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Sebastian "Bash" Whittaker: Moving Onward and Upward
Sebastian Whittaker is a Houston based drummer/producer who has been a mainstay on the Texas jazz scene for over 20 years. He began performing in his hometown and recorded 4 CD's as a leader with Justice Records. Since the early 90s, Bash has been featured on countless recording with artists such as Shelley Carrol, James Lakey, Barrie Lee Hall, Jr., Lynn Seaton, Curtis Lundy and others. His latest release features the talents of Stefan Karlsson and Lynn Seaton in the rhythm section along with an outstanding horn line-up (David Caceres, James Lakey, and Shelley Carrol).
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Diane Landry: It's a Lovely Day
It's a Lovely Day" is a hard-driving, greasy session which shatters any expectations of another delicate chanteuse lazily wandering through the American Songbook. By contrast, Landry's soulful voice smacks of a tradition inspired by the rich culture of the Gulf Coast, but also has a maturity in phrasing associated with the great voices of our day. Combined with pianist/arranger Matt Lemmler's reharmonizations and world-class playing, the session treats the listener to the exciting sound of 21st century New Orleans jazz. You will marvel at how they stylishly revitalize worn chestnuts like "Good Morning Heartache" and "Blue Moon". Recorded in the Crescent City with mostly local players including the great John Ellis on saxophone, "It's a Lovely Day" is bound to get national attention both for its unique point of view and the exceptional musicianship displayed throughout.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Larry Slezak: No Worries
Saxophonist Larry Slezak brings an assured swing, a warm soulful tone, and a wealth of experience to No Worries, his first CD as a leader, which is set for release by Houston’s Tierra Studios on November 25. The New York native and longtime Houston resident is joined on the recording by his Hammond Organ Band—veteran guitarist Clayton Dyess; bassist Thomas Helton; the young pianist José-Miguel Yamal, who also plays Hammond B3 organ on several tracks; and Larry’s son Joe Slezak on drums.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Paul Peacock: Higher Learning
A wonderful debut from saxophonist Paul Peacock and pianist Mike Owen. With strong, modern playing and beautiful compositions, "Higher Learning" has found itself in heavy rotation among many of the town's top players. The title track alone is worth the price of admission. And it'll make a great holiday gift. Highly recommended.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Joe LoCascio: Ghosts
Legendary pianist for Tony Campise, Chet Baker, and many others, LoCascio steps out on a limb to record his first solo project in 20 years. 13 original compositions showcase the artist in a starkly intimate, emotionally available setting.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
maria williams: Hybrid
Vocalist Maria Williams has carved a niche in Houston performing salsa and other Latin jazz, in addition to standard jazz and pop. On her newest release "Hybrid", Williams explores a range of styles from the American songbook to classic rock. Surely, any jazz album with a cover of Traffic's "Low Spark of High Heeled Boys" is worth checking out. Available directly from the Williams, or the usual outlets (iTunes, CDBaby, etc.).
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Althea Rene: No Restrictions
The Detroit native now living in Houston was raised as a classical flautist and later spent a decade working as a Detroit police officer before landing on the forefront of the Urban Contemporary Jazz scene. A mainstay Houston's Red Cat Jazz Cafe and an artist on owner Sam Pink's record label, Rene has developed a significant national presence in this genre, touring constantly as part of cruises, festivals and other Smooth Jazz events. Her latest release features many of Houston's finest players including Mark Simmons, Darrell Lavigne, and Kyle Turner. "No Restrictions" also features special guest Candy Dulfer on one track. Impeccably produced, this album is clearly headed for major national airplay.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Gary Norian: Heart First
Pianist Gary Norian recorded this album for his congregation at Houston's famed Unitarian Church. "Heart First" is a short collection of peaceful solo piano improvisations which flirts with jazz without being a jazz record. Norian's superb pianism is ever present throughout the five track session. Recommended for anyone craving a relaxing, high quality soundscape.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Mike Wheeler: Mikey's Waltz
Mike Wheeler, a world-class jazz guitarist, brings his hollow body perfection to life on this wonderful release for Blue Bamboo Music. Wheeler is joined by the stellar pianist and Great American Piano Competition winner Pamela York, bassist David Craig, and drummer Tim Solook. Highlights include "'snew", an exciting original bop melody and counterpoint written over "What's New", as well as a majestic solo reading of "What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life?". Highly Recommended.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Woody Witt: Willows
With a strong two-horn frontline plus the propulsive rhythm team of bassist Lynn Seaton and legendary drummer Billy Hart, saxophonist Witt's third release for Apria is a masterful excursion into modern post bop and beyond. Other notables include great solos by saxist Tim Armacost and long-time collaborator, pianist Joe LoCascio. "Willows" will surely become a milestone in the rapidly evolving discography of Houston native Woody Witt.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Woody Witt: A Conversation
