Herb Alpert Closes Out Historic Tijuana Brass Tour with Homecoming Show at L.A.’s Dolby Theater on November 15

After a whirlwind run across North America, legendary musician, artist, and music executive Herb Alpert will close out his long-awaited Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass & Other Delights tour with a triumphant homecoming performance at the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles on November 15. 

This once-in-a-lifetime tour—Alpert’s first with a Tijuana Brass ensemble in over 40 years—celebrates the 60th anniversary of the iconic album Whipped Cream & Other Delights. The reimagined band features Bill Cantos (piano/marimba), Kerry Marx (guitars), Ray Brinker (drums), Kris Bergh (trumpet), Ryan Dragon (trombone), and Hussain Jiffry (bass), performing timeless hits like “The Lonely Bull,” “Spanish Flea,” “Taste of Honey,” and “Rise.”

Since launching in February, the tour has played to sold-out audiences in Boston, Detroit, Orlando, and Buffalo, with more full houses on the way.

On March 31, Alpert marked his 90th birthday with back-to-back sold-out performances at Jazz at Lincoln Center in NYC and a sit-down with CBS’s Anthony Mason airing Friday, April 25. That same day, fans can grab the newly remastered 60th Anniversary vinyl edition of Whipped Cream & Other Delights, featuring the original analog recordings pressed on 180-gram vinyl and a collectible picture disc.

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Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass & Other Delights – 2025 Tour Dates

• 05/11 – Grand Rapids, MI @ DeVos Performance Hall (low ticket alert)

• 05/12 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Byham Theater (sold out)

• 05/13 – Cincinnati, OH @ Taft Theatre (low ticket alert)

• 05/15 – Philadelphia, PA @ Miller Theater (low ticket alert)

• 05/16 – Tysons, VA @ Capitol One Hall (sold out)

• 06/19 – Salt Lake City, UT @ Capitol Theatre (sold out)

• 06/20 – Las Vegas, NV @ Encore Theater at the Wynn (sold out)

• 06/22 – Denver, CO @ Paramount Theatre

• 06/23 – Colorado Springs, CO @ Pikes Peak Center

• 08/01 – San Antonio, TX @ Tobin Center for the Arts

• 08/02 – Dallas, TX @ Winspear Opera House (low ticket alert)

• 08/03 – Oklahoma City, OK @ Rose State College Performing Arts Center

• 08/05 – Kansas City, MO @ The Kauffman Center (low ticket alert)

• 08/06 – St. Louis, MO @ Touhill PAC (sold out)

• 08/07 – Carmel, IN @ The Palladium (low ticket alert)

• 08/09 – Chicago, IL @ Harris Theater (sold out)

• 10/02 – Winnipeg, Canada @ TBA

• 10/03 – Minneapolis, MN @ TBA

• 10/05 – Sioux Falls, SD @ Washington Pavilion

• 10/06 – Milwaukee, WI @ Bradley Symphony Center

• 10/07 – Omaha, NE @ Holland Center

• 11/09 – Seattle, WA @ TBA

• 11/10 – Portland, OR @ TBA

• 11/12 – Santa Rosa, CA @ TBA

• 11/13 – Sacramento, CA @ TBA

• 11/15 – Los Angeles, CA @ Dolby Theater 🎉

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Alpert's journey through music and beyond has been nothing short of extraordinary. A 9-time GRAMMY® winner, he’s sold over 72 million records, won a Lifetime Achievement GRAMMY, been inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame, and received the National Medal of Arts from President Obama. In addition to his music career, he’s also a celebrated visual artist, with exhibitions worldwide, and the co-founder of A&M Records, which launched artists like Janet Jackson, The Police, and Sheryl Crow.

His philanthropic efforts through the Herb Alpert Foundation have transformed arts education for countless young creatives, including the Harlem School of the Arts and the prestigious Herb Alpert Award in the Arts, which celebrated its 30th anniversary last year.

Following the tour and album reissue, Alpert shows no signs of slowing down. With new album concepts already brewing, he continues to prove that his artistry—and his curiosity—are as boundless as ever.

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Michika Fukumori Channels Light and Optimism on New Album Eternity and a Day

With each release, pianist-composer Michika Fukumori continues to shine brighter in the global jazz firmament. On her fourth album, Eternity and a Day (due June 6 from Summit Records), Fukumori not only affirms her artistry but also reveals an even deeper layer of creative confidence and emotional clarity.

Marking a significant milestone in her career, Eternity and a Day is the first album for which her original compositions outnumber the standards—a bold step that reflects her growth not just as a composer, but also as a self-assured producer steering the entire project. Featuring a deeply attuned trio with bassist Steve Whipple and renowned drummer Adam Nussbaum, the record carries a spirit of hope, beauty, and purpose.

“While an ordinary day can feel eternal, its fleeting nature reminds us to cherish and live each day deeply,” Fukumori says. “This idea permeates the entire album, offering a message of embracing each moment with light in our hearts and a sense of purpose.”

The music itself is an extension of that sentiment. Original pieces like “Another Tomorrow,” “Our Future (Reiwa),” and “There Is Always Light” radiate optimism through elegant melodies and emotive interplay. The title track, a delicate yet profound meditation, sets the tone for the album’s central theme: presence, gratitude, and the gentle passing of time.

Tracks like “Acaso” bounce with a lively Brazilian flair, while “Port (The Departure)” and “The Light of Dawn” evoke fresh beginnings and the quiet thrill of renewal. Even the selected standards are thoughtfully curated to echo the album’s emotional palette: the effervescence of Fats Waller’s “Jitterbug Waltz,” the tender swoon of “Be My Love,” and the imaginative fusion of Chopin’s Prelude Op. 28, No. 4 with Jobim’s “How Insensitive.”

