Renee Olstead - Renee Olstead

Styles: Jazz, Vocal

Year: 2004
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 44:24
Size: 106,0 MB
Art: Front

(4:12)  1. Summertime
(3:31)  2. Taking A Chance On Love
(3:20)  3. Is You Or Is You Ain't My Baby?
(4:26)  4. Someone To Watch Over Me
(4:11)  5. Breaking Up Is Hard To Do
(3:32)  6. A Love That Will Last
(2:56)  7. Meet Me, Midnight
(4:34)  8. Sunday Kind Of Love
(3:16)  9. On A Slow Boat To China
(3:27) 10. What A Difference A Day Makes
(3:21) 11. Midnight At The Oasis
(3:32) 12. Sentimental Journey

With a seriously bluesy jazz voice, Olstead wows everyone who hears her, including the renowned David Foster who co-produced this album of classics. Unless someone told you, you might never suspect that Olstead is only in high school! Renee Olstead...hear her...you won't believe your ears. 

No less an expert on pop affairs than Neil Sedaka likens the impossibly mature voice of 14-year-old vocalist/TV star (CBS' Still Standing) Renee Olstead to "Patsy Cline, Ella Fitzgerald and Billie Holiday all wrapped in one." There's no disputing the sultry vocal talents showcased on this debut that balances familiar chestnuts from the great American songbook ("Summertime," "Someone to Watch Over Me," "Sentimental Journey") with more recent fare that veers from R 'n' B sass ("Is You Is Or Is You Ain't My Baby") to 70s chart hits like Sedaka's own "Breaking Up Is Hard to Do" and Maria Muldaur's "Midnight at the Oasis." 

A cynical ear might question how much of Olmstead's own life informs these bluesy performances: how trying can eigth grade be for an attractive redhead with a major label contract? Indeed, the tagline for at least one latter-day Ella Fitzgerald project comes frequently to mind here: "Is it real, or it Memorex?" Olmstead is yet another teen protege of hugely successful producer David Foster (who's midwifed the careers of Josh Groban and Michael Buble in recent years), and he provides her with some sturdy jazz arrangements to riff emotively on here even if his production is as slick and bloodless as ever. Still, Foster's penchant for overwrought melodrama is kept mercifully in check on his own composition "I Want a Love to Last," while his shrewd teaming of the young chanteuse with fellow teen pop phenom Peter Cincotti on Sedaka's "Breaking Up.." deftly underscores the promising talents of both. ~ Jerry McCulley - Editorial Reviews  http://www.amazon.com/Renee-Olstead-RENEE-OLSTEAD/dp/B00020HEL6

Personnel: Reneé Olstead (vocals); Carol Weisman (vocals); Dean Parks (guitar, acoustic guitar); Don Shelton (clarinet, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone);  Warren Luening (trumpet); Alan Broadbent, Billy Childs, Billy Childs Trio, Gerald Clayton (piano); Brian Bromberg (bass instrument); Jeff Hamilton , David Tull (drums); Neil Devor (programming); Peter Cincotti (vocals, piano); Dennis Budimir (guitar); Chris Botti, Rick Baptist (trumpet); Chris Dawson (piano); Joe La Barbera, Vinnie Colaiuta (drums).

Renee Olstead

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Brian Bromberg - Hands: Solo Acoustic Bass

Styles: Post Bop
Year: 2009
Time: 54:16
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 124,3 MB
Art: Front

(4:49) 1. Stella By Starlight
(2:05) 2. Cute
(2:57) 3. Solar
(5:58) 4. Beatles Medley: Day Tripper / Yesterday / Eleanor Rigby
(4:48) 5. Manha De Carnival
(5:35) 6. In A Sentimental Mood
(3:54) 7. King Of Pain
(3:36) 8. Teen Town
(5:16) 9. Susumu's Blues
(4:50) 10. Use Me
(3:05) 11. Black Dog
(3:20) 12. What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life
(3:56) 13. Yeah

Bromberg was born on December 5, 1960, in Tucson, Arizona. His father and brother both played drums, which influenced him to take up the instrument, and at the age of 13 he began seriously pursuing a career as a drummer. Around this time, the leader of his school orchestra steered him towards the upright bass. From then on, he committed himself to a strict practice regimen and even "tested out of high school early" because of the rigorous schedule he set for himself.

Bromberg felt it was essential to gain experience playing live and he accepted virtually every gig he could get. He often played "five to seven nights a week with several different bands." In 1979, Marc Johnson, the bassist working with jazz pianist Bill Evans, heard Bromberg's playing and recommended him to saxophonist Stan Getz, who needed a new bass player. Getz auditioned Bromberg and hired him, and at the age of 19, with only six years of experience on the bass, he found himself touring internationally. Bromberg later worked with other big names in the music business, and become a producer for artists in his genre.

In March 2011, Bromberg partnered with Carvin Guitars to produce a signature model electric bass. The B24 and B25 were based on his own design, which had previously been manufactured by Peavey and Dean. In 2014, Carvin rebranded to Kiesel for most new instruments, and the Brian Bromberg model followed suit in 2015.More.......https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brian_Bromberg

Hands: Solo Acoustic Bass

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Brian Bromberg - In the Spirit of Jobim

Styles: Jazz/Bossa
Year: 2007
Time: 64:15
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 147,1 MB
Art: Front

(3:50) 1. One Note Samba
(4:53) 2. Wave
(5:45) 3. Coastline Drive
(5:23) 4. Little Tune
(7:08) 5. Triste/Desafinado
(5:56) 6. Corcovado
(7:30) 7. Once I Loved
(6:12) 8. Isn't It Beautiful
(5:33) 9. Ray of Sunshine
(7:08) 10. Talia (for my niece)
(6:41) 11. Ellen (for Ellen Cohn)
(5:21) 12. The Girl From Ipanema

