Jazz Vault Gallery

Dr. Who Dat? (aka Jneiro Jarel) - Beyond 2morros (Lex 2009)

2009-03-15T07:29:00.001-07:00

Dr. Who Dat? is the project by hip-hop artist, beatmaker, multi-instrumentalist Jneiro Jarel. He is also a core member of Shape Of Broad Minds. His music spreads from vintage Jazz, astro hip-hop to cosmic broken beats through time and space.

The latest release Beyond 2morrow is dark, surreal music surrounded by futuristic sounds and flow of his own. Whether it is a straight-up hip-hop or abstract instrumental beats, the combination of samples and sounds that he delivers, the whole package of good vibes and styles will open up your eyes and ears everytime you listen. More projects coming in your way.

Try it

Tracklist:

1 Lurk
2 Jaws Of Clover
3 Space Balls
4 Lace & Candy
5 Dr. 400,000,000
6 JJ-Tron
7 Bumpy Bump Face
8 Cosmic Congo
9 Nights Over Nantes / Brakes
10 Viberian Twilight Pt. 2
11 Beyond 2morrow
Featuring Shape Of Broad Minds
Vocals - Velben
12 Dark Moon / Cafe
13 Ghetto Dreaming
Vocals - Capital Peoples

Jneiro Jarel on Myspace

Dr. Who Dat on Myspace

Dr. Who Dat on Lex Records

The Roots plays for Late Night With Jimmy Fallon

2009-03-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

It must be quite a change, but they are strong representatives from music community.

Late Night With Jimmy Fallon Episode 1 Clip on Youtube

Pharoah Sanders - Rejoice, Theresa 1981

2009-03-09T19:20:00.000-07:00

I found the first track "REJOICE" from Gilles Peterson's compilation "Incredible Sound Of Gilles Peterson" when I first began to discover uncharacteristic sounds of Jazz. I say uncharacteristic because I was taught to sit down and listen to Jazz on CD or at concerts. But instead, this particular track was played at clubs and radio programs featuring great dance floor grooves. It soon became one of my favorite Jazz albums in the collection, the timeless inspiration.

The entire album consists of beautiful, spiritual music, experimenting non-Western idioms, with Sanders improvising in his signature soulful, uproar free-form sounds. He is surrounded with great musicians, notably and one of my personal fav pianist Joe Bonner. It is also noteworthy that the album was recorded in 1981 during which many great Jazz musicians from 60s and 70s have shifted to more commercial directions for various reasons (recording contracts or artistic decline). Sanders continued to have sessions with compatriot and up-and-coming artists and record for small independent Jazz labels throughout 80s continuing to 90s and 2000s. He is now 68 years old, and still continues to tour worldwide. Respect.

Tracklist:
1 Rejoice (Sanders)
2 High Life (Trad, arr. Sanders)
3 Nigerian Juju Hi-life (Trad, arr. Sanders)
4 Origin (Sanders)
5 When Lights Are Low (Carter)
6 Moment's Notice (Coltrane, Johnson)
7 Central Park West (Coltrane)
8 Ntjilo Ntjilo / Bird Song (Trad, arr. Sanders)
9 Farah (Sanders)

Personnel: Pharoah Sanders (ts, bells, voice, arr);
Joe Bonner, John Hicks (p);
Bobby Hutcherson (vib);
Steve Turre (tb);
Danny Moore (tp);
Peter Fujii (g);
Lois Colin (harp);
Art Davis, Jorge Pomar (b);
Elvin Jones, Billy Higgins (d);
Babatunde (d, perc, voice), Big Black (perc);
B. Kazuko Ishida, Flame Braithwaite, Sakinah Muhammad, Flame Braithwaite, Sakinah Muhammad, Yvette S. Vanderpool, Bobby London, Carol Wilson Scott, George V. Johnson (voice); William S. Fischer (vocal arr)

Pharoah Sanders Official Site

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Dorian Concept - When Planetx Explode, Kindred Spirits, 2009

2009-03-08T18:42:00.000-07:00

The debut release from young talented beatmaker / electronica producer / hip-hop artist from Vienna, Austria, Oliver Thomas Johnson aka Dorian Concept. The music is full of beeps and blips, with beats, synth, keys, and effects. Reminds me of Four Tet, or Squarepusher. There are many Youtube video of him banging microKorg live. Personally, he is definitely the one producer to watch for 2009 and beyond.

Tracklist:
A1. Clap Beep Boom
A2. Freehanded Monkey
A3. Color Sexist
A4. Mesh Beam Splitter
A5. The Fucking Formula
B1. Fort Teen
B2. You Tiresome Thing
B3. When Planets Explode
B4. Het Marshmallow Secret
B5. Two Dimensional

Dorian Concept on Myspace

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United Future Organization - Jazzin', Zero Corporation, 1992

2009-02-11T06:17:00.000-08:00

When 3 DJs, Tadashi Yabe, Toshio Matsuura, and Raphael Sebbag, began regular club night playing Jazz, funk, Latin, and Bossa nova in 1990, when everyone else was playing house music, maybe no one had thought of this was going to create a new genre of music. 2 years later, the trio also known as United Future Organization released Jazzin', the same title of their regular club night. At that time, there were many similar-minded DJs and artists taking Jazz to the next level and sending clear message to the communities where various styles of music intersect and come together. They still may had been a minority in dance music community, but, one thing for sure, they have become the Loud Minority.

Link

Tracklist:

1. Nemurenai-Insomnie
2. Moondance-Moon Rappin'
Featuring - Claudia E.H.
3. Moondance-Moon Chant
Featuring - Abigail Grimsel
4. I Love My Baby-My Baby Loves Jazz
5. I Love My Baby-My Baby Loves Jazz (Cook & Slater Remix)
Remix - Ashley Slater , Norman Cook
6. Loud Minority (Radio Mix)
7. Dig That Beat
8. Nemurenai-Insomnie (Instrumental)

United Future Organization - V, Exceptional Records, 2002

2009-02-10T07:32:00.000-08:00

The 5th and last album from United Future Organization as a trio. In 2002, Toshio Matsuura sadly left to pursue solo career. Once again, the album was released by Cutting-Edge in Japan, and Exceptional Records in Europe. Great league of artists assembled to create simply beautiful Jazz, compared to their earlier releases, not much use of samples, breaks or electronic beats, but rather more live instruments, noticeably the acoustic elements are widely heard throughout the album. Though, they still manage to experiment with the fusion of electronica, Jazz and other eclectic styles of music to showcase their creative forces and, at the end, please our ears with surprises.

Tracklist:
1. Intro (0:54)

2. Esperanza (7:17)
Acoustic Guitar - Naohiko Higuchi
Written By - Raphael Sebbag, Tadashi Yabe, Toshio Matsuura

3. Everyday Routine (7:22)
Written By - Mitsukuni Murayama, Raphael Sebbag, Tadashi Yabe, Toshio Matsuura

4. No Problem (7:37)
Acoustic Bass, Bass [Piccolo] - Isao Suzuki
Percussion - Kosmas Kapitza
Piano - Robert Fonseca
Vocals, Lyrics By - Mark Murphy
Written By - Duke Jordan

5. Microcosmo (4:23)
Written By - Raphael Sebbag, Tadashi Yabe, Toshio Matsuura

6. World Thing (8:01)
Acoustic Bass - Neville Malcolm
Soprano Sax - Nathan Haines
Vocals - Valerie Etienne
Written By - Eric Hochberg, Rick Lazar

7. Lunar Enfant (7:20)
Written By - Mitsukuni Murayama, Raphael Sebbag, Tadashi Yabe, Toshio Matsuura

8. Por Do Sol (5:57)
Acoustic Guitar - Alex Malheiros
Vocals - Sabrina Malheiros
Written By - Mikio Endo, Mitsukuni Murayama, Raphael Sebbag, Tadashi Yabe, Toshio Matsuura

9. Listen Love (8:49)
Piano - Yosuke Yamashita
Vocals - Jeffery Smith
Written By - Jon Lucien

10. Transworld (6:24)
Written By - Mitsukuni Murayama, Raphael Sebbag, Tadashi Yabe, Toshio Matsuura

11. Suite Espagnole (7:30)
Written-By - Mitsukuni Murayama, Raphael Sebbag, Tadashi Yabe, Toshio Matsuura

UFO on Exceptional Records

United Future Organization - Bon Voyage, Mercury, 1999

2009-02-09T03:19:00.000-08:00

United Future Organization trio is back with yet another blend of Jazz and electronica in elegant style. This album brings their further diverse influences of various sounds, from Cuban, flamenco, funk, and vocal Jazz. Yet, the trio manages to keep tight control over the eclectic sounds, and creates Jazzy groove atmosphere to any Jazz crowd or dance floor Jazz dancers. Highly recommended.

Link coming soon

Tracklist:
1. Good Luck Shore (5:30)
Music By - Sebbag, Yabe, Matsuura

2. Tres Amigos (6:00)
Arranged By [Trombone & Horns] - Hideaki Nakaji
Guitar [Tres] - Yuzo Suenaga
Music By - Endo, Sebbag, Yabe, Matsuura
Piano - Yasuyuki Maejima
Tenor Sax - Toshimichi Imao
Trumpet - Tatsuya Shimogami

3. Flying Saucer (4:42)
Lyrics By [Words], Music By - James Moody
Alto Sax - Koi-Kumiko
Tenor Sax - Toshiya Mitsuhashi
Vocals - Dee Dee Bridgewater
Whistle - Toshio Matsuura

4. Happy Birthday (4:45)
Arranged By [Piano & Strings] - Mikio Endo
Bandoneon [Bandneon] - Koji Kyotani
Lyrics By [Words] - Kuzuu, Sebbag, Yabe, Matsuura
Music By - Endo, Sebbag, Yabe, Matsuura
Viola - Satoko Nakamura, Yuji Yamada
Vocals - Jimmy Murakawa
Voice ["smile & Shout!"] - Chinatsu, Hideyo, Endo, Sebbag, Shizu, Yabe , Matsuura

5. Niji (6:40)
Harp [Gravikord] - YasKaz
Lyrics By [Words], Music By - Sebbag, Yabe, Matsuura
Vocals - Masayuki Yui

6. Pilgrims (6:44)
Music By - Sebbag, Yabe, Matsuura

7. Dans Ce Desert (5:09)
Acoustic Guitar - Hiroyuki Komagata
Electric Piano [Rhodes] - Mikio Endo
Lyrics By [Words] - Sebbag, Yabe, Matsuura
Music By - Endo* , Sebbag, Yabe, Matsuura
Vocals, Chorus - Raphael Sebbag

8. Somewhere (7:01)
Chorus - Chinatsu Kuzuu
Music By - Sebbag, Yabe, Matsuura
Rap - Marco Bosco
Trumpet - Toshinori Kondo

9. Labyrinth - Enter At Own Risk (5:12)
Electric Piano [Rhodes] - Mikio Endo
Music By - Endo, Sebbag, Yabe, Matsuura
Sitar [Electric Sitar] - Hiroyuki Komagata

United Future Organization - 3rd Perspective, Talkin Loud, 1996

2009-02-08T21:55:00.000-08:00

Third installment of United Future Organization's full release talkes 70s spy / thriller theme soundtrack-esque styles of Jazz. Accomplished with sleek rhythm and soulful melody, the album brings much soothing and poetic atmosphere, to its signature groovy and funky horns and arrangements. Once again, the album is released and distributed from multiple labels worldwide.

