RAY BARRETTO — Eye of the Beholder (1977-2004) RM | Fusion Best Collection 1000 Series | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Many pure salsa and Latin jazz fans have a difficult time with Ray Barretto's Atlantic Records period in the late 1970s because he was making a deliberate run at the crossover jazz/dance music charts. Who better to strive for such a thing? Barretto established his bona fides in jazz two decades earlier -- and returned to them time and again until the end of his life. He was also one of the prime innovators in New York's salsa explosion, and even played on pop records as a sideman. His credits are book-length. This set from 1977 has dated well. A very large cast date, it features Stix Hooper, Joe Sample, and Wilton Felder of the Crusaders, as well as a host of West Coast session players from the pop, jazz, and Latin worlds: saxophonist Pete Christlieb, trumpeter Louis "Perico" Ortiz, trombonist Garnett Brown, drummers Terry Bozzio and Angel "Cachete" Maldonado, guitarist Ray Gomez, and bassist Jeff Berlin are just a few of the players who appear. The vibe here is more jazz-funk than fusion or salsa. It features loads of keyboards to balance the percussion load, making it more accessible to non-Latin fans, though the grooves balance the smooth with the steamy. The best tracks are "Here We Go Again," Leti," and "Tumbao Africano," while "Señor Funk" and "Expresso" are fine songs as well.    
-> This comment is posted on Allmusic by Thom Jurek, follower of our blog 'O Púbis da Rosa' <- 
Tracklist :
1    Here We Go Again 4:59
Baritone Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone – Bill Green
Bass – Wilton Felder
Guitar – Barry Finnerty
Keyboards – Joe Sample
Tenor Saxophone – Pete Christalieb
Trombone – Garnett Brown
Written-By – J. Sample
2    Señor Funk 4:44
Baritone Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone – Roger Rosenberg
Bass – Jeff Berlin
Drums – Steve Ferrone, Terry Bozzio
Guitar – Marcus Fiorillo
Keyboards – Gil Goldstein, Joe Sample
Tenor Saxophone – Todd Anderson
Trombone – Reinaldo Jorge
Written-By – M. Fiorillo
3    Eye Of The Beholder 4:25
Baritone Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone – Roger Rosenberg
Bass – Jeff Berlin
Drums – Steve Ferrone
Guitar – Marcus Fiorillo
Keyboards – Gil Goldstein
Tenor Saxophone – Todd Anderson
Trombone – Reinaldo Jorge
Written-By – G. Goldstein
4    Salsa-Con-Fusion 6:10
Baritone Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone – Bill Green
Bass – Wilton Felder
Drums – Terry Bozzio
Guitar – Barry Finnerty
Keyboards – Joe Sample
Tenor Saxophone – Pete Christalieb
Trombone – Garnett Brown
Trumpet – Gene Goe
Written-By – B. Finnerty
5    Numero Uno 4:47
Baritone Saxophone – Bill Green
Drums – Steve Ferrone
Keyboards – Joe Sample
Tenor Saxophone – Pete Christalieb
Trombone – Garnett Brown
Written-By – W. Felder
6    Expresso 4:05
Baritone Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone – Roger Rosenberg
Bass – Jeff Berlin
Drums – Steve Ferrone
Guitar – Marcus Fiorillo
Keyboards – Gil Goldstein
Tenor Saxophone – Todd Anderson
Trombone – Reinaldo Jorge
Written-By – G. Goldstein
7    Leti 6:59
Baritone Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone – Roger Rosenberg
Bass – Jeff Berlin
Drums – Steve Ferrone
Guitar – Marcus Fiorillo
Keyboards – Gil Goldstein, Joe Sample
Percussion – Rafael Cruz
Tenor Saxophone – Todd Anderson
Trombone – Reinaldo Jorge
Written-By – G. Edgehill
8    Tumbao Africano 4:28
Baritone Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone – Roger Rosenberg
Bass – Jeff Berlin
Bata – Angel Maldonado, Ray Romero
Drums – Steve Ferrone
Keyboards – Eddy Martinez
Lead Guitar – Ray Gomez
Percussion – Rafael Cruz
Synthesizer – Clifford Carter
Tenor Saxophone – Todd Anderson
Timbales – Jimmy Delgado
Trombone – Reinaldo Jorge
Trumpet – Luis "Perico" Ortiz
Written-By – R. Barretto

BETTY BENNETT — Nobody Else But Me (1955-1991) MONO | Ladies Sing Jazz Series | FLAC (tracks), lossless

