Didier Lockwood - Out Of The Blue

Styles: Violin Jazz
Year: 1985
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 37:54
Size: 87,6 MB
Art: Front

(4:31)  1. Legs
(6:23)  2. Cello Britten
(2:57)  3. Martinique
(3:12)  4. I Can't Tell You To Begin
(4:20)  5. November Song
(3:55)  6. Out Of The Blue
(6:49)  7. Round About Midnight
(5:43)  8. B. Train Blues

Violinist Didier Lockwood showed great potential when he first arrived on the scene, but despite some good sessions, he has not yet become the pacesetter one originally expected. 

This is one of his better recordings, a quartet outing with pianist Gordon Beck, bassist Cecil McBee and drummer Billy Hart. Other than "'Round Midnight" and an obscurity, all of the music is by either Lockwood or Beck, although much of it is fairly straight-ahead (as opposed to Lockwood's earlier fusion-oriented dates) Worth searching for. ~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/album/out-of-the-blue-mw0000188326

Personnel: Didier Lockwood - violin; Gordon Beck - guitar; Cecil McBee - bass; Billy Hart - drums

Out Of The Blue

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George Robert - Soul Searching

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Size: 172,4 MB
Time: 75:19
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2005
Art: Front

1. Namely You (11:13)
2. Soul Searching ( 8:32)
3. Nostalgie (11:59)
4. African Village ( 9:43)
5. Blue for Trane (12:42)
6. Peace ( 3:25)
7. I've Never Been in Love Before (12:04)
8. Here's That Rainy Day ( 5:37)

Swiss alto saxophonist George Robert shines in this 2003 concert in Lausanne, Switzerland. The influence of Phil Woods is unmistakable at times, though Robert is hardly a mere clone of the American (who has performed and recorded with Robert, while he also wrote the liner notes for this CD).

Joining Robert is an all-star rhythm section consisting of pianist Kenny Barron, bassist Rufus Reid, and drummer Billy Hart. The set starts off with a sparkling interpretation of the standard "Namely You," showcasing Robert, Barron, and Reid. The full band is featured in a driving setting of "I've Never Been in Love Before," while the heartfelt rendition of "Here's That Rainy Day" is a rhapsodic closing number.

Robert penned several originals, including the exotic "Soul Searching," in which the leader plays soprano sax, which he also utilizes in his dramatic "Blues for Trane." Issued by DIW in Japan, this rewarding CD is an important addition to George Robert's discography.By Ken Dryden https://www.allmusic.com/album/soul-searching-mw0000767509#review

Personnel: George Robert - saxophone; Kenny Barron - piano; Rufus Reid - bass; Billy Hart - drums

Soul Searching

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Big Nick Nicholas - Big Nick

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 1985
Time: 42:13
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 96,9 MB
Art: Front

(3:53) 1. Body And Soul
(4:54) 2. Somewhere
(5:25) 3. Big Nick
(5:42) 4. Down Home Blues
(4:52) 5. Reverend John Gensel
(4:20) 6. Two For The Road
(4:09) 7. A Flower Is A Lovesome Thing
(4:30) 8. I'm Pulling Through
(4:23) 9. Reincarnation Of Sonny Clark

Tenor saxophonist Big Nick Nicholas was active for more than 50 years without ever receiving consistent recognition or material rewards commensurate with his contribution to early modern jazz. He is usually remembered as the caloric soloist who improvised for 16 bars on Dizzy Gillespie's 1947 recording of "Manteca"; as the honoree of a warmly whimsical portrait recorded by John Coltrane with Duke Ellington in 1962, and as a weathered veteran who enjoyed a brief comeback during the 1980s. George Walker Nicholas was born in Lansing, MI on August 2, 1922 and studied clarinet, saxophone, and piano during the years 1933-1939. Sturdy and large-boned, he was already being called "Big Nick" at the age of ten.

Young George practiced blowing his horn out of doors, playing the same song in multiple key signatures, a tendency inherited from earlier jazz masters and solidly in step with where modern jazz was heading. His father, a saxophonist, mentored him while encouraging his son to sit in with various bands in the Detroit area throughout 1939 and 1940. During adolescence he performed in a group with Thad and Hank Jones, who hailed from nearby Pontiac. In 1942 he gigged with Kelly Martin at Club Congo in Detroit. Nick's primary influence was Coleman Hawkins, and by the time he moved to New York he had settled permanently upon the tenor sax. A regular participant in after-hours blowing sessions at Minton's Playhouse on West 118th Street, he worked with Earl "Fatha" Hines for three months in 1942 and gigged with Tiny Bradshaw for half a year in 1943.

After serving in the Second World War, Nick entered his busiest period, studying music theory and harmony at the Boston Conservatory from 1944-1946, appearing at the Savoy in Boston with pianist Sabby Lewis (who was soon to become that city's first African-American radio DJ), sitting in with the Claude Hopkins orchestra, and recording with vocalist Sarah Vaughan. He was featured on Lucky Millinder's Decca recording "The Spider and the Fly." On January 4, 1947 Nick's tenor anchored a group led by drummer J.C. Heard that backed comedian Dusty Fletcher on his famous recording of "Open the Door Richard"; three days later he recorded with Fats Navarro and Miles Davis in a 15-piece big band led by Illinois Jacquet. During that year, Nick began collaborating with singing trumpeter Hot Lips Page, who featured the saxophonist on "Take Your Shoes Off, Baby" and "La Danse"; they would continue to work together until Page's death in 1954.

