Sharel Cassity - Relentless

Styles: Flute And Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2009
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 47:27
Size: 108,9 MB
Art: Front

(4:01)  1. Say What!?
(6:24)  2. Still
(7:10)  3. Relentless
(4:36)  4. Call to Order
(5:20)  5. Love's Lament
(5:37)  6. Song of Those Who Seek
(5:36)  7. No Turning Back
(8:39)  8. On the Nile

Sharel Cassity's second release as a leader gives the alto saxophonist a bit more opportunity to show off her chops, as she adds both soprano sax and flute, while she also focuses extensively on her own compositions, something she omitted from her debut CD, Just for You. Though very youthful in appearance, she's a seasoned musician who started playing young, then detoured from her initial plan to finish her music education at Berklee by opting to play in New York City, where she earned a bachelor's degree at the New School and a master's degree at Juilliard. She has also toured with the all-female Diva big band and Jimmy Heath's big band. Old friend Michael Dease is once again on hand playing trombone, while trumpeter Jeremy Pelt appears on several tracks, with a top-notch rhythm section consisting of veteran pianist Orrin Evans, bassist Dwayne Burno, and drummer E.J. Strickland. Cassity begins on soprano with her delightful brisk blues "Say What?," an intricate number that inspires stimulated improvising all around. Dease, who wrote several numbers for the leader's debut date, penned the warm bossa nova"Relentless," which includes an expanded group with the leader on flute, guests Don Braden on alto flute, flügelhornist Thomas Barber (who also appeared on Just for You), and tenor saxophonist Andres Boyarsky. Cassity's emotional alto sax fits the mood of her bittersweet ballad "Love's Lament," with lush backing by Evans. Cassity doubles on soprano sax and flute (the latter only in the introduction) in Charles Tolliver's enticing, exotic "On the Nile," a harmonically rich arrangement that recalls the power of driving post-bop of the mid-'60s. This is a fine effort by Sharel Cassity, who is clearly one to watch. ~ Ken Dryden https://www.allmusic.com/album/relentless-mw0000824850

Personnel: Sharel Cassity (flute, soprano saxophone, alto saxophone); Don Braden (alto flute); Andres Boyarsky, Andres Boiarsky (tenor saxophone); Jeremy Pelt (trumpet); Thomas Barber (flugelhorn); Michael Dease (trombone); Orrin Evans (piano); E.J. Strickland (drums).

Relentless

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Ron Jackson - Flubby Dubby

Styles: Guitar Jazz
Year: 2011
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 61:54
Size: 143,0 MB
Art: Front

(7:11)  1. One for Melvin
(6:04)  2. The Look of You
(7:02)  3. The Long and Winding Road
(7:48)  4. Flubby Dubby
(7:49)  5. Love Ballad
(6:29)  6. Stars Fell On Alabama
(6:41)  7. Technophile
(7:13)  8. A Calypso Party
(5:33)  9. Get In the Country

New York-based urban guitarist Ron Jackson blends his soulful jazz sound with elements of R&B, funk and even a touch of the Caribbean mood on Flubby Dubby, his sixth album as leader. Leading his classic organ trio, also featuring organist Kyle Koeler and drummer Otis Brown III, the album was recorded live at Cecil's Jazz Club in West Orange, New Jersey, with alto saxophonist Bruce Williams and tenor luminary Don Braden augmenting the band on "The Long And Winding Road" and "Love Ballad." Guitarist Melvin Sparks, part of the burgeoning soul-jazz scene of the late '60s and early '70s, was a friend and mentor to Jackson, producing this date before passing away in March, 2011. The opening "One for Melvin," a swinging bluesy shuffle, serves as a moving dedication to a major influence in the guitarist's development. The swing continues on the grooving "The Look of You," with the trio taking turns soloing on the set's liveliest track. The Lennon/McCartney pop classic "The Long And Winding Road," travels in a different direction, pushed along by a new arrangement featuring Braden and Williams, who jazz up the music by laying down a saxophone background not normally associated with this piece.

The funk comes to life on the title track, recalling instrumental dance songs of James Brown's band with funk saxophonist Maceo Parker. Jackson provides another new arrangement to the R&B classic "Love Ballad," featuring delicious solos from the two guest saxophonists, to roaring applause from the audience. The guitarist himself is no slouch, peeling off one dynamic riff after another, leaving no doubt who's in charge. Serving as the set's gentle piece, "Stars Fell On Alabama" enters calmly and stays there, riding soft chords from the guitarist with warm organ phrasings shoring up the ballad. "A Calypso Party" suggests the music from a party on a cruise ship to the Islands, while the finale, "Get In The Country," ends the date on a funkier note. ~ Edward Blanco https://www.allaboutjazz.com/flubby-dubby-ron-jackson-self-produced-review-by-edward-blanco.php

Personnel: Ron Jackson: guitar; Kyle Koeler: Hammaond B-3 organ; Otis Brown III: drums; Don Braden: tenor saxophone (3, 5); Bruce Williams: alto saxophone (3, 5).

