What's New · Nov. 2024 RoundUp
Discover the Hottest October Releases
Hi there,
Welcome to this month’s What’s New! October has brought us a rich, vibrant array of albums that bridge the classic and the contemporary—from the timeless brilliance of Charlie Parker to the boundary-pushing sounds of Ben Wendel and Sylvie Courvoisier. It’s a beautiful reminder of jazz’s boundless spirit.
💡 Pro tip: This edition is packed with so much goodness it might get clipped by your email. If you miss anything, just click the title to read the full newsletter on our blog!
So, what’s in store? With October’s rhythm of new releases, we’ve curated a roundup of favorites—from soulful classics to avant-garde explorations—that reflect the depth and diversity jazz fans have come to love. Our What’s New playlist will be live on the blog early next week, and trust us, it’s worth the wait!
We hope this month’s picks bring new discoveries and deepen your appreciation for the artists driving jazz to new heights.
Iris
Álvaro Torres
Label: Independent
Recorded: July 2023, Trading 8s Recording Studio
Released: October 4, 2024
Madrid-born pianist Álvaro Torres delivers a love letter to New York’s Jazz scene with Iris, a luminous trio album that features the venerable Barry Altschul on drums and John Hébert on bass. Each piece is steeped in Torres’s experiences in the city—from the bustling rhythms of West Harlem to the contemplative reimagining of his early tune Old and New. His composition Iris grooves with a bluesy warmth, while Carla’s Ingredient nods playfully to the late Carla Bley. Altschul and Hébert bring layers of spontaneity and depth, their improvisational prowess allowing Torres’s melodies to blossom freely. The set wraps with the exuberant You Dig?, echoing Hébert’s signature phrase and underscoring the trio’s adventurous rapport. Iris captures Torres’s gratitude for Jazz’s storied traditions—and his fresh, modern immersion in it.
Legend of e’Boi (The Hypervigilant Eye)
Darius Jones
Label: AUM Fidelity
Recorded: The Bunker Studio, Brooklyn
Released: October 4, 2024
Darius Jones's Legend of e’Boi (The Hypervigilant Eye) marks a profound new chapter in his long-running Man’ish Boy saga, a nine-part epic exploring Black identity and resilience. This trio album pairs Jones’s incisive alto sax with Gerald Cleaver’s deft drumming and Chris Lightcap’s resonant bass, weaving a deeply emotive journey through five original compositions and an arresting arrangement of the traditional prison song, No More My Lord. The music feels urgent and ritualistic, touching on themes of Black mental health, trauma, and healing through community. Harmony Holiday’s evocative liner notes and art by Risha Rox and Jesse Ponkamo add depth, echoing Jones’s commitment to melding music, art, and storytelling. Legend of e’Boi is as much a statement on survival and collective healing as it is a triumph of sonic innovation.
Melt All the Guns II
Devin Gray feat. Ralph Alessi & Myslaure Augustin
Label: Rataplan Records
Recorded: June 18, 2024, Mazzive Sound, Biel, Switzerland
Released: October 4, 2024
Devin Gray’s Melt All the Guns II dives into politically charged waters with a fresh trio lineup: veteran trumpeter Ralph Alessi and the spirited newcomer Myslaure Augustin on piano. Gray’s compositions are rhythmically complex yet melodically inviting, balancing protest and introspection across 11 tracks. Opening with the hard-hitting East Berlin 2024, the trio oscillates between groove and rumination, peaking in pieces like No More Walls, where Alessi’s stirring lines meld seamlessly with Augustin’s nuanced touch on the Steinway. Tracks like Political Technology showcase Gray’s textural and rhythmic ingenuity, drawing on his experience as a solo percussionist to fuel the ensemble’s dynamism. This album’s subtle yet determined stance on social justice speaks to the need for thoughtful, “handmade” art in an AI-driven world. Melt All the Guns II is as much about connection as it is about resistance, offering listeners an uncompromising musical dialogue.
Polarity 3
Ivo Perelman & Nate Wooley
Label: Burning Ambulance
Recorded: June 2024, Park West Studios, Brooklyn, NY
Released: October 4, 2024
In Polarity 3, Brazilian tenor saxophonist Ivo Perelman and American trumpeter Nate Wooley delve even deeper into the art of musical conversation. The third album in their ongoing duo series, this recording captures an intuitive exchange, a dance between two voices that are both complementary and contrasting. Perelman’s saxophone lines are fluid and expansive, veering into the unknown, while Wooley’s trumpet, equally unrestrained, shapes each track with its textured, sometimes starkly muted tones. Four stands out as a playful walk along a winding path, where each musician wanders into sonic foliage, only to rejoin in perfect sync. Recorded with a minimalist approach by Jim Clouse at Brooklyn’s Park West Studios, Polarity 3 offers an intimate soundscape that’s strikingly lyrical, abstract, and at times hauntingly sparse. For fans of avant-garde Jazz, Perelman and Wooley’s dialogue here is essential listening, a testament to the power of partnership in improvisation.
Propulsion
Rempis/Adasiewicz/Abrams/Damon
Label: Aerophonic Records
Recorded: August 31, 2023, at Elastic Arts, Chicago
Released: October 4, 2024
On Propulsion, saxophonist Dave Rempis leads a tightly-knit ensemble of Chicago’s Jazz heavyweights, capturing the resonance of their shared histories and personal connections. The quartet brings together vibraphonist Jason Adasiewicz, bassist Joshua Abrams, and drummer Tyler Damon, each a mainstay of the city’s boundary-pushing scene. Far from a “supergroup” vibe, the album showcases a profound coherence honed through years of collaboration—Rempis and Abrams' work dates back to the 90s, and Adasiewicz returns here after a five-year recording hiatus, drawn out in part by Rempis’s invitation. Propulsion is more than just a record; it’s a tribute, documented on the night Rempis wrapped up his influential weekly series at Elastic Arts after two decades. Its closing whispers mark both an ending and the launch of a new phase in Chicago’s improvisational landscape.
