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• JAZZ YESTERDAY ----------------------------------------------------------> • JAZZ TODAY
• LATIN & WORLD JAZZ • JAZZ-ROCK, FUNK & FUSION • THE DVD CORNER

Jazz !!! Many say it's dead, a smart one said "jazz is not dead, it just smells funny". Here at Music By Mail we receive a lot of offers, information, press releases that show the ever continuing vitality and diversity of jazz. There would be so many things to list that a web site is not the best place to put them on.
If you'd like to be up to date, then ask for our newsletter. We use to send them once a month unless something important happens. You'll be registered in our database and receive our mail offers telling you what happens …. Now!
And of course feel free to tell us what you have been desperately seeking for monthes or years, Cds or vinyls. We'll tell you what the odds are. For now here are some of the interesting things which have been around lately. Enjoy!


    THE DVD CORNER

  • Bruce Barth Trio: Live at Cafè del Teatre, Lleida Jazz Festival (Quadrant Q00001V). DVD. Recorded in 2004, the concert includes personal compositions as well as tunes by jazz icons like Charles Mingus (Duke Ellington’s Sound Of Love), Monk (Pannonica) and incursions into pop territory with a Beatles cover (Strawberry Fields)
  • Gary Burton: Live in Cannes during Midem 1981. Jazz Options ACE11109C. With the Hum Trio
  • Charlie Byrd: Live at Duke’s Place, New Orleans 1993. Jazz Options ACE11102C
  • Cobham, Billy: Crosswinds. Jazz Options ACE11121. Live in Cannes, 1989. With Rita Marcotulli on piano and keyboards
  • Chick Corea: Live at the Iowa State University 1987. Jazz Options ACE11103C
  • D'3: Live (Quadrant Q00002V). DVD. Legendary saxophonist Jorge Pardo is caught live at the Pau Casals Auditorium in El Vendrell, Catalonia, in 2005. With him are Francis Posé & José Vázquez. Fantastic production!
  • Laurent Dehors: Qué Tal Carmen ? (LD 3). This DVD presents us the tentet "Tous Dehors" in collaboration with a choir- les Choeurs de la Maitrise de la Loire - and theater director Yann Dacosta (assistant of Alfredo Arias)
  • Trio Derome / Guilbeault / Tanguay: Étymologie. Ambiances Magnétiques AM166. Dec. 07. This DVD was filmed on June 29, 2006 during a sold out concert which was part of the Off jazz festival of Montreal. Derome plays alt and baritone sax, flute and sings too. Tanguay is at the drums and Guilbeault is the acoustic bass player
  • Dj Spooky / Taj Mahal / Dave Douglas / Etc: Freedom Now ! A reflection on picture and music. A white card to 6 instructors who filmed the 2003 edition of the “Banlieues Bleues” festival (Paris and suburbs). The DVD offers the best extracts of the 6 films (75mn) but also “Watch Me!”, a 52mn long documentary presenting the american saxophonist Ernest Dawkins working with pupils from schools in Seine St-Denis. 2 DVD available in French or subtitled English version. Format : 4/3 . Stereo sound or 5.1.
  • Esbjörn Svensson Trio : Live In Stockholm. DVD. 96mn of a concert from 10/12/2000 at the Nalen rock club. ACT 9900-9
  • Amina Figarova: Live In Amsterdam. Munich Records BMD 5002. Recorded at the BimHuis in August 2005, this is European jazz by a septet with 2 saxes, 1 trumpet, 1 flute, piano - held by the leader - and rythm section.
  • Dizzy Gillespie: Summer Jazz, Live at New Jersey 1987. Jazz Options ACE11101C.
  • Grappelli, Stéphane: Cheek To Cheek. Jazz Options ACE 11124. Live in New Orleans, 1989.
  • Herman, Woody & His Young Thundering Herd: Fanfare For The Common Man (Jazz Options ACE 11122). Live in Houston, 1985
  • Ahmad Jamal: Live in Cannes. ACE11093C. From the label Jaz Options and featuring Gary Burton
  • Guillermo Klein Y Los Guachos: Live in Barcelona. FSNT 902. At last in DVD the intense and brilliant concert that Guillermo Klein & Los Guachos gave in the cozy setting of the Luz de Gas venue during the 36th Barcelona Jazz Festival in 2004. For a such special occasion, Juan de Cruz Urquiza and Richard Nant flew in from Buenos Aires, Chris Cheek, Bill McHenry, Taylor Haskins, Sandro Tomasi, Jeff Ballard and Ben Monder came from New York and Fernando Huergo from Boston. Los Guachos were joined by two regular Fresh Sound New Talent artists, Gorka Benítez and Carme Canela.
  • Mangione, Chuck: Feel So Good (Jazz Options ACE 11120). Live at the MIDEM, Cannes in 1989.
  • McCann, Less & His Magic Band: Bat Yam (Jazz Options ACE 11125). Live in New Orleans, 1983
  • John McLaughlin / Paco de Lucia / Larry Coryell: Meeting of the Spirits. ACE 11068. The DVD is the recording of their 1979 show at the Royal Albert Hall, London and finds all three not only in fine form, but thoroughly enjoying the experience. The three perform in various combinations, mixing jazz with flamenco in this 55 minute, five-song performance that highlights their individual and combined talents.
  • Tineke Postma: Live In Amsterdam. Munich Records BMD 5001. Tineke is saxophonist and has a diplom of The Manhattan School of Music. This show is done in collaboration with the National Dutch TV and radio companies, presenting us with contemporary jazz played by Rob Van Bavle (p, keys), Martjin Van Iterson (g), Marcel Serierse (dms), Jeroen Vierdag (b) and Ilja Reijngoud (tb)
  • Irene Schweizer: A Film By Gitta Gsell. This fantastic DVD takes its source at the Willisau Jazz Festival in 2004 (trio with Fred Anderson & Hamid Drake) and Moods Zürich 2003 in duo with Han Bennink. Also featured in this documentary are LOUIS MOHOLO, MAGGIE NICOLS, JOËLLE LEANDRE, PIERRE FAVRE, CO STREIFF, LA LUPA, JÜRG WICKIHALDER. PAL and subtitled in German, French, English and Spanish.
  • Jimmy Smith: Live at the Florida keys ‘99. Jazz Options ACE11099C
  • Toots Thielemans: Bluesette (Jazz Options ACE11123). Live in New Orleans, 1985.
  • Heleen Van Den Hombergh: Live In Amsterdam. Munich Records BMD 5003. The music is inspired by the passion of its leader for tropical forests. A trio of piano/bass/percussions backs the singer. Tony Overwater is the bass player.
  • Martijn Van Iterson Quartet: Live In Amsterdam. Munich Records BMD 5004. Van Iterson is a great Dutch guitarist and composer who was nominated in 2004 for the "Bird Award" held by the famous North Sea Jazz Festival. This record comes after 7 years of silence and presents his current quartet (a trio of piano/bass & drums is behind the leader)
  • Vision: Vision Festival Vol 3. This CD + DVD covers the 2003 festival and shows the performances of various artists such as WHIT DICKEY, FRED ANDERSON, MATTHEW SHIPP, ROY CAMPBELL, JOE McPHEE, ANDREW CYRILLE, KIDD JORDAN, WILLIAM PARKER (Jeanne Lee project), ROB BROWN's RESONANCE, JIN HI KIN, PATRICIA NICHOLSON'S PANIC, etc... there are also interviews on the DVD. Released on the label Arts For Art.
  • Yoruba Andabo: Rumba en La Habana con Yoruba Andabo. AYVA AVD-02 (DVD PAL Zone 0 - Price Code 05). For the first time on DVD, a great film based on one of the best cuban rumba band. Yoruba Andabo are purveyors of modern Havana style rumba. The music is a very sophisticated blend of traditional and modern influences. The dancing hails back a hundred or more years, with modern moves thrown in as well. Here hot, sensual rumba, guaguancó, toque de santo, song, Abakuá and Congolese chants, and communication with the dead converge. They signify the pieces of history of a country forged in a melting pot of races and encounters with other cultures. Full illustrated 20-page booklet including informations about orishas and batá drums.


    • FROM THE 80'S TO CONTEMPORARY JAZZ!

  • 100 NKA & Herb Robertson: Superdesert. Not Two Records MW821-2. 2009. The trumpetist together with a Polish band consisting of guitar, bass and drums.
  • Jazz from Argentina!

    + Rodolfo Alchourron: Parábola (1980). 2nd solo album recorded in 1975-76 and 1980. Features Dino Saluzzi and keybordist/singer Litto Nebbia, who produced the record
    + Gustavo Bergalli: Gustavo Bergalli & Mixtura. Frank Andrada Music 2005 - FAM 22021. Record from an Argentinian trumpetist who started his career in the touring groups of French Michel Legrand. This new record is a project based on and influenced by many rhythms like Charecas, Zambas, Tangos, Milongas etc.... with compositions by Jose Reinoso, Horacio Fumero, Aldo Caviglia, Marcelo Mercadante. A musical fusion rich in colours and sounds
    + Horacio “Chivo” Borraro: Vol. 2 Clarinet & Rarities (1951/1999). 2nd volume dedicated to the Argentinian multi reed player, an institution in his country!
    + Alberto Favero: Suite Trane. Whatmusic.com WMCD/LP-0068. Composed in memory of John Coltrane soon after his death in 1967, this much sought-after masterpiece is once again available on CD & LP on the 35th anniversary of its first release! The suite, in 5 movements for jazz orchestra and soloists, is recorded in the Estudios Ion SA, Buenos Aires in December 1969. There are also 3 bonus tracks in quartet, recorded in April 1968.
    + Guillermo Gregorio: Coplanar (New World 80639). This Argentinean musician and composer takes his inspiration from the "constructivist" artists from East Europa and their counterparts in Argentina. Geometric forms, sound spatialization, music to watch ...
    + Enrique Ibarguren Trio: Sometime Ago. Whatmusic WMCD-0049. This album is the brainchild of jazz producer Fernando Gelbard and London’s John Cooper, jazz maker extraordinaire. The recipe is simple: some great jazz standards, a superb rhythm section to add some spice: Oscar Giunta Jr. on drums and Guillermo Delgado on bass. The pianist, influenced by Tatum and Victor Feldman, is known as one of the finest mellow piano players in south America.
    + Quinteplus: En vivo 1972 (1972). Quinteplus was one of the most solid Jazz bands around. Their trade mark trait was to fuse different sonic languages and contemporary genres of the era, such as Beat, Blues and Rock, together with their own jazzy style.
    Both records are part of a series called "Documentos del Jazz Argentino" and due to the label Melopea Discos
    + Daniel Salinas: Atlantis. Whatmusic.com WMCD/LP-0063. The 1973 Jazz/Funk Orchestra Classic.

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  • Phil Abraham Quartet: From jazz to baroque ou l'inverse! Mogno Records J 019. Very unique project consisting of a rereading of baroque music in full respect of its rules and with the aim of integrating it into jazz harmony; in other words give also jazzman the possibility of improvising on ancient music. To this purpose, abraham called for a reknown ensemble in ancient music: The Ventosum Ensemble. There are also special guests playing an instrument called sackbut.
  • Dag Arnesen Trio: Norwegian Wood (RM17-2). With this album, the Norwegian jazz pianist Dag Arnesen reaches back to the music of his childhood. With him are Terje Gewelt on bass and the great drummer Pal Thowsen. These folk songs, along with the music of Edvard Grieg have always been an important part of Arnesen's musical identity.
  • Frode Barth & Harald Johnsen: Blue Spheres. MTG Music MTGCD70003. The Norwegian musicians and composers Frode Barth (acoustic and electric guitars) and Harald Johnsen (acoustic bass) have worked professionally for many years. Both have extensive experience in recordings, concerts and tours at home and abroad. Barth and Johnsen have previously been co-featured in various CD-recordings (Johnsen is for ex. part of the Tord Gustavsen Trio on the prestigious German label ECM) . This time, they have joined forces to produce their very own unique album, Blue Spheres. One might describe their style as modern jazz, for lack of a more precise phrase. A romantic tone meets elements of contemporary music and electronica. Blue Spheres is the result of many years of collaboration, improvisation and compositional exchange between these two outstanding musicians.
  • Stefano Battaglia & Michele Rabbia: Stravagario 2. Via Veneto (VVJ 049). This duo consisting of piano / Rhodes + percussions delivers a subtile and moving modern jazz with a strong Italian touch.
  • Albert Beger: Evolving Silence Vol.2. Earsay's Jazz Production 2006. Beger is a saxophonist born in Turkey who immigrated to Israël at the age of three. This second volume presents him on tenor sax and alto flute, together with the illustrious rhythm section of Hamid Drake & William Parker. The latter is heard on bass and African hunter's harp. Albert’s music is inspired by the world and environment around him, while the Jazz music is the basis to all this. Furthermore, he combines the influences of Classical and Ethnic music in tunes which come from nature and the soul.
  • Disciples of harmolody, the Belghoul Quartet is composed of 3 Algerian brothers and a friend. Their album "Harmolodies" is clearly inspired by the master Ornette Coleman.
  • Gregg Bendian's Trio Pianissimo: Change (AGG 004). After his cover project of the music of Mahavishnu, Bendian is here back to an acoustic trio with pianist Steve Hunt and bassist John Lockwood
  • Two albums by ace bass player Jeff Berlin are actually seeing a reissue; Aneurythms (EX 27160) from 2006 and Lumpy Jazz (EX 37290) from 2004. On the first, he teamed with talented and versatile drummer Vinnie Colaiuta, while ex PMG member Danny Gottlieb seats on the drum chair on the other album
  • Björkenheim / Parker / Drake: DMG @ The Stone / Vol 2 (DMG 722). March 09. This 2nd volume presents on the same stage (Stone) the Norwegian guitarist Raoul Björkenheim (some of you have maybe heard him in the Scorch Trio ?), backed by a dream team: William Parker on bass and drummer Hamid Drake
  • The Blue Notes: The Ogun Collection. Ogun (OG 024-028). This 5CD boxset is simply THE ultimative choice for all those who'd like to complete their knowledge of South-African jazz and of one of their best - if not the best - exponents! From a 1964 recording in South-Africa to a session from 1975 in homage to trumpetist Mongezi Feza or a quartet London concert in April 77 and until a trio recording in homage to bass player Johnny Dyani, this integral set of recordings can't just be ignored!
  • Michiel Borstlap Trio: Coffee And Jazz. Gramercy Park GPM050505. Release date: 19/03/07. With drummer Pascal Vermeer and bassist Stefan Lievestro. Winner of the Thelonious Monk/BMI Composers Award 1996 in Washington, USA, Bortslap is a young and quickly raising Dutch pianist who worked with many great jazz names (Herbie Hancock, Pat Metheny, Wayne Shorter, Bill Bruford). The material of this CD is mainly standards (Cole Porter among others).
  • Zach Broch And The Coffee Achievers. Behind this gorgeous hot smelling name, you'll find the american violinist Zachary Broch who previously released the album "Silent Films" with his other group Spazztet. The new album presents a quartet of violin/piano/bass/dms playing modern and fresh jazz with a great sense of dynamics and nuances. More on www.cdbaby.com/group/secretfort

  • Brötzmann / Yudanov / Luoma: Fryed Fruit. Red Toucan (RT 9316). Feb. 09. Recorded in 1999 at the Kerubi Club of Joensuu, a Finnish town, this power trio is closer to rock than to jazz, drummer Nicolai Yudanov reminding us of Japanese extravert Tatsuya Yoshida (from the duo Ruins). The Finnish guitarist Sakari Luoka doesn't either spare extravagance, sending around splashes of atonal chords, scratching his strings with metallic objects while Brötzmann vociferates in or through his horns (sax and clarinet), growling like a mad man. Big sound and raw energy are what you'll get here!
  • Peter Brötzmann: Petroglyphs. Long Arms LA 04051. October 06. This is the first CD by Brötzmann on a Russian label. This is a sax trio recorded in moscow in April 2002. Brötzmann is heard on alto, tenor and taragot while his russian partners are Ed Sivkov on baritone sax and Nick Rubanov on bass saxophone
  • Brötzmann / Manderscheid / Samba: Danquah Circle (KCD 5127). Nov. 2005.
  • Kyle Bruckmann's: Wrack. Red Toucan (RT 9323). Feb. 09. Between jazz and modern chamber music, this album offers unique timbral combinations: oboe, French horn, alto sax and trombone. No drums but percussions (Tim Daisy) for a more delicate expression. 6 original compositions and a cover of Ornette Coleman's "Lonely Woman"
  • Bill Bruford & Michiel Borstlap: In Two Minds (EX 36116). March 09. Recorded in 2007, "In Two Minds" features eleven intimate and conversational tracks of new, original material, and a stand-out reading of the Miles Davis classic "All Blues". This is the 2nd CD done by the duo
  • Bill Bruford & Tim Garland: Earthworks Underground Orchestra. BBSF013CD. This little big band’s debut performance in the USA at Iridium, New York City, was captured live in full roaring swing, and the result will appeal alike to Earthworks fans, and fans from Bruford’s former life in King Crimson and Yes. Earthworks, as a small group, celebrates its 20th Anniversary in 2006, and when Bruford and Garland took fresh arrangements of some of the band’s best loved tunes over to NYC to work with some of the finest players in the U.S. in a nine-piece configuration, it sounded like the perfect anniversary party was just around the corner!
  • New from Bill Bruford and his labels Summerfold & Winterfold.
    Drummer Bill Bruford has since 2003 taken in own hands a program of releases and reissues of his own music. Here is an overview of those due to release in March 2005.
    - Earthworks: S/T. BBSF009CD. This recording of the debut Earthworks album has been re mastered and includes two bonus tracks: All Heaven Broke Loose and A Stone's Throw. Earthworks Mark 1 also featured horn players Django Bates and Iain Ballamy alongside upright bassist Mick Hutton. As with other albums in the Summerfold series of releases, Earthworks comes repackaged with a bonus disc containing music from the contrasting Winterfold catalogue and an exclusive interview with Bill Bruford.
  • Dave Burrell Trio: Expansion. HT 001. His 23th album as leader and here with Andrew Cyrille and bassist William Parker (also playing here kora). Burrell is one of those rare pianists able to encompass stride and avant garde at the same time.
  • George Burt / Raymond Mc Donald (featuring Lol Coxhill - Bill Wells - Daniel Padden): One Bloke (Textile Records TCD13). Release Date: June 26th 2007. The collaboration of George Burt and Raymond Mc Donald with Lol Coxhill has produced 5 CDs, each one having a different approach. For this CD the duo wanted to add Bill Wells & Daniel Padden to the mix; not least because they are their friends with whom they have collaborated many times, but also because they felt their approach, at times improvisatory but with a strong melodic focus, would be very compatible with their own way of working with Lol. Of course Lol has a huge and richly deserved reputation as a unique free improviser with an innate, organic and never-ending sense of melodic inventiveness.
  • Cédric Caillaud Trio: June 26. Aphrodite Records 2006 (APH 106004). Cédric Caillaud is both the bass player and leader of this French trio, which is not too common. France has a lot of excellent jazz bass players but leaders are few (Patrice Caratini & Henri Texier are those who come to mind). Cédric has been travelling forth and back from France to New York where he followed classes and took teaching hours by great names such as pianists Richie Beirach, Kenny Barron or trumpetist Tom Harrell. He is today one of the most aftersought bass players on the Parisian jazz scene and works among various formations throughout Europe. A few guests are to be heard here as well, among others another bass player and composer, French Pierre Boussaguet who had an important role in Cedric's growth as player.
  • Daniele Cavallanti Electric Unit: Smoke Inside. Long Song LSR02. October 07. Cavallanti is a saxophonist player, member of the Italian Instabile Orchestra. He invites here in his quintet guitarist Nels Cline for a music that would unavoidably be linked to the late 60's Blue Note period. And the outburts of the Tony Williams Lifetime aren't far either!
  • Andrea Centazzo: With Mitteleuropa Orchestra. This release from the label Newtone is the 5th of the Ictus reissue program. Goin back to the 80's we find highly acclaimed improvisers such Enrico Rava, Franz Koglmann, Gianluigi Trovesi, Carlos Zingaro.
  • Thomas Chapin Trio: Ride. Playscape Recordings PSR071595. Nov. 06. This live concert was recorded at the North Sea Jazz Festival in July 1995 and evoque Roland Kirk, a strong inspiration for the late Chapin. There is also a Beatles cover: A Ticket To Ride. While Chapin is heard on alt and sopranino sax, the trio is completed by Mario Pavone on bass and Michael Sarin on drums.
  • Nels Cline / Elliott Sharp: Duo Milano. Long Song LSR03. October 07. Sharp considers Nels Cline as one of his favoured guitarists and partners! Those moments captured in a very good recording studio have been worked out with much precision and a sense for details!
  • Command All Stars: Curiosities 1972. Reel Recordings (RR010). 2008. In February 1972, a group of young jazz musicians gathered in London's Command Studios, with producer Robert Fripp, to record a double album intended for Ronnie Scott's Productions. The cast, consisting of pianist Keith Tippett, saxophonist Elton Dean, trombonist Nick Evans, trumpetist Mark Charig, and bassists Harry Miller & Johnny Dyani, with drummer Keith Bailey, unquestionably qualify the moniker All Stars. When the results were rejected as "no commercial potential", the master tapes were reused and the project forgotten, until Nick Evans, prompted by Reel Recordings, found copy reels for two of the four sides. What was discovered were diverse collective improvisations in a variety of group settings occasioned with unlikely instrumentation (Tippett - electric piano, Dean - sopranino, Miller - African flute). These tracks amount to much more than a series of curiosities as its title suggests, and open-hearted listening to this spontaneous music making reveals a plethora of riches. Of special note is the emotionally deep playing and interaction from South African bassists Harry Miller and Johnny Dyani. Recorded documents that add to the important history of British Jazz do not surface very often and this rare All Star session commands its cultural recognition!

  • Vincent Courtois & Ze Jam Afane: L'Homme Avion. Chief Inspector (CHIN 200813). Following "Les Contes de Rose Manivelle" here's a new album presenting the extraordinarily poetic universe of French cellist Vincent Courtois and the African lyricist Ze Afane Jam. It's hard to describe how much this album catches on one, from the chamber rock arrangements made by Courtois to the splendidly articulated musical narration of his partner. Of course understanding French will open some more doors (some political messages, some poetic dreams) but it is not a must and non French readers will also been seduced and hypnotized by the unreal magic brought in by all players! A lovely album, even more concise in its nearly dadaistic logic than its predecessor
  • Vincent Courtois: Les Contes de Rose Manivelle. On the french label Le Triton. With Louis Sclavis guesting.
  • Lol Coxhill: Coxhill on Ogun. Ogun (OG 008). April 09. This release gathers two cult albums from an especially creative period for the sopran saxophonist: Diverse (1977) and The Joy of Paranoia (1978).
  • Alban Darche Trio: Brut Ou Demi-Sec? Yolk (J2046). Street date: 14/09/09. Maybe more known for his band "Le Cube", French saxophonist Alban Darche opts here for the trio + 1 formula, guitarist and previous member of the Orchestre National de Jazz Alexis Thérain joining them in their unceasing exploration of new rhythmic contours or melodic surfaces
  • DDJ: S/T. Umlaut (UML009). Dec. 08. Young French trio based in Paris and price winner at the sought after jazz competition of Paris La Défense in 2007. Julien Desprez on guitar, Benjamin Dousteyssier on saxophone and Yann Joussein on drums can remind us of Tim Berne in his more experimental projects with guitarist Marc Ducret or the more electric versions of Curlew.
  • After many European concerts, Laurent Dehors: Dommage à Glenn is now available on CD.
  • Jean Derome / Louis Sclavis Quartet: Un Moment De Bonheur. Live in Quebec. Sclavis brought with him bassist Bruno Chevillon and Derome's drummer Pierre Tanguay.
  • Hermine Deurloo: Crazy Clock. TWM 001. Oct. 06. Member of the Willem Breuker's Kollektief since the 90's, Hermine is one of the few challenging harmonicists at work. For her 3rd album, she offers us re-readings of Hendrix's Electric Ladyland or pieces by Ali Farka Touré, the "Throughout" of guitarist Bill Frisell and more yet. If you think you knew what playing the harmonica was about, you may reconsider it an extra time!
  • Diallele: S/T. Great Winds (GW 3123). March 09. Diallele is a young French band born in 2005 and playing experimental jazz. The trio is made of saxophone and clarinet player Mathieu Lemaire, guitarist Sylvain Lemaire and drummer Romain Berce. Diallele's music swings between jazz and Progressive rock, in all its aspects. But this is first and foremost a "land of freedom", opened to the melting-pot of various artistic forms.
  • Digital Primitives: Hum Crackle`n Pop. Hopscotch HOP 42. Oct. 09. This is the first album from a trio led by multi-instrumentist Cooper-Moore, here playing keyboards, flute, harp, zither, banjo, etc... With him are saxophonist Assif Tsahar, by many considered as the spiritual continuation of Albert Ayler, and drummer Chad Taylor, coming from Marc Ribot's band (Spiritual Unity). Blues-edged funk with ethnic colorations and the kind of free jazz typical of the loft generations are what our guys deliver here. Other titles are also available on the same label: "Planet Dream" from the same trio, "Lost Brother" (from 2005, with drummer Hamid Drake replacing Taylor), "Tells Untold" (duo Cooper-Moore / Tsahar).
  • Vincent Dionne. Mostly known for his 70's work with Bregent in the progressive musical fields, the Canadian artist did later released two solo albums: "Destinations" and "Parade". These albums came out in 1988 and 1991 respectively. Both these albums have aspects of e-music, minimalism, and ECM-ish jazz. "Destinations" is mostly a trio work with Dionne on drums/percussion/synth, Paul McCandless of Oregon on woodwinds, and Roxanne Turcotte on keyboards. "Parade" is Vincent aided by five or six musicians on different tracks performing similar instrumentation, plus bass and tabla. There is a McCandless composition on this one and also a Michel-Georges Brégent composition. Both albums are now available, gathered and reissued on one single CD!
  • Diptyque: 7. Great Winds (GW3124). May 09. Olivier Messiaen never foresaw that his seven modes would set up an interaction in a freestyle conversation between saxophones and drums, pitting seven cardinal signs against their virtues. Alexandre Davin & Jean-Marc Baccarini have decided to re-appropriate and serve them up to you. Their music happens spontaneously, in a space of creative freedom where anything is possible. "Experimental" music where intuition overrides reason. This music is an encounter, an unusual relationship, a dialogue between two committed musicians deeply involved with jazz and all forms of improvised music flowing from its source.
  • Djivilli Quintet: Give Five. Vade Retro VD0105. Gipsy jazz in the tradition of Django: solo guitar, violin, two rythm guitars and bass.
  • The Documentary: Sights and Sounds from the Recording of "The Sound of New York Jazz Underground". (See details in the jazz section under Freshsound)
  • Releases from a small label: Dodicilune!
    + Kenny Wheeler & Brian Dickinson: Still Waters. ED 213. fluegelhorn and piano for charming ballads composed around the thematic idea of water. A forgotten recording to rediscover!
    + Antonello Messina: Aziyz. ED 225. The leader is playing the piano, accordion and bandoneon. With the trumpet of Fabrizio Bosso, a rhythm section and a few guests, a musical universe made of rigorously constructed melodies, a subtile blend of sounds between instruments, well crafted improvisations, opens itself to us!
    + Andrea Sabatino: Pure Soul. ED 221. An album made by the new Italian generation, fresh and energetic, percussive and ludic!
  • Dave Douglas Quintet: Live At The Jazz Standard. Greenleaf GRE05. Sept. 07. This 2CD gathers a selection of the best tracks recorded by the quintet at the club "Jazz Standard" in December 2006. The 12 sets played in this period were already offered as MP3 downloads on the trumpeter's site but at the demand of his fans who wanted to hear his music without the mp3 compression, he decided to come up with this CD! Note that it also includes two covers ONLY available on the CD! The band features saxophonist Donny McCaslin, the great Uri Caine on Fender Rhodes, James Genus on bass and Clarence Penn on drums.
  • Dave Douglas: Meaning And Mystery. Greenleaf GRE04. June 06. This third album by the quintet of the eclectic trompetist is inspired by the late 60's period of Miles Davis (with such albums as Filles de Kilimandjaro, Miles in the Sky, In a Silent Way), but also by the actual quartet of Wayne Shorter or the combos led by Julius Hemphill or Baikida Carroll. We find on piano and Rhodes the great Uri Caine while the bass and drums chairs are occupied by James Genus & Clarence Penn
  • New from trumpetist Dave Douglas! His albums for Arabesque Jazzwill finally be released in 2006 in France during the Spring
    + Leap Of Faith (98). Quartet featuring saxophonist Chris PotterJames Genus and drummer Ben Perowski. AJ 145
    + Magic Triangle (97). Same formation pusshing away the boundaries of free bop. AJ 139.
  • Dave Douglas: Keystone (GRE 03). Oct. 2005. This brand new set by Douglas is inspired by the life and films of silent movies actor Roscoe "Fatty" Arbuckle. 11 original sound tracks revisited by an energetic band, not unlike Martin, Medeski & Wood and featuring among others Jamie Safton würlitzer or DJ Olive on turntables. the DVD presents us the film "Fatty and Mable Adrift" as well as a reworked video of another comics classic.
  • Bob Downes Open Music: Crossing Borders. Reel Recordings (RR011). 2008. Bob Downes is a multi-instrumentalist composer possessing a distinctive musical personality and prowess. Through bodily breath emanates sublime sounds from an array of flutes, poignant patterns from his alto and tenor saxophone performances, and engaging expressions of complimentary vocalizations. Open Music is the moniker under which Bob has produced an eclectic range of records since 1968. However none of the above prepares the listener for the profoundly engrossing experience that is Crossing Borders. Composed during an extended tour throughout South America in 1973, and evocative of the exotic locales encountered, Crossing Borders is a compendium of musical precision, mysticism, and tranquility. During the late seventies Bob Downes produced a beautifully warm analogue recording of his programmatic vision, colluding with contemporaries: guitarist Brian Godding, trombonist Paul Rutherford (1943-2007), bassists Barry Guy, Mark Meggido and Paul Bridge (1941-1998), and drummers Denis Smith and John Stevens (1943-1994). Thirty years later this unreleased record finally sees the light of day, and it has aged like a fine wine. A recording this special comes deservedly wrapped with our highest recommendation for everyone prepared to cross musical borders!

  • DPZ: He's Looking At You, Kid. E-Motive Records (EMO 901). This rather new French project is the collaboration work of saxophonist Thomas De Pourquery (member of the group "Le Sacre du Tympan") and trombonist Daniel Zimmermann (member of Andy Emler's Megaoctet). Sound, improvisation and writing are here at the service of a lyricism and a communicative energy leaning towards a rock approach. Dark, passionate, with a burning rhythm section and the guitar of Maxime Delpierre, another new name belonging the young generation of upcoming musicians
  • Dreamtime: Cathanger ’86 (HUXO55). Released: 28/06/2004. Dreamtime was formed in 1982 as a jazz trio featuring Nick Evans (tb), Gary Curson (sax) and Jim LeBaigue (dms). However in the same year it augmented to a quintet with the addition of Jim Dvorak (tp) and Roberto Bellatalla (b), then finally later to a sextet with the addition of pianist Keith Tippett.
  • Ismael Dueñas Trio: Diversions. Frank Andrada Music 2005 - FAM 22012. This young pianist from Catalonia is considered as one of the rising stars of contemporary jazz. The selection of tunes and composers is free as well as complex, going from classics by Ellington or Cole Porter to newer stuff by Bill Frisell or guitar hero Jimi Hendrix.
  • Earth: The Bees Made Honey In The Lion's Skull. Southern Lord SUNN90. The Bee Made Honey In The Lion’s Skull finds Dylan Carlson and the band growing into a harder, more rock and American gospel oriented and improvisitory direction framed by a truly psychedelic production and blazing guitar sounds. Earth shows its affinity with a nod to the best elements of the more adventurous San Francisco bands of the late 60s and 70s, and the more spiritually aware and exciting forms of jazz-rock from the same era. This is no nostalgia trip but a thoroughly inspired and original metamorphosis. Earth is honoured to be joined on this record for three songs by legendary and virtuoso guitarist Bill Frisell (doing some of his most fuzzed out playing in years). Frisell adds a brilliant texture and counterpoint to the scintillating riffs of Dylan Carlson and the band. On drums is Adrienne Davies , lending a classic and steady feel to the proceedings. Back in the band is Steve Moore , adding heavy Hammond organ and his intense jazz-inspired piano playing. Live bassist Don McGreevy also makes his full-length Earth debut on this record.
  • Liberty Ellman: Orthodoxy (RG 01). Reissue of a well received album by the guitarist on his own label Red Giant, released in 1997. Ellman was member of the first incarnation of Steve Coleman’s Mystic Rhythm Society and has also been partner of such great names as Greg Osby or Henry Threadgill.
  • FAB Trio: Live in Amsterdam. Porter Records (POR 4014). March 09. Recorded in 2008, this is the 4th album by this trio made of violinist Billy Bang, bass player Joe Fonda and drummer Barry Altschul
  • Patrizio Fariselli: Acqua Liquida Suite. 2007. (NUN 0180602). Brand new record by ex-Area keyboards player Patrizio Fariselli, with the help of Paolino Dalla Porta on double bass and Massimo Manzi on drums. A suite in seven movements for Fariselli's jazz trio.
  • Flat Earth Society: Cheer Me, Perverts! Crammed Discs (CRAM 138). 2009. New album by Peter Vermeersch's 14-piece band, whose title is indeed an anagram of his name! New repertory but still the bitter-acid-sweet delirium we can expect from this musical chameleon!
  • The Fonda / Stevens Group: Memphis. Playscape Recordings (PSR 033108). Oct. 09. Featuring trumpetist Herb Robertson and drummer Harvey Sorgen, this is the 4th studio album by this outfit; as pianist Michael Jefrey Stevens today is based in Memphis, the title may be seen as an elogy to a town that is in fact a true musical melting-pot, like the band as well?
  • Sonny Fortune: Live At The A-trane. Konnex / Atonal. March 07. The ex Miles Davis member, saxophonist and flutist is joining here in 2005 the trio of German drummer Ernst Bier, which also features guitar and organ.
  • Satoko Fujii! I have always been in awe when looking at the impressive discography of the Japanese pianist and its diversity! Her pianistic expression has always deeply moved me but if you had the quality of her meticulously chosen and numerous musical partners, you're in for a great great treat! From her trio with drummer Jim Black and bass player Mark Dresser to the various Western or Eastern big bands to jazz-rock/fusion combos with her husband, the list is long! I decided that Music By Mail should have most of her output on our catalog for sale. So if you want to initiate a long journey in her fantastic musical thoughts, contact us by mail and we'll make sure that you get it!
  • The Japanese pianist Satoko Fujii makes again the actuality with 3 new releases on her own label, planned for June 2008:

    Satoko Fujii Trio : Trace A River. Libra 203-020. A new recording in four years by her longstanding trio with bassist Mark Dresser and drummer Jim Black . "Trace a River" finds them expanding on and refining the collective artistry they have developed over the past 10 years. Satoko still succeeds in finding new ways to showcase the trio's ensemble empathy and individual brilliance.
    Junk Box : Cloudy Then Sunny. Libra 203-019. This is the 2nd release by this trio featuring trumpeter and husband Natsuki Tamura and percussionist John Hollenbeck. The new release is both unpredictable and provocative. Fujii doesn't use conventional notation in her compositions for this group, instead the scores include words and some graphic elements. The result is what she calls "composed improvisation," an approach that blurs the line between the consciously conceived and the instantly performed and allows the players wide improvisational freedom alongside some composed direction.
    Gato Libre: Kuro. Libra 104-018. Gato Libre is more in a world vein with an all acoustic sound calling for trumpet, guitar, accordion (played by Satoko) and bass. The music seems to emanate from no particular country on Earth, but comes instead directly from Tamura's own unique imagination, a quirky land where European folk idioms and modern improvisatory techniques have formed a special bond. Kuro finds the band exploring the furthest reaches of Tamura's concepts, in an album that feels like the soundtrack to a vaguely narrative dream.
  • Charles Gayle Trio : Forgiveness. Not Two Records MW805. 2009. This album was recorded at Jazzga Club, Lódz, Poland on April 25, 2007. With Hillard Greene on bass and drummer Klaus Kugel
  • Charles Gayle: No Bills. Long Arms LA 05057. Oct. 06. Solo recording (sax and piano) from Moscow and Arkhangelsk in April 2003 by one of the free players with the most incredible intensity and spiritual dedication
  • Elisabeth Geel: So Cool. MP Records MPRCD 048. 2006. The newest release from this Italian label presents us with a nice surprise: Elisabeth Geel is a songwriter and singer with a warm, powerful and precise voice and her compositions, quite rooted in jazz (acoustic and electric), are challenging; so are the lyrics too, serious stuff. Along her own music, she also interprets a few classsic jazz and bossa standards. A very cool debut album, between Joni Mitchell & Patricia Barber!
  • David Gilmore: Unified Presence (KRM-CD-1124). 11 tracks for this new record by one of the most in-demand guitarists in jazz, previous companion of Steve Coleman in his "5 Elements" band. Featured both on electric or acoustic guitar, David called this time for a number of reknown partners such as Christian McBride on bass, Ravi Coltrane on saxophone (yes, John Coltrane's son!), and drummer Jeff "Tain"Watts.
  • Karolina Glazer: Normal (JARO 4296-2). 2009. Recognized as the rising star of Polish jazz vocalism, Karolina Glazer specializes in an instrumental approach to the voice and directs a lot of her attention to scat improvisation. With her 4-octave scale and a great imagination, she delivers on "Normal" a journey across various cultural spots of the world combined with harmony and jazz tradition, mixing Arabic scales with Latin sounds, drum’n’base with jazz. She is not alone either and many musicians contribute to the final result; among them, bass celebrity and sound maker Krzysztof Scieranski (Laboratorium, String Connection) or vibraphonist Bernard Maseli have to be pointed at and thanked for their great input!
  • Brian Goder: Torque. Latham Records 5106-2. The composer, trumpetist and ensemble leader Brian Goder releases here an album with the Sam Rivers trio, featuring bassistDoug Mathews and drummer Anthony Cole, both being members since respectively 1993 and 1991. Rivers is heard here both on sax and flute and the innovative compositions of the trumpeter offer a perfect framework to his inspired improvisation skills.
  • The label Golden Years can help you to better know the jazz from the ex soviet countries. Their program of rereleases is delightful such as for example "Taango In Nickelsdorf" with the Ganelin Trio or the third volume of Soviet New Jazz, a limited special edition of a 4Cdbox with a 28 p. booklet to present soviet jazz.
  • Geoff Goodman Quintet: Tall Tales and Dreams (Tutu CD 888222). Intelligent music penned by the leader and guitarist Geoff Goodman, characterized by a complex balance between form and improvisation, control and spontaneous impulse. The band consists of: Felix Wahnschaffe: alto saxophone; Rudi Mahall: bass-clarinet; Geoff Goodman: el-guitars & banjo; Henning Sieverts: bass & cello; Peter Perfido: drums & percussion.
  • Danny Gottlieb Trio: Jazz Beautiful Ballads. With pianist Mark Soskin and bassist Charles “Chip” Jackson. Nicolosi Prod. NIC90018
  • Henry Grimes / Rashied Ali: Going to the Ritual. Porter 4005. Jan. 09. Henry Grimes is on bass, violin and he sings as well. Recorded at the Columbia University in 2007.
  • Simone Gubbiotti: Sinergy. ART. July 2009. Guitar/Hammond/Drums trio led by the Italian guitarist and featuring on drums the great Joe LaBarbera
  • Hepa Halme: Prospektor. Presence Records (PRECD-011). Release date: 14/05/08. This is a new album by woodwinds multi-instrumentalist Hepa Halme. The album includes seven attic jazz flavoured originals recorded at the artist's summer house in Pornainen, Finland. Halme has a long career behind him and his experience ranges from punk to free jazz to performing arts and beyond. Much has changed in the business of making music since the first ideas that ended up on this record saw the light of day. In fact, one of the main instigators for this album has been the fruitful employment of handy technology. Starting from scratch and applying layer after layer, summer after summer, Hepa Halme has built an audio mosaic minimalistic in many ways, yet so delicate in detail that it's only fair it has taken him some years to complete. Some of the musical concepts on this record even date back to the dawn of the 1980's when Hepa entered the local music scene. There's freedom and improvisation within Hepa's framework of, yes indeed, "attic jazz". But there's also form. These are songs. Introspective and delicate textures build up upon each other continuously as the compositions grow into entities in their own right. The album draws to a close by an excerpt of nightly bird song, a recorded fragment of the audio landscape where this music comes from. Yes, all this brings us to a careful comparison with another bird lover AND multi-reed instrumentist: Eric Dolphy. The music has somehow, somewhere, a Mingusian feel but it's just a brick in a bigger view of a much expressive artist!
  • Harmonize Most High: Babylon. Ruby Red (RR16). H.M.H. are one of the most blessed free jazz, psychedelic collectives. Their debut album his out now on limited edition with a beautiful art cover painted by Robert Ryan. Guaranteed that their music will take you to higher places!!
  • Peter Hertmans & Erwin Vann 4tet: Stone Sculpture. Mogno Music 2006 J 020. The first is guitarist while the second is saxophonist. Together they create a defying music, travelling between Europe and the USA, helped in this by a special guest, drummer Billy Hart who 10 years ago already recorded with the guitarist.
  • Jaromir Honzak Quintet: Present Past. This new release from the czech label Indies Records is a wonderful one and the first openly directed towards jazz. The leader is bassist and his composition skills are pretty well exposed here in a gorgeous, sonically rich and carefully electric/acoustic music definitely anchored in modern writing.
  • Gary Husband: The Complete Diary of a Plastic Box. Angel Air 2-CD set (SJPCD252). May 6th, 08. The seminal, debut solo album of compelling music from a multi-instrumentalist and composer Gary Husband (John McLaughlin, Allan Holdsworth, Billy Cobham, Level 42, Gongzilla, Robin Trower, Jack Bruce) has his solo album reissued with an entire bonus CD of previously unreleased material and outtakes complete with all new liner notes and cover artwork.
  • Il Manifesto: A new label from Italy! And if you're a fan of the AACM, please read further ...
    + Art ensemble of Chicago: Reunion.Concert from october 22, 2003 recorded by the RAI Radio 3 of Rome. Another testimony of this great band!
    + Kocani Orkestar meets Paolo Fresu & Antonello Salis: Live! Il Manifesto CD 143. This presents a meeting between the K.Orkestar and Paolo Fresu + Antonello Salis, fixed on CD forever (above 60 mn). The tracks are taken from various live recordings during late February and early March. 2004. A great ethno-jazz CD by the Makedonian ensemble!
    + Roscoe Mitchell & The Note Factory: The Bad Guys. Live recording from 2000 at the Fano festival. Great Black Music!
    + Famoudou Don Moye: Bamako Chicago Express. Concert from Longiano, march 2002. Features the Malian musician Baba Sissoko.
    + El Negro & Robby Band: Live at Umbria Jazz. The cream of young Cuban musicians and Americans from New York mixing here funk, rap, salsa and latin jazz. In fact, the original drummer was Robbie Ameen but he suddenly got rejoined on stage by the great Horacio "El Negro" Hernandez. Smokin'!

  • Vijay Iyer: Panoptic Modes (Red Giant RG 11). 3rd project from a young player from India in which will be found the audacity of avant garde, his own Indian roots and the rhythmic complexity of the M’ Base school.
  • Harry Miller's Isipingo: Full steam Ahead. Reel Recordings (RR012). 2008. South African bassist Harry Miller (1941-1983) retains stature as an internationally recognized player who possessed both technical virtuosity and limitless musicality. One needs to only consider his gorgeous bass playing within the Mike Westbrook Concert Band and the legendary Brotherhood of Breath, to cite but two. During the mid-seventies Harry Miller formed Isipingo, a sextet crucible for his joyfully infectious Kwela inspired compositions. The musicians in the fray of these previously unreleased studio recordings read as a "who's who" of classic British Jazz; alto saxophonist Mike Osborne (1943-2007), pianists Stan Tracey or Keith Tippett, trumpeters Mongezi Feza (1945-1975) or Mark Charig, trombonists Nick Evans or Malcolm Griffiths, with the other half of Harry's heartbeat, drummer Louis Moholo, stoking the fiery coals. These men shined through Harry Miller's vibrant compositions, two of which appear here for the first time. Born out of numerous sweaty nights in London's Peanuts, Phoenix and 100 Club, these undeniably exhilarating recordings of Harry Miller's Isipingo remains a proud clarion for the present generation of jazz lovers.

  • New record by Polish singer and musician Anna Maria Jopek! Titled "ID" and released on May 14th, 2007, until later in Poland only. Anna Maria and her husband Marcin Kydrynski invited for this album a host of world famous musicians, just check the list: Mino Cinelu, who already worked with anna on the 2003 album "Farat", ECM relatively newly signed drummer Manu Katche, bass players Christian McBride & Richard Bona, the Brazilian guitarist Oscar Castro-Neves, saxophonist Branford Marsalis, the Tunisian oud player and singer Dhafer Youssef, Supersilent's Norwegian trumpetist Arve Henriksen .... and the highly valued Polish pianist Leszek Mozdzer. If you haven't heard yet the fascinating voice and musical sensitivity of A.M. Jopek, this could be an excellent place to start!
  • The russian pianist Andrei Kondakov is really one to be discovered; together with bassist Vladimir Volkov and the fabulous french hornist Arkady Shilkloper he released Outline (Boheme Music CDBMR 912119), which easily could be presented as a new form of the Moscow Art Trio. In duet with guitarist Paul Bollenback or alone at the piano he released "Alone And Together" Boheme CDBMR201227), a mixture of jazz standards, personal compositions and one Lennon-Mc Cartney song (And I Love Her). Finally, "Kind Of Optimistic" is the gathering on CD of two sesssions, the first with his working band from St Petersburg and the other from a russian tour with Paul Bollenback, drummer Ralph Peterson, saxophonist Ravi Coltrane and New York based bassist D. Kolesnik
  • Benjamin Koppel / Chano Domínguez / Jacob Andersen: ¡Ritmo! Cowbell Music AVC-05. March 06. The Danish jazz saxophonist, here with his Danish colleague on percussion (Andersen is a much used session man) and Chano Domínguez on piano; compositions by Koppel and two originals by Chano. Special digipack edition.
  • Briggan Krauss'H-Alpha: Red Sphere (SKI 009). Nov. 08. Saxophonist (alto and baritone) Briggan Krauss offers here an album between the written and the improvised. With him are tenors of the improvised free jazz scene, drummer Jim Black and laptop specialist Ikue Mori
  • Last Exit: Headfirst Into The Flames (DMG 701). March 09. CD reissue. Originally released on the Muworks label, those live recordings from 1989 in either Munich or Stockholm are among the best this power quartet delivered. The rhythm section of Ronald Shannon Jackson & Bill Laswell is at its hottest, propulsing both guitarist Sonny Sharrock and saxophonist Peter Brötzmann to new heights
  • Eric Leboucher-Radiguet: Alone Together. ELR 3444. This is a series of guitar duos with 3 other great jazz players, Joe Dorio, Sid Jacob & John Stowell. Mostly standards!
  • Uli Lenz Trio: Good-Bye Venus. Tutu CD 888218. Recorded at AudioCue Studio, Berlin in March 2006. With bassist Ed Schuller and drummer John Betsch. Lenz is a very sensitive pianist described as follows by Ed Schuller: "Uli has his own unique style rhythmically, harmonically and melodically - check out his left hand. His compositions also bear an original stamp, often bluesy, sometimes playful but always with a strong direction."
  • Peter Lipa: Live in Akropolis Prague. This is a CD + DVD. You will find 19 tracks on this concert DVD recorded in March 2005, more than two hours of live music, and also bonus videos and photogallery. Peter Lipa is an internationally respected jazz and blues singer and composer. His previous release was an interpretation of the music by The Beatles.
  • Peter Lipa Band: Live In Hungary (GR 051). This concert album was recorded in 2004 during the tour with Djabe. There are songs from his previous album titled „Beatles In Blue(s)” and other great jazz-arrangements from Lipa’s other albums.
  • Jessica Lurie Ensemble: Zipa Buka! Eclectic jazz from a Seattle based saxophonist and singer. Post bop, latin rhythms and klezmer accents as well as east european music are some of the elements of a very lyrical and dynamic mix.
  • Machy Madco: Sueño Azul (2007) - Argentina - {Fusion,/Latin/Prog Fusion}
  • Roberto Magris Trio: Kansas City Outbound. Featuring the last recording session by jazz icon Art Davis , among other one of the notorious bassists for John Coltrane. A great trio performance, a rare collector's item (this is a limited edition from the 2008 US tour)
  • Roberto Magris & Big Band Ritmosinfonica Citta' Di Verona: Restless Spirits. Magris' best compositions performed by a 43-piece super big band that can blow your socks off !!! Freshness, dynamics, power, the kind of heart-felt passion typical of young musicians, the unique colour of the Fender Rhodes, are some of the things you'll find therein ...
  • Alex Maguire Sextet: Brewed in Belgium. Moonjune MJR022. Recorded live on October 27 at De Singer in Rijkevorsel, Belgium by Henk Weltevreden for the Dutch National Radio (VPRO), broadcast on November 7, 2007. Mostly known by those who follow the British jazz scene but also fans of Canterbury prog outfit Hatfield & The North (in which he took the keyboard chair at the band's reformation), Maguire has here put up a new project implying another exciting Belgian combo called The Wrong Object. They team up to launch a repertoire ranging from lyrical to groovy tunes, haunting melodies, free improvisation and high-energy interaction. Maguire’s talents as a pianist and a keyboard player are so diverse, his touch so personal and his telepathic conversations with the other musicians so explosive and brilliantly unpredictable that the line that divides the written parts from the collective improvisations is often impossible to draw. Thanks to the sextet’s improvisational skills, the mixture remains coherent and fascinating throughout despite the wide range of styles that characterizes this highly unusual record.
  • Rudresh Mahanthappa' S Indo-Pak Coalition: Apti. Innova Recordings INN 709. Jan. 09. This Indo-Pakistanese trio is led by a young alt saxophonist who has often been placed in the same spheres as those travelled by Steve Coleman. Here with guitar / sitar guitar and tablas, he launches an infernal machine at full speed, some kind of alien Shakti
  • Rudresh Mahanthappa: Black Water. Red Giant 12. 2nd album (the first on PI Recordings) by the Indian saxophonist with an earthy sound and close to the inflections of the human voice.
  • Giovanni Maier Technicolor: Featuring Marc Ribot / A Turtle Soup. Long Song LSR 105. June 08. This is a double keyboards + rhythm section quartet. Maier is known as the bass player of among other the Italian Instabile Orchestra or more recently the Daniele Cavallanti Electric Unit and even the frequent partner of trumpetist Enrico Rava. Here on electric bass, he offers us a record between fusionish flies (where Ribot reminds us of Jeff Beck or even Mike Stern) and more etherical ambiances.
  • Tony Malaby Trio: Alive in Brooklyn Vol. 2. Satana Records SAT68802. 25/07/06. This trio features the great drummer Tom Rainey as well as a seldom heard instrument, the Würlitzer el piano, under control of Angelica Sanchez. The leader is heard on tenor and sopran sax. The music could be described as highly coloured modern improvised chamber music, intelligently driven by intuition and lyricism.
  • Ahmad Mansour: “Short Cuts”. Open Sky Records (OPE 89022). 9th album for this american-iranian guitarist sided by a Norwegian rhythm section and still keeping up crafting a highly personal musical style which crosses any border (jazz, rock, new music, ethnic …). A challenging record calling for a variety of instrumental colours and techniques. Ahmad Mansour: guitar, Terje Gewelt: bass, Erik Smith: drums.
  • Charlie Mariano "Frontier Traffic" (Konnex KCD 5110). A new recording by the ever young (soon 80) Charlie Mariano in company of the switz drummer Daniel Humair and the bass player Ali Haurand. An ambitious mix of authority, virtuosity and inspiration, a very emotional discourse and a rare quality in "finesse".
  • Issued on CD for the first time ever, Charlie Mariano's "Reflections" goes back to 74, was recorded in finland and awarded 5 stars in Down Beat on June 15, 1978. Released by Whatmusic.
  • Denman Maroney: Fluxations. A virtuoso of hyper-piano (playing with the left hand while the right works inside the piano), Denman has around him experienced and fitting partners like Ned Rothenberg or Mark Dresser, just to name a few.
  • The South-African pianist and leader of the legendary band The Blue Notes makes again the actuality with a few exciting reissues!
    - Chris Mcgregor Septet: Up To Earth. Fledg'ling Records (FLD 3069). Oct. 08. Unbelievable to think that with people such as trumpetist Mongezi Feza, British reedman John Surman, saxophonists Dudu Pukwana and Evan Parker and the rhythm section (see below), the test pressings of this session would remain on the shelves for nearly 40 years!
    - Chris Mcgregor Trio: Our Prayer. Fledg'ling Records (FLD 3070). Oct. 08. Presented as a cardboard digipack and remastered from the original master tapes, this is the forgotten second part of the "Up To Earth" session from 1969, featuring drummer Louis Moholo and bassist Barre Phillips

  • Melbye/Berre/Brötzmann Trio : A Tale of Three Cities. Barefoot Records (bfrec 008). Officially released on April 9th, 2009, this album consists of live recordings from the trio's tour in Denmark and Germany in 2007; it will be the eighth release by the Danish/Norwegian record collective Barefoot Records. The two free-improvising partners, bass player Adam Pultz Melbye (DK) and drummer Håkon Berre (NO), release their debut record with the German free jazz legend Peter Brötzmann!
  • Myra Melford / Tanya Kalmanovitch: Heart Mountain. Perspicacity PR03. Sept. 07. Piano/harmonium & alto/violin duo in a vein not unlike another similar duo, the one with Mark Feldman & Sylvie Courvoisier
  • Harry Miller's Isipingo: Full Steam Ahead! Reel Recordings (RR 012). April 09. After the release on Cuneiform Records, here's another testimony of the South-african coloured outfit ( most of the musicians came from the Brotherhood Of Breath)), taken from recordings in Londonian clubs between 1975 and 1978.
  • Steve Miller Trio: Meets Elton Dean (RR007). Street date: 07/07/08. Reel Recordings. Pianist Steve Miller (1943-1998) formed his trio in the mid-eighties after a lengthy hiatus for technique reevaluation. With young bassist Tony Moore and AMM drummer Eddie Prevost, Steve was now able to improvise freely sans traces of his deep roots in blues and boogie. With time spent in Delivery & Caravan well behind him, Steve's new path lead to a weekly series of concerts billed as "Meetings with Remarkable Saxophonists". At London's Bull & Gate, the diverse talents of Lol Coxhill, Harrison Smith, Elton Dean (1945-2006) and Bobby Wellins rose to meet the spontaneous challenge of improvised music making, with all performances professionally recorded on high speed tape. The special success, in our opinion, was the splendid meeting of altoist Elton Dean and the Steve Miller Trio. Two extended sets of continuous collective improvisation, strongly rooted in the powerful modern jazz aesthetic, comprise this nearly hour long CD. With rare concert photos and notes from Steve complimenting this important document, the Steve Miller Trio "Meets Elton Dean" is indeed a musical meeting to be treasured. Stellar musical meeting of old friends, previously unreleased, makes this compact disc document a worthy companion to last year's successful reissue of the Steve Miller/Lol Coxhill Virgin recordings.