Fukumori’s classical background remains a guiding force. Born in Iga, Mie Prefecture, Japan, she began playing piano at age three and composing at six. Though she studied classical composition formally, her heart gravitated to jazz. After studying in Tokyo under pianist Colgen Suzuki, she moved to New York in 2000, where she was mentored by jazz greats Geri Allen, Ron Carter, and longtime teacher Steve Kuhn.

With a master’s degree from City College of New York, Fukumori became a fixture in the New York jazz scene, performing at venues like the Blue Note, Zinc Bar, and Jazz at Kitano, all while maintaining close ties with her fans in Japan through annual tours.

Her discography reflects a steady evolution. From her 2004 debut Infinite Thoughts, to 2016’s Quality Time, to 2018’s Piano Images, Fukumori has gradually increased her focus on original material. Now, Eternity and a Day completes that journey—highlighting her voice as a composer as much as her finesse as a pianist.

To celebrate the release, Fukumori will perform at several NYC venues:

• Sun. 5/4 & 5/18 – Arturo’s, solo (7–11 PM)

• Sat. 5/17 & 5/24 – Antique Garage Tribeca, trio (7–10 PM)

• Sun. 6/1, 6/22, & 6/29 – Arturo’s, solo (7–11 PM)

A Japan tour is also scheduled from August 21 to September 21.

With Eternity and a Day, Michika Fukumori offers more than music—she offers a reflective, radiant lens through which to view each day as sacred. In a world hungry for light, her piano provides it—gently, purposefully, and profoundly.

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Kimberly Brewer Honors Quincy Jones with Heavenly Cover of “If I Ever Lose This Heaven”

With reverence and soul, acclaimed R&B and jazz vocalist Kimberly Brewer pays tribute to the late, great Quincy Jones through a shimmering new rendition of his classic track, “If I Ever Lose This Heaven.” Produced by two-time GRAMMY® nominee Chris “Big Dog” Davis, the single features the elegant flute stylings of Billboard chart-topping artist Ragan Whiteside.

Originally recorded by Jones for his 1974 album Body Heat, the song remains an enduring gem of romantic jazz-soul fusion. Brewer’s inspired take emerged after her longtime friend and collaborator, jazz-funk bassist Byron Miller, introduced her to Davis’s reimagined track. When Jones passed away shortly after, Brewer felt a calling to lend her voice to this timeless piece as a tribute to the legendary composer-producer-arranger.

“I was a child when Q’s version came out but always recognized the emotions behind this love song and how beautifully it was written,” Brewer reflects. “Chris sent me the track and I loved his arrangement and the impeccable background vocals of Devin Tiana. It was an honor to sing my version of ‘If I Ever Lose This Heaven’ to honor Q. My only regret is that he never got to hear it.”

Chris Davis, familiar with Brewer’s unique blend of jazz, R&B, and soul, crafted a sensuous and richly textured arrangement with jazzy horns, velvety grooves, and a nostalgic yet modern flair. Drawing inspiration from the original, Davis invited Ragan Whiteside to contribute her signature flute—a sonic nod to the classic intro that opened Jones’s version.

The result is a lush, dreamy soundscape where Brewer’s lead and backing vocals float effortlessly alongside Whiteside’s soulful flute lines. The chemistry between their performances creates a celestial harmony that not only honors Jones’s legacy but breathes new life into the track for a new generation.

The influential soul music platform SoulTracks premiered the single in their First Listen feature, praising Brewer’s work:

“Lo and behold, we have a slick cover of ‘If I Ever Lose This Heaven’ from Stevie Wonder backing vocalist Kimberly Brewer… Having Brewer embrace this Quincy Jones masterpiece is the moment that today’s jazz and adult R&B lovers have long waited for.”

The original song was written by the late Leon Ware and Pamela Sawyer, and famously featured vocals from Ware, Minnie Riperton, and Al Jarreau. Brewer’s personal connection to Ware—whom she met through vocalist Lynne Fiddmont—added another layer of meaning to this heartfelt remake.

“Leon invited me to his studio, and it was amazing hearing the music he was working on. He had such a gift,” Brewer shared.

A seasoned vocalist with an elite résumé, Kimberly Brewer has recorded and toured with some of music’s most celebrated names including Stevie Wonder, Elton John, Teena Marie, Rick James, Vanessa Williams, Will Downing, and Earth, Wind & Fire. Her 2020 EP Just That Sweet To Me featured Wonder, Walter Beasley, and JOE, among others. This summer, she will release a new EP titled Tasting Sunshine, executive produced by Miller and featuring collaborations with Mark Kibble (Take 6) and Gerald Albright.

With “If I Ever Lose This Heaven”, Kimberly Brewer does more than reinterpret a classic—she offers a loving, musical benediction to one of the greatest minds in music history. It’s not just a cover; it’s a spiritual tribute, delivered with passion, precision, and pure heart.

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Alan Pasqua Finds Solitude and Truth on New Hope

Alan Pasqua has long been a quietly powerful force in jazz — a pianist, composer, educator, and collaborator whose artistry has touched everything from jazz fusion and classical to pop, rock, and film. With New Hope, his latest solo piano album released via Blue Canoe Records, Pasqua strips away every layer except one: the pure sound of a master at the keys, playing exactly what he feels.

