Articles by: S. Victor Aaron

Vinyl

Bobby Previte – Rhapsody (2018)

Whether it’s individual heroics or wonderful ensemble symmetry, ‘Rhapsody’ begins with the mind of Bobby Previte. He not only had a concept but saw it to a fully developed work that stays true to its mission and articulated it well.

Vinyl

Jason Stein’s Locksmith Isidore – After Caroline (2018)

The return of Jason Stein’s Locksmith Isidore with ‘After Caroline’ is a welcome one because these guys don’t slouch for a second in taking on Stein’s challenging material.

Vinyl

Big Heart Machine, “Dipsea Steps” from Big Heart Machine (2018): Something Else! premiere

Here is the streaming premiere of “Dipsea Steps” from Brian Krock’s exciting new big band, Big Heart Machine.

Vinyl

Rob Dixon Trio, with Charlie Hunter and Mike Clark – Coast To Crossroads (2018)

The Rob Dixon Trio’s ‘Coast To Crossroads’ is funk-jazz that’s the best because it comes from the best.

Vinyl

The Necks – Body (2018)

Sounding very much like themselves while incrementally reinventing themselves, The Necks’ constant tweaking of their formula keeps the music fresh and full of fascination. ‘Body’ nudges the band forward on their long, highly rewarding journey.

Vinyl

Little Freddie King – ‘Fried Rice & Chicken’ (2018)

If you haven’t yet discovered the hidden blues treasure Little Freddie King, ‘Fried Rice & Chicken’ is a perfect way to get acquainted.

John Mellencamp's Dark, Down-Home Life, Death, Love and Freedom Still Resonates

John Mellencamp’s Dark, Down-Home Life, Death, Love and Freedom Still Resonates

Ten years ago, John Mellencamp confirmed a late-career renaissance with the T Bone Burnett-produced ‘Life, Death, Love and Freedom.’

Vinyl

Connie Han, “Crime Zone” from Crime Zone (2018): Something Else! premiere

Here is the premiere of “Crime Zone,” the title song from pianist and composer Connie Han’s Mack Avenue Records debut album.

Vinyl

Rich Halley 3 – The Literature (2018)

You may not necessarily learn a whole lot more about the originators for the songs featured in ‘The Literature,’ but you’re bound to understand Rich Halley a little better. His sweet and spicy artistry uses a lot of quality ingredients.

Vinyl

Satoko Fujii and Joe Fonda – Mizu (2018)

Satoko Fujii’s and Joe Fonda’s ‘Mizu’ shows the deepening musical communion between pianist and bassist, as this disc captures three of their co-composed pieces performed over two nights in Europe.