Nobody Else But Me illuminates the dark corners of romance with rare depth and maturity -- Betty Bennett's sultry, knowing vocals further establish the palpable feeling that this is a record for adults. Shorty Rogers and André Previn share arranger duties, and both operate in a framework emphasizing nuance and restraint, enabling Bennett to articulate her tales of love and loss without embellishment or redundancy. Equal parts stylist and storyteller, she fully inhabits relatively little-known songs like "This Is the Moment" and "Treat Me Rough." Jason Ankeny
Tracklist :
1    Nobody Else But Me 3:38
Oscar Hammerstein II / Jerome Kern
2    You're Driving Me Crazy 2:54
Walter Donaldson
3    My Man's Gone Now 3:27
George Gershwin / Ira Gershwin / DuBose Heyward
4    Island In The West Indies 2:58
Vernon Duke / Ira Gershwin
5    The Next Time I Care 3:14
Bronislaw Kaper / John Latouche
6    Tomorrow Mountain 3:29
Duke Ellington / John Latouche
7    Treat Me Rough 2:49
George Gershwin / Ira Gershwin
8    Mountain Greenery 2:33
Lorenz Hart / Richard Rodgers
9    This Is The Moment 3:20
Frederick Hollander / Leo Robin
10    You Took Advantage Of Me 2:50
Lorenz Hart / Richard Rodgers
11    Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
Martin / Blane
12    Sidewalks Of Cuba 2:31
Irving Mills / Ben Oakland / Mitchell Parish
Credits :
Alto Saxophone – Harry Klee
Bass – Ralph Pena
Bass, Arranged By – Jimmy Giuffre
Drums – Irv Cottler
Guitar – Barney Kessel
Piano, Arranged By – André Previn
Tenor Saxophone – Bob Cooper
Trombone – Frank Rosolino
Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Arranged By – Shorty Rogers
Vocals – Betty Bennett

JEAN-LUC PONTY — Le Voyage : The Jean-Luc Ponty Anthology (1996) 2CD | Two Version | FLAC (image+.tracks+.cue), lossless

Ponty has worked with Frank Zappa and John McLaughlin, has provided brilliant violin work as a session player, and has had a terrific run as a bandleader. This two-disc set dips into Ponty's Atlantic Records releases, tracing the development of Ponty's particular brand of jazz fusion and providing a very nice look at his career as a bandleader. A few of the cuts seem a bit watery and thin, but this has more to do with the original recording and mixing than the performances or mastering -- Rhino's mastering department has provided the usual quality of production here. Jean-Luc Ponty is a notable performer in the jazz arena, one who has a clear vision and strong ideals when it comes to his music -- he likes to test his boundaries and explore new possibilities. A notable collection. Steven McDonald
Tracklist 1 :
1. "Question with No Answer" – 3:29   
2. "Bowing-Bowing" – 4:53   
3. "Echoes of the Future" – 3:11   
4. "Aurora, Pt. 2" – 6:15   
5. "Waking Dream" – 2:26   
6. "Renaissance" – 5:48   
7. "New Country" – 3:09   
8. "Enigmatic Ocean, Pt. 2" – 3:37   
9. "Enigmatic Ocean, Pt. 3" – 3:43   
10. "Mirage" – 4:54   
11. "Egocentric Molecules" – 5:49   
12. "Cosmic Messenger" – 4:41   
13. "Ethereal Mood" – 4:04   
14. "I Only Feel Good with You" – 3:17   
15. "No Strings Attached" (live) – 6:02 
Tracklist 2 :
1. "Stay with Me" – 5:36   
2. "A Taste for Passion" – 5:25   
3. "Once a Blue Planet" – 4:05   
4. "Forms of Life" – 4:49   
5. "Rhythms of Hope" – 4:03   
6. "Mystical Adventures, Pt. 4" – 0:47   
7. "Mystical Adventures, Pt. 5" – 5:06   
8. "Jig" – 3:58   
9. "Final Truth, Pt. 1" – 4:55   
10. "Computer Incantations for World Peace" – 5:41   
11. "Individual Choice" – 4:57   
12. "Nostalgia" – 5:03   
13. "Eulogy to Oscar Romero" – 2:34   
14. "Infinite Pursuit" – 5:59   
15. "In the Kingdom of Peace" – 4:04   
16. "Caracas" – 3:51   
17. "Forever Together" – 5:46
All songs by Jean-Luc Ponty.
Personnel :
Jean-Luc Ponty - Autoharp, Violin, Electric Piano, Organ, Synthesizer, Bass Synthesizer, Keyboard Bass, Electronic Percussion
Joaquin Lievano, Peter Maunu - Guitar, Guitar Synthesizer
Daryl Stuermer, Dan Sawyer, Martin Atangana, Allan Holdsworth, Scott Henderson , Jamie Glaser - Guitar
Allan Zavod - Piano, Clavinet, Organ, Keyboards, Synthesizer
Patrice Rushen - Piano, Clavinet, Organ, Synthesizer
Chris Rhyne - Piano, Keyboards, Synthesizer, Bass Synthesizer
Wally Minko - Piano, Keyboards
Mokhtar Samba - Drums, Cowbells, Timbales
Norman Fearrington, Ndugu, Ray Griffin - Drums, Percussion
Mark Craney - Drums
Abdou M'Boup - Cowbells, Shaker
Paulinho Da Costa - Percussion

AHMAD JAMAL — Pittsburgh (1989) Two Version | FLAC (image+.tracks+.cue), lossless

