This page will feature record and concert reviews from our DJs. John Hammel (Mozart To Motörhead) and Jeff From Oxford (The Perfumed Garden) get the ball rolling.

September Edition

Theon Cross – Affirmations – Live at the Blue Note New York – New Soil Records -  Theon Cross – tuba/compositions – guitar - Nikos Ziarkas – drums -James Russell Sims - sax - Isaiah Collier – Tuba as a progressive, innovative & creative jazz instrument? Yes indeed, in the hands of virtuoso (both technically & intellectually) Theon Cross. This is a fantastically well recorded live record and Theon and his bandmates lay on their influences, loud & proud. Rock, jazz, dub, funk et al, for a richly integrated & layerd soundscape. Peter Biedermann listed this as his favorite/best record of the year and it would be difficult to argue based on the aural evidence. JH

Azymuth – Marca Passo – Far Out Records  - Alex Malheiros - Bass, Acoustic Guitar & Vocals is the only original member of this solid Brazilian funk/jazz unit alive. This album pays homage to members past and the sounds are cemented into the band’s core sound. There are numerous musicians contributing to this solid throwback to their glory years and plenty of production and energy to keep them thrusting energetically into the future. JH

Earscratcher – Otoliths – Aerophonic Records - Dave Rempis – soprano/alto/tenor saxophone - Elisabeth Harnik – piano - Fred Lonberg-Holm – cello - Tim Daisy – drums – Wow. Another stunner from Dave Rempis and his label Aerophonic.  All four musicians extend the parameters of what you’d expect their instruments can do. And how. Unconventionally creative music of the highest order. Texturally nuanced yet cohesive and challenging. JH

Wet Leg – Moisturizer – Domino Records  - Hester Chambers – guitar, background vocal, lead vocals, synthesizer , electric piano, tin whistle - Ellis Durand – bass guitar, piano, background vocals - Henry Holmes – drums, percussion, background vocals - Joshua Mobaraki – guitar, synthesizer, keyboards, background vocals - Rhian Teasdale – lead vocals, guitar, background vocals – I love to see young artist grow & mature and these folks are doing it in spades. Relentless rhythms and edgy melodies combined with an earnestness and lyrical maturation. Hester Chambers still imbues her lyrics with humor but she is now coupling that penchant with more incisive & deeper musings. This record could wind up in the record of the year lists. JH

Brian  Eno & Beatie Wolfe – Luminal – Verve Records

Brian Eno & Beatie Wolfe – Lateral – Verve Records -   Brian Eno – keys/producer – Beatie Wolfe – lyrics/vocals – Both records released simultaneously. Lateral leans heavily on Eno’s ambient strengths creating expansive sonic landscapes similar to his early work as the father of this genre of music. Obviously there is an enormous amount of pulling & pushing at the ears w/o straining the sensibilities too much. Nothing new or earth-shaking here but if you’re in the mood to let things go through you w/o leaving a bitter aftertaste thrown this in the cd player or stream away. I’m not sure of the depth of Wolfe’s contribution to this record. Luminal on the other hand caters more to his vocals & lyrical gifts. The ethereality is not lost and Wolfe’s vocals are more on the softer side to accommodate the music. There is a bit more heft in the form of keys & guitars with Eno’s signature ambiance, but not enough to strain the emotions in spite of a few darker lyrical perambulations. JH

Avi Avital & Between Worlds - Song of the Birds – Deutsche Grammophon

Avi Avital (mandolin), Alessia Tondo (vocalist), Marina Heredia (vocalist), José Quevedo "Bolita" (guitar), Paquito Escudero (percussion)

Between Worlds - Avi Avital – Mandolin - Simos Papanas – Violin - Davide Dalpiaz – Violin - Jenny Anschel – Viola - Jakob Nierenz – Cello - Uxía Martínez-Botana – Double bass - Gilad Harel – Clarinet - Alex Sopp – Flute - Louise Grandjean – Harp - Itamar Doari – Percussions - Ensemble Rustavi – vocal ensemble – Avi Avital, world class mandolinist and mastermind behind one of the year’s most gratifyingly gorgeous records of the year, takes us on a journey through three distinct regions. The Iberian Peninsula; Southern Italy and the Black Sea area. Classical, folk, traditional music’s are all seamlessly blended by the extraordinary ensemble he has put together along with two striking vocalists; Marina Heredia & Alessia Tondo. They all contribute to a theme of celebrating rather than distrusting differences and finding paths to sharing our intrinsic human values. A better “world music” recording will be difficult to find this year. JH

Ned Rothenberg – Looms & Legends – Pyroclastic Records - Ned Rothenberg – alto sax/Bb & A clarinets/shakuhachi  - If you’re an adventurous sort who revels in the art of creative improvisation, then this is an album for you. Beautifully rendered solo compositions by Ned Rothenberg who explore not only the range (and beyond) of his instruments but of human emotion as well. Where does the composition begin & improv intersect and ultimately does it even matter. A gem of a record and listening to it felt like I was having a conversation not only with the artist but perhaps more importantly, myself. JH

The Doobie Brothers – Walk This Road – Rhino Records - Patrick Simmons – guitar, banjo, recorder, vocals - Tom Johnston – vocals, lead guitar, keyboards, harmonica - Michael McDonald – vocals, keyboards, synthesizers - John McFee – guitar, mandolin, banjo, violin, cello, pedal steel guitar, harmonica, vocals – Wow. Michael McDonald’s return to the band since 1980. The Doobie’s always were expert at blending rock, pop and soul elements and M M’s return makes that blend an easy formula on this occasion. The whole is a well-balanced return to form & easy going craftsmanship. A solid B from me. JH

Ches Smith – Clone Row – Otherly Love Records -  Ches Smith - Percussion
Mary Halvorson - Electric guitar - Liberty Ellman - Electric guitar - Nick Dunston – Bass – It’s the new thing to show off your eclectic compositional & technical skills these days. In most case it leaves the music stilted and not all that interesting but in the case of Ches Smith and this assemblage of skilled musicians & craftsmen (& women) it is a jumping off point for the most energetically structured and aggressive music being created. Mary Halvorson especially seems to blossom in collaboration & in this case competing with and weaving new ideas & textures with Liberty Ellman. All the members of this conglomerate work cohesively, creating imminently listenable and inspiring music from the mind & pen of Ches Smith. Elite. JH

Pink Pantheress – Fancy That – Warner Brothers Records – Victoria Beverly Walker – High energy, electronica pop drawing from numerous influences that add up to nothing really substantial. Infectious. Sure. Earwormy? Sure. Worthy of your deep attention. Nah. A rather nice diversion from the worries & troubles of your day and if you wanna dance, well, jump up and do it. JH

Cynthia Erivo – I Forgive You – Republic Records – Cynthia Erivo is a phenomenal actress & singer. Her new album showcases her vocal talents to the nth degree. Terrific performances, depth of emotion & communication. A bit overlong and banal at points but easily overshadowed by her enormous talent. A singer I would go out of my way to listen to at every chance. JH

North Mississippi All Stars – Still Shakin’ – New West Records  - Cody Dickinson - Drums, vocals on 4 and 5 - Luther Dickinson - Guitars, keys, vocals, bass on 1 and 10  - Rayfield “Ray Ray” Holloman - Pedal steel guitar on 1 and 2  - Bass on 2, 3, 6, and 8 - Synth bass on 7 - Joey Williams  - Vocals on 2, 4, 5, 7, and 8 - Guitar on 1, 4, and 6 - 9 - Bass on 1 – Not much has changed for the Dickinson bros. Still the same nonpareil songwriting and funk infused blues rock they excel  at and this outing is no exception. Guests abound to keep the proceedings as high powerfully funkified as possible, i.e., the Norman Sisters, Robert Kimbrough, et al. Beautiful textures throughout on slide and keys help to glide these guys between genres and keep them looking ahead while their feet are firmly planted in the traditions they obviously relish. JH

Eugenia Canale Rebus Quartet – Turandot – Abeat Records - Eugenia Canale piano, electric piano and arrangements - Achille Succi alto sax, bass clarinet

Tito Mangialajo Rantzer doublebass - Roberto Paglieri drums – A marvelous blend of classicism and ambitious exploration. Arranging the classics for jazz is a long honored tradition and this album furthers the progressions wonderfully. Great arrangements from the opening overture through to the most powerful arias in the repertoire, Nessun Dorma, Non piangere Liu, & Tu che di gel sei ginta. There are even two composed extrapolations to Puccini’s incisive score and these are seamlessly blended with the originals. All the players are on the same page and this is music worth listening to whether you’re an opera fan; a jazz fan or neither. JH

