Artistry Jazz Group - Vivianity: The Favourite Song Collection Feat Vivian Buczek

Size: 150,3 MB
Time: 64:56
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2013
Styles: Vocal Jazz
Art: Front

01. It's Alright With Me (4:35)
02. You're Gonna Hear From Me (4:26)
03. Changing My Tune (5:27)
04. Lost In A Summer Night (6:04)
05. I Happen To Be In Love (6:04)
06. Like Young (4:17)
07. The Man That Got Away (5:09)
08. At Long Last Love (4:16)
09. Too Darn Hot (4:09)
10. Last Night When We Were Young (5:10)
11. What Is That Thing Called Love (4:38)
12. As You Are (6:30)
13. Boplicity (4:04)

After three highly praised albums it’s time for Artistry Jazz Group’s first compilation cd Vivianity – with all the best vocal songs from the group’s previous productions. A highlight for everyone who loves jazz enriched by song.

Artistry Jazz Group, with pianist Jan Lundgren, guitarist Jacob Fischer, Hans Backenroth on double bass, Johan Löfcrantz Ramsay, drums, and vocalist Vivian Buczek, is certainly part of the Swedish “jazz wonder” that continues to deliver high quality jazz and strong profiles giving echo around the world. Now Artistry Jazz Group release their forth album Vivianity with all vocal numbers from their previous productions.

The new album is yet another gem for everyone who appreciates virtuous jazz, and at the same time it adds an extra dimension for music lovers who prefer when text and song enhance the musical experience. Not least through Vivian Buczek, who with her exceptional breadth and feeling for the jazz idiom masters the whole range from ballads to scat singing. After acclaimed performances on the previous albums We Like Previn, Too Darn Hot and Tribute! Vivian here gets to make her beautiful voice heard on each song – Vivianity.

Vivianity

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Eric Van Aro - Obsession EP

Size: 68,7 MB
Time: 29:31
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2013
Styles: Vocal Jazz
Art: Front

01. I'm Not Anyone (Feat. Fabio Gianni) (4:38)
02. Since I Fell For You (Feat. Fabio Gianni) (4:40)
03. Rain (Feat. Fabio Gianni) (4:12)
04. Ordinary Fool (Feat. Fabio Gianni) (3:40)
05. With You I'm Born Again (Feat. Sheri Pedigo & Fabio Gianni) (3:40)
06. Obsession (Feat. Alex Battini De Barrerio, Sebastiano Mambretti & Fabio Gianni) (4:13)
07. Dancing To The Rhythm (Feat. Iguazu Acoustic Trio) (4:25)

There is a striking symbiosis here between vocalist Eric van Aro and pianist Fabio Gianni, who also co-arranged Obsession. Together, they transform a clutch of pop songs in new jazz favorites and uncover a lost classic or two – all while working with an endlessly fascinating unity of vision. They are, even when working with a few choice collaborators late in the proceedings, joined at the musical hip.

Gianni’s darkly resonant instrument, for instance, sets a plaintive atmosphere for van Aro’s Johnny Hartman-esque entrance on the moving Sammy Davis Jr.-by-way-of-Paul Anka gem “I’m Not Anyone.” But van Aro doesn’t stay in one place for long, exploring the empowering lyric with an emotional sweep that shakes off his initial sad resignation in favor of a hard-eyed determination. Meanwhile, there’ Gianni’s solo. Rather than underlining that anthem-like bravado, it instead strikes a more panoramic stance – adding a sense of twinkling reminiscence that offers van Aro a chance to start a slow burn all over again once he returns to the microphone. He then ends “I’m Not Anyone” with another thunderous assertion, before a final delicately touching turn from Gianni.

Obsession provides van Aro with some intriguing choices in material, beginning with Dr. John’s deep cut “Rain” (from 1978’s City Lights) – which finds the singer growling to great effect. But even where the album might feel familiar, as on Buddy Johnson’s “Since I Fell For You,” van Aro mixes things up: He and Gianni give the track a late-night saloon feel, more controlled and ultimately more filled with hurt than most who approach this familiar lyric. Paul Williams’ “Ordinary Fool,” the last of the EP’s duo recordings, is given a spritely feel – like these two are skipping in between the raindrops.

Van Aro and Gianni are then joined by guest vocalist Sheri Pedigo for a tender reworking of the 1979 hit “With You, I’m Born Again” from Billy Preston and Syreeta Wright. Gianni provides a reserved accompaniment, without the period-piece strings that gave the original an overly sentimental feel – and this track is utterly reborn. Percussionists Alex Battini de Barreiro and Sabastiano Mambretti then add an insistent energy to the title track, opening the door for a jazzy performance from van Aro that has all of the inventiveness of classic vocalese.

Finally, van Aro is joined by the Latin-flavored Iguazu trio for a similarly engaging take on Stevie Wonder’s “Dancing in Rhythm” to close out Obsession, a highly recommended effort co-produced by van Aro and Antonio Chindamo. ~by Nick DeRiso

Obsession

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Duke Robillard - Swing

Bitrate: 320K/s

Time: 58:02

Size: 132.8 MB

Styles: Swing/blues

Year: 1988

Art: Front

[4:34] 1. Cadillac Slim

[4:21] 2. Jumpin' Blues

[3:33] 3. I'll Always Be In Love With You

[4:06] 4. Jim Jam

[8:02] 5. What's Your Story, Morning Glory

[3:10] 6. Zot

[5:40] 7. Exactly Like You

[3:13] 8. Stitt's Bitts

[5:43] 9. Shufflin' With Some Barbeque

[4:47] 10. Durn Tootin'

[2:54] 11. You'd Better Change Your Ways

[7:53] 12. Glide On

While he makes his fame and fortune cutting blues-rock, guitarist Duke Robillard periodically issues albums of stylish, restrained, subtly swinging jazzy material. This date includes guest appearances from swing-influenced contemporary instrumentalists such as tenor saxophonist Scott Hamilton and guitarist Chris Flory, who teams with Robillard on "Glide On" for some excellent twin guitar fireworks. Otherwise, it's Jim Kelly who matches licks with Robillard on "Jim Jam" and "What's Your Story, Morning Glory." It's relaxed, elegant music, with just enough grit to keep things interesting. ~ Ron Wynn

Duke Robillard (vocals, guitar); Jim Kelly, Chris Flory (guitar); Scott Hamilton (tenor saxophone); Mike LeDonne (piano, organ); Phil Flanigan (bass); Chuck Riggs (drums).

