NEW RELEASES: CHRISTIAN JACOB - BEAUTIFUL JAZZ: A PRIVATE CONCERT; TOM BRAXTON - THE NEXT CHAPTER; STEVE KAHN - SUBTEXT

CHRISTIAN JACOB - BEAUTIFUL JAZZ: A PRIVATE CONCERT

Grammy nominated pianist and arranger Christian Jacob presents his first solo piano recording, Beautiful Jazz: a private concert, aptly titled as this intimate solo recording is a dedication to the music that drew him away from the classical world and introduced him to the beautiful world of jazz. The release will be available on CD as well as a limited edition vinyl LP in true analog. Recorded in Los Angeles at the Zipper Concert Hall on a Hamburg Steinway Model D Grand, Beautiful Jazz captures the power and beauty of a true private concert. “There’s just something about the atmosphere of performing in a concert hall that makes everything easier to play and more fulfilling,” Christian explains. “It’s the real deal, and I wanted my solo recording to capture that.” “I thought it would be interesting to work on some of the music that initially drew me to jazz. ‘Tea for Two’ because it was the first song I learned to improvise on: ‘My Romance,’ ‘I’m Old Fashioned’ and ‘One Note Samba’ because they take me back to when I was first studying jazz at the Berklee College of Music. Then, there are a few iconic ballads like ‘Body and Soul,’ and ‘How Long Has This Been Going On.’ I didn’t plan to record ‘Giant Steps,’ but I’m happy I did. It’s that weird and beautiful tune that everyone tries to wrap their brain around. I also wanted to share an Etude by Stravinsky. Although I wanted to become a jazz musician, I always loved classical music, that’s why I had to include this little gem by Stravinsky.” Although Christian had always envisioned his first solo release to be on CD only, the creative momentum of the project inspired him to make a change of plans. As Christian recalls, “An extra surprise with this recording is that I got to release a vinyl LP. And out of respect for all the analog purists out there, we kept it 100% analog. It all started when I saw the painting for the CD cover and just knew it was meant to go on an LP jacket. We had no idea what we were getting ourselves into (laughs) but we’re really excited and proud of how both the CD and vinyl turned out.” ~ Amazon.com

TOM BRAXTON - THE NEXT CHAPTER

The Next Chapter presents Braxton at his best from up-tempo grooves to reflective ballads. When listening to the record, it's easy to feel the love, joy, and positive energy. Tom is showcased on soprano, alto and tenor saxophones, as well as flute and keyboards. Braxton served as producer, writer and arranger on most of the material. However, he did have production assistance from the ""drummer to the stars,"" the late Ricky Lawson. The Next Chapter combines lyrical melodies with invigorating rhythms from a variety of genres including dance music, sambas, soul and contemporary jazz. The title track, written by Braxton and pianist Jay Rowe, kicks off the CD with a ""hooky melody"" and a ""killer glide to the groove."" Lawson's energy is evident on ""New Horizons"" which features a fresh ""house beat"" that accentuates Braxton's exciting tenor. Tom and Bob James take it ""south of the border"" and have some fun on ""Nuevo,"" a bossa ­tinged party for piano and tenor. Peter White joins Braxton for a beautiful rendition of Bread's classic, ""Make It With You."" White's guitar and Tom's soprano are a match made in heaven! Braxton's lively tenor is featured on the Spinners favorite, ""I'll Be Around"" which showcases background vocals from Grammy winner Arthur Dyer. Braxton has been on the road with Grammy winner Earl Klugh, and they are mesmerizing in the sophisticated but simplistic ""Contemplation."" ""Sunrise in Malawi"" inspired by a trip to Africa with Klugh, is an energizing song that will get your juices flowing. The legendary guitarist adds his signature sound to this early morning dance. The light and airy ""Tuesday Morning"" will have you singing all the way to work. Ricky Lawson interjected some old school into the project with the O'Jay's hit ""I Love Music"" Lawson and Sean Dancy got the ball rolling and Braxton added his signature sax and horn arrangement to help get you up on your feet! Finally, Braxton displays his arranging skills with the classic hymn, ""It Is Well. ~ Amazon.com

STEVE KAHN - SUBTEXT

Steve Khan's Subtext, subtitled Subtexto en Azul, stands out among the prolific jazz guitarist's much lauded body of work, and is highlighted with lyrical guitar phrases that weave in and out of a set of carefully chosen, superbly arranged and performed compositions. On the album, Steve continues his explorations of the grand traditions of Latin music, and this time, the core group features: Rubén Rodríguez(El. Bass & Baby Bass), Bobby Allende(Conga), Marc Quiñones (Timbal), and Dennis Chambers(Drums). At varying moments, they are joined by some great musicians as guest artists, including: Rob Mounsey(Keys & Orchestrations); Randy Brecker(Flügelhorn); Gil Goldstein (Accordion); and Mariana Ingold (Vocals). Japan's JAZZ LIFE magazine has already written that the recording is: An ambitious work, hot music filled with Khan's artistry.  ~ Amazon.com

VIOLINIST DAMIEN ESCOBAR DEBUTS AT #15 ON ITUNES CHARTS WITH "FREEDOM"

Still beaming from the success of his first breakout single as a solo artist opening at #15 on the iTunes charts, two-time Emmy award winning artist Damien Escobar recently accepted a very special invitation to take the stage at the Katie Couric Show, debuting Freedom to nationwide audiences. It was only two years ago that the urban rock violinist and former Nuttin but Stringz member, known for making his mark as one of the world's top violinists, shieded away from National television, stages, and recording studios alike, and took a year off from pursuing his passion. Back and on top of the world, Escobar is hand delivering his powerful new record and trailblazing a new appreciation for everything that is DameEsco.

Since re-launching his career, Escobar boasts over 200K downloads from his first R&B mixtape, Sensual Melodies; and has more than a few notable solo headliner performances under his belt including: CBS Upfront Presentation, Food & Wine Magazine's Best New Chef Awards, Indy Car Championship Awards, Major League Baseball Annual Golf Fundraiser Event, Angela Simmons "Electric Daze" Fashion Show, Russell Simmons' Hip Hop Inaugural Ball, and corporate concerts for TGI FRIDAYS, Walmart, Target, and more. When asked where he envisions himself in a year, Damien says, "I see myself in the Top 40's hitting the mainstream market and giving the violin the platform it deserves. I want to be to music what Michael Jordan was to basketball."

