contemporary jazz
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Remembering Jim Beard
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I first came across Jim Beard’s music on the Michael Brecker recording Now You See It… . He was playing keyboards on this contemporary jazz recording, making modern sounds and jazzing things up. His compositions on that album, “Ode to the Doo Day Day” and especially “Quiet City,” remain some of my favorite memorable songs…
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Live Music from Grover Washington, Jr. and Al Jarreau
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In recent months, live recordings from two contemporary jazz titans — Grover Washington Jr. and Al Jarreau — have been released, offering fans a fresh opportunity to experience their brilliance. Grover Live, Vol. 2, recorded in 1998, showcases the legendary saxophonist in peak form. Produced by Grammy-winner and contemporary jazz veteran Jason Miles, this album…
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Top Contemporary Jazz – December 3, 1999
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The top ten contemporary jazz recordings 25 years ago, ranked by ContemporaryJazz.com! As it was in the 1990s, Kenny G topped the chart. However, this week he had two recordings: his renditions of standards and his third holiday album. Other Christmas and holiday music were moving into the top 10, including a nice compilation from…
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Spyro Gyra Celebrates 50th Anniversary with New Compilation “Jubilee”
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Spyro Gyra has announced the release of a special compilation, titled “Jubilee,” in celebration of their 50th anniversary. The collection, set to be released in November, highlights the band’s evolving sound from their first decade of recording (1977-87). About the Release “Jubilee” will be available in two formats: a 2-LP gold and purple colored vinyl…
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Driving Beverly Hills – Mark Portmann goes solo in 1994
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Before he became a nine-time Grammy nominee, a baby-faced Mark Portmann was a part of the contemporary jazz scene. Here’s a review of his Driving Beverly Hills release that I originally wrote 30 years ago (with some updates). Playing with one of top groups in contemporary jazz was bound to have an effect. Mark Portmann…