Jarrod Lawson Expands His Soul-Jazz Vision with Genre-Bending Third Album

Internationally acclaimed singer, songwriter, and pianist Jarrod Lawson returns with a bold and collaborative third album that further cements his place as one of contemporary music’s most distinctive voices. Known for blending soul, jazz, gospel, and R&B into a seamless and spiritually charged sound, Lawson continues to draw comparisons to icons like Stevie Wonder and Donny Hathaway while maintaining a deeply personal artistic identity.

Now based in Nashville, Lawson expands his sonic palette across a wide-ranging project built around collaboration and stylistic exploration. The album is introduced through two lead singles: the nostalgic, 90s-influenced “Next Move,” featuring vocalist Raquel Rodriguez, and the atmospheric slow jam “Do Whatchu Gotta,” co-written with French chill-hop artist Rose Noir. Both tracks highlight Lawson’s ability to merge classic soul textures with modern production sensibilities.

Across the album, Lawson continues to push beyond genre boundaries while staying rooted in groove and emotional storytelling. Tracks like “Laugh At Yourself,” featuring Grammy-nominated artist Eric Roberson, bring a playful funk energy, while “Let Your Heart” and “I’d Do It Again,” created with producer Carrtoons and rapper JSWISS, blend soulful melodies with hip-hop influences and introspective lyricism.

Elsewhere, Lawson teams up with Allen Stone on the uplifting “There Can Only Be One,” and collaborates with rapper donSMITH on the rhythm-driven “Head-On,” further showcasing the album’s stylistic range. Each guest appearance feels purposeful, contributing to a larger narrative of connection, self-expression, and musical openness.

The full tracklist spans soulful ballads, groove-heavy funk, and reflective mid-tempo cuts, unified by Lawson’s rich harmonies, thoughtful songwriting, and signature keyboard work. Whether on intimate compositions like “Gentle Soul” or expansive ensemble-driven moments like “Authentically Me,” the album maintains a consistent emotional core.

Since emerging on the international scene, Lawson has built a reputation for powerful live performances and deeply expressive recordings that bridge modern soul with timeless influence. His work continues to resonate across genres and audiences, offering music that feels both uplifting and grounded in lived experience.

Full Tracklist:

A

1. Just Let It
2. Smoke Me Out
3. Do Whatchu Gotta
4. If We Pretend

B

1. Let Your Heart (feat. JSWISS)
2. Laugh At Yourself (feat. Eric Roberson)
3. Gentle Soul

C

1. Next Move (with Raquel Rodriguez)
2. Nothing To Forgive
3. There Can Only Be One (feat. Allen Stone)
4. I’d Do It Again (feat. JSWISS)

D

1. Head-On (feat. donSMITH)
2. I Got Your Back
3. Authentically Me

Adonis Rose and Phillip Manuel Deliver New Orleans Excellence on Unusual Suspects

Grammy Award-winning drummer, composer, producer, and educator Adonis Rose returns with Unusual Suspects, a vibrant new release on Moocha Music that pairs his powerhouse ensemble with acclaimed vocalist Phillip Manuel. Out now, the album stands as a deeply rooted New Orleans statement—rich in history, rhythm, and expressive storytelling—while showcasing a modern, finely detailed production aesthetic.

From its opening moments, Unusual Suspects makes its intent clear: this is a collaborative, high-level jazz recording where every performance matters. Rose leads from the drum kit with authority and nuance, while also shaping the album as producer, ensuring each arrangement has space to breathe. Manuel’s voice sits at the emotional center—warm, expressive, and deeply human—drawing subtle comparisons to classic jazz vocal traditions while remaining entirely his own.

The ensemble features a strong lineup of musicians including Max Moran, Seth Finch, guitarist Steve Masakowski, saxophonist Ricardo Pascal, and trumpeter Stephen Lands. Together, they create a flexible and responsive sonic environment where arrangements unfold with clarity and emotional weight.

A key creative element of the album lies in its concept: many of the songs reimagine instrumental jazz and popular standards with newly written lyrics by Manuel, transforming familiar compositions into vocal narratives. Works associated with artists like Lee Morgan, Joe Sample, and even reinterpretations of pieces by Michael Jackson and Bill Withers are reshaped through Manuel’s lyrical lens and emotional delivery.