Escobar, once a self-proclaimed retired violinist, is now on everyone's radar; and has even caught the eyes of CNN, where Freedom debuted online. Escobar has also obtained online success with viral videos picked up by media giants such as WorldStarHipHop.com and featured stories in Huffington post, Viva Glam, and so many more. A recent feature in PEOPLE Magazine elevated Escobar to new heights in his solo career; highlighting his movement of giving back to others by doing random acts of kindness.

In addition to his musical career, the artist has also tapped his creativity in the book industry, penning his first children's book entitled "The Sound of Strings."  He will begin his book tour at the start of the new school year.

NORWEGIAN SAXOPHONIST TERJE LIE RELEASES "BRIGHT MOMENTS" PRODUCED BY JEFF LORBER & JIMMY HASLIP

Again teaming up with contemporary jazz greats Jimmy Haslip and Jeff Lorber, Terje Lie (“Terry Lee”) is expanding upon the explosive energy, compelling melodies, and stylistic diversity of his previous critically acclaimed and contemporary jazz radio hit albums Traveler and Urban Vacation. The Norwegian native—celebrating many years in the Los Angeles area—serves up ten joyful Bright Moments and continues a unique musical vibe best described as “groove jazz.”The three musicians decided to get together again to create another rich and fascinating set of ten originals. 

Lie, with Haslip and Lorber, two of the most renowned artists and producers in contemporary jazz, R&B, and pop since the late 70s, co-wrote five tracks (“Storm Skies,” “Santa Anas,” “Big Surf”, “Bright Moments”, “You Know”). Lorber and Haslip co-penned “Jungle”, while Lorber wrote “Daybreak”, “Pancakes”, “A Special Thing”, and “Islands”.

Beyond his core presence on soprano, alto, and tenor saxophone—Lie also adds trumpet for horn section arrangements. Jeff Lorber is on everything from Fender Rhodes and various other electronic keyboards to guitar and Jimmy Haslip takes care of the electric bass. Tony Moore is the main drummer while both renowned Vinnie Colaiuta and Gary Novak are featured as well. Percussionist Lenny Castro also plays on several tracks. In addition, Bright Moments features guest appearances by guitarists Mike Landau, Jeff Richman, Michael Thompson, and Marlon McClain.

Full tracklisting for Bright Moments: Storm Skies / Big Surf / Bright Moments / Daybreak / You Know / Islands / A Special Thing / Santa Anas / Pancakes / Jungle. Release is set for July 15, 2014.

GRAMMY-NOMINATED SAXOPHONIST GERALD ALBRIGHT’S NEW HEADS UP RELEASE IS A SLAM DUNK

August 5, 2014 recording features classics by Phil Collins and James Brown, with special guest vocalist Peabo Bryson (international release dates may vary)

“As a composer, instrumentalist, arranger/producer/artist, he truly redefines the word ‘consummate’ and raises the bar for the meaning of the word ‘musician.’” – Michael McDonald, from the liner notes

For four decades, the million-selling, GRAMMY®-nominated saxophonist/multi-instrumentalist/ composer/bandleader Gerald Albright has put his serpentine-fired, solo signature on many of the greatest hits of the latter half of the twentieth century; from Patrice Rushen’s “Forget Me Nots,” to Quincy Jones’ “Setembro.” And, he’s been one of the most accomplished contemporary/traditional jazz artists on the scene, as evidenced by his fourteen records as a leader.

With the August 5, 2014 release of Slam Dunk on Heads Up, a division of Concord Music Group, Albright continues his reign supreme as the genre’s most compelling and consistent artist. Fans will hear his searing and soulful sax lines on this twelve-track recording. And, they’ll be in for a surprise, as Albright shows off his chops as a bassist, along with his ebullient tenor, baritone and soprano saxophone arrangements on his own compositions, and his super covers of classics by Phil Collins and James Brown, with special guest vocalist Peabo Bryson.

“This record is synonymous with my previous records, in that it has the direct influence of James Brown, the Philly International sound, and the Motown sound,” Albright says. “But what we wanted to do on this record was to take those instruments that are normally in the background – bass, flute and horns – and bring them up front. In terms of being a bassist, I was inspired by Louis Johnson [of the Brothers Johnson] back in college. A lot of people don’t know that I play bass, flute and some of the other instruments…so we decided to make it – no pun intended – a slam dunk project, and bring all of those elements to the forefront.”

Recorded in Denver, Colorado and Wallingford, Connecticut (hometown of co-producer/co-writer/keyboardist Chris “Big Dog” Davis), Albright is also supported on this CD by drummer Jerohn Garnett, guitarist Rick Watford, and his daughter, Selina Albright, on vocals.

“The musicians are handpicked,” Albright says. “They’re guys I’ve known for a long time, and I trust their artistry. Chris has been my keyboard player on and off for several years. I like his energy. And the way he approaches both production and the keyboards is unique. My regular drummer, Jerohn, the newest member of my touring band, is also a dynamic multi-instrumentalist in his own right. Rick is from Atlanta. He’s a dynamic guitarist in the gospel world, but he also plays R&B. And my daughter, Selina, is a recording artist in her own right.”

Slam Dunk rings with Albright’s moving and muscular alto saxophone sound, laced over some ingenious synth shadings and his punchy, baritone, tenor and soprano sax arrangements. The title track pulses with Albright’s funky, thunder-thumbed basslines and his driving sax conjures the spirit of a basketball game. “Split Decision,” which features bass and sax alternating in the lead, and the Chuckii Booker-bounced “Sparkle in Your Eyes” are both high-energy tracks. “Because of You” is Albright’s poignant, mid-tempo tribute to his wife of forty-two years, Glynis, and the reverent Sunday service air of “The Gospel Interlude” and “The Gospel” are moving elegies to his late mother-in-law. The festive Latin spirit of “Fiesta Interlude,” which features Albright’s flute solo, is a worthy companion piece to his earlier composition “Bobo’s Groove;” his tribute to the great Afro-Latin drummer Willie Bobo, who hired him as a bassist and saxophonist.

