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…
On May 27, 482 Music will release Rolldown, Chicago-based vibraphonist Jason Adasiewicz’s debut as a leader and the 14th entry in the label’s ongoing Document Chicago series.
The release, which includes seven studio tracks and an eight-minute video, takes its name from Adasiewicz’s four year-old working band of the same name featuring Josh Berman (cornet), Aram Shelton (alto saxophone and clarinet), Jason Roebke (bass) and Frank Rosaly (drums).
“Composing pieces for Rolldown started with free improvisation on the piano,” said Adasiewicz, who wrote all the music during a year in Madison, Wisc. “The melodies are usually comprised of more than one voice and the tunes do not follow a chord progression, but were constructed using conventional ABA song form. Harmony is created spontaneously during the group’s improvisation, and the rhythm, while deeply rooted in the jazz tradition, at times pulls away from any suggestion of pulse.”
More info: 482music.com
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.
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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.
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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.
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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…
