel’s piano, Terry Burns’ bass, and David Post’s drums create an engaging sound. The music captures the vibrant New Mexico jazz scene while channeling resilience during the pandemic.
Rodney Whitaker collaborates with composer Gregg Hill in “Mosaic: the Music of Gregg Hill,” showcasing a talented jazz quintet featuring notable musicians. This album highlights Hill’s unique compositions, blending complex melodies with diverse influences. Each track offers intricate arrangements and captivating performances, establishing the project as exceptional contemporary jazz.
Peter White’s 17th album, “Light of Day,” released on February 14, 2025, celebrates his 50th anniversary as a musician. Featuring original songs reflecting love and optimism, White’s diverse instrumentation showcases his signature fingerstyle guitar. The album offers introspective tracks alongside joyful melodies, creating a soothing Smooth Jazz experience.
Noah Preminger’s album “Ballads” showcases his talent as a tenor saxophonist, blending original compositions with classic covers. Featuring a quartet, he emphasizes deep emotion through the ballad format, moving away from his usual intense style. The album includes pieces like “Unfair World” and a notable rendition of “Someone to Watch Over Me.”
François Couturier and Dominique Pifarély’s album “Preludes and Songs” blends classical and avant-garde jazz, creating a serene musical experience. Their long-standing partnership enriches the performance with emotional depth and improvisational freedom. The album highlights their mastery through pieces like “A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square,” showcasing the essence of jazz as America’s classical music.
Frank Carlberg’s “Dream Machine” features a unique jazz quintet with two keyboards, blending written and improvised pieces inspired by dreams and memories. With varied compositions, the album explores a spectrum of emotions and soundscapes, from nostalgic to avant-garde, incorporating diverse musical influences and highlighting the interplay between structure and improvisation.
Kinan Azmeh, a Syrian composer and clarinetist based in Brooklyn, presents his quartet CityBand in a profound exploration of Arab jazz. His compositions, influenced by the Syrian uprising, convey emotional connections to his homeland. The album reflects themes of hope, freedom, and cultural roots, combining artistry to address global atrocities.
Mosaic: the Music of Gregg Hill features acclaimed bassist Rodney Whitaker’s arrangements of ten compositions by Gregg Hill, showcasing a talented ensemble. With notable performances from trumpeter Terell Stafford and saxophonist Tim Warfield, the album blends various jazz influences, emphasizing intricate melodies and improvisation. The result is high-caliber, straight-ahead jazz.
Ariane Racicot’s album “Dancing With Fire” showcases her award-winning talent as a jazz pianist and composer. Blending classical, jazz, Latin, and metal influences, her compositions evoke a range of emotions. The album features strong collaborations with bassist Antoine Rochefort and drummer Guillaume Picard, creating a dramatic and textured sound experience.
The Perceptions Trio, debuting with “The Wicked Crew,” blends jazz and pop influences through compositions by saxophonist Charley Rose, guitarist Silvan Joray, and drummer Paulo Almeida. Their ten-track album features a mix of meditative and energetic pieces, characterized by ethereal soundscapes and intricate interplay, marking a promising beginning for this Swiss trio.
Deepstaria Enigmatica The Eternal Now Is the Heart of a New Tomorrow ESP-Disc What do you think of when Scott Bomar of the Bo-Keys and Sam Phillips Recording Studio appear on the jacket of an album? Likely it’s the likes of Bomar’s main band or Al Green, William Bell, Cyndi Lauper, or John Nemeth, a […]
Brûlez Les Meubles, a Quebec-based avant-garde music group, debuted in 2016 and features prominent improvisers. Their latest release, “Folio #5,” lacks drums, creating a distinct sound. The collaboration between founders Louis Beaudoin-de la Sablonnière and Eric Normand invites notable musicians, blending spontaneity with melody in unique compositions.
Nanami Haruta, a promising young trombonist and composer, has emerged in the jazz scene, influenced by her mentors at Michigan State University. Her debut album features notable musicians and showcases her talent through original compositions and collaborations. With recognition including the Outstanding Student Award, Haruta continues to grow as an artist.
