Aline De Lima - Maritima

Size: 96,2 MB
Time: 41:27
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2011
Styles: Brazilian Jazz, Samba, Bossa Nova, MPB
Art: Front

01. Maritima (3:17)
02. Upaon Açu (3:41)
03. Flor De Brasilia Feat. Flavia Bittencourt (3:30)
04. Fina Flor (3:54)
05. Empty Paradise (4:26)
06. Lua De Janeiro (4:05)
07. Cri Du Coeur (4:10)
08. Infinito Blue (3:21)
09. Madrugada (3:34)
10. Velho Mundo Novo - Paris (3:41)
11. Um Mar De Mar (3:44)

Maritima is Aline de Lima third release, and the follow up to her wonderful album Acai. On Maritima, this Brasil native, decided to produce and write most of the songs. The album was recorded in Paris, Rio de Janeiro and Maranhao, The result is a collection of exquisite and beautiful compositions that reflects the sound and tradition of her city Sao Luis de Maranhao. But Aline has been living in France for several years now, so her music has a distinct French music influence. In “Cri de Coeur”, a song composed for Edith Piaf, Aline sings in French and also plays the guitar.

Besides her soothing, beautiful voice Aline de Lima is also an outstanding songwriter, “Flor de Brasilia”, “Fina Flor”, and “Infinito Blue” are just a few examples of Aline amazing ability to surround us with the beauty of her lyrics. Aline also wrote “Velho Novo Mundo” a beautiful samba dedicated to Paris. There are other influences on Aline’s music, like the reggae rhythms of “Upaon Acu” and “Fina Flor”, the Caribbean sounds of the marimba on “Empty Paradise” and the African rhythms of Cabo Verde on “Um Mar de Mar”. “Lua de Janeiro” and the haunting title track “Maritima” are closer to the sound of Aline de Lima first two albums.

01. Maritima by Aline de Lima Musiciens: Ugo Castro Alves (guitar), Illya Amar (marimba), Luiz Claudio (percussions), Aline de Lima (vocals), Maëva Leberre (cello)
02. Upaon Açu by Aline de Lima Musiciens: Dada Viana (percussions), Rui Mario (keyboards), Aline de Lima (guitar and vocals)
03. Flor de Brasilia by Flavia Bittencourt (3) and lyrics by Aline de Lima (3) Musiciens: Ugo Castro Alves (10 strings guitar, acoustic guitar), Alvaro Lima (bass), Netinho Albuquerque (pandeiro, xequerê and reco-reco), Dada Viana (agogô, zabumba, shakers, berimbau), Flavia Bittencourt (guest singer), Aline de Lima (vocals)
04. Fina Flor by Aline de Lima Musiciens: Rui Mario (acordeon), Alvaro Lima (bass), Isabelle Pares (flute), Illya Amar (marimba), Dada Viana (percussions), Aline de Lima (acoustic guitar and vocals)
05. Empty Paradise by Aline de Lima Musiciens: Ugo Castro Alves (guitar), Dada Viana (percussions), Alvaro Lima (bass), Illya Amar (marimba), Maëva Leberre (cello), Aline de Lima (vocals)
06. Lua de Janeiro by Mario Lucio (1) and Aline de Lima (3) Musiciens: Isabelle Pares (flute), Ugo Castro Alves (guitar), Damilton Viana (percussion), Illya Amar (vibes), Aline de Lima (vocals)
07. Cri du Coeur by Henri Crolla and lyrics by Jacques Prévert (2) Musiciens: Isabelle Pares (flute), Aline de Lima (guitar and vocals), Alvaro Lima (bass), Rui Mario (acordeon), Illya Amar (vibes)
08. Infinito Blue by Aline de Lima Musiciens: Ugo Castro Alves (guitar), Alvaro Lima (bass), Rui Mario (accordion), Netinho Albuquerque (percussions), Dada Viana (percussions), Aline de Lima (vocals)
09. Madrugada by Marcio Faraco (3) and lyrics by Aline de Lima (3) and Marcio Faraco Musiciens: Robertinho Chinês (mandolin), Aline de Lima (acoustic guitar and vocals)
10. Velho Mundo Novo - Paris by Aline de Lima Musiciens: Netinho Albuquerque (samba percussions), Dada Viana (percussions), Ugo Castro Alves (guitar), Aline de Lima (vocals)
11. Um Mar de Mar by Mario Lucio, traduction in french by Africa Nostra Musiciens: Dada Viana (african percussions), Ugo Castro Alves (10 strings guitar and acoustic guitar), Illya Amar (marimba), Aline de Lima (vocals)

Maritima

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Michelle Zangara - Songs Of Blue

Size: 108,4 MB
Time: 47:04
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2013
Styles: Vocal Jazz
Art: Front

01. Under A Blanket Of Blue (4:17)
02. Never Let Me Go (3:24)
03. I'm In Love Again (4:18)
04. Stardust (7:34)
05. On The Street Where You Live (3:14)
06. Born To Be Blue (5:00)
07. The Gentleman Is A Dope (3:14)
08. Meaning Of The Blues (2:56)
09. He's My Guy (4:05)
10. He's Funny That Way (6:00)
11. I'm Hip (2:59)

