When one thinks of jazz trios, the combination found on 7 Poets Trio is probably not what comes to mind. Then again, when looking at the members of this trio, each one being a mainstay in the boundary pushing avant-garde jazz scene of New York City, it makes perfect sense. 7 Poets Trio is a riveting collaboration between Patricia Brennan (vibraphone), Tomeka Reid (cello) and … [Read more...]
Trumpeter Dave Douglas’ New Album ‘Engage’ Reviewed
Not one to shy from politics, Dave Douglas’ Engage tackles a variety of hot button topics ranging from gun control to immigration. To address these issues, the bandleader assembled a collective of those at the forefront of modern avant garde jazz music including guitarist Jeff Parker, cellist Tomeka Reid, saxophonist and flautist Anna Webber, bassist Nick Dunston, and drummer … [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...]
Makaya McCraven – ‘Universal Beings’ (Album Review)
We've been here before, in awe of the drumming, bandleading, and exploration of Makaya McCraven. His last full-length album, In the Moment was a well-curated collection of sounds that emerged instantaneously from a multitude of configurations at the top of their game and the illustration of a Chicago scene that is building more and more love. Many of McCraven's releases are … [Read more...]
Jaimie Branch – ‘Fly or Die’
Although Jaimie Branch has been playing music for a while now, having been part of the Chicago jazz scene before her recent move to Brooklyn, Fly or Die is her debut as a bandleader. The trumpeter's band is made up of Jason Ajemian (bass), Chad Taylor (drums) and notably cellist Tomeka Reid, whose quartet had a standout release in 2015. The main quartet is occasionally joined … [Read more...]