Isaac Hayes - Hot Buttered Singles Vol. 2

Take a deep dive into the music of one of soul's greatest legends, Isaac Hayes, with Hot Buttered Singles Vol. 2. This collection features shorter, 7" single versions of Hayes' tracks from 1972 to 1976, capturing his evolution from his soulful roots to his funky, dancefloor-ready sound. Compiled by the folks at Ace Records, this CD showcases some key moments in Hayes’ career, spanning his last years at Stax Records and his time at Hot Buttered Soul/ABC.

The tracks here highlight Hayes’ versatility: from his majestic soul vocals to his groundbreaking soundtrack work, and his increasing focus on dance grooves in his later years. The singles include hits like "Hung Up On My Baby", "Joy (Parts 1 & 2)", "Rolling Down A Mountainside", and "Disco Connection". A number of tracks feature instrumental takes and "Part 2" versions, adding even more depth for collectors.

This release, filled with detailed notes, is an essential for any fan of Hayes' music, offering a unique perspective on his artistry. Featured songs include:

• "Hung Up On My Baby"

• "Joy (Parts 1 & 2)"

• "Rolling Down A Mountainside"

• "Rock Me Easy Baby (Parts 1 & 2)"

• "If Loving You Is Wrong I Don't Want To Be Right"

• "Juicy Fruit (Parts 1 & 2)"

• "Type Thang"You said:

Isaac Hayes (August 20, 1942 – August 10, 2008) was a groundbreaking American singer, songwriter, composer, and producer, known for his profound impact on soul music and his pioneering role in the development of funk and R&B. Hailing from Covington, Tennessee, Hayes rose to fame as one of the leading artists at the legendary Stax Records, where he not only became known for his distinctive baritone voice but also for his innovative production techniques.

Hayes' breakthrough came in 1971 with the release of his album Hot Buttered Soul, a groundbreaking work that melded soul, jazz, and funk into a new, expansive sound. The album, particularly its extended tracks like "By the Time I Get to Phoenix", set a new standard for what could be achieved in the genre, both in terms of length and musical complexity.

In addition to his work as a solo artist, Hayes was also a prolific songwriter and producer. He co-wrote many of the hits for the legendary soul duo Sam & Dave, including their iconic "Soul Man". His role as a producer at Stax Records further cemented his place as one of the most influential figures in soul music.

Hayes' musical achievements were not confined to the studio. In the 1970s, he transitioned into acting and became an iconic figure in popular culture. He voiced the character of Chef on the animated TV show South Park, where his deep voice and humor made him a fan favorite.

His contribution to music was celebrated with numerous awards, including an Academy Award for Best Original Song for "Theme from Shaft" in 1972, which became an anthem of the 1970s and solidified Hayes' reputation as an artist capable of blending soul and cinematic elements.

Isaac Hayes' legacy is one of innovation and depth, and his music continues to influence artists across various genres, from R&B to hip-hop. His groundbreaking work with Stax, his contributions to the funk and soul genres, and his wide-ranging career in entertainment make him one of the most influential figures in the history of American music.

Atlantic Jazz Collective Debuts with Seascape

The Atlantic Jazz Collective is making a powerful first impression with their debut album Seascape, via Alma/Universal. A bold and poetic statement in modern jazz, Seascape brings together a stellar lineup of jazz greats including Norma Winstone and Joe LaBarbera, delivering a project that is as emotionally resonant as it is musically sophisticated.

A Collective of Masterful Voices

Led by Juno Award winners Mike Murley (saxophone) and Florian Hoefner (piano), and featuring acclaimed bassist Jim Vivian, Atlantic Jazz Collective brings a blend of lyricism, virtuosity, and deep-rooted jazz sensibilities. They’re joined by the iconic Norma Winstone, whose evocative vocal interpretations elevate the compositions to poetic heights, and jazz drumming legend Joe LaBarbera, whose energy and sensitivity propel the ensemble forward.

Recorded in St. John’s, Newfoundland, Seascape is inspired by the natural rhythms of the Atlantic coast. The album's atmosphere is shaped by the fluid movement of water, the intimacy of personal reflection, and the freedom of jazz improvisation.

“We truly enjoyed making this music and now it’s your turn to enjoy it,” says LaBarbera.

Winstone adds, “It was a joy to reconnect with Canadian colleagues and explore this deeply expressive music. I’m very much looking forward to touring with this group.”

Available in All Formats

Seascape will be available worldwide in CD, Digital, DOLBY ATMOS, and Hi-Res formats. Whether you're a longtime jazz listener or new to the genre, this is an album that rewards deep listening.

Track Listing

1. Distant Star

2. Where Do We Go From Here

3. Turn Again

4. Always By Your Side

5. Trying To Recall

6. Running Through My Head

7. This Is New

8. Widow In The Window

9. Raffish

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With its lyrical beauty, nuanced improvisation, and world-class performances, Seascape is not just a debut — it’s the beginning of a musical journey you’ll want to follow closely. Don’t miss this landmark release from one of the most exciting new voices in contemporary jazz.

