Tuesday, July 9, 2024

Karin Krog, Georgie Fame - On a Misty Night: The Songs of Tadd Dameron

Styles: Vocal
Size: 153,8 MB
Time: 66:41
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Year: 2018
Art: Front

1. On a Misty Night (7:17)
2. I'm Never Happy Anymore (5:59)
3. If You Could See Me Know (7:49)
4. Accentuate the Bass (5:35)
5. That´s the Way It Goes (4:11)
6. Take a Chance on Spring (5:00)
7. Dig It (3:52)
8. The Happy Heart (4:06)
9. Never Been in Love (5:21)
10. Good Bait / Ladybird (6:31)
11. Fointainbleau / Trane (5:16)
12. That´s the Way It Goes - Alternative Version (5:36)

Jazz connoisseurs know all about the magic of Cleveland born pianist, composer and arranger Tadd Dameron, best known perhaps for his tune ‘On A Misty Night’. One of Dameron’s biggest advocates is national treasure George Fame. Georgie has recorded ‘Misty Night’ on at least two occasions and regularly features it in his live shows, so when he was invited to join a musical tribute to Dameron, he jumped at the chance.

The invite came via Norwegian jazz pianist Per Husby who was persuaded by jazz chanteuse Karin Krog to investigate the oft-neglected work of Dameron. This was back in 1983 when Husby and Krog recorded four Dameron songs that, sadly, were never released at the time. The duo presented the songs at the Molde Jazz Festival in 1984 and despite a tape running, the live recording was deemed poor quality and never issued. Then ’85 a CD, ‘Dedications’, was finally released by Hot Club Records. By this time George Fame had come on board after Husby had asked him to add lyrics to a number of the tunes and the album eventually won a Norwegian Grammy.

In 1996 the Husby/Krog pairing was resurrected by record label owner Bjørn Petersen who had the team record more Dameron songs in New York but after a “soft” and critically acclaimed release the project floundered.

Ms Krog, though, is nothing if not dogged and last year managed to persuade Odin Records that there was just too much good music in the can to lay unappreciated. So the label team put together this “new” Todd Dameron tribute album which contains recordings from 1984, ’85 and ’96.

The album is named for Dameron’s best-known song and this 7 minute plus version of ‘On A Misty Night’ opens proceedings. On it Fame and Krog share the vocal as they do on other Dameron classics like the sprightly ‘Dig It’, ‘That’s The Way it Goes’ and the clever medley of ‘Good Bait’ and ‘Ladybird’. Georgie’s out on his own on ‘Accentuate The Bass’ while Ms Krog enjoys five solos including the surprising ‘I’m Never Happy Anymore’. She also features on the medley of ‘Fontainebleau’/’Trane’ and ‘That’s The Way It Goes’. Both those tracks, from the live Molde Jazz Festival recording, have never been issued in any format before.

It all sounds very confusing, doesn’t it? At last, though, more jazz fans can enjoy more of the artistry of Georgie Fame and Karin Krog, the arranging skills of Per Husby and, above all, the wonderful tunes of Tadd Dameron.
https://www.soulandjazzandfunk.com/reviews/karin-krog-a-georgie-fame-on-a-misty-night-odin-records/

Personnel: Vocals – Georgie Fame, Karin Krog; Alto Saxophone – Guttorm Guttormsen, Vidar Johansen; Alto Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone – Jerome Richardson; Baritone Saxophone – John Pål Inderberg , Scott Robinson ; Baritone Saxophone, Bass Clarinet – John Surman; Bass - Jay Leonard, Terje Venaas; Drums – Egil Johansen, Grady Tate; Flute – Vidar Johansen; French Horn – Odd Ulleberg , Peter Gordon ; Guitar – Bucky Pizzarelli; Orchestra – Per Husby Orchestra; Piano – Egil Kapstad , Ted Rosenthal; Soloist [Trumpet Solo] – Atle Hammer, Michael Leonhart; Soprano Saxophone – Vidar Johansen; Soprano Saxophone, Clarinet, Flute – Guttorm Guttormsen; Tenor Saxophone, Flute – Frank Wess , Knut Riisnæs; Trombone – Frode Thingnæs, Jim Pugh; Trumpet – Atle Hammer , Earl Gardner, Jan Allan, Martin Drover, Michael Leonhart , Petter Kateraas; Tuba – Howard Johnson , Stein Erik Tafjord

On a Misty Night: The Songs of Tadd Dameron

Jan Lundgren - Blue Lights

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 2010
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 58:57
Size: 136,1 MB
Art: Front

(6:19) 1. Take Me In Your Arms
(4:35) 2. Blue Lights
(5:53) 3. Love Of My Life
(5:10) 4. Easily Found
(5:33) 5. Stranger In Paradise
(4:59) 6. Winter Moon
(6:47) 7. A Sunny Rain
(5:34) 8. Fair Weather
(4:51) 9. Skylark
(4:57) 10. Out Of The Past
(4:13) 11. We could Make Such Beatiful Music Together

Lundgren, born in Kristianstad in southern Sweden on March 22nd 1966, and raised in Ronneby, Blekinge, had his first piano lessons at age five. He was soon discovered to have an exceptional musical talent. After a long period of classical training, he discovered jazz more or less by chance in the late 1980’s. He was instantly hooked, rapidly absorbed the jazz piano tradition from Oscar Peterson, Erroll Garner to Bud Powell and Bill Evans, and acquired a depth of knowledge of the Great American Songbook like possibly no other European jazz pianist.

While sailing through his studies at the renowned Royal College of Music in Malmö, he also took up a busy schedule as a professional musician that quickly helped to build his reputation in Sweden. Discovered by Swedish bebop legend Arne Domnérus, he frequently played with other Swedish stars like Putte Wickman and Bernt Rosengren.

Lundgren’s debut album “Conclusion” was released in 1994, and propelled his career firmly forward. The following year saw the formation of the Jan Lundgren Trio with long time student associates Mattias Svensson (bass) and Rasmus Kihlberg (drums), who was replaced in the beginning of the year 2000 by the Dane Morten Lund. This steady band recorded seven well-received and commercially very successful albums for the Swedish label “Sittel” in the period up to 2003.

The album “Swedish Standards”, released in 1997 even became a bestseller and reached a place in the Swedish pop charts. But the album “Landscapes” (2003) sold comparably and both releases soon became classics due to their linking Swedish folk music and jazz. The band’s intense tour schedule founds a temporary peak in a concert at Carnegie Hall as part of “Swedish Jazz salutes the USA”.

As a sideman, Lundgren has accompanied such greats as Johnny Griffin, Benny Golson, Herb Geller, James Moody, or singer Stacey Kent. He has also shared the stage with ACT-artist Ulf Wakenius a number of times.

Jan Lundgren has been awarded a number of prizes since the early 90’s: In 1997 “Swedish Standards” became “best jazz album of the year”. He was nominated for the “Swedish Grammy” in 1995, 1997 and 2008 and the “Swedish Django d’Or Prize” in 1998, 2001 and 2002.

