Last year, Tigran Hamasyan composed his greatest work, inspired by a traditional Armenian tale of the same name: The Bird of a Thousand Voices, is rediscovering this story in a transmedia project, consisting of an innovative livestaged play (world premiere at the Holland Festival on June 8, 2024), two ambitious cinematic fiction music videos, a documentary music video and an online game. The original story of the firebird has been orally transmitted over the centuries and cultures. The folk tale requires a multi-layered, transdisciplinary approach to provide an artistic context for this fascinating story. The mystical bird of a thousand voices is a beautiful metaphor of our times: a world in search of connection and harmony, faced with ecological, psychological and spiritual crises. Any form of recognition and new means of transmitting this beautiful music of the ancient traditions of the Caucasus is therefore important and sets the tone for world curiosity and diversity. "The Bird Of A Thousand Voices" is part of this context. Tigran is one of the most remarkable jazz pianists and composers of his generation. He combines improvisation with the rich traditional music of his native Armenia. Ten years ago, Tigran and award-winning filmmaker Ruben Van Leer met during a collaboration at the Cite de la Musique in Paris, creating "Shadow Theater", a visual musical experience (see ARTE broadcast). They went on to create several music videos together (see Cave of Rebirth & Fides Tua). Armenian culture, geopolitically situated between globalized powers such as Russia, Turkey and Azerbaijan, has been under pressure for centuries. Most recently, in September 2023, Azerbaijan took over Armenian territory. Right after, almost the entire population was expelled from the mountainous region of Nagorno-Karabakh as part of an "ethnic cleansing", in the words of the European Parliament. Azerbaijan is now expressly ordering the burning of ancient historical manuscripts in Armenian monasteries. Deluxe 2CD box set with 2 superb illustrated booklets (60 pages in total).

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.

At the heart of this project lies "I Loves You, Porgy," a timeless composition from George Gershwin's 1935 folk opera Porgy and Bess. The melody, built on just five simple notes, is unforgettable-a testament to Gershwin's genius. Inspired by it's charm, we decided to center our album around this piece. While "I Loves You, Porgy" has been a staple for countless jazz musicians, our approach was not merely to improvise on it. Instead, we aimed to create "variants"-transformative interpretations that grew from this iconic piece. It's a unique exploration inspired by Geroge Gershwin.

The origin of this album goes back to Texas in the early 90s where young baritone student Frank Basile at North Texas Univ. met for the first time his hero baritonist Gary Smulyan. Their friendship culminates here in a studio date in NJ in late 2023. “I was really just so happy to be there playing with him” declares Smulyan the mentor. “His passionate sound and fresh ideas make Alternative Contrafacts a set well worth picking up, particularly by straightahead jazz collectors.” (S. Yanow – NYCJR)

When the bassist Mike Richmond utters the magic line “Spot on!” at the ending of the recording of track 5 of this album, the album title was decided. You can actually hear it on the disc. This is Andy LaVerne’s 36th outing as leader on this label. Our collaboration goes back to 1977 when he was touring Europe with Stan Getz. Since then he has been presenting uniquely creative albums. This new release starts with a homage to McCoy and ends with one to Chick both of whom passed away last year.

Primal Colors brings together the best of two worlds-the improvisational energy of jazz performed by the Frankfurt Radio Big Band and the majestic grandeur of classical music from the Frankfurt Radio Symphony. This synergy is masterfully balanced to preserve the unique character of both genres. Each track showcases incredible solo performances from members of the Big Band and Symphony. Jim McNeely is an award-winning jazz composer known for his innovative approaches. "Primal Colors" further cements his reputation as a visionary artist who blends abstract concepts with rich musicality.

Delve into the heart of naval tradition and innovation as you explore original compositions meticulously crafted by the talented members of the U.S. Navy Band Commodores Jazz Ensemble. Just as the Navy's ships and aircraft require the unified efforts of its diverse crew to operate seamlessly, each track on this CD reflects the harmonious synergy of individual artistry and collective devotion to musical excellence.

