Friday, October 25, 2024

ANSWERS TO “HAVE SOME FUN WITH GEORGE'S QUIZZES


  1. How About You
  2. How Are Things In Glocca Morra
  3. How Do You Keep The Music Playing
  4. How Much Is That Doggie In The Window
  5. How About Me
  6. How Are You Fixed For Love
  7. How Little We Know
  8. How Insensitive
  9. How Deep Is The Ocean
  10. How High The Moon
  11. How Long Has This Been Going On

Thursday, October 24, 2024

HAVE SOME FUN WITH GEORGE'S QUIZZES!

  How about some songs which all start with the word “how”. Given a sampling of the lyrics, can you identify the titles?

  1. a Gershwin tune
  2. Kilgary and Kildare
  3. do you make it last
  4. a parrot that talks
  5. it's over, all over
  6. like a glove
  7. the world around us shatters
  8. icy silence
  9. I'll tell you no lie
  10. if you'd come to me soon
  11. I can't define

Monday, October 21, 2024

GEORGE'S BRIEFS:

Paula Maya; Rio De Janeiro

Paula Maya is the real deal, as she comfortably and impressively sings a menu of seven Brazilian songs, mostly new to my ears. Some vocal dubbing actually works quite well here, and it should be added that the singer's accompaniment is on target and highly spirited. It isn't exactly jazz and it's best described as world music, but it's really well performed and that's what counts.

Yellow House Records; 2024; appx. 28 min.


Livio Almeida; Brasilia Sessions

Livio Almeida, probably not related to the late acoustic guitar great Laurindo Almeida, shines on an all original session with a Brazilian emphasis, but with a lot of Jazz Yankee style as well. Everything is very creative and rhythmic and, I must say, even the electric piano sounded good in this context. Zoho Music has specialized in Latin sounds for years, and Almeida and friends serve them well.

Zoho; 2024; appx. 54 min.


Philip Webendoerfer; Tides

This formidable guitarist leads a quartet of saxophone, bass, and drums through a set of eleven original compositions and does so with a very warm and comfortable tone. The writing is accessible and creative, and the group displays an admirable cohesiveness. This is, however, not background music. It is artful material to be absorbed and appreciated.

Shifting Paradigm Records; 2024; appx. 59 min.


Omer Leshem; Play Space

Here is an east coast quintet that plays nine compositions by its leader, tenor sax man Omer Leshem. The emphasis is clearly on aggressive, challenging, and ripping tempos. Impressive solo work abounds here, featuring especially strong work from pianist Moshe Elmakias. Buckle up. This is not music for the feint of heart.

Ubuntu Music; 2024; appx. 54 min


Gunhild Carling Big Band With Strings; Jazz Is My Lifestyle!

Now and then the state of our world calls for some feel good, foot tapping music. And this is it! A trad big band with invigorating soloists, refreshing arrangements, and energetic vocals. It's a big barrel of fun and a day brightener for sure.

Label, year, and times not indicated; probably 2024


Tom Harrell; Alternate Summer

Trumpet maestro Tom Harrell continues to amaze us with ten captivating and often demanding original compositions. His playing mates are mostly present on some tracks while laying out on others. Harrell's brilliant tone remains on full display here and his supporting cast are equally ready for the gig.

High Note; 2024; appx. 60 min.


Matt Panayides; With Eyes Closed

Now here's a terrific guitarist who concentrates primarily on memorable “hits” from such major figures as Joe Henderson, Cedar Walton, Frank Foster, Woody Shaw, and Chick Corea. Into this impressive mix toss in a few standards like “I Fall In Love Too Easily”, “Darn That Dream”, and even “Moon River”. Panayides is true to the tradition featuring exquisite tone and a consistent flow of musicianship.

Pacific Coast Jazz; 2024; 57:02


Thom Rotella; Side Hustle

These “groove discs” must have a loyal following, and here is a good example of the guitar and organ thing. The leader and guitarist is Thom Rotella. Many of the proceedings are assigned to various funky blues items. Two high spirited guests enliven this session, Eric Alexander on tenor sax and Jeremy Pelt on trunpet. Too bad they're only on board for two tracks each. Organ fans, this is your main course!

High Note; 2024; appx, 61 min.


Sunday, October 20, 2024

Jack Wood & Nichaud Fitzgibbon; Movie Magic



Do you remember when movies gave us beautiful melodies and grown up, literate lyrics? Well, here are a couple of singers who present an entire album (can we still call them “albums”?!) of memorable hits from the big screen. Jack Wood is a super good singer in the Jack Jones school, and Nichaud Fitzgibbon adds a brightness of her own. The two sing together on some titles and are featured individually on others. A few highlights include “Make Someone Happy”, “When I Look In Your Eyes”, “The Shadow Of Your Smile”, “That Old Feeling”, “The Shining Sea”, and lots more. Much to like here, and for young people, much to learn.

