Dee Dee Bridgewater & Bill Charlap Announce Elemental – A Captivating Jazz Duo Album

Jazz luminaries Dee Dee Bridgewater and Bill Charlap have unveiled their highly anticipated collaborative album, Elemental, set for release on June 13, 2025, under exclusive license to Mack Avenue Records by DDB Records. This marks their first duo recording, capturing the magic of their sold-out live performances.

The album features a curated selection of jazz standards, showcasing the duo's deep understanding of jazz tradition and impeccable phrasing. Their rendition of "Honeysuckle Rose" exemplifies their natural chemistry, with Bridgewater's dynamic vocals dancing atop Charlap's jaunty piano lines. Bridgewater describes their approach as playful and spontaneous, emulating the whimsical nature of Fats Waller's original composition.

Elemental is available for pre-order on CD and limited edition 180-gram vinyl. Fans can also stream the lead single, "Honeysuckle Rose," on various platforms.

Dee Dee Bridgewater, born Denise Eileen Garrett on May 27, 1950, in Memphis, Tennessee, is a three-time Grammy Award-winning jazz vocalist and Tony Award-winning actress. Raised in Flint, Michigan, in a music-filled home, she was introduced to jazz early on by her father, Matthew Garrett, a respected jazz trumpeter and teacher at Memphis’ Manassas High School. Her mother introduced her to Ella Fitzgerald’s music, which became an inspiration to Bridgewater throughout her career.

Bridgewater began her professional career as a member of the Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra in the early 1970s. She later performed with jazz legends such as Sonny Rollins, Dizzy Gillespie, Dexter Gordon, and Max Roach. In 1975, she won a Tony Award for her role as Glinda in the Broadway musical The Wiz. Throughout her career, she has released numerous albums, including Dear Ella, a tribute to Ella Fitzgerald, and Eleanora Fagan (1915–1959): To Billie with Love From Dee Dee, a tribute to Billie Holiday, both of which earned her Grammy Awards.

Bill Charlap, born William Morrison Charlap on October 15, 1966, in New York City, is a Grammy Award-winning jazz pianist known for his lyrical approach to jazz and American popular song. He began playing the piano at age three and comes from a musical family; his father, Moose Charlap, was a Broadway composer and songwriter, and his mother, Sandy Stewart, is a singer who toured with Benny Goodman and appeared on television shows such as The Ed Sullivan Show and Perry Como's Kraft Music Hall.

Charlap formed his trio in 1997 with bassist Peter Washington and drummer Kenny Washington, and the group has become one of the leading ensembles in jazz. He has performed and recorded with artists such as Tony Bennett, Wynton Marsalis, and Gerry Mulligan. In 2016, his collaboration with Tony Bennett on The Silver Lining: The Songs of Jerome Kern won the Grammy Award for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album. Charlap is also the Director of Jazz Studies at William Paterson University in New Jersey.

Melba Moore Returns to Dance Floors with Empowering New Single “No Filter”

Legendary R&B and Broadway icon Melba Moore is set to release her latest single, “No Filter,” on May 30, 2025, marking a triumphant return to the dance music scene. Known for her chart-topping hits in the 1970s and 1980s, Moore's new track promises to reignite her presence on contemporary dance floors.

Written by Angela Pettus and produced by George Pettus, “No Filter” combines a pulsating groove with Moore’s signature soulful vocals. The song delivers a powerful message of self-empowerment and authenticity, encouraging listeners to embrace their true selves without fear or hesitation. With its infectious rhythm and uplifting lyrics, “No Filter” is poised to become a staple in clubs and on dance charts worldwide.

This release comes on the heels of Moore's celebrated performance at the Apollo Theater in April 2025, where she joined DJ D-Nice for the 5th Anniversary of “Club Quarantine.” Dressed in a vibrant yellow ensemble, Moore captivated audiences with her timeless hit “You Stepped Into My Life,” a song that originally reached the Top 5 on the Billboard Dance charts in 1978. Her appearance highlighted her enduring influence and connection with both longtime fans and a new generation of listeners.

Melba Moore's illustrious career spans nearly six decades, encompassing achievements in music, theater, and television. From her groundbreaking role in the original cast of Hair to her Tony Award-winning performance in Purlie, Moore has continually evolved as an artist. Her recent work, including the album Imagine, showcases her commitment to creating music that resonates emotionally and spiritually with audiences.

With “No Filter,” Melba Moore reaffirms her place in the music industry, delivering a track that is both a nod to her disco roots and a step forward into contemporary sounds. Fans old and new can look forward to experiencing the magic of Melba Moore once again on the dance floor.

Kandace Springs Reimagines Billie Holiday’s Lady in Satin with Orchestral Elegance

Lady in Satin, Kandace Springs’ fifth studio project, finds the Nashville-born vocalist delivering a radiant tribute to Billie Holiday. This 12-track set honors Holiday’s legendary 1958 Lady in Satin while offering a fresh, elegant reinterpretation.

