The Modernist – Explosion (1999)

Jan 22, 2010
by Mr. Nau

The Modernist blends minimal German techno with electro house in this set of thirteen tracks from 1999. With solid dancefloor appeal, this would hold its own mixed into a DJ set with music a decade newer. For a nice understated album of good grooves, this solid set delivers the [...]

Herbie Hancock – Maiden Voyage (1965)

Jan 11, 2010
by Mr. Nau

Herbie Hancock leads a wonderful quintet in this spectacular album that incorporates modal jazz, luscious melodic composition, and incredible solo work. The interplay between the musicians, particularly Hancock on piano, Freddie Hubbard on trumpet, and George Coleman on tenor saxophone, makes this set of five original charts an unforgettable treat.

Grade: A+.

AllMusic: [...]

Antonio Carlos Jobim – Live at Minas (2006)

Aug 10, 2009
by Mr. Nau

The legendary Antonio Carlos Jobim takes the stage to sing his songs and play the piano in this wonderful 1981 live recording. Interrupted occasionally by his introductions of his songs in Portuguese, the music here is warm and displays the songwriting talent of a truly original voice in music history.

Grade: [...]

The Best of the Gerry Mulligan Quartet with Chet Baker (1991)

May 08, 2009
by Mr. Nau

Gerry Mulligan and Chet Baker anchor a pianoless quartet in this collection of tracks from various recording sessions from the early 50s. With the pair tackling a number of familiar standards and a few original charts, this laid-back straight-ahead West Coast jazz record is an mellow, entertaining listen.

Grade: A-.

AllMusic: Gerry [...]

India.Arie – Acoustic Soul (2001)

May 08, 2009
by Mr. Nau

India.Arie delivers an incredible debut with this record, fusing guitar-driven soul with hip-hop, funk, and R&B. The songwriting here is first rate and all of the songs are infectious and unforgettable. Her voice, her lyrics, and the arranging make this a record worthy of many repeated spins.

Grade: A+.

AllMusic: India.Arie [...]

Norah Jones – Feels Like Home (2004)

May 04, 2009
by Mr. Nau

In this followup to her award-winning debut, Norah Jones delivers a beautiful set of torch songs—relaxed, laid-back, and full of blues and country influence. Dolly Parton guests on one of the tracks and there are covers and rearrangements of the music of Tom Waits and Duke Ellington.

Grade: A.

AllMusic: Norah Jones — [...]

Norah Jones – Not Too Late (2007)

May 01, 2009
by Mr. Nau

Norah Jones’ third album is quieter, more sparse, and more artistically adventurous than her previous efforts. The arranging and writing is really beautiful here, although some songs are quite minimal. Thinking About You, Until the End, and Be My Somebody stand out among a number of pretty country-influenced songs.

Grade: [...]

Norah Jones – Come Away with Me (2002)

May 01, 2009
by Mr. Nau

Norah Jones makes a beautiful debut in this collection of soulful pop tunes, deeply steeped in country and jazz influence. Norah’s voice is gorgeous, mellow, and introspective. She’s backed up by an amazing band and, with solid arranging, this album heralds an amazing talent to keep an eye out [...]

Sonny Stitt – The Good Life (1980)

Apr 29, 2009
by Mr. Nau

Sonny Stitt picks up the tenor saxophone on this fun set of standards. His hard bop playing is magnificent and the intricacy of his solo work shows an obsessed devotion to his own development. Hank Jones, George Duvivier, and Grady Tate (who sings on some tracks) lend rhythm section [...]

Dizzy Gillespie – Dizzy Gillespie Jam: Montreux 77 (1992)

Apr 28, 2009
by Mr. Nau

Dizzy Gillespie helms this rare live set from the 1977 Montreux Jazz Festival, sharing the stage with the likes of Jon Faddis and Milt Jackson — not to mention a rhythm section full of legends. The music here is classic bebop, with Diz, Faddis, and Jackson riffing off each other [...]

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