Every week our staff of CD Reviewers bring you the best in Independent CD releases. Making a Scene is considered the number 1 resource for the independent musician and the fans that love them.
Greta Gaines is an accomplished American singer-songwriter and former snowboard champion. “Bird Before Light” is her latest album, featuring themes of midlife transitions and emotional growth. Notable collaborations include musicians like Tim O’Brien. Greta’s career spans music, sports, and cannabis legalization, showcasing her diverse talents and advocacy efforts.
Rebecca Pidgeon, born in 1965, is a talented singer, songwriter, and actress with dual American-British citizenship. Her latest album, “Unillusion,” produced by Fernando Perdomo, offers a minimalistic blend of voice and acoustic guitar. The collection showcases her storytelling prowess and includes various reflective tracks that highlight her artistic evolution.
Larry “Mud” Morganfield, the son of Muddy Waters, is an American blues singer who began his musical career later in life. His new album “Deep Mud” features original songs and revivals, showcasing his dedication to Chicago blues. Morganfield’s works include tributes to his mother and celebrate authentic blues themes.
Dave Anderson’s album “In Lieu of Flowers” is a tribute to jazz legends and educators who influenced him. Featuring original compositions, the quartet showcases Anderson’s skill on saxophones, particularly in pieces like “One for Wayne” and “Sanctuary.” The music balances tribute and emotion, making it an engaging listen throughout.
Dara Starr Tucker’s album “Time Wouldn’t Want,” features her original compositions and reinterpretations of well-known songs. With a blend of jazz, funk, country, soul, and pop, Tucker’s warm vocals and heartfelt lyrics explore themes of time and presence. Notable tracks include “Shining (It’s my Time)” and “What Was I Made For.”
Piper & The Hard Times’ album “Good Company” showcases their dynamic blend of blues, funk, and rock. With powerful vocals from Al “Piper” Green and a talented band, the album features lively tracks and introspective themes, despite Green’s recent cancer diagnosis. It’s a standout work set to elevate their prominence in the American roots music scene.
Chris Wabich’s album “1978 (STEEP)” showcases his talent as a drummer, composer, and bandleader, featuring sensitive piano from Josh Nelson and strong bass by Dan Lutz. The album leans towards easy listening with thoughtful compositions like “Jiang (Sage Ember)” and “Oolong.” Wabich, a seasoned performer, recently received the COLA grant.
The Shout Section Big Band, led by Brett T. Dean, celebrates its 20-year legacy of swing and jazz, featuring vocalist Tatum Langley. Their new album showcases her impressive vocal range and theatrical flair. Notable tracks include “Deedle’s Blues” and “Ridin’ High.” The band continues captivating audiences across the Midwest.
Stuart Blance is a Scottish singer-songwriter and photographer known for his acoustic music and uplifting lyrics. His new EP, “Fringe Benefits,” features songs like “Shine” and “As Scottish as Haggis,” celebrating themes of life, love, and self-belief. Blance’s work combines folk, Americana, pop, and rock influences, offering optimism and joy.
David Bailis’s album “Running Through My Mind” showcases his modern jazz style, featuring compositions that blend funk, jazz, and imaginative guitar work. With a talented quintet, including Caroline Davis on alto saxophone, Bailis explores his musical roots while reflecting his passion for running, emphasizing discipline and dedication in both music and life.
The album “Shadows of Tomorrow” by Socrates Garcia and his Latin Jazz Orchestra merges Dominican culture with Afro-Caribbean music and contemporary jazz. Each composition reflects Garcia’s experiences, featuring vibrant rhythms and standout performances. The work is rich in tradition, showcasing well-crafted arrangements and danceable tunes that emphasize cultural heritage and personal storytelling.
Irving Flores’ Afro-Cuban Jazz Sextet presents “Armando Mi Conga,” showcasing his musicianship and passion for Latin rhythms. Inspired by his childhood and influences from his father, the album features infectious compositions like “Gary en Nanchital” and beautiful ballads like “Tramonto A Massa Lubrense,” highlighting Flores’ exceptional talent.
