Akiko Grace - Jazz Street ~ The Duo+ (2002)

Here we have another wonderful session by the talented Akiko Grace. For this album she assembles an enthralling group of prestigious Japanese players in composite array of duo performances. Each guest shares two tunes with Akiko and then she finalises the album with a solo. The first duo performer is violinist Tetsuro Kawashima, followed by bassist Kiyoto Fujiwara, flutist Rie Akagi, guitarist Yoshiro Nakamura and completing the cycle with saxophonist Tetsuro Kawashima. The selection of compositions is mixture of standards, three of Akiko's own and both Kiyoto Fujiwara and Tetsuro Kawashima contribute one each. The album concept works well the listener is treated to a showcase of styles and Akiko's ability to compliment the other players truly display her versatility and immense talent, enjoy! 

Savoy Records, COCB-53031, 2002 

Musicians:
Akiko Grace - Piano, Solo (#11)
Tetsuro Kawashima - Saxophone (#9,10)
Rie Akagi - Flute (#5,6)
Yoshiro Nakamura – Guitar, vocals (#7,8)
Kiyoto Fujiwara - Bass (#3,4)
Toshihiro Nakanishi - Violin (#1,2) 

Tracks:
01. Cinema Paradiso {Ennio Morricone} (6:09)
02. So Be It {Akiko Grace} (6:50)
03. Rain {Kiyoto Fujiwara} (8:12)
04. When I Fall In Love {Victor Young} (8:06)
05. Straight No Chaser {Thelonious Monk} (4:08)
06. Como Fué {Ernesto Duarte} (5:20)
07. Estate {Bruno Martino, Bruno Brighetti} (6:48)
08. Triste {Antônio Carlos Jobim} (5:41)
09. My Soul {Tetsuro Kawashima} (6:58)
10. White Roses For You {Akiko Grace} (8:39)
11. Pulse Fiction [Take 1] {Akiko Grace} (5:33) 

Total Time: 72:31 

My Soul

Akiko Grace - New York Style (2003)

This is the final work in the New York trilogy of original albums, following "From New York" and "Manhattan Story." Contains 12 songs selected from a wide range of songs, including Van Halen's hit "Jump", "Greensleeves", and works by Bach. For Akiko Grace, who has made many strides in her career, this work is a challenge to her "own individuality." This work reveals its true value. ~ www.hmv.co.jp/ 

This is a highly personal album that brings out the creativity of Akiko Grace herself. While making full use of advanced arrangement and performance techniques, she has achieved a level of perfection that is not difficult to understand! The songs include a newly written original ballad "Pray Song ~ For Ground Zero", and the 80's blockbuster rock number "Jump" (Van Halen's cover). This time, she is backed by Larry Grenadier on bass and Bill Stewart on drums. ~ www.cdjapan.co.jp. [Translated from Japanese] 

Savoy Records, COCB-53050, 2003
Recorded 20th & 21st April, 2003 at Avatar Studio C, New York 

Musicians:
Akiko Grace - Piano
Larry Grenadier - Bass
Bill Stewart - Drums 

Tracks:
01. Jump {Van Halen} (6:34)
02. Chromazone {Akiko Grace} (5:09)
03. Greensleeves {Traditional} (6:36)
04. Smile {Charlie Chaplin} (5:15)
05. Caravan {Duke Ellington, Irving Mills, Juan Tizol} (4:25)
06. Siciliano Through My Eyes {J.S. Bach, Akiko Grace} (6:09)
07. Scarborough Fair {Art Garfunkel, Paul Simon} (5:03)
08. Pray Song ~ For Ground Zero {Akiko Grace} (6:07)
09. Sixth Sense {Akiko Grace} (5:18)
10. Transition [Future Mix] {John Coltrane} (4:24)
11. Breathe Out {Akiko Grace} (6:31)
12. Body And Soul {Eyton, Green, Heyman, Sour} (2:29) 

Total Time: 64:05

Credits:
Producer - Akiko Grace
Recording & Mixing Engineer - Dan Gellert
Assistant Engineer - Aya Takemura, Kyoko Tamanki
Mastering Engineer - Hiroyuki Hosaka
Art Direction - Kiyomitsu Mihara
Artwork Design - Jun Takagi
Photography - Hisashi Itoh 

Chromazone

Kengo Nakamura - Generations (2008)

Top bassist Kengo Nakamura, who is active on the front lines in New York, releases his fifth album after two years. The first trio album that spotlights the blues spirit that has been passed down from generation to generation from the pioneers of jazz to the present. Featuring two piano players, master Junior Mance and up-and-coming Danny Grissett, and drummer Clarence Penn, known for his co-stars with Makoto Ozone, Maria Schneider, Dave Douglas, etc., also fully participates. Don't miss the dynamic and realistic sound created by Grammy Award-winning engineer Joe Ferla. ~ fiftyfiverecords.com. [Translated from Japanese] 

55 Records, FNCJ-5528, 2008
Recorded 25th & 26th June, 2008 at Avatar Studio C, New York City 

Musicians:
Kengo Nakamura - Bass
Danny Grissett - Piano (#1,4-6,8,9)
Junior Mance - Piano (#2,3,7)
Clarence Penn - Drums (Except #2,6,10) 

