Ulysses Quartet

Shades Of Romani Folklore

Navona, 2023

8/10

Listen to Shades Of Romani Folklore

The esteemed players Ulysses Quartet mesh Beethoven, Janáček, and Paul Frucht’s works into this dynamic and exciting string focused affair.

“String Quartet No. 4 in C Minor, Op. 18 No. 4” starts the listen with the animated violins from Christina Bouey and Rhiannon Banerdt, where the flowing climate is rich with melody via Beethoven’s vision.

Frucht’s “Rhapsody” arrives in the middle, and it’s full of meticulous cello thanks to Grace Ho, as Colin Brookes’ moody cello complements the diverse landscape, and Janáček’s “String Quartet No. 2, JW VII/13 "Listy důvěrné” exits with 4 chapters of turbulent, pretty and elegant string interaction that’s touching and exciting.

An outfit with much chemistry and talent, Ulysses Quartet continue their versatility and detailed ways with this tremendous body of work.

Travels well with: Jan Järvlepp- Flights Of Fancy; Michael G. Cunningham- Proscenium Moments

Unholy Modal Rounders

Unholier Than Thou 7/7/77

Don Giovanni, 2024

8/10

Listen to Unholier Than Though 7/7/77

A band that existed from 1975-1977 in New York City and were spearheaded by the always creative Peter Stampfel, Unholy Modal Rounders never released any music until now.

“Black Jack Davy” starts the listen with Stampfel’s lively fiddle alongside Jeff Berman’s thumping drums for the lively folk presence, and it isn’t long until “Old Kentucky Home” uses Charlie Messing’s spirited guitar and group vocals for a loose, jam band feel.

Further into Disc 1, “Kansas City Kitty” is a swift and rhythmic moment that benefits from Kirby Pines’ animated bass, while “Army Air Corps (Wild Blue Yonder)” spotlights Stampfel’s meticulous fiddle and the rapid fire drumming amid raw singing that’s anthemic.

Shifting to disc 2, the hazy and rich “Cleaning Up A Home” might be the best tune present, though “Jealous Daddy’s Death Song” is a close 2nd, where gritty melodies and Paul Presti’s bright guitar suits the busy vocals. “William Tell Overture Finale” exits, and it’s a speedy and dynamic finish with a rumbling rhythm section and fascinating strings.

These recordings represent the last 2 times Unholy Modal Rounders ever played, and it’s a charming brand of freak-folk, psychedelic Americana and old time flavor that sure has aged well.

Travels well with: Peter Stampfel & The Bottle Caps- Demo ‘84; Sonofmel- Springtime In A Foreign City

Unleashed Cooperation

Trust

Multikulti Project, 2024

9/10

Listen to Trust

The Polish jazz outfit Unleashed Cooperation also recruit folk and improv ideas into these 8 unpredictable and exciting tracks.

“String Theory” gets the listen off to a warm start, where Patryk Rynkiewicz’s glowing trumpet and Patryk Matwiejczuk’s mesmerizing keys work together fluidly, and “Coincidende 1” follows with Anna Gadt’s gorgeous, wordless voice amid Krzysztof Kuśmierek’s pretty sax for the soft climate.

Halfway through, “Polistes Dominula” allows for Flavio Gullotta’s meticulous bass to shine in the cozy album highlight, while “Mr. Paul’s Beautiful Dream” benefits much from the hazy brass and Stanisław Aleksandrowicz’s subtle drumming via a distinct elegance.

Near the end, “Laura’s Theme” twinkles with mystery and ambience, and “Sea” exits with low bass, manipulated keys and somewhat of a ‘found objects’ mood that’s both intimate and unusual in the very capable hands.

Two of the selections are improvised miniatures, and the remainder are atypical originals, where the 6 players all exhibit a wealth of talent and a superb, exploratory vision of modern jazz.

Travels well with: Teis Semey- En Massei!; Thomas Backman- Nothing

Uncle Walt's Band

Thought You’d Never Ask: The Complete 1975 Armadillo Records Recordings

Omnivore, 2024

10/10

Listen Thought You’d Never Ask: The Complete 1975 Armadillo Records Recordings

The South Carolina outfit Uncle Walt’s Band, i.e. David Ball, Deschamps Hood, and Walter Hyatt, laid down these 22 tracks in 1975 and intended them to be used for the Warner Brothers demos, which never materialized.

