Brooks Geiken
“On Resistencia!” and “We Are Not the Headliner,” two inspired ensembles explore the possibilities of rhythm, improvisation, and collective expression.
Claudia Acuña reconnects Chilean roots with American jazz on “Ave de Luz,” while Jorge Drexler explores love, technology, politics, and dance on “Taracá.”
Jonathan Suazo’s exhilarating, roots-conscious celebration of Puerto Rican and Dominican traditions is the standout, while Ray Obiedo assembles an expertly chosen cast for a consistently engaging, groove-rich set.
From Dave Schumacher’s seaworthy “Agua con Gas” to Carlos Henríquez’s rhythmic “Monk con Clave,” these new releases fuse Afro‑Caribbean pulse with big‑band imagination, blending tribute, danceable grooves, and inventive soloing into a shared, celebratory soundscape.
Two standout releases showcase adventurous composition, tight ensemble interplay, and the next wave of trumpet-driven jazz.
Strong albums from trios led by pianists Edward Simon and Alfredo Rodríguez.
Sliding back and forth between the past and the present, “Eating Ashes” paints a gritty, emotional, and forceful vision of a family traumatized by disconnection.
Lettuce is pushing funk forward, drawing on what has come before (Tower Of Power) and making some distinctive changes.
Two jazz albums whose uncompromising visions succeed.
Recommendations for albums from multi-instrumentalist Roger Glenn and vibraphonist Mike Freeman.
Food Commentary: “The Real Food Show” — The Galloping Propagandist