  • Phil Minton / Roger Turner: Ammo (GY 22). Recorded in 1988 at the Festival des Musiques Innovatrices de Saint-Etienne, France. A voice/percussion duo who wasn't afraid of much! A welcome reissue.
  • Moholo / Parker / Pheto / Pheto / Guy Quintet: Bush Fire. Ogun (OG 009). April 09. The reuniting of saxophonist Evan Parker with the South-African drummer Louis Moholo in 1995 in London. Add bassist Barry Guy, Pule and Gibo Pheto (from Moholo's band Viva La Black), respectively on piano and bass).
  • Louis Moholo-Moholo Septet & Octet: Bra Louis - Bra Tebs / Spirits Rejoice. Ogun (OG017-018). Nov. 08. Testimony of the bridge built between English and South-African musicians in the 60's, here's the coupling of two albums on one CD, "Spirits Rejoice" being one of the most important records made by the South-African drummer (and the first with this octet).
  • Mold: Rotten In Rødby. ILK 109CD. 2nd album by the Danish/German band and still going strong! Ideas and sketches have evolved and matured, the band is much present on the European jazz scene, old hits have received a facelift and their collective identity seems to be stronger than ever. Outstanding and refreshing experimental 21st century jazz, peaking, sparkling, (a)musing, spookying .... right now!
  • Mold is a young new german/danish band with a quite interesting instrumentation of two guitarists facing two blow instruments, one of them taking care of saxophone and clarinets, the other one trumpet and fluegelhorn. Their debut album "Republic of …" is out on Quilombo Records. The music is definitely anchored in a contemporary jazz spirit (both written and improvised) but also offers modern chamber like aspects mixed with reflections on the balkan musical traditions and culture or their vision of a certain New York style and sound. Absolutely worth discovering
  • Michael Musillami's Dialect: Fragile Forms. Playscape Recordings PSR030506. Nov. 06. Led by a guitar player, this quartet features the rhythm section of Drew Gress & Matt Wilson and plays a music following the rules of art jazz with poignancy and nerve.
  • New releases from NABEL Records!:
    + Graef / Schippa Moritz: Orlando Frames. Exciting trio instrumentation for an unpredictable collectively improvised journey: sopran, tenor & bass saxes / electric & acoustic guitars, electronics / percussion, sounds.
    + Zinctone:789/578. This group is formed by musicians with different musical backgrounds and the result is music between rock, jazz and avantgarde. Touch guitar and violin are among the tasty instruments to add to guitar, bass and drums. Some vocals too!
    + Liroco: Tre. 3rd album for this trio bass/guitar/sax inspired by Oregon.
  • Nam: Song Of Time / Live At The Vision Festival. This live recording features trumpetist Ahmed Abdullah, baritone saxophonist Alex Harding, drummer Masa Kamaguchi and bassist Jimmy Weinstein.
  • Releases from a new label: No More Records:
    + Anthony Braxton: Solo Piano (standards) 1995 (NO 02). Compositions of Ellington, Mingus, Miles, Monk, Coltrane, Shorter, Waldron. Double CD
    + Rob Brown Quartet : Jumping Off The Page (NO 08). Studio album from 99
    + Frank Lowe & Billy Bang Quartet: One For Jazz (NO 11). Features bassist Edd Schuller
    + Frank Lowe Quintet: Soul Folks (NO 10). Live recording from 98 with trumpetist Jack Walrath, the drummer Ralph Peterson and Elmo Hope’s wife Bertha on piano. Steve Neil is on bass
    + Mat Maneri & Randy Peterson: Light Trigger (NO 09). Studio album from 98.
    + William Parker: Lifting The Sanctions (NO 06). Solo bass album from 98
    + The Pyramid Trio: Ancestral Homeland (NO 07). Roy Campbell formed the trio in 82 and is heard on this album from 98 on trumpet, cornet and horn. At his side are sure values such as bassist William Parker and the lesser known drummer/percussionist Zen Matsuura
    + Matthew Shipp: Symbol Systems (NO 01). Solo piano

  • The Nu Band: The Nu Band Live (KCD 4151). Nov. 2005. Mark Whitecage on sax and clarinet, Joe Fonda on bass, Roy Campbell on trumpet & Lou Grassi on drums are here recorded live in 2003 on the East coast.
  • Mike Osborne Trio: All Night Long. Ogun (OG 029). Backed by the supreme rhythm section of drummer Louis Moholo and bass player Harry Miller and recorded at the Willisau festival, this new release of a session going back to 1976 offers nearly half an hour of unreleased material
  • Mike Osborne: Force Of Nature. Reel Recordings (RR006). Street date: 07/07/08. Mike Osborne (1941-2007) was an alto saxophonist without a peer among his fellow country men, a musician of profound personality with a gift for jazz composition. Mike was first heard in the sixties as a soloist of incendiary character in the Mike Westbrook Concert Band, and his never less than passionate sound was ubiquitous through the heyday of British Jazz in the 70's. He recorded and performed extensively with the leading composers of the era; Chris McGregor, Michael Gibbs, and Barry Guy. With John Surman and Alan Skidmore, "Ozzie" as he was affectionately known by friends, formed the celebrated saxophone trio SOS, while also leading numerous bands under his own name. It's no secret that Mike Osborne suffered schizophrenia and in 1983 circumstances forced his retreat from London, robbing both Mike and his audience of further music making. In 2007 Reel Recordings approached Mike's guardian with recently uncovered Hi-Fidelity recordings of the Osborne Quartet in the early eighties, a hitherto undocumented period. Mike was delighted to hear the music back and blessed "Force of Nature" with deep admiration for his fellow musicians; trumpeter Dave Holdsworth, bassist Marcio Mattos, drummer Brian Abrahams. Together they blend the base ingredients of melody, harmony and rhythm toward boiling points beyond belief. To wit, the quartet's non-stop 42 minute performance before an appreciative audience in Koln, Germany. Included is a live-in-studio set with the muscular rhythm section of the Paul Bridge & Tony Marsh. Together, these reel recordings provide proof positive that music from Mike Osborne truly is a Force of Nature.
  • Jason Palmer: Songbook (Ayva 037). Dec. 07. Recorded in Brooklyn, New York, 2006. Songbook is the recording debut as a leader of trumpeter Jason Palmer. It’s comprised of nine original compositions and includes guest appearances from saxophonists Ravi Coltrane & Greg Osby, along with his current band: Leo Genovese (piano), Matt Brewer (bass), Warren Wolf (vibes), and Tommy Crane (drums). Jason Palmer was featured with those words in the June ‘07 Downbeat issue: "A New Generation of Trumpeters Pave the Way for Jazz's Next Innovations".
  • Parker / Guy / Lytton: Ezafiro. Maya Recordings M0602. 2006 concert in Barcelona by one of the most reknown trios of free improvisation
  • Mario Pavone: Trio Arc. Playscape Recordings (PSR 100807). This is a testimony of the first meeting in 35 years between the bass player and his mentor and master, the Canadian pianist Paul Bley. Completing the trio is drummer Matt Wilson
  • Mario Pavone: Deez To Blues. Playscape Recordings PSR050505. Nov. 06. 17th recording as leader by the bass player and leader of this group who recorded this album after a European and North American tour in May 2005. In the ranks are trumpetist Steven Bernstein, New York drummer Michael Sarin, the phenomenal tubist Howard Johnson, violinist and ex String Trio of New York member Charles Burnham, pianist Peter Madsen.
  • La Pichanga: Arriba De La Pelota. La Pichanga has been performing live in Chile since the dawn of the decenny, and this jazz trio with an unusual line-up (drums, alto sax and bass) has finally released their first CD in 2006. In their debut work they experiment and improvise freely, with elements of downtown-jazz, avant-garde jazz-rock and Chilean music. Saxophonist Edén Carrasco and drummer Cristián Bidart are also part of the aclaimed group Akinetón Retard, which influence is heard in La Pichanga's music, as well as Ornette Coleman, Branford Marsalis and Soft Machine.
  • Zdzislaw Piernik / Piotr Zabrodzki : Namanga. Vivo Records (vivo2008035CD). Unusual Polish Contemporary Music performed by tuba genius Zdzislaw Piernik! Additional musicians: Piotr Zabrodzki (piano, electric piano, doublebass, bass guitar, organ and composition), Hubert Zemler ( percussion, vibraphone), Wojciech Kondrat (violin).
  • Odeon Pope: Plant Life. Porter 4017. Jan. 09. Recorded in 2008 with Sunny Murray on drums and Lee Smith on bass
  • Profound Sound Trio: Opus De Life. Porter Records (POR 4032). June 09. Drummer Andrew Cyrille and bass player Henry Grimes (also playing on violin) were actors of the free explosion in the 60's. They are today here reunited with a new partner joining, British saxophonist (and hurdy gurdy player) Paul Dunmall
  • Dainius Pulauskas: Orca. New album by this Lithuanian pianist and composer. His group is a modern septet composed of: Dainius Pulauskas: piano, synthesizers / Valerijus Ramoska: trumpet, flugelhorn / Rimantas Brazaitis: saxes, Akai EWI / Eugenijus Jonavicius: guitar / Herbie Kopf: bass / Linas Buda: drums / Arkady Gotesman: percussion. Recorded at the National Radio recording studio, Lithuania, 2007.
  • Releases about the Polish musician Vitold Rek
    - Charlie Mariano & Vitold Rek: Opus Absolutum (TMP CD 509). Recorded 23rd & 24th; February 2003 at Loft Studio Cologne, Germany. One of the most beautiful birthday presents received by Charlie Mariano on the occassion of his 80th birthday!
    - John Tchicai, Vitold Rek, Karl Berger: 2 x 2. (TMP CD 505). A diverse program built on the theme of dialogue or should I say duologue?
    - Vitold Rek: Bassifiddle Alla Polacca. (TMP CD 503). The original music and original arrangements for solo double bass and voice. The works include Polish folk music, short jazz essays, and character pieces.
    - Vitold Rek’s Kapela Resoviana: The Polish Folk Explosion. Rec. 2001 (TMP CD 507) feat. Albert Mangelsdorff, Charlie Mariano, John Tchicai, Vitold Rek, Gilbert Matthews. A sensational musical meeting of world great jazz soloists with original Polish folk players (vocals, violins, clarinet, dulcimer).
    - East West Wind: Live at the St. Ingbert Jazz Festival 1997, Germany (TMP CD 501). Around Rek are to be found Adam Pieronczyk (alto, soprano & tenor saxophone) and drummer Jeff Williams as well as Adrian Mears on trombone and didgeridoo. The music of EWW is inspired by and has its roots in Jazz and Global World Music.

  • Howard Riley: Discussions. Jazzprint JPVP137CD. Street date 05/03/07. Discussions was originally released in 1967 and featured drummer Jon Hiseman and bassist Barry Guy alongside Howard Riley. Out of print for some time this re issue has been remastered for this new release
  • Howard Riley & Keith Tippett "Interchange". New LP (180Gr.) release from Turning Point. This live album was recorded in Bern in 1993. The music is completely improvised and reflects the inventiveness and technical ability of each musician.
  • RITI: a label founded in 2002 by guitarist Joe Morris to present his works and music. Here are the releases available today:
    + Steve Lantner Trio: Saying So (RIT 005). Released in 2002, this is a piano/bass/drums trio and yes, Joe Morris plays bass on this one!
    + Daniel Levin Quartet: Don't Go It Alone (RIT 009). Another one with Morris on bass, Levin is on cello, Mat Moran on vibraphone and Dave Ballou plays .... cornet!
    + Stone House: Likewise (RIT 008). Again, Morris on bass while Rob Brown is on sax and flute, Luther Gray on drums.
    + Joe Morris Trio: Age Of Everything (RIT 004). Guitar/bass/drum trio for this one
    + Parker / Morris / Drake: Eloping With The Sun (RIT 007). This record by three reknown players of the free jazz scene has a special ethnic connotation in that Morris is featured on banjo and banjouke (a far cousin of the ukulele), William Parker on sintir, A Moroccan deep low oud used in the Gnawa music. Hamid Drake is on percussion.

  • Pete Robbins: Waits And Measures. Playscape Recordings PSR101204. Nov. 06. 2nd album on own name by this saxophonist and composer from New York whose music is close to the likes of David Binney, Dave Douglas, Tim Berne. The album is recorded and mixed by Jamie Saft!
  • Rockadillo Records: a new exciting label from Finland! Here are some of the releases we spotted for you!
    + KTU: 8 Armed Monkey. ZENCD 2101. Release date: 7.9.2005. (Described further up on this page under progressive)
    + Kimmo Pohjonen & Eric Echampard: Uumen. ZENCD 2100. Release date: 1.4.2005. The accordeonist plays here in duo with a French drummer and percussionist. Starting in 2001 with the goal to make totally improvised music, live on stage with no rehearsals, they have succeeded in their aim to ride the edge of melody, counterpoint, energy and tension as proven by the enthusiastic audiences at each performance, as well as by the satisfaction and exhilaration of the two players. The present CD is a recording from March 2004 at the Amiens International Jazz Festival.
    + Arttu Takalo: Neverstopdreaming. ZENCD 2098. Release date: 23.3.2005. Arttu Takalo (born in 1971) is best known from the fusion jazz-rock band XL as well as the vibraphonist of many rock bands and artists in Finland. This record follows the 2002 release "When I Fall" and both rely on string instrumentation and beautiful, even naivistic melodies. Takalo's music is uncategorizable in essence.
    + Jukka Gustavson: Kiiltomato, Kynttilänliekki, Kuu Ja Aurinko. ZENCD 2096. Release date: 1.3.2005. This is the new record of the "Organ Fusion Band", project led by ex-Wigwam keyboardist and following the 2003 release "Fire On Ice" (also on Rockadillo ZENCD 2082), venturing into jazzier territories than progressive.
    + Lang & Luolajan-Mikkola: Transit. ZENCD 2097. Release date: 2.2.2005. Transit introduces a vibrant violin-vocal axis to the modern jazz scene. This CD is the first jointly made recording of this composer/lyricist duo with accompaniment by three of the finest young Finnish jazz musicians today. It is tempting to bring forth a comparison with the Polish duo Michal Urbaniak / Urszula Dudziak and there are similarities, both in the violin playing, the vocal adventurous scat, interest in similar composers (Wayne Shorter) but differences are also many: their uncompromising work has produced music painted in strong strokes and shades that seem to bewitch the unconscious; along own compositions they also engage in other great jazz composers not so often covered: Eric Dolphy or Mal Waldron, not only musically but also lyrically, in that the beautiful vocalist Reija Lang has created visual and intense original lyrics. A fresh, vital, recommended album!
    + Jartse Tuominen: Time Of Change. ZENCD 2099. Release date: 9.2.2005. Guitar player who started with heavy metal and Texas blues and evolved later into a jazz-rock fusion style.
    + Rinneradio: Pan. ZENCD 2088. Release date: 16.02.2004. RinneRadio came into being in 1988 as three years of participation in Edward Vesala's groundbreaking "Sound & Fury" workshops in Helsinki encouraged reedsman/composer Tapani Rinne to step to the fore as a bandleader. RinneRadio fuses electronic underground beats with progressive jazz. As the rhythms of drum’n’bass and hip hop are fermented with dark dub, lush ambient soundscapes and timeless soprano sax textures, the resulting brew becomes equal parts sexy trance jazz and surreal dance music.

  • Rogue Art is a new French jazz label whose goal is to open a new space for artists with an original, rich and intelligent expression. Here are the first releases:
    + Roscoe Mitchell Quintet: Turn. ROG 003. Sept. 2005. Featuring pianist Craig Taborn
    + Rob Brown Quartet: Radiant Pools. ROG 002. Sept. 2005. The leader is here heard both on alt sax and flute, seconded by trombone and rythm section.
    + Hamid Drake & Bindu: Bindu. Sept. 2005. ROG 001. Four blowers and a drummer defying to conquer new territories

  • Ray Russell: A Table Near The Band. Angel Air (SJPCD258). May 6th, 08. Back in 1988 Ray Russell had assembled one of the bands composer/musicians usually only dream about and over two nights they performed at The Montreux Jazz Festival and became a highlight of that year's festival On returning to the UK the '88' band was enhanced with the addition of saxophones and in 1989 they recorded "A Table Near The Band" which includes a gem written by Russell for the soundtrack of the film "Colorado"
  • Alessandro Scala Quintet: Bossa Mossa (CNCD2009). The group formed in 2003 under the leadership of sax player Alessandro Scala, jazz lover and big "hard bop" fan. The group performed live tracks by Horace Silver, Hank Mobley, Lee Morgan, etc... trying to bring back to life the BLUE NOTE sound. Alessandro Scala then composed original tracks that are now released in this debut album
  • George Schuller Quintet: Round 'Bout Now. Playscape Recordings PSR021302. Nov. 06. This octet wants to pay an homage to the crucial Miles Davis quintet from the period 1967-1969. They do this by covering 3 of his compositions (Sidecar, Circle in the Round et Filles de Kilimanjaro), presented in new personal arrangements. This is sometimes very close to the "Meaning and Mystery" album previously done by trumpetist Dave Douglas. The instrumentation of the band is rich and varied: alto flute, sax, trumpet and horn (played by Ingrid Jensen), vibraphone, kaval, bass clarinet, guitar, accordion, bass, drums and percussion.
  • Karl Seglem is a Norwegian saxophonist and composer who is maybe on the way to break through as one of the new great names inside European jazz. His new record - Urbs - will be released in early 2007. Rhythm, movement, drive and serenity are the key words that could partly describe his music, full of melancholy gliding sounds and sound paintings outlining the scarred silhouette of the Norwegian coast. Of course, another silhouette also very quickly comes to mind in the person of fellow musician Jan Garbarek but Seglem has a strong personal voice and brings more aspects into the music, which Garbarek could have brought himself, hadn't he shifted the course of his musical journey and quest. For now, 2 albums are available: "Reik" and "New North", released by the German label Ozella Music. Strongly recommended!
  • Zbigniew Seifert: Solo Violin. Still a few copies left of this fantastic CD recorded in 1976 by the German Radio. An absolute must for any jazz violinist!
  • Seino / Berthiaume: Arc - Beneath The Surface (VOSS632). Recorded in Kobe in July 2005, this CD presents two experimental guitarists at work!
  • Elliott Sharp: Sharp ? Monk ? Sharp ! Monk ! CFG 001. Nov. 06. A lot of surprises here: Sharp alone on acoustic guitar playing bop standards. Just writing this makes it already look like a puzzle!
  • Some releases from a rather new label: Silta Records!
    - Paolo Lattanzi Group: Night Dancers (SR 0603). 25/08/06. US quintet from Boston with guitar, piano/organ, sax, bass & drums. The music goes from frentic or pulsating to lyrical and leaves us with a feeling of serenity as to the new direction taken by jazz, also in its homeland.
    - Gianni Lenoci / Giorgio Dini / Markus Stockhausen: Ergskkem (SR 0602). 25/08/06. Piano, bass and trumpet in a project deliberately anchored in intuitive improvisations.
    - Giorgio Dini & Carlo Actis Dato: Out! (SR 0401). Carlos Actis, the Italian musical provocator is here heard on sax and bass clarinet in duo with the classically trained bass player Giorgio Dini who today is playing in jazz bands as free-Lance, performing mainstream, Bop, modern and avanguarde jazz in various formats, from duo to big band.
    - Nopop: Sestetto (SR 0501). This Italian sextet could be shortly compared to Carla Bley's band with a somewhat more dramatic touch. The arrangements are refined, the music is fresh and not denying the soil it's coming from
  • Jason Smith with Gary Husband & Dave Carpenter: Tipping Point. Moonjune MJR011. Recorded live at The Jazz Bakery, Los Angeles on May 16, 2006, this album may redefine in some way the role and form of a jazz trio. Flanked by Gary Husband on piano and Fender Rhodes, and Dave Carpenter on acoustic bass, the leader and drummer makes his voice emphatically heard. Through a set of unconventional standards, executed with a deft blend of audacity and authenticity, the musicians unravel meter and melody into a whimsical triple helix of bending, arcing, swooping lines, converging at unexpected junctures that demand both a mastery of technique and a joyous sense of adventure.
  • Sonic Liberation Front: Change Over Time. High Two HT009. This ensemble from Philadelphia, founded by percussionist Kevin Diehl (former pupil of drummer Sunny Murray), practices a detonating mix of free, Afro Cuban rhythms and electro jazz. The newcomer here is saxophonist Julian Pressley, previously partner of both Illinois Jacquet & Odeon Pope
  • Speeq: Or - Live In Strasbourg. RN 13. This trio of European punk-jazz was founded by the Danish guitarist Hasse Poulsen and has in its ranks bassist Luc Ex and the British drummer Mark Sanders. This time is added the crystaline voice of the Norwegian siren Sidsel Endresen, known for her collaboration works with pianist Bugge Wesseltoft. Recorded at the Strasbourg jazz festival in 2006.
  • Dave Stapleton Quintet : The House Always Wins. Red Eye Music (Redeye 010). Release Date: 10th September 2007. This is Stapleton’s fourth album as leader. The Cardiff-based pianist-composer (and owner of the label) is winning a wider reputation, probably due to the strength and virility of his playing, matched by an innate capacity for tenderness and reflection. As a composer, he draws upon a formidable grasp of Jazz, Classical and World styles, yet transforms these raw materials into something richly personal. With the exceptional talents of Paula Gardiner on bass and Elliot Bennetton drums, this is an album of powerful, driving rhythms and lingering melodic hooks. With the highly individualistic sound of Jonny Bruce on trumpet and impressive multi-instrumentalist Ben Waghorn on reeds, Stapleton has put together a band of high-rollers and high stakes winners.
  • Markus Stauss: Neolithicum. Fazzul FM 0819. The saxophonist from the Swiss group Ulterior Lux presents here his most recent project: Bass Saxophone Solo & Extras. Many influences are to be found here, starting with the "Stauss prog-jazz/rock side" plus the actual classical avant-garde chambermusic just like Berio, Nono, Cage, Reich and others.
  • The US label Art of Life Records has just released a previously unreleased recording by three legendary British musicians: bassist Danny Thompson (Pentangle, John Martyn), guitarist Allan Holdsworth (Igginbottom, Nucleus, Tempest, Soft Machine, Gong, Bruford, U.K., Tony Williams New Lifetime) and drummer John Stevens (Spontaneous Music Ensemble, Derek Bailey). Recorded at Island Studios in London, on September 4th & 5th, 1978, "Propensity" includes two extended length group improvised tracks which prominently feature guitarist Allan Holdsworth on electric guitar ("It Could Have Been Mono") as well as 12-string acoustic guitar ("Jools Toon"). Other than the brief track, "Gone Sailing", from the '75 album "Bundles" by Soft Machine , this is the only known recording of Holdsworth soloing on a 12-string acoustic guitar! All tracks have been professionally mastered using 24-bit digital technology.
  • John Stevens / Evan Parker: Corner to Corner / The Longest Night. Ogun (OG 022-023). Nov. 08. "The Longest Night" was recorded by the duo on December 21th, 1976 (hence the title), while "Corner To Corner" is some kind of post echo from 1993 with the same duo, one year before the drummer's trespassing. This double CD, totalizing about two and a half hours of music, synthetizes the best of what the British improvised music had to offer in so many years of adventure!
  • The Stone Quartet: DMG @ The Stone / Vol 1 (DMG 721). March 09. Invited by the downtown Music Gallery, bassist Joëlle Léandre came at the end of 2006 to improvise on the Stone stage in New York, reunited with her American partners, pianist Marilyn Crispell, trumpetist Roy Campbell Jr. and viola player Mat Maneri. So here's a drumless quartet, also offering all possible undercombinations, from solo to trios
  • Tamma. A very remarkable night at the Molde International Jazz Festival in 1984! The Norwegian / Gambian group «Tamma» teamed up with legendary trumpet player Don Cherry and percussionist Ed Blackwell, resulting in a band communicating strong and extraordinary ideas of energy and rhythm. This percussion-based album was for a long time out of print, but is now again available. Tamma was Erik Balke: sax | Per Jørgensen: trumpet | Sveingung Hovensjø: bass | Finn Sletten: perc. | Miki N'Doye: perc. Released on the Norwegian label Curling Legs
  • Ximo Tébar: Celebrating Erik Satie. Xàvia Jazz 007. Sept. 09. Each year, the Xàvia Jazz Festival selects a musician based in the region of Valencia to carry out a special musical project, which is then recorded for release. This CD contains the music premiered by Ximo Tébar during the 8th edition of the festival. Without sacrificing its distinctive style, which combines the traditional language of jazz with musical molds own contemporary jazz, and open to influences from other genres such as Flamenco, the great jazz guitarist Ximo Tébar has decided to pay tribute to the figure of a musician unclassifiable, the French Erik Satie. Among the many players contributing, let's note trombonist Robin Eubanks.
  • Jacques Thollot: Cinq Hops. Orchestra ORK007. Nov. 06. A welcome CD release of this album from 1978, the 4th done by the drummer who was THE free jazz French drummer in the late 60's. Libertarian, this album presents a musical universe mixing jazz-rock (Weather Report), Classical (Poulenc, Debussy), RIO (Art Bears, John Greaves). Some of the best French jazz musicians will be found here as well like the late pianist Michel Graillier, saxophonist, educator and ex ONJ (Orchestre National de Jazz, the French stately financed jazz big band) leader François Jeanneau, bass player Jean-Paul Celea, keyboardist and ECM recording artist François Couturier
  • Tiny Bell Trio: Live In Europe. AJ 126. Nov. 06. Extracted from their European tour of 1996, the music offered here revisits the Eastern European folklores, being nevertheless firmly anchored in the North American jazz tradition. Led by trumpetist Dave Douglas, this unusual bass-less trio counts the great drummer Jim Black and guitarist Brad Schoeppach
  • Keith Tippett Septet: A Loose Kite In A Gentle Wind Floating With Only My Will... Ogun (OG030). 2009. Reissue of this milestone album on the British label Ogun, a concert recorded in 1984 in Exeter and featuring long time musical partners of Tippett, from Soft Machine's Elton Dean to trumpetist Mark Charig or trombonist Nick Evans and more, all reputed musicians from the British jazz scene
  • Keith Tippett Tapestry Orchestra: First Weaving (Red Eye Music). Recording from the 1998 Le Mans Jazz Festival; a gigantic session which became an underground classic despite never being commercially available. Originally commissioned by the BBC it stayed under wraps because the intention was to produce a studio recording for which the funding never materialised. The Tapestry Orchestra gathers musicians who were there right at the beginning in Centipede – among them Larry Stabbins, Louis Moholo, Mark Charig, Paul Rutherford, Dave Amis, Julie Tippetts, Maggie Nicols and the late Elton Dean. First Weaving unites some of the most important innovators on the British scene, playing in a setting well beyond national boundaries. It has taken nine years for this brilliant performance to be heard on this 2CD!
  • Togander, Bárbara : Lovemanual (2007)- Argentina - {Jazz / Improvisation / Avant-Garde}
  • Jaime Torres - Minino Garay - Magic Malik : Altiplano. Random Records RR 890. I'm sorry that I missed this record at that time since it is from 2008! Jaime Torres is a world-renowned charango player. He is accompanied this time around by Minino Garay (percussions) and Magic Malik (French flute player of African origin). What they have come up with is a successful combination of Traditional Andean Music with Contemporary Jazz.
  • Tous Dehors: Happy Birthday (LD5). April 09. 15 years after its creation, the big band led by French Laurent Dehors hasn't yet integrated the word moderation to their glossary. Still eager to achieve a synthesis between academic and popular jazz, they cast themselves with a great orchestral care in styles as various as jazz or rock, contemporary or traditional musics, from a menuet to bulgo funk!
  • Tsahar / Nakatani / Hernandez / Cook / Ljova / Chan: Solitude. Hopscotch HOP 36. Oct. 09. Titled after the composition of Duke Ellington, this album focuses on music composed by the Israelian and often free jazz inspired saxophonist Assif Tsahar. He meets here the Japanese drummer Tatsuya Nakatani and a classical string quartet
  • Bleu Regard Records have released two new albums by Charles Tyler - Live at Sweet Basil Volume 1 & 2, featuring Roy Campbell on trumpet, Wilber Morris on double bass, Curtis Clark on piano, Richard Dunbar on French horn and John Bestch on drums.
  • Charles Tyler Ensemble: Live At Sweet Basil Vol 1 & 2 (CT 1964 & 1965). Concert from March 12, 1984. The first volume focuses on personal compositions while the second is grasping Monk's compositions. The rhythm section of the ensemble consists of bassist Wilber Morris and drummer John Betsch. Roy Campbell is on trumpet, Richard Dunbar plays horn and pianist Curtis clark completes the band.
  • Kazutoki Umezu / Vladimir Volkov: Play Time. Long Arms LA 04062. Oct. 06. A living legend of Nippon jazz, Umezu is known in the West for the cult records he did on Moers Music and at the Knitting Factory. He's back here in duo with a Russian bassist, recorded in September 2003
  • Umlaut: Vol.2. (FOR 5/1). 2009. This trio formed in 2005 by drummer Emmanuel Scarpa with Fred Escoffier (bass keyboard and Nord Lead) and guitarist Fred Poncet is here extended by the addition of players from another trio featuring Scarpa: Antonin Rayon (Hammond and clavinet) and guitarist Marc Ducret. Wild energy, tight balance between the written and the improvised, great interplay by musicians who know each other very well, an original signature that shouldn't leave anyone careless!
  • Ursus Minor: Coup De Sang (Original Soundtrack of the film by Jean Marboeuf). ZOG 4. Jan. 07. The music of this film has been realised in real time in front of the screen. Ursus Minor is the group led by keyboardist Tony Hymas and featuring the American guitarist Jef Lee Johnson, saxophonist François Corneloup and drummer Stokley Williams
  • Vandermark 5: Annular Gift. Not Two Records MW825-2. 2009. 2 blowers, cello (Fred Lonberg-Holm), bass and drums.
  • Jasper van’t Hof / Fredy Studer : Pangramm (264-0808). Voted a decade ago as Europe's best keyboard player, Jasper Van't Hof has hauled his many keyboards out of the garage. These include the Korg M1, Kawai CD5, Roland M-CD1, Korg P3+SDD and the DRV 2000 among others - a true historic collection! Out of love for experimentation, beyond any calculated music-making, he's joined with Swiss drummer Fredy Studer to create this courageous, joyously experimental CD!
  • Csaba Vedres & Kairosz Kvartet: Give My Regards to Chick Corea - Children's Songs Variations. BGCD186. The pianist and founding member of the Hungarian band After Crying rearranges here the famous songs, this time not for piano alone but also for string quartet. As he puts it himself: "I could not help thinking that these short movements are so diversified and colourful that parts of them could become chamber music ... I do not want to say that they are not perfect as they are. But they are so rich in ideas that certain themes are worth extending, re-interpreting and re-thinking. It was a game - a liberated and joyful game."
  • Csaba Vedres & Kairosz Kvartett: Áldott Idö (Blessed Time). BGCD 176. Vedres was the first pianist in the Hungarian progressive group After Crying. With Kairosz, his goal is to perform accessible contemporary classical music. The long-term goal of Kairosz is to occupy a mid-point position in the musical life, similarly to the Brodsky or Kronos Quartets. The music is based on the concept of Kairos, the symbol of “proper time” created by God. The point here is time, our life, the recognized or missed occasions; the life-influencing minutes between “carpe diem” and “the hour of our death".
  • Frédéric Viale: Lames Latines. Imago IMG 003. Oct. 09. This album is born from the meeting of accordeonist Frédéric Viale with Hermeto's drummer and percussionist Marcio Villa Bahia. 2nd album in own name and recorded in 2008, this is an explosion of rhythms and colours, also featuring among other guitarist Jean-Marie Ecay
  • Miroslav Vitous: Remembering Weather Report. ECM 2073. 2009. Vitous, a founding member of Weather Report, offers here a kind of tribute, based on the formative years of the legendary band but still penned by himself. An obvious musical empathy with drummer Gerald Cleaver, the presence on bass clarinet of the much personal French musician Michel Portal, inspired soli by the Swiss trumpetist Franco Ambrosetti or saxophonist Gary Campbell, are the necessary ingredients for recalling the spirits of Wayne Shorter but also Ornette Coleman and the classical composer Antonín Dvorák.
  • Mal Waldron Quartet: From Dark Into The Light. Tutu CD 888220. Recorded live at Essen and Göppingen, Germany in 1992 and 1994, the quartet featured Nicola Simion with that unmistakeable influence of his Transylvanian horn sound on the tenor saxophone, Waldron's long time associate, bassist Ed Schuller and drummer Victor Jones.
  • The Wrong Object: Stories From The Shed. Moonjune Recordings (MJR018). Belgian heavy avant-prog-jazz-rock combo The Wrong Object returns with a brand new studio release of their trademark instrumentation and sonic landscapes. Laden with a full load of heavy guitar riffs, extravagant jazz themes and electronic sounds, this CD marks a return to the rockier and densely overdriven stance that characterized the band’s earlier productions. The sheer sonic texture of this album is driven by a combination of tight prog-rock sequences alternating with more open, freely improvised material. This explosive package consists of a solid, pulsing rhythm section capable of performing with versatility in any situation, aggressive guitar riffs and solos, unusual guitar-synth soundscapes, and fuzz bass guitar laced with a fiery horn duet. With influences ranging from Zappa's whimsical complexities to Squarepusher’s glitchy electronics, from Soft Machine and electric Miles to Stravinsky and Béla Bartok, "Stories from the Shed" will surprise prog-rock fans and modern electric jazz aficionados alike with its genre-defying compositions, eclectic jam improvisations and intricate arrangements.

  • Otomo Yoshihide's New Jazz Orchestra: Live Vol 1 Series Circuit & Live Vol 2 Parallel Circuit. Doubt Music (dmf 115-116 & dmf 117-118). Those two double CDs are live recordings from concerts given in 2006 in Japan and Germany. They will present you a modern and avantgardistic orchestra at the top of its form
  • Otomo Yoshihide's New Jazz Orchestra: ONJO. Doubt Music (dmf 102). This big band composed of European and Japanese musicians is not afraid of taking risks. In fact this their trade mark! The album offers own compositions by the leader, covers by Jim O'Rourke or, taken from the jazz repertory, compositions by Ornette Coleman & Charles Mingus
  • Zao Family: S/T. Cristal Records CRCDM0405. 2005. Faton Cahen & Yochk'o Seffer formed this septet in 2005 with long time partner, Gong and Zao member François Causse on percussions plus a string quartet. This studio recording adds the presence of an extra persussionist, the great Mino Cinelu (Weather Report, Miles Davis). The name Zao Family is a cue to send us back to the album Shekina, made in the 70's with Zao and already a string quartet. A perfect synthesis between jazz and contemporary music!

    • ACT MUSIC .... ACT MUSIC .... ACT MUSIC .... ACT MUSIC .... ACT MUSIC ....

  • Vocal jazz releases on the German label ACT:

    + Rigmor Gustafsson - Celebrating Michel Legrand: On My Way To You (ACT 9710-2). 27/01/06. The Swedish lady sings here the songs of film soundtracks (The Thomas Crowne Affair, Les Demoiselles de Rochefort, Les Parapluies de Cherbourg, etc...), songs all composed by the French jazz musician Michel Legrand. Some special guests are invited to join and add their personality on those renditions.
    + Julia Hülsmann Trio with Roger Cicero: Good Morning Midnight (ACT 9209-2). 27/01/06. Julia Hülsmann has picked ten poems from the enormously rich body of Dickinson’s work for “Good Morning Midnight“. Her music intuitively absorbs what is hinted at in the verses (the vocals are due to Roger Cicero). An unexpected dimension is opened by the subtle electronica provided by Tilman Ehrhorn. A new colour in Julia's work, as are the warm horn arrangements on “Will There Really Be a Morning” and “Riverman”, that are reminiscent of Gil Evans.
    + Solveig Slettahjell Slow Motion Quintet: Pixiedust (ACT 9208-2). 27/01/06. Another singer coming from Norway and her debut album for ACT. “Pixiedust” is an album of both quiet flowing sounds and emotions. The range of sounds spans interpretations of ballads through to excursions into the avant-garde, which demonstrate the influence of her mentor and former teacher, Sidsel Endresen.
    + Nils Landgren: Sentimental Journey (ACT 9802-2). October 2005. More known for his funky work, the trombonist decided here to investigate "The Great American Songbook" and sing ballads made famous by so many jazz women. This is not an easy task and he's helped here by other Swedish notabilities like pianist Anders Widmark or the wonderful Flesh Quartet. There are also a few female vocal guest performances as well as special guests like Esbjörn Svensson (from the much acclaimed trio EST) on Fender Rhodes.
    + Muriel Zoe : Neon Blue (ACT 9704-2). Release Date: 25. April 2005. 2nd album for ACT, this time with a much more diversified choice of songs: jazz standards, Beatles tunes, country, Steely Dan's hit tune "Rikki Don't Lose That Number" and own compositions. + Let's not forget Magic Voices II (ACT 9706-2, released 28/03/05) from their voice series. This time on the program: Jamie Cullum / Viktoria Tolstoy / Norah Jones / Cassandra Wilsson / Nils Landgren / Stacey Kent / Rebekka Bakken / Mark Murphy / Sidsel Endresen / Rigmor Gustafsson / Cæcilie Norby a.o.
  • Other jazz releases from the same label:

    + Nguyên Lê Duos with Paolo Fresu & Dhafer Youssef: Homescape. ACT 9444-2. Release date: 24/03/06. Even in the adventurous territory of jazz, this French-Vietnamese musician stands out as a unique explorer of sounds. His new CD will surprise even those who believe themselves to be, by now, familiar with the diversity of his musical output. Lê’s approach to each duo differed depending on his partner. With Paolu Fresu he essentially had a totally open conception: improvisation with no composed material (although there are exceptions). Nguyên and Dhafer collaborated on the music for their duo, or adapted compositions of Youssef’s, lending them a new structure through the process of improvisation. There is also some electronic processing and all the work was done in Lê's home but everything integrates organically on this CD. The music sounds as if the electronic processing had been sensed all along during the playing, as an anticipated electronic intensification. It never seems out of place. Nguyên Lê’s “chamber” music has a compelling inner logic - and convincing internal vigour.
    + Wolfgang Haffner feat. Nils Landgren and Lars Danielsson: Shapes. ACT 9603-2. Release date: 26/05/06. Haffner’s idea behind “Shapes“ was to create, in his words, “an album with lots of air, lots of space“. All the compositions are by Haffner himself. They show his affinity for melodies that linger. The themes are lyrical and accessible. At times a bass hook will implant itself in the listener’s mind and feet. Keyboards and programming are an integral part of the album and lend it an aura that is strongly characterized by electronics. But despite this, the music retains a directness and vitality.
    + Alboran Trio: Meltemi. ACT 9448-2. Release date: 23/06/06. Alboran is the entrance to the Mediterranean, it is the waterway that joins the African and European continents. The Alboran Trio is a significant encounter between three individuals, each with their own approach to improvised music, three musicians who breathe rhythm, three artists, who are constantly searching for a new sound and approach to playing. The programme is built around original compositions by the pianist Paolo Paliaga, helped by Dino Contenti on acoustic bass and Gigi Biolcati on drums.
    + Geir Lysne Listening Ensemble : Boahjenásti – The North Star (ACT 9441-2). 27/01/06. Refined big band compositions and Nordic throat singing
    + Ulf Wakenius with Lars Danielsson and Morten Lund: Notes from the Heart (ACT 9435-2). 28/10/05. Recorded, mixed and mastered by Jan Erik Kongshaug on 21+22/05/2005 at the glorious Rainbow Studios, Oslo, Norway. The Swedish guitarist, here with another Swede (on bass, cello and piano) and the raising star, Danish drummer Morten Lund, perform the music of Keith Jarrett.
    + Nils Landgren & Joe Sample: Creole Love Call (ACT 9707-2). 28/10/05. This is another challenge for the Swedish trombonist. The band which Nils and Joe specially put together for this album mainly consists of musicians from New Orleans. With a famous exception: the pop and soul star Ray Parker Jr., especially known for the title song for the film "Ghostbusters" (1984). Here he plays guitar and duets with Nils Landgren on the Otis Redding hit "Dock Of The Bay". Charmaine Neville, a member of the famous Neville Brothers clan, appears as "special guest", interpreting with Nils Landgren Allen Toussaint's classic "With You In Mind", the lyrics of which are written by her uncle Aaron Neville.
    + ElbtonalPercussion : Four Elements (ACT 9438-2). 29/08/05. 2nd album by this group of classically-trained percussionists capable of using loops and other electronic effects, treading a fine path which balances between acoustic and electronic, between rhythmic parts and melodies. The theme this time is: the 4 elements. Electronics are not as dominant as on their ACT debut.
  • ACT is also diversifying its products line by launching several series. One of them is consecrated to solo piano, called piano works. 4 volumes until now, with carte blanche chronologically given to:
    + ACT 9749-2 Brad Mehldau, Esbjörn Svensson, Eric Watson, Michael Wollny, a.o. PIANO WORKS: Romantic Freedom. Release date: 30. 09. 2005.
    + ACT 9750-2 Joachim Kühn PIANO WORKS I: Allegro Vivace. Release date: 30. 09. 2005
    + ACT 9751-2 George Gruntz PIANO WORKS II: Ringing The Luminator. Release date: 30. 09. 2005
    + ACT 9752-2 Kevin Hays PIANO WORKS III: Open Range. Release date: 30. 09. 2005
    + ACT 9753-2 Ramon Valle PIANO WORKS IV: Memorias. Release date: 30. 09. 2005

    The second line is called Young German Jazz and will in time presents various projects from artists of this country.
  • Recent releases from ACT Records, Germany:
    27/10/03 Ramón Valle: No Escape. Trio of Cuban musicians led by a pianist and playing what they call new Cuban jazz, for them widely different from Latin jazz.
    26/01/04 Viktoria Tolstoy: Shining On You. 11 originals & music written especially for her by none other than Esbjörn Svensson. ACT 9701-2
    26/01/04 Michael Riessler & Singer Pur with Vincent Courtois: Ahi Vita. Laments from the renaissance and early baroque eras played by a vocal ensemble (SingerPur) known for performing highly entertaining a cappella programmes from medieval to contemporary music are here placed oppposite originals by Riessler. ACT 9417-2
    23/02/04 Julia Hülsmann Trio & Anna Lauvergnac: Come Closer. Chamber jazz with Rhodes but getting down and dirty and with a biting heartfelt mockery is the approach. ACT 9702-2
    25/03/04 Structure: A super group made of Terri Lyne Carrington, Greg Osby, Adam Rogers & Jimmy Haslip. A tight and interlocking ensemble too create a greater dynamism. ACT 9427-2
  • The franco-vietnamese guitarist Nguyên Lê has released a tribute to Jimi Hendrix on the german label ACT and this is a collaboration work with drummer Teri Lyne Carrington.

    • ALTRI SUONI .... ALTRI SUONI .... ALTRI SUONI .... ALTRI SUONI ....

  • Fanny Anderegg Quartet: Le 8ème Jour (AS242). 2007. The vocalist is back from her many journeys and presents us with her thoughts in form of songs, backed by piano, bass and drums. This is her 2nd effort and the tracks resolve simply around the many encounters, the landscapes and other impressions, building discreetly a soft and heartfelt musical universe around her fragile voice that can pierce frozen spirits
  • Aphid: Aphid (AS-258). Debut album by a promising new band from New Zealand with guitarist Nick Broadhurst. At times the music sounds like a jazz album and often it sounds like a prog-rock or post-rock album. The hard–hitting time signature grooves and atmospheric guitar riffs help push the music into this category. The music contains a consistent atmosphere and mood throughout the album both with rock-like outbursts and quieter melodic moments.
  • Caryl Baker Quartet: Odessa (AS-256). 2008. 8 original compositions played by piano, trumpet, bass and drums in a combination of lyricism, rhythmical energy, restraint and exuberance
  • Bconnected: Tabula Rasa. 2007. Altrisuoni AS234. In 1994, the guitarist Eugène Montenero forms the group Bconnected, jazz with electric and coppered sounds, in a subtle blend of energy and expression. He was very quickly joined by talented musicians coming from different horizons, each one bringing, with the passing of years, its personal experiment and its color. 12 years later, the group has come to full maturity with Stephan Péchoux on drums, Marco Giovannetti on electric bass, Pascal Walpen on trumpet, Xavier Nussbaum on tenor and soprano saxophone, Dominique Favre on piano and keyboards, Jean-Daniel "Cicco" Ciccone on percussions and samples and the group leader, Eugene Montenero on guitars.
  • Beuret / Kock / Vonlanthen: Synopsis (AS-261). This trio exists since 2006 and they probably will invite themselves into your imagination. The Swiss trombonist Denis Beuret and bass clarinetist Hans Koch both deal with electronics as well. Together with the Belgian electric guitarist Vinz Vonlanthen, they will carry you in sonic explorations where electro-acoustic, contemporary classic and avant garde jazz converge
  • Silvano Borzacchiello Quintet: Costalta (AS226). 2nd release by this formation but the drummer and leader has a long experience behind him with 15 CD releases. the present album will testify that he has matured as a musician but also as composer and arranger. Trumpet, sax and piano form the front line of this quintet, the piano chair being occupied by another long time Altrisuoni artist: Jean-Christophe Cholet
  • Box: Bruch (AS245). Powerful combo with trumpet upfront backed by a piano-keyboards + bass & drums rhythm section. They are actively engaged in breakbeats, trip-hop, drum'n'bass, melted into a jazz universe. So if dancefloor beats, acid Fender Rhodes, elastic bass lines and tight drumming are giving you goose skin, this CD is no doubt for you!
  • Cholet / Kanzig / Papaux Trio: Under The Whale. Altrisuoni AS 189. Jan. 2006. 2nd album by this trio of contemporary European jazz of a very high technical level
  • Cholet / Koenzig / Papaux Trio: Autumn Circle. Piano/bass/drums trio playing a music either totally improvised or inherited from the european musical culture.
  • La Compagnie de la Coquille: Les Jazzventures de Pinocchio. 2007. Altrisuoni AS229. As implied by the title, this is a journey into the universe of the small boy with the long nose, where the music tells us the story, the drawings illustrate it, and the text marks it out (contained in a beautiful 48-page color booklet). The “Jazzventures of Pinocchio” is a jazz record full of energy, nostalgia and tenderness for the grown-ups, but also a fantastic story superbly illustrated, where the smaller ones may find an original way towards the discovery of musical tones and colours and towards improvisation and instrumental narration ... (for aged 3 and older).
  • Cowboys From Hell: Monster Rodeo. 2007. Altrisuoni AS235. This trio with sax in front, backed by drums and bass, is influenced as well by Frank Zappa as by rock groups like Massive Attack or Rage Against The Machine. Audacious arrangements are put in place to blow away ceilings and roofs - rough play is the programme! Funk grooves steam under an endless sky of oscillating soundscapes, the spirits rock, the Cowboys cheer ....
  • Kaspar Ewalds & Exorbitantes Kabinett: Räuber. This is a 15 piece big band of young swiss musicians marvellously combining funk, jazz rock and new musics. Interesting presentation of the CD too: it opens like a little book.
  • FM Trio: Moment (AS243). Here's a piano, bass, drums trio. The music is based on original compositions and collective interaction
  • FM Trio: Moment (AS-243). 2007. Debut album by this piano trio led by Swiss pianist and composer Fabian Mueller, here with Kaspar Von Grünigen on bass and Fabian Buergi on drums.
  • Format A'3: Pirate. Altrisuoni AS214. 2006. With « Pirate », 4th album of the French-speaking Swiss trio, Format A’3 broadens its sound landscape through the integration into its classic piano, double bass, drums formula of other instruments such as Fender Rhodes electric piano, electric bass, vintage drum machines and analog synthesisers. Most of the new material has been arranged spontaneously during recording, every part being played live without any cuts or overdubs.
  • Renata Friederich Close Up: Lonely Woman. Altrisuoni AS 202. New record by this trio vocal/piano/bass who brings us in an intimate and sensual world inspired by paintings (Picasso, Vermeer) and poems.
  • Gekko: Moonlight Mask (AS240). The music of this young Swiss quartet from Geneva borders contemporary jazz, post rock and improvised music as well as early 20th Century French classical music (check out the arrangement of Gabriel Fauré's "Élégie"!). The sound is very modern with various recording techniques used to allow for maximum freedom with harmony, textures and dynamics. Most of the musicians are doubling on other instruments, contributing to a vry rich sound palette: trumpet, trombone, guitars, acoustic and el bass, drums and percussions, plenty of keyboards (Rhodes, Moog) and MIDI synths.
  • Giulio Granati Quartet: In The Mood. Piano, sax, bass & drums for a warm and very melodic music.
  • Das Hammerklavier Trio: "Now I Know Who Shot J.F.K. (AS233). The group's name is a German translation for grand piano and in fact the trio is also a young German band from Hamburg. Their music is strongly based on the jazz heritage of Monk & Coltrane but they also travel into other non-jazz styles including classical, funk, oriental, African. Often using simply structured tunes, they improvise freely on them and move forward with a great attention to each other, letting the music grow into a complex multi part format
  • François Ingold Trio: Fat Tree. 2007. Altrisuoni AS236. Led by the pianist, the trio chose to bring the music to life by using some traditional melodies (Outoua d´una Tsanhon de Bovet), some modern grooves (Alligator Dance) and above all, energy to spare. Sometimes lyrical (La Valse d´Oscar), sometimes rock´n´roll (Seven Nation Army), sometimes baroque (Counterparts) or sometimes drifty (Lust For Life), the trio eclectically skims through contemporary music rendering it neither annoying, nor complicated, but simply playing for the delight of the ears and the heart.
  • Inside Out: Soleil. Swiss group playing acoustic new jazz. Flutes & guitars + bass & dms.
  • Jalazz: Between Spaces. 2007. Altrisuoni AS232. Formed in 2003, this quartet includes musicians who all compose pieces for the band and have each their own very individual style. Thus the broad repertoire in which one finds influences of impressionism, bebop, hardbop, free-jazz and afrocuban rhythms in lively improvisations melt to a unity.
  • Marcos Jimenez: I Thought About You (AS-244). 2007. Jazz standards interpreted on solo piano with a classic but at times modern approach as well as a very personal and sensitive touch relying on the interplay of an endless movement of the two hands, fully using the entire register of the piano
  • Heiri Känzig: Acoustic Strings. 2007. Altrisuoni AS220. The leader and bass player has spent many years with the Vienna Art Orchestra and with the pianist and Blue Note artist Thierry Lang. He belongs today to the "élite" of European bass players. In this project he has allied himself with a wonderful team including the French violinist and ECM recording artistDominique Pifarély, the Irish guitarist and also ECM artist Christy Doran and country fellowman and drummer Fabian Kurati. The group not only plays a jazz that is faithful to the traditional European sound, but that also implements the American jazz spirit and groove.
  • Marco Käppeli & The Even Odds: Prisoner of Time. Altri Suoni AS197. 2006. This formation with both acoustic and electric bass offers a jazz journey going through swing, bebop, free and fusion, with spicy grooves and a good dose of irony. Jürg Wickihalder is the reedman of the group.
  • Markus Lauterburg: Mumur (AS-254). 2008. Roaming through the areas of free composition set against the writing of drummer and leader Markus Lauterburg, this album cultivates contrasts (written/improvised, dialog/duel), complexity, impulsivity, directness, lively carried by 5 musicians technically at ease, be it on soprano sax, guitar, cello, bass and drums
  • Olivier Le Goas Quartet: Gravitation. Altrisuoni 2006 (AS204). Here is a drummer with a refined sense of colours and dynamics, an airy but precise playing with impeccable pulse, a real talent of sound organization. To match those qualities he is supported by a stellar team: Ralph Alessi: trumpet, Drew Gress: double bass and John Abercrombie: guitar
  • Lars Lindvall Tentet: 1-10. No less than 6 blowers for this typical contemporary jazz.
  • Lola De Valence: Eaux Troubles. 2007. Altrisuoni AS238. Quartet from Lausanne in Switzerland, born in 2003 at the initiative of its youngest member, drummer Ivan Gaillard. The music is some ethnic jazz influenced both by North Africa (Marocco, Egypt) and the hispanic culture (flamenco, tango), performed on acoustic guitar, bandoneon, bass and drums.
  • Maurice Magnony: Facing The Wall. An uncommon research in improvisation for a spontaneous fluid music. Magnony is assisted by Fredy Studer and Nicolas Sordet on computer.
  • Mats Up: In the Beginning. Septet composed of the best young Swiss talents
  • Andreas Meili's KNOM: Cuckoo Nutz (AS252). 2008. The leader and pianist composed all the pieces, a fresh display of contemporary jazz filled with intimacy or energetic eruptions of lyrical content. Knom is a band formed in 2004 and has today gained a controlled musical freedom while still retaining a youthful unconcern and "joie de vivre"
  • New Samba Jazz: S/T. Altri Suoni AS206. 2006. This young trio mixes the Brazilian musical culture and tradition with jazz improvisation, with a strong focus on high energy and rhythmic perfection. Erik Escobar is on keyboards, while Igor & Chico Willcox complete the trio, respectively on drums and bass.
  • Giancarlo Nicolai: La Sorvegliante Del Tempo. 2007. Altrisuoni AS227. This album marks the completion of a trilogy; the band of five guitarists follows on the idea of a guitar orchestra, one that is no longer a mass orchestra but an ensemble of solo players of the same instruments. There is electric as well as acoustic bass, the latter being played by the Polish musician Vitold Rek. Facing the 5 guitars and the only blower in the band, we'll find the great John Tchicai, here on tenor sax and bass clarinet.
  • No Square: Le Pendu (AS-259). With this 7th album, the quartet shows one more time their maturity and brings 8 brand new compositions of a well crafted electric jazz.
  • No Square: Double Album Studio & Live. Altrisuoni AS182. Street date: 21/02/06. 6th album by the Swiss quartet consisting of André Hahne (b), Yannick Opplinger (dr), Gabriel Zufferey (p & fender rhodes), Guillaume Perret (s).
  • Olivier Nussbaum: Naïma (AS-269). This album is entirely made of sounds produced by acoustic bass and electric bass (both with and without frets), treated with various objects and techniques (there is one track with kalimba added). The melodies, grooves and musical atmospheres thus created reveal unexpected and surprising sounds but also the desire of the composer of creating a special universe.
  • Organ-X Plus: Organ-X Plus (AS-257). Guitarist Roberto Bossard and drummer Elmar Frey are the founders of Organ-X as well as two major names of the Swiss jazz scene. With the new member of the group Marcel Thomi, who took over the role of organ player two years ago, they form the trio Organ-X, here expanded with tenor sax player Roland von Flüe (He is the *Plus* from the title!). Own compositions as well as several arrangements of lesser-known jazz standards form the basis of this album, heartedly played with swing and a jazz groove.
  • Ovale Trio: Premières Formes (AS246). This unusual trio combines various flute types (alto, bass in addition of the normal type) with vibraphone and marimba, plus darbouka as extra percussion instrument. So it's not a big wonder if I tell you that their main inspirator has been musician and fellow instrumentist David Friedman. They also share a common affinity for Astor Piazzola's music and his artistic approach fusing the written and improvised in one entity. The trio has gained in the last years a real musical development and forged an original sound by setting those instruments together
  • Dorian Perotin: Solos and Duos. 2007. Altrisuoni AS227. The originally classically trained pianist meets here the vibraphonist and current leader of the French Orchestre National de Jazz. Own compositions and 3 jazz standards make the track list.
  • Q3: Introducing Q3 Live and on Tour. 2007. Altrisuoni AS9025. With their unique blend of drum-N-bass, jazz, cool grooves, here's a DVD with the Quinn family, their first DVD with exclusive footage from their 2007 Romanian tour. The editing will amaze the viewer with its docu-movie effects.
  • Stefano Saccon & Enrico Rava "Underscore". This record weaves the harmony and melodic traditions of jazz with today's rhythms and atmospheres like trip-hop or jungle. Rava IS here the perfect bridge between tradition and modernism.
  • Schürmann - Bergamin Project: French Classics. 2007. Altrisuoni AS237. The aim of this CD is to combine the melancholy of French classics (chanson française) with the versatility of jazz improvisation. The instrumentation used is trumpet on the first line, piano and Fender Rhodes, bass and drums. vocals on 3 tracks.
  • Thomas Silvestri Quintet: Les Sirènes (AS-253). 2008. Contemporary acoustic jazz, entirely penned by the leader and jazz pianist Thomas Silvestri. His jazz is filled with poetry, wit and very strong compositions. The quintet has the traditional form of a double blowing line sax/trumpet, piano, bass and drums.
  • Soundz of Lucerne: Soundz of Lucerne 07. 2007. Altrisuoni AS239. This CD presents the performance exams of the students of the Musikhochschule Luzern as they reach the graduation stage of their studies. Various groups and styles, from a programme of attractive Brazilian influenced music to Sarah Buchi´s use of Indian music techniques learned on a sojourn there and now at her return to Switzerland put at the service of some really original music.
  • Stade: Freewheel. Sub Rosa / Quatermass (SR 291). June 09. This is a recording freely inspired (therefrom the title) of the electric Miles of the early 70's. The Swiss duo consists of Christophe Calpini, who laid down the drum tracks, and Pierre Audetat playing live samples and noises. To reinforce the spirit of the project, they invited 3 specialists of crossover music: trumpetist and Miles fan Erik Truffaz, the American versatile and legendary guitarist Elliott Sharp and a raising name - mostly known for his membership in the Pat Metheny Group - harmonicist Grégoire Maret. Boiling electro-jazz mixed with acoustic instruments and a syncopated pulsating hip-hop language.
  • Reto Suhner Quartet: Live In Schaffhausen (AS230). This quartet has a many years long experience of playing together, which brings to mind the notion of telepathic interplay. This is a great asset which allows them to take all kind of risks and display an astonishing group dynamic. The music is either composed by the leader and saxophonist (alto and sopran) or pianist Lester Menezes
  • Tonee: Lowdownflows (AS-262). Warm, graceful music blending African rhythms, jazz and Brazilian folk music into a fascinating and intimate aural experience. This group is well experienced, thanks to their very sensitive bassist Toni Schiavano. The instrumentation is also rather unconventional since besides the electric rhythm section, alto sax and vibraphone are sharing the first line
  • Unitrio: Page 1 (AS-249). 2008. This is an organ/sax/drums trio focusing on swing, high quality musical structure and own compositions. Damien Argentieri is one of the most sought-after organ players in France, here performing on the glorious Hammond B3 with a great sense of colours. Alain Tissot is a multi faceted Swiss drummer from the Jura area while bassist Fred Borey brings a warm and deep sound to the trio's music
  • Chasper Wanner Quartet: Featuting Danny Gottlieb. Altrisuoni AS 199. Wanner is a creative and eclectic musician, influenced by many styles from jazz to pop cia classical or even experimental and electronic improvisation. He likes tasty sound colours and good melodies. This convinced Danny Gottlieb to play drums on the record together with the two Swiss musicians completing the band, bass player Wolfgang Zwiaurer and saxophonist Alex Hendriksen.
  • Nils Wogram Quartet: Construction Field. Features pianist Simon Nabatov.
  • Xenia Xampieri's X-Force: Fighting the Inner Coward (AS-247). 2008. With a female singer in front, this guitar/keyboards/bass & drums outfit offers a modern sounding and dynamic music, open to various styles from pop to jazz, combining rock rhythm energy with jazz chordings, venturing into vocalese scat (often in unisson with the guitar or keyboards), sound experimentations and resulting in a tightly produced album where every detail has its precise place. Ear catching ballads, solid rock drumming, burning sailing guitars, auto-panned keyboards, clavinet funky riffs and synth flights, expect to cross here and there everything which has a musical meaning today and be ready to be bounced from one style to another, like if you were on a canoe trip!

