Saturday, January 11, 2014

Joe Barna & Lee Russo - The Abenaki

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 60:29
Size: 138.5 MB
Styles: Bop, Piano jazz
Year: 2007
Art: Front

[ 5:08] 1. Bossa For The Ornithologist
[ 6:18] 2. Mobleyisms
[ 6:00] 3. Swingin' Lee
[ 7:57] 4. Carros-Elle
[ 5:18] 5. Emily's Shake
[ 5:39] 6. Lady Like
[ 6:53] 7. Natalie's Lullaby
[ 6:38] 8. Expedition
[10:34] 9. The Abenaki

Did you ever spend weeks or months on tenterhooks, hoping against hope that you'd get this REALLY way cool toy, game, or book for your birthday, only to have it turn out to be a total dud when you finally get it? I've been experiencing the tenterhooks portion of the equation for about six months, waiting for Lee Russo's follow-up to his outstanding debut disc Trading Off (LRS, 2006). Well, I finally got it, and there was good news and a surprise. The good news is The Abenaki simply rocks (in a jazz sense of the word); the surprise is that Russo's name is not alone on the masthead.

This disc is a collaboration between Russo and Joe Barna - one of the most consistently interesting percussionists in the Capital Region, and a major reason why Trading Off was as bewitching as it was. Barna was Russo's primary foil on Trading Off - a necessity on a trio date: Russo's alto-saxman father Leo guested on two tracks, but other than that, it was just Lee and his rhythm section, bringing the West Coast to the East Coast with stripped-down, unapologetic aplomb. Someone else plays the foil on The Abenaki (More on that in a moment), but Barna's got plenty more irons in the fire.

First, Barna is credited with playing “drums and cymbals.” That may seem redundant, but it's not. Barna plays them as two separate instruments - the cymbals being the second voice and driving force behind all the music, and the drums used to add flashes of drama or tension. It's the bebop theory of drumming taken to the next level, and it's both amazing and effective. For one thing, whenever Barna does drop a bomb or play an extended flourish or crescendo, the effect is twice as big as it would have been if he'd been hitting it all night long. His solo on “Mobleyisms” literally makes you jump, and the thunder he brings to the title track makes you want to close the windows to shut out the storm.

Second, we get to experience Joe Barna as a composer. He wrote three terrific pieces for this date, all of them interesting for different reasons: “Carros-Elle” is a light, sweet, almost-classical waltz that swirls around your head, with Russo's sweet, substantial tenor sax in one ear and Barna's hissing brushes in the other; Ryan Berg (another holdover from Trading Off) contributes a resonant bowing bass solo that adds to the classical subtext. “Lady Like” is an out-and-out bossa ballad, straight out of the Stan Getz School of Romance, and as touching a tune as you'll hear all this year. “Swingin' Lee” is just what it says: A chance for Russo to just stand up and play swinging tenor blues over a meaty beat.

And let's talk about Russo's tenor for a moment: I've seen Lee play with his father since Trading Off, and it's obvious the fruit does not fall far from the tree, at least as far as the elder Russo's love of the sub-genre that gave us Dave Brubeck, Gerry Mulligan and Lee Konitz. That said, Lee Russo's music is not simply mashups of solos we've come to know and ignore; his writing and playing is all contemporary and all him. ~J. Hunter

Lee Russo - tenor sax; Dave Solazzo - piano; Ryan Berg - bass; Joe Barna - drums & cymbals.

The Abenaki

Juliann Kuchocki - Don't Explain

Styles: Vocal  Jazz
Year: 2010
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 54:30
Size: 128,4 MB
Art: Front

(3:24)  1. If I Move You
(3:57)  2. You Don't Know Me
(4:57)  3. Don't Explain
(4:37)  4. Besame Mucho
(3:29)  5. One Mint Julep
(4:58)  6. The Wind
(2:34)  7. Hit Me With A Hot Note
(6:07)  8. Somewhere Over The Rainbow
(3:23)  9. Witchcraft
(4:50) 10. Skylark
(7:21) 11. Send In The Clowns
(4:49) 12. We Were Born

Juliann's debut full length album Don't Explain showcases her innate gifts and versatility. It is a celebration of a life's journey that has been by turns exciting and glamorous yet also challenging and painful. Her own indomitable spirit and influences from great jazz, R&B, soul and pop divas past and present shine all the way through. Produced and arranged by Bill King, the album is graced by an all-star cast of Canadian musicians: Bill King (piano & strings), Brian Dickinson (piano) Duncan Hopkins (bass), Mark Kelso (drums), Rob Piltch (guitar), Alex Dean (saxophone, clarinet), William Sperandei (trumpet), Rob Somerville (trombone), Rick Lazar (percussion), Jorge Luis Torres (congas), and guest vocalists Bradley Harder and Josephine Biundo, for the on line bonus tracks, Richard Underhill, Eric Oleskiw, Ray Respicio, Tyler Yarema. Juliann's passion for music and sharing creative energy with an audience radiates from the stage. In person, one is quickly impressed by the scope of her perspective and confident yet humble personality - equally informed by the glare of the spotlight and sheer hard work behind the scenes. 

