Music Life

Live Music Pick: Thursday, January 5, 2012

2012-01-05T16:06:00.000-08:00

Artist: Harlan / Rumspringa / Noah and the Megafauna
When: Thursday January 5, 2012
Where: The Satellite
Who Should Go: Party boys, fans of Kennedy/Har Mar
Tickets: Free Show

Other Noteworthy Shows:
Vintage Trouble @ Troubadour (Sold Out)
Hanni El Khatib / Jacuzzi Boys @ Alex's Bar(Free w/ RSVP)
Jeff Garlin in Conversation with Henry Rollins @ Largo ($30)

Live Music Pick: Wednesday January 4, 2012

2012-01-04T13:41:00.000-08:00

Artist: Big Business / Neil Hamburger
When: Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Who Should Go: People who shop at Vacation Vinyl
Where: Alex's Bar in Long Beach
Tickets: $10 (buy)

Live Music Pick: Tuesday January 3, 2012

2012-01-03T09:30:00.000-08:00

Artist: Olin and the Moon / Willoughby / Maxim Ludwig / Jeff Crosby
When: Tuesday January 3, 2012
Who Should Go: Sensitive beer drinkers
Where: The Echo
Tickets: $7 at the door

Live Music Options: January 2, 2012

2012-01-02T15:43:00.000-08:00

Artist: Frank Fairfield (NPR feature and Daytrotter Session)
When: Monday January 2, 2012
Who Should Go: Harry Smith acolytes
Where: Redwood Bar
Tickets: Available at the Door

Other Noteworthy Shows:
Princeton @ Bootleg (Free)
Chasing Kings @ The Satellite (Free)
Seasons @ The Echo (Free)
Vinnie Ferra @ Silverlake Lounge (Free)

Best of 2011: #5 - #1

2011-12-27T12:25:00.000-08:00

5) Apex Manor: The Year of Magical Drinking

4) Frankel: Sugar Twists Like Hurricane
<p><p><a href="http://frankel.bandcamp.com/album/sugar-twists-like-hurricane">Sugar Twists Like Hurricane by Frankel</a></p></p>

3) J Mascis: Several Shades of Why

2) Kurt Vile: Smoke Ring For My Halo

1) Charles Bradley: No Time For Dreaming

Honorable Mentions: Atlas Sound, Real Estate, Wye Oak, Stephen Malkmus & the Jicks, Centro-Matic

Best of 2011: #10 - #6

2011-12-27T12:08:00.000-08:00

10) Okkervil River: I Am Very Far

9)My Morning Jacket: Circuital

8) Fleet Foxes: Circuital

7) Girls: Father, Son, Holy Ghost

6) Yuck: Yuck

Live Music Pick of the Night: Descendents at Santa Monica Civic Auditorium

2011-12-18T16:58:00.000-08:00

Artist: Descendents (my favorite band in junior high) / The Vandals / The Dickies
Who Should Go: People who like loud, fast music with some heart
Where: Santa Monica Civic Auditorium
When: Sunday, December 18, 2011
Tickets: $43 (Here)

Other Noteworthy Shows:
Beach Fossils @ The Echoplex ($13)

Live Music Pick: Wednesday, December 7, 2011

2011-12-07T15:36:00.000-08:00

Patrick Carney from the Black Keys produced Tennis' new album (due out in February)

Artist: Tennis / Miniature Tigers / Devon Williams
Who Should Go: Indie rock/indie pop fans
When: Wednesday, December 7, 2011
Where: The Satellite
Tickets: $12 (here or at the door)

Other Noteworthy Shows:
Lana Del Rey @ Troubadour (Sold Out)
Peter Murphy @ Club Nokia ($26 - $35)
The Kooks @ The Music Box ($31)

Live Music Picks: Monday, December 5, 2011

2011-12-05T12:03:00.000-08:00

Aquarium Drunkard posted this last May and it's stuck with me ever since...

Artist: Michael Kiwanuka / Rocco DeLuca and Daniel Lanois / Bleached
Who Should Go: People with taste, people who like to say: "Oh yeah. Well I saw him way back in..."
When: Monday, December 5, 2011
Where: Bardot [1737 Vine Street]
Tickets: Free (RSVP here)

Other Noteworthy Shows:
Frank Fairfield @ Redwood Bar
Light FM / Useless Keys @ Silverlake Lounge (Free)
Manhattan Murder Mystery / Kid Infinity / Stab City @ The Satellite (Free)
Neverever @ The Echo (Free)

Live Music Pick of the Night: Wednesday November 30, 2011

2011-11-30T13:38:00.000-08:00

Artist: Boom Bip (with guests Eric Avery of Jane's Addiction and Josh Klinghoffer of the Red Hot Chili Peppers) / Useless Keys
Who Should Go: People who liked his Neon Neon stuff
When: Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Where: The Satellite
Tickets: $10 (here or at the door)

Other Noteworthy Shows:
Cass McCombs @ The Echo ($14)
Ras G @ Airliner ($10)

Live Music Pick: Tuesday, November 29, 2011

2011-11-29T16:30:00.000-08:00

Band: CAVE / Sun Araw
Who Should Go: Music snobs, psych-y krautrockers
When: Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Where: The Satellite
Tickets: $10 (here or at the door)

Other Noteworthy Shows:
Rachel Yamagata @ Troubadour (Sold Out)

Monday Night Music Pick: November 28, 2011

2011-11-28T16:21:00.000-08:00

Band: Frank Fairfield
Who Should Go: Old time & Americana music fans
When: Monday, November 28, 2011
Where: Redwood Bar
Tickets: Available at the door

Other Noteworthy Shows:
Morrissey @ Fox Theatre Pomona (Sold Out)
Vanaprasta @ The Satellite (Free) - Their residency has been packed
Hi Ho Silver Oh / Charlene Yi @ Silverlake Lounge (Free)

Stefano di Battista: Woman's Land (2011)

2011-11-26T06:07:00.000-08:00

Stefano di Battista (born February 14, 1969) is an Italian jazz saxophonist who plays soprano and alto. He was born in Rome. He began playing at thirteen with friends and became interested in jazz on hearing Art Pepper. In Italy he received guidance from Massimo Urbani and by his twenties di Battista was performing in Paris. He put out his debut as a leader in 1997 and has toured with the Elvin Jones Jazz Machine.

Tracklist:
1. Molly Bloom (05:52)
2. Valentina Tereskova (03:58)
3. Rita Levi (05:59)
4. Coco Chanel (04:40)
5. Ella (03:25)
6. Madame Lily Devalier (04:19)
7. Josephine Baker (05:32)
8. Maria Lani (06:16)
9. Anna Magnani (05:09)
10. Lucy (06:07)
11. Lara Croft (04:04)
12. Woman's Land (05:13)
Personnel:
STEFANO DI BATTISTA - alto & soprano saxophones
JEFF BALLARD - drums, percussions
JONATHAN KREISBERG - acoustic and electric guitars
FRANCESCO PUGLISI - double bass
JULIAN OLIVER MAZZARIELLO - piano on 2, 5, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11
ROBERT TARENZI - piano on 1, 3, 4, 6
IVAN LINS - vocals on Rita Levi
FABRIZIO BOSSO - trumpet on Josephine Baker & Madame Lily Devalier
Recorded January 26th to 28th, 2011, at Forum Music Village, Roma, Italy
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Fileserve @320K

Herbie Hancock: Magic Windows (1981)

2011-11-25T06:01:00.000-08:00

Recorded in 1981 and featuring the following sidemen: Ray Parker Jr. (guitar), Sheila E (percussion), Sylvester (vocals), Michael Brecker (tenor sax), Alphonse Mouzon (drums) and Adrian Belew (guitar). This is a very nice, light funk/fusion date recorded just before he went on a more gritty path with 'Future Shock', which featured the mega-hit 'Rockit'.
Amongst the other synthesisers employed on this album, an Alpha Syntauri (enhanced Apple ][ computer) was used for some of the tracks. Liner-notes on the CD version, from "Jazz Originals Series", say "There are no strings, or other orchestral instruments on this album. All of these orchestrations are performed by Herbie Hancock on various synthesizers."

Tracklist:
1 Magic Number 7:21
2 Tonight's The Night 6:28
3 Everybody's Broke 7:05
4 Help Yourself 6:40
5 Satisfied With Love 6:28
6 The Twilight Clone 8:15
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Hotfile @320K

Wayman Tisdale: The Wayman Tisdale Story (2011)

2011-11-24T00:23:00.000-08:00

Original soundtrack to the 2011 documentary including a bonus DVD containing the documentary. The Wayman Tisdale Story is a feature length documentary celebrating the life and legacy of Wayman Tisdale, a three-time All-American, Gold Medal Olympian, former NBA star and world renowned Jazz musician who lost his two-year battle with bone cancer in May 2009. Rendezvous Music complements this telling of Wayman s story with a soundtrack featuring 13 tracks including the previously unreleased track, 'Slam Dunks', produced by Jeff Lorber. ~ Amazon.com

Tracklist:
01. Tell It Like It TIS (feat. George Duke) [04:51]
02. The Introduction [03:21]
03. Rebound (feat. Dave Koz) [04:20]
04. It's Alright [03:27]
05. Ready To Hang [03:59]
06. Let's Ride (feat. George Duke) [04:07]
07. One On One [04:11]
08. Gabrielle [05:14]
09. Way Up [04:05]
10. Slam Dunk [04:51]
11. Everything In You [03:56]
12. Glory Glory [04:58]
13. Cryin' For Me (Wayman's Song) (feat. Toby Keith) [04:43]
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Fileserve / @ 192 K

Tass Petridis: ST (2004)

2011-11-23T03:38:00.000-08:00

Tass Petridis was born in Greece and raised in Melbourne Australia. He displayed an early affinity for all genres of music and at an early age was proficient on the guitar and bass. Bass and composition was his love and by the age of 18 was working regularly with various bands in Melbourne. Tass studied formally at the Victorian College of Arts were he received his Bachelor of Music degree and the Atheaneum Award of Performance.

In 1994 Tass conducted clinics for Roland Corporation and later for Belman Guitars. Tass has appeared on over 18 albums and has performed with diverse original artists such as Funk R&B bands Ilanda, Disco Montego, Joane / Latin Band Ocaso / Rock with Bob Spencer Band, Angry Anderson, Ross Wilson and has performed with Jazz vocalists Nina Ferro and Julie O'Hara.

Performances for television shows such as Good Morning Australia and Hey Hey its Saturday. His services have graced a variety of television commercials, also session recordings for the musical "The Jackal" featuring Russell Morris. Tass has also been a regular performer for the Australian Music Association Awards.

Since 1994, Tass has worked as an educator on behalf of many private colleges including Melbourne University and the Bass Centre Melbourne.
Tass has currently released his personal self titled album were he showcases an arsenal of some of the finest musicians / vocalists in Australia and displays his abilities both as a bass player and composer / arranger.

Tracklist:

01 - Funk You Punk (3:36)
02 - Somebody Stop Me (4:25)
03 - Lifescapes (4:44)
04 - Peace of Mind (4:37)
05 - Interlude (0:49)
06 - Tedds (7:13)
07 - Back 2 Me (4:44)
08 - Fan Tass Tic (5:46)
09 - Mi 7 (4:31)
10 - Bass Song (4:20)
11 - Launch The Monkey (3:28)
12 - You Were Saying? (6:18)
13 - Hello Goodbye (5:11)

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Fileserve / @ 192 K

Frank Russell: Circle Without End (2011)

2011-11-22T02:07:00.000-08:00

Bass guitarist, Frank Russell’s follow up to his critically acclaimed debut CD, “Covering All Basses,” is titled “Circle Without End” and he does come full circle as he writes and records with some of the musicians who worked with his biggest influence as a musician, the legendary Miles Davis. They include, Robert Irving III, Darryl Jones, Richard Patterson, Dede Sampaio and Miles emissary, the great Wallace Roney on trumpet. Brilliant guitarist, Henry Johnson is also on board, co-producing and playing. Frank also pays homage to the world renowned South African singing group, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, whom he worked with for six years. Described by noted bass guitar author, Jon Liebman, Frank demonstrates a wide variety of bass playing, from funky slapping, R & B grooving, lyrical fretless and tasteful five-string, stating also this dutiful sideman is solidifying his standing as an established solo artist in his own right.

Tracklist:
01. Code MD-2 (feat. Robert Irving III & Wallace Roney)
02. Her Name Is Roz
03. Quick Pix (feat. Darryl Jones & Richard Patterson)
04. Desi In Sedona
05. Ladysmith (Black Mambazo) (feat. Wallace Roney)
06. Would If I Could (feat. Wallace Roney & Darryl Jones)
07. Noble Street Five (feat. Robert Irving III & Corey Wilkes)
08. Orchard's Groove
09. Put Up Your Dukes (Interlude)
10. Shirley's Prayer (feat. Henry Johnson)
11. Soul Carnival (feat. Henry Johnson)
12. Circle Without End
13. Tuesday Heartbreak (feat. Henry Johnson)
14. I Made A Promise
15. Love Will Find a Way (Bonus Track) (feat. Henry Johnson)
16. Put Up Your Dukes, Part 2 (Bonus Track) (feat. Henry Johnson)
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Fileserve / @ 192 K

Vince Mendoza: Nights on Earth (2011)

2011-11-21T00:15:00.000-08:00

It's been 13 years since Vince Mendoza last released an album of all-original music with Epiphany (Zebra, 1999); but it's not as if he hasn't been busy. He's a first-call arranger for high profile jazzers, working on guitarist John Scofield's 54 (EmArcy, 2010), now-deceased keyboard giant Joe Zawinul's Brown Street (Heads Up, 2007), and über-trumpeter Randy Brecker's Some Skunk Funk (Telarc, 2006). He's lived in the pop world with Björk, Elvis Costello and Joni Mitchell, and participated in concept projects like Blauklang (ACT , 2008) and the flamenco-driven El Viento (ACT, 2009). Clearly, for Mendoza, there're only so many hours in a day. Which makes Nights on Earth all the more cause for celebration. Early albums like Start Here (World Pacific, 1990) utilized a relatively large cast of characters and were broad in scope, but here Mendoza achieves a new plateau with a panoramic world view bringing together musical friends, old and new. Mendoza has recruited five different guitarists alone, each for their individual strengths, whether it's a blues-tinged Scofield on the elegiac "Gracias," Nguyên Lê's electrified Orient-icities on the percussion-driven "Shekere," or John Abercrombie's narrative weaving through "Poem of the Moon," which also features rising star trumpeter, Ambrose Akinmusire, and whose dark beginnings gradually pick up steam, all the while retaining the harmonic ambiguity that makes it feel constantly on the edge of a precipice.

A consolidation of sorts, Mendoza culls from his flamenco experience on "Otoño," though its breezy, Mediterranean opening gradually evolves into something more complex, with Lê's scored melody the perfect transition to organist Larry Goldings' solo, which impressively and effortlessly winds its way through Mendoza's constantly shifting harmonic backdrop.

Mendoza's tremendous attention to detail is amongst the many reasons that musicians are drawn to his music. This is challenging music to play; even more challenging music through which to solo. Only four of Night on Earth's dozen tracks crack the six-minute mark, but there's an under-the-sheets complexity that still manages to feel natural—inevitable, even. Whether it's Mendoza's string-driven feature for bandoneonist Hector del Curto ("Addio), the composer's similarly symphonic but more expansive piece for pianist Kenny Werner and saxophonist Joe Lovano ("Beauty and Sadness"), or his polyrhythmic but backbeat-driven work that brings together a largely west coast group, including pianist Alan Pasqua, bassist Jimmy Johnson, and drummer Peter Erskine, with steel drummer Andy Narell and soprano saxophonist Stéphane Guillaume, who soars over the second half of the tune ("Conchita"), it's impossible to pick a highlight on Nights on Earth because every track is filled with them.

With a release schedule so busy that it's easy to miss projects like Fast City: A Tribute to Joe Zawinul (BHM, 2010), it's no surprise Mendoza took so long to get to Nights on Earth. His significance may not be reflected with a household name, but there's little doubt that, amongst musicians, he's a key figure. With 39 performers (excluding Metropole's 30 participants), Nights on Earth is another watershed, representing Mendoza's current position along an evolving path, where profound compositional depth and simple beauty find a rare meeting point.

Tracklist:

01. Otono
02. Poem of the Moon
03. Ao Mar
04. Conchita
05. The Stars You Saw
06. Addio
07. Shekere
08. Beauty and Sadness
09. The Night We Met
10. Gracias
11. Everything is You
12. Lullaby

Personnel:

Vince Mendoza: composer, conductor, arranger, keyboards (7, 9);
Lorraine Perry: vocals (10);
Luciana Souza: vocals (3);
Tom Diakite: kora and vocals (7);
Jim Walker: flute (2, 11);
Joe Lovano: tenor saxophone (5, 8);
Bob Mintzer: tenor saxophone and bass clarinet (3, 11);
Stephane Guillaume: tenor and soprano saxophone (4, 7);
Ambrose Akinmusire: trumpet (3);
Rick Todd: french horn (1, 4, 11);
Jim Self: tuba (1, 4);
John Abercrombie: electric guitar (2, 5, 8);
John Scofield: electric guitar (3, 10);
Nguyen Le: electric guitar (1, 4, 7);
Romero Lubambo: acoustic guitar (3);
Louis Winsberg: acoustic guitar (1);
Alan Pasqua: piano (1, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11);
Kenny Werner: piano (2, 5, 8);
Larry Goldings: organ (1, 4, 10);
Michel Alibo: electric bass (7);
Jimmy Johnson: electric bass (1, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11);
Christian McBride: acoustic bass (2, 5, 8);
Peter Erskine: drums (1, 3, 4, 9, 10, 11);
Greg Hutchinson: drums (2, 5, 8);
Karim Ziad: drums (7);
Alex Acuna: percussion (1, 3, 11);
Luis Conte: percussion (4, 9, 10);
Christo Cortez: palmas (1);
Rhani Krija: percussion ( 7);
Miguel Sanchez: palmas and cajon (1);
Hector del Curto: bandoneon (6, 9, 12);
Marcia Dickstein: harp (2, 11);
Andy Narrell: steel drums (4);
Jesse Mills: violin (6, 9);
Arnaud Sussman: violin (6, 9);
Dov Sheindlin: viola (6, 9);
Fred Sherry: cello (6, 9, 12);
Gregg August: contrabass (6, 9);
Judd Miller: synthesizer programming (7, 9);
Sarah Koch: concert master (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Erica Korthals Altes: violin (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
David Peijnenborgh: violin (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Pauline Terlouw: violin (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Giles Francis: violin (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Petra Griffioen: violin (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Doesjka de Leu: violin (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Seija Teeuwen: violin (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Merijn Rombout: violin (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Herman van Haaren: violin (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Lucja Domski: violin (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Wim Kok: violin (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Elizabeth Liefkes-Cats: violin (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Marianne van den Heuvel: violin (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Laurie Vreeken-Bos: violin (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Mieke Honingh: viola (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Norman Jansen: viola (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Julia Jowet: viola (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Isabella Petersen: viola (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Alex Welch: viola (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Bastiaan van der Werf: cello (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Maarten Jansen: cello (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Wim Grin: cello (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Annie Tangberg: cello (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Erik Winkelmann: contrabass (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Arend Liefkes: contrabass (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Tjerk de Vos: contrabass (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Eddy Koopman: percussion (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Joke Schonewille: harp (2, 3, 5, 7, 8);
Hans Vroomans: piano (2, 3, 5, 7, 8)

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Fileserve / @ 192 K

Levity Trio & Toshinori Kondo: Chopin Shuffle (2010) [2 CD]

2011-11-19T07:34:00.000-08:00

Levity (Jacek Kita, Piotr Domagalski and Jerzy Rogiewicz) achieved an incredible feat of musical agility and imagination - they recorded a double album of pieces based on 24 preludes by Fryderyk Chopin. And while doing it, they retained a sense of humour, spark and kept the listeners glued to the speakers, guessing: is this jazz, rock, or some kind of outer space experience? Toshinori Kondo plays the electric trumpet with them, and other guests appear:
Gaba Kulka wrote the lyrics (in English and French) and sang on "Sans Voix", the piece inspired by Chopin's prelude no. 8 (you can hear a sample of the song in the player on the left).

