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New Stories Trio: Speakin' Out

by Jason West
Does the Seattle jazz community-that nebulous amalgamation of big-eared musicians, students and listeners-realize the good fortune that we possess as friendly, backyard neighbors to John Bishop, Doug Miller and Marc Seales: the New Stories Trio? It's a question that is undoubtedly answered with countless nods in the affirmative from those of us who have heard the trio perform with local sax legend Don Lanphere, Grammy-nominated vocalist Mark Murphy, numerous Port Townsend and Earshot festival groups, and Ernie WattsL.A. saxophone heavyweight ...
Continue ReadingVarious Artists: A Twist of Jobim

by Douglas Payne
This appropriately smooth jazz" tribute to Antonio Carlos Jobim is perhaps one of the best that's come out over the last few years. Like many of Jobim's records, it goes down like a smooth, relaxing drink. Producer, arranger and nominal leader guitarist Lee Ritenour has collected some fine talent, particularly frequent collaborator Dave Grusin, and crafted some very nice moments throughout. Highlights include Water to Drink" (featuring Ritenour and Grusin), Captain Bacardi" (an old Ritenour / Grusin staple with Eric ...
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