New York City organist/pianist, Brian Charette, has established himself as a leading voice in modern jazz. Charette is a Hammond U.S.A, I.K Multimedia, and Casio endorsed, Steeplechase, Positone, and Cellar Live recording artist. He was the winner of the 2014 Downbeat Critics’ Poll “Rising Star: Organ” award and 2015 Hot House Magazine's “Fan's Decision Jazz Award for Best Organist”. He has placed 3rd in the 2021 Downbeat Critic’s Poll and has released 19 albums, many of which have been in the Jazzweek and Itunes top 20. Brian he recently released a solo electronica recording, Like the Sun, and the third Music for Organ Sextet release, Power from the Air. Both have received rave reviews with Power from the Air getting 4 stars in Downbeat.
Besides being a critically acclaimed composer and bandleader, Brian has performed with many notable artists such as Joni Mitchell, Chaka Khan, Paul Simon, Cyndi Lauper, Joey DeFranceso, Oz Noy, Vinnie Colaiuta, John Patitucci, and many more. He is a staple of the downtown NYC scene working with virtually everyone who plays with an organist
Here's what Brian says about "Jackpot"- I've known Cory Weeds for many years and have always admired him as an artist and label owner. Last year, I had the idea for a new recording that would be more traditional than my other albums which often placed the organ in a more unconventional role with electronics and wind ensembles. I wanted to write some pretty, swinging, bebop tunes with a classic approach that would give a nod to all my biggest influences; Jack McDuff, Melvin Rhyne, Don Patterson, Larry Young, and Jimmy Smith. Cellar Music’s esthetic seemed like a perfect fit for the concept, as did Cory's musicianship which is evidenced in the tracks here. Ed Cherry on guitar was an obvious choice. He's lyrical, funky, and a brilliant accompanist. We've also worked together for many years and know each other's style very well. Cory had worked with Bill Stewart before and suggested him as drummer for the group. I was naturally very excited to play with one of my heros. Bill's hard swinging and masterful control were perfect for the date. With Jackpot, we've tried to deliver a super swinging session with memorable tunes and super soulful blowing. I hope you enjoy.
credits
released July 15, 2022
Brian Charette – Hammond Organ
Cory Weeds – tenor saxophone
Ed Cherry – guitar
Bill Stewart - drums
Executive Producer: Cory Weeds
Produced by Cory Weeds and Brian Charette
Recorded at Van Gelder Recording Studio in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey on November 4, 2022
Engineered by Maureen Sickler
Mixed and mastered by Chris Gestrin
Cover Art by Takao Fujioka
Photography by Cory Weeds
Design and layout John Sellards
A back and forth between meaningful narratives and casual conversations. Whatever it is it is expressed by well sounding and souvereign voices. freejazzy
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