When an intensely creative and prolific artist such as Brian Bromberg decides to devote two full releases to the music of (or inspired by) another creative, you can imagine the respect is deep and the results bound to be at least interesting if not amazing. Bassist virtuoso, producer/composer Bromberg has embraced the repertoire of two icons, Jimi Hendrix and Antonio Carlos Jobim. The interpretations are heartfelt. Inspired and immense in musicality.By Editorial Reviews
https://www.amazon.com/Spirit-Jobim-Brian-Bromberg/dp/B00861J3EE

Personnel: Bass [Nylon String Piccolo Bass], Bass [Upright] – Brian Bromberg

Featuring: Airto, Alex Acuña, Corey Allen, Gary Meek, Joel Taylor, Mike Shapiro (2), Mitch Forman, Oscar Castro-Neves, Otmaro Ruiz, Ramon Stagnaro, The Rising Sun Orchestra String Section

In the Spirit of Jobim

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Brian Bromberg - The Magic of Moonlight

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
Year: 2023
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 67:14
Size: 154,4 MB
Art: Front

(6:39) 1. The Magic of Moonlight
(6:57) 2. Nico’s Groove
(3:40) 3. A New Dawn
(5:44) 4. So, You Think You’re All That?
(6:53) 5. Just Another Beautiful Day
(6:02) 6. Last Day of Summer
(5:39) 7. The Third Child
(6:48) 8. The Orient Express
(5:20) 9. Bedtime Story
(5:49) 10. The Pink Moment
(7:38) 11. In the Hands of God

The Magic of Moonlight is both an evocative and an apt title for this latest outing; as opposed to its predecessor, the freewheeling, open-road feel of A Little Driving Music, Bromberg’s latest album is deeply imbued with the shadow-cloaked mystery and twilight romance of an evening under the full moon. The feeling is also captured on the Magic Hour wonder of “The Pink Moment,” the nickname for the multi-hued sunset on the Topatopa Mountains near Bromberg’s home outside Ojai, California.

“There's a little bit of mystique in the moonlight,” Bromberg muses. “This album has some mysterious vibes and spirituality along with the feel-good, positive energy, so the name just seemed to fit.”

Originally from Tucson, Arizona, Bromberg started out on the drums before switching to the bass at the behest of his junior high school band director though that driving, rhythmic foundation has remained a core component of Bromberg’s sound. With the help of bass great Marc Johnson, then touring as a member of the Bill Evans Trio, Bromberg landed a gig with the legendary saxophonist Stan Getz in late 1979, when he was just 19 years old.

Bromberg has hardly stopped for a moment’s breath since then. In the ensuing decades he’s performed, recorded or toured with a stunning roster of artists across a spectrum of genres. While it might be easier to list the names that he hasn’t played with, a partial list of collaborators will have to suffice: Joshua Redman, Roy Hargrove, Sarah Vaughan, Bob James, George Benson, Lionel Hampton, Chris Botti, Najee, Whitney Houston, Christina Aguilera, Diana Krall, Dizzy Gillespie, Josh Groban, Mike Stern, Dave Koz, Sting, Michael Brecker, Stanley Clarke, Stanley Jordan even Jerry Lewis. And that’s just scratching the surface.

1986’s A New Day launched Bromberg’s solo career, while his follow-up, Basses Loaded, cemented his place in the front ranks of bass innovators. In the years to follow he released a series of acoustic jazz projects alternating with more electric contemporary outings. He recorded tributes to Jaco Pastorius, Jimi Hendrix and Antonio Carlos Jobim and fronted a full orchestra. Throughout he’s captivated audiences and fellow musicians with his staggering agility on an array of basses: four- and five-string axes, hollowbody electric, acoustic, and the piccolo bass, on which his shredding solos rival the speed and versatility of any electric guitar wizard.

The Magic of Moonlight features an all-star roster of guests tailored to the music that Bromberg has devised for the sessions, supplementing a core band that includes drummers Joel Taylor and Tony Moore, keyboardist Tom Zink, guitarist Gannin Arnold and percussionist Lenny Castro. Smooth jazz sax superstar Everette Harp graces three tunes, playing tenor on the title track and the breezy, wind-in-your-hair “Last Day of Summer,” and soprano on the tender “The Third Child,” lovingly dedicated to Bromberg’s sister.

Fusion sax great Gary Meek, well known for his long association with Airto Moreira and Flora Purim, adds his sinuous soprano to the winsome “Just Another Beautiful Day.” Charlie Bisharat’s mesmerizing violin and Grant Geissman’s sitar guitar combine to add a tinge of otherworldliness to the fusion-driven exoticism of “The Orient Express,” while Lin Rountree’s muted trumpet is the sassy topper on the attitude-fueled funk of “So, You Think You’re All That?”

Though few instrumentalists could combine spellbinding musicianship with entrancing songcraft quite like Bromberg, The Magic of Moonlight is another left-field surprise in a discography full of them. “It's impossible for me to make the same record twice,” Bromberg shrugs. “I like to surprise people. The music comes first.”
https://bassmagazine.com/artists/brian-bromberg-announces-new-album-the-magic-of-moonlight

The Magic of Moonlight

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Toots Thielemans - Brasil Project Vol. 2

Styles: Harmonica Jazz
Year: 1993
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 51:37
Size: 143,6 MB
Art: Front

(5:30)  1. Ce
(3:36)  2. Choro Bandido
(3:19)  3. Retrato em Branco e Preto
(3:34)  4. Obsession
(3:08)  5. Travessia
(4:25)  6. Flora
(5:17)  7. Unconditional Love
(2:59)  8. Papel Maché
(3:36)  9. O Futebol
(3:48) 10. Linda
(3:22) 11. Samba de Uma Nota Só
(5:21) 12. Oceano
(3:36) 13. Samba de Orfeu

