NEW RELEASE!

Earth Wind and Wonder Volume 2

More unique, grooving jazz arrangements of songs by Earth, Wind & Fire and Stevie Wonder. Official Release Date: June 16, 2023. Live on Spotify: August 25, 2023.

#1 on the JazzWeek.com National Radio Chart

#8 on JazzWeek.com Most Played in 2023

Available now on Spotify and Bandcamp as well as all other major music platforms.

Hear the singles on Spotify:

That’s the Way of the World (EW&F) / Master Blaster (Jammin’) (S. Wonder) / In the Stone (EW&F)

Once again, Don Braden and his groups explore this classic EW&F and Stevie Wonder music in a truly modern jazz way: with creativity, passion and groove! This collection of tunes continues to augment the “contemporary standards” repertoire Braden has built over the years -- jazz interpretations of the “American Songbook” of his generation.  Check it out and hear these wonderful songs with "new ears"!

Featuring:
Don on tenor sax, flute and alto flute
Miki Hayama and Art Hirahara on piano & keyboards
Kenny Davis on bass
Jeremy Warren on drums
Kahlil Kwame Bell on percussion

Check out the Quartet Live at Birdland:

Track Listing:

  1. In the Stone (EW&F)

  2. Master Blaster (Jammin’) (S. Wonder)

  3. Reasons (EW&F)

  4. Profusion (D. Braden)

  5. Send One Your Love (S. Wonder)

  6. Bird of Beauty (S. Wonder)

  7. Arise (D. Braden)

  8. Creepin’ (S. Wonder)

  9. That’s the Way of the World (EW&F)

Check out the original Earth Wind and Wonder EPK:

What People Are Saying About Earth Wind and Wonder Volume 2:

— ”…the ensemble erupts in powerful cohesion and Braden burns.” - Herb Boyd, Downbeat magazine (**** 4-stars)

— ”Those who have followed Braden's long and rewarding career will know pretty much what to expect—tasteful music adeptly performed by an outstanding tenor saxophonist and his able supporting cast.” - Jack Bowers, All About Jazz (See the full review)

— “Bravo, Don! The music is fabulous, strong and pays tribute to important music by American composers long overlooked by many black and white jazz artists. Hopefully that will change.” - Mark Myers, JazzWax (See the full review)

— “Braden and his ensemble swing hard through these nine selections, applying authentic jazz to the originals and nary a hint of smooth jazz or overtly commercial gestures. Call it 21st Century soul-jazz.  As it should be. Amen.” - Jim Hynes, Making a Scene (See the full review)

— “It is done beautifully. Braden  digs in so deeply that a third GASbook is now firmly established. He blows prodigiously powerful tenor yet wears his heart on his sleeve when he plays flute on Stevie's Bird of Beauty. If you're of an emotional nature keep a box of tissues handy - you might need 'em!” - Lance Liddle, Bebop Spoken Here (See the full review)