(on Gulf Coast Records) Half Texas, half California, huh? I can relate. That was the first half of my life. Having grown up in California, and then discovering Austin, Texas for my college years, I can understand Lara Price‘s impulse to make some compelling music. She is clearly one of the musicians keeping Austin the … Continue reading
Monthly Archives: June 2024
New Blues: One Dime Band — ‘Side Hustle’
One Dime Band – Side Hustle One Dime Band is a perfect example of what can ignite when artists work together, with each other. If there was ever an argument for partnership in music, this duo’s album is it. With this, their debut album, One Dime Band offer a blend of blues and R&B, while establishing … Continue reading
New Jazz: Albare — ‘Beyond Belief’
Beyond Belief invites the listener to an introspective world of jazz where melody still reigns supreme.. This album is a journey through master musician Albare’s rich musical landscape. His guitar is not merely an instrument but a voice that speaks of life, experiences, and the often-unspoken narratives of the heart. With this collaboration with his … Continue reading
New Jazz: Rob Dixon/Steve Allee Quintet —’Standards Deluxe’
Saxophonist Rob Dixon and pianist Steve Allee have collaborated for years, and the recent album—Standards Deluxe—proves that their artistry is profound when combined. Their creativity, especially when playing with bassist Nick Tucker, drummers Greg Artry and Kenny Phelps, and trumpeter Derrick Gardner, is in fine form as they take the listener through a well-balanced selection … Continue reading
New Jazz: Julia Vari (feat. Negroni’s Trio) — ‘Somos’
It is a gift. Sometimes that is the only explanation for natural talent. Especially when it is as effortless as the musicians who have shared their talents on this album: Julia Vari (swinging vocals), José Negroni (piano, musical direction), Rafael Valencia (bass), and Nomar Negroni (drums). On the album’s seven songs, Julia Vari and the celebrated Negroni’s Trio, … Continue reading
New Jazz: Carl Clements — ‘A Different Light’
A Different Light, the new album from jazz artist Carl Clements, is as ever-changing as the sky itself. The permutations, the overlaps, the gradations from one moment to the next, are as imperceptible as the day-to-night (or night-to-day) transition that occurs every 24 hours. In other words, these songs make perfect sense and offer profound … Continue reading
New Jazz: Jake Hertzog — ‘Longing to Meet You’
Jake Hertzog‘s new album, Longing To Meet You, is an exquisite journey that features a taut balance of four explorers who breathe music: Jake Hertzog (guitar), Matt Woroshyl (saxophone), Perrin Grace (bass), and Joe Perl (drums). Longing to Meet You is Mr. Hertzog’s ninth studio album and features a grouping that first came together during … Continue reading
New Jazz: Bruna Black & John Finbury — ‘Vã Revelação’
Bruna Black & John Finbury’s new album, “Vã Revelação,” is a meditative Brazilian jazz sojourn that exemplifies the subtle shift from spring to summer. Ms. Black’s vocals are as seductive as a cool wave on a warm day. Equally as impressive is the rhythm section led by—oh, what the heck, the entire band is strong. … Continue reading