New Hope is not a concept album or a technical showcase. It’s a deeply personal meditation — reflective, spacious, and unhurried. “This is simply the music I wanted to make right now,” Pasqua explains. In that understatement lies the essence of the record. Recorded with the intimacy and clarity that only solo piano allows, the album invites listeners into the artist’s creative space, where melody, memory, and emotion all speak through the same voice.

A Steinway Artist, Grammy nominee, and Professor of Jazz Studies at USC’s Thornton School of Music, Pasqua brings a lifetime of musical experience to this recording. The album features original compositions — the hopeful title track “New Hope,” the contemplative “Agrodolce,” the lyrical “The Folks,” and the meditative “Contemplation” — all delivered with Pasqua’s trademark restraint and sensitivity.

Interwoven with these originals are intimate reinterpretations of beloved jazz standards: “There’s a Small Hotel,” “Our Love Is Here to Stay,” “Lullaby of Birdland,” and Ellington’s haunting “Star Crossed Lovers.” In each, Pasqua finds fresh emotional depth without ever straying from their essence.

Pasqua’s musical résumé is vast — from playing with Tony Williams at Carnegie Hall to recording with Bob Dylan, Aretha Franklin, Ray Charles, and Elton John, from co-composing the CBS Evening News theme to crafting improvisations for Bob Dylan’s Nobel Prize acceptance speech. His versatility is legendary, but New Hope stands out for its vulnerability. It’s just Pasqua, a piano, and the truth of the moment.

This release follows a string of critically acclaimed solo and ensemble albums including Twin Bill, Northern Lights, Day Dream, and the Grammy-nominated Standards with Peter Erskine and Dave Carpenter. But New Hope feels like a quiet turning point — a return to the center.

In a world of noise and spectacle, Alan Pasqua has offered something rare: stillness, honesty, and profound musical intimacy.

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Mira Choquette’s Hier Encore: A Jazz Album for Grownups

Mira Choquette’s voice has always had a kind of magnetic subtlety—warm, expressive, and rich with quiet intensity. On her new album Hier Encore, the multilingual vocalist delivers perhaps her most personal and mature recording yet. This is a jazz album that doesn’t shout—it leans in, reflects, and invites you to do the same.

Recorded in Armenia, Hier Encore finds Choquette in intimate musical dialogue with acclaimed Armenian jazz pianist Samvel Gasparyan, whose sensitive playing forms the emotional backbone of the album. Most tracks are spare, thoughtful duets, allowing Choquette’s vocal nuances and Gasparyan’s lyrical phrasing to shine in full. On select pieces, they’re joined by a seasoned rhythm section: bassist Dave Geodakyan (also a respected conductor and educator) and drummer Arman Mnatsakanyan, best known for his work with Tigran Hamasyan. A special highlight is the track “Just Friends,” featuring three of Yerevan’s top horn players, adding a brassy jolt of swing to an otherwise introspective album.

The repertoire on Hier Encore is as refined as the performances themselves. Choquette reimagines works by Michel Legrand, Charles Aznavour, Tadd Dameron, Thelonious Monk, Blossom Dearie, and Armando Manzanero—a tasteful blend of American and international jazz traditions. She moves gracefully between languages—English, French, and Spanish—with three tracks in French and a standout rendition of Manzanero’s “Contigo Aprendí” sung in Spanish.

Highlights include the hauntingly tender “If You Could See Me Now,” an elegant take on Monk’s ballad “Reflections,” and the aching nostalgia of Aznavour’s “Hier Encore (Yesterday When I Was Young),” from which the album takes its title. A bit of swing enters the scene with “Just Friends” and Blossom Dearie’s sly “Long Daddy Green,” offering a touch of playful contrast to the otherwise melancholic mood.

Following her earlier releases—Something Cool, the EP It Felt Like A Fall Affair, and In Reel Time—Hier Encore marks a new chapter in Choquette’s artistry. It’s thoughtful, quietly emotive, and deeply felt.

“Recording in Armenia with these amazing players was a great experience,” Choquette says. “The wet weather, the culture, and the atmosphere lent itself to melancholy songs and resulted in what I like to call a jazz album for grownups.”

Whether you're a longtime fan or discovering her for the first time, Hier Encore is worth a close listen. It's an album to sit with, to return to, and to feel your way through.

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Rediscovering a Baritone Jazz Gem: Serge Chaloff’s Blue Serge Gets the Tone Poet Treatment

Release Date: June 6, 2025
Format: 180g Mono Vinyl (Tone Poet Audiophile Vinyl Series)

Jazz fans, collectors, and audiophiles alike will want to take note: Blue Serge, the essential 1956 recording from baritone saxophone great Serge Chaloff, is receiving a deluxe reissue as part of Blue Note's celebrated Tone Poet Vinyl Series.

Though often overlooked in the pantheon of bebop legends, Chaloff was a pioneering voice on the baritone sax—agile, lyrical, and deeply expressive. A Boston native and early member of Woody Herman’s iconic “Four Brothers” saxophone section alongside Stan Getz and Zoot Sims, Chaloff’s career was marked by both brilliance and instability. But in 1954, following personal setbacks, he returned to the studio with a renewed fire, producing two landmark records for Capitol: Boston Blow-Up! and Blue Serge.

Blue Serge is widely regarded as Chaloff’s defining work. Recorded with a crack quartet featuring Sonny Clark (piano), Leroy Vinnegar (bass), and Philly Joe Jones (drums), the album is a masterclass in cool, cohesive interplay. The 7-track set includes timeless standards like “A Handful of Stars” and “All The Things You Are,” as well as Chaloff’s own composition, “Susie’s Blues.”

