Jack Wilkins - Until It's Time

Styles: Guitar Jazz
Year: 2009
Time: 69:35
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 159,4 MB
Art: Front

(6:02) 1. Arthur's Theme
(5:50) 2. Show Me
(6:02) 3. Blossom
(4:58) 4. Walk Don't Run
(6:30) 5. These Foolish Things
(4:32) 6. Lauro's Waltz
(7:23) 7. Two for the Road
(5:30) 8. Fur Elise
(5:04) 9. Tico-Tico
(5:35) 10. Airegin
(4:24) 11. Until It's Time for You to Go
(7:39) 12. Blossom (extended version)

A guitarist with the kind of dexterity that Jack Wilkins shares is bound to find success in many fields, especially when based in New York, where he's surrounded by great musicians all the time. As Until It's Time features piano, bass and drums in support of Wilkins' sensual fret board articulation, much of the album relies on familiar songs and a conservative love affair with melody.

Wilkins works in unison with piano, stretches out frequently, and turns his musical partners loose often in order to invite adventures of their own. Most of the session features up-tempo romps where rhythm grabs a collar-full of surprise and propels the unit forcefully. Others, such as "These Foolish Things," slow the mood down considerably in order to allow soulful ballad feelings their share of the moment.

A blazing-fast arrangement of "Tico Tico" finds Wilkins burning up the fret board with fingers that accelerate like a machine gun. While his articulation rides fast in sixth gear, the guitarist delivers a crystal attack where every note finds clarity. Similarly, "Airegin" and "Show Me" allow the ensemble to romp hard and fast with a characteristic bop attack.

Wilkins, 65, has remained an integral part of the New York jazz scene for close to 50 years. From Buddy Rich's small ensembles of the 1970s to a modern-day NEA grant and a striking relationship with the Smithsonian Institution, he's covered all the jazz bases and continues to create great jazz. By Jim Santella
https://www.allaboutjazz.com/until-it-jack-wilkins-maxjazz-review-by-jim-santella

Personnel: Jack Wilkins: amplified guitar; Jon Cowherd: piano, piano & organ (3, 12), organ (11); Steve LaSpina: double bass; Mark Ferber: drums; Samuel Torres: percussion (1); Jeff Barone: acoustic guitar (3, 12).

Until It's Time

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Larry Schneider - Mohawk

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 1994
File: MP3@256K/s
Time: 61:11
Size: 112,4 MB
Art: Front

( 4:43)  1. Mohawk
( 6:05)  2. Moose The Mooche
( 4:48)  3. She Rote
(10:39)  4. Yardbird Suite
( 2:59)  5. Donna Lee
( 7:51)  6. Anthropology
( 9:35)  7. Scrapple From The Apple
( 5:05)  8. Steeplechase
( 9:24)  9. Confirmation

Larry Schneider on this latest recording plays alto sax instead of tenor sax which is his instrument. And when a jazz saxophone player picks up alto, there is one thing in his mind: Charlie Parker. “Larry Schneider Plays Charlie Parker” is what this CD is all about. A formidable task superbly executed.

Personnel:  Alto Saxophone – Larry Schneider;  Bass – Steve LaSpina;  Drums – Anton Fig;  Piano – Andy LaVerne

Mohawk

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Benny Carter - Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [eight-album series]

"Benny Carter: The Princeton Concerts" is an eight-album series recorded at Carter’s request and until now, unissued. Although he received many distinguished awards (among the National Medal of the Arts, multiple Grammys, and the Kennedy Center Award), it was the doctorate bestowed by Princeton University in 1974 that he especially treasured. Invited and encouraged by Professor Morroe Berger, Carter not only grew close to the school as he led many classes and seminars, but also to the Berger family. Out of that relationship came the monumental biography and cultural history Benny Carter: A Life In American Music (written by Berger, his son Ed, and James Patrick) and the music presented here, recorded by Berger’s son, Ken.

Across these eight albums, Carter leads small groups and one all-star big band comprised of some of the greatest jazz musicians of all time. The intensity and interaction with a live audience always brought out the best in Carter and each concert has its own unique moments of inspired improvisation. He effortlessly reveals his mastery of the alto saxophone, the elegance of compositions, and his graciousness as a bandleader in giving generous space to his compatriots.

All, save two, were recorded at Princeton between 1972 and 1983. There is a brilliant 1978 evening captured in Buffalo that features one of the only recordings of the legendary pianist Al Tinney, whose role in the creation of bebop in the early 1940s has long been heralded by historians, but who went largely unrecorded during his long career. The collection set ends chronologically with music from the 90-year-old Carter, playing with astounding freshness and creativity, backed by pianist Chris Neville and bassist Steve LaSpina, who were in Carter’s last band.

Mrs. Hilma Carter has made a gift of this music to the National Jazz Museum in Harlem to support their mission of preserving, promoting, and presenting jazz. It is her wish that the music be made available free of charge, and the museum is placing it across the world’s most popular streaming services. In addition, visitors are always welcome (by appointment) to hear the music at the museum.

https://jmih.org/collections/benny-carter-the-princeton-concerts/

 

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Benny Carter - Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [Vol.1 April 19, 1973 Live at Princeton]

Styles: Jazz

Year: 2022
Time: 87:00
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 199,9 MB
Art: Front

(2:17) 1. Introduction (Live At Princeton, April, 1973)
(8:07) 2. A Night In Tunisia (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(8:28) 3. Undecided (Live At Princeton, April, 1973)
(8:36) 4. Robbins Nest (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(8:25) 5. The Shadow Of Your Smile (Live At Princeton, April, 1973)
(6:56) 6. Honeysuckle Rose (Live At Princeton, April, 1973)
(8:29) 7. In A Mellotone (Live At Princeton, April, 1973)
(6:53) 8. A Day In The Life Of A Fool (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(8:31) 9. All The Things You Are (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(9:25) 10. One Good Blues (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(4:41) 11. Sweet Georgia Brown (Live At Princeton, April,1973)
(6:07) 12. How High The Moon (Live At Princeton, 1973)

Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [Vol.1 April 19, 1973 Live at Princeton]

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Benny Carter - Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [Vol. 2 October 22, 1973 Live at Princeton]

Styles: Jazz
Year: 2022
Time: 137:20
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 315,5 MB
Art: Front

(03:02) 1. Introduction (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(10:35) 2. Undecided (Live At Princeton, October 1973)
(11:28) 3. The Shadow Of Your Smile (Live At Princeton, October 1973)
(11:51) 4. Satin Doll (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(08:40) 5. When Lights Are Low (Live At Princeton, October 1973)
(02:53) 6. Nuages (Live At Princeton, 1973) (Feat. Bucky Pizzarelli)
(02:43) 7. What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life (Live At Princeton, 1973) (Feat. Bucky Pizzarelli)
(02:26) 8. I'm Coming Virginia (Live At Princeton, 1973) (Feat. Bucky Pizzarelli)
(06:08) 9. She's Funny That Way (Live At Princeton, 1973) (Feat. Grady Tate)
(05:22) 10. Body And Soul (Live At Princeton, 1973) (Feat. Grady Tate)
(10:41) 11. Blues Medley: Blues / Blue Monk / My Gal (Live At Princeton, 1973) (Feat. Clark Terry)
(14:09) 12. Take The "A" Train (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(10:20) 13. Perdido (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(07:47) 14. Evening Star (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(07:30) 15. Doozy (Live At Princeton, October 1973)
(03:54) 16. Mumbles (Live At Princeton, 1973) (Feat. Clark Terry)
(09:26) 17. In A Mellotone (Live At Princeton, October 1973)
(08:16) 18. Sweet Georgia Brown (Live At Princeton, October 1973)

Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [Vol. 2 October 22, 1973 Live at Princeton]

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Benny Carter - Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [Vol. 3 December 3, 1973 Live at Princeton]

Styles: Jazz
Year: 2022
Time: 132:22
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 303,9 MB
Art: Front

(10:06) 1. Doozy (Live At Princeton, December 1973)
(03:11) 2. Introduction (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(03:50) 3. When Lights Are Low (Live At Princeton, December 1973)
(02:54) 4. You Are (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(06:11) 5. Souvenir (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(12:51) 6. Honeysuckle Rose (Live At Princeton, December 1973)
(18:19) 7. Blues For Beginners (Live At Princeton, 1973) (Feat. Hale Smith)
(13:14) 8. Coalition (Live At Princeton, 1973) (Feat. Ray Barretto)
(09:15) 9. I Can't Get Started (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(12:06) 10. Cotton Tail (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(04:14) 11. A Kiss From You (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(09:51) 12. A Walkin' Thing (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(04:18) 13. Sleep (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(12:40) 14. Ballad Medley: These Foolish Things/ A Day In The Life Of A Fool / St. Louis Blues / The Nearness Of You (Live At Princeton, 1973)
(09:17) 15. Juke Box (Live At Princeton, 1973)

Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [Vol. 3 December 3, 1973 Live at Princeton]

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Benny Carter - Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [Vol. 4 March 18, 1977 Live at Princeton]

Styles: Jazz
Year: 2022
Time: 157:03
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 360,8 MB
Art: Front

(04:06) 1. Introduction (Live At Princeton, 1977)
(09:42) 2. Undecided (Live At Princeton, 1977)
(10:19) 3. Easy Money (Live At Princeton, 1977)
(08:01) 4. Here's That Rainy Day (Live At Princeton, 1977)
(10:49) 5. South Side Samba (Live At Princeton, 1977)
(10:41) 6. Green Wine (Live At Princeton, 1977)
(05:23) 7. A Child Is Born (Live At Princeton, 1977) (Feat. Joe Newman)
(09:48) 8. Yesterdays (Live At Princeton, 1977)
(09:27) 9. Satin Doll (Live At Princeton, 1977)
(06:52) 10. St.thomas (Live At Princeton, 1977)
(07:45) 11. Django Medley: Nuages / Tears (Live At Princeton, 1977) (Feat. Bucky Pizzarelli)
(03:47) 12. Send In The Clowns (Live At Princeton, 1977) (Feat. Bucky Pizzarelli)
(04:20) 13. Ballad Medley: I'll Be Around / I Concentrate On You (Live At Princeton, 1977) (Feat. Bucky Pizzarelli)
(07:07) 14. Evening Star (Live At Princeton, 1977)
(09:10) 15. On Green Dolphin Street (Live At Princeton, 1977)
(06:45) 16. Summertime (Live At Princeton, 1977) (Feat. Richard Davis)
(04:17) 17. When You're Smiling (Live At Princeton, 1977) (Feat. Joe Newman)
(10:59) 18. The Courtship (Live At Princeton, 1977)
(08:26) 19. Perdido (Live At Princeton, 1977)
(09:08) 20. In A Mellotone (Live At Princeton, 1977)

Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [Vol. 4 March 18, 1977 Live at Princeton]

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Benny Carter - Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [Vol. 5 October 12, 1979 Live at Princeton]

Styles: Jazz
Year: 2022
Time: 94:59
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 218,2 MB
Art: Front

