Where do the classics come from; the words and music from very early in the 20th century that so many take today and make their own…riffing (not ripping) off the Great American Songbook, each with their unique interpretations and melodic bent? It struck vocalist and songwriter Hadar Orshalimy that so many of the unheralded powerhouses... Continue Reading →
Benjamin Sutin is a jazz/klezmer violinist, composer, educator and founder of Klazz-Ma-Tazz who finds both jazz and klezmer inspirational. He is a leader and sideman who has played venues including Dizzy's Club Coca Cola, the Lincoln Center's Appel Room, the Apollo Theater and many others. For more info on his band, please see the new... Continue Reading →
Combine the smoothness of a dry martini with a slightly musky cologne and a starched collar: riffing off the vibe of Mancini and others makes Gabe Pope’s new album “Cool Composure” some welcomed time travel. He’s created music that feels like an orchestra is in your living room with original melodies activating a happy nostalgia.... Continue Reading →
A song starts out and you’re totally open, ready to get your mind around the rhythm of it, the main tune of it, and soon after, to identify where the harmonies lie and where the other textures will start to fit in. What happens if, within the first few bars, you get hit with an... Continue Reading →
Hard-hitting drums set the stage for the song “Rite of Passage” where a bluesy piano lead from Dan Siegel sets free a scintillating melody. Shifting direction and changing key, the guitar keeps a rich, concentrated groove; the bridge takes a step back in tempo; then the passage continues rolling. Outstanding harmonies shine luminously and lead... Continue Reading →
Lush horn work and harmonies make the Michael Lauren All Stars’ “Once Upon a Time in Portugal” swing and sway. The vibes provide smooth, round stones of notes followed by a light, joyous beat from Michael on percussion, making this travelogue-like tribute to his adopted country an inviting musical endorsement. “Minor Strain” is stunningly melodic... Continue Reading →
The twin opening chords of “It Plays By Itself” establishes the groove and funk that Israeli guitar master Elon Turgeman is known for. With vibrant color reminiscent of chimes and an uplifting, echo chamber-like quality, the song drives to his first sassy solo; and Elon is quite the technician. Brilliant drum work by Adam Nussbaum... Continue Reading →
Although he’s not the father of jazz fusion, he’s very possibly the earliest and longest torchbearer of it - adding smooth, funk and trad jazz elements. Jeff Lorber’s performances for decades show the man remains full of energy and engages audiences wherever he goes. The pianist/producer/composer and front man grew up a stone’s throw from... Continue Reading →
Debbie Burke - jazz author 
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