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Gerry Casey Interviews Carrie Zavala
Zavala Sol is a San Diego-based band formed in 2022, blending blues, swing, Southern rock, and funk. Lead singer Carrie Zavala's powerful voice shapes the band's identity. They quickly gained recognition, releasing a debut album and winning the San Diego International Blues Challenge, set to represent the city in 2024.
The Temple University Jazz Band LIVE FROM JAPAN, VOLUME 1
The Temple University Jazz Band, led by GRAMMY-winning trumpeter Terell Stafford, toured Japan and recorded a live album celebrating jazz culture. Their performance at Akasaka B-Flat in Tokyo featured classic Ellington pieces and showcased the talent of students, particularly drummer Maria Marmarou. The album releases on February 6, 2026.
What Actually Matters When Building a Home Recording Studio
Building a successful home recording studio relies on understanding its purpose rather than simply accumulating gear. Key elements include the acoustic qualities of the room, proper workflow, and effective monitoring. Emphasizing knowledge over equipment, clear setups, and adaptability fosters creativity, allowing artists to focus on the music rather than technical obstacles.
Baltimore Jazz Collective
The Baltimore Jazz Collective, founded by trumpeter Sean Jones, showcases a distinctive sound that reflects the city's vibrant music scene. With talented members like tap dancer Brinae Ali and composers like Alex Brown and Todd Marcus, their original compositions blend blues influences and interactive performances, celebrating Baltimore's cultural richness.
Fixing Weak Performances Without Re-Recording: Ethical AI Editing
The podcast discusses ethical AI editing in music production, emphasizing the balance between enhancing performances and preserving the artist's emotional intent. It highlights that weak performances often reflect human vulnerability rather than skill deficits. Ethical AI editing supports artistic expression, fostering trust with listeners, while recklessly applied AI risks erasing authenticity.
Tinsley Ellis Labor of Love
Tinsley Ellis's "Labor of Love" showcases his distinct southern blues style, blending blistering guitar work and heartfelt vocals. Following his critically acclaimed "Naked Truth," this album emphasizes blues, drawing inspiration from his time with blues legend Jimmy Holmes. With unique compositions and a variety of influences, Ellis continues to evolve while captivating audiences.
Discover Terry Robb: A Master of Acoustic Blues
Terry Robb, an acclaimed acoustic blues guitarist from Portland, has significantly influenced the blues genre. Renowned for his fingerstyle mastery, he has received multiple awards, including a Muddy Award named after him. His extensive career includes collaborations with notable musicians and recognition from prestigious publications, showcasing his diverse musical talents and contributions.
Wes Smith WE, THE FUNKY – VOL 1.
Wes Smith's album "We, The Funky – Vol 1" showcases a blend of contemporary jazz, pop, R&B, and smooth jazz. Featuring deep grooves and rich arrangements, Smith, a multi-instrumentalist, reflects on his Los Angeles journey. While initially promising funk, the album leans towards smoother sounds, with only a couple of funky tracks.
Tonalic by Celemony: Intelligent Loops That Actually Listen to Your Music
Tonalic by Celemony is an AI-assisted music production tool designed for independent artists. Unlike traditional loop libraries, Tonalic understands musical context, adapting to chord changes in real time. Integrated with Fender Studio Pro 8 via ARA, it enhances workflow by removing technical barriers, allowing artists to focus on creativity and momentum.
Omar Coleman & Igor Prado Old, New, Funky And Blue
Omar Coleman and Igor Prado collaborate on the album "Old, New, Funky And Blue," featuring a blend of original tracks and reimagined covers inspired by blues legends. With infectious grooves and soulful performances, the album showcases Coleman's harmonica and vocals alongside Prado's guitar work. It's a celebration of blues tradition and contemporary sound.
Record Labels Aren’t Evil—They’re Just Optional Now
The podcast discusses the evolving role of record labels in the music industry, highlighting that they have transitioned from necessary gatekeepers to optional service providers. Independent artists can now maintain control, ownership, and build direct relationships with fans, thanks to advancements in technology and AI. This shift empowers musicians to navigate careers on their own terms.
Gil Livni ALL IN
Gil Livni's album "All In" showcases his exceptional guitar skills alongside a talented quartet featuring saxophone, organ, and drums. The album includes seven original compositions and unique covers, blending jazz, funk, and blues. Notable tracks include the energetic "Wonder Woman" and the soulful "All In," highlighting each musician's talent.
https://www.makingascene.org/gil-livni-all-in/?utm_source=mastodon&utm_medium=jetpack_social
The Dave Wilson Quartet WHEN EVEN GOES EAST
The Dave Wilson Quartet's album "When Even Goes East" features Dave Wilson on saxophones, with a special appearance by Lenny Castro. Inspired by his NYC cab driver days, Wilson covers 1960s and 70s pop tunes, including Jimmy Webb’s works. The album showcases original compositions with dynamic arrangements and emotive melodies.
The DAO Label Model: When Artists and Fans Run the Business
The DAO label model revolutionizes the traditional record label by decentralizing control and empowering artists and fans. With shared decision-making and transparent finances, it fosters a sustainable music ecosystem where contributors gain stability and ownership. By treating fans as stakeholders rather than customers, DAO labels create a more equitable and participatory music industry.
Lucinda Williams World’s Gone Wrong
Lucinda Williams, a Grammy-winning artist, releases her album World's Gone Wrong on January 23, 2025, tackling socio-political issues through raw and urgent songwriting. The album features themes of struggle, resilience, division, and moral reckoning, culminating in a call to action and hope for a better future amidst turmoil.
https://www.makingascene.org/newsletter-archive/?email_id=697
Making a Scene Presents our latest newsletter, Issue 535 for January 20 2026—now read in over 30 countries worldwide!
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Agnes UnCaged is Making a Scene
Agnes Uncaged, a Minneapolis indie rock band formerly known as Creeping Charlie, blends emotional and melodic sounds. Comprising sisters Julia and Esmé Eubanks, they focus on community support amid local turmoil, dedicating their upcoming CD release to help immigrant families. Their music reflects both personal and social narratives.
The Lowest Pair Always As Young As We’ll Ever Be
The Lowest Pair, an American folk band, releases their seventh album, Always As Young As We’ll Ever Be, under Team Love Records. This ten-song collection explores life’s uncertainties, emphasizing themes of love, resilience, and emotional confusion. The duo, Kendl Winter and Palmer T. Lee, reflects on life’s imperfections in their heartfelt lyrics.
Gerry Casey interviews Willie Edwards
Wille Edwards, a Cornwall-based musician and songwriter, leads the internationally acclaimed band Wille and the Bandits. Known for his eclectic blend of blues, rock, and folk, he has toured globally and shared stages with major artists. A prolific songwriter, his versatile music appeals to diverse audiences, showcasing his powerful live performances and creative collaborations.
Roberto Fonseca & Vincent Ségal NUIT PARISIENNE A LA HAVANE
Roberto Fonseca and Vincent Ségal collaborate on "Nuit Parisienne À La Havane," blending Cuban and European classical influences with contemporary jazz. Their eleven original compositions reveal storytelling through music, showcasing Fonseca's rich piano legacy and Ségal's versatile cello artistry. The album evokes deep emotion and cultural fusion, creating a captivating auditory journey.