Guitarist, harmonica player, and whistler Toots Thielemans' followup to the critically acclaimed Brasil Project doesn't stray far from its predecessor's path. There are 13 nice Afro-Latin selections with Thielemans backing such top Brazilian vocalists as Milton Nascimento, Gilberto Gil, Ivan Lins, Caetano Veloso, and Dori Caymmi, among others, and guitarists Oscar Castro-Nieves and Lee Ritenour assisting Thielemans with delicate shadings and accompaniment.By Ron Wynn
http://www.allmusic.com/album/the-brasil-project-vol-2-mw0000098552

Personnel includes: Toots Thielemans (harmonica); Edu Lobo, Milton Nascimento (vocals); John Clark (French horn, hornette); Eliane Elias (piano);  Mike Lang, Dave Grusin (keyboards); Ivan Lins (keyboards, vocals); Joao Bosco, Djavan, Dori Caymmi (guitar, vocals); Lee Ritenour, Oscar Castro-Neves, Luis Bonfa (guitar); Eugene Friesen (cello); Brian Bromberg, Marc Johnson, Jamil Joanes (bass); Steve Schaeffer, Teo Lima (drums); Cassio Duarte, Bira Hawal, Paulinho Da Costa (percussion).

Brasil Project Vol. 2

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Toots Thielemans - The Brasil Project

Styles: Guitar And Harmonica Jazz
Year: 1992
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 55:51
Size: 128,9 MB
Art: Front

(3:57)  1. Começar de Novo
(4:23)  2. Obi
(3:00)  3. Felicia And Bianca
(4:10)  4. O Cantador
(2:57)  5. Joanna Francesa
(4:26)  6. Coisa Feita
(3:18)  7. Preciso Aprender a Ser Só
(5:41)  8. Fruta Boa
(4:29)  9. Coração Vagabundo
(3:29) 10. Manhã de Carnaval
(3:39) 11. Casa Fortes
(2:35) 12. Moments
(9:41) 13. Blusette

This popular set matches the brilliant harmonica player Toots Thielemans with such top Brazilian performers as Ivan Lins, Djavan, Oscar Castro-Neves, Dori Caymmi, Ricardo Silveira, João Bosco, Gilberto Gil, Milton Nascimento, Caetano Veloso, Luiz Bonfá, Edu Lobo and Eliane Elias, in addition to bassist Brian Bromberg, keyboardist Michael Lang, trumpeter Mark Isham and Dave Grusin. Thielemans is often in a supportive role behind the many soothing Brazilian singers and performers. The atmospheric date surprisingly does not have any Antonio Carlos Jobim songs, instead emphasizing lesser-known tunes (other than Toots' greatest hit "Bluesette"). Easily recommended to fans of Brazilian pop and jazz, this CD was soon followed by a second (and equally rewarding) set featuring many of the same performers. ~ Scott Yanow http://www.allmusic.com/album/the-brasil-project-mw0000081385

Personnel: Toots Thielemans (harmonica, guitar, whistle); Milton Nascimento, Chico Buarque (vocals); Djavan, Joao Bosco, Dori Cayammi, Gilberto Gil, Caetano Veloso, Edu Lobo, Luis Bonfa (guitar, vocals); Lee Ritenour, Oscar Castro-Neves, Ricardo Silveira (guitar); Mark Isham (trumpet); Dave Grusin, Eliane Elias (piano); Gilson Peranzzetta, Mike Lang (keyboards); Ivan Lins (keyboards, vocals); Brian Bromberg, Jamil Joanes, Nico Assumpcao, Marc Johnson (bass); Teo Lima (drums); Cassio Duarte, Bira Hawai, Jose Roberto, Paulinho Da Costa (percussion).

The Brasil Project

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Oscar Castro-Neves - All One

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 63:07
Size: 144.5 MB
Styles: Bossa Nova, Brazilian jazz
Year: 2006
Art: Front

[4:51] 1. Double Rainbow
[4:49] 2. All One
[4:10] 3. Kurski Funk
[4:47] 4. Morrer De Amore (I Live To Love You)
[5:18] 5. Holding With An Open Hand
[2:46] 6. Não Me Diga Adeus
[4:41] 7. Naima
[4:42] 8. Historia De Un Amor
[4:53] 9. 'round Midnight
[5:23] 10. The Very Thought Of You
[5:05] 11. More Than Yesterday
[2:47] 12. There Will Never Be Another You
[4:36] 13. Prelude Op. 28, No. 20
[4:16] 14. One Bad Habit

Acoustic Bass – Brian Bromberg; Backing Vocals – Isela Sotelo, Kenny O'Brien, Luis Chaparro, Paulina Aguirre; Drums – Alex Acuña, Mike Shapiro; Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone [Soprano, Tenor], Bass Clarinet – Gary Meek; Percussion – Kevin Richard; Piano, Electric Piano [Fender Rhodes], Clavinet – Don Grusin; Violin, Viola – Charlie Bisharat; Vocals, Guitar, Keyboards, Arranged By – Oscar Castro-Neves.

