A selection of the standout tracks from the best new releases in jazz on eMusic. From the oldest school to the newest thing, torch songs to Cubop, this first edition takes an open-minded but semi-purist (no "smooth jazz" thank you) approach to the most notable jazz releases from the first half of 2011. Yes, stylistically it is all over the map: That's why jazz is known as "the sound of surprise." more »
I've been back from Austin for about 48 hours, but my body is only just now starting to adjust to things like normal sleep patterns, being stationary for long periods of time, and not drinking beer every day. Soon, I will stop having dreams that I am being chased by a giant, furious side of brisket. I look forward to those days in breathless anticipation. Until they arrive, here's this week's New Arrivals: The Shins, Port… more »
While the legendary voices of such jazz icons as Billie, Ella and Sarah still ring true, subsequent generations of female jazz vocalists have taken the music in new directions, especially in the '90s, ranging from Cassandra Wilson's new-standard caress to Diana Krall's classics with a twist. Taking their lead, young singers over the last decade have been swinging the vocal tradition onto a new plateau with a pop sensibility. In the mix are tunes by… more »
