AllMusic

Ralph Alessi

Imaginary Friends

February 1, 2019

Modern Creative

An inventive improvisor in the Kenny Wheeler-mold, Alessi makes modern creative jazz that is aware of tradition, but rarely evinces it. He's well-matched by his partner. The son of John and Alice Coltrane, Ravi Coltrane has spent much of his career bucking obvious comparisons to his iconic father, while conversely living up to his family lineage with his own deeply cerebral style of post-bop. This album follows up Alessi's two previous ECM outings, 2013's Baida and 2016's Quiver, and is the first to feature This Against That since 2011's Wiry Strong.

- Matt Collar

Mike Posner

A Real Good Kid

January 18, 2019

Alternative/Indie Rock

Leaving Ibiza in the rearview, Posner doubles-down on the introspection with his heartbreaking third effort. Named after a devastating line that ends the album, this is Posner reflecting on the loss of his father, a friend, and a relationship, processing his grief in a simple but pure manner. Standouts like the relatively upbeat "Song About You" and "Move On" balance production wonders like "Wide Open" and the tear-jerking "How It's Supposed To Be."

- Neil Z. Yeung