Occasionally I review an album that reminds me of a Monty Python classic -- And Now for Something Completely Different. In the past that has included everything from jazz bassoon to a harmonica and tuba duet. The latest example would have to be Sira, a new release on the ObliqSound label. It was recorded in … Continue reading REVIEW: Ablaye Cissoko & Volker Goetze – Sira
Category: Review
REVIEW: Stryker/Slagle Band – The Scene
Two of the busiest guys around the jazz world would have to be the pair who head up the Stryker/Slagle Band. Guitarist Dave Stryker and saxophonist Steve Slagle probably meet themselves coming and going, with busy schedules that include solo albums and appearances in other groups, but it's always a special treat when they come … Continue reading REVIEW: Stryker/Slagle Band – The Scene
REVIEW: Friedlander/Sarin/Dunn – Broken Arm Trio
A new album on the Skipstone label provides an unusual opportunity to hear something a little different from a jazz ensemble -- a cello lead, played sans bow. Genre-crossing virtuoso Erik Friedlander is the focal point of the unconventional group, which includes bassist Trevor Dunn and drummer Mike Sarin. The title of the album is … Continue reading REVIEW: Friedlander/Sarin/Dunn – Broken Arm Trio
REVIEW: Ava Logan – So Many Stars
I'm not 100% sure, but I think this is the first time I've ever reviewed a new album by a vet. That might surprise you, but when I say vet I'm not talking about a veteran musical artist or a veteran from military service - I've probably encountered a few of those. I'm talking about … Continue reading REVIEW: Ava Logan – So Many Stars
REVIEW: Ralph Lalama Quartet – Energy Fields
Although I enjoy a lot of different types of music, I am at heart a traditionalist. That's one of the reasons why I always look forward to any new album that features experienced and talented jazz pros, doing their thing. When the musicians fulfill that promise, it becomes a very pleasant listening experience. Case in … Continue reading REVIEW: Ralph Lalama Quartet – Energy Fields
REVIEW: Gumbeaux Rouge -Stirrin’ It Up
Most folks know something about gumbo, a dish that's generally accepted as having originated in Louisiana but that has since become common in many other areas. Although it's prepared in many different ways, it's basically a thick soup or stew that contains a lot of ingredients native to an area. Using that as a starting … Continue reading REVIEW: Gumbeaux Rouge -Stirrin’ It Up
REVIEW: David Leonhardt Trio – Explorations
It's always nice to find something a little different when reviewing a new album, and a recent release from Big Bang Records (gotta love that name) fills the bill -- but more later about that. Explorations is the latest from the David Leonhardt Trio, a group that - surprise - is led by pianist David … Continue reading REVIEW: David Leonhardt Trio – Explorations
REVIEW: Now That’s What I Call Country
I haven't reviewed a country music album for a while, but even though I'm a traditionalist who naturally leans heavily toward classic country (big surprise), a new compilation featuring today's country stars is still a pretty good listen. Now That's What I Call Country is from the same folks who have churned out a series … Continue reading REVIEW: Now That’s What I Call Country
REVIEW: Brazilian Trio – Forests
Here's a recipe for success. Take three talented musicians from Brazil who are all now living in New York, add a collection of Latin tunes - both traditional and original - and then give the threesome a perfectly descriptive name like The Brazilian Trio. The result is Forests, a new album on the Zoho label. … Continue reading REVIEW: Brazilian Trio – Forests
REVIEW: Bob Mover – It Amazes Me
Jazz saxophonist Bob Mover has an intriguing resume. A protege of Phil Woods, he was playing professionally at age 16 and subsequently performed alongside many stars, including Charles Mingus, Chet Baker, and one my favorites, alto sax legend Lee Konitz. It was an impressive beginning. Mover also spent some time leading his own group, but … Continue reading REVIEW: Bob Mover – It Amazes Me
Geezer Music Club 