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Collectors Item - Music, Art and Life: Covers
Saxophonist Gary Bartz Blows Magic Upon R&B/Soul Classics on "Damage Control"

By JR on 4:38 PM

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There are certain musicians who have a knack for making you feel good in their own unique way. The music of Gary Bartz is like receiving a warm embrace from your elder relative, one which leaves you feeling invigorated and enriched with life. From the man who's saxophone tone left an indelible imprint on A Tribe Called Quest's "Butter" and more classics. Gary Bartz bets on himself with Damage Control, released September 26, 2025 via OYO Records. Here's what the label has to say about this outstanding project:

"The NEA Jazz Master releases his first studio album in 12 years, produced by Om’mas Keith and featuring a boundary-blurring mix of soul, pop, and Black American music tradition.

In 2023, Gary Bartz made a bet. At 83 years old, the iconic saxophonist cashed out his 401k, went on sabbatical from teaching at Oberlin Conservatory, and made a record - not for a label, but for himself. The result is Damage Control, his first studio album in a dozen years, and one of the most heartfelt projects of his career, released September 26, 2025 via his own OYO Records."

Lance Ferguson Reminds Us Of Heaven on "Rare Groove Spectrum, Vol. 3"

By JR on 1:04 PM

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"Rare Groove Spectrum, Vol. 3" is heaven in musical form to those who receive solace in obscure rhythms. The fine selection of reworks of classics by Lance Ferguson demonstrates his command of the groove and dedication to 70's Jazz-Funk tradition. Press play and you'll feel like you're floating on a cloud driven by the groovy influence of labels such as Blue Note, CTI and Flying Dutchman. My favorite: the Latin rework of Eddie Harris's "Losalamitoslatinfunklovesong".

Jocelyn Brown Remembers "Somebody Else's Guy", Melle Mel & Cuban Jazz Combo Pay Tribute

By JR on 4:26 PM

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Enjoy the reflections of the woman who's known to make you feel so real as Jocelyn Brown reflects on her classic. This is the making of "Somebody Else's Guy" straight from the lead singer, a voice who continues to captivate the souls of listeners worldwide. Learn about a remarkable song that flips the tables on heartache and turns it into a celebration as Jocelyn takes a moment to reminisce. Her spirit is that of a mother who provides a warm embrace plus knowledge and understanding of life. As a result, we receive the messages behind the music of love, dedication, truth and humility.

Below, The Cuban Jazz Combo and Melle Mel put an ear-opening spin on "Somebody Else's Guy". One will make you feel like doing the salsa on a warm night in Havana, the other feels like a boogie down in The Bronx back in '84.

Guitarists Blair Bryant, Byron Miller & Julian Vaughn Make Music That's Smooth As Silk And Suede

By JR on 10:11 PM

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For music that exudes an aura of soulful sophistication, Blair Bryant, Byron Miller & Julian Vaughn deliver as supreme songwriters. Enter an atmosphere of elegance as each guitarist offer instrumentals that feel like stepping out in your best dressed for a night on the town. The silky suede feel of this grown folk movement is enough to make you feel as if you slipped into something more comfortable. These performances transform the guitar strings into a form of communication, one that speaks to the heart's desire and urge to experience the best things in life.
 
 

Bob Marley's "I Shot The Sheriff" Goes Jazz With Mike Clark, Patrice Rushen & Other Greats

By JR on 1:43 PM

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This combination of talent is like a shot to the dome as renowned drummer Mike Clark leads an all-star cast of musicians on his 2025 album. "I Shot The Sheriff" becomes something like a dream as the reggae groove of Bob Marley expands into a lively Fusion affair. Mike Clark's ensemble of musicians has what it takes to arrest your soul as they enforce the law of Jazz upon a classic tune. 

Featuring Mike Clark, Eddie Henderson, Patrice Rushen, Henry "the Skipper" Franklin and Craig Handy. From Mike Clark's album "Itai Doshin".

The Music Of Kool & The Gang Becomes Kool Reggae With The Telstars & Mato

By JR on 1:44 PM

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This fusion of musical genres offers a moment to appreciate just how kool the early music of Kool & The Gang is. Here the unmistakable horn section and mellow groove Kool & The Gang's breakthrough 70's debut takes a Caribbean twist. Take a trip to Barbados with The Telstars who capture the carefree vibe of "Kool Jazz" on their Reggae revisit of the song. Mato gives a new meaning to the thought of summer madness with a cover version which evokes feelings of sunshine and escapism on a remote island.

 

Outkast's "Stankonia" Arrives on 3xLP Deluxe Vinyl, Robyn Adele Anderson Pays Homage

By JR on 8:41 AM

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Revisit the unorthodox and funky sound of Outkast as they celebrate 25th years of the most stank album in Hip Hop. The limited edition deluxe 3-LP reissue of "Stankonia" hits stores and streaming on October 31st. It's a celebration of 'Kast that arrives just in time for their induction to the Rock & Roll Hall of fame. Big Boi and Andre's place in music history is well deserved and should be celebrated "for eva eva, EVA EVA!" As songwriters who's music remains so fresh and so clean in the minds of many, Outkast have left their own unique imprint upon Pop culture. This album is bound to make you do the stank face for how boundless this duo is of incorporating new and interesting sounds into Hip Hop.

Inside this deluxe set you'll discover an additional disc of bonus tracks, remixes, and instrumentals. The 3xLP is pressed on purple marbled vinyl and features alternate cover art by André 3000. 


Robyn Adele Anderson of Post-Modern Jukebox pays homage with the delightful Jazz swing of her take on "So Fresh, So Clean".

 

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