Also during 1947, Nicholas joined the Dizzy Gillespie orchestra and was featured on "Manteca" and "Ool-ya-koo." John Coltrane caught Nicholas with Gillespie during this period and was greatly inspired by what he heard. In February 1948, Nick performed live in Paris with Gillespie's big band during a three-month European tour. In 1950 he recorded with pianist Una Mae Carlisle, and began leading jam sessions at Harlem's Paradise Club, where he developed a tendency to sing in what has accurately been termed a "joyous, booming" voice. On September 29, 1951 Big Nick locked horns with Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis on-stage at Birdland with the Miles Davis Sextet, a trailblazing unit that included Billy Taylor, Charles Mingus, and Art Blakey.

A few days later Blakey, Nick, and Lockjaw were in the studio with a sextet led by trombonist Bennie Green, recording the "Tenor Sax Shuffle" and five other titles for Prestige. In 1953, Nick worked with Jonah Jones backing vocalist Timmie Rogers, and in 1955 he collaborated with trumpeter Buck Clayton and vocalist Frankie Laine on the album Jazz Spectacular, taking memorable solos on "Baby Baby All the Time" and "Sposin'." During the mid- and late '50s Big Nick lived on 139th Street in Queens; he played the Club Harlem in Atlantic City, N.J. and was featured soloist with the Shorty Allen band at Elegante in Brooklyn. When Coltrane recorded "Big Nick" with Duke Ellington in 1962, he used the soprano saxophone to invoke the man's personality rather than employing the tenor to emulate his tonality.

While Trane's friendly tribute alerted large numbers of record-buying jazz fans to Nick's existence, his career was more or less on hold during much of the decade. In 1964 he participated in a benefit for the ailing Pee Wee Russell; unfortunately, the same alcoholism that did in the clarinetist in 1969 gradually took its toll on Big Nick. During the '70s he lived and taught in Charlottesville, VA, where in 1979 he held down a regular booking at a country club lounge. This was followed by a successful engagement in New York, a 1980 European tour with John Hicks, Walter Booker, and Jimmy Cobb, and a brief comeback following the release of his first album as a leader in 1984, forever preserving his wonderfully eccentric scat singing on a disarming version of "Corrine Corrina." Big and Warm was followed in 1985 by Big Nick. Neither of these India Navigation albums has received the attention they deserve. George Walker Nicholas passed away in Queens, NY on October 19, 1997.
.https://www.allaboutjazz.com/musicians/big-nick-nicholas

Personnel: Big Nick Nicholas - Tenor Saxophone & Vocals; Billy Hart - Drums; Dave Jackson - Bass; John Miller - Piano.

Big Nick

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Bill O'Connell - Live in Montauk

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 2023
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 59:18
Size: 136,4 MB
Art: Front

( 6:29) 1. Do Nothing Till You Hear From Me (Live) (Feat. Randy Brecker)
(10:25) 2. Sparks (Live)
( 6:01) 3. Moanin' (Live)
( 8:59) 4. No Rhyme Or Reason (Live)
( 9:21) 5. One Finger Snap (Live)
( 6:41) 6. Ripty Boom (Live)
(11:19) 7. Tip Toes (Live) (Feat. Randy Brecker)

After years of gigging in the New York City area, while honing his credentials as a first-call contemporary jazz pianist, Bill O'Connell and his family moved to Montauk, the easternmost point on Long Island, where he expressed his appreciation of the area's many wonders by recording this impressive album at the celebrated Gosman's Dock, during the annual Hamptons Jazz Festival in August 2021.

It is essentially a quartet date with trumpeter Randy Brecker sitting in on two numbers, Duke Ellington's oft- recorded "Do Nothing till You Hear from Me" and O'Connell's nimble finale, "Tip Toes." The other members of the quartet are tenor saxophonist Craig Handy, bassist Santi Debriano and drummer Billy Hart, none of whom need be introduced to reasonably well-informed jazz enthusiasts.

O'Connell is cheerful and congenial at the keyboard, which well suits his choice of material and seems to please his companions too, as everyone plays with vigor and enthusiasm. Brecker, who remains at the top of his game after more than half a century in the spotlight, delivers typically sharp and resourceful solos on his two numbers, while Handy is as brash and outspoken as ever, reining in his more frenzied instincts most of the way (indulging them only on O'Connell's well-named "Sparks" and fast-moving "Tip Toes").

The group opens with O'Connell's Latinized arrangement of "Do Nothing," which precedes "Sparks," Bobby Timmons' well-traveled "Moanin'" (whose preamble is taken at a livelier-than-usual pace) and O'Connell's wistful ballad, "No Rhyme or Reason." Herbie Hancock's "One Finger Snap" is sunny and invigorating, Debriano's "Ripty Boom" a colorful and charming blues waltz. "Tip Toes" is the sort of finger-popping closer that leaves an audience pleading for more, and O'Connell and his companions lend it all the earnestness and energy they can muster.

O'Connell is persuasive throughout, Handy an able partner, Debriano and Hart a sturdy rhythm component. Together, they made sure the audience at Montauk was not short-changed, a promise that holds true for anyone who is moved to check out the recorded narrative of that splendid concert. By Jack Bowers https://www.allaboutjazz.com/live-in-montauk-bill-oconnell-savant-records__24171

Personnel: Bill O’Connell: piano; Craig Handy: tenor saxophone; Santi Debriano: bass; Billy Hart: drums

Special Guest: Randy Brecker: trumpet (tracks 1 & 7)

Live in Montauk

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Benny Bailey - Grand Slam

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 57:34
Size: 131.8 MB
Styles: Bop, Trumpet jazz
Year: 1978/1998
Art: Front

[ 6:53] 1. Reflectory, Pt. 1
[ 7:34] 2. Who's Bossa Now
[ 8:26] 3. Let Me Go, Pt. 1
[10:53] 4. Judgement Of Certain Kind
[ 9:55] 5. Thelonious Assault
[ 6:33] 6. Let Me Go, Pt. 2
[ 7:17] 7. Reflectory, Pt. 2