Zoo Too Trio Redefines the Jazz Trio Format with Poetry Legroom, Out May 16

Zoo Too Trio — the boundary-pushing new ensemble featuring Michael Cain (piano), Keith Price (guitar), and Pheeroan akLaff (drums) — is set to release their debut album, Poetry Legroom, on May 16, 2025, via Shifting Paradigm Records. With an innovative take on the jazz trio format, the album challenges conventions and embraces a lush mix of jazz, pop, electronic, and cinematic textures, offering a fresh, fearless voice in modern improvisational music.

A Bold Sonic Vision

Zoo Too Trio breaks from the traditional piano-bass-drums mold. Instead, the absence of a bass instrument allows for new harmonic freedom and rhythmic fluidity. The result? An immersive soundscape where each voice has room to expand, interact, and breathe.

• Michael Cain brings decades of experience at the intersection of jazz, classical, and electronic music. His harmonic sophistication and rich improvisational vocabulary form the core of the trio’s sonic identity. With credits including Jack DeJohnette, Meshell Ndegeocello, and Ravi Coltrane, Cain’s musicality is world-class.

• Pheeroan akLaff infuses the project with powerful, evolving rhythms. As a drummer who has played alongside Cecil Taylor, Henry Threadgill, and Anthony Braxton, akLaff’s command of rhythm transcends genre, anchoring the trio with depth and fire.

• Keith Price, a New Zealand-based guitarist originally from Canada, contributes a uniquely atmospheric voice that blends folk, jazz, and experimental influences. His guitar work is haunting, exploratory, and filled with space — a perfect foil to Cain’s piano and akLaff’s drums.

Exploring Legroom in Sound and Space

Recorded in Brooklyn, NY and produced by Cain, Poetry Legroom is more than a debut — it's a manifesto. From the cinematic drift of “Winter Fog Morning” to the angular urgency of “Alligator Kangaroo,” the album traverses wide emotional and sonic terrain. Tracks like “Waxing Gibbous” stretch out in long, meditative arcs, while “Waltz for Gwen” (written by Ron Blake) evokes a tender, lyrical glow.

The album’s title, Poetry Legroom, speaks to the group’s philosophy: space to stretch, room to move, and freedom to explore the poetic in sound.

Full Tracklist:

1. O’Neil’s Bay (4:07)

2. Poetry Legroom Okinawa Children (7:32)

3. Waltz For Gwen (6:28)

4. Song 1 Day 1 (7:27)

5. Waxing Gibbous (9:48)

6. Solodos (3:24)

7. Alligator Kangaroo (6:23)

8. Winter Fog Morning (6:09)

9. Friends and Whanau (2:20)

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With Poetry Legroom, Zoo Too Trio has created an expansive listening experience that’s both cerebral and emotional — at once grounded in tradition and soaring into new creative realms. The album drops May 16, 2025, on all major streaming platforms and in physical formats via Shifting Paradigm Records.

Stay tuned for release events and future tour dates — this is a trio you’ll want to experience live.

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Another Place: Pachyman Redefines Dub for a New Dimension

Over the last four albums, Pachy García — aka Pachyman — has carved out a cult following by diving deep into the DNA of dub reggae. With analog precision, vintage gear, and a reverent nod to legends like King Tubby and The Scientist, his music has echoed through the underground with undeniable warmth and authenticity.

But with his upcoming fifth album, Another Place, due out via ATO Records, Pachy isn’t just building soundwalls anymore — he’s building worlds.

Beyond Dub: Finding His Own Voice

Recorded in his basement haven Studio 333 House, Another Place is the sound of Pachyman turning inward, then exploding outward. While his heart still beats to the rhythm of dub, this album transcends labels, weaving in threads of vaporwave, soul-jazz, krautrock, and the raw pulse of post-punk. Think William Onyeabor meets ESG meets Washed Out, all filtered through an unmistakably Caribbean lens.

Pachy reflects:

“I needed to break out of this formalist dub reggae purist mindset to find a more personal sound… I wanted to build my own world.”

That vulnerability shows. Whether it’s the blissful haze of “In Love,” the krauty shimmer of “Berlin,” or the emotional gravity of “False Moves” — inspired in part by the Gaza conflict — the album pulses with both innovation and honesty.

Repetition, Reinvented

Though rooted in loop-based traditions, Pachyman isn't repeating himself. From ambient moments reminiscent of Boards of Canada to drum-and-bass-inspired repetitions, his sonic palette has expanded without abandoning the minimalist spirit of dub. Even his vocals have grown bolder, taking on a mantric, meditative role — especially on album opener “Calor Ahora,” penned during an anxiety episode in L.A.'s “cold” winter.

