With a nod to tradition, Swedish pianist Magnus Hjorth combines elements of the swing and dexterity of Oscar Peterson with Count Basie’s understated yet captivating style. With the stellar sidemen of Lasse Mørck on bass and Snorre Kirk on drums, this trio combines for a fantastic outing on this 2014 release. This is an album that deserves your attention for both great jazz and sound quality as well. Find Blue Interval on TIDAL.
Recorded in 1998, this is an album that has stood the test
of time sounding every bit as good now as it did back then (both musically and
sonically).
How is this possibly a debut album? Only one listen is needed to know this will be one of the best jazz albums of 2021. This is the type of album one might see from an industry veteran of many years. Her expressive voice evokes a feel like Nina Simone chock full of emotion and soul. She possesses power and control, but uses her vocal prowess wisely without going over the top with acrobatics. One listen to the song “Fix It” and you’re taken back to what sounds like an incredible piano ballad version of “Flamenco Sketches” by Miles Davis. Highly recommended! Find it on Tidal.
You may have heard of Amythyst Kiah from the Americana/Folk
supergroup “Our Native Daughters” along with Rhiannon Giddens, Leyla McCalla
and Allison Russell. Her song “Black Myself” on their album received a Grammy
nomination for Best American Roots song. The song, however, is reimagined here
on “Wary + Strange” with a much heavier rock vibe featuring not only Amythyst’s
incredible vocals but a bevy of guitars, bass and drums that gives the song
incredible drive. This album “Wary + Strange” is an incredible album that combines
alt rock, blues and roots music. She may be known for her guitar work, but it’s
her vocals that will really grab you. The biggest compliment I can give is
think of her sound as a more rock-based and edgier Tracy Chapman. Find the
album on Tidal.