Swing

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Calvin Keys - An Evening With Calvin Keys (Double CD)

Bitrate: 320K/s

Time: 101:55

Size: 234.4 MB

Styles: Guitar jazz

Year: 2003

[16:30] 1. Invitation

[ 9:44] 2. Hi Fly

[ 4:53] 3. Chitlins Con Carne

[10:28] 4. Secret Love

[ 6:21] 5. I Remember Clifford

[ 6:00] 6. The Theme

[ 9:04] 7. Bus Scene

[ 6:09] 8. Stella By Starlight

[10:38] 9. My Funny Valentine

[ 5:54] 10. All Blues

[ 6:57] 11. Spring Can Really Hang You Up The Most

[ 9:10] 12. If I Should Lose You

Born in Omaha, Nebraska in 1943, Calvin Keys' musical legacy began early with his father Otis Keys, a man who is still described as Omaha's greatest natural drummer. Early on in his own musical career Calvin auditioned and played guitar with such greats as Eddie Cleanhead Vinson and bassist Gerald Holts. At age 17, he first hit the road with sax player Little Walkin' Willie and then followed in his father's footsteps to Kansas City, where his first gigs were with Preston Love of the Count Basie Orchestra and The Frank Edwards Organ Trio. That foundation led to working with one of the greatest organ trios of all time The Jimmy Smith Trio, and then on to working with several other organ greats: Jimmy McGriff, Jack McDuff, and Groove Holmes.

Recorded at the Maybeck Recital Hall, Berkeley, California.

Calvin Keys (guitar); Tim Hauf (bass); Gaylord Birch (drums).

An Evening With Calvin Keys   Vols 1 & 2 in 1 link.

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Laurie Wheeler - Twilight

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 37:20
Size: 85.5 MB
Styles: Jazz vocals
Year: 2007
Art: Front

[3:12] 1. A Little Taste
[4:04] 2. You're In Love With Someone
[3:43] 3. Twilight
[2:37] 4. Give Me The Simple Life
[3:10] 5. Soul Eyes
[2:54] 6. Easy To Be Happy
[5:35] 7. Ain't No Use
[4:08] 8. I Thought About You
[4:40] 9. Four
[3:12] 10. Take The Keys To My Heart

Laurie Wheeler is emerging as a new force and style among modern female vocalists. A veteran of jazz for over 20 years, her natural vocal ability landed her the lead singer position in the vocal groups "Footprints" and Vocal Point." She now fronts her highly successful jazz vocal trio "Nash deVille," and recently was named the #7 Female Singer on the 67th Annual DownBeat Reader's Poll. Laurie has performed with Louis Bellson, Buddy DeFranco, Charlie Byrd, Bobby Peterson, and most recently with mentors and friends, Michael McDonald and Larry Carlton.

Recording information: Broken Wave Studios, Glendale, CA; Fool On The Hill Studios, Nashville, TN.

Twilight

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La Velle & Rhoda Scott - Soul Sisters Come Together In Paris

Styles: Jazz
Year: 2011
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 52:29
Size: 120,8 MB
Art: Front

(6:13)  1. Compared to What
(6:37)  2. Sunny
(6:31)  3. Come Together
(6:24)  4. Lord, I Want to Be a Christian In My Heart Amen
(6:30)  5. Bernie's Tune
(6:59)  6. Do Nothing Till You Hear from Me
(7:47)  7. Lord, I Want to Be a Christian In My Heart He Keeps On Doing Great Things
(5:24)  8. With a Little Help from My Friends

Un des projets les plus beaux de l année. Un CD unique issu de 3 concerts incroyables enregistrés en 2008 à Paris. Rhoda SCOTT, la fameuse organiste aux pieds nus qui fut découverte par Count Basie et qui se produira la première fois en France en 1968 à la demande d Eddy Barclay et de son complice Raoul Saint-Yves, toujours à l affut de nouveau talent... et La VELLE, de son vrai nom Lavelle McKinnie Duggan, chanteuse de Rythm N Blues et de Gospel, prodige musicale (à l âge de onze elle est la plus jeune étudiante du Conservatoire National de Chicago), se réunissent pour la première fois. Leurs origines communes, leur swing naturel et leur foi font de cette rencontre un événement sans précédent dans leurs carrières respectives. Des reprises des Beatles, aux balades jazz en passant par l energie du Gospel. Rhoda SCOTT, la reine de l orgue Hammond qui a enregistré à ce jour une cinquantaine d albums et La VELLE, qui possède une voix unique sur quatre octaves reconnaissable dès la première note. Deux stars qui nous donnent le meilleur d elles mêmes. Elles sont tout simplement sublimes. http://www.amazon.fr/Soul-Sisters-CD-La-Velle/dp/B002JRR6N6

One of the most beautiful of the year projects. A single CD from 3 amazing concerts recorded in 2008 in Paris. Rhoda Scott, the famous organist barefoot which was discovered by Count Basie and will happen the first time in France in 1968 at the request of Eddie Barclay and his partner Raoul Saint-Yves, still on the lookout for new talent .. . and La VELLE, whose real name Lavelle McKinnie Duggan, singer Rhythm N Blues and Gospel, musical prodigy (at the age of eleven she was the youngest student at the National Conservatory of Chicago), met for the first time. Their common origins, their natural swing and faith make this meeting an unprecedented event in their respective careers. Covers of Beatles to jazz walks through the energy of the Gospel. Rhoda Scott, the Queen of the Hammond organ that has so far registered about fifty albums and La VELLE, which has a unique voice four octaves recognizable from the first note. Two stars that give us the best of themselves. They are simply sublime. ~ Translate by google  http://www.amazon.fr/Soul-Sisters-CD-La-Velle/dp/B002JRR6N6

