Review Scott Tromboni Back on Track Olympia Wa
Our latest and greatest reviews for your read ing & listening pleasure
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The links below are to REVIEWS I've written for Cadence Jazz World!!!
Michael Jefry Stevens – Angel'southward Trip the light fantastic
Dom Minasi/Blaise Siwula – The Sunshine Don't Mind My Singing
Dom Minasi/Hans Tammen – Alluvium Sun
Dario Chiazzolino and Nico Di Battista – Rewriting Vocal
Dario Chiazzolino – Paint Your Life
NOTE: I normally only do 30 reviews per event… due to the high volume of submissions, & the long recovery period for my recent surgery, I will be reviewing several more than (20 additional, for a total of l) for this outcome (and future issues, until our backlog is honed down)… "normal" review cycles will resume when I've got the QUEUE down to nether 100!
Before I starting time writing reviews, I desire to personally THANK all of yous who made donations to keep this fine mag sustained for the adjacent yr and a half! I truly appreciate your support; if you lot haven't donated, experience free to do then at any time via Paypal – once in that location, use my business relationship, rotcod@rotcodzzaj.com to make your donation. Again, thanks to all who accept already contributed!
Uwe Gronau – MYSTICAL Morning: This latest sonic romp from Uwe, who nosotros have reviewed many (MANY) times in our pages, is further proof that his driving force in the universe is something we all enjoy (I last reviewed him in issue # 139)! Whether information technology's his fantastic electronic keyboard on pieces like "Light Backside the Door", or the nature (with organ) sounds that grow on the loftier-energy "A Day In Sri Lanka", you'll find yourself awakening to the pure joy that life can exist. What most distinguishes his artistry, at least for this reviewer, is that he plays some of the funkiest new-age you will always hear… to witness that, scope out his loftier-energy & git-down organ playing on my personal favorite of the 15 songs offered upwards, the opener, "Turn it On"; if y'all aren't up & sliding 'round your living room by the 2d measure, you are already a resident of dead-zombie land. I requite Uwe a Near HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" rating of (a perfect) 5.00 for this awesome musical adventure. That ways, of class, that he also gets the "Selection" of this outcome for "nigh inspiring music"! Get more information at the CD Universe page for this wonderful album. Rotcod Zzaj
Deuter – ILLUMINATION OF THE HEART: My almost recent review of Deuter's music was in issue # 155, where he got very high marks… on this new release, described in his ain words, "the abiding dance on the edge of silence — moving into the silence and moving out of the silence", is a very apt way of putting what he's able to do for the listener… "new age" with only chanting, but no inner sensitivity for what is needed to soothe and brand the music a true experience isn't "new" at all… but the creativity with which Deuter approaches his craft definitely is! The deep and rich tones on compositions like "Stern an Stern" will provide you what you're seeking in your listening experience… exist certain you do your first listen with your headphones on, though! Of the viii fantabulous tunes offered up, information technology is the beautiful ix:47 opener, "Matamua", that captured my vote for personal favorite. The joy you will experience with this wonderful musical journeying certainly claim my Nigh HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, as well as an "EQ" (energy caliber) rating of 4.99. Go more than information at the New Earth Records page for this album. Rotcod Zzaj
Manish Vyas – ATMA BHAKTI: In that location are so many "new age" artists out in that location 'round the globe today that it'southward oftentimes difficult to tell who the "pretenders" are. Suffice it to say that as you listen to the xxx infinitesimal opener, "Atma", you lot will know beyond all shadow of doubt that Manish's studies and performances accept made him a genuine master of music that transcends all "labels"… that he truly understands that chanting does non have to be at some certain measured pulse, and that when the vocal is woven peacefully into the flute and other instruments, a state of peace becomes reality for both the player and the listener – truly soul-touching! Don't come to this album with whatsoever expectations, just rest the headphones gently on your cranium and let the magic of pieces like my personal favorite of the tunes offered up, "Bhakti", is (for sure, my friends) what you need to aid you lot on your journey! I give Manish a Most HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with a (perfect) "EQ" (free energy caliber) rating of 5.00 – that means, of course, that the anthology gets a "PICK" for "best devotional music". Become more information at the New Earth Records label page for this excellent creative person. Rotcod Zzaj
Devin Greyness – RELATIVE RESONANCE: Devin's high-end drumming is complimented nicely by saxophonist-clarinetist Chris Speed, pianist Kris Davis and bassist Chris Tordini on this highly engaging all-original release. Equally the "real jazz" fans listen to the rhythmic switchbacks and chordal bend-balls on "In the Cut", it will be immediately apparent that this is some of the freshest work of the year! The call/response and architectural fluidity between the drums and Chris's reeds on the daringly different lead-in to "Undo the Redo" – and as the other instruments join in, you know that this is some of the nearly together work y'all've ever heard. It was the longest limerick on the album (10:28), "Jungle Design", that snagged my vote for personal favorite of the viii highly creative songs offered up for the serious jazz listener. I dearest the press release description of these players every bit "a band of New York Individualists" – a perfect way to describe their musical creations likewise. I give Devin & his friends a Virtually HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy caliber) rating of four.99. Get more information on the Skirl Records page for this release. Rotcod Zzaj
