The entire project is both spare and impossibly lush. While this may sound like a contradiction, it has everything to do with the virtuosic musicianship of pianist Art Hirahara and Jim Tomlinson, as well as Stacey's elegant and unadorned vocal approach. The opening track, Lucky To Be Me, works as an invitation to the theme of the album and uses the open space between vocal phrases to draw us in. And, while all of the tracks are worth an unadulterated listen, I'm going to list a few of my favorites, starting with La Javanaise, which is delivered with an almost offhanded musical precision and sung in Stacey's pitch-perfect French. The surprising warmth of Stacey's lower vocal range makes A Time For Love the intimate ballad it was meant to be. Jim's tenor sax does the same, so that his playing is the ideal complement to Stacey's voice. The entire album is a joy to listen to both musically and sonically. It was lovingly recorded and mixed by Jim (yet another of his talents) at their home studio in Virginia. - Cliff Goldmacher Stacey Kent is an American jazz singer in the mould of the greats, with a legion of fans, a host of honors and awards including a Grammy� nomination, album sales in excess of 2 million and more than one billion streams, and Platinum, Double-Gold, and Gold-selling albums that have reached a series of chart-topping positions. Stacey, a comparative literature graduate with a passion for music, travelled to Europe to further her studies after receiving her degree from Sarah Lawrence College in NY. Through a series of twists of fate, she found herself in London, where she enrolled in a graduate music program at the Guildhall School of Music and Drama, where she met her future husband and musical partner, Jim Tomlinson. Kent's musical journey began with childhood piano lessons. A keen ear and true voice led her to search out opportunities to express her love of music. However, nothing suggested the shift from the academic path to the one that propelled her to international recognition as one of the foremost jazz singers of her generation. With a catalogue of 13 studio albums, including the Platinum-selling, Grammy�-nominated Breakfast On The Morning Tram (Blue Note/EMI 2007) and an impressive list of collaborations, Stacey has graced the stages of nearly 60 countries over the course of her career. Her worldwide fan base is testimony to her ability to express the emotional heart of her songs with delicately nuanced interpretations that transcend borders and defy categorization. Her unique multi-lingual repertoire includes standards, chanson, Bossa Nova, and originals written by Jim Tomlinson, her saxophonist/producer/composer/arranger husband, in collaboration with the Nobel Prize-winning author Kazuo Ishiguro, with whom they have worked since 2006. She has also recorded with Brazilian legends Marcos Valle, Roberto Menescal, and Danilo Caymmi, and the celebrated French string quartet, the Quatuor �b�ne. Stacey's last studio album, Summer Me, Winter Me, was released in November 2023 on Na�ve Records. A collection of fans' requests from her as-yet unrecorded concert repertoire, Summer Me, Winter Me entered the French jazz charts at number 1 and has quickly established itself as a new highlight in her discography. She now returns with A Time For Love, set to appear on April 3rd, 2026.

GRAMMY-nominated drummer Nate Smith, known for his deep groove and genre-blending style, has worked with legends like Pat Metheny and Jose James, and wowed millions with his viral drum videos. Following acclaimed projects like KINFOLK: Postcards from Everywhere and Pocket Change, Smith returns with a new album, out August 29, continuing his journey through jazz, R&B, and beyond. Some of the most renowned names in the jazz scene have joined him on the project, including Lalah Hathaway, Michael League, Lionel Loueke, and more.

“Love Grows Deep” reunites vibraphonist Dick Sisto and pianist Fred Hersch in a luminous duo setting, drawing from their long musical friendship and the acclaimed 2001 concert at the Kentucky Center for the Arts. Sisto — a deeply melodic player shaped by Chicago’s golden age jazz scene and decades of artistic life in Louisville — finds an ideal partner in Hersch, whose lyricism and harmonic imagination have made him one of modern jazz’s most celebrated pianists. This hybrid release combines newly selected performances from the original Duo Live album with additional, previously unreleased material from the same concert. Originals by both artists sit alongside works by Wayne Shorter, Thelonious Monk, and Benny Carter, revealing a rapport marked by clarity, warmth, and effortless interplay. A quarter century after its recording, “Love Grows Deep” stands as a testament to two master musicians whose shared sensibility turns every piece into an intimate conversation.