Tracks:
01. Mingus Figures {Kengo Nakamura} (4:51)
02. The Single Petal Of A Rose {Duke Ellington} (5:18)
03. The Shepherd {Kengo Nakamura} (4:39)
04. Generations {Kengo Nakamura} (6:34)
05. Ellis Island {Kengo Nakamura} (7:33)
06. Reincarnation Of A Lovebird {Charles Mingus} (4:51)
07. Julian's Shuffle {Kengo Nakamura} (6:33)
08. Eternal Landscape {Kengo Nakamura} (5:10)
09. Chase The Chaser {Kengo Nakamura} (3:31)
10. Just Squeeze Me {Duke Ellington, Lee Gaines} (4:15) 

Total Time: 53:15

Credits:
Producer - Kengo Nakamura
Executive Producer - Hiroshi Itsuno
Recording Engineer - Joe Ferla
Assistant Engineer - Justin Gerrish
Mastering - Mark Wilder [Battery Mastering]
Photography - Michael Black [Black Sun Studio]
Artwork - Ruri Fujita [Design R]
Liner Notes - Hijiri Kanno 

Reincarnation Of A Lovebird

Hendrik Meurkens - Sambatropolis (2008)

Playing the vibes and the harmonica is a rather unusual combination. Hendrik Meurkens was drawn to these instruments after he heard Lionel Hampton play the vibraphone on Benny Goodman's Live at Carnegie Hall (Columbia, 1938) and, a few years later, the harmonica of Toots Thielemans. Even as he emerged as an adept player of these instruments, Meurkens was dipping into jazz, and particularly bebop. But he was also pursuing another tangent in Brazilian music. Meurkens has long been letting the two streams converge to give his compositions a particular scope and depth. Meurkens varies the line-up of his bands to give his music more pith and character. He gets off on the right note assimilating swing on the heated "Sambatropolis." Jed Levy and Rodrigo Ursaia fire up the swing on their tenor saxophones, while letting a bop impulse add dimension and tensility. Meurkens brings his own vision to bear, swerving in and out of the melody with broad, facile strokes. Besides, his conversation with the sax men is decidedly topnotch. The mood is quite different on the intimate "Ocean Lights." The ballad glows, given its soul by Meurkens on harmonica; however, it wouldn't quite be the same without pianist Helio Alves, who is not only full of fluid ideas, but is also an empathic complement. Antonio Carlos Jobim's "Voce Vai Ver" is another hallmark. The gentle strains of the bossa are dewdrops from the vibes; pretty yes, but also creating a splash and leaving an impress. "Choro Da Neve" spirals on the chorinho. The heady pulse is fanned by Meurkens on the harmonica with Adriano Santos driving the rhythm on the drums. Adding to the excitement are exhilarating contributions from Alves and Ursaia. Meurkens has come up with a winning blend, once more. ~ by Jerry D'Souza, AAJ. 

ZOHO Records, ZM 200801, 2008
Recorded 21st & 22nd March, 2007 at Acoustic Recording, Brooklyn, New York 

Musicians:
Hendrik Meurkens - Harmonica, Vibraphone (#2,7,8,10,11)
Jed Levy - Tenor Saxophone (#1,5,8,10,11), Flute (#2)
Rodrigo Ursaia - Tenor Saxophone (#1,2,4-6,9), Flute (#3,7)
Helio Alves - Piano (#1-7,9,10)
Ian MacDonald - Piano (#8,11)
Gustavo Amarante - Bass
Mauricio Zottarelli - Drums (#1)
Adriano Santos - Drums (#2,4,6-11)
Duduka da Fonseca - Drums (#3,5)
Pedro Ramos - Cavaquinho (#9) 

Tracks:
01. Sambatropolis {Hendrik Meurkens} (5:49)
02. Mem Lá Nem Cá {Adriano Giffoni} (5:00)
03. Ocean Light {Hendrik Meurkens} (5:26)
04. The Bee {Hendrik Meurkens} (4:27)
05. Fotografia {Antônio Carlos Jobim} (5:25)
06. Hot And Stuffy {Hendrik Meurkens} (3:07)
07. Você Vai Ver {Antônio Carlos Jobim} (4:55)
08. You Don't Know What Love Is {Don Raye, Gene De Paul} (6:25)
09. Choro Da Neve {Hendrik Meurkens} (4:26)
10. A Summer In San Francisco {Hendrik Meurkens} (5:54)
11. Bernie's Tune {Bernie Miller, Jerry Leiber, Mike Stoller} (4:55) 

Total Time: 55:54 

Credits:
Producer - Hendrik Meurkens
Engineer, Mixing - Michael Brorby
Photography - Jack Frisch
Liner Notes - Bill Milkowski 

Fotografia

Christian Winther - Soul House (2007)

Danish tenor saxophonist Christian Winther put together a potent quintet for his third SteepleChase release, including the outstanding American trumpeter Marcus Printup, pianist Richard Doron Johnson, bassist Carlos Henríquez, and drummer Ali Jackson. The big-toned tenorist contributed two originals, which open and close the CD. "Milla's Bounce" is a bouncing, upbeat hard bop vehicle full of great solos and lively ensembles, with a bit of Latin flavor kicked in at the end. Winther's "Soul House" is an Afro-Cuban theme, powered by Jackson's driving percussion. The leader's percolating scoring of Thelonious Monk's "Green Chimneys" showcases Henríquez and Printup in sizzling solos before Winther steps forward to add his own soulful touch. Johnson's "Ferris Wheel" is another spirited effort, an unusually constructed tune fueled by his enticing, shifting vamp. Jackson's lyrical originals "For Kenny" and "Aziel Dance" nicely round out this enjoyable session. ~ Ken Dryden, AMG. 