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Seeing
Tord Gustavsen Trio
Label: ECM Records
Recorded: October 2023, Studios La Buissonne, Pernes-les-Fontaines
Released: October 4, 2024
In Seeing, Norwegian pianist Tord Gustavsen returns with longtime trio partners Jarle Vespestad (drums) and Steinar Raknes (double bass) to explore a quieter, deeply introspective side of his music. Marking his 10th release on ECM, Gustavsen brings a distilled vision to this album, centering on what he calls the “efficiency of shape.” The trio performs five original compositions, along with reimagined chorales by Bach, a traditional Norwegian hymn, and the poignant Nearer My God, to Thee. Rather than lengthy solos, Seeing relies on the trio’s rich interplay, with Gustavsen’s delicate gospel-infused touch and Raknes’s resonant bass weaving a gentle, conversational counterpoint. A standout moment is Seattle Song, a tune that emerged in a spontaneous sound check moment, capturing the trio’s intuitive cohesion. With its restrained beauty, Seeing captures the essence of Gustavsen’s mature, contemplative style.
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The Dark, the Light, the Grey and the Colorful
JD Allen
Label: Savant
Released: October 4, 2024
On The Dark, the Light, the Grey and the Colorful, tenor saxophonist JD Allen dives into themes of cultural memory and introspection, joined by long-time collaborators Gregg August and Ian Kenselaar on acoustic and electric basses, and Nic Cacioppo on drums. Together, they weave a sonic tapestry that’s both grounded in Jazz tradition and laced with a modern, almost cinematic sensibility. Allen’s saxophone is as expressive as ever, carrying traces of blues and avant-garde influences, while August and Kenselaar’s electric basses (enhanced by a Moog Minifooger Ring Modulator on select tracks) add an intriguing texture, particularly on compositions like Cutting (Room B) and Happiness (Held is a Seed). With Allen’s deft improvisational touch and the rhythmic dynamism of his rhythm section, the album explores contrasting moods, taking listeners from reflective to spirited, with a depth that speaks to the nuanced stories these musicians share.
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Understory: Live at the Village Vanguard
Ben Wendel
Label: Edition Records
Recorded: November 4–6, 2022, at the Village Vanguard
Released: October 4, 2024
In Understory: Live at the Village Vanguard, saxophonist Ben Wendel captures the pulsing energy and storied history of Jazz’s most iconic venue, the Village Vanguard. This is Wendel’s first live album, and he’s brought together an exceptional rhythm section: Gerald Clayton on piano, Linda May Han Oh on bass and vocals, and Obed Calvaire on drums. The quartet navigates Wendel’s compositions with palpable chemistry, balancing his progressive sound with the Vanguard’s classic Jazz roots.
Recorded live, Understory is a masterclass in dynamic interplay, as Wendel weaves effects into his saxophone lines, pushing his band’s boundaries and exploring themes of artistic tension and identity. From Clayton’s shimmering piano runs to Oh’s supple basslines and Calvaire’s inventive rhythms, the quartet’s virtuosity shines through every track, making the record an exhilarating listen. Standout arrangements, like the reimagined On The Trail, bring new life to the live Jazz album format, carving out Wendel’s place in the Vanguard’s legendary lineage.
Irrational Thinking Of The Subject
Tungu
Label: Burning Ambulance
Released: October 4, 2024
Sergey Senchuk’s latest project under the moniker Tungu, Irrational Thinking Of The Subject sees Senchuk collaborating remotely with 15 avant-garde musicians from around the world, including notable figures like Noël Akchoté, Phil Minton, and Gebhard Ullmann. The album blends elements of electronic music, free improvisation, and experimental soundscapes, creating a truly global and eclectic effort. Tracks like Acquaintance and Exploration of the Inexplicable feature diverse sonic textures where electronic and acoustic elements coexist and interact. Senchuk’s background as a bassist and electronic musician is evident throughout, with his use of electronic processing adding depth to the rich improvisations. This album offers a unique and forward-thinking sound, providing an unpredictable journey for listeners willing to dive deep into its abstract material.
Rising
Mavis Pan
Label: s/r
Released: October 4, 2024
Award-winning pianist, composer, and vocalist Mavis Pan presents Rising, an album born from a period of emotional and physical upheaval. Co-produced with acclaimed woodwind player Ted Nash, the album features an all-star lineup including Nash (tenor saxophone, flute, clarinet), Geoff Burke (alto and soprano saxophones, alto flute, clarinet), Mark Wade (bass), Jared Schonig (drums), and Pan herself on piano and voice. Rising is a mosaic of Pan's life experiences, from the elation of live performances in Saudi Arabia to the heartache of her father's stroke in Taiwan. The title track, composed during a flight to Saudi Arabia, and other pieces like Falling and Seventy Times Seven, reflect Pan’s journey of resilience and hope. Blending Jazz with Western Classical music and global influences, Rising is a poignant exploration of overcoming adversity and finding strength in community.
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Sui Generis
Mark Masters/Tim Hagans
Label: Capri Records
Released: October 4, 2024
On Sui Generis, composer-arranger Mark Masters spotlights trumpet virtuoso Tim Hagans in a Jazz “concerto for chamber orchestra.” Featuring nine original compositions, the album showcases Hagans with the Mark Masters Ensemble, which includes Nicole McCabe on alto saxophone, Jerry Pinter on tenor and soprano saxophones, Dave Woodley on trombone, John Dickson on French horn, Jeff Colella on piano, Chris Colangelo on bass, and Kendall Kay on drums. Masters’s intricate, detailed arrangements serve as vehicles for Hagans’s unique harmonic language and forward-thinking sound. Tracks like The Stoic and Deep Pools highlight Hagans’s tart, expressive trumpet, while the ensemble’s spontaneous interplay adds depth and excitement. Sui Generis is a celebration of artistic collaboration and inventive Jazz composition.
