Keith Jarrett’s New Vienna - A Legendary Solo Concert Captured in Time

New Vienna is the fourth concert recording to be released from Keith Jarrett’s final European solo tour, following Munich 2016, Budapest Concert, and Bordeaux Concert. This latest release takes listeners back to Vienna, a city that holds deep significance in Jarrett's career. Known for his iconic Vienna Concert (recorded at the Vienna State Opera), which he once described as speaking "the language of the flame itself," Jarrett’s return to the Austrian capital in 2016 brought another mesmerizing performance to the world stage. This time, he played in the historic Golden Hall of the Musikverein, an acoustic marvel where Schoenberg, Berg, and Webern once premiered works that reshaped the course of modern music.

New Vienna is a testament to Jarrett’s evolving artistry and mastery of improvisation. This final chapter in his European solo performances marks a shift from the long, sprawling forms that characterized his early solo concerts—such as those in Bremen, Lausanne, Köln, and the original Vienna Concert—to shorter, self-contained pieces. These distinct, contrasting pieces often come together to form a cohesive, impromptu suite. The performance from the Musikverein on July 9, 2016, encapsulates this approach perfectly.

The concert is divided into nine parts, each offering a unique glimpse into Jarrett’s creative process. Part I begins with a spontaneous whirlwind of sound, dense and complex, embodying the impetuous energy of a force of nature. Part II offers a stark contrast, with floating chords and a plangent melody that gradually unfolds. Part III brings rhythm to the forefront, showcasing Jarrett’s remarkable ability to develop interwoven patterns with each hand, a standout example of his technical skill.

Part IV delivers a hymnic, uplifting atmosphere, while Part V transports listeners to a place of pure balladry, seemingly channeled from the ether. In Part VI, the lyrical impulse refracts into something more abstract, only to be followed by Part VII, a tender song that could easily be imagined as a composition for Jarrett's Belonging quartet. Part VIII strips things down to the basics with a bluesy touch, and Part IX combines gospel and country elements, reflecting the vastness of Jarrett’s musical range.

The concert concludes with an evocative rendition of “Somewhere Over The Rainbow”, a favorite encore piece that is phrased slightly differently than previous versions on La Scala, A Multitude of Angels, and Munich 2016. This final performance serves as a fitting close to yet another exceptional night of music.

As Keith Jarrett celebrates his 80th birthday, New Vienna is released as part of the continued legacy of his music. Although Jarrett has not performed live since 2017 due to health issues, his influence on solo piano music remains undiminished. The release of New Vienna—along with the ongoing interest in his past performances, including the 50th anniversary of The Köln Concert—reaffirms Jarrett’s enduring impact on the music world.

Jarrett’s collaboration with ECM Records dates back to 1971, when he recorded Facing You, a pivotal solo piano album that set the stage for his future performances. Facing You featured eight short pieces that were later recognized as a precursor to the genre-defining solo concerts that would follow. In the years since, Jarrett’s solo work has continually pushed the boundaries of improvisation and piano performance, leading to performances that are regarded as some of the most groundbreaking in jazz and contemporary music.

New Vienna is the latest in a series of concert recordings from Jarrett’s final European solo tour. These recordings, including Munich 2016, Budapest Concert, and Bordeaux Concert, showcase Jarrett at the peak of his abilities—creating new music in real time, while continually refining the solo piano idiom he had pioneered in the early 1970s.

Even after Jarrett’s performing career was cut short in 2018, ECM has continued to release exceptional albums drawn from a vast trove of recordings spanning genres and decades. These have included the intimate recordings from the Deer Head Inn, a venue that marked the beginning of his leadership as a piano trio artist. The album The Old Country features Jarrett with Gary Peacock and Paul Motian, offering a compelling snapshot of what Jarrett called "what jazz is all about."

With New Vienna, the 50th anniversary of The Köln Concert, and the continued release of unreleased and live material, Jarrett’s artistry remains a significant force in contemporary music. As noted by the committee citation for his Polar Music Prize, Jarrett’s solo performances and recordings have "lifted piano improvisation as an art form to new, unimaginable heights." New Vienna is yet another brilliant testament to his extraordinary musical journey.

Change Returns with Embrace: A New Chapter in the Legendary Band’s Soulful Evolution

Change, founded in 1980 by Mauro Malavasi, Jacques Fred Petrus, Davide Romani, and Paolo Gianolio, is a legendary band on the international soul/disco scene, renowned for launching iconic voices such as Luther Vandross and Jocelyn Brown.

Their debut album, The Glow of Love, was produced in 1979 between Bologna and New York. Widely regarded as one of the greatest disco/soul/funk LPs of all time, it achieved enormous international success. It was the first Italian production in this genre to enter the Billboard 200 chart, peaking at #29 and earning a Gold Record. The singles “A Lover’s Holiday” (Top 40 on the Billboard Hot 100), “Searching,” and the title track “The Glow of Love” (which reached #2 in Italy) solidified the album’s global impact.

So influential was the record that in 2001, Janet Jackson sampled the title track for her hit “All for You,” which went on to win the Grammy Award for Best R&B Recording.

