New Music Releases From Bob James, David Philips/Abel Boquera, Dave Scott

Bob James - Once Upon A Time: The Lost 1965 New York Studio Sessions

Captured with no audience at Wollman Auditorium in New York City in 1965 by Resonance founder and co-president George Klabin, Once Upon A Time: The Lost 1965 New York Studio Sessions features previously unreleased studio recordings from pianist Bob James. This release features James with two different trio settings - one from January 20, 1965 with bassist Larry Rockwell and drummer Bob Pozar, and another from October 9, 1965 with bassist Bill Wood and drummer Omar Clay - performing a mix of jazz standards and original compositions. The title track "Once Upon A Time" was named by James as an homage to the ONCE Festival of New Music in Ann Arbor, MI which ran from 1961-1966 and holds a special place in his early musical career. The package includes an extensive booklet with essays by jazz writer Mark Stryker (Jazz from Detroit) and engineer George Klabin; a new interview with Bob James by Zev Feldman, and 2011 interview with Bob Pozar by Hank Shteamer (Rolling Stone); plus rare archival photographs.

David Philips & Abel Boquera - The Duo Sessions

David Philips and his good friend and keyboard wizard Abel Boquera have been playing in bands together for the past 10+ years. Last year they decided to get together in Abel's studio to make a few videos playing duo. The audio from this session is what you find here. Abel played an old 1970s Fender Rhodes electric piano and mixed/mastered the session. The first 2 songs are David's originals from his record "Get Along" and the last was a bit of fun; a cover version of the Michael Jackson hit "The Way You Make Me Feel."

Dave Scott - Ambiguity

Trumpeter Dave Scott has a sense of urgency here that we may never have heard before – a real edge in his horn, with a quality that comes through right from the very first note – and which continues to grow and shift in a set of all original compositions that definitely has us listening to Scott with a new sense of attention! The group is very well-suited to his shifting musical moods here – sometimes swinging, but sometimes more tentative and moody – served well by the quintet lineup of Rich Perry on tenor, Gary Versace on piano, John Hebert on bass, and Billy Mintz on drums. Titles include "Special Sauce", "Song For Janie", "Ambiguity", "Diligence", and "Obscurity". ~ Dusty Groove

Worldly Jazz Trio La Lucha's "Everybody Wants To Rule The World"

La Lucha presents their newest album and debut for Arbors Records, Everybody Wants To Rule The World. This project displays the telepathic interplay you expect from a band that’s been together for years. The trio consists of best friends from three different parts of the world: Colombia (Alejandro Arenas), Mexico (John O’Leary), and the United States (Mark Feinman), who met in 2006. The combination of these three spirited personalities has endeared listeners to the band, and to an ever-widening circle of collaborators. La Lucha has built an impressive resume performing with jazz legends including Randy Brecker, Dick Hyman, Charles McPherson, Wycliffe Gordon, Marty Morell; as well as, the renowned guests that appear on this album: Melissa Aldana, Ken Peplowski, Chuck Redd, Diego Figueiredo, and Houston Person.

Beautifully produced by clarinetist Ken Peplowski, this album features a diverse and creative group of musicians with widely eclectic interests. From punk to heavy metal, salsa, jazz, world music, and even classical tuba, La Lucha melds their energies and unique musical and cultural backgrounds to create their sound. This is evident in their original compositions as well as the choice of cover material, including Latin American styles, American Songbook standards, and self-described ‘twisted arrangements’ of pop tunes. Having grown up in very different parts of the world with varied musical influences permeates throughout the music. “We find that jazz is the perfect vehicle for those differences to meld together, due to the freedom that exists within it. There is also a wonderful human and musical coexistence within La Lucha and that gives us a joy that sets the tone of what we do.”

Everybody Wants To Rule The World opens with the virtuosic playing of Brazilian guitarist Diego Figueiredo in “Por La Tarde,” an original by Arenas that was influenced by the Colombian music style Bambuco. Followed up by “Space Oddity,” crafted with the original Bowie recording in mind, and produced with background colors and sounds of a Moog synthesizer. “Lullaby Medley” melds two songs that have nothing in common but the titles, showcasing vibraphonist Chuck Redd. Written expressly for their friend and the only song on the album to have a straight ahead swing feel, “Blues For Houston Person” displays the deep innate sense of blues that saxophonist Houston Person personifies.

“1+2” lays out a haunting melody composed by Feinman, inspired by his journey through new parenthood written after his daughter was born last May. This number also acts as the first appearance on the album by one of the truly great saxophonists on the scene, Melissa Aldana.

There's so much compositional strength in this trio, not least of which is O’Leary, whose theme “The Sundering” is a sinuous and tricky melody, which shows how incredibly tight La Lucha moves together as a band. “I was born in Mexico to a Mexican mother and an American father; the summer before my 13th birthday, my mother and I packed our bags and left everything behind to have a chance at the American Dream.” O’Leary explains, “The Sundering" is a piece dedicated to the immigrant families that are separated from their children at our southern border. They weren’t as fortunate as me to be born Americans. That could have been me.”

"Otra Vez” is a catchy melody written by Feinman who describes it as a “Jewish Cumbia” and features Peplowski and Aldana. “Sometimes it’s just a spark of an idea that expands once we start exploring, other times it’s a full-fledged idea that the guys beautifully arrange.” Feinman spoke on their shared writing experience, “Having shared interests and experiencing new adventures with my brothers, I always compose specifically for Alejandro and John.” “Don't Talk” is a timeless melody by Brian Wilson, and La Lucha makes it sound like it belongs to them while still honoring the original.

The title track of the recording, “Everybody Wants To Rule The World,” features Aldana answering herself as a "ghost" voice, and captures the essence of the lyrics in the original recording. “Lilis,” also written by Arenas, shows another side of La Lucha, channeling the great soul and funk recordings of times gone by, but filtered through their own perspective. “Dance Dance Dance” is a pop song by Feinman with a “Billy Preston meets Yes” tone to it. Patrick Swayze’s hit “She's Like The Wind” from the movie Dirty Dancing is played with very simpatico trio playing and occasional Fender Rhodes comments by Peplowski. The record closes with a Brazilian chorus singing at the end of this very blissful number, “Samba Pra Diego” written by Arenas for Figueiredo.

With a name meaning ‘the fight or struggle,’ La Lucha positively reminds the audience to overcome whatever one needs, including the obstacles found in living with a commitment to an artistic life. “Trust is at the core of what we do. Our approach to writing and arranging music is very democratic, because each member of the group is an essential part of the La Lucha sound and brings something unique to the table. The sound we have is impossible to achieve without this particular combination of individuals, and that sound is the essence of our music.”