    • AMBIANCES MAGNÉTIQUES .... AMBIANCES MAGNÉTIQUES .... AMBIA ....

  • Ensemble En Pièces: Jardin d’Exil. Ambiances Magnétiques. This jazz quintet from Quebec has a nice balance between mastered writing and audacious improvisations (as/ss/bcl/ + tp + p +b + dms & perc.)
  • Fanfare Pourpour / Lars Hollmer: Karusell Musik. Ambiances Magnétiques MF16. June 07. Recorded at the Victoriaville festival in 2005, this collaboration brings together an authentic big ensemble made of brass, clarinets, guitars, banjo, accordion, violin, percussion and the Swedish leader of such units as Samla Mammas Manna, Looping Home Orchestra, Solea.
  • Lauzier / Perkin / Kuster: Today Is A Special Day. Ambiances Magnétiques AM 149. June 06. First album by a young group from Quebec, offering original compositions and inspired improvisations which shape a kind of contemporary chamber jazz close to the Jimmy Giuffre 3
  • Joëlle Léandre / Gianni Lenoci: Sur une Balançoire. Ambiances Magnétiques. Recorded in Bari, Italy, May 2003

    • ATAVISTIC .... ATAVISTIC .... ATAVISTIC .... ATAVISTIC .... ATAVISTIC ....

  • Alterations: Voila Enough! A unique document in the history of new british musics. At the end of the 70's such rebels as David Toop, Steve Beresford, Terry Day, Pierre Cusack were inventing a tonic blend of abstract pop, punk elements and hip hop before time for a result crashing all norms of that time. The recordings span from 79 to 81 and the booklet is illustrated with photos by Gérard Rouy.
  • Some releases by Glenn Branca!
    + Symphony No. 6 (ALP 010). Also known as "Devils Choirs at the Gates of Heaven", this is a work in five movements for 10 guitars and drums. Recorded in 1989.
    + Selections From The Symphonies (ALP 035). Compilation of 7 movements from his best symphonies.
    + Songs 77-79 (ALP 043). Sound archives of his two no-wave groups, Theoretical Girls (77-79) and The Static (78-79)
  • Bridge 61: Journal. Atavistic ALP 172. Sept. 06. New project led by the chicagoan saxophonist Ken Vandermark, here with Nate McBride on bass, Tim Daisy on drums and Jason Stein on bass clarinet. Original compositions and homages to artists like Sonny Sharrock or the group This Heat.
  • Peter Brötzmann / Fred Lonberg-Holm: The Brain Of The Dog In Section. Atavistic ALP186. Dec. 08. Two sound sculptors on saxes and cello, recorded in an industrial hangar in November 2007 in Chicago.
  • Peter Brötzmann Octet: The Complete Machine Gun Sessions. Atavistic ALP 262. Sept. 07. Machine Gun is the nickname given to Brötzmann by Don Cherry! Those sessions were partly released on LP in 1968 on Brötzmann's own label. They are completed here with two alternate takes and a live version recorded two monthes before at the Frankfurt Jazz Festival with Gerd Dudek. Besides the latter and the leader, the octet also included saxophonists Evan Parker & Willem Breuker, pianist Fred Van Hove, the Dutch drummer Han Bennink among the most famous.
  • Brötzmann / Mangelsdorff / Sommer: Pica Pica. Atavistic ALP 258. A new pearl resurrected from the FMP archives, this CD was recorded in 1982 at the Unna Jazzfest in Germany, setting together 3 big names of the German jazz scene
  • Peter Brötzmann Group: Alarm. Atavistic ALP 257. June 06. Reissue of a FMP record from 1983, recorded by Radio Hamburg in 1980 and presenting an international nonet featuring the British bassist Hary Miller, the South-African drummer Louis Moholo, the Dutch Willem Breuker, the German Hannes Bauer, the Japanese trumpetist Toshinori Kondo and more yet ...
  • Brötzmann / Bennink: Schwartzwaldfahrt. Oct. 2005. ALP 254. Reissue of the historic session released on FMP records and where Benning, missing his drums, came to play with stones, tree trunks and branches in the middle of the Black Forest! 2CD
  • Brötzmann, Van Hove & Bennink: FMP 130 (ALP 244). Recording from Bremen, 1973 and long time collector item.
  • Peter Brötzman: The Inexplicable Flyswater. This record consists of soundtracks for silent movies made in 1964 and multimedia tracks with videos, films and interviews. It also includes a 48 pages colour booklet with reproductions of paintings and photos by Brötzman. Take note: this is a very limited edition !
  • Peter Brötzmann Sextet: More Nipples. ALP 236. With Evan Parker, Bailey, Han Bennink
  • Peter Brötzmann Trio: Medicina (ALP 149). Recordings from 2003 with the Danish bassist Peter Friis Nielsen and the Swedish drummer of Estonian origin Peeter Uuskyla.
  • The Brötzmann Clarinet Project: Berlin Djungle. Atavistic.This concert from 84 has so many performers: the rhythm section of Cecil Taylor facing the unthinkable assaults of Louis Sclavis, Tony Coe, John Zorn and more ...
  • Cline / Parkins / Rainey: Ash & Tabula (Out Trios 3) (ALP 148). Recorded in New York in 2002.
  • Contemporary Jazz Quintet: Actions 1966-67. ALP 250. The Danish quintet already started in 1955 and this recording seems like a mirror to the Great Black Music, which was taking over on the other side of the ocean.
  • Dudek / Niebergall / Vesala: Open. Atavistic. Reissue from the FMP catalog of a forgotten pearl from 1977
  • Full Blast: Black Hole. Atavistic (ALP 187). Difficult to avoid thinking of Last Exit when hearing this band, obviously in a similar lineage, even if no guitar appears here. Instead, ex-Alboth drummer Michael Wertmüller and bass player Marino Pliakas (maybe remembered by some of you from his time in the avant jazz Steamboat Switzerland) form the strong detonating rhythm section of this record (and have been previously the section used by Peter Brötzmann's son Caspar). Brötzmann himself plays on tenor sax only. For fans of free jazz and grindcore!
  • Globe Unity Orchestra: Hamburg 74. Atavistic. Featuring the choirs of the NDR Jazz Workshop
  • Gush: Norrköping. ALP 161. Swedish trio led by Mats Gustafsson.
  • Zu / Mats Gustafsson: How To Raise An Ox (Atavistic ALP 168). Meeting between an Italian jazz-trash-funk trio and the free jazz saxophonist from Chicago. Two baritone saxes, bass & drums to seriously wash your brain!
  • Gustafsson / Stackenäs: Blues. Oct. 2005. ALP 163. Sax/guitar duo by Swedish musicians.
  • Inside-Outside: Reflections (Atavistic ALP 255). Reissue of this '74 album, originally released on the LST label. The beginning of the European free jazz.
  • Kees Hazevoet Quartet: Pleasure. Atavistic ALP 234. The previous partner of Willem Breuker and his two acolytes were able to have the great South-African drummer Louis Moholo on this recording from the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam, originally released in 1970. This reissue is the complement of “ Unlawful Noise” (ALP 219) by Haaz & Company.
  • Steve Lacy Quintet: Esteem (1975). Atavistic ALP 260. This is the first of a series of recordings called "The Leap", coming from the huge archives left by Lacy to his wife Irene Aebi and aimed at rediscovering some of his most singular concerts or showing undocumented aspects of his discography. The present concert was taking place at La Cour des Miracles in Paris on February 26, 1975 with his quintet featuring Aebi herself on violin and cello, Steve Potts on alto and soprano, Kent Carter on bass, Kenneth Tyler on percussion and finally Lacy on soprano.
  • Last Exit: Köln. ALP 252. Welcome reissue of this classical recording from 1986
  • Fred Lonberg-Holm: A Valentine For Fred Katz. ALP 139. Tribute to this pupil of Pablo Casals. Trio cello/bass/dms.
  • Joe Maneri / Peter Dolger: Peace Concert. Atavistic ALP267. Dec. 08. Alt saxophonist Joe Maneri was *discovered* at an advanced age and benefits at last of a due recognition. One of the consequences of this late success is the remastered release of those unreleased recordings from 1964, testifying of his meeting with drummer Peter Dolger
  • Joe Mc Phee: Pieces Of Light. Oct. 2005. ALP 256. Released in 74 before the recordings for Hat-Hut, "Pieces Of Light" completes the trilogy of seminal American albums by McPhee (with "Nation Time" and "Trinity"). He plays on this one all saxes, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, piano and electronics.
  • Moholo, Stabbins & Tippett: Tern (ALP 245). Captured live in 1982 at the Total Music Meeting in Berlin, this is the only recording documenting this ephemerous trio. Originally released as a 2LP on the label SAJ, this record is a must for free jazz fans.
  • Nrg Ensemble: Bejazzo Gets A Facelift (ALP 073). First album by this Chicagoan quintet led by Ken Vandermark and where we also can hear drummer Steve Hunt or Vandermark’s collaborator (in their early years) Mars Williams
  • Rova / Orkestrova: Electric Ascension. ALP 159. Coltrane's master work "Ascension" is revisited here by the Rova Saxophone Quartet and a super group especially gathered for this occasion (we note the presence on bass of Fred Frith).
  • Mario Schiano: On The Waiting List (ALP 235). One of the best cards in Italian free music and maybe to be called with right a Fellinian Art Ensemble. The recording goes back to 1973.
  • Sirone: Live. ALP 253. Recorded in New York, 1981. Sirone was one of the founders of the Revolutionary Ensemble
  • Sound In Action Trio: Gate. Atavistic ALP 160. Sept. 06. Session recorded in 2003 and featuring on drums Robert Barry who was a member of Sun Ra arkestra in the 50's and 60's. Ken Vandermark (saxes and clarinets) and Tim Daisy (drums) complete this trio
  • Sun Ra & His Solar Arkestra: Secrets of the Sun. Atavistic ALP266. Dec. 08. Recorded in 1962, this is one of the first albums of Sun Ra's New York period, to classify together with the seminal album Out There A Minute (Blast First). As a bonus, this release includes the 17' long B-side of a never released reference, which still today remains a mistery to all Sunraphiles, the piece "Flight To Mars"
  • Sun Ra & His Outer Space Arkestra : Some Blues but not The Kind That's Blue. Atavistic ALP 265. Jan. 08. Here's the 3rd part of the reissue program for Atavistic that already gave us "Strange Strings" and "Night of the Purple Moon", focusing on recordings from the label El Saturn. Going back to 1977, this recording had opened up for a combo version of the Arkestra which revisited jazz standards and some compositions by its leader; the CD also gives us two unreleased tracks.
  • Sun Ra: Strange Strings. Atavistic ALP 263. Sept. 07. The two parts of "Strange Strings" were recorded in 1966, just after "Nothing Is". The extravagant leader asked his Astro Infinity Orchestra to play on various string instruments, most of them non-western, for which they didn't have any practice or experience. The goal was to open up for new unknown sounds and creative ideas. In this, this record will remain - together with Atlantis and Magic City - as one of the most atypical works by the Sun God. As a bonus, you'll find "Door Squeak", a composition from 1967 for door squeaks, strings and percussion (something similar would later be presented by the French composer Pierre Henry.
  • Sun Ra: The Night Of The Purple Moon. Atavistic ALP 264. Sept. 07. Reissued for the first time on CD, this suite of bluesy short pieces belongs to some of the most accessible in Sun Ra's discography. It was originally released in 1972 and is here assorted with one alternate take and 3 unreleased pieces, on which the listener will hear Sun Ra furiously soloing on a '64 Würlitzer el piano!
  • Vandemark 5: Beat Reader. Atavistic ALP 184. Jan. 08. This 12th album for the label will be extended (only the first 1000 copies) with a bonus CD titled "The New York Suite", an homage by Vandemark to his mentors!
  • The Vandermark 5: A Discontinuous Line. Atavistic ALP 173. Nov. 06. This is the third time in 12 years that this band has been revamped, still showing a remarkable maturity and audacity. Two blowers, a cellist (strong>Fred Lonberg-Holm) and rhythm section shapes this new formation
  • The Vandermark 5: Free Jazz Classics Vol. 3 & 4. atavistic ALP 270. June 06. Following the homage of Vandermark to all his idols (here Rollins and Roland Kirk)
  • The Vandermark 5: The Color Of Memory. Oct. 2005. ALP 166. First double studio album and last recorded in compagny of trombonist Jeb Bishop. A valid testimony of the work achieved in the 10 years between 1995 and 2005, maybe announcing the new (r)evolutions to come?
  • The Vandermark 5: Airports For Light. Second studio album by this quintet from Chicago. There is a bonus disc! of six classic sonny Rollins tunes interpreted and arranged by the band.
  • The Vandermark 5: Elements of Style, Exercises in Surprise.
  • Wallin / Dyani / Dahlbäck: Burning In Stockholm. Atavistic ALP 249. Recorded live in Stockholm in 1981. This is Per Henrik Wallin trio with a noticeable difference. Here is the South-African bassist Johnny Dyani replacing his usual bassist!
  • Wilen/Gruntz/Clarke: Mental Cruelty. Barney Wilen, George Gruntz and Kenny Clarke created and recorded the music of this film by Hannes Schmidhauser
  • Zu / Nobukazu Takemura: Identification With The Enemy. Atavistic ALP 178. March 07. After having been confronting Ken Vandermark's Spaceways Inc. or Mats Gustafson (on the album "How To Raise An Ox"), the Italian rebels face this time a Japanese DJ. Electronic loops against steel strong rhythm section!

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    AUM Fidelity (USA) ... AUM Fidelity (USA) ... AUM Fidelity (USA) ... AUM FIDELI...

    This label is essentially dedicated to the big names of free music and the Vision Festival of New York.

  • Francesco Bearzatti: Virus. AU 9002. Francesco plays tenor & sopran sax and is accompanied here by Emmanuel Bex on organ and the new Jazzpar Prize winner, drummer and composer Aldo Romano.
  • Rob Brown Ensemble: Crown Trunk Root Funk. AUM Fidelity (AUM 044). Rob Brown is undoubtedly today one of the major voices on alt saxophone in the USA. Created during the Vision Festival in 2006, the group comes now with a studio recording, led by the motto of Jazz Is the Teacher, Funk is the Preacher. On the jazz side is the brilliant rhythm section of bassist William Parker and drummer Gerald Cleaver whilst the funk side is in the hands of keyboardist Craig Taborn
  • Roy Campbell Ensemble: Akhenaten Suite. Aum Fidelity (AUM 045). Inspired by the life of an Egyptian pharaoh and commisioned by the New York 2007 Vision Festival, this record features violinist Billy Bang shining throughout.
  • Daniel Carter / Reuben Radding: Luminescence. Oct. 2005 AUM 025. Recorded at the Earshot Jazz Festival and in studio in Seattle in October 2001. The first is saxophonist and has played with Sun Ra, Cecil Taylor, Medeski & Wood to name a few. The second is a bass player heard together with names like Elliot Sharp, Marc Ribot, Dave Douglas ...
  • Whit Dickey Trio: Transonic. Oct. 2005. AUM 005. Released in97, this is the first album in own name by a drummer who has been member of both Matthew Shipp & David S. Ware's groups. It features alt saxophonist and flutist Rob Brown and bassist Chris Lightcap.
  • Kidd Jordan / Hamid Drake / William Parker: Palm Of Soul. AUM 038. June 06. Respectively heard on tenor sax / dms, tablas and voice / bass, guimbri and percussions. This recording took place 3 weeks before the tempest Katrina which destroyed New Orleans.
  • Maneri Ensemble: Going To Church. Oct. 2005. AUM 024. Joe and Mat with trumpetist Roy Campbell, drummer Ralph Peterson and bassist Barre Phillips.
  • Joe Morris: Singularity. AUM 018. Dec. 2005. Solo improvisations on a Les Paul guitar with steel strings.
  • Joe Morris Trio: Antennae. Dec. 2005. AUM 004. 5th album released in 1997.
  • Joe Morris & Mat Maneri: Soul Search. Oct. 2005. AUM 014. Duo guitar / violin
  • Joe Morris Quartet: A Cloud Of Black Birds. Oct. 2005. AUM 009. With Chris Lightcap on bass and drummer Jerome Deupree.
  • The Nommonsemble: Life Cycle. Dec. 2005. AUM 020. Ensemble led vby drummer Whit Dickey, alsp featuring Matthew Shipp on piano and viola player Mat Maneri. The last member is Rob Brown, featured on alto sax and flute.
  • Organic Grooves: Black Cherry. Oct. 2005. AUM 021. This is a remix of the album "Piercing the Veil" by William Parker and Hamid Drake, also released on the same label (AUM 017). With beats around 132 bpm, ethnic sounds like sanza or tablas, this could be described as a funk trance between Africa and the Brooklyn's American Can Factory or "easy-listening free-jazz“.
  • Other Dimensions In Music: Time Is Of The Essence Is Beyond Time. Oct. 2005. AUM 013. Recorded at the Knitting Factory in 97 and presenting a quartet considered as the rebirth of free. With Daniel Carter, William Parker, Roy Campbell, Rashid Bakr and here featuring pianist Matthew Shipp.
  • William Parker / Hamid Drake: First Communion + Piercing The Veil (AUM039-040). This is the first meeting between the two musicians and it was in New York in 2000. This edition has wonderful liner notes and photos.
  • William Parker / In Order To Survive: The Peach Orchard. Dec. 2005. AUM 010-011. This 2CD is a live recording from 1997 with Parker's quartet "In Order To Survive". Susie Ibarra was on drums, Rob Brown on alt sax and Cooper Moore on piano.
  • William Parker: Long Hidden : The Olmec Series. March 2006. AUM 036. Digipack edition. Africa and America, visited via solo bass pieces and 4 compositions with the Olmec Group, a band devoted to the exploration of the ancient Mexican Maya tradition
  • William Parker & The Little Huey Creative Music Orchestra: Mayor Of Punkville. Dec. 2005. AUM 015-016. 2 hours on two CDs. Recorded at New York's Tonic club in 1999.
  • William Parker & The Little Huey Creative Music Orchestra: Sunrise In The Tone World. Oct. 2005. AUM 002-03. This 2CD was recorded at the Knitting Factory in 95 and presenting Parker's big sized group.
  • William Parker Quartet: O'Neal's Porch. Oct. 2005. AUM 022. The American press (New York Times, Jazz Times, Downbeat and All About Jazz.com) elected this first record by Parker's quartet best jazz record of the year in 2001. With drummer Hamid Drake, trumpetist Lewis Barnes and alt saxophonist Rob Brown.
  • William Parker Quartet: Sound Unity. AUM 034. July 2005. Following the one above and recorded in Canada.
  • Shrimp Boat:
    + Something Grand. Oct. 2005. AUM 028-031. The carreer of this cult group from Chicago spans from 1985 to 1993. It crosses the family tree of other outfits such as Tortoise, Falstaff or Sea And The Cake. This 4CD boxset has been compiled from more than 400 hours of recordings. The 4th CD will only be available on the first 2000 copies and is a bonus filled with rarities. A very well documented 56p. booklet follows.
    + speckly. July 2005. AUM 033. Their first album.
  • Trptych Myth: The Beautiful. Oct. 2005. AUM 035. Trio led by New York pianist Cooper-Moore. Featuring Chad Taylor on drums.
  • David S. Ware Quartet: Corridors & Parallels. Dec. 2005. AUM 019. This 13th album by the saxophonist also shows the debut of Matthew Shipp on synthesizer.
  • David S. Ware Quartet: Wisdom Of Uncertainty. Oct. 2005. AUM 001. With Susie Ibarra on drums
  • David S. Ware Quartet: Freedom Suite. Oct. 2005. AUM 023. A respectful rereading - as if it was a jazz standard - of this extensive famous suite by sax giant Sonny Rollins.

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    AYLER RECORDS .... AYLER RECORDS .... AYLER RECORDS .... AYLER ....

  • Fred Anderson & Harrison Bankhead : The Great Vision Concert (aylCD-052). Duo tenor sax / bass recorded at the Vision Festival, NYC on May 22, 2003.
  • Abdelhaï Bennani Trio: There Starts The Future. Ayler Records (aylCD-083). 2008. Recorded at the club "Les Instants Chavirés", Montreuil, France on June 6, 2007. Bennani is a totally unique player of great restraint, working on melodic fragments and *low overtones* with an odd tormented and dark tone made of plaintive almost painful mutterings, that can swell up with rage and determination when the rhythm section heats up — and for sure French bassist Benjamin Duboc and drummer Edward Perraud are masters indeed of open elastic interaction and turbulent architecture. Just great and atypical music.
  • By Any Means: Live at Crescendo. Ayler Records (aylCD- 077/078). Recorded on October 19, 2007 at Club Crescendo, Norrköping, Sweden. Behind the group'sname is the trio of alt saxophonist Charles Gayle, bassist William Parker and drummer Rashied Ali. In fact the trio had previously recorded an album together ..... 16 years before!
  • The Electrics: Live at Glenn Miller Café (aylCD-034). Recorded in concert at Glenn Miller Café, Stockholm, Sweden, on October 3 & 4, 2005. This is their 2nd album recorded for Ayler Records. The line-up is: Sture Ericson: ts, cl, bcl / Axel Dörner: tp, slide tp / Ingebrigt Håker Flaten: b / Raymond Strid: drums.
  • Exploding Customer: At Your Service (aylCD-063). Recorded at Atlantis Studio, Stockholm on October 3, 2006.
  • Exploding Customer: Live at Tampere Jazz Happening (aylCD ). Recorded at the Tampere Jazz Happening, Finland, on November 9, 2004. Sax, trumpet, bass & dms for a special brand of "happy free jazz"
  • Exuberance: “Live at Vision Festival” aylCD-009. Recorded at the 8th annual Vision Festival, NYC on May 24, 2003.
  • The Fish: Live at Olympic Café & Jazz à Mulhouse (Ayler Records aylCD-008/057). French trio led by altist Jean-Luc Guionnet and also featuring drummer Edward Perraud and bassist Benjamin Duboc. Three voices, equal, operate in violent and contrasting, yet coherent, phases.
  • Stephen Gauci’s Stockholm Conference: Live at Glenn Miller Café, part 1 & 2 (aylCD- 093/094). Recorded at Glenn Miller Café, Stockholm on July 9 and 10, 2007, this double CD presents "The Conference", a group that includes three of today's most active Swedish musicians with trumpeter Magnus Broo (present on disc 2), known from the Brötzmann Chicago Tentet. Present on disc 1 instead of the trumpeter is trombonist Mats Äleklint , a new sensational player becoming more and more impressive. Fredrik Rundqvist is one of many fine young drummers and is playing with most of the well known musicians today. Bass player Ingebrigt Håker Flaten completes the lineup and is quite familiar with the Glenn Miller Café, where he played many times. He has met and played with Stephen Gauci in the US and inspired him to set up this 2-days ... Conference!
  • Charles Gayle Trio: Live at Glenn Miller Café. Ayler Records (aylCD-015). Charles Gayle: as, Gerald Benson: b, Michael Wimberly: dms. Recorded at Glenn Miller Café, Stockholm on February 12, 2006.
  • Henry Grimes Trio: Live at the Kerava Jazz Festival aylCD-028. With Hamid Drake and David Murray.
  • Gyldene Trio: Live at Glenn Miller Café (aylCD- 079). Recorded in concert in Stockholm on August 13 and 14, 2007. This is probably one of the most well known groups in Sweden today with young giant saxophone player Jonas Kullhammar. Jonas is touring worldwide and is becoming internationally *famous*. The tracks include two Monk compositions, one jazz standard (The Night Has A Thousand Eyes) and two own compositions, one by the leader, the other by the trio's bassist Torbjörn Zetterberg. The drums chair is occupied by Daniel Fredriksson
  • SURD: ”Live at Glenn Miller Café” aylCD-020. Recorded at Glenn Miller Café, Stockholm on June 14 and 15, 2004

  • Lars-Göran Ulander Trio: Live At Glenn Miller Café. Ayler Records aylCD-013. Featuring Palle Danielsson on bass and Paal Nilssen-Love on drums. Recorded in concert on August 25 & 26, 2004. The alt saxophonist signs here his first release in own name after having spent a central role in the Swedish jazz scene since no less than the mid 60's. His passionate and very lyrical playing matches very well his partners, reaching a delicate balance between the quieter bass player known through various ECM recordings and the freer and more explosive drummer often associated to Peter Brötzmann

  • Per Henrik Wallin Trio: “The Stockholm Tapes” aylCD-032. Recorded live in Stockholm on August 5, 1975 and August 17, 1977.

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    BVHAAST ... BVHAAST ... BVHAAST ... BVHAAST ... BVHAAST ... BVHAAST ...

    Dutch label created years ago by Willem Breuker.

  • Chris Abelen: Space. BV 0205. July 2005. Here facing the clarinetist Ab Baars and the string quartet Zapp!
  • Chris Abelin Quintet: Dance Of the Penguins. Bvhaast BV 9608. Oct. 2004. Music written by the trombonist and bringing to mind Zappa, Ornette or even Oliver Nelson
  • Willem Breuker: Jona. BV 0305-0405. This opera in 2 acts has been recorded on 2 DVDs in Rotterdam in 2003. The Willem Breuker Kollektief, the string ensemble Esatparks Strings, a choir of more than 50 persons are directed by Rene Nieuwint. The 2nd DVD is made of 83mn dedicated to the making of the opera. Technical data: Format 3/4, PAL, undertitles in english, stereo sound 2.0 and surround 5.1.
  • Willem Breuker: Lunch concert for 3 Street Organs. Some other titles available include: In Holland / The Pirate / Hunger / Kurt Weill
  • Willem Breuker: Tambours Dans La Nuit. BV 0604. Commissioned by the Baal Company and recorded on its creation day in Amsterdam, 1975. Also on the CD is another commissioned work (this time by the Publiekstheater Company) from 1983: La Résistible Ascension d’Arturo Ui
  • Breuker / Bommel / Coke / Engels / Vloeimans / Gorter: The Compositions Of Eric Dolphy. BV 1005. Rereading by a combo issued of the Kollektief
  • Willem Breuker / Loes Luca: This Way, Ladies. BV9301. Musical comedy closely inspired by Brecht and Weil, recorded in concert in Amsterdam in 1992. Texts by Ischa Meijer, music by Breuker, performed by the Kollektief
  • Willem Breuker Kollektief: Pakkepapèn. BV 9807. Symphonic jazz recorded in 97.
  • Willem Breuker Kollektief: Parade. BV 9101. Recorded in 90 with the Mondriaan Strings, this gathers several works by: Erik Satie (Parade / Ballet Réaliste sur un Thème de Jean Cocteau), Kurt Weill (Aggie’s Sewing Machine Song), Boris Vian (La Java Martienne with Henk De Jonge on accordion and synthesizer), Breuker himself and more ... Between the classical rigor and a more ludic jazz.
  • Willem Breuker Kollektiv: With Strings Attached.
    Misery. Theater music, music pieces from the 30's and even one by classical composer Rameau.
  • Willem Breuker, Etc.: The Busy Drone. BV 9603. Various composers (Breuker, Bennink, Mengelberg, andriessen, Kee, Schuyt, Van Bergelijk, Janssen, Muller) present here works for street organ. The instrument itself was found in 1965 and stays at the Stedelijk Museum in Amsterdam where it regularly contributes to concerts or projects such as this one.
  • Contraband: Pale Fire. BV 0401. Oct. 2004. The big band of Willem Van Manen
  • Drummers Double Bill: S.O.S.
  • Intermission: Unanswered Questions. BV 9906. Reissue of an essential record of improvised music, released after a tour in the Netherlands. Guitarist Derek Bailey faces here no less than 3 bass players (among others the great William Parker), pianist Chris Burn and bass saxophonist Klaas Hekman.
  • Frank Van Bommel Quartet: A Crutch For The Crab. BV 9912. Recorded in 1999 in Amsterdam. On top of original compositions by the leader himself, there are also others by a young revolutionary pianist, Dick Twardzik, who died too early at the age of 24.
  • Frank Van Bommel Quintet: Ore. BV 0704. Recorded live at the Bim Huis of Amsterdam between 2002 and 2004, the quartet performs very Mingusian coloured compositions by the pianist and leader.
  • Mal Waldron & Jeanne Lee: Travellin In Soul Time. In trio with the flutist Toru Tenda. Recorded in Japan in 1995 for the 50th celebration of Hiroshima and Nagazaki.

    • ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    CAM JAZZ .... CAM JAZZ .... CAM JAZZ .... CAM JAZZ .... CAM JAZZ .... CAM ....

  • Salvatore Bonafede: Dreams and Dreams (CAMJ 7789-2).
  • Salvatore Bonafede: Journey to Donnafugata. Salvatore Bonafede (piano), Enrico Rava (trumpet), John Abercrombie (guitar), Ben Street (bass), Clarence Penn (drums). Guests: Ralph Towner (guitar) & Michele Rabbia (percussion). This is a studio recording from 2003 of a musical work by Nino Rota. CAM77622
  • Maria Pia De Vito / Danilo Rea / Enzo Pietropaoli / Aldo Romano: So Right. CAM Jazz (CAMJ 7795-2). This new edition includes two additional astounding scat tracks by Maria Pia De Vito and an elegantly re-styled booklet filled with photos. Recorded in 2005 at Bauer Studios, here's an excellent union between the language of songwriting and the universal world of jazz, skilfully performed by great artists. From the re-reading of songs by Joni Mitchell to new original songs, you'll be treated with an intense and elegant interpretation by one of the leading Italian jazz vocalists
  • Antonio Farao: Far Out. Recorded at the Bauer Studios in Ludwigsburgh on october 9-10, 2002. The talentuous pianist is sided by the rhythm section of Martin Gjakonovski (bass) and Dejan Terzic (drums). This recording might also unfortunately be the last featuring saxophonist Bob Berg, recently deceased in a car accident.
  • Paolo Fresu: "Scores". Those original exotic melodies composed by the trumpetist are also played by a bunch of excellent players; just see: Furio Di Castri, Diedrik Wissels, Nguyên Lê, Dhafer Youssef, the Quarteto Alborada ...
  • Lee Konitz & Martial Solal: Impressive Rome. It was in Rome, October 12, 1968! Assisted by no less than Henri Texier & Daniel Humair.
  • Enrico Pieranunzi / Marc Johnson / Joey Baron: As Never Before. CAM Jazz (CAMJ 7807-2). Released: 28/01/08. Recorded in November and December 2004 in Ludwigsburg (Germany) at Bauer Studios, this new recording by the trio also features Kenny Wheeler as special guest
  • Pieranunzi / Johnson / Baron: Ballads (CAMJ8875). 2006. This is the 4th album in the musical adventure of this admirable trio, which enrico once called "the trio of my heart". The thematic homogeneity which characterizes this new CD fully highlights the more intimate and colloquial side of the trio and once again inevitably captures the attention of the listener for the great sense of interplay that gives it life. Throughout the album one can admire the solidity and elasticity of the trio, surely among the best out there today on the international scene.
  • Enrico Pieranunzi, Marc Johnson, Joey Baron: Play Morricone 2. Recorded in 2002 at the Forum Music Village Studios (Rome). CAM 77622
  • Enrico Pieranunzi: Current Conditions with Marc Johnson and Joey Baron.
  • Enrico Pieranunzi: Fellini Jazz. The new work by the italian pianist is centered around jazz, Fellini's most famous film themes and Rome. Around him is a constellation of greats: Chris Potter, Kenny Wheeler, Paul Motian, Charlie Haden.
  • Michele Rabbia: Shifting Grace (CAMJ 7791-2). This brand new record is focusing on the talented percussion work of Michele Rabbia; he is joined by two musicians skilled in improvisation: US piano player Marilyn Crispell and French cellist Vincent Courtois.
  • Enrico Rava: Full Of Life. The latest recording by the trumpet player finds him in a somewhat new and eclectic group: Ares Tavolazzi on bass (ex Area), Javier Girotto saxophonist and member of the Aires Tango and finally Fabrizio Sferra on drums.
  • Edward Simon / John Patitucci / Brian Blade : Unicity (CAMJ 7796-2). Edward Simon attains the apotheosis of his march to concision, working hand-in-glove with this sublime bass-drum tandem. Each is simultaneously a sound painter and a groove master. Extraordinary chemistry.
  • John Taylor: Songs And Variations. CAMJ 7772-2. New solo piano album. A unique album that allows you to discover the graceful precision and elegance of his mastery. Liner notes by his long-time friend, trumpetist Kenny Wheeler.
  • John Taylor: Whirlpool. CAM Jazz (CAMJ 7802-2). Street date: 11/12/07. John Taylor's classy trio delivers another great album, following the trio's acclaimed "Angel of the Presence". Palle Danielsson is on bass and Martin France behind the drums
  • Franck Tortiller / Michel Godard / Patrice Heral : Impertinance (CAMJ 7792-2). Only in a musical context can something so perfect be born from an imperfection... ImpertinAnce: intentionally misspelled, but perfectly composed. Impertinently brilliant! Vibrafonist Franck Tortiller is also known by now as the current leader of the French state financed ONJ (Orchestre National de Jazz). Recorded in December 2005 in Ludwigsburg (Germany) at Bauer Studios.
  • Diego Urcola: Viva. CAM Jazz (CAMJ 77882). 2006. The trumpetist is here in very good company: Edward Simon: piano, Avishai Cohen: bass, Antonio Sanchez: drums, Pernell Saturnino: percussion, Jimmy Heath: sax, Paquito D'Rivera: sax, Dave Samuels: vibes.
  • Kenny Wheeler: Other People. CAM Jazz (CAMJ 7801-2). Street date: 28/01/08. This album marks the veteran musicians' first venture into recording with a string ensemble, in this instance the phenomenal Hugo Wolf String Quartet. The British pianist John Taylor also appears as special guest.

    • ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    CHALLENGE RECORDS .... CHALLENGE RECORDS .... CHALLENGE REC ....

  • Balance: Elements. Electro-jazz.
  • Christy Doran's New Bag: Heaven Is Back In the Street.
  • Hans Dufler: "Scissors". Electro jazz.
  • Steven Kirby "North Light". The guitarist has on his side great players such as Scott Colley, Bruce Barth, Chris Potter, Matt Wilson.
  • Johannes Mössinger New York Trio: Monk's corner. Features prominent guests such as Kermit Driscoll and Joe Lovano.
  • Nimbus: "Festina Lente". Featuring Dave Liebman.
  • The CD of Enrico Pieranunzi Quartet "Alone Together", featuring the great guitar player Philip Catherine and released by Challenge Records is now on the market as Super Audio CD (order SACHR 75056).
  • Dejan Terzic & European Assembly: Coming Up. This new young drummer of serbian origin has been living in Germany for years and this project features among others Danish trumpeter Jens Winther, Hungarian saxophonist Tony Lakatos, Italian pianist Antonio Farió and Macedonian bassist Martin Gjakonovski. The concept behind this project was to have a stable all-european group, the results are a band that thinks and feels, caresses or burns ... together.
  • Jack Van Poul / Hein Van De Geyn / Joe LaBarbera: "Live In Cape Town".
  • Eric Vloeimans "Brutto Gusto" Eric Vloeimans (trpt), Nguyên Lê (g), Lars Danielsson (b), Markku Ounaskari (dr, percu) Recoded at Werktheater, Amsterdam. CHR70102.

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    CLEAN FEED ... CLEAN FEED ... CLEAN FEED ... CLEAN FEED ... CLEAN FEED ...

    Founded in Lisboa in 2001, this new label is born from the desire of revolutionizing the Portuguese jazz scene and rising it to an international level. Their approach reminds of the Knitting Factory in New York. Here are some of the releases:

  • 4 Corners: Alive in Lisbon. Clean Feed (CF 134). March 09. This DVD presents the performance of a quartet featuring among other the Chicagoan saxophonistKen Vandermark and the Swedish drummer Paal Nilssen-Love. Recorded in Lisboa in 2007. The quality of the image is impressive (5 cameras were used) and the sound is nearly equalling a studio quality!
  • Amado / Zingaro / Filiano: The Space Between. Clean Feed (CF 015). A rather fee trio of violin/acoustic bass/baritone sax.
  • Michael Attias: Credo (CF 051). This credo found on a church stone in Avignon in 1995, was transcribed on the place, arranged the year after in Tel Aviv and finally recorded in 99 in New York by a group spanning from trio to sextet. Alt & baritone sax, trumpet, horn, violin, bass and drums are used.
  • Carlos Barretto Quartet: Lokomotiv. (CF 016). Deep, fat and groovy, this group led by its bassist will give us the opportunity of hearing the French musicien François Corneloup - here on baritone sax - in a different context as the usual.
  • Michael Blake / Kresten Osgood: Control This. Clean Feed (CF 136). March 09. The Danish versatile drummer in duo with the saxophonist and ex member of the Lounge Lizards
  • Michael Blake Trio: Right Before Your Very Ears (CF044). By the ex-saxophonist of The Lounge Lizards and featuring drummer Jeff Ballard (from Chick Corea's Origins).
  • Whit Dickey Quintet: In A Heartbeat (CF 037). Features guitarist Joe Morris and alt saxophonist Rob Brown among others.
  • Mark Dresser: Unveil (CF 043). Bass solo recording.
  • Dresser / Harkins / Schick: House of Mirrors. Clean Feed (CF 117). Nov. 08. Trumpetist Ed Harkins and percussionist Steven Schick come both from the contemporary classical scene (interpreting among other composers like Xenakis). Here, with Mark dresser on prepared bass, they offer a complex and rich form of jazz half between the written and the improvised
  • Paul Dunmall Octet: Bridging (CF 017). With pianist Keith Tippett and bass player Paul Rogers among other celebrities of the British jazz scene.
  • Eduardo / Walrath Quartet: Bad Guys (CF 047). Pianoless quartet with huge emphasis on a firm rhythm section. Mingusian in all aspects of its conception, this album includes an excellent interpretation of a piece by the jazz legend Charles Mingus, “Sue’s Changes”. Co-leading this unit is the Portuguese bass player Zé Eduardo (not to be confounded with the Brazilian drummer of the same name)
  • Joe Fiedler Trio: Plays The Music Of Albert Mangelsdorff (CF 049). A first homage to the late trombonist
  • Foltz / Chevillon: Cette Opacité (CF 045). The French bass player known from his belonging to Louis Sclavis's groups is here confronting his partner on clarinet and bass clarinet
  • Charles Gayle: Consider The Lilies. Clean Feed CF 060. Nov. 06. With this trio featuring drummer Jay Rosen and bassist Hilliard Green, the "homeless" saxophonist offers us here a very spiritual music made of hymns and musical offerings to the Creator. By its intensity, it sends us back to the mystical flights of Coltrane or Albert Ayler, about 40 years ago ...
  • Charles Gayle Trio: Shout ! (CF 033). With Sirone and drummer Gerard cleaver.
  • Vinny Golia Quartet: Sfumato (CF 036). Featuring drummer alex Cline
  • Dennis Gonzalez Spirit Meridian: Idle Wild. Clean Feed (CF035). Quartet close to the great lyrical flights of the Art Ensemble of Chicago, presenting in its ranks alongside the leader and trumpetist alt saxophonist Oliver Lake
  • Dennis Gonzalez New York Quartet: Ny Midnight Suite (CF 020). With saxophonist Ellery Eskelin, bassist Mark Helias among others
  • Gerry Hemingway Quartet: Devils Paradise. Clean Feed (CF010). With Ellery Eskelin on tenor sax, Ray anderson on trombone and Mark Dresser on bass
  • Gerry Hemingway Quartet: The Whimbler (CF 040). Neo post free with trumpetist Herb Robertson and the same as above
  • The Julius Hemphill Sextet: The Hard Blues (CF 027). Recorded at the Jazz em Agosto festival in 2003. Homage to the late saxophonist by one of his peers, Marty Erlich, here in front of this sax sextet
  • Imi Kollektief: Snug As A Gun. Clean Feed CF 059. Nov. 06. Jazz musicians from various parts of the world: a French trumpetist, a Brazilian saxophonist, a Belgian vibraphonist and a Portuguese rhythm section give us a music with strong reminiscences of Brazil and Africa!
  • Steve Lehman / Camouflage Trio: Interface (CF 022). The leader on alt sax is accompanied by Mark Dresseron bass and by the drummer Pheeroan Aklaff
  • Daniel Levin Trio: Fuhuffah. Clean Feed (CF 129). Nov. 08. The cellist has opted here for an untraditional form of trio with bass (Ingebrigt Häker-Flaten) and drums Gerald cleaver
  • Lisbon Improvisation Players: Spiritualized. Clean Feed CF 062. Nov. 06. SaxophonistRodrigo Amado is the leader of this project, featuring the Texan trumpetist Dennis Gonzalez
  • Lossing / Maneri / Dresser: Metal Rat. Clean Feed CF 064. April 07. Pianist Russ Lossing is in a direct lineage with the Canadian pianist Paul Bley, here accompanied by the strings of Mat Maneri and Mark Dresser
  • Mauger: The Beautiful Enabler. Clean Feed (CF 114). Nov. 08. The alt saxophonist Rudresh Mahanthappa meets here the rhythm section of Anthony Braxton's mythical quartet in the 80's: bassist Mark Dresser and drummer Gerry Hemingway. Improvised jazz at a high level!
  • Mi3: We Will Make A Home For You (CF 039). In this trio, pianist Pandelis Karayorgis is heard on Fender Rhodes with bass player Nate McBride and drummer Curt Newton for a music looking towards the universe of an electric Miles.
  • Joe Morris Quartet: Beautiful Existence (CF 050).
  • Joe Morris / Barre Phillips: Elm City Duets 2006. Clean Feed (CF 100). Nov. 08.
  • Some new recordings featuring drummer Paal Nilssen-Love!
    +The Sten Sandell Trio + John Butcher: Strokes. Clean Feed CF082. June 07. With bass player Johan Berthling
    + Broo / Lane / Nilssen-love / Vandermark: 4 Corners. Clean Feed CF 076. April 07.
    + Butcher / Nilssen-love: Concentric. Clean Feed CF 067.
  • Paal Nilssen-Love Quartet: Townorchestrahouse (CF 041). Recorded at the Kongsberg Jazz Festival, this recording features the saxophonist Evan Parker. The leader is a much aftersought and reknown drummer on the Swedih free jazz scene.
  • Julio Resende: Da Alma. Clean Feed (CF095). Dec. 07. First album by the Portuguese pianist, which gives a new boost to the jazz scene of this country. The group is a quartet with two tenor saxes in front and rhythm section.
  • Herb Robertson & The Ny Downtown All Stars: Elaboration (CF 042). And all-stars it is indeed when you have in one band saxophonist Tim Berne, the wonderful pianist Sylvie Courvoisier and the unmatched rhythm section of Mark Dresser on bass and Tom Rainey on drums. All being masters of improvised music!
  • Angelica Sanchez : Life Between. Clean Feed (CF 128). Nov. 08. This is mainly a US quintet with the leader (on piano and el piano) originating from Arizona, like saxophonist Tony Malaby. The rhythm section has Tom Rainey on drums and Drew Gress on bass. The only non American member is the French guitarist Marc Ducret. All in all, a line-up that more or less brings us close to the spheres of Tim Berne
  • Bernardo Sassetti Trio: Ascent (CF 046). The leader is pianist and the music characterized by such words as impressionistic, cinematographic, narrative
  • Transit: S/T (CF 055). Led by a percussionist, Jeff Arnal, the music is based on improvisation and the resonance between instruments.
  • Tripleplay: Gambit (CF 019). Trio with Ken Vandermark, recorded in 2002.
  • Viriditas Trio: Waxwebwind@ebroadway (CF 003). A very well balanced and dynamic trio consisting of 3 veterans of post free music: saxophonist Alfred Hart, drummer Kevin Norton and bassist Wilber Morris.
  • Otomo Yoshihide's New Jazz Quintet: Live In Lisbon. Clean Feed 063. Nov. 06. This was recorded in 2004, just before the group became the New Jazz Ensemble. On this last testimony, the essential themes of the quintet will be (re)discovered ( Charlie Haden's "Song for Che" , Dolphy's "Serene", Jim O' Rourke's Eureka, the leader's "Flutter") and the presence of Mats Gustafsson will certainly not remain unnoticed!
  • Zingaro / Regef / Dejoode: Spectrum String Trio. Clean Feed CF110. May 08. Recorded in 2004 at the Teatro Nacional of S. João Da Porto, here's the result of the meeting of Portuguese violinist Carlos Zingaro, hurdy gurdy player Dominique Regef and bass player Wilbert Dejoode! Their music encompasses the various fields of jazz, troubadour and contemporary music

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    CRYPTOGRAMOPHONE ...CRYPTOGRAMOPHONE ...CRYPTOGRAMOPHONE ...CRYPTOGRA

  • The Scott Amendola Band: Believe (CG 123). This is the 3rd album led by this US drummer inspired by Jack DeJohnette. Two prominent guitars top the band in the hands of Nels Cline (from Wilco) and Jeff Parker (Tortoise). Also featuring a frequent partner of Bill Frisell, the violinist Jenny Scheinman. Bassist John Shiffletcompletes the formation
  • Bendian / Gauthier / Liebig / Stinson: Bone Structure. Cryptogramophone CG 114. Sept. 06. Based on collective improvisation, this quartet - founded in 1997 after a first meeting at the Knitting Factory - has a multi stylistic approach, which can bring comparisons to Mahavishnu Orchestra as well as King Crimson (period 1972-74). With drummer Greg Bendian and violinist Jeff Gauthier, the two other operating on guitars.
  • Alex Cline: Continuation. Cryptogramophone (CG 140) will at the opposite present a new album by Nels' brother's quintet, featuring among other violinist Jeff Gauthier and on piano and harmonium Myra Melford
  • Nels Cline: Coward. Cryptogramophone (CG 141). May 09. The guitarist is heard here alone on acoustic and electric guitars, dobro, ukulele, cithar and electronics.
  • Nels Cline: New Monastery. CG 130. Sept. 06. The Californian guitarist has been described by Jazz Times as "the most dangerous guitarist in the world" and revisits here the compositions of pianist Andrew Hill, through the crossed harmonies of his guitar and the electric accordion of Andrea Parkins. Add to this cornet, clarinets and rhythm section.
  • Cline / Dresser / Mintz / Parkins: The Inkling. Cryptogramophone CG 105. Sept. 06. An electric jazz made of virtuosity and with the unvaluable input of harpist Zeena Parkins
  • The Nels Cline Singers: Draw Breath. Cryptogramophone CG133. Sept. 07. The raising star of the guitar in the USA is often given to guitarist Nels Cline, here in trio with drummer Scott Amendola and bassist Devin hoff.
  • - The Nels Cline Singers: Instrumentals. The antinomy in the group's name and the record's title is a message sent to us to identify the sound of instruments to voices, to show us that musicians and their instruments are one. Guitarist Nels Cline has already been quoted by the US magazine Jazz Time as "the most dangerous guitarist in the world"!
  • The Nels Cline Singers: The Giant Pin (CG 120). 2nd album by the trio, released in 2004. Drummer Scott Amendola also performs live electronics while Devin Hoff plays acoustic bass. The repertory is extremely varied, from Colemanian ballads to distorded chords directly imported from
  • Mark Dresser Trio: Aquifer. Cryptogramophone CG 111. Sept. 06. Flute and electronics + hyper-piano are the instruments chosen by the bassist to perform an avantgardistic chamber music (recorded in 2001)
  • Mark Dresser / Denman Maroney: Time Changes (CG 124). Mahoney is a master of hyper piano, a technique where one plays on the piano with one hand while the other simultaneouly strikes the strings. Michael Sarin is on drums and Alexandra Montano sings.
  • Erik Friedlander: Quake (CG 118). Ten original compositions and 3rd album of his group Topaz. There are also covers of Persian and Indian female singers. A hybrid and visionary world music!
  • Erik Friedlander: Quake. This original quartet (cello, alt sax, percussion and bass guitar) is led by the cellist whose musical universe has been formed by working those last ten years with the likes of Dave Douglas & John Zorn.
  • Jeff Gauthier: Mask. Contemporary jazz (acoustic and electric) led by an american violinist based in California.
  • Kneebody: Low Electrical Worker. Colourtone Media CM0701. This is the 2nd album of this band previously revealed by trumpetist Dave Douglas. They seem to occupy at the same time a space encompassing Herbie Hancock's Sextant period, post-rock electric experiences and the metric systems of Steve Coleman! Tenor sax and trumpet define the blowing line, to which are added keyboards, drums and bass. A punchy and groovy meeting!
  • Myra Melford: The Image Of Your Body. Cryptogramophone CG 131. Sept. 06. The New York pianist (hailed by some as the pianist with the most inventive touch to have emerged on the jazz scene since Anthony Davis) brings here her quintet "Be Bread" where figures among others Pat Metheny's trumpetist (Cuong Vu, guitarist Brandon Ross who has been playing with the Lounge Lizards, Cassandra Wilson and more.
  • Alan Pasqua: The Antisocial Club. Cryptogramophone CG 135. The leader of this Antisocial thing is a heavy weight keyboardist and pianist with an impressive background, from drummer Tony Williams to guitarist Allan Holdsworth. If you add to this club, Yellowjackets bass player Jimmy Haslip, percussionist Alex Acuña of Weather Report fame and some of the newer hottest names in the USA like guitarist Nels Cline, you will have no doubt about what to expect: no less than the return of the outmost best jazz-rock!
  • Don Preston Trio: Transformation (CG 107). Trio album by the ex-keyman of the Mothers Of Invention. This could be some kind of visit card since the album presents various aspects from the leader's own compositions to Zappa ( Eric Dolphy Memorial Barbeque) or Carla Bley (Walking Batteriewoman) and also jazz standards like Cole Porter's "I Love You". Alex Cline is on drums, Joel Hamilton on bass and the leader on piano, keyboards and synths.
  • Scot Ray Quintet: Active Vapor Recovery. Cryptogramophone CG 117. Sept. 06. Extreme jazz, blues from the Delta, avant-funk ... an audacious mix by this group led by a bone player and featuring the Cline Bros. (Alex and Nels), violinist Jeff Gauthier and Steuart Liebig on contrabass guitar.
  • Jenny Scheinman: 12 Songs (CG 125). 4th album by the violinist featuring guitarist Bill Frisell among others. Music filled with poetry, fantasy, very sensitive and letting us go into a long journey
  • TRIO M: Big Picture. Cryptogramophone CG 134. The 3 *M* are in fact bassist Mark Dresser, pianist Myra Melford and drummer Matt Wilson.
  • Eric Von Essen: Eric Von Essen - Vol. 1. Many musicians who worked with him play here an homage to the great bass player deceased in 1997. Among others: Alex Cline, Alan Broadbent, Alan Pasqua, Peter Erskine, Dave Carpenter and many more.
  • David Witham: Spinning The Circle. Cryptogramophone CG132. Sept. 07. The L.A. pianist has been for more than 20 years the partner of guitarist George Benson. Here he shows a more versatile side, covering fusion, electro-jazz and world beat. Among his partners are guitarist Nels Cline, another Cline's close associate, drummer Scott Amendola, bass player Jay Anderson, percussionist Luis Conte, saxophonist Jon Crosse and finally, the biggest surprise, pedal steel guitarist Greg Leisz.

