ANSWERS:

 ANSWERS:

1. Ain't Misbehavin'
2. It's A Sin To Tell A Lie
3. It Could Happen To You
4. I Wanna Be Around
5. The Shadow Of Your Smile
6. The Days Of Wine And Roses
7. Sweet Lorraine
8. Don't Get Around Much Anymore
9. Just In Time
10. Love Is Here To Stay
11. A Sleepin' Bee
12. Taking A Chance On Love
13. I Remember You
14. This Can't Be Love
15. The Lady Is A Tramp

HAVE SOME FUN WITH GEORGE'S QUIZZES!

 Here are some partial song lyrics your parents and grandparents grew up with. How many titles can you identify?

1. on the shelf
2. be sure it's true
3. you might crumble
4. pick up the pieces
5. and light the dawn
6. like a child at play
7. another choo choo toy
8. Saturday dance
9. the losin' dice were tossed
10. but oh my dear
11. my feet off the ground
12. things are blending now
13. a few kisses ago
14. I get no dizzy spells
15. she gets too hungry

GEORGE'S BRIEFS

Tomas Janzon; Jazz Diary

Here's a little change of pace from your usual guitar jazz trio under the leadership of Tomas Janzon. You'll hear a hint of mystery here and there with some minor key orientation and even a bit of welcome dissonance from time to time. There are eleven original compositions in all and certainly there are well honed sounds here for guitar fans and fellow guitarists to sample.

Changes Music; probably 2026; times not indicated

Trombocalist Big Band; The Vigil And The Sleeping Giant

Here's a big band with the sound that might prevail as a sort of welcome at a political event. The eight selections performed here are all originals with something of an emphasis on electronic instrumentation. Something for everyone to be sure and this one will find its audience.

Self produced; 2026; times not indicated

Pete Mills; This Is Now

Silvery toned tenor man Pete Mills leads a quintet of guitar, piano, bass, and drums through swinging, upbeat, feel good originals and a real bonus in Billy Strayhorn's classic “UMMG”. Nobody goes for the gut punch here. This is the simple concept of making listenable, accessible jazz. Let's never forget how important that is. Mills and friends pull it off with ease, wit, and fun for all.

Mighty Ernie Records; 2026; appx. 64 min.

Mike Clement; Polka Dots and Ray Bans

Here we have yet another of those guitar-organ meetings led by Mike Clement. The big difference here is that this is not your usual outing of this nature. Instead, it's a guaranteed jazz album with additional instrumentation on a hard swinging approach featuring ten originals by the leader. A real breath of fresh air blowing your way!

Cellar Music Group; 2026; appx. 52 min.

Marie-Paule Franke; Through The Cracks, The Light Is Born

I doubt that Marie-Paule Franke would be described as a jazz singer. However, a very sweet and sincere vocal fills the seven original compositions heard here. They are primarily emotional outpourings, what we'd refer to as ballads, but all in a present day musical approach. So if you'd like to be in the mood for a pleasant detour from a pure jazz singer, this may be your ticket to a new journey.

MariPosa Records; 2026; appx. 30 min.

Bobby Sanabria Multiverse Big Band; Arsenio And Beyond

Get in line, all of you Latin jazz fans. You need to sample this one because it has every imaginable Latin percussive instrument possible. A number of these highly rhythmic selections are played and sung (of course in Spanish) by an ensemble obviously having way too much fun. Most likely you will too!

Jazzheads; 2026; times not indicated

Christine Fawson; It Could Happen To You

That Great American Songbook is still out there, waiting to be visited by exceptional jazz hip singers like Christine Fawson. Working with a strong piano led trio and her own impressive trumpet entries, Fawson shines on such winners as “It's All Right With Me”, “My Heart Stood Still”, “Oh, Lady Be Good”, and much more. High class from note one.

Self produced; 2026; appx. 53 min. 

Chris Hazelton; In Rotation

Aw, c'mon! You can handle one more Hammond B3 session, right? This one is led by organist Chris Hazelton and a pretty full range of colleagues. In addition to the five originals on the date, you'll celebrate the presence of Billy Strayhorn's “A Flower Is A Lovesome Thing”, Lee Morgan's “Speedball”, and Tadd Dameron's “On A Misty Night” Horace Silver's “Summer In Central Park”, all classics. There's real B3 bounty here, so give it a whirl!

Cellar Music Group; 2026; appx. 60 min.

Andrea Miller; Let Our Love Take Wing

How nice that there are singers like Andrea Miller. You see, she celebrates the riches of the American Songbook by concentrating on “all-timers” like “Body And soul”, “Blue Skies”, “East Of The Sun”, “Love For Sale”, “Will You Still Be Mine”, and lots more. Andrea, you just keep your emphasis right where it is on this release. You can't lose with the good stuff.

Self produced [Tony Guerrero]; 2026; appx. 57 min.

Zen Zadravec; New Paradigm

Hard bop is still out there in the very capable hands of pianist Zen Zadravec and his adventurous, in your face colleagues. These are all new compositions, filled with life and played with fiery enthusiasm. Solos are generous and creative and micianship is rough hewed and inspired. Stretch a bit if you're a hard bopper. It's worth the effort.

Marmite Records; 2026; appx. 53 min.

Wayne Alpern; Varieties & Extravaganzas

 

Composer-arranger Wayne Alpern has put together a unique five piece group of all brass players called The times Square Brass Quintet. The music is impressively conceived and played with exacting skill and astounding togetherness. Most of the session is devoted to Alpern's original compositions and his classical chops are right on target. But you'll also her the quintet on standards like “The Lady Is A Tramp”, “Have You Met Miss Jones”, and even the ancient “I Don't Want To Set The World On Fire”. Between the classical connections and the jazz joy, this is an adventure in something new and fresh.

