by Shannon Smith
With their latest single, “Sunrise,” The Baker Brothers have delivered a track that’s destined for the dance floor. Featuring the soulful stylings of Hannah Williams, though not as the lead vocalist, the song boasts an undeniable groove, polished musicianship, and infectious energy that will keep listeners moving well past the first listen.
From the moment “Sunrise” kicks off with its sharp, hip band hits, Chris Pedleys’ slap-and-pop bass line grabs the listener and locks them into a tight, funk-laden rhythm. Ted Carrasco’s drums anchor the track, laying down a beat that [...]
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 Shannon Smith
Jack White, the former frontman of The White Stripes, released No Name on August 2, 2024. It marks the next step in his solo career with its boundary-pushing sonic adventure, which blends his familiar gritty rock with inventive experimental sounds.
The album opens with “Old Scratch Blues,” built upon blues-inspired guitar riffs and White’s trademark vocal style. The raw, garage-rock energy is paired with lyrics reflecting themes of emotional turbulence and self-reflection.
“Archbishop Harold Holmes” is a track that will catch you off guard with its heavy seventies-styled riff that blends [...]
by Shannon Smith
Jessie Murph’s debut album, That Ain’t No Man That’s The Devil, showcases her approach to today’s songwriting and genre-blending, but her vocal skills are the most impressive. From breath control and pitch to emotional nuance, this 12-track project underscores Murph’s ability to connect deeply with her listeners through emotive voice alone.
Murph’s control is evident throughout the album, particularly in tracks like “I Hope It Hurts.” Here, she moves effortlessly between her chest voice and her upper register, holding sustained notes [...]
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 Shannon Smith
This summer, country music fans were treated to a compelling new release by Christian Hayes, a rising star from Rome, Georgia. His single, “Cheyenne,” stands out in the summer heat in the country music landscape.
Hayes, known as “The Lullaby Kid” due to his ability to blend raw emotion with soothing melodies, brings an authenticity to his music that resonates with listeners. His songwriting, honed since childhood, draws from experiences of love, loss, and longing. Each section of “Cheyenne” feels like a diary entry, with Hayes inviting listeners to share in his [...]