Thursday, December 30, 2010

Dos Amantes – Sephardic World Jazz

Dos Amantes – Sephardic World Jazz
New arrangements of ancient secular music of the Spanish Jews incorporating world rhythms from Spain, North Africa, Cuba, Peru, Argentina, and the Caribbean, creating an exotic and passionate sound. Available worldwide January 12, 2010 on JazzMa Records

Events
» 01/07/11 .... 01/08/11 - Kat Parra in Morgan Hill at D’Vine Wine and Jazz
» 01/23/11 - Kat Parra in San Francisco at Red Poppy Art House.




Kat Parra and the Sephardic Music Experience CD release concert. This song features Kat Parra on vocals, Murray Low on piano, Katja Cooper on cajon, Peter Barshay on bass, Paul VW on drums, Masaru Koga on flute and Lila Sklar on Violin.

Wednesday, December 29, 2010

Chico Pinheiro & Grupo - Chega de Saudade

Media blitz preps viewers for Winfrey OWN channel

LOS ANGELES - The Oprah Winfrey Network launching Saturday is wary of promising too much of a good thing — Winfrey herself.

In stoking interest in the cable channel, the goal is to exploit Winfrey's popularity while emphasizing that OWN won't be all Oprah, all the time.

"We really don't want to be a niche brand. We want to be a mainstream cable" network with appeal beyond Winfrey's fan base, said Darren Schillace, vice president of consumer marketing for OWN.

"Phase one" of the marketing effort aims to "manage expectations that it's not 24/7 Oprah on the network," Schillace said, with Winfrey committed to appearing in at least 70 hours of programming in 2011.

Helping viewers find OWN on the nation's various and crowded cable systems is another key goal in spreading the word about the joint venture between Winfrey's Harpo Inc. and Discovery Communications.
The effort to position OWN as Oprah-plus doesn't mean barring Winfrey, or her famous pals, from the premiere hoopla. And it hasn't led to understated promos for the reportedly $189 million gamble by Discovery.

"Watch our stunning and heart-pounding new video featuring so many stars and so much energy that it will leave you breathless," gushes the online heart of Planet Oprah, Oprah.com, in a section devoted to OWN.
The media queen herself is central to an OWN ad that debuted in movie theaters, vowing to bring her talk show-crafted message of self-empowerment to the channel's bigger canvas.

Complete: http://omg.yahoo.com/news/media-blitz-preps-viewers-for-winfrey-own-channel/53093

Billy Taylor - July 24, 1921 - December 28, 2010

Dr. Billy Taylor, a Jazz pianist, composer, educator and broadcaster who encompassed that rare combination of creativity, intelligence, vision, commitment and leadership, qualities that made him one of our most cherished national treasures, died in New York on December 28, 2010.  He was 89 and lived in Riverdale, New York.

The cause was heart failure, according to his daughter, Kim Taylor-Thompson.

The distinguished ambassador of the jazz community to the world-at-large, Dr. Billy Taylor's recording career spanned over six decades. He also composed over three hundred and fifty songs, as well as works for theatre, dance and symphony orchestras.

Among his most notable works is "I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free", achieving great popularity with Civil Rights Movement of the 1950s and 1960s. Nina Simone covered the song in her 1967 album Silk and Soul, and the song continues to be recorded by many artists worldwide, most recently by Levon Helm.

Playing the piano professionally since 1944, he got his start with Ben Webster's Quartet on New York's famed 52nd Street. He then served as the house pianist at Birdland, the legendary jazz club where he performed with such celebrated masters as Charlie Parker, Dizzy Gillespie and Miles Davis. Starting in the 1950s, Billy Taylor ked his own Trio, as well as performed with the most influential jazz musicians of the twentieth century.

After many years of recording for leading record labels, in 1989, Taylor started his own "Taylor Made" record label to document his own music, releasing four albums, and in the late 90s, "Soundpost Records," releasing his two final recordings.

Dr. Taylor was not only been an influential musician, but a highly regarded teacher as well, receiving his Masters and Doctorate in Music Education from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and serving as a Duke Ellington Fellow at Yale University.

He also hosted and programmed such radio stations WLIB and WNEW in New York, and several  award winning series for National Public Radio. In the early 1980s, Taylor became the arts correspondent for CBS Sunday Morning.

Dr. Billy Taylor was one of only three jazz musicians appointed to the National Council of the Arts, and also served as the Artistic Advisor for Jazz to the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, where he developed one acclaimed concert series after another including the Louis Armstrong Legacy series, and the annual Mary Lou Williams Women in Jazz Festival.

With over twenty three honorary doctoral degrees, Dr. Billy Taylor was also the recipient of two Peabody Awards, an Emmy, a Grammy and a host of prestigious and highly coveted prizes, such as the National Medal of Arts, the Tiffany Award, a Lifetime achievement Award from Downbeat Magazine, and, election to the Hall of Fame for the International Association for Jazz Education.

Dr. Taylor's survivors include his wife, Theodora and his daughter, Kim Taylor-Thompson.  A son, Duane, passed away in 1988.

http://www.billytaylorjazz.comFrom: Jazz Promo Services
Jim Eigo,
jazzpromo@earthlink.net


Musicians Memorials 2010

Donald Glen Vliet aka Captain Beefheart January 15th 1941 ~ December 17th 2010 Don Van Vliet, aka the legendary Captain Beefheart, one of the most influential and one of the most unique musicians in rock history, has sadly died at the age of 69 due to complications from multiple sclorosis. Don is survived by his loving wife of more than 40 years, Jan Van Vliet.

Rubén Basoalto July 9th 1947 ~ November 3rd 2010 Argentine rock icon, Rubén Basoalto, Vox Dei's one and only ever drummer has sadly died at the age of 63. He passed away in the Argerich Hospital, where he had been hospitalized for three weeks terminally ill with lung cancer. He leaves behind a loving family.

