Pianist Randy Ingram began with the historical figures of jazz music and connected them with contemporary styles and practices. On his new recording Sky/Lift, Ingram assembled a collection of seven original compositions and a piece written by one of his heroes, pianist Bill Evans. With a nod to Evans’s collaboration with guitarist Jim Hall, Ingram enlisted the fabulous guitarist Mike Moreno to be a melodic/harmonic foil to his piano on half of the recording’s tracks.


Rising Son makes for the perfect title for the Blue Note debut from Takuya Kuroda, an ascendant trumpeter and composer who is perhaps best known for his inspired presence in vocalist José James’ band over the past several years. In fact, Rising Son finds Kuroda stepping forth to helm James’ remarkable band – featuring keyboardist Kris Bowers, electric bassist Solomon Dorsey, drummer Nate Smith, and trombonist Corey King – with James in the producer’s chair instead of behind the microphone (excepting a hypnotic version of the Roy Ayers classic “Everybody Loves The Sunshine” to which James lends vocals).


SHERYL BAILEY / A Meeting of Minds: This guitar led, organ trio nails it so hard you won't believe the effortless enjoyment flowing from it your first time through. Honed by this crew playing these tunes live over the last year, the swing, the flow and the vibe all conspire to knock you out. A sweet killer of a date where everyone is so in the pocket that it's almost scary, you can't help but come away from this a full blooded Bailey fan. Top shelf all the way.