Tracklist:
CD 1:
1. The Funniest Joke
2. Canis Major
3. Fashion Victims
4. Ticking Love
5. Kolberger
6. Grave
7. Riff?49 (Chant Of The Plants)
8. Sans Voix
9. Cieplo
10. Tempus Fungus
11. Elephant Vs Lion
12. 16 Tons?
CD 2:
1. Humans
2. Keya
3. Take Me To The Woods
4. Hommage A Emil Zatopek
5. A Miracle
6. Mchy
7. We Also Have Snow In Poland
8. In C
9. Hennessey
10. Passacaglia - Animals
11. Interludium
12. Finale - Spirits
Personnel:
Jacek Kita - fortepian, pianet, syntezatory, samplery
Piotr Domagalski - kontrabas, gitara basowa, szklanka, papier, odglosy paszcza
Jerzy Rogiewicz - perkusja
+
Toshinori Kondo - trabka elektryczna
Gaba Kulka - spiew (8)
Grzegorz Uzdanski - recytacja (9)
Raphael Roginski - gitara elektryczna (6)
Tomasz Duda - saksofon barytonowy (12-A, 10-B)
++++++++++++++++
+Fileserve / @ 320K+
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Houston Person with Ron Carter: Dialogues (2000)

2011-11-18T01:09:00.000-08:00

In the 1980s, tenor saxophonist Houston Person and bassist Ron Carter recorded a pair of unlikely but successful duo albums. Person, who has mostly been heard through the years with organ groups, piano trios, and accompanying the late singer Etta Jones, has a large tone worthy of Gene Ammons, while Ron Carter (who has played with everyone) clearly had a good time interacting with Person in the sparse format. In 1990, Person and Carter recorded their third duet album, and the results are at least as rewarding as their first two collaborations. On such songs as "Doxy," "Dear Old Stockholm," "On the Sunny Side of the Street," and "Mack the Knife," Person and Carter swing hard and sound at their most playful and creative in each other's company. They both sound inspired by this setting (where every sound counts) and play with full confidence; there is not a single hesitant moment. This is a particularly memorable and enjoyable effort that features the two musicians at their best. ~ Scott Yanow

Houston Person (born November 10, 1934) is an American jazz tenor saxophonist and record producer. Although he has performed in the hard bop and swing genres, he is most experienced in and best known for his work in soul jazz. Person is also known for his distinctive sassy sound and his expressive style of playing. He received the Eubie Blake Jazz Award in 1982.

Ron Carter (born May 4, 1937) is an American jazz double-bassist. His appearances on over 2,500 albums make him one of the most-recorded bassists in jazz history, along with Milt Hinton, Ray Brown and Leroy Vinnegar. Carter is also an acclaimed cellist who has recorded numerous times on that instrument.

He also has recorded a large body of classical work, and he contributed to the film score for Desperate Characters (1971).

Tracklist:
1. DOXY (S.Rollins) 9:21
2. I REMEMBER CLIFFORD (B.Golson) 7:20
3. DEAR OLD STOCKHOLM (Trad.) 5:07
4. MR. BOW-TIE (R.Carter) 6:29
5. ON THE SUNNY SIDE OF THE STREET (McHugh-Fields) 6:58
6. I FALL IN LOVE TOO EASILY (Cahn-Styne) 5:49
7. MACK THE KNIFE (K.Weill) 5:02
8. I GOT IT BAD (AND THAT AIN’T GOOD) (Ellington-Webster) 6:08
Personnel:
HOUSTON PERSON - tenor sax
RON CARTER - bass
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Hotfile / @320K

Michel Sajrawy: Writings On The Wall (2009)

2011-11-16T05:12:00.000-08:00

Guitarist Michel Sajrawy is a collection of seeming contradictions--he's a Christian Arab with an Israeli passport and a Palestinian identity, but his music cuts across cultural lines and barriers. Like fellow musicians John McLaughlin and Paul Winter, Sajraway explores a zone where electric jazz and ethnic music--in this case, the different styles native to the Middle East--overlap and combine. The jazz side of his personality comes not from fusion but from mainstream aspects of American jazz--six-stringers like Larry Coryell and John Scofield (both of whom have fusion backgrounds, by the way). Sajraway does indeed draw upon Middle Eastern music, albeit in a very subtle way, as Django Reinhardt worked his Gypsy/Rom heritage into his jazz guitar style. WRITING ON THE WALL is thoughtful, dreamily swinging post-bop jazz, though Sajraway gets a little funky in `60s Herbie Hancock fashion on "Ya Salam."

Personnel: Michel Sajrawy (electric guitar); Franck Dhersin (piano); Valeri Lipets (double bass); Evgeni Maistrovski, Ameen Atrash (drums).

Tracklist:
1. Bride Of The Galilee
2. Writings On The Wall
3. Ta Ti Ta Ta
4. Blue Sheep
5. Pink Inside
6. Ya Salam
7. Earth, Wind And Fire
8. Green
9. The Arch And The Branch
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Hotfile / @vbr

Herbie Hancock: Directstep (1979)

2011-11-15T07:16:00.000-08:00

He frequently visited Japan and had worked on the recording before this work was announced representative's work "Future Shock" in 1983 including famous "ROCKIT" that he had made become a hit. At that time, this album "DirectStep" is announced to the period (end in the 70's). The announced time is 1979. How does his fan catch this work?[E] as the state of the transition period and saturation is faced only a little ..listening... he exactly in this workHowever, his talent has already been admitted in the world. The time that had been called Electric Herbie might have been limited in the 70's. And, this work of him shows the tendency to be acknowledged like that also in Japan where I live. However, it is a little regrettable to bury this work in the soil in the history of his long music. As for his work in the 70's, the element of Jazz, Fusion, and Funk might be a little strong. And, the musician who was able to reproduce it faithfully by unifying the music to his creation to accomplish the music that he had wanted to achieve really might have been gathered. However, the work of the period is not tinpot music at all at that time. The tune also plays technically. We will be able also to enjoy it.

"Butterfly" It is collected to his work "Thrust" in 1974. And, it is one of the tunes that to be represented by live at this time of him. The speed of very much or the tune is performed late compared with StudioRecording. The arrangement that Version is very mellow is given. It is a performance that can be listened at ease enough. Perhaps, I think that making feelings of this tune is large to take an active part of the drum of Bass and Alphonse Mouzon of Paul Jackson. "Shiftless Shuffle" It is a tune that unites into one by the band to the sudden change into early Passage from the rhythm of the shuffle and is advanced. It is a tune from which the dash feeling comes out very much. However, this tune is collected to work "Mr.Hands" of him announced after this work. And, with the chance to listen to Version from which you are collected to "Mr.Hands", you might become the prisoner of the Version. The drum of Harvey Mason's might teach it. "I Thought It Was You" is collected to work "Sunlight" in 1978. It is a little long in Version of this work compared with the original. However, this tune is often live performed by his favorite tune. Feelings of this tune might be Funk. He is performing this tune with Jazz Musician"Kimiko Kasai" of Japan. Anyway, he liked this tune. However, I enjoyed this work not compared it with Prog rock.
This work is recorded in Japan on October 17, 1978 and October 18. And, please look at the title of this work. This work adopts the method of calling "Direct Cut Recording". The method of carving Vinyl the sound directly at once while performing might have been a situation in which the failure was not permitted. This work recorded by such a bold method is a work that is technical and overflows with the tension.

Tracklist:

01. Butterfly 7:55
02. Shiftless Shuffle 7:10
03. I Thought It Was You 15:30

Personnel:

Backing Vocals, Organ, Synthesizer – Webster Lewis
Bass – Paul Jackson (2)
Drums – Alphonse Mouzon
Guitar – Ray Obiedo
Percussion – Bill Summers
Saxophone – Bennie Maupin
Vocals, Electric Piano [Rhodes], Synthesizer – Herbie Hancock

============

Fileserve / 320K

Calvin Whittaker: Deep Inside (2007)

2011-11-14T05:38:00.000-08:00

Calvin P. Whittaker had always known, even from childhood, that he'd be involved in music somehow, though he initially thought he would wind up a singer. He loved to sing, and cites Michael Jackson as his first real musical influence.

Upon enrollment at Hyde Park High School in Chicago, Calvin immediately got caught up in the excitement of joining the school's chorus program. However, later on in his freshman year, his love for singing began to take a back seat to his desire to play an instrument. Upon recognizing this newfound desire, his mother recommended he take piano lessons, but while listening to some records in his music collection, Calvin heard a sound that he fell in love with- the simple but funky bass line to Gwen McRae's "Funky Sensation". Soon after, he began listening to the bass in other records, from Teena Marie's "Square Biz", to Tom Browne's "Thighs High", and said to himself, "That's what I wanna do". That year, Calvin received his first bass for Christmas.

As Hyde Park's chorus evolved into a gospel choir, it would seem that Calvin found himself in the right place at the right time. As the former bassist left the group to pursue other interests (the music staff were older, and had already graduated high school), the opportunity presented itself for Calvin to step into the role of a front line bassist, as well as the opportunity to learn all this beautiful new music. He truly enjoyed jamming in rehearsals, and was always looking forward to the next one. Calvin grew to believe that it was here that he truly began to evolve as a bassist. The gospel choir further evolved into a community choir, and for the next eleven years, Calvin would remain a faithful member. This role paved the way for Calvin to work with many other churches and community choirs throughout Chicago. Among them are True Light Church- Baptist, William Smith and the Renewed Voices for Christ, Christ Unity Evangelistic House of Prayer, Walter Howard and the Dedicated to Christ Ensemble, St. John Baptist Church, Prayer and Faith Outreach Ministries, and New Beginnings Full Gospel Church, just to name a few.

Feeling a lack of creative freedom, due in large part to the fact that most churches and outside choirs continue to perform covers of other peoples' music, Calvin decided that it was time for a change. He wouldn't stop playing for the church, because he was determined to continue to use his gift to praise God, but he desperately needed to explore his own creative flow. He logged on to Musicianfinder.com, a website created to help musicians locate one another in order to start up bands, put together shows, etc. Shortly thereafter, Calvin hooked up with Vince "The Funky Trumpeter" Abrams, and together these two formed The Jazz Matrix, a group of misfit musicians, capable of cranking out soothing grooves, mellow ballads, and all - out funk fests. In addition, through this union, he came to meet and work with many other musicians and groups throughout Chicagoland. Among the other bands that have come to trust and rely on Calvin for that deep bass pocket are Say Yes, Nikl Slik, Smooth & the Family, Randall and the Top of the Line, and in addition, he currently serves as music director for the aforementioned New Beginnings Full Gospel Church.

Calvin has been featured on three full recordings, and one single to date, including "Whatever You Want, God's Got It", by Walter Howard and the Dedicated to Christ Ensemble, "I Want To Sing For You", by Evangelist Jannice D. White, "Enter The Jazz Matrix", by The Jazz Matrix,(featuring some of his own compositions), and has just completed his solo debut, "Deep Inside".

Calvin has also performed at such events as the 1996 Gospel Festival in Chicago, The 1996 Gospel Music Workshop in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and Bobby Jones' Gospel Explosion in Nashville Tennessee, and in the summer of 2005, Calvin functioned as the front man in a group put together to back up the spoken word artists of Ear Candy and Ebony Energy at the Taste of Chicago. In addition he has performed in bands opening up for such mainstream artists as Sting, Annie Lennox, Brian McKnight, Angie Stone, and Anthony Hamilton.

Lastly, Calvin has performed at such venues as the House of Blues, the Bleu Jazz Cafe, the Regal Theater, the United Center, the Majestic Star Casino, the Tweeter Center(formerly the World Music Theater), the Negro League Cafe, Chicago's Petrillo Band Shell, and Chicago's world famous Checkerboard Lounge.

Calvin is destined not only to be a mainstay on the Chicago area music scene, but to go well beyond, becoming a positive force in the mainstream.

Tracklist:

1. My One Purpose (intro) 0:20
2. Deep Inside 4:48
3. Your Vibe 4:10
4. Standing Alone 3:11
5. Window To The World 6:23
6. Second Skin 3:57
7. What Goes Around 4:09
8. Like It Or Not 4:45
9. Dreamin' 4:24
10. A Letter To Selima 3:33
11. Closure 4:10
12. Deep Inside (outro) 0:29
==========

192K

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Live Music Pick for Sunday 11/13/11: Black Lips

2011-11-13T13:49:00.000-08:00

Band: Black Lips
Who Should Go: Hipster types
When: Sunday November 13, 2011
Where: Galaxy Theatre in Santa Ana
Cost: $20 (Tix)

Saturday Night Live Music Pick: Mouthbreathers

2011-11-12T16:32:00.000-08:00

Band: Mouthbreathers / The Spits
Who Should Go: Garage-Punk Fans
When: Saturday, November 12, 2011
Where: Nomad Gallery (1993 Blake Avenue)
Cost: $14 (Tix)
Other Noteworthy Shows:
Real Estate @ Echoplex (limited tix at door)
Dead Meadow @ The Satellite ($12)

Jan Akkerman:10.000 Clowns on a Rainy Day (1997)

2011-11-11T02:28:00.000-08:00

This two-CD live album from Dutch musician Jan Akkerman features tracks from his solo recordings, and material from his instrumental prog rock band Focus. In favor of 10,000 Clowns, the overall musical talent is astonishing. Jan's backing band is surprisingly good at handling the melodic, yet complex music, and the man himself is once again inspiring. However, most of the tracks on this live release are rather drawn out, and sober. For example, Ton Dijkman's lengthy drum solos tend to become aggravating after only a few listens, as do Manuel Hugas' well-performed but unentertaining bass solos. By no means is this a particularly weak album, though. Everyone's usual favorites are featured, including "Sylvia," "Focus 3," and "Eruptions." Considering that their studio counterparts are far better recordings, however, 10,000 Clowns is a rather pointless venture. - AMG

Tracklist:
Disc 1:
01. Intro (10,000 Clowns On A Rainy Day)
02. Puccini's Cafe
03. Skydancer
04. Eruptions
- Orpheo
- Questions Answers
- Distant Drums
- Puppilla
- Tommy
- Answers Questions
- The New Bridge
- Orpheo
05. Focus 2
06. Pre Madonna
07. Virgin Mary
08. Soft Focus
09. Pedestrians
- Miss En Scene
- Nico's Delight
- J's 2000 Flight
10. No Hang Ups
Disc 2:
01. On the table
- Sylvia
- Under The Table
- Spanish wood
- Antonio (drum solo)
- Leaving The Church Before Singin
- Manual (bass solo)
- On The Table
- Sylvia's Grandmother
02. Am I Losing You
03. Wake Up
04. Focus 3
05. Weedstalker
06. Akkerstones
07. Pool House
08. Quiet Storm
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320K
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Thursday's Live Music Pick: Electric Flower at Harvard and Stone

2011-11-10T15:16:00.000-08:00

Band: Electric Flower (which is Imaad Wasif and Josh Garza who drummed in Secret Machines)
Who Should Go: Fans of heavy psychedelic rock 'n' roll
When: Thursday November 10, 2011
Where: Harvard & Stone [5221 Hollywood Blvd]
Cost: Free

Buzz Bands has a download of their first single HERE

Dark: ST (1986)

2011-11-10T06:28:00.000-08:00

This is the original DARK, Mark Nauseef with singer Catherine Guard, percussionist Leonice Shinneman and Mark London Sims on bass, keyboards and percussion. Option Magazine found it a "challenging, complex, subtle and superlative work" while Forced Exposure simply called it "a very great slab of plastic." - from http://music.calarts.edu

Tracklist:
1. Du Reptile 5:54
2. Even Darker 4:41
3. Happy Days Slash Hate Slash Tatum 7:21
4. Him & Her 3:31
5. Heavy Metal 6:26
6. King Krad 2:00
7. Republic of Darkness 6:59
8. Brenner (For a Rapid Recovery) 2:30
9. The Spectator 3:30
All compositions by M. Nauseef, C. Guard, M. London Sims and L. Shinneman
Personnel:Mark Nauseef (Synthesizers, Drums, African Drums, Bells, Percussion and Vibraphone)
Catherine Guard (Voice and Bottle) - 1-7,9
Mark London Sims (Bass, Percussion, Gongs and Synthetizers) - 1-7,9
Leonice Shinneman (Percussion, Tabla, Kanjira, African Drums, Cymbals and Synthesizer) - 1-8
Walter Quintus (Metal) - 5
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320K
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Live Music Pick, Wednesday 11/9/11

