New Music Monday—Miles Davis, Bob Mintzer & the WDR Big Band, and Altoizm

Join Arturo Gómez on Monday, July 5 at noon as he debuts the following recordings among others:

Miles Davis: “Merci Miles!”
Since his first arrival to Paris in 1949. Miles loved France and France loved him back! Miles began playing in the Parisian jazz clubs, then in festivals around the country leading up to performing in the biggest and most prestigious concert halls. In the Summer of 1991, Davis returned to France for the last time with a sextet that featured Kenny Garrett on the saxes. Miles’ appearance at the Vienne Festival on July 1, 1991, was recorded but never released until now, 30 years later. Sadly, when Davis returned to the USA he was hospitalized and passed away in September.

Bob Mintzer & WDR Big Band: “Soundscapes”
Mintzer has previously recorded with the WDR Big Band of Cologne, Germany as the leader of his group, The Yellowjackets. This time Bob conducts the orchestra through 10 of his compositions as well as contributing his saxophone and the EW to the music. Following the legendary Duke Ellington example, all of the songs were written specifically for the band’s soloists with one exception, the last entry “VM” which was composed for Bob’s fellow arranger/composer Vince Mendoza.

Altoizm: “Altoizm”
This is the debut of the 3 alto saxophone sextet for the new Afar Music label. The 3 altoists are Sharel Cassity, Rajiv Halim, and Greg Ward all based out of Chicago. The Windy City rhythm section is Richard D. Johnson-piano, Jeremiah Hunt-bass, and Michael Piolet at the drums. All seven songs are originals with each alto saxophonist taking turns at penning the tunes.

Every Monday from Noon until 1pm, I debut the latest arrivals to KUVO Jazz, often ahead of their regularly scheduled release date. In addition to the music, I’ll provide a few tidbits about the artist in particular if it’s a new or up and coming artist.

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