SteepleChase Records, SCCD 31633, 2008
Recorded January, 2007 

Musicians:
Christian Winther - Tenor Saxophone
Marcus Printup - Trumpet
Richard Doron Johnson - Piano
Carlos Henríquez - Bass
Ali Jackson - Drums 

Tracks:
1. Milla's Bounce {Christian Winther} (7:37)
2. For Kenny {Ali Jackson} (8:16)
3. Aziel Dance {Ali Jackson} (7:27)
4. Ones Of Wisdom {Frederick Sanders} (7:30)
5. Ferris Wheel {Richard Johnson} (9:09)
6. Dienda {Kenny Kirkland} (5:05)
7. Green Chimneys {Thelonious Monk} (7:21)
8. Soul House {Christian Winther} (7:36) 

Total Time: 60:05 

Credits:
Producer, Mixing - Nils Winther
Recording Engineer - Jon Rosenberg
Photography - Greg Miles 

Dienda

Hendrik Meurkens - New York Nights (1999)

The chromatic harmonica of Hendrik Meurkens is profound, lyrical, fluid, and swinging on his second release for the Netherlands-based A-Records label. New York Nights features a half dozen standards and four delightful originals performed by the harmonica master with Eric Alexander on tenor saxophone, Italian pianist Dado Moroni, bassist Chris Berger, and drummer Jimmy Cobb and together they weave a great tapestry of bebop, swing, and heart-wrenching ballads. Meurkens is an excellent composer as evidenced by the title track, "New York Nights," a pensive, nocturnal ballad. He plays a beautiful melody that is alternated by Eric Alexander's rendition of the bridge with excellent solos from them both. This combination of instruments - harmonica and saxophone - is very nice to hear on this wonderful collection of great songs. Alexander plays some great long lines and short phrases on "It Could Happen to You" with great improvisations by pianist Dado Moroni. The only drawback to this CD is that it does not include any compositions that feature Meurkens playing vibes as on "Mundell's Moods" or the sweet sambas he played on Samba Importado and In a Sentimental Mood. However, his covers of the priceless "You Stepped out of a Dream," "I Didn't Know What Time It Was," and Charlie Parker's blazing "Scrapple From the Apple" make up for that and add an extra layer of excitement and variety to this fantastic hour of great jazz. ~ by Paula Edelstein, AMG. 

A-Records, AL 73197, 2000
Recorded 19th & 20th December, 1999 at Current Sounds, New York 

Musicians:
Hendrik Meurkens - Harmonica
Eric Alexander - Tenor Saxophone (#2,3,5,8)
Dado Moroni - Piano
Chris Berger - Bass
Jimmy Cobb - Drums 

Tracks:
01. I Didn't Know What Time It Was {Lorenz Hart, Richard Rodgers} (5:53)
02. It Could Happen To You {Johnny Burke, James Van Heusen} (5:31)
03. New York Nights {Hendrik Meurkens} (6:09)
04. You Stepped Out Of A Dream {Nacio Herb Brown, Gus Kahn} (2:40)
05. Slidin' {Hendrik Meurkens} (5:49)
06. Bittersweet {Sam Jones} (6:26)
07. My Foolish Heart {Ned Washington, Victor Young} (7:03)
08. The Cottage {Hendrik Meurkens} (5:03)
09. Second Waltz {Hendrik Meurkens} (5:49)
10. Scrapple From The Apple {Charlie Parker} (4:50) 

Total Time: 55:18 

Credits:
Producer - Hendrik Meurkens
Engineer, Mixing - Joseph Bartoldus
Photography - Joost Leijen
Liner Notes - Hein van de Geyn 

It Could Happen To You

Keiko Matsui - Whisper From The Mirror (2000)

Keiko Matsui is usually classified as a jazz musician, which tends to mean that she doesn't get very good reviews, since she is reviewed by jazz critics, while her music actually is best described as a hybrid consisting of equal parts pop, jazz, and new age. Matsui can be an impressive keyboard soloist at times, but her recordings consist of textured tracks that find her featured playing set within a soundscape characterized by synthesized drums and strings. Whisper From the Mirror, her 11th album, is typical of her work, consisting of a series of four- and five-minute instrumental pieces full of shimmering, sustained sounds that pillow Matsui's delicate single-note runs and stately chord patterns. Derek Nakamoto's arrangements are occasionally stirring, but never frantic, and usually they emphasize flow over rhythm, just as the keyboardist shows more interest in sustaining moods than demonstrating her chops, even when she concludes the album with a four-handed piano duet with Bob James. It may be time to think about re-classifying Keiko Matsui from "jazz" to "new age," or even just putting her in a classification by herself. In the meantime, Whisper From the Mirror is another in a series of enjoyable recordings. ~ by William Ruhlman, AMG. 