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Urban Chaos
Nick Adema
Label: ZenneZ Records
Released: October 4, 2024
Nick Adema explores the turmoil of life and loss in the modern city with Urban Chaos. Following the passing of his mother in late 2022 and his relocation from Ottawa to Amsterdam, Adema captures the overwhelming yet anonymous nature of urban life. The album features Adema on trombone, Joy Shechter on piano, Azubike Onwuka on bass, and Chen Har-Even on drums, with special guest Noah Preminger on tenor saxophone. Supplemented by a string quartet, vocalist Liva Dumpe, guitarist Ante Medic, and alto saxophonist Micheal Murray, Urban Chaos showcases Adema’s expansive use of electronic processing and his compositional imagination. Tracks like Acquaintance and Exploration of the Inexplicable reflect the album’s theme of moving on and finding solace amidst chaos.
Guilty!!!
Jeff Lederer
Label: Independent
Recorded: June 21, 2024, at Samurai Hotel
Released: October 7, 2024
In Guilty!!!, saxophonist and genre-bending visionary Jeff Lederer crafts a bold, genre-splicing work that confronts the intersections of truth, lies, and political theater. Flanked by a fearless ensemble—Kirk Knuffke on cornet, Bob Stewart on tuba, Matt Wilson on drums, and Curtis Hasselbring handling electronics—Lederer uses his compositions to dissect the fractured narratives of modern discourse. The album crackles with political speech samples, weaving brass-heavy textures with electronic pulses that feel at once visceral and pointedly ironic.
With Mary LaRose’s searing vocals on selected tracks, Guilty!!! channels the raw energy of a Jazz protest piece. Blending traditional Jazz improvisation with avant-garde electronics and a bit of dark humor, Lederer’s latest release is a searing critique, as innovative as it is confrontational.
Ancestral Numbers II
Jason Robinson, Michael Dessen, Joshua White, Drew Gress, Ches Smith
Label: Playscape Recordings
Recorded: August 23-25, 2023 at Firehouse 12, New Haven, CT
Released: October 8, 2024
The second release in Jason Robinson's Ancestral Numbers series features a quintet version of his Janus Ensemble. With Robinson on tenor and soprano saxophones and alto flute, Michael Dessen on trombone, Joshua White on piano, Drew Gress on bass, and Ches Smith on drums and glockenspiel, the album delves into themes of genealogy and family history. Recorded over three days at Firehouse 12, Robinson’s introspective compositions lead the way, offering a sound meditation inspired by the influence of his grandmother. The album's thoughtful interplay and textured layers make it a compelling listen, blending improvisation and structured forms to explore the mysteries of ancestry and identity.
All Species Parade
Jenny Scheinman
Label: Royal Potato Family
Released: Oct. 11, 2024
Jenny Scheinman, acclaimed violinist and composer, returns to her roots with All Species Parade, an expansive double album homage to Humboldt County’s Lost Coast. Accompanied by Carmen Staaf on piano, guitar legends Bill Frisell, Nels Cline, and Julian Lage, as well as Tony Scherr on bass and Kenny Wollesen on drums, Scheinman crafts a deeply textured musical landscape. Recorded at The Bunker in Brooklyn, the album features long-form compositions like Jaroujiji, The Sea Also Rises, and the title track. Scheinman's playing, rich in Jazz and fiddling tradition, is complemented by Frisell's exploratory wisdom, creating a multi-textured network of sound that captures the awe of nature. This album not only showcases Scheinman’s compositional prowess but also her ability to evoke a charged relationship with the natural world.
Ashes to Gold
Avishai Cohen
Label: ECM
Recorded: Nov. 2023, Studios La Buissonne, Pernes-les-Fontaines
Released: Oct. 11, 2024
Avishai Cohen's Ashes to Gold captures some of the most intense and concentrated music he and his ensemble have ever recorded. Accompanied by pianist Yonathan Avishai, bassist Barak Mori, and drummer Ziv Ravitz, Cohen's compositions reflect the deep tensions of our troubled era. The album opens with a dramatic five-part suite that begins with Cohen on flute, establishing a serene atmosphere soon disrupted by the intensity of the music. With influences from kintsugi, the Japanese art of repair, Ashes to Gold navigates emotions from rage to melancholy. The melodic directness of The Seventh, composed by Cohen's daughter Amalia, adds a consoling contrast to the suite’s complexity. This album stands as one of 2024’s most important musical statements.
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Blues Blood
Immanuel Wilkins
Label: Blue Note
Released: Oct. 11, 2024
Saxophonist and composer Immanuel Wilkins delivers his third studio album, Blues Blood, a meditative offering inspired by his Philadelphia childhood and the legacies of our ancestors. Co-produced by Meshell Ndegeocello and featuring Micah Thomas on piano, Rick Rosato on bass, Kweku Sumbry on drums, and vocalists Ganavya, June McDoom, and Yaw Agyeman—alongside special guests Cécile McLorin Salvant, Marvin Sewell, and Chris Dave—Blues Blood is Wilkins’ most ambitious project to date. The album marks the first time Wilkins includes vocalists, each tapping into different aspects of heritage. From the tranquil opener Matte Glaze to the expansive Afterlife Residence Time, the album navigates themes of community, ancestry, and the duality of 'blues' as optimism and 'blood' as generational ties.
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Inventions: A Suite of Improvisations
Russ Lossing
Label: Songs
Recorded: May 2023 – January 2024, Square Water Studios, PA
Released: Oct. 11, 2024
Russ Lossing's Inventions: A Suite of Improvisations is a fully improvised collection of piano solos, capturing the essence of spontaneous creation. Recorded on his own Steinway grand piano at home, Lossing finds the ideal setting to articulate complex yet coherent music. The six-part suite, selected from sessions spanning eight months, showcases Lossing's deep connection to the instrument and his lifelong dedication to improvisation. From the deliberate development in Invention II to the rapid, evolving phrases of Invention III, each piece invites listeners into a uniquely personal and reflective sonic journey. Mastered by Paul Wickliffe and produced by Samuel Blaser, this album stands as a testament to Lossing's unparalleled improvisational prowess.
