Jazz Matters February 2024
I would like to announce some changes to my shows and mixes starting this month. The updated aim is to enhance your listening experience and provide additional resources for those who crave deeper engagement with the music.
Streamlined Track Information: While I'll continue to provide essential details about the tracks played, I'm introducing a new approach for in-depth information. Dedicated blog posts on my website will offer comprehensive write-ups, complete with rich descriptions, photos, and insights for each track.
My mixes are also evolving. As my musical journey continues, I'm changing to selections that resonate with my musical taste. You'll hear a running order announcement at the beginning of each mix, with further exploration available on the blog posts.
Shows and Selection blogs will be linked directly in the playlist for your convenience.
I hope you embrace this fresh approach! Let's embark on this exciting new chapter together.
Enjoy the music I love.
Ray
Detroit Experiment - Space Odyssey
My show starts with a favourite of mine Space Odyssey that I often put into my playlist, I just adored this track from the moment I first heard it.
Detroit Experiment follows in the path of the Philadelphia Experiment, the Detroit Experiment is a multigenerational meeting of Motor City talent that casts its net far enough to include players from several fields of music. There are some genuinely electric and inspired moments scattered across the album, along with a few that are too tepid to generate much of a reaction, but the album is consistently laid-back and slickly executed throughout its entirety.
Recorded during a five-day stretch by Carl Craig (techno wizard and Innerzone Orchestra leader), Karriem Riggins (drummer and member of venerable hip-hop production team the Ummah), and Aaron Levinson, the album includes participation from Regina Carter, Bennie Maupin, Marcus Belgrave, Francisco Mora, Allan Barnes, Amp Fiddler, and several others. With a roster of people like that on board, you know it's going to be steeped in jazz; however, there are several moments that make it an eclectic affair.
After a great revamp of Belgrave's 1974 classic "Space Odyssey," the album opens up with a look at Donald Byrd's "Think Twice," which is radically overhauled as a relaxed, nocturnal house track, with soloing aplenty over the simple but leagues-deep rhythm. A transformation of Stevie Wonder's "Too High" is incredibly spacy, with Fiddler's voice often looming ominously over a spare arrangement. Originals like "There Is a God" (spotlighting Carter's sad but redemptive violin) and "Vernors" (a swaggering hip-hop instrumental with light additions from several of the instrumentalists) also add more colours.
Somewhat unsurprisingly, the references to Detroit are all but countless; they're in the song titles, they're in the actual songs, and they're also peppered throughout the lyrics of "The Way We Make Music" (female MC Invincible scores bonus points for throwing in the New Dance Show). Though it's dotted by some merely pleasant but unengaging work, the remainder makes this unique record fascinating for music fans of all ages.
Chip Wickham - Stratopheric
Chip Wickham has a two-chord modal approach to harmony. Chip hangs on one chord for a while, then you go up a half step and then back down to the original chord. It’s commonly thought Miles Davis was the first to use this back in the late 50s and early 60's.Saxophonist and flautist Chip Wickham takes us to a nice place with his most soulful album to date
Chip Wickham is a jazz musician and producer who divides his time between Spain, the UK and the Middle East and who has made a name for himself with a series of beautifully crafted solo albums that draw equally on the hard-swinging spiritual jazz of Roland Kirk, Yusef Lateef and Sahih Shihab, alongside the music of British jazz legends such as Tubby Hayes and Harold McNair and the more contemporary sounds of Jazzanova, Kyoto Jazz Massive and Robert Glasper.
Originally from Brighton, Chip studied in Manchester and became involved in the 00's UK jazz, soul. trip-hop and funk scenes, working with the likes of The Pharcyde, The New Mastersounds and Nightmares On Wax as well as playing with Matthew Halsall's Gondwana Orchestra. And his relationship with Gondwana Records goes right back to the very beginning as he played on Halsall's 2008 debut Sending My Love.
Tall bird – cherish
Swedish nu jazz duo Tall Bird has officially entered the music scene with their captivating debut single, "Cherish." This cool and melodic track marks the exciting beginning of their musical journey, offering a delightful soundscape worthy of exploration.
The creative force behind Tall Bird is a collaboration between artist and saxophonist Bear Garden (Martin Wirén) and film composer Petter Karlsten. What sets their music apart is the spirit of unbridled exploration and free expression. Their creative process thrives on the joy of discovery, unconstrained by preconceived notions. For Tall Bird, the journey of creation itself becomes the destination.
