There is probably no vocalist who can do more expression within their vocal range as Karrin Allyson. Her vast catalogue is a testament to nuance and emotion without the overt clutter of 'technical prowess.' This album shows her strengths, focusing on Brazilian tunes, the types she always shows so well when in concert. She plays a bit of piano herself, as on a luminous "So Many Stars" and gorgeously personal solo excursion of "Only Trust Your... read more
It's hard to find an album more classic than this one, which throws you right into the heart of bebop without any restraint. It's bold, and that's precisely what gives it its charm, thanks to the excellence of the musicians in this sextet, who immediately draw you into their turbulent universe! David Weiss presents *Auteur*, showcasing original compositions, unreleased works by Freddie Hubbard and Slide Hampton, as well as the latest iteration... read more
4-STARS Trumpeter Paul Tynan's offering for 2019 is entitled quARTtet, emphasis on the capitalization of the embedded word "art."
Jazz recordings have a long history of pairing up with the visual arts, especially in the realm of album and CD cover images: The paintings on Charles Mingus' Mingus Ah Um (Columbia, 1959); all of pianist Dave Brubeck's "Time" recordings of the late 1950/early 1960s; and drummer Chico Hamilton's Ellington... read more
Bad Luck - Four (ambient jazz, avant-garde jazz)
Man, what a great album to kick off the column with. The first of my two numerically-titled picks is also the most easily-labeled "jazz" album of all my selections from the past few months. This isn't meant as a knock against Bad Luck, the moniker of duo Neil Welch (saxophone, live electronics) and Christopher Icasiano (drums). I'm guilty of seeking out the most non-jazz jazz albums I can... read more
On his first album as a proper lead for Origin, saxophonist David Sills is taking the opportunity to reflect upon his time in "The City" after a stay in New York (though his own usual locale is also a major city, LA has a different vibe to say the least). The all-original compositions here take a special effort to touch upon the New York aesthetic in many ways, but offset the busyness somewhat with a light touch on the guitar, a particularly... read more
Organ trios have never been my thing. I think my entire jazz collection includes only one by Jimmy Smith and a Larry Young disc. But many people love this stuff. I strongly suggest that enthusiasts of this genre quickly check out this release. The three band members have substantial experience playing with each other and it really shows. Both tenorman Redman and drummer Blade are magnificent at conceptualizing and implementing Yahel's... read more
The American label Origin is mainly specialized in jazz based on tradition. With 'Provinces' they radically deviate from that course. You could say a kind of "close encounters of the unknown kind". The man who is responsible for this alone: multi-instrumentalist Christopher Icasiano.
The continuously drumming drums create an uncomfortable feeling from the start. With somewhat haunting Hans Zimmer soundscapes and relentlessly dark bass... read more
A collection of musicians who have the Western Michigan University in common, the 7 players on hand flesh out the music of saxophonist/composer Andrew Rathbum with much precision.
"Making No Sense" starts the listen with Matt Landon's frisky guitar lines alongside Rathbun's soulful sax for a timeless jazz spirit, and "Infinite Being" follows with a calmer pace of light drums from benefit much from Scott Cowan's radiant trumpet.
Deeper... 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