HAVE SOME FUN WITH GEORGE'S QUIZZES!

 Here are partial lyrics from songs you know. How many titles can you identify? Answers tomorrow...

1. my heart grows tipsy
2. when the kids grow up
3. gloom and misery everywhere
4. footsteps that you hear
5. I'm a little lamb
6. I haven't got a chance
7. I become more mad about you
8. a sigh is just a sigh
9. that dream is here beside me
10. down deep in my heart
11. all glow again
12. my heart seems to know
13. I'll tell you no lie
14. and when you caught my eye
15. let me take you by the hand

GEORGE'S BRIEFS

Robert Jospé; The Night Sky

If Latin rhythms are your cup of tea, you'll want to give this spirited quartet a listen. Led by drummer Robert Jospé, the group gives us an impressive journey on nine original selections and two standards, Leonard Bernstein's “Some Other Time” and Billy Strayhorn's “Take The A Train”. Kudos to all in this foursome for their tasty and consistent music making.

Self-produced; 2026; appx. 49 min.

Daphne Roubini; Whiskey Scented Kisses

Singer Daphne Roubini's Lady Day-influenced vocals carry strong feelings on seven songs new to me---six of those seven are her originals---and two long admired gems, “You Leave Me Breathless” and “This Year's Kisses”. Roubini is backed by a subtle and well arranged ensemble. The real good news is that some of these “new” tunes have an “old” feel---much like treasures from say, the 1940's. Nicely done, Daphne. And thank you, Ms. Billie.

Cellar Music Group; 2026; appx. 32 min.

The Paul Keller Orchestra; Thank You Notes: The Music Of Gregg Hill

By golly, here's yet another recording featuring the music of Gregg Hill. He has apparently connected with a wide range of jazz orchestras, each of which has released a CD of his stimulating work. In this case, it's The Paul Keller orchestra, performing Hill's impressive orchestrations for a big band. You're going to like Keller's fresh, high spirited renditions of Hill's music.

Cold Plunge Records; 2026; appx. 60 min.

Brian Dickinson with the Penderecki String Quartet; October Songs

If you're ever seeking something combining both jazz and classical content, look no further than this combination of jazz trio and string quartet. The leader and pianist on the session is Brian Dickinson. He also serves as composer of all selections but one. There is enviable blissful and beautiful content here. It all sounds tailor made for both the classical and jazz communities. Great concept and gorgeous music. Highly recommended!

Cellar Music Group; 2026; appx. 52 min.

Arvind Ramdas; Here We Go

I like the title of this CD because it doesn't shout, brag, or overstate the fact that marvelous musicians are here to state their case. From there, it's up to you. Leadership here is provided by drummer Arvind Ramdas. He assembles a straight ahead, in-the-pocket quintet which plays it all for the pure joy and tradition of the art of jazz. The music is playful, intimate, and challenging while remaining accessible and true to the assigned task. Solos are perfectly executed and outstanding musicianship is the call of the day. The seven tunes played here include sometimes surprising but welcome choices composed by luminaries like Kenny Dorham, Thelonious Monk, Horace Silver, Vernon Duke, Peter Bernstein, Roy Hargrove and more---mostly encompassing bop flavored delights. The single standard on the date is an exquisite take on “Autumn In New York”. It is all heavyweight jazz making. Indeed, here we go!

Cellar Music Group; 2026; appx. 50 min.

Bernie Senensky; Duos

Close friends in Vancouver, B.C. have for years hipped me to Bernie Senensky, a pillar of Canada's jazz community for a long, long time. Well, now I get my chance to acquaint myself with a very intriguing and satisfying recording. It features Senensky's piano combined with an outstanding bevy of tenor or alto sax players, all in duo performances. As for Senensky, I hear a lot of Bud Powell-like chops in his distinctive bop drenched piano. The session features a different saxophonist on every track, including Eric Alexander, Vincent Herring, P.J. Perry, Cory Weeds, and a host of other gifted reed stars. Most of the selections are credited to the leader. The well known choices are “I Hear A Rhapsody”, “I Thought About You”, “In My Life”, and “My One And Only Love”. Senensky “defines” bop piano here, and his numerous partners simply ride the wave on a joyous jazz journey.

Cellar Music Group; 2026; appx. 49 min.

