Feb 3, 2026 12:10 AM
In Memoriam: Ken Peplowski, 1959–2026
Ken Peplowski, a clarinetist and tenor saxophonist who straddled the worlds of traditional and modern jazz, died Feb. 2…
The debut Bluebird Jazz release from Brazilian-born, New York-based pianist/vocalist Eliane Elias, Kissed By Nature, is set for a Sept. 24 release. The 13-track album is comprised of 10 original vocal and instrumental compositions, a medley of two tunes by Brazilian songwriter Djavan and two remixes produced by the popular Brazilian DJ team BossaCucaNova.
While continuing to exercise her prowess as a top jazz artist, Elias expands her creative vision on Kissed By Nature by adding new textures, colors and shapes to her music. She delivers romantic ballads and upbeat, swinging numbers that are infused with Brazilian music influences.
“I wanted to make a record that could be listened to when you just want to relax,” Elias said. “Instead of creating an album of pianistic virtuosity, I set out to make music that is beautiful as well as artistically engaging.”
For most of the album, Elias works in a trio with bassist Marc Johnson and alternated between drummers Joey Baron and Paolo Braga. Randy Brecker appears on trumpet and flugelhorn on a couple of tracks, and Rick Margitza adds tenor saxophone to the mix.
Peplowski first came to prominence in legacy swing bands, including the final iteration of the Benny Goodman Orchestra, before beginning a solo career in the late 1980s.
Feb 3, 2026 12:10 AM
Ken Peplowski, a clarinetist and tenor saxophonist who straddled the worlds of traditional and modern jazz, died Feb. 2…
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Marsalis will, if he chooses to use it, have a strong voice in perpetuating his vision through a role in choosing his successors.
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