What's New on WDCB... with Paul Abella

Nightcrawlers – Do You Know a Good Thing? (Cellar Live)

One of Cory Weeds’ many ensembles, the Nightcrawlers is all about good, greasy sounds. Sporting renditions of songs originally by Eddie Harris, Donald Byrd and Shirley Scott (among others), the groove is the point here, and this group doesn’t disappoint. “1974 Blues,” “Soulful Kiddy,” and “Movin’ Out” all sound fantastic and fun. I’m pretty certain all of WDCB’s DJs are going to dive into this one.

Antonio Adolfo – Jobim Forever (AAM)

Over the course of pianist Antonio Adolfo’s career, he’s done tribute albums in the past, looking at the work of Milton Nascimento and Wayne Shorter. On his latest, he pays tribute to the legendary Antonio Carlos Jobim with the fittingly titled Jobim Forever. Recorded in Brazil by an all Brazilian ensemble, these songs move and breathe with a different vibe than when American groups play them. They’re more relaxed and more elegant. It helps that Adolfo is a fantastic pianist and arranger, and of course, the songs are top notch. “Favela,” “A Felicidade” and “Agua de Beber” are highlights, but everything here is fantastic.

Sam Pilnick’s Nonet Project – The Adler Suite (Next Level/Outside In)

Chicago saxophonist Sam Pilnick recently released an album with his nonet called The Adler Suite. An album of all original material, Pilnick is an interesting composer and arranger, along with being a formidable player. This music sometimes swings, sometimes rocks, and always grooves. Pilnick makes great use of the nonet format, at times making the ensemble sound like a full-on big band. All in all, this is a fascinating listen that’s well worth your time.