“Don Friedman is probably playing better now than at any other period of his splendid career. Maturity has brought a deepening of emotional expression, a refinement of touch and the knowledge of exactly how much he wants to say within a given performance……On this beautifully conceived and executed CD, Don is in the bright company of three musicians who share his aims and ideals, and hold true to the tenets of balancing spontaneity with organisational clarity and discipline…” (Mark Gardner – linernotes)
The collaboration between Duke Jordan and SteepleChase in the 70s represents a major body of Duke Jordan’s creative output both as performing artist and as composer.
Duke led his regular trio with Wilbur Little and Dannie Richmond during the extensive Scandinavian tour in the autumn of 1978. This release is from the concert at the Art Museum at Høvikodden, Norway, filled with Duke Jordan’s melodic magic.
Best-known for her classic 1955 Top 10 hit "Cry Me A River", Julie London was a fine sultry-voiced jazz and pop singer, who enjoyed her greatest popularity during the "cool" era of the late '50s and early '60s - Billboard magazine named her as the most popular female vocalist of 1955, '56 and '57. Although she sang as a child with her parents' vaudeville act on radio, the first decade of her career from 1945 was as a Hollywood movie actress, becoming a popular pin-up girl of GIs, and appearing with the likes of Gary Cooper. Beginning her recording career in 1955, she scored a hit with her first release for Liberty, "Cry Me A River", and over subsequent years released around twenty singles for the label, as well as having a regular output of concept albums, showcasing her smoky and sensuous vocal style with a mixture of sophisticated pop and mainstream jazz material. This great-value 58-track 2-CD collection comprises her debut recordings on an EP recorded for the Bethlehem label (the tracks were later released as singles by Liberty), and all her A and B sides for Liberty through to 1962, some of which came from her LP releases, plus selected tracks from the seventeen albums she released during those first important years of her recording career. As well as "Cry Me A River", it includes what was one of her best-known recordings, her vocal version of the jazz cha-cha "Desafinado (Slightly Out of Tune)" from 1962. "Cry Me A River" has been revived by many high-profile artists over the years. Julie London is an artist who has not received the accolades she deserved as a sophisticated jazz/pop singer to compare with the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan and Peggy Lee, and this collection will help underline her distinctive talent.
Jazzhus Montmartre in the summer of 1965 Dexter Gordon spent most of his evenings performing at Jazzhus Montmartre packed with his loyal fans. This is the fourth volume from those unforgettable five evenings taped by the Danish Radio and made available for the broader audience for the first time by SteepleChase.
“…. absolutely essential live transcriptions…” (Mark Gardner)
In his new album “Lookin’ Up” Dick Oatts teams up with his colleague and friend of 34 years, veteran trombonist John Mosca.
Dick Oatts notes, “I’ve always liked the way alto sax and trombone blend together and I’ve always been meaning to do a CD with John but the music was never quite right for it. So I sat down over the holiday break and wrote the music around John, the alto and the trombone.”
Derek Taylor of Master of a Small House describes Dick Oatts’ previous release “Two Hearts (SCCD 31694) as “testament to Oatts’ improvisatory powers”.
A brilliant sequel to the highly acclaimed Standard Issue (SCCD 31439) of 1998, this volume has a welcome addition of pianist Harold Danko on three of the five tracks. In the warm atmosphere of live house, the band gets extra energy from the appreciative audiences. Dick Oatts’ personal sound on alto sax (and tenor sax on one track) is once again a real treat for all listeners.
Ella Fitzgerald's "Songbook" records - with her peerless renditions of the best songs from iconic composers from Irving Berlin to Rogers & Hart to Cole Porter to George & Ira Gershwin - are the cornerstone of the Verve catalog and the standard for jazz vocal recordings. Ella never released a live version of these Songbooks. This record, discovered in the private collection of Norman Granz, will make the first time a live Songbook has been released from the First Lady of Song.
Limited 180gm vinyl LP pressing in gatefold jacket. After appearing together at an all-star concert the night before, Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong went into an L.A. studio to record this gem of an album. Despite having little to no time for rehearsals, the sublime artistic mastery of Ella and Louis and the instant chemistry they achieved resulted in one of the few truly indispensable recordings in all of jazz. Verve's Acoustic Sounds Series features transfers from analog tapes.