A Global Journey: Tour Dates

With Another Place, Pachyman isn't just exploring new musical territory — he's taking the journey worldwide. Catch him live at one of the following stops:

Europe

• May 21 – Hamburg, DE @ Knust

• May 23 – Stockholm, SE @ Hosoi

• May 24 – Gothenburg, SE @ Nefertiti

• May 25 – Copenhagen, DN @ Ideal Bar

• May 28 – Berlin, DE @ LARK

• May 29 – Munich, DE @ Import Export

• May 30 – Zurich, CH @ Moods

• May 31 – Antwerp, BE @ De Roma

• June 1 – Utrecht, NL @ De Nijverheid

• June 3 – Paris, FR @ Le Point Ephémère

• June 4 – Brighton, UK @ The Hope & Ruin

• June 5 – London, UK @ Jazz Cafe

• June 6 – Bristol, UK @ Rough Trade

• June 7 – Nottingham, UK @ Rough Trade

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If Another Place proves anything, it’s that Pachyman has no intention of staying in one lane. He’s not just preserving dub’s legacy — he’s reimagining it, pulling its cosmic threads into strange, beautiful new shapes. Don’t miss this journey.

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Glenn Dickson and Bob Familiar Illuminate New Electro-Acoustic Horizons on All the Light of Our Spher

New album out May 30, 2025 on Sounds Familiar — release concert June 14 at synthCube, Waltham, MA

What happens when a pioneering klezmer clarinetist and a veteran of Boston’s ‘80s synth-rock scene join forces? You get All the Light of Our Sphere—an immersive, electro-acoustic odyssey of sound, story, and emotional resonance. Due out May 30, 2025 on the Sounds Familiar label, the new album by clarinetist Glenn Dickson and synthesist Bob Familiar is a bold fusion of melodic improvisation, layered textures, and harmonic evolution. An album release concert will take place Saturday, June 14 at 8 p.m. at synthCube, 167 Prospect St., Unit 1, Waltham, MA.

Blending the acoustic expressiveness of clarinet with the sculpted timbres of analog and digital synthesis, All the Light of Our Sphere is rich in both intimacy and scale. Each track was recorded live—no overdubs, no beat tracks, no MIDI grids—resulting in a dynamic, organic listening experience where narrative arcs unfold and motifs transform in real time.

The project began after Dickson and Familiar met while performing separate sets at an electronic music night in 2024. Though coming from different musical worlds—Dickson a leader in avant-klezmer with Naftule’s Dream, and Familiar a mainstay of Boston’s synth underground—both artists found common ground in their approach to motif development, tonal modulation, and immersive structure.

The album rejects the static drone typical of much ambient music in favor of evolving textures, layered loops, and melodic arcs. Dickson brings to the collaboration looping and electronic manipulation of his clarinet—techniques familiar from his acclaimed 2022 ambient solo album Wider than the Sky. Familiar contributes sounds from the expressive Osmose keyboard, the shimmering Rhodes piano, and a suite of modern processors and loop stations to construct deeply human digital landscapes.

From the somber build of opener "When Fortune Laid the Trojans Low" to the radiant, ecstatic closer "And Even Yours is Mine," the album navigates light and shadow, dissonance and resolution. Highlights include:

• "Words Set Free from Doubt" – soaring clarinet over ecclesiastical synths

• "Just One Inch in a Hundred Years" – a meditative journey of layered harmony

• "Sweet Seed from Bitter Fruit" – pastoral, blissful, and hauntingly melodic

• "Pretending She Was Someone Else" – exotic modalism meets harmonic unease

• "When the Mist Thins" – a rhythmic, melodic clearing of atmospheric fog

With glowing tones, evolving improvisations, and a narrative sense of flow, All the Light of Our Sphere offers a transportive listening experience. As George Harris (Jazz Weekly) wrote of Dickson’s prior work, “A kind of mix of Eno and Eastern Europe takes place, combining sound-scapes and vocal-like passions.”

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About the Artists

Glenn Dickson is widely recognized as a master clarinetist and composer, known for his work with Naftule’s Dream, Shirim, and Hypnotic Clambake. He has recorded for labels including Tzadik, Innova, Rykodisc, and Newport Classic, and has performed at major jazz festivals across North America and Europe. He studied microtonality and improvisation with Joe Maneri and has collaborated with Maurice Sendak and NPR’s Ellen Kushner. His solo ambient debut Wider than the Sky earned critical praise in 2022.

Bob Familiar is a Boston-based synthesist and composer with deep roots in rock and electronic music. Formerly of The Dark, November Group, and Death in Venice, he’s released 22 albums of ambient and electronic work inspired by literary and philosophical themes. He’s co-founder of the Ambient Arcana podcast, executive board member of the New England Synthesizer Community, and a regular contributor to the New England Synthesizer Festival. His performances feature expressive improvisation, live looping, and richly designed sonic landscapes.

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Ted Olsen’s Violette Arrives June 6, 2025 on Shifting Paradigm Records

A sweeping fusion of jazz, chamber music, and art song from the acclaimed Minneapolis-based bassist and composer

Shifting Paradigm Records proudly announces the release of Violette, the bold and expressive new album from bassist, composer, and songwriter Ted Olsen, available June 6, 2025 on vinyl, CD, digital download, and streaming platforms.

