Eschewing ostensible flash and musical sleight of hand, Without Deception is a treat for connoisseurs.
Jazz Concert Review: Cécile McLorin Salvant and Aaron Diehl — A Remarkable Collaboration
The recital of this remarkably self-aware singer was a series of highly literate and musically satisfying mini-dramas.
Jazz CD Review: “Light Blue” — Tight and Graceful
Overall, Light Blue is an impressive album: its ensembles simultaneously tight and graceful, its solos expressive.
Jazz Album Review: Karl Berger and Jason Kao Hwang “Conjure” Freely
These are two practiced masters at free improvisation. I am confident that many listeners will find them as intriguing and accomplished as I do.
Jazz Albums Review: The ‘Season’ of Newvelle Muri — Adventurous, Sure-Footed, and Strikingly Lyrical
The sound on these discs couldn’t be more clear or precise; the music is low-key, thoughtful, and resolutely melodious.
Jazz Album Reviews: The Music of Lerner and Loewe — Back in the Jazz Limelight?
The two new Arbors discs are intended to bring Lerner and Loewe back into the jazz mainstream. We will see what happens. But what wonderful music these two groups have produced!
Jazz Album Review: A Confidently Rousing “La Marseillaise” from Pianist Laszlo Gardony
One of the strengths of Laszlo Gardony’s playing is his confident insistence on what he is doing, his impressive self-assurance.
Jazz Album Review: “Zigsaw: Music of Steve Lampert” — A Complex Dream
For many listeners, Zigsaw will serve as a welcome introduction, not only to a virtuoso jazz ensemble led by an innovative leader, but to the music of composer Steve Lampert.
Jazz CD Review: A “Lost” John Coltrane Recording — “Blue World”
Blue World is valuable for its pellucid recording of takes of tunes Coltrane’s fans already love. They will have to have it.
Jazz Concert Review: The Montreal Jazz Festival Turns 40, Part Two
A sense of promise remains a hallmark of the Montreal Jazz Festival — always end by looking forward.