David Berkman – OLD AND NEW FRIENDS: David's stellar piano skills are aided by saxophonist Dayna Stephens and bassist Linda Oh, also as drummer Brian Bract along with saxophonists Adam Kolker and Baton Drewes on this musical adventure that uses the talent of folks he has played with earlier. The unique rhythm and lines on "No Blues No Actually No Blues" distinguish it from all the "other dejection" you've heard before. The unique styles of each of the players is axiomatic, likewise, especially on winners like the wonderfully fresh lines/tones of "Deep High Wide Sky"… I absolutely loved this track! For "spin-power", though, information technology was the tasty rounds on "Up Jumped Ming" that fabricated information technology my personal favorite of the ix all-original compositions on this stand up-out album. I give David and friends a Nigh HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" rating of (a perfect) 5.00 for this truly fine jazz experience. That ways, of grade, that it besides gets the "PICK" of this issue for "most original jazz". Get more information at the Palmetto Records page for this release. Rotcod Zzaj
Hugger-mugger Lie – PANDORA: No question but what your ears volition be opened up to new experiences as you listen to this superb & (very) rockin' band from Portugal! The high-free energy "Some other Gamble" provides immediate connection with their talent, and the lady on the vocal lead takes me all the way back to my cube-filled days with early Jefferson Aeroplane & Ms. Slick! The band also is able to travel in unlike directions… they aren't "stuck in 1 estrus", so to speak, as you will hear on the beautiful "Black Butterflies". The most striking quality of their performance is that it comes across equally fresh and new, fifty-fifty though many of the tunes cover turf that has been trod by many different bands all the way from the 1970'southward! Of the xi songs offered upwardly, I institute my personal favorite in the directly-ahead rocker "Spinning Around"… beat driven with a soaring vocal that will touch you for certain. The only drawback was that I couldn't find a populated home folio for the group, but yous can bank check them out on DISCOGS. I give them a HIGHLY RECOMMENDED (which might have been higher if they had a web site already), with an "EQ" (energy caliber) rating of four.98. Rotcod Zzaj
Jeff Bjorck – KEEPSAKES IN THE ATTIC: Like a favorite novel you've been reunited with, the piano works Jeff does will fill up you with pleasant (and maybe even some sad) memories that may help you lot to understand what you're really all about. His keyboard style allows you to listen with ease and enjoy every note and nuance, especially on pieces similar "Returning Domicile"… truly one of the prettiest piano pieces I've listened to (yet) in 2016! "Mother'south Hymnal" puts me in mind of my own female parent plugging away at the church keyboard with both love and dignity. It is the magical overtones on "Hope in the Heartache" that made it my personal favorite of the thirteen pieces offered up for piano lovers to feast upon. I requite Jeff a HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (free energy quotient) rating of iv.97 for this fine music. You tin can get more than information at Jeff at his Pure Piano website page for this release. Rotcod Zzaj
Mark Etheredge – CONNECTED: This 2016 release from Marking features his groovy keyboard piece of work… tunes like the stunning "Lost In The Shuffle", with Grammy-honor producer Paul Brown, bear upon the groove in all the right spots, to be sure! With but enough funkiness so it can't be lumped in with the dreaded "smoove jazz" pigeonhole, Marking will aid you connect again on pieces like the 3:37 "Exist Who You Are"… at that place are spots in this melody that remind my ears (an awfully lot) Ramsey Lewis manner compositions. Of the ten pieces offered upward, it is the closer, "Soul Clap Dearest", that got my vote for favorite… if you aren't able to groove to this, you need to move to the back of the line & don your spotless side-saddle shoes until y'all can feel what Mark is telling yous! I requite Mark a HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for this high-energy pianoforte jazz celebration, with an "EQ" (energy caliber) rating of 4.98. Get more data at Marker's website. Rotcod Zzaj
Jaki Byard and Howard Riley – R&B: There are times when my nostalgia for the "good old days" of jazz needs feeding… and with on this re-issue of a 1984/5 operation/ready from the Pendley Manor Jazz Festival, Jaki's piano and alto sax join keyboard master Howard in some of the celebratory joy that's only inherent in dandy jazz! Their duet on "Round Midnight/Space" will have you remembering those smashing jazz days with high amore! It'due south simply five tracks, but all are over five minutes in length, so that you air current up with about fifty minutes of jazz your ears will treasure for a long time to come! I was well-nigh impressed by the closer, "Lady Bird"… my personal favorite of the tunes on the album! If you beloved archetype jazz players, y'all'll agree with my declaration that this is Well-nigh HIGHLY RECOMMENDED; "EQ" (free energy quotient) rating is iv.98. Get more information at the SLAM Productions folio for this classic jazz release. Rotcod Zzaj
Lucia Ianniello – MAINTENANT: Lucia'south debut release as a leader features hither stunning abilities on brass (Bb and C trumpet, flugelhorn, effects and objects), and she's joined by some other great players, too… Diana Torti on vox; Giuseppe La Spina playing guitars and Paolo Tombolesi keyboards, acoustic bass and percussion… I absolutely loved Paolo's Rhodes/electrical pianoforte sounds on the opening title track, "Maintenant"… subtle, yet total of the essence of life in definitive move! If you're looking for "modern" in your jazz listening feel, yous will find "Peyote Song No. III" quite to your liking, as did I; Lucia has an innate sense of timing on her horn, and is clogged of the kind of talent/fashion that players like Miles evoked in their musical imagery. My favorite of the 8 songs offered upwards is the cute "Desert Fairy Princess"… your ears won't believe what they're hearing, and Diana's vocal is simply superb! I give Lucia and her high-energy players a Nigh HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy caliber) rating of four.99 for this fine jazz release. Get more than information at the Slam Productions page for this album. Rotcod Zzaj
