2455
shaun@blittzedmarketing.com April 1, 2026
O's Notes: Drummer/percussionist Billie Davies takes a leap into the future with 2455, a collection of electronic music that is a prediction of what we’ll be jamming to in the 2400s. Billie plays electronic drums, percussion, and electronic piano, with Branden James Lewis (t, digitized keyboards, synths), and Damani Butler (electronic loops). It sounds like a score from a science fiction movie and then some! “The Root of All”, “Blue Moon Dance”, and “Tabula Rasa” are notable.
Glow
shaun@blittzedmarketing.com April 1, 2026
O's Notes: Pairing two vibraphonists is unusual but appreciated on Glow, a tribute to the late vibes and marimba player, Dave Samuels. Both Friedman and Miceli are respected musicians and together they make a delightful performance. The duo has performed together on many occasions, and this is immediately evident as they seamlessly trade registers. Highlights are “Nature Boy”, “When You Wish Upon A Star”, “Falling Grace”, and “Noisy Blues”. We were impressed with the stickiness of the session and remained engaged end to end!
The Butterfly Effect
shaun@blittzedmarketing.com April 1, 2026
O's Notes: Saxophonist, composer Dave Pietro leads a quintet on The Butterfly Effect, his second release on Steeple Chase. The band includes Gary Versace (p), Scott Wendholt (t), Jay Anderson (b), and Adam Cruz (d). They perform six of Dave’s originals with three covers of popular tunes, notably Bacharach’s “Promises, Promises“. We also liked the title track and “Idle Tears”, each containing detailed nuances and fresh musings.
Wake Up Call
shaun@blittzedmarketing.com April 1, 2026
O's Notes: Michigan based pianist, composer Rick Roe leads a quartet on Wake Up Call, his latest recording on Cold Plunge Records. The rhythm section is strong with Robert Hurst (b), and drummer Nate Winn (d), while Marcus Elliot (sax) handles most melodies. Roe is the glue, holding it together The program features the music of Gregg Hill. They open with “Inside Straight” with each member establishing themselves with solos. We enjoyed the swinging, blues of the title track, “The Return of Mr. Pea”, “La Canción” with a rich solo by Hurst, and “Wide River”.