EMP Project Releases Best of EMP Project — A Remastered Collection of Modern Jazz Trio Recordings5/2/2026 Blue Canoe Records proudly announces the release of Best of EMP Project, a newly remastered compilation album from the Southern-based jazz trio EMP Project, available worldwide on May 1, 2026.
Bringing together a powerful blend of modern jazz, fusion, groove, and improvisational interplay, Best of EMP Project revisits standout recordings originally captured between 2002 and 2005. These selections, drawn from the group’s debut EMP Project and sophomore release Wherever We Go, have been carefully remastered to introduce the trio’s music to a new generation of listeners. At the core of EMP Project is a deeply rooted musical connection between three longtime collaborators:
The trio’s origins trace back to their time studying at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville (1989–1994), where they developed a shared musical language under the guidance of renowned educators including Jerry Coker, Donald Brown, Rusty Holloway, Keith Brown, Mark Boling and others. After years pursuing individual careers across the country, the musicians reunited—capturing lightning in a bottle during a series of live studio recordings in Atlanta, Georgia. Recorded on August 6–7, 2002, with no rehearsals, the sessions document the trio’s raw chemistry, spontaneity, and collective musical intuition. Each member contributed original compositions, resulting in a truly collaborative artistic statement. Track highlights include: Warrior, Wherever We Go, Elise, Just Visiting, Ba Dump, Birdy, Quickly and Quietly, Night, and Synergy. The original recordings were produced by EMP Project alongside Vic Stafford and Anita Walls, who also handled mixing and mastering. For this release, the material has been newly remastered by Joseph Patrick Moore at Abstract Truth Recording Studio (Henderson, NV), offering enhanced clarity while preserving the organic energy of the original performances. Artist Quote “This music captures a moment before life pulled us in different directions—three musicians reconnecting with no expectations, just trust and instinct. Remastering these recordings gave me the chance to hear that honesty again, and I’m excited to share it with listeners who may be discovering EMP Project for the first time.” — Joseph Patrick Moore About the Release Best of EMP Project serves as both a retrospective and a reintroduction—highlighting a trio whose musical roots run deep, and whose sound remains timeless, exploratory, and deeply connected. Availability Best of EMP Project is available on all major streaming platforms beginning May 1, 2026. 🔗 More info: Blue Canoe Records 🔗 Streaming: https://orcd.co/60y0e5b Blue Canoe Records proudly announces the highly anticipated return of the Dave Pope Trio with their new album “Skyline,” available July 18, 2025. This release reunites drummer Dave Pope, pianist and bassist Mike Pope, and world-renowned bassist John Patitucci in a soulful, spontaneous, and deeply expressive collection of originals and jazz standards.
After a 14-year hiatus following their acclaimed debut You and The Night and The Music (2012), the trio reconnected in August 2024 at Vatican City Sound in Marriottsville, MD. Despite having no live performances together in the interim—and with minimal rehearsal—what emerged was a session overflowing with chemistry, creativity, and courage. “Skyline” features two original compositions—Dave Pope’s title track “Skyline” and “Country Nocturne” by Mike Pope—alongside a curated selection of jazz classics including:
Of special note is the unique interpretation of “Falling Grace,” which features both Mike and John on 6-string electric bass, transforming the trio into a piano/guitar-style ensemble for this track. The recording nearly faced a setback when Mike Pope suffered a detached retina just one week prior to the session—his second eye surgery in recent months. Despite limited vision, he pressed forward with determination and humor, even jokingly suggesting the album be titled Flying Blind. Thankfully, Mike has since fully recovered, and his performances on this recording are nothing short of remarkable. Reflecting on the experience, Dave Pope shares: “We covered a lot of musical ground in just two days. Although we hadn’t played live as a group, the session flowed naturally. I’m proud of what we captured and grateful to have had this opportunity with Mike and John.” About Dave Pope: An Atlanta-based multi-instrumentalist (drums, guitar, bass), Dave Pope has spent decades cultivating a diverse musical career spanning the Midwest, East Tennessee, and the Southeast. From garage bands at 14 to sessions with jazz luminaries like Randy Brecker, Joe Gransden, and Louis Heriveaux, Dave brings a deep well of experience and artistic sensitivity to every project. About Mike Pope: An acclaimed bassist, pianist, composer, and educator, Mike Pope is a faculty member at Berklee College of Music. He’s known for his extensive solo work and collaborations with artists like Chick Corea, Al Di Meola, and David Sanborn. About John Patitucci: A multiple Grammy Award-winning bassist, John Patitucci has played with legends including Wayne Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, and Esperanza Spalding. His unmistakable sound and virtuosity are on full display throughout Skyline. “Skyline” by the Dave Pope Trio is a testament to resilience, chemistry, and timeless artistry. Available on all major digital platforms July 18, 2025, via Blue Canoe Records. Blue Canoe Records is proud to announce the release of Terminus, the full-length album from Cryptic Cadet, a bold new art-rock trio comprised of renowned musicians d. mark owen (Cirque Du Soleil), drummer Cam Tyler (Cirque Du Soleil), and the legendary bassist Tim Lefebvre (David Bowie, Tedeschi Trucks Band). The 11-song collection of all-original music will be available worldwide on June 13, 2025, across all major streaming platforms and music retailers. At the crossroads of progressive rock, cinematic soundscapes, and deeply emotive songwriting, Terminus is a sonic journey that defies conventional genre boundaries. Spearheaded by d. mark owen’s visionary production, arrangement, and mixing, the album is a meticulously crafted showcase of musical depth and emotional intensity. The project is elevated by an impressive lineup of guest artists, including guitar luminaries Michael Landau, Lyle Workman, and Matt Ascione. Vocals are powerfully delivered by Will Champlin (NBC’s The Voice, Season 5 finalist), with soulful background harmonies from Lucy Woodward (Snarky Puppy, Pink, Chaka Khan) and Ken “Fletch” Walcott. Track Listing – Terminus
Cryptic Cadet’s Terminus is more than a sophomore release—it’s a statement. John Daversa and his big band release his 3rd CD live from the baked potato titled, "Improvisatory Observatory: Live and Raw at the Baked Potato, Exhibit 3". With and all-star band, John leads the listener on a unique journey of song and conversation. Now available wherever you get your music!
John Daversa and Tal Cohen team up again to deliver a spectacular live CD titled: "Live Deep Dive at Timucua: The Art of Duo Live Set 1". Now available wherever you get your music!
John Daversa releases - "Improvisatory Observatory: Live and Raw at the Baked Potato, Exhibit 2".
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