Claire Martin - A Modern Art

Styles: Vocal
Year: 2009
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 52:47
Size: 121,4 MB
Art: Front

(3:35) 1. Everything I` ve Got Belongs To You
(3:19) 2. So Twentieth Century
(3:39) 3. Love Is Real
(4:33) 4. Lowercase
(3:11) 5. A Modern Art
(3:35) 6. Edge Ways
(3:08) 7. Love Of Another
(4:57) 8. Totally
(3:30) 9. Everybody Today Is Turning On
(4:15) 10. Sunday Morning Here With You
(3:25) 11. Promises
(4:28) 12. Things I Miss The Most
(3:33) 13. As We Live And Breathe
(3:32) 14. Nirvana

Is jazz still a modern art? It's a hundred years old, after all, and some performers and fans seem to ignore everything written after 1940. But as far as the work of Claire Martin is concerned the question has only one answer. Apart from being one of the finest singers on the current scene, Martin is constantly searching for new writers and new ways to interpret them, ensuring that her own approach to music stays resolutely in the present. A Modern Art, her thrteenth album, is an eclectic recording that showcases her talents and those of a superb collection of backing musicians it's possibly the best album of her career to date, which is saying something.

The musicians are some of the best around and all play with skill and empathy. Mark Nightingale's trombone adds a funky edge to the album, guitarist Phil Robson once again displays his ability as an accompanist his duet with Martin on David Cantor's "Nirvana" is exquisite and long-term collaborator, arranger and producer Laurence Cottle, who also plays bass, is recognizably crucial to the overall feel of these songs.

Martin's singing is exceptional distinctive, expressive and stylish. She can be smoky and sensual on Michael Franks' "Sunday Morning Here With You," for example or playful and funny. On "Edge Ways," written by Martin and Cottle, the singer is sensual and playful satirizing an egotistical and overly-talkative old friend or rival over a suitably upbeat and cheery backing. Donald Fagen and Walter Becker's "Things I Miss the Most" is given a Latin groove which, added to Martin's light-hearted vocal, gives the song a warmer, more positive feel than the original. Martin is not averse to making a small lyrical adjustment here she goes to bed with a copy of a celebrity gossip magazine, rather than the more dubious literature favored by the protagonist in the Steely Dan version.

The album highlight is undoubtedly "Love is Real." This is a gorgeous ballad, co-written by pianist Esbjorn Svensson, bassist Dan Berglund and drummer Magnus Öström (collectively known as e.s.t.), with lyrics by bassist Charlie Haden's son, Josh. Svensson died in a diving accident in 2008 and Martin sings this as a tribute to the pianist. Her vocal performance is heartbreaking, adding even more emotional intensity to an already powerful song. This is a song that stays in the memory. Given the quality of the album as a whole this is high praise indeed A Modern Art is a gem. ~ Bruce Lindsay https://www.allaboutjazz.com/a-modern-art-claire-martin-linn-records-review-by-bruce-lindsay.php

Personnel: Claire Martin: vocals; Gareth Williams: piano; Laurence Cottle: bass; Nigel Hitchcock: alto sax; Mark Nightingale: trombone; Phil Robson: guitar; James Maddren: drums; Chris Dagley: drums; Sola Akingbola: percussion.

A Modern Art

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George Cables - Cables' Vision

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 1979
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 40:30
Size: 93,6 MB
Art: Front

(6:48) 1. Morning Song
(8:55) 2. I Told You So
(8:49) 3. Byrdlike
(6:02) 4. Voodoo Lady
(4:24) 5. The Stroll
(5:28) 6. Inner Glow

One of the most satisfying recordings to be released in 1980 (and since reissued on CD in the OJC series), this date by pianist George Cables (who contributed four of the six group originals) features trumpeter Freddie Hubbard (who brought in "Byrdlike") and tenor saxophonist Ernie Watts in fiery form; the two horn players took time off from their much more commercial efforts for other labels. Vibraphonist Bobby Hutcherson is also in the sextet/septet with bassist Tony Dumas, drummer Peter Erskine, and sometimes percussionist Vince Charles; the one departure is "The Stroll," which is an adventurous piano-vibes duet by Cables and Hutcherson. The solos overall are concise and make expert use of each note. Cables' tunes (including "Morning Song," "I Told You So," and "Inner Glow") are generally catchy and memorable while "Byrdlike" gives the virtuosos an up-tempo blues to romp through. This logically conceived and well-paced set is a gem that is highly recommended.~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/album/cables-vision-mw0000085929

Personnel: George Cables - piano, electric piano; Freddie Hubbard - flugelhorn; Bobby Hutcherson - vibraphone; Ernie Watts - tenor saxophone (2, 3, 6), flute (4); Tony Dumas - bass, electric bass (1); Peter Erskine - drums; Vince Charles - percussion (2, 4, 6)

Cables' Vision

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Stan Kenton - Stan Kenton Presents

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 1950
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 35:52
Size: 83,0 MB
Art: Front

(5:19) 1. Art Pepper
(4:17) 2. Maynard Ferguson
(5:01) 3. Halls Of Brass
(3:44) 4. Evening In Pakistan
(4:07) 5. June Christy
(4:18) 6. House Of Strings
(4:28) 7. Shelly Manne
(4:36) 8. Soliloquy

Stan Kenton's most ambitious orchestra was his huge 1950 band. This LP has self-titled showcases for "Art Pepper," "Maynard Ferguson," "June Christy" and "Shelly Manne" in addition to such pieces as "Halls of Brass," "House of Strings" and "Soliloquy." The soloists (which also include trombonist Milt Bernhart) are very impressive but it is the writing (by Shorty Rogers, Bill Russo, Frank Marks, Johnny Richards and Kenton himself) that is most startling, combining together aspects of modern classical music with the most advanced forms of jazz. Although Kenton's Innovations Orchestra was a short-lived project and did not influence the future of jazz, its recordings still sound very adventurous over four decades later. The album was reissued on CD with the contents of the same year's Innovations in Modern Music (plus much additional material) as the two-disc set The Innovations Orchestra.~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/album/stan-kenton-presents-mw0000899398

Personnel: Stan Kenton – piano, arranger; Alfred "Chico" Alvarez, Buddy Childers, Maynard Ferguson, Don Paladino, Shorty Rogers – trumpet (tracks 1–4, 7 & 8); Milt Bernhart, Harry Betts, Bob Fitzpatrick, Bill Russo – trombone (tracks 1–4, 7 & 8); Clyde Brown (tracks 1–3 & 7), Bart Varsalona (tracks 4 & 8) – bass trombone; John Graas, Lloyd Otto – French horn (tracks 1–4, 7 & 8); Gene Englund – tuba (tracks 1–4, 7 & 8); Art Pepper – alto saxophone, clarinet (tracks 1–4, 7 & 8); Bud Shank – alto saxophone, flute (tracks 1–4, 7 & 8); Bob Cooper – tenor saxophone, oboe, English horn (tracks 1–4, 7 & 8); Bart Caldarell – tenor saxophone, bassoon (tracks 1–4, 7 & 8); Bob Gioga – baritone saxophone, bass clarinet (tracks 1–4 & 6–8); Jim Cathcart, Earl Cornwell, Anthony Doria, Lew Elias, Jim Holmes, George Kast, Alex Law, Herbert Offner, Carl Ottobrino, Dave Schackne – violin (tracks 1–4 & 6–8); Stan Harris, Leonard Sclic, Sam Singer – viola (tracks 1–4 & 6–8); Gregory Bemko, Zachary Bock, Jack Wulfe – cello (tracks 1–4 & 6–8); Laurindo Almeida – guitar (tracks 1–5, 7 & 8); Don Bagley – bass (tracks 1–5, 7 & 8); Shelly Manne – drums, tympani (tracks 1–5, 7 & 8); Carlos Vida – congas (tracks 1–4, 7 & 8); Jack Costanzo – percussion (track 5); June Christy – vocals (track 5)

Stan Kenton Presents

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The Rebecca Kilgore Trio - The Rebecca Kilgore Trio, Vol. 1

Styles: Vocal
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 46:52
Size: 108,3 MB
Art: Front

(4:01) 1. Dear Bix
(3:28) 2. Day In - Day Out
(3:56) 3. Somebody Just Like You
(2:58) 4. Run, Little Raindrop, Run
(3:18) 5. Azure-Té / Azure
(2:55) 6. Talking to Myself About You
(2:48) 7. Old Soft Shoe
(4:25) 8. I Wanna Get Married
(3:00) 9. Like the Brightest Star
(3:51) 10. That Sunday That Summer
(3:59) 11. The Gentleman Is a Dope
(4:38) 12. Because We're Kids
(3:29) 13. There's a Small Hotel

What do "Doxy," "Cottontail," "Dear Bix" and "I Wanna Get Married" all have in common? Clues to a party game on some lost episode of Playboy After Dark? Give up? All make an appearance on Rebecca Kilgore's "swing and have fun" release, which is just what Kilgore and her co-conspirators (including her husband, Dick Titterington, on cornet) accomplish. Eclectic is the word for this marvelous compilation, whose composers run from Rube Bloom to Richard Rodgers.. But that's good. Putting the recording on and hearing "Dear Bix" was like reliving a summer Saturday night listening to Jim Cullum's "Live from the Landing" circa 1990, no small thing. But then again, Kilgore really hit the memory traces with Nat King Cole's "That Sunday, That Summer," which beats Percy Faith and "A Summer Place" for sigh, lost youth. And you thought Cole owned that song and the evocation of the summer of 1963, but he doesn't. At least not any longer.