This "Songs of Blue" Album marks the Second Release by Jazz Vocalist, Michelle Zangara. These songs are the culmination of years of performance and sessioning with New York's greatest musicians. The difficulty of choosing the right musicians and the right songs that would represent her, came from just doing it, over and over at gigs, clubs and parties. During all her hard work and research, one thing overwhelmingly stood out, "I have got to record this, I have got to make a record." Standards are the focus of Michelle's study, and these songs are so special, so rare. they represent the hidden gems in the American Songbook that go unnoticed or are rarely performed. When you have someone like Bruce Barth chomping so beautifully on songs like "He's Funny That Way" or "I'm In Love Again" it makes the recording go so smoothly and takes the session to another level. Ari Roland goes beyond the call of duty in setting a beautiful rhythm and gives Michelle's vocals such gravitas. The Great Charles Goold is holding the tempo so brightly and expertly on "Never Let Me Go" and ever so delicately on "I'm In Love Again." These arrangements were largely due to the Wonderful Jeremy Pelt, who was Producing and also playing on "Under a Blanket of Blue." Ned Goold and Dwayne Clemons provide the final touch of melodic horns which bring drama and finesse to the whole picture as well as THE BLUE. "I am so proud of this release and hope that listeners enjoy these sounds which i offer with all my Heart. I must thank the support from my family especially my Husband and friends who made this possible."

Songs Of Blue

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Dick Hyman & Randy Sandke - Now And Again

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 70:04
Size: 160.4 MB
Styles: Piano jazz, Trumpet jazz
Year: 2006
Art: Front

[6:04] 1. You'd Be So Nice To Come Home To
[7:48] 2. I Thought About You
[6:20] 3. I Want To Be Happy
[2:49] 4. Weatherbird
[4:33] 5. Out Of Nowhere
[4:04] 6. Thinking About Bix
[5:59] 7. Slow River
[4:35] 8. Joy Spring
[3:35] 9. Wild Man Blues
[4:43] 10. Dancing In The Dark
[4:23] 11. The Wizard
[2:51] 12. Two As One
[3:44] 13. Bronco Busters
[4:30] 14. Lucky To Be Me
[3:59] 15. Makin' Whoopee

The duo of pianist Dick Hyman and trumpeter Randy Sandke, who had played together in a variety of settings during the previous 20 years, is a perfect matchup. Both musicians are virtuosos, very adept at 1920s jazz and open to later styles, with Sandke even delving into the avant-garde at times. On this set they explore standards, classic jazz tunes, and a few swinging originals. Rather than re-create recorded solos on "Weatherbird" and "Wild Man Blues" as they have previously, Hyman and Sandke are more spontaneous this time around, playing in their own colorful styles and constantly challenging each other. Plenty of sparks fly, both of the musicians consistently take chances, and the result is creative music within the idiom of classic jazz. Recommended. ~ Scott Yanow

Recording information: Nola Studios, NYX (06/16/2004/06/17/2004).

Dick Hyman (piano); Randy Sandke (trumpet).

Now And Again

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Chaka Khan - I Believe

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 45:41
Size: 104.6 MB
Styles: Funk, R&B, Jazz vocals
Year: 2008
Art: Front

[2:36] 1. Hey Big Spender
[3:02] 2. Hazel's Hips
[3:34] 3. The Best Is Yet To Come
[3:08] 4. Crazy
[3:47] 5. I'm In The Mood For Love
[3:49] 6. Is That All There Is
[3:45] 7. Stormy Weather
[4:00] 8. 'round Midnight
[4:07] 9. Teach Me Tonight
[4:24] 10. To Sir With Love
[3:04] 11. Diamonds Are Forever
[2:34] 12. Goldfinger
[3:44] 13. I Believe

Chaka Khan is one of the world's most gifted and celebrated musicians, with a rich musical legacy, the 10-time GRAMMY® Award-winner is looking forward to a celebration of a lifetime. A songwriter, actor, author, philanthropist, entrepreneur and activist, Chaka Khan has influenced generations of recording artists. She has the rare ability to sing in seven music genres, including R&B, pop, rock, gospel, country, world music and classical. Affectionately known around the world as Chaka, she is revered by millions of fans as well as her peers for hertimeless, classic and unmatched signature music style and ability. The late, great Miles Davis often said, "She [Chaka] sings like my horn." And the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin says, "[Chaka] is a one-of-a-kind, premier vocalist."

Throughout her legendary career, Chaka has released 22 albums and racked up ten #1 Billboard magazine charted songs, seven RIAA certified gold singles and ten RIAA certified gold and platinum albums. Chaka's recorded music has produced over 2,000 catalogue song placements. "I am honored and blessed to celebrate 40 years in music and entertainment" says Chaka. "I am so humbled by the love, support and gracious spirit of my fans worldwide and the continuous support my peers have shown over the years. Throughout my 40-year career, I have been through the fire a few times over and I'm still here as a living testament to God's love and grace. Next year, I will be celebrating 40 years in the business and 60 years on earth, which equals one hundred percent Chaka."