Springs is accompanied throughout by the 60-member Orquestra Clássica de Espinho from Portugal, who provide a refined and emotive backdrop—an ideal sonic canvas for revisiting the legacy of Holiday, a towering figure in vocal jazz and Black American music. The album is due May 9, 2025, via SRP Records.

The artwork echoes the original: where Holiday looked to the side, Springs faces forward, donning the singer’s signature white gardenia. Yet this is no impersonation. “Billie is a huge part of who I am musically,” Springs explains, “but mimicking her would feel wrong.” To make the material her own, she immersed herself in instrumental takes of the songs: “That gave me space to find my voice in them.”

Widely seen as Holiday’s final triumph, Lady in Satin was the last album released before her death (1959’s Last Recording followed posthumously). Critics have lauded its poignancy—AllMusic called it “high art from a woman who lived through deep hardship.” Rolling Stone placed it at No. 317 in its 2020 500 Greatest Albums of All Time.

Springs tackles the record with grace and credibility. Mentored by Prince—who once described her voice as capable of “melting snow”—she's carved out her own acclaim. The Guardian praised her 2016 debut Soul Eyes for its innate soulfulness. That was followed by 2018’s genre-spanning Indigo and 2020’s The Women Who Raised Me, her salute to iconic female jazz singers.

After the pandemic-induced introspection, Springs released Run Your Race in 2024, a deeply personal album dedicated to her late father. Paris Move called it “a significant artistic evolution.” That journey naturally led to Lady in Satin.

“I’d always dreamed of recording a tribute to Billie with a full orchestra,” Springs recalls. When introduced to the Orquestra, she discovered they were seeking a similar collaboration. “The moment we connected, it felt meant to be.”

Over the course of a year, the team curated lush arrangements. Top arrangers—Nuno Peixoto de Pinho, Carlos Azevedo, William Goodchild, among others—crafted rich orchestrations. “The first time I sang with them, I was floored,” Springs says. “Even now, it’s hard to believe how magical it sounds.”

The album begins with “You’ve Changed,” the first track recorded with the Orquestra. “I was nervous that day,” she admits, “but once they began playing, it felt like a dream realized.”

Next is a simmering “You Don’t Know What Love Is.” Springs then moves through “For All We Know,” “I’m a Fool to Want You,” and “But Beautiful”—each performed with interpretive depth and emotional clarity.

She brings warmth and originality to lesser-known selections like “For Heaven’s Sake” and “The End of a Love Affair,” and reinvigorates standards such as “It’s Easy to Remember” and “I’ll Be Around.”

Springs was especially moved by rediscovering songs that had faded from public consciousness, including “Violets for Your Furs” and “I Get Along Without You Very Well,” both given renewed attention through her heartfelt renditions.

The closing number, “Glad to Be Unhappy,” encapsulates the album’s blend of classical textures—harps, French horns, timpani—with timeless sentiment. “I’ve worked with big bands before,” Springs reflects, “but nothing compares to being enveloped by this kind of sound. It was unforgettable.”

Now, that experience is ready to be shared with the world.

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Tracklist

1. You’ve Changed

2. You Don’t Know What Love Is

3. For All We Know

4. I’m a Fool to Want You

5. But Beautiful

6. I’ll Be Around

7. For Heaven’s Sake

8. The End of a Love Affair

9. It’s Easy to Remember

10. Violets for Your Furs

11. I Get Along Without You Very Well

12. Glad to Be Unhappy

José James' '1978: Revenge of the Dragon'—A Raw, Genre-Bending Tribute to Late '70s Underground Culture

José James' upcoming album, 1978: Revenge of the Dragon, set to release on May 16, 2025, via Rainbow Blonde Records, is a vibrant homage to the transformative energy of the late 1970s. Building upon his previous album, 1978, which celebrated the glitz of Studio 54, this new project delves into the raw, underground spirit of downtown's Mudd Club, blending jazz fusion, funk, punk, and cinematic influences from kung fu and Blaxploitation films .

Sound & Concept

Recorded live to tape in one take at Dreamland Studios—a restored 19th-century church near Woodstock, NY—the album captures an unfiltered, high-energy performance. James describes it as "hot," akin to a Friday night out at the Mudd Club in its prime.

Tracklist & Collaborators

The album features a mix of four originals and four reimagined classics:

Side A:

1. Tokyo Daydream (feat. Taali)

2. Rock With You (feat. Takuya Kuroda)

3. Rise of The Tiger

4. They Sleep We Grind (for Badu)

Side B:

5. I Thought It Was You (feat. Ebban Dorsey)

6. Miss You

7. Inside And Out (feat. Ben Wendel)

8. Last Call at The Mudd Club

The ensemble includes José James and Taali on vocals, BIGYUKI on keys and analog synth, Jharis Yokley on drums, with bass by David Ginyard and Kyle Miles. The brass section features Takuya Kuroda on trumpet, Ebban Dorsey on alto sax, and Ben Wendel on tenor sax .

