Gordon Lee | "How Can It Be?"

Deep catharsis is the order of the day on How Can It Be?, the seventh album by pianist and composer Gordon Lee, set to drop June 16 on PJCE Records. Written during the COVID-19 pandemic, the album’s nine originals—performed by the Portland, Oregon-based Lee and his quartet with tenor saxophonist Renato Caranto, bassist Dennis Caiazza, and drummer Gary Hobbs—reflect the leader’s urgent need to express powerful emotions at a time when musical performance was limited at best.

In addition to inspiring this rich set of compositions, those challenging days were also the direct catalyst for the quartet’s formation. Lee had little to do but write and practice until his wife convinced him to turn that work into performances on the front porch of their home. Those homespun concerts for the neighbors became “my antidote, my personal way of fighting back against not just the virus but the fear,” he recalls. “It felt like something positive I could do.” They began as duos with Caranto, then evolved into quartets with Caiazza and the late drummer Carlton Jackson (to whom How Can It Be? is dedicated). Hobbs is newly recruited for the album.

The emotions Lee channeled into his music at that time naturally included some dark and somber tones, as can be heard on the opening title track and the harrowing “Angry Mother Nature.” Yet that’s only a thin slice of the pie. The album also features quirky and amiable burlesque (“Shaky Assets”), offbeat, sardonic humor (“A Robin Weeps,” “Bozo Sulks on the Golf Course”), and small moments of triumph (“’Deed I Did It”). It’s a rich collection of material that reminds us of the full range of humanity that underscores even our bleakest experiences.

At a tight 48 minutes, How Can It Be? is also a testimony to the discipline and mastery of Caranto, Caiazza, and Hobbs as well as Lee. Basing their performances here on those highly restricted days of COVID, they demonstrate their ability to hit the bandstand and speak their pieces with economy and precision, but no less emotional weight or expression. In that sense, the album is a distillation of what Lee describes as the musician’s mission “to play from the inside of your soul.”

Gordon Lee was born April 26, 1953 in New York City. At 12 years old, he found himself behind the drum kit of a junior high school garage-rock band. By 14 he had transferred over to the piano, on which he obtained his first paying gig at a school dance. The bug had well and truly bitten him, and Gordon matriculated a few years later at Indiana University to study with the legendary jazz educator David Baker.

It was also at IU that he crossed paths with trumpeter and Portlander Richard Burdell, who convinced Lee that the Pacific Northwest metropolis was a great place for a working musician. After earning his BM in 1976, Lee made the move to the West Coast and found that Burdell had been right. Though he would return for a few years to New York to live and work, Lee soon enough made his way back to Portland, where he’s remained for nearly 40 years since.

Lee established himself as an educator, teaching jazz studies at Western Oregon University and Reed College, among others, while also finding time to earn a master’s degree from Portland State University in 1999. In addition, he built a career as a bandleader, beginning in 1990 with his debut album Gordon Bleu. Five more albums followed, with ensembles ranging from the big band of 2004’s Flying Dream to the trio of 2010’s This Path, before the release of How Can It Be?

How Can It Be? isn’t his only takeaway from the pandemic. Hundreds of hours with his Baldwin Grand also resulted in his first solo piano album, The Remainder (PJCE Records), “which was a product of the same gestation.” With an unprecedented expanse of free time on his hands, Lee explains, “I ended up practicing a lot, and practicing always leads to composing for me.”

Gordon Lee will be performing CD release shows at The 1905, Portland, on Sunday, 7/2, and at Christo’s, Salem, OR, on Thursday, 7/13.

The Sofia Goodman Group | "Secrets of the Shore

Drummer Sofia Goodman pursues an increasingly sophisticated and multidimensional vision with the July 14 release of Secrets of the Shore on Joyous Records. The Nashville-based Goodman’s sophomore album with her eponymous Group (trumpeter Matt White, trombonist Roy Agee, saxophonists Joel Frahm and Dan Hitchcock, clarinetist Max Dvorin, keyboardist Alex Murphy, guitarist Rheal Janelle, bassist Leland Nelson and percussionist Carlos Duran) finds her changing direction from the jazz-funk fusion of her debut album—though still retaining aspects of that style—and exploring thoughtful and often tender post-bop.

That exploration encompasses a diversity of styles, grooves, emotions, and compositional and improvisational shapes across the album’s ten original tunes. But it also includes a remarkable, expansive new approach to colors and textural possibilities, not least on Goodman’s drum kit. It’s a tremendous leap forward from her 2018 debut, Myriad of Flowers.

“My first album was such a learning experience,” Goodman says. “This time I was much more prepared in terms of what I should do and how my music should be. As I worked on Secrets of the Shore, I cared about how I felt as it was happening.”

A concept album about water and its many guises, Secrets of the Shore suitably washes over the listener in waves that are alternately placid (“Siren Song”), enigmatic (“Alberto’s Dreamland”), foreboding (“Buried Treasures”), and tempestuous (“In Barbara’s Mist”)—sometimes in sudden and violent shifts (the complex closing track “Angel”). It also boasts watery sonic details, such the gentle ripples of piano and cymbal on “Shadows on the Sand” and the crystalline droplets of saxophone and Fender Rhodes on “Skipping Stones.”

Importantly, these offerings of detail and mood depend on heavy lifting from the entire Sofia Goodman Group. Each element, from Nelson’s slippery electric bass, to White and Agee’s declaratory brasses, to Frahm and Hitchcock’s sinewy (and sinuous) sax lines, has a vital contribution to realizing Goodman’s music. Still, it’s never hard to detect the leader’s hand, be it her smart writing or her versatile drumming, ultimately guiding Secrets of the Shore.

Sofia Goodman was born in 1987 in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where she was adopted as an infant. She began taking piano lessons in elementary school, but an encounter with a young friend’s drum kit reoriented her musical interests. Initially that meant blues, rock, and punk, reflecting a teenage defiance that she took with her to Berklee College of Music in Boston. While still in high school, Sofia attended a summer workshop at Berklee taught by Esperanza Spalding, then one of the youngest teachers ever to work at the school. Spalding’s encouragement inspired Sofia to take private lessons with Berklee faculty member Jackie Santos, and to return to Berklee for further studies.

After a somewhat turbulent period of relocation and readjustment, however, she found solace in exploring singing and composing at the piano. Time spent outside of the practice rooms at Berklee was typically spent at Wally’s Café, the beloved South Boston jazz club that is a proving ground for the city’s music students.

Not long after graduating from Berklee with a degree in Drum Set Performance, Goodman’s Boston apartment was decimated by fire. Fate, and some friends, drew her to Nashville, Tennessee, the country music mecca that also nourishes a rich jazz scene. What Goodman thought was a short-term summer residence developed into more than a decade of enthusiastic embrace of, and by, the community of artists that make up the aptly styled Music City.

Goodman plied her skills with musicians of all stripes, at the same time studying composition for a master’s degree from Belmont University. It was only a short time before she was ready to form her own band. Those early efforts would evolve into what is now The Sofia Goodman Group, building a following throughout the South and into the Midwest. Her first album, 2018’s Myriad of Flowers, received a nomination for Best Jazz Album from the Nashville Industry Music Awards. Secrets of the Shore is the Goodman Group’s follow-up to that acclaimed debut.

“Goodman’s work strives for lofty goals, takes big musical risks and aspires for the freedom to manifest itself fully,” wrote Sean L. Maloney last year in the Nashville Scene. “It is truly progressive and fundamentally jazz—and a reason to be excited about the continuing evolution of jazz in Music City."

Upcoming shows by The Sofia Goodman Group include: Fri 6/23 Taggart Amphitheater, Indianapolis (7:30-9pm); Sat 6/24 Elkhart (IN) Jazz Festival (3-4:15pm); Fri 7/14 Nashville Jazz Workshop (7:30-9pm); Thurs 7/20 Dogwood Amphitheater, Cookeville, TN (7:30-9pm); Wed 7/26 Rudy’s Jazz Room, Nashville (6-8:15pm); and Mon 8/7 Analog, Nashville. 