Our Walk: Live At Nocturne
Ben Markley
Label: Independent
Released: Oct. 11, 2024
Pianist and composer Ben Markley pays homage to his residency at Denver’s premier Jazz club, Nocturne, with Our Walk: Live at Nocturne. This live album captures the essence of Markley's two-month residency, showcasing his original compositions performed without overdubs or studio edits. Joined by Steve Kovalcheck on guitar, Wil Swindler on alto saxophone, Domi Edson and Matt Smiley on bass, and Andy Wheelock on drums, the ensemble’s chemistry shines through. Tracks like Her Strength and Beauty and the title track Our Walk highlight Markley's creative evolution, inspired by his wife. This album is a testament to the power of live performance, collaboration, and the deep connections forged on stage.
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Dreaming
Marc Copland
Label: innerVoice Jazz
Released: Oct. 11, 2024
Originally an alto saxophonist, Marc Copland found his calling as a pianist and bandleader. On Dreaming, he features the same quartet as on his prior release Someday (2022), with Robin Verheyen (soprano, tenor), long-time collaborator Drew Gress (bass), and Mark Ferber (drums). The album has a road-tested feel, with challenging originals and inventive arrangements of decades-old selections. The opener, Eronel, captures an upbeat, quirky air, while Copland's LST builds into a solid bop vehicle. Gress’s Dreaming and Figment add a mysterious, tense flavor, and Verheyen’s contributions like Destination Unknown showcase post-bop energy. The album closes with a fresh take on the standard Yesterdays, highlighting the quartet’s dynamic interplay and Copland’s inventive approach.
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Human Activity: Dream of the Possible
Brad Shepik
Label: Shifting Paradigm
Recorded: March 28, 2022, at Dolan Studios, New York, NY
Released: Oct. 11, 2024
Brad Shepik's Human Activity: Dream of the Possible is a ten-movement meditation on climate challenges, aiming to inspire action for sustainability. Composed and premiered in 2021, this work is a response to that year's climate report and Shepik's previous composition, Human Activity Suite (2007). Featuring Shepik on guitar, Bulgarian tambura, saz, and banjo, the ensemble includes Layale Chaker on violin, Amino Belyamani on piano, Sam Minaie on bass, and John Hadfield on drums and percussion. The album weaves global stringed instruments and rhythms with Jazz into a narrative of hope. Recorded at Dolan Studios, the album showcases Shepik’s innovative approach to addressing climate issues through music, creating a compelling and hopeful auditory experience.
Portrait
Samara Joy
Label: Verve
Released: Oct. 11, 2024
Samara Joy returns with Portrait, a bold and ambitious follow-up to her previous releases. Co-produced with Brian Lynch, the album features Joy’s eight-piece touring band, including Jason Charos (trumpet), David Mason (alto saxophone, flute), Kendric McCallister (tenor saxophone), Donavan Austin (trombone), Connor Rohrer (piano), Felix Moseholm (bass), and Evan Sherman (drums). Recorded at Van Gelder Studio, the album includes intricate arrangements like You Stepped Out of a Dream and a stunning a cappella introduction to The Reincarnation of a Lovebird. Joy’s powerful vocals and the band’s tight performance shine throughout tracks like No More Blues and Day By Day. Portrait is a remarkable showcase of Joy’s evolving artistry and the chemistry of her seasoned ensemble.
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Atlas Of Sound - Quila Quina - -40°17’38.21”N, -71°45’68.48”S
Elsa Nilsson and Santiago Leibson
Label: Ears & Eyes
Released: Oct. 11, 2024
Two years after her inaugural offering from Atlas of Sound, flutist and composer Elsa Nilsson teams up with pianist Santiago Leibson for Quila Quina -40°17’38.21”S, -71°45’68.48”W. This album captures the essence of the Patagonian region of Argentina, inspired by Nilsson’s writing residency at Project Oasis. The music reflects the landscape’s flora, fauna, and cultural heritage, with compositions like The Wind From The North Comes From The West and Waters Cold and Deep. Recorded at Estudio Doctor F, the album features Nilsson on flutes and Leibson on piano. Quila Quina is a musical exploration of nature and its intricate details, creating an immersive listening experience.
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Sanctuary
Jason Anick & Jason Yeager
Label: Sunnyside
Released: Oct. 11, 2024
Sanctuary, the second album by violinist Jason Anick and pianist Jason Yeager, explores the concept of sanctuary through a richly textured musical journey. Featuring a core quintet with Billy Buss on trumpet and flugelhorn, Greg Loughman on bass, and Mike Connors on drums, the album also includes guest appearances by Jason Palmer, Edmar Colón, and Naseem Alatrash. Tracks like Futures Past and Nearness of Now reflect on time and memory, while Persecution and Farewell address themes of displacement and refuge. With compositions that blend their distinct voices, Sanctuary offers a profound meditation on finding solace amidst chaos, showcasing the duo's deep musical connection and evolution.
Seven Days
Mauricio Morales
Label: s/r
Released: Oct. 11, 2024
On Seven Days, bassist-composer Mauricio Morales presents seven distinctive compositions for sextet, showcasing his sophisticated shifts in mood and musical structure. The album features Edmar Colón on saxophone, Horace Bray on guitar, Ido Meshulam on trombone, Luca Mendoza on piano, and Jongkuk "JK" Kim on drums. Morales composed these pieces while stuck in Mexico due to a Visa renewal snafu, channeling his sense of alienation into a cohesive suite of pieces. Tracks like Monday: Wishful Thinking and Saturday: A Self-made Prison reflect his creative process and emotional journey. Seven Days is a dynamic and engaging album that highlights Morales' evolving artistic identity and the strong, persuasive voice of his music.
