New Arrivals
- Mariea Antoinette
- This Christmas
- Masaai/Infinity Productions
- Ariel B
- Unwrapped
- Weberworks Entertainment Group
- Sylvia Bennett
- A Smooth Jazz Holiday
- Out of Sight Music
- Phil Casagrande
- Christmastime Is Here
- PhilCasaGrandeMusic
- Eric Knight
- The Christmas Song
- EricKnightSax.com
- Bryan Lubeck
- Welcome Winter
- VMP
- Shawn Raiford
- Santa Baby
- Shawn Raiford Sax Productions
- Nick Stefanacci
- Christmas Eve
- Sweet Lion Music
- Gary Taylor
- Christmas That I Know
- Morning Crew Music, Inc.
- Threestyle feat. Magdalena Chovancova & Robert Fertl
- Oh! It's Christmas feat Damon Dae
- Welovemusic Records
- Dennis van Aarssen
- Christmas When You're Here (Deluxe Edition)
- DVA Music Powered By AOE
Listening Loft : HOLIDAY

Bringing earthy soul to an instrument often connected to the heavenly realms, harp virtuoso Mariea Antoinette has galvanized Smooth Jazz with her dramatic, gorgeously melodic presence over the last decade, hitting #1 on the Billboard Smooth Jazz charts, headlining prestigious halls, private events and festivals and even performing for former First Lady Michelle Obama. Just when we think she’s perhaps done it all, her golden strings and spirited sweetness inspire us anew with an inspiring new holiday treat – a lovely, soaring and deliciously funky twist on Donny Hathaway’s uplifting R&B classic “This Christmas.” Blending an atmospheric ethereal flow with deep grooves, Antoinette infuses the oft-covered contemporary standard with fresh infectious energy while setting the stage for her upcoming 4th album FIERCE.

When it comes to Holiday recordings, it’s always delightful when an artist graces us with memorable new tunes (and potential future classics) among the favorites. San Francisco Bay Area R&B/jazz singer/songwriter Ariel B delivers the bright, tinselly and seductive goods on UNWRAPPED. Produced by Grammy winner Jeffrey Weber and featuring top tier pop/jazz musicians, the EP finds the multi-lingual (Italian, German, French, English) vocalist complementing fresh twists on a Wham! smash and standard perennials with two funky, vibrant and super-sweet originals, "Don't Wake Me Up" and "Candy Cane Love," penned with Ariana Grande’s music director Troy Laureta.

From Lionel Hampton, the legend who discovered Sylvia Bennett raving “Her magic gets to the ears and hearts of the audience,” to later Smooth Jazz collaborators Paul Brown, Rick Braun and Nathan East, jazz cats have been enamored of the multi-talented song stylist for decades. Her warm and wonderful, inspiring and rhythmically festive EP A SMOOTH JAZZ HOLIDAY is the perfect bookend to her equally lovely and joyous 2009 album IT’S CHRISTMASTIME WITH SYLVIA BENNETT – and even features a callback to a sparkling track on that album penned by longtime collaborator and producer Hal Batt. Evenly balanced between urban jazz arrangements of classics and charming, whimsical originals (including a Bennett/Batt tune with a global reggae vibe), the collection features dynamic solo spots by Paul Brown and Ed Calle.

Veteran keyboardist/composer/producer Phil Casagrande has come a long way since his first Billboard charting song at age 25, including sessions with P-Funk vocalist Jessica Cleaves and six contemporary jazz albums in the 2010s, followed by a flurry of stylistically eclectic singles and club and chill mixes these past few years. Over the years, his popular instrumentals have charted on SmoothJazz.com and Groove Jazz charts and the Mediabase Smooth Adult Contemporary chart. Casagrande’s first Holiday single since 2019’s “Silver Bells” is a reflective, moody take on Vince Guaraldi’s “Christmastime is Here.” The sparsely arranged track offers a beautiful, intimate showcase of his traditionally-minded piano virtuosity that sticks tightly to the famed melody, tempo and mood of the original before venturing into exciting and adventurous improvisations.
Unleashing the full force of the saxophone prowess he once brought to stages worldwide with The Rolling Stones, Prince, J Lo, Etta James and others, Eric Knight has empowered Smooth Jazz listeners throughout 2023 with tasteful and inspiring re-imaginings of classic R&B hits by Gnarls Barkley, SWV and Tevin Campbell – all of which are slated to appear on his upcoming debut album COVER 2 COVER, VOL 1. For the Holiday season, Knight and his producer Steven Wolf reach back further for an intimate, contemporary gospel-tinged, soul-jazz twist on Mel Torme’s timeless “The Christmas Song.” Over a seductive groove, Knight brings the passionate magic first through his intimately delivered lyrical soprano melody, then ups the emotion by a soaring harmonic blend of sax and angelic choir vocals all before unleashing his powerful alto solo.

After launching his career with three vineyard-inspired albums in his first decade of recording, Spanish-style, acoustic guitarist/composer Bryan Lubeck won great acclaim – including a Holiday Critics’ Choice pick from Billboard – for WE THREE KINGS, his holiday album with fellow string master Johannes Linstead. Lubeck’s vibrant, mostly easy rolling new collection WELCOME WINTER is a sequel of sorts, a warm-hearted, rhythmically diverse showcase for his own romantic string stylings textured with the fresh sonic colorings of violins, cellos, dulcimer, melodica, percussion and vibraphones – plus a tender duet with clarinetist Eric Salazar on a favorite (literal!) chestnut. The guitarist fashions the album as a nod to his childhood inspirations from popular Windham Hill artists including George Winston, to whom the project is lovingly dedicated.

A much beloved fixture for the last decade playing clubs, festivals, private events and the historical Delta King Riverboat in the Sacramento area, Shawn Raiford has long called his ever-evolving ensemble the SRE (Shawn Raiford Experience) because – drawing on his passions for contemporary jazz, R&B, gospel, rock and pop – that’s what the multi-talented saxophonist promises every time he and his cohorts take the stage. His first release since making an initial impact in Smooth Jazz with his 2020 debut album MAN WITH A HORN, Raiford breathes fresh, sultry bounce into the classic “Santa Baby” with a delightfully traditional, seductive, soulful version buoyed by a lush orchestral string arrangement. Listening to this track after re-visiting his earlier collection is a great way to experience the depth Raiford’s expansive and heartfelt artistry offers.

As he’s eased these past few years from well-established pop fusion artist to making a promising impact in Smooth Jazz, saxophonist Nick Stefanacci has recorded his share of exciting cover tunes from the likes of Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson and Diana Ross. This holiday season, the multi-talented musician, songwriter and producer is gracing us with “Christmas Eve,” a glistening original that has “instant classic” potential. Featuring the silky vocals and playful scat of guest artist Rich Aveo, the track begins as a warm, tender love song before the rhythms pop harder and the tune evolves into a high energy showcase for Stefanacci’s trademark horn fire. You can listen to the song long after Christmas Eve. It’s the second lead single from the saxophonist’s Spring 2024 EP release SECRETS.