Self produced; 2026; times not indicated

Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra; Ellington Masterworks

 On reliable authority, Duke Ellington is known to have composed up to 10,000 compositions. Consisting of works for popular consumption, suites, and television and movie sound tracks, Duke was obviously the most prolific composer EVER. So, here is the magnificent Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra, an important new name to me, in a live performance of eight extended Ellington sparklers we've likely never heard until now. From every standpoint, this is “not to be missed” material. With the Ellington stamp of serene melodies, highest caliber solos, and that Duke “thing” that created a true jazz hero, we hope this will be the first in what will be some kind of series by the Smithsonian organization. This is music that will undoubtedly extend the recognition and genius of Edward Kennedy Ellington's breathtaking work.

Manchester Craftsmen's Guild; 2026; appx. 56 min.

Kemuel Roig; Both Sides Now

 

Now and then it's a special treat to just float away on an exquisite cloud of solo piano music played with simple joy and passion, and without pretense. That is exactly what is handed to us by Kemuel Roig on a solo session often beautiful beyond written description. The thirteen songs here are well balanced between little known choices and evergreens like Cole Porter's “I Love You”, Billie Holiday's and Arthur Herzog Jr.'s “Don't Explain”, and Rodgers and Hart's “My Romance”. But for me, the highlight is two versions of Jimmy Rowles' now classic “The Peacocks”. Roig's piano is like the finest wine in the bar. Float away, friends.

Life in Music; probably 2026; times not indicated

I truly believe that Doug MacDonald may well be the most prolific jazz guitarist on today's scene. The guy seemingly manages to release a new CD about one every three months. And the good news for you and me is that every one of them is totally jazz listener friendly. This time around he is heard in a small group setting. The presence of an organist gives this session a bit of a funky poke in the ribs on five MacDonald originals and three that you're quite likely to know: Wes Montgomery's “Mr. Walker”, Antonio Carlos Jobim's “Captain Bacardi” (you'll know it when you hear it), and Duke's “Self Portrait Of The Bean”. Much gratitude to Doug MacDonald and associates. Keep knockin' 'em out, Doug!

Dmac music; 2026; appx. 40 min.

 

Will Lyle; The All Seeing Eye

Bassist Will Lyle has assembled a collection of premiere artists to perform a well balanced menu of originals and a few lengthy standards. Among the veterans on the session are Dave Kikoski, piano, and Billy Drummond, drums. The remaining players (not every guy on every track) are new names to me. Just the same, it's easy to discern the years of hard work they've put in to arrive at this level. There are seven tunes in all including those standards already indicated. They are: “Autumn Nocturne”, “All Of You”, and “On A Clear Day”. The latter tune features a fresh and happy vocal by a singer only identified as Sirintip. Odd but true. In any case, there's a lot to like here. So hats off to Will Lyle and pals. Thanks for keeping the essence of jazz alive and lively.

Circle Theory Music; 2026; times not indicated

Joe Syrian Motor City Jazz Octet; A Blue Time

 

From the first few measures of Duke Jordan's jazz classic “Jordu”, you just know that this is going to be the straight ahead stuff you've admired all your life. Drummer Joe Syrian leads this octet through a terrific ten tune talent laden journey. Considering the use of “motor city” here, one may make the connection with scores of Detroit jazz heroes over the decades. Indeed they carry the performance with titles like “Agua de Beber”, “Norwegian Wood”, “Charade”, “Blue Bossa”, “Nature Boy”, and a pristine vocal by Lucy Yeghiazaryan on “Teach Me Tonight”. This octet and its crisp arrangements and super song choices combine for a breath of fresh air. Give them a shot!

Circle 9 Records; 2026; appx. 51 min.

Joe Gransden; Let's Take A Chance Together

 

Someday I'll get a meaningful answer as to just why I've always “hung my hat” on singers who also play something. For example: Shirley Horn, Meredith d'Ambrosio, Nat Cole, Bob Dorough, Dave Frishberg, and such. Most of these vocal standouts play piano  but in this case, Joe Gransden's vocal offerings are backed in part by some flawless trumpet work. On a mix of newer material and forever tunes like “When Your Lover Has Gone”, “Smile”, “Close your Eyes”, “So In Love”, “Don't Get Around Much Anymore”, “Where Or When”, “The Way You Look Tonight”, and a shoulder tap to a guy named Sinatra with “Young At Heart”! One can really tell that Joe Gransden is about quality songwriters. On both trumpet and vocals, he and his colleagues deliver only the good stuff.

Joe Gransden; 2026; appx 49 min.

Nat Reeves; Now In Time

 

Is forty years long enough? Apparently not for jazz bassist Nat Reeves who has been at the task for over four decades! It is clearly evident here as he surrounds himself with younger all stars on a hip run through the essence of the art form. Most of the tunes are originals “back in the day” by heroes like Sonny Stitt, Jackie McLean, Pharaoh Sanders, and more. Titles familiar to you are these: “On Green Dolphin Street”, “Alice In Wonderland”, “Portrait Of Jennie”, and probably McLean's “Appointment In Ghana”. Those supremely gifted cats previously referred to include Orrin Evans, piano; Eddie Henderson, trumpet; Steve Davis, trombone; Eric Alexander, tenor sax; and Jeff “Tain” Watts, drums. That, in baseball parlance, is a grand slam home run. The music says it all.   And I, for one, am grateful for players like this who insist on keeping it exciting, relevant, and respectful of the truly American treasure we refer to as jazz!

Side Door Jazz; 2066; appx. 66 min.

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