Here they reside in an official setting, where 19 of the tracks are previously unissued and new liner notes from renowned journalist and producer Bill Bentley complete the package.

The warm and retro fun of “Beauty In The Flesh” starts the listen with glowing vocal harmonies (what the band were known for), and it’s not long until “Getaway” emits traditional country ideas that enter their flowing 3 part harmonies.

Further along, “For The Time” radiates much beauty via the intimate delivery that meshes rich strings in a bluegrass sort of way, while “Billy Goat Hop” carries a playful spirit thanks to the meticulous guitar and distinct singing.

Deeper still, the fluid keys of “Whatever Reason” complements the textured guitars and layered voices, and “Your Tender Kiss” exits with a nostalgic mood that’s dreamy, uniquely harmonic and timeless.

When Uncle Walt’s Band ended in the early ‘80s, they were residing in Austin, Texas, where they were local favorites. Hyatt and Hood would both pass away young, but their music will live on indefinitely thanks to reissues like this, and plenty of tributes and various versions of the band that have played over the years.

Travels well with: Uncle Walt’s Band- Recorded Live At Waterloo Ice House; Steve Earle & The Dukes- Ghosts Of West Virginia

Tyler Ellis

Greater Than

Self-Released, 2024

8/10

Listen to Greater Than

The Toronto artist Tyler Ellis captured these tracks live at The Free Times Cafe in Toronto, and they illuminate his folk inspired song craft that reminds us of John Prine or Bob Snider

“Home Free” arrives early with Ellis’ charming brand of talking and singing alongside warm acoustic guitar, and “Campfire Song” continues the intimacy with bright storytelling that suits the gentle strumming.

Deeper into the set, “House Of Hambourg” carries a mesmerizing quality via its gentle nature, while “Down And Up” is both heartfelt and humorous, as Ellis discusses the cycle of life poetically.

Near to the end, “Lottery Blues” indeed comes with a bluesy flavor via the minimal and emotive delivery, and “Music As Usual” invites a sing-along right way, where a timeless folk quality surrounds the authentic and joyful mood.

An effort that is wise, relatable and introspective, this is Ellis’ 7th album and it’s never short of melody and sincerity that everyone can enjoy.

Travels well with: Noah Zacharin- Points Of Light; Ryan Wayne- Crow Amongst The Sparrows

The Twangtown Paramours

The Wind Will Change Again

Inside Edge, 2025

9/10

Listen to The Wind Will Change Again

The esteemed duo of Marybeth Zamer and Mike T. Lewis, as The Twangtown Paramours they pen their first folk album in 12 years, where Jim Vancleve, Rick Lonow, Rave Tesar, Ed Alstrom and Jeff Taylor join for the well thought out listen.

“Sincerely Yours No More” starts the record with Zamer’s gorgeous voice alongside Vancleve’s stirring violin for the bluegrass spirit, and “A Room In Bordeaux” follows with a jazzy mood, where Lonow’s agile drums and Tayor’s mesmerizing accordion make an impression.

Further along, the frisky “That Thing You Do” puts a fun spin on the Adam Schlesinger tune with Zamer’s playful vocals front and center, and “Showin’ Off For Their Girlfriends” places Lewis on vocals amid the bouncy and upbeat demeanor.

Close to the end, “Tonight I Think I’m Gonna Go Downtown” is a lovely and dreamy moment of one guitar and two voices, and the title track exits with Alstrom’s lively keys suiting the festive climate that finishes on a very strong note.

A very diverse outing, the bulk of the songs are acoustic, as the husband and wife duo continue to impress us with their superb originals and creative covers.

Travels well with: The Twangtown Paramours- Double Down On A Bad Thing; Steve Erickson- Crooked Road

TT

Man On The Corner

Self-Released, 2025

8/10

Listen to Man On The Corner

The debut from an artist who has a long connection to music that stems from childhood health problems, TT pens songs about his own experiences that revolve around Americana and introspection.

The warm and country fueled “My Confession” begins the listen with cozy singing and much melody, and “Let Us Breathe” follow with a driving pace of fluid guitars and crisp drumming, as TT’s distinct vocals enter.