Though the release of this warmly nostalgic ballad “Christmas That I Know” marks 40 years since his major label debut album, veteran jazz-glazed soul singer Gary Taylor may be best known as a behind the scenes powerhouse. As a vocalist, he’s backed up The Whispers, Vanessa Williams and Nancy Wilson, and as a songwriter, his tunes have been recorded by the likes of Grover Washington, Jr., Anita Baker, Walter Beasley, George Clinton, Ray Parker Jr. and Lalah Hathaway. Achieving his goal to return “back to the warm, happy and loving times of the holiday season,” this silky new single (and its colorful animated video) features lyrical imagery that captures all the sweetness, wonder, joy and enchantment of an unforgettable Christmas!

Officially starting the countdown, #1 Billboard-charting, multi-award winning trio Threestyle spectacularly reminds us, OH! IT’S CHRISTMAS, on their hip, romantic and inspiring, urban jazz flavored EP loaded with all-original Holiday classics in the making. Though propelled by the smoldering energy of founding members, guitarist Robert Fertl, saxophonist Magdalena Chovancova and drummer Gabriela Chovancova, guest vocalist Damon Dae steals the show and creates endless seasonal magic with his engaging, ultra-soulful delivery of some gift-wrapped goodies. Complementing those tracks, Threestyle creates two renditions of a spiritual minded tune – one showcasing Magdalena's soaring horn passion, the other a rousing invitation to Christmas at a gospel church.
Be sure not to miss the ThreeStyle Jazz Radio Show featuring Smooth Jazz favorites as well as tracks from their albums!

Though Dennis van Aarssen released two popular non-seasonal recordings after winning The Voice of Holland 2019, the multi-talented singer, songwriter and leader of the DvA Bigband had his sights set on creating a holiday album even before he had a career in music. Living up to his bold statement that “Christmas is something that just belongs to me,” he was inspired to record his 2022 collection CHRISTMAS WHEN YOU’RE HERE by Jamie Cullum. Animated by a vibrant 20+ piece big band, these songs, penned with American songwriters Jeff Franzel and Maria Christensen, feel as powerfully evergreen as the classics. Van Aarssen adds to the bliss with the album’s new DELUXE EDITION, featuring two new nostalgic, romantic and poppin’ originals plus a spirited swing arrangement of a Paul McCartney chestnut.
Listening Loft : HOTPICKS

Bringing earthy soul to an instrument often connected to the heavenly realms, harp virtuoso Mariea Antoinette has galvanized Smooth Jazz with her dramatic, gorgeously melodic presence over the last decade, hitting #1 on the Billboard Smooth Jazz charts, headlining prestigious halls, private events and festivals and even performing for former First Lady Michelle Obama. Just when we think she’s perhaps done it all, her golden strings and spirited sweetness inspire us anew with an inspiring new holiday treat – a lovely, soaring and deliciously funky twist on Donny Hathaway’s uplifting R&B classic “This Christmas.” Blending an atmospheric ethereal flow with deep grooves, Antoinette infuses the oft-covered contemporary standard with fresh infectious energy while setting the stage for her upcoming 4th album FIERCE.

From Lionel Hampton, the legend who discovered Sylvia Bennett raving “Her magic gets to the ears and hearts of the audience,” to later Smooth Jazz collaborators Paul Brown, Rick Braun and Nathan East, jazz cats have been enamored of the multi-talented song stylist for decades. Her warm and wonderful, inspiring and rhythmically festive EP A SMOOTH JAZZ HOLIDAY is the perfect bookend to her equally lovely and joyous 2009 album IT’S CHRISTMASTIME WITH SYLVIA BENNETT – and even features a callback to a sparkling track on that album penned by longtime collaborator and producer Hal Batt. Evenly balanced between urban jazz arrangements of classics and charming, whimsical originals (including a Bennett/Batt tune with a global reggae vibe), the collection features dynamic solo spots by Paul Brown and Ed Calle.

Wayne Gutshall first rocked and grooved the Smooth Jazz world with five #1 singles on the SmoothJazz.com Global Listener Chart from his aptly titled debut album SPICY!, the irrepressibly melodic and romantic saxophonist is back with “For The Love,” a smoldering follow-up to his previous radio smash, “Spanish Love” feat Steve Oliver! This alluring new single offers a dazzlingly dynamic horn duality with stylish flugelhornist Rob Zinn, as the two intertwine harmonically to a stirring effect as they engage in some crafty improvisational conversations. Though the Latin vibe is subtle, Gutshall will forever be influenced by his time working with top names in Latin music including Ed Calle, Arturo Sandoval, Nestor Torres and Dave Valentin!

World-renowned Tony nominee, New York Cabaret Award winner, and Women Songwriter Hall of Fame inductee, Ann Hampton Callaway, has primarily built her legacy as a formidable interpreter of great standards and songbooks of legendary singers, from Ella Fitzgerald to most recently, Peggy Lee. Though she’s recorded many of her own songs over the years and had others recorded by the likes of Barbra Streisand and Karrin Allison, her fourth Shanachie album FINDING BEAUTY is her first-ever collection devoted to mining her catalog of original tender-hearted, lyrically insightful personal songs. While focused mostly on Callaway’s dazzling way with emotion-filled ballads, the luminous, intensely revelatory 16-track collection includes several inspirational up-tempo gems. Callaway also proves herself a master collaborator on tunes featuring Kurt Elling, Tierney Sutton, Melissa Manchester, and her sister, actress and recording artist, Liz Callaway.

Often described vocally as a cross between Ella Fitzgerald and Tina Turner, veteran Australian singer-songwriter Skii Harvey is a celebrated citizen of the world, recognized by the Billboard Music Awards, the UK Songwriting Awards and Australian Songwriter’s Association. Over a dozen years after launching her recording career, she profoundly shifts sonic gears on her heartrending, soul-piercing and incredibly cathartic EP WAITING with renowned South Korean producer and K-pop artist Mackelli. The sequel/emotional aftermath to her powerful heartbreak chronicle BROKEN, this four-ballad collection finds her taking stock of the past, moving slowly passed the pain and embracing the fact that she no longer must wait for happiness. She also slyly embraces the reality that the wait for true love (after one that wasn’t) captures the heart in perpetuity.