Their music seamlessly blends elements of jazz and film score, infused with a deep appreciation for indie folk and the UK jazz scene. This unique fusion results in a captivating instrumental sound that takes listeners on a melodic adventure.
Melodiesinfonie – Enjoy Your Life
Swiss artist Melodiesinfonie, also known as Kevin Wettstein, just dropped his third album, "A Journey Into You," on April 26th via Jakarta Records. Known for his love of hip hop and beatmaking, this LP shows him stepping out of his comfort zone, venturing into the realms of jazz and soul.
The jazz-fusion maestro, Melodiesinfonie (aka Kevin Wettstein), has blessed us with his latest album, "A Journey to You," released through Berlin/Cologne-based label Jakarta Records. This marks his third full-length album and his debut with Jakarta Records, following earlier releases on Soulection, Melting Pot Music, and Sichtexot. With a background in beat culture, "A Journey to You" unveils Melodiesinfonie's musical versatility and his knack for infusing live elements into his work.
Melodiesinfonie's musical roots trace back to his childhood, surrounded by mountains of jazz records at home. While his recent releases leaned more towards beats and hip-hop, "A Journey to You" pays homage to those early jazz influences. The album immerses listeners in long improvisational passages, woven with hypnotic grooves and instrumental lines, creating a seamless and delightful ambiance.
Although firmly rooted in jazz, the album explores a diverse musical landscape. Kicking off with a Latin South American shuffle in 'AO Longo Do Rio' (track 1), it smoothly transitions into groove-driven tracks like 'Enjoy Your Life' (track 2), then glides into downbeat soulful vibes with 'Words' (track 8), and finally, ventures into upbeat tropical-inspired tunes like 'Tropicololo' (track 10). While some transitions might feel abrupt, Melodiesinfonie's compositional skills and mastery of live sounds shine through.
The record is a tapestry of playful flute lines, Kamaal Williams-esque synths, lively double bass plucking, and soothing vocals, all held together by catchy percussive loops and beats. Melodiesinfonie's seamless blending of vocals adds a nice touch to the overall musical experience.
Lakecia Benjamin - New Mornings (Phoenix)
Phoenix' is the highly-anticipated, expansive new album from saxophonist and composer Lakecia Benjamin.
The album was produced by Terri Lyne Carrington and features a star-studded line up of special guests Dianne Reeves, Georgia Anne Muldrow, Patrice Rushen, Sonia Sanchez, Angela Davis and Wayne Shorter.
The band is composed of trumpeter Josh Evans, Victor Gould on keys, Orange Rodriguez on synths, drummer Enoch (EJ) Strickland, percussionist Nêgah Santos and bassist Ivan Taylor. Trumpeter Wallace Roney Jr, Rhodes organist Anastassiya Petrova and bassist Jahmal Nichols all join for one track each.
Kahil El'Zabar Ethnic Heritage Ensemble Dwight Trible David Ornette Cherry – Harvest Time (Harvest Time)
“Harvest Time” is the latest single from Spirit Gatherer - Tribute to Don Cherry, realised 25th January 2023 on SpiritMuse Records. Taken from the album that marks a milestone for the Ethnic Heritage Ensemble, which El’Zabar formed 50 years ago in Chicago, during that city’s most fertile era for the experimentalists collectively known as the AACM, the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians.
The main voice on this track is the one that if I could sing is the voice I would wish to have, as far as I’m concerned Dwight Trible's voice is a pure pleasure made of gold.
Artistically, Don Cherry was in the same postcode as Ethnic Heritage Ensemble, though he was literally on a different continent. A former member of Ornette Coleman’s groundbreaking band of the late 1950s and early 1960s, he was living in Sweden with his wife, Moki, and pioneering his own elixir of global integration under the banner of Organic Music Society. There’s real kinship to the world-fusion concept here, and plenty more when you hear Cherry’s “Degi-Degi” and El’Zabar’s “Don Cherry” on Spirit Gatherer.
“Harvest Time'' honours Sanders, another spirit seeker in music, who died last year at 81. While the original version is not readily available on most streaming platforms, you can find the 20-minute jam on his 1977 recording Pharoah, on India Navigation Records.