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The Stunt Man
The Headhunters
Label: Ropeadope
Recorded: Aug. 2023, at Hyde Street Studios, San Francisco
Released: Oct. 11, 2024
The Headhunters return with The Stunt Man, an impressive successor to their 2022 album Speakers in the House. Featuring Mike Clark on drums, Bill Summers on percussion, Donald Harrison on alto saxophone, Kyle Roussel on keyboards, and Chris Severin on bass, the album includes seven selections, with five originals and two ambitious covers. Embraceable You showcases Harrison’s slinky alto sax, while Wayne Shorter’s ESP features spirited tandem playing with guest tenor saxophonist Craig Handy. The meticulous mixing by Chris McGrew and mastering by Michael Romanowski ensure true-to-life sonics. Tracks like Attitude of Gratitude and The Sand Castle Headhunter highlight the group's dynamic energy and expert musicianship, making The Stunt Man a compelling listen.
Bleed
The Necks
Label: Northern Spy
Released: Oct. 18, 2024
Australian minimalist-jazz trio The Necks return with Bleed, a single 42-minute composition that delves into the sublime language of stillness. Recorded by Chris Abrahams on piano, Tony Buck on drums, and Lloyd Swanton on bass, the album masterfully captures the beauty of decay and space. Opening with four solitary piano notes and a profound silence, the piece gradually introduces guitar, marimba-like instruments, and bass, creating an intricate interplay of motifs. The return of the piano with an ascending melody surprises with its song-like quality, contrasting the preceding sparseness. Bleed is a testament to the fullness of quiet and the significance of each sound, making it a compelling entry in The Necks' vast body of work.
Center of Gravity: Live At Smalls
Dwayne Clemons
Label: Cellar
Recorded: Sept. 7, 2023
Released: Oct. 18, 2024
Dwayne Clemons, the Copenhagen-based trumpeter, returns triumphantly to Smalls with Center of Gravity: Live at Smalls. Joined by an impressive band featuring Amanda Sedgwick on alto saxophone, Aaron Johnson on tenor saxophone, JinJoo Yoo on piano, Paul Gill on bass, and Taro Okamoto on drums, Clemons explores a dynamic range of compositions. The album opens with Barry Harris’s Burgundy, showcasing Clemons’s skillful interpretation. Sedgwick’s original Center of Gravity and Shadow and Act highlight her unique compositional voice. Clemons’s arrangements of classics like Honeysuckle Rose and I Cover the Waterfront bring a fresh perspective, while the band’s chemistry shines through every track. This live recording is a vibrant testament to the enduring power of Jazz and the collaborative spirit of live performance.
Grande-Terre
Roy Hargrove’s Crisol
Label: Verve Records
Recorded: Early 1998
Released: October 18, 2024
Roy Hargrove’s Crisol returns with Grande-Terre, a long-lost gem recorded in 1998 following their Grammy-winning debut, Habana. This never-before-heard album captures Hargrove’s masterful trumpet and the band’s dynamic fusion of Jazz, funk, Afro-Cuban rhythms, soul, and bop. Featuring Jacques Schwartz-Bart on tenor saxophone, Sherman Irby on alto saxophone, Frank Lacy on trombone, Ed Cherry on guitar, Larry Willis on piano, Gerald Cannon on bass, and Willie Jones III on drums, with Changuito and Miguel ‘Anga’ Diaz on percussion, and Julio Barreto on drums and vocals. The album’s first single, Priorities, offers a glimpse into the brilliance of a group that redefined Latin Jazz. Grande-Terre stands as a testament to Hargrove’s innovative spirit and lasting influence in the Jazz world.
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Little Big III
Aaron Parks
Label: Blue Note
Released: October 18, 2024
Aaron Parks returns to Blue Note with Little Big III, his third studio album with his quartet, Little Big. Featuring Greg Tuohey on guitar, David Ginyard Jr. on bass, and Jongkuk Kim on drums, the album showcases Parks’s thematic and layered writing style. Tracks like Flyways, Locked Down, and Delusions highlight Parks’s ability to blend melodic and percussive elements, while ballads like Heart Stories and Ashé reveal a more reflective side. Contributions from Tuohey and Ginyard, with compositions like Sports and Little Beginnings, add to the album’s diversity. Co-produced by Blue Note president Don Was, Little Big III is a testament to the quartet's cohesive and dynamic sound.
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Parlour Games
by Tim Berne and Michael Formanek
Label: Relative Pitch
Recorded 1991
Released: October 18, 2024
Saxophonist Tim Berne and bassist Michael Formanek are set to release their long-awaited album Parlour Games, recorded live at The Parlour in 1991. This album captures the duo at a pivotal moment in their collaborative journey, years before their first official duo album Ornery People in 1998. Featuring compositions by both musicians, the six-track album showcases their early exploration of angular rhythms, dense harmonics, and unpredictable interplay. Berne’s intense, knotty compositions and Formanek’s versatile, melodic instincts create a dynamic improvisational landscape. Parlour Games offers a glimpse into the early dynamic of a partnership that has become a cornerstone of contemporary Jazz, making it a must-listen for fans of free Jazz and improvisational music.
The World Is On Fire
Isaiah Collier & The Chosen Few
Label: Division 81
Recorded: May 9, 2023, at Soundmine Studio, Chicago, IL
Released: October 18, 2024
The World Is On Fire by Isaiah Collier & The Chosen Few takes an outward look into society, reflecting on themes of economic upheaval, systemic racism, and the relentless fight for justice. Joined by Julian Davis Reid on piano, Jeremiah Hunt on bass, and Michael Shekwoaga Ode on drums, Collier’s compositions are reinforced by harrowing real-life news clips. Tracks like The Time is Now and Trials and Tribulations emit a clarion call for awareness, featuring poignant solos and evocative melodies. The album pays tribute to individuals like Sandra Bland, Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor, and George Floyd, serving as a requiem for countless lives lost and injustices unacknowledged. With contributions from guest musicians, The World Is On Fire is a passionate plea for awareness, understanding, and change, urging listeners to play a role in crafting a more just and equitable world.
