Wednesday, January 20, 2016

Big John Patton - Soul Connection

Size: 98,7 MB
Time: 40:11
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 1983/2008
Styles: Jazz: Soul Jazz, Hammond Organ
Art: Front

01. Soul Connection ( 9:45)
02. Pinto ( 5:16)
03. Extensions ( 6:48)
04. Space Station ( 5:36)
05. The Coaster (12:43)

The Hammond B-3 soul-jazz sound of Big John Patton (as he was then called) was perfect for the 1960s. It was the groove that drew attention and Patton made several albums for Blue Note. As his style went out of favor, some of the recordings never saw the light of day until almost 20 years later and at the same time Patton slipped into the background. He resurfaced in the 1980s and went into the studio. Among his albums Soul Connection, originally released in 1983 on Nilva Records (the label owned by drummer Alvin Queen) has now been re-released.

Patton had a strong band with him on this record. Trombonist Grachan Moncur III fits in just nicely. Moncur never shies from a challenge and his playing here is strong and imaginative. Guitarist Melvin Sparks has found his calling in several hyphenated jazz genres including acid, soul and funk, and saxophonist Grant Reed has played with Mongo Santamaria. Queen has a lively history having been part of the sound set up by Junior Mance, Stanley Turrentine and Charles Tolliver, among others. The band is the perfect conglomeration for the music here.

The title track kicks off the jam, with Moncur and Reed setting up the soul-jazz atmosphere. The melody grabs instantly and once the horns are established, Patton comes in. He stays with the melody but extrapolates it with a compact sense of direction, ringing the changes with just a little grease to slip and slide in and out of the groove. Reed injects boppish lines to give the tune a nice change of direction.

The band is in its element as they make "Extensions" swing. Sparks literally fires the first salvo with notes that light up the melody as he plays with an easy gait. Reed is hardy, hitting the deep end with taut notes, once more driving the tune into bop territory. Patton changes the tenor, the organ providing a lighter air as he prances lithely while Queen pushes the front line with his crisp accents and sense of rhythm. It all falls neatly into place.

Time has not effaced nor worn the impact of this music. It is still relevant, making this a welcome re-issue. ~by Jerry D'Souza

Personnel: John Patton: Hammond B-3 organ; Grachan Moncur III: trombone; Grant Reed: tenor sax; Melvin Sparks: guitar; Alvin Queen: drums.

Soul Connection

Maja Gullstrand - Not For Sale

Size: 99,4 MB
Time: 37:48
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2015
Styles: Jazz/Pop Vocals
Art: Front

01. Dindi (Radio Edit) (2:50)
02. Not For Sale (2:50)
03. Un I&U (3:43)
04. Summertime (Live) (5:11)
05. Dindi (Live) (3:51)
06. My Girl (2:59)
07. Explain It To My Heart (Live) (3:51)
08. Auld Lang Syne (3:39)
09. Fix You (5:08)
10. Be Strong (Live) (3:42)

Maja Gullstrand is a Swedish jazz singer who sings popmusik with a taste of blues and jazz. Maja Gullstrand has always chosen her own path and now has set out to do her own original songs and also new interpretations of evergreens.

Not For Sale

Ada Rovatti & The Elephunk Band - For Rent

Size: 116,1 MB
Time: 50:02
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2003
Styles: Jazz
Art: Front

01. Gotcha (5:51)
02. For Rent (6:04)
03. An Angel Has Gone (6:21)
04. Bluesy & Pinky (6:41)
05. Moanin' (7:06)
06. Choose Your Life (5:58)
07. Roman-Ce (6:42)
08. Norwegian Wood (This Bird Has Flown) (5:16)

Born in Pavia Italy, Ada's love for music began at the age of 4 when she began studying piano under the guidance of her grandmother. With persistent enthusiasm she continued her study of piano for 13 years, well into her first years high school.

During high school she began to listen to Blues, Jazz and Funk. It was at this time that Ada, drawn to these unique musical genres and already significantly accomplished for her age in piano, decided to pursue the saxophone.

After high school Ada studied with G. Comeglio and, in the following interval, with the "Jazz Company Big Band" and the "Jazz Class Orchestra". It was during this period that she had the chance to perform with famous soloists such as Phil Woods, Jerry Bergonzi, Randy Brecker, Lee Konitz, Bob Mintzer, Bob Malach, Antonia Bennett, Mike Richmond, Herb Pomeroy and Franco Ambrosetti.

In 1992 Ada was awarded a scholarship at UMBRIA Jazz with a "Special Recognition for Outstanding Musicianship" from the prestigious Berkley College of Music in BOSTON, USA

During the following months and years her time was spent between Italy and the US where she attended The Berkley College in Boston Ma. immersing herself in the study of arrangement and composition with Joe Viola, George Garzone, Fred Lipsius, Herb Pomeroy and other notable music academics.

After her studies in the USA Ada moved to Paris which led to her performing/touring with the "Chance Orchestra", a jazz-funk band, throughout Europe and Africa as well as involving herself in numerous collaborative projects with different artists.

