30 Albums For 30 Years (1964-1994)

Donald Vega, a celebrated jazz pianist and composer from Nicaragua, continues to captivate audiences with his musical brilliance. His latest album, As I Travel, has garnered a Grammy nomination for Best Latin Jazz Album, showcasing his original compositions. Vega’s meticulous approach shines through, blending intricate grooves with masterful arrangements that offer structure and creative freedom to his ensemble, featuring John Patitucci, Lewis Nash, and Luisito Quintero.  In addition, Vega recently released All Is Merry and Bright, a festive Christmas album recorded with Clovis Nicolas and Pete Van Nostrand. This project, born from spontaneity and inspired by jazz greats, highlights Vega’s ability to reimagine timeless classics with fresh, vibrant interpretations.

S4-Ep.3 The Supremes Sing Holland–Dozier–Holland (Motown)

Release Jan 23, 1967, and Recorded 1964-1966

The Supremes Sing Holland–Dozier–Holland is a standout album that showcases the magic between The Supremes and the iconic Motown songwriting and production team Holland-Dozier-Holland (HDH). Released at the peak of their popularity, the album features classic hits like "You Keep Me Hangin' On" and "Love Is Here and Now You're Gone," reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100. These tracks highlight Diana Ross's powerful vocals, backed by the impeccable musicianship of Motown's Funk Brothers. The album blends sophisticated pop with emotional storytelling, driven by HDH’s signature sound—tight harmonies, lush orchestrations, and an infectious rhythm. While the album is more a collection of singles than a cohesive concept, its polished sound and universal appeal helped solidify The Supremes as pop and R&B icons. Despite internal group tensions, including Florence Ballard’s eventual departure, their collaboration with HDH remains a cornerstone of Motown’s legacy.

Signature Track "You Keep Me Hangin' On,"  "Love is Here and Now You're Gone," "It's The Same Old Song"

Playlist YouTube Playlist, Spotify Playlist 

Full Album Full Album on YouTube,   Full Album on Spotify

S4-Ep.2 The Monkees-More of the Monkees (Colgems) 

Released January 9, 1967. Recorded June 25 – November 23, 1966

More of the Monkees is the second studio album by The Monkees, which features a mix of pop-rock and folk influences. The album showcases the group’s emerging sounds, which had very little to do with the Monkees themselves. The manufactured group mainly performed songs by top songwriters as singers, while some of the most talented studio musicians handled the best.  More of the Monkees captured the sounds of pop music of the era with its catchy melodies and upbeat tunes. The album's themes often revolve around love and relationships; the album's commercial success solidified The Monkees' place in pop culture and set the stage for the Monkees to have enough clout to demand more creative control. What you get with this album is some finely crafted songs written by talented songwriters and performed by skilled session musicians.  Members sing the songs of the Monkees, and each has a distinct voice.

Signature Track "Mary, Mary," ("I'm Not Your) Stepping "Stone, "I'm A Believer"

Playlist   YouTube Playlist,  Spotify Playlist 

Full Album Full Album YouTube  Full Album on Spotify 

S4-Ep.1 The Doors-Self-Titled Release (Elektra)

Released January 4, 1967, Recorded August of 1966 Elektra Records 

The Doors is a groundbreaking debut album that blends rock, blues, jazz, and psychedelia with a unique poetic sensibility, largely driven by Jim Morrison’s dark, introspective lyrics. Recorded in just six days, the album features a distinctive sound, notably Ray Manzarek’s Vox Continental organ, Robby Krieger’s flamenco-inspired guitar work, and John Densmore's jazzy drum style. Key tracks like "Light My Fire," with its iconic organ riff and extended solos, and "Break On Through (To the Other Side)," with its rebellious energy, set the stage for the band’s rise to fame. The album’s fusion of musical styles, alongside Morrison’s mysticism and philosophical themes, made it an instant classic, peaking at #2 on the U.S. charts. While not all tracks are equally memorable, The Doors established the band as one of rock music's most innovative and influential forces during the 1960s.