Link in comment

Tracklist:
1. His Name Is... (5:08)
Percussion - Toshio Matsuura
Piano - Mikio Endo

2. The Planet Plan (4:26)
Horns - Chris Caldwell, Dan Anthony, Dean Foley, Jan Scott, Joseph De Jesus, Kiarow O'Neill , P. Jayasinha, Peter Whyman, Richard Exall, Robert Killips, Steve Dawson, Steve Hanillor
Piano, Synthesizer [Arp Odyssey] - Mikio Endo
Strings - Abigail Trundle, C. Goldscheider, D. Schlenther, Eleanor Gilchrist, Geralding Bereen, L. Wynne, Lucy Yendole, Nicola Godscheider, Rache Davies, Richard Bridgmont, Susan Bowran, Teresa Whipple
Voice [Voice Percussion] - OBI-1, Sebbag, Yabe, Matsuura

3. Friends... We'll Be (4:49)
Vocals - Chezere'
Bass - Yoshio Kanamori
Harpsichord - Simon Hale
Tenor Sax - Kazuhiro Takeda
Trombone - Gakutaro Miyauchi
Trumpet - Hideaki Nishioka, Osamu Ueichi

4. Spy's Spice (Mon Espionne) (4:51)
Vocals - Raphael Sebbag
Bass - Yoshio Kanamori
Tenor Sax - Kazuhiro Takeda
Trombone - Gakutaro Miyauchi
Trumpet - Hideaki Nishioka, Osamu Ueishi

5. Fool's Paradise (4:55)

6. Waltz (Le Serpent Rouge) (4:29)
Vocals - Arthur H
Accordion - Geraint Watkins
Drums - Hideo Yamaki
Bariton Sax - Masaki "Bob" Saito

7. Picaresque Eye (5:42)
Vocals - Skip McDonald

8. Nica's Dream (4:11)
Bass Clarinet - Makoto Hirahara
Drums - Hideo Yamaki
Guitar - Hiroyuki Komagata
Piano, Organ [Hammond B3] - Mikio Endo
Soprano Sax - Masato Nakamura

9. Cosmic Gypsy (4:07)

10. Dice For A Change (4:44)
Vocals - Raphael Sebbag

11. The Moving Shadows (5:01)
Piano - Mikio Endo
Voice [Humming] - Gunilla Karlson, Sherry Sugata, Toshio Matsuura

UFO 3rd Perspective on Verve Records Official Site with Audio Sample

United Future Organization - No Sound Is Too Taboo, Talkin Loud, 1994

2009-02-08T21:21:00.001-08:00

Another masterpiece from Japan's ever-finest and influential Jazz DJ trip United Future Organization (UFO). It was more than 15 years ago, but still sounds fresh. This record was released and distributed under Brownswood Records, UFO's label in Japan, Talkin' Loud, Gilles Peterson's own label and sub label of Mercury UK, and Verve Records in US. The notable Jazzdance tune has become the standard floor killer.

Link in comment

Tracklist:
1. United Future Airlines (4:48)
Percussion - Simon Richmond

2. Magic Wand Of Love (6:22)
Bass - Noriyoshi Sasanuma
Guitar - Gemi Taylor
Piano - Jessica Lauren
Vocals - Linda Muriel
Written-By - Earl DeRouen

3. Stolen Moments (5:21)
Arranged By [Choir] - Haruya Yoshimura
Choir - Time Five
Vibraphone - Mike Emenau
Violin - Yae Nishikawa
Voice - Raphael Sebbag
Written-By - Oliver Nelson

4. Future Light (5:58)
Backing Vocals - Gill Manly
Scratches - Mikiko Sakai
Written-By - Mark Murphy

5. Make It Better (5:33)
Bass - Shinichi Osawa
Guitar - Hiroyuki Komagata
Written-By - Dominguinhos Anastacia
Written-By, Vocals - Cleveland Watkiss

6. Sunday Folk Tale (6:17)
Percussions - Snowboy
Written-By, Vocals - Francis Silva

7. Mistress Of Dance (4:25)
Arranged By [Strings] - Hiroyuki Komagata
Saxophone [Soprano] - Steve Williamson
Strings - Nishikawa Quartet

8. Bar-F-Out! (5:00)
Scratches - DJ Krush
Vocals - Urban Poets Society
Written-By - D'Afro , In.Dee.Go , KeFreak

9. Doopsylalolic (4:38)
Written-By, Vocals - Derek Delves

10.Tears Of Gratitude (5:35)
Arranged By [Choir], Written-by - Ayumi Obinata
Choir - Talin Chamber Choir
Piano - Junichi Iwabuchi

UFO on Verve Records with Audio Samples

United Future Airlines

Erik Truffaz - Paris, Blue Note 2008

2009-02-08T06:21:00.000-08:00

The final destination of musical journey by Erik Truffaz comes to Paris, with collaboration with French human beatbox Sly Johnson

Peronnel:
Erik Truffaz - Trumpet, vocals on "The fly"
Sly Johnson - Vocals

Link in comment

Tracklist:
1. Mr Wyatt (Erik Truffaz) 5:07
2. Come together (John Lennon/Paul Mc Cartney) 2:57
3. Addis Addeba (Erik Truffaz) 4:42
4. Nature boy (Eden Ahbez) arrangement Jon Hassell 3:00
5. Nina's dream (Erik Truffaz, Sly Johnson) 3:56
6. La mouche (Erik Truffaz, Sly Johnson) 3:13
7. Goodbye tomorrow (Sly Johnson) 2:52
8. Don't stop (Brian Ferry) 3:29
9. The fly (Erik Truffaz, Sly Johnson) 6:29

Audio sample right here from Erik Truffaz Official Site

Erik Truffaz - Benares, Blue Note 2008

2009-02-08T05:52:00.000-08:00

Erik Truffaz is one of the most exciting Jazz trumpet players at our time, and my personal favorite since his early days with his challenge to push his playing beyond the boundary of conventional Jazz. This album explores polyrhythmic backing with repetitive and percussive piano and vocals fusing with Truffaz's echo and fuzzy trumpet style.

Personnel:
Erik Truffaz - Trumpet
Indrani Mukherjee - Vocals
Apurba Mukherjee - Tablas
Malcolm Braff - Piano

Link in comment

Tracklist:
1. Tarana (Indrani Mukherjee/Apurba Mukherjee) 18:24
2. Saraswati (Erik Truffaz/Indrani Mukherjee) 5:50
3. Yay ! (Malcolm Braff) 6:32

Audio Sample right here from Erik Truffaz Official Site

Erik Truffaz - Mexico, Blue Note 2008

2009-02-08T05:20:00.000-08:00

The collaborative project of post-bop experimental Jazz trumpeter Erik Truffaz and Mexican electronica and IDM artist Fernando Conaro akak Murcof.

Personnel:
Erik Truffaz - Trumpet, Vocals
Murcof - Noises

Link in comment

Tracklist:
1. Al Mediodia (7:31)
2. Good News From The Desert (11:06)
3. Avant L'Aube (8:36)

Audio sample right here from Erik Truffaz Official Site

Erik Truffaz Official Site
Erik Truffaz on Myspace
Erik Truffaz on Blue Note Records
Murcof Official Site
Murcof on Myspace

Miles From India, Times Square, 2008

2009-02-03T22:11:00.000-08:00

A great Miles Davis project produced and coordinated by Sony Record producer Bob Belden, who is responsible for series of Miles Davis reissues box set. The project combines Davis' music from late 60s - early 70 era (during Bitches Brew and On the Corner) with Indian instrumentation and arrangement, with many notable Miles-school alumni. Listening to album like this, this is why Jazz exists and we love it so much.

Tracklist:
Disc 1
1. Spanish Key (20:04)
(MILES DAVIS)
Gino Banks - Drums
Louiz Banks - Piano/fender rhodes
Rakesh Chaurasia - Flute (solo)
Selva Ganesh - Kanjira
Adam Holzman - Keyboards
Dave Liebman - Indian flute
Shankar Mahadevan - Vocals
Rudresh Mahanthappa - Alto sax
Sridhar Parthasarthy - Mridangam
Taufiq Quresh - Djembe/world percussion
Benny Rietveld - Bass
Wallace Roney - Trumpet
Mike Stern - Guitar
Lenny White - Drums

2. All Blues (09:22)
(MILES DAVIS)
Louiz Banks - Piano
Gary Bartz - Alto sax
Ron Carter - Bass
Ravi Chary - Sitar
Jimmy Cobb - Drums
Rudresh Mahanthappa - Alto sax
Vikku Vinayakram - Ghatam

3. Ife (fast) (08:44)
(MILES DAVIS)
Gino Banks - Drums
Pete Cosey - Guitar
Michael Henderson - Bass
Adam Holzman - Keyboards
Dave Liebman - Flute
Kala Ramnath - Violin
A. Sivamani - Percussion
Vikku Vinayakram - Ghatam

4. In A Silent Way (intro) (02:34)
(JOE ZAWINUL)
Adam Holzman - Keyboards
Robert Irving III - Keyboards
Pandit Brij Narain - Sarod

5. It's About That Time (10:12)
(MILES DAVIS)
Gary Bartz - Alto sax
Ndugu Chancler - Drums
Pete Cosey - Guitar
Michael Henderson - Bass
Adam Holzman - Keyboards
Robert Irving III - B3 organ
Kala Ramnath - Violin

6. Jean Pierre (11:05)
(MILES DAVIS)
Ranjit Barot - Drums
Rakesh Chaurasia - Flute
Adam Holzman - Keyboards
Robert Irving III - Keyboards
Benny Rietveld - Bass
Mike Stern - Guitar
Vince Wilburn Jr. - Drums

Disc 2
1. So What (08:16)
(MILES DAVIS)
Louiz Banks - Keyboards
Ron Carter - Bass
Ndugu Chancler - Drums
Chick Corea - Piano
Selva Ganesh - Khanjira /voice percussion
Sridhar Parthasarthy - Mridangam/voice percussion
Taufiq Qureshi - World percussion/voice percussion

2. Miles Runs The Voodoo Down (09:05)
(MILES DAVIS)
Pete Cosey - Guitar
Michael Henderson - Bass
Adam Holzman - Keyboards
Wallace Roney - Trumpet
A. Sivamani - Percussion
Vikku Vinayakram - Ghatam
Lenny White - Drums

3. Blue In Green (13:13)
(MILES DAVIS)
Louiz Banks - Piano
Ron Carter - Bass
Jimmy Cobb - Drums
Dilshad Khan - Sarangi
Shankar Mahadevan - Vocals
Wallace Roney - Trumpet
Mike Stern - Guitar

4. Great Expectations (08:39)
(MILES DAVIS/JOE ZAWINUL)
Ravi Chary - Sitar
Pete Cosey - Guitar
Michael Henderson - Bass
Adam Holzman - Keyboards
Marcus Miller - Bass clarinet
Taufiq Qureshi - Percussion
Wallace Roney - Trumpet
Vince Wilburn - Drums
Vikku Vinayakram - Ghatam

5. Ife (slow) (14:22)
(MILES DAVIS)
Gary Bartz - Soprano sax
Pete Cosey - Guitar
Michael Henderson - Bass
Adam Holzman - Keyboards
Dave Liebman - Tenor sax
Wallace Roney - Trumpet
Badal Roy - Tabla

6. Miles From India (07:06)
(JOHN MCLAUGHLIN)
Louiz Banks - Piano
Sikkil Gurucharan - Vocals
John McLaughlin - Guitar
U. Shrinivas - Mandolin

Miles From India Official Site

United Future Organization - United Future Organization, Talkin' Loud, 1993

2009-02-03T06:11:00.000-08:00

A club Jazz classic from legendary United Future Organization. The true pioneers, a trio of DJs Tadashi Yabe, Toshio Matsuura, and Raphael Sebbag started off and built the foundation for today's club Jazz culture, their style, their cloth, their DJing, and their club nights. Everything from Jazz, latin, hip-hop, soul, vocal Jazz, modal Jazz, hard-bop, and electronica mashed up into the album freely and timelessly. Even listening it now, it still sounds fresh and vibrant, a brilliant mix of groovy and funky journey of the sound of Jazz. A Jazz records that could enlighten your listening entertainment.