Having visited a long list of European territories and venues, Lundgren has also been on extended tours of Australia and Japan. He has visited the USA about 15 times and recorded some well-received albums for the label “Fresh Sound”.
https://www.allaboutjazz.com/musicians/jan-lundgren

Personnel: Piano – Jan Lundgren; Bass – Jesper Lundgaard; Drums – Alex Riel

Blue Lights

Monday, July 8, 2024

Laura Fygi - The Latin Touch

Styles: Vocal Jazz
Year: 2000
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 58:13
Size: 134,6 MB
Art: Front

(3:35)  1. Historia De Un Amor
(3:28)  2. Quizas, Quizas, Quizas
(3:23)  3. Perfidia
(4:11)  4. Abrazame
(3:04)  5. Como Fue
(2:52)  6. Solamente Una Vez
(3:03)  7. Besame Mucho
(3:38)  8. Noche De Ronda
(3:06)  9. Piel Canela
(3:40) 10. La Puerta
(4:22) 11. Dimelo
(3:52) 12. La Mentira
(3:08) 13. Amor
(3:23) 14. Cuando Vuelva A Tu Lado
(2:51) 15. You Belong To My Heart (Solamente Una Vez)
(3:09) 16. Amor (English Version)
(3:21) 17. What A Difference A Day Makes (Cuando Vuelva A Tu Lado)

''I'm going back to my roots,'' Laura Fygi said about The Latin Touch. A delectable mix of salsa, cha-cha and great boleros is the ingredient for this magnificent album. A nice variation of slow and fast numbers, the album also includes classics such as ''Quizas, Quizas, Quizas'', ''Besame Mucho'', among others. There are three bonus tracks accompanying this album, all of which are the English versions of the other tracks. This seventh album offering from Laura Fygi is simply the best. Universal. 2000. ~ Editorial Reviews https://www.amazon.com/Latin-Touch-LAURA-FYGI/dp/B00004S5ZG

Personnel: Laura Fygi (background vocals); Leonardo Amuedo (guitar, background vocals); Friederike Darius (alto flute); Joe Rivera , Ruud Breuls (trumpet); David Rothschild (trombone); Hans Vroomans (piano, background vocals); Frits Landesbergen (vibraphone); Liber Torriente (bongos, percussion); Beatriz Aguiar (background vocals).

The Latin Touch

Jim Rotondi Quintet - Introducing Jim Rotondi

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 1997
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 57:20
Size: 132,0 MB
Art: Front

(7:43)  1. Ninny Melina
(8:45)  2. Woodoo
(5:01)  3. Make Believe
(7:36)  4. Little Flower
(6:15)  5. A Peck A Sec
(6:45)  6. Too Soon To Tell
(6:56)  7. Indian Summer
(8:16)  8. On The Que Tee

Trumpeter Jim Rotondi is a solid post-bop musician with a warm tone and an improvisational approach deeply steeped in the tradition of great jazz trumpeters. While the Butte, Montana native began piano lessons with his mother at age eight, it was the trumpet that became his main instrument from age 12 on. After graduating high school in 1980, Rotondi enrolled in the highly regarded jazz studies program at North Texas State University. In 1984, he earned first place in the International Trumpet Guild's jazz trumpet competition. Post-college, Rotondi toured with various ensembles including the Lionel Hampton Orchestra and Charles Earland's quintet. Eventually settling in New York City, Rotondi established himself as a mainstay in the city's vibrant jazz club scene.

In 1997, Rotondi joined forces with saxophonist Eric Alexander and drummer Joe Farnsworth to form the jazz super-group One For All with which he has recorded a large body of work. Also in 1997, he released his debut album, Introducing Jim Rotondi on the Dutch label Criss Cross. Since then he has released a steady stream of albums including Jim's Bop (1998), Excursions (2000), Destination Up (2001), New Vistas (2004), Iron Man (2006), Four of a Kind (2008), 1000 Rainbows (2010), and Hard Hittin' at the Bird's Eye (2013). In the 2000's, Rotondi began spending more time in Europe, eventually relocating to Graz, Austria where he holds a jazz professor position at the University of Music and Dramatic Arts. When not teaching, Rotondi remains an active touring a recording musician as both a solo artist and member of One For All. In 2016, he released Dark Blue on the Smoke Sessions Records. By Matt Collar https://www.allmusic.com/artist/jim-rotondi-mn0000852157/biography

Introducing Jim Rotondi

Steve Slagle - Dedication

Styles: Saxophone, Flute Jazz
Year: 2018
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 58:24
Size: 134,7 MB
Art: Front

(6:36)  1. Sun Song
(6:23)  2. Niner
(7:44)  3. Major in Come
(7:06)  4. Triste Beleza (Beautiful Sadness)
(6:45)  5. Opener
(5:59)  6. Watching Over
(4:19)  7. Corazon
(6:23)  8. Sofi
(7:04)  9. Charcoal Blues

Steve Slagle is one of those players that's often overlooked yet hard to forget. Why this sixty-five-year-old saxophonist who's constantly bringing energy and a spirit of exploration to the fore doesn't get the ink or marquees that come to his musical peers ten years his senior or several decades his junior is something of a head-scratcher. If you've seen him as a sideman, encountered him co-leading a band with guitarist Dave Stryker, checked out his duo work with pianist Bill O'Connell on The Power Of Two (Panorama Records, 2015), or heard any of his fine recent leader dates, like Evensong (Panorama Records, 2012) or Alto Manhattan (Panorama Records, 2016), it's fairly likely that you're wondering the same thing. While there's no firm explanation about Slagle's status, other than the fact that many jazz lovers are polarized and look only toward the "new thing" or focus exclusively on extreme longevity, there's no doubt that his name should be high on the list of stellar alto players plying their trade on the scene. This album, referencing both the man's steadfast study of his craft and the dedicatory nature of these songs, is but one more example of his strengths. With a stellar band by his side, Slagle delivers nine numbers that clearly point toward his influences, preferences, and experiences. "Sun Song," a bright and grooving calypso honoring the great Sonny Rollins, leads off the program. 

Then comes "Niner," a hip and angular tune taking its title from a nickname bestowed upon on Slagle by bassist Steve Swallow; "Major Come In," an up-tempo thriller given unto swing itself that works off of major chords in five different keys and runs on Bill Stewart's spang-a-lang ride work and Scott Colley's driving bass lines; "Triste Beleza (Beautiful Sadness)," a breezy bossa nova dedicated to "the great spirit of music from Brazil"; and "Opener," nodding toward saxophonist Jackie McLean, containing one of pianist Lawrence Fields' most memorable solos on the album, and featuring the leader on alto and flute. In all five cases, one thought rings true: Slagle remains consistently inventive as he uses his imagination and skill to color within, right on, and just outside the lines. The back-end of the album proves to be perfectly in line with what precedes it, presenting songs that are both grounded and intriguing. "Watching Over," for Marc Chagall, is straight-eighths and swirling colors, with the appealing Stryker-Slagle partnership in the spotlight. That duo's chemistry is then further highlighted on Stryker's Joe Zawinul dedication, "Corazon," where melodic directness acts as a cornerstone and bass and nylon strong acoustic create a supportive foundation for the alto's melodic musings. 

To finish things off this band delivers "Sofi," a soprano-fronted song in seven dedicated to Slagle's daughter, and Wayne Shorter's "Charcoal Blues," saluting the piece's composer and providing a welcome dose of earthy blowing. There may be saxophonists who've been in the game longer and/or pushed more boundaries, but you'd be hard-pressed to find a more dependably "on" player than Steve Slagle. By Dan Bilawsky https://www.allaboutjazz.com/dedication-steve-slagle-panorama-records-review-by-dan-bilawsky.php

Personnel: Steve Slagle: alto saxophone, flute (5), soprano saxophone (8); Lawrence FIelds: piano; Scott Colley: bass; Bill Stewart: drums; Roman Diaz: congo, percussion (1, 4, 5, 6, 7); Dave Stryker: electric guitar (2, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9), nylon string acoustic guitar (4, 7).