Recorded in the summer of 2025 at Artisound Studios, the project benefits from arrangements by Michael Pellera that emphasize narrative flow and dynamic contrast. The result is a balance between vocal storytelling and instrumental interplay, where no single element overwhelms the others. Instead, the music moves with intention—carefully sculpted but never rigid.

Underlying the entire project is the unmistakable imprint of New Orleans. Rose’s musical lineage runs deep, shaped by generations of family musicians and the city’s living, breathing culture. That heritage is reflected in the music’s rhythmic foundation and communal spirit, where performance is inseparable from identity.

Rose’s career has included collaborations with major figures such as Terence Blanchard, Dianne Reeves, and Wynton Marsalis, as well as performances at venues like Carnegie Hall and the Newport Jazz Festival. As Artistic Director of the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, he has also played a key role in expanding jazz education and community engagement initiatives.

Manuel, long respected for his interpretations of jazz standards and emotionally grounded vocal approach, brings equal depth. His work spans everything from the Nat King Cole songbook to reimagined versions of contemporary material, always filtered through a deeply personal lens. His collaboration with Rose here reflects years of shared musical history and mutual trust.

Ultimately, Unusual Suspects feels less like a studio project and more like a living conversation—one shaped by lineage, friendship, and the enduring spirit of New Orleans jazz.

Billy Childs Returns to Trio Form with Triumvirate, A Masterclass in Jazz Dialogue and Musical Duality

With Triumvirate, Billy Childs reaffirms what has long set him apart: a rare ability to move fluently between the worlds of jazz and classical music without compromising either. A six-time GRAMMY® winner and seventeen-time nominee, Childs has built a career defined by range, from orchestral commissions performed at venues like Carnegie Hall and Walt Disney Concert Hall to deeply swinging small-group jazz projects.

Known for boundary-crossing works such as his GRAMMY-winning Jazz Chamber Music series and his acclaimed tribute to Laura Nyro, Childs has increasingly focused on straight-ahead jazz since joining Mack Avenue Records in 2017. Albums like Rebirth, Acceptance, and The Winds of Change have showcased his evolving quartet sound, balancing sophistication with emotional immediacy.

Triumvirate marks a significant shift: Childs’ first trio recording in 25 years. The format, long a creative home for him but rarely revisited, finds renewed purpose here through his collaboration with bassist Matt Penman and drummer Ari Hoenig. Their established musical rapport allows the trio to function with remarkable fluidity, each musician responding instinctively to the others in real time.

The album’s program spans multiple phases of Childs’ creative life. Early works such as “One Fleeting Instant” and “Like Father Like Son” are revisited with new perspective, while pieces like “Heroes” highlight the trio’s ability to create space, restraint, and emotional depth without excess. Rather than relying on density or virtuosity alone, the music breathes—unfolding with patience and clarity.

Later in the set, the trio turns toward the broader jazz tradition, nodding to composers such as Benny Golson and Thelonious Monk, before closing with a stripped-down duo interpretation of “Flamenco Sketches,” originally associated with Miles Davis. In this final moment, piano and bass engage in quiet, conversational exchange—an ending that feels both intimate and open-ended.

The title Triumvirate reflects the record’s guiding principle: shared authority. Rather than a traditional leader-with-accompaniment structure, the trio operates as an equal partnership, built on deep listening and mutual responsiveness. Each musician shapes the direction of the music as much as they follow it, creating a dynamic balance that feels constantly alive.

Far from a nostalgic return to form, Triumvirate underscores why the jazz trio remains one of the most expressive formats in the genre—especially in the hands of musicians capable of turning interaction itself into composition.

Malcolm Strachan Steps Into the Spotlight with Soulful Solo Era and New Single “Quest For Love”

Scottish trumpeter Malcolm Strachan—a mainstay of the UK music scene and founding member of The Haggis Horns—steps confidently into his solo era with a sound rooted in soul, jazz, and deep groove tradition. His new single “Quest For Love” offers a warm, late-night blend of soul-jazz energy and subtle dancefloor momentum, featuring vocals from Tanja Daese (also known as Lucinda Slim).

Strachan has been a professional trumpeter since graduating from Leeds College of Music in 1996, building a career that spans decades of global touring and studio work. He has performed and recorded with major international artists including Mark Ronson, Amy Winehouse, Corinne Bailey Rae, Jamiroquai, and The New Mastersounds, as well as appearing on countless pop and soul recordings. His versatility has made him one of the UK’s most in-demand horn players.