This Tone Poet Edition brings the album to life in stunning fidelity. Mastered from the original analog tapes by Kevin Gray at Cohearent Audio, pressed on 180g vinyl at Record Technology Inc., and packaged in a deluxe tip-on jacket, this is the definitive version of Blue Serge—a high watermark for both jazz reissues and audiophile listening.

Tracklist

Side A

1. A Handful Of Stars

2. The Goof And I

3. Thanks For The Memory

4. All The Things You Are

Side B

1. I've Got The World On A String

2. Susie’s Blues

3. Stairway To The Stars

That Sweet Sweet Music – Curated by Paul Weller

If you’re a soul music fan who craves more than just the usual classics, That Sweet Sweet Music is your next essential listen. Curated by none other than Paul Weller – the legendary frontman of The Jam and Style Council – this compilation dives deep into the soulful sounds that shaped his musical journey.

Released by the ever-reliable UK label Ace Records, this CD is a loving tribute to vintage soul, funk, and Northern Soul from the 1960s and ’70s. Weller personally handpicked every track, carefully digging through crates to bring together a rich mix of rare grooves and overlooked gems. This isn’t your typical greatest-hits package — it’s a heartfelt mix tape from one music lover to another.

Expect to be blown away by lesser-known tracks like:

• “Spanish Twist” – The IB Special

• “Pull My String” – The Joneses

• “You Got To Have Money” – The Exits

• “Search For The Inner Self” – Jon Lucien

• “Blackrock” – Blackrock

• “Hard Times” – Baby Huey

• “In The Bottle” – Brother To Brother

• “Black Balloons” – Syl Johnson

...and so many more, spanning deep soul, sweet soul, funk, and even a touch of psychedelic groove. The CD also includes track-by-track liner notes packed with context, making it a soulful history lesson as much as a sonic journey.

This compilation isn’t just a playlist — it’s Paul Weller opening up his musical diary.

Sabeth Pérez Embarks on a Lyrical Journey with Searching for Beauty

New album out June 1, 2025

Vocalist and composer Sabeth Pérez has long been recognized for her crystalline voice, genre-defying musicality, and her ability to fuse jazz with South American folk traditions. On Searching for Beauty, her most personal and profound statement to date, Pérez invites listeners into a meditative exploration of presence, memory, and grace. The album will be released worldwide on June 1, 2025.

A fluid mix of Argentine folkloric rhythms, impressionistic harmonies, and jazz improvisation, Searching for Beauty is more than a collection of songs—it’s an invitation to slow down and discover the poetry hidden in everyday moments.

“Her bell-like voice creates lyrical imagery.” – Jazzthetik
“The crystal clear timbre of Pérez’s voice floats and dances.” – All About Jazz
“A virtuosic singer has arrived.” – Shara Nova

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A Sound Both Timeless and Forward-Thinking

Following standout collaborations with the WDR Big Band, Frankfurt Radio Big Band, EOS Chamber Orchestra, and artists such as Billy Childs and Ingrid Jensen, Pérez now presents a project that is wholly her own. Searching for Beauty reimagines folkloric textures through a modern lens, crafting a sound that is at once rooted and transcendent.

“Sabeth’s ensembles display a rich bouquet of harmonies and arrangement concepts, brought to life by intuition and skill.” – Jazzthing

With compositions by Pérez and collaborators including Gabriel Pérez and Jon Cowherd, the album draws listeners into a world of nuanced emotion, spiritual reflection, and intimate storytelling.

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A Message in Stillness

At the heart of Searching for Beauty lies a deep artistic and philosophical message. “I see it as my everlasting duty to spend my life searching for beauty,” Pérez writes. “Beauty to absorb my mind. Solace in the thought this is not caused (but just is).”

The album is an ode to impermanence, to nature’s quiet endurance, and to the gentle clarity that emerges when we pause to reflect. As Pérez describes, “This album is more than music—it’s an invitation. To listen deeply. To see beauty in what’s fleeting. To hold on to moments of light, however brief.”

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An All-Star Ensemble

Joining Pérez on this sonic journey is an exceptional lineup of musicians:

• Ingrid Jensen – trumpet

• Nicola Caminiti – saxophone

• Gabriel Pérez – flute/saxophone

• Charles Altura – guitar

• Jon Cowherd – piano

• Ben Tiberio – bass

• Keita Ogawa – percussion, drums

• Martin Bruhn – percussion (track 10)

• Henry Cole – drums (select tracks)

The ensemble’s synergy provides a rich and dynamic backdrop for Pérez’s radiant voice and evocative compositions.

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Track Listing:

1. Familiar

2. Dream Boat

3. Nos Da

4. Eco (lyrics by Jorge Luis Borges)

5. Reconciliation

6. Convertidos en Perfume Intro

7. Convertidos en Perfume

8. Petrichor

9. Peripheral Visions

10. Wayra

11. Si Pudiera Vivir Nuevamente Mi Vida (lyrics by Don Herold)

12. Yearning to Punish

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“Sabeth Pérez is a stellar musician whose endless possibilities land her in a rich wheelhouse with endless places to explore... Her music leads to clarity, peace, harmony, and beauty.” – Ingrid Jensen

“Beautiful! Wonderfully composed, structured, recorded, and performed. Bravo!” – Billy Childs

Mark Masters Reimagines the Music of Billy Harper and Sam Rivers on Two Powerful New Albums

Two bold new releases from arranger Mark Masters pay tribute to saxophone visionaries Billy Harper and Sam Rivers, highlighting their distinct musical legacies through inventive orchestrations and dynamic ensemble performances. Sam Rivers 100 and Dance, Eternal Spirits, Dance! will be released June 6, 2025, on Masters' longtime label, Capri Records. Both albums feature Harper as guest soloist, bringing his unmistakable voice to the fore.

