If you dig the organ trio genre, you'll flip over Deep Blue - Guitar Player Magazine. Celebrating the classic organ trio configuration as well as the Black-American experience through music, Bobby Broom, Chris Foreman & Greg Rockingham bring a modern edge to a musical timepiece. A mainstay on the Chicago jazz scene, the trio has played weekly at the Green Mill for the last six years, with each performance recounting the tales of the essence of jazz music's past travels through funk, soul, R&B, gospel and spirituals. On Folk Music, the trio plays with the kind of tightly knit connectivity only found among the highest level of seasoned musicians.

Following up on what's been called the veteran pianist's finest recording to date, 2011's "Trip the Light Fantastic," Galper and his trio offer another exhilarating set of music, further defining the very personal "rubato" style of collective performance they've developed over the last six years. From an intimate "Embraceable You," to the closing high-flying take of Sonny Rollins' "Airegin," Galper, bassist Jeff Johnson, and drummer John Bishop, display a singular group aesthetic, fully grounded in the language of bop while always in pursuit of new possibilities. "... The high level of integration and communication the trio displays is rare and quite thrilling to experience... " - Downbeat

Through a trio of new recordings over the past 4 years, pianist Hal Galper has redefined himself as a player and musical visionary and created a stunning collection of bold piano trio music. With his regular working group of kindred spirits, bassist Jeff Johnson and drummer John Bishop, Galper again re-imagines standards and adds his own compositional voice to a set of musical explorations recorded live at the 2009 Earshot Jazz Festival in Seattle. "... The most complex, daring, exhilarating music of Galper's career." - Jazz Times"Hal Galper excels in his highly dramatic improvisations as a soloist... He plays wild capers; sudden flashes of brilliance tumbling over each other temperamentally, individual phrases sparkle effortlessly away... " - Mannheimer Morgen, Germany.

For his maiden release on Origin, Northwest bassist Jon Hamar eschews the traditional piano trio format to explore the textural, dynamic and melodic possibilities of a decidedly unconventional instrumental configuration. Bolstered by the lithe and profuse alto saxophonist, Todd DelGiudice, and the illustriously versatile Geoffrey Keezer on piano, Hamar puts forth an intelligent collection of original compositions and sagacious arrangements that highlights the alluring interplay of these three very distinct voices. "... in this collection, Hamar achieves the balance of thoughtfulness and risk-taking that characterizes the most successful jazz ventures." - Doug Ramsey

Following last year's "Hymn," which featured the Seattle bassist in an intimate trio with saxophonist Todd DelGiudice and pianist Geoff Keezer, Hamar hits here with an open-ended, double saxophone quartet. DelGiudice returns on alto and he's matched with the remarkable New York tenor saxophonist, Rich Perry, who together provide wide-ranging contrapuntal intrigue for Hamar and drummer Julian MacDonough to play against. "Idyl Wild" properly suggests the musical landscape of this new collection - a controlled burn, slow simmer, extravagance or beauty with a hint of volatility, carefree risk-taking laden with abundant opportunity.

Since he arrived in New York City in 1991, drummer/composer/arranger Clarence Penn has placed his unique blend of mega-chops, keen intellect, and heady musicianship at the service of a staggering array of A-list artists, all documented on several hundred studio albums. On this recording, Penn leads his dynamic quartet through thoroughly fresh and modern renditions of classic Thelonious Monk staples. Filled with the spirit and joy associated with Monk, he's taken all the things he loves in the music and brought them into the present."... gesture and space surging from a place of heart-felt and fluid integrity... Penn exudes such enthusiasm and love for the music-it is simply impossible not to feel uplifted." - Jazz Times

Pianist Hal Galper's series of trio recordings over the last 10 years incorporates his development of "Rubato" playing as a means of melding melodic lyricism with the rhythmic excitement and "sound of surprise" of the bebop tradition. Being a passionate advocate for the apprenticeship system, Galper formed the Youngbloods in 2015 to further explore rubato while providing him the platform to work with vital young musicians on the New York scene, passing on lessons from his 50 year career. With saxophonist Nathan Bellot, bassist Dean Torrey, and drummer David Frazier, Galper revisits some of the compositions, fire, and adventurousness of his seminal recordings from the '70s during this set from the 2016 COTA Jazz Festival in Delaware Water Gap, where they celebrated the life of Galper's longtime employer, saxophonist Phil Woods."Successfully taking bop into the new century, Galper is on the money throughout with restless creativity that draws you in and keeps you there..." - Midwest Record.