Signature Tracks Discussed "Light My Fire," "Break On Through (To The Other Side)"   "The End" 

Playlists: YouTube Playlist, Spotify Playlist 

Naomi Moon Siegel              

Naomi Moon Siegel is an award-winning trombonist, improviser, composer, and educator committed to creating a positive, transformative music culture beyond conventional genre norms. Her original musical vocabulary draws on the richness of various global musical traditions.

Siegel explores the trombone as a vehicle for sonic expression colored by breath, spit, and physicality. A longtime collaborator with Wayne Horvitz, Siegel has performed with such luminaries as Jessica Lurie, Matthew Golombisky, Carmen Staaf, March Fourth Marching Band, Allison Miller, Julian Priester, The California Honeydrops, Martha Scanlan, Stuart Dempster, Skerik, and Thione Diop. With saxophonist Kate Olson, Siegel formed the folk punk jazz duo Syrinx Effect, which has released four albums and performed around the United States.

Siegel is a recipient of Chamber Music America’s Performance Plus Grant, Jazz Journalists Association’s Jazz Hero Award, Montana Art Council’s Artist Innovation Award, and Earshot Jazz’s Golden Ear Award for Emerging Artist of the Year.

Siegel is an adjunct professor of trombone at the University of Montana and a dedicated music educator. Siegel is also a staunch advocate for intersectional gender justice in jazz and music settings, leading workshops to build awareness and work towards positive systemic shifts in our music culture.

Warren Wolf’s History of the Vibraphone pays tribute to 11 legendary vibe players, including Lionel Hampton, Gary Burton, and Dave Samuels, presenting a deep dive into the vibraphone’s jazz legacy. Starting in classical music under his vibraphonist father’s guidance, Wolf trained on vibraphone, marimba, xylophone, drums, and piano from a young age in Baltimore. Influenced by his dad’s extensive jazz record collection and the local organ trio jazz scene, he eventually studied under Dave Samuels at Berklee, where he later taught. Wolf’s rich blend of early classical rigor and exposure to jazz and R&B shaped his style, which now spans swing to fusion. 

In History of the Vibraphone, Wolf performs each track as an homage to original artists, joined by saxophonist Tim Green, pianist Alex Brown, bassist Vicente Archer, and drummer Carroll “CV” Dashiell III. Standout selections like Gary Burton's “Captain Señor Mouse” and Samuels’s “Spring High” reflect Wolf’s influences and his mission to celebrate lesser-known vibes players. Currently a professor at Peabody Conservatory, Wolf remains dedicated to jazz education. Baltimore’s thriving scene is central to his work, with venues like Keystone Korner and An Die Musik hosting vibrant jam sessions. Wolf's upcoming tour hints at a possible sequel to this record, potentially honoring Red Norvo, Tito Puente, and Mike Mainieri. ⁠https://njjs.org/⁠

https://www.warrenwolf.com/

History of the Vibraphone https://open.spotify.com/album/0raNJZzMHYyOr9R398NJ3E?si=CkIRJL2-Rm2iFwruCESL-Q

Charlie Burnham Interview

Charlie Burnham is an accomplished American violinist, singer, and composer celebrated for his imaginative and eclectic style. Burnham traverses multiple genres, including bluegrass, folk, free jazz, blues, classical, and chamber jazz. His innovative use of the wah-wah pedal on the violin adds a distinctive flair to his performances. Burnham first gained prominence through his contributions to James "Blood" Ulmer's Odyssey album, highlighting his versatility and skill. The ensemble from that project later formed Odyssey the Band. Throughout his career, Burnham has been a pivotal member of several notable groups and artists, like Living Colour, Cassandra Wilson,  String Trio of New York, 52nd Street Blues Project, Hidden City, We Free Strings, the Improvising Chamber Ensemble, and the Kropotkins. He has also recently recorded new music with Eureka Shoes, showcasing his continual evolution as a musician.