A genre-defying statement, Violette is at once intimate and cinematic, blending jazz improvisation, classical textures, and lyrical songwriting. Featuring the Violette Ensemble—a handpicked group of renowned improvisers and classical soloists, including members of the Minnesota Orchestra—the album showcases Olsen’s most expansive and emotionally resonant work to date.

Originally formed in 2021 and catalyzed by Olsen’s McKnight Composer Fellowship, the Violette Ensemble brings to life a musical vision rooted in themes of twilight, transformation, and autumnal beauty—threads running through Olsen’s earlier compositions such as October Hues and Crepuscular Sketches.

Among the standout performances is the centerpiece track “Dusk, WSQ,” a richly orchestrated, New York-evoking meditation featuring vocalist Aby Wolf, pianist Will Kjeer, and a lush string section led by violinists Sarah Grimes and Ernest Bisong. Olsen’s chamber-style writing soars here, capturing a moment of serene reflection at the edge of day.

Other highlights include:

• “To Acquiesce,” elevated by John Raymond’s radiant flugelhorn solo.

• “Present Tense,” where Olsen’s melodic bass improvisation intertwines with the ensemble’s strings.

• “Split Rock Postcard” and “Aubade (Violet),” vivid art songs blending structure and spontaneity.

• “Bright Star,” featuring Eric Mayson in a powerful, minimalist trio setting.

The vinyl edition distills the album into a potent five-track arc, while the digital and CD formats expand the narrative with exclusive pieces like the introspective “Intermezzo (Bloom)” and the climactic “Étude (Kaleidoscopic).”

Since receiving his McKnight Fellowship in 2020, Ted Olsen has composed over 60 original works and released two prior albums. His debut Joyfire was hailed as “sprawling yet cohesive” (Minneapolis Star Tribune), while his 2020 EP It’s Easy to Pretend highlighted his ongoing evolution as a composer. He’s also a past recipient of the ASCAP Herb Alpert Young Jazz Composer Award and a finalist in the International Society of Bassists’ Jazz Bass Competition.

Performing regularly alongside luminaries like Michael Cain, Dayna Stephens, and Javier Santiago, Olsen brings a rare clarity and richness to every musical setting. Violette represents the pinnacle of his compositional craft—a deeply personal, genre-crossing album that challenges, comforts, and captivates.

Track Listing (CD & Digital Edition)

1. To Acquiesce (6:45)

2. Split Rock Postcard (5:32)

3. Dusk, WSQ (5:25)

4. Present Tense (9:07)

5. Intermezzo (Bloom) (3:07)*

6. Bright Star (5:39)*

7. Étude (Kaleidoscopic) (3:01)*

8. Aubade (Violet) (12:27)
   * CD only

Fiona Ross Redefines Jazz Storytelling with Bold and Beautiful New Album

Moments in My Notebook Out May 30 – Tour Begins May 31

Fiona Ross has never followed convention—and she’s not about to start now. The genre-defying vocalist, pianist, composer, producer, and journalist will release her ambitious new album, Moments in My Notebook, on May 30, 2025, marking a monumental career milestone: her 100th original song.

Anchored by the compelling singles “Let Your Soul Shine” and “I Don’t Want Money”, the album is a sweeping journey through jazz-fueled storytelling that spans 21 tracks—each one a snapshot from her creative life. It’s a record that seamlessly weaves vulnerability, grit, Latin rhythms, and soulful rebellion into a textured mosaic of voice, sound, and emotion.

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A Life Lived in Lyrics

Fiona Ross is best known for carving out her own lane in the contemporary jazz world, mixing vintage club cool with modern edge, and Latin jazz with socially conscious storytelling. Her artistry has earned international acclaim not just for her music, but also for her advocacy, leadership, and work as a music journalist. She was the former head of the British Academy of New Music’s artist development program, where she mentored young artists—most notably a pre-fame Ed Sheeran.

Whether it’s through her work as founder of Women in Jazz Media or her boundary-pushing albums, Ross has established herself as a fearlessly original voice in the industry, known for tackling everything from mental health and societal issues to personal grief and triumph with elegance and edge.

“I still write everything in notebooks,” she says of the album’s concept. “Some songs started with a bass line, some with a lyric, some from something I overheard in a café. This album is 21 moments from those pages—21 moments in my life.”

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Inside Moments in My Notebook

The project features both new material and songs penned decades ago—giving them their long-awaited moment to breathe. The result is a dynamic, genre-blending collection: from the intimate hush of a midnight ballad to the vibrant pulse of Latin percussion.

• “Let Your Soul Shine” was born after a serendipitous encounter at a market stall. “I saw a sign that said it, and the song poured out of me in ten minutes,” Ross says. The track is a radiant anthem of resilience and self-worth.

• “I Don’t Want Money” channels the eternal creative struggle: “Wouldn’t it be nice to just make music without thinking about the cost?” It’s Ross at her most raw and real.

