Beingness – A Sonic Meditation from Three Masters of Creative Music - Adam Rudolph, Dave Liebman & Billy Hart Unite for a Stunning Live Album

Out May 23, 2025 on Meta Records (CD/Digital); LPs follow on July 15

When three giants of creative music convene, the result is rarely anything less than transcendent. On Beingness, percussion visionary Adam Rudolph joins forces with NEA Jazz Masters Dave Liebman (soprano sax, wood flutes) and Billy Hart (drums) for a remarkable live recording that defies genre and expectation. Captured live at The Stone in New York City in spring 2023, Beingness is the fourth in a celebrated series of trio releases by Liebman and Rudolph and will be available on May 23, 2025, via Meta Records (CD and digital), with vinyl editions to follow on July 15.

A Meeting of Icons

The roots of this project run deep. Liebman and Hart’s creative bond spans over 30 years, tracing back to their time with Miles Davis in the early 1970s. Rudolph’s collaborative journey with Liebman began in 2016, eventually leading to a rotating-trio format. When Tyshawn Sorey was unavailable for a key performance at The Stone, Hart stepped in—and lightning struck.

“I’ve admired Billy’s playing since I heard him with Herbie Hancock’s Mwandishi Sextet,” says Rudolph. “To share this musical space with both Dave and Billy was a dream realized.”

Spontaneous Creation at Its Highest Level

Beingness is not just an album—it's a profound sonic exploration. Across nine improvisational tracks with evocative titles like “Unfolding,” “Transparent to Transcendence,” and the eponymous “Beingness,” the trio channels decades of innovation and improvisation into moments of musical clarity, surprise, and sublime communication.

“This music has a collaborative heart,” noted Audiophile Audition. “You can call it jazz, spontaneous composition, or non-genre instrumentalism—but it’s three-dimensional music.”

Liebman adds, “We opened our ears and hearts. The results were magical.”

Hart agrees: “We came to this with open ears, imagination, and a lifetime of preparation. That’s the key to being free in the music.”

An Organic Orchestral Experience

Known for his groundbreaking work with ensembles like Go: Organic Orchestra, Rudolph brings more than hand drums to the table. He uses thumb pianos, electronic processing, piano, and gongs, crafting what he calls “organic orchestrations.” Post-production became an extension of performance, with subtle enhancements inspired by world traditions like African instrument augmentation—what Rudolph calls the “shadow line” or “voice of the ancestors.”

“Beingness reflects the essential being of nature, which is change,” writes Rudolph in the liner notes. “Each gesture animates the infinite space between thought and non-thought.”

About the Artists

Dave Liebman, a saxophone and woodwind virtuoso with over 500 recordings to his name, is one of the most respected figures in jazz history. A veteran of Miles Davis and Elvin Jones’s bands, a Grammy nominee, and the founder of the International Association of Schools of Jazz, Liebman continues to inspire as both a performer and educator.

Billy Hart, also an NEA Jazz Master, boasts an incomparable resume including work with Otis Redding, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, and Stan Getz. A pillar of modern jazz drumming, Hart leads his own acclaimed quartet and teaches at Oberlin, NEC, and WMU.

Adam Rudolph is a pioneer of global fusion and creative music. His work with Yusef Lateef, Don Cherry, and countless others has cemented his legacy as a forward-thinking composer and rhythmic innovator. Through his ensembles and books like Sonic Elements, Rudolph continues to push the boundaries of musical thought.

Track Listing

1. Unfolding – 7:27

2. Transmutation – 7:08

3. Intent – 5:50

4. Pathways – 9:05

5. Beingness – 2:50

6. Refractions – 7:52

7. Transparent to Transcendence – 6:48

8. Remembering the Future – 9:25

9. Mystique – 5:21

Recorded live by Edward Gavitt | Mixed/mastered by James Dellatacoma
All compositions by Liebman, Rudolph, Hart
Production, orchestration & electronics by Adam Rudolph

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With Beingness, these three musical sages invite listeners into a space of deep listening, where the spontaneous becomes sacred. Whether you're a seasoned jazz devotee or a seeker of sonic frontiers, this album is an essential experience.