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Celebrating Sam Rivers and Billy Harper

On Sam Rivers 100, Masters commemorates the 100th birthday of avant-garde trailblazer Sam Rivers by diving into material from Rivers’ early Blue Note period, particularly the 1964 classic Fuchsia Swing Song. The album evolved from a 2023 concert series and includes arrangements of all six tracks from that debut album, plus additional selections performed by a chamber-sized version of the Mark Masters Ensemble.

Meanwhile, Dance, Eternal Spirits, Dance! explores Harper’s powerful and melodic catalog, spanning works written between 1972 and 2000. Known for his singular compositional voice, Harper’s music is treated with deep reverence and fresh perspective by Masters, whose orchestrations retain the spiritual force at the heart of Harper’s work.

“Each of [Harper’s] compositions is so different from the others. He doesn’t compose from a formula, so each of his tunes has a very distinct personality.” – Mark Masters

These projects reflect not only the contrasting styles of Rivers and Harper—Rivers with skeletal frameworks inviting improvisation; Harper with defined structures and deep melodic roots—but also the brilliance of Masters as an arranger capable of honoring both.

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A Longstanding Creative Partnership

Masters' association with Harper goes back to 1990’s Priestess, his debut on Capri Records. Over the past 35 years, Masters has produced 15 albums with the Denver-based label, known for its support of jazz composers and arrangers.

“Billy Harper is a longtime hero of mine,” Masters explains. “He is a very gifted composer whose music is singular, and I also love his playing.”

Capri Records founder Tom Burns adds, “Mark and I have similar tastes in almost everything, but most importantly the music. He has a unique voice and never ceases to surprise me with his creativity.”

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Ensemble Highlights

Sam Rivers 100 features a leaner lineup from the 13-piece ensemble and includes two fully improvised tracks that reflect Rivers’ freer inclinations. Dance, Eternal Spirits, Dance! expands to a 17-piece orchestra with appearances by pianist Francesca Tanksley and trumpeter Tim Hagans—both longtime collaborators of Harper and Masters respectively.

Each album reveals different compositional and interpretative challenges. With Rivers, Masters restructured melodies and chord changes into larger forms, while Harper’s music required orchestrations that complemented his deeply written frameworks.

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Mark Masters: Arranger, Educator, Visionary

Mark Masters has spent more than four decades shaping modern big band music with tributes to Dewey Redman, Clifford Brown, Jimmy Knepper, and others. He founded the non-profit American Jazz Institute and has collaborated with top-tier musicians including Gary Smulyan, Peter Erskine, Steve Kuhn, and Oliver Lake.

His recent projects include Sui Generis, a trumpet concerto for Tim Hagans; Masters & Baron Meet Blanton & Webster with Art Baron; and Blue Skylight, reinterpreting music by Mingus and Mulligan.

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Album Info

Mark Masters Ensemble featuring Billy Harper
Sam Rivers 100
Capri Records – Capri 74173 – Recorded October 16, 2023

Dance, Eternal Spirits, Dance!
Capri Records – Capri 74176 – Recorded July 26, 2024

Release Date: June 6, 2025

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Azymuth Announce New Album Marca Passo + Share First Single “Andaraí” European, UK & North American Tour Dates Confirmed for 2025

In the ever-evolving landscape of global music, few names resonate with such lasting influence as Azymuth. Marking the 50th anniversary of their groundbreaking 1975 debut Azimuth, the Brazilian jazz-funk pioneers are set to release their new album Marca Passo on June 6, 2025. The announcement arrives with the release of their hypnotic lead single, "Andaraí".

Marca Passo was recorded in Rio de Janeiro and represents a deeply personal and powerful evolution of the band’s iconic sound. It’s their first full-length project since the passing of legendary drummer Ivan "Mamão" Conti in 2023 and keyboardist José Roberto Bertrami in 2012. Bassist and founding member Alex Malheiros remains the group’s driving force, joined by longtime collaborator Kiko Continentino on keyboards and new drummer Renato Massa.

The album is produced by Daniel Maunick, who also helmed their acclaimed Fênix (2016) and Aurora (2011) albums. Known for his work with artists like Marcos Valle, Sabrina Malheiros, and Terry Callier, Maunick brings his signature blend of analog warmth and forward-thinking production to this new chapter in Azymuth’s storied career.

Marca Passo will be available in limited edition blue, red, and black vinyl, as well as on CD and digital platforms. 

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2025 Tour Dates

Europe

• May 7 – Het Bos, Antwerp, Belgium

• May 8 – Reflektor, Liège, Belgium

• May 10 – Jassmine, Warsaw, Poland

• May 13 – Stadtgarten Köln, Cologne, Germany

• May 14 – Korjaamo Culture Factory, Helsinki, Finland

• May 16 – Fasching, Stockholm, Sweden

• May 17 – Kunstverein Familie Montez, Frankfurt, Germany

• May 19 – Bremen Teater, Copenhagen, Denmark

• May 21 – Musicbox, Lisbon, Portugal

UK

• May 23 – Norwich Arts Centre, Norwich

• May 25 – Jazz Cafe, London

• May 27 – Room 2, Glasgow

North America

• June 20 – Amsterdam Bar & Hall, St. Paul, MN

• June 21 – Shank Hall, Milwaukee, WI

• June 22 – Lincoln Hall, Chicago, IL

• June 24 – Pyramid Scheme, Grand Rapids, MI

• June 26 – Lee’s Palace, Toronto, ON

• June 27 – Montréal Jazz Festival, Montréal, QC

• June 28 – Follow The Arrow, Palenville, NY

• June 29 – Sony Hall, New York, NY

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Marca Passo is not just a tribute to Azymuth’s legacy—it’s a celebration of their continued evolution. With a new lineup, a revitalized sound, and live shows across three continents, Azymuth once again proves why their cosmic samba remains in a league of its own.