Originally from Inverness, Scotland, Strachan co-founded The Haggis Horns in 1998 alongside fellow musicians Atholl Ransome and the late Jason Rae. What began as Leeds club residencies quickly evolved into a defining force in modern funk and soul, with the group gaining early attention through collaborations such as Keb Darge presents The New Mastersounds and the release of their debut album Hot Damn in 2007 on First Word Records.

More than two decades later, The Haggis Horns remain active as both a touring band and elite horn section, while also preparing new material for their own imprint, Haggis Records. Alongside that ongoing work, Strachan is now preparing to release his debut solo album About Time, a refined collection of soul-jazz instrumentals inspired by the classic Blue Note aesthetic—warm, melodic, and deeply groove-oriented.

“Quest For Love” offers a preview of that direction. Built on an infectious groove and understated rhythmic drive, the track balances elegance with movement—equally suited to a dimly lit dancefloor or an immersive headphone listen. It reflects Strachan’s ability to channel classic jazz sensibilities through a contemporary lens, while keeping the emotional core front and center.

With decades of experience behind him, Malcolm Strachan’s solo work feels less like a reinvention and more like a natural extension of a career already steeped in collaboration, musicianship, and soulful expression.

Mark Winkler’s Love Comes First Showcases Five Decades of Songcraft with Fresh Energy

After more than 50 years in music and 22 albums to his name, Mark Winkler continues to evolve with Love Comes First, a richly layered new project two years in the making. The album brings together 22 of Southern California’s top jazz musicians across a variety of configurations, blending five classic standards with six original compositions that highlight Winkler’s signature mix of wit, warmth, and emotional depth.

Winkler’s journey as a songwriter gained early momentum when Liza Minnelli recorded his song “Tropical Nights” in 1977, turning it into the title track of a hit album. Since then, his work has been embraced by a wide range of acclaimed artists, including Dianne Reeves, Dee Dee Bridgewater, and Jane Monheit, among many others. Over the years, he has also collaborated with jazz icons like Wayne Shorter and Joe Sample, shaping a career defined by versatility and enduring creativity.

Recorded across multiple sessions, studios, and with five different producers, Love Comes First stands out for its ambitious scope. Despite the complexity of its production, the album feels cohesive—anchored by Winkler’s artistic vision and instinct for pairing the right musicians with each song. Rather than following a strict concept, the project grew organically, beginning with selections from the Great American Songbook that ultimately became its emotional foundation.

Winkler’s approach to standards reflects both reverence and reinvention. He offers nuanced interpretations of classics like “Mona Lisa,” famously associated with Nat King Cole, alongside “More Than You Know,” “Embraceable You,” and “Just in Time.” Each arrangement brings a fresh perspective while preserving the timeless qualities of the originals. His rendition of “More Than You Know,” in particular, carries personal significance, inspired by a moment of connection tied to the memory of his late husband.

The album also features standout original material. The opening track, “Snappin’ on the 2 and 4,” sets a playful tone, while the title track—co-written with guitarist Dori Amarilio—captures the album’s central theme of love as a guiding force. Elsewhere, Winkler balances humor and social commentary on “Why Are People So Stupid?” and reflects on his own place in the industry with the tongue-in-cheek “Fame Adjacent.”

Throughout Love Comes First, Winkler’s vocal style remains grounded in intimacy rather than flash. His understated delivery allows the lyrics to take center stage, drawing listeners into stories that feel both personal and universal. Whether interpreting a beloved standard or unveiling a new composition, his performances are marked by sincerity and a deep connection to the material.

A mainstay of the Los Angeles jazz scene for decades, Winkler has built a reputation as both a prolific recording artist and a compelling live performer, regularly selling out venues and appearing at renowned stages such as Blue Note Jazz Club and Birdland. With Love Comes First, he adds another chapter to a career defined not by trends or notoriety, but by consistency, craftsmanship, and a genuine love for the art of song.

Jersey City Jazz Festival 2026 Expands Into Three-Day Waterfront Celebration with Full Lineup Revealed

The Jersey City Jazz Festival returns bigger than ever in 2026, unveiling its full schedule for a free, three-day celebration of music, culture, and community. Running from May 29 through May 31 along the scenic Hudson River waterfront at Exchange Place Plaza, this year’s festival marks a major evolution with the addition of the Jersey City Latin Jazz Festival—bringing an even broader spectrum of global sounds into one unified event.