Jack Brokensha aka White Jack January 5th 1926 ~ October 28th 2010 Australian vibraphonist and percussionist, pillar of the Detroit jazz scene for over 40 years, Jack Brokensha, has sadly died in his home town of Sarasota, America, from congestive heart failure at the age of 84. He is survived by his wife, Shirley; daughters Brokensha Yaroch and Nicole Brokensha Squiers, and a grandson, Michael Gloff.

Solomon Burke March 21st 1940 ~ October 10th 2010 “The King of Rock 'N Soul," Solomon Burke has sadly died at the age of 70. He passed away from natural causes at Schiphol Airport in the Netherlands, immediately after his flight from Los Angeles to Amsterdam, where he had been due to perform to sold out show at Paradiso with Dutch band, De Dijk and spread his message of love. He has left behind a loving family including 14 daughters and 7 sons; 90 grandchildren and 19 great-grandchildren.

Eddie Fisher August 10th 1928 ~ September 22nd 2010 1950's icon, teenage idol, singer Eddie Fisher has sadly died at his home in Berkeley from complications after hip surgery. The 82 year old singer is survived by a large family including his four children Carrie and Todd from his marriage to Debbie Reynolds, and Joely and Tricia Leigh from his marriage to Connie Stevens.

William “Buddy" Collette August 6th 1921 ~ September 19th 2010 American West Coast jazz icon and advocate for the rights of African American musicians, Buddy Collette, has sadly died aged 89 at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in Los Angeles after suffering shortness of breath a day earlier. Buddy is survived by his daughters Cheryl, Veda and Crystal, his son Zan, eight grandchildren and nine great-grandchildren.

Alphonsus “Arrow" Cassell November 16th 1949 ~ September 15th 2010 After bravely battling illness for nearly two years, sadly Arrow, the King of Soca has died of pneumonia caused by complications of cerebral cancer, at his home in Lime Kiln on the Caribbean island of Montserrat. At the age 60 years, Arrow is survived by a loving family including his four children and two grandchildren.

Michael Been April 15th 1950 ~ August 19th 2010 American guitarist and vocalist for the Santa Cruz-based '80s cult band, the Call, Michael Been, died from a heart attack suffered while he was at Belgium's Pukkelpop Festival. The father of Black Rebel Motorcycle Club frontman Robert Been, he was only 60 years old.

Richie Hayward February 6th 1946 ~ August 12th 2010 American drummer best known to most as the long time drummer and founding member of the L.A. rock band Little Feat Richie Hayward has sadly lost his year long battle with liver cancer. He has left behind a loving family and his wife Shauna.
Jack Parnell August 6th 1923 ~ August 8th 2010 One of Britons greatest drummers, bandleader and TV composer, Jack Parnell, has sadly lost his brave battle with cancer. He died at his home in Southwold, Suffolk, just two days after his birthday, at the age of 87. He is survived by his wife Veronica, two daughters and three sons, two of whom are drummers.

Christoper Dagley 1972 ~ July 28th 2010 One of Britons top session drummers and member of The Ronnie Scott House Band, Christoper Dagley, has sadly died aged only 38. Tragically, Chris was killed while on his way home from a gig at the Ronnie Scott Club in the small hours, when his motorcycle crashed on the A40 dual carriageway near White City. He leaves behind a very loving family, including his wife Jan; three beautiful young daughters, Lewis, Lucy and Louise; and his mum and dad, Molly and David.

Harvey Fuqua July 27th 1929 ~ July 6th 2010 The legendary soul singer, songwriter, record producer and record label executive Harvey Fuqua, founder of The Moonglows, has sadly died in a Detroit hospital of a heart attack at the age of 80.

Stuart Cable May 19th 1970 ~ June 7th 2010 Welsh rock drummer, Stuart Cable, founder member and original drummer for the band Stereophonics has tragically been found dead at his home in Llwydcoed. It is said, 40 year old Stuart had been drinking with friends, and South Wales Police had ruled out any suspicious circumstances being involved in the death, but a post mortem is yet to be conducted to officially determine the exact cause of death. He is survived and sadly missed by his two children, his brother and mother.

Marvin Isley August 18th 1953 ~ June 6th 2010 American bassist Marvin Isley, the youngest member of the American R&B band, the Isley Brothers, has sadley died, aged 56. He passed away at a hospice near his home in Chicago, from complications of diabetes from which he had suffered from for more than 20 years. Marvin is survived by a loving family, including his wife, a son and two daughters.

Ali-Ollie Woodson September 12th 1951 ~ May 30th 2010 Ali-Ollie Woodson, who led the legendary Motown quintet The Temptations in the '80s and '90s and helped restore them to their hit-making glory has sadly passed away after battling leukemia for 18 months. The 58 year old musician leaves behind his wife, Juanita; two children Aj and Aliah Woodson; and a granddaughter.

Siphiwo Ntshebe June 28th 1974 ~ May 25th 2010 South African opera singer, Siphiwo Ntshebe, a favourite of Nelson Mandela, has died unexpectedly at the age of only 35. Siphiwo, sadly died at Livingstone Hospital after contracting acute bacterial meningitis. He is survived by a lovimg family including his mother, Lulama, two brothers and a sister.

Ronnie James Dio July 10th 1942 ~ May 16th 2010 Rock hero and legend, Ronnie James Dio, one of the greatest voices in all of heavy metal, has sadly lost his brave fight with stomach cancer. He passed peacefully at the age of 67, leaving behind his wife and manager, Wendy Galaxiola and his son Dan, adopted in his previous marriage to Loretta Berardi.