Citrus Blue – Expansions And Visions

"If you look at Incognito as being the flagship of my career, consider Citrus Sun as being the indulgent - and for fun only - speedboat that rides alongside her" That is Bluey explaining his love for Citrus Sun, who deliver their fourth album Expansions and Visions. "This band is our getaway, our live-for-the-moment statement", he says. And for the second album running, the band did literally get away - to Krabi on southern Thailand's West coast, where they enjoyed a life of beach and boat trips by day and writing and recording by night. 

The core of Citrus Sun is the Incognito rhythm section - Bluey, keyboard player Matt Cooper, bassist Francis Hylton, guitarist Francisco Sales and drummer Francesco Mendolia - who are joined by guest musicians and singers. A gritty reworking of the Ashford-Simpson classic "California Soul" features Noel McKoy, with background vocals from Jamiroquai's Valerie Etienne and Hazel Fernandes. Valerie also takes the lead on a blistering version of Lonnie Liston Smith's "Expansions", described by Bluey as "a pivotal song in the soundtrack of our lives". Legendary UK guitarist Jim Mullen returns on "Expansions", "Stay You" (a Seventies-styled tribute to the late Leon Ware) and a very funky instrumental "Hard Boiled". 

Featured on much of the album is the youngest addition to the band, 22-year-old Indonesian harmonica sensation Rega Dauna, who delivers a solo on the jazz funk tune "A Lust For Life" with a maturity which belies his age. Also showcased on that track are the band's Portuguese guitarist Francisco Sales and Dominic Glover on trumpet. Bluey himself contributes vocals on several of the cuts, including the album closer "Thinking Of You", a gorgeous soulful bossa duet with American singer Deborah Bond.

New Music From Flevans, Andrea Scala, Fanflures Brass Band

Flevans - Accumulate

Gathering up all his favourite styles - funk, soul, disco, house, quirky pop and cinematic sounds, multi-instrumentalist Flevans has created his latest studio album "Accumulate", that draws from all but is still undeniably his own. Working with a crack team of collaborators he’s served up another absolute gem of a record that is more lyrical than any of his work before. One of the stars of the last album Laura Vane (MJ Cole, Cee Lo Green) returns to the fold to front four tracks with her versatile and powerful vocal. Label mate, Smoove & Turrell front man, and all-round Geordie extraordinaire John Turrell also gets to flex his tones on the wonderfully upbeat northern soul gem "Silly Games". Plus there are two unique cuts with the mysterious Scooby Jones, a man who has worked and toured with acts as diverse as Ed Sheeran, The Black Eyed Peas, Craig David and more. Really, there’s no gamble here, just another killer LP - Flevans has speculated, so you can accumulate!

Andrea Scala - Coming Back, Leaving Again

Italian drummer Andrea Scala  wrote and produced the Coming Back, Leaving Again album in Italy with pianist, arranger and producer Fabio Raponi (Dionne Warwick, Royal Philharmonic Orchestra of London, musician and arranger for Sony Music, BMG, RCA, etc.). Collaborators on the album included talented Italian and international musician friends, such as the talented Roberto Tarenzi (he played in the studio and live with Dave Liebman, Max Roach, John Patitucci, James Cammack), bassist Francesco Puglisi (Randy Brecker, Sarah Jane Morris, Mina, Fabrizio Bosso, etc.), The guitarist Nicola Costa (Ennio Morricone, Nicola Piovani, Darryl Jones, etc.), The guitarist Manlio Maresca (Neo with the recording of Steve Albini, Andymusic, etc.), among talented jazz musicians. The musical style of the album is modern jazz/alternative/avant garde.

Fanflures Brass Band – La Rumeur D’or

It’s the 2nd Album release for the french Brass Band mixing Jazz - Funk - Hip Hop and Swing into a new highly energetic album. After their first album "Dans ta Face!" (2016), with pure Funk New Orleans, spotted by les inrocks Web, in a traditional way referred as Hot 8 brass band or Rebirth brass band, les FFLRES Brass Band went digging into more actual sound with a cover of the french band "Saian Supa crew" for a Latin - Ragga Brass Band cover which got some succes with brass band lover (100 000 stream on spotify, and radio air plays). For 2019, the band goes further into this direction for the 2nd album with more compositions and a more actual sound with a lot of different influences, like swing, hip hop, pop and funk.

Dee Dee Bridgewater – Afro Blue

If you collect vintage 70's soul-jazz vinyl, there is a good chance that you already own a record that features the amazing vocal talents of Dee Dee Bridgewater. Whether it be Roy Ayers, Norman Connors, Billy Parker or Carlos Garnett - Dee Dee is the glue that fuses these artists together. Although best known for her jazz work, Dee Dee has had a wonderfully rich and varied career encompassing soul, musicals, gospel, and underground disco from the 70's to the present day. 

She is still active as a vocalist, composer, and producer and remains one of our favourite vocalists at Mr Bongo HQ. We take things back to the early years of Dee Dee's career with her debut album 'Afro Blue'. Recorded in Tokyo in 1974, the album was released exclusively in Japan via two different Japanese labels (Trio Records in 1974 and All Art in 1985 respectively). 

Each release had unique cover art and we have opted to present the album in its original 1974 form.'Afro Blue' features an exquisite collaboration of American and Japanese musicians, such as Cecil & Ron Bridgewater, Motohiko Hino and producer Takao Ishizuka. The result is a sublime deep soul-jazz masterpiece with timeless versions of 'People Make The World Go Round', 'Love From The Sun', and 'Afro Blue'. It is arguably one of the finest albums in its genre. This record has long been a sought-after item for DJs and collectors alike, so we are delighted to finally make this wonderful music from an understated great available to all.

David Sanborn - Anything You Want ~ The Warner / Reprise / Elektra Years (1975-1999)

Over an astounding career that began as a blues sideman at age14 then evolving into one of the most in-demand and imitated musicians across genres, saxophonist David Sanborn is a living legend. Distinguished by a biting, ear-bending tone and a penchant for soulfully explosive runs, Sanborn’s sound has graced great recordings by artists that include David Bowie, Stevie Wonder, Elton John, Donny Hathaway, Chaka Khan, The Temptations, Jaco Pastorius, Kenny Loggins, Todd Rundgren, Esther Phillips and Bob James. 

