New Releases Spotlight: Week of June 15, 2015

This week in The Music Lounge, music director Paul Abella takes a look at three new releases:

Former Chicago bassist Lorin Cohen has a new disc out from Origin Records called Home.  First off, props to Cohen for some really outstanding arranging on this album.  Cohen has created really nice “sonic palates” for his musicians to work with.  And Cohen didn’t take the easy way out, instrumentally speaking, either.  Throughout Home, you’ll hear steel pans, harmonica and vibes, along with the usual Jazz rhythm section of piano, bass and drums. Even with the more lilting sounds you would usually expect from the harmonica (especially in jazz) and steel pans, Cohen and his band have crafted some muscular music.  The end result is just fascinating.  I hope you come to like this one as much as I do.

Pianist Robert Glasper has a new album out called Covered.  Much like Cannonball Adderley did on Mercy, Mercy, Mercy, Glasper got a live audience together at Capitol’s studio, and treated it like a live album.  In the wake of the hugely popular Black Radio albums that Glasper put out over the past few years, it’s interesting what that experience has done for his piano playing, including tightening up his delivery – he’s now being a more concise, saying more with less and doing it in less time.  Some of the tracks are absolutely breathtaking.  His takes on Radiohead’s "Reckoner" or Joni Mitchell’s "Barangrill" are both excellent, and in both cases I think you’ll be bummed when they’re over. 

Finally, The Bad Plus and Joshua Redman have a new disc out called The Bad Plus Joshua Redman. Considering how volatile The Bad Plus can be, and considering how explosive Joshua Redman was on his last release (Trios Live), it’s both refreshing and interesting that this album is so laid back.  Keeping in mind both of these groups’ love of modern covers, it’s a bit shocking that The Bad Plus Joshua Redman contains all-original material. So, on many levels, this disc is meant to surprise you.  We’re hoping there’s a volume 2 on the way.

Next week in The Music Lounge, Paul will highlight new releases from David Berkman, Halie Loren and Steve Davis.  ‘Til next time… keep your ears open!