Lena Horn June 30th 1917 ~ May 9th 2010 American jazz singer and actress Lena Horne has sadly passed away in the New York—Presbyterian Hospital in New York City at the grand age of 92. Renowned for her beauty and sultry voice, Lena battled against racial segregation to become Hollywood's first black sex symbol. She leaves behind a loving family including her daughter Gail Jones, later known as Gail Lumet Buckley; a grandson, Teddy Jones and granddaughters, Lena Jones and Jenny Lumet. Tragically her son Edwin Jones died from kidney disease in 1970.

Malcolm McLaren January 22nd 1946—April 8th 2010 The godfather of punk, impresario Malcolm McLaren, has passed away in a Swiss Clinic after a brave battle with cancer. The charismatic 64 year old prankster and former manager of the Sex Pistols sadly leaves behind his girlfriend Young Kim and his son to ex-wife Vivienne Westwood, Joseph Ferdinand Corré.

Johnny Maestro May 7th 1939 ~ March 24th 2010 American legenary rock 'n' roll and doo-wop singer Johnny Maestro, who fronted the Crests with the classic hit “16 Candles" and has also fronted The Brooklyn Bridge for over four decades has sadly died at the age of 70 after bravely battling cancer. He leaves behind a loving family, loyal friends and many fans.

Micky Jones June 7th 1946 ~ March 10th 2010 Welsh singer and guitarist with the legendary Welsh pychedelic, progressive rock, blues and country-rock band “Man," Micky Jones, has passed away peacefully at the age of 63. Sadly Micky has been in hospital over the last 5 years due to the re-occurrence of a brain tumour. He leaves behind a loving family and legacy in his son, George, who plays guitar in the current lineup of Man and with The Spectaculars.

Mark Linkous 1962 ~ March 6th 2010 Sadly, Mark Linkous multi-musician, singer songwriter of Sparklehorse, has taken his own life. Tragically the talented 47 year old musician shot himself in the heart while in Knoxville, Tennessee. He leaves behind his wife Teresa, his parents, and three brothers.

Sir John Dankworth September 20th 1927 ~ February 6th 2010 English jazz icon, composer, saxophonist, clarinetist and musical arranger, Johnny Dankworth, has sadly died in King Edward VII Hospital, London after being ill for several months. At the age of 83, he leaves behind a close and loving family including his wife jazz singer Cleo Laine, their son jazz bassist, Alec and their daughter, jazz singer Jacqui.

Kate McGarrigle February 6th 1946 ~ January 18th 2010 Canadian singer songwriter and folk music musician Kate McGarrigle has sadly passed away at the age of 63 after battling cancer since the summer of 2006. She leaves behind a loving family, two sisters Jane and her life long singing partner sister Anna, and a son and daughter, both fine legacies to her, Rufus and Martha Wainwright, who like their mother, are singers.

Bernard Wilson Baritone vocalist and a member of the Philly soul act Harold Melvin and the Blue Notes, died Dec. 26 from undisclosed medical complications at Kresson View Center in Voorhees, NJ. He was 64.

Lina Romay Sang with the Latin-inflected Xavier (ig-ZAY'-vee-yur) Cugat orchestra in the early 1940s before beginning a decade-long career as a film and TV actress, has died. She was 91. Romay began her entertainment career by touring as the Cugat orchestra's lead singer. A performance with the orchestra in the 1942 Fred Astaire and Rita Hayworth film “You Were Never Lovelier" led to roles in some 15 other films and appearances on the Milton Berle Show, the Red Skelton Show and other TV programs.

Rusty McNeil U.S. folk-music historian. Raising their children and several dogs in a converted school bus, the couple toured the country for 15 years, teaching its history through its grass-roots music. Keith and Rusty McNeil, as they billed themselves, traveled the United States for 15 years on the bus, raising their children and a succession of dogs as they forged a career teaching American history through folk music. Rusty McNeil died Dec. 15 at her home in Riverside of complications from a stroke she had in early 2009, said her son David. She was 81.

Trudy Pitts (1932-2010) Hammond B3 organist with a swirling, stinging style rich with technique and whose attack on the instrument was as aggressive as many of her male counterparts, died December 19. She was 78.

Teena Marie R&B singer-songwriter a protege of funk singer Rick James, was one of the few white musicians to score hits on the R&B charts, with 'I Need Your Lovin' and 'Lovergirl' in the '80s. Reviewing her performance in 1981 at the Long Beach Arena, Dennis Hunt wrote in The Times: “A tiny young woman with a powerful voice, Marie is a terrific singer and, quite frankly, better than nearly all her black competitors."

Complete on  >>  http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/news.php?id=72870

Jazz this week: New Year's Eve in St. Louis

As noted in this space last week, most touring jazz performers are off the road this time of year, and many of St. Louis' not-for-profit venues that present jazz are on hiatus until the new year as well.

Most notably, Jazz at the Bistro, the city's most prominent spot for live jazz, will be dark again this weekend as the First Night celebration takes place in the surrounding Grand Center district.

So, given all that, what options are available for someone who'd like to hear some jazz this New Year's Eve in St. Louis?

Well, once place to look would be the aforementioned First Night. Billed as a family-friendly, alcohol-free event, First Night offers a variety of entertainment both outdoors on the streets of Grand Center and indoors at various venues around the district for a single price. This year's indoor performance spaces include the Sheldon Concert Hall and Ballroom, Kranzberg Arts Center, the Grandel Theatre, Third Baptist Church, SLU's Busch Student Center, St. Francis Xavier College Church, and the Scottish Rite Auditorium. (Powell Hall is not included, as the Symphony has its own New Year's Eve concert scheduled.)

Complete on: http://stljazznotes.blogspot.com/2010/12/jazz-this-week-new-years-eve-in-st.html

The Best of 2010....

The results of the Village Voice year-end critics' poll are out today, and as the poll's organizer, Francis Davis, points out, it was Jason Moran's year.