As an artist, Sanborn earned 8 gold records, a platinum-seller, won six Grammys, and topped international critics and readers polls. On July 30, David Sanborn turns 75-years-old while 2020 additionally marks the 45th anniversary of his debut LP as a leader. In honor of these milestones, SoulMusic Records proudly presents this 3-disc “audio travelogue” that covers the arc of his artistry like no other. “David Sanborn - Anything You Want: The Warner-Reprise-Elektra Years (1975-1999)” salutes Sanborn by taking a deep dive into the 17 albums he recorded as a solo artist within the highly impressionable 25-year period he was earning a reputation for world alto saxophone dominance. 

From Taking Off (Warner - 1975) to Close-Up (Reprise - 1988) through Inside (Elektra - 1999). Produced by Los Angeles-based musicologist A. Scott Galloway with co-production by SoulMusic.com founder David Nathan, this deluxe package explores David Sanborn’s catalogue in an artful approach - an immersive 45-song experience, filled with cherry-picked radio edits, rare mixes, live versions and overlooked album cut gems that present Sanborn at his eclectic, emotive finest. Each of the three discs covers a specific aspect of Sanborn’s vibe, offering a variety of palate-pleasing styles that plays out like three 15-song feasts in one.

New Music From Ryan Perry, R.L. Walker, Herb Alpert

Ryan Perry – High Risk, Low Reward

Like all the great artists, Ryan Perry isn't afraid to rip it up and start again. Since 2007, the Mississippi bandleader has blazed a reputation in the award-winning Homemade Jamz Blues Band. But when it came to his solo debut, Perry took a leap of faith and trusted his talent to land him safe on the other side. Now, High Risk, Low Reward announces the touchdown of a solo artist to treasure. This album," he says, "was the hardest thing I've done to date." Driven by Perry's soulful guitar and fathoms-deep vocal, High Risk, Low Reward will thrill long-standing followers of the Homemade Jamz Blues Band. But the eleven songs that Perry tracked at Berlin's Studio Erde with producer Roger Inniss will sweep up a whole new fanbase too. From the classic porch-blues vibe of the title track, to Hard Times' torn-and-frayed ode to struggle in modern America, this is an album that touches every generation that hears it. Ain't Afraid To Eat Alone is funky and heartfelt, opening with a stinging lead-guitar intro that sets the standard. Homesick has a mid-tempo funk-blues lick and a heavy heart, while other standouts find Perry reflecting on his own broken-down relationships. On Changing Blues, the bandleader considers where his beloved genre might roam from here. "The blues has changed in the past twenty years," he considers. "What will it sound like in twenty more?" Wherever the blues scene goes, expect Ryan Perry to be at the head of the pack, still addressing age-old truths, but serving them up with a vigour and vision that chimes with fresh listeners. "The new generation of the blues is here now," he nods. "And it's here to stay"

R. L. Walker - Coming Big

The three words that form the acronym in big, in COMING BIG, (Blessed. Inspired. Genuine.), the 6th independently released solo album by sensual, easy-grooving saxophonist R.L. Walker, says it all about his intentions and the dynamic vibes he shares. Drawing from his personal spiritual path and background in gospel music, he’s truly feeling blessed, inspired and genuinely showcasing his skillset! Like other gospel/jazz saxophonists such as Kirk Whalum, Walker has a few direct references to his faith, but mostly, his passion plays out via sensual, infectious ballads of varying tempos and old school, soul-jazz leanings. Guests include bassist Brendan Rothwell, vocalist Demetriace “Chee Chee” Jordan and keyboardist/producer/arranger Lew Laing Jr. ~ smoothjazz.com

Herb Alpert - From Legal Eagles To Tijuana Brass 1958-1962

Before he arrived in the US Top 10 in November 1962, accompanied by The Tijuana Brass and their 'Lonely Bull', trumpeter HERB ALPERT had spent four years cutting mainstream Pop 45s, under various aliases. These early 45s run to eight releases, an intriguing body of work which takes in popcorn teen vocals (three of which were bizarrely released under his newborn baby son's name, Dore Alpert), R&R and a novelty debut 45. This unique compilation comprises these early 45s, alongside the mono single version of his breakthrough hit 'The Lonely Bull' and the first, million-selling Tijuana Brass LP, in stereo. Includes the "slowed-down" version of his rare-as-hens-teeth collectors' instro 'Fun House', which was released as The Roosters. These early, pre-Tijuana Brass 45s are unavailable elsewhere on CD, thus making this compilation indispensable to Herb Alpert collectors.

Brian Andres Debuts New Trio Latino Project On "Mayan Suite"

Brian Andres Trio Latino Mayan Suite Drummer Brian Andres unleashes an electrifying new project with the release of Mayan Suite, the inaugural recording of his Trio Latino, on Bacalao Records. Though it finds Andres stepping back from his longtime leadership of the eight-piece Afro-Cuban Jazz Cartel, the new trio (featuring pianist Christian Tumalan and bassist Aaron Germain) shows itself to be every bit as musically rich as the larger ensemble. What's more, the album's striking originals and zesty interpretations find the band equaling that richness with audacity. 

Indeed, Andres created the trio in the hope of finding just such an emboldened style. With fewer voices, he says, "There's much more space to explore, for creative expression, and with that freedom there's greater responsibilities for all three of us." 

In fact, Tumalan and Germain fulfill both their freedom and their responsibility in supplying all of Mayan Suite's original compositions. The pianist brings three -- including the title track, a five-part series of hard-grooving miniatures that packs fully realized statements as well as satisfying improvisations into a remarkable seven-and-a-half-minute journey. Yet Tumalan shows no less ambition in the adrenaline rush of "Viento Solar" or the wistful tenderness of "Si Tu Vez." Germain, meanwhile, presents dazzling, dancing Latin syncopation on "Escucha" and a light-stepping aura of mystery on "Higashi Nakano." 

That is not, however, to understate the merit of the musicians' playing. Andres, Tumalan, and Germain balance their considerable chops with invention and eloquence, whether on the thrilling originals or the fiery renditions of Chick Corea's "Got a Match?" and the standard "On Green Dolphin Street." It's not happenstance that all three are rhythm players: Trio Latino's prowess on Mayan Suite, collectively and as soloists, comes in the service of irresistibly kinetic grooves drawn from the Afro-Latin jazz canon. 

"Whether it's bomba or mambo, whether there's a hand drummer or not, those rhythms are represented," Andres says. "Aaron and Christian are steeped in those traditions. One of the things about this trio, I wanted us individually to have a voice of our own." Of that, Mayan Suite leaves no doubt. 

Brian Andres Brian Andres was born Nov. 7, 1968 in Cincinnati, Ohio to musical parents: His father played woodwinds, his mother piano and vocals. The younger Andres naturally followed their example, taking up the drums at the age of nine. He continued through high school and into the College-Conservatory of Music before beginning his most intensive education, playing the blues with Cincinnati Slim and the Headhunters. It was the first of many gigs, in many styles. 

