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

Sam Taylor – Let Go (Cellar Live)

Saxophonist Sam Taylor has put together a solid band for his latest album on Cellar Live called Let Go. Surrounded by Terrell Stafford’s trumpet, Jeb Patton’s piano, Neal Miner’s bass and Willie Jones III on the drums, it would be nearly impossible not to swing, and sure enough, as soon as I hit play on the CD player, I was snapping fingers and tapping toes to a great rendition of Barry Harris’ “Luminescence.” Things get pretty during “Angel Face,” and Taylor gets the spotlight all to himself on “Prisoner of Love.” This is one of those discs with a lot to love and a lot to share with you on DCB Jazz.

Hey Rim Jeon – Groovitude (Bassline Live)

Korean pianist Hey Rim Jeon has recently released her fourth album, Groovitude, featuring two different and interesting trios. With either John Lockwood or Greg Holt holding down the bass duties and Terri Lyne Carrington or Yoron Israel playing the drums, Jeon plays beautifully throughout. What strikes me most about the arrangements on Groovitude is the imagination displayed throughout on some rather well-worn chestnuts. “Fly Me to the Moon,” “Nature Boy” and “Summertime” are all given treatments that feel fresh and unique.

Brian Baggett Trio – Groovin’ and Swingin’ at Green Lady Lounge (Jazz Daddy Records)

There have been a small number of albums recorded live at Kansas City’s Green Lady Lounge, and the latest is Brian Baggett’s Groovin’ and Swingin’ at Green Lady Lounge. Joined by locals Taylor Babb on bass and Ben Trevort on drums, Baggett moves through a bunch of moods and grooves on the 12 songs recorded here. The influence of legendary guitarist Bill Frisell is evident in the compositions, the playing style and the tone of the album. Baggett and Co. sound fantastic on “Pretty Toasted,” “Rooftop Blues,” and “That’s What,” and I’m looking forward to playing this one for you soon!

Next week, I’ve got a list of holiday music old and new for your listening (and reading) pleasure, and I’m looking forward to sharing it with you!