Deeper into the listen, the acoustic guitar fueled “My Kinda Cowgirl” carries a thumping and anthemic quality that uses soaring electric guitar, too, while “Old Glory” trims the pace back with balladry, where gritty moments enter thanks to the expressive vocals and folk qualities.

Residing close to the end, the pretty “You Gotta Earn Me” carries an infectious energy via the soothing backing vocals and scrappy musicianship, and “A Moment Ago” exits with sublime piano and powerful singing that tugs on the heartstrings.

TT has endured many hardships in his life, but he’s taken those experiences and shaped them into excellent art, where roots, classical, country and rock’n’roll are all part of his timeless formula.

Travels well with: Vakili Band- Honey; Sarah King- When It All Goes Down

20/20

Back To California

Spyderpop, 2025

10/10

Listen to Back To California

The power-pop and New Wave legends 20/20 are back with 11 new, energetic songs that illustrates Steve Allen, Ron Flynt and Ray Flynt sounding as relevant and exciting as they did in 1979.

The thumping and rich title track opens the listen with warm singing that complements the rugged melodies, and “Why Do I Hurt Myself” follows with a calmer approach that’s plenty harmonic and mixes grit with soaring moments.

Further along, the crisp “Lucky Heart” doesn’t shy away from hooks and plenty of meticulous guitar licks, while “When The Sun Goes Down” carries a bit of a jangle amid the playful indie-pop qualities.

Residing near the end, “Long Distance Call” uses keys splendidly in a more soulful climate of grace and maturity, and “Farewell” exits with the strategic bass lines and expressive singing that’s heartfelt and sophisticated.

A triumphant return for the trio who have existed in various forms over the decades, Allen and Ron Flynt are original members, and this first album since ‘98 proves that no matter how long between recordings, 20/20 can pen an album of distorted guitars, Beatlesque pop, and even country-rock bits that you can’t not admire.

Travels well with: The Speed Of Sound- A Cornucopia: Minerva; Sparkle* Jets U.K- Box Of Letters

Troy Engle

Back Home

Pinecastle, 2024

9/10

Listen to Back Home

The multi-instrumentalist and singer Troy Engle pens a listen where he plays all the instruments and brings a nostalgic feel to his authentic songwriting.

The warm and fluid title track starts the listen with flowing mandolin and frisky drums complementing Engle’s harmonic vocals, and “Boy I Used To Be” follows with a calmer mood, where beauty and reflection unfold with expressive storytelling and melodic guitar.

Moving into the middle, “Outrun The Pain” swirls with plenty of timeless bluegrass appeal, where meticulous banjo and soaring fiddle won’t go unnoticed, while “Some Times Don’t Go Out Of Style” trims the pace back with a sublime warmth that benefits from breezy acoustic guitar and hazy pedal steel.

Close to the end, the intimate “There’s Always A Road” tugs on the heartstrings via its poetic delivery, and “We Built A Life” exits with a distinct dreaminess that’s graceful and powerful.

Engle takes contributions on the songwriting side from Billy Whyte, Justin Carbone, Alan Bibey, Rick Lang and Jenny Lynn Pickel, and he plays acoustic guitar, mandolin, banjo, fiddle, upright bass, resophonic guitar, resophonic pedal steel, strings, baritone guitar and drums/percussion. It makes for an excellent and accomplished meshing of bluegrass and gospel that will always be in demand.

Travels well with: Wilson Banjo Co.- Memory Lane; The Goodwin Brothers- If You Hadn’t Noticed

tellKujira

tellKujira

Superpang, 2023

8/10

Listen to tellKujira

A Rome outfit with a penchant for artistic ideas, Ambra Chiara Michelangeli, Francesco Diodati, Francesco Guerri and Stefano Calderno, i.e. tellKujira bring a lot of unpredictability to these 5 pieces.

“Kujira” opens the listen with much ambience, where light guitar floats amid the sounds of tinkering in very mysterious ways, and “Trompe les dieux” follows with Michelangeli’s strategically plucked viola that suits the gorgeous cello from Guerri.

Halfway through, “Tomwaits” builds into a jarring, aberrant display of noisy dynamics, while “Interior Sketch” mixes the careful strings with distinct droning and cinematic swells for the iconoclastic 10+ minutes. The record exits with “Piece sombre”, where Calderno and Diodati’s dreamy guitars intersect with sci-fi like gestures that are quite unusual.