I Believe

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Peter Lipa - Beatles In Blue(S)

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 73:18
Size: 170.1 MB
Styles: Blues-jazz vocals
Year: 2003
Art: Front

[ 4:40] 1. Day Tripper
[ 3:52] 2. Norwegian Wood
[ 4:48] 3. And I Love Her
[ 3:07] 4. Every Little Thing
[ 3:20] 5. Misery
[ 4:17] 6. Got To Get You Into My Life
[ 5:07] 7. Do You Want To Know A Secret
[ 5:13] 8. I Wanna Be Your Man
[ 4:40] 9. The Fool On The Hill
[ 3:00] 10. I've Just Seen A Face
[ 4:26] 11. All I've Got To Do
[ 4:46] 12. I Saw Her Standing There
[ 3:53] 13. P.S. I Love You
[ 3:33] 14. No Reply
[ 2:54] 15. All My Loving
[11:35] 16. With A Little Help From My Friends/Day Tripper [hidden Alternate Take]

The Slovak blues singer Peter Lipa delivers very personal interpretations of 16 songs by the Beatles on this album. Taking a cue from Joe Cocker's famous cover version of "With a Little Help from My Friends," the man and his team of arrangers and musicians set off to create the most far-out renditions they could imagine. On that count they surely succeeded -- if you don't pay attention, some songs will just fly by without you recognizing them. In some cases, as in "Every Little Thing" and "I Wanna Be Your Man," the only trace left of the original is the lyrics -- everything else is new, from the tempo and rhythm (ranging from blues-rock and jazz-funk to jazz ballads) up to chord changes and melodies. And that's where danger points its head. Lennon and McCartney's talent as melodists is immeasurable. Is Lipa better?. That's why, once the novelty factor wears off after a few listens, we're left with weaker songs. But that doesn't mean Beatles in Blue(s) isn't worth your time. If anything else, Lipa's song selection has the merit to jump over the obvious greatest hits of the group and choose instead more obscure songs, perhaps some the singer feels a deeper connection to. And the man does have a seductive voice, free of any accent, gravelly yet flexible and gracious. Highlights include the horn-punched "Day Tripper," "All My Loving" (given a Stéphane Grappelli feel) and "I've Just Seen a Face." ~ François Couture

Live Recording Recorded in 2002.

Peter Lipa (keyboards); Jana Kirschner (vocals); rado tariska (saxophone); Martin gaspar (bass); Robo Rist (drums).

Beatles In Blue(S)

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Tom Harrell - Total

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 39:43
Size: 90.9 MB
Styles: Trumpet jazz
Year: 2007
Art: Front

[7:14] 1. On The Roof
[8:54] 2. The Water's Edge
[5:24] 3. While There's Time
[4:04] 4. Aurora
[8:18] 5. Outdoor Cafe
[5:46] 6. Invitation

Tom Harrell is one of America's renowned jazz trumpeters and composers of our day. He played with such bands and artists as Stan Kenton, Woody Herman, Horace Silver, Sam Jones, Lee Konitz, Phil Woods etc. He was the arrangner for "Time Mirror" on RCA. Much has been said aout Mr. Tom Harrell. He has also recorded with Bill Evans, Dizzy Gillespie, Lionel Hampton and has played in every major jazz club and jazz festival. What this cd offers is that it was his first solo album and has not been available for several years. For any fan or collector of Tom Harrell recordings, this recording is a find.

Total

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Anke Helfrich Trio (Featuring Roy Hargrove) - Better Times Ahead

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 2006
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 51:44
Size: 118,9 MB
Art: Front

(6:26)  1. Movin' In
(6:30)  2. My Ship
(6:36)  3. Der Turm
(7:48)  4. Thanks For Beeing There
(7:03)  5. Better Times Ahead
(4:08)  6. I Mean You
(1:54)  7. Miniatur: An-ma-de
(6:37)  8. Trust & Faith
(4:39)  9. Ask Me Now

Anke Helfrich has been through what presumably must be the usual channels to get where she is right now, meaning that she's studied with some key figures in the music, and the results of that study are here in abundance. As such, the usual terms apply here much as they do with nearly every example of this modern mainstream thing. The music is urbane, harmonically sophisticated, faultlessly articulated, and almost entirely free of the quirks that would make this disc stand out from the crowd. That said, there are exceptions to the rule, not the least of them being the nearly two-minute "Miniatur: An-Ma-De," which finds Helfrich and drummer Dejan Terzic engaged in a free duo in which both musicians prove themselves equal to the very different demands of free playing. The brevity of the piece, however, creates the impression of a track tacked on, despite the fact that it occurs in the middle of the programme; furthermore, that same issue also makes the effort, with its faded ending, sound as if it was treated in such a way so as not to alienate the audience for which the music is otherwise intended. 

There are a couple of Thelonious Monk compositions here, and the fact that Helfrich gets as close to a Monkian spirit as anyone, particularly on her solo reading of "Ask Me Now," is to her credit. Roy Hargrove is featured on four tracks, including Monk's "I Mean You," and with every note he plays, he again shows that his conception is in its way every bit as individual as Blue Mitchell's. Helfrich also gets to show off some of her credentials as an accompanist of no little individuality, and the resulting music raises a smile.
~ Nic Jones  http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=22904#.UopgxOJc_vs

Personnel: Anke Helfrich: piano; Martin Gjakanovski: bass; Dejan Terzic: drums; Roy Hargrove: trumpet, flugelhorn (3,4,6).