2011-11-09T14:32:00.000-08:00

Band: M83 / Active Child
Who Should Go: Electro-y music fans
When: Wednesday November 9, 2011
Where: The Music Box
Cost: Sold Out ($45 - $50 on Craigslist)

Other Noteworthy Shows:
Dabrye @ Low End Theory ($10)
NO / Count Fleet @ The Satellite ($8)

Live Music Pick: Tuesday 11/8/11

2011-11-08T16:30:00.000-08:00

Band: Peter Wolf Crier
Who Should Go: Indie rock fans
Where: Bootleg Bar
When: Tuesday November 8, 2011
Cost: $12 (buy HERE)

Other Noteworthy Shows:
Nico Stai / Brian Cleary / Michael Feerick @ Lot 1 ($5)
First Aid Kit @ Troubadour (Sold Out)
Mates of State @ El Rey ($20)
Beyond This Place screening with live accompaniment by Sufjan Stevens & Raymonda Raposa ($28)

Live Music Pick: Monday November 7, 2011

2011-11-07T13:09:00.000-08:00

Band: The World Record (part of Hi Ho Silver Oh's residency)
Who Should Go: Local music fans, power pop lovers
Where: The Silverlake Lounge
When: Monday, November 7, 2011
Cost: Free

Other Noteworthy Shows:
Vanaprasta / Rocco DeLuca @ The Satellite (Free)
VV Brown @ Bardot (Free)
Little Hurricane @ Bootleg (Free)
The Chain Gang of 1974 @ The Echo (Free)

Live Music Pick: Wednesday November 2, 2011

2011-11-02T15:50:00.000-07:00

Band: Youth Lagoon
Who Should Go: Sensitive indie kids
When: Wednesday November 2, 2011
Where: The Echo
Cost: $10

Other Noteworthy Shows:
Tune-yards @ The Music Box ($20) [I'm not a fan, but most people seem to like them]
Wild Flag @ Troubadour (Sold Out) [I wasn't super impressed when I saw them at the Satellite, but I'll give them the benefit of the doubt]
Architecture in Helsinki @ El Rey

Live Music Pick: Monday 10/31/11

2011-10-31T14:37:00.000-07:00

Band: Zola Jesus
Who Should Go: People who like the dark
Where: Echoplex
When: Monday October 31, 2011
Cost: $15 (buy HERE)

Other Noteworthy Show:
Minus the Bear @ The Satellite (Sold Out)
The Field / Abe Vigoda @ Eagle Rock Center for the Arts ($12)
The Icarus Line @ The Echo (Free)

rhymes with spoon

2011-09-22T01:12:00.001-07:00

rhymes with spoon

Steve Khan: Parting Shot (2011)

2011-09-15T06:07:00.000-07:00

Parting Shot represents a most special moment for Steve, because it is the first time that he has felt ready to present an entire recording dedicated to Latin Jazz. Anthony Jackson, Manolo Badrena, and Steve are together yet again, alongside their bandmate of 20 years, Dennis Chambers, where, joined by master Latin musicians, Marc Quinones and Bobby Allende, they have crafted these 10 pieces of music. It is their hope that everyone will enjoy the recording to the fullest, Vaya!!!

Tracklist:
1. Chronology
2. Los Gaiteros
3. Change Agent (El Catalizador)
4. Bye-ya
5. Maria Mulambo
6. Influence Peddler (Traficante de Influencias)
7. When She s Not Here (Cuando Ella no Esta)
8. Blues Connotation
9. Zancudoville
10. Just Deserts
Personnel:
Steve Khan: guitar
Anthony Jackson: contrabass guitar
Dennis Chambers: drums
Manolo Badrena: percussion, voice (5, 10)
Marc Quinones: timbale, bongo, percussion
Bobby Allendes: conga
Rob Mounsey: keyboards (9), orchestrations (2, 4, 6 7)
Tatiana Parra: voice (6)
Andres Beeeuwsaert: voice (6)
Buy at Amazon
Uploading / Fileserve @ 320K

Shilts: Jigsaw Life (2008)

2011-04-18T00:44:00.000-07:00

Paul Shilts Weimar hails from London, England and has been playing saxophone since his early teens. His career has spanned all forms of jazz, soul, rock and pop music. He has toured all over the world and performed with a host of international artists, such as The Brand New Heavies, Jamiroquai, Rick Braun, Jeff Lorber, Peter White and many more. Eventually Shilts became the most visible and identifiable member of the UK jazz group Down To The Bone. In his eleven years with the group, he remained excited creating a separate identity for himself. He did this with his highly anticipated debut, See What Happens, which earned a 2001 Smooth Jazz Award nomination, followed by his second and highly acclaimed follow up, HeadBoppin. His third and latest release, Jigsaw Life, is a powerful showcase of Shilts' multitude of performing and composing talents, focusing not only on his tenor brilliance but also his instantly infectious melodies.

Tracklist:

01. Piece By Piece (5:01)
02. Back On The Hudson (4:30)
03. Smile For Me (4:07)
04. Broken Silence (5:35)
05. Too Close To The Edge (4:36)
06. Listen Up (5:54)
07. Outside The Box (4:44)
08. A Promise Is A Promise (4:39)
09. Ain't It Marvelous (4:49)
10. Time Gentlemen Please (4:38)

Jigsaw Life
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TEQ: Epilogue (2010)

2011-04-18T00:10:00.000-07:00

This kind of combination of synthesound and guitar reminds me uncannily of ELP or ELOY. The great combination of all tools in a not so simply structured piece shows that here are the real thing to progress (both in composition and in implementation). My compliments.

Tracklist:
01. Yin & Yang
02. Criminal Intent
03. Paul?s Revenge
04. In Between
05. Teq -a- Teq
06. 526
07. Indian Fake
08. Kitchen Emergency
09. Crazy Shice
10. Almost Disappeared
Personnel:
Robert Polikarpov - guitar
Artur Trzmielewski - bass
Paul Liksza - synthesizer
Bernt Kupper - drums
Epilogue
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David Wells: Friday Afternoon (2008)

2011-04-17T07:03:00.000-07:00

David Wells, a gifted Flugelhorn / Trumpet player from a small town in West Virginia has been living his dream of a career in music. Since the age of nine, David began learning the flugelhorn and trumpet with his professional debut at the age of thirteen. Heavily influenced by Louie Armstrong, Herb Alpert, and The Tijuana Brass, David evolved into an instrumental soloist with the capability of reaching his audiences on an intimate level.

Wells share’s his musical gift with the release of eight CD’s and with approximately 200 shows per year. In 2006, the release of “More Love, More Power,” brought national acclaim on smooth jazz radio and reached #13 on the R&R indicators. Additionally, his performance of Strawberry Letter #23 was charted at #10 in early 2007.

David’s career soared in 2007 after moving to #10 on the R&R indicators, and becoming endorsed with Conn and Selmer. His television and sports appearances included airing in Columbus Blue Jackets on ESPN2 and performing for the Cincinnati Reds. David Wells was also featured in several Christian music magazines and networks, WTAP- TV’s (NBC) “Daybreak,” and numerous Christian conferences.

David’s music is so engaging his holiday single, “Deck the Halls” hit #1 as the most added song on Smooth Jazz Radio Stations Nationwide such as Chicago, Miami, Orlando, NYC, and many more. He also hit #8 in the Top 10 most spin increase listing Nationwide.

In 2008 David was off to a strong start signing with Nuance Music Group based out of Long Island NY, then the release of “Friday Afternoon”. This full-length album will be released in February on both Nuance and Little Fish Records. “Friday Afternoon” is a collection of original instrumental pieces, which reaches out and touches the listener’s heart and soul.

Tracklist:

01. Friday Afternoon (Radio Mix) [3:34]
02. Disco Kid [3:48]
03. We're In This Love Together [3:58]
04. Bahama Blues [3:50]
05. Just The Two Of Us [3:50]
06. Caution [4:04]
07. You Are Good [4:16]
08. Great Mystery [6:04]
09. Backtrack [3:43]
10. Friday Afternoon [4:39]
Friday Afternoon
Hotfile / Depositfiles @ 320K

Apolo Bass: Tierras Lejanas (2011)

2011-04-15T08:03:00.000-07:00

Apolo Bass was born in Cameroon in 1965. He started practicing music in 1982 in Colegio Vogt where he became an orchestra Chief. Apolo Bass was during a few months, a bassist guitarist in the national orchestra of Cameroon. He had a privilege of working with many known artists.

Since 1991 in Spain, he studied Jazz in the ITM of Madrid, which is the National institute of bassist (USA). He was one of the students of one of the elite’s professor like Felix Santos. Since 2004, Apolo Bass directs his own music projects. He is assisted by a multicultural band.

This Bassist is one of the most innovative African musicians who bring (besides his music project Jazz Bass Africa) a type of music in which blends the Jazz with a variety of African music and Latin touch of elements. Apolo Bass is consolidating himself as a African Bassist with an emphasis of Jazz and world music.

The cultural side, passion, artistic and dedication interest of this artist are all the factors that got him to get an invitation to perform live in the 2 major’s television sites, TVE1 and TVE2. It is always a feeling of proud to know that his performance is always shown on television and that the people are enjoying it. Apolo Bass has been recognized as one of the 600 most representatives artist of the 5 continents.

Apolo Bass has participated in numerous festivals, by bringing a breath of fresh air wherever he performs, due to his great knowledge of music, to his talented and diverse music team that accompany him on his tours. He performed in many concerts in the whole national territory, and worked with many counties, Caja Madrid, Festivals etc…

Each Apolo Bass concert is an unique event, where each musician gives his best and unique art, making the spectator happy and enjoying the show. Actually, Apolo Bass is working on the promotion of his new album “ Tierras Lejanas”. It is a project where many known artist like Santiago Reyes, “El Padre” which is “The Father” of the Jazz Guitar in Spain.

Tracklist:
1. Victory 5:06
2. Madrid Jazz 5:14
3. Etnoblues 5:51
4. Tierras Lejanas 4:39
5. Miracle 4:44
6. Stop Injustice 4:25
7. Chromatic Day 5:15
8. Grand Mere Marcelline 2:02
9. Alice De Bafoussan 2:39
10.All Rhythms Together 3:48
11.Makossando 4:14
12.Yaunde Jazz 2:42
13.Promenade De Lete 2:50
14.Autumn Leaves 5:57
15.Caminando 5:42
--------------
Hotfile / Depositfiles @ vbr

Marcin Wasilewski Trio: Faithful (2011)

2011-04-15T02:44:00.000-07:00

This is a dazzling and beautifully-recorded third ECM album by Poland's Wasilewski Trio, one of the most resourceful piano trios of the present day. The wide-ranging repertoire includes five new tunes from the pen of Marcin Wasilewski and contemporary jazz classics by Paul Bley, Hermeto Pascoal, Ornette Coleman and more. Produced by Manfred Eicher, the very natural and warm-sounding album perfectly captures the trio's blend of energy and lyricism. There is space here for both the outgoing and the reflective, for profound composition and in-the-moment creativity.

Tracklist:
01. An den kleinen Radioapparat
02. Night Train To You
03. Faithful
04. Mosaic
05. Ballad Of The Sad Young Men
06. Oz Guizos
07. Song For Swirek
08. Woke Up In The Desert
09. Big Foot
10. Lugano Lake
Faithful
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Dave Grusin: An Evening With Dave Grusin (2011)

2011-04-13T23:43:00.000-07:00

GRP-co-founder Dave Grusin is certainly one of the top five jazz pianists worldwide. More popular are however his scores for films and television. He was awarded with an Oscar for best original score for The Milagro Beanfield War, as well received Oscar nominations for The Champ, The Fabulous Baker Boys, The Firm, Havana, Heaven Can Wait, and On Golden Pond. Other film scores he has composed include Tootsie, Where Were You When the Lights Went Out?, Three Days of the Condor, The Goonies, Tequila Sunrise, Hope Floats, Random Hearts, and The Heart is a Lonely Hunter.

In December 2009 Dave Grusin celebrated a breathtaking event at the Adrienne Arsht Center in Miami, Florida, An Evening With Dave Grusin. Backed by the 75-piece Henry Mancini Institute Orchestra Grusin performed a collection of 12 songs by Grusin, Leonard Bernstein, George Gershwin and Henry Mancini. Guest musicians were Jon Secada, Patti Austin, Monica Mancini, Gary Burton, Arturo Sandoval, Nestor Torres and Sammy Figueroa.

This remarkable event was recorded and will be simultaneously available on CD, Blu-ray Disc and ROBA iPadApp on Heads Up International, a division of Concord Music Group, April 26, 2011. The CD opens with Fratelli Chase, the most popular main theme of the Goonies. Grusin and the London Symphony Orchestra had re-recorded this piece for the album Cinemagic, so this version is the third installment. Certainly the most powerful with the support of a 75-piece orchestra.

On Golden Pond and New Hampshire Hornpipe are scores of the impressing film On Golden Pond featuring Henry Fonda, Jane Fonda and Katherine Hepburn. While the main theme is sensitive and intimate in describing the wonderful landscape, fills the second uplifting song the movie with energy and joy. Grusin comments: “In terms of using that amount of piano on a score this film was for me as a pianist the beginning of a new era.”

The jazz song Makin' Whoopee was highlighted by famous actress Michelle Pfeiffer sprawled over a piano in a red evening dress, in the 1989 film The Fabulous Baker Boys. Patti Austin reminds of this film scene during the intro, before she sings the song in her unsurpassable own way.

With the Porgy & Bess Medley Dave Grusin pays homage to George Gershwin as he did on many other albums. These timeless themes are designated for an orchestral interpretation. Same is to say about Leonard Bernstein's West Side Story. Cool with the legendary Gary Burton on vibes and the mesmerizing duet of Jon Secada and Patti Austin on Somewhere are highlights of this opus.

Suite from the Milagro Beanfield War is Dave Grusin's return to this wonderful movie score of Robert Redford's masterwork. Grusin had already published these songs on his album Migration in a jazz set with top-notch musicians. Now he presents the themes in a more coherent orchestral arrangement. Maria is another theme from West Side Story, which constantly influenced Dave Grusin's musical activity and found its echo in his tribute album West Side Story (1997). On that album Maria was performed by Jonathan Butler, Jon Secada's interpretation is a shade superior.

I Feel Pretty, another classical song of the West Side Story features Nestor Torres on flute in a phenomenal Latin festival. Latin percussion star Sammy Figueroa pushes the song with the perfect rhythm. “My idea for this rendition of Leonard Bernstein’s West Side Story was born of an old respect for his unique approach to what we have come to know as Broadway show music,” said Dave Grusin. “It is amazing that 50 years means nothing when dealing with something that is timeless in this way. It was hip in 1957…and it is hip now.”

Moon River by Johnny Mercer (lyrics) and Henry Mancini (music) was originally sung in the movie Breakfast at Tiffany's by Audrey Hepburn. On this event the song features singer Monica Mancini, a daughter of famed film composer Henry Mancini. The amalgamation of legacy and prowess. The private eye television serial Peter Gunn might be forgotten, but not Mancini's theme, which won an Emmy Award and two Grammys. An everlasting attractive title. Final tune on this respectable album is Memphis Stomp from the 1983 film, The Firm. A brilliant piece to showcase Grusin's virtuosity.

An Evening With Dave Grusin is an outstanding album with timeless themes delivered in a breathtaking orchestral brilliance.
Tracklist:

01. Fratelli Chase [3:43]
02. On Golden Pond/Hornpipe Medley [5:50]
03. Intro - Patti Austin [1:15]
04. Makin' Whoopee [4:13]
05. Porgy & Bess Medley [5:40]
06. Cool [5:09]
07. Somewhere [4:41]
08. Intro - Jon Secada [0:29]
09. Maria [4:48]
10. I Feel Pretty [6:36]
11. Moon River [3:55]
12. Peter Gunn [5:25]
13. Memphis Stomp [4:26]
An Evening With
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Mathias Eick: Skala (2011)

2011-04-12T23:41:00.001-07:00

Mathias Eick’s intensely melodic trumpet occupies the centre-stage in this album of self-penned tunes which will appeal to an audience beyond “jazz”. Against the powerful backdrops offered by his sleek, modern band, driven by two drummers, he delivers richly lyrical soliloquies. Although regarded as a 'jazz' album by virtue of its instrumentation (trumpet, saxophone, rhythm section, plus occasional harp and keyboards), trumpeter Mathias Eick 's second ECM recording as leader is as likely to draw inspiration for his fluent, accessible compositions from pop and classical music as from jazz.
True, Jan Garbarek's 'plaintive cry' is cited as among the sources of one of the album's most striking pieces, 'Edinburgh' (Tore Brunborg featured on tenor), but other tunes have their sources in rock music: 'Oslo', for example, is discernibly influenced by Radiohead's trademark melancholic soar over assertively scurrying drums; 'Joni' nods to the great Candian singer/songwriter via the sincerest form of flattery by using her hypnotically compelling, long-lined verse structure – centred on Andreas Ulvo's rolling piano – as the basis for one of the album's standout tracks.

Eick's trumpet style relies, in his words, on an attempt to 'create a tone that was a mix of all the sounds I loved' (among his trumpet models are Kenny Wheeler, Chet Baker and Tomasz Stanko), and there is indeed a haunting purity in everything he plays, particularly when set, as in the album's closer, 'Epilogue', against the vigorous drumming of Torstein Lofthus.

There are moments on this attractive, immediately appealing album when a ravishing soundscape (cf. another recent ECM album featuring Brunborg, Manu Katche's Third Round) cannot quite compensate for the lack of two of jazz's (arguably) defining features, grit and unpredictability, but overall, Eick admirers will find Skala irresistibly seductive.

