by Steven Miller
Chris Potter’s Eagle’s Point is the kind of album that only comes around when the stars align—literally and figuratively. Featuring a modern supergroup of Brad Mehldau on piano, John Patitucci on bass, and Brian Blade on drums, this release on Edition Records marks a triumphant moment in contemporary jazz. Each of these musicians has carved out a legendary career in their own right, but here, they come together as one, creating something that feels rare and special.
This album, composed entirely by Potter for this occasion, is a meeting of jazz giants; it’s a convergence of individual mastery, [...]
by Steven Miller
Found in Space: The Music of Gregg Hill buzzes with the power of collaboration, diversity, and the timeless appeal of jazz as a genre that thrives on collective energy. Trombonist and bandleader Michael Dease, known for his reverence for jazz history and his formidable technique, brings together a stellar group of musicians from different backgrounds, ages, and experiences. This project, guided by the intricate, genre-defying compositions of Gregg Hill, serves as a platform for Dease’s belief that ensembles are at their best when they embrace diversity—racially, gender-wise, and [...]
by Steven Miller
Jesus Molina is a 27-year-old prodigious talent from Sincelejo, Colombia, who has established himself as a force in the jazz world. A Berklee College of Music alumnus and Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation award winner, Molina’s multifaceted musicianship spans piano, keyboards, soprano saxophone, and vocals. His latest album, Selah, released on May 24, 2024, under Dynamo Productions, is a spiritual and musical journey that brings listeners into a realm where jazz fusion meets divine inspiration.
Selah, a term derived from Hebrew, often interpreted as “praise” or “lift,” is the perfect title for [...]
by Steven Miller
Nic Vardanega’s New Beginning is a solid project by an Australian-born guitarist and composer, now a seasoned New Yorker. The album consists of eight of his compositions that explores personal and universal themes of renewal and growth. Performed as a trio with Ben Allison on bass and Allan Mednard on drums, Vardanega’s third album delves into the essence of guitar, bass, and drum trios, a format that has long inspired him.
The album opens with the title track, a vibrant piece that showcases Vardanega’s adept melodic lines and intricate chordal structures. The Latin-infused rhythms and rich textures [...]