Her musical voice has been shaped by over 25 years of diverse experience as a vocalist, actress, director, producer, dancer and choreographer. She has headlined the Mont Tremblant Jazz Festival and performed at the Celebrate Toronto street festival; toured with Cats in Germany, Joseph... across North America and Beauty & the Beast in Japan; and performed at countless festivals & events around the world. Her extensive film and TV credits include: the long-running Canadian drama DaVinci's Inquest, First Wave, and Defiance, Ohio with Woody Harrelson, Julianne Moore and Laura Dern. Juliann is the proud owner and director/ choreographer of Pro Arts. This triple-threat company includes: Shows-2-Go, which produces customized live shows; the School at which she teaches students at all levels; and Video Production. "It has been such a joy to be able to finally focus on singing, and an honor to work with such skillful and gracious musicians on Don't Explain," says Juliann. "I am thrilled with the end result, and excited by the prospect of introducing myself to touring audiences once again as a vocalist."     
http://www.cduniverse.com/productinfo.asp?pid=8184765&style=music&fulldesc=T

Dan St. Marseille - Swingin' With The Saint

Styles: Straight-ahead/Mainstream
Year: 2006
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 54:45
Size: 125,9 MB
Art: Front

(4:09)  1. There Will Never Be Another You
(6:25)  2. Finger Painting
(6:45)  3. Só Danço Samba
(5:02)  4. Moonlight in Vermont
(4:39)  5. Just a Closer Walk With Thee
(5:44)  6. Because It's There
(4:45)  7. Rosetta
(5:05)  8. Sweet Lips
(5:03)  9. Inca
(7:03) 10. Frankie And Johnny

With several previous recordings as a leader in addition to his many appearances as a sideman on other albums, Dan St. Marseille is known exclusively as a tenor saxophonist who now, with this release, joins a select group of musicians recording a straight-ahead jazz album with clarinet as the lead instrument. Though he began playing music with the clarinet at the age of nine, Swinging With The Saint is St. Marseille's professional debut on this instrument in one of those rare albums of modern jazz led by the voicing of the clarinet instead of the saxophone. This disc contains ten tracks of challenging originals and familiar standards given a new treatment from the different texture of the clarinet. The result is a varied straight-ahead sound with a sprinkle of New Orleans flavor, a taste of bossa nova and a groove of swing, producing an enjoyable set of music. Assisting St Marseille here is a fine group of players consisting of pianist Chris Dawson, bassist Chris Colangelo and drummer Thomas White, forming a tight quartet and rhythm section delivering faultless musical support. With shades of the great bebop clarinetist Buddy DeFranco, St Marseille introduces the music with a colorful rendition of "There Will Never Be Another You. 

This is followed by Herbie Hancock's "Finger Painting, and one of the best versions of Antonio Carlos Jobim's classic bossa nova "So Danco Samba, clearly one of the spicier tunes on the album. The pronounced voicing of the clarinet stands out on such tunes as the Lenny Tristano-influenced clarinet and piano melody of "Because It's There, that's also a feature for Dawson. The leader's play on "Rosetta evokes comparisons with clarinet masters Benny Goodman and Artie Shaw. The one track not to be missed is the very hip and jazzy "Inca, featuring an appreciable outing by the leader and terrific power drumming from White. Dan St. Marseille may be more recognizable as a saxophonist but his training and love for his first instrument come glaring through with a formidable performance on Swinging With The Saint, a truly heavenly and charming recording of entertaining light jazz. ~ Edward Blanco   http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=25319#.UsmbvLRc_vs
 
Personnel: Dan St. Marseille: clarinet; Chris Dawson: piano; Chris Colangelo: bass; Thomas White: drums.

Meredith D'Ambrosio - It's Your Dance

Styles: Vocal
Year: 1985
File: MP3@224K/s
Time: 47:34
Size: 77,1 MB
Art: Front

(3:12)  1. Giant Steps
(2:30)  2. Once Upon A Tempo
(4:28)  3. Listen Little Girl
(4:55)  4. Devil May Care
(2:26)  5. August Moon
(2:56)  6. Nobody Else But Me
(3:03)  7. Humpty Dumpty Heart
(2:55)  8. It's Your Dance
(5:10)  9. The Underdog
(3:13) 10. It Isn't So Good - It Couldnt Be Better
(3:17) 11. Off Again On Again
(2:46) 12. No One Remembers But Me
(3:37) 13. Miss Harper Goes Bizarre
(2:59) 14. Strange Meadowlark

A first-rate trio date, possibly D'Ambrosio's finest in that format. Her singing has punch, variety, and dimension, and her phrasing is creative and expertly constructed. Kevin Eubanks' guitar contributions are concise, thoughtful, and without any gimmicks or wasted riffs. D'Ambrosio and Harold Danko interact smoothly, and his piano backing is delicate and supportive. ~ Ron Wynn   
http://www.allmusic.com/album/its-your-dance-mw0000188016