Presented by Exchange Place Alliance, the festival continues to attract more than 30,000 attendees annually, offering a welcoming, high-energy environment for both dedicated jazz fans and newcomers alike. With sweeping views of lower Manhattan and easy access via public transit, it’s become a go-to destination for a weekend immersed in live performance.

This year’s expanded format transforms the festival into a dynamic, multi-stage experience. Audiences can move freely between performances spanning straight-ahead jazz, Latin jazz, and genre-blurring styles, all while soaking in the relaxed, collaborative atmosphere the event is known for. Often described as a “musician’s hang,” the festival encourages spontaneous moments and creative exchanges between artists.

The 2026 lineup features an impressive mix of internationally acclaimed performers, standout New York talent, and emerging voices shaping the future of jazz. Highlights include Nate Smith, Joe Lovano with his Trio Tapestry project alongside Marilyn Crispell, Bobby Sanabria & Ascension, Eddie Palmieri’s special showcase, and Winard Harper & Jeli Posse. Additional performances from artists such as Andromeda Turre, Hyeseon Hong Jazz Orchestra, Tim Berne, and The Roy Hargrove Band round out a diverse and forward-thinking bill.

Beyond the music, the festival offers a full cultural experience. Attendees can browse a curated artisan marketplace, enjoy a wide range of food trucks, and visit the Community Zone—featuring free activities for kids and interactive dance classes for all ages.

In the days leading up to the main event, a citywide Jazz Week sets the tone with a series of more intimate, ticketed performances across Jersey City venues. Artists like Emily Braden, Champian Fulton, and Edmar Castaneda will take the stage at local spots including The Junto, Pet Shop, and White Eagle Hall, offering a closer, more personal lead-in to the waterfront festivities.

While the main festival remains free and open to the public, a limited number of VIP packages and Jazz Alley passes are available for those looking to enhance their experience with premium seating, exclusive access areas, and additional performances.

With its continued growth and commitment to accessibility, the Jersey City Jazz Festival stands out as one of the most vibrant and inclusive jazz events in the country—bringing together world-class talent and community spirit for an unforgettable weekend.

Matt Slocum Unveils A Revolving Alliance, A Bold All-Analog Trio Statement

Drummer and composer Matt Slocum returns with A Revolving Alliance, a striking new release arriving worldwide on June 19, 2026 via Sunnyside Records. Available digitally and as an all-analog 180g LP, the album pairs Slocum with rising guitarist Emmanuel Michael and legendary bassist Larry Grenadier in a deeply intuitive trio setting that balances spontaneity with emotional depth.

Following the acclaim of Lion Dance (2024), Slocum’s latest project leans fully into original compositions, creating a cohesive and immersive listening experience. The chemistry between the trio is palpable, with six of the seven tracks captured in first takes—preserving a raw, unfiltered energy that mirrors the immediacy of live performance. Despite the controlled environment of the studio, the session unfolded with a sense of unpredictability that brought out unexpected creative instincts from all three musicians.

This marks Grenadier’s fourth collaboration with Slocum, their musical connection continuing to evolve across varied ensemble formats. At the same time, A Revolving Alliance introduces a fresh dynamic through Emmanuel Michael, whose forward-thinking approach adds new dimension to the trio’s sound. The interplay between generations results in a fluid, conversational musical language that feels both grounded and exploratory.

Conceptually, the album expands on themes Slocum has explored in earlier works, including reflections on societal tension, hope, and the cyclical nature of change. While his 2021 release With Love and Sadness focused more directly on systemic issues in America, this project takes a broader, more abstract view—grappling with uncertainty while holding onto the possibility of renewal and compassion.

Each composition contributes to a larger narrative arc. The title track unfolds from a winding bass line that shifts through complex meters, while pieces like “Yerazel” evoke a dreamlike sense of innocence and mystery. “A Disappearing Path” begins to reveal the album’s central themes, and “Solstice” offers a reflective look back at brighter moments. The closing track, “A Dissolving Alliance,” brings the journey to a poignant conclusion.

The album’s sonic character is equally deliberate. Produced by Jerome Sabbagh and recorded live to two-track analog tape by James Farber at Sear Sound, the project avoids edits or post-production fixes, emphasizing authenticity and musical interaction. During mastering, Bernie Grundman preserved the integrity of the recording by bypassing equalization entirely, resulting in a remarkably pure and dynamic sound.