Mary Halvorson – About Ghosts – Nonesuch Records  - Mary Halvorson, guitar (1-8), synth (Pocket Piano) (1–3, 8) - Immanuel Wilkins, alto saxophone (1-2, 4-5)
Brian Settles, tenor saxophone (1-2, 5, 8) - Adam O’Farrill, trumpet (1-8) - Jacob Garchik, trombone (1-8) - Patricia Brennan, vibraphone (1-8) - Nick Dunston, bass (1-8) - Tomas Fujiwara, drums (1-8) -  Complexity, adventurousness, rich tonalities combined with nuanced subtlety underscore the compositions & execution of this fine new release under Mary Halvorson’s name. Add maturity and growth in her writing as well as her technical restraint all in the service of outstanding works. An utterly compelling addition to M.H.’s catalog. JH

Gary Wilson – Come On Mary – Cleopatra Records – A uniquely gifted artist. Lo fi bedroom pop rock. Navel gazing of a high order. Confusion, loneliness, & tension magnificently exposited. Gary Wilson keeps popping up and has been doing so since 1977 rarely changing his modus operandi and why should he. Bizarrely appealing music. JH

Mary Chapin Carpenter – Personal History – Lambert Light Records - Mary Chapin Carpenter – vocals/guitar - Matt Rollings (piano, Hammond organ, Phillips organ, accordion, xylophone), Duke Levine (electric guitar, hammer dulcimer, Chris Vatalaro (drums, percussion), Cameron Ralston (bass), and Josh Kaufman himself (guitar, organ, harmonium, harmonica). – The poetry and promise of universally shared emotions & experiences has been a common theme in MCC’s oeuvre since she first broke on the musical scene in 1987 with her first album,  Home Town Girl. As she has aged her initially inherent insights & wisdom has deepened and expanded. Poetic lyrics and spare arrangements add to the color and richness of her artistry. JH

Mark Turner – We Raise Them To Lift Their Heads – Loveland Music - Mark Turner - Tenor Saxophone. All compositions by Jakob Bro except Slow & Fast by Mark Turner and Misterioso by Thelonious Monk. – If you want to truly understand the creative process and mental processes of an artist………..catch them in a solo atmosphere. This album does just that with perception & acuity on the part of Mark Turner, one of the jazz genre’s shining lights for decades now. I believe possibly the most underrated if not the most under appreciated virtuosos of the modern era. Turner provides the listener with not only his creativity on naked display but also offers ear catching subtlety & articulation. JH

The Leaking Machine - Sound On Sound (Jenny’s Feather Factory)

Third album from Birmingham’s power pop powerhouse trio (actually named after their debut album recorded as Rockingham), Sound On Sound launches the new label from former BBC presenter Adrian Goldberg. Power pop is enjoying a renaissance of late, its jangly, relaxing melodies, exquisite harmonies, and friendly presentation offering a soothing balm to these troubling times. Sporting the talents of ex-Mighty Mighty members Russell Burton and Peter Geoghegan and Winnebago Orchestra’s Spence Roberts, the band continue their finely honed C86 ear candy across eight sprightly toe tappers.

The title track is a crystalline parade march on a sunny summer day, ‘The Love Lawn’ is a holly, jolly marshmallow embrace, and ‘When Time Passed Slow’ looks back kindly on the good old days. There’s a hint of the Ray Davies’ fictional storylines in the latter and ‘Love Is The Word’ is a wonderful Rockpile/Green Pajamas pastiche that ends everything on an upbeat note. JFO

August Edition

Wheelhouse – House and Home  (Aerophonic Records) - Jason Adasiewicz – vibes; Nate McBride – bass; Dave Rempis – soprano/alto/tenor/baritone saxophones.

The record begins with a beautiful tonal chord from the vibes and is quickly answered by a gorgeous reply by Dave Rempis on tenor. All the tracks on the record were recorded live and the sound is magnificent. Wheelhouse is a reunion of the band from their early days at the beginning of this century and they haven’t missed a step. Remarkable chemistry & energy are shared by these three heavyweight musicians. So much nuance and depth to this music reflecting on themes close to home but refracted and extrapolated to offer a path to solace in chaotic times. Again, a special shout out to Jason Adasiewicz’s brilliant vibes playing throughout. JH

Aruán Ortiz – Créole Renaissance – Piano Solo (Intakt Records) On the heels of his highly acclaimed 2024 solo piano record, Cub(an)ism – Aruan Ortiz releases a further exploration of the melding of the musical mixology of Creole music. This music also doesn’t quite go for the full flavor but offers tinges of that unique olio of sounds relying on Ortiz’s own whimsically idiosyncratic twists and turning. Some might even go so far as to suggest tunings! Imaginatively rigorous music from a genius player who doesn’t always play to your expectations yet offers mindfulness and cerebral passion via paths less taken. JH

Eric McPherson – Double  Bass Quartet (Giant Steps Arts) - Eric McPherson – drums; David Virelles – piano; John Hébert – bass; Ben Street – bass. Three originals, one each by the leader, John Hébert & David Virelles and the rest of the workout focusing on music from pianist composers, Monk, Jaki Byard, Stanley Cowell and two from Andrew Hill.  Two basses adds depth & gravitas to the music leaving Virelles to carry a heavy load which he accomplishes elegantly & eloquently. Eric MacPherson is a master percussionist and he provides complimentary subtlety & shading, bobbing and weaving around the musical iterations with a few great ideas of his own. An A+ recording. JH 

Morcheeba – Escape the Chaos (100% Records) - Skye Edwards – vocals; Ross Godfrey – bass/guitar/electronics – Skye Edwards would be any band's not-so-secret weapon. A great vocalist able to convey strength, deep emotion, subtlety, nuance, et. al. without screaming.  She and fellow member Ross Godfrey paint vast landscapes of cinematic sound by blending elements of a number of modern British sound, i.e., trip hop, pop, soul, rock and movie music. Their best record in years. JH

Charlie Musselwhite – Look Out Highway (Forty Below Records) - Charlie Musselwhite – harmonica/vocals; Matt Stubbs (guitar); Chris Andersen (guitar/piano/organ/producer); Randy Bermudes (bass); June Core (drums/percussion) & Al Kapone (vocals: “Ghosts In Memphis”) – At age 81 Charlies hasn’t lost his passion nor vigor for the blues or his astonishing abilities as one of the premier blues harp virtuosos of all time. Another strong, worthy addition to the canon from a perennial exponent of one of America’s finest art forms. Staunchly supported by a crackerjack band.  Edna Luckett duets with Charlie on Ready for Times to Get Better and they get better from the opening notes to the end. The band gets to strut their stuff, sans CM, with a slow blues, Blue Lounge, and they kill it. Swampy and you can feel the steam rising to the ceiling. JH

Thalia Zedek Band – The Boat Outside Your Window (Dear Life Records) - Winston Braman - bass guitar; Gavin McCarthy - drums, percussion; Karen Sarkisian - pedal steel guitar - Thalia Zedek - electric guitar, vocals. With special guests Nancy Asch - percussion on “Shoes” and Beth Heinberg - piano on “Aliyah.”

I’ve always been a fan of Thalia Zedek’s unique voice and musical compositions. Deeply heartfelt poetic lyrics & imagery tied to propulsively energetic & forceful playing. Karen Sarkisian’s pedal steel voicings add atmospheric depth to this record in spades. Wide-ranged emotional music with things to say and they all say it so well. JH

Chris Cheek – Keepers of the Eastern Door (Analog Tone Factory) - Chris Cheek - tenor and soprano saxophones; Bill Frisell - electric and acoustic guitars; Tony Scherr – bass; Rudy Royston – drums. – A fascinating new record from Chris Cheek blending elements of the kitchen sink of music. Trad, contemporary jazz, classical, pop, et. al. Chris is a smooth and by that I mean a lyrical player of world class sensibilities. He enjoys a perfect foil to his ideations in Bill Frisell and the seasoned rhythm section of Scherr and Royston. Richly melodic & strikingly harmonic music. - JH

PlainsPeak – Server Farm (Irabbagast Records) - Jon Irabagon – alto saxophone; Russ Johnson – trumpet; Clark Sommers – acoustic bass; Dana Hall – drums. – Eschewing his other horns & electronics, Jon Irabagon chooses instead to speak with his alto on this outing with a bevy of new compositions and a stellar lineup of bandmates helping him to achieve his musical visionary landscape. This is heavily grounded music in an all-acoustic vein. As always Irabagon requires you to tap your toes to the rhythms but also to engage your mind with the circuitous weavings of his always intriguing and harmonically daring compositions. This is his most engaging and inviting release in years. JH

Tessa Souter – Shadows and Silence – The Erik Satie Project (Noanara Records) - Tessa Souter - vocals/lyrics/arrangements; Luis Perdomo - piano/percussion/arrangements; Yasushi Nakamura - bass; Billy Drummond - drums and cymbals)/arrangement of track 6; Nadje Noordhuis - trumpet and flugelhorn; Steve Wilson (soprano saxophone; Pascal Borderies - spoken word.