According to the UK collective’s legendary founder, guitarist and producer Jean-Paul “Bluey” Maunick, he’s a “man on a mission and music is my only weapon.” Celebrating 44 years of groundbreaking funk, jazz, R&B and dance music with INTO YOU – a generous 16-track (double album length) creative explosion of sexy and intimate sellections, horn-drenched disco-fied thumpers and cool, mid-tempo, Smooth Jazz flavored delights. One of the greatest joys of this ever-evolving ensemble is Maunick’s spirit of collaboration with longtime associates like keyboardist/drummer Richard Bull and fresh, dynamic musicians from Europe and Asia, including guitarist Charlie Allen. Incognito’s longtime trademark of introducing sweet soul singers is in full effect with featured fresh lead vocals of Natalie Duncan and Cherri V.

Officially, contemporary jazz supergroup Fourplay had three legendary guitarists over its quarter century run – Lee Ritenour, Larry Carlton and the late Chuck Loeb. Yet Seoul born, NYC-based Jack Lee, Korea’s most recognized world class jazz guitarist, has done so many amazing projects with Bob James, Nathan East and Harvey Mason he could qualify as an honorary member. HEART AND SOUL, Lee’s latest, perfectly titled album with East, is a sprawling, deeply heartfelt and blues-infused, gospel jazz session that gets to the heart of faith via numerous stylistic twists and turns. Lee and East include an easy-flowing meditation on a holiday perennial, a funky strut through a Stevie Wonder jam, a dramatic church worthy rendering of a Paul Simon classic and unique arrangements of familiar sacred hymns.

An endlessly creative man of a million grooves since releasing his first Jeff Lorber Fusion album in 1977, the Grammy-winning keyboardist/producer is working double shifts these days. In addition to leading his resurrected star-studded Fusion to the tune of 10 albums in 13 years - including their latest explosive urban jazz funk-o-rama THE DROP – he’s creating equally tasty, improv-heavy jams with his Jazz Funk Soul cohorts Everette Harp and Paul Jackson, Jr. The new collection features Lorber’s trademark array of tight rhythms of varying tempos (laid back, punchy, mid-tempo, fast/furious) topped with his wild piano and retro-keyboard melodies and solos and the otherworldly ensemble energy of genre greats including long time music partner Jimmy Haslip, JFS's Jackson, Jr., Snarky Puppy guitarist Marc Lettieri, drummer Gary Novak and saxman David Mann.

After launching his career with three vineyard-inspired albums in his first decade of recording, Spanish-style, acoustic guitarist/composer Bryan Lubeck won great acclaim – including a Holiday Critics’ Choice pick from Billboard – for WE THREE KINGS, his holiday album with fellow string master Johannes Linstead. Lubeck’s vibrant, mostly easy rolling new collection WELCOME WINTER is a sequel of sorts, a warm-hearted, rhythmically diverse showcase for his own romantic string stylings textured with the fresh sonic colorings of violins, cellos, dulcimer, melodica, percussion and vibraphones – plus a tender duet with clarinetist Eric Salazar on a favorite (literal!) chestnut. The guitarist fashions the album as a nod to his childhood inspirations from popular Windham Hill artists including George Winston, to whom the project is lovingly dedicated.
Fresh off his 2022 Soul Café Radio Indie Soul Awards nomination, versatile saxophonist Dee Lucas – closing in on 20 years as a recording artist – is set on fulfilling a dual mission as he releases his wildly eclectic, genre pushing new album NO BOUNDARIES. First, he’s committed to creating music as a coping mechanism for others, which in turn brings joy to his listeners. Second, reflective of the project’s theme, to make music that evolves with less restrictions and expectations. While keeping his infectious melodies and lyrical, ever-grooving horn vibe front and center, Lucas’ outside the box/comfort zone vision leads to an expansive palette of expressions, tapping into his cross-pollinating passions for pop, rock, funk, R&B and jazz and inspiring interactions with Blair Bryant, Gino Rosaria, Selina Albright, David P. Stevens and Ragan Whiteside.

Consistent with the musical tone and overall philosophy of his 2021 collection A RAY OF HOPE, veteran bassist Michael Manson keeps the relentlessly joyful, high stylin’ vibes flowing on “On the Up and Up” – the hard-grooving lead single from his upcoming RIDESHARE album featuring tight horns, bubbly improvisations, soaring energy and spirited musical conversations with Marcus Miller’s saxophonist Donald Hayes and former Rippingtons’ keyboardist Dave Kochanski. While best known for playing with Smooth Jazz greats like Steve Cole, Brian Culbertson, Kirk Whalum, Larry Carlton and George Duke, along with his wife Lana Manson is also co-founder of the Chicago based Musical Arts Institute, a non-profit school launched in 2010 that has serves thousands of students and families who lack the resources for a formal high quality music education.

Twelve years after releasing his debut recording, the first of four conceptual THE COLOR OF SOUNDSCAPE projects, Rei Narita brings his freewheeling, uber-melodic and ever-grooving artistry to his latest adventurous easy funk single “Île des Pins –Kunie-” – the title is in reference to “Isle of Pines,” an exotic French Island in the South Pacific. Long known as Asia’s premiere pioneer of Smooth Jazz, the multi-talented, highly prolific pianist, composer and producer offers the perfect autumn pick-me-up with a track full of lively and exciting improvisation that may remind fans of David Benoit. In creating emotionally provocative music designed to evoke the scenery of the sea at a resort and fulfilling his core philosophy “In Pursuit of Beauty,” Narita plays his antique piano “C. Bechstein,” built in 1896.

After releasing ILLUMINATE in 2018, Steve Oliver engaged in some cool side projects, including a popular duet album with Brian Simpson and a set of acoustic re-imaginings of his greatest hits. Now, the prolific Smooth Jazz hitmaker a journalist once called “musical Disneyland” (for his sunny personality and composing style) is back in snappy, melodic and sonically adventurous radio-friendly mode with A NEW LIGHT. Perfectly in line with his other instantly infectious albums with similarly light-bearing titles, the collection – co-produced by genre mega-hitmaker Michael Broening – offers a blend of funky-breezy drive time jams, gently caressing ballads (one featuring saxman Jeff Kashiwa) and exciting dashes of percussive exotica featuring the one-two punch of his dynamic strings and trademark dreamy wordless and percussive vocals.

A much beloved fixture for the last decade playing clubs, festivals, private events and the historical Delta King Riverboat in the Sacramento area, Shawn Raiford has long called his ever-evolving ensemble the SRE (Shawn Raiford Experience) because – drawing on his passions for contemporary jazz, R&B, gospel, rock and pop – that’s what the multi-talented saxophonist promises every time he and his cohorts take the stage. His first release since making an initial impact in Smooth Jazz with his 2020 debut album MAN WITH A HORN, Raiford breathes fresh, sultry bounce into the classic “Santa Baby” with a delightfully traditional, seductive, soulful version buoyed by a lush orchestral string arrangement. Listening to this track after re-visiting his earlier collection is a great way to experience the depth Raiford’s expansive and heartfelt artistry offers.