How many ways can you sell a familiar song? Well, take "The Gentleman is A Dope," which is more ironic than disillusioned, and bright, even in its minor key, because Kilgore takes it slightly up from its customary tempo. This is what adventuresome musicians can do with "conventional" material from the Great American Songbook. It doesn't have to be dull. Maybe you never heard the "Because We're Kids" lyrics by one Doctor Seuss. Oh, oh. Trigger warning. They are, gasp, woke "Just because you wear a wallet near your heart, You think you're twice as smart, You know that isn't fair." Oh, yeah, sung up front in even quarter notes, just for emphasis. One's faith in Dr Seuss is restored. And Kilgore's ongoing project of rescuing interesting tunes from death by neglect is clearly validated..

Who doesn't like "There's Small Hotel," generally identified with Chet Baker? Kilgore takes it down a bit, in a very matter of fact way. This is the way a slightly whimsical and experienced woman who's lived a little would take the song. Her version does not record the enthusiasm of a first assignation. Kilgore does not sound like she's reading from anyone's script other than her own. Age sometimes matters, and not just in wine and cheese. Experience shows and it only deepens, rather than diminishes art. "Doxy," "Cottontail," "Dear Bix," well, you'll have to hear the CD to solve the puzzle. Hint: pianist Randy Porter does have a great sense of humor. Tom Wakeling's time and sound are never obtrusive, but are always there. Swing and have fun, indeed. You will.~ Richard J.Salvucci https://www.allaboutjazz.com/the-rebecca-kilgore-trio-vol-1-rebecca-kilgore-heavywood-records

Personnel: Rebecca Kilgore: voice / vocals; Randy Porter: piano; Tom Wakeling: bass, acoustic; Dick Titterington: cornet.

The Rebecca Kilgore Trio, Vol. 1

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Dan Barrett, Rebecca Kilgore, Eddie Erickson, Joel Forbes - Watch Out!

Styles: Jazz, Hard Bop
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 69:50
Size: 162,2 MB
Art: Front

(4:52) 1. This Could Be The Start Of Something Big
(3:22) 2. Lazy River
(4:25) 3. Lonely Moments
(4:30) 4. It Takes Time
(3:47) 5. In a Little Gipsy Tea Room
(4:42) 6. The Pearls
(4:26) 7. Im An Old Cowhand
(4:30) 8. There I've Said It Again
(3:09) 9. Bye Bye Baby
(3:26) 10. The Waiter and The Porter and the Upstairs Maid
(4:38) 11. Rockin' Chair
(4:05) 12. When You and I Were Young Maggie Blues
(3:08) 13. Watch Out
(4:18) 14. A Hundred Years From Today
(3:08) 15. Skrontch
(5:26) 16. Canadian Sunset
(3:52) 17. Fugue For Tinhorns

The cover of this CD features the foursome known as BED wearing very serious, almost menacing facial expressions. So...Watch Out! (The inside photos are much less threatening). Once again, the quartet has mined rich, largely-forgotten material from America’s great musical past. Where else could you go to hear The Waiter, The Porter, And The Upstairs Maid? Or how about Duke Ellington’s hip tribute to a Harlem dance step: Skrontch? Dan, Eddie, and Joel offer their take on Jelly Roll Morton’s one-of- a-kind composition, The Pearls. Rebecca calls their hand, and raises the pot with her Western Swing version of I’m An Old Cowhand. There are many other terrific selections in this special collection of seventeen songs. https://danbarrett.bandcamp.com/album/watch-out

Personnel: Rebecca Kilgore Vocals; Dan Barrett Trombone; Eddie Erickson Guitar; Joel Forbes Bass

Watch Out!

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Enric Peidro & Jonathan Stout - Sweet as Bear Meat

Styles: Saxophone And Guitar Jazz
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 51:49
Size: 121,1 MB
Art: Front

(3:39) 1. It shouldn't happen to a dream
(2:52) 2. Exactly Like You
(4:12) 3. My Heart Stood Still
(5:21) 4. Sweet As Bear Meat
(4:16) 5. Black Velvet
(3:31) 6. Johnny Come Lately
(3:28) 7. Memories Of You
(3:39) 8. Frisky
(3:10) 9. Let The Zoomers Drool
(3:51) 10. Taps Miller
(3:04) 11. Once In a While
(4:00) 12. Surf Board
(3:41) 13. When You're Smiling
(2:58) 14. I Never Knew

In today's world of barnstorming Big Band dance groups and conservatory modern jazz ensembles, it can be easy to forget the laid-back side of Swing. The breathy, reedy, after-hours lilting of sax greats like Prez, Hodges, and Webster. The intimate musical conversations of virtuosos chilling like close friends, like family. The rhythm section sitting so far in the pocket you either want to get up and dance, or just lean back, sip a cocktail, and float in it. Enric Peidro and Jonathan Stout have clearly not forgotten. Peidro, as usual, plays the "plumbing" like butter, and Stout, unsurprisingly, turns his guitar into the perfect companion. They lilt, they swing, they chill like family. This album is 14 beautiful, living, small-group swing songs, with all the glory of modern fidelity, and the passion of new voices honoring their pioneers. It's not just music for dancing it's music for dancing effortlessly. https://enricpeidro.bandcamp.com/album/sweet-as-bear-meat

Personnel: Enric Peidro: Tenor sax; Jonathan Stout : Acoustic and electric guitar; Richard Busiakiewicz: Piano; Andrés Lizón: Bass; Simone Zaniol: Drums

Sweet as Bear Meat

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Ernie Krivda & The Fat Tuesday Big Band - The Band That Swings

Styles: Saxophone Jazz, Big Band
Year: 1999
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 43:09
Size: 99,4 MB
Art: Front

(4:25)  1. 'S Wonderful
(3:07)  2. Under Paris Skies
(3:06)  3. One O' Clock Jump
(2:21)  4. Sunny Side Of The Street
(2:50)  5. I Should Care
(4:32)  6. Undecided
(3:41)  7. Boogie Blues
(2:17)  8. Watch What Happens
(8:03)  9. Irv's At Midnight
(2:32) 10. Thou Swell
(3:06) 11. Vine Street Rumble
(1:52) 12. Apple Honey
(1:08) 13. Melancholy Serenade

Tenor saxophonist Ernie Krivda has been a favorite of jazz audiences in his native Cleveland, Ohio for some time, but wider recognition has unjustly eluded him. His fourth CD for Koch (and second with the Fat Tuesday Big Band) is a masterpiece of swing with a nice mix of choice arrangements and plenty of hot solos. A very refreshing take of "'S Wonderful" avoids the obvious paths, while Ernie Wilkins' Basie-era chart of "One O'Clock Jump" is in good hands with Krivda and his band. Krivda adds a campy vocal to "On The Sunny Side of the Street" and wrote the Basieflavored "Irv's at Midnight" as well. This is a very fun date worth picking up. ~ Ken Dryden   http://www.allmusic.com/album/band-that-swings-mw0000667774.

Personnel: Ernie Krivda (vocals, tenor saxophone); George Shernit (alto saxophone, flute, clarinet); Dave Sterner (alto saxophone); Chirs Burge, Tom First (tenor saxophone); Dick Ingersoll (baritone saxophone); Keith Powell, Joe Miller, Steve Enos, Brad Goode (trumpet); Garney Hicks, George Carr, Chris Anderson (trombone); Paul Abel (bass trombone); Joe Hunter (piano); Lee Bush (guitar); Sherry Luchetti (bass); Rick Porrello (drums).

