2xhd Jazz Ballads

A compilation of great ballads – many from the American songbook - sung by 2xHD’s best female jazz singers. For a bonus zing, an interpretation of John Lennon’s Oh, My Love by multi-instrumentalist Robert Len was included. This album is the perfect introduction to 2xHDs female jazz catalog.

Following the much appreciated Volume 1, this is another compilation from 2xHD’s artists interpreting a selection of great ballads. Here is another selection of great ballads performed by 2xHD’s best female jazz singers and instrumentalists, a follow up to the much appreciated Jazz Ballads album released on 2xHD two years ago. It includes performances by Shirley Horn, Holly Cole, Ben Webster, and more.

For his sophomore release with Resonance Records, Swedish guitarist, songwriter, and producer Andreas Öberg presents "Six String Evolution". Featuring John Patitucci on bass, Lewis Nash on drums, Dave Kikoski on keys, and Darmon Meader on sax and vocals, this is an ear-charming mix of smooth jazz, ballads and funk, with hints of Latin influences.

Swing tenor saxophone player Ben Webster earned the nickname “The Brute and the Beautiful” in jazz circles where his musical versatility was well-known. Webster's signature tough, raspy and gruff tone softened on ballads, which he played with warmth and sentiment. On this Storyville release he caresses seven timeless melodies in a variety of settings including trios with either Teddy Wilson, Ole Kock Hansen or Kenny Drew on piano, backing by The Danish Radio Big Band (on "Cry Me a River") or a version of "Greensleeves" with a string orchestra. Although largely forgotten in the United States (he had moved to Europe in 1965), Ben Webster was still in fine form this late in his career.

"Early Chet" compiles tracks jazz trumpeter Chet Baker recorded while on tour in the mid- and late '50s. These tracks were made at the height of Baker's popularity and showcase him in fine form throughout. Featured here are several (rare for Baker) big-band numbers, as well as two superb duets with Italian vocalist/guitarist Caterina Valente, "I Remember April" and "Everytime We Say Goodbye".

Live in Tokyo will make you relive the beauty and the absolute joy of an Emilie-Claire Barlow concert experience..

German B-3 player Jermaine Landsberger has brought a new freshness to the jazz organ. This all star session features a rare appearance by Pat Martino. "In the evolution of any instrument, there's only a handful who are really innovative. This guy's one of them. Jermaine Landsberger is a formidable artist, a master with the flame!" – Pat Martino