Icon of the upright bass, Ron Carter (who began his music career as a schoolboy on cello) has enjoyed decades of amazing performances and is a major contributor to the jazz lexicon. He is a composer, a teacher, an author, and has the distinction of making the Guinness Book of World Records for 2,221 individual... Continue Reading →
This is part one of three parts derived from an in-depth interview with David Amram, the musician/composer/arranger/conductor/author who just turned 90. Mr Amram's legacy and contributions to the art form which are vast and varied (and defy description here) were celebrated recently at his 90th birthday where he and his quintet streamed live from Mark... Continue Reading →
The songs on guitarist David Howard’s new album “Next” can be taken as an invitation to think of better days that are just ahead of us. Whether pointed social commentary or not, the music is enjoyable, embraceable and light-hearted and requires no effort to experience. Characterized by a light and easy groove is “Something’s Got... Continue Reading →
Guitarist Dan Pocetti emphasizes a new journey in his latest album titled “Retoñar” (“Sprout”), which could refer to a young plant or the act of coming alive. The music is appropriately subtle and moves with great tenderness. “Golpeando las Puertas del Espejo” (“Banging on the Mirror Doors”) soothes like a rising dawn; smooth, pastel tones... Continue Reading →
She sings in a register and with a timbre not often heard; deeper, richer, imparting a natural wisdom about life. Ada Bird Wolfe’s latest release “He & Me” – a well-balanced pairing with pianist Jamieson Trotter – describes the observations of life that are both beautiful and sad. Something about her treatment of “But Beautiful”... Continue Reading →
A new offering from guitarist Todd Mosby explores the heights of human experience with unique instrumentation and catchy, well-crafted music. Called “Aerial Views,” it is the third in a series of concept albums. The feel-good “Gliding” has a lovely hook and weaves a mixture of different tonal qualities into a beautiful pattern. “Into Starlight” is... Continue Reading →
Crack open the new book by record exec Jeff Gold and be prepared to be immersed into the world of mid-century jazz with its smoky clubs, flowing alcohol and sizzling music scene. “Sittin’ In – Jazz Clubs of the 1940s and 1950s” (Harper Collins) not only promises a trip through memory lane but delivers it... Continue Reading →
A little adventurous and a lot smooth, that’s the flavor from musician John Thasaint. The pianist is out with a new CD called “This Is Us” – 15 great tracks reminiscent of the heartwarming melodies and easy rhythms of R&B. “Tones of Love” has a background depth that doesn’t pull down its smooth tempo and... Continue Reading →
Total tonal fluency is attained through hard work and love for the craft, something vocalist Sharón Clark knows a lot about. Her recent collab with Mattias Nilsson had their small but mighty ensemble fill the room with sonic pleasure. On “Sometimes I’m Happy” the way she bends a note is so sublime that you can... Continue Reading →
Debbie Burke - jazz author 
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