Loss, grief, love, transcendence. These themes dominate this re-imagining of the music of the great French post-impressionist composer, Erik Satie. Tessa Souter has written lyrics to accompany these timeless melodies and for the most part they work wonderfully. The music of Satie is striking & spare and these interpretations and words fit that sound world very well. Souter’s fellow musicians are all first class and they rise to the occasion admirably. This record has been received extremely well in most circle but has taken some hits in the French press. Perhaps they feel this a desecration of sorts of a beloved member of the celebrated classical circle Les Six, but for me I view it as an honorable celebratory hybrid. I’m sure Satie at the very least would be amused. JH

Grace Potter – Medicine (Hollywood Records) - Grace Potter – lead vocals, Hammond organ; Scott Tournet – lead guitar, loops, vocals; Benny Yurco – rhythm guitar; Catherine Popper – bass guitar; Matt Burr – drums, percussion; T-Bone Burnett – producer.

A bit more elision, a dash of more soulfulness and we have a different Grace Potter this time out. Is this coming from herself? Producer T-Bone Burnett? Or a combination of the two? Whichever, this is a strongly soulful outing for Ms. Potter and it sounds wonderful! The maturation of Grace Potter is welcome indeed. This record has been in and out of release since 2008 and the finished product is well worth the wait. JH

Terri Lyne Carrington & Christie Dashiell - We Insist 2025! (Candid Records - Terri Lyne Carrington – percussion; Christie Dashiell – vocals; Weedie Braimah – percussion; Milena Casado – tpt/flgh; Devon Gates – bass; Morgan Guerin – multi-instrs; Zacchae’us Paul – vocals; Emmett G. Price III – voice; Tamia Elliott – vocals;- Ian Michael – guitar; Simon Moullier – vibes; Matthew Stevens – guitar; Julian Priester – trombone; Ayodele Casel – tap dancer.

This is the type of music that energized the protest movements of the sixties & early seventies in America. A fusion of jazz, soul, latin, funk, rockin’ blues……….. This is meant to be a direct comparison to those turbulent times and the equally turbulent times we exist in now. Music & lyrics that urge, implore & at times push you out of your complacency and into action of any sort. Great playing by all but especially the two main forces in play here. TLC ‘s drumming both punctuates and underscores the music and the message that is being imparted by Christie Dashiell, who sings with the requisite urgency and understated subtlety as needed. JH 

José James – 1978: Revenge of the Dragon (Rainbow Blonde Records) - José James - Vocals; Talia Billig - Vocals; BIGYUKI - Synthesizers, Keyboards; David Ginyard - Bass; Kyle Miles - Bass; Ebban Dorsey - Alto saxophone; Takuya Kuroda - Trumpet; Jharis Yokley - Drums; Ben Wendel - Tenor saxophone, effects.

José James gets a bit funky and weird here. This record is accompanied by a short kung fu film and it takes it’s inspiration and title from blaxploitation & kung fu films. Originals sit side by side with covers of the Stones’ Miss You, Michael Jackson’s Rock With You & the Bee Gees Inside Out. Cool stuff designed to ease you through the hot streets of summer. Nothing earthshaking here, just a finely honed rhythm & horn section with James’ fine vocals to help you take it slow and chill. JH

Taj Mahal - Keb Mo – TajMo - Room on the Porch (Concord Records) - Taj Mahal: Vocals and percussion, acoustic guitar, and more; Keb' Mo': Electric and acoustic guitar, vocals, and harmonica; Jimmy Nichols: Hammond organ and Wurlitzer; Brian Allen: Upright bass; Keio Stroud: Drums; David Rodgers: Hammond+ organ/synth; Michael B. Hicks, Ron Poindexter, Gene Miller: - Background vocals; John Oates: Contributes to "She Keeps Me Movin'"; Billy Branch: Harmonica on "Better Than Ever";Jenee Fleenor: Violin on the title track; Jeff Coffin: Saxophone on "Blues'll Give You Back Your Soul".

Plenty of room on the porch for these two wonderful artists. A blend of blues, soul, Americana, et. al., from Taj (who’s been doing this for decades) and Mo (who’s been doing this for, er, well, decades now, too), beautifully blending their voices, gruff & mellow, to extraordinary effect. Wonderful songs of peace, love & unity w/o sounding tacky. Guests Ruby Amanfu on Room on the Porch & Wendy Moten on Better Than Ever, provide a distaff sensibility to the harmonies. JH

Haim - I Quit (Polydor Records) - Alana Haim – vocals, guitar, keyboards, percussion, piano, synthesizer; Danielle Haim – lead vocals, drums, guitar, percussion; Este Haim – vocals, bass guitar, percussion. – A bit of a rawer sound from the Haim sisters and it fits them well. Songs of heartache & resilience. Love the mix on this record with the vocals more up front. Some folks might opine that the overall musical texture is a bit of old school and I say yes, I like it. Familiar & fresh at the same time. All songs co-written with Rostam Batmanglij, with his production and engineering. So his fingerprints are all over the record but it’s still definitively a Haim record. Their personalities are too strong for it to be otherwise. JH

Matt Haimovitz – Alfred Schnittke – Cello Concerto No 1 (PentaTone Records) – Matt Haimovitz – cello; MDR Leipzig Radio Symphony Orchestra - Dennis Russell Davies – conductor. This work was originally commissioned for cellist Natalie Gutman in 1985. It was written by Alfred Schnittke after he survived a stroke & he composed it with the themes of life, death and transcendence in mind. It was immediately recognized as a strong addition to the cello repertoire. Matt Haimovitz is one of our premier cellists today and he delivers on this piece with aplomb and depth of intensity and emotion. The MDR Orchestra is superbly conducted in accompanying Haimovitz in this piece. Not unexpectedly as Dennis Russell Davies is one of our leading & living musical legends in his own right. JH

Keith Jarrett – New Vienna (ECM Records) - July 9, 2016, Goldener Saal, Musikverein, Vienna – Well anything by Keith Jarrett is worth a listen. No exception here. Keith improvising madly and proving yet once again why he is/was the greatest living improviser. His technique coupled with the flair & facility of his musical thought processes are simply astounding. I mean, jeez the rapidity with which he works, blending genres at mind numbing speed and with extraordinary dynamism! After two devastating strokes in 2018, which left him partially paralyzed, it is doubtful that he will ever perform again. The richness of his legacy and the music on this album shouldn’t make anyone morose but instead wash over and fill you with the unmitigated joy and genius that is, was and always will be the musicianship and creativity of Keith Jarrett. JH

Stereolab – Instant Holograms on Metal Film (Duophonic UFH Discs) - Timothy Gane – guitar, organ, synthesizer, mixing; Lætitia Sadier – guitar, keyboards, synthesizer, trombone, vocals, mixing; Andy Ramsay – drums, synthesizer, mixing; Joe Watson – organ, Rhodes, synthesizer, vocals, Wurlitzer, mixing; Xavi Muñoz – bass, vocals, mixing. Additional contributors: Cooper Crain – drums, drum machine, synthesizer, mixing, engineering; Bo Kondren – mastering; Rob Frye – clarinet, flute; Ric Elsworth – glockenspiel, marimba, percussion, vibraphone; Marie Merlet – vocals.