Another touching tribute is “The Duke,” an upbeat, medium-grooved track dedicated to the late George Duke, who tragically passed away last year. “I always called him my Poppa G, my industry dad,” Albright says. “We used to hang out and talk about music; talk about anything. I was blessed to spend a lot of time with him. George was one of those wonderful, approachable brothers you felt close to. I’m still processing his loss.”

The beautiful ballad “Where Did We Go Wrong?” features the legendary tenor voice of R&B/Quiet Storm icon Peabo Bryson. “We’ve been friends for a long, long time,” Albright says. “I had the pleasure of doing a saxophone solo on his hit, ‘Show and Tell.’ We recently performed together at the Berks Jazz Fest, and his voice was in rare form. After the show I said, ‘man, I’m doing this record, and I have a song that you’d be ideal for. Would you be interested?’ He said, ‘absolutely.’ So we have this wonderful friendship and camaraderie, and it’s reflected on ‘Where Did We Go Wrong?’”

What has made Albright such an enduring artist is his genius at putting his own jazzy John Hancock on another artist’s music, as he does with Phil Collins’ “True Colors.” “I had the privilege of working with Phil for several years,” Albright says. “And whenever we did this tune, I looked forward to my soprano sax solo. Even though I loved Phil’s arrangement, we decided to do more of an R&B type of thing and make it our own.”

Albright’s down-home rendition of “It’s a Man’s, Man’s, Man’s World,” is the highlight of the CD. “It’s hard for me to do a record without channeling James Brown,” Albright says. “We didn’t want it to be like the original version. We started with a kind of subtle, chordal thing that led up to the initial sax melody. It’s one of my favorite tracks.”

Slam Dunk is a testament to the musical longevity of the Los Angeles-born, Colorado-based, Albright; which spans the entire saxophone spectrum. “My sound is a marriage between Cannonball Adderley and Maceo Parker,” he says. “Cannonball expanded on the improvisational side of my playing, and Maceo alluded to the rhythmic sound of my horn. Those are the bookends of my influences, along with Grover Washington, Jr., and Stanley Turrentine.”

The entire range of Gerald Albright’s saxophone artistry is in full effect on Slam Dunk.

NEW RELEASES: SHANDY WILL & GRUFF - ISLAND TIME; SHAWN LEE PRESENTS GOLDEN AGE AGAINST THE MACHINE; DEBRUIT & ALSARAH - ALJAWAL

SHANDY WILL & GRUFF - ISLAND TIME

New Mastersounds bassist and veteran independent music producer Pete Shand finds an outlet for his Jamaican roots with this sun-drenched pop-reggae album, a collaborative studio project recorded between Menorca (where he is now based), Yorkshire (where he hails from) and New York City (where he regularly records & performs) - an international collaboration featuring vocal performances from Brian J (Pimps of Joytime, Brooklyn), Aoife Hearty (Rodina, UK) and Kirsty Rock (Easy-Star All Stars, NYC). Perfect laid-back summer sunshine music. 

Pete explains how the album came about:

"Since I relocated to the island of Menorca some seven years ago, the ambience and cool Balearic pace has been a constant inspiration, so it wasn't too long before it started to be reflected in my music. The formation of SWG as a music-making team occurred quite naturally, with William Woodlock - the musician/producer responsible for introducing me to the island - and Gareth Colley, my long time production partner in UK. Having set out just to have fun and make beats in the sun, as an album began to take shape we consciously decided on a feel-good vibe: holiday music; nothing too challenging or intense. To keep the good times rolling we have featured vocals from our very talented friends on both sides of the Atlantic - respect! We hope you enjoy having our soundtrack in your lives."

SHAWN LEE PRESENTS GOLDEN AGE AGAINST THE MACHINE

A whole new side of Shawn Lee's talents – an album that mixes his great ear for funk with rhymes from a series of guest MCs – all at a level that really takes us back to true school productions of the 90s! Lee's got plenty of 60s and 70s funk and jazz elements in the mix – and a number of tracks are instrumentals, which showcase his deft instrumental creations without any lyrics at all. The vocal tracks are great, too – and feature performances from Ohmega Watts, Braille, Think Tank, MC Shawny Shawn, Princess, Earl Zinger, and others – on tracks that include a great remake of "We Got The Jazz", plus "Wake Up", "Back To The Future", "Stay On Course", "Forward To The Past", "Ashes To Ashes", "Schoolhouse Funk", "Baby Breakin", "Marimba", "Hip Hop Harp", and "Big Bad Wolf". ~ Dusty Groove

DEBRUIT & ALSARAH - ALJAWAL

Weirdly wonderful sounds from Debruit & Alsarah – a duo who offer up their own take on older Sudanese modes – but with a very stripped-down style overall! Most numbers feature just Alsarah's lovely vocals atop beats and keys from Xavier Thomas – used in modes that evoke older folkloric sounds, but with a very contemporary level of expression! The mix is almost a more global version of some of the more inventive projects from the early years of 4AD – and titles include "Khartoum", "Jibal Alnuba", "Alhalim", "Loulia", "Alsahra", "Hawya", and "Jamilla X.O". ~ Dusty Groove 

AL JARREAU TO HONOR THE LEGACY OF HIS DEAR FRIEND GEORGE DUKE TITLED MY OLD FRIEND: CELEBRATING GEORGE DUKE

Domestic Release Scheduled for August 5, 2014 (international release dates may vary)

Includes Guest Artists Gerald Albright, Dianne Reeves, Marcus Miller, Lalah Hathaway, Jeffrey Osborne, Kelly Price, Dr. John and More Plus a special performance by George Duke

The world of music was forever changed in 2013 with the passing of legendary keyboardist, composer and producer George Duke. This year, Al Jarreau, famed vocalist and long-time friend of Duke, re-interprets some of Duke’s renowned catalog of post-bop, jazz-fusion, R&B and Brazilian jazz with My Old Friend: Celebrating George Duke set for release August 5, 2014. Produced by John Burk, Stanley Clarke, Marcus Miller and Boney James, this work also hosts a stellar blend of guest artists including Gerald Albright, Dianne Reeves, Marcus Miller, Lalah Hathaway, Jeffrey Osborne, Kelly Price, Dr. John, and more, with a special appearance by George Duke on the track “Bring Me Joy” which also features Boney James.