Milena Casado’s Reflection of Another Self: A Bold Jazz Debut Rooted in Identity and Innovation

With her debut album Reflection of Another Self, Spanish trumpeter and composer Milena Casado delivers a fearless and emotionally charged introduction to the modern jazz landscape. Co-produced with drummer and activist Terri Lyne Carrington and multi-instrumentalist Morgan Guerin, the record seamlessly blends ethereal electronic textures with virtuosic improvisation to explore themes of identity, trauma, and transformation.

Casado’s music moves with intention. Drawing from the spirit of Miles Davis while expanding into new sonic territory, she crafts a deeply personal sound—fluid, expressive, and unapologetically honest. Through sampled conversations, textured soundscapes, and layered horns, Reflection of Another Self examines the tensions between vulnerability and empowerment, fear and resilience.

Born and raised in Spain, Casado’s experiences as a Black woman navigating predominantly white spaces have shaped her artistry. Music became her refuge, her language, and eventually her platform. She earned a scholarship to Berklee College of Music, where she studied with jazz legends like Carrington and Jack DeJohnette, later building a reputation on the New York jazz scene for her emotionally rich performances and compositional voice.

The album is a true collaborative effort. It features contributions from harpist Brandee Younger, flutist Nicole Mitchell, pianist Kris Davis, and bassist Meshell Ndegeocello, among others, while her core ensemble holds the emotional center of the project. Casado’s arrangements provide space for exploration, giving each musician room to express, respond, and elevate the material.

Highlights include the opening track “THIS IS MY HAIR (!),” a defiant and deeply personal meditation on cultural identity and beauty standards. “Lidia y Los Libros” pays homage to Casado’s mother and her love of literature. “O.C.T (Oda To The Crazy Times)” and “Circles” push rhythmic and harmonic boundaries, blending acoustic jazz with experimental electronic elements to capture moments of chaos, reflection, and clarity.

What makes Reflection of Another Self so compelling is its intimacy. Casado invites listeners into her inner world—not just through her horn, but through spoken words, samples, and layered storytelling. Each piece functions as a chapter in a narrative that’s both personal and universal.

With critical recognition from The New York Times and performances at major festivals and institutions already under her belt, Milena Casado is not just a promising new voice—she’s a vital force in the evolution of contemporary jazz. Reflection of Another Self is a bold and necessary debut from an artist poised to leave a lasting imprint.

Yves Brouqui's Mean What You Say: A Jazz Album That Lives Up to Its Name

For his SteepleChase debut, Mean What You Say, French guitarist Yves Brouqui delivers a straight-ahead jazz album that is both timeless and personal. Blending the rhythmic soul of American modern jazz with the refined touch of Parisian cool, Brouqui presents a confident and mature voice—one that swings hard, listens closely, and speaks with intention.

Recorded in March 2024 in New York City, Mean What You Say features a world-class rhythm section: pianist Spike Wilner, bassist Paul Gill, and drummer Anthony Pinciotti. Together with Brouqui, the trio creates a dynamic yet intimate atmosphere, grounded in post-bop tradition but brought to life with sharp precision and emotional depth.

Though Brouqui has long split his time between Paris and New York, this record isn’t a cross-cultural pastiche—it’s pure straight-ahead jazz. His tone is warm and articulate. His solos, lyrical and uncluttered, call to mind players like Wes Montgomery, Jim Hall, and Joe Pass—not in imitation, but in spirit. Brouqui’s voice is fully his own: clear, seasoned, and deliberate.

Brouqui honed his craft in the Paris jazz circuit—playing at legendary venues such as Duc des Lombards and Sunset—and later deepened his artistry in the jazz clubs of New York. Over the years, he’s performed alongside jazz greats like Steve Grossman, Peter Bernstein, Emmanuel Bex, and Joe Magnarelli. That experience shows. Mean What You Say is not a debut in spirit, even if it marks his first project with SteepleChase. It’s a confident, thoughtful statement from a player who knows exactly what he wants to say—and says it with elegance.

The album’s repertoire leans into the post-bop idiom, with swinging tempos, blues-infused moments, and melodic sophistication. But what sets it apart is the effortless interplay between musicians. The group moves as one, capturing the essence of a conversation more than a performance. Brouqui leads not by force, but through feel, giving space for the music to breathe.

With previous projects that include tributes to Horace Silver and collaborations with gypsy jazz violinist Florin Niculescu, Brouqui has shown a wide range of interests, always anchored in deep respect for tradition. Mean What You Say continues that thread—rooted in the lineage of jazz guitar, yet unmistakably his own.

For listeners craving authentic, straight-ahead jazz with heart, clarity, and craft, Mean What You Say is a standout release—one that affirms Yves Brouqui as a voice worth hearing.