Mekiel Reuben | "Just Like The Radio"

Not that long ago, listening to music on the radio provided a carefree escape, sparked imagination, created excitement, adventure and discovery, and at times, was as comforting as an old friend. R&B-jazz saxophonist Mekiel Reuben came of age during that era and his new album, “Just Like The Radio,” preserves his memories of listening to the radio from childhood to adulthood, sharing his experiences via twelve new songs that he wrote with his coproducer David Vasquez. The saxman’s ninth album releases July 21 on MekMuse Records.

While growing up in Chicago, Reuben listened to a lot of funk, jazz and soul music on the radio, and the songs on “Just Like The Radio” recall and celebrate many of the artists who influence his sound – from his 1994 debut album, “Miles Away,” titled for Miles Davis, to his latest collection of rhythms, grooves and melodies that pays tribute to the artistry of Sly & The Family Stone, The Jazz Crusaders, Stevie Wonder, Earth, Wind & Fire, Frankie Beverly & Maze, Grover Washington Jr., Archie Bell, and War. Reuben began writing the set during the Covid quarantine. Although he now lives in the U.S. Virgin Islands, he made frequent trips to Los Angeles in 2021 when he would play the tunes for Vasquez, who began crafting arrangements for the tracks. A year later, they had eighteen songs to choose from.

With Reuben playing tenor and alto sax as well as percussion and Vasquez adding keyboards, synth bass and percussion, they brought in drummer Phil Martin to anchor the beats. After the sessions, Reuben returned to St. Croix with the tracks, tweaking them to get the grooves dialed in. To add guitar, Reuben reached out to Mauricio Guerrero Jr., who had performed on two of the saxophonist’s previous projects.

“Mauricio has a flair with his style of playing the guitar. I admire how he uses his imagination to create riffs that take the music to its promise and gives it identity. He was able to deliver some incredible guitar tracks. As for Phil, who I first started working with for my sixth album (“If You Were Here Tonight”), his creative ability to add flavor to the music with his drum playing has always amazed me,” said Reuben.

Reuben selected ten new songs for the new album and decided to reinvent two – “Time Piece” and “Cool Livin’” – from his first album. “Just Like The Radio” opens with the Sly Stone funkster “Sly Jungle,” which swings from a foundation constructed of congas, heavy percussion and African drums. The warm and lushly melodic “FB Maze” tips its cap to Frankie Beverly and his iconic band. When he’s in the studio working on music, Reuben practices gratitude by frequently saying “What a life,” which became the title of the third cut.

“‘What A Life” is living and enjoying life as you live it, and cherishing your moments in time,” he explained.

The title track derived inspiration from Archie Bell & The Drell’s “Tighten Up.” “It was a tune that opened up with a guitar riff that got people jumping on the dance floor back in the day. I wanted to create the same effect on ‘Just Like The Radio.’”   

Introducing “Time Piece” to a new audience, Vasquez added a fresh twist to the hard-hitting funk groove: the sound of steel drums from Reuben’s adopted home. Vasquez’s role in Reuben’s recordings is acknowledged on “D Vaz.”  

“David Vasquez has been the backbone to my recordings over the past twenty years. His reservoir of ideas when it comes to arranging tunes and adding different sounds to add flavor to our recordings is priceless. I have often said he has been the best thing to happen to me as far as music production. He’s a humble human being who loves turning mediocre songs into something marvelous,” said Reuben.

Among the other standout selections is the reggae and Caribbean influenced “Groovin in V.I. Twin City.” Reuben moved to the Virgin Islands as a teenager. He immersed himself in the native music, learning calypso, reggae and other Latin and Caribbean styles, elements that are prevalent on his records. After spending thirty years in Los Angeles, he returned to live in St. Croix seven years ago.

“There are two towns on the islands and St. Croix is known locally as V.I. Twin City. On the east is Christiansted and Frederiksted is on the west side of the island. So, I dedicated this tune to the island of St. Croix - the only U.S. Virgin Islands that has two towns, which has always been special to me,” Reuben said.

Dusting off another song from his debut record, “Cool Livin” offers a slice of vibrant pop melodies that Reuben says are reminiscent of Kool & The Gang.

“Mellow Tuesday” is a sultry and exotic Latin samba. “My sax solo takes you on this free-flowing journey where you feel this soothing sensational warm breeze touching your heart from the expressive tones. The song has mystic flowing vibes that will touch your soul.”

Observing a young Caribbean girl jubilantly dancing inspired the album closer, “Girl Dancer.” “‘Girl Dancer’ has this feeling of joy when you listen to the Caribbean rhythms that take you on this journey of excitement. The song came from watching this girl dancing to the joyous rhythms that flowed from her feet to her hands, expressing the love of life,” said Reuben, who soft-launched a different version of the album earlier this year.

“We went back into the studio to remix the entire album to make it sound like I always intended it to sound. We also made a subtle change to the album cover.”

Reuben spent decades touring and performing internationally at major jazz, blues and reggae festivals, having shared the stage with Lenny Williams, Barbara Morrison, Phil Perry, Vesta Williams, Ronnie Laws, The Jazz Crusaders, Les McCann, The Itals, Bunny Wailer, Ziggy Marley, Maxi Priest, Third World, Steel Pulse, Burning Spear, UB40, Marcus Miller, Chaka Khan, Gino Vannelli, Dr. John, Etta James, George Clinton and P-Funk All Stars. For over twenty years, Reuben donated his time and talents to sharing the joys of music with disabled children at Los Angeles Unified School District’s Benjamin Banneker Special Education Center.

Easy Tempo Volume 11 – The Round Trip

Finally a long-overdue entry in this legendary series of compilations – one that has given us an awful lot about funky soundtrack music back in the day, finally back in action after a long hiatus. For this go-round, the groove has gotten even deeper – as the series has stretched to include some killer sound library material as well – really mixing together all the jazz, funk, and cinematic elements that were in the previous volumes – yet all with the hip Euro-styled groove that we loved in all of those releases too. There's a huge amount of funky nuggets here, but all with a vibe that's very different than 70s work from the US scene – and although we've missed the Easy Tempo series for many years, we're glad to have them back – as they're still one of the best. This new release contains 20 tracks.

Here's the full playlist:

• Roberto Pregadio "FIRST TIME THREE"
• oul's Soul 'ANGELUS'
• rchestra Mustang 'UNDERTOWN'
• Genius "BERMILYIA AVENUE "
• Gianni Marchetti 'DISPOSTA A TUTTO'
• Raffazzonati "MARIA SCHNEIDER"
• Brooklyn Bridge Group "TAKE ME TO NEW YORK"
• Hugh Bullen "SUNSHINE TRAIN"
• Carlo Cordara e i Waterloo "UN UOMO CHE LAVORA" Inst)
• Les Chakachas "SUPER CAT"
• Le Streghe "KAPUA PELE EA"
• Ninety "AFRICAN FLUTE"
• Lara Saint Paul "THE VOODOO LADY"
• Ivano Fossati / Oscar Prudente "TEMA DEL LUPO "
• Sandro Brugnolini / Luigi Malatesta "AFRO FREE" unreleased edit
• Doriano Saracino "JOSIE'S THEME"
• Enzo Scoppa "GUIDA SICURA"
• Gino Marinacci "MEETING"
• The Gypsy "GERSHWIN MEDLEY — SUMMERTIME"

Tanika Charles Releases the New EP "The Union Sessions"

Toronto’s soul songstress Tanika Charles is back with a new live in studio EP, "The Union Sessions", to be released on July 26th on digital platforms. Following the release of her third studio album "Papillon de Nuit" in 2022, Canadian soulstress Tanika Charles announces a new live in studio EP called "The Union Sessions", to be released next July 26th on digital platforms. Recorded live at Union Sound studio in Toronto, the EP comprises a total of five tracks: four of these appeared originally on Tanika’s first EP "What? What! What?!" from 2010, while “Since You Been Gone” was on her second album "The Gumption" from 2019. The artist also announced a summer tour in Canada, starting from Toronto on June 29th. See the upcoming performance  dates below. 

Tanika Charles has earned her stripes as a performing artist. Through nearly a decade of headlining she has revealed a knack for engaging her audiences, weaving storytelling, and building dynamism into every measure of her time on stage. As such, much of her catalogue of songs have evolved from their original studio recordings in a number of creative and interesting ways. This is especially true for some of her earliest works, originally constructed over instrumental beds more reminiscent of looped hip-hop beats. "The Union Sessions" is a freeze frame of evolution, bringing the tour-tested versions of these songs into a studio setting. 