After touring she returned to Italy where her work was devoted to everything from Pop to Jazz. It is at this time that Ada became involved in recording with MINA in "Canarino Mannaro", touring with Camilla and Quartiere Latino, Romano Mussolini and performing with Bruno De Filippi, Franco Cerri and Enrico Intra. And when not touring or performing her time was spent either composing or arranging for notable European Big Bands.

In 1997 Ada moved to New York City where she has appeared with an impressive and diverse list of artists and bands such as: Les Paul, Antonia Bennett plus special appearances with Tony Bennett, Barbara Carroll, Kit McClure Big Band, Diva Big Band, Phil Markowitz, Howard Williams Big Band, Harvey Swartz, Freddie Bryant,Gene Bertoncini, Eddie Henderson, Sylvia Cuenca, Jill McCarron, Ingrid Jensen, Deanna Witkowski and many many others.

When in New York Ada Rovatti leads two different bands:

The Ada Rovatti Jazz Quartet/Quintet - A straight ahead group in which Ada Rovatti performs mostly her compositions and arrangements.

Elephunk - A nine piece group of extraordinary musicians with which Ada Rovatti performs and directs her arrangements and compositions.

Renowned jazz artists such as Randy Brecker, the late Bob Berg, Adam Nussbaum, Dawn Thomson and many others have performed Ada Rovatti's compositions at numerous International festivals.

Ada has performed throughout the US at venues such as Birdland, Iridium, The Garage (New York City), Hard Rock Cafe(Boston Ma), Elephant Room in (Austin Tx) to the latest Rochester Jazz Festival with her nine piece group Elephunk and the JVC Festival(New York City) to mention a few.

She has just finished the shooting of her film appearances in the movie ‘Mona Lisa Smile’ featuring Julia Roberts.

Ada Rovatti is currently signed with APRIA Records which will be releasing 2 CDs. The first with the Ada Rovatti Quartet featuring Randy Brecker, Mike Stern and Don Alias and the second CD with "Elephunk".

For Rent

Quiana Lynell - Loving Me

Size: 65,3 MB
Time: 27:52
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2015
Styles: Jazz/Blues Vocals
Art: Front

01. Love Me (4:30)
02. Wish I Didn't Know (5:37)
03. What It Means (3:31)
04. Just Squeeze Me (5:25)
05. Push You Away (3:43)
06. I Can't Feel My Heart (5:05)

With a smile that will entrance you and a voice that helps your troubles disappear, Lynell’s vocal dexterity allows her to perform a limitless repertoire. Infusing her classical training with her gospel upbringing she approaches jazz as a storyteller. Growing up in small town west Texas Lynell grew her appreciation for all types of music and quickly realized music was a way to connect to the world.

Graduating from Louisiana State University’s music department Lynell is able to harness her voice as a true instrument and perform various genres of music with precision and validity. Lynell frequents the stage as a clinician, performer, arranger, bandleader and songwriter. As she has made her way through the music scene Lynell has shared the stage with headline jazz artists such as Herlin Riley, Roderick Paulin, Don Vappie, Mitchell Player and countless local artists and bands. Collaborating and creating lifelong experiences is a passion of Lynell’s, she has been a featured vocalist on various artist recordings. Lynell has performed with the Baton Rouge Symphony Orchestra as the principle Soprano using the classical side of her voice and has performed at the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage festival presenting traditional jazz music. She has performed in several musicals throughout New Orleans and Baton Rouge receiving rave reviews.

Lynell's love for music carries over into all interactions of her life. She spends most of her days curating new musicians as the music instructor at a primary school. She has also created a program wich she shares in clinics nationally, "Made in America: Lyrically Speaking" in which she delves into jazz, blues and traditional American music from the vocalist perspective.

When Lynell takes the stage, she guides the listeners on a journey where “jazz collides with soul” allowing the simplest of melodies to entrance the listener. Lynell creates an environment where love is paramount, emphasizing the importance of self-worth and respect through her music. She speaks uplifting lyrics to those who have been broken hearted and stresses the importance of not letting the past dictate your future. Her new EP entitled "Loving Me" guides the listener through Lynell’s own transformation. The transition to finding her self-worth has lead Lynell on a journey that has also included health and fitness. As the creator of "Musicians Run", she sponsors weekly meet-ups for musicians to meet and exercise promoting health as a wealth.

Lynell sees each opportunity to share music with any audience as a chance to create memories and build the soundtrack of life. Whether she is leading the band or supporting other artist, she is thankful to have the opportunity to sketch new memories that last a lifetime.

