jazz2love

Album Title: Deviate from Standards Artist: David Larsen Label: DLP Website:  https://larsenjazz.com Deviate from Standards , a compilation of original compositions by saxophonist David Larsen, emerged during the shutdowns imposed on global communities through the COVID-19 pandemic, as a means for him to keep playing music. The concept for the tracks evolved over time as Larsen worked on them, tweaking the arrangements and grooming the melodic layers. The final product swings with a kinetic propulsion that lifts listeners off the ground and through passages of fun-loving soundscapes. Ken Peplowski's clarinet is the driving force on "Augmented Reality," honing the track into a delightful romp. His playful interaction with Larsen's saxophone pervades a spontaneous jostling that is reminiscent of vintage jazz combo jamming. The rapid pulse of Nick Isherwood's bass secures a bedding of tiny quivers along "Smoke Screen," setting the jet-skiing pace of the tra...

Artist:  Brian Hudson Album:  Ahaya Label:  Lakeside Sound Website:  https://www.brian-hudson.com Cooking up an elevating hybrid with components of funk, rhythm and blues, pop/rock, and jazz roots, Brian Hudson produces an attractive commodity rife with spirit and soul for his 3-track EP Ahaya .  A bandleader, drummer and composer, Hudson maintains a magnetic appeal through the 3 scores, imbued with a contemporary vibe at every level from its core to its morphing layers. Supported by Adam Nitti on bass, Randy Hoexter on keys, Sam Skelton on saxophone, and Anthony Papamichael on guitar, Hudson achieves a smooth jazz sonorous that propels joy from start to finish.  "Luna Sea" opens the recording with a elegant, funky beat shrouded in ruminating saxophone toots and a steady guitar riff.  The lyrical phrasing in Hoexter's keys coasting along "Caladesi" is layered in the extemporaneous versing of Papamichael's guitar riffs, effectively creating a cheerful a...