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Article: Album Review

Jonathan Karrant: Live

by Jim Olin
April 27, 2019

Jonathan Karrant is a soulful vocalist with a broad melodic reach, showcasing his might in this concert in Las Vegas at the globally-renowned Smith Center. The album combines standards and lesser-known fare, each given a smooth, appealing rendition. Karrant is certainly a dynamic performer as this show vividly showcases. This beautiful concert document is ...

Article: Album Review

Tobiasz Siankiewicz: Time To Begin

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by Jim Olin
March 13, 2019

Not all debut albums are blooming with the self-confidence and boldness that saxophonist Tobiasz Siankiewicz displays on Time To Begin. But then there aren't many driven, direct and forward-thinking artists such as Siankiewicz with a passion and skill for timeless jazz tones, especially on a first time to bat. What's really amazing about his sound is ...

Article: Album Review

Derek Menchan: The Griot Swings the Classics

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by Jim Olin
March 9, 2019

Multi-instrumentalist Derek Menchan refers to them as “snapshots in black," and certainly the covers from the American Negro collection on The Griot Swings the Classics delivering a rich history lesson, especially in the context of the shocking racial division happening in the 21st century. But from just a pure musical standpoint, the album is strong and ...

Article: Album Review

Rafa Selase: Red Blooded American

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by Jim Olin
February 28, 2019

Powerful lyrics and seamless melodies with a timeless feel define the new album from Rafa Selase, which bridges the gaps between folk, hip-hop, and jazz. It also echoes the pioneering spoken-word music of Gil Scott-Heron in its real and vivid poetry. As one can interpret from the title, Selase reflects on the social and political environment ...

Article: Album Review

Long Time No Time: First Time Full Time

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by Jim Olin
February 10, 2019

The Canadian band Long Time No Time must have a fondness for wordplay. The title of their new album, First Time Full Time, is quite clever, already revealing that this five-piece band wants to have fun. It is also a group with a passion for combining the energy of rock with the intricacy of jazz. That's ...

Article: Album Review

H & J Quintet: Reminisce

by Jim Olin
February 8, 2019

H & J Quintet's Reminisce easily separates itself from most jazz releases with its heavy influence of Brazilian and ecclesiastical music, an original combination that already makes the album refreshing. The flute--not a common item in jazz circles--is also an integral part of their sound. Consisting of Berklee alumni, H & J Quintet is a contemporary ...

Article: Album Review

John Trinckes and Linda Trinckes: A Crazy Jazzy Christmas

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by Jim Olin
December 20, 2018

Florida-based John Trinckes and Linda Trinckes are not just a duo; they're a married couple. The two only met less than three years ago after losing their respective spouses but have been releasing a steady stream of music. The Trinckes have a life-long passion for sharing warm melodies and uplifting songs with their audience. ...

Article: Album Review

Sam Blakeslee Quintet: Selective Coverage

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by Jim Olin
September 20, 2018

Selective Coverage is a remarkable and forward-thinking release by the Sam Blakeslee Quintet. The project reaffirms the group's ability to break the patterns and explore new ideas, while staying true to the aesthetics of contemporary jazz. But beneath the technical precision and creative compositions is the deeper meaning of the album's title; it is inspired by ...

Article: Album Review

Marcelo Maccagnan: Looking Ahead

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by Jim Olin
September 16, 2018

New York-based Marcelo Maccagnan is an artist whose music is a refreshing blend of different styles and creative ideas. On his latest album, Looking Ahead, Maccagnan has delivered a collection of exotic, sharply sculpted instrumentals that fascinate and awaken the senses. His electrifying bass playing casts a hypnotic spell but each of his fellow musicians are ...

Article: Album Review

Michon Young: Love, Life, Experiences, Vol. 2: Driving to Purpose

Read "Love, Life, Experiences, Vol. 2: Driving to Purpose" reviewed by Jim Olin

by Jim Olin
September 9, 2018

While a number R&B artists are pretty good and content at making fun, engaging, and catchy music, others actually love to go the extra mile and take a different direction. These artists are hoping and willing to inspire the audience as well as sharing their personal views and opinions on many different topics, including relationships and ...