Jazz Hang Records; 2024; appx. 70 min.

Friday, October 18, 2024

Anne Burnell & Mark Burnell; This Could Be The Start Of Something Big



For twenty-eight years I had the privilege and pleasure of hosting a jazz radio program called High Standards. That title reflected my passion for the Great American Songbook.  Well, judging from this CD, it appears that Anne and Mark Burnell share that feeling. Just take a gander at some of the choices of this skilled singing team. In addition to the title tune we are treated to “I Could Have Danced All Night”, the rarely heard Camelot tune “The Lusty Month of May”, “Isn't This A Lovely Day”, and others. For me, the two nicest compositions were Clifford Brown's classic “Joy Spring”, and a little known gem from Dave Frishberg, “Let's Eat Home”. Clearly, the Burnells are having a very good time! I kinda think you will be too.

Spectrum Music & Video; 2024; appx. 53 min.

Wednesday, October 16, 2024

Neil Adler; Emi's Song


This thoughtful recording hits the bullseye from many considerations. Neil Adler is equally compelling on piano, chromatic harmonica, and as a composer. He also chooses material deserving to be heard more often. For example, Oliver Nelson's lovely offering “Yearning”, or Herbie Hancock's “Tell Me A Bedtime Story”. His deep felling on harmonica is heard on Jimmy Rowles' classic “The Peacocks” and a medley of the treasured standards “Tenderly” and “That's All”. But he turns to piano on a tender grouping of three rarely heard Bill Evans tunes. Not to be overlooked is Adler's chops on Charlie Parker's opus “Donna Lee”. On all these and more, Neil Adler gives us a musical pallet that is most assuredly his own wise, inclusive, and tasteful musical world. Highly recommended and fully satisfying may be an accurate way of describing what happens in listening to Neil Adler. 

EJA Records; 2024; appx. 63 min.

Monday, October 14, 2024

Jeff Rupert; It Gets Better


Let's say your name is Jeff Rupert and you play tenor saxophone. And let's say that somehow you get an opportunity to record with three present day jazz giants. People like Kenny Barron, Peter Washington, and Joe Farnsworth. You'd better jump at the chance, Mr. Rupert! And so, here we are with a Stan Getz-like tenor man and a dream rhythm section. With one exception the tunes are all “blowing session” type originals that swing with authority and are solidly at the heart of creative, wholly satisfying jazz. That one exception is Jimmy Van Heusen's forever tune “Like Someone In Love”. When he's not teaching at the University of Central Florida, Rupert busily plays in the very heart of the jazz tradition. Expressive, gimmick free, real deal sounds like you could have heard on Verve in the late fifties. We need more music like this because it fulfills us, gives us hope, and is darn good from note one to the last. And one more thing: thank you, Kenny Barron, for a career of piano excellence and excitement!

Rupe Media; 2024; appx. 57 min.

Saturday, October 12, 2024

Diego Figueiredo; I Love Samba




Several years ago, I hired acoustic guitarist Diego Figueiredo to play at my concert series at Classic Pianos here in Portland, Oregon. To my surprise we had to add extra chairs to a sold out crowd. Everyone was awestruck that evening, and you will be too when you hear this astounding recording. Diego is from São Paulo, Brazil, and this recording reflects the joy, romanticism, and elegance of Brazilian samba. On the thirteen selections heard here, he plays solo on many, but is helped out by impressive colleagues on bass, drums, and flute on others. To be clear, Diego Figueiredo is a master of Brazilian style acoustic guitar. His music affirms a certain joyousness of life. It is filled with sunshine and beauty and will put a smile on your face.

Arbors Records; 2024; appx. 48 min.


Friday, October 11, 2024

Dave Liebman and the CNY Jazz Orchestra; If A White Horse From Jerusalem...


The unusual title to this recording refers to a four-part suite which opens the material here. The featured soloist is soprano saxophonist Dave Liebman who is less outside and if I may, avant garde, than what I've heard from him previously. Still, the suite is what we once called “experimental”. Now it might be better referred to as complex, dense, and probably for the ears of experienced jazz listeners. After the suite, stay on board for Bernstein's “Somewhere”; Rodgers and Hart's “Where Or When”; and even something called “Hip Hop Shuffle”, and it's more listenable than the name suggests. Some of us may have to stretch a bit, but there's a lot of heavy duty music here. Summon up your courage and give it a shot.