Throughout the 1980s, Change released five additional albums:

• Miracles (1981)

• Sharing Your Love (1982)

• This Is Your Time (1983)

• Change of Heart (1984, produced by Jimmy Jam & Terry Lewis)

• Turn on Your Radio (1985)

In 2010, the previously unreleased album Change Your Mind—recorded in the 1990s and produced by Davide Romani—was finally released. In 2018, after a 33-year hiatus, Love 4 Love marked the band’s comeback. Produced by Romani and Stefano Colombo, the album introduced vocalist Tanya Michelle Smith and featured eight original tracks written by Romani, Malavasi, Colombo, and Elio Baldi Cantù. The singles included:

• “Hit or Miss” (remixed by Soulpersona)

• “Love 4 Love” (also remixed by Joey Negro)

• “Make Me (Go Crazy)” (remixed by Opolopo)

Embrace (2025), credited to Change feat. Tanya Michelle Smith, represents the natural musical evolution of Love 4 Love. Originally conceived in 2019 as Tanya Michelle Smith’s solo album, it was later reviewed by producer Stefano Colombo together with Mauro Malavasi, who approved the material and authorized the use of the name “Change.” Malavasi also contributed to the cover design and selected the album title: Embrace.

The first single, “Sunrise Forever,” was released on January 10. The remix by Michael Gray reached #1 on Traxsource and ranked high on the UK Soul Chart.

The album’s release was postponed when Davide Romani and Stefano Colombo decided to complete an unfinished demo from the Love 4 Love sessions. Some original parts were lost due to a corrupted backup, but in 2025 the track was completely rearranged with a newly recorded bassline by Romani and fresh backing vocals.

On April 4, the single “Got 2 Get Up” was released across all digital platforms, receiving strong radio airplay across Europe and entering the UK Soul Chart. On May 16, a remix by renowned Italian duo Micky More & Andy Tee will be released in anticipation of the album.

Embrace includes ten original tracks and one cover. The album will be available on CD and vinyl, distributed by Self Distribuzione Srl. The first 500 vinyl copies will be issued as a limited “Expanded Edition,” including the full album plus a bonus 12” single with Michael Gray’s remixes of “Sunrise Forever.”

Chester Thompson – Powerhouse (1971) [Black Jazz Records Reissue]

Bay Area Organ Grooves, Raw and Unfiltered

Before joining legendary acts like Tower of Power and Santana, keyboardist Chester Thompson had already laid the groundwork for greatness. His 1971 debut album Powerhouse—originally released on the revered and highly collectible Black Jazz Records label—remains one of the label’s rarest gems. Now, over five decades later, this electric jazz-funk essential has been newly remastered and reissued, giving listeners another chance to experience the raw energy and virtuosity that put Thompson on the map.

Long considered one of the most accomplished and decorated keyboardists to come out of the Bay Area music scene, Thompson’s resume spans decades of genre-defining work. But on Powerhouse, recorded a few years before his breakout with Tower of Power, he’s front and center—tearing through grooves on a Hammond B-3 organ with ferocious command and soulful flair.

Backing Thompson on this blazing session is a tight ensemble of heavy hitters:

• Rudolph Johnson (Black Jazz Records alum) on sax

• Raymond Pounds (Pharoah Sanders, Stevie Wonder, Pointer Sisters) on drums

• Al Hall Jr. (Johnny Hammond, Freddie Hubbard, Eddie Harris) on trombone

The album features just four extended tracks, spread out across two sides—each one a deep dive into electric jazz fusion, funk-infused improvisation, and tight, relentless grooves.

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Tracklist – Powerhouse (1971)

Side One

1. Mr. T

2. Trip One

Side Two

1. Weird Harold

2. Powerhouse

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With liner notes featuring reflections from Tower of Power drummer Dave Garibaldi and fellow Bay Area keyboardist Todd Cochran (aka Bayeté), this reissue also includes fresh context for Thompson’s influence on the sound of modern jazz and funk.

The limited edition pressing comes on stunning blue with black swirl vinyl, capped at just 750 copies—a must-have for jazz vinyl collectors and Hammond organ enthusiasts.

Jackie DeShannon – Love Forever: Demo Recordings 1966–1968 (CD Release)

Unearthed Gems from a Pop Pioneer’s Creative Vault

The voice behind timeless classics like “What the World Needs Now Is Love” and “Put a Little Love in Your Heart”, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter Jackie DeShannon is widely regarded as one of the most influential yet underappreciated songwriters of the 1960s. With Love Forever: Demo Recordings 1966–1968, fans are finally treated to a rare, authorized look inside DeShannon’s prolific creative period with 16 intimate demo recordings, 10 of which are previously unreleased anywhere.

DeShannon’s musical journey began in rural Kentucky, singing gospel and country music as a child and teen. By the late 1950s, she had evolved into a rockabilly performer and radio host. But it was her move to Los Angeles and signing with Liberty Records and their publishing arm, Metric Music, that ignited her career. At Metric, Jackie collaborated with songwriting heavyweights like Sharon Sheeley, Jack Nitzsche, Randy Newman, and Jimmy Page, penning material that would come to define a generation of California pop-rock and folk-soul fusion.

As part of Metric’s staff, DeShannon recorded countless demos—rough, personal, and often experimental cuts meant to showcase songs for other artists or future studio sessions. Until now, these demos have only appeared unofficially or in scattered releases. Love Forever is the first comprehensive, authorized collection of her late-'60s demo work, capturing a pivotal moment as the decade shifted toward introspective, singer-songwriter-driven pop.

These tracks reveal Jackie’s introspective side, balancing poetic vulnerability with melodic inventiveness. Richie Unterberger’s thoughtful liner notes include personal reflections from Jackie herself, along with never-before-seen photos from her private archive, giving the release both emotional and historical weight.