Jesse Davis Quartet; Reflections

Here's your chance to discover a first class quartet led by alto sax man Jesse Davis working with a dream rhythm section of Spike Wilner, piano; John Webber, bass; and Lewis Nash, drums. Four of the seven selections here are hearty real deal originals from the leader. Additionally we are treated to Thelonious Monk's triumphs in the title tune, “Reflections”, and “Evidence”. The surprise of the set is the quartet's take on a real oldie, “Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans”. Sound wise, he is in the midst of the tradition. Certainly he is influenced by Charlie Parker and the likes of Sonny Stitt. In other words, the real good stuff---first note to the last. Cellar Records, I am convinced, is a major player in this era for conserving and celebrating the tradition of jazz that you and I have loved for so many years.

Cellar Music Group; 2026; appx. 57 min.

Danny Sinoff; Make Someone Happy

In more than thirty years of writing jazz reviews, it seems as though I receive perhaps ten female vocalists for every ONE from a male singer. So considering that, welcome Danny Sinoff. A singer who not only chooses great material, but does so with a strong natural jazz essence. A big plus here is that Sinoff also accompanies himself on piano. His colleagues are A+ throughout as they wend their way through “Taking A Chance On Love”, “Three Little Words”, “I Won't Dance”, “Mood Indigo”, “Charade”, “Black Coffee”, and a Sinatra vehicle, “All I Need Is The Girl”, among others. Putting it simply, Danny Sinoff has that thing going that usually can't be taught---the leanings and explorations of a jazz singer. Give him a try!

Cellar Music Group; 2026; appx. 44 min.

Brian Lynch; Torch Bearers

How nice to hear trumpet maven Brian Lynch on a recording including a mix of musicians that are somewhat surprising. Consider this: depending on the track of choice, there are three pianists and two drummers. But they are all hip and ready on a session mainly comprised of originals. The celebrated young singer Samara Joy gets a chance to strut her stuff on two tracks. In addition, the familiar titles include “Luminoso” by Barry Harris, plus “But Beautiful” and “Blue And Boogie”. A consistent high point here is the alto sax of Charles McPherson who earns lots of solo opportunities. And don't forget Mr. Lynch. His trumpet prowess remains superb and right down the center of mainstream boulevard. This is great music with top tier people to play it. Sounds like a welcome meeting of creative minds to me.

Holistic Music Works; 2026; appx. 60 min.

April Varner; Ella

You're likely to be in agreement that Ella Fitzgerald is considered by many to be the greatest female jazz vocalist ever. So let's give singer April Varner the courage to take on a project like this. Good thing, because amazingly, Vainer possesses much of the vocal magic we long fell in love with from Ella. With an excellent big band to work with, Ms. Varner captures the “Ella thing” to near perfection. Ella would have been giddy to hear, among others, “Dream A Little Dream Of Me”, “Night And Day”, “Cheek To Cheek”, and my personal fave, “Mr. Paganini”. So hurrah, thank you, and let's hear a lot more from a refreshing talent in April Varner.

Cellar Music Group; 2026; appx. 40 min.

Ulysses Owens, Jr.; Around The World With U

Don't miss out on your chance to inhale some scorching hard bop with all hands on deck getting ready to spin your head around! Drummer Ulysses Owens, Jr, is the leader on this smokin' session of eleven tunes including three bristling originals and two standards that have survived long lifetimes, Diz's medley of “Bebop” and “Confirmation”, and Hoagy Carmichael's classic “Stardust”. Many people grew up with that kind of musical excitement. The reason it's still around today is that it's so artistically relevant. Truly representative of the jazz art, these young veterans carry on an honored tradition. Just know that the music is safe in their hands. And talented hands they are!

Cellar Music Group; 2026; appx. 55 min.

Isabella Isherwood; The Sweetest Sounds

It took an initial glance at the tune list of this session and I immediately noticed that the opener was Bob Dorough's “Devil May Care”. “Here's someone who gets it”, I thought. Her name is Isabella Isherwood, and her vocals and piano lead an in-the-pocket rhythm section of guitar, bass, and drums. Isherwood hits the target on an even dozen tunes including a rather brisk version of “Till There Was You”; plus “This Time The Dream's On Me”; “My Buddy”; a racehorse tempo on “The Song Is You”; “Teach Me Tonight”; and more. I would have locked the door on “Don't Think Twice, It's All Right”. It somehow didn't fit in with the other choices. I will refrain from becoming overly picky. Isabella Isherwood has given us an extremely well thought out album loaded with quality vocals and premium accompaniment. 

Sabrina Records; 2026; appx. 50 min.