My Old Friend will surely extend the legacy of George Duke as well as become another crowning jewel in Jarreau’s own distinguished repertoire. “There are great moments all over this project,” Jarreau says proudly. “I couldn’t possibly cover George’s full range. But I wanted to give people a fun listen with his music for Duke’s diehard fans to once again, enjoy themselves through his music.” The album is now available for pre-order and is part of a Pledge Music campaign where Jarreau is offering fans a first listen, signed CDs, VIP packages and more.

Jarreau first met Duke in 1965 when he moved to San Francisco from his hometown of Milwaukee after a stint with the U.S. Army Reserves. Jarreau was working as a social worker and a rehabilitation counselor while also pounding the San Francisco streets for jazz gigs. A young Duke was already making a name for himself in the city by playing weekends at the Half Note. One Sunday night jam session, Jarreau came upon stage and tore it up. The club owner immediately asked Jarreau if he would be willing to join George Duke’s trio on a regular basis. Jarreau leaped at the opportunity and worked with the George Duke Trio for three years, evening recording a live LP. “We played together three years at that club; it closed in 1968 and George and I moved on. But that was a very important period for me,” Jarreau recalls. 

Pledge Music Available Here: http://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/tributetogeorgeduke

Universal Music Enterprises and Verve Records Celebrate the Sound of Brazil with 19 Bossa Nova Titles from Some of Jazz's Most Cherished and Revered Artists

Stan Getz, Astrud Gilberto, Luiz Bonfa, Coleman Hawkins and Brazilian Legend Carlos Jobim, All Mastered for iTunes

Brazilian culture has always been rich in literature, arts, music, and their love of football (soccer). As Brazil celebrates the return, after almost 65 years, of the 2014 FIFA World Cup™, Universal Music Enterprises celebrates the country’s incredible and influential musical heritage with TODAY's release of 19 bossa nova titles from some of jazz’s most cherished and revered artists including Stan Getz, Astrud Gilberto, Luiz Bonfa, Coleman Hawkins and Brazilian legend Antonio Carlos Jobim, all Mastered For iTunes. With sparkling state-of-the-art fidelity, Mastered for iTunes lets you experience music as the artist and sound engineer intended, capturing every detail in high resolution. This mastering process ensures a pristine listening experience on your computer, stereo, and iPhone, iPad, iPod and current Macs and PCs with iTunes installed.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the landmark, four-time Grammy® Award winning jazz album GETZ/GILBERTO. In May, Verve/Universal Music Enterprises (UMe) released the single-disc GETZ/GILBERTO: Expanded Edition including a newly remastered version of the jazz/bossa nova classic album in both mono and stereo, with the mono version making its CD debut and the stereo album in its original left-right configuration for the first time since its vinyl release. Additional bonus tracks include the U.S. single versions of “The Girl From Ipanema,” a massive hit, and “Corcovado,” its original B-side.

Released on Verve Records in 1964, GETZ/GILBERTO, produced by label head Creed Taylor, was an international sensation, altering the direction of jazz, pop and the samba itself. It became the focus of a huge bossa nova craze, bringing together Getz (tenor saxophone), with Brazilian stars Joao Gilberto (guitar & vocals) and Antonio Carlos Jobim (composer & pianist), who wrote and co-wrote six of the original eight tracks on the album, as well as Joao’s young wife Astrud Gilberto, who was not scheduled to contribute to the album. When Astrud was spontaneously asked to sing new English lyrics to “The Girl From Ipanema,” her charming, sultry vocals made all the difference. “The Girl From Ipanema” reached No. 1 on Billboard’s Adult Contemporary chart and went to No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100. (Astrud is also featured on “Corcovado.”) Other bossa nova classics on the album include “Só Danço Samba,” “Vivo Sonhando,” “O Grande Amor” and “Desafinado.” Backing the main artists is the Brazilian rhythm section of Sebastiao Neto (bass) and Milton Banana (drums).

In 1965, at the seventh annual Grammy® Awards, GETZ/GILBERTO was the first jazz album to win a Grammy® for Album Of The Year, while “The Girl From Ipanema” won Record of the Year. GETZ/GILBERTO also won Best Jazz Instrumental Album and Best Engineered Album, Non-Classical. The album’s engineering award was the first Grammy® for the late, legendary Phil Ramone, who recorded the album at his renowned A&R Recording studio.

Verve/UMe’s GETZ/GILBERTO: Expanded Edition has been remastered from the original first-generation master tapes for the first time on CD, restoring the stereo album to its original left-right stereo configuration – previous Verve reissues used second-generation tape copies that flipped the left-right channels – with fidelity unheard in generations, while the original mono album has been remastered for CD and digital for the first time ever. The new release includes a 28-page booklet with an insightful essay by Marc Myers, who contributes a regular music column to the Wall Street Journal, detailed track annotation and rare photos from the album session.

Ranked one of Rolling Stone’s 500 Greatest Albums Of All Time and Vibe Magazine’s 100 Essential Albums of the 20th Century, GETZ/GILBERTO’s wildly addictive charm proved that the bossa nova had legs—that the infectious syncopated rhythm could be leveraged as easily as the blues to captivate listeners, and forever making an everlasting impact on the world of jazz.