Cornetist Kirk Knuffke, hailed as “one of modern jazz’s most skilled navigators of the divide between freedom and swing,” unveils another striking SteepleChase album this March. Following acclaimed projects like Cherryco, Tight Like This, Play Date, and Super Blonde, Knuffke again redefines ensemble possibilities with daring instrumentation and imaginative repertoire. His warm, distinctive cornet tone—played on the rare double shepherd’s-crook horn—anchors a program balancing tradition and innovation. Standards, early jazz gems, and soulful classics are transformed through collective improvisation, while Knuffke’s originals sparkle with wit and lyricism. Critics have praised his ability to honour past masters while sounding entirely himself. This new release continues that legacy: colourful, inventive, swinging, and deeply memorable. This new release confirms his stature and offers another dazzling chapter in his ongoing story. For longtime admirers, it is a welcome continuation; for newcomers, it is an ideal entry point into the world of a cornetist whose artistry bridges past and present, inside and outside, swing and freedom. “Cornetist Kirk Knuffke’s exquisite taste is long established. _at aesthetic has always arrived subtly and cleanly, as it does on this beguiling new album”. (Peter Margasak - Downbeat on SCCD31964 Super Bonde)

A Vibraphone Dialogue Like No Other. Glow, which is dedicated to the late vibraphone master Dave Samuels, is a landmark recording that redefines what’s possible in jazz vibraphone performance. Featuring two of the world’s most accomplished mallet percussionists—David Friedman and Tony Miceli—this album is not just a duet; it’s a revelation. It’s the first jazz album composed entirely of vibraphone duets, and it succeeds where others have hesitated: by solving the long-standing challenge of sonic overlap and range limitation. What sets Glow apart is its innovative approach to range and texture. The vibraphone, with its three-octave span, presents a unique challenge when paired with another of its kind. Historically, artists have sidestepped this issue by pairing vibes with marimba, which offers a broader tonal palette. But Friedman and Miceli dared to go where others faltered: two vibraphones, no safety net. Their solution? Instant arranging—a dynamic, real-time negotiation of register and role. If Miceli plays a melody in the upper octaves, Friedman anchors the sound in the lower range. If Miceli shifts to the middle, Friedman “sandwiches” him with left-hand bass and right-hand treble. This constant awareness of spatial and harmonic placement creates a rich, layered sound that feels orchestral despite the duo format. Each player adjusts not only to avoid clashing but to enhance the other’s voice. The result is a seamless interplay where melody, harmony, and rhythm breathe together.

Swedish bassist and composer Thommy Andersson makes his long-awaited SteepleChase leader debut with Shimmering Blue, a striking trio recording featuring Kirk Knuffke (cornet) and José Davila (helicon, tuba, didgeridoo, euphorium, and bass flute). Known for his work with Pierre Dørge’s New Jungle Orchestra, Andersson now steps forward with a highly personal sound world—drumless, low-brass rich, and full of lyrical nuance. Drawing on his background as a trombonist and cellist, Andersson crafts compositions that shimmer with color and emotional depth. From rustic tone poems to avant-garde textures, the album explores space, resonance, and melodic interplay with chamber-like intimacy. Critics have praised his “supremely weighted bass playing” and ability to “facilitate exalted music.” Shimmering Blue is a bold, poetic statement from a seasoned artist—grounded in Nordic tradition, yet open to global textures and sonic surprise.

Following the critical acclaim of The Talisman (SCCD 31955), alto saxophonist Dave Pietro returns with The Butterfly Effect, his second release on SteepleChase—a label that has become a vital platform for his richly inventive voice. A veteran of ensembles led by Maria Schneider, Toshiko Akiyoshi, and Gil Evans, Pietro continues to command attention as a composer and bandleader whose work is both intellectually rigorous and emotionally resonant. Returning collaborators include pianist Gary Versace, whose kaleidoscopic soloing adds depth and color, and bassist Jay Anderson, whose expressive lines anchor the group with elegance. Trumpeter Scott Wendholt and drummer Adam Cruz round out the lineup, each contributing dynamic performances that elevate Pietro’s compositions. His writing is marked by intricate counterpoint, unexpected harmonic shifts, and a deep sensitivity to ensemble interplay. Pietro’s music balances complexity with clarity. The Butterfly Effect is more than a follow-up—it’s a statement of artistic evolution. Where The Talisman introduced Pietro’s voice to a broader audience, this new release deepens the narrative, offering a compelling blend of lyrical beauty, structural sophistication, and improvisational fire. “Pietro has great chops and a profound imagination, and possesses a warm, accessible, lyrical sound...” ( Lee Lowenfish - New York Jazz Newsletter)