With a 57-year history of performing together, going back to their 1954 meeting in their hometown of Chicago, the legendary saxophonist/trumpeter Ira Sullivan and vibist/pianist Stu Katz team together finally to commit their well-earned rapport to tape. Recorded live at their good friend Joe Segal's famed Jazz Showcase, with a quintet including pianist Dan Trudell, bassist Dennis Carroll, drummer George Fludas, plus a couple of special guests, "A Family Affair" swings with the joy and magic that only such a shared history can create. "It was standing room only at the Jazz Showcase, and for good reason... When this week is done, multi-instrumentalist Ira Sullivan and pianist-vibist Stu Katz will have documented one of the more enduring partnerships in jazz." - Howard Reich, Chicago Tribune.

From the startling and provocative rendition of opener "Alice in Wonderland," to a gorgeous take on "Guess I'll Hang My Tears Out to Dry," the legendary pianist continues the ceaseless development of his singular piano trio concept with his band mates of six years, bassist Jeff Johnson, and drummer John Bishop. "... another fine example of the veteran jazz pianist at the height of his powers - and with no holds barred whatsoever." - Bill Milkowski, JazzTimes "... a pianist of astonishing power and creativity... " - Brad Walseth, Jazz Chicago.

Dynamic saxophonist and composer Carlos Vega pursued his passion for jazz in school during the day while deeply entrenched in Miami's Latin music scene at night. The eclectic and electric musical experiences from that period helped form his unique approach that carried him through later work with Arturo Sandoval, Ira Sullivan, & Tito Puente. Moving to Chicago in 2005, his time spent there inspired his return from his Tallahassee home for the making of "Bird's Ticket," a set of ten Vega originals featuring four of Chicago's finest, with Victor Garcia on trumpet, Stu Mindeman on piano, Josh Ramos on bass and drummer Xavier Breaker.

Pianist Hal Galper disbanded his Ahmad Jamal-inspired trio in 2000 after a productive decade of steady touring and recording. Returning to 'the shed' for several years to work on concepts, teach and write, he came to realize that a rubato approach to time and movement-a concept he was first exposed to with Sam Rivers in the early '60s-was where he was being led. With bassist Tony Moreno & drummer Billy Mintz, Galper found able & willing partners to explore new territories in 2005, recording "Agents of Change" in 2006. The trio was the first stone cast in that direction for the eclectic pianist, a remarkable late career modernization that ushered in one of the most significant innovations in the art of the trio since Bill Evans' conception of equal partnership in the early '60s. This trio was a foray into a more melodic and beauty focused approach to rubato, before the more explosive and wide-roaming version portrayed by Galper's last touring trio of 2007-2019, with bassist Jeff Johnson and drummer John Bishop. "Invitation to Openness" was a brief return to the original rubato trio with Moreno & Mintz, recorded in 2008, live in upstate New York. This indomitable period of innovation, that so remarkably occurred a half century into his career, was enabled by his trio association with Marino and Mintz, so beautifully portrayed by the tracks contained within.

Galper's dazzling runs are often complemented by his punchy pointillism... stunning... - DownBeat. During a rich musical period in the late '70s with many performances around New York City and two European tours together, pianist Hal Galper and guitarist John Scofield recorded a pair of legendary albums that demonstrated the well grounded paths they were on, their concepts coalescing in a hub of scorched earth intensity. Scofield's "Rough House," was followed by Galper's "Ivory Forest" recorded in October 1979, both originally on the German Enja label and with Adam Nussbaum on drums. Now 40+ years later, and the legacy set with countless thousands of musicians inspired to follow in their steps, the sounds remain modern and vital.