The Band That Swings

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Bob Mintzer - Horn Man

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 1982
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 34:17
Size: 79,4 MB
Art: Front

(4:25)  1. Horn Man
(4:47)  2. Just In Case
(4:14)  3. Latin Boogie
(3:38)  4. Whole Wheat Groove
(5:13)  5. Fancy Pants
(6:00)  6. Sambosis
(4:47)  7. Truth
(1:08)  8. Farewell

A versatile soloist influenced by Michael Brecker on tenor, Bob Mintzer gained experience playing with Deodato, Tito Puente (1974), Buddy Rich, Hubert Laws, and the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Orchestra (1977). In addition to leading his own bands starting in 1978, Mintzer worked with Jaco Pastorius, Mike Mainieri, Louie Bellson, Bob Moses, and the American Saxophone Quartet. He has guested with several philharmonic orchestras and led a fine big band in New York since the mid-'80s. Mintzer, a member of the Yellowjackets since 1991 (where his bass clarinet in particular adds a great deal of color to the group), recorded regularly for DMP for a decade before moving to TVT for 1998's Quality Time. Homage to Count Basie followed in fall 2000. Live at MCG, which featured vocalist Kurt Elling, and Old School New Lessons, both of which were benefit albums for the Manchester Craftsmen's Guild in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, appeared in 2004 and 2006, respectively. In 2007, Mintzer released the small group session In the Moment. He returned to a big-band setting for 2008's Swing Out and 2012's For the Moment. ~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/artist/bob-mintzer-mn0000765221/biography

Horn Man

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Kristin Korb - In The Meantime

Styles: Vocal Jazz
Year: 2009
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 52:07
Size: 120,3 MB
Art: Front

(4:42)  1. Lucky To Be Me
(4:01)  2. I Got It Bad
(5:17)  3. You Fascinate Me So
(2:50)  4. Lover Come Back To Me
(5:52)  5. Ain't Misbehavin'
(5:39)  6. Better Than Anything
(7:54)  7. Tears Of The Sun
(4:52)  8. Love Walked In
(5:27)  9. If I Am Ever Yours
(5:28) 10. Tomorrow's Another Day

This doesn’t have to be a stressful time, biting our fingernails, waiting for things to happen. Today, you could make a new friend, drive down the coast and feel the wind in your hair, or bump into the love of your life. Good stuff is just a moment away. Be open to the change, and walk into it singing. Kristin Korb’s CD: In The Meantime is meant to comfort, encourage, and elevate your spirit to be present in the world. It explores the adventures that can find you if you are open to them, in the meantime. What are you waiting for?  http://www.kristinkorb.com/album/in-the-meantime/

Personnel:  Llew Matthews (pn), Larry Koonse (g), Steve Barnes (d), Nick Mancini (v), Bob Sheppard (s),  Kristin Korb (vo)

In The Meantime

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Various - Swingin' Talkin' Verve

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 55:54
Size: 128.0 MB
Styles: Swing, Big Band
Year: 1998
Art: Front

[ 2:34] 1. Quincy Jones - Air Mail Special
[ 2:32] 2. Louis Jordan - Ain't Nobody Here But Us Chickens
[ 3:15] 3. Lionel Hampton - Flying Home
[ 3:16] 4. Buddy Rich - Dateless Brown
[ 3:19] 5. Gene Krupa Big Band - Let Me Off Uptown
[ 3:24] 6. Harry James & His Orchestra - Crazy Rhythm
[ 2:53] 7. Lionel Hampton - The Blues Ain't News To Me
[10:03] 8. Buddy Rich - Jumpin' At The Woodside
[ 2:23] 9. Harry James & His Orchestra - Back Beat Boogie
[ 3:15] 10. Louis Jordan - Is You Is Or Is You Ain't My Baby
[14:24] 11. Benny Goodman - Sing Sing Sing Pts. 1 & 2
[ 4:29] 12. Clarence 'Gatemouth' Brown - Caldonia

Verve was never much of a label for the kind of music that would sound familiar to those looking for a good swing revival compilation. Still, the label scoured its vaults and came up with Swingin' Talkin' Verve, a variant on their usual series of proto-acid jazz (read: soul-jazz, Afro-Cuban, jazz-funk, etc.). The results aren't bad at all, although several of the tracks don't date from the '40s golden age of swing. Included are Gene Krupa's "Let Me Off Uptown," Buddy Rich's "Jumpin' at the Woodside," Quincy Jones' "Air Mail Special," and Harry James' "Back Beat Boogie." ~Keith Farley

Swingin' Talkin' Verve

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Various - Patchwork: A Tribute To James Booker

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 59:31
Size: 136.3 MB
Styles: Jazz-blues
Year: 2003
Art: Front

[3:55] 1. Leigh Harris - All Around The World
[3:37] 2. Henry Butler - Dr. James
[4:29] 3. Josh Paxton - Papa Was A Rascal
[3:15] 4. Marcia Ball - If You're Lonely
[3:28] 5. Tom McDermott - Keep On Gwine
[5:14] 6. Leigh Harris - Please Send Me Someone To Love
[4:52] 7. Sandford Hinderlie - Angel Eyes
[4:03] 8. Josh Paxton - On The Sunny Side Of The Street
[2:35] 9. Marcia Ball - Classified
[3:37] 10. Tom McDermott - Pops Dilemma
[3:58] 11. Josh Paxton - Minuet In Funk
[3:09] 12. Marcia Ball - All By Myself
[4:03] 13. Henry Butler - Booker Time
[2:55] 14. Joe Krown - Miss Celie's Mood
[3:01] 15. Tom McDermott - One For Booker
[3:14] 16. Leigh Harris - Providence Provides

Certainly one of the most flamboyant New Orleans pianists in recent memory, James Carroll Booker III was a major influence on the local rhythm & blues scene in the '50s and '60s. Booker's training included classical instruction until age 12, by which time he had already begun to gain recognition as a blues and gospel organist on radio station WMRY every Sunday. By the time he was out of high school he had recorded on several occasions, including his own first release, "Doing the Hambone," in 1953. In 1960, he made the national charts with "Gonzo," an organ instrumental, and over the course of the next two decades played and recorded with artists as varied as Lloyd Price, Aretha Franklin, Ringo Starr, the Doobie Brothers, and B.B. King. In 1967, he was convicted of possession of heroin and served a one-year sentence at Angola Penitentiary (referred to as the "Ponderosa"), which took the momentum out of an otherwise promising career. The rediscovery of "roots" music by college students during the '70s (focusing primarily on "Fess" by Professor Longhair) provided the opportunity for a comeback by 1974, with numerous engagements at local clubs like Tipitina's, The Maple Leaf, and Snug Harbor. As with "Fess," Booker's performances at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festivals took on the trappings of legendary "happenings," and he often spent his festival earnings to arrive in style, pulling up to the stage in a rented Rolls Royce and attired in costumes befitting the "Piano Prince of New Orleans," complete with a cape. Such performances tended to be unpredictable: he might easily plant some Chopin into a blues tune or launch into a jeremiad on the CIA with all the fervor of a "Reverend Ike-meets-Moms Mabley" tag-team match.

Patchwork:A Tribute To James Booker 

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Lawrence Sieberth - New New Orleans

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 2014
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 51:01
Size: 117,6 MB
Art: Front

(5:26) 1. St. Louis Blues
(5:43) 2. New Orleans
(3:43) 3. We All Scream for Ice Cream
(3:55) 4. Buddy Bolden's Blues
(4:28) 5. Do You Know What It Means
(4:08) 6. Bald Head
(3:12) 7. Up a Lazy River
(4:05) 8. I Can't Get Started
(3:55) 9. Beale Street Blues
(5:03) 10. Amazing Grace
(4:07) 11. Keep On G'wine
(3:10) 12. On the Sunny Side of the Street

Personnel: Lawrence Sieberth – Piano

Larry Sieberth has been an ace sideman on the local modern jazz scene for decades, rarely drawing attention to himself despite consistently tasty work. In recent years he’s been plumbing traditional jazz waters and now we have this album of traditional solo piano. All cuts here are from the trad jazz canon save the James Booker-affiliated “Keep on Gwine” and Professor Longhair’s “Bald Head.” Booker is the main stylistic influence, with more modern touches appearing only here and there on the intros. All in all, this is a very suave affair, and whets the appetite for more Sieberth piano work. In the meantime, check out his playing on the Booker tribute on STR from a few years ago, Patchworks a pair of rambunctious duets with Leigh Harris that are among the finest tracks she ever recorded. https://www.louisianamusicfactory.com/product/lawrence-sieberth-new-new-orleans/

New New Orleans

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Lillian Boutté - Music is My Life

Styles: Vocal
Year: 1989
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 42:59
Size: 100,0 MB
Art: Front

(2:32) 1. Hey Bartender
(4:07) 2. Music Is My Life
(3:32) 3. Georgia Grind
(4:11) 4. I Cried for You
(4:03) 5. For All We Know
(3:56) 6. All of Me
(3:26) 7. Cakewalking Babies from Home
(3:28) 8. Go Back Whree You Stayed Last Night
(5:35) 9. He Touched Me
(4:19) 10. This Little Light of Mine
(3:45) 11. Am I Blue

The title of this CD, Music Is My Life, is an apt summation of the life of songstress Lillian Boutte. She and her husband,Thomas L'Etienne, who plays alto and tenor saxophone and clarinet in her band, have spent thousands of hours on the road in Europe, performing gospel and traditional jazz. Boutte, who is from New Orleans, was born and bred in that tradition. She first toured Europe as a star in the musical One Mo'Time, married a German musician ,and settled in Hamburg, Germany. Her husband, like many Europeans, holds traditional jazz and its makers in reverence. The other members of her music friends, as she calls them, are also Europeans. They include Hans Knudsenon piano, Arild Holm on banjo, Bob Culverhouse on bass, and Loren Houlind on drums. The play list on this CD is a mix of popular standards, blues, and gospel, all done up in Boutte's jazzy style. She takes a song like "All of Me" and turns it into a work of jazz art. Her rendition of "He Touched Me" reflects the depth of her feeling for her gospel roots. The ballads "I Cried for You" and "For All We Know" are perfect vehicles for showcasing the soft and subtle way that the vocalist engages in a song."Go Back Where You Stayed Last Night" shows her bluesy side. One can understand upon hearing Lillian Boutte sing why music is her life.~ Sharon Witmer https://www.allmusic.com/album/music-is-my-life-mw0000616054

