Steps Ahead - Smokin' In The Pit

Size: 168,4+175,7 MB
Time: 72:55+76:10
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 1980/1999
Styles: Jazz: Fusion, Post-Bop
Art: Front

CD 1:
01. Tee Bag (13:44)
02. Uncle Bob (Bonus Track) (10:48)
03. Fawlty Tenors (10:46)
04. Lover Man ( 8:38)
05. Fawlty Tenors (Alternate Take) (13:00)
06. Song To Seth (13:02)
07. Momento (Bonus Track) ( 2:54)

CD 2:
01. Young And Fine (16:32)
02. Not Ethiopia (10:58)
03. Soul Eyes (12:15)
04. Recordame (Bonus Track) (10:01)
05. Not Ethiopia (Alternate Take) (12:23)
06. Saras Touch (13:59)

This 1980 Steps release with the band configuration preceding Steps Ahead is a freewheeling live romp, recorded at Japan's Pit Inn, and an exciting showcase for drummer Steve Gadd, saxophonist Michael Brecker, bassist Eddie Gomez, and the late, great pianist Don Grolnick, as well as Mainieri himself. Lovingly re-assembled by Mainieri, the 2-CD set includes several alternate takes and unreleased tracks for hard-core fans to discover. For many, however, Smokin' will appeal as a document of its time, and a chance to look in on the early days of some of today's legends. The content itself highlights the sheer joy of a tight band in wild improv heaven: Grolnick's keyboards spiraling wickedly in a mad, exhausting dance with Gadd on "Fawlty Tenors," and Brecker's swaggering lead on the unreleased swinging timing piece "Uncle Bob" are just a couple of the many highlights. Although the fusion feel of the time, as well as '70s rock flavors (as on the fusion-meets-the-Doobies "Tee Bag") are in evidence here, the level of exploration is also key. Where "Lover Man" showcases Mainieri in a dark take on straightahead jazz longing, "Song to Seth" pulls bluesy emotion into its light, music box texture. ~By Hilarie Grey

Smokin' In The Pit CD 1
Smokin' In The Pit CD 2

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Maxine Sullivan - We Just Couldn't Say Goodbye

Size: 174,6 MB
Time: 74:00
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 1995/2015
Styles: Jazz Vocals
Art: Front

01. We Just Couldn't Say Goodbye (2:44)
02. Someday Sweetheart (2:24)
03. Exactly Like You (2:50)
04. That Old Feeling (2:49)
05. Miss Otis Regrets (2:34)
06. I'm Gonna Sit Right Down And Write Myself A Letter (2:44)
07. It's The Talk Of The Town (3:58)
08. I Gotta Right To Sing The Blues (2:44)
09. She's Funny That Way (2:48)
10. St. Louis Blues (2:32)
11. Between The Devil And The Deep Blue Sea (2:53)
12. Legalize My Name (2:09)
13. You Were Meant For Me (2:22)
14. I'm Beginning To See The Light (3:26)
15. I Thought About You (4:04)
16. Between The Devil And The Deep Blue Sea #2 (2:36)
17. I Got It Bad, And That Ain't Good (4:11)
18. Brother, Can You Spare A Dime (3:55)
19. Georgia On My Mind (4:14)
20. Don't Get Around Much Any More (3:22)
21. Skylark (2:19)
22. What Is There To Say (2:57)
23. I Didn't Know About You (3:33)
24. Just One Of Those Things (3:43)

