contemporary jazz

  • montage of album covers of top contemporary jazz from April 17, 1994
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    Top Contemporary Jazz April 17, 1994: Incognito, Bob James and more

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    The top ten contemporary jazz recordings, ranked by ContemporaryJazz.com, from the week of April 17, 1994! David Benoit and Russ Freeman, The Benoit/Freeman Project Paul Hardcastle, Hardcastle Dave Weckl, Hard-Wired The Solsonics, Jazz in the Present Tense Mark Johnson, Mark Johnson Incognito, Positivity Bob James, Restless John Scofield and Pat Metheny, I Can See Your…

  • cover to the 1994 debut self-titled album by contemporary jazz saxophonist Mark Johnson
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    Mark Johnson Contemporary Jazz Review

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    I wrote this review in 1994, when Mark Johnson’s debut self-titled solo recording was released: With so many saxophonists trying to copy the funky Sanborn sound, it’s difficult for new artists not to get lost in the shuffle. A new release has to really have a good, strong sound and great songs to stand out…

  • cover to the 2023 recording Jazz Hands from contemporary jazz legend Bob James
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    Bob James – Jazz Hands

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    I feel badly that ContemporaryJazz.com has had no mention of the 2023 Bob James recording Jazz Hands. It is contemporary jazz. Bob James is a figurehead in contemporary jazz. When a legend releases new material, it should be noted. Jazz Hands maintains the same spirit of adventure Bob James has demonstrated in over six decades…

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    Nicholas Payton – Drip

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    Nicholas Payton, a multi-faceted jazz artist and social activist, recently released his 26th recording, Drip. The album features new versions of six previously recorded compositions, including collaborations with Robert Glasper, Michael Franks, and Patrice Rushen. Payton emphasizes the importance of life experiences in his work, with a goal to uplift his audience and challenge status…

  • top selling contemporary jazz in June 1988: Bobby McFerrin, Kirk Whalum, Basia, Rippingtons, David Benoit, George Howard, John Patitucci, Tuck and Patti and more
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    Top Contemporary Jazz Albums – June 25, 1988

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    Bobby McFerrin had the top recording on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Albums chart 35 years ago. Simple Pleasures was spending its second week as the #1 album the week of June 25, 1988. Simple Pleasures was a bestseller thanks to the massive success of the single “Don’t Worry Be Happy” According to McFerrin on the…