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Black fabric tote with room for six large bottles. WEMU 45th anniversary logo in green and white on the front.

For her debut recording as a leader, post-Straight Ahead violinist Regina Carter plays marvelously, improvises well, and has a tone that is typically soaring, clear, and at times mournful. Victor Bailey's production values and songs (he wrote three) have a profound effect on the result of this music, which mostly ranges from pop-funk to smooth instrumentals. Carter wrote or co-wrote six of the ten tracks, that embody in diversity. The highlight is the Mark Helias piece "Beau Regard"; in a 6/8 rhythm, where trombonist Steve Turre and Carter play wonderfully rich unison lines while pianist Rachel Z embellishes with her own gossamer-like, forward-moving runs. Exuding true, pure soul, Carter and bassist Lonnie Plaxico interpret the Billie Holiday epic "Don't Explain", with no help. It's a tour de force of restrained response and a deeply felt, imaginative interpretation.

Composer/saxophonist Kenny Garrett emerged as a distinctive voice on the national scene in 1978 with an undisputed aptitude for emotive melodic phrasing that led him to collaborations with Woody Shaw, Freddie Hubbard, Art Blakey and Miles Davis. With Sounds from the Ancestors, Garrett remembers the spirit of the sounds of African ancestors from church services, recited prayers, songs from the work fields, Yoruban chants and African drums, alongside tributes to Roy Hargrove and two drum pioneers — Art Blakey and Tony Allen — who all looked into the past to influence the future sound and evolution of jazz.

Legendary drummer Louis Hayes makes his Blue Note-debut with Serenade for Horace, a tribute album to the great pianist and bandleader Horace Silver. It was as a member of Silver's Quintet from 1956-1959 that Hayes was introduced to the jazz world as the driving force on classic Blue Note albums including 6 Pieces of Silver, Further Explorations, The Stylings of Silver, and Finger Poppin'. Beginning with his self-titled debut for Vee-Jay in 1960, Hayes has recorded 18 albums as a leader.

Underrated and overlooked blues guitar veteran Larry McCray from Saginaw, MI finally gets his due with the help of producing team Joe Bonamassa and Josh Smith. After growing up with his incredible talent, Joe and Josh felt it was time for the world to discover this gem. With 11 original tracks (plus one cover song), this new album showcases Larry's powerhouse, soulful vocals, blazing guitar playing, and amazing songwriting. Joe Bonamassa, Warren Haynes and Joanna Connor all appear as featured guests.

Another in WEMU’s series of commemorative pint glasses, clear glass with the distinctive 45th jazz anniversary logo in white and green. Dishwasher safe.

Ypsilanti and Ann Arbor residents love their furry, nut burying friends. Plush gray squirrel with a bushy tail and green bandana with the WEMU logo in white.

Limited Edition black cotton tee with a gorgeous six color special logo, commemorating WEMU’s 45th anniversary of jazz broadcasting on the front. Adult sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL

"Elegant People" is the definitive history of Weather Report, the premier fusion band of the 1970s and beyond. Founded in late 1970 by three stars of the jazz world—keyboardist Joe Zawinul, saxophonist Wayne Shorter, and bassist Miroslav Vitouš—Weather Report went on to become the most unique and enduring jazz band of its era, with a style of music wholly its own. Hardcover. 504 pages.

Pick up all three jazz CDs in one package in celebration of the featured artists being named NEA jazz masters for the coming year.

Hear your personal message on WEMU eight times on the day of your choice. Perfect to commemorate special occasions, honor accomplishments, or remember loved ones. No controversial, religious, or political messages, please, and WEMU reserves the right to edit all copy.

Stylish dusty black/dark gray zip front fleece jackets with #teamwemu embroidered in green over the heart. Adult sizes: S, M, L, XL, XXL, XXXL