Countdown Records, 17796-2, 2000
Recorded at Bindu Studio, Santa Monica, California [Derek Nakamoto];
and Remidi Studio, New York (Piano & Shakuhachi) [Ken Freeman] 

Musicians:
Keiko Matsui - Piano
Kazu Matsui - Shakuhachi
Derek Nakamoto - Synthesizer and Programming, Arranger
Bob James - Piano (#11) 

Tracks:

01. Whisper From The Mirror (4:38)
02. Invisible Wing (5:11)
03. Tears Of The Ocean (5:29)
04. Between The Moons (5:29)
05. Beyond The Light (4:26)
06. Torches On The Earth (5:01)
07. Dimensions (4:23)
08. Sacanna, No Problem (4:21)
09. Midnight Stone (5:18)
10. See You There (4:20)
11. Ever After (5:43) 

All compositions by Keiko Matsui 

Total Time: 54:22 

Credits:
Producer - Keiko Matsui
Producer, Jacket Design, Photography - Kazu Matsui
Recording, Mixing & Programming Engineer - Derek Nakamoto
Recording Engineer - Ken Freeman [Remidi Studio]
Mixing Engineer - Craig Burbidge [Bindu Studio]
Mastering Engineer - Steve Hall [Future Disc]
Jacket Design - Misako Kitazawa [Amnet Design Factory] 

Ever After

Makoto Kuriya - X-Bar Trio (1992)

Makoto Kuriya's first piano trio album, which at the time created quite an outcry with its extremely contemporary opening song "Survival Instinct." However, it still managed to receive an honorable mention by winning a recording award that year. For this album, Makoto is joined by bassist James Genus, his associate from his time in the US, and with Masahiko Osaka, a young drummer who returned to Japan around the same time as Makoto. The original first pressing was released in 1992. A first pressing of the reissue was then released in 1997. Overall, it is a provocative work with a popular but innovative sound, that yields a riveting contemporary jazz influence, with some tantalizing piano executions backed by a solid rhythm section. Well recommended! 

Paddle Wheel Records, KICJ-110, 1992
Recorded 25th & 26th April, 1992 at King Records #2 Studio, Tokyo, Japan 

Musicians:
Makoto Kuriya - Piano
James Genus - Bass
Masahiko Osaka - Drums

Tracks:
1. Survival Instinct (4:14)
2. In And Outs (5:40)
3. Harvest Road (5:46)
4. Justice (6:38)
5. Love And Dedications (5:33)
6. Here Comes The Bad Boy (7:27)
7. Moon Dog (6:34)
8. X-Bar Fantasy (8:42) 

All compositions by Makoto Kuriya 

Total Time: 50:40

Credits:
Producer, Notes - Makoto Kuriya
Producer, Executive Producer - Yoichi Nakao
Engineer - Hiroyuki Tsuji
Engineer [Assistant] - Shoji Nishizawa
Mastering - Seiji Kaneko
Art Director - Muneo Hanzawa
Design - Keiko Ogasawara
Photos - Yoshihisa "Rice" Yoneda 

Harvest Road

Renato Sellani encounters Fabrizio Bosso - Thank You, George Gershwin (2002)

One of the acid tests to evaluate jazz musicians is to put them into a duo setting. This all-Gershwin program, pairing veteran pianist Renato Sellani and a rising young star, Fabrizio Bosso, who doubles on trumpet and flugelhorn, succeeds with flying colors. Since most (if not all) of this music is already very well known to jazz fans, the duo has their work cut out for them to find new approaches to each song. "The Man I Love" combines Bosso's virtuoso flügelhorn (including an incredible unaccompanied coda) and Sellani's spacious, understated accompaniment to produce a masterful interpretation. "Oh, Lady be Good!" is one of the most familiar pieces in the jazz canon, but their marvelous, playful, and subtle introduction builds up the tension before they finally switch to a more typical tempo. "Soon" is not quite as well known as the remaining compositions on this CD, but their richly textured treatment of the lyrical ballad is a gem to behold. The two musicians are at their very best in the old warhorse "I Got Rhythm," which features Sellani at his most playful and some sassy muted work by Bosso. This is highly recommended. ~ by Ken Dryden, AMG. 

