Tessa Souter’s album “Shadows and Silence: The Erik Satie Project” celebrates the centennial of composer Erik Satie’s death. Showcasing her lyrical prowess and blending French and English, Souter delivers stunning interpretations. The project evokes deep emotion, featuring collaborations and originally penned lyrics, marking it as a significant artistic achievement in jazz music.
Jeff Chaz, born in Louisiana, is a prominent figure in Southern music, transitioning from trombone and trumpet to guitar and vocals. He’s known for his collaborations with blues legends and his award-winning performances. His new EP, “Apartment 14,” features a mix of rhythmic instrumentals and soulful lyrics, showcasing his mastery in blues music.
The Toy Factory Project made its debut at the Telluride Bluegrass Festival, presenting a blend of southern rock and bluegrass. Led by drummer Paul T. Riddle, the ensemble honored the legacy of Toy Caldwell, featuring renowned musicians. The concert captivated a crowd of 12,000 while reviving classic songs with a fresh take.
Doug MacLeod, a blues musician born in 1946, overcame a challenging childhood, using music to express and connect. Notable for his unique storytelling and soulful voice, he has released numerous albums, winning several Blues Music Awards. His latest works, “Raw Blues 1” and “Raw Blues 2,” continue his legacy, bridging blues history with fresh themes.
The “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey” show #305 features an array of musical guests including Gwyn Ashton, Andrea Dawson, and Hell To Pay. The playlist showcases various tracks from artists like Buddy Guy, Joe Bonamassa, and The Rolling Stones, blending blues and rock influences for an engaging listening experience.
Making a Scene Presents the podcast “LIVE from the Midnight Circus,” featuring Lisa Mann. This platform highlights Indie Blues artists who celebrate the genre’s evolution and diversity. They honor past influences while innovating original music that resonates deeply with listeners, capturing the essence of the blues as a living art form.
Lisa Mann, a two-time Blues Music Award winner from Portland, blends southern warmth and rock dynamics in her powerful blues vocals. Drawing inspiration from legends, she crafts authentic songs and performs with notable artists. Beyond music, she mentors neuro-diverse performers, showcasing versatility in various projects, including traditional metal and symphonic rock.
Gwyn Ashton is a dynamic Australian alt-blues rock guitarist, singer, and one-man band, known for electrifying performances and a new album, Mojosoul. He tours extensively internationally and collaborates with renowned artists. With a gritty sound and magnetic stage presence, Ashton is celebrated among blues rock legends and continues to push musical boundaries.
Jennifer Lee’s album “Glimpse,” her fourth release, showcases her evolution as a composer and vocalist. Collaborating with guitarist Peter Sprague, the album features original songs and tributes to her husband. Lee’s warm, Brazilian-influenced voice and songwriting shine throughout, marking a significant growth since her earlier works.
From the Dirt, a bluegrass band from Central Maryland, blends genres with rich vocal harmonies and introspective songwriting. Fronted by Daniel Kenny, their album “Colored Edge of Memory” explores themes of heartache and resilience through varied instrumentation. Notable tracks range from haunting ballads to upbeat tunes, showcasing their musical versatility.
Pianist Charles Chen’s album “Building Characters” explores character portraits in jazz, paying tribute to influential musicians. Each track evokes a musician and fictional character, blending styles from Duke Ellington to modern influences. The ensemble features prominent artists, delivering passionate solos and indelible melodies, fulfilling jazz tradition while celebrating Asian-American Heritage Month.
Patrick Zimmerli TRIO’s album “Songs of Innocence,” features original compositions blending sincerity and complexity. Tracks like “60 Morningside” and “Wedding Song” showcase uplifting melodies, while “Dreamscape” explores the darker realms of dreams. The energetic “Torsion” highlights the dynamic interplay between piano and sax, concluding with a strikingly abrupt finish.