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    CUNEIFORM RECORDS .... CUNEIFORM RECORDS .... CUNEIFORM RECO....

    SEPTEMBER 2009 RELEASES

  • Wadada Leo Smith: Spiritual Dimensions. Cuneiform (RUNE 290-291). This double CD presents the current production of the AACM trumpetist, with two different line-up; his acoustic Golden Quintet, featuring here two big sized drummers: Pheeroan Aklaff and Don Moye, from the Art Ensemble of Chicago and his new - more electric - formation called Organic, here in their first recording. The band includes among other guitarist Nels Cline and the Icelandic bass player (living in New York) Skuli Sverisson.
  • Zevius: After The Air Raid. Cuneiform (RUNE 287). Kind of a punk-jazz guitar power trio under the simultaneous influence of McLaughlin's Mahavishnu and the metal Swedish band Meshuggah!

    • MAY 2009 RELEASES

  • Positive Catastrophe: Garabatos Volume One. Cuneiform (RUNE 286). June 09. Cornetist Taylor Ho Bynum and the Puertorican singer and percussionist Abraham Gomez-Delgado are the core of this project, whose unbelievable goal is to mix Sun Ra with Latin jazz and Eddie Palmieri. Typical of a new generation of New York's bands open to all styles, this much brassy ensemble could become one of this year's revelations!

    • MAY 2008 RELEASES

  • Wadada Leo Smith: Tabligh. Cuneiform RUNE 270. The trumpetist sails here in the waters of the Miles Davis of "In A Silent Way" and "Bitches Brew". Helped by drummer Ronald Shannon Jackson and bassist John Lindberg, he finds himself pushed into more modern areas by the young pianist Vijay Yier (here also playing Rhodes and synths). So here's the new brew of the Golden Quartet, an advanturous and very mature work!

    • JANUARY 2008 RELEASES

  • Chris Mcgregor's Brotherhood Of Breath: Eclipse At Dawn. Cuneiform RUNE 262. Concert from Berlin, late 71, recorded by the German radio. To add to the other existing releases by this legendary South-African band

    • SEPTEMBER 2007 RELEASES

  • Healing Force: The Songs of Albert Ayler. Cuneiform Rune 255. This tribute is initiated by guitarist Henry Kaiser and a special attention has been made in the choice of relatively seldom reinterpreted compositions by the saxophonist, who still today keep inspiring new generations with his immense works. The group is close to be a super group with such names as Mike Keneally, here both on piano and guitar or Joe Morris (guitar and acoustic bass); those are just a few picks!

    • MAY 2007 RELEASES

  • Steve Lacy / Roswell Rudd Quartet: Early And Late. Cuneiform RUNE 250/251. Unreleased live sessions selected over 40 years of collaboration, from the "school days" quartet of 1962 to the free bop of the late 90's.

    • JANUARY 2007 RELEASES

  • Graham Collier: Hoarded Dreams. Cuneiform RUN 252. Collier is a veteran of the British jazz scene and a respected educator as well. This recording of his 19-piece ensemble goes back to July 1983 at the Bracknell Jazz Festival. In the ranks of the ensemble are notabilities such as Kenny Wheeler, Ted Curson, Manfred Schoof, John Surman, Tomasz Stanko, etc...
  • The Mahavishnu Project: Return To The Emerald Beyond. Cuneiform RUN242-243. This 2CD presents the recording of a concert given in 2006. Following the album "Phase 2", the project led by drummer/percussionist Gregg Bendian tackles this time another classical album by guitarist John McLaughlin but the concert found also its way to compositions by keyboardist Jan Hammer (Sister Andrea) or drummer and singer Michael Narada Walden (Cosmic Strut). Let's also note the presence in the band of the ex-Miles Davis keyboardist, Mr. Adam Holzman.

    • SEPTEMBER 2006 RELEASES

  • The Microscopic Septet: Seven Men In Neckties. Cuneiform RUN 236-237. This *mini big band* made the glorious hours of the Knitting Factory and have welcomed among others John Zorn or Don Byron. They have recorded 4 albums between 1980 and 1992. This 2CD is the remasterized reissue of their two first (1982 and 1984), completed with bonus tracks.

    • MAY 2006 RELEASES

  • Ed Palermo Big Band: Take Your Clothes Off When You Dance. Cuneiform RUN 225. A tribute to Frank Zappa whose compositions are here arranged for big band.
  • Harry Miller’s Isipingo: Which Way Now. Cuneiform RUN 233. This recording from 1975 presents a sextet which could be described as a mini Brotherhood of Breath, some of the players having also been members of Chris McGregor's cult band.
  • Mujician: There’s No Going Back Now. Cuneiform RUN 232. 6th album by this group of free jazz veterans, the two Paul (Dunmall & Rogers), drummer Tony Levin and pianist Keith Tippett.

    • JANUARY 2006 RELEASES

  • Ray Russell: Goodbye Svengali (2006 Cuneiform RUN 223). As the title implies, this record is dedicated to the late Gil Evans who is even featured here. A lot of musician names related to fusion jazz appear on this recording of recent compositions by the guitarist: Simon Phillips, Mo Foster, Gary Husband, Tony Hymas ...

    • SEPTEMBER 2005 RELEASES

  • Claudia Quintet: Semi-Formal. RUN 217. 2nd album by this band led by drummer John Hollenbeck.
  • Djam Karet: Recollection Harvest. RUN 219. 16th album by this US outfit. This one is in fact juxtaposing 2 recordings from different sources. Recollection Harvest is an incursion into melodic rock with a fusion edge while the other one, "Indian Summer", adds a more delicate painting quality with a subtile electro-acoustic touch to the sounds of guitars, bouzouki and percussion.
  • Forgas Band Phenomena: Soleil 12. RUN 218. 3rd album by the group and a cleverly arranged jazz-rock. Close to the Canterbury sound of Soft Machine, National Health or Caravan but also Zappa (King Kong period).
  • Mats/morgan Band: Thanks For Flying With Us. RUN 215. 7th album by this incredibly tight band but their first release outside of Sweden and their first studio work since 1997. This is a great album by an absolutely monster band who awaits the world's discovery!
  • NDIO: Airback. RUN 216. DIO was formed from the ashes of the Holland-based Hugh Hopper Band on the initiative of saxophonist Frank Van Der Kooij, a key member from the start. The new band, renamed Ndio gathers other Hopper Band alumni: British trombonist Robert Jarvis and drummer Pieter Bast. Three other Dutch musicians round out the ensemble. The music is a fluid and airy fusion of jazz with elements of rock, folk, ambient, classical music and sampling.

    • MAY 2005 RELEASES

  • Graham Collier: Workpoints. RUN 213-214. 2CD. Workpoints consists of two previously unreleased concerts from "a golden age of British jazz": one from 1968 and one from 1975. The music is composed with lots of room for contributions from the individual players, and in that regard, might be comparable to the work of one of Graham's heroes, Charles Mingus.
  • John Surman: Way Back When. RUN 200. Those lost master tapes rediscovered in 2003 go back to recordings from 1969; the music stands between the magnificence of British jazz in 60's and the upcoming jazz-rock, already announcing the then to come evolution of bands like Soft Machine. In fact, a Softie is taking the drum chair on this recording, the great John Marshall.

    • JANUARY 2005 RELEASES

  • Fast ‘N’ Bulbous: Pork Chop Blue Around The Rind (RUN 205). The idea is to use the compositions of Don Van Vliet as a vehicle for improvisation and arranging. The band contains a crew of seasoned improvisers from both the worlds of avant-garde jazz and rock, who render the music as both a tribute and a creative adventure in improvising. Behind the initiative can be found among others guitarist Gary Lukas
  • Machine & The Synergetic Nuts: Leap Second Neutral (RUN 210). Japanese band here releasing their second album. High voltage jazz-rock / fusion or psyché-rock with various influences, from Happy Family to Mushrooms, from Zappa to the boiling Korekyojinn. The drummer comes from Melt Banana, the saxophonist from Delusion Valley, the bassist from Carla and the keyboardist from Hammond Brothers.
  • Yo Miles! / Henry Kaiser & Wadada Leo Smith: Upriver (RUN 201/202). 2nd part of this project based on the electric Miles Davis from the 70’s.
  • Forever Einstein: Racket Science (RUN 206). 5th album by an instrumental guitar/bass/drums progressive rock outfit whose roots include musical forms not normally associated with ‘progressive rock’, such as blues, bluegrass, cartoon and film noir soundtracks, surf-rock, western swing and other very American musical forms that stretch back 50 years or more.
  • Alec K. Redfearn & The Eyesores: The Quiet Room (RUN 204). A huge nine-piece band (accordion/vocals, guitar, French horn, violin, electronics, alto sax, string bass/vocals, drums and percussion), they combine a gigantic array of influences, such as acid folk, maverick 20th century Americana (Tom Waits, Charles Ives, John Cage, Harry Partch), Eastern European folk music, noise/drone rock, cyclical minimalism (Terry Riley or Philip Glass), cabaret and theater music and more.

    • RELEASES ANTERIOR TO 2005

  • Claudia Quintet: I, Claudia. Cuneiform. This is the 2nd release of this jazz influenced - but not limited to jazz - band among whose players can be found known names such Drew Gress and Chris Speed.

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    DE WERF .... DE WERF .... DE WERF .... DE WERF .... DE WERF .... DE WERF ....

  • Latest productions from the Belgian label:
    + The Unplayables: Harmonic Integration. DeWerf (W.E.R.F. 071). 2008. Ben Sluijs quartet meets pianist Erik Vermeulen. In the quartet is another important musician from the Belgian jazz scene, tenor saxophonist Jeroen Van Herzeele
    + Robin Verheyen Quartet: Painting Space. DeWerf (W.E.R.F. 070). 2008. Featuring pianist Bill Carrothers, the French bass player Rémi Vignolo and Belgian drummer Dré Pallemaerts
    + Trio Grande & Matthew Bourne: Un Matin Plein De Promesses (W.E.R.F. 069). 2008. New album by an expanded version of drummer Michel Debrulle's formation Trio Grande, featuring saxophonist and clarinetist Laurent Dehors (also featured here on bag pipe) and tubist and trombone player Michel Massot
    + Brussels Jazz Orchestra: The Music of Michel Herr (WERF067/068). This double CD is a tribute to the pianist Michel Herr by one of the currently hottest European big bands
    + Saxkartel: Yellow Sounds & Other Colours (WERF 066). Sax quartet (SATB) with singer Tutu Puoane guesting
    + Chris Mentens: Burnin' With The Chris Mentens Jazz Van (WERF 065). Sextet featuring as guest guitarist Pierre Van Dormael. Contemporary jazz with extended blowing section and vibraphone plus some electronic here and there
    + Free Desmyter Quartet: Something To Share (WERF 064). Quartet with piano, tenor sax & clarinet, bass & drums
    + Baba Sissoko Ensemble: Bamako Jazz (WERF 063). African jazz mixed with a M Base musical approach (you know, Steve Coleman's metric systems). The band features furthermore specialists of the genre, known from bands like Octurn or Mâäk's Spirit (Blondiau, Van Herzeele, Fiorini) but also Coleman's ex-bassist in his Five Elements: Reggie Washington
    + RKKO: Songs For Broadcast (WERF 062). This is the shortening of radioKUKAorkestra, an acoustic quartet with a chamber music quality and instruments like accordion, clarinet, cello, acoustic bass .... and singing!
    + Cezariusz Gadzina: Saxafabra (WERF 061). Music for brass and percussion instruments
    + Pierre Van Dormael / Octurn : North Country Suite (WERF 060). This album could be taken as THE new Octurn but in fact this is the music of guitarist Pierre Van Dormael played by Octurn!
    + Mâäk's Spirit: 5 (WERF 059). Already the 5th album by this band led by trumpetist Laurent Blondiau and joining Aka Moon, Octurn in the list of bands marked and influenced by the M Base style defined by saxophonist Steve Coleman.
    + Bart Quartier Quintet: Thank You (WERF 058). Led by a vibraphonist and fronted by a double blowing section of sax/trumpet, here's a music between hard bop and contemporary jazz
    + Chris Joris / Bob Stewart: Rainbow Country (WERF 057). Nice to hear anew the tuba player, here in company of one of the great names of the Belgian scene, percussionist and composer Chris Joris. A strong personal voice, much attracted by ethnic jazz, which can't be denied when looking at the line-up, including African musicians, ex-Five elements member and bassist Reggie Washington, Coleman's inspired pianist Fabian Fiorini, jazz saxophonist Eric Person and Belgian bassist Chris Mentens.
    + Ben Sluijs Quartet Live: Somewhere In Between (WERF 056). Recorded at De Meent and Vooruit Jazzlab Series tour, September-October 2005. This quartet is driven by double saxes (Ben is the altoist and Jeroen Van Herzeele the tenor) + rhythm section. Manolo Cabras is on bass and the drum chair is occupied by Marek Partman.
    + Nathalie Loriers - Chemins Croisés: L'Arbre Pleure (WERF 055). Nathalie is one of the best young pianists and composers having appeared on the European scene since the 90's. Her current project is a quintet playing contemporary jazz with an ethnic touch, due to the integration of oud player Karim Baggili in the group. A *free* colour is given by the presence of Gianluigi Trovesi, here on clarinet. The rhythm section is not either unknown since it features French drummer and percussionist Joël Allouche and Belgian bassist Philippe Aerts. The album was recorded at the studio Crescendo in Gent, Belgium, in May 2006.
    + Brussels Jazz Orchestra: Countermove (WERF 054). One of the best big bands to come from this country, under the direction of Frank Vaganée. Recorded in november 2005. When you buy the CD, you also get a unique personal download code which will give you access to a few extra downlodable compositions!
    + W.E.R.F. 046 Ben Sluijs Quartet: True Nature. With another blower - Jeroen Van Herzeele - on tenor and a bass & dms rhythm section.
    + W.E.R.F. 045 “Django!” A Tribute To …
    + W.E.R.F. 044 High Voltage: Hoppin Around. Strong horn section up front (tp, ts, tb) + expanded rhythm section of piano, bass and drums
    + W.E.R.F. 043 André Goudbeek / Xu Fengxia / Joe Jonda: Separate Realities. Goudbeek (alto saxophone, bass clarinet, bandoneon), Xu Fengxia (guzheng, voice), Joe Fonda (bass, flute)
    + W.E.R.F. 042 Rêve D’Éléphant Orchestra : Lobster Caravan. 2nd album by the septet featuring among others trombonist Michel Massot and trumpetist Laurent Blondiau.
    + W.E.R.F. 041 Mahieu / Vantomme Quartet : Whatever. (Ts, piano, bass & dms)
    + W.E.R.F. 040 Jan De Haas Quintet: Doin' My Thing. This group led by vibraphonist and percussion player De Haas also features Nathalie Loriers on piano.
    + W.E.R.F. 039 Bart Defoort Quartet: The Lizard Game. Tenor sax / guitar + bass & drums, where we meet again - on drums this time - Jan De Haas.
    + W.E.R.F. 038 Chris Joris Experience: Out Of The Night. The ex member of Aksak Maboul presents here a rich (both style and instrumentation) and colourful record filled with emotions.
  • Aka Moon: Guitars (WERF 031). The belgian label Dewerf has an impressive collection of recordings presented as "The Finest in Belgian Jazz". Among them is this fantastic album featuring David Gilmore (known from Steve Coleman's Five Elements or Wayne Shorter's band), the belgian Pierre Van Dormael and Prasanna from India are the three musketeers facing the Aka Moon trio. A wonderful CD! Other releases from this collection are Nathalie Loriers Trio + Extension, the 12 piece band Octurn, featuring 3 drummers and 2 electric bass players, Ben Sluijs Quartet, Bert Joris Quartet and more ….
  • "Variations On A Love Supreme" is another DeWerf release. Fabrizio Cassol, alto saxophonist from Aka Moon and Kris Defoort have here arranged a 3 parts musical work based on coltrane's signature album, A Love Supreme. The entire Aka Moon is there, the entire orchestra being an unusual 11 piece!
  • The Finest In Belgian Jazz by Jempi Samyn & Sim Simons. This book over 300 pages is not bigger than a 2CD boxset but reveals to you the belgian jazz scene and its actors: mini bios, interviews and index. From DeWerf.

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    DIW RECORDS .... DIW RECORDS .... DIW RECORDS .... DIW RECORDS ....

  • Kaoru Abe: The Last Recording. From 1978, a rare testimony document of this japanese "Albert Ayler".
  • Ayibobo: Stone Voudou. Group led by guitarist Jean-Paul Bourelly and reflecting a strong Haitian influence.
  • Tommy Flanagan: Plays The Music Of Harold Arlen. Sept. 2005. DIW 486. Recorded in 1978 and produced by singer Helen Merrill (present on the last track). With Connie Kay, drummer of the Modern Jazz Quartet and bassist George Mraz.
  • Hakuhei Kim Trio: Open The Green Door. Sept. 2005. DIW 631. This pupil of pianist Mike Nock is here heard in trio.
  • Kondo/Lovens/Lytton: Death Is Our Eternal Friend (DIW 455). Oct. 04. Improvisations from Japanese concerts back to 1982. Kondo’s trumpet facing two free jazz drummers!
  • Lee Konitz: Some New Stuff. With Greg Cohen (bass) and Joey Baron (dms). (DIW-939)
  • Helge Lien Trio: Asymmetrics. DIW. The new album by the Norwegian pianist transmutes the fascination that Bill Evans or Keith Jarrett had on him.
  • The 35th reunion of the New York Art Quartet (Milford Graves/RoswellRudd/John Tchicai/Reggie Workman) is available on DIW Records (DIW-936).
  • Willi Oteri: Spiral Out. DIW. Strongly smelling the 70's (Davis, Zappa, Lifetime), this record features the rhythm section of Tony Levin & Pat Mastelotto from modern Crimson as well as Mike Keneally. Olympic jazz-rock!
  • George Robert: Soul Searching. DIW 947. Live recording of the Swiss saxophonist's quartet in his home land. Featuring Kenny Barron on piano and Billy Hart on drums, Rufus Reid on bass.
  • James Blood Ulmer: Harmolodic Guitar With Strings. DIW 878. A very inspired Ulmer backed by a string quartet led by violinist John Blake. Fresh, accessible and much expressive!
  • Otomo Yoshimide’s New Jazz Quintet: Tails Out. DIW. Mingus, Haden, James Blood Ulmer, Beatles and more, revisited by a fiercely provocating quintet.

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    ECM RECORDS .... ECM RECORDS .... ECM RECORDS .... ECM RECORDS .... ECM RECO ..

  • Egberto Gismonti: Saudações. ECM 2082/83. Planned for June 19th, 2009, this release is Egberto's first new ECM recording in 14 years; it is a double album that indicates the range of his artistry. Disc one features Gismonti the composer on a 70-minute journey through Brazil: "Sertões Veredas - tribute to miscegenation". It is a work that takes account of Brazil's culture and history, landscapes and cityscapes, vividly evoked by Cuba's all-women orchestra the Camerta Romeu, under the leadership of Zenaida Romeu. Disc two features Gismonti the guitarist in an exciting duo recital with his similarly-gifted son Alexandre, romping through a programme that includes many well-known pieces such as "Zig Zag", "Lundú" and "Dança dos Escravos".
  • Jon Hassell: Last Night The Moon Came Dropping Its Clothes In The Street (ECM 2077). 25 years after his highly influential "Power Spot" album, Jon Hassell returns to ECM with his collective Maarifa Street and some spacious Fourth World dub-montage music, his uniquely vocal trumpet sailing forth into mysterious soundscapes. Core material is drawn from a session at the today famous Studios La Buissonne near Avignon in April 2008, with detail added in Los Angeles in November and December. Live recordings from Courtrais, Belgium and London, as well as a remix of a piece originally created for a Wim Wenders movie, are also integrated into the atmospheric, filmic flow, along with short samples snared throughout 2008. The extended line-up include among other the Norwegian electronic guru Jan Bang and - from the same country - another wizzard on guitar, Eivind Aarset
  • Evan Parker Electro-Acoustic Ensemble: The Moment's Energy. ECM 2066. 5th ECM album from Parker's Electro-Acoustic Ensemble whose pioneering work has effectively established a model for a new kind of improvising chamber orchestra, creating fresh colours from the blending and contrasting of acoustic instruments and live electronics. The latest edition of the group adds some new members - two Americans, clarinetist Ned Rothenberg (also playing here on shakuhachi) and trumpetist Peter Evans, both well-known to followers of improvised music - and a Japanese musician, Ko Ishikawa , thus further expanding the horizons. With more acoustic instruments in the mix, the group now embraces both the ancient and the modern: Ko, for instance, plays exclusively the sho, the archaic bamboo mouth organ, which sounds thoroughly futuristic when processed by the Ensemble's sonic scientists. Similarly, the borders between improvisation and composition are dissolved in this music.
  • Enrico Rava: New York Days (ECM 2064). Recorded in 2008 during a new US sejourn, here's the new transatlantic project shaped by the Italian veteran trumpetist together with his country mate and pianist Stefano Bollani, the US ECM rhythm section of Paul Motian & Larry Grenadier and the new ECM recruit, US saxophonist Mark Turner whose tenor sax searching and analytical tone is in sheer contrast to Enrico's lyrical flourishes, making nonetheless a fabulous pairing!
  • The new ECM recording by Louis Sclavis - Lost on the Way (ECM 2098) - presents a nearly new quintet. If guitarist Maxime Delpierre and drummer François Merville were already contributing to the album "L'Imparfait des Langues", saxophonist Matthias Metzger and bass player Olivier Lété are the newcomers to a project whose goal is to invent new musics in which to lose oneself.
  • Andy Sheppard: Movements In Colour. ECM 2062. On this first real album in own name for ECM, the British saxophonist heads an international quintet in a programme of self-penned pieces, all buoyant and strongly melodic. Sheppard's elegant saxophone and the strongly-contrasting guitars of John Parricelli and Norwegian Eivind Aarset are lifted up by the rhythmic drive of Arild Andersen 's muscular bass and the crisp, dynamic tabla of Kuljit Bhamra, a musician well known in the UK as a key figure in the Asian pop and bhangra movements.
  • John Surman: Brewster's Rooster (ECM 2046). After several stylistically varied projects, the British saxophonist (here on baritone and sopran saxes) comes back to a more classical line-up, with guitarist John Abercrombie and long time partner Jack DeJohnette as well as bass player Drew Gress. Surman offers an album unequivocally jazz in its orientation. Soulful ballads, hard-driving pieces and fiery improvisations are all to be found here. Street date: June 19th, 2009.
  • Miroslav Vitous: Remembering Weather Report. ECM 2073. 2009. Vitous, a founding member of Weather Report, offers here a kind of tribute, based on the formative years of the legendary band but still penned by himself. An obvious musical empathy with drummer Gerald Cleaver, the presence on bass clarinet of the much personal French musician Michel Portal, inspired soli by the Swiss trumpetist Franco Ambrosetti or saxophonist Gary Campbell, are the necessary ingredients for recalling the spirits of Wayne Shorter but also Ornette Coleman and the classical composer Antonín Dvorák.

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    EKTIC ... NEW FRENCH LABEL!

    Will promote the meeting between artists willing to discover new sound territories inside fields like electro-jazz or rock, improvised musics, electro-acoustic or sound poetry and with a privileged expression right given to Francophone musicians

  • Anorien: La Règle De 3. EK 001. 3 blowers, 3 different recording places: a natural cave, a farm and an atelier.
  • Battus / Madiot / Murayama: L°. EK 005. Recorded at the GRIM in 2003, Marseille, France.
  • Bonvalot / Darmedru / Marchetti: Crête. EK 002. Between jazz and industrial
  • Desmarchelier / Doneda / Toulemonde: Revermont. EK 003. Guitar, saxes and electro-acoustic devices
  • Lussier / Tétreault: Dur Noyau Dur / Live In France. EK 009. The duo from Quebec was recorded during the Musique Action Festival in 99. Electric guitar and turntables.
  • Miss Goulash: Karaoké Karaté Club. EK 007. 8 musicians coming from rock, punk, hard-core, jazz, electro, folk, classica. The repertoire is a mix of energic improvisations, jazzy arrangements, East-oriental colours, an unacademic look at rules in serious music.
  • Matthieu Werchowski: Uwaga. EK 008. 7 improvised pieces for solo violin, recorded in 2004 in France and Germany

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    EMANEM RECORDS .... EMANEM RECORDS .... EMANEM RECORDS .... EMA...

  • Derek Bailey: Fairly Early With Postscripts. Emanem EM4027. Solos and duos from recordings in 1971 and 1998 with prestigious collaborators such as Anthony Braxton, drummer John Stevens and Kent Carter. Derek plays acoustic and electric guitars. A welcome reissue.
  • Derek Bailey: Domestic & Public Pieces (EM4001). Improvised solo guitar recorded in London between 75 and 77. Originally released on various labels (Quark, Caroline and Emanem) and finally on CD. There is a short interview from 72 in the booklet
  • Derek Bailey: Lace. Emanem (EM 4013). Nov. 2005. Pure solo guitar concert recorded on December 15, 1989 in Los Angeles. For this occasion, the late guitarist played on his Epiphon Triumph guitar (vintage 1936). This reissue presents the entire concert, inclusive speech and claps!
  • Berger / Blackwell: Just Play. July 2005. EM 4037. Reissue of this meeting from 76 with a strong African character (vibraphonist Karl Berger plays also here balafon and darbuka).
  • Bianco / Liebman / Marino: Line Ish (EM 4104). 2003. Liebman plays saxes, flute and piano. The album is in the spirit of Coltrane's "Sun Ship" or "Meditations"
  • Beresford / Thomas / Weston: Three Pianos (EM 4064).
  • Anthony Braxton / Milo Fine: Shadow Company (2004). EM 4113. One 66mn long improvisation recorded at the Wesleyan University in Middletown, USA.
  • Braxton / Bailey: First Duo Concert (EM 4006). CD reissue of the integral concert at the Wigmore Hall, London, originally released in 74 as a 2LP
  • Butcher / Malfatti / Lovens / Durrant / Russel: The Last Recording. Emanem EM 4121. Reissue of an album originally released in 1989 on Butcher's first label, Acta. Improvised music with respectively: tenor & soprano saxes / violin, electronics / drums and saw / trombone, zither, etc / acoustic guitar.
  • Butcher / Edwards: Optic (EM 4089). A series of sax/bass duos recorded in Brussels and Barcelona. The sax player is overtly inspired by Evan Parker
  • John Butcher / Derek Bailey / Rhodri Davies: Vortices & Angels (EM 4049). From the time when Bailey was still living in London. The saxophonist (born in 54) is here playing duos with either the guitarist (born in 31) or the harpist (born in 71). 3 generations at work!
  • Kent Carter String Trio: The Willisau Suites (84/97). July 2005. EM 4105. Those pieces for violin, alto and bass, composed by Steve Lacy's ex bass player, are surely to be placed in contemporary chamber music between written and improvised. They can evoke Bartok, BergBeethoven.
  • Lol Coxhill: More Together Than Alone. Emanem EM 4136. June 07. A selection of duo recordings with veterans of the British jazz scene in the period 2000 - 2005 and a superb solo performance!
  • Coxhill / Weston: Boundless (EM 4021). Short duos recorded during early winter in 1998. Veryan Weston had already met Coxhill in 78 for the album "The Joy of Paranoïa", released on the label Ogun.
  • Lol Coxhill: Alone And Together (EM 4034). Oct. 2005. Solo on sopran or sopranino sax, duos with Stevie Wishart on violin and hurdy gurdy or with Marcio Mattos on cello and electronics.
  • Lol Coxhill: Spectral Soprano (EM 4204). This double CD presents Coxhill in a great variety of settings, from solo to big band (the London Improvisers Orchestra) via various combos ( The Recedents or Melody Four). Many meetings with the cream of English jazz musicians, from frequent partners likeTony Coe or Steve Beresford to lesser known collaborations with pianist Steve Miller or electronic practician Paul Schütze and many more …
  • Lol Coxhill: Digswell Duets (EM 4052). Duos with Eryan Weston: piano and Simon Emmerson: electronics
  • Paul Dunmall: In Your Shell Like. EM 4111. The trio (bagpipe, sax/hurdy gurdy/percussion) is recorded in Brussels in 2003.
  • Dunmall / Rogers: Awareness Response (EM 4101). Music close to Mujician. Bag pipe or sax against basses!
  • Milo Fine Ikebana: London Encounter (EM 4213). Recorded in Spring 2003 during the Freedom of the City Festival in London, this album documents a series of meetings by the US multi instrumentist with the new guard of the British improvisation.
  • Free Base: The Ins And Outs. July 2005. EM 4116. Studio recording from 2003 by a trio of alt & baritone sax/bass & electronic/drums.
  • Steve Lacy: Hooky. EM 4042. Sopran solo recorded in a church in Montreal.
  • Steve Lacy: Saxophone Special + (EM 4024). Concerts of Lacy’s trio (with Steve Potts and Kent Carter) meeting the holy trinity of British improvisation: Derek Bailey, Evan Parker, John Stevens, Trevor Watts …Recorded at the 100 Club and the Wigmore Hall, London in 73 and 74.
  • Steve Lacy: Weal & Woe (EM 4004). First solo concerts recordings of Lacy in Avignon, France, August 72 followed by a pacifist suite in Zurich with his quintet in 73.
  • Fred Lonberg-Holm: Dialogs (EM 4109). This pupil of Morton Feldman comes here with his 2nd solo album where he fixes on his cello number of various protheses like motors, loud speakers, microphone cells, etc…
  • London Improvisers Orchestra: Responses, Reproduction & Reality (Emanem EM 4110). Nov. 2005. The ensemble played at the 3rd and 4th edition of the Freedom of the City Festival in 2003 and 2004. 7 excerpts of their performances are presented here.
  • Frank Lowe / Eugene Chadbourne: Don’t Punk Out (EM 4043). Reissue of the LP (QED 995) to which have been added 3 covers by Chadbourne of Lowe’s “Inner Extremities Suite” and some French solo recordings by the saxophonist shortly before his tragic disparition
  • Phil Minton: A Doughnut In Both Hands (EM 4025). Solo singing from 75 – 82 originally issued on RIFT and now augmented with unissued takes.
  • Phil Minton / Roger Turner: Drainage (EM 4211). 2CD (one studio + one live) and duo voice/dms
  • Maggie Nicols / Caroline Kraabel / Caroline Hug: Transitions (EM 4068). Women trio of one voice and 2 saxes.
  • Parker / Guy / Lytton: At The Vortex (EM 4022). Two long improvisations from a London concert in 1996
  • Roland Ramanan: Caesura (EM 4123). This album was to change the musical direction of the leader and trumpetist, here with percussionist Mark Sanders, cellist + electronics Marcio Mattos and bassist Simon H. Fell
  • Howard Riley: Two Is One. Emanem EM 4127. Sept. 06. Re-recording (his first in a 25 years long career) of 9 improvisations by one of the great British free pianists
  • Riley / Tilbury / Tippett: Another Part Of The Story. EM 4088. On the initiative of Howard Riley in 2002, his duo with Keith Tippett, a leading one in avant-garde jazz since the 60's, meets here the AMM pianist John Tilbury. For (prepared) piano.
  • Rottor: The First Full Turn. EM 4026. This quartet was created and recorded in 1998 at Le Mans Jazz Festival, France. With the two Tippett (Keith and Julie) and the two Paul (Rutherford on trombone and Rogers on bass).
  • Roswell Rudd: Blown Bone. Emanem EM4131. Jan. 07. This is the reissue of an album originally released in Japan only in 1979. It consists of two different sessions featuring plenty of wonderful musicians ( Enrico Rava, Steve Lacy ,Wilbur Little, Paul Motian, Sheila Jordan ...) but also presenting an unreleased track from 1967 with Roswell playing the piano in duo with saxophonist Robin Kenyatta.
  • Rupp / Buck / Williamson: Weird Weapons. EM 4119. Those improvisers based in Berlin fight for a pure acoustic performance. No amplification, no electronic in this guitar/bass/percussion trio.
  • Russell / Völker / Werchowski: Three Planets (EM 4106). Violin, accordion and guitar played by three exciting improvisors
  • Paul Rutherford: Neuph (1978-80). Oct. 2005 EM 4118. Soft trombone and euphonium improvisations (with rerecordings) from the late 70's + 2 unreleased solos from the same period, recorded in Italy.
  • Paul Rutherford: Gheim / Live At Bracknell. EM 4107. Reissue of a cassette released on the label Ogun. With Nigel Morris on drums and Paul Rogerson bass.
  • Paul Rutherford: The Gentle Harm Of The Bourgeoisie (EM 4019). Solo trombone and a record exhalted by Derek Bailey.
  • Sharp / Fried: Feuchtify. Emanem EM 4133. Jan. 07. 2nd album by the duo recorded in 2001 at the New York's Tonic club for Sharp's 50th birthday. He's heard playing sopran sax, dobro, guitar, bass guitar, electronics, together with Reinhold Friedl on prepared piano.
  • Elliott Sharp: The Velocity Of Hue (EM 4098). Solo acoustic guitar.
  • Roger Smith / Louis Moholo-Moholo: The Butterfly And The Bee. EM 4114. Recorded in London in August 2004. The first, guitarist and one of the bearing forces in the Revolutionary Ensemble meets the second, drummer of the Brotherhood Of Breath. A top summit!
  • Spontaneous Music Ensemble: Bare Essentials 1972/1973. Emanem EM4218. June 08. This 2CD gathers improvisations born from the duo work between saxophonist Trevor Watts and drummer John Stevens in 1972-1973. Stevens also plays cornet here
  • Spontaneous Music Ensemble & Orchestra: Trio & Triangle. Emanem EM4150. June 08. This is the reissue of the LP (SFA092) which included a London concert from 1981 and another from Newcastle in 1978. To those has been added some unreleased material. The basic trio is composed of John Stevens (percussions, cornet and voice), Nigel Coombes on violin and guitarist Roger Smith. A host of eminent players from the British jazz scene then invictivate the trio, from saxophonist Lol Coxhill to pianist Howard Riley, just to quote a few. Expect some great moments of hilarious improvised craziness!
  • Spontaneous Music Ensemble: Frameworks. Emanem EM4134. dec. 07. In 1968, 71 and 73, the drummer John Stevens led 3 different versions of his ensemble and those lost gems are finally seeing light again, allowing us to rediscover on a new angle one of the major groups that started the British improvised music scene
  • Spontaneous Music Ensemble: A New Distance. EM 4115. Reissue of a mythical album originally released on the label Acta and presenting the two last performances of the ensemble. There are also some unissued tracks from 1993 where the trio of John Stevens: dms, tp / John Butcher: ts,ss / Roger Smith: guitar is joined by flutist Neil Metcalfe
  • Spontaneous Music Ensemble: Face To Face (73). From Emanem (EM 4003). Nov. 2005. Drummer, percussionist and cornetist John Stevens faces saxophonist Trevor Watts
  • Spontaneous Music Ensemble: Summer 67 (EM 4005). Mostly a duo between Evan Parker (ss, ts) and percussionist John Stevens. They are joined on one third of the album by bassist Peter Kowald.
  • John Stevens Quartet: New Cool. EM 4117. This quartet, coming from the real British New Thing, was recorded live at the Crawley Festival in 92
  • Veryan Weston / John Edwards / Mark Sanders: Gateway To Vienna. EM 4214. Double CD, one live, one studio by this piano/bass/drums trio.

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    ENJA RECORDS ... ENJA RECORDS ... ENJA RECORDS ... ENJA RECORDS ...

  • Rabih Abou-Khalil: Journey To The Centre Of An Egg (ENJ-9479 2). This is his 13th album for the label! Abou-Khalil's brilliant playing of the oud (the Arab lute) is this time combined with Joachim Kühn's piano (and saxophone!) and the artful drumming of Jarrod Cagwin, a long-time member in Abou-Khalil's regular band and deep into Turkish, African and Indian rhythms. The three of them go for quick-minded interaction full of amazing turns and humorous high points
  • Franco Ambrosetti: Liquid Gardens (ENJ-9486). The music on this new album includes solos and duos, combo efforts, romantic jazz standards for fluegelhorn and symphony orchestra, even poems and singing whales. There are aggressive and impressionistic, even surrealistic moments to be discovered.
  • Ferenc Snetberger: Nomad (ENJ 9485-2). The trio's music, ranging from modern jazz drive and world beats to decent electronic sounds and vibrant lyricism, catches the audiences by its sheer emotional power. The leader and guitarist is Hungarian and brings with him the mighty Arild Andersen and Italian-born drummer and percussionist Paolo Vinaccia, who has been living in Norway for 25 years and is a household name on the most creative Scandinavian improvisers' scene.

    FRESH SOUND NEW TALENTS ... FRESH SOUND NEW TALENTS ... FRESH SOUND NEW ...

    + Perico Sambeat & Javier Vercher: Infinita. (FSNT 351). July 09. Two Spanish sax giants back to back in a seriously fascinating set of all original compositions that embraces both the avant-garde and the old school. Inspired by latin rhythms, Vercher, on tenor sax, relishes free playing for its unpredictability and intuitiveness and the instant rapport with his fellow player, Sambeat, who gives an emotional gravity and a palpable sense of spirituality on alto sax. The feeling of discovery is present all around the record that also features Andrew Hill's drummer Eric McPherson and bass player Edward Perez.
    + Kevin Brady Trio: Zeitgeist (FSNT 348). July 09. After two critically acclaimed tours and festival performances, drummer and composer Kevin Brady continues his collaboration with the innovative pianist Bill Carrothers. Brady has many years of experience playing with some of Ireland’s most prominent trios including Organics and The Phil Ware Trio. Recorded in Dublin.
    + Nasheet Waits: Equality (FSNT 347). July 09. Drummer Nasheet Waits was member of Max Roach's percussive group M'Boom as well as pianist Andrew Hill's band. Here, he leads his first band, a jazz quartet balancing tradition and modernism, featuring pianist and previous colleague Jason Moran (Waits was playing in Morans group Bandwagon)
    + Roman Ott: Seeing People (FSNT 346). July 09. With his group Inner Shape, a jazz quartet from Berlin founded in 2003 and featuring guitarist Kurt Rosenwinkel, alt saxophonist Roman Ott comes here with the band's second album, made of own compositions based in modern structures.
    + Jordi Gardeñas Group: Miles 65, 67, 68, 69 (FSNT 342). April 09. As the title implies, this music is inspired by the late great Miles Davis quintet. Drummer Jordi Gardeñas leads this open-hearted homage, supported by a great cast that features awarded saxophonist Martí Serra, guitar sensation Jordi Matas, and a host of special guests including Benet Palet on trumpet and electric bassist Josep Cucurella. The result is a project to be taken seriously.
    + João Lencastre: Communion B-Sides. FSNT 338. Jan. 09. Drummer Joao Lencastre's second work in front of his Communion band, presents nine spirited tracks. Despite of the Paul Motian's Fiasco‚ and Steve Swallow's "Pete Best" seven of them are originals. Also in the band is alt saxophonist David Binney
    + Aruán Ortiz Quartet: Alameda (FSNT 336). April 09. Touched by a variety of influences, from Andrew Hill to Chopin and Cuban legend Lili Martínez, Aruán's music transmits a fresh sound that brings together pure jazz and Afro-Cuban roots. From the first note he transmits a musical maturity, and conveys such energy and intimacy in his music that all who have heard him cannot remain indifferent.
    + Michel El Malem Quartet: First Step. FSNT 335. Jan. 09. Debut album by tenor and sopran saxophonist (he started on the instrument at the age of 30, after having played both piano and guitar)
    + Jeremy Udden: Plainville (FSNT 330). April 09. Described as "An appealingly dreamy roots-jazz combo" by New York's magazine Time Out, the record, named for Udden's home town, is his second as a leader for the Fresh Sound New Talent label. Also featuring the Norwegian bass player Eivind Opsvik
    + Jason Rigby: The Sage. FSNT 328. Nov. 08. With "The Sage", Jason Rigby has composed an album that’s thought provoking without being pretentious, accessible without being insubstantial. Rigby is a fine saxophonist who builds coherent ideas gradually without over-emoting, the sign of someone in complete control of his craft. He is an eclectic writer, unafraid to let his inspirations shine through, be it Ornette Coleman's thematic openings or the second great Miles Davis Quintet. When writing, he always have in mind the people who play with/for him, here drummer Gerald Cleaver, bassist Cameron Brown, trumpetist Russ Johnson and on Fender Rhodes, pianist Mike Holober.
    + Hironobu Saito: The Rain. FSNT 326. Sept. 08. The Japanese guitarist is inclined to follow a musical original and rather meditative smooth groove but pianist Aaron Parks gives this time a more impressive jazzy support to the electric and acoustic formats this set runs; this is an album completely penned by the guitarist, except for the standard “I Wish I Knew”.
    + Giulia Valle with Jason Lindner & Marc Ayza: Enchanted House. FSNT322. July 08. Vocalist Giulia Valle and drummer Marc Aysa met pianist Jason Lindner during a first visit to New York in 2000. Here they found that playing together brought in a special chemistry. After some more gig as a trio, they finally recorded this, their debut album. The trio's sound combines a strong versatile rhythm section with the agility of Lindner phrasing, performing on a host of keyboards, from piano to Fender Rhodes, Hammond C-3 organ, Minimoog voyager, Prophet 08. The CD includes mainly Giulia's stuff and she's also the artistic producer of what can be considered as an astonishing piece from the hottest part of contemporary Jazz.
    + Marc Ayza: Offering. FSNT321. July 08. One of the most in-demand session players in the Spanish jazz scene, Marc Ayza is a versatile, accomplished drummer, whose skills as a bandleader and composer are not to be overlooked. After more than a year in front of this personal project, the breathtaking result come in the form of his debut as leader for Fresh Sound New Talent. This CD is an wonderful slice of music, one that makes for a few completely amazing breaks and a very funky sound overall. Ayza does a remarkable job working in a depth of sound that is way more than just straight jazz or instrumental soul.
    + Mikkel Ploug Group: Harmoniehof. FSNT 317. May 08. This is the 2nd album for Fresh Sound, recorded in Malmö, Sweden, in 2007. Ploug is a Danish guitarist whose recognition is getting bigger and bigger; his group opened for the Wayne Shorter group in april 2007. With him is another Dane, bass player Jeppe Skovbakke as well as the American saxophonist Mark Turner. Completing the line-up is drummer Sean Carpio
    + Paul Olenick Sextet: Contact. FSNT 315. May 08. Trombonist Paul Olenick is living in New York City since 1997 and cut this session in 2005, a fine effort which features very special soloist presence of alto sax Chris Cheek.
    + Kevin Brow: Koptor. FSNT 314. April 08. Koptor is lead by Canadian drummer/composer and now Copenhagen resident Kevin Brow. This debut self-titled album has established Koptor as one of the most interesting new bands in Canada and one that is quickly becoming known on both sides of the Atlantic. The album features all original compositions by Brow, which are said to be - Intelligent compositions with a great base to improvise on and even if the groove is not simple there is always a constant flow. The music is built upon openness, lyrical melodies, twisting grooves and improvisations that are propelled by Brow’s lyrical drumming and the fiery playing of three of New York’s most in demand young musicians pianist Jacob Sacks, bassist Eivind Opsvik and saxophonist Rob Mosher.
    + Pete Robbins: Do The Hate Laugh Shimmy. FSNT 313. April 08. Listening to this music transports you into the distinct musical universe of alto sax/composer Pete Robbins. It is filled with soaring sonic sculptures; ten singular tunes, peppered with his sprightly and beautifully toned flights of improvisation on alto sax. With this CD -Robbins’ third release as a leader- this grant winning (Chamber Music America’s prestigious “New Works: Creation and Presentation” grant), and critically applauded artist, offers a new chapter to the jazz cannon that reminds us of the vibrancy, originality and prolificacy that is so common in jazz today, particularly in his adopted home of Brooklyn. Some established new players will also be heard here like keyboardist Craig Taborn (Rhodes and Electro Nord) or guitarist Ben Monder, just to name a few!
    + Ramon Diaz: Unblocking. FSNT 311. April 08. 2nd album by the quintet, again presenting an original repertoire, concentrating on compositions where melody mixes with improvisation, creating spaces where the listener can absorb the music without moving away from its fundamental concept, and laying out some fresh tracks completely fusioned with contemporary tendencies. With a more compact sound and a clear demonstration of their evolution as a group, we rediscover that strong live performance which has always been characteristic of them.
    + Kris Davis: Rye Eclipse. FSNT 310. April 08. The pianist has here with him saxophonist Tony Malaby , the Norwegian bass player Eivind Opsvik and drummer Jeff Davis . Composed for the 2007 Canadian festival tour, the quartet premiered the works in five different festivals across Canada. This set reflects the trust this group has developed from performing together for so many years, making this recording an exciting and edgy listening experience.