A much beloved fixture for the last decade playing clubs, festivals, private events and the historical Delta King Riverboat in the Sacramento area, Shawn Raiford has long called his ever-evolving ensemble the SRE (Shawn Raiford Experience) because – drawing on his passions for contemporary jazz, R&B, gospel, rock and pop – that’s what the multi-talented saxophonist promises every time he and his cohorts take the stage. His first release since making an initial impact in Smooth Jazz with his 2020 debut album MAN WITH A HORN, Raiford breathes fresh, sultry bounce into the classic “Santa Baby” with a delightfully traditional, seductive, soulful version buoyed by a lush orchestral string arrangement. Listening to this track after re-visiting his earlier collection is a great way to experience the depth Raiford’s expansive and heartfelt artistry offers.

With the release of GOOD MEDICINE, an inviting mix of spirited contemporary jazz, robust funk and sensual balladry, six-piece Bay Area ensemble Rainforest Band confirms its status as one of Smooth Jazz’s most environmentally conscious artists. Launched in 2017 by R&B/Gospel soul veterans Tony Saunders (bass), Vernon “Ice” Black (guitar) and Sylvester Burks (keyboards), the group refashions the eco-minded aesthetic of BLUES FROM THE RAINFOREST – A MUSICAL SUITE, an early 90s “environmental earth music album” created by Saunders’ father, famed keyboardist Merl Saunders, and the legendary Jerry Garcia. While the soaring power and passion of saxophonist Dave Ellis ensures that this collection is more horn-centric than their debut, there’s also plenty of urban jazz and groovin’ soul from Saunders and tasty, melodic guitar magic from Black and Lorn Leber. GOOD MEDICINE will make you feel good!

Italian composer and innovator Paolo Rustichelli saw jazz icon Miles Davis at the Umbria Jazz Festival in the summer of 1986. Rustichelli slipped Miles’ manager a demo cassette of his music. Several weeks later at the Rome Jazz Festival, intrigued by the demo, Miles invited Paolo to record with him and the magic began at a private studio in Europe. This session yielded beautiful results that have been stored away for decades, until now. “Love Divine” (The Smooth Jazz Mix) unearths these long-lost recordings and sets them into a contemporary yet timeless jazz setting. Steeped in perpetuity, this duet is likely to send chills down your arms and fill your heart with an unfamiliar hope… Almost like rewinding to a better place and time.

After a series of edgy electric guitar driven Smooth Jazz albums featuring beachy/summery titles like COAST DRIVE and RIDE THE WAVE, multi-talented musician-composer Will Sumner got more personal with his 2021 release OCEAN STREET, which featured songs emotionally connected to his longtime former family home in Carlsbad, where his mother lived until her passing at 96. On this latest, truly innovative sonic excursion MEADOWLARK, Will keeps his trademark blend of buoyant funk/rock, sensual atmospheric balladry and breezy, piano-enhanced melodic grace flowing in loving homage to the beautiful working alfalfa farm in Apple Valley, California owned by his grandmother in the 1960s and 1970s. The collection of infectious tunes brings to life grandma’s warmth and generosity, as well as the sweet nostalgia of his childhood summer vacations there.

Known collectively as The Southern Gentlemen, guitarist Eric Essix, trumpeter Joey Sommerville and violinist Michael Ward have reunited after an 8-year hiatus to release their debut single, the straight-up smooth “Back In The Game.” The group are planning for a 2024 tour, bringing their dynamic on-stage chemistry and compelling arrangement of musical instruments to venues across the land! Individually, the members have toured the world, performed, and recorded with some of the biggest names in the music industry, and have nearly 40 albums between them. The new single promises to propel up the Smooth Jazz radio charts and onto popular playlists worldwide as the ensemble returns with their signature raw energy and excitement and an even stronger sense of purpose and camaraderie!

The sophisticated, musical collective Ultrablue is the creation of in-demand New York-based keyboardist and composer John Smatla, a former music school teacher who made his way to the NY music scene from his hometown in Cleveland, OH. On the heels of the project's successful re-release of their star-studded self-titled 2006 recording, "Maria In Blue," rolls out in advance of the forthcoming NEW YORK STORIES recording featuring guest performances by Chieli Minucci, John Patitucci, David Mann and Omar Hakim. Inspired by the artistry of contemporary jazz guitar legend, Earl Klugh, Ultrablue's nod to nostalgia in a contemporary soundscape, offers up seductive and spicy Latin rhythms for Smatla and NYC session guitarist Bernd Schoenhart to deliver a sexy and playful melodic dance, interspersed with balmy solo guitar passages. A tasty peek at what’s to come with full album!

Saxophonist and keyboardist D.S. Wilson has teamed with recording artist, guitarist and producer Adam Hawley along with an all-star cast to produce SKYLINE, the 3rd full album of contemporary jazz featuring catchy melodies and solid grooves. The A-listers in the mix include Eric Valentine on drums, Mel Brown on bass and Carnell Harrell on keys. Paying homage to the bustling vibe of the Windy City, the project has released advance singles which have proven to grab the attention of radio stations and music fans around the world. His previous single, "Leave It To The Gods" has nearly 100k streams on Spotify! The successfully charting artist, performer and composer has experience in jazz, blues, pop and rock and all of these genres seamlessly flow through the tracks on SKYLINE, giving the listener an exciting experience from beginning to end.
Listening Loft : MUST HAVES

Acclaimed TV arranger/orchestrator and Tony Award nominee for the score of the Broadway Musical "Anna Karenina," multi-talented pianist/composer Dan Alan Levine says that “one of the nice things about Smooth Jazz is that it allows the spirit and soul to relax.” It’s joyfully ironic then, that the wondrously inviting, infectious tunes on his stylistically eclectic (and perfectly titled) debut album OVER THE MOON are peppy and optimistic. Advance singles are still receiving airplay around the world on Smooth Jazz radio and being featured on some of the most popular streaming Playlists. Mixed and mastered by chart-topping songsmith Peter Ferencz (Peet Project) and driven by light funk grooves that breeze along the pop, soul, jazz, tropical and Latin landscapes – with a dash of classical. Dan’s emotionally compelling melodies come to life with the support of two genre leading ladies, flutist Kim Scott and saxophonist Jeanette Harris. The full album release is celebrated with the latest single, the sultry "Always."

When it comes to Holiday recordings, it’s always delightful when an artist graces us with memorable new tunes (and potential future classics) among the favorites. San Francisco Bay Area R&B/jazz singer/songwriter Ariel B delivers the bright, tinselly and seductive goods on UNWRAPPED. Produced by Grammy winner Jeffrey Weber and featuring top tier pop/jazz musicians, the EP finds the multi-lingual (Italian, German, French, English) vocalist complementing fresh twists on a Wham! smash and standard perennials with two funky, vibrant and super-sweet originals, "Don't Wake Me Up" and "Candy Cane Love," penned with Ariana Grande’s music director Troy Laureta.