It's Your Dance

Jim Cullum Jazz Band - Chasin' The Blues

Styles: Dixieland Jazz
Year: 2006
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 64:56
Size: 149,4 MB
Art: Front

(6:10)  1. Tight Like This
(3:33)  2. Cakewalkin' Babies from Home
(4:36)  3. My Old Kentucky Home, Good Night
(4:03)  4. I've Got the Blues for Home Sweet Home
(4:31)  5. Lonesome Road
(4:00)  6. Slow and Easy
(3:47)  7. Bugle Call Rag
(3:31)  8. Shake That Thing
(5:16)  9. Aunt Hagar's Blues
(5:20) 10. Trouble in Mind
(6:26) 11. Sobbin' Blues
(5:15) 12. Burnin' the Iceberg
(4:19) 13. Apex Blues
(4:01) 14. Diga Diga Doo

Not every hair is in place; sometimes it’s just plain sloppy. But what the heck, this CD is authentic Dixieland. Everyone in the band is having a ball, and the same can be said for the large, live audience in San Antonio. This is the home of the Alamo. Equally historical, it’s where Jim Cullum started his famous jazz band in 1962 not at the Alamo, but at the Landing along the Riverwalk, where the group has played six nights a week since 1980. Thanks to NPR and XM Satellite Radio, the band is a national institution. If traditional is your bag, this new release will be highly enjoyable. For the natives and tourists who crowd into Cullum’s bistro, the band can do no wrong. Every solo not just every tune is applauded heartily. 

The driving cornet of leader Cullum, the trombone work of Kenny Rupp and clarinetist Ron Hockett are a joy to hear. Characteristically, if the front line is strong in a trad band, you’ve got it made. Which makes tunes such as “Cakewalkin’ Babies From Home,” “My Old Kentucky Home,” “Shake That Thing,” “Bugle Call Rag” and “Diga Diga Doo” so exciting. By the way, Topsy Chapman knows how to belt blues. 
~ Harvey Siders  http://jazztimes.com/articles/17077-chasin-the-blues-the-jim-cullum-jazz-band

Chasin' The Blues

Friday, January 10, 2014

Barbara Dane With Earl Fatha Hines - Livin' With The Blues

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 30:06
Size: 68.9 MB
Styles: Blues-jazz vocals
Year: 2013
Art: Front

[2:50] 1. Livin' With The Blues
[2:58] 2. How Long, How Long Blues
[3:07] 3. If I Could Be With You
[2:56] 4. In The Evenin' (When The Sun Goes Down)
[2:27] 5. Bye Bye Blackbird
[3:27] 6. A Hundred Years From Today
[2:59] 7. Mecca Flat Blues
[2:44] 8. Why Don't You Do Right
[3:49] 9. Porgy
[2:45] 10. Since I Fell For You

Barbara Dane (1927) started her musical career in folk music and traditional jazz circles in the mid Forties, first in her native Detroit and then in San Francisco, where in 1954 she came into contact with some local jazz revivalists, including trombonist Bob Mielke and banjo player Dick Oxtot. During her high school years, she had received training as an operatic contralto, but Mielke and Oxtot encouraged her to probe further into the blues with their band, the Bearcats. From the time she first stirred interest among aficionados and critics in San Francisco, she developed into virtually the only white singer of classic blues at the time. On Livin with the Blues (1959), she belts out her message in an all-star group conducted by pianist Earl Hines. It is interesting to hear the splendid trumpet work of Benny Carter, Shelly Manne playing traditional drums, and Plas Johnson soloing to good effect in this context.

Livin' With The Blues

Tommy Emmanuel - Up From Down Under

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 37:08
Size: 85.0 MB
Styles: Fingerpicked guitar, Guitar jazz
Year: 1987/2009
Art: Front

[5:25] 1. Up From Down Under
[4:29] 2. Raindance
[3:05] 3. Daybreak
[2:58] 4. Lady Madonna
[2:16] 5. Soul Search
[3:10] 6. Michelle
[4:27] 7. Initiation
[2:39] 8. Turning Point
[3:27] 9. Times Change
[5:08] 10. Night Sky

Tommy is big in Australia and over in Europe, but guitar fans in America have just been learning about him the past few years. He appeared at the Chet Atkins Appreciation Society Convention a few years ago and brought the house down. People have been talking about him ever since, and his fame is spreading. “He’s about the only guitarist I’ve heard who can come close to what Lenny [Breau] did with harmonics, and he’s got a style all his own. I think he’s probably the greatest finger-picker in the world today. He’s inventive, fearless and has a flawless sense of rhythm. He’s a great showman, too. You can’t watch Tommy perform and not feel happy. I just love him. We made an album together in 1996 called The Day Fingerpickers Took Over The World, which I’m very proud of. It’s got some beautiful tunes on it, and our playing blended well. Tommy is going to give the world a lot of great music in the coming years” ~Chet Atkins

Up From Down Under

Blue Harlem - I Dare You!