(08:19) 1. Ain't Misbehavin' (Live At Princeton, 1979)
(11:41) 2. Straight, No Chaser (Live At Princeton, 1979)
(07:07) 3. Gee, Baby, Ain't I Good To You (Live At Princeton, 1979)
(09:28) 4. Broadway (Live At Princeton, 1979)
(04:50) 5. This Is Always (Live At Princeton, 1979) (Feat. Joe Kennedy)
(00:42) 6. Introduction (Live At Princeton, 1979)
(11:38) 7. Perdido (Live At Princeton, 1979)
(11:32) 8. On Green Dolphin Street (Live At Princeton, 1979)
(08:51) 9. My Old Flame (Live At Princeton, 1979) (Feat. Stanley Jordan)
(03:25) 10. Now's The Time (Live At Princeton, 1979) (Feat. Stanley Jordan)
(10:20) 11. Caravan (Live At Princeton, 1979)
(07:00) 12. Blues (Live At Princeton, 1979)

Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [Vol. 5 October 12, 1979 Live at Princeton]

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Benny Carter - Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [Vol. 6 May 21, 1982 Live at Princeton]

Styles: Jazz
Year: 2022
Time: 137:53
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 316,7 MB
Art: Front

(12:14) 1. Opening Remarks (Live At Princeton, 1982)
(01:23) 2. Introduction (Live At Princeton, 1982)
(09:41) 3. Easy Money (Live At Princeton, 1982)
(10:27) 4. Autumn Leaves (Live At Princeton, 1982)
(09:50) 5. The Courtship (Live At Princeton, 1982)
(08:10) 6. Love For Sale (Live At Princeton, 1982) (Feat. Derek Smith)
(10:30) 7. In A Mellotone (Live At Princeton, 1982)
(07:11) 8. Ain't Misbehavin' (Live At Princeton, 1982) (Feat. Harry "Sweets" Edison)
(06:16) 9. Basically The Blues (Live At Princeton, 1982) (Feat. George Duvivier)
(10:51) 10. Southside Samba (Live At Princeton, 1982)
(08:47) 11. Undecided (Live At Princeton, 1982)
(06:46) 12. Souvenir (Live At Princeton, 1982)
(01:33) 13. Introduction 2 (Live At Princeton, 1982)
(05:09) 14. Misty (Live At Princeton, 1982) (Feat. Stanley Jordan)
(12:08) 15. Perdido (Live At Princeton, 1982)
(09:44) 16. Cotton Tail (Live At Princeton, 1982)
(07:03) 17. Blues (Live At Princeton, 1982)

Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [Vol. 6 May 21, 1982 Live at Princeton]

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Benny Carter - Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [Vol 7. September 13, 1997 Live at Princeton]

Styles: Jazz
Year: 2022
Time: 55:05
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 126,6 MB
Art: Front

(2:01) 1. Introduction (Live At Princeton, 1997)
(6:28) 2. Just Friends (Live At Princeton, 1997)
(6:40) 3. My One And Only Love (Live At Princeton, 1997) (Feat. Steve Laspina)
(7:49) 4. Another Time, Another Place (Live At Princeton, 1997)
(9:58) 5. Lover Man (Live At Princeton, 1997)
(4:55) 6. You, Only You (Live At Princeton, 1997) (Feat. Chris Neville)
(8:00) 7. What Is This Thing Called Love (Live At Princeton, 1997)
(9:09) 8. Perdido (Live At Princeton, 1997)

Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [Vol 7. September 13, 1997 Live at Princeton]

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Benny Carter - Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [Vol. 8 October 28, 1978 Live in Buffalo]

Styles: Jazz
Year: 2022
Time: 139:56
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 321,5 MB
Art: Front

(05:41) 1. There Will Never Be Another You (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. Al Tinney)
(07:53) 2. In A Mellotone (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. Al Tinney)
(05:07) 3. What's New (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. Al Tinney)
(07:43) 4. On Green Dolphin Street (Live In Buffalo 1978) (Feat. Al Tinney)
(06:07) 5. 12 Bar Blues (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. Al Tinney)
(08:25) 6. Undecided (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. Al Tinney)
(04:56) 7. Take The "A" Train (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. Al Tinney)
(05:11) 8. When Lights Are Low (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. University Of Buffalo Jazz Ensemble)
(04:29) 9. A Walkin' Thing (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. University Of Buffalo Jazz Ensemble)
(10:25) 10. Blues For Beginners (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. University Of Buffalo Jazz Ensemble)
(05:15) 11. I Can't Get Started (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. University Of Buffalo Jazz Ensemble)
(07:59) 12. Honeysuckle Rose (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. University Of Buffalo Jazz Ensemble)
(09:06) 13. In A Mellotone, Pt. 2 (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. Al Tinney)
(08:08) 14. On Green Dolphin Street, Pt. 2 (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. Al Tinney)
(09:17) 15. Lover Man (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. Al Tinney)
(09:05) 16. Perdido (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. Al Tinney)
(08:50) 17. Body And Soul (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. Al Tinney)
(07:58) 18. Cherokee (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. Al Tinney)
(08:11) 19. All The Things You Are (Live In Buffalo, 1978) (Feat. Al Tinney)

Princeton Concerts (And Beyond) [Vol. 8 October 28, 1978 Live in Buffalo]

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Andy Laverne - Severe Clear

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 1990
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 63:36
Size: 146,2 MB
Art: Front

(7:23) 1. Severe Clear
(8:39) 2. No Guts, No Glory
(9:10) 3. Plasma Pool
(6:13) 4. Fact or Fiction
(6:31) 5. Rick's Trick
(7:59) 6. Trajectory
(9:16) 7. Three Times Twice
(8:20) 8. Ethereal Spheres

Augmented by trumpeter Tim Hagans, this recording finds Laverne in top gear playing some of the most incredible chord voicings. Rick Margitza (ts) is also prominently featured.
By Paul Kohler https://www.allmusic.com/album/severe-clear-mw0000415916

Personnel: Andy LaVerne – piano; Tim Hagans – trumpet; Rick Margitza – tenor saxophone; Steve LaSpina – bass; Anton Fig – drums

Severe Clear

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Benny Carter - Benny Carter Songbook Vol II

Styles: Saxophone Jazz 
Year: 1997
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 76:04
Size: 174,4 MB
Art: Front