Music is My Life

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Curtis Fuller - Jazz...It's Magic

Styles: Trombone Jazz
Year: 2014
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 40:15
Size: 92,7 MB
Art: Front

( 4:53) 1. Two Ton
(13:43) 2. Medley ; a) It's Magic b) My One And Only c) They Didn't Believe Me
( 5:44) 3. Soul Station
( 7:18) 4. Club Car
( 8:35) 5. Upper Berth

Trombonist Curtis Fuller's recordings for Savoy in the 1950s, like those of labelmates Hank Mobley, Milt Jackson, Wilbur Harden, Donald Byrd, and others, were prototypes in the development of hard bop. The next stage would come with the subsequent work of many of the same artists for Blue Note, where improved recording technique, greater attention to writing and arranging, and a more generous policy with respect to preparation and rehearsal time helped bring in the classic hard bop era of the late '50s and early '60s. On Fuller's Jazz...It's Magic!, the hard bop prototype is still under refinement, but it's easy to enjoy the music in its essential elements: elegant, bluesy melodies; earthy, yet sophisticated, solo work; and fresh treatments of standards. For this 1957 date, Fuller is joined by the appealingly urbane Tommy Flanagan (piano), the versatile Louis Hayes (drums), and George Tucker (bass), whose loping but solid style resembles Paul Chambers'. Joining the trombonist in the frontline is the relatively obscure alto player Sonny Red, who has a clean, expressive, melodic approach to the Charlie Parker legacy that provides many of this CD's best moments. Three Fuller originals, Frank Foster's "Upper Berth," and a medley of ballad standards make up the program. If there are any misgivings about the album, it would be the long medley (over 13 minutes), which drags on the overall pace. That said, Red's and Flanagan's solo spots on the medley are superb, but the listener's attention can be expected to wander by the time the trombonist finally steps up for his three choruses.~ Jim Todd https://www.allmusic.com/album/jazzits-magic%21-mw0000232650

Personnel: Curtis Fuller – trombone; Sonny Red – alto saxophone; Tommy Flanagan – piano; George Tucker – bass; Louis Hayes – drums

Jazz...It's Magic

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Willie Jones III - Fallen Heroes

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 49:42
Size: 114,8 MB
Art: Front

(3:58) 1. Something for Ndugu
(3:39) 2. Fallen Hero
(4:42) 3. C.T.A.
(3:56) 4. Trust
(6:19) 5. Truthful Blues
(8:36) 6. Annika's Lullaby
(6:06) 7. To Wisdom, the Prize
(7:01) 8. I've Just Seen Her
(5:20) 9. Jackin' for Changes

Drummer Willie Jones III just keeps on winning us over more and more with each new release serving up his own music on his own label, and really keeping a strong fire burning throughout! The set begins with a strong drum solo, dedicated to Ndugu Chancler but right after that, Willie holds strong as a very powerful leader commanding a great array of talent in the group, in the way that Art Blakey might have during the classic Jazz Messengers years! Like Blakey, Jones seems to bring out a special sort of spirit in the musicians a great lineup that includes George Cables on piano, Steve Davis on trombone, Jeremy Pelt on trumpet, and both Sherman Irby and Justin Robinson on alto playing in shifting lineups, but always keeping things strong as the group moves through tunes by Larry Willis, Jimmy Heath, Jeremy Pelt, and Jones himself. Renee Neufville turns in a great vocal performance on "Trust" and other tunes include "Something For Ndugu", "Fallen Hero", "CTA", "Annika's Lullaby", and "To Wisdom The Prize". © 1996-2021, Dusty Groove, Inc. https://www.dustygroove.com/item/980251

Personnel: Willie Jones III drums; Jeremy Pelt trumpet; Sherman Irby alto saxophone; George Cables piano; Gerald Cannon bass,Steve Davis trombone (6); Justin Robinson alto saxophone (9); Isaiah Thompson piano (9); Renee Neufville vocals (4).

Fallen Heroes

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BED (Dan Barrett/Rebecca Kilgore/Eddie Erickson) - Four + 1

Styles: Trombone, Vocal And Guitar Jazz, Swing
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 60:34
Size: 139,7 MB
Art: Front

(2:45) 1. I've heard that song before
(3:47) 2. This can't be love
(7:41) 3. East of the sun
(3:33) 4. Jubilee
(3:39) 5. Cheek to cheek
(4:38) 6. Say it over and over again
(3:41) 7. The hucklebuck
(4:03) 8. You can't lose a broken heart
(5:12) 9. Midnight in Moscow
(4:30) 10. You're a lucky guy
(4:31) 11. Cross your heart
(3:31) 12. The best things in life are free
(3:04) 13. Seven lonely days
(2:44) 14. Drum booguie
(3:08) 15. I'll see you in my dreams

This fun and interesting set of swinging American songs brings together five close friends who share a fondness for good tunes played with heart, and a swinging beat. BED is an acronym formed by Becky, Eddie, and Dan, three of the four members of that special quartet. (Bassist Joel Forbes is the fourth member of the troupe). BED eventually changed its funny name to honor their default leader, vocalist Rebecca “Becky” Kilgore. The group now performs as the Rebecca Kilgore Quartet. For this session, Becky, Eddie Erickson, Dan Barrett, and Joel Forbes invited their good friend Jeff Hamilton to join them on drums.

Please note there are at least two terrific drummers who share that name. This particular Jeff grew up in New Orleans, and absorbed that city’s special regard for rhythm from the musicians he heard and with whom he performed around town. Additionally, Jeff studied with the great Cie Frazier, who for many years was the drummer with the original Preservation Hall Jazz Band! Over the years, Jeff’s approach has evolved into a very personal mix of New Orleans and later swing styles. He’s a perfect fit for his like-minded colleagues in the Rebecca Kilgore Quartet. In addition to Becky’s beautiful singing and Jeff’s tasty time-keeping, Four + 1 also features vocals by Eddie Erickson. Eddie also shines here in masterful guitar work, and several hip, swinging plectrum banjo solos.

In the competitive jazz scene of New York City, Joel Forbes was at the top of the list of great jazz bassists. A long-time friend of Dan Barrett’s Joel contributes consistently propulsive bass lines, and several horn-like solos. Finally, Dan Barrett displays his usual élan in his trombone solos, and in his thoughtful backgrounds behind each of the singers. For the old favorite Midnight In Moscow, Dan puts down the trombone, and plays cornet. If that isn’t enough, he moves over to the piano to back Becky and Eddie on a rollicking version of The Hucklebuck! Don’t miss this great set of swinging vocal and instrumental jazz! https://danbarrett.bandcamp.com/album/four-1

Personnel: Rebecca Kilgore Vocals; Dan Barrett Trombone; Eddie Erickson Guitar, Banjo; Joel Forbes Bass

Four + 1

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Melissa Errico - Legrand Affair (Deluxe Edition)

Styles: Vocal
Year: 2019
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 122:37
Size: 283,2 MB
Art: Front

(4:37) 1. I Was Born in Love with You
(5:39) 2. The Summer Knows
(6:08) 3. His Eyes, Her Eyes
(5:11) 4. The Windmills of Your Mind
(4:09) 5. I Will Wait for You
(3:45) 6. In Another Life
(2:39) 7. Martina
(2:44) 8. Dis moi
(4:52) 9. You Must Believe in Spring
(5:37) 10. What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life?
(4:14) 11. How Do You Keep the Music Playing?
(4:45) 12. Something New in My Life
(4:14) 13. Maybe Someone Dreamed Us
(4:58) 14. Once Upon a Summertime
(2:55) 15. Celui-la
(5:03) 16. I Haven't Thought of This in Quite A While
(3:35) 17. Little Boy Lost
(3:47) 18. What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life? - Guitar Duo
(4:17) 19. The Way He Makes Me Feel
(4:47) 20. Hurry Home
(4:23) 21. Something New in My Life - Demo
(4:37) 22. Maybe Someone Dreamed Us - Demo
(4:50) 23. The Summer Knows - Demo
(6:29) 24. Once Upon a Summertime - Demo
(5:59) 25. The Windmills of Your Mind - Demo
(3:09) 26. Dis moi - Demo
(5:04) 27. Michel & Melissa at Work

A re-release of Melissa Errico’s album Legrand Affair further deepens her exceptional relationship to Michel Legrand’s songbook

“The time will come when all the waiting’s done”