Philology Records, W 237.2, 2003
Recorded 19th March, 2002 at Mu Rec Studio, Milano, Italy 

Musicians:
Renato Sellani - Piano
Fabrizio Bosso - Trumpet, Flugelhorn

Tracks:
01. The Man I Love (8:12)
02. Oh, Lady Be Good (5:56)
03. Someone To Watch Over Me (4:18)
04. Strike Up The Band (6:21)
05. Soon (4:30)
06. But Not For Me (7:38)
07. A Foggy Day (7:28)
08. I Got Rhythm (4:29)
09. Embraceable You (6:19)
10. Somebody Loves Me (4:04) 

All compositions by George Gershwin 

Total Time: 59:20 

Credits:
Producer, Liner Notes - Paolo Piangiarelli
Engineer - Paolo Falascone
Mastering - Fabio Alfonsi
Photography - Valentino Paoletti
Graphics - danilo.santinelli@tin.it 

Someone To Watch Over Me

Tõnu Naissoo Trio - Turning Point (1981) [vinyl]

Tõnu Naissoo (born 18 March 1951) is an Estonian composer and jazz pianist. He has played in several musical groups, including his own trio groupings, and has written music for films and theatrical stages. Turning Point is an album by The Tonu Naissoo Trio, the album was recorded by Enn Laidre in 1981 and released by the Melodyia label. Turning Point refers to a changed cast as well as new explorations in music. With one exception Lonely Woman by Ornette Coleman, the tunes on the album are Naissoo’s own compositions dating from 1977 through to 1980. They range from cherished ballads to post-bop delvings, and are characterized by powerful rhythmics and intertwined ensemble play. A fresh coloring is added by the Rhodes piano enriching and modernizing the sound, and by experiments with the musical lineup. The album is one of Tõnu Naissoo major earlier releases. To this this day he has continued to evolve and develop his impeccable sound, especially through his very talented writing ability. It is easy to see his prowess on display even on this early release. Ripped from an original Russian vinyl, and with much care the dynamics are outstanding, enjoy! 

Melodiya Records, С60 16147-8, 1981
Recorded 1981 at Tallinn Recording Studio, Estonia

Musicians:
Tõnu Naissoo - Piano, Electric Piano
Taivo Sillar - Double Bass
Peep Ojavere - Drums 

Tracks:
A1. Turning Point {Tõnu Naissoo} (4:50)
A2. Yourself {Tõnu Naissoo} (4:37)
A3. Broken Hopes {Tõnu Naissoo} (6:05)
A4. Echo Of Reminiscences {Tõnu Naissoo} (5:08)
B1. Tomorrow {Tõnu Naissoo, Peep Ojavere} (3:29)
B2. Lonely Woman {Ornette Coleman} (9:41)
B3. Dewdrops {Tõnu Naissoo} (2:06)
B4. Blurred Brightness {Tõnu Naissoo} (4:34) 

Total Time: 40:30 

Credits:
Producer - Tõnu Naissoo
Engineer - Enn Laidre
Editing - Terje Luik
Design - I. Volkov
Photos - K. Suur
Sleeve Notes - Valter Ojakäär 

Turning Point

Richie Cole - Trenton Makes, The World Takes (1976) [vinyl]

This LP is a bit of a collector's item, for it was altoist Richie Cole's debut album as a leader and the only release put out by the short-lived Progressive Recording Company. Cole, who was 27 at the time, already had his sound, style, and approach very much together and is quite recognizable. Three songs are from a live date, while the other four selections were cut in the studio. Cole introduces such originals as "Harold's House of Jazz" (based on "Cherokee"), "Tokyo Rose Sings the Blues," and "Waltz for a Rainy Bebop Evening." The rhythm section, which features solos from pianist Gerald Price, is fine but Cole is very much the star throughout. This was an impressive start to a significant career and the LP is well worth acquiring, since it may be a while before it reappears on CD. ~ by Scott Yanow, AMG. 

Progressive Recording Co., PRC 1001-J, 1976
Recorded 16th November, 1975 (#A) at Allen/Singer Studios, Trenton, New Jersey
and 5th May, 1975 (B) at Lanzi's Club, Trenton, New Jersey (#B) 

Musicians:
Richie Cole - Alto Saxophone
Gerald Price - Piano
Benny Nelson - Bass (A)
Steve Gilmore - Bass (B)
Al Jackson - Drums
Doni Johnson - Congas (A) 

Tracks:
A1. Harolds House Of Jazz {Richie Cole} (3:14)
A2. Trenton Makes, The World Takes {Richie Cole} (6:38)
A3. Tokyo Rose Sings The Blues {Richie Cole} (6:16)
A4. It's The Same Thing Everywhere {Richie Cole} (3:56)
B1. Waltz For A Rainy Bebop Evening {Richie Cole} (6:56)
B2. Last Tango In Paris {Gato Barbieri} (6:32)
B3. Naima {John Coltrane} (5:52) 

Total Time: 39:24 

Credits:
Producer, Engineer, Photography - John N. Mathieu
Producer, Engineer - Bill Bird
Mastering Engineer - Dave Moyssiadis
Liner Notes - David Bittan 

Trenton Makes, The World Takes

Talib Kibwe Odyssey - Egyptian Oasis (1986) [vinyl]

Subtle mix of free jazz and spiritual afro jazz groove. The line-up is remarkable: Talib Kibwe on sax, flute and kalimba, Louis Petrucciani on bass, Bobby Few on piano, Sangoma G. Everett on drums and African percussions. Superb flute work (with that incredible buzz sound), very inventive piano parts, nice breaks. Recorded in France during the 80’s, only 2000 copies were pressed! Very fresh and totally obscure! ~ victorkiswell.com. 

