Browse some recent Origin Reviews.
Anthony Branker & Ascent - Spirit Songs
by Tom Haugen, Take Effect
The inimitable composer and director Anthony Branker enlists some excellent musicians for this 9th album on the Origin label that is actually a reissue of his 2006 debut for Sons Of Sound Records.
The 7 minutes of "Chant For Peace Eternal" opens the listen with Jonny King's fluid piano and flowing sax from Ralph Bowen and Antonio Hart for the graceful jazz presence, and "Parris In April" follows with a dreamy demeanor that uses John... read more
Les DeMerle - Hittin' The Blue Notes, Vol. 1
by , JazzReview
There's no doubt from the downbeat of the first tune on Hittin' The Blue Notes--that tune being "Just Friends"--that this is a drummer's project. In the same way that, say, Art Blakey or Buddy Rich drove their bands, DeMerle establishes an undeniable presence that characterizes his band as well.
First of all, Les DeMerle kicks off the track with an 8-bar introduction (played in 8 seconds), effectively preparing the listener for the intensity... read more
Richard Sussman - Continuum
by Joe Ross, CD Insight
Continuum, the new release on Origin Records from The Richard Sussman Quintet is now available. Richard Sussman is a pianist, composer, music technologist, and professor of jazz composition at Manhattan School of Music in New York City (since 1986). In that capacity, Sussman gives private lessons, teaches, develops jazz arranging class curriculum, and manages all aspects of the electronic music technology/MIDI recording studios for the jazz... read more
Kelly Brand Nextet - The Door
by Jeff Wanser, CD Hotlist: Baker & Taylor
The Door opens into a set of fine original compositions and arrangements by Chicago pianist Brand. To some extent this is a family affair, with her husband, Kelly Sill, on bass, and her daughter Naomi guesting on cello, but she gets much of her help from other folks on sax, flute, trumpet, drums, and occasional vocals. Her fourth CD, this is squarely contemporary, with excellent arrangements, tasteful solos, and beautiful melodies throughout.... read more
Matt Jorgensen - Tattooed by Passion: Music inspired by the paintings of Dale Chisman
by Adam Greenberg, All Music Guide
Music based on visual art is nothing new (many know of Mussorgsky's Pictures at an Exhibition if nothing else), but can be a mixed bag in terms of quality. Though both art forms can show improvisation and structure, musicians have to walk a fine line: too literal in their transcription of color and strength and they risk making terrible music; too free with the aesthetics of their own musical ideas and they risk ignoring the visual... read more
Dave Slonaker Big Band - Convergency
by Jan van Leersum, RootsTime (Belgium)
Composer/arranger Dave Slonaker believes we are living in a new golden age for big bands and given the success of his 2013 debut album "Intrada" he is probably right. Not only was the album nominated for a Grammy for Best Large Jazz Ensemble album but it also received excellent reviews. Slonaker's music is contemporary in the best sense of the word, harmonically refined yet always accessible thanks to a straightforward reliance on time-honoured... read more
Tom Rizzo - Day and Night
by Chris Spector, Midwest Record
An ace guitarist that can play with the shimmering lines of Joshua Breakstone or Pat Martino covers songs even though he can write interesting stuff and calls in first call hands to lend a hand because it's obvious he cares. A solid, swinging date that sure to delight jazz guitar fans, everything you could want in a smoking performance is delivered here. Well done... read more
Alon Farber Hagiga - Reflecting On Freedom
by Chris Spector, Midwest Record
Is it world jazz or is it fusion if it comes from Israel and incorporates other local musics? Does it matter? Now entering it's third decade, this ensemble snake charms, belly dances and parts the waters with chops to spare. Opening the ears to jazz pouring out of Israel, these vets and pros are some really sterling travel guides to new sonic... read more
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