Simon Moullier “Inception” cd Fresh Sound cd
Bass – Luca Alemanno
Drums – Jongkuk Kim
Executive-Producer – Jordi Pujol
Liner Notes – Morgan Enos
Vibraphone, Producer – Simon Moullier
Recorded at Sear Sound Recording Studio, New York City, October 11 & 12, 2022
Brian Culbertson’s Another Long Night Out is a masterclass in groove and sophistication. Revisiting his debut 20 years later, Culbertson brings in world-class musicians, lush arrangements, and that signature smooth-yet-funky vibe. A perfect blend of nostalgia and fresh energy — this one’s a must for jazz lovers.
Pianist Herbie Hancock in a playful mood experimenting with a latin-tinged approach featuring top notch support from Paul Chambers, Willie Bobo and Osvaldo Chihuahau Martinez on this fine Blue note reissue Inventions and Dimensions.
David Sanborn’s Upfront (1992) is a masterclass in groove. Funk, soul, and jazz all collide with Sanborn’s signature sax voice leading the way. Produced by Marcus Miller with an all-star lineup, this one still hits hard today. Standout tracks: Snakes, Outskirts of Town, Bang Bang.
Taking a journey through Pat Metheny’s Secret Story (1992) feels like stepping into a cinematic dream. With sweeping orchestration, world rhythms, and Metheny’s unmistakable guitar voice, this album tells an emotional story without words. It’s part jazz, part symphony, part global journey—and all heart. One of his most ambitious and timeless masterpieces.
Wow! A Palen! (guitar). They were built in very small numbers by a master luthier who, like Leo Fender, couldn’t play a note. Rare to see one of the finest guitars ever made.
Dewey Redman The Ear of the Behearer, more or less in the earlier Ornette Coleman free jazz style. The third track Walls and Bridges is a stand out on my 1998 CD version which partners The Ear of the Behearer with four cuts from the Impulse follow-up Coincide.
Fred Hersch. His latest release The Surrounding Green is a beautiful journey of piano-driven jazz, full of depth, emotion, and quiet brilliance. Each track feels like a conversation that draws you in. Definitely an album worth sitting with and letting it unfold.
Just revisited Bobby Hutcherson’s Enjoy the View (2014, Blue Note) — his final studio album before his passing. Vibraphone legend + David Sanborn (alto sax), Joey DeFrancesco (organ), and Billy Hart (drums) = pure magic.
It’s soulful, groovy, and deeply reflective — a mix of fiery swing and laid-back vibes that feels like a celebration of life itself. A beautiful last chapter from one of jazz’s most lyrical voices.
Highly recommend if you love modern Blue Note energy with a classic spirit.
I like this album. . . except Hart’s drumming. As a drummer/ex-drummer some of what he is doing here really bugs me.
Now Spinning: Lee Ritenour – Rit’s House (2002)
One of the most played albums in my collection. The legendary Lee Ritenour returns home with an album that feels equal parts smooth groove, jazz mastery, and laid-back sophistication. Rit’s House blends Ritenour’s signature fluid guitar tone with funk, Latin, and modern jazz textures, proving why he’s been a cornerstone of the scene for decades.
Standout tracks:
“Module 105” → sleek & urban energy
“Rit’s House” → pure groove in motion
“Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” → The Police, but make it jazz-fusion
“Olinda” → melodic beauty, perfect for a quiet night
This one’s polished, versatile, and effortlessly cool — an album that rewards deep listening but also just feels good in the background.
Perfect for late evenings, weekend relaxation, or when you want to remind yourself what true guitar finesse sounds like.
This one got by me, a new release? Sam Rivers covers I assume.
Yes, one of 2 releases from the Masters Ensemble this summer. This one is sort of a tribute to Rivers for his 100th birthday. Mostly Sam’s music, but there a couple of tunes that I don’t recognize….I generally think anything Mark Masters does is worth hearing..
Music Matter double 45 RPM Sam Rivers Fuchsia Swing Song
Gave it a listen earlier today and while I liked it I found the original Sam Rivers to be more to my liking, less polished and more in the moment.
Absolutely. Rivers is sort of a stretch for this band, but I do appreciate the effort!
