Author: TJ Gorton
The latest release from the always forward-thinking London-based Jazz Re:Freshed label is the highly-anticipated debut, Driftglass, from the SEED Ensemble. Led by alto saxophonist Cassie Kinoshi, the ten-piece collective features some of the best musicians coming out of the region.
Last month, I kicked off a new jazz-focused night called SPACE at downtown Oakland’s Soul Provisions lounge, with the goal to create a community gathering space for jazz fans, musicians, and record collectors. Each month, I will be joined by either guest DJs, or a live jazz act. From time to time, I hope to also feature vinyl vendors that specialize in jazz.
Soundway Records presents the latest release from the UK-based tropical dance collective Flamingo Pier.
For about two decades, the London-based DJ, record label owner, and music producer Gilles Peterson has been a major influence on me. From his work as a radio presenter on both BBC Radio 6 and Worldwide FM, and his eclectic DJ sets, to his Brownswood label, the compilations he produces, and the festivals he puts on, Gilles has opened my eyes to so much amazing music and helped inspire my own musical path.
The UK-based Pure Pleasure label continues it’s recent series of essential Tribe Records reissues with the re-release of Phil Ranelin’s 1974 avant-jazz masterpiece The Time Is Now!.
This past year, the Portuguese-based Mad About Records label released a much welcomed reissue of Erlon Chaves and Orquestra Saint Moritz’ highly obscure 1971 soundtrack to the Brazilian soft porn movie Procura-se Uma Virgem.
The German-based Agogo label has released a great new compilation highlighting a number of forward-thinking artists currently living in Europe, that are incorporating African-rooted traditions into their own music.
Early this week, flautist, saxophonist, producer and 22a label owner Tenderlonious (aka Ed Cawthorne) announced that a new Ruby Rushton album, titled Ironside, will be coming out this April.
Led by pianist Nitai Hershkovits, the Tel Aviv-based ensemble featuring newly signed Stones Throw recording artist and member of the Buttering Trio, Rejoicer, release their debut full-length record, More Than One Thing.
Ecuadorian producer and percussionist Nicola Cruz follows up his 2015 breakthrough debut Prender el Alma, with a great new recording that takes the listener on a spiritual journey inspired by indigenous South American musical roots.
The Bristol-based Ishmael Ensemble is joined by celebrated British-Bahraini trumpet player Yazz Ahmed on the third and final Severn Songs release.
This month, Bay Area’s Superior Viaduct label (who also run Stranded Records in Oakland & SF) has reissued saxophonist Joe McPhee’s 1971 free-willing jazz classic Nation Time.
Over the past few years, the London-based label On The Corner has been releasing some of the most innovative and forward-thinking electric jazz and Afro-futuristic dance recordings.
