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.
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