With a chemistry forged over 15 years of playing together in many different musical configurations, the Chicago-based trio of bassist Clark Sommers, saxophonist Geof Bradfield and drummer Dana Hall have developed a trust and intuitiveness that yields high levels of creative spontaneity. Drawing from their many diverse influences, Ba (SH) is alternately raw and elegant, while always riveting, as they explore a set of eight modern jazz originals plus readings of Billy Higgins' "Inga," and Monk's "Think of One. " Peripatetic bassist Clark Sommers plays with a rock-bottom, infectious groove; communicates his personality through his playing, and is securely steeped in the jazz tradition."

In his fifth decade as a major jazz artist, Hal Galper continues the innovation that has made him one of the most surprising and satisfying pianists alive. His 21st century series of trio albums for Origin incorporates his development of "Rubato" playing as a means of melding melodic lyricism with the rhythmic excitement and "sound of surprise" of bebop. The 5th recording in that series, "O's Time," highlights the deep musical bond of his trio, with bassist Jeff Johnson and drummer John Bishop, as they explore standards such as "Smile," jazz classics like Wayne Shorter's "Wildflower," and originals including the title track, a dedication to Ornette Coleman. "... The high level of integration and communication the trio displays is rare and quite thrilling to experience... " - Downbeat

Clarence Penn has been one of the most dynamic drummers in jazz since his New York City arrival 33 years ago. His work with Wynton Marsalis, Betty Carter, Diane Reeves and Michael Brecker has been extensively documented, as have his own musical explorations, including 2014's "Monk: The Lost Files." "Behind the Voice" goes a whole new direction as Penn unfurls inventive reimaginings of the works of influential drummers behind some of the greatest pop music created. Songs by Phil Collins, Levon Helm, Stevie Wonder, Peter Gabriel & Dave Grohl receive expansive modern treatments through Penn's production along with a bevy of collaborators, including vocalists Kurt Elling, Aaron Marcellus & Toku, guitarists Adam Rogers & Gilad Hekselman, and many more. "... a celebration of their artistry, their passion, and their indelible mark on the music we cherish." "... gesture and space surging from a place of heart-felt and fluid integrity... Penn exudes such enthusiasm and love for the music-it is simply impossible not to feel uplifted." - JAZZ TIMES

A towering cultural figure throughout the second half of the 20th century, Leonard Bernstein mediated between different musical worlds, borrowing freely from jazz, blues and popular music, eventually shaping a "classical" sound that became his deeply influential signature. From his decades of working alongside Austria's most illustrious musicians, Vienna's JAM Music Lab University was inspired to celebrate his music & legacy. With the addition of drumming great Peter Erskine as a Visiting Artist in 2021 - bringing along his own decades of contributions to blending popular musics at the highest levels - they handed him the task of shaping the ambitious project. With this live recording, Erskine, JAM students and faculty, and pianist/musical director Danny Grissett, honor Bernstein's genius and fulfill JAM's chief mission - inspired by the jazz masters, educate and nurture jazz's next generation - and on this night, Peter Erskine, and Leonard Bernstein, led the charge.

Peter Erskine and Vienna's JAM Music Lab All-Stars celebrate the music of two iconic Viennese composers who, after moving to Hollywood in 1929 & 1934, transformed the dynamics of film as they set the standards for movie scoring. Through their work on Gone With the Wind, King Kong, and many dozens more, their role in shaping popular culture since is legion. First exposed to the music in the late '70s as he was touring with Weather Report, Erskine heard Joe Zawinul playing a beautiful melody and learned it was by Korngold, a fellow Viennese composer. He was moved to search out transcripts and recordings ever since. With his artist-in-residency at Vienna's cutting-edge JAM Music Lab University, his desire to reimagine this music in an improvised jazz setting finally became a reality. "... Erskine and the Jam Music Lab All-Stars demonstrate virtuosity, versatility and a keen attention to detail... creating a fitting tribute to the most influential figures in 20th-century music." The New York City Jazz Record