Far from a dusting off of old material, these songs have remained staples of Tanika’s live show. The writing harkens to a moment of innocence from a nascent songstress, eager for expression, but yet to carve a particular path. But with these new recordings that journey and realization is laid bare, serving a gumbo of influence and experience. Having now been played hundreds of times, these songs are the product of constant iteration, unlikely to remain as is for very long. 

The assembled band for this project is a dream team of some of the best musicians Canada has to offer. Accompanying Tanika on vocals were frequent collaborators D/SHON Henderson and emerging solo artist Tafari Anthony. Jemuel “J3M” Roberts, another solo artist of note, joined on piano, EP and synths. Members of Toronto mainstay band re.verse formed the core band, with Damian Matthew on bass, Robb Cappelletto on guitar and Austin Gembora on drums. 

All songs were recorded off the floor in a single afternoon sitting at Union Sound without overdubs. Featured guest i.james.jones popped in for all of 20 minutes, laid his verse and exited like an absolute pro. Engineer Alex Gamble recorded and mixed the entire project with a particular aim towards producing evocative Dolby Atmos mixes.

Canada Tour Dates:

• 29 June - Toronto, ON - TD Toronto Jazz Festival
• 01 July - Grand Bend, ON - Grand Bend Canada Day Celebration
• 07 July - Orillia, ON - Mariposa Folk Festival
• 08 July - Orillia, ON - Mariposa Folk Festival
• 13 July - Halifax, NS - TD Halifax Jazz Festival
• 20 July - Vancouver, BC - Guilt & Co.
• 22 July - Mission, BC - Mission Folk Music Festival
• 23 July - Mission, BC - Mission Folk Music Festival
• 25 July - Kelowna, BC - Red Bird Brewing
• 27 July - Trail, BC - Gyro Park Music Series
• 01 August - Lethbridge, AB - Wide Skies Music & Art Festival
• 03 August - Fonthill, ON - Fonthill Bandshell
• 12 August - Fernie, BC - Wapiti Music Festival
• 15 August - Red Deer, AB - Bo’s Bar & Stage
• 16 August - Calgary, AB - Sweet Loretta
• 17 August - Edmonton, AB - SOHO YEG
• 19 August - Grande Prairie, AB - Bear Creek Folk Festival
• 20 August - Grande Prairie, AB - Bear Creek Folk Festival

Nina Simone's Live Performance of "Mississippi Goddam" from Newport 1966 Off Newly Discovered Album "You've Got to Learn"

As part of a year-long celebration of Nina Simone’s 90th birthday, Verve Records and UMe have announced the release of You’ve Got To Learn, a newly-discovered recording of Nina’s performance at the 1966 Newport Jazz Festival, set for release July 21 via Verve Records. Out today is the first single from the album, “Mississippi Goddam.” 

On July 2, 1966, the Newport Jazz Festival witnessed a legendary six-song set by Nina Simone that has remained etched in the memory of music aficionados for over half a century. Now, a previously-unknown and unreleased recording of the unforgettable concert is available for the world to hear.

The newly-released recording captures the essence of Simone’s performance at the festival, showcasing her incredible vocal range and her unparalleled ability to connect with her audience. Listening to this recording, it's easy to understand why hearing Nina Simone in concert was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Starting with a mesmerizing rendition of “You’ve Got To Learn,” Simone showcased the full range of her artistry, with an electrifying and uniquely-swinging performance of “Mississippi Goddam.” The audience, unwilling to let her leave the stage, gave her a passionate standing ovation and were rewarded with an unforgettable show-stopping encore – “Music For Lovers.”

Liner notes for the album are provided by Shana L. Redmond, a respected scholar and author who has written extensively on Simone’s life and legacy. Her notes provide a valuable context for the performance and help listeners understand the historical significance of Simone’s music.

The release of this recording is a momentous occasion for music lovers and fans of Nina Simone worldwide. It is a rare opportunity to experience the magic of one of the most exceptional performers of the 20th century.

Herbie Hancock and Gladys Knight Headline 37th Annual The National Grid Jazz Fest, June 21-25 in Syracuse, New York

Keyboardist and NEA Jazz Master and Grammy winner Herbie Hancock will join songstress and  Grammy winner and 2022 Kennedy Center Honoree, Gladys Knight to co-headline the 37th edition of the National Grid Jazz Fest in Syracuse, NY from Wednesday, June 21 to through, Sunday 25.

Produced by Jazz Fest founder Frank Malfitano, the event features forty bands performing on two outdoor stages and in 24 clubs throughout downtown Syracuse, New York. National and internationally touring and recording artists, including Spyro Gyra, Tower of Power, Postmodern Jukebox, Tuba Skinny, Joyce Di Camillo, Nancy Kelly and Marissa Mulder.

Opening Night, June 23, the festival will feature 24 indoor and outdoor club performances at two dozen downtown clubs, bars and restaurants featuring the Syracuse region’s top jazz artists from 4-11 p.m. The Late Night New York Band featuring bassist Tom Brigandi, trumpeter Joe Magnarelli and saxophonist Eric Alexander heads the list of the Syracuse area’s top jazz groups, along with Syracuse Area Music Award Hall of Fame vocalist Ronnie Leigh.

On Thursday, June 22 there are two performances at the Visit Syracuse Stage at Hanover Square, including Harri Stojka & Acoustic Drive from Vienna, Austria and the all-star soul jazz ensemble Something Else!, which features jazz legends Vincent Herring, James Carter, Randy Brecker, Paul Bollenback, Dave Kikoski, Jeff "Tain" Watts and Essiet Essiet.

The 2023 festival will close out on Sunday, June 25 at the Syracuse University Hendricks Chapel with a Jazz Fest-ending gospel concert and celebration. The Syracuse University Faculty Jazz Ensemble and The Syracuse University Student Jazz Ensemble will also be performing during this year’s Jazz Fest.

Admission to all 2023 National Grid Jazz Fest events, concerts and performances is free and open to the public. Support for the Syracuse Jazziest is provided by a Market New York grant from I LOVE NY/ New York State’s Division of Tourism through the Regional Economic Development Council initiative. According to festival organizers and NY State Assemblyman Al Stirpe, funding will be used to engage in the largest major statewide marketing campaign in Jazz Fest history, with the goal of boosting attendance and regional tourism.

SCHEDULE

Wednesday, June 21: 4-11 p.m., Downtown Syracuse clubs, bars, hotels, restaurants

Thursday, June 22: 4-9 p.m., Hanover Square Outdoor Stage - Harri Stojka & Acoustic Drive, Something Else! (feat. Vincent Herring, James Carter, Randy Brecker, Paul Bollenback, Dave Kikowski, Jeff "Tain" Watts and Essiet Essiet)

Friday, June 23: 5:30-10:30 p.m., Clinton Square Outdoor Stage - Postmodern Jukebox, Tower of Power, Herbie Hancock

Saturday, June 24: 5:30-10:30 p.m., Clinton Square Outdoor Stage - Tuba Skinny, Spyro Gyra, Gladys Knight

Sunday, June 25: 12:30-4:30 p.m., Hendricks Chapel Syracuse University Campus - Gospel closing ceremonies feat The Dillard University Gospel Choir of New Orleans

Sandra Booker & The New Trio - The Reunion Concert

Sometimes the best way to move forward is to go back. For jazz singer-songwriter Sandra Booker, she’s ready to pick up exactly where she left off eight years ago when she recorded a live album with her then band, The New Trio. Releasing the album, “The Reunion Concert Live from Pasadena Conservatory of Music: Barrett Hall,” this July 14 is a monumental step forward for Booker after enduring a traumatizing eight years that include sexual assault and a life-threatening cancer bout, which combined to put a halt on her once promising performing, recording and touring career. 

The 2015 concert showcasing Booker elegantly singing and astutely scatting a set of standards and a few of her original storytelling compositions took place several months after she was sexually assaulted by a musician she knew and trusted. Still numb and traumatized, Booker was determined that the show - and the recording - must go on.

“Producing that show was such a labor of love because I was still reeling from the assault in silence but determined not to let it take away my passion for music and the joy I knew it gave to others,” said Booker.

