New Jazz Albums Hitting the Shelves This Week | Oct. 21, 2024

Featuring New Releases from Steve Davis, Rich Halley 4, Peter Evans, and Holli Scott

Hey there. Happy Monday, all.

We’re kicking off with some exciting new releases hitting the shelves this Friday. Here’s a roundup of the new albums to watch out for this week.

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We See
By Steve Davis
Release Date: October 25, 2024

We See is a celebration of collective artistry, as trombonist Steve Davis leads an all-star sextet in a live recording at Smoke Jazz Club in New York. Captured on October 1, 2024, the album features an impressive lineup, including trumpeter Eddie Henderson, tenor saxophonist Ralph Moore, pianist Renee Rosnes, bassist Essiet Essiet, and drummer Lewis Nash. Davis, who has played with Jazz icons like Freddie Hubbard and Horace Silver, is no stranger to leading formidable groups, and this release continues that tradition. We See is part of Smoke Jazz’s series of live recordings that celebrate the club’s 25th anniversary. This recording stands as a testament to Davis’ remarkable career and his ability to bring together some of Jazz’s most revered voices for an unforgettable performance.

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Dawn and Dusk
By Rich Halley 4
Release Date: October 25, 2024

Rich Halley, a tenor saxophonist known for his powerful, unvarnished sound, continues to push the boundaries of his music with Dawn and Dusk. This album, recorded in Portland in November 2023, marks the seventh release by the Rich Halley 4, a tight-knit ensemble that includes Michael Vlatkovich on trombone, Clyde Reed on bass, and Carson Halley on drums. The band has been refining their dynamic chemistry over several years, and Dawn and Dusk further emphasizes the depth of their musical dialogue, blending composed material with improvisational bursts. Halley, with 26 albums as a leader under his belt, continues to be lauded for his forward-thinking approach to Jazz, and this album is poised to be another exciting chapter in his discography.

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Extra
By Peter Evans
Release Date: October 25, 2024

Trumpeter Peter Evans is set to make a bold statement with Extra, his debut for We Jazz Records. Featuring an explosive trio with Petter Eldh on bass and synthesizer, and Jim Black on drums and electronics, the album was recorded at the legendary Namouche Studios in Lisbon in August 2023. Evans is known for his virtuosic playing and adventurous spirit, and this new project continues that tradition with eight original compositions that push the boundaries of ensemble performance. Evans' collaborators, Eldh and Black, have long been trusted partners, and their intense interplay fuels the album’s energy. Tracks like Freaks and Boom are sure to ignite listeners with their fiery intensity, while more experimental pieces like The Lighthouse add a dimension of unpredictability. Together, they offer a sonic journey that explores new creative territories.

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Weather and Weeds
By Holli Scott (featuring Tal Cohen and Jamie Oehlers)
Release Date: October 25, 2024

Vocalist Holli Scott returns with Weather and Weeds, her second album, showcasing her captivating ability to blend beauty and introspection. Opting for a stripped-down trio format, Scott collaborates with long-time musical partners, pianist Tal Cohen and saxophonist Jamie Oehlers, creating a rich, intimate atmosphere. The absence of bass and drums allows the trio to fully explore the emotional nuances of Scott’s compositions, with Cohen and Oehlers adding tasteful, understated accompaniment. Tracks like Back the Way We Came stand out for their haunting melodies and evocative lyrics, capturing the listener's attention with a raw, emotional depth. This album reinforces Scott’s place as a compelling storyteller and a thoughtful arranger, offering a deeply engaging listen that lingers long after the music fades.

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I hope you all have a fantastic week ahead.

Happy listening!