It was Dave Slonaker's fascination with the sounds of big bands in his early teens that led him to Pittsburg's Carnegie Library to research the nuts & bolts of how it was created. An orchestrator, arranger, and composer for film & TV over decades now, it's with his 15-year-old Grammy nominated ensemble - comprised of LA's finest jazz and studio musicians where he explores the paradigm shifts within his own writing and aesthetic as time goes on. With this third album for Origin, his exploration of orchestration, harmony and rhythm is as expansive and vivid as ever, as band members including Peter Erskine, Bob Sheppard, Clay Jenkins and Bill Reichenbach lend world-renowned musicality to whatever twists and turns he conjures up - always celebrating the big band legacy while joining the other visionary composers in charting the path forward. "His charts are modern, invigorating, full of variety, and clearly an inspiration for his sidemen." Scott Yanow, LA Jazz Scene "Exemplifying the best of contemporary big-band jazz - fresh and sparkling, with more than enough dynamism and ingenuity to capture a listener's interest and hold it..." All About Jazz

On Bright Dawn, his 21st recording as a leader, Harvie S reaffirms why he remains one of the most expressive and sought-after bass voices in modern jazz. Long celebrated for bass lines that function "like the deep roots of a tree," Harvie uses this session to explore the full sonic and emotional range of the instrument, shaping music that is at once grounded, lyrical, and quietly adventurous. His original compositions-thoughtful, rhythmically alive, and rich with harmonic implication-sit naturally alongside inspired interpretations of Chick Corea's "Humpty Dumpty" and Bob Dorough's wry classic "Devil May Care," creating a program that feels both personal and expansive. Surrounded by Peter Bernstein's warm, articulate guitar, Miki Hayama's elegant and probing piano, and Matt Wilson's ever-responsive drums, Harvie leaves generous space for interaction, nuance, and collective discovery. The result is a recording that breathes, melodies unfolding organically and grooves emerging with unforced authority, all anchored by the unmistakable sound of a master bassist whose imagination and touch continue to evolve. "The bassist's horn-like, bebop-based phrasing is as engaging as it is inventive, leaving no doubts about his stature as one of the preeminent bass voices..." All About Jazz " a fecund mind that is continually searching for new horizons towards which to stretch, taking with him a bass violin that sings with almost limitless possibilities." Raul da Gama

Vocalist and composer Chenxi Pan introduces herself as a thoughtful new voice in contemporary jazz through this set of all original music. Unfolding as a series of reflections drawn from lived experience, emotions are rendered through a fluid blend of poetry, song, and instrumental writing, often using the voice as an expressive instrument within the ensemble as she dissolves the line between sung narrative and pure sound. Born and raised in China, her path shifted from literature to music during her early studies, eventually leading her to pursue jazz in New York City at the New School. Her writing reflects that lineage: lyrical yet searching, precise yet open to spontaneity. Produced by master drummer Matt Wilson, This Very Moment was recorded soon after her 2024 debut as a bandleader at The Stone NYC. Balancing intimacy with collective interplay, Pan allows each composition to breathe and evolve. Her emergence as a musical voice signals an artist attuned to nuance, collaboration, and storytelling-one who invites the listener not toward spectacle, but into a shared, resonant present.

Composer Anthony Branker unveils a powerful new chapter in his ongoing exploration of music as cultural narrative, social inquiry, and collective expression. Leading his newly formed ensemble Other Ways of Knowing, Branker brings together an exceptional group of improvisers-saxophonist Steve Wilson, guitarist Pete McCann, pianist Simona Premazzi, bassist John H'bert, drummer Rudy Royston, and vocalist Aim'e Allen-for a program that is as rhythmically vital as it is conceptually resonant. Drawing inspiration from histories and lived experiences within the African and Indigenous diasporas, these expansive compositions balance cinematic scope with deeply personal storytelling. Like Branker's acclaimed earlier work, praised for it's ability to unite musical beauty with intellectual depth, Manifestations of a Diasporic Groove & Spirit stands as a compelling statement-one that invites listening not only as an aesthetic experience, but as a way of knowing, remembering, and bearing witness. "Musical beauty in the service of thought, or perhaps the reverse" Paris-Move "a sweeping opus with sociopolitical and poetic content woven into a musical tapestry at once cerebral, emotive and viscerally exciting." DownBeat

