Liner Notes with David Bixler

For nearly forty years, trumpeter Joe Magnarelli has been a fixture on the New York City jazz scene, gracing the bandstands of icons like Brother Jack McDuff, Lionel Hampton, Toshiko Akiyoshi, and Harry Connick Jr. While playing with these legends, he continued to hone his skills in a variety of small groups, both as a sideman and a leader. His latest work, Concord, is a testament to that unyielding drive. The title, a word defined as "agreement or harmony between people or groups," is a fitting reflection of the music on this album. This new recording, his third for the SteepleChase label, finds Magnarelli in a quartet setting, featuring  pianist Victor Gould, bassist Paul Sikivie, and drummer Rodney Green.  

Ten years after his release Flip-Flop, John Yao returns with Points of Time, a new recording that showcases his significant growth as both a composer and improviser. The album draws inspiration from deeply personal experiences, specifically his wife's battle with cancer and the subsequent birth of their son after her recovery. Yao has brought together an exceptional group of some of New York City's top musicians, who not only perform his intricate compositions flawlessly but also contribute highly individualized and compelling solos to the project.  

Tenor saxophonist Rico Jones's debut recording, Bloodlines, is a thoughtful exploration of his Latino and indigenous heritage. Recorded live at Ornithology in Brooklyn, the album features Jones alongside guitarist Max Light, and veteran musicians Joe Martin on bass and Nasheet Waits on drums.   In this episode of LINER NOTES, Jones reflects on his quest for the Divine in his music as well as the significant input from the friends and family who have shaped this musical journey.  

Tenor saxophonist Rich Perry might be most recognized from his long term associations with both the Maria Schneider and Vanguard Jazz Orchestras, but where he truly shines is fronting his quartet with pianist Gary Versace, bassist Jay Anderson, and Vanguard band mate John Riley on drums and cymbals. In this episode of LINER NOTES we discuss the music and musicians on Progression, his fourth recording on the Steeplechase label with this line-up.