****
Miami-born Vega, assistant professor at Florida A&M University, returned to Chicago to record this, his first leader release. Vega had been active on Chicago's lively Latin jazz scene, notably with the cracking Chicago Afro Latin Jazz Ensemble during his years as a graduate student in the early aughts. He rejoins CALJE co-leader Victor Garcia for a sizzling and sophisticated set of 10 Vega originals.
Bass ace Josh Ramos anchors... read more
The preciousness of youth. Douglas Detrick is not even 30 years old, and already has multiple ensembles and music projects going on the East and West coasts. One such music combo is the AnyWhen Ensemble, which Detrick terms a "Chamber Jazz Group." The music he pushes through this group is not as easily categorized. Part of the charm is that the makeup of the AnyWhen ensemble resembles more a "parlor" ensemble of family musicians, bringing... read more
Whereas many of Chicago's jazz and blues guitar icons seem to channel the dark alleys and the bar sign neon of the city through their instruments, John Moulder's sound is more akin to a synthesis of the lakefront -- a beauty and serenity that is just as likely to show a face of fury and cold precision. For some time now, Moulder has quietly been developing his sound into something quite unique. The Eleventh Hour provides the opportunity to hear... read more
The pandemic changed the world view of this Afro Cuban flautist of five decades standing into focusing more on children in need in times of need. The music certainly doesn't sound as down mouthed as that so don't fear. Brachfeld and her long standing crew of real pros are all in synch with the new vibe. This is one powerful gal that wont be held back and the music is the... read more
The esteemed composer Anthony Branker returns with his 8th release on the Origin label, where 10 pieces surround the idea of 'place' and how it pertains to inclusion and belonging, and he's got a large cast of players for the passionate, rhythmic affair.
"The Door Of No Return" starts the listen with Alison Crockett's expressive spoken word alongside Donald Edwards' frisky drums and Pete McCann's spirited guitar that's complemented by... read more
A dazzling exploration of harmonic possibilities, Exploring Mars is a triumph!
A very cerebral recording, Exploring Mars continues his influences drawn from a personal love of science fiction, Exploring Mars embraces an almost three dimensional sonic depth of field. The conceptual aspect causes only few minor bumps in the road as the spoken word passage on the buoyant "Spirit" adds very little if anything to a composition that... read more
Speech Spirit is the third album by pianist Dominic J. Marshall. The 25-year-old Scot gets one after another accolade from experts and enthusiasts. And for good reason, as his new album presents the musician in an unprecedented and artistic level of play that is full of influences.
Dominic J. Marshall studied classical piano for ten years under the watchful eye of his father. In 2010, Dominic decided to go to college, study jazz, and... read more
The first thing that immediately strikes you about Seattle drummer/percussionist/composer Steve Korn's latest recording, Points In Time, is his remarkably musical cymbal technique. Whether it be his ability to lightly brush the face of the cymbals with just the very tip of the drumstick, or riding out the rhythm on larger cymbals, Korn is able to work musical magic with one of the most overlooked and taken for granted aspects of drumset playing.... read more
This is just a small collection of the Origin Records reviews. Click here to view all reviews or try to Search for your favorite CD title.
Abate Berihun & The Addis Ken Project - Addis Ken
by Hanna Kay, Cult News (Paris)
Abate Berihun & The Addis Ken Project - Addis Ken
by Budapest, Rudolf Radnai
Abate Berihun & The Addis Ken Project - Addis Ken
by Editor, Bman's Blues Report
Jared Hall - Hometown
by Editor, Bman's Blues Report
Dawn Clement - Dear Ms. Dearie
by Editor, Bman's Blues Report
Jared Hall - Hometown
by Dee Dee McNeil, Making A Scene
Affinity Trio - New Outlook
by Tom Haugen, Take Effect
Michael Dease Big Band - Return Trajectory
by Thierry De Clemensat, Paris Move
Brad Goode Quintet Feat. Ernie Watts - Live Your Dream: Live at North Street Cabaret
by Thierry De Clemensat, Paris Move
Maja Jaku - Blessed & Bewitched
by Tom Haugen, Take Effect