Clifford Lamb – BRIDGES: This corking new release from Clifford Lamb features his intimate piano works, of course, every bit well as Cindy Blackman Santana on drums and Buster Williams doing bass… it's been a while since I've reviewed him (last time was in issue # 101). What struck me on that first CD was Clifford's high-talent arroyo to pacing… there'southward plenty of "room" for the listener to translate the spaces between notes whatsoever manner their ear wishes to do so, peculiarly on tunes similar the lovely and laid-back "Martita"! The trio's high-energy playing on the old standard "Summertime" will reward your ears solidly, and merits repeated listens, to be certain (this is different than most of the artists I've heard doing the song). Information technology was the fantabulous opening championship track, "Bridges", that got my vote for personal favorite of the 7 tracks offered upwards. I give Clifford and his coiffure a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy caliber) rating of 4.99 for this fine album. You can get more data at Clifford's page for the CD. Rotcod Zzaj
Tom Collier – Across THE Span: Tom's stellar vibraphone piece of work leads the pack here, with electrical guitar from Bill Frisell, electric/audio-visual guitar frm Larry Coryell, electric bass & electrical guitar by Dan Dean, drums from John Bishop and (also) drums by Ted Poor… he got high marks from me in outcome # 159, and totally solidified my impression of his mastery with this new all-original release. No question I'll be slidin' upward to Seattle to picket him play live (since he's "simply up the block" from me, and so to speak). Tunes similar "Embankment Bulldoze" requite the listener an alternative to all the jazz "schlock" that's out at that place on the market place today. The total mellow that shines through on "Genesee" will put your ears correct in the groove they need; the "pacing" is superb on this tune. It is the vibe pb on "Gilt Due north' Dejection" that gets my vote for personal favorite of the 9 songs offered up, though… merely 4:45, merely this one volition "stick in your head", and yous'll be hitting the "replay" button on your playlist over & once again. I requite Tom & his musical cohorts a Most HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy caliber) rating of 4.99 for this great jazz album. Become more information at Tom's website. Rotcod Zzaj
Adam Shulman Sextet – HERE/There: Adam's high-flying piano leads one of those jazz experiences where once the kickoff annotation is played, the music charges ahead (with vigor) and never stops! He's joined by Mike Olmos (trumpet), Patrick Wolff (alto sax), Rob Roth (tenor sax), John Wiltala (bass) and Smith Dobson (drums), and they just Boot on the splendid 6:19 opener, "Grant and Green"… if yer' not toe-tappin' & groovin' along to this by the second bar, you are Non the jazz fan you claim to be. "Pearl and Bruno" will swing you lot right into that cool identify yous want to be at… the horns on this tune are totally "on-time", and if y'all love trumpet, Mike will provide you lot with all the satisfaction you lot need on this corking slice. From the perspective of "listenable" jazz, information technology was the the virtually ix minute "Shelby's Sojourn" that got my vote for personal favorite of the eight (long) tunes offered upwardly for your pleasure. A very concentrated and totally talented jazz listen that gets a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED from me… "EQ" (energy quotient) rating is 4.98. Go more information at the Origin Records label page for this all-original release. Rotcod Zzaj
Rich Dark-brown – ABENG: Rich will truly impress you with his electrical bass talent on this Oct 2015 release… he's joined by Luis Deniz on alto saxophone, Kevin Turcotte on trumpet, Chris Donnelly & Robi Botos playing pianoforte and keys, Larnell Lewis on drums, with special guests Chendy Leon on percussion, & Kelly Jefferson on tenor saxophone, and the free energy is every bit furious as you lot would experience at a windmill farm! The keyboard work on "Mahishmatish" will have you hitting "replay" often for this melody. I found the pacing on the viii:00 "This Lotus Rising" to be an absolute guage of how well (or not) my day was going to go…. simple, yet beautiful, piano on this peachy song. In the cease-run, though, information technology was the oddly titled "The Etymology of Ouch" that got my vote for personal favorite of the eight aural adventures offered upwards for your enjoyment… the rhythmic changes (alone) make the CD worth the purchase. I declare this one equally MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of 4.98. You can get more information at Rich's BANDCAMP folio for this CD. Rotcod Zzaj
Socrates Garcia – BACK HOME: To but state that this is "tasty Latin jazz" would not do justice to the vibrant energy that Mr. Garcia is able to project through his masterful compositions on tunes like the fabled opener, the 8:39 "Vantage Point"… the liner notes say that his music is "tinged" with the colors of the Caribbean area – more than similar "fully applied"… I just loved the way this melody expresses such vigor for life and the living of information technology! He too plays guitar on the title track, "Back Home"… one of the liveliest tunes I've listened to (yet) in 2016! Information technology was the percussion and total integration of all the players/instruments on "Celebration of the Butterflies" that made it my personal favorite of the seven extended compositions.. information technology's a tribute to three sisters who rebelled against the tyranny of the Trujillo regime (dorsum in the day), and expresses simply the correct corporeality of "forwards-looking" with "attitude" that'southward needed to make a tune most memorable. I give Socrates and his players a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for this great jazz release; "EQ" (energy caliber) rating is 4.98. Get more information at the Summit Records page for this album. Rotcod Zzaj