Better Times Ahead

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Christina Lux - Coming Home At Last

Styles: Vocal
Year: 2007
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 45:57
Size: 105,7 MB
Art: Front

(3:48)  1. Coming Home At Last
(3:54)  2. To The World
(6:49)  3. Arms Wide Open
(4:46)  4. Abuse
(6:16)  5. It Ain't Mine
(4:37)  6. Man Without A Face
(4:21)  7. Healing Waters
(3:45)  8. Love Is My Religion
(4:01)  9. Endless Fall
(3:36) 10. Late At Night

German-born singer-songwriter Christina Lux makes no bones about wanting to get right into the inner souls and emotions of her listeners: Her songs are direct examples of the hazardous riptides of love and human striving with titles like "It Ain't Mine" and "Abuse." She's been compared to Joni Mitchell and Shawn Colvin, and is a smart (perhaps genius) woman forever balancing her own brilliance and artistic drives with the need to love and be loved, and, most of all, to make music about the struggle to fulfill those needs. Her voice carries a slight Germanic ennui-ridden rasp, making her a bit of a kindred spirit to the cabaret singers of her nation's past, the ones who used to straddle chairs and smoke cigarettes in top hats while singing about love. That rasp, however, is harnessed to some light, gently bouncing soul. As its title might indicate, Coming Home at Last is a haven, a song collection as welcoming and comforting as the shoulder of a childhood best friend w! ho has just returned from a long, long trip.

"No excuses / They just blow my fuses / The body says stop / The mind can't follow / Maybe I'm frightened," goes the opening title track over somber melodic piano. The cabaret lilt is soon swallowed up by light soulful grooves and gentle drums and guitars. "Abuse" opens with the sly shuffle of brushes scraping along the snare drum while Lux goes deep into the harrowing tale of sexual abuse passed along for generations. The clear-eyed approach makes for harrowing listening, but makes the transcendent moments well earned, as on the uplifting sing-along "To the World" or "Late at Night" with its smooth fretless electric-bass meanderings and Lux's resigned declarations: "I know it doesn't help much / To start crying / But it doesn't help it all / To act as if this ain't true / I'm no good / At hiding."

This is music for mornings with coffee, sunshine, and the paper, time for sincere declarations and the openhearted yearning that we experience before the jaded poses of adulthood dim the beauty of the world in our eyes. Lux may make music on the easy-listening side of the tracks, but she doesn't throw away a single lyric; she goes for the tear ducts like a pit bull and fans love her for it. No one goes home without losing a little something along the way. But for each thing gained there's something lost, and in Coming Home at Last Christina Lux lets you know it's okay, you're safe, and you've always been. The hurt, as they say, is all hers. ~ Daily OM    

http://www.sequoiarecords.com/x126cd/Coming+Home+at+Last.html

Coming Home At Last

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Tom Rust & The Malcolm Edmonstone Trio - Saints and Singers

Styles: Vocal Jazz
Year: 2005
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 29:38
Size: 67,9 MB
Art: Front

(2:49)  1. Sunny Side Of The Street
(3:47)  2. I Can't Help It
(3:34)  3. Give Me The Night
(3:41)  4. Under My Skin
(3:05)  5. The Nearness Of You
(4:30)  6. Georgia On My Mind
(2:14)  7. Almost Like Being In Love
(3:26)  8. In The Wee Small Hours
(2:30)  9. Don't Get Around Much Anymore

"Award-winning vocalist Tom Rust presents 'Saints and Singers'. The result of a long-standing collaboration with pianist/arranger Malcolm Edmonstone and his vibrant trio, this release showcases Rust's considerable vocal ability, tackling hip arrangements of Great American Songbook classics with flair and accessible charm."

Tom Rust is eliciting rave reviews on the jazz and soul scene with what has been called his mellifluous tones, mellow, smooth and 'lived-in' voice.

Tom certainly hasn't slacked in his drive to get to the top, Tom is plying his trade, sweating it out in the clubs every week pleasing the crowds with standards, and his own interpretations of modern jazz & soul classic.

Tom says he is often mistaken for someone, or "people think they have met me before", and with his typical dry Mancunian wit he retorts "I used to be a prison warder".

Tom was born in Manchester, starting his musical journey aged 13 in the school band, graduating to the local youth orchestra, even doing his stint on Morecambe Pier !

Tom has always recognised the importance of performing 'live'... "with a live band there is something special, something in the push-and-pull of the band and audience... 'that chemistry' that brings out the best in the music"..."its fantastic that jazz has become 'cool' again thanks to the new wave of jazz and soul music artist's, and that certainly gives me a boost".