Dedication

Sunday, July 7, 2024

Jo Stafford - Lucky Days

Styles: Vocal
Year: 2021
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 68:22
Size: 158,1 MB
Art: Front

(2:30) 1. Baby, It's Cold Outside
(2:53) 2. Sleigh Ride
(3:04) 3. O Holy Morning
(1:34) 4. Winter Weather
(2:05) 5. Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow
(2:08) 6. Silent Night
(3:33) 7. The Christmas Song
(2:28) 8. I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm
(2:20) 9. Winter Wonderland
(2:37) 10. By the Fireside
(2:20) 11. It Happened in Sun Valley
(3:03) 12. Toyland
(4:14) 13. 'T Was the Night Before Christmas
(2:23) 14. March of the Toys
(3:21) 15. June in January
(0:32) 16. Jingle Bells
(2:34) 17. I Wonder as I Wander
(3:21) 18. Whiffenpoof Song
(3:38) 19. Hanover Winter Song
(3:31) 20. Georgia on My Mind
(3:08) 21. Moonlight in Vermont
(3:11) 22. Nearer My God to Thee
(0:44) 23. Happy Holiday
(2:36) 24. These Will Be the Best Years of Our Lives
(1:55) 25. O Little Town of Bethlehelm
(2:27) 26. Make Believe

Jo Elizabeth Stafford, the third of four sisters, was born November 12, 1917 on a tract of land known as "Lease 35" in Coalinga,California. Her mother, Anna York Stafford,a distant cousin of World War I hero Alvin York was known as one of the finest five-string banjoists in Gainsboro, Tennessee. Her father, Grover Cleveland Stafford, had come West to work in the California oil fields.

Jo's professional debut was with the Stafford Sisters, a trio in which Jo, upon graduation from Long Beach Poly High, joined her sisters Christine and Pauline. They had their own weekly radio show on KHJ radio, were regular performers on David Broekman's California Melodies, the Crockett Family of Kentucky shows, and performed both solo and group vocal work for all the major motion picture studios.

After marriage broke up the Stafford Sisters trio , Jo joined a group called the Pied Pipers, and along with her seven other group members was hired by Tommy Dorsey for the Raleigh-Kool radio program in 1938. After ten weeks with Dorsey the group dissolved, but Jo was hired back with three others once again as the Pied Pipers who sang with Dorsey for three years, recorded "I'll Never Smile Again" with Frank Sinatra, and provided Jo with the opportunity of making her own solo recordings with the Dorsey band. Her first solo recording was "Little Man with a Candy Cigar."

When Johnny Mercer assembled the artists to form Capitol Records in 1943, Jo began a recording career that was to culminate in Columbia Records giving her a Diamond Award as the first recording artist to sell 25,000,000 Records.

After guesting on all the major radio shows, Jo started her own series with the Chesterfield Supper Club, to which was added the Jo Stafford Show for Revere Camera, followed by featured roles on the Carnation and Club 15 Shows.

In 1950, Jo began a series of broadcasts that brought her international recognition. In Hollywood she recorded a weekly fifteen minute Youth Program for the Voice of America to internationally promote the cause of democracy.

Soon she added another weekly half-hour musical show, also recorded in Hollywood, for broadcast over 200,000 watt Radio Luxembourg; Europe's most powerful station. During this period Frank Lee , then British director of Radio Luxembourg said: "In her own quiet way Stafford is selling America to Europe."

In 1952, coinciding with her marriage to arranger/conductor/composer Paul Weston, European demand (and a honeymoon) took them to London, where she headlined the bill at the Palladium and made appearances for the Voice of America in the British Isles and on the continent.

With the advent of television , Jo Stafford guested on all the major variety shows, and in 1954 hosted her own JO STAFFORD SHOW on CBS-TV. Thus when Hollywood decided to commemorate its stars with plaques in the sidewalks of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street Jo Stafford was one of the few stars to have three separate plaques, one for records, one for radio, and one for television.

In the late fifties she cut down her activities sharply in order to devote her time to her family, and aside from a few trips to New York to appear on the Garry Moore and Firestone Hour Variety Shows, she did only recordings and TV shows based in Hollywood.

In 1961 the family moved to London for the summer so that Jo could host her final JO STAFFORD SHOW, a syndicated series for the ATV British Network. These shows were seen in this country, Australia, New Zealand and Canada, as well as in the British Isles, and her guests included Bob Hope, Peggy Lee, Ella Fitzgerald and Peter Sellers.

While family commitments precluded her public appearances, Jo did continue to record for Capitol, Dot , and Reader's Digest Records, as well as making religious albums for Corinthian and the World Library of Sacred Music.

Her Hits include: "You Belong to Me", "Timtayshun" , "Whispering Hope" ( with Gordon MacRae ), "Shrimp Boats", "Make Love to Me", "Jambalaya", her album of "American Folk Songs", and the comedy albums made under the name of Darlene Edwards. One of these, "Jonathan and Darlene in Paris", won a Grammy Award in 1960 for Best Comedy Recording. Most of her best known recordings including "The Columbia Hits Collection", are currently in release on the Corinthian Records label.

She is a past-president of SHARE, one of Hollywood's best known charitable organizations, which concerns itself with aiding mentally handicapped children. One of her last public appearances was at SHARE's 25th Anniversary Show, along with Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis,Jr., Johnny Carson and Milton Berle.

Her final public vocal performance was with the Hi Los as part of a Society Of Singers tribute to Frank Sinatra. Her Corinthian recordings continue to enjoy sales throughout the world.
https://www.allaboutjazz.com/musicians/jo-stafford

Lucky Days

Kenny Burrell - Unlimited 1: Live at Catalina's

Styles: Guitar Jazz, Big Band
Year: 2016
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 75:51
Size: 174,3 MB
Art: Front

(1:29)  1. Spoken Introduction
(9:33)  2. Stolen Moments
(5:36)  3. Jeannine
(5:43)  4. Be Yourself
(0:27)  5. Spoken Introduction
(6:03)  6. Remembering
(1:07)  7. Spoken Introduction
(9:33)  8. Mama Ya Ya
(5:43)  9. Fourth Dimensions (aka Kenny's Sound)
(7:49) 10. Adelante!
(0:26) 11. Spoken Introduction
(6:28) 12. Soulero
(0:22) 13. Spoken Introduction
(9:49) 14. Strayhorn Medley: Passion Flower/Take the "A" Train
(0:15) 15. Spoken Introduction
(5:22) 16. Things Ain't What They Used to Be (with Barbara Morrison)

Guitarist Kenny Burrell, who isn't generally known for hanging out with big bands, now has one of his own: the Los Angeles-based Jazz Orchestra Unlimited, for which he serves as music director on its debut album, Unlimited 1, Live at Catalina's. While the ensemble is splendid, individually and collectively, there's no doubt that Burrell is the star attraction. Any misgiving about that is erased by the fact that the names of orchestra members aren't listed in the Catalina's booklet except as soloists.