Trumpeter Benny Bailey was teamed with veteran tenor-saxophonist Charlie Rouse on this hard-blowing quintet date. The fresh material (two songs by Fritz Pauer who arranged the date, a pair from Bailey and one by Pepper Adams) inspires the soloists to play near their peak. With a fine rhythm section (pianist Richard Wyands, bassist Sam Jones and drummer Billy Hart) pushing the horns, this set is even better than expected. ~Scott Yanow

Grand Slam

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Jeremy Pelt - The Art of Intimacy, Vol. 2: His Muse

Styles: Vocal, Trumpet Jazz
Year: 2023
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 50:52
Size: 116,8 MB
Art: Front

(6:30) 1. …For Whom I Love So Much
(5:19) 2. Slow Hot Wind
(3:04) 3. If I Ruled the World
(4:38) 4. I Can't Escape from You
(6:08) 5. There'll Be Other Times
(4:57) 6. Don't Love Me
(6:40) 7. Blues in Sophistication
(4:33) 8. Two Different Worlds
(4:25) 9. When She Makes Music
(4:34) 10. Two for the Road

Playing jazz is a lot like love itself, it is as much about poignancy as it is about joy, whether we listen to a torch song or read a love poem by Shelley, we experience their creator's pain or we share in their euphoria.

And it is Jeremy Pelt's understanding of this dichotomy of passion and restraint that makes this album so compelling. The set list is as all-encompassing as a love affair - from the straight-ahead feeling of "I Can't Escape from You" to the breathless stillness of his muted trumpet on "There'll Be Other Times." His sly, half-valve effects on "Blues in Sophistication" show an impish delight while Henry Mancini's "Slow Hot Wind" throbs with an ever so discreet Latin feel.

This may be considered a "with strings" record but Pelt does not allow it to descend into a vibrato-laden string sound. There is an unusually classical feel to this album with the string quartet supporting, reinforcing and commenting on Pelt's playing rather than sugar-coating it. Buddy Rich once said, "Jazz should be treated the same as classical music." He was right. He "got it" and, as evidenced herein, so does Jeremy Pelt.

Personnel: Jeremy Pelt: trumpet, vocal; Victor Gould: piano; Buster Williams: bass; Billy Hart: drums; Chico Pinheiro: guitar (track 10 only), String Ensemble arranged & conducted by David O'Rourke

The Art of Intimacy, Vol. 2: His Muse

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Buster Williams - Crystal Reflections

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
Year: 1976
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 49:45
Size: 114,2 MB
Art: Front

( 7:20)  1. Prism
( 9:30)  2. The Enchanted Flower
( 5:21)  3. I Love You
( 5:38)  4. I Dream Too Much
(11:47)  5. Vibrations
( 3:29)  6. My Funny Valentine
( 6:38)  7. I Dream Too Much

Bassist Buster Williams is well featured here on this pretty, interesting set from 1976, his second disc as a leader. Crystal Reflections concentrates on exploratory duets with keyboardist Kenny Barron (the exceptional Barron original, "The Enchanted Flower"), pianist Jimmy Rowles (two versions of "I Dream Too Much") and vibraphonist Roy Ayers ("My Funny Valentine"). Elsewhere, Williams combines with Barron, Ayers and drummer Billy Hart for three impressionistic pieces: William's sensitive "Prism," Cole Porter's "I Love You" and Roy Ayers's Spyro Gyra-like "Vibrations." Even when Williams overdubs synthesizer and female voices overtop "Prism" or when Roy Ayers doubles up on sythn for "Virgo," the effect is sensitively considered and the result is quite a positive contribution to the success of each piece. This set is much more likely to appeal to fans of Kenny Barron, Jimmy Rowles or Roy Ayers. But bassist Williams proves himself a worthy leader here. He's a sympathetic, melodic player whose perceptive and intuitive string work is often simple and effective, never showy and very much a beneficial part of the whole. Like the title suggests, this is music that is as pretty as it is intelligent. Recommended. ~ Douglas Payne https://www.allaboutjazz.com/crystal-reflections-buster-williams-32-records-review-by-douglas-payne.php

Personnel: Buster Williams: bass, synthesizer; Kenny Barron: piano, electric piano; Jimmy Rowles: piano; Roy Ayers: vibes, synthesizer; Billy Hart: drums; Nobu Urushiyama: percussion; Suzanne Klewan: voice.

Crystal Reflections

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Dave Liebman - The Elements: Water

Styles: Saxophone And Flute Jazz
Year: 1997/2022
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 58:01
Size: 133,6 MB
Art: Front

(6:32) 1. Water: Giver Of Life
(7:10) 2. White Caps
(4:27) 3. Heaven's Gift
(2:09) 4. Bass Interlude
(7:06) 5. Reflecting Pool
(8:56) 6. Storm Surge
(1:19) 7. Guitar Interlude
(4:13) 8. Baptismal Font
(5:58) 9. Ebb And Flow
(1:14) 10. Water Theme (Reprise)
(8:53) 11. Dave Liebman's Reflections On "Water"

Soprano sax icon and modern jazz pioneer Dave Liebman teams up with the equally talented and famous jazz guitarist Pat Metheny for their first ever recording. Liebman’s “”The Elements: Water” represents the first in a projected series of recordings dedicated to the elements. Liebman states in the liners: ...The music “all derives from the opening solo guitar theme” and continues with: “Every composition is based on a different harmonic aspect of this melody”. The first piece “Water: Giver Of Life” is where Pat Metheny subtly imposes the melody through pensive acoustic guitar passages which is a precursor for this albums recurring thematic statements. Throughout the entire project, the themes become reworked or harmonically restructured.

