New Release Round-up,
Jazz New Release Round-up - 18th August, 2023
For a second outing with his group, Flatbed Buggy, Royston revives this peculiarly satisfying chamber lineup on an album doused in rich musical vernacular. The American drummer, who routinely performs with Bill Frisell (amongst other notable cats) once again presents an original set of engaging compositions exquisitely brought to life by this stellar combo of like-minded associates.
Available Format: CD
A welcome return from a veteran bass master at the forefront of his game. Irresistibly smooth, here Bromberg retains that ineffable gleam his work has come to be known for, whilst managing to avoid all the trappings this genre might imply. Evoking many timeless instrumentation tips of yesteryear before polishing his music within an inch of its life – but not so much that its crucial coarse edge is lost – his band charges forward with a modern feel for the mystique.
Available Formats: MP3, FLAC, Hi-Res FLAC
Dutch-based collective The Dam Jawn have really begun to make a name for themselves since relocating stateside. This international array of young musicians have come together with their some-time mentor, altoist Dick Oatts, who rose to fame following his tenure in the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra under Thad Jones and Mel Lewis. The line between master and student is blurred, however, as the professional-sounding quintet delivers an encouraging set of vibrant post-bop razzamatazz.
Available Formats: CD, MP3, FLAC, Hi-Res FLAC
A solid tour-de-force from the Cuban-born pianist that finds him in the driving seat of a well-executed and reliable quintet. The language of Vessel seems to suggest the classic Blue Note recordings of days gone by. No surprise then, that the esteemed label was partly to thank for this album’s inception with its famed variety of musical flavours, echoed here in Valera’s compositions. With a sturdy bunch of tunes for his ensemble to show off their chops on, this is one record that screams ‘prowess’ in every way.
Available Formats: CD, MP3, FLAC, Hi-Res FLAC
One of the UK’s most intriguing and emotive musical outfits, Cardiff’s Slowly Rolling Camera have gone from strength to strength as they’ve risen to the attention of contemporary jazz listeners. Having found their footing on keyboardist Dave Stapleton’s own Edition Records, this record (their fifth full-length studio release) reprises their fool-proof formula of synthetic timbres and organic ambiance. With the welcome addition of special guests in the form of saxophonist Josh Arcoleo, trumpeter Verneri Pohjola and guitarist Stuart McCallum, Flow keenly anticipates next year’s anniversary marking ten years since the group’s debut.
Available Formats: MP3, FLAC, Hi-Res FLAC
Barney Whittaker
