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Ensemble Rémi-Jean Leblanc January 28, 2010Acadian-born and now based in Montreal, young bassist Rémi-Jean Leblanc quickly made his mark on the music scene. From the very beautiful Spectrum (Yannick Rieu) to L’Ascenseur (Carl Naud), via the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal and in many european tours, the talent is undeniably there. With many high-flying accomplices : Yannick Rieu on soprano sax, Chet Doxas on alto sax, Jean-Sébastien Williams on guitar, etc., he welcomes us to discover nine compositions, including one in three parts : T’en as eu assez, under the sign of aesthetics that reminds us of the universe of guitarist Pat Metheny. A modern presence under the sign of carefully orchestrated and multiple ambiances. To be listened to with a lot of attention to fully appreciate the talent of this very promising bassist/composer. |
Night Dreamer - Michel Dubeau January 28, 2010A very well known Montreal/QC jazz scene musician, saxophonist/flutist Michel Dubeau give us a tribute to his idol : Wayne Shorter. With three great musicians, such as the very fluid Andrée Boudreau on piano, we carefully thread monumental tracks : House Of Jade, Footprints, Night Dreamer, revisited and current. Far from a ambiance project, Night Dreamer is the work of a quartet of passionate musicians who render the beauty, often dark, of a great player. Available on 123jam.com or CDbaby.com |
Elisabeth Kontomanou - Siren Song January 14, 2010After the ups and downs of a singer's career, Elisabeth Kontomanou is reaping some of it's rewards. Having received this CD too late to present it in the end of the year favorites, it's better late than never. Elisabeth seems to have set aside heavy arpeggios and stylings for this brand of sumptuous jazz and chiseled arrangements. Supported by the Orchestre National de Metz and her quartet, the singer recalls some of the great names : Come Sunday - Mahalia Jackson, At Last - Etta James, I Put A Spell on You - Nina Simone, A Flower Is A Lonesome Thing - Billy Strayhorn, without repeating the fast and easy remake pattern. Slightly torrid, speechless accentuations and let's not forget, an incomparable symphonic orchestra. 2010 starts off in a beautiful way.
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Nick Ayoub Quintet - The Montreal Scene December 10, 2009No Christmas gadget, this is the real deal, and practically a miracle ! Thanks to Charles-François Cy, a true collector and jazz buff, this musical gem is eloquent of the past Montreal jazz scene. Teacher, friend to all, saxophonist Nick Ayoub got this brilliant quintet together in 1964 with a few musicians : Michel Donato, bass, Arts Roberts, piano, Émile « Cisco » Normand, drums and Alan Penfold, trumpet. Bathing in the Montreal theme, 8 great tracks, switching in between bossa-nova and some superb hard-bop. Timeless music up to today's standards, top musicians and a trip back in time where Montréal WAS jazz...! This CD is dedicated to Len Dobbin (1935-2009) - friend to jazz. |
Min Rager - First Steps (one of the seven best CDJazz of 2009) December 10, 2009Decidedly, the Montreal jazz scene just gets better and better. After a first CD that left us wanting more, young Montreal pianist and composer Min Rager does it again...with brio. Less academic and obviously maturer, First Steps has high notes. Eight musicians, amongst them her husband Josh Rager (piano), Kevin Dean (trumpet), Donny Kennedy (alto saxophone), her discourse is passionate : Nothing To Gain, Nothing To Lose, Persistence of Memory, Song Of Love where you'll hear much teamwork, subtle harmonic inventions and coherent piano playing. A talent you've got to share. |
Diana Panton Trio + 1 : Pink November 26, 2009A sensual voice, time-tested standards, this 3rd CD by Toronto singer Diana Panton is bound to make a lot of new fans. For those who are looking for a sense of peace, easy living and some nostalgia this is the gift to give in this Holiday season. In trio with : Red Schwager, guitar, Don Thompson, bass, piano, vibraphone, Diana Panton, voice, plus one, veteran trumpet and bugle player Guido Basso, reaffirms that simple can be great. In between these classics : Tea For Two, Wonder Why, Five Minutes More, an original creation : My Future Just Passed, Diana Panton does ballads like it's never been done before. A mainstream jazz artist to be admired. by Christophe Rodriguez |
Nozen - Live! au Upstairs (one of the seven best CDJazz of 2009) November 12, 2009Here's a CD with various doses of joy and positive excesses. Influenced but certainly not a copy, the four musicians dwelve in the spheres of saxophonist John Zorn and probably, as a tribute, a bit of the departed Roland Kirk. We'll never say it enough, a unedited live concert with a public is worth it's weight in gold due to the ambiance one can't hear in studio. High tension jazz led by masterful argentinian saxophonist Damian Ninenson, a perfect dose of free jazz, in brief, a great CD. |
Jean-Nicolas Trottier Quartet - Jean-Nicolas Trottier Quartet November 12, 2009In his thirties, trombonist, bandleader and arranger Jean-Nicolas Trottier is someone to watch out for. For those who despair of new talent, with some bite and a creative spirit with ideas that abound, this new CD is worth a second look. Working in a different type of formula, no piano but a saxophone with Alexandre Côté, a doublebass with Sébastien Pellerin and Michel Berthiaume on drums, the trombonist expresses his powerful vision : Street Meat, One Way, Half and Half, original, never rehashed with some free-jazz and a very energetic hard-bop. Open your ears and mind to this creation. |