On “White Caps”, Liebman picks up the tenor sax as his phrasing is furious and stinging while displaying a richly textured luminous sound atop a somewhat laid back funk beat. Liebman and Metheny trade a few choruses that suggest turbulence or rapid movement. “Heaven’s Gift” is a straight four swing as Liebman, on soprano spars with Metheny while the class rhythm section of Cecil McBee (b) and Billy Hart (d) provide a rock-bottom foundation yet remain loose and flexible when called upon. “Reflecting Pool” is one of the best tracks on the album. Here, Liebman’s utilization of the wood flute projects ambiance that seems solemn or spiritual. Pat Metheny’s use of the 48 string Pikasso-Guitar enhances the already vivid imagery, which at times becomes lifelike. The stillness of a reflecting pool is captured in artistic fashion.

The albums recurring theme is generally linear, brief and simple in scope which affords Liebman and Metheny some breathing room or some extra space to implement harmonic and thematic reconstruction. Perhaps Liebman’s personalized approach was to convey “water” as an element, which represents the core substance or element of all living creatures and the earth we inhabit. This notion may correspond to the intentional similarities given to these compositions although; no two tracks sound identical yet the common bond or denominator adheres to the one theme concept.

“Storm Surge” is a fast paced burner while “Baptismal” features Liebman on Tenor Sax as his lush sound is optimized by a dash of reverb on top of Metheny’s endearing steel string acoustic guitar work. Everyone let’s loose on the free jazz romp “Ebb & Flow”. Here, Cecil McBee stirs the pot with super quick walking bass lines, which catapults this piece into forward motion. One minor gripe lies with Pat Metheny’s “Synclavier” or Synth-Guitar. This reviewer feels that Metheny needs to find a new toy or digital guitar. Metheny has worn out his welcome with this contraption that sounds jaded and predictable. On the other hand Metheny’s acoustic and straight-ahead electric guitar work is fabulous throughout this recording.

The last track is an interview with Liebman conducted by Bob Karcy of Arkadia Records. Here, Liebman provides insight about the mindset, music and musicians regarding this particular project as “The Elements: Water” is all about lucid imagery rendered through composition and fine ensemble work. *** 1/2 By Glenn Astarita
https://www.allaboutjazz.com/the-elements-water-dave-liebman-arkadia-jazz-review- glenn-astarita

Personnel: Dave Liebman, soprano, tenor saxophones, wood flute; Cecil McBee, bass; Billy Hart, drums; Pat Metheny, guitars.

The Elements: Water

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Lee Konitz - Yes, Yes Nonet

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 1986
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 40:27
Size: 93,7 MB
Art: Front

(6:07) 1. Dearth Of A Nation
(6:15) 2. Languid
(8:06) 3. Footprints
(5:15) 4. Stardust
(6:35) 5. Primrose Path
(4:35) 6. Noche Triste
(3:31) 7. My Buddy

It was a tragedy that Lee Konitz's versatile nonet was not able to succeed commercially. Just like its leader, the group was able to stretch from swing standards, bop and cool jazz to freer improvisations and challenging originals. This SteepleChase release (featuring the nonet when it was comprised of such fine players as trumpeters Tom Harrell and John Eckert, trombonists Jimmy Knepper and Sam Burtis, baritonist Ronnie Cuber, pianist Harold Danko, bassist Buster Williams and drummer Billy Hart in addition to Konitz on alto and soprano) features the group at its best on such pieces as "Footprints," "Stardust," "My Buddy" and four songs by Jimmy Knepper. It's an excellent outing from a somewhat neglected group. By Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/album/yes-yes-nonet-mw0000651370

Personnel: Lee Konitz – alto saxophone, soprano saxophone; John Eckert, Tom Harrell – trumpet, flugelhorn; Jimmy Knepper – trombone; Sam Burtis – bass trombone; Ronnie Cuber – baritone saxophone, soprano saxophone; Harold Danko – piano; Buster Williams – bass; Billy Hart – drums

Yes,Yes Nonet

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Kevin Hays - All Things Are

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 2021
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 60:36
Size: 139,2 MB
Art: Front

( 7:45) 1. New Day
( 9:54) 2. Elegia
( 3:36) 3. Unscrappulous
(11:52) 4. For Heaven's Sake
( 9:35) 5. All Things Are
( 8:05) 6. Sweet Caroline
( 9:45) 7. Twilight

You can tell the heat of the trio by the laughter boiling over. Not in all cases, admittedly, but for this session, the exhortations and chuckles, picked up by the mic, drive drummer Billy Hart, bassist Ben Street, and pianist Kevin Hays with a gentle nudge here, a harder shove there to greater pleasures, in greater complexities, even as they start in simplicity.

Recorded live on the bandstand of a sans-audience Smoke Jazz Club, this date finds Hays and Hart switching posts between leader and led. The drummer can be a one-man solar system through his cymbals and dry snare, while the piano hops around the stereo spectrum, a fire sometimes banked as Hart muses, sometimes roaring ahead and around. I’m intrigued how Street keeps himself to one side, stereo and muse-wise. But from a little farther back he always comments, astutely, quietly, in wisdom.

Hays states that the virus gave him the chance to improve, practicing at home, but he worried about losing his ability to relate to others. Sounds like he needn’t have worried. Three tunes here stemmed directly from him; three others sprang up as contrafacts of standards. Reworking “All the Things You Are” into “All Things Are” gives you its hint from the new title: leaving things out to put most anything in, thus expanding possibilities from the already-rich cycle of fifths in the original. Street waits patiently for his chance, gets it, and explains everything the other two left out. I grow weary and numb and even cynical watching the news, feeling the grind through my bones; then I hear this, and our race seems worth saving.By By Andrew Hamlin
https://jazztimes.com/reviews/albums/kevin-hays-ben-street-billy-hart-all-things-are-smoke-sessions/

Personnel: Kevin Hays, piano; Ben Street, bass; Billy Hart, drums.

