Ralph Magazine

For A Sun That Never Sets, Ralph Alessi expands the quartet configuration with a fifth player for a set of eleven new compositions that elaborate on Alessi’s intricate writing with deep thought and a fresh sense of adventure. The last time Alessi operated with a quintet was with saxophonist Ravi Coltrane in his This Against That ensemble, captured on 2019’s acclaimed Imaginary Friends. Instead of a saxophonist, this time the trumpeter’s brother Joseph Alessi comes into the fold and fortifies an already state-of-the-art group with inspired trombone lines in frequently wild interplay with the trumpet. Pianist Matt Mitchell, John Hébert on double bass and Ches Smith on drums and vibraphone round out a band that navigates Alessi’s syncopated themes like a playground, finding new modes of expression for every turn.

The Genius of Ray Charles is a 1959 album by Ray Charles. In 2003, the album was ranked number 263 on Rolling Stone magazine's list of the 500 greatest albums of all time. Some players from Ray Charles' big band are joined by many ringers from the Count Basie and Duke Ellington bands for the first half of this program, featuring Charles belting out six songs arranged by Quincy Jones. "Let the Good Times Roll" and "Deed I Do" are highlights, and there are solos by tenorman David "Fathead" Newman, trumpeter Marcus Belgrave, and (on "Two Years of Torture") tenor Paul Gonsalves. The remaining six numbers are ballads, with Charles backed by a string orchestra arranged by Ralph Burns. Charles' voice is heard throughout in peak form, giving soul to even the veteran standards.

Rewinding to the 1970s and zooming toward the millennium, there were no musicians on the planet more respected and revered than brothers Mike, Jeff, and Steve Porcaro. For over three decades they reigned as the royal family of groove. They created music that not only made you marvel at its sophistication, they made you feel it deep in your soul. Mike Porcaro, master of the 5-string, had a transcendental connection to his bass. He and his instrument were one. With his eyes closed and bass slung high, Mike poured his heart into every note he played, laying down rich, beautiful foundations that were as liquid-smooth as they were solid. Jeff Porcaro, the man with the golden groove, was the king of his multi-platinum class. He was the one, the only, the best of the best. Everyone wanted a piece of Jeff, and it was easy to see why. His ability to absolutely nail it in the studio was legendary, and his grooves were ridiculously deep and musical. Steve Porcaro, the wizard, the superstar of synthesis, created multi-dimensional soundscapes, textures, and quirky-cool phrases that had never been heard before. Onstage and in the studio, Steve propelled the music with vibrant colors and kinetic energy. A true original.