I can’t pretend to be anywhere near objective about the music of Michel Legrand, it just touches my soul in the most intimate, indescribable way, so naturally the news of his death at the beginning of the year was devastating. And it is apparent that he inspires such devotion from many others too, most notably US Tony nominee Melissa Errico. Her 2011 album Legrand Affair was a real labour of love, recorded over a number of years with Legrand and the Brussels Philharmonic. And it deservedly established her as such a first-rate interpreter of his material that she has been called upon to participate many of the memorials that have celebrated his legacy this year. So the choice to release a deluxe edition of the album with 12 new tracks – demos and sketches, new recordings and incredibly, the last song Legrand ever composed feels entirely justified. It proves an unexpected but much-welcome addition to an already superb collection. With music of this quality, there’s something beautiful about the luxury of being able to bathe in the lushness of these orchestrations, and it isn’t often that you long for instrumental breaks in a vocal album but here, they are just dreamy to a fault. The interlude in ‘His Eyes, Her Eyes’ stands out, along with that new track ‘I Haven’t Thought of This in Quite a While’. The additional demos are fun, if not quite essential, given the masterly originals earlier in the album but as the last crumbs available from this superlative collaboration, they’re well worth the investment. https://oughttobeclowns.com/2019/12/album-review-melissa-errico-legrand-affair-deluxe-edition.html/

Legrand Affair (Deluxe Edition)

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Kristin Korb - What's Your Story?

Styles: Vocal Jazz
Year: 2013
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 52:20
Size: 120,4 MB
Art: Front

(4:30)  1. Will You Still Be Mine
(5:14)  2. Flamingo
(4:42)  3. Traveling Groove Merchant
(3:27)  4. Doralice
(4:27)  5. What's Your Story Morning Glory
(4:07)  6. Don't Fence Me In
(3:16)  7. Them There Eyes
(3:13)  8. Moments Like This
(5:09)  9. Red Wagon
(3:54) 10. Green Dolphin Street
(4:59) 11. Always Searching for My Baby
(5:16) 12. I Wanna Be Loved

Though many a fine bassist Jay Leonhart, John Miller and Clipper Anderson among them occasionally sings, Kristin Korb numbers among the rare few who excel at both. When Korb launched her recording career in 1996, she ceded bass duties to her mentor and hero, Ray Brown. Since then, across five albums including What’s Your Story?, she has accompanied herself, maintaining a distinctly Brown-tinged bass style. As a singer, the Montana-born Korb seems of the same school as Tierney Sutton (who hails from Nebraska), her sunny wide-openness enticingly shaded by a faraway hint of dark clouds. And though Korb tends to be vocally looser than Sutton, they also share an ability to sidle up to a song, size it up and, with vaguely cynical cautiousness, nail its emotional heart. Working in the sparest settings since 2004’s Get Happy, Korb fronts a piano-less trio featuring drummer Jeff Hamilton and guitarist Bruce Forman for a wide-ranging dozen tracks. 

As always, the focus is on standards, including a saucy “Red Wagon,” a loping “Don’t Fence Me In,” a sultry “Flamingo” and a tender “Moments Like This” worthy of Peggy Lee. Korb’s fog-bound “On Green Dolphin Street” best showcases the solidity of her bass skills. And songwriter Amber Navran’s sly, slightly stalker-ish “Always Searching for My Baby,” which finds Korb in freewheeling Annie Ross-meets-Joni Mitchell territory, demonstrates how superbly she can navigate more contemporary material. ~ Christopher Loudon  http://jazztimes.com/articles/96916-what-s-your-story-kristin-korb

Personnel:  Kristin Korb - Bass / Vocals; Bruce Forman – Guitar; Jeff Hamilton - Drums

What's Your Story?

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Trijntje Oosterhuis - Walk Along

Styles: Vocal
Year: 2015
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 39:38
Size: 91,1 MB
Art: Front

(4:27) 1. The Choice I've Made
(3:33) 2. I Believe In You
(3:16) 3. Weather In April
(3:44) 4. One Way Or Another
(5:10) 5. I Don't Miss You
(3:17) 6. Broken Alone
(3:03) 7. Pick It Up Slowly
(3:14) 8. What Can I Say
(2:50) 9. My Everyday Angel
(3:53) 10. Your Soul Is Gone
(3:05) 11. Walk Along

The Netherlands have really turned their Eurovision fortunes round as of late. After a dry spell of 9 years failing to qualify for the final of Eurovision, Anouk’s ‘Birds’ finished in 9th place in 2013 and then last year the Common Linnets’ ‘Calm After the Storm’ took second place. This year the Dutch entry sees veteran female pop and jazz singer and The Voice coach Trijntje Oosterhuis take centre stage with her song ‘Walk Along’. Read on to see what we made of the song. ‘Walk Along’ is co-written by Oosterhuis and one of her close friends and former Eurovision contestant Anouk. The song seems to focus on a woman of a certain age who is craving the attention of a younger man who isn’t returning her interest in him. This comes out in the song’s lyrics- ‘I can’t seem to get you to look at me one day…this is not a little crush…’ This theme is highlighted again the black and white video which accompanies the song with Oosterhuis doing her best embarrassing mum dancing while a younger tattooed man struts around in the background in a suits, in a hat and at times topless. The song itself is a zesty, uplifting, uptempo number with a decent refrain of ‘Why? Why I I I I, Won’t you walk along, walk along babaaay!’ Apart from that the song doesn’t really stand out from the crowd and I think that Trijntje will struggle to recreate the Netherlands recent track record at Eurovision. What do you think? Let us know by commenting below and voting in our poll. https://eurovisionni.wordpress.com/2015/05/01/review-netherlands-trijntje-oosterhuis-walk-along-2/

Walk Along

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Tim Laughlin, Connie Jones - If Dreams Come True

Styles: Clarinet And Cornet Jazz
Year: 2018
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 69:57
Size: 162,2 MB
Art: Front

(4:44) 1. It's Been so Long
(5:48) 2. If You Were the Only Girl in the World
(6:46) 3. Wang Wang Blues
(5:56) 4. It's Wonderful
(6:17) 5. If Dreams Come True
(5:06) 6. Tears
(5:23) 7. New Orleans and a Rusty Old Horn
(5:09) 8. My Buddy
(5:12) 9. Tishomingo Blues
(7:04) 10. Si Tu Vois Ma Mere
(5:56) 11. It's a Wonderful World
(6:30) 12. The Best Thing for You Would Be Me

Another jazz gem from one of New Orleans' favorite clarinetists Tim Laughlin. Laughlin's soaring, velvety clarinet is complemented by Connie Jones bright cornet and mellow vocals. Playful, evocative and quite simply lovely, this release is like pouring New Orleans into a tall glass to be sipped slowly in the garden...Opiniones Editoriales https://www.amazon.com/Dreams-Come-True-Tim-Laughlin/dp/B004T3JJBU

Personnel: Tim Laughlin, clarinet; Connie Jones, cornet/vocals; John Sheridan, piano; Ed Wise, bass; Danny Coots, drums; Larry Scala, guitar

If Dreams Come True

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Dan Barrett And Rebecca Kilgore - "Being A Bear"

Styles: Vocal And Trombone Jazz
Year: 2007
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 68:10
Size: 158,4 MB
Art: Front

(3:22) 1. Being A Bear
(5:31) 2. The Jam Song
(5:49) 3. The Music Goes Round And Round
(4:11) 4. This Old Man
(2:36) 5. Copey´s Lament
(2:50) 6. Sing, Sing, Sing
(5:58) 7. Ursa The Blues
(6:52) 8. Mama Don´t Allow
(3:50) 9. Animation
(4:48) 10. You Must Have Been A Beautiful Baby
(3:36) 11. Swingin´ In The Dell
(4:32) 12. Rhythm In My Nursery Rhymes
(4:58) 13. The Isle Of Capri
(4:13) 14. At The Jazz Bears Jamboree
(4:58) 15. Little Man, You´ve Had A Busy Day

There have been many attempts through the years to record a jazz set for children, but usually the music is either too complex or too childish, not achieving its purpose. The music on this particular CD was written to be used for a full-length animated film called The Jazz Bears. Most of the melodies (except for five originals) are pretty familiar and simple, but the solos are topnotch and colorful. The vocals (particularly those of the great Rebecca Kilgore) are swinging and charming. Although the opening, "Being a Bear," may make one think that this CD is only for children, it will be easy for adults who are fans of mainstream swing to enjoy this project. Dan Barrett (who arranged many of the pieces) is a versatile trombonist, and his vocal on "You Must Have Been a Beautiful Baby" is surprisingly effective. Trumpeter Spanky Davis (who has long been underrated) has quite a few hot solos, Scott Robinson (best on baritone and bass sax) is always impressive, and Jim Galloway's soprano is another asset. Recommended, for children and their jazz-loving parents alike.