Flubby Dubby

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Xavier Davis - Dance of Life

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 1999
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 62:05
Size: 143,1 MB
Art: Front

(5:28)  1. The Plan Unknown
(6:28)  2. The Nearness of You
(6:09)  3. Time After Time
(6:42)  4. You've Got a Friend
(7:07)  5. Jitterbug Waltz
(8:02)  6. Old Folks
(4:59)  7. Dance of Life
(8:06)  8. Where or When
(3:10)  9. Long Ago and Far Away
(5:51) 10. I Love You

An excellent modern jazz date, this session features pianist Xavier Davis and his quartet playing modernized versions of eight standards (including "The Nearness of You," "Jitterbug Waltz," "Where or When," and Carole King's "You've Got a Friend") plus two of Davis' originals. Along with the leader, the lead voice is frequently Don Braden on tenor and soprano, with fine support from bassist Dwayne Burno and drummer Carl Allen. No new revelations occur, but the musicians make the vintage standards sound fairly new and fresh and there are many fine solos from Davis and Braden. ~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/album/the-dance-of-life-mw0000667046

Personnel: Piano – Xavier Davis; Bass – Dwayne Burno; Drums – Carl Allen; Saxophone – Don Braden

Dance of Life

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Avery Sharpe - 400: an African American Musical Portrait

Styles: Vocal, Hard Bop
Year: 2019
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 57:35
Size: 133,0 MB
Art: Front

(6:03)  1. Arrival
(4:51)  2. Is There A Way Home
(5:36)  3. Colonial Life
(3:02)  4. Fiddler
(5:14)  5. Antebellum
(7:15)  6. A New Music
(5:35)  7. Harlem And The War To End All Wars
(6:54)  8. Blues and World War II
(6:34)  9. Aint Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around
(6:25) 10. 500

In 1619 the White Lion, a British privateer which had just successfully raided a Spanish slave ship, arrived in the Jamestown colony with its contraband cargo of twenty-some African slaves. Thus began the tumultuous legacy of the African American experience in North America a four-hundred-year saga that bassist Avery Sharpe traces skilfully and poignantly on 400: An African American Musical Portrait. Sharpe has never been reluctant to acknowledge the forces that have shaped him musically and culturally. His Legends and Mentors (JKNM Records, 2008) paid tribute to three of his longtime musical colleagues and teachers, McCoy Tyner, Archie Shepp and Yusef Lateef. But consider also his multiple efforts to draw deeply from the well of the black experience in America; projects like Extended Family II: Thoughts of My Ancestors (JKNM Records, 1995) and Epic Ebony Journey (JKNM Records, 2001) sought out the enduring traits of African Americans' resilience and fortitude, locating them within the profound resources of African culture and seeing their evolution through black Americans' various struggles and triumphs. However, those earlier albums seem a mere prelude to 400. This is truly Sharpe's statement record, with a sweeping historical vision conveyed through a well-defined series of ten musical vignettes that encompass four centuries of African American life. It is an ambitious undertaking, to be sure. 

The album has a "family" feel, not only due to the presence of veteran associates like saxophonist Don Braden, drummer Ronnie Burrage, and pianist Zaccai Curtis, all of whom have collaborated previously with Sharpe. Just as important is the "Extended Family Choir," consisting largely of Sharpe's family members, who offer valuable emotional strength and musical heft on four of the cuts. His brother, Kevin Sharpe, directs the ensemble, while his niece, Sofia Rivera, has a particularly stirring turn on an emphatic spoken-word part on "Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me Around," Sharpe's take on the traditional civil rights anthem, which invokes the substantial history of African American protest from the Jim Crow period to Black Lives Matter. The choir's presence on the first two tracks, "Arrival" and "Is There a Way Home," is just as effective, offering a visceral articulation of the fear and foreboding that accompanied slaves' early lives in the colonies along with the burgeoning sustenance for resistance they began to find by looking homeward to the African continent. Sharpe's songwriting strategies are smart ones, utilizing a wide stylistic range to embrace as much of the African American musical tradition as possible. African rhythms and instrumentation (notably, Tendai Muparutsa on the djembe) enliven "Arrival" and "Is There a Way Home," while later historical moments see other idioms emerge. "Fiddler" has both classical and folkish elements, as violinists Kevin Zhou and Sophia Jeongyoon Han give a glimpse of slaves' nascent musical expressions, whereas "A New Music" signals the presence of early jazz through a stately rag from Curtis that segues into jaunty New Orleans swing. Through it all, a spirit of strength and endurance is undeniable, with moments of brightness which continually lighten the music. Guitarist Kevin Eubanks is an essential presence in this regard; even on "Arrival," a track that could easily succumb to despair, Eubanks' nimble acoustic flourishes suggest the possibilities of hope and potential, as they do on several of the cuts. Braden, too, has some energizing moments, soloing fervently on "Arrival" and undertaking a bop-based strut on "Blues and World War II." Fittingly, the album's last track, "500," features strong modern jazz fueled by a post-bop sensibility. It points beyond the album's historical trajectory, both musically and politically, and makes clear that the African American story, like that of jazz itself, is a narrative that is very much still unfolding. ~ Troy Dostert https://www.allaboutjazz.com/400-an-african-american-musical-portrait-avery-sharpe-jknm-records-review-by-troy-dostert.php

Personnel: Avery Sharpe: double bass, vocals; Kevin Eubanks: acoustic and electric guitar; Don Braden: tenor saxophone, soprano saxophone, flute; Ronnie Burrage: drums and percussion; Tendai Muparutsa: djembe; Duane Eubanks: trumpet, flugelhorn; Zaccai Curtis: piano; Davis Whitfield: piano (8); Kevin Zhou: violin; Sophia Jeongyoon Han: violin; Kevin Sharpe, Shaina Paris, Sofia Rivera, Wanda Rivera, Heshima Moja, Robert Rivera: vocals (1, 2, 5, 9).