Tom Rust is being 'bigged-up' by some of the biggest names in music and the music business, and with credible reviews in everything from the Observer to 'Blues & Soul'
Tom looks set to 'go-all-the-way !' http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/tratmet

Saints and Singers

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Bobby Forrester - Bobby's Blues

Size: 168,8 MB
Time: 73:24
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2013
Styles: Hammond B3 Jazz
Art: Front

01. Cotton Tail ( 5:28)
02. I Had The Craziest Dream ( 6:19)
03. All God's Children Got Rhythm ( 5:03)
04. We'll Be Together Again ( 7:16)
05. Bobby's Blues ( 8:18)
06. Minority ( 7:39)
07. This Is Happiness ( 6:37)
08. I'll Never Smile Again ( 5:56)
09. Don't You Know I Care (10:57)
10. Robbin's Nest ( 9:47)

Bobby Forrester was one of the greats of the Hammond Organ in Jazz and Rhythm and Blues. He worked for years with countless legends of Black music, from Lena Horne to Ruth Brown and everyone in between. However his life was tragically cut short at the age of 54, while he was still an extremely active sideman in the New York City Jazz scene. In 1993 Bobby took his working group into the studio in hopes that a label would pick it up, but to date it had never been released. Here, for the first time ever, is Bobby's self-produced solo album entitled "Bobby's Blues". Features Joey "G-Clef" Cavaseno on alto saxophone, William Ash on guitar, and Clarence "Tootsie" Bean on drums.

Bobby's Blues

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Sharon Carroll - Sharon Carroll & Company: Live At Backstage Pass

Size: 143,1 MB
Time: 62:12
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2013
Styles: Vocal Jazz
Art:n Front

01. Cheek To Cheek (4:12)
02. At Last (5:00)
03. Besame Mucho (5:47)
04. Turn Me On (4:37)
05. Tell Me This Day Won't End (4:05)
06. It Never Enetered My Mind (5:41)
07. Blue Skies (5:17)
08. How Long Has This Been Going On (4:45)
09. Sway (2:34)
10. Body And Soul (5:10)
11. Dream A Little Dream Of Me (4:15)
12. Fever (5:28)
13. Hallelujah (5:16)

Smooth, rich vocals accompanied by first-rate musicians, Sharon Carroll's 2nd release features toe-tapping swing tunes, moving ballads and audience favorites. Backed by world-renowned, 3 time grammy-award winning bass player, Steve Gilmore, twenty year veteran of the army jazz band, master guitarist Steve Cosper, the soulful sounds of one-man band Luke Pinegar on trumpet, piano & snare drum, bi-lingual and multi-media artist Sean Dietrich on piano with seering featured vocals - this live CD includes 13 of the songs this group performed together over two years of concerts in their beautiful home town on Florida's gulf coast.

Using her years of classical vocal training and musical theatre experience - Sharon Carroll eased her way in to the jazz genre alongside some of the best musicians in the South. A torch singer at heart, some of Sharon's best moments come in ballads such as "It Never Entered My Mind," and "Body and Soul," but she maneuvers swing tunes like "Cheek to Cheek" and "Blue Skies" with the effortlessness of some of the greats. One of the highlights of the CD, "Hallelujah" is an audience favorite; haunting and melodic, this final cut will leave you wanting more.

Sharon Carroll & Company: Live At Backstage Pass

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Ruby Braff & Ellis Larkins - Grand Reunion

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 60:49
Size: 139.2 MB
Styles: Piano jazz, Cornet jazz
Year: 1973/2002
Art: Front

[3:35] 1. Fine And Dandy
[6:35] 2. I Want A Little Girl
[4:44] 3. Skylark
[2:29] 4. The Very Thought Of You
[4:37] 5. If Dreams Come True
[3:41] 6. Liza (All The Clouds'll Roll Away)
[4:37] 7. Easy Living
[5:15] 8. Love Walked In
[4:12] 9. Things Ain't What They Used To Be
[5:05] 10. Ain't Misbehavin'
[3:44] 11. Exactly Like You
[5:34] 12. Don't Get Around Much Anymore
[3:35] 13. I'm Confessin' (That I Love You)
[3:00] 14. Don't Be That Way

Digitally remastered by Jon Bates (Downtown Sound & Mix Masters). In 1955 cornetist Ruby Braff and pianist Ellis Larkins recorded a well-received set of duets. In 1972 they had a reunion. Since Larkins is a superior ballad player and accompanist, the emphasis on this date is on slower numbers although Braff does provide some fiery moments. The ten duets include "Fine and Dandy," "Skylark," "If Dreams Come True," "Liza" and "Love Walked In." Twenty years later Braff and Larkins would get together again with equally successful results. ~ Scott Yanow

Recorded at Warp Studios, New York, New York on October 14, 1972.

Ruby Braff (cornet); Ellis Larkins (piano).

Grand Reunion

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Tammy Weis - Where I Need To Be

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 42:38
Size: 97.6 MB
Styles: Easy Listening, Vocal
Year: 2010
Art: Front

[3:51] 1. I Kept Going
[3:03] 2. Everyone But Me
[3:28] 3. I Pretended
[3:33] 4. Don't Want To Fall In Love Again
[4:24] 5. I'll Spend Forever
[4:12] 6. You Said
[5:06] 7. All Because Of You
[4:10] 8. Not That Kinda Girl
[3:13] 9. Where Did The Time Go
[3:52] 10. Help!
[3:43] 11. Heading Home

A stirring collection of vocal numbers from Tammy Weis that draw on her past experiences. 'Where I Need to Be' is a personal reflection of her life in London, having relocated there from her native Canada. It features a stellar line up of musicians including Tom Cawley on piano, Arnie Somogyi on bass and Sebastiaan de Krom on drums.

