Mark McMillen & Friends - "In Our Hearts & Souls: A Bobby Caldwell Tribute Song" - Independent
Mark McMillen, keyboardist and Music Director with Bobby Caldwell, spent nearly thirty years touring, recording, and co-writing with the legendary vocalist. Upon Bobbys’ passing two years ago, Mark began composing this tribute in hopes of getting contributions from many of the incredibly talented musicians in his band through the years. The response from players and singers who shared the stage with Bobby resulted in these stellar and heartfelt performances. The sentiment is truly reflected in the songs’ title, “In Our Hearts And Souls”…an homage to one of the all-time greats. Dave Koz, Boney James, Michael Lington, Andrew Neu, Roberto Vally, Stan Sargeant, Land Richards, Allen Hinds, Carlyle Bariteau, Tommy V, Jean McLain, Ken Stacey, Tollak Ollestad, Marilyn Scott, Machan Taylor, Jeff Kievit and everyone on this all-star roster was encouraged to express what the experience of knowing and playing with Bobby meant to them.
Dom Salvador - Simplicity - Independent
SIMPLICITY, that is the title of the new CD under the leadership of Dom Salvador on piano, Bill Moring on bass, and Vanderlei Pereira on drums. This CD contains 7 songs of wonderful music with slick arrangements, great melodies, lots of Samba rhythms, mixed with some New York swing. All of this under the leadership of Mr. Salvador’s guiding hand(s)! Mr. Salvador has paid his dues playing with the likes of Sivuka, Charlie Rouse, Dom Um Romao, and Maestro. He played at the famous Tin Palace with Lloyd McNeill in New York, and was the famous producer Orrin Keepnews favorite Samba musicians. I’ll direct you attention to two of the 7 tracks that really caught my ears ETCETERA….for Samba and New York cross rhythms that are really fierce…and SIMPLICITY….the title for the easy flow of melody, arrangement, drum presence, bass sound and piano solo. This is just for openers….now……you can enjoy the remaining tracks of this CD as I’m doing as I type these words. Maestro (bassist Ron Carter)
Antonia Bennett - Expressions - Independent
Expressions is a deeply personal project where I had the chance to tell my story—both through original songs inspired by my own life and through interpretations of pieces from the Great American Songbook and beyond. Many of the songs were born from experiences I was navigating for the first time: becoming a mother, learning how to balance family and career, and discovering new emotions along the way. I had the great pleasure of collaborating with Christian Jacob, who arranged the entire album. His vision and sensitivity helped shape each song, and together we created something that feels honest and heartfelt. The core band—Christian Jacob on piano, Kevin Axt on bass, Kendell Kay on drums, and Larry Koonse on guitar—are all extraordinary musicians. Their artistry brought subtle nuance to every note. We were also fortunate to feature some incredible special guests. On trumpet Randy Brecker added his signature sound, and Dave Thomas of Take 6 lent his unique vocal stylings to the background vocals on “Wherever You Go,”. This record is a reflection of where I am in life and the stories I’m ready to share.
Fernando Ferrarone - Now Til Forever - Independent
On his debut album, Now Till Forever, composer and multi-instrumentalist Fernando Ferrarone explores the sounds of the world through a blend of jazz, catchy soulful melodies, and a touch of Latin rhythms. With warm trumpet playing, tasteful saxophone lines, and an incredible band supporting him, the album paints images of peace and healing, leaving listeners immersed in a deeply personal sonic landscape.