Hendryk Meurkens; Samba Tonto

How very nice to hear the result of harmonica expert Hendryk Meurkens' latest excursion to a recording studio in what seems like quite a spell. In a setting configuration, Meurkens delivers a resonant, often captivating performance primarily devoted to brisk Latin tempos, but for very good measure, there are gorgeous takes on “The Summer Knows”, and “My Romance”. For me, the big winner is a real rarity called “Surf Board” by Antonio Carlos Jobim. It's a pleasure to hear it once again. To be clear, Hendryk Meurkens is always at his best. So it's no surprise that once again, he's exactly in that sometimes tender and beautiful, and other times in that exhilarating and resplendent spot. 

Cellar Music Group; 2026; 53 min.

Chris Aschman; Volcanic

Right off the bat, let's be clear that Chris Aschman is a terrifically talented trumpet player. In a setting including seven other colleagues, (not everyone is on every track), Aschman and company perform seven original compositions with a decidely contemporary focus. There's some electric content with vibes, keyboards, organ, and something mysteriously referred to as “electronic valve instrument”. Wonder what that is! Fortunately, all of this electronic current is not distracting or intrusive. It comes off as more fitting where Aschman's roots may have been. In any case, he blows a major league trumpet and that alone makes for an upbeat high flying sort of gathering of like-minded musicians.

Probably self produced; year and times not indicated.

Cyger & Butterworth; Plaid Pants

This group kind of feels like your favorite aweater: Serviceable and comfortable. Also, there are well written originals on this session. As a matter of fact there are eight of them, co-led by Ron Cyger on saxophones and flute, and Brent Butterworth on bass, guitar, ukulele, and percussion. The material is very accessible with catchy melody lines and a consistently impressive ensemble sound. The entire session gives one the feeling of a refreshing, cool beverage on a hot summer day. An old simple idea is at work on this date: play the music you love and everything will work out just fine.

Outrageous8 Records; probably 2026; appx. 47 min.

ANSWERS;

1. Embraceable You
2. The Folks Who Live On The Hill
3. Stormy Weather
4. Laura
5. Someone To Watch Over Me
6. A Fine Romance
7. The More I See You
8. As Time Goes By
9. Long Ago And Far Away
10. The Song is You
11. Taking A Chance On Love
12. Love Walked In
13. How Deep Is The Ocean
14. That Old Feeling
15. Alexander's Ragtime Band

Charles Ruggiero; Charles Ruggiero Plays Monk Live! At The Baked Potato

Thelonious Monk was a totally unique hero at what would become jazz history, through his immediately identifiable piano style and “gotta be Monk” compositions. Monk was a beloved monster. On this live date, his music is celebrated by a trio of Bob Reynolds on tenor sax, Mike Gurrola on bass, and Ruggiero on drums. They give us five Monk classics, mostly in lengthy stretched out blowing sessions. Just so you know, the five T.M. Tunes taken on here are “Monk's Dream”, “Let's Cool One”, “Evidence”, “Green Chimneys”, and “Misterioso”. The jazz art world would have been lacking without Monk's important presence. Proof lies in this altogether accurate example of Monk's mastery.

 RMF Records; 2026; appx. 26 min.

Answers:

1. Long Ago And Far Away
2. I Didn't Know What Time It Was
3. How About You
4. The More I See You
5. Just Friends
6. Don't Get Around Much Anymore
7. I'll Be Around
8. A Nightingale Samg In Berkeley Square
9. In The Still Of The Nightingale
10. My Romance

HAVE SOME FUN WITH GEORGE'S QUIZZES!

 The following are lyric portions from well known songs. How many titles can you identify? Answers tomorrow...

1. that dream is here beside me
2. how sublime it was
3. a Gershwin tune
4. more mad about you
5. this isn't the ending
6. they crowded the floor
7. drop a line
8. puzzled moon
9. the world is in slumber
10. no month of May

GEORGE'S BRIEFS

Ron Rieder; Compositions In Blue And Other HuesWelcome to the fresh invigorating new compositions of composer Ron Rieder. Right out of the history book of what jazz art is all about, Rieder's eleven originals are played by a perfectly balanced quintet of tenor sax, trumpet, and a rhythm section apparently led by bassist John Lockwood. This is what jazz was all about in say, 1958! Everyone hits the mark with exciting solo work, and all the ensemble passages are spot-on big time. We need more flowing, happy jazz in our lives. Well here it is! Kudos to Mr. Ron Rieder and friends. 