Jean-François Groulx - Jean-François Groulx October 29, 2009Since his first solo adventure : Passages, pianist Jean-François Groulx has been involved on many musical projects. From Louise Forestier to Bori, from l'Aventure Boréale to Bruno Pelletier's Dracula his musical expertise has been put to good use. For this self-titled album, he goes back to his roots with a consistant brand of jazz, colored by images and tributes to Duke Ellington (For Duke) and Elvin Jones (Elvin’ s Mood). Eleven tracks where Jean-François Groulx plays in various moods : latin for Before Or After ; samba and airy for Irlande : impressionnist for Here and Now. When poetry and jazz meet. |
Oliver Jones Hank Jones - Pleased to Meet You (one of the seven best CDJazz of 2009) October 29, 2009Montreal pianist Oliver Jones is a very busy man these days. Guest of honor to many festivals, this recording presents the montréal jazz scene icon with legendary pianist Hank Jones. A musical treat paired with a bit of jazz piano history. In 2008, in a carte blanche concert at the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal, the pianist wanted to share the stage with Hank Jones. The ninety-year old pianist is the last in a family of high-profile jazz musicians : Elvin; drummer and member of the John Coltrane Quartet as well as Thad; trumpet player with Woody Herman and leader of the Thad Jones - Mel Lewis Big Band. This memorable 2008 concert is sure to please piano lovers as well as those who are drawn to the simplicity and good taste of jazz. Eleven tracks, mostly standards, the two friends exchange as a trio on : What Am I Here For ?, Groove Merchant, in duo : Makin’ Whoopee, Cakewalk, I Remember OP and joy, two tracks where Hank Jones solo lets it all out: Monk’s Mood followed by Lonely Woman. Consistant, warm, joie de vivre and the pleasure of playing. |
Carole Therrien - Vues du fleuve October 15, 2009Co-founder of the Effendi label, singer Carole Therrien is involved both in classical music as well as jazz. The soprano takes us a trip with Vues du fleuve in areas of Québec where one can find tranquillity, a feeling of liberty and some time off. Supported by bassist Alain Bédard and pianist Yves Léveillé who reveals himsefl a talented wordsmith, we hit the road. A beautiful trip in between jazz and popular songs with some tracks such as L’écho as a tribute to Alain Leliève and Le ciel se marie avec la mer by Jacques Blanchet. |
Jazz Culture Club - Immanence October 15, 2009Winner of the Jazz en Rafale New Talent Contest, Jazz Culture Club avoids academism. We can't expect younger musicians to emulate veteran musicians so Alexandre Dion, saxophone, David Gagné, bass, François Rioux, guitar and Pierre-Emmanuel Beaudoin on drums make their mark on their own terms. Their airy jazz reminds us of tenor sax Joe Henderson, and a saavy mix of departed guitarist Ed Bickert and guitarist Pat Metheny. Swing that fits in today's jazz trends. We need to support our future jazz musicians |
Amy Cervini - Love Fool October 1, 2009At 31 years old, american jazz singer Amy Cervini has quite a track record. On top of hanging out at NY's Knitting Factory and Blue Note, she's also played with guitarist Bucky Pizzarelli, vibes player Peter Apleyard, etc. For her second CD : Lovefool, very nice to listen to and slightly « sexy », she gives us quite a variety of songs with : Upside Down ( Jack Johnson), Lazin’ Around ( Fred Hersch), and the very beautiful : Sad Songs and Waltzes of the always engaged Willie Nelson. Something for everybody, Patsy Cline fans, go for it, supported by a fresh voice that moves just enough. |
Marianne Trudel and Lévy Bourbonnais - L’Embarquée (one of the seven best CDJazz of 2009) October 1, 2009A gifted pianist : Prix Étoiles Galaxie de Radio-Canada (FIJM 2007), leader of a quintet |
Carl Naud - L'Ascenseur September 17, 2009The fall jazz season is on and first off in the blocks is Montreal-based Effendi Records. On the starting line is guitarist Carl Naud with his precious collaborators : Rémi-Jean Leblanc on bass, Martin Auguste on drums, John Roney on piano and David Bellemare on the saxophone. A shot of jazz fusion, colorful playing, and for some sounds reminiscent of Chick Corea, Joe Zawinul and certainly departed keyboardist François Marcaurelle. Something new to take in nice'n'easy. |
Nicolas Chourot - First Landing September 3, 2009We often forget that many of the established musicians in our jazz scene come all over Québec. Nicolas Chourot, from Sept-Îles, birthplace of many guitarists, shares this new CD with us presenting his multi-faceted jazz. Influenced by Pat Metheny, Michel Cusson (Uzeb), Mike Stern and certainly Carlos Santana, this CD will please guitar fans as well as those who are into original rhythms. Even if it's harder and harder to find financial ressources for a first projet : First Landing, Nicolas Chourot has surrounded himself with some hard-hitters : the under-estimated trumpet and bugle player Ivanhoe Jolicoeur, keyboardist Yoel Diaz, and bassist Normand Lachapelle. On eleven tracks, music to drift and dream away, but mostly the pleasure of hearing a colorful guitarist. Keep in ming : Blue Crab Blues, Another Sunny Day and Mega What, in reference to Miles Davis. A little gift for the fall season that supports our local musicians... |
Brandi Disterheft - Second Side September 3, 2009Vancouver-born 2007 Juno winner bassist Brandi Disterheft has got new sounds that will raise eyebrows of jazz traditionalists. Ten powerfull tracks that nearly reach the whole spectrum of jazz styles, with an authentic sound creating moods and ambiances, an essential part of the creative process. From Sketches of Belief, in reference to Sketches of Spain to Combien de chances, Second Dawn and He’s Walkin, to name a few, a nice roadtrip in this month of September. A warm sound reminiscent of the late Ray Brown, a bit of the departed Oscar Peterson and a « slap », modern and with a hook. Nobody told us but she sings pretty good as well. Now you know. |