Joining Weis is her working quartet drawn from the cream of the UK jazz scene including pianist Tom Cawley who also co-wrote most of the material with Tammy. Special guests include pianist Julian Joseph and pedal steel guitar virtuoso B.J. Cole. Weis' delicate vocal style has an intimacy that draws the listener into the personal stories on Where I Need To Be, expressing a sense of subtle vulnerability and of deserved self-assurance in her ability and material. This touching collection of originals (and one cover - Lennon and McCartney's Help, beautifully rendered as a plea for clemency from the troubles the world can throw at us) is Tammy's most personal musical document to date.

Where I Need To Be

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Willie Bobo - Spanish Grease: Uno Dos Tres 1 2 3

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 67:54
Size: 155.4 MB
Styles: Latin jazz
Year: 1994
Art: Front

[2:48] 1. Spanish Grease
[2:41] 2. Hurt So Bad
[2:22] 3. It's Not Unusual
[2:52] 4. Our Day Will Come
[4:07] 5. Haitian Lady
[2:14] 6. Blues In The Closet
[4:09] 7. Nessa
[3:50] 8. Elation
[2:30] 9. It's Not Unusual
[5:14] 10. Blind Man, Blind Man
[2:38] 11. Boogaloo In Room 802
[2:31] 12. Come A Little Bit Closer
[3:28] 13. Goin' Out Of My Head
[2:06] 14. I Remember Clifford
[3:10] 15. Rescue Me
[3:18] 16. Michelle
[2:47] 17. No Matter What Shape (Your Stomach's In)
[3:03] 18. Fried Neck Bones And Some Homefries
[3:14] 19. Ol' Man River
[2:40] 20. One, Two, Three (1-2-3) (Uno, Dos, Tres)
[2:45] 21. Night Song
[3:16] 22. The Breeze And I

Originally released as 2 separate LPs. UNO, DOS, TRES was recorded in 1965. SPANISH GREASE was recorded in 1966.

"In the 60's, Willie Bobo created a bridge between Popular and Latin music using an ensemble of instruments that included electric bass and guitar and no keyboards. He used Popular songs and transformed them with Latin rhythms to create a truly unique sound. This allowed for an entire industry of songs to be created by many great artists and composers. Using Willie as an inspiration, Santana created many of his signature styles from these early recordings. If you listen to the music used in the first Austin Powers movie, you will hear Willie's style being used to signify the 60's culture. This man was never given credit for his contribution to the American Pop Culture of the 60's and beyond." ~Luis Correa/amazon

Spanish Grease: Uno Dos Tres 1 2 3

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Abigail Riccards - When the Night Is New

Styles: Vocal Jazz
Year: 2007
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 56:28
Size: 129,6 MB
Art: Front

(6:26)  1. But Beautiful
(5:34)  2. East of the Sun
(3:33)  3. The Very Thought Of You
(4:19)  4. You Don't Know What Love Is
(3:35)  5. The Thrill Is Gone
(3:56)  6. If I Should Lose You
(6:55)  7. It Might As Well Be Spring
(3:18)  8. I Didn't Know What Time It Was
(4:54)  9. Left Alone
(4:46) 10. Just One Of Those Things
(6:18) 11. I Was Brought To My Senses
(2:47) 12. I'll Be Seeing You

The heralded arrival of any new singing sensation is oftentimes met with caution, but in the case of Abigail Riccards' When The Night Is New the total package her voice and the music is one that truly deserves attention. Riccards has gained notoriety since moving to New York in 2003 as a semifinalist in the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Vocal Competition in 2004, performing with some of the best in jazz, locally and for the troops in the Middle East. 

With a gorgeous voice that's filled with warmth and poise, and a style that equals celebrated peers Jane Monheit and Diana Krall, Riccards sings with genuineness without mimicking the great singers who have come before her. Riccards is in fine company with David Berkman (piano), Ben Allison (bass), Ron Horton (trumpet) and others. The songs consist of standards and popular songs (including a unique cover of Sting's "I Was Brought to My Senses ) with classic jazz vocals in a contemporary setting. Riccards' voice is finely crafted, infused with grace and confidence on the opening ballad "But Beautiful, or bringing some sassy styling on "East of the Sun. The snazzy arranging of some classics also keeps things fresh. The tasty horn section on "East Of the Sun enhances the swing. 

The oriental-pattern of the acoustic bass on "The Very Thought of You gives the tune a new and playful demeanor. Take your pick from the bass/percussion on "If I Should Lose You or the woodwind colors on "I Didn't Know What Time It Was. They all mesh perfectly with Riccards' sumptuous voice. Whether the tunes get down and funky on "It Might As Well Be Spring or heartthrob the feel of the blues on "Left Alone, Riccards sings as if she knows the material intimately. And when it's all said and done the proof exists in the package: the songs, the music and the striking voice of a talented new singer who shines brightly.~ Mark F.Turner  

http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=27406#.Ud8Hp6xn2Vo).

Personnel: Abigail Riccards: vocals; David Berkman: piano, organ; Ben Allison: bass; Matt Wilson: drums; Adam Kolker: woodwinds; Ron Horton: trumpet, flugelhorn; Lage Lund: guitar; Rogerio Boccato: percussion.