    + Jordi Rossy Trio: Wicca. FSNT 309. Jan. 08. Until today more known for being first of all the drummer in Brad Mehldau's trio but also backing with his sticks Kurt Rosenwinkel or saxophonist Mark Turner, here's his debut album as a pianist with his own trio. Not quite a common trio since besides piano the two other thirds consist of organ and drums! The odd piano-organ combination is quite rich, bringing forward an euphoric amount of possibilities that move away from the piano trio traditional setting, in an unusual space, without stylistic references, urging the players to find new forms picked up from the intimate universe of every one in the band. A Unique work, maximum quality with fresh ideas and ensured surprises.
    + The Alon Farber Hagiga Sextet: Optimistic View. FSNT 307. Jan. 08. Farber, here on soprano and baritone sax, definitely has his own unique voice in his compositions. His unit walks around an interesting combination of both advanced jazz and Jewish music, filled with talent by altoist Hagai Amir, pianist Omri Mor, guitarist and oud player Amos Hoffman , bassist Hagai Cohen-Milo and band’s co-founder Dani Benedikt on drums. A record for anyone who is wanting to hear a new voice emerging in the jazz scene.
    + Raynald Colom: Sketches Of Groove. FSNT 306. Jan. 08. For some reason the mere mention of certain names among music fans will cause a positive stir that is quite hard to explain. In the same way, the music of these artists transmits an infectious energy that makes us expect their performances with heartfelt enthusiasm. That is the case with trumpetist Raynald Colom who delivers here his 2nd album for fresh Sound. The ambition level is placed high: rather big personal, eclectic instrumentation including Rhodes, keyboards, pedal steel guitar among the most uncommon in a straight post bop line-up, the special addition of a human beat box (using the voice as a rhythm instrument) personalized by Aurelio Santos. In short, a much personal input by a growing talent on the way to be internationally recognized
    + Gerald Cleaver: Gerald Cleaver’s Detroit. FSNT 301. Dec. 07. This album is an acoustic self-penned set performed by the group Violet Hour, a sextet led by the drummer that features trumpeter Jeremy Pelt, saxophonists Andrew Bishop and JD Allen, pianist Ben Waltzer and bassist Chris Lightcap.
    + Jordi Matas Organic Trio: Landscape. FSNT 304. Nov. 07. Guitar, Hammond B3, drums trio. This is the 3rd recording for the label and Matas is a fine writer of sometimes dark, sometimes playful electric music that sits solidly in the modern guitar tradition. His hollow body guitar exudes feeling through his emphasis on thoughtful phrasing, balanced notes, and empathy for the music.
    + João Lencastre: Communion One! FSNT 298. August 07. Communion One is a dream that comes true, a top-notch group working under the leadership of eclectic drummer Joao Lencastre. A busy quintet that assembled in Lisbona his exciting melting pot of modern influences in a original introspective way that ranges from the classic 60s hard bop, to the current avant-garde. Recorded half live-half in the studio, this CD are marked by lengthier solos from trumpeter Phil Grenadier, local guitarist André Matos and the always likeable piano work of Bill Carrothers.
    + Dave Allen: Real and Imagined. FSNT 297. August 07. Drawing inspiration from the deep jazz tradition and taking profit of his intricate, flowing lyricism and sheer technical command of the guitar, Dave Allen joins forces again with Seamus Blake on tenor sax and Mark Ferber on drums. On bass is Drew Gress, one of the busiest players in the NYC area.
    + Roger Mas Quintet: Mason. FSNT 296. August 07. The music heard here makes a strong and joyful case for the enduring way of a currently solid quintet of young jazzmen. All-around this CD, pianist Roger Mas makes likeable use of an original sound that quickly sets the recording standard, developing mutual understanding among friends. “Mason” captures the group in terms of freshness, imagination and security just as a extendion of the previous trio work on Fresh Sound New Talent “Among 3” (FSNT-276).
    + Frederic Borey: Maria. FSNT 295. August 07. Recorded in France in 2005, this album presents a French quartet of sax/guitar/bass & drums, the leader being the saxophonist. He is quoted by guitarist Lionel Loueke as being "a composer with a unique voice".
    + The Paislies: S/T. FSNT 294. May 2007. A jazz rock crossover group fronted by drummer Paul Wiltgen and guitarist Jesse Lewis, bringing together musicians from the United States, Luxembourg, Germany, and the Netherlands. The band introduces us his original compositions in its self titled debut album, a set which incorporate elements of modern jazz and improvised instrumental music, fusing an eclectic array of influences into one cohesive sound that is equally at home in both progressive and traditional jazz styles alike. One of the freshest and most exciting voices on the Brooklyn’s musical scene today.
    + Greg Ruggiero: Balance. FSNT 293. May 2007. This album by the Brooklyn-based guitarist is a solid rendition to his main influences: Wes Montgomery, Pat Metheny, Pete Bernstein and Kurt Rosenwinkel, displaying some skills that can be easily heard in his music, a reflection of the experiences and relationships he has developed over the past few years, featuring some of the finest musicians on the scene today.
    + Jostein Gulbrandsen: Twelve. FSNT 291. May 2007. Currently living in New York, Norwegian guitarist Jostein Gulbrandsen is an active musician immerse in the Nu-Jazz scene. He co leads the band Randal and is working on several other projects as the Matt Grason Motel Project, that features rappers like Kokaiy (Steve Coleman), Sub Z and John Moon (Dapp Theory), at the time his recording debut as leader “Twelve”, shows the light. Gulbrandsen plays highly expressive, rhymically complex avant-jazz that sound fresh despite its indebtedness to the downtown New York scene.
    + Ila Cantor Quartet: Mother Nebula. FSNT 288. May 2007. From Brooklyn, New York, influenced by many genres from classical to jazz to rock, young guitarist Ila Cantor just tells kind words on the music of Charlie Christian, Frisell, Zappa, Lou Reed, and Ornette Coleman, among a long list of inspirational icons. She has a captivating quality said by her audiences to be accessible, yet completely original in an ecclectic conversation along his recording debut fronting her own quartet.
    + Giulia Valle Group: Danza Imprevista. FSNT 287. Significant bass players as group leaders are not legions so if you hadd that She is the bass leader, then it's time for Giulia Valle and this self produced and composed masterpiece with some fine backing provided by a group of close friends, attempts to be her best card till now.
    + Samo Salamon NYC Quintet: Government Cheese. FSNT 279. Guitarist Samo Salamon has been influenced by several kinds of music, including classical. While composers like Bartok and Messiaen ignite his imagination, he can also cut a swath out of rock, feed it into his compositions, and get the whole to fit in the thick of modern jazz. The blend often makes for compelling listening. Salamon lets his music speak in several tongues. The CD also benefits of a supporting band of renowned players from the New York jazz scene: Dave Binney (as), Josh Roseman (tb), Mark Helias (b), Gerald Cleaver (d).
    + Orchestra Jazz de Matosinhos: Invites Chris Cheek. FSNT 277. Since 1999, the Orchestra Jazz de Matosinhos has been steadily gaining its place as one of the most original and distinctive musical groups in the current panorama of European big bands. Thanks in part to the intelligent strategy followed by its two mentors, Carlos Azevedo & Pedro Guedes: the gradual development of instrumental consistency and interpretative conscience. Saxophonist Chris Cheek demonstrates every step of the way how he managed to internalize the uniqueness of this repertoire, applying remarkable care, restraint a sensibility to the transformation of always enchanting and creative improvisations into a sort of extension and active complement of the distinctive thematic character of each piece.
    + Michael Felberbaum: Sweetsalt. FSNT 275. Recorded at the Studios de La Seine, Paris, France, December 2 and 3, 2005, this quartet features a rising guitarist and composer whose depth has often brought comparisons with Bill Frisell. With him is the talented French pianist Pierre De Bethmann (also on Rhodes), who was one of the main forces behind the group Prysm. Bassist Darryl Hall and drummer Karl Jannuska complete the line up.
    + Oscar Penas Group: The Return Of Austronautus. FSNT 270. Austronautus was founded in Barcelona four years ago. The music of this group led by guitarist Oscar Penas is firmly rooted in the post-bop mainstream, yet it sounds fresh and distinctive, possessing a quality of lightness coupled with considerable drive.
    + David Smith Quintet: Circumstance. FSNT 267. David Smith is a Canadian-born trumpeter currently residing in New York City. He has previously recorded for for Fresh Sound New Talent with the Delphian Jazz Orchestra and the Alan Ferber Nonet. On this CD he is teamed with another young talent, saxophonist Seamus Blake
    + Hironobu Saito: The Sea. FSNT 266. 2nd album for Fresh Sound by this talented Japanese guitarist, here both on electric and acoustic guitars. His tone is even and full and his chops hint of an early George Benson with smoothness, agility, and control. His seminal bandmates are also impressive, with a potent rhythm section and stellar musicianship. Particular interest goes to pianist Milton Fletcher and saxophonist Walter Smith who provide outstanding lead voices along with the guitarist.
    + Bruce Arkin Quartet: Wake Up! FSNT 265. This is the first release by this saxophonist from New York who lives now in Barcelona and currently plays with Kurt Rosenwinkel among many others. In “Wake up” he plays his own compositions brilliantly accompanied by Albert Bover (p), Chris Higgins (b) and Jorge Rossy (dms).
    + Hat: Hi Ha. FSNT 264. This new jazz quartet is formed by talented Catalonian musicians as Sergi Sirvent (piano, Rhodes and vocals), Jordi Matas (guitar), Marc Cuevas (bass) and Oscar Domenech (drums). Influenced by the blues, rock, pop, free and reggae, they play original compositions in which each one of the member gives a great part of his own personality.
    + Mikkel Ploug Group: featuring Mark Turner. FSNT 263. The Danish guitarist has with him another Dane, bassist Jeppe Skovbakke. The young creative musicians meet one of the most influential and in demand saxophonists on today’s jazz scene: Mark Turner. The music consists of originals written by Mikkel and it’s both melodic and challenging.
    + Eli Digibri: Emotionally Available. FSNT 262. With Aaron Goldberg (p, Fender Rhodes), Ben Street (b), Jeff Ballard (d) and Ze Mauricio (pandeiro). 2nd album for the label by a young saxophonist who currently performs and tours with the legendary drummer Al Foster, the Charles Mingus Big Band, as well as his own Eli Degibri Quintet.
    + Nicolas Masson: Yellow (a little orange). FSNT 261. Born and raised in Switzerland, saxophonist and composer Nicolas Masson, here also featured on bass clarinet, presents us his quartet with among other drummer Gerald Cleaver
    + Jordi Berni Trio & Santi de la Rubia: Afinke. FSNT 260. Featuring: Jordi Berni (p), David González (b), Xavi Hinojosa (d), Santi de la Rubia(ts)
    + Gian Tornatore: Blackout. FSNT 259 featuring: Gian Tornatore (s), Nate Radley (g), Jon Anderson (Fender Rhodes), Thompson Kneeland (b), Jordan Perlson (d)
    + Taylor Haskins: Metaview. FSNT 258 featuring: Taylor Haskins (tp, kb, perc), Andrew Rathbun (ts, ss), Adam Rogers (g), Matt Penman (b), Mark Ferber (d, gong)
    + Santi Careta Group: Obertura. FSNT 257. In addition to collaborating with other young up-and-coming Catalonian jazz musicians (such as Sergi Sirvent), guitarist Careta is leading his own group, a newly formed Catalan jazz group that performs its own music mixing jazz with funk, reggae and latin influences.
    + Bob Reynolds: Can't Wait For Perfect (USA). FSNT 255. Debut album by a musician who creates a sound that, while still jazz, does not fall into the conventional categories of bebop or standards, fusion or smooth-jazz, or even mainstream contemporary jazz. With hints of soul, funk and rock, it is jazz that swaggers as much as it swings. Featuring: Bob Reynolds (ts, ss, synth), Aaron Goldberg (p,Fender Rhodes), Reuben Rogers (ab), Eric Harland (d), Mike Moreno (g), David Soler (g)
    + Kris Davis: The Slightest Shift (USA). FSNT 256. With Tony Malaby (ts), Eivind Opsvik (b), Jeff Davis (d). While this record is a collective statement by 4 creative musicians, what one hears is Kris Davis' voice. Her playing can evoke Monk, Bartók, Paul Bley, or Ligeti, but what makes an artist truly creative is that unnamable element or disposition that enables one to go beyond what any such synthesis might suggest. Kris is doing just that.
    + Sebastian Noelle Quartet: Across the river (USA). FSNT249. Features his quartet, with Donny McCaslin (Maria Schneider Orchestra, Dave Douglas Quintet) on tenor sax, Ari Hoenig (Kenny Werner Trio) on drums, Ben Street (Kurt Rosenwinkel Quartet, Danilo Perez Trio) on double bass and himself on guitar.
    + Ismael Dueñas / Marc Cuevas / Oscar Domenech: Mirage. FSNT244. This outstanding trio with a collective spirit and leadered by Catalan pianist Ismael Dueñas offers a new vision of jazz mixing it with elements of Dub, Afro, indian ragas índias and impressionism of Ravel, Stravinsky, free jazz or Metal.
    + Bill Carrothers: Shine Ball. FSNT242. Bill Carrothers (prepared piano), Gordon Johnson (acoustic bass), Dave King (drums, waterphone).
    + Ramon Diaz: Dialeg (2005). FSNT241. Ramon Diaz is a consolidated musician in the Spanish jazz scene. In this, his third work for Fresh Sound New Talent, he shows his maturity as a leader and composer. He was born in the Canary Islands and has been living in Barcelona since 1987. He has always received positive reviews, both for his recordings and live performances, full of energy and ingenuity. His current band features the Danish saxophonist Jeppe Rasmussen.
    + Klemens Marktl: Ocean Avenue. FSNT240. Recorded in Brooklyn in 2004. The sound of the drummer's new album recorded with Fresh Sound New Talent artists Chris Cheek, Aaron Goldberg and Matt Penman, is espacially characterized by the modern sound of the leader's strong compositions. These compositions are a mixture between complex rhythms and very calm and atmospherically melodies.
    + Jordi Matas Quintet: Racons. FSNT236. 2nd album and one of the most interesting formations in Barcelona’s jazz scene today, not only thanks to Jorge Rossy (here on piano and Rhodes), one of the most renowned Catalan jazzmen, but also thanks to Matas’ compositional strength and the vitality they transmit in every note.
    + Chris Cheeks: Blues Cruise. FSNT-235. On his fourth CD for Fresh Sound New Talent, Chris Cheek is endorsed by the original Brad Mehldau quartet. Chris Cheek (ts,ss), Brad Mehldau (p,fender rhodes), Jorge Rossy (dms), Larry Grenadier (b). Recorded by James Farber at Avatar Studios, NYC, March 16 & 17, 2005
    + The Heckler - Juan Pablo Balcazar Group: Heckler City. FSNT-232. The Heckler is a quartet influenced by contemporary urban jazz sounds found mainly in New York and Barcelona’s underground. Present-day jazz in which you’ll hear music elements from pop-rock, new-bop and free jazz; elements always treated with the acoustic format, a way to guarantee a very jazzy sound.
    + Loren Stillman: It Could Be Anything. FSNT-230. This young alt saxophonist has already gained a very individualistic sound and composing style. His present quartet features drummer Jeff Hirshfield
    + Arthur Kell Quartet: Traveller. FSNT-229. Arthur Kell, born in Winchester, Massachusetts, has performed with a wide cross-section of the New York jazz community and in most major U.S. cities as well as in France, Germany, Belgium, Holland and Italy.
    + The Alan Ferber Hagiga Quintet: Exposure. FSNT-228. The Hagiga Quintet, formed in 2001 in Tel-Aviv joins together five musicians who seek new connections with jazz and contemporary music. The Hagiga is a unique group that combines original compositions, in various styles (swing, funk, latin jazz, jazz) with group improvisation and free interaction. The compositions are inspired by the music of Wayne Shorter and Dave Douglas. From there the Hagiga takes off to create a new exciting atmosphere, spiced with mediterranean taste.
    + Manuel Valera Trio: Historia. FSNT 227. Cuban pianist, bandleader, composer and arranger, Manuel Valera is in the forefront of contemporary modern jazz. He represents the next generation of great performers and composers. His sound is fresh, inviting and evocative, and his goal is to forge innovative sounds that bring a vitality and newness to the idioms of jazz and Latin jazz. He is constantly workshopping musical ideas to develop new composition and arranging techniques that bring together Cuban, Puerto Rican, Brazilian and various jazz styles and forms. For his third album, “Historia”, he recorded with bassist Ben Street and drummer Antonio Sanchez. Saxophonist Seamus Blake is featured on two tracks.
    + Matt Renzi: The Cave. FSNT 226. A San Francisco native, tenor saxophonist/clarinetist Matt Renzi presents here his trio.
    + Michael Kanan & Nat Su: Dreams and Reflections. FSNT 225. Recorded in New York City, 2004. Free improvised music without any preset things, pure conversation and ideas exchange between piano and alt sax.
    + Alan Ferber Nonet: Scenes from an Exit Row. FSNT 224. This group, comprised of some of the brightest young talent in NYC, serves as an outlet for new works and arrangements for mid-sized ensemble. The instrumentation includes trumpet, trombone, alto sax, tenor sax, bass clarinet, guitar, piano, bass, and drums.
    + Don Peretz: Foremen. FSNT221. Recorded at Maggie’s Farm Pipersville, PA, 2003. Foremen is a drummer led quartet with a drummer-less focus in sound. Don Peretz Foremen is an exploration of free improvised music through the roots of melody and song.
    + Dave Allen: Untold Stories. FSNT 220. David Allen is a guitarist and composer based in New York City. His music is both lyrical and challenging, combining memorable melodies with complex harmonies and shifting rhythms. Allen's debut CD, "Untold Stories", is from 2004 and features saxophonist Seamus Blake.
    + Eivind Opsvik: Overseas II. FSNT219. This is the second leader-session by the acclaimed Norwegian composer and bassist Eivind Opsvik for Fresh Sound New Talent. Being from Norway Eivind's music is a combination of two worlds; the European and the New York jazz scene. European melody and space combined with the grooves/rhythms and intensity of New York. Essential listening for all fans of new and interesting jazz mixed with pop sensibilities and a fresh breath of northern air.

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    INTAKT RECORDS .... INTAKT RECORDS .... INTAKT RECORDS .... INTAKT ....

  • Anker / Courvoisier / Mori: Alien Huddle (Intakt IN 144). Sept. 08. This all-women trio was recorded in 2006 in New York. If pianist Sylvie Courvoisier and electronic wizzard Ikue Mori are known to most of you, my guess is that few know Danish saxophonist Lotte Anker, though some of you may have heard her in Tim Berne's band. All three of them have actually been members of his band and this somehow gives a cue about the musical inspiration and direction followed by the trio
  • Conrad Bauer: Hummelsummen (IN 085). Solo trombone recorded in a church in march 2002.
  • Billiger Bauer: Edges & Friends. Intakt IN 112. Jan. 07. Young Swiss collective born from the post 68 generation and gathered around saxophonistOmri Ziegele. Brilliant ideas, audacious arrangements, great team work, are the ingredients of a music already building tomorrow's jazz!
  • Co Streiff Sextet: Loops, Holes, Angels. Intakt IN119. April 07. Jazz especially attracted by the African sounds (especially the bellaphon) and in a vein not unlike The Art Ensemble of Chicago or Sun Ra.
  • Sylvie Courvoisier: Lonelyville. Intakt IN120. April 07. With husband Mark Feldman, the French cellist Vincent Courtois, the Japanese laptop specialist Ikue Nori and drummer Gerald Cleaver
  • Andrew Cyrille & Anthony Braxton: Duo Palindrome 2002 vol.1.
  • Demierre / Guy / Niggli: Brainforest (IN 107). Intakt Records.
  • Pierre Favre: Saxophones. Intakt. Featuring Michel Godard and the Arte Saxophone Quartet.
  • Pierre Favre / Yang Jing: Two In One. Intakt IN 114. June 06. The Chinese pipa player (she plays in the National Orchestra and is as well a contemporary composer) met the Swiss percussionist in Peking in 1999. the music is largely improvised.
  • Fred Frith / Arte Quartett: Still Urban. Intakt Records (IN 155) + The Big Picture (IN 156). March 09. The British guitarist is here playing electric guitar, facing a saxophone quartet and interpreting some of his best compositions. Recorded in Zurich in 2008
  • Fred Frith / Chris Brown: Cutter Heads. Intakt IN 124. Sept. 07. They met within the ensemble Orkestrova and at the Center for Contemporary Music (CCM)of the Mills College, Oakland, USA, where they both teach. Directed contemporary improvisations, (de)constructions for guitar, piano and computer, this is what you'll find in there!
  • Globe Unity Orchestra: 40 Years. Intakt IN133. Jan. 08. Recorded in studio in Baden Baden or live at the Jazz Fest 2006 in Berlin, here's the commemoration of 40 years in the life of an illustrious and impressive collective founded in 1966. The line-up is in itself a who's who of the free improvised scene, including Kenny Wheeler, Manfred Schoof, Jean Luc Capozzo, Axel Dörner, Evan Parker, Gerd Dudek, Ernst-Ludwig Petrowsky, Rudi Mahall, George Lewis, Paul Rutherford, Jeb Bishop, Johannes Bauer, Alexander Von Schlippenbach, Paul Lovens and Paul Lytton. By constantly requestioning themselves, the band succeeded in renewing themselves and their music is today as fresh as it was in 1966!
  • Globe Unity Orchestra: Globe Unity 2000 (IN 086).
  • Barry Guy & The London Jazz Composers Orchestra: Study II, Stringer (Intakt IN 095). Stringer was originally released on the FMP label in 1983 while Study II dates from 91. The use of the silence brings us back to John Cage while it is also noteworthy to hear what has been borrowed from various ethnic musics
  • Barry Guy New Orchestra: Oort – Entropy. IN 101. Created at the Taktlos Festival, Zürich in 2004.
  • Guy / Parker: Birds And Blades. This release offers 7 studio improvisations and by contrast 4 captured live. The booklet presents a 24 pages long interview of those two friends, either known from the London Jazz Composers(Barry Guy) or The Electro-Acoustic Ensemble(Evan Parker).
  • Guy / Crispell / Lytton: Ithaca. Intakt. The trio takes its inspiration in modern architecture and painting
  • Koch / Schütz / Studer: Tales From 30 Unintentional Nights. Intakt IN 117. Jan. 07. Trio recorded in Zürich in 2005 at the Schlosserei 12. Koch is on clarinet, saxophone and electronics, Schütz on cello and electronics while fredy Studer operates on drums and percussion
  • Oliver Lake / Reggie Workman / Andrew Cyrille: Time Being. Intakt IN 106. June 06. A very mature recording by a solid trio having played together for a long time and able to deliver a real musical alchimy, from bop to free, from avant-garde to world.
  • George Lewis: Sequel. Intakt IN 111. Sept. 06. Sequel is a composition by Lewis, recorded at the New Jazz Meeting in Baden Baden in 2004 and dedicated to Lester Bowie, this recording connects with intelligence the specificities of acoustic music with the current electronic trends: laptop, electronics, turntables, etc... The band is an octet and there are other pieces coming from other recordings in Basel and Rottenburg.
  • Maybe Monday: Unsquare. Intakt IN 132. March 08. Ten years after their first concert, the band - originally a trio consisting of guitarist Fred Frith, saxophonist Larry Ochs and the koto player Miya Mazaoka - celebrates with this release (their third) their anniversary, inflating the trio for this occasion to the size of a septet by inviting old friends like drummer Gerry Hemmingway, violinist Carla Kihlstedt, harpist Zeena Parkins and the electronic wizzard Ikue Mori
  • Phil Minton / Veryan Weston: Ways Out East, Ways Out West. IN 097. A contracted form for piano, organ and voice of a work originally written in 93 for a six voices choir.
  • Louis Moholo-Moholo / Marilyn Crispell: Sibanye (We Are One). Intakt IN145. Dec. 08. First meeting between two major figures of improvised jazz, the South-African drummer meeting the American pianist
  • Lucas Niggli Drum Quartet: Beat Bag Bohemia. Intakt (IN139). June 08. An all percussive affair led by a member of the band Steamboat Switzerland
  • Niggli Zoom: Rough Ride. Drummer >Lucas Niggli is one of those times big surprises with his approach of blues and rock idioms integrated to a jazz ensemble consisting of trombone, guitar and drums.
  • Lucas Niggli Zoom Ensemble: Sweat. Intakt. Work written for large ensemble, full of contrasts and changes of tempi. Revives the spirit of Frank Zappa
  • Niggli Big Zoom: Big Ball. Recorded at the Willisau festival and a club in Zürich. This one adds bass and clarinet to the ensemble.
  • Sten Sandell Trio: Oval. Intakt IN 122. Jan. 07. The pianist (and singer) is recorded here in Zürich in 2005 together with the more and more afterthought drummerPaal Nilssen-Love and bass player Johan Berthling.
  • Elliott Sharp: Concert in Dachau. Intakt IN 149. June 08. Recorded on May 16,2007 at the Café Teufelhart, this CD presents Sharp on guitar and laptop. This recital has a double symbolic meaning as Sharp is the son of Jewish immigrants who escaped the holocaust
  • Irene Schweizer: First Choice. Intakt IN 108. Sept. 06. Compositions by the Swiss lady, interpreted and recorded at the Congress Cultural Center of Luzern in 2005 in a concert room which is said to have one of the best acoustic property in the world!
  • Irene Schweizer: Portrait (IN 105). The label Intakt wanted to celebrate the 20 years career of the Swiss pianist and gives us this CD + book presenting her in company of many collaborators.
  • Irene Schweizer: Live At Taktlos. IN 001. Reissue of a mythical album released on LP in 1986.
  • Schweizer / Anderson / Drake: Live Willisau & Taktlos. Intakt IN 104. Jan. 07. Tenor saxophonist Fred anderson and drummerHamid Drake know each other since their prime youth in Louisianna. As Drake recently played regularly with the Swiss pianist Irene Schweizer , it was unavoidable they would play together. Mathematics can be tricky as here 2+2=3 !
  • Aki Takase / Silke Eberhard: Ornette Coleman Anthology. Intakt IN129. Sept. 07. Two women, one on piano, the other on alto sax and clarinets, are dedicating this music to a great man for a personal and audacious celebration of his music
  • Aki Takase / Lauren Newton: Spring In Bangkok IN 110. April 2006. Recorded in 2004 in a club in Berlin
  • Trio 3 & Geri Allen: At This Time. Intakt (IN162). Recorded in 2008 at the Birdland, here's a meeting of great musicians who all have been at some time playing with pianist Geri Allen: drummer Andrew Cyrille played on Geri's first album, bass player Reggie Workman invited Geri on his album Cerebral Caverns from 1995 and finally saxophonist Oliver Lake (here on alt sax and flute) had Geri on many of his albums as well as in his groups.
  • Trio 3 + Irene Schweizer: Berne Concert. Intakt IN150. Dec. 08. Recorded during the Taktlos Festival in 2007, the New York trio affiliated to the history of the New Thing (Reggie Workman, andrew Cyrille and Oliver Lake) invites the Swiss pianist veteran and unavoidable figure of the European jazz.
  • Alexander Von Schlippenbach Trio: Pakistani Pomade. atavistic ALP 240. June 06. This recording of 1972 with Evan Parker and Paul Lovens is now available with 20 mn of bonus material
  • Priska Walss & Gabriela Friedli: Intervista (IN 087). Two women, one on trombone and alphorn, the second on organ and piano, give us here their art of modern story telling, taking risks in their duo improvisations.
  • Zentralquartett: 11 Songs (Intakt IN 113). This ensemble from the ex DDR set the free jazz scene on fire at their beginning. This record is their 4th for Intakt and revisits in 11 songs the classical German repertoire - the Volkslieder from the Middle Age. Among them the famous "Es War Ein König in Thule" heard in Goethe's "Faust". The musicians were trombonist Conrad Bauer, drummer Günter Sommer, pianist Ulrich Gumpert and alt saxophonist, clarinetist Ernst-Ludwig Petrowsky

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    LEO RECORDS .... LEO RECORDS .... LEO RECORDS .... LEO RECORDS ....

  • Aardvark Jazz Orchestra: Trumpet Madness. LR 423. 4th record for Leo. This 28 piece orchestra is led by trumpetist Mark Harvey and is here recorded in concert in Cambridge. Dense and tight harmonies.
  • Actis Band: Allende. LR462. June 06. the new compositions by the saxophonist swing between jazz, punk, funk, avant-rock and world music.
  • Actis Band: Garibaldi. The band led by the italian saxophonist Carlo Actis is a wild mix of avant-garde & funky beats and covers a wide stylistic field.
  • Actis Dato / Martinez: Folklore Imaginario. Sept. 2005. LR 447. Baritone sax or bass clarinet against acoustic bass. A *deep* meeting!!
  • Adler / Chauncy / Lloyd / Palmer / Wachsmann: Apparitions (LR 408). Strings, winds, electronic, young lions and old masters of the British improvisation school here together with the same motivation and freshness
  • Anker / Taborn / Cleaver: Triptych. Oct. 2005. LR 441. The Danish female saxophonist from the Copenhagen Art Ensemble is heard here in fine trio company, pianist Craig Taborn (sideman by James Carter, Art Ensemble of Chicago) and drummer Gerald Cleaver.
  • Bennink / Nabatov: Chat Room
  • Anthony Braxton Ninetet: (Yoshi's) 1997 / Vol 4. Leo Records LR500-501. Jan. 08. This 2CD is the 4th volume of the Ghost Trance Music sessions recorded in the Oakland club in 1997. Features among other bass player Joe Fonda
  • Anthony Braxton: With the Creative Orchestra (LR 453-454). 2CD recorded in 94 in London. The works played here are closer to contemporary classical writing than jazz.
  • Anthony Braxton Quartet: Birmingham 1985. LR 202-03. With Marylin Crispell: piano, Gerry Hemmingway: drums and Mark Dresser: bass.
  • Anthony Braxton Quintet: (London) 2004 / Live At The Royal Festival Hall. LR 449. This concert was airplayed on Christmas's eve 2004 by the BBC and gave Braxton and his band a standing ovation.
  • Anthony Braxton Ninetet: (Yoshi’s) 1997 / Vol 3. 2CD ( LR 420-421) from the mythical marathon residency, six nights in Oakland where the saxophonist developped his concept of Ghost Trance Music.
  • Anthony Braxton: Ninetet (Yoshi’s) 1997 Vol.2. 2CD filled by compositions 209 & 210 (one per CD).
  • Anthony Braxton: Two Compositions 1998. This follows the series "Ghost Trance Music" and presents a collective of 3 saxophonists, one clarinetist and one bassoonist.
  • Anthony Braxton: 23 Standards (Quartet) 2003. Leo Records. This 4CD boxset includes interpretations of standards by Monk, Coltrane, Porter, Brubeck, Hancock, Rivers … presenting a very talented new guitarist: Kevin O’Neil
  • Anthony Braxton / Walter Franks: Improvisations 2004. LR 429-430. 2CD of rhapsodic compositions and a meeting with the Argentinean pianist.
  • Anthony Braxton / György Szabados / Vladimir Tarasov: Triotone (LR 416). Recording from a Montenegro festival and high level improvisations
  • Burt / Mac Donald Sextet: Boohoo Fever. Leo Records LR 472. DEc. 06. An impressive sextet led in tandem by guitarist George Burt and sax player Mac Donald, further more pushed at work by the presence of pianist Keith Tippett
  • Carr / Nord / Hofmann / Maddox: Biosphere. LR 456. June 06. 2nd album by this jazz group from Oregon, USA
  • Carr/Nord/Hofmann: In Walks Art. Violin, guitar & electronics, dms & percussion. Improvised music rich in timbers, sensitive, abstract.
  • François Carrier: Happening (Leo Records LR 451-452). One of the most interesting artists from the free jazz scene in Quebec is here recorded in Montreal in April 2005. With him the always surprising viola player Mat Maneri but also Uwe Neumann on sitar, sanza and more, on top of an acoustic bass + drums rythm section
  • Eugene Chadbourne: Adventures At the Guitar Festival. The Greetings Fellow Pickers was a festival about the guitar organized in New York in 99. The 2CD is a testimony of all those guitar meetings and musical creations
  • The Clarinet Trio: Ballads & Related Objects (LR 415). Gebhard Ullmann: bass clarinet, Jürgen Kupke: clarinet and Michael Thieke: alto clarinet & clarinet
  • The Collective Quartet: Moving Along (LR 418). Featuring bassist William Parker and percussionist Heinz Geisser
  • The Collective Quartet: Synopsis. Heinz Geisser, Mark Hennen, Jeff Hoyer & William Parker invite us to their 4th release on Leo Records and show themselves deeply involved in the cause of advanced free jazz.
  • Duval / McPhee: Undersound 2. The follower of the record from 2000. With John Heward on drums
  • Enrico Fazio Septet: Live In Milano. LR 424. Very Mingusian in its spirit!
  • The Fonda / Stevens Group: Twelve Improvisations. Leo Records. Featuring Daunik Lazro and Herb Robertson.
  • Mevel Gaël Trio: Danses Parallèles
  • Slava Ganelin & Esti Kenan Ofri: Birds Of Pasage. E.K.Orfi is a known interpreter of classical arabic music. Here's a surprising meeting with the keyboardist S. Ganelin where classical meets jazz, traditions and improvisations
  • the Ganelin Trio is back in the actuality!
    - 15 Year Reunion
    - Soviet New Jazz Vol.4 (a 4CD boxset)
    are two releases due to Leo Records.
  • Gebhard Ullmann / Dahlgren / Rosen: Cut It Out. LR 457. June 06. A very good opportunity to hear a rarely played instrument, the bass flute, together with bass clarinet and backed by a rhythm section featuring one of the finest sticks in current improvised music, Mr. Jay Rosen
  • Gratkowsi / Lehn / Poore: Triskaidekaphonia. LR 461. June 06. Improvisations recorded at the Köln loft in 2004. A kind of free minimalism for a huge frequency range covered by bass clarinet, clarinet, bass, analog synth, tuba and euphonium.
  • Guyvoronsky / Kondakov / Volkov: In Search Of A Standard. Leo Records (LR 544). Oct. 09. Pianist Andrei Kondakov and bass player Vladimir Volkov have been previously associated with members of the Moscow Art Trio. Here, together with trumpetist and vocalist Vyacheslav Guyvoronsky, they have come up with a special project to compose their original pieces with references to jazz standards. The sensitive ear will recognize glimpses of Duke Ellington or Miles Davis. However, they are not aping Americans. Their references are a part of their original compositions.
  • Harada / Maneri: The Soul With Longing For Dim Hills And Faint Horizons. Oct. 2005. LR 442. Duo piano/viola. Harada, here on piano only, is also known as multi instrumentalist, composer, orchestra director, dancer, painter and is a youth friend of Maneri!
  • Carolyn Hume / Paul May: Wet Map. Ambient explorations and guest improvisors (voice, guitar)
  • Achim Kaufmann: Knives (LR 409). Solo Piano.
  • Steve Lacy / Joëlle Léandre: One More Time. LR 422. From Belgium in 2002
  • Joëlle Léandre & William Parker: Live at Dunois. Leo Records (LR 535). June 09. Le Dunois, a Parisian club that was between 1976 and 1988 the temple of jazz in its improvised forms, is again at the occasion of the 2009 Festival Sons d'Hiver the center of an exceptional meeting between two bass legends, 11 years after their first duo album
  • Joëlle Léandre / Akosh S.: Kor. Leo Records LR522. Dec. 08. Recorded at the Olympic Café in Paris, here's the powerful meeting between the always creative bassist and the much expressive Hungarian saxophonist
  • Joelle Léandre: At Le Mans Jazz Festival. LR 458-459. June 06. The bass player was artist in residency at the jazz festival and the best of her historical meetings is gathered now on this CD, allowing us to hear among other: Les Diaboliques (with Maggie Nichols & Irene Schweitzer), William Parker, Carlos Zingaro, Mark Nauseef, Markus Stockhausen, etc...
  • Joëlle Léandre / Lauren Newton: Face It ! (Leo Records LR 450). A great meeting of "sacred" musicians, recorded during a concert from 2005 at the jazz festival of Le Mans, France.
  • Léandre/Maneri/Marguet/Ryan: For Flowers. Leo records. Project led by Léandre
  • Ramon Lopez: Flowers Of Peace. Sept. 2005. LR 438. Recorded by the French radio station France Musique in May 2004. With pianist Sophia Domancich and bassist
  • Mat Maneri Trio: For Consequence. lr 360. New recording with Ed Schuller on bass and Randy Peterson on drums.
  • Mitchell / Haynes: Urban Choreographic. Leo Records LR 466. Sept. 06. 2nd album by this duo, Matthew Mitchell being playing on guitar and electronic while Duncan Haynes is on the piano.
  • Livio Minafra: La Dolcezza Del Grido. Piano solo and debut album of Pino Minafra’s son.
  • Mitchell / Haynes: Biathanatos. Leo Records. Guitar & electronic + piano by musicians from New Zealand. Allround improvised music also calling for various folklores (Baltic and Slavic).
  • Momentum 4: Rising Fall. Oct. 2005. LR 440. 4th album by this quartet, this time made of piano (also prepared)/bass clarinet/saxes/tuba.
  • Simon Nabatov Trio: Autumn Music. Leo Records. Piano/cello/dms trio
  • Nabatov / Rainey: Steady Now. Leo Records LR 463. Sept. 06. They have worked together since the 90's in various contexts but this is their first recording as duo! The first is a raising star on the piano and the second is a confirmed drummer on the free jazz scene
  • Nauseef / Mori / Courvoisier / Quintus: albert. Leo Records LR 465. Sept. 06. This is a recording in homage to the Swiss chemist Albert Hofmann who turned 100 years in January this year. Psychedelic improvisations conducted by 4 experts in sound travelling!
  • Lauren Newton / Patrick Scheyder / Vladimir Tarasov: Artesian Spirits. LR 419. Concert recorded in Georgia in 2003.
  • O'leary / Storlokken / Braekhus: St. Fin Barre's. Leo Records LR 526. Jan. 09. Recorded in the cathedral of Cork, Irland, in November 2002, this album features Stale Storlokken on organ. Storlokken is today most known for his membership in the cult group Supersilent but he has also been member of Terje Rypdal's trios.
  • O'Leary / Kang / Van Der Schyff: Zemlya. Leo Records LR507. June 08. Post free-jazz, prog rock, Korean Court music and electronics, here's the improbable mix suggested by the 3 musicians. Zemlya means planet in Russian and maybe illustrates the ambition of the project
  • O'Leary / Wollesen / Saft: The Synth Show. Leo Records LR 521. Sept. 08. For his 8th album on Leo Records, the Irish guitarist Mark O'Leary decided to push further the borders of his eclectism. This new mix, recorded in Brooklyn, is not afraid of stylistic clashes and free jazz, pop, fusion or electro jazz are not left untouched or aside. The great Jamie Saft on keyboards, together with drummer Kenny Wollesen also share with great pleasure the responsability in this provocative and abrasive destabilisation, eye opening work
  • O’Leary / Vu / Rainey: Waiting. Leo Records LR 475. March 07. Homage to Samuel Beckett with a rather free approach by 3 experienced musicians: the Irish guitarist O'Leary, the trumpetist of the Pat Metheny Group and the American drummer Tom Rainey.
  • O’Leary / Swallow / Favre: Awakening. Leo Records LR 460. Sept. 06. The new trio by the guitarist presents us with a subtile and melodious writing
  • O’Leary / Caine / Perowsky: Closure (Leo Records LR 448). Trio led by the Irish guitarist, heard with many great such as Jack de Johnette, Paul Bley, Matthew shipp, Mat Maneri or Billy Hart
  • O’leary / Maneri / Shipp: Chamber Trio. LR 425. 3 pupils of Charles Ives with a nearly telepathic connivence
  • O'Leary / Stanko / Hart: Levitation. Oct. 2005. LR 445. Guitarist Mark O'Leary, who recorded with Matthew Shipp, Mat Maneri & Ralph Peterson ( Self Luminous - LR 426) is here in the royal company of drummer Billy Hart and trumpetist, ECM artist Thomasz Stanko.
  • Pago Libre: Stepping Out (LR 444). 4th album for Leo Records by this quartet featuring the incredible Russian hornist Arkady Shilkloper. The band has been described as the Weather Report of the 21st century! the record gives us anyway an acoustic fusion played with exceptional musicianship
  • Pago Libre: Phoenix / Live In Salzburg & Zürich. 3rd album recorded live after the triumph received during their chinese tour. This band features the horn virtuoso Arkady Shilkloper, here on saxophone. Exquisively written music with a basis in roots.
  • Pandelis Karayorgis: 17 Pieces (LR 417). First solo piano recording by this musician usually met with the Maneri family (Joe & Mat)
  • Evan Parker & September Winds: Alder Brook. New collaboration between Evans and a richly extended wind quartet (bass clarinet, taragot, tubax, trombone, saxes) from Switzerland.
  • Evan Parker & September Winds: Short Stories. LR 428. Brassy album.
  • Ivo Perelman: Introspection (Leo Records LR 455). The saxophonist keeps exploring the possibilities of string instruments, here with violinist Rosie Hertlein and the American bass player Dominique Duval. The group's sound shifts between classical trio and jazz quartet.
  • Potage Du Jour: S/T (Leo Records LR 443). Trio from Berne, Switzerland. A mix of cabaret jazz, film musics, salsa, electronics and sound performance.
  • Radio Free Europa: Underground Jazz Trio. Leo Records LR 490. July 07. 7th album by guitarist Mark O'Leary, here with the drummer of Tortoise and the bassist of Isotope 217. Inspired post-jazz!
  • The Wally Shoup Trio: Fusillades & Lamentations. This saxophone/bass/drums trio is a major talent of new jazz with a quite unique timber.
  • Shoup/Makihara/Arnold: Confluxus. Leo Records. Alt sax/Dms/Cello
  • Ariel Shibolet: Metal Tube & Consciousness (LR 414). The new name for sopran sax!
  • Wally Shoup Trio: Blue Purge (LR 412). New trio described by the critics as “Fire Music with a lot of Soul”
  • Wadada Leo Smith: Snakish. LR 435. Maybe the new way Miles Davis would have chosen if he didn't embark the fusionish boat of his late years. Walter & Katia Quintus respectively on computer and voice, Mark Nauseef on percussion and electronics, Miroslav Tadic on guitars
  • Soegaard / Poulsen: ... And We Also Caught A Fish. LR 436. Two Danish guitarists, Fredrik Soegaard playing a MIDI controlled instrument and harmonizer, Hasse Poulsen (now living in France and having rejoined the ECM team in Louis Sclavis group) playing a prepared guitar. One single piece clocking at 65 minutes.
  • The Sun Ra Arkestra: Spring Time In Chicago. Golden Years GY 26-27. Dec. 06. Taken from the band's archives, this is the integrality of their concert in Chicago in 1978.
  • Sun Ra: The Piano Recital, Venezia, 1977. Released on the Golden Years label (a subdivision of Leo Records).
  • Szilard Mezei International Ensemble: Draught (Leo Records LR 447). This Hungarian altist pays homage with his octet to jazz composers like Ellington, Mingus, Sun Ra or Braxton while staying nevertheless attached to his Hungarian roots. Recorded in Vojvodine at the 10th jazz festival of Servia Montenegro.
  • Cecil Taylor: Chinampas / Hot Points. Leo Records (LR 153). Oct. 09. Reissue of a long time OOP solo performance from London in 1987, the most unusual being that the pianist doesn't here plays the instrument but instead is featured on tympani, bells, percussion, voice and poetry reading
  • Trio & Sainkho: Forgotten Streets Of St Petersburg. Sept. 2005. LR 439. Here facing a trio of Russian blowers
  • Vinz Vonlanthen: (Œil) Solo Guitar (LR 413). Those direct recordings without overdubs show the range of sounds applied to prepared guitar by the Belgian musician.
  • Schlippenbach / Takase / Dj Illvibe: Lok 03. LR 427. The two pianists face here a DJ from Berlin

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    NEW LABEL DISTRIBUTED! MARGE & FUTURA from France

    The label led by Gérard Terronès is a beautiful source of treasures. You'll find here rare recordings from the past on French territory, live or in studio and new bands on the way up as well. Enjoy!

  • Pepper Adams Quartet: Live in Europe (1977). Impro 02
  • Tribute To Albert Ayler: Live At The Dynamo. Marge 45. Oct. 09. Quartet recording with Roy Campbell, Joe McPhee, William Parker, Warren Smith
  • Eric Barrett Septet: My Favourite Songs. Blue Marge 1008. Paris, June 8-9, 2004. Featuring among others the saxophonist (also bass clarinet here) Pierre-Olivier Govin (Ultramarine, Polysoft) and the guitarist Eric Löhrer.
  • Anthony Braxton: Récital Paris 1971. Futura GER 23. Solo concert from Paris, 04 and 09/01/71.
  • Jaki Byard: Parisian Solos. piano solo in Paris, 29/07/71. Futura Swing 05.
  • Roy Campbell / Daniel Carter / William Parker & Hamid Drake: Other Dimensions in Music (Marge 38). Live at the Parisian club Sunset in October 2006. 2CD
  • Ted Curson Ensemble: In Paris (Blue Marge 1009). Recorded in August 2006 with the Alain Jean-Marie trio among others.
  • Ted Curson: In Paris / Live at the Sunside. Blue Marge 1009. 2CD. This is a 12-piece ensemble featuring the following musicians: Alain Jean-Marie trio with Gilles Naturel, Philippe Soirat, Pierrick Pédron, Julie Saury, Guillaume Naturel, Sylvia Howard Daiva Starinskaite, Ferhat Öz, Evrim Özsuca & Jaanica Ventsel. Recorded in August 2006.
  • Domancich / Parker / Drake Trio: Washed Away. Marge 43. 2008. William & Hamid, what a dream team for pianist Sophia Domancich!
  • Johnny Dyani / Mal Waldron: Some Jive Ass Boer. Jazz Unité 102. Paris-La Défense, 16/04/81. Reprint.
  • Ricky Ford Quintet: Green Note / Live at La Fenêtre. Parisian concert from June 28, 2003 with Eddie Henderson (trumpet & bugle), Kirk Lightsey (piano), James Lewis (bass) and Doug Sides (drums). Marge 33
  • Guérineau / Duboc / Lasserre: TER. Marge 36. Trio alto sax / bass & drums, recorded in Paris on September 15, 2005.
  • Siegfried Kessler Trio: Live at the Gill's Club. Futura Ger 10. With Barre Phillips & Steve McCall. This was the first Futura release, recorded in 1969!
  • Steve Lacy: Wordless (Futura Ger 22). Recorded at the Théatre de l'Épée de Bois, Paris on January 4th, 1971. With trumpetist Ambrose Jackson, cellist Irene Aebi, bass player Kent Carter and drummer Jerome Cooper.
  • Frank Lowe Quartet: Tricks of the Trade. Marge 02. Recorded 08/12/76 with Lawrence 'Butch' Morris on cornet, Didier Levallet on bass and George Brown on drums.
  • Luc Rebelles / Fred Malle Luniks Project: Jazz Frelaté. Marge 27. Available again! Luc Rebelles ( soprano and baritone saxophones), Fred Malle (sampler, sound effects), Marc Stutz-Boukouya (trombone), Ray Kaczynski (drums and percussions) and Andrea Walter (electric bass and sound effects). Halluin (France) between February 25 and 27, 2001.
  • Dizzy Reece / John Gilmore Quintet: From In To Out (Futura Ger 16). Quintet recording taken from a live concert in Paris (from 1971). With drummer Art Taylor, the French bass player Patrice Caratini and the late pianist Siegfried Kessler
  • Sonny Sharrock Trio: Dance With Me Montana. Paris-La-Défense, March 29-30, 1982. Marge 20. With Kendall Buchanan: el bass and Levender Cope: drums
  • Hal Singer Septet: Blues And News. Futura Swing 01. Hal Singer (tenor sax), Jacques Bolognési (trombone), Jean-Claude André (guitar), Siegfried Kessler (piano, Hammond organ & flute), Patrice Caratini (bass), Art Taylor (drums) and Alain "Paco" Charlery (percussions). Paris 18/05/71.
  • James Spaulding Quartet : Down With It. Marge 37. With P. Christophe, R. Dever, M. Benhammou.
  • Trio Passeurs: Existences. Marge 44. Digipack Oct. 09. Saxophonist (alto & soprano) Véronique Magdelenat is a new strong voice (cutting, deep and much lyrical) on the French scene. With her is bass player Bernard Santacruz, with his caring voice filled with sweetness and drummer Christian Rollet, the percussive walker and watcher of animated up tempi
  • François Tusques: Piano Dazibao (Futura Ger 14). Solo recording from 1970 by a major actor of the French free jazz scene in the 70's
  • Bernard Vitet Ensemble: La Guêpe. Futura Son 05. Paris 1971. Large ensemble already including tape recorders as instruments.
  • Barney Wilen & Dièse 440: Live In Paris / Théâtre du Forum des Halles (Unpublished recording dated January, 1983). With M. Bertier, G. Loizillon, C. Micheli

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    PALMETTO RECORDS .... PALMETTO RECORDS .... PALMETTO RECORDS ....

  • Ben Allison: Buzz. Palmetto PM 2101. A new record by the american bass player and composer for a music which tries to mix African rhythms and hip hop. Michael Blake: tenor & soprano saxophones; Ted Nash: tenor saxophone & flute; Clark Gayton: trombone & bass trombone; Frank Kimbrough: piano, Wurlitzer & prepared piano; Michael Sarin: drums.
  • David Berkman : Start Here, Finish There. With Dick Oatts (sax), Ugonna Okegwo (b) & Nasheet Waitts (dms). PM2098
  • Richard Davis : The Bassist - Homage to Diversity. With John Hicks (piano). PM 2071
  • Joel Frahm & Brad Mehldau : Don’t Explain. Frahm (ts,ss), Mehldau (p). PM 2096
  • Fred Hersch: Leaves of Grass. Palmetto PM 2107. Works by the US poet Walt Whitmann (1819 - 1892) are the basis of the music here. Many fine contributors are met here like singer Kurt Elling, trumpetist Ralph Alessi, cellist Erik Friedlander or bassist Drew Gress, just to name a few ...
  • Fred Hersch : Fred Hersch trio + 2. Drew Gress (b) - Nasheet Waits (dr) + Ralph Alessi trp/flg), Tony Malaby (ts. PM2099
  • Javon Jackson: Easy Does It. This record shows the interest of Jackson for R&B and funk. It couldn't be much different with people like Fred Wesley/Dr. Lonnie Smith/Lenny White/Mark Whitfield!
  • Lee Konitz & The Axis String Trio : Play French Impressionist Music From the 20 th Century. Debussy, Fauré, Chausson, Satie, Koechlin, Ravel, revisited by Konitz and strings. PM 2064
  • The Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra: A Love Supreme. Palmetto PM 2106. Palmetto has just signed an exclusivity to the Lincoln Center for 3 records to be released within 18 monthes, starting on January 2005. Here is the first, the magnificent Coltrane opus, arranged by trumpetist Wynton Marsalis.
  • Bill Mays: Going Home. Trio piano/vocal, bass & drum.
  • Bill Mays Trio : Summer Sketches. B. Mays (p), Matt Wilson (dr), Martin Wind (b). PM 2070
  • Bobby Previte & BUMP In The Renaissance: Just Add Water. B. Previte (dr). BUMP is : Ray Anderson (trb), Marty Ehrlich (tenor sax), Wayne Horvitz (p), Steve Swallow (b) to which has to be added the guest appearance of Joseph Bowie (trb). PM 2081
  • Dr. Lonnie Smith: Too Damn Hot! Palmetto (PM 2105). 8 groovy personal compositions. Around Smith’s Hammond we’ll find Peter Bernstein (guitar), Greg Hutchinson (drums), Fukushi Tainaka (drums), Rodney Jones (rhythm guitar).
  • Ray Vega : Squeeze, Squeeze. Ray Vega (trumpet, cornet, flugelhorn), Bobby Porcelli (alto sax), Igor Atalita (piano), Greg August (bass), Adam Weber (drums), Wilson "Chembo" Corniel (congas). Latin jazz. PM 2097
  • Wilson/Frahm/Berkman/Allison/Mc Cann: The Other Side of Ellington (Duke's Motivation). Matt Wilson: drums / Joel Frahm: sax / David Berkman: piano / Ben Allison: bass / Pete McCann: guitar. PM 2051. This album was recorded in 1999 by Palmetto artists for the 100 years birthday of Duke Ellington.
  • Mat Wilson Quartet: "Humidity". Two blowers with a rich range of instruments (alto/tenor/soprano sax, bass clarinet, clarinet), a rhythm section with both acoustic and electric bass .... and all musicians playing hand bells!

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    PI RECORDINGS .... PI RECORDINGS .... PI RECORDINGS .... PI RECORD ...

  • Abrams / Lewis / Mitchell: Streaming. PI Recordings PI 22. The 3 important figures of the AACM did meet again after their remarked performance in Venice in 2003. The key word of this recording is "open"!
  • Muhal Richard Abrams: Vision Towards Essence. PI Recordings (PI23). Sept. 07. Piano solo recorded at the Guelph festival in Canada in 1998. This is the first solo album by the AACM pianist since his Montreux recorded performance (Spiral Live) from 1978. We will have just waited 10 years for an album only 3 centuries ahead of its time!
  • Art Ensemble Of Chicago: Non-Cognitive Aspects Of the City / Live At Iridium. PI Recordings PI20. Sept. 06. This CD was recorded during the passage of the ARC at a New York Club between March and April 4, 2004. The ARC was then celebrating their 35th anniversary and drummer Don Moye hadn't yet passed. The two newcomers, bassist Jaribu Shahid and trumpetist Corey Wilkes, are respectively replacing Malachi Favors and Lester Bowie. So this is the rebirth of a phoenix and the first reapparition of the ARC as a quintet.
  • Art Ensemble Of Chicago: Sirius Calling (PI 11). Nov. 04. The 2nd part of the sessions from 2003 and the follower of "The Meeting", both without Lester Bowie!
  • Liberty Ellman: Ophiuchus Butterfly. PI Recordings PI19. June 06. Recorded in January 2006 by a dynamic sextet, the 10 compositions of this 2nd album by the guitarist show the print left by his participation to Henry Threadgill's band (Zooid) as well as his extraordinary open mind, incorporating elements of post-rock, electronica, Ellington or even plain pop.
  • Liberty Ellman: Tactiles. This guitarist is one of the most imaginative and original musicians in New York. This, his second release, will present us the warm, thick and clear sound of his guitar and tube amp.
  • Fieldwork: Simulated Progress. PI 16. 2nd album by the trio of pianist Vijay Yver, featuring this time a new player, Steve Lehman, on alto sax and sopranino.
  • The pianist Vijay Iyer makes the actuality with two recordings:
    - Reimagining. His first quartet album for PI Recordings (PI902), released in 2005 and featuring a superb rereading on piano solo of the song "Imagine" by John Lennon
    - Raw Materials (PI903) from 2006; this is a duo album with saxophonist Rudresh Mahanthappa. Both players are coming from India and have moved musically in the steps of the M'Base movement, created by alt saxophonist Steve Coleman
  • Vijay Iyer: Blood Sutra. PI 901. 5th album by the pianist, continuing to mix his Indian roots with the rythmic complexities of the M'Base school
  • Steve Lehman: Demian As Posthuman (PI 17). Nov. 2005. 9 duo pieces and 3 by quintet. Electro jazz benefitiating of the syncopated grooves of bass funk wizzard Meshell Ndegeocello, the electro researches of Jahi Lake on turntables and synths. Hip Hop, electronica, contemporary chamber music and North American jazz tradition living and pulsing together
  • Rudresh Mahanthappa: Kinsmen. PI Recordings (PI 28). sept. 08. Summit meeting between one of the most enthusiasting saxophonists recently appeared on the international jazz scene and the unrivalled master of karnatic saxophone Kadri Gopalnath. This collaboration, undertitled "A Visionary Synthesis of Modern Jazz and South Indian Music" will appeal to fans of groups like Shakti or Oregon
  • Rudresh Mahanthappa: Mother Tongue (PI 14). The quartet led by this young saxophonist and “rising star” from India plays a music influenced by the rhythmic innovations of Steve Coleman and the exacerbed lyricism of John Coltrane. To be noticed is the presence of the French bass player François Moutin.
  • Roscoe Mitchell "Song For My Sister" recorded together with the Note Factory. It is their latest recording since Roscoe's ECM back to 99.
  • Odyssey The Band: Back In Time (PI 18). This bass-less trio gives plenty of place to the guitar of James "Blood" Ulmer, the violin (with wah-wah) of Charles Burnham (ex member of the New York String Trio) and the drumming of Warren Benbow.
  • The Revolutionary Ensemble: And Now... (PI 13). This is the first studio album in 27 years that this lost mythical collective trio from the 70’s is now giving us to listen to. Leroy Jenkins, still the voice of the abstract, the bassist Sirone offering a more melodic way and finally drummer Jerome Cooper.
  • Marc Ribot: Spiritual Unity. PI 15. This tribute to Albert Ayler features one of his bass players, the newly resurfaced Henry Grimes.
  • Leo Smith / Anthony Braxton: Organic Resonance.
  • Anthony Braxton & Wadada Leo Smith: Saturn, Conjuct The Grand Canyon In A Sweet Embrace. 2nd part of a 2003 concert (1st part also available on the same label)

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    From Polish Jazz Net ... From Polish Jazz Net ... From Polish Jazz Net ...

  • Günter Adler: Live in Asien. Meta Records Meta 016. Released in 2003. Modern jazz by German band featuring Rudi Mahall on bass clarinet, Daniel Erdmann on tenor sax, bassist Johannes Fink and drummer Heinrich Köbberling.
  • Air Acoustic Trio: Rostock. Meta Records (Meta 028). Free chamber music composed and played by Ralf Altrieth: soprano saxophone / Martin Iannaccone: cello / Olaf Rupp: guitar. This trio has a tremendous homogeneous group sound, taken into account that its basis is free improvised music played on the spot
  • Ralf Altrieth / Davide Baldo: Fra Acqua e Cielo. Meta Records (Meta 030). Jazz duo, the first being saxophonist and the second a guitar player from Venice. As the title implies, they present us with an airy and liquid improvised music.
  • Anthony Braxton / Chris Dahlgren: ABCD. NotTwo 2006, MW-768-02. Anthony Braxton: sopranino, soprano, Eb & F alto, baritone & bass saxophones, Bb clarinet. Chris Dahlgren: double bass, preparations and electronics. Recorded by Jon Rosenberg at Wesleyan University, CT (USA), July 5-6, 2003.
  • Dominic Bukowski: Dominic Bukowski & Projektor. Allegro 010. 2005. Contemporary, modern jazz that captures your attention from the start; the leader on vibraphone is helped by two blowers, acoustic bass and drums and finally a musician standing for samplers and live electronics
  • Carter / Blumenkrantz / Zubek: Chinatown. Not Two MW 753-02. Performed by Daniel Carter: tenor & alto saxophones, trumpet, flute, clarinet / Shanir Ezra Blumenkrantz: bass, oud / Kevin Zubek: drums, percussion.
  • The Cosmosamatics: Zetrons. Not Two MW764-2. The Cosmosamatics began life as a avant-garde jazz troupe, an unusual collection of jazz musicians that includes saxophonists Sonny Simmons & Michael Marcus, drummer Jay Rosen and the Japanese bass player Masa Kamaguchi. Recorded live in Poland, Holland and Austria during 2004.
  • Ecstazy Project Trio: Realium. Polish Jazz CD 0089. 2005. Recorded in January 2003, this album offers music inspired by European-ECM sound .... jazz, ambient, new age, whatever, it has much beauty, a fantastic percussion work, gorgeous bass and lots of atmospheres, very visual. The group is a trio composed of Rafal Gorzycki: drums, electronics, Lukasz Gorkiewicz: violin, guitar, piano and Patryk Weclawek: bass, double bass.
  • Eneidi / Kowald / Smith / Spirit: Ghetto Calypso. NotTwo 2006, MW-769-02. Recorded by Myles Boisen on May 3, 2000 at Headless Buda Studio, Oakland, CA. Dedicated to the memory of Peter Kowald, one of the two bassists present here under the leadership of alt saxophonist Marco Eneidi and the rhythmic pulse of drummer Spirit.
  • Jm Trio: Interludium. Allegro 008 (2004). Joachim Mencel, pianist and leader of this trio, graduate of the Katowice Academy of Music - Jazz Department, is one of the most subtle, rich sounding and creative young pianists on the European Jazz scene.
  • Kochan, Jacek: Yearning. GOWI CDG6. 2006. This 2006 release by the Polish drummer blends hard fusion, electronica, bits of free jazz - kinda referencing 70's Miles stuff but definitely of today with solo instruments like quarter tone trumpet, baritone, tenor and soprano saxes, Fender Rhodes piano, live electronics, drums. Let's note the presence this time of the French musician François Corneloup on baritone saxophone.
  • Jacek Kochan: Our Standards. GOWI CDG32 (1996). On this record, the Polish drummer is heard in a more conventional jazz trio, playing standards and own compositions, backed up by Joey Calderazzo on piano and the Swedish bass player Lars Danielsson.
  • Johnny LaMarama. Meta Records (Meta 015). Behind this name is to be found an unconventional trio composed of Chris Dahlgren: bass / Kalle Kalima: guitar / Eric Schaefer: drums.
  • Jacek Kochan: Standard Transmission. GOWI CDG41 (97). Recorded at CBC Studio, Toronto, Canada, June 11th, 1996. Jacek Kochan has with him guitarist John Abercrombie, saxophonist Pat LaBarbera and bass player Jim Vivian.
  • Piotr Lemanczyk: Follow the Soul. Allegro 006 (2003). The leader is a bass player whose playing is characterized by a strong and resolute attack on the string, a deep and full tone, precision of articulation, melodic invention. With him here are no less than 4 tenor saxophonists, a guitarist, a vibraphonist and a drummer.
  • Loud Jazz Band is a Polish “electric jazz” ensemble founded and led by guitarist and composer Miroslaw ”Carlos” Kaczmarczyk. After noteworthy success in Poland, including both award nominations and several live performances with names such as Pat Metheny & Mike Stern, Carlos founded a ”Norwegian edition” of the Loud Jazz Band in 1999. "Don't Stop the Train" (Allegro 007) is from 2004 while "The Way to Salina" (Allegro 009) is from 2005, being also of a more electric vein than the previous one
  • Milosc / Lester Bowie: Not Two. GOWI CDG25 (1997). "Not Two" is a rare document of one of the last recordings by Lester Bowie, joined here by one of the best European jazz and experimental music bands of 1990s scene - Milosc. Mainly, these musicians focus on freeing music from categorization and on blurring genre definitions. These are stunning musicians, versatile, dexterous, and often full of humor. Recorded live on the 19th of November 1997 at the Eskulap Club, Poznan Jazz Fair, Poznan, Poland.
  • Ravish Momin's Trio Tarana: Five Nights. (MW-770). Recorded live at the Smithsonian Institution's Freer Gallery on July 21st, 2005. Features Jason Kao Hwang on violin and Shanir Ezra Blumenkranz on oud and bass. The leader is a drummer/percussionist and has studied with Andrew Cyrille, Bob Moses. (The same trio can also be heard on another CD released on the label Clean Feed (CF030) and titled "Climbing The Banyan Tree")
  • New Connection feat. Greg Osby: S/T. Meta Records (Meta 011). European trio piano, bass & drums, featuring as soloist the American saxophonist Greg Osby.
  • Oles/Trzaska/Oles & Jean-Luc Cappozzo: Suite For Trio +. FM05-001. Recorded on February 27, 2003. The French trumpetist is here servicing the music composed by the Polish drummer Bartlomiej Brat Oles. A haunting and charming album!
  • Marcin Oles featuring Brat Oles, Simon Nabatov and Chris Speed: Walk Songs. Fenommedia, 2006 - FM-06. Recorded at DR Studio, Poland November 22-23, 2005.
  • Adam Pieronczyk Trio: Busem Po Sao Paulo. Meta Records META033. Recorded July 5 & 6, 2005 at Anonimato Estudios in Sao Paulo, Brazil. An absolute highlight of more modern, contemporary jazz with Polish Pieronczyk's own unique sound, innovativeness, fabulously balanced music and tension.
  • Plastiline Black Sheep: S/T. Meta Records (Meta 012). This CD, released in 2001 presents a mixed Polish-German trio sax, bass & drums, featuring the much acclaimed Adam Pieronczyk on sax as well as Johannes Fink on bass and drummer Maurice de Martin. A fresh acoustic and modern sounding trio!
  • Wojtek Staroniewicz: Hand Made. Allegro 005 (2002). This band plays acoustic jazz performed with a set of instruments untypical of this genre. The combination of the sax, accordion and guitar is quite surprising yet interesting. The repertoire is made up of their own pieces although a large number of standards is present as well as spontaneous improvisation. The music is based on the contemporary grooves even though they play without samples nor a DJ. One of the defining albums of the New Polish Jazz!
  • Yá-Sou: Tribute to Don Cherry. GOWI CDG40. Recorded on February 2nd, 1996 at Theatre "Maly", Warsaw, Poland, this CD is made of 3 tracks: a long suite of 26 minutes is the main tribute to trumpetist Don Cherry and features reedman Peter Apfelbaum; the two other tracks also feature trumpetist Tomasz Stanko and the ethnic progressive group Osjan

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    PREMONITION RECORDS .... PREMONITION RECORDS .... PREMONITION RECO...