Verve/UMe Bossa Nova Jazz Mastered For iTunes Titles

* Antonio Carlos Jobim

* Antonio Carlos Jobim: The Composer of "Desafinado" Plays

* Antonio Carlos Jobim: Wave

* Astrud Gilberto: Beach Samba

* Astrud Gilberto: I Haven't Got Anything Better To Do

* Astrud Gilberto: Look To The Rainbow

* Astrud Gilberto: The Astrud Gilberto Album

* Astrud Gilberto: Windy

* Coleman Hawkins: Desafinado

* Luiz Bonfa: The Composer of Black Orpheus Plays & Sings Bossa Nova

* Quincy Jones: Big Band Bossa Nova

* Stan Getz & Charlie Byrd: Jazz Samba

* Stan Getz & Joao Gilberto: Getz/Gilberto [standard edition]

* Stan Getz & Joao Gilberto: Getz/Gilberto: Expanded Edition

* Stan Getz: Big Band Bossa Nova

* Stan Getz: Getz Au Go Go

* Stan Getz: Getz/Gilberto #2

* Stan Getz: Jazz Samba Encore!

* Stan Getz: With Guest Artist Laurindo Almeida 

NEW RELEASES: SERGIO MENDES & BRASIL '66 - EQUINOX; IVAN LINS - NOVO TEMPO; JOAO DONATO - LUGAR COMUM

SERGIO MENDES & BRASIL '66 - EQUINOX

The second album by Sergio and crew – and a real push forward for the group! The basic format of two-female harmony leads is still in place – but for some reason, this album gives a bit more of a nod to Brazilian roots than before, and really spices things up with an even more interesting array of songs! There's a bit less of the pop/cover style than before, and a bit more of a nod towards the hipper side of Brazilian music – especially the modernists of the bossa nova generation. Brazilian tunes include versions of "Constant Rain", "Cinnamon & Clove", "Bim Bom", and "Wave" – and there's also a few nice English numbers, like their hit version of "Night & Day", and a great reading of "Watch What Happens"! ~ Dusty Groove

IVAN LINS - NOVO TEMPO

A beautiful album by Ivan Lins – truly one of his greatest records, and a real gem that stands out as one of the best in his already-excellent catalog! The set has Ivan stepping out strongly from his sound of the 70s – working with Gilson Peranzzetta in a set of arrangements that have touches of jazz and a deeply expressive soul that matches Lins' growing vocal confidence wonderfully. Lins' voice is in top form, and the material is extremely strong (in fact, most of the songs are so good, and so catchy, that we've hardly noticed that they weren't in English!) Titles include "Vira", "Arlequim Desconhecido", "Barco Fantasma", "Novo Tempo", and "Coracao Vagabundo". ~ Dusty Groove 

JOAO DONATO - LUGAR COMUM

A sweet electric 70s session from the mighty Joao Donato – very different than his earlier bossa work of the 60s – and with the same funky appeal as the best work on his classic Quem E Quem album! This set's got a tighter feel overall – very much in a samba soul style, with lots of great Brazilian bits mixed up with funk and jazz touches – including a range of great keyboards handled by Donato himself! Drums are by the mighty Wilson Das Neves – who brings in some breaks at a few points – and the whole thing's supremely soulful too – with titles that include the funky classic "Bananeira", plus "Patumbalacunde", "Lugar Comum", "Tudo Tem", and "Naturalmente".  ~ Dusty Groove

NEW RELEASES: LO BORGES - A VIA LACTEA; CAETANO VELOSO - CORES NOMES; TONINHO HORTA - TONINHO HORTA

LO BORGES - A VIA LACTEA

An oft-overlooked gem by the great Lo Borges – known to many for his stunning work with Milton Nasicmento in the early 70s, and still sounding wonderful here in the early 80s! Despite the passage of time, the feel of this one's very similar to Lo's earlier albums – a brilliant mix of fusion-tinged MPB styles, stretching out with all the soulfulness of the Club Da Esquina scene from his days with Nascimento. The album includes Lo's brilliant and oft-compiled remake of "Tudo Que Voce Podia Ser", plus "Nau Sem Rumo", "Vento De Maio", "Equatorial", "Clube Da Esquina No 2", and "Sempre Viva".  ~ Dusty Groove

CAETANO VELOSO - CORES NOMES

Subtle brilliance from Caetano Veloso – just the sort of record to still remind you what a genius he can be, even when he's not hitting you over the head with his music! The style here is relatively straightforward MPB, but still done in a way that's head and shoulders above just about anyone else – songs that have a presence and personality that goes way beyond a simple understanding of language – and which crackle with wonderfully warm vocals from the maturing Caetano. Any sense of softness is more than supported with a deep amount of spirit – and the album's beautifully intimate feel throughout. Titles include the track "Sina", sung with Djavan, "Surpresa", written with Joao Donato, and the tunes "Genesis", "Sonhos", "Meu Bem Meu Mal", and "Trem Das Cores". ~ Dusty Groove

TONINHO HORTA - TONINHO HORTA

One of our favorite records ever from Toninho Horta – a set that's got an airy brilliance that goes beyond most of his other albums! The sound here is amazing – kind of a jazzy extension of territory explored by Milton Nascimento a few years before – served up with a warmly dancing groove with the same fluid feel as Joyce at her best! Horta's getting some wonderful help here to realize his musical vision – a lineup that includes Lo Borges on vocals, plus instrumentation from Wagner Tiso, Raul De Souza, Luis Alves, and Roberto Ribeiro – as well as a guest appearance by Pat Metheny! Titles include the amazing track "Aqui Oh!", plus "Saguin", "Caso Antigo", "Prato Feito", "Vento", "Minha Casa", and "Era So Comeco Nosso Fim". ~ Dusty Groove

NEW RELEASES: NARA LEAO - OS MEUS AMIGOS SAO UM BARATO; BETH CARVALHO - ANDANCA; ASTRUD GILBERTO - WINDY

NARA LEAO - OS MEUS AMIGOS SAO UM BARATO

A wonderful album from Nara Leao – and one that features her singing duets with some of the greatest talents of the bossa era and beyond – an amazing lineup that includes Tom Jobim, Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil, Edu Lobo, Joao Donato, Carlos Lyra, and others! The sound is wonderful – done with an intimate quality that brings a slightly modern variation of older bossa modes – but with some of the cool, dark inflections that Nara always has in her music. Instrumentation includes a fair bit of acoustic elements, and titles include "Repente", "Amazonas", "Cara Bonita", "Nono", "Joao E Maria", and "Sarara Miolo". Great stuff – and one of her best albums from the later years!  ~ Dusty Groove