When the Night Is New

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Rossano Sportiello, Nicki Parrott, Eddie Metz - Live At The Jazz Corner

Styles: Jazz, Vocal Jazz
Year: 2012
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 73:26
Size: 168,1 MB
Art: Front

( 7:51)  1. Beats Up
(10:03)  2. Gal in Calico
( 5:21)  3. Besame Mucho
( 5:41)  4. Honeysuckle Rose
( 3:52)  5. Li'l Darlin'
( 4:22)  6. Blue and Sentimental
( 6:14)  7. Spanish Eyes
( 6:10)  8. Nocturne
( 5:15)  9. Fantasie Impromptu
( 4:16) 10. Minute Waltz
( 3:58) 11. Fever
(10:18) 12. St. Louis Blues

The Eddie Metz Trio is comprised of three veterans, all from different continents, though all three make their homes in the U.S. Drummer Eddie Metz has played with a host of famous leaders, including Count Basie, Clark Terry, and Woody Herman. Bassist Nicki Parrott has taken her adopted homeland by storm since arriving from Australia, recording a number of her own CDs, duets with others, and appearing regularly as a guest player. 

Italian pianist Rossano Sportiello is recognized for his effortless swing and broad interest in many jazz styles. All three players have also shared time on the jazz party circuit. This CD is made of tunes recorded over two nights at the Jazz Corner in Hilton Head, South Carolina, a nice mixture of standards, jazz classics, and even a few rarely played songs. Tommy Flanagan's "Beats Up," one of many bop vehicles based on "I Got Rhythm" chord changes, proves to be a solid, swinging opener, while the easygoing, foot-tapping take of "Gal in Calico," interrupted only by Metz's drum breaks, is a potent follow-up tune. Parrott has two vocal features, opening the exotic take of "Besame Mucho" with her potent bass chops before she begins her dramatic interpretation, in which the vocal retains its sad air, a point often overlooked by interpreters. 

Parrott entices the listener with her sexy take of Peggy Lee's hit "Fever," adding some playful scat in unison with her bass. Sportiello dazzles with his medley of Chopin masterworks, though he's just as comfortable romping through "Honeysuckle Rose" or taking a leisurely stroll through Count Basie's signature song "Li'l Darlin'" (penned by the prolific Neal Hefti). The trio recalls the tango roots of W.C. Handy's "St. Louis Blues" by incorporating it into their introduction, then alternating between it and straight-ahead swing. Recommended. ~ Ken Dryden  http://www.allmusic.com/album/live-at-the-jazz-corner-mw0002320796

Live At The Jazz Corner

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Maria Neckam - Crossing and Blending

Styles: Vocal
Year: 2005
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 58:48
Size: 134,6 MB
Art: Front

(5:22)  1. Kleine Einsicht
(5:19)  2. Blue Birds
(3:51)  3. Hidden Dragon
(3:41)  4. My One And Only Love
(4:46)  5. November
(5:09)  6. The Music
(3:32)  7. Lovesong (for the crazy)
(5:10)  8. 55
(3:40)  9. When You're Gone
(4:15) 10. Connected
(4:45) 11. My Mind
(4:23) 12. Wer Liebt
(3:44) 13. Crossing & Blending
(1:05) 14. Beauty Everywhere

This is the only album by the ensemble Maryland, fronted by the Austrian singer / composer Maria Neckam with pianist Franz von Chossy, bassist Valdi Kolli and drummer Uli Genenger. A few guest musicians participate on some of the tracks. The album was recorded in Netherlands where Neckam was studying at the time vocal Jazz at the Conservatory of Amsterdam. This is her debut recording, a collection of fourteen songs, twelve of which are her compositions and lyrics, one is composed by the pianist to her lyrics and one is a standard. All the lyrics are in English, except in one case, where a poem in German is recited, rather that sung. From the very opening note of this album the listener enters a world of music, which is utterly Maria Neckam´s universe, distinctive, unique and completely irresistible. 

Amazingly she manages to set her musical framework at such an early stage of her career. Although still lacking the experience and readiness of a mature artist, her amazing talent and youthful life-force overcome any possible traps and blunders. The album is so amazingly “complete”, full of superb music and heartfelt performances, that all the minor flaws, which are surely present herein, are completely pushed aside and become meaningless in view of the enormous amount of aesthetic pleasure, elegance and intelligence. Neckam´s idiosyncratic style reminds me of the young Annette Peacock, both in her compositional approach and some of her vocal technique. 

Singer / composer Lauren Newton also comes to mind, especially on Neckam´s less structured pieces. Neckam´s music shows a wide range of influences and empathies, resulting in an enormously versatile scope of stylistic approaches on this album. Of course a debut album is often characterized by the strong desire to “spill out” vast amount of music, which has been accumulating for a very long time. Although such lack of focus might become a major problem for some artists, in the case of this album the versatility simply serves as an opportunity to show the listener how accomplished Neckam really is. Firmly based in the Jazz tradition, the music amalgamates a plethora of different influences, such as World Music, European neo-romanticism, traditional and experimental vocalese, and many others. Of course Neckam´s charm is all about taking all these different elements and making them completely and uniquely her own. As far as debuts go, this is definitely one of the most impressive ones that a music connoisseur might come across. 