Yoron Israel and High Standards – THIS MOMENT: As always, Yoron'south loftier-talent, loftier-energy playing drum skills are welcomed by my jaded one-time ears on this groovy live (in Boston) recording! My last review of his excellent jazz was in effect # 128, and this 2015 release brings him fifty-fifty college marks! I but loved the gutsy style on Stevie Wonder'due south "Creepin'"; superb energy with some of the strongest jazz expression I've heard in the final two years or so. If what your ears are searching for is full creativity in jazz in live performance fashion, you will hold with me when I declare the operation of the 12:08 "Contusion" will satisfy your every urge… it is my personal favorite of the 9 songs on this dynamic anthology. I give Yoron and coiffure a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of iv.99 for this ane! Get more information about this keen jazz at Yoron'southward page for the CD. Rotcod Zzaj
Anthony Dixon – UP ON THE ROOF: I remember merely how excited I was when I first listened to Lou Rawls (way dorsum "in the day", of course)… when I scope out Anthony's marvelous scat on the splendid opener, "A Night In Tunisia", I can experience my (old) blood surging with fresh 21st Century energy! On one of the best dejection I've heard (yet) this year, "Book Of Faces Blues", Anthony's voice is backed past some stellar organ that whatever real jazz fan will love… even if you're non on FB, lol. All the fashion from his birthday in Arizona to the sunny climes of Florida, young Mr. Dixon belts those tunes out with the best of them. I was specially impressed with one of the shorter tunes, the iv:47 "Jazz Own't Nothin' But Soul"… it's definitely my personal favorite of the eleven high-energy tracks on the album! If you're looking for fresh and 18-carat jazz energy, you lot'll find this release to your liking… I'm giving it a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ' (free energy caliber) rating of 4.97. Get more information at Anthony's website. Rotcod Zzaj
Lisa Hilton – HORIZONS: As always happens when listening to Lisa'south wonderful keyboard work, the "horizons" she paints so masterfully captivate the listeners imagination and sweep them into spaces they've never heard before! I've been reviewing her albums since upshot # 126, and this 2015 release is absolutely killer, especially on pieces similar the bouncy "Nocturnal", on which she'south joined by J.D. ALLEN (tenor sax) SEAN JONES (trumpet/flugelhorn), GREGG AUGUST (bass) and RUDY ROYSTON (drums) in gleeful (albeit brusque) celebration! On "Surfer Blues", things commencement off in "alley-cat sneak" fashion, merely turn joyful enough for the listener to be dancing in only a few bars. Information technology was the beautiful iv:12 opener, "Vapors And Shadows" that got my vote as personal favorite of the dozen first-class tunes… players are SO together on this 1, folks! I give Lisa and her playing pals a Near HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for this i, with an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of 4.98. Get more data at Lisa's page for this release.Rotcod Zzaj
Takeshi Asai – FRENCH TRIO, VOL ii: There are days when jazz piano is the merely cure for the grayness Pacific Northwest skies… & when dispensed with such skill, information technology's easy to feel better on lovely pieces similar the lively "Commencement Again"… this is far more than just "fingers flying" 'circular a keyboard… Takeshi clearly knows whereof he plays! He will easily entice your ears and put you under the spell of his fine talent on the mysterious "Hircam", one of my favorite pieces on this release (and, in fact, ane of my favorite piano works for the year)! Pascal Combeau (bass) and Maxime Legrand (drums) were exactly the right players to option for tunes like my personal favorite of the eight (long) tunes on this release, the opener, "653"… gentle, yet somehow full of power that emanates from players who take an innate sense of how powerful an influence music can be on their own lives (equally well every bit the lives of others). I requite Takeshi and his mates a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (free energy quotient) rating of 4.99 for this stellar and highly impressive release! Become more information at Takeshi'southward website. Rotcod Zzaj
Fine art Lillard's Heavenly Large Band – Sure RELATIONSHIPS: Information technology's been a while since I reviewed Art'south high-talent music (issue # 144), and too a while since I originally received this one for review… my apologies to all, of course. You'll hear the sonic joy he'due south able to project via his large band (he actually used 3 dissimilar groups of players) on the jaunty "Happy Blues"… unquestionably an oxymoron, but it kicks & volition take you up & jumpin' 'round the ballroom in only moments. I just loved the back-alley cat feel of "You Bluesed Me"… definitely one swingin' piece. You'll actually get more notes than you bargained for on this album… a total of fifteen high-spirited tracks that literally "define" what jazz was (as well as what it should exist). My personal favorite of all those performances is the 7:59 "Brusheeze"… some splendid drums, and I loved the flutes on this one. I requite Art & his spirited players a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for this peachy jazz! "EQ" (energy quotient) rating is iv.99. Go more information at Art'southward website. Rotcod Zzaj