Double 180gm vinyl LP pressing housed in gatefold jacket. The duo that critics have called "a match made in heaven" are in peak form on the sequel to their 1956 debut. Ella's voice - warm and sweet as honey - and Louis' gravelly croon formed a sound built for commercial success. Ella & Louis Again is a key element of what could be considered the most iconic jazz duo of all time. Verve Acoustic Sounds Series features transfers from analog tapes.
Simply put, Samara Joy is next. At just 22 years old, her Verve debut 'Linger Awhile' shows that with a voice, tone, and phrasing that harkens back to the most legendary jazz vocalists, Samara belongs in the company of iconic labelmates from Ella Fitzgerald to Sarah Vaughan to Billie Holiday. Samara is remarkably savvy on TikTok and Instagram, fostering a community of devoted followers through fully organic means. She is poised to be a household name, synonymous with timeless jazz music.
The unforgettable sound of Sarah Vaughan is captured in this collection of essential recordings. From the swinging hits, "Lullaby Of Birdland" and "It's Crazy", to her best-loved recordings, including "Misty" and "Broken-Hearted Melody", this album highlights Vaughan's impeccable phrasing, emotional depth and remarkable range. Whether backed by a trio or a full orchestra, singing hits of the day or jazz standards, every track serves to remind us why Sarah Vaughan is still known as 'The Divine One'.
LET NO MAN WRITE MY EPITAPH (VERVE ACOUSTIC SOUND)
VERVE
Vinyl
$42.49Oct 27, 2023
Ella Fitzgerald - "Let No Man Write My Epitaph (Verve Acoustic Sounds Series)" - Verve Label Group; Jazz; Considered one of Ella's greatest recordings, she's backed on this 1960 release by pianist Paul Smith. Let No Man Write My Epitaph was a 1960 Hollywood movie featuring Fitzgerald. The album hits at a rare depth of emotional understanding and once again establishes Fitzgerald as one of the supreme interpreters of the Great American Songbook. Verve's Acoustic Sounds Series features transfers from analog tapes and remastered 180-gram vinyl in deluxe gatefold packaging.
Jazz critic Owen Cordle once described Dick Oatts as “an uncompromising jazz musician, one who possesses monster chops without trumpeting them.” Dick Oatts has, since his move to NYC in the late 70s, been one of the most sought-after soloists on alto sax on both the NY scene and the international stage. Dick Oatts’ sensitive and cerebral approach to music enhanced by his “monster chops” manifested here again on his 11th leader album on SteepleChase.
“… maybe the best showcase we've ever heard for the alto sax work of Dick Oatts!” (Dusty Groove on Sweet Nowhere SCCD 31778)
Nina Simone - "Nina's Back" / Recorded in 1985 after a break from recording and time spent living in Barbados and Liberia, Nina's Back features a rejuvenated Nina Simone reaching out to a wider musical audience. Featuring a number of memorable Simone compositions, the band includes horns and backup singers for a unique recording in Nina's catalog. Now available again on vinyl with new album artwork.
Diana Krall - "The Look Of Love (Verve Acoustic Sounds Series)" / The Look of Love is a lush, cinematic collection of ballads and bossa nova tunes, produced by Tommy LiPuma, arranged and conducted by the legendary Claus Ogerman, and featuring the London Symphony Orchestra. Originally released in 2001, The Look of Love brings to mind such classic Frank Sinatra albums as In the Wee Small Hours and Only The Lonely - but the elegant piano solos, sensual vocals and wickedly modern sense of humor are, inimitably, all Diana Krall. Verve Acoustic Sounds Series features transfers from analog tapes and remastered on 180grAm vinyl in deluxe gatefold packaging. [2 LP] Special Pkg:180gram Heavy
The Essential is a testament to Melody Gardot's enduring artistry. This collection spans 14 years of her career and includes 25 tracks that showcase the breadth of her musical abilities. Featuring selections from her six studio albums, remixes, live recordings and previously unreleased tracks, the album captures the essence of Gardot's talent. Highlights include her multilingual performances, emotive renditions of classics like Elton John's "Love Song," and live recordings that convey the raw honesty of her concerts. Each track offers a glimpse into the diverse emotional landscapes Gardot can traverse, making The Essential a rich and compelling portrait of an artist whose music speaks for itself.
Ella Fitzgerald in Copenhagen April 1959 was said to be still shy at age 42 and still modest after the 25 years of downright success reign as “Queen of Jazz”.