You can follow the link to my ballot from Francis' article, but here it is, slightly annotated:

Top 10 New Releases

1. Jason Moran & The Bandwagon – Ten (Blue Note)
I fell in love with Moran's trio the first time I saw it live, and this recording captures everything that is great about it—the rhythmic movement, the leader's tremendous imagination regarding reharmonization, and the scope of his vision in terms of what constitutes terrific repertoire. I didn't get a chance to write about this CD, and I'm almost glad I didn't because I keep finding more things to love about it.

2. Rova & Nels Cline Singers – Celestial Septet (New World)
I did review this sprawling and engrossing release, and wonder if many of my colleagues discovered it, given that it seems not to have made a ripple. Here's how I summarized it in my DownBeat review: "There is much to explore here, and no shortage of high emotion and ecstatic release." If you haven't heard it, give it a shot.

3. Vijay Iyer – Solo (ACT)
It seems like a long, long time ago that I first encountered Vijay Iyer online during the very early days of the internet, and I can't think of another musician I've enjoyed hearing develop as much. His solo recording allows you to really savor the way he finds his way through a song. Like Moran, his vision is singular, and like Moran, he has demonstrated time and again that he has the stuff to stand beside any of the giants who influenced him. Anyone who still thinks contemporary jazz is in bad shape needs to be tied to chair with Iyer and Moran on repeat.

4. Paul Motian Trio – Lost In A Dream (ECM)
Beautiful, simply beautiful.

5. Mary Halvorson Quintet – Saturn Sings (Firehouse 12)
Halvorson won me over last year with her trio recording and work with Anthony Braxton, and Saturn Sings finds her expanding her scope and cementing her signature sound.

6. Kurt Rosenwinkel & OJM – Our Secret World (Word Of Mouth)
This is a relatively late release that I reviewed for DownBeat, and I was surprised by how much I liked it. I haven't enjoyed anything by Rosenwinkel as much as I liked his early work with Paul Motian, and I don't usually dig brassy big bands, but this combination really works. I was knocked out by the arrangements and the engineering, which allows Rosenwinkel's guitar to soar over the orchestra with as much clout as an entire horn section. I think my friend Peter Hum and I were the only ones who picked this, and we didn't even discuss it. Was it only released in Ottawa, or what?

7. Tomasz Stanko Quintet – Dark Eyes (ECM)
I came to Stanko late, but 20 years after the death of Miles Davis he has become the trumpeter who consistently moves me. I caught him live this summer for the first time—and had the honour of emceeing his show—and wasn't disappointed in the emotion he brings to his music. Always great to hear an older musician finding young associates, too.

8. Steve Coleman & Five Elements – Harvesting Semblances And Affinities (Pi)
I saw this band a few years ago, playing this same music, and hated it. Walked out, in fact! This recording has all the focus and shape that were missing in that concert, and I'm looking forward with anticipation to the next instalment of this music that Coleman is developing.

9. Ray Anderson/Marty Ehrlich Quartet – Hear You Say: Live In Willisau (Intuition)
This is another recording that dropped fairly late in the year. I hope people discover it, because it reminded me of a lot of the recordings I fell in love with—by David Murray, Henry Threadgill, Arthur Blythe and others—in the early 1980s. Great to hear Ray Anderson sounding so energized, and Marty Ehrlich is always a joy.

10. Allison Miller – Boom Tic Boom (Foxhaven)
I'm a bit surprised that this recording didn't rank higher with my fellow critics. Myra Melford kills on it, and the compositions are tremendously engaging.

Reissues
1. Henry Threadgill – Novus & Columbia Recordings Of Henry Threadgill & Air (Mosaic)
2. John Carter & Bobby Bradford – The Complete Revelation Sessions (Mosaic Select)
3. Miles Davis – Bitches Brew (Columbia Legacy)

Best Vocal CD
Rebecca Martin – When I Was Long Ago (Sunnyside)

Debut CD
Tania Gill – Bolger Station (Barnyard)

Latin Jazz CD
Marco Pereira – Essence (Kind Of Blue)

Addendum: You can peruse the entire top 50 here


Jazz Enthusiasts To Enjoy The Best Of Jazz Music...

Jazz Enthusiasts To Enjoy The Best Of Jazz Music Throughout Seven Nights At The Du Jazz Garden Starting February 8th, 2011 At Dubai Media City Amhitheater

The 3rd edition of the popular du Jazz Garden is to kick off at the Dubai Media City Amphitheater on the night of February 8th, 2011 with exciting Jazz music shows supported by the British Council in Dubai and the UK Jazz services and a great collection of Trippin “N" Rhythm record artists. Jazz fans can enjoy a wide selection of unique performances throughout 7 consecutive nights.

From legends to contemporary professional Jazz performers and musicians, a total of 14 bands will share the best of their music stock. The bands that will perform during this year's festival come from multi—cultural backgrounds and varied influences, with loaded repertoires and musical achievements.

The du Jazz Garden theme in 2011 is to portray the best of the UK Jazz scene with the support of the British Council in Dubai and the UK Jazz services providing a line-up of great jazzy names to participate at this year's festival promoting and further introducing the Jazz scene of the United Kingdom; the hub of the best Jazz music professionals. The rich list of artists include Arun Ghosh Cleveland Watkiss, Get The Blessing, Ian Shaw, Neil Cowley Trio, Soweto Kinch, and a very special feature of Ronnie Scott's Jam Night with James Pierson and Natalie Williams.

Each of the 7 nights will host 2 shows; first show to start at 8:00pm and the second at 9:30pm. The opening acts to host a UK Jazz Band, heading straight from the capital of music and art, with lots and lots to offer in terms of Jazz music culture. Second shows, will feature smooth Jazz artists—of the Trippin “N" Rhythm Records—which provided an attractive line-up for the Jazz Garden in 2010, appealing to an ascending fan base of this genre. For the 3rd edition of the du Jazz Garden, Trippin “N" Rhythm records will bring another outstanding line-up including Nate Harasim, Marion Meadows, Bob Baldwin, Down To The Bone, Darren Rahn, Julian Vaughn and Elizabeth Mis.