Luckily, most of them have at least one chance to do so, leaving less than a handful of uncounted participants. In his opening remarks, Burrell says a part of the orchestra's mission is to become a repertory ensemble playing "the great jazz classics and standards," a purpose that is somewhat underplayed here, as only four of the ten numbers would qualify as such. Besides soloing on all but one selection, Burrell sings on two (Duke Pearson's "Jeannine," his own "Remembering"), guest Barbara Morrison on one (the bravura finale, "Things Ain't What They Used to Be"). Although his voice is by no means polished, Burrell manages to reach the proper notes; Morrison, meanwhile, lends a bluesy patina to the Ellington classic, on which Burrell and the orchestra swing with abandon. Burrell's co-directors are composer / arranger / guitarist Charley Harrison and trumpeter Bobby Rodriguez, and among the album's highlights is Rodriguez' loping Latin-accented romp, "Mama Ya Ya," written to honor his great-great grandmother (on his mother's side).

Rodriguez also composed the multi-faceted "Adelante!" as a showpiece for Burrell and the orchestra. Completing the amiable program are Burrell's lyrical "Be Yourself" (inspired, he writes, by Ellington) and power-packed "Fourth Dimensions" (arranged by Don Sickler), Richard Evans ' evocative blues, "Soulero" (featuring versatile drummer Clayton Cameron) and a Billy Strayhorn medley ("Passion Flower," "Take the 'A' Train"), on the last of which the trumpet section reprises Ray Nance's original solo. In sum, an auspicious debut by the Jazz Unlimited Orchestra, whose sections are laden with some of the area's most accomplished sidemen, and another solid outing for Burrell who is at home in any arena.By Jack Bowers https://www.allaboutjazz.com/unlimited-1-live-at-catalinas-kenny-burrell-highnote-records-review-by-jack-bowers.php

Personnel: Kenny Burrell: artistic director, electric guitar, vocals, commentary; Los Angeles Jazz Orchestra Unlimited: Charley Harrison, Dr. Bobby Rodriguez: co-directors; Bobby Rodriguez: trumpet; Mike Price: trumpet; Dave Richards: trumpet; Jon Papanbrook: trumpet; Tom Marino: trumpet; Andre Delano: alto sax; Justo Almario: tenor sax, flute; Scott Mayo: tenor sax; Charles Owens: baritone sax; Nick De Pinna: trombone; Ryan Porter: trombone; Billy Mitchell: piano; Trevor Ware: bass; Clayton Cameron: drums; Barbara Morrison: vocal (16). Other personnel unlisted.

Unlimited 1: Live at Catalina's

Black Art Jazz Collective - Truth To Power

Styles: Jazz, Big Band
Size: 144,2 MB
Time: 62:45
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2024
Art: Front

1. Black Heart (5:49)
2. The Fabricator (6:16)
3. Truth To Power (8:20)
4. It's Alright (7:51)
5. Coming Of Age (5:29)
6. Dsus (5:29)
7. Code Switching (5:51)
8. Soliloquy (For Sidney Poitier) (4:20)
9. Lookin' For Leroy (6:45)
10. Blues On Stratford Road (6:30)

Many jazz fans break out in a sweat when they see the word “collective" in the name of a jazz group. One assumes the music is going to be avant-garde and free form to the point of incoherence. You'll be happy to know that that the Black Art Jazz Collective's new album Truth to Power (HighNote) is warmly stormy and soulfully engaging.

This collective is a sextet that has been around since 2014 and features topnotch musicians carrying on the tradition of black jazz of the 1960s and '70s that was both spirited and socially conscious. The album includes the following musicians on different tracks: Jeremy Pelt, Josh Evans and Wallace Roney Jr. (tp), James Burton III (tp), Wayne Escoffery (saxophones), Xavier Davis and Victor Gould (p,el p), Vincent Archer and Rashaan Carter (b) and Johnathan Blake and Mark Whitfield, Jr. (d).

tracks are: Black Heart; The Fabricator; Truth to Power; It's Alright; Coming of Age; Dsus; Code Switching; Soliloquy (for Sidney Poitier); Lookin' for Leroy; Blues on Stratford.

The music is hard-charging ("Truth to Power," “Dsus," “Lookin' for Leroy" and “Code Switching") and sensual ("It's Alright" and “Soliloquy for Sidney Poitier". In some places the group reminds me of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers with Wayne Shorter and in others the Jazz Crusaders.

Overall, the Black Art Jazz Collective has its own sound that delivers a strong message. This is jazz from a black point of view as I remember it in the 1960s and '70s, which means it's deeply felt and muscular in a poetic, meaningful way. Check it out. By Marc Myers
https://www.allaboutjazz.com/news/black-art-jazz-collective-and-39truth-to-power-and-39/

Personnel: Wayne Escoffery - (tenor saxophone); Jeremy Pelt - (trumpet); Josh Evans, Wallace Roney Jr; James Burton III - (trombone); Xavier Davis - (piano on tracks 1, 2, 4, 5, 9 & 10); Victor Gould - (piano on tracks 3, 6, 7 & 8); Vicente Archer - (bass on tracks 1, 2, 4, 5, 9 & 10); Rashaan Carter - (bass on tracks 3, 6, 7 & 8); Johnathan Blake - (drums on tracks 1, 2, 4, 5, 9 & 10); Mark Whitfield Jr - (drums on tracks 3, 6, 7 & 8).

Truth To Power

Jacintha - The Girl from Bossa Nova

Styles: Vocal, Brazilian Jazz, Bossa Nova
Year: 2004
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 45:17
Size: 104,0 MB
Art: Front

(4:34) 1. O Ganso
(3:15) 2. So Danço Samba
(4:48) 3. Dindi
(3:44) 4. Once I Loved
(4:32)  5. Desafinado
(5:07) 6. So Nice
(5:08) 7. Wave
(5:06) 8. How Insensitive
(4:51) 9. Corcovado
(4:07) 10. Waters Of March


Jacintha picks up the tempo on her first bossa nova session. Featuring a program of some of the most well known classics of the genre, including several Jobim favorites like So Nice, Desafinado, Dindi and Corcovado, as well as less familiar tunes like O Ganso and So Danco Samba, this CD is a striking change of pace for Jacintha. With superb work from tenor Harry Allen and guitarist John Pisano (ex-Diana Krall), the album's supreme finishing is the magical playing of legendary Brazilian master percussionist Paulinho Da Costa, who blesses the entire album with an authentic bossa nova vibe.By Editorial Reviews https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Bossa-Nova-Jacintha/dp/B00027JYWQ


Personnel: Acoustic Guitar – John Pisano; Bass – Darek Oleszkiewicz; Drums – Tim Pleasant; Percussion – Paulinho Da Costa; Piano – Bill Cunliffe; Tenor Saxophone – Harry Allen ; Vocals – Jacintha .