The third volume of “In Concert” series features Ella’s quintet. Roy Eldridge, Swing Era’s greatest trumpeter, opens the program with two tracks. The live recording of this concert in Copenhagen has been essentially unknown for half a century. We are happy to add this release to Ella Fitzgerald’s legacy of supreme vocal art of American jazz.
SteepleChase’ 50th anniversary “In Concert” series continues with Gerry Mulligan’s famed Concert Jazz Band from October 31, 1960 at its first concert in Europe. The Concert Jazz Band’s unique arrangements and its trademark sound of translucency are restored by the modern sound technology. The Concert Jazz Band’s live performance from their European tour have been released before except this from Copenhagen and Berlin. The Django Reinhardt piece Manoir de mes Rêves and Mulligan’s 18 Carrots for Rabbit get rare performance here.
SteepleChase is proud to announce the inaugural release of the “In Concert” series of previously unissued live recordings from Falkoner Centret in Copenhagen, where numerous prominent American bands and soloists performed for the very appreciative audiences in the late 50s. The Swing King Benny Goodman (1909-86) toured Europe in 1959 with his 10-piece band featuring vibraphonist Red Norvo and adding vocalist Anita O’Day on two tracks. This well-attended concert is from October 17, 1959.
BENNY GOODMAN (cl), RED NORVO (vib), RUSS FREEMAN (p), JIMMY WYBLE (g), RED WOOTEN (b), JOHN MARKHAM (dr), JACK SHELDON (tp, voc*). FLIP PHILLIPS (ts), JERRY DODGION (as, fl), BILL HARRIS (tb), ANITA O’DAY (voc*)
Dexter Gordon’s European period (1962–1976) was mostly based in his beloved Denmark, where he led an active professional career and enjoyed a harmonious private life. Arriving in Europe after some turbulent times in the States he found new energy in performing and recording to build a large part of his discography at the top of his artistic strength.
The recording output, however, during 1962 and 1964 was scarse and this album recorded in 1962 and 63 will be an adept document of the fresh start by the Towering Master of Tenor Sax.
“The star billing, as always, goes to one of jazz’s master storytellers, Dexter Gordon; the performances contained here, which set the scene for the dramatic renaissance of his career, fill in one of the long missing chapters.” (from the liner notes by Neil Tesser - SCCD 36039 Soul Sister)
Peanuts Portraits [LP] Vince Guaraldi Featuring the vivid musical cues that Guaraldi wrote for the cast of the Peanuts characters, this 'Peanuts Portraits' LP adds new dimensions to beloved regulars like Charlie Brown, Peppermint Patty, Schroeder and Sally. In addition to nine songs performed by Guaraldi, the album also includes two classic Peanuts tunes recorded by pianist George Winston. Eight of the selections (including Winston renditions of "Linus And Lucy" and "Masked Marvel"), make their vinyl debut on Peanuts Portraits.
The late journalist/author Chris Sheridan’s liner notes for Sheila Jordan’s first album for SteepleChase “Sheila” SCCD 31081 declares, “This recording is an acutely personal statement. Only rarely in the history of jazz have a singer‘s feelings been so affectingly bared ... only a few vocalists have had the grit to subordinate technique and »style« to expressiveness ... And the experience is breathtaking.”
Mr. Sheridan’s assertion from 1977 still rings true and even more so.
Sheila Jordan at the age 92 does not show any sign of slowing down or taking it easy. Her intensely creative power is evident throughout this album presented in a cross-generational collaboration with trioTrio consisting of three young elite instrumentalists of the New York scene.
“...a spiritual experience and heart-to-heart communion ... Jordan makes these tunes all her own, with personal, almost prayer-like readings...” (Down Beat - *****)
“... Sheila Jordan personifies a song like no one has since Billie Holiday.” (Unicorn Times)
Duke Jordan’s early success came as member of the Charlie Parker Quintet contributing some of the most endearingly apt introductions of the jazz’ classic repertoires such as “Embraceable You”. He composed quite a few great jazz tunes that became standard numbers like “Jor-du” and “No Problem” among others. After a lengthy hiatus due to his drug problems in the 60s Jordan was rescued by a handful of Danish jazz enthusiasts and started resuming his professional career in Europe and Japan.
The featured young tenorist Bent Jædig had shared the bandstand with Jordan during the years into the 80s.
Along with Jædig two guest players were sitting in: bassists Eddie Gomez (in town with Bill Evans), and South African Johnny Dyani.
This live recording finds Jordan at the famed jazz club Montmartre in the heart of Copenhagen the night before the (studio) recording session of his best-selling album “Flight To Denmark” SCCD 31011.