Yet it was while hearing someone else's band -- a salsa band -- that Andres's life was changed. The neck- and shoulder-twisting polyrhythms took him over completely; he immediately formed his own Latin jazz outfit and began consuming the grooves wherever and whenever he could. He was particularly drawn to the concentration of musicians in the San Francisco Bay Area, one of whom, Paul van Wageningen, was so friendly and inspiring that Andres soon made the move to Northern California himself. 

It was there that Andres found his groove, so to speak. He jelled with Latin musicians of all stripes, found work in multiple projects, and fronted his own Afro-Latin Jazz Cartel -- with whom he recorded his first album, Drummers Speak, in 2007. 

He has continued at the head of the octet for over a decade: they have received critical acclaim, recorded two more albums (San Francisco, 2013; This Could Be That, 2016), and worked with the cream of the crop of Latin jazz talent in the Bay Area. The Cartel's rhythm section -- the nerve center of the band -- comprises Andres's Trio Latino. The smaller ensemble has taken on a life of its own, one which Andres has now documented with the recording of Mayan Suite. 

"Covid-19 and the resulting Shelter in Place order has made life very difficult for everyone," says Andres. "Many musicians, myself included, feel a profound sadness during this time, because we are deprived of our most cherished activity -- performing for an audience. Thankfully we can still connect with our instrument alone, in study and practice, which keeps the spirits up, but there is no substitute for performing. Because of this, Trio Latino is looking to do a live online performance sometime soon. We are working out the details now to be able to provide the best presentation possible."   

New Music From Tony Kofi, Spontaneous Groovin' Combustion, Mark Soskin

Tony Kofi - Another Kind Of Soul: A Portrait Of Cannonball Adderley

A very cool tribute to the legendary Cannonball Adderley – but one that has a spirit that's nicely that of its leader, alto saxophonist Tony Kofi! Tony's got a tone that's different than Cannon – maybe a bit sharper, with this pinched, edgey quality that's really great – and which opens up the familiar tunes in a great way, and sounds especially nice on two of the album's originals! The group also features Andy Davies on trumpet, Alex Webb on piano, Andrew Cleyndert on bass, and Alfonso Vitale on drums – a group who know all the energy an Adderley group performance requires, while also letting their own souls and spirits take new directions too. Titles include "Work Song", "Sack O Woe", "Things Are Getting Better", "Another Kind Of Soul", and the originals "A Portrait Of Cannonball" and "Operation Breadbasket". ~ Dusty Groove

Spontaneous Groovin' Combustion - Jackie's New Car

Having experienced success as an NYC rocker, composer, producer and woodwind performer Warren Keller now channels his most vibrant, grooving influences into his role as leader of the perfectly named fiery, urban jazz fusion ensemble Spontaneous Groovin’ Combustion. Their latest single “Jackie’s New Car” simmers over a mid-tempo funk swing vibe with a dynamic and infectious melody carried by the razzle-dazzle of “The Session Horns,” retro keyboards, jangly guitars and Keller’s punchy, improvisation-rich sax solo. This snazzy, infectious track will be featured on the group’s upcoming self-titled EP, which includes sampled Jeff Lorber as well as support from Third Richardson, Alex Al, and Dwight Sills. ~ smoothjazz.com 

Mark Soskin - Everything Old Is New Again

A beautiful set of mostly original music from pianist Mark Soskin, and a set that draws equal strengths from the soprano sax and bass clarinet of Billy Drewes – who plays with a great style that mixes lyrical modes with more of an edge – a mode that's a really wonderful complement to Soskin's piano! There's a slow-building sense of growth to most tunes – tracks that have a nice way of building up, finding their sound, then really flowering once the time is right – as the Soskin/Drewes pairing is given just the right sort of rhythmic pulse from Jay Anderson on bass and Matt Wilson on drums. Titles include the originals "Chutes & Ladders", "Tribute", "Once More", "Elvin's Tune", "Stretching", and "Hymn For Her" – plus versions of "Pretending To Care", "Happy House", and "Guinnevere". ~ Dusty Groove

New Music From My Luv Notes, Prostuda One / Graham Mushnik

My Luv Notes – You Don’t Own Me

My Luv Notes’ latest single is “You Don’t Own Me,” a sultry, soulful and hypnotic song that taps into the subtle dangers inherent in getting too emotionally entangled with the people you’re willing to help. It’s a warning to the person abusing his/her privilege to “Enjoy me when you have me/Cuz the meter’s runnin’ down”, in the second verse, and true to the spirituality that runs through much of the artist’s work, she addresses the deeper reality that the person’s true help and support will come from above. She sings in the bridge, “Hands together now/You’re gonna’ find your way/Look up high while I, while I walk away.” The track is the first official release from My Luv Notes’ upcoming full-length album, also titled You Don’t Own Me. The album will be the follow-up to the well-received 2019 release Day Late

Prostuda One - Gone

The new downtempo artist collective known as Prostuda One has unveiled the brand-new full-length effort that provides listeners with some of the best chill, downtempo jams to come around in ages. An extremely hard-working collaborative, Prostuda One proves their phenomenal artistry on this prolific 14 track debut that is sure to blow more than a few minds. Prostuda One may in fact be the new kings and queens of the downtempo scene. Many in-the-know DJs who have heard advance copies of the disc heartily agree. Presented here is the first EP from the collective, "Gone," which includes bonus instrumental and acappella mixes
.

Graham Mushnik - Peeping Through The Porthole

Loads of sweet little instrumentals from Graham Mushnik – most of which feature his own organ in the lead, tippling nicely over rhythms that run from bossa, to jazz funk, to soundtrack-styled modes – often peppered with nice touches on sax and flute! The record's maybe a nice throwback to that great generation of new keyboard creations from 20 years back – the world of Money Mark and others – and Mushnik works here on one side as a solo artist, with just a few guests – and on another with his group Martini – although the whole thing is pretty unified overall. Titles include "The Lost Gallion", "Interlude", "Flow Up Flow Down", "Swordfish Bossa", "Last Cup Apocalypse", "Marvin's Club", and "Shinkansen Lullaby". ~ Dusty Groove

Vibration Black Finger - Can You See What I'm Trying To Say | New album on Jazzman Records

Once more his inspiration is drawn from the obscure spiritual jazz collectives of the 1970s where he employs a vast array of like-minded collaborators to create a listening experience infused with an ever-present undercurrent of personal expression and cultural empowerment that’s as enriched with ideas as it is progressive in its form.