Personnel:

Mathias Eick: trumpet, vibraphone, guitar, bass;
Tore Brunborg: tenor saxophone
Andreas Ulvo: piano
Morten Qvenild: keyboards
Audun Erlien: electric bass
Torstein Lofthus: drums
Gard Nilssen: drums
Sidsel Walstad: harp

Tracklist:

01. Skala
02. Edinburgh
03. June
04. Oslo
05. Joni
06. Biermann
07. Day After
08. Epilogue

Skala

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Georgij Garanyan and Ansambl Melodia: Labirint (1974)

2011-04-12T23:41:00.000-07:00

George Aramovich Garanyan (15 August 1934, Moscow - 11 January 2010, Krasnodar) was Soviet and Russian jazz, classical and pop saxophonist, artistic director of a number of musical ensembles, Honored Artist of Russia (1981), People's Artist of Russia (1993).
A member of the Composers' Union (since 1975), a member of the Union of Cinematographers (1996), laureate of State Prize of the Russian Federation (2000).

His musical career began in George Garanian Orchestra with Yuri Saulsky and Oleg Lundstrem . In the years 1966-73 he worked in the orchestra Vadim Lyudvikovskogo. In the years 1973-82 he supervised ensemble "Melody". Hallmark of the ensemble was the popular music of Soviet composers in jazz interpretation. His first record was sold in four million copies. Over the years of running Garanian ensemble has recorded 16 solo giants and 9 small plates (EPs). Garanyan sang the saxophone in the films "Diamond Hand","We're from Jazz", "Autumn Blues", a cartoon "Well, wait!", etc. He also conducted program "Jazz Club George Garanian" on Radio Russia - Culture and Jam -5" on the channel "Culture".

Garanyan won numerous international jazz festivals - in Prague, Bombay, Havana, Warsaw, Finland, Israel. He was the only jazz musician who had a season ticket - 3 concerts a year - in the Great Hall of the Moscow Conservatory. For the record a CD with the American group Oregon, where he acted as a conductor, Garanian was nominated for the award Grammy.

In addition, he composed music for several theatrical productions ("Mona" - Theatre Armen Jigarkhanyan , etc.), dozens of films, including such famous films as "Pokrovsky Gates", "Evening Labyrinth", "Recipe of her youth", "Magic Lantern", "A Girl from Rouen Nicknamed Doughnut", "Autumn Blues".

Tracklist:
1. Labirinth
2. Marina
3. Lenkoran
4. Fiery River
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Alex Skolnick Trio: Veritas (2011)

2011-04-11T23:54:00.000-07:00

Alex Skolnick is a true guitar hero. At sixteen years old, he joined a group of twenty- somethings who'd formed a thrash metal band called Testament. Alex stayed with the band through five critically acclaimed albums and countless tours with, among others, Slayer, Megadeth, Judas Priest, and White Zombie. After hearing and seeing one of Miles Davis electric bands on TV, Alex relocated to New York City to play and study jazz.

Alex Skolnick Trio (AST) was formed while Alex was earning his BfA in jazz from New School University in Manhattan. AST has been lauded by critics, fans and musical heroes alike ranging from Downbeat to Jazziz to the Village Voice to Kirk Hammet of Metallica. Veritas is the trio's 4th album and their first for Palmetto Records.

AST s newest release, Veritas, continues Alex's passion to trail-blaze through the landscape of pop, jazz, rock and metal to find common ground and push boundaries all in the name of great music. Veritas (Latin for 'Truth') has nine original tunes (all penned by Alex) and a 10th track that transforms a classic metal tune by Metallica, 'Fade to Black,' into a post-modern Jazz composition. Other standout tracks include Bollywood Jam a humorous mash-up of Bollywood soundtrack grooves and sophisticated improvisation, and the hard-hitting funk of 99/09, in which Alex imagines a collaboration between pop superstar Prince and jazz guitarist John Scofield.

Veritas will become a favorite of music fans that enjoy some of the pillars of Jazz guitar Scofield, Joe Pass, Wes Montgomery, Bill Frisell, Jim Hall and George Benson - but recast from an edgier and more energetic perspective. Veritas is poised to further push the boundary of contemporary Jazz as fans of harder rock and metal are fast becoming a significant new audience in Jazz. It is this fast-growing group of listeners that forms the core fan base of AST. They want truth in live performance, they want truth in great songs, they want Veritas.

Tracklist:
1. Panna
2. Bollywood Jam.
3. Song Of The Open Road
4. Veritas.
5. 99/09
6. Path Of Least Resistance
7. Alone In Brooklyn
8. The River Lethe
9. Flection
10. Fade To Black
11. Bollywood Jam (Remix)
Personnel: Alex Skolnick - guitars; Matt Zebroski - drums; Nathan Peck - upright bass.
Veritas
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Stanley Clarke: If This Bass Could Only Talk (1988)

2011-04-11T23:47:00.000-07:00

This was bassist Stanley Clarke's twelfth solo set, and one of his very few that would be recommended to jazz (as opposed to funk and R&B) listeners. On the instrumental set, Clarke's bass is featured in a wide variety of settings, including duets with tap dancer Gregory Hines and drummer John Robinson, a quartet with Wayne Shorter ("Goodbye Pork Pie Hat"), in a power trio with guitarist Allan Holdsworth and drummer Stewart Copeland, a piece with George Duke (on acoustic piano for a change) and soprano saxophonist George Howard, a quartet with the synthesizers of Steve Hunt, and "Funny How Time Flies," which has a colorful Freddie Hubbard trumpet solo. Throughout, Clarke's bass has plenty of solo space, and he shows how strong a player he can be when given decent material. - Scott Yanow (AMG)

Tracklist:
1 If This Bass Could Only Talk - Clarke 2:30
2 Goodbye Pork Pie Hat - Mingus 6:25
3 I Wanna Play for You - Clarke 3:27
4 Stories to Tell - Clarke 3:47
5 Funny How Time Flies (When You're Having Fun) - Harris, Jackson, Lewis 6:05
6 Workin' Man - Clarke 6:26
7 Tradition - Clarke 7:11
8 Come Take My Hand - Clarke 4:09
9 Bassically Taps - Clarke 3:15
If This Bass Could Talk
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Avishai Cohen: Aurora live at NDR Hamburg (2010)

2011-04-11T04:50:00.000-07:00

Aurora finds Avishai Cohen not only playing acoustic and electric bass, but also playing acoustic piano and electric keyboards and singing. In fact, he does a great deal of singing on this 2008 recording -- which will come as a surprise to those who think of Cohen as strictly an instrumentalist. Aurora is by no means an easy album to categorize; at the risk of oversimplifying things, one possible description could be "world jazz meets post-bop meets adult alternative." Jazz is a prominent ingredient on Aurora, but so are pop/rock and world music -- and Cohen gets a lot of inspiration from Middle Eastern, North African, and Spanish music. He sings in four different languages -- Hebrew, English, Ladino (the language of Spain's Sephardic Jews), and Spanish -- on an album that is dominated by original material but also contains some traditional Jewish songs. But as unpredictable as this 53-minute CD is, Aurora has a certain continuity. Cohen sounds like he knows exactly what he's doing, and he has sympathetic support that includes Amos Hoffman on oud (a traditional Middle Eastern lute) and Karen Malka on vocals (although Cohen is the main vocalist)." - by Alex Henderson, allmusicguide.com

Tracklist:
1. Seven Seas (Avishai Cohen)
2. Morenika (Trad)
3. Dreaming (Avishai Cohen)
4. In One (Avishai Cohen)
5. Aurora (Avishai Cohen)
6. Alfonsina y el mar (Ramirez/ Luna)
7. Para el monte me voy porque en monte no estoy (Trad.)
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Nana Vasconcelos: Sinfonia & Batuques (2011)

2011-04-11T00:20:00.000-07:00

One of the most complex albums we've heard in years from percussionist Nana Vasconcelos – a set that's still much more "batuques" than "sinfonia" – although there are some larger arrangements on the record at times! Nana's definitely got some help from a range of musicians for the record – none of the sparer, nearly-solo modes of other sets – but there's still a nicely earthy execution to most numbers, especially once the record gets going – a great sense of space and soundplay, really reaching back to some of Vasconcelos' best 70s moments, but complicating things up nicely too. Titles include "Santa Maria", "Po De Chineto", "Chorrindo", "Aquela Do Milton", "Batuque Nas Aguas", and "Menininha Mae".

Tracklist:
1- Menininha Mae
2- Batuque nas Aguas – Aquela do Milton
3- Mistйrio
4- Pra Elas
5- Sinfonia & Batuques
6- Pedalando
7- Lamentos
8- Chorrindo
9- Pу de Chinelo
10- Santa Maria
11- Caneгo para Nanile
12- Recife Nage
NANA VASCONCELOS - SINFONIA & BATUQUES
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Stanley Clarke: 1 2 To the Bass (2003)

2011-04-10T00:20:00.000-07:00

Stanley Clarke is without doubt a phenomenally talented bassist but has not done much to showcase this ability on his own recordings since the late '70s. You can chalk that up mostly to Clarke's propensity for trite, pop-oriented material that does little to illuminate his great technical command of the instrument or to engage the listener either melodically or lyrically. 1, 2, to the Bass is a step in the right direction with a more jazz-oriented feel and some interesting guest appearances. Rapper Q-Tip gets things off to a nice start on the title track which reimagines '90s hip-hop jazz as "quiet storm" R&B. "Simply Said" is reminiscent of Sting's more fusion-style originals with flutist Hubert Laws on a nice melodic hook. There is also an inspired reworking of the R&B classic "Where Is the Love" featuring Glenn Lewis and Amel Larrieux. Later on, if "Los Caballos (The Horses)" sounds a little too much like Madonna's "Borderline," and Oprah Winfrey's reading of Maya Angelou's "I Shall Not Be Moved" seems a bit out of place on an album that includes a song titled "Just Cruzin'," there's at least the "Rock It"-styled electro-disco-funk of "Bout the Bass." And don't forget the monstrous "freak" funk cover of "Hair" that almost redeems everything guitarist Joe Satriani has ever done. Perhaps not the exhilarating breakthrough one would hope, 1, 2, to the Bass is nonetheless a very exciting return to form. - AMG

Tracklist:
1 1, 2, To the Bass - Clarke, McKinley, Q-Tip (Fareed 5:55
2 Simply Said - Clarke 4:34
3 Where Is the Love? - MacDonald, Salter 4:06
4 Anna (She Loves the Good Life) - Clarke 5:01
5 Los Callabos (The Horses) - Clarke 4:41
6 Just Cruizin' (En Hommage - Wes Montgomery/George Benson/Pat Martino) - Clarke 4:26
7 'Bout the Bass - Clarke, McKinley 7:32
8 Hair - Graham 5:14
9 Touch - Clarke 6:04
10 All the Children/Todos los Ninos - Clarke 4:56
11 I Shall Not Be Moved - Angelou 6:37
12 Shanti Peace Paz - Clarke, Subramaniam 5:53
1 2 to the Bass
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Nguen Le: Songs of Freedom (2011)

2011-04-08T23:03:00.000-07:00

Nguyen Le takes the title of his latest album from one of his favourite songs of freedom: Bob Marley's "Redemption Song" sits alongside hits from Led Zeppelin, Janis Joplin, Stevie Wonder, Eric Clapton and the Beatles, whose "Eleanor Rigby" and "Come Together" frame the album - credit where credit's due, these artists wrote some of the finest songs in recent memory. But Le takes the liberty to unearth these icons of pop and rock history from their dust (or gold) covered depths and brings them to the present day and to the global village, with the help of his own formidable musical prowess as well as many exceptional guests from all over the world who provide support in his band.
Together with Le, Illya Amar (marimba, vibraphone and electronics), Linley Marthe (electric bass) and Stephane Galland (drums) form the dynamic basic framework of these transformations, continually pushing forwards rhythmically but remaining easy going and light. The singers Youn Sun Nah, Dhafer Youssef, David Linx, Ousman Danedjo, Himiko Paganotti, Julia Sarr and the percussionists Karim Ziad, Stephane and Prabhu Edouard, Hamid El Kasri and Keyvan Chemirani and the saxophonists David Binney and Chris Speed give each song their own personal stamp. Le brilliantly arranges these musicians, placing them in suitable yet always surprising situations. On several occasions he converses with his guests, so to speak, with brief self-composed intros which offer the perfect introduction.
As a result, this isn't an album featuring standard cover versions. Instead, familiar melodies are introduced with great respect to pulsating new sound streams from all over the world. "Music is like a bird. Once it has been released it will fly in any sky. The earth becomes rounder and rounder and invites all cultures to an exchange and to immerse themselves in one another. This leads to the freedom to make these songs one's own: to still lovingly play the original melodies yet with the boldness of our own arrangements which celebrate the realm of imaginative power and fantasy," says Nguyen Le.
These poetic words are not too far-fetched, and this is undoubtedly proven on the album. Here we can hear how the soul of Stevie Wonder's "I Wish" immerses totally harmoniously in Caribbean-Asiatic sound worlds, and how Janis Joplin's "Mercedes Benz" rolls along not only Californian but also Indian, Japanese and French paths. Led Zeppelin's "Whole Lotta Love" is also transformed in to a rousing whirlwind, with the band being led by the eternally and indisputably precise Youn Sun Nah who is here surprisingly rocky and irresistibly intense.
"Come Together" is therefore not simply the last track of the album, but represents what the album is about. With these 15 songs of freedom, Nguyen Le impressively brings together a wide and previously unheard range of individuals and sounds from various different origins - West merges with East, North with South, great vocals with instrumental virtuosity and the melodic legacy of the past with the sound of the future.

Tracklist:
01. Eleanor Rigby (7:02)
02. I Wish (5:45)
03. Ben Zeppelin (0:51)
04. Black Dog (6:20)
05. Pastime Paradise (8:01)
06. Uncle Ho's Benz (0:40)
07. Mercedes Benz (6:23)
08. Over The Rainforest (0:36)
09. Move Over (6:59)
10. Whole Lotta Love (5:15)
11. Redemption Song (5:27)
12. Sunshine Of Your Love (4:44)
13. In A Gadda Da Vida (5:22)
14. Topkapi (0:43)
15. Come Together (5:47)
Personnel:
Nguyen Le: guitars, computer
Illya Amar: vibraphone, marimba, electronics
Linley Marthe: electric bass & vocals
Stephane Galland: drums

Guests: Youn Sun Nah, Dhafer Youssef, David Linx, Ousman Danedjo, Julia Sarr, Himiko Paganotti, David Binney, Chris Speed, Prabhu Edouard, Stephane Edouard, Karim Ziad, Guo Gan, Hamid El Kasri, Keyvan Chemirani

Songs Of Freedom
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Balkan Horses Band: Part 2 (2004)

2011-04-08T00:41:00.000-07:00

Recorded live June 2001 at the Antique Theatre, Plovdiv, Bulgaria.
This second CD to the concerts given in Plovdiv has more of a jam session feeling about it.

Personnel:

Tamara Obrovac (Croatia) - voice, wooden flute
Vlatko Stefanovski (Macedonia) – guitar, composer
Theodosii Spassov (Bulgaria) - kaval, voice, composer
Aleksandar Sanja Ilic (Serbia) – piano, composer
Kostas Theodorou (Greece) - double bass, composer
Emil Bucur (Romania) - panpipe
Hakan Beser (Turkey) - percussion
Stoyan Yankoulov (Bulgaria) - tupan, drums, composer
Krassi Jeliazkov (Bulgaria) - acoustic guitars, tamboura
Tracklist:
1. Black Mile 7:36 (Obrovac)
2. Danube’s Bank 16:10 (Balkan Horses Band)
3. Bridges 4:35 (Theodorou)
4. Kostas from Skidra 11:01 (Spassov)
Contact, Part 2
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Balkan Horses Band: Contact, Part One (2003)

2011-04-08T00:19:00.000-07:00

During the last few decades the existence of dictatorships and totalitarian rule in the countries of the region raised confrontation in a political, economical and cultural aspect. As a result the peoples of the Balkan Peninsula separated themselves in closed systems, not knowing the cultural and public life of their neighbors. We witnessed the bursting genocide on the territory of former Yugoslavia, exercising strong destabilizing influence over the relations between different ethnic groups in the other Balkan states, as well. In spite of these somewhat artificially created clashes the Balkans continue to be a united field of culture and spirit, the most explicit expression of which we find in the sphere of arts and most of all music.

UNESCO’s proclaiming the year of 2000 as the International Year of Culture and Peace inspired AQUA STORM Music and Performing Arts Agency to be the initiator of the idea of creation of a Balkan Cultural Project in the field of Ethno and World Music. Nine of the most distinguished Ethno, Rock, Jazz, Ambience and New Age composers and performers participated in the Balkan Horses Band International orchestra.

Personnel:
Tamara Obrovac (Croatia) - voice, wooden flute
Vlatko Stefanovski (Macedonia) – guitar, composer
Theodosii Spassov (Bulgaria) - kaval, voice, composer
Aleksandar Sanja Ilic (Serbia) – piano, composer
Kostas Theodorou (Greece) - double bass, composer
Emil Bucur (Romania) - panpipe
Hakan Beser (Turkey) - percussion
Stoyan Yankoulov (Bulgaria) - tupan, drums, composer
Krassi Jeliazkov (Bulgaria) - acoustic guitars, tamboura
Tracklist:
01 – BALKAN 2000 ( 9.20)
02 – TOUCH THE MOON (8.06)
03 – FRIEND’S SONG (8.42)
04 – GYPSY SONG (7.00)
05 – VIKI’S SONG (5.18)
06 – ANATHEMA (11.59)
07 – KALAJDZISKO ‘ORO (10.02)
Contact: Part One
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Jake Andrews: Livin' in the Grave (2011)

2011-04-07T02:55:00.000-07:00

Andrews began playing guitar at age 5, taught by his father, John Andrews of the 60s Roots Band Mother Earth with noted singer Tracy Nelson. At an early age, he began attending shows at the legendary blues venue, Antone's, to see blues legends like BB King and Albert Collins perform. At age 8, Andrews first went onstage to play guitar with Albert King. Impressed with the young guitarist, King invited him to play with him for his entire second set. That moment sparked Andrews' young career, and he continued to hone his skills in the clubs of Austin, Texas regularly performing with local musicians such as Jimmie Vaughan and soaking up the sounds of the music-filled city. First known as a child guitar prodigy, Andrews has evolved into a skillful guitarist, singer and song-writer.

Andrews has performed with music giants such as BB King, Buddy Guy, and Albert King. He has also performed at major festivals such as the San Francisco Blues Festival and Madison Blues Festival with Ray Charles. He has been featured on CBS, Austin City Limits, Texas Monthly, Guitar Player, and Vintage Guitar among numerous other publications. He has toured the US and Europe extensively.

