New Jersey State

This week, for our first hour, we'll present a free-from 45 format. Spinning singles from this box of mini platters I have right here. Reading the recently released book titled "In with the In crowd, Popular Jazz in 1960s Black America" by Mike Smith, I was reminded that jazz artists in the mid-century were part of pop culture—electrifying dance clubs, permeating radio waves and releasing top-selling records. Jazz 7" singles thrived as a medium to deliver the music to the masses who enjoyed popular jazz. For tonight's show, I'll randomly select tracks and give them a spin, a listen and some radio play. Sit back and enjoy a free-form 45 set here on the Jazz Continuum.

A Free Form 45 Format + Davis, Rollins & Hill

The name of tenor and soprano saxophonist Bob Berg seems to be mentioned less frequently over time, but he was one of the most gifted saxophonists in the generation that followed in the wake of John Coltrane. His passion, timing and technique were among the best. In some ways, his style was similar to Michael Brecker; he moved in similar circles but seems to have slipped into the shadows as Brecker gained significant popularity.

Gianfranco Menzella: Dedicated To Bob Berg

Aspen, CO

The Jazz Aspen Snowmass June Experience returned this year with 20 acts performing over the course of three nights in various venues around downtown Aspen. JAS has been sponsoring two festivals (or "Experiences") each of the last several years. The June festival has been more jazz and jazz-adjacent and the Labor Day Festival (although still promoted under the "Jazz Aspen Snowmass" moniker) tends more toward pop and even some country.

Jazz Aspen Snowmass June Experience 2024

It is beyond coincidence that the two most uplifting albums released by male saxophonists so far in 2024 were made by players who use their music, in part, to celebrate female wisdom. The albums are Linda Sikhakhane's Iladi and Oded Tzur's My Prophet (ECM). New York-based Tzur's My Prophet, like...

Linda Sikhakhane: Iladi

Angela Bofill was a majestic soul/jazz/pop vocalist starting in the '70s and '80s. Slightly older than the more well-known Anita Baker, Bofill recorded stunning ballads that highlighted her impeccably sweet tone and emotional interpretations. "Tonight I Give In" epitomized the "Quiet Storm" genre. Bofill passed away on June 13, 2024, but for her fans, her tracks will remain on auto-replay for years to come. Read her obituary.

Angela Bofill: Tonight I Give In

Virginia State

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Cheryl E Preston

Etiquette and Miss Emily Post once frowned upon females who sat gap-legged in public. In Virginia, books in school libraries, teen magazines, and older females often suggested that young ladies cross their legs at the ankle while seated.

"Cross your legs at the ankle young lady" is not totally forgotten today

New releases: Jermaine Hall, DarWin, Roman Bondarenko and Argentinian band A 18. John Escreet, Bill Evans - Saxophone with Victor Wooten. David Garfield, John Pena and Michiel Stekelenburg. Plus the new one from Gavin Harrison and Antoine Fafard. Playlist. Jermaine Hall "Keep Left" from Ideology (Self Produced) 00:00. DarWin "The...

Bill Evans, John Escreet, David Garfield and John Pena

The Moody Blues, an iconic British rock band formed in 1964, have left an indelible mark on the music industry with their innovative blend of rock, classical, and progressive sounds. Renowned for their lush harmonies, symphonic arrangements, and thought-provoking lyrics, the band has crafted a legacy that spans decades and continues to influence musicians and fans alike. With a career that boasts numerous chart-topping hits and critically acclaimed albums, The Moody Blues have carved out a unique niche in the world of rock music. From their early days with the hit single “Go Now” to their groundbreaking album “Days of Future Passed,” which seamlessly fused rock with orchestral music, the band’s evolution is a testament to their artistic vision and versatility. In this article, we celebrate the Top 10 Best The Moody Blues Songs of All Time, exploring the timeless tracks that have captivated audiences and solidified their place in music history. Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their music, these songs showcase the band’s enduring brilliance and the profound emotional and sonic landscapes they have created.

10 Best The Moody Blues Songs of All Time

Indie bands are musical groups that operate independently of major record labels, often characterized by their DIY approach to production and distribution. They typically explore innovative and diverse sounds, blending genres and pushing creative boundaries. This independence allows for artistic freedom, leading to unique and authentic music that resonates with niche audiences. Indie bands often cultivate strong connections with their fans through intimate live performances and grassroots marketing. Their music reflects a commitment to originality and expression, making them a dynamic and influential force in the music industry, celebrated for their creativity and cultural impact.

15 Best Indie Bands of All Time

Tornado Watch is a uniquely attractive album from pianist Adam Hersh and his terrific sidemen. It offers ten tracks of intelligent, intensely-performed music. All the songs here are Hersh originals (save one) and each was recorded live in Los Angeles at the "Sam First" jazz club. "Woe V Shade," obviously...

Adam Hersh: Tornado Watch

The two genres are, on the surface, very different from one another, and yet, the humanity and creativity that shines through across time and space speak to something else at play here—an unfathomably deep connection that defies the temporal, geographical, racial, and cultural differences, revealing instead the shared human spirit that is manifested in these powerful artistic expressions.