Complete on: http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/news.php?id=72863

Baritone Who Helped Define Philly Soul Dies





Philadelphia International success
This incarnation of the group, including Melvin, Pendergrass, Bernard Wilson, Lawrence Brown, and Lloyd Parks, were signed to Kenneth Gamble & Leon Huff's Philadelphia International label in 1972, and scored several major R&B hits over the next four years. Among the Blue Notes' most important and successful recordings are love songs such as "If You Don't Know Me By Now" (1972, their breakout single), "I Miss You" (1972), "The Love I Lost" (1973), and "Don't Leave Me This Way" (1975), and socially conscious songs such as "Wake Up Everybody" and "Bad Luck" (both 1975). "Bad Luck" holds the record for longest-running number-one hit on the Hot Dance Music/Club Play chart: eleven weeks. A 1976 cover of "Don't Leave Me This Way" by Motown artist Thelma Houston was a number-one hit on the US pop chart; both it and the Blue Notes' originals are considered defining recordings of the disco era.

Complete comments on http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G7wvUnJEgho

Barry Galbraith: Guitar and the Wind

Reprinted from http|://jazzwax.com

Over the course of his career, guitarist Barry Galbraith Galbraith_wind_pic appeared on 594 recording sessions. Yet he made only one album as a featured leader—Guitar and the Wind. The album was recorded over three days in January 1958 for Decca. The fact that Galbraith didn't record more extensively as a featured soloist for Decca and other labels is unfortunate.

There are only two possible explanations for Galbraith's lack of spotlight time: Either he was too busy as an East Coast sideman (he was recording virtually every other day at the time) or he was introspective and more comfortable in a group setting. The answer, according to Hal McKusick, who knew Galbraith well, is both.

What makes Galbraith's lack of output notably disheartening is the exceptional quality of Guitar and the Wind. Guitar and the Wind Galbraith's ability rested not in speed or technique—though he was capable of both. Instead, Galbraith was about extraordinary chord voicings and swinging harmony lines. His sound also was strong and large, with enormous confidence. Guitar and the Wind not only demonstrates this side of Galbraith but also features two superb orchestras behind him on the different recording dates.

The first and third sessions featured Urbie Green, Chauncey Welsch and Frank Rehak (trombones); Dick Hixson Images (bass trombone); Bobby Jaspar (flute and tenor sax); Eddie Costa (piano and vibes); Barry Galbraith (guitar); Milt Hinton (bass) and Osie Johnson (drums), with Billy Byers arranging.

The second session featured Bobby Jaspar (flute and tenor sax); Phil Bodner, Romeo Penque and Spencer Sinatra (reeds); Eddie Costa (piano and vibes); Barry Galbraith (guitar); Milt Hinton (bass) and Osie Johnson (drums), with Al Cohn arranging.
The "wind" on both sessions was Bobby Jaspar on flute, though Cohn's charts triple up on flutes on some Bill_byers tracks. The sound of Galbraith with flutes is positively gorgeous, particularly on I Like to Recognize the Tune. Other tracks feature superb trombone arranging by Byers [pictured], particularly on Anyplace I Hang My Hat.

Hal McKusick knew Galbraith well, both as a session-mate and as a member of Hal's own groups. Here's what Hal shared with me yesterday:

"You're assumption is correct: Barry was content to be busy 6a00e008dca1f088340111689b64d5970c-200wi doing all the dates he did. A wise a&r man would have been wise to capture his talent on many albums, in different settings, but sadly it was not to be.

"Barry was very organized with his time. He would go home after a day of recording, with a night gig added in some cases, and practice classical and other pieces in his basement. He was a truly dedicated musician, quiet, efficient and a great sight-reader. He also had the finest taste in phrasing, articulation and voicings.

"We spent many hours at his home (when he lived on Long Island) exploring songs and working out ensemble sounds 1ae7_1 with guitar and alto. That was the beginning of my recording career as a leader, utilizing what we had discovered together.

"Barry is one of the great unsung heroes in music, known and respected by those who are aware of his contribution and terrific musical ability."
If you dig Galbraith, you have 593 recording sessions to choose from. If you want to hear his brilliance up close, you have just Guitar and the Wind.

JazzWax tracks: Barry Galbraith's Guitar and the Wind is 51l8LdLAxqL._SL500_AA300_ hidden at Amazon on a two-fer release from LoneHill called The Manhattan Jazz Septette, a group led by Oscar Pettiford and recorded in June 1956 that included Hal and Galbraith. You'll find the CD here.

If you're still craving pure Galbraith, you'll find him on three tracks on Guitar Soul Soul+gtr+front+web (Status), recorded in May 1957 with Kenny Burrell on guitar, Leonard Gaskin on bass and Bobby Donaldson on drums. The three tracks are Billie's Bounce, Prelude to a Kiss and It Don't Mean a Thing. Remaining tracks feature other guitarists. Unfortunately, this album is rare and doesn't seem to have made its way onto CD yet.

JazzWax clip: Here's Barry Galbraith soloing on Love Is for the Very Young (also known as the theme to The Bad and the Beautiful), from Guitar and the Wind...

Used with permission by Marc Myers
http://www.jazzwax.com/2010/12/barry-galbraith-guitar-and-the-wind.html

Tuesday, December 28, 2010

Jazz & Blues Florida Janaury 2011 Online Edition

The January edition of JAZZ & BLUES FLORIDA.