Tracklist:
1. Solid (feat. Eric Johnson) (08:56)
2. Livin' in the Grave (04:10)
3. Easy to Come By (05:17)
4. High Flyin' (03:57)
5. Love in Me (04:51)
Livin' in the Grave
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Eliane Elias: So Far So Close (1989)

2011-04-07T00:38:00.000-07:00

Eliane Elias' debut for Blue Note is a bit of a disappointment. Having established her credentials as a fine acoustic pianist, she switched back to her less personal synthesizer work and contributed some rather mundane wordless vocals. The music (which includes some solos from tenor saxophonist Michael Brecker and Randy Brecker on flugelhorn) is not terrible, but it lacks a sense of adventure and sounds as if potential radio airplay was its main goal.

Tracklist:

01. At First Sight (4:53)
02. Bluestone (5:33)
03. Barefoot (4:40)
04. Nightimer (6:10)
05. Still Hidden (1:49)
06. So Far So Close (5:50)
07. Straight Across (to Jaco) (5:44)
08. With You In Mind (2:24)
09. Two Way Street (4:32)
So Far So Close
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Steps Ahead: Holding Together (2005)

2011-04-06T06:24:00.000-07:00

In the summer of 1999, Steps Ahead founder/vibraphonist Mike Mainieri joined Eliane Elias, Bob Berg, Marc Johnson and Peter Erskine for a reunion tour of Europe. They recorded several of those shows but Mainieri didn't listen to the tapes for two years. He eventually did, and the result is the two-CD set Holding Together (N.Y.C.). The musicians perform the tunes with great sensitivity to one another, both as an ensemble and in solo spotlights. "Uncle Bob" just swings along, while Mainieri's gliding vibes impart an almost magical quality to a lovely version of Ellington's "In a Sentimental Mood," and "The Time Is Now" is a 22-minute-plus opus that gives everyone a chance to shine. There are too many high points on this solid set to mention, but it should be noted that Berg's playing is vigorous and inventive throughout and provides a poignant reminder of the profound loss the jazz world suffered when he was killed in a car accident in December 2002.

Personnel: Bob Berg (saxophone); Eliane Elias (piano); Mike Mainieri (vibraphone); Marc Johnson (double bass); Peter Erskine (drums).

Tracklist:
DISC 1
1.Bowing to Bud (Elias)
2.Copland (Mainieri)
3.Autumn Rose (Erskine)
4.Pools (Grolnick)
5.All the Things You Are/Soul Eyes (Hammerstein/Kern)
6.Uncle Bob (Grolnick)
DISC 2
1.Dee Minor (Mainieri)
2.The Time Is Now (Wlias)
3.In a Sentimental Mood (Ellington)
4.Friday Night at the Cadillac Clab (Berg)
Holding Together
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Christian Muenchinger: The Glance (2011)

2011-04-06T00:41:00.000-07:00

Saxophonist Christian Muenchinger was born in Zurich in 1969. He studied first at the Jazz School of Zurich and changed later to Bern, where he received his diploma. He has studied with Andy Scherrer and has participated in workshops with Joe Lovano, Jerry Bergonzi, David Liebman, Billy Brooks and Joe Haider. The saxophonist has played with several well known musicians like Clark Terry, George Robert, Jimmy Woode, Barry Finerty, John Engels, Franco Ambrosetti, George Gruntz as well as with vocalist Sandy Patton. He was a member of the SJS Big Band, with whom he has performed at Birdland in New York and at the “Blues Alley” in Washington DC. With his own quartet, he has toured Europe and has himself been a member of the Zurich Jazz Orchestra. This album is his third under his own name. After The quintet recording “five of a kind” (1995) and an album with a quartet “live at moods!” (1999) for the German record label “Mons Records”. The record “The Glance” is his latest album under his own name.

Tracklist:

01. Aeolian Walk
02. Aglaja Fechado pra Balanco
03. The Glance
04. Rent Party
05. Dr. Freud
06. Unforced Errors

Personnel: Christian Munchinger(ts), Christoph Stiefel (p), Andreas Zitz (b), Pius Baschnagel (ds)

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Gerald Veasley: Electric Mingus Project (2011)

2011-04-05T00:07:00.000-07:00

A release of re-imagination of works written by acclaimed jazz composer Charles Mingus. This project features a collection of well-known Mingus pieces performed using cutting edge instruments.

Tracklist:

01. Blue Cee [6:13]
02. Interlude-Let My Children Hear Music (feat. Kevin Wayns) [1:35]
03. Haitian Fight Song [5:44]
04. Better Get Hit In Your Soul [6:27]
05. Duke Ellington's Sound of Love [9:06]
06. Interlude-Sounds (feat. Kevin Wayns) [1:03]
07. Canon [11:03]
08. Work Song [6:30]
09. Eighteen Sixty-Three [6:17]
10. Interlude-Color and Slavery (feat. Kevin Wayns) [1:12]
11. Blues For Mingus [7:09]
12. Boogie Stop Shuffle [4:46]
Personnel:
Gerald Veasley - Bass,
Chris Farr - Saxophones,
John Swana - Trumpet,
Tony Miceli - Vibraphon,
Donald Robinson - Keyboards, Organ,
James Rouse, Richard Waller - Drums.
Electric Mingus Project
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Klaus Doldinger's Passport: Blues Roots (1991)

2011-04-04T02:22:00.000-07:00

Passport was initiated in 1970 as a jazz fusion experimental group, similar to American groups such as Weather Report. The ensemble's first recording was issued in 1971, and through the 1970s had a constantly revolving membership, though it continued to release albums frequently. The group was active into the 2000s, recording for Atlantic Records and Warner Bros. Records among others.
Klaus Doldinger's Passport (Blues Roots) Featuring Johnny Copeland is something different than the other Passport releases of the early 90's. It has an unmistakable Gospel influence and has a number of tunes with vocals.

Tracklist:

01 - Blues Roots
02 - Inner City Blues
03 - Lousiana Sunset
04 - Time Signal
05 - Born Under A Bad Sign
06 - Blue Avenue
07 - Goodbye Pork Pie Hat
08 - How Did You Know
09 - Love Utopia
10 - Idgo Now
Personnel:
Klaus Doldinger - saxophone, flute
Roberto di Giola - piano
Peter O'Mara - Guitar
Joshen Schmidt - Bass
Ernst Stroer - percussion
Wolfgang Haffner - Drums
Johnny "Clyde" Copeland - Vocal, Guitar
Blues Roots
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Eliane Elias: Cross Current (1988)

2011-04-03T23:54:00.000-07:00

Pianist Eliane Elias' second of two Denon CDs recorded before she hooked up with Blue Note is a lesser-known but worthy session. Elias is mostly featured in a trio with bassist Eddie Gomez and drummer Jack DeJohnette performing originals, a pair of Charles Mingus compositions ("Peggy's Blue Skylight" and "East Coastin'"), "Beautiful Love," "When You Wish Upon a Star" and Bud Powell's "Hallucinations." Elias was quickly developing into a strong modern mainstream pianist. The concluding number ("Coming and Going") was written by her grandmother in 1927 at age 12 and features Elias with Gomez, drummer Peter Erskine, guitarist Barry Finnerty, percussionist Cafe and nine singers (including a few family members). Well worth searching for. - Scott Yanow
Tracklist:

1. Hallucinations
2. Cross Currents (Elias)
3. One Side of You
4. East Coasting
5. Comin' and Goin'
6. Campari & Soda
7. Beautiful Love
8. Impulsive
9. When You Wish upon a Star
Personnel:
Jack DeJohnette - Drums
Peter Erskine - Drums, Vocals
Eddie Gomez - Bass
Randy Brecker - Vocals
Cafe - Percussion
Eliane Elias - Piano, Vocals
Doris Eugenio - Vocals
Barry Finnerty - Guitar (Acoustic), Vocals
Cross Currents
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Pasqualino Ubaldini: Girovaghi notturni (2010)

2011-04-03T09:13:00.000-07:00

"Girovaghi notturni" is born from the demand to describe the world of the outcasts, of the cultural intolerances, and of the mental distances, that until they too often flow in episodes of violence, to which must not accustom us!! The difference and I exchange him/it they are between the first forms of growth and sharing. The fear of the different one produces isolation, closing and atrofizzazione of the thought. I have wanted to tell this, me that I live in Rome, and that I frequently come upon me in episodes that represent such regression. Have wanted to simply tell him/it, and still with my tools, classical guitar, Arabic oud and bouzouki, that testify the desire and the beauty of the to acquire, not only play, but ways of way of living and experiences! I have imagined a zingarata, a nighttime vagabondage, a journey that should accompany every human being in his/her natural development. I have thought at night about this trip in moments and situations in which the look mostly results focused toward some shades that, magically they take life, and they tell his/her own realities, his/her own trips and his/her own histories. All have a history to tell! A crossed journey! A suitcase that you/they bring behind him. His/her own life. Surely sort of are wrong, but not for this deprived of emotions and feelings and not calpestabile! A thought to that "Wander about nighttime", that sink the footsteps in the wet pavements as me, or to the edges of a park, above a bench, in a glass of wine, To the boys that play, to whom has found or lost his/her love, to whom hopes in a pleasant I meet, to who incazzato is, to whom is alone but has always been him/it, All have a history, all must respect her/it! ... From here they begin the most beautiful trips!

Tracklist:
1 Stazioni metropolitane 9:46
2 Incontri 4:37
3 Gatti randagi (Agebz) 7:16
4 Girovaghi notturni (Alif) 3:51
5 Strade deserte 5:03
6 Il sogno del Clochard 4:53
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European Jazz Trio: Vienna Forest (2010)

2011-04-01T23:35:00.000-07:00

Frans van der Hoeven (bass), Roy Dackus (drums) and Marc van Roon (piano) make up this multi-genre trio that straddles the boundaries between classical, jazz, pop and film scores. Adopting everyone from Beethoven to Tchaikovsky, the group smoothes out the various pieces to add a personal touch.

Popular in Japan, the group includes well-known pieces, such as Antonin Dvorak’s “4 Romanticke kusy op.75-4,” from his Romantic Kiss series and George Frideric Handel’s “Violin Sonata op. 1-13.”

The trio, who has released more than 15 albums together, is a well-oiled collaboration between artists. Unfortunately, at times, numbers blur together to form a somewhat bland — albeit beautiful — blend of music.

Tracklist:

01. Tempest 4:01
02. Beethoven Symphonie Nr. 7 4:34
03. Thais Meditation 5:03
04. Frau 5:02
05. Sentimental Waltz 5:41
06. Love Greetings 4:46
07. Blue Danube 6:28
08. Beethoven Sinfonie Movement 2 4:05
09. Henderubaiorin sonata 3:20
10. Wiener Blut 6:00
11. Vier romantische Stucke 5:58
12. Herenitee 4:26
13. Mathew's passion 5:23
Personnel:
Marc van Roon on Piano,
Frans van der Hoeven on bass
Roy Dackus on drums
Vienna Forest
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Mark Harrison Quintet: Just Add Water (2010)

2011-04-01T01:07:00.000-07:00

The Mark Harrison Quintet raise the bar again with their third CD release, "Just Add Water". Keyboardist/composer Mark Harrison creates a very distinctive contemporary jazz and funk mix, again assisted by some of L.A.'s finest players. From the hard funk of "Get In Line", to the gentle lyricism of "Conundrum", to the joyous shuffle groove of "So Far So Good"...this CD truly has something for all fans of contemporary jazz!

Mark’s goals for the Quintet and for their latest CD are very simple. “I want to chart our own territory in the jazz world, by creating substantive and interesting music that is accessible to the ear of the listener”, says Mark, “I’m thrilled when people come to our shows who are not diehard jazz fans, and yet they still feel our grooves and hum our tunes when they leave”.

Tracklist:
01. Get In Line [04:51]
02. So To Speak [05:27]
03. Conundrum [06:05]
04. So Far So Good [06:11]
05. Just Add Water [06:57]
06. Gotta Keep Movin' [06:03]
07. Snakes And Ladders [05:26]
08. Sinaloa Shuffle 2010 [05:26]
09. Take My Hand [04:12]
10. Pacific Time [04:48]
Personnel:
Mark Harrison - piano, organ and synthesizers,
Rick Rossi - saxophones,
Mark Chosak - guitar,
Steve Billman - bass,
Matt Starr - drums.
Just Add Water
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Lele Rambelli: No Boundaries Music (2010)

2011-03-31T23:38:00.000-07:00

Lele Rambelli is Italian jazz and rock guitarist.His compositions are very well tought out and complex, and his playing is fantastic.

Tracklist:

1 TE QUIERO (CON TANTA PASION) 6:11
2 STOMP THE TRACK! 4:31
3 JOYOUS 3:51
4 COLOSSEUM (THE GAME OF LIFE) 2:47
5 ARRIVEDERCI! 3:54
6 THE MOON AND THE OCEAN 5:24
7 PURPLE CROSS 4:11
8 Dancando com voce 4:04

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Lenny White, Buster Williams, George Colligan, Steve Wilson: Hancock Island - The Music Of Herbie Hancock (2008)

2011-03-30T23:54:00.001-07:00

Shortly after jazz legend Herbie Hancock picked up his Album of the Year Grammy back in February of 2008 for The Joni Letters, a stellar, swinging crew of four began a week-long engagement at the Iridium in midtown Manhattan in which they went about interpreting classic Hancock compositions. The gig was a rousing success and the quartet - veterans Lenny White on drums and Buster Williams on bass along with young lions George Colligan on piano and Steve Wilson on saxophone - would subsequently go into the studio to document their remarkable chemistry and ingenious takes on these familiar Herbie tunes for Chesky Records.

Tracklist:

1 Cantaloupe Island 07:33
2 Fat Albert Rotunda 06:01
3 Butterfly 06:15
4 Fingerpainting 06:07
5 Chameleon 09:44
6 Rockit 05:34
7 Watermelon Man 07:37
8 Maiden Voyage 07:01

Personnel:
Lenny White - drums
Buster Williams - bass
George Colligan - electric piano
Steve Wilson - soprano & alto saxophones
Hancock Island: Music of Herbie Hancock
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Giuseppe Mirabella: Moods (2008)

2011-03-30T23:54:00.000-07:00

Giuseppe Mirabella was born in Enna in 1972. He began studying guitar by himself and later studied harmony with pianist Giovanni Mazzarino.

In 1999, he began courses at Umbria Jazz in Perugia, he won a scholarship at the prestigious Berklee School of Boston. On the same occasion was further honored as best guitarist of the courses.

In 2001 he obtained a degree in Computer Engineering from the University of Catania. In the same year he won the "International Competition EDDIE LANG", the highest award in Italy for young jazz guitarists and played as a guest on RAI DUE.

He has played and collaborated among others with Reggie Johnson, Adam Nussbaum, Ira Coleman, Adrian West, George Robert, Tom Kirkpatrick, Dado Moroni, Francesco Cafiso, Franco Cerri, Gianni Basso, Giovanni Mazzarino, Dino Rubino, Stefano Di Battista, Falvio Boltro.

He has played in some of the most important Italian jazz festivals: Euro Ivrea Jazz Festival (2009), Bulwark of the citadel of Modena (2008), Festival of Busto Arsizio (2009), Palazzo Ducale in Genoa (2008), Summer 2008 Bari, Pavia 2008, Victoria Jazz Festival 2009.

He teaches jazz guitar at the C.E.S.M. Catania and collaborates with the Faculty of Engineering, University of Catania where he teaches seminars and related audio signals and Computer Music.

He is also professor of jazz guitar and music together in the summer seminar of the festival SQUARE JAZZ along with musicians such as Adam Nussbaum, Maria Pia De Vito, Marco Panascia, Giovanni Mazzarino, Orazio Maugeri.

Tracklist:

1 Hard Run 4:52
2 Cry Me A River 8:18
3 Recordame 4:50
4 Time After Time 6:42
5 Jesse's Groove 5:23
6 As I Am 7:20
7 Just In Time 8:53
8 What A Surprise! 8:15

Total time 54:33

Personnel: Giuseppe Mirabella guitar, Angelo Cultreri organ, Giuseppe Tringali drums, Dino Rubino trumpet on track 4.

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Ignacio Ouzande: ST (2011)

2011-03-30T00:34:00.000-07:00

Ignacio Ouzande is a bass player from Argentina. His album is created with different influences. You can listen to some jazzy tunes, some funk, rock, etc. Created using bass lines, all arrangements are originated from the same themes, on some tunes you can listen to some sound effects and, in others, uploaded digitally in one or two octaves. Only one composition involves a Spanish guitar. The lyrics of the song "The art that you hide" was written by a beloved musician's childhood friend, Guillermo Gulli.

Tracklist:

1 Lo que viene 3:54
2 Un 24 de noviembre 4:23
3 Mmm uau 5:09
4 Bipolar 4:39
5 Reflexion 1:18
6 Ansiosito 3:10
7 Sacumbide 5:22
8 Astormath 6:07
9 El cortito 1:54
10 El arte que escondes 3:51
11 Nachos tune 3:07
12 Shazz-an 5:32
13 De chiripa 7:32
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Rick Zunigar: Twilight (2009)

2011-03-29T23:48:00.000-07:00

For jazz guitarist Rick Zunigar, music has consistently been an integral part of his life. Born in Queens, N.Y. of proud parents native to Puerto Rico, Rick was immersed in an environment of cultural and musical diversity. Rick’s gift for music originated from his mother who sang and performed at Radio City Music Hall. Rick grew up listening to salsa and jazz, and within him grew a desire to learn the art of music. It wasn’t long before Rick discovered his true love: the guitar. The inspiration to play the guitar came from Wes Montgomery and Joe Pass. By the age of seventeen Rick had already hit the professional scene, building an enormous track record that now includes performances, recordings, and tours with many music greats like Freddie Hubbard, Cal Tjader, Jimmy Smith, Willie Bobo, Stevie Wonder and many more. Rick’s extensive work has exposed him to multiple styles of music and enabled him to develop a limitless repertoire of musical styles.

