For a young Nicholas Payton, Miles Davis’ 1966 album ‘Four’ & More provided a template for what music could be. With Smoke Sessions, set for release on October 29, 2021, via the label of the same name, Payton realizes his long-cherished dream of leading a session with a pair of musicians that extend from that Milesian lineage: Ron Carter on bass and George Coleman on saxophone. (A third contributor to ‘Four’ & More, pianist Herbie Hancock, is represented by the composition “Toys,” but Payton fills the keyboard chair on the date as well as playing trumpet). Rounding out the quartet is the esteemed drummer Karriem Riggins, a longtime collaborator of Payton’s who helps ensure that the music bridges generations as well as styles. (Photo: Smoke Sessions Records)
The editors of JAZZIZ have the good fortune of being able to listen to new music before it’s officially released in stores and streaming platforms. And because we’re listening to new tunes all day every day, we know just what to recommend when new albums are released every Friday. That’s why, each Monday, we’ll be bringing you a roundup of our 10 favorite songs from the weekend courtesy of our Editors’ Choice playlists, which will feature our favorite new albums, singles and other tunes that may have flown under your radar.
Our Editors’ Choice playlist for the week of October 11 features a new tribute to Miles Davis by trumpeter Nicholas Payton, a reissued gem by pianist Oscar Peterson, a recent single from Jon Batiste and more. Listen now via the playlist below!