400: an African American Musical Portrait

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Lonnie Plaxico - Emergence

Styles: Guitar Jazz
Year: 2000
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 63:33
Size: 147,9 MB
Art: Front

(0:31)  1. The Mahayana (Great Vehicle) - Interlude
(4:58)  2. Transformation
(4:05)  3. Delusion
(4:12)  4. Emergence
(1:00)  5. Paramita (To Arrive at the Other Side) - Interlude
(7:34)  6. Libertarian
(3:51)  7. Changing Line
(5:37)  8. Emancipation
(7:34)  9. Red Light District
(2:29) 10. Sokoni (From the Sea) - Interlude
(5:39) 11. Equilibrium
(1:02) 12. 2 Bass - Interlude
(4:44) 13. Inner Voice
(2:39) 14. Kalomo (The Unexpeced) - Interlude
(6:30) 15. Matrix
(1:00) 16. Oji (The Gift Bearer) - Interlude

Emergence begins with a bang but then goes gradually downhill. Plaxico alternates between acoustic and electric bass, and mightily tries to reconcile the jazz and funk elements of his vision. Although most tracks feature driving rhythms, incredibly intricate horn writing, and compelling solos, the album grows numbingly repetitive as it proceeds. On the jazz side, "Transformation" begins the record with riveting post-bop fire, while "Libertarian" and "Red Light District" provide new perspectives on the standards "Dear Old Stockholm" and "Love for Sale," respectively. On the funk side, "Delusion" and "Emancipation" stand out, recalling the dissonant colors heard on Sam Rivers' acclaimed 1999 album Inspiration. But Plaxico seems to run low on ideas by the time he gets to "Equilibrium," "Inner Voice," and Chick Corea's "Matrix." Six brief interludes featuring bass and/or percussion are interspersed throughout the program, yielding mixed results the most effective being "Paramita (to arrive at the other side)." Monster players abound, including the wonderful Don Braden on saxophones, Ralph Alessi on trumpet, and Jason Moran on piano. Emergence is also distinguished by several lesser known but highly capable musicians: Larry Lunetta on trumpet, Tim Hegarty on sax, Eric Lewis on piano and organ, Lionel Cordew on drums, and Jeffrey Haynes on percussion. Haynes produced the interludes, and noted vocalist Cassandra Wilson, for whom Plaxico has served as musical director, produced the main tracks. ~ David R.Adler https://www.allmusic.com/album/emergence-mw0000055907

Personnel:  Lonnie Plaxico (acoustic guitar, electric guitar, bass guitar); Tim Hegarty (saxophone, tenor saxophone); Don Braden (soprano saxophone, tenor saxophone); Ralph Alessi, Larry Lunetta (trumpet); Eric Lewis (piano, electric piano, organ); Jason Moran (piano); Lionel Cordew (drums, percussion); Jeff Haynes (percussion)

Emergence

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Darrell Grant - Twilight Stories

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 1998
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 60:13
Size: 138,2 MB
Art: Front

(4:48)  1. Afrique-Ville
(6:02)  2. Yvette
(6:39)  3. When You Dance That Way
(6:29)  4. Twilight
(6:14)  5. My Old Flame
(5:22)  6. I Thought About You
(5:51)  7. The Resumption
(6:30)  8. Wake Up Call
(7:03)  9. Arise
(5:11) 10. Please Send Me Someone To Love

This session remained unissued in the archives of Muse until it was acquired by Joel Dorn when he purchased the label. Most of Grant's earlier releases were done for European labels, so this CD is a great opportunity to get to know a talented pianist. His originals "Afrique-ville" and "Twilight" showcase his talents as a composer as well as at the keyboard. Also recommended are his mellow take of "My Old Flame" and a snappy, stutter-stepped run through "I Thought About You." Tenor saxophonist Don Braden, bassist Joris Teepe and drummer Cecil Brooks III complement Grant's playing, and each contributed a valuable original to the session. ~ Ken Dryden https://www.allmusic.com/album/twilight-stories-mw0000041334

Personnel:  Darrell Grant, piano; Don Braden, tenor saxophone; Joris Teepe, bass; Cecil Brooks III, drums

Twilight Stories

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Stephen Scott - Aminah's Dream

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 1993
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 57:19
Size: 132,5 MB
Art: Front

(6:32)  1. Aminah's Dream
(4:35)  2. Behind The Scenes
(6:38)  3. Young Confucius
(5:51)  4. Positive Images (Mother, Father)
(5:24)  5. The Pit And The Pendulum
(7:09)  6. When God Created Women
(4:48)  7. L'Ill Bro'... Life Goes On
(4:39)  8. You Are Too Beautiful
(4:58)  9. Moontrane
(6:40) 10. The Spur Of The Moment