Visual Companion

Complementing the album is a kung-fu short film titled Revenge of the Dragon, complete with training montages and plot twists, paying tribute to the genre's golden year, 1978, and Bruce Lee's cultural impact.

Lead Single: “They Sleep, We Grind (for Badu)”

The lead single is a hypnotic groove steeped in dub, funk, and sampledelia, inspired by Erykah Badu's social media mantra and martial arts videos. James channels influences from George Clinton to J Dilla, creating a decades-collapsing cut powered by an "ugly groove" .

This album promises a dynamic listening experience, blending genres and eras with José James' signature style.

Nādt Orchestra's 'Dualism': A Sonic Fusion of Jazz, Global Rhythms, and Spiritual Energy

Bologna-based Nādt Orchestra has unveiled their debut album, Dualism, released on May 9, 2025, via Locomotiv Records. This nine-track LP is a rich tapestry of jazz innovation, weaving together Afrobeat, Ethio-jazz, Afro-Cuban rhythms, and electronic textures into a cohesive and exploratory soundscape.

Formed in 2020, the eight-member ensemble—led by guitarist Domenico Romano—comprises young, talented musicians who draw inspiration from diverse musical traditions spanning Africa, Central America, and the Middle East. Their name, 'Nādt,' is derived from the Sanskrit term denoting the subtle channels through which prāṇa, or vital energy, flows, reflecting their commitment to creating music that resonates on both physical and spiritual levels.

Dualism is produced by Grammy-winning producer Tommaso Colliva, known for his work with Muse and Calibro 35. Colliva captures the ensemble's dynamic interplay, stating, "There are few things as exciting as listening to nine musicians interacting in the same room at the same time... it's becoming more and more of a rarity, an exception, almost a kind of magic."

The album features notable collaborations with contemporary jazz figures such as Gianluca Petrella and Pasquale Mirra. In "Koko," Afro-Cuban percussion intertwines with Petrella's trombone, building towards a crescendo that highlights the ensemble's rhythmic progression. "Eggun" showcases Mirra's vibraphone alongside double bassist Alberto Brutti, creating a composition anchored by the hypnotic pulse of Batá drums, evoking the power of ritual ceremonies.

Tracks like "Spiral" and "Elephant" delve into groove-centric territories, drawing parallels to the modern Afrobeat of Ezra Collective and the tropical influences of Brazilian group Iconili. The album concludes with "Sewa," featuring the soaring voice of Burkinabé griotte Kadi Coulibaly, delivering lyrics in Bambara that evoke a feeling of shared happiness.

Dualism is available in LP, CD, and digital formats through Locomotiv Records. Listeners can experience the album's rich sonic landscape on streaming platforms like Spotify.

For fans of genre-defying jazz and global musical fusion, Nādt Orchestra's Dualism offers a compelling journey through contrasting yet harmonious soundscapes.

Grace Jones Joins Montreux Jazz Festival Lineup

Following the unexpected cancellation of French artist Laylow’s tour, the Montreux Jazz Festival has quickly reimagined its July 12th Lake Stage lineup — and the result is nothing short of iconic. The festival proudly announced that the legendary Grace Jones will now take the stage, joining the headliners of its 59th edition. Tickets are available now and expected to go fast.

A Bold, Brilliant Replacement

Laylow’s withdrawal — prompted by his decision to focus on creating his next album — left fans wondering what would fill the void. The Festival, committed to curating meaningful artistic pairings, looked for a performer who could complement Yseult, the fearless French songstress set to open the show.

Enter Grace Jones.

The Jamaican-born music and fashion icon was a natural choice. Her daring artistic spirit and genre-defying career align perfectly with the avant-garde energy Yseult brings to the stage. Together, these two powerful women represent different generations but share the same uncompromising artistic vision.

Grace Jones: A Living Work of Art

More than just a singer, Grace Jones is a force of nature — a performer who fuses music, fashion, art, and theatricality into every appearance.

Born in Spanish Town, Jamaica in 1948 and raised in New York, Jones began her career as a model before moving into music in the late 1970s. Her debut albums, recorded with Island Records, blended disco with reggae and new wave influences, launching her into international stardom.

Over the decades, she has remained a cultural trailblazer. Known for her androgynous style, chiseled cheekbones, and commanding stage presence, she became a muse to Andy Warhol, graced countless magazine covers, and even starred as a Bond villain opposite Roger Moore in A View to a Kill.

A Genre-Defying Legacy

Jones’s music cannot be boxed in. Her influential albums such as Nightclubbing (1981) and Slave to the Rhythm (1985) broke new ground, merging funk, pop, reggae, and avant-garde sensibilities. Her voice—deep, theatrical, and unapologetically powerful—has influenced generations of artists from Lady Gaga to Rihanna.

Now, she brings that same eclectic energy back to Montreux for her fourth appearance at the legendary festival. Her last performance, held eight years ago at the Stravinski Auditorium, is still remembered as one of Montreux’s most electric and theatrical nights.