Soul Sisters Come Together In Paris

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Fay Claassen - With A Song In My Heart

Styles: Vocal
Year: 2000
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 64:28
Size: 147,6 MB
Art: Front

(5:24)  1. I'll be seeing you
(5:20)  2. Cancao no Paiol em Curitiba
(3:33)  3. He was too good to me
(4:26)  4. Without a song
(4:28)  5. A flower is a lovesome thing
(4:49)  6. If I ever loose my faith in you
(4:22)  7. Everything I love
(3:44)  8. Nem um Talvez
(4:58)  9. Pannonica
(6:23) 10. Everybodys song but my own
(4:31) 11. Little girl blue
(4:14) 12. Blue alert
(3:46) 13. This is new
(4:46) 14. With a Song In My Heart
(3:55) 15. For all we know

Fay Claassen was born in 1969 in Nijmegen The Netherlands. Before she devoted herself to singing, she followed courses at the academy of ballet. Subsequently she studied at the academy of acting after which she finally opted for singing. She completed her study at The Royal Conservatory in The Hague in Holland with remarkable distinctions for jazz-timing and vocal improvisation. Fay Claassen graduated in 1997 from the Royal Consevatory of The Hague with two special endorsements for Jazz timing and Jazz improvisation. Some of her teachers were: Rita Reys, Deborah Brown, Frans Elsen, Racheal Gould, James McGray, Marjory Barnes and Judy Niemack. After her conservatory period she appeared as vocalist in different groups and toured through different countries in Europe. Her first recording ‘Simply Be’ was released with a band together with the saxophone player Carolyn Breuer. She was guest in different groups ‘The Tony Overwater V-Group’, Loet van der Lee Group, ‘Big Moves’ and ‘The Amsterdam Jazz Quintet’. With this last formation she recorded on the album ‘Playground’. Just after the release of the first album of her own she was asked to be part of a tour through Japan with ‘The Historical Dance Theatre’ in which she performed as a dancer and singer After her conservatory period she appeared as vocalist in different groups and toured through different countries in Europe. Her first recording ‘Simply Be’ was released with a band together with the saxophone player Carolyn Breuer. She was guest in different groups ‘The Tony Overwater V-Group’ and ‘The Amsterdam Jazz Quintet’. With this last formation she recorded the album ‘Playground’.

In 1999 Fay Claassen was chosen by ‘The Jazz Impuls Foundation’ as their first selected musician. This foundation supports and promotes jazz musicians deserving wider recognition and produced in that year with Fay Claassen her first own album (‘With a Song in my Heart’ CHR 70096). This album almost instantly nominated for an Edison-Award and was received with highly enthusiastic reviews. It was the first step to a real break-through.

In 2000: Fay featured on the North Sea Jazz Festival (The Hague) with the Tony Overwater group. She became a teacher at the Conservatory of Rotterdam (CodArt).

In 2001: her second album was recorded in New York (‘Rhythms and Rhymes’BMCD 380) with: Toots Thielemans (mouth hrp), Kenny Werner (piano) and Mike Stern (Guitar). A few months later she recorded ‘Specialy Arranged for Fay’ (BMCD 381) with the Millenium Jazz Orchestra, conducted by: Joan Reinders. Conductor and composer Joan Reinders is responsible for the beautiful work on this album. Fay taught at several workshops and Master Classes at Conservatories throughout the country. In 2001, as the only European vocalist, she was chosen and invited by the Selection Committee of The International Association of Jazz Educators (IAJE) to perform in Los Angeles in 2002. She appeared in several concerts in the ‘Music Village’ jazzclub in Brussels with the Ivan Paduart Trio.

In 2002: Fay toured through China with Ivan Paduart and she was engaged in her promotional tour after the release of her 2nd CD ‘Rhythms and Rhymes’. Fay toured through Portugal and featured on the Jazz Festival of Funchal ( Madeira). This year she was asked to teach at the conservatory in Porto (Portugal). Fay performed in many theatres and clubs in European countries, and the U.S.A.

In 2003: she is invited on Jazz Festivals among which The North Sea Jazz Festival, where she performed for the third time. 2002 was also the year in which she performed as a guest on the Life CD recording ‘A night at the Music Village’ (Brussels) BMCD395, with Ivan Paduart and his trio, other guests were: Toots Thielemans (mouth harp), Bert Joris (trompet) and Toon Roos (saxophone). Fay participated in the Jazz Concours of Juan Les Pins (France), toured with Ivan Paduart through Belgium, the Netherlands, France and Madeira. She participated in the Robeco Jazz Concert Series in the Concert Hall of Amsterdam with Ivan Paduart. Other guests were: Marjory Barnes and vocal group’ Jazzed to the Max’ Fay constantly proves to be an all-round performer who is constantly widening her horizons. The concert in 2003 at the Museum of Altenburg (Leipzich), where she interpreted poems of Lucebert, show this exploration urge..

In 2004: Fay hastoured through Portugal and France. She participated in the cd tour of Ivan Paduart Sextet in France and Luxembourg. Was the star guest at a concert in L 'Opera de Lyon with David Linx and Diederik Wissels. Performed at all the main city theatres of the Netherlands in Duo concerts with pianist Marc van Roon. This performance was part of the concert series of Jazz Impuls. In these series she also toured with the Millenium Jazz Orchestra, conducted by Joan Reinders.

Fay in 2005: is performing during a cd tour, ‘A Tribute to Chet Baker’ with Jan Menu, Hein van de Geyn and John Engels. The CD release of ‘A Tribute to Chet Baker’ is expected in September 2005. She performed as special guest on the extraordinary CD ‘One Heart, Three voices’ from David Linx and Diederik Wissels. Fay is touring in Portugal, Sweden aswell as in France and Belgium. In the last two countries she will contribute to the David Linx, Diederik Wissels and Maria Pia de Vito project. They will be promoting the beautiful album they recorded together:‘One Heart, Three voices’.