Although it had little media coverage and no real impact at the time of its release, it is nevertheless a superb piece of music, which deserves to be re-discovered, especially now in view of Neckam´s more recent success. A charming fruit, somewhat un-ripe and yet already delicious  a gem! ~ Adam Baruch   http://www.marianeckam.com/adam-baruch-reviews-crossing-and-blending

Crossing and Blending

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Ken Peplowski - Maybe September

Styles: Jazz
Year: 2013
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 63:02
Size: 144,3 MB
Art: Front

(4:58)  1. All Alone by the Telephone
(7:33)  2. Moon Ray
(5:30)  3. Always a Bridesmaid
(6:43)  4. (Now and Then There's) A Fool Such as I
(4:47)  5. Romanza
(7:58)  6. Caroline, No
(1:57)  7. For No One
(6:47)  8. I'll String Along With You
(5:23)  9. Main Stem
(8:15) 10. Maybe September
(3:05) 11. Without Her

Ken Peplowski is reunited with his NYC working group that includes Ted Rosenthal on piano, Martin Wind on bass and Matt Wilson on drums. Peplowski takes us through a series of 'heartbreakers' from Lennon/McCartney's For No One to Irving Berlin's All Alone. He also includes a piano and clarinet duo of Poulenc's Romanza and a jazz rendition of Beach Boy Brian Wilson's Caroline, No. In total, there are 11 lesser heard tunes all recorded 'live' to 2-track in the studio. The entire album was made in about 3 hours with the great Malcolm Addey at the mixing console. ~Editorial Reviews  

http://www.amazon.com/Maybe-September-Ken-Peplowski/dp/B00D4ABUUM

Maybe September

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Kip Traylor - A Lot Of Life To Live

Size: 82,1 MB
Time: 35:33
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2012
Styles: Vocal Blues, Pop Blues, Pop
Art: Front

01. Lonely Avenue (3:12)
02. Make Your Move (2:57)
03. Waiting For You (3:34)
04. Learning You (2:51)
05. Beautiful Afternoon (3:21)
06. Love Song (2:57)
07. What Makes You You (2:59)
08. Back In Bed (3:21)
09. Losing Control (3:21)
10. The Last Time (3:10)
11. A Lot Of Life To Live (3:46)

From Montgomery’s Best Kept Secret to multiple Grammy nominations, Kip Traylor’s catchy songwriting, powerful vocal tone and honest lyrics are capturing listeners from coast to coast. Igniting with her humble beginnings at local venues and open mic nights, this up and coming singer songwriter has taken the blues world by storm with her 2012 LP, A Lot of Life to Live. Now back on the road and preparing to hit the studio again, Traylor is poised to turn herself into the genre’s hottest rising star.

Originally founded as a duo act, Traylor immediately drew the eyes and ears of her local scene, landing in the Montgomery Advertiser as the city’s Best Local Club Act in 2005. Following more local gigging and an EP release, she hit the road for a series of regional tours throughout the Southeast, then unveiling her debut acoustic record, The Live Sessions in 2008 and Beautiful Accident in 2010.

After teaming up with producer and co-owner of Great Moments In Music (GMIM Records) Tom Doane, Traylor hit the studio to record her latest full-band project, A Lot of Life to Live in 2012 .Joined by an all-star cast of keyboardist Coleman Woodson III, bassist Freddie Smith, drummer Josh Oswald and saxophonist Walt Hines, the album took shape while elevating her writing and arranging skills to new heights. Driven by early success of the title track, A Lot of Life to Live landed four 2012 Grammy nominations including Best Album, Best Blues Album, Best Vocal and Best Song.

Influenced by a wide variety of masterful songwriters such as John Mayer, Etta James, Ray Charles, Norah Jones, Adele, Ben Harper and others, Traylor crafts a sultry brand of bluesy rock with jazzy punctuation. The passion bleeds through in each and every track of the album, powered with personal, yet relatable lyrics which she masterfully expresses to her listeners.

A Lot Of Life To Live

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Jesse Peters - Face Time

Size: 109,2 MB
Time: 47:16
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2011
Styles: Vocal Jazz, Soul Jazz
Art: Front

01. That Ain't Today (2:53)
02. Rockin Daddy (Feat. Dave Babcock) (4:27)
03. It's Over Now (3:51)
04. Don't Go To Strangers (3:58)
05. Change The World (3:53)
06. Face Time (Feat. Paul Thorne) (2:56)
07. PYT - Working Day And Night (4:14)
08. His Eye Is On The Sparrow (4:49)
09. Fragile (5:12)
10. Songbird (4:33)
11. I Got A Woman (3:21)
12. More (Bonus Track) (3:04)

Jesse Peters’ newest recording, Face Time, is jazz-edged-soul, embracing a vocal driven mix of original and standard tunes filled with energy, innovation, scope, and range. From an ethereal falsetto that captures the fragility and depth of vocal colour (Songbird, It's Over Now) to a cheeky commentary on our all-consuming digital world (Face Time); from the classic swing Jesse was known for as the vocalist/songwriter/pianist of the Peters Drury Trio (Don't Go To Strangers, That Ain't Today, More) to energetic romps that are tributes to Ray Charles and, yes, the King of Pop himself, Jesse has crafted a set of tunes that beg to be listened to with only the finest of wine, or an excellent scotch, in hand. Retro, classic, recorded live-off-the-floor, Face Time, is a tribute to Jesse's jazz and soul music influences, showing where this jazz vocalist has taken his talent over the years.

Face Time

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