It’s listed as a “Fun Fact” on her bio, but when you listen to multi-talented, genre-busting (blues, jazz, pop soul) pianist, vocalist and composer/producer Jill Butler’s aptly titled, wildly and adventurous debut JOYRIDE, you’ll know it’s truly her ongoing mission – devoting 100% of her time to uplifting the soul and uniting hearts through music. She brings her fiery and frolicsome, homegrown Louisiana lightning to a slate featuring both shimmering, percussive piano driven originals (including tributes to her professional musician parents and regional legend Carol Fran) and fanciful twists on classics by Stevie Wonder, The Beatles, Charlie Chaplain and New Orleans great Allen Toussaint. While ensembling with a cadre of Louisiana Music Hall of Famers, Butler also spins fascinating flute, vibes and organ sounds on her synth.

Happily returning to his early musical passions since retiring from the IT world five years ago, Bob Coate has been on a prolific roll, with a non-stop array of (mostly) breezy titled singles embodying his free-flowing desire to create “Smooth Jazz and Beyond.” Vibing again with versatile keyboardist/producer Sonix, the self-taught, Virginia-based multi-instrumentalist follows his feisty Latin jam tune, “Mambo Rosalita,” with his new single “Moving The Groove.” It’s a tight, in the pocket soul/jazz/funk adventure showcasing ultra-melodic, silky and soaring flugelhorn stylings and Sonix’s mix of atmospheric synth excitement and George Duke styled improvisational vintage keyboard solo action. A lifelong fan of Herb Alpert and Chuck Mangione, Coate continues to bring the fruits of those great influences to dynamic contemporary settings.

Though based in South Africa where he is revered as one of the country’s top saxophonists, Karén Devroop is a true citizen of the world, collaborating with artists from all over the planet, performing at international jazz festivals and playing in symphonies in the U.S., Europe and his home country. Building upon the success of his 2020 release ANCESTRAL HOME - which received airplay in over 40 countries – his latest album RELENTLESS finds the multi-talented composer/performer and his all-star Smooth Jazz artists, from South Africa and beyond, on a mission to tantalize fans of everything from incendiary jazz/funk, whimsical dance music and moody, sensual power ballads to exotic mid-tempo jams, spirited tropical and Latin-tinged delights and inspirational vocal ballads. It’s a tasty cosmopolitan combination showcasing Devroop’s relentless passion for jazz.

A quote on keyboardist/composer Mike Di Lorenzo’s website reads “Let the Music Tell the Story.” The versatile artist did that early in his career performing with Whitney and Cissy Houston, Chuck Berry, Bo Diddley and many East Coast symphonies. A decade and a half since launching his solo career, he’s found a fresh way of sharing musical narratives on his two recent albums, including his latest, the masterfully hip, stylish and sophisticated PLAY IT COOL. He artfully pairs his formidable melodic and improvisational piano chops with vibrantly soulful vocalists Sonna Relé, Denise Stewart and Anna Moore. While creating graceful grooves and dreamy atmospheres around their featured vocals, he also showcases his dynamic range on acoustic and electric piano on a handful of free flowing, high-spirited instrumentals. Mike D'Lo always plays it cool... You can count on it!

Though veteran guitarist/composer Dr. Dave released two popular radio singles from his excellent 2014 album CAREFREE, the full project was never formally released. A few years later, he developed his dynamic ensemble of backing musicians into a bold, powerhouse unit known as The HouseCall Band. Fresh off multiple successful radio singles from their 2018 debut MIDNIGHT DAYDREAM, Dr. Dave & The HouseCall Band have created an explosive re-imagined version of the original collection titled CAREFREE REVISITED. It features a full-bodied horn section energy and flute elements that artfully enhance Dr. Dave’s colorful guitar solos. Complementing a freewheeling journey that includes everything from jazz and blues to calypso and the Beatles is a scat filled vocal twist on a Bobby McFerrin classic originally presented as an instrumental.

Fahrenheit 702 brings a sultry, high energy and party vibe to their debut GETTING IN THE GAME, Vol. 1! Named for producer/bassist/group founder Greg Radford’s triumphant return to the music industry after a near-decade hiatus, the colorful Las Vegas centric themes and slick ensemble action make it the perfect soundtrack to a winning streak with a frolicsome night on The Strip. The core members of this Smooth Jazz collective include Radford, power vocalist Diane 'Dedae' Patrise' Spann and saxophonist Keith Marlo are complemented by Grammy & Emmy Award winning Singer/Trumpeter Skip Martin, keyboardist Mike Clark, bassist Walter Jones, guitarists Michael Henegan and James 'JD' Davis, plus Ronnie Foster (organ) and John Wedemeyer (guitar) infuse blues excitement into the delirious swirl of urban jazz, Prince-like funk and Brazilian coolness.

The Bee Gees’ Saturday Night Fever classic has never sounded hipper or funkier than it does in the hands of internationally renowned veteran saxophonist Johnny James Dr J, who unleashes three unique, equally explosive versions on his new HOW DEEP IS YOUR LOVE EP. The first is a feisty Smooth Jazz delight featuring the late Chuck Loeb’s hypnotic, crackling guitar and the high stylin’ production energy of Jeff Lorber. Next is a classic styled R&B jam with Darrell Tookes' silky floating vocals, while the third (“A W Remix”) is a punchy hip-hop/dance floor classic in the making. Dr J adds two originals that further showcase his formidable talents on his brand new collection which is already hovering in top positions on UK and European Music Charts.

After teasing with four irresistible lead singles over the past year and a half, Justin Klunk unleashes the full fury of his relentless saxophone passion on his party ready debut full length album (after two EPs and loads of individual singles). With a title that doubles as a timely reminder, KINDNESS IS MANDATORY, motivates us (and gets our blood pumping) as the young, mega-talent brings to his solo artistry the same funk, rock and soul fire he’s been lighting up the stage with for years alongside Ariana Grande, Lindsey Stirling, Saint Motel, David Foster, Earth Wind & Fire and David Benoit! By the way, Benoit appears twice on this collection. In the midst of the blazing hooks and burning production skills, a lone romantic ballad offers a sweet meditational oasis. A must have for contemporary sax fans!
Unleashing the full force of the saxophone prowess he once brought to stages worldwide with The Rolling Stones, Prince, J Lo, Etta James and others, Eric Knight has empowered Smooth Jazz listeners throughout 2023 with tasteful and inspiring re-imaginings of classic R&B hits by Gnarls Barkley, SWV and Tevin Campbell – all of which are slated to appear on his upcoming debut album COVER 2 COVER, VOL 1. For the Holiday season, Knight and his producer Steven Wolf reach back further for an intimate, contemporary gospel-tinged, soul-jazz twist on Mel Torme’s timeless “The Christmas Song.” Over a seductive groove, Knight brings the passionate magic first through his intimately delivered lyrical soprano melody, then ups the emotion by a soaring harmonic blend of sax and angelic choir vocals all before unleashing his powerful alto solo.

