Tobias Meinhart’s fifth album, “Sonic River,” metaphorically relates jazz improvisation to flowing water, reflecting his upbringing and daily life. It blends music with literature, featuring spoken word by Sara Serpa. The album showcases a dynamic quintet with meditative and intense moments. Overall, it presents Meinhart’s most realized work to date.
Judy Whitmore, a talented vocalist and author, releases her fifth album with the Chris Walden Orchestra, celebrating the Great American Songbook. The album features jazz and cabaret arrangements, showcasing songs like “I’ll Take Romance” and “Let’s Fall in Love,” highlighting Whitmore’s vocal prowess and emotional depth. Release date: April 24, 2025.
Bernard Allison, a talented blues artist and son of Luther Allison, has evolved his musical style with his breakthrough album “Chills & Thrills”. This album features a blend of blues, funk, rock, and R&B, showcasing original songs and covers. It highlights Bernard’s growth and creativity, marking a significant milestone in his career.
The Warm Audio WA-44 Ribbon Microphone is a modern reinterpretation of the legendary RCA 44, known for its warm, rich sound. It excels in recording guitars, vocals, and drums, providing smooth tonal quality. Built to last with a vintage design, the WA-44 is an accessible option for both studios and home setups.
Brandon Santini, a North Carolina native and blues musician, launched his latest album “Which Way Do We Go?” in 2024, recording in Memphis. Featuring personal tracks written during the pandemic, the album showcases the band’s raw energy and calls for love and compassion. Santini’s evolution as an artist continues with this release.
Drummer and composer Phil Haynes demonstrates his wide musical scope in two new albums: “Return to Electric” and “Transition(s).” The former revisits jazz-rock fusion with covers and originals showcasing his trio’s dynamic interplay, while the latter, with guitarist Ben Monder, explores atmospheric improvisation, highlighting their enduring chemistry despite a long hiatus.
Susan Hinkson’s debut jazz album “Just in Time” features her laid-back vocal style supported by a talented band. Opening with “One for My Baby,” she showcases her natural storytelling ability and swing. Though transitioning from a career in urban strategy, Hinkson’s potential shines through, suggesting she could evolve into a formidable jazz singer.
Kneebody returns with their first studio album in six years, “Reach,” featuring a reformed lineup. This album blends genres, showcasing jazz, prog-rock, and R&B influences. The band emphasizes collaboration through spontaneous songwriting, with each member contributing tracks. Despite geographic challenges, they remain committed to their evolving sound and legacy in music.
Matt Andersen’s sixteenth album, “The Hammer & The Rose,” showcases his powerful voice and songwriting talent. Released in 2023, it features co-written tracks with several artists, blending heartfelt lyrics with a soulful sound. Andersen, a celebrated Canadian musician, continues to captivate audiences worldwide with his emotive performances and extensive touring history.
Ginger St. James, a Canadian performer, showcases her powerful voice in her third album “Told Ya,” blending rockabilly, country, and blues. Recorded in Ontario, the album features lively tracks filled with humor and emotion. Ginger’s storytelling captures life’s ups and downs, making it a recommended listening experience for music lovers.
Making a Scene Presents the podcast featuring Tony Holiday, celebrating Indie Blues as a vibrant and evolving art form. These artists honor their roots while innovating original music that resonates emotionally with listeners. The podcast emphasizes the diversity and power of contemporary blues, encouraging the growth of the Indie Blues movement.
Tony Holiday, formerly of Tony Holiday and the Velvetones, now leads The Tony Holiday Band, known for their blend of blues and Memphis soul. Their new album “Keep Your Head Up,” recorded in multiple studios, showcases Holiday’s songwriting and includes collaborations with notable musicians. The band continues to tour extensively while evolving their sound.
Tony Holiday, a key figure in Memphis’s soul blues revival, blends community and music since relocating in 2017. His latest release, “Keep Your Head Up,” embodies resilience. Following his album “Motel Mississippi,” which features collaborations and a mix of styles, Tony is redefining modern blues while honoring its roots.
Vicki Peterson, a founding member of The Bangles, and John Cowsill, from The Cowsills, have released an album titled “Long After The Fire.” Their collaboration features heartfelt vocal duets with a twangy sound reminiscent of The Everly Brothers and Roy Orbison, highlighting their musical chemistry and rich harmonies across diverse themes.
Tim Gartland’s sixth album, “Right Amount of Funky,” showcases his deep blues roots and exceptional harmonica skills with a blend of influences from Chicago to Nashville. The eight tracks feature engaging stories and tight band performances, highlighting songs like “A Better Life” and “Walk Away.” This album promises to resonate with blues enthusiasts.
Alfonso “John” Primer, born in Mississippi in 1945, is a significant figure in blues music. His latest album, “Grown in Mississippi,” features a mix of original songs and covers, showcasing his talent as a guitarist and vocalist. Primer’s contributions to the genre continue to earn him multiple Grammy nominations, affirming his legacy.