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Track Listing – Love Forever: Demo Recordings 1966–1968:

1. Where the Roses Go

2. Nicole

3. Children & Flowers

4. Only You Can Free My Mind

5. The Greener Side

6. More Than I Am

7. Effervescent Blue

8. Love Forever Stay

9. A Lot of Lovin’

10. Rose Colored Glasses

11. Girl in Love

12. Distraction

13. More Time in the Day

14. No, My Love

15. There Comes a Time

16. It Shines on You Too

Petula Clark – Solitude & Sunshine: The Songs of Rod McKuen (Expanded Edition)

A Long-Awaited Collaboration Finally Sees the Spotlight

When two artistic legends meet, the results can take time—but they’re always worth the wait. Now, nearly 20 years after its original limited release, Solitude & Sunshine: The Songs of Rod McKuen by Grammy-winning vocalist Petula Clark is finally getting a proper retail release in an Expanded Edition CD, featuring six bonus tracks, five of which have never been heard before.

This deeply personal collection stems from a friendship that began in 1960s France, where British pop icon Petula Clark met poet-singer-songwriter Rod McKuen. Already a global sensation with hits in both English and French, Petula found in Rod a kindred spirit. McKuen, meanwhile, called Clark his favorite female vocalist and had long envisioned a full album of his songs sung by her—much like his famed 1969 collaboration with Frank Sinatra, A Man Alone.

Their mutual admiration turned into creative synergy. After Petula recorded McKuen’s poignant “The Wind of Change” and the heartfelt “I Think of You,” the idea of a full-length project was publicly announced—but delayed for decades due to scheduling conflicts. It wasn’t until 2005 that the stars finally aligned. Following Petula’s acclaimed stage runs in Blood Brothers and Sunset Boulevard, she and Rod met again—this time in the studio.

Recorded at Hollywood’s Private Island Trax with additional sessions in Geneva, the album features 20 songs from McKuen’s rich catalog, brought to life by one of England’s most iconic voices. Originally issued in a 14-track limited edition through fan channels, the expanded version now brings this emotional and elegant tribute to the wider public for the first time.

In addition to newly uncovered material, the CD includes heartfelt liner notes written by both Rod McKuen and Petula Clark, as well as rare photos from the sessions—a true keepsake for collectors and fans of classic vocal pop.

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Track Listing:

1. Rock Gently

2. People Change

3. Love’s Been Good to Me

4. The Importance of the Rose (with Rod McKuen)

5. I Never Go There Anymore

6. Moving Day

7. Listen to the Warm

8. It’s Raining

9. The Single Woman

10. Where Are We Now (with Rod McKuen)

11. Seasons in the Sun

12. As I Love My Own

13. About the Time

14. Solitude’s My Home

15. Simple Gifts (Bonus)

16. Love Is (with Rod McKuen) *

17. Three *

18. Song Without Words *

19. The Silver Apples of the Moon (with Rod McKuen) *

20. If You Go Away *

*Previously unreleased bonus tracks

British Jazz Producer Daylight Robbery Unveils Concept Album Third Island Suite — A Cinematic Blend of Jazz, Fusion, and Hip-Hop

British jazz innovator Daylight Robbery returns with a bold new release, Third Island Suite (aka Third Eye Land), a concept album that challenges genre boundaries while diving deep into themes of illusion, identity, and perception. Set for release on May 9, 2025, via Melting Pot Music, this LP marks a powerful transatlantic collaboration with acclaimed New York pianist and producer Nick Marks.

Best known for his Cinematic Chromatics trilogy and film score work, Marks brings a lush, story-driven sensibility to the project. Together with Daylight Robbery, the duo crafts a sound that fuses Spiritual Jazz, Jazz Fusion, and Hip-Hop into an immersive narrative experience.

Inspired by John Fowles’ metafiction classic The Magus, Third Island Suite acts as a musical mirror to the novel’s psychological twists, blurring the lines between reality and illusion. Across its runtime, the album plays with layered soundscapes, sudden mood shifts, and sonic sleights-of-hand that keep listeners questioning what they’re hearing — and why.

The standout track “Secret Passage” sets a cinematic tone with hypnotic Rhodes chords, noir-tinged atmospheres, and gritty breakbeats. It's jazz in slow motion — something that might soundtrack a shadowy Guy Ritchie scene or an experimental indie noir. Understated but captivating, it captures the album’s spirit of mystery and slow-burn drama.

A true cross-border creation, Third Island Suite came together with Daylight Robbery based in London and Marks working from Manhattan. Despite the physical distance, the project thrived on mutual trust and shared aesthetic instincts. In a recent feature with The Sharp Notes, both artists emphasized the organic evolution of the music, driven by late-night exchanges, deep listening sessions, and a shared fascination with storytelling through sound.

Early single “Invitation Unknown” has already gained traction on BBC 6 Music’s New Music Fix, Jazz FM, and Soho Radio, signaling strong buzz among tastemakers in the jazz and underground music scenes.

Adding a visual dimension to the album’s themes, the cover artwork by Cologne-based artist Jens Roth reinforces its duality-driven ethos — merging sound and vision into one unified, dreamlike world.

With Third Island Suite, Daylight Robbery cements his reputation as a boundary-pusher in contemporary jazz. It’s not just an album — it’s an invitation to lose yourself in the unknown.

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Release Date: May 9, 2025
Label: Melting Pot Music
Format: LP / Digital
Tags: Jazz / Contemporary Jazz

Brittany Davis Illuminates the World Through Sound with “Sun and Moon”

Seattle-based musician Brittany Davis has unveiled “Sun and Moon,” the second single from their forthcoming album, Black Thunder, set for release on June 13 via Loosegroove Records. This six-minute spiritual jazz meditation delves into Davis's unique perception of the sun and moon, shaped by their experience of being blind since birth. Davis explains, “This song represents what it feels like for me to know of the sun and the moon yet not experience either one of them visually.”