Tracklist:
1. The Sixth Sense (7:06)
Vocals - Galliano
Written By - N. C. Weir , R. Gallagher
2. On Est Ensemble Sans Se Parler-L.O.V.E. (5:01)
Written-By - Ariel Wizman
3. Vinyl Junkie (5:39)
Drums - Tatsuyuki Aoki
Guitar - Hajime Tachibana
Trumpet - Kimiyoshi Nagoya
4. Upa Neguinho (4:22)
Drums - Genta
Guitar - Hiroyuki Komagata
Trumpet - Kimiyoshi Nagoya
Written-By - Edu Lobo , Gianfrancesco Guarnieri
5. I'll Bet You Thought I'd Never Find You (7:50)
Flute - Sanshiro
Guitar - Hiroyuki Komagata
Violin - Alex Gray
Vocals, Written-By - Jon Hendricks
Written-By - Les McCann
6. Poetry And All That Jazz (5:36)
Flute - Sanshiro
Violin - Banchi
Written-By - Jack Kerouac
7. Be Here Now (3:02)
8. My Foolish Dream (6:01)
Accordion - Patrick Nugier
Vocals, Written-By - Monday Michiru
9. Off Road (2:51)
Vibraphone - Takashi Ohi

United Future Organization Official Site

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Hajime Yoshizawa - Innocent Nocturne, Village Again, 2008

2009-02-02T17:44:00.000-08:00

This is another release from Japanese Jazz pianist and Sleep Walker keyboardist Hajime Yoshizawa in 2008 from Village Again. The excellent piano trio album acoompanied with drummer Peter Erskine (former member of Weather Report and uncle of Yoshizawa) and bassist late Dave Carpenter, with much straighter modal Jazz with Yoshizawa's wonderful lyrical keys. The album is currently only available officially in Japan, but can be purchased as import.

There is an excellent post on the album at nutriot.com with audio sample.
Hajime Yoshizawa - Inocent Nocturne [source: nutriot.com]

Tracklist:
1. Song To Remember
2. May
3. Jerkyll & Hyde
4. Eastern Step
5. Siesta
6. Thursday
7. Cat Chat Poh
8. Summer Backyard
9. Shukaku No Toki

Link in comment

Hajime Yoshizawa Official Site
Hajime Yoshizawa on Myspace
Hajime Yoshizawa on Extra Freedom Artist Bio (Sorry, Japanese only)

Jimmy Smith - Livin' Up, Verve 1968

2009-02-02T05:27:00.000-08:00

Jimmy Smith proved that he is not just organ Jazz musician, but was able to bring R & B soulful groove to his music. If he were simply plaing mainstream hard bop, then the sound of organ itself would not be recognized and appreciated by many other artists to follow his footsteps, especially for fusion of R & B, blues, and gospel influences. With driving soloing on his right, ubiquitous chodal accompaniment on his left hand, and flowing rhythmic bass line on his feet, Smith could fill every available keys from low to high note in various styles of music.

This is Jimmy Smith's 1968 release "Livin' Up" from Verve Records. During this time at Verve, he had collaborated with arranger and conductor Oliver Nelson leading big band to provide tightly arranged horn sections and soft string orchestration. The album opens with great cover of Mission Impossible Theme, as well as funk original "Big Boss Man", and "Burning Spears", composed by Richard Evans for Soulful Strings. Highly recommended.

Tracklist:
Side 1
A1. Mission Impossible (3:32)
A2. Refractions (4:48)
A3. The Gentle Rain (2:35)
A4. Burning Spear (3:53)
A5. Go Away Little Girl (2:43)

Side 2
B1. Livin' It Up (5:00)
B2. This Nearly Was Mine (3:15)
B3. Big Boss Man (6:14)
B4. Valley Of The Dolls (4:48)

Wax Poetic # 33 February/March Issue

2009-02-01T18:35:00.000-08:00

This is a bit different from usual reviews, but for magazines that I constantly read. Wax Poetic vol. 33 is out now, and it is Philly special with Gamble & Huff and Teddy Pendergrass on the front and back covers (big hello to my friend Greg). Other features include with pieces on Sonny Hopson, Howard Tate, The Stylistics, the Philly jazz circuit, First Choice, ?uestlove, The Pop Art label, Odeon Pope, Jneiro Jarel and others -- plus a memorium tribute to Freddie Hubbard. Highly recommended.

Gamble & Huff on Philadelphia International Records
Rock & Roll Fall Of Fame: Gamble & Huff

Teddy Pendergrass Official Site

Miles Davis "Kind of Blue" recording sessions

2009-01-30T23:53:00.001-08:00

Here is an interesting story from NPR Music show "Between Takes" on reviewing the recording reel tapes from the legendary Miles Davis classic "Kind of Blue" recorded in 1959. You could hear artists exchanging conversations during the sessions, evident of displaying their chemistry with collaborative mix and approach in a very simple and easy manner for the album now had become the modern standard of the history of Jazz. This year marks 50s anniversary of the album, so Sony Legacy is releasing CD/DVD box set.

Between Takes "Kind of Blue Session"

Gilles Peterson Worldwide Award 2009 The John Peel Play More Jazz Award Winner: Jazzanova

2009-01-29T05:53:00.000-08:00

At Gilles Peterson Worldwide Award, each year "The John Peel Play More Jazz Award" is given to the artist who was not afraid to display John Peel-like-minded musical eclectism. This year's winner is Jazzanova.

Jazzanova is 6 men DJ/ producer collective from Berlin, Germany, and one of the main artists associating with Gilles in terms of representing "Join The Dots" concept with their music. In 2008, Jazzanova released their second album "Of All the Things", their first full album in 5 years from "In Between" in 2003.
Jazzanova on Myspace

Though many of their remix are dancefloor-oriented sounds, they take such an extensive amount of time for their album production, subliminally and intelligently incorporating retro sounds like 60s and 70s soul, funk, and falk music into their own interpretations. It is like a filling a hole, the last piece of missing puzzle of our time, crossing the boundary of various musical influences from every aspects, unlike what could have been overshadowed by chart-topping musical styles. Here are video clips of their recording sessions (and another one). Instead of going to electronic, what amaging about Jazzanova is that they never forget who plays music and who listens them. That brings lively vibes to their music, as if it were produced with live musicians. This album might not be seen as typical Jazz album, especially winning "Play More Jazz Award" from Gilles Peterson, compared to past winners. They are not Jazz artists nor do not fall into the category of post-modern, hard-bop, avant-garde, and others. But, to put it in simple words, their music is beautiful. It makes eyes and ears open, and I think that is what Jazz is about.

Tracklist:
01. Look What You’re Doin To Me feat. Phonte
02. Let Me Show Ya feat. Paul Randolph
03. I Can See feat. Ben Westbeech
04. Lie feat. Thief
05. Little Bird feat. Jose James
06. Rockin' You Eternally feat. Leon Ware & Dwele
07. So Far From Home feat. Phonte
08. What Do You Want? feat. Jon Dukie
09. Lucky Girl feat. Paul Randolph
10. Gafiera feat. Pedro Martins & Azymuth
11. Morning Scapes feat. Bembe Segue
12. Dial A Clich feat. Paul Randolph
13. Let Me Show Ya feat. Paul Randolph (Henrik Schwarz Remix)

Robert Mitchell Trio (3io) "The Greater Good", Gilles Peterson Worldwide Best Jazz Album Award 2009

2009-01-28T14:52:00.000-08:00

One of the best Jazz album to come in 2008 is Robert Mitchell's "The Greater Good". Not much for me to say about him and his solo music anymore, because, though his solo career is still short, he has been in the scene playing with various artists in eclectic styles of music including TY, 2 Banks of 4, Courtney Pine, and I.G. Culture. His new album features covers of Massive Attack's Teardrop, Wayne Shorter's Dance Cadaverous and Galt McDermot's Space. Please listen if you like post-modern sound of piano trio with multi-layered mix of musical influences.

Personnel:
Robert Mitchell - Piano
Tom Mason - Bass
Richard Spaven -Drums
Tracks Composed by Robert Mitchell

Tracklist:
1. Cumulus
2. A Map of the Sky
3. Dance Cadaverous
4. Quantum
5. Space
6. Ochre
7. Crystal Eyes
8. Teardrop
9. The Blessing
10. Greater Good

Robert Mitchell Official Site
Robert Michell blog
Robert Mitchell on Myspace
Interview with Robert Mitchell on Basic Soul (Jan 2006)
BBC Music Introducing - Robert Mitchell

Gilles Peterson Worldwide 2009 Winners

2009-01-27T16:23:00.000-08:00

Gilles Peterson Worldwide Awards 2009. The winners are, , ,

Album of the Year: Erykah Badu - New Amerykah: Part One (4th World War) (Universal Motown)

Erykah Badu's sequel album "New Amerykah Part Two (Return of the Ankh)" is due Feb 17, 2009

Track of the Year: Q-Tip ft Norah Jones -- 'Life Is Better' (Universal Motown) from the album "The Renaissance"

Jazz Album of the Year 2009: Robert Mitchell Trio - The Greater Good (Jazz Services)

Gilles Peterson’s Maida Vale Session of the Year 2009: Finn Peters

BBC Introducing Award 2009: Jonathan Jeremiah

John Peel Play More Jazz Award: Jazzanova

Life Time Achievement Award 2009: Marlena Shaw

Here is a video of Jazzanova playing live band.

Check out Brownswood Message Board for more insight from the event

Gilles Peterson Worldwide Awards 2009

2009-01-25T20:26:00.000-08:00

Gilles Peterson's Worldwide Award 2009 was held at London's Cargo this weekend, Saturday 24.

With line-up like no other, this annual celebration of the best music does not dissapoint nobody. And the winners are･・・

LIVE: JAZZANOVA, ROBERT MITCHELL TRIO, DORIAN CONCEPT, QUIET VILLAGE, MAMA MILK, STACY EPPS, JONATHAN JEREMIAH, KUMAR

DJS: GILLES PETERSON, TRUTH & SOUL, RED RACK EM, THE BPM

Gilles Peterson Official Site
Gilles Peterson on Myspace
Gilles Peterson's Youtube Channel
Worldwide Awards Official Site

Philly Joe Jones "Blues for Dracula", Riverside 1958

2009-01-25T04:14:00.000-08:00

Philly Joe Jones gained much fame as one of the most sought drummers in Hard Bop, especially by playing for classic Miles Davis Quintet in mid 50s, but surprisingly did not release many albums under his own name. Compared to other drummers like Art Blakey or Max Roach who led own group or recorded with various styles of music, Jones became important and popular sidemen for soloists, a major force behind many records from Blue Note, Riverside, and Prestige.

This one is his debut release, after leaving from Miles' group in the same year. On this album, what you can hear is not only Jones' strong drum solos and fiery , but also introduction to then up-and-coming talents that would become well known in the world of Jazz including Nat Adderley, Johnny Griffin, Tommy Flanagan (listen to "Tune-up" for intense and hard-driven powerful solos). The album begins with unusual and unexpected opening track, "Blues for Dracula" with several minutes of Jones' ad lib impersonation of the horror-film icon Bela Lugosi.