With the release of THE TREE OF LIFE, a multi-faceted collection infused with Smooth Jazz, swinging traditional jazz, groovin’ R&B, new soul and bits of gospel and GoGo Afro Funk, veteran horn master, 804 Jazz founder and CEO Bill McGee celebrates musical greats Ramsey Lewis and Donald Byrd as well as personal milestones. Besides marking over 50 years as a recording artist and two decades in Smooth Jazz, Bill was recently elected President of the Richmond Chapter of the Southern Christian Leadership Conference, the civil rights organization founded by MLK! Beyond stylistic diversity, from sweet ballads and juicy jams to special guest performances from A-listers Freddie Fox, Fred Wesley, Christian de Mesones, James Saxsmo Gates, Najee and more, the project also spotlights McGee’s tender melodic flugelhorn and his remarkable one-man horn sections via the trumpet, flugelhorn, trombone and hybrid “flugelbone.” This musical tree provides shelter for enthusiasts who appreciate depth and joy in their listening experience.

Having toured for years with superstars like Bobby Caldwell, Smokey Robinson, Diane Schurr and Norman Brown, Andrew Neu knows a little something about having fun at the “Afterparty” – the perfect name for his groove-driven, power-packed and brass-fired new single. The versatile saxophonist, flutist and horn arranger is also a master at high-end collaborations, and this celebratory track marks his third super fun yet emotionally hard-hitting venture with keyboardist/producer Greg Manning. By their own admission, the two channel the groovy music of the 60s with a bit of artsy 80s Miles Davis, providing the perfect festive mood for your next cocktail soiree with the poppin’ rhythm section of Mel Brown and Marcus Finnie and wild solos by Neu and trumpeter Mike Stever.

As he’s eased these past few years from well-established pop fusion artist to making a promising impact in Smooth Jazz, saxophonist Nick Stefanacci has recorded his share of exciting cover tunes from the likes of Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson and Diana Ross. This holiday season, the multi-talented musician, songwriter and producer is gracing us with “Christmas Eve,” a glistening original that has “instant classic” potential. Featuring the silky vocals and playful scat of guest artist Rich Aveo, the track begins as a warm, tender love song before the rhythms pop harder and the tune evolves into a high energy showcase for Stefanacci’s trademark horn fire. You can listen to the song long after Christmas Eve. It’s the second lead single from the saxophonist’s Spring 2024 EP release SECRETS.

Though the release of this warmly nostalgic ballad “Christmas That I Know” marks 40 years since his major label debut album, veteran jazz-glazed soul singer Gary Taylor may be best known as a behind the scenes powerhouse. As a vocalist, he’s backed up The Whispers, Vanessa Williams and Nancy Wilson, and as a songwriter, his tunes have been recorded by the likes of Grover Washington, Jr., Anita Baker, Walter Beasley, George Clinton, Ray Parker Jr. and Lalah Hathaway. Achieving his goal to return “back to the warm, happy and loving times of the holiday season,” this silky new single (and its colorful animated video) features lyrical imagery that captures all the sweetness, wonder, joy and enchantment of an unforgettable Christmas!

Officially starting the countdown, #1 Billboard-charting, multi-award winning trio Threestyle spectacularly reminds us, OH! IT’S CHRISTMAS, on their hip, romantic and inspiring, urban jazz flavored EP loaded with all-original Holiday classics in the making. Though propelled by the smoldering energy of founding members, guitarist Robert Fertl, saxophonist Magdalena Chovancova and drummer Gabriela Chovancova, guest vocalist Damon Dae steals the show and creates endless seasonal magic with his engaging, ultra-soulful delivery of some gift-wrapped goodies. Complementing those tracks, Threestyle creates two renditions of a spiritual minded tune – one showcasing Magdalena's soaring horn passion, the other a rousing invitation to Christmas at a gospel church.
Be sure not to miss the ThreeStyle Jazz Radio Show featuring Smooth Jazz favorites as well as tracks from their albums!

Recently retired after 34 years as a captain with Delta Airlines, keyboardist/composer Paul Tuvman’s 4th album THE ROAD I’VE TRAVELED – which could just as easily be called The Skies I’ve Flown - takes a sweetly nostalgic, high spirited and stylistically multi-faceted look back on his fascinating dual life that includes evolving from youthful Sunset Strip rocker to acclaimed contemporary jazzman. Tuvman is held in such high regard by top genre musicians that everyone from Peter White and Michael Lington to Mindi Abair, Eric Marienthal and Rick Braun hopped on board. The engaging journey eases from gentle ballads and dreamy, romantic trips to Japan and France to more muscular sax driven jams, along with the classically tinged song titled “The Journey” featuring famed oboe player Rong-Huey Liu.

Talk about creative visualization! Capping a prolific decade as a recording artist, U.S. Air Force veteran and composer/saxophonist R.L. Walker’s latest album COLORIZED invites listeners to create mental images of the compelling eight-song journey. His hope is that this will help listeners connect with the emotions he conveys as he mood swings from popping mid-tempo funk and crunch-grooving jams to sweetly reflective ballads (including an ultra-sexy Whispers cover). As Walker, who developed his alternately crisp/edgy and silky soul vibes in South Korean clubs and talent shows while stationed overseas, says, “Music gives color to the air of the moment.” With tracks produced by Walker and longtime collaborator Lew Laing, Jr., the sonically exciting set includes tracks featuring special guests vocalist Castella, Gerey Johnson on acoustic guitar and bassist Christian de Mesones.

The long-awaited follow-up to her Billboard charting 2016 track “Guilty,” silky voiced singer/songwriter Vertice Williams’ beautiful new single “Therapy” will surely be the sexiest love song you’ve heard in Smooth Jazz this year – but not in the typical way we think of love songs. Co-written, co-produced and featuring the inimitable Steve Oliver – who also collaborated on Williams’ last album ALL GOOD – the song’s lyrics are romantic, but the real inspiration was the singer’s post Covid reflection that life is fragile and love (giving and receiving) is a complete healing modality, true tenderness and strength. The graceful, subtle arrangement, designed to showcase the pin-drop perfection of her voice, also features the lush piano harmonies and shimmering keyboard soloing of another genre great, Brian Simpson.
Listening Loft : ESSENTIALS

Though pianist/composer Carol Albert has been recording since the early 90s, it’s testament to the fire her singles have caught on at Smooth Jazz Radio since 2016 that two tracks from her 2020 album STRONGER NOW have Spotify streams in the millions – very rare numbers for the genre. Her streak of infectious hits continued with the first two lead singles from her latest wonderwork MAGIC MIRROR, which sweeps us up in spirited whirlwinds of melodic grace via tunes that range from intimate and meditative to exuberant and funky to exotic and Brazilian flavored. While promoting themes of personal soul escape/adventure and self-reflection in this post-pandemic era of new awakenings, Carol showcases her love for dreamy, easy-flowing contemporary jazz that takes her, and us, to many magical places.

