There's a lot to like about this session led by Jim Rotondi. This superb trumpeter, flngelhornist, and arranger is joined by a first-rate rhythm section (pianist David Hazeltine, bassist Ray Drummond, and drummer Joe Farnsworth), as well as the talented yet under-appreciated alto saxophonist Jesse Davis on five of the eight tracks. The program itself is well balanced, with great blowing, imaginative charts and a pair of strong originals. Rotondi's cooking "On Y Va (Let's Go)" is a bril...   [ read more ]

CD $16.13

An Evening With Harry Belafonte & Friends is an album to accompany the live performance of the same shown on PBS television stations in 1997. It is a remarkable album, especially considering Belafonte's longevity. The album contains multiple songs dealing with oppression and freedom, as it is one of Belafonte's major endeavors. There are some beautiful pieces written by guitarist Richard Bona, of Cameroon, such as "Eyala" and "Eyando." Also, Jake Holmes provides numerous composition...   [ read more ]

CD $13.25

Songbirds bid farewell to the day to begin this relaxing album of free-form music and nature sounds. Brothers Steve and David Gordon play guitar, flute, and piano, lyrical improvisations based on the rhythms of bird songs, crickets, and owls rather than standard beats. It's easy to let go and enjoy the resonant tones, the echoes of sound, and the carefree symphony of nature. The eight pieces have names -- "Circle of Warmth," "Nightflyer" -- but they flow together with ease. The synthesizer delay/e...   [ read more ]

CD $10.43