A year after the Pasadena concert, Booker was diagnosed with bladder cancer, a diagnosis she believes came as a direct result of the sexual trauma she endured. The assault awoke memories of past childhood abuse. The lengthy cancer battle that ensued became the primary focus of Booker’s existence for six years.

Having reported the rape to police, Booker found herself being gaslit and shunned by the music and cancer communities. In fact, one nonprofit organization for which she served as musical director for two major fundraising jazz concerts turned her away, refusing to provide services or care to her that her own efforts helped fund.

The gifted songbird to whom five-time Grammy winner, six-time Academy Awards nominee and four-time Emmy nominee Lalo Schifrin – the legend who wrote the liner notes for “The Reunion Concert Live from Pasadena Conservatory of Music: Barrett Hall” - calls one of his two favorite jazz vocalists was silenced over these years when all she wanted to do was sing and entertain.

Last fall, after no longer showing signs of disease, Booker didn’t know where or how to begin her comeback. But reading a timely post on social media about creating a comeback changed that. In those words, Booker saw a path towards getting back to doing what she loved. It meant going back to when life as she knew it came to a halt. It meant finally releasing the recording she intended to release eight years ago. She believes releasing the collection is pivotal to resuming her life, restoring her reputation and rebuilding her brand.        

“I feel it is time to release this project to the world and get it off of my heart and spirit. I’m proud of the work and due to health challenges that nearly took my life, time is now of the essence. I have had a rough life but I’m not a victim. I’ve built my life on speaking the truth and being genuine. I love the person I have chosen to be, and I search for the good in myself. I am determined not to become like the people who have harmed me. Facing my mortality gave me the resilience and motivation to do that and whatever is left of my life is dedicated to being the best I can be. Music is medicine to me, life is for living, and reclaiming that part of my life means everything to me,” said Booker defiantly.

The set list Booker curated for “The Reunion Concert Live from Pasadena Conservatory of Music: Barrett Hall” is, not surprisingly, deeply personal and emotional, exploring love, heartbreak and hope. 

“The album is a love letter to myself and chronicles my ups and downs of falling in love, being betrayed by it, and finding the hope to love again. It explores the perils of unrequited love, the dream of reunion and reconciliation, and the bitter disappointment of knowing that sometimes the love we wanted will never come to fruition. It touches on family and friendship, and the psychological and emotional challenges of losing those bonds. At its core, this album is about love in its various manifestations. I wanted to musically express the highs and lows of realizing the only love we can surely rely on is the love we create and nurture within ourselves,” said Booker, who was accompanied by Tamir Hendelman (piano), Robert Perkins (drums), Dave Robaire (upright bass) and Steve Cotter (guitar).

“The Reunion Concert Live” opens with a Booker original, penned while working on her 1995 debut album, “Very Early,” and designed to sound like it came from the Great American Songbook or a Broadway show.  

“I opened the album with this track because it demonstrates the feelings we hope will come by revealing our affection for someone and the desire they will return those feelings,” Booker shared.

Booker reimagines Duke Ellington’s “In a Sentimental Mood" as an up-tempo Latin number and shines brightly on “My Ship.”

“I was drawn to the mysterious, ethereal elements of the song's (“My Ship”) melody, harmony, and words as a metaphoric love passage. It speaks to the uncertainty of life and love, and the journey it takes us on,” she said.

First recorded by Sarah Vaughan, Booker’s pained experiences around the recording date fueled her stunning performance on “Black Coffee.” 

“This song talks about failed love, what it does to those discarded by it, and the vices we adapt to soothe the suffering of that reality. The lyric and music resonated with me because of my personal experience with love gone awry when I was developing this show.”

The arrangement Handelman and Booker crafted for “It Could Happen To You” precedes the Pasadena concert by ten years. The vocalist wrote “What Made God?” after her grandmother’s passing.

“She was my inspiration and hero. It is a deeply personal song based on kitchen conversations held over Creole coffee and tea cakes about religion, life and death, and the mystery and magic of it all. As a child, I questioned everything the way kids do. In my grandmother, I found someone who didn't claim to know all the answers. Instead, she would say ‘I don't know.’ That was the most honest and gracious of responses. She encouraged me to seek the answers I would come to search for from my own experiences, finding truth according to my dreams and beliefs,” Booker recalled fondly.

Ira and George Gershwin’s "But Not for Me" appealed to Booker because it contradicts the narrative of love conquering all.

“It speaks to love lost and the debilitating state it leaves the brokenhearted and the despair of believing in romantic love only to realize love can deceive and betray us. The pain of it is epitomized in this song, and that's the story I wanted to tell. Written in 1930 for the musical ‘Crazy Girl,’ love makes us crazy when we take a chance with someone who doesn't want to or is incapable of returning those feelings, and the toxicity of it when that's the outcome,” said Booker.

Booker’s “Eddie” is a fond remembrance of the affections she received as a teenager and the subsequent disappointment she experienced from interracial relationships. The song is about the one boy who couldn’t be swayed by skin color or peer pressure when it came to his feelings for Booker.

The album closes with the hopeful “The Song Is You,” which Booker says reflects the ethos of the entire record.

“This song expresses the excitement and joy of learning to love again, finding the courage to follow one's heart, and how new love can bloom into a beautiful experience. The song became a metaphor for love being everywhere when we least expect it and how it heals and renews us,” concluded Booker.

“The Reunion Concert Live” is the first of a prolific slate of recording projects Booker has in the pipeline to make up for lost time. The release marks the rebirth of a career, but, more importantly, the resumption of a radiantly gifted life interrupted by unimagined darkness and sorrow. If everyone really does love a comeback story, just wait until Sandra Booker writes hers by the life she courageously lives beginning with the release of this inspired album.      

Ash Walker | "Astronaut"

Four years on from his explorative third full-length ‘Aquamarine,’ Londoner Ash Walker returns with an equally ambitious follow-up, set for release via Night Time Stories on 30th June. Alongside a plethora of award-winning collaborators and combining a dizzying array of sounds, ‘Astronaut’ hears Walker push his astral shower of rhythm and vibes to new heights. If 'Aquamarine’ was the take-off of his audial spaceship, ‘Astronaut’ is the cosmic voyage reaching terminal velocity; a rocket-powered masterclass spanning jazz, blues, soul, funk, and reggae.

‘Astronaut’ opens with ‘Only Love’ and features dreamy vocals from inimitable Mercury-nominee and Lamb member Lou Rhodes. “I’d always been such a fan of her work with Lamb and the West-Country scene growing up ,and I felt so privileged when she said yes,” explains Walker. After recording it in Somerset, the pair agreed it was in need of a choir, and Laville & Sheree Dubois were called up to elevate that Sunday service feeling. ‘Letting Go’ was developed from a sketch at Walker’s home studio, with some of the Ebi Soda crew cooking up some beats  and award-winning producer, engineer and songwriter Andrew Ashong providing the final magic touch. Having been a huge fan of Amp Fiddler and the Detroit scene from his teenage years, Walker was hungry to get him involved in the project.’ "When I first heard the vocals for ‘Afronaut,’ I was lost for words. Not only had he smashed the brief, but he clearly  understood my vision of the entire project," recalls Walker.

Another afternoon with the Ebi Soda gang saw 'Babylonian Triangle Of Captivity' come to light, its name inspired by Franco Rosso and Martin Stellman's 1980 classic film ‘Babylon.' Denitia blew Walker away with her vocal offering on 'Time Gets Wasted,’ and Grammy winner Sly5thAve (Prince, Stevie Wonder, Gladys Knight) went the extra mile on sax, clarinet, bass clarinet and flute. Next up Ezra Collective and Nubya Garcia band member Joe Armon-Jones and South London music-scene pioneer Oscar Jerome join forces on ‘Automaton,’ and  British-Bahraini horn player Yazz Ahmed lays down some flugelhorn magic on ‘Running Away.' After playing ‘Petrolhead’ live for years, Walker finally summoned a suitable cast to do it justice in the studio, before Ahmed’s muted trumpet breathes some extra life into penultimate groove ‘Detroit Velvet Smooth.” Intended to represent the slow rotation of Jupiter on its axis, label buddy Kennebec provides fitting flourishes to the albums final offering. A beautiful and thought-provoking finale to a cosmic masterpiece, it cements Walker’s place amongst jazz music’s elite. We have lift off.