The Girl from Bossa Nova

Wednesday, July 3, 2024

Grant Stewart - Young At Heart


Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2008
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 54:59
Size: 127,0 MB
Art: Front

(7:59) 1. Young At Heart
(8:36) 2. You're My Thrill
(6:13) 3. Roll On
(5:41) 4. Shades Of Jackie Mac
(7:00) 5. Repetition
(6:47) 6. Serenade To Sweden
(6:49) 7. Modinha
(5:52) 8. Jet Stream

Since moving from Toronto to New York at age 19, Grant Stewart has spent 15 years dutifully toiling in the city's jazz underground. Only over the past few years have we begun to hear some worthy examples of the tenor saxophonist's labor a release under his name for Criss Cross, a pair on the same label by Reeds and Deeds (a band he co-leads with Eric Alexander), and a couple on the Video Arts imprint. Although all of these discs are worth your discretionary income and time, 2007's In the Still of the Night (Sharp Nine) was a career-defining recording. From shrewd choices in material, a crack rhythm section, to Stewart's glowing solos, it was one of those rare instances in which everything came together in a near perfect manner. Sharp Nine owner/producer Marc Edelman wasted no time getting Stewart back in the studio, and he wisely decided there was no need to retool a winning formula. On Young at Heart, once again, Stewart is joined by pianist Tardo Hammer, bassist Peter Washington, and drummer Joe Farnsworth. The record is every bit as good as its predecessor in part because of Stewart's ability to sound at ease and establish his own identity on different kinds of material and at various tempos. There's stability and depth to his playing that sets him apart from a host of well-known, thirty-something tenor stylists who blow convoluted to a fault.

The tenor saxophonist's thoughtful interpretations of songs by Duke Ellington, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Neal Hefti, and others are complete in themselves. He lingers on the melodies instead of merely using them as a springboard for improvisation. Throughout the head of the title track, for example, Stewart deliberately moves thorough Hammer's lively accompaniment. A subdued rendition of "You're My Thrill" conveys a quiet resignation. Stewart's style of improvising is fresh, uncluttered, and cliche free. On medium and up tempo tracks like "Roll On," "Serenade to Sweden," "Shades of Jackie Mac," and "Jet Stream," he invariably plays a steady, evenly paced stream of ideas. One favorite device is burrowing into the rhythm section's thrust for an extended period before briefly easing up and gliding over them. Throughout the ballad "Modinha," Stewart's gift for spontaneous melodic invention is more pronounced, and so is his dramatic range. At one important juncture, he falls silent for what feels like an eternity before reaching a brief climax.By David A. Orthmann
https://www.allaboutjazz.com/young-at-heart-grant-stewart-sharp-nine-records-review-by-david-a-orthmann.php

Personnel: Grant Stewart: tenor saxophone; Tardo Hammer: piano; Peter Washington: bass; Joe Farnsworth: drums.

Young At Heart

Alex Sipiagin - Moments Captured

Styles: Trumpet Jazz
Year: 2017
Time: 65:38
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 151,0 MB
Art: Front

(11:09) 1. Evija Bridge
(10:02) 2. Moments from the Past
(10:07) 3. Unexpected Reversal
(11:00) 4. Blues for Mike
( 5:16) 5. Breeze
( 8:39) 6. Bergen Road
( 9:22) 7. Dream

Trumpeter Alex Sipiagin's 12th outing as a leader for the esteemed Criss Cross label finds him returning to the three-horn front line format that he previously explored on the masterful "Destinations Unknown" (Criss Cross, 2011). Returning from that date are tenor giant Chris Potter and the unrelentingly groovy Eric Harland on drums. David Binney is Sipiagin's usual choice of alto players, (having appeared on three of his previous releases,) however this time around Will Vinson completes the horn section on alto sax. The remaining rhythm section roles are filled by keyboardist John Escreet and bassist Matt Brewer, both of whom are heard on electric and acoustic instruments and previously appeared on Sipiagin's 2015 release, "Balance 38-58."

This new music once again reinforces Sipiagin's status as one of jazz's top small group composers, with his distinctive style of intricate, knotty counterpoint, but with this release he explores new sounds within his compositional concept through Escreet's use of the Prophet 6 synthesizer. The instrument's importance in the music is immediately apparent on the opening track, "Evija Bridge." Beneath the complex and rhythmically-shifting horn line, Escreet adds further motion to the piece with wobbling chords from the synth and an extra layer of sound when the composition eventually gives way to a brief, but chaotic improvised section. After nuanced solos by Sipiagin and Vinson a written interlude leads into an astonishing solo from Potter. The solo is notable not only for Potter's signature crafty melodic playing, (which fans of his have come to expect,) but also for the fact Escreet doubles Potter's solo on synth via overdub. As David Adler points out in the excellent liner notes, this choice turns the improvised solo almost into a part of the composition itself, functioning rather like a soli in a big band chart.

Sipiagin adds another new element to his music in the form of Russian vocalist Alina Engibaryan, who contributes and performs the lyrics to the delicate and beautiful title track. The piece is a surprisingly simple ballad and once again features an interesting array of sounds from Escreet's synths. Engibaryan also appears on "Breeze," this time with wordless vocals reinforcing the main melody. The track is yet another interesting departure for Sipiagin in that there are no solos. Instead, the through-composed piece slowly builds with intricately woven horn lines that intersect with the tight, but restrained groove of the rhythm section, forming a subtly shifting and carefully balanced arc.

Many of the compositions mark an interesting step forward for Sipiagin, but there are still firm ties to his post-bop roots. "Bergen Road" finds the sextet on all acoustic instruments for the duration, and most recalls the intense post-bop compositional style and thrilling interplay of "Destinations Unknown." "Mike's Blues," is perhaps the best mix of old and new, with Escreet sounding off on acoustic piano and synthesizers. Sipiagin notes that the only real relation the tune has to a blues is its 12 bar form, and explains that the melody was built around a single phrase from one of Michael Brecker's solos. It is fitting then, that Potter is the first to solo, as he is considered by many to be the spiritual successor to Brecker, and he certainly lives up to that consideration with one of his finest solos on the record.

Overall the album is an interesting and largely very successful step forward for one of jazz's premier composers and improvisers. The Prophet 6 synthesizer offers a limitless range of new textures and colors that Sipiagin seamlessly incorporates into his established compositional palette and further augments the music with occasional vocals. The inclusion of lyrics in only one track feels slightly out of place in the context of the mostly instrumental and conceptually abstract nature of the rest of the music, but as a whole the album is an interesting new perspective on Sipiagin's distinctive compositional style.By Andrew Luhn
https://www.allaboutjazz.com/moments-captured-alex-sipiagin-criss-cross-review-by-andrew-luhn

Personnel: Alex Sipiagin: trumpet, flugelhorn; Will Vinson: alto sax, soprano sax; Chris Potter: tenor sax; John Escreet: Prophet 6 synth, Fender rhodes, piano; Matt Brewer: bass, electric bass; Eric Harland: drums; Alina Engibaryan: vocals

Moments Captured

Diane Reeves - New Morning

Styles: Vocal Jazz
Year: 1997
Time: 74:36
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 172,0 MB
Art: Front

( 2:41) 1. Endangered Species
( 5:26) 2. Old Souls
( 8:38) 3. Body And Soul
( 7:45) 4. Yesterdays
( 5:57) 5. Love For Sale
( 5:58) 6. Nine
( 8:48) 7. Comes Love
( 7:49) 8. Both Sides Now
(11:22) 9. Nothing Will Be As It Was
(10:08) 10. Summertime

Five-time Grammy winner DIANNE REEVES is the pre-eminent jazz vocalist in the world. As a result of her breathtaking virtuosity, improvisational prowess, and unique jazz and R&B stylings, Reeves received the Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Performance for three consecutive recordings a Grammy first in any vocal category.

