Michael Lington & Paul Taylor

Saxophonist Michael Lington continues to innovate and exhilarate. Riding high on the success of his 2024 single “South Bay,” which made history as one of the longest running (seven weeks) #1 singles on the Billboard Smooth Jazz Airplay chart, the Danish born saxophonist initially considered following his hit 2023 EP Looking Ahead (his first shorter form release after 12 albums) with another full-length project. Yet when he began composing new songs with some favorite collaborators, they felt more like a continuation of Looking Ahead rather than, as he calls it, representative of “a brand-new situation.” As the sessions took shape, it became clear that the five tracks on Lington’s new EP On the Scene collectively create the ideal companion piece to the vibe his fans so powerfully embraced on the earlier release.

The number thirteen is cloaked in mysticism, regarded by some cultures as unlucky and revered by others as a sacred good omen or the birth of a new beginning. Saxophonist Paul Taylor’s anticipated new recording and Shanachie debut, It’s A Brand New Day, is his thirteenth recording as a leader. The charming and down-to-earth saxman reveals, “This album in some ways signifies a new cycle for me, as this is my first new recording in three years. The title speaks to my desire to give my fans an optimistic outlook as we approach every brand new day.”