An avid record collector, Walker has DJed far and wide... from the infamous Royal Mail squat party to the canals of Venice, spinning vinyl in Brixton with The Specials to scattering dub across San Francisco and LA. His own production output is similarly exploratory: his journeys have taken him far and wide, from tunnels under the river Thames to recording local percussionists in the Atlas mountains of Morocco. Inspired by a deep dive of sounds from artists including Duke Ellington, Quincy Jones, King Tubby, Bo Diddley, 4Hero, J Dilla, Pete Rock, Curtis Mayfield, Philip Glass, and Steve Reich; his first two albums, ‘Augmented 7th’ (2015) and ‘Echo Chamber’ (2016) gained attention from the likes of BBC 6 Music DJs Gilles Peterson, Don Letts and Gideon Coe.

Javon Jackson – “With Peter Bradley” Soundtrack and Original Score

Undersung in the art world despite a prolific 50-year career, abstract artist Peter Bradley has finally begun receiving his due acclaim. That continues with the release of the new documentary With Peter Bradley, which documents the artist’s dedicated daily practice. Bradley’s work is inextricably linked with his love of jazz, which provides the atmosphere and inspiration for all of his paintings. Saxophonist and composer Javon Jackson provides a score for the film that nods to some of Bradley’s favorite jazz icons – including Miles Davis, John Coltrane and Jackson’s former employer, Art Blakey – while vibrantly capturing the moods and personalities of the film and its subject.

“With Peter Bradley” Soundtrack and Original Score features Jackson’s quartet with pianist Jeremy Manasia, bassist David Williams and drummer Charles Goold along with guest trumpeter Greg Glassman. In addition to the film’s score, the album also includes four tracks recorded during the sessions for Jackson’s acclaimed 2022 release The Gospel According to Nikki Giovanni featuring the quartet, this time with drummer McClenty Hunter. 

Jackson was an ideal choice to compose the film’s score, not just for his direct ties to the jazz tradition that has fueled Bradley’s work and his gift for musical portraiture, but for his longtime friendship with the artist. “I’ve known Peter Bradley for many years,” Jackson recounts. “He was a friend of Art Blakey’s, so he would often come to see the band during my time with Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers. Over the years we stayed in contact and I knew that he was an artist, but I didn't know to what degree.” 

Upon viewing the film and becoming acquainted with the magnitude of Bradley’s oeuvre, Jackson came to recognize not just a friend but also a kindred spirit. “He’s a jazz musician,” the saxophonist chuckled, “only his instrument is paint.”

Premiered at the 2023 Slamdance Film Festival, With Peter Bradley is an intimate portrait of the 79-year-old artist helmed by Bradley’s Saugerties, NY neighbor and filmmaker Alex  Rappoport. It traces the artist’s biography as the first Black art dealer on Madison Avenue, curator of the first integrated modern art show in America, and likely the first Black abstract artist represented by a major New York gallery. 

Despite those accolades, Bradley hadn’t been the subject of a major gallery show in decades, though he doggedly returned to his shipping container studio every day, working by the heat of a wood stove. Initial reviews since the film’s January premiere have been laudatory, with Film Threat calling it “documentary in its purest form… riveting.” 

Jackson’s soundtrack works thrillingly as an album of muscular hard bop and evocative ballads, as anyone familiar with the saxophonist’s storied career would expect. In conjunction with Rappoport’s images, the score reveals Jackson as a nuanced jazz portraitist, able to condense character or action into bold, swinging melody. The album opens with his melancholy theme for the painter himself, while “Edith Ramsey” is a tender depiction of Bradley’s adoptive mother. 

“I approached the film with an open mind,” Jackson explains succinctly. “I knew that Peter loves John Coltrane, Mingus, Clifford Brown and Max Roach – so there are hints of all of them. From there I just followed the mood of the piece and offered something based on my musical thoughts that would adhere to the scene.”

With Peter Bradley is Jackson’s first original score, fulfilling a longtime desire awakened when he composed a suite of music to accompany Alfred Hitchcock’s silent classic The Lodger, commissioned by the Syracuse International Film Festival in 2009. The remaining pieces were recorded at the spur of the moment during the sessions for The Gospel According to Nikki Giovanni, Jackson’s widely hailed collaboration with the renowned poet. Two originals – “Amy’s Theme,” dedicated to a close friend’s late wife, and “Brother G,” written for close friend Kenny Garrett – they include the classic standard “Never Let Me Go” and Dizzy Gillespie’s “That’s Earl Brother,” all of which fit the mood brilliantly and could yield future masterpieces as the soundtrack to Bradley’s ongoing creations.

Missouri-born tenor saxophonist Javon Jackson left his studies at Berklee College of Music in 1986 to join Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, where he later played alongside pianist Benny Green, trumpeter Philip Harper, trombonist Robin Eubanks and bassist Peter Washington. Jackson remained a fixture in the Jazz Messengers until Blakey’s passing in 1990. In 1991, Jackson made his recording debut with Me and Mr. Jones, featuring James Williams, Christian McBride, and master drummer Elvin Jones. He joined Jones’ group in 1992, appearing on the great drummer’s albums Youngblood and Going Home. Jackson’s 1994 Blue Note debut, When the Time Is Right, was a straight-ahead affair produced by iconic jazz vocalist and bandleader Betty Carter. His subsequent four Blue Note recordings featured wildly eclectic programs ranging from Caetano Veloso, Frank Zappa and Santana to Muddy Waters, Al Green and Serge Gainsbourg. For the Palmetto label he explored a blend of funk, jazz and soul with such stellar sidemen as organist Dr. Lonnie Smith, guitarists Mark Whitfield and David Gilmore, trombonist Fred Wesley and drummer Lenny White. In 2012, he launched his own Solid Jackson Records with Celebrating John Coltrane. His latest release for the label, The Gospel According to Nikki Giovanni, was a historic, gospel-tinged collaboration with the renowned African American poet, activist and educator.

 

Rising star pianist Noah Haidu’s newest is Standards, celebrates the 40th anniversary of the release that launched Keith Jarrett’s great Standards Trio and arrives on the heels of Haidu’s two recent acclaimed Sunnyside albums, most notably 2021’s SLOWLY: Song for Keith Jarrett. Featuring Haidu with bassists Buster Williams and Peter Washington, drummer Lewis Nash and guest saxophonist Steve Wilson, Standards is, in part, the soulmate to SLOWLY, which DownBeat called “a stunning and heartfelt tribute.” After Haidu, Buster Williams and Billy Hart recorded its last two songs – “But Beautiful” and “Georgia on My Mind” – Williams said, “Those two standards were beautiful, got any more?” 

The next step in the evolution of Standards happened not in the studio but on the road. After recording SLOWLY, Haidu felt drawn to the format used by Jarrett, DeJohnette, and Peacock for their Standards Trio. When Nash, a drummer who was already ubiquitous when Haidu was first falling in love with jazz in his teens, joined Haidu and Williams during their 2021 tour, the connection was electric. “When Buster, Lewis and I played for the first time we played a lot of standards and I could feel that there was something special happening that I wanted to document,” says Haidu. “It felt as though every song had emotional depth, every note we played mattered. The 40th anniversary of the most celebrated ensemble to play standards in my lifetime seemed like the perfect moment to make my own statement on this music.”

With Doctone, 2020’s tribute to the late, great Kenny Kirkland, and the subsequent SLOWLY, Haidu’s renown has grown rapidly: Larry Blumenfeld penned an in-depth feature about Haidu’s projects in the Wall Street Journal, and NPR cast its spotlight on the ascendant pianist with features on “Here and Now” and “All Songs Considered.” Three million streams in the last 18 months are testament to Haidu’s rapidly increasing fan base.

One of the benefits of Haidu’s growing international acclaim is his ever-expanding sense of artistic freedom which allowed him to take certain risks on Standards. “There’s something so vulnerable about playing in this context, where you’re completely exposed,” he says. “Of course, I love composing because you can create an entire world, your own language of sound. But with these old standards all you’ve got is your own musicality and the connection you have with the music and the players. That requires a willingness to let go and see where the song takes you, something that can’t be taught or practiced.”

