[Various Artists] – Lefto presents Jazz Cats Volume 2

Can’t say no to a well-curated compilation, especially not its sequel. As a non-jazzhead, I was surprised to hear a number of genres that I wasn’t expecting from an album called Lefto Presents Jazz Cats Volume 2. It is an overt reminder that jazz comes in many forms…and usually includes a fabulous instrumental solo. Sdban Records | buy Lefto Presents Jazz Cats Volume 2 Dishwasher_ … Continue reading [Various Artists] – Lefto presents Jazz Cats Volume 2

Best Albums of 2021, 11-20 (part 1)

Bryan Away – Canyons to Sawdust On the pastoral Canyons and Sawdust, Bryan Away’s storytelling is given the perfect stage. Among the tales he sings is a nod to Ingmar Bergman’s miniseries (you may know its adaptation with Oscar Isaac and Jessica Chastain) and that track’s direct foil, the jaunty “Scenes from a Wedding.” The title of Away’s summer LP derives from an analogy in an … Continue reading Best Albums of 2021, 11-20 (part 1)

Jazz Greats Explore New York with No Destination in Mind

sngalbums: Jazz is never stagnant. The best live players are able to hop between keys and rhythms with an acute sense of place, asking where the song is headed and where they plan to interject. The genre is generous and has infinite facets, allowing veterans and newcomers to often occupy the same spotlight. Last winter, national stalwarts came together to form New York United—both a … Continue reading Jazz Greats Explore New York with No Destination in Mind

Jazz Greats Explore New York with No Destination in Mind

Jazz is never stagnant. The best live players are able to hop between keys and rhythms with an acute sense of place, asking where the song is headed and where they plan to interject. The genre is generous and has infinite facets, allowing veterans and newcomers to often occupy the same spotlight. Last winter, national stalwarts came together to form New York United—both a four-piece … Continue reading Jazz Greats Explore New York with No Destination in Mind

One of Chicago’s most respected improvisers is about to release a new album on International Anthem, called The Oracle. Angel Bat Dawid tracked and overlayed all parts on her new record for a fuller sound that still represents her freeform jazz spirit. Pre-order the album ahead of its release on Feb 8 here. Source: Bandcamp Continue reading