After a 15 year vacation Stereolab is back with one of their warmest albums yet. Some refer to the band's “new-found” engagement and vocals. With Laetitia Sadier providing said vocals, well, she’s always been the heart core at the center of this band's ability to resonate. They are not exploring new sonic territory but re-affirming their firm place in the musical universe. JH

Marc Ribot – Map of a Blue City (New West Records) - Christina Courtin – viola (1, 4) - Pico Alt – violin (1, 4); Christopher Hoffman – cello (1, 4); Greg Lewis – Hammond B3 organ (3); Tony Lewis – drums (3); David Pilch – bass (3, 4); Doug Wieselman – flute & sax (4); Ted Reichman – accordion (4); Jeremy Gustin – drums (4); Ches Smith – glockenspiel (5); Eszter Balint – background vocals (6); Francois Lardeau – drums & percussion (9); Marc Ribot – all guitars & vocals.

Marc Ribot’s first vocal album! Wow. Unexpected. We all know Marc as one of the premier genre mixologists and technical guitar players on the planet, with nuance galore. This is more of an Americana singer-songwriter exercise. The tunes are well crafted and the accompaniment by all is tastefully expert. The lyrics deal with loss, and consequent disorientation inherent in loss. Some have suggested that the record is NOT singer-songwriter in nature but I would disagree. A fine outing with singing notable for its warmth & humanity. After all the confessional toning of the previous 8 songs the final track, Optimism of the Spirit, provides both a lyrical & musical coda to that which has gone before and brings us into more “familiar” Ribot territory with an extended instrumental workout suggesting a sort of catharsis from the preceding emotional turmoil. JH

Seun Kuti & Egypt 80 – Heavier Yet (Lays the Crownless Head) (Record Kicks) - Seun Kuti – (vocals/sax/keys); Anikulap Kuti Oluwaseun - (singer/sax/keyboard); Nicolas Timon Sebastien (trumpet); Kunle Justice (bass); Adebowale Adewunmi Osunnibu (baritone sax); Akinola Adio Oyebola (rhythm guitar); Balogun Cynthia Abimbola (dancer/singer); Adeniran Iyabo Folashade (dancer/singer); Fabrice Fila (tenor sax); Mario Orsinet (drums).

Fela’s son Seun continues the tradition with this engagingly energetic outing. The groove never ceases, driving the rhythms forward propulsively while also keeping the social & political issue to the fore. As Bootsy or was it George Clinton once said, and I’m paraphrasing here, "Shake the ass & the heart will follow." Strong contributions in both playing & production from both Damian Marley & Lenny Kravitz. JH

Laura Cannell – LyreLyreLyre (Brawl Records) – Laura Cannell – Sutton Hoo Lyre – An interesting exposition for Ms. Cannell, one of our leading musical creative forces. This time she sets her sights on the sounds of the Sutton Hoo Lyre, an instrument that was discovered in a burial site and thought to be owned by an ancient Anglo-Saxon King. She plays a copy of this 7^th century instrument and utilizing her usual (extraordinary) mix of imagination, creativity, looping & electronics, conjures a world long forgotten and/or perhaps never imagined. A magical journey. JH

Paquito D'Rivera & Madrid-New York Connection Band - La Fleur de Cayenne (Sunnyside Records) -  Paquito D'Rivera - clarinet & alto saxophone; Pepe Rivero – piano; Reynier Elizarde "El Negron" – contrabass; Georvis Pic – drums; Yuvisney Aguilar – percussion; Sebastian Laverde – vibraphone; Antonio Serrano - harmonica (2 & 8).

Afro-Cubano jazz is some of the most infectious on the planet and two of it’s biggest exponents join forces to titillate our musical sensibilities with this newest outing. Paquito and Pepe Rivero share most of the songwriting duties along with some beautiful interpretations of Ennio Morricone’s Cinema Paradiso & Ernesto Lecuna’s works. The music is sinuous and seductive, enticing the ear and getting the feet & hips working. JH

Miley Cyrus – Something Beautiful (Columbia Records) – Do artists as well known as Cyrus even need a review? Will it affect their sales or their fan base? That’s a rhetorical question. The answer is obvious. With that said, this album is publicized as a concept album of sorts. It’s self-indulgent and precious in equal parts and yet in spite of that………..I like it. Not love it. Miley is a great artist and capable of spinning you around and pinning you to the ground with her innate talent but this one feels like a slight misstep. Perhaps she spent too much time with Wayne Coyne & The Flaming Lips. What works for them isn’t even necessary for a pop star of Cyrus’ magnitude. Still it’s heartening to see Miley striving for the creative stars. JH

Neil Young & The Chrome Hearts – Talkin’ to the Trees (Reprise Records) - Neil Young – lead vocals, guitar, piano, vibraphone, production; Anthony LoGerfo – drums; Corey McCormick – bass, background vocals; Micah Nelson – guitar, background vocals; Spooner Oldham – keyboards, organ.

Is this one of Neil’s best records? C’mon. Ole Shakey has been around for a loooonnnng time and has released at least a dozen classic records. Is it always good to hear Neil singing about home and hearth and heart and love and shaking his fists at the societal & cultural ills. I’m glad he hadn’t needed to be invented and has blessed us with his insights time and time again. So glad you’re still with us Neil. Keep on rockin’ in the free world. JH 

Miguel Zenon – Vanguardia Subterranea – Live at the Village Vanguard (Miel Music) - Miguel Zenon – alto sax/compositions; Luis Perdomo – piano; Hans Glawischnig – bass; Heny Cole – drums.

Recorded at the venerable lower NYC jazz venue last September 20-21, this record jumps out at you from the first flurry of chords & notes. High energy abounds. Amazingly Miguel Zenon (one of our premier composer/saxophonists) insisted this gig and subsequent records be presented with minimal rehearsal in order to increase the tension & spontaneity.  As always with Zenon, the music pushes against established musical norms. He is a risk taker whose deep musicianship and innate talent require him to seek out constant shifts & changes in his music. He always makes it work and part of doing so is surrounding yourself with other musicians of high caliber and deep emotional commitment who challenge and enhance the shape of the music. This is deep and fearless music-making of the highest magnitude. JH

The Black Watch - For All The World (ATOM) - John Andrew Fredrick has crafted a spirited collection of “psych/jangle/shoegaze songs” on his first double album (25^th overall). The first album’s grungier vibe brings loud guitars and drums to the fore, but Andy Creighton’s strings and keyboards soften the blow allowing Fredrick’s melodic streak to shine. Highlights include the meditative ‘The Hook Stuck’, ‘Lord Marchpane’’s playful Hitchcockian touches, and a Jeff Lynne sheen on the plonky ‘Effective Forthwith. ‘Achilles Past’ feels like a killer single while ‘There’s A Place’ oozes spaceage bachelor pad grooviness! Misha Bullock brings his formidable talents to the spacier, more experimental second album (imagine a shoegaze Cure), with ‘Maybe Tomorrow Then’, ‘The Tents Around The Lake', and ‘Bright Blue Sun, Gold Sky’ worth a few extra spins. ‘Madcap Girl’ is the Cure on steroids, and ‘The Knife Cliché’ recalls the wonderful Montgolfier Brothers. A 2-for-1 treat you won’t want to miss. JFO

Flopsy's Dream - Pleasant Pudding (Podge) - It’s amazing what a few (million) hits on YouTube can do for your budding career! In the footsteps of  Beabadoobee’s meteoric rise to superstardom we have Tom Davies, aka Geowizard. If only a small fraction of his quarter of a billion followers beat a straight line to his latest release as Flopsy’s Dream he should be a happy camper indeed. This is bedroom pop in the style of Cleaners From Venus, Barbara, and the gentler side of the Elephant 6 Collective: smooth, dreamy atmospheres, mellow West Coast vibes (America, Beach Boys), and light-as-a-feather vocals (Beach House, Everything But The Girl, Belle And Sebastian).‘Going To Waste’ and ‘Never Be Annoyed Again’ fiddle with the whammy bar for trippy effects (although the latter’s radio transmissions and sonic dropouts belie the title), and the sleepy floater ‘Garden Trouble’ completes this breezy soundtrack for your next cross-country trek. JFO

Whitney's Playland - Long Rehearsal EP (Dandy Boy/Meritorio) - Whitney’s Playland expand to a quartet on this short (10 minute) 3-track EP following on from their 2023 debut album. The expanded line-up develops their lo-fi blueprint allowing the songs to explore more sonic spaces while remaining true to their short-and-sweet ethic. The 100-second title track is a power pop gem that floats effortlessly on Inna Showalter’s glistening vocals - a Go Go’s/Bangles burst of effervescent energy. ‘Only Daughter’ is based on a free-spirited neighbor of co-founder multi-instrumentalist George Tarlson. Its grungier approach sets fuzzy guitars against a 50’s-style ballad in support of the lyric about a nonconformist who doesn’t mind upsetting the suburban status quo. The five-minute ‘Talk’ drizzles multiple layers of fuzz guitars, glockenspiel, tambourines, percussion, and keyboards over Showalter’s dreamy vocals enabling the band to experiment with eerie effects to create a hypnotic dreamscape. JFO

