Bman's Blues Report

ALBUM REVIEW Russ Anixter's Hippie Big Band - What's Next? Label: RussAnixter.com Released: August 7, 2026 DR: TBD R uss Anixter's Hippie Big Band isn't your standard, straight-laced jazz ensemble. It’s an unconventional, hard-grooving 11-piece New York collective that takes the wild, improvisational freedom of late-1960s counterculture rock and smashes it together with the sophisticated horn charts of large-ensemble jazz. Formed in 2019, the band treats classic tracks from the Grateful Dead, Jimi Hendrix, Little Feat, and Miles Davis like raw canvases—stretching them out with massive horn arrangements, unexpected rhythmic shifts, and plenty of room for heavy jamming. The group keeps a tight, dedicated lineup of killer musicians who are regulars in New York’s elite studio, Broadway, and jazz circles. The whole project is the brainchild of veteran arranger, orchestrator, and trombonist Russ Anixter. Russ grew up ...

ALBUM REVIEW Jeremy Green - In Motion Label: Independent Released: July 17, 2026 DR: TBD J eremy Green is a super talented contemporary guitarist and songwriter who has been making waves in the modern jazz fusion and rock scenes. Known for his clean technique, soulful melodies, and killer solos, he has a knack for blending complex instrumental setups with a smooth, groove-heavy vibe. Over the years, he has really grown as a bandleader, moving from straightforward jazz-rock jams into massive, layered studio projects. His overall style is all about great tone and sharp production, making him a standout independent artist for anyone who loves great guitar playing. His new release is a massive showcase for his personal growth as both a player and a musical director. On this project, he takes the lead as the main composer, arranger, and producer while guiding an absolute powerhouse lineup of guest musicians. Rather than letting the ...

ALBUM REVIEW Bywater Call - Broken Souvenirs Label: Bywater Call Records Released: July 29, 2026 DR: TBD B ywater Call is a powerhouse seven-piece crew out of Toronto that’s been tearing up the Southern soul and roots-rock scene since 2017. Fronted by Meghan Parnell’s raw, whiskey-and-honey vocals and Dave Barnes’ greasy slide guitar work, these guys embrace a super loose, jam-heavy vibe that makes every live show feel completely spontaneous. They’ve got this killer, free-flowing chemistry where gritty blues-rock, gospel keys, and jazz-funk horns just bleed together into a soulful Americana stew. They're basically road warriors, constantly touring the world and dropping acclaimed records like Shepherd and their latest jam, Broken Souvenirs. If you dig organic music that isn't over-rehearsed and actually has some room to breathe, this is your new favorite band. Add this Record to Your Collection ...