Remi Goode, a trained classical guitarist from Nashville, draws inspiration from artists like Suzanne Vega. Her debut album, “Things I’ve Said Before,” showcases a blend of folk and pop, featuring introspective lyrics and diverse instrumentation. The record hints at a promising future for Goode in the music industry.
Annika Chambers and Paul DesLauriers collaborate on their album “Our Time To Ride,” blending blues, soul, and rock. Chambers, influenced by gospel and the blues, has a diverse background, while DesLauriers is an acclaimed guitarist. The album features original songs and covers, showcasing their musical chemistry and soulful storytelling.
Woody Guthrie, born July 14, 1912, in Oklahoma, revolutionized American folk music with over 3,000 songs, including “This Land Is Your Land.” His legacy, maintained by family members, remains influential in music and social justice. Recorded in 1950, his work highlights the enduring spirit of resilience and introspection among marginalized communities.
The Marc Seales project features collaboration with Ernie Watts, showcasing original tunes and jazz standards in a heartfelt manner. Highlights include the emotionally charged “Rue Cler,” and the soulful closing piece, “Home Light.” Seales, now retired from his university career, refocuses on his passion for composing and performing jazz.
The Texas Headhunters, comprising Johnny Moeller, Jesse Dayton, and Ian Moore, released a self-titled debut album filled with energetic songs reflecting their Texas blues roots. Recorded in five days, the album showcases their diverse talents, blending elements of blues, rock, and a lively spirit, providing both depth and entertainment throughout.
Antonio Adolfo’s album “Carnaval – The Songs Were So Beautiful” showcases classic Carnaval songs from Brazil’s “Golden Age” (1920s-1950s). Featuring a talented ensemble, it highlights lively rhythms and emotive melodies. Adolfo shares his deep passion for these compositions, inviting listeners to celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Carnaval through captivating arrangements.
Catina DeLuna and Otmaro Ruiz release “Lado B Brazilian Project 2,” a follow-up to their Grammy-nominated album. This collaboration blends World Music and Jazz, showcasing DeLuna’s vibrant soprano and Ruiz’s unique use of the accordina. The project explores classic Brazilian songs, delivering enchanting arrangements and rich musical narratives.
Pianist Andy Nevala’s album “El Rumbon” features ten Afro-Cuban influenced tracks with a blend of familiar tunes and original arrangements. Highlights include a Latin take on Stevie Wonder’s “Isn’t She Lovely,” and innovative rhythms in classics like “A Night in Tunisia” and John Coltrane’s “Countdown.” Nevala emphasizes tradition and musical education.
“Transverse” features an international quartet led by American trumpeter Chad McCullough and three Macedonian musicians. The album blends jazz with Macedonian folklore, showcasing compositions that explore diverse themes and varying moods. This collaborative effort exemplifies musical camaraderie, emphasizing music’s power to transcend cultural boundaries and foster unity.
Ben Thomas’s “Tango Project” blends traditional Argentine tango with modern elements, showcasing his multi-instrumental skills on bandoneon, vibraphone, and percussion. With original compositions, the album features dynamic arrangements and seamless transitions that engage listeners. Notably, tracks like “The Promise of Morning” and “Other Afternoons” highlight his expressive artistry.
Dara Starr Tucker’s latest album, “Time Wouldn’t Wait,” is her third solo release, blending original compositions with classic songs. Featuring exceptional musicians, Tucker explores themes of time, memories, and living in the present with her emotive vocals. The album showcases an impressive production quality, inviting repeated listens for its introspective nature.
Emma Hedrick’s debut album, “Newcomer,” showcases her unique jazz compositions and storytelling through ten original songs, including a blend of jazz and pop influences. With a contemporary edge and influences from artists like Duke Ellington, she demonstrates vocal prowess and originality, solidifying her presence in the jazz scene.