• “Pirates in Paris” is a jazz-meets-poetry love letter to artistic freedom, inspired by her long-standing relationship with the French capital.

• “Voices Unheard” is a powerful call for recognition, naming cultural and historical giants like Melba Liston, James Baldwin, Mary Lou Williams, and Ida B. Wells.

A standout moment on the album is “China Told Me: The Live Session,” a song inspired by vocal powerhouse China Moses. Rehearsed and recorded in a single day with an all-female and non-binary ensemble, the track features members of J Steps, an award-winning group of under-18 jazz musicians founded by Hannah Horton. “This session was magical,” Ross says. “It’s meant to be heard and seen—watch for the video in June.”

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A Stellar Cast of Collaborators

Moments in My Notebook boasts a rich sonic palette thanks to its diverse cast of collaborators:

• Gibbi Bettini (guitar)

• Derek Daley (bass)

• Marley Drummond (drums)

• Loren Hignell (sax, clarinet, flutes)

• Simon Todd (percussion)

• Dave Boa (trumpet)

Plus guest appearances by:

• Charlotte Keeffe, Laura Impallomeni, Migdalia van Der Hoven, Diana Torti, and Hannah Horton

Engineered and mastered across multiple studios, the album blends the spontaneity of live performance with the precision of meticulous composition.

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“100 Songs” – A Full-Circle Moment

The album closes with “100 Songs,” a touching, introspective piece that reflects on legacy, time, and loss. “What would my parents say if they were here?” Ross asks. “Would they be proud? Would they understand what I’ve built?”

It’s a deeply human question—and a fitting close to a project about the moments that shape us.

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Tour Dates – Experience It Live

To celebrate the release, Fiona Ross is heading on tour in the UK and Europe. Don’t miss your chance to witness these songs come to life on stage.

Fiona Ross – 2025 Tour Dates:

• May 31, 2025 – Highworth Jazz Festival, UK

• June 4, 2025 – Soul Mama, London, UK (Album Launch Show)

• August 16, 2025 – Acorn Theatre, Cornwall, UK

• September 13, 2025 – Hampstead Jazz Club, London, UK

Benergy – Ben Basile’s Debut Solo Album Blends Ska, Jazz, and Personal Stories

Acclaimed bassist Ben Basile, known for laying down the low end with ska-punk legends Big D and the Kids Table, has just dropped his debut solo album, Benergy, out now on Sleep Walk Sounds. A celebration of ska, jazz, and Basile’s Hudson Valley roots, Benergy is available for streaming and vinyl pre-order now.

What is Benergy?

The name Benergy was born during a bass lesson when one of Basile’s students playfully coined the term to describe his intense performance style. “When I play ska punk, like with Big D, it’s about momentum—pushing the music,” Basile recalls. That single word captured the vibe perfectly—and the title stuck.

The album itself is a genre-blurring journey through ska, jazz, and punk-tinged improvisation. Tracks like "Mountain Road," "74 Leonard Street," and "87 to 90" are full of heart and hometown references, echoing his deep ties to the Hudson Valley. It’s a highly personal, groove-laced project with soul, swing, and swagger.

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About Ben Basile

A native of Wappingers Falls, NY and now based in Rosendale, Ben Basile has carved out a career as one of ska and jazz’s most versatile bassists. He has toured six continents with acts like Pilfers, New York Ska-Jazz Ensemble, and of course, Big D and the Kids Table. But despite his globetrotting, Basile remains firmly grounded in the Hudson Valley music scene.

• He founded the Poughkeepsie Jazz Project in 2012, fostering weekly jams for local musicians.

• He’s an active educator and mentor, inspiring the next generation of bass players and improvisers.

• When not touring, you’ll find him playing with groups like In The Pocket, Eric Puente Jazz Quartet, Sheridan Rúitín, and Emo Night Karaoke.

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Benergy – The Album

Benergy is more than a solo debut—it’s a love letter to ska, jazz, and Basile’s own musical journey. Recorded across multiple East Coast studios and mastered by Tom Rosato (Zena Mastering), the album features a stellar lineup of musicians from the ska-jazz world.

It’s perfect for fans of:

• Ernest Ranglin

• Victor Rice

• Horace Silver

• The Skatalites

• New York Ska-Jazz Ensemble

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Upcoming Shows

Catch Ben Basile live this June at the following shows:

• Thursday, June 5 – All Points West, Newark, NJ

• Friday, June 6 – Reason & Ruckus, Poughkeepsie, NY

• Saturday, June 7 – TBA, Boston, MA

• Sunday, June 8 – Hutghi’s, Westfield, MA

Chambers DeLauriers Announce New Album Our Time to Ride + New Single “People Gonna Talk”

Blues power couple Annika Chambers & Paul DesLauriers—known together as Chambers DeLauriers—are set to turn up the heat this summer with their highly anticipated new album, Our Time to Ride, dropping August 22, 2025 via Forty Below Records. The announcement comes with the release of a powerful new single, “People Gonna Talk”, which just premiered exclusively via The Urban Music Scene.