(3:26)  1. My Mind Is Still On You - Joe Williams
(5:10)  2. Echo Of My Dream - Dianna Krall
(6:00)  3. Rock Me To Sleep - Ruth Brown
(4:04)  4. Stop Me Before I Fall In Love Again - Billy Stritch
(8:33)  5. He Doesn't Need Me Now - Nancy Marano
(6:05)  6. Doozy - Jon Hendricks
(5:10)  7. Nevermore - Billy Stritch
(7:05)  8. Malibu - Lainie Kazan
(5:53)  9. Blue Moonlight - Marlena Shaw
(5:30) 10. Evening Star - Kenny Rankin
(4:46) 11. Slow Carousel - Nancy Marano
(4:05) 12. Whisper To One - Barbara Lea
(5:56) 13. I'm The Caring Kind - Weslia Whitfield
(4:16) 14. When Hilma Smiles

The 1997 release of this CD helped Benny Carter celebrate his 90th birthday, featuring 14 of his original ballads by a dozen guests, in addition to a warm tribute to his wife of many years, "When Hilma Smiles," sung by Carter himself in a friendly, unpretentious manner. His smooth alto sax hasn't lost anything over the decades, and the top-notch cornet of Warren Vaché is also a nice touch. 

The highlights among the guest vocalists' contributions include Nancy Marano's emotional version of "He Doesn't Need Me Now" and Wesla Whitfield's sassy take of "I'm the Caring Kind." ~ Ken Dryden https://www.allmusic.com/album/songbook-vol-2-mw0000028108

Personnel: Benny Carter (vocals, alto saxophone); Joe Williams, Weslia Whitfield, Ruth Brown, Billy Stritch, Nancy Marano, Jon Hendricks, Lainie Kazan, Marlena Shaw, Kenny Rankin, Barbara Lea, Diana Krall (vocals); Warren Vache (cornet); Chris Neville (piano); Steve LaSpina (bass); Sherman Ferguson, Roy McCurdy (drums)

Benny Carter Songbook Vol II

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Frank Kohl - Invisible Man

Styles: Guitar Jazz
Year: 2015
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 50:29
Size: 116,1 MB
Art: Front

(6:07) 1. Invisible Man
(5:13) 2. In Your Arms
(6:15) 3. Born Again
(6:21) 4. Falling Sky
(7:48) 5. My Funny Valentine
(5:29) 6. Round About
(4:44) 7. My One and Only Love
(8:28) 8. Alone Together

Guitarist Kohl's third release as a leader, 2015's Invisible Man, features the New York bassist Steve LaSpina, whom Kohl first heard perform with guitar master Jim Hall. The music is a tight east coast sound, with many originals by Kohl. Elegant in simplicity, eschewing the thicker layers of many jazz presentations, this recording is to the point and floats along nicely. Kohl says "May we all believe in ourselves and not be deterred by the obstacles we face, I dedicate my music to that invisible part in all of us."~ Opiniones editoriales https://www.amazon.com/Invisible-Man-Frank-Kohl-Quartet/dp/B00U0FJLO6

Personnel: Frank Kohl-Guitar; Steve LaSpina-Bass; Tom Kohl-Piano; Jon Doty-Drums

Invisible Man

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Frank Kohl - The Crossing

Styles: Guitar Jazz
Year: 2020
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 58:38
Size: 134,9 MB
Art: Front

(6:17) 1. The Crossing
(6:50) 2. O Grande Amour
(7:23) 3. The Masquerade Is Over
(5:06) 4. The Goodbye
(6:41) 5. Yesterday's
(9:17) 6. Middle of Nowhere
(6:11) 7. Sojourn
(5:28) 8. New Moon
(5:19) 9. Brigas Nuncas Mais

Guitarist Frank Kohl has consistently put forth meaningful and eminently well-conceived guitar releases. His latest album titled The Crossing presents a dual guitar and upright bass approach. Kohl from the Seattle Washington jazz scene has collaborated on several albums with bassist Steve LaSpina, the two are joined by guitarist John Stowell. The album is introspective and offers mature and seasoned performances by all. Kohl and Stowell have a unique bond with each guitarist being their own unique stylist, but both coming from the traditional Barney Kessel style of jazz guitar approach.

The Crossing is Kohl’s fifth leader album, filled with equity of original and comely standards the listener is treated to a trio that displays masterful collaboration, each taking on their role with panache and impeccable artistry. Kohl’s originals are filled with fresh ideas and composed with an inclination of the jazz guitar tradition.

His arrangements of tastefully chosen standards ring with promise atmospheric delight. For example, Antonio Carlos Jobim’s “O Grande Amour” is given a relaxed playthrough by the trio. LaSpina has a breezy bossa nova feel that both Kohl and Stowell embellish. Both have the rhythmic language of the bossa nova mastered in both their accompanying and single-note playing. It is interesting to hear how both guitarists approach the melody, Kohl plays the melody first, with Stowell performing it the last time. Each has their own unique way of bringing out the charm of the Jobim melody. Stowell solos first; his lines are carefully constructed around the harmony and maintains a flowing eight-note pattern. Kohl’s solo has a wide range of techniques and colors, from rhythmically repeated notes to chordal statements.