Bassist and composer Gabriel Espinosa's "The Brazilian Project" is the realization of a lifelong devotion to the music that first stirred his imagination in the 1960s, when the sounds of Jobim, Joao Gilberto and Sergio Mendes reshaped the global jazz landscape. Raised in Mexico on boleros and the Beatles, Espinosa later found in bossa nova a language of melodic grace and rhythmic subtlety that would define his artistic path through Berklee, North Texas State, and to his present home in Iowa. For his eighth solo album, his bass is set aside while his compositions are brought vividly to life by a Brazil-based nonet, with scintillating arrangements by trombonist Rafael Rocha and flugel hornist Bruno Santos. Recorded in Rio de Janeiro and enhanced by the Tallinn Studio Orchestra, the album radiates warmth, elegance, and rhythmic vitality. The Brazilian Project stands as a joyful summit in Espinosa's decades-long journey-an inspired cross-cultural collaboration that honors tradition while speaking in a fresh, contemporary voice. "Bossa nova literally means "new tendency" or "new thing". Gabriel Espinosa renews the genre with his imaginative compositions and top-class musicians." Music Web International " - a mellifluous musical expedition led by this mature bassist, who crafts his music with utmost confidence and grace - The depth of emotion of his music is truly touching." - Latin Jazz Net

With HOMETOWN, trumpeter and composer Jared Hall brings listeners into a musically rich reflection on place, purpose, and artistic growth. Born in Spokane and seasoned by vibrant creative communities from Bloomington to Miami and Seattle, Hall returns to his roots with a lyrical voice shaped by decades of performance and collaboration. Here, he celebrates the grounding power of family, shared history, and the joy of reconnecting with the people and experiences that shaped him. From the clever nods to jazz lineage in "Step by Step" and "Echoes and Origins," to the wistful inspiration behind "Room 111," this recording maps Hall's journey with clarity, heart, and unwavering musical intention. Supported by a stellar quintet - including saxophonist Troy Roberts, pianist Ben Markley, bassist Michael Glynn and drummer Kyle Swan - HOMETOWN unfolds with both rooted tradition and forward-looking spirit. The result is resonant and compelling. "There is truth here, unabashed, direct to the listener." - All About Jazz. "... Hall's expressive, probing trumpet style, offers a masterful, wide ranging sound, and varied emotional landscape." All About Jazz

Abate Berihun & The Addis Ken Project's Addis Ken (New Day) is a deeply evocative journey where jazz becomes both vessel and invocation. Drawing from Ethiopian Jewish liturgical traditions, pan-African rhythms, and modern improvisational language, they fuse ancient memory with contemporary expression in music that feels timeless and urgent all at once. Berihun's commanding tenor and soprano saxophones are matched by his remarkable vocal presence-earthy, elastic, and prayerful-capable of moving seamlessly from guttural incantation to soaring, skyward cries. Joined by pianist Roy Mor, bassist David Michaeli, and drummer/percussionist Nitzan Birnbaum, the quartet operates with intuitive empathy, shaping grooves and atmospheres that breathe and expand around Berihun's impassioned lead. Moments such as the stirring "Behatitu Kadush Kadush," featuring vocalist Rudi Bainesay, reach directly into sacred terrain, while pieces like "Addis Ken" and "Jerusalem" balance reverence with forward momentum. Rich in texture, spirit, and blues-rooted intensity, Addis Ken is music as lived experience-honoring lineage while speaking vividly in the present tense. "They are a joy to behold." Jerusalem Post. "The quartet of brilliant musicians drew inspiration not only from across the planet but also from the depths of time." - Tom š S. Pol¡vka (Prague)