Baptiste Trotignon - Share August 20, 2009Young rising star of the jazz scene, Baptiste Trotignon is one of a dozen of pianists to watch out for. On a parallel path to his italien collegues : Mirabissi, Bollani, his approach is subtle and delicate as with these masters : Bill Evans, Chick Corea and certainly Ahmad Jahmal. In a collective spirit, Share welcomes saxophoniste Mark Turner, and the intriging bugle player : Tom Harrell. Eleven tracks that require some concentrated listening, a strong spirit, brilliant, and often quite sensitive. Great art. |
Natasha P Tri-O live August 20, 2009On August 12, young montreal singer Natasha P launched her first CD in a sizzling hot Dièse Onze. Winner of the Oscar Peterson Jazz Award 2003 (Concordia University) and the Concours Valleyfield en Blues 2001, she performed - with a bit of stress and courage, you gotta have some - fifteen songs from her jazz and blues repertory. Supported by super bassist Frédéric Alarie (Aznavour, Legrand) and pianist Chantale Morin, subtle and delicate in a Bill Evans manner, the jazz train was on it's tracks ! With a high voice and the air column a bit restrained, one has to hear her Speak Low version, Natasha P shared with us thanks to her communication skills, good rhythm and great stage presence, essential to connect with the audience. Even with the minor faults normal for a first production, let's watch out for Natasha P
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Valérie Cormier - Preview August 6, 2009Met at the last Festival International de Jazz de Montréal , young singer/keyboardist Valérie Cormier turned us on to Preview. A strong CD with a lot of horns, with no less than ten musicians and a lot of « groove ». With a St-Germain feel, an interesting and ernest voice and an adventurous sound on the edge of jazz. I'm sure we'll hear more about her in the future. Let's keep and open mind and give this young artist some attention. |
Reno De Stefano - Mimi's Dance July 23, 2009Well-known in the Montreal jazz scene, Montréal guitarist, composer and teacher Reno Di Stefano has finally released his second CD, Mimi's Dance. Drifting from modal jazz, which is real good thing, and some hard-bop, making it even better, he's surrounded by some of the best Montreal jazz musicians that top it off nicely. First of all on trumpet ; Kevin Dean, sharp, incisive playing with echoes of Clifford, metronome bassist Alec Walkington, Dave Laing on drums, the cornerstone of the band and quintessential pianist André White. Reno Di Stefano likes to work with his musicians and shares his ten compositions with intelligence, sensitivity and lenghty well-structured solos. A great gift and an inspiration for aspiring guitarists. |
Viva Nova July 23, 2009Nothing warms the chilly first half of this July better than a bossa-nova. Without breaking the rules as bossa-nova stands, Micaël Lüssi, Patti Payne, Jean-Philippe Fortier, Guillaume Larouche and Mathieu Royer of Viva Nova give it up thru fourteen Micaël Lüssi and Patti Payne compositions, all of which are sambas. With some good lounge overtones, the great instrumentation and voice are well done and are equally appreciated. Ideal for discovering the bossa-nova genre. |
Sylvain Provost - Désirs Démodés June 25, 2009Talking about guitars and new projects, Montreal-based record company Effendi has just released one of it's bigger acts. On the heels of saxophonist André Leroux, meet guitarist Sylvain Provost. This raffined guitarist presents Désirs Démodés, a play on words on one of Charles Aznavour's famous song titles, désir démodées (desire) instead of plaisir démodés (pleasure) giving us a suberb album, with a lot of finesse, where the guitar is master. Without taking away from his own style, we hear the influence of Pat Metheny and Wes Montgomery, Provost and his group : Guy Boisvert, bass, Alain Boyer, drums and Carole Therrien, vocals, give us some very creative music. Check out : Mood Funk, Poème Latent, Désirs Démodés and Frère jazz. |
André Leroux - Corpus Callosum June 11, 2009All-terrain sax player, founding block of many great bands and active member of modernist quartet Quasar, André Leroux has finally done it. After many years of maturing and few setbacks, the artist gives us something totally new. As a very personal and accessible tribute to the genius of Coltrane, André Leroux brings together complicity, hard work and thumpin' swing. Surrounded by many friends : Normand Deveault, piano, Frédéric Alarie, bass, Christian Lajoie, drums, and Alain Labrosse, percussions, the sax player sends out a strong message : Speed Machine, rafined and «bluesy» : Big Black Bird (to see a clip, click here) or explosive in the case of Elvin’s Mood. Don't pass on this one from a blue note gentleman. |
Freddie Hubbard - Without A Song - Live in Europe 1969 June 11, 2009Trumpet player Freddie Hubbard only made it once to the FIJM. Supported by Vic Vogel's big band, this was a disappointing concert mostly due to his bad health. To remember this jazz giant who left us this year, here's a CD that should be in your collection. The seven tracks (1969-1970), recorded live in England and Germany will give you goose bumps, as much by it's virtuosity as it's interpretation. Closer to Dizzy Gillespie & Lee Morgan, Freddie Hubbard give us a hard-bop worth listening : Without A Song , A Night In Tunisia are intense such as his Body and Soul. Magic, furious and as it should be. |
Julie Lamontagne Trio + Donny McCaslin : Now What May 28, 2009For many, the path to jazz leads to other possibilities. Julie Lamontagne is bandleader of singer Isabelle Boulay as well as one singer Bruno Pelletier's favorites with the Gros Z’Orchestre combo. In between her numerous projects, she writes and composes Facing Truth (2005), and now : Now What.