Coleman Mellett’s posthumous release “Sing You a Brand New Song” showcases his talents as a guitarist and vocalist. Featuring renowned musicians, the album blends jazz with folk and pop influences. Crafted by his wife and friend, it features eleven originals and highlights his songwriting, offering a poignant tribute to Mellett’s legacy.
The Alpine Session features twin brothers Michael and Florian Arbenz collaborating with jazz legend Ron Carter. Recorded in Switzerland, the album showcases their musical journey shaped by diverse influences, from Django Reinhardt to Miles Davis. Their deep familial musical roots and innovative spirit manifest in this enjoyable production, earning repeated listens.
Julia Hülsmann’s latest album, “Under the Surface,” features her quartet along with trumpeter Hildegunn Øiseth, who also plays the goat horn. The music blends contemporary classical and jazz, showcasing compositions that highlight Hülsmann’s European roots. Enjoyable tracks include “They Stumble, They Walk” and “Milkweed Monarch,” emphasizing instrumental talent.
Benjamin Lackner’s “Spindrift” offers a profound exploration of “dream jazz” within the ECM label’s signature restrained sound. Featuring noted artists, the album emphasizes interplay among horns and a subtle rhythm section, creating a meditative atmosphere. Despite its dark themes, Lackner infuses beauty and hope throughout this reflective jazz experience.
Strat Andriotis, a Greek-Canadian guitarist and composer, blends blues and jazz influences, notably from Miles Davis and Jimi Hendrix. His album “Exits” showcases eight original tracks with varying trios, emphasizing his adaptability across genres. The project highlights his compositional talent and technical proficiency on the guitar.
Elaine Dame’s album “Reminiscing” features her distinctive jazz interpretations of 1970s pop tunes, showcasing her vocal talent and energy. Collaborating with musicians like Chris Madsen, she transforms songs like “Tell Me Something Good” and “Use Me” into fresh jazz arrangements infused with Latin rhythms, highlighting the versatility of well-written music.
Steve Smith’s trio, featuring keyboardist Manuel Valera and bassist Janek Gwizdala, explores new jazz renditions of Journey songs and Vital Information tracks in their album “New Perspective.” The ensemble showcases complex arrangements and energetic performances, blending fusion elements and honoring musical influences. Their live shows promise a lively and engaging experience.
Russ Anixter’s Hippie Big Band showcases a unique blend of jazz and rock through powerful arrangements and skilled musicianship. Featuring impactful solos and an energetic rhythm section, the album includes notable tracks like “What is Hip?” and a medley of “Freedom Jazz Dance” with “Free Man in Paris.” The musicians create a robust sound despite the smaller ensemble size.
JON IRABAGON SERVER FARM Irabbagast Records Jon Irabagon, tenor & sopranino saxophones/effects/composer; Miles Okazaki & Wendy Eisenberg, guitars; Matt Mitchell, piano/Fender Rhodes/Prophet-6; Michael Formanek, acoustic bass; Chris Lightcap, electric bass; Dan Weiss, drums; Levy Lorenzo, kulintang/laptop/electronics/vibraphone; Mazz Swift, violin/voice; Peter Evans, trumpet/flugelhorn. Chicago-based saxophonist and composer, Jon Irabagon, has assembled his largest ensemble to date. […]
Arturo O’Farrill’s Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra releases “Mundoagua- Celebrating Carla Bley,” an album honoring his mentor. It includes three movements addressing global crises, climate issues, and the corrupt politics surrounding water. The work reflects O’Farrill’s commitment to social commentary through music, alongside a tribute to Bley’s final composition, “Blue Palestine.”
Omar Thomas presents “Griot Songs,” a project with his Large Ensemble that celebrates storytelling through music. Featuring original compositions and tributes, it showcases his classical training and contemporary jazz influences. Notably recognized with numerous accolades, Thomas’ album is set for release on February 7th, coinciding with Black History Month.