This live album brings together two legendary Parisian concerts, recorded in 1956 and 1961, that capture all the explosive energy and contagious enthusiasm of a "Lion" at the peak of his glory. These dynamite performances are a testament to the boundless generosity of one of the most formidable entertainers in jazz history, an artist capable of transforming a simple concert into a true show. The listener is carried away by Hampton's infectious enthusiasm and the powerful swing of his big band. It's dance jazz at it's zenith. - Patrick Frémeaux The Live in Paris collection by Michel Brillié allows listeners to hear previously unreleased recordings (made at concerts, private-, or radio-sessions) by the great 20th century stars in jazz, rock & roll and song. These "live" takes, and the artists' rapport with their audiences, give these performances an additional soul and sensibility in counterpoint to the rigorous demands of studio recordings. Particular care was taken when restoring the sound of these tapes in order to meet CD standards while preserving the original colours of the period. - Patrick Frémeaux & Gilles Pétard

This album is all about Tadd Dameron (1917 - 65), one of the most important American jazz composer/musicians. The master baritone saxophonist and perennial pole winner Gary Smulyan conceived the brilliant idea of recording Dameron compositions with lyrics. The vocal part is phenomenally rendered by the young talent Anaïs Reno. Three songs including the lovely This Night Of Stars have hitherto never been recorded. “While Smulyan solos brilliantly throughout, Reno is the real treat here.” (Bill Milkowski – DownBeat on SCCD 31936). “Smulyan here brings to light Dameron’s heretofore unknown Library of Congress trove of standard-quality off-Broadway gems.” (Fred Bouchard – NYCJR on SCCD 31936) 180g Audiophile Vinyl

Avant de devenir le maestro des bandes originales cultes comme Mission: Impossible ou Bullitt, Lalo Schifrin etait un virtuose du piano et un grand innovateur du jazz et de la bossa nova. Avec un sens de l'arrangement dejà exceptionnel, il arrange et compose pour Dizzy Gillespie ou Quincy Jones. Ce coffret 3 CD, realise par Olivier Julien reunit les premiers enregistrements publies sous son nom et nous plonge dans les debuts eclatants d'un jeune pianiste de jazz argentin lumineux, en passe de devenir l'un des plus grands compositeurs d'Hollywood. Patrick FReMEAUX Before he became the maestro of iconic film scores like Mission: Impossible or Bullitt, Lalo Schifrin was already a piano virtuoso and a major innovator in jazz and bossa nova. With an already exceptional knack for arrangement, he arranged and composed for Dizzy Gillespie and Quincy Jones. Curated by Olivier Julien, this 3-CD box set brings together the first recordings released under Schifrin's name, offering a captivating glimpse into the brilliant early days of a young, luminous Argentine jazz pianist on the cusp of becoming one of Hollywood's greatest composers. Patrick FReMEAUX CD1 : RENDEZ-VOUS DANSANT À COPACABANA AVEC LALO SCHIFRIN, SON PIANO ET SES RYTHMES - MOULIN ROUGE - LES OIGNONS - FASCINATION - CABELLO ROJO - MON HOMME - MAMBOP - PIGALLE - SeReNADE MeDITERRANeENNE. SPECTRUM - RED SAILS IN THE SUNSET - AZURE - THE MOON WAS YELLOW - RUBY - BLACK BEAUTY - WHEN THE WIND WAS GREEN - BROWN PRELUDE - WHITE ORCHIDS - BLUE IS THE NIGHT - SCARLET RIBBONS (FOR HER HAIR) - PURPLE PASTEL. CD2 : PIANO ESPAÑOL - FRENESI - THE BREEZE AND I - CAPRICHO ESPAÑOL - MY SHAWL - CARAVAN - MALAGUENA - CHA CHA CHA FLAMENCO - WARSAW CONCERTO - HULABLUES - JUNGLE FANTASY - ALL THE THINGS YOU ARE - EL CUMBANCHERO. LALO = BRILLIANCE (THE PIANO OF LALO SCHIFRIN) - THE SNAKE'S DANCE - AN EVENING IN SAO PAULO - DESAFINADO - KUSH - RHYTHM-A-NING - MOUNT OLIVE - CUBANO BE - SPHAYROS. CD3 : BOSSA NOVA, NEW BRASILIAN JAZZ - BOATO - CHORA TUA TRISTEZA - POEMA DO ADEUS - APITO NO SAMBA - CHEGA DE SAUDADE - BOSSA EM NOVA YORK - O AMOR E A ROSA - O MENINO DESCE O MORRO - MENINA FEIA - OUcA - SAMBA DE UMA NOTA SO - PATINHO FEIO (UGLY DUCKLING). PIANO, STRINGS AND BOSSA NOVA - THE WAVE - INSENSATEZ - YOU AND ME (VOCE E EU) - LALO'S BOSSA NOVA (SAMBA PARA DOS) - SILVIA - MURMURIO (MURMUR) - MARIA - RAPAZ DE BEM - SAMBA NO PERROQUET (PARROT SAMBA) - RIO AFTER DARK - TIME FOR LOVE - I'm LOOKING OVER A FOUR-LEAF CLOVER. BONUS CD3 : QUINCY JONES ET LALO SCHIFRIN - SOUL BOSSA NOVA - LALO BOSSA NOVA. DIRECTION ARTISTIQUE : OLIVIER JULIEN