Self-produced; 2025; 51:39.

Rick Roe; Wake Up Call: The Music of Gregg Hill

Over the last year or more, several CD's, each by a different artist, have come out playing the compositions of Gregg Hill. If you're lucky enough to acquire any of them, you'll find this music to be very cheerful, positive, eminently listenable, and loaded with effervescent personality. Simply said, I would think Mr. Hill might pose the question, “Why shouldn't jazz be happy to the ear much of the time?”

Cold Plunge Records; 2025; appx. 48 min.

Jeremy Pelt; Our Community Will Not Be Erased

It's clear by now that trumpet sensation Jeremy Pelt has entered the all-star circle of premier jazz musicians. Here he is with an equally gifted cast playing of nine of his own compositions. One can hear the spirit of Miles nearby as Pelt and his peerless pals provide us with exceptional, excitingly conceived perfection. This one will most likely land somewhere on my “Best of 2026”.

High Note; 2026; appx 42 min.

Michael Moody; The Ecstasy Of Love

There were no liner notes included with this CD, but our gratitude to singer Michael Moody for giving his all on a collection of “forever” tunes like “The Nearness Of You”, “Embraceable You”, “Unforgettable” “So Easy To Love”, “Body And Soul”, “Good Morning Heartache”, and much more. Kudos also to Paul Bollenback, guitar and Neal “Sugar” Caine, bass, on this session.

Self produced; probably 2025; song list and times not indicated

Brad Schrader; Late Nights

In the same spirit as my review of Michael Moody, singer Brad Schrader is the guy you might enjoy hearing in an intimate hotel bar. His choice of tunes? Well how about “Time After Time”,”I Wish I Knew”, It's All Right With Me”, “It Never Entered My Mind”, and “Quiet Nights”, among others. Once again, very little info about accompanying artists here, but be assured, Schrader gives it his best.

Self produced; probably 2025; appx. 28 min. 

Maja Jaku; Blessed & Bewitched

Singer Maja Jaku brings us her gift of on target intonation and a sense of jazz mystery perhaps reflecting the opposite emotions expressed in the album's title. The two well known choices are really good ones: “Never Let Me Go” and “Everything Must Change”. Her accompaniment is piano, and it's creative jazz from note one. To be clear, here's a singer from whom we need to hear more.

Self produced; 2025; appx. 41 min.

Dave Stryker; Blue Fire

Guitarist Dave Stryker is a well established purveyor of the funky sound of guitar-organ groups. On this session his trio takes the usual number of blues based originals. But they take a welcome little detour on these choices you'll know quite well: “Dexterity”, the Charlie Parker classic; and the album highlight, “Summer Night”. Fans of the guitar-organ approach will gobble this up!

Strikezone Records; 2026; appx. 50 min.

Erica von Kleist; Picc Pocket

Well now---35 years of jazz reviews and here it is. My first album led by a piccolo player! And guess what? It works to perfection. Erica von Kleist and her piano, bass, and  drums crew (with a couple of guests here and there) play it “for serious” on a half-dozen sparkling straight ahead originals that are the real deal throughout. I would have said that it can't be done. But I would have been left in the dark. Nice going, Erica and company. You pulled this one off with blue ribbons. And for the record, I love this album title, “Picc Pocket”!

Self-produced; 2025; appx. 34 min.

Dave Schumacher; Agua Con Gas

This oddly titled but extremely well performed session features the leadership and baritone sax of Dave Schumacher and a very skilled and seemingly large ensemble. Their musical inspiration here is definitely in a Latin groove on nine entries, most of which are distinctive originals. Schumacher and company manage to find strong jazz continuity in their Latin emphasis. That and first quality musicianship make this session unique and well worth placing into your CD player.

Cubeye Music; 2025; appx. 55 min.

The Interplay Jazz Orchestra; Bite Your Tongue

On this set of jazz reviews, it appears that big bands have “taken the gold” (to use a phrase from the recent Winter Olympics). The Interplay Jazz Orchestra stays on very literate, very cool, and consistently quality musicianship. The menu here contains both bright, hearty originals and standards like “Night And Day”, “My Foolish Heart”, and even the oldie “It's Been A Long Long Time”! Great fun and worth both of your ears!

Probably self produced; 2026; times not indicated.