Our Time to Ride blends deep blues, soulful R&B melodies, and riff-driven rock, all wrapped in heartfelt storytelling and raw, expressive performances. Recorded across three cities—Montreal, Los Angeles, and Houston—the album was produced by Eric Corne (John Mayall, Sugaray Rayford, Joe Louis Walker), who perfectly captured the duo’s dynamic synergy.

The core rhythm section of their touring band—Gary Davenport (bass) and Sly Coulombe (drums)—brings a tight, gritty groove to the record, while keyboardists Sasha Smith and Jesse O’Brien, horn players Mark Pender and David Ralicke, and background vocals from Nicoya Polar and Corne himself round out the album’s rich sonic palette.

Much of the album was tracked live off the floor in Montreal to retain the raw, in-the-moment energy of a Chambers DeLauriers show. “Eric made sure we were all super comfortable, and things flowed,” recalls Paul. “We had the luxury of feeling like we were just playing live.”

Annika adds, “Paul recorded most of his solos in one night. He was in the zone. They were asking if he needed a break, and I said, ‘No—just let him keep going!’”

With a groove-heavy blend of country, blues, and rock ‘n’ roll, “People Gonna Talk” delivers a message of authenticity and self-acceptance. Annika and Paul bring undeniable swagger to this feel-good anthem that’s as empowering as it is danceable. Think Mavis Staples meets The Rolling Stones—a little grit, a little groove, and a whole lot of soul.

The track is a reflection of the world we live in—judgmental, noisy, and fast-paced. Yet it serves as a musical reminder to ignore the chatter and live unapologetically. Whether you're dancing in your kitchen or lining up at a festival stage, this one’s made to move you.

Since joining forces in 2018, Chambers DeLauriers has crafted music that reflects love, resilience, and the soulful power of blues and rock.

• Annika Chambers is a powerhouse vocalist from Texas, raised on gospel and Southern soul. She’s a three-time Blues Music Award winner (2019, 2022, 2024), and her last album, Kiss My Sass, debuted at #4 on the Billboard Blues Chart.

• Paul DesLauriers, a celebrated Canadian guitarist and singer, has earned multiple Maple Blues Awards and placed 2nd at the International Blues Challenge in Memphis in 2016. His expressive guitar work is a cornerstone of the duo’s sound.

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Our Time to Ride – Track Listing

1. Love You Just the Same

2. People Gonna Talk

3. Written in the Stars

4. Believe in Love

5. Sing

6. Temperature of One-O-Nine

7. In the Heart of the Night

8. Our Time to Ride

9. One in a Million

Tesa Williams Shines on Soulful Debut with Marc Nelson Duet

One of the brightest rising stars in today’s Philly soul revival, Tesa Williams is finally stepping into the well-deserved spotlight. A uniquely gifted vocalist with a voice that blends velvet smoothness and emotional depth, Tesa has been quietly building her reputation for years. While many music fans may recognize her voice from supporting roles with legends like Gerald Levert and Vesta Williams, those in the know have been waiting for the moment when she'd claim center stage. That moment has officially arrived.

After a long journey through the music industry—marked by perseverance, collaboration, and sheer talent—Tesa is preparing to release her long-overdue debut solo album. If the first single is any indication, she’s about to make a major impact not just in Philadelphia, but across the national R&B scene.

The lead single is a stunning reinterpretation of Whitney Houston’s underrated 1988 ballad, “Just the Lonely Talking Again.” In a bold and beautiful move, Tesa transforms the song into a duet alongside acclaimed vocalist Marc Nelson, known both for his founding role in Boyz II Men and as the voice behind Az Yet, one of Philly’s most beloved R&B groups.

Together, Tesa and Marc bring fresh life to the track, giving it a heartfelt, contemporary edge while honoring the tenderness of the original. Their vocal chemistry is undeniable—his rich tone perfectly complements her expressive phrasing. The result is not just a cover, but a reimagining that resonates deeply with both longtime fans of the genre and new listeners alike.

Helping craft this gem is none other than legendary Philly soul producer Butch Ingram, whose work has shaped the sound of the city for decades. Under his guidance, the track features lush, sophisticated production and an authentic soul foundation, courtesy of some of Philadelphia’s finest session musicians.

For Tesa Williams, this release feels like the culmination of years of dedication—and the beginning of something special. Her debut album is already generating buzz, and if this single is any preview of what’s to come, she’s poised to become one of the defining voices of modern soul.

Stay tuned for more details on her upcoming release—and don’t miss the single when it drops. It’s a must-hear moment in the making.

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Jo-Yu Chen Bridges Classical Elegance and Jazz Fire on Rendezvous

When pianist Jo-Yu Chen left her native Taiwan to study at Juilliard, she was fully immersed in the classical world — a dual-discipline student of piano and oboe. But New York City had other plans. Soon after arriving, Chen found herself captivated by jazz, continuing her studies at The New School and falling under the spell of trailblazing pianists like Jason Moran, Sam Yahel, and Kevin Hays.