All Things Are

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Charles Sullivan - Genesis

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 1974
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 40:08
Size: 92,0 MB
Art: Front

( 8:26) 1. Evening Song
( 5:55) 2. Good-Bye Sweet John (In Memory Of John Foster: Pianist)
( 3:43) 3. Field Holler
( 4:33) 4. Now I'll Sleep
(17:29) 5. Genesis

Trumpeter, flügelhornist, and composer Charles Sullivan pegged as a poor man's Lee Morgan or Woody Shaw toiled in many mainstream or progressive big bands of the 1970s, languishing in obscurity until breaking through with this, his debut as a leader. Using a spare, warm tone, Sullivan was a cool customer in the firestorm of progressive jazz and fusion of the day, adapting those idioms to his own brand of personalized jazz. Because of his many professional associations, he was able to employ true cream-of-the-crop musicians like pianists Stanley Cowell, Onaje Allan Gumbs, and Sharon Freeman, saxophonist Sonny Fortune, bassist Alex Blake, percussionist Lawrence Killian, and drummer Billy Hart to play his original compositions. Of the five selections, each has its own distinctive flair, taking from different modern jazz elements prevalent to the time frame while not stuck in a rut with any of them.

As the very first piece he ever wrote, "Evening Song" is compelling with its Latin beat and modal montuno piano where Sullivan takes an extended solo, with Cowell also featured before the trumpeter returns for more. A solemn duet with Gumbs for the late pianist John Foster on "Goodbye Sweet John" contrasts with the funky fusion tune "Field Holler," with Freeman's stabbing electric Fender Rhodes chord-driven lines, featuring Alphonse Mouzon's powerhouse drumming and the electric bass of Anthony Jackson, with a lyrical and basic Sullivan sounding influenced by James Brown.

The remainder of the recording is a twofold message of despair and renewal, as Dee Dee Bridgewater sings beautifully in the paradox song "Now I'll Sleep," about suicide, with the lyric that one might "choose to lose, afraid to love" with Sullivan's horn in way late. "Genesis" is a 17-plus-minute workout that rises from those sullen ashes with an Afro-modal stance similar to Frank Foster's Loud Minority of the same era. Cowell's piano and the impressive tandem of Sullivan and Fortune's fiery alto sax push the ensemble to the limits of African-American progressive jazz expressionism. This recording received a five-star rating in Down Beat magazine, and while there are too few Charles Sullivan recordings in the marketplace, it's well deserving of this accolade as one of the very best post-bop efforts of its decade, and now available on CD. By Michael G. Nastos https://www.allmusic.com/album/genesis-mw0001879323

Personnel: Charles Sullivan - trumpet; Sonny Fortune - alto saxophone; Stanley Cowell, Onaje Allan Gumbs - piano; Sharon Freeman - electric piano; Alex Blake - bass; Billy Hart - drums; Lawrence Killian - congas, percussion; Dee Dee Bridgewater - vocals

Genesis

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Charles Sullivan - Re-Entry

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 1976
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 71:24
Size: 164,9 MB
Art: Front

(12:15)  1. Re-Entry
( 9:52)  2. Body & Soul
( 8:23)  3. Carefree
( 7:39)  4. Waltz For Crickent
( 8:01)  5. Mabe's Way
(14:24)  6. Body & Soul
(10:47)  7. Carefree

A most underrated trumpeter, Charles Sullivan has excellent technique, fine tone, a bright shimmering sound, and simply has not gotten the credit he deserves. Sullivan studied at the Manhattan School of Music in the 60s, played with Lionel Hampton and Roy Haynes in the late 60s, then toured briefly as Count Basie's lead trumpeter in 1970 and with Lonnie Liston Smith in 1971. 

He played with Sy Oliver in 1972 and toured Europe and recorded with Abdullah Ibrahim in 1973, then worked and recorded with Sonny Fortune, Carlos Garnett, Bennie Maupin, Ricky Ford, Eddie Jefferson and Woody Shaw through the remainder of the 70s. This rare session from August 1976 has him leading a fine band with sax man Rene McLean together with the Kenny Barron Trio. ~ Editorial Reviews https://www.amazon.com/Re-Entry-Charles-Sullivan/dp/B002ZXZJRE

Personnel:  Charles Sullivan - trumpet; Kenny Barron - piano; Buster Williams - bass; Billy Hart - drums; René McLean - alto saxophone, tenor saxophone

Re-Entry

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Judy Niemack - Long As You're Living

Styles: Vocal
Year: 1996
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 60:42
Size: 140,1 MB
Art: Front

(5:33) 1. Long As You're Living
(4:20) 2. Waltz For Debby
(6:10) 3. The Maestro
(7:25) 4. Good Bye Pork Pie Hat
(3:13) 5. Caribbean Fire Dance
(7:10) 6. The Island
(3:31) 7. Monk's Dream
(5:01) 8. You've Taken Things Too Far
(3:38) 9. To Welcome The Day
(4:45) 10. Out Of This World
(3:48) 11. I Should Have Told You Goodbye
(6:03) 12. Infant Eyes

The term "jazz singer" has been misused so often so long that one hesitates to employ it. But if it has any meaning at all, the marvelous work of Judy Niemack is a veritable definition. She is a musician in the truest sense, having mastered her instrument (a beautiful one) and her chosen language and crafted her own style (...) There isn't one insincere or tawdry note anywhere in this fine, varied program which displays the full range of Judy Niemack's voice, imagination, and perhaps above all, taste a rare comodity in this or any other age. If you want to know what real jazz singing can be (but rarely is), listen to Judy Niemack, who never takes things too far, just far enough. ~ Dan Morgenstern http://www.judyniemack.com/albuminfo.aspx?ID=905

