Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
DownBeat’s 73rd Annual Critics Poll: One for the Record Books
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
The Branford Marsalis Quartet is set to release its new disc, Braggtown (Marsalis Music) on Sept. 12.
“This is a group with a tighter, more explosive sound,” Marsalis said of his quartet, which includes pianist Joey Calderazzo, bassist Eric Revis and drummer Jeff “Tain” Watts. “Even if you only heard us three or four years ago, we sound different, which is the natural way a band grows when everyone is working at getting better.”
Along with Marsalis’ original composition, “Sir Roderick, The Aloof,” other pieces on the disc include Watts’ “Blakzilla” and an interpretation of 17th century British composer Henry Purcell’s “O, Solitude.”
James Brandon Lewis earned honors for Artist of the Year and Tenor Saxophonist of the Year. Three of his recordings placed in the Albums of the Year category.
Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
Galper was often regarded as an underrated master of his craft.
Jul 22, 2025 10:58 AM
Hal Galper, a pianist, composer and arranger who enjoyed a substantial performing career but made perhaps a deeper…
Chuck Mangione on the cover of the May 8, 1975, edition of DownBeat.
Jul 29, 2025 1:00 PM
Chuck Mangione, one of the most popular trumpeters in jazz history, passed away on July 24 at home in Rochester, New…
“Hamiet was one of the most underrated musicians ever,” says Whitaker of baritone saxophonist Hamiet Bluiett.
Jul 8, 2025 7:30 AM
At 56, Rodney Whitaker, professor of jazz bass and director of jazz studies at Michigan State University, is equally…
Jul 17, 2025 11:35 AM
The DownBeat Critics Poll provides a wonderful snapshot of the jazz scene today, with much to explore and many great…
