Aretha Tillotson’s sophomore album, “Kinda Out West,” features original compositions highlighting her band, including notable jazz musicians. The album blends contemporary jazz with emotive pieces like “Lullaby to those Before” and energetic tracks such as “Sphere of Influence.” Tillotson’s bass and her quartet showcase remarkable improvisation and musicality throughout.
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.
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.
Andy B., lead singer of The VooDUDES, launched a solo project with producer John Pittas, resulting in the album “My Roots Are Showing.” It features diverse American roots sounds, showcasing Andy’s storytelling and unique voice. His music garners international airplay and has contributed significantly to the New Jersey music scene.
Dr. Shawn Purcell’s album “Oblivity” showcases ten energetic jazz compositions performed by a talented ensemble. The title track embodies imagination and artistry, while pieces like “Quiet the Chaos” and “Verdigris” highlight dynamic arrangements and improvisation. The album blends contemporary jazz with straight-ahead influences, showcasing Purcell’s guitar mastery.
Waitiki 7’s album “Exotica Reborn” revives the lush soundscapes of Hawaii’s golden age, featuring 97-year-old drummer Harold Chang. Blending jazz, Hawaiian folk, and nature sounds, the group reinterprets classic Exotica tunes like “Quiet Village” and “Yellowbird.” Their improvisational style introduces a new generation to this captivating genre.
David Kikoski Trio’s “Weekend at Smalls” showcases Kikoski’s piano talents, accompanied by Randy Brecker on trumpet, Joe Martin on bass, and Billy Hart on drums. This lively concert blends energetic post-bop with original compositions, reflecting Kikoski’s esteemed status in jazz. The album honors the New York jazz scene while uplifting listeners worldwide.
The Wild Iris Brass Band merges New Orleans tradition with diverse influences including Afrobeats, Brazilian carnival, jazz, and Tennessee roots. Led by Jeff Coffin and Ray Mason, their music is energetic and party-like, featuring engaging vocals and special guests like Bela Fleck. This vibrant collaboration celebrates brass band culture joyfully.
The Steve Holt Jazz Impact Quintet’s album “Impact” features high-energy jazz compositions led by pianist Steve Holt, who contributes six of the nine tracks. With a talented group including Duncan Hopkins, Terry Clarke, Perry White, and Kevin Turcotte, the album showcases exquisite arrangements and performances, marking a significant addition to Holt’s musical career.
Bruce Gertz Quintet’s album “Octopus Dreams” features compositions by bassist Bruce Gertz, showcasing his talents alongside skilled musicians. The tracks blend dissonant harmonics and expressive solos, with highlights including “Power Walk” and the moody title track. Overall, the album is engaging, well-played, and beautifully arranged, earning high praise from reviewer Dee Dee McNeil.
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.
Stefan Hegerat’s band, Stef.in, releases their second album “Icterus II,” blending jazz, rock, and electronics. The quartet, featuring guitars, bass, and drums, creates an experimental soundscape. Key tracks include “Here’s to Circle” and “Aku San Zan,” showcasing rhythmic complexities and melodic intricacies that cater to an acquired taste in music.
“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.
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.
Blockchain crowdfunding offers musicians a way to raise funds directly from fans through cryptocurrency, eliminating middlemen and fees associated with traditional platforms. Independent artists like Mia Carter can create campaigns, offer unique rewards, and engage their supporters more closely, fostering a collaborative environment that empowers both creators and fans in the music industry.
“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.
Dean Zucchero, originally from New York’s East Village, has evolved through various music scenes, including a nine-year European stint and a return to New Orleans. Amid the Covid pandemic, he revitalized local music through the “Acoustic Blues Series” and a mini Jazz Fest, laying the groundwork for a new solo album celebrating community and resilience.
Petra Onderuf, a Slovakian violinist and composer, explores unique musical expressions in her jazz project “An Odd Time of Day.” With influences from her cultural roots, she blends classical techniques and improvisation. The album showcases her original compositions, featuring captivating arrangements and performances by distinguished musicians, creating a rich auditory experience.
Charles Tolliver’s concert album, “Live at the Captain’s Cabin,” showcases a dynamic quartet featuring brilliant interplay among Tolliver on trumpet, John Hicks on piano, Clint Houston on bass, and Cliff Barbaro on drums. Their creativity and cohesion shine through original compositions and jazz standards, resulting in an engaging and powerful listening experience.
Alex McLaughlin, a bassist and composer from Erie, Pennsylvania, has released his debut album “A Brand New State,” featuring eight original tracks. Blending contemporary jazz with influences from Thelonious Monk, he collaborates with skilled musicians to explore themes of change. His compositions evoke deep emotions and rich imagery, showcasing his profound musicality.
Cliff Korman Trio’s album “Urban Tracks,” features Korman (piano), Harvie S. (bass), and Rafael Barata (drums). Korman’s mastery shines in tracks celebrating Brazilian music, like “Chelo de Malicia” and “Manha De Carnaval.” His arranging skills are highlighted in jazz standards, offering a vibrant, engaging listening experience throughout the album.
The Caribbean Christmas Mixtape Vol. 1, created by Joy Lapps and Larnell Lewis, showcases holiday songs infused with Caribbean rhythms and joy. Featuring top Toronto musicians, the album offers fresh arrangements, notable performances like “SOCA Sleigh Ride,” and a celebration of cultural diversity, aiming to inspire and uplift through music.
Greg Nagy is a versatile artist known for his soulful blend of blues, R&B, and rock. His debut album earned a Best New Artist nomination, with subsequent releases like “Fell Toward None” and “Stranded” receiving critical acclaim. He has performed at prestigious events and collaborated with notable musicians, solidifying his standing in contemporary blues.
Steve Davis’ album “We See” features an exceptional sextet interpreting classic jazz standards. Highlights include a dynamic rendition of “Milestones” and an engaging performance of Thelonious Monk’s title tune, showcasing each musician’s talents. Davis emphasizes the importance of ‘long tones’ for developing sound, enriching the album’s intricate arrangements and superb musicianship.