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Yannick Rieu - Spectrum (one of the seven best CDJazz of 2009) May 14, 2009Discreet saxophonist, endless traveler, Yannick Rieu is an accomplished and highly recognised instrumentist. With many ideas looking into the future, he's a musician interested in creating synergies such as this hallucinating new CD/DVD. Spectrum pays tribute to the music of Joe Zawinul and Weather Report, John Coltrane, of course and the unforgettable Steve Lacy. to find out more : yannickrieu.com
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Adrian Vedady - In Three Acts April 30, 2009Bassist with the magic touch, friend of all musicians and jazz club night owl, bassist Adrian Vedady presents his first CD : In Three Acts. For this friendly match under the sign of three acts, he's invited some of our best jazz players. For the first act, let's start with saxophonist Yannick Rieu, a player that breathes the soul of Rollins/Coltrane and drummer Phil Melanson, then, a second act with a lot of potential, arpeggio-blowing alto sax player Erik Hove, drummer John Fraboni, and Kate Wyatt on piano. The 3rd act includes guitarist Richard White and drummer Robbie Kuster, another solid trio. A beautiful CD that explores trends and styles, with a poised and impeccable Adrian Vedady. You've heard it already, this summer will be blue, like the note !
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Maynard Ferguson - Live from The King Cat Theater April 30, 2009Having left us in 2006 at the age of 78, the Montreal-born trumpet player Maynard Ferguson has influenced many trumpeteers. From his first gigs (almost still in shorts!) in the cabarets of St-Laurent St. in Montreal, his introduction in the Stan Kenton orchestra, his England period and his moment of "glory" thanks to the Rocky theme, the one who befriended the high notes of the trumpet always kept going. Even if YouTube has many of his performances, his recorded concerts are rare ! In 2004, at the age of 75, he presents a concert with his new Big Bop. Athletic jazz, blowing in good health and even after all those years Maynard Ferguson still gives us his high notes, supports young players and gives a class on longevity. For 15$, spend some quality time with a musician that out of kindness and devotion has kept alive the memory of jazz like drummer Louie Bellson, trumpeteer Clark Terry and Montreal bandleader Vic Vogel. Enjoy ! |
Normand Guilbeault Ensemble - Hommage à Mingus - Live At The Upstairs 2008 April 16, 2009With this long-awaited Charles Mingus (doublebass player and composer) tribute CD, the jazz season is on it's way. At the helm of this adventure, well-known Montréal doublepass player, bandleader and Mingus man Normand Guilbeault. Obviously not the first Mingus tribute CD, this particular recording is unique being live at the Upstairs, generating great synergy with the public and a few solos out of the ordinary. Multi-instrumentist/arranger Jean Derome says this in the CD linear notes : « One does not visit the world of Mingus like a group trip or a museum visit. You gotta dive in with body and soul ». Friends of jazz, this is worth the purchase. Great moments of emotion, great swing, a true heavy-hitting blues : Song With Orange and to top it off, the great Karen Young on two tunes : Weird Nightmare and Eclipse. Available May 5th. |
Lorraine Desmarais Big Band (one of the seven best CDJazz of 2009) April 2, 2009One of the Montreal jazz scene heavyweights, pianist, composer and Cegep St-Laurent teacher, Lorraine Desmarais celebrates 25 years of making music with this powerful new CD. Stepping away from the trio approach, she's just put the last touch to a brand new project : bringing to life her own big band with her own compositions. A real treat and more, as a big band led by a woman musician is rare thing, making this reviewer quite happy. In the works since 2006, parts and charts were reread, corrected, fine-tuned for some of best musicians from the Montréal/Québec jazz scene : Jean-Pierre Zanella, alto & soprano sax, André Leroux, tenor sax, Ron Di Lauro/Aron Doyle, trumpet, Dave Grott, trombone. Sharp arrangements and compositions, great swing, a well-balanced orchestral strenght, Lorraine Desmarais proves, if it's not done already, that she's a great lady of jazz with a sound all of her own that reminds us without copying these musicians : Bill Holman, John Lewis, Gill Fuller and Manny Albam. Friends of jazz, run to your record store to hear : Samba, Blues 12, New Morning and the great Bleu Silence. To probably hear and see at the 30th Festival international de jazz de Montréal. In stores April 7. |
Jazz Icons DVD Series 3 - Oscar Peterson "Live in 63, 64 & 65" (5th of 5) March 19, 2009A true jazz icon and a pianist with a style that stood out from other musicians, Oscar Peterson was a great ambassador that drew a large public unfamiliar with the language of jazz. At the peak of his art in betweem the mid 50s and 70s, this triple live recording in Sweden, Denmark and Finland is a true treasure. Surrounded by his eternal accomplices : Ray Brown, bass, Ed Thigphen, drums and two guests : Clark Terry, Roy Eldridge, on trumpets, here are fireworks that pianist Art Tatum, an inspiration to Oscar, would've loved. Also worth mentionning is the moving Hymn To Freedom with the great Clark Terry. |
Parc-X Trio (one of the seven best CDJazz of 2009) March 5, 2009As it's getting harder and harder to interest records companies in new jazz projects, on simple solution : do it yourself. Montréal-based, as the reference to Montréal street name indicates, Gabriel Pelletier, piano, Alex Lefaivre, bass and Mark Nelson, drums have decided to dive in and do it themselves. Friends of jazz, trust our three compadres who've learned their lessons well and even more. Good rhythm section, a sound reminiscent of Bill Evans, Herbie Hancock and why not : Ahmad Jamal. Nice work that's well represented in these 3 tunes : Fight First, Lalala et Beaumont Plaza.