BETH CARVALHO - ANDANCA

Early and lovely work from Beth Carvalho – a set that's quite different than her later albums, with much more of a 60s bossa diva sound overall! Arrangements are by Lyrio Panicali and Gaya, and the album's got a warmly flowing groove that's right up there with more familiar sides from the Blue Brazil generation – such as work by Doris Monteiro! The Som 3 combo back up Carvalho on most of the album's tracks – making for some great groovy and jazzy elements – and the Golden Boys join in on harmony vocals on a handful of other tracks too! Titles include "Estrela Do Mar", "Maria Da Vavela", "Sentinela", "Rumo Sul", "Maria Aninha", "Carnaval", "Samba Do Perdao", and "Fechei A Parta". CD features 10 bonus tracks – including "Minie", "Essa Passou", "Meu Tamborim", "Berenice", "So quero Ver", and "Minhas Tardes De Sol". ~ Dusty Groove

ASTRUD GILBERTO - WINDY

One of the hardest to find Astrud Gilberto records on Verve – and one of the best! Deodato, Don Sebesky, and Pat Williams did the arrangements – and the sound here is a bit different than some of the straighter Gilberto sets of the time – still very bossa-inspired, but also in a style that mixes in some great Sunshine Pop and 60s easy influences too – particularly on the tracks arranged by Williams! Tracks are all quite short, but get a heck of a lot of magic into a tiny space – and the album features some really wonderful songs that break Gilberto's pattern a bit – including versions of the Marcos Valle tracks "Crickets Sing For Anamaria" and "Chup Chup, I Got Away" – plus takes on "Windy", "Sing Me A Rainbow", "Never My Love", and "Where Are They Now?" ~ Dusty Groove

NEW RELEASES: BADEN POWELL - LE MONDE MUSICAL DE BADEN POWEL VOL 2; JOYCE - FEMININA; IVAN LINS - A NOITE

BADEN POWELL - LE MONDE MUSICAL DE BADEN POWEL VOL 2

Some of the first recordings done by Baden Powell outside of Brazil – and already an indication that his work with the European scene was a very good thing! The record has Powell upfront on guitar and vocals, but working with these great arrangements from arranger/trumpeter Ivan Jullien – who plays on the record in a small combo that features other percussion, and some really great flute from Raymond Guiot! The mix of flute with Baden's bossa elements is very nice – and really prefaces some later experiments that would have Powell bringing even more European elements to his music. The overall vibe is a great precursor to Baden's later work for MPS – and titles include "Lapinha", "Aria", "Formosa", "Tres Historias", "Martinia", "Ao Meu Amigo Pedro Santos", and "Lemanja". ~ Dusty Groove

JOYCE - FEMININA

Beauty, pure beauty – one of Joyce's greatest albums – and maybe the first record we'd point to for anyone interested in her music! The set's an incredible blend of vocals, acoustic guitar, and these lightly gentle arrangements – all at this new level of expression that still recognizes Joyce's bossa roots, but really moves beyond with all the sophistication of MPB in the 70s! The sound of the whole thing is wonderful – completely transcendent and mesmerizing right from the start – and Joyce penned most of the tunes and handled the arrangements – with help from Gilson Peranzzetta on a few tracks. Titles include the classic "Feminina", plus "Essa Mulher", "Coracao De Crianca", "Aldeia De Ogum", "Compor", and "Misterios". If you buy just one Joyce album in your life, this might well be it!  ~ Dusty Groove

IVAN LINS - A NOITE

A really wonderful album from Ivan Lins – filled with life, soul, and a free sense of spirit that reminds us of some of Milton Nascimento's best work from the same period! Ivan's vocals are set amidst some heavenly arrangements by Gilson Peranzzetta – done with just the right amount of jazz in the mix, and a nice blend of instrumentation that often includes electric piano and a bit of strings. Lins is at the height of his powers here, both vocally and in terms of his songwriting – and the album ranks as one of his best from the time. Titles include "A Voz Do Povo", "Formigueiro", "Antes Que Seja Tarde", and "Noites Sertanejas".  ~ Dusty Groove

NEW RELEASES: ASTRUD GILBERTO - JAPANESE ALBUM; JOEGE BEN - BIG BEN; JOYCE - AGUA E LUZ

ASTRUD GILBERTO - ASTRUD GILBERTO JAPANESE ALBUM

A lost treasure – and one of the rarest albums in Astrud Gilberto's career! The set's a special Japanese-only session – recorded in 1969, and featuring all new Japanese lyrics to a number of Astrud's biggest hits – plus some wonderful new tracks done especially for the session! The backings are all new too – and a great blend of light orchestrations and sweet jazzy touches, in a mode that recalls the hippest style of Astrud's late 60s Verve recordings – and which carries the tunes with a lovely groove that wraps you up so much, you hardly notice that you can't understand the language! Titles include "A Man & A Woman", "Life For Life", "Shadow Of Your Smile", "Street Samba", "I Love Old Love", "You I & Love", "Cupid's Song", and "White Waves".  ~ Dusty Groove 

JORGE BEN - BIG BEN

Brilliant early work from Jorge Ben – a set that shouldn't be confused with the US album of the same name, and which is one of Jorge's first few gems of the 60s! The album's got Ben stepping out with a slightly jazzier feel than on his debut – a style that's still heavily steeped in the guitar-driven samba that first won him fame, but which also features a fair bit of bossa-influenced instrumentation too – bits of piano, flute, and horns that echo with some darker colors and tones that really add a lot to the tunes! The backings are never too full – nor too full of themselves – but this added level of sophistication really helps push Jorge into a range of fresh new sounds – and that's saying a lot, given how fresh his music from the time already was. Titles include "Agora Ninguem Chora Mais", "Telefone De Brotinho", "Patapatapata", "Na Bahia Tem", "Jorge Well", "Deixa O Menino Brincar", "Bom Mesmo E Amar", and "O Homem Que Matou O Homem Que Matou O Homem Mau". ~ Dusty Groove