Jack Wood; For Every Man There's A Woman

Singer Jack Wood generously takes on no less than fifteen songs on this pleasant journey into mostly revered standards and a few worthwhile but lesser known choices. From the familiar side of the ledger comes “I Only Have Eyes For You”, “The More I See You”, “Ruby”, “Lover”, and more. Just imagine a nice, quiet, all-grown-up bar in your neighborhood. That's where you might find Jack Wood.

Jazz Hang Records; 2026; appx. 57 min.

Steven Husted; Two Nights Live

Georgetown, Texas has a population a little over 100,000. And these fortunate folk can brag of a super jazz quintet led by the energetic tenor sax of Steven Husted. His quintet opens this jovial meeting with two of my personal all time faves, Hank Mobley's “This I Big Of You” and Clifford Brown's “forever” tune, “Sandu”. Both are infectious examples of classics that will remain with us for as long as our beloved art form is a part of our culture. The additional nine selections, all high spirited and just plain fun, are dessert for your ears. Georgetown, Texas---right? Indeed, right in every way!

Probably self produced; probably 2025; times not indicated.

Chris Parker; Reunion

Veteran pianist Chris Parker reunites with some long time pals on a versatile and entirely entertaining set of no less than twelve inspired original compositions. Make no mistake, the range here is from silky tenderness to pure jazzy, funky pleasure. His colleagues put it all out there with accessible tradition. A note of surprise here is the inclusion of a violin soloist who, along with everyone, adds a note of pizzazz to this session. This is warm hearted “feel good” jazz with a happy “extrovert-ish” emphasis. Don't get envious of what a good time these guys are all having!

Circle 9 Records; 2025; appx. 68 min.

Dan West; Presenting The Dan West Big Band

Big bands? Sure, they're still very much with us. They don't just play “Whispering” and “Tie A Yellow Ribbon” anymore. For which most of us, I dare say,challenging charts, and often solo work by selected band members. So, amigos, it's a different big band notion than “music for dancers” which once dominated the scene. A very skilled example of this concept is the Dan West Big Band. They provide us with seven excellent performances of this buoyant creativity. Tempo-wise, everything is covered with high marks for skill and enthusiasm. Solos are spot-on, never too much frosting on this cake. So I'd advise you to leap out of that easy chair and enjoy today's approach to the term “big band”. 

Wayside Records; 2025; terms not indicated.

Bob Reynolds; Eddie Told Me So

I'm always on board for a soulful tenor sax concentrating on our honorable Great American Songbook. Bob Reynolds is indeed such a player and he opens this session with “Harrisburg”, most likely a hometown reference. From then on, it's mostly a matter of Songbook treasures with the exception of the title tune, “Eddie Told Me So”, Reynolds' other original on the session. You'll find no argument from me over such evergreens as “When Your Lover Has Gone”, “Change Partners”, “Just Friends”, “Charade”, and “You Don't Know What Love Is”. Reynolds' associates, Andrew Renfroe on guitar, Mike Gurrola on bass, and Charles Ruggiero on drums, provide solid support throughout, and Reynolds is right on target with strength and great feeling for these examples of songs we've known and loved all these years!

Nosahu Records; 2025; appx. 44 min.

Doug MacDonald; Live In Beverly Hills

Guitarist Doug MacDonald has a good thing going. The guy puts out two, three, even four CD's per year, and every one is well worth hearing. MacDonald teams up here with Lou Shoch on bass and Billy Paul on drums. Shoch's vocal revives an old plum made somewhat famous by Joe Williams. It's called “Early In The Morning” and you're going to like it. With an exception here and there, the remainder of the session consists of snappy lines simply “made” for the guitar. The standards, also very well rendered, include “The Night Has A thousand Eyes”, “Yesterdays”, and “Baubles, Bangles, and Beads”. Yes, friends---Doug MacDonald keeps releasing the good stuff. It's tasty, consistent work, and we can get on that road, right?

Dmac Music; probably 2025; appx. 38 min.

Bijan Tagham; Cactus Sessions

OK, I'll admit it. I'm a ring-it-up, heartfelt piano guy. Always have been. Always will be. So when an album like this comes to my attention, sign me up. Bijan Tagham keeps it completely in the standards column on eight solo piano selections that earn an A+ for this listener. Perhaps you'll feel the same way when you hear Tagham's clarity, creativity, and a real sense of the joy derived from 88 keys. So, breathe it all in on “Wave”, “I Should Care”, “I'll Remember April”, “Peace”, “Have You Met Miss Jones”, “Ask Me Now”, “East Of The Sun”, and “Desafinado”. Ira Gershwin put it this way: “Who could ask for anything more!”