  • Patricia Barber: Many of her records are now available again: Night Club, Café Blue, Modern Cool, Verse
  • Patricia Barber: Split: (PRE 742). Her very beginning in 1989 in classic jazz trio and playing standards repertoire (Early Autumn, Two for the Road or Too Late Now)
  • Bobbybroom: Stand ! (PRE 754). Popular music and hits from the 60’s and 70’s revisited by a trio guitar/bass/drums whose guitarist and leader accompanied in the past stars like Miles Davis, Sonny Rollins or Dr. John
  • Ann Dyer & No Good Time Fairies: Revolver / A New Spin (PRE 745). Yes, this is a revisiting of the Beatles’s album “Revolver” by a female singer and her group from San Francisco. The album went unfairly unnoticed as it was released. A new chance at hand!
  • Douglas / Sclavis / Lee / Van Der Schyff: Bow River Falls (PRE 765). Recorded in the wild Canadian mountains and presenting us both written and improvised compositions.
  • Drew Gress: The Irrational Numbers. Premonition PRE775. March 08. New album by the bassist with the same team as on his previous release: Tim Berne and his long time partner Tom Rainey on drums, trumpetist Ralph Alessi and the hip keyboardist Craig Taborn, here on piano only
  • Drew Gress: 7 Black Butterflies. PRE 767. Here with pianist Craig Taborn and saxophonist Tim Berne among others.
  • Drew Gress: Spin & Drift ! (PRE 752). The bassist is here wonderfully surrounded by Uri Caine on piano, Tim Berne on alt & baryton sax and drummer Tom Rainey.
  • Phil Haynes & Free Country: Phil Haynes & Free Country (PRE 744). Traditional American songs revisited by the drummer’s quartet which features cellist Hank Roberts and bass player Drew Gress as well as the lesser known guitarist Jim Yanda.
  • Juba Collective: S/T (PRE 756). This collective is grouped around the charismatic personality of drummer Kahil El’ Zabar, leader and drummer of the celebrated Ethnic Heritage ensemble. Juba is gathering elements of pure groove declined in many combinations. If the dominant aspect is hip hop, the pulse also happens to be jazz, rap or R&B. Body & (less) Soul.
  • Laurel Massé: Feather & Bone (PRE 751). Singer and founder of the Manhattan Transfer, Laurel was forced to quit in 79 because of a tragic car accident. Her return album from 94 is entirely dedicated to traditional songs from Scotland, Greece … or reinterpretations of Bach (menuets, gigues)
  • John Mc Lean: Easy Go (PRE 753). This is the debut album in 2001 of Patricia Barber’s guitarist, often compared to instrument colleagues Pat Metheny, Bill Frisell or David Torn.
  • Von Freeman: Good Forever. Premonition PRE 768. Sept.06. Blues and ballads played in quartet with among other drummer Jimmy Cobb
  • Von Freeman: The Great Divide (PRE 759). An homage to Coleman Hawkins, Charlie Parker & Lester Young with no less than Jimmy Cobb on drums. This is a following of “The Improvisor” released 2 years ago (PRE 757) and recorded in Chicago in December 2001. Solos, duos with pianist Jason Moran or quartet where we can among others find bassist Mark Helias.
  • Von Freeman : Live At The Dakota (PRE 750). Live recording of Freeman’s quartet playing a US club in Minnesota, April 30 & May 1, 1996.
  • Robert Walter: There Goes The Neighborhood (PRE 755). A tribute to the pioneers of jazz funk, from Herbie Hancock to Jimmy Smith via Booker T. And to raise the groove level, what about having in one's troops an ex-Crusaders bass player, Chuck Rainey, the drummer of the Headhunters and various collaborators of guitarist George Benson?
  • Paul Wertigo Trio: Don’t Be Scared Anymore (PRE 748). Album released in 2000 and probably the best accomplishment to this date by the ex-drummer of Pat Metheny.

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    PSI RECORDINGS .... PSI RECORDINGS .... PSI RECORDINGS .... PSI RECORDI ...

  • Bailey / Parker: The London Concert. July 2005. PSI 0105. The concert from Wigmore Hall in 75 is now reissued with about half an hour unreleased extra material.
  • Hank Bennink / Evan Parkeron The Grass Is Greener (PSI 0202) is recorded at the Gateway studios, London in March 2000
  • Delbecq / Houle / Parker: La Lumière De Pierres. PSI 0702. June 07. Impressionistic music for clarinet, sax and prepared piano
  • Fernandez / Gustafsson: Critical Mass. PSI 0506. The Spanish pianist, inspired as much by Cecil Taylor as by Xenakis, played improvised music in 2004 with the Swedish saxophonist
  • Foxes Fox: Naan Tso. PSI 0507. Evan Parker on saxes, with South-African drummer Louis Moholo, pianist Steve Beresford and bassist John Edwards.
  • Leimgruber / Demierre / Phillips: Ldp - Cologne. July 2005. PSI 0503. Recorded in 2003, this is a trio without drums in the vein of the
    Jimmy Giuffree 3
  • Adam Linson: Cut And Continuum. PSI 0604. Sept. 06. Linson has been introduced to us via his participation at the CD "The Eleventh Hour" by Evan Parker's Electro Acoustic Ensemble. Here we are presented with a solo recording showing his electroacoustic work on acoustic bass; from sound treatments to sampling
  • Evan Parker Octet: Crossing The River. PSI 0602. Sept. 06. 2 improvisations by the octet, a string quintet, short duos and trios recorded in London in 2005 are the content of this CD
  • Evan Parker: The Topography Of The Lungs. PSI 0605. Reissue of a mythical album from 1970, considered as a milestone in European free jazz. With the late Derek Bailey on guitar and Han Bennink on percussion
  • Evan Parker / Stan Tracey: Crevulations (PSI 0504). Nov. 2005.
  • Evan Parker: Six Of One. July 2005. PSI 0203. Reissue of a solo album from 1980
  • Evan Parker: The Snake Decides (PSI 0306). Sopran solo recorded in a church in 86.
  • Evan Parker: Lines Burnt In Light (PSI 0101). Soprano solo, also recorded in a church on october 11, 2001. This is actually the start release of the PSI label
  • Parker / Guy / Lytton: At Les Instants Chavirés (PSI 0206). French club recording
  • Evan Parker / George Lewis: From Saxophone And Trombone. PSI 0204
  • Evan Parker / Paul Lytton / Alexander Von Schlippenbach: America 2003. PSI 0406. 2CD of two concerts recorded in May 2003 in the USA.
  • Parker / Guy / Lytton / Ryan / Wachsmann: Free Zone Appleby 2004. PSI Recordings PSI 0505. British improvised music at its top, recorded in 2004 during the Applevy Jazz Festival. Around the electronics of Joel Ryan, those improvisations alternate 4 duos with a new partner each time and 3 trios with the same personal in various combinations. If Evan, Barry and Paul are no surprise, the lesser known of the four is certainly Philipp Waschsmann, here on violin and electronics.
  • Joel Ryan: Or Air (PSI 0408). Music of inner trance, dissecation of sound material in multiple parcels interacting between each other. All this worked out from loops of Evan Parker’s saxophone, turning like orbital stations around our ears. Welcome to Ryan’s science fiction laboratorium and its stellar winds!
  • Spontaneous Music Ensemble: Biosystem. PSI 0607. Jan. 07. This is the "string version" of the ensemble led by John Stevens, recorded in 1977 for the label Incus. This reissue presents 4 unreleased tracks
  • Aki Takase Quintet: Tarantella. PSI 0603. Sept.06. This concert from 97 ws organized by the German Radio and presents the pianist (living in Berlin) and her quintet mixing piano and string quartet (violin/viola/cello/contrabass).
  • Alexander Von Schlippenbach Trio. Winterreise. PSI 0610. Jan. 07. Trio with Evan Parker on tenor sax and Paul Lovens on percussion. Recorded in 2004 and 2005 during concerts at the Köln Loft.
  • Alexander Von Schlippenbach: Broomriding (PSI 0305). Quartet (piano, bass clarinet, cello, percussion) recorded in Berlin, 2002 by the German Radio.
  • Kenny Wheeler: Song For Someone (PSI 0401). Cult album from 73 featuring many British musicians: John Taylor, Derek Bailey, Norma Winstone, Tony Oxley ...
  • Kenny Wheeler: Dream Sequence (PSI 0304). Featuring Tony Levin

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    SILKHEART RECORDS .... SILKHEART RECORDS .... SILKHEART RECORDS ....

  • As I wrote somewhere else on this site, Music By Mail is now distributing the US label Silkheart. Here is a short overview of some of the releases you can look forward to!
    + Bob Ackermann Trio: Old And New Magic. SH 138. Nov. 04. This trio focuses on the reed playing (sax, clarinet & flutes) of a musician who won this nickname: Mouthpiece Doctor!
    + Booker T. Trio: Go Tell It On The Mountain. SH 114. Nov. 04. The saxophonist awkens on tenor and alto the ghosts of Coltrane & Ayler. Featuring Andrew Cyrille on drums.
    + Charles Brackeen Quartet: Attainment (SH 110) + Bannar (SH 105). 2 dtaes from Dallas, 1987, the 2nd featuring AEC’s bassist Malachi Favors.
    + Roy Campbell Pyramid: Communion . 1994. With the tandem William Parker/Reggie Nicholson.
    + Carter/Campbell/Parker/Bakr: Other Dimensions In Music (SH 120).
    + Ernest Dawkins New Horizons Ensemble: Chicago Now. Silkheart. For the commemoration of the AACM's 30th birthday, two volumes are now released ( SH 140 & 141), presenting a very worked out and accessible music. This ensemble was the revelation of the Moers festival in 1983. The title is of course a reference to the historic record by Ornette Coleman: New York Now! but it is also an homage to the lively music scene of chicago.
    + Ethnic Heritage Ensemble: 21st Century Union March (SH 142). 1995 with trombonist Joseph Bowie and of course the leader Kahil El’ Zabar on dms, percussion and vocal + Edward Wilkerson ontenor sax and alto clarinet
    + Joel Futterman Quartet: Vision In Time (SH 125). This previously partner of Jimmy Lyons met in 1989 AEC’s saxophonist Joseph Jarman. Also featured here is bassist Richard Davis
    + Charles Gayle Quartet: Blue Shadows. Silkheart SHCD157. Unreleased tracks from the famous 1993 session. The band has a strong Afro character with bassist Vattel Cherry doubling on kalimba and bells and supporting drummer Michael Wimberly. There is another celebrity on bass, the great William Parker, also featured on cello and half-size violin.
    + Charles Gayle Quartet: Blue Shadows. Silkheart SHCD 157. Unreleased tracks from the famous New Jersey 1993 Session. The personnel is: Charles Gayle: tenor saxophone, viola / William Parker: bass, cello, half-size violin / Vattel Cherry: bass, kalimba, bells / Michael Wimberly: drums. All compositions by Charles Gayle
    + Charles Gayle Quartet: Always Born (SH 115). 10/04/88 and a free improvised meeting with John Tchicai (Sirone & Reggie Nicholson form the rhythm section)
    + Charles Gayle Quartet: Raining Fire (SH 137). A session from 1993 and somehow AACM sounding. Features 2 basses for extra drive and power
    + Dennis Gonzalez New Dallasangeles: The Desert Wind (Silkheart SH 124). 4th album for the label, recorded in April 1989 in Dallas. Gonzalez is by the way the founder of a music association called DAAGNIM and which can be described as the Dallas equivalent of the AACM from Chicago. The spirit of the Great Black Music is still present on this record with the track "Hymn For Julius Hemphill".
    + Denis Gonzalez New Dallas Quartet: Stefan (SH 101). Features AEC’s bassist Malachi Favors and another fine musician on alto sax, bass clarinet and flute: John Purcell
    + William Hooker / Billy Bang Duo: Joy (Within)! (SH 147). Recorded in 94 at the Knitting Factory. Bang plays also flute here
    + Steve Lacy: 5 x Monk, 5 x Lacy (SH 144). A solo recording on sopran sax, captured in 1994 by the Swedish Radio
    + Steve Lacy Quartet: One Fell Swoop (SH 103). Recorded at the IRCAM in 1988 and featuring among others Charles Tyler
    +Matt Lavelle Trio: Spiritual Power. Silkheart SHCD156. With "Spiritual Power" Lavelle establishes himself as a major player, be it on fluegelhorn or bass clarinet. He is backed by bassist Hilliard Greene and drummer Michael Thompson.
    + Sirone Bang Ensemble: Configuration (SHCD 155). Recorded on November 29th, 2004 in New York City. With Billy Bang: violin, Charles Gayle: alto & tenor saxophones, Sirone: bass and Tyshawn Sorey: drums
    + Charles Tyler & Brus Trio: Autumn In Paris (SH 118). Recorded in Stockholm.
    + David S. Ware Quartet: Oblations And Blessings (SH 145). 1996 with his usual quartet (Matthew Shipp, William Parker, Whit Dickey)

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    SONGLINES RECORDS .... SONGLINES RECORDS .... SONGLINES RECORDS

    this label from Canada will be now available through Music By Mail. Many good artists, some lesser known but worth the discovery. Check this out:

  • Han Bennink & Dave Douglas: "Serpentine". Standards and original compositions.
  • Theo Bleckmann: "No Boat" and "Origami" are the two releases by this amazing vocalist who is a member of the Meredith Monk Ensemble. the first one features dream players Jim Black and Ben Monder
  • Benoit Delbecq: very estimated pianist with an increasing popularity in France. "Nu-Turn" is a solo record on prepared piano. Together with the canadian clarinetist François Houle, Delbecq released "Dice Thrown" and "Nancali". "Pursuit" is the most recent release of Delbecq's own quintet. Houle can be heard with his group in "In The Vernacular Music Of John Carter", a tribute of course, with a great group featuring among others trumpetist Dave Douglas and bassist Mark Dresser.
  • Jerry Granelli: The V16 Project (SGL 1544). New sound adventures led by the drummer and bringing forth varied stylistic approaches: impro jazz, blues funk fusion, ambient samples and many more. For the audiophiles, note that this CD has an audio quality of 24 bit/176.4K !!
  • Jerry Granelli: "Enter, A Dragon" and "Crowd Theory". The entire story of jazz from New Orleans to free or funk seen by this respected drummer.
  • Wayne Horvitz: "Sweeter Than the Day"is again one of those evocative blends of swing, blues, west coast and free jazz, some kind of bittersweet impressionism by this collaborator of John Zorn.
  • Misha Mengelberg: "Four In One" with Han Bennink, Dave Douglas, Brad Jones ...
  • Mark Nodwell: Nemesis (SGL 1539). The music of this young composer is served by a dream quintet composed of Ron Miles: trumpet, Khabu Doug Young: electric guitar, Art Lande: piano, Drew Gress: bass, Tom Rainey: drums. Luminous themes and inspired improvisations on top of refined arranging and writing.
  • Paul Plimley: "Everything In Stages" is a piano solo recording by the canadian musician. "Ivory Ganesh Meets Dr. Drums" is a duo collaboration with south indian percussion master Trichy Sankaran.
  • Brad Shepik: "The Loan" and "The Well". the latter is quieter than the first and goes forth and back between balkan music and New York jazz. Shepik is leader of Pachora and is also known from other projects such as Paradox Trio or Dave Douglas' Tiny Bell.
  • Chris Speed: "Yeah No" + "Emit". His quartet features Cuong Vu (Pat Metheny Group), Jim Black and Skuli Sverrisson. Jazz, contemporary music, eastern Europe, Haitian grooves, are part of the fresh and creative ideas delivered by the group.
  • Talking Pictures: "Humming". Quintet created by the canadian guitarist Ron Sanworth and the dutch saxophonist Jorrit Dijkestra. The music, though firmly based in jazz, resorts to electronic processing as well.
  • Patrick Zimmerli And Octurn: The Book Of Hours (SGL 1541). Canada meets Belgium. Octurn should be by now known by most; this big formation inspired by Steve Coleman's Five Elements and featuring members of Aka Moon is here playing the innovative orchestral ideas and personal writing of saxophonist Patrick Zimmerli. A top meeting indeed!

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    SOUL NOTE/BLACK SAINT/DISCHI DELLA QUERCIA/PHILOLOGY/RED...

  • Asymmetrique: Nivola. Dischi Della Quercia (DDQ 1280472). A very exciting instrumentation is provided here, see: Marco Remondini (Sax, cello & effects), Giancarlo Zucchi (Piano, Keyb. & Effects), Gianluigi Trovesi (Piccolo, Alto Clarinet), Riccardo Biancoli (Drums & Percussion), Roberta Visentin (Bb Clarinet), Stefania Martin (Voice), Stefano Boccafoglia (Voice), Pippo “The Dog” (Voice)
  • Gianni Basso: Blue Woods. Gianni Basso (ts), Andrea Pozza (p), Luciano Milanese (b), Stefano Bagnoli (dr). Compositions of Phil Woods. Philology PHC 2522
  • The american drummer Bob Moses can be appreciated on a new recording of Greg Burk Trio (Soul Note). Jon Robinson (bass) completes the trio. Album recorded and mixed in 2001.
  • Greg Burk Quartet: Carpe Momentum. Soul Note (SNC 1213932). Greg Burk (piano) / Jerry Bergonzi (tenor and soprano saxophones) Jonathan Robinson (bass) / Gerald Cleaver (drums)
  • Chris Cheek - Stéphane Furic - Patrick Goraguer: Music For 3 - VOL. 1. Chris Cheek (tenor saxophone) - Stephane Furic (bass) - Patrick Goraguer (drums) Recorded on December 5th, 1997 in New York. Soul Note SNC 1214152
  • Cordoba Reunion: Argentina Jazz. Quartet of percussion/sax/piano/bass. Features the great saxophonist Javier Girotto (Aires Tango) as well as singer Mercedes Sosa on one track. Philology PHC 7172
  • Franco D’Andrea: Plays Monk. Philology PHC 40192. Piano solo, live at Metastisio Jazz, february 2003.
  • Irio de Paula & Fabrizio Bosso: Once I loved - Chapter One. Unrehearsed spontaneous studio meeting of the acoustic guitarist with the trumpeter. Philology PHC 2562
  • Scott Dubois Quintet: Monsoon. Soul Note (SNC 1214092). The leader is a guitar player and can be heard on acoustic and electric guitars. Also features saxophonist Dave Liebman
  • Giovanni Falzone & Contemporary Ensemble: Big Fracture. Giovanni Falzone: tp, bugle & flghn / Paolo Botti: viola / Libero Mureddo: piano / Tito Mangialajo Rantzer: double bass / Cristian Calcagnile: drums. Soul Note SNC 1213782
  • Giovanni Falzone Chamber Group: Earthquake Suite. Soul Note (SNC 1214182). New album by the promising Italian comet
  • Claudio Fasoli Gammatrio: Stilla. Fasoli: ts, ss / Rudy Migliardi: tb / Paolo Birro: p. Soul Note SNC 1213352
  • Ferdinando Farao: Eschersuite. Ferdinando Faraò (dr, percu) - Michele Benvenuti (trb)- Enea Coppaloni (electric bass), Simone Mauri (cl) Valerio Scrignoli (elec. guitar). Recorded on May 15th, 16th 2003 at MuRec, Milano. Dischi Della Quercia DDQ 1280382
  • Don Friedman (p) - Jeff Fuller (b) - Tommy Bradascio (dms): Standards In Cagliari. Live Recording from 15/10/99 at the international jazz festival in Cagliari. Soul Note SNC 1213772
  • Giorgio Gaslini & Proxima Centauri Orchestra “Urban Griot / Guantanamera / Because The Night / Odissey”. Soul Note SNC 1214702
  • Heinz Geisser & Guerino Mazzola Quartet: Chronotomy. Black Saint (BNC 1201732). Features Mat Manieri on viola and Scott Fields on el guitar.
  • Marco Jimenez Trio: Songs for the Trees. Classical trio led by switz pianist and composer M. Jimenez. Philology PHC 7132
  • Victor Lewis/J.D. Allen/Fabio Morgera. Victor Lewis (dr) - Fabio Morgera (trp, flg) - J.D. Allen (sax) Jason Jackson (trb) - Eric Lewis (p) - Raymond Angry (p, kb) - Eric Revis (b). Recorded in 2003 in N.Y.C. Red Records REC 1233002
  • Michela Lombardi: Small Day Tomorrow. This young singer with a warm and emotive voice is strongly inspired by Irene Kral and interprets here 7 of her pieces. In the vein of the singers new wave such as Diana Krall or Norah Jones but with her own identity. Philology PHC 7092
  • Roberto Magris Europlane: Il Bello Del Jazz. Soul Note 121395-2. Recorded on August 28th, 30th 2003 at Urban Recording Studios, Trieste, this CD features the alt saxophonist Herb Geller as special guest. Magris, born in Trieste in 1959, is heralded as one of the top pianists in Europe because of the influence that great American pianists such as McCoy Tyner, Jaki Byard, Randy Weston have had on his style of playing. With Herb Geller on board, this set reaches new levels of swing and bebop because of the influence that great altoists such as Benny Carter & Charlie Parker have had on Geller’s playing as well. Most of the songs are a great mix of originals penned by Geller and Magris as well as covers by Great American songwriters including Benny Carter, Stephen Sondheim, and Sammy Cohn.
  • Mantua Jazz Trio: Wonder Why. Stefano Caniato: piano / Marco Cocconi: bass / Riccardo Biancoli: drums. Dischi Della Quercia DDQ 1280402
  • William Parker & The Little Huey Creative Music Orchestra: Mass For The Healing Of The World. Black Saint BSC1201792. This work was played for the time in 1998 at the Verona Jazz Festival, where this CD was recorded. Big ensemble (17 piece).
  • Gaetano Partipilo: Basic. Soul Note (SNC 1214112). The alt sax player is also credited on el percussion. The album also features Giovanni Falzone: trumpet, electronics and Mirko Signorile: piano, Fender Rhodes
  • The Joe Rosenberg Group: The Long & Short Of It. Joe Rosenberg: ss - Jean-Luc Guionette: as - Olivier Py: ts - Hubertus Biermann: Bass - Edward Perraud: Percussion. Black Saint BSC 1201422
  • Massimo Urbani Quartet: Live at Belzebu. Recorded in Bologna, Italy. Philology PHC 2382
  • Gebhard Ullmann: The Big Band Project. Soul Note (SNC 1214712). Ullmann on bass cl, tenor & sop sax + 17 members big band
  • Mal Waldron & Judi Silvano "Riding The Zephil". A recording on Soul Note (SNC 1213482).

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    SPLAsC(H) RECORDS .... SPLAsC(H) RECORDS .... SPLAsC(H) RECORDS ....

  • Acoustic Jazz Trio: Sinestesia. Hommage to the Chilean writer Pablo Neruda. A classical piano/bass/drums jazz trio led by pianist and composer Alessandro Giachero. Harmonious and melancholic ballads.
  • Carlos Actis Dato Quartet: Swingin Hanoï. This is the 12th release -12th!- of one of the most original formation in italian jazz. Inspired as well by jazz as popular mediterranean music, the Middle East, Africa, the Tropics, italian songs and cabaret.
  • Bansigu Big Band & Lee Konitz: Bansigu Big band with Lee Konitz. Italian band directed by composer and saxophonist Cesare Marchini. Splasch SPL 8592
  • Stefano Battaglia: Rito Stagionale. 14 musicians (4 percussionists and 3 bass players, 5 saxes, flute & trumpet) gathered for an experimental project of melodic jazz leaning towards new age. Splasch SPL 9032
  • Felice Clemente Quintet: Way Out Sud. Felice Clemente (ts & ss), Giovanni Falzone (trp, flg), Massimo Colombo (p), Valerio Della Fonte (b) & Manuel Consigli (g). SPLASCH SPL7862
  • Steve LACY meets The Riccardo FASSI TRIO: Dummy. Steve Lacy (sopr sax), Riccardo Fassi (p), Gianluca Renzi (b), Ettore Fioravanti (dr). Recorded on September 5 th, 2001 at HouseRecording Studio, Rome. SPLASCH RECORDS 2002.
  • Stefano Maltese: Hangin in the Sky. Album for big formation with great musicians: Eugenio Colombo (sax, fl), Carlo Actis Dato (sax, cl), Pino Minafra (trp, flg), to name a few. Splasch SPL 1392
  • Guido Manusardi: Lost In Space. the renowned pianist leads here a quintet in which shines the richly coloured voice of Rachel Gould.
  • Nico Morelli: Meets Mauro Negri. Nico Morelli (piano) & Mauro Negri (cl). SPLASCH SPL 7842
  • Massimo Urbani: Out Of Nowhere. Splasch SPL 3362. Remastered edition with 3 bonus tracks.
  • William Parker: Spontaneous. Two long compositions for a black music calling for jazz, folk, gospel and cosmic space.

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    TCB RECORDINGS .... TCB RECORDINGS .... TCB RECORDINGS .... TCB RECORDINGS ....

  • Yvan Ischer & Scorpio 7: Sleepless. TCB 25402. Septet with focus on blow ínstruments (tp + fl. / tb / as + bs / ts + ss) and the presence of Adam Nussbaum on drums.
  • Brad Leali: Live in Europe. TCB 25502. Live in Berne, January 2004. Modern jazz with a touch of Latin and first of all Pat Bianchi on Hammond organ. Also noteworthy is the presence of Sean Jones, a young trumpetist obviously disciple of Freddie Hubbard
  • Soskin / McCaslin / Gisler / Hammer: One. TCB 26302. US-European meeting for main stream jazz.

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    THIRSTY EAR .... THIRSTY EAR .... THIRSTY EAR .... THIRSTY EAR .... THIRSTY ...

  • Tim Berne: The Shell Game. Thirsty Ears THI 099. March 07. With the much praised keyboard player Craig Taborn and the faithful long time collaborator on drums Tom Rainey
  • Tim Berne Science Friction Band: The Sublime And. Thirsty Ears THI 139. March 07. 2CD with Craig Taborn on keyboards and electronic, the French guitarist Marc Ducret and a totally possessed Tom Rainey on drums
  • Big Satan: Souls Saved Hear. Thirsty Ears THI151. June 06. 2nd album by this sulfuric formation led by saxophonist Tim Berne and featuring French great guitarist Marc Ducret, drummer Tom Rainey and another guitarist, here only delivering electronics and production, the one and only David Torn.
  • Guillermo E. Brown: Soul at the Hands of the Machine. Thirsty Ear THI 118. Jan.08. Being freed from work with William Parker and David S. Ware, the drummer gathers here a series of bewitching grooves on an album featuring a host of rising stars from the Downtown.
  • Roy Campbell: Its Krunch Time. Thirsty Ears THI 107. July 07. For this first record on the label, the trumpetist has with him vibraphonist Khan Jamal, bassist Wilbur Morris and drummer Guillermo Brown.
  • Dj Spooky: Dubtometry. thirsty Ears THI 128. Oct. 06. The album "Optometry" is here remixed with the help of Jamaican experts like Mad Professor & Lee Scratch Perry. A joyful éléctro-jazz-dub-hip hop-trip hop record!
  • The Free Zen Society: The Free Zen Society. Thirsty Ears THI 177. March 07. This is quite a unique experience where sound engineer Peter Gordon has processed, edited and post produced a session which had been recorded a few years before in 2003. The project included harpist Zeena Parkins and the well oiled tandem of Matthew Shipp & William Parker. By spatializing and reshaping the melodic waves - by the way lesser furious than usual this evening - the final result is one of a more ambient and relaxing album!
  • The Gang Font: Feat. Interloper. Thirsty Ears THI 176. July 07. With drummer Dave King from the cult band The Bad Plus and members of Happy Apple, Taborn - head of a new race of keyboard players - & Co. deliver here 9 tracks of free jazz / electro-rock.
  • Groundtruther: Longitude. Thirsty Ear (THI 160). April 2006. Trio concept similar to what was once Third Person (with Tom Cora and Sam Bennett). Two permanent members invite a guest to join them. Here the guest is DJ Spooky and his turntables, invited by Charlie Hunter on an 8 string guitar and drummer Bobby Previte also standing for electronics.
  • Groundtruther: Latitude. Also on Thirsty Ears (THI 150). June 06. Great combo where the permanent members, Charlie Hunter on 8-string guitar and Bobby Previte on drums and electronics, invite a different guest at every occasion. Here, back to 2004 and the first effort, the choice fell on saxophonist Greg Osby
  • Mat Maneri: Sustain. Thirsty Ear THI 122. Jan. 08. New album by the violinist and viola player, here with old time partners Craig Taborn on keyboardss, bassist William Parker, drummer Gerald Cleaver and Joe McPhee on sopran sax.
  • Mat Maneri: Blue Decco. Thirsty Ears THI 092. March 07. Homage to Eric Dolphy with the great team of Craig Taborn, William Parker & Gerald Cleaver. Maneri plays here various instruments, from a 6 string electric violin to a baritone violin without forgetting a 5-string alto.
  • Mat Maneri: Pentagon. Thirsty Ear (THI 163). 3rd album for the Blue Series with many guests, from father joe to keyboardist Jamie Saft or Craig Taborn, and an invitation to a halllucinating journey fed with an original selection of sounds (mellotron, trombone, mridangam and more). A beautiful album!
  • Meat Beat Manifesto are making the news with two releases "At The Center" and "Off-Center" on the label Thirsty Ear. Led by Jack Dangers on bass, bass clarinet and more, it also features keyboardist Craig Taborn, drummer and percussionist Dave King, flutist Peter Gordon. "Off-Center" consists mainly of remixes and live versions of the main album. Dangers is essentially known for having produced or mixed albums by Bowie, Public Enemy, David Byrne, Nine Inch Nails, etc...
  • Medeski / Shipp: Radical Reconstructive Surgery. Thirsty Ears THI 172. March 07. Having both studied at the New England Conservatory, the two pianists have been known each other for years but are for the first time reunited on stage for this groovy funky project featuring Shipp's partner William Parker, but also DJ Olive, drummer Nasheed Waits and Mauricio Takara
  • William Parker: Painter's Spring. Thirsty Ear THI 088. Jan. 08. This trio with drummer Hamid Drake also sets in relief the lyrical playing of a too less known musician, reedman Daniel Carter, here on alt and tenor sax, flute and clarinet. Carter is a previous pupil of Jimmy Giuffre and ex partner of Sam Rivers and Cecil Taylor. He has also played with Sun Ra.
  • William Parker: Scrap Book. Thirsty Ears THI 134. Oct. 06. This is actually compositions by Parker played by violinist Billy Bang!
  • William Parker: Luc's Lantern. Thirsty Ear (THI 158). Trio album and one of the quietest and most accessible by this today vital voice in modern jazz.
  • Sex Mob: Meets Medeski (Live In Willisau 2006). Thirsty Ears (THI 189). May 09. Pianist John Medeski was guest on the band's first album and reappears as such on this live recording, the first live in the discography of the polymorph outfit
  • Matthew Shipp: DNA. Thirsty Ears THI 067. July 07. Seven duos recorded with bassist William Parker
  • Matthew Shipp Quartet: Pastoral Composure. Thirsty Ears THI 084. July 07. With Parker again and trumpetist Roy Campbell, drummer Gerald Cleaver.
  • Matthew Shipp: Nu Bop. Thirsty Ears THI 114. March 07. Conceived as the follower of "New Orbit", this album was released in 2002 and marks Parker's interest for newer textures, helped in that by synthesistFlam. Let's note the presence of saxophonist and flutist Daniel Carter
  • Matthew Shipp: Equilibrium. Thirsty Ears THI 127. Oct. 06. In the same vein as "Nu Bop", Shipp uses here electronic, helped by the programming skills of Flam but also vibraphonist Khan Jamal
  • Matthew Shipp: Harmony And Abyss. Thirsty Ears THI 152. June 06. The leader is on piano AND synthesizer, together with the omnipresent William Parker, the lesser known saxophonist and flutist Daniel Carter, drummer Gerald Cleaver
  • Spring Heel Jack: Live. Thirsty Ears THI 130. March 07. Between post free recurrences and freaky electro jazz, this project gathers Han Bennink, Evan Parker, Matthew Shipp, William Parker, J. Spaceman, Ashley Wales & John Coxon
  • Spring Heel Jack: Masses. Thirsty Ears THI 103. Jan. 08. The duo of John Coxon & Ashley feeds here a host of experienced free musicians with home recorded or sampled sounds, which they in turn use freely, distorded, misused, incorporated in an improvised modern food atelier. Those chefs have names such as Tim Berne, Mat Maneri, Roy Campbell, William Parker, Matthew Shipp ...
  • Spring Heel Jack: The Sweetness Of The Water. Thirsty Ears THI 146. Oct. 06. The free jazz created by the likes of Wadada Leo Smith, Evan Parker, John Edwards & Mark Sanders is here spiced with electronics by the heretic British duo of John Coxon & Ashley Wales
  • Craig Taborn: Junk Magic. Thirsty Ears THI 144. Oct. 06. Some of the best fusion between today's jazz and electronic. Features viola player Mat Maneri and his micro-tonality principles!
  • David S. Ware: Threads. Thirsty Ears THI 137. July 07. A lot of great players for this project, including Matthew Shipp on keyboards, Mat Maneri on viola, bassist William Parker, the Haitian violinist Daniel Bernard Roumain and drummer Guillermo Brown
  • David S. Ware Quartet: Live In The World. Thirsty Ear (THI 153). april 2006. This 3 CD set is actually the first live quartet album of Ware, recorded in Italy during 3 different concerts with 3 different drummers: Susie Ibarra, Hamid Drake, Guillermo E. Brown. A vey spiritual album!
  • The Yohimbe Brothers: The Tao Of Yo. Thirsty Ears THI 149. This is the association between guitarist Vernon Reid and the man considered in New York as the grand father of live turntables, DJ Logic. The duo gets their insppiration from various sources such as jazz, reggae, hip hop and metal. They're not afraid to also try to implant elements of Sly or Hendrix

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    TZADIK .... TZADIK .... TZADIK .... TZADIK .... TZADIK .... TZADIK .... TZADIK ...

  • Derek Bailey: Standards. Tzadik TZ7620. June 07. One Christmas evening 2001, New York. Bailey was thinking loud and multiplying his musical approaches to standards, just two monthes before recording his much praised ballads album. Maybe was standards the prerequisite!
  • Derek Bailey: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome. TZ 7612. Solo guitar
  • Cyro Baptista: Love The Donkey (TZ 7614). Nov. 2005. The follower of "Beat The Donkey", recorded by Jamie Saft in his Brooklyn studio. Numerous dancers, percussionists and musicians were invited for this eclectic program and there is a live video bonus track of the event.
  • Mick Barr: Octis: Iohargh Wended. Tzadik TZ8030. Feb. 07. This guy is one of the most extreme guitarists in the world! The 15 pieces of this record are pure concentrates of speed and intensity maintained by absolute internal logic! Between classical music and viruoso prog rock, the guitar is either alone or duelling with electronic drums.
  • Bar Kokhba Sextet: 50th Birthday Celebration Series Vol 11. TZ 5011. A recording at the Tonic by six members of the Masada family. John Zorn, composition and direction with Cyro Baptista, Joey Baron, Greg Cohen, Mark Feldman, Erik Friedlander and Marc Ribot.
  • Steven Bernstein: Diaspora Suite. Tzadik TZ8122. Jan. 08. This is the 4th opus of the Diaspora Soul Series, exploring the Hebraic tradition. This time the cooking is flavoured with some Miles Davis / Gil Evans spices, played and interpreted by a ninetet of excellent Californian musicians among which we'll find a good deal of members of the band Hieroglyphics, led by reedman Peter Apfelbaum. Guitarist Nels Cline and his long time partner, drummer Scott Amendola are also present.
  • Braxton / Graves / Parker: Beyond Quantum. Tzadik TZ7626. Sept. 08. Recorded and mixed by Bill Laswell, here's an intense session and meeting of three musicians among the most creative on today's jazz scene
  • Robert Burger: City Of Strangers. Tzadik (TZ 7519). April 09. Founding member of the Tin Hat Trio, the accordionist and keyboardist has also been the partner of among other Laurie Anderson. On this album, another Tin Hat member - violinist Carla Kihlstedt is present, alongside familiar names such as altist Eyvind Kang or electric guitarist Marc Ribot
  • Uri Caine: Moloch : Book Of Angels Volume 6. Tzadik TZ7360. Nov. 06. 15 compositions taken from John Zorn's Masada Song Book II and interpreted on piano.
  • Steve Coleman: Invisible Paths : First Scattering. Tzadik TZ 7621. The first solo recording by the creator of the M'Base movement and world over influential leader of the group Five Elements. Coleman has travelled a lot, from India to Egypt, in the quest of the Absolute, Knowledge, Beauty and Truth. This record is the first result of his investigations!
  • Jacques Coursil: Minimal Brass. TZ 8016. His first album since 1969!
  • Mark Feldman / Uri Caine / Greg Cohen / Joey Baron: Secrets. Tzadik TZ8130. Jan. 09. First album by this extraordinary quartet of New York Downtown, here delving in songs taken from Jewish traditions of the Hassidic dynasties.
  • Feldman / Courvoisier: Malphas / Vol 3 (Tzadik TZ 7354). Duo piano/violin for an interpretation of the music of John Zorn.
  • Fred Frith/John Zorn: 50th Birthday Celebration Vol. 5.
  • Hemophiliac: 50th Birthday Celebration Vol.6. John Zorn: alt sax, Mike Patton: voice & Ikue Mori: electronics. Was until now only available on the net as a limited edition
  • Julius Hemphill: One Atmosphere (TZ 7090). This is an epic suite for 7 wind instruments and a quintet of piano and strings; add to this a blues written for the trio he formed with Abdud Wadud but here reinterpreted by cellist Erik Friedlander, saxophonist Marty Ehrlich and drummer Pheeroan Aklaff
  • Joseph Holbrooke Trio: The Moat Recordings. Tzadik 7616. 2CD. March 06. Those original tapes have an historical importance since no one was really sure they existed until their remastering and production in 1999. They witness the very first phase of British improvised music with Derek Bailey, drummer Tony Oxley and on bass Gavin Bryars who would thereafter quickly leave the improvised scene to consecrate his work on composition.
  • Wayne Horvitz: Whispers, Hymns And A Murmur (TZ 8021). The compositions of this album by one of the (still) most creative musicians today show an abstract impressionism with a light blues coloration.
  • Kaiser / Noyes / Park: Invite The Spirit. Tzadik TZ 7617. This trio has been existing more than 20 years. On several tracks, two Corean singers and their shamanic tradition join the trio and those Far Eastern winds give the guitar of Henry Kaiser even more serenity.
  • John King: Allsteel. Tzadik TZ8023. Sept.06. Written between 2001 and 2004, here are 3 string quatuors presented by King, which without any doubt connect him to the worlds of the blues and of the improvisation
  • Koby Israelit: Dance Of The Idiots. As complex and mastered as Naked City, Frank Zappa or Mr. Bungle, this record explores with passion death metal, the balkans, free.
  • Koby Israelite: Mood Swings. Tzadik TZ 7199. 2nd album by this wild man who introduced us in 2001 to a fascinating track mixing death-metal with klezmer. Jazz and gipsy, Zappa are also some of the many other influences perspiring in his works
  • Toshinori Kondo: Furyo. TZ 7255. 14 haïkus of solo trumpet + electronic, recorded in Amsterdam
  • Bill Laswell: Invisible Design II. Tzadik (TZ8062). Following the previous one made in 99, here's Laswell alone with two basses (one 4-string and one 8-string) and a host of pedals and effects
  • Eyal Maoz: Edom (TZ 8105). Nov. 2005. This young Israeli guitarist lives in New York since 1999. He has with this record created an instrumental mix of rock and jazz fusion close to the Tony Williams Lifetime. John Medeski is on the keyboards!
  • Billy Martin: Starlings. Tzadik TZ 8025. Sept. 06. Here is the percussion third of the famous Medeski, Martin & Wood. Those contemporary compositions were originally written for an orchestra of kalimbas (of all sizes and tonalities). They have been transcribed for string quartets and other chamber music ensembles by Anthony Coleman (a wizzard of harmony and counterpoint)
  • Electric Masada: At The Mountains Of Madness (Tzadik TZ 7352). Two sets of concerts recorded in 2004 in Moscow and Ljubljana.
  • Masada String Trio: Azazel / Book Of Angels Vol 2 (TZ 7351). New studio recording of compositions mixing jazz, classical and klezmer. the trio is Mark Feldman on violin, Erik Friedlander on cello and Greg Cohen on bass.
  • Masada: 50th Birthday Celebration Vol.7. Tzadik. Features Dave Douglas, Greg Cohen & Joey Baron
  • Masada: Sanhedrin. TZ 7346. A 2CD of rarities, alternate takes (some maybe better than the original) and sessions extracts taken from the period 94 to 97. 2½ hours alltogether and on top a luxurious booklet with photos, score sheets, homages, comments. A limited edition as well!
  • Misha Mengelberg: Senne Sing Song. TZ 7613. With Greg Cohen on bass and Ben Perowsky on drums.
  • Minamo: Kuroi Kawa~Black River. Tzadik TZ 7720. Oct. 09. This double CD is the meeting - live and in the studio - of the Japanese pianist Satoko Fuji with the violinist Carla Kihlstedt. Chamber music for a new century, cut with delicacy and creative spontaneity
  • Ikue Mori: Myrninerest. TZ 7714. A new written solo work in homage to the plastician artist Madge Gill.
  • Naked City: The Complete Studio Recordings. TZ 7344. Ouch! This 5CD boxset and limited edition gathers all the studio recordings (Naked City, Grand Guignol, Torture Garden, Leng Tch’e, Heretic, Radio, Absinthe) remastered by John Zorn himself. A new 18mn long version of "Grand Guignol" is also included. The booklet is 100 pages with tons of documentation on many forms: photos, scores, Zorn's diaries, homages, reproduction of posters. For the real fans!
  • Alon Nechushtan / Talat: The Growl. Tzadik TZ8113. Nov. 06. With Nechushtan on keyboards, the group Talat is a jazz quintet gathering some of the best musicians of New York's new generation. The music mixes jazz and klezmer.
  • Tony Oxley: The Advocate. Tzadik TZ7618. This unreleased duo work with the late Derek Bailey comes from a 1975 studio recording. In addition will be found the moving homage of Oxley given in 2006 to his partner in 40 years!
  • Painkiller: 50th Birthday Celebration Series Vol 12. TZ 5012. Recorded at the Tonic, New York, September 5&6, 2003. With Hamid Drake: drums, Bill Laswell: bass, John Zorn: alto sax, and Mike Patton: voice. A burning performance!
  • Evan Parker: Time Lapse. Tzadik TZ8026. Eleven solo pieces recorded in multitrack at the Gateway studios between 1996 and 2001. Parker plays also organ here.
  • Zeena Parkins: Necklace. Tzadik TZ8022. June 06. The 2006 album by the reknown harpist calls for two string quartets (electronically treated), a piece for cello and 8 dancers, whose recorded steps are its rhythmic basis, and a composition for solo harp.
  • Radar: Easy Listening. Tzadik TZ 7251. This trio from Osaka has obviously been influenced by Steve Lacy or the Jimmy Giuffre Three and they succed in incorporating to them a strong and unique Nippon touch
  • Rashanim: Masada Rock. TX 8103. Classics of Masada played in a rock context.
  • Marc Ribot: Scelsi Morning (TZ 7089). A suite of impressionistic pieces written for chamber ensemble and with focus on Albert Ayler, Morton Feldman and ..... Giancento Scelsi.
  • Marc Ribot: Soundtracks Vol. II (TZ 7516). From 30's swing passages to moon soundscapes, this album is surely the most eclectic produced by the guitarist to this day.
  • Doug Wieselman: Collected Soundtracks 1996-2002 (TZ 7515)
    This includes the music of "Long Way Home".
  • Ned Rothenberg’s Sync (with Strings): Inner Diaspora. Tzadik TZ 8114. The multi reed player is this time called for a rereading of the Radical Jewish Culture. His trio - Sync (already featuring the great bass and guitar player Jerome Harris) - is here reinforced by string players from the Masada string Trio, violinist Mark Feldman and cellist Erik Friedlander
  • Jamie Saft Trio: Plays Bob Dylan : Trouble. Tzadik TZ 8111. Sept. 06. An homage to the songwriter Bob Dylan, much admired by Saft who compares his improvisation genius to the likes of Albert Ayler or Miles Davis. Saft plays here on piano and organ and is accompanied by bassist Greg Cohen and drummer Ben Perowski
  • Jamie Saft Trio: Astaroth Vol 1. TZ 7348. July 2005. With Greg Cohen on bass & Ben Perowskion drums, playing the Masada songbook.
  • Elliott Sharp: String Quartets : 2002 - 2007. Tzadik TZ 8052. June 08. This is the second volume presenting Sharp's string quartets and the works are interpreted by the Sirius quartet, expert in nuances, volumes and dynamics
  • Wadada Leo Smith / Jack Dejohnette: America. Tzadik TZ7628. May 09. This meeting between two legendary jazz musicians was refused by ECM in 1979 and only today, 30 years after, are we able to finally listen to it! Strong telepathic interaction, inner fire and same spriritual sources for the two improvisers, recorded by a certain Bill Laswell, it can't go wrong!
  • Stabat Akish: S/T. Tzadik (TZ8064). April 09. A French band from Toulouse on the Tzadik label is in itself enough to trigger curiosity. Founded in 2007 by Maxime Delporte who writes all compositions, this astounding ensemble is a burning melting pot where cook the spirits of Mingus, Jobim, Prince, Ennio Morricone or Vladimir Cosma but above all the one and only Frank Zappa! Therefore expect devastating breaks, humoristic arrangements, multiple twinkles of the eye and a music that will not leave you indifferent!
  • John Zorn: Astronome. Tzadik TZ 7359. This 2CD is today a true gem. Zorn is the composer of this demential opera in 3 acts and 7 pictures. the session was recorded and mixed by Bill Laswell and the performers included the late singer Mike Patton, bassist Trevor Dunn and the almighty drummer Joey Baron.
  • John Zorn: Moonchild. Tzadik 7357. June 06. 11 new compositions with an uncommon hardcore sound and energy. Mike Patton sings, Joey Baron is on drums, Trevor Dunn on bass
  • John Zorn: Magick. Tzadik. Zorn returns here to the universes of alchemy, supernatural and cabalistic. Quatuor for string quartet (Crowley Quartet), duos for bass clarinet, etc…
  • John Zorn: Masada Anniversary Vol. 3 - The Unknown Masada (TZ 7181)
    No less than 14 original unissued compositions taken from the imposing Masada songbook and played by such contributors as Erik Friedlander, Dave Douglas, Ruins, Koby Israelite, etc...
  • John Zorn: Filmworks XIV - Hiding And Seeking (TZ 7343)
    This volume is arranged for classical guitar, vibes, brazilian percussion, bass and voice; it is interpreted by the all-star combo of the Electric Masada Ensemble.

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    VICTO RECORDS .... VICTO RECORDS .... VICTO RECORDS .... VICTO RECORDS ...

  • Braxton / Frith: Duo (victoriaville) 2005. Victo VIC 100. Frith paired to a blower musician is actually a rather rare event! Enjoy!
  • Anthony Braxton Sextet: (victoriaville) 2005. Victo VIC 98. Another performance (and one of the most intense) taken from the Canadian festival of musiques nouvelles!
  • Breschand / Pauvros: Sombre. VIC 95. July 2005. Duo of electro-acoustic harp and electric guitar, meeting between a musician coming from the classical world and another from the free improvised rock.
  • Cline / Parkins / Rainey: Downpour. Victo VIC 104. Recorded at the 23rd festival of Victoriaville, May 20, 2006. Andrea Parkins is featured on accordion and keyboards.
  • Erosonic: Mistery Theatre. A very special duo consisting of saxophone and a special built accordion. Mysterious and poetic music played with new expression means.
  • Satoko Fujii Min-Yoh Ensemble: Fujin Raijin. Victo (VIC 105). Another record to add to the prolific output of Japanese pianist Satoko Fujii. This time, the jazz reappropriation of her own culture is the thing to explore, together with her husband, trumpetist Natsuki Tamura, the always refreshing Andrea Parkins on accordion and trombonist Curtis Hasselbring. This is a studio recording from May 2006 in New York. And before I forget it, "Min-Yoh" means folk music in Japanese!
  • Peter Kowald & William Parker: The Victoriaville Tape. Peter Kowald died in september 2002 and this recording by two of the most creative bass players in free music has now become some kind of testament.
  • Now Orchestra & Marilyn Crispell: Pola (Victo VIC 097). This 14 piece Canadian ensemble, founded and directed by Coat Cooke was recorded in 2004 in Vancouver.
  • Evan Parker Trio & Peter Brötzman Trio: The Bishop’s Move. Victo. Europe meets USA at the Victoriaville festival in May 2003
  • Quartet Noir: Lugano ( Victo VIC 096). 3 improvisations in company of Joëlle Léandre on bass, Marilyn Crispell on piano, Fritz Hauser on drums and Urs Leimgruber on saxophone. Recorded on October 29, 2004 in Lugano, Switzerland.
  • Rova: Resistance. This is the 25th anniversary of this quartet, still on the edge of innovative and challenging improvised music.
  • Sawai / Doneda / Ima / Lê Quann / Saitoh: Une Chance Pour L’ombre. Victo VIC94. Franco-Japanese quintet recorded live at the 20th festival of Victoriaville (Canada) in 2003.