Apart from the special sound of her voice Fay stands out as a singer being able to improvise as an extremely versatile instrument. During the last few years Fay is considered by many jazz-critics as worlds fastest upcoming jazz vocalist and she recorded with many very well known jazz musicians as Mike Stern, Kenny Werner, Toots Thielemans, Joe Locke and Steve Davis on her second album ‘Rhythms and Rhymes’, An album with a mix of Jazz and World Music. And Bert Joris, Barry Harris, Marc van Roon and others. The last few years she has been touring with her band and now she is working on her new repertoire of the next Cd: ‘Return to Paradise’ which will be released soon. Fay is asked to teach jazz-singing in vocal improvisation programs at three different conservatories in different countries. One of them is in Porto (Escola Superior de Musica e Artes do Espectaculo), where she succeeded Maria João. She teaches master classes for second phase students on the Conservatory of Amsterdam and The Hague and is a regular teacher at The Rotterdam conservatory. http://musicians.allaboutjazz.com/musician.php?id=12071#.Uo5jtuJc_vs

With A Song In My Heart

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Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong - The Complete Ella and Louis on Verve (Disc 1), (Disc 2) And (Disc 3)

Styles: Vocal Jazz
Year: 1997
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 75:37 (CD1)
Size: 173,1 MB (CD1)
Time: 76:49 (CD2)
Size: 176,6 MB (CD2)
Time: 58:10 (CD3)
Size: 133,2 MB (CD3)
Scans: Front

Disc 1

(3:47)  1. Can't We Be Friends?
(6:17)  2. Isn't This A Lovely Day?
(3:42)  3. Moonlight In Vermont
(4:40)  4. They Can't Take That Away From Me
(4:18)  5. Under a Blanket of Blue
(5:08)  6. Tenderly
(4:34)  7. A Foggy Day
(3:35)  8. Stars Fell on Alabama
(5:54)  9. Cheek To Cheek
(5:43) 10. The Nearness of You
(6:37) 11. April In Paris
(5:01) 12. Don't Be That Way
(3:59) 13. Makin' Whoopee
(3:50) 14. They All Laughed
(2:28) 15. Comes Love
(5:57) 16. Autumn in New York

Disc 2

(8:44)  1. Let's Do It (Let's Fall in Love)
(5:16)  2. Stompin' at the Savoy
(4:47)  3. I Won't Dance
(4:15)  4. Gee Baby, Ain't I Good to You
(4:15)  5. Let's Call the Whole Thing Off
(7:40)  6. These Foolish Things
(3:12)  7. I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm
(4:21)  8. Willow Weep for Me
(3:28)  9. I'm Putting All My Eggs in One Basket
(3:56) 10. A Fine Romance
(3:45) 11. I'll Wind
(4:01) 12. Love Is Here to Stay
(4:20) 13. I Get a Kick Out of You
(7:10) 14. Learnin' the Blues
(3:53) 15. You Won't Be Satisfied (Until You Break My Heart)
(3:39) 16. Undecided

Disc 3

(10:53)  1. Porgy and Bess: Overture
( 5:01)  2. Summertime
( 4:39)  3. I Wants to Stay Here
( 4:03)  4. My Man's Gone Now
( 3:54)  5. I Got Plenty O' Nuttin'
( 3:00)  6. The Buzzard Song
( 5:30)  7. Bess, You Is My Woman Now
( 6:36)  8. It Ain't Necessarily So
( 2:02)  9. What You Want Wid Bess?
( 4:50) 10. A Woman Is a Sometime Thing
( 2:02) 11. Oh, Doctor Jesus
( 2:37) 12. Oh Bess, Oh Where's My Bess?
( 2:57) 13. Oh, Lawd, I'm on My Way!

Almost all of these summit meetings have been in print virtually since CDs first appeared in listeners' lives, but never in one package. Here, you get all of Ella and Louis, the double-album sets Ella and Louis Again and Porgy and Bess, and two live tracks recorded at the Hollywood Bowl in 1956  all in an unusual three-CD album that partially unfolds into an accordion-file (what will Verve's inventive packaging wizards think of next?). There are two booklets, one of which contains a rare recent interview with producer Norman Granz, and the other the notes from the original albums. Of the two wonderfully relaxed Ella and Louis albums, with their Oscar Peterson-driven rhythm quartets, the sequel seems a more diverse, more involving collection, although Satch doesn't play as much trumpet on Again as he does on the first album. 

Also, the two go it alone on several tracks, but one is not at all inconvenienced by the inclusion of solo gems like Armstrong's sly catalog of intercouplings on "Let's Do It." The Porgy session is an entirely different creature a big, formal presentation with Russ Garcia's lush yet atmospheric and even powerful orchestrations, reverberant sound (normally a Granz no-no), grandly moving vocal performances by the two, and a handful of tremendous trumpet solos from Pops. Alas, no unissued tracks turn up here, and of course, MCA still controls all of the earlier Decca duets (hence the disclaimer "Complete on Verve")  so veteran Ella/Louis collectors may opt to hang on to earlier issues. But for those who don't have everything, this is irresistible. ~ Richard S.Ginell   http://www.allmusic.com/album/the-complete-ella-fitzgerald-louis-armstrong-on-verve-mw0000021845

 
Complete Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong on Verve (Disc 1)

Complete Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong on Verve (Disc 2)

Complete Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong on Verve (Disc 3)

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Marty Ehrlich - A Trumpet in the Morning

Styles: Jazz
Year: 2013
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 75:05
Size: 172,5 MB
Art: Front

( 3:28)  1. Prelude: Agbekor Translations
(23:20)  2. A Trumpet in the Morning
(11:06)  3. Blues for Peace
(20:21)  4. Rundowns and Turnbacks
(14:01)  5. M Variations (Melody for Madeleine)
( 2:47)  6. Postlude: Agbekor Translations

"The scope of Marty Ehrlich's extraordinary output has now grown exponentially with this stunning recording of exceptional orchestral writing." ~The New York City Jazz Record

This is the most ambitious recording I have done to date as a composer. These compositions, written over a twenty-year period, receive wonderful performances from these A-list musicians, many of whom I have worked with for thirty years and more. Each piece approaches the jazz orchestra in different ways. The music on this recording presents the fullest range yet of my creative passions. ~   Marty Ehrlich

This is the first program devoted entirely to the orchestral music of Marty Ehrlich. It displays the characteristics that have marked his success as an instrumentalist, composer, and bandleader: strong melodic invention and a keen ear for instrumental color, creative curiosity embracing disciplines beyond music, extreme sensitivity to those with whom he collaborates, formal inventiveness that enhances rather than obscures expressive intent, and an unblinking yet ultimately affirmative insistence on connecting his music with realities both historic and contemporary.

