Jim Hynes

1 week ago | glidemagazine.com | Jim Hynes

The fiddle-banjo duets of Rhiannon Giddens and Justin Robinson in “What Did the Blackbird Say to the Crow is a statement of defiance, a reunion, and a bold assertion of freedom all at once, without being the least bit overt. The two former members of the trio Carolina Chocolate Drops haven’t played together on record since Robinson left the group in 2011.

2 weeks ago | glidemagazine.com | Jim Hynes

Singer-songwriter Valerie June, who began her career as a blues singer, has moved pretty far away from that with her fourth album, Owls, Omens, and Oracles. Call it Americana, but there are heavy tinges of pop and indie, with lighter hints of gospel and neo-soul. Here, she explores the many aspects of love but celebrates the joy of being alive. Producer M.

2 weeks ago | glidemagazine.com | Jim Hynes

Gerald Clayton’s Ones and Twos is a two-part project; the first installment is revealed here. Clayton calls it an experiment inspired by the art of turntablism where the A side can be played simultaneously with the B side, that moment in the club when the DJ transitions from one song to the next when you hear two separate pieces simultaneously. Just the same, these twelve highly conceived pieces stand on their own. Later this year we will hear the overlaid pieces.

2 weeks ago | glidemagazine.com | Jim Hynes

Rather than provide detailed reviews of these never-before-released and/or reissued jazz recordings, we will summarize each in alphabetical order by artist, focusing on 18 titles, including others released close to Record Store Day. This group is a little short on never-before-released material and heavier on reissues. Most of these sets have terrific liner notes, historic photos, and remembrances from those who played with or admired the musicians.

3 weeks ago | glidemagazine.com | Jim Hynes

Earlier in his career, singer-songwriter-guitarist Seth Walker came across as a bluesman adorned in Americana clothing. He’s since evolved into one who lays down warm, infectious, relaxing grooves that integrate many strains of music for soothing listening. That approach is so evident on his latest Why the Worry. In short, he is one soulful cat with a smooth and warm voice. This is the fifth time that Walker has worked with co-producers Jano Rix and engineer Brook Sutton.