On Pittsburgh, an ambitious tribute to his late mother and his hometown, Ahmad Jamal enlists the help of Chicago-based arranger Richard Evans -- a more familiar presence in soul-jazz's '60s heyday than in 1989, alas -- to decorate five of his compositions and Jimmy Heath's "Mellowdrama," while soloing alone on two others. While Jamal can summon forth all of the bravura resources of his piano technique on pieces like "Foolish Ways" and "Divertimento," he often chooses economy instead, relying on the trademark ostinatos of his rhythm section (James Cammack on bass; David Bowler on drums) for momentum. Evans' orchestrations, always elegant and lean, fit like gloves onto Jamal's compositions, enhancing rather than intruding, often following the contours of the melodic lines. This CD has captured both the character and the shaping hand of Jamal and the distinct sound of Evans, and they are a perfect match in this at-times-exquisite piece of work. Richard S. Ginell
Tracklist :
1. Pittsburgh 7:02
 Ahmad Jamal
2. Bellows 8:50
 Ahmad Jamal
3. Mellowdrama 6:38
 Jimmy Heath
4. Foolish Ways 3:35
 Ahmad Jamal
5. Divertimento 5:17
 Ahmad Jamal
6. Cycles 8:08
 Ahmad Jamal
7. Fly Away 7:25
 Ahmad Jamal
8. Apple Avenue 5:33
 Ahmad Jamal
Credits :
Ahmad Jamal - Piano
James Cammack - Bass
David Bowler - Drums

CHARLES MINGUS — Blues & Roots (1959) Two Version (2002, RM | Atlantic Masters Series) + (2007, RM | Atlantic 60th Series) APE (image+.cue), lossless & FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

In response to critical carping that his ambitious, evocative music somehow didn't swing enough, Charles Mingus returned to the earthiest and earliest sources of black musical expression, namely the blues, gospel, and old-time New Orleans jazz. The resulting LP, Blues and Roots, isn't quite as wildly eclectic as usual, but it ranks as arguably Mingus' most joyously swinging outing. Working with simple forms, Mingus boosts the complexity of the music by assembling a nine-piece outfit and arranging multiple lines to be played simultaneously -- somewhat akin to the Dixieland ensembles of old, but with an acutely modern flavor. Anyone who had heard "Haitian Fight Song" shouldn't have been surprised that such an album was well within Mingus' range, but jazz's self-appointed guardians have long greeted innovation with reactionary distaste. After Blues and Roots, there could be no question of Mingus' firm grounding in the basics, nor of his deeply felt affinity with them. Whether the music is explicitly gospel-based -- like the groundbreaking classic "Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting" -- or not, the whole album is performed with a churchy fervor that rips through both the exuberant swingers and the aching, mournful slow blues. Still, it's the blues that most prominently inform the feeling of the album, aside from the aforementioned "Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting" and the Jelly Roll Morton tribute "My Jelly Roll Soul." The recording session was reportedly very disorganized, but perhaps that actually helped give the performances the proper feel, since they wound up so loose and free-swinging. With a lineup including John Handy and Jackie McLean on alto, Booker Ervin on tenor, frequent anchor Pepper Adams on baritone, and Jimmy Knepper and Willie Dennis on trombones, among others, Blues and Roots isn't hurting for fiery soloists, and they help make the album perhaps the most soulful in Mingus' discography. Steve Huey
Tracklist  :
1. Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting 5:39
 Charles Mingus
2. Cryin' Blues 4:58
 Charles Mingus
3. Moanin 8:01
 Charles Mingus
4. Tensions 6:27
 Charles Mingus
5. My Jelly Roll Soul 6:47
 Charles Mingus
6. E's Flat Ah's Flat Too 6:37
 Charles Mingus
– BONUS TRACKS –
7. Wednesday Night Prayer Meeting (Alternate Take)    6:54
8. Tensions (Alternate Take)    5:14
9. My Jelly Roll Soul (Alternate Take)    11:20
10. E's Flat Ah's Flat Too (Alternate Take)    6:47
Credits :
Charles Mingus – Bass
John Handy, Jackie McLean – Sax Alto
Booker Ervin – Sax Tenor
Pepper Adams – Sax Baritone
Jimmy Knepper, Willie Dennis – Trombone
Dannie Richmond – Drums
Horace Parlan (tracks: 1 to 5, 7 to 9), Mal Waldron (tracks: 6, 10) - Piano

