Andy Ezrin, I Was Here Review by Adorjan Horvát No instrument in jazz has been more fertile, adaptable, or evasive than the piano. At once the most workaday of tools—where songs are composed, recomposed, arranged, and rearranged—and the source of sublime, in-the-moment flights of ecstasy, the piano is a paradox of precision and freedom. Andy Ezrin … Read more
Pritesh Walia, Hopetown Review by Steph Cosme Pritesh Walia is releasing his debut album, a sonic declaration of intent, and a preview of the musical journey ahead called Hopetown. This album shows his guitar skills and ability to create a narrative of musical evolution as he leads his guitar trio. Walia’s rise has been a quiet … Read more
Marc Ciprut, Moonshine Review by Steph Cosme When it comes to fusion, few artists can blend the blues with the many shades of fusion as compellingly as Marc Ciprut. With his latest release, Moonshine, Ciprut presents a cohesive and electrifying sonic experience. As a guitarist, composer, and producer, he creates a unique jazz, blues, and funk … Read more
Eric Alexander, Timing Is Everything Review by Adorjan Horvát Eric Alexander’s latest album, Timing Is Everything, released on May 24, 2024, by Cellar Live, encapsulates the essence of contemporary jazz through its vibrant and meticulous execution. Alexander, renowned for his robust melodic and harmonic imagination, offers a compelling journey into the heart of jazz, deftly weaving … Read more
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