Finding his niche as a bassist after early stints on trumpet and tuba, Adrian “Egg” Norton (recording as Bassmanegg) brings an inspiring, decades long resume – including founding and leading the Washington DC jazz ensemble Phaze II and touring as Regina Belle’s music director – to JUST GROOVIN’, his epic, stylistic and rhythmic full album debut. Beyond his tasteful, snappy basslines, Norton plays the Quincy Jones mega-producer role, guiding an array of top-notch instrumentalists and soulful lead vocalists along an R&B/urban jazz landscape dotted with uplifting spiritual insights, complementing originals and offering fresh takes on classics by Heatwave and Marvin Gaye.

Concurrent with the release of various singles and an EP by GROOVAZ, Peter “Brownie” Braunholz’s duo with saxman Vladimir Strecker, the veteran German musician, composer/producer and multi-instrumentalist – also an award-winning photographic artist - keeps the breezy, beachy flow of his coastal California-inspired songs flowing on his crisp, cool and seductive solo EP ENDLESS SUMMER. While varying in tempos, the four tracks capture the infectious melodic and sonic magic of his piano, E-Piano, electric bass and acoustic and electric guitars, while also sharing his virtuosity with atmosphere and sound design. It’s the perfect way to hang on to those last beautiful rays of summer!

Veteran keyboardist/composer/producer Phil Casagrande has come a long way since his first Billboard charting song at age 25, including sessions with P-Funk vocalist Jessica Cleaves and six contemporary jazz albums in the 2010s, followed by a flurry of stylistically eclectic singles and club and chill mixes these past few years. Over the years, his popular instrumentals have charted on SmoothJazz.com and Groove Jazz charts and the Mediabase Smooth Adult Contemporary chart. Casagrande’s first Holiday single since 2019’s “Silver Bells” is a reflective, moody take on Vince Guaraldi’s “Christmastime is Here.” The sparsely arranged track offers a beautiful, intimate showcase of his traditionally-minded piano virtuosity that sticks tightly to the famed melody, tempo and mood of the original before venturing into exciting and adventurous improvisations.

Surely the Chicago bred, longtime Las Vegas based brother duo hears the question all the time: “Which one of you is Everett B Walters?” Turns out, neither, as the band name is a clever blend of their names and playfully defines that fun and funky grooving dual energy of guitarist Michael Everett Brown and bassist Harold Walter Brown III since joining forces as recording artists in the mid-2000s. Once again forging a colorful chemistry with their crew featuring keyboardist Stanley Small (aka Duayne Stanley), saxophonist Audley Reid and drummer Michael white, the Browns pay spirited homage to the rhythmic excitement of their hometown on the new album FUNKIN UNDER THE CHICAGO SKYLINE. Complementing their blend of original bouncy thrillers and silky, laid-back ballads is a crafty twist on a Toto classic featuring Stanley on vocals.

A renowned Bay Area music educator, mentor and 40-year member of the Oakland Unified School Art Education Task Force, Sonny Fairley laid a strong foundation for his emergence as a Smooth Jazz artist in 2019 by opening over the years for Dave Koz, Kirk Whalum, Boney James, Earth, Wind & Fire, Cameo and Parliament, among others. The multi-talented, spiritually driven musician ups his game on CONVERSATION, entering a unique new dimension/paradigm as a “saxaflutist,” joining Gerald Albright on an incendiary, horn harmony filled duet and showcasing his lead vocal skills for the first time. Boldly sharing that his musical ideas represent an open gateway into his heart and soul, Fairley brings to his tasty mix equal amounts of cool breeze, lyrical charm, exotica, tropicality, tender balladry and heavy funk.

Having spent 30 successful years in the car business before his 2020 breakthrough as an R&B/pop influenced Smooth Jazz vocal artist, Gil Johnson finds a perfect way to fuse his past and present lives on his latest single “405” - a whimsically romantic, infectiously grooving sonic adventure produced by Dove and Stellar Award nominee AyRon Lewis and featuring a trademark blazing sax solo by Darren Rahn. Riffing on the reality that the only time Los Angeles has no traffic, is in the middle of the night, Gil sings lovingly about a 2AM top-down ride home with his beloved while listening to his lifelong friend Earl Klugh!

Having started his career busking in Venice Beach, Santa Monica, Culver City and Inglewood, multi-talented, fluid, funked out and dynamically swinging guitarist Eric Gray will no doubt transcend his status as the “Best Kept Secret in L.A.” with the release of his fashionable titled second album VIBES ROYALE. Building on the sonic foundations he laid on his covers-intensive 2022 debut SETTING THE MOOD, Gray focuses solely on his crisp, melodic and percussive strings amidst a multitude of rhythms. He creates a compelling variety of moods, complementing a batch of tasty originals with unique, high-energy takes on Billy Joel and Doobie Brothers classics.

Summer’s over, but don’t tell German-based, funk-jazz duo GROOVAZ, who seem intent on making their free-spirited vibes last forever with intoxicating grooves and a mix of silky soul and sunny, drive-time jams on their debut EP OCEAN DRIVE. GROOVAZ is the brainchild of veteran German-born multi-instrumentalist, sound designer and award-winning visual artist and photographer Peter “Brownie” Braunholz, who built a studio and began focusing on Smooth Jazz in the late 2010s. His partner in the venture, the fiery Kazakhstan-born saxophonist Vladimir Strecker, describes meeting Brownie as if “two kindred souls with the same musical taste had met.” Take the drive and listen for yourself!

With the drop of several singles leading to his excellent debut album YOU’RE NOT ALONE, Charles A, Kelly made an auspicious emergence in Smooth Jazz in 2021 after a gold and platinum career composing, music directing and working with pop, R&B and gospel royalty – including Elton John, Stevie Wonder, Nile Rodgers and CeCe Winans. The multi-talented keyboardist, composer and producer continues his ascent in the genre with the sparklingly melodic, sweet and summery Innervision Records single “SunSeeker.” True to the bright promise of its title, it’s a whimsical burst of flute and funk-filled optimism that also showcases his commanding sense of improvisation.