“Sun and Moon” follows the album's initial offering, “Amid the Blackout of the Night,” released in April. Both tracks showcase Davis's ability to translate profound personal experiences into rich, sonic landscapes.

Black Thunder was recorded live over two days at Studio Litho in Seattle, capturing an improvisational synergy between Davis on piano and vocals, Evan Flory-Barnes on bass, and D’Vonne Lewis on drums. The album's 17 tracks are steeped in Davis's encounters with the world, presenting a poignant and cathartic work.

Davis's musical journey has been marked by critical acclaim. Their 2023 debut album, Image Issues, was lauded by NPR Music as “a potent expression of hope,” and American Songwriter praised Davis's powerful voice and talent. With Black Thunder, Davis moves away from the contemporary soul-funk sound of their debut, opting for a fully live, organic performance that showcases their stylistic maturation and versatility.

As a blind, non-binary artist, Davis brings a unique perspective to their music, using sound as a means to navigate and interpret the world. Their work challenges conventional narratives and invites listeners into a realm of pure feeling and expression.

Rick James’ “Collected” Digs Deep Into the Funk Legend’s Wild Ride

Funk fans, mark your calendars. A new Rick James retrospective is dropping June 6, and it’s not just another greatest hits package — it’s a full-on celebration of a music icon who did it his way (and then some). Collected, part of Universal's long-running European series now released through Music on CD, is a 3-disc powerhouse packed with the hits, deep cuts, unreleased material, and unexpected cameos that made Rick James an unforgettable force in funk, soul, and pop.

More Than Just "Super Freak"

Sure, Collected brings all the essentials: “You and I,” “Bustin’ Out,” “Give It to Me Baby,” “Cold Blooded,” and of course, “Super Freak.” But it goes way beyond the usual — this set dives into Rick’s early recordings, including his time with The Mynah Birds (featuring a pre-fame Neil Young!) and the obscure funk-rock group The Great White Cane. You’ll even hear tracks he produced for Stone City Band, collaborations with Chaka Khan, Eddie Murphy, and Smokey Robinson, plus a goldmine of 12" mixes that never made it to CD before.

Rick James: From Buffalo to the Big Time

Born James Ambrose Johnson Jr. in Buffalo, New York, Rick’s story is one for the ages — raised by a single mom who hustled hard to raise eight kids, he eventually dodged the U.S. Navy and landed in Canada. There, under the name Ricky James Matthews, he got swept into Toronto’s music scene, even jamming with Ronnie Hawkins and Levon Helm. By 1966, he was signed to Motown with The Mynah Birds, who might’ve been stars if it weren’t for some Navy-related drama that saw Rick sent to serve time.

Motown eventually brought him back, and after a few false starts, Rick hit it big with his band Stone City Band and the Gordy label. His blend of hard funk, soul, and rock — what he famously dubbed punk-funk — was groundbreaking. And while he never quite reached crossover superstardom, his sound left an undeniable mark on the likes of Prince, Teena Marie, and The Mary Jane Girls.

From MTV Snubs to Chappelle’s Show Fame

Rick was vocal — about racism in the music industry, drug policy, and MTV’s early exclusion of Black artists. In the ‘80s, he even produced the unlikely pop hit “Party All the Time” for Eddie Murphy. And just when it seemed his time in the spotlight had faded, a new generation met him through Dave Chappelle’s legendary “I’m Rick James, b**!” skits**, based on true stories told by Charlie Murphy.

Sadly, Rick passed away in 2004 at just 56, but not before reminding the world how unforgettable he truly was.

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Rick James – Collected (Out June 6)

This 3-CD set is a must-own for fans, collectors, and newcomers alike. With over 45 tracks, including 10 that are brand-new to CD, Collected is a funky, raw, and unapologetically Rick James ride through music history.

TRÍADA: Argentina’s Rising Trio Blending Tradition with Modern Flair

Emerging from Buenos Aires, TRÍADA is a captivating Argentinian trio redefining classic Latin sounds with youthful energy and heartfelt authenticity. Comprising Julia Percowicz (vocals), Aylen Reynoso (guitar), and Diamela Spina (percussion and vocals), the group formed in 2023 while attending a performing arts school. Their bond, both personal and musical, inspired their name—TRÍADA—symbolizing a three-note chord and their sisterhood.

At just 19, TRÍADA breathes new life into timeless tracks, blending genres like bossa nova, jazz, folklore, and acoustic singer-songwriter traditions. Their breakout came with a rendition of João Gilberto’s “O Pato,” which amassed over 2 million views on Instagram, showcasing their ability to infuse classics with fresh perspectives. 

Their debut EP, De Versiones y Alma, released under Verve Records and Mercury Records, features reimagined songs from artists across Uruguay, Brazil, the UK, and Argentina. Notable tracks include “Sale La Luna,” a Spanish adaptation of Liana Flores’ “Rises the Moon,” and “Rompí,” a heartfelt cover of Sofía Alvez’s song, reflecting themes of love and self-discovery. 

TRÍADA's music is a testament to their deep-rooted connection and shared experiences. Whether performing in intimate settings or drawing inspiration from the serene beaches of Villa Gesell, their sound is both nostalgic and innovative. As they continue to evolve, TRÍADA remains committed to their Argentinian and broader Latin roots, aiming to share their unique blend of tradition and modernity with the world.

