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

Eric Hochberg & Steve Million – Passion Flower (self-produced)

Bassist Eric Hochberg and pianist Steve Million have been playing together for years, most notably as part of their long-running gig at Catch 35. So, it would only make sense to record together. Passion Flower is the fruit of that labor. And it’s a gorgeous mix of standards (“For All We Know,” “Alone Together”), Jazz classics (“Double Rainbow,” Passion Flower,” “Con Alma”) and a handful of original songs from Million’s pen, and one from Hochberg (“Taliaville,” a highlight of the album). Passion Flower is gorgeously played throughout, I think you’ll like what you hear! And don’t miss the WDCB-Sponsored Album Release Concert for “Passion Flower” on Thurs, May 12 at the beautiful Epiphany Center for the Arts in Chicago!

Ron Jackson – Standards and My Songs (Roni Music)

Guitarist Ron Jackson has some pretty eclectic tastes, that run the gamut from The Looking Glass (“Brandy”), to Charlie Parker (“Moose the Mooche”), to Quincy Jones in full-on R&B production mode (“The Secret Garden”), to a handful of standards, too. And we haven’t even gotten to Jackson’s tasty originals yet, either. We have a supremely talented guitarist here who is always swinging, grooving and having an infectious good time. On Standards and My Songs, Jackson explores those facets of his musical personality, showing off chops, creativity and musicality. The list of influences here is pretty immense, with nods to Pat Metheny and others.

Alex Norris – Fleet from the Heat (Steeplechase)

Trumpeter Alex Norris has put together a fantastic band for his latest album, Fleet From the Heat. Norris is a top-notch talent that deserves more notoriety for the knockout job he does. On this latest album, he wrote all of the material, and it’s all impressive. From the set opening title track to the boogaloo “Dude, Where’s My Deli?” to the gorgeous “Ballad for 2020,” Norris keeps this listener wanting more.