Michael Mayo

Fly

Mack Avenue, 2024

8/10

Listen to Fly

The Los Angeles artist Michael Mayo returns with a sophomore album, where his jazz, neo-soul and R&B ways unfold across 11 well thought out tracks.

“Bag Of Bones” gets the listen off to a soulful start, where Scott Mayo’s well timed soprano sax and Shai Maestro’s strategic rhodes complement Mayo’s smooth pipes, and “Just Friends” follows with Nate Smith’s agile drumming that aligns well with the heartfelt delivery.

Halfway through, the title track uses Valerie Pinkston’s radiant backing vocals amid Maestro’s glowing synth and no lack of charming scatting, while “Frenzy” is a dreamy moment of meticulous guitar from Mayo, as well as Linda May’s dizzying bass.

Close to the end, “Four” uses claps and animated scatting to its advantage, and “Speak No Evil” exits with the precise rhythm section and a very rich interaction for the dynamic finish.

Mayo pulls off some vocal acrobatics via the harmonizing, beatboxing and emotive crooning, and the top notch musicians present only add more allure to the bebop and layered fun.

Travels well with: Lakecia Benjamin- Phoenix; Vanisha Gould- She’s Not Shiny, She’s Not Smooth

Laura Lentz

Prismatic/Plasmonic

Self-Released, 2024

9/10

Listen to Prismatic/Plasmonic

The flutist, educator and composer Laura Lentz brings electronics into these 3 creative interpretations of pieces by Calhoun, Debussy and Upshaw.

“Prismatic Wind”, by Chloe Upshaw, opens the listen with the dreamy flute amid much ambience, as plenty of exploration unfolds with both tension and soothing qualities that wrap the listener into a meshing of wonder and awe.

Sean William Calhoun’s “Plasmonic Mirror” arrives in the middle and focuses on climate change and the environment via the adventurous percussive nods and plenty of cinematic bouts that balance beauty and friskiness.

The last track, “Syrinx”, emits a distinct cautiousness, where Debussy’s vision is fueled by alto flute and the chilling electronics that guide the two-note motif with profound attention to detail.

A really unique EP that is nothing short of spellbinding, there’s plenty of classical and pop bursts to enjoy across the innovative landscape.

Travels well with: Laura Lentz- Jacob’s Triptych; Eric Moe- Strenuous Pleasures

Mike Stern

Echoes And Other Songs

Mack Avenue, 2024

9/10

Listen to Echoes And Other Songs

The seminal guitarist Mike Stern brings along some excellent company for these 11 tracks that pull from a variety of influences and are as powerful as they are memorable.

“Connections” starts the listen warm and rich, where Stern’s precise guitar is met with Christian McBride’s fluid bass and Antonio Sanchez’s intricate drumming, and “Echoes” follows with Chris Potter’s well timed tenor sax helping illuminate the melodic landscape.

“I Hope So” and “Where’s Leo?” occupy the middle spots. The former welcomes Leni Stern’s ngoni and Bob Franceschini’s soprano sax for the cultured delivery that even uses scatting, while the latter benefits much from Arto Tuncboyacian’s animated percussion that suits Stern’s meticulous guitar.

Close to the end, “Curtis” is a more intimate moment where Dennis Chamber sits behind the drum kit and Stern even provides backing vocals, and “Could Be” exits with Jim Beard’s lively keys complementing the breezy guitar licks and McBride’s skilled acoustic bass.

Stern has racked up an impressive 6 Grammy Nominations and it’s clear why; his unique vision and superb execution make for a diverse, hook-friendly and bop fueled journey you won’t soon forget.

Travels well with: Oz Noy- Riverside; Lee Ritenour- Dreamcatcher

Gunhild Carling

Jazz Is My Lifestyle

Jazz Art, 2024

9/10

Listen to Jazz Is My Lifestyle

The multi-instrumentalist Gunhild Carling treats us to 11 originals, where a Big Band presence fuels the swing and ballad moments that are quite fun.

The upbeat and festive title track starts the listen with Scotty Barnhart’s lively trumpet suiting Carling’s smokey voice, and “Shaking The Bangkok” follows with Chloe Feoranzo’s flowing clarinet complementing the dance floor ready mood.

In the middle, “Fire Alarm” benefits much from Roy Gerson’s lively keys amid Carling’s animated trombone, while “Mardi Gras Blues” uses well timed backing vocals and Danny House’s bright alto sax via the infectious energy.

Arriving near the end, the intimate “Winter’s Day” has Carling handling harp for the dreamy atmosphere of elegance, and “I’ll Wait For You In San Francisco” exits with glorious strings, ukulele from Carling and a charming cinematic quality.

The 13 horn big band, Prague Strings Chamber Orchestra and plenty of guests sure do add much to the memorable tunes, as Carling’s inimitable talents shine in the playful versus heartfelt songwriting that we could never tire of.

Travels well with: Carl Clements- A Different Light; Randy Weinstein- Harmonimonk

The Georgia Thunderbolts

Rise Above It All

Mascot, 2024

9/10

Listen to Rise Above It All

The Georgia Thunderbolts return with a sophomore album, where their exciting meshing of Southern Rock, blues and Americana unfolds across 13 tracks.

The lively and rhythmic “Gonna Shine” starts the listen with TJ Lyle’s smooth voice guiding the power and melody, and “Rock And Roll Record” follows with playful keys and Bristol Perry’s hard hitting drums.

Further along, “Ain’t Got No Money” uses Logan Tolbert and Riley Couzzourt’s swirling guitars for the rich and thumping album highlight, while “She’s Gonna Get It” showcases timeless and flowing blues rock that we could never tire of.

Landing close to the end, “Stand Up” benefits from Zach Everett’s bass acrobatics amid the soulful backing vocals and soaring guitar solos, and “Pricetag” exits with a dense atmosphere of dynamics and chugging rock that’s not short on southern flavor and classic rock nods.

In the area of modern blues rock, few are as great as this Rome, Georgia quintet. Every track here is flawlessly executed and memorable, as they balance hard hitting ideas and harmonic gestures fluidly.

Travels well with: The Georgia Thunderbolts- The Georgia Thunderbolts; Lee Ritenour- Dreamcatcher

Kate McDonnell

Trapeze

Dog Eared, 2024

8/10

Listen to Trapeze

The 6th album from the singer-songwriter and guitarist Kate McDonnell, the 14 well thought out songs were penned across 3 years and welcome Sam Zucchini, James Gascoyne and Jimi Woodul.

The warm acoustic guitar and upbeat folk-rock fun of “Pretty Good Day” benefits much from McDonnell’s cozy voice, and “Come Over Here” follows with a distinct love song that uses Bob Dylan’s nods and recruits Zucchini’s fluid drums.

Further along, “Step Right Up” emits crisp melodies and Woodul’s radiant guitar that suits the vocal harmonies, while “Fight For Your Life” has both grit and tunefulness present, where Gascoyne’s well timed bass adds to the dreamy bouts.

Deeper yet, “Tea In China” uses eloquent storytelling and a mid-tempo approach with intimate moments, and “You Won’t Blow Away” exits with a charming, blues-friendly appeal that comes with soulful song craft.

An accomplished effort with global appeal, McDonnell employs both uplifting and moody ideas for her memorable folk songs.

Travels well with: Hana Zara- Bloom Where You Fall; Rebecca Frazier- Boarding Windows In Paradise

Louis Stewart & Jim Hall

The Dublin Concert

Livia, 2024

9/10

Listen to The Dublin Concert

Recorded way back in 1982, this live set from the guitarists Louis Stewart and Jim Hall spotlights each of their distinct jazz styles via 8 standards and improvised dialogue.

“Stella By Starlight” opens the evening with a striking duo setting of the Victor Young tune with strong attention to detail and warmth, and “2 Degrees East, 3 Degrees West” follows with a superb solo moment from Hall, where his meticulous technique is quite rhythmic.

At the midpoint, “All The Things You Are”, by Jerome Kern, offers a low tempo solo setting, while “Saint Thomas”, by Sonny Rollins, is a fuller moment of percussive sounds amid the swift guitar acrobatics.

The last 2 tracks, “How Deep Is The Ocean” and “In A Sentimental Mood”, don’t disappoint either. The former is a frisky duet of timeless energy, and the latter has Hall emitting intimacy and grace via the precise and moody delivery.

Stewart, who was the first true world renowned jazz musician from Ireland, and Hall, who was a leader of 20th century modern jazz guitar, bring their inimitable talents to this only known recording of them performing together that’s a must for fans of guitar jazz.

Travels well with: Sharon Isbin- Live In Aspen; Cally Banham- Tango To The Core

Jovin Webb

Drifter

Blind Pig, 2024

9/10

Listen to Drifter

The debut from the American Idol star Jovin Webb, the 12 songs here balance rowdy moments with plenty of gripping balladry, too.

“Bottom Of A Bottle” gets the listen off to a soulful, bluesy start, where Jovin’s powerful pipes are met with thick drums, and “Save Me” follows with spirited guitar lines amid a calmer mood of grit and beauty.

Moving into the middle, the wild and piano driven rocker “Wig On Wrong” unfolds with a contagious energy, while “Blues For A Reason” benefits much from the sturdy rhythm section that suits Webb’s soaring pipes via the emotive performance.

Close to the end, “It’s The Hawk” uses lively keys and animated guitars and drums that complement the anthemic quality, and “Born Under A Bad Sign” exits with some gospel nods buried into the timeless blues rock.

Webb excels in both slow burning climates as well as Southern rock landscapes, and this debut will certainly gain him plenty of new fans thanks to his authentic and memorable artistry.

Travels well with: Robert Jon & The Wreck- Red Moon Rising; Joanne Shaw Taylor- Heavy Soul

Eugene Ruffolo

Ten Good Sermons

Cane Morte, 2024

8/10

Listen to Ten Good Sermons

The New York artist Eugene Ruffolo steps away from his songs about love and loss for these sermon-ish tracks that were fleshed out in pre-pandemic times and surround ideas like forgiveness, friendship and existential truth.

“A World Minus One” starts the listen with a ballad appeal and warm groove, where Ruffolo’s friendly voice guides the soft mood, and “Late Bloomer” follows with jazz nods, as gentle keys and fluid guitar are met with playful keys.

“Precious Stone” occupies the middle spot and is a live track that tugs on the heartstrings with its poetic delivery, while “All Good Things”, which has Ruffolo playing all instruments, focuses on acoustic guitar amid the elegant singing.

Further yet, “Do You Love Well Enough?” features Carrie Grossman’s gorgeous pipes for the breezy and stirring album highlight, and “Closer To You” exits with a delicate ambience via the cello, guitar and spiritual backdrop.

Ruffolo has an impressive resume that includes hundreds of radio and TV spots, and this 8th album offers a personal and enlightening listening experience that won’t soon be forgotten.

Travels well with: Rebecca Frazier- Boarding Windows In Paradise; Hana Zara- Bloom Where You Fall

Alvorada

Faz Tempo

ARC, 2024

8/10

Listen to Faz Tempo

The London based ensemble Alvorada bring us an album of Brazilian choro sounds via 10 tracks that are technical, passionate and creative.

“Borbulhando” starts the listen with Rachel Hayter’s dreamy flute alongside Luiz Morais’meticulous seven string guitar for the rich delivery, and “Nem me fales de saudade” follows with Jeremy Shaverin’s lively cavaquinho and percussion adding much culture to the flowing melodies.

In the middle, Roee Ben Sira’s warm piano brings intrigue to the mesmerizing “Chez Fred”, while “Sampa” showcases the agile flute and Andrew Woolf’s soothing clarinet via strong attention to detail.

Close to the end, “Vinda Boa” welcomes Vitor Gonçalves’ well timed accordion for the album’s best, and “Gina” exits with detailed guitar playing and cautious winds via the heartfelt finish.

An excellent sophomore outing, Alvorada blend samba, chamber and choro moments with complicated but easily accessible sounds that resonate globally.

Travels well with: ZRI- Café Danube; Pól Brennan- The Irish Revolution

Lisa Morales

Sonora

Luna, 2024

8/10

Listen to Sonora

The tri-lingual artist Lisa Morales creates worldly sounds with this 4th album, where ballads, boleros, rancheras and corridos unfold with much grace.

The rhythmic and cultured “Flores (en un jardín)” opens the listen with Morales’ expressive pipes guiding the rich delivery, and “En El Limbo” isn’t too far away with its intimate acoustic guitar and poetic singing that comes with a dreamy spirit.

“Imposter” lands at the halfway point and benefits from Kelsey Wilson’s distinct vocals for the heartfelt duet that examines self-identity in a relationship, while “Hermanitas In The Rain” is a rich album highlight with more emphasis on drums on melodies.

Further still, “La Paz” welcomes AJ Haynes (Seratones) for the stirring and soothing soul delivery of timeless beauty, and “Hermana” exits with Morales’ captivating voice front and center for the gentle finish.

You might be reminded of Lucinda Williams, Paulette Carlson or Linda Ronstadt when enjoying these songs that are a tribute to Morales’ sister, who passed away in 2021, and it’s also a testament to the power and strength of authentic Mexican music.

Travels well with: Amy Speace- Tucson; Alice Howe- Circumstance

Rachel Lee Priday/David Kaplan

Fluid Dynamics

Orchid, 2024

9/10

Listen to Fluid Dynamics

The violinist Rachel Lee Priday and pianist David Kaplan come together for these world premieres of commissioned works that take inspiration from the oceanographer Georgy Manucharyan.

Gabriella Smith’s “Entangled On A Rotating Planet” starts the listen with the quivering strings making for much ambience, and “Waterworks”, by Paul Wiancko, follows with a distinct mood of intricate strings that swell with emotion and energy.

Further along, Timo Andres’ “Three Suns” is an intimate moment of beauty that builds into a dizzying execution of acrobatic violin, while “ko’u inoa” is an animated bout of string manipulation via the Leilehua Lanzilotti selection.

The final piece is where Kaplan enters. Christopher Cerrone’s “Sonata For Violin And Piano” blurs the atypical strings with Kaplan’s rich keys that can hit low registers, too.

A technical effort that meshes classical sounds with visual poetry, Priday’s performance is as exceptional as we’re used to from the artist, and Kaplan’s contributions only add more allure.

Travels well with: Karen Slack/Michelle Cann- Beyond The Years; Christopher Cerrone- Beaufort Scales

Christian Sands

Embracing Dawn

Mack Avenue, 2024

9/10

Listen to Embracing Dawn

The Grammy nominated pianist Christian Sands brings many influences into his version of jazz, and here we're treated to prog rock, gospel and Western classical nods.

Sands’ mesmerizing piano opens the listen, where “Good Morning Heartache” makes for a moody climate that benefits from Ryan Sands’ well timed drums, and “Divergent Journeys” follows with a more dense delivery, as Marvin Sewell’s warm guitar and Warren Wolf’s animated vibraphone add much richness.

Landing in the middle, “Thought Bubbles I (Can We Talk?)” is an intimate moment of just Sands’ poetic keys initially, before Yasushi Nakamura’s playful upright bass enters, while “Serenade Of An Angel” places Eli Weinberger on cello and Andrew Joslyn on viola for the rich and dreamy album highlight.

Arriving late in the record, “Braises de Requiem I (The Embers Requeim, Mov. I)” lacks a rhythm section but employs Ross Gilliland’s contrabass via the distinct ambience of grace, and “Embracing Dawn” exits with Grégoire Maret’s handling harmonica and contributing much to the gentle beauty.

A highly technical version of jazz that sorts through heartbreak and healing, the post-bop, sublime strings and meticulous execution is greatly appreciated.

Travels well with: Emmet Cohen- Vibe Provider; Ben Wendel- All One

Ashtyn Barbaree

Sent Through The Ceiling

Self-Released, 2024

9/10

Listen to Sent Through The Ceiling

The multi-instrumentalist and Americana artist Ashtyn Barbaree brings her unique voice and emotive presence to these 10 tracks that welcome plenty of esteemed help.

The warm spirit of “Along For The Ride” starts the listen wtih Barbaree’s cozy voice alongside Ty Dunn’s glowing pedal steel and Jacob Campbell’s fluid acoustic guitar, and “Copenhagen” follows with Matt Nelson’s mature piano that suits the poetic singing.

Landing at the halfway point, “The Doorbell Rang” benefits much from Garrett Jones’ well timed upright bass amid Barbaree’s gorgeous pipes, while “Reckless Nights” is populated by Derek Weiand’s thumping drums and Dunn’s classical guitar via much emotion.

Close to the end, “2am Shadow”, the album’s best, welcomes Nick Caffrey on bass and Weiand handling percussion for the rich and authentic Americana, and “What We’ve Become” places Adams Collins on banjo and Lacy Hampton on backing vocals, as wordplay about growing up surrounds the thoughtful and relatable finish.

A body of work that’s not lacking any melody, sincerity and timeless Americana flavor, Barbaree knows her way around a tune you won’t soon forget.

Travels well with: Laurie Lewis- Trees; Greg Copeland- Empire State

ZRI

Café Danube

Naxos, 2024

8/10

Listen to Café Danube

The U.K. quintet, ZRI, bring plenty of history with international orchestras, improvisation, and cross-cultural collaborations, as these 15 tracks flow with a global appeal.

“Rondo all Turca” starts the listen with swift strings thanks to Max Baillie’s detailed violin in the flowing climate, and it isn’t long until “Gnossienne no. 1” trims the pace back with sublime beauty thanks to soft and mysterious delivery.

Further along, “Liebesleid” tugs on the heartstrings via the intimate mood that benefits much from Matthew Sharp’s lovely cello, while “Pizzicato Polka” is an upbeat album highlight that recruits Iris Pissaride’s agile santouri.

Landing closer to the end, the busy “Kleftikos Sirto” comes with a symphonic flavor of rich string interaction, and “Impromptu in Gb Major, op. 90/3” exits with Jon Banks’ hazy accordion adding much to the layers of prettiness.

An effort that highlights the music of the river Danube, ZRI explore sound worlds, people, flows and ebbs of rivers and humans, where they treat us to travelling music and musicians from the Black Forest to the Black Sea.

Travels well with: Pól Brennan- The Irish Revolution; Tri Nguyen- Duos-Alone

Anne Burnell & Mark Burnell

This Could Be The Start Of Something Big

Spectrum, 2024

8/10

Listen to This Could Be The Start Of Something Big

Veterans of the Chicago jazz scene, Anne Burnell brings her flowing voice and Mark Burnell lends his inimitable keys and singing to these 13 interpretations and originals that are quite memorable.

The frisky and upbeat title track starts the listen with Anne and Mark trading off vocals amid Jim Widlowski’s lively drumming, and “I Could Have Danced All Night” follows with a calm mood, where Anne’s pretty pipes are met with Mark’s mature keys.

Moving into the middle, “Give Me One More Song” showcases Fareed Haque’s spirited guitar amid Anne’s soulful delivery, while “Fiets Don’t Fail Me Now” highlights Mark’s expressive pipes and makes great use of Joshua Ramos’ skilled bass.

Deeper still, the mesmerizing “Two” uses hypnotic keys and harmonizing vocals for the dreamy album highlight, and “Let’s Eat Home” exits with playful scatting, meticulous guitar and animated keys populating the rich finish.

A diverse effort that embraces Afro Cuban nods, funk and blues, the Burnell’s put a fresh coat of paint on some classics and inject some timeless songs of their own, too.

Travels well with: Monika Herzig’s Sheroes- All In Good Time; Rose Mallett- Dreams Realized

Devarrow

Heart Shaped Rock

Paper Bag, 2024

9/10

Listen to Heart Shaped Rock

The Canadian rocker Devarrow returns with his 4th album, where plenty of varied indie-rock surrounds the 13 well crafted tracks.

The bouncy and fun mood of “Lightning Bolt” starts with whistling and crisp drumming in its folk-rock demeanor, and “Likewise” follows with soaring vocals and warm acoustic guitar that’s melodic and breezy.

Deeper into the listen, the harmonic and pop tinted “Together Again” comes with a charming playfulness, while “Half Of You” benefits from mature keys and emotive singing that tugs on the heartstrings and is the album’s best.

Residing closer to the end, “All The Little Things” showcases Devarrow’s falsetto in a pretty yet firm delivery, and “Come Again” exits with a cozy, dreamy ambience that uses that soothing whistling again.

A really memorable record that might remind you of Fleet Foxes or Peter, Bjorn and John, Devarrow (real name Graham Ereaux) describes his music as ‘Carpenter-surf-folk-pop’, and it could easily soundtrack a day at the beach, just as it could a camping weekend.

Travels well with: Mariam The Believer- Breathing Techniques; KOYO- Onism

Eric Person

Rhythm Edge

Distinction, 2024

9/10

Listen to Rhythm Edge

The sax player Eric Person is surrounded by some incredible company for these 14 jazz fueled tracks that welcome avant-garde and fusion ideas.

The busy and dynamic “Tyner Town” starts the listen with Peter O’Brien’s animated drums and Person’s bright sax guiding the timeless jazz, and “The Multitudes” follows with a calmer mood, where Jarod Kashkin’s mature keys are met with Daniel Sadownick’s skilled congas.

Further along, the aptly titled “Beauty” comes with an intimate spirit via the eloquent sax and Cary DeNigris’ well timed guitar, while “It’s Time Again” bops and shakes playfully thanks to Ingrid Jensen’s rich trumpet bouts.

Landing closer to the end, “Pendulum Swing” allows for Adam Armstrong’s meticulous bass lines to shine, and “Pretty Strange Love” exits with a colorful and intricate meshing of unpredictable sax, a frisky rhythm section and well timed trombone courtesy of Robin Eubanks.

Originally released in 2007, the album is remixed and remastered and sounds better than ever, which is no easy feat considering its excellent starting point.

Travels well with: Matt Panayides Trio- With Eyes Closed; David Bailis- Tree Of Life

Benjamin Boone

Confluence: The Ireland Sessions

Origin, 2024

9/10

Listen to Confluence: The Ireland Sessions

The alto-sax extraordinaire Benjamin Boone is in the company of some fine musicians for these colorful and dynamic 9 tracks.

“On The Banks Of The Shannon” starts the listen with Dan Bodwell’s playful bass plucking before Rodridgo Dalla’s dreamy percussion enters alongside Boone’s elegant sax, and the title track follows with a lively spirit that carries an infectious energy thanks to James Miley’s swift keys and Rory Murphy’s electric bass.

Into the middle is where “Monkette” resides, and it emits a dynamic interaction via the bright sax and John Daly’s animated drumming, while “In The Twilight” features JaYne’s soulful pipes that help illuminate the intimate mood that builds into a dizzying jazz climate.

Residing near the end, “Stern Warning” benefits much from Joe O’Callaghan’s meticulous guitar amid the flowing sax bouts, and “She Moved Through The Fair” exits with a soft demeanor of elegance and grace that showcases JaYne’s gorgeous pipes.

A collaborative affair that excels in post bop areas just as it does gentle, moving song craft, Boone and his friends have no problem keeping our attention from beginning to end.

Travels well with: Michael Dease- Found In Space: The Music Of Gregg Hill; Russell Haight- Go Forth

Gena Britt

Chronicle: Friends And Music

Pinecastle, 2019

8/10

Listen to Chronicle

Though Gena Britt cut her teeth as a member of Daughters Of Bluegrass, she might be best known as a current player in Sister Sadie, who have quickly become the supergroup that everyone in the bluegrass scene is admiring.

On this, her sophomore solo album, which arrives over a decade after her last one, Britt is in great company with plenty of contributors, as she handles banjo duties on all tracks and vocals on about half.

“Over And Over” gets the album off to a strong start with quick banjo work and soaring, pretty vocals from Britt, and “You Don’t Get Over That” follows with a softer, gorgeous display of restrained skill.

Further along, “Get Up In Jesus’ Name” is a gospel influenced tune with plenty of backing vocals, while “On And On” illustrates adventurous interplay between the organic instruments with flowing vocal harmonies.

The back half offers the timeless “Traveling Poor Boy”, where Marty Raybon lends his fluid pipes, and the cautious atmosphere of “Untold Stories”, where many voices illuminate this bluegrass highlight. “Looking Forward To The Good Life” ends the listen calm and agile, where Robert Hale harmonizes with Britt as aching mandolin helps punctuate the emotive landscape.

There’s a very good reason why Sister Sadie were Grammy Nominated; the songwriting and execution of that ensemble is nothing short of extraordinary, and Britt brings that talent to this highly accomplished and extremely timeless affair.

Travels well with: Sister Sadie- II; Dale Ann Bradley- The Hard Way