Preston Frazier’s Best of 2023 Jazz list includes Jose James, Jamie Leonhart, Ron Blake, Lucas Pino, Nick Finzer and others. Here’s a look back:
JOSE JAMES – ‘ON AND ON’: One would think Jose James might retread some of his past successes but instead he took yet another big career leap forward with On and On, a searching exploration of the music of Erykah Badu. The album was recorded live in one take and it’s as if the band has been playing together for years, not the one day in June 2022 when On and On was recorded. James’ interpretation and arrangement of Badu’s songs seem a perfect match to the talent he employed, as does his delicate phrasing. The closing song, “Bag Lady,” only confirms the genius of Erykah Badu. Jose James’s version provides a laid-back rhythm track, with Ben Williams sounding particularly inspired on bass and Jharis Yokley providing a nuanced groove. It’s a fitting end to a near-perfect journey.
JAMIE LEONHART – ‘THE ILLUSION OF BLUE (SIDE A)’ EP: Along with its companion EP, The Illusion of Blue (Side A) builds upon Jamie Leonhart’s previous acclaimed albums like the deeply introspective The Truth About Suffering. Her emotive storytelling and poetic lyrics draw listeners into a world of introspection and emotional exploration. The vulnerability in her voice lays bare the complexities of love, loss, and self-discovery, inviting listeners to delve into their own experiences. This a profound musical journey that bears witness to Leonhart’s evolution as an artist. This EP is a must-listen, representing the pinnacle of her artistry – and it’s just one part of the The Illusion of Blue set …
JAMIE LEONHART – ‘THE ILLUSION OF BLUE (SIDE B)’ EP: This musical journey features more exquisite performances, only the focus shifts to interpretations of standards and classic pop songs. Like Side A, The Illusion of Blue (Side B) EP features a stellar lineup that creates a remarkable listening experience in support of Jamie Leonhart. The EP opens with the enchanting rendition of “Peace, Love and Understanding” which differs vastly from the original by Nick Lowe and subsequent cover by Elvis Costello. This sets the tone for the EP, weaving a tapestry of emotions through heartfelt lyrics and lush arrangements. The EP concludes with “Some Other Time” and the enchanting trumpet of Michael Leonhart.
ANGIE WELLS – ‘TRUTH BE TOLD’: This is an enchanting musical journey that showcases her exceptional talent and heartfelt storytelling. With the guidance of producer John Clayton, Angie Wells’ Truth Be Told strikes a perfect balance between soulful melodies and a few well-selected cover songs. One standout track is her cover of Nina Simone’s “Do I Move You,” which immediately grabs the listener’s attention with its infectious rhythm and powerful vocal delivery. A small circle of assembled musicians brings out the best of Wells’ already heady compositions, while adding nuance to the covers. The collaboration between Angie Wells and producer John Clayton is undoubtedly a match made in musical heaven.
RON BLAKE – ‘MISTAKEN IDENTITY’: Baritone and tenor saxophone master Ron Blake returns to original releases on an album recorded over an extended period. Mistaken Identity showcases the prowess of producer and guitarist Bobby Broom, along with the impeccable drumming by Kobie Watkins. The original compositions “Beyond Yesterday’s Tomorrows” and “Grace Ann” exhibit Blake’s innovative musical style, incorporating elements of jazz and contemporary sounds. Mistaken Identity also features Nate Reeves on bass for five songs and Reuben Rogers on four. The synergy between the musicians and the diversity of compositions make this album a standout in the contemporary jazz scene.
LUCAS PINO – ‘COVERS’: As the title implies, saxophonist Lucas Pino delivers an album of jazz covers. A much-sought-after sideman based out of New York, Pino doesn’t play it safe here. The eight songs on Covers are brought to life by his talented quartet, which features guitarist Alex Goodman, bassist Rick Rosato, and drummer Allan Mednard. The resulting album is challenging, engaging and inspiring. Never one to take the safe route, Lucas Pino steps out with authority on “REL” by Peter Schlamb, with his soulful tone and full-bodied delivery. The album-closing “Waltz for MD” draws the listener further in with its dynamic interplay between band members and dynamic arrangement. Covers is a winner from start to finish delivering eight finely honed songs.
VAHAGN STEPANYAN – ‘A NEW CHAPTER’: Since my last look at a Vahagn Stepanyan album, he and his family moved from Armenia to Los Angeles. This new chapter in his life is the foundation of these eight powerful songs. His playing is dynamic, expressive, and full of nuance, effortlessly conveying a wide spectrum of emotions throughout each track. The album is in many ways a continuation of the musical themes from 2015’s stellar Moonlight. Whether he is delivering soulful melodies or energetic improvisations, Stepanyan’s technical prowess shines through. A New Chapter is carefully crafted, demonstrating Stepanyan’s ability to create memorable melodies and intricate musical arrangements. Each track tells a story, taking the listener on a sonic journey through a variety of moods and atmospheres.
NICK FINZER – ‘DREAMS, VISIONS, ILLUSIONS’: Nick Finzer returns with 10 challenging original compositions. The trombonist, band leader and composer kept busy during the pandemic by composing an album that is on par with 2019’s terrific Cast of Characters. The collaborations on Dreams, Visions, Illusions sound like the work of a band that has been playing together forever. (In reality, it’s been more than 10 years.) Each of its three segments is a powerful statement which adds to the cohesiveness of the project. Recorded in just one day in July 2022, Dreams, Visions, Illusions is a must-have.
ESTHESIS QUARTET – ‘TIME ZONES’: Four stellar musicians living in four different time zones in the U.S. produced a robust and dynamic work. The all-female band shared and arranged this second album via Zoom, finding time between their roles as educators to complete Time Zones. “Serial” smokes with a dynamic passion, urged along by flight-of-fancy drumming by Tina Raymond and flute work by Elsa Nilsson. “Blue Light” shimmers thanks to pianist Dawn Clements’ terrific touch and bassist Emma Dayhuff’s feel. The album-closing “Getting Through” only cements the feeling that the Esthesis Quartet held nothing back in the composing and playing these compelling original songs.
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