Verve Records Revives Iconic Verve Remixed Series After 12-Year Hiatus With Star-Studded Compilation

Verve Records has resurrected one of its most forward-thinking and fan-beloved projects: the Verve Remixed series. After a 12-year silence, the groundbreaking fusion of classic jazz and contemporary electronic sounds returns with Verve Remixed: The Hits, a genre-spanning anthology that bridges generations through music. This latest installment compiles 20 standout tracks from the series' vibrant history, along with one brand-new, ethereal reinterpretation.

Launched in 2002, the Verve Remixed series invited world-renowned DJs and producers to dig into Verve’s vast archives and reimagine timeless jazz recordings. The result was an entirely new soundscape where Billie Holiday mingled with Bassnectar, and Nina Simone met Felix Da Housecat. These albums didn’t just remix songs—they revitalized jazz itself, inviting younger audiences to discover legends through the pulse of modern production.

Now, in Verve Remixed: The Hits, Verve brings together an eclectic array of artists and remixes that span two decades. The collection includes iconic contributions from Diplo, Toro y Moi, Gotan Project, Masters At Work, and The Postal Service, among others. Tracks from jazz immortals like Astrud Gilberto, Dizzy Gillespie, and Billie Holiday take on new life, layered with beats, synths, and textures from some of the most innovative names in electronic music.

A New Highlight: Billie Holiday Reimagined by Henry Green

Perhaps the most compelling moment on the album is its closing track—a brand new remix that proves Verve Remixed is not just a nostalgic re-release, but a living, evolving body of work. U.K.-based producer and singer-songwriter Henry Green offers a hauntingly beautiful rework of Billie Holiday’s “You Go To My Head.” Known for his deeply emotional sound and collaborations with artists like Kygo and Christian Löffler, Green imbues the track with soft electronic flourishes and ambient warmth, allowing Holiday’s legendary voice to float in an almost dreamlike atmosphere. It’s a love-struck reinterpretation that retains the original's aching romance while gently modernizing its sonic palette.

A Series That Changed Jazz for a New Generation

When Verve Remixed debuted, it redefined how people experienced jazz. It didn't merely serve as a curiosity—it became a movement, a new way to experience storied recordings in the context of contemporary culture. For Gen Z and millennials, the series was often their first exposure to jazz legends like Sarah Vaughan, Louis Armstrong, and Ella Fitzgerald. These remixes, in many cases, became gateway tracks that led listeners back to the roots of jazz through the series’ companion albums, Verve Unmixed, which featured the untouched originals.

The return of Verve Remixed with this Hits compilation comes at a moment when genre-crossing music and rediscovery are at an all-time high, thanks to streaming platforms and renewed interest in analog and vinyl culture. Verve’s willingness to push boundaries continues to pay off.

Looking Ahead

Though Verve Remixed: The Hits is technically the eighth installment in the franchise, its arrival feels like a rebirth. With a growing wave of jazz-forward artists like Jon Batiste and resurgence in vinyl and analog appreciation, jazz is once again becoming a cultural touchstone. Verve’s catalog, rooted in rich legacy and timeless artistry, is the perfect wellspring from which today’s producers can draw.

This revival doesn’t just celebrate the past—it ignites the future. Jazz purists and remix fans alike can rejoice: Verve Remixed is back, and it sounds better than ever.

Pieces Of A Dream Reaffirm Their Legacy With the Powerful New Album We Got This

For nearly five decades, Pieces Of A Dream have stood as one of Contemporary Jazz’s most enduring and beloved acts. With their unmistakable blend of smooth grooves, jazz sophistication, and infectious funk, the Philadelphia-based trio has crafted an extraordinary legacy that continues to resonate with generations of fans. Their latest release, We Got This, their 26th album, is more than a musical statement—it’s a celebration of resilience, brotherhood, and the timeless joy of bringing people together through sound.

“What’s the point of doing what we do if we can’t bring joy and unity to others?” asks Curtis Harmon, drummer and co-founder of the group. “Let’s face it, it’s gratifying to see people gathered together smiling, dancing, and genuinely enjoying themselves.”

It’s a mission that has guided the band since its inception in the late '70s, when Harmon and pianist James Lloyd began making music together in middle school. Over the years, the group has earned accolades, performed with legends, and sold over three million albums. Yet at its core, the heart of Pieces Of A Dream remains unchanged: the drive to use music as a vehicle for unity, healing, and good times.

“Our quest as composers and performers has always been to utilize the power of music to bring people from all walks of life together,” adds Lloyd.

A Sonic Testament to Brotherhood and Spirit

We Got This captures the full essence of Pieces Of A Dream’s sound—grooves that make your head nod, melodies that stay with you, and rhythms that move the soul. Featuring ten original tracks, the album is a tour de force of jazz-funk energy, spiritual introspection, and joyful celebration.

“It’s all there,” says Lloyd. “Grooves, catchy melodies, moving bass lines, heartfelt solos, sensuality, spirituality. Something to dance to, to relax to, to reflect to.”

The title We Got This carries special meaning. Lloyd shares that during the creation of the album, he faced personal challenges and leaned heavily on Harmon and longtime saxophonist Tony Watson Jr. to bring the project to life. “I couldn’t contribute as much as I’m used to. I’m grateful to my brothers for having my back,” he reveals. That spirit of camaraderie is woven into every note of the album.

A Legacy That Grooves

The album opens with “Headed Out,” a bright, energetic track showcasing the interplay between Lloyd’s smooth piano lines and Watson’s charismatic saxophone. “It’s always fun doing this sort of duet with Tony,” says Lloyd. “He’s beyond family. He’s been with us for 16 years now, and he constantly brings fresh energy and ideas.”

