The Best of 2004

Recorded in just one day, the fluid interaction of the trio creates music out of their improvisations that is arguably as memorable as the selection of standards themselves.

On his own, the brilliant young pianist embarks upon full-blown excursions almost as far- reaching as his eclectic selection of material (from Radiohead to Gershwin).

Medeski, Martin & Wood
End of the World Party[just in case]
Blue Note

A truly remarkable piece of work in which groove is interwoven with ambience by way of live improvs condensed in the studio.

Branford Marsalis Quartet
Eternal
Marsalis Music

Branford has found his voice here as never before and places it, along with the recording itself, on par with those of the jazz eternals he emulates."

Charlie Hunter Trio
Friends Seen and Unseen
Ropeadope

No one luxuriates in a groove more deeply than 8-string guitarist Charlie Hunter and his two cohorts are right in rhythm with him.

John Scofield Trio
Enroute
Verve

With almost telepathic interplay between the guitarist, bassist Steve Swallow and drummer Bill Stewart, the music flows endlessly and imaginatively from start to finish on this live CD.

Stefon Harris & Blackout
Evolution
Blue Note

This is an absolutely beautiful cd, immaculately produced, full of shifting textures and snappy exchanges between band members clearly enthused about their participation.

Charlie Hunter & Bobby Previte w/ Greg Osby
Groundtruther
Thirsty Ear

The guitarist and percussionist interact with and support the always estimable Osby in such a way they generate an emotional bond you feel throughout the CD.

Greg Osby
Public
Blue Note

Recorded with remarkable "you are there" accuracy, we as listeners and jazz fans will be challenged again by Osby and that is his stock in trade.

Geri Allen
The Life of a Song
Telarc

Fiercely intelligent, strongly melodic and forcefully rhythmic, the music on this CD contains that rare likes of which will make you sit down and listen whenever you play it.

Benny Green & Russell Malone
Bluebird
Telarc

The unfettered joy with which these two musicians interact, equally evident on upbeat material or ballads, is the exquisite pleasure of hearing this CD.

Comments