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…
Drummer Eric McPherson (left), pianist Fred Hersch and bassist John Hébert are set to release Live in Europe on Palmetto Records.
(Photo: John Abbott)Pianist Fred Hersch and his trio have a new disc, Live in Europe, set for release May 11 on Palmetto Records. Take a listen to “Newklypso (for Sonny Rollins),” a cut off the upcoming album.
Dedicated to one of the bandleader’s heroes, the composition merges a playful rhythm with some heady pianistic turns as the ensemble expounds on its own insular vocabulary.
“The trio has a shared language; by now we each contribute an equal part in what goes on musically during a performance,” Hersch said about playing with his troupe, which includes drummer Eric McPherson and bassist John Hébert.
For more information about Hersch’s recordings, visit his homepage. DB
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…