The Frost Duo - "City Nights" - Independent
City nights is a smooth jazz instrumental by The Frost Duo that will have listeners resonating with the feeling of hope, excitement and joy. An Adam Hawley production, this song brings out the smooth creativity of Christian Gratz on guitar and LeahBeth Evans on the keys, with the ideal finishing touch of saxophone playing of Jason Jackson. Close your eyes while listening, and you may just feel the bustle of big cities that offer endless dreams and big opportunities!
Carmen Jackson - "Bag's Groove" – Independent
A vibrant new chapter in modern jazz arrives with “Bag’s Groove”, a fresh release honoring the legacy of legendary vibraphonist Milt Jackson. Written as a personal tribute by his niece, the composition reimagines the iconic 1952 piece first recorded with Miles Davis, carrying its unmistakable blues‑infused swing into a new era. This release celebrates Jackson’s unmistakable touch—his lyrical phrasing, soulful harmonic sense, and the cool, unhurried feel that helped define the Modern Jazz Quartet and shape post‑bop history. While rooted in the spirit of the original, the new Bag’s Groove introduces contemporary colors and a personal voice, bridging generations through sound. The project reflects a deep family connection and a lifelong musical influence, offering listeners both nostalgia and discovery. It stands as a testament to Jackson’s enduring impact and the timelessness of his melodic approach.
Greg Rahn - Side Hustle - Independent
With the release of Side Hustle, San Francisco Bay Area keyboardist and composer Greg Rahn brings his compositions to the forefront, channeling a lifetime of diverse influences—Chick Corea’s adventurous jazz fusion, Steely Dan’s harmonic sophistication, Snarky Puppy’s modern edge, and the rich flavors of New Orleans music. “The release of Side Hustle is me playing my favorite music with my favorite musicians,” Rahn explains. “Since childhood I’ve been influenced by everything from rock, pop, jazz fusion, and funk, to classical, folk, and New Orleans grooves. That diversity shows up in everything I write.” This release carries more than just music — it carries memory. “I’m especially grateful we captured these sessions when we did. Since then, my longtime friend and bassist Steve Evans (Etta James, Brian Auger, Elvin Bishop,) and guest guitarist Drew Zingg, (Steely Dan’s touring band, Boz Skaggs) have both passed. Steve was a steady presence in my musical life, and though I’d only just met Drew, our connection was instant and unforgettable. I’m honored to have created with them both.” It also features Mick Mestek and Marc van Wageningen (Tower of Power) on drums and bass respectively.
Hindy Bare - Jillo - Independent
Hindy Bare’s new album JILLO is a mix of straight ahead jazz, and funky soul-jazz. It was conceived as a tribute to author, humanist, and historian Jill Ker Conway, who became the first woman president of Smith College. The three movements of the Jill Ker Conway Suite depict different periods of Conway’s life. Sivery Grey reflects her early years in the wilds of Australia. Changing meters and poignant soprano saxophone lines from Dan Boissy give this track a wistful, longing quality. Verve is about several years of struggle early in Conway’s career. It has a hard bop feel, and this tune is cooking! Wizer bookends the album with two different cuts- the radio edit, and the Musician’s cut jam. With it’s funky feel, this song is about finding your groove, Sink into it and enjoy. Macy Gray’s I Try is a feel good instrumental featuring guitarist Hank Easton. Bare takes on J. Dilla’s Clap Your Hands with a fender Rhodes trio. This cut evokes a chill, hip-hop sensibility. Finally, Bare’s version of Stevie Wonder’s Isn’t She Lovely combines Latin, swing, guitar, saxophone, and a killer organ solo.
Nat Adderly Jr. Trio - Took So Long – Independent
Nat Adderley Jr., renowned pianist, keyboardist, composer, musical director and arranger, steps into the spotlight with Took So Long, his first album as a leader. Best known for his four decades shaping the music of Luther Vandross, Adderley now steps out front with a trio project. The album offers a pleasing mix of standards and reimagined classics. Across the record Adderley’s joined by longtime friends, bassist Belden Bullock and drummer Steve Johns, as well as bassist Chris Berger and drummers Tommy Campbell, Dwayne Cook Broadnax and Vince Ector. Adderley’s version of “Superstar,” first arranged for Vandross on Busy Body in 1983 and later Live at Radio City Music Hall, shifts from its moody aura into a festive Brazilian samba.