Winning spin: Keith Jarrett and Charlie Haden's Jasmine
Christian McBride and Inside Straight
Doug & Jean Carn
Dr. John and the Neville Bros
Kevin Mahogany
Marcia Ball with Julie Black
Norman Simmons
Ray "Blues Man" Schinnery
Rebecca Richardson
Rev. Raven & The Chain Smoking Alter Boys

From: Charles R. Boyer, Publisher (www.JazzBluesFlorida.com)

Monday, December 27, 2010

First Listen: Abigail Washburn, 'City Of Refuge'

Isn’t there a saying about best laid plans going awry? Well, Abigail Washburn had a plan — and it was a good, solid plan. She was going to head to Beijing,  study law and continue to make music on the side. Instead, she got a record deal, her group Uncle Earl took off and her debut solo recording, The Song of the Traveling Daughter, blew everyone away. In this case, it was a best laid plan that got better. Photo: Courtesy of the artist

Once again, Washburn is changing lanes in the musical world: "This new project," she says, "incorporates what would've in the beginning of my career seemed like an unexpected move." That move takes her outside of the her comfortable folk and roots sound and pushes her toward a more rock and pop feel. She chose the ideal producer for this journey in Tucker Martine (The Decemberists, Spoon, Sufjan Stevens).

City of Refuge showcases Washburn's lyrics and voice more than her previous recordings. In "Burn Through," she convincingly plays a tough character who isn't "going down with the rest of you." She also sparkles in the role of a troubled soul trying to figure things out in "Last Train," which also features a remarkable turn by fiddler Rayna Gellert.

Complete on:  http://www.npr.org/2010/12/27/131905820/first-listen-abigail-washburn-city-of-refuge&sc=nl&cc=mn-20101227

Joe Lovano - Bird Songs



Joe Lovano's new Blue Note recording, "Bird Songs," an exploration of the music of Charlie Parker featuring Us Five, drops January 11. Check out the live NPR Webcast from the Village Vanguard celebrating "Bird Songs" with Joe and the band on Wednesday night, January 12.

Umbria Winter Jazz Festival - Orvieto, Italy


Dee Alexander
Umbria Winter Jazz Festival - Orvieto, Italy
WhenDec 29,  2010 - Jan 2 , 2011
Where Orvieto, Italy

Umbria Jazz Winter Festival is held, yearly, for more than fifteen years. The winter festival warms the heart of Jazz lovers who gather in Orvieto for five days of most qualified jazz with the participation of the best performers.

The events which take place in end December - start January are a marvelous musical starter for the New Year celebrations. Lot of jazz lovers enjoy more than hundred musical events which are held in various venues over the city.

From the morning until night, concerts of various styles and compositions take place. Some of the events are free of charge (it is recommended to get the festival's program for updates). This is a great winter fiesta for music lovers and jazz lovers in particular who attend Italy in the end of the year.

info@umbriajazz.com
Umbria Jazz
Piazza Danti, 28
06122 Perugia
Phone: + 39 075 5732432
fax: + 39 075 5722656

Walter Norris, Classical piano studies with John H. Summers from age four

Classical piano studies with John H. Summers from age four and a half until eighteen. Working professionally (`44-`50) with Howard William’s 19 piece band in Little Rock; also in '49 with Bitsy Mullin's tentet. After graduating from High School, June `50, he joined Mose Allison’s Quartet but left in August `50 to serve with the U.S. Air Force in Japan and Korea.

Returning from Asia, summer of `52, he was engaged for six months with Jimmy Ford’s Quartet in Houston, Texas. In `53, he formed a trio for his nine month stay at the El Morocco in Las Vegas before moving on to Los Angeles where he worked in the quartets of Stan Getz, Dexter Gordon, Johnny Griffin, Teddy Edwards, Zoot Sims, Howard McGhee, Buddy DeFranco, Herb Geller, Charlie Ventura; plus the quintets of Frank Rosolino-Charlie Mariano, Ornette Coleman-Don Cherry and Shorty Rodgers-Bill Holman... all during the period between '54 and '60.
 
Next, he journeyed to New York spending '60-'62 at the Embers and Roundtable as intermission pianist. He also joined, in '61, bassist, Hal Gaylor and guitarist, Billy Bean to record 'The Trio' for Riverside Records before accepting employment as pianist and eventually Musical Director of the New York Playboy Club from '63 until '70. During this time, he attended Manhattan School Of Music where he studied, as piano major, five and a half years with Heida Hermanns and continued further studies, privately, with pianist, Linda Kessler-Ferri of New York City.
 
After four years of freelancing and teaching, he joined the Thad Jones-Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra which toured throughout the United States, three times in Europe, Scandinavia twice and once in Japan. He left the Jones-Lewis Orchestra in Munich, January `76, for seven months in Scandinavia playing solo, duo with Red Mitchell, in quartet with Dexter Gordon and quintet ...

Complete on  >>  http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/musician.php?id=9910#articles



WALTER NORRIS DUO:
-Walter Norris/piano
-Mike Richmond/bass
Album: From Another Star

Jean-Pierre Leloir 1931-2010: A Tribute


French photographer Jean-Pierre Leloir who for the past six decades recorded images of jazz musicians on the Paris scene died in 21 December 2010 evening at his Paris home. The news was announced by his daughter. Some of his most famous photos can be seen on his site. A book of his jazz photos 'Portraits Jazz' was published two months ago. (Photo above)

A Sad Note: Jack Tracy Is Gone

Jack Tracy died on Tuesday, December 21. He was 84. Jack was editor of DownBeat magazine in the 1950s and went on to a second career producing fine jazz recordings. He was a frequent Rifftides commenter. We shall miss his knowledge, pointed observations, humor and friendship.
From: http://www.artsjournal.com/rifftides/2010/12/a_sad_note_jack_tracy_is_gone.html



A tribute to Jack Tracy, former editor of "Down Beat" magazine, Jazz record producer and a friend of Jazz. Vibraphonist Victor Feldman performing his original composition "Too Blue" with Scott LaFaro on bass and Stan levey on drums.

