Articles by Bob Osborne
New Music From Joe Lovano, Peter Erskine, George J. Gilliam And More
by Bob Osborne
This collection offers a sophisticated journey through the expansive landscape of contemporary jazz, balancing reverent interpretations of the tradition with bold, experimental frontiers. From intimate trio dialogues and reimagined standards to the sweeping textures of modern orchestral arrangements, these selections highlight the genre's remarkable ability to evolve while staying rooted in its core values of improvisation and rhythmic rigour. Whether exploring the avant-garde edges of the New York scene or the storied heritage of European jazz, this playlist serves as ...
Continue ReadingNew Music From Jackson, Gehenot, Arbenz, And More
by Bob Osborne
This selection offers a captivating journey through the expansive landscapes of contemporary jazz and avant-garde exploration, highlighting the incredible breadth of modern improvisation. By weaving together delicate chamber textures, spirited orchestral arrangements, and the visceral energy of experimental fusion, the sequence prioritises a sense of constant discovery. From intimate melodic conversations to the sprawling, historic depths of genre-defining masterworks, these tracks reflect a shared commitment to pushing boundaries while maintaining a profound emotional resonance. This is music designed for those ...
Continue ReadingNew Music From Smith, Barakan, LDL, Harrington Jaffe & Shiroishi, And More
by Bob Osborne
This playlist of all new releases offers a sophisticated journey through the expansive landscape of contemporary and classic jazz, seamlessly transitioning between structured elegance and avant-garde exploration. Listeners are invited to traverse a sonic terrain that ranges from intimate, tradition-steeped trio performances and lush big band arrangements to the more challenging, textural fringes of free improvisation. Whether grounded by melodic warmth or propelled by experimental rhythmic structures, the collection captures a broad spectrum of instrumental dialogue, celebrating both the quiet ...
Continue ReadingNew Music from Smith, Wendel, Fraser, Sweenie & More
by Bob Osborne
This selection offers a sophisticated journey through the expansive landscape of contemporary and classic jazz, seamlessly blending intricate post-bop textures with avant-garde exploration and orchestral grandeur. From the evocative, cinematic atmospheres to the raw, legendary improvisations, the tracks traverse a broad spectrum of emotional and technical brilliance. Modern leaders provide a fresh dialogue between tradition and innovation, ensuring a listening experience that is as intellectually stimulating as it is harmonically rich. Whether navigating the tightly knit polyrhythms of a modern ...
Continue ReadingNew Music From Douglas, Xangorchestra, Mycio, HøIby And More
by Bob Osborne
The continuum of exploration in the world of jazz runs through this set of fourteen releases, twelve of them brand new. Jazz keeps pressing at its own boundaries while drawing structure and ideas from other musical forms, the result is a playlist that moves cleanly between contrasting approaches. The closing track is presented as a tribute to Don Cherry, yet its energy and scale echo electricperiod Miles Davis, a timely reminder of his influence in his centenary year.Playlist ...
Continue ReadingNew Music From Holt, Mehler, Litzie, And More
by Bob Osborne
This collection is designed as a sophisticated exploration of contemporary jazz, traversing the boundary between structured melody and avant-garde expression. The sequence balances rhythmic vitality with expansive, experimental soundscapes, offering a rich contrast between technical brilliance and raw emotional depth. Featuring a diverse array of instrumental textures and evocative vocal moments, the playlist provides a comprehensive look at the genre's modern evolution.Playlist Corcoran Holt “Transition Blues" from Freedom of Art(Holthouse Music) 00:00 Elan Mehler “Renee Said" from Renee ...
Continue ReadingNew Music From Landrus, Imboden, Crispell & Jormin, Frisell, And More
by Bob Osborne
This selection offers a sophisticated journey through the contemporary jazz landscape, balancing the refined elegance of established labels with the bold spirit of independent releases. From expansive orchestral arrangements and intimate live performances to experimental dialogues and vibrant global influences, the playlist captures a diverse array of textures and moods. Whether exploring melodic introspection or energetic improvisation, these tracks collectively celebrate the evolving colour and depth of modern creative music.Playlist Brian Landrus “Averse" from Just When You Think ...
Continue ReadingNew Music From Robinson, Emmer, Irabagon And More
by Bob Osborne
This selection offers a sophisticated journey through the contemporary jazz landscape, seamlessly blending traditional virtuosity with avant-garde exploration. From the cinematic resonance of dedicated tributes to the intricate textures of improvisational duos, the collection showcases a diverse array of international talent and independent spirit. Whether moving through evocative, melancholic ballads or high-energy live performances, these tracks highlight the remarkable breadth of modern composition and the enduring vitality of the genre. PlaylistSam Robinson “Brian's Tune" from Chasin' The Dream ...
Continue ReadingNew Releases From MacKelvie, Douglas, Meyer, Bernhard and More
by Bob Osborne
A mixed set of new releases with a broad selections of styles in play including a preview of the type of material likely to land on Record Store Day in April 2026 i.e. the ubiquitous “previously unreleased material." Early indications are that there will be a flurry of material from archives. Pending that here is a bakers dozen plus one of artists striving to extend existing jazz boundaries to exciting new places. Playlist Andrew MacKelvie “Realities Blossom" from ...
Continue ReadingNew Releases From Adewumi, Reid, Norvo, Oná Ensemble, Aldana & More
by Bob Osborne
This collection offers a rich exploration of contemporary jazz and improvised music, traversing a landscape of diverse textures and international influences. From cerebral, atmospheric openings and avant-garde energy to vibrant rhythmic inflections, the selection balances intricate composition with spontaneous dialogue. Whether revisiting classic themes through a modern lens or delving into expansive collective improvisations, these tracks highlight the exceptional craft and emotive power found across the modern independent landscape. Playlist Dave Adewumi “The Flame Beneath The Silence" from ...
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