by Preston Frazier, Something Else! “Shifting to a more straight-ahead vibe, Riverside finds solo fusion guitarist Oz Noy joined by drummer Ray Marchia and in-demand session player Ugonna Okegwo. They groove through 10 standards, creating something familiar yet new.” “Saxophonist Adam Larson has accelerated his creative ventures as of late. The composer, bandleader and educator is … Read More
By Preston Frazier, Something Else! Guitarist, composer and educator Alex Wintz’s Live to Tape, set to arrive on Nov. 6, 2020, is is his first on Outside Music. It’s a compelling display of Wintz’s chops, taste and improvisational powers. Working with bassist Dave Baron and drummer Jimmy Macbride. Read this review here.
By Preston Frazier, Something Else! ROBIN MCKELLE – ALTERATIONS (JAZZ/POP): There’s a danger in navigating well-worn pop standards. Singer Robin Michelle seems to jump into the challenge with both feet. The resulting album, Alterations, shows that fortune does indeed favor the bold. Michelle’s take on “Ordinary Love” makes sure not to copy the Sade original. … Read More
By Preston Frazier, Something Else Say Yes is the latest release by versatile singer La Tonya Hall. She recorded this first new work since 2009’s It’s About Time in between dates as backup singer for Steely Dan. The results on Say Yes are what you would expect from such an acclaimed vocalist. Working with Andy … Read More
By Preston Frazier, Something Else No. 3. CATHERINE RUSSELL – ALONE TOGETHER: Never content to rest on the past, Catherine Russell delivers 13 stellar interpretations on this new Best of 2019 Jazz entry, not only highlighting her gifts as a vocalist but also as a band leader. Oh, and what a band: Guitarist Matt Munisteri, … Read More
