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 7, Rounder Records will releaseCorey Harris’ fourth studio album, Downhome Sophisticate. Recorded in Charlottesville, Va., and co-produced by Harris and frequent collaborator Jamal Millner, Downhome Sophisticate marks the blues-influenced singer/songwriter’s Rounder Records debut and first studio recording since 2000’s collaboration with pianist Henry Butler, Vü-Dü Menz.
Drawing on a diverse range of traditional music—from African guitar styles, sounds of the Caribbean, and country blues of the American South—Downhome Sophisticate explores a unique and refreshingly modern approach to roots-based music. Backing Harris on the album is his longtime band - The 5x5 (Vic Brown - bass, Johnny Gilmore - drums, Jamal Millner - vocals, guitar, mandolin).
Harris will also be featured in Martin Scorsese’s upcoming six-part PBS mini series, “The Blues.” Set to air in the winter of 2003, each episode of “The Blues” will be directed by acclaimed filmmakers such as Charles Burnett, Marc Levin, and Wim Wenders (Scorsese himself directs Corey’s episode; the first installment of the series).
For more information, go to www.coreyharrismusic.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…