Joe Elefante’s album “Wheel of Dharma” marks his return to the jazz scene after a long hiatus. Following personal tragedy, Elefante, along with talented musicians, showcases his passion through original compositions. The album reflects his journey, creativity, and tribute to his late wife, featuring memorable tracks like “Bad Dancing” and “The One Who Knows.”
The Dan Pitt Quintet’s album “Horizontal Depths” showcases an innovative blend of genres, merging jazz, rock, and folk. Featuring powerful electric guitar and expressive saxophone solos, each composition highlights Pitt’s artistic growth since 2019. The music often balances structured arrangements with improvisational potential, exploring themes of depth and motion.
Joe McPhee revives the essence of free jazz poetry, echoing legends like Ken Nordine. A key figure in NYC’s ’70s scene, McPhee blends spoken word and music, reflecting on myriad experiences, cultures, and societal issues. His recent works include poetry-focused albums and memoirs, demonstrating his enduring artistic exploration and vibrant creativity.
Jason Palmer’s “The Cross Over: Live in Brooklyn” features a stellar band, including Mark Turner and Larry Grenadier, showcasing Palmer’s talents as a composer. The album opens with “Budgets Are Moral Documents” and includes a tribute to Fannie Lou Hamer. Recognized for his unique sound, Palmer inspires and excites listeners.
Jerry Kalaf’s album “Safe Travels” blends jazz and chamber music, featuring compositions by Kalaf accompanied by a string quartet. Each track evokes personal memories, skillfully integrating lush arrangements and complex rhythms. Notable pieces include “263 Beacon” and “Bailing,” showcasing collaboration with musicians like Tom Ranier and Trey Henry, enhancing the album’s melodic richness.
The quartet known as “The Fury,” featuring renowned jazz musicians Mark Turner, Lage Lund, Matt Brewer, and Tyshawn Sorey, showcases their talents in a live performance in Brooklyn. Their music blends intricate compositions and impressive solos, reflecting their passion for jazz. The album highlights their individual artistry and collaborative spirit.
Guitarist and composer Jackson Potter’s sophomore album “Small Things” showcases his original works and jazz standards, highlighting his musical lineage and education. Collaborating with talented musicians, the album balances traditional jazz with adventurous styles. Potter’s standout compositions reflect his skill, making him a notable emerging talent in the jazz scene.
Mark Scott III’s debut album “Soft Light” features eleven self-composed tracks performed by his jazz trio. The music reflects his journey from rock to jazz, showcasing inventive solos and a mix of grooves. Influenced by Coltrane and Metheny, Scott, a Texas native, also teaches at Tarleton State University.
Rick Roe leads a trio of Detroit musicians, including Grammy winner Robert Hurst and drummer Nate Winn, in a tribute to Lansing composer Gregg Hill. Their performances highlight Hill’s well-crafted compositions, blending jazz and gospel influences. Each musician showcases their talent, creating a refreshing sound that resonates with both emotion and creativity.
Satoko Fujii’s “Altitude 1100 Meters” marks her first composition for string ensemble, capturing her experience in Japan’s mountains. The five-part suite blends gorgeous melodies with her trademark intensity, showcasing unique sounds and collaborative improvisation among Japanese musicians. The album reflects Fujii’s innovative approach and profound emotional atmosphere.
Eldad Tarmu’s “Silver on Aluminum” celebrates Horace Silver’s compositions through innovative arrangements for a vibraphone, bass, and drum trio. Featuring talented musicians, the album highlights Tarmu’s vibraphone skills, especially in tracks like “No Smokin’” and “Gregory is Here,” showcasing their energetic performances and musicianship.
Joe Alterman’s album “Brisket for Breakfast” features Houston Person on tenor saxophone, showcasing a blend of bluesy jazz tunes performed live with an Atlanta-based trio. The album includes seven familiar songs, celebrated for Alterman’s dynamic piano and Person’s smooth saxophone. Their collaboration highlights deep musical chemistry and soulful performances.