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

Renee Rosnes – Crossing Paths (Smoke Sessions)

Plugged in modern Jazz fans already know that Renee Rosnes is a powerhouse of a piano player, composer, arranger and bandleader. On Crossing Paths, she also proves to be quite the player of traditional Samba and Bossa Nova as well. Featuring a core band with Chico Pinheiro on guitar, John Patitucci on bass, Adam Cruz on drums and Rogerio Boccato on percussion, Rosnes also invited a few excellent guest artists to join in on the action as well, including flautist Shelly Brown, trombonist Steve Davis and saxophonist Chris Potter. Their interactions with Rosnes, to these ears, anyway, truly make this album. Upping the ante even further is the inclusion of legendary Brazilian singers Edu Lobo and Joyce Moreno on a few songs as well. On Casa Forte, Edu Lobo’s vocals meet an incredible arrangement and an engaging solo from Chris Potter on the soprano saxophone that is the highlight of the album. For me. Trust me, you’ll probably find your own highlights. There’s a lot to choose from.

Scott Hamilton – Looking Back (Stunt Records)

Scott Hamilton is back with his fourth album for the Danish label Stunt Records, and his fourth with this same locally sourced rhythm section of Jan Lundgren at the piano bench, Hans Backenroth playing the bass and Kritian Leth behind the drums. The album’s called Looking Back, and the setlist (and the liner notes) show that that’s exactly what Hamilton’s got on his mind. “Hey There” is dedicated to Rosemary Clooney, who kept Scott employed for twenty years. The deliciously funky take on “The Maids of Cadiz” is dedicated to Jimmy Rowles, and “Rockin’ Chair” is dedicated to Roy Eldridge, who was instrumental in getting Hamilton to New York back in the 1970’s. Much like the vast majority of Scott Hamilton’s catalog, Looking Back is flawless in its delivery and charming in its approach. If you appreciate what Hamilton does, you’re going to love what he did on Looking Back.

Steve Johns – Mythology (Steeplechase)

Drummer Steve Johns certainly decided to start 2025 off with a bang. His latest album, Mythology, is a solid effort indeed. Joined by a stellar cast with Monte Croft on the vibes, John Hart on guitar, Joris Teepe on bass and Chicago ex-pat Greg Murphy at the piano bench, this is a band with some power and dexterity. The festivities start off nicely with “Coming of Age,” which is a pleasant swinger with a hummable melody. “Sapphire” is a lovely Jazz waltz. “This is the Thing” and “Our Time” is where this album really comes alive, though. In both cases, strong melodies meet fiery, tasty playing and solos. Greg Murphy’s “Bluesday the 13th” manages to take it up even another notch from there, and when we get to a ballad with “In My Humble Opinion,” the change in scenery makes for a wonderful few minutes. Mythology tells no tall tales. This album is the truth.