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 56:23
Size: 129.1 MB
Styles: Swing, R&B
Year: 2008
Art: Front

[2:55] 1. I Dare You Baby
[4:23] 2. I Cried Last Night
[4:13] 3. Is You Is, Or Is You Ain't My Baby
[3:13] 4. Main Stem
[2:59] 5. Bad Luck
[3:11] 6. I Just Can't Keep The Tears From Falling Down
[3:49] 7. Some Boys
[3:49] 8. Easy Easy
[3:26] 9. Daddy Daddy
[3:32] 10. Bump's Boogie
[3:27] 11. I Don't Hurt Anymore
[2:53] 12. Real Life
[3:34] 13. That's The Way To Treat Your Woman
[4:07] 14. Harry Diamond
[2:33] 15. Did We Have Any Fun
[4:11] 16. I Stepped In Quicksand

This is the fourth album release for Blue Harlem and the first to feature their fabulous new vocalist Sophie Shaw. This album not only captures the fashionable spirit of '40s and '50s rhythm 'n’ blues but also introduces new arrangements and a fresh collection of material. Blue Harlem have always had an enviable reputation on the live music circuit following a career spanning 10 years. They have not only built a huge fan base internationally but have repeatedly been invited back to perform in front of the Royal Family both at Highgrove and Buckingham Palace. Based in London, the band are regulars at The Pigalle and

The 100 Club (the chosen venue for the album launch) and frequently perform at Festivals and venues throughout Europe. Sophie Shaw, who had been a long time fan of the band and regular dancer at their live gigs, previously worked on stage and screen as both an actress and singer. Of this recording Sophie says “I’m really excited about this album. We’ve had a blast getting some fabulous new material down.

The band are playing better than ever – they swing me off my feet.” Al Nicholls, tenor sax player and arranger for the band, says “ I am immensely proud of this recording. It’s by far the best album we have recorded to date. The boys individual playing is terrific – uplifting, generous and spirited. The ensemble playing is tight, crisp but always swinging like mad. Sophie has done a fantastic job re-interpretiung and styling these songs.” In this new recording the band continue the exploration of the urban blues. Artists such as Louis Jordan, Percy Mayfield, Charles Brown, Ruth Brown are all represented here, along with new material from the band itself and the song writing partnership of the legendary beat generation survivor Fran Landesman and composer Simon Wallace. Simon also recorded and co-produced the album. A collaboration of some great musical talent resulting in outstanding interpretations of recordings with a taste of the old and the new. “It’s happy music that makes you want to dance.” ~ Michael Parkinson

I Dare You!

Wild Bill Davis - The Everest Years

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 74:47
Size: 171.2 MB
Styles: Organ jazz
Year: 2005
Art: Front

[2:44] 1. The Madison Time, Pt. 2
[2:11] 2. Blue Skies
[2:49] 3. Soft Winds
[4:39] 4. Organ Grinders Swing
[4:14] 5. Flying Home
[2:37] 6. Independence Hora
[3:10] 7. I Will Follow You
[2:37] 8. That Was Yesterday
[1:57] 9. Milk & Honey
[2:16] 10. Let's Not Waste A Moment
[5:30] 11. Dis Heah
[3:29] 12. Angel Eyes
[2:45] 13. What's New
[3:44] 14. Like Young Lovers Do
[3:32] 15. Wenkie
[3:50] 16. 'round Midnight
[2:51] 17. Blues For Joe
[2:50] 18. Cabato
[2:48] 19. The Nearness Of You
[2:23] 20. I Want A Little Girl
[2:05] 21. Show Me
[3:09] 22. On The Street Where You Live
[2:31] 23. Just You Wait
[1:56] 24. You Did It
[1:57] 25. Rain In Spain

Before Jimmy Smith became the dominant force of the jazz organ, Wild Bill Davis was a major influence. Davis emulated a swinging big band (specifically Count Basie's) in his playing, and his music was accessible, melodic, bluesy, and swinging. He recorded five albums for the Everest label during 1959-1961 and five selections apiece from each of the LPs are included on this single CD. Davis' organ-guitar-drums trio was augmented for these dates by a horn (either tenor saxophonist George Clark, trumpeter Charlie Shavers, or Maurice Simon on tenor) plus, on one set, bassist Milt Hinton. The horn players fare well but Wild Bill Davis is the dominant force throughout and is heard in prime form during the very likable performances, which serve as a strong introduction to his playing. ~ Scott Yanow

Wild Bill Davis (organ); Les Spann (guitar, flute); Bill Jennings, Calvin Newborn (guitar); George Clark (tenor saxophone); Charlie Shavers (trumpet); Milt Hinton, Tommy Bryant (double bass); Grady Tate, Jo Jones (drums).