“Middle of Nowhere” is a Kohl original with a straight-eight feel provided by LaSpina. The melody is catchy and joyful. The two guitarists have outstanding interaction on this track. Both speak the same jazz language, and that gives them the ability to complement each other. Hearing these two guitarists perform is going to be a treat for all jazz guitar fans. Kohl once again proves his acumen for writing smartly constructed originals adorning them with equally styled arrangements of standards. At first, I was unsure of the two guitarists’ idea, but Kohl and Stowell prove they are both masters of collaboration, each contributing to the success of a dual guitar sound. LaSpina per usual is nothing less than magical. It is easy to hear why artists such as the Mel Lewis’s orchestra (1978–82), Stan Getz (1986-87), Jim Hall (from 1988), Andy LaVerne (from 1989), and Benny Carter (latter half of the 1990s) called upon his bass predilection. The Crossing is worth the journey. Partake and enjoy. https://5fingerreview.com/frank-kohl-the-crossing-review/

Personnel – Frank Kohl: guitar; John Stowell: guitar and nylon string guitar; Steve LaSpina: contrabass

The Crossing

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Steve LaSpina - A Change in the Weather

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
Year: 2020
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 66:24
Size: 153,0 MB
Art: Front

(5:48) 1. A Change in The Weather
(5:29) 2. Clouds
(7:29) 3. Always Believe
(6:25) 4. The Road Ahead
(7:24) 5. Life In The Cove
(5:41) 6. Moving Forward
(4:56) 7. No Way
(7:11) 8. Serenety
(6:21) 9. So Dance
(2:22) 10. Lost Lullaby
(7:12) 11. When It's Time Again

Bassist Steve LaSpina has been contributing his phenomenal musicianship both as performer and composer to this label since the late 90s. Since his debut album New Horizon SteepleChase has been LaSpina’s main outlet for his marvelous compositions. This is his 12th leader album, which explores some of his old tunes as well as new works, giving us a rare opportunity of experiencing how originalcompositions in jazz develop after decades of live performance on stage. https://www.jazzmessengers.com/en/83831/steve-laspina/a-change-in-the-weather

PERSONNEL: Steve LaSpina - bass ; Joel Frahm - tenor & soprano saxophone; Luis Perdomo - piano; Eric McPherson - drums

A Change in the Weather

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Steve LaSpina - When I'm Alone

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
Year: 1995
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 64:49
Size: 149,4 MB
Art: Front

(8:29) 1. Soaring
(7:23) 2. Young hearts
(5:03) 3. Last time out
(9:15) 4. When I'm alone
(9:32) 5. Explorations
(4:09) 6. My romance
(7:07) 7. Mirage
(7:38) 8. Anesthesia
(6:07) 9. Only trust your heart

Bassist Steve LaSpina had an opportunity to record seven of his originals (plus two standards) on the post-bop quintet date When I'm Alone. The music ranges greatly in emotions and is highlighted by the intense "Soaring," the waltz "Young Hearts" (with Billy Drewes sounding quite fluent on soprano), a solo bass feature on "My Romance," and a spooky "Anesthesia." Although guitarist Vic Juris and pianist Marc Copland have plenty of fine spots, the solo honors are usually taken by Drewes (particularly on soprano) and LaSpina. The individual melodies are not particularly memorable, but the moods are often haunting and the playing by the quintet is superlative. Overall When I'm Alone is a high-quality example of modern jazz.~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/album/when-im-alone-mw0000509244

Personnel: Bass – Steve LaSpina; Drums – Jeff Hirshfield; Guitar – Vic Juris; Piano – Marc Copland; Saxophone [Saxophones] – Billy Drewes

When I'm Alone

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Jim Hall - Jim Hall's Three

Styles: Guitar Jazz
Year: 2001
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 40:56
Size: 94,8 MB
Art: Front

(4:09)  1. Hide and Seek
(7:14)  2. Skylark
(4:37)  3. Bottlenose Blues
(5:06)  4. And I Do
(5:02)  5. All the Things You Are
(6:00)  6. Poor Butterfly
(8:46)  7. Three

The Jim Hall Trio, on this occasion, finds the guitarist joined by two veterans, bassist Steve LaSpina (a veteran of many of Hall's sessions) and drummer Akira Tana. Hall, as usual, solos in his unique economical style and leaves plenty of breathing room for the music. "Skylark" is initiated with a very sparse yet lyrical Hall solo before LaSpina and Tana eventually join him; he takes a similar approach to "Poor Butterfly," but he remains unaccompanied throughout this masterful performance. A time tested standard like "All the Things You Are" is given a facelift with the leader's roller coaster arrangement, which is full of sudden turns. But it is the leader's originals that demand the most attention; the lively "Bottlenose Blues" marks Hall's recording debut on a 12-string guitar, while the playful "Hide and Seek" darts in and out much like its title implies. "And I Do," which is based somewhat on the changes to "I Should Care," is yet another intricate chart, while "Three" is a captivating waltz. This is another gem from one of the deans of modern jazz guitar. ~ Ken Dryden https://www.allmusic.com/album/jim-halls-three-mw0000191927

Personnel: Guitar – Jim Hall; Bass – Steve LaSpina; Drums – Akira Tana

Jim Hall's Three

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Benny Carter - Songbook

Styles: Vocal, Saxophone Jazz
Year: 1996
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 77:37
Size: 179,4 MB
Art: Front

(5:30)  1. Only Trust Your Heart (Feat. Dianne Reeves)
(4:55)  2. All That Jazz (Feat. Carmen Bradford & Kenny Rankin)
(4:23)  3. I Was Wrong (Feat. Joe Williams)
(4:59)  4. Rain (Feat. Marlena Shaw)
(5:34)  5. Cow-Cow Boogie (Feat. Jon Hendricks)
(5:36)  6. Fresh Out Of Love (Feat. Diana Krall)
(4:57)  7. Speak Now (Feat. Billy Stritch)
(5:27)  8. A Kiss From You (Feat. Shirley Horn)
(4:17)  9. You Bring Out The Best In Me (Feat. Bobby Short)
(5:45) 10. My Kind Of Trouble Is You (Feat. Ruth Brown)
(4:06) 11. When Lights Are Low (Feat. Weslia Whitfield)
(6:35) 12. Lonely Woman (Feat. Nancy Marano)
(4:33) 13. Key Largo (Feat. Carmen Bradford)
(6:03) 14. We Were In Love (Feat. Dianne Reeves & Joe Williams)
(4:48) 15. I See You (Feat. Peggy Lee)