One of the most promising of the "Young Lions," pianist Stephen Scott has a versatile style that can range from McCoy Tyner to Wynton Kelly without resorting to mere copying. On his second release as a leader, Scott holds his own during six trio performances with bassist Ron Carter and drummer Elvin Jones. The other four selections add four nonsoloing horns playing harmonies behind Scott's piano. With eight of the ten songs being his originals, this is a fine all-around showcase for the talented Stephen Scott. ~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/album/aminahs-dream-mw0000618597

Personnel:  Piano, Co-producer – Stephen Scott (5); Alto Saxophone – Justin Robinson (tracks: 1,4,6,9); Bass – Ron Carter; Drums – Elvin Jones; Tenor Saxophone – Don Braden (tracks: 1,4,6,9); Trombone – Jamal Haynes (tracks: 1,4,6,9); Trumpet – Terell Stafford (tracks: 1,4,6,9); Tuba – Bob Stewart (tracks: 1)

Aminah's Dream

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Don Braden - Landing Zone

Styles: Saxophone Jazz 
Year: 1995
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 58:40
Size: 134,9 MB
Art: Front

(4:55)  1. Landing Zone
(5:48)  2. You Are The Sunshine Of My Life
(7:58)  3. Nightline
(7:10)  4. Body And Soul
(1:47)  5. The Break
(6:21)  6. Hillside
(7:06)  7. Come Rain Or Come Shine
(5:11)  8. Have You Met Miss Jones
(7:51)  9. A Blue Spree
(3:03) 10. Amsterdam Jam
(1:26) 11. Quadralog

Tenor saxophonist Don Braden is a highly-competent young hard bopper with an attractively reedy tone, flexible technique, and a sure sense of time. This is a straightahead jazz album like dozens of others released in the mid-to-late '90s  better than many, no different from most. Pleasant, untroubling, and ultimately forgettable. Braden's a decent player who might have the potential to be something more. His is an agreeable musical personality, but he's got some stretching to do if he wants to make a lasting contribution. ~ Chris Kelsey https://www.allmusic.com/album/landing-zone-mw0000627954

Personnel:  Don Braden - tenor saxophone;  Kevin Hays - piano;  Cecil Brooks III - drums;  Joris Teepe - bass

Landing Zone

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Don Braden - Gentle Storm

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2008
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 58:15
Size: 133,7 MB
Art: Front

(5:59)  1. Secret Love
(6:24)  2. Gentle Storm
(6:21)  3. Never Can Say Goodbye
(4:21)  4. What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life
(7:58)  5. This Masquerade
(4:52)  6. The Hunter
(7:53)  7. Willow Weep For Me
(5:48)  8. Two Of A Kind
(2:57)  9. My Foolish Heart
(5:37) 10. Speed Ball

Don Braden has come a long way since his days at Harvard, where he studied engineering along with playing in the university's jazz band. Over two decades into his career in jazz at the time of these recording sessions, the tenor saxophonist is very much at the top of his game. Joined by pianist George Colligan, bassist Joris Teepe and drummer Cecil Brooks III, who have all worked together on a number of occasions, Braden assembles a terrific program. He recasts the standard "Secret Love" as a turbulent post-bop vehicle, with Colligan showing shades of McCoy Tyner. Braden's laconic, blues-drenched setting of another standard, "Willow Weep For Me," features some of his most heartfelt playing of the date. Braden offers a punchy take of Lee Morgan's hard bop masterpiece, "Speedball." Not many artists could take a hit from the pop group The Jackson Five and turn it into meaningful jazz, but Braden's bluesy treatment of "Never Can Say Goodbye," in a mid-tempo groove, works perfectly. Leon Russell's "This Masquerade" has been tackled by jazz players with mixed success; the tenorist's punchy, soulful arrangement makes it one of the better interpretations. Braden switches to alto flute for a warm rendition of "My Foolish Heart," accompanied solely by Teepe. The leader's originals are just as valuable. "Gentle Storm" is a low key, lyrical bossa nova, while "The Hunter" is an intricate duet with Teepe. ~ Ken Dryden https://www.allaboutjazz.com/gentle-storm-don-braden-highnote-records-review-by-ken-dryden.php

Personnel: Don Braden: tenor sax, alto flute; George Colligan: piano; Joris Teepe: bass, Cecil Brooks III: drums.

Gentle Storm

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Scott Wendholt - Through the Shadows

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 1994
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 54:10
Size: 125,0 MB
Art: Front

(8:04)  1. Through the Shadows
(7:57)  2. Hour of the Pearl
(5:05)  3. Kaleidoscope
(5:33)  4. You Know I Care
(7:36)  5. Totem
(6:23)  6. Beatrice
(7:26)  7. Awaiting Spring
(6:01)  8. Just In Time

On trumpeter Scott Wendholt's second recording as a leader he has gathered together a group of his better-known peers  tenor saxophonist Don Braden, pianist Bruce Barth, bassist Ira Coleman, and drummer Billy Drummond  to perform five post-bop originals, two jazz classics, and one standard. In addition to proving himself an under-recognized talent on his chosen instrument, Wendholt displays promise as a composer, having written some challenging material for this recording. The title track begins as a ballad with the melody played by Braden on flute and Wendholt on muted trumpet that, after a brief drum interlude, begins a new melody played by trumpet and tenor sax over a driving Afro-Latin groove. 