While Ehrlich had written earlier pieces for larger ensembles including the New York Composers Orchestra, his most ambitious documented opus prior to the present collection was The Long View (2000). The various movements of that work were scored for between two and fourteen musicians. Here, in contrast, the canvas remains large, though again it is mutable. Most of the 24 musicians involved have extensive histories with Ehrlich, who emphasizes that such personnel choices as the use of two rhythm sections were made "to enlist their individual approaches in giving the recording an even wider palette." He also says that the recording realizes "an inner compulsion to reveal the relationships among the pieces, the majority of which were written in the past decade and are long-form and multi-sectional. They share an intention, and are really my own music." 

~ Editorial Reviews  (Amazon.com)

A Trumpet in the Morning

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Bobby Forrester - Organic Chemistry (With Bubba Brooks, William Ash, Tootsie Bean)

Size: 157,9 MB
Time: 68:24
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2003
Styles: Hammond B3 Jazz
Art: Front

01. Centerpiece (10:36)
02. Undecided (10:25)
03. Blue And Sentimental ( 7:46)
04. Smooth Sailing ( 9:59)
05. (Back Home Again In) Indiana ( 9:56)
06. Mood Indigo ( 9:12)
07. Out Of Nowhere (10:28)

Bobby Forrester was just out of his teens when R&B legend Ruth Brown discovered him playing Hammond organ in a Harlem nightclub and hired him to lead her band -- he remained with her for over 25 years. In 2001, the Hammond was making a comeback in N.Y.C. and Forrester was at the forefront of the scene. He hosted a regular Sunday gig at the world famous Smalls nightclub, and this CD was recorded on a particularly heated night at the club. On tenor sax was the great Bubba Brooks, who had spent many years in Bill "Honky Tonk" Doggett's band. The music swung hard, the ballads seethed with tenderness. Liner notes by multi-Grammy award winner Phil Schaap. Produced by ex-Mink DeVille guitarist and W.C. Handy-nominated producer Louis X. Erlanger.

Organic Chemistry

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Keli Vale - Whose Life Is This

Size: 108,0 MB
Time: 46:19
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2013
Styles: Vocal Jazz
Art: Front

01. Please Don't Talk About Me When I'm Gone (2:52)
02. You're Getting To Be A Habit With Me (3:51)
03. Jordu (Life Is A Groove) (5:03)
04. The Day After (4:16)
05. I Want A Little Sugar In My Bowl (3:03)
06. Twisted (2:38)
07. In A Mellow Tone (3:43)
08. Pov Waltz (2:50)
09. Jazzman (4:10)
10. Don't Look At Me That Way (2:10)
11. Lush Life (3:49)
12. Whose Life Is This (6:11)
13. Pure Imagination (1:40)

This record is an organic representation of true jazz talent. No bells and whistles or tips and tricks - just real musicianship, heart, and feel. If you're a jazz/blues lover, you'll not be disappointed!

"An eclectic mix of soulful, heart-touching, lively tunes both old and new spanning genres & generations, sung by an inspirational, world-class talent ... Traces of Ella Fitzgerald, Eartha Kitt, Sarah Vaughan, Peggy Lee, Judy Garland and Maire Brennan can be a heard in this artist's vocal offerings."

"Keli's voice is soothing and reassuring with a bit o' playfulness mixed in."

“Keli is an extraordinary vocalist with a simply stunning voice! You will be overwhelmed by the power and softness of her voice; soothing classic sounds & warm jazz that will make an evening special!”
The Blue Horse

“Keli is making her presence known. Her vocal style has a distinct soulful feel, more than a rock edge, which makes her ideal for Sunday jazz brunch [yet] she can still deliver a hard-hitting Janis Joplin.”
Cristy Earnshaw - Spark Magazine / "Under the Covers"

Whose Life Is This

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Firm Roots - Firm Roots (Live)

Released: 2012
Size: 157,0 MB
Time: 68:24
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Styles: Funky Jazz Organ Trio
Art: Big Front

1. Walking With A New Step (Live) [10:57]
2. Simone (Live) [ 6:58]
3. Cold Duck Time (Live) [ 8:33]
4. Don't Let Me Be Lonely Tonight (Live) [ 5:57]
5. Quiet Thoroughfare (Live) [ 5:53]
6. Mercy, Mercy, Mercy (Live) [11:01]
7. I Thought About You (Live) [ 6:09]
8. Valdez In The Country (Live) [ 6:07]
9. Can't Hide Love (Live) [ 6:46]