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Marc-André Hamelin - In State of jazz / Hyperion February 19, 2009On the eve of great concert (Monday, March 9) at the Théâtre Maisonneuve of Place des Arts, where he was offered carte blanche, classic pianist Marc-André Hamelin give us jazz. Continuously searching for music from unknown composers or that deserve more than just a mention in dictionary, our brilliant pianist, gifted with an exceptional technique, leads us to discover the works of Kapustin : Sonate no2, Weissenberg : Sonate en état de jazz, Six arrangements of songs sungs by Charles Trenet and the writings of pianist Friedrich Gulda : Sonata No 2, Exercice, no 5, etc. As they say in the sports world, Marc-André Hamelin scores big ! Fabulous!
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The Warren Vaché - John Allred Quintet - Jubilation / Arbors Records February 5, 2009At first a trumpet player that switched to the cornet by fatality, Warren Vaché is one of those musicians that gives us traditional jazz with fun and intelligence. Cornerstone of the Concord record company and teacher at Rutgers University, he give us jazz with a lot of class that will neophytes and lovers of sharp riffs the great era of swing. In this live 2007 recording in the beautifull city of Berne (Switzerland), he strikes many chords with trombonist John Allred, giving us a song list composed of well-done standards. From the ancient Strike Up The Band (Berlin) to songs from Horace Silver : Song For My Father, Strollin, and these must-do songs : Old Devil Moon, My One and Only Love and They Can’t Take Away from Me, everybody's tastes are met. |
Jazz Icons DVD Series 3 - Rahsaan Roland Kirk "Live In 63 & 67" (4th of 5) January 22, 2009Not enough good could be said about a series that makes jazz fans happy and present an era of the blue note to a younger crowd. Out of this series that presents americans musicians in Europe, one was missing, the great Roland Kirk. Blind or not, this multi-instrumentist swings in between blues-laced jazz and well placed free accents, distancing himself from the stylings of Anthony Braxton. Accompanied by a few great names of europeen jazz : Daniel Humair, drums, Guy Pedersen, bass, George Gruntz, piano ; In 1963 in Belgium and in 1965 in Norway, this man invents and deconstructs on classic such as : There Will Be Another You, The Shadow of Your Smile and the very uplifting Three for The Festival, one of his compositions. Flawless happiness. |
Josh Rager - Time and Again January 8, 2009Let me start this first CDJazz feature of 2009 by offering you my best wishes to all and long life to come for Sortiesjazznights.com. This unique reference that connects all things that are jazz kicks off 2009 with a feature on pianist Josh Rager's new CD : Time and Again, to be launched January 16. This young man with eclectic ties (singer Johnny Scott's Quartet, trumpeteer Joe Sullivan's Big Band), gives us a powerful CD that reminds of the glory days of the Blue Note catalogue and mostly Bill Evans ! Albeit this honorable connection, Josh ain't no copycat and does his own thing working the rhythms and melodies with great know-how. A nice surprise that creatively bridges time periods and styles. |
Jazz Icons DVD Series 3 - Sonny Rollins "Live in 65 & 68" (3rd of 5) December 4, 2008Last icon of jazz, Sonny Rollins is a saxophone player one never gets tired of listening. In the Jazz Icons Series, there's a great Xmas gift suggestion — less than twenty dollars — here's Sonny doing it in the 1965/68 period. Mohawk style / shaved head, blowing that wind twice as hard as ever, in the footsteps of Coleman Hawkins and not giving in an inch. Thru timeless changes, his generous solos on key tracks such as There Will Be Another You, On Green Dolphin Street, St-Thomas or Oleo remind us how this musician can make the listener happy. |
Pink Turtle - Pop in Swing November 20, 2008According to the legend, the european septet Pink Turtle retired in 1969, victim of their own success. Being too young for the Flower Power era, yours truly is excited about this hot CD. Our band of seven give us great swing, thanks to Louis Prima, Louis Jordan and Gene Krupa. Doing it much better than the Lost Fingers, an easy task, with these pop tunes ; How Deep is Your Love, Logical Song, Highway To Hell ou Smoke on The Water (crazy!). Based on a 4/4 rhythm that the masters of swing would've loved, Pink Turtle is well worth it. Montreal Jazz Festival promoters, book them right away, you won't be disappointed ! |
John Roney - Silverbirch String Quartet November 6, 2008These days writing and research in time projects happen not very often. In collaboration with cellist Christian Robinson, Montreal pianist John Roney, well know by Dièze Onze customers, has launched Silverbich. The meeting of jazz and strings is nothing new and has had it's ups and downs. In this case, rest assured. as each of the 10 tracks are small jewels, just think of Cascara, Tristeza and American Osus knitted together like quilts. Friends of classical music, and yes, friends of jazz, rejoice ! |
Jazz Icons DVD Series 3 - Lionel Hampton "Live in '58" (2nd of 5 ) October 23, 2008This man had a great time sharing his very communicative swing, the essence of the blue note. Mostly a vibes player, but also drummer, pianist and singer influenced by Cab Calloway, Lionel Hampton was active till his eighties and then some. On his mostly europeen tours, he got together with great musicians and the best such as Clifford Brown, Charles Mingus, Walt Johnson & Freddie Hubbard. This '58 Belgium tour is a part of the history of swing. Communicative, sometimes excessively, driving his band like a powerful machine running on high octane; Hamp’s Piano Blues, Hot Club Blues, et I’ve Found A New Baby is the heart of a jazz that's long gone. |