CNY Jazz Central; 2024; appx. 54 min.



Thursday, October 10, 2024

The Planet D Nonet; Echoes of Harlem; A Salute to Duke Ellington, Vol. 2


Edward Kennedy Ellington lives on. It seems really hard to believe that Duke passed  over fifty years ago. But the proof of his artistic musical longevity lies in recordings like this one. This is a step into jazz history with a big band perfectly arranged to remind us of the greatness of Duke Ellington. Most of the tunes examined here are lesser known D E gems with titles like “Flirtbird”, “Addi”, “Juniflip”, “Happy Reunion”, “Azalea”, and “The Shepherd”. Also heard here are Ellington and Billy Strayhorn “hits” like “Rocks In My Bed”, “Blood Count”,  “Caravan”, and “Sophisticated Lady”. On all these and more the incredible Ellington stamp is front and center. Solos abound brilliantly here and the entire project is true to the magical Ellington spirit five decades after he passed on. Let me close by saying that guitar legend Kenny Burrell once did a series of LP's entitled “Ellington Is Forever”. I couldn't say it any better.

Eastlawn Records; probably 2024; 79:23

Tuesday, October 8, 2024

Dred Scott; Cali Mambo

Despite the horribly unfair historical connection with the Dred Scott decision, this happens to be a delightful, rhythmic and satisfying quartet led by pianist Dred Scott along with Tom Beckham, vibraphone; Matt Pavolka, bass; and Moses Patrou, percussion. The music certainly brings back wonderful memories of the classic “Shearing sound” although this group has its own sound and musical credentials. Having said that, the CD opens with “Cali Mambo”, written by---you guessed it---George Shearing! From there, the quartet settles into a very joyful menu of lightly Latin feeling, including “Star Eyes”,  “Poinciana”, “Footprints”, “Manteca”, and other delights. There is a formidable sense of togetherness here and nobody ever steps “out of bounds”. I'm certain that the late Mr. Shearing would be high-fiving this refreshing quartet!

Ropeadope; 2024; appx. 48 min.

Sunday, October 6, 2024

Rose Mallett, Drama Realized


Those of you in or near my generation might remember a bluesy jazz singer named Dinah Washington. Well, along comes Rose Mallett, somewhat in the spirit of Dinah. Here and there she's a bit more contemporary than Dinah but it's not 1958 anymore if you know what I mean. With accompaniment provided by a number of skilled players, Mallett takes on some familiar fare like “Feelin' Good”, “Send In The Clowns”, “My Funny Valentine”, and a number of newer tunes. Her intonation is on target and she comes across as one who “feels” her material and cares about it as well. Rose Mallett covers quite a variety of tempos and moods, all done with enthusiastic presence.

Carrie-On Productions, 2023; appx. 53 min.

Friday, October 4, 2024

ANSWERS:


  1. I Didn't Know What Time It Was
  2. I Don't Know Why
  3. I Believe In You
  4. I Should Care
  5. I Never Knew
  6. I Can't Believe That You're In Love With Me
  7. I Get A Kick Out Of  You
  8. I Got It Bad
  9. I Thought About You

   10. I Remember You


Thursday, October 3, 2024

HAVE SOME FUN WITH GEORGE'S QUIZZES!

Here's yet another group of partial lyrics. Can you identify the song titles?

Hint: Every song begins with the word “I”.


  1. how sublime it was
  2. you thrill me like you do
  3. wisdom and truth
  4. but it just doesn't get me
  5. and pushed the clouds away
  6. you're on my mind
  7. flying too high
  8. Monday rolls around
  9. a shadowy lane
  10. a few kisses ago

Tuesday, October 1, 2024

GEORGE'S BRIEFS:

Tom Keenlyside; Third Street Wobble

This quintet is led by saxophonist Tom Keenlyside in a program of nine original compositions. Keenlyside is joined by trumpet, organ, guitar, and drums. All of the players are nicely featured in well conceived solos, and the nine works are sometimes visited by a funk or Latin presence. All of the writing provides us with distinctive melody lines, impressive improvisation, and a very real feeling of togetherness. These guys all work with joy and instinctive musicianship. Well worth a listen!

Artist Jazz Recordings; 2024; appx. 56 min.


Fernando Huergo Big Band; Relentless

Bassist and leader Fernando Huergo has assembled a stimulating and exciting big band on eleven selections that move and groove with high octane content. There is a definite Latin influence on these works. However, to my ear this is more of a big band outing than your usual Latin aggregation. The musicians are clearly giving it their all and the soloists kick up a powerful storm. This big band is heavy on enthusiasm and talent. There's much to be admired here.

