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
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
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
Jazz pianist, composer and singer, Sarah McKenzie recently released her sixth album, Without You. The Brazilian-influenced collection includes material from jazz legend Antonio Carlos Jobim (including bossa nova classics “Chega De Saudade (No More Blues)” and “The Girl from Ipanema”), along with four original songs. The quality of the songs is matched by her strong, sparkling musicianship. The album’s … Continue reading
Bobby Kapp and some equally sensitive fellow musicians play the music of Richard Sussman on Synergy, the provocative new jazz release. It is a ever-evolving tour de force, with the interplay between the players perfectly in tune with the innovative compositions and charts. The arrangements require particularly adept transition capabilities. Each moment unravels logically, sustaining … Continue reading
Allow me to introduce you to Bowmanville. If you were one of the nearly hundred partygoers at my NYC apartment last weekend, you enjoyed their new album, Bowmanville, for hours. And if you were one of the many who asked who was on the turntable, this review is for you. Bowmanville is a quintet (Mason … Continue reading
Canadian soul/blues/roots singer/songwriter André Bisson isn’t easy to label. There’s a pulse to every song. The music he makes is as expansive as the experiences of life. Bisson wrote and produced all the material on Latchford, his 10th studio album. Clearly, he has stories to tell, feelings to convey (and inspire), and he does it … Continue reading
On his latest release, pianist and keyboardist Sam Ross turns the Mira Room into an intimate, energetic experience as he fills the space with verbs and reverbs that soothe and scintillate. Judging from the live audience response on the album, they agree with me. (That an audience representation takes up the majority of the space … Continue reading
Madre Vaca’s latest release is an album depicting the legend of King Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table that features rich melodies, creative solos, impeccable ensemble performance, and a spirit that does justice to the classic stories. From the album notes: “Once upon a time, there was a land invaded by evil: Innocent … Continue reading
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