Gerry Casey interviews Stone James, a former member of The Dead Show Dealers, who now fronts the country-rock band Hollis Dorian. Known for his powerful riffs and honest songwriting, Stone blends rock energy with soulful storytelling, creating music that reflects his journey while delivering the same intensity fans expect.
Freddie Hubbard’s “On Fire: Live from the Blue Morocco” celebrates the iconic jazz trumpeter’s legacy through previously unreleased live recordings. Featuring legendary musicians, the album showcases Hubbard at the peak of his career, delivering emotional performances of beloved jazz classics and original compositions, capturing his unique sound and vibrant energy.
Clay Wulbrecht’s album “The Clockmaster” features an eclectic blend of electronic soundscapes and jazz influences. Highlights include tracks like “Time to Get Up” and “Hit the Ground Running,” showcasing impressive collaboration and innovative arrangements. Wulbrecht’s unique style and musical mastery shine through, portraying his artistic evolution. The album releases on May 2nd.
Alex “Apolo” Ayala leads the Bámbula Project, showcasing vibrant Afro-Puerto Rican jazz through a percussive-driven ensemble. The album features compelling compositions primarily by Ayala, highlighted by captivating bass solos, intricate drumming, and expressive saxophone melodies. The three-part Agonia Suite exemplifies the innovative connections between traditional and contemporary jazz elements.
ALO, a California rock band with over 30 years of history, comprises Dan Lebowitz, Steve Adams, Zach Gill, and drummer Ezra Lipp. Their new album “Frames” features diverse songwriting from all members, showcasing their strong friendship and musical synergy. The record blends emotion and humor, marking a significant evolution for the band.
The Atlantic Jazz Collective, featuring Norma Winstone and Joe LaBarbera, delivers a stunning performance on “Seascape,” showcasing notable compositions. Winstone’s emotive vocals complement Mike Murley’s saxophone, while Florian Hoefner’s dynamic piano solos and LaBarbera’s skilled drumming enhance the collective’s impressive interpretations. This historic project captivates jazz enthusiasts with its rich artistry.
Russ Spiegel, an accomplished guitarist and composer, leads a talented ensemble through a blend of jazz and blues. Born into a musical family, he developed his craft studying in Germany and later at Berklee. Now based in Miami, he teaches at Florida International University while showcasing his original compositions and tribute works.
Taylor Robert, originally destined for preaching, found his passion for music in the Minnesota Boy Choir. Influenced by blues and rock legends, he evolved into a solo artist with a distinct Roll N Soul sound. His latest album, Brighter Day, reflects on heartbreak and healing, featuring collaborations from notable Minneapolis musicians.
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.
Ann Kittredge’s album “Reimagine” features her powerful vocals and dramatic interpretations of various songs, blending Broadway flair with contemporary arrangements. Accompanied by talented musicians, Kittredge explores emotional themes across thirteen tracks, including classics like “Time in a Bottle” and “Edelweiss.” Her artistry captures the essence of cabaret, engaging listeners.
Johnny Hoy and The Bluefish, formed in 1991 on Martha’s Vineyard, draw inspiration from blues legends. Their live album, recorded at The Fallout Shelter, features a mix of original songs and covers, showcasing Hoy’s harmonica skills and vocal range. The band continues to perform regularly, enriching their local music scene.
The Wildwoods, a Nebraska folk-American trio, released their fourth album, Dear Meadowlark. Their acoustic sound blends genuine folk and indie influences, showcasing warm harmonies. The band, formed in middle school, reflects on youth and home with engaging performances and introspective songs. Their talent hints at a bright future ahead.
The collaboration “Audience with the Queen” showcases Irma Thomas, the “Soul Queen of New Orleans,” alongside the jam band Galactic. This anticipated album blends contemporary and classic influences, highlighting Thomas’s powerful vocals across nine tracks. Themes of joy, social justice, and love are interwoven, asserting her continuous reign in the music world.
Marc Mysterio’s lawsuit against Amazon Music raises critical issues about trust and ethics in streaming services. He alleges unpaid royalties due to underreported streams and shadow banning, highlighting systemic issues affecting independent musicians. The opaque nature of these platforms hampers artists’ ability to verify earnings, prompting a desire for decentralized solutions that ensure transparency and control.
Making a Scene showcases the “LIVE from the Midnight Circus” podcast featuring indie blues artists who honor the genre’s roots while innovating and creating original music. This movement celebrates diversity and emotional connection, emphasizing the living nature of blues as artists draw from the past to empower their future.
Reverend Peyton’s Big Damn Band has earned international acclaim for their dynamic performances and genuine love for music. Recognized as one of the top blues bands, they’ve topped charts and received multiple awards. Their latest album, “Dance Songs For Hard Times,” showcases their vibrant energy and commitment to roots music with critical praise.