What to Expect on July 12

This performance on the Lake Stage promises to be an unforgettable event. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Lake Geneva, Grace Jones will command the stage with her signature style, complete with bold costumes, high drama, and genre-melding music that spans decades of innovation.

Paired with Yseult’s emotionally raw and genre-bending sound, the evening will be a celebration of fearless femininity, artistic rebellion, and musical evolution.

Greg Murphy’s “Snap Happy” – A Jubilant Jazz Journey Full of Soul and Sophistication

In his eighth release as a bandleader, acclaimed jazz pianist Greg Murphy delivers a vibrant and soulful listening experience with Snap Happy, a masterfully crafted album that celebrates technical brilliance, rhythmic joy, and lyrical finesse. Released under Whaling City Sound, this project blends a variety of jazz styles into a seamless and expressive musical narrative.

From the opening track, an energetic reimagining of the jazz standard “On Green Dolphin Street,” Murphy sets the tone with dynamic interplay and bold creativity. This momentum flows into “Twelve More Bars to Go,” a nod to Wayne Shorter’s influence, and continues with standout originals like the title track “Snap Happy” and the funk-inspired “Chillin’ for Rhythm.”

Murphy’s long-standing trio is in top form on this album. Obasi Akoto anchors the music with deeply resonant acoustic and electric bass lines, while Steve Johns provides dynamic and nuanced percussion throughout. Together, they elevate Murphy’s compositions with chemistry and class.

One of the album’s highlights is “Snap Happy”, featuring soulful guitar work from Mark Whitfield and vibrant vocals from Sy Smith on “Geneva.” These collaborations bring added texture and emotional depth, enriching the album’s diverse sonic palette.

A unique aspect of Snap Happy is its ability to traverse emotional landscapes—moving from the reflective and heartfelt “I Fall in Love Too Easily” to the assertive, groove-driven “Equality” and the ethereal balladry of “The Shadow of Lo.” The album closes with genre-bending interpretations of “Pannonica” (Monk meets bossa nova) and a sizzling rendition of “All God’s Chillun Got Rhythm,” showcasing Murphy’s stylistic agility.

Snap Happy is not only a celebration of Greg Murphy’s musical journey but also a testament to his role as a torchbearer of contemporary jazz. His playing—equal parts precision and passion—honors the legacy of jazz greats like McCoy Tyner while pushing the genre into fresh, modern terrain.

As noted jazz critic Chris DeVito writes, "Snap Happy exudes happiness, achieving what its name implies—makes people happy."

Whether you're a lifelong jazz enthusiast or a newcomer exploring the genre, Snap Happy offers a rich, rewarding experience that hits all the right notes.

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Track Highlights:

1. On Green Dolphin Street

2. Twelve More Bars to Go

3. Snap Happy

4. Equality

5. The Shadow of Lo

6. All God’s Chillun Got Rhythm

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Album Credits:

• Greg Murphy – Piano & Keyboards

• Obasi Akoto – Acoustic & Electric Bass

• Steve Johns – Drums & Percussion

• Mark Whitfield – Guitar (Tracks 4, 6, 9)

• Sy Smith – Vocals (Track 4)

Dr. Dave Returns with New Single "Reserved for Abbie" Featuring Ronnie Laws

Southern California-based jazz guitarist and composer Dr. Dave has unveiled his latest single, “Reserved for Abbie,” a heartfelt ballad that exemplifies his signature smooth jazz style. This track features the legendary saxophonist Ronnie Laws, whose soulful improvisation adds depth and emotion to the romantic composition.

“Reserved for Abbie” draws inspiration from a past long-distance relationship, with Dr. Dave conveying longing and affection through melodic guitar lines and emotive lyrics. The song includes dreamy female backing vocals that echo sentiments like, “Reserved for Abbie/In my world…She’s the girl,” culminating in the poignant plea, “Come back.”

This collaboration with Ronnie Laws continues Dr. Dave’s tradition of featuring renowned jazz artists in his work, following previous partnerships with Freddie Hubbard, Ernie Watts, and members of Fattburger. The track exemplifies Dr. Dave’s ability to blend personal storytelling with engaging jazz compositions.

“Reserved for Abbie” is part of Dr. Dave’s ongoing project with The Housecall Band, known for their 2018 album Midnight Daydream, which produced hits like “Sexy Cindy” and “Cecil’s Groove.” Fans can look forward to more releases as Dr. Dave continues to explore themes of love and connection through his music.

Fred Hersch's 'The Surrounding Green': A Masterclass in Jazz Piano Trio Artistry

Renowned jazz pianist and composer Fred Hersch unveils his latest masterpiece, The Surrounding Green, marking his third release with ECM Records. This album showcases the profound synergy of Hersch's long-standing trio, featuring bassist Drew Gress and drummer Joey Baron, culminating in a studio recording that epitomizes the essence of jazz piano trio interplay.

