A fantastic return for former Clarion Fracture Zone frontman Tony Gorman after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis in 1997. The eight clarinet pieces here feature Gorman's hypnotic playing with frequent backing from the subtle hum of Alister Spence on synth. The title says it all - these are well and truly songs of hope.
WA's most famous jazz export, tenor Jamie Oehlers, teams with Melbourne pianist Sam Keevers in a duo format reminiscent of some of the all-time greatest pairings. Grace's original compositions represent a fusion of individual eclectic tastes, and personifies the freedom, intensity, and use of space that the duo format creates.
Keeping the Standards Mark Isaacs 2004 [Vorticity]
Recorded live at The Basement in Sydney, this record evolved from necessity in the face of limited options. Pianist Isaacs has a measure of international notoriety through his own compositions, but faced with performing a gig in Finland with two musicians he hadn't played with previously, Isaacs turned to standards with compelling results.
Tales of Time and Space Paul Grabowsky 2004 [Sanctuary]
In the artist's own words: "My tribute to NYC, my favourite place after Melbourne." Pianist Grabowsky has gained notoriety at home and abroad, this time out teaming with the likes of Branford Marsalis and Joe Lovano, as well as OzJazz trumpeter Scott Tinkler. A straightahead mix of old and new, with some nice shades of trad and bop.
Live Tinkler/Rex/Grabowsky/Edie 2005 [ORiGiN/Shock]
Adventurous freeform trumpeter Scott Tinkler finds himself in a quartet for the first time in a decade. A terrific live set that is attracting rave critical reviews, the other OzJazz heavyweight here is pianist Paul Grabowsky. The Philip Rex/Ken Edie rhythm section rounds out the lineup on this brilliant, if sometimes challenging record.
Entrée Mark4 2005 [Jazzgroove]
Led by bassist Mark Harris, Mark4's Entrée is without a doubt one of the most exciting recent releases from fledgling label Jazzgroove. Bop, ballads, swing and groove all feature here - with a topnotch lineup that includes pianist Matt McMahon and guitarist James Muller. Another winner from a label that is shaping as a real force in OzJazz.
Aronas play a kind of "punk jazz" that is an inventive blend of funky dance grooves, electronica and South Pacific-influenced melodies. Keyboardist Aron Ottignon leads the way, with solid support from the Evan Mannell/Josh Green rhythm section. The hard-rocking 'Monkey Intense' may leave more than a few jazz purists a bit puzzled.
Plays the Music of Mike Nock Jazzgroove Mothership Orchestra 2006 [Jazzgroove]
Sydney's Jazzgroove is an artists' collective that supports its own record label. This ambitious project brings together 16 of the best playing the music of Mike Nock - a legendary Kiwi pianist who has been involved in the OzJazz scene since the 1960s. A diverse set with some tight arrangements, as well as space for improvisation.