A breath of fresh air released in 1987 by a wind instrument player Talib Kibwe, born in New York with Caribbean heritage, whose father is Jamaican and mother is Trinidad and Tobago. With a piano trio in the background, alto saxophone, soprano saxophone, flute, etc., and a piano trio including veteran pianist Bobby Few and talented bassist Lous Petrucciani in the background, this is a work that attracts attention with its passionate blow. ~ From the new album guide. 

Cryonic Inc., MAD 3033, 1987
Recorded 4th, 5th, 6th April, 1986 at Studio Gimmick, Yerres, France 

Musicians:
Talib Kibwe - Alto & Soprano Saxes, Flutes, Kalimba, Percussions
Bobby Few - Acoustic Piano
Louis Petrucciani - Acoustic Bass
Sangoma Everett - Drums, Percussion [African] 

Tracks:
A1. Pinnacle Of Joy {Talib Kibwe} (3:47)
A2. I Love Music {Hale Smith, Emil Boyd} (4:14)
A3. Waltz For Weston {Talib Kibwe} (6:30)
A4. Egyptian Oasis {Talib Kibwe} (4:57)
B1. 2000 Seasons Part 1 {Talib Kibwe} (12:12)
B2. 2000 Seasons Part 2 {Talib Kibwe} (2:45)
B3. Extented Family {Talib Kibwe} (2:49)
B4. Blues From Jaly {Talib Kibwe} (5:16) 

Total Time: 42:30

Credits:
Producer - Edouard Detmer
Recording Engineer - Herve Le Ouil
Photography - Michel Bocande
Sleeve Notes - Talib Kibwe 

I Love Music

Erik Jekabson - Crescent Boulevard (2010)

Trumpeter Erik Jekabson's 2010 effort Crescent Boulevard is a thoughtful, cerebral post-bop affair that is a perfect balance between melodic artistry and probing, knotty jazz improvisation. Similar to Jekabson's previous recordings including his stellar 2004 debut, Intersection, Crescent Boulevard finds Jekabson delivering his burnished, warm trumpet tone and fluid improvisational lines that bring to mind such influences as Kenny Dorham, Blue Mitchell, and Miles Davis. Moving from the catchy and melodic bossa nova album opener to the muted and atmospheric title track ballad, all of the songs here are Jekabson originals save for his sprightly take on Harold Arlen's "My Shining Hour," which he impressively performs with only drums behind him. Backing Jekabson here are guitarist Michael Abraham, bassist John Wiitala, and drummer Smith Dobson as well as pianist Dan Zemelman, saxophonist Dayna Stephens, vibraphonist Tommy Kesecker, and percussionist John Santos. ~ by Matt Collar, AMG. 

Jekab's Music, 001, 2010
Recorded 8th July, 2009 at Bay Studios, Berkeley, California 

Musicians:
Erik Jekabson - Trumpet
Mike Abraham - Guitar
John Wiitala - Bass
Smith Dobson - Drums
Special Guests:
Dayna Stephens - Tenor Saxophone
Dan Zemelman - Piano
Tommy Kesecker - Vibraphone
John Santos - Percussions

Tracks:
1. Parisian Jaunt {Erik Jekabson} (5:19)
2. Five More Minutes {Erik Jekabson} (6:44)
3. El Don {Erik Jekabson} (6:30)
4. Crescent Boulevard {Erik Jekabson} (7:15)
5. The Silver Fox {Erik Jekabson} (7:21)
6. Fallen Angel {Erik Jekabson} (5:15)
7. Sweet Face {Erik Jekabson} (4:48)
8. Eichhörnchen {Erik Jekabson} (6:58)
9. My Shining Hour {Harold Arlen} (4:02) 

Total Time: 54:14 

Credits:
Producer, Mixing - Erik Jekabson
Engineer, Mixing - Dan Feiszli
Mastering - Michael Perez-Cisneros
Assistant Graphic Design - Jesse Easley
Cover Art, Graphic Design - Mark Jekabson
Photo Courtesy - Kent Young 

My Shining Hour

Eddie Jefferson - Hipper Than Thou (1959, 1961)

Eddie Jefferson, one of the great jazz singers and an important pioneer of vocalese, is heard in peak form on this Evidence CD which reissues an Inner City LP and adds six previously unissued selections to the program. The bulk of the music is from 1959-1961, with Jefferson backed by several horns including trumpeter Howard McGhee and tenor saxophonist James Moody, and sometimes three other vocalists. There are many highlights including Jefferson's original classic versions of "Body and Soul" (a tribute to Coleman Hawkins, the "king of the saxophone") and "So What" (dedicated to Miles Davis), a remake of "Moody's Mood for Love" and vocalese adaptations of a few Lester Young and Charlie Parker solos. Most of the unissued tracks are from these sessions, but there is also "Silly Little Cynthia" from 1964 (a duet with pianist Tommy Tucker) and a meeting with guitarist Louisiana Red on 1965's "Red's New Dream." When one considers that Jefferson otherwise did not record during 1963-1967, it makes those two numbers not only enjoyable but historic. This CD is highly recommended for all jazz collections. ~ by Scott Yanow, AMG. 