Two former LPs are combined on this single CD. The subtle but always swinging singer Maxine Sullivan is heard on a very pleasing 1983 session in which she is joined by trumpeter Doc Cheatham (who sounds quite lyrical), the underrated clarinetist Herb Hall, pianist Red Richards, bassist Ike Isaacs and drummer Tom Martin. But good as that date is, it is the first half of this CD that is most memorable. Sullivan sounds exuberant while being inspired by the great cornetist Ernie Carson, Spencer Clark on baritone, pianist Art Hodes, bassist Johnny Haynes and drummer Martin. Carson takes many heated solos; Hodes is often rollicking, and Sullivan's voice is heard throughout in prime form -- she even takes a valve trombone solo on one song. Highlights include definitive versions of "We Just Couldn't say Goodbye," "Someday Sweetheart," "That Old Feeling" and "Between the Devil and the Deep Blue Sea." In addition, there is a previously unreleased version of "It's the Talk of the Town" from Feb. 8, 1978, a very spontaneous performance with Hodes' band during an otherwise instrumental session. Highly recommended. ~Review by Scott Yanow

We Just Couldn't Say Goodbye

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Chet Baker - Lost Tapes: Early Chet Baker In Germany 1955-1959

Size: 112,8 MB
Time: 48:18
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2014
Styles: Jazz
Art: Front & Back

01. Bockhanal (3:06)
02. Cool Blues (3:27)
03. Brash (4:37)
04. Lover Man (Oh, Where Can You Be ) (5:31)
05. Sweet Georgia Brown (3:16)
06. Lullaby In Rhythm (3:07)
07. Everytime We Say Goodbye (3:10)
08. Everything Happens To Me (4:04)
09. I'll Remember April (2:48)
10. Baker 56 (2:12)
11. Higher And Higher/It Never Entered My Mind (3:20)
12. I Should Care (2:37)
13. Lover/Love Me Tonight/Isn't It Romantic (3:05)
14. Polka Dots And Moonbeams (3:53)

The gentle poet of the trumpet that was his image. So it came as something of a surprise for European audiences to hear the Chet Baker they discovered at his live concerts: a trumpeter with a decisive attacca style and lively boppy lines, accompanied by a pianist who combined innovative harmonies with bizarre rhythms and a drummer who propelled the band with a hard, driving beat. No one was prepared for this Chet Baker Quartet, featuring pianist Dick Twardzik, bassist Jimmy Bond and drummer Peter Littman. Bockhanal gives us a chance to experience the same sense of surprise: the Chet Baker Quartet with the Kurt Edelhagen Orchestra in what is possibly their only joint concert. Full of energy and melodic wit, Chet Baker flies through the piece written by his friend Jack Montrose, in a new interpretation by the Edelhagen band. Bockhanal is the earliest number on Early Chet and a particularly valuable rarity: just four weeks after this concert, the quartet no longer existed.

Lost Tapes

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Michael Steinman - Current Residence

Size: 101,1 MB
Time: 39:50
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2015
Styles: Jazz Vocals, New Orleans Jazz
Art: Front

01. Struttin' With Some Barbecue (3:33)
02. Darktown Strutter's Ball (3:54)
03. Is You Is Or Is You Ain't My Baby (4:00)
04. After You've Gone (4:43)
05. On The Sunny Side Of The Street (4:40)
06. Big Butter And Egg Man (5:41)
07. I Diddle (3:06)
08. Jack, You're Dead (2:59)
09. Jumpin' With Symphony Sid (2:32)
10. Just A Gigolo (4:38)

This is a really fun album of classic and traditional jazz with a contemporary flair. The mellow, swinging sound of the trombone and Michael's voice and the excellent accompaniment of the back up band and the guest soloists all contribute to a fine first album by this deracinated artist...

"The CD is a wonderful collection of songs. The vocals are smooth and the songs complement one another well in terms of tempo and balance. I am not a music expert, but my husband has a deep passion for various types of music and he had nothing but compliments for the CD." - Megan

"I have really enjoyed this CD. Steinman and Co. have created a collection that people of all ages and walks of life will appreciate. The tunes are very upbeat and entertaining, an instant fog lifter for your mood. Well done!"