De l'implacable Fingertips aux furieuses reprises de l'oncle Ray, cette anthologie regroupe entre autres les deux premiers albums de Stevie Wonder. Appele alors Little Stevie, ce genie precoce de 12 ans, egerie de la Tamla Motown, tape fort et pose les premieres pierres de la revolution soul ! Patrick FReMEAUX From his relentless "Fingertips" to the frenzied reruns of Uncle Ray's music, this anthology brings together (among others!) the contents of Stevie Wonder's first two albums, made when he was known as "Little Stevie". At the time, he was already a genius (at the age of twelve) and he became Tamla Motown's muse, a hard-hitting keyboardist who laid the foundations of the Soul revolution. Patrick FReMEAUX THE JAZZ SOUL OF LITTLE STEVIE : FINGERTIPS - SQUARE - SOUL BONGO - MANHATTAN AT SIX - PAULSBY - SOME OTHER TIME - WONDERING - SESSION NUMBER 112 - BAM. TRIBUTE TO UNCLE RAY : HALLELUJAH I LOVE HER SO - AIN't THAT LOVE - DON't YOU KNOW - THE MASQUERADE - FRANKIE & JOHNNY - DROWN IN MY OWN TEARS - COME BACK BABY - MARY ANN - SUNSET - MY BABY'S GONE. 45T : I CALL IT PRETTY MUSIC, BUT THE OLD PEOPLE CALL IT THE BLUES (PART 1) - I CALL IT PRETTY MUSIC, BUT THE OLD PEOPLE CALL IT THE BLUES (PART 2) - LA LA LA LA LA - LITTLE STEVIE WONDER & CLARENCE PAUL - LITTLE WATER BOY - CONTRACT ON LOVE - SUNSET. DIRECTION ARTISTIQUE : OLIVIER JULIEN

Magnificently iconic tenor player to come out of the post-Swing Era Eddie Lockjaw Davis (1922-1986) cut two albums for SteepleChase during his late years. This album was recorded in 1983 in Copenhagen, which earned superlative reviews all over the world. “Tenorman Eddie "Lockjaw" Davis had already been a potent force in jazz for 35 years when he recorded this set but as it turned out his SteepleChase date (his next-to-last session) was one of the strongest of his career. Accompanied by a trio led by pianist Kenny Drew, Lockjaw really tears into these standards which are highlighted by "I Only Have Eyes for You," "There Is No Greater Love" (the alternate version was released for the first time on its CD reissue), "Four" and the title cut. Davis was at the peak of his powers during this recording, making this SteepleChase outing one of his very best.” (Scott Yanow – AllMusic) “Nothing valedictory about this date. No signs of decline. It’s hard to believe it was Jaw’s last album as a leader. Just the thing if you didn’t miss your water until your well went dry.” (Cadence) 180g Audiophile Vinyl