Espen Eriksen Trio and Andy Sheppard
For me this grouping of musicians is just astounding and I cannot tell you the amount of time I have spent being taken to such a nice place listening to their music. The trio members of Espen Eriksen Trio were born in the '70s, and Andy Sheppard in the '50s, and in different countries, the four musicians sound made for each other and have a near-telepathic rapport.
As on past trio albums, all of the pieces were composed by Eriksen himself and are ideal for the foursome. Sheppard never sounds like a bolted-on soloist but is a vital integral component of the ensemble sound and mood; when any of the others are soloing, he gives them centre stage.
Throughout the album, the sound and recording are exquisite, with every note played being easily heard and savoured. As has been true of past albums by the Espen Eriksen Trio, with or without Sheppard.
Camilla George – Ukponp
Camilla has been singing from the age of five years old and lived in Sweden. When she was ten she won a place in the prestigious Adolf Frederik Musik School in Stockholm
Camilla was in U.S. chart-topping Norwegian pop group 'One 2 Many' in her early twenties, then Trained as an operatic soprano, including a spell at the Metropolitan Opera in New York. She played the lead role, sung in Yiddish, in the world premier of The Dybbuk, in Tel Aviv.
By this time Camilla was living in London with her professional musician husband, Colin Vearncombe (pka Black). After her trip to South America to record an album with legendary percussionist Julio 'Chocolate' Algendones in Lima, Peru, the family decided to up sticks and move to West Cork in Ireland.
Camilla co-founded the band 'Dogtail Soup' with her husband Colin, Fergus O'Farrell (of Interference), and Maurice Seezer and played regularly in Ireland and they toured in Eastern Europe. She has also performed and recorded with Interference and opened for the Swell Season in The Radio City Music Hall.
Camilla's current two-hour stage show is performed in five languages and weaves stories of magic and mystery in between tangos and lullabies, gospel and blues.
Jasmine Myra – 1000 Miles
Jasmine Myra, a saxophonist, composer, and band leader based in Leeds, is a vibrant force in the city's diverse and creative music scene. Having honed her skills at Leeds Conservatoire, Jasmine has immersed herself in the company of some of the city's most promising young talents. Her original instrumental compositions exude a euphoric and uplifting quality, drawing inspiration from a range of artists including Kenny Wheeler, Bonobo, Ölafur Arnalds, and Moses Sumney. These influences contribute to the emotive resonance found in Myra's own musical creations.
In 2018, just a year after graduating, Jasmine earned her breakthrough by being selected for Jazz North Introduces, a program dedicated to supporting emerging jazz artists in the North of England. This pivotal moment propelled her into the spotlight, catching the attention of Matthew Halsall, the visionary behind Gondwana Records. Known for discovering talent like Gogo Penguin, Mammal Hands, and Hania Rani, Halsall recognized Myra's musical prowess and played a crucial role in bringing her work to a broader audience.
The Jakob Manz Project – Prospering
With their fresh and gripping sound, The Jakob Manz Project is one of the most successful bands of the young German jazz scene.
Super slick, super talented alto saxophonist Jakob Manz flies the flag here for funky jazz-rock. Not many other young Jazz bands are eliciting such storms of enthusiasm in their audience. No matter if club or big festival stage, the energy of this band permeates every concert venue up to the back corner and catapults its audience into their music world,
Their second studio album "The Answer" has a standout track for me, it's 'When Weasles Fly' with a charged up band powered by Paul Albrecht on drums it's easy to get into the zone,
Danny Keane - Afro Cello - Super Full Moon Rework
Danny's versatile expertise spans genres, solidifying his reputation as a sought-after musician, excelling in roles such as a performer, string arranger, and orchestrator. Notably, he has contributed his talents to Black Country artist Scott Matthews, Progressive Pop sensation Bat For Lashes, and Trip Hop pioneers Lamb.
Beyond these roles, Danny has left his mark as a session musician, musical director, producer, and film and radio composer. His diverse career has led him to collaborate with globally esteemed artists like Anoushka Shankar, Mulatu Astatke, Nitin Sawhney, Damon Albarn, Penguin Café, The Heliocentrics, and Charlie Winston, to name a few.