SteepleChase Records proudly presents the debut album of drummer Matt Garrity, a long-standing figure in the New York jazz scene whose artistry has matured over three decades of collaboration with legends such as Joe Lovano, Vincent Herring, and Joel Forrester. Suits And Scotches captures the essence of Garrity’s musical journey, featuring original compositions and fresh interpretations of jazz standards performed by his seasoned quartet which delivers a cohesive and swinging set that reflects both tradition and innovation. Garrity’s path diverged from the 1990s “Young Lions” wave, yet his commitment to the craft never wavered. After relocating to Woodstock, NY, (originally from Ithaca, NY) he founded Barnstock, a vibrant performance space that has become a Hudson Valley jazz hub. Encouraged by bassist Ambrosio and connected to SteepleChase producer Nils Winther, Garrity finally steps forward as a leader and composer. “Drummer Matt Garrity, always fluidly shifting from staccato fill patterns to soft accompaniments in just the way the composition seems to need.” -All Music Guide

Award-winning trumpeter/composer/arranger Jason Palmer, a fixture of the Boston jazz scene and frequent SteepleChase recording artist, presents his boldest artistic statement to date with this intimate duo recording. Shorter Songs marks Palmer’s first commercially released duo album and pays homage to jazz legend Wayne Shorter through a series of original contrafacts based on Shorter’s compositions. Joined by acclaimed pianist Kevin Harris—his longtime musical ally—Palmer explores the emotional and harmonic depth of Shorter’s writing while bringing his own contemporary sensibilities into play. “Palmer has proven to be one of the most compelling artists of his generation.” (Ken Dryden – NYC Jazz Record)

Twenty years after their acclaimed trilogy, Eric Rasmussen and his long-standing quartet return with School of Tristano 4—a revelatory deep dive into the compositions and aesthetics of Lennie Tristano, Lee Konitz, and Warne Marsh, paired with striking originals. Drawing from decades of study, stage experience, and personal connection, Rasmussen’s quartet reinvents this rich, often-underrepresented repertoire with stunning clarity, warmth, and spontaneity. While the album brims with telepathic interplay and ensemble finesse, Rasmussen’s alto saxophone sings with a personal voice, never imitative, always rooted in the language of deep jazz tradition but reaching forward. Guitarist Nate Radley, bassist Dave Ambrosio, and drummer Mark Ferber bring unmatched sensitivity, groove, and lyrical depth. School of Tristano 4 offers both serious jazz heads and adventurous listeners a fresh insight into classic modernist repertoire—an album that resonates with the spirit of Tristano while speaking entirely in the quartet’s own voice.

Renowned Russian jazz pianist Ivan Farmakovskiy makes his highly anticipated debut on SteepleChase Records with a stunning new album. Blending his signature hard-bop style with modern jazz sensibilities, Farmakovskiy delivers a masterful performance that bridges tradition and innovation with American rhythm section of Christian McBride and Jack DeJohnette. Ivan won the 1994 bi-annual Russia Jazz Competition, the biggest contest for young Russian performers and he won another prize at the 1997 Europe Jazz Contest in Belgium.

RVB Quartet They bring a mix between rock and jazz which results in a refreshing sound. Interaction, improvisation and groove are the main ingredients that ensure vibrant compositions and crisp live performances. Hamabiwa The quartet feels like kings when they can play like children and let loose on their instruments. Hazel, Bibi, Marius (the little one) and Walt are the inspiration for this album.

For over four decades, Danish guitarist and composer Pierre Dørge has pushed the boundaries of jazz with a highly personal voice—combining Nordic lyricism with global rhythms, and crafting what critics call “pan-cultural jazz.” On Songs for Mbizo, Dørge returns in a stripped-down quartet setting that showcases his singular tone and spiritual depth, this time in tribute to South African bassist Johnny “Mbizo” Dyani, whose legacy courses through Dørge’s music like a vibrant thread. Following celebrated small-group releases such as Ballad Round the Left Corner and Blui, this new live recording features Kirk Knuffke (cornet), Thommy Andersson (electric bass), and Martin Andersen (drums)—a dynamic international lineup that breathes fresh intensity into Dyani’s compositions.

Using different settings and combinations of saxophone, modular synths, EWI, drums and electronics, Jeroen and Stephane experience live music in an interactive context. The multiple horns, overdubs, drums and electronics are the platform for exhilarating dialogues about themes and metrics. The result is both heady and groovy, music that can be analyzed or danced to.

Jaggat is a band that builds virtuosic sound bridges between chamber jazz and musical traditions from around the globe. Spanish, Indian, Arabic, African, and Latin American influences merge into a powerful and cohesive sonic tapestry, transcending cultural boundaries. The name�Jaggat-derived from Sanskrit for "world"-reflects the ensemble's mission: uniting the rich sounds of diverse cultures into a captivating musical journey rooted in openness and respect for diversity. Their new album demonstrates how tolerance and cultural exchange can give rise to something truly new and beautiful-in music as in society. By weaving together global rhythms, melodies, and traditions, Jaggat creates a sound that is unmistakably their own. At the heart of this musical dialogue are original compositions by guitarist�Markus Conrad�and double bassist�Caspar van Meel, seamlessly intertwined yet unmistakably marked by their individual voices. Percussionist�Afra Mussawisade�enriches the music with his unique instrumentation, laying down both a vibrant groove and a refined sonic foundation. Whether performing as a trio or expanding into a quartet with guest violinist�Christoph Konig, Jaggat unfolds a colorful and wide-ranging spectrum of sound. Their music reveals that diversity not only enriches but also inspires.

