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
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
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
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
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
Proving that there is still room for an authentic country voice in the Country music genre, Scotty McCreery has bravely released an unabashed rural record. It’s an album that true country fans will embrace, and it includes several songs that will no doubt inspire audiences to sing along when McCreery hits the road this summer. … Continue reading
For a very good time, give The Mike Goudreau Band‘s new album, Just Wanna Have Fun, a spin. It’s a collection that thoroughly entertains, all while covering an impressive reach of musical and emotional territory. The album is Mike Goudreau’s 23rd independent release and is co-produced with his longtime collaborator Dany Roy. It’s also a collection … Continue reading
He’s one of the great chroniclers of American cultural history. His powerful voice crystallizes moments we’ve lived with political, social, and economic history that frames it. The interplay between them is captured in McLean’s chords and lyrics, and made clear in his enduring songs. And, lucky us, he’s got more to sing about these days. … Continue reading
Sometimes a great musician comes along who articulates just the emotional state you haven’t even realized you are in. This happened with Jose Gobbo Trio‘s new album, Current. The album’s sonic waves are bound to transport you to that place. If not, then just enjoy the floating. Gobbo, a virtuoso Brazilian jazz guitarist whose debut … Continue reading
There’s no country as agreeable as roadhouse country. And if you agree, you should listen to Almost Time, the latest release from John Surge and the Haymakers. Almost Time distills the barroom experience. Guiding the way, on his second album as frontman of John Surge and the Haymakers, Surge rocks and soothes, banters and reveals. … Continue reading
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