"I'm so happy to have bought this new CD. Love the trombone and vocals. Actually, everything sounds great. My favorite is "Jack, You're Dead". That's worth the cost of the CD right there." - Lynn

"Some beautifully played jazz standards by Steinman and company. With cool vocals like Chet Baker, and tasteful jazz trombone as well, this is a great addition to any CD collection." - Jay

"Love the Jazz sounds of this CD.. The vocals and music flow so well together. What a great CD to relax to. Well done Michael!!"

Current Residence

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Lynn Lewis - At Long Last Love

Size: 123,1 MB
Time: 53:28
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2013
Styles: Jazz Vocals
Art: Front

01. When In Rome (3:23)
02. Easy To Love (4:28)
03. Invitation (4:03)
04. Autumn Nocturne (4:33)
05. Cinnamon And Clove (4:14)
06. It's Alright With Me (3:29)
07. Dindi (5:24)
08. Midnight Sun (4:42)
09. You Must Believe In Spring (5:16)
10. Out Of This World (4:59)
11. At Long Last Love (4:29)
12. Time Remembered (4:23)

Lynn's voice captivates you from the first note......Duffy Jackson

This collection of songs, beautifully arranged and pristinely played is the work of a singer who truly loves the music and knows how to present it. I am honored to have played even a small part in this production, and I recommend this recording to everyone who loves jazz and the Great American Songbook. A musical marriage of singer, song, and arrangements, it brings together all the elements needed to make you smile when you hear it. And smile you will. Beegie Adair

This album is a collection of standard tunes with fresh arrangements yet stays true to the beauty of the original compositions. You'll love the warmth of the vocals reminiscent of the likes of Peggy Lee and Rosemary Clooney. You will hear anything from the soft nylon stringed guitar accompaniment on Dindi, sung in Portuguese to a killer big band chart that is the title cut of the album and a bit of everything in between.

At Long Last Love

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Chantale Gagne - The Left Side Of The Moon

Size: 144,6 MB
Time: 62:38
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2015
Styles: Jazz
Art: Front

01. Mystere (5:46)
02. After You (5:28)
03. The Left Side Of The Moon (6:39)
04. Moon Gazing (6:23)
05. In Time (5:16)
06. Your Blues Is My Blues (4:32)
07. A La Claire Fontaine (5:40)
08. Just A Dream (5:48)
09. Up Again (6:53)
10. Echoes (8:38)
11. Roach Rag (1:28)

There is a spiritual strength and feeling of humanity within the compositions and playing of Chantale Gagne, and The Left Side Of The Moon is further confirmation of this Quebec native’s impressive talent. This is Ms. Gagne’s third release, following Silent Strength (2008) and Wisdom Of The Water (2010), and as on her previous recordings, the commanding rhythm team of bassist Peter Washington and drummer Lewis Nash are featured. The quartet is rounded out with saxophone virtuoso Steve Wilson, whom the pianist met at the New York City jazz club, Small’s, back in 2009. As Steve commented during the recording session, “Her music appeals to both the head and the heart,” and the end result is very rewarding for the listener. ~Renee Rosnes

The Left Side Of The Moon

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Carlos Barbosa-Lima - Siboney

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 65:49
Size: 150.7 MB
Styles: Brazilian jazz, Easy Listening
Year: 2004
Art: Front

[3:50] 1. Mambo No 5
[3:20] 2. Drume Negrita
[2:02] 3. Perdido
[1:57] 4. Ojos Brujos
[4:37] 5. Siboney
[2:26] 6. Tico Tico
[3:51] 7. Guantanamera
[3:08] 8. Siempre En Mi Corazon
[1:54] 9. La Comparsa
[3:09] 10. Lamento Borincano
[4:18] 11. Bahia
[3:47] 12. Solamente Una Vez
[3:04] 13. El Cumbancherito
[3:23] 14. Aquarela Do Brasil
[2:49] 15. Cachita
[5:18] 16. Maria La O
[2:40] 17. Danza Lucumi
[3:24] 18. Perfidia
[3:22] 19. El Viento
[3:20] 20. Danza Negra