Kristina Koller Reimagines the Burt Bacharach Songbook on Bold New Album Walk On By

Jazz vocalist and arranger Kristina Koller brings her boundary-pushing musical vision to the timeless repertoire of Burt Bacharach on her upcoming fourth album, Walk On By, releasing May 16, 2025, via independent distribution. With genre-defying arrangements and a deeply personal connection to the music, Koller introduces a fresh generation to one of pop music’s most iconic songwriters.

Known for her modern approach to classic vocal jazz, Koller’s Walk On By is more than a tribute album — it’s a creative reinvention. Blending jazz, soul, R&B, and rhythmic innovation, Koller and her band breathe new life into 11 Bacharach compositions, balancing reverence with adventurous flair.

“Bacharach’s music makes me feel very nostalgic,” says Koller, “but I wanted to approach these songs in a way that speaks to today’s listeners while keeping their emotional core intact.”

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A Personal Connection, a Musical Legacy

Bacharach, who passed away in 2023, left behind a songwriting legacy spanning more than six decades. His melodies, often paired with Hal David’s lyrics, became cultural touchstones — yet many younger audiences know the songs without knowing the man behind them. That disconnect sparked Koller’s desire to revisit and reshape Bacharach’s work.

Koller’s introduction to Bacharach came early, thanks to her mother’s deep love of his music. “I grew up with this music playing in the background of my life,” she says. “After the success of my Cole Porter album, my mom kept saying, ‘Now do Burt!’”

Unlike her earlier albums, which leaned heavily on original compositions (Perception, 2018) and single-composer tributes (Get Out of Town, 2022, on Cole Porter), Walk On By is more collaborative and improvisational in its foundation. Longtime bandmates Fima Chupakhin (piano/Rhodes), James Robbins (bass), and Cory Cox (drums) provide the rhythmic and harmonic grounding for Koller’s fearless vocal interpretations. Robbins co-arranged the album alongside Koller.

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Track Highlights: Where Classic Meets Contemporary

The album opens with a sultry, R&B-tinged “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again,” featuring an expressive solo from drummer Cox. Koller’s voice, equal parts smoky and precise, sets the tone for the album’s adventurous spirit.

A tender and rhythmically surprising take on “Close to You” follows, reshaped with a 5/4 time signature that adds depth and swing to one of Bacharach’s most romantic hits.

One of the emotional peaks of the album is “A House Is Not a Home,” where Koller fully inhabits the song’s sense of heartbreak with her emotive delivery. By contrast, she brings an infectious warmth to “That’s What Friends Are For,” sung as a joyful duet with pianist and longtime friend Rosemary Minkler.

Koller’s version of “Say a Little Prayer” draws on childhood memories — “This song is burned in my memory because my mom played it so often,” she says. Robbins’s arrangement gives the tune a fresh rhythmic pulse.

Other standouts include the hauntingly stripped-down “Don’t Make Me Over,” a rhythmically evocative reinvention of “Walk On By” (originally conceived as a samba), and an upbeat, hopeful “Reach Out for Me.”

Perhaps the most intriguing selection is “Loving Is a Way of Living,” a forgotten gem recorded only once before by Steve Lawrence in 1959. Koller discovered the song in a vintage songbook and recorded it with just piano accompaniment, giving it a raw intimacy that invites rediscovery.

The album closes with a poignant rendition of “What the World Needs Now,” a timely message delivered with grace and sincerity.

“There’s so much happening in the world that makes us feel disconnected. I thought this song would be the perfect way to end the album — something simple, beautiful, and true,” says Koller.

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A Voice for Today’s Jazz and Beyond

Koller’s musical journey began in classical voice and musical theater, but it was in high school jazz band that she found her calling. She later studied jazz at The Hartt School’s Jackie McLean Institute and completed her degree at City College of New York. Since then, she’s become a fixture in the NYC jazz scene, performing at iconic venues like Smalls, Smoke, Minton’s, and Mezzrow.