Alain Bédard - Auguste Quintet : Bluesy Lunedi October 9, 2008A true musician at heart and key personality of the Montreal jazz scene, bassist Alain Bédard, who's also the founder of the Effendi label sometimes has enough time to...write and play his music! This discreet man, who "gives to spotlight" to younger musicians, writes like the great ones who don't give us a lot of notes just to please us. Bluesy Lunedi, his third CD, breathes Monk, Ahamad Jamal and of course, Jimmy Garisson, friend of Coltrane. Impressionism is the word ; Bluesy Lunedi, Double vue-suite, Monky, without being too complex. A brilliant CD by the man who likes to reflect and have fun at the same time. |
Jazz Icons DVD Series 3 - Cannonball Adderley (1st of 5 ) September 25, 2008Jean-Paul Sartre once said, let's be philosophical a moment : Jazz is like bananas, you have to eat them right on the spot. In this month of September, one of Falling Leaves, a great jazz standard, six DVDs of the famous Jazz Icons collection (Series 3) have just been released. This is great art, beautifully filmed within the standards of that period, in Europe where men of the blue note found refuge, sympathy and money, let's not forget. To start off this series of 6 DVDs ; Julian « Cannonball » Adderley, accompanied by his brother Nat (cornet), Yusef Lateef (tenor sax, flute), Sam Jones (drums), Joe Zawinul (piano) & Louis Hayes on drums. With humor, simplicity and professionnalism, they give us straight from clubs in Switzerland and Germany (1963), a savory mix of hard-bop, funk & bop that need no comments. For less than twenty bucks, this is a deal you should scoop up. |
Erik Hove - Soundclash September 11, 2008Originally from Vancouver now living in Montreal, alto sax player Erik Hove give us some geometric jazz. Soundclash, the group and debut title CD threads with finess and a bit in the tracks of NY alto sax Steve Coleman. Slightly acid, with funky and trip-hop roots, purists might be led astray while younger or greener ears, you decide, will discover a musical space where experimenting is allowed and encouraged. If the musical signature is a bit mecanical, blame it on the youth, the talent's there as well as the harmonics research. A cat to follow.
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Michel Benita and Manu Codjia - Ramblin' August 28, 2008Faithful Erik Truffaz accomplices, it's on the Ladyland Tour that Michel Benita & Manu Codjia cooked up the Ramblin’ project, an album that summons drifting and vagabonding. Right out of the Bob Dylan, Neil Young and traditional irish music songbooks, Michel Benita & Manu Codjia aren't shy about liking and playing folk music, revisited with their rich-in-harmonics-and-airy playing. Think of Pat Metheny's New Chautauqa or even Ry Cooder. Paying tribute to the music that gave him his first thrills, Michel Benita rethinks the folk genre approaching it as a jazz improviser and with much talent. To hear the full album via streaming visit his website. |
Chantale Gagné Trio - Silent Strenght August 14, 2008Rather discreet on the Montréal jazz scene, québécois pianist Chantale Gagné shares her time in between New York & Montréal. Sidewoman and composer, Chantale Gagné presents her first CD in trio. With Peter Washington on bass & Lewis Nash on percussions, Chantale Gagné can boast about being well accompanied. On ten compositions, Chantale wrote seven, as well as taking on Monk & Bill Evans compositions with brio. Kenny Barron introduces her on the CD's linear notes, with whom Chantale takes classes, Silent Strenght is a good first try for the pianist. Her playing might lack a bit of personality, but with time she'll stand out from her mentors and do her own thing. Check it out on her official website. Keep your eyes and ears on her...she's going somewhere ! chantalegagne.com
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Freddie Hubbard & The New Jazz Composers Octet - On The Real Side July 31, 2008Even after all the negative comments Miles Davis made about him, trumpet player Freddie Hubbard remains a model. Mixing rhythm and harmonic discoveries, the icon of hard-bop jazz is the last of a trilogy that was Lee Morgan, Woody Shaw & the man himself ! Althought tackled by lips problems, the 70 year-old Freddie still holds his ground, even if he's lost a bit of his ability to surprise us. Surrounded by hot new players like David Weiss, trumpet, Jimmy Green, tenor/soprano sax, Xavier Davis, piano, Freddie who chooses to play the flugelhorn, will rekindle passions and some debating. On The Real Side is the portait of a man who just doesn't give up. |
Alain Caron - Conversations July 10, 2008Alain Caron's latest CD is defined by it's sobriety and moderation. A far cry from ex-band UZEB's style of jazz-fusion that the bass player got us used to, so this intimist project is a good surprise. Conversations with the piano, bass & vibraphone, playing in a dialogue mode and not a confrontation. The melodies are soft, the ambiance intimate. Remarquably well self-produced, Conversations gathers a impressive turnout of local musicians such Lorraine Desmarais, Oliver Jones et François Bourassa. Listen to clips from Conversations on Alain Caron's website : |
Vic Vogel and the Jazz Big Band - Jim & Andy's June 19, 2008Sometimes you have to believe in miracles. In 1984, our famous Montreal band leader is playing in New York with his happy bunch and god knows how, a small record company tapes the event. Some great musicians are on the recording such as great tenor sax Zoot Sims and Philippe Dubois also known as...Phil Woods. Without being nostalgic, the level of this kind of playing doesn't come around much anymore : a ton of firepower, joie de vivre, a big band revving up like a Formula 1 engine and, as always, Vic Vogel is on top of it. A great find that never made it across the border. |