Having graced stages across every continent, Danny has experienced firsthand the universal language of music. It serves as a profound, intricate means of expression, transcending boundaries and discriminations. Music becomes a shared platform where individuals, regardless of background or socio-political stance, can articulate every facet of their social and intellectual selves.
Danny's musical journey culminates in the eagerly awaited release of his debut solo album, "Roamin'." This album intertwines a wealth of musical experience, showcasing collaborations with some of the world's finest artists.
William Eaton Ensemble - Keyenta Crossing
The William Eaton Ensemble's music resonates amid the enchanting landscape, light, and life of the northern Sonoran Desert—a harmonious blend of tradition and new exploration. Their melodic tapestry weaves together sounds from diverse origins, featuring William Eaton's unique stringed instruments like the harp guitar, spiral clef, o'ele'n strings, and lyraharp guitar. Claudia Tulip contributes with silver and indigenous flutes, while Allen Ame showcases his invented six-string violyra and violin. Mary Redhouse's five-octave native voice adds a distinctive layer, complemented by the ethnic-world percussion of Will Clipman and Keith Johnson.
The result is a collection of gracefully nuanced melodies presented in rich impressionistic arrangements, transporting listeners to the far reaches of the imagination.
William Eaton's recording journey took flight with "Carry the Gift," a collaborative gem with Native American flutist R. Carlos Nakai, released by Canyon Records in 1988. The Nakai/Eaton duo, originating in 1984, has proven to be a captivating synergy, gracing concerts across the U.S. and yielding six albums together. Notable among them are "Winter Dreams" in 1990 and "Ancestral Voices," a 1994 Grammy Awards Finalist for "Best Traditional Folk Album".
Eaton's collaborative spirit extends to other artists, evident in "Tracks We Leave" (1989), where he joined forces with Udi Arouh, Arvel Bird, Claudia Tulip, Rich Rodgers, and R. Carlos Nakai. "Wisdom Tree" (1992) features double bassist Edgar Meyer, alongside William Clipman, Robert Tree Cody, Arouh, Bird, and Tulip, enriching Eaton's musical journey with a diverse and captivating array of talents.
Joe Chambers - Dance Kobina (Dance Kobina)
Joe Chambers, a renowned jazz drummer, extends his artistry beyond the drum kit, showcasing his prowess as a composer and commanding multi-instrumentalist proficient in vibraphone, marimba, and piano. His impact on the jazz scene was profound during the 1960s as a Blue Note house drummer, contributing to numerous ground-breaking albums of the era, particularly Bobby Hutcherson's first ten albums, most of which featured Chambers' own compositions.
In the early seventies, Chambers expanded his musical journey, joining forces with Max Roach's M'Boom and collaborating with Charles Mingus. The acclaimed debut of his leadership, "The Almoravid," graced the scene in 1974, followed by the duo release "Double Exposure" with organist Larry Young in 1978. Notably, he led the quintet in the 1992 release "Phantom of the City."
Chambers' exploration continued with his Blue Note debut, "Mirrors," in 1998, followed by a shift to Savant and the release of the progressive jazz-funk album "Urban Grooves" in 2002. Subsequent releases, including "The Outlaw" in 2006 and "Joe Chambers Moving Pictures Orchestra" in 2012, showcased his evolving musical expressions.
A return to Blue Note in 2021 marked a triumphant homecoming for Chambers, leading a trio in "Samba de Maracatu" and taking the helm of a sextet in 2023 for the captivating "Dance Kobina." His journey through decades reflects an unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of jazz, leaving an indelible mark on the genre's evolution.
Huw Marc Bennett - Y Gwydd
Huw Marc Bennett, known as Susso, is a Welsh musician and producer making waves in London. His musical palette is a rich tapestry woven from influences like Tim Maia, Augustus Pablo, and Idris Muhammed, as well as the vibrant jazz scene in south-east London that he calls home.
With a languid and sultry sound, Susso seamlessly blends the modern with the vintage, taking listeners on a sonic journey that spans South London electronica, Brazilian groove, Nigerian Afrobeat, and Ghanaian Highlife. And, just to add a touch of whimsy, there's a dash of Welsh psychedelia in the mix.