Loving Me

Cyrus Pace - Straight From The Source

Size: 101,1 MB
Time: 38:20
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2005
Styles: Jazz: Traditional Jazz Combo
Art: Front

01. Straight From The Source (4:14)
02. Doin' The Thing (7:25)
03. Poor Wayfaring Stranger (7:23)
04. Taxman (8:14)
05. Lullaby For Helene (2:04)
06. Sort Of Softly (4:53)
07. Pure Imagination (4:04)

Personnel:
Cyrus Pace: Guitar
Dr. Lonnie Smith: Organ
Rene' Marie: Vocals
Adam Clark: Drums/Percussion

In a world that often seems crowded with talented musicians, the light often shines on those artists who seek their personal voice at any cost. Cyrus Pace has spent the last 16 years doing just that. Through the fortunate contact with musicians who stressed the importance of self-expression and originality in music early in his career, Cyrus learned of the power of music as a tool of expression. The long and continuing search for meaning in music has lead to a realization for him that the guitar is not the instrument, the player is the instrument. He is as influenced by Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and James Brown as he is by Miles Davis, John Coltrane, and Wes Montgomery. Cyrus seeks to serve the source that is independent of form, style, and classification.

Cyrus played his first professional gig at 15, toured extensively with the Navy Band, and received his Master's Degree in Performance from Manhattan School of Music where he studied with Rodney Jones, Jack Wilkins, Gary Dial, and Mike Abene. His previous ensembles include the Guitarmageddon Guitar Quartet he started with his 3 guitarist roommates in their Harlem Apartment. He is a guest lecturer at Roanoke College and Virginia Tech.

Straight From The Source

Eric Dolphy - Prestige Profiles (2-Disc Set)

Prestige Profiles, Vol. 5 contains previously released tracks taken from alto saxophonist and bass clarinetist Eric Dolphy's short stint with the label in the early '60s. The ten tracks, aimed at the casual listener, include the Dolphy-penned classics "G.W.," "Miss Ann," "Far Cry," and "Serene." With Dolphy backed by an extraordinary roster of jazz musicians including Freddie Hubbard, Jaki Byard, Booker Little, Ron Carter, Mal Waldron, and Roy Haynes, this is an excellent mid-line sampler for the novice. ~Al Campbell

Album: Prestige Profiles (Disc 1)
Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 77:42
Size: 177.9 MB
Styles: Post bop, Saxophone jazz
Year: 2004

[ 6:51] 1. Out There
[ 5:43] 2. On Green Dolphin Street
[ 3:51] 3. Far Cry
[ 6:58] 4. Serene
[ 4:14] 5. Miss Ann
[ 7:56] 6. Fire Waltz
[ 7:56] 7. G.W
[ 6:15] 8. Glad To Be Unhappy
[14:35] 9. Booker's Waltz
[13:19] 10. Status Seeking


Prestige Profiles (Disc 1)
Album: Prestige Profiles (Disc 2)
Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 49:09
Size: 112.5 MB
Styles: Post bop, Saxophone jazz
Year: 2004
Art: Front

[ 7:44] 1. A Lunar Tune
[11:16] 2. Blue 7
[ 8:40] 3. Bakai
[ 5:37] 4. Blues For The Orient
[ 4:59] 5. Evidence
[ 5:11] 6. Tragedy
[ 5:40] 7. Rally

Prestige Profiles (Disc 2)

Gale Robbins - I'm A Dreamer

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 32:51
Size: 75.2 MB
Styles: Pop-jazz vocals
Year: 1958/2010
Art: Front

[2:08] 1. What Is This Thing Called Love
[3:06] 2. Them There Eyes
[2:26] 3. How Deep Is The Ocean
[2:35] 4. Ain't Nothing Wrong With That Baqby
[2:29] 5. Golden Earrings
[3:00] 6. The Nearness Of You
[2:48] 7. They Can't Take That Awaay From Me
[2:53] 8. Here I Go (In Love Again)
[2:33] 9. I'm A Dreamer, Aren't We All
[3:17] 10. Best Of All
[2:44] 11. Music, Maestro, Please
[2:46] 12. Ain't Misbehavin'

ometimes the most refreshing updates of familiar standards come from the most unexpected sources, and that's certainly the case with I'm a Dreamer. Although Gale Robbins never earned the fame or renown awarded other pinups of the late 1950s, this pairing with the Eddie Cano Orchestra is an absolute delight. Though by no means a powerhouse vocalist, Robbins knows her way around a melody, and her torchy, after-hours approach lends new maturity and sophistication to familiar fare like "Them There Eyes," "They Can't Take That Away from Me," and "Ain't Misbehavin'." But the real star of the session is Cano, whose vivid arrangements frame the songs from appealing and unique perspectives. The record glows with energy and warmth. ~Jason Ankeny

I'm A Dreamer

Brent Ellis - Summertime

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 53:49
Size: 123.2 MB
Styles: Smooth jazz, Guitar jazz
Year: 2008
Art: Front

[5:00] 1. Sunland
[4:53] 2. Summertime
[5:16] 3. Amazon Funk
[3:57] 4. So Glad It's You
[4:42] 5. Sweet Love
[4:26] 6. Black Orpheus
[5:06] 7. Since I Found You
[3:34] 8. The Days Of Wine And Roses
[3:35] 9. Movin' On
[4:36] 10. I'll Follow You
[4:12] 11. Our Treasure
[4:28] 12. Coming Home Baby

Smooth Jazz Fusion featuring the musicians of the Brent Ellis Group, soulful vocals by Melissa Albertson on Summertime and Sweet Love, as well as other guest musicians. The album includes easy listening Jazz, Smooth Jazz, as well as a few harder hitting Jazz Fusion tunes. Six original tunes plus six cover tunes.

