Doug MacDonald – Santa Monica Session (Dmac Music, 2024)
Doug MacDonald, a seasoned guitarist deeply rooted in the West Coast jazz tradition, unveils a fresh take on his music with Santa Monica Session. Departing from his usual traditional jazz repertoire, MacDonald explores luscious Latin-inspired rhythms, from irresistible salsa ritmos to lively Brazilian samba and romantic bolero, signaling a contemporary shift in his career. As he states, “My goal is to always present a diverse listening experience and avoid similarities to previous albums.” This release highlights the versatility and creativity of the Los Angeles-based musicians accompanying him.
Originally from Philadelphia, MacDonald’s career spans decades and geographies. He began in Hawaii, performing with Trummy Young and Gabe Balthazar, before moving to Las Vegas, where he played alongside jazz icons such as Joe Williams and Carl Fontana. In Los Angeles, he collaborated with legends like Bill Holman, Ray Anthony, and Ray Charles, while also recording with his own ensembles, including the 13-piece Jazz Coalition.
With 15 albums under his belt, MacDonald’s discography reflects his deep engagement with jazz across diverse formats. Highlights include Fourth Stream (2009), an orchestral project mixing brass and strings; Solo Plus (2014), a solo collection of standards; and Reorganized Quartet (2016), which features seasoned Los Angeles musicians. His 2019 release, California Quartet, offers a mix of original compositions and standards, capturing the timeless allure of swing and mainstream jazz.
MacDonald’s career extends far beyond the recording studio. Performing over 300 shows annually, he has graced venues ranging from Houston’s Cezanne to New York City’s Carnegie Hall and Mezzrow. His international tours have brought him to Spain, Finland, Estonia, and England. Despite his demanding schedule, MacDonald continues to mentor aspiring musicians through online lessons, underscoring his dedication to jazz education.
Musicians: Doug MacDonald on guitar; Bill Cantos on piano, organ, Fender Rhodes; Hussain Jiffry on bass; and Kevin Winard on drums and percussion.
Author: Iliana Cabrera