Slocum’s artistic voice has been shaped by the legacy of jazz greats like Max Roach, Philly Joe Jones, and Roy Haynes—influences he has distilled into a distinct and personal style over years of performing and recording. With eight previous albums as a bandleader, he continues to carve out a path defined by individuality, creative risk, and a commitment to meaningful musical expression.

A Revolving Alliance stands as a testament to Slocum’s evolving vision—music that is introspective yet expansive, technically intricate yet emotionally direct, and above all, rooted in genuine artistic connection.

Kevin Peter Jones Honors Jazz Appreciation Month with Electrifying New Single from Blues Alley

Contemporary jazz drummer Kevin Peter Jones is marking Jazz Appreciation Month with the release of a powerful new single from his live album Blues Alley. Out now via Pacific Records, the track showcases Jones alongside an exceptional ensemble featuring GRAMMY® winners Randy Brecker on trumpet and Jeff Lorber on keyboards, as well as GRAMMY® nominee Eric Marienthal on saxophone. Together, they deliver a vibrant and deeply expressive interpretation of Donny Hathaway’s “Valdez in the Country.”

Jones’s connection to jazz began early. At just 15, he discovered his passion while performing in his high school band in Chicago, where the Elk Grove High School music program played a pivotal role in shaping his musical path. Those formative years opened doors to unforgettable experiences—meeting and performing with jazz greats, attending high-level recording sessions, and earning both recognition and scholarship opportunities. That foundation continues to inform his artistry today.

Recorded across eight sold-out performances, Blues Alley captures the raw energy and spontaneity of live jazz at one of Washington, DC’s most iconic venues. Jones is among a select few artists ever granted permission to release a live recording from the club, making the project especially significant. In curating the setlist, he chose “Valdez in the Country” as a tribute to Hathaway, an artist he deeply admires for both his musical brilliance and his commitment to education and emotional authenticity in music.

Jones’s arrangement brings a fresh, rhythmic vitality to the classic, blending soulful grooves with Latin jazz-funk influences. The performance is elevated by standout solo work, particularly from Eric Marienthal, adding another layer of intensity and nuance to the track. For Jones, the piece represents both a personal homage and a shared moment of connection with the audience.

Earlier this year, the first single from the album—a rendition of Cannonball Adderley’s “Walk Tall”—was released on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, setting the tone for a project rooted in both musical excellence and meaningful tribute.

The album features a stellar lineup rounded out by percussionist Lenny Castro, bassist Cheikh Ndoye, and guitarist Dean Brown. Across ten tracks, Blues Alley weaves together reimagined standards and original compositions, with each musician stepping into the spotlight while anchored by Jones’s dynamic and driving rhythms.

A Berklee College of Music alumnus, Jones has collaborated with a range of influential jazz artists throughout his career. Looking ahead, he continues to expand his creative output, with multiple new projects in development—including producing his son’s debut album.

Tema Due Expand Their Vision with “Universo Astratto,” a Double LP of Cosmic Club Jazz and Spiritual Electronica

Universo Astratto marks the full-length debut of Tema Due, the collaborative project of Nicola Conte and Nico Lahs, and builds on the foundation laid by their 2025 Schema Records EPs. The result is a double LP that feels expansive in both scale and intention, weaving together strands of electronica, spiritual jazz, African-American rhythmic traditions, and richly textured percussion into a deeply immersive listening experience.

Rather than simply extending their earlier work, Conte and Lahs push their sound into more ambitious territory, shaping a record that feels like both evolution and declaration. The album’s opening moments immediately set the tone, nodding toward the spiritual depth of jazz lineage while folding it seamlessly into contemporary electronic production.

A key strength of Universo Astratto lies in its extraordinary lineup of collaborators. Pianists Giovanni Guidi and Pietro Lussu, along with Dario Bassolino on keyboards, bring harmonic depth and fluidity, while percussionists Gabriel Prado and Abdissa Assefa add layered, organic rhythm structures. Magnus Lindgren contributes winds and Hammond organ textures that expand the album’s sonic palette, and saxophonist Pasquale Calò adds further melodic weight. The vocal contributions are equally striking, featuring Lalin St. Juste, Siya Makuzeni, Nina Miranda on “Share Your Love,” and Toco, who also revisits “Macumba de Oxalà” in a newly reimagined version drawn from the duo’s earlier EP.