Robin Ellis provides the bass grooves, and Lloyd Bates contributes his inspiring keyboards to the album. When you listen to Brent's guitar playing you can tell his heart and soul is behind each note as he pays tribute to his favourite guitar players, Wes Montgomery, Lenny Breau, and Lee Ritenour. Brent Ellis has been into Jazz guitar since he was 12. Since his years at W.W.U. as a Jazz major, he has been refining his skills both as a guitarist and a recording engineer at LS Records. So go ahead, have a listen to Brent's CD and enjoy your 'Summertime'.

Summertime

Ted Curson - Blue Piccolo

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 66:31
Size: 152.3 MB
Styles: Trumpet jazz
Year: 1976/2000
Art: Front

[ 9:38] 1. All The Things You Are
[12:29] 2. Blue Piccolo
[ 7:07] 3. Playhouse March
[ 7:46] 4. Ted's Tempo
[ 9:30] 5. Round Midnight
[ 8:07] 6. Song Of The Lonely
[ 5:31] 7. Open The Door
[ 6:21] 8. Gary G

Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Trumpet [Pocket] – Ted Curson; Piano – Jim McNeely; Bass – Cecil McBee; Drums – Steve McCall.

Ted Curson, a trumpet player of renowned ability and taste, is well showcased in this excellent mid seventies session produced by the renowned Masahiko Yuh. His aptly chosen companions Jim McNeely, Cecil McBee and Steve McCall all contribute strongly to the collection of Curson originals and standards. Curson will always be remembered for his close association with Charles Mingus, Eric Dolphy and Dannie Richmond. Ted also spent time with Max Roach and co-led a band with saxophonist Bill Barron which during one of Cursons frequent excursions to Europe, recorded his moving piece Tears for Dolphy in Paris. Ted's versaltility is evident throughout, not more so than on the extended version of Blue Piccolo, where he utilises the seldom heard 'pocket trumpet'.

Blue Piccolo

Duke Jordan - Duke's Delight

Styles: Piano Jazz
Year: 1975
File: MP3@256K/s
Time: 60:14
Size: 110,4 MB
Art: Front

(7:55)  1. Truth
(5:36)  2. In My Solitude
(9:46)  3. Sultry Eve
(6:07)  4. Undecided Lady
(9:13)  5. Tall Grass
(7:25)  6. Duke's Delight
(6:32)  7. Undecided Lady Take 1
(7:36)  8. Duke's Delight Take 4

Duke's Delight is a classy recording from a pianist of renown. While the tape was rolling Duke Jordan's playing was inspired, and the band stayed right with him throughout this session, which includes five Jordan compositions and Duke Ellington's "In My Solitude." Playing piano in a sax and trumpet format is a setting long familiar to Jordon, and his clear, melodic lines rise above a tight band that is consistently up for the challenge. Charlie Rouse on tenor plays a straight forward bluesy sax, much different from his Thelonious Monk days, and Richard Williams on trumpet provides his precise, sometimes fiery, commentary. Bassist Sam Jones and drummer Al Foster round out a rhythm section that's honed and vigorous. This quintet can cook. 

Jordan is primarily remembered for his stellar work in the magnificent Charlie Parker Quintet the famous band that was graced with the presence of the young Miles Davis and the master drummer Max Roach. This was back in the late 1940's when Jordan was a key figure, often providing fine introductions, as well as riveting solos and intricate accompaniment to some of Parker's finest work. Jordan's solos have always been known for their clarity of construction and thoughtful swing. With Parker there was also a lyrical sweetness to his tone that meshed well with the dissonance of the edgier bebop compositions. His sophisticated mastery of the music ensured that he would continue to be an in-demand pianist. After recording with Stan Getz, Sonny Stitt, and a long line-up of other name players, Jordan moved to Denmark in 1978 and developed a productive relationship with SteepleChase Records until his death in 2006.

Duke's Delight is often considered one of Jordan's best SteepleChase recordings. The playing is up front and open, the band having the talent and rapport to sustain such honesty; while Jordan's compositions present solid material to work and develop. Jordan's compositions and arrangements have a similar clarity of construction as his solo work and there's a no-nonsense, sophisticated air about his conceptions that set the tone for this marvelous session. ~ Mike Neely  http://www.allaboutjazz.com/dukes-delight-duke-jordan-steeplechase-records-review-by-mike-neely.php

Personnel: Duke Jordan: piano; Richard Williams: trumpet; Charlie Rouse: tenor saxophone; Sam Jones: bass; Al Foster: drums.