For their self titled live release, Firm Roots invites the listener to become a member of the audience and experience a “Live” set performed at the historic Blues Alley, in Washington D.C. The difference in doing a live recording than a studio release is that you are trying capture a moment as opposed to creating one. With “Firm Roots (Live),” the trio does not disappoint. Every song on this album shows a mastery of groove, solo development, and attention to arrangement. You can feel the raw intensity in these extended songs executed to perfection.
Porecki’s original song “Walking With a New Step,” eases the listener in with a New Orleans style second line drum beat, that sets the course for the night. Porecki shows right out of the gate, why he is known for his deep, strong groove; as he pads, stabs, and drops the pedal on the organ. Collins enters on the tenor saxophone with a combination of old school swing, and squared off even eighth notes; that are highlighted by scoops, key slaps, overtones, bebop runs, and squealing altissimo. Prince finishes out the solos with a masterful display of polyrhythms, while still keeping the second-line drum groove. You can hear the approval of the audience in the background.
With the Frank Foster standard “Simone,” the trio changes gears to an uptempo jazz waltz to show off some bebop chops. This track sounds like Joey DeFrancesco, meets Stanley Turrentine, meets Jack DeJohnette.
For “Cold Duck Time,” the trio lays down some deep pocket syncopated funk. Collins approaches the melody with strong articulation, reed pops, and overtones; Porecki puts on a master class of solo development, filled with tension and release; and Prince unloads a dump truck full of chops to close out the solos.
“Mercy, Mercy, Mercy” is served up with a full coating of chicken grease. Porecki slowly winds the tune up on the funky clav with accented pitch bends. The band comes in with a groove that lands on beat two and the upbeat of four. The 11:01 extended version of this tune allows all three members of Firm Roots to dive deep into this Joe Zawinul classic.The trio slows things down a bit with the old jazz standard “I Thought About You.” On this tune, Brad Collins delivers a soulful vocal rendition, filled with dynamics, emotion, and space; as Porecki lays down a foundation of full organ pads.
“Firm Roots (Live)” manages to capture the intensity and spontaneity of a live show, while still maintaining the control and attention to detail that is needed for a CD release. If you like funky jazz performed by a top notch organ trio, then you will want to add “Firm Roots (Live)” to the top of your play list.(~~Scott Paddock)

Line-Up:
Brad Collins (tenor saxophone & vocals)
Benjie Porecki (keyboards & organ)
Mark Prince (drums)

Firm Roots: Live

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Lenny Breau & Brad Terry - The Complete Living Room Tapes (2-disc set)

Originally released as "The Living Room Tapes - Volume 1" & "The Living Room Tapes - Volume 2", this two CD set brings together, for the first time, both volumes of "The Living Room Tapes" in one package, in addition to over 30 minutes of previously unreleased material. All tracks have been digitally re-mastered. The total playing time of both CD's combined is almost two and a half hours long.

This two CD set contains 23 songs including 4 previously unreleased bonus tracks. The music contained on this two disc set is some of the best Lenny Breau ever recorded. This is a rare opportunity to hear Lenny play music by Merle Travis, Jerry Reed, Bill Evans, McCoy Tyner, and many well known Jazz Standards. Lenny also performs many solo pieces in addition to the duo material with clarinetist Brad Terry. Two of the bonus tracks reveal the humorous side of Lenny's personality and are sure to put a smile on your face. All tracks have been digitally remastered. Recorded in 1978.

Lenny Breau (vocals, acoustic & electric guitars); Brad Terry (whistling, clarinet).

Album: The Complete Living Room Tapes (Disc 1)
Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 70:34
Size: 161.5 MB
Styles: Guitar jazz
Year: 2003

[9:03] 1. Blues For Carole
[7:42] 2. How High The Moon
[5:04] 3. You Needed Me
[3:19] 4. The Claw
[7:46] 5. Secret Love
[6:21] 6. Sweet Georgia Brown
[5:31] 7. My Foolish Heart
[5:07] 8. I Fall In Love Too Easily
[3:51] 9. Send In The Clowns
[2:32] 10. Nine Pound Hammer
[1:28] 11. Cannonball Rag
[5:12] 12. Flamenco
[7:32] 13. It Could Happen To You

The Complete Living Room Tapes (Disc 1)

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Album: The Complete Living Room Tapes (Disc 2)
Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 72:12
Size: 165.3 MB
Styles: Guitar jazz
Year: 2003
Art: Front

[ 6:07] 1. Visions
[ 5:40] 2. Remembering The Rain
[ 7:25] 3. Autumn Leaves
[ 6:06] 4. Indiana
[ 7:11] 5. Stella By Starlight
[ 8:14] 6. Emily
[ 8:53] 7. My Funny Valentine
[17:58] 8. Autumn Leaves (Previously Unreleased)
[ 1:28] 9. Johnny Cash Sings Jazz
[ 3:07] 10. Lenny's Radio

The Complete Living Room Tapes (Disc 2)

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Eurythmics - Ultimate Collection

Bitrate: 320K/s
Time: 79:02
Size: 180.9 MB
Styles: Rock
Year: 2005
Art: Front

[4:04] 1. I've Got A Life
[3:42] 2. Love Is A Stranger
[3:35] 3. Sweet Dreams (Are Made Of This)
[3:44] 4. Who's That Girl
[3:48] 5. Right By Your Side
[4:49] 6. Here Comes The Rain Again
[4:24] 7. Would I Lie To You
[4:40] 8. There Must Be An Angel (Playing With My Heart)
[4:53] 9. Sisters Are Doin' It For Themselves
[3:44] 10. It's Alright (Baby's Coming Back)
[4:13] 11. When Tomorrow Comes
[4:12] 12. Thorn In My Side
[4:34] 13. The Miracle Of Love
[3:46] 14. Missionary Man
[3:51] 15. You Have Placed A Chill In My Heart
[4:22] 16. I Need A Man
[4:25] 17. I Saved The World Today
[4:19] 18. 17 Again
[3:48] 19. Was It Just Another Love Affair

Besting 1991's GREATEST HITS with a longer track list and the inclusion of two new recordings, the Eurythmics' ULTIMATE COLLECTION is a definitive exhibition of the band's best songs. The Eurythmics were always a singles band, and a set such as this--with indelible hypnotic/robotic grooves like "Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This) alongside the synth-pop melancholia of "Here Comes the Rain Again" and raucous neo-soul like "Would I Lie to You?"--helps one appreciate how much great work the duo produced. By the late '80s and into the '90s, the Eurythmics sound favored sweeping balladry and smooth, loungy productions (the closer of the set, "Was It Just Another Love Affair?," is a case in point). There is a fair sampling of that material, but ULTIMATE sticks primarily to the band's mid-'80s peak, showcasing their finest songs, the superb producing and arranging of Dave Stewart, and the exceptional vocals of Annie Lennox.

Ultimate Collection

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Fay Claassen & WDR Big Band - Sing!

