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 March 31, the venerable Swiss label Hat Hut celebrated its 35th anniversary in business.
Recent releases from the label include the Clusone 3’s Soft Lights And Sweet Music, Seven Compositions (Trio) 1989 from Anthony Braxton and Crackleknob from the trio of Mary Halvorson, Reuben Radding and Nate Wooley.
Label founder remains committed to advancing the cause of improvised music. “Despite the label’s many successes and strong critical reputation, after all these years it has become increasingly more difficult to sell ‘the music of the future,’” he said in an e-mail. “It is our hope to be able to continue on our path for many more than 35 years. There is more ‘music for the future’ which waits to be discovered and released.”
More info: hathut.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.
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…
