Bill Laurance & The Untold Orchestra, Bloom Review by Steph Cosme In the sophisticated realm of orchestral jazz, pianist and composer Bill Laurance has consistently demonstrated a mastery that captivates and educates. His latest album, Bloom, released by ACT, furthers his exploration with classical acoustic instruments, piano, and electronic textures. Bloom is a lush, meticulously crafted journey that speaks … Read more
Paula Atherton, Dancin’ Shoes Review by Steph Cosme Close your eyes and imagine a world where Latin rhythms swirl with smooth, soulful saxophones, flute, and vocals punctuated by infectious grooves. That’s the world Paula Atherton creates with her latest album, Dancin’ Shoes. A powerhouse in contemporary smooth jazz with a string of hit songs and collaborations … Read more
Mariah Parker, Windows Through Time Review Mariah Parker’s latest album, Windows Through Time, is a unique addition to her critically acclaimed discography, which includes Sangria and Indo Latin Jazz Live in Concert. This album is a captivating journey through the world of Latin jazz, showcasing Parker’s genre-bending brilliance. The ensemble, featuring Paul McCandless on saxophone, … Read more
Chris Potter, Eagle’s Point Review Eagle’s Point is Chris Potter’s latest album, which features a contemporary jazz narrative of artistic convergence and sublime musical expressions. Potter, an architect of melodic intricacies, has carefully sculpted a space where the virtues of jazz are meticulously celebrated. Through this album, released by Edition Records in Spring 2024, Potter and … Read more
Andrew Binder’s Conspiracy Deliracy, Conspiracy Deliracy Review In today’s jazz, tradition often intertwines with contemporary sounds and influences, Andrew Binder’s latest project, Conspiracy Deliracy, is a compelling-sounding project with this dynamic interplay. Binder, a bassist and composer rooted deeply in the jazz tradition and modern compositional techniques, leverages his extensive academic background and practical experience to … Read more
Dave Stryker Trio, Groove Street Review The Dave Stryker Trio is back with another contemporary jazz album, Groove Street. The nine-song narrative is performed by the Dave Stryker Trio and the legendary tenor saxophonist Bob Mintzer. Recorded in the heart of summer 2023 and subsequently hitting the airwaves in January 2024, this collection of compositions and arrangements … Read more
Nubya Garcia, Fortify Review In the ever-evolving sonics of contemporary jazz, a new single has captured the spirit of innovation and cross-genre stimuli called “Fortify” by Nubya Garcia. Presenting a blend of rhythmic complexity and melodic warmth, the track is built with Garcia’s skill as a saxophonist and her quartet’s exceptional synergy. The track’s production, … Read more
Technocats, Technocats: The Music of Gregg Hill Review Technocats: The Music of Gregg Hill by Technocats, a jazz group with strong ties to Michigan State University’s jazz studies program. Detroit and its neighboring regions, including East Lansing, have long been fertile grounds for jazz talent. This album by Technocats, a group of Michigan State University-connected musicians, … Read more
Ambrose Akinmusire, Owl Song Review Ambrose Akinmusire’s latest offering, Owl Song, released via Nonesuch Records, marks a significant chapter in modern jazz. The album shows Akinmusire’s evolution as a trumpeter and composer, unfolding an intimate narrative through a trio formation, including guitarist Bill Frisell and drummer Herlin Riley. This unique assembly breathes life into Akinmusire’s … Read more
Vin Venezia, The Venetian Review Vin Venezia, a brilliant jazz guitar talent, showcases his mastery and versatility in his latest album, The Venetian. Released on September 8, 2023, by Innervision Records, this collection, consisting predominantly of standards, displays Venezia’s deep understanding of jazz’s rich tradition and his ability to imbue it with a contemporary flair. Opening … Read more