It feels like Academy Awards night at my place. Why? I’m listening (on repeat) to Movie Magic, the new album from Jack Wood and Nichaud Fitzgibbon. The collection of 16 sublime songs is given a loving presentation from the duo. Each track is a straightforward treatment, each note is sung or played as intended by … Continue reading
New Jazz: Eric Person — ‘Rhythm Edge’
Originally released in 2007, Rhythm Edge has been remixed and remastered for a new generation of jazz listeners. Its re-release is a celebration of the many talents of Eric Person. He does it all, it seems, expertly… and with a grace and relaxation that allows each note the quality of self determination. He is of … Continue reading
New Blues/Soul: Joe Flip — ‘Old Soul Live’
Joe Flip’s highly anticipated third album, ‘Old Soul: Live,’ captures the electrifying energy of a sold-out live performance. Recorded at Le Musique Room in St. Michael, Minnesota—with an energetic, appreciative audience—the album captures 13 inspired songs, and an impressive breadth of styles. Renowned for his high energy, distinctive sound, and handmade oil can guitars, Joe … Continue reading
New Jazz: David Schumacher & Cubeye — ‘Smoke In The Sky’
Dave Schumacher has been a touring musician based in New York for more than 40 years. He has played and recorded with artists such as Lionel Hampton, Harry Connick, Jr., T.S. Monk On Monk, Tom Harrell Octet and Big Band, Art Blakey Big Band, Joey DeFrancesco, Mel Torme and many more. Dave has performed in over … Continue reading
New Blues: Mitch Woods — ‘Happy Hour’
Label: MoMojo Records With their new album, Happy Hour, Mitch Woods and His Rocket 88s are upholding a great American blues musical heritage. Although this has been the case for five impressive decades, they sound as fresh, playful, and energetic as ever. There’s a contagious spirit that fills the air when these musicians play and, … Continue reading
New Jazz: Gino Amato — ‘ Latin Crossroads’
One of the surest signs of good material is the ongoing reinvention it receives from subsequent artists. Such is the case with pianist Gino Amato‘s new album, Latin Crossroads. Besides his mesmerizing musicianship at the keys, the album also offers a glimpse into another of his profound talents—as an arranger. On the disc, he and a … Continue reading
New Blues/Rock: Chris BadNews Barnes — ‘BadNews Travels Fast’
Chris BadNews Barnes‘ latest release, BadNews Travels Fast, is a collection of exciting material, stellar players, and top-notch production values that results in a gratifying listening experience that blues/rock lovers will want to experience time and again. These are Nashville blues—blues with a bit of twang in their soul, and Chris Barnes leads the music … Continue reading
New Jazz: Mercer Hassy Orchestra — ‘Duke’s Place’
With this album, composer/arranger Mercer Hassy takes the timeless music of Duke Ellington and reinvigorates it with wit and wisdom. The intricate and polished performances of everyone involved are a tribute not only to the Mercer Hassy Orchestra, but equally to the rich source material. As a tribute, it is impeccable. Track Listing: Daybreak Express; … Continue reading
New Blues/Rock: Shawn Kellerman — ‘Hell’s Kitchen’
Canadian blues rocker Shawn Kellerman‘s latest album, Hell’s Kitchen, is an energizing listening experience. It brings great hope to those who love solid blues/rock. As long as Shawn Kellerman is on a stage, the state of the genre is in fine shape. The entire ensemble of musicians support each other phenomenally throughout the album. The … Continue reading
New Jazz: Eric Frazier — ‘That Place’
Eric Frazier‘s latest album—That Place, Featuring “Return of the Panther Woman!”—is the height of creativity, and, therefore, one of the most rewarding listening experiences to come along in quite a while. Rhythm is at the center of Eric Frazier’s music: the pulse, the heartbeat, the energy of every moment is given full expression. Each of … Continue reading