For lovers of jazz and the harmonica in particular, Enrico Granafei might be an incarnation of the master Toots Thielemans, but to the next couple of levels. The owner of Trumpets Jazz Club in Montclair, NJ, Enrico has taught himself to play what sounds like three instruments at once: an astounding, hands-free chromatic harmonica with... Continue Reading →
It’s here and gone, the annual Book Expo America at the Javits Center in NYC. This was my first, and I will definitely be back. Tips and Takeaways: It’s no time to be shy. Talk, meet, shake hands and do a lot of listening. Smiling too. My very first booth visit was to the London... Continue Reading →
A quintet with many gigs in famous places has brought Michael Hackett [second from left] to where he is today: teaching jazz at the college level – where there’s proof that jazz has a reinvigorated audience with students – and looking forward to digging in again and laying down some tracks. Michael’s trumpet sings and... Continue Reading →
Somehow, smiling while keeping his embouchure as he plays sax, Audley Reid is a sight to behold and a feast for the ears. The groove and funk spilling from his horn catches the audience in an acoustic vise. He’s performed internationally including in his native Jamaica. A strong figure in the Chicago smooth jazz scene,... Continue Reading →
Debbie Burke - jazz author 