It is safe to say that the latter half of Dexter Gordon’s European years (1961-1976) found him most inspired and productive. This album recorded in a Copenhagen studio in September of 1975 precedes to Gordon’s most publicised homecoming to the States. With his favourite rhythm section of Montoliu, NHØP and Billy Higgins Dexter is in his pinnacle. It is also noteworthy to know that this is the only studio recording Dexter Gordon and the formidable Catalonian pianist made together. “... Today, more than 30 years after he made his first dates for Savoy, he is playing better than ever... From the opener, Billie’s Bounce, the record settles into a beautiful groove and the interest never lets up...” (Mike Hennessey, Jazz Journal International) “…Almost all Nils Winther’s Danish SteepleChase label releases have been better than the CBS albums, and this is certainly no exception.” (Michigan State News) 180g Audiophile Vinyl

The title "Awaking" carries a double significance. On the one hand, it refers to the musical awakening that marks my artistic journey; on the other, it reflects the collective awakening that marked the end of the Corona pandemic. I hope that "Awaking" reflects not just the sound of my music, but my appreciation of all the people who have shared this creative path with me.

Stratus is the stunning new quartet album from violinist Zach Brock and pianist Phil Markowitz, joined by Finnish jazz standouts Jaska Lukkarinen and Ville Herrala. Recorded in the peaceful setting of Sipoo, Finland, the album blends lyrical improvisation, intricate composition, and intuitive interplay into a cohesive, deeply expressive whole. From lush ballads to dynamic rhythmic journeys, Stratus showcases the quartet's chamber-like sensitivity and jazz-rooted spontaneity. Brock and Markowitz, building on their earlier collaboration Perpetuity, offer a seamless musical conversation elevated by a rhythm section that listens and leads in equal measure. A rich, genre-blurring project, Stratus is both intimate and expansive an exploration of sound grounded in trust, nuance, and shared vision.

Masterfully arranged unity of trio and string quartet. Fresh and smooth: new album by the German jazz man from Switzerland. "Caravan", a petal and the women: Joe Haider bows before them. Swinging dreams: old master Joe Haider at his best.

Referring to a musical work of the century such as George Gershwin's popular opera "Porgy and Bess" entails enormous risks. This is especially the case when this popular work has spawned many ubiquitous song classics. Hans Ludemann also believes: "You have to have a good reason to tackle this" and, of course, a coherent concept for a new, own approach. This has succeeded brilliantly with "Porgy's Dream". The very personal homage of Ludemann and trumpeter Reiner Winterschladen is not content with competent interpretations in the usual jazz style. The duo is based on selected themes and unfolds an intense atmosphere in it's freely interpreted pieces, which thoroughly lives up to the original work.

When the album by this unlikely duet of Shepp and Parlan playing hymns and spirituals came out in 1978 for the first time, it was an instant success and has become a classic since then. It is a success of unique theme (by the producer Nils Winther) and of sheer strength of musical material and of performance executed with grace and sensitivity. “...an overwhelming and emotional listening experience.” (Atlanta Journal Weekend) 180g Audiophile Vinyl

Three years after the sensational spiritual recording by this duo “Goin’ Home” (SCCD 31079) producer Nils Winther had Archie and Horace in the studio again. The theme this time was traditional blues. Once again the Shepp-Parlan duo made one of the best-selling SteepleChase releases. England’s Gramophone magazine called the duo “a powerful and ultimately inspirational collaboration”. This recording was awarded the Deutscher Schallplattenpreis for Modern Jazz Und Jazz-Rock of 1982 by the prestigious Deutsche Phono Akademie. 180g Audiophile Vinyl

“...Witchdoctor’s Son contains the most infectious, buoyant, gleeful music...the interaction between Pukwana and Tchicai’s vastly differing phrase sensibilities is one of the joys of this recording...” (Lange, Down Beat) “...from Dyani’s most consistently inventive period...” (The Penguin Guide To JAZZ)

“Biting The Apple” recorded in NYC in the midst of Dexter’s great come back to the USA was awarded the Grand Prix du Disque Diamant of 1978 by the Montreux Jazz Festival.

