New Release Round-up,
Jazz New Release Round-Up - 10th May 2019
Who can resist footage of Monk at the piano? Certainly not me, so this rare film of a concert at the Palais des Beaux-Arts Brussles in 1963 is one of my highlights the week. Charlie Rouse is on fine form here, making it difficult to understand why he was so derided at the time. EuroArts also have a Modern Jazz Quartet DVD out this week. As for new recordings there are several interesting albums from Rich Pellegrin, Ulysses Owens, Jr. and bassist/vocalist/maverick Esperanza Spalding, and my Recording of the Week from Hilde Louise Asbjørnsen.
Pianist Rich Pellegrin is an interesting figure in the contemporary jazz world, composing elusive yet memorable pieces. Here he is with his quintet, together for over ten years, performing five enigmatic compositions including the raw intensity of Trial, the mystical, inscrutable hues of the title cut Down and an extended alternate version of Down recorded with the contemporary classical Mizzou New Music Ensemble.
Available Format: CD
‘Songs Of Freedom’: The music of Nina Simone, Abbey Lincoln & Joni Mitchell is Ulysses Owens, Jr’s tribute to three of the strongest female voices. As one of today’s premier drummers and a rapidly evolving producer, composer, educator, and entrepreneur, Owens has established himself as a leader in his generation of jazz artists. Featuring Rene Marie, Theo Bleckmann, Alicia Olatuja & Joanna Majoko.
Available Format: CD
My Recording of the Week is this quirky album from Hilde Louise Asbjørnsen Red Lips, Knuckles and Bones See my full review here.
Available Formats: CD, MP3, FLAC, Hi-Res FLAC
Matt Groom - Head of Jazz