Across its runtime, the album resists reduction to a typical club record. Instead, it operates as a conceptual space where rhythm and intention merge, treating dance music as a vehicle for heightened awareness. The interplay of tribal percussion, jazz improvisation, and electronic structure creates a sense of movement that is both physical and reflective, inviting repeated listening to uncover its subtler layers.

With Universo Astratto, Tema Due articulate a clear artistic statement: club music can be expansive, reflective, and transformative without losing its grounding in rhythm and groove. It is a record built for immersion, designed to move bodies while also encouraging a deeper, almost meditative engagement with sound.

Release date: 8 May 2026
Label: Schema Records
Format: 2xLP / Digital
Tags: house / electronic / spiritual

The 5th Dimension Celebrate 60 Years with Expansive New Box Set “Let the Sunshine In”

 

Six decades after first redefining the sound of pop-soul harmony, The 5th Dimension are being honored with their most comprehensive collection to date—a sweeping box set that captures the heart of their groundbreaking catalog.

Arriving May 22, Let the Sunshine In: The Soul City & Bell Albums 1967–1974 gathers the group’s essential recordings into a newly remastered 6CD collection. The release spans their work across the Soul City, Bell, and Arista labels, while also reaching back to include rare material from their earliest days performing under the name The Versatiles.

At the core of the set are all ten of the group’s original albums from their most influential era, from Up, Up & Away through Soul & Inspiration. These recordings showcase the unmistakable blend of pop, soul, and sophisticated vocal arrangements that defined their sound and helped shape late-’60s and early-’70s radio. Across these albums, their interpretations of songs by some of the era’s most celebrated writers helped turn standout compositions into enduring hits.

The collection features chart-topping classics like “Aquarius/Let the Sunshine In” and “Wedding Bell Blues,” alongside fan favorites and Top 10 staples including “Up, Up and Away,” “Stoned Soul Picnic,” and “One Less Bell to Answer.” Also included is the ambitious The Magic Garden, a cohesive song cycle that remains one of the group’s most distinctive artistic statements.

Beyond the original albums, the box set expands the story with 25 bonus tracks. These include non-album singles, alternate takes, rare live recordings making their official debut, and even a previously unreleased studio production of “Hi-De-Ho.” Together, these additions offer a deeper look into the group’s creative range and evolution during a pivotal era in music.

The audio has been newly remastered, giving fresh clarity to recordings that have long been staples of classic pop and soul. The accompanying booklet adds further depth, featuring newly compiled liner notes built from recent conversations with founding members, archival interviews, and reflections from key collaborators. Rare photographs and a newly written introduction from a longtime creative partner round out the package, making it as much a historical document as it is a listening experience.

More than just a retrospective, this release serves as a reminder of how The 5th Dimension’s sound—polished yet expressive, accessible yet ambitious—helped bridge musical styles and audiences. Sixty years on, their harmonies still resonate, and this collection brings that legacy into sharp focus for both longtime fans and new listeners alike.

WaKaNa Turns Midnight Reflection into a Billboard No. 1 with “After Hours”

Sometimes the most powerful creative breakthroughs don’t happen in studios packed with people—they happen in still, quiet moments when everything else finally slows down.

For alto saxophonist WaKaNa, that moment came late at night, in the middle of juggling two demanding roles: artist and mother. Out of that tension came “After Hours,” a track that would go on to become her first Billboard No. 1—and a defining milestone not just for her, but for everyone involved in bringing it to life.

Co-written with two-time GRAMMY®-nominated producer Greg Manning, the song carries a reflective, mid-tempo groove that feels like a deep exhale after a long day. There’s a sense of intimacy woven into every note, with WaKaNa’s warm, expressive saxophone tone at the center. The arrangement stays deliberately understated—soft keyboard textures, subtle rhythm work, and a gentle guitar presence—all allowing the emotion of the melody to speak clearly.

What makes the track resonate isn’t just its musicality, but the feeling behind it. It captures that familiar late-night headspace—when thoughts are louder, emotions are layered, and clarity feels just within reach. WaKaNa has described the piece as embodying the idea that no night lasts forever, a reminder that even the heaviest moments eventually give way to light.

That sentiment clearly connected. “After Hours” didn’t just top the Billboard chart—it also reached No. 1 on Mediabase and the Smooth Jazz Network, marking a major breakthrough for both the artist and Manning’s label, EQuity Records. In fact, it became the label’s first chart-topping hit, setting the tone for what’s shaping up to be a significant run.