Beginning as an informal gathering of friends and now blossoming into a fully-fledged collaborative band, Eureka Shoes’ Beautalina (Adhyâropa ÂR00079) soars aloft on gorgeous 3-part harmonies, delicate acoustic textures, and world-class songcraft. Eureka Shoes features award-winning songwriter Jean Rohe, acoustic music stalwart Skye Soto Steele, and omni-genre multi-instrumentalist Charlie Burnham. Rounded out here by the virtuosic bass of Rashaan Carter, Beautalina is an enduring testament to the power of music to unite, communicate, and elevate.

Eureka Shoes Beautalina

https://open.spotify.com/album/1bH16X7J5KU6YNJgDbEVL2?si=t0YsU9C7RVehdGdwc6hpdg

Kurt Rosenwinkel, a Philadelphia-born jazz guitarist, is renowned for blending genres and using guitar effects innovatively in jazz. His latest release, The Next Step Band (Live at Smalls, 1996), revisits the music from his acclaimed 2001 album The Next Step and features longtime collaborators Mark Turner, Ben Street, and Jeff Ballard. In addition to his album, Rosenwinkel has published Kurt Rosenwinkel’s Ultimate Book of Compositions, which includes scores, tabs, and commentary on his extensive work. He founded his label, Heartcore, in 2016 to release Caipi and take control of his career, likening the label's creation to playing a "record company" video game. His current projects include arranging for the Jazz at Lincoln Center Big Band, collaborating with Wynton Marsalis, and recording a Brahms interpretation following the success of The Chopin Project.

Summary 

Brian Bromberg, a virtuoso bassist, honors the legacy of Scott LaFaro with his latest album, LaFaro, and a series of live performances. LaFaro, who tragically died at 25, was a groundbreaking bassist with the Bill Evans Trio, inspiring Bromberg's tribute. Initially reluctant to take on the project due to the pressures of honoring a jazz legend, Bromberg eventually embraced it after realizing LaFaro's profound influence on his playing. Bromberg also shares personal connections to jazz greats like Stan Getz, with whom he played, and Bill Evans, a missed opportunity from his youth. His career spans collaborations with top artists and an eclectic solo catalog ranging from traditional jazz to contemporary styles. Known for his versatility on upright and electric bass, Bromberg defies genre boundaries, seeking to deliver heartfelt, high-quality musicianship in every project. His performances and music continue to celebrate innovation and jazz's rich history. https://njjs.org/magazine/

Mike Torres is a guitar student of host Jay Sweet and a Vietnam veteran (Air Force). In this discussion, Mike talks about the impact of music during the war and the songs that meant the most to him.

Mike's List of Songs:  

1. Sky Pilot The Animals

2. After the Gold Rush.  Neil Young

3. Longer Boats.  Cat Stevens (In memory of my good friend Tom Pat Widmer

RIP)

4. Miles From Nowhere.  Cat Stevens

5 Pride of Man.  Quicksilver Messenger Service

6 Stairway to Heaven.  Led Zeppelin

7. Easy Livin. Uriah Heep

8. Any Eagles or Pink Floyd

9. Money. Pink Floyd

10. Smoke on The Water -Deep Purple

11. We're an American Band. Grand Funk Railroad

12. As Long as I Can See The Light. CCR

13. Free Bird. Lynyrd Skynard

14. Radar Love. Golden Earring. (This was our shop's standard)

15. My Woman From Tokyo. Deep Purple

30- The Who -A Quick One  (Reaction Records in the UK and Decca in the U.S )

Released December 9, 1966, Recorded August 30- November -1966

The Who's A Quick One (1966) is the band's second studio album and marks a significant step in their evolution. The album showcases the individual songwriting talents of each member: Pete Townshend, Roger Daltrey, John Entwistle, and Keith Moon, with Townshend emerging as the standout composer. The title track, "A Quick One, While He's Away," is a nine-minute mini-opera that foreshadows Townshend's later work on Tommy and is a clear highlight of the album. Known for its eclectic mix of styles, the album reached No. 4 on the UK Albums Chart but only No. 67 in the U.S. Despite not being universally considered their best work; the album was instrumental in solidifying The Who's reputation as one of the most innovative rock bands of the 1960s. The single "Happy Jack" also saw success, peaking at No. 3 in the UK and No. 24 in the US, marking the band's first significant American chart presence. A Quick One is significant for showcasing the growth of a band that would become one of the most celebrated in rock history.