Musicians: Dan Barrett - leader, trombone and vocals; Spanky Davis - trumpet, vocals; Jim Galloway - soprano sax, baritone sax; - clarinet, baritone sax, bass sax, bass clarinet, alto sax; John Sheridan - piano; Paul Keller - bass; Jeff Hamilton - drums; Rebecca Kilgore - vocals, guitar

Being A Bear

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Lillian Boutté - Let Them Talk

Styles: Vocal
Year: 1986
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 49:03
Size: 113,7 MB
Art: Front

(3:48) 1. Tennessee Waltz
(7:17) 2. Let Them Talk
(4:42) 3. I Still Get Jealous
(6:02) 4. He's Funny That Way
(2:56) 5. Bugle Call Rag
(3:38) 6. Love
(4:54) 7. I Surrender Dear
(3:53) 8. Traveller's Tune
(8:38) 9. Nobody Knows the Trouble I've Seen
(3:11) 10. Who Rolled the Stone Away

When singer Lillian Boutté was named “New Orleans Musical Ambassador” in 1986, she was the second jazz legend in the city's history to be accorded this honor - the first having been none other than Louis Armstrong. “Ambassador Lillian” is a loquacious and outspoken defender of her hometown. She has been working extensively to help Katrina victims, doing benefits and organizing relief funds for musicians, many of whom have lost everything. Also very active in this cause is her brother John Boutté a highly heralded singer in his own right and possessor of one of the finest voices in America. The siblings grew up in the Seventh Ward along with eight other sisters and brothers, steeped in the neighborhood culture of the city that is now threatened by extinction in the wake of Katrina.

It has always been Lillian's driving desire to bring the musical heartbeat of her home town nearer to the ears of the world. Over a timeframe of twenty years and with the backing of her albums featuring jazz, pop, blues, soul and gospel, she has succeeded in conveying the city's unique atmosphere to an international audience. For this extended period, she has been touring almost nonstop, doing concerts, club dates and festivals all over the world. Music was Lillian's life right from the start. At the tender age of 11, she won her first singing contest. During her musical studies at New Orleans' Xavier University, she sang in the gospel choir, before being discovered by Allen Toussaint, who used her as a background singer when producing the likes of James Booker, Patti Labelle, the Neville Brothers, the Pointer Sisters and Dr. John.

Then she went on a five-year world tour as an actor, singer and dancer in the musical “One Mo' Time”. At the same time, she made her first solo recordings, and could be seen in two movies: alongside Professor Longhair, Allen Toussaint and Tuts Washington in the critically-acclaimed Stevenson-Pallifi documentary “Piano Players Barely Play Together”, and in a bit part in Alan Parker's “Angel Heart”. Together with blues legend Brownie McGee, she can also be heard on the soundtrack of that movie. Lillian also sang at the Tennessee Williams memorial service in St. Louis cathedral in her native New Orleans, and America's high and mighty were treated to her interpretation of the national anthem in the Superdome. In 1992 she spearheaded 45 of her New Orleans music friends and brought the sounds of Cajun, Soul, R & B, Gospel traditional N.O. Brassbands and as well New Orleans cuisine to 22 cities in Germany under the title SPIRIT OF LOUISIANA. In 1993 she originated the project Gospel United in co-operation with 2 Danish organizers, where she was able to show her musical and social influences.

Lillian Boutté worked with local legend Dr. John, with whom she produced the albums “The Jazz Book,” in 1993, and “But...Beautiful,” in 1995. Together with Munich pianist and singer Christian Willisohn, Lillian Boutté recorded the albums “Lipstick Traces,” (’92) “Come Together,” and album “You've Gotta Love Pops,” in 2000. She also released “Music Is My Life,” in 2000. Critics have compared Lillian Boutté with Bessie Smith, Aretha Franklin and Mahalia Jackson. In Europe, where she established a residence, she and her husband Thomas L'Etienne and her band “Music Friends” have already aquired a large following. Her newest show and record “That Don't Keep Me From Cookin In A 'Gumbo Pot '” is a tribute to New Orleans music with the sounds of Sassafras, Mardi Gras, funky creole blues, smoky bars and jumpin' jazz featuring 'new' New Orleans songs by Phil Parnell, Lillian Boutte, Ed Frank and others. An internationally acclaimed Jazz, Gospel and Blues singer,Lillian's unique charismatic personality, stunning voice and love for the music encapsulate an unforgettable experience for anyone who can appreciate a genuine artist. https://musicians.allaboutjazz.com/lillianboutt

Let Them Talk

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Enric Peidro & Jonathan Stout - Groove at First Sight

Styles: Saxophone,Guitar Jazz, Swing
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 42:39
Size: 99,7 MB
Art: Front

(3:29) 1. Shivers
(4:14) 2. Surrender Dear
(3:38) 3. Soft Winds
(3:36) 4. Squatty Roo
(3:45) 5. Six Appeal
(3:05) 6. Sunday
(3:49) 7. El Salon de Gutbucket
(4:05) 8. On the Sunny Side of the Street
(3:07) 9. Jacquet in the Box
(4:28) 10. If I Had You
(2:51) 11. Coquette
(2:26) 12. Esquire Jump

The names of Jonathan Stout and Enric Peidro sure sound very familiar to the swing fans all over the world: Both are not only well-known musicians, highly respected players on their respective instruments, but also experienced bandleaders in their own right: Stout, based in California leads the Campus Five, one of the most in-demand bands at Lindy Hop and dance Festivals all over the world. From his headquarters in the east coast of Spain, Peidro also travels internationally very often, either as a soloist or bringing his high voltage swing combo, the "Swingtet" to all kind of audiences.

In late autumnn 2019 Stout, responding to Peidro's invitation, came to Spain in between two Campus Five European gigs and joined Peidro's band for a string of gigs on a two-week tour over Spain. From their very first gig together, and never having met before, the sparks flew in between Stout and Peidro.The rapport and understanding they developed all over the tour, both in and out of the stage was really "Groove at first sight" as they have appropriately titled this Cd The album was recorded, -"In the old-fashioned way we'd like, in Peidro's words"- over a 5-hour recording session, with all the band "cookin'" together in one room, and with no edits at all.

In fact, most of the takes chosen for the album were first takes, for a solid reason: there were no second takes on half of the selections!!! The recording session was also taped on video.You can check the videos by clicking in the "video" link beside the title of each tune When listening to the Cd the understanding and rapport in between the two musicians as well as with Peidro's regular -and hard -swinging'!- rhythm section is more than obvious. Not in vain Stout and Peidro share a deep love, passion and respect for the very same musical language: the swing, classic jazz of the 30's and 40s. Consecuently, a good-natured, friendly vibe of mutual respect and relaxation, all wrapped up in a extremely laid-back atmosphere spices all the Cd from beginning to end, and for sure its a welcome addition to contemporary swing collections. https://enricpeidro.bandcamp.com/album/groove-at-first-sight

Personnel: Enric Peidro Tenor sax; Jonathan Stout Guitar; Richard Busiakiewicz Piano; Andrés Lizón Bass; Simone Zaniol Drums

Groove at First Sight

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Tim Laughlin - New Orleans: Mardi Gras & Bourbon Street

Size: 138,8 MB
Time: 59:14
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2017
Styles: New Orleans Jazz
Art: Front

01. Dumaine Street Strut (5:55)
02. My Poor Restless Heart (4:18)
03. Decatur Street Parade (5:00)
04. Clarinet Blues (5:39)
05. Ill See You Again (4:19)
06. Good Time In New Orleans (5:33)
07. Gentilly Stomp (5:08)
08. I Tried To Recall (5:52)
09. Dance Of The Magnolias (4:06)
10. New Orleans On Parade (3:50)
11. Twilight In New Orleans (5:10)
12. Roundabout (4:18)

One of the brightest of the New Orleans-based clarinetists to emerge during the 1990s, Tim Laughlin has made a strong impression on the trad jazz scene. He started playing clarinet when he was nine and, other than doubling on alto a bit in high school, he has stuck to clarinet throughout his career and considers his main influence to be Pete Fountain. Tim Laughlin had several opportunities to tour Europe (most notably Germany) in the late '90s, has been an important part of the New Orleans jazz scene (including several years with the Dukes of Dixieland) and led recording sessions for Good Time Jazz and Jazzology; two dates finds him matching wits with fellow clarinetists Jack Maheu and Tom Fischer. ~Scott Yanow

New Orleans

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Lucinda Belle - Think Big : Like Me

Styles: Vocal, Harp Jazz
Year: 2019
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 43:11
Size: 101,0 MB
Art: Front

(3:21) 1. Baby Don't Cry
(3:03) 2. Where Have All the Good Men Gone
(3:55) 3. I Believe
(2:06) 4. New Boy
(3:18) 5. Do Me Right
(2:38) 6. Do Your Time
(4:19) 7. My Only Lament
(3:28) 8. I'll Be Loving You
(3:27) 9. Time Won't Wait for You
(2:28) 10. Nothing Left to Do but Smile
(3:27) 11. The Other Side of You
(3:50) 12. Washed up on Love
(3:47) 13. Don't Go Chasing Your Heart

Oscar nominated singer-songwriter Lucinda Belle isn't the first to do what she does, but she may be among the most eclectic; the vocalist/harpist keeps tradition alive by feeding it with myriad influences. Though her vocal style and choice of instrumentation often suggest jazz, she reaches well beyond the idiom while staying true to its roots. Her most recent offering, Think Big: Like Me pulls from jazz, pop, reggae, doo-wop, R&B and hip-hop, among other styles, to create an engaging pastiche that retains Belle's strong compositional voice throughout. The end result is consistently interesting and satisfying, something at once familiar and novel.

