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…
Guitarist and vocalist Leni Stern’s return trip to Africa was intended as an opportunity for her to thank all of the musicians who worked on her latest album, Africa (ILSR), but it ended up a far more involved journey. The trip included concert performances and a recording session with Salif Keita, during which they covered U2’s “One,” with Stern on guitar and Keita on vocals.
Stern’s new disc was recorded in Africa, with African musicians, at the pace of African life. Two years in the making, the CD integrates African and Western music forms. “I want people to hear what Africa sounds like,” Stern said. “Africa deserves our respect, not just our mercy.”
Stern will be touring the country, below is a list of gigs:
Nov. 13: 55 bar, New York City
Nov. 21: Bowery Poetry Club, New York
Nov. 28: Freight and Salvage, San Francisco
Dec. 1: The Metropolitan Cafe, Los Angeles
Dec 5: 55 bar, New York City
Jan. 17: Scullers, Boston
Jan. 22: Yoshi’s, San Francisco
Feb. 12: University of Maryland, College Park, Md.
More info: lenistern.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…