Curated Spotify Playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7I6dzYc5UJfko8unziRMWf?si=02cb54f0a19e4e3c

Album on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/album/6f4mqM3RNAfO1t6XeeUa8P?si=hOzPkblNQOOI_qBFxhiXvw

Album on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL47ACAF82B659E0AE&si=0i0zYZV_fSunEtx2

Buster Williams, a legendary jazz bassist, composer, and instructor, has played on numerous records with iconic musicians like Herbie Hancock, Chet Baker, Art Blakey, and Stan Getz, among others. Known for his work as both a sideman and a bandleader, Williams continues to inspire audiences with his performances and compositions.

On September 28th, he will perform with his quartet at the Middlesex County Jazz Festival in New Brunswick. The quartet features Lenny White on drums, Steve Wilson on saxophone, and Brandon McCune on piano. The concert will showcase a repertoire primarily composed of Williams' original compositions. Interest in Williams grew after the 2019 documentary "Buster Williams: Bass to Infinity" highlighted his extensive career and personal journey. Now 82 years old, Williams remains dedicated to his craft, continually exploring the "infinite possibilities" of music. https://middlesexcountyjazzfestival.org/

https://busterwilliams.com/

(S3-#29) Cream- Fresh Cream  (Reaction) 

Released December 9, 1966. Recorded July-November 1966 

Cream, formed in 1966, was one of the first supergroups. It consisted of three highly regarded musicians from the British blues and rock scenes: Eric Clapton (guitar, vocals), Jack Bruce (bass, lead vocals), and Ginger Baker (drums). Their debut album, Fresh Cream, released on December 9, 1966, blends blues covers and original compositions, showcasing the band's blues roots and groundbreaking sound.

Fresh Cream includes a mix of original songs and blues standards like "Spoonful," "Rollin' and Tumblin," and "I'm So Glad." The album succeeded commercially, reaching number 6 on the UK charts and 39 in the US. Notable tracks include "I Feel Free," featuring strong vocal harmonies, and "Toad," one of the earliest rock tracks to feature a drum solo.

Following the album's release, Cream quickly became one of the most influential bands of the late 1960s, known for their virtuosic performances and innovative blend of blues, rock, and psychedelic music. Despite their success, internal tensions led to the band's breakup in 1968, after which each member pursued a successful solo career. Cream's legacy endures as a pioneering force in rock music history.

Curated Spotify Playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7I6dzYc5UJfko8unziRMWf?si=0b46147790924bfb

Album on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/album/6iyKqDoL9pRSHUsDBYemlB?si=w0brXwJpR7SYxs1uN2-NkA

Album on YouTube https://youtu.be/tsrmxWcodd0?si=iFbTG0RAwPPcQ6d1

#28-Buffalo Springfield-Self-Titled 

Original Released October or December 1966? Without “For What It’s Worth,” then Re-released in March 1967 - Recorded between July 18-September 11-1966 (ATCO) 

Buffalo Springfield's self-titled debut album, initially released by Atco Records in late 1966, introduced the world to the band's distinctive blend of folk, rock, country, and psychedelia. The original release, recorded between July and September 1966, lacked a major hit but gained significant attention after a March 1967 re-release added the protest anthem "For What It's Worth." Inspired by the Sunset Strip riots, this song became a defining track of the 1960s.

The band was formed in Los Angeles in 1966 and featured Stephen Stills, Neil Young, Richie Furay, Bruce Palmer, and Dewey Martin. Their music was marked by rich harmonies, shifting lead vocals, and layered guitar work. The album's tracks explore themes of self-reflection and relationships, with standout songs like "Nowadays Clancy Can’t Even Sing" and "For What It's Worth."

Despite their brief existence, Buffalo Springfield made a lasting impact on music. Internal conflicts and lineup changes led to their breakup in 1968. Afterward, members pursued successful careers: Stills with Crosby, Stills & Nash, Young as a solo artist, and Furay with Poco. Their legacy remains as pioneers of a sound that influenced rock music for years.