"Hour of the Pearl" opens with a piano intro that segues into a relaxed swinger, while "Kaleidoscope" is a burning blues with a lightning-quick melody. Other favorites include a swinging version of Sam Rivers' "Beatrice" that features Wendholt's muted trumpet and a up-tempo, pianoless version of the standard "Just in Time." Drummond's drumset versatility stands out throughout this recording, showing why he is one of the busiest musicians on the jazz scene. Through the Shadows is a positive step in the development of this fine musician. ~ Greg Turner https://www.allmusic.com/album/through-the-shadows-mw0000613204

Personnel:  Trumpet – Scott Wendholt;  Bass – Ira Coleman;  Drums – Billy Drummond; Piano – Bruce Barth;  Tenor Saxophone, Flute – Don Braden

Through the Shadows

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Don Braden - Earth Wind and Wonder

Styles: Flute and Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2018
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 65:13
Size: 163,2 MB
Art: Front

(6:30)  1. Fantasy
(6:59)  2. Can't Hide Love
(6:23)  3. Visions
(5:45)  4. Getaway
(6:38)  5. I Can't Help It
(7:35)  6. The Elements (Earth Air Fire Water)
(6:36)  7. After the Love Has Gone
(7:06)  8. Don't You Worry 'Bout a Thing
(5:18)  9. The Wonder of You
(6:18) 10. Higher Ground

Don Braden is an impressive tenor saxophonist whose style pushes at the boundaries of hard bop while staying a solid part of the tradition. He was raised in Louisville, KY, and began on tenor when he was 13; within two years, he was playing professionally. He played in the McDonald's All-American High School Jazz Band and, although he studied engineering at Harvard (1981-1984), Braden also played in the Harvard jazz band. In 1984, Braden moved to New York, working with the Harper Brothers, Dr. Lonnie Smith, and Betty Carter (with whom he made his recording debut). He toured with Wynton Marsalis (as Branford Marsalis' first replacement) during 1986-1987 and since then has played in many settings, including with Roy Haynes, Tony Williams, Freddie Hubbard, J.J. Johnson, Tom Harrell, Art Farmer, and the Mingus Big Band. As a leader, Braden has recorded for Criss Cross, Landmark, Epicure, and RCA. ~ Scott Yanow https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/earth-wind-and-wonder/1380801939

Personnel:  Don Braden - tenor sax, flute and alto flute;  Brandon McCune, Art Hirahara - piano;  Joris Teepe, Kenny Davis - bass;  Cecil Brooks III, Jeremy Warren - drums;  Kahlil Kwame Bell - percussion

Earth Wind and Wonder

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Melvin Rhyne - The Legend

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 61:45
Size: 141.4 MB
Styles: Bop, B3 Organ jazz
Year: 1992
Art: Front

[ 6:47] 1. Licks A-Plenty
[ 9:46] 2. Serenata
[ 5:54] 3. Stompin' At The Savoy
[ 5:34] 4. The Trick Bag
[ 8:30] 5. Old Folks
[ 6:52] 6. Next Time You See Me
[ 5:38] 7. Groovin' High
[12:42] 8. Blues For Wes

Peter Bernstein - Guitar; Don Braden - Tenor sax; Brian Lynch - Trumpet; Melvin Rhyne - Organ; Kenny Washington - Drums.

Other than an obscure date for Jazzland in 1960, this CD was organist Melvin Rhyne's debut as a leader. Famous for his association with Wes Montgomery but in obscurity ever since in Milwaukee, Rhyne gradually emerged during the late '80s and was found to still be in prime form. Joined by guitarist Peter Bernstein and drummer Kenny Washington, Rhyne had the rare opportunity of being the center of attention on this set, which includes a variety of standards (such as "Groovin' High," "Old Folks" and "Stompin' at the Savoy") plus Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis' "Licks A-Plenty" and Montgomery's "The Trick Bag." The easily recommended CD concludes with a lengthy "Blues for Wes," which finds trumpeter Brian Lynch and tenor saxophonist Don Braden making the group a quintet. ~Scott Yanow

The Legend mc
The Legend zippy

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Don Braden - Brighter Days

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2001
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 60:18
Size: 138,3 MB
Art: Front

(6:12)  1. She's On Her Way (Dedicated To
(5:58)  2. I Hear A Rhapsody
(7:44)  3. Sweet T (Dedicated To Stanley
(7:34)  4. Invitation
(3:36)  5. Underground Groove
(5:27)  6. Not Yet (Dedicated To Grover W
(7:00)  7. My Favorite Things
(6:07)  8. Montclair
(4:11)  9. Prelude To A Kiss
(6:28) 10. Brighter Days

Don Braden has long been a top-notch hard bop tenor saxophonist. For this quartet date with pianist Xavier Davis, bassist Dwayne Burno, and drummer Cecil Brooks III, the arrangements by Braden and the choice of songs greatly uplift the program. There are many high points, including the opening ballad "She's on Her Way," tributes to Stanley Turrentine ("Sweet T") and Grover Washington Jr. ("Not Yet"), a driving "Invitation," a duet with drummer Brooks ("Underground Groove"), and the swinging Cecil Brooks original "Montclair." Everything works! This is one of Don Braden's finest recordings so far, a well-conceived and very successful project. ~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/album/brighter-days-mw0000006448

Personnel :  Don Braden (tenor saxophone); Xavier Davis (piano); Dwayne Burno (bass); Cecil Brooks III (drums).