The Everest Years

Swingerhead - She Could Be A Spy

Styles: Swing, Big Band, Jump Blues
Label: Colossal Music
Released: 1998
File: mp3 @320K/s
Size: 98,8 MB
Time: 43:10
Art: front

1. She Could Be A Spy - 4:08
2. Lady With The Big Cigar - 3:46
3. Pick Up The Phone - 3:06
4. He Just Wants To Cha Cha - 4:17
5. Swing Out - 2:35
6. Let's Rendezvous - 4:05
7. Candy For Breakfast - 2:38
8. At The Strip - 3:43
9. Mary Ann - 5:28
10. Hey Baby I'm Home - 2:41
11. Trying To Cut Back - 2:12
12. I'll Be Alright - 4:26

Personnel:
Michael 'Swingerhead' Andrew (vocals)
Quiche Lorraine (guitar)
Brian Snapp (clarinet, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone)
Tom Butler, Terry Myers (saxophone)
Rick Abbott, John Allred (trombone)
Perry 'Spider' Orfanella (acoustic bass)
Roger King Jr. (drums)
Mark Goldberg (percussion)
and guests.

Notes: Michael Andrew has always loved swing music. In1990, he formed "The Michael Andrew Orchestras" with the goal of providing timeless music in the style of the big bands of the forties and in the tradition of popular singers like Tony Bennett and Frank Sinatra.
In 1993, the world famous Rainbow Room in New York City invited Michael to become their headlining singer and band leader where he performed 5 to 6 nights a week for over two years. In the summer of '96 audiences and critics raved about his "hi-fi,sci-fi" musical comedy, Mickey Swingerhead & The Earthgirls, which was produced in Orlando, Florida.
In 1998, Andrew created his dynamic band known as Swingerhead. Even though they had an extensive touring schedule, Swingerhead was considered the house band at Rat Pack's on the Avenue in Orlando. Michael Andrew and the band performed with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra to a sold out crowd and received several standing ovations.
In 2000, Andrew formed his Los Angeles based band, The Coconut Club Orchestra. They performed at the Coconut Club in Merv Griffin's Beverly Hilton every Saturday night. His Orlando based band, Swingerhead continues to perform throughout Central Florida and the nation and in October of 2001, they won the Best Band award in the category of "Jazz, Lounge and Swing" for the 4th year in a row.
Michael Andrew can be seen leading his band in the opening scene of the MGM motion picture "Heartbreakers" starring Jennifer Love Hewitt, Sigourney Weaver, and Gene Hackman.
Michael enjoys working with his own bands as well as making frequent guest artist appearances with symphonic orchestras across the country.

She Could Be A Spy

Sarah Stivers - This Girl's In Love

Styles: Vocal Jazz
Year: 2005
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 51:21
Size: 117,8 MB
Art: Front

(4:51)  1. Call Me
(4:04)  2. I Thought About You
(3:02)  3. You'd Be So Nice To Come Home To
(5:21)  4. This Girl's In Love
(4:39)  5. How High The Moon
(5:44)  6. My One And Only Love
(3:23)  7. Just One Of Those Things
(5:15)  8. Don't Let Me Be Lonely
(4:53)  9. Everytime We Say Goodbye
(3:57) 10. They All Laughed
(6:06) 11. I Was Telling Him About You

After landing a singing job in a smoky bistro in Paris, Sarah Stivers took the plunge. She had been singing for years, fronting for jazz quintets, big bands and variety groups. But that night in Paris, Sarah decided it was time to set her sights on a life of music. Since then, her nascent career has snowballed from playing with groups in the Midwest to recording her first CD, "This Girl's in Love" with jazz icon, bassist Rufus Reid. Over the range of her repertoire, from Cole Porter to Burt Bacharach, Sarah's sound is so compelling and listener-friendly, and the music is so satisfying, one is left to wonder how "This Girl" could be a debut effort. With smooth, clear tones, Sarah Stivers delivers a singularly powerful punch of passion and intelligence with a voice that is at once sensual and luminous. An expressive and intimate artist, Sarah sings to the heart of each song and to the soul of each listener. Even in a busy club, it's just you, the music and Sarah.  http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/sarahstivers

Branford Marsalis & Joey Calderazzo - Songs Of Mirth & Melancholy

Styles: Jazz
Year: 2010
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 54:26
Size: 124,9 MB
Art: Front

(7:12)  1. One Way
(4:28)  2. The Bard Lachrymose
(7:39)  3. La Valse Kendall
(4:30)  4. 4Face on the Barroom Floor
(6:01)  5. Endymion
(1:41)  6. Die Trauernde
(8:48)  7. Hope
(6:02)  8. Precious
(8:02)  9. Bri's Dance

The Swedish proverb "Shared joy is a double joy; shared sorrow is half a sorrow," is one that perfectly exemplifies Songs of Mirth and Melancholy, from saxophonist Branford Marsalis and pianist Joey Calderazzo. Their bond has solidified over time, since Calderazzo took over the piano chair from the late Kenny Kirkland in Marsalis' ensemble in 1998. While Kirkland's talent can never be replaced, Calderazzo has proven his own deep abilities as a vital member of the band and in his own recordings. Marsalis' voice is commanding in any aspect, whether playing or speaking frankly about the music environment, and continues to resonate as a leader. Together, their rapport illuminates this recording. The mirth begins with Calderazzo's "One Way," a rousing, bluesy piece that strolls down the boulevard like a conversation between two old souls. It sounds like it could have been written in the 1920s, and swings eternally; the piano's ragtag stride provides the perfect foil for the tenor's vociferous backtalk. 

