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…
New York-based trumpeter Peter Evans has released his debut as a leader on The Peter Evans Quartet (Firehouse12). The disc features seven of his compositions.
Evans said that the quartet’s music reflects, “a combination of influences that are near and dear to all the members of the group—the great recorded jazz of the ‘50s and ‘60s, abrasive noise, wild and kinetic free improvisation—to give the listener something searing, intense and honest.”
Along with the trumpeter, the band consists of guitarist Brandon Seabrook, bassist Tom Blancarte and drummer Kevin Shea.
“We are forcing our kinetic playing styles through the usually very difficult notation rather than seeking a comfortable relationship with it,” Evans said.
For more details go to firehouse12.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…