GIANTS is jazz guitarist Barry Greene's most fully realized recording to date-a powerful tribute to the players who shaped his musical voice, including Pat Martino, Grant Green, Wes Montgomery, and Russell Malone. Spanning organ trio, modern ensemble, and solo guitar settings, the album reflects a lifetime of deep immersion in the jazz tradition, delivered with authority, swing, and an unmistakable personal voice. With Pat Bianchi on B3 organ and drummer Ulysses Owens Jr., Greene captures the raw energy and soulful drive of the classic organ trio. The broader sound palette of his quintet setting with David Kikoski on piano, Steve Nelson on vibraphone, bassist Marco Panascia, and Owens, yields richly textured performances that balance fire, lyricism, and harmonic depth. More than a tribute, Giants is a statement-an artist at the peak of his powers honoring the lineage while speaking unmistakably in his own voice. "Monster chops, soulful feel, full/rich classic jazz tone, and virtuosic harmonic techniques establish him as a top-tier guitarist." - Benedetto Guitars. Barry Greene is just about one of the best; not only as a player, but also as a writer and a teacher & a world-class musician. Pat Martino

For his 36th recording as a leader, world-renowned vibraphonist Joe Locke has assembled a tightly knit quartet which brings to life a set of diverse and emotionally powerful original compositions, laying the framework for stellar contributions from special guests Adam Rogers (guitar), Dave Binney (alto), and vocalists Raul Mid¢n and Alina Engibaryan. With Locke calling this recording "the total expression of who I am as a musician and human being," subjects of love, loss, history and social awareness are laid out in six new works from Joe's pen and two blues-imbued covers by Bob Dylan and Blind Willie Johnson."Locke's core quartet doesn't just lift his music off the written page, they make it leap out of the speakers, filling the room with an energy that's almost uncontainable..." - All About Jazz

Thomas Marriott has, in a series of 10 beautifully executed and well received albums on Origin, more than proved his jazz credentials with formidable technique & fluency, celebration of the tradition and a deep joy of extemporaneous risk-taking. On this recording, however, Thomas strips things down to their essence, taking all he has accrued and employing it to delve deep into the heart, leaving us with only his beautiful sound and the truth of the stories being told. Wanting to create something beyond a jazz ballads album, Thomas and his producer, vibist Joe Locke, imagined something more operatic in nature, with each song resembling a free-standing aria. They teamed with pianist/composer Ryan Cohan to arrange and orchestrate this collection of ten classic & modern jazz compositions, popular tunes and several original works by Locke and Cohan, creating a sumptuous, glowing palette over which the melodies and solos can soar."Thomas Marriott's trumpet sound is as lush and inviting as it comes." - DOWNBEAT

As early as 1976, Nat Hentoff wrote: "Once in a great while, a musician emerges with such authority and such seemingly effortless originality that his place in the front ranks of his instrument is unquestioned." Hentoff was not speaking of promise or potential, but actual performance, and forty-two years later, with My Faith, My Life, bassist David Friesen has added immeasurably to his stature. With it's two CD suites complementing each other so fully, it's an epochal achievement - a testament to the offers of faith, matched with a purposeful life. Disc One is a 13-piece solo performance on his Hemage Bass, which calls attention to the intimacy and immediacy of his compositions. The solo piano of Disc Two highlights Friesen's supple touch on an instrument he's not generally known for. Closing the set, the composition "My Faith, My Life" sums it all up: a credo, affirmation, reverence - lower register continuity laced with sublime melody: a hymn to the Source of all song, with a fitting Amen at the close."One of the most eminent exponents of the instrument, he maintains an astonishing level of virtuosity." - LOS ANGELES TIMES

Having always found inspiration in the evocative recordings of Gil Evans and Miles Davis, and from the great balladeers - Dexter, Trane, Turrentine, Clifford Brown - veteran Seattle trumpeter/saxophonist Jay Thomas was always on the lookout for the right relationship with an arranger who could properly frame his vision for a recording of richly orchestrated ballads. Meeting the German composer/arranger/trumpeter Oliver Groenewald opened the door to several years of collaboration, culminating in this deep recording of lush landscapes and melodies, performed with the intention, clarity and sustained energy of a master melodist.