The title track, “We Got This,” is the group’s first single and a rhythmic powerhouse. Harmon’s drums drive the groove, delivering a statement of confidence and musical mastery. “This is us saying, ‘Don’t worry. We’re in control. We’ve got this,’” says Harmon.

Watson also shines with his R&B-tinged “I’m On My Way,” inspired by a childhood immersed in great music and jazz tradition. “Being in this band has been a dream come true,” he shares. “Curt and James work so well together because they truly listen—not just to each other, but to the people around them.”

From Meditative to Joyful: A Full Spectrum Experience

The musical range on We Got This is expansive. From the intimate ballad “Take A Stroll,” which Lloyd calls “a sequel to our song Night Vision,” to the high-energy banger “Be There For You,” co-written by Watson, Harmon, and Chris “Big Dog” Davis, the album spans emotions and tempos with ease.

“Cloud 9” brings a euphoric, top-down-driving vibe, while “Skyway Bridge” offers a Latin-tinged groove inspired by a scenic drive in Florida. Watson, who’s long been fascinated with dolphins, imagines a future career as a dolphin trainer—fitting, since his saxophone could probably lure them to the surface.

The album closes with “Moving and Grooving,” a track Lloyd describes as “Smooth Jazz meets The Black Eyed Peas.” It’s an uplifting finale that feels like a nod to the band's 50-year legacy and the vibrant future still ahead.

A Journey Decades in the Making

The story of Pieces Of A Dream began with three young talents—Curtis Harmon, James Lloyd, and Cedric Napoleon—forming a jazz ensemble at Ada Lewis Middle School. Guided by Harmon’s father, jazz musician Danny Harmon, they steeped themselves in the sounds of legends like Oscar Peterson and the Modern Jazz Quartet. Their name, inspired by Stanley Turrentine’s Pieces of Dreams, became prophetic.

Discovered by the great Grover Washington Jr., who produced their debut album, POD quickly rose in prominence. From appearing on the School Daze soundtrack to opening for Miles Davis and backing James Brown, their musical resume is legendary.

“Grover taught us to let the music breathe,” Harmon recalls. “And always be humble. Every fan matters.”

Mentorship and Giving Back

Mentorship has become a pillar of POD’s philosophy. They’ve nurtured talents like the late Joey DeFrancesco and young phenom Justin Lee Schultz, continuing the jazz tradition of giving back.

“We love speaking at schools, mentoring, and helping up-and-coming artists,” says Lloyd. “We see it as our duty to keep this art form alive.”

Carrying the Torch into the Future

With classics like “Warm Weather,” “Mount Airy Groove,” and “Fo Fi Fo,” Pieces Of A Dream laid a strong foundation. Their more recent projects—In The Moment (2013), All In (2015), Just Funkin’ Around (2017), On Another Note (2019), and Fired Up! (2021)—have only solidified their place in the jazz pantheon.

“Our talent is God-given,” says Harmon. “Our fans and the DJs who support us have kept us going.”

As they approach their 50th anniversary in 2026, Pieces Of A Dream show no signs of slowing down. We Got This is proof that not only do they still “got it”—they’re evolving, inspiring, and lifting spirits one track at a time.

“Whether you want to dance, cry, relax, or reflect,” Harmon concludes, “there’s something on this album for you.”

Ari Joshua, Ray Paczkowski & Russ Lawton Reimagine Hendrix’s “Voodoo Chile” in Psychedelic Powerhouse Jam

When guitarist Ari Joshua joins forces with drummer Russ Lawton and keyboardist Ray Paczkowski, expect sparks to fly. The electrifying trio—dubbed RAaR—unleashes a powerful, soul-soaked reimagining of Jimi Hendrix’s legendary “Voodoo Chile,” available March 14 via Music Factory Records. With deep roots in improvisation and psychedelic rock, their version is both a fiery homage and a bold reinvention.

The track channels the raw spirit of Hendrix, but this is no mere cover. Joshua’s searing guitar leads, Lawton’s pocket-perfect grooves, and Paczkowski’s swirling Hammond organ lines collide in a one-take performance that captures the essence of a live jam. The result: a timeless trip through blues, soul, and cosmic improvisation.

“You don’t just cover Hendrix—you summon his spirit,” says Joshua. “This was one take. No pre-meditation. Just raw, 1960s electricity through our own lens.”

The RAaR Sound: Where Experience Meets Exploration

Lawton and Paczkowski—longtime members of the Trey Anastasio Band—bring decades of touring and recording experience. Joshua, a fearless genre-defying guitarist, blends jazz, rock, and psychedelic sounds with deep emotional resonance. Together, they make “Voodoo Chile” feel like a lost treasure from the golden era of psych-rock.

A Legacy of Exploratory Releases

“Voodoo Chile” is the latest in a string of imaginative RAaR tracks, including:

• “Star Lord” – A cosmic journey of raw jam energy.

• “Father Time” – Locked-in groove, deep and hypnotic.

• “Rae of Light” – A moving organ-driven tribute.

• “For Ray” – Highlighting Paczkowski’s soulful touch.

• “Audio Bicycle Day” – Psychedelic textures in full bloom.

• “The Bernie Meme” – A funky, playful genre mashup.

Other standout releases from Music Factory Records include “Star Light Mountain,” “Kambo Wambo,” “Burlington Coat Factory,” “Waltz of 1000 Stars,” and “The Saga of Milly and Fee.”