Having earned his chops as founding member of the Brand New Heavies, Campag Velocet and Heliocentric World, Lascelle’s latest album ‘Can You See What I’m Trying to Say’ bursts with energy and vivid contrasts, flowing effortlessly between beat-laden grooves, oscillating improvisations, soulful recitations, audio verité and moody atmospherics. The album drops like a post-hip-hop reimagining of foundational genres, with a prayer to the future.

’Can You See What I’m Trying to Say’ is a quote from Marion Brown, the great alto saxophonist’ explains Gordon. ‘The album was put together over the last three years, not in the conventional way of going into the recording studio with musicians, but starting from ideas I had on various formats (cassettes, mini disc, DATs & reel to reel). I also used field recordings. I did a lot of home recording with long time musical friends Ben Cowen & Diana Gutkind, some of them going back 20 years. The voices of my nieces (heard on Law of the Universe) were recorded 25 years ago. ‘Only in a Dream’ and ‘Empty Streets’ are the only songs that were recorded live in the studio.’

‘I was blown away by the New Life Trio ‘Empty Streets’ (from 1978) and was fascinated by the vocals’ continues Lascelles. ‘I always thought it would be great to cover this tune’. Such is the power of this song, it’s used to open the album, with vocalist Ebony Rose turning in a thoroughly haunting vocal performance. While not a concept album as such, Lascelles has nonetheless conceived and presented Can You See What I’m Trying to Say to be heard as a complete listening experience, with each track blending into the next, resulting in a seamless expression of music.

Following ‘Empty Streets’, some instrumental interludes segue into a dimensional drift of beats, space synths, horns and electronics; there’s a vocal reprise of ‘Acting For Liberation’, sung with gusto by Maggie Nichols, and then there’s the album’s momentous finale, ‘Only In A Dream’, which takes off as an ominous drone before a delicious bassline from the late Ken Kambayashi transforms it into an intense, soaring epic which finally descends onto another world.

In a career spanning several decades, Lascelle Gordon remains an omnivorous musical force, whether as DJ, collaborator or radio broadcaster. As amply demonstrated on Can You See What I’m Trying to Say, he refuses to rest on his laurels and continues to impress with music that is as rich, vital and contemporary as anything he’s done before, covering an incredible amount of musical ground in the process.

‘As always I’ve made a conscious move towards making deep, heavy music’ he says, ‘Music without meaning seems pointless.’

CHRIS 'BIG DOG' DAVIS - FOCUS w/Maysa, Dave Koz, Kim Waters, Gerald Albright, Rick Braun, Nick Colionne, Bluey & Others

Few artists are equally captivating behind the scenes and on the stage. It requires a certain amount of vision, keen musicianship and discipline. On Focus, all of these skills coalesce to create a thrilling 11– track experience that demonstrates the type of magic that multi Grammy nominated keyboardist and producer Chris “Big Dog” Davis’ has brought to other artists as a producer. His Midas touch has added finesse to endeavors by Brian McKnight, George Clinton, Will Downing, Syleena Johnson, Chanté Moore, Maysa, and numerous others. 

As he takes center stage for the first time on recording, his wizardry blesses an entire album of inspirational and moving originals. “This experience has really been exciting and rewarding. My hope is that people will enjoy coming into my musical world and getting a deeper glimpse into who I am and all of the music that has influenced me from Jazz, Funk Gospel and Pop,” says Davis, who has produced 17 #1 hits on the Contemporary Jazz charts. Danny Weiss, VP of Jazz A&R states, “Chris has been our go-to producer for everyone from Kim Burrell to Maysa to Norman Brown, just to name a few. We're thrilled to be releasing his first solo album, so that the world can witness the full expression of his artistic talent.”M“The idea behind Focus was to create music with some of my favorite people. It also served as a reminder to keep your eyes on a prize and to let our dreams become our reality,” shares the handsome and amiable 6’3” bodybuilder who spent a stint in the Marine Corps. 

The Waterbury, CT native drew from diverse influences like Miles Davis, Chaka Khan and George Duke and even his own Zen rooted philosophy to living life.  Focus joins Davis with a cadre of the best working artists in Contemporary Jazz including Kim Waters, Gerald Albright, Rick Braun, Dave Koz, Maysa, Bluey and Nick Colionne. “It is so humbling to have all of these artists join me on this project. Every single one of them came bearing gifts that make this album so special,” shares the keyboardist.

New Music From David Clayton-Thomas, Reza Khan & David Rose

David Clayton-Thomas - A Blues For The New World

Forget all your preconceived notions about the blues. This album redefines the art form.The music spans a wide range of styles, from rock to reggae to big band jazz, from gospel choir to acapella group. The lyrics are topical, satirical, with a wicked sense of humour and occasionally so deeply personal that it hurts. Includes: A Blues For The New World; Second Chance; Calico Girl; Common Ground; It's All So L A; Politics; Sounds So Sweet; Holy Moses; Frank And Margie; It Ain't Free; What If I Told You; The Sky's The Limit; and The Lights On Broadway.

Reza Khan - Next Train Home

A fascinating, diverse musical citizen of the world, guitarist/composer Reza Khan brings a wealth of progressive jazz and global fusion influences and sensibilities to NEXT TRAIN HOME. Featuring everything from dreamy funk and percussive, multi-cultural exchanges to fiery electric jazz fusion, the festive, extraordinarily intricate album was composed primarily in hotel rooms throughout Africa, where Khan traveled as part of his amazing “day job” as program manager for the United Nations. Khan’s essential tracks featuring Pat Metheny’s longtime bassist Mark Egan are enhanced by the colorful sound design of Philippe Saisse, along with dynamic contributions by Andy Snitzer, Jeff Kashiwa and Nils. ~ smoothjazz.com

David Rose – The New York Session

Together with a band consisting of a selection of the best New York jazz musicians, swing crooner David Rose presents his new album The New York Session. The album was recorded in New York City under the musical direction of Lee Musiker (musical director, arranger and pianist of Tony Bennett) who has written new arrangements especially for David Rose. Jazz guitar legend Bucky Pizzarelli features as a special guest, with the band completed by Dan Levinson (woodwinds), Tal Ronen (bass) and Mark McLean (drums). The album was recorded live in New York in only three studio days, avoiding any overdubbing, all in the tradition of the classical jazz vocal albums of the 1950s and 1960s. Includes: Manhattan; I Can See You; I Need No Atmosphere; Stay With Me; Rose Of Washington Square; In The Middle Of A Kiss; You Tell Yourself; I'll Close My Eyes; Love; Lonely Town; and Someday I'll Find You.

