Joe Fonda Quartet: Eyes On The Horizon (Long Song Records LSRCD163/2024)

Bassist Joe Fonda leads this ensemble and is the composer of its seven tracks, yet the spotlight shines on guest trumpeter Wadada Leo Smith. This recording is a tribute from Fonda to Smith, reflecting the profound influence Smith has had as a mentor. Four compositions are specifically dedicated to Smith, showcasing Fonda’s interpretation of the lessons learned from him, emphasizing Smith’s focus and holistic vision. The quartet also features the dynamic pianist Satoko Fujii and the unique drummer Tiziano Tononi, delivering a powerful collective performance.

The compositions blend composition and improvisation, allowing musicians to explore themes at different moments. Fonda explains, “What I composed is not necessarily a simple theme-solo-theme structure. It’s more like how Wadada inserts improvisations into written material.”

The opening track, Inspiration Opus #1, sets a compelling tone with Smith’s clear trumpet transitioning from resonant notes to rapid phrases, supported by fluid accompaniment. In contrast, My Song Opus #3 unfolds in a more subdued and mysterious manner, with Smith’s lyrical pleas soaring above. We Need Members Opus #4 draws inspiration from Fonda and Smith’s first encounter at a Creative Musicians Improvisers Forum session in New Haven during the early 1980s, where Smith was a founding figure. The track features a lively bass and piano introduction leading to a steady groove, with Smith’s soulful expressions emerging beautifully. The album culminates with the title track, where the quartet’s lines interweave, concluding in a contemplative manner.

Each of the seven pieces possesses a palpable energy, predominantly driven by Smith’s striking trumpet, yet it is a testament to the collective strength of the quartet.

Don Cherry & Okay Temiz: Music For Turkish Theatre 1970 (Caz Plak CAZLP009)

In this unexpected project, trumpeter Don Cherry collaborates with Turkish drummer Okay Temiz. The music was created for a play by American novelist James Baldwin, who found refuge in Istanbul during the 1960s. Baldwin worked with Turkish actor Engin Cezzar on an adaptation of a Canadian play about gay relationships in prison. While visiting Istanbul in 1969, Cherry met Baldwin and Cezzar and agreed to compose music for the production, which, despite being banned, ran for 103 performances.

The music, lasting just over 22 minutes, features Cherry on trumpet, piano, and flute, accompanied by Temiz’s dynamic drumming. Though episodic and lacking context, the music effectively conveys the dramatic intensity of the banned play, culminating in a four-minute finale that captures the vibrant essence of Istanbul.

Andrew Hill Sextet Plus 10: A Beautiful Day, Revisited (Palmetto Records 53957 22011)

A Beautiful Day represents Andrew Hill’s final major work before his later recordings. Captured live at Birdland in January 2002, this album features a sextet complemented by ten woodwinds and brass. The remastered version includes an extended 11/8 section and a revised title track. Critics initially noted a subdued performance, wishing for a smaller ensemble to highlight Hill’s playing. However, the strength of Ron Horton’s arrangements and the talents of musicians like saxophonist Greg Tardy and tuba player Jose D’Avila make this a remarkable big band album.

Roy Ayers: Ubiquity (Robinsongs ROBIN78T)

This collection features five albums from Roy Ayers Ubiquity, showcasing his pivotal role in jazz funk and its acid-jazz evolution during the mid-1970s. Known for his engaging compositions and vibrant vibraphone playing, Ayers produced a wealth of uplifting and soulful music during this prolific period.

Dan Blacksberg: The Psychic/Body Sound System (Relative Pitch Records RPRSS021)

This unique album presents a fully improvised solo trombone performance, recorded live without effects or overdubs. The Psychic/Body Sound System explores deep sub-bass drones, fiery free-jazz expressions, and poignant narratives, showcasing Blacksberg’s skillful trombone playing across various sonic landscapes.

Dave Manington’s Riff Raff: Weightless (Lamplight Social Records LSRDL35)

The latest release from Leeds-based Lamplight Social Records features bassist and composer Dave Manington, a prominent figure in the London jazz scene. His Riff Raff group includes talented musicians like pianist Ivo Neame and vocalist Brigitte Beraha, known for their collective improvisation and diverse compositional influences. The nine tracks are rich in detail and intensity, showcasing a vibrant musical landscape.