Sunday, December 26, 2010

Gadi Lehavi Trio

Gadi Lehavi is an example of pure gift and amazing talent.
Gadi was born in Tel-Aviv, Israel (1996), on 29 of April (The same day as the legendary Duke Ellington). He started flirting with the piano when he was only six month old, hazarding on the seat to try the keys and this soon became one of his main natural ways of expression.

He gradually developed his musical abilities, playing by ear, musical pieces he heard. Since he was naturally also attracted to improvisation, he soon grew a particular interest in jazz and Latin music. A few weeks before he get 9 years old, Gadi began to take regular lessons in classical music and theory with Dr. Michal Tal – a renowned classical pianist and a graduate of the famous “Julliard school of Music” in New York. A year after, Gadi also began to take jazz lessons with Rami Levin - Head of Piano Departments at “RIMON” School of Jazz & contemporary music.

Following attendance at the age of 12 at a jazz workshop in Eilat, in 2008, he was invited to perform at the “Red Sea Jazz festival”. In 2009, he attended the five weeks program at “Berklee College of Music” in Boston and had the great privilege of working under the guidance of Phil Wilson, who gave him the chance to perform the solo piece at the final Blowout concert.

aking advantage of the stay in USA, his mother brought him to New York City, where was given him the chance to show his skills in some renowned NY jazz clubs, immediactely catching the attention of famous jazz musicians, such as Ravi Coltrane and Dave Liebmann. His appearane in Youtube, with a solo performance in SMOKE Jazz Club, in few weeks had more than 10.000 viewers, something extraordinary for a young jazz pianist. In the same year he won the first prize at the “Turgman” contest for young pianists.

FM&PJazz is proud and satisfied to have given the first opportunity for Gadi Lehavi present regular concerts in 2010 in traditional jazz festivals in Europe, such as April Jazz (FI), Jazzkaar (EE) and Kaunas Jazz Festival (LT). The feedback from the press, audience and critic was awesome! Gadi Lehavi has a very rare capacity of improvisation and creation fulltime.

The same repertoire never is played in the same way, mood, or tonality. Further, Gadi is the arranger of all pieces and also play some own compositions in the concert. The two fellows who join Gadi Lehavi Trio are of a very high level as well: Itay Morchi (drums) and Max Oleartchik (bass and son of the legendary bass player Alon Oleartchik) Gadi, just after complete 14 years old, in 29th April 2010, performs regularly with jazz ensembles at jazz clubs and venues in Tel-Aviv. He is also an active classical pianist and performed with “Hasharon” symphonic orchestra.

LINE-UP:
Gadi Lehavi (piano)
Max Oleartchik (bass)
Itay Morchi (drums)


The spirit of the great bassist and composer Charles Mingus....


The spirit of the great bassist and composer Charles Mingus looms large over these recordings, no small feat for a scrappy band of musicians trying to record large scale music in a difficult economic environment. The powerful and well integrated group consists of Lane on bass, Avram Fefer on alto saxophone, David Bindman and Matt Bauder on tenor saxophone, Igal Foni on drums, Reut Regev and Tim Vaughn on trombone and Taylor Ho Bynun on trumpet.

It's a compact and powerful unit that attacks the music with great verve, getting a wide variety of musical color in their palette. The artistic analogy comes through nicely in the opener, “Imaginary Portrait" where lush horns open over bass and drums, before strong trumpet comes to the fore over propulsive riffing. Bass and trumpet have their own section, exploring the dynamics of the music. “Marshal" slows things down with a spare and longing feel to the music. Lane's elastic bass centers the ebb and flow of the subtle atmosphere.
Complete on >> http://www.allaboutjazz.com/php/news.php?id=72766



Bassist, Adam Lane is featured in this trio with Reut Reger - trombone and IgaL Foni - drums. The show was filmed on March 21, 2010 @ Goodbye Blue Monday. This is the first piece the group performed. Hope you like it.

New York City Jazz Guitar virtuoso, composer and bandleader Sten Hostfalt

Groundbreaking - Jazz Review
Editor's Pick - Guitar Player
Impressive - Time Out NY
Inimitable - Paper Magazine
Virtuosic
- Joe Maneri
Highly Exceptional Jimmy Giuffre
ew York City Jazz Guitar virtuoso, composer and bandleader Sten Hostfalt is internationally recognized as one of few musicians worldwide to regularly live in concert systematically explore, create and perform new original music beyond the tempered 12-tone system. With self-invented new interpretative techniques for the standard 6 string/12 fret guitar. Expanding and updating the vocabulary & practice for todays most played, most popular instrument.

First introduced on the mid-90's NYC Jazz scene as an original member of and featured soloist with Guillermo Klein's Pioneering Ensemble. In weekly appearances alongside Mark Turner, Chris Cheek, Ingrid Jensen, Jeff Ballard, Seamus Blake and Aaron Goldberg. At an always packed Small's Jazz Club during the inception of Mitch Borden's since so influential venue. Through studies with Jimmy Giuffre, Joe Maneri and Paul Bley. Composition Master Classes with Toru Takemitsu and Gyorgi Ligeti. Performances with Peter Erskine, Clare Fischer and Gary Burton. And as an apprentice in Traditional Large Jazz Orchestras led by Herb Pomeroy, Phil Wilson and George Russell.




Sten Hostfalt - guitar/compositions,
Ole Mathisen - tenor saxophone,
Tim Luntzel - bass,
Dave Miller - drums,
Kenny Young - video

While freely operating in contexts from Mainstream/Contemporary and Avant Jazz to Pop. Drawing upon an initially self-taught technique, and a vocabulary informed by an activity on the 80's European DIY independent progressive scene. Mixed with Classical instrumental training and composition studies with legendary Icons of American Music Jimmy Giuffre, Paul Bley and Joe Maneri.