Oscar Castro-Neves has been one of the most important Brazilian musicians on the jazz scene for some time. His skills as a guitarist, vocalist, composer, and arranger are all on display in this release. Starting with a swinging instrumental setting of Antonio Carlos Jobim's "Double Rainbow," which incorporates Charlie Bisharat's Gypsy-like violin, Gary Meek's multiple reeds, and pianist Don Grusin, Castro-Neves signals that this is not going to be a predictable release. His compositions include the funky, strutting "All One" and the infectious "Holding with an Open Hand." The surprising rendition of "'Round Midnight" begins dramatically, then suddenly turns into a lively upbeat bossa nova. Equally compelling are his arrangements of standards like "The Very Thought of You" and "There Will Never Be Another You," both of which feature his warm, friendly vocals. The only disappointment is the inclusion of smooth jazzer Michael Franks' lightweight, monotonous "One Bad Habit" to close an otherwise flawless CD.By Ken Dryden

All One

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Orna - The Very Thought Of You

Styles: Vocal
Year: 2003
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 44:17
Size: 101,5 MB
Art: Front

(4:27) 1. Ntyilo, Ntyilo
(5:03) 2. Nature Boy
(4:12) 3. My Ship
(5:50) 4. The Very Thought Of You
(3:51) 5. That's All
(4:29) 6. My Favorite Things
(4:15) 7. Alice In Wonderland
(4:59) 8. My One And Only Love
(4:31) 9. Ornithology
(2:35) 10. Every Flower

The South African-born vocalist Orna, carrying a distinctive lightness in her highly accurate vocal delivery, sits down with Brian Bromberg and a stellar ensemble for a session that revels in its simplicity. Favoring a light samba lilt and surrounded, in part, by synth strings, the persuasive singer gives pause to one of those rainy days we’ve been dreaming of. Her debut stands apart as an album just made for kicking back and takin’ the afternoon off. The title track brings a smile to one’s face, as the realization sinks in that good jazz ballad singers are once again pulling in high ratings. Straight-ahead jazz and smooth jazz have another champion. When Orna’s trio takes turns soloing and trading fours with the drummer, they’re simply reminding today’s generations that great music is timeless.

After graduation from South Africa’s University of Witwatersrand in 1993, Orna studied film scoring at the Berklee College of Music in Boston. She cites Chet Baker, Shirley Horn and Sting as major vocal influences. When she scats in unison with bass on Charlie Parker’s “Ornithology,” she proves that she can handle the whole world of jazz, from early ballads to bebop, the blues, and beyond.~Jim Santella https://www.allaboutjazz.com/the-very-thought-of-you-orna-a440-music-review-by-jim-santella

Personnel: Orna- vocals; Brian Bromberg- acoustic bass, acoustic piccolo bass guitar; Tom Zink- piano, keyboards; Chris Wabich- drums, percussion; Tony Guerrero- trumpet, flugelhorn; Gannin Arnold- guitar; Gary Meek- flute.

The Very Thought Of You

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Chris Botti - When I Fall In Love

Styles: Trumpet Jazz 
Year: 2004
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 58:49
Size: 135,7 MB
Art: Front

(4:22)  1. When I Fall In Love
(5:09)  2. What'll I Do
(6:04)  3. No Ordinary Love
(3:21)  4. My Romance
(3:41)  5. Let's Fall In Love
(4:57)  6. Cinema Paradiso
(4:36)  7. Someone To Watch Over Me
(5:31)  8. La Belle Dame Sans Regrets
(3:11)  9. Nearness Of You
(4:03) 10. How Love Should Be
(4:09) 11. Make Someone Happy
(4:53) 12. One For My Baby
(4:44) 13. Time To Say Goodbye (Con te Partiro)

While his ballad album emphasizes the clear tone and gentle spirit that this lyrical trumpeter releases quite naturally, it also serves to exhibit the nuances with which Chris Botti can convince. His subtle improvisations ooze heartfelt emotion from start to finish. Comparisons with Miles Davis and Chet Baker prove valid. While Columbia prefers to market his good looks and youthful, boyish charm, they know they've got a winning formula here, in this evocative trumpet soloist. Backed by a large studio orchestra and close friends and acquaintances, Botti interprets thirteen sensual ballads with passion and understanding. And who can resist "Con te Partiro"? As he closes out the album with this dramatic aria, the clear tones of his open trumpet ring through the halls in glory. It's a triumphant closing for a session that pays homage to centuries of lyrical beauty. Botti has harnessed that spine-tingling feeling into his solemn work. As Sting sings "La Belle Dame Sans Regrets" in French, the session turns light and bouncy. He and Botti pour the gentle bossa gracefully and gently. Paula Cole interprets "How Love Should Be" slowly with a dramatic spirit. She builds the piece gradually and infuses a sincere plea. Botti replies with a muted trumpet whisper that tugs at your heartstrings. His "One for My Baby" seals the message for good. Open and boldly confident, the trumpeter makes no secret of his feelings. Late at night, in the wee hours, he's in love with a ballad. Highly recommended for all lovers this one hits home.
 

Personnel: Chris Botti- trumpet, vocals; Shane Fontayne, Dean Parks- guitar; Federico Gonzalez Pena, Greg Phillinganes- piano; Billy Childs- piano, electric piano; Jon Ossman, Brian Bromberg- bass; Billy Kilson, Vinnie Colaiuta - drums; Paulinho Da Costa- percussion; Dominic Miller- guitar on "La Belle Dame Sans Regrets;" Mitch Dalton- guitar on "Someone to Watch Over Me;" Alec Dankworth- bass on "Someone to Watch Over Me;" Ralph Salmins- drums on "Someone to Watch Over Me;" Jeff Lorber- keyboards on "No Ordinary Love;" Bob Sheppard- tenor saxophone on "No Ordinary Love;" Gil Goldstein- accordion on "La Belle Dame Sans Regrets"Paula Cole- vocal on "What'll I Do?" and "How Love Should Be"Jill Zadeh- vocal on "No Ordinary Love; Sting- vocal on "La Belle Dame Sans Regrets;" The London Session Orchestra: Isobel Griffiths- conductor; Ken Silleto, Rolf Wilson, Roger Garland, Thomas Bowes, Jonathan Evans-Jones, Patrick Kiernan, Boguslaw Kostecki, Julian Leaper, Rita Manning, Steve Morris, Maciej Rakowski, Jackie Shave, Cathy Thompson, Debbie Widdup, Paul Willey, Dave Woodcock- violin; Edward Vanderspar, Peter Lale, George Robertson, Ivo Van Der Werff, Vicci Wardman, Bruce White- viola; Anthony Pleeth, Dave Daniels, Caroline Dearnley, Paul Kegg, Anthony Lewis, Frank Schaeffer- cello; Chris Laurence, Mary Scully, Alec Dankworth, Patrick Lannigan- double bass; Fiona Hibbert- harp; Phil Todd, Stan Sulzmann, Karen Jones, Helen Keen- flute, alto flute; Andy Panayi- bass flute; Jane Marshall- English horn; David Theodore- oboe; Nick Rodwell, Anthony Pike- clarinet; Jamie Talbot- bass clarinet, tenor saxophone; Derek Watkins, John Barclay, Guy Barker- trumpet, flugelhorn; Mike Thompson, David Pyatt, Richard Bissill- French horn; Peter Beachill, Richard Edwards, Mark Nightingale- trombone; Dave Stewart- trombone, bass trombone; Nigel Hitchcock- alto saxophone; Mitch Dalton- guitar; Ralph Salmins- drums.