With over 30 leader/co-leader albums on SteepleChase, Andy LaVerne stands as one of jazz’s most quietly fearless innovators. His new project, Crystal Night, expands the dynamic chemistry of his acclaimed trio—bassist Mike Richmond and drummer Jason Tiemann—by adding vibraphone’s rising star Sasha Berliner, whose artistry evokes the spirit of Bobby Hutcherson and Gary Burton while charting her own path. This quartet offering features ten newly written LaVerne compositions, each meticulously designed to explore subtle harmonic colors, metric shifts, and emotional depth. From the title track’s crystalline lyricism to the explosive energy of “Power Play” and the gently introspective “Second Thoughts,” Crystal Night is a study in texture, trust, and ensemble clarity. “If you haven’t known Andy LaVene ever, This ine is a perfect introduction. It’s lyrical, musicaly intensive and most eloquent.” (Ole Mayyiemen – Jazz Special on SCCD 31818 Genesis)

This album celebrates how tolerance and cultural exchange can lead to something new and beautiful, both in music and society. In every culture, the soul finds new ways to dance. Step into the circle-where sound is not judged, but joined. "Playing in a trio like this has been a dream of mine for a long time. I've always been fascinated by music from all sorts of cultures. With Jaggat, we're blending genres in a way that feels really natural - it's not just a patchwork. There are rich harmonies, beautiful melodies, cool grooves, and some odd meters thrown in. I love that it all comes together as one cohesive sound." - CASPAR VAN MEEL "Jaggat is a unique blend of various musical styles-including classical music, jazz, world music, flamenco, and Indian music-all fused into a tasteful and vibrant m�lange. It was a great joy to play and record this album with these fantastic musicians." - Markus Conrad "Music is a reflection on our society and the times we live in. These compositions express how we live nowadays in Europe. All cultures are represented and are melting in a beautiful way, at least in art and music. That's what I love about this project!" - AFRA MUSSAWISADE

Saxophonist-composer Chris Byars, praised as a modern master of ensemble writing and conceptual storytelling, delivers new album The Dark Forest—his fifteenth release on SteepleChase and perhaps his most introspective to date. Byars’ signature Original Jazz Sextet achieves remarkable harmonic and emotional depth through intricate voicings and counterpoint. Critics have celebrated Byars as a visionary of new bop vocabulary. His previous albums like Boptics and Rhythm and Blues of the 20s drew accolades for their smart, infectious writing and engaging solo showcases. “… he knows his musicians so well, Byars is masterful in his writing, blending the reeds and trombone in intricate ensembles while letting the soloists all shine throughout.” (Ken Dryden – New York City Jazz Record on SCCD 31929)

Veteran bassist Scott Lee, renowned for his innovative compositions and masterful performances, brings a fresh and dynamic energy to this his fourth release on SteepleChase. Lee’s vision of the bass as a melodic force, alongside pianist Vazquez and drummer Hirshfield, pushes the narrative in unexpected directions. Since moving to NY in the late 70s. Lee has worked with Chet Baker, Lee Konitz, Zoot Simms, Al Cohn, Freddie Hubbard, Red Rodney, Kenny Werner, Joe Lovano to mention a few. Bill Smith of JazzTimes comments on One Thought (SCCD 31687) ,” Leader and bassist Scott Lee offers simple yet thought-provoking music …. Those who feel that jazz is losing its creative edge should hear this album and other basically mainstream offerings of the last few years .”

For his debut leader project on SteepleChase, Bollenback chose a bold and distinct approach, opting for a guitar and bass duo format. Teaming up with bassist Boris Kozlov, a three-time Grammy winner. Bollenback explores new musical territories with a mix of original compositions by Bollenback and Kozlov, along with jazz standards that highlight their exceptional musical connection and rhythmic synergy. Renowned for his versatility and dynamism on the guitar, Bollenback's unique approach to jazz and blues has earned him accolades from legends like George Benson, who praised him as a "versatile dynamo on guitar." Over the years, Bollenback has collaborated with numerous jazz greats, including organist Joey DeFrancesco, appearing on nineteen of his albums and earning a Grammy nomination for co-producing 2011's Never Can Say Goodbye.