Personnel:
Philly Joe Jones - Drums, Vocals
Johnny Griffin - Tenor Sax
Nat Adderley - Cornet
Julian Priester - Trombone
Tommy Flanagan - Piano
Jimmy Garrison - Bass
Orrin Keepnews - Producer

Tracklists:
Side A:
1. Blues For Dracula (8:14)
2. Trick Street (3:50)
3. Fiesta (10:25)

Side B:
1. Tune Up (8:04)
5. Ow! (12:12)

Cannonball Adderley "Pyramid", Fantasy Records 1974

2009-01-24T04:20:00.000-08:00

Cannonball Adderley is definitely one of the pivotal figures in history of Jazz, from playing with Miles Davis in late 50s with such releases as "Milestones" and "Kind Of Blue" to leading his own group associating with talents like Joe Zawinul, Bobby Timmons, George Duke, Walter Booker, Charles Lloyd, and Yusef Lateef. He is master of soul-Jazz, and went to find successes with producing classic Jazz standards. His music was well-received with large audiences, due to his ability to cross over between Jazz and more funk, electric and R&B oriented styles of music. Especially, after moving to Capital Records and teaming up with Jazz-Funk producer David Axelrod from mid 60s, he had produced crossover Jazz releases that had met with listeners' taste during those years when psychedelic rock flourished (Beatles' "White Album", Jimi Hendrix Experience, and none of other Miles Davis "Bitches Brew".

Co-produced with Cannonball and Axelrod, this electric, groovy Jazz-funk album was released in 1974, a year before his sudden death. It is a year after Herbie Hancock released "Head Hunters". So maybe we can hear the influence and experiment in sounds from this album, personally not quite sure about his true intension on the recordings. It is very spacy feeling into each tracks, from ARP synth by George Duke who was playing on Frank Zappa's band around this time.

The album features electric sounds throughout most tracks, and lesser soloing from the man himself. The first track is groovy electric funk track, a perfect evidence of Axelrod's production style with heavy percussive beats and layers of sounds.

Personally, though all tracks are electric, fusion vibes, I like the last track "BESS , OH WHERE'S MY BESS", a ballad with more straight forward Jazz with just alto sax and piano. I think the song, style, mood suit him better in this way.

CD Reissue with audio samples

Personnel:
Julian Cannonball Adderley - Alto & Soprano Sax
Nat Adderley - Cornet
Hal Galper - Electric piano
Walter Booker - Bass
Roy McCurdy - Drums

plus
Phil Upchurch - Guitar
George Duke - Electric & Acoustic Clavinet, ARP Synthesizer
Jimmy Jones - Piano (on "BESS" only)

Tracklist:
Side A:
1. Phases (Hal Galper) (6:00)
2. My Lady Blue (Hal Galper) (4:45)
3. Books End (David Axelrod) (5:35)

Side B:
1. Pyramid (Julian Adderley) (3:40)
2. Suite Cannon (Julian Adderley)
1. The King & I (3:13)
2. Time In (4:41)
3. For Melvin Lastie (2:26)
3. BESS , OH WHERE'S MY BESS (G & I Gershwing) (3:36)

David Axelrod Official Site

Steve Reid "NYC, Domino, 2008

2009-01-22T22:57:00.000-08:00

Continuing with Steve Reid releases, this is his most recent work, a collaboration with Kieran Hebden aka Four Tet, called "NYC" from Domino US. Completely electronic Jazz. I usually do not obtain a copy of new Jazz releases these days, but this was different case.

Personnel:
Steve Reid - Drums
Kieran Hebden - Electronics

Tracklist:
01. Lyman Place
02. 1st & 1st
03. 25th Street
04. Arrival
05. Between B & C
06. Departure

Four Tet Official Site
Four Tet on Myspace
Domino Recording
Domino USA

Steve Reid "Nova", Mustevic, 1976

2009-01-22T06:00:00.000-08:00

Steve Reid lives life in Jazz through generations, crossing path with many artists such as Miles Davis, Sun Ra, to James Brown, Fela Kuti and Chaka Khan. His presence has always remained in underground scene, where struggling Black music, particularly left-field, avant-garde Jazz did not find home in the US in the 70s.

This is Steve Reid "Nova", released by Mustevic in 1976. A classic record. Underground experimental, avand-garde Jazz hit. A true original sound. But that is because now people know and understand the musical spirit and dimensions this record produces, with reissues, new materials, supports from DJs such as Gilles Peterson and Benji B. It is good to see such living legend share us with his innovative and spiritual musical mastery today.

On personal story. I picked up this record without knowing anything about it. Same routine as usual, just looking at the cover, and decided to give it a try. At my home, I placed the record on the player, and groovy and wailing horn ensemble came out of speakers and just continued repeating this theme. The very odd record, but the groove stuck in my mind. Soon, I heard the track on Gilles Peterson's Brownswood Basement, and shortly after he began taking that theme part for the opening of his radio show. And then, thanks to the power of Gilles, everyone know about the record. Soul Jazz decided to reissue "Nova", under their Universal Sounds label. Gilles invited him over to the show. And now, once a forgotten figure in Jazz world, Steve Reid is coming back, recording and releasing new materials, and collaborating with young artists such as Kieran Hebden aka Four Tet.

Personnel:
Steve Reid - Drums
Luis Angel Falcon - Acoustic Bass
Richard Williams - Fender Bass
Les Walker - Piano, Organ
Joe Rigby - Alto / Tenor / Soprano Sax
Ahmed Abdullah - Trumpet

Tracklist:

Side A:
1. Nova
2. Lions of Judah
3. Free Spirit Unknown

Side B:
4. Long Time Black
5. Sixth House

Steve Reid Official Site

Sonny Rollins "East Broadway Run Down", Impulse! 1967

2009-01-21T06:29:00.000-08:00

Another great findings over the weekend.

During 60s, Sonny Rollins released 3 albums from Impluse! Records, and this one is definitely the masterpiece. East Broadway Run Down features 2 of John Coltrane's band members, Elvin Jones and Jimmy Garrison, as well as well-established trumpeter Freddie Hubbard (Jones left Coltrane's group in 1966, the year they recorded album). With them, Rollins delivered powerful free-form performance on title track, with Garrison's one note pulse and Jones' multi-layered rhythmic exchange of vamps. While the rhythm section keeping tension building, Rollins and Hubbard play theme in unison somewhat freely, with floating melody line.

This album is real good example of 60s Jazz, hard bop with free Jazz element added, but still remaining in unity. It is also available on CD. Highly recommended.

Personnel:
Sonny Rollins - Tenor Sax
Freddie Hubbard - Trumpet
Jimmy Garrison - Bass
Elvin Jones - Drums

Side A:
1. East Broadway Run Down (20:25)

Side B:
1. Blessing In Disguise (12:24)
2. We Kiss In The Shadow (5:35)

Sonny Rollins Official Site
"East Broadway Run Down on Impulse! Records site

Phil Ranelin "Time Is Now!", Hefty Records, 2001

2009-01-19T18:08:00.000-08:00

Over the weekend, I came across to find Phil Ranelin's "Time Is Now!". Originally released by Tribe Records in 1974, this is a double-LP reissue from Chicago's Hefty Records. This edition is remastered and remixed by John McEntire of Tortoise drummer.

I am not sure if or when I am going to see the original copy of this record. As you may or may not know, releases from Tribe Records are so difficult to find, because 1) the original releases are basically distributed only local-basis (home town Detroit area) with small amount, and 2) today, so many people are looking for them. But this reissue is nice and beautiful, and, over 30 years since the release, it still remains as a lost classic album of 70s spiritual / free-jazz era. A deep musical mix of avant-garde, hard bop, and soulful melodies with rhythmic density reflecting social and political movement seen in 70s.

Living Jazz legend and Tribe Records founder, Phil Ranelin is still active player. His latest release "Living A New Day" will be released by Wide Hive Records on January 27.

Personnel:
Phil Ranelin (Trombone, Percussion)
Haroun El Nil (Alto Sax, Bass clarinet, Percussion)
Wendell Harrison (Tenor Sax, Percussion)
Marcus Belgrave (Trumpet, Flugelhorn)
Charles Moore (Trumpet, Percussion)
Keith Vreeland (Piano)
John Dana, Reggie Shoo Be Doo Fields (Bass)
George Davidson (Drums, Percussion)

Tracklist:
A1. The Time Is Now For Change (13:29)
A2. Time Is Running Out (4:37)
B1. Of Times Gone By (8:41)
B2. Black Destiny (4:01)
B3. 13th And Senate (6:02)
B4. He, The One We All Knew, Pt.1 (3:09)
C1. The Time Is Now For Change (Outtake) (11:32)
D1. Time Is Running Out (Extended) (5:50)
D2. He The One We All Knew (Extended) (4:39)

Phil Ranelin
Phile Ranelin on Myspace
Hefty Records

Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers "Live Messengers", Blue Note, 1978

2009-01-15T14:23:00.000-08:00

I was fortunate to come across this double LP with previously unreleased live sessions from Art Blakey and The Jazz Messengers. The side 1 to 3 were recorded in 1961 and 1962, and side 4 in 1954. This compilation is a part of Blue Note Jazz Classic Series,

Side 1: recorded at the Village Gate in August, 1961
1. The Promised Land
2. Arabia

Side 2: recorded at the Renaissance Club, Hollywood, in March 1962
1. It's Only Paper Moon
2. Mosaic

Side 3: recorded at same date
1. Ping Pong
2. Up Jumped Spring (Alternate Version)

Art Blakey - Drums
Wayne Shorter - Tenor Sax
Freddie Hubbard - Trumpet
Curtis Fuller - Trombone
Ceder Walton - Piano
Jymie Merritt - Bass

Side 4: recorded at Birdland, NYC, on Feb. 21, 1954
1. Wee Dot
2. Blues
3. The Way You Look Tonight

Art Blakey - Drums
Clifford Brown - Trumpet
Lou Donaldson - Alto Sax
Horace Silver - Piano
Curley Russell - Bass

"Freesoul Sessions Volume 1", Antipodean Records, 2008

2009-01-10T16:37:00.000-08:00

Freesoul Sessions is the project of London-based nu-Jazz/Broken beats keyboardist, producer, remixer, label owner Mark de Clive-Lowe. Created in 2004, the the concept is the project is improvising jam session with various style of music, from hip-hop, broken beats, afro-latin, future jazz.

At the session, Mark plays keys, MPC 3000, synth bass, effects, and he is joined by artists including Bembe Segue, Tawiah, Vanessa Freeman on vocals, Kaidi Tatham on keys, drums, Jason yarde on sax, Richard Spaven on drums, Sammy Figueroa on percussions, Mystro on MC, and many other guest artists.
He has released EP 1, 2 & 3 previously, and this is the first CD release compiling the tracks taken from EPs. This music really is full of heavy, groovy and head nodding beats and rhythms. There are many broken beants / future jazz DJs, but are not many artists who could deliver those sounds at live setting. Mark de Clive-Lowe is one of the finest live artists you will ever see. Highly recommended to check his live set when you have a chance, because the live sets do not really have a setlist so you will hear the tunes as it comes out from their improvisation. He is now setting up his studio in LA, and touring worldwide. Check out his Myspace for the tour dates.

Tracklist:
1. Where Can I Go (4:48)
2. Depth Charge (pt. 1 & 2) (10:42)
3. EP 1 (pt. 2) (7:04)
4. Bahia 2010 (7:11)
5. Freelude (3:15)
6. Higher Place (4:07)
7. EP 1 (pt. 1) (6:59
8. Wont Bring It Down (6:23)
9. EP 1 (pt. 3) (3:28)
10. Bring U 2 The 1 (2:30)
11. Reintroducing (4:20)
Download

Freesoul Sessions on Myspace
Mark de Clive-Lowe on Myspace
Mark de Clive-Lowe.net
Mashibeats Blog

Jazzanova live set @ Gilles Peterson's Worldwide Awards 2009

2009-01-08T16:14:00.000-08:00

Just a friendly reminder. If you are in London area, Jazzanova is playing live set from their latest album "Of All The Things" at Gilles Peterson's Worldwide Awards 2009 on Saturday, January 24.