Carlos Barbosa-Lima's second outing for Zoho Music, entitled Siboney, bears the mark of a master. The playlist is primarily solo guitar adaptations of Latin American favorites such as "Guantanamera," "Drume Negrita," and the title cut, "Siboney." There are, however, a number of delightfully spirited ensemble pieces, including "Mambo No. 5," "Tico Tico," and "Cachita." Barbosa-Lima's expert ensemble consists of New York Latin jazz greats and Zoho labelmates such as drummer Dafnis Prieto, Latin piano legend Oscar Hernandez, bass player Eddie Gómez, and conguero Pepe Torres. It is clear that the guitar hero does best when on his own, as he is often either smothered or lost in the shuffle of a larger ensemble. His solo arrangements are well thought out, sensitive, and often deliciously minimalist. The disc is sonically warm and present, especially in solo or duo format. When Barbosa-Lima is joined by more than one other musician, however, the mix becomes clumsy. Though Siboney is hit or miss, at 20 tracks there are plenty of winners to outweigh the occasional awkward moment. ~Evan C. Gutierrez

Siboney

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Kurt Rosenwinkel Trio - East Coast Love Affair

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 48:02
Size: 110.0 MB
Styles: Post bop, Straight ahead jazz
Year: 1996
Art: Front

[8:13] 1. East Coast Love Affair
[6:18] 2. All Or Nothin' At All
[5:20] 3. Turn Out The Stars
[3:30] 4. Pannonica
[4:26] 5. Lazy Bird
[9:05] 6. 'round About Midnight
[3:54] 7. Little White Lies
[7:12] 8. B Blues

Recorded at Small's Club in N.Y.C., July 10 & 24, 1996. Bass – Avishai Cohen; Drums, Producer – Jorge Rossy; Guitar – Kurt Rosenwinkel;

This little-known gem captures Rosenwinkel live at Smalls, the famous New York jazz club, with Avishai Cohen on bass and Jorge Rossy on drums. Rosenwinkel's guitar style is distinctive and highly developed at this stage. Only two originals appear -- "East Coast Love Affair" and "B Blues" -- and both are mesmerizing, though quite similar in tempo and mood. The remainder of the program consists of standards and jazz classics, all interpreted with gusto and originality. Rosenwinkel's chordal mastery is especially evident on the two Thelonious Monk selections, "Pannonica" and "'Round Midnight." His Latin reading of "All or Nothing at All", like Mark Turner's version on Ballad Session, takes its cue from Coltrane's 1961 version. It's quite a shame that East Coast Love Affair is so hard to find, for the album showcases some of Rosenwinkel's finest playing. `david R. Adler

East Coast Love Affair

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Gabriela Anders - Bossa Beleza

Styles: Brazilian Jazz, Bossa Nova
Year: 2008
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 46:52
Size: 107,5 MB
Art: Front

(4:06)  1. September
(3:23)  2. Aqua De Beber
(3:38)  3. Samba De Verao
(4:44)  4. Samba De Uma Nota So
(5:25)  5. (I can't get no) Satisfaction
(3:17)  6. Amapola
(5:03)  7. Dindi
(4:20)  8. Folhas Secas
(5:15)  9. Fantasia
(3:13) 10. Siempre Asi
(4:23) 11. Sexy Ride

Influenced by Brazilian pop and the music of her native Argentina, Gabriela Anders spent much time in America soaking up jazz and R&B sensibilities, all of which inform her singing. The daughter of a jazz saxophone player, Anders studied classical guitar while a child but moved to piano study at a Buenos Aires conservatory. She spent much time in New York as well, soaking up the music of tenor specialists John Coltrane, Stan Getz and Dexter Gordon. She also studied with Don Sebesky and began singing with Grover Washington, Jr. and Tito Puente while going to college. A brief time in Japan resulted in her first album, 1996's Fantasia (recorded as Beleza), though she had returned to New York by 1997. After sending a demo tape into Warner Jazz, Anders signed a contract and released Wanting in August 1998. ~ Bio  https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/gabriela-anders/id500320#fullText