Self produced; probably 2025; appx. 50 min. 

Joe Magnarelli; Decidedly So

Many years, ago, I visited a jazz club here in my Portland hometown to hear the very gifted trumpet player, Joe Magnarelli. He was appearing with a super local rhythm section and I recall a most rewarding evening of “the good stuff”. The club itself was seemingly gone in the blink of an eye, but you know how it goes with jazz clubs! Anyway, what a delight to hear this formidable trumpet ace on a new recording. To be clear, the music is split about evenly between Joe's straight ahead, accessible originals and a few dignified old surprises. His colleagues on the disc include Steve Davis, trombone; Jeremy Manasia, piano; Clovis Nichols, bass; and Rodney Green, drums. In addition to the satisfying, ideally constructed Magnarelli creations, we are treated to some blasts from the past like “This Nearly Was Mine”, “When I Fall In Love”, and even the ancient “When I Grow Too Old To Dream”. Magnarelli retains the great chops I heard way back when on SE Belmont Street. He and his well chosen teammates make for perfect jazz listening throughout. Hey, Joe---come on back to Portland anytime!

Cellar Music Group; 2026; appx. 50 min.

Scott Routenberg; Live At Merrimans' Playhouse:

Oscar Peterson Tribute Oscar Peterson, my first piano hero, to this day remains a swinging genius who will forever become a “top of the mountain” legacy in the jazz world. So just how wonderful is it that pianist Scott Routenberg has given us the gift of this beautiful remembrance of this giant of the art of jazz. Along with trio mates Michael Santos, bass, and Cassius Goens III, drums (Ray Brown and Ed Thigpen if you will) the three shine on nine of Oscar's classics. It is interesting to note that a few tunes date towards the latter part of his life with titles like “City Lights” and “Cool Walk”. I was also thrilled with the presence of two pieces from Oscar's beloved Canadiana Suite, “Wheatland” and “March Past”. But it doesn't stop there. He had more than a passing flirtation with Bossa Nova, and so we are treated to “The Girl From Ipanema” and “Corcovado”. Decades ago Oscar's trio spun my head around with a dazzler called “Blues For Big Scotia”. It acts as a perfect closing theme on this session. And here it is again! Thank you, Scott and friends, for keeping alive the true genius of Montreal's gift to the world, Oscar Emmanuel Peterson.

Chroma Note Records; 2026; appx. 56 min.

ANSWERS:

     1.   Oh look At Me Now; also I'm Beginning To See The Light

1. Close Enough For Love
2. How About You
3. Once In A Lifetime
4. There Will Never Be Another You
5. Here's That Rainy Day
6. Little Girl Blue
7. Twisted
8. Fascinating Rhythm
9. 76 Trombones
10. Sunrise, Sunset
11. You Are There

HAVE SOME FUN WITH GEORGE'S QUIZZES!

Here are some partial lyrics to randomely selected songs. How many can you identify? Answers tomorrow...

1. never cared much
2. not perfect yet
3. a Gershwin tune
4. a man knows a moment
5. how can they come true
6. those worn out wishes
7. count your  fingers
8. those double deckered buses
9. the man I used to be
10. the big parade
11. one season following another
12. the kettle's on for tea

GEORGE'S BRIEFS

Chad LB; The Shadow Of Your Smile

Tenor saxophonist Chad LB displays highest level energy on material ranging from Eric Clapton to Jimmy Van Heusen to Johnny Mandel to someone named JS Bach! Wow, talk about something for everyone! LB is tender and perfect on “Shadow” and nicely upbeat on “It Could Happen To You”. He also gets into screech and scream mode on other selections and is over the top for these ears.

Self produced; 2025; appx. 52 min.

Jung Stratmann; Confluence

This very cohesive quartet of piano, bass, drums, and guitar gives us five original compositions with every emotion ranging from jazz to some classical orientation, and even a new age thought. Very nice for a hot cup of tea on a rainy winter night.

Self produced; 2025; appx. 29 min.

Todd Zimberg; Not A Tango

This trio session is under the leadership of drummer Todd Zimberg and features the spicy and fresh presence of Michael Gotz on piano and Perry Thoorsell on bass. “Birk's Works” and “Beautiful Love” are the two familiar choices but the trio also provides several well served and spirited originals. Nothing earth changing here but certainly to these ears, this is in the realm of straight ahead piano trio tradition.