Full Album YouTube  : https://youtu.be/1eD-8NTwP9I?si=omLhl8gszwcGg-hI

Full Album Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/track/1qRA5BS78u3gME0loMl9AA?si=f5a282e8f75c4b46

Curated Playlist Spotify: 

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7I6dzYc5UJfko8unziRMWf?si=4559f6bc82dc47e3

The Kinks -Face to Face

Released October 28, 1966.Recorded mainly from mid-April to June 1966, except “I’ll Remember” (October 1965).  (Pye Records in the UK and Reprise in the US)

Face to Face (1966) by The Kinks marked a major shift in the band's style, moving from their earlier harder-driven sound to a more nuanced blend of baroque and pop music hall influences. This was the first album to feature only Ray Davies' compositions, showcasing his observational and satirical songwriting, which explored themes of English culture, social class, and personal struggles. Despite containing the hit single "Sunny Afternoon," the album initially received a lukewarm reception, particularly in the U.S. However, it has since gained critical acclaim and is now seen as pivotal in The Kinks' evolution. Notable tracks include "Party Line," "Dandy," “Little Miss Queen of Darkness,” and "Too Much on My Mind," with the album reflecting the band's growing maturity and experimentation. Face to Face is considered a milestone in 1960s rock, setting the stage for The Kinks' future successes.

Spotify Link To Album https://open.spotify.com/album/1SbqioSVe6TgXudiKMKEaB?si=svhTQE_sSbSRoeUWb2Y7og

YouTube Link to Album https://youtu.be/AhblfjqfF4c?si=1jo85drAPxAj80n4

Curated Playlist

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7I6dzYc5UJfko8unziRMWf?si=3ca8897e2d7a43ff

Alvester Garnett Interview

Alvester Garnett is a top-tier jazz drummer, celebrated for his swing, passion, and professionalism. His career began in Richmond, Virginia, where early influences included Ellis Marsalis and the jazz program at Virginia Commonwealth University. After moving to New York, Garnett quickly made a name for himself, working with legends like Betty Carter and Abbey Lincoln. He was the only drummer from the Thelonious Monk competition invited to Betty's Jazz Ahead program, which launched his career. Garnett has since collaborated with notable artists such as Pharoah Sanders, Dee Dee Bridgewater, and Benny Golson. He also became the regular drummer for violinist Regina Carter, who later became his wife.

In September, Garnett will lead his band, The Artworks Ensemble, at the Central Jersey Jazz Festival in Somerville, NJ. The performance will feature original compositions and include special guest trombonist Papo Vázquez, alongside Bruce Williams, Charlie Sigler, Brandon McCune, and Santi Debriano. This performance highlights Garnett’s ongoing commitment to jazz and his ability to blend leadership with collaboration.

Alvester Garnett will lead his band, The Artworks Ensemble, at the Central Jersey Jazz Festival on September 15th in Somerville, NJ. The performance will feature original compositions and include special guest trombonist Papo Vázquez, alongside Bruce Williams, Charlie Sigler, Brandon McCune, and Santi Debriano.

https://centraljerseyjazzfestival.com/

#S3-26 Simon and Garfunkel -Parsley, Sage, Rosemary, and Thyme 

Released October 24, 1966- Recorded Between December 1965 and August 1966 (Columbia Records) 

Parsley, Sage, Rosemary, and Thyme is Simon & Garfunkel's third studio album, showcasing a blend of folk-rock, acoustic, and introspective songs. It includes classic tracks like "Homeward Bound" and "Scarborough Fair," as well as the lesser-known hit "The Dangling Conversation." The album highlights Paul Simon's songwriting craftsmanship, thought-provoking lyrics, and innovative arrangements, perfectly complemented by the duo’s harmonies. This record marked a significant evolution in their music. It expanded the possibilities of folk-based music, influencing future songwriters and reinforcing Simon & Garfunkel's enduring legacy in music history.