Mark Winkler HOLD ON Cafe Pacific Vocalist and lyricist Mark Winkler returns with his 22nd album, HOLD ON. This is the tenth album produced by his colleague, Barbara Brighton, and finds Winkler penning the lyrics for seven of these eleven tracks. Winkler has a storied history of attracting great musicians, especially pianists, reaching higher than […]
John DeNicola, an accomplished American songwriter and producer, boasts a notable career, including an Academy Award for “(I’ve Had) The Time of My Life” from “Dirty Dancing.” His recent albums, “The Why Because” and “She Said,” feature original songs and tributes, like “King of His Own World” honoring his late friend Tim Lawless, emphasizing the importance of expressing love and seizing the moment.
The Blood Brothers, comprising Albert Castiglia and Mike Zito, released their album “Help Yourself” featuring nine original tracks and one cover. Both artists have distinct careers marked by Blues Music Awards. Their collaboration blends individual strengths and showcases their journey in blues music, highlighted by energetic performances.
Gerry Casey interviews Australian rock legend Jimmy Barnes, who rose to fame as Cold Chisel’s frontman in the 1970s and has since achieved unprecedented success as a solo artist with 19 number one albums. A bestselling author and ARIA Hall of Fame inductee, he continues to captivate audiences with his powerful performances.
Rico Jones’ album “Blood Lines” explores his multicultural heritage, blending Latino, Indigenous, and African American influences. Each original composition reflects significant personal connections. The extended suite opens with “Invocation,” showcasing improvisation as a form of spiritual communication. The music aims to connect listeners to a deeper narrative of ancestry and creativity.
John Stein releases his twentieth album, “Among Friends,” featuring jazz singer Fay Whittaker and cellist Chris White. Recorded in 1997, the session showcases the trio’s natural camaraderie through classic standards and original compositions. With minimalist production, the album highlights their improvisational skills and deep connection, offering pure jazz enjoyment.
Joe Farnsworth’s album “The Big Room” features an intergenerational sextet, showcasing the talents of skilled musicians such as Emmet Cohen and Sarah Hanahan. The album blends high energy with soulful melodies, allowing for creativity and improvisation. It premieres at SMOKE Jazz Club in NYC, September 3 – 7, 2025.
Sarah Wilson, a Bay Area trumpeter and composer, released her album “Incandescence,” inspired by her 2023 art residency in Austria. Featuring her ensemble Brass Tonic, the album includes melodious compositions like “Architecture in Space.” Wilson aims to celebrate female musicians and interact with visual art, creating original music in real-time.
The concert “First Meeting” features renowned jazz musicians Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Chris Potter, Larry Grenadier, and Eric Harland at Dizzy’s Club. Their performances showcase emotional depth and improvisational mastery. The double disc set includes pieces like “500 Miles High” and “Con Alma,” reflecting their cohesive artistry and commitment to creating memorable music.
The album “As We Are Now” by Jimmy Greene features a blend of smooth jazz compositions with emotional saxophone performances. Collaborating with vocalists and a talented band, Greene’s artistry shines through original pieces like “Praises” and “Anhelando”, as well as a fresh take on “Speak Low”. The project showcases intricate melodies and rhythmic energy.
Larry Keel and Jon Stickley, acclaimed flatpicking guitarists, celebrate acoustic music through dynamic harmonies in their new 5-track EP. Featuring lyrical tunes and cosmic instrumentals, the project showcases their skills and roots in bluegrass traditions. With influences from iconic musicians, their collaborative sound is both innovative and accessible.
Rory Block, a prominent Delta Blues interpreter, began her musical journey at fourteen in Greenwich Village. Influenced by Delta legends, she has recorded 38 albums and received numerous accolades, including her sixth Blues Music Award in 2019. Her latest album celebrates women in blues, featuring well-known guitarists and a mix of covers and original songs.
John Christopher Morgan, born in Ann Arbor, Michigan, showcases his musical journey in his debut album “Right On Time.” With influences from R&B and collaborations with notable artists, the album features nine original songs and four covers, highlighting Morgan’s songwriting and drumming. He currently resides in Ventura, California, with his family.
Neil Barnes, influenced by blues legends, has released “The Ponderosa Sessions,” an EP featuring talented musicians like Mighty Mike Schermer. The project includes engaging tracks such as the Bonanza Theme, “Blues Like A Spider,” “Tin Foil Hat,” and “Coffee And A Kiss,” showcasing Barnes’ creativity and collaborative spirit in music.