Dusty Springfield’s Long-Lost Masterpiece Finally Arrives on Vinyl

In the early 1970s, Dusty Springfield—a powerhouse vocalist best known for her blend of British soul and pop—relocated from England to Los Angeles, seeking fresh inspiration and new opportunities. She signed with ABC/Dunhill Records and released the 1973 album Cameo, a sophisticated and emotionally resonant record that, despite showcasing her iconic sound, didn’t gain the commercial traction it deserved outside of the Billboard Adult Contemporary charts.

For her next project, Dusty took a different route—both creatively and geographically. In 1974, she traveled to New York City to work with producer Brooks Arthur, known for his work with Phil Spector and many of the era’s girl group luminaries. This time around, the sound leaned into the 1970s singer-songwriter aesthetic. Arthur curated a set of deeply introspective and moving songs written by artists including Janis Ian (“In the Winter”), Melissa Manchester & Carole Bayer Sager (“Home to Myself”), Colin Blunstone (“Exclusively for Me”), Stephen Schwartz (“Corner of the Sky”), Chi Coltrane (“Turn Me Around”), and Barry Manilow (“I Am Your Child”).

Many of the writers joined the sessions, playing keys on their own songs at Arthur’s 911 Studios. Even Bruce Springsteen was known to drop by in admiration. These sessions captured Dusty’s voice at its most emotionally raw and artistically refined.

However, despite the quality of the material and the strength of her performances, Dusty was grappling with emotional exhaustion and a growing sense of professional uncertainty. As a result, the album was shelved, and she parted ways with ABC/Dunhill before its completion. A few of the songs were revisited during her later stint with United Artists, but most remained unheard by the public.

That changed in 2001 when nine of the tracks resurfaced as part of a CD anthology of Dusty’s ABC/Dunhill work. Now, over 50 years after the original sessions, the complete album finally makes its debut on vinyl—with all ten tracks, including a new solo mix of “Corner of the Sky,” previously only available as a duet with Petula Clark.

This dual CD and vinyl release features new mixes of eight songs and comes with vintage artwork, rare images, and detailed track-by-track notes by Dusty biographer Paul Howes. The vinyl is pressed on eco-conscious PET black plastic, combining sustainability with a long-overdue celebration of Springfield’s brilliance.

Tracklist:

Side One

1. Turn Me Around

2. In the Winter

3. Exclusively for Me

4. A Love Like Yours

5. I Am Your Child

Side Two

1. Home to Myself

2. Make the Man Love Me

3. Beautiful Soul

4. Angels

5. Corner of the Sky

From the haunting melancholy of “In the Winter” to the spirited soul of “Turn Me Around” and the tender optimism of “Home to Myself,” this collection offers a portrait of an artist at the height of her interpretive power, even while facing personal crossroads. It is both a time capsule and a revelation—showing us once again why Dusty Springfield remains one of the most compelling vocalists in pop history.

Veteran Tenor Saxophonist Jed Levy to Release 11th Album Faces and Places

Known for his rich tone and deeply informed improvisation, saxophonist and composer Jed Levy returns with Faces and Places, his 11th album as a leader, set for release on April 25, 2025 via A Life in Music Records. With a four-decade presence on the New York City jazz scene, Levy has long been regarded as a “modern master,” praised for both his original compositions and commanding saxophone work.

Faces and Places features 12 original tracks, each one offering a glimpse into Levy’s life through a variety of musical vignettes, from introspective ballads to high-energy grooves.

Over the course of his career, Levy has toured globally—from Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Rhythm Road Program in South and Central America to a 16-city run through China and numerous appearances across Europe. He has released ten prior albums as a leader, eight of them on SteepleChase, and has appeared as a sideman on more than 40 recordings. His collaborators have included jazz legends such as Jaki Byard, Jack McDuff, Chico O'Farrill, Jack Walrath, and Peter Leitch, as well as top-tier rhythm sections featuring Marvin “Smitty” Smith, Geoffrey Keezer, John Hicks, George Cables, Ray Drummond, and more.

According to The Penguin Guide to Jazz, "Levy's broad-shouldered tone and confident delivery give him the kind of full-on swing one associates with an earlier generation, but he's soaked in bebop and hard-bop practice."

The Band

On Faces and Places, Levy is joined by a stellar lineup of long-time collaborators and NYC heavyweights:

• Luis Perdomo, piano (Tom Harrell, Miguel Zenón, Ravi Coltrane)

• Peter Slavov, bass (Joe Lovano, Quincy Jones, Paul Winter)

• Alvester Garnett, drums (Abbey Lincoln, Betty Carter, Regina Carter)

After a series of live dates in New York, the chemistry among the quartet inspired Levy to bring the music into the studio. The result is a collection of compositions with strong melodies, modern voicings, and room for each player’s unique voice to shine.

The Music

Each track on Faces and Places tells a story:

• “Email”: Inspired by the AOL inbox chime, this track journeys from a rubato intro to Afro-Cuban grooves and a rock-infused finale—symbolizing the range of emotions email messages can trigger.

• “Danza de Berrios”: A tribute to the late drummer Steve Berrios, featuring rhythms passed down to Garnett directly by Berrios.

• “Calcata”: Named after a mysterious Italian village, the tune captures its enigmatic charm through a haunting slow groove.

• “Twiddle Twaddle”: A playful homage to a friend in Rome, full of lively chatter and musical banter.

• “Coming to Terms”: A ballad about acceptance and resilience, blending jazz harmony with a singer-songwriter sensibility.

• “Saint Simons”: A straight-ahead swinger dedicated to a serene island getaway off the Georgia coast.