Unleashing the full force of the saxophone prowess he once brought to stages worldwide with The Rolling Stones, Prince, J Lo, Etta James and others, Eric Knight has empowered Smooth Jazz listeners throughout 2023 with tasteful and inspiring re-imaginings of classic R&B hits by Gnarls Barkley, SWV and Tevin Campbell – all of which are slated to appear on his upcoming debut album COVER 2 COVER, VOL 1. For the Holiday season, Knight and his producer Steven Wolf reach back further for an intimate, contemporary gospel-tinged, soul-jazz twist on Mel Torme’s timeless “The Christmas Song.” Over a seductive groove, Knight brings the passionate magic first through his intimately delivered lyrical soprano melody, then ups the emotion by a soaring harmonic blend of sax and angelic choir vocals all before unleashing his powerful alto solo.

Pianist, composer/producer and filmmaker Belton Mouras, Jr. follows his lighthearted, Latin/bossa flavored charting song “Magic All Around Us” with his new single “Gentle Angel,” a personal, deeply spiritual expression of wonder, grace and passion for life and love. Sharing his lushly melodic and spirited piano magic in a more emotionally-nuanced, heartfelt way that taps into his classical training, Mouras enjoys a charming conversational dance throughout with his longtime saxophonist Otis Mourning, with his high register piano melody gliding over the lower toned, jazzy energy of the horn. The title and timbre of the tune lends itself beautifully to the Holiday season!

Many artists talk about taking their vibe to the next level, but drummer Morris “Pinky” Harris is so ambitious that he calls his ever-evolving R&B/Smooth Jazz collective Nex Lev’l Band. Besides outstanding musicianship and eclectic grooves, the key to their creative elevation is unpredictability – perfectly embodied by their double-sided single “Why You Wanna” and ”DC Groove.” “Why You Wanna” is an easy-flowing, radio-ready jawn showcasing the emotional intensity and fiery horn textures of guest saxophonist Eddie Baccus Jr. “D.C. Groove” is a bonus, high-octane funk jam featuring fanciful synth runs by the late Dawoud Said and a killer groove and solo action by legendary drummer Dennis Chambers.

From portraying a sax playing mermaid in the multi-award winning short film “Ocean Child” to playing Morticia Addams onstage and having her likeness and saxophone inducted into the Women Songwriters Hall of Fame Museum, multi-faceted musician, songwriter and vocalist Evelyn Rubio is always up for fresh ways to showcase her talents. Case in point: She follows her popular 2020 album CROSSING BORDERS with “Because I Want To,” a fun, sexy, uplifting and wildly percussive single that spotlights her sassy soul vocals punchy horn prowess. In singing about the joys of pleasing a lover, she’s providing sheer pleasure for everyone, and in the dynamic, spacial clarity of Dolby Atmos! Evelyn shares, “The Atmos format is growing fast internationally with high end car manufacturers. I want to be ready and I want people to hear my music in the best possible level of fidelity.”

Joining forces from very different and distinctive musical backgrounds, Sabby Rayas and Nicole Moran (recording as Sabby & Nicole) create a sultry and vibrant pop-tinged and dance floor ready debut with their lighthearted new single “You’ve Got the One Thing.” Sabby’s been a dance music powerhouse for nearly 15 years, dropping R&B, dance and crossover radio hits like “Crazy Over You,” “#1 Lover” and “Be My Delight.” Just now emerging as an impactful pop-soul vocalist, Nicole’s musical family includes a jazz musician father who played with Stan Getz, a session singer mother and a brother who plays in a platinum selling rock group.

At first, the phrase “high energy chill” seems a slight contradiction in terms – but it all makes perfect melodic and breezy rhythmic sense as expressed in the crafty, hip, easy funk-minded hands of veteran Norwegian keyboardist, composer and producer Frank Hestess, who is releasing his splashy, eclectic debut EP SIGNING IN under the moniker Franko Spero. The onetime guitarist and bassist refashioned himself as computer-based music creator, leading to many fresh creative possibilities. In only four tracks, he takes us through many moods, from punchy, atmospheric, George Dukesque soul/fusion and hard driving pop/jazz to sweetly seductive romantic balladry for all kinds of weather. Bravo Franko!

STICK IT OUT, the title of James ‘PJ’ Spraggins’ first album in eight years, is a clever double entendre, referring to his powerful, in the pocket virtuosity on the drums and the core of a positive, faith-based message reflecting his determination to overcome personal challenges, with the hope that confidence inspires his listeners. Having achieved a lifelong dream recently by playing behind Peabo Bryson on the 2023 Soul Train Cruise, Spraggins – who has also worked with Eric Essix and Kim Scott – showcases not only his rhythmic prowess but also his gifts as a composer of ultra-melodic ballads and mid-tempo funk adventures. While most of the positive-titled tunes feature lead guitar, keyboards and sax, the drummer includes two exciting drum interludes where he struts his ample stuff unadorned.

Boasting an eclectic resume that includes Elton John, Jackson Browne, The Backstreet Boys and artists on Elekta and Warner Bros Records, Greg Branson has spent decades behind the scenes as a composer, producer, arranger, engineer and keyboardist. Drawing on that expertise and experience, his long-awaited emergence as a solo artist with THE GREG BRANSON PROJECT is a bold, dynamic, genre-transcendent collection including everything from fiery Latin big band to in the pocket, brass-tinged funk and silky ballads. Sharing the composing duties with frequent collaborator Gary Ogan, Branson realizes his grand vision with the help of guest artists like saxophonist Rob Stone and trumpeter Chris Tedesco.

While celebrating the 30th anniversary of his self-described, still active “rough jazz” ensemble Under the Lake’s debut album DIVE IN, high energy, ultra-melodic pianist/keyboardist Jayson Tipp continues to develop his promising Smooth Jazz solo career with “Time To Roll” – the 2nd lead single (following the Darren Rahn produced “Groove Together”) from his soon to be released debut solo debut album TABLE FOR ONE. Produced and co-written by another genre heavyweight, guitarist Adam Hawley, the punchy and adventurous, groove-intensive tune showcases Tipp’s vibrant, elegant funk and sizzling camaraderie with his longtime Under the Lake bandmate, saxophonist Quintin Gerard W.

Though Dennis van Aarssen released two popular non-seasonal recordings after winning The Voice of Holland 2019, the multi-talented singer, songwriter and leader of the DvA Bigband had his sights set on creating a holiday album even before he had a career in music. Living up to his bold statement that “Christmas is something that just belongs to me,” he was inspired to record his 2022 collection CHRISTMAS WHEN YOU’RE HERE by Jamie Cullum. Animated by a vibrant 20+ piece big band, these songs, penned with American songwriters Jeff Franzel and Maria Christensen, feel as powerfully evergreen as the classics. Van Aarssen adds to the bliss with the album’s new DELUXE EDITION, featuring two new nostalgic, romantic and poppin’ originals plus a spirited swing arrangement of a Paul McCartney chestnut.