New Music Monday for February 9, 2015

New Music Playlist on YouTube and Spotify.

     Tradition is an overused word in jazz—tradition is important, but the continuum of jazz is far more important because it’s not just about where the music’s been but where it is going. Two people that symbolize the continuum are pianist Justin Kauflin and his mentor, iconic trumpeter Clark Terry. The new documentary film, “Keep on Keepin’ On,” explores the close relationship that has developed between the two. Terry also imparted much knowledge to a young Quincy Jones when he was embarking on his musical journey as a trumpeter. As if to complete the circle Kauflin—who met Jones via Terry—joined Quincy on his 2013-2014 world tour. Now the multi-Grammy Award winning Jones has produced Kauflin’s second disc as a leader, “Dedication.”

     For his fifth release for Savant Records, alto saxophonist Jim Snidero draws from a quarter-century of touring to create a compelling sonic trip across America. “Main Street” is inspired by towns throughout the United States and features one of the hippest rhythm sections in jazz; pianist Fabian Almazan, bassist Linda Oh and drummer Rudy Royston. The CD includes five originals by Snidero, a piece by Gil Evans, and a surprising version of the cowboy lament, “The Streets of Laredo.” 

      Also this week, trumpeter Joshua Bruneau, a product of the Hartt School’s Jackie McLean Institute of Jazz and now a faculty member of The Artist’s Collective in Hartford, Connecticut, debuts with “Bright Idea”; trombonist David Gibson explodes strongly back on the scene with a new quintet date, “Boom!”; and pianist and Atlanta native Joe Alterman is joined by Houston Person, Gregory Hutchinson and Reuben Rogers for his first release, “Georgia Sunset.”