New Music From Blicher Hemmer Gadd, Whit Dickey & Pylkkanen

Blicher Hemmer Gadd - Omara

The remastered Audiophile Version of 'Omara', the second album from soul jazz trio Blicher Hemmer Gadd, featuring legendary drummer Steve Gadd. "A straight to the point good-time set of soul/jazz sparked with shades of R&B and blues that leaves the crowd whooping for more" Modern Drummer Magazine. A chance encounter and a shared love of a special kind of music led Steve Gadd, known for his collaborations with Paul Simon, Steely Dan, Eric Clapton and Chick Corea amongst others, to join forces with saxophonist Michael Blicher and Hammond organ player Dan Hemmer in 2014. The band has toured throughout Europe and Scandinavia and 'Omara' was recorded live in Germany, England and Denmark during their 2016 tour. The recordings captured the amazing energy from four exceptional late-night shows at some of Europe's most intimate jazz clubs and Blicher, Hemmer and Gadd swing superbly within the relaxed grooves of this brilliant, enthusiastically received, live set.The album offers a unique experience to hear one of the world's most innovative and highly regarded drummers display his talent, playing a type of music he is very passionate about - soul jazz in an organ trio setting. Of the albums nine tracks, the emphasis is on original music by Michael Blicher, supplemented by the blues classic "My Babe" and the spiritual "Elijah Rock".

Whit Dickey - Morph

Drummer Whit Dickey in two really great settings – both of them a very fresh reminder of his mighty talents on the kit! CD1 features Whit working with Matthew Shipp on piano – in these beautifully moody, often spacious duets that really match some of Dickey's subtle but resonant work on the drums with Shipp's well-punctuated work on piano – sometimes building up boldly, sometimes a much more personal, almost contemplative exploration of space! CD2 features trumpeter Nate Wooley joining the pair – and from the very first note, you can really feel a different sort of equilibrium – as Nate's horn has a way of cracking open the energy that the duo had on the previous session, rally creating a new sort of energy – in ways that are maybe a perfect illustration of the way that free improvisation can be such a special, situational form of art. Titles include "Blue Threads", "Reckoning", "Dice", "Helix", "Steps", "Noir 1", "Take The Wild Train", "Pulse Morph", and "Space Trance". ~ Dusty Groove

Pylkkanen – Nu Bottega

Pylkkanen's debut on Challenge Records! Born in 1964, saxophonist and composer Pekka Pylkkänen has been recognized as one of the stronger jazz artists and saxophonists in Europe. He has performed around the globe and has been very successful not only in Europe, but also in Asia and South America, for example. He has collaborated with numerous prestigious artists in many countries, and continues to work as a soloist/leader, recording artist and educator all over the world. On Nu Bottega: "The general idea is about the Italian lifestyle and the beauty that one can find there not easy to describe in a few words, but like finding the most beautiful things behind a slightly trashed or 'b-flat' areas/places/details. 'Nu Bottega' just means 'new restaurant' but having this vibe of a shared kitchen, cooking with friends, sharing the bread and so on. Cooking (mostly Italian nowadays) is one of my passions, and sharing that with my friends is one of my greatest joys." Artists: Pekka Pylkkanen - Saxophone Roberto Tarenzi - Piano Francesco Puglisi - Bass Marco Valeri - Drums Fabrizio Bosso – Trumpet

JNEIRO JAREL - "BANANA PEEL (FT. MASAUKO CHIPEMBERE)"

In 2018 Far Out Recordings signed a record deal with Brooklyn born, nomadic producer Jneiro Jarel. Having just put the finishing touches to the recordings, Jarel suffered an ischemic stroke while living and working in Costa Rica and his wife Indigo was forced to set up a crowd fund to cover special medical transport back to the states to receive treatment. 

The release was put on hold, but thanks to the generosity of friends and fans around the world, Jarel was able to get the care he needed and is now on the long road to recovery. We’re overjoyed to finally announce Jneiro Jarel’s new single "Banana Peel (Cáscara de plátano) featuring Masauko Chipembere" is now out on all digital platforms.

Throughout a career that has spanned over twenty years and seen collaborations with MF DOOM, Thom Yorke, Damon Albarn, BadBadNotGood, Portishead’s Beth Gibbons, Kimbra and Khujo Goodie (Dungeon Family), Jneiro Jarel’s consistently distinctive, forward thinking productions, as well as his love for the music of Brazil, made his partnership with Far Out a perfect fit.

Recorded between New York, New Orleans, Miami and Costa Rica, Jarel's forthcoming album After A Thousand Years features legendary multi-instrumentalist Bill Summers, famed for his work with Herbie Hancock, Quincy Jones and Eddie Henderson. The album also features Malawian-American guitarist Masauko Chipembere who has worked with the likes of RZA from Wu-Tang Clan and Ladybug Mecca from Digable Planets.

On lead single “Banana Peel”, Jarel’s outernational perspective makes for a track that is almost impossible to place geographically: you can hear the swing of Jarel’s native New Orleans jazz, the vibrance of Costa Rican rainforests as well as the influence of Jarel’s vast collection of Brazilian records.

“Banana Peel” releases as a digital digital single ahead of Jneiro Jarel’s forthcoming album After A Thousand Years, coming later this year.

New Music From Frostina Dixon, Asher Gamedze, Totó la Momposina

Fostina Dixon - Vertical Alignment

She's called the The Saxophone Queen because she IS! Fostina Dixon delivers hard-hitting, deeply grooving, slickly and soulfully produced urban jazz on her latest album VERTICAL ALIGNMENT. The multi-talented artist - whose decades long resume includes Abbey Lincoln, Roy Ayers, as well as Prince and Marvin Gaye, whom she toured with for four years she weaves her emotional, gospel inflected magic on soprano, alto and baritone (not to mention flute and clarinet) with equal sparkle and funk. New to Smooth Jazz, this bright star is already blazing up format airplay charts with help from fellow musical vets and producers, bassist Al Turner and multi-instrumentalist Ray Chew. Fostina is a one-of-a-kind talent... we're lucky to have her in our mix! ~ smoothjazz.com

Asher Gamedze – Dialectic Soul

This is Jazz at its most spiritual, most progressive and most appealing form. As Asher himself says: "Dialectic Soul is about motion and a refusal to remain static or stay still. It’s the commitment to be continually moving". Recorded live over two days at the Sound and Motion Studios in Cape Town with renowned musicians (Thembinkosi Mavimbela (bass), Buddy Wells (tenor sax), Robin Fassie-Kock (trumpet) Nono Nkoane (voc)), 'Dialectic Soul' is breathtaking in its musical vitality and expression of soul seeking truth. By incorporating the concept of the Total Art for this project, it fits perfectly within On The Corner's aesthetic of music, art and vision for creative innovation. Asher continues: "My composition 'state of emergence' introduces the themes that constitute the album; free drums representing autonomous African motion, the saxophone reflecting deeply and honestly on the violence of colonialism. The teachings of Coltrane, Biko, Makeba, Malcom and others inspire the music's positive manifestation of resistance." "Fundamentally, it is about the reclamation of the historical imperative. It is about the dialect of the soul and the spirit while it moves through history. The soul is dialectic. Motion is imperative. We keep moving."

