Jazz Articles about Randy Bernsen

About Randy Bernsen

Album Review

Randy Bernsen: Heart Mind and Soul

Read "Heart Mind and Soul" reviewed by Geannine Reid

by Geannine Reid
February 27, 2024

Randy Bernsen, a guitarist, and composer whose roots trace back to Needham, Massachusetts before embedding himself in the vibrant musical scene of South Florida, has long been a figure within the jazz and fusion communities. His journey began with early collaborations with Jaco Pastorius and has evolved into a rich solo career that spans over three decades. His eleventh studio album, Heart Mind and Soul, is a set of six songs guided by his vast experiences and brought to life ...

Album Review

Mike Levine: Just Chillin

Read "Just Chillin" reviewed by Edward Blanco

by Edward Blanco
April 7, 2021

A proponent of the more relaxing side of the jazz spectrum, pianist and keyboardist Mike Levine presents his fourth album as leader, offering thirteen primarily original pieces falling decidedly within the smooth jazz category. A talented composer, Levine's music seems to eschew the core jazz tenet of improvisation in favor of catchy melodies perfect for those chilling-out moments that overwhelm us all sooner or later. A first-call musician by anyone's count, Levine draws on his vast experience performing ...

Album Review

Dan Bonsanti: Cartoon Bebop

Read "Cartoon Bebop" reviewed by Jack Bowers

by Jack Bowers
February 9, 2021

The malicious coronavirus pandemic that brought most of the world to its knees in 2020 has spawned the use of several reanimated words including “virtual," whose meaning is “sort of here but not really," as in virtual video chats, conference calls, exhibits, films and even musical performances. “Virtual" has spread its tentacles into almost every walk of life including jazz, via YouTube and other creative channels. And now, it seems, to big bands as well. Cartoon Bebop, the third album ...

Album Review

Randy Bernsen: Grace Notes

Read "Grace Notes" reviewed by Geannine Reid

by Geannine Reid
January 4, 2016

Grace Notes is a tasteful album, chalked full of fresh, creative compositions by guitarist Randy Bernsen. If you like the Rippingtons, Weather Report or the Yellowjackets, you will love this CD, too! As a composer and player, Bernsen possesses a unique creative vibe that does combine a wonderful “grace" that you can hear in every note he plays or writes. His cool, yet extraordinary talent is augmented by an all-star cast including: Yellowjackets co-founders Jimmy Haslip and Russell Ferrante, drummers ...