While her technical versatility allows her to sing across genres, what truly sets Koller apart is her intentionality. She doesn’t bend styles just to showcase range — instead, she lets the story and emotional tone of each song guide her choices.

“Jazz gives you space to reimagine,” she says. “You can add R&B or funk without leaving the jazz idiom, as long as you’re being honest with the music.”

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A Modern Tribute with Timeless Appeal

With Walk On By, Kristina Koller creates a dynamic conversation between past and present. It’s a record that honors Bacharach’s genius while asserting her own voice as an arranger and storyteller. For longtime Bacharach fans, it’s a bold reinterpretation of beloved songs. For new listeners, it’s a vibrant invitation to explore one of pop’s richest catalogs through a contemporary jazz lens.

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Walk On By releases May 16, 2025. 

Dave Anderson’s New Album In Lieu of Flowers Reflects on Loss, Legacy, and the Power of Musical Tribute

Saxophonist and composer Dave Anderson returns with a deeply reflective new release, In Lieu of Flowers, a ten-track album that blends musical homage, personal storytelling, and rich ensemble interplay. The album, out May 20 via LABEL 1 Records, serves as both a tribute and a meditation — honoring jazz luminaries, mentors, lost friends, and family members who have left a lasting imprint on Anderson’s life and artistry.

Rooted in Anderson’s long-standing immersion in the New York jazz scene, In Lieu of Flowers channels the emotional resonance of memory into a set of original compositions spanning modern swingers, ballads, and introspective duets. The album’s title alludes to the tradition of commemorating loved ones through gestures of remembrance — in this case, through music that gives voice to both loss and legacy.

“As a composer, I’ve tried to capture some essence of each inspiring subject,” says Anderson, a veteran of Memo Acevedo’s Manhattan Bridges Orchestra and Pat Petrillo’s Big Rhythm Band. “The music is meant to communicate something essential — both about the person being honored, and about the way we remember and express gratitude, especially when someone is no longer here.”

Anderson performs on both tenor and soprano saxophones throughout the album, supported by a dynamic quartet featuring pianist Grant Richards (recipient of a Chamber Music America New Jazz Works grant), versatile bassist Lorin Cohen (on acoustic and electric), and sought-after drummer Jimmy Macbride. The group’s cohesion allows for expressive freedom within sophisticated compositions, resulting in a modern jazz sound that’s emotionally direct while steeped in tradition.

A Track-by-Track Reflection of Tribute and Influence

The album opens with “Outer Circle,” a cool-toned modern swinger that sets the tone for the record’s fluid ensemble interaction. Each player takes an early spotlight, offering a preview of the album’s balance between structure and improvisation.

“One for Wayne” pays homage to the late, great Wayne Shorter, a formative influence on Anderson’s approach to both saxophone and composition. The track features quicksilver tenor lines, a reflective piano solo by Richards, and a mysterious coda that nods to Shorter’s oblique sensibility.

“Thilmany” is a deeply personal piece written for a family close to Anderson’s own, particularly a childhood peer who passed away young. Anchored by peaceful piano phrases, the tune unfolds with a floating melody and turbulent improvisations, portraying both serenity and sorrow.

In the duet “Sanctuary,” Anderson and Richards capture a quiet intimacy in tribute to Anderson’s late mother. Composed after spending time in a makeshift space for grief and reflection, the piece is spare yet emotionally resonant — a conversation between soprano saxophone and piano that speaks volumes.

“Upwind” offers an energetic lift, its title symbolizing resilience in the face of adversity. Anderson explains the metaphor: “Sometimes, the only option is to sail directly into the wind.” The band charges ahead with bright solos, including Cohen’s first featured statement on the album.

“Lost City” reflects on a visit to Leningrad (now St. Petersburg), a city Anderson found both architecturally beautiful and emotionally heavy, still carrying scars from decades of authoritarian rule. Cohen’s bass work — both as counterpoint and solo voice — enriches the track’s mood of elegiac elegance.

The exuberant “Arms of Maria” honors jazz icon Maria Schneider, with whom Anderson shares an alma mater (University of Minnesota). The tune evokes the grace and depth of Schneider’s compositional voice, as well as her fluid, dance-like conducting style.