Personnel: Judy Niemack vocals, Fred Hersch piano, Joe Lovano tenor saxophone (on 1, 4, 8 and 11), Scott Colley bass, Billy Hart drums

Long As You're Living

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Richie Beirach - Manhattan Reverie

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 69:41
Size: 159.5 MB
Styles: Piano jazz
Year: 2006
Art: Front

[5:14] 1. You Don't Know What Love Is
[6:09] 2. On Green Dolphin Street
[6:40] 3. If I Were A Bell
[5:07] 4. Manhattan Reverie
[8:49] 5. Etude (No. 6 In E-Flat Minor, Op. 10)
[9:07] 6. Transition
[8:34] 7. Stella By Starlight
[5:37] 8. Veils
[6:30] 9. Blood Count
[7:52] 10. Footprints

Richie Beirach: piano; George Mraz: bass; Billy Hart: drums.

It was all in the eyes. They say peek into someone's eyes if you really want to see what they're about and how they're feeling. From the looks of things at a performance to celebrate his sixtieth birthday at Birdland at the end of August 2007, it seemed that Richie Beirach was feeling good. Sounded tops, too. This classically-trained veteran pianist was marking his sixth decade on earth with a little help from his friends—trio band mates, bassist George Mraz and drummer Billy Hart, expert rhythm makers also featured on this highly effective 2007 Japanese import from Venus Records, Manhattan Reverie. They all appeared to have a certain twinkle in their eyes, suggesting that they are very comfortable playing with each other, wise to each other's ways and that they were having a good time. It was kind of a nice message: Age has nothing to do with vitality or musical ability, except maybe, in this case, it adds to both of those things.

Two terrific guests shared in the belated (his birthday was in May) festivities at Birdland —trumpeter Randy Brecker and the violinist Gregor Huebner. Whether live or on recording, Hart and Mraz supplied excellent support to Beirach's intricate, introspective and lively playing. Surprises of the show included explorations of Bartók and Bach, each offering gorgeously rendered improvisations. A tribute to the late Michael Brecker, in the form of a rearranged "old Russian folk song as Beirach described it, was moving and beautiful, if at moments almost painful to witness, a feeling heightened by the intensity of brother Randy's participation. These stunning, seemingly effortless endeavors were punctuated by exquisite soloing by Huebner.

The live event had been touted in some circles as an occasion also to mark the release of Manhattan Reverie so the repertoire sampled on the Friday before Labor Day was somewhat unexpected, as no pieces from the album were played in that particular set. But the recording merits repeated listening. It features several standards, including "You Don't Know What Love Is, "On Green Dolphin Street and "If I Were a Bell, all performed at breakneck pace. Somehow that works. In fact, for those of us out here who are a little love-weary (or even love-leery?) it was a welcome change of pace to hear a heart-crushing tune like "You Don't Know What Love Is zip by at such a clip. Would that the pain of lost love could breeze by like that. The Germany-based pianist's own title track is delicious and more gently realized, though a pretty violin accompaniment goes by uncredited. ~Laurel Gross

Manhattan Reverie

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Pepper Adams - Urban Dreams

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2007
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 39:21
Size: 91,0 MB
Art: Front

(6:27)  1. Dexter Rides Again
(4:44)  2. Urban Dreams
(7:18)  3. Three Little Words
(6:55)  4. Time on My Hands
(7:04)  5. Pent Up House
(6:51)  6. Trentino

Musicians frequently become associated with the attributes of their instruments. Charles Mingus was hulking and imposing, just like his bass. Art Blakey had the propulsive, authoritative personality of his drums. Paul Desmond was urbane and laidback, just like the sound of his sweet-toned alto. There are, of course, exceptions to these sorts of correlations. Take Pepper Adams for instance. Slight of frame, particularly in his later years, Adams physical presence was the apotheosis of his chosen axe. Hefting his baritone horn with rail-thin arms, he coaxed out growling guttural lines seemingly at odds with his stature and appearance. Like a lion tamer subjugating a savage beast, he made the weighty sax a complete instrument of his bidding. His tone and phrasing, muscular and blues-based, were far removed from his generation's other skinny guy with a big horn, Gerry Mulligan. Sadly, for whatever reason, Adams' opportunities to record as a leader were far less frequent than those afforded Mulligan. The situation likely has a lot to do his willingness to lend his talents to the causes of other colleagues. Even the quintet he co-led with Donald Byrd at the dawn of the '60s found him taking a second slot on the marquee. The '70s and '80s weren't much better, but Adams did find the occasional resources to record. This reissued Palo Alto date comes from relatively late in his career, but his abilities are hardly diminished. A blue chip rhythm section fronted by pianist Jimmy Rowles, an Adams associate since the '50s, does more than simply supply support, and each member of the quartet has room to solo. The six chosen tunes are all fine blowing vehicles and Adams makes certain that there's space for amicable improvisation. "Dexter Rides Again" finds the band at rollicking gallop with clocking a brisk pace through the changes beside Rowles' light comping and the steady bobbing bass line of George Mraz. Billy Hart stokes the aggressive beat further with steady snare accents. "Urban Dreams," the brief original ballad of the set, rolls out the leader's romantic side. His throaty tone braids through the melody as Hart's brushes further embellish on the amorous implications. Two standards arrive next "Three Little Words" voiced velociously and "Time is on My Hands" taken at another slow drawl tempo each one showing off the band's consummate skill with repertory material. Adams can't resist packing an ample amount of blues punch into both. Rollins' racetrack worthy "Pent Up House" proves even better terrain for the band's high-speed inclinations. Adams once again burns through the changes leaving a smoldering melodic trail in his wake. His lush Latin burner "Trentino" takes the session out. No alternate takes or unreleased tunes, just the original album served up with warm 24 bit mastering. Pepper Adams' memory lives on in this immensely enjoyable and easily recommendable album. ~ Derek Taylor https://www.allaboutjazz.com/urban-dreams-pepper-adams-palo-alto-review-by-derek-taylor.php

Personnel: Pepper Adams: baritone saxophone; Jimmy Rowles: piano; George Mraz: bass; Billy Hart: drums.