Madeleine Thériault Wray Downes - Eclipse June 5, 2008Singing teacher for fifteen years at Concordia University & founder of the McGill University female jazz choir, Madeleine Thériault finally dives in with her new CD Eclipse. Under the influence of the great Charles Mingus, Eclipse being the title track, Madeleine gives us consistent results and shows us her influences. Accompanied by heavy hitters Wray Downes on piano, Brian Hurley on bass, Frank Lozano at the sax, Michel Lambert on drums & Marc Villemure on guitar, she revisits ; Sister Sadie (Horace Silver), Little Niles (Randy Weston) and the Billy Strayhorn classic Lush Life. He christal clear voice influenced by the great John Hendricks, Eclipse is a nice surprise that avoids the pitfalls of academicism. |
Eric Khayat - Revoluciòn May 22, 2008At first glance the dark CD cover and pompous title of Revoluciòn is a turn-off but that changes a second time around. Composed mostly in Cuba, it presents itself as jazzy travel diary, a soundtrack with souvenirs, landscape, and the faint smell of cigars as a backdrop. Saxophonist, composer, musical director, Eric Khayat's career is witness to his taste for various musical styles and that he likes challenges. Eric Khayat is not part of current "jazz" scene, he's rather a free thinker, roaming from blues to pop and R&B. His writing might not be grounbreaking, but his arrangements serve his music well. Eric Khayat plays this music which is not his, cuban jazz, with melancoly and joy. Listen to clips on Eric Khayat. For each CD purchase, $1 is given to Equiterre |
Simon Legault Quartet – Misrememberings May 8, 2008Winner of the 2007 Jazz en Rafale New Talent Contest, the Simon Legault Quartet gives us Misrememberings, a first CD with a lot of maturity. On the Effendi label, Misrememberings confirms the talent of a guitarist and composer that will certainly get noticed on the canadian jazz scene in the coming years. Simon Legault 's playing brings us back to the classic stylings of Jim Hall, and somewhat Pat Metheny in his first days. This guitarist has a sense of dialogue, giving the talented sax player Annie Dominique a lot of room in a quartet formation where both soloists combine their melodies with natural ease. The quartet's main strenght is it's osmosis. Misrememberings is an all-night listen. For a first try it's masterfull and we love it. Hear clips on the the Effendi Records website. |
Brad Mehldau Trio Live April 24, 2008Very prolific in the last few years, Brad Mehldau was not as present on the music scene since his collaboration with Pat Metheny on his last two albums. In a seemingly back-to-the-roots mode, Brad Mehldau Trio Live is in the footsteps of the Art of the Trio serie with ex-drummer Jorge Rossy. Jeff Ballard is a more versatile player, but his playing having a sound that is closer to that of the previous drummer, leads the trio to it's path but loses the creativity which was the strength of Day is Done, their first collaboration. Brad Mehldau's playing gets more complex to the point of self-parody, as if the pianist was stuck in his own schemes, still continuously creating melodies in a unorthodox fashion, and in short amazing us without much renewal. Lovers of the pianist will miss his sense of adventure but will reconnect with the authentic Brad Mehldau, a pianist that has contributed greatly to bringing a new sound to the piano-bass-drums trio. |
Andrée Boudreau - Trio Andrée Boudreau April 10, 2008Here's and album that's soft and subtle. Andrée Boudreau in trio spells harmony, complicity, but above all femininity and sensitivity. The mood is velvety smooth and the musicians blend rightinto Andrée's compositions. A trio without ego, playing nothing excessive, soft, uncut, music with intelligence by talented musicians who want to play together and that have mastered the dynamics of a trio, something not easily done. Self-produced, this album's artistic direction is flawless. Listen to samples of this album on Andrée Boudreau's website at andreeboudreau.com |
Bright Road - Min Rager March 27, 2008Bright Road is certainly not a new CD in the market (2006) but this album is worth a second listen. Min Rager is a very talented young korean pianist straight out of McGill with a very promising future. Having a great sense of melody, Min Rager knows how to seduct her public with an intense and enriched jazz. Min Rager has a strong attack, yet soft like velvet as well as a great technique. This album's compositions show the maturity of the pianist who's quite present in the Montréal jazz scene having played many times at the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal as well as the OFF Festival de Jazz. Min Rager's first opus is a success, she doesn't overplay, which is great, and her styling is dynamic, strong & goes to the heart of the matter. To hear samples, go to ragermusic.com (whom she shares with husband Joshua Rager, also a pianist !) or on effendirecords.com. Min Rager: piano |
Frank Lozano Group - Colour Fields March 13, 2008Frank Lozano's track record is impressive. From Tito Puente to David Binney as well as Pat LaBarbera, Michel Donato and Oliver Jones, his numerous collaborations as sideman have led him to this first projet as leader. Back from New York where he spent a year in residence thanks to a Conseil des arts et lettres du Québec grant, Frank Lozano presents Colour Fields, that reminds us of a soundtrack in the making. Rugged jazz with dark colours, Frank Lozano doesn't try to seduce us, his music is uncut, always cerebral. A must, listen to Buciumeana in which Kim Ratcliffe trades in his guitar for a mandolin which leads us the country of Gustavo Santaollalla. Listen to samples on Frank Lozano or Effendi Records. by Éric Seguin |