“Stell” is a witty yet reverent nod to James Stellmaker, a beloved jazz educator whose students affectionately referred to him by this nickname. Musically, the piece riffs on “Stella by Starlight,” blending homage with playfulness, all while acknowledging Stellmaker’s profound musical and personal influence.

“Ghost Bikes” memorializes James Gregg, a cyclist who died in a tragic accident near Anderson’s Brooklyn home. The title references the ghost bike tradition — white-painted bikes placed at crash sites as public memorials. The piece is a haunting lament, serving as a broader tribute to lives quietly commemorated across city corners.

The album closes with “Sandy’s Ladies,” originally written on guitar and later adapted for quartet. Dedicated to Sandy Carter — a pandemic-era teacher, guitarist, and doting grandfather — the tune captures the warmth and wisdom of a life lived fully across generations and identities.

Looking Backward, Moving Forward

Though its themes often revolve around remembrance, In Lieu of Flowers is forward-looking in spirit. Its compositions embrace a modern harmonic palette, while the performances highlight a quartet deeply attuned to each other’s voices.

Anderson’s playing — lyrical, probing, and steeped in tradition — guides the listener through emotional landscapes that feel both personal and universal. The result is an album that invites reflection, not only on those we’ve lost, but on the continuing influence they have in shaping who we are.

In Lieu of Flowers is available May 20 on LABEL 1 Records via all major streaming platforms and select physical retailers.

JUDY WHITMORE TAKES FLIGHT ON HER FIFTH ALBUM: LET’S FALL IN LOVE

Romance, Glamour, and Big Band Brilliance—Out Now Featuring the Chris Walden Orchestra

Judy Whitmore, vocalist, storyteller, and true renaissance woman, returns with her fifth album, Let’s Fall in Love—a lush and romantic tribute to the Great American Songbook. Backed by the acclaimed Chris Walden Orchestra, the album brings timeless classics into the present with fresh energy and elegance.

Following her critically praised 2024 release Come Fly with Me, Whitmore reunites with Walden—Grammy®-nominated composer, arranger, and conductor—to create a collection that is both nostalgic and sophisticated. Walden’s signature big band arrangements serve as the perfect backdrop for Whitmore’s shimmering vocals.

“All About Jazz” hailed her previous work, asking: “Is she a singer who respects the music, captures its heart, and makes listening to every song an undeniable pleasure? Absolutely.” That spirit continues on Let’s Fall in Love, a musical journey filled with heart, swing, and cinematic beauty.

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A Life as Rich as Her Voice

Judy Whitmore’s artistic journey spans far beyond music. She’s a bestselling novelist, theater producer, and licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a master's in clinical psychology. An accomplished aviator, she once overcame her fear of flying thanks to neighbor John Denver—a spark that led to her piloting Learjets, seaplanes, and even hot air balloons as part of search-and-rescue missions in Aspen.

Though her passions are wide-ranging, music remains her first love. Whitmore currently serves on the boards of both the Pacific Symphony and the Pacific Jazz Orchestra, where she met Walden, who produced this and her previous album. Her contributions to the arts include endowing two orchestral chairs in her family’s name.

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A Dream Team of Musicians

Alongside a 22-piece string section, Let’s Fall in Love features some of Southern California’s top jazz artists:

• Josh Nelson (piano)

• Andrew Synowiec (guitar)

• Peter Erskine (drums)

• Edwin Livingston (bass)

• Wade Culbreath (vibraphone)

• Hendrik Meurkens (harmonica)

• A host of world-class wind, brass, harp, and rhythm players

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The Music

The 12-track album is a sweeping celebration of love, interpreted with warmth and originality. Highlights include:

• “I’ll Take Romance” – A sparkling opener featuring a standout sax solo by Jeff Driskill

• “All of You” – Cole Porter’s sensual classic, made even more sultry by Meurkens’ harmonica

• “It’s All Right with Me” – A haunting rendition underscored by Nelson’s graceful piano

• “A Time for Love” – Whitmore’s minimalist take brings a quiet poignancy to this Johnny Mandel ballad