"A Conversation" is an excellent addition to Woody Witt's growing catalog of top-quality jazz releases. It features eight original compositions from the saxophonist with bandmates Ed Soph on drums and Fred Hamilton on both guitar and bass. While the standard sax trio (drum/bass/sax) is well represented, much of the album journeys into the rarely heard bass-less sax/guitar/drum trio sound. It's intriguing and modern. This is Witt's first release on the Houston-based Blue Bamboo Music label, run by guitarist Chris Cortez.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Kellye Gray: KG3 Live! at the Bugle Boy
After almost 20 years of fine-tuning her voice, Kellye has become that breed of jazz singer that has a sound that is truly her own. Amazon.com and Epionions.com report comments like, "Kellye Gray simply blew me away. Very few female jazz singers have her range and soul." And, "Kellye Gray is one of the finest singers I?ve ever heard on record or in person. She can blast away or quietly capture your heart." She has just released her latest acoustic trio project featuring classical guitar, acoustic bass and jazz voice. The trio recorded "KG3 Live! at the Bugle Boy (grr8 records)"; at the La Grange, Texas vintage WWII army barracks venue.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
David Caceres: Reflections
Saxophonist/vocalist, Caceres, brings an all star cast including Jamire Williams, Eric Revis, and Andy Langham in this adventurous musical journey of deep rooted melodies, odd time meters and soulful tales.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Champion Sisters: Christmas with the Champion Sisters
Produced by Paul English, this recording features original arrangements and large orchestrations (big band and orchestra) of Christmas favorites with the fabulous, fresh three-part harmony of the Champion Sisters.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Kristine Mills: Playing with the Big Boys LIVE!
Houston jazz vocalist Kristine Mills and the Ken Ward Jazz Ensemble recorded live at Cézanne's. Featured in the ensemble were two veterans of the Duke Ellington Orchestra, drummer Rocky White and Barry Lee Hall, Jr., conductor/arranger and trumpet player for the Duke Ellington Orchestra. The other members of the ensemble included Ken Ward on piano and David Craig on bass and Paul Chester on guitar. Andy Bradley of SugarHill Recording Studio engineered the recording.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
JazzHouston.com New Local CD Releases
Showing the 15 most recent releases in order of release date
Sebastian "Bash" Whittaker: Moving Onward and Upward
Sebastian Whittaker is a Houston based drummer/producer who has been a mainstay on the Texas jazz scene for over 20 years. He began performing in his hometown and recorded 4 CD's as a leader with Justice Records. Since the early 90s, Bash has been featured on countless recording with artists such as Shelley Carrol, James Lakey, Barrie Lee Hall, Jr., Lynn Seaton, Curtis Lundy and others. His latest release features the talents of Stefan Karlsson and Lynn Seaton in the rhythm section along with an outstanding horn line-up (David Caceres, James Lakey, and Shelley Carrol).
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Diane Landry: It's a Lovely Day
It's a Lovely Day" is a hard-driving, greasy session which shatters any expectations of another delicate chanteuse lazily wandering through the American Songbook. By contrast, Landry's soulful voice smacks of a tradition inspired by the rich culture of the Gulf Coast, but also has a maturity in phrasing associated with the great voices of our day. Combined with pianist/arranger Matt Lemmler's reharmonizations and world-class playing, the session treats the listener to the exciting sound of 21st century New Orleans jazz. You will marvel at how they stylishly revitalize worn chestnuts like "Good Morning Heartache" and "Blue Moon". Recorded in the Crescent City with mostly local players including the great John Ellis on saxophone, "It's a Lovely Day" is bound to get national attention both for its unique point of view and the exceptional musicianship displayed throughout.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Larry Slezak: No Worries
Saxophonist Larry Slezak brings an assured swing, a warm soulful tone, and a wealth of experience to No Worries, his first CD as a leader, which is set for release by Houston’s Tierra Studios on November 25. The New York native and longtime Houston resident is joined on the recording by his Hammond Organ Band—veteran guitarist Clayton Dyess; bassist Thomas Helton; the young pianist José-Miguel Yamal, who also plays Hammond B3 organ on several tracks; and Larry’s son Joe Slezak on drums.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Paul Peacock: Higher Learning
A wonderful debut from saxophonist Paul Peacock and pianist Mike Owen. With strong, modern playing and beautiful compositions, "Higher Learning" has found itself in heavy rotation among many of the town's top players. The title track alone is worth the price of admission. And it'll make a great holiday gift. Highly recommended.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Joe LoCascio: Ghosts
Legendary pianist for Tony Campise, Chet Baker, and many others, LoCascio steps out on a limb to record his first solo project in 20 years. 13 original compositions showcase the artist in a starkly intimate, emotionally available setting.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
maria williams: Hybrid
Vocalist Maria Williams has carved a niche in Houston performing salsa and other Latin jazz, in addition to standard jazz and pop. On her newest release "Hybrid", Williams explores a range of styles from the American songbook to classic rock. Surely, any jazz album with a cover of Traffic's "Low Spark of High Heeled Boys" is worth checking out. Available directly from the Williams, or the usual outlets (iTunes, CDBaby, etc.).