Carol Saboya, Antonio Adolfo, Hendrik Meurkens – COPA VILLAGE: Carol's vocals on this oh-so-lovely Latin-influenced jazz release are and then tasty you'll never desire to hear another version of that archetype "The Girl From Ipanema (Garota de Ipanema)"… a perfect opening runway! If it's "lively" you're looking for, you'll fall in love (similar, totally, man) with "Show de Bola"… just similar I did. The ultimate balance of instruments and vocals is achieved easily by these loftier-talent masters on "Two Kites"! Information technology was the piano/harp duets on the 5:13 closer, "Visao", that got my vote for personal favorite of the eleven energy-filled tracks, though. Listening accept me way, Mode back… to my first listens to Getz/Gilberto/Jobim – yes, information technology is truly that skilful; I give Carol & her boyfriend players a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED on this one… "EQ" (energy quotient) rating is iv.98. Listen to samples of all the tracks & purchase this sweet release at Hendrik's page for the anthology. Rotcod Zzaj
George Gee Swing Orchestra – SWING MAKES YOU HAPPY!: Wow! Talk most "getting stuck in line"… my sincere apologies to George & his ultra-cool orchestra! As you do your toe-tappin' to the rousing opener, "Comin' Home", you'll definitely hear that an apology was merited… George & his folks will definitely fill you with glee! & if you aren't happy afterward listening to the high-energy "Lindyhopper'south Delight" – you must accept your saddle-shoes on sideways… lol… absolute FUN! You become almost 20 songs that will have yous right on back to those gin-fueled flapper days, especially on tracks like my personal favorite of the nineteen offered up, the full-bodied "A Tribute to Someone"… perhaps to yous and those blues you've been nursing for manner also long, who knows? I give this one a Near HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of 4.98. You lot tin can become more information at Georges' website. Rotcod Zzaj
Midwest Soul Xchange – NEW AMERICAN CENTURY: Whether yous're a "boomer" (like me) who can't do without a sense of taste of CSNY every once-in-a-while, or psych-strains of Pink Floyd, you'll savour these players on tunes like the opener, "Gear up A Course For Common Worlds"… not bad musical piece of work from Ryan Summers (vocals, guitar, piano, b3, synthesizers, mandolin, lap steel, squeeze box) and Nate Cherrier (vocals, guitar, percussion, bass guitar, harmonica) – spirited playing, to say the least! I'm pretty selective about the Americana bands – they've got to display the "energy" levels that set them apart from all the other clones, & this music definitely displays that… particularly true on tracks like my favorite, the high-spirited story/vocal/tale, "Has Everyone Seen Bob"… very cool stuff that gets a HIGHLY RECOMMENDED from me, with an "EQ" (energy caliber) rating of iv.97. You can get more information about MSX at the Midwest Soul Exchange site. Rotcod Zzaj
Kyrbgrinder – CHRONICLES OF A Dark MACHINE: If you lot're thirsting for some "power-rock", yous'll simply HAVE to go these guys in your collection! Heck, just the cover art makes it worth the purchase! I'm not a stolid fan of "metal" music, especially with titles like "Kill Them All"… but, surprisingly enough, information technology's the energy and talent that's clearly audible on the trio's (Johanne Jameson drums; Aaron Waddingham – Guitars & Dave Lugay – Bass) brand this one well worth the time & investment! The 5:25 "Oxygen" starts of with a fine guitar intro, so jumps correct into some powerfully funky riffin' vocal work. Of the 10 fantabulous pieces offered up for some fine Harley-ridin', it's "I Feel Blue" that got my vote for favorite! For the most part, these gents do it without offensive language – simply their playing skill… & that makes information technology a rare bird in & of itself. I requite the album a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, especially for listeners who need fresh free energy in their sonic experiences. "EQ" (energy quotient) rating is iv.98. Get more information at the U.G. Cherry Records label folio for this rockin' release.Rotcod Zzaj
Landmarq – ROADSKILL, LIVE IN THE NETHERLANDS: I'll tell you one thing up front end (like those Kenny Rogers memes on FB, eh)… "I don't always heed to rock music – but, when I practice, it's gotta' exist GOOD & LOUD"! On their 25th anniversary, this great UK prog-rock band recorded their 2013 live show at De Boerderij (Netherlands), and every bit you mind to tunes like the nine:xiv "Personal Universe", y'all'll realize right away why they've been around for a quarter of a century… the kind of progressive stone that is truly universal and timeless! This is my first listen to them, just I've no dubiousness the promoter will be sending me more than of their releases… as you scope out the 14:02 "Thunderstruck", with it'due south wearisome-build to stellar sequences you've never heard before, yous'll realize why it's my favorite of the eight tunes offered upward (the organ work on this one is just killer). I requite this great high-energy band a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of iv.99. Get more data at the Landmarq site (where you'll be able to see all their releases). Rotcod Zzaj
Iván Muela – UNSOUND: This young multi-instrumentalist composer uses his innate awareness of how sonic surround can influence and inspire listeners to create some truly beautiful excursions for you lot! It was very piece of cake to be impressed with tunes like the four.19 "Unlimned"… simply loved the even-paced strings on this one. If your musical tastes run toward compositions that are a bit "stranger", and so y'all'll dearest "Bitter" just equally much as I did; intimate sonics that implant themselves in your caput and won't let go anytime soon. The musical pacing on the piano-based "Carlo" made it my personal favorite of the even dozen tracks offered up for your audible enjoyment! I give this fine artist a HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy caliber) rating of 4.97. I've been reviewing more and more albums from the Fluttery Records characterization of late, and strongly advise you to check them out if you enjoy music that's not "just the norm". Become more data at the Fluttery Records page for this very interesting release. Rotcod Zzaj