Hersch, a 17-time Grammy nominee, is celebrated for his lyrical improvisation and nuanced compositions. In The Surrounding Green, he presents a blend of original pieces and reinterpretations of 20th-century jazz compositions, including works by Ornette Coleman, Egberto Gismonti, and the Gershwin brothers. The trio's rendition of Coleman's "Law Years" and Gismonti's "Palhaço" exemplify their ability to infuse classic tunes with fresh perspectives.

The album's title track, "The Surrounding Green," along with originals like "Plainsong" and "Anticipation," highlight Hersch's compositional prowess. These pieces are characterized by intricate harmonies, melodic inventiveness, and rhythmic sophistication, reflecting the trio's deep musical rapport developed over decades of collaboration.

Recorded in May 2024 at Lugano’s Auditorio Stelio Molo and produced by ECM's Manfred Eicher, the album benefits from the venue's acoustics, capturing the trio's dynamic range and subtle interplay. Hersch notes the exceptional communication within the trio, stating, "I feel that on this record you really hear the history! I hope that people can feel the maturity of the interaction, the sonic world, and the sensitivity at play."

The Surrounding Green stands as a testament to Fred Hersch's enduring influence in the jazz world, offering listeners an immersive experience into the refined art of piano trio performance.

Joanna Eden's 'The Road to Paysandú': A Jazz Journey Rooted in Friendship and Latin Soul

Acclaimed UK jazz singer-songwriter Joanna Eden returns with her seventh studio album, The Road to Paysandú, a heartfelt fusion of jazz, soul, and Latin rhythms. Released in May 2025, the album showcases Eden's evolution as an artist, weaving personal narratives with rich musical textures.

Eden, often described as the "jewel in the crown of the UK jazz scene" by Claire Martin, has earned accolades from jazz luminaries like Dame Cleo Laine and Jamie Cullum. Her influence extends to global superstar Sam Smith, who credits Eden as "the reason I sing" and recently shared a duet with her at the BBC Proms, calling it "a career high."

The inspiration for The Road to Paysandú stems from Eden's journey to Uruguay with her husband and musical collaborator, bassist Andrés Lafone. Their experiences in Lafone's homeland ignited a creative spark, leading to a collection of songs that reflect the country's vibrant culture and Eden's own introspective storytelling.

A standout track, "The Kindness of a Friend," released as a single in August 2024, encapsulates the album's warm and soulful essence. With its catchy groove and sing-along chorus reminiscent of Stevie Wonder, the song celebrates the generosity and support found in true friendship. Eden shares that the song was a gift to a friend whose kindness left a lasting impact on her life. The album features collaborations with esteemed musicians, including Grammy-winning Uruguayan keyboardist Hugo Fattoruso, who praised Eden as "la mejor música de todos nosotros" during rehearsals. Recording took place at Montevideo's historic Sondor Studio, renowned for its rich acoustic legacy.

Eden's live performances continue to captivate audiences, with a UK tour supporting The Road to Paysandú commencing at London's PizzaExpress Jazz Club on May 4, 2025. The tour will visit venues across the country, including Milton Keynes, Lincoln, Brecon, Fishguard, Oxfordshire, Suffolk, and Eden's hometown of Saffron Walden.

With The Road to Paysandú, Joanna Eden invites listeners on a musical journey that bridges continents and emotions, solidifying her status as one of the UK's most cherished jazz artists.

Jamie Shew's 'Spicy, Classy, (and a little) Sassy': A Jazz Journey Through Love's Many Facets

Jamie Shew, a distinguished jazz vocalist, songwriter, and arranger, has long understood the transformative power of music. Following the loss of her husband, bassist Roger Shew, to cancer, she channeled her grief into her 2018 album Eyes Wide Open, a poignant collection that traced the arc of their relationship and her journey through sorrow. Critic Scott Yanow praised her for a "strong, clear and attractive voice," noting her comfort across registers and tempos.

Now, with her latest release, Spicy, Classy, (and a little) Sassy, Shew embarks on a vibrant exploration of love in all its forms—joyful, messy, and resilient. The album features 12 tracks, including nine reimagined jazz standards and three original compositions, two penned by Shew herself. The originals, "Enough" and "Letters from You," delve into themes of modern life's chaos and familial bonds, respectively.

Collaborating with an ensemble of esteemed musicians—pianist Jeremy Siskind, Hammond B3 and Rhodes player Kait Dunton, guitarist Mike Scott, bassist Lyman Medeiros, and drummer Mark Ferber—Shew infuses each track with fresh arrangements and emotional depth. Vocalist Mario Jose contributes background vocals on select pieces, adding further richness to the album's texture.

Beyond her recording career, Shew is a dedicated educator, having taught at Fullerton College for over two decades. She leads courses in vocal jazz styling, improvisation, and music theory, and directs ensembles within the college's acclaimed vocal jazz program. Her commitment to nurturing young talent extends to her roles as an adjudicator and clinician at jazz festivals nationwide.

Spicy, Classy, (and a little) Sassy stands as a testament to Shew's resilience and artistic evolution, offering listeners a heartfelt journey through the multifaceted landscape of love.