Le Chant Du Monde, LDJ 274 946, 1989
Recorded 1959 (2,4-12,17-18) / 1961 (1,3,13-16) in New York

Tracks:
01. So What {Miles Davis} (3:30)
02. Moody's Mood For Love {Fields, McHugh, Moody} (3:10)
03. Sister Sadie {Horace Silver} (2:44)
04. It's Only A Paper Moon {Arlen, Harburg, Rose} (3:03)
05. TD's Boogie Woogie {Pinetop Smith} (2:26)
06. Now's The Time {Charlie Parker} (3:01)
07. Body And Soul {Eyton, Green, Heyman, Sour} (3:33)
08. Workshop {Gil Fuller} (2:57)
09. Sherry {Hank Crawford} (3:04)
10. Baby Girl {Eddie Jefferson} (3:18)
11. Memphis {Eddie Jefferson} (2:52)
12. Honeysuckle Rose {Andy Razaf, Fats Waller} (2:18)
13. The Preacher [A Crazy Romance] {Horace Silver} (2:27)
14. Night Train {Forrest, Simpkins, Washington} (2:34)
15. NJR [I'm Gone] {Quincy Jones} (3:18)
16. I Got The Blues {Lester Young} (2:41)
17. Silly Little Cynthia (Eddie Jefferson} (1:57)
18. Red's New Dream (Eddie Jefferson} (4:43) 

Total Time: 52:43 

Credits:
Producer [Original] - Herb Abramson (#1-12)
Compilation Director - Jean-Louis Méchali
CD Release Coordinator - Nicole de Pretto
Photography - D.R.
Liner Notes - Jacques Denis 

#1-12 originally released as The Jazz Singer [Vocal Improvisations On Famous Jazz Solos]
Inner City Records [IC 1016] 1976 

Baby Girl

Raffaele Casarano - Medina (2015)

Raffaele and his quintet meet two very special guests: the Norwegian star Erik Honoré, and a great orchestra from the region he has born. An album full of opposite sides that try to find a common place where a total and complete idea of music lives. The admirable balance between the various souls is fascinating, the result of Casarano's intuition of drawing a canvas where the individual parts could express themselves freely but coherently, and his meticulous direction in an ambitious project like Medina gives us proof of full artistic maturity.~ tukmusic.com. 

An album by my friend Raffaele Casarano of which I took care of direction, arrangements and orchestration. Unique project of its kind and full of jazz, electronic and symphonic sounds. Thanks to Marco Bardoscia, Mirko Signorile, Alessandro Monteduro, Cristiano Calcagnile, to the splendid timbres of Erik Honoré, to the fabulous Orchestra Ico Tito Schipa and to Paolo Fresu because he believes in these beautiful projects! ~ Alfonso Girardo, alfonsogirardo.com. 

Tǔk Music, TUK008, 2015 

Musicians:
Raffaele Casarano - Alto & Soprano Saxes, Electronics
Mirko Signorile - Piano
Marco Bardoscia - Double Bass, Electronics
Cristiano Calcagnile - Drums
Alessandro Monteduro - Percussion
Erik Honoré - Live Samples
Orchestra Sinfonica Tito Schipa
Alfonso Girardo - Arranger, Conductor

Tracks:
1. Remembering Esbjorn (4:43)
2. A Due (6:39)
3. Click Clock (10:34)
4. Il Paradiso Degli Sciocchi (4:23)
5. L'Istrione (5:22)
6. Se Vuoi Andare Vai (7:37)
7. Un Amico Immaginario (4:51)
8. Africa (3:54)
9. L'Allegra Tristezza (3:38) 

All compositions by Raffaele Casarano 

Total Time: 51:46

Remembering Esbjorn

Ron McClure Quintet - Descendants (1980)

Recorded in New York in July 1980. I participated in the work of Ron McClure, who was also with the Dave Liebman Quintet. Originally recorded for New Zealand's Ode Records, it was released by Ken Music when it was made into a CD. I read the liner notes, I couldn't find the word "Ode Records". Moreover, the album title has been changed from the original "Home Base" to "Descendants", and the jacket has been redesigned. What makes this CD great is that it has 2 more songs than the analog version, and the sound source was remixed in March 1990! I don't need analog records except for collectors. John Scofield has played a very notch performance over the whole volume, and it is by far the best guest participation work recorded in 1980. And Tom Harrell's flugelhorn is good! Maybe it's a synergistic effect, John Scofield and the trumpeter originally had a great compatibility, and Tom's play inspired him to play lively. ~ JohnScoMania, johnscomania.blog.com. 