Duke's Delight

Beady Belle - Songs From A Decade: The Best Of Beady Belle

Styles: Vocal
Year: 2015
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 148:42
Size: 341,4 MB
Art: Front

(5:20)  1. Saved
(3:47)  2. So Far So Good
(4:52)  3. Diamond in the Rough
(4:57)  4. My Name On The World
(3:43)  5. Lose & Win (Radio Edit)
(6:14)  6. Irony
(4:18)  7. Self-fulfilling
(3:53)  8. Runaway mind
(4:03)  9. Skin Deep
(5:19) 10. Moderation
(5:12) 11. Ghosts
(6:03) 12. Big balloon
(5:05) 13. A Touch Of Paradise
(4:45) 14. Shadow
(4:38) 15. Apron Strings
(3:35) 16. Intermission Music
(4:21) 17. April fool
(3:18) 18. Closer
(5:22) 19. When My Anger Starts To Cry
(3:52) 20. Turn back time
(4:55) 21. Half-truth
(4:48) 22. Closer (Live at Parkteateret)
(8:36) 23. Shadow (Live at Parkteateret)
(7:00) 24. Skin Deep (Live at Parkteateret)
(6:13) 25. Come Home (Live at Parkteateret)
(5:15) 26. Half-truth (Live at Parkteateret)
(7:11) 27. Never Mind (Live at Parkteateret)
(6:56) 28. My Name On The World (Live at Parkteateret)
(4:57) 29. Every Moment (Live at Parkteateret)

Featuring the vocal talents of Beate S. Lech, Norwegian group Beady Belle make jazz, acid jazz, and downbeat-influenced electronic pop. Formed in Oslo in 1999 by former university music students Lech and bassist/programmer Marius Reksjø, the band also includes drummer Erik Holm. What originally began as Lech's solo debut for Jazzland Records eventually morphed into Beady Belle's 2001 debut album, Home, after Lech and Reksjø began collaborating on Lech's songs. Two years later the band released its sophomore album with Cewbeagappic. In 2005, Beady Belle dropped their third studio effort, Closer. Belvedere followed in 2008.  https://itunes.apple.com/gm/artist/beady-belle/id14398709#fullText

Songs From A Decade: The Best Of Beady Belle Part I

Minnie Riperton - Les Fleurs: The Minnie Riperton Anthology

Styles: Vocal, R&B
Year: 2001
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 66:39
Size: 154,6 MB
Art: Front

(5:45)  1. I Am the Black Gold of the Sun
(3:27)  2. Reasons
(3:52)  3. Every Time He Comes Around
(3:46)  4. Young, Willing and Able
(4:41)  5. Inside My Love
(4:25)  6. Memory Lane
(3:39)  7. Love Hurts
(4:05)  8. Here We Go
(4:32)  9. You Take My Breath Away
(7:57) 10. Strange Affair
(4:11) 11. Take a Little Trip
(3:59) 12. I'm a Woman
(3:46) 13. Lovin' You
(3:16) 14. Les Fleurs
(5:10) 15. Light My Fire

There are numerous collections out there, perhaps a dozen that cover the late and highly influential Minnie Riperton's career. The very best one out there is the double-disc set on the Right Stuff label called Petals: The Minnie Riperton Collection. This one on Stateside is easy to confuse given its similar title especially since they were released only ten months apart. But the two are not remotely similar in quality. Petals may cost more, but it's worth it: It is a standard bearer and covers Minnie Riperton's entire career with great sound and solid liner notes as well as reliable discographical information. It is also assembled with a great sense of aesthetics in terms of its sequencing. Fleurs is nothing more than a slapdash effort; its poor presentation and sound are designed to make a quick buck and nothing more. If the only cut you want is "Lovin' You," do yourself a big favor and score a legal download from digital retailers. ~ Thom Jurek  http://www.allmusic.com/album/les-fleurs-the-minnie-riperton-anthology-mw0000738892

Les Fleurs: The Minnie Riperton Anthology

Tisziji Munoz - Presence Of Joy (Samboga-Kaya)

Styles: Guitar Jazz
Year: 1999
File: MP3@320K/s
Time: 70:51
Size: 162,3 MB
Art: Front

(10:30)  1. Happy Sadness
(18:55)  2. Presence Of Joy
( 4:21)  3. Peace On Earth I
( 8:38)  4. Jewel Of Enchantment
(16:20)  5. The Blue Pearl Of Tantra
(12:06)  6. Peace On Earth II

"It’s great playing with Tisziji because he is right in the middle of the music. Tisziji goes right to the center of the music bringing everybody with him. He seizes the right moment. He won’t play unless it’s right." ~ Dave Liebman.

"Tisziji’s music creates a good feeling. I never really get a chance to play like this. This kind of music is not played very much. It’s great that Tisziji is putting it out there like this. He is giving people a chance to hear music which they seldom get a chance to hear. Check this out." ~ Rashied Ali 

"Playing with Tisziji Muñoz on Presence of Joy was like jumping out of a plane without a parachute, or like flying the trapeze without a net. This music sounds different every time you listen to it." ~ Don Pate

"Tisziji's music is more directed towards the inner senses and the deepest feelings. His music is unhampered by technical things, you know, chords, time, structure, whatever. This is direct expression. I am always regenerated, refreshed, replenished and inspired by playing his music. I rarely get a chance to play this way. This music energizes me. I rarely get the chance to play with so much freedom." ~ Bernie Senensky   http://www.heartfiresound.com/joy.html

