These albums, my favorites of 2017, didn't merely stay with me. They didn't just stay in rotation or live on my phone. They were part of my life, the subject of many a moment. They haunted me delightfully. They were the products of artists who made music to make people feel things and were very much successful when it came specifically to me. When it comes to the subject of … [Read more...]
Nextbop’s Favorite Jazz Albums of 2017
We have a small, volunteer staff here at Nextbop. Folks who read us here contribute work, adding to the collective of voices that we so cherish here and giving additional perspective that Sebastien and I lack at times. It's why, when it comes to end-of-year lists, our collective of voices is so important. It's nice to see the overlaps in taste and to gain insights into albums … [Read more...]
Rotem Sivan – ‘Antidote’
It's hard to find new words to describe the brilliance of guitarist Rotem Sivan. His previous albums, 2015's A New Dance and 2014's For Emotional Use Only, highlighted his shining ability, primarily in the trio format, as an adept composer and improviser, though more an elaborator than an improvisor. His little gems of ideas keep getting polished, like his fingertips are a fine … [Read more...]
Rotem Sivan – ‘Antidote’ (EPK)
Rotem Sivan is one of my favorite guitar players. He's a nimble player and an engaging composer, and his trio including bassist haggai Cohen Milo and drummer Colin Stranahan are gelling magnificently. The featured songs with vocalist/ukulele player Gracie Terzian are sweet little treats that pop up here and there, giving a different sort of flavor. So it's with a good deal of … [Read more...]