Styles: Vocal Jazz
Year: 2010
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 65:11
Size: 149,2 MB
Art: Front

(4:31)  1. Tight
(5:45)  2. Is You Is or Is You Ain't My Baby
(6:37)  3. Throw It Away
(5:35)  4. A Felicidade
(4:32)  5. You Turn Me On
(3:13)  6. Cover Me
(5:27)  7. Be Cool
(4:27)  8. Umhome
(6:04)  9. A Good Man Is Hard to Find
(5:25) 10. A Flower Is a Lovesome Thing
(6:49) 11. Tea for Two
(6:41) 12. Everything Must Change

The sixth CD for Dutch jazz vocalist Fay Claassen teams her with vaunted arranger Michael Abene and the vaunted WDR Big Band-Cologne. They do a collection of standards, covers of pop tunes, Brazilian music, straight-ahead jazz, and ballads. What is remarkable for this team is the way Abene's charts work in consistent counterpoint with Claassen's lyrics, as if they are deep in close-up conversation. But even more than the give and take of vocalist vis-à-vis the instrumental component, Claassen's singing is outstanding in subtle, less demonstrative ways. 

When she interprets Betty Carter's famous tune "Tight" with a slight Billie Holiday tinge or a light bossa take of Abbey Lincoln's "Throw It Away," she changes the music while making it her own, sans excess. It's that distinction with a difference but not over the top that brands Claassen a class act. She's also stretching beyond just covering jazz standards, interpreting songs by such diverse writers as Louis Jordan, Miriam Makeba, Joni Mitchell, and Björk. Perhaps still obscure worldwide, Fay Claassen remains one of the very best singers in Europe, influenced by music on American shores. ~ Michael G.Nastos   http://www.allmusic.com/album/sing!-mw0002028526

Sing!

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Barbara Dennerlein - Take Off

Styles: Jazz
Year: 1995
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 68:42
Size: 157,3 MB
Art: Front

( 4:28)  1. Victory Blues
(10:05)  2. Take Off
( 6:29)  3. Fast Food
(10:04)  4. Fata Morgana
( 5:45)  5. Hot House
( 8:17)  6. Purple
( 4:01)  7. Fly Away
( 3:54)  8. Bo Peep
( 9:06)  9. Green Paradise
( 6:29) 10. Give It Up

German organist Barbara Dennerlein gained a lot of attention when she signed with Verve in the mid-'90s. This set shows that her sound is very different from the usual dominant influence on her instrument, Jimmy Smith. Much of the music is quite funky, with Dennerlein demonstrating that she can riff as passionately as anyone and come up with continually fresh ideas over fairly simple structures. There is more variety than expected on the program, including a straightforward version of the bebop standard "Hot House" and some moody ballads. Dennerlein is joined by a particularly strong supporting cast that includes trumpeter Roy Hargrove, trombonist Ray Anderson, Mike Sim on saxes, and guitarist Mitch Watkins. This is an excellent effort that is easily recommended to jazz/funk collectors. ~Scott Yanow  http://www.allmusic.com/album/take-off!-mw0000179647

Take Off

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Bob Brookmeyer & Ted Rosenthal - One Night in Vermont

Styles: Jazz
Year: 2003
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 62:55
Size: 145,2 MB
Art: Front

(10:40)  1. Night and Day
( 8:35)  2. Embraceable You
( 7:49)  3. Yesterdays
( 9:37)  4. Darn That Dream
( 8:35)  5. How Deep Is the Ocean
( 8:07)  6. What's New
( 9:29)  7. All the Things You Are

Two people. That’s all you need to create a stunning album complete with all of jazz’s beloved nuances, all the explosive vitality of a live performance and all those stirring moments that remind you why you need it in your life. One Night In Vermont, pianist Ted Rosenthal and trombonist Bob Brookmeyer’s new live album, contains all of these, but it also captures a historic evening the first time the pair played together as a duo. August 28th, 2001 at Wilmington, Vermont’s Memorial Hall Center for the Arts must have been a very special evening for all in attendance, for each of the seven standards on this disc buzz with brilliant beauty. Cole Porter, George and Ira Gershwin, Jerome Kern, Irving Berlin... they’re all here. Rosenthal and Brookmeyer, distinguished composers and arrangers themselves, take classic melodies from these revered songwriters, and enliven them with glistening contrapuntal streams, gracious improvisations, and playful duels. They bring a strong orchestral wisdom to the duo setting, expanding their capacity for expression and utilizing the absence of a rhythm section to their advantage. 

The pairing of trombone and piano provides for a tasteful contrast. In “Night And Day,” the two complement each other with opposing textures. Brookmeyer’s trombone takes on a rough tone as Rosenthal’s piano shimmers. During “Embraceable You,” Rosenthal comps tactfully over Brookmeyer’s solo, emphasizing each phrase with sharp, conspiratorial chords. Rosenthal’s own solo is ferociously rousing the kind that provokes a heightened pulse, and quickened breath. During his “Yesterdays” solo, it’s pure pleasure when Rosenthal loosens his grip and tumbles into the warbling melody that is so essentially of the Fred and Ginger era. Rosenthal and Brookmeyer play emphatically together. As one slows down, enraptured in the moment, the other takes the lead, propelling the team forward, but of course not stealing the spotlight. Both toy with rhythms like expert clowns juggling a collection of objects of varying shape and weight. Inciting nostalgia as with “Darn That Dream,” or compassion with “All The Things You Are,” this music simultaneously relaxes and invigorates. Listen and soak in the tub. Listen and button your cuff links for a swinging night out. Either way, listen. ~ Celeste Sunderland   

http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/article.php?id=13739#.UovGtuJc_vs

Personnel: Ted Rosenthal (piano), Bob Brookmeyer (valve trombone)

One Night in Vermont

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Kevin Dozier - Love-Wise

Styles: Vocal
Year: 2009
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 45:11
Size: 103,4 MB
Art: Front