Part electronica, part free jazz and part art-rock, this is an abstract and polyrhythmic adventure that you’re not likely to hear anywhere else, but that you’ll certainly want to revisit again.

Travels well with: R.Y.F.- Deep Dark Blue; Lovataraxx-Sophomore

Tristan Israel Band

Snake Hollow

Self-Released, 2024

8/10

Listen to Snake Hollow

The multi-instrumentalist and singer Tristan Israel brings an excellent cast of players to this musically and lyrical diverse 4th album.

The upbeat and warm title track starts with Mike Israel’s frisky drums and Nancy Jephcote’s well timed violin, and “Massachusetts” follows with a flowing intimacy via the soulful backing vocals and charming acoustic guitar.

Further along, Israel lends harmonica to the vivid storytelling of “Water Over The Dam”, while “When I Die” places Phil Spillane on harmonica amid the violin acrobatics and Paul Thurlow’s frisky bass lines.

Very close to the end, “Galicia” allows Jephcote’s stirring piano to complement Israel’s poetic singing and “On Our Way” exits with both grit and melody populating the sincerity.

Sometimes anthemic, other times bluesy, folksy or rootsy and/or country, Israel and his band make for a dramatic, eclectic and memorable body of work.

Travels well with: Jubal Lee Young- Wild Birds Warble; Dana Cooper- The Ghost Of Tucumcari

Trojka

Strobemørke

Apollon, 2024

9/10

Listen to Strobemørke

The Norwegian prog-rockers Trojka return with a 3rd album, where strings, synth, drums and guitars unfold with plenty of pop qualities.

“Aldri/Alltid” starts the listen with tribal like drumming before shimmering guitar enters alongside the flowing melodies, and “Parasitt” follows with a dreamy mood, where crisp drumming and meticulous guitars guide the bright climate.

In the middle, “Hjerteteppe” uses expressive singing via the playful and warm delivery, while “En smak av evighet” employs rugged guitar and soulful vocals that hit some high notes.

The loudest and best tune, “Satans Disko”, exits, and it welcomes thumping drums, raw guitars and distinct singing to both busy and calm moments.

The band features August Riise (keys and synth), Simon Kverneng (bass and vocals), Gjert Hermansen (drums, percussion and vocals) and Fredrik Mekki Widerøe (guitar and vocals), and they sure do create exciting prog-pop sounds here.

Travels well with: Sunface- Cloud Castles; The Dredge- Torches

Gaia Wilmer & Jaques Morelenbaum

Trem Das Cores

Sarapui, 2023

8/10

Listen to Trem Das Cores

A record that celebrates the work of Brazil’s Caetano Veloso, Gaia Wilmer’s sax and Jacques Morelenbaum’s cello are surrounded by some excellent players for this very well thought out affair.

“Trilhos Urbanos” starts the listen with Oran Etkin’s dense bass clarinet and Vitor Goncalves’ lively accordion making for a rhythmic opening, and the title track follows with Monica Salmaso’s gorgeous voice adding much richness to Gustavo D’Amico’s soulful soprano sax.

In the middle, the intricate bass from Eduardo Belo complements the mesmerizing spirit of “Minha Voz Minha Vida”, while “Luz Do Sol” is full of ambience via the quivering sax, mysterious flute from Maiara Moraes and Vinicius Gomes’ blurry guitar.

Close to the end, “Tropicália” carries some rock tendencies thanks to Eduardo Ribeiro’s fluid drums that suit the upbeat album highlight, and “A Terceira Margem Do Rio” exits with a textured and dynamic finish of cultured melodies.

A glowing tribute that honors Veloso’s work as a singer and poet, Wilmer and Morelenbaum’s skills unfold with timelessness and gorgeous jazz nods that are globally embraceable.

Travels well with: Strat Andriotis- Exits; The Gabrielle Stravelli Trio- Beautiful Moons Ago

The Tremeloes

Master

Think Like A Key, 2024

9/10

Listen to Master

An English beat outfit who saw much success during the British invasion, Master was originally released in 1970, and here it lives again in remastered form with new liner notes and 11 bonus tracks.

The thumping drums and gritty appeal of “Wait For Me” starts the listen with plenty of melody, and “Long Road” follows with bright brass and plenty of pop ideas surrounding the retro ideas.

Deeper into the original, the radiant guitar and smooth vocals of “But Then I” comes with rich vocal harmonies, while “I Swear” uses psychedelia to their advantage thanks to the well timed keys and multiple voices.

The formal LP ends on the chart topping “Me And My Life”, where the intricate guitar and playful rhythm section adds much intrigue, and the bonus material starts with the bouncy bass and rhythmic guitars of “(Call Me) Number One”.

Closer to the end, the dense and groove filled “Right Wheel, Left Hammer, Sham” will get your body moving, and “What Can I Do” exits with a dreamy mood of nostalgic rock and pop.

This release had the band exploring their heavier, more inwardly directed side, and it illustrates Hendrix style riffs and Crosby, Stills & Nash friendly harmonies without detracting too far from their Beatlesque pop. The band would go on hiatus for much of the ‘70s, but this record sure kept fans happy despite the absence.

Travels well with: Dave Clark Five- All The Hits; The Left Banke- Strangers On A Train

Trendafilka

For The Olives

Self-Released, 2024

8/10

Listen to For The Olives

The New Orleans outfit Trendafilka make quite an impression with this sophomore album, where seasonal and ritual songs from Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Greece, Ukraine, Latvia, and Lithuania are fleshed out by the eleven-piece, all-female vocal ensemble.

“Chichovite Konye” starts the listen with the harmonic and radiating voices showing a diverse range, and “Zamruknala e Moma Yana” follows with a soothing approach of eloquent singing that’s immediately gripping.

Moving into the middle, “Joniniu Sutartine” layers the vocals strategically for a mesmerizing effect, while “Zaspalo e Chelebiche” is a pretty and heartfelt album highlight that showcases the rich tone of the sublime vocals.

Arriving near the end, “Po Moryu” uses a call and response technique with soaring results, and “Zvezda Vechernitsa” exits with a bright tone of colorful and globally embraceable sentiment that’s delivered flawlessly.

The languages sung on the album are many, and the spring calling, summer solstice ritual, harvest and winter ritual songs are executed with plenty of folk nods and much worldly flavor via the European polyphonic traditions.

Travels well with: Steven Keene- This World Is Your World; Yosef Gutman Levitt-The World And Its People

Trio San

Hibiki

Jazzdor, 2023

9/10

Listen to Hibiki

An exceptional trio of Satoko Fujii, Yuko Oshima and Taiko Saito, as Trio San they bring a colorful and rich delivery to these 6 tracks that were fleshed out following a quick European tour.

The title track starts with a calm mood, where Fujii’s minimal keys builds into moments of mystery amid the often sparse climate that uses Saito’s vibraphone playfully, and “Soba” follows with a more rumbling approach, where the glowing vibes and Oshima’s unpredictable percussion don’t disappoint.

Halfway through, “Yozakura” comes with a cinematic quality that manipulates space and tension with flowing keys and wild drumming that escalates into a dizzying display, while “What You See” leads with agile drumming acrobatics before gentle keys enter the atypical landscape.

“Ichigo”, the best tune, exits, and it’s a turbulent display of dense drums, bright vibes and meticulous keys that get busy, dynamic and nearly erratic via the trio’s very capable skills.

A thrilling debut that balances odd meters, atypical solos, no lack of atmosphere and rock, chamber and improvised nods, this is a truly unique version of jazz to be appreciated.

Travels well with: Satoko Fujii Tokyo Trio- Jet Black; Noah Haidu- Standards II

Spy Dénommé-Welch/Catherine Magowan

Transpositions

Unsettled Scores, 2024

8/10

Listen to Transpositions

An instrumental affair that highlights the vision of Spy Dénommé-Welch and Catherine Magowan, the 8 tracks here represent a very distinct version of contemporary classical sounds.

“Scan/Machine” starts the listen with Justin McLean’s glowing tuba alongside Christine Cheongyeong Bae’s unpredictable piano, and “Boiling Frog” follows with animated keys and McLean’s lively brass that makes for a cinematic climate.

In the middle, the swift keys and dancing strings of Alyssa Delbaere-Sawchuk’s viola are quite exciting, while “False Fugue: When All is Felled” is an expressive and atypical album highlight that carries a hint of mystery.

Close to the end, “Aftershocks” carries a rare intimacy in between the animated bouts of keys, and “Acclimation” exits with meticulous piano, fluid strings and low brass working together strategically.

Another intriguing release from Unsettled Scores, the chamber, classical, orchestral and modern appeal is executed with tremendous dynamics and a very highly artistic presence.

Travels well with: Tim Brady- Imagine Many Guitars; Stefan Smulovitz- Bow & Brush

Toomai String Quintet

Passos Brasileiros

Self-Released, 2024

9/10

Listen to Passos Brasileiros

A New York outfit with a penchant for worldly sounds, Toomai String Quintet bring us 13 songs of their dynamic string interaction what welcomes a few guests, too.

“Garrote” starts the listen with dancing strings collaborating for much warmth and energy, where the guest Dana Kelley handles viola, and “Saudades das Selvas Brasileiras No. 2” follows with Hamilton Berry’s emotive cello guiding the gracefulness.

Further along, “Cais” makes for a stirring moment, where Alex Fortes and Emilee-Anne Gendron’s sublime violins make an impression, while “Espiral” makes great use of Andrew Roitstein’s plucked bass that suits the mysterious album highlight.

Deeper into the back half, “Domingo no Parque” is a lively selection that balances George Meyer’s careful viola amid the collaborative climate, and “Pintou um Grilo” invites guests Léa Freire’s bright piano and Emma Frucht’s expressive violin to the rich and meticulous track.

A diverse and globally enjoyable sophomore album, Toomai String Quintet recruit a wealth of talent that pays homage to Brazil’s rich musical legacy with plenty of choro, samba, Brazilian jazz, classical music, and Música Popular Brasileira (MPB) to be appreciated.

Travels well with: Pathos Trio- Polarity; Timuçin Şahin’s Flow State- Funk Poems For ‘Bird’

Towner Galaher Organ Group

Brothers

Rhythm Royale, 2025

9/10

Listen to Brothers

The esteemed drummer, composer and bandleader Towner Galaher steps back into the ‘70s for these 8 originals that find plenty of grooves and warmth.

The title track starts the listen with no lack of grooves thanks to Craig Handy’s lively sax and Randy Monroe’s funky bass lines, and “Hit It And Quit It” follows with a dynamic energy, where Jimmy Sanders’ glowing keys suit Galaher’s drumming acrobatics.

Halfway through, “The Diamond Chalice” finds an intimate place to reside, where soulful sax is met with a dreamy mood, while “Piece Of The Action” picks the pace up with a swift and animated execution that balances playful bass, booming brass and agile drumming.

The last two tracks, “Past Present And Future” and “Seventh Heaven”, don’t disappoint either. The former carries a timeless spirit via the meticulous keys and fluid rhythm section, and the latter is an upbeat and rich finish that allows the player’s respective talents to shine.

An exciting blend of jazz, funk and rock, Galaher and company unleash stunning solos and grooves in spades for this timeless body of work.

Travels well with: Chad Edwards- Wyoming Roads; Adam Hersh- Tornado Watch

Ben Winship

Toolshed

Self-Released, 2019

8/10

Listen to Toolshed

One of two albums released by the Idaho musician and engineer Ben Winship, Toolshed has the roots artist exploring his creativity with a full band and plenty luminous guests on hand.

The title track gets the album off to a playful start with acoustic guitars and warm vocals from Winship on an Americana and country fueled opener, and “That’s What Ghosts Are For”, with Owen Winship, follows and brings a soulful setting to the haunting folk tune.

Elsewhere, “Crossing The Great Divide” recruits Travis Book on a track with soft horns and rootsy ideas where vocal harmonies complement the cautious atmosphere, while “The Buzzard’s Dilemma” doesn’t need vocals for its retro, dixie beauty to shine bright.

The back half of the record offers us “Always The Mountain”, where a rugged spirit winds through the Americana/folk instrumentation, as well as “What’s The Matter With The Well”, where Ivan Nevile helps illuminate the funky, bluesy album highlight. “I Thought You Were A Goat #2” ends the listen with hip-hop nods in a percussively strong exit that’s unexpected and easy to embrace.

Releasing a pair of albums on the same date after 22 decades away from solo work is probably not a task many musicians would take on, but Winship pulls off the feat with poise, balance and extremely proficient skill.

Travels well with: Tom Waits- Rain Dogs; Woody Guthrie- Dust Bowl Ballads