Spring Beach Music; 2025; times not indicated

David Sneider; Introducing David Sneider

David Sneider shows us a hard swinging trumpet style perhaps out of the Freddie Hubbard bag. On this session of five originals and standards “Bye Bye Blackbird” and Monk's opus “Hackensack”, Sneider is at times fiery and at others lyrical and lilting. With some up and coming playing mates, David Sneider is a trumpet ace to become acquainted with and enjoyed.

Cellar Music Group; 2025; appx. 48 min.

Francesca Prihasti; Beneath The Sun

Here is your opportunity to discover a fresh, melodic, and invigorating set of diverse original works led by pianist Francesca Prihasti. The group, comprised of piano, bass, drums, guitar, and saxophones (not every player is on every selection) lays down some occasional complex but accessible lines, with Prihasti's a leadership role. At times thought provoking and at other times openly swinging, you might enjoy your morning coffee with Francesca and friends.

Apra Amcos; 2024; 35:05

The Flying Horse Big Band Meets George Garzone

If you're on the trail of exciting, challenging charts, here's your album. Champion Berklee sax faculty member George Garzone joins this stimulating big band on four of the seven selections. The most familiar on the menu are “Giant Steps”, “Reflections”, and “Impressions”. This is a roaring hard working big band that lets us know they're solidly in the game.

Flying Horse Records; 2025; appx. 37 min.

Lafayette Harris; All In Good Time

Right off the bat I love the title of this CD and I wonder why I've never seen it---ever. And of course it's fitting. The players on the date are obviously having a good time and they are keeping good time. Lafayette Harris, Jr. is the ultimate swinging piano maven with rhythm and delight and fluidity emanating from every note. The session is mostly a trio affair with Harris on piano, Kenny Davis on bass, and Jerome Jennings on drums. Houston Person and his dependable tenor sax are on board for one track and Jeremy Pelt and his flawless trumpet helps out on three choices. To set the mood for this musical meeting, the opener is the 'ancient' “I Want To Be Happy”. The only other well known selection is a classic dating back to Billie Holiday, “Good Morning Heartache”. The remaining tunes are primarily upbeat “feel good” examples of a group playing for the joy of making “in the pocket”, real deal jazz.

Savant; 2025; appx. 42 min.

Scott Silbert; Dream Dancing: Celebrating Zoot Sims At 100

Over the years of “devouring” scores of saxophone heroes, my absolute favorite swinging, joyful tenor genius has always been and will always be John Haley “Zoot” Sims. So you can imagine how thrilled I was when this treasure arrived in my hands. Scott Silbert must have shared my affection for Zoot because his sound and phrasing is entirely in the Zoot Sims arena. Yet somehow Silbert never sounds like he is purposely trying to “do” Zoot Sims. Along with a superb rhythm section Silbert delivers the good stuff on Zoot faves like “Dream Dancing”, It's That Old Devil Called Love”, “All Too Soon”, “Shadow Waltz”, and an exquisite Billy Strayhorn rarity with the unusual title “Ballad For Very Tired And Very Sad Lotus Eaters”. Thank you, Scott Silbert, for honoring Zoot Sims, the guy who was always “at the ready” to remove his Selmer from its case and play his heart out.

Self produced; 2025; appx. 65 min.

Neil Gray; In The Streets

Could you ever call this accessible bop? Not to say that bop is ever inaccessible. Perish the thought. But drummer Neil Gray is leading his quintet through such a high brow jazz journey that they shouldn't take a back seat to anyone. The session consists of almost entirely Gray's compositions. And they simply flow freely with melodic sense, top of the mark solos, and jazz purity all the way through these proceedings. The one and only standard is Cole Porter's “Night And Day” which is performed by a singer doing her best to be hip. To end on a positive note, everything else here is right in the jazz jackpot. Go for it!

Cellar Music Group; 2025; appx. 35 min.

James Suggs; For All We Know

For several years Arbors Records released loads of swing jazz specialties. All great stuff too. In the current times their numbers have dropped. So it's a pleasure to welcome a new Arbors product. This time it's trumpet titan James Suggs leading a swinging pack of pleasure through a list of tunes I'd suspect all will enjoy hearing. Those selections chosen here represent quite a broad range from “Grazing In The Grass” to “You've Got A Friend” in the pop arena, to “My Shining Hour” and the title song “For All We Know” from the standard book, to “St. James Infirmary” and “Moten Swing” from the blues era. Several less well known choices complete this super collection. Let's put it this way: if these musicians are ever investigated it will only be because they're having such a good time! Thanks, Arbors. Let's hear from you more often!