Belle's voice is bold, full of personality with, on occasion, an edge, recalling modern songstress Amy Winehouse, but it has a sweetness as well, bringing to mind legends like Peggy Lee and Julie London. Tunes like the single "Baby Don't Cry" have her moving between both worlds in arrangement and performance. "Do Me Right" and "I Believe" are other examples; Belle's voice is full of drive when needed and, often in the upper register of her rich alto, sonorous and masterfully controlled when the moment calls for it.

The album jumps playfully from sparse and antique instrumentation to contemporary production and style, and more often than not the change happens within one song. "New Boy" alternates between voice and harp and a driving rhythm section, almost recalling neo-soul, to create something timeless from the styles of two vastly different times. "My Only Lament" keeps the accompaniment floaty and reminiscent of a classic production from the 1960s, while "I'll Be Loving You" harkens back to the 1950s. Just a few songs later is "The Other Side of You," which sounds like something that may have played on the radio circa 2010.

Belle says emphatically of Think Big, it's "a break up album!!! 'I'll Be Loving You' was my first song on the album,... I wrote it still crying from the break up... and I put 'Don't Go Chasing Your Heart' at the end of the album to represent the transition and realization I'd been through, throughout the process. There's something here for everyone I hope!" Indeed, Belle says it best when she says there is something here for everyone. From melody and harmony to lyrics to production, the album is strong and will benefit from multiple listens.~ Paul Naser https://www.allaboutjazz.com/think-big-like-me-lucinda-belle-self-produced-review-by-paul-naser__18294.php

Personnel: Lucinda Belle: vocal/harp; Esben Tjalve: piano, organ; Sheldon Conrich: acoustic guitar; Rich Hornby: electric guitar; Jay Darwish: double bass; Phil Groysboeck: drums.

Think Big : Like Me

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Norman Simmons - Midnight Creeper

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 2010
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 64:36
Size: 148,5 MB
Art: Front

(8:32) 1. Blackout
(8:53) 2. Midnight Creeper
(9:50) 3. Someday My Prince Will Come
(4:26) 4. I Fall In Love too Easily
(7:15) 5. Send In the Clowns
(6:25) 6. Emily
(7:42) 7. Turtle
(5:52) 8. Confirmation
(5:36) 9. Easy Livin'

A classic hard-bop blues riff, taken here at a medium slow tempo that rolls along. The head develops a two-measure riff that rises and quickly falls; the descending diminished arpeggio at the beginning of the tenth measure is a characteristically slick, Simmonsian touch. Norman kept the rhythmic set up of his intro the same for our three editions (lead sheets, Piano/Bass Duo and Solo Piano Arrangement); where it goes after the first measure, however, varies by the performance, as you can see by comparing our C treble clef lead sheet with the Solo Piano Arrangement and the Piano Duo part.Note that the lead sheets for the Al Grey "Fab" recording are exactly the same as the lead sheets available for this trio version. To prevent multiple purchases of the same lead sheet, the selection boxes will automatically be checked.Try it, it's easier to see it than explain it.

Norman's "Midnight Creeper" trio recording has a fade out ending, so for our lead sheets we've used the ending from Norman's arrangement for the Al Grey "Fab" recording. This is essentially the same as the ending you'll find in both the Solo Piano Arrangement and the Piano/Bass Duo arrangement, but again, careful comparison will show slight differences, which is part of what jazz is all about. Whether playing this in a trio format, as in this recording, or with additional melodic instruments also playing the melody, as in the Al Grey recording, or in a duo format, as in the recording with bassist Daryl Johns, the pianist's role is always to simulate block chords while playing the melody. Norman's Solo Piano Arrangement gives you everything written out, and also works perfectly for the pianist with whatever instrumentation you're using.

All our lead sheet editions also show the connecting grace notes that Norman plays on piano. Depending on the instrument, other instrumentalists should not be concerned trying to playing all these grace notes exactly as written, but it's nice to see what the pianist is playing so you can figure out the most effective way to make your notes gliss with the pianist's line. Pianists should also check out the description in the Piano Corner tab. The C bass clef edition is designed for the trombonist or other bass clef melody instruments. We recommend that bassists get the Bass part from the Piano/Bass Duo arrangement, which shows how bassist Daryl Johns dealt with the grace notes. Check out the Bass Corner tab on the Piano/Bass Duo recording for more details. https://jazzleadsheets.com/composers/norman-simmons.html

Midnight Creeper

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Brian Bromberg - A Little Driving Music

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 72:14
Size: 166,9 MB
Art: Front

(6:24) 1. Froggy’s
(6:31) 2. Quarantine
(5:24) 3. That Cool Groovy Beatnik Jazz
(5:08) 4. Bado Boy!
(5:22) 5. Walking on Sunshine
(5:21) 6. Sag 5 (As in Sagittarius)
(5:59) 7. A Rainy Day in Paris
(5:30) 8. A Little Driving Music
(5:15) 9. Peace
(6:56) 10. Jedediah’s Gold!
(5:28) 11. The Sitting Room
(5:40) 12. Baton Rouge
(3:10) 13. Lullaby for Bado

World-renowned bassist and producer Brian Bromberg finds inspiration during the pandemic with a funk driven album that conjures the spirit of the open road. 'A Little Driving Music' features an all-star socially distanced lineup of musicians including Dave Koz, Marion Meadows, Everette Harp, Elan Trotman, Gary Meek and Nick Colionne. 'A Little Driving Music' is Bromberg's third album created in quarantine, features a dozen brand-new Bromberg compositions as well as a surprising 80s cover song, the joyful Katrina and the Waves hit "Walking on Sunshine." The freedom of the open road on 'A Little Driving Music' shrugs off the prevailing mood of COVID-era claustrophobia and political strife for fun, funky paean to cruising with the top down and leaving your troubles behind. https://www.propermusic.com/art7077-a-little-driving-music.html

A Little Driving Music

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Lillian Boutté - Having a Good Time

Styles: Vocal
Year: 2013
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 63:09
Size: 147,6 MB
Art: Front

(4:59) 1. Mama's Gone, Goodbye (feat. Humphrey Lyttelton)
(3:26) 2. Smile
(5:41) 3. Let Them Talk
(4:28) 4. I'm Having a Good Time
(4:04) 5. Nuages
(3:49) 6. Absolutely Positive
(3:13) 7. That's the Way to Treat Your Woman (feat. Humphrey Lyttelton)
(4:19) 8. Is You Is or Is You Ain't My Baby (feat. Humphrey Lyttelton)
(4:33) 9. Try a Little Tenderness
(4:45) 10. Stagger Lee
(5:03) 11. A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square (feat. Humphrey Lyttelton)
(4:03) 12. You Brought a New Kind of Love to Me
(3:40) 13. You Send Me
(3:37) 14. The Trouble with Me Is You
(3:22) 15. Wolverine Blues

A versatile singer based in New Orleans, Lillian Boutte is capable of singing both New Orleans Dixieland standards and New Orleans R&B, swing-era tunes, and contemporary originals. She sang as a child (winning a vocal contest when she was 11), performed with her college's gospel choir, and then in 1973, was hired by Allen Toussaint as a backup singer for the many projects recorded in his studio. Boutte appeared as an actress and singer in the musical One Mo' Time during 1979-1984, recorded a gospel album with the Olympia Brass Band in 1980, and in 1982, made her first jazz album. Boutte has spent time alternating between living and performing in Europe and New Orleans, and she has been closely associated with reed player Thomas L'Etienne who usually leads her backup groups. Through the years, Lillian Boutte has recorded for many labels (mostly in Europe) including Herman, Feel the Jazz, High Society, Turning Point, Timeless, Southland, Storyville, GHB, Calligraph (with Humphrey Lyttelton), Blues Beacon, and Dinosaur Entertainment.~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/artist/lillian-boutt%C3%A9-mn0000291690/biography

Having a Good Time

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The International Classic Jazz All Stars - International Classic Jazz All Stars

Styles: Classic Jazz, Swing
Year: 2020
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 56:14
Size: 129,6 MB
Art: Front

(4:39) 1. Louise
(3:54) 2. L-O-V-E
(4:12) 3. C Jam Blues
(4:47) 4. The Night is Blue
(5:34) 5. As Time Goes By
(5:32) 6. The Blues I'd Forgotten
(4:44) 7. Strictly Instrumental
(6:13) 8. The Jeep is Jumpin'
(5:46) 9. The Billie Holiday Medley:I Cover the Waterfront/You've Changed
(3:14) 10. Take The A Train
(2:21) 11. The Sid Catlett Medley Thermo-Dynamics-Mop Mop
(7:34) 12. Wabash Blues

"This album is a must-have for any maistream jazz lover as there are not many chances to hear this kind of jazz nowadays, even less performed with such aplomb, taste and elegant creativity. The "dream team" line up includes such luminaries as american trombone legend Dan Barrett (Benny Goodman,Woody Herman, Buck Clayton among many others) who shines throughout the recording with his lyrical solos joined by the more than apt partner-in-crime Spanish tenorman Enric Peidro whose breathy, gorgeous sax sound and clever yet singable lines are the perfect counterpoint to Barrett's melodic approach. Its a pure joy to listen to Barrett and Peidro and their laid-back, conversation-like, unnassuming aproach wich makes you think on two old friends sharing a drink while chatting about their favourite movie or fishing spot. Australian bass player and singer Nicki Parrott greatly contributes to the overall results with her swinging bass lines, perfect note choice and timing, and also with a few vocals delivered with her usual class. British piano player Richard Busiakiewicz proves himself to be an outstanding musician: the way he comps to solos is simply brilliant, bringing to mind greats like Red Garland or Winton Kelly and his solos are both flawless and swingin all the way through.

