By Hrayr Attarian, Chicago Jazz Magazine Chicago based drummer and composer Gustavo Cortiñas’ third release as a leader, the magnificent Desafio Candente is an ambitious work both in depth and … Read More
Hrayr Attarian
REVIEW: Chad McCullough “Forward” – Chicago Jazz Magazine
By Hrayr Attarian, Chicago Jazz Magazine In addition to his signature lyricism, trumpeter Chad McCullough has made a mark on the creative music scene with his imaginative writing. McCullough pays … Read More
REVIEW: Dustin Laurenzi’s ‘A Time and a Place’ – Chicago Jazz Magazine
by Hrayr Attarian, Chicago Jazz Magazine Possessing a unique, easily recognizable sound, saxophonist Dustin Laurenzi has been active on the Chicago creative music scene since 2012. Over this period Laurenzi … Read More
REVIEW: Bradfield, Goldberg, Hall’s ‘General Semantics’ – Chicago Jazz Magazine
by Hrayr Attarian, Chicago Jazz Magazine Clarinetist Ben Goldberg, reedist Geof Bradfield, and drummer Dana Hall are all intrepid innovators—each with his own unique style. It is this individual distinctiveness … Read More
REVIEW: Ryan Cohan “Originations” – Chicago Jazz Magazine
By Hrayr Attarian, Chicago Jazz Magazine Pianist and composer Ryan Cohan is a master of creating harmony from contrasts. Over the years his works have incorporated many diverse influences and … Read More
REVIEW: Derrick Gardner “Still I Rise” – Chicago Jazz Magazine
By Hrayr Attarian, Chicago Jazz Magazine Trumpeter Derrick Gardner fronts the Winnipeg-based Big dig! Band on the thrilling Still I Rise, his debut with a large ensemble. His previous recordings … Read More
REVIEW: Leslie Beukelman ‘Golden Daffodil’ Reviewed by Chicago Jazz Magazine
By Hrayr Attarian, Chicago Jazz Magazine Twelve years after her auspicious debut, vocalist and songwriter Leslie Beukelman returns with the equally introspective and more mature Golden Daffodil. Fronting a rhythm … Read More
REVIEW: Clark Sommer’s “Peninsula” Reviewed by Chicago Jazz Magazine
By Hrayr Attarian, Chicago Jazz Magazine Chicago-area native Clark Sommers is a superbly talented and much in-demand bassist with an elegant style. He has distilled the influences of the greats … Read More
REVIEW: Matt Ulery’s ‘Delicate Charms’ Reviewed by Chicago Jazz Magazine
By: Hrayr Attarian, Chicago Jazz Magazine Bassist and composer Matt Ulery has penned some of the most unique pieces in modern jazz. Over his career he has developed a brilliant … Read More
REVIEW: Chicago Jazz Magazine Reviews Roxy Coss’ ‘Quintet’
Hrayr Attarian, Chicago Jazz Magazine Saxophonist and composer Roxy Coss’ fifth release as a leader is the captivating and plainly titled Quintet. The brevity of the album’s appellation belies the … Read More