When I Fall In Love

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Brian Bromberg - Jaco

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
Year: 2002
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 57:45
Size: 133,2 MB
Art: Front

(4:48) 1. Come on, Come Over
(7:40) 2. Continuum
(4:52) 3. Teen Town
(6:57) 4. A Remark You Made
(2:54) 5. Portrait of Tracy
(6:12) 6. Three Views of a Secret
(3:44) 7. The Chicken
(5:59) 8. Tears
(4:52) 9. Slang
(4:49) 10. Come on, Come Over (instrumental)
(4:52) 11. Teen Town (Piccolo Bass)

If you look closely at this CD's cover photo of acoustic and electric bassist Brian Bromberg, you'll see that it's styled exactly like that of legendary bass player Jaco Pastorius's first solo recording from 1976. For Bromberg, who played with Stan Getz, Horace Silver, and Lee Ritenour, the magical and mercurial Pastorius was to the electric bass what Jimi Hendrix was to the guitar. On this tribute, with keyboardist Jeff Lorber, saxophonists Bob Mintzer and Eric Marienthal, and percussionist and (ex-Jaco bandmate) Alex Acuna, Bromberg extends and elaborates on Pastorius's unique blend of jazz fusion, world, and soul influences. Bromberg skillfully reinterprets Pastorius's brilliant bass lines on the acoustic and electric bass and changes up the groove on a number of his compositions. "Continuum" and "Three Views of a Secret" are redone with Afro-Caribbean tinges and a funky big-band feel. The two versions of "Teen Town" rock with hip-hop-friendly backbeats, while "The Chicken" and "Come On, Come Over" recall Pastorius's love for the rhythm & blues stars Sam & Dave. The tour de force of the CD is "Slang(ish)," a solo spotlight where Bromberg shows off advanced string-tapping skills that would have made his idol proud.~Eugene Holley Jr. https://www.amazon.ca/Jaco-Brian-Bromberg/dp/B00006LHYJ

Jaco

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George Kahn - ...Compared To What

Styles: Straight-ahead/Mainstream
Year: 2004
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 62:55
Size: 144,5 MB
Art: Front

(8:23)  1. On Green Dolphin Street
(4:56)  2. Mercedes the Lady
(5:26)  3. Compared to What
(7:06)  4. 5 to Get Ready 10 to Go
(6:41)  5. Too Much Sax
(6:04)  6. Woodstock
(5:15)  7. Soul Sause
(5:58)  8. Gnomesayin'
(7:14)  9. Alice in Wonderland
(5:48) 10. The Hero's Journey

This crisp, well-crafted, straight-ahead (mostly) set opens auspiciously, with tenor saxophonist Justo Almario wandering into the studio blowing solo, wailing, strolling around seemingly aimlessly; but you can feel there's a method to his melodic madness. About a minute later the bass throbs in behind him with repeated two note statements, followed by the drums, and finally the leader, George Kahn, appears, and the tune gels into the familiar "On Green Dolphin Street," in a finely focused up-tempo mode.

Kahn says playing a solo in front of this band—tenor and trumpet in front of a rhythm section, mostly is like driving a well-tuned Ferrari, and that's a pretty apt comparison for this sound: clean, synchronized, and lightly lubricated for an effortless forward momentum provided by the drive train/rhythm section.

"Mercedes the Lady" introduces Latin sounds. Kahn is adept in an array of styles here. "Compared to What" proves itself a funkier, harder-driving version of the Les McCann/Eddie Harris hit from '68, featuring vocalist Courtney Lemmon, whose soulful take on the lyrics show them to be as relevant in these turbulent times as they were in the late sixties. "5 to Get Ready 10 to Go" has a Kind of Blue -ish feel, with some marvelous mute work by trumpeter John Fumo.

Saxophonist Eric Marienthal sits in on two tunes. His tone, sharp and stinging, always brings a modern edge to the sound. I've loved his playing ever since I first heard it in Chick Corea's Elektric Band's Inside Out (GRP, '90); and he doesn't disappoint here. He just cooks, with a clean, high heat on "Too Much Sax," adding some fire to the title tune as well.

