Max Kaplan & The Magics are the newest generation of Memphis-based bands that captures the essence of the city's rich musical heritage. With soulful guitar leads and a tight rhythm section, the band creates a fresh and original sound that harks back to the sonic landscape of funky Motown and Stax era soul mixed wit h guitar-driven blues of the 1960s. With influences ranging from B.B. King to Leon Bridges, James Brown to Alabama Shakes, and Al Green to The Staples Singers, Kaplan’s music is a perfect blend of old-school soul and modern-day energy. The band’s debut album ‘Mind on my Heart’ is a testament to the band’s deep-rooted love of this linage though the sweet soul waltz “What Kind of Fool” to the upbeat and danceable “Born to Love You.” The band pays homage to one of their favorite soul tunes “99 Pounds” Ann Peebles that has become a fan favorite during their live performances. ‘Mind on My Heart’ is a promising debut that’s perfect for anyone who holds a special place in their heart for nostalgic Memphis-soul music looking to experience it through an exciting new lens.
After decades leading numerous jazz fusion bands, guitarist/composer/producer James Morgan’s decision to launch his own brand of “West Coast Laid Back Jazz” via the Ghost Jazz Trio has been a spectacular success, including two 'Best Jazz Album of the Year' nominations from the San Diego Music Awards. Recently upgraded from a trio to a funky, hard-poppin’ quintet, the latest full-length jam Groovin' Smooth is an infectious, rhythm-centric showcase for Morgan’s fluid style and the natural wood vibe of his Pat Metheny hollow body signature guitar. Everything is colored, of course, by the skillful and adventurous ensemble of seasoned musicians featuring legendary guitarist (album co-writer, arranger and producer) Dean Brown (Bob James, David Sanborn), bassist Nathan Brown (Bob James, Eric Marienthal, Brian Simpson), keyboardist Chase Pado and holding down the groove, Tres Hodgens on drums. Engineered and recorded by Grammy winner Alan Sanderson (Elton John, Michael Jackson, Rolling Stones). ~ www.smoothjazz.com
Like most young musicians setting out to learn their craft, drummer Dean Mucetti had plans to earn a living playing music. Little did he know he would become a full-time music educator and a mentor to many young people who may not have had access to a music education otherwise. Mucetti is now releasing his debut album, Isolate/Integrate, with his band called Rhythm Real, which has featured some of his students who have grown up to become top-notch musicians. Isolate/Integrate comprises six songs constructed collectively by the band with Mucetti at the helm. When Covid shut down live performances, Mucetti and the band decided to focus on creating an album. The title of the album, Isolate/Integrate, reflects the trajectory of the pandemic, from the isolation of the lockdown to the methods they used to construct the music. The rhythmic structures of the six compositions on the album were developed over time and were set down as through composed orchestrations with Williams on piano and Hargrove on keys improvising over the complex polyrhythms. Dean Mucetti’s love of drumming and his commitment to teaching and mentoring have helped turn young, aspiring musicians into genuine artists, as reflected on this release. Isolate/Integrate is a funky jazz outing with fascinating complex polyrhythms and a unique instrument configuration.
Fresh off his 2022 Soul Café Radio Indie Soul Awards nomination, versatile saxophonist Dee Lucas – closing in on 20 years as a recording artist – is set on fulfilling a dual mission as he releases his wildly eclectic, genre pushing new album No Boundaries. First, he’s committed to creating music as a coping mechanism for others, which in turn brings joy to his listeners. Second, reflective of the project’s theme, to make music that evolves with less restrictions and expectations. While keeping his infectious melodies and lyrical, ever-grooving horn vibe front and center, Lucas’ outside the box/comfort zone vision leads to an expansive palette of expressions, tapping into his cross-pollinating passions for pop, rock, funk, R&B and jazz and inspiring interactions with Blair Bryant, Gino Rosaria, Selina Albright, David P. Stevens and Ragan Whiteside. ~ www.smoothjazz.com
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