Many of the tracks on Standards have been recorded by Jarrett’s trio with Peacock and DeJohnette. All are ‘standards’ except “Last Dance I” and “Last Dance II,” which Haidu named after a Jarrett recording and composed in tribute to the Standards Trio and their final concert at the New Jersey Performing Arts Center, which he attended. Haidu remembers that at one point Jarrett joked with the audience: “Don’t try this at home.” Thinking back to that night in 2014 Haidu reflects, “I believe I subconsciously took that as a challenge. Not to follow in their footsteps, but to build on my own voice with the trio and these songs.”

For Haidu, that evolving endeavor has led to his own impassioned approach to the piano trio. “The theme of lost love is the emotional center of so many of these songs such as ‘Skylark,’ ‘All the Way’ and ‘I Thought About You.’ That’s something I’ve been dealing with in music and life,” says Haidu. “There’ve been a few painful breakups in recent years and I lost my father with whom I was very close. That universal feeling of lost love comes into play on so many standards, especially on ballads. As I started incorporating that music into my repertoire fans would come up to me after the show and say, ‘Those ballads…wow!’”

Standards begins with “Old Folks” and “Just in Time,” both part of Jarrett/Peacock/ DeJohnnette’s oeuvre. Haidu’s trademarks of soulful touch and melodic imagination are on full display buoyed by Williams’ supple bass lines and Nash’s crisp, fluid drumming.  A deeply swinging version of “A Beautiful Friendship” follows. On a moving slow motion version of “All the Way” that depends as much on group interaction as the original melody, the trio seems to breathe as one.

“Someday My Prince Will Come” features Peter Washington in the bass chair. The trio’s forward momentum and clarity of tone drive this tune forward, along with Haidu and Washington’s sublime improvisations. On “You and the Night and the Music,” saxophonist Steve Wilson joins the trio with a freewheeling, rich-toned alto. Haidu’s solo builds on the energy of Wilson’s until Nash’s unaccompanied drums take the song, which was played by Jarrett at his Deerhead Inn concert, to its climax. The quartet’s hauntingly beautiful rendition of “Ana Maria,” composed by the legendary saxophonist Wayne Shorter, reflects the theme of loss. The piece was written for Shorter’s wife, who later passed away tragically with their niece Dalila on TWA flight 800. “With the loss of Ana Maria, Dalila and of Wayne himself, this song now embodies the narrative of loss in so many ways,” says Haidu.

On “Skylark,” Haidu’s exquisite right-hand melodies are accompanied by the precise yet delicate rhythm of his left hand. “I Thought About You” finds Haidu at his most propulsive and harmonically imaginative best, with the trio reveling in the joy of playing together. Haidu’s ”Last Dance I” and “Last Dance II” bring back the quartet for a moody and expressive 3/4 piece featuring soaring solos by Wilson and Haidu. The album ends with cascades of rhythm from Nash over a repeated ensemble refrain. 

Like Jarrett, Haidu started playing classical piano at a young age. Moving frequently as a result of his parents’ divorce, music became the one constant in his life. He became fascinated with blues, R&B and eventually jazz. “I’ve worked hard on my playing since I was six years old,” he says. “Besides Jarrett and Kenny Kirkland I’m inspired by bop, modal players, classical and gospel music.”

Haidu has truly lived in music for his whole adult life. having dropped out of the jazz program at Rutgers after two years to move to New York City and begin performing with the likes of Walter Perkins, Duane Eubanks, Essiet Essiet, and more recently Billy Hart, Steve Wilson, Carl Allen, Willie Jones III, Jon Irabagon, and Gary Thomas. Of his exemplary trio Haidu says simply, “We are seeking the deepest level of expression. It’s not about technique, tricks or trends. It’s all heart.”

 

Roni Ben-Hur | "Love Letters"

Love Letters is the new recording from guitarist Roni Ben-Hur and is yet another testament to support the fact that the guitarist is widely respected by his peers, and the press, as one of the jazz-elite. Emigrating to the States in 1985, Ben-Hur was one of the first Israeli jazz musicians to make his mark in New York City, preceding the many waves of talented Israeli artists to move to the Big Apple. Upon arriving, Ben-Hur almost immediately began studies at the Jazz Cultural Theater under the legendary pianist Barry Harris. There, the guitarist played with such bop stalwarts as bassist Walter Booker, drummer Leroy Williams, the “musician’s musician,” pianist Chris Anderson, and became an integral member of Harris’s band from 1991 to 2007. Ben-Hur has since amassed an impressive catalogue of highly-successful and acclaimed albums under his own leadership, including Signature (2005), Keepin' It Open (2007), Fortuna (2009), Smile (with Gene Bertoncini, 2008), Mojave (2011), Our Thing (2012), Alegria De Vivre (with Leny Andrade, 2015), Manhattan Style – Our Thing (2016), Introspection (with Harvie S, 2019), Samba Do Arraial (with Percio Sapia, 2020), Stories (2021) and Something For Kenny (2021). Ben-Hur is also the founder and director of the popular jazz program at New York’s Kaufman Center, and has conducted annual jazz camps in the U.S. and abroad since 2002, exposing thousands of students, hobbyists and aspiring professionals to the challenges, rewards and camaraderie, inherent in this music. 

Guitarist Russell Malone comments that, "Everything Roni does is beautiful. He has the magic touch.” The late, esteemed journalist Nat Hentoff of The Wall Street Journal praised Ben-Hur’s duet release, Smile, with Gene Bertoncini, as “a lyrically meditative dialogue.” With Love Letters, the latest masterpiece in his forty-plus year career of performing, composing, recording and teaching jazz, Ben-Hur gives us a musical mosaic that invites us to reconnect with what matters most in life. For Ben-Hur, what matters most are the intimate moments he and his band members create and share with each other and with audiences around the world.

While many of the compositions on Love Letters were written by giants such as Leonard Bernstein (“Lonely Town”), Benny Golson (“Fair Weather”), and Ben-Hur’s long-time mentor, the late, great Barry Harris (“To Dizzy with Love”), Ben-Hur once again showcases his formidable composing chops with four original compositions. The Quartet on Love Letters, Ben-Hur with trumpeter Ingrid Jensen, bassist Ugonna Okegwo and drummer Jason Tiemann, creates an irresistible atmosphere of musical harmony and loving connection.

Each of Ben-Hur’s compositions reflect an aspect of the love that has propelled the guitarist to ever greater heights in the life and in jazz. With “To Dizzy with Love,” he shares a memory of his friend Barry Harris with a buoyant rendition of a song they once played together at Birdland. In this interpretation we are treated to a joyous dance of swing and Caribbean rhythms.

On “Seul `a Paris” (alone in Paris), Ben-Hur’s wistful strings and Jensen’s muted trumpet speak of what it is like to fly solo in the “City of Love.”

With the composition, “Waiting for JH”, co-written with the late American pianist Chris Anderson, Ben-Hur sends a “love letter” to the late Jim Harrison, one of the genre’s most indomitable advocates and promoters, who worked tirelessly for a “who’s who” in jazz. 

The voice of the unspeakable is heard in “The House that Yosef Built,” a love letter to Ben-Hur’s father. The tune evokes a rush of memories about the hardships his parents faced in their escape from Tunisia in the aftermath of World War II. Guitar, bass and drum deftly lay a rhythmic foundation, and Jensen’s triumphant trumpet celebrates the family’s resilience and the sturdy house and home that Yosef Ben-Hur was determined to build for his family. 

Love Letters concludes with Ben-Hur’s soulful instrumental interpretation of the Victor Young classic, “Love Letters.” Speaking from his heart, his eloquent guitar offer a final expression of love for jazz music, his extended jazz family, and for people everywhere. The song and this sensuous album remind us of a timeless truth. In the words of lyricist, Edward Heyman, “Love letters straight from the heart keep us so near while apart.”

Portions of this press release borrow from the album’s liner notes, written by Terry Edmonds, a New York based freelance writer and poet. He was formerly chief speechwriter for President Bill Clinton.