Jazzanova on Myspace

Jazzanova on Sonar Kollektiv

Jazzanova on Universal Music

Gilles Peterson Worldwide Awards 2009 @ Cargo, London

Worldwide Award 2009 Blog

Kaidi Tatham "In Search Of Hope", Freedom School, 2008

2009-01-07T07:35:00.000-08:00

Another master of nu-jazz, West London broken beats, coop massive, keyboardist Kaidi Tatham aka Agent K drops new album in 6 years. Produced and played solely by Kaidi, this album showcases his versatility as masterclass instrumentalist, whether on Rhodes, flute or drums.

The member of Bugz In The Attic, DKD, The Herbaliser, he is a non-stop music loving artists, with everlasting creative energy. Once he steps up on keys or drums, he never stops. One time, I was so fortunate to witness Kaidi and Mark de Clive-lowe jamming for almost 4 hours till 6am.

This album is naturally one of the best electronic breakbeat material to come out of 2008 for sure.

Tracklist
1. In Search Of Hope pt.1 (0.58)
2. Swift Inspiration (Quick Kid) (5:03)
3. Do What You Gotta Do (2:51)
4. Could I Ever Know? (4:38)
5. He Laughs She Cries (3:57)
6. So Amazed (3:50)
7. I'm High (3:18)
8. Simiya (4:33)
9. On A Vibe (4:32)
10. These Things Will Pass (4:02)
11. In Search Of Home pt.2 (1:55)
Download

Kaidi Tatham on Myspace
Bugz In The Attic
Bugz In The Attic on Myspace
Bugz In The Attic on Coopr8.net

The Herbaliser
Freedom School (w/ lots of pics)
"Kaidi on Moog and Dego of 4Hero on decks"

IG Culture "Zen Badizm", Freedom School, 2008

2009-01-07T06:45:00.000-08:00

The true originator, don of West London sound, and Coop producer, Ian Grant aka IG Culture brings mindblowing, Black Jazz vibes of 21st century, blending spiritual and vibrant Jazzy sounds with vocal themes, along with his signature broken beants rhythms and grooves.

Very deep and powerful mix. There is always something new that comes to attention everytime I listen, a bit of Jazz, hip-hop, soul. This was released by Japanese indie label of DJ Kentaro. Interesting to find this tie-up.

The rumor tells IG Culture is working on new album under alias Quango.

Tracklist
Zen I (21:11)
1. Black
2. Consumed
3. Any Questions
4. Revelation
5. Adjusted Perspectives
6. B Free

Zen II (13:30)
7. Separate
8. Ra Bops In Blacknuss
9. Girl U Need A Change Of Mind
10. Finale

Zen III Consumer's Anthem (8:26)
11. This Love
12. Consumed (Refit)
13. Consumed (I Will Not B)
Download

IG Culture on Myspace
IG Culture on Coopr8.net
Freedom School (sorry, Japanese only)

Farewell to Freddie Hubbard (1938 - 2008)

2009-01-03T17:17:00.000-08:00

My first post of 2009, and it is a tribute to one of the truly greatest trumpeter of the history of Jazz. Freddie Hubbard died on December 28, 2008. He was 70. R.I.P

The sound of Freddie Hubbard cannot be categorized into one segment, from hard-bop with Art Blakey and The Jazz messengers (replacing Lee Morgan), his Blue Note recordings, post-bop including Eric Dolphy's "Out to Lunch", Herbie Hancock's "maiden Voyage", to avant-garde recordings with John Coltrane's "Ascension" and "Afrca Brass", and Ornette Coleman's "Free jazz. Later, he moved on to record for CTI, and recorded more pop-Jazz, Jazz-Funk, Soul-Jazz oriented materials. Still, his sound was always energetic, overwhelming, and illuminating, so powerful that his playing will be forever ranked his as the top trumpet playter, along with Gizzy Gillespie, Clifford Brown.

My personal and memorable encounter with one of Freddie Hubbard's record was "Red Clay" I found in London. It was a year 2000, and I was still young and just a guy who was trying to find the records so cool and hip that no one really has. I went to "Release the Groove" on Denman St., and was at the first floor talking to the store clerk about the sounds that I was looking for. And he put out this old record. When I heard the first trumpet sound on intro, I thought this is something different, different means good different. The drums and bass began. And by the time horns sounds came in, I was so hooked, with whole groove, melody, rhythm section, and the horn solo! I talked for like an hour about the album, Jazz-funk records, and CTI records at the store that day. One of the best record buying day of my life. Freddie Hubbard will always and definitely be one of my favorite players, no matter what style of Jazz he played, and his records will remain among my top disc in my vault. R.I.P. H.B. We remember.

Freddie Hubbard "Red Clay", CTI Records, 1970
Personnel:
Trumpet: Freddie Hubbard
Tenor Sax: Joe Henderson
E. Piano: Herbie Hancock
Bass: Ron Carter
Drumbs: Lenny White

Side A:
1. Red Clay
2. Delphia

Side B:
3. Suite Sioux
4. The Intrepid Fox

London Jazz Festival 2008

2008-12-23T16:17:00.000-08:00

London Jazz Festival 2008, in association with BBC Radio 3, took city of London between November 14 - 23.

London Jazz Festival 2008.org.uk

London Jazz Festival 2008 on BBC Radio3

It was featured by big name artists from Herbie Hancock, Chris Potter, Gonzalo Rubalcaba, Chucho Valdes, Bill Frisell, Courtney Pine, to new and experimental artists such as Bugge Wesseltoft, Robert Glasper, and Peter Brotzmann. In addition, there are straight Jazz with new approach from Matthew Herbert Big Band, Roy Hargrove, and The Fice Corners Quintet.

Gianluca Petrella Cosmic Band

2008-12-09T06:05:00.000-08:00

Nicola Conte's collaborator Gianluca Petrella and his Cosmic Band

I would like to write more about Schema Records and associating artists.

Nicola Conte "Rituals", Schema 2008

2008-12-09T05:10:00.000-08:00

Nicola Conte is one of the main figures in Nu-Jazz scene since 90s. Even before Nu-Jazz term began to appear in the media, Italian producer / composer / DJ Nicola Conte was taking his bossa-nova style Jazz in to the floor.

This is his latest album "Rituals", from Schema in 2008. 4 years since his release "Other Directions" on Blue Note Records, this is his signature bossa-nova, latin-Jazz influenced sounds, but with more refined manner. Each track is a song, with vocals, rather than grooves or "dance track". With guests artists like Greg Osby, Teppo Makynen of The Five Corners Quintet, Jose James, and regulars like Pietro Lussu, Gianluca Petrella, and Fabrizio Bosso, he assembles and leads the collectives of musicians, without the use of laptop, drum machine, or turntables. It is nice to see the artists still playing live music. There is a great cover of Duke Ellington's "Caravan". There is also a EP from Schema which has 2 tracks from the album in different versions.

Nicola Conte Official Site
Nicola Conte on Myspace

Schema Records Official Site
Schema Records on Myspace
Schema Records on YouTube

Like Leaves In The Wind

Track Listing:
1. Karma Flower (4:03)
2. The Nubian Queens (6:20)
3. Like Leaves In The Wind (4:51)
4. Love In (4:52)
5. Awakening feat. Jose James (5:51)
6. Paper Clouds (4:08)
7. I See All Shades Of You (5:51)
8. Macedonia (7:06)
9. Song For The Seasons (3:33)
10. Red Sun (4:43)
11. Black Is The Graceful Veil (5:00)
12. Caravan (5:38)
13. Rituals (7:35)

Personnel:
Michael Pinto - Vibes, Percussions
Pierpaolo Bisogno - Vibes, Percussions
Dario Deidda - Bass
Pietro Ciancaglini - Bass
Lorenzo Tucci - Drums
Teppo Makynen - Drums
Daniele Scannapieco - Flute, Tenor Sax
Sandro Deidda - Flute, Tenor Sax
Diane Peters - Harp
Lyrics By [Words] - José James* (tracks: 5) , Nicola Conte (tracks: 1 to 4, 6, 7, 9 to 11)
Music By - Dusko Gojkovich* (tracks: 8) , Nicola Conte (tracks: 1 to 7, 9 to 11, 13) , Sandro Deidda (tracks: 9)
Pietro Lussu - Piano
Edizioni Ishtar - Producer
Nicola Conte - Producer, Guitar
Gaetano Partipilo - Alto Sax
Greg Osby - Alto Sax
Gianluca Petrella - Trombone
Mario Corvini - Trombone
Fabrizio Bosso - Trumpet
Giovanni Amato - Trumpet
Till Bronner - Trumpet
Alice Ricciardi - Vocals (tracks: 7, 9)
Chiara Civello - Vocals (tracks: 1, 6)
José James - Vocals (tracks: 2, 3, 5)
Kim Sanders - Vocals (tracks: 1, 4, 10, 11)
Philipp Weiss - Vocals (tracks: 4, 12)

Cosmic Village "Cosmic Village", For Life Records 2000

2008-12-08T06:47:00.000-08:00

Cosmic Village was the project by Hajime Yoshizawa, Shuya Okino (Kyoto Jazz Massive), Masato Nakamura (Sleep Walker), and Yasushi Kurobane to create future-Jazz mixing with various styles of music including fusion, drum n bass, breakbeats, rock and later to be called "broken beats".

This is their 3rd and the first original album "Cosmic Village", released by For Life in 2000.Mixing with Kurobane's rock guitar sound with Jazz taste of Yoshizawa and Nakamura, Cosmic Village created hybrid sounds that had become genre-less and timeless. It is difficult to describe the album with one category, and it is reasonable to believe that many producers and artists have taken the same footstep to produce similar crossover sounds with collaborative efforts as seen in this project.

They are now gone to solo or group, but Cosmic Village is still alive, and continues evolving.

Track list:
1. Translucent (0:43)
2. The Mirage (4:21)
3. You Can See The Light (5:27)
4. Gravity (4:23)
5. Violets (3:25)
6. Full Load (4:48)
7. Starseed (5:44)
8. Mid-Day-Moon (5:21)
9. Perfect Emotion (4:49)
10. Astral Circulation (6:21)
11. Spiral I (6:05)
12. Biophonics (6:09)
13. Earthrise (3:56)

Download

Hajime Yoshizawa "Japan", Village Again 2008

2008-12-07T05:07:00.000-08:00

Hajime Yoshizawa is the Jazz pianist / keyboardist from Japan. He has been the forerunner in Japanese club Jazz scene, and the one of the most sought keyboardist in nu-Jazz scene by contributing his electric touch with many groups and producers, including Kyoto Jazz Massive, and Jazzanova. He is also a member of Jazz quartet Sleep Walker, more straight forward hard bop group.

Hajime Yoshizawa on Myspace
Hajime Yoshizawa (sorry, Japanese only)
Hajime Yoshizawa blog (sorry, Japanese only)

This is Yoshizawa's solo album "Japan", his first solo material since 2005 from "Music From The Edge Of The Universe". The album is live Jazz, and features guests like Japanese legend Kosuke Mine (sorry, the site is in Japanese) and Navasha Daya of Fertile Ground on vocal. This is his expression to the roots of Jazz, with mix of spiritual modal Jazz, Afro-latin rhythm and vocals. There is an EP release for US and Europe. Cannot wait for the full album release. The essential Japan Jazz album.
Track List:
1. Open Door
2. Time feat Navasha Daya
3. Yoake-Dawn
4. Home feat Shanti
5. Aska
6. Eastern Step
7. Celebration feat Navasha Daya
8. Satellite Dancer
9. Rain
0. May
11. The Seeds Of Spring feat Akiko
12. Bristlecone Pine feat Navasha Daya
13. The Color Of Peace

Sleep Walker playing at Batofar in Paris, 2008

There is his new album coming out this December. The report coming very very soon!