Ross Thorn, an Americana singer-songwriter from Wisconsin, releases his second album “Tries Fitting In” on August 8th, 2024, following his debut “Hugo.” Featuring themes of empathy and inclusion, the album showcases Thorn’s unique sound with instrumental support. He expresses hope for connection and belonging through his music.
Ernie Palmer, a retired elementary school teacher from Cartersville, Georgia, reflects on his life filled with stories, music, and family. Married for 48 years, he cherishes time with his wife Gale, their daughters, and grandsons. Drawing inspiration from his upbringing, Vietnam experience, and Texas songwriting, he now focuses on writing songs and traveling.
Saul Dautch’s album “Music for the People” showcases his baritone saxophone skills, influenced by jazz legends. The quintet features varied compositions, including original pieces and a tribute to mentor Pepper Adams. Dautch’s heartfelt liner notes reflect gratitude for his journey in music over five years in New York City.
Sumi Tonooka’s “Under the Surface” features the Alchemy Sound Project, expanding her trio into a septet. The album, inspired by tree roots’ collaboration, showcases masterful compositions and performances, particularly highlighting Tonooka’s innovative piano work alongside talented musicians. The diverse interplay and arrangements create an engaging musical experience.
Noah Haidu’s “Standards III” features a fresh trio alongside veteran musicians, resulting in a diverse mix recorded in multiple studios. Highlights include original tracks and classic standards, showcasing both emerging talents and established artists. While the album has its strengths, it falls short compared to Haidu’s previous works, yet invites anticipation for future projects.
The podcast “Live from the Midnight Circus Indie Blues Double Shot Show” showcases the evolution of Indie Blues, highlighting diverse artists who innovate while honoring their roots. It emphasizes the genre as a living art form, promoting musicians who create original music with emotional depth, connecting with listeners through truth and integrity.
Maria Muldaur, known for her hit “Midnight on the Oasis,” explores American Roots Music in her album “One Hour Mama: The Blues Of Victoria Spivey.” Acknowledged as a trailblazer, Muldaur’s diverse musical journey includes collaborations with notable artists. This project showcases her emotional depth and commitment to the blues genre.
A Tribute to the King of Zydeco celebrates Clifton Chenier’s influence on American music, featuring The Rolling Stones and various artists honoring his legacy. The album, produced by C.C. Adcock, combines zydeco with artists’ diverse styles while supporting a scholarship in Chenier’s name. It highlights his innovative contributions and vibrant musical spirit.
Jeff Walton’s debut album “Pack Animals” showcases his late blooming career as a tenor saxophonist and composer. A former public school teacher, Walton incorporates diverse influences from choral music and improvisation. The album features dynamic pieces like “NQT” and “Blues for George,” reflecting his musical community and personal history.
Julian Shore’s album “Sub Rosa,” featuring Martin Nevin on bass and Allan Mednard on drums, is an original jazz collection characterized by its mysterious, abstract compositions. The album showcases Shore’s evolution with his bandmates, highlighting intricate solos and emotional depth that invites personal connections, making it a significant contribution to contemporary jazz.
Benny Benack III, a charismatic trumpeter-vocalist-composer, shines in his live album “This is the Life.” Recently recognized as a leading rising star, he showcases his talents alongside family and peers. The album features original compositions and standards, highlighting Benack’s joyful energy, versatile vocals, and impressive musicianship in a vibrant performance.
Transcendence, a trio featuring Bob Gluck, Christopher Dean Sullivan, and Karl Latham, pays tribute to Pat Metheny by interpreting five of his compositions alongside works by Keith Jarrett and Herbie Hancock. The album showcases their innovative sound, with Gluck using synthesizers to evoke Metheny’s guitar style and Sullivan’s prominent bass solos.
Making a Scene presents a podcast featuring Indie Blues artists who celebrate the genre’s diverse roots while innovating and creating new music. This movement honors past influences and empowers future artists, reflecting their reality and connecting emotionally with listeners through original compositions. Tune in to experience the essence of Indie Blues.