Brighter Days

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Cecil Brooks III - For Those Who Love to Groove

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
Year: 1999
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 67:10
Size: 154,7 MB
Art: Front

(4:06)  1. Get Lonely
(5:43)  2. Mother And Child
(4:53)  3. Stay One Step Ahead
(4:03)  4. Browne James
(3:31)  5. Sweet Summer Breeze
(5:06)  6. Can We Talk
(7:11)  7. Lakumbe's Theme
(6:06)  8. Adreena
(4:32)  9. Swamp Run
(4:19) 10. Yvette
(6:35) 11. Hill District
(2:32) 12. Body And Soul
(2:20) 13. I Gan't Get Started
(2:53) 14. Tenderly
(3:14) 15. Sanj's Smoke Shop

On drummer Cecil Brooks III's Savant debut he is joined by tenor saxophonist Don Braden, alto saxophonist Bruce Williams, trumpeter Riley Mullins, and organist Radam Schwartz to perform ten originals by the group members, two pop songs, and a ballad medley. While Brooks is a modern hard bop drummmer in the tradition of Art Blakey, he chooses to stay in the background for most of this recording, while Schwartz plays strong basslines that are essential to creating the groove that is this recording's focus. Favorites include the soulful finger poppin' grooves of "I Get Lonely," a pop hit for Janet Jackson; "Can We Talk," a pop hit for Tevin Campbell; the exotic grooves of "Browne James" and "Lakumbe's Theme"; and the up-tempo burning grooves of "Swamp Run" and "Hill District." This is different from the bop, blues, and ballads that most organ-based groups play, which makes it an enjoyable listening experience. ~ Greg Turner https://www.allmusic.com/album/for-those-who-love-to-groove-mw0000251490

Personnel: Cecil Brooks III (drums); Bruce Williams (alto saxophone); Don Braden (tenor saxophone); Riley Mullins (trumpet); Radam Schwartz (organ)

For Those Who Love to Groove

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Don Braden - Contemporary Standards Ensemble

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 56:05
Size: 128.4 MB
Styles: Saxophone jazz
Year: 2000
Art: Front

[6:38] 1. Kid Charlemagne
[6:32] 2. The Closer I Get To You
[6:58] 3. The Vail Jumpers
[7:41] 4. Dance Of The One
[6:01] 5. Overjoyed
[8:10] 6. Feel Like Making Love
[7:06] 7. Nandhi
[6:56] 8. Arise

Saxophonist Don Braden leads a sextet on this unusual outing. Together with alto saxophonist Vincent Herring, trumpeter Terell Stafford, pianist George Colligan, bassist Richie Goods, and drummer Ralph Peterson, Braden reinterprets contemporary standards -- i.e., pop songs -- in a jazz vein, much like Herbie Hancock did on his 1995 album The New Standard. Four of the tracks, however, are band originals, three by Braden, one by Goods. The reworked pop material includes "The Closer I Get to You" by Donny Hathaway, "Feel Like Making Love" by Roberta Flack, "Overjoyed" by Stevie Wonder, and, most ambitiously, "Kid Charlemagne" by Steely Dan, which works quite well as a swinging improv vehicle. There's a sugary aspect to the Hathaway song, and yet Braden's three-horn harmonies enhance the undeniably beautiful melody. And "Feel Like Making Love" is played at a slow, bluesy tempo, giving it a bawdy flavor. Braden's pieces are strong, particularly the Joe Henderson-esque "Dance of the One"; Richie Goods' lilting "Nandhi" features nice flugelhorn work from Stafford. Colligan's solos are unfailingly on target. These players are strong leaders in their own right, so the level of musicianship is very high. ~David R. Adler

Contemporary Standards Ensemble

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Don Braden - The Voice of the Saxophone

Styles: Flute And Saxophone Jazz
Year: 1997
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 65:25
Size: 150,2 MB
Art: Front

(7:41)  1. Soul Station
(5:43)  2. Speak No Evil
(6:36)  3. Winelight
(6:43)  4. After the Rain
(6:24)  5. The Dust Kicker
(6:36)  6. Monk's Hat
(6:24)  7. Cozy
(6:40)  8. The Face I Love
(6:36)  9. Point of Many Returns
(5:59) 10. The Voice of the Saxophone

Don Braden's The Voice of the Saxophone is, for the most part, impressive. His quartet arrangements of "After the Rain" and the title track should turn heads. His big-toned tenor sax carries the octet in covers of hard bop gems like "Soul Station" and "Speak No Evil." He's also making headway as a composer, especially on "Cozy," which features both him and Vincent Herring on flutes. Less successful is the pseudo-Monk TV theme from The Cosby Show, which is called "Monk's Hat." ~ Ken Dryden https://www.allmusic.com/album/the-voice-of-the-saxophone-mw0000025404

Personnel: Don Braden (flute, tenor saxophone); Vincent Herring (flute, alto saxophone); Hamiet Bluiett (clarinet, contrabass clarinet, baritone saxophone); Randy Brecker (trumpet, flugelhorn); Frank Lacy (trombone); Darrell Grant (piano); Dwayne Burno (acoustic bass); Cecil Brooks III (drums).