Rick’s mainstay continues to be jazz; however, he enjoys incorporating all kinds of music into his playing, like bebop, Latin. R&B, and Fusion. This is exemplified in Rick’s first solo recording New Frontier (Headfirst). Now released is Rick’s latest recordings Clouds (Jazzuni) Rick Zunigar Organ Trio (Jazzuni) which again boast a group of jazz greats including Joe Bagg-Organ, and Mark Ferber-Drums, Rick maintains his strong conviction to the mastery of the art of improvisation and composition. Rick’s goal is to reach as many people with his music; he feels he has a contribution to make in continuing the support and nurturance of the art of jazz.

Tracklist:
1. Twilight
2. Hussong's
3. New Frontier
4. Caribbean Night
5. It's Not Always What It Seems
6. Take Your Best Shot
7. Photosynthesize
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Kevan Paul: Parallel Universes (2011)

2011-03-29T23:47:00.000-07:00

This album hopes to continue with the innovative use of electric violin in jazz and electronic ambient fusion styles. Various rhythmic layers interact with melodic violin layers. Complex harmonic overlays and effects of electronic instruments are used to enhance the violin. The Jordan 5-string electric-violin is featured throughout, along with additional acoustic violin tracks. Those who are familar with jazz violin should enjoy this collection. - Kevan Paul
Tracklist:

1. First Chill of Autumn (5:15)
2. Bossa Mee (5:45)
3. Falling Waters (3:03)
4. Recovery Plan (4:12)
5. Natural Disasters (5:00)
6. Hypercycle (5:17)
7. Let Go of Fear (5:18)
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Urtzi Azkue: ST (2011)

2011-03-29T00:06:00.000-07:00

Urtzi Azkue began his musical career in 1992. Since then he has participated in projects of different styles as Noizbait, Lar, Wab, AllJazzEra ... He has also taken part in various projects as a technician and producer.

For this work has involved the featuring of the Barcelona located singer Khaoula Bouchkhi and the Basque saxophonist Itziar Castrillo (AllJazzEra).

Tracklist:

1 Aakesh 3:13
2 Tell Me (feat Khaoula Bouchkhi) 3:48
3 De Que Manera 3:23
4 Last Train 3:56
5 Beste Bat 3:53
6 Atoan 4:48
7 Bueltako Bidea 3:52
8 Cold Drink 4:06
9 Bildur Barik (feat Itziar Castrillo) 4:22
10 Second Round 4:23
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Passport: Running in Real Time (1985)

2011-03-29T00:05:00.000-07:00

Reissue and first U.S. release of the German jazz-fusion groups 1985 album. The leader of Passport, Klaus Doldinger worked with Donald Byrd and Kenny Clarke early in his career.

Tracklist:
1. At Large
2. Auryn
3. Talisman
4. Help Me
5. Joy Riding
6. Slap Shot
7. Mr. Mystery
8. Running in Real Time
Personnel:
Curt Cress - Percussion, Drums
Klaus Doldinger - Flute, Keyboards, Sax (Alto), Sax (Soprano), Sax (Tenor), Producer, Bamboo Flute
Billy Lang - Guitar
Bill Long - Guitar
Victoria Miles - Vocals
Kevin Mulligan - Guitar
Dieter Petereit - Bass
Claus Reichstaller - Synthesizer, Trumpet
Hermann Weindorf - Keyboards
Franz Weyerer - Synthesizer, Trumpet
Roykey Wydh - Guitar
Running in Real Time
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Trilok Gurtu with Simon Phillips: 21 Spices (2011)

2011-03-28T02:38:00.000-07:00

'21 Spices' sees two giants of the percussion world team up in a unique collaboration with Germany's NDR Big Band - tabla specialist Triok Gurtu and rock drummer Simon Phillips.

The musical roots of the two protagonists on this album could not be more different. Bombay born Trilok Gurtu left India in the seventies and in the following decade went on to perform with such greats as John McLaughlin, Joe Zawinul and Pat Metheny.

In contrast Londoner Simon Phillips pursued a very different path, initially as Jeff Pocaro’s successor in rock combo Toto and then with Peter Gabriel, Gary Moore and The Who. Mixing live recordings with studio tracks, '21 Spices' (named after the number of musicians involved) documents a work originally premiered at the Drums'n'Percussion Festival in Paderborn in May 2010. Occasionally strident, sometimes subdued, this recording is a unique excursion through contrasting musical worlds.

Tracklist:
01. Piece Of Five 9:16
02. Beaucoup 5:29
03. Kuruk Setra 9:44
04. Balato 6:37
05. Broken Rhythms 4:15
06. Jhulelal 10:20
07. 21 Spices 9:26
Personnel:
Trilok Gurtu (percussion & vocal),
Simon Phillips (drums),
Michel Alibo (bass),
Roland Cabezas (guitar),
NDR Bigband conducted by Joerg Achim Keller
21 Spices
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The Old Gits Blues Band: Brand New Day (2010)

2011-03-28T00:07:00.000-07:00

Howlin' Wolf is credited with the much-used line "you cannot play the blues unless you have suffered". Whilst it is true that living in Britain today cannot be compared with the cotton fields of the Southern USA in the early 1900's this does not mean we do not suffer in some other way.

The challenge was to create an album that respects the traditional blues songs from the past while bringing them up to date and ready for a new and younger audience. This challenge was met and exceeded with Brand New Day.

The blues have taken a long and meandering road over its history, from Mississippi, via Memphis and Chicago, over to the UK in the sixties and then back to new audiences in The USA. Brand New Day is following this rich tradition by keeping the blues alive and finding its place in the twenty-first century.

Tracklist:

01. Brand New Day
02. Gambling Man
03. Help Me
04. Piss Head Blues
05. I'd Rather Go Blind
06. Killin' Floor
07. Born Under A Bad Sign
08. Work Together
09. Smokestack Lightnin'
10. Shakin' All Over
Brand New Day
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Marica Hiraga: Close to Bacharach (2006)

2011-03-25T09:29:00.000-07:00

Marica Hiraga is a leading vocalist in Tokyo jazz scene and in demand vocalist. Her professional career began when she won at “Asia Music Award” in Hong Kong. She released two albums from Victor JCB. After the release she studied abroad to New York City then released standard jazz vocal album “My Shining Hour” in 2001, which was welcomed as "well made standard jazz album" to both critiques and jazz listeners. She just walked up. Next album "Faith"(2006) was "stepped ahead" album made with Harold Mabern and Eric Alexander. "My Favorite Things" arranged in Latin Jazz gets high reputation at any live performance.

In 2007 her next craft “Close to Bacharach” was with legendary jazz combo "Manhattan Jazz Quintet". David Matthews arrangement turned all Bacharach song revived Bacharach to the 21th century. This album was received "Swing Journal’s award for “Best Jazz Vocalist” 2007). In 2008 her next craft "more Romance" was with Rob Mounsey and Gerald Clayton. Then her next theme was Bossa Nova and Brazilian music. Encompassed flavor of sound and unique arrangement by Gil Goldstein, this album grabbed all those who love music itself and was again awarded at "Swing Journal’s award for “Best Jazz Vocalist” 2008 for her refined singing style and incredible sound creation. In 2009 She released "Sing Once More ~Dear Carpenters~". It was dedicated to great pop duo “The Carpenters” had debut 40 years anniversary this year. Marica recorded their big hit tunes and was received "Swing Journal’s award for “Best Jazz Vocalist” 2009.

Personnel:
Marica Hiraga (vc)
Manhattan Jazz Quintet
David Matthews (arr.pf)
Lew Soloff (tp)
Andy Snittzer (ts)
Charnet Moffett (b)
Victor Lewis (ds)
Tracklist:
01 Raindrops Keep Fallin' On My Head
02 Do You Know The Way To San Jose
03 Alfie
04 The Look Of Love
05 What The World Needs Now Is Love
06 (They Long To Be) Close To You
07 Wives And Lovers
08 A House Is Not A Home Flash
09 Arthur's Theme (The Best You Can Do)
10 God Give Me Strength
11 I'll Never Fall in Love Again
12 This Guy's In Love With You
13 That's What Friends Are For
Close to Bacharach
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Jonathan Kreisberg: Shadowless (2011)

2011-03-24T05:19:00.000-07:00

From the band's entrance on the first cut of SHADOWLESS, the intentions are very clear -- This is Jazz as an evolving artform. The respect for the tradition is deep but the compositions stretch the possibilities of form, the sounds challenge the possibilities of the "acoustic" jazz group, and the improvisations reflect a working band that has electrified audiences on five continents over the past few years. The result is a rythmically deep and lyrically compelling journey.

"On a conceptual level, i wanted the disc to have a strong impact...the effect of a bright light . After the smoky, late evening feel of last year's NIGHT SONGS (criss cross), I wanted SHADOWLESS to wake people up."

Featuring Jonathan's touring band,--- members Will Vinson on Saxophone, Henry Hey on piano, Matt Penman on bass, and Mark Ferber on drums-- on tunes such as the powerful opener "Twenty One", and the otherwordly groove of "Stir the Stars", the quintet is pared down to a quartet on the hauntingly lush "Long, Like a Mercury Day", a trio on the deceptively grooving romp on "nice work if you can get it", and an intimate yet exciting Hey/Kreisberg duo reading of the title cut.

As a guitarist, Jonathan Kreisberg has been steadily building his name as the one of the instruments brightest young stars. He has Toured and recorded extensively with his own groups as well artists such as Dr. Lonnie Smith, Joe Locke, Ari Hoenig and Stefano Dibattista.

"Jonathan Kreisberg is a great musician whose playing and writing always tell a story. His formidable technique and intellect never get in the way, but only serve the agenda of the heart." -Joe Locke

Tracklist:

1. Twenty One (7:57)
2. Stir the Stars (5:50)
3. Shadowless (5:47)
4. Zembekiko* (7:07)
5. Long, Like a Mercury Day (7:04)
6. The Common Climb (8:40)
7. Defying Gravity (3:27)
8. Nice Work If You Can Get It (8:26)

Personnel:

Jonathan Kreisberg - Guitar
Will Vinson - Saxophone
Henry Hey - Piano
Matt Penman - Bass
Mark Ferber - Drums

Shadowless

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Brian Bromberg: Hands - Solo Acoustic Bass (2009)

2011-03-23T09:25:00.000-07:00

This album is a rarity. He was released only for the Japanese music market!

Brian Bromberg's first totally "Solo" acoustic bass recording. This is a state of the art, 100% digital hi resolution recording. This CD is quite unusual as it was recorded using only digital microphones. There were no mic pre-amps, outboard EQ, or analog signal path. This is truly a noiseless recording. The CD was recorded at 24 bit 96 kHz and is one of the must pristinely recorded CD's to date. All of the songs were recorded live with no overdubs. This CD was recorded for King Records in Japan.

Tracklist:
01. Stella By Starlight
02. Cute
03. Solar
04. Beatles Medley: Day Tripper / Yesterday / Eleanor Rigby
05. Manha Di Carnival
06. In A Sentimental Mood
07. King Of Pain
08. Teen Town
09. Susumu's Blues
10. Use Me
11. Black Dog
12. What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life
13. Yeah
Hands
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Joe Beck: Brazilian Dreamin' (2006)

2011-03-23T06:05:00.000-07:00

Joe Beck has had a long career, though he remains an artist deserving of wider recognition. These 2005 sessions are a relaxing affair that will delight fans of Brazilian jazz. Joined by bassist Ira Coleman and drummer Thierry Arpino (who is known for his work with violinist Jean-Luc Ponty), Beck's fluid electric guitar (while sometimes overdubbing an acoustic rhythm line) makes the most of each selection, playing a heavy dose of popular tunes by Antonio Carlos Jobim and his own tasty originals. Highlights among the Jobim compositions include the bittersweet "O Grande Amor" and the easygoing "Felicidade." Harmonica player Gregoire Maret is added for the leader's gentle bossa nova "And Here's to You" and Jobim's bittersweet "Falando De Amor." Beck also offers an inventive samba arrangement of John Coltrane's "Giant Steps" that adds a few twists while played at a slower-than-typical tempo, so it sneaks up on the listener. Highly recommended! ~ Ken Dryden, All Music Guide

Personnel:
Joe Beck - Guitar
Ira Coleman - Bass
Thierry Arpino - Drums
Gregoire Maret - Harmonica
Tracklist:
01 Vivo Sonhando
02 Manha De Carnival
03 Aquerius
04 O Grande Amor
05 Felicidade
06 And Here's To You
07 Brazil
08 Ela E Carioca
09 Falando De Amor
10 Zanzibar
11 Giant Steps
12 What Would I Do Without You?
Brazilian Dreamin'
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Chyco Simeon: Roots - Mwen (2006)

2011-03-23T00:33:00.001-07:00

“This album is a beautiful mix of urban funk/jazz and French Carribean rhythms. I met Chyco a few years ago and, at that time, he told me that he was searching for a personal sound, a sound that reflects his world, his roots. I think that, with this recording, he has very much succeeded.” ~ Marcus Miller.
Tracklist:

01. La Filo [05:52]
02. If You Come [04:38]
03. Malicia [04:55]
04. Forgotten People [05:44]
05. Chaye'w [04:57]
06. Rev And Reality [04:22]
07. Albane's Moment [01:31]
08. Comments [04:50]
09. Bienfaicol [05:25]
10. We Will Rock You [05:14]
11. True Love [05:38]
12. Nathalie [06:12]
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Austin Peralta: Endless Planets (2011)

2011-03-23T00:33:00.000-07:00

There’s a lot to be said for youthful energy, but just how far can it get you in life? Pianist Austin Peralta seems to be having a good crack at finding out.

The 20-year-old Los Angeles resident (and son of original skateboarding legend Stacy) is a former child prodigy who released his first CD, Maiden Voyage (a trio date featuring Ron Carter on bass) in 2006 at the age of 15; the follow-up, Mantra, followed a few months later (this time a quintet with veteran bassist Buster Williams). This third album – his first self-produced effort, and the first to feature all original material – is released on Brainfeeder, the label run by Californian laptop musician Flying Lotus, aka Steven Ellison, great-nephew of the immortal John Coltrane himself. So, you’d expect this to be a coming-of-age album, displaying a new maturity, right? Well, yes and no.

At heart, tunes like Capricornus and The Underwater Mountain Odyssey are big, boisterous, contemporary, acoustic jazz – like Brad Mehldau with horns and an injection of rock‘n’roll energy. Drummer Zach Harmon and bassist Hamilton Price work up a bullish, crashing momentum throughout – and even the ballad Ode to Love jogs along with a restless drive (Note to Harmon: the use of brushes alone does not impart subtlety). Electronica artist Strangeloop provides unobtrusive segues between tracks and the final piece, Epilogue: Renaissance Bubbles, is a largely forgettable ambient collaboration with UK trip-hoppers The Cinematic Orchestra and vocalist Heidi Vogel. Yet, despite these nods to modernity, deep down, this is a very old-fashioned album. Most of the tunes stick roughly to a conventional head-solo-head structure, while Algiers – with an Arabian lilt to its bass hook and tasteful tablas – even has a somewhat naïve stab at the kind of ‘exotic’ jazz composition popularised by tunes like Coltrane’s Olé, as far back as the early 60s.

But the most tantalising track is Interlude – less than two minutes of deeply swinging hard bop that perfectly melds Peralta’s brash energy with his respect for the past. Here’s hoping it’s a glimpse of things to come.

Tracklist
1. Austin Peralta - Introduction: The Lotus Flower (2:16)
2. Austin Peralta - Capricornus (8:14)
3. Austin Peralta - The Underwater Mountain Odyssey (6:38)
4. Austin Peralta - Ode To Love (6:41)
5. Austin Peralta - Interlude (1:16)
6. Austin Peralta - Algiers (13:37)
7. Austin Peralta - Epilogue: Renaissance Bubbles (1:47)
Endless Planets
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Udi Levy: Ahava (2011)

2011-03-22T00:42:00.001-07:00

Smooth Jazz is always hungry for new high-quality artists, and guitarist/composer Udi Levy fills the bill perfectly with his debut project SMOOTH JAZZ TALES. A native of Israel, where he actually started his active musical career with a rock band, Udi now lives in New York. With numerous performances as an in-demand sideman, as well as dates with his “Udi Levy Quartet” at major NYC jazz venues, he’s definitely keeping himself in the spotlight. When you check out this superb collection of original compositions, you’ll easily hear why he’s getting all these gigs! It’s refreshing, organic, high-caliber guitar jazz, in the footsteps of Wes Montgomery, George Benson, and Norman Brown. Mr. Levy moves deftly from gentle (“Things from the Heart”) to in-the-pocket Smooth Jazz (“We’ll Meet Again”) to funk (“Funktion”) on this disc… always with passion and warmth. SMOOTH JAZZ TALES is a must-have CD from a rapidly rising star! -- SCOTT O'Brien-smoothjazz.com
Tracklist:

01. Blues For Shai (4:42)
02. Moment We Touch (4:20)
03. Ahava (5:07)
04. Borbala (6:13)
05. Home By Five (5:00)
06. Ease My Mind (3:56)
07. Midnight Walk (5:31)
08. City Lights (4:58)
09. Memories Of You (5:20)
10. Roughly Smooth (5:25)
Ahava
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Udi Levy: Smooth Jazz Tales (2008)

2011-03-22T00:42:00.000-07:00

Straight out of Israel comes Guitarist, composer, & seasoned performer and teacher Udi Levy. Udi has had great success in Europe, Canada, and now the U.S. Now living in New York, Udi has developed into one of the most sought after sidemen, while performing with his own band, "The Udi Levy Quartet", at some of New York's high profile jazz clubs.

Udi's debut CD, "Smooth Jazz Tales", has a superbly refreshing sound. Kind of like Wes Montgomery meet's Norman Brown, sprinkled with a little George Benson. The CD starts off with the smooth mid-tempo song "We'll Meet Again" which will set the tone for the rest of the CD. Other mid-tempo songs are "As Simple As That", "Those Beautiful Days", & "44th Ave".
Udi gets funky with "Funktion", & "Just Say It". Udi also slows the groove down with "Thoughts", "Would You", & "Things From The Heart".

Even though jazz has come to a stand still, there are still jazz artists like him that give and release refreshing new music to the world. Udi's CD is just "refreshing". His playing style comes from the heart - you can feel the passion, you can feel the warmth - it's like he's talking to you through his guitar.