Personnel:  Tisziji Muñoz: Guitar and Bells;  Dave Liebman: Tenor/Soprano Sax;  Bernie Senensky: Piano;  Cecil McBee: Bass;  Don Pate: Bass;  Rashied Ali: Drums

Presence Of Joy (Samboga-Kaya)

Tuesday, January 19, 2016

Patricia O'Callaghan - Matador: The Songs Of Leonard Cohen

Size: 133,5 MB
Time: 57:34
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2012
Styles: Jazz/Folk
Art: Front

01. The Gypsy’s Wife (4:14)
02. The Window (5:21)
03. Dance Me To The End Of Love (Feat. Mike Ross) (4:12)
04. Who By Fire (3:11)
05. Alexandra Leaving (Feat. Sienna Dahlen) (4:58)
06. Everybody Knows (3:58)
07. Suzanne (4:24)
08. If It Be Your Will (Feat. Maryem Tollar) (3:37)
09. Anthem (Feat. Sienna Dahlen) (4:26)
10. The Smokey Life (Feat. Steven Page) (6:10)
11. Joan Of Arc (5:51)
12. I’m Your Man (3:08)
13. Hallelujah (3:56)

Often described as the most promising cabaret artist of her generation, Canadian soprano Patricia O'Callaghan's back catalog is littered with cover versions of her homeland's most famous troubadour, Leonard Cohen, but named after the Toronto tavern he regularly used to frequent, Matador is the first time she's dedicated a whole album to his hugely influential body of work. Featuring material from 1967's The Songs of Leonard Cohen ("Suzanne") right up to 2001's Ten New Songs ("Alexandra Leaving"), its 13 tracks prove she certainly knows her stuff, but her elegant delivery and tasteful arrangements should also help appease those who argue his celebrated output should remain untouched. Indeed, although two of Cohen's forays into synth territory, "Everybody Knows" and "I'm Your Man," are transformed into a rousing slice of theatrical blues and a seductive lounge-pop number respectively, O'Callaghan largely opts for subtle changes rather than radical reworkings, whether it's pushing the lilting strings to the forefront on "The Window," whipping up a singalong finale on "Dance Me to the End of Love," or opening the somber breakup song of "The Gypsy's Wife" with some trip-hop-tinged beats. Elsewhere, she's joined by an array of guest vocalists including Barenaked Ladies' Steven Page on the shuffling jazz of "The Smokey Life," Arabic singer Maryem Tollar on the understated melancholy of "If It Be Your Will," and Toronto musician Sienna Dahlen on the poignant folk of "Anthem," while the much-covered "Hallelujah" and "Joan of Arc" (two of four songs that have appeared on her previous releases) see her showcase the operatic leanings that defined her early career. A graceful and respectful homage to a true musical icon, Matador: The Songs of Leonard Cohen cements O'Callaghan's position as one of his most accomplished interpreters. ~by Jon O'Brien

Matador

Roy Budd - In The Groove

Size: 111,5 MB
Time: 47:34
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2016
Styles: Jazz: Hammond Organ
Art: Front

01. The Cat (1:53)
02. Watermelon Man (2:47)
03. Billy Joe (2:26)
04. On Broadwat (2:24)
05. Sunshine Superman (2:39)
06. Go John Go (5:12)
07. Unfair To Scarborough (2:53)
08. High Helled Sneakers (4:11)
09. Call Me (4:24)
10. Norwegian Wood (3:43)
11. Couldn't Make A Fool (2:23)
12. Uptight (3:13)
13. Sonny (3:15)
14. Detroit City (6:03)

Roy Frederick Budd (14 March 1947, Mitcham, Surrey – 7 August 1993, London) was a British jazz musician and film composer.

Although some biographies say Budd started playing aged four, he was two and a half years old when he started picking out tunes on the piano the morning after a Christmas party (verified by Roy's brother). When he was six, two German professors visited him in South Norwood, and after various tests, found that he had perfect pitch. That year, he made his public concert debut at the London Coliseum.

At eight years old he already had a vast musical repertoire. He was featured on the Caroll Levis show on radio when he was only ten. He even sang some Jerry Lee Lewis songs when he was eleven years old with his brother Peter and brother's friend Geoffrey at the Sutton Granada under the name "The Blue Devils." (verified by Roy's brother). He formed the "Roy Budd Trio" with bassist Peter McGirk and drummer Trevor Tomkins before leaving school and embarking on a career as a jazz pianist. Later Roy reformed the trio with Jeff Cline (Bass) and Chris Karan (drums). Jeff Cline was replaced by Pete Morgan, and that trio existed until his death.

His first recording was the eponymous album "Pick Yourself Up" in early 1965 with Pete McGurk on bass with the orchestra and Dave Holland on bass with the trio and Chris Karan on drums and Tony Hatch, Johnny Harris and Roy Budd as arrangers. Other solo albums include "Live at Newport" "Roy Budd" "Everything Is Coming Up Roses" and "Have a Jazzy Christmas".

