Smooth Jazz

Alister Spence’s album “Always Ever” features a collection of sixteen experimental, improvised piano compositions highlighting his unique approach to the instrument. With a focus on sound exploration and artistic accidents, Spence challenges conventional playing, resulting in rich textures and surprising tones. This marks his first solo album in a four-decade career.

The post highlights Ahmad Jamal’s live recording at the Jazz Showcase in Chicago, featuring notable musicians John Heard and Frank Gant. After years of influencing jazz, including artists like Miles Davis, Jamal showcases his original compositions and interpretations of classics. His recent release, recorded in 1976, honors his lasting legacy.

Tia Fuller and Shamie Fuller-Royston, sisters and musicians, honor their family’s musical legacy with their album “Dynasty.” Their duet showcases Tia on alto saxophone and vocals alongside Shamie on piano, blending jazz and classical influences. The album celebrates their mother’s impact, highlighting their artistic connection and powerful performances despite minimal instrumentation.

ROY HARGROVE BERN Time Traveler Recordings Roy Hargrove, trumpet/flugelhorn/composer; Larry Willis, piano; Gerald Cannon, bass; Willie Jones III, drums; Sherman Irby, alto saxophone. When Roy Hargrove burst onto the New York jazz scene, he made an assertive impression on his fellow musicians and the jazz community as a young lion with a big, beautiful roar. […]

Shunzo Ohno’s album, “Live at Joe’s Pub,” captures the essence of his live performances in New York City, showcasing his unique blend of jazz and classical influences. Despite overcoming significant health challenges, Ohno’s trumpet artistry and orchestration radiate beauty and hope, highlighted in tracks like “Going Home” and “Vision.”

Mal Waldron’s “Stardust & Starlight” showcases his exceptional piano talent alongside bassist Steve Rodby and drummer Wilbur Campbell, with special guest Sonny Stitt on alto saxophone. The performance weaves emotive arrangements of jazz standards, emphasizing Waldron’s unique style and individuality. The album celebrates Waldron’s legacy and remarkable collaborations throughout his career.

The Emie R Roussel Trio’s album “Terr” explores themes of unity and shared human experiences through contemporary jazz infused with rock and classical influences. Led by pianist Emie R Roussel, the album features rich instrumentation and memorable compositions, including tributes to influential figures in the jazz community.

The album “Two Nights Live” features Steven Husted and his band, showcasing their talent through classic jazz standards and original compositions. Husted, an accomplished bassist, leads the ensemble in lively performances that emphasize swinging tempos and individual musicianship. The collection includes eight original tracks, capturing the essence of jazz tradition.

Owen Chen’s album “Eternal Wind” features a jazz ensemble reinterpreting iconic Studio Ghibli film scores, led by guitars with harmonica, piano, and drums. The project merges Asian American experiences with jazz, offering enjoyable, laid-back arrangements of beloved melodies. Fans and new listeners alike will appreciate this unique homage to Ghibli’s music.

The triple album “Alight Upon the Lake” features Yusef Lateef alongside jazz legends Kenny Barron, Bob Cunningham, and Tootie Heath. It captures live performances filled with emotion and creativity, showcasing compositions like “Golden Goddess” and “Yusef’s Mood.” The set celebrates Lateef’s artistry and his significant contributions to jazz history.

Shawn Maxwell’s “Frenetic Domain” is a unique jazz-classical hybrid album featuring renowned musicians, including female classical saxophonist Chika Inoue. Inspired by Vandoren’s artist program, Maxwell blends structured compositions with improvisational elements. The album showcases pieces that embody tranquility and innovation, reflecting his musical journey as a clarinetist.

Jesse Davis Quartet’s album “Reflections” showcases a blend of bebop and New Orleans blues, featuring Davis on alto saxophone alongside talented musicians Spike Wilner, John Webber, and Lewis Nash. Each track shines with individual solos and emotional depth, highlighting Davis’s distinctive style and impressive compositions over four decades in jazz.