To round up this extraordinary team, french drummer Guillaume Nouaux shows extensively why he's one of the best jazz (classic jazz if you want) drummers in the scene today: never too busy and always swingin with great savoir-faire (not in vain he's french!!) he proves himself a great soloist too, over the many solo spots he has in the recording.The choice of material is pretty well balanced in between lesser-known tunes as well as very popular material: is really something to hear how these brilliant musicians handle the challenge of playing some over-exposed numbers like "A" Train, C Jam blues, Love and a few others.No doubt as Count Basie once said: -its not the tune what really matters, but what you can do with it- Needless to say they get away with it with brilliance and a great deal of honesty too: all the recording transpires a great sense of well-natured camaraderie and friendship (the album was recorded after a long tour over Spain) and there's no fireworks or showing-off procedures.Just the opposite: what matters here is MUSIC with capital letters and sure there's a lot of that to be found in this extraordinary album.Enjoy listening and lets hope to have a second one soon! .(J.Steyner.Album liner notes) https://enricpeidro.bandcamp.com/album/international-classic-jazz-all-stars

Personnel: Dan Barrett Trombone.Vocals (7 only); Nicki Parrott Bass. Vocals on (2,5,7,10); Enric Peidro Tenor sax; Richard Busiakiewicz Piano; Guillaume Nouaux Drums

International Classic Jazz All Stars

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Paul Bollenback - Double Gemini

Styles: Guitar Jazz
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 60:39
Size: 139,8 MB
Art: Front

(7:35) 1. Breaking the Girl
(6:02) 2. After the Love Has Gone
(7:53) 3. Double Gemini
(5:09) 4. Reflections of Jaco
(6:41) 5. Let Her Cry
(6:51) 6. So Many Stars
(5:45) 7. Open Hand
(6:03) 8. Field of Gold
(4:57) 9. I Am Singin'
(3:41) 10. Cat's Eye

Other than Sergio Mendes' "So Many Stars," the music on this CD will probably be quite unfamiliar to most jazz listeners. In addition to four originals by the leader-guitarist, there is a song apiece by The Red Hot Chili Peppers, Earth, Wind And Fire, Hootie And The Blowfish, Sting and Stevie Wonder. But the results actually fit securely into the soul jazz organ tradition. Guitarist Paul Bollenback, who has an appealing sound and an adaptable style, reharmonized some of the simpler pieces, stripped them of their pop rhythms and alternated swinging numbers with slower grooves. Although the strongest numbers are "So Many Stars" and the guitarist's solo rendition of his own "Cat's Eye," none of the selections are throwaways, and Wonder's "I Am Singin'" really cooks. Organist Joey DeFrancesco sounds fairly restrained and happy to be a sideman for a change, still showing off the strong influence of Jimmy Smith. Drummer Jeff "Tain" Watts is solid in support. Although it is doubtful if any of these songs (other than "So Many Stars") will catch on in the jazz world (the melodies are not overly strong), the performances on this disc are excellent and should interest soul-jazz collectors.~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/album/double-gemini-mw0000030913

Personnel: Guitar – Paul Bollenback; Organ – Joey DeFrancesco; Drums – Jeff "Tain" Watts

Double Gemini

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Ralph Peterson - Raise up off Me

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 84:32
Size: 194,8 MB
Art: Front

(8:04) 1. Raise up off Me!
(7:26) 2. The Right to Live
(4:29) 3. Four Play
(8:19) 4. I Want to Be There for You
(6:57) 5. Bouncing with Bud
(5:54) 6. Blue Hughes
(6:01) 7. Tears I Can Not Hide
(6:49) 8. Naima’s Love Song
(6:48) 9. Jodi
(6:40) 10. Fantasia Brazil
(4:13) 11. Shorties Portion
(6:33) 12. Raise up off Me Too!
(6:15) 13. Please Do Something(Bonus Track)

The recently deceased drummer/composer Ralph Peterson will be always remembered as a shrewd, confident player who was utterly expressive in the stories he intended to tell. Peterson died from cancer on March 1st, and Raise Up Off Me is an inspiring last album filled with optimism and empowering message. Most of the tracks here are explored in the trio format alongside two of his protégés, the brothers Zaccai and Luques Curtis on piano and bass, respectively. The trio, which had recorded Triangular III in 2016, is joined by special guests on specific tunes. There are two dazzling originals at the top of the track list. Whereas the title cut denotes an optimum balance between relaxation and tension, reaching both spiritual and emotional states on occasion; “The Right to Live” is a post-bop number configured with untethered drum eruptions before earning a dancing quality in the B section that is hundred percent Brazilian. This is an influence that is also mirrored on “Fantasia Brazil”.

The acclaimed singer Jazzmeia Horn shines on three pieces: “Tears I Cannot Hide”, a Peterson ballad for which she wrote the lyrics; John Hicks/Betty Carter’s “Naima’s Love Song”, which gains a soft Latin touch while proceeding at a solid stride; and on her own “Please Do Something”, a lavishly and ferociously swinging ride where she’s seen at the peak of her vocal abilities. The latter tune appears as a bonus track on the LP and digital releases only “Four Play” is an uptempo blues burner fetched from pianist James Williams’ 1984 album Alter Ego, whereas Bud Powell’s “Bouncing With Bud” features a lively, lilting brushwork from Peterson, who takes his buoyancy to a much softer level on Zaccai’s ballad “I Want To Be There With You”.

Definitely a highlight, and with the Puerto Rican percussionist Eguie Castrillo on board, “Blue Hughes” is conveniently accented according to the breezy calypso waves that propel it. Being subjected to a fresh arrangement here, this tune had been recorded in 1985 by the Blue Note Records-founded group OTB (Out of the Blue) of which Peterson was a rhythmic pillar in conjunction to the bassist Robert Hurst. Peterson’s last goodbye exemplifies the empathetic force of his music and playing. https://jazztrail.net/blog/ralph-peterson-raise-up-off-me-album-review

Personnel - Ralph Peterson: drums, percussion; Luques Curtis: double bass; Zaccai Curtis: piano, keyboard; Jazzmeia Horn: vocals (#7,8,13); Eguie Castrillo: percussion (#6).

Raise up off Me

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Norman Simmons Trio - Jazz Essentials

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 2013
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 39:43
Size: 92,7 MB
Art: Front

(3:08) 1. Stella by Starlight
(2:41) 2. You Do Something to Me
(4:06) 3. Love Is Eternal
(3:11) 4. Tranquility
(3:56) 5. Capacity in Blues
(3:26) 6. Jan
(3:32) 7. They Can't Take That Away from Me
(3:59) 8. My Funny Valentine
(4:15) 9. Peppe
(3:45) 10. Moonlight in Vermont
(3:38) 11. Chili Bowl

Pianist Norman Simmons is a superior arranger and good accompanist most famous for providing the hit arrangement of "Wade in the Water" for the Ramsey Lewis group. Simmons worked in the '50s and '60s for several vocalists, among them Dakota Staton, Ernestine Anderson, and Carmen McRae. He worked in 1960 with the Johnny Griffin-Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis group. In 1979 Simmons became a regular pianist for Joe Williams, performing with the acclaimed vocalist through the 1990s. Following Williams' death in 1999, Simmons led his first session in quite some time, resulting in the 2000 Savant release Art of Norman Simmons. In 2002 he issued Synthesis, his second effort for Savant. In Private, a Savant date also featuring bassist Lisle Atkinson and drummer Paul Humphrey, arrived in 2004.~ Ron Wynn https://www.allmusic.com/artist/norman-simmons-mn0000884894/biography

R.I.P.

Born: October 6, 1929, Chicago, Illinois, United States

Died: May 13, 2021

Jazz Essentials

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