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Nicola Conte "Sketches of Samba", Schema 2008

2008-12-06T02:38:00.000-08:00

The last of Nicola Conte triplet is "Sketches of Samba" from Schema in 2008. This is nice 10 inch vinyl EP with small group playing bossa-style Jazz. The 1st track "Groovy Samba" is cover from Cannonball Adderley's 1962 release "Bossa Nova" (on Riverside) featuring Sergio Mendez. The 2nd track "Solo" is a tribute to Brazilian multi-instrumentalist J.T. Meirelles of Meirelles E S Os Copa 5, in which the tune appeared on 1965 album "O Novo Som" (featuring Eumir Deodato on piano). Five Corner's Quintet's Timo Lassy and Teppo Makynen join as guests on track 2. The other 2 tracks are different version from Conte's album "Rituals". I am quite impressed with young trumpeter Fabrizio Bosso with fierce and energetic sound.

Nicola Conte and his group playing at Casa del Jazz on April 17, 2008

Download

Personnel:
Fabrizio Bosso - Trumpet
Daniele Scannapieco - Tenor Sax
Pietro Lussu - Piano
Nicola Conte - Guitar, Producer, Composer
Pietro Ciancaglini - Double Bass
Lorenzo Tucci - Drums

Timo Lassy - Flute (Track 2) from The Five Corners Quintet
Sandro Deidda - Tenor Sax (Track 2)
Teppo Makynen - Drums (Track 2)
The Five Corners Quintet
The Five Corners Quintet on Myspace
Timo Lassy
Timo Lassy on Myspace

Jose' James - Vocals (Track 3)
Sandro Deidda Flute, Tenor Sax (Track 3)
Giovanni Amato - Trumpet (Track 3)
Mario Corvini - Trombone (Track 3)
Pierpalo Bisogno - Vibes, Bongos (Track 3)
Sandro Deidda - Arrangement (Track 3)
Jose James
Jose James on Myspace

Gaetano Partipilo - Flute (Track 4)
Kim Sanders - Vocals (Track 4)
Pierpaolo Bisogno - Vibraphone, Congas (Track 4)
Kim Sanders
Kim Sanders on Myspace

Tracklist:
1. Groovy Samba
2. Solo
3. The Nubien Queen feat. Jose James (Samba Version)
4. Paper Clouds feat. Kim Sanders (Uptempo Version)

More about J.T. Meirelles, nice blog post from Jazz Station

Nicola Conte presents "Viagem", Far Out Recordings 2008

2008-12-05T21:38:00.000-08:00

This year's another release from Nicola Conte is the compilation "Nicola Conte Presents Viagem" from Far Out Recordings, 2008. When you hear the first track, and if you are nu-jazz heads, you will go like "ahhhh".

"Nicola Conte Presents Viagem" on Far Out Recording
Fae Our Recording on Myspace

Download

Tracklist:
1. Tenório Jr. - Nebuloso
2. Trio Maraya - Canto De Ossanha
3. Hector Costita Sexteto - Tokio
4. Wanda Sá - Vivo Sonhando
5. Ana Lúcia - Balanço Do Mar
6. Zimbo Trio - Zimbo Samba
7. Djalma Dias & Sambossa 5 - Cidade Vazia
8. Octeto De Cesar Camargo Mariano - Samblues
9. Yvette - Preconceito
10. Bossa Jazz Trio - Vamos Embora Uau
11. Sansa Trio - Samba Em Blue
12. Edgard & Os Tais - Bambe-Lo
13. Claudia & Brazilian Octopus - Gosto De Ser Como Sou
14. Som 3 - Margarida B
15. Tenório Jr. - Samadhi

Ornette Coleman "Crisis", Impulse! 1969

2008-12-03T04:29:00.000-08:00

10 years early, by releasing "The Shape Of Jazz To Come", Ornette Coleman made his mark in Jazz community. He continued to record consistent music with great talents. This is Ornette Coleman "Crisis", released by Impluse! in 1969. This was his 2nd album released from Impluse!, after releasing moderate records for Blue Note in mid 60s. This is surprising, but there is no CD reissue for this album. Someone must have forgotten about the album. This is so easy to classify as his all-star line-up, with Haden on bass and Cherry on trumpet. There are a few bits and pieces that people talk about his then 12-years old son playing drums. You could always compare with Billy Higgins or Ed Blackwell as his main drummers, or others such as Elvin Jones or Sunny Murray.But on this album, because it is such a good recording, the band plays in such fiery, intense and provocative music. He is still active in NYC as of today, still trying to express "the sound".

Burning Bill of Rights on the cover? Man! This cannot be happening.

This was recorded live at concert in New York University, NYC, March 22, 1969.

Personnel:
Charlie Haden - Bass
Dewey Redman - Clarinet, Tenor Sax
Ornette Denardo Coleman - Drums
Don Cherry - Flute, Trumpet
Ornette Coleman - Alto Sax, Violin

Side A:
Broken Shadows
Comme It Faut

Side B:
Song For Che
Space Jungle
Trouble In The East

Novi Singers "Rien Ne Va Plus", Muza 1973

2008-12-02T06:24:00.000-08:00

Groovy and funky vocal album from NOVI Singers. This is Novi Singers "Rien Ne Va Plus", released by Muza in 1973. Novi Singers was Polish Jazz vocal group formed in 1964, with Bernard Kawka, Waldemar Parzyński, Janusz Mych, Ewa Wanat, but released only a few albums. NOVI stands for New Original Vocal Instruments. Their original recordings are hard to find, but there is a great compilation by Jazzanova and Daniel West.

Novi Singers: Vocal Jazz From Poland 1965-1975 on JCR

I really like side B. Big band style arrangement with electric rhythm section. Change of pace, styles, harmony. Somehow, the last track is the "Introduction". Should it be the first track?

Personnel:
Vocals and Arrangement - Bernard Kawka, Janusz Mych, Tomasz Ochalski, Waldemar Parzyński

Wojciech Bruślik - Bass
Paweł Jarzębski - Bass
Jan Ptaszyn Wróblewski - Conductor
Janusz Stefański - Drums
Marek Blizinski - Guitar
Wlodzimierz Nahorny - Piano
Zbigniew Namyslowski - Alto Sax
Janusz Muniak - Alto Sax, Tenor Sax
Waldemar Krupiński - Baritone Sax
Tomasz Szukalski - Tenor Sax
Stanisław Cieślak - Trombone
Stanisław Mizeracki - Trumpet
Tomasz Stanko - Trumpet
Zbigniew Seifert - Violin

Side A:
1. Oh Woman
2. The Look Of Love
3. My Own Revolution
4. The Fool On The Hill
5. Second Sight

Side B:
1. Blue Moon
2. Like A Dream In The Sky
3. Rien Ne Va Plus
4. Canto Triste
5. Introduction

Kenny Clarke-Francy Boland "Volcano", Polydor 1968

2008-12-01T05:21:00.000-08:00

If I have a chance to choose which big band I could see in my lifetime, The Clarke-Boland Big Band would be my ultimate choice. This is The Kenny Clarke-Francy Boland Big Band "Volcano", released in 1969 by Polydor. Also known as "Live at Ronnie's 1" because this was recorded live At Ronnie Scott's Club, London on February 28th 1969.

To my opinion, they are the greatest Jazz big band in the history and of all I have heard. Hard bop slammer, with sharp-edged horn sections and lively modal and moving sound. They had been together for 12 years throughout 60s, mainly working and recording in Europe for labels such as MPS. Even though some members changed, they kept their sounds tight and explosive, with arrrangement by Boland made the sound swing, sophisticated, and modern. Not to forget, there were many notable sidemen like Benny Bailey, Idrees Sulieman, Dusko Gojkovic, Billy Mitchell, and Sahib Shihab.

There is a French documentary called "Faces" that introduces CBBB.

Personnel:
Ron Mathewson - Bass
Kenny Clare - Drums
Kenny Clarke - Leader, Drums
Francy Boland - Leader, Piano, Arranger
Chris Whent - Producer
Gigi Campi - Producer
Derek Humble - Alto Sax
Sahib Shihab - Soprano Sax, Baritone Sax
Johnny Griffin - Tenor Sax
Ronnie Scott - Tenor Sax
Tony Coe - Tenor Sax, Clarinet
Ake Persson, Erik Van Lier, Nat Peck - Trombone
Benny Bailey, Dusko Goykovich, Idrees Sulieman, Tony Fisher - Trumpet

Side A:
1. Box
2. Griff's Groove

Side B:
1. Volcano
2. Love Which TO No Loved One Permits Excuse For Loving
3. Now Hear My Mearnin'
4. And Thence We Issued Out Again To See The Stars

The Clarke-Boland Big Band Discography

Woody Herman "Heavy Exposure", Cadet 1969

2008-11-30T02:22:00.000-08:00

Woody Herman, as many know his as a big band leader and fine clarinet player during swing era in 40s, before be bob started to take the spotlight in Jazz. Perhaps, the most famous for "Four Brothers", but he encourage young Jazz musicians to play with his band, whom later have become well-known figures in the history of Jazz. Even after Be Bop had become the much talked music, Herman was always keen to newer styles of music, and kept his versatilities by playing with big band / small band / pop, rock, soul-oriented music.

During 60s, Herman records with 3 albums with Cadet Records.With Cadent arranger Richard Evans, surprisingly he plays more rock and soul music at that time, mixing with Herman's splashy big band with Evans' soulful groove. This is Woody Herman "Heavy Exposure", released by Cadet in 1969. On this recording, he and producer / arranger Richard Evans combines Soul-Jazz arrangement into Herman's conventional big band style of playing, very tight with horns and yet groovy with fuzzy guitar, and funky drumming and percussions.

BTW, Donny Hathaway plays organ on the album.

Side A:
1. Flying easy (Donny Hathaway)
2. I can't get next to you (Whitfield & Strong)
3. Aquarius (J. Rado, G. Ragni, G. MacDermot)
4. Memphis underground (Herbie Mann)
5. High school hero (Jake Holmes)
6. Lancaster gate (Richard Evans)

Side B:
1. The hut (Richard Evans)
2. My cherie amour (Cosby, Wonder & May)
3. It's your thing (Richard Evans)
4. Catch that bird (Loonis McGlohan)
5. Sex machine (Sylvester Stewart)

Personnel:
Gene Perla - Bass
Edward Soph (tracks: A1, A5, B1, B2, B4, B5) - Drums
Morris Jennings (tracks: A2 to A4, A6, B3) - Drums
Phil Upchurch - Guitar
Donny Hathaway - Organ
Marshall Thompson - Percussion
Richard Powell - Percussion
John Hicks - Piano
Richard Evans - Producer, Arranger
Alan Gauvin - Reeds
Frank Vicari - Reeds
Sal Nistico - Reeds
Steve Lederer - Reeds
Woody Herman - Saxophone, Clarinet
Bobby Burgess - Trombone
Pete Dalbis - Trombone
Tom Malone - Trombone
Bill Chase - Trumpet
Harry Hall - Trumpet
Jeff Brillinger - Trumpet
Richard Murphy - Trumpet
Rigby Powell - Trumpet
William Byrne - Trumpet

Woody Herman & Richard Evans "The Hut"

Live album by Jill Scott "Experience; Jill Scott 826+", Hidden Beach, 2001

2008-11-29T07:55:00.000-08:00

Continuing with Jill Scott, this is her live double-album "Experience; Jill Scott 826+", released by Hidden Beach Recordings in 2001. The title 826 means it was recorded on August 25 & 26 at D.A.R. Constitution Hallat, Washington DC, and "+" is for bonus materials in CD 2, with unreleased materials.