CORNELL DUPREE — Teasin' (1974-2014) RM | Fusion Best Collection 1000 Series | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Though he had been a key session player for Atlantic since the late 1960s, guitarist Cornell Dupree was finally given the opportunity to record his own date for the label in 1974. Teasin' was co-produced by Mark Meyerson and Michael Cuscuna. Dupree's band for the date was made up of ace session players including drummer Bernard "Pretty" Purdie, bassist Chuck Rainey, percussionist Ralph MacDonald, his fellow Stuff co-founder Richard Tee on keyboards, and saxophonist David "Fathead" Newman. Other horn players on various tracks include Joe Farrell, Ernie Royal, Jon Faddis, Joe Newman, Ernie Royal, Seldon Powell, and Garnett Brown. Given Dupree's pedigree, there's an unmistakable Southern Texas vibe on the set, although it was recorded in New York. It's most notable in the appropriately named "Blue Nocturne," the gospel-flavored "What Would I Do Without You," the rocking "Feel All Right," and the T-Bone Walker-influenced "Okie Dokie Stomp" (Walker was one of Dupree's biggest influences). But the guitar player's jazz-funk side gets plenty of play, too, evidenced the grooving title cut, "How Long Will It Last," and even the Caribbean-tinged "Jamaican Lady." The arrangements on these latter tunes recall the CTI sound quite a bit but are, as a whole, punchier and somewhat more dynamic. This is a feel-good date to be sure, but it features stellar musicianship, good charts, and excellent soloing from Dupree and Newman
-> This comment is posted on Allmusic by Thom Jurek, follower of our blog 'O Púbis da Rosa' <-
Tracklist
1    Teasin' 3:54
Written-By – Curtis Ousley, Delaney Bramlett
2    Blue Nocturne 5:15
Written-By – Curtis Ousley
3    Jamaican Lady 3:52
Written-By – Chuck Rainey, Cornell Dupree
4    Feel All Right 3:18
Piano – Paul Griffin
Written-By – Curtis Ousley
5    How Long Will It Last 3:21
Written-By – Eric Gayle
6    What Would I Do Without You? 5:47
Piano – George Stubbs
Written-By – Ray Charles
7    Okie Dokie Stomp 2:47
Written-By – Plummer Davis
8    Plain Ol' Blues 8:12
Written-By – Cornell Dupree
Credits
Arranged By [Horns] – Chuck Rainey (tracks: 1 to 3), Richard Tee (tracks: 4 to 8)
Baritone Saxophone – Seldon Powell (tracks: 4 to 8), Trevor Koehler (tracks: 1 to 3)
Bass – Chuck Rainey
Drums – Bernard Purdie
Guitar, Sitar – Cornell Dupree
Keyboards – Richard Tee (tracks: 1 to 3, 5, 7, 8)
Percussion – Ralph MacDonald
Saxophone [All Solos] – David Newman
Tenor Saxophone – David Newman (tracks: 1 to 3), Joe Farrell (tracks: 4 to 8), Seldon Powell (tracks: 1 to 3)
Trombone – Garnett Brown
Trumpet – Ernie Royal (tracks: 4 to 8), Joe Newman, Jon Faddis (tracks: 1 to 3)

JEAN-LUC PONTY — Imaginary Voyage (1976-1990) Two Version | WV (image+.cue), lossless + FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless)

As of 1976, Jean-Luc Ponty's variations on the Mahavishnu Orchestra theme were still fresh and imaginative, cast in a distinctively different, more lyrical, more controlled framework. For Imaginary Voyage, Ponty's instrumental lineup is identical to that of Mahavishnu -- electric violin, guitar, keyboards, bass, drums -- but he turns the emphasis on its head, with all commands coming directly from the violin (his) and less competitive crossplay emanating from his colleagues. For starters, "New Country" is a lively jazz-rock hoedown, one of those periodic C&W side trips that some fusioneers attempt for a lark, and "The Gardens of Babylon" is a wonderfully memorable tune, the beginnings of which grow out of "New Country." The last half of the LP is taken up by the title composition, a strong four-part suite that hangs together with barely a snag in interest over its 20-minute span. Richard S. Ginell

Tracklist :

1. New Country (3:07)

2. The Gardens Of Babylon (5:06)

3. Wandering On The Milky Way (Violin Solo) (1:50)

4. Once Upon A Dream (4:08)

5. Tarantula (4:04)

6. Imaginary Voyage

Part I (2:22)

Part II (4:05)

Part III (5:28)

Part IV (8:00)

Total Time 38:10

Line-up / Musicians

- Jean-Luc Ponty / Electric and acoustic violins, organ and background synthesizers

- Marc Craney / Percussion

- Tom Fowler / Electric bass

- Daryl Steurmer / Electric and acoustic guitars

- Allan Zavod / Electric keyboards and Acoustic piano

CAROL STEVENS WITH PHIL MOORE'S MUSIC — That Satin Doll (1957-1991) Mono | Ladies Sing Jazz Series | APE (image+.cue), lossless