Featured in George Clooney’s six-time Academy Award nominated Good Night, and Good Luck, Reeves won the Best Jazz Vocal Grammy for the film's soundtrack.

Reeves has recorded and performed with Wynton Marsalis and the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra. She has also recorded with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra conducted by Daniel Barenboim and was a featured soloist with Sir Simon Rattle and the Berlin Philharmonic. Reeves was the first Creative Chair for Jazz for the Los Angeles Philharmonic and the first vocalist to ever perform at the famed Walt Disney Concert Hall.

Reeves worked with legendary producer Arif Mardin (Norah Jones, Aretha Franklin) on the Grammy winning A Little Moonlight, an intimate collection of standards featuring her touring trio. When Reeves’ holiday collection Christmas Time is Here was released, Ben Ratliff of The New York Times raved, “Ms. Reeves, a jazz singer of frequently astonishing skill, takes the assignment seriously; this is one of the best jazz Christmas CD's I've heard.”

In recent years Reeves has toured the world in a variety of contexts including “Sing the Truth,” a musical celebration of Nina Simone which also featured Lizz Wright and Angelique Kidjo. She performed at the White House on multiple occasions including President Obama's State Dinner for the President of China as well as the Governors’ Ball.

Reeves’ most recent release Beautiful Life, features Gregory Porter, Robert Glasper, Lalah Hathaway and Esperanza Spalding. Produced by Terri Lyne Carrington, Beautiful Life won the 2015 Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Performance. Reeves is the recipient of honorary doctorates from the Berklee College of Music and the Juilliard School.In 2018 the National Endowment for the Arts designated Reeves a Jazz Master the highest honor the United States bestows on jazz artists.
https://www.allaboutjazz.com/musicians/dianne-reeves

New Morning

Cory Weeds - Home Cookin'

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2023
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 39:19
Size: 90,7 MB
Art: Front

(5:35) 1. Home Cookin'
(5:00) 2. Corner Kisses
(6:02) 3. Blossoms In May
(5:06) 4. Power Station
(5:03) 5. Thedia
(5:36) 6. Lullaby Of The Leaves
(6:54) 7. Metamorphosis

Cory Weeds a prominent figure in the contemporary jazz scene, has made a remarkable statement with his Little Big Band's latest album Home Cookin'. The session showcases a vibrant collection of compositions/arrangements carefully curated to resonate with his personal journey, including those by Horace Silver, Thad Jones and Oliver Nelson, which are essential to him for a variety of reasons. The band comprises ten of his favorite world-class Vancouver, BC-based musicians.

These previously mentioned influential tracks have been ingeniously adapted to harmonize flawlessly within the intimate framework of the little big band format, beginning with Horace Silver's composition and title track, "Home Cookin." This stylish swinger arranged by Jill Townsend touches all the bases with subtly illustrated music driven by tight ensemble playing interspersed with solid solos from Weeds on tenor sax and Steve Kaldestad alto sax. The other Silver original is "Metamorphosis," on which Townsend has again developed an engaging harmonic chart that shows an understanding of the intricacies of Silver's style, propelled by the drumming of Jesse Cahill. Weeds and Kaldestad are the principal go-to soloists, with baritone saxophonist Dave Say coming along, stuffing his notes with weight and force.

Bill Weeds (Cory's father) wrote the composition "Corner Kisses," and it is a burner with the chart by Bill Coon. Weeds again shows he is an audacious saxophonist, with pianist Chris Gestrin exhibiting resourcefulness in his solo. "Power Station," composed and arranged by pianist Micheal Weiss, is a bouncy number that seems to fit perfectly with a small band as it has an engaging contemporary flair. Both Weeds and Gestrin fill the solo space with new angles of engagement. Thad Jones' composition is entitled "Thedia," and it comes to life with a chart by Bill Coons and Jill Townsend, adding extra depth to the album. Weeds uses the occasion to demonstrate his versatility and his ability to integrate his tenor voice into the little big band sound.

The closer is "Lullaby of the Leaves," arranged initially by Oliver Nelson but adapted and transcribed for the band by Fred Stride. In this wonderfully crafted arrangement, Weeds is out front, flexing his powers and a bustling declaratory spirit. Gestrin's interjection shows he is a compatible and estimable pianist. The album is a testament to the talent of Cory Weeds and his Little Big Band.
By Pierre Girou https://www.allaboutjazz.com/home-cookin-cory-weeds-cellar-music-group

Personnel: Cory Weeds - tenor saxophone; Chris Gestrin - piano; John Lee - bass; Jesse Cahill - drums; Steve Kaldestad - lead alto; James Danderer - tenor saxophone; Dave Say - baritone saxophone; Brian Harding - trombone; Jim Hopson - trombone; Brad Turner - trumpet; Chris Davis - trumpet

Home Cookin'

Tuesday, July 2, 2024

Cory Weeds - What is There to Say?

Styles: Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2021
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 48:51
Size: 113,2 MB
Art: Front

(5:43) 1. At Dawning
(6:12) 2. The Phantom In The In Crowd
(5:58) 3. What Is There To Say
(6:06) 4. Love Is Wild
(4:46) 5. Waltz For Someone Special
(6:33) 6. Alana Marie
(6:35) 7. I Wish You Love
(6:54) 8. There's A Boat Leavin' Soon For New York

Tenor saxophonist Cory Weeds continues to search for new ways to explore and expand his personal musical horizons. In the release What Is There To Say?, Weeds looks to the expression "everything old is new again" and delivers an album backed by a fulsome string section reminiscent of sessions that both Charlie Parker and Bobby Hackett undertook in the 1950s. With sumptuous arrangements from pianist Phil Dwyer, Weeds is provided with a framework with which to explore the four corners of the compositions that were chosen for the recording.

To start this session, Weeds reaches back to the early part of the 20th Century(1906) for a little known song "At Dawning." This lovely winsome ballad is taken in a straight ahead fashion with Weeds keeping close to the melody to focus on the intimacy of the composition. Of the eight compositions recorded, three are originals by Weeds; "Waltz For Someone Special," "Alana Marie"and "Love Is Wild." Each is a diversified tasty morsel of style, substance, and mood, that provides a musical relationship between the strings and Weeds' horn.

An interesting double header is the coupling of Duke Pearson's "The Phantom" with "The In Crowd," a number that was made popular by pianist Ramsay Lewis. The tie that binds these numbers is the intricate rhythmic beat laid down by drummer Jesse Cahill and bassist John Lee. Weeds dances between the two themes with ease while picking up the layers of nuance that exist between them. Dwyer's piano sparkles with characteristic embellishments on the tonal associations with the compositions. To wrap things up, Weeds offers "There's A Boat (Dat's) Leavin' Soon For New York" written by George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin for their ground breaking folk opera "Porgy & Bess." The number swings along gaily with Weeds offering straight melody playing but making every note count. Dwyer takes his solo opportunity to indicate that he is a wellspring of improvisation. This is an attractive addition to the Cory Weeds discography.By Pierre Giroux https://www.allaboutjazz.com/what-is-there-to-say-cory-weeds-with-strings-cellar-music

Personnel: Cory Weeds: saxophone, alto; Phil Dwyer: saxophone, tenor; John Lee: bass; Jesse Cahill: drums.

What is There to Say?