Brandon Woody’s For The Love Of It All: A Debut Rooted in Love, Legacy, and Liberation

Baltimore-born trumpeter and composer Brandon Woody makes a compelling entrance with his debut album, For The Love Of It All, released on May 9, 2025, via Blue Note Records. Far from a conventional first release, this six-track project is a deeply personal manifesto that intertwines themes of love, ancestry, and resilience.

Woody is joined by his band, Upendo—Troy Long (piano, organ, Rhodes, keyboards), Quincy Phillips (drums), and Michael Saunders (bass)—alongside special guests Imani-Grace (vocals) and Vittorio Stropoli (auxiliary synth). Together, they craft a soundscape that traverses gospel, post-bop, and contemporary jazz, reflecting Woody's journey from his early musical education in Baltimore to his decision to leave the Manhattan School of Music in 2018 to immerse himself in his hometown's vibrant Black music scene. 

Track Highlights:

• "Never Gonna Run Away": Opening the album, this track draws from gospel traditions and Woody's childhood memories, serving as a meditation on faith and endurance. Long's shimmering piano, Grace's ethereal vocals, and the rhythmic grounding of Phillips and Saunders create a sound that feels both cosmic and intimate. 

• "Beyond the Reach of Our Eyes": This piece channels the flow of energy that transcends physical boundaries, with an unconventional structure that dances between odd and even meters while maintaining a patterned pulse—a reminder that energy carries on, even when unseen.

• "Wisdom; Terrace on St. Paul St.": Evoking the sensation of tuning into a distant memory, this track reflects Woody's return to Baltimore and his efforts to reconnect with his roots, filling fractures in familial history through the activation of inner wisdom provided by ancestors both known and unknown.

• "Perseverance": A testament to the grueling yet cathartic process of pushing through obstacles, this track emerged from a studio session where ideas were broken down and polished into something resonant, highlighting the band's dynamic synergy.

• "We, Ota Benga": A nearly nine-minute composition that serves as a musical representation of Ota Benga's life, beginning in the Congo when Benga still belonged to himself. Woody insists on this foundation, demanding that we see Ota Benga in all his complexity before the exploitation is ever mentioned.

• "Real Love, Pt. 1": Co-written by Long, this track is where the band empties themselves entirely, leaving traces of their humanity—sweat, laughter, and tears—pressed into the sound. It's a bold testament to the trust, interplay, and love that binds them.

Critics have lauded For The Love Of It All for its balance between structure and freedom, its emotional depth, and its innovative fusion of genres. The Financial Times awarded the album four stars, noting Woody's blend of jazz tradition with modern, beat-driven dynamics. 

For The Love Of It All is available for streaming on major platforms and for purchase on CD and vinyl through Blue Note Records.

Café del Mar Ibiza Celebrates 45 Years with a Fresh Look, New Sounds, and Culinary Innovations

Café del Mar Ibiza is celebrating its 45th anniversary in 2025 with a refreshed identity, blending its iconic Balearic roots with modern enhancements.

A New Era for an Iconic Venue

Established in 1980 on the San Antonio coastline, Café del Mar has been synonymous with Ibiza's chillout culture. This season, the venue reopens with a revamped look, an upgraded sound system, and an innovative culinary experience. The refurbishment includes a new kitchen and an expanded signature alcohol line, aiming to elevate the overall guest experience.

Musical Milestones

To commemorate this milestone, Café del Mar released the fifth volume of their renowned Chill Out Mix earlier this year. Additionally, a special 30-track anniversary compilation is set for release, featuring legendary artists such as Frankie Knuckles, Aphex Twin, Röyksopp, Derrick May, Todd Terje, Moby, and Gerald. Looking ahead, fans can anticipate new mixes, vinyl repressings of classic compilations, and the launch of a new artist album series, beginning with Pig&Dan on June 13.

Enhanced Audio Experience

In a move to offer an unparalleled listening journey, Café del Mar introduces Ibiza's first Elara.6 mixer this season. Designed by esteemed audio engineer Andy Rigby-Jones, known for his work with Master Sounds and the Allen & Heath Xone series, the Elara.6 promises superior sound quality and an enhanced workflow for DJs.

Culinary Innovations

June will also see the debut of a refreshed menu, reflecting Ibiza's evolving status as a hub for lifestyle, music, and culture. The new culinary offerings aim to deepen Café del Mar's creative flair, providing a dining experience that complements its musical heritage.

Continuing the Legacy

Music Manager and resident DJ Ken Fan expresses enthusiasm for the season:

“We’re incredibly excited to be reopening Café del Mar this summer season and, most importantly, to be celebrating 45 years as an institution on the island. From pioneering the Balearic sound to releasing one of the most beloved chill-out compilation series in the world, we’ve been the backdrop to countless sunsets, memories, and musical journeys—and the story continues this season.”

With a rich history spanning four and a half decades, Café del Mar continues to be a sanctuary for sunset seekers and music lovers, embodying the spirit of Ibiza while embracing new horizons.