“Many Rivers” features Lauren Scales, Mike Flanagan, and Chris Grasso, showcasing a blend of jazz interpretations of R&B and pop classics. Scales’ angelic vocals shine alongside skilled musicianship, with memorable renditions of songs by D’Angelo, Neil Diamond, Thelonious Monk, and others. Their eclectic style touches hearts across genres.
Wayne Alpern’s album “Modern Music” features solo piano compositions by Steven Beck, blending classical and contemporary styles. The twenty pieces exhibit an aesthetic synthesis of tradition and innovation. While influenced by Bach, the music prioritizes composition over improvisation. It appeals to adult-contemporary and Easy Listening audiences, highlighting Alpern’s creativity.
Buddy Guy, the “King of The Blues,” has released his twentieth studio album, “Ain’t Done With The Blues.” At 89, he reflects on his journey in the genre while collaborating with notable musicians. The album showcases eighteen new tracks that celebrate his legacy and dedication to keep the blues alive despite aging.
Joane Hétu’s album “Elle a son mot à dire” showcases her avant-garde musical style with an ensemble featuring vocals, saxophone, trumpet, tuba, accordion, and percussion. The compositions blend ethereal soundscapes and experimental elements, creating an immersive experience that defies categorization, while addressing feminist themes through innovative arrangements.
Nicole Zuraitis’s album “Live at Vic’s,” recorded in Las Vegas, features her dynamic vocal performances alongside skilled musicians. She revitalizes classic songs and incorporates jazz elements into R&B standards. With a diverse repertoire and two recent Grammy wins for Best Jazz Vocal Album, Zuraitis exemplifies a fresh voice in the jazz scene.
Kirk Fletcher’s album “Keep On Pushing” showcases his exceptional guitar skills and features three originals alongside seven covers. Co-produced with JD Simo, the album delivers a blend of traditional blues and contemporary elements, embodying a hopeful message during uncertain times. Fletcher continues to be a prominent figure in the blues scene.
Ben Clifton, a Pittsburgh native now based in Houston, releases his debut album “Overlook,” reflecting his personal experiences and musical collaborations. The album includes contemporary jazz tracks like “Convocation” and “Shadows,” featuring smooth arrangements and a pop-influenced vocal. With an easy-listening, peaceful vibe, it’s perfect for relaxation.
Rez Abbasi’s “Sound Remains,” his 17th album, features his Acoustic Quintet blending jazz with elements of his heritage. The compositions reflect themes of mindfulness and freedom, showcasing Abbasi’s guitar mastery and innovation. Musical improvisation prevails, with resonant vibraphone, driving rhythms, and rich textures, celebrating cultural influences in a unique sound.
Eric Alexander and Vincent Herring release their live album “Split Decision” at SMOKE Jazz Club, showcasing powerful saxophone duels alongside an all-star band. The album features exciting tracks like “Pharoah’s Dance” and “Strollin’,” highlighting their chemistry and musicianship. Their collaboration continues to thrive in the jazz tradition of live performances.
Pat Petrillo’s album “Contemporaneous” showcases jazz fusion with energetic tracks like “Fused” and “Late Night Diner,” featuring impressive solos and vibrant rhythms. The release highlights Petrillo’s skills as a drummer and composer, complemented by talented musicians. His previous work includes collaborations with notable artists and involvement in Broadway shows.
Bilingual vocalist Lauren Henderson’s album “Sonidos” features 17 tracks blending African Diaspora and Latin American music influences. With warm vocals and a talented backing band, she explores themes of love, resilience, and celebration. The collection balances jazz standards with Latin-infused tunes, showcasing her cultural roots and musical evolution.
Hayes Carll’s tenth album, “We’re Only Human,” combines country elegance with grit, focusing on self-forgiveness and positivity amidst imperfections. Collaborating with talented musicians, Carll delivers insightful songs that range from humorous critiques of societal issues to heartfelt reflections on life. The album embodies a refreshing outlook with strong storytelling and musical depth.