Duke Jordan made Denmark his permanent home until his death in 2006.
Joe Locke recorded this album in 1991, when his name as a new vibraphonist was gaining serious momentum on the NY scene.
Following his highly acclaimed debut album “Present Tense” (SCCD 31257) and the ensuing “Longing” (SCCD 31281) from SteepleChase this third album showcases Locke’s lyricism in a ballad collection accompanied by the master Kenny Barron.
“if your mood of the moment is to surround yourself with something soft and lovely, Locke and Barron will make things beautiful.” (Cadence) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Doug Raney was 22 years old when this highly acclaimed debut leader album was recorded in Copenhagen with veteran Duke Jordan on piano, Danish Hugo Rasmussen (bass) and the one and only Billy Hart on drums. During his relatively short life (1956 – 2016) Doug followed his legendary guitarist father Jimmy Raney’s footsteps but established himself as a definitely unique artist on his own at the early stage of his life. He called Denmark his home and resided in Copenhagen until his untimely death at the age of 59.
“That talent, in some cases, can be transmitted intact from father to son is a proposition that Introducing Doug Raney seems to prove...a lovely album...” (Larry Kart, Chicago Tribune)
“...What a dashing, gallant debut! ...Young Raney is blessed with extraordinary talent. Highly recommended.” (Yoshio Maki, Swing Journal)
“...Doug Raney possède une très belle technique, une musicalité suprême, un goût exquis, une extraorinaire intuition harmonique....” (Maurice Cullaz, Jazz Hot) 180g Audiophile Vinyl
Gnar Gnar Rad - Jazz Thing Next Generation, Vol. 102
Double Moon Records
CD
$16.99Apr 26, 2024
Oscar Pettiford. The Clash Art Blakey. A Tribe Called Quest. Charles Mingus (with Eric Dolphy). Only People Do The Killing. Cannonball Adderley. Primus. The Ornette Coleman Quartet. When Moritz Koser, bassist and composer from Frankfurt/Main, talks about points of reference and important influences, it goes all the way through music history. Gnar Gnar Rad, the quartet from Frankfurt, is his band. "Gnar Gnar Rad" is the album debut: a strong statement with which he effortlessly bridges the gap between jazz history and current trends.
Isabella Lundgren - vocals
Carl Bagge - piano - music arrangements
Musica Vitae - string ensemble
On the 20th of January 2009, Barack Obama was inaugurated as the 44th President of America. In his speech, he said: “Starting today, we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off, and begin again the work of remaking America.” With those words, he echoed the lyrics from the song "Pick Yourself Up," written by Dorothy Fields in 1936. Dorothy Fields (July 15, 1904– March 28, 1974) was an American librettist and lyricist. She wrote over 400 songs, 15 Broadway musicals, and 26 films. Her strong characterizations, her precise language, and heartfelt and humorous approach have granted her a special place in the history of American music and popular culture.
This album is a love letter to this remarkable woman who was way ahead of her time. /Isabella Lundgren
A piece of music history comes alive on Friday, May 10, as Storyville Records releases a new recording capturing the legendary Duke Ellington live in Copenhagen, Denmark, 1958. This recording, Copenhagen 1958 (Bonus: After Hours 1950), offers a rare glimpse into Ellington’s genius during a pivotal period in jazz history. In the late autumn of 1958, Ellington and his orchestra embarked on a whirlwind tour across Europe, leaving a trail of musical brilliance in their wake.
Among the highlights of this tour were two electrifying concerts held at Copenhagen’s iconic sports center, KB Hallen, on November 7. Although the original tapes have been lost to time, segments of these historic performances were broadcasted on separate occasions. Now, these broadcast recordings serve as the foundation for this release, transporting listeners back to a time when Ellington’s music redefined the jazz landscape.
The album opens with Ellington’s signature tune, "Take the A Train," over the vibrant energy of "Newport Up" to the soulful strains of "My Funny Valentine," each track showcasing the orchestra’s talent and Ellington’s innovative compositions. The orchestra was in great form in the late '50s, with the mixture of veterans like Johnny Hodges and Harry Carney, and modernists like Jimmy Hamilton, Clark Terry, and Paul Gonsalves.
One of the highlights is the rendition of "Diminuendo and Crescendo in Blue," featuring Paul Gonsalves’ legendary solo. In addition to the live recordings from the 1958 tour, this album also includes bonus tracks from after-hours settings in 1950; three tracks from a jam session at the dance restaurant Sct. Thomas in Copenhagen and two solo Ellington tunes recorded at a social charity event in Aarhus.