The melancholy comes in Marsalis' heartfelt "The Bard of Lachrymose," captivating like an opera diva working a classical aria, its sentiment a prelude to Calderazzos' alluring "La Valse Lendall," a methodical song in perfect tandem with the soprano saxophone's lyricism. Unlike typical instrument duos, the two masters don't just play off of chord changes, but listen and engage one another. There's also an appreciation for other works in the always compelling version of Johannes Brahms's "Die Trauernde" and a surprising rendition of Wayne Shorter's "Face in the Barroom Floor" from Weather Report's Sportin' Life (Columbia, 1984), as Marsalis' phrasing mimics Shorter's iconic horn to a science. Yet, throughout these nine pieces, both players show their own merit as composers, Marsalis' "Endymion" pointing towards the heavens, and soaring in a flight of harmony and tension, while Calderazzo's "Hope" is suffused with blissful elegance. The release benefits not only from its musicians but also from its environment. Recorded at the Hayti Center in Durham, North Carolina, the acoustics are excellent; the tenor saxophone's warmth is almost tangible on "Precious" and the piano's skittering keys like diamond studded tap shoes on "Bri's Dance." In the end, Songs of Mirth and Melancholy is exceptional when savored; documenting the communication between two musicians and their ability to express emotion through their music. ~ Mark F.Turner   
http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=39518#.Usl08bRc_vs

Personnel: Branford Marsalis: saxophones; Joey Calderazzo: piano.

8½ Souvenirs - Twisted Desire

Styles: Retro Swing, Alternative Country-Rock
Year: 1999
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 43:46
Size: 100,2 MB
Art: Front

(3:35)  1. Sharp Dressed Man
(4:56)  2. L'amour toujours
(4:15)  3. Twisted Desire
(3:44)  4. Eva Luna
(4:13)  5. Dancin'
(3:07)  6. Lonely in Love
(3:02)  7. Life Style
(4:04)  8. My Baby
(3:31)  9. The Rhythm Is Magic
(3:44) 10. Under Your Skin
(2:04) 11. Spider Lady
(3:25) 12. Yes, Yes, Yes

Since it begins with a seemingly ironic reading of ZZ Top's "Sharp Dressed Man," it would be easy to dismiss 8 1/2 Souvenirs' third album Twisted Desire as another tongue-in-cheek Gen-X retro-swing folly. That may be the knee-jerk reaction, but it's an unfair one, because the rest of the album reveals that the band is far more sophisticated, suave, and seductive than most of their peers. No small credit goes to Chrysta Bell, the lead singer whose rich voice brings style and grace to every song, even that misdirected cover that begins the album. Then again, songwriter Olivier Giraud shares equal credit with Bell for being able to write clever, engaging songs, and the entire band shows good taste in picking outside material, such as Walter Hyatt's "Lonely in Love," as well. The end result is a surprisingly enjoyable record that shouldn't be lumped in with the smarmy schtick that usually passes for retro-swing. ~ Stephen Thomas Erlewine   http://www.allmusic.com/album/twisted-desire-mw0000244312

The Everly Brothers - Songs Our Daddy Taught Us

Styles: Pop/Rock
Year: 1958
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 40:29
Size: 93,4 MB
Art: Front

(3:41)  1. Roving Gambler
(3:04)  2. Down In The Willow Garden
(2:26)  3. Long Time Gone
(4:53)  4. Lightning Express
(3:09)  5. That Silver Haired Daddy Of Mine
(2:41)  6. Who's Gonna Show Your Pretty Little Feet-
(4:41)  7. Barbara Allen
(2:37)  8. Oh So Many Years
(3:38)  9. I'm Here To Get My Baby Out Of Jail
(3:01) 10. Rockin' Alone (In An Old Rockin' Chair)
(3:10) 11. Kentucky
(3:21) 12. Put My Little Shoes Away

The Everlys had reached their commercial peak when they made this album of sparsely arranged traditional songs, a concept that was quite a surprise from a top rock & roll act, and considerably ahead of its time. It's actually not as enduring as their early rockers and pop ballads, but the singing is superb on their interpretations of standards like "Barbara Allen" and "Kentucky." ~ Richie Unterberger   
http://www.allmusic.com/album/songs-our-daddy-taught-us-mw0000604335

Thursday, January 9, 2014

Rebecca Hardiman - I'll Remember April

Size: 73,8 MB
Time: 31:20
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2013
Styles: Jazz Vocals
Art: Front