Ari Joshua is a boundary-pushing guitarist with an ever-growing catalog of adventurous music. Through collaborations with Robert Glasper, Skerik, Delvon Lamarr, and members of the Trey Anastasio Band, he’s carved out a unique space in modern fusion. As the founder of Music Factory Records and the Music Factory School, he continues to inspire through both performance and education.

Lao Tizer: Blurring Boundaries, Building Bridges, and Redefining Jazz in the 21st Century

Lao Tizer, a Colorado-born, LA-based keyboardist, is a shining example of what it means to be a modern jazz musician—one who thrives on diversity, collaboration, and fearless innovation. In a musical landscape where rigid genre lines are fading, Tizer doesn’t just cross boundaries—he erases them entirely.

Raised in a household rich with sonic variety, Tizer credits his early exposure to a broad spectrum of music for shaping the genre-spanning vision he now brings to the stage.

“My dad had a huge music collection. Classical, world music, Motown, Buddy Holly, Ravi Shankar, Janis Joplin—it was all there,” he recalls. “Ironically, jazz was the one thing I didn’t grow up with.”

That changed when, as a teenager, he took a gamble on a Columbia House mail-order deal and wound up with two Miles Davis records: Kind of Blue and Miles & Quincy Live at Montreux. That spontaneous purchase turned out to be life-altering.

“I remember one Sunday morning it just hit me—there was this entire other universe of sound and freedom I hadn’t tapped into. Jazz felt like it was breaking all the rules in the best possible way.”

From that moment forward, Tizer poured his classical piano background into jazz exploration. By high school, he was self-producing albums. After graduation, he moved to LA, bypassed formal music school, and instead immersed himself in the real-world rigor of live performance. Studying privately with acclaimed piano teacher Terry Trotter, he began gigging with seasoned players who challenged him to evolve fast.

“There’s no better education than being the weakest link on the bandstand,” Tizer laughs. “That’s how you grow.”

Finding His Voice—and a Formula That Resonates

Inspired by The Pat Metheny Group and their seamless blend of composed form and open improvisation, Tizer began assembling his own band at just 19. Over the years, The Lao Tizer Band has developed into a powerhouse ensemble, merging modern jazz with funk, world, rock, soul, and even classical flavors.

Their ever-evolving lineup has featured some of the most elite names in contemporary music:

• GRAMMY-winner Eric Marienthal (saxophone)

• Emmy-winner Chieli Minucci (guitar)

• Senegalese bassist Cheikh N'Doye

• Violinist Karen Briggs (Stanley Clarke)

• Drumming phenom Gene Coye (Hiromi)

• GRAMMY-winning percussionist Munyungo Jackson (Stevie Wonder)

Their performances have graced legendary stages from The Baked Potato in LA to international jazz festivals like Cape Town, Java, Atlanta, and even the prestigious Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival.

With six albums under his belt, Tizer continues to evolve, never content with standing still.

“For me, having your own voice as an artist and composer is the most important thing. I’ve always tried to stay true to what brought me here.”

A New Chapter: Vocal Explorations and Amplify

Tizer’s 2018 album Songs from the Swinghouse was a bold detour: a mix of original instrumentals and jazz-inspired vocal covers of U2, Led Zeppelin, and Cat Stevens classics. It reached the Top 10 on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz chart and showcased his ability to reimagine the familiar without losing his identity.

“Until then, we’d only done instrumentals. Covering ‘Ramble On’ and ‘Pride (In the Name of Love)’ really pushed us creatively.”

Now, he’s set to go even further with his forthcoming album Amplify, a collection of original vocal songs and instrumentals designed to broaden the band’s sound while retaining their jazz DNA.

“It’s not strictly a jazz record, though jazz is in the DNA. We’ve got five original vocal tracks, four instrumentals, and some new faces in the mix.”

Notably, Amplify features:

• Saxophonist/flutist Danny Janklow (MONKestra)

• Bassist Anthony Crawford (Erykah Badu), sharing duties with N’Doye

• A horn section and background vocalists

• And in a surprising twist, Elliott Yamin of American Idol fame handling lead vocals

“Elliott’s a phenomenal singer—soulful, expressive, and totally up for the challenge. The music’s a stretch from his usual vibe, but he absolutely crushed it.”

Redefining What Jazz Can Be

For Tizer, the goal is simple: connect. And in doing so, challenge the very definition of jazz.

“Artists like Snarky Puppy, Kamasi Washington, and Robert Glasper have proven that genre-bending is not only possible—it’s the future. If it grooves and has melody, people will listen.”

And they are listening. Tizer notes that his audience has diversified significantly, with younger fans now showing up in force.

“There’s a real renaissance happening. 20- and 30-somethings are filling seats. That’s vital if we want jazz to live and breathe for generations to come.”

With Amplify, Tizer isn’t just building on his foundation—he’s leaping into new territory, guided by instinct, inspired by collaboration, and rooted in fearless creativity.

“I say forget the boundaries. Just make good music and try to connect with as many listeners as you can.”

Kristin Korb Honors Eurythmics Legacy with Jazz Reimagining on New Album ‘Sweet Dreams’

American jazz bassist and vocalist Kristin Korb, now based in Copenhagen, has released her 11th album, Sweet Dreams, a heartfelt and masterfully crafted tribute to the music of Annie Lennox and Eurythmics. Dropped on October 25, 2024 via Giant Sheep Music, this 12-track collection reinterprets iconic Eurythmics songs through the lens of Korb’s deep jazz sensibilities—paying homage while infusing the music with fresh energy and emotional depth.

A Personal Tribute from a Lifelong Fan

Kristin Korb grew up during the golden age of MTV, with Eurythmics' genre-defying sound and Annie Lennox’s magnetic vocals becoming a foundational influence on her musical upbringing. Years later, Korb has translated that inspiration into Sweet Dreams, an album that balances reverence with reinvention.

