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Show Reviews
Charlie Hunter - Live at Molly Malone's
Charlie Hunter has the ability to have fun and relax, in seamless fashion, all the while working. As the show opened on the 2nd floor of Molly Malone’s in Covington, he wasted no time diving into the music; as he and Drummer Derek Phillips played four tunes before verbally addressing the audience. But ah, this is what true enthusiasts...
Annie Sellick - CD Review
Annie Sellick has a vocal swagger that cannot be mistaken. Those who have heard her previous recordings know that this is nothing new. This confidence isn’t limited to Annie’s voice. A look of the eye, coupled with an assuring smile lends the audience a teasing hint of what’s in store for the evening. ...
Wade Baker Jazz Collaboration - CD Review
On October 17th, Cincinnati Jazz Trumpeter Wade Baker officially released his first CD from the group of his namesake, The Wade Baker Jazz Collaboration. The CD was recorded live at The Redmoor, and showcases the work of Wade on Trumpet, Ben Walkenhauer on Tenor, Brandon Meeks on Bass, Andrew Tooms on Piano, and Anthony “T” Lee on Drums.
B.J. Jansen & Frank Stagnitta - CD Review
Baritone Saxophonist B.J. Jansen recently released “Syracuse Connection” in early November. In this 4th album, B.J. is back with Pianist Frank Stagnitta, offering original compositions on a total of 5 out of 7 tracks (B.J. with 4, and Frank with 1, respectively). Born and raised in Cincinnati, and now living in New York City, Jansen’s talents extend beyond Musician.
Dana Hall - CD Review
After nearly 20-plus years playing as a sideman for musicians like Kenny Barron, Branford Marsalis, and many others, Dana Hall gets his just due with his debut CD, Into The Light, as a bandleader. Debut or not...
The Art Gore Quartet
On Saturday April 21st, the Art Gore Quartet performed a mini-set at the Public Library Main Branch as part of the Jazz of the Month Club series supported by Jazz Artist and Educator Jamey Aebersold.
Banu Gibson
On Sunday April 29th, Banu Gibson and the New Orleans Hot Jazz Group performed at the Fitton Center Ballroom in Hamilton, Ohio. The show was graciously presented by the Little Chicago Jazz Society of Hamilton.
The Brent Gallaher Quartet
Brent Gallaher is a staple of the Cincinnati jazz scene. Whether backing up other musicians or in the spotlight as band leader, he is a well-known and well-played member of our jazz community.
Mary Ellen Tanner
Its a hot Sunday evening in late June, and Mary Ellen Tanner is preparing to add another performance to her long list of great Cincinnati shows. On this particular evening, Chez Nora’s famous 3rd floor Jazz Club is the place to be.
The Northside Jazz Ensemble
Conventional wisdom suggests that well-known, big-city venues feature the big Artists. That same wisdom should consider the intense degree of magic and energy produced by some of the small community venues; as evidenced by the performance of the Northside Jazz Ensemble at the Northside Tavern.
Steve Whipple Trio
As people entered the Blue Wisp, there was a possibility of no one being fully unaware of the magnificent show that was in store. This event was billed “A Night of Gershwin”, featuring selections from the book of Ira Gershwin as performed by the Steve Whipple Trio.
The Christian McBride Band
Cincinnati, home to some incredible jazz in its own right, is tonight the beneficiary of a real treat. The Christian McBride Band, with its namesake bass player/bandleader at the helm, visits the queen city, care of the Rhythm N’ Blue Ash concert series.
Joey DeFrancesco
Joey DeFrancesco plays the Blue Wisp Jazz Club February 12, providing a perfect beat-the-Valentines-Day-rush-by-going-out-a-day-or-two-earlier-or-later night out for jazz aficionados and music lovers of any genre.
Xavier Univ. Faculty Jazztet
This event was a planned and successful surprise, as evidenced by John Defoor’s opening (and humorous) comment: “I hate surprises”. Organized by the Jazz Ensemble’s Manager Sue Brown, the purpose of this Tuesday night event was to recognize and congratulate John on 25 years of teaching and guiding as Director of the Xavier University Jazz Studies Program.
A Real Cincy Jam Session
Though you might not know it by reading the more mainstream local press, Cincinnati is rich in jazz. It has a well-rooted history and heritage as well as a bustling local scene. Jazz in Cincinnati is important to every demographic. Young and old; black and white; musician and non-, the art form holds meaning in our community, and is continually spreading its roots.
Triage, featuring Eugene Goss
An overcast Sunday afternoon in early April found me at the Fairfield Community Arts Center, seated front and center, ready to listen to the music of Triage, featuring Eugene Goss. I recall seeing Eugene perform with Irwin Stuckey years ago at Chez Nora, and vividly remember his entertaining style, and balanced state of presence.