• “Personable”: Influenced by West Indian rhythms and 70s fusion, it contains a hidden melodic quote that remains undiscovered by listeners.

• “Tenerife”: Inspired by a planned vacation to the Canary Islands, cut short by volcanic activity.

• “Leading Tone”: Built on a counter-melody between bass and sax, the solo sections break free from the tune’s form.

• “Haiku”: Modeled after the five-syllable structure of Japanese poetry, using restraint and elegance to powerful effect.

• “Partido Tenor”: A playful nod to Brazil’s partido alto rhythm, filtered through Levy’s melodic and harmonic language.

• “Postscript”: A reflective album closer that recalls “Email”’s motif but with new rhythmic and harmonic framing.

A Complete Artistic Statement

From bebop to Afro-Cuban rhythms, West Indian grooves to introspective jazz ballads, Faces and Places encapsulates Jed Levy’s range as a composer and bandleader. His music is sophisticated yet accessible, rooted in tradition but with a forward-looking vision. This album is essential listening for anyone passionate about contemporary jazz with depth, soul, and substance.

Watch:

Jed Levy talks about Faces and Places in his "Living Liner Notes"

The 45th Festival International de Jazz de Montréal: A Celebration of Legacy, Innovation, and Global Groove

The city of Montréal is once again set to become the global capital of jazz as the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal (FIJM) unveils its complete program for its landmark 45th edition, taking place from June 26 to July 5, 2025. Presented by TD Bank Group in collaboration with Rio Tinto, this year’s festival promises to be one of the most ambitious, inclusive, and celebratory editions to date.

With over 350 concerts, two-thirds of which are completely free, FIJM 2025 will immerse downtown Montréal in a vibrant spectrum of musical styles rooted in jazz while boldly stretching its boundaries. From legends and Grammy winners to genre-defying newcomers, this 10-day celebration is a testament to the power of jazz to evolve, inspire, and unite.

A Musical Lineup that Crosses Generations and Borders

The 2025 edition is anchored by major headliners such as Nas, the iconic hip-hop figure whose lyrical prowess changed the game, and rising Afro-pop star Ayra Starr, whose meteoric rise represents the global fusion of contemporary sound and cultural heritage.

Jazz purists and contemporary music lovers alike will find plenty to savor. Highlights include:

• Dianne Reeves, the legendary American jazz vocalist, returning to Théâtre Maisonneuve.

• Mon Laferte, the Chilean-Mexican sensation, gracing the Salle Wilfrid-Pelletier stage.

• Bonobo, British DJ and master of atmospheric electronic-jazz fusion at MTELUS.

• Esperanza Spalding, the first jazz musician to win the Grammy for Best New Artist, performing on the TD Stage.

• Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, bringing New Orleans funk and high energy to the outdoor stage.

This year’s program shines in its ability to blend the local with the international. Montréal talents like Elisapie, Salin, and Tyreek McDole will stand alongside globally acclaimed acts such as The Sun Ra Arkestra, Camille Thurman, Isaiah Collier, and BALTHVS.

Oscar Peterson Centennial: Honoring a Jazz Titan

A key theme of this year’s festival is the Oscar Peterson Centennial, commemorating what would have been the 100th birthday of the legendary Montréal-born pianist. A series of special tributes and events will honor his legacy, including:

• Oscar Peterson Centennial Gala: Canadiana Suite, performed at Maison symphonique.

• Montreal Thanks OP Concert, a free show featuring the Oscar Peterson Centennial Quartet.

• “Through Oscar’s Lens”, a compelling outdoor photography exhibition featuring rare images taken by Peterson himself.

• A special screening of the film Oscar Peterson: Black + White at Cinéma du Parc.

• An exclusive vinyl release, Oscar Peterson Live at the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal, available only at the Festival and during the commemorative tour.

Rising Stars and Fan Favorites

FIJM is also renowned for showcasing future stars. In 2025, keep an eye on:

• Samara Joy, whose talent has taken her from Festival newcomer to household name.

• Tyreek McDole, opening for Jeff Goldblum & The Mildred Snitzer Orchestra, bringing youthful energy and soulful depth.

• Yasmin Williams, the genre-blurring guitar phenom known for her NPR Tiny Desk performance.

• Tommy Emmanuel, world-renowned Australian guitar virtuoso.

For more adventurous listeners, the Festival recommends Clown Core, a mysterious duo blending jazz, grindcore, and electronica, and Nate Smith collaborating with Lalah Hathaway, James Francies, and Derrick Hodge for a one-time supergroup performance.

Cinema, Culture & Community

Beyond the stages, the Festival will offer:

• A film series celebrating jazz greats, including screenings of In Cold Blood, The Wiz, and The Color Purple as part of a tribute to Quincy Jones.

• The return of the PHONO pop-up bar, featuring curated DJ sets and immersive nightlife.

• Académie sessions, providing in-depth artist interviews, live performances, and musical masterclasses.

• Ongoing surprises yet to be announced, keeping the anticipation alive through the coming weeks.

A City That Swings with Jazz

As always, the Festival thrives through partnerships that bring the vision to life. FIJM extends thanks to TD Bank Group (celebrating 15 years as presenting sponsor), Rio Tinto, Rogers, Molson, Uber, SAQ, Lavazza, Le Groupe Maurice, and various levels of government including Canadian Heritage, the Canada Council for the Arts, and the City of Montréal.

Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or a curious newcomer, the 45th edition of the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal offers an unparalleled opportunity to discover the soul of jazz and its many modern evolutions.

Mark Your Calendar

Festival Dates: June 26 – July 5, 2025