Joel Miller - Tantramar February 21, 2008After a suprising Mandala in 2004, Joel Miller is back with Tantramar, an eclectic work of original compositions echoing various genres, such as folk, blues & electronic music. Joel Miller's music is inspired by many influences leading to a very personal and cohesive sound, quite different from the current local productions. Well supported by Kenny Bibace on guitar & Bill Mahar on trumpet but mostly by the one whose versatility makes it stick together, percussionnist Thom Gossage, Joel Miller takes us on a trip in his childhood New-Brunswick. Maybe a bit too many high notes but that's a matter of taste. by Éric Seguin |
Montréal Variations - Montréal Jazz Club Session 3 February 7, 2008What a great idea to unite 9 of our best pianists with their city as their main inspiration and the 4 notes that are "played" by the métro as their starting point. In a piano solo mode, Montréal Variations isn't totally «jazz» and Alain Lefèvre's presence is a sign that Analekta is aiming for a larger audience. The album's production is excellent, maybe over-refined sometimes lacking a bit of audacity. Nonetheless, the soft and subdued ambiances of Montréal Variation will give listening pleasure to the music lover. Here's and album you'll want to play on St-Valentines. |
E.S.T - Live in Hamburg January 24, 2008Recorded in November 2006 after their first opus Tuesday Wonderland, this live recording of this popular trio led by swedish pianist Esbjorn Svensson is a pearl. With this electrifying concert, Live in Hamburg confirms the maturity of a group that transcends the barriers in between jazz & rock by injecting post-rock sounds along the lines of Radiohead & Sigur Ròs. This pianist reminds us of Chick Corea, Keith Jarrett & Jan Johansson, another swedish pianist deceased at the young age of 38 in 1968. Magnus Ostrom's constant rhythm and the omnipresence of Dan Berglundet on bass give Esbjorn Svensson a creative space in which leads the pianist into intense solos. Many sound clips and videos are available on www.est-music.com. Until this soon-to-be-released in Québec double CD, you can order online directly from their label at : www.actmusic.com
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Insomnia - Matthieu Bélanger Quartet January 3, 2008Insomnia dives into a sleepless night full of surprises. Clarinetist Mathieu Bélanger takes us on a trip to a dreamy universe full of night moods. Mathieu Bélanger's playing is hypnotic, reminiscent of Mingus & Dolphy and equally modern. Claude Lavergne (drums) & Wayne Smith (bass) reply to Matthieu's solos, giving liberating performances on a cohesive album that will please jazz fans and newcomers. Andrée Boudreau on piano keeps it together with subtlety and discretion. |
Big City - Michel Morissette Quintet December 27, 2007Exceptional guitarist led by a great sense of rhythm and virtuosity, Michel Morissette give us an album in his own time, and that time beats really fast! Describing his music as comtemporary hard bop, Michel Morissette is electric. Having played many times at the Festival international de jazz de Montréal, Michel Morissette hasn't acquired the success he deserves. Surrounded by top musicians, he gives us a strong performance with brave solos. Can't wait to see this quintet playing live burn the place down ! Visit www.michelmorissette.ca on your way to the record store. |
Matt Herskowitz plays George Gershwin - Matt Herskowitz December 13, 2007Here's an album that might be in the classic as well as the jazz section of record stores. Pianist with a superb technique, Matt Herskowitz gives us a stunning version of the Gershwin repertoire to the point we forget he's playing solo, without orchestra. The inevitable Rhapsody in Blue sets the tone with brio, but it's his version of the Cuban Overture that gets our attention. Virtuoso and great arranger, Matt Herskowitz doesn't attempt to be compared to Erroll Garner, however the american pianist that makes Montréal his home takes on a challenge that commands respect. |
Sands of Time - Marianne Trudel December 6, 2007Marianne Trudel is a versatile pianist. After a first solo album (Espaces Libres) that drew attention, Marianne Trudel is back with a live album recorded at the Lion d'Or in the L'OFF Festival de Jazz 2006. Sands of Time is an inspired album presenting Marianne's various styles. Marianne switches from quintet to solo, from trio to quartet. Parcours, the 3rd piece of the album, is a true accomplishment with a solo by Rob Mosher on tenor sax that'll give you chills up your spine. The music of Sands of Time is full of liberty, with a contemporary sound that is keen to the pianist and composer who leads her group with brio on this completely self-produced album. Album excerpts are available on her official website at mariannetrudel.com. |
Pop Up - Jean-Christophe Béney November 29, 2007For his 4th album as group leader, saxophonist Jean-Christophe Béney treats us a pearl. Pop Up is the sum of 10 original compositions and high-profile band. Jean-Christophe's sax is incisive, the melodies pure yet the arrangements complex. Switching from the Rhodes to the acoustic piano, John Roney's playing is rich in harmonics, and nervous like drummer Greg Ritchie's playing, a sought-after drummer who travels and works in between New York and Montréal, and also heard playing with Christine Jensen, François Bourassa & Steve Amirault. André Dupuis on the percs bring an exotic touch to Pop Up, a CD with funky, pop and definitely jazz grooves. To hear samples, check out his website at jeanchristophebeney.com and please, accept Pop Up's! |