An excellent set, with different styles deftly mixed and held together by the stellar rhythm team behind a bunch of spirited blowing. The title tune alone is worth the price of admission, but then so are all the others. Kahn, piano; Alex Acuna, drums and percussion; and Brian Bromberg, bass: they've got to put out a trio set sometime. ~ Dan Mcclenaghan   

http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=15777#.Ur9FAbTJI0g

Personnel: George Kahn, piano; Alex Acuna, drums and percussion; Justo Almario,tenor and soprano saxophones; Brian Bromberg, bass; John Fumo, trumpet, flugelhorn; with guests Eric Marienthal, tenor and alto saxophones; Courtney Lemmon, vocal on "Compared to What";  Ira Ingler, guitar

...Compared To What

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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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Brian Bromberg - Metal

Styles: Jazz Fusion, Jazz-Rock
Year: 2005
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 52:22
Size: 120,7 MB
Art: Front

(5:21)  1. Good Morning
(8:47)  2. The Dungeon
(5:36)  3. Through the Window
(5:57)  4. Trade Show
(5:50)  5. Carlos
(5:35)  6. Top Down
(5:38)  7. Fooled Ya!
(3:54)  8. The Message Within
(5:39)  9. Flight of the Phoenix

Brian Bromberg, a highly versatile bassist who can play straight-ahead jazz, fusion, smooth, and adventurous music with equal skill, is a masterful tapper too. On this rockish fusion set, most of the selections have just Bromberg joined by drummer Joel Taylor. Bromberg utilizes an overdubbed piccolo bass like a guitar (so one would swear this was a guitar-driven power trio) in addition to his standard electric bass. 

Keyboardist Dan Siegel is on two numbers and drummer Tom McCauley subs for Taylor on one song, but otherwise all of the music is made by the two musicians. The results are nine rock-oriented originals played with plenty of spirit, passion, and fun in addition to the expected virtuosity.~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/album/metal-mw0000266459

Personnel:  Brian Bromberg - electric bass, piccolo bass; Dan Siegel - piano; Joel Taylor - drums

Metal

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Brian Bromberg - A New Day

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
Year: 1986
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 47:11
Size: 108,2 MB
Art: Front

(4:35)  1. Summertime
(6:23)  2. Sunrise
(7:09)  3. Take A Walk In The Park With Me
(5:25)  4. Shana
(6:02)  5. Mushy Tushy
(5:08)  6. It's A New Day
(6:03)  7. My Funny Valentine
(6:24)  8. Oriental Ho-Down

Bassist Brian Bromberg's debut as a leader finds him alternating between acoustic and electric and welcoming such guests as tenorman Ernie Watts, Joe Farrell (on his final recording date) and, during "Take a Walk in the Park With Me," flugelhornist Freddie Hubbard. This diverse LP (which has not yet been reissued on CD) ranges from fairly straight-ahead to some funk and fusion; Bromberg performs six originals, plus "Summertime" and "My Funny Valentine." An enjoyable set, although not essential. 

~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/album/new-day-mw0000947779

Personnel: Brian Bromberg - keyboards, fretless bass, producer, executive producer; Ernie Watts - tenor saxophone; Greg Armstrong - soprano saxophone; Joe Farrell - flute; Freddie Hubbard - trumpet; Arthur Statman - keyboards;  Kei Akagi - keyboards; Guy Moon - keyboards; Carl Cherry - drums; Alex Acuña - percussion, drums.

A New Day

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Brian Bromberg - Brian Bromberg

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
Year: 1993
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 65:21
Size: 150,8 MB
Art: Front

(4:50)  1. Summer Afternoon
(5:16)  2. Bass Face
(5:04)  3. Her Eyes Her Heart
(5:09)  4. My Brother
(5:03)  5. Tunnel Vision
(5:01)  6. I'll Be Around This Time
(5:02)  7. Intimidage
(4:07)  8. Yo!
(4:06)  9. Bern City
(6:54) 10. Sedona
(5:59) 11. The Blessing
(5:06) 12. Her Eyes Her Heart
(3:39) 13. My Bass

On his self-titled album for Nova, bassist Brian Bromberg employs a who's who of smooth jazz and fusion talent for a varied outing that runs the gamut. Kenny Rankin appears on the vocal version of the hit "Her Eyes, Her Heart,"  its instrumental is also included  while guitarist Lee Ritenour, keyboard and programming whiz Jeff Lorber, and Kirk Whalum trade places with the likes of jazz harmonica boss Toots Thielemans and saxophone master Ernie Watts, who get in the groove too. Ivan Lins lends his vocal talents to a few numbers as well. In some ways, this is a very schizophrenic recording, though it works well. 

There are groovers like the opener "Summer Afternoon," which walks the jazz-funk tightrope, smooth cuts like the aforementioned, "My Brother," and "Intimadagé," and knotty fusion workouts such as "Tunnel Vision," and "Sedona," and even big groovers like "Yo!," with Thielemans, and Bob Boykin's "Bern City." What makes the album hold together so beautifully is sequencing. It's a big, glossy production handled by Bromberg's brother David (no relation to the American roots music master), but gives listeners a bit of everything. [Artistry Music re-released the CD in 2005.] ~ Thom Jurek https://www.allmusic.com/album/brian-bromberg-mw0000349618

Brian Bromberg

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Brian Bromberg - Wood

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
Year: 2002
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 52:21
Size: 119,9 MB
Art: Front

(6:15)  1. The Saga of Harrison Crabfeathers
(7:18)  2. Dolphin Dance
(5:21)  3. Come Together
(4:01)  4. Goodbye (For My Father)
(4:53)  5. Speak Low
(3:26)  6. Freedom Jazz Dance
(5:27)  7. I Love You
(3:35)  8. Straight No Chaser
(5:24)  9. All Blues
(4:32) 10. The Days of Wine and Roses
(2:04) 11. Star Spangled Banner