Whaling City Sound; 2024; appx. 76 min.



Greg Skaff; Re-Up

It seems like every other kid in middle school wants to play the guitar. If more of them ended up like Greg Skaff, the world would be better off. Skaff is pure and simply a profound jazz guitarist with exquisite tone, endless ideas, and he is simply a master of his craft. Completing his trio are Ugonna Okegwo, bass, and Jonathan Barber, drums. The three work wonderfully on eight energetic Skaff originals and two long admired jazz classics, Monk's “Green Chimneys” and Duke's rarely heard beauty, “Fleurette Africane”. Greg Skaff and his trio don't need to put extra frosting on the cake. On the contrary, they do everything just right.

Soulmation Records; probably 2024; appx. 40 min.



Bruna Black and John Finbury; Vã Revelação 

Very appealing sounds abound here with the authentically Brazilian vocals of Bruna Black. All of the music is by Grammy nominee John Finbury, a new name to me, but certainly a more than competent composer in this genre. Ms. Black handles the assignment with delightful ease, and her accompaniment puts guitar and piano in the spotlight. High marks are here.

Produced by Emilio D. Miler and John Finbury; 2024; appx. 33 min.


April Varner; April

Singer April Varner managed to come up with no less than eleven tunes with the word April in the title. Some are long time standards and others are her quite well written originals. She's a fine singer with a strong sense of jazz hipness. Her accompaniment is divided between groups led by guitar or piano. By the way, among the familiar songs are April In Paris, Lost April, and of course, I'll Remember April. There is a sweetness and sincerity in Varner's voice and I'd like to hear more from her.

Cellar Music; 2024; appx. 49 min.

Monday, September 30, 2024

Bruno Hubert; Fire Waltz


This has been an outstanding time period for new acquaintances at the piano. Here's yet another one in Bruno Hubert. With his very tightly knit colleagues---James Meger on bass and Joe Poole on drums---Hubert presents a menu of nine selections, mostly from bright lights like Dizzy Gillespie, Charles Mingus, Wayne Shorter, Woody Shaw, and others. But what really stands out in Hubert's playing is the depth and creativity of his improvisational inspiration. He seems to always be offering new but totally accessible turns and detours on the likes of “Con Alma”, “Good Bye Pork Pie Hat”, and “Edda”, to name a few. But Hubert also lends his creative perspective to standards like “I Fall In Love Too Easily”, “Golden Earrings”, “I've Grown Accustomed To Her Face”, and “You And The Night And The Music”. Bruno Hubert is yet another shining light among today's roster of masterful, real deal jazz pianists. This album, with all its intensity and artistry, makes a startling and terrific debut for the Bruno Hubert Trio.

Cellar Music; 2024; appx. 61 min.

Sunday, September 29, 2024

Louis Hayes; Artform Revisited



Perfect album title if you give it just a little bit of thought. The art form is of course, bebop. Just look at the list of composers: Dizzy, Bird, John Lewis, Billy Strayhorn, and one surprise, Bobby Troup. In case you didn't know it, Louis Hayes is 87 years old. As is sometimes said, “he was there”, having worked with Oscar, Dexter, Sonny Rollins, Kenny Burrell, and many more. Now here he is in the company of veritable youngsters Abraham Burton, tenor sax; Steve Nelson, vibes; David Hazeltine, piano; Dezron Douglas, bass. The tunes, mostly bop classics, include “Tour De Force”, “Milestones”, “My Little Suede Shoes”, “A Flower Is A Lovesome Thing”, “Dewey Square”, and more. From the pop world of long ago, there's “You're Looking At Me” and even the Sinatra hit, “Young At Heart”. Needless to say, all the players are at the top of their game, playing music that we all hold so fondly in our hearts and memories. Louis Hayes, thank you for staying in the game.

Savant; 2024; appx. 51 min.


Ken Peplowski; Live At Mezzrow

How nice it is to see Ken Peplowski back making great music after dealing with concerning health challenges. Peplowski is of course one of the very few remaining monster clarinet players in the jazz world. He also plays a mean tenor sax, making him a legit double threat. On this most welcome session he's joined by an all star lineup of Ted Rosenthal, piano; Martin Wind, bass; and Willie Jones III, drums. The group's choices are all first class and include “Beautiful Love”, “All The Things You Are”, “The Shadow Of Your Smile”, and even a T. Monk surprise, “Bright Mississippi”. But it doesn't stop there. A rarity by Hank Jones called “Vignette”, a Duke Ellington bright spot, “Who Knows”, and “Here's To Life”, a gorgeous ballad that I remember from the late Shirley Horn, are also album plums. Ken P. is back, and as great as ever. How nice for real music lovers!

