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

Steve Million – What I Meant To Say (Origin)

Chicago based pianist Steve Million got together with some old friends in late 2019 to record some music, and the result is his release for Origin records, What I Meant to Say. Joined by guitarist Steve Cardenas, bassist John Sims and drummer Ron Vincent, the music on What I Meant To Say hearkens back to music that three of these four were making when they lived in Kansas City in the late 70’s. Some of these songs (all of them are from Million’s pen) might be over 40 years old, but you’d never know it in these performances. I’m looking forward to playing this one for you soon!

Steve Million and Sarah Marie Young – Jazz Words (self-produced)

And yes, this is a second CD from Steve Million, released at roughly the same time! Jazz Words features Million’s musical and lyrical works, as realized by a pretty awesome band – Sarah Marie Young, vocals, Jim Gailloreto on woodwinds, John Sims on bass, Juan Pastor on drums, and Million playing the piano. Together, they run through 8 of Million’s songs, which are all really nice. “Missing Page” is my favorite, and over the course of the next few weeks, you’ll probably hear a favorite of your own, too. Make sure to check this one out!

Joe Marcinek Band – JMB 4 (self-produced)

Northwest Indiana guitarist Joe Marcinek has been making some major waves in the jam band world for the past couple of years, but then he goes and makes some pretty fantastic Jazz records when he gets into the studio. His previous effort, JMB 3 was a straight up, greasy and gritty organ trio record, and now, on JMB 4, the band is bigger, there are more guest artists, and the music is a little more varied. Dance Factory reminds me of prime 70’s Chuck Mangione with a more danceable groove. AGM is dark, a little brooding and still manages to be nice and funky. If you’re a fan of Soulive, the New Mastersounds or Medeski, Martin and Wood, you’ll enjoy this latest one from Joe, too!