Isobella Burnham – In Power
I cannot recommend this album of Isobella Burnham enough, I'm really taken by it and its on my portable music player being hammered at the moment, I love it. Isobella is a dynamic London-based Bassist, Vocalist, and Composer, hails from Barbados, where she absorbed the island's vibrant musical culture. Returning to London in January 2018, she quickly made her mark by playing bass for artists like Connie Constance, Tom Misch, Steam Down, and Sampa The Great. Her debut EP, "Dancin' Garuda," dropped in 2021, followed by her latest release, "Foam Under The Bridge," in July 2023.
Taking the London jazz scene by storm, Isobella has shared stages with local rising stars, solidifying her presence. In a conversation with Christine Hannigan, she shared insights into her musical journey and future plans.
Moving to London in 2018, Isobella wasted no time networking and building connections. Within a year, she toured with notable artists like Connie Constance, Poppy Ajudha, and Tom Misch, with her collaboration with Tom Misch opening doors and securing partial sponsorship with Cosmic Ears. Notably, she made appearances in videos for Fender and Andertons.
Isobella's versatility extends from recurring jam nights at Pure Vinyl Records in Brixton to playing with various bands. Balancing practice with breaks, she has become a sought-after session bassist, expanding her horizons. Embracing vocal opportunities, she has provided backing vocals for Connie Constance, Tom Misch, Steamdown, Ahnansé, and Poppy Ajudha, adding a new dimension to her musical prowess.
Malcolm Jiyane Tree-O – Moshe
Malcolm Jiyane, a bandleader and multi-instrumentalist, stands as a beacon among his peers in the vibrant world of jazz. Renowned for his generosity and knack for providing space for fellow musicians to shine, Jiyane is at the forefront of a remarkable generation of jazz artists in South Africa.
Operating seamlessly from the heart to the outskirts of the South African jazz scene, Jiyane, a skilled trombonist and pianist, possesses an enigmatic yet charismatic presence that electrifies his contemporaries. In his compositions, he skilfully guides fellow musicians through his musical vision, striking a balance between offering guidance and allowing them the freedom to infuse their interpretations.
Jiyane's debut album, "UMDALI," not only marks a significant addition to the jazz canon but also serves as a heartfelt homage to key figures who have played pivotal roles in his personal and professional journey. The album, a reflection of his personal circumstances during the recording, provides an honest and raw snapshot of Jiyane's artistic soul.
With the Malcolm Jiyane Tree-O at the helm, "UMDALI" is more than just a nod to the past; it is a pioneering work that blazes a trail towards the future of jazz. The trio's debut showcases a keen awareness of the genre's rich history while boldly pushing boundaries, solidifying Malcolm Jiyane's position as a dynamic force in the evolving landscape of jazz music.
Latrama – Sitaare
Latrama, La Já - Sedah
Latrama, a versatile producer, multi-instrument player, and DVJ hailing from Madrid, has undeniably been my most exciting personal discovery of 2023. His music is a source of pure joy for me, creating countless memories of the places I've ventured to while immersed in his captivating sounds.
Renowned as one of the foremost global mixers, Latrama skillfully blends traditional Indian and world music sounds with electronic breaks, crafting a unique sonic experience that transcends boundaries. His ability to seamlessly fuse cultural elements with modern beats sets him apart in the musical landscape.
Since the late '90s, Latrama has been an integral member of the Chandra Sound System collective, where he has passionately propagated his distinctive musical perspective. Whether through DJ residences, live performances, radio and TV ads, conferences, or collaborations as an Indian tabla player or remixer, Latrama has left an indelible mark.
His musical journey has spanned diverse locales, including Madrid, Berlin, Mumbai, London, Barcelona, Lisbon, Beijing, San Francisco, Luxembourg, and Amsterdam, to name a few. From intimate small clubs to grand festivals, Latrama has graced various stages, consistently showcasing his eclectic and inclusive approach to music. His influence extends beyond borders, leaving an indelible imprint on the global music scene.
Manu Katché - Keep On Trippin
Discovering the magic of Manu Katché's drumming was a pivotal moment for me while delving into a Peter Gabriel album in the late '80s. As his beats resonated through my ears, I couldn't help but seek out the name behind this extraordinary drummer, and since then, Manu Katché has consistently captivated me through various albums and YouTube channels.
Born in Paris in 1958, Katché's roots trace back to the Ivory Coast in Africa. He describes his drumming style as a fusion of African rhythm concepts, classical drumming, and the spontaneous interaction of jazz. This unique blend is a result of his studies in classical snare drum and kettledrum techniques, coupled with a deliberate embrace of his African heritage.