Raoul Björkenheim – OUT OF THE Blueish: Information technology was (one-time in) 2014 when I first heard Raoul's superb guitar work & reviewed it in issue # 143, he got loftier marks, and on this new release, it's even better. The promo sheet describes it equally "high-flight and soaring", and nothing could be closer to nailing it! Tunes like the (very) jazzy feeling "Quintrille" will make your soul fly away as drummer Markku Ounaskari, with stellar bassist Jori Huhtala and saxophonist Pauli Lyytinen join in for some of the coolest guitar-driven work you've e'er heard! Cool, libation & also-cool… high-energy and highly impressive, especially on tunes similar my personal favorite of the eight tracks offered up, the back-alley cat- pitter-patter "OLJ"… just loved this one & mind to it over & once more! If yous're a listener who loves "different" in your sonic experience, you'll agree when I declare this as MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (free energy quotient) rating of iv.99. Get more information on this musical trendsetter at Raoul's website. Rotcod Zzaj
Michael Gibbs & the NDR Bigband – IN MY VIEW: Composer/Arranger Michael has worked with the NDR band since the 1970'due south, and this June 2015 recording brings home just how talented Michael is… not to mention the band, of course… on tunes like the percussive-laden and most powerful "Castilian Sketch", a forthright sonic celebration of life lived to its' fullest! You lot go nine full-length solid jazz excursions that will fan the flames for any listener who demands quality in their jazz listening feel. My ears were nigh impressed by the band operation of Ornette Coleman's "Ramblin'"… if your non upward & dancin' past the 2nd measure – you've already got both anxiety in the grave. This is a big-ring power project that will stay spinning on your playlists for years to come. I requite Michael & the ring a Near HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of 4.99 for this great jazz release. You tin become more data by reading the Cuneiform Records press release. Rotcod Zzaj
Adam Andrews – A THOUSAND SPRINGS: There is nothing more than comforting (for this reviewer, anyway) than well-played solo pianoforte… I gave good marks to Adam in issue # 148, and this new dozen-song release merits kudos too! There are some keyboardists who have little sense of pacing, only every bit you'll hear on the cute "Finding Gratuitous", it is, in fact, Adam'south style to keep the pace at a very natural stride… I totally loved this piece! If it's a bit more "playful" vista you're seeking sonic condolement from, y'all'll definitely like "Only Gotta Exist". Of the twelve compositions offered up, information technology was the gentle beauty on "A New Dawn Ascension" that got my vote for personal favorite. Once again, I'm highly impressed with Adam's high-talent & high-free energy playing… this release gets a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for anyone who tin't go a day without some ivory keys shining their twenty-four hour period up; "EQ" (energy quotient) rating is 4.98 on this one. Get more information about him at Adam's website. Rotcod Zzaj
I wasn't able to notice whatsoever vocal samples (other than YOUTUBE), and then if you have links to them, delight send them to me. This is ane of the best jazz bands in Olympia, with players who know the scene here and bring new life to jazz in the surface area. I give Steve & crew a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of 4.99 for this release. They don't accept a site, but you can larn more at this Traditions Buffet annunciation folio. Rotcod Zzaj
Emily Ann Laliotis – SINGLE Footstep: Emily's music is well-crafted and full of the life nosotros live each mean solar day. She's also local (Tacoma, Washington), and so I'll accept to go & telescopic out her functioning at some bespeak. On tunes like "Big Oral cavity", she tells the story well – and reminds me of some of my early on folk heroes here in the Pacific Northwest (loved those vocals on this tune). No, it's not jazz, but every bit I've said many times, my criteria for a review is that the player is ENGAGED (to the bespeak that the listener will fully autumn under their spell). The guitar work on the closer, "I'm Alive", is just that… great energy on this one. Very nicely recorded, with a full panorama of tones & overtones. My personal favorite of the xiii tunes offered up is the enchanting "To Dance Again"… five:thirteen minutes that volition stay in your listen and heart. I give Emily a HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (free energy caliber) rating of 4.98 for this fine release. Get more information at Emily's website. Rotcod Zzaj
Harlan Marker Vale – STILLNESS OF LIGHT: Over these last xx years, one musical friendship/constant has remained for this reviewer – the solid inventiveness of one of my closest musical pals. As you'll hear on this December 2015 release, Mark has exceeded his own goals; tunes similar the opener, "Abbey Route", will elevate your spirit to the outer reaches of your perception, as it did for me! Due to some personal circumstances, he's had time to devote himself to sonic expressions more and more than, particularly during this last eight or x months. Mark's tasty keyboard/synth realizations volition reach right downward to your inner cadre, and thrill you… his piano work on "Our Desires Are Also Small" illustrate an ever-clearer vision of why our struggle towards the lite is and so important – beautiful! Mark and I performed together (a LOT) back in the '90's, and I can tell y'all unequivocally that he has ascended to his about creative levels on compositions like my personal favorite on this release, "Steam From The Crater"… a magic sound-weave that will send you lot ever closer to the shining streams we all evolved from. I requite Mark a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of four.99 for this stellar release. Get more information nigh this great album at Marking'due south BANDCAMP folio for the release. Rotcod Zzaj
