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…
Bassist Charlie Haden returns to his roots for his latest album, Ocean Of Diamonds, out Sept. 23 on Decca. The album features Haden “family songs” as he performs with his wife, son, triplet daughters and close friends. The album includes 19 songs ranging from traditional country to contemporary Americana.
Haden’s son Josh, a former Restless Records Artist with the band Spain, lends his voice to the ballad “Spiritual” and Ruth, a former Verve recording artist, sings the Irish ballad “Down by the Salley Gardens.” Daughters Petra, Tanya, and Rachel are also showcased: Petra is a former member of the Decemberists, Rachel was a founding member of indie-rock group The Rentals and is on tour with Todd Rundgren and Tanya plays in several independent bands around Los Angeles.
Along with jazz partner Pat Metheny, Haden’s friends making an appearance include Vince Gill, Bruce Hornsby, Ricky Skaggs, Rosanne Cash, Elvis Costello, Dan Tyminski, Jerry Douglas, Sam Bush and others.
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…