“Turn it Up” with Gerry Casey features an eclectic mix of music in show #304, including legendary artists like The Beach Boys, Alice Cooper, and Bob Dylan. The playlist highlights various genres, showcasing tracks like “Good Vibrations,” “Wild Ones,” and “Blowing In The Wind,” celebrating diverse musical talents and styles.
Davis Coen’s tenth album, “These Things Shall Pass,” explores spiritual themes through a mix of classic hymns and original songs, including collaborations with Patrick McClary. Coen’s music blends contemporary country-blues, influenced by his Southern roots and extensive touring. His work has received notable media recognition and features across various platforms.
The British Broadcasting Corporation is an exceptional band featuring seasoned musicians Bob Cranham, Dave Williamson, Ben Keen, and Barry Cook. Known for their extensive experience and humor, they deliver a unique sound. Each member has a rich background, collaborating with notable artists and showcasing versatility in various genres.
Ben Sidran’s album “Are We There Yet – Live at the Sunside” features a dozen tracks, with nine original compositions showcasing his unique blend of jazz and philosophical lyrics. Recorded in Paris, the album reflects Sidran’s enduring career, emphasizing his thought-provoking songs and the dynamic performances of his ensemble, despite some excessive monologues.
Alison Tucker, a talented singer-songwriter from Austin, Texas, captivates listeners with her relatable and vivid lyrics. Her debut album, “Where You Used to Be,” showcases her rich alto voice and storytelling ability. She will embark on her Second Chance Tour in spring 2025, further connecting with audiences through her music.
The Boneshakers, led by Randy Jacobs, release their new album “Live To Be This” on Gulf Coast Records, showcasing vibrant blues, soul, and rock. Featuring powerhouse vocalist Jenny Langer and an all-star guest lineup, the album honors their legacy with innovative originals and reimagined covers, melding Detroit soul with Southern influences.
Mira Choquette, a multi-lingual vocalist, collaborates with Armenian jazz musicians, including pianist Samvel Gasparyan, to create a diverse jazz album. Their performances of classic songs showcase emotional depth and cultural fusion. The project evolved from a duo concept to a fuller ensemble, reflecting the unique atmosphere of Armenia.
Itai Kriss’s album “Daybreak” showcases his talents as a flautist and composer. Featuring an ensemble with Adam Birnbaum, Luke Sellick, and special guests, the album captures the progression of a day through vivid melodies, jazz improvisations, and diverse musical styles, concluding with a joyous gospel piece, “In the Light.”
The podcast “Live from the Midnight Circus Indie Blues Double Shot Show” showcases the evolution of Indie Blues, highlighting diverse artists who innovate while honoring their roots. It emphasizes the genre as a living art form, promoting musicians who create original music with emotional depth, connecting with listeners through truth and integrity.
Amina Claudine Myers, celebrated as a NEA Jazz Master, blends her gospel roots with avant-garde influences in her album “Solace of the Mind.” Featuring original compositions like “African Blues” and reimagined tunes, her music evokes meditation and emotional depth, reflecting her rich musical journey within the AACM and beyond.
Meltem Ege’s album “Solitude” merges English and Turkish lyrics, reflecting her cultural roots and emotional complexity. Featuring jazz and pop elements, it includes collaborations with international musicians and showcases Ege’s dynamic vocal style. Notable tracks like “Anlayana” and “Aklinda Kalmasin” highlight her creativity, blending genres and influences seamlessly.
Teskey is an independent blues band formed in 2024, featuring Brandon Teskey, Brandon Gaddy, Matt Baldwin, and Peter Murphy. Their debut album “White Wolf” includes eleven original songs addressing themes such as heartbreak and resilience. The emotive instrumentals and lyrics reflect personal struggles, especially Teskey’s wife’s battle with cancer.