That Satin Doll pairs Carol Stevens with arranger Phil Moore to create one of the more unique and evocative major-label LPs of its era. Stevens' breathy, often haunting voice largely eschews conventional vocal approaches in favor of ethereal, wordless humming that perfectly complements Moore's exotic settings -- there's something profoundly otherworldly yet curiously sexy about the record, and you just know Captain Kirk kept a copy handy to set the mood while banging green-skinned alien chicks aboard the U.S.S. Enterprise. Flautist Herbie Mann, guitarist Barry Galbraith and trumpeter Don Elliott further underscore That Satin Doll's moonlit beauty, contributing wonderfully nuanced performances that lend the music its distinctly jazzy appeal. Jason Ankeny
Tracklist :
1        In A Mellotone 2:22
Written-By – Duke Ellington, Milt Gabler
2        Satin Doll 2:47
Written-By – Duke Ellington
3        Saved It All For You 3:09
Written-By – Phil Moore
4        Everywhere 3:10
Written-By – Bill Harris
5        Mood For You 2:30
Written-By – Phil Moore
6        Lurelei (F. H. C.) 2:38
Written-By – Phil Moore
7        Romance In The Dark 2:57
Written-By – Willie Broonzy, Lil Green
8        Lying In The Hay 2:57
Written-By – Pepper, Roberts, Jean Franc-Nohain, Mireille
9        I'm Playing With Fire 1:33
Written-By – Irving Berlin
10        Tender As A Rose 3:19
Written-By – Phil Moore
11        Keep On Doin' What You're Doin' 2:15
Written-By – Bert Kalmar, Harry Ruby
12        At Last 2:10
Written-By – Harry Warren, Mark Gordon
Credits :
Bass – Milt Hinton
Bass Clarinet – Bernard Kaufman (tracks: 2, 4 to 7, 9 to 12), Sol Schlinger (tracks: 1, 3, 8)
Drums – Osie Johnson
English Horn, Clarinet – Phil Bodner (tracks: 1, 3, 8)
Flute – Bernard Kaufman (tracks: 2, 4 to 7, 9 to 12)
Flute [Alto] – Herbie Mann (tracks: 1, 3, 8)
Guitar – Barry Galbraith
Percussion – Phil Kraus (tracks: 1, 3, 8)
Piano – Frank Berry
Piano, Directed By [Musical Director] – Phil Moore
Trombone – Eddie Bert (tracks: 1, 3, 8), Warren Covington (tracks: 2, 4 to 7, 9 to 12)
Trumpet – Nick Travis (tracks: 1, 3, 8)
Trumpet, Mellophone – Don Elliott (tracks: 2, 4 to 7, 9 to 12)
Vibraphone – Bobby Rosengarden (tracks: 2, 4 to 7, 9 to 12)
Vocals – Carol Stevens
Woodwind – Romeo Penque (tracks: 2, 4 to 7, 9 to 12)

CHARLES MINGUS — Mingus at Carnegie Hall (1974-2006) RM | Serie Atlantic 60th | FLAC (tracks+.cue) lossless

Atlantic Records, somewhat perversely, chose to release two performances from this concert that had the strongest aura of "jam session" about them. But the show included a solid opening set by the working band of the time, as well as a freer finale, all of which remains unissued. This is a fun 45 minutes, particularly for the jovial interplay between saxophonists Kirk and Adams, but in its released form, only hints at the strength of The Jazz Workshop in 1974. Stuart Kremsky
Tracklist :
1    C Jam Blues 24:40
Written-By – Duke Ellington
2    Perdido 21:57
Written-By – Ervin Drake, Hans Lengsfelder, Juan Tizol
Credits :
Alto Saxophone – Charles McPherson
Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone – John Handy
Baritone Saxophone – Hamiet Bluiett
Bass – Charles Mingus
Drums – Dannie Richmond
Piano – Don Pullen
Tenor Saxophone – George Adams
Tenor Saxophone, Saxophone [Stritch] – Rahsaan Roland Kirk
Trumpet – Jon Faddis

DICK KATZ — Piano & Pen (1959- 2012) RM Limited Edition | Serie Jazz Best Collection 1000 – 4 | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Tracklist :
1    Timonium 5:08
Written-By – Dick Katz
2    Aurora 4:29
Written-By – Dick Katz
3    Duologue No.1 4:32
Written-By – Dick Katz
4    Glad To Be Unhappy 4:44
Written-By – Richard Rodgers & Lorenz Hart
5    Round Trip 3:20
Written-By – Dick Katz
6    Afternoon In Paris 6:53
Written-By – John Lewis
7    Ain't Misbehavin' 4:03
Written-By – Andy Razaf, Thomas Waller, Harry Brooks
8    Scrapple From The Apple 4:34
Written-By – Charlie Parker
Credits :
Bass – Joe Benjamin
Drums – Connie Kay
Guitar – Chuck Wayne (tracks: 1,3,4,8), Jimmy Raney (tracks: 2,5,6,7)
Piano – Dick Katz

ELVIN JONES — And Then Again (1965-2017) RM | SHM-CD Limited Edition | Serie Jazz Masters Collection 1200 – 10 | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Tracklist :
1    Azan 3:38
Charles Davis / Arranged By, Conductor – Melba Liston
2    All Deliberate Speed 7:35
Arranged By, Conductor – Melba Liston
3    Elvin Elpus 5:52
Arranged By, Conductor – Melba Liston
4    Soon After 3:35
Arranged By, Conductor – Melba Liston
5    Forever Summer 4:04
Thad Jones / Arranged By, Conductor – Melba Liston
6    Len Sirrah 3:42
Arranged By, Conductor – Melba Liston
7    And Then Again 6:21
Elvin Jones / Arranged By, Conductor – Melba Liston
Credits :
Baritone Saxophone – Charles Davis
Bass – Art Davis, Paul Chambers
Cornet – Thad Jones
Drums – Elvin Jones
Piano – Don Friedman, Hank Jones
Flute, Tenor Saxophone – Frank Wess
Trombone – Hunt Peters
Arranged By, Conductor – Melba Liston