To Be Other-Wise
Sylvie Courvoisier
Label: Intakt Records
Recorded: Feb. 27-28, 2024, at SWR Studio, Freiburg im Breisgau
Released: October 18, 2024
Swiss-born pianist and composer Sylvie Courvoisier returns with To Be Other-Wise, her second solo album, nearly two decades after her first. Known for her fusion of European chamber music and New York’s experimental Jazz scene, Courvoisier's compositions reflect her constant curiosity and imaginative breadth. Recorded at SWR Studio, the album includes dedications to influences like Thelonious Monk, Geri Allen, Olivier Messiaen, and Igor Stravinsky. Tracks like Ballade for My Dad and Twisting Memories showcase her ability to balance abstraction with detailed precision. Courvoisier’s adventurous spirit and disciplined approach result in a collection that’s both intense and playful, highlighting her prowess as one of the most remarkable pianists of our time.
to the eyes that remain soft
by Samantha Kochis
Label: s/r
Recorded: May 24, 2024, Brooklyn, NY
Released: October 18, 2024
Samantha Kochis presents to the eyes that remain soft, an album birthed from a period of physical and emotional recovery from chronic illness. Unable to play the flute, Kochis turned to the Appalachian dulcimer, a new instrument symbolizing her healing journey. The album, recorded with Selendis Sebastian Alexander Johnson on vibraphone, Anna Abondolo on bass, and Joshua Mathews on drums, explores themes of breath, pain, observation, and hope. Tracks like the ethereal opener and the evocative second piece depict the sensations of pain and subtle observation. The final track projects hope for better dreams, offering a poignant musical exploration of resilience and recovery.
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Object of Unknown Function
Brandon Seabrook
Label: Pyroclastic
Recorded: Nov. 2023, Circular Ruin Studio, Brooklyn
Released: October 18, 2024
On his second solo album, Object of Unknown Function, Brandon Seabrook layers vintage banjos, electric and 12-string guitars, and cassette recordings into an uncategorizable hybrid. Known for his aggressive improvisation, Seabrook creates an eccentric sonic world with six- and twelve-string guitars, a tenor banjo, a cassette recorder, and a 1920s six-string guitar banjo. Tracks like The Historical Importance of Eccentricity, Gondola Freak, and Melodic Incidents for an Irrational World showcase his unique approach, blending repetitive riffs, mantra-like rhythms, and found sounds. Produced by David Breskin and recorded by Ben Greenberg, the album is a fascinating exploration of Seabrook’s unconventional musical vision, making it a compelling listen.
Quartets
Kevin Sun
Label: Endectomorph Music
Recorded: 2024
Released: Oct. 18, 2024
Saxophonist Kevin Sun marks a decade in New York’s Jazz scene with Quartets, a double LP showcasing his growth as an artist. Featuring two different quartets, the album includes original compositions performed by longtime collaborators Dana Saul (piano), Walter Stinson (bass), and Matt Honor (drums). The second half introduces new ensemble members Christian Li (piano) and Kayvon Gordon (drums), blending originals with unexpected covers. Recorded in 2024, the album captures Sun’s creative exploration and boundary-pushing artistry. Quartets celebrates his journey and offers a vibrant reflection of his evolving musical vision.
Shapes and Sounds
Yonathan Avishai Trio
Label: Jazz&People
Released: Oct. 18, 2024
Five years after his album Joys and Solitudes, pianist Yonathan Avishai returns with Shapes and Sounds. Featuring his long-standing trio with Yoni Zelnik on double bass and Donald Kontomanou on drums, the album celebrates a decade of collaboration. Avishai’s sensitive and spare touch shines through eight pieces, including six original compositions and two covers. Tracks like When You're Smiling and La Mélancolie highlight Avishai’s ability to blend elements of swing, blues, and pure musical texture. Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Julien Bassères, Shapes and Sounds is a delicate and poetic exploration of Jazz, reminding us why Avishai is one of the most touching pianists on the contemporary scene.
The Queen of Kings County
NIKARA presents Black Wall Street
Label: Switch Hit Records
Released: Oct. 18, 2024
The Queen of Kings County is a deeply personal homage by vibraphonist, vocalist, and composer Nikara Warren to her hometown of Brooklyn, New York. The album blends Black American Music with Brooklyn’s rich Caribbean heritage, featuring feel-good melodies, improvisation, rap, and electronic elements. With Craig Hill on tenor sax, Alonzo Demetrius on trumpet, Hailey Niswanger on various woodwinds, Corey Sanchez on guitar, Axel Tosca on keyboards, Parker McAllister on electric bass, David Frazier Jr. on drums, Tamir Shmerling on upright bass, EJ Strickland on drums, Kenny Barron on piano, and J.Hoard on vocals, the album reflects the spirit and resilience of Brooklyn. Each track echoes the voices of Black music icons, making The Queen of Kings County a tribute to the city’s vibrant and complex cultural landscape.
Dawn and Dusk
Rich Halley 4
Label: Pine Eagle Records
Recorded: Nov. 18-19, 2023, at Jackpot Recording Studio, Portland, Oregon
Released: October 25, 2024
Dusk and Dawn is the latest recording by Rich Halley, featuring his long-standing quartet with trombonist Michael Vlatkovich, bassist Clyde Reed, and drummer Carson Halley. This album, the seventh release by the Rich Halley 4, showcases a blend of Halley compositions and spontaneous improvisations, highlighting the depth and unique interaction of the group. Recorded in Portland, the album captures the quartet’s dynamic energy and creative synergy. Tracks like Spherical Aberration and The Hard Truth emphasize Halley's robust tenor sax, while pieces like The Return and After Dawn demonstrate the quartet's seamless interplay. Dusk and Dawn continues Halley's legacy of producing smart, brawny music that stands at the pinnacle of contemporary Jazz.