It didn’t take long for her new direction to take flight. Chen made waves with a trio of stunning releases — Obsession (2009) featuring Tyshawn Sorey, Stranger (2014) with Kurt Rosenwinkel, and Savage Beauty (2019) featuring Mark Turner — all released on Sony Music, making her the first Taiwanese jazz artist signed to a major label.

Fast forward to 2020. Back in Taiwan during the pandemic, Chen reconnected with classical peers, many also Juilliard-trained. Instead of leaving jazz behind, she found a deeper harmony between her two musical worlds.

The result? Rendezvous: Jazz Meets Beethoven, Tchaikovsky & More — her most ambitious project yet, out May 2, 2025, on Sony Music. This album blends five classical composers with jazz’s expressive language, interpreted by Chen’s trio with bassist Chris Tordini and drummer Tommy Crane.

The album opens with an exhilarating mash-up of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 and Moonlight Sonata, and later features an introspective solo rendition of Sonata No. 8 (Pathétique). Chen brings elegance to The Nutcracker’s Dance of the Reed Flutes, grace to Swan Lake, and a tango-inspired twist to Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 2. There's even a quietly moving tribute to Ravel with Pavane Pour Une Infante Défunte — a piece transformed from solo to trio magic at the urging of her bandmates.

For Chen, this isn’t a “crossover” project. It’s a natural evolution. “I disconnected from the classical world when I moved to New York, but the sound always stayed inside me,” she says. “I felt it was about time to integrate them.”

She began experimenting with that fusion in 2023 with her award-nominated single Walking Through Fear, a striking piece for piano and string quartet. In 2024, she released Schubert & Mozart: 'Round Midnight, born out of late-night festival performances in Taiwan. These projects laid the groundwork With Rendezvous, Jo-Yu Chen offers more than reinterpretation — she creates a musical conversation across centuries, one that feels both timeless and vividly alive.

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Track List – Rendezvous: Jazz Meets Beethoven, Tchaikovsky & More

1. Beethoven – Symphony No. 5 / Piano Sonata “Moonlight”

2. Tchaikovsky – The Nutcracker: Dance of the Reed Flutes

3. Beethoven – Sonata No. 8 “Pathétique” (2nd Movement)

4. Tchaikovsky – Swan Lake

5. Prokofiev – Romeo & Juliet: Dance of the Knights

6. Mussorgsky – Pictures at an Exhibition: The Old Castle

7. Prokofiev – Piano Concerto No. 2

8. Ravel – Pavane Pour Une Infante Défunte

Rediscovering Eric Burdon and WAR: The Explosive Start of a Legendary Sound

“Peace and love were everywhere, so we figured nobody would forget the name if we called the band WAR. And we were right,” recalled producer Jerry Goldstein in the liner notes for Eric Burdon and WAR: The Complete CD Collection. That quote perfectly captures the raw, contradictory energy that defined the early days of WAR. Recently reissued as a four-disc CD set (originally on vinyl in 2022), this collection brings together the full recorded legacy of Eric Burdon’s brief but groundbreaking collaboration with the band: Eric Burdon Declares “War”, The Black-Man’s Burdon, and the posthumous odds-and-ends compilation Love Is All Around.

While these aren’t the most polished entries in WAR’s catalog, they offer an unfiltered look at the roots of a genre-defying group that would go on to craft iconic hits like “Low Rider” and “Why Can’t We Be Friends?” For anyone interested in how their sound came to be, these albums are well worth revisiting.

Burdon, best known as the gritty voice of The Animals ("House of the Rising Sun," anyone?), had relocated to San Francisco when he crossed paths with a multi-ethnic L.A. band called Nightshift. The group—previously known as The Creators—caught Goldstein’s attention during a 1969 club gig supporting football star-turned-soul singer Deacon Jones. Goldstein sensed their potential and reshaped the lineup, bringing in the likes of Howard Scott (guitar), Lonnie Jordan (keys), Harold Brown (drums), B.B. Dickerson (bass), Charles Miller (sax/flute), Dee Allen (percussion), and Lee Oskar (harmonica). Together with Burdon, they debuted as Eric Burdon and WAR at the Newport ’69 Festival, blowing minds with their Afro-Latin, jazz, funk, rock, and psychedelic fusion.

Their first album, Eric Burdon Declares “War”, kicks off with “Dedication,” part of the sprawling “Vision of Rassan” suite. It’s a bold opener—sonically dense and politically charged, with Lonnie Jordan’s piano driving the track through references to African-American music legends and harrowing imagery. The album leans into an experimental, freewheeling vibe, quite unlike Burdon’s past work. Tracks like the 13-minute take on “Tobacco Road” and the slinky, surreal “Spill the Wine” showcase the group’s improvisational flair and joy in simply playing together. The stereo mix only heightens the album’s trippy atmosphere.