The collaboration itself has been years in the making. Manning recognized something distinctive in WaKaNa’s playing early on—her phrasing, her tone, the emotional clarity she brings to each performance. When the time came to build his label, she was an obvious choice. That long-term creative trust shows up in the music—it feels intentional, patient, and deeply aligned.

And the momentum hasn’t stopped there. With more releases on the horizon and a growing roster of talent, EQuity Records seems positioned for a strong year ahead.

At its core, though, this story isn’t just about chart positions or industry milestones. It’s about what can happen when you stay committed through the complicated seasons—the ones where you’re pulled in multiple directions and still choose to create anyway.

Because sometimes, the quietest hours produce the loudest impact.

Adam Rudolph Enters a New Sonic Frontier with “Sunrise”

Visionary percussionist and composer Adam Rudolph continues to expand the boundaries of global music with Sunrise, a bold new trio recording arriving May 15, 2026 via Meta Records. Marking his 63rd release as a leader or co-leader, the album introduces a fresh chapter in a career spanning more than five decades—one defined by fearless experimentation and a deep commitment to musical exploration.

At the core of Sunrise is Rudolph’s newly formed trio, featuring longtime collaborators Kaoru Watanabe and Alexis Marcelo. Together, they construct a richly textured sound world that resists categorization, blending acoustic traditions from across continents with modern electronics. The result is a fluid, improvisation-driven experience that dissolves the lines between past and present, structure and spontaneity.

Recorded at Firehouse 12 in New Haven, Connecticut, the album captures the trio’s organic chemistry and shared artistic language. Drawing from influences that span African, Japanese, and European musical traditions, the instrumentation is as expansive as it is unconventional. From hand drums and flutes to electric koto and keyboards, each element contributes to a layered, evolving sonic palette that feels both ancient and futuristic.

Rather than adhering to traditional jazz frameworks, Rudolph employs what he describes as “sonic weaving”—an orchestral approach to spontaneous composition. This method allows the trio to shape music in real time, creating immersive soundscapes that emphasize dialogue, texture, and emotional depth over predictable forms. It’s a philosophy that has guided Rudolph throughout his career and continues to define his artistic identity.

Sunrise follows closely behind his 2025 release Beingness, a collaboration with jazz luminaries Dave Liebman and Billy Hart. Reflecting on those experiences, Rudolph has often emphasized the importance of mentorship and the transmission of creative spirit—lessons he absorbed from legendary figures like Yusef Lateef and Don Cherry. That lineage is evident in Sunrise, not just in its sound, but in its ethos of openness, curiosity, and artistic risk-taking.

Watanabe and Marcelo, both deeply rooted in Rudolph’s musical world, bring decades of collaboration into this new setting. Their ability to move seamlessly between instruments and ideas allows the trio to explore a wide dynamic range—from meditative passages to rhythmically intricate bursts of energy. Just as importantly, their sensitivity as listeners helps shape the music into something greater than the sum of its parts.

Across eight tracks, the album unfolds as a series of spontaneous yet cohesive journeys, each piece emerging from collective intuition rather than rigid composition. Guest contributions from cornetist Stephen Haynes add further dimension, enriching the trio’s already expansive sound.

Long regarded as a pioneer in what is now called world music, Rudolph has spent his career building bridges between cultures and musical traditions. From co-founding early cross-cultural ensembles to developing innovative systems for large improvising groups, his work has consistently challenged conventions while remaining deeply human at its core.

With Sunrise, Adam Rudolph once again demonstrates that true innovation doesn’t come from following trends—it comes from listening deeply, taking risks, and creating space for something entirely new to emerge.

Samuel Torres Redefines Intimacy and Innovation with “Trio Libre”

 

“What happens when counterpoint transcends boundaries—lifting itself beyond time and geography? According to harpist Bridget Kibbey, the answer lies in the kind of reinvention that invites listeners to rediscover music in entirely new ways.” That spirit of exploration is at the heart of Trio Libre, the latest project from Latin Grammy-winning percussionist and composer Samuel Torres.