Azmari Unveils 'In Oculis': A Sonic Journey Through Minimalism and Global Rhythms

Belgian ensemble Azmari has released their fourth EP, In Oculis, a five-track exploration that marks a new chapter in their musical evolution. Embracing a more minimalistic approach, the band recorded the EP during various residencies in Belgium and abroad, resulting in an eclectic fusion of powerful grooves, cinematic jazz, floating melodies, and entrancing soundscapes.

A notable collaboration on this project is with French musician Guillaume Souffrice, also known as Mosso Mosso. A long-time collaborator and former guitarist for Azmari, Souffrice brings his expertise as a music therapist and multi-instrumentalist to the EP. His extensive travels—from studying the daf in Iranian Kurdistan to immersing himself in the shehnai in northern India—infuse the music with cross-cultural rhythms and melodies. Souffrice's passion for psychedelic guitar tones and the classic wah-wah pedal adds depth and dimension to the band's sound.

The EP opens with "Night Plants Can Run," featuring a rhythmic loop on the Berimbau, a Brazilian percussion instrument traditionally used in Capoeira. The track offers a steady, groovy journey between Rio de Janeiro and Sarajevo, with a guitar theme doubled by the saxophone, all underpinned by a deep 4/4 groove. The middle section introduces a flurry of percussion, evoking a sense of urgency and chase, inspired by the band's studio experience imagining a pursuit through the Amazon.

"Disassembling the Matrix" takes listeners on a 9/4 march that feels both elusive and powerful. Born from a jam session where an arpeggiator loop wouldn't stop, the band decided to continue with it, highlighting the beauty of spontaneous creation. "Lizard's Dream" is a guitar-driven trip that gradually intensifies in energy, surprising with a sudden groovy break before returning to its soft and introspective theme, closing out the A-side of the vinyl.The fourth track, "Eyelights," was born from the shores of Vevey Lake in Switzerland. It reflects a period of mental observation and rhythmic exploration, using three different time signatures that converge as the song progresses. The melody loops with a peaceful and nostalgic vibe, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Under the direction of producer Frederik Segers, "Eyelights" takes on a cinematic feel, incorporating classical upright piano sounds—a first for Azmari.

The EP concludes with "17th Tiger Print," transporting listeners to the banks of the Ganges. Souffrice's shehnai leads the track into a hypnotic, hallucinatory dimension, where its interplay with the baritone saxophone creates a textured, mystical atmosphere. This track encapsulates Azmari's essence, bridging cultures and emotions in a minimalist yet impactful manner.

Sarah Wilson Finds Joy, Art, and Community in Her Uplifting New Album Incandescence

Out July 18, 2025 on Brass Tonic Records

Acclaimed trumpeter, composer, and visionary artist Sarah Wilson returns with Incandescence, a vibrant and genre-blurring new album that celebrates the power of artistic inspiration and communal connection. Set for release on July 18, 2025, via her own Brass Tonic Records, the album showcases Wilson’s brass-forward sextet Brass Tonic, drawing energy from visual art, New Orleans brass band traditions, and the sheer joy of making music.

The spark for Incandescence ignited during a 2023 residency in Krems, Austria, where Wilson encountered the bold, multilayered work of Viennese painter Thomas Reinhold, a pioneer of German “New Painting.” His architectural, time-bending compositions struck a deep chord with Wilson and became the foundation for several pieces on the album, including “Architecture in Space” and “Music Appears to Stand Still.”

“These incredible paintings just looked like music to me,” Wilson recalls.

Co-produced with Grammy-winning producer Hans Wendl, the album is rooted in both visual abstraction and Wilson’s lifelong affinity for rhythm-driven, community-centric music. Brass Tonic’s lineup reflects this ethos: an all-woman horn frontline—Wilson on trumpet, Kasey Knudsen on alto sax, and Mara Fox on trombone—driven by a powerful rhythm section featuring John Schott (guitar), Lisa Mezzacappa (bass), and drummers Jon Arkin and Tim Bulkley.

“Coming from street theater and New Orleans traditions, my music always needs to be something you can move to,” Wilson explains. “Marching band music is accessible, but I wanted to elevate it while keeping that infectious energy.”

Though the band debuted in 2022, its roots go back decades to Wilson’s work with NYC drummer Kenny Wollesen’s Himalayas marching band and her performances with the Bread & Puppet Theater in the 1990s. These experiences—deeply steeped in activism and artistry—shaped the communal spirit she brings to Brass Tonic.

That spirit also drives her commitment to representation in jazz. “It was important for me to center women in this band,” says Wilson. “Especially in horn sections, where we’re still seeing a lack of gender equity. It’s empowering.”

Wilson composed the early music for Incandescence during her 2022 residency at the Djerassi Resident Artists Program in California. That creative momentum carried her to Austria, where she composed inside the State Gallery of Lower Austria, often working right beside Reinhold’s paintings. The two artists later met and bonded over a shared admiration for John Coltrane—and an understanding of time as both medium and muse.