Suno.com is an innovative AI-powered platform designed for indie musicians, enhancing the songwriting process by facilitating collaboration and fast idea prototyping. It allows artists to generate melodies, lyrics, and arrangements based on prompts, enabling real-time co-writing and experimentation, thereby amplifying creativity without replacing the human artistic touch.
The latest episode of “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey” features a diverse lineup of artists including XII Doors, California Irish, and The Drugs, showcasing a variety of songs like “I Drove All Night,” “Rock You Like A Hurricane,” and “End Of The Line.” The show explores numerous genres and notable performances.
José Luiz Martins’ “Odyssey Mixtape” intertwines Brazilian roots with American fusion jazz and hip hop, showcasing his piano and composition skills despite battling Focal Dystonia. Featuring notable guests, the album highlights themes of resilience and hope, blending vibrant arrangements with heartfelt performances. It will be released on April 18, 2025.
Sari Schorr, a Blues-Rock artist recognized for her powerful vocals and socially conscious lyrics, emerged with her debut album “A Force of Nature.” Her music reflects personal struggles and global issues, emphasizing unity and compassion. Beyond music, she engages in humanitarian work and advocates for various social causes, embodying resilience and activism.
David Hajdu Lives of The Saints Sunnyside David Hajdu is a writer-producer who has written the lyrics for Lives of The Saints. These saints are not those of the canon of the Catholic Church but ordinary individuals who have attained that status in his mind. These are women who did exceptional work but suffered in […]
Maria Manousaki’s third album, “Behind Closed Doors,” merges Cretan culture with polyrhythmic jazz, showcasing her expertise as a violinist and composer. Collaborating with renowned jazz artists, her compositions evoke deep emotions and vibrant storytelling. Dedicated to her father’s memory, the album illustrates Manousaki’s role as a cultural bridge in music.
Eva Rose Schultz and David Pippin present a rich musical collaboration, drawing on blues, R&B, and indie folk. Their EP, Black Water Blues, explores heartache and resilience. Following this, their live album captures their dynamic stage presence, showcasing their blend of traditional and contemporary influences, engaging audiences through heartfelt storytelling.
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.
The UNLV Jazz Ensemble 1’s album “Let the Good Times Roll” showcases jazz artistry featuring guest artists like Chris Holmes and Naomi Mauro. Produced by Grammy-winning Gregg Field, it celebrates student and faculty creativity amid budget cuts. The project honors jazz’s significance in higher education, with multiple standout performances highlighting talented musicians.
Gustavo Cortiñas’ album “The Crisis Knows No Borders” explores the ramifications of global warming through a jazz quartet. Each track addresses themes like economic disparity, resource depletion, and climate skepticism. Musically, Cortiñas creates a diverse soundscape reflecting tensions in society. The project encourages deep reflection amidst ongoing environmental challenges.
Whispering Worlds is a quartet formed in 2022, inspired by Jon Hassell, creating experimental jazz that resembles film soundtracks. Their debut album, “Cosmic Cliffs,” released on March 28, 2025, features original compositions predominantly by trumpeter Aaron Shragge, blending eclectic sounds, including East Indian Raga and Japanese shakuhachi.
The latest episode of “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey” features a diverse lineup of artists including XII Doors, California Irish, and The Drugs, showcasing a variety of songs like “I Drove All Night,” “Rock You Like A Hurricane,” and “End Of The Line.” The show explores numerous genres and notable performances.
Making a Scene showcases the “LIVE from the Midnight Circus” podcast featuring indie blues artists who honor the genre’s roots while innovating and creating original music. This movement celebrates diversity and emotional connection, emphasizing the living nature of blues as artists draw from the past to empower their future.
The latest episode of “Turn it Up with Gerry Casey” features a diverse lineup of artists including XII Doors, California Irish, and The Drugs, showcasing a variety of songs like “I Drove All Night,” “Rock You Like A Hurricane,” and “End Of The Line.” The show explores numerous genres and notable performances.
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.
Making a Scene showcases the “LIVE from the Midnight Circus” podcast featuring indie blues artists who honor the genre’s roots while innovating and creating original music. This movement celebrates diversity and emotional connection, emphasizing the living nature of blues as artists draw from the past to empower their future.
Jennifer Lyn & The Groove Revival released their debut EP “Nothing Holding Me Down” in 2021, reaching #4 on the Billboard Blues chart. Their latest project, “Retrograde,” features ten original songs blending rock and blues influences, showcasing powerful vocals and instruments. The band continues to gain acclaim with multiple award nominations.
Geoffrey Dean Quartet’s second album, “Conceptions,” showcases original jazz compositions blending straight-ahead styles with modern elements. The ensemble, comprised of Dean, trumpeter Justin Copeland, bassist Harish Raghaven, and drummer Eric Binder, emphasizes collaboration and individual expression. Each track offers distinct themes, demonstrating their musical synergy and creativity.