Compiling a list of the greatest works of the last ten years is an inherently difficult proposition. The first complication lies in the fact that so many of my musical memories from the last decade are tied to recordings released prior to the period. Some of my best memories include the Charlie Parker song from 1950 that played at my wedding, the New Year’s Eve I first stumbled … [Read more...]
Brian Kiwanuka’s Favorite Jazz Albums of 2019
Tuesday we unveiled Nextbop's Best Jazz Albums of 2019, which was compiled by our staff as a whole. Yesterday, we published Editor-in-Chief Anthony Dean-Harris' Favorite Jazz Albums of 2019. Today, we continue our Season of Lists with Staff Writer Brian Kiwanuka's Favorite Jazz Albums of 2019. 10. Brandee Younger - Soul Awakening (Self Release) The harp is a spellbinding … [Read more...]
Nextbop’s Best Jazz Albums of 2019
It was an amazing year for jazz music. The genre is constantly evolving and pushing the limits of creativity. Jazz musicians have a real talent for drawing inspiration from other musical styles while always staying rooted in a century of tradition. New directions are emerging, new stars are rising, seasoned veterans are redefining their sound. It's such a blessing to be part of … [Read more...]
Tomeka Reid Quartet – “Old New” (Stream)
It's really easy to be surprised by Tomeka Reid, despite how one should always see her brilliance coming. As a player, she's always that extra flavor that pushes quality over the top, but she's always been just as impressive as a composer. For her latest album, Old New, Reid has put together a string-centered group that really swings. For the title track lead single, Tomas … [Read more...]
Ingrid Laubrock – ‘Contemporary Chaos Practices – Two Works for Orchestra with Soloists’ (Album Review)
German saxophonist Ingrid Laubrock, a musician who usually works in relatively small jazz groups, is now taking her vision to the orchestra. With two pieces full of engrossing discord and a contemporary fusion with traits of classical music and avant-garde jazz improvisation, Contemporary Chaos Practices is an extremely apt title. The soloists featured include Laubrock and … [Read more...]