The First Lady of jazz, Mary Lou Williams (1910 - 1981) was the evolution of jazz itself. Starting her professional career as pianist/composer/arranger in the 20s, her style was swing but in the 40s she adopted the bop and later on she even ventured into the realm of avant-garde jazz. Yet she never lost her blues feeling which is evident in this CD. She contributed compositions and arrangements for many famous big bands such as Andy Kirk, Benny Goodman, Earl Hines, Duke Ellington. In the late 60s and the 70s she was more focused on composing sacred music. And one of her jazz masses was choreographed by Alvin Ailey. Around the time of this recording Mary Lou in her mid-60s was still active in the New York jazz scene performing regularly at the Cookery with the group recorded here. SteepleChase was proud to have the opportunity of recording one of the most significant artists of jazz of this century.

Roger “Buck” Hill (1927-2017) was a full-time employee of a Washington D.C. post office when his much-acclaimed debut album was released from SteepleChase in 1978. Since then this legendary tenorman has invested more of his time in the musical activities and has regularly brought his band to the enthusiastic European audience. He otherwise performed after work at local live spots, sometimes with visiting artists such as Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Max Roach, among others. “Buck Hill is one of the most notable ‘regional’ jazzmen in America … SteepleChase albums feature Hill with two different rhythm sections, … each winds up with the same result: honest, proficient blowing that has its individual clout…” (The Penguin Guide to Jazz)

This was the first appearance of the popular Clifford Jordan & The Magic Triangle (alias The Cedar Walton Trio) on SteepleChase. (Other releases are SCCD 31047 “Highest Mountain” and SCCD 31104 “On Stage vol. 3”.) “...a truly fine quartet recording.” (MM)

Recorded in NYC November 1988, this album is the first of the series of recordings SteepleChase undertook after a few years of pause from the New York recording scene. Saxophonist Gary Bartz returned to acoustic hard-bop around that time from fusion jazz having played in the 70’s Miles Davis group. “Gary Bartz convinces you his incisive alto would have fit with Monk himself - his ear-catching post-Bird cry, rhythmic snap and blues-sense would have put him in the pocket...he treats the material with the honour it deserves and the spirit it demands.” (Kevin Whitehead, Cadence)

“Frozen Music” was recorded in New York City 32 years ago and like most of Andy LaVerne’s releases this album has not lost its original energy and charm. Tenor and soprano saxophonist Rick Margitza was then a young rising star under contract with Blue Note. Andy was already a prolific composer who penned all the tunes of this album. Bassist Marc Johnson who was a member of Bill Evans’s last trio gave graceful and subtle coloring to LaVerne’s compositions. “Frozen Music, Andy LaVerne’s third album for SteepleChase, is a solid, modern blowing session...he makes skilful use of suspensions, pedal points, and ostinatos, which along with the music’s floating harmonies, give the soloists a wealth of elbow room...” (Mark Stryker, Cadence) “un disque du plus haut niveau musical.” (Henri Marchal – Spectacles)

Live On Tour In The Far East, Vol. 2

Dexter In Radioland vol. 7 The seventh and last volume of live transmission from the 60’s captures the exuberant atmosphere of the legendary ‘Dexter nights’ at Montmartre. “...The music here, recorded for Danish radio. all comes form 1964, when Dexter was at...the zenith of his career and probably the happiest time of his life...” (Steve Voce, Jazz FM)

Classical Music

Limited 180gm vinyl LP pressing in gatefold jacket. The first of Sonny's albums for Impulse!, this 1965 collection caught Rollins at the peak of his creative powers, and is arguably the tenor hero's best for the label-an intense, freewheeling set, featuring classic takes on "On Green Dolphin Street" and "Three Little Words" in the company of Ray Bryant (piano), Walter Booker (bass) and Mickey Roker (drums).