Tracklist:

1. We'll Meet Again (4:43)
2. As Simple As That (4:41)
3. Thoughts (6:35)
4. Funktion (5:37)
5. Those Beautiful Days (5:09)
6. Would You (6:00)
7. Just Say It (4:30)
8. Things From The Heart (4:46)
9. 44th Ave (7:08)

Smooth Jazz Tales

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Al Di Meola: Pursuit of Radical Rhapsody (2011)

2011-03-21T01:08:00.000-07:00

Al Di Meola has enjoyed an impressively long career as a recording artist. The guitar virtuoso was only 22 when he recorded his first album as a leader, Land of the Midnight Sun, back in 1976 (although he had joined Chick Corea's Return to Forever at 19), and a 56-year-old Di Meola was still going strong when 2011 arrived. Di Meola's playing has evolved along the way; the shredding, intensity, speed, and pyrotechnics of his early albums were replaced by a more lyrical and introspective approach that shows some awareness of Pat Metheny yet is distinctively Al Di Meola. But one thing about the guitarist that hasn't changed is his affection for world music, which was a major influence on early albums such as Land of the Midnight Sun, Elegant Gypsy, and Casino, and is also a strong influence on his 2011 release Pursuit of Radical Rhapsody. This excellent album is jazz-rock fusion, but it is also world jazz; Di Meola maintains a decidedly international perspective throughout the CD, incorporating everything from Argentinian tango to Spanish flamenco to Middle Eastern and North African music. Afro-Cuban salsa is also part of the equation, and two of Di Meola's guests are people with definite Latin credentials: bassist Charlie Haden (let's not forget Haden's Revolution Music Orchestra of the '60s and '70s, or the boleros he played on 2000's Nocturne), and Havana-born pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba. The Afro-Cuban influence is especially strong on "Gumbiero" and "Destination: Gonzalo," although "Gumbiero" also incorporates flamenco and tango elements. Most of the material on Pursuit of Radical Rhapsody was composed by Di Meola himself, but two exceptions are the Beatles' "Strawberry Fields" and Harold Arlen's "Over the Rainbow." And Di Meola, behaving like the jazz improviser that he is, genuinely interprets those well-known popular songs and brings something personal to the table instead of playing the type of lame, note-for-note covers that smooth jazz (which Di Meola has adamantly stayed away from) is infamous for. Granted, Di Meola is by no means a jazz purist or a straight-ahead bebopper; he never claimed to be Barney Kessel or Tal Farlow, but his mentality is very much an improviser's mentality, and that mentality serves him consistently well on Pursuit of Radical Rhapsody.

Tracklist:
1 Siberiana 8:28
2 Paramour's Lullaby 7:45
3 Mawazine, Pt. 1 2:07
4 Michelangelo's 7th Child 7:30
5 Gumbiero 6:18
6 Brave New World 1:54
7 Full Frontal Contrapuntal 4:52
8 That Way Before 3:06
9 Fireflies 4:01
10 Destination Gonzalo 5:16
11 Bona 6:00
12 Radical Rhapsody 5:02
13 Strawberry Fields 4:09
14 Mawazine, Pt. 2 2:54
15 Over the Rainbow Arlen 3:04
Personnel:
Al di Meola (acoustic guitar, electric guitar, keyboards, percussion);
Kevin Seddiki (guitar);
Fausto Beccalossi (accordion);
Barry Miles (keyboards);
Peter Kaszбs (drums, percussion);
Gumbi Ortiz (percussion).
Pursuit of Radical Rhapsody
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Chyco Simeon: Ozanam (2010)

2011-03-19T00:56:00.000-07:00

Chyco Simeon was born in 1966 and spent all his childhood in one of the southern suburbs of Paris, Montrouge. He is of Caribbean origin. He was soon aware of his passion for music, a passion inherited from his father, a music lover who introduced him to all sorts of music, jazz, classical music, salsa, with West Indian music as the initial stimulus. Chyco is an autodidact. He started music in 1982. His instrument is the bass guitar (after testing the guitar, keyboards and drums).
He played for Sunshine band, with Tony Chasseur, Mario Cannonge, Pipo Gertrude (now a singer with Malavoi), Philippe Joseph (From Kassav) and Eric Bonheur when he was only sixteen and still at school . This band was quite successful for a time.
From 1984 up to 2010. Chyco has been a leader and guitar arranger for the Crystal band.
Became the reference in studio’s bass guitarist and contributed to many albums that were made in the Caribbean at that time.
He participated to the work of famous West Indians: Katherine Thelamon, Simon Jurad, Gertrude Senin, Zaza, Luther François, Fal frett, Steve Jurad, Fanzi, Claude St Prix, Luther François.
He made his reputation as a composer and a producer when he took part in productions of Georges Debs (producer of Kassav). His experience with Marcus Miller and Michel Alibo, two really gifted bass guitarists helped him. In 1990, back to Paris, he composed for artists like Tatiana Miath (Komeraj, Zouking girl, and Surpriz party) Tony Chasseur (Fanm muzik, …) One year later, he met the singer Serge Ponsar who introduced him to the world of funk and R&B and in collaboration with Arnaud Aubaille, Romano Mussumara (Jeanne Mas, Celine Dion, Michael Bolton, Garou, Ami Stewart). He wrote for the singer and pianist Carol Welsman. He also worked on remixes for Kassav, Guy, Sweetness and many others.
He then founded the band Washa (Bijou, F Chellaoui, O Chakil and himself) and continued to compose for singers such as Ashanty, Hasheem, O Chakil, with songs like “Le Chemin des Anciens” or “Kiss me tonight” for G-Squad . He also worked in the jazz scene for Mario Cannonge and others. He performed many concerts with his group, Washa, and recorded the single “Tant de combats” (So many battles). Chyco is nfluenced by Caribbean jazz hip-hop music. He performed on many different stages: Baisé salé, La Chapelle des Lombards, New Morning , Elysé Monmartre, L’Omympia.

Tracklist:

01. Carribean World
02. Bel Kreati
03. D’Autres Fois
04. Ozanam
05. Neg Mawon
06. Terresainvilles
07. Perfectablement
08. Natheliere
09. Mwen Enmew
10. Chameleon
11. Ste Luce
12. Bwa Brile

Ozanam
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Marbin: Breaking the Cycle (2011)

2011-03-19T00:30:00.000-07:00

Breaking the Cycle is the second album from fusion outfit Marbin, and sees the band expand from the original duo of guitarist Dani Rabin and sax player Danny Markovitch to now include drummer Paul Wertico and bassist Steve Rodby. The songs on Breaking the Cycle vary from burning jaz-rock fusion to lighter, more melodic fare, all of it being highly entertaining and showing a band that is really firing on all cylinders.

The opener "Loopy" really starts things off with a bang, a ripping fusion piece featuring soaring sax lines from Markovitch, a molten guitar solo from Rabin, and Wertico's nimble stick work. "A Serious Man" and "Mom's Song" sees the quartet moving into more introspective and melodic waters, while "Bar Stomp" is a frazzled blues romp, with Rabin's distorted rumblings sounding very close to Terje Rypdal's classic work. Markovitch really shines on the gorgeous "Western Sky", and the guest vocals of Matt Davidson & Leslie Beukelman really add a nice touch to the poignant modern jazz styled piece "Outdoor Revolution".

"Burning Match" is a dark, smoldering number, which kicks off with some tempting sax lines before Rabin's yearning guitar cries a variety of moaning notes. The upbeat "Snufkin" has a more whimsical feel, thanks to some quirky sax melodies from Markovitch and plenty of intricate rhythms from Wertico & Rodby. Add in Rabin's textured acoustic guitar work and you have a wonderful little number. Near 9-minute closer "Winds of Grace" is a folky vocal tune with guest singer "Daniel White. It's a pretty majestic song, featuring a great sax solo from Markovitch, and will appeal to those into folk rock and prog.

There's a lot to like here on Breaking the Cycle. Marbin have come up with plenty of memorable melodies and tasty playing throughout the CD, and though I would have liked to hear more aggressive material like the opener "Loopy", there's really nothing wrong you can say about anything here. It's a classy recording from a group of very talented musicians. Chalk up another winner from MoonJune Records!
Tracklist:

01. Loopy -5:59
02. A Serious Man -3:49
03. Mom's Song -2:05
04. Bar Stomp -3:04
05. Outdoor Revolution -3:08
06. Western Sky -2:12
07. Burning Match -5:11
08. Claire's Indigo -2:11
09. Snufkin -2:48
10. Old Silhouette -4:12
11. Winds Of Grace -8:39
Personnel:
Dani Rabin (guitar)
Danny Markovitch (saxophone)
Paul Wertico (drums, percussion on 1/8
Steve Rodby (bass)
Special guests:
Jamey Haddad (percussion 2/4/6/8/9/10)
Matt Davidson (vocals 3/6)
Leslie Beukelman (vocals 3/6)
Makaya McCraven (drums 4)
Daniel White (lyrics and vocals 11)
All music composed by Markovitch and Rabin
Breaking The Cycle
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Yellowjackets: Timeline (2011)

2011-03-18T06:42:00.000-07:00

Nearly two generations of fans have enjoyed the lasting influence and jazz tradition of Yellowjackets - 30 years of continuous service to America's native art form have made them unique in a business known for faddishness and important in that ever-changing world of music. Russell Ferrante - Jimmy Haslip - Will Kennedy - Bob Mintzer. All universally recognized innovators on their own and part of jazz history collectively as Yellowjackets mark this occasion with an all-new release entitled appropriately enough, Timeline. This is an essential chapter of a story that continues to be written.

Tracklist:
01. Why Is It 5:06
02. Tenacity 6:09
03. Rosemary 4:56
04. Timeline 5:13
05. Magnolia 4:38
06. A Single Step 7:07
07. Indivisible 5:24
08. like Elvin 5:34
09. My Soliloquy 6:24
10. Numerology 5:58
11. I Do 6:00
Timeline
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Big Dog Mercer: Attack of the South Paw (2011)

2011-03-16T10:35:00.000-07:00

Southpaw Bluesman Marty "Big Dog" Mercer hails from Joliet Illinois. His growling vocals and slide attack approach to the guitar is capitavting and heartfelt. This true bluesman and artist has released his debut CD "Attack of the Southpaw" on EGR in March 2011.

The "Big Dog" has shared the big stage with many blues greats, such as: Fabulous Thunderbirds, LV Banks, Jimmy Warren, Toronzo Cannon and much more...... Mercer brings raw blues straight from the heart. Check out the "Big Dog."

Tracklist:
01. Some Other Fool
02. Windy City Blues
03. All In Vain
04. I Shall Be Released
05. "Big dog" Gonna Treat You Right
06. Helpless
07. Stone Cold Christmas
08. Stickin' Pins Into Me
09. Thank You, Jesus
10. Tryin To Find My Baby
Attack of the South Paw
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Jacob Karlzon: Heat (2009)

2011-03-16T01:01:00.000-07:00

The music on this CD is another example of Jacob Karlzon's consistent creativity and inspiration. The tunes are full of vitality, various moods. A fine example of modern jazz which is both accessible and stimulating. If you want to convert your friends to jazz, this is an excellent place to start.

Tracklist:
01. 7th Avenue (7:00)
02. Hollow Life (7:22)
03. Gollum's Song (7:07)
04. Rubik 4 Real (5:44)
05. Laika (7:41)
07. Always in August (5:38)
08. Heat (4:42)
09. Late Night - Early Morning (4:48)
10. Still Hope (8:00)
Personnel:
Jacob Karlzon (piano);
Karl-Martin Almqvist (alto, soprano saxophone, tenor saxophone);
Peter Asplund (trumpet, flugelhorn);
Jonas Holgersson (drums)
Karlzon, Jacob: Heat
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Joel Harrison String Choir: The Music Of Paul Motian (2011)

2011-03-15T09:31:00.000-07:00

Joel Harrison is an illustrious guitarist and composer in the jazz circles and not to mention a great bandleader and he has put his many talents on his latest compilation called String Choir – The Music of Paul Motian which was released on January 23. Recapturing the music of straight-ahead jazz musician Paul Motian is no easy feat especially when the interpretation is within another genre; in this case classical. But Joel has pulled it off on this fully-stringed compilation that offers music on another plateau.

As with everything else, chamber music such as what is encapsulated here is indeed an acquired taste. If you are not into classical music you would find yourself struggling musically to grasp the pure intelligence and musical heights of this recording. The CD’s opener is the dreamy “It Should Have Happened a Long Time Ago” a track that gets its shine from a vulnerable sounding violin. Hear the quirky “Drum Music” a track that puts the drums and strings center stage in a piece that can well be labeled as musical art; it would work perfectly at a dance recital. Listen for the beguiling melodies on Beethoven’s “Cathedral Song” and “Owl of Cranston”, the latter with an arrangement that seem to mimic a bird in flight. Elsewhere on the CD are the futuristic-sounding moments that are within “Mumbo Jumbo” followed by “Split Decision” and the CD’s closer “From Time to Time”.

Tracklist:

1. It Should Have Happened A Long Time Ago
2. Drum Music 4:11
3. Cathedral Song 5:34
4. Misterioso 6:35
5. Mode V1 6:24
6. Owl Of Cranston 4:37
7. Jade Visions 4:37
8. Split Decision 2:29
9. Etude 7:24
10. Mumbo Jumbo 1:06
11. Conception Vessel 3:15
12. From Time To Time 3:35

Personnel:

Christian Howes - violin
Sam Bardfeld - violin
Mat Maneri - viola
Peter Ugrin - viola
Dana Leong - violoncello
Joel Harrison - guitar
Liberty Ellman - guitar

Music of Paul Motian
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Joe Morris: Camera (2010)

2011-03-15T06:33:00.000-07:00

For this follow-up to 2009's Colorfield, guitarist Joe Morris brings together Katt Hernandez, Junko Fujiwara Simons, and his longtime collaborator Luther Grey for adense textural landscape of sliding strings, ripping guitar, and pointillist percussion.
Morris explains, The title comes from a connection I feel to the assembly of tonesin film and photography ... there is an attraction to the sense of time stoppingand to the vagaries of tones in images that are of an instant ... As improvisingmusicians we function somewhat like a camera, displaying the moment in sound.

Tracklist:
1 Person in a Place
2 Street Scene
3 Angle of Incidence
4 Evocative Shadow
5 Patterns on Faces
6 Reflected Object
Personnel:
Joe Morris (guitar);
Katt Hernandez (violin);
Junko Fujiwara Simons (cello);
Luther Gray (drums)
Camera
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Johnny Tornado's Stormriders: Roll The Dice (2010)

2011-03-15T04:45:00.000-07:00

From the dusty tobacco roads of Tillsonburg, Ontario comes Johnny Tornado. A natural born outlaw, he left home at 14 to work in the Canadian tobacco fields. Johnny has traveled throughout Canada, coast to coast, playing his special brand of rockin' blues with the likes of the late, great Dutch Mason, Big Dave McLean and numerous other Canadian blues icons. As a young man he lived a gypsy's life exploring the deep American south, hustling pool and living for the moment. He worked as a carney and when the rides fell silent, Johnny would entertain the carnival crew with his honest and edgy performances. Whenever possible he would frequent the local blues clubs and was a witness to the evolution of the some of the blues masters such as Freddie King and John Lee Hooker. His checkered past brought with it tragedies, setbacks and finally prison time.

At age 40 Johnny emerged from prison with head full of songs and an intention to live his music, his way, on the right side of the law. Though he has appeared on many recordings and has extensive stage experience, Johnny has never made a full length recording of his own … until now.

”Stormriders” chronicles Johnny's life from those early days until the present. The songs are a direct and true reflection of a man who would lay down his life for a true friend. There is a gunslinger's swagger and a ‘devil may care' attitude that permeates his soulful songwriting and performances. He is a true Canadian treasure with a penchant for blues that will rock you to the core. There is a Storm brewing... and it's Johnny Tornado's Stormriders coming to your town!

Tracklist:
01. Voodoo Queen
02. Just Like Jimmy Reed
03. Stormriders Ridin'
04. Intentions Were Good
05. Lonely Highway
06. Can't Have It Your Way
07. Kristine
08. Raw To The Bone
09. Ride The Wild Surf (Roll The Dice)
10. Mister Blues
Personnel:
Johnny Tornado (guitars, vocals)
LeeAnn Coleman (vocals)
Adam Drake (drums)
Tim Steinruck (bass, vocals)
Big Dave McLean (guitar, harp)
Kenny “Blues Boss” Wayne (piano)
Wes Mackey, Wailin’ Al Walker (guitar, vocals)
Roll the Dice
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Jimmy Bosch: A Milion (2009)

2011-03-14T07:33:00.000-07:00

This is a really fabulous album from the Hendrix of trombone, Mr. ‘Descargarana’ Jimmy Bosch. “? A Million!” references some Spanish expressions that allude to something being great, and also to something that speeds by you with energy to burn at a million miles an hour – and that just about sums up this release. With Mr. Bosch’s recordings, you know you can never go wrong: Jimmy puts his all into the productions, giving you hard-core salsa with a jazz heart – plenty of room for the musicians to cook, with clear sound, hot rhythms, scintillating charts, diverse formats, lyrics that mean something (with sentimiento and humor), and old-school chops for all involved. This record is that and more – watch out, there are some crazy mambo monas here, with all kinds of reeds and brass galore, and of course, the acoustic piano, by Edwin Sanchez as usual, is all real, and all tasty. Jimmy is known for introducing new talent and this time the excellent 24-year-old Boricua sonero ‘Willito’ Otero really heats things up. He also gives his long time backup Colombian singer Johana Castaneda a chance to shine with her sparkling lead vocals on the powerful “Mujeres Manda,” a salsa dura that says: women are in control of their destiny in the industry, and now it’s the men who sing coro! There is also a trombone/bass instrumental that serves as tribute to the influence of all the great bass players Jimmy has accompanied, like Cachao, Bobby Rodriguez, and Andy Gonzalez. Top it off with the carnival party atmosphere conjured by the Mozambique/comparsa “Quedate”, and you have the full Jimmy Bosch experience.