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Althea Rene: No Restrictions
The Detroit native now living in Houston was raised as a classical flautist and later spent a decade working as a Detroit police officer before landing on the forefront of the Urban Contemporary Jazz scene. A mainstay Houston's Red Cat Jazz Cafe and an artist on owner Sam Pink's record label, Rene has developed a significant national presence in this genre, touring constantly as part of cruises, festivals and other Smooth Jazz events. Her latest release features many of Houston's finest players including Mark Simmons, Darrell Lavigne, and Kyle Turner. "No Restrictions" also features special guest Candy Dulfer on one track. Impeccably produced, this album is clearly headed for major national airplay.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Gary Norian: Heart First
Pianist Gary Norian recorded this album for his congregation at Houston's famed Unitarian Church. "Heart First" is a short collection of peaceful solo piano improvisations which flirts with jazz without being a jazz record. Norian's superb pianism is ever present throughout the five track session. Recommended for anyone craving a relaxing, high quality soundscape.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Mike Wheeler: Mikey's Waltz
Mike Wheeler, a world-class jazz guitarist, brings his hollow body perfection to life on this wonderful release for Blue Bamboo Music. Wheeler is joined by the stellar pianist and Great American Piano Competition winner Pamela York, bassist David Craig, and drummer Tim Solook. Highlights include "'snew", an exciting original bop melody and counterpoint written over "What's New", as well as a majestic solo reading of "What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life?". Highly Recommended.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Woody Witt: Willows
With a strong two-horn frontline plus the propulsive rhythm team of bassist Lynn Seaton and legendary drummer Billy Hart, saxophonist Witt's third release for Apria is a masterful excursion into modern post bop and beyond. Other notables include great solos by saxist Tim Armacost and long-time collaborator, pianist Joe LoCascio. "Willows" will surely become a milestone in the rapidly evolving discography of Houston native Woody Witt.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Woody Witt: A Conversation
"A Conversation" is an excellent addition to Woody Witt's growing catalog of top-quality jazz releases. It features eight original compositions from the saxophonist with bandmates Ed Soph on drums and Fred Hamilton on both guitar and bass. While the standard sax trio (drum/bass/sax) is well represented, much of the album journeys into the rarely heard bass-less sax/guitar/drum trio sound. It's intriguing and modern. This is Witt's first release on the Houston-based Blue Bamboo Music label, run by guitarist Chris Cortez.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Kellye Gray: KG3 Live! at the Bugle Boy
After almost 20 years of fine-tuning her voice, Kellye has become that breed of jazz singer that has a sound that is truly her own. Amazon.com and Epionions.com report comments like, "Kellye Gray simply blew me away. Very few female jazz singers have her range and soul." And, "Kellye Gray is one of the finest singers I?ve ever heard on record or in person. She can blast away or quietly capture your heart." She has just released her latest acoustic trio project featuring classical guitar, acoustic bass and jazz voice. The trio recorded "KG3 Live! at the Bugle Boy (grr8 records)"; at the La Grange, Texas vintage WWII army barracks venue.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
David Caceres: Reflections
Saxophonist/vocalist, Caceres, brings an all star cast including Jamire Williams, Eric Revis, and Andy Langham in this adventurous musical journey of deep rooted melodies, odd time meters and soulful tales.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Champion Sisters: Christmas with the Champion Sisters
Produced by Paul English, this recording features original arrangements and large orchestrations (big band and orchestra) of Christmas favorites with the fabulous, fresh three-part harmony of the Champion Sisters.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
Kristine Mills: Playing with the Big Boys LIVE!
Houston jazz vocalist Kristine Mills and the Ken Ward Jazz Ensemble recorded live at Cézanne's. Featured in the ensemble were two veterans of the Duke Ellington Orchestra, drummer Rocky White and Barry Lee Hall, Jr., conductor/arranger and trumpet player for the Duke Ellington Orchestra. The other members of the ensemble included Ken Ward on piano and David Craig on bass and Paul Chester on guitar. Andy Bradley of SugarHill Recording Studio engineered the recording.
Artist Web Site | Buy CD
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