Due to his being such a talented altoist, arranger and occasional trumpeter for seven decades, it is often forgotten that Benny Carter wrote some worthy songs along the way. "When Lights Are Low" and "Blues in My Heart" are standards while "Only Trust Your Heart," "Key Largo" and the novelty hit "Cow-Cow Boogie" are close. For this unusual set, 14 different singers had opportunities to interpret one or two Carter compositions while joined by a fine quintet consisting of cornetist Warren Vache, pianist Chris Neville, bassist Steve LaSpina, drummer Sherman Ferguson and Carter himself (88 at the time!) on alto. The ambitious program includes five Carter songs that were receiving their world premiere; in addition Carter also wrote or co-wrote the lyrics to nine of the pieces. The singers all show respect for the melody and words with Jon Hendricks being playful on "Cow-Cow Boogie," Joe Williams quite touching on "I Was Wrong" and a weakened Peggy Lee making a memorable cameo on "I See You." The vocalists consistently seem quite inspired by the unique project. There are many short Carter and Warren Vache solos and, even with the emphasis on ballads, there is more variety than one might expect. The well-conceived tribute (which also has fine appearances by Dianne Reeves, Carmen Bradford, Kenny Rankin, Marlena Shaw, Diana Krall, Billy Stritch, Shirley Horn, Bobby Short, Ruth Brown, Weslia Whitfield and Nancy Marano). ~ Scott Yanow https://www.allmusic.com/album/songbook-mw0000180497

Personnel:  Benny Carter - alto saxophone;  Warren Vache - cornet;  Chris Neville, Gene DiNovi (#15) - piano;  Steve LaSpina, John Heard (#15) - bass;  Sherman Ferguson, Roy McCurdy (#2,6,13) - drums

Thank You Dave!

Songbook

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Steve Laspina - Eclipse

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
Year: 1994
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 64:13
Size: 147,3 MB
Art: Front

(7:20)  1. Inside out
(8:31)  2. New life
(6:17)  3. What?
(3:27)  4. Eclipse
(9:22)  5. Just so you know
(5:47)  6. And now I know
(8:58)  7. When I return
(7:01)  8. Just a phase
(7:26)  9. In search of Peace

Bassist Steve LaSpina (b. March 24, 1954 in Texas) is one of the leading figures of New York’s jazz scene today. Following his first leader album on SteepleChase, LaSpina surrounds himself with the same empathic sidemen as the previous album and continues to concentrate on his own compositions which “ focus on nuance and subtlety ” (JazzTimes).

Besides leading his own group presented here, Steve works regularly with Richie Beirach, Bob Brookmeyer, Tommy Flamagan, Dave Liebmann among others.

Personnel: Steve LaSpina (bass); Billy Drewes (tenor saxophone, alto saxophone, clarinet, bass clarinet);  Marc Copland (piano);  Jeff Hirshfield (drums).

Eclipse

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Louis Smith Sextet - Strike Up The Band

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 1991
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 69:44
Size: 159,9 MB
Art: Front

(10:31)  1. I Hear A Rhapsody (Frejus-Baker-Gasparre)
( 6:33)  2. It's All Right (Edwards)
( 8:15)  3. Don't Misunderstand (Parks)
( 7:38)  4. Edwaa (L. Smith)
(10:45)  5. Stablemates (B. Golson)
( 9:06)  6. Lover (Rodgers)
( 9:10)  7. Night and Day (C. Porter)
( 7:43)  8. Strike Up The Band (Gershwin)

This session, under the leadership of trumpeter Louis Smith, brings hard bop veterans together with a couple newcomers who were at the time helping to revive the style. This is the kind of recording session where one gets a taste of the fireworks that would result from a live jam session featuring the participants. Each soloist launches into the heart of the tune, cutting out the preliminaries and never reaching the heights more extended blowing would allow. Each song gives the frontline and pianist Kevin Hays a chance to have their say. The hornmen have complementary yet distinctive approaches. Tenor saxophonist Junior Cook, like Smith a former member of Horace Silver's combo, is a study in soulful reserve, whittling statements from the grain of the tunes. Alto saxophonist Vincent Herring, in contrast, plays with barely restrained passion. He can't seem to wait to burst into doubletime. On &"Stablemates" he picks up Cook's last phrase and rips ahead like the anchor runner on a relay team. The leader's style has Cook's restraint matched with Herring's penchant for rapid fire runs. No matter how fast he plays, though, he never loses his knack for plucking the plumpest notes off the chords. That harmonic structure is well rooted by the rhythm section, especially bassist Steve LaSpina. On the ballad &"Don't Misunderstand", LaSpina burrows deep to create a melodic as well as harmonic counterline to Smith's tender theme and variations. 

~ David Dupont https://www.allmusic.com/album/strike-up-the-band-mw0000978277  

Personnel:  Trumpet, Flugelhorn – Louis Smith ;  Alto Saxophone – Vincent Herring;  Bass – Steve LaSpina;  Drums – Leroy Williams;  Piano – Kevin Hays;  Tenor Saxophone – Junior Cook

Strike Up The Band

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Vic Juris - Night Tripper

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 66:43
Size: 152.7 MB
Styles: Post bop, Guitar jazz
Year: 1995
Art: Front

[4:51] 1. I Heard You Cried Last Night
[5:44] 2. Dekooning
[8:36] 3. Liebeslied
[5:21] 4. Next Victim
[9:49] 5. Estate
[4:06] 6. Night Tripper
[6:16] 7. Without You
[7:45] 8. Falling In Love With Love
[7:00] 9. For Harry
[7:11] 10. Marigold

Bass – Steve LaSpina; Drums – Jeff Hirshfield; Guitar – Vic Juris; Piano – Phil Markowitz. Recorded April 1994.