July Edition

Noah Haidu – Standards III (Infinite Distances Records) - Noah Haidu – piano  Gervis Myles – bass 1,2,5,7,11 - Charles Goold – drums 1,2,5,7,11 - Buster Williams – bass – 3,4,8,9 – Billy Hart – drums 3,4,9 - Lewis Nash – drums – 6,8 – Peter Washington – bass 6 – Steve Wilson – alto sax 6

Noah Haidu’s third foray into the Great American Songbook is yet another romping delight. He swings and even manages to garner a production sound that harkens back to the heydays of Blue Note in the 1960’s. He’s a fabulously gifted rhythmic pianist, which in turn brings out the best in his collaborators. The core group of Gervis Myles on bass & Charles Goold on drums is augmented by sparkling guest turns by the above. JH

Kaze & Koichi Makigami – Shishiodoshi (Circum/Libra Records) - Satoki Fujii – piano – Natsuki Tamura – trumpet/vocals/composer 1, 3 Christian Prevost – trumpet/flugelhorn – Peter Orins – drums  Koichi Makigami – vocals/flute/trumpet Track 2 composed by all - Recorded live at La Malterie – Lille – France – May 13, 2024

This is some of the most dauntingly crazed music Kaze has released in their careers. Lunatic would be an apt description and yet………….it is lunacy in the most captivating & cartoonish manner. Expert musicianship coupled with the extended nutzy vocals and imagination of Koichi Makigami provide an entertaining listening experience. Be forewarned that it might take repeated listens but these folks are on a romp. JH

Lafayette Gilchrist & New Volcanoes – Move With Love – Morphius Records - Lafayette Gilchrist – Keyboard - Carl Filipiak – Guitar - Leo Maxey – Trumpet - Christian Hizon – Trombone - Anthony “Blue” Jenkins – Bass Guitar - Shaquim Muldrow – Tenor Sax - Kevin Pinder – Drum Set - Bashi Rose – Percussion – Recorded live 9/6/24 at Baltimore’s Club Car.

The core band is supplemented with numerous guests on this excellent rock/funk/jazz workout. L. G. is a great talent whose imagination is always wedded to a hard pumping groove even when he is being contemplative. I’ve loved his skills & music making for quite some time and think he should be more of a household name. JH

Willie Nile – The Greatest Yellow Light (River House Records) - Willie - electric guitar/piano - Jimi Bones - electric guitar/acoustic guitar/backing vocals - Johnny Pisano – bass/backing vocals - Jon Weber – drums - Rob Hyman (of The Hooters) – organ/accordion/piano/backing vocals - James Frazee – percussion.

Willie and his gang of rock and roll crusaders kick this album off in high gear with Wild, Wild World and keep the heat on with the very next track We Are, We Are and just when you’re ready for a little breather………… nope. Electrify Me keeps the pedal to the medal. Willie sounds like a kid here and the music and performances are kinetic and energizing. The title references letters from Van Gogh to his dedicated brother Theo about the wonders of the light in Lille which inspired Vincent to some of his greatest creations. Willie Nile returns the metaphorical favor by releasing one of his greatest records in a long career of milestones. At 77 Willie Nile still has a lot to say to America(ns) and inspires us all with his astonishing insights and vitality. I recall Willie Nile being dubbed one of the “new Dylans” back in the day and personally bristled at the unfairness of that designation. It cheapens the considerable talent he has always demonstrated in a career which at his creative heights (and there are many) has been on a par with the genius he has been compared to. Multiple guests contribute masterfully on this record. Paul Brady, Eric Bazillian, Larry Kirwan, Fred Parcells, Chris Byrne along with Waddy Wachtel & David Mansfield. An A++ record. JH

Suzanne Vega – Flying with Angels (Cooking Vinyl Records) - Suzanne Vega – lead vocals (all tracks), bass guitar (1) -  Gerry Leonard – production (all tracks), electric guitar (tracks 1–4, 6–10), acoustic guitar (5), background vocals (8), Catherine Russell – background vocals (tracks 1–6, 10) - Aaron Johnston – drums (tracks 1–6) - Daniel Mintseris – keyboards (tracks 1, 9) - Jeff Hill – bass guitar (tracks 2–10) - Ruby Froom – background vocals (tracks 7, 8) - Jamie Edwards – keyboards (tracks 3,5,6,7,8)

Vega, who turns 66 this month releases her first album in ten years. It is a showcase of her multitudinous talents as a songwriter, singer and astute observer of human nature and society. She questions the depths of human faults and somehow always finds a way back to (at least) hope for the solidity of our better selves. Hard, ain’t it hard but Suzanne Vega creatively finds ways of doing so. Gerry Leonard (Rufus Wainwright) produces to Vega’s strengths with elegantly spare arrangements. Her solo musicians especially background vocal foil Catherine Russell, a fine singer in her own right, support the songs on this record with passion & aplomb. JH

Daniil Trifonov - Shostakovich Discoveries: World Premiere Recordings & Rarities (Deutsche Grammophon) – Alexei Mochalov (bass), Andrei Pushkarev (percussion, work arranger), Kremerata Baltica (chamber ensemble), Nils Mönkemeyer (viola), Rostislav Krimer (piano), Daniil Trifonov (piano), Gidon Kremer (violin), Madara Petersone (violin), Georgijs Osokins (piano), Daniel Ciobanu (piano), Yulianna Avdeeva (piano).

If you’re a fan of Shostakovich and/or the unique nationalistic qualities of the Russian composers, then this recording is a must have. Rarely heard or performed pieces which were mainly recorded at the International Shostakovich Festival in Gohrisch Saxony, Germany, the only such festival devoted to the Russian master’s music in the world. Although Daniil Trifonov’s name is prominently displayed on the cover of this cd he is only featured on a few selections, although he is one of the world’s greatest pianists. This CD features short humorous cantatas, for bass voice and ensemble, piano excerpts, instrumental music from Shostakovich’s opera The Nose, & a chamber piece for piano and two violins. This is all brilliant music expertly and ardently performed by all. Highly recommended. My favorite classical release for the month. JH

Arcade Fire – Pink Elephant (Columbia Records) - Win Butler – lead and backing vocals, guitar, piano, keyboards, bass guitar, mandolin  - Régine Chassagne – backing and lead vocals, accordion, piano, keyboards, hurdy gurdy, recorder, drums, percussion  - Richard Reed Parry – guitar, bass guitar, double bass, piano, keyboards, synthesizers, organ, celesta, accordion, drums, percussion, backing vocals  - Tim Kingsbury – bass guitar, guitar, double bass, keyboards, backing vocals - Jeremy Gara – drums, percussion, guitar, keyboards.

Win Butler & Regine Chassagne are the motivating forces in this prominent indie. This is a somber underwhelming album in many respects. It’s variably interesting due to their inherent talent. The mixing of the album is a bit muddy and my question, considering their usual focus and ambition is why. For me a seemingly telling window into the band at this point in their career considering the allegations against Win was their recent SNL appearance in which Win seemed eager to project overly energetic involvement and Regine gave off an aura of couldn’t be bothered. Always an interesting band but not up to their usual high standard fare, which for most people would be a huge letdown but not particularly in this case. Arcade Fire set the bar high, but perhaps just not high enough this time out. JH

Arve Henriksen – Arcanum (ECM Records) - Arve Henriksen - (trumpet) -  Trygve Seim - (saxophone) - Anders Jormin - (double bass) - Markku Ounaskari - (drums, percussion).

This superlative new album by superlative Norwegian trumpeter/vocalist Arve Henriksen starts off with a little puzzle/pun. Nokitpyrt is Triptikon spelled backwards. A clear homage to fellow jazz great Jan Garbarek and his fabulous trio album from 1973. The remainder of the album is rife with reflectively contemplative takes on traditional and original tunes that although don’t overpower are still capable of overwhelming your emotions if you glide with the evocatively creative spirits being conjured by this trio of marvelous musicians. Although these musicians are releasing an album for the first time together they interact with the assurance of a well-oiled unit with years of experience. JH

Béla Fleck / Edmar Castaneda / Antonio Sanchez – BEATrio (Bela Fleck Productions) - Bela Fleck – banjo – Edmar Castaneda – harp – Antonio Sanchez – percussion – Banjo, harp & drums.