Katché gained global recognition through his collaboration with Peter Gabriel on the groundbreaking album "So" and the subsequent Amnesty International World tour alongside Gabriel, Sting, and Tracy Chapman. This catapulted him into the spotlight, leading to collaborations with musical luminaries such as Joni Mitchell, Robbie Robertson, Dire Straits, Simple Minds, Youssou N'Dour, Joan Armatrading, Joe Satriani, and many others.
His affiliation with ECM includes notable recordings with Jan Garbarek, including "I Took Up The Runes," "Twelve Moons," "Visible World," "In Praise of Dreams," and the live album "Dresden." Katché's debut as a leader for the label, "Neighbourhood," was recorded in 2004, followed by "Playground" in 2007, "Third Round" in 2010, and "Manu Katché" in 2012. His most recent album, "Unstatic," was released under Anteprima Productions in 2016, showcasing his enduring influence and mastery in the realm of drumming and music.
Quantic - The 5th Exotic - The 5th Exotic
Quantic, also known as Will Holland, is an outstanding British musician, producer, and DJ. He's all about crafting electronic, Latin, jazz, and soul tunes that soak up vibes from every corner of the globe. Currently, he is based in New York, he has spent some time soaking in the sounds along the Colombian Pacific Coast. His music is a mix of heritage with a modern flair, blending spontaneous musical genius with deep, thrilling tones.
The Brecker Brothers - African Skies (Out Of The Loop)
In the '70s, you had the dynamic duo of Michael and Randy Brecker leading a band filled with New York's musical heavyweights like David Sanborn, Don Grolnick, Will Lee, and George Duke, to name a few. When the Brecker Brothers Band decided to flex their musical muscles, they became a fusion force to be reckoned with – an intelligent and creative crew.
Randy, the chief composer and trumpeter, brought the heat with tunes that were like musical rollercoasters – structurally unpredictable, melodically intricate, and harmonically complex. Picture mind-bending bop heads riding the groove of funky rhythms with surgical precision.
Unlike a lot of jazz-funk of the time, the Breckers, especially on their debut record, didn't sell out. Sure, there was a hint of commercial appeal in 1975's "Back to Back," but it wasn't just a hit; it was a work of art. Their music was this brilliant mix of extended pop forms, killer jazz improv, and highbrow compositional wizardry.
As the years rolled on, maybe the temptation to chase record sales got a bit too strong, but even then, each album had its own nugget of substance. In the early '90s, RCA dropped a couple of compilation CDs that showcased the band's pure instrumental, jazz-infused gems.
The Brecker Brothers eventually called it quits in 1982, but they'd occasionally reunite for tours and laid down tracks for two albums under GRP – "Return of the Brecker Brothers" in 1992 and "Out of the Loop" in 1994. Chris Kelsey, you rock for capturing the essence of these jazz legends.
Ghjazz Collective - Nana fre me (Nana fre me)
Dive into the sonic world of The Ghjazz Collective, a jazz sensation that's been turning heads and especially mine (do check out this album - its worth a good listen) and capturing hearts with their daring, genre-blending magic. At the helm is the unstoppable Victor Dey Jr., a maestro on piano, synths, and keyboards. Supporting this musical wizardry are the talents of Bernard Gama Ayisa on saxophones, Frank Kissi on drums, and Gaddiel Amoah on bass guitar and contrabass. Together, they're not just a band; they're architects reshaping the landscape of jazz.
The Ghjazz Collective doesn't just play jazz; they redefine it. Their music is a fusion of different genres, seamlessly weaving traditional and contemporary jazz elements into a tapestry of innovation. Picture a musical journey where boundaries are mere suggestions.
These trailblazers have left a trail of electrifying live performances that resonate with audiences. The Ghjazz Collective isn't just a band; they're an experience, a sonic rollercoaster that solidifies their status as one of the most exciting and innovative acts in today's music scene.
Hold on to your seats because 2023 and 2024 are about to be owned by The Ghjazz Collective. Fans are on the edge of their seats, awaiting new releases and live shows that promise to be nothing short of musical extravaganzas. As they continue to redefine jazz and push artistic boundaries, The Ghjazz Collective stands tall as a formidable force in the ever-evolving world of jazz