Lele Rambelli: No Boundaries Music (2010)

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

------------------------

Fileserve / Depositfiles @ 256-320K

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

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
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Giuseppe Mirabella: Moods (2008)

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.

------------------

Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Ignacio Ouzande: ST (2011)

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
--------------
Hotfile / Uploading @ vbr

Rick Zunigar: Twilight (2009)

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
------------------
Hotfile / Uploading @ vbr

Kevan Paul: Parallel Universes (2011)

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)
---------------------
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Urtzi Azkue: ST (2011)

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
--------------
Uploading / Depositfiles @ 320K

Passport: Running in Real Time (1985)

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
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Trilok Gurtu with Simon Phillips: 21 Spices (2011)

'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
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

The Old Gits Blues Band: Brand New Day (2010)

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
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Marica Hiraga: Close to Bacharach (2006)

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
FileServe / Uploading @ 320K

Jonathan Kreisberg: Shadowless (2011)

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

Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Brian Bromberg: Hands - Solo Acoustic Bass (2009)

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
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Joe Beck: Brazilian Dreamin' (2006)

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'
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Chyco Simeon: Roots - Mwen (2006)

“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]
----------------
Hotfile / Uploading @ vbr

Austin Peralta: Endless Planets (2011)

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
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Udi Levy: Ahava (2011)

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
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Udi Levy: Smooth Jazz Tales (2008)

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

Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Al Di Meola: Pursuit of Radical Rhapsody (2011)

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
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Chyco Simeon: Ozanam (2010)

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
Fileserve / Hotfile @ 192K

Marbin: Breaking the Cycle (2011)

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
Hotfile / FileServe @ 320K

Yellowjackets: Timeline (2011)

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
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Big Dog Mercer: Attack of the South Paw (2011)

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
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Jacob Karlzon: Heat (2009)

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
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Joel Harrison String Choir: The Music Of Paul Motian (2011)

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
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Joe Morris: Camera (2010)

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
Hotfile / Fileserve @ 320K

Johnny Tornado's Stormriders: Roll The Dice (2010)

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
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Jimmy Bosch: A Milion (2009)

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!
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K

Dave Stryker Organ Quartet: Keystone (2010)

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
Hotfile / Uploading @ 320K