Who would’ve thunk it? Genius musicians probably. If your hearts in it the mind will follow and technique and instinct allow you to make improbable music not only probable but effervescently joyous. The virtuosity of this trio is on full display and integrated fully through each other’s sensibilities. Each player contributes compositionally and generously gives room to their compadres to shine brightly. More please. JH

Carolyn Wonderland – Truth Is (Alligator Records) - Carolyn Wonderland Electric Guitar, Lap Steel, Vocals, Whistling - Naj Conklin Electric and Upright Bass - Giovanni “Nooch” Carnuccio Drums, Percussion (2,3,6,7) - with Shelley King Harmony Vocals (2,3,4,5,6,7,8,10,11), Acoustic Guitar (4,5,7,8,9,11), ”Pop” (10) - Dave Alvin Electric Guitar (1,8,9,12) - Red Young B3 Organ (1,2,3,4,8,10,11), Piano (5,10,11) - Bukka Allen Piano (1,7), B3 Organ (7,9) Kevin Lance Percussion (1,11) - Ruthie Foster Vocals (2,3) - Marcia Ball Vocals (2,3,8), Piano (8) - Cindy Cashdollar Lap Steel Guitar (5,8) - Henri Herbert Piano (6,12) - Stuart Sullivan Percussion (7).

Dave Alvin produced this showcase for this John Mayall alumni. She is a powerfully evocative vocalist with enough passion in her throat for a dozen blues-women. A great guitarist, underrated composer and emotionally enthralling singer. She is augmented with a multitude of guest slots adding color & nuance to her core trio sound. Move over guys, this gal is back in town with blistering guitar, powerhouse vocals and smart, cogent songwriting. JH

Esthesis Quartet feat. Bill Frisell - Sound & Fury (Sunnyside Records) - Elsa Nilsson – flute - Dawn Clement – piano - Bill Frisell – guitar - Emma Dayhuff – bass - Tina Raymond – drums.

Who is this Frisell guy? He’s everywhere! Thank God for that. Always adding his uniquely textured sound. Not that Esthesis Quartet are in need of help. Beautifully nuanced music balanced with an evocative quietude. The first four tunes of this gorgeous recording are not listed as such but comprise a suite dedicated to mentor and genius musical artist Ron Miles, who passed from a rare blood cancer several years ago. This recording is a case study in free improvisation coupled with intellectual compositional exactitude. JH

Hedvig Mollestad Trio - Bees In The Bonnet (Rune Grammophon Records) - Hedvig Mollestad Thomassen / guitar - Ivar Loe Bjørnstad / drums - Ellen Brekken / bass.

Do you like your rock and don’t want to appear effete by admitting you also like jazz? Welllll, Hedvig Mollestad Thomassen has the antidote. Killer riffs and a sound like a barely in control buzzsaw, coupled with jazz improvisatory sensibilities and empathic musical telekinesis between the three players will sustain the hunger for jazz and metal heads alike. The opening cut sounds like a Texas blues trio on meth. These two women and & drummer Bjornstad are out to re-orient your world. Strap yerself in and enjoy the ride. JH

I’m With Her – Wild and Clear and Blue (Rounder Records) - Sara Watkins (violin, guitar and ukulele), Sarah Jarosz (banjo, mandolin, octave mandolin and guitar), and Aoife O'Donovan (keyboard and guitar).

The basic trio offers world class folk harmonies with music that whirls & shimmers around the listener offering a soothing balm to the hurricane of chaos surrounding our lives in these troubling times. Just the antidote. Ably supported by multi instrumentalist Josh Kaufman & drummer/percussionist JT Bates. Kick off your shoes, close your eyes and gently revel in this medicating, lovely music. JH

Jenny Hval – Iris Silver Mist (4AD Records) - Jenny Hval – production, recording, vocals, arrangements, keyboards, guitars - Håvard Volden – production, recording, guitars, bass, keyboards - Kyrre Laastad – mixing, recording, percussion on "To Be a Rose" - Christian Næss – drums, percussion, drum edits.

The title of this album is taken from a French perfume. The manufacture of scents involves transitions through many stages and this ties into these songs which deal with the states and/or stages that exist between people and groups. Jenny Hval is a questing artist who is always delving between the borders of creativity, relationships and at times ephemerality. One of the most imaginative & creative artists out there. I have seen her shows and enjoyed her music and interesting processes for years. JH

Kurt Rosenwinkel & Jean-Paul Brodbeck - The Brahms Project (Heartcore Records) - Kurt Rosenwinkel – Guitar - Jean-Paul Brodbeck – Piano - Lukas Traxel – Acoustic Bass - Jorge Rossy – Drums.

Everything Brahms in this exacting new set from Rosenwinkel & Brodbeck from romps through Hungarian Dances to his Intermezzo’s to excerpt from Symphonies Nos. 3 & 4, as well as some fine blendings of selected piano works. It all works beautifully. Textures, nuances and improvisatory imagination take us on a journey through Johannes' “songbook” opening up innumerable possibilities for more spirited and inventive syntheses of classical and jazz. It’s been done before most notably by Jacques Lousier and the MJQ and these musicians match and exceed those lofty benchmarks. JH

Laibach – Alamut (Mute Records) - Eber (after Elk Eber) - Saliger (after Ivo Saliger) - Dachauer (after Wilhelm Dachauer) – Keller - Laibach and the RTV Slovenia Symphony Orchestra are bolstered by the Iranian-based Human-Voice Ensemble, and two Slovenian ensembles—Gallina Vocal Group and the 60-piece AccordiOna accordion orchestra.

This unique band has enthralled me since I first encountered their deconstruction/reconstruction of Let It Be back in the 1980’s. I knew then that they were onto something quite profound and daring. Never a group to care too much about critical or even public opinion, these were artists willing to work uncompromisingly in the perfection of their vision and craft. This album is their most visionary yet and to my mind a masterpiece. They are collaborating here with Iranian composers Idin Samimi Mofakham and Nima A. Rowshan. The premise is based on a Slovenian novel from 1938 by Vladimir Bartol about a community of Ismaili forces in the 11^th century were led by Hassan-i-Sabbah and the book has allusions to the rise of fascism in Europe. Alamut, as it’s presented, is meant to draw parallels to the rise of anti-democratic political forces at play in the world today. Heady stuff. And brought off with aplomb by the composers and artists involved in this project. So far, my album of the year. JH

Little Feat – Strike up the Band (Hot Tomato Records) - Bill Payne – keyboards, vocals - Sam Clayton – congas, vocals, percussion - Kenny Gradney – bass - Fred Tackett – guitar, mandolin, trumpet, vocals - Scott Sharrard – guitar, vocals -Tony Leone – drums.

New slightly improved edition of this enduring band. Scott Sharrard is the new kid on the block and he re-ignites many of the qualities of what makes this band great. Superb musicianship; heartfelt craftmanship, and mostly an ability to synthesize a rootsy blend of country, blues, rock, cajun et al. Americana in manifest form and destiny. Not many bands could survive and thrive the loss of a near genius leader and rise from the ashes stronger and seemingly more focused over the decades. A Little Feat record is always a near guarantee of high quality and listenability. JH

Mark Pritchard & Thom Yorke - Tall Tales (Warp Records) - Thom Yorke - vocals, modular (tracks 1, 2, 5, 7–9), piano, EHX voice box (tracks 7, 10) - Mark Pritchard – production, mixing, synthesiser, Omnichord (track 5), drums (track 6, 7, 10, 11) Steve Christie – recording, vocal processing, harmonium (track 11), drums (track 4–6) - Josh Wermut – recording, bass (track 6, 11) - Louisa Revolta – vocals (track 8), clarinet (track 10) - Heather Grant – cor anglais (track 10) - Lucy Andrews – oboe (track 11).