Ken Music, 660-56-007, 1992
Recorded July, 1980 at Garden Studio, New York City 

Musicians:
Ron McClure - Acoustic Bass, Solo (#6)
Tom Harrell - Flugelhorn
John Scofield - Guitar
Mark Gray - Piano [Electric]
Jimmy Madison - Drums 

Tracks:
1. Boat People (8:37)
2. Dance Of The Scorpion (6:40)
3. Descendants (7:15)
4. Scorpitarius (8:46)
5. Line (5:32)
6. Life Isn't Everything (2:49)
7. Sunny Day (4:59)
8. The Calling (7:03)
9. M Street Shuffle (5:05) 

All compositions and arrangements by Ron McClure 

Total Time: 56:48 

Credits:
Producer, Liner Notes - Ron McClure
Executive Producer - Ken Fujiwara
Recording, Mixing, Editing & Remix - James H. Madison
Design & Edit - Peacock Pii 

Sunny Day

Makiko Hirabayashi, Klavs Hovman, Marilyn Mazur - Surely (2013)

Another prodigious album, the third by the gifted Makiko Hirabayashi and her trio partners: bassist Klavs Hovman and drummer, percussionist Marilyn Mazur. Recorded in 2013 the trio entered the Realistic Sound studio in Munich and laid down thirteen tracks. Makiko is predominantly credited for writing eight of the tunes, but Marilyn Mazur also contributes three first-rate compositions and the remaining two small tracks are attributed to the trio as a whole. Fundamentally, the album showcases Makiko wonderful skills as pianist and compelling composer. Her sound is bright and alluring, sumptuously balanced by Klavs Hovman's exalting bass-lines, all the while backed by Marilyn Mazur's driving drum set. The listener is taken on a wide-ranging journey becoming truly lost in the scintillating rhythms and the majestic composure of Makiko's piano playing. In addition, on a few tunes Marilyn Mazur adds further colouring with her unique voicing. The interplay among the players is very sharp and crisp, utterly captivating and instantly enjoyable. In many ways, it is not an easy-listening album but one that engages the listener into a musical experience that is truly memorable, if not paradoxical. The trio ushers forth music that is seemingly full of contradictions, but this trifling simplicity is sustained by subtle complexity, creating an encounter that’s not diminished by further playtime, enjoy! 

Enja\Yellowbird Records, yeb7738, 2013
Recorded 22nd, 23rd April, 2013 at Realistic Sound, Munich, Germany 

Musicians:
Makiko Hirabayashi - Piano
Klavs Hovman - Bass
Marilyn Mazur - Drums, Percussions, Voice (#7,11) 

Tracks:
01. Surely {Makiko Hirabayashi} (4:14)
02. Moon Bells {Makiko Hirabayashi, Klavs Hovman, Marilyn Mazur} (1:08)
03. Asunder Asunder {Makiko Hirabayashi} (5:38)
04. Life Of A Cactus {Makiko Hirabayashi} (6:29)
05. Stepping On It {Makiko Hirabayashi} (4:08)
06. Black {Makiko Hirabayashi, Klavs Hovman, Marilyn Mazur} (1:28)
07. Ode To Okinawa {Makiko Hirabayashi} (4:31)
08. Eagles And Angels {Marilyn Mazur} (5:22)
09. Parachute City {Makiko Hirabayashi} (2:25)
10. Våd Vinkel [Wet Angle] {Marilyn Mazur} (5:19)
11. Paradox {Makiko Hirabayashi} (5:49)
12. Challenge {Marilyn Mazur} (2:05)
13. Indigo {Makiko Hirabayashi} (2:30) 

Total Time: 51:14

Credits:
Producer - Makiko Hirabayashi, Werner Aldinger
Recording & Mixing - Florian H. Oestreicher
Mastering - Christoph Stickel
Photography - Karolina Zapolska
Cover Design - Franziska Erdle [Gold-Unlimited.DE] 

Våd Vinkel [Wet Angle]

Randy Weston - African Rhythms [Blue] (1984) [vinyl]

Mr. Weston is a descendant of two strong musical personalities, Duke Ellington and Thelonious Monk; but far from being absorbed by these influences, he has built a strong identity of his own... music filled with melody, rhythm and a dramatic flair that distinguishes him from any other contemporary pianist. ~ John S. Wilson, New York Times. 

His music is beyond category - not jazz, third stream, nor European classic - it is totally unique, serious, dramatic, infectious, delightful. ~ Duke Ellington. 

Randy Weston is a virtuoso, terribly sincere as an artist whose music reveals a fascinating mood. ~ Le Monde, Paris. 

Weston's ringing overtones in the extremes of the keyboard, his Middle Eastern melodies and stirring rhythms, and his lucid, nonlinear improvisation make for a mesmerizing set. ~ Village Voice. 

1750 Arch Records, S-1802, 1984
Recorded March, 1983 at Northwest Recording Studio, Seattle, Washington, DC 

Randy Weston - Piano [9 Foot Steinway Concert Grand Piano] 

Tracks:
A1. Penny Packer Blues {Randy Weston} (7:16)
A2. Earth Birth {Randy Weston} (4:34)
A3. The Last Day {Randy Weston} (4:45)
A4. Lagos {Randy Weston} (5:13)
B1. Blue In Tunisia {Randy Weston} (7:04)
B2. Mystery Of Love {Guy Warren} (5:07)
B3. Ellington Tusk {Randy Weston} (7:32) 

Total Time: 41:31 

Credits:
Producer - Tom Buckner
Production Assistant - Teo Sutton
Recording Engineer - Gerald Oshita
Cover Concept - Wm. Tony Gable
Front Illustration, Album Design - F. Glen Jones
Photography [Back Cover] - Preston M. Wadley
Sleeve Notes - Randy Weston 

Earth Birth