“Annie Lennox was a force—powerful, visually striking, vocally fearless. That stayed with me,” says Korb. “This project is more than a tribute. It’s a return to the music that first sparked my creativity, filtered through who I’ve become as a jazz artist.”

Jazz Meets Synthpop: A Cross-Genre Conversation

Rather than offering straightforward covers, Sweet Dreams dives deep into reinterpretation. Each track is elegantly rearranged, highlighting the harmonic depth and rhythmic possibilities within the original compositions. With upright bass in hand, Korb navigates between lead vocals and rhythmic foundations, delivering performances that are both technically impressive and emotionally intimate.

The album bridges the cool detachment of 1980s synthpop with the warmth, swing, and improvisational flow of modern jazz. Longtime collaborators Magnus Hjorth (piano) and Snorre Kirk (drums) provide a telepathic rhythm section, locking in with Korb on every phrase.

The album’s rich soundscape is rounded out by top-tier Scandinavian jazz talent, including:

• Mathias Heise – Danish harmonica virtuoso, adding lyrical elegance and tonal color

• Karl-Martin Almqvist – Swedish saxophone heavyweight, bringing a soulful edge

• Steen Nikolaj Hansen – Danish trombone master, known for his smooth phrasing

• Yohan Ramon – Cuban percussionist whose rhythmic textures give the project a global pulse

Track Selection: An Intimate Curation

Inside the album booklet, Korb shares the stories behind each selection—why these 12 tracks spoke to her and how she approached their transformation. Whether it’s the brooding title track “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)”, the emotive balladry of “Here Comes the Rain Again”, or the upbeat bounce of “Would I Lie to You?”, each reinterpretation is carefully constructed to balance nostalgia and innovation.

For Jazz and Eurythmics Fans Alike

Sweet Dreams invites jazz lovers to revisit the 1980s with new ears and gives Eurythmics fans a sophisticated entry point into jazz. It’s a meeting of musical minds and eras—a concept album that resonates emotionally while standing strong as a technical jazz showcase.

Claude9 Unveils 'Clouds So Low': A Chill, Soulful Prelude to New Album ‘Chords of Love’

Austin-based electronic-synthpop pioneer Claude9 returns with a dreamy, soul-stirring single that signals a new chapter in his genre-bending musical journey. His latest track, “Clouds So Low,” is the first single from his forthcoming album ‘Chords of Love’, via indie label New Human Music. This mellow, melodic offering seamlessly blends ambient textures à la Brian Eno with downtempo breakbeat and trip-hop grooves, resulting in a soundscape both nostalgic and futuristic.

A Soundtrack for Stillness and Wonder

“Clouds So Low” isn’t just a song—it’s a meditative voyage. With its chillwave ambiance, vocoder-laced vocals, and the warm, breathy tones of Claude9’s electric melodica, the track glides like low-hanging clouds over a sleepy countryside. Lush pads, crisp breakbeats, and a deep bass synth create a foundation that is at once grounding and otherworldly.

In Claude9’s own words:

“This is a funky, breakbeat-driven downtempo track inspired by the surreal clouds I saw while driving to the studio. They were so low, it felt like I could reach out and walk on them. That moment sparked the lyrics and the playful tone of the entire song.”

The track is accompanied by a mini live set performance, offering a sneak peek into the sonic aesthetic of the upcoming album. Watch here: Claude9 Mini Live Set on YouTube

A Veteran of Austin's Music Scene

Claude9, who first emerged in the 1990s, was among Austin’s earliest electronic music producers. Known for his collaborative work with bands like Pressure, The Killer Bees, Raggamassive, Afrofreque, Supercreeps, and Hail Marley, he’s spent decades weaving himself into the rich musical fabric of Texas’s capital city.

As a keyboardist, producer, and vocalist, his influences run deep, ranging from the dub-wise production of Lee “Scratch” Perry and Augustus Pablo, to the ethereal sophistication of Kruder & Dorfmeister, Massive Attack, and The Orb. That heritage is evident on “Clouds So Low,” which Claude began crafting before the pandemic, originally as part of a duo project.

“The album was first envisioned with my friend Alec Ash at the ESH Institute in Lockhart. But after the first session, the pandemic shifted everything. It became a solo effort and something deeply personal.”

Claude9’s versatile background also includes collaborations in house music, synthpop, and experimental electronic forms. His work with artists like Noëlle Hampton (The Belle Sounds) and Ken Christensen (East Coast Boogiemen) in the project XANIMAL reflects a continued evolution and curiosity that defines his production ethos.

About ‘Chords of Love’

The forthcoming album, Chords of Love, is a 9-track immersive journey across sonic textures and emotional landscapes. Each track blends soulful instrumentation with electronic experimentation. Notable contributions include saxophone from Jorja Chalmers (known for her work with Bryan Ferry and Goldfrapp) on tracks “Entrance” and “Enough is Enough.”

Tracklist:

1. Entrance – 6:38

2. Chords of Love – 7:07

3. Cicada Soul – 2:47

4. Clouds So Low – 5:08

5. Can You Hear Me – 1:57

6. The Shadow – 4:45

7. Down to the Underground – 5:42

8. Echolalia – 2:22

9. Enough is Enough – 7:22

The album was recorded at Claude9 Studios in Austin, with additional sessions at ESH Institute in Lockhart. Mixing and mastering were completed by Charles “Chicky” Reeves at Sublime Studios in London, giving the record an international polish.