Mariea Antionette – Straight FROM THE HARP: I'll be straight-up on this one (as I am on every album/song I review); showtime heed to Mariea'south harp compositions fabricated me feel like I was at one of the old 'lxx'due south soul concerts, & would accept been easy to pigeonhole as "poppy"… but every bit I listened on through her downright grasp of funk on tunes like the spirit-filled "Special Treasures", it was easy to hear that she knows how to projection her visions (and her soul) into the mind of the beholder! She'south played for the Obamas, and it's like shooting fish in a barrel to hear why when you heed to smoothen-every bit-silk pieces similar her take on "Boogie Nights"… she really nails it on this 5:36 gem. My personal favorite of the eleven high-energy performances was "Stone Wit Cha"… the orchestral backing alone fabricated it something worth listening to over & over (& over) once again. I give Mariea a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of 4.98 for this special edition release. Go more information and bank check out her music at Mariea'south site. Rotcod Zzaj
Adam Ben Ezra – CAN'T Finish RUNNING: This all original dozen-song debut from Adam is totally stunning… Adam's double-bass (also as Vocals, Piano and Clarinet) is full of life, and his other players (Percussion: Gilad Dobrecky; Electric and Classical Guitar, Adam Ben Amitai; Violin and Viola in "The Busker" and "Openland", Chen Shenhar | Vocals in "Can't Stop Running" and "Openland", Gilad Dobrecky | Additional Vocals and Claps in "Garcia" and Guy Dayan | Coin drop in "The Busker": Udi Koomran) truly hit the "jazz mark" that all of u.s. defended jazz listeners love. Rather than label Adam & crew in the "jazz genre", I remember it'due south important to signal out that they are more inclined to the "artistic music" genre… songs like the 4:09 "The Busker" demonstrate a love for playing and expression of inner emotions that you've never heard before. One word of advice… be Certain you accept your headphones on with the volume upwardly at top levels every bit you lot listen to my personal favorite of the twelve tracks, the four:27 "Open Sesame"… what this vocal will do, in fact, is open your mind to new musical vistas. I give Adam and crew a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of (a perfect) 5.00 for this great release – which means information technology also gets the "PICK" of this issue for "most creative music". You can acquire more about this highly talented artist at Adam's bio page. Rotcod Zzaj
Paolo Porta – BEGINNER'S STATE OF Heed: As you lot'll hear, this excellent trio (Paolo Porta : tenor sax; Alessandro Maiorino: bass; Alessandro Minetto: drums) is annihilation BUT in that state of listen… they've been playing together for over 20 years, so what you'll be listening to is seasoned jazz veterans with both high talent and high energy! Mr. Minetto'southward drums & percussion on the virtually appropriately titled "Soulful Drums" will get your claret flowing & put you right on in there with the rhythm of life! "Peace Keeping" gives y'all a wonderful sax intro from Alessandro'southward tenor, then correct after the one infinitesimal mark, the energy from the other players kicks in. My personal favorite of the 10 tunes offered upward is the down & funky "Round Trip"… these folks know how to wrap y'all upwardly in their solid grooves & keep y'all there. I requite this 1 a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of 4.98. Become more data at the SLAM PRODUCTIONS label page for this release. Rotcod Zzaj
Many Artillery & Toshimaru Nakamura – PHILADELPHIA/TOKYO: This wild sonic ride isn't something you'd take yer' gramma' out to hear… as "wall of racket", though, information technology near perfectly fits the nib, so unless y'all already downed a whole bottle of white crosses, you lot won't need to take anything, 'coz tunes like the opener, "I", volition have you all th' way 'cantankerous boondocks & right upwards to the edge of the pyromaniacs handy-work… (over) 11 minutes of pure sonics that will leave you lot – ah, well, it volition probably NEVER leave you; ha! ha! At that place's nearly an hour'due south worth of edgy tonal bliss that volition get out y'all stunned (like, as in an electronic stun gun); on the other hand, tunes like my personal favorite, the 18:50 closer, "IV", will comport you right on out to the very edge of your reality – and, unless you're quite "experienced" (every bit Jimi might have said), you may not be able to return. I give this release a HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (free energy quotient) rating of 4.97. Get more information at the Public Eyesore page for this release. Rotcod Zzaj
Scott Cossu – Safe IN YOUR Artillery: …and there's no doubt that's exactly how you'll experience equally you lot listen to Scott'due south enchanting pianoforte piece of work on this release… songs like "Purple Mountain", with Scott'due south playing friends – guitarist Van Manakas, and alto flutists Ann Lindquist and John Croarkin – joining him in the swirling joy they create. The deep flute intro to the 4:36 "Gwenlaise" and the transitions to other instruments and mood is a perfect example of just how timeless (and flawless) a piece of music can be. One thing you'll carry away from this listening experience is how unique it is… no ane else has Scott's playing style, and those he's chosen to play with on this great album sympathize that (intimately plenty) to compliment his work to the fullest. It is the 5:29 closer, "Sanctuary", that gets my vote for personal favorite of the dozen songs offered up… yous'll be awash in the protection it offers from the mundane and day-to-24-hour interval. I give Scott and his friends a Virtually HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (free energy quotient) rating of 4.98 for this fine music. Go more information nigh Scott on his website. Rotcod Zzaj