Jo Stafford & Dick Haymes - That's Love

Styles: Vocal, Swing
Year: 2024
Time: 26:34
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 61,9 MB
Art: Front

(1:52) 1. Play A Simple Melody
(2:02) 2. Those Old Piano Roll Blues
(3:08) 3. That Old Black Magic
(2:16) 4. A Little Bit Independent
(2:56) 5. No Other Love (Alternative Version)
(2:10) 6. Driftin' Down The Dreamy Ol' Ohio
(2:18) 7. I've Got You Under My Skin
(1:20) 8. We'll Build A Bungalow
(2:11) 9. Mississippi
(2:20) 10. On The Sunny Side Of The Street
(3:56) 11. Begin The Beguine

Jo Elizabeth Stafford, the third of four sisters, was born November 12, 1917 on a tract of land known as "Lease 35" in Coalinga,California. Her mother, Anna York Stafford,a distant cousin of World War I hero Alvin York was known as one of the finest five-string banjoists in Gainsboro, Tennessee. Her father, Grover Cleveland Stafford, had come West to work in the California oil fields.

Jo's professional debut was with the Stafford Sisters, a trio in which Jo, upon graduation from Long Beach Poly High, joined her sisters Christine and Pauline. They had their own weekly radio show on KHJ radio, were regular performers on David Broekman's California Melodies, the Crockett Family of Kentucky shows, and performed both solo and group vocal work for all the major motion picture studios.

After marriage broke up the Stafford Sisters trio , Jo joined a group called the Pied Pipers, and along with her seven other group members was hired by Tommy Dorsey for the Raleigh-Kool radio program in 1938. After ten weeks with Dorsey the group dissolved, but Jo was hired back with three others once again as the Pied Pipers who sang with Dorsey for three years, recorded "I'll Never Smile Again" with Frank Sinatra, and provided Jo with the opportunity of making her own solo recordings with the Dorsey band. Her first solo recording was "Little Man with a Candy Cigar."

When Johnny Mercer assembled the artists to form Capitol Records in 1943, Jo began a recording career that was to culminate in Columbia Records giving her a Diamond Award as the first recording artist to sell 25,000,000 Records.

After guesting on all the major radio shows, Jo started her own series with the Chesterfield Supper Club, to which was added the Jo Stafford Show for Revere Camera, followed by featured roles on the Carnation and Club 15 Shows.

In 1950, Jo began a series of broadcasts that brought her international recognition. In Hollywood she recorded a weekly fifteen minute Youth Program for the Voice of America to internationally promote the cause of democracy.

Soon she added another weekly half-hour musical show, also recorded in Hollywood, for broadcast over 200,000 watt Radio Luxembourg; Europe's most powerful station. During this period Frank Lee , then British director of Radio Luxembourg said: "In her own quiet way Stafford is selling America to Europe."

In 1952, coinciding with her marriage to arranger/conductor/composer Paul Weston, European demand (and a honeymoon) took them to London, where she headlined the bill at the Palladium and made appearances for the Voice of America in the British Isles and on the continent.

With the advent of television , Jo Stafford guested on all the major variety shows, and in 1954 hosted her own JO STAFFORD SHOW on CBS-TV. Thus when Hollywood decided to commemorate its stars with plaques in the sidewalks of Hollywood Boulevard and Vine Street Jo Stafford was one of the few stars to have three separate plaques, one for records, one for radio, and one for television.

In the late fifties she cut down her activities sharply in order to devote her time to her family, and aside from a few trips to New York to appear on the Garry Moore and Firestone Hour Variety Shows, she did only recordings and TV shows based in Hollywood.

In 1961 the family moved to London for the summer so that Jo could host her final JO STAFFORD SHOW, a syndicated series for the ATV British Network. These shows were seen in this country, Australia, New Zealand and Canada, as well as in the British Isles, and her guests included Bob Hope, Peggy Lee, Ella Fitzgerald and Peter Sellers.

While family commitments precluded her public appearances, Jo did continue to record for Capitol, Dot , and Reader's Digest Records, as well as making religious albums for Corinthian and the World Library of Sacred Music.

Her Hits include: "You Belong to Me", "Timtayshun" , "Whispering Hope" ( with Gordon MacRae ), "Shrimp Boats", "Make Love to Me", "Jambalaya", her album of "American Folk Songs", and the comedy albums made under the name of Darlene Edwards. One of these, "Jonathan and Darlene in Paris", won a Grammy Award in 1960 for Best Comedy Recording. Most of her best known recordings including "The Columbia Hits Collection", are currently in release on the Corinthian Records label.

She is a past-president of SHARE, one of Hollywood's best known charitable organizations, which concerns itself with aiding mentally handicapped children. One of her last public appearances was at SHARE's 25th Anniversary Show, along with Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis,Jr., Johnny Carson and Milton Berle.

Her final public vocal performance was with the Hi Los as part of a Society Of Singers tribute to Frank Sinatra. Her Corinthian recordings continue to enjoy sales throughout the world.
https://www.allaboutjazz.com/musicians/jo-stafford/

That's Love

Sunday, June 30, 2024

Eddie Higgins Featuring Scott Hamilton & Ken Peplowski - A Handful of Stars

Styles: Piano And Saxophone Jazz
Year: 2009
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 71:40
Size: 164,4 MB
Art: Front

(6:16)  1. In  Love In Vain
(6:04)  2. You Leave Me Breathless
(8:20)  3. A Handful Of Stars
(6:42)  4. Come Rain Or Come Shine
(6:14)  5. April In Torino
(8:16)  6. Night Has A Thousand Eyes
(5:39)  7. Flamingo
(6:01)  8. Breezin' Along With The Breeze
(7:17)  9. A Portrait Of Jenny
(5:28) 10. Softly As In A Morning Sunrise
(5:17) 11. All Too Soon

A solid bop-based pianist, Eddie Higgins has never become a major name, but he has been well-respected by his fellow musicians for decades. After growing up in New England, he moved to Chicago, where he played in all types of situations before settling in to a long stint as the leader of the house trio at the London House (1957-1969). Higgins moved back to Massachusetts in 1970 and went on to freelance, often accompanying his wife, vocalist Meredith D'Ambrosio, and appearing at jazz parties and festivals. Eddie Higgins has led sessions of his own for Replica (1958), Vee-Jay (1960), Atlantic, and Sunnyside; back in 1960, he recorded as a sideman for Vee-Jay with Lee Morgan and Wayne Shorter.
By Scott Yanow https://itunes.apple.com/us/artist/eddie-higgins/id80690717#fullText


Personnel: Eddie Higgins – piano; Scott Hamilton - tenor sax; Ken Peplowski - tenor sax; clarinet; Jay Leonhart – bass; Joe Ascione - drums

A Handful of Stars

Masha Ray - Electro Swing

Styles: Swing
Year: 2021
Time: 43:25
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 100,9 MB
Art: Front

(3:14) 1. Hasta La Vista
(3:09) 2. Eye Candy
(3:18) 3. Grannies
(3:01) 4. Like Me
(3:48) 5. All the World's a Stage
(3:21) 6. Keep Falling
(3:44) 7. Ring Ring Ring
(3:08) 8. Drip Drop
(2:59) 9. Let It Go
(3:27) 10. Break the Spell
(3:39) 11. Lucky You
(3:39) 12. Get Lost
(2:52) 13. Hasta La Vista (ROMZN Remix)

The Berlin based singer/producer duo consisting of Masha and Roman Andor met during a Songwriter Camp in Rotterdam.