The second LP, The Black-Man’s Burdon, ups the ante. It’s a massive double album, more jam-heavy and meandering than its predecessor—but also more ambitious. The band dives deep into sprawling reworks of rock staples like “Paint It Black” and “Nights in White Satin,” spinning them out with extended solos, spoken-word interludes, and flute-led detours. Some moments, like “Bare Back Ride” and “Home Cookin’,” offer tighter songwriting, while others feel more like sonic explorations than songs. That said, the album still captures a band at the height of their creative fearlessness.

Sadly, by February 1971, Burdon had worn out—both physically and creatively—and exited the band. According to Lonnie Jordan, he gave the rest of the group his blessing, confident they could carry on. And carry on they did—under Goldstein’s guidance, WAR would soon dominate the charts with a refined but still rhythmically adventurous sound.

Before that chapter began, however, one last release captured the end of the Burdon era. Love Is All Around, released in 1976, gathered unreleased material from their time together. The title track, recorded in 1970, could’ve been a hit in its own right. “Magic Mountain,” the B-side to “Spill the Wine,” delivers a classic WAR groove. There’s also an alternate version of “Tobacco Road” from their first session, a repurposed cut from Burdon’s Guilty album, and covers of “Paint It Black” and “A Day in the Life”—the latter reimagined in wonderfully chaotic WAR style.

The new box set, remastered by Bernie Grundman, gives these albums a sonic upgrade. The packaging is minimal but tasteful, with replica sleeves and a small booklet (though the text is a bit of an eyestrain). Still, the real treasure here is the music: raw, genre-bending, and full of purpose.

This collection captures WAR before the fame, still discovering their identity but already sounding like no one else. If you’re a fan of the band, or just curious about a unique moment in music history where psychedelic rock, soul, jazz, funk, and activism all collided, this set is more than worth your time.

Time to pour a glass and spill the wine.

5 Unmissable Soul & R&B Nights at Montreux Festival 2025

Set against the stunning backdrop of Lake Geneva, the Montreux Jazz Festival has long been a beacon for music lovers around the world. While jazz remains at its heart, the festival has evolved into a global celebration of sound, embracing everything from rock and pop to hip-hop, electronic, and—of course—soul and R&B. Every summer, Montreux draws legendary artists and bold new voices to its iconic stages, creating moments of musical magic that live on for years.

In 2025, fans of soul and R&B are in for a spectacular treat. From pioneering legends to genre-defining newcomers, this year’s lineup offers five nights of powerhouse performances that honor the past, present, and future of the genre.

Chaka Khan – A Tribute and a Milestone

July 4 – Lake Stage

This year’s festival kicks off with a double celebration: a tribute to the late, great Quincy Jones and the 50-year career of Chaka Khan, the Queen of Funk. The evening begins with “To Q with Love”, a tribute concert featuring Siedah Garrett (co-writer of “Man in the Mirror”), Rahsaan Patterson, Mica Paris, Seven, and Marc Sway—all honoring the genius of Quincy Jones.

Then, Chaka takes center stage to revisit the hits that made her a global icon—“I’m Every Woman”, “Ain’t Nobody”, and many more. This night will be a soul-powered celebration of two legends in one.

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Raye – From Rising Star to Festival Headliner

July 9 – Lake Stage

Last year, RAYE stunned audiences with a powerful performance that earned her a spot as this year's headliner—and a live album, Live at Montreux, to remember it by. With seven Brit Awards to her name and recent collaborations with Doja Cat, RAYE brings a fresh, bold energy to modern R&B.

Opening the night is JADE, making her solo debut after achieving international fame with Little Mix. Expect a night of fierce vocals, sharp songwriting, and unforgettable presence.

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Lionel Richie – Timeless Soul

July 10 – Lake Stage

From The Commodores to a solo career packed with chart-toppers, Lionel Richie has written the soundtrack to generations of love stories and dancefloor moments. His voice still warms the soul with classics like “Hello”, “All Night Long”, and “Say You, Say Me.”

Opening the night is Celeste, one of the most captivating voices in UK soul today. Her velvet-rich tone and emotive songwriting set the perfect tone for an evening of nostalgic magic and timeless R&B.

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Diana Ross – The Supreme Diva Returns

July 11 – Lake Stage

A living legend graces the Lake Stage: Diana Ross, whose trailblazing career spans Motown, disco, and pop. From “Baby Love” and “You Can’t Hurry Love” with The Supremes to solo smashes like “I’m Coming Out”, her influence spans decades.

With her signature glamour and unmistakable voice, Diana Ross’s performance promises to be a dazzling highlight of the festival.

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Leon Bridges – Soul Revival Redefined

July 13 – Casino Stage

Leon Bridges returns to Montreux with a sound that’s evolved while staying deeply rooted in soul. Since his 2018 debut here, he’s won a Grammy, experimented with psychedelic soul on Texas Sun (with Khruangbin), and added country-folk textures to his palette. Yet, at the core is that silky, emotive voice reminiscent of Sam Cooke and Otis Redding.

Opening act Peter Cat Recording Co. brings a genre-bending mix of soul, psych rock, and Indian influences—an unexpected and compelling prelude to Bridges’ magnetic set.