The Joymakers, a ten-piece ensemble from Austin, Texas, led by Colin Hancock, celebrates the music of the 1920s and 1930s. They blend ragtime, early blues, and country traditions, delivering joyful performances. The band expands on their original seven members, capturing the vibrant essence of historic music with vibrant arrangements and engaging vocals.

Terry Callier’s performance at The Earl of Old Town in Chicago on October 24, 1967, captures the essence of an artist before his first record release. Recorded by Joe Segal, the album features a blend of folk, jazz, and blues. It showcases Callier’s remarkable guitar and vocal talent, reflecting the vibrant 1960s music scene.

Tomas Janzon, a guitarist and composer, blends classical and jazz influences in his album “Jazz Diary.” Featuring melodic pieces shaped by daily entries, the work highlights bassist Nedra Wheeler’s essential role. With intricate grooves and improvisational flair, the album presents a rich exploration of Janzon’s musical journey and Swedish roots.

Stacey and Al Schulman blend traditional jazz with contemporary hip hop in their album “Crazy World.” Featuring various musicians, they reinterpret classic songs while introducing original compositions. Their energetic performances highlight Stacey’s vibrant vocals and Al’s guitar mastery, culminating in a lyrical exploration of love and unity in a diverse musical landscape.

Joe Henderson’s “Consonance” features an electrifying performance at Chicago’s Jazz Showcase, showcasing saxophonist Henderson alongside pianist Joanne Brackeen, bassist Steve Rodby, and drummer Danny Spencer. Their music is characterized by its spontaneity and emotional depth, celebrating improvisation and artistic freedom. The album’s urgency and brilliance captivate listeners, remaining timeless.

Richard Andersson’s album “Monk & More” features a talented European jazz quartet revisiting works by jazz legends including Thelonious Monk and Ornette Coleman. With smooth melodies and intricate improvisations, the album showcases each musician’s skills, particularly Andersson’s captivating double bass solos. This energetic and engaging album is a delightful experience from start to finish.

Anthony Branker’s album “Manifestations of a Diasporic Groove & Spirit” features compositions that reflect on cultural identity and social issues. Notable tracks include “The Children of Lyles Station,” which recounts a tragic historical event, and “Stolen Sisters,” honoring indigenous women missing or murdered. Branker’s work merges music with deep storytelling.

The album “Plaid Pants” by Ron Cyger and Brent Butterworth showcases their compositional partnership, featuring a mix of original tunes and diverse musical styles. With contributions from various percussionists, the album highlights their collaboration and musical chemistry, blending jazz elements with Latin and blues influences for a celebratory experience.

The album “The Vigil and the Sleeping Giant” by Ron Wilkins and Rebecca Patterson features a four-part suite inspired by the COVID pandemic, reflecting Wilkins’ personal experience with the virus. The tracks blend various instruments and styles, expressing themes of survival, gratitude, and emotional resilience through innovative big band arrangements.

Faye Carol’s double release “Forever Dynamic” showcases her unique approach to blues and jazz, blending traditional and contemporary styles. Praised by notable artists, her raw vocal delivery reinterprets familiar tunes while celebrating a diverse repertoire. Highlights include innovative takes on classics, demonstrating her versatility and deep connection to Black music.

Mativetsky Amiri Pagé’s album “Metamorphose” features a trio of talented musicians: Amir Amiri on santur, Shawn Mativetsky on tabla, and Sarah Pagé on harp and electronics. Their collaboration blends Middle Eastern and world music influences, showcasing unique compositions and improvisation, creating an evolving and organic sound.

Catherine Russell’s “Live at Jazz at Lincoln Center” is her first live album, recorded on March 29, 2024. Focusing on vintage jazz, she showcases lesser-known works from various artists, supported by a horn section and tap dancer Michela Marino Lerman. The album blends nostalgic tunes with vibrant performances, reflecting Russell’s musical heritage.

