As versatile on the classics (“Darn that Dream”) as on original material (“Flint Water Crisis”), Benny “Saxable” Rubin Jr. leads with precision and clarity. He has the chops and guts for unexpected changes like a Monk disciple and has definitely empowered his ensemble to embrace their creativity too. Inspired by social unrest and the quest... Continue Reading →
A command of tone, key, breath and flow defines saxophone musician Roxy Coss. A thick yet easy bebop lassos the listener from the first beat on “Don’t Cross the Coss,” one of an armful of songs on the new CD titled “Quintet.” A smart beat (Jimmy Macbride/drums) launches “Free to Be” with sweet melodic bits... Continue Reading →
Bassist Harvie S has played with icons and keeps the groove hot and deep with fresh new music. His “Ten Duets” really let the basses talk, with Harvie playing so richly it sounds like he’s using a bow. The clarity of both instrumentalists defy relegation of the bass to the back of the stage and... Continue Reading →
Avelia Moisey pours her talents into her horn and her lyrics; in each, with spice, humor and bravado. Her CD “From the Shadows” is a duet with pianist Bruce Boardman. Nine tracks (one composed as a bet: “ConeWorld,” see below) with a clear tone, sass and character. “On the Way” feels like Nawlins; “Just Contented”... Continue Reading →
Debbie Burke - jazz author 
You must be logged in to post a comment.