During some of the selections on his SteepleChase CD, guitarist Vic Juris displays an echoey tone reminiscent of John Scofield while on a few other numbers he has a dryer and subtle acoustic sound. Juris' improvising is on a high level, performing "Estate," "Falling in Love With Love," two obscurities, and six group originals (four of which are his) with creativity. His sidemen (pianist Phil Markowitz, bassist Steve LaSpina, and drummer Jeff Hirshfield) are alert and have quick reactions. Two high points are the eccentric "Dekooning" and a tasteful bossa nova rendition of "Estate," numbers that best show off Juris' impressive flexibility. ~Scott Yanow

Night Tripper

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Steve LaSpina - Destiny

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
Year: 2011
File: MP3@256K/s
Time: 65:43
Size: 121,4 MB
Art: Front

( 7:41)  1. Odd Times
( 8:59)  2. Destiny
( 9:18)  3. Aberration
( 6:37)  4. Beyond
(10:44)  5. Possibility
( 6:13)  6. Up
(10:42)  7. Sunday
( 5:26)  8. Frags

Steve LaSpina has long been one of Steeplechase producer/owner Nils Winther's favorites, as he has been a frequent sideman on record dates and Destiny marks his 12th CD as a leader for the label. This 2010 session features the bassist with the seasoned guitarist Vic Juris (an old friend), plus pianist Klaus Mueller and drummer Matt Kane, interpreting eight of the leader's originals. The tricky "Odd Times" with its demanding switches in time signatures keeps the musicians on their toes, showcasing Kane in an extended solo with the band vamping behind him. "Destiny" is a slow, poignant ballad with a slight bittersweet air, featuring Juris' lush guitar and LaSpina's mellow, spacious bass. The ballad "Beyond" blends a soft samba rhythm with a mysterious theme. The extended work "Possibility" has a tense, brooding air with LaSpina's bright sound prominent. One can almost imagine a breezy walk in the fall afternoon inspiring the exuberant "Sunday," with Juris' intricate guitar solo buoyed by the potent rhythm section. The ballad "Frags" honors a longtime friend of LaSpina's who died the year prior to the record date; Kane provides the perfect accompaniment to the leader and Juris in this intimate performance. Highly recommended. ~ Ken Dryden http://www.allmusic.com/album/destiny-mw0002150462

Personnel: Steve LaSpina (bass); Klaus Mueller (piano); Vic Juris (guitar); Matt Kane (drums).

Destiny

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Andy LaVerne Trio - Glass Ceiling

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 1993
File: MP3@256K/s
Time: 65:49
Size: 120,7 MB
Art: Front

(4:28)  1. Glass Ceiling
(5:57)  2. Daahoud
(7:14)  3. Litha
(4:27)  4. Zoom
(8:29)  5. You're My Thrill
(5:21)  6. Tones for Joan's Bones
(4:44)  7. Green Piece
(8:12)  8. Jordu
(7:07)  9. All of You
(9:46) 10. Joy Spring

Andy LaVerne's series of consistently fresh CDs for Steeplechase kicked off in the late '80s and shows no signs of letting up, making one wonder if record labels in his native land are too busy searching for the latest young jazz superstar to notice his immense talent. This trio session from 1993 features the pianist with frequent collaborator Steve LaSpina on bass and drummer Anton Fig in a program that includes gems written by Clifford Brown (a driving "Daahoud" and an unusual, break-filled "Joy Spring"), a pair of Chick Corea's tunes (a romp through "Tones for Joan's Bones" and an alternately dark and buoyant interpretation of the lesser-known "Litha"), and a brilliantly reshaped arrangement of Duke Jordan's "Jordu." The quirkiness of LaVerne's "Glass Ceiling" and the drama of his "Green Piece" merit additional attention to his considerable skill as a composer. Like all of Andy LaVerne's many Steeplechase sessions, Glass Ceiling is also highly recommended. ~ Ken Dryden http://www.allmusic.com/album/glass-ceiling-mw0000083789

Personnel:  Andy LaVerne (piano); Steve LaSpina (bass); Anton Fig (drums).

Glass Ceiling

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Steve LaSpina - Play Room

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
Year: 2006
File: MP3@256K/s
Time: 64:07
Size: 117,5 MB
Art: Front

( 6:56)  1. Play Room
( 9:04)  2. Do The Math
(13:35)  3. Suite: It's Just Crazy-It Never Ends-That Explains It
( 3:19)  4. Melissa
(10:08)  5. On The Run
( 8:51)  6. Ashcroft Avenue
(12:11)  7. Just Because

Juggling a whirlwind schedule as a musician, father and student means that bassist Steve LaSpina is always in constant motion. Play Room is a selection of original compositions that comment on the recent state of affairs in his life. The music is lively, contemplative, playful and always involving. The title cut serves as the album's mission statement, placing avant-garde sensibilities within a bop framework. Dave Ballou and Billy Drewes banter mischievously on trumpet and soprano sax, and Gary Versace barks on the Hammond B-3. The shifting time signatures contribute to the overall feeling of spontaneity.  "Do The Math is a more conventional mid-tempo tune, with LaSpina's pizzicato and Versace's excellent piano complementing each other. The three-part suite ("It's Just Crazy -"It Never Ends -"That Explains It ) begins slowly, with LaSpina's dolorous plucking and measured playing by Drewes and Ballou. The suite gathers steam, then opens the valves to the most straight-ahead playing on the album, highlighted by Drewes' gritty tenor sax.