Ho hum at a very high level. I love Radiohead & have always been a fan of Thom Yorke. He continues, surprise, surprise, exploring avenues of dissociation and anxiety, cultural & societal. Not much in the way of pop hooks, but if you like your minimalism and on a gold platter this is the music for you. I like it, don’t love it and it’ll find a way onto my playlist. Music to dream of murderbots by. Atmospherically and metaphorically of course. JH

Marshall Allen’s Ghost Horizons – Live in Philadelphia (Otherly Love Records) - Marshall Allen – alto sax/EVI – DM Hotep – guitar - Saxophonists include Immanuel Wilkins, James Brandon Lewis, Elliot Levin. Bassists - William Parker, Eric Revis - Luke Stewart -James McNew Drummers - Chad Taylor, Tcheser Holmes - Mikel Patrick Avery - Charlie Hall - Keyboardist Brian Marsella - Ade Hu Lukumi Bata Ensemble -experimental noise duo Wolf Eyes, - vocalist Tara Middleton, trumpeter Michael Ray, - trombonist Dave Davis all joined in various sessions.

Astrological pathways to the stars. Cosmological unexplored improvisations birthing neural networks too long dormant. We need this music in our lives. Marshall Allen past 100 years of age and still playing with the imagination and vigor or a man half his age; leads this rotation cast of acolytes to all things Ra-ian through their paces, embracing the avante Philly sound of Sonny Blount’s Arkestra.  Inspiring music and prolifically played by this terrific cast of creative musical characters. A ++ JH

Swans – Birthing (Mute Records) - Michael Gira – vocals, acoustic guitar, producer, art direction, design - Phil Puleo – drums, hammered dulcimer, flute, melodia, percussion, layout - Kristof Hahn – lap steel guitar, acoustic guitar, electric guitar, loops, backing vocals - Dana Schechter – lap steel guitar, bass guitar, loops - Christopher Pravdica – bass guitar, taishogoto, loops, sound effects, keyboards - Larry Mullins – Mellotron, keyboards, piano, synthesizer, drums, vibraphone, percussion, backing vocals - Norman Westberg – electric guitar, loops.

Guest musicians - Jennifer Gira – guest, backing vocals - Laura Carbone – guest, backing vocals - Lucy Kruger – guest, backing vocals - Andreas Dormann – guest, soprano saxophone - Little Mikey – guest, backing vocals -   Timothy Wyskida – drums on "The Merge."

It shouldn’t be surprising that a double cd of music on the themes of birth, rebirth and transcendence would be called Birthing or have as its main topics well………….. This is a band that adheres closely to their core  musical values, i.e., expansive sonic architecture and their balance of presenting darkness & light, beauty & ugliness. This music evolves slowly and perhaps that could be considered a negative by some who yearn for a brighter poppier environment, but for those who don’t mind being enveloped in a wash of minimalist oceanic swaddling, this may be the stuff for you. Warning: most song lengths go well into the double digits so any yearning for immediate cathartic release won’t be swiftly forthcoming. JH

Van Morrison – Remembering Now (Exile Productions) - Van Morrison – vocals, (all tracks); electric guitar (tracks 2, 4–6, 8, 10, 12–14), acoustic guitar (3, 7, 9, 11), saxophone (4, 5, 9, 10, 12) - Richard Dunn (Hammond organ), Stuart McIlroy (piano), Pete Hurley (bass), Dave Kearney – acoustic & electric guitars, lap steel, bouzouki, vocals – Paul O’Reilley – sax – Mike Barkley – trumpet - Colin Griffin (drums and percussion) – Alan “Stickey” Wickett – percussion – John McCullough – piano – Nicky Scott – bass – Eamon Ferris – drums – Seth Lakeman – violin -  Crawford Bell – Dana Masters – Kelley Smiley – Peter Wallace – Chantelle Duncan – Teena Lyle – Jolene O’Hara - background vocals - f. on Remembering Now; Fews Ensemble led by Joanne Quigley

A very strong late career surge for Senor Morrison. An attractive blend of styles supported by keenly incisive musicianship. Remembrance & appreciation are two solid attributes to build a piece of art around and Van the Man scores high with this one. JH

RYLI - Come And Get Me (Dandy Boy) - Not a typo for RIYL, RYLI is actually an acronym for the first names of the band (Rob Good, Yea-Ming Chen, Luke Robbins, and Ian McBrayer. Any band namechecking The Smiths, Camera Obscura, and Belle and Sebastian (I’d add Mazzy Star (‘Downtown’) and Low (‘Careful’)) already garners three stars before I even drop the needle. Ryli emerged from a songwriting partnership between Yea-Ming Chen and Rob Good and this debut follows on from our highly-praised single ‘I Think I Need You Around’, also included here. Chen’s emotional delivery can break hearts at a hundred paces and Good’s jangly accompaniment and the peppy rhythm section will have these ten tracks taking up permanent residence in your grey matter all summer.

I can’t get latest single ‘Medicine Speed’ off repeat, ‘Bad July’ has a bubblegummy Ramones groove, and the title track had me reaching for another box of tissues. Short (30 minutes) and sweet with nary a duffer in the lot, you’ll be hard-pressed to hear a more perfect pop album all year. JFO

Various Artists - I Wanna Be A Teen Again (Cherry Red 3CD)

This collection delivers four fun-filled hours of ‘80s American Power Pop from the obvious to the obscure. From Gary Valentine’s original demo of ‘Presence Dear’ and Todd Rundgren’s Rutles-esque ‘I Just Want To Touch You’ to surprising entries from Ramones and Jack Casady(!), this may induce a sugar overload along with its earworm melodies. There’re a few conspicuous absences (Greg Kihn, The Three O’Clock) and inclusions (Katrina & The Waves?), myriad female-fronted acts (M’n’M’s, Nikki & Corvettes, Shivvers) carry the (included) Go-Go’s/Bangles baton, and numerous local acts from the hinterlands get their long overdue recognition.

Cherry Red also expands the palette by frequently eschewing artists’ better-known hits for deeper tracks, unearths unreleased rarities, and celebrates tiny indie labels who championed the scene. Power pop artists frequently only released a single or two so this archival excavation is a treat for fans and newcomers alike. JFO

June Edition

Galactic & Irma Thomas – Audience with the Queen (Tchoup-Zilla Records) - Irma Thomas – vocals, Robert Mercurio – bass guitar, Jeff Raines – guitar, Richard Vogel – Hammond organ - Stanton Moore – drums - Ben Ellman – saxophone, harmonica - Eric Gordon – trumpet - Angelika "Jelly" Joseph – vocals

The album opens with a gospel infused take on Nancy Wilson’s How Glad I Am and if you harbor any doubts as to the reigning Nawlins’ soul queen’s vocal abilities, lay them to rest and risk a speeding ticket to get to her next local gig; wherever you may live. Quiet fire and searing soul dominate this sizzling album from the two Orleans legends. Irma & Galactic. If you’re a music lover of any genre, New Orleans music is somewhere embedded in your DNA and it’s scintillating stew of musical gumbo is exemplified here! JH

Joan Osborne – Dylanology Live (Womanly Hips Records) - Jack Petruzzelli - guitar; Andrew Carillo – guitar; keyboardist Keith Cotton; bassist Richard Hammond; drummer Aaron Comess. Slightly left of center takes on Dylan classics and if you’re wondering why the world needs a live follow-up to Osborne’s 2017 Songs of Bob Dylan; just listen. The sound is impeccable overall and the performances heartfelt and expert. Guest spots occur with Robert Randolph on The Ballad of Hollis Brown (also Jackie Greene on organ); Amy Helm on Buckets of Rain and Greene again on Tonight I’ll Be Staying Here with You. Osborne has proven once again that she is a superlative interpreter of Maestro Dylan’s oeuvre and she is ably assisted by her assured and masterly bandmates. JH

Joe Lovano – Homage (ECM Records) - Marcin Wasilewski – Piano; Slawomir Kurkiewicz - Double Bass; Michal Miskiewicz – Drums; Joe Lovano - Tenor Saxophone/compositions except 1; Zbigniew Seifert – Pianist. Wasilewski’s trio accompanies Joe Lovano on this exceptional set. It’s a return of favor as Lovano was the guest on the trio’s previous album. JL pens five of the six tunes here with the exception of the exquisite opening track Love in the Garden by Polish jazz luminary Zbigniew Seifert. Beautiful layering of sound and color by this quartet of musicians makes for ravishing listening. JH

John Zorn & Chaos Magick - Through the Looking Glass (Tzadik Records) - Brian Marsella - Electric Piano; John Medeski - Organ;  Kenny Grohowski - Drums, Percussion; Matt Hollenberg - Electric Guitar. – What a great eclectic album! One second I was dreamily nodding to modal jazz and then I was thrust forward into an infusion of rabid r&b funk and the next I thought the walls of perception had been invaded by a hybridized crew of errant Mothers of Invention and then I was drifting in a fog of nouveau classicism and …………… well, you get the idea. Eclectic and these guys are able to pull it off seamlessly. John Zorn’s music is multi-faceted and challenging and engaging and imaginative and breathtaking all at once. Easily one of the most prolific musical minds ever. JH