• “Taking a Chance on Love” – A nod to her theater roots and her very first Broadway production

• “How Long Has This Been Going On” – A childhood favorite, now reimagined as a duet with Ty Taylor of Vintage Trouble

• “The Very Thought of You” – A sensuous vocal paired with lyrical subtlety

• “Crazy He Calls Me”, “More Than You Know”, “I’ve Got a Crush on You”, and “How Deep is the Ocean” – Timeless standards interpreted with depth and grace

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A Voice Meant to Be Heard

Named after Judy Garland, a close friend of her grandfather, Whitmore seems destined for the stage. Whether she’s swinging effortlessly through an upbeat number or delivering a heart-wrenching ballad, her voice brings authenticity and emotion to every note. Paired with Walden’s lush orchestrations and the stellar musicianship of her ensemble, Let’s Fall in Love is a dazzling homage to 20th-century songcraft—and a deeply personal expression of love in all its forms.

The Spontaneous Jam Session – Live at pinkFROG Cafe Vol. 1

A Live Album Celebrating Pure Musical Improvisation

Album Release Date: June 27, 2025
Featured Artists:

• Bass: Marcelo Maccagnan

• Drums: Maxime Cholley

• Electric Guitar: Andrew Cheng

• Keyboard/Piano: Yotam Ishay

• Vocals: Simona Smirnova

• Saxophone: Andrew Denicola

• Tap Percussion: Sandra Kluge

Hosts & Band Leaders: Marcelo Maccagnan & Maxime Cholley

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A Snapshot of Spontaneity

Live at pinkFROG Cafe Vol. 1 captures the raw energy and creativity of Brooklyn’s renowned Spontaneous Jam Session—a weekly musical gathering where improvisation takes center stage. Each Sunday night, co-hosts bassist Marcelo Maccagnan and drummer Maxime Cholley invite fellow musicians to join them at pinkFROG cafe, transforming audience-suggested prompts into original, live compositions.

This debut live album is a direct product of that unique process. Recorded in real time with no rehearsals or pre-written material, it showcases a dynamic ensemble of musicians creating five fully improvised tracks—each inspired by themes provided by the audience and titled after the fact to reflect the spirit of the moment.

Track List:

• A Few More Warm Days

• Echo Park Rising

• Real World Human Convention

• One Part Martyr One Part Fool

• Staring Up at the Moon

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The Recording

What sets this album apart is its commitment to authenticity: no second takes, no planned structures—just pure, in-the-moment collaboration. The musicians respond to one another intuitively, building sonic landscapes shaped by jazz, world music, experimental textures, and the chemistry of the room.

The presence of the audience plays a critical role. Their prompts act as creative spark plugs, turning each performance into a one-of-a-kind shared experience where listeners are just as much a part of the composition as the musicians themselves.

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About The Spontaneous Jam Session

Founded in November 2022, The Spontaneous Jam Session has become a hub for creative exploration in Brooklyn. It brings together a diverse array of artists from jazz, R&B, Indian classical, Middle Eastern traditions, and more—creating a space where real-time collaboration and genre fusion thrive.

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Meet the Hosts

Marcelo Maccagnan
A Brazilian bassist skilled in both electric and upright bass, Marcelo blends jazz with rock, electronic, and Brazilian influences. An active force in the New York scene, he is both a sought-after sideman and a creative bandleader. His 2023 album Night Tales defines his unique style, which he dubs “Progressive Jazz”—modern, bold, and always grounded in improvisation.

Maxime Cholley
Originally from France, Maxime is a versatile drummer, percussionist, and producer who has performed around the world with artists such as Steve Vai, Tigran Hamasyan, and Paul Winter. Known for his innovative polyrhythms and left-handed drum setup, his genre-spanning work includes jazz, pop, world music, and rock. Maxime’s creativity also extends into composition and production, with credits that include Meta (Facebook) and artists like RINI and Simona Smirnova.

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Listen. Witness. Be Part of the Moment.
Live at pinkFROG Cafe Vol. 1 invites you into a one-night-only musical experience—where no script exists, and every note is born from the moment.

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