01. This Can't Be Love (3:51)
02. Almost Like Being In Love (4:12)
03. I'll Remember April (2:37)
04. The Nearness Of You (3:11)
05. I Got Rhythm (2:30)
06. The Very Thought Of You (4:21)
07. With A Song In My Heart (2:52)
08. I've Got The World On A String (4:13)
09. Cry Me A River (3:30)

Rebecca started her career with “The Ritz” - a vocal jazz group based in Boston that performed throughout the East Coast including The Montreal Jazz Festival. While with “The Ritz”, she recorded a CD for Denon Columbia Records. After moving back to Portland in 1990, she and her husband started the vocal jazz group “Euphoria”, which performed around Portland for 10 years at various venues including The Cathedral Park Jazz Festival, and was the opening act for Mel Torme’ when he appeared at the Eugene Hult Center. Rebecca also recorded a Gospel Jazz CD of all original songs available on CDBaby.com and PraiseCharts.com. Rebecca’s style is often described as an exciting mix of Doris Day and Ella Fitzgerald.

I'll Remember April  

The New Hot Club Of America - The New Hot Club Of America

Size: 99,8 MB
Time: 41:37
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2013
Styles: Gypsy Jazz, Jazz Vocals
Art: Front

01. Swing Guitars (Feat. Ben Powell & Gonzalo Bergara) (3:07)
02. Festival 48 (Feat. Jason Anick & Gonzalo Bergara) (2:57)
03. Blues Skies (Feat. Leah Zeger & Gonzalo Bergara) (3:36)
04. Webster (Feat. Gonzalo Bergara & Jason Anick) (2:00)
05. Blues Clair (Feat. Gonzalo Bergara) (1:46)
06. Undecided (Feat. Gonzalo Bergara & Leah Zeger) (2:38)
07. Billets Deux (Feat. Rob Hardt & Gonzalo Bergara) (2:37)
08. Rhythm Future (Feat. Jason Anick & Gonzalo Bergara) (2:38)
09. Coucou (Feat. Gonzalo Bergara & Leah Zeger) (2:47)
10. Place De Brouckere (Feat. Ben Powell & Gonzalo Bergara) (2:04)
11. Blues Mineur (Feat. Rob Hardt & Gonzalo Bergara) (3:04)
12. Swing 42 (Feat. Gonzalo Bergara & Rob Hardt) (3:22)
13. Minor Swing (Feat. Gonzalo Bergara, Jason Anick, Leah Zeger, Rob Hardt & Ben Powell) (3:24)
14. Artillerie Lourde (Feat. Gonzalo Bergara & Ben Powell) (3:03)
15. Hungaria (Feat. Gonzalo Bergara) (2:29)

Recently formed, The New Hot Club Of America is an ensemble comprised of some of the top gypsy jazz artists living and performing this music in North America. Modeled on the original instrumentation of the Hot club of France, the New Hot club of America pays particular attention to recapturing the sound, style and spirit of the Hotclub of France by performing music composed and performed by Django Reinhardt & Stephane Grappelli. One of the concepts behind the New Hot club of America is to have an evolving group of featured soloists on rotation. In this way the NHOA can celebrate the many collaborations Django Reinhardt made with other artists in Europe and the USA by inviting singers and instrumental soloists to collaborate in the same way.

The New Hot Club Of America

Laura Hull & Her Jazz Gems - Supper Club Live!

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 62:49
Size: 143.8 MB
Styles: Vocal jazz
Year: 2011
Art: Front

[3:48] 1. Lullaby Of The Leaves
[5:14] 2. Dream
[3:37] 3. Alone Together
[4:46] 4. I Can't Get Started
[4:17] 5. Get Out Of Town
[4:39] 6. How Strange
[4:41] 7. Dreamsville
[5:04] 8. Comes Love
[7:52] 9. Only The Lonely
[4:32] 10. I Got Lucky In The Rain
[5:19] 11. I Wish I Knew
[4:59] 12. Call Me
[3:54] 13. How Deep Is The Ocean

A collection of popular songs and obscure gems in tribute to the supper club experience of eras gone by. Recorded live at Richie Cecere's Supper Club in Montclair, NJ.

With influences ranging from Rosemary Clooney and Carmen McRae to Patsy Cline and k.d. Lang, Laura Hull delivers an extraordinary combination of rich, sultry, and expressive vocals with music drawn from an extensive repertoire of American popular songs, jazz standards, and her original compositions.

A native of New York City, Laura took the first steps of her musical journey at the age of seven when she appeared in an all-girls summer camp production of The King and I. Through her formative years, the road led her to the resorts of upstate New York's fabled Catskill Mountains, where she learned to sing in a variety of genres and styles. She spent time as a versatile session and jingle singer and showcased her singing at clubs in and around New York City After a 24-year hiatus from music to pursue a business career, Laura returned to live performance in 2004. In her many performances since, she has emerged as a melodic jazz singer with a real feel for the Great American Songbook.