Cellar Music Group; 2024; appx. 60 min.


Saturday, September 28, 2024

Eric Alexander & Mike Ledonne; Together

This incredible duo session marks something of a departure for the gifted tenor player Eric Alexander. First, to my knowledge it is his initial release in a duo setting. And in Mike Ledonne, he works with a pianist filled with flowing ideas and passion. Second, Alexander does not play tenor exclusively here. The opener will grab your attention immediately. It's called “For Mabes” and it's a demanding, challenging roller coaster ride. The twosome then settle into three standards: “Autumn In New York”, “Round Midnight”, and “I'm In The Mood For Love”. Each has something that gives it a new look. It might be tempo, jet-like improvisation, or simply the ideal communication between the two artists. The album continues with tenderness in Ledonne's solo on his ballad “Lost But Not Forgotten”, and that is followed by some high flying originals. All of them illustrate the amazing oneness of these two players. For instance, “Mutation” seemed to be loosely based on Sonny Rollins' “Airegin”. The last of the standards is “The Nearness Of You” beautifully interpreted by the two. It should be clearly stated here that this is high artistry and an amazing meeting of two masters of their craft. You'll be glued to your chair by this one!

Cellar Music Group; 2024; appx. 47 min.

Friday, September 27, 2024

Tardo Hammer; Right Now!

Quite a few years ago I was fortunate enough to be able to hire Tardo Hammer to play a gorgeous Yamaha at Classic Pianos here in Portland. Imagine my surprise when he called me recently to tell me he was going to send his new CD my way. I wouldn't describe Tardo as a minimalist; it's just that he plays ALL the right notes---in the very heart of bebop. On this new release he works to perfection with veterans Lee Hudson on bass and Steve Williams on drums. With shades of heroes like Bud, Monk, Barry Harris, and Elmo Hope, Hammer's exquisite touch and super jazz feeling are outstanding on many tunes you know well. Among them are “I Didn't Know What Time It Was”, “They Didn't Believe Me”, “My Ship”, and the rarely heard “I See Your Face Before Me”. From the jazz Real Book, how about “Dear Old Stockhom” and “Epistrophy”. To complete a stunning, straight ahead effort, there's “Lonely Town”, a Tardo original called “Moonlight”, and the surprise of the session, the Johnny Mercer hit from way back, “I'm An Old Cowhand”! This CD is something of a throwback in that it's a gimmick free, real deal jazz trio playing with excitement, charm, and cohesiveness. I might just conclude by saying that If I Had A Hammer, it would be Tardo!

Jazz Bird Records; 2024; appx. 70 min.

Thursday, September 26, 2024

Petra van Nuis; From Me To You

I've been patiently awaiting this recording for quite a while and I'll tell you why. When Petra van Nuis released her initial CD a few years back, I was spellbound by her natural ability to communicate the meaning of a lyric. She doesn't simply sing the song. She tells the story, much like Billie Holiday, Susannah McCorkle, and Lee Wiley, to name a few. Her pianist, Dennis Luxion, is completely on board throughout this intimate performance. Petra's well considered choices are mostly from the American Songbook with such winning fare as “I Got Lost In His Arms”, “I Wish I Were In Love Again”, “Too Darn Hot”, and “Everything I've Got”. A few surprises included rarely heard winners like “You Better Go Now”, “Last Tango In Paris”, and even “Whatever Lola Wants”! For tenderness and sheer emotion, try “Take Me In Your Arms”. On all these and a few lesser known but thoughtful selections, Petra and Dennis have scored once again. Intense feeling, sincerity, clarity, and rare communication---it's all here. You MUST discover Petra van Nuis. You can thank me later.

String Damper Records; 2024; appx. 50 min.


Tuesday, April 16, 2024

ANSWERS - Irving Berlin Titles:


     1.    Let's Face The Music And Dance

     2.    How About Me

     3.    Cheek To Cheek

     4.    How Deep Is The Ocean?

     5.    The Song Is Ended

     6.    It's A Lovely Day Today

     7.    Change Partners

     8.    I've Got My Love To Keep Me Warm

     9.    Blue Skies

     10.  Alexander's Ragtime Band

Monday, April 15, 2024

Have Some Fun With George's Quiz!

Here are some songs written by Irving Berlin. Given a chunk of lyrics, how many titles can you identify?  


