New Release Round-up,
Jazz New Release Round-up - 28th July, 2023
Even though it is late July and a tad quiet on the new release front, there are still fab fresh albums coming from independent labels. This week Alex LoRe impresses both for his compositions and silky alto tone on Everything Will Find Itself, The Dam Jawn team up with Dick Oatts, and Wandering Monster rampage on Zenna. And finally we indulge in some prime Steve Lacy on vinyl, and enjoy the surreal Parisian soundscapes of Cécile Broché .
Alex LoRe has built quite the reputation for his light-toned alto sax sound, which was initially inspired by Lee Konitz, but as we hear on Everything Will Find Itself he has truly found his own niche. The music is forward-thinking yet warm and enveloping, ably navigated by his band of long-term musical partners: Glenn Zaleski on piano, Desmond White on bass and Allan Mednard on drums.
Available Formats: CD, MP3, FLAC
Consisting of five young musicians from the Amsterdam jazz scene, The Dam Jawn came together through a shared experience in the United States; having lived together in Philadelphia for half a year, they found their collective voice by composing and arranging new music inspired by their experience. Their debut album features legendary alto saxophonist Dick Oatts, who also mentored them through the process of writing and arranging their music. The Dam Jawn have shaped their own sound, inspired by the energy and feeling of the current Philadelphia Jazz scene, as well as its rich musical past.
Available Formats: CD, MP3, FLAC, Hi-Res FLAC
Zenna marks the second full-length album by the trailblazing progressive jazz ensemble, Wandering Monster, representing their third collaboration with the Ubuntu label. This captivating record boasts four fresh and original compositions, alongside skillful renditions of works by Jaco Pastorius and Randy Newman. Brace yourself for a sonic journey filled with meticulously crafted arrangements, electrifying group improvisation, enchanting melodies, and irresistibly groovy rhythms.
Available Formats: CD, MP3, FLAC, Hi-Res FLAC
One of Lacy's earlier sessions, cut around the time that he was really immersing himself in the music of Thelonious Monk, and fresh from playing with Cecil Taylor, The Straight Horn of Steve Lacy is a great example of Lacy's ability to present quite challenging music in an effortless way. With a hot band consisting of Charles Davis (baritone saxophone), John Ore (bass), and the legendary Roy Haynes on drums, it's great to see this back on vinyl!
Available Format: Vinyl Record
A rather cool release from an artist immersed in the zeuhl scene, blending chamber jazz, electronics, jazzrock, and field recordings. 3D@Paris artfully interlaces music with the city's everyday sounds, evoking a dreamy urban saunter. Enchanting murmurs, the musicality of crumpling paper, and the rhythmic Metro beat fuse with the musicians' responses, creating a captivating narrative. Cécile Broché weaves her composition, soundtracks, and electric violin, while Russ Lossing contributes piano, Fender Rhodes, and Hammond, and Satoshi Takeishi adds drums and percussion.
Available Formats: CD, MP3, FLAC, Hi-Res FLAC
Matt Groom - Head of Jazz