Urban Dreams

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Ivo Perelman - Man of the Forest

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 1995
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 46:15
Size: 106,8 MB
Art: Front

(12:28)  1. Man of the Forest
( 5:47)   2. Cantiga Caicó
(11:05)  3. Valeiro
( 5:24)   4. Rasga o Coraçao
(11:29)  5. Prelude No. 1

Ivo Perelman, who has been thought of as a Brazilian Albert Ayler (although that is a simplification and a denial of his originality), fuses together Brazilian music (the playing of his percussionists) with creative jazz in this unusual tribute to the compositions of the Brazilian classical composer Heitor Villa-Lobos. Actually Perelman just uses Villa-Lobos's motifs as a point of departure but one could call the results world fusion since Perelman's mixture creates some startling jazz. Pianist Joanne Brackeen makes her presence felt during her three appearances (including the modal waltz "Veleiro" and the ballad "Rasga O Coracao") while the interaction between the tenor, the accordion of Dom Salvador and the percussionists on "Cantiga Caico" is delightful. Ivo Perelman has an intense sound, complete control of his instrument and an emotional style a little like Archie Shepp in his prime. His passionate music deserves close attention. ~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/album/man-of-the-forest-mw0000126576

Personnel: Tenor Saxophone, Arranged By, Adapted By – Ivo Perelman; Accordion – Dom Salvador; Bass – Mark Helias; Caxixi, Bells, Other [Shells], Voice – Nana Vasconcelos; Caxixi, Triangle, Wood Block [Wood Blocks] – Duduka Da Fonseca; Cuica, Drum [Timba], Congas, Pandeiro, Drum [Zabumba], Bells – Guilherme Franco; Drums – Billy Hart; Pandeiro, Cuica, Triangle [Triangulo], Gong [Gongs], Caxixi, Drum [Ceramic Drum], Bells – Cyro Baptista; Piano – Joanne Brackeen 

Man of the Forest

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Joey DeFrancesco - In the Key of the Universe

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
Year: 2019
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 58:28
Size: 134,9 MB
Art: Front

( 5:18)  1. Inner Being
( 6:42)  2. Vibrations in Blue
( 3:01)  3. Awake and Blissed
( 3:55)  4. It Swung Wide Open
( 5:05)  5. In the Key of the Universe
(11:00)  6. The Creator Has a Master Plan
( 7:52)  7. And So It Is
( 5:30)  8. Soul Perspective
( 4:47)  9. A Path Through the Noise
( 5:15) 10. Easier to Be

This is an important, even historic album. It marks unannounced the return of a great figure of the free jazz era, Pharoah Sanders. Saxophonist Albert Ayler once famously declared, "Trane was the Father, Pharoah was the Son, I am the Holy Ghost." Hammond organist Joey DeFrancesco has orchestrated Sanders' return from oblivion. Without it, the album would be just one more round of Hammond organ tunes that adhere to DeFrancesco's dictum "I just like to swing." Sanders is featured on three numbers: the title track; his own, perhaps best-known song, "The Creator Has A Master Plan"; and "And So It Is." Without in any way disturbing the album's main, happy-go-lucky thrust, these songs provide a glimpse back into another time when brave men sought to expand the music's and their own horizons. Sanders, aged 78, has distanced himself from those free jazz years. His website says: "Although he made his name with expressionistic, nearly anarchic free jazz in John Coltrane's late ensembles of the mid-60s, Sanders' later music is guided by more graceful concerns. The hallmarks of Sanders' playing at that time were naked aggression and unrestrained passion. In the years after Coltrane's death, however, Sanders explored other, somewhat gentler and perhaps more cerebral avenues without, it should be added, sacrificing any of the intensity that defined his work as an apprentice to Coltrane." Hats off to Joey DeFrancesco for this chance to re-evaluate Sanders' work. DeFrancesco's own numbers are executed with his customary panache. "Inner Being" and "Vibrations In Blue" test the limits of the instrumentation to emerge by and large unscathed. "Soul Perspective" is gentle and melodic, with Troy Roberts putting in some good work on tenor and soprano saxophones.  "A Path Through The Noise" speaks for itself it's meditative and calm with DeFrancesco taking a solo on trumpet, which he took up after gigging with Miles Davis as a very young man. ~ Chris Mosey https://www.allaboutjazz.com/in-the-key-of-the-universe-joey-defrancesco-mack-avenue-records-review-by-chris-mosey.php

Personnel: Joey DeFrancesco: organ, trumpet; Pharoah Sanders: tenor saxophone, vocal; Troy Roberts: soprano, alto and tenor saxophone, bass; Sammy Figueroa: percussion; Billy Hart: drums.