Personnel: Gabriela Anders (vocals, background vocals); Jair Coelho (guitar, cavaquinho); Pancho Navarro, Romero Lubambo, Sandro Albert, Wayne Krantz (guitar); Aaron Heick (flute); Tito Castro (bandoneon); Jorge Anders (saxophone); Hélio Alves (piano, keyboards); Hector Martignon (piano); Sean Wayland (keyboards); Chris Dingman (vibraphone); Adriano Santos, Portinho (drums, percussion); Sophia Ramos (background vocals).

Bossa Beleza

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Chris Standring - Love and Paragraphs

Styles: Jazz Funk
Year: 2008
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 45:18
Size: 104,4 MB
Art: Front

(4:16)  1. Qwertyuiop
(3:51)  2. Love & Paragraphs
(3:58)  3. As Luck Would Have It
(4:03)  4. Have Your Cake And Eat It
(6:07)  5. Liquid Soul
(5:35)  6. Ooh Bop
(4:11)  7. C.S. In The Sunshine
(4:21)  8. That's What I Thought You Said
(4:36)  9. Qu'est-ce Que Tu Fais?
(4:16) 10. Reflection

Once upon a time Wes Montgomery plugged in his guitar and changed the way the world listened to jazz. Since then the guitar pick has been passed on to artists including George Benson, Earl Klugh, John Scofield and Pat Metheny, and each and every one has pushed the genre just a little bit further. With Love and Paragraphs, guitarist Chris Standring makes a fair bid to push it the next step forward. This is as close to being a perfect album as any released in 2008. The production values of a recording usually aren't considered among its key selling points, but they are here; the album sounds terrific. Whether heard in a car, on a computer or a stereo system, the work of Standring and co-producer Rodney Lee (who also plays keyboards in Standring's band) just dazzles. Lee's mix features Standring's guitar but, unlike too many recordings where the featured instrument gets pushed up front to the point where the rhythm section barely buzzes in the background, the bass isn't lost in the mix, the keyboards absolutely sparkle and the drums vary from up front and kicking to deftly keeping time. Standring isn't so much the star of the show as the leader of the band, encouraging terrific performances from all the contributors, especially bassists Rico Belled and Andre Berry, drummers Eric Valentine and Dave Karasony, and Lee's tastefully restrained keyboard embellishments. Guest performances from keyboardist Jeff Lorber and saxophonist Everette Harp are perfectly at home in the cool groove established. 

There are ten tracks on Love and Paragraphs and all ten of them are winners. From the stomping opener, "Qwertyuiop," to the meditative closer, "Reflection," there isn't a single throwaway moment on the album. Some artists go into the studio with 45 minutes worth of record to fill and only 30 minutes worth of good music. Standring doesn't bring anything less than his best to the entire session. The title track is based on Standring's e-mail encounters with fans frustrated by his brief one-liner replies, leading one woman to chastise the guitarist upon meeting him, declaring, "You owe me paragraphs!" That somewhat cheeky fan should be very pleased to know she inspired Standring to deliver his most fully accomplished album yet and simply one of the most listenable and outstanding albums of the first half of 2008. ~ Jeff Winbush  http://www.allaboutjazz.com/love-and-paragraphs-chris-standring-ultimate-vibe-review-by-jeff-winbush.php
 

Personnel: Chris Standring: guitars, keyboards, programming, talk box, vocals; Rodney Lee: keyboards, organ, programming; Andre Berry: bass; Rico Belled: bass; Larry Steen: bass (8); Eric Valentine: drums; Dave Karasony: drums; Everette Harp: tenor sax (1); Jeff Lorber: Fender Rhodes solo (9): Jeff Robinson: vocal; Mary Cassidy: vocal (2).

Love and Paragraphs

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