ELVIN JONES — Midnight Walk (1966-2012) RM | Limited Edition | Serie Jazz Best Collection 1000 – 3 | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Tracklist :
1    Midnight Walk 3:30
Composed By – Arif Mardin
2    Lycra Too ? 4:50
Composed By – Stephen James
3    Tintiyana 5:45
Composed By – Dollar Brand
4    H.M. On F.M. 5:00
Composed By – Hank Mobley
5    Cross Purpose 6:00
Composed By – Thad Jones
6    All Of Us 6:25
Composed By – Thad Jones
7    The Juggler 4:30
Composed By – Elvin Jones
Credits :
Bass – Donald Moore
Drums – Elvin Jones
Electric Piano – Steve James (tracks: 2 to 4, 7)
Percussion – George Abend (tracks: 1, 5, 6)
Piano – Dollar Brand
Tenor Saxophone – Hank Mobley
Trumpet – Thad Jones

PHILIP CATHERINE — September Man (1974-2017) RM | Vinyl, LP | FLAC (tracks), lossless

Credit where credit is due: Palle Mikkelborg - trumpet, piano, Jasper van't Hoff - keyboards, Charlie Mariano - saxes + flute, John Lee - bass and Gerry Brown - drums. Catherine mostly on electric guitar but also occasional acoustic moments. It is never loud but still very intense, rarely fast but far from lame. While there are great solos throughout, the other players are not pushed to the background by the one in the spotlight but instead respond and challenge. This is more of a band album than a guitarist's showcase. Roxanne Walsh
Tracklist :
A1     Nairam    4:30
    Composed By – Ph. Catherine
A2     Nineteen Seventy Fourths    9:44
    Composed By – J. Lee
A3     T.P.C.    4:30
    Composed By – P. Mikkelborg
A4     September Man    0:30
    Composed By – Ph. Catherine, Instruments [All Instruments] – Philip Catherine
    When It Is
    Composed By – P. Mikkelborg
B1a     The Beginning     5:59
B1b     The Middle     10:00
B1c     The End    2:43
    Piano [Acoustic Piano] – Palle Mikkelborg
B2     Monday 13    2:05
    Composed By – Ph. Catherine, Instruments [All Instruments] – Philip Catherine
Credits :
Bass [Basses] – John Lee
Drums – Gerry Brown
Guitar [Guitars] – Philip Catherine
Piano, Organ – Jasper Van't Hoff
Saxophone [Saxophones], Flute [Flutes] – Charlie Mariano
Trumpet – Palle Mikkelborg

PHILIP CATHERINE — Guitars (1975-2017) RM | Vinyl, LP, 180 gr. | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Tracklist :
A1    We'll Find A Way 5:04
Written-By – Gerry Brown, John Lee, Philip Catherine, Rob Franken
A2    Five Thousand Policemen 1:58
Written-By – Charlie Mariano, Jasper Van't Hof, Philip Catherine
A3    Sneezing Bull 7:05
Written-By – Philip Catherine
A4    Rene Thomas 4:43
Written-By – Charlie Mariano, Gerry Brown, John Lee, Philip Catherine
A5    Moss And Weeds 1:15
Written-By – Philip Catherine
B1    Homecomings 5:43
Written-By – Gerry Brown, Philip Catherine
B2    Charlotte 3:52
Written-By – Charlie Mariano, Philip Catherine
B3    Noburl 8:05
Written-By – Gerry Brown, John Lee, Philip Catherine
B4    Isabelle 1:45
Written-By – Philip Catherine
Credits
Bass – John Lee
Drums – Gerry Brown
Electric Guitar, Acoustic Guitar, Classical Guitar, Banjo, Electric Bass, Piano, Bulbul Tarang, 12-String Acoustic Guitar – Philip Catherine
Piano – Jasper Van't Hof
Soprano Saxophone, Alto Saxophone – Charlie Mariano
Synth [String Ensemble] – Rob Franken

CHARLES LLOYD — In The Soviet Union (1967- 2013) RM | Serie Jazz Best Collection 1000 – 6 | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

The Charles Lloyd Quartet was (along with Cannonball Adderley's band) the most popular group in jazz during the latter half of the 1960s. Lloyd somehow managed this feat without watering down his music or adopting a pop repertoire. A measure of the band's popularity is that Lloyd and his sidemen (pianist Keith Jarrett, bassist Ron McClure and drummer Jack DeJohnette) were able to have a very successful tour of the Soviet Union during a period when jazz was still being discouraged by the communists. This well-received festival appearance has four lengthy performances including an 18-minute version of "Sweet Georgia Bright" and Lloyd (who has always had a soft-toned Coltrane influenced tenor style and a more distinctive voice on flute) is in top form.  Scott Yanow
Tracklist :

1.    Days and Nights Waiting 7:06
Keith Jarrett
2.    Sweet Georgia Bright 17:54
Charles Lloyd
3.    Love Song to a Baby 12:32
Charles Lloyd
4.    Tribal Dance 10:22
Charles Lloyd
Credits :
Bass – Ron McClure
Drums – Jack DeJohnette
Piano – Keith Jarrett
Tenor Saxophone, Flute – Charles Lloyd

CARMEN McRAE — The Great American Songbook (1972) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