Barney McClure – SHOW ME: Long-fourth dimension readers of this 'zine will know that nothing gets me more excited than great organ playing, & Barney'due south Hammond B3 is certainly among the best I've heard in the final decade, especially when paired with the Cardinal Washington University Big Band… it's not a combination I hear oft (most organ-related submissions here are quartets or quintets), but every bit yous listen to the stellar (& smokin') energy on "Hookin' It", yous'll hear right away why I fell in love with this album as soon as information technology started spinning! Even stalwart traditional songs like "Willow Weep For Me" are unlike than you've ever heard before… this is one of the best arrangements of that song I've ever heard. Of the ten songs offered up, it was the closer, "SchizoBlues" that got my vote for personal favorite… this one but COOKS, and Barney'southward B3 is full of life! I give Barney & the whole big band behind him a Well-nigh HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of 4.99 for this fine album. Get more information at the Origin Records page for this stellar release. Rotcod Zzaj
Hugo Fernandez – COSMOGRAM: Yous need expect no further if it's passion-filled guitar jazz your ears are thirsting for! Hugo and his pals (antonio Sanchez on drums, Antonio Miguel on acoustic bass and Ariel Bringuez on tenor & soprano sax) play with all the gusto you lot'd expect for their all-original release. Though this is my first listen (every bit well as yours, since it's a debut), tunes like the 8:24 "Reconciliation" blend the players' talents together for a spectacular & very groovy sonic upshot. The but critique is that only seven tunes left me wanting more… mayhap (at least) nine tunes on the side by side release? The recording is ultra-clean, and the energy literally shines with messages (as the title implies) from the cosmos… the joy comes alive on pieces like my personal favorite of the eight tunes offered up, the free energy simply flying on the five:45 "Sublime"… Hugo's guitar is hangin' right in that groove all jazz listeners honey! I give Hugo & his compatriots a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy caliber) rating of iv.98 for this commencement release. Get more information at the Origin Records page for the album.Rotcod Zzaj
Allison Au Quartet – FOREST GROVE: Information technology's been (merely) a bit since I reviewed Allison'due south first-class alto sax work (issue # 152), where she got high marks with her quartet… she's dorsum with new energy and a thespian list filled with loftier talent (Todd Pentney on Piano, Hammond B3, Rhodes, Wurlitzer, Synths; Jon Maharaj doing Bass, Electric Bass, Fabio Ragnelli playing Drums and guest Felicity Williams, Voice on Tracks 2,4,9). The keyboards on the high-energy "Aureole" were a true thriller for this reviewer, and the players were SO together on this great iv:34 tune. At a slightly slower pace, "Deluge" volition overwhelm your aural appendages with emotion and make you a true believer in this band ( totally dug Todd's keyboards on this one). A great 2nd release for Allison and her crew; it was the closer, "They Say We Are Not Here", that got my vote for personal favorite of the ix tracks offered up… simple, just totally stunning talent on this one. I give Allison and her band a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED for this i, with an "EQ" (free energy quotient) rating of 4.98. Yous can learn more about this high-talent creative person at Allison's website. Rotcod Zzaj
Marbin – AGGRESSIVE HIPPIES: If y'all're looking for music that combines the raw unadulterated rock of Frank Zappa's "Hot Rats" with the down/dirty funk of The Funkadelics "Hardcore Jollies", you need look no farther than the opener on this keen release, "Just Music"! The championship track, "Aggressive Hippies", certainly sounds similar The Dead on some of that "bad" acrid that was getting passed 'round on Mr. Yasgur's farm; the beauty, though, is that you'll survive the flashbacks, lol! I've reviewed them earlier, virtually recently in issue # 131, where they got very high marks. The players (Dani Rabin on guitar, Danny Markovitch on sax, Greg Essig on drums & John W. Lauter on bass) are among the best loftier-energy players in the 21st century, especially on tunes similar my personal favorite of the nine rockers offered up for yer' slammin' pleasance, "Y'all Are Expert"… if you tin't supernova on Dani'south stellar guitar leads on this tune, you're forever abandoned to the "No-Topia" of the Lawrence Welk show. I requite these folks a Nearly HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of (a perfect) v.00 – which means, of course, that they likewise go the "Choice" of this issue for "best high-free energy rock". Get more information at the MOONJUNE BANDCAMP page for this release. Rotcod Zzaj
Gerry Gibbs Thrasher Dream Trio – LIVE IN STUDIO: Equally on my previous reviews for this nifty group (last one was outcome # 149), I can't say enough about their solid jazz talent! Their take on "The Look Of Honey" is unique, with superb full-bodied vocals from Cassandra Wilson that volition capture your heart & soul in only moments. Since this was recorded in a studio with a live audience, yous get to hear their enthusiasm for the trio's version of "Sentinel What Happens"… the recording is flawless, likewise, and you'll feel similar you're right there with the rest of the crowd. Roy Hargrove'south trumpet on the lively closer, "Deception", is total jazz & captures energy yous won't soon forget. It was the neat percussion and the integrated experience of all the players existence then together on "Music To Watch The Girls Go By" that made information technology my personal favorite of the 16 songs offered up. If you're a true jazz fan, yous won't exist able to complete your drove until you've gotten this slap-up anthology! I requite the trio and their guests a MOST HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, with an "EQ" (energy quotient) rating of 4.99 for this stellar release. To get more than data, visit the Whaling City Sound page for this splendid album. Rotcod Zzaj
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