Extra
Peter Evans
Label: We Jazz
Recorded: Aug. 5-7, 2023, at Namouche Studios, Lisbon, Portugal
Released: Oct. 25, 2024
Peter Evans makes his We Jazz Records debut with Extra, featuring Petter Eldh on bass and Jim Black on drums. This album captures the trio's dynamic energy as they delve into eight new compositions by Evans. Recorded at Namouche Studios, Extra exudes the excitement of musical discovery, with tracks like Freaks, In See, and Boom pushing forward with fiery intensity. The strong rhythmic foundation laid by Eldh and Black allows Evans to explore the limits of his trumpet, flugelhorn, and piccolo trumpet. Movement 56 and The Lighthouse offer surprising shifts, demonstrating the trio's ability to navigate complex musical landscapes effortlessly. Extra is a compelling listen, showcasing a band comfortable in their creative synergy.
Here to There
Ben Goldberg, Todd Sickafoose, and Scott Amendola
Label: Secret Hatch Records
Released: October 25, 2024
In their first collaboration as a trio, Ben Goldberg (clarinet), Todd Sickafoose (acoustic bass), and Scott Amendola (drums, electronics) present Here to There. This album captures the essence of their long-standing musical camaraderie, featuring eleven original compositions inspired by bridges from Thelonious Monk’s works. Tracks like In Walked and Self Evident reflect this Monk-inspired approach, while Amendola’s Lions Heart series showcases the trio's intuitive interplay. Recorded at Gung-Ho Studio in Oregon, the album balances structure with freedom, highlighting the musicians' shared history and creative synergy. Here to There is a dynamic exploration of fresh yet rooted Jazz tradition.
PolyTropos / Of Many Turns
by Steve Coleman
Label: Pi Recordings
Released: October 25, 2024
PolyTropos / Of Many Turns is the highly-anticipated new release from influential saxophonist and composer Steve Coleman. Comprised of two live sets recorded during a tour in France, the album features his band Five Elements with Jonathan Finlayson on trumpet, Sean Rickman on drums, and new addition Rich Brown on bass. Recorded in concert in Paris and Voiron, the performances rely on spontaneous conversions of rhythmic and tonal shapes, weaving musical figures into continuous movements. Coleman's compositions draw inspiration from logical chains of amino acids, creating a vivid, improvisational landscape. The band’s dynamic interplay and enigmatic internal logic make this album a captivating exploration of collective improvisation at its finest.
• BandCamp •
We See
By Steve Davis
Label: Smoke Sessions
Recorded: Oct. 1, 2024, at Smoke Jazz Club, New York City
Released: October 25, 2024
Trombone master Steve Davis convenes a remarkable all-star sextet at Smoke Jazz Club for We See, a stunning concert recording. Joined by Eddie Henderson on trumpet, Ralph Moore on saxophone, Renee Rosnes on piano, Essiet Essiet on bass, and Lewis Nash on drums, Davis delivers a performance that highlights his inventive ear for harmony and passion for melody. Known for his contributions to the bands of Freddie Hubbard, Chick Corea, and Art Blakey’s Jazz Messengers, Davis brings his extensive experience and nuanced playing to this live album. We See captures the dynamic interplay and improvisational prowess of an elite ensemble, making it a standout release in contemporary Jazz.
7x7By7
Brian Lynch
Label: Hollistic MusicWorks
Recorded: Oct. 2021, Samurai Hotel, NYC
Released: October 25, 2024
The number seven takes on mystical, magical qualities in Brian Lynch’s 7x7By7. Composed during the pandemic, this septology features seven pieces performed by seven musicians, each track exactly seven minutes long. Lynch's ensemble includes Craig Handy (tenor saxophone), Alex Wintz (guitar), Luis Perdomo (piano), Boris Kozlov (acoustic and electric bass), Kyle Swan (drums), and Murph Aucamp (percussion). The album’s structure allows for endless variations, with shared attributes like sectional form and tempo relationships. Tracks like The Historical Importance of Eccentricity and Melodic Incidents for an Irrational World showcase Lynch's creative vision and the ensemble's seamless interplay. 7x7By7 is a fascinating exploration of thematic and musical complexity.
Bird In Kansas
Charlie Parker
Label: Verve
Recorded: 1941-1951
Released: Oct. 25, 2024
Charlie Parker’s Bird In Kansas is a treasure trove of rare recordings from 1941-1951, showcasing his evolution from a soloist with the Jay McShann Band to a pioneering Jazz improviser. This collection includes previously unheard tracks and private recordings made at the homes of Phil Baxter and Vic Damon, where Parker stretches out and displays the shape of Jazz to come. Highlights include unreleased 78s with the McShann band, and intimate renditions of Cherokee, Body and Soul, and Honeysuckle Rose. This set offers a fascinating glimpse into Parker’s relationship with his hometown of Kansas City, blending familial ties with the complexities of racial segregation, all while cementing his legacy as a Jazz icon.
• Spotify •
Hamstrings & Hurricanes
Joe Webb
Label: Edition Records
Recorded: Nov. 10-12, 2023
Released: Oct. 25, 2024
Following his acclaimed EPs Collblanc and SET, pianist Joe Webb releases his much-anticipated full-length album Hamstrings & Hurricanes, featuring Will Sach on bass and Sam Jesson on drums. The album blends 90’s Brit-pop influences with Webb’s Welsh cultural roots, creating a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly original. Tracks like Hiraeth and the reimagined Shakermaker showcase Webb’s innovative approach to Jazz. With endorsements from Jools Holland, Jamie Cullum, and Gilles Peterson, Webb’s trio pushes the boundaries of Jazz while respecting its rich heritage. Hamstrings & Hurricanes is a continuous soundscape, weaving live elements, trio improvisations, and spontaneous creativity into a captivating album.