On this popular two-LP set, singer Carmen McRae interprets songs by Duke Ellington, Cole Porter, Michel Legrand, Warren & Dubin, Henry Mancini, and Jimmy Van Heusen, among others, but it is her rendition of a humorous Jimmy Rowles novelty ("The Ballad of Thelonious Monk") that is best remembered. Joined by pianist Rowles, guitarist Joe Pass, bassist Chuck Domanico, and drummer Chuck Flores, McRae had what was at the time a rare opportunity to record a live, spontaneous, jazz-oriented set. She sounds quite enthusiastic about both her accompaniment and the strong repertoire, which includes "At Long Last Love," "I Only Have Eyes for You," "Sunday," "I Cried for You," and "I Thought About You." Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
1     Satin Doll 4'34
Duke Ellington / Johnny Mercer / Billy Strayhorn
2     At Long Last Love 2'27
Cole Porter
3     If the Moon Turns Green 4'22
Paul Coates / Bernie Hanighen
4     Day by Day 2'22
Sammy Cahn / Axel Stordahl / Paul Weston
5     What Are You Doing the Rest of Your Life? 4'14
Alan Bergman / Marilyn Bergman / Michel Legrand
6     I Only Have Eyes for You 4'12
Al Dubin / Harry Warren
7     Medley: Easy Living/The Days of Wine and Roses/It's Impossible 9'14
Henry Mancini / Armando Manzanero / Johnny Mercer / Ralph Rainger / Leo Robin / Sid Wayne
8     Sunday 4'10
Chester Conn / Benny Krueger / Ned Miller / Jule Styne
9     A Song for You 4'46
Leon Russell
10     I Cried for You 2'21
Gus Arnheim / Arthur Freed / Abe Lyman
11     Behind the Face 2'44
Jimmy Rowles
12     The Ballad of Thelonious Monk 3'29
Jimmy Rowles
13     There's No Such Thing as Love 5'00
Ian Fraser / Anthony Newley
14     (They Long to Be) Close to You 4'37
Burt Bacharach / Hal David
15     Three Little Words 1'58
Bert Kalmar / Harry Ruby
16     Mr. Ugly 4'00
Norman Mapp
17     It's Like Reaching for the Moon 2'53
Al Lewis / Gerald Marqusee / Al Sherman
18     I Thought About You 3'54
James Van Heusen / Johnny Mercer
Credits :
Bass – Chuck Domanico
Drums – Chuck Flores
Guitar – Joe Pass
Piano – Jimmy Rowles

BILLY COBHAM — Crosswinds (1974-2001) RM | Atlantic Masters Series | FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Billy Cobham's second date as a leader was one of his better sessions. Four songs (all originals by the leader/drummer) comprise "Spanish Moss -- A Sound Portrait," and, in addition, Cobham contributed three other pieces. The selections team him with guitarist John Abercrombie, both of the Brecker Brothers, trombonist Garnett Brown, keyboardist George Duke, bassist John Williams, and Latin percussionist Lee Pastora. In general, the melodies and the vamps are reasonably memorable. Cobham also takes an unaccompanied drum solo on "Storm." Worth searching for by fusion collectors. Scott Yanow
Tracklist :
Spanish Moss - "A Sound Portrait" 17:08
1.a Spanish Moss 4:08
Acoustic Bass, Electric Bass – John Williams 
Guitar – John Abercrombie
Keyboards – George Duke
Percussion – Billy Cobham
Percussion [Latin] – Lee Pastora
Trombone – Garnett Brown
Trumpet – Randy Brecker
Woodwind – Michael Brecker
1.b Savannah The Serene 5:09
Acoustic Bass – John Williams  
Acoustic Guitar – John Abercrombie
Keyboards [Solo] – George Duke
Percussion – Billy Cobham
Trombone [Solo] – Garnett Brown
1.c Storm  2:46
Percussion [Solo] – Billy Cobham
1.d Flash Flood 5:05
Acoustic Bass, Electric Bass – John Williams  
Guitar [Solo] – John Abercrombie
Keyboards – George Duke
Percussion – Billy Cobham
Percussion [Latin] – Lee Pastora
Trombone – Garnett Brown
Trumpet [Solo] – Randy Brecker
Woodwind – Michael Brecker
2 The Pleasant Pheasant 5:11
Acoustic Bass, Electric Bass – John Williams  
Guitar – John Abercrombie
Keyboards [Solo] – George Duke
Percussion [Latin, Solo] – Lee Pastora
Percussion [Solo] – Billy Cobham
Trombone – Garnett Brown
Trumpet – Randy Brecker
Woodwind [Solo] – Michael Brecker
3 Heather 8:25
Acoustic Bass, Electric Bass – John Williams  
Guitar – John Abercrombie
Keyboards [Solo] – George Duke
Percussion – Billy Cobham
Percussion [Latin] – Lee Pastora
Trombone – Garnett Brown
Trumpet – Randy Brecker
Woodwind [Solo] – Michael Brecker
4 Crosswind 3:39
Acoustic Bass, Electric Bass – John Williams 
Guitar [Solo] – John Abercrombie
Keyboards – George Duke
Percussion – Billy Cobham
Percussion [Latin] – Lee Pastora
Trombone – Garnett Brown
Trumpet – Randy Brecker
Woodwind – Michael Brecker