Totó la Momposina - Tanguita

A magnificent singer, Totó La Momposina has earned respect and admiration all over the world for the power and spontaneity of her performance. Drawing on the music and dance of the Colombian Caribbean, her work is informed and inspired by a rich cultural mix that combines elements from African, Native Indian and Spanish traditions.

Black, Brown and Beige Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra & Wynton Marsalis

Blue Engine Records, Jazz at Lincoln Center’s in-house recording label, has released a present-day recording of Duke Ellington’s groundbreaking masterpiece Black, Brown and Beige by the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis. Captured during a live, Rose Theater performance in 2018, Black, Brown and Beige is Wynton Marsalis’s first recording of the work and Blue Engine’s first release dedicated entirely to Ellington.

Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Managing and Artistic Director Wynton Marsalis explains, “Black, Brown and Beige sits alone in the history of jazz. It covers a mosaic of not just Afro-American but of American styles of music.” The expert musicians of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis, alongside special guests Brianna Thomas (vocals) and Eli Bishop (violin), are perfectly equipped to tackle its stirring stylistic breadth. The Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra’s spirited take on Ellington’s epic work pays tribute to some of the maestro’s most personal work while adding another important chapter to its enduring legacy.

Since its 1943 debut at Carnegie Hall, the piece—a sprawling survey of African American history—has been heralded as one of the most significant compositions in American orchestral music. Now, the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis is releasing a definitive, present-day recording of Black, Brown and Beige that conveys all the nuances and emotion of Ellington’s grandest work.

New Music From Malia, Ben Marley Quartet & Nick Colionne

Malia – The Garden Of Eve

After releasing spine-tinglingly striking single "Hope" just before Christmas, Malawi-born, London-based jazz singer Malia welcomes the new decade with 'The Garden of Eve', an album dedicated to the blues and its stories. It has been a long time since a contemporary artist has made such a beautiful homage to the blues, a style that in the year 2020 deserves to have a bit of its dust brushed off. "Blues has always been dear to my heart: it's a cathartic experience, precious and profound, whether it's playing it or listen to it on the radio. When I first heard Billie Holiday sing 'Blue Moon', I could feel it with every cell of my body. She had such a powerful effect on me. Sentimental blues, originating from tragic situations, sometimes even reflecting my own experiences... No matter how bad family, friends, politics, lovers, governments or society might be, they can never destroy the forces for good in this world. And as time passes by, I more and more find the truth that is rooted in my soul. And I finally feel mature enough to understand this wonderful musical tradition - because blues means life." And if blues means life, Malia is the energy that allows the blues to have a soul, a voice. Characterized by her unique timbre - that doesn't need any further explaining - Malia gives us a thrill throughout the 12 tracks of this album, that has everything to become a classic.

Ben Markley Quartet – Slow Play

For Ben Markley's fourth recording, the fleet pianist/composer teams with New York tenor saxophone great Joel Frahm for a dynamic set of modern jazz originals. Though written specifically with the band of Frahm, drummer Jim White, and bassist Marty Kenny in mind, Markley continually finds inspiration from significant influences in his musical life, most notably Cedar Walton, Chick Corea and Bill Evans. With engaging and elevating support from Kenney and White, Markley and Frahm pop on the boogaloo "'Mon Back," strike a Jazz Messengers-esque pose on the grooving "Return of Catboy," and strut on the half-time funk of the title tune. "Frahm's playing bubbles over with ear-catching inventiveness and a robust, positive feeling." Ottawa Citizen.

Nick Colionne – Finger Painting

Having spent the last two decades painting vivid musical pictures with his signature guitar stylings, guitarist Nick Colionne releases his 11th studio recording appropriately entitled 'Finger Painting', a collection of sonic art painted by the fingers of the master guitarist who has scored 11 number one Billboard singles out of his last 12. Colionne's knack of connecting with not only his rabid fan base but with a compelling melody and hook are in great evidence here with this collection of musical art that explores the corners of the genre with great vibrancy and color. Collectors of memorable pieces of musical art will find much to like here with a pallet of moods and feelings emanating from his gifted fingers to your anxious ears.

Italian Jazz Guitarist Rocco Zifarelli Releases New Album “Music Unites”

“Music Unites” is the new CD by Italian guitarist Rocco Zifarelli, for more than 20 years alongside the famous movie music composer Ennio Morricone with whom he has recorded many award winning scores (Academy Award, Golden Globe, Bafta etc) and performed in many tours around the world. Published 20 years after the acclaimed “Lyndon” (Via VenetoJazz-Universal) this CD continues on the same musical concept, that concerns instrumental electric jazz and jazz-rock in general, with 10 tracks describing a series of experiences of musical life in Rome, New York and especially in Paris.

For “Music Unites” Rocco brought together a number of great musicians with whom he collaborated in the last years, primarily Paco Sery (Ivory Coast) on drums and Linley Marthe (Mauritius Island) on bass, the rhythm section of Joe Zawinul Syndicate, then italian bass stars Dario Deidda and Pippo Matino, Russian trumpeter Alex Sipiagin and two DJ’s and sound designers Freddy Jay (Paris) and Yassin Africancuts (Brussels), and many others. A lot of musical variety, original and non-original compositions, including two revisited Morricone's themes “The Untouchables” and “Le clan des siciliens,” in a dynamic succession of electric and acoustic moods combined with samples and electronic loop, well conducted by Rocco's eclectic guitar. 

A CD that put together people, cultures, sounds, musical life and experiences…because “Music Unites”! Says Rocco, “This record is the story of my musical and private life, through the ten tracks, like the chapters of an autobiographical book. It’s also a journey, a long journey in all senses, was conceived from the point of view of the compositional ideas many years ago, shortly after the release of my first and only album 'Lyndon' but had a very long gestation, due to many factors both external and personal, changes of human and artistic life mainly influenced by the massive events that have affected the whole world in the last twenty years. During this time I traveled a lot, for tours and concerts, and lived in some world great musical cities. Expecially my three years in Paris, after joining the Defunkt, where I met many African artists who were able to express depths of their native cultures. Even now Paris absorbs these important influences and, in musical terms, trains generations of extraordinary esteemed all over the world. All that already happened in New York since forever, but not with African born artists, really hard to arrive in the US… it is not a coincidence that Joe Zawinul has taken so many musicians of the last Syndicate in Paris, even if they were not originally from France.”