    1.    before the fiddlers have fled 

    2.    and maybe a baby

    3.    the cares that hung around me

    4.    how far is the journey

    5.    the melody lingers on  

    6.    whatever you've got to do  

    7.    the same fortunate man

  1.   weather the storm
  2.   smilin' at me

    10.  c'mon along

Geoffrey Dean; Foundations

Foundations is the ideal title for this Washington, DC based quartet. Why? Because they play a beautiful, much admired sense of tradition, balance, swing, and sensitivity. Pianist Gregory Dean is the leader and he is joined by Justin Copeland, trumpet; Harish Raghavan, bass; and Eric Binder, drums. Their approach is lyrical, melodic, and straight down the middle of the boulevard. This album is primarily polished originals and jazz classics like “Blue Minor” and a stirring, very slow “Naima”. Nothing flashy here. Just real deal jazz in the heart of the art form.

Amp Music & Records; 2024; appx. 43 min.

Friday, April 12, 2024

GEORGE'S BRIEFS:

Atley King; Unconditional It seems like we don't see many CDs under the leadership of a vibraphonist these days. So you might want to check out Atley King's vibes on eight original, graceful, and lyrical creations. Brad Turner's flugelhorn adds a special luscious presence here. The one standard is John Coltrane's gorgeous classic “Naima”. Lots of sensitive content here. Listen closely. Cellar; 2023; appx. 55 min.


Sam Ross; Live At The Mira Room Vol. II

Sam Ross shows a very spirited, savvy piano style on three selections, but he and his group turn on the electricity with Fender Rhodes and electric bass on two more. On their next recording, Ross and friends might consider more than just the five tunes included here.

Self produced; probably 2023; appx. 30 min.


Ed Johnson & Novo Tempo

This is not a jazz album per se. But it features for the most part pleasant, nicely composed and well orchestrated material with generous acoustic guitar work, and both male and female vocals throughout. It has a lilting, Latin feel, maybe somewhere along the lines of Sergio Mendes from way back. A nice blend of world music and pop sensibility, and it's all very pleasant on the ears.

Cumulus Records; 2023; appx 58 min.


Doug MacDonald; Sextet Session

It seems that guitarist Doug MacDonald changes up with each new CD. This time he puts together a very swinging sextet on several originals and a few standards like “Whispering”; “You've Changed”; and believe it or not, Lawrence Welk's theme song “Bubbles In The Wine”! MacDonald is a terrific straight ahead guitarist, and his colleagues all keep this a well grooved date.

Self produced; 2023; times not indicated.


Friday, April 5, 2024

Ulysses Owens Jr. And Generation Y; A New Beat

If on occasion you're looking for a boppy, bluesy, soulful band in the spirit of the Adderley brothers, vibrant drummer Ulysses Owens Jr. has assembled a group bringing the groove directly into your welcome ears. I would assume that all of the players are young cats because all the names on this date are new to me. Cannonball's “Sticks” gets the session off to a rousing start and the power and punch never really lets up. The outstanding solo work is fiery and passionate throughout. Make no mistake about that. Most of the tunes are originals by heroes like Louis Armstrong, Jackie McLean, Roy Hargrove, Ray Bryant, George Cables, and more. This is tough guy jazz at its finest. A state of the art blowing session where every player is a star. Dig it! 

Cellar; 2024; appx. 53 min.

Monday, April 1, 2024

Vanisha Gould And Steve McCarthy

I can't explain it but I know it when I hear it. That to me is the difference between a jazz singer and a pop singer (even a good one). Without question, Vanisha Gould is a jazz singer. You can hear it from the opening of Bernstein and Sondheim's “Cool”. To this real deal singer, add the tasty, intimate piano of  Chris McCarthy, and you have something warm and personal. One look at some of the titles here and you'll understand that Vanisha Gould has done her homework. How about “What A Little Moonlight Can Do”, “No Moon At All”, “Monk's Dream”, and a couple of rarities in McCoy Tyner's “Aisha” and a stunning ballad done long ago by Billie Holiday called “No More”. Vanisha Gould is the jazz singer personified and Chris McCarthy provided accompaniment a la perfecto! Don't miss out on this one.

Fresh Sound New Talent; 2024; appx. 38 min.

Friday, March 29, 2024

Jill McCarron; Gin

If you're Jill McCarron and you're looking for something to raise your listeners' eyebrows on your CD, how about bringing in Vincent Herring on alto and tenor sax and Michael Brecker on trumpet? Well that's exactly what groovy pianist McCarron did. Of the thirteen tracks played here, Herring appears on four and Brecker on just one. McCarron herself is a bluesy, boppy, altogether terrific leader and pianist who chooses a number of rarely heard tunes by heroic players from the past. For example, there's Horace Silver's “The Jody Grind”; Kenny Dorham's “Monaco”; Gene Harris' “Blue Bells”; Bill Evans' “Waltz For Debby”; Junior Mance's “Jubilation”; plus some sophisticated originals by McCarron and various sidemen. Jill McCarron has it all at her fingertips. I'm convinced she's headed for a lengthy career, playing so exquisitely.