The Paul Keller Orchestra, featuring celebrated composer Gregg Hill, showcases ten vibrant jazz compositions, including standout tracks like “Thank You Notes” and “Bopportunity.” As they prepare to celebrate forty years in 2027, the orchestra embodies dynamic arrangements, skilled musicianship, and energetic rhythms, continuing to captivate listeners with their joyful sound.

In 2026, Blue Moods, a collective of Posi-Tone artists, pays tribute to Miles Davis through the album “Directions and Expressions.” Featuring compositions from the ’50s to ’80s, the sextet explores various musical styles while omitting a trumpet, highlighting the innovative compositions of Davis and his collaborators, presenting fresh interpretations.

Tigran Hamasyan’s album “Manifeste” merges Armenian spiritual traditions with progressive elements, blending jazz and rock. It showcases unique instrumentation, including the blul and daf, alongside electronic sounds and choir vocals. With tracks like “Prelude for All Seekers” and “Seven Sorrows,” Hamasyan’s composition emphasizes melodic integrity and innovative arrangements.

The Oscar Peterson Trio’s live recordings at Baker’s Keyboard Lounge capture the legendary pianist’s extraordinary talent alongside Ray Brown and Ed Thigpen. The album features dynamic interpretations of jazz standards, blending classical influences with vibrant rhythms. Each performance showcases their virtuosic musicianship, making this collection a vital addition for jazz enthusiasts.

Corcoran Holt’s album “Freedom of Art” blends personal testimony and artistic freedom, featuring a variety of musicians and intimate family moments. Composed during the pandemic, it highlights jazz as a transformative force and celebrates creativity. The music reflects joy, experimentation, and a connection to heritage, encouraging listeners to embrace their truth.

Michael Moody’s album “The Ecstasy of Love” features a dozen classic love songs from the Great American Songbook, showcasing his unique vocal style through creative arrangements and improvisation. Influenced by Billie Holiday and dedicated to Carmen McRae, Moody combines smooth tone and skilled phrasing, though some melodic choices may disappoint traditionalists.

Willy Rodriguez’s album “In the Unknown (I Will Find You)” features ethereal compositions inspired by loss, showcasing his drums alongside Leo Genovese’s piano and Ingrid Laubrock’s saxophone. The thoughtful pieces, accented by Allan Harris’ spoken word, explore deep emotions and aim to connect with experiences of love and remembrance.

Carl Clements’ album “Retrospective” showcases his innovative blend of global musical influences, featuring woodwind instruments like the bansuri. The Real Jazz Trio, comprising Jean-Yves Jung, Johannes Schaedlich, and Jens Biehl, delivers tight performances across nine original compositions. The album reflects deep roots in jazz, Indian, and Latin music, celebrating creativity and collaboration.

The album “Bill Evans at the BBC” captures a 1965 performance of the legendary jazz pianist with bassist Chuck Israels and drummer Larry Bunker. Featuring spontaneous interpretations and unique arrangements of familiar standards, the remastered recording showcases their collective artistry and chemistry, offering an insightful glimpse into Evans’ innovative approach to jazz.

Ray Obiedo’s latest album combines Latin energy and contemporary jazz, featuring vocal arrangements and standout performances from various musicians. Highlights include a unique rendition of “Ain’t No Sunshine” and Obiedo’s original “El Matador,” showcasing his impressive guitar skills. Every track promises to captivate jazz and Latin music enthusiasts alike.

Connor Bernhard’s album “Pathways” features original compositions showcasing his trumpet skills alongside talented musicians. Notable tracks include the crowd-pleasing “Jackalope,” the challenging “Altitude,” and the tribute “Claudio.” The arrangements blend jazz styles, featuring pieces like “Dat Dere” and “Wichita Lineman.” The review highlights the importance of clear credits on the album cover.