YouTube Playlist https://youtu.be/V1IRDT8TInY?si=euk08ojJWSIo0qnX

Spotify Playlist https://open.spotify.com/album/1sh32o99zA04PJIUJUpEj7?si=VXKahQuvRLacGUM34ge1Qw

Curated Season Playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7I6dzYc5UJfko8unziRMWf?si=570634dc82084781

https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLqkHb3duD6BTd4l7sJzo2RPeMTpYmqZqU&si=EJPbzwpx6tcGWk1_

(S3-25) The 13th Floor Elevators - The Psychedelic Sounds Of The 13th Floor Elevators (International Artists Label)

Released October 17, 1966, Recorded between January 3rd and October 11, 1966 

Formed in Austin, Texas, in December 1965, the 13th Floor Elevators were pivotal in the psychedelic rock movement. Their debut album, The Psychedelic Sounds of the 13th Floor Elevators (1966), is noted as one of the first to describe its music as "psychedelic." Featuring the hit single "You're Gonna Miss Me," the album blended raw garage rock with folk blues and surreal elements. Roky Erickson's gritty vocals, Stacy Sutherland's reverb-drenched guitar, and Tommy Hall's electric jug playing created a distinctive sound that influenced many future musicians. Despite commercial challenges and internal struggles, the band's innovative approach significantly impacted the evolution of rock music, helping shift it from pop roots to a more artistic expression.

You Tube (Full Album) https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLL-NbN8uTOiiWCx_-GC5xB7BH2z5nTJ8m&si=zRBAvq614zAvu_d6

Spotify (Full Album) https://open.spotify.com/album/2afQ7u8n1CzNBAHjl6OQCG?si=fDrFC4cZT-6e26bbeHRzSA

Curated Playlist https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7I6dzYc5UJfko8unziRMWf?si=ba8099bd98b548af

#24-The Monkees-Self-Titled  (Colgems Record) 

Released October 10 and Recorded July 5-25

Formed in 1965 by television producers inspired by The Beatles' "A Hard Day's Night," The Monkees—Micky Dolenz, Michael Nesmith, Peter Tork, and Davy Jones—became a cultural phenomenon. Despite criticism for their prefabricated nature and reliance on studio musicians, their debut album, The Monkees, released on October 10, 1966, achieved commercial success. Featuring hits like "Last Train to Clarksville" and "(Theme From) The Monkees," the album showcased catchy pop-rock tunes that captivated a young audience. Blending humor and music, the Monkees' TV show further cemented their popularity. Despite internal tensions and the desire for creative control leading to changes and eventual disbandment in 1971, the group's legacy endured, with reunions and enduring fan appreciation. Notable tracks on the album include the folk-rock blend "Papa Gene's Blues" and the experimental "Sweet Young Thing."

#23- Otis Redding-Complete & Unbelievable: The Otis Redding Dictionary of Soul (Stax)

Released October 1966, Recorded May-September 1966 

Complete & Unbelievable: The Otis Redding Dictionary of Soul, recorded at Stax Recording Studios in Memphis, is a seminal work in Otis Redding's career and soul music. Produced by Jim Stewart, Isaac Hayes, and Booker T. Jones, the album features legendary Stax studio musicians like Steve Cropper, Donald "Duck" Dunn, Al Jackson Jr., Booker T. Jones, and the Memphis Horns. It includes standout tracks such as the iconic "Try a Little Tenderness," "Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa-Fa (Sad Song)," and "My Lover’s Prayer " along with covers like "Day Tripper" and "Tennessee Waltz," each showcasing Redding's dynamic vocal range and the band's tight, soulful arrangements. The album received critical acclaim, reaching #5 on the Billboard R&B chart and #73 on the Billboard 200, solidifying Redding's legacy as a master of soulful expression and musical innovation.

Full Album on YouTube https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLn1E4mv4x-I4oNQ0qlroeWXxa4lDD4Lj9&si=6SlxhnkIL8UdM3Ms

Full Album on Spotify https://open.spotify.com/album/25uNcuL4dAoV62eKmr8Q0Y?si=hK3DknToSX2TkN_3ggWDiA

Curated 1966 Playlist Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/7I6dzYc5UJfko8unziRMWf?si=a07e4d1e27944d00