Currently as a critically acclaimed New York City based bandleader, building on a creative contribution to the U.S. East Coast since 1989 and to the NYC scene since 1994. For the past fifteen years enthusiastically featured in major press including JAZZ TIMES MAGAZINE, NEW YORK TIMES and ALL MUSIC GUIDE for work as a sideman alongside some of the world's most innovative musicians. Just out with the CD 'QUARTET', that focuses on original compositions based on Jazz Standards in the traditional song format.

Having picked the guitar up at age 9, and initially self taught, until classical guitar studies from age 16. He was shaped by an active participation on the local 80's DIY progressive music scene. As well as through hearing Big Joe Williams, Frank Zappa, Miles Davis, Joe Henderson, Don Cherry, Gatemouth Brown, James Blood Ulmer, Jack DeJohnette, McCoy Tyner, Pat Metheny, Dewey Reman, Don Pullen, George Adams, Arthur Blythe, Kelvyn Bell and Weather Report with Shorter, Zawinul and Jaco Pastorious live in concert.

Through local media features recognized as and labeled a 'Guitar Phenom'.
He was transplanted from his native Sweden to the USA, through multiple scholarship awards from two of the world's most Prestigious Schools for Modern Music, New England Conservatory and Berklee College Of Music. Participating in composition masterclasses with Toru Takemitsu and Gyorgi Ligeti. Before receiving a Master Of Music Degree in Composition, A Graduate Diploma in Performance and a Bachelor of Music Degree with honors.

Sten Hostfalt has toured South America, USA and Europe. And with a history of independent releases since the 1981 debute as a co-leader, featured soloist and composer. On his own record label(s), to much critical acclaim, Released four ( 4 ) CD's as a leader, received numerous Artist Awards. Including one from ASCAP for the landmark '02 Solo Concert CD release 29 Pieces For The Microtonal Guitar Live, Knitting Factory New York. And has ever since 1991 appeared in shared concert events with modern music greats Niels Henning Orsted Pedersen, James Moody, Mike Stern, MOBY, Tim Berne, Keith Murray (DEF SQUAD), Rob McConnell, Bobby Shew, Lunachicks and Deborah Brown.

Also highly active as a music educator ever since 1984.Sten Hostfalt is a CUNY, City University of New York, Queensborough Community College faculty member and former faculty (2001-05) of The Royal College Of  Music in Stockholm, Kungliga Musikhogskolan - one of the world's oldest music conservatories. As well as since 1992, an invited clinican at alma maters New England Conservatory and Berklee College Of Music.

Also faculty of N Y Jazz Academy, and a NY Department of Education registered vendor catering to students at Columbia University, New York University and Juilliard Music School, he has notably since 2006 directed his Upper Manhattan based creative Music workshop NYC Guitar Studio. One of few institutions worldwide offering systematic microtonal guitar and music studies.

Ben Wilkins: Piano Pop, Beautifully Arranged




The first music video made for the release of Ben Wilkins' "Back of My Head" EP.
Directed by Xuan Pham
Produced by Xuan Pham, Adrien Le Grand, Pascal Shefteshy, Fabrice Bouty, Julien Duez
Visual effects supervision by Xuan Pham
Music supervision by Pascal Shefteshy
Special thanks to Benoît at Cafe Dépanneur.

Matt Bauder

Several years ago, I was struck by the innovative beauty of "Memorize The Sky", a trio album with Matt Bauder on sax, and he has figured on some of the best albums of the last years, by Harris Eisenstadt, The Exploding Star Orchestra, Taylor Ho Bynum, Adam Lane. This year, he released two albums as a leader, and I must say, both albums bring us into yet again totally different musical univserses.

Matt Bauder - Days In Pictures (Clean Feed, 2010) ***½

 
On "Day In Pictures", Bauder brings his own music, one that sounds at first hearing like mainstream jazz of the fifties, both in terms of the themes, the sounds of the instruments, the harmonics, the rhythms.

So, quite accessible music, pleasant to the ear, with excellent playing by musicians Bauder's been playing with over the years : Angelica Sanchez on piano, Jason Ajemian on bass, Nate Wooley on trumpet, and Tomas Fujiwara on drums. The fun thing is that these guys play this music, with a kind of reverence of their masters, the giants on whose shoulders they stand, but it would be boring if it stayed like that.

As easily, they deconstruct the music, let go of explicit structures, by adding complexities or even by totally abandoning the foundations they're standing on, taking the music out into more stratospheric regions, or using sounds that would have been unthinkable some decades ago. The end result is not boundary-shifting, but the playing is so good and full of joy that it is really easy to recommend. Highly enjoyable.

Listen and download from eMusic.
Complete on  >>  http://freejazz-stef.blogspot.com/2010/12/matt-bauder.html



Matt Bauder Quintet playing in Oakland, California. Matt Bauder, tenor sax; Aram Shelton, alto sax; Roger Riedlbauer, guitar; Eric Perney, bass; Jordan Glenn, drums. Playing "Cleopatra" by Bauder.

The Dave Liebman Group - Turnaround: The Music of Ornette Coleman

Veteran saxophonist and flute player Dave Liebman is most well known for his interpretations of the music of John Coltrane and his former employer Miles Davis. This album covers the music of free jazz saxophone pioneer Ornette Coleman, and Liebman and his group with Vic Juris on guitar, Tony Marino on bass and Marko Marcinko on drums and percussion take a fresh approach to Coleman's music, one that is quite successful.

Most of the songs on this collection come from Coleman's tenure with Atlantic Records during the late 50's and early 60's and "Enfant" and "Turnaround" set the stage with agile playing on the knotty themes Coleman was famous for. "Kathelin Grey" begins with delicate acoustic guitar and evolves into a beautiful and melodic ballad featuring a lot of open space. Liebman moves to soprano saxophone for "Bird Food" meshing his swirling sax with swinging guitar, then giving way to a rumbling fast drum solo.

Coleman's famous composition "Lonely Woman" