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2011-10-17 Adds To The Jazz 88 Music Library

Blog Name:Jazz 88.3 Library Blog - New This Week

Blog Author:

Posted on:October 16, 2011

Burrell, Carter, DeFrancesco...and that's only the first 3 of the great discs being added this week to the Jazz 88 Music Library! I will be debuting as many as I can get to in 2 hours during The New Jazz Thing, Monday October 17, 2011 6-8 PM PT!

KENNY BURRELL – “TENDERLY” (Live solo recording by one of the greats).

I'm amazed that Kenny doesn't have some sort of bigger web presence. Or any press / information on this release out.
JazzDepot (HighNote Records): Beginning with his recording debut with Dizzy Gillespie on "Tin Tin Deo" and "Birk's Works" guitar master Kenny Burrell has recorded well over 100 records as a leader and countless more as a sideman with the likes of Oscar Peterson, John Coltrane, Frank Foster, Kenny Clarke and others. Recorded live in concert, "Tenderly" features Kenny alone on stage in a solo guitar recital with an array of instruments from which he selects to suit his concept of the music at hand. Whether he is swinging on a blues, caressing a ballad out of his six strings or stringing together garlands of songs into leisurely medleys, Kenny Burrell remains one of the most popular and respected guitarists in the history of jazz.

JAMES CARTER ORGAN TRIO – “AT THE CROSSROADS” (Saxophonist, in straight-ahead,
somewhat edgy groove, with some vocal tracks).

AllAboutJazz.com (Brent Black): these two mighty forces, Carter leaves the labeling of this release to the listener. After the groundbreaking fusion of European classical with jazz improvisation and Afro-Caribbean rhythms on Caribbean Rhapsody (EmArcy, 2011), Carter continues to defy standard categorization while focusing on a more roots-oriented release that may well be a look at his hybrid musical soul.

At The Crossroads finds Carter organic and raw yet razor sharp, with a defined focus and passion that not only makes it a noteworthy release, it may well raise the bar for jazz overall.

JOEY DeFRANCESCO (FB, @JoeyJazzOrgan) – “40” (Straight-ahead organ trio, mostly originals).

KEN FOWSER / BEHN GILLECE – “DUOTONE” (Typically good, straight-ahead session of
originals from the saxophonist/vibes leaders).

SaxShed: Ken Fowser has entered a world of jazz riddled with well-trained, technically proficient and creative tenor saxophonists. Somehow his sweet sound is his own, never sounding like anyone but himself.  He and Behn Gillece have surrounded themselves with a cohesive ensemble of like-minded musicians who can make their case within only a few, well constructed choruses.

DANNY FOX TRIO (FB)– “THE ONE CONSTANT” (Piano trio, with a lot of edgy moments.
Good, but not suitable for mornings).

JazzWrap (Vern)
The One Constant is an excellent debut from an American trio with bold, expressive ideas. The Danny Fox Trio might be one of those under-the-radar groups that you better get to know quickly because we may be talking about them for a long time to come.

MARK HARRISON QUINTET (FB,  – “JUST ADD WATER” (Keyboardist, leading a contemporary
session of originals).

Music Life: Mark’s goals for the Quintet and for their latest CD are very simple. “I want to chart our own territory in the jazz world, by creating substantive and interesting music that is accessible to the ear of the listener”, says Mark, “I’m thrilled when people come to our shows who are not diehard jazz fans, and yet they still feel our grooves and hum our tunes when they leave”.

GRACE KELLY (FB, @GraceKellyJazz)– “GRACE” (Saxophonist, doing Jazz versions of religious tunes).


MARY LOUISE KNUTSON – “IN THE BUBBLE” (Pianist, leading a trio, in straight-ahead
standards and originals).

Jazz Police (Andrea Canter): It all flows so easily that it is hard to imagine the sweat and frustration that challenged Mary Louise as she wrote the music for this project. “During the months I spent composing and arranging, there were times where my creative well seemed bone dry,” she admits. “I couldn’t come up with any satisfying ideas for tunes or even ideas that would develop or complete tunes. That was very frustrating and frankly, a bit depressing.  I just had to show up everyday and try to compose something and trust that eventually the inspiration would be there...and luckily it was.”

ALAN LEATHERMAN (FB, @Alan_Leatherman)– “DETOUR AHEAD” (Male vocalist, doing Jazz tunes and the Great
American Songbook).


CURTIS MacDONALD – “COMMUNITY IMMUNITY” (Saxophonist, doing edgy originals).

AllAboutJazz.com (Dan Bilawsky): While Macdonald graciously shares space with his band mates and guests, it's his own unique voice that really defines his work. His saxophone can be a beacon of clarity ("Community Immunity") or a bird of prey ("Second Guessing"), depending on his mood, but his ideas are always intriguing. With Community Immunity, Curtis Macdonald establishes himself as one who stands apart from the rest but, with a such a unique musical statement, he just might be embraced by the jazz community at large...if such a thing exists.

DAVID MURRAY CUBAN ENSEMBLE – “NAT KING COLE EN ESPANOL” (Latin big band
grooves to Nat’s tunes, with 4 vocal tracks).

ANTHONY E. NELSON, JR. (FB)– “TENOR FOR TWO” (Saxophonist, leading a quartet, with a
straight-ahead mix of standards and originals).

CDBaby: Nelson’s sound is distinctive, developed, pure and soulful. At his age of thirty-three this is a real achievement. Though he plays other saxophones, when asked, why he chose to play tenor only he explained, “tenor saxophone is my main instrument, the one I feel the most comfortable with.”

SEAN NOWELL (@NowellSounds)– “STOCKHOLM SWINGIN’” (Saxophonist, leading a quintet, doing a mix of
jazz tunes and originals).

JazzWrap: With Stockholm Swingin' you get the feeling if you've been listening to Sean Nowell for awhile and that he really let the wheels off the wagon and just went for it this time. This is a live session that works on many levels. It's perfect for many traditionalists and a nice opening for new fans. This is the sound of modern standard jazz. It is good for all. Enjoy...

PILC-MOUTIN-HOENIG – “THREEDOM” (Edgy piano trio, doing a mix of standards and
improvisations).

@CriticalJazz: This is not jazz that you embrace. This is jazz that embraces you. If you listen.

JEN SHYU (FB) & MARK DRESSER – “SYNASTRY” (Progressive vocal/bass duo recording).

PopMatters (John Garratt): As for the remainder of the album, it’s not really fair to say these two are disconnected. In fact, it’s hard to make that call at all since these lighter-than-air vignettes don’t convey any special telepathy. And it doesn’t help that Jen Shyu is constructing her songs while her head is in academic la-la land. So many of her texts come from obscure origins, ones that destroy any chance you would have for diving into and surrendering unto the music.
AllAboutJAzz.com (Tim Niland)the real focus of the music is the blending of their particular voices, weaving and blending the hues and colors of sound and occasionally dancing around each other in a hypnotic and unique arrangement that is uniquely improvisatory but calling forth other music from around the world and across time. While this album can be quite a challenging listen, the two musicians represented here are truly trying to break new ground, and ask people to re-think the nature of jazz and improvised music in general. 

JEREMY UDDEN’S PLAINVILLE – “IF THE PAST SEEMS SO BRIGHT” (Very eclectic and
edgy mix of sounds from this saxophonist).

AllAboutJazz.com (Troy Collins): Overblown jazz fusion clichés are largely a thing of the past among younger performers like Udden, who have come of age exposed to a diverse array of genres and aesthetic approaches; Plainville is a prime example of how once seemingly disparate styles can inspire subtly tasteful new hybrids. If the Past Seems So Bright enhances sophisticated jazz structures with the emotional candor of contemporary roots music, expanding the possibilities of both traditions in the process.

WELLSTONE CONSPIRACY – “HUMBLE ORIGINS” (Great quartet recording, with all band
originals except for one Beatles’ tune).

Origin Records: Now in their 6th year of performing together, the collective of saxophonist Brent Jensen, pianist Bill Anschell, bassist Jeff Johnson, and drummer John Bishop continue to display their richly empathetic approach to melody and rhythm as they explore a new set of originals on their third recording together. From Jensen's swinging tribute to mentor, Lee Konitz, "All of Lee," to Bill Anschell's completely original take of the Beatle's "Fixing a Hole," the group allows the music to flow, unhurried and displaying a patient rapport that reveals moments worthy of many repeated listens.

YOTAM – “BRASIL” (Guitarist, leading a variety of band configurations, doing great Jazz
versions of the Great Brazilian Songbook).

TNJT Session Notes for Monday October 10 2011

Blog Name:The New Jazz Thing with Vince Outlaw

Blog Author:

Posted on:October 10, 2011

2011-10-10 Adds To The Jazz 88 Music Library

Blog Name:Jazz 88.3 Library Blog - New This Week

Blog Author:

Posted on:October 6, 2011

Here's what we are adding to the Jazz 88 Music Library and debuting on The New Jazz Thing, Monday, October 17, 2011...

DEE BELL (FB)– “SAGACIOUS GRACE” (Female vocalist, doing a straight-ahead mix of standards
and jazz tunes, backed by an all-star band).


FREDDY COLE – “TALK TO ME” (Male vocalist, doing a straight-ahead mix of obscure and
new standards).

Critical Jazz: Instead of taking a victory lap of exclusive club and festival dates or perhaps cooling his heels in Las Vegas, Freddy Cole releases a follow up to the Grammy nominated "Freddy Cole Sings Mr. B" that may just bring home the Grammy some argue he should have received last year. Sophisticated in style and as comfortable as a favorite pair of jeans, Freddy Cole continues to please!

MAC GOLLEHON – “ODDYSSEY OF NOSTALGIA” (Trumpet-led sessions, doing some
vintage tunes and originals, with some vocals by Amina Claudine Myers).


TIM HAGANS (FB )– “THE MOON IS WAITING” (Trumpeter, leading a progressive session. 2011 Grammy Nomination for Best Instrumental Composition "Box of Cannoli" on The Avatar Sessions).

AllABoutJazz.com (Dan Bilawsky): Hagans has proven to be a master compositional architect in more formal settings, but his ability to let loose with this small group is the key to its success. The Moon Is Waiting is a marvel of elastic expressions from one of the most shrewd and intelligent minds in jazz today.

LENORA ZENZALAI HELM (FB)– “I LOVE MYSELF WHEN I’M LAUGHING…” (Female
vocalist, doing a mix of original and jazz tunes, on the edgy side).

AllAboutJazz.com: the award-winning, Chicago-born vocalist, composer, lyricist, arranger, educator and former U.S. Jazz Ambassador Lenora Zenzalai Helm brilliantly illuminates the jazz world with this soulful and spectacular 13-track CD. It features music and lyrics inspired by two Chicago storytellers, and by writers Zora Neale Hurston, Neale Donald Walsch and Alice Walker, Robert Kennedy, biographers Gene Santoro and Ross Russell, poets Rudyard Kipling and Sam White, and the music and lyrics of Duke Ellington, John Coltrane, Charles Mingus, Thelonious Monk, Jon Hendricks and Joni Mitchell.

JASON KAO HWANG – “CROSSROADS UNSEEN” (Extremely progressive collection of
originals).

AllAboutJazz.com (Karl Ackerman): The notion that the next great force in new jazz could be a violinist may seem a bit incongruous, but Crossroads Unseen is fresh, exciting and creative, and one of the best recordings of the year.

MIKE LeDONNE – “KEEP THE FAITH” (Straight-ahead organ grooves, with Eric Alexander
playing sax).

Music and More (Tim Niland): The whole album is played quite well and will be a treat for fans of organ based jazz. There are excellent solos throughout the music, but it is the groups compatibility and their ability to work together toward and ego-less common ground that is most noticeable.

MIKE LONGO TRIO + 2 – “TO MY SURPRISE” (Mostly quintet, with some trio tracks, playing
a mix of originals, standards and jazz tunes).

FAME Review: a CD loaded up with nothing but first-rung talent: Bob Cranshaw on bass, Lewis Nash on drums, Jimmy Owens on trumpet and flugelhorn, and Lance Bryant on tenor sax. That's it. No guest sit-ins other than that '+2'. No sweetening. Just a quinteted-up trio playing its extremely sophisticated brains out.

RENE MARIE (FB, @manaymanee)– “BLACK LACE FREUDIAN SLIP” (Female vocalist, doing straight-ahead
originals).


Blogcritics.org (David Bowling): Rene Marie may not be a well-known name, but she has quietly built a catalogue of music that can match most jazz singers active today. If you are in the mood for some interesting and well sung jazz, then Black Lace Freudian Slip is an album for you.

NEW TRICKS (FB, @NewTricksJazz)– “ALTERNATE SIDE” (Pianoless quartet, doing progressive originals).

AllAboutJazz.com (Greg Simmons):

Here's something you don't read in album liner notes every day: "We recorded in Shawn's apartment...using only blankets wrapped around music stands for audio separation." New Tricks has seemingly recorded Alternate Side... in some no-frills circumstances, but there's truth in the old saying that adversity sometimes brings out the best in people. This piano-less collective, featuring a trumpet and tenor sax front line, plays an energetic brawl of traded solos, hard bop melodies, and freely constructed harmonization. Likely because of the way it was recorded, Alternate Side... has a live-in-studio feel to it—four guys just playing in a room—and they sound like they're really enjoying the session. The result is a truly creative record that trades in spontaneity rather than polish.

BILL O’CONNELL – “TRIPLE PLAY PLUS THREE” (Pianist, backed by all-star Latin
musicians, doing mostly originals).

ZohoMusic

JASON ROBINSON AND ANTHONY DAVIS – “CERULEAN LANDSCAPE” (Progressive
collection of originals).

HOLLI ROSS – “YOU’LL SEE” (Female vocalist, backed by an all-star band, doing standards
and 2 tunes she co-wrote with Claudio Roditi).

THE SPOKES – “NOT SO FAST” (Horn trio, playing an eclectic, progressive mix of originals).

TUNNEL SIX – “LAKE SUPERIOR” (Sextet, doing an edgy mix of band originals).

UMOJA – “DANCE OF THE KALAHARI” (Straight-ahead collection of originals, with Afro-
Cuban subtext).

TNJT Session Notes For Monday October 3 2011

Blog Name:The New Jazz Thing with Vince Outlaw

Blog Author:

Posted on:October 1, 2011

Taking notes for TNJT on Monday, October 3, 2011....

Here are the 2011-10-03 Adds To The Jazz 88 Music Library which we will be playing as much as we can from:
"...familar names (Benson, Scofield, McBride),  upcoming interviews/shows (Stanley Jordon on TNJT 10/10, at Anthology 10/14), old friends (Ali Ryerson played Jazz Live San Diego September 2006), big band (!), guitar, vocal (Milman!), and more!"

I will be chatting with Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey pianist Brian Haas about their new Race Riot Suite disc (added @Jazz88 8/29/11) and upcoming 10/5/11 UCSD Loft gig.(with ultra cool special guests Peter Apfelbaum, Mark Southerland, UCSD Professor David Borgo, Yvette Jackson, and Andy Geib (Wise Monkey Orchestraj....this is going to be one wild adventurous concert!!!) Cool!


Interview Online NOW! http://jazz88.org/programs/The_New_Jazz_Thing/

Next Week (10/10/11) - Double whammy Jazz Innovator Interviews with Gary Burton (plays Neurosciences 10/12) and Stanley Jordan (plays Anthology SD 10/14)!

Last Week (9/26/11) - Interview with Sammy Figueroa about his New "Urban Nature" available to listen to online!

2011-10-03 Adds To The Jazz 88 Music Library

Blog Name:Jazz 88.3 Library Blog - New This Week

Blog Author:

Posted on:October 1, 2011

The New discs being added to the Jazz 88 Library this week include familar names (Benson, Scofield, McBride),  upcoming interviews/shows (Stanley Jordon on TNJT 10/10, at Anthology 10/14), old friends (Ali Ryerson played Jazz Live San Diego September 2006), big band (!), guitar, vocal (Milman!), and more! I'll be debuting much of this on The New Jazz Thing with Vince Outlaw, Monday October 3, 2011 6-8 PM PT...Listen Now!

GEORGE BENSON (FB, @GBGuitar) – “GUITAR MAN” (Mix of contemporary and straight-ahead tunes,
with some vocals. A mix of old and new standards).

Guitar International (Vince Lewis): George Benson is a true chameleon, but mostly one of the finest jazz guitarists of all time. His masterful interpretation of pop tunes and jazz standards has long been a source of inspiration to aspiring musicians. He has been active for over five decades and has over 30 recordings as leader, and to top it off, he’s been awarded ten Grammy awards. His ability to cross over into the “commercial” arena while still maintaining a quality improvisational approach is matched only by the late Wes Montgomery. Benson’s moving vocal stylings are developed from his terrific sense of instrumental phrasing, and they are equally impressive. This recording is a “must have” for any George Benson fan. It is also a terrific introduction for those listeners who may have grown up just a little later than some of us. It is an opportunity to hear a fine musician and vocalist do what he does best…a variety of crowd pleasing but substantive material.

MAUREEN CHOI (FB,@MaureenChoi) – “QUARTET” (Violinist, leading a quartet, doing a mix of straight-
ahead originals and standards).

JazzCorner.com (Robert Sutton): It's like a siren's call, a lush, hypnotic melody that reels in the senses and then stimulates them. The sound of Maureen Choi's violin has that kind of effect. On the Maureen Choi Quartet's self-titled latest album, the worlds of classical and jazz unite in a harmonious marriage, and her gorgeously expressive violin is the bridge that connects them.

CECILIA COLEMAN BIG BAND – “OH BOY!” (All original big band swingers).
AllAboutJazz.com (Edward Blanco)Cecilia Coleman never set out to become a big band leader, stating that it was "never a dream of mine to have a big band," but the Cecilia Coleman Big Band is her new reality—and Oh Boy!, what a swinging affair, this very first recording effort turns out to be. This is classic big band music infused with a bolt of raw energy and mounds of excitement.
STANLEY JORDAN
(FB) – “FRIENDS” (Virtuoso guitarist, doing a mix of contemporary
tunes and straight-ahead standards).

AllAboutJazz.com (Larry Taylor): His virtuosity and improvisational prowess are a given, and on Friends, he also shows his skill on piano on two numbers. Primarily, he brings in old pals from various backgrounds and delivers terrific arrangements, ranging across the jazz spectrum, mixing in originals with swing, post bop, samba, blues, pop and a couple from Bartók and Chopin. Jordan makes roughly two appearances with each main guest, with all the pairings in different styles; all are great. In a press release, Jordan says that this collection truly speaks to his belief that ..."when you integrate styles, you combine them into something new while still remaining true to the original sources." His best argument is this recording.
KEVIN KIZER QUARTET – “ASPECTS” (Saxophonist, leading a quintet with violin
and guitar, doing and edgy collection of originals).


LISA MAXWELL (FB)– “HAPPY” (Female vocalist, doing the Great American Songbook).

Jazz Lives: Lisa has all the virtues any singer could ask for. Her voice is appealing; her rhythm glides; her phrasing is all her own. She knows that each song is its own little playlet. Without dramatizing, she lets the song itself take center stage.

CHRISTIAN McBRIDE (FB, @McBridesWorld) BIG BAND – “GOOD FEELING” (Swinging, straight-ahead
big band, with 3 vocals by Melissa Walker).

AllAboutJazz.com (Something Else!): there is the sense that this record has been percolating for some time and, like most worthwhile things that are given that chance, The Good Feeling is far better for it.


SOPHIE MILMAN (FB, @SophieMilman)– “IN THE MOONLIGHT” (Female vocalist, doing a nice mix of
standards).

Exystence: Milman covers the full range of styles without ever leaving the romantic jazz oeuvre.Throughout In the Moonlight, Milman’s voice is it‘s great asset, giving the songs a light sexy touch. She has a voice I can listen to all day, but that lets the songs shine. And while it’s nothing you haven’t heard before, it’s one of the better examples of the vocal style.


CAROL MORGAN QUARTET – “BLUE GLASS MUSIC” (Pianoless quartet, doing a
mix of standards and originals).

As she was en route to the studio on that beautiful spring day, the world took on a new look. The warm, sunny, vibrant colors were all shaded in a lovely and surprising way. She kept remarking about it, and one by one, the musicians all tried on the blue glasses. At some point, while listening to a playback, Carol remarked, “Blue Glass Music.” Just another example of why Carol Morgan is one of my heroes. That emotional availability, that “in the moment” mentality is exactly what makes her such a unique voice in jazz, and of course, exactly what we all should be striving for. It keeps me coming back again and again.

ALI RYERSON“CON BRIO!” (Flutist, leading a session of originals and standards).

Ali Hits Home With A New Flute...: Working with an old friend, Pete Levin -- keyboard player for the legendary Gil Evans Orchestra -- the two decided to make the CD a more integrated piece of music, rather than just a collection of standards. The musicians on the recording -- Ryerson, Levin, vibraphonist Mike Mainieri, guitarist Mike DeMicco, bassist Egan and drummer Danny Gottlieb -- are all great musicians, "I mean Danny Gottlieb and Mark Egan were Pat Metheny's original rhythm section,'' Ryerson said.

JOHN SCOFIELD – “A MOMENT’S PEACE” (Usually edgy guitarist, in a relatively
subdued session, featuring mostly standards).

AllAboutJazz.com (John Kelman): A Moment's Peace might be perceived by some, a least on the surface, as an album of little risk—without Scofield's usual fire and grease, set that might appear to coast when it ought to soar—but it may well be Scofield's biggest gamble. Those prepared to accept the album on face value, as an hour's respite from life's normal hustle and bustle—or, who are patient enough to dig deeper for its beyond-the-norm look at a handful of potentially worn-out standards, here reinvigorated; a quintet of perfectly dovetailing originals; and a couple of truly surprises song choices—will find plenty to love about A Moment's Peace—an album whose greatest charms are revealed not after one or two listens, but after ten or twenty.

MATT SLOCUM “AFTER THE STORM” (Drummer, leading a trio with pianist
Gerald Clayton, with a mix of standards and originals).


REUBEN WILSON TRIO – “REVISITED” (Organist, grooving standards and originals).

2011-09-26 Adds To The Jazz 88 Music Library

Blog Name:Jazz 88.3 Library Blog - New This Week

Blog Author:

Posted on:September 24, 2011

Here's the New adds to the Jazz 88 library to be debuted on The New Jazz Thing on Monday, September 26, 2011 between 6 and 8 PM PT.

SYLVIA BENNETT (@SylbiaBennett)– “SONRIE” (Female vocalist, singing the Great Latin Songbook in
Spanish).

AllAboutJazz.com (about 2010 English version?): Within the genre of gentle jazzy love songs, Bennett's treatment of this music delivers a musical experience sure to draw a well-deserved Smile.

CHICK COREA (@ChickCorea) / STEFANO BOLLANI (FB, YouTube) – “ORVIETO” (Pianists, performing live, doing
a mix of originals, standards and improvisations).

AllaboutJazz.com (John Kelman): Unlike most duo recordings, Bollani and Corea are not split into left and right channels; instead, the two instruments converge towards the center of the mix from lower register to upper, giving Orvieto an even greater "you are there" feeling—but "there" isn't in the audience, it's right up there with the pianists. Those familiar with either player will have no difficulty in identifying them here; for those who aren't, does it really matter? Instead, it makes Orvieto all the more appreciable for its remarkably empathy, telepathy and synchronicity—symmetry, even, at times—less a duo, and more the remarkable melding of musical minds for a most singular purpose.

CARLO DE ROSA’S CROSS-FADE – “BRAIN DANCE” (Bassist, leading a quartet,
doing progressive originals).

AllAboutJazz.com (Mark F. Turner, March, 2011): There are "musician-for-hire" gunslingers—professionals employed at a moment's notice to bring their skills to a gig or recording. But the mercenary analogy is only a small part of their repertoire, as many of these invaluable side musicians are leaders and composers just awaiting the opportunity to release their own material. Such is the case with Brain Dance, by bassist Carlo De Rosa, who has performed with The Chico O'Farrill Afro Cuban Jazz Orchestra, Yo-Yo Ma, Rudresh Mahanthappa, and many others.  Of the seven tracks, "Terrane / A Phrase" is the most revealing of De Rosa's abilities: a contemporary opus of expansive writing and improvisation, filled with extensive individual spots, aerial flight patterns, and harmony and dissonance. Its conclusion prompts the question of why it's taken De Rosa so long to record this music. More, please.

ESP (@ESPJazz, FB) – “REACH” (Not the San Diego band, doing all originals with a mix of straight-
ahead and contemporary).



TIM HORNER – “THE PLACES WE FEEL FREE” (Very nice straight-ahead session,
with a variety of band configurations, doing all originals).

Mark Sherman's Blog (the vibest on the date): Horner not only writes in an assortment of time feels, he plays each style with the up-most capability. He is one of our modern masters when it comes knowing what the music needs from the rhythm section. His contributions are played with passion and conviction! His time feels so good. It makes you want to play if you’re a musician. It makes you want to move if you’re a listener. He is a superb musician!

CLAY JENKINS QUARTET – “GOOD SIGNS” (Trumpeter, leading a quartet, doing
mostly straight-ahead originals).


DAVID LINX / RHODA SCOTT / ANDRE CECCARELLI – “ROCK MY BOAT” (Male
vocalist, with an unpretentious style, doing mostly straight-ahead originals).


TISH ONEY (@TishSings)– “SWEET YOUTH” (Female vocalist, with guitar accompaniment, doing
a mix of standards and originals).

TED ROSENTHAL TRIO – “OUT OF THIS WORLD” (Piano trio, doing all straight-
ahead standards).
AllAboutJazz.comOn Out Of This World (Playscape Recordings), the new collection featuring Rosenthal on piano, bassist Noriko Ueda and Quincy Davis on drums, 10 timeless classics from the golden era of American song craft are rendered in an impeccably lyrical, colorful manner that compels the listener to rethink them. Rosenthal and crew embrace the familiar tunes—reliable standards like “Embraceable You," “People Will Say We're In Love" and “Cry Me a River"—and, without ever losing sight of the melody at the heart, reimagine them from the ground up. Rosenthal thrives on re-creating these cultural cornerstones in his own image.

PONCHO SANCHEZ AND TERENCE BLANCHARD – “CHANO Y DIZZY!” (Two
modern day icons, paying tribute to the progenitors of Latin Jazz).
Latin Jazz NetworkWhile the album includes songs originally written and performed by the two legends, it also showcases compositions crafted by other writers that capture the flavor of traditional Latin jazz. “To me, Latin jazz is the world’s greatest music,” says Sanchez. “It has the melodic and harmonic sophistication of jazz and American standards, and the flavor and energy of Latin American music. What I’m most proud of is that this music – while it may sound exotic at times – is from America. It was born in New York City, when Chano Pozo met Dizzy Gillespie for the first time in the mid-1940s. They created something that didn’t exist before in this country. I’m very proud to take this music all over the world all the time.”



STARLICKER – “DOUBLE DEMON” (Rob Mazurek, leading a trio, doing all
progressive originals).

PopMatters (John Garratt)If you are able to keep up with Chicago trumpeter Rob Mazurek’s various side projects, you will know that his new band Starlicker is comprised of three members from his Exploding Star Orchestra. So if you take a 14-piece supernova group and reduce it to a trio, you have something that licks stars. Do with that what you will.

JOHN STOWELL & MICHAEL ZILBER – “SHOT THROUGH WITH BEAUTY”
(Guitarist and saxophonist, leading a quartet, with an edgy mix of originals and
standards).
The Urban FluxMaster musicians guitarist John Stowell and saxophonistMichael Zilber team with the Bay Area’s first-call rhythm team of bassist John Shifflet and drummer Jason Lewis, crafting a unique and dynamic recording of modern jazz that transcends the whole. Telepathic exchanges are in abundance as the group tackles a compelling mix of originals and compositions from Kenny Wheeler & John Scofield.

CORY WEEDS – “JUST LIKE THAT” (Typical straight-ahead grooves from this
saxophonist, doing mostly originals).

CDBabyCory Weeds is at it again this time featured on the alto saxophone with the stellar piano trio led by pianit Tilden Webb backing him up. It features award winning bassist Jodi Proznick and drummer Jesse Cahill. An eclectic mix of originals, a swinging standard and a reworking of a classic John Hiatt tune.

Plus...coming up 10/3....

George Benson - "Guitar Man"
Chico Hamilton - "Euphoric"
Reuben Wilson Trio - "Revisited"
Cecilia Coleman Big Band - "Oh Boy!"
Ali Ryerson - "Con Brio!"
Kevin Kizer Quartet - "Aspects"

Session Notes for Monday September 12 2011

Blog Name:The New Jazz Thing with Vince Outlaw

Blog Author:

Posted on:September 12, 2011

Tonight on the show...
  • Josh Nelson joins us by phone in Hour 1 to chat about his New "Discoveries", added last week. He also played with Allison Adams Tucker @Jazz88 OBMusicFest this past weekend and was wowing us all!
    • JOSH NELSON (FB)– “DISCOVERIES” (Pianist, leading a variety of configurations, doing
      all but one straight-ahead originals).

      Critical Jazz: Cerebral jazz? In an incredibly unique if not personal release, Nelson takes his appreciation for the writings of Jules Verne among others and transforms this literature into a conceptualized presentation of sonic imagery that lives and breathes on its own. An incredibly thoughtful organic pulse drives the forward motion of this sonic adventure with great care and artistic touch. Nelson's music is (for me) not Ipod friendly, no good jazz worth listening to is. "Discoveries" contains intricate and involved interplay between Nelson and his musical companions that is exciting, fresh and alive to the point where mere headphones could not possibly transfer the musical experience adequately.
  • Tierney Sutton chats with us in Hour 2 of The New about her latest "American Road", also added last week 9/5/11.
    • TIERNEY SUTTON – “AMERICAN ROAD” (Female vocalist, doing a mix of show
      tunes, gospel and Americana).

      Critical Jazz: Organic but deep rooted in tradition this exquisite release is perfect from start to finish."...take on her own unique, slightly eclectic but incredibly accessible spin on the Great American Songbook thus releasing an almost instant classic."
      Challenge Records: “We first started looking at an ‘America’-themed CD three or four years ago,” says Sutton, whose vocal style has been described as “soft as silk and smooth as fine bourbon” by the Chicago Sun Times. Circumstances led the group in a different direction at the time, the result being 2009’s Desire, which earned the group its third consecutive Grammy nomination for Best Vocal Jazz Album.

      But the concept that gave ultimately gave rise to American Road stayed with Sutton and the band—Christian Jacob (piano), Kevin Axt (acoustic and electric bass), Trey Henry (acoustic and electric bass) and Ray Brinker (drums and percussion)—until, having spent countless days and nights traveling America’s roads and playing in her towns and cities, they were able to finally bring it to fruition. All of the arrangements on American Road were conceived by the entire band, which, said The New York Times, has “refined the kind of rapport that could only be achieved over time…providing a continuous flow of support, strength and inspiration.”
  • Playing as much of the 2011-09-12 Adds to the Jazz 88 Music Library...digging seeing Bill Frisell doing John Lennon, Joan Stiles new one, San Diego vocalist Sharon DuBois, and more!
  • We'll also be following any news about San Diego's Joshua White who is one of 3 finalists for the Thelonious Monk Jazz Competition being performed, judged, and awarded TONIGHT in Washington DC. Go Joshua!!

2011-09-12 Adds To The Jazz 88 Music Library

Blog Name:Jazz 88.3 Library Blog - New This Week

Blog Author:

Posted on:September 8, 2011

Here are the tunes we are adding to the Jazz 88 New section and library AND I will be featuring on The New Jazz Thing with Vince Outlaw this Monday, September 12, 2011 between 6 and 8 PM PT (in addition to interviewing Josh Nelson and Tierney Sutton who we added last week).

RAHSAAN BARBER (FB, @rjbsax)– “EVERYDAY MAGIC” (Young saxophonist, leading a group of young musicians, doing all original material).

Blogcritics (The Dirty Lowdown): This is a great debut for the label and a more than fine sophomore effort from Rahsaan and Everyday Magic. It may not be elevator music, but it is going nowhere but up.

SHARON DuBOIS (FB)– “HERE I AM” (Local vocalist, backed by local musicians, doing all original tunes.  Lots of overdubs of her voice).

San Diego Reader (Robert Bush): In its strongest moments, Here I Am floats along with a jazz-funk groove reminiscent of the 70s Crusaders, or, on some tracks, the sophisticated feel of 80s era Steely Dan. It takes a tight band to pull that off.

ECHOES OF SWING – “MESSAGE FROM MARS” (New takes on early swing classics.  Neo-swing, if you will).

The Jazz Society of Pensacola (Norman Vickers): This group combines the styles of small-group combos of the ‘20s and ‘30s with modern techniques with wonderful toe-tapping result.  There is a mix of jazz standards with their own compositions.  I’m also a fan of classics which are “swung.”  Three examples of this style are “Butterfly Chase” based on a Chopin Etude, Fritz Kreisler’s “Liebesleid: and Shostakovich’s “Gavotte.”

"Message from Mars" wins

PRIX DE L'ACADÉMIE DU JAZZ in Paris

and is awarded the

GERMAN RECORD CRITICS' AWARD

BILL FRISELL (FB, @BillFrisell) – “ALL WE ARE SAYING…” (Edgy guitarist, paying tribute to John Lennon, with interesting and faithful takes, on familiar tunes).

AllAboutJazz.com (Music and More by Tim Niland): In guitarist Bill Frisell’s liner notes to his most recent LP, he writes about being contacted to perform a special concert of John Lennon compositions. He and the band enjoyed it so much that they continued to tour, playing mostly of the music heard here to an excellent response, and then entered to studio to record. Overall this album works pretty well and could serve as an excellent gateway or conduit to fans of pop music that are interested in exploring jazz. The band understands that Lennon’s music speaks for itself, and with a few modifications they allow it to do so quite beautifully



YARON GERSHOVSKY - “STATE OF MIND” (Manhattan Transfer’s pianist, leading a trio, doing mostly standards, with the group guesting on one track, and Janis Siegel on another).

Earthworks Audio: A Summa Cum Laude graduate of Berklee College of Music, Yaron has launched his musical career touring with Pharoah Sanders, and recording with Wayne Shorter on his album “Atlantis”. Since 1979, Yaron has been the Musical Director and Pianist/Keyboardist for the world-renowned vocal group The Manhattan Transfer. Yaron’s work was featured on the Broadway stage as well.

ALLAN HARRIS (FB,@AllanHarris) – “OPEN UP YOUR MIND” (Male vocalist, backing himself on guitar, doing mosty originals.  Some track border on smooth jazz).

Powerderfinger Promotions: Always known as a singer’s singer, in Open Up Your Mind Harris also gets the opportunity to show off his deep songwriting talent while letting the music world know that he can hold his own on guitar. Harris has a rich history in the jazz world, CNN referred to him as one of the “three best male jazz vocalists in the country.”

PAMELA HINES – “LUCKY’S BOY” (Pianist, leading a trio, with vocalist April Hall, singing all Pamela’s originals).

CDBaby: Jazz pianist/ composer Pamela Hines presents nine new vocal jazz originals that are sure to be part of the contemporary American Songbook. Soulful and Blues- oriented April Hall puts her vocal stamp on these clever, fun and inspiring tunes. John Lockwood is on bass with Les Harris, Jr. on drums. The result is and outstanding selection of jazz music that is sure to make an impact with jazz fans.
Hines has made a solid contribution to the history of jazz piano with her seventh CD on the Spice Rack label and more works on other labels. She was a guest on Piano Jazz with Marian McPartland in 2000, thanks to a critically acclaimed debut CD in 1998 with Bob Moses, Rick McLaughlin, Darren Barrett and Jaque Swarz-Bart.

WYNTON MARSALIS (FB, @WyntonMarsalis), & ERIC CLAPTON (FB, @EricClaptonNews) PLAY THE BLUES” (More of an early-
swing style recording, with a old swing version of “Layla”).

JazzReview.com: Reprise Records captures the magic of these unprecedented shows from earlier this year on CD and as a CD/DVD combo that both feature selections taken from the two public concerts (April 8-9), as well a special performance for Jazz at Lincoln Center's annual gala (April 7). Marsalis says the group combined the sound of an early blues jump-band with the sound of New Orleans jazz to accommodate the integration of guitar/trumpet lead, a combination that gave the musicians the latitude to play different grooves, from the Delta to the Caribbean and beyond.

RENOLDS JAZZ ORCHESTRA (FB) – “THREE PENNY OPERA-LIVE IN AARAU” (All-star big band, playing Kurt Weill’s music from his most famous work).

FAME (Mark S. Tucker): As before, the band here includes honored vets Randy Brecker and Miroslav Vitous, though every member is a superior musician. Many are the solos and just as numerous the influences and stylings—catch the Brubeckian take on Instead of Song, f'rinstance. One is also as likely to encounter a ululatingly enthralling Pharaoh Sanders cum Anthony Braxton voicing (Wedding Song for the Poor) as the aforementioned Dave, with Freddie Hubbardisms, Steve Coleman inflections, and of course the personalities and mindsets of the players themselves tossed in for a constantly morphing landscape. Everything is a kaleidoscope of surpassing skill and coloration.

JOAN STILES – “THREE MUSICIANS” (Joel Frahm and Matt Wilson join her, in mostly progressive versions of familiar tunes).

Amazon.com: Three Musicians is NY-based pianist/composer, Joan Stiles' 3rd CD, a joyful, interactive outing with Joel Frahm (sax) and Matt Wilson (drums). The trio glides and grooves through various jazz styles in brilliant but accessible explorations of standards, show tunes, Monk, Strayhorn, Mary Lou Williams, and even some Beatles and Clapton. Highlights include collages on LOVE - My Funny Valentine meets Sunshine of Your Love and MONEY - Brother, Can You Spare a Dime? meets Can't Buy Me Love. Stiles' compositions - West End Boogie, a soulful, rhythmic blues, and the Gillespie/Dameron inspired Bebopicity add to the eclectic mix. Hurly-Burly (Stiles' last CD) garnered a 4-star Downbeat review and topped Jazz Week Radio charts.

SUSANNAH (Martin) & PABLO – “TROPICOS SUR” (Female vocalist, doing the great Brazilian songbook).

CUONG VU (FB)– “LEAPS OF FAITH” (Pat Metheny’s trumpeter, in a very progressive outing).

AllAboutJazz.com (C. Michael Bailey): The stark juxtaposition of the familiar with the chaotic deepens understanding of the melody. Vu introduces what he is trying to do with the familiar before venturing into the unfamiliar, to provide a better understanding of his vision. This music is the collision between the secure and consonant with the disruptive and dissonant: meaning it reflects real life, where there are no white picket fences, only chain-link ones protecting paradise.

ANDREA WOLPER (FB, @AndreaWolper) – “PARALLEL LIVES” (Female vocalist, singing a mix of standards and originals).

Critical Jazz: "Parallel Lives" is an evocative sound scape collection ranging from Broadway to jazz beatnik to bebop and it is this very proud collection of music that defies standard categorization that makes it so captivating to enjoy. "Parallel Lives" is a celebration of musical diversity at its very finest. A vocal master class for where jazz vocalists should be heading today!

Session Notes for Monday 9-5-2011

Blog Name:The New Jazz Thing with Vince Outlaw

Blog Author:

Posted on:September 5, 2011

A few notes for the show, Monday, September 5, 2011 6-8 PM PT...

2011-09-05 Adds To The Jazz 88 Music Library

Blog Name:Jazz 88.3 Library Blog - New This Week

Blog Author:

Posted on:September 2, 2011

Here's the new batch of music being added to the Jazz 88 Music library and playlist, debuting on The New Jazz Thing with Vince Outlaw on Monday, September 5, 2011 6-8 PM PT!

ROY ASSAF / Ronen Itzik / Jorge Roeder / Augmented Reality (FB, Reverbnation) – “AUGMENTED REALITY” (Pianist first session leading a trio. Mostly
orginals).

About.com (Jacob Teichroew): Augmented Reality is lush and yet subtle, and with a range of stylistic influences, it achieves a sophisticated, understated presence. It is exciting to imagine how the music will sound as the band grows more seasoned around it, begins to take bigger risks while continuing to use melody as its inspiration.

CHRISTIAN FABIAN – “WEST COAST SESSION” (Bassist, leading a core trio, with
all-star guests, doing straight-ahead originals and jazz tunes).

NICOLE HENRY (FB, @nicholehenryjazz, YouTube) – “EMBRACEABLE” (Female vocalist, doing a mix of standards,
blues and new tunes).

AllAboutJazz.com (Larry Taylor): With the release of her fifth album, Embraceable, vocalist Nicole Henry pleasingly brings together a range of styles—smooth and mainstream jazz, along with pop and gospel. Henry's stated mission with this record is to take large steps in new directions, and she accomplishes this with a sweet, accessible voice that serves up lyrical ballads, as well as dishing out large helpings of soulful blues and gospel.

JAKE HERTZOG (FB, YouTube) – “EVOLUTION” (Extreme electric guitar).

The Jazz Word: Jake Hertzog, now with a handful of recordings under his belt, is one of the very few prolific young guitarists to convincingly embrace the potential of blending a jazz and rock style of performing. What stands out in Hertzog's playing, aside from a comprehensive knowledge of his instrument, is a willingness, regardless of style, to put it all on the line.

TIM MAYER – “RESILIENCE” (Saxophonist, with many all-star guests, doing a
collection of straight-ahead jazz tunes).

Mitch's Muse: Mayer's platter swings from the get-go. A few tracks have additional players for a richer sound-a bit plush, a hair away from lush, with thoughtful yet vigorous arrangements in the vein of Tadd Dameron, Don Sebesky, and pre-1965 Gil Evans.

JOSH NELSON (FB)– “DISCOVERIES” (Pianist, leading a variety of configurations, doing
all but one straight-ahead originals).

Critical Jazz: Cerebral jazz? In an incredibly unique if not personal release, Nelson takes his appreciation for the writings of Jules Verne among others and transforms this literature into a conceptualized presentation of sonic imagery that lives and breathes on its own. An incredibly thoughtful organic pulse drives the forward motion of this sonic adventure with great care and artistic touch. Nelson's music is (for me) not Ipod friendly, no good jazz worth listening to is. "Discoveries" contains intricate and involved interplay between Nelson and his musical companions that is exciting, fresh and alive to the point where mere headphones could not possibly transfer the musical experience adequately.

BOB SHIMIZU (YouTube,  – “FIRST & MONROE” (Guitar-led contemporary jazz session).

CDBaby: On this outing, Bob Shimizu has shown real bravery by not allowing the influence of the Smooth Jazz broadcast idiom's whimsical rules or, the tradition and "commandments" of the Jazz Police to alter the musical vision. Bob Shimizu has simply recorded a true contemporary jazz record in the most honest sense and, most importantly, he's simply made great music!

TIERNEY SUTTON – “AMERICAN ROAD” (Female vocalist, doing a mix of show
tunes, gospel and Americana).

Critical Jazz: Organic but deep rooted in tradition this exquisite release is perfect from start to finish."...take on her own unique, slightly eclectic but incredibly accessible spin on the Great American Songbook thus releasing an almost instant classic."
Challenge Records: “We first started looking at an ‘America’-themed CD three or four years ago,” says Sutton, whose vocal style has been described as “soft as silk and smooth as fine bourbon” by the Chicago Sun Times. Circumstances led the group in a different direction at the time, the result being 2009’s Desire, which earned the group its third consecutive Grammy nomination for Best Vocal Jazz Album.

But the concept that gave ultimately gave rise to American Road stayed with Sutton and the band—Christian Jacob (piano), Kevin Axt (acoustic and electric bass), Trey Henry (acoustic and electric bass) and Ray Brinker (drums and percussion)—until, having spent countless days and nights traveling America’s roads and playing in her towns and cities, they were able to finally bring it to fruition. All of the arrangements on American Road were conceived by the entire band, which, said The New York Times, has “refined the kind of rapport that could only be achieved over time…providing a continuous flow of support, strength and inspiration.”

BILLY WHITE – “FIRST THINGS FIRST” (Straight-ahead octet, doing all originals).

AllAboutJazz.com (Dan Bilawsky): First Things First is as apt a name for a debut album as anybody could come up with. While this marks pianist Billy White's first leader date, he already has plenty of impressive musical experience under his belt: spending his college years earning a degree in ethnomusicology from UCLA; working with a jazz/hip-hop hybrid group Heezbus, while living in Paris; studying Gnawa trance music in Morocco; and writing some music for films. Eventually, the San Francisco native landed in Brooklyn, NY and began focusing his attention on writing and playing piano. This album is the fruit of that labor and it's rife with exciting compositions and strong group interplay.

CHIP WHITE – “More DEDICATIONS” (Drummer, leading an all-star band,
doing his originals, with a disc of poetry included).

CDBaby: This recording is Chip’s fourth as a leader and composer. The others are "Harlem Sunset" (Postcards, 1994), "Music and Lyrics" (Dark Colors, 2005), and "Double Dedication" (Dark Colors, 2008). The poems on Chip’s CDs come from his book of more than 100 poems for famous jazz musicians, "I’m Just the Drummer in the Band."