“When you’re in the moment with music, time just dissolves,” Wilson says. “That joy, that suspension—it’s what I want people to feel when they hear this album.”

Wilson is no stranger to crafting music inspired by visual art. Her 2010 album Trapeze Project featured works influenced by sculptor Nicolas Africano and her collaboration with aerial dance troupe Catch Me Bird for Off the Walls was sparked by Harlem Renaissance painter Aaron Douglas during her NEA-funded residency at San Francisco’s de Young Museum.

Incandescence continues Wilson’s mission to unite art, community, and social purpose through sound. Whether it’s in her past collaborations with Tenderloin Museum and Larkin Street Youth Services, or her acclaimed previous albums Kaleidoscope (2021) and Trapeze Project (2010), Wilson’s voice is one of joyful innovation and intentional connection.

“Music has the power to evoke strong feelings,” she says. “That’s the heart of Incandescence—to bring joy, to move people, and to remind us of the beauty in connection.”

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Sarah Wilson – Incandescence
Brass Tonic Records – BTR 003
Recorded: April 13–14, 2024
Release Date: July 18, 2025

GRAMMY Winner Michael Mani Fuses Jazz, R&B & Funk on Long-Awaited Debut Album Triangles

Out May 9, “Triangles” marks the contemporary jazz debut of Michael Mani — a visionary producer finally stepping into the spotlight.

For over four decades, Michael Mani has been a powerhouse behind the scenes — producing, composing, and arranging hits for legends like Santana, Eric Clapton, and Whitney Houston. Now, the GRAMMY-winning keyboardist and producer is finally turning the spotlight inward with Triangles, his long-anticipated contemporary jazz debut, dropping this Friday (May 9) via Baja/TSR Records.

The album’s lead single — also titled “Triangles” — is already making waves, climbing the Billboard singles chart and hitting No. 1 on Nashville’s WFSK jazz station. Infused with shimmering piano melodies, deep grooves, and dynamic instrumentation, the track sets the tone for an album that Mani describes as a reflection of the many “triangles” in life — spiritual, musical, and personal.

“Triangles are everywhere — in music, in relationships, in faith,” says Mani. “I see them in the connection between piano, God, and myself when I’m creating. The holy Trinity is a powerful influence in my life. And triangles, in structure and symbolism, are the strongest shape — from the pyramids to skyscrapers.”

Raised in the Bay Area and mentored by GRAMMY-winning producer Narada Michael Walden (Whitney Houston, Mariah Carey), Mani spent years shaping the sounds of pop, R&B, and Latin music. He helped launch the careers of Tori Kelly and Becky G and contributed to GRAMMY-winning projects like Santana’s Supernatural. But jazz was always his quiet passion — until now.

Each of the 15 tracks on Triangles reflects Mani’s deep musical well, blending jazz, R&B, funk, and soul into a cohesive, high-energy journey.

On “In The Moment,” a vibrant solo piano piece with infectious rhythms, Mani pays homage to jazz icons Jeff Lorber and David Sanborn. “Night Thrills” and “Skyline” are steeped in 80s funk-pop influences, while “Just Can’t Stop” brings a danceable groove to life with saxophonist Mike Parlett. Guitarist Nils and bassist Tony Saunders join Mani on “Echoes of Love,” a dynamic track that captures the spirit of live collaboration.

Brazilian jazz shines through on “Walks in Brazil,” where Mani channels his admiration for pianist Michel Camilo. “I imagined walking on a beach near a rainforest — I had so much fun with the piano on that one,” he says.

Throughout Triangles, Mani surrounds himself with standout talent. Saxophonist Ashley J adds warmth on “Night Shift,” while Bryan Thompson lends his horn to the album’s closer, the inspirational “By Your Side” — a song dedicated to God and Mani’s late corgi, Scooby.

Other highlights include:

• “I Can Hear You Calling,” a retro R&B groove born from a dream

• “Funk City,” a high-energy tribute to Sanborn and Marcus Miller

• “Smiles,” a hip-hop-infused jam featuring a brass section arranged by Arturo Solar (Luis Miguel)

• “All Night,” where Mani trades licks with Nils over a chill hip-hop beat

• “Head Over Heels,” a romantic groove written for his wife, Julianne

“This album is the culmination of everything I’ve learned and loved — from classical training as a kid to funk fusion as a teen, to crafting pop hits as an adult,” says Mani. “I wanted it to feel like a playlist, with each track offering something new. It’s not about following a formula — it’s just me, creating from the heart.”

With Triangles, Michael Mani emerges as a bold new voice in contemporary jazz — bringing fresh energy, decades of musical mastery, and a deep sense of purpose to the genre.

Track Listing – Triangles

1. Triangles

2. In The Moment

3. Night Thrills

4. Just Can’t Stop

5. Echoes of Love

6. Walks in Brazil

7. Night Shift

8. I Can Hear You Calling

9. Skyline

10. Funk City

11. Smiles

12. Pacific Blue

13. All Night

14. Head Over Heels

15. By Your Side