Tour Dates:

• May 22: The Roni Ben-Hur Trio at The Zinc Bar, NYC
• May 24: Guest with Frank Vignola's Guitar Night at Birdland Theater
• May 31: WGBO Interview & Performance with Melissa Stylianou
• June 5-12 & 13-20: RBH Jazz Camps in the South of France
• July 21: The Roni Ben-Hur Trio at Maureen’s Jazz Cellar, Nyack, NY
• July 26: Sheila Jordan, Roni Ben-Hur and Harvie S at Pangea, NYC
• July 30-August 6: RBH Jazz Camp at UVM, Burlington, VT
• Aug 10: The Roni Ben-Hur Trio at Ornithology, Brooklyn, NY
• Aug 18-20: Joyce Moreno w/Special Guest Roni Ben-Hur @ Dizzy’s Club, JALC, NYC
• Aug 25 & 26: The Roni Ben-Hur Quintet plays the music of Barry Harris at The Jazz Forum, Tarrytown, NY
• Sept 6: The Roni Ben-Hur Quartet at Birdland Theater, NYC
• Sept 9: The Roni Ben-Hur Quartet at Kindred Spirits Arts Program, Milford, PA
• Sept 23: The Roni Ben-Hur Trio at Room 31, NYC
• Oct 3: The Roni Ben-Hur Trio at Chapel of the Holy Spirit, Sacred Heart University, Fairfield, CT
• Oct 6: The Roni Ben-Hur Trio at Scullers Jazz Club, Boston, MA

Louis Stewart & Noel Kelehan | "Some Other Blues"

The previously unreleased ‘Some Other Blues’ is regarded as a Holy Grail of Irish Jazz as it’s the only known studio recording of Louis Stewart and Noel Kelehan(pronounce “keel-a-han"). While Stewart was a local hero and internationally renowned guitarist, Kelehan was not well known as a jazz pianist outside of Ireland due to his TV-based composing, arranging and conducting, even though jazz was his first love.

Here we find Louis Stewart and Noel Kelehan, two giants of Irish jazz, in the kind of electrifying form that thrilled Irish jazz audiences in the 1960s, and 70s, in a programme of duets that scale the heights of swing, virtuosity, and interplay.

Guitar and piano duet albums are uncommon in jazz, with Bill Evans and Jim Hall’s probably the best known. As Louis and Noel were huge admirers of both, they may well have been an inspiration for ‘Some Other Blues’.

Both men were bone fide virtuosi, and there is a real sense of them revelling in their abilities, sparring with each other, and enjoying the excitement of the chase. While the omission of bass and drums opens many possibilities, it jettisons the safety net of the rhythm section.

Of the nine tunes, three of them – ‘You Stepped Out Of A Dream’, ‘Minority', and ‘I’ll Remember April’ are taken at blistering pace. And despite sometimes living on the edge of playable tempos, Louis and Noel don’t drop as much as a beat, even in the white heat of ‘I’ll Remember April’ with its extraordinary tempo of 285bpm. They each unleash lightning-fast solos, while playing through a set of chord substitutions that pile more chords on top of an already chord-rich piece.

The harmonic sophistication is a common feature of the album’s medium and fast tempo tunes, and the arrangements have Noel’s fingerprints all over them. His ability to jump backwards and forwards between keys, and the arrangement of Coltrane’s ‘Some Other Blues’, in which the first two choruses of both the guitar and piano solos feature two chords in every bar which constantly change key, is typical of Noel. 

Louis is a perfect partner to Noel’s harmonic daredevilry, with his flawless technique, effortlessly flowing melodies, and deep swing. Each man is the perfect foil for the other, provoking and challenging in a playful way. This is very clear on ‘Singin' In The Rain’, where Noel plays the melody in minimalistic octaves, while Louis provides an almost Freddie Green-esque strummed accompaniment, making for the album’s most mischievous take.

The album’s two ballads, Tadd Dameron’s classic ‘If You Could See Me Now’, and Noel’s own beautiful ‘I Only Have Time To Say I Love You’ reveal two masters capable of the kind of deep lyricism that the best ballad playing requires.

The album was recorded in Bray, just south of Dublin, in the same studio where Louis Stewart recorded his solo Out On His Own masterpiece just a few months earlier.  

Trombonist MICHAEL DAVIS Presents: OPEN CITY

Sometimes, a musician is described as someone who has, “played with everyone.” It usually means they’re a “musician’s musician,” have an enviable CV and have done quite a bit of high profile sideman work over many years. Trombonist/composer Michael Davis takes this narrative into the stratosphere, with a diverse and acclaimed career currently over the 40 year mark, and proceeding unimpeded, full-steam ahead. Davis is widely known as the trombonist for five world tours with the Rolling Stones, and touring and recording extensively with Frank Sinatra. Davis spent two amazing years with the Buddy Rich Big Band, and as testimony to his versatility and wide regard, the list of jazz and pop luminaries he has worked with includes: James Taylor, Michael Jackson, Bob Dylan, Aerosmith, Tony Bennett, Jay Z, Sarah Vaughan, Sting, Beck, Branford Marsalis, Peter Gabriel, Sheryl Crow, Lyle Lovett, Bob Mintzer, Paul Simon, David Sanborn, Terence Blanchard and scores of others. 

Michael Davis’ new recording is titled Open City. From the opening notes of “Hossland,” (with tremendous solos from Charles Pillow, Scott Wendholt and David Mann), waves of beauty, optimism, joy and hope surge from your speakers, potentially lifting you up, and washing away any worry, sorrow or pain . . . yes, it possesses a remarkably subtle potency, and, is in accord with the theme and aesthetic of this remarkable recording: Open City is a musical reflection on the inclusive, open nature of being a musician in post pandemic New York City. “The joy of being back performing live with other musicians, going into a studio to record our projects, sharing the challenges we all faced as performing artists and building back the business we all share so much passion for,” said Davis.

Open City marks Davis’ fourteenth album as a leader, and his sophomore recording fronting his acclaimed Hip-Bone Big Band. He has assembled a star-studded cast of New York City jazz and studio luminaries including Steve Wilson, David Mann, Andy Snitzer, Troy Roberts, Charles Pillow, Judy Lee, Mike Rodriguez, Scott Wendholt, Tony Kadleck, Marshall Gilkes, Ryan Keberle, Bill Reichenbach, Andy Ezrin, David Finck and Jared Schonig.

In addition to highlighting Davis’ rousing and dynamic sound as a player and writer, Open City showcases a unique family alliance with Davis’ eldest son Cole Davis penning three of the compositions (“Open City,” “Three and Out” & “Dark Horse”), and playing bass on four tracks, while Davis’ younger son Zaq Davis brings his talents to the trumpet section (on tracks 1, 4, 6, 7, 8). Cole Davis also co-produced the entire project with his dad and contributed the title track, which according to the older Davis, is, “definitely the strongest piece on the album.” 

Melody Gardot & Philippe Powell - Entre eux deux, The Paris Sessions

Following the celebrated success of 2022’s ‘Entre eux deux’, where  Melody Gardot joined forces with French-born, composer and pianist Philippe Powell (son of Baden Powell) for her first-ever studio album in duo, the pair are back with ‘Entre eux deux: The Paris Sessions’, which is an EP of four handpicked songs from the album, set with brand-new luscious string arrangements. 

There are four songs chosen for the EP by Powell and Gardot including the captivating ‘This Foolish Heart Could Love You’ described by Jazzwise as a “standard-in-the-making”, ‘Perhaps You’ll Wonder Why’, ‘Darling Fare Thee Well’  and ‘Samba Em Prelúdio’ a song that pays tribute to and revisits the legacy of Powell’s father (Brazilian composer/guitarist Baden Powell), proudly carrying the Franco-Brazilian torch lit so many years ago between celebrated artists Pierre Barouh, Vinicius de Moraes, and Baden Powell. The arrangements feel even more like “instant classics” thanks to the expertise of Alan Broadbent, renowned pianist, composer, and arranger, who has worked with some of the biggest names in jazz, including Charlie Haden, Diana Krall, and Natalie Cole. This stunning quartet lineup features members of the National Chamber Orchestra of Armenia (violinists Astghik Vardanyan and Gohar Papoyan and violist Astghik Gazhoyan) and Armenian-born musician and producer Artyom Manukyan on cello. The ensemble was also featured on Gardot’s most recent ‘Entre eux deux’ tour in 2022. 

"We're thrilled to be working with such an incredible team of musicians and collaborators," says Gardot. "We wanted to create something special for our fans to celebrate the one-year anniversary of ‘Entre eux deux’, and we couldn't be happier with the results. Press releases are boring. Just listen to it…"

Regarding the new collaboration, Powell explains, “In Paris, during the rehearsals the stunning musical encounter with these four incredible artists took place. They came from Yerevan, during a time when the Armenians were suffering the effects of a war that continues to this day. Yet, from the first notes played together, the songs we had written were suddenly reinvented with their hope, love, and strength. At each concert, this expression became deeper and the music was renewed. Through this recording, we had the chance to capture this musical communion. We hope it will touch your hearts...”

In addition to the release of her 6th studio album and first duo collaboration, 2022 saw Gardot receive the prestigious title of Chevalier in the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, France’s highest cultural accolade, and undertake an extensive run of live dates, including five sold out shows in Paris. This year, from June stretching into early 2024, Melody embarks on a global tour including multiple runs in North America and Europe. Full tour dates and tickets are available here.

‘Entre eux deux’ shines a spotlight on both artists in their lane as composers and performers, showcasing Gardot’s mellifluous vocals and Powell’s consummate piano technique and a seemingly telepathic connection between two distinctive musical voices. Now with the addition of rich string arrangements, ‘Entre eux deux: The Paris Sessions’ further illuminates the duos breathtaking collaboration.

New Music Releases: Acantha Lang; Marc Jordan; Nick Green; Sultan Stevenson

Acantha Lang - Beautiful Dreams

Over the last few short years, rising Robert Randolph collaborator Acantha Lang has swiftly become one of modern soul music’s best- kept secrets — building a dedicated fanbase through her “Standing On The Shoulders Of…” Soul series (currently over 9 million views across socials) where she honors past Stax and soul legends with spirited reimaginings of jukebox classics. So far, she’s earned widespread praise across BBC Radio, has earned over 1 million streams (and counting), and has been playlisted on top Spotify playlists including earning a spot on Spotify’s Best Retro Songs of 2021 and Best Funk Songs of 2022 playlist all without a debut album – until now. On June 30th, Lang will release her debut album ‘Beautiful Dreams’ a record that’s destined to propel her from an undiscovered gem into the pantheon of modern soul greats. With Acantha’s takes on Stax- inspired funk with Southern blues, she tells highly personal tales atop spirited, shimmering grooves. Acantha’s storytelling style harkens to age- old blues traditions while grounding itself in contemporary themes, delivering head- on lyrical attacks on fake news (the tell- all “He Said/ She Said”), odes to motherly love in the wake of Katrina’s disaster (the gripping “Lois Lang”), and celebrations of Black strength and womanhood with confidence and pride.

Marc Jordan - Waiting For The Sun To Rise

The heartfelt emotional centerpiece of Marc Jordan’s new album Waiting for the Sun To Rise is “Rio Grande,” a sweeping anthem which artfully blends sociopolitical commentary about America’s loss of innocence with personal lovelorn yearning. Featuring trumpet great Randy Brecker, and piano by co-produce Lou Pomanti, the song was co-written with Steven MacKinnon from the Art of Time jazz ensemble. Lyrically the song addresses the view from an experienced age, marvelling at how time passes quickly while many things stay the same: multiple tragedies of modern life with its gun violence, environmental disaster, and a sense of impending doom over the lack of clear solutions. But throughout there’s always hints of optimism and nostalgia to keep us sustained through challenging rainy days with glimpses of brighter daylight ahead. It has been called his Magnum Opus and a triumph of a recording from a world-class artist performing at the peak of his skills. “Rio Grande” can be found on any streaming service and on the Waiting For The Sun To Rise a;bum. Marc Jordan is a JUNO Award and Genie Award winner, and in 2019 was JUNO-nominated for his last album Both Sides. He is married to singer-songwriter Amy Sky, and in 2022, the duo recorded an JUNO-Award nominated album of duets entitled He Sang She Sang. 

Nick Green - Green On The Scene

Altoist Nick Green is in a mighty sharp group here – one that's tight enough to match the Charlie Parker energy of the leadoff track, but which then moves into more soulful territory that really gives the whole record a wonderful vibe! The great Joe Magnarelli is on trumpet in the frontline, sounding great next to Green as both players really seem to have a way of elevating each other – and Jeb Patton's piano provides these rich currents that take the the whole thing back to the feel of an old Riverside Records or Blue Note date – thanks to crackling energy from Mike Karn on bass and the great Kenny Washington on drums. Green's definitely going to be a player to keep our ears out for in years to come – and titles include "All The Things You Are", "Horizons", "Cheatin", "Tear & A Smile", "Barry", "You Krane", and "A Handful Of Stars". ~ Dusty Groove

Sultan Stevenson - Faithful One

A really beautiful record from London pianist Sultan Stevenson – a set that seems to hearken back to the wonderful 70s territory of McCoy Tyner, especially in the way that Sultan can balance a sense of subtle majesty with an undeniable flow! Half the record features a core trio – with Jacob Gryn on bass and Joel Waters on drums – but the other half of the set also brings in some superb horn work that really rises the righteous power of the record – trumpet from Josh Short and tenor from Denys Baptiste, playing together with a richly spiritual vibe. Titles include "He Has Made Me Whole", "Faithful One", "Safe Passage", "Prayer", "Guilt By Association", and "Summer Was Our Holy Place".  ~ Dusty Groove

Kat Hawley | "Keep On, Keepin' On"

‘Twas the night before Valentine’s Day and a pair of lovers were toiling away in the recording studio. He, twelve-time Billboard chart-topping guitarist Adam Hawley, and she, R&B-jazz singer Kat Hawley, were at opposite ends of the room ruminating on what has kept their marriage and romance going fifteen years. As Adam composed and began constructing an instrumental groove, Kat riffed on the secret to their relationship, jotting down the affirmation “Keep on, keepin’ on” in her lyric book. She alternately sang and scatted until the right words emerged from her heart to tell the story. By the time dawn arrived on St. Valentine’s Day, Kat’s debut single was written. 

“Keep On, Keepin’ On” is a soulful and cultured midtempo groove that provides a lush rhythmic pocket for Kat Hawley to emote atop. Her voice oozes genuine warmth, sensuality and passion in her lead and layered backgrounds. There’s a sense of both confidence as well as emotional vulnerability in her expressive delivery, qualities that make the single feel authentically real. Adam Hawley plays guitar, keyboards and programming while co-writer Caleb Middleton fills the track with additional keyboards, key bass and programming around drummer Eric Valentine’s beats. There’s another prominent voice featured on the single: the tenor saxophone of veteran hitmaker Steve Cole.

“I wanted some serious vibes with this tune, and I think we got it. ‘Keep On, Keepin’ On’ is a burst of excitement for me. Feeling something in your soul, hearing things in your mind, streams of subconsciousness throughout your dreams to now being able to touch it is amazing,” said Kat Hawley who has sung on all four of her husband’s albums. 

Landing a powerhouse saxman like Cole for your first single is definitely a benefit of being married to Adam yet Kat takes nothing for granted, conveying gratitude for Cole’s contribution to the recording.

“Something that I still am reeling from is having the one and only Steve Cole featured on the single. He has always stood out to me as a player and an artist. I am grateful that he agreed to be part of this project and for doing such an incredible job with it as well. You never know what to expect when you hand something over to someone. You hope that they can grasp the emotion and the vibe, and that they respect your creation. I appreciate that he took his time over several days to really listen and grasp what needed to be done. His performance is simply perfect. The warmth, the gentle aggressiveness and, of course, his impeccable playing. To have Steve graciously play on my first solo release is truly an honor,” said Kat Hawley who tours performing with Adam Hawley all over the world at concerts, festivals and star-studded music cruises and has sung or recorded with Dave Koz, Marcus Anderson, Greg Manning, Julian Vaughn and Marqueal Jordan amongst many others.

Kat Hawley is working on an album with Adam Hawley at the helm and she jokes that it could be a test of their relationship.

“I think Adam gets extra brownie points for producing me. I know I am not the easiest client. At one point during the recording, mixing and mastering stages, he said to me, ‘You’ve already exceeded my standard limit of edits per song.’ I responded with, ‘Another thing I want to fix is...’ We get a lot of laughs from one another. His creativity, mastery of the art and disciplined work ethic is something that I admire and respect, as I, too, share integrity for the artform. I am deeply blessed to have a partner who can bring out the best of my craft and support me like no other.”