Krzysztof "Puma” Piasecki - Jazz & Rock Standards (Soliton Records) - Krzysztof “Puma” Piasecki – guitar; Zdzisław Kalinowski – piano, keyboard; Stan Michalak – electric double bass; Jacek Pelc – acoustic drums, percussion. – A powerful presentation of rock & jazz by this Polish core group with numerous guest slots by players you have probably never heard of. But it doesn’t matter. They hew to the spirit with gusty, gutsy playing and obvious love for their material whether it’s House of the Rising Sun, Whole Lotta Love or Birdland & John Coltrane’s Giant Steps & A Love Supreme. Somehow it all blends together for high end musical ear candy. JH

Marian McPartland – At the Peninsula Library 1972 (Liberation Hall Records) – Marian McPartland – piano; Joe Corsello – drums; Rusty Gilder – bass; Peninsula Library – Lawrence Long Island – December 10 1972 – A new release from the elegantly refined and esteemed Marian McPartland! Well, a poorly recorded concert from 1972 but who’s quibbling. One of the finest pianists & musical intellects to ever grace a stage & inform our ears. Ably accompanied by her sidemen she ripples imaginatively through a 78 minutes set of standards to which she brings ineffable charm. JH

Nellie McKay – Hey Guys Watch This (Omnivore Records) – Nellie McKay – vocals/piano – w. The Carpenter Ants: Michael Lipton / guitar & vocals; Ted Harrison / bass & vocals; upie Little / drums & vocals; Mark Bates / vocals. Unbelievably this is Nellie’s first album of new material in 14 years!!!! She is more than ably supported by a cast of fine musicians in this pastiche of styles from Great American Songbook to Broadway to singer/songwriter, old-timey, oh god, you name it this gal can get it across the finish line. There is always a hint of positive jazzy vibes in her writing and singing in spite of how downbeat the actual lyric may be. Hope is a thing named Nellie McKay. There are a few guests that add flavorfully stylish musicianship to this recording, most notably the great Tim Carbone on fiddle and Ron Sowell on harmonica with Alexi David adding depth on upright bass. This is refreshingly effervescent return to form. JH

Samantha Fish – Paper Doll (Rounder Records) - Samantha Fish – guitar/vocals; Ron Johnson – bass; Jamie Douglass – drums; Mickey Finn on keys. – In a tradition of hard driving power rock-blues trios stretching back to Hendix, Cream thru to ZZ Top, SRV & Double Trouble, et al, Ms. Fish’s new record is a statement. She has averred in interviews that she wanted to make a big guitar album AND sing her ass off. Mission Accomplished. She’s never sounded so assured and powerful. Always one of my favorite guitarists, bar gender or even genre, Samatha Fish serves up an instant classic. JH

Self Esteem – A Complicated Woman (Polydor Records) - Rebecca Lucy Taylor by any other name is Self Esteem. She crafts her art in the voice of a singular universality: woman speaking out against patriarchy. I also am revolted by the myriad ways men treat and denigrate women in multitudinous ways. Self Esteem pushed back to the precipice of preachiness but thankfully doesn’t fall over the edge. Strong, empowering music that borders on anthemic kitsch but still manages to pull you into her electro-pop sound world and world view. A solid B effort. JH

Patricia Kopatchinskaja - Exile (Alpha Classics) - Patricia Kopatchinskaja – violin; Thomas Kaufmann – cello; Camerata Bern. – Patricia Kopatchinskaja and friend explore works defined by exile whether physical removal from a place of birth to more esoteric but equally angst riddled feelings resulting from political, or other forms of persecution. There is a lot that fits into that category including money, discrimination et al. They examine works ranging from the traditional to well and lesser known composer including Schubert, Alfred Schnittke, Andrej Panufnik, Ivan Wyschnegradsky & Eugene Ysaye. This music can be eerie, effervescent, melancholy and unmoored. World class musicians and musicianship bring this program to full fruition with deeply thoughtful, energetic and committed performances. JH

Smokey Robinson – What the World Needs Now (Gaither Music Group) - Backing Vocals: Lena Byrd Miles, Mika Lett, Warryn Campbell; Bass – Cornelius Mims; Drums – Trevor Lawrence Jr.; Guitar – Paul Jackson Jr.; Keyboards – Michael Bereal; Percussion – Warryn Campbell. – 85 years old. I don’t know the status of the serious allegation against this musical royalty (and we probably won’t know for quite some time), but what I do know is that at his advanced age, Smokey Robinson has lost none of his musical assets. Okay the expressive vibrato is a bit more vibrato-ey but the overall quality of tone is there in abundance. I have never had a problem with “aging” voices as I feel what they may have lost in power and purity of tone is more than balanced by deeper humanity and expressivity. This is elegantly, assured modern production/old school soul with songs hand picked by Smokey for their messages of positivity, love and kindness. Just what the world has always needed more of. His core band & back up vocalists are top prime. Ear candy. JH

Tunde Adebimpe – Thee Black Boltz (Sub Pop Records) - I’ve never been a huge fan of TV on the Radio but main man Tunde Adebimpe’s solo record captivates me a bit more. This one is no exception. Lots of synths, lots of upfront vocals and ofttimes the sheer joy of singing wins you over even on the b cuts. A solid effort encapsulating personal loss, apocalyptic visions (warnings?), anger and  grief. JH

Willie Nelson – Oh What A Beautiful World (Legacy Records) – Willie Nelson singing an album’s worth of Rodney Crowell songs? Seems like a slam dunk. And it is. 90-plus Willie has released more than 150 albums. How many were among the best of his career? A lot. Count this one in. His grizzled-ness never gets tired. Willie is like Billie Holiday to me. He brings a world-weary wisdom & insight to everything he sings and no matter what emotion he is intent on conveying, you leave the room uplifted. I wish he could live and record another 92 years. JH

La Nouvelle Musique - La Nouvelle Musique (Fruits De Mer) - Joanna Beck and Ian de Silva offer “new music” with a cinematic twist - they call it “cinematic psychedelia” and incorporate folktronica and baroque orchestrations with Beck’s fluttering vocals and delicate piano accompanying de Silva’s acoustic guitar to enhance the mood. The haunting ‘The Mirror’ and intimate ‘Polestar’ establish a relaxing, quiet atmosphere that permeates the album. But there’s still room for the raucous ‘Catalonia,’ ‘New Blood’ features gorgeous girl-group harmonies with a Raveonettes vibe, and ‘Ballad Of A Broken Wing’ is tailor-made for some future soundtrack. I enjoyed the trumpet embellishments of ‘Spirit Level’, ‘Still Life’ is an upbeat hit-in-the-making, and da Silva’s nod to the Flying Burritos (‘Forest Fire’) and their wonderful Sandy Denny cover (‘Crazy Lady Blues’) suggest a very eclectic record collection indeed! ‘Epitaph’ is the perfect closer, with bells, soaring vocals, and a slightly melancholic lyric. JFO

Heavenly - Operation Heavenly (Skep Wax) - Heavenly’s final album (1996) came with expectations of finally breaking out to a wider audience. Less quirky with more of a bouncy Britpop accessibility (tempered with their punky, Riot Grrrl edge) the songs were catchy, funny, and filled with trainspotting cultural references. Tragically drummer Mathew Fletcher’s death four months before release scuppered a promotional tour and the album faded into oblivion. Which is a shame, as it’s chock full of energetic adrenalin rushes like ‘Trophy Girlfriend’ and the snarky amalgam of Blondie, X-Ray Spex, and Bow Wow Wow, ‘K-Klass Kisschase.’ The shoulda-been chart contender ‘Fat Lenny’ and delightfully euphemistic put-on (and put-down) ‘Snail Trail’ reveal a sharp wit and refreshing “you-go-girl” attitude. Toss in a galloping Gainsbourg cover and ‘Ladykillers’ doppelganger ‘Mark Angel’ and you’ve got one of the ‘90s’ great “lost” treasures. This reissue (on two members' imprint) appends two B-sides from their "Space Manatee" EP (Flamin’ Groovies and Jam covers) to add to the fun. JFO