Planet Bluu
T.K. Blue
Label: JAJA
Released: Oct. 25, 2024
T.K. Blue’s Planet Bluu is a visionary exploration of an ideal world, free from war, famine, and discrimination. Featuring Wallace Roney Jr. on trumpet, Davis Whitfield on piano, Dishan Harper on bass, Orion Turre on drums, Steve Turre on trombone and shells, and Dave Kikoski on piano, the album is a blend of utopian themes and Jazz artistry. Tracks like The Acumen of Its Inhabitants and The Variegated Hues reflect the dream of a harmonious existence. Blue’s compositions, played with a mix of alto and soprano sax, alto flute, and kalimba, create an immersive soundscape that celebrates the profound connection between music and a better world. Planet Bluu is a poetic and hopeful journey through sound.
Tree Jazz – The Shape of Christmas to Come
Matt Wilson’s Christmas Tree-O
Label: Palmetto Records
Recorded: June 2024, Bucks County, Pennsylvania
Released: Oct. 25, 2024
Matt Wilson’s Christmas Tree-O celebrates their 15th anniversary with Tree Jazz – The Shape of Christmas to Come. Featuring Matt Wilson on drums, Jeff Lederer on reeds, and Paul Sikivie on bass, the trio joins forces with The Treedom Singers (Mary LaRose, Audrey Wilson, and Gregory Rodriguez) and pianist Dawn Clement. The album includes Christmas classics, a Puerto Rican Christmas song, and a Sephardic Hanukkah song. Highlights like Do You Hear What I Hear? / Under Pressure blend holiday cheer with a unique Jazz twist, while Si Me Dan Pasteles and Shine Your Light showcase the ensemble’s versatility. This album is a festive and innovative addition to the holiday Jazz repertoire.
• Spotify •
WE MAKE: Stories for a New Day
Zach Adleman
Label: Cellar
Released: Oct. 25, 2024
Drummer Zach Adleman’s WE MAKE: Stories for a New Day is an anthem for building each other up, inspired by reflections from the pandemic era. Featuring Sarah Hanahan on alto saxophone, Steve Wilson as a guest alto saxophonist, Austin Ford on trumpet, Steve Davis on trombone, Luther Allison on piano, Jared Beckstead-Craan on bass, and Adleman on drums, the album blends storytelling with rich Jazz grooves. Tracks like Ballad for the Night and In Between Places highlight Adleman’s deep connection to nature and his surroundings. The semi-title track, WE MAKE, embodies the album’s message, urging listeners to create and appreciate the collective human experience. This debut release on Cellar Music Group is an inspiring journey through music and connection.
Weather and Weeds
Holli Scott (featuring Tal Cohen and Jamie Oehlers)
Label: Independent
Recorded: March 28, 2024, WAAPA Studios
Released: Oct. 25, 2024
Holli Scott's second album, Weather and Weeds, features captivating lyrics and memorable melodies, straddling the lines of beauty and darkness. Joined by long-time collaborators Tal Cohen on piano and Jamie Oehlers on saxophone, Scott creates honest and emotionally resonant music. The decision to forego bass and drums allows Cohen and Oehlers to shine, complementing Scott’s stunning vocals. Highlights include Back the Way We Came, a tune with a lovely pop sensibility. Recorded, mixed, and mastered by Brodie Stewart, the album's well-thought-out arrangements and seamless interplay between the trio make Weather and Weeds a deeply engaging listen from start to finish.
You can check out the releases from the first week of November in this post
Upcoming Releases
Nov. 8, 2024 • Peter Lenz • Breathe (gambsART) • Spotify • BandCamp
Nov. 8, 2024 • Phil Haynes' Day Dream • Dukes & Strays Live (Haynes’ Corner Store)
Nov. 8, 2024 • Daniel Pardo • Ese Momento (s/r)
Nov. 8, 2024 • Guy Klucevsek/Volker Goetze • Little Big Top (Motéma Music) • Spotify • BandCamp
Nov. 8, 2024 • Keith Jarrett, Gary Peacock, Paul Motian • The Old Country: More From The Deer Head Inn (ECM Records)
Nov. 15, 2024 • John Hollenbeck • Colouring Hockets (Flexatonic Records) • BandCamp
Nov. 15, 2024 • Joe Fonda Quartet • Eyes on the Horizon (Long Song Records)
Nov. 15, 2024 • George Cables • I Hear Echoes (HighNote Records)
Nov. 15, 2024 • Colin Vallon • Samares (ECM Records)
Nov. 15, 2024 • Joy Lapps and Larnell Lewis • The Caribbean Christmas Mixtape Vol. 1
Nov. 15, 2024 • Hayoung Lyou • The Myth of Katabasis (Endectomorph) • BandCamp
Nov. 15, 2024 • Band of Other Brothers • This Year At Christmas (Ear Up Records)
Nov. 15, 2024 • Stephan Micus • To the Rising Moon (ECM Records)
Nov. 22, 2024 • Kim Cypher • Catching Moments • BandCamp
Nov. 22, 2024 • Sun Ra Arkestra • Lights On A Satellite (IN+OUT Records)
Nov. 22, 2024 • Spinifex • Undrilling the Hole (Trytone)
Nov. 29, 2024 • Bill Evans • Bill Evans in Norway (Elemental Music)
Nov. 29, 2024 • Emily Remler • Cookin’ at the Queens Live in Las Vegas 1984 & 1988 (Resonance Records)
Nov. 29, 2024 • Arild Andersen • Landloper (ECM Records)
Nov. 29, 2024 • Sun Ra • Lights on a Satellite: Live at the Left Bank (Resonance Records)
Nov. 29, 2024 • Thomas Strønen • Relations (ECM Records)
Nov. 29, 2024 • Jakob Bro • Taking Turns (ECM Records)
Dec. 6, 2024 • Renee Rosnes • Crossing Paths (Smoke Sessions) • BandCamp
Dec. 6, 2024 • B.B. King • In France: Live at the 1977 Nancy Jazz Pulsations Festival (Deep Digs)
Dec. 6, 2024 • Out Of/Into • Motion I (Blue Note)
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Warmly,
Jazz Sketches