Bob Baldwin | Never Can Say Goodbye (A Tribute To Michael Jackson)
by George Strand
A year after the passing of the late, greatest entertainer of the world, Mr. Michael Jackson, pianist Bob Baldwin celebrates his legacy with a compelling tribute. The recording, “Never Can Say Goodbye” from Trippin N Rhythm Records, highlighted many of the biggest singles that had reached maximum chart status on Billboard.
Hulon | First Impressions
by Terrill Hanna
It didn’t take took too long for saxophone artist Hulon to make a firm decision to release “First Impressions” in a state or period where jazz music is being challenged, more so the term ‘smooth jazz’, in the music industry. And he should not worry so much about the tag or term being associated to his music. This release carried a great range of contemporary jazz sounds, orchestrated with a wellness of peace, a rift of soul & a channel of fluid deliveries coming from Hulon and a solid support of his studio musicians.
Gregory Porter | Water
by Peggy Oliver
It can be a blessing or a curse when a major sports injury can change life’s course; more often the former, of course. Gregory Porter was singing in clubs during his college days at San Diego State University. However, it was a shoulder injury while playing football that prompted him to further his music plans.
by Jeff Lorber Fusion | Now Is The Time by Randy Mahon On the first Jeff Lorber Fusion release since the stellar 1981 Arista Records project, “Galaxian”, “Now Is The Time,” we find the trailblazing keyboardist revisting a sound he helped pioneer. This time with the help of Yellowjackets’ bassist, …
Various Artists – C Notes for Haiti
By Peggy Oliver
It seemed like just a minute ago when a cross-section of urban entertainers from Stevie Wonder to Wyclef Jean were making music for one of several fundraisers to collect money for the aftermath of the January earthquake in Haiti. Other famous artists stepped in to produce fundraising singles on behalf of the Haiti earthquake victims. Kirk Franklin and a choir of gospel’s finest under the umbrella Artists United for Haiti asked the question, “Are You Listening.” Another superstar collective revisited the 1985 landmark anthem, “We Are The World,” also celebrating the 25th anniversary of the landmark recording.
Lynn Riley | Too Cool
by Terrill Hanna
Just a taste of contemporary jazz, I believe, is a statement Philadelphia native Lynn Riley wanted to leave on the minds and palates of music listeners through the album, “Too Cool”. Gently swayed with an aura of island fresh, breezy musical overtones along with a personal dedication to one of jazz’s trademark players in Grover Washington. Ms. Riley shares an inspiration to culture & influence from her extensive travels throughout various places around the planet & transcended those measures into a 10 track collection of upbeat, romantic & peaceful compositions.
by Ronnie Laws | Voices In The Water by Randy Mahon On this fantastic Ronnie Laws CD “Voices In The Water”, in which the album’s title is inspired by the slave shipped journey of captured Africans brought to America over 400 years ago, is released independently through Century 22 Productions. …
by The Uptown Band | Waiting For Her By Randy Mahon The promising 2010 debut “Waiting For Her”, from Philly area based collective known as The Uptown Band, blends a fine concoction of Jazz, Funk, Rock & Pop. Consisting of band leader Erich Cawalla on Lead Vocals and Saxophone, Co-Lead …
by Victoria White | The Upside New Jersey born, South Carolina raised singer/songwriter/guitarist, Victoria White, releases her second solo disc, aptly titled “The Upside”. It’s a fine 11 track collection of Soul with acoustic and folk elements weaved in. Discovered & produced by 14 year Earth, Wind & Fire alum, …
by Mimi Jones | A New Day By Randy Mahon Mimi Jones‘ debut CD “A New Day” (Hot Tone Music) is a remarkable refreshing effort from the bassist/singer/songwriter. With the support of talented musicians, Miki Hayama on piano & keyboards, Marvin Sewell on guitar, Marcus Gilmore & Lucianna Padmore sharing …