Disc 1
1. "Show Intro (Alright Man, It's Time for You to Move)" – 1:33
2. "A Long Walk (Groove)" (Jill Scott, Andre Harris) – 6:18
3. "Love Rain (Suite)" (Jill Scott, Vidal Davis) – 12:30
4. "Slowly Surely" (Jill Scott, Darren Henson, Don Winston Thompson (PROC), K. Fareed, M. Taylor, A. Shaheed Muhammad, J. Yancey, T. Tei, B. Gilberto) – 3:50
5. "One Is the Magic # (Redux)" (Jill Scott, Vidal Davis) – 6:19
6. "Do You Remember" (Jill Scott, Andre Harris) – 8:40
7. "Gettin' in the Way" (Jill Scott, Vidal Davis) – 7:42
8. "It's Love" (Jill Scott, Keith Pelzer, Darren Henson) – 7:36
9. "The Way" (featuring Mike Phillips) (Jill Scott, Andre Harris) – 8:26
10. "Fatback Taffy" (Jill Scott) – 2:15
11. "He Loves Me (Lyzel in E Flat) (Movements I, II & III)" (Jill Scott, Keith Pelzer) – 9:02

Disc 2
1. "Free (Prelude)" (Jill Scott, Andre Harris) – 1:31
2. "Gotta Get Up (Another Day)" (featuring 4hero) (Jill Scott, M. Clair, B. Munn) – 4:58
3. "One Time" (Jill Scott, Vidal Davis, Eric Roberson) – 3:55
4. "Sweet Justice" (Jill Scott, Vidal Davis, Darren Henson) – 5:20
5. "Thickness" (Jill Scott) – 11:02
6. "High Post Brotha" (featuring Common) (Jill Scott, Ivan Barias, Lonnie Lynn, Dale Warren) – 3:41
7. "Gimme" (Jill Scott, Ivan Barias, Randy Muller) – 3:33
8. "Be Ready" (Jill Scott, Ted Thomas, Jr., Jay Chattaway) – 3:13
9. "Free (Epilogue)"/"Gotta Get Up (Another Day)" (Minnie Version) – 16:18

Personnel:
Carol Riddick - Backing Vocals (tracks: 1-01 to 1-11, 2-05)
Monique Harcum - Backing Vocals (tracks: 1-01 to 1-11, 2-05)
Vivian Green - Backing Vocals (tracks: 1-01 to 1-11, 2-05)
Terry Tribbett - Bass (tracks: 1-01 to 1-11, 2-05)
Erik Tribbett - Drums (tracks: 1-01 to 1-11, 2-05)
Pete Kuzma - Keyboards (tracks: 1-01 to 1-11, 2-05)
James Mason - Percussion (tracks: 1-01 to 1-11, 2-05)
Fatback Taffy - Producer (tracks: 1-01 to 1-11, 2-05)
Jill Scott - Producer (tracks: 1-01 to 1-11, 2-05)
Vidal Davis - Producer (tracks: 2-03, 2-04)
Jeff Bradshaw - Trombone (tracks: 1-01 to 1-11, 2-05)
Matt Cappy - Trumpet (tracks: 1-01 to 1-11, 2-05)

Download 1

or

Download 2

Jill Scott "Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds vol.1", Hidden Beach, 2000

2008-11-28T15:36:00.000-08:00

This is just my personal story on how I came about Jill Scott.

I recently heard in the podcast "The Official Twisted Funk Show", when Marc Mac, of 4 Hero, was talking to DJ Rumble about his work with Jill Scott. And that reminded me with my first encounter with Jill Scott a long time ago.

I first heard Jill Scott when she toured with Th Roots for "Things Fall Apart" tour in 1999, where she came in for Erykah Badu. Then, I began hearing her on GIlles Peterson "Worldwide" on BBC Radio1. I was going "Who is Jill Scott?", that people talked about. That was around the time when BBC Radio started Internet broadcast, not podcast, but real-time streaming. And being such an experimentalist, Gilles did live video streaming from, I think, Maida Vale studio. (This was like 1999, and considering it now, it was real forefront challenge in terms of technology and Internet.) And that night's guest was Jill Scott. It was really amazing show, I remember. with full band. She sang tracks from herf album

I personally saw her solo concert, this time I think some of The Roots played with her. She was, and still is, great singer and performer, with such charizma and vocal power on stage.

Oh, and one other thing. When this Album came out, I bought CD. "CD"! Such a history word.

Jill Scott "Who Is Jill Scott, Words and Sounds vol.1", Hidden Beach Recordings, 2000
Download

1. Jilltro
2. Do you remember?
3. Exclusively
4. Gettin' in the way
5. A long walk
6. I think it's better
7. He loves me
8. It's love
9. The way
10. Honey Malasses
11. Love rain
12. The roots (Interlude)
13. Slowly Surely
14. One is the magic #
15. Watching me
16. Brotha
17. Show me
Hidden track: Try/Love Rain remix feat. Mos Def

Jill Scott bio from Jillscott.com

Twisted Funk
Twisted Funk on Myspace
Marc Mac 4 Hero on Myspace
DJ Rumble of DBR on Myspace

Randy Weston "Tanjah", Polydor, 1973

2008-11-28T04:21:00.000-08:00

Randy Weston is the living legend for Jazz. As a soloist, his piano is so distinctive with his percussive touch, but he also shows his creativity as a composer and as a band leader.

In this recording, he teamed up with Melba Liston, who he had collaborated with from early 60s, and large group of big name musicians. Weston's ability to create timeless music and blend rhythmic sounds with African influence marks him one of the true originators of Jazz. On this recording, you could hear him playing Fender Rhodes, as well as acoustic piano.

The album was nominated for Grammy for Best Jazz Performance by Big Band in 1974 (the award went to Woody Herman's Giant Steps, the another funky electric big band recording)

Side A:
1. Hi Fly
2. In Memory Of
3. Sweet Meat
4. Jamaica East

Side B:
1. Tanjah
2. The last Day

Randy Weston.info: Tanjah

Irakere "Irakere", 1979 Columbia Records

2008-11-26T04:56:00.000-08:00

Going along with Afro-Jazz theme, this is "Irakere", released by Columbia Records in 1979. Irakere is Afro-Cuban Jazz group led by pianist and keyboadist Jesus "Chucho" Valdes and saxophonist Paquito D'Rivera. This was recorded at Newport Festival in NYC and Montreux Jazz Festival, and all tracks are composed and arranged by Valdes. The combination of drumming and brass is so energetic, so many change of tempo, and styles, from chanting to drumming to solos. In every tracks, you could find "break" to chop it, if you are in to chopping beats. But not in a commercial way, in a style of natural Cuban rhythm, jam session.

Though this album is everything about Latin-Jazz, it is so interesting to hear that there is a section in the middle on "Misa Negra", that Chucho Valdez plays acoustic piano in classical arrangement. Also interesting enough, the last track "Aguanile" is featured on Grand Theft Auto Vice City soundtrack: Radio Espantoso.

Personnel:
Chucho Valdes: Piano, keyboard
Paquito D'Rivera: Alto sax, Soprano sax, Flute
Arturo Sandoval: Trumpet, vocals
Carlos Averhoff: Tenor sax, Soprano sax, Flute
Jorge Varona: Trumpet
Carlos Emilio Morales: Guitar
Oscar Valdes: Percussions, vocals
Carlos del Puerto: Bass
Jorge "El Nino" Alfonso: Percussions
Armando Cuervo: Percussions
Enrique Pla: Drums

Side A:
1. Juana Mil Ciento
2. Ilya
3. Adagio

Side B:
1. Misa Negra (The Black Mass)
2. Aguanile

Also recommending this release for Cuban-Jazz, Afro-Latin Jazz
Nueva Vision - Latin Jazz From The Cuban Label EGREM / AREITO - compiled by Jazzanova and Erik Ott

Olatunji "Drums Of Passion", 1959 COLUMBIA Records

2008-11-25T06:07:00.000-08:00

I was lucky enough to pick this original copy. The cover is not so in great shape, but it's the record that matters the most. This is Babatunde Olantunji "Drums of Passion", released in 1959 by Columbia Records. Olatunji's sound, particularly this recording, is one of the earliest to introduce African rhythm and sounds to US and influence some of great Jazz musicians including John Coltrane, Yusef Lateef, and Dizzy Gillespie. He formed strong friendship with Coltrane, in fact, Coltrane's last live recording was Olatunji Center of African Culture in Harlem in 1967, where Olatunji had found. It was also considered one of the first "world music" recording in the US.

The album consists of sitraightforward drums, percussions and chorus. Delightful and rhythmic drumming joined with vibrant chant in harmony. Not quite the same as Batucada or Afro-Latin rhythm of drumming. It is relaxing, but also intensifying, energetic, so many sounds and voices coming together as one. The essential, must-have album, I would say.

There is a CD reissue that you could pick up

Side A:
1. Akiwowo
2. Oya
3. Odun de! Odun de!
4. Jin Go Lo Ba

Side B:
1. Kiyakiya
2. Baba Jinde
3. Oyin Momo Ado
4. Shango

The site below is a great reference of Olatunji
African Music Encyclopedia: Babatunde Olatunji

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The Juju Orchestra "Bossa Nova Is Not A Crime", 2008

2008-11-22T04:44:00.000-08:00

This is The Juju Orchestra "Bossa Nova Is Not A Crime" released by Agogo in 2008. Funky Nassau is floor killer tune.

The Juju Orchestra at Myspace

Download
1. This is not a tango
2. What is hip? feat. Carolyn Leonhart & Terry Carrier
3. King of Latin rhythm
4. Take four
5. Do it again feat. Carolyn Leonhart & Robert Smith
6. El Bravo
7. Nao posso demorar feat. Katie B
8. Funky nassau

Archie Shepp "For Losers", Impulse 1971

2008-11-22T03:37:00.000-08:00

Archie Shepp is probably most known for his free-Jazz association, mainly for works with Cecil Taylor and John Coltrane in 1960s and albums from Impulse. As a leader, he started releasing albums from Impluse with fellow avant-garde artists such as John Tchikai, and Roswell Rudd. He also appeared on John Coltrane's "Ascension" in 1965, which was one of the most up-front free-Jazz, and one of my personal favorite recordings. But gradually, maybe from "The Magic of Ju-Ju" in 1967, he began to incorporate different sounds, as for this session the African rhythm. Other styles of music including gospel, ballad, blues, and even swing ("The Way Ahead" in 1968)

This is Archie Shepp "For Losers", released by Impulse in 1971. If you expect to hear his usual eccentric improvisation, anger, chaotic wailing, the first track is going to make you wonder whether you got the right album from the same person. The opening track is going completely to trick you. It is soul-Jazz, with vocals. Then the album follows with another soulful, R&B track.

This could turn the listeners who have listened his past albums away from listening the entire album. But wait and turn the record over to Side B. The 22-min track starts with latin-afro rhythm and Shepp playing the theme over and over, and then goes into the exploration of sound, the firing solo, and ensemble with female vocal. The B-side is definitely the reminiscent of Coltrane sound. In the album liner note, he states his admiration and respect to Coltrane. Side B is does not dissapoint any listners for Impulse recordings and free-Jazz.