Joe Kennedy collaborates with the David Hughes Quartet on “Time Travel,” featuring original compositions and jazz standards. The album showcases Kennedy’s piano and organ skills, highlighted in tracks like “Tony’s Turnaround” and “Mineshaft.” The quintet delivers a captivating blend of influences, enriched by strong solos from featured musicians.
The album “Llegue” by Jason T. Reddish revisits the legacy of his father’s band, Reddish Fetish, which fused jazz, rock, and world music in the 1960s. Featuring various talented musicians, it revitalizes classic tunes and incorporates fresh arrangements, showcasing Reddish’s journey as a bandleader and producer in contemporary jazz.
Something Blue highlights the evolution of Posi-Tone Records, founded by Marc Free and Nick O’Toole. The label, renowned for straight-ahead jazz, celebrates its 30th anniversary with an album featuring compositions from the ‘90s, interpreted by a talented sextet. The musicians showcase vibrant performances, blending traditional and contemporary jazz influences seamlessly.
Cassie Taylor, daughter of blues artist Otis Taylor, returns with a new album exploring gospel-infused blues and soul after a decade away from music due to mental health struggles. The ensemble features notable tracks like “Downward Road” and “Respect Yourself,” showcasing her journey of reclaiming identity in her artistic legacy.
Jennifer Lyn & The Groove Revival, since their 2021 debut EP, have made significant strides in the blues genre, reaching #4 on the Billboard Blues chart. Led by vocalist Jennifer Lyn and guitarist Richard Torrance, the band combines traditional blues with modern influences, earning seven Independent Blues Music Award nominations and consistently ranking in blues radio charts.
The Turn it Up with Gerry Casey show #298 features guest band Ghost Hounds and a diverse playlist including artists like Bruce Springsteen, Neil Young, and Celine Dion. The show showcases various genres and songs, blending classic and contemporary hits, providing listeners with an engaging musical experience.
Willie Nile, born Robert Noonan, is a Buffalo-native musician celebrated for his 21st album, “The Great Yellow Light.” Produced with Stewart Lerman, it features a blend of rock and poignant lyrics across various tracks. Nile has garnered a devoted following and admiration from notable artists, emphasizing his influence in modern music.
Making a Scene presents Live from the Midnight Circus, showcasing Jennifer Lyn and the Groove Revival alongside various Indie Blues artists. The podcast celebrates the evolution of the blues, honorings its roots while emphasizing innovation. These musicians create original music that resonates deeply with listeners, reflecting their realities and emotions.
D.K. Harrell, born in 1998 in Louisiana, is a rising blues artist who grew up influenced by legends like B.B. King. He debuted with “The Right Man” in 2023, earning acclaim and awards. His album showcases his songwriting skills and features a blend of emotional tracks that reflect personal and societal themes.
Cormac Neeson, frontman of Northern Irish rock band The Answer, has evolved his musical career over two decades. Known for powerful vocals, he shifted from hard rock to Americana with his solo album White Feather. Currently leading a seven-piece band, California Irish, he embraces a new folk-rock style, showcasing his artistic versatility.
Paloma Dineli Chesky’s album features her sweet vocals paired with a blend of jazz and pop influences, showcasing her original compositions and unique stylistic sound. Collaborating with skilled musicians, she explores various genres, including Brazilian and American folk. However, some arrangements may not fully enhance her songwriting potential, suggesting a need for professional input.
Kathy Sanborn’s album “Romance Language” features her lead vocals, piano, and original compositions, showcasing her smoky, inviting voice. While the extensive layering of her harmonies and programming work well, hiring a full jazz ensemble could elevate her promising songwriting further. The album highlights her multilingual singing and smooth melodies.
Making a Scene presents an interview with guitarist Bob, known for his 50 years of blues and rock performances across the U.S., now based in Portland. Alongside vocalist Kat, who has graced multiple genres for decades, they bring engaging performances, blending dynamic energy with emotional depth in the local music scene.