Tracks 3, 8, 11, recorded live, July 11, 2009. Laura Hull: Vocals; Ted Brancato: Piano; Steve LaSpina: Bass; Lenny Argese: Guitar; Tony Jefferson: Drums. Tracks 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 9, 10, 12, 13, recorded live, July 25, 2009. Laura Hull: Vocals; Pat Firth: Piano; Saadi Zain: Bass; Lenny Argese: Guitar; Tony Jefferson: Drums.

Supper Club Live!

Gene Ammons - Bad! Bossa Nova

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 34:17
Size: 78.5 MB
Styles: Soul Jazz, Hard bop
Year: 1962/1989/2012
Art: Front

[4:45] 1. Pagan Love Song
[9:34] 2. Ca' Purange (Jungle Soul)
[3:19] 3. Anna
[3:46] 4. Cae, Cae
[7:44] 5. Moito Mato Grosso
[5:06] 6. Yellow Bird

Bad Bossa Nova is right – as Gene Ammons really hits a great groove here – one that's not exactly bossa, but which has lots of Latin and tropical touches! The session makes great use of 2 guitars at the same time – using that of Kenny Burrell for soulful rhythm, but also adding in Bucky Pizzarelli for some nice acoustic embellishments – in a mode that's similar to the soul jazz-com-bossa style used on records like Ike Quebec's Soul Samba or Charlie Rouse's Bossa Nova Bacchanal. The overall rhythms are a bit more complicated, and a bit more soul jazz based than those sets – with Hank Jones on piano, Oliver Jackson on percussion, and Al Hayes adding in some sweet extra bongo! ~Dusty Groove

Bad! Bossa Nova

Alberto Marsico - Rock Candy

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 57:07
Size: 130.8 MB
Styles: Hammond organ jazz
Year: 2004
Art: Front

[4:46] 1. The Champ
[4:24] 2. Ready And Able
[5:22] 3. The Cat
[3:44] 4. Rock Candy
[5:12] 5. Talkin` About J.C.
[4:47] 6. Lazy
[4:39] 7. A Whiter Shade Of Pale
[4:51] 8. Gotcha
[9:31] 9. 8
[9:45] 10. Monster Blues

2004 release dedicated to Hammond organ history. Classic Hammond tunes played with a 4-piece brass section.

Nato a Torino nel 1966, è attivo a livello professionale da circa venticinque anni come organista e tastierista; la sua passione per l'organo Hammond nasce però nel 1994, dopo aver frequentato i seminari di Jack McDuff a Genova.

Rock Candy

Lisa Hearns - I Got It Bad and That Ain't Good

Styles: Vocal Jazz
Year: 2008
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 39:58
Size: 91,9 MB
Art: Front

(6:03)  1. I Got It Bad and That Ain't Good
(3:22)  2. Easy Living
(4:55)  3. I Heard It Through the Grapevine
(2:54)  4. Cheek to Cheek
(3:32)  5. Plus Je T'Embrasse
(3:48)  6. Love for Sale
(4:18)  7. Lonely Woman
(2:51)  8. Wild Is Love
(3:27)  9. On the Street Where You Live
(4:44) 10. Cry Me a River

Nearly a decade ago, the jazz world was introduced to Jane Monheit, an upstart singer with an exceptional voice. Monheit put a fresh face to several standards with her early releases. Lisa Hearns is in that same mold.  The daughter of two music professors, Hearns grew up in Massachusetts and is a graduate of the Berklee College of Music. Though she has sung professionally and made several recordings, I Got It Bad and That Ain't Good is her first foray into jazz. She is aided by Grammy-winning producer Elliot Scheiner. Accompanying musicians are Kelly Friesen on bass, Keith Ingham on piano, Arnold Wise on drums, and guest guitarist Howard Alden appears on several tracks. Hearns starts this 10-song set with the title track. In elegant lounge singer fashion, she brings an earthy touch to the Ellington/Webster composition. 

It begins as a duet between Hearns and Alden, and then the other musicians join in. During the middle break, Friesen solos, accompanied by Ingham and Wise. Hearns demonstrates some impressive control during a series of roulades before the closing sequence. The French "Plus Je T'Embrasse" is delightful. Hearns' voice provides just a touch of sass. Ingham and Alden add to the spirit with solos. The bass and drums, though in the background, add their emphasis as well.  Alden helps carry the rhythm on the upbeat "Wild Is Love." Freisen features prominently. Ingham's solo is punctuated by Wise's rim shots. And, as she does, Hearns sings with a joyous flair.  The one non-jazz song that's covered here is the Motown classic "I Heard It Through the Grapevine." Hearns is an effective lead vocalist who shares the spotlight with her accompanists. Likewise, the musicians are involved enough to be noticed both individually and as a group, but they don't dominate. ~ Woodrow Wilkins  http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/profile.php?id=2429

Personnel: Lisa Hearns: vocals; Kelly Friesen: bass; Keith Ingram: piano; Arnold Wise: drums; Howard Alden: guitar (1, 2, 5, 8).