As usual, I enjoyed the wonders of contemporary jazz through numerous new albums this year. Among them, I would like to list the best albums that I personally listen to the most. Jazz has seen diverse developments, and while there are many other unforgettable works, I believe the following three albums are excellent choices that anyone can enjoy, and that capture the essence of today’s jazz.
#307 Brandon’s Trumpet Performance, Hot As Geothermal Heat
For The Love of It All / Brandon Woody
(Imported, Bluenote 00602475477754)
Among the young trumpeters who have gained attention in recent years, Brandon Woody stands out as the most outstanding. He was born in Baltimore and has mainly performed locally. His album “For The Love of It All” was released by the Bluenote label in May 2025. As the recording features members of the band “UPENDO,” which Brandon formed, we can say that this album presents “Brandon in everyday clothes,” with his incredible musical talent showcased in his performances.
Brandon’s trumpet performance showcases brilliant tones and the unique power and energy typical of black jazz musicians. Phrases as hot as geothermal heat erupt from his instrument and flow endlessly. His playing captures the essence of Freddie Hubbard, Woody Shaw, and Charles Tolliver from the past while also embodying a contemporary sense of balance. Each of his original compositions is a finely crafted piece that highlights Brandon’s modern approach to music. While the album highlights the four-member band’s sound, it is also distinctive for prominently showcasing the leader’s solo performances. You’ll find yourself listening to all six pieces in one go, starting with the opening track ＜Never Go Runaway,＞ which shows the band’s strong will, and concluding with the final track ＜Real Love Part 1.＞ They came to Japan right after the album’s release and put on a hot show at Blue Note. This album is the debut work of a talented young artist whose future is increasingly exciting.
#308 Sullivan Fortner’s New Album Featuring Fresh Approach
Southern Nights / Sullivan Fortner
(Imported, ARTWORK RECORDS ARTR0011CD)
Sullivan Fortner, a pianist born in New Orleans, consistently delivers performances filled with surprises. Improvised phrases that feel rooted in jazz tradition yet emerge with unpredictable twists. The carefully crafted harmonies and graceful movements of his hands possess a unique charm unlike anything seen before. This is Sullivan’s fifth leader album as a trio at age 38.
The title track, ＜Southern Nights,＞ begins with uplifting beats and evolves into comfortable, groovy sounds. This piece was composed by New Orleans-born pianist, renowned producer, and songwriter Allen Toussaint, capturing the essence of the album’s concept. In Cole Porter’s classic piece ＜I Love You,＞ he delivers a crisp, utterly innovative interpretation. In contrast, the Latin piece ＜Tres Palabras＞ conveys a profound poetic emotion. Every track possesses its own unique charm and sounds remarkably fresh, including the beautiful ballad ＜Again, Never＞ written by Bill Lee. ＜Southern Nights＞ conveys the idea that jazz piano continues to offer limitless possibilities for expression. The excellent recording, which you can feel as if you see Sullivan’s fingertips, is also particularly noteworthy.
#309 “Lady in Satin” Revived in Modern Times
Lady in Satin / Kandace Springs
(Imported, Outside in Music OUIA-2513)
＜Lady in Satin＞ is a masterpiece album by the unparalleled singer Billie Holiday, recorded in her final years. The album was recorded in 1959, the year before her death, when her health was declining, and her voice had lost some of its brilliance. However, Billy’s performance, coming from the depths of her soul, had a power that went beyond mere technique. Her unique singing voice captivated countless listeners with its irresistible allure. In 2023, 65 years after Billie’s recording, the talented singer Kandace Springs, renowned for her soulful voice, performed all the songs from “Lady in Satin” with deep respect for Billie.
Kandace, now 36, has been inspired by Billie, but she presents herself as a contemporary singer with deep, straightforward, and captivating vocals. Her album was recorded at “The Espinho Auditorium Academia,” located near Porto, a city in northern Portugal. Billie’s original featured a large orchestra, and Kandace’s recording also beautifully showcases an orchestra conducted by the young Diogo Costa, who backed her up. Kandace sings timeless ballads such as ＜You Don’t Know What Love Is,＞ ＜I’m a Fool to Want You,＞ and ＜But Beautiful＞ with deep emotion. Kandace’s ambition to tackle Billie Holiday’s classic album was impressive. However, what truly showcased her talent was her reinterpretation of it as a modern vocal work, distinct from Billie’s unique singing style.
About the Author
Masamichi Okazaki
Surrounded by various kinds of music from his childhood, Masamichi Okazaki joined Waseda University Modern Jazz Club. He started contributing articles to music magazines when he was a student. He covers wide range of music not only trad, modern and contemporary jazz, but also from pops to classics. He writes liner notes for CDs and LPs, and is a regular contributor to “JAZZ JAPAN,” “STEREO,” and others. He joined a big band, “Shiny Stockings,” as a saxophone player. He is a director of The Music Pen Club Japan (MPCJ).