The Voice of the Saxophone

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Don Braden - The New Hang

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2004
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 64:43
Size: 148,2 MB
Art: Front

(7:24)  1. Through The Fire
(5:57)  2. Without A Song
(7:00)  3. When I Fall In Love
(6:32)  4. The Traveler
(8:13)  5. No Complaints
(5:39)  6. Wish List
(7:02)  7. Release
(4:39)  8. Mother's Wish
(4:36)  9. Code Blue
(7:35) 10. The New Hang

The ever youthful Don Braden has released his 12th recording as a leader, The New Hang , a splendid collection which showcases not only his prowess as one of jazz' tenor ambassadors but the prowess of a stellar supporting cast. Things start off with a surprisingly jaunty and upbeat version of Chaka Khan's "Through the Fire." Braden swings during his solo, moving in and around the melody as drummer Cecil Brooks III thrashes behind him. Organist Kyle Koehler follows and lays down the law with his gritty solo turn. The standard "Without A Song" is played at a joyful up-tempo with everyone burning through their solos, especially Koehler. This is followed by another standard, "When I Fall In Love," a lovely duet between Braden and Koehler which features textures from blues and gospel.  "The Traveler" is another burner where Braden blows like crazy as the rhythm section drives him. Trombonist Conrad Herwig's fiery solo takes over to add spice to the already simmering gumbo. The tune shifts with the bass line defining the funk groove which lies dormant. "Wish List" finds Braden playing in an appropriately wistful tone. The song features another great Koehler solo and excellent drumming by Brooks. The band shifts into an R&B mode with "Release." Braden springs fountains of invention from his horn, triumphantly seizing the upper register like a prize.  Braden shifts tempo on "Mother's Wish," which he plays with a clear, strong, confident tone. "Code Blue" is another excellent horn interplay and even more dynamic drumming by Brooks. The disc ends with the title track, a standard blues with more hot tenor from the leader and more great down-in-the-trenches work by Koehler. From straight-ahead jazz to gospel, up-tempo to ballads, there's no musical style to which Braden can't apply his technical mastery and boundless imagination. Herwig, Koehler and Brooks complete the stellar ensemble work, making The New Hang a thoroughly enjoyable listen. ~ Terrell Kent Holmes https://www.allaboutjazz.com/the-new-hang-don-braden-review-by-terrell-kent-holmes.php

Personnel:  Don Braden: tenor sax;  Conrad Herwig: trombone;  Kyle Koehler: organ;  Cecil Brooks III: drums.

The New Hang

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Valery Ponomarev - Beyond The Obvious

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 2006
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 65:21
Size: 150,1 MB
Art: Front

( 6:06)  1. You Dig, I Hear You, You Know What I Mean, etc.
( 6:16)  2. Close Your Eyes
( 9:43)  3. Party Time
( 6:53)  4. The Blessing
( 9:09)  5. From Cat To Nat
(15:05)  6. Sale On Love
( 7:11)  7. Chelsea Bridge
( 4:54)  8. Gina's Cooking

Beyond The Obvious is ex-Jazz Messenger Valery Ponomarev's seventh CD as a leader for Reservoir. His Means of Identification, recorded in 1985, was the label's debut release. Beyond The Obvious stands apart from the six prior (all quintet) sessions in terms of its instrumental format. It's out at a time when the Russian-born trumpeter is in the news for a troubling incident. In mid September, Ponomarev reportedly had his arm broken by Charles DeGaulle Airport security after refusing to relinquish his trumpet. He was asked to check his trumpet at the gate, despite the fact that it was already properly tagged as carry-on baggage. Beyond the Obvious features a piano-less quartet, balancing two horns (Ponomarev's trumpet and Don Braden's tenor sax) with the bass and drums of Martin Zenker and Jerome Jennings, respectively. Jennings, who has toured and studied with Ponomarev, is a graduate student at New York's Juilliard School of Music. Suffice to say that he plays with empathy and talent belying his years.  

This is a half-and-half mix of jazz standards and savory originals, one of which ("Love On Sale ) is an extended Ponomarev composition loosely based on Cole Porter's Tin Pan Alley chestnut "Love For Sale. The opening "You Dig, whose odd conversational patter title is actually the melody, was recorded by Ponomarev and the rhythm section while Braden sat in traffic on the way to the studio. It's a clever full-throttle blues.  Even on the standards including "Close Your Eyes and "Chelsea Bridge Ponomarev is the clever rearranger, enabling the quartet to mine interesting new facets, hence the project title. There's an intensity and beauty to their interpretation of Ornette's classic "The Blessing, from the late '50s. "Chelsea Bridge features three primary solo voices trumpet, tenor and bass and is a gem. Check out the subtleties and rhythmic variations that the ensemble adds to Lee Morgan's "Party Time, a classic blues from one of the leader's trumpet heroes. Braden and Ponomarev's horn lines artfully complement each other both in tandem and as foils throughout this session. It's clear that the leader, so thoroughly grounded in bebop, is extending that exciting tradition. ~ Ken Frankling https://www.allaboutjazz.com/beyond-the-obvious-valery-ponomarev-reservoir-music-review-by-ken-franckling.php

Personnel: Valery Ponomarev: trumpet; Don Braden: tenor saxophone; Martin Zenker: bass; Jerome Jennings: drums.