In the Key of the Universe

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Charles Lloyd - Lift Every Voice Disc 1 And Disc 2

Album: Lift Every Voice Disc 1

Styles: Saxophone And Flute Jazz
Year: 2002
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 61:19
Size: 141,8 MB
Art: Front

(15:00)  1. Hymn To The Mother
( 4:05)  2. You Are So Beautiful
( 4:42)  3. Amazing Grace
( 9:40)  4. East Virginia, West Memphis
( 5:07)  5. What's Going On
( 3:33)  6. Angel Oak
( 6:47)  7. Te Amaré
( 7:38)  8. I'm Afraid
( 4:43)  9. Hafez, Shattered Heart

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Album: Lift Every Voice Disc 2

Time: 69:07

Size: 159,6 MB

( 7:05)  1. Rabo De Nube

( 5:06)  2. Blood Count

(10:37)  3. Go Down Moses

( 7:51)  4. Beyond Darkness

( 6:12)  5. Nocturne

( 8:35)  6. Wayfaring Stranger

( 6:25)  7. Deep River

( 3:08)  8. Lift Every Voice And Sing

(14:03)  9. Prayer, The Crossing

The initial response of most Americans to the tragedy of September 11th was shock, quickly followed by anger. While many maintain that anger, others have moved on to mourning, contemplation, and hope. Such is the mood for Charles Lloyd’s recording, over two hours of introspection and spiritual resurrection. This recording of two sessions from the winter of 2002 follows two of the most beautiful records Lloyd has ever made. Both The Water Is Wide (2000) and Hyperion With Higgins (2001) showcase Lloyd’s spiritual side and, as these were some of the last recordings made by drummer Billy Higgins, they have an supernatural deliberation about them. In the wake of the events of 9-11, Lloyd reassembled Larry Grenadier and John Abercrombie from the Higgins’ dates and added Geri Allen, and long time companions Billy Hart and Marc Johnson. Lloyd worked these sessions as a quartet with Allen, Grenadier and Hart, then a quintet adding Abercrombie and switching bassists to Johnson. Perusing the titles Lloyd’s purpose becomes apparent. His response to the tragedy is one of lament, longing, and faith. His creed is interdenominational, and multi-racial. He covers music of spirituals, “Deep River,” “Go Down Moses,” and “Amazing Grace,” alongside of the Negro National Anthem as the albums title piece and Islamic poet’s “Hafez, Shattered Heart.” Lloyd’s “Moses” has a certain sense of anger before settling into a comforting blues. His solo taragato on “Hafez” applies a patient yet unresolved inquiry into the Eastern experience of world events. Along with traditional music he plies his own craft, that is jazz, to these statements. Recalling a peaceful response he takes up Marvin Gaye’s “What’s Going On” and Billy Preston’s “You Are So Beautiful.” No grandstanding is allowed here or on any of these tracks. The melodies are touched on with a minimum of soloing as if to focus on the message and not the musician. It’s not that these talented musicians are held back. This disc reminds one of John Coltrane’s ballads recording where less was more. Bringing forth Allen and Abercrombie’s spiritual/folk side is a valued gift. Lloyd’s largess here is his sincerity. The distinctness of this music is a break from the artificiality of many responses to 9-11. Lloyd’s belief in humanity and reliance on the healing and redemptive qualities of music propels this compassionate recording. ~ Mark Corroto https://www.allaboutjazz.com/lift-every-voice-charles-lloyd-ecm-records-review-by-mark-corroto.php

Personnel:  Charles Lloyd - tenor saxophone, flute, tarogato; Geri Allen - piano; John Abercrombie - guitar; Marc Johnson - double bass; Larry Grenadier - double bass; Billy Hart - drums

Lift Every Voice Disc 1 And Disc 2

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Rick Margitza - Work It

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 1995
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 59:04
Size: 135,9 MB
Art: Front

(9:09)  1. Steppin' out
(7:53)  2. Work it
(9:47)  3. My foolish heart
(7:07)  4. Your lady
(8:02)  5. It could happen to you
(9:08)  6. Last season/Widows walk
(7:55)  7. A sour mystery of bird

One of the "young lions," Rick Margitza is an excellent tenor saxophonist most inspired by Wayne Shorter, Michael Brecker, and John Coltrane. He started on the violin when he was four (his grandfather was a cellist and his father a violinist with the Detroit Symphony), studied classical piano for a bit, and also played oboe before switching to tenor in high school. 

He attended Wayne State University, Berklee, the University of Miami, and finally Loyola University in New Orleans, where he lived and played for four years. Margitza toured with Maynard Ferguson and also Flora Purim and Airto before moving to New York in 1988. He spent part of 1988 in Miles Davis' group and then cut three sets as a leader for Blue Note during 1989-1991. His 1994 outing for Challenge found Margitza showing increasing individuality. ~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/artist/rick-margitza-mn0000855174/biography

Personnel:  Rick Margitza (Tenor sax); George Mraz (Bass); James Williams (Piano); Billy Hart (Drums).

Work It

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Chico Freeman - Spirit Sensitive

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2008
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 63:34
Size: 146,8 MB
Art: Front

(4:15)  1. Autumn in New York
(5:39)  2. Peace
(7:42)  3. A Child Is Born
(7:24)  4. Lonnie's Lament
(4:19)  5. You Don't Have to Say You're Sorry
(7:00)  6. Wise One
(6:21)  7. It Never Entered My Mind
(8:52)  8. Close to You Alone
(7:36)  9. Carnival
(4:21) 10. Don't Get Around Much Anymore

This set was a change-of-pace for Chico Freeman for it features the usually adventurous tenor (who doubles on soprano) mostly playing warm versions of standards.

The CD reissue adds four previously unissued selections (including a pair of Coltrane tunes, "Lonnie's Lament" and "Wise One") to the original program. With pianist John Hicks, bassist Cecil McBee and either Billy Hart or Don Moye on drums offering fine support (vibraphonist Jay Hoggard sits in on "Carnival"), Freeman pushes at but does not break the boundaries of hard bop. Highlights include "Autumn in New York" (a duet with McBee), Horace Silver's "Peace," "It Never Entered My Mind" and the bassist's "Close to You Alone." ~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/album/spirit-sensitive-mw0000204353

Personnel:  Chico Freeman - tenor saxophone, soprano saxophone; Cecil McBee – bass; John Hicks – piano; Billy Hart - drums; Famoudou Don Moye - drums

Spirit Sensitive

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