(3:10)  1. People Will Say We're In Love
(2:24)  2. Beyond Compare
(3:00)  3. Love-Wise
(4:06)  4. On A Slow Boat To China
(3:07)  5. Soon It's Gonna Rain
(3:04)  6. Love Changes Everything
(3:29)  7. What's At The End Of The Rainbow
(3:43)  8. On My Way To You
(4:25)  9. Call Me Irresponsible
(3:45) 10. Remember / Always
(3:56) 11. The Shadow Of Your Smile
(3:56) 12. Over The Rainbow
(2:59) 13. Beforre We Say Goodbye

"One of the top 10 Vocal Albums of 2009!"~ Broadway.com

"Top 50 Albums of the Year!"~ WHLI Radio

Kevin Dozier's "Love-Wise" is a lovely, lovely, love-filled listen. Projecting a gentle soul, even a butterfly-fragile one, and with a rhapsodically romantic spirit, his voice is an exceptionally pretty one, and very musical...Kevin projects thoughtful intelligence as he and Marlowe set and sustain a mood, knowing the value of a pause. This album is worth the pause in any day to relish the honeyed and wise Love-Wise." ~ Rob Lester, Talkin' Broadway   http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/kevindozier

Love-Wise

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Robert Walter & His Bumpin Beats - In A Holiday Groove

Size: 76,8 MB
Time: 33:14
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2003
Styles: Acid Jazz
Art: Front

01. Santa Baby (3:26)
02. Silver Bells (3:44)
03. Winter Wonderland (3:47)
04. Jingle Bells (2:43)
05. Santa Claus Is Coming To Town (3:52)
06. The Christmas Song (2:32)
07. The Dreidel Song (2:02)
08. Jingle Bell Rock (2:54)
09. Little Drummer Boy (4:36)
10. Silent Night (3:35)

Tis the season - and we've spiked your eggnog with a handful of vintage Hammond organ, some crunchy beats, and a spicy dash of our secret stash. Keyboard wizard Robert Walter is your saucy chef, and he's stirring up a family affair with multidenominational flair! So pour yourself an extra-generous portion, put on your dancing shoes, and do the camel walk into the new year! Combine one of our generation's grooviest keyboard players with the Fog City taste for strong grooves and round sounds, and you've got Robert Walter and His Bumpin' Beats. A little nostalgia, a touch of slapstick, and a whole lotta soul...a few cocktails later, and it's a holiday groove!

In A Holiday Groove

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Kate Targan - From The Light

Size: 87,3 MB
Time: 37:25
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2013
Styles: Jazz Pop
Art: Front

01. La Despedida (3:16)
02. Almeria's Wind (4:07)
03. From The Light (3:56)
04. The Plane Song (3:32)
05. Nos (Feat. Xoan Curiel) (3:44)
06. Lonely (4:34)
07. Bilbao (4:20)
08. My Time (2:55)
09. Roberta Blue (4:09)
10. Paving The Way (2:49)

Every song on Kate Targan’s debut album, From the Light, is eminently listenable. Effortlessly striding across diverse styles and produced in a way that feels simultaneously meticulous and authentic, there isn’t an awkward or unbalanced song here. Yet for all that, it challenges audiences in ways that most music this accessible won’t. It is gentle enough to put on in the background, but it asks to be listened to. Its songs stand on their own, but they want to be heard as a whole album, a whole journey.

The album starts with the track "La Despedida", a wistful bluegrass departure reminiscent of Alison Krauss. With a voice combining a vulnerable airiness and fray with a studied jazz suppleness, Targan sings a goodbye to someone she still loves. Gentle guitar fingerpicking, sweet and simple piano lines and tasteful touches of steel guitar accompany the singer through a bittersweet parting. By the second track, however, she will be on the other side of the world, in the Spanish bossa nova number "Almeria’s Wind".

The thing holding the two tracks together is Targan’s voice. Somehow, her style can find a home anywhere, whether in a country reverie like "La Despedida" or a nocturnal, jazz romance like "Almeria’s Wind". Otherwise, the tracks are different enough to sound like they could be from two different albums the first time you hear them. The steel guitar is traded for a horn, the rhythmic fingerpicking for expressive chords, and the night mystery, filled out with the subtle sizzle of cymbals and the moody echo of vibraphone. Even the perspective has shifted, with the singer now the one holding on to a lover who must part.

The first switch between styles is a bit surprising on first listen, but becomes eminently gratifying as the logic of the album unfolds. Throughout From the Light, Targan switches back and forth between styles, traveling with the listener through the sunny days and luminous nights of a journey. Songs like "Nós" and "Bilbao" develop a moody jazz seduction, alternating with the warm, nostalgic sunlight of country tunes like "La Despedida" and "My Time".

The title track anchors the themes of the album. It begins with the words: “Take a walk with me through the moss-grown trees, where the dew-kissed trees cover sight. There, you’ll start to see morning’s golden beams shine down your reflection from the light.” This trip is not just about adventure and romance, but about healing. Alternating between leaving and returning, between longing and passion, the singer seeks to lead you to a place of wholeness, a mystical moment where the things you seek in the world find their double within you.

The penultimate track, "Roberta Blue", brings things full circle. With the lines: “Oh Roberta Blue, I wanna sing with you, you had a voice and a dream, and no one knew, and now you’ve got lifetimes of dreams to pursue,” Targan seems to be sending an absent loved one on her own journey, as the singer’s own travels draw to a close. A slow, aching ballad with gospel-inflected vocals underscored by flourishes of organ, the song feels like a religious tune, celebrating her friend’s strength and goodness, and rejoining in the journeys we all make through life.

The last song, "Paving the Way" is a gentle lullaby of return. With a piano line sounding sometimes like a music box and, other times, rolling like the strings of an orchestral harp, Targan celebrates a tender return to a loved one. “Let’s blink our lashes like butterflies, and even though I’m shy, I won’t go away,” she sings, turning down the lights in a homecoming with the same necessity, the same tenderness as the departure.

There are many levels on which to enjoy this album. You can listen to individual songs and enjoy them as well-crafted tunes. You can play the album through and passively move through the shifting styles and perspectives in a pleasant idyll. But if you really listen to it, you might get something deeper out of it: a celebration of the partings and reunions, the romances and reconciliations we all make, and a joy in the way we can take all these things with us through life. ~Review by David Lessem

From The Light

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