Mammal Hands

I just discovered this band and a few hours later, the recording is on my doorstep.

"Gift From the Trees" by Mammal Hands. On compact disc. Released this year on Gondwana Records. 

For the past year or two, I've been searching for new sounds and directions in jazz. Something besides bands covering the standards. Mammal Hands is one of the results of that search. 

I rarely sit and listen to an album all the way through. My usual method is to listen to two or three songs at a time. But I was unable to walk away from this. 

Changing Earth

'Changing Earth' by Matthew Halsall.

An EP from 2022. Four songs of beautiful jazz trumpet. 

Discovering his 2011 album titled: 'On the Go' 2012's Fletcher Moss Park' is what initially fueled my search for other directions in jazz. His music isn't a radical shift, but it was enough to edge me to look for new voices. It all has resulted in finding artists like; Makaya McCraven, Jeff Parker and Ambrose Akinmusire ...... So far that is. I haven't stopped looking.

I'm hoping there's much more to discover.

The aforementioned, 'Fletcher Moss Park.'

Because the four song EP just wasn't enough. That's the eternal condition and complication with music you enjoy. Never getting enough.

Portico Quartet

New vinyl titled, 'Terrain' from Portico Quartet.

Discovered this group about a year ago while searching for new directions in jazz. This is their recently released recording. A fusion of sounds .... jazz, contemporary jazz and maybe even a little avant-garde or free jazz.

Makes me wish that I could review records and relay an accurate idea of what was heard. 

Fascinating looping rhythms that swirl and soar (in my case), for moments after the needle has been lifted from the turntable.

Jeff Parker & the New Breed

Jeff Parker & the New Breed - 'Suite for Max Brown'

Saw a Twitter friend that I follow (who happens to be from Portland), post a photo of the cover while tweeting what she's listening to. (Thanks Jen!!) Was intrigued, checked it out, listened to a few moments, ordered it and it arrived the next day. If you can't go to the record store because of a little old pandemic or there's simply no stores remaining in your hometown, then this is the way to get your music .... next day, at your front door, when you return home from work!!!

The other directions in Jazz that I've been searching for. On vinyl!!!