Personnel:
Edwin Sanchez Piano
Jose Tavares, Ruben Rodriguez Bass
Johnny Rodriguez Bongos, cowbell, guiro
Eric Velez Congas, quinto
George Delgado Congas
Raul Agraz Trumpet
Peter Brainen Tenor, soprano sax
Jeff Lederer Tenor sax
Mitch Frohman Bari sax
Mauricio Smith Jr. Flute
Joe Fiedler Trombone
Jimmy Bosch Trombone, lead vocals
Wilfredo Otero Maracas, guiro, lead vocals, coro
Johanna Casteneda Lead vocals

Tracklist:
01. Bailalo Si Te Atreves
02. Maracayero
03. Foreclosure Radio Mix
04. Mujeres Mandan
05. Te Adoro Mami
06. Cuantas Veces
07. Quedate
08. Alma Compartido
09. Foreclosure Full Version
!A Millon!
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Dave Stryker Organ Quartet: Keystone (2010)

2011-03-14T05:43:00.000-07:00

Dave Stryker expands his organ trio of SCCD 31679 “One For Reedus” with the addition of Stephen Riley on tenor sax (and Quincy Davis -drums replacing Steve Williams) here on his latest album. Stryker turned this time-tested traditional swinging formation into a cooking 21st century version.
On Stryker’s 2008 release “Strike Up The Band” (SCCD 31637), Owen Cordle of JazzTimes commented “…. A fine album, it catches Stryker building long, clichй-free solos. … The title track sets a high artistic standard for the album, with everyone in a thoughtful frame of mind.”
Tracklist:
1. KEYSTONE (Dave Stryker) 8:25
2. CAN'T BUY ME LOVE (Lennon - McCartney) 8:48
3. SENTINELESE (Dave Stryker) 8:29
4. LADY SINGS THE BLUES (Holiday - Nichols) 5:24
5. THE ROSE (FOR MIKE ROSINSKY) (Dave Stryker) 6:42
6. FIRST STRIKE (Dave Stryker) 9:19
7. TENDERLY (Walter Lloyd Gross) 9:59
8. WATCH WHAT HAPPENS (Michel Legrand) 12:39

Personnel:
Dave Stryker (guitar)
Stephen Riley (tenor sax)
Jared Gold (B3 Hammond organ)
Steve Williams (drums)
Keystone
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Wayne Escoffery: Uptown (2009)

2011-03-14T02:36:00.000-07:00

Tenor saxophonist Wayne Escoffery brings it all back home on his latest release "Uptown," available now from Posi-Tone. With a strong program of new originals, by Escoffery and guitarist Avi Rothbard, and a few familiar melodies, the album also showcases strong showings by organist Gary Versace and drummer Jason Brown who really keeps the session in the pocket. Avid listeners will certainly agree that the album really swings and is a hard hitting performance that should encourage jazz enthusiasts to go "Uptown" again and again with amazement and delight.
Tracklist

1 No Desert Rothbard 05:33
2 I Got It Bad Ellington 06:07
3 Cross Bronx Rothbard 05:33
4 You Know I Care Pearson 05:26
5 Road from Eilat Escoffery, Versace 01:04
6 Gulf of Aqaba Escoffery 05:55
7 Nu Soul Escoffery 04:41
8 Maya's Waltz Rothbard 08:44
9 Easy Now Escoffery 02:14

Personnel
Wayne Escoffery Saxophone
Gary Versace Organ
Avi Rothbard Guitar
Jason Brown Drums

Uptown
Fileserve / Depositfiles @ 320K

Terence Blanchard: The Heart Speaks (1996)

2011-03-14T01:31:00.000-07:00

Although trumpeter Terence Blanchard gets first billing on this recording, it is very much a joint effort with singer-composer Ivan Lins. Not only are all 13 songs by Lins but he sings on all but the three instrumentals although sometimes just wordlessly in the background. Blanchard often harmonizes with Lins' voice, creating a melancholy and dreamy atmosphere. Most selections feature Blanchard's regular rhythm section of the time, augmented by Paulinho Da Costa's percussion and occasionally Oscar Castro-Neves' acoustic guitar. This CD, which is full of haunting ballads along with a few more jubilant numbers, serves as a superior introduction to Lins' music for jazz fans who might only be familiar with his "Love Dance." -- AMG

Tracklist:
01.Aparecida
02.Antes Que Seja Tarde
03.Meu Pais (My Country)
04.Valsa Mineira
05.The Heart Speaks
06.Congada Blues
07.Nocturna
08.Just For Nana
09.Orizimbo And Rosicler
10.Choros Das Aguas
11.Love Dance,Comecar De Novo
12.Menino
13.Aparecida Reprise
Personnel:
Terence Blanchard — Trumpet, Cello Arrangement
David Bolaavrich — Cello
Oscar Castro-Neves — Guitar
Paulinho Da Costa — Percussion
Troy Davis — Drums
Ivan Lins — Piano, Vocals
David Pulphus — Bass
Edward Simon — Piano
Fred Totkin — Cello
Frederick Zlotkin — Cello
Heart Speaks
Depositfiles / Fileserve @ 320K

Bob Mintzer / Dado Moroni / Riccardo Fioravanti / Joe La Barbera: La Vita e Bella (2010)

2011-03-11T02:09:00.000-08:00

It was by bringing together four outstanding international jazz masters, for a tribute to the purest jazz music in a true and simple way, that this project came to life. This album has been recorded “live” in a historical jazz club located in the town of Busto Arsizio ( Italy) and it’s imbued with those very genuine but volatile flavours such as : immediacy, complicity and the spontaneous feedback coming from the audience. These four talented musicians took on this nice challenge and the result is evident. Four musicians who are now a worldwide reference: saxophonist Bob Mintzer is one of the most studied for his modernity of language and arrangement. Dado Moroni is perhaps the most famous Italian jazzman and appreciated worldwide. Joe La Barbera is not only known for his intense collaboration with Bill Evans, but also because few people today are equipped with expressiveness and ability to enter the music like him. Riccardo Fioravanti is now one of the most solid rhythmic international reality and his collaborations and his records speak for themselves.
Original compositions( with the exception of two songs), a modern language together with a great respect for tradition are the ingredients savantly blended together as an example of a precise common intent.
The sound is enriched by this live recording that conveys its freshness, along with those surrounding “noises” leading to the overwelming climax bringing to memory some of those historical jazz sessions of the glorious past. The song titled "Life is Beautiful", soundtrack of the famous film by Roberto Benigni, as well as being the title track sums up the flavor of the cd.

Tracklist:
1.The Gathering
2.La Vita e Bella
3.Re Re
4.Kind of Bill
5.Bradley's, 2AM?
6.After
7.Ninna Anna
8.Invitation
Personnel:Bob Mintzer (tenor sax)
Dado Moroni (piano)
Riccardo Fioravanti (double bass)
Joe La Barbera (drums)
La vita è bella
Hotfile / Depositfiles @ 224-320K

Ruud Weber Band: New Blues (2011)

2011-03-10T23:49:00.000-08:00

After two years of touring and two CD’s with the Snowy White Blues Project, singer and bass player Ruud Weber debuts with his own powertrio. Ruud Weber Band is all about modern Blues that flirts with styles like jazz, rock and funk.
Ruud Weber Band started out when he discovered guitarist Lars Müller with his unique guitar style during blues sessions in his hometown. With drummer Rob ter Maat this turned out to be the magic combination for this powertrio.
After many years of live experiences they started recording their debut CD “New Blues” in 2009. Twelve originals revealed a new blues sound that has influences from jazz, rock and funk.
Guitarist Lars Müller turned out to be a master of his instrument creating the perfect crossover between blues and jazz.
Snowy White appears as special quest on the album, playing his classic “Goldtop” Les Paul guitar. Nico Wayne Toussaint from France plays Harmonica on the album.

Tracklist:
01. Revolution
02. If I Can't Have You
03. Go Back To Where You Came From
04. Can't Get Enough
05. Just Another Day
06. Out Of Control
07. Change Of Heart
08. Move Over Mister
09. Tell Me Tell Me
10. I Still See You
11. Colours And Shades
12. Take One
Personnel:
Ruud Weber (vocal, bass)
Lars Muller (guitar, vocal)
Rob ter Maat (drums)
special guests:
Snowy White (guitar)
Nico Wayne Toussaint (blues harp)
John Hondorp (Hammond)
New Blues
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Nathan Eklund: Trip to the Casbah (2009)

2011-03-10T06:35:00.000-08:00

Leading a band to the realization of one's ideas is its own challenge. Having side players versed in leading themselves can only add to the process. Seattle-born, New York-based horn man Nathan Eklund leads such a band through ten original compositions on "Trip to the Casbah."

Splitting his time on trumpet and flugelhorn, Eklund oversees a group that saxophonist Donny McCaslin, guitarist John Hart and bassist Bill Moring, each of whom has led his own sessions. Along with Tim Horner on drums, the band uplifts the leader's pieces with authority and their own ideas. Eklund, meanwhile, moves things along with sharp but not acerbic trumpet tone, balanced with sweeter sounds on flugel (but never losing the improvisational edge on that instrument--think Art Farmer, for example).

The tunes for the most part represent a gentler post-bop sensibility: hard when it needs to be but knowing when to pull back as well. The melodies here may take a little warming up to, but function nicely as improvisational springboards. The tandem lines of Eklund and McCaslin shine here, and the leader also gets some refreshing duet time in with guitar, bass and drums, on "Hand Picked from Her Garden," "Happiness Is..." and part one of the title track, respectively. "Trip to the Casbah" is an accomplished piece of modern straight-up jazz.

Personnel: Nathan Eklund (tp, flg); Donny McCaslin(ts); John Hart (g); Bill Moring (b); Tim Horner (d)

Tracklist:
01. Toboggan Ride -6:19
02. Passing Trains -6:08
03. Hand Picked from Her Garden -4:26
04. South Chelan -7:57
05. Trip To The Casbah, part 1 -2:27
06. Trip To The Casbah, part 2 -6:24
07. Long Lake -6:48
08. Happiness Is… -5:00
09. Big Bro’s Backstop -7:53
10. Fast Food -6:48
Trip to the Casbah
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Joe McBride: Texas Hold'em (2005)

2011-03-10T02:06:00.000-08:00

Born and raised in Fulton, MO, keyboardist/singer Joe McBride began playing the piano at age four. His uncle Bake McBride was an outfielder for the St. Louis Cardinals and the Cleveland Indians. His earliest influences were gospel music, bebop, straight-ahead jazz, Motown, and '70s R&B and funk. As a teenager, he began singing and playing at jazz clubs. Around this time, McBride was stricken with a degenerative eye disease that eventually claimed his sight, but his passion for music didn't diminish. He continued his musical studies at the Missouri School for the Blind and Webster University in suburban St. Louis, where he majored in jazz performance. He also attended the University of North Texas. Around 1983, McBride trekked to San Diego, CA, a bastion of smooth jazz radio. He began playing with the band Fattburger and guitarist Steve Laury.

In 1985, McBride visited his brother in Dallas, TX. What was originally planned as a two-week visit evolved into an abundant opportunity. He was flooded with performing offers, leading to McBride becoming a popular musician of the city's jazz club scene. During that time he met a young trumpeter named Dave Love at a function for North Texas State University. The two became fast friends and when Love ventured into the other side of the music business and started the Heads Up International label, the executive remembered the soulful pianist/vocalist he had met in Dallas and signed him to a record deal. In 1992, the keyboardist was featured on Heads Up labelmate Kenny Blake's debut, Interior Design, and began touring with the Heads Up Superband along with Blake, Gerald Veasley, andHenry Johnson. McBride has also been the opening act for Whitney Houston, Larry Carlton, and the Yellowjackets. His reputation has reached overseas, making McBride a favorite in Europe and Spain.

McBride's debut album, Grace, released in 1992, instantly made him a core artist at smooth jazz radio. McBride's other albums released during the '90s include A Gift for Tomorrow (1994), Keys to Your Heart (1996), and Double Take (1998). A stellar guest list of artists that have appeared on his releases includes Grover Washington, Jr., Richard Elliot, Phil Perry, Peter White, Dave Koz, Rick Braun, and Larry Carlton, among others.

At the start of the 21st century, McBride's long sought-after dream was realized: an album that featured his band, the Texas Rhythm Club. His CD Texas Rhythm Club was recorded in his home base of Dallas and issued by Heads Up International on June 27, 2000. Highlights are "Howzit in Dallas," "Everything Remains the Same," the tender ballad "It's You," the snappy "Lone Star Boogie," and the humorous "Texas Blues Cruise." His recorded output has continued during the new millennium, as 2002 saw the release of Keepin' It Real, while Texas Hold'em came out in 2005. Lookin' for a Change appeared in 2009 from Heads Up Records.

Tracklist:1. Big Slick
2. In A Garden Of Eden ‘In-A-Gadda-Da-Vida’
3. Double Down
4. Texas Hold’em
5. Giving It All To You
6. In And Out
7. No Limit
8. I’m Here For You
9. All In
10. The River
11. One Eyed Jack
Texas Hold'Em
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Buster Williams: Griot Liberte (2004)

2011-03-09T23:53:00.000-08:00

Bassist Buster Williams and his quartet perform six of his originals plus two standards on Griot Liberte. Williams' songs range from the modal "Nomads" and the medium-tempo blues "Related to One" (which includes some complex transitions) to the lyrical ballad "The Triumphant Dance of the Butterfly" and the swinging "Joined at the Hip," which has George Colligan's best solo of the set. Williams takes plenty of solos but is also generous in featuring vibraphonist Stefon Harris and pianist Colligan with drummer Lenny White being stimulating in support. There are times (particularly during "Related to One") when the group sounds a bit like the Modern Jazz Quartet, but other selections find the musicians showing more individuality. They are very much in tune with each other and, although not a touring group, sound as if they play together very regularly. Excellent modern mainstream jazz. ~ Scott Yanow

Tracklist:

1. Nomads
2. Related To One
3. The Triumphant Dance Of The Butterfly
4. The Wind Of An Immortal Soul
5. Every Time We Say Goodbye
6. Joined At The Hip
7. Concierto De Aranjuez
8. After The Ninth Wave

Personnel: Buster Williams (double bass);
George Colligan (piano);
Stefon Harris (vibraphone, marimba);
Lenny White (drums)

Griot Liberte (Hybr)
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Oscar Peterson Trio: The Complete Cole Porter Songbooks (2010)

2011-03-09T07:08:00.000-08:00

For this extended edition, Essential Jazz Classics have added 13 further Porter compositions recorded by Peterson on various occasions, including all of the songs from a Cole Porter songbook attempt made in 1952 by the Peterson trio with Brown again on bass and Barney Kessel on guitar.

Tracklist;
01 - In The Still Of The Night
02 - It's All Right With Me
03 - Love For Sale
04 - Just One Of Those Things
05 - I've Got You Under My Skin
06 - Every Time We Say Goodbye
07 - Night And Day
08 - Easy To Love
09 - Why Can't You Behave
10 - I Love Paris
11 - I Concentrate On You
12 - It's De Lovely
13 - I Get A Kick Out Of You
14 - Just One Of Those Things
15 - Love For Sale
16 - Let's Do It
17 - Night And Day
18 - What Is This Thing Called Love
19 - Anything Goes
20 - I've Got You Under My Skin
21 - I Love You
22 - In The Still Of The Night
23 - Every Time We Say Goodbye
24 - Begin The Beguine
25 - So Near And Yet So Far
Personnel:
Oscar Peterson (p)
Ray Brown (b)
Ed Thigpen (d)
Plays the Cole Porter Songbook
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Graham Haynes: Transition (1996)

2011-03-08T08:12:00.000-08:00

Where Miles Davis left off in the recording studio just before his death, cornetist Graham Haynes picks up, continuing to explore the controversial marriage between mainstream jazz and hip-hop rhythms. With the swipe of a scratch turntable, John Coltrane's "Transition" is sent reeling into the hip-hop age (who is to say that the ever-curious Coltrane wouldn't be dabbling in hip-hop if he were still alive?), as do a number of Haynes originals. Yet Haynes also has other fusions and revivals on his mind, sometimes reaching back to Miles' nearly forgotten mid-'70s "jungle band" for fuel. "Walidiya" throws Middle Eastern vocals and a sitar into a lengthy, mesmerizing procession, overseen by Haynes' far-off cornet and Steve Williamson's soprano sax. Haynes even successfully revives one of Miles' least-imitated experiments, the wah-wah-pedal trumpet (or in this case, cornet), on "Mars Triangle Jupiter" and "Freestylin.'" - by Richard S. Ginell, AMG

Tracklist:
1. Transition (John Coltrane) 8:00
2. South Node Of The Moon In Pisces (Graham Haynes) 5:28
3. Walidiya (Check Tidiane-Seck/A. Anabi) 11:57
4. Mars Triangle Jupiter (Graham Haynes) 7:10
5. Harmonic Convergence (Brandon Ross) 8:36
6. Freestylin' (Graham Haynes) 7:42
7. Facing The East (Bheki Mseleku) 5:06
8. Com Que Voz (L. De Camoes./A. Oulman) 2:59
Transition
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John Gatti: Destinations (2011)

2011-03-08T00:47:00.000-08:00

These are songs I wrote about memorable destinations. Now you can be there by just listening!
"Destinations" consists of songs inspired by some of the many places my wife and I have visited over the years. In these songs I celebrate the exotic as well as the familiar, everything from Caribbean paradises to the Jersey shore, from our nation's busy capital to our peaceful lake community. Musically, I'm giving equal billing to local and international destinations, from Paris, France to the Great Falls, Paterson's new National Park. In composing these pieces, I've tried to interject many of the jazz elements I love best, including Latin rhythms, Funk, New Orleans style, Swing, and strong melodies, to make these tunes as distinctive as the trips that inspired them.

Tracklist:
01. Cotton Candy (Yankee Stadium, Bronx, NY) (4:12)
02. Watermelon Summer (Long Beach Island, NJ) (3:53)
03. Old San Juan (Puerto Rico) (5:52)
04. Cast Away (Caribbean Island) (4:16)
05. Jet-Glider (Great Falls, Paterson, NJ) (5:35)
06. Saltimboca (New Orleans) (4:15)
07. Struttin' Around Pines Lake (Wayne, NJ) (4:59)
08. Beltway Bossa (Washington, DC) (5:34)
09. Tomorrow's Showers (Seattle, WA) (4:29)
10. Red-Tailed Wally (Lake Converse, Armonk, NY) (4:42)
11. Cooling Down (San Francisco, CA) (4:49)
12. Paree (Paris, France) (3:57)
13. Pepe's Dancing Feet (Atlanta, GA) (5:25)
Destinations
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