It’s All About Love
shaun@blittzedmarketing.com June 30, 2026
O's Notes: Vocalist Darlene Cooper and keyboardist, producer Bill Sample are the heart of the Canadian collective, Wild Blue Herons, a funky, jazz, pop band. The rhythm section is tight with Tim Porter (g), Miles Foxx Hill (b) and Randall Stoll (d) along with crisp accents from Steve Hillman (t-sax) and Jim Hobson (tb). They get warm on “Under My Skin”, and sizzle on “Whatcha Gonna Do With Your Life”. We also enjoyed “Won’t Let You Steal” and “Mr. Wiggly”.
Que?
shaun@blittzedmarketing.com June 30, 2026
O's Notes: Experimental guitarist Ian Smit plays an amalgamation of genres best classified as free, rock fusion. His latest release ¿QUÉ? features recording engineer Scott Petito (b), Tom Rainey (d), and David Torn (g, effects). We liked “Wizard of Wut”, “Barker de la Carnivale” and “Oil Can Leaks” in a rather eclectic set.
Always Ever
shaun@blittzedmarketing.com June 30, 2026
O's Notes: Australian pianist, percussionist, and composer Alister Spence produces another spontaneous, solo effort, all played and performed in real time. The songs morph into one another but are distinctly different. He uses all elements of his piano, inside the box, on the sides as well as on the keys, extending his imagination to extract unique tones in a truly free jazz experience. Always Ever is a collection of 16 selections that reflect on the inner musical engine of Spence.