JOYCE - AGUA E LUZ

An amazing mix of jazzy vocals, sparkling production, and beautiful light guitar – the younger Joyce at her best – in a wonderfully uncluttered style that makes the record a treasure all the way through! Joyce sings and plays acoustic guitar – and gets these lightly jazzy backings that often feature a bit of electricity, but never too much to dampen the acoustic heart of the record – that great sense of personality that's always made Joyce unlike any other Brazilian artist we can think of – even though so many others have tried to copy her style over the years! Joyce did all the arrangements herself, Sivuca guests on one track – and titles include "Muito Prazer", "Samba De Gago", "Agua E Luz", "Mais Uma Vez, Mais Uma Voiz", "Banho Maria", and "Meio A Meio".  ~ Dusty Groove

JOE BONAMASSA TO RELEASE NEW SOLO ALBUM "DIFFERENT SHADES OF BLUE" ON SEPTEMBER 23

GRAMMY-nominated guitar superstar Joe Bonamassa has announced that his brand new solo album Different Shades Of Blue (J&R Adventures) to be released September 23, 2014. This is Bonamassa's first studio album in two years and the first album of his career to feature all original material. The result is a record with more of an experimental edge than previous Bonamassa records. It's a blues record that explores the outer reaches and the many different sounds that shape the genre.

"It's been a while since I've been involved in the writing on an entire album. So I decided I wanted to make a completely original blues album," said Bonamassa. "I've really had to push myself to make everything I do better than the last project. I know the fans expect it. And I feel like I owe it to the fans to give them an original record after all these years."

To prepare for the record, Bonamassa took 2013 off from releasing any new studio material, a rarity in the tireless bluesman's career, and instead spent time in Nashville writing with Jonathan Cain (Journey), known for hits "Who's Crying Now," "Open Arms," and "When You Love A Woman;" James House (Diamond Rio, Dwight Yoakam, Martina McBride), and Jerry Flowers (Keith Urban).

"The writers really inspired me, and having access to really great lyricists and songwriters made it such a great experience," said Bonamassa.

Recorded at Studio At The Palms in Las Vegas, NV, Different Shades Of Blue was produced by Kevin Shirley (Black Crowes, Aerosmith, Led Zeppelin), who has helmed Bonamassa's last fifteen projects including his solo projects and collaborations with Black Country Communion and Beth Hart. To compliment Bonamassa's signature guitar style and vocals, Shirley brought together a group of musicians including Reese Wynans (organ, piano), Carmine Rojas (bass), Michael Rhodes (bass), Anton Fig (drums, percussion), Lenny Castro (percussion), Lee Thornburg (trumpet, trombone), Ron Dziubla (saxophone), the Bovaland Orchestra (strings), and Doug Henthorn and Melanie Williams (background vocals).

"It's definitely my favorite Joe Bonamassa record to date," said Shirley. "It's an album that deserves to be listened to in its entirety. Luckily Joe's fan base really seems to appreciate a body of work and not just songs."

Each year, Bonamassa strives to deliver something new for his fans to thank them for their loyalty, dedication, and enthusiastic activity on Twitter, YouTube, Instagram and Facebook which has helped grow the guitarist's reputation exponentially in the U.S. and abroad.

Shirley said, "I think Joe has learned the value of not underestimating his audience. He plays music as well as he can, and always tries to bring music of depth to his audience. We try very hard to make the records as multidimensional as possible and really try not to cut any corners in delivering them."

Bonamassa has twelve #1 Billboard Blues Albums (more than any other artist) and received his first GRAMMY nomination in 2013 for his collaboration with Beth Hart on the duo's sophomore album Seesaw. His 2013 solo acoustic project An Acoustic Evening at the Vienna Opera House was nominated by the Blues Music Awards for Best DVD and his 2009 DVD Live From The Royal Albert Hall recently received RIAA Platinum Certification.

http://jbonamassa.com/

https://www.facebook.com/JoeBonamassa

NEW RELEASES: GIORGIO MORODER - GIORGIO'S THEME; JOSE JAMES - WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING; GILBERTO GIL - GILBERTO'S SAMBA

GIORGIO MORODER - GIORGIO'S THEME

Electronic disco super-producer Giorgio Moroder has released a new single called "Giorgio's Theme" on June 9th. According to Moroder, "It's not EDM," Moroder says of the new track, which he describes as having "some arpeggios and nice chords." The single “Giorgio’s Theme” is currently available as a free download by Adult Swim's label, Williams Street Records. The song has a synth line reminiscent of Donna Summer's "I Feel Love," and the track finds Moroder moving his spacious melodic grooves through a funky guitar interlude and two sparse piano breakdowns that are reminiscent of his 70s er disco tracks. Moroder’s recent resurgence is to due to the huge success of Daft Punks’ Random Access Memories album which features Moroder, among other artists. Moroder will be performing at the Pitchfork Music Festival on Friday, July 18th. Free download: http://video.adultswim.com/music/singles-2014/

JOSE JAMES - WHILE YOU WERE SLEEPING

Jose James sounds even deeper than ever here – really moving forward with that amazing voice, and really finding a special space between all the jazz, soul, and funk projects of previous years! The album has James almost emerging as a singer who can span genres and reach out to new scenes – especially on some of the tunes that make heavier use of fuzzy guitar than before, and which have a seductive appeal that's bound to grab any ears that haven't been tuned to Jose's music so far! Yet other tracks still hold onto those great roots that made us love him so many records back – a classic style of soulful expression that hearkens back to giants of the 70s, but which always has this 21st century bristle and unique sense of phrasing. Backings are heavy on organ, Fender Rhodes, and other keyboards – and titles include "Angel", "Simply Beautiful", "Salaam", "Without U", "Every Little Thing", "Bodhisattva", "Anywhere U Go", and "While You Were Sleeping". ~ Dusty Groove