His first film score was for the American western Soldier Blue in 1970, but most of his film work was on British productions. His best known score is probably for the 1971 Michael Caine film Get Carter, which marked the first notable use of his hallmark method of using the film's sound effects (in this case, Caine's train journey from London to Newcastle) to complement the music. He later worked on a number of films for the producer Euan Lloyd, including Paper Tiger, The Wild Geese, The Sea Wolves and Who Dares Wins. Another his work was Kidnapped 1971 soundtrack.

His last work was a new symphonic score for the 1925 silent film The Phantom of the Opera. The score was over 80 minutes long.

In 1972, as his career was peaking, he married actress/singer and divorcée Caterina Valente; they divorced just seven years later.

He died at age 47 in 1993, due to a brain haemorrhage.

In The Groove

Beat Kaestli - Live In Europe

Size: 129,4 MB
Time: 55:47
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2015
Styles: Jazz Vocals
Art: Front

01. Day In, Day Out (Live) (5:26)
02. Conflicted (Live) (5:32)
03. Missing/Here Comes The Rain Again (Live) (6:12)
04. Softly As In A Morning Sunrise (Live) (10:30)
05. That's All (Live) (4:53)
06. Why Should I Pretend (Live) (5:17)
07. The Choice You Make/Choix De Vie (Live) (6:12)
08. What Are You Doing The Rest Of Your Life (Live) (5:23)
09. Body And Soul (Live) (6:19)

In my humble estimation, there are two ballad singers (living) without peer: Rebecca Parris and Beat Kaestli. The latter has had a string of recent recordings that are as innovative as they are entertaining, including: Happy, Sad And Satisfied (B&B Productions, 2005), Invitation (Chesky Records, 2010), and Collage (B&B Productions, 2014).

Kaestli sneaks a live recording in on us: Live in Europe where he performs with a trio lead by pianist Walter Fischbacher (musical and life partner of vocalist Elizabeth Lohninger, both close associates of Kaestli's). Kaestli's European repertoire is plentiful in his trademark ballad singing with the addition of the contemporary pop of the Eurythmics' "Here Comes the Rain Again," which melds sonically in medley with "Missing" both folded into a seamless samba. Central to this performance is a scintillating "Softly, As in a Morning Sunrise," which is introduced gently with an angular Petr Dvorsky bass solo. A ballad typically tethered to tempo harmonically, Kaestli and Fischbacher liberate the melody giving it free-floating flight. The tempo almost too slow is nevertheless perfect for the exposition. The performances exists as evidence of Kaestli's command of the genre. ~C. Michael Bailey

Personnel: Beat Kaestli: voice; Walter Fischbacher: piano; Petr Dvorsky: bass; Andreas Winter: drums.

Live In Europe

Brian Andres & The Afro-Cuban Jazz Cartel - This Could Be That

Size: 133,1 MB
Time: 57:15
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2016
Styles: Jazz: Afro-Cuban Jazz, Latin Jazz
Art: Front

01. Amyable (5:12)
02. Esto Puede Ser Eso (6:05)
03. Limite (6:33)
04. Les Cailloux (4:07)
05. Got A Match (3:29)
06. My One And Only Love (7:00)
07. Bacalaitos (5:13)
08. Roasted To Perfection (5:51)
09. Banderas Rojas (3:54)
10. Relativity (5:05)
11. Algo Nuevecito (4:40)

The San Francisco Bay Area has been a historic hotbed for Latin Jazz artists. From Cal Tjader to Armando Peraza, John Santos to Wayne Wallace. The Latin jazz tradition has thrived in the Bay Area. It is from this tradition that The Afro-Cuban Jazz Cartel arrives. Lead by drummer Brian Andres, the group was formed to contribute its own mark to that storied history. Featuring Grammy Award winning musicians as well as esteemed music educators, the ACJC never fails to perform its music at the highest level. The repertoire consists of original compositions as well as exciting original arrangements of classics from Cuba, Puerto Rico, Mexico and the United States. He group is equally capable of performing a dance or concert repertoire, as well as educational presentations such as lectures, workshops or instruction focused on the musical instrumentation, composition and arranging or cultural significance and history of the music they perform.

The ACJC has two CD’s. Released in 2007, the first recording, Drummer’s Speak, hailed the arrival of the group. Featuring 9 songs that were composed by well known Jazz drummers and percussionists, each tune was given an original arrangement by members of the group. In 2013, the ACJC released its second recording, San Francisco. Focusing on the composing, arranging and performing talent of the SF Bay Area Latin Jazz scene, the recording debuted on the CMJ Jazz Top 40 at number 39. Eventually climbing to number 23, it was met with critical acclaim while staying on the CDBaby Best Selling list for 4 months.

The Afro-Cuban Jazz Cartel's third recording, This Could be That, it's a continuation of the hard hitting, modern Latin Jazz sound they've become known for, and features special guests Alex Acuna, Venissa Santi, John Santos, Louie Romero, Michael Spiro, Calixto Oviedo, Jesus Florido and Brian's father, Mike Andres.