Beyond The Obvious

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Andy LaVerne Quartet - Stan Getz In Chappaqua

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 1997
File: MP3@256K/s
Time: 59:29
Size: 109,2 MB
Art: Front

(5:30)  1. Lester Left Town
(7:55)  2. Dear Old Stockholm
(5:57)  3. Early Autumn
(5:54)  4. Eiderdown
(4:18)  5. Blue Serge
(7:36)  6. Windows
(5:48)  7. Desafinado / O Grande Amor / The Girl From Ipanema
(6:14)  8. 500 Miles High
(6:38)  9. Stan's Blues
(3:33) 10. Stan Getz in Chappaqua

Andy LaVerne was Stan Getz's pianist from 1977 to 1981; this tribute CD is primarily a standard quartet covering some of the late tenor giant's favorite songs, although LaVerne never recorded any of them with him. Don Braden's approach to the tenor is not as powerful or lush as Getz but he is more than adequate. Highlights include the sensuous "Early Autumn," the snappy "Eiderdown" and a strolling version of Getz's hit "Dear Old Stockholm." Especially worth hearing is the LaVerne-Braden duet of the title track, a retitled remake of the an original piece "Chappaqua" that he recorded as a member of the Getz Quartet. Bassist Steve LaSpina, drummer Danny Gottlieb and guitarist Dave Stryker (who performs only on the Jobim bossa nova medley) round out the excellent rhythm section. Andy LaVerne's output in the 1990s has been consistently excellent, yet he still hasn't drawn the critical attention he deserves; this CD out to help put him on the map. ~ Ken Dryden http://www.allmusic.com/album/stan-getz-in-chappaqua-mw0000049605

Personnel: Andy LaVerne (piano, keyboards); Dave Stryker (guitar); Don Braden (tenor saxophone); Danny Gottlieb (drums).

Stan Getz In Chappaqua

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Alexis Cole - Someday My Prince Will Come

Styles: Vocal Jazz
Year: 2010
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 53:18
Size: 122,7 MB
Art: Front

(4:14)  1. For Now For Always
(2:41)  2. Home Is Where The Heart Is
(4:00)  3. If I Never Knew You
(3:50)  4. La La Lu
(4:47)  5. Let Me Be Good To You
(5:17)  6. Love Me
(3:03)  7. Once Upon a Dream
(5:35)  8. Remember When
(4:30)  9. So This Is Love
(5:04) 10. Someday My Prince Will Come
(5:37) 11. Second Star To The Right
(4:37) 12. When You Wish Upon a Star

Music from Disney films and cartoons has often drifted into jazz thanks to its rich harmonies and evergreen quality, but it is not every day that a vocalist makes an entire CD with personal renditions of these popular tunes. Such is the case of Alexis Cole's Someday My Prince Will Come, which features a collection of Disney tunes reread into a jazz format. Cole cleverly did not choose songs that might be too obvious, focusing mostly on more obscure numbers such as the opener, the beautiful "For Now For Always" (from The Parent Trap) and "Once Upon A Dream" (from Cinderella). Some tunes lend themselves naturally to a jazz format such as "Let Me Be Good To You," a bluesy tune that is used to showcase pianist Fred Hersch and bassist Steve LaSpina, who both contribute fluent solos, while Cole sings with a '50s Ella Fitzgerald-like style. The Lady And The Tramp's "La La Lu" appears as a soft ballad enhanced by Don Braden's fluid flute solo.

Another highlight is "If I Never Knew You," the most recently composed tune on the disc, which originally appeared on the end credits for Pocahontas. Cole's voice is inspired, and Gregoire Maret contributes a Toots Thielemans like harmonic response to her singing that enhance the tune's beauty. Maret appears again on the title track, arguably the most memorable tune from Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs. His solo is followed by yet another great contribution from Hersch. 

La Spina and drummer Matt Wilson, who provides great backup, responding to the pianist's accents with gusto. Someday My Prince Will Come is a great reminder of the timelessness of these songs and also a testament to Cole's talent. The New York-born vocalist makes each song her own. The only sad note is the fact that the disc was recorded before the soundtrack to The Princess and The Frog had been released. But maybe that could be included in a second volume along with tunes from The Aristocats. ~ Ernest Barteldes  http://www.allaboutjazz.com/someday-my-prince-will-come-alexis-cole-venus-records-review-by-ernest-barteldes.php

Personnel: Alexis Cole: vocal;  Fred Hersch: piano;  Steve LaSpina: bass;  Matt Wilson: drums;  Gregoire Maret: harmonica;  Don Braden: tenor, soprano, flute.

My Prince Will Come

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