Rocco Zifarelli's “Music Unites” showcases the energy and power of Rock, the expressiveness of Blues, the improvisation, the harmonies and the interplay of the Jazz of Miles and Coltrane, the groove of Funk and Black Music, the timbres and the colors of Mediterranean acoustic music and the synthesis of Electronic music.

In the meantime, thanks also to his friend Marco Massimi, he managed to create Rocco's recording studio in Rome, the “ZETA STUDIO,” where “Music Unites” was almost entirely recorded; it is Rocco's “refuge,” a kind of laboratory where he can experiment with music ideas with his friends, and a comfortable place to record guitar tracks for various external works. The need to manage, protect and produce the best ideas has led Rocco to develop the concept of his own music production company, “ZETA STUDIO PRODUCTIONS,” which will report to some divisions such as the record label “ZETA RECORDS,” of which this CD is the first product, publisher with which his guitar methods and other types of productions will come out. 

Along with promoting his new album, Rocco is busy with many other musical related activities. Says Rocco, “After 22 years of recording and touring with Maestro Ennio Morricone, he has retired some months ago, we’re still doing some concerts and recording sessions, but now I’m totally involved in my projects and teaching. I teach Pop-Rock and Jazz Guitar at the State Conservatories of Milano and Cuneo, but it allows me to have plenty of time to dedicate to my artistic activity, to my recording studio and  label, lots of live concerts with different bands, mostly electric and acoustic jazz, and many recording sessions in different styles. I'm preparing a new album, mostly swingin' acoustic jazz, that's still my main source of inspiration and study, and not so elaborate as 'Music Unites.' I've just finished a collaboration with the UK magazine 'Guitar Techniques,' with a series of six video-workshops issued now, in which I've improvised some solos on backing tracks they provided to me, and then I explain my style and my phrasing ideas for each song.”

Soul-jazz guitarist Gregory Goodloe releases “Cool Like That” featuring Bob Baldwin

When R&B/jazz guitarist Gregory Goodloe dropped his new single, “Cool Like That,” at the beginning of March before the novel coronavirus outbreak hit the US with a vengeance, it was the No. 1 most added single on the Billboard airplay chart in its debut week and earned the most new spins in its second week. The song that he wrote with and features urban-jazz icon Bob Baldwin has taken on quite a different spin in the face of the health and economic crisis that have put lives, finances, and the future in peril. The track that was conceived to recreate the classic cool contemporary jazz sound and will serve as the title cut of his forthcoming album has become somewhat of an affirmation to Goodloe to stay calm and be fluid during this period of uncertainty.

“What’s on my mind is the unsureness of life. It’s very fragile. My mother, who is in her 80s, I worry about keeping her safe. My main concern right now is to be able to continue taking care of my mom,” said the Denver-based Goodloe who is doing his best to maintain his even-keeled cool despite so many unanswered questions about what’s ahead for musicians and the music industry.

“Like every other musician right now, we’re going through a transition. We don’t know what’s going to be at the end of the rainbow. We don’t know if everything is going to be more condensed. Is it the end of concerts? Is it the end of festivals? Is everything going to be digital now? Are we just going to be in-house songwriters? That’s the kind of thing that’s going through my mind. This time is about being able to work through that; to have the change, but not let it defeat me. To move like water into the flow of whatever change has to happen in order to continue to create music.”   

“Cool Like That” is Goodloe’s first single since last June when he landed his first Billboard No. 1 single, “Stylin’,” which also topped the Mediabase and Smooth Jazz Top 20 charts. With Baldwin producing and crafting the lion’s share of the new single’s production as well as contributing shimmering keyboard flourishes, Goodloe’s crisp electric guitar recalls two of the legendary guitarists who inspired the track’s conception: George Benson and Wes Montgomery.

“When the idea came for ‘Cool Like That,’ I sought out the writing expertise of Bob Baldwin because he’s almost like a pure jazz enthusiast. I wanted to use his expertise to create that kind of vibe of when jazz was cool. I went through an era of listening to people like Herbie Hancock and wanting to be a musician. We thought it would be cool to be a jazz musician. That era includes your Grover Washington Jr.’s, Wes Montgomery and George Benson when he first came out. It was an exciting time - when classic jazz was the poster of what cool really was. So, I wanted my song to be cool like that, like that whole era. I wanted to reproduce that vibe,” said Goodloe.

Goodloe has been working towards a summer release for the “Cool Like That” album, but the stay-at-home mandate may lead to a delay. For now, he prefers to keep his cards close to his chest when it comes to the identities of the prominent hitmakers with whom he has been writing and recording for the collection. Goodloe admits to struggling to focus on songwriting since the outbreak. 

“Some of the songs were written before the virus and I have yet to pen anything of any significance since  the virus hit and the economic downfall. It’s kind of a solemn time and people are reflecting. You have time to create and hone your craft because a lot of things are shutdown.”

At the suggestion of a fan, Goodloe has spent the last few Saturday nights in his home studio playing live and connecting with fans on Facebook Live. He is going to continue what he has now titled “Saturday Night Hang” (7pm Mountain Time), which he sees as an offering to help people get through the crisis. 

“The idea is to interact and try to ease people’s minds during this pandemic because a lot of people are panicking. They are frustrated and some are freaking out. The quarantine itself, some people don’t know how to handle it. So, I want to provide an hour escape. I kind of mix it up. Because some of my followers are Christian, I may open with a couple of Christian songs and read a bible passage. After that, I try to play songs that people recognize and they can sing to. I play familiar tunes and throw in some of my own music.”
       
Goodloe debuted as a solo artist in 2010 and has performed with an array of R&B, jazz and gospel greats including Howard Hewett, Surface, Tank, Ben Tankard, Shirley Caesar, John P. Key, The Rance Allen Group and Angela Spivey, and opened for Dave Koz, Brian Culbertson and Norman Brown. He also played one gig with award-winning blues artist Sista Monica Parker, an experience that perhaps answers the question about whether this crisis will diminish the joyous spirit that permeates his guitar play and songwriting as he works towards completing the “Cool Like That” album.

“I remember playing for Sista Monica and she only hired me one time because she said my blues is like happy blues. I don’t know if I would be able to write a song about the unhappy mood of current times because I don’t know if that part of me will come out. I’d probably just end up playing happy blues.”

http://gregorygoodloe.com