Michel Petrucciani, a talented pianist who overcame physical challenges, recorded a remarkable live album with his trio at the Kuumbwa Jazz Center in 1987. The double disc features his innovative compositions alongside jazz standards, highlighting his distinctive style. Petrucciani’s legacy endures through his music and the memories shared by his family and colleagues.

Mark Adams leads a collaboration of fifteen talented musicians in the album “This is Neo-Soul,” showcasing rich jazz and funk influences. While tracks like “Sweet Tears” and “Don’t Stop (the feeling)” groove strongly, the album lacks a standout soloist to unify its dynamic compositions. It’s an homage to the 1970s sound reminiscent of iconic artists.

Benjie Porecki’s album “Faster Than We Know” features eight original compositions and a cover of “Superstar.” Blending contemporary funk jazz, Porecki showcases his versatility on piano, organ, and keyboards alongside Cory Baker and Mark Prince. The collection is characterized by melodic richness and dynamic arrangements, appealing to diverse musical tastes.

Mark Tonelli’s album “Brasileira” showcases his original compositions influenced by Brazilian culture, developed during his time teaching and performing in Brazil. However, the collaboration with musicians often feels disjointed, as their improvisations clash with Tonelli’s guitar melodies. The review highlights moments of disconnect, leaving the listener puzzled about the artistic cohesion.

The Robert Jospé Quartet’s album “The Night Sky” showcases their vibrant blend of Latin rhythms and melodic beauty. Featuring talented musicians, including Jospé on drums, Daniel Clarke on piano, and Chris Whiteman on guitar, each track highlights their musicianship and energy. The album culminates in a captivating finale with a solo by Jospé.

Tierney Sutton collaborates with pianist Tamir Hendelman on her 17th album, a duo project celebrating the theme of spring. Their chemistry shines through in interpretations of classic jazz tunes, showcasing Sutton’s vocal storytelling and Hendelman’s creative piano. The album blends emotion and mastery, creating a soothing musical experience.

“Oná,” a Canadian chamber-jazz ensemble formed in 2024, presents a blend of Brazilian and classical influences. Their album “Sem Vocé” features unique instrument combinations but lacks the vibrant energy typical of Brazilian music. Highlight tracks include tributes and smooth harmonies, yet they fall short of conveying the joy associated with Brazilian traditions.

David Basse’s album “The War Within,” recorded live at Kulak’s Woodshed, features a dynamic jazz trio and showcases Basse’s talents as a drummer, vocalist, and composer. The album includes original compositions and humorous, storytelling lyrics, highlighting Basse’s experience in the Kansas City music scene and his tribute to jazz traditions.

Entre Amigos releases their third album, “Joyful Foundation: The Music of Justin Copeland,” featuring compositions by trumpeter Justin Copeland and ensemble members. The blend of styles showcases advanced harmonics and rhythmic variety. Copeland’s impressive background enhances the group’s vibrant sound, marking a notable progression in their musical journey.

Gafieira Rio Miami is an eleven-piece group that revives vibrant Brazilian music from the 1940s to 1960s, blending jazz with samba and other styles. They feature notable Brazilian artists and a diverse range of rhythms, captivating listeners with energetic performances that encourage dance and joy. The album includes various guest musicians and innovative tracks.

Dave Schumacher’s album “Agua Con Gas,” performed by his Afro-Latin Jazz Septet, showcases his long-standing love for jazz and Afro-Cuban music. With original compositions and engaging arrangements, the album features incredible musicianship, especially from Schumacher’s baritone saxophone. It celebrates rich rhythms and vibrant energy, highlighting the joy of the genre.

Bassist Harvie S. celebrates his 21st album as a band leader with “Bright Dawn,” featuring original compositions and notable covers. Accompanied by Peter Bernstein, Miki Hayama, and Matt Wilson, the album blends melodic jazz with elements of bebop. Pieces like “Ghosts of Havana” and “Waltz for Vartan” showcase Harvie’s mastery and creativity.