Set for release on May 1, 2026 via Blue Conga Music, Trio Libre marks a deliberate shift in artistic direction. Rather than expanding his sound outward, Torres draws inward—embracing a stripped-down, intimate trio format that highlights nuance and emotional immediacy. Joined by pianist Carmen Staaf and vibraphonist Felipe Fournier, Torres crafts a sonic environment where every note feels exposed, conversational, and deeply personal.

The album blends original compositions with inventive reinterpretations, including a reimagined piece by Johann Sebastian Bach, “Duet No. 1 in E minor, BWV 802,” which is already available as the project’s first single. This fusion of classical structure with Afro-Latin rhythmic language reflects Torres’ ongoing commitment to pushing musical boundaries while honoring tradition.

At its core, Trio Libre is both a musical and emotional response to the complexities of the modern world. Torres channels themes of uncertainty, vulnerability, and resilience—particularly through a central suite inspired by contemporary sociopolitical realities. Yet, the album doesn’t dwell in tension alone; it also reveals moments of connection, solidarity, and quiet strength.

Torres’ career has long resisted easy categorization. Born in Bogotá and now based in New York, he has collaborated with an extraordinary range of artists, from Chick Corea to Shakira, weaving together Afro-Latin traditions, jazz improvisation, and classical composition. His previous works, including A Dance for Birds and Alegría, established him as a bold innovator, and Trio Libre feels like a refined distillation of that journey.

This release also continues a streak of recognition and achievement. Torres, a three-time recipient of the Chamber Music America New Jazz Works Grant, earned a Latin Grammy Award for his album Regreso, a concerto for congas and symphony orchestra. Across his body of work, he has consistently expanded the role of percussion, transforming it from rhythmic foundation into a central melodic and narrative voice.

Listeners will have the opportunity to experience Trio Libre live during select performances, including an appearance on International Jazz Day in Bogotá and an album release celebration in New York City. These performances promise to capture the same intimacy and immediacy that define the recording.

Ultimately, Trio Libre stands as a bold artistic statement—one that challenges expectations of Latin jazz while inviting audiences into a more vulnerable, deeply human musical space.

Love, Resilience, and a New Beginning: Michael Cates Celebrates with “She’s My Summer”

 

After a deeply personal and challenging chapter, contemporary jazz saxophonist Michael Cates is marking a joyful return to life’s brighter moments with his upcoming single, “She’s My Summer,” set for release on May 1 through Sonic Redoubt Entertainment.

The inspiration behind the track comes from a life-altering experience. Last summer, Cates stood by his wife Judy during a critical spinal surgery—an experience that reshaped his perspective and deepened his appreciation for their time together. Now, with her recovery complete, he channels that gratitude into music that feels both celebratory and heartfelt.

Cates took a hands-on approach in crafting the single, writing and producing it while performing most of the instrumentation himself, including his signature tenor saxophone. To elevate the sound, he collaborated with guitarist Paul Pesco—known for his work with major pop and R&B acts—and bassist Larry Antonino, whose groove-driven style adds depth to the track. The result is a smooth, midtempo R&B piece that radiates warmth, with vibrant sax lines and a chorus that feels like pure sunlight.

For Cates, the song is more than just a release—it’s a reflection of enduring love. As he and Judy approach their 30th wedding anniversary, the music captures his commitment to cherishing every moment after nearly facing unimaginable loss. His wife has long been his creative muse, and that connection continues to shape his artistry.

This new single follows a strong run of success. His previous release, “Judith Lorraine,” earned recognition as Best Smooth Jazz Song of the Year at the World Entertainment Awards. That track appeared on Us, a 2025 album filled with intimate musical snapshots inspired by their relationship. In the same year, his project Sunset Kiss was also honored as Best Smooth Jazz Album, highlighting a particularly prolific period in his career.

“She’s My Summer” is expected to hit radio playlists starting May 4, with a live debut shortly after in New York City. Cates will headline two performances at Chelsea Table + Stage, bringing the new music directly to audiences in a setting that holds personal significance for him. Having grown up in nearby New Jersey and spent formative years in New York’s music scene, the return feels especially meaningful.

Before fully dedicating himself to music, Cates also made a name in television, appearing for five seasons on the Emmy-winning series Ally McBeal as “The Saxophonist.” Over the years, he has built a diverse career, releasing multiple albums and performing alongside global icons such as Elton John, Tina Turner, and Mariah Carey.

At its core, “She’s My Summer” stands as a tribute to love, resilience, and the gift of second chances—an artist’s way of turning personal trials into something uplifting and universally relatable.