This Could Be That

Carlos Vega - Bird's Ticket

Size: 178,9 MB
Time: 77:06
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2016
Styles: Jazz
Art: Front

01. A Confluence In Chi-Town (8:57)
02. Bird's Ticket (7:06)
03. Taurus On The Run (10:08)
04. Taurus And Virgo (7:23)
05. Dragon Rose ( 6:39)
06. Chicago Eight (6:41)
07. Elements (6:39)
08. The Wizard (8:54)
09. In Other Words (7:54)
10. Reflecting Pools (6:41)

Saxophonist Carlos Vega's band crackles. The sound of "A Confluence in Chi-Town," the opener on his Bird's Ticket recording, has an on-the-edge urgency in its distinctive approach to the standard jazz quintet format—bass/drums/keyboard rhythm section and a trumpet and a saxophone—a line up like Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie used.

Vega, a veteran of trumpter/band leader Doc Severinsen's band, sets up, with that high octane opener, an expectation for high level interaction, brash solo slots for himself on tenor, Victor Garcia on trumpet, and keyboardist, Stu Mindeman, backed by modern and often Latin tinged rhythmic drive. He and the band don't disappoint. They sound like Latin renegades on the title tune, swaggering just a bit outside the law, horn solos burning; and "Taurus and Virgo" sounds like a Wayne Shorter-penned out-take to the ground breaking Miles Davis outing, Filles de Kilimanjaro (Columbia Records, 1968), with Mindeman shifting, deftly, from acoustic piano to Fender rhodes.

This particular quintet configuration is one of the most common and enduring, making it hard for a band to carve out its own space. Vega and his cohorts do just this via the leader's distinctive and modernistic compositions—it's an all Vega originals set—crafty arrangements, spirited group interplay that sometimes bumps into contentious-sounding territory (they are reacting to each other, with gusto), and ear-grabbing freshness and spontaneity in their respective soloing. And a group can't do much more than that, on this January release that opens the New Year with a modern jazz blast. ~By Dan Mcclenaghan

Personnel: Carlos Vega: saxophone; Victor Garcia: trumpet; Stu Mindeman: piano, rhodes; Xavier Breaker: drums; Juan Pastor: cajon (4).

Bird's Ticket

Lisa Yves - Solo On The Road

Size: 102,1 MB
Time: 35:53
File: MP3 @ 320K/s
Released: 2015
Styles: Jazz Vocals
Art: Front

01. Leaving Town Today (3:27)
02. Autumn In New York (3:28)
03. Two Dollars And Ninety Five Cents (2:20)
04. Snowfall (3:14)
05. You Haunt Me (4:50)
06. The Last Time I Saw Ronnie (4:12)
07. Come Back (2:56)
08. San Francisco Blues (3:52)
09. I've Just Got To Sing (3:08)
10. Ronnie Revisited (4:22)

FOR 30 YEARS, Lisa Yves has performed and recorded standards and originals, winning over audiences of all ages. Born and raised in New York, Lisa studied at New York University and graduated with a degree in Vocal Jazz Performance. She also studied voice with McClosky Institute of Voice professor and voice therapist, Lin Wallin Schuller.

A versatile musician, Lisa teaches voice and piano, performs with other musicians, produces her own albums and writes her own songs. Lisa’s original recordings have been licensed to Sony, BMG and Universal. Lisa currently appears in three original productions that pay tribute to divas of the stage on Broadway and Vegas and the Divas of Pop and Jazz. She is also a founding member of the all-female rock band, HRT. In addition to performing, Lisa’s talents extend to teaching through her unique educational program, Jazz for Kids. Lisa has appeared on the Today Show, Canadian reality TV show, Rocker Moms, and has performed with major recording artist, Harry Connick Jr. and Boston Pops conductor, Keith Lockhart.

Solo On The Road

Johnny O'Neal - On The Montreal Scene

Bitrate: MP3@320K/s
Time: 60:22
Size: 138.2 MB
Styles: Piano jazz
Year: 1996
Art: Front

[9:49] 1. Let Me Off Uptown
[9:29] 2. Easy Walker
[6:16] 3. Why Try To Change Me Now
[5:31] 4. Happy Days Are Here Again
[5:19] 5. Just Loving You
[7:40] 6. Overjoyed
[6:12] 7. Come Sunday
[3:56] 8. While The Blood Is Running Warm
[6:07] 9. Homeboy Blues

Pianist Johnny O'Neal displays several sides to his musical personality on this CD. On some tunes, particularly the uptempo romps, he sounds very influenced by Oscar Peterson, yet he also has his own brand of soul, which comes to the forefront on the ballads. During two numbers ("While the Blood Is Running Warm" and, most logically, "Come Sunday"), O'Neal comes across as a top-notch gospel pianist. His forceful and sincere vocalizing on three songs is an acquired taste, but O'Neal is effective on the closing blues. The straight-ahead music, which sometimes co-stars guitarist Russell Malone, has several surprises, including what may be the only instrumental version ever of the Gene Krupa-Anita O'Day hit "Let Me Off Uptown," a somber "Happy Days Are Here Again," and a colorful interpretation of "Come Sunday." Well worth checking out. ~Scott Yanow

On The Montreal Scene