Arbors Records; 2025; appx. 68 min.

Brandon Sanders; Lasting Impression

Brandon Sanders; Lasting Impression

There are so many jazz artists being introduced to me these days that I learn of new talent on an ongoing basis. I love it! So, friends, make way for drummer Brandon Sanders and his associates, most of whom are new names to me. His consistently straight ahead approach features a rhythm section with vibes, lots of piano, a couple of hip vocals and, most importantly, a complete journey down the jazz road from the first note to the last. These impressive players “get it” and perform their assignments with authority and obvious attention to tradition. Stay in the groove, guys!

Savant; 2025; appx. 46 min.

Bijan Taghavi; Cactus Sessions

110 years ago Irving Berlin wrote a song called “I Love A Piano”. And for the record, so do I! Apparently pianist Bijan Taghavi shares that sentiment. On this solo piano performance of acclaimed and beloved songwriting, he offers us eight examples of gentle, pristine, pure piano pleasure. Taghavi is the player you'd hear in a black tie and linen restaurant while wishing that the customers would chill their chatter and listen to the exquisite melodies surrounding them. The artist begins and ends his recital with two Jobim gems, “Wave” and “Desafinado”. In between, his feathery touch lands between such winners as “I Should Care”, “I'll Remember April”, “Have You Met Miss Jones”, “East Of The Sun”, and two favorites from the jazz book, Horace Silver's “Peace” and Thelonious Monk's “Ask Me Now”. Taghavi's melody lines are efficient and respectful, and his improvisations are letter perfect. Solo piano played this way is something special and, in these times, rather unique. Piano lovers, don't let this one escape your attention.

Self produced; probably 2025; appx. 50 min.

Maria Corsaro; Love Makes The Changes

Sometimes one can make a guess as to “jazz hipness” by simply noting choices of tunes and their composers. In this stunning, well chosen collection, singer Maria Corsaro turns to heroes like Sam Jones, Bill Evans, Antonio Carlos Jobim, McCoy Tyner, Michel Legrand, Oliver Nelson, Gerry Mulligan, and Roger Kellaway, among others. Does that tell you something? I would think so! The titles provided to us by the above named artistic high-enders include “Chan's Song”, “You Taught My Heart To Sing”, “No More Blues”, “Stolen Moments”, “Walkin'”, and big kudos for Kellaway's “I Have The Feeling I've Been Here Before”. Beyond all that, Corsaro just puts it all down with no extraneous show-biz activity. Considering all the above information regarding choices, it's no surprise Maria Corsaro “gets it”. The essence of jazz singing is here. You'd be wise to check it out.

Lola Records; 2025; appx. 45 min.

Ted Rosenthal; Classics Reimagined:Impromp2

Over the years others have attempted “swinging the classics” with varied results. But in the talented hands of pianist Ted Rosenthal it works to high toned perfection. His trio is rounded out by bassist Noriko Ueda, and the drum chores are split by Quincy Davis and Tim Horner. Also on hand but not on every cut are visitors Ken Peplowski, clarinet, and Sara Caswell, violin. Rosenthal's exhilarating piano technique leads his established friends through jazz drenched but always tasteful classical melodies. Composers include Chopin, Dvorak, Mussorgsky, Rachmaninoff, Brahms, Beethoven, Elgar, and Satie. This album is pleasantly balanced, never excessive and I must say, Ted Rosenthal and friends make it all happen with respect and brilliance. 

TMR Music; 2025; appx. 60 min.

Chris Rottmayer; Playing Favorites

Chris Rottmayer; Playing Favorites

Here is a swingin' straight ahead trio led by pianist Chris Rottmayer and featuring singer Kelsey Wallner on selected tracks. Rottmayer's comrades include Clark Sommers, bass, and Matt Endres, drums. The favorites referred to in the album title include songs from both the standard book and those from the highly admired jazz repertoire. As a result we go from a rather spirited version of “Everything Happens To Me” to Tom Harrell's new era classic, “Sail Away”. On that concept, we are treated to “On The Street Where You Live” but soon arrive at Kenny Barron's colorful track, “Voyage”. The remaining familiar selection is the rarely performed Frank Loesser ballad “Never Will I Marry”. Wallner's vocals are polished and pleasant, and Chris Rottmayer sounds like the ultimate, tasteful, dedicated, well-schooled jazz pianist that he is.

Pilars Jazz; 2025; appx. 68 min.