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    THE JAZZ STORY & HIS HISTORICAL MOMENTS

  • Albert Ayler: Holy Ghost. Now available as double gatefold clear vinyl 3LP on the label Revenant (REV6011LP). Features inside its deluxe double gatefold cover a gorgeous 24" x 24" poster, postcard, printed innersleeves and more.
  • Barrabas: Sus Primeras Grabaciones 1972-1975 (RO52882, Ramalama). €16. A 32 tracks collection of the biggest funk rock name in Spain featuring their hit "Wild safari" of course!
  • Ben & The Platano: Paris Soul. Reissue CD or LP on the French label Dare-Dare. DD003. Jazz-funk with afro-Cuban flavors on some tracks, easy moods on others. 10 tracks, 10 bombs!
  • Art Blakey & The Messengers - The Birthday Concert. This is a 2CD recorded live in 1980 at "Bubba's Jazz Restaurant" in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida and featuring Bobby Watson, Billy Pierce, James Williams, Charles Fambrough and future jazz star Wynton Marsalis on trumpet.
  • Blue Notes was one of the crucial bands of South-African jazz, led by pianist Chris McGregor and featuring in its ranks notabilities such as bassist Johnny Dyani, saxophonist Dudu Pukwana and drummer Louis Moholo. Ogun Records are busy preparing the next Ogun issue and are very pleased and excited to announce the awaited release of all the music recorded on Ogun by the legendary band. It will be an ambitious 5CDs boxset (OGCD 024 - 028) with "Blue Notes for Mongezi" (ex OG532), 2 full length CDs with extra material from the double LP previous release OG001/002 "Blue Notes in Concert" (OG220), all of which have never been on CD before, plus the re-issue of "Blue Notes Legacy", a live recording from South Africa in 1964, formerly released as CD (OGCD007) and out of print for over a year. A booklet with contributions from an international collection of writers and musicians with photos collected from various archives will complete the boxset, hopefully available by late March early April.
  • Brotherhood Of Breath: Bremen to Bridgewater. Cuneiform. A 2CD of previously unreleased live recordings made in Germany and England during two very different periods of the band’s career. The German radio recordings were made on June 20th, 1971 at Lila Uele, a well known jazz club in Bremen. The English recordings were made at the Bridgewater Arts Center, during two tours that the band made with different lineups in February and November of 1975, and feature some of the very last recordings of trumpeter Mongezi Feza, who died in December of that year.
  • Teddy Charles: Vibe-Rant (BMCD 1626). Feat.: Teddy Charles (vb), Idrees Sulieman (tp), Mal Waldron (p), Addison Farmer (b), Jerry Segal (d). Recorded in 1957.
  • Cozy Cole: A Cozy Conception of Carmen. Blue Moon (BMCD1625). Feat.: Cozy Cole (d), Bernie Privin (flgh, tp), George Holt (tp), Bob Hammer (p, glockenspiel, organ), Al Klink (ts, bcl), John Hafer (ts), Jerome Richardson (bars, bcl, cl, piccolo), Milton Hinton Jack Lesberg (b), Phil Kraus, Douglas Allen (percussion). Recorded in 1961
  • The Olatunji Concert was the last live recording of John Coltrane. Available on Impulse!
  • Miles Davis: Complete 1951-1953 All Stars Studio Recordings (for Prestige & Blue Note). Definitive. 2CD

  • Miles Davis: The Early Years. The English label Jazzprint presents two volumes, each a double CD (JPVP135CD ). The recordings date from the time when Miles was a sideman with many different bands and musicians in the late forties and early fifties and as such contain some rare recordings that have been sourced from radio broadcasts with Benny Carter and live dates in addition to studio sessions with the likes of Tadd Dameron and Kai Winding. As an insight to the early years of this jazz icon, Early Miles will be an indispensable addition to any Miles Davis or jazz fans collection. The recordings contained on this album have been re mastered for release in order to give them the best quality possible.
  • Dizzy Gillespie: Portrait Of Jenny. Breathless 52008. Little known but beautifully played set by Gillespie and combo originally released on Perception in 1970, featuring pianists Mike Long and George Davis, bassist Andrew Gonzalez, conga players Jerry Gonzalez and Carlos Valdes and timbale player Nicholas Marrero.
  • Herbie Hancock: Hear O Israel. Trunk Records JBH025CD/LP. Street date: 06/06/08. This is NOT a session under Herbie's leadership as the title wrongly implies! In fact this is a reissue of an album originally privately pressed in 1968 in minute numbers and only for sale by mail order that year; the album was written by 17 year old Jonathon Klein (playing on it French Horn and baritone sax) and played by one of the greatest jazz line ups of all time: Herbie Hancock leading the way on piano, Jerome Richardson on flute, tenor and alto sax, Thad Jones on trumpet and flugelhorn, Ron Carter on bass and Grady Tate on drums. There are also vocalists present. Musically the album is quite superb and like no other, with its awesome and wholly unique mixture of spiritual New York jazz, Hebrew praises and modal phrases. Reissued on CD and LP!
  • Johnny Hartman: 20 Bit remastered releases from the label Definitive Records + booklet with extensive notes.
    - Raindrops Keep Falling On My Head. Complete Perception sessions. On these albums the warm ballad singer modernizes his sound and sings more recent straight-ahead pop material accompanied by George Coleman or Jimmy Heath on reeds, pianist Herman Foster, drummer Billy Higgins, Al Gafa on guitar and others.
    - You came A Long Way From Saint Louis. Complete Savoy and Musicor sessions.

  • Earl Hines: Plays Duke Ellington. this is a 3CD boxset reissue of recordings previously available separately on the New World label.

  • Billie Holiday 9CD Boxset!: Good Morning Blues: The Complete Columbia Recordings 1933 - 1950 (UV100/9)/ Universe.
    This definitive nine CD box set, celebrating one of the most important voices in the history of jazz, contains everything Billie Holiday ever recorded for Columbia, from 1933 to 1950! Accompanied by the musicians who helped her make jazz history (Benny Carter, Duke Ellington, Count Basie and Eddie Heywood, etc) and their orchestras (featuring Lester Young, Buck Clayton, Kenny Clarke, Ben Webster and Art Tatum, to name a few). 230 tracks in all - over eleven hours of non stop Lady Day! Also includes booklet with extensive liner notes and photos.
  • JUST INCREDIBLE! The Jazz Casual series led by Ralph McGleason are now available at very low prices, even say ridiculous if you take the VHS, now at the price of a cheap CD (around €12,5). Each program is about half an hour and there are 28 references (VHS) or 14 (the DVD version couples two programs). Ask for the list!
  • Mailbag Blues: Ronnie Biggs' Story. Whatmusic (WMCD-0065). the 1974 original instrumental jazz-rock soundtrack to the life of Ronnie Biggs. This is Ronnie's story expressed by some of the great musicians of the day in Brazil, led by his friend and fellow music lover, the American Bass player Bruce Henry. Recorded in Rio de Janeiro 30 years ago, this is the first time this album has ever been released!
  • Chris Mcgregor Group: Very Urgent (FLD3059). This is the first record of the pre-Brotherhood of Breath, released in 1968. Now available as CD!
  • Chris Mcgregor's Brotherhood Of Breath: Brotherhood (FLD3063). Reissue of the second album by the band (1972), still in its initial incarnation and with this brilliant cast of British musicians (Gary Windo, Nick Evans, Harry Beckett, Mark Charig, Alan Skidmore, Harry Miller ...) surrounding the South-African nucleus of Louis Moholo, Dudu Pukwana, Mongezi Feza
  • Fans of Chris McGregor's Brotherhood Of Breath (BOB), rejoice! Nothing less than 3 releases are right now available on CD. BOB's "Country Cooking" on the label Great Winds (Musea distribution), "Travelling Somewhere" on Cuneiform Records (an unreleased radio concert from Radio Bremen 2) and finally the eponymous title "Chris McGregor's Brotherhood Of Breath" on Akarma; this mini LP reproduction with the original gatefold cover presents Chris's second formation around 1970. Enjoy!
  • Memphis Horns: s/t. DB Works DBK516. Arguably the greatest soul horn section ever, the Memphis Horns were a critical part of the Stax/Atlantic Records formula during the '60s and '70s. Featuring the duo of trumpetist Wayne Jackson and tenor saxophonist Andrew Love, they also backed King Curtis and Aretha Franklin in the '70s. But they are best known for appearances on songs by virtually every Stax artist. Their self-titled debut album for Atlantic Records was originally released in 1970 and features hot instrumental grooves on songs they originally recorded as well as some cooking original southern soul of their own. First time on CD!
  • Charles Mingus: Stuttgart Meditations. Coming from the Italian label Get Back, delayed and now planned for release in September 2007, offered both as a 2CD or a 3LP, here's a concert from April 28th, 1964 in Stuttgart, Germany (and NOT 18th as given by the label). At this time, Mingus was at his most creative and prolific - he would release more than 30 albums over the course of the decade. His touring combo featured trumpetist Johnny Coles, the great Eric Dolphy (who would die in Berlin just two monthes later), saxophonist Clifford Jordan, pianist Jaki Byard and his long time complice, drummer Dannie Richmond.
  • Charles Mingus: Cornell 1964. True Blue Music. 2CD. An amazing new discovery! The extraordinary group of Charles Mingus, Eric Dolphy, Clifford Jordan, Johnny Coles, Jaki Byard and Dannie Richmond in one of its first public appearances at Cornell University in upstate New York on March 18, 1964. The band went on to record at Town Hall and during its European tour, but nothing matches the buoyant joy that pervades every track here, especially a rousing, wild "Take The A Train." In addition to many well-known Mingus compositions, the band performs Dolphy's arrangement of "Jitterbug Waltz." Truly great music!
  • The spanish label Jazz Factory has released Charles Mingus complete 1945-1949 West Coast Recordings. This gathers recordings by Baron Mingus and His Octet or His Rhythm or His Symphonic Airs, Charles Mingus Sextet and an early attempt at big band music with His 22 Piece Bebop Band (Stan Kenton's sidemen). 24 bit edition.
  • Ninesense was the band led by ex-Soft Machine saxophonist Elton Dean. Their two albums - Oh For The Edge (76) and Happy Daze (77) - are due to CD reissue on the British label Ogun! Ninesense was a large ensemble including the best British musicians from the free jazz scene ( pianist Keith Tippett, trumpetist Harry Beckett and more ...) as well as South-African in exile like drummer Louis Moholo
  • Perception "Perception". Ever heard of it? This is the reissue on Mellow Records of a 1971 record featuring Yosh'ko Seffert, Didier Levallet and Siegfried Kessler. A good idea to dust it off!
  • Bud Powell: Live At The Blue Note Café (Paris 1961). Originally released as trio with bassist Pierre Michelot and drummer Kenny Clarke, this album is now presented with a new look (new cover and liner notes), remastered and completed with unreleased tracks featuring saxophonist Zoot Sims
  • A new release on Dawn Records! Jimmy Raney: Visits Paris. DR115. August 2006. These Paris recordings from February 10, 1954 gave the American audiences an opportunity to hear not only more of Raney's fine style and sound, articulated as always with brilliance and taste, but also something of what was going on in jazz across the ocean. Except Bobby Jaspar
  • Django Reinhardt: Sultan of Swing – The Complete Gramophone, HMV, Swing Recordings, 1936-53. This luxury packaged 6CD box set is the definitive collection of the most inspired years of this virtuoso artist. Includes a very interesting photo booklet with extensive historical liner notes.
  • Sonny Rollins: Soneymoon (Get Back GET 2035). Offered either as CD or 2LP, recorded between 1963 and 1966, these live gigs performed by the Sonny Rollins/Don Cherry Quartet (Paris, January, 1963), the Sonny Rollins Quintet with members of the Modern Jazz Quartet (Berlin, Oct. 30, 1965) and the Sonny Rollins Trio (Graz, Austria, Nov. 12, 1966) showcase the magnificent sounds that made Rollins one of the top horn players of his day and one of the most interesting, prolific, and long-lasting jazz icons of all time. Street date around mid september 2007
  • Archie Shepp & The Full Moon Ensemble: Live In Antibes vol. 2. CD. Amazing live recordings (dated July 18 and 20, 1970) captured in France at the Antibes-Juan Les Pins Jazz Festival. Archie Shepp & The Full Moon Ensemble (including Alan Shorter, Clifford Thornton, Joseph DeJean, Beb Guerin and Claude Delcloo) play four long and intense tracks.
  • Sonny Stitt: Just Friends (Live At Bubba’s Jazz Restaurant). Universe. Three legends of swing of the calibre of Sonny Stitt, Harry “Sweets” Edison and Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis, are featured here for the first time ever, accompanied by a perfect rhythm section. This 1981 live at Ft. Lauderdale’s Bubba’s Jazz Restaurant records an exceptional night when the art of improvising became a supreme form of entertainment.
  • Sun Ra: Live in Cleveland 1975. Golden Years GY29. March 09. Another unreleased concert, featuring among other a delirious synth solo lasting over 8 minutes! With John Gilmore, Marshall Allen and more ...
  • Sun Ra: Media Dreams. Recommended RER0242. This 2CD presents the 2nd part of the concert given in 1978 at the Teatro Cilak in Milano. Sun Ra is heavily represented on keyboards (including the mysterious Crumar Mainman, not even known by the manufacturer!!). John Gilmore is on tenor, besides a trumpetist and a drummer. This record is the little brother of "Disco 3000", released earlier in 2007 on an Italian label
  • Sun Ra & His Space Arkhestra: What Planet Is This ? (GY 24-25). Double CD carefully remastered of a concert given in New York on July 6, 1973. This was an immensely creative period for the group so please enjoy those two hours of sheer ecstasy!
  • Sun Ra : The Cry Of Jazz. DVD. An archive documentary film realized in Chicago in the late 50’s, filmed and edited by the composer and arranger Edward O. Bland.
  • Gabor Szabo: 1969. Skye Records SK 1005. May 08. With this album, Szabo deserves credit for bringing a jazz perspective to songs that so many other improvisers were ignoring. "Walk Away Renee" (a major hit for The Four Tops), the Beatles' "In My Life," and Joni Mitchell's "Both Sides Now". Produced by Gary McFarland, this 1969 date originally came out on vinyl and it’s finally reissued on CD in its entirety.
  • Ben Webster: Complete 1953 Leader Studio Sessions (for Verve and Mercury).
  • Finally released! The meeting between the two pianists Joe Zawinul and Friedrich Gulda is now available with the title: Music For Two Pianos.

    • BLUE NOTE ... BLUE NOTE ... BLUE NOTE ... BLUE NOTE ... BLUE NO...

  • New Blue Note "Rudy Van Gelder (RGV) releases!

    + Paul Chambers: Bass On Top. Quartet with Kenny Burrell, Hank Jones, and Art Taylor, with built arrangements which feature his instrument prominently on melodies and solos. His bowed work is a thing of beauty. this Rudy Van Gelder remaster includes a seventh track from the session that was not on the original album.
    + Walter Davis Jr.: Davis Cup. Debut as a leader and, given the quality and variety of the writing and playing on this 1959 date, it's a shame that he remained so under recorded throughout his life. This is the pure Blue Note sound with Donald Byrd and Jackie McLean in peak form.
    + Lou Donaldson: Gravy Train. This 1961 album features the signature sound that Lou Donaldson established in 1957 and hit pay dirt with a year later on Blues Walk.
    + Kenny Dorham: Afro-Cuban. This album is the first flowering of Kenny Dorham as a significant trumpet stylist and composer. Using the newly formed Jazz Messengers as the core of these ensembles, Dorham crafted Latin pieces which would quickly become jazz standards. The large ensemble tracks with J.J. Johnson and driven by Patato Valdes's congas are especially effective. An additional tune and an alternate take from the sessions are included.
    + Art Farmer: Brass Shout / Aztec Suite. This 67-minute CD reissues for the first time two undeservedly overlooked 1959 United Artists LP by Art Farmer. Brass Shout, the first seven tracks, features a tentet with eight all-star brass players including Lee Morgan fueled by vivid Benny Golson arrangements, Percy Heath's bass and the drums of Philly Joe Jones or Elvin Jones . The Aztec Suite is a tour de force by the great Afro-Cuban arranger Chico O'Farrill which puts Farmer in front of a full big band with three Latin percussionist.
    + Dizzie Gillespie: Gillespie/Moody/Fuller & Monterey Jazz Festival Orchestra. In 1965, arranger Gil Fuller pulled together the cream of L.A.'s jazz and studio scenes to form the Monterey Jazz Orchestra which performed at that year's festival and recorded two Pacific Jazz albums, one spotlighting Gillespie and the other Moody. Fuller pulls choice tunes from be-bop, tin pan alley and contemporary originals to create beautiful canvases for his old friends. The result is some exceptional playing from Gillespie and Moody. Both albums, newly remixed from the original three and four-track master tapes, are complete on this 75-minute CD.
    + Grant Green: The Latin Bit. This album is a delightful foray into a variety of Latin styles from South American standards to New York Latino hits to jazz tunes with an Afro-Cuban tinge. Wille Bobo and Patato Valdes drive the proceedings beautifully, and Green is cooking throughout. Three bonus tracks, two from a later session with Ike Quebec, have been added to the original album.
    + Herbie Hancock: Takin' Off. Pianist/composer Herbie Hancock was a year away from joining Miles Davis when he made his debut album on Blue Note, with an exceptional line-up that feature Freddie Hubbard and Dexter Gordon
    + Bobby Hutcherson: Head On. This is the first appearance on CD of this fascinating 1971 album that mixes grooves with artful orchestration. Most of the material is written and arranged by pianist Todd Cochran. Besides his keyboard and Hutcherson's vibes, tenor saxophonist Harold Land and trumpeter Oscar Brashear are the featured soloists. Three previously unissued bonus tracks bring the CD to 78:30.
    + Thad Jones: The Magnificent Thad Jones. Debut album from 1956 with fellow Detroiters Billy Mitchell and Barry Harris, and ringers Percy Heath and Max Roach
    + Duke Jordan: Flight To Jordan. Album from 1960 which was his first full album as a leader and features the distinctive front line of Stanley Turrentine and Dizzy Reece. Added to the album's six great Jordan compositions are another original and a trio version of "I Should Care."
    + Nigel Kennedy: Blue Note Sessions. After decades of dazzling the world with record-breaking classical performances, the English violin virtuoso Nigel Kennedy has begun charting a new artistic course with Blue Note Sessions, a breathtaking jazz recording. Although a radical departure from his lifelong study of the classics, there are still hallmark signatures of this uniquely gifted musician who has so changed the face of classical music. Features a host of well-established names like Joe Lovano, Kenny Werner, Ron Carter & Jack DeJohnette among others.
    + Lee Morgan: Indeed. Debut album for Blue note. also released are "Candy", his only quartet date, "Volume 2" (dedicated to the compositions and arrangements of Benny Golson and Owen Marshall), "Volume 3" (sextet recorded on March 24, 1957 and exclusively focusing on Benny Golson compositions, "Delightfulee", started as a project for an 11-piece band arranged by Oliver Nelson, not included on the original album, and featuring Wayne Shorter, completed by four tunes which were put on the shelf and forced Morgan to cut four sides six weeks later with a quintet that included Joe Henderson and McCoy Tyner.
    + Ike Quebec: Soul Samba. Quebec's take on the bossa nova craze that exploded that year (1962) is more muscular than Stan Getz's and doesn't rely on the familiar Jobim and Gilberto songs of the day. Three alternate takes have been added to the original album.
    + Jimmy Smith: Back at the Chicken Shack. CAP93777. Back at the Chicken Shack is one of organist Jimmy Smith's classic Blue Note sessions, and the first to draw attention to tenor saxophonist Stanley Turrentine. Recorded in 1960, the group reaches the peak of funky soul-jazz that all other challengers of the genre would have to live up to. Also released is "Midnight Special", Jimmy Smith's April 25, 1950 session, with the perfect cast of Stanley Turrentine, Kenny Burrell, and Donald Bailey
    + Louis Smith: Smithville. This second album has never been issued on CD until now and never issued in stereo in any format. Leading an exceptional quintet with Charlie Rouse, Sonny Clark, Paul Chambers and Art Taylor, Smith blazes his way through eight excellent performances, including two bonus tracks from the session, which were never issued in the US.
    + Jacky Terrasson: Mirror. For his first album since 2003's Smile, pianist Jacky Terrasson returns with heightened vitality on a superb solo outing, Mirror. The CD is a wide-ranging collection of re-envisioned standards, a jewel of a new standard, and six song-like originals, all delivered with a spontaneous joie de vivre.
    + Stanley Turrentine: Return Of The Prodigal Son. On CD for the first time are two 1967 tentet sessions by Stanley Turrentine, soulfully arranged by Duke Pearson with the locked-in rhythm section of McCoy Tyner, Bob Cranshaw & Ray Lucas. Seven of the ten selections have been previously issued in the LPs but they are now brought together in complete form here, totaling 59 minutes. Turrentine's soulful tenor sax is the prime voice throughout this program of hip bossa novas, blues, standards and pop tunes. His reading of Aretha Franklin's "Dr. Feelgood" (heard here in two takes) is an absolute killer.


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  • Blue Note releases (RVG Edition) announced on March 7, 2007:
    + Donald Byrd: The Cat Walk. The Donald Byrd-Pepper Adams Quintet made a lot of recordings between 1958 and 1961, but The Cat Walk is, by far, their best and most inspired album, due in large part to the originals by Byrd and Duke Pearson and the amazing, catalytic drumming of Philly Joe Jones.
    + Dexter Gordon: Clubhouse. Recorded in 1965 with Freddie Hubbard, Barry Harris, Bob Cranshaw (replaced by Ben Tucker on track 3), and Billy Higgins
    + Andrew Hill: Compulsion!!!!! With this album, the pianist/composer moved his music into denser, freer territory adding two percussionists to the quintet with great results. These extended performances driven by Joe ChambersFreddie Hubbard & John Gilmore.
    + Thad Jones: Detroit - New York Junction. For his second Blue Note album, recorded in March 1956, Thad Jones recruited some old Detroit friends who were recent arrivals in New York: Billy Mitchell, Kenny Burrell, and Tommy Flanagan. For bass and drums, he chose the venerated New York greats Oscard Pettiford and Shadow Wilson
    + Jackie McLean: New And Old Gospel. This unusual March 24, 1967 session added guest artist Ornette Coleman (playing only trumpet!) to McLean's regular quartet.
    + Art Taylor: A.T.'s Delight. For his only album made under his own name for the label, Taylor assembled a great quintet fronted by Dave Burns and Stanley Turrentine, often adding Patato's congas to the proceedings.
  • A rich program of RVG (Rudy Van Gelder) reissues for August and September on the label Blue Note. See here:

    + Lee Morgan: The Cooker. 5th album by the trumpetist for the label. With Pepper Adams: baritone sax, Bobby Timmons: piano, Paul Chambers: bass, Philly Joe Jones: drums
    + Hank Mobley: Another Workout. During 1960 and 1961, Hank Mobley made four albums with fellow Miles Davis bandmates Wynton Kelly and Paul Chambers. Soul Station, Roll Call, and Workout had become hailed as the high points of his career (and they remain so). Mysteriously, the fourth session sat forgotten in the tape vaults until it was issued in 1986 as Another Workout. The Quartet is completed by the amazing Philly Joe Jones.
    + Johnny Griffin: The Congregation. With Johnny Griffin: tenor sax, Sonny Clark: piano, Paul Chambers: bass, Kenny Dennis: drums
    + Kenny Dorham: Trompeta Toccata. With Kenny Dorham: trumpet, Joe Henderson: tenor sax, Tommy Flanagan: piano, Richard Davis: bass, Albert Heath: drums
    + Donald Byrd: Royal Flush. This album, recorded in September 1961, was the swan song for the wonderful team of Donald Byrd and Pepper Adams, but it was also the introduction to the jazz world of a remarkable pianist/composer who has dominated the music scene ever since, Herbie Hancock.Ike Quebec: It Might As Well Be Spring. 2nd album with the line-up of Freddie Roach: organ, Milt Hinton: bass and Al Harewood: drums
    + Horace Silver: Doin'the Thing At the Village Gate. This live date (Silver's only official live album) was recorded at the Village Gate in New York City in May 1961, and finds the group in peak form, tearing through one great Silver original after another. With Blue Mitchell: trumpet, Junior Cook: tenor sax, Gene Taylor: bass and Roy Brooks: drums
    + Freddie Hubbard: Here To Stay. This album was recorded in December 1962, mastered, given a catalog number and a cover that even appeared on inner sleeves of other Blue Note albums. But for reasons unknown, this recording, which Hubbard later proclaimed one of his favorites, sat in the can for another 13 years! With the exception of Philly Joe Jones, all of the musicians were members of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers at the time.
    + Donald Byrd: Off to the Races. His first session for the label as a leader. With Jackie McLean: alto sax, Pepper Adams: baritone sax, Wynton Kelly: piano, Sam Jones: bass and Art Taylor: drums
    + Lee Morgan: City Lights. The fourth Blue Note album by 19-year-old trumpet phenomenon Lee Morgan in August 1957. With Curtis Fuller: trombone, George Coleman: alto & tenor sax, Ray Byrant: piano, Paul Chambers: bass and Art Taylor: drums
    + Jackie McLean: Demon's Dance. Recorded in December 1967, it was McLean's last Blue Note album, featuring a young drummer and raising star in the person of Jack DeJohnette. Also noteworthy is the presence of trumpetist Woody Shaw
    + Bobby Hutcherson: Happenings. With the exception of Hancock's "Maiden Voyage," the material is originals by the vibist, and the range and harmonic depth of his compositions is as impressive as his playing. A unique and rewarding album in the long career of this exceptional musician. The rhythm section is composed of bassist Bob Cranshaw and Joe Chambers on drums and marimba.

  • Re-issue due to May 16, 2006 on Blue Note!
    Cannonball Adderley featuring Joe Zawinul: Why Am I Treated So Bad? This record was the follow up of "Mercy, Mercy, Mercy".

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    ESP REISSUES ... ESP REISSUES ... ESP REISSUES ... ESP REISSUES ...

  • Albert Ayler: The Hilversum Session. ESP 4035. Sept. 07. This covers the integrality of the historical session recorded by the Swedis Radio on November 9, 1964. Same principle for this recording: remastered, with new cover and liner notes. As a present, a fold-out poster!
  • Albert Ayler: Slugs' Saloon. Dec. 2005 ESP 4025. This double CD presents officially for the first time the complete concert of May 1, 1966. There have been previously uncomplete releases on various labels (Fruit Tree from Italy and Lone Hill in Spain).
  • Albert Ayler: Spiritual Unity. Sept. 2005. ESP 1002. Recorded on July 10th, 1964 with Sunny Murray on drums and bassist Gary Peacock. This is THE record of Albert Ayler, the record of the shout and ecstasy by which everything starts and ends!
  • Albert Ayler: Live On The Riviera. ESP 4001. For the first time officially, here is the first evening concert from July 25, 1970 at the Maeght Foundation. It presents the quartet without pianist Cal Cobbs.
  • Albert Ayler: Bells / Prophecy. ESP 4006. Reissue of the two live albums on ESP.
  • Gato Barbieri: In Search Of The Mystery. ESP 1049. June 09. Reissue of the first album as leader by the Argentinean saxophonist; it was in 1967!
  • Paul Bley Trio: Closer. ESP 1021. Reissue of Bley's 2nd album for ESP in 1965 with Steve Swallow on acoustic bass (his early period!) and Barry Altschul on drums. This album could also be seen as an homage to Bley's wives, since it presents 7 compositions by Carla and one by Annette! Bley comes with one tune and there is a last piece by Ornette Coleman. Remastered from the original masters.
  • Marion Brown: Capricorn Moon. Reissue ESP 4011. ESP had through time released 2 versions of this album, one with the tune "Exhibition", the other with "Mephistopheles", wrongly credited to Wayne Shorter. In fact both tunes are from the pen of his brother Alan and this reissue finally presents the integral version of an album recorded just a few monthes after the seminal "Ascension" by John Coltrane. A rare occasion to rediscover the playing of Alan Shorter, here with so many great names such as Bennie Maupin, Rashied Ali, Reggie Johnson ....
  • Don Cherry Quintet: Live at Café Montmartre 1966 / Vol 3. ESP 4051. March 09. Last part of the recordings from 1966 at the Danish club Montmartre with Gato Barbieri, vibraphonist Karl Berger, the Italo-French drummer Aldo Romano and the local Danish bass player Bo Stief
  • Don Cherry Quintet: Live At Café Montmartre. ESP 4032. Sept. 07. This concert given in 1966 at the reknown Danish club was taking place between two major albums recorde by the trumpetist for Blue Note: "The Complete Communion" and "Symphony for Improvisers". Cherry had gathered a spectacular international line-up, including the Argentinean saxophonist Gato Barbieri, the German vibraphonist Karl Berger, the Italian born drummer Aldo Romano and the Danish bass player Bo Stief, replacing here on this recording the French Jean-François Jenny-Clark. This CD is also coming along with a bonus DVD called "Smorgasboard", filled with 1,43GB (12 hours of listening!!!) of data, offering extracts of nearly all ESP albums! There is a menu system where you select the artist or the tune you want and while you're listening, you can also read on your screen historical infos about the band or the record, see the cover of the album, etc... so what do you say? Is this the Cherry on the cake? ;-)
  • Lowell Davidson: Trio. ESP 1012. This only session recorded in 1965 by the pianist with Gary Peacock on bass and Milford Graves on drums is in the lineage of the trios put up by Cecil Taylor or Herbie Nichols
  • Milford Graves: Percussion Ensemble. ESP 1015. This is a reissue of stuff recorded on August 6, 1966 for ESP. Together with percussionist Sonny Morgan, Graves invites us here to a musical and much rhythmycal fest inspired by traditional African or Asian musics and performed on a plethora of drums, clocks, gongs, maracas and other percussions.
  • Burton Greene: Bloom in Commune. ESP 4038. Dec. 07. the pianist Burton Greene was with Alan Silva the illustrious co-founder of the Free Form Improvisation Ensemble. This is the remastered edition of his 2nd album for ESP in 1965, completed with interviews about the recording session, the state of mind of free musicians in the 60's, etc...
  • Gunter Hampel Group: Music from Europe. ESP 1042. Sept. 08. A forgotten page in the history of European free music! The 3 suites (Assemblage, Heroicredolphysiognomystery, Make Love Not War To Everybody) were recorded on December 21, 1966 and composed by multi instrumentist Hampel (vibraphone, bass clarinet, flute). Saxophonist Willem Breuker, the Dutch drummer Pierre Courbois and bass player Piet Veening complete the line-up
  • Billie Holiday: Live Broadcasts. ESP 4039. Dec. 07. This is a boxset of 5 CDs. the first CD presenting us a young lady aged 20, just arrived from her native Baltimore and thrown in those huge swing machines which were the big bands of Duke Ellington (1935) and Count Basie (1937). The 4 other CDs cover the period from 1949 to 1959. The two booklets abound in moving photos, comments on the historical context of the USA at that time, explanations of the lyics, a chronological survey of Billie's concerts and radio shows, in short: a major anthology!
  • Norman Howard / Joe Phillips: Burn Baby Burn. ESP 4033. Sept. 07. Recorded in 1968, those sessions happened at a time of big financial problems for the label, which wasn't able to release them. The master tapes just have been miraculously rediscovered and this is only justice than to finally hear this capital recording of free jazz by a musician (trumpetist Howard) who not only was originating from Cleveland like Albert Ayler, but also was his partner on the albums "Spirits" and "Witches & Devils".
  • Bob James Trio: Explosions. ESP 1009. This reissue will bring back to our mind another Bob James as the sweet muzak pop guy! In 1965, backed by Barre Philips and percussionist Robert Pozar, Bob was haunted by more experimental spirits and ESP was just started!
  • Ellis Marsalis: Ruminations In New York. ESP 4000. Recorded in 2003.
  • the self-titled album Sunny Murray is today reissued by ESP (ESP4037), remastered, with new cover and liner notes, interviews of Murray and the ESP owner as bonus tracks
  • Pharoah Sanders: Pharoah’s First. ESP 4008. Reissue of the album from 64
  • Revolutionary Ensemble: Vietnam. ESP 3007. Oct. 09. This is the reissue of the debut album (1972) by one of the classic avant-garde groups of the 70's. Featuring violinist Leroy Jenkins (formerly a member of the AACM), bassist Sirone (also playing cello) and percussionist Jerome Cooper, the group was an early example of chamber music within the avant-garde format, one that emphasized subtlety within its instrumentation (string instruments instead of saxophones) and compositions. The band existed primarily from 1971 to 1977.
  • Sonny Simmons: The Complete Esp Disk Recordings. ESP 4012. After having met Eric Dolphy, Charles Mingus and Elvin Jones in New York during the early 60's, the alt saxophonist Sonny Simmons recorded his two first records - "Staying on the Watch" and "Music Of The Spheres" - with trumpetist Barbara Donald and pianist John Hicks. Those are noe reissued by ESP.
  • Sun Ra: Featuring Pharoah Sanders & Black Harold. ESP 4054. With more than 45 minutes unreleased material, this recording from 1964 will give us the possibility to hear Pharoah Sanders before his move to rejoin Coltrane's band, here replacing the Arkestra's milestone John Gilmore. But the presence of the too less known flutist Harold Murray and the astounding bass work of Alan Silva are also small jewels to be discovered
  • Sun Ra: Horizon. Recommended Records (RER 0250). April 09. After touring Denmark in 1971, Sun Ra decided to bring his Arkestra to Egypt, travelling there with no planned gigs! Fortunately, everything fell to place very quickly and the present album, known previously as Sun Ra in Egypt Vol.2, gives us chosen extracts of the concerts at Cairo's Balloon Theatre or the Heliopolis. Many bonus have also been added.
  • Sun Ra: Heliocentric Worlds Vol 3. ESP 4002. The remaining and until now unreleased tapes of the session from November 16, 1965 have been newly found and remastered. They include pieces like Intercosmosis Mythology, Metamorphosis, World Worlds, Interplanetary Travelers.
  • Sun Ra: Concert For The Comet Kohoutek (3033). Fabulous concert from December 22, 1973 at New York's Town Hall. The album has been remastered.
  • Sun Ra: Heliocentric Worlds Vol 1 & 2. ESP 4005. From 65.
  • Sun Ra: Nothing Is. ESP 4024. The strong>Arkestra recorded during a tour in New York, 1966.
  • Charles Tyler: Charles Tyler Ensemble. ESP 1029. Oct. 09. Reissue of the debut album by Charles Tyler, from Albert Ayler's band, here playing on alto sax. His group, featuring an unusual instrumentation of cello, bass (the mighty Henry Grimes), drums (the great Ronald Shannon Jackson), orchestra vibes (Charles Moffett) and saxophone, plays through his original compositions.
  • Patty Waters: The Complete Esp-disk Recordings. Jan. 2006. ESP 4019. Reissue and remastering of her two cult albums "Sings" from 1965 and "College Tour" from 1966.
  • Frank Wright Allstars: Unity. ESP 4028. Wright, bassist Alan Silva, pianist Bobby Few and drummer Muhammad Ali were all previous partners of albert Ayler and founded the group "Center Of The World" in 1970, one of the major free jazz quartets from the 70's. At their top in 1974, they were recorded on June 1 for this concert at the Moers Jazz Festival.
  • Frank Wright: The Complete Esp Recordings. ESP 4007. Reissue on one CD of the two albums "The Earth" and "Your Prayer". Session from November 65. Also included is an interview of the saxophonist!
  • Lester Young: Live at Birdland. ESP 4040. Dec. 07. Remastered edition of a classic ESP + unreleased tracks added. Prez in concert during the 50's

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    FRESH SOUND RECORDS .... FRESH SOUND RECORDS .... FRESH SOUND ....

    Fresh Sound Records:


  • Dizzy Gillespie: The Eternal Triangles. Freshsound FSR 558. Sept. 09. This 2CD gathers 3 three classic LPs on which Dizzy is joined by Sonny Rollins, Sonny Stitt & Stan Getz in different settings. On the 1957 sessions, which produced the albums Duets and "Sonny Side Up", Dizzy, in prime form, shares an uncannily empathetic relationship with Rollins and Stitt (both on tenor), agilely supported by the Bryant brothers, Ray and Tommy, and drummer Charlie Persip. On the 1956 "For Musicians Only" album, Stitt is playing only alto because Stan Getz did not want to have two tenors on the session. The rhythm section is fabulous with John Lewis on piano, Herb Ellis on guitar, Ray Brown on bass and finally drummer Stan Levey
  • The Dave Brubeck Quartet: Newport 1958. Freshsound FSR 557. Sept. 09. Recorded live at the Newport Jazz Festival, July 3, 1958 (#1-7) and live at Stratford, Ontario, Canada, August 3, 1956 (#8). These performances by the Dave Brubeck quartet are an impressive tribute to Duke’s music and among the very best of the Brubeck quartet offerings.
  • Coleman Hawkins & Roy Eldridge: Live at The Opera House. Freshsound FSR 556. Sept. 09. This CD contains the two complete sets by the Coleman Hawkins/Roy Eldridge quintet recorded it the fall of 1957 at the "Civic Opera House" in Chicago (stereo) and at the "Shrine Auditorium" in Los Angeles (mono). An astonishing surprise is the rhythm section, which consists of three quarters of the Modern Jazz Quartet: John Lewis, Percy Heath and Connie Kay. They swing hard, proving they were versatile enough to change their style when accompanying their two elders.
  • Louis Bellson Quintet: Greetings. Freshsound FSR 555. Sept. 09. Recorded in NYC in 1954 & 1955, these superbly swinging sides are a showcase for some outstanding soloists. On the first date, saxophonist Zoot Sims is in top form, with Love for Sale offering some of his best playing on record, while trumpetist Charlie Shavers stays within the bounds of good taste and conceptual interest, blowing with his characteristic verve. On the second session, Seldon Powell is on tenor, playing with soul, ease and lightness, but always with authority. Wendell Marshall provides a full, solid and dependable bass, and Lou Stein's piano transmits his signature strong beat. The final result is a relaxed but combustible blend of swing era and mainstream modern jazz that still retains its freshness and enjoyment. Originally released as "Concerto For Drums" and "The Hawk Talks"
  • Shelly Manne & His Men: Septet and Quintet Sessions 1951-1958 - Here’s That Manne. FSR2251. July 09. 3CD Set + 60-page booklet illustrated. Opening with his first recordings as a leader for Dee Gee Records in 1951 (Chicago) and 1952 (Los Angeles), this collection covers both these septet sessions and the great series of all-star septet and quintet recordings made for Contemporary
  • Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis: Count Basie Presents The Tenor of Eddie “Lockjaw” Davis featuring Joe Newman and Shirley Scott. FSR 553. June 09. This CD is special for several reasons. The first part is a session that Count Basie produced in 1957 for “Lockjaw” with another Basie alumnus, the great trumpeter Joe Newman. What makes this album unusually interesting is that Basie plays the piano while Shirley Scott plays the organ. To complete this CD, a special compilation has been added – eight little-known recordings of tunes when Basie was featuring “Lockjaw” in his big band (1952-1957) which show that the pair were simply destined for each other musically in one of the historic comings-together in jazz
  • Johnny Griffin & Wilbur Ware: The Chicago Sound. FSR 548. June 09. Recorded in 1956 and 1957 in Chicago, here are two albums gathered on one CD (originally released on Riverside and Argo). Among other players is the seldom met New Orleans drummerBuddy Smith
  • The Swinging Buddy Rich: West Coast All-Star Sessions. Arrangements by Johnny Mandel & Marty Paich. FSR 552. June 09. The two albums "The Swinging Buddy Rich" and "This One's For Basie" are gathered on this CD and presents several formations (Buddy Rich's All-star / nonet / orchestra) recorded in Hollywood between 1953 and 1956.
  • Red Rodney: Quintets 1955-1959 Borrowed Times. FSR 554. June 09. The 3 albums "Modern Music From Chicago" (on Fantasy), "Red Rodney" (on Signal) and "Red Rodney Returns" (on Argo) are gathered on this 2CD, presenting music recorded in Chicago (1955), Hackensack (1957) and Philadelphia (1959). Several first class drummers are to be found: Roy Haynes, Elvin Jones, Philly Joe Jones alongside bass player Oscar Pettiford, pianist Tommy Flanagan and many other
  • George Wein presents... Zoot Sims / Bob Brookmeyer Quintet: Tonite’s Music Today. FSR 549. New York 1956. Theses fine sessions demonstrate not only the considerable solo jazz capacities of Zoot Sims and Bob Brookmeyer, but also the stimulation they enjoyed in each other’s musical company, which inspired skillful, bracing and deceptively casual interplay. They remain among the most relaxed and informal small combo sessions produced by George Wein’s Storyville Records. The rhythm sections are flexible and swinging, with pianist Hank Jones soloing with his usual refreshing combination of clear, flowing articulation, swinging taste, and structural sense.
  • A host of Buddy Colette's related releases are ready in January 2009. Buddy Collette And His West Coast Friends (FSR 2248) are Hollywood recordings from 1956, featuring among other guitarist Jim Hall and drummer Chico Hamilton (covering the album Tanganyka and Mood for Max, a Max Albright’s drummer date); Buddy Collette and His Quartet: Calm, Cool & Collette - Complete Sessions Featuring Dick Shreve (FSR 2249) are sessions from the ABC studios in 1956 and 1957. Bassist Eugene Wright is featured here. Buddy Collette Quartet & Quintet sessions 1956-1957 - An Original Westcoaster (FSR 2250) covers 5 sessions and features among celebrities guitarist Barney Kessel, drummer Shelly Manne
  • "Something New, Something Blue" and Swinging “Guys And Dolls” are two albums conceived in 1959 to showcase the talents of 4 composer-arrangers: Manny Albam, Teddy Charles, Bill Russo and Teo Macero, working in that still undefined area of modern music in which jazz meets the more traditional “concert” forms. To perform the arrangements, an orchestra was set up: The Manhattan Jazz All-Stars, featuring the cream of jazz musicians back then, just look: Art Farmer, Donald Byrd, (tp), Frank Rehak, Bob Brookmeyer (tb), Phil Woods, Hal McKusick (as), Teo Macero, Zoot Sims, Al Cohn (ts), Julius Watkins (Frh), Bill Evans, Eddie Costa, Mal Waldron (p), George Duvivier, Aaron Bell (b), Jimmy Raney (g) ...
  • J.J. Johnson Quintet: Complete Recordings Featuring Bobby Jaspar (FSR 538). Jan.09. CD1: New York, 1956-1957 and CD2: New York and Live “Cafe Bohemia” New York, 1957. With Elvin Jones on drums, brother Hank or Tommy Flanagan on piano, Percy Heath or Wilbur Little on bass.
  • “Symphony Sid” presents Monday Nights At Birdland (FSR 537). Jan. 09. Birdland was the Mecca for most modernists of the 50s. It was the only club in New York City where a big band could play. Bookings were mostly for solid two week periods. On Monday nights the regulars were off, and the legendary jazz disc jockey “Symphony Sid” (1909-1984) ran one of his jam sessions with young, up-and-coming, cutting edge local musicians. Anything could happen – and frequently did, as these outstanding performances, recorded on two consecutive Monday nights, on April 21 and 28 1958, show. Here Lee Morgan, not yet 20, gives notice of his exceptional talent, his trumpet clear, biting and full-toned. Trombonist Curtis Fuller, with his unique, French Horn-like sound, shows his flowing conception and great dynamic range. On tenor, Hank Mobley is all ease and authority! And the rhythm section drives them with strength and sensitivity throughout these invigoratingly cohesive blowing sessions by some of the stellar talents of the era.
  • Sonny Stitt: Burnin' (FSR 536). Jan. 09. Recorded in Chicago in 1958 and showing Stitt both on alto and tenor saxes. Barry Harris is at the piano
  • Toots Thielemans: The Amazing Sound of Toots Thielemans. FSR 526. August 08. Reissue of two albums recorded between 1955 and 1958: "The Amazing Jean "Toots" Thielemans" and "Time Out For Toots". They feature a plethora of great jazz musicians like Hank Jones, Ray Bryant, Zoot Sims, Urbie Green, Al Cohn, Oscar Pettiford and more yet.
  • Lena Horne: Sings Your Requests & Like Latin. FSR 525. August 08. Recorded in Hollywood in 1963 and with arrangements by Marty Paich, Bob Florence & Shorty Rogers
  • Paul Horn: Plenty Of Horn. FSR 523. August 08. Hollywood, 1957-1958. Exceptional musicianship, fluidness, sensitivity and a thoughtful approach made these, Paul Horn’s first recordings as a leader, a showcase of the range and the technical prowess of his playing.
  • Chico Hamilton Quintet 1958-1959: Complete Studio Sessions. FSR 522. August 08. Double CD featuring among other Eric Dolphy and a 15-piece string orchestra. Recorded in 1958-1959 in Hollywood
  • The Music of Fred Katz. FSR 521. August 08. Fred Katz was a concert cellist who found recognition through Chico Hamilton's quintet (featured here), and full-blown, open-minded freedom from his jazz transfusion. Part of this double CD is the music of the film "Sweet Smell of Success" from 1957.
  • The Charlie Mariano / Jerry Dodgion Sextet: The Vamp’s Blues. FSR 520. August 08. Hollywood session from 1957 with drummer Shelly Manne, vibist Vic Feldman, pianist Jimmy Rowles and bass player Monty Budwig
  • Toshiko Akiyoshi & Her International Jazz Sextet: United Notions. FSR1636. June 08. Long time out of print, this bop date from 1958, originally issued on the Metrojazz label, is not the first date as a leader by Toshiko Akiyoshi, but it is a gem worth acquiring. The pianist is joined in New York by an all-star group that includes either cornetist Nat Adderley or trumpetist Doc Severinsen, clarinetist/alto saxophonist Rolf Kühn, flutist/tenor & baritone saxophonist Bobby Jaspar, guitarist Rene Thomas, bassist John Drew, and drummer Bert Dahlander.
  • Joe Jones: The Joe Jones Special. FSR1635. June 08. New York City, 1955. This was the drummer's first album as a leader. On 4 of the album's 7 tracks he fronted a septet with Nat Pierce on piano. One hornman especially excels here: tenor saxophonist Lucky Thompson. On two tracks, the special guest star is no one else than Count Basie!
  • Gerry Mulligan / Paul Desmond Quartet: Blues In Time. FSR 519. June 08. Hollywood 1957. Despite a couple of planned unison lines, arrangement was kept to a minimum. And, as befits such a spectacularly happy union, it produced spontaneous creative combustion of the first order, full of excitement and felicitous surprises.
  • Stan Getz Meets Gerry Mulligan (FSR518). June 08. Directed by Ernie Wilkins, this album from 1957 is a reissue of the album originally titled "Getz Meets Mulligan In Hi-Fi"
  • Top Brass And Trumpets All Out (FSR517). June 08. Directed by Ernie Wilkins, this album is a recap of two old Savoy recordings ("Top Brass" & Trumpets All Out") from 1956. Savoy presented 5 trumpetists (Ernie Royal, Idrees Sulieman, Joe Wilder, Ray Copeland, and Donald Byrd) blowing score and solo in various Ernie Wilkins settings, flawlessly backed by the famous trio made up by Hank Jones, Wendell Marshall, and Kenny Clarke. The success of the first date allowed the producer to do another try, this time with 5 new trumpetists (Art Farmer, Emmett Berry, Charlie Shavers, and Harold Baker) and a rhythm section with two changes: pianist Don Abney, and drummer Bobby Donaldson.
  • The Billy Bauer Quartets: Let’s Have A Session. FSR516. May 08. Bauer did only two recording dates as a leader, both quartet sessions, compiled in this CD (one is bearing the title, the other was originally known as "plectrist"). In them he managed at all times to extract the greatest tenderness from his instrument. Playing with soul, swinging subtly, straight ahead or lightly as the need arose, he accomplished the rare and difficult feat of combining good jazz with accessibility.
  • The Paul Bley Quartet: Solemn Meditation. FSR515. May 08. Featuring vibraphonist Dave Pike and a very young Charlie Haden on bass, this quartet placed a premium on originality, evident not only in the material chosen, which emphasised original composition, but also in exploring new methods of improvisation. And in both areas they displayed an unyielding commitment to a basically swinging conception that allowed them to gel and breathe. Recorded in Hollywood in 1956 & 1957.
  • The Original Chico Hamilton Quintet: Complete Studio Recordings. FSR512. May 08. With Chico on drums, Buddy Collette on flute, clarinet and saxes, Fred Katz on cello, Jim Hall on guitar and Carson Smith on bass, the quintet presented an innovative sound. Never did they overpower or use high decibels as a substitute for inventiveness. In a little more than a year on the road Chico’s quintet established itself as one of the best-drawing small jazz units in the field. Complete Studio Sessions 1956-1957 (FSR513) present the new quintet, one that maintained the high standard set by the original formation, reedman Paul Horn and guitarist John Pisano replacing Buddy Collette and Jim Hall.
  • The Herb Geller Quartet: Birdland Stomp. FSR5046. May 08. The well-balanced selection of tunes chosen for this, Geller's first album as leader for some time, is a first-class example of his all-round abilities as arranger, soloist and leader. This studio set was originally recorded in Barcelona in 1990, featuring pianist Kenny Drew, bass player Niels Henning Ørsted Pedersen and drummer Mark Taylor
  • Milt Buckner: Rockin' With Milt. FSR511. May 08. These two CDs assemble for the first time all the tracks Milt Buckner recorded under his own name and released with Capitol between 1955 and 1957. He plays essentialy Hammond organ with some overdubbed piano
  • Yussef Lateef: Complete 1957 Sessions with Hugh Lawson. FSR492. April 08. 4CD boxset with 32p. booklet. 24-bit remastered. Lateef plays here tenor and flute with a compelling directness and overpowering honesty, surrounded by a nucleus of Detroiters like Curtis Fuller, Ernie Farrow, Louis Hayes, Oliver Jackson, Wilbur Harden and, especially, Hugh Lawson, whose rolling, two-handed piano is as exciting in solo as it is in his intelligent comping.
  • Sun Ra and His Arkestra: New Horizons. FSR495. Feb. 08. Chicago pianist Sun Ra emerged as a leader on the jazz scene early in 1956, when he assembled a group of neo-boppers that contributed to the original and exciting jazz sound offered by his new Sun Ra Arkestra, a medium-sized group that swung like a giant locomotive, an effect primarily due to an interesting use of two basses playing simultaneously. They featured the power of big band ensemble along with the excitement of combo blowing by fine soloists, among them the driving saxes of John Gilmore & Pat Patrick, trombonist Julian Priester and the well-directed trumpet of Art Hoyle. Rediscover the first Arkestra with this digipack edition of an album previously known as "Jazz By Sun Ra"
  • Helen Merrill: Dream Of You. FSR489. Feb. 08. This new digipack CD gathers actually not only "Dream Of You", an album made in 1956-57 in New York with the excelling arranger skills of Gil Evans but also "At Midnight", recorded six monthes after and featuring another arranger: Hal Mooney
  • Cecil Taylor Trio & Quartet: Jazz Advance. FSR485. Feb. 08. Recorded in Boston 1956 (#1-7) and at Newport Jazz Festival 1957 (#8-10), the trio included bass player Buell Neidlinger and drummer Dennis Charles . With the addition of Steve Lacy on sopran sax, the trio becomes a quartet and Lacy — who made a stylistic leap in joining Taylor’s quartet in their embrace of free jazz — is heard here also blowing a new sound through the horn. His soprano had the virility of a tenor and the maneuverability of an alto!
  • Al Cohn: And His "Charlie’s Tavern" Ensemble. FSR484. Feb. 08. Two Lps on 1 CD: East Coast - West Coast Scene + Mr. Music. The time is 1954, the place New York City. Besides Cohn, there is a host of great arrangers, from John Carisi to Manny Albam and Ralph Burns. Stellar line-up as well with Joe Newman (tp), Billy Byers, Eddie Bert, Frank Rehak (tb), Hal McKusick, Gene Quill (as), Al Cohn (ts), Sol Schlinger (bars), Sanford Gold (p), Billy Bauer, Jimmy Raney (g), Milt Hinton, Buddy Jones (b), Osie Johnson (d)
  • Hank Jones: Piano Solo. FSR483. Feb.08. Jones is a complete jazz pianist in that he can be his own rhythm section if he has to. Underneath the flowing gentleness of his lines is a firm, two-handed beat that sometimes distils stride traces of his early influences—Waller, Tatum, Wilson, and Nat King Cole. And because of the intelligence and emotional acumen of his musicianship, he can make even the venerable standards included here sound freshly minted and personal again.
  • Cecil Payne & Duke Jordan: 1956-1962 Sessions featuring Kenny Dorham & Johnny Coles. FSR481. Feb. 08. This CD is the gathering on one CD of two LPs: Patterns of Jazz (1956) and "East And West of Jazz" (1962). It contains some of the most successful encounters recorded in the early years of the two musicians' relationship. On the 1962 session, the muted work and warm sound of another trumpeter - Johnny Coles - is in evidence. In the rhythm section, Wendell Marshall on bass and drummer Walter Bolden tie the time down with taste and complete assurance.
  • Hank Jones: The Trio. FSR480. Feb.08. Recorded in Hackensack, New Jersey, in 1955. This features bassist Wendell Marshall and the always swinging drummer Kenny Clarke plus Jerome Richardson on flute and tenor sax.
  • Maynard Ferguson: And His Birdland Dream Band Orchestra. FSR 470. October 07. Recorded at the Webster Hall, New York City, 1956, this was one of the most exciting bands Maynard Ferguson ever led. The charts, especially commissioned by Ferguson, came from some of the finest writers in contemporary jazz, including Bill Holman, Jimmy Giuffre, Marty Paich, Manny Albam, Ernie Wilkins and Johnny Mandel.
  • Frank Wess: Wess Point. FSR 469. October 07. Recorded in New York in 1954, this compilation collects Frank Wess‚ complete sessions for Commodore, his first as a leader. It features great names like Charles Mingus, Hank & Thad Jones, Kenny Clarke, Oscar Pettiford, among others
  • Sonny Stitt Quartet: Don’t Call Me Bird! FSR 467. October 07. Cushioned by a solidly swinging West Coast rhythm section led by the sensitive piano of Lou Levy, completed by Mel Lewis on drums and Leroy Vinnegar on bass. Stitt is a powerful, melodic, superlatively thoughtful and intense performer. He is here at the top of his form, playing with slashing authority and a piledriver beat.
  • Rolf Ericson: And His American Allstars. FSR 464. August 07. In the spring of 1956, Swedish trumpeter Rolf Ericson, who, except for a Swedish sojourn 1950-1952, had been working in the United States since 1947, returned to tour his homeland with a small group of prominent jazzmen, to play the Scandinavian national parks circuit through the end of August. This had a profound impact on the development of Swedish jazz. Among the American players are pianist Duke Jordan, drummer Art Taylor, bassist Tommy Potter and a few more; noteworthy is the presence of the Swedish cult figure, baritone saxophonist Lars Gullin, who joined the combo towards the end.
  • Dave McKenna: Blues Up. FSR 463. August 07. Piano solo debut album from 1955, completed with another solo album he cut almost eight years later for the label Realm.
  • Maynard Ferguson: Boy with lots of... BRASS. FSR 462. August 07. Recorded in New York City, 1957. Arrangements by Willie Maiden, Al Cohn, Ernie Wilkins and Bill Holman.
  • Cat Anderson and His Orchestra: Cat’s In The Alley. FSR 460. August 07. This is a gathering of two albums on one CD: "Cat On A Hot Tin Horn", his first LP as a leader, handsomely displaying Cat’s upper-register along with some brash, bluesy trumpet work and a glimpse of his lyrical qualities; for the second LP included in this CD set, entitled Ellingtonia, Cat assembled some of the finest Ellington musicians ( Ernie Royal, Ray Copeland, Ray Nance, Sam Woodyard and more). The tunes chosen were in the soft swing vein and done essentially as a tribute to Duke Ellington.
  • Chet Baker & Crew: At The Forum Theatre (Complete Recordings). FSR 457 Double CD Digipack + Booklet. August 07. These two CDs contain, for the first time in one set, all the recordings he made with his quintet — the “crew” — under Dick Bock’s direction at the Los Angeles Forum Theatre in July 1956. On these sessions Chet plays throughout with even greater warmth, virility and maturity of conception than on previous recordings, but with the lyricism that was his forte intact.
  • Bill Evans: The Sideman Years. FSR 456 Deluxe Digipack. August 07. This CD presents Evans work from 1956 in the quartet of the acclaimed clarinetist Tony Scott, originally released on RCA-Victor as "The Touch of Tony Scott", his '55 collaboration with the Dick Garcia Quartet (originally released on Dawn under the title "A Message From Garcia"), the album "Idol of the Flies", recorded on Betlehem in NYC in 57 by the Jimmy Knepper Quintet (featuring drummer Dannie Richmond) and finally the album released in late summer 57 by the Joe Puma Quartet, featuring drummer Paul Motian and bassist Oscar Pettiford. This album was originally released on the Jubilee US label under the title "Joe Puma Trio & Quartet". A nice addition for Evans completists!
  • Chet Baker & Art Pepper Sextet: Complete Playboys Sessions 1956. FSR 428. Recorded in Los Angeles, Forum Theatre, July 26 & 28, 1956 + Radio Recorders, November 20 & 21, 1956. Chet and Art were at their creative best back then, and these two sextet sessions are the only recorded examples of both jazzmen playing together in the front line of a small group.
  • FSR-CD 353 Chet Baker & Stan Getz Quartet: Live at The Haig 1953. With Carson Smith (bass) and Larry Bunker (drums). Recorded at The Haig Club, Hollywood, June 16, 1953
  • Eddie Bert Quartet & Quintet: Crosstown. FSR 427. 2CD with Eddie Bert (tb), Jr. Monterose (ts), Joe Puma (g), Hank Jones (p), Wendell Marshall or Clyde Lombardi (b), and Kenny Clarke (d)
  • Eddie Bert Quintet: Kaleidoscope. FSRCD 404. US sessions recorded between 1953 and 1959 by this trombone player and arranger who started playing in Benny Goodman's boppers from November 1948 to September 1949. Features a rarely heard performance by drummer Joe Morello.
  • FSR-CD 359 Bird & Chet: Live at the Trade Winds 1952. Recorded live at The Trade Winds Club in Inglewood, California, on June 16, 1952. With Sonny Criss (as), Al Haig, Russ Freeman (p), Harry Babasin (b) & Lawrence Marable (d).
  • Paul Bley: Early Trios. FSRCD386. Recorded in New York City, 1953-1954. He made these first recordings under his own name in the bebop idiom with such great artists as Charles Mingus, Art Blakey, Percy Heath, Peter Ind or Al Levitt
  • Bob Brookmeyer Septet and Octet: Kansas City Sounds. FSR 430. Recorded in New York City, Olmstead Sound Studios 1958 + Nola Studios 1958. On these two great 1958 sessions, Brookmeyer and friends revisit some old, swinging Kansas City sounds along with pleasant new tunes. Over-all, there is a wonderful rhythm and feeling replete with good solos that make for very rewarding listening. Personnel: Bob Brookmeyer (vltb), Harry Edison (tp), Paul Quinichette, Zoot Sims (ts), Al Cohn (ts, bars), Nat Pierce, Hank Jones (p), Jim Hall, Freddie Green (g), Addison Farmer, Eddie Jones (b), Osie Johnson, Charlie Persip (d), Clarence “Big” Miller (vcl)
  • FSR-CD 350 Roy Brooks: Beat. With Roy Brooks (d) with Blue Mitchell (tp), George Bohanon (tb), Junior Cook (ts), Hugh Lawson (p) and Eugene Taylor (b). Recorded in Detroit, 1963
  • Clifford Brown: Brownie Live! - Live At Basin Street And In Concert At Carnegie Hall. FSRCD389. Because relatively few of the recordings he made were live performances, we are indeed fortunate to see this CD, which includes performances from two 1956 broadcasts from the Old Basin Street club in New York City, and two tracks from a Carnegie Hall concert the previous year.
  • Dave Brubeck: At Storyville 1954. FSRCD 414. With Paul Desmond and two different rhythm sections.
  • Dave Brubeck Quartet: At Wilshire Ebell: The Historic 1953 Los Angeles Concert. FSR426. Dave Brubeck was a pioneer in the presentation of intimate concerts in colleges and universities and —in the better— small concert halls. The show at the Wilshire Ebell theatre, in Los Angeles, was one of the latter. The quartet features Paul Desmond and the rhythm section of Ron Crotty (b) + Lloyd Davis (dms)
  • Donald Byrd Quartet feat. Bobby Jaspar: Au Chat Qui Pêche. FSRCD388. Paris, October 29, 1958. Donald Byrd (tp), Walter Davis Jr. (p), Doug Watkins (b), Art Taylor (d), Bobby Jaspar (ts, fl)
  • Eddie Chamblee: Chamblee Special. FSRCD394. This CD brings together two excellent sessions that Chamblee made in Chicago in 1957 and 1958, fronting a septet of outstanding category that had previously served as a very efficient backing group on some of the recordings made by his wife Dinah Washington. Among other musicians present here, we'll find trumpetists Johnny Coles & Joe Newman, trombonist Julian Priester and drummer Charlie Persip.
  • Teddy Charles: Adventures in California. FSRCD 413. The fortunate combination of Charles’ experience with the talents of Shorty Rogers, Shelly Manne, and Curtis Counce produced very effective, swinging jazz within a strikingly different medium.
  • Tenorman James Clay: The Kid From Dallas. FSR 437. Digipack. Recorded in Los Angeles, 1956-1957. This CD contains all James Clay studio performances on tenor sax while the young kid from Dallas was living in Los Angeles in the mid 50's. The personal include some great names: Bobby Timmons, Sonny Clark, Lorraine Geller (p), Jimmy Bond, Red Mitchell (b), Peter Littman, Lawrence Marable, Frank Capp, Billy Higgins (d)
  • FSR-CD 379 Jack Costanzo and His Orchestra. Plays Jazz, Afro & Latin. Recorded: Hollywood, December 1954 + June 8 and July 3, 1956
  • Walt Dickerson: Vibes In Motion. FSRCD 407. For the first time ever on CD and presented in Digipack. Contains the complete albums: Jazz Impressions: Lawrence of Arabia (Dauntless, 1963) and Plays Unity (Audio Fidelity, 1964). Features Walt Dickerson (vb), Walter Davis Jr., Austin Crowe (p), George Tucker, Henry Grimes (b), Edgar Bateman, Andrew Cyrille (dms).
  • Eric Dolphy: Iron Man (FSRCD-1628) + Conversations (FSRCD-1627). These two CDs document the most innovative studio work in Eric Dolphy's musical career (1963). Both appear for the first time with their original LP covers and digitally re-mastered from the original stereo tapes.
  • FSR-CD 352 Kenny Dorham: The Arrival of Kenny Dorham. With Charlie Davis (baritone sax), Tommy Flanagan (piano), Edward “Butch” Warren (bass) and Arnold “Buddy” Enlow (drums)
  • Kenny Drew Trio: Complete Recordings 1953-1954. FSRCD416. Contains the two albums: New Faces / New Sounds (Blue Note) and "The Ideation of Kenny Drew" (Norgran Records). Feat: Kenny Drew (p), Curley Russell or Eugene Wright (b), Art Blakey or Charles Wright or Lawrence Marable (dms).
  • Duke Ellington & His Orchestra: The Duke's D.J. Special. FSRCD 410. N.Y. 1959.
  • Mercer Ellington And His Orchestra: Stepping Into Swing Society. FSR 531. Oct. 08. Recorded in New York in 1958 and 1959, this CD gathers the two albums "Stepping Into Swing Society" and "Colors in Rhythm". The playing is by nearly all of Duke’s then-current stalwart sidemen, including Johnny Hodges, Clark Terry and Harry Carney, but also a few of his legendary ex band members, such as saxophonist Ben Webster
  • Bill Evans Trio: The Legendary Bill Evans Trio - The 1960 Birdland Sessions. FSRCD390. Recorded Live at Birdland Club, New York City, March 12 & 19 and April 30, 1960. The legendary recordings on this CD precede the same trio's live performances at the Village Vanguard in 1961 by more than a year. Incomplete versions of these tracks have been previously issued on LP but appear here on CD in their entirety.
  • Maynard Ferguson Orchestra & Octet: Band ain’t Draggin’ – 1950-1954. FSRCD2204. The music on these sides is the product of different sessions that represent, between them, a veritable Blue Book of West Coast jazz. At the head of each ensemble, enjoying himself to the full, is trumpeter extraordinary Maynard Ferguson. Most of the men heard in this CD were old friends, either colleagues from the Stan Kenton band or Californians with whom he had worked on and off for several years.
  • Maynard Ferguson: Hollywood Jam Sessions. FSR-CD 383. Memorable jam sessions from 1954.
  • FSR-CD 346 Maynard Ferguson and His Swingin’ Dream Band Orchestra: Live at Peacock Lane Hollywood 1956-1957. Featuring: Maynard Ferguson (tp) with Ed Leddy, Joe Burnett, Tom Slaney (tp), Bob Fitzpatrick, Bob Burgess (tb), Herb Geller (as), Richie Kamuca, Nino Tempo (ts), Willie Maiden (bars), Paul Moer (p), Red Kelly (b), Mel Lewis (d) Recorded live at Peacock Lane Jazz Room, Hollywood, December 1956 and January 6, 1957.
  • The Gellers: Herb & Lorraine Geller's Complete Recordings 1954-1955. FSRCD 412. These are the only recordings Herb did with Lorraine. They formed an exceptional tandem and their playing carried a distinct sound, a harmonic quality that was neither his or hers.
  • FSR-CD 367 Stan Getz Quintet: Birdland Sessions 1952. With Jimmy Raney (g), Horace Silver, Duke Jordan (p), Charlie Mingus, Nelson Boyd, Gene Ramey (b) and Connie Kay, Phil Brown (d).
  • Terry Gibbs Quartet FSR 450. July 07. These mid 50's recordings of the Terry Gibbs Quartet reveal, among other virtues, the extraordinary degree of sympathy between Terry and his partner, Miss Terry Pollard, the wonderful pianist of his group. The mental picture of a typical Gibbs performance involves flying mallets, racing thoughts and impulsive improvisation at their most dazzling. There is an essential percussive feel in what most of his fans have come to regard as a typical Gibbs performance; yet there are many occasions when he also offers a discreet and tasteful approach toward slow ballad numbers.
  • FSR-CD 354 The Jimmy Giuffre 3:Hollywood & Newport 1957-1958. Live at Hollywood’s Stars of Jazz KABC TV Show 1957-1958 with: Jimmy Giuffre (clarinet, tenor sax, baritone sax), Jim Hall (guitar), Bob Brookmeyer (vtb) and Ralph Pena (bass) and Live at The Newport Jazz Festival 1958 with: Jimmy Giuffre (clarinet, tenor sax, baritone sax), Bob Brookmeyer (vtb, piano) and Jim Hall (guitar).
  • FSR-CD 380 Joe Gordon: Early Sessions. Featuring Joe Gordon (tp) with Gigi Gryce (as), Charlie Rouse (ts), Junior Mance, Walter Bishop (p), Jimmy Schenck, Bernie Griggs (b), Art Blakey (d) and Sabu Martínez (cg). Recorded: New York City 1954
  • FSR-CD370 Joe Gordon & Scott LaFaro: West Coast Days. Recorded at the Lighthouse, July 31, 1960.
  • Norman Granz Presents Jazz At The Philharmonic - Hamburg, Germany, February 29, 1956. FSRCD441 2CD Boxset. This is the only unreleased and undocumented Jazz At The Philharmonic show to see the light of day in recent years. What makes this extraordinary discovery so special is the consistently high level of invention, musicality, inspiration, excitement, sense of swing, and the relaxed spirit of happiness that pervades virtually every moment of this Hamburg concert that took place during JATP’s fifth annual tour of Europe. There is no arguing that Norman Granz made, with the JATP concerts, his most spectacular contribution to the history of jazz. This 2CD-set of previously unissued live recordings, also includes a 16-page booklet plus a reproduction of the original German program that was handed during JATP's 1956 European tour. CD1 presents an all-star line-up featuring: Dizzy Gillespie, Roy Eldridge (tp), Flip Phillips, Illinois Jacquet (ts), Oscar Peterson (p), Herb Ellis (g), Ray Brown (b), and Gene Krupa (d). CD2 includes the Oscar Peterson trio with Herb Ellis and Ray Brown and an Ella Fitzgerald set with the same trio + drummer Gene Krupa.
  • Urbie Green: Septet & Octet. FSR 451. July 07. On these early recordings from 53 to 55, Urbie shows every indication that he was well on his way up the musical stairway to stardom. Personnel: Ruby Braff (tp), Doug Mettome (tp, barh, mellp), Urbie Green (tb), John Murtaugh (ts), Al Cohn (cl, ts, bcl), Med Flory (as), Frank Wess (fl, ts), Danny Bank (fl, cl, bars), Sam Staff (bars), Freddie Greene (g), Jimmy Lyon, Sir Charles Thompson (p), Jimmy Lyon (p, cel), Dante Martucci, Aaron Bell, Oscar Pettiford (b), Jimmy Campbell, Bobby Donaldson, Osie Johnson (d)
  • Urbie Green Quintet & Big Band : All About Urbie Green. FSR 436. This CD presents Urbie Green, one of the most versatile of all top-ranking trombonists in two facets. On the first quintet recordings we hear him playing relaxed, modern mainstream jazz with strong roots in the blues. Urbie’s role on the remaining tracks is that of the leader of a big band. Johnny Carisi is here his chief arranger and unofficial musical director
  • Gigi Gryce Quartet: Gigi Gryce. Freshsound FSR1637. Oct. 08. Until this album from 1958, Gryce was only known for his alto playing but here for the first time, he recorded on flute, clarinet, tenor and baritone sax - in addition to alto -, playing several of these instruments in the same tune through multiple tracking. Gryce also provided his group with provocative arrangements of some well known jazz standards and some originals. The rhythm section offers strong support, with pianist Hank Jones , bassist Milt Hinton contributing
  • FSR 1621 Al Haig Trio: Al Haig Today! The Great Piano of a Piano Great. With Al Haig (p) with Ed DeHaas (b) and Jim Kappes (d). Recorded in New York City, 1965.
  • Al Haig Trio: 03/13/54 One-Day Session Vogue & Esoteric Recordings. FSR 432. This long one-day session was originally produced by Henri Renaud, the French jazz pianist, when he visited New York in the very early part of 1954. Al’s melodic improvisations get firm, unobtrusive support from drummer Lee Abrams and bassist Bill Crow.
  • Hersh Hamel: Hersh Hamel’s Songbook featuring Art Pepper. FSRCD395. Recorded in Hollywood, summer 1975. Hersh formed this group in 1974 as an experimental group of jazz improvisation. Art Pepper at this point was interested in the different approaches of music as, at the time, the rock and soul influences were marked and strong outside jazz. This recording documents a particular time in the development of Pepper and Hersh, perhaps one in which Pepper has not been heard before. Hamel plays here electric bass and there are also vocals, keyboards and synthesizer - played by Pete Robinson.
  • FSR 351 Jimmy Hamilton and His Orchestra: Swing Low, Sweet Clarinet.With Jimmy Hamilton (cl) with John Anderson (tp) Paul Gonsalves (ts), Mitchell Wood, Britt Woodman, Dave Wells (bsr horns), Jimmy Rowles (p), Aaron Bell (b), Sam Woodyard (d). Recorded in Los Angeles, 1960.
  • Lionel Hampton and His All-Stars: Complete Jazztone Recordings. FSR446 (2CD). Hampton is surrounded here by some established jazz masters such as tenor saxophonist Lucky Thompson, bassist Oscar Pettiford, trombonist Jimmy Cleveland, drummer Gus Johnson, and by two then-newcomers to the scene: pianist Oscar Dennard and trumpeter Ray Copeland. The music is full of rhythmic and blowing excitement thanks to the talents of the jazzmen involved, and comes close to stomping in several places.
  • FSR 349 Slide Hampton Octet: Two Sides of Slide Hampton. Arranged and Conducted by Slide Hampton. With Freddie Hubbard, Booker Little, Burt Collins (tp) Slide Hampton (tb, trombonium, p), Bernard McKinney (bar horn), George Coleman (ts, cl), Jay Cameron (bars, bcl) George Tucker (b), Pete LaRocca, Kenny Dennis, Charlie Persip (d). Recorded in New York City, 1959.
  • FSR-CD369 Hampton Hawes: Trio and Quartet 1951-1956. Live & studio sessions recorded at “The Haig” club, Hollywood, 22/09/51, 09/09/52 - “Surf Club”, 12/02/52 & 23/12/52 - Hollywood: Spring + 10/09/52 + December 1952. Hollywood, May 2, 1955. “Embers” Club, New York, May 15, 1956.
  • FSR 347 Coleman Hawkins and His All-Stars: The Complete Jazztone Recordings 1954. With Coleman Hawkins (ts) , Billy Taylor (p), Milt Hinton (b), Jo Jones (d) plus Emmett Berry (tp), Eddie Bert (tb. Recorded in New York, 1954.
  • FSR 1620 Tubby Hayes / Ronnie Scott: The Couriers of Jazz. England¹s greatest combo. With Tubby Hayes, Ronnie Scott (ts), Terry Shannon (p), Jeff Clyne (b), Bil Eyden (d. Recorded in London, 1958.
  • Elmo Hope Trio: Plays His Own Compositions. FSR-CD 411. April 06. NY 1961 with Paul Chambers or Edward Warren on bass, Philly Joe Jones or Granville Hogan on drums.
  • Bobby Jaspar Quartet & Quintet: Clarinescapade. FSR 449. May 2007. These recordings were made on three dates during the fall of 1956. The music is varied in theme and mood, and Jaspar, as well as performing on tenor sax, clarinet and flute, displays a musical expression entirely his own, playing with a great deal of warmth and imagination. All the other jazzmen participating in these sessions offer him stimulating and intelligent support, with Tommy Flanagan’s usual imaginative strength and the impressive musical inventiveness and skills of Elvin Jones and Eddie Costa among the most valuable elements of the consistently cohesive playing evident here.
  • FSR-CD 375 & 376 Jazz In Mexico: The Legendary 1954 Sessions. Volume 1 and 2. Collective Personnel: César Molina (tp), Pepe Solis (frh), Héctor Hallal “El Árabe” (as, ts), Tomás Rodríguez “La Negrita” (ts), Román López (bars), Mario Patrón, Pablo Jaimes (p), Victor Ruiz Pasos (b), Tino Contreras (dms).
  • FSR-CD371Hank Jones: The New York Rhythm Section. New York City, 1956. With special guest Jimmy Cleveland on trombone.
  • FSRCD-364 Steve Lacy: Early Years 1954 – 1956. Complete studio recordings (2CD).
  • FSR-CD 1631 Pete La Roca: Turkish Women At The Bath. With John Gilmore (ts), Chick Corea (p) and Walter Booker (b). Recorded: New York, May 25, 1967 (Alan Douglas sessions).
  • FSR 348 Yusef Lateef: Lost in sound. With Yusef Lateef (ts), Vincent Pitts (tp) John Hormon (p), Ray McKinny (b) George Scott, Cliff Jarvis (d. Recorded in New York City, 1961.
  • Henry Mancini & His Orchestra & Chorus: Something for Audrey and Other Lovely Movie Sounds. All these pieces belong to movies from the Sixties, his most prolific years and the ones in which Mancini won the most awards of his brilliant career.
  • Teo Macero & Wally Cirillo Jazz Composers Workshop: Explorations. FSRCD 409. April 06. New York City, 1953. Hackensack, N.J., 1955 and featuring among others bassist Charles Mingus, drummer Kenny Clarke. When these pioneering efforts in the evolution of modern music were released, most critics considered them too complex; they were defined as controversial, abstract and absurdly avant-garde. Now, fifty years later, these early Jazz Composers Workshop recordings have become not only accessible, but widely accepted; they have contributed to open up all kind of musical doors.
  • Charlie Mariano: Plays Alto and Tenor. FSRCD 396. On these 1955 quartet sessions, recorded on July 11, 1955, whether on alto or tenor saxophone, we hear Charlie Mariano play some of the strongest and most impressive sides he had recorded until then. He was backed by a solid rhythm section, featuring the stabbing and leanly imaginative pianist John Williams, the striding beat of Max Bennett and the always tasteful drumming of Mel Lewis
  • FSR-CD 5042 Jon Mayer Trio: Strictly Confidential. Features bassist Chuck Israels and drummer Arnie Wise alongside leader and pianist Jon Mayer. Recorded in Hollywood, California on February 6, 2003, 45 years after their first *come together* in the fall of 1959 when they were engaged to perform in Madrid and in Barcelona.
  • Jackie McLean: Presenting ... Jackie McLean. FSRCD 1634. This digipack Deluxe Edition features the original cover art. Altoist Jackie McLean made his recording debut as a leader in 1955 with this album when he was 24. He is here in full command of his musical gifts and plays with a lot of guts, drive, heated emotion, and a good beat. On these early days Jackie’s concept and playing still reflected a strong Bird-influence, but he was not far from finding his own style and voice. This set is certainly worth hearing, and the presence of trumpeter Donald Byrd, another young lion, is definitely a plus. Listening to these sides we can understand why Byrd and McLean later became major jazz voices. Completing the line-up are pianist Mal Waldron, bassist Doug Watkins and the surely lesser known drummer Ronald Tucker
  • Charles Mingus: Jazz Workshop 1957-1958 East Coasting & A Modern Jazz Symposium of Music and Poetry (FSR 535). Jan. 09. Reissue of two early albums on a double CD
  • Charles Mingus and his Jazz Composers Workshop: The Complete Savoy and Period Master Takes (Digipack Limited Edition). FSRCD391. Recorded In New Jersey and New York City, 1954. These 1954 recordings represent the grass roots from where all the innovative forms and expressions of ‘tomorrow’s’ jazz conceived by Mingus really began. 12 Tracks: Purple Heart / Gregarian Chant / Eulogy for Rudy Williams / Tea for Two / Getting Together / What is This Thing Called Love? / Stormy Weather / Minor Intrusion / Abstractions / Thrice Upon a Theme / Four Hands / The Spur of the Moments - Echonitus
  • Tete Montoliu Trio: A Tot Jazz!. FSR448. May 2007. Originally released on two albums and taken from 1965 sessions in Barcelona with bassist Eric Peter and drummer Billy Brooks, the music is now gathered on one CD!
  • FSR-CD 357 Lee Morgan: Unforgettable Lee! Live at Birdland featured with Art Blakey¹s Jazz Messengers. Lee Morgan (tp) with Wayne Shorter (ts), Bobby Timmons, Walter Davis Jr. (p), Jymie Merrit (b) and Art Blakey (d). Recorded Live at Birdland Club, New York City, 1960.
  • Gerry Mulligan Sextet: The San Diego Concert 1954 (The Beginning!) and the Complete Studio Sessions 1955-1956. FSRCD417. This 3-CD set features the complete recordings by one of the most exciting ensembles Gerry Mulligan ever led; including a 16-page booklet with photos and liner notes by Alun Morgan especially written for this project.
  • FSR-CD 344 The Pepper-Knepper Quintet. Pepper Adams (bars), Jimmy Knepper (tb) with Wynton Kelly (p, organ), Doug Watkins (b) and Elvin Jones (d). Recorded in New York City, March 25, 1958.
  • Art Pepper: The Art of Pepper. FSRCD378. This CD presents the complete master takes from the legendary 1957 "Omega Sessions". The first twelve tracks were originally marketed on two 7 1/2 i.p.s. reel-to-reel stereophonic tapes by the Omegatape label, between 1957 and 1958. Since then, these recordings have been reissued on both LP and CD on different labels, but appear here for the first time in their entirety with two previously unreleased tracks.
  • FSR-CD 358 Art Pepper Quintet: Live at Donte’s 1968. This 2CD is maybe the only document available of Art Pepper in this period, away from the Buddy Rich band.
  • Oscar Pettiford: Nonet & Octet. FSR 453. July 07. This tasteful album features a highly seasoned mixture of skilled associates. The presence of Ellington sidemen all point to Duke’s influence that pervades the nonet date on this CD, highlighting top-rate arrangements by Quincy Jones and Gigi Gryce. Both solo and ensemble work throughout are sharply exciting. On the octet session, the varied program consists of originals arranged by Ernie Wilkins, Tommy Talbert, Tom Whaley, and Gryce again. Maintaining an all-important vigor in execution, Oscar Pettiford and his groups add life and depth to their arrangers’ ideas with their individual and collective unity of feeling.
  • Oscar Pettiford Quartet, Quintet & Sextet: In A Cello Mood. FSR 452. July 07. Recorded in NYC in the period 1952 to 1954. In the early 50's Oscar Pettiford was internationally acclaimed not only as a phenomenal bassist, but also as the first man to have made extensive use of the cello as a jazz solo vehicle. His work on cello with the various small groups he led since 1950 is now a matter of music history.
  • Joe Puma: The Jazz Guitar of Joe Puma - Featuring Bill Evans, Eddie Costa & Don Elliott. FSR 435. Recorded in New York City, 1954-1957. This CD is a swinging, warm set of well-thought out sessions, that manage to retain essential spontaneity meaningfully throughout the solos. Puma’s approach is tasteful, gentle and unpretentious, and his finely-etched, sensitive guitar playing garnered the respect of his fellow musicians and such critical acclaim as the 1957 New Star award for his instrument in the poll conducted by Metronome magazine.
  • Jimmy Raney Quintet: Complete Recordings 1954-1956. FSR 423 (Digipack Deluxe Edition). These recordings established Jimmy Raney (1927-1995) as a leading modern jazz guitarist and introduced two potentially major young jazz talents: trumpeter John Wilson and altoist Phil Woods. The recordings also feature drummer Joe Morello
  • Don Redman and His Orchestra feat. Coleman Hawkins: At The Swing Cats Ball. FSRCD393. The music in this CD is a compilation of two sessions recorded in New York in 1957 (April 1957 + July 22 & 26, 1957). On the first one, you may be surprised to hear Hank Jones on organ (and also on piano of course).
  • FSR-CD 377 Max Roach / Clifford Brown Quintet: The Historic California Concerts 1954. Including previously unedited material. These historic concerts are now issued in their most complete versions for the first time as a digipack special edition. The recordings took place at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium, April 1954 and the Shrine Auditorium, Hollywood, August 30, 1954.
  • Ernie Royal: Accent On Trumpet. FSRCD 403. In the first eight tracks, recorded on November 26, 1955, we can hear him during a session in New York fronting an All-Star Mainstream sextet, featuring Oscar PettifordBilly Taylor as highlighted soloists beside him. This compilation also contains the recordings he made in Paris in 1950 when he was on a European tour with Duke Ellington’s band. The line up included some of the best Ellington sidemen, three famous French musicians - among others bassist Pierre Michelot - and two outstanding American boppers who were then living in Paris: tenorist James Moody and drummer Kenny Clarke. For the first time on CD, and despite his extensive and brilliant career, here are the only recordings Ernie Royal did as leader of a jazz ensemble.
  • Bill Russo: Portrait of an Intellectual Jazzman. FSR 527. Oct. 08. This CD compiles the most important of his early works (between 1951 and 1956), including "The World of Alcina", a ballet score in five dances which Russo defined as "a piece written in terms of my background in jazz".
  • Tony Scott Septet: Fingerpoppin’: Complete Recordings 1954-1955. FSRCD415. The seven piece band assembled for these recordings—two saxes, trumpet, trombone, bass and drums—contributed a solid, haunting backdrop which bids fair to keep the aural arguments permanently in the forefront of the cool music league. The absence of guitar and piano helped configure the very special sound we hear—a solid groundwork over which Tony blows at his impressive best.
  • Zoot Sims: Plays Tenor & 4 Altos. FSR 447 digipack. May 2007. This CD is another wholly swinging and moving recital by Zoot Sims on tenor and alto sax. All the charts feature attractive harmonic patterns and inventive melodic lines by George Handy, who is also part of the rhythm section for both sessions.
  • Zoot Sims: Plays Alto, Tenor and Baritone. FSR 434. The music is taken from 2 distinct albums. On the second album (tracks 9-16), through multiple taping, Zoot blows alto, tenor and baritone saxophones in unison, opening and closing passages, soloing individually on each horn on the body of George Handy’s inventive compositions.
  • FSR-CD 355 Lucky Thompson: Accent On Tenor Sax. With Ernie Royal (trumpet), Jimmy Hamilton (clarinet), Sidney Gross (guitar), Billy Taylor/Earl Knight (piano), Oscar Pettiford (bass) and Osie Johnson (drums). Recorded in New York City in 1954.
  • Lucky Thompson: Lucky Is Back! “Then, So Is Love”. FSR 455. July 07. Recorded in NYC in the mid 60's, this release gathers two albums Thompson did in partnership with the independent label Rivoli. With him are pianist Tommy Flanagan, drummers Walter Perkins & Oliver Jackson, organist Frank Anderson and guitarist Wally Richardson. While at that time most tenorists were aping Coltrane, Lucky was playing Thompson with unceasing invention and drive!
  • Lucky Thompson Meets Oscar Pettiford. FSR 424. Digipack Deluxe Edition. A hard-swinging set from 1956 powered by Lucky's big tone and beautifully built ideas, featuring the strength and driving pulse of Oscar Pettiford's bass.
  • FSR-CD 365Claude Thornhill and His Orchestra: Play the Great Jazz Arrangements of Gil Evans Gerry Mulligan and Ralph Aldridge. Finally a testimony of this arranger’s musical production, a man ahead of its time who remains today one of the biggest influences for many contemporary big band jazz arrangers. Those New York recordings span from 1942 to 1953.
  • Randy Weston Trio & Sextet: From 52nd Street to Africa. FSR 433. Live at the Newport Jazz Festival, July 5, 1958. Live at Both/And, San Francisco, October 1966. Featuring among other trumpetist Ray Copeland
  • The Swingin' Ernie Wilkins Orchestra: The Big New Band of the 60's. FSRCD 398. These recordings were originally produced and released by Everest Records on two stereo LPs, SDBR 1077, entitled "Here Comes The Swingin' Mr. Wilkins", and SDBR 1104, entitled "The Big New Band Of The 60's". Both albums have now been compiled for the first time on this Fresh Sound Records release. Recorded in New York between 1959 and 1960

    • Jazz Connections Series

  • The Jazz Connections label is a new branch of the Blue Moon Records family, conceived to reissue some of the finest recording moments of the exciting jazz scene from the 50s. Both Mainstream Jazz and Modern Jazz schools are represented in this series, which also include Piano Moods, a new line dedicated to the piano in jazz. Here are the first releases:

    + Max Roach: Complete 1958-1959 "Plus Four" Sessions (3-CD Box Set). Featuring Booker Little & George Coleman (JC1010). July 08. This 3-CD edition was originally released in 7 LPs: Max on the Chicago Scene (EmArcy), Max Roach + 4 At Newport (Mercury), Deeds, Not Words (Riverside), Award-Winning Drummer (Stereo Time), The Many Sides of Max (Mercury), Sessions, Live (Calliope), and The Defiant Ones (United Artists), an album recorded under the leadership of Booker Little.
    + Tommy Potter: Hard Funk In Sweden (JC1008). September 07. One of the best-respected bop bass players, Tommy Potter (1918-1988) was well-know as a member of the classic Charlie Parker quintet during the 1947-1950 period. This edition contains the only tracks Tommy Potter recorded as a leader. They were originally issued on various EPs by the Swedish label Metronome, and later reissued on a rare LP (“Hard Funk”) by the American label East-West, a subsidiary of Atlantic Records. Recorded in 1956 during a Sweden two monthes tour by an All-American Bop All-Stars, it presented now reknown Swedish players like among other trumpetist Rolf Ericson or trombonist Ake Persson. This CD also includes the only eight titles recorded on the July 1956 concert that took place during the same tour by trumpeter Ericson, baritone sax Lars Gullin, pianist Freddie Redd, bassist Potter, and drummer Joe Harris.
    + Jackie Mclean & Miles Davis: Complete Studio Sessions. Jazz Connections JC 1006CD. March 07. At the time Miles Davis recorded these three 1951-1955 sessions, the trumpet player had just begun his soon-to-be spectacular career. As part of five milestone Prestige and Blue Note albums, these tracks features some of the most representative young lions of its time, including Sonny Rollins, Milt Jackson, J.J. Johnson, Ray Bryant, Oscar Pettiford, Charles Mingus and Art Blakey among others. This complete collection of studio recordings under the leadership of Davis, is dedicated to the memory of Jackie McLean, a tribute to one of the most misunderstood jazzmen in the history of modern jazz whose cohesive, solid phrasing and distinct, harsh-like sonority would make him into one of the most representative jazzmen of a blues-full hard bop style. Recorded at Rudy Van Gelder Studio in Hackensack, NJ, on August 5, 1955 and in New York, between October 5, 1951 and May 9, 1952.
    + Jackie McLean: Complete 1955-1957 Quartet, Quintet & Sextet Sessions. Jazz Connections JC 1001 6CD Box Set. All the sessions represented here took place in the famous studio that legendary sound engineer Rudy Van Gelder had in Hackensack, New Jersey, appearing in a sequence of eight exciting albums originally cut for the Ad Lib, Prestige, New Jazz, and Jubilee labels. This box set is a comprehensive and chronological collection of the altoist-composer first recordings as a leader, illustrated by a 20-page book let full of historic pictures and detailed sessionography.
  • The label Skye was an eclectic recording company set up in 1968 by Gary McFarland, Cal Tjader and Gabor Szabo as an outlet for their non-major label projects. In the 2 short years it lasted (1968-1970), Skye released twenty amazing jazz, pop and latin albums. The unfortunate demise of the label saw most of the magnificent albums relegated to jazz history and largely forgotten. Here we present the first albums from this wonderful label for you so you too can appreciate the rich diversity that was Skye.

    - Gary Mcfarland & Co.: America the Beautiful. Skye Records SK 1004. Digipack. Composed and Conducted by Gary McFarland. Orchestra Assembled by Jerome Richardson. Recorded in New York, in 1968. This big band has in his ranks a host of well known and praised musicians: Marvin Stamm, Snooky Young, Ernie Royal, Bernie Glow, Richard Williams, Randy Brecker (tp), Garnett Brown (tb), Harvey Phillips (tuba), Ray Alonge, Jim Buffington, Earl Chapin (flh), Jerome Richardson, Romeo Penque, Wally Caine, Danny Bank, Joe Farrell (reeds), Warren Bernhardt (p), Eric Gale (g), Aaron Rosand, Gene Orloff or David Nadien (violins), George Ricci, Harvey Shapiro (cello), Al Brown (viola), Jerry Jemmott, Chuck Rainey, Chuck Rainey (b), Bill Lavorgna, Bernard Purdie (d), Warren Smith (perc).
    - Gary Mcfarland & Co.: Does the Sun Really Shine on the Moon? Skye Records SK 1003. Recorded in New York, in 1968. Gary McFarland (vibes, whistling, vcl, arranger), Marvin Stamm (flh), Jerome Richardson (fl, ss), Warren Bernhardt (org), Sam Brown (g), Chuck Rainey, Richard Davis (b), Donald MacDonald or Grady Tate (d).
    - Gabor Szabo: Bachanal. Skye Records SK 1002 Digipack Edition. Originally recorded in February 1968, this CD version has the same tracks listed in the same order as in the original release (out of print since the early 80s) and with a tasteful digipack sleeve and original artwork. Szabo’s 60s quintet, featuring guitarist Jimmy Stewart, is on top form here with another of his unique collections of both jazz and pop hits. His restrained use of feedback at just the right moments shows Szabo was willing to open up to new sounds yet he keeps a tight grip on his signature sound throughout these eight cuts.
    - Gabor Szabo: Dreams. Skye Records SK 1001 Digipack Edition. The set features a nice selection of originals and pop covers. The warm tones and Eastern influences of “Dreams” makes this one of Gabor Szabo’s best albums.

    From the Fresh Sound Jazz City series!

  • Bob Cooper: Group Activity. FSR2239. Recorded in Hollywood, between 1954 to 1955. With Stu Williamson (tp, vtb), Bob Enevoldsen (vtb, ts, bcl), Bob Cooper (ts), Bud Shank (as, ts, bars), Jimmy Giuffre (cl, ts, basr), John Graas (frh), Howard Roberts (g), Claude Williamson (p), Joe Mondragon, Curtis Counce or Max Bennett (b), and Shelly Manne or Stan Levey (d)
  • Terry Gibbs: Swingin’ with Terry Gibbs’ Orchestra & Quartet. FSR2244. August 07. This CD presents recordings with big band dating from 1956 and 1957, NYC or LA, and Gibbs leading a fine quartet on a tasteful session far more substantial than a simple “blowing date”, taken from the Los Angeles ABC- TV show “Stars of Jazz” in 1958.
  • Jimmy Giuffre: New Forms In Jazz: Complete Capitol Recordings 1954-1955. FSRCD2225. May 06. On these recordings, his first as a leader, Giuffre shows a fine versatility, a communicative emotion and the ability to swing that made him a respected soloist on tenor, baritone and clarinet.
  • Woody Herman: His Octet and His Band: Blues & Swing Groove. FSR2238. Recorded in Hollywood, 1955; and Chicago, 1956. In the summer of 1955 Woody Herman broke up his big band and put together a small, eight-piece group to hit Las Vegas. The unusual instrumentation of this octet—two trumpets, bass trumpet, tenor, clarinet and rhythm—gave it a big, almost full orchestral sound.
  • Jack Montrose & Bob Gordon: Two Can Play. COMPLETE CAPITOL RECORDINGS 1954-1955 (2CD set). FSR 2226. Montrose died recently in 2006. This recording is part of the new series from Freshsound called Jazz City and dedicated to the jazz scene from the fifties and onwards.
  • Shorty Rogers and His Giants: Complete Quintet Sessions 1954-1956. FSR2233. It was in 1953 Rogers formed his quintet to play the Hollywood Jazz club circuit, and it turned out as an amazing and innovative unit. This massive 3CD boxset presents us with:
    CD1: their recording debut, four tracks cut for RCA Victor in September 1954 + a session from March 1, 1955
    CD2: Hollywood sessions from March, October and November 1955
    CD3: the last tracks Shorty Rogers recorded with his quintet during his Atlantic interim before he returned to RCA Victor + the album "Wherever the Five Winds Blow", recorded in 1956

  • Shorty Rogers and His Orchestra: Feat. The Giants 1950-1956 - West Coast Sounds. FSR2231. This 2-CD set truly demonstrates what was defined as the "West Coast style of jazz" but, in fact, was the Shorty Rogers style. We can hear arrangements of a loose variety, played by the most outstanding group of musicians of the Los Angeles jazz scene.
  • Shorty Rogers & André Previn: In Collaboration. FSR2227. It presents two of the most celebrated and creative personalities of the Hollywood jazz and studio fields in collaboration between 1954 and 1955. Plenty of West Coast musicians are present here: Frank Rosolino, bud Shank, Jimmy Giuffre, Shelly Manne, Barney Kessel, etc...
  • The Swingin’ Nat Pierce Band: Kansas City Memories (2 CD-Set). FSR2232. In the mid Fifties jazz finally seemed to be emerging from its post-war confusion. A swinging beat was returning, and with it the interest of an ever-larger public. Nat Pierce, unhappy with the choppy, uncertain beat of the 'cool' rhythm section as many other fellow musicians, was able to fuse the advanced harmonies of the new with the rhythmic propulsion of the old.
  • Mel Tormé an the Marty Paich Dek-tette: The 1956 Tormé-Paich Legendary Sessions. FSR2230. Fascinated by the sound of the original Gerry Mulligan Ten-tette on Capitol, Mel Tormé had always felt that these same patterns, reworked for the proper vocalist, could blend voice and instrument to the mutual satisfaction of both. In 1956, this idea became a reality. The task of selecting musicians who could produce this sound was given to the versatile pianist-arranger Marty Paich who, in fact, co-featured with Mel on these recordings.

    • ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------



    ITALIAN JAZZ LABELS .... GET BACK ... FRUIT TREE ... WATER ... AKARMA ...



  • Two nice releases on the Italian label Fruit Tree!
    + Eric Dolphy Quintet with Herbie Hancock: Left Alone. CD digipak (FT856CD). This rare set of four tracks was recorded on October 7, 1962 at the Gaslight, New York. Features Eric Dolphy on alto saxophone, bass clarinet and flute; Ed Armour: trumpet; Herbie Hancock: piano; Richard Davis: bass; Edgar Bateman: drums; Joe Carrol: vocals on track 4.
    + Ornette Coleman: Rock The Clock. CD digipak (FT857CD). Recorded live in Berlin in 1971, this set features Charlie Haden on bass, the prominent solos of Dewey Redman on tenor, and Ed Blackwell's delightful drumming. But the real stars are the compositions themselves, which are wonderful vehicles for inspired improvisation.
  • Jelly Roll Morton: Wild Man Blues. Fruit Tree FT847CD. Although the man didn't exactly invent jazz in 1902 as he often claimed, his musical innovations are so many that he never really needed to stretch the truth. This collection contains 17 of his best sides
  • Leadbelly: The Boll Weevil. Fruit Tree. CD digipack FT855CD. This collection begins with 1886 classic African American sharecropper song "Goodnight Irene" and winds through 10 of Leadbelly’s best song desperate, but filled with immeasurable love for life.
  • New from the Get Back-Jazz Series!
    - GET2013LP John Mc Laughlin "Where Fortune Smiles". Originally released in March 1971 by the Dawn label... 5 great free jazz improvisation tracks recorded at Apostolic Studios in New York City during May 1970 with John Surman (sax), Karl Berger (piano), Stu Martin (drums) and Dave Holland (bass)... original artwork... gatefold sleeve... 180 gram HQ vinyl...
    - GET 2021LP Max Roach: Again. This 180g 2LP offers live recordings from 1960-61, the political period of Roach.
    - GET 2022LP Nina Simone: Sings Billie Holiday's Blues. These eight amazing Billie Holiday classics, including "Tell Me More & Then Some", "This Year's Kisses" and "Give Me A Pigfoot And A Bottle Of Beer" are given the full Nina Simone treatment - a rare opportunity to enjoy two legends in one sitting!.

  • Releases from UNIVERSE!

    + UV157CD. Chet Atkins: In Three Dimensions… Plus 21 bonus tracks. This is one of his most characteristic albums of the fifties and Atkins ranges over a variety of genres ( folk or pop inflected tunes, country and jazz) while always maintaining a style all his own. Also includes 21 bonus tracks all recorded in the mid fifties.
    + UV 090LP Chet Baker: My Foolish Heart. Pressed on a 180 Gr. vinyl and recorded in Dallas, Texas in January 1985, this album was originally released by the well-known Italian label Appaloosa Records.
    + UV158CD Harry Belafonte: Calypso + 6 bonus tracks. Also includes 6 bonus tracks recorded in '55-'56.
    + UV155CD Chuck Berry: Live Goode. This historic live recording made in Toronto in 1969, shows a Chuck Berry in full form
    + UV 074 Stan Getz Quintet: Empty Shells (The Entire Cannes Concert). Recorded at the MIDEM in 1980, this live recording is one of the rare testimonies left behind by this particular Stan Getz line-up, featuring the excellent Chuck Loeb (guitar), Andy La Verne (piano), Victor Jones (drums) and Brian Bromberg.
    + UV109-3-4CD Les Paul: Isle Of Golden Dreams (The Capitol Years 1948-54). Second double CD from the original issue as a 4 CD box. This mid-price release features the remaining years (1948-54) of this amazing retrospective of the guitar virtuoso through 47 tracks.
    + UV 056 Mingus: Lionel Sessions. This 1977 session, produced and coordinated by the late vibraphonist Lionel Hampton (who also plays on the album) is a proof of the state of jazz in the late '70s from one of its masterminds, and is a statement of Hampton's artistic "rebirth". Previously released as "His Final Work".
    + UV141/2CD Charlie Parker: The Yardbird Sessions. An incredible double CD set which collects a series of awesome performances by Parker, with Dizzy Gillespie’s ensemble and his own quintet and sextet. All the tracks here included were recorded between 1946 and 1953 with some live tunes from the Rockland Palace Concert and prove once again the genius of this great musician and his ability to work with every giant of jazz.
    + UV171CD Charlie Parker & Dizzy Gillespie: Town Hall Concert, NYC 1945 ... Plus. An amazing gem discovered by Universe in the lost archives of contemporary jazz, something that will catch by surprise even the craziest fans and collectors of these 2 true legends of be-bop. In these live tunes, Parker and Gillespie, backed by the great Max Roach on drums, fly high, offering the listener all the power of their intuitive geniuses. This version features ten bonus tracks, including live-in-studio and radio sessions from some of the rarest acetate of the period.
    + Frank Sinatra: The Legendary Standards (The Columbia Years). 2CD. Recordings between 1943 and 1952 with lots of bonus tracks and alternate versions of the famous standards
    + UV127-3CD Frank Sinatra: Frankie Goes To Hollywood Vol.3: From Here To Eternity. Third CD taken from Sinatra’s Hollywood triple box on Universe. Vol. 2 "The Kissing Bandit" (UV127-2CD) and Vol. 1 "The Sinatra Show" (UV127-1CD) are also available separately, now at midprice.
    + UV 070 Sun Ra: It's After The End Of The World. This is recorded live at the Donaueschingen Music Festival on Oct. 17, 1970 and at the Berlin Jazz Festival on Nov. 7, 1970, at a time when Sun Ra's Arkestra (featuring Alan Silva, Leroy Taylor, Lex Humphries, etc.) was one of the most innovative things happening the already innovative avant-garde jazz scene. Available as CD and 180 Gr. LP
    + UV 075 Sun Ra & His Arkestra: Live At Montreux. The music of this 2CD was recorded in 1976.
    + UV 079 Sun Ra: Live In Paris At The Gibus. From 1973. As usual, Sun Ra never forgets the roots of jazz music and among his original pieces, we find Jelly Roll Morton's classic "King Porter Stomp".
    + UV 080/081 Sun Ra: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght Vol.1 & Vol.2. Those magical moments from 1970 have many goodies. Opening with "Enlightment", sung by Sun Ra and June Tyson, and followed by "The Star Gazers", a keyboard piece that introduces "Shadow World", characterized by Marshall Allen's chilling sax solo. However, the apex is reached by "The Cosmic Explorer", a 20 min "multiple keyboards freakout". +Teddy Wilson & Lionel Hampton: One O’Clock Jump. Recorded October 7, 1977 at Sound Book Studios, New York City, these studio sessions see pianist Teddy Wilson in a high quality sextet line up performing Gershwin standards and other classic jazz authors’ tunes. Includes an impressive version of Count Basie’s “One O’Clock Jump”
  • More from Universe!
    In the mid seventies Lionel Hampton recorded and produced a series of jazz sessions in an attempt to prove that the jazz well had not run dry. Many of them are now again available.
    - Chick Corea & Lionel Hampton: "Sea Breeze". Live concert of piano/vibraphone duets recorded in Cannes in 1978. Gayle Moran sings too on "Come Rain Or Come Shine"and there are solo pieces played by Chick (La Fiesta).
    - Gerry Mulligan "Gerry's blues" was recorded on October 29, 1977. Mulligan is accompanied by Hank Jones, George Duvivier and Bucky Pizzarelli.
    - Buddy Rich's "Cherokee", also from 77 and featuring no less than 3 tenor saxophonists (Steve Marcus, Paul Moen and Gary Pribeck).

  • Released on WATER!
    + Edison Electric Band: Bless You, Dr. Woodward. WATER 155. Originally released on Atlantic/Cotillion in 1970, the only album by this puffy-haired Philadelphia combo is a lost nugget which exemplifies the musical freedom of the late 60's, but looks toward the groovy and funky melodicism that would dominate the 70's. Co-produced by legendary jazz producer Joel Dorn. First time on CD. Detailed liner notes.
    + Roland Kirk: Here Comes The Whistleman.
    + Sonny Sharrock: Black Woman. WATER 152 CD. Originally released on Atlantic/Vortex Records and produced by the great Herbie Mann, Sharrock's uncompromising avant garde jazz guitar stylings literally jump out of the grooves, but there are also soul, gospel, and pop elements that add a nice counterpoint. Recorded with a who's who of New York free jazz players including Dave Burell, Norris Jones, Ted Daniels, and Milford Graves as well as his wife Linda who contributes her Yoko Ono-esque vocals. Detailed liner notes by Byron Coley and Ted Drozdowski.
    + Betty Wright: My First Time Around. WATER 151 CD. This, her very first album released in 1968, was recorded when the singer was just 14 years old, but she was already performing with the fiery soul she would be known for throughout her career. Includes her first chart single, "Girls Can't Do What The Guys Do," and features detailed liner notes. First time on CD!
    + Leo Wright: Soul Talk. Water. WATER146CD. By the time he released "Soul Talk" in 1970 for Atlantic/Vortex Records, Wright already had several "soul jazz" albums under his own name. Features Blue Note guitarist Kenny Burrell, B-3 organ maverick Gloria Coleman and rounding out this soulful quartet is drummer Frankie Dunlop, best known for playing on many classic Thelonious Monk albums.

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    TCB RECORDS ... TCB RECORDS ... TCB RECORDS ... TCB RECORDS ... TCB RECORDS ...

  • TCB Records is a part of Challenge Records concentrating on radio recorded jazz performances. Here are the latest releases:
    Clark Terry / Chris Woods Quintet: Lucerne 78. Swiss Radio Days Jazz Series Vol. 8.
    Art Blakey & Jazz Messengers: Lausanne 1960 Vol.1 Swiss Radio Days Jazz Series Vol. 2.
    Cannonball Adderley Sextet: Lugano 1963 Swiss Radio Days Jazz Series Vol. 3.
    Ben Webster/Dexter Gordon: Baden 1972 Swiss Radio Days Jazz Series Vol. 10.
    Louis Hayes/Woody Shaw Quintet: Lausanne 1977 Swiss Radio Days Jazz Series Vol. 5.
  • Ella Fitzgerald and Oscar Peterson: Swiss Radio Days Jazz Series Vol. 15. TCB 2006 (TCB 02152). Two sessions recorded by the Swiss Radio in 1953 during Philarmonic Jazz. This is maybe the rarest recording in this series, featuring guitarist Barney Kessel, bassist Ray Brown, trumpetist Charlie Shavers, drummer J. C. Heard and partially saxophonist Lester Young.
  • George Gruntz Concert Jazz Band: Tiger By The Tail. TCB 2006 TCB 26702. This band is a reference and an institution inside European jazz and features so many reknown players like Dave Liebman, Franco Ambrosetti, Gary Valente (to name just a few) driven by a specialist of big band drumming, the great Danny Gottlieb

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    JAZZ-ROCK, FUNK, FUSION, ACID & OTHER GROOVES

  • Banda Hermetica: El Canlendario De Los Sonidos - (2006) - Argentina - {Jazz Fusion/ Hermeto Pascoal}
  • Baraka: Shade Of Evolution. Musea Parallèle (MP 3077). Oct. 08. This japanese trio has received an enthusiastic public acclaim during its European tour this spring. Working as a power trio with guitar AND guitar synth. at the center offers Baraka a complete musical freedom, strengthened by their influences: Jimi Hendrix for the wild guitar playing, Led Zeppelin as a *heavy* trademark, etc... All along the album diverse musical territories are visited, from jazz-rock to progressive music, with power and enthusiasm, including some more peaceful sequences, as convincing and entertaining as the others.
  • BBI: BBI. Soleil Zeuhl SZ 15. 2008. This was recorded in 1996 but never released before. BBI is a power trio that mixes the rockiest side of One Shot - it has also bassist Philippe Bussonet in its ranks - with the raw electric power of King Crimson, period Red. Besides Bussonet, the band includes Jean-Claude Buire on drums (ex Offering) and guitarist Laurent Imperato (founding member of Xaal but never recorded with them). A smokin' music with a massive bass sound and solid drumming!
  • Paul Bley. Reissue on the label Improvising Artists of the album "Jaco" (INV 1976) by the famous quartet of Jaco Pastorius (elb), Pat Metheny (elg), Bruce Ditmas (dms) & Paul Bley (elp).
  • Arnold Cheatham: Thing. Porter Records (POR 1507). March 09. First CD edition of an album originally released on LP in 1972 and unfortunaly unnoticed! Close to an electric Miles or an early Weather Report, it presents a band led by a saxophonist and flutist whose expression is not unlike Dave Liebman.
  • Citriniti: Citriniti Featuring Fabrizio Leo. 2nd album by this fusion band formed by two Italian brothers playing bass and drums. This time helped by guitarist Fabrizio Leo and with keyboards on a few tracks, they move towards a more metal fusion, still keeping a high level of complexity in the compositions, soul and passion in the playing. An album that will not reveal all on a first listening (too much to grab!) but will slowly grow on you!
  • Billy Cobham. Nicolisi Productions, an Italian label focusing on smooth jazz and ethno-jazz, releases Billy Cobham's Drum'N'Voice #2. It follows the usual formula and again is offering a great list of guests like: Brian Auger, Buddy Miles, Frank Gambale, Novecento, Mike Lindup, Dominic Miller, Jan Hammer, Jeff Berlin, John Patitucci, Airto Moreira inside a panorama of pop, electric jazz, funky from the ’70, blues, smooth and ethno music.
  • Counter-World Experience: Metronomicon. New album by the German metal prog outfit, opening up to new elements such as electro beats, Latin percussion or string quartet. Recorded in Berlin and extremely well produced (mastered at the famous Studio Pauler Acoustics)
  • Ted Daniel: Tapestry. Porter Records (POR 1503). March 09. This concert from 1974, recorded at Soho's Artist House, presents a band led by pianist (on Fender Rhodes) Ted Daniel, then musical partner of Dewey Redman and Andrew Cyrille; with Khan Jamal on vibes, Jerome Cooper on drums and Tim Ingles on electric bass, the music can be placed alongside albums like Hancock's "Sextant" or "Crossings" or the Tony Williams Lifetime
  • Datrebil: Noise rpO - (2006) - Argentina - {Experimental/Jazz/Rock/Improvisation}
  • Derviche: El Ekeko Cósimico Y Su Taragato Musical (2007) - Argentina - {Jazz / Improvisation}
  • Derviche: Urania (2005) - Argentina - {Jazz / Improvisation}
  • Elephant9: Dodovoodoo (Rune Grammofon RCD 2075). 2008. Excellent new Norwegian trio consisting of Ståle Storløkken (Supersilent, Humcrush) on keyboards, Nikolai Eilertsen (The National Bank, Lester) on bass and Torstein Lofthus (Shining) on drums. Storløkken mostly concentrating on organ and electric piano gives the album an early 70's flavour with traces of an electric Miles jazz-rock, but also prog and psychedelia. Two tracks are homages to the late great Joe Zawinul (Directions and a long version of Dr. Honoris Causa). Also released in a limited (500) white vinyl edition with a fantastic gatefold sleeve! If you're fond of distorded Rhodes, gritty Hammond, vocoder synths and tight energetic rhythm sections, don't miss this one!
  • Jørgen Emborg: Statements. Gateway Music. 2008. The Danish composer, pianist and keyboardist is back with a team of experienced top musicians from the Danish scene, from drummer Morten Lund to saxophonist Hans Ulrik and more yet! Emborg has always been a devoted melodist and the new album is no exception with 10 tracks that will bring you through various moods and styles, from the reflective to the festive, from brassy hard bop to synth fusion in a homage to the late Joe Zawinul. All in all a colourful and positive minded album!
  • Henrik Engqvist is a Danish drummer whose musical projects and many visits to USA have led to collaborations with such great names as bassist Jimmy Haslip and guitarist Robben Ford