Side A
1. Stick 'Em Up
2. Abstract
3. I Got It Bad (And That Ain't Good)
4. What Would It Be Without You

Side B
1. Un Croque Monsieur (Poem: For Losers)

Personnel:
On Stick 'Em Up:
Archie Shepp - Tenor Sax
Martin Banks - Trumpet, Flugelhorn
Grachan Moncur - Trombone
Martin Kenyatta - Alto Sax
Andrew Bey - Piano
Albert Winston - Fender Bass
Bert Payne - Guitar
Beaver Harris - Drums
Leon Thomas, Doris Troy, Tasha Thomas - Vocals

On Abstract:
Archie Shepp - Tenor Sax
Jimmy Owens - Trumpet, Flugelhorn
Grachan Moncur - Trombone
James Spaulding - Alto Sax
Chales Davis - Baritone Sax
Dave Burrell - Organ
Wally Richardson - Guitar
Bob Bushnell - Fender Bass
Bernard Purdie - Drums

On I got It Bad, What Would It Be Without You, Un Croque Monsieur
Archie Shepp - Tenor and Soprano Sax
Woody Shaw - Trumpet
Matthew Gee - Trombone
Clarence Sharpe - Alto Sax
Cecil Payne - Baritone Sax
Cedar Walton - Piano
Wilbur Ware - Bass
Joe Chambers - Drums
China-Lin Sharpe - Vocal

Albert Tootie "Toudie" Heath, "KAWAIDA", 1969, O'Be Records

2008-11-16T03:53:00.000-08:00

This album is incredible, not only exploration into spiritual afro-Jazz, but also features ensemble of greatest musicians at that time. Led by drummer Albert Tootie Heath of Heath brother (along with tenor saxphonist Jimmy Heath, and bassist Percy Heath of Modern Jazz Quartet), his first recording as a leader, the session includes number of 60s heavyweight musicians including Herbie Hancock, Don Cherry, Mtume, and Ed Blackwell. The album was originally released by O'Be Records, but later reissued several times (as Herbie Hancock's reissue). The original is out-of-print.

The tracks are modal, percussive, and has cosmic, spiritual vibe and fire. Personally, I consider this album is one of the recordings that have led to Jazz in 70s with more post-bop, spiritual, african sound and rhythm influence seen in labels such as Strata East, Black Jazz, Impulse, Milestone, and ESP. Recommend for black Jazz / spiritual Jazz listners.

Personnel:
Albert "Toudie" Heath as Kuumba - Drums
Buster Williams as Mchezaji - Bass
Don Cherry as Msafari - Trumpet
Mtume - Conga, Drums
Herbie Hancock as Mwandisi - Piano
Jimmy Heath as Tayari - Tenor & Soprano Saxphone, arranger
Ed Blackwell - Percussion
Billy Bonner as Fundi - Flute & Percussion

Side A:
1. Baraka
2. Maulana

Side B:
1. Kawaida
2. Dunia
3. Kamili

Samon Kawamura "Unfold", 2008

2008-11-14T06:49:00.000-08:00

Samon Kawamura is half-German, half-Japanese hip-hop producer out of Berlin. Recently he did remix of Christian Prommer's Drum Lesson "Around The World", cover of Daft Punk classic hit, for Sonar Kollektiv. One of up-and-coming hip-hop instrumental producers to watch out for.

Samon Kawamura "Unfold", released by Nesola in 2008

1. Intro
2. Sugar Hill feat. Om'Mas
3. Love and Sex
4. Still Significant feat. Kev Brown
5. 0804-005
6. Right Here feat. Oh No
7. Morioka Sunset
8. Night Will Fall
9. Interlude
10. Try feat. Aloe Blacc
11. Let's Do It
12. Lovelude feat. Ta'Raach
13. Get Down feat. Ta'Raach
14. No Te Puede Ver feat. Laura Lopez Castro
15. YWAGD
16. Cp2sk feat. Christian Prommer
17. Playground
18. Outro

Download

www.samonkawamura.com

Samon Kawamura @ Myspace

Jack DeJohnette "Sorcery", Prestige, 1974

2008-11-14T05:25:00.000-08:00

This is Jack DeJohnette "Sorcery", released by Prestige in 1974. This was his first release out of Prestige, after releasing several solo albums from Milestone and Columbia. The album is experimental, Jazz-rock album, and heading to all directions. Somehow he plays keyboard and sax, besides drums. This is before he started recording regularly with ECM in late 70s, and has what to become the signature electric guitar sounds for the label. All tracks focus more on rhythmic parts, rather than melody or solo.

Personnel:
Jack DeJohnette - Drums, Keyboard, C-melody sax
Bennie Maupin - Bass Clarinet
Dave Holland - Bass
John Abercrombie, Mick Goodrick - Guitars
Michael Fellerman - Metaphone

Side 1:
1. Sorcery #1
2. The Right Time
3. The Rock Thing

Side 2:
1. The Reverend King Suite
2. Four Levels of Joy
3. Epilog

Cannonball Adderley "Fiddler On The Roof"

2008-11-12T08:39:00.000-08:00

I said it before, but say it again. Do not get fooled with album cover with Jazz records. They sometimes make your mind go wonder, whether you should get it or not, if you don't know anything about that record. My recommendation is "just go for it". I had that moment many times before, and I am sure you had one as well. And we all gonna have the same moment again and again in the future.

This record is definitely the true master-class Jazz record. This is Cannonball Adderley "Fiddler on the Roof", released by Capital Records in 1964. The record is produced by David Axelrod. During early 60s, Cannonball was playing with various musicians and in different styles of music, like "African Waltz", "Bossa Nova" with Sergio Mendez, with Oliver Nelson Orchestra, till he scores big with "Mercy, Mercy, Mercy" in 1966. There is CD reissue, released in 2003 with digital remaster and bonus tracks. Check it on Amazon if you are interested.

Personnel: Cannonball Adderley (alto saxophone); Charles Lloyd (tenor saxophone, flute); Nat Adderley (cornet); Joe Zawinul (piano); Sam Jones (bass); Louis Hayes (drums).

1. Fiddler On The Roof
2. To Life
3. Sabbath Prayer
4. Chavalah
5. Sewing Machine
6. Now I Have Everything
7. Do You Love Me
8. Matchmaker, Matchmaker

By the way, I found this great site about Cannonball Adderley

The Cannonball Adderley Rendez-vous

"Discovered", tracks sampled by Daft Punk

2008-11-09T06:45:00.000-08:00

Somehow my weekend get always busy and hectic, even though the weekend is supposed to be relaxing and chilled out compared to weekdays. I don't hate it, it's just I have many things to do.

This is "Discovered", released in 2007 by Rapster, a compilation of tunes sampled by none of the other, Daft Punk. A person said to me when we were listening to one of George Duke album "Master of the Game" the other day, about the first track of B-side "I love you more" is a sample Daft Punk used for "Digital Love". I haven't paid attention to what Daft Punk is doing or what tune they make anymore, since they have become the international stars, and, knowing and hearing them in old days, that is kind of like let down. I think I like what they do as entertainers, with metal helmets and space-ship-like stage and lights, they make funny video. But I never have caught up with their music in recent years. But on this compilation, I like their selection from wider variety of genre of music. I am typically impressed with soul selections like George Duke, Sister Sledge, and Little Anthony and The Imperials.

Download

Track List
01. Breakwater - Release the Beast (Robot Rock)
02. George Duke - I Love You More (Digital Love)
03. Edwin Birdsong - Cola Bottle Baby (Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger)
04. Cerrone - Supernature (Verdis Quo)
05. Tata Vega - Get It Up For Love (Da Funk)
06. Karen Young - Hot Shot (Indo Silver Club)
07. Chaka Khan - Fate (Music Sounds Better With You)
08. Sister Sledge - Il Macquillage Lady (Aerodynamic)
09. Oliver Cheatham - Get Down Saturday Night (Voyager)
10. Eddie Johns - More Spell On You (One More Night)
11. Little Anthony & The Imperials - Can You Imagine (Crescendolls)
12. Jerry Goldsmith - The Rec Room (Around The World)

Ramsey Lewis "Up Pops", Cadet 1967

2008-11-05T06:57:00.000-08:00

For any jazz records, you cannot ignore the album cover, especially when the album has pop-oriented covers and R&B materials. But you never know what you come across until you actually listen to the record.

This is Ramsey Lewis "Up Pops", released by Cadet in 1967. The album is arranged by Richard Evans. First, it is Ramsey Lewis in 60s, with his soul-jazz and funky-jazz piano sound. If you like jazz-funk, jazz-pop, soul-jazz, and think that you need electric guitar and bass and vocal, full band outlet, you definitely want to listen to his albums. Ramsey Lewis is probably the one of a few pianist who can create soulful sound with trio.

Second, it's Cadet and it's Richard Evans. He is the leading arrangers and producers along with Charles Stepney at Argo/Cadet Records during this time. He conducts strings for the album. Having said that, jazz album with strings does not sound like a good mix, as if the whole album becomes mellow and too much pop-influenced (not much improvisation). But Richard Evans is not ordinary arranger. He brings lively, changing, heavy sound with strings. I have been listening to arrangements by Richard Evans quite often for some time now, and I highly recommend this album as the example of classic Cadet sound.

Ramsey Lewis: piano
Cleveland Eaton: bass
Maurice White: drums

Side 1

Soul Man
The Look of Love
Respect
Goin' out of My Head
Party Time

Side 2

Bear Mash
I Was Made to Love Her
Alfie
Why Am I Treated so Bad
Jade East

Leon Thomas "The Album" & Danielia Cotton "A Rare Child

2008-11-03T03:49:00.000-08:00

Hello and welcom to my blog. This is my new blog about my music collection, from Jazz, funk, soul, latin, Brazilian, samba, bossa-nova, to the latest of house, broken beats, drum n bass, and hip-hop, dubstep, and grime.

I have decided to start this blog about my music collection, mainly what I get, purchase, and deal with. I have been thinking about how I deal with my music for such a long time. I have been buying records for about 8 years now, and ever since the day one, I cannot stop finding new stuff and learning from them. From that, I have had some really incredible opportunities to meet people that I have admired, and people that have same passion for music. In addition, I have had great experiences with social networking tools such as myspace, facebook, imeem, youtube, to name a few. And not to mention iPod, podcasts, and bloggers for providing me with greater informations. Much respect.

For the beginning, I just wanna start introducing one of the records I have recently got.

First, 2 Leon Thomas albums I have not seen for a while. The first is "The Leon Thomas Album" from 1970. It's very up-tempo, drum-heavy, and very shows how great Leon Thomas is as singer as well as band leader. Highly recommended. (Though I might have another copy of this record somewhere)

Billy Harper Sax (Tenor) Arthur Sterling Piano Howard Johnson Sax (Baritone) Billy Cobham Drums Bob Cunningham Bass Leon Thomas Flute, Percussion, Main Performer, Vocals Richard Landrum Percussion James Spaulding Flute John Williams Guitar (Bass) Oliver Nelson Arranger, Conductor Gene Golden Percussion Ernie Royal Trumpet Donald Smith Flute Roy Haynes Drums Sonny Morgan Percussion Jerome Richardson Sax (Alto)

Another Leon Album is "Facets" from 1973. It is a compilation from his previous releases, with a little of reworks. He is groovy yet spiritual. The cover picture is just eye-catching, you never going to miss it.

By the way, both albums are original copies, and that's what I definitely go for.

Also, I have received CDR of Danielia Cotton's "A Rare Child". She is neo-soul, R&B, soulful singer from New Jersey. But she has alot of influence from rock music, such as Led Zeppelin, and Janis Joplin. Here is her on NPR Music.

Daielia Cotton on Myspace

Download "A Rare Music"