The album pauses for breath with "Melissa, a heartfelt duet by LaSpina and Versace, dominated by LaSpina's robust pizzicato. Then it's back on the treadmill with "On The Run, where Drewes' fluttering soprano works with Ballou's Harmon-muted trumpet. "Ashcroft Avenue continues the dynamism between Drewes and Ballou (on flugelhorn here), with some splendid piano from Versace. LaSpina's arco on "Just Because sounds like a man explaining why he's down on his luck, with Versace's initially nuanced and eventually spiraling organ serving as a sympathetic audience. And that's the trademark of Play Room: throughout the album the musicians don't seem to be playing their instruments as much as having a series of organized, spirited conversations. ~ Terrell Kent Holmes https://www.allaboutjazz.com/play-room-steve-laspina-steeplechase-records-review-by-terrell-kent-holmes.php
 

Personnel: Steve LaSpina: bass; Dave Ballou: trumpet, fluegelhorn; Billy Drewes: saxophone; Gary Versace: Hammond B-3 organ, piano; Jeff Hirshfield: drums.

Play Room

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Andy Laverne - Serenade To Silver

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 1996
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 65:27
Size: 150,3 MB
Art: Front

(6:12)  1. Nica's Dream
(7:51)  2. Strollin'
(6:47)  3. Song For My Father
(5:11)  4. Summer In Central Park
(6:05)  5. Nutville/Cape Verdean
(5:39)  6. Silver's Serenade
(6:53)  7. Gregory Is Here
(6:26)  8. Peace
(6:17)  9. Serenade To Silver
(8:03) 10. Barbara

One might think that focusing on a single composer's well-known pieces and then pretty much using the same instrumentation as he did in a recording session would be a recipe for disaster. But pianist Andy LaVerne manages to find something fresh within ten pieces by Horace Silver, even though he utilizes the same instruments as most of the original recordings. With a front line including trumpeter Tim Hagans and tenor saxophonist Rick Margitza, LaVerne approaches "Strollin'" with a lighter rhythmic touch, while he opens "Song for My Father" with a disguised vamp and immediately starts twisting it harmonically. An explosive medley combining "Nutville" and "Cape Verdean Blues" sizzles with excitement, contrasting with the mellow ballad "Peace," which beautifully blends Hagans' muted horn with Margitza's warm tenor. LaVerne's one original, "Serenade to Silver," is a perky original that captures the spirit of its honoree perfectly. This is a fine all-around salute by Andy LaVerne to the great Horace Silver. 

~ Ken Dryden http://www.allmusic.com/album/serenade-to-silver-mw0000050642

Personnel: Andy LaVerne (piano); Rick Margitza (tenor saxophone); Tim Haggans (trumpet); Steve LaSpina (bass); Billy Drummond (drums).

Serenade To Silver

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Steve LaSpina - The Bounce

Styles: Jazz, Post Bop
Year: 2000
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 67:36
Size: 156,8 MB
Art: Front

( 7:43)  1. The Bounce
( 6:23)  2. Only Now
( 4:51)  3. My One And Only Love
( 9:51)  4. Seven F
(11:03)  5. Ask Me Now
( 8:28)  6. Let Me Go
( 6:06)  7. I've Heard That Song Before
(13:06)  8. How Deep Is The Ocean

Bassist Steve LaSpina's seventh outing on SteepleChase features Dave Ballou on trumpet and flugel, Billy Drewes on tenor and soprano, Vic Juris on guitar, and Jeff Hirshfield on drums. The leader presents four originals: "The Bounce," based on a swinging bass ostinato; "Only Now," a ballad with beautiful chording from Juris; "Seven F," a medium waltz with mellifluous soloing by Drewes, Ballou, and LaSpina; and "Let Me Go," a free bop tune with multiple tempo shifts and a real romp for the horns (Drewes on soprano). Juris contributes "I've Heard That Song Before," which he plays on acoustic guitar (horns lay out), while LaSpina steps forward with a solo rendition of "My One and Only Love," wringing polyphonic possibilities from his instrument. 

The quintet also explores Monk's "Ask Me Now" and closes with a semi-abstract "How Deep Is the Ocean." Beautiful playing from everyone involved. ~ David R.Adler http://www.allmusic.com/album/the-bounce-mw0001203847

Personnel:  Steve LaSpina (bass);  Billy Drewes (tenor sax, alto sax, clarinet, bass clarinet);  Dave Ballou (trumpet);  Jeff Hirshfield (drums);  Vic Juris (guitar)

The Bounce

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Steve LaSpina Quintet - When Children Smile

Styles: Jazz, Post-Bop 
Year: 1997
File: MP3@224K/s
Time: 65:31
Size: 105,3 MB
Art: Front

( 7:44)  1. When Children Smile
( 8:03)  2. Solar
(10:11)  3. There Is no Moon At All
( 8:47)  4. Under a Spell
( 9:28)  5. Ramblin'
( 5:01)  6. Cosenza
( 8:44)  7. Your Heart Alone
( 7:31)  8. Tailspin

This is an impressively thoughtful offering from a bassist often found in the company of thoughtful musicians. As a bassist, LaSpina evokes a wonderful sound, bent to the task by a solid time concept and intonation. That his understanding of the instrument is comprehensive comes through loud and clear on his solo on the CD’s final tune, “Tailspin,” which includes some very musical excerpts from the book of unorthodox techniques. His supporting cast is led by guitarist Vic Juris, who always seems to find an original route through any piece, with Dave Ballou on trumpet, Billy Drewes on tenor and soprano sax, and Jeff Hirshfield on drums rounding out the band. LaSpina’s half dozen compositions carry us through a range of musical and emotional scenes, and the interpretations of Miles’ “Solar” and Ornette’s “Ramblin'” are fresh in both conception and execution. ~ Bill Bennett https://jazztimes.com/reviews/albums/steve-laspina-when-children-smile/

Personnel: Steve LaSpina – Bass;  Dave Ballou – Trumpet;  Billy Drewes – Saxophone;  Jeff Hirshfield – Drums; Vic Juris – Guitar.

When Children Smile

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