Wood is Brian Bromberg's debut for the A440 Music Group, and it is a very strong example of his extraordinary straight-ahead jazz skills as presented in three exciting formats. In addition to the six tracks he performs in a trio setting with drummer David Bromberg and pianist Randy Waldman, Brian Bromberg duets with Waldman on the inimitable "Days of Wine and Roses" and the beautiful tribute "Goodbye (For My Father)," which was previously released on You Know That Feeling. Two amazing solo performances "Come Together" and "Star Spangled Banner"  add further credence to Bromberg's technical and creative virtuosity as one of the premier jazz bassists of his generation. This set is also remarkable because Brian Bromberg is playing the same upright acoustic bass a 300-year-old Matteo Guersam, crafted in Milan in the 18th century  that he used for his professional debut with saxophone legend Stan Getz. Despite its age, the wood (hence the title) emanates rich, mellow sounds that perfectly complement such jazz gems as Miles Davis' "All Blues," Herbie Hancock's "Dolphin Dance," and Thelonious Monk's "Straight No Chaser." Bromberg's tapping method on "Come Together" provides clear and convincing evidence of his mastery of this technique, while his awesome pizzicato chops are burnin' on "Speak Low." Wood is a radical departure from Bromberg's world-renowned smooth jazz releases New Day, Magic Rain, BASSically Speaking, and You Know That Feeling but nevertheless showcases the exceptional bass techniques that garnered him critical acclaim as one of the 100 best bassists of the 20th century. A definite must have. ~Paula Edelstein  https://www.allmusic.com/album/wood-mw0000659096

Personnel:  Brian Bromberg - acoustic bass;  David Bromberg - drums;  Randy Waldman - piano.

Wood

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David Benoit & Gregg Bissonette, Brian Bromberg - Great Composers Of Jazz

Styles: Piano Jazz, Post Bop
Year: 2000
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 51:54
Size: 120,4 MB
Art: Front

(5:13)  1. Brother Go To Mothers
(4:00)  2. Cute
(6:01)  3. Django
(4:11)  4. Blue Rondo a La Turk
(4:40)  5. Some Other Time
(4:57)  6. Cakewalk
(6:02)  7. Stardust
(4:05)  8. Straight No Chaser
(5:14)  9. I Loves You Porgy
(7:27) 10. Waltz For Debby

The newly formed Vertical Jazz Records debuts with an attractive, six-CD series of straightahead trio, quartet and quintet recordings showcasing top West Coast jazz artists, many of whom had never recorded together before. Because these musicians have leaned toward pop-jazz or pursued unidentified studio work, they may surprise you with their stunning straightahead remakes of standards. These sessions, recorded under direction of executive producer/president Suzanne Severini last spring at Ocean Way Recording Studios in Hollywood, prove the label is off to a strong start. In their scintillating 10-tune tribute to the piano trio tradition of Bill Evans, The Great Composers of Jazz, pianist David Benoit, bassist Bromberg and drummer Bissonette deliver polished versions of warhorse standards. Highlights include a rousing take on Dave Brubeck’s “Blue Rondo La Turk,” a lovely reading of the Modern Jazz Quartet classic, “Django” and a sweeping version of Evans’ most famous composition, “Waltz for Debbie.” Bromberg’s 280-year-old bass adds sonorously to the session, especially when he plays the head on “Straight, No Chaser.” Included are provocative remakes of Oscar Peterson’s “Cakewalk,” Hoagy Carmichael’s “Stardust,” Neal Hefti’s “Cute” and more. ~ Nancy Ann Lee https://jazztimes.com/reviews/albums/david-benoitgreg-bissonettebrian-bromberg-the-great-composers-of-jazz/

Personnel:  David Benoit (Piano); Brian Bromberg (Bass); Gregg Bissonette (Drums).

Great Composers Of Jazz

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Brian Bromberg - Thicker Than Water

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
Year: 2018
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 66:55
Size: 154,7 MB
Art: Front

(5:35)  1. Is That the Best You Can Do?
(5:59)  2. Minneapolis, 1987
(6:32)  3. Thicker Than Water
(1:26)  4. Coupe De Ville (Intro)
(6:06)  5. Coupe De Ville
(3:27)  6. Changes
(7:46)  7. Trials and Tribulations
(2:12)  8. It's Called Life (Intro)
(5:59)  9. It's Called Life (For Mom)
(7:06) 10. Uh-Huh
(5:58) 11. Your Eyes
(6:34) 12. Land of the Rising Sun
(2:10) 13. A Familia

Brian Bromberg specializes in smooth jazz. That's music with rough edges removed. He plays it on basses, upright and electric, and on piccolo basses which are tuned to sound like guitars. It's all fiendishly clever but Bromberg remains modest. He uses a whole side of the album's cover to thank everyone, including God, "for trusting me with the gifts that you have given me." He's had his ups and downs. In 1979, when he was just 19, Bromberg toured with Stan Getz, then went on to release a series of solo albums used all over the world to demonstrate high quality stereo equipment, and was nominated for a Grammy. Then two years ago an accident resulted in him breaking his back in two places with severe trauma. He made an amazing recovery, celebrated here with what he describes as "high energy, funky, in-your-face, original music ensconced in memorable melodies, infectious grooves, and deep pocket." George Duke, Randy Brecker, Brandon Fields, and Gary Meek helped in its creation. There's actually a reflective, almost melancholy feel to many of the tracks, with Bromberg paying homage to the blue-eyed soul sounds of his youth. Most are based on funky, repetitive bass riffs, kicking off with "Is That The Best You Can Do?" and "Minneapolis 1987." The title track is looser, more jazzy.  "Coupe De Ville" builds slowly before settling on a bass riff, followed by a tenor solo from Najee, which keeps the proceedings very much on the smooth side of soul. "Trials and Tribulations" sees Bromberg in thoughtful mood but with some very fast piccolo bass work (sounding like guitar). "Uh-Huh" shows off his orchestrating skills with a cast that includes George Duke playing one of his last gigs. "Your Eyes" is a lovely, relaxed ballad and is followed by "Land Of The Rising Sun," Bromberg's take on Japan. This comes as a welcome surprise after all the bass riffing, featuring Mark Hollingsworth on bamboo flutes and June Kuramoto, from the band Hiroshima, on koto. To close, Bromberg reverts to upright bass for "A Familia," keeping it short and sweet, which is how upright bass solos should be. ~ Chris Mosey https://www.allaboutjazz.com/thicker-than-water-brian-bromberg-mack-avenue-records-review-by-chris-mosey.php

