Lee Morgan Caramba

Morgan James has announced "A Very Magnetic Christmas". Called "the most promising young vocalist to come along so far this century" by The Wall Street Journal, James cemented her passion for classic soul in her 2020 album Memphis Magnetic. And like Memphis Magnetic, "A Very Magnetic Christmas", was recorded live to analog tape at Memphis Magnetic Recording in Tennessee and features several legendary Memphis studio musicians. The resulting ten tracks combine James' soulful take on classics like "O Holy Night," and "White Christmas;" re-imagined favorites like Clarence Carter's spicy "Back Door Santa," and Otis Redding/Lou Rawls' "Merry Christmas Baby"; and three originals, co-written by James and her husband/collaborator/arranger Doug Wamble. A full tracklist is below. James recorded the full album in front of a live studio audience.

With Jim Black we are used to the most different sounds. Paul Motian is one of his main influences, therefore it is not surprising for insiders that he now leads his own troika of piano, bass and drums. In the same way Paul Motian has formed the famous Bill Evans Trio, Jim Black does not find himself in the role of a simple time keeper, but plays melodies on his drums and cymbals interrelating closely with the piano and bass. Comparisons can only be misleading, but Jim Black's analog recording seems to be the continuation of 'Somewhere Before' to another place and into a new time; a great album of the first Keith Jarrett Trio with Charlie Haden on bass and Motian on drums. Music that is the godfather behind the creations of Winter & Winter. Black finds with young pianist Elias Stemeseder and bassist Thomas Morgan, who has worked with Motian, the perfect line-up. The three musicians open their innermost self and have an intimate dialogue captivating the listener. These three artists still have to tell themselves and us a lot of unheard stories.

Craig Morgan's next album will be a mix of new songs, early hits and deep cuts from his Broken Bow Records catalog. The singer announced that God, Family, Country will be released on May 22, featuring five new songs.