GILBERTO GIL - GILBERTO'S SAMBA

One of the best records we've heard from Gilberto Gil in many, many years – a stripped-down session that focuses on his voice and guitar work – in a style that takes us back to Gil's earliest days in music! The album feels like some lost session that Gilberto might have recorded in the 60s – before his Louvacao debut – done with mostly just a bit of light percussion from the enigmatic Domenico, plus some help from Moreno Veloso – who also co-produced the record as well, with that great sense of space he always brings to his own music too. A few cuts feature extra touches – a bit of accordion, or some flute from Danilo Caymmi – but the main focus is on Gil, who hasn't sounded this great in years – still able to capture our imagination when he works in a straightforward style like this. Titles include "Milagre", "Um Abraco No Joao", "Tim Tim Por Tim Tim", "Eu Sambo Mesmo", "Aos Pes Da Cruz", and "Desde Que O Samba E Samba". ~ Dusty Groove

NEW RELEASES: KAROL CONKA - BATUKFREAK; LION VS DUB CLUB – THIS GENERATION IN DUB; MAX IONATA QUARTET - INSPIRATION LIVE

KAROL CONKA - BATUKFREAK

Beat-heavy Brazilian work from Karol Conka – a set that's got some of the same urban vibe of the baile beat work of a few years back, but which also focuses the energy into a tighter, more compact R&B groove! Karol rhymes her way along the groove, but at a pace that's a bit more laidback than some of her contemporaries – and the rhythms bring in lots of earthy, organic elements alongside the electronic ones – creating this fusion of favela roots and contemporary urban – on tracks that include "Caxambu", "Gueto Ao Luxo", "Sandalia", "Boa Noite", "Gandala", "Bate A Poeira", and "Vo La".  ~ Dusty Groove

LION VS DUB CLUB – THIS GENERATION IN DUB

A dubbed-up version of The Lions album This Generation – done at a level that's very faithful to the format, especially considering the classic Kingston vibe of the original versions! There's a few new bits here – greatly extrapolated from the album's recordings – but most numbers are just laidback and open variants with lots of low-end sound – heavy dub and plenty of echo throughout. Titles include "Revelations (Alphabet City dub)", "Dub It Tonight", "Easy Dub", "New Dub", "Picture On The Wall (pink dub)", "This Generation (skronk dub)", and "Roll It Round (crushed dub)". ~ Dusty Groove

MAX IONATA QUARTET - INSPIRATION LIVE

Brilliant work from saxophonist Max Ionata – one of our favorite musicians on the Italian scene in recent years – and a player who does a wonderful job of mixing the contemporary with the classic! The album's steeped in older hardbop modes – especially when Max is on tenor – but the overall phrasing and swing of the set picks up some modern elements too – some of the wonderful colors and richer lyricism that you'll find in the best Italian musicians – and just a touch of snapping rhythm at the right points, showing some of these players' link to the world of Schema. Ionata plays both tenor and soprano sax – and the quartet features Luca Mannutza on piano, Giuseppe Bassi on bass, and Nicola Angelucci on drums. Titles include the originals "I Hope I Wish", "Blue Art", "ESC", and "Aurora" – plus "Luiza" and "When Will The Blues Leave". ~ Dusty Groove

NEW RELEASES: QUANTIC - MAGNETICA; IKEBE SHAKEDOWN - STONE BY STONE; FATBOY SLIM PRESENTS BEM BRAZIL

QUANTIC - MAGNETICA

Quantic goes back to the old school with this sweet little set – and by that, we mean his own old school – from the years when he was mixing a lot more electric elements in his music! The record takes all the great Quantic sounds in recent years – his experiments with deep funk, Latin, and other global styles – and brings them back to that crispy production sound of the earliest Quantic records for Tru Thoughts – albums we really loved, but which also never had the sort of depth of this one either! The colors, flavors, sounds, and styles are stunning – definitely that rich tapestry that Quantic's come to express over the past decade – and if anything, the album's even more striking in the way he brings it all together with his magical touch. Guests include Alice Russell, Shinehead, Pongo Love, and Nidia Gongora – and titles include "La Planta", "Soul Clap", "Magnetica", "You Will Return", "Painting Silhouettes", "Aguas De Sorongo", and "La Callejera". ~ Dusty Groove

IKEBE SHAKEDOWN - STONE BY STONE

A really great second album from Ikebe Shakedown – easily the group's best work so far, and a real cut above the usual Afro-styled groove! These guys have a great way of laying back in their rhythms – still keeping things funky, but nicely paced too – so that there's a fresh feel to the way they layer together their horns and percussion, and let the keyboards nicely simmer away in the groove! The style's a bit like what El Michels did to more conventional funk groups – with the same sort of super-dope results – and the whole thing was recorded perfectly at the Daptone Studios, with a massively old school sort of vibe. The whole thing's instrumental, and titles include "The Beast", "Rio Grande", "The Offering", "Stone By Stone", "Last Stand", "Dram", "Chosen Path", and "Cover Your Tracks". ~ Dusty Groove

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FATBOY SLIM PRESENTS BEM BRAZIL

The contemporary sound of Brazil, offered up here in a set of 21st Century tracks and remixes – headed up by Fatboy Slim in service of the 2014 World Cup! The package features some older tracks remixed, and some newer ones that bristle with heavy beats and the kind of bassy rhythms that have been big in Rio and Sao Paulo in recent years – although the producers and mixers here are from a range of global sources. The 2CD set features 20 titles in all – and tracks include "Taj Mahal (Felguk rmx)" by Jorge Ben, "Everybody Loves A Carnival" by Fatboy Slim, "Sensualizar (Nervo rmx)" by Rio Shock, "O Cavaleiro E Os Moinhos (Yousef rmx)" by Elis Regina, "Stuttgart (John Digweed & Nick Muir rmx)" by Tosca, "Toda Menina Baiana (Ashley Beedle's Black Bahia rework)" by Gilberto Gil, "Agibore (DJ Marky's Ye Mele rework)" by MPB4, "Aldeia De Ogum (Psychemagik remix)" by Joce Moreno, and "Put Your Hands Up For Brasil (Fatboy Slim edit)" by Fedde Le Grand. ~ Dusty Groove