Jazz

(Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Pat Metheny)

Schizo’d Bass: Free Juke Box

Armed with an upright bass, Vincent Guerin turns up and creates unexpected, monstrous sounds. Most musicians who use the classical bass often let the tone and make of the instrument take center stage. However, with Schizo'd Bass, the instrument is subjected to different electrical devices that transform its already huge sound into something deep, mystical and at times terrifying noise. Weird and eclectic, the sound this monstrous bass creates isn't for everyone but it definitely shows the power of the age-old instrument in the hands of its master.

Beats Antique: Collide

Collide by Beats Antique might be several years old but it has aged beautifully. The album combines a fusion of electronica with world beats created by two formidable artists. It's then topped off by the hypnotizing moves of belly dancer, Zoe Jakes. The main maestros behind this eclectic sound includes, David Satori and Tommy Cappel. Both artists come together from a host of different backgrounds, having performed at their own respective bands and and musical outfits. Together with Zoe Jake, Beats Antique creates an explosive fusion of Western hip hop style beats laced with an undeniable exotic flair.

BJ Block & Dawn Pemberton: II

Simply titled, II; BJ Block and Dawn Pemberton's second collaboration bears the same uplifting positive emotion and meaningful lyrics that has made their first effort, The Land of Make Believe, a success. They've continued the tradition of releasing this one for free as well and listeners are getting a chance to hear it first in Frostwire. Containing 9 soulful tracks, it bears the familiar sound of jazz, funk, R&B and gospel that has become a trademark for the feel-good, positive and chill vibe of their music.

Shy Guys vs Nurses

A downtempo, electro compilation filled with great bass lines and jazzy tones; this self-titled record from Shy Guys vs. Nurses makes for an intriguing listen. Recorded back in the 90s along with most of the releases from the group, the tracks are over a decade old. To date, it seems the band has only played one show at "The Factory in Bellingham, Washington on September 15, 2000." Even though they might not be around anymore, they did left a good footprint behind in the form of this classic, easy listening album.

Phototaxis: Pretty Ugly

Phototaxis is a special band that's made primarily of Yael Feldinger (lead vocalist and singer;) as well as Itay Tsuk (composer, arranger and pianist.) They're joined together by the talented crew of Nir Blum, Roy Cheled, Yael Geva and Neta Cohen Shani. The band is only a couple of years old, but they seem poised for success; having their debut record come out to critical praise in their home country of Israel. Fusing a lush set of tracks that echo jazz, blues and a trip hop atmosphere; Pretty Ugly is a strong record that aims to please its listeners and does it successfully.

Danny Sherwood: When My Ship Comes

With his melodic baritone voice and sweet piano playing, Danny Sherwood echoes the sultry and often somber mood of Morissey. Even the EP title sounds off a bit of melancholia from The Smiths. When My Ship Comes In is a lot like an afternoon lull after the heavy rain has passed. The short album only contains 5-tracks but the depth is beautiful and often mesmerizing. Already a songwriter at a young age, Sherwood shares intimate moments of self-reflection through his carefully written lyrics and catchy melodies.

The Black Sunn: Born Alone, Die Alone

Born Alone, Die Alone is a 2009 album from Florida-based rapper and musician, The Black Sunn. Produced by Mydus, the album contains 15 jammin' tracks that show off catchy beats and great lyrical poetry. According to the emcee, he wanted "to show the world that Baltimore has a voice that’s more than just drug dealing and murder..." He adds, "some people may not like that but I’m not one to hold back what I gotta say."