Jazz Bird Records; 2024; appx. 59 min.

Monday, March 25, 2024

The Rob Dixon / Steve Allee Quintet; Standards Deluxe

This is in a way, two albums in one. The first is devoted to forever-type standards featuring six tracks with extremely talented singer Amanda King. She's a real standout on “Caravan”, “Love For Sale”, “The Very Thought Of You”, “On Green Dolphin Street”, “Sway”, and “Our Love Is Here To Stay”. Then the proceedings take a complete turn and the tunes are originals by Rob Dixon, the sax player on the date. His writing is accessible, lyrical, and swinging. So we have two albums in one. An unusual concept to be sure, but both portions work so well that you'll be glad you put the disc in your player.

Self produced; 2023; appx. 60 min.

Friday, March 22, 2024

Xavier Hellmeier; X-Man In New York

Oh my goodness! Here are some of what I call “young veterans” who have come to the conclusion that there was some song writing worth revisiting in 2024. As a result, the X-man maneuvered some of New York's finest into the studio in Jeremy Pelt, trumpet; Eric Alexander, tenor sax; David Hazeltine, piano; and Peter Washington, bass. They deliver the big city goods on “I Could Write A Book”, “The Good Life”. “Midnight Waltz”; “The Nearness Of You”; and “Tune Up”, among others. I must say that Pelt and Alexander are a dream combination, and Hazeltine's piano is always on target. If you're still out there buying a CD now and then, this five-star session should be on your short list.

Cellar; 2023; appx. 53 min.

Monday, March 18, 2024

Sylvia Brooks; Sylvia Brooks Live with Christian Jacob

Sylvia Brooks leaves nothing to chance. She's a “belter” with a strong leaning in the direction of the blues. Recorded live at Herb Alpert's Vibrato Jazz Grill in Los Angeles, Brooks puts it across with style and when needed, power. Her very able accompaniment is provided by a quintet led by pianist Christian Jacob. Ms. Brooks makes it clear that she's hip to the American Songbook with choices like “When The Sun Comes Out”, “Blues In The Night”, “Guess Who I Saw Today”, “Night And Day”, and “Come Rain Or Come Shine”, among others. Here's hoping Sylvia Brooks continues climbing the jazz ladder. She's certainly worth hearing.

Rhombus Records; 2023; appx. 43 min.


Friday, March 15, 2024

Steve Ash; You And The Night

Lucky for all of us who still love a jazz piano, here's one to keep an eye out for. Pianist Steve Ash is a new name to me but he has the essence of the art form at his disposal. His trio is completed by veterans Harvey S on bass and Alvester Garnett on drums. The trio keeps the jazz flame alive on much admired material like “You And The Night And The Music”, “I'm Just A Lucky So And So”. “For Heaven's Sake”, “Dream Dancing”, and some bop staples by guys with names such as Parker, Powell, Tyner, and Shorter. Does all that sound like it just might fit the bill? Darn right!

Cellar; 2024; appx. 44 min.

Monday, March 11, 2024

Tucker Brothers; Live At Chatterbox

The Tucker Brothers, Joel on guitar and Nick on bass, co-lead this invigorating piano-less quartet for jazz lovers in Indianapolis. With colleagues Sean Imboden on tenor sax and Carrington Clinton on drums, the quartet performs seven selections, most of which are generous in length. Four of them are well known to you: “Skylark”, “Caravan”, “You And The Night And The Music”, and “I Got Rhythm”. There's a hard bop intensity here and perhaps it would be safe to say this is not for the Lawrence Welk fan club. 

So here's hard hitting, in the groove, Indiana jazz men putting it out there with no holds barred.

Self produced; probably 2024; appx. 56 min.

Friday, March 8, 2024

Neal Caine; Skip To My Lou

I kept waiting for the title tune to present itself like the “Skip To My Lou” from childhood. It really never happened but what DID was a mischievous quirky melody which I liked immediately. Bassist and leader Neal Caine mixes in some not often heard material like “Chim Chim Cheree”, “Goodbye Pork Pie Hat” and “If I Only Had A Brain” with some intense and creative originals as well. All three trio members really turn up the heat here and yet I found this music to be quite accessible. Special thanks to pianist Andrew Fisher who was on target throughout. Drummer Henry Connerway III was alternately subtle and fiery when needed. This is a very well integrated trio which sounds like they've worked together for quite some time. 