Copenhagen 1958 stands as evidence of Ellington’s enduring musical legacy, demonstrating that his music remains as pertinent and influential today as it was during its inception!
Storyville Records is pleased to announce the release of In Rome, a new album by Danish bassist Thomas Fonnesbaek alongside esteemed jazz musicians, pianist Enrico Pieranunzi, saxophonist Rosario Giuliani, drummer Roberto Gatto and singer Valentina Ranalli. This recording consists of 11 original compositions, 9 by Pieranunzi, 1 by Fonnesbaek and 1 by Gatto. Thomas Fonnesbaek is considered one of the most important and distinctive bassists on the European jazz scene today. His virtuosic technique, "Nordic sound" and ability to craft cohesive solos place him in the lineage of Danish bassists like Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen, Bo Stief and Jesper Lundgaard, while also showing kinship with greats like Dutch bassist Hein van de Geyn and prominent Swedish bass players. Nevertheless, Fonnesbaek's style is uniquely his own, honed through a self-taught journey that captivates audiences with a rare ability to evoke Duende - the inexplicable power of attraction that moves listeners emotionally, a concept coined by Spanish poet Federico Garcia Lorca. For those who have had the privilege of experiencing Fonnesbaek live, they will recognize this Duende in his playing. He often takes risks that challenge both his fellow musicians and audiences, creating moments of magic. In Rome captures these moments, highlighting Fonnesbaek's collaboration with some of Europe's finest musicians. At the core of the album is the partnership between Fonnesbaek and Enrico Pieranunzi, one of Europe's most revered pianists. Pieranunzi, known for his collaborations with the likes of Chet Baker, Marc Johnson, Paul Motian, and the legendary film composer Ennio Morricone, brings his extensive jazz and classical music background to this recording. Having recorded numerous albums together, Pieranunzi and Fonnesbaek share a musical chemistry that fuels this project. Joining the trio is Roberto Gatto, a drummer celebrated in European jazz circles. His elegant, sensitive approach enhances the group's interplay, while Rosario Giuliani on saxophone and Valentina Ranalli on vocals further elevate the music. In Rome is a testament to the creativity and mastery of European jazz. This album is jazz at it's finest!
Storyville Records is pleased to announce the release of In Rome, a new album by Danish bassist Thomas Fonnesbaek alongside esteemed jazz musicians, pianist Enrico Pieranunzi, saxophonist Rosario Giuliani, drummer Roberto Gatto and singer Valentina Ranalli. The album is set for release on November 1, 2024. This recording consists of 11 original compositions, 9 by Pieranunzi, 1 by Fonnesbaek and 1 by Gatto. Thomas Fonnesbaek is considered one of the most important and distinctive bassists on the European jazz scene today. His virtuosic technique, "Nordic sound" and ability to craft cohesive solos place him in the lineage of Danish bassists like Niels-Henning orsted Pedersen, Bo Stief and Jesper Lundgaard, while also showing kinship with greats like Dutch bassist Hein van de Geyn and prominent Swedish bass players. Nevertheless, Fonnesbaek's style is uniquely his own, honed through a self-taught journey that captivates audiences with a rare ability to evoke Duende - the inexplicable power of attraction that moves listeners emotionally, a concept coined by Spanish poet Federico Garcia Lorca. For those who have had the privilege of experiencing Fonnesbaek live, they will recognize this Duende in his playing. He often takes risks that challenge both his fellow musicians and audiences, creating moments of magic. In Rome captures these moments, highlighting Fonnesbaek's collaboration with some of Europe's finest musicians. At the core of the album is the partnership between Fonnesbaek and Enrico Pieranunzi, one of Europe's most revered pianists. Pieranunzi, known for his collaborations with the likes of Chet Baker, Mark Johnson, Paul Motian, and the legendary film composer Ennio Morricone, brings his extensive jazz and classical music background to this recording. Having recorded numerous albums together, Pieranunzi and Fonnesbaek share a musical chemistry that fuels this project. Joining the trio is Roberto Gatto, a drummer celebrated in European jazz circles. His elegant, sensitive approach enhances the group's interplay, while Rosario Giuliani on saxophone and Valentina Ranalli on vocals further elevate the music. In Rome is a testament to the creativity and mastery of European jazz. This album is jazz at it's finest!