Combining the singers’ Ukrainian roots and eastern influenced musical education with Roman Andor’s lush trumpet sounds and rich beats, their Vintage Dance sound was born.

Until now Masha Ray collected a decent range of originals and covers that can easily fill a night, ranging from Electro-Swing, Dancehall, Pop to Balkan-Beats and Klezmer referring to Masha’s jewish roots. The instrumentation varies from a performance as a duo with her producer and DJ Roman Andor to an ensemble with drums, bass, wind section and strings.

The mix of the seductively sweet sound of Masha’s siren voice, the snappy-ironic lyrics and the decadent retro production make up the project Masha Ray.https://www.masharaymusic.com/

Electro Swing

Milton Nascimento & Jobim Trio - Novas Bossas

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 54:23
Size: 124.5 MB
Styles: Bossa Nova, Latin jazz
Year: 2008
Art: Front

[3:44] 1. Tudo Que Você Podia Ser
[4:09] 2. Dias Azuis
[3:27] 3. Cais
[3:50] 4. O Vento
[4:38] 5. Tarde
[2:03] 6. Brigas Nunca Mais
[4:54] 7. Caminhos Cruzados
[3:32] 8. Inutil Paisagem
[3:29] 9. Chega De Saudade
[3:50] 10. Medo De Amar
[2:40] 11. Velho Riacho
[6:05] 12. Esperanca Perdida
[3:59] 13. Trem De Ferro
[3:58] 14. Samba Do Aviao

Milton Nascimento: vocals; Daniel Jobim: piano; Paulo Braga: drums; Paulo Jobim: guitar; Rodrigo Villa: bass.

Tom Jobim was the originator of the new Bossa Nova beat in Brazil in the late 50's and it was Joao Gilberto that first mastered the guitar technique to introduce it to the world in 58. They both said that Milton Nascimento was the only singer that could reach the original pitch of the compositions and so it is entirely fitting that he has teamed up here with Tom's son Paulo and grandson Daniel for a recording session to celebrate both Tom Jobim and the anniversary of his invention of the Bossa Nova. Mixing songs by Tom Jobim, Milton Nascimento and Daniel Jobim, this is a true master class in the art of the Bossa and a new milestone in Brazilian music. An important, as well as a sublime release.

Novas Bossas

Madeleine Peyroux - Let's Walk

Styles: Vocal
Year: 2024
Time: 42:13
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 97,3 MB
Art: Front

(4:01) 1. Find True Love
(4:14) 2. How I Wish
(4:52) 3. Let's Walk
(4:52) 4. Please Come On Inside
(4:17) 5. Blues for Heaven
(4:02) 6. Et Puis
(3:35) 7. Me and the Mosquito
(4:12) 8. Nothing Personal
(4:01) 9. Showman Dan
(4:03) 10. Take Care

My focus on albums is to review the music, performance & production. So as far as topics & themes chosen I avoid editorializing since I’m not preoccupied with the artist’s thrust or influence. However, tender subjects can be difficult to navigate since hypocrisy can taint the well-intentioned singer-songwriter. Fortunately, that’s not evident here. These plaintive, lively, well-recorded & deftly handled creative fingertips that touch the surface water seldom venture into dark depths. Madeleine Peyroux cruises through each piece diplomatically, honestly & with beauty & sensibility.

Ms. Peyroux, who I’d seen at The Bottom Line in NYC years ago after hearing her “Dreamland” CD has always been an artist who was a curiosity. Yes, she sometimes has that obvious Billie Holiday with singing lessons tone, but it’s also how she conveys an Edith Piaf classiness. There’s no energetic Joan Armatrading approach, deep tonality of a bluesy-jazz chanteuse like Cassandra Wilson, or sultry deep timbre of Bird York

But what is brought out is the full blossom of 10 unadorned beauties on Let’s Walk (Drops June 28/Just One/Thirty Tigers/42:13) produced by Elliot Scheiner, Jon Herington (guitars/mandolin/marimba sample/synth/vocals/bass) & Ms. Peyroux (vocals/acoustic guitar)

Here, it’s the silkiness of the voice through English ballads, French & Spanish easy listening & melodically solid tunes conveyed with care taken to create something well beyond the mainstream frame. There’s just a marvelous musical sway Madeleine manages to penetrate the seams of a deep ear & travel directly into the heart as well as the soul.

She even has the coolness of a Rickie Lee Jones (“Showman Dan”) with all the old-world spiritual menagerie & finger-popping jive of 52nd Street NYC jazz clubs circa 1945. Madeleine is a study in Style that was hip decades ago but makes you wonder if it ever really left. She doesn’t sound nostalgic at all. She brings the déjà vu.

This is Madeleine’s first album in 6 years & while some may think she’s spread herself thin with all the genres she touches upon the expertise she displays warrants it. She’s daring, diversified & in some spots dare I say, humorous. She’s one of the few artists I’d see again & she doesn’t use laser beams, smoke machines, or 100 dancing girls in flimsy outfits behind her.
https://alleyesmedia.com/lets-walk-madeleine-peyrouxs-most-eclectic-and-courageous-album-to-date-set-for-june-28th-release/

Highlights: “Let’s Walk,” “Please Come On Inside,” “Blues For Heaven,” “Et Puis,” “Me & the Mosquito,” “Nothing Personal” & “Showman Dan.

Musicians: Paul Frazier (bass), Graham Hawthrone (drums/percussion), Andy Ezrin (Hammond organ/vox continental/harmonium/piano/Rhodes/Wurlitzer/orchestral bells), Stan Harrison (clarinets), Catherine Russell, Cindy Mizelle & Keith Fluitt (vocals).

Let's Walk

Swiss Dixie Stompers - A Tribute to Louis Armstrong

Styles: Jazz
Year: 2024
Time: 67:15
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Size: 155,3 MB
Art: Front

(3:17) 1. Mabel's Dream
(2:08) 2. Just Gone
(2:58) 3. Potato Head Blues
(2:51) 4. That's My Home
(4:05) 5. St. Louis Blues
(5:13) 6. Black and Blue
(2:47) 7. Cornet Shop Suey
(4:37) 8. Twelfth Street Rag
(4:10) 9. On the Sunny Side of the Street
(5:52) 10. I Can't Belive That You're in Love with Me
(4:27) 11. Basin Street Blues
(4:27) 12. Mack the Knife
(7:32) 13. Tin Roof Blues
(6:01) 14. Bourbon Street Parade
(6:42) 15. I Surrender Dear

The Biel band is undoubtedly one of the most successful Swiss Trad Jazz orchestras. Here, the Stompers are reinforced by the French trumpeter Irakli and the Bernese pianist Mike Goetz, in the footsteps of the largest jazz musician. The repertoire ranges from the pieces in the early 1920s – King Oliver or the Hot Five and Seven to the show tunes towards the end of Louis’ career. https://downtownrecords.ch/produkt/swiss-dixie-stompers-a-tribute-to-louis-armstrong/

Collective personnel: Irakli de Davrichevy tp, Andre Racine tp, Randy Wirz cl, Willy Gasser tb, Mike Goetz p, Marcel Lack bj, g, Martin Albrecht b, David Elias dr, Kurt Gasser bj, g, Tom “Spats” Langham g, voc.

A Tribute to Louis Armstrong