Self produced; 2023; times not indicated


Tuesday, March 5, 2024

Peter Hand; Blue Topaz


Are you into the tradition of the blowing sessions? It entails mostly original compositions with very generous solo work for all. If so, you're going to enjoy this hot cooking date led by guitarist Peter Hand. The players heard here seemingly touch upon the dependable Blue Note type groove with more than a smattering of blues and a nod to lyricism as well. It is, to be sure, a sort of jazz we grew up with and learned to love. For the record, the one standard on the session is a winner, “One For My Baby”. There's no attempt here at showmanship or anything extraneous. It's simply very skilled musicians doing what they do at a consistently high level. This is what the art form is all about. Peter Hand and friends are all doing the right stuff!

Whaling City Sound; 2024; appx. 58 min.

PS – I know I'm hinting at my age, but it's worth it when I tell you that the one tune I left out in the above review was a 1950's pop hit for a female vocal group called The Chordettes. No doubt some of you remember Mr. Sandman! Reborn here and what fun!



Friday, March 1, 2024

Andy Pratt; Trio


If like me you place a lot of value in revered tunes from the great American Songbook, you should check out guitarist Andy Pratt's excellent trio. His no frills, no gimmicks approach is completed by bassist Joe Policastro and drummer Phil Gratteau. Pratt sings on many of the selections in a pleasant musicianly manner. You'll know many of the tunes and among them are a few rare surprises, Consider the Gershwin classic “Soon”, the Tony Bennett “semi-hit” “When Joanna Loved Me”, a pop hit from the '50's called “Patricia”, and lots more. I for one would prefer a bit more of Pratt's super guitar work and a little less vocalizing. However, it was an upper to hear these songs from the past. Nice going, guys!

Tuesday, February 27, 2024

Charles Chen; Charles, Play!

There's one new name here and that's the leader and very swinging pianist on the date, Charles Chen. The remaining members of the quartet have honored the jazz art for a long time. Consider Peter Washington on bass and Kenny Washington on drums. But the big pleasant surprise is tenor sax man Ralph Moore. I've wondered about Moore for a couple of decades. He seemed to have disappeared, so what a delight to once again hear his very personal, in-the-pocket tone working with the above named threesome! Pianist Chen shows his prowess both on piano and as a composer on five of the selections heard here. He is featured on the standard “These Foolish Things”, and it's delicate, sensible, and perfect. Among his originals, I was particularly impressed with Chen's “Golson”. It focuses upon a medium tempo delight with a very lyrical melody line---just the way tenor giant Benny Golson used to write them. Really, all the originals were standouts. Other familiar fare are “How About You”, “Be My Love” (remember Mario Lanza?), and Charlie Parker's “Passport”. All told, this is the real thing. Welcome back to Ralph Moore and a high five to Charles Chen and the Washingtons!

Cellar; 2024; appx. 48 min.

Thursday, January 25, 2024

Pianists Alphabetically

 Alphabetically, here are some jazz pianists I admire. Undoubtedly, I've overlooked a few. If you care to add names to this list, contact me at jazzfens13@gmail.com.

Thank you,
George Fendel
 
Toshiko Akiyoshi
Monty Alexander
Ehud Asherie
Kenny Barron
Count Basie
Shelly Berg
Alan Broadbent
Dave Brubeck
John Bunch
Dave Catney
Bill Charlap
Sonny Clark
Nat Cole
Duke Ellington
Bill Evans
Tommy Flanagan
Russ Freeman
Don Friedman
Red Garland
Errol Garner
Lorraine Geller
Darrell Grant
Tardo Hammer
Hampton Hawes
Tamir Hendelman
Eddie Higgins
Jutta Hipp
Elmo Hope
Keith Jarrett
Pete Jolly
Hank Jones
Oliver Jones
Roger Kellaway
Lou Levy
Adam Makovich
Pete Malinverni
Dodo Marmarosa
Jon Mayer
Bill Mays
Marion McPartland
Mulgrew Miller
Thelonious Monk
Dado Moroni
Phineas Newborn
Tony Pacini
Jeb Patton
Dave Peck
Oscar Peterson
Enrico Pieranunzi
Randy Porter
Sidney Porter
Bud Powell
Andre Previn
John Proulx
Jean Ronne
Jimmy Rowles
George Shearing
Don Shirley
Billy Strayhorn
Art Tatum
Billy Taylor
Lennie Tristano
McCoy Tyner
Fats Waller
Cedar Walton
Gerry Wiggins
James Williams
Jessica Williams
Claude Williamson
Richard Wyands
And finally, Denny Zeitlin