Personnel: Brian Bromberg: upright, electric and piccolo bass; Everette Harp, Najee, Doug Webb, Brandon Fields, Gary Meek, Mark Visher, Vince Trombetta, Marion Meadows: saxophone; Lee Thornburg, Randy Brecker, Willy Murillo, Tony Guererro: trumpet; Nick Lane, Jason Thor: trombone; Tom Zink, Brian Simpson, George Duke: keyboards; Gannin Arnold, Paul Jackson Jr.: guitar; June Kuramoto: koto; Franklin Richardson III: drums; Lenny Castro, Alex Acuna: percussion; Mark Hollingsworth: bamboo flutes; Zack Bromberg: loops.

Thicker Than Water

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Brian Bromberg - It's About Time: The Acoustic Project

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 57:48
Size: 132.3 MB
Styles: Bop, Fusion
Year: 1991
Art: Front

[4:58] 1. Dear John
[6:09] 2. Echoes
[4:58] 3. One For The Woofer
[5:50] 4. Waltz For Daphne
[7:12] 5. Yes Or No
[5:55] 6. If I Should Lose You
[7:47] 7. From Dust To Dessert
[5:40] 8. The Gnocchi
[9:15] 9. Buddha Belly

Drums – David Bromberg (2) (tracks: 1 to 7, 9); Piano – Mike Garson (tracks: 1 to 3, 6, 7, 9); Producer, Bass – Brian Bromberg; Saxophone – Ernie Watts (tracks: 2, 4, 5, 8, 9). Recorded live on May 21-22 1991 and mixed at: Garden Rake Studios Sherman Oaks CA.

After a few electric projects, bassist Brian Bromberg decided to record a purely acoustic project. With such sidemen as pianists Mike Garson and Mitch Forman, brother Dave Bromberg on drums, trumpeter Freddie Hubbard (on three songs), and tenors Ernie Watts (on five) and Doug Webb (on two), Bromberg holds his own with the fast company. Some of the selections on this CD are quite memorable, particularly Hubbard's "Dear John," Watts' interpretation of Wayne Shorter's "Yes or No," and the trumpeter's feature on "If I Should Lose You." Although the Nova label has since gone belly-up, this excellent CD might still be found and is certainly worth a search. ~Scott Yanow

It's About Time: The Acoustic Project mc
It's About Time: The Acoustic Project zippy

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Brian Bromberg - You Know That Feeling

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop 
Year: 1998
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 66:42
Size: 155,0 MB
Art: Front

(5:00)  1. Hero (For Zachary Breaux)
(5:36)  2. Through The Window
(4:55)  3. My Love
(5:12)  4. By The Fireplace
(5:23)  5. September
(9:23)  6. I Fell Asleep A Child And Woke Up A Man
(5:13)  7. You Know That Feeling
(6:05)  8. A Love Affair
(5:30)  9. Nananananana
(4:37) 10. Human
(5:23) 11. Joe Cool
(4:18) 12. Goodbye (For My Father)

Few are the bass players who the average music fan can name. There are simply not that many who stand out as more than a member of the rhythm section, however tight. Paul McCartney. Sting. Bootsy Collins. Tony Levin. Gene Simmons. These may be the greater part of a list that, for most, is no larger than one hand long. Shorter still is the list of bassists who can take their playing one step further. Brian Bromberg is one such bass player. Having originally begun his musical career on drums, Bromberg soon switched to classical upright bass. Though this switch was more or less his choice, Bromberg's next musical move was more demanded than decided: in order to get a gig with Stan Getz's band, Bromberg dropped the upright, picked up an electric four-string and, leaving home on his 19th birthday, started down his own musical road less taken. Since then, Bromberg has played with a long list of musical giants, from Stan Getz to James Moody, from Diane Schuur to Nancy Wilson. He has also been heard (and seen) in many popular films and programs, from The Fabulous Baker Boys to Melrose Place. As Bromberg has picked up more and more musical partners, he has also picked up more and more playing styles. In the process, however, he has been able to drop a major piece of the modern jazz ensemble as emphatically stated in the liner notes to You Know That Feeling, "THERE IS NO GUITAR ON THIS ALBUM" (sic). Instead, Bromberg uses a variety of bass bodies and tunings to match registers usually reserved for the six-string. As a result, he is able to match the high vocal line on his convincing cover of Earth, Wind & Fire's "September" and also to offer the Jobim-ish pizzicato of "A Love Affair." Though most of the album consists of programmed "smooth jazz" selections that may turn true jazz fans and aficionados off, Bromberg's versatility and talent are strong enough to command the assistance of modern day giants like Dave Grusin, Tom Scott, Ernie Watts, Joe Sample, and Everette Harp. Despite a few sappy synthesized songs, You Know That Feeling is a solid demonstration of a near unique talent. ~ Matthew Robinson https://www.allmusic.com/album/you-know-that-feeling-mw0000033226

Personnel: Brian Bromberg (strings, piccolo, acoustic bass); Lori Perri, Sean Holt (vocals); Gary Meek (soprano saxophone); Everette Harp (tenor saxophone); Rick Braun (trumpet, flugelhorn); Al Forman, Rob Mullins (piano); Gregg Karukas (keyboards, programming, keyboard programming); Jeff Lorber (keyboards, keyboard programming); John "J. R." Robinson , Joel Taylor (drums); Steve Reid (tambourine); Alex Acuña (percussion, sleigh bell)  

You Know That Feeling

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