DANNY GOTTLIEB — Aquamarine (1987) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Tracklist:
1. Aquamarine (Doug Hall) 4:59
2. Monterey (Danny Gottlieb, Joe Satriani) 4:22
3. The Aviary (Danny Gottlieb, John Abercrombie) 4:39
4. Alaska (Danny Gottlieb, Doug Hall) 6:52
5. Waterfall (Doug Hall) 3:08
6. Being (Mitchell Forman) 6:27
7. Duet (John McLaughlin) 3:28
8. Upon A Time (John Abercrombie) 4:54
9. Peace Of Mind (John McLaughlin) 3:33
Credits:
Personnel:
Bass – Mark Egan (tracks: 2, 4, 5, 9)
Drums – Danny Gottlieb
Guitar – Jeff Mironov (tracks: 4), Joe Satriani (tracks: 2), John Abercrombie (tracks: 1, 3, 8), John McLaughlin (tracks: 7), Steve Kahn (tracks: 1)
Keyboards – Mitchell Forman (tracks: 2)
Keyboards, Producer, Engineer, Mixed By – Doug Hall (tracks: 1, 2, 4, 5)
Percussion – Cafe (tracks: 1, 2, 5)
Saxophone – Bill Evans (tracks: 4, 5)
Vibraphone – Dave Samuels (tracks: 5)

JOE ZAWINUL — Zawinul (1971-1994) FLAC (tracks+.cue), lossless

Conceptually, sonically, this is really the first Weather Report album in all but name, confirming that Joe Zawinul was the primary creative engine behind the group from the beginning. It is also the link between WR and Miles Davis' keyboard-laden experiments on In a Silent Way; indeed, the tune "In a Silent Way" is redone in the more complex form in which Zawinul envisioned it, and Miles even contributes a brief, generous tribute to Zawinul on the liner. Two keyboardists -- Zawinul and the formidable Herbie Hancock -- form the underpinning of this stately, probing album, garnishing their work with the galactic sound effects of the Echoplex and ring modulator. Earl Turbinton provides the Wayne Shorter-like beams of light on the soprano sax, spelled by Wayne himself on "Double Image." The third founder of WR, Miroslav Vitous, checks in on bass, and hard-bopping trumpeter Woody Shaw proves to be perfectly adept at the jazz-rock game. Two short-lived standards of the jazz-rock era, the aforementioned "Double Image" and "Doctor Honoris Causa," are introduced here, yet it is mood pieces like "His Last Journey" and "Arrival in New York" that with the help of tape-speed manipulation, establish the lasting, murky, reflective ambience of this CD. Richard S. Ginell      Tracklist & Credits :

MILT JACKSON — Ballads & Blues (1956-2012) RM | Jazz Best Collection 1000 Series | MONO | FLAC (image+.cue), lossless

Comes with a mini description. Ballads & Blues is an album by American jazz vibraphonist Milt Jackson featuring performances recorded in 1956 and released on the Atlantic label. The unassuming title of this compilation understates the fact that Milt Jackson is a master of ballad and blues forms, and an inspired collaborator when working flautists.
The small group settings for these performances allow the players – some of the very best in jazz and all in top form – to be heard to full advantage. The guitarists are particularly effective, the crisp, cool tones of Skeeter Best, Barry Galbraith, Barney Kessel, and Kenny Burrell complementing the rich, ringing cascade from Jackson's vibes. Of note from 1956's Ballads and Blues are two performances with tenor saxophonist Lucky Thompson. These will be appreciated by anyone who has enjoyed Jackson's work with Thompson on the Savoy label. The 1956 date also has three Ralph Burns arrangements that augment the players with a woodwind quintet. While neither overly lush or cloying, the oboes, etc., still don't add a lot to what the core group has to say.
Tracklist :
1    So In Love 3:11

Written-By – Cole Porter
2    These Foolish Things 4:26
Written-By – Harry Link, Holt Marvell
3    Solitude 4:39
Written-By – Duke Ellington, Eddie de Lange, Irving Mills
4    The Song Is Ended 4:39
Written-By – Irving Berlin
5    They Didn't Believe Me 3:44
Written-By – Jerome Kern, M. E. Rourke
6    How High The Moon 6:12
Written-By – M. Lewis, Nancy Hamilton
7    Gerry's Blues 5:00
Written-By – Milt Jackson
8    Hello 3:44
Written-By – Milt Jackson
9    Bright Blues 6:11
Written-By – Milt Jackson
Personnel :
Milt Jackson – Vibes
Lucky Thompson - Tenor Saxophone (tracks 6, 8 & 9)
John Lewis - Piano (tracks 1, 3, 5, 6, 8 & 9)
Skeeter Best (tracks 6, 8 & 9), Barry Galbraith (tracks 1, 3 & 5), Barney Kessel (tracks 2, 4 & 7) – Guitar
Percy Heath (tracks 2, 4 & 7), Oscar Pettiford (tracks 1, 3, 5, 6, 8 & 9) - Bass
Kenny Clarke (tracks 1, 3, 5, 6, 8 & 9), Lawrence Marable (tracks 2, 4 & 7) – Drums