Twin Sons from Different Mothers: Harmonic Convergence in Jazz and Classical Music, Part 4: "The Neapolitan 6th Chord in Jazz and Classical Music"

Bill Wyman will release his ninth solo album, ‘Drive My Car’, on 9th August. A masterful blend of his unique Anglo-Americana rhythm and blues, ‘Drive My Car’ is Wyman’s first album since 2015 and will be available digitally, on CD and gatefold vinyl. Both CD and digital formats will feature two additional bonus tracks. To coincide with today’s announcement Wyman has unveiled a video to title track ‘Drive My Car’.

Ex-Rolling Stones Bassist Bill Wyman Announces New Album ‘Drive My Car’

"Falar abobrinha "is a funny Brazilian phrase meaning to speak zucchini, (to speak nonsense in English). In this composition by David Manson, O Som Do Jazz plays a Baião (a Northeastern Brazilian style) with an extended solo by flutist José Valentino Ruiz and a bass solo by Alejandro Arenas. The song is on the fourth release by O Som Do Jazz entitled "Aberto".

Fala abobrinha by O Som Do Jazz

Sometimes careers are about being in the right place at the right time. And sometimes, an artist is so talented that she finds her way to success, even when circumstance seem to work against her. That’s in part the story of Siedah Garrett, an immensely talented singer and songwriter who has quietly played a role on some of the most notable music of the past forty decades.

Happy Birthday to singer and songwriter Siedah Garrett!

From a celebrated veteran musician and author from Denmark, we begin the 861st Episode of Neon Jazz with Benjamin Koppel and music from his 2023 album White Busses. From here, we get into a legend Benjamin spent quality time with in Phil Woods. As the hour ensues, we hear great new music from Ray Brown, Jo Harrop, Jon De Lucia and Anthony Branker. In between, we hear from new players including Alexa Torres and Emiliano Lasansky. Finally, we bring it all together with music from the Pat Metheny Trio. Dig this jazz, my friends.

Phil Woods, Pat Metheny & Benjamin Koppel

Eric Hollaway, known online as “thatbassvoice," is a renowned bass vocalist celebrated for his rich, resonant bass tone. “Hollaway" has leveraged social media to share his talent with a global audience. His online presence is significant having fans all over the world tuning in to listen to his covers. He has carved a unique niche with his vocal artistry. In addition to being a singer he is an established voice over artist and podcaster. He has performed collaborations with various artists and musicians showcasing his versatility with various musical styles. His collaborations have gone viral spanning multiple genres and have been featured in numerous media outlets, including TV, film, video and gaming franchises.

Eric Hollaway - Thatbassvoice - Jazz•ish - New Release July 15th!

We celebrated one of South Africa's most extraordinary piano talents this week with Thembi Dunjana. Dunjana has established herself as a star in Cape Town's rich jazz scene. Drawing upon varied inspirations that range from the American influences of John Coltrane Horace Silver, and McCoy Tyner to South African legends like Moses Taiwa Molelekwa and Bheki Mseleku. Dunjana released her Mzantsi jazz award-winning project Intyatyambo in 2020, winning best Best Jazz & Best Female Jazz in 2021. She is back in 2024, with her follow up sophomore project God Bless Ikapa. God Bless Mzantsi, A dedication to the the people of Cape Town and South Africa. The album was released through the US based Ropeadope Records in collaboration with AfricArise.

Celebrating Thembi Dunjana's 'God Bless Ikapa, God Bless Mzantsi'

Benny Waters and Joe Turner (no relation to blues singer Big Joe Turner) were two of the many American jazz artists who found life to be more secure, lucrative, and less ruled by racism in Europe where they were appreciated much more for their talents. Unlike Sidney Bechet, who was well-known in the US before becoming a national hero in France, Waters and Turner were far from household names in the US jazz world before moving overseas, but they worked steadily for decades in parallel if rarely overlapping careers.

Benny Waters and Joe Turner: Profiles in Jazz

Wyoming State

In his performing career, pianist Chad Edwards has probably heard more wisecracks and quips about his actually being a retired rocket scientist than there are stars in the Cosmos. However, rest assured—as he has done in his parallel and now formal career, and is presented in Wyoming Roads—his keyboard and compositional talents certainly stand on their own. It is a fine nine track collection of five Edwards' originals and four Great American Songbook classics, with the pianist backed up by fine L.A. personnel.

Chad Edwards: Wyoming Roads

Steve Cropper has unveiled Friendlytown, the latest in a long string of offerings from the legendary sideman and veteran session musician. Set to release on Aug. 23 via Mascot Label Group, Cropper’s forthcoming project arrives as his second solo record alongside backing ensemble The Midnight Hour, who released Fire It Up to widespread acclaim in 2021. For his follow-up, the artist at once honors his monumental history and looks forward to his legacy, showcasing the strength of his industry connections and time-tested skills on the preview single “Too Much Stress.”

Watch: Steve Cropper Details New Album ‘Fire It Up,’ Welcomes Brian May and Billy F. Gibbons for “Too Much Stress”

NewsBreak

Sean Hong Wei & Jeremy Monteiro: The New Jersey Sessions

The New Jersey Sessions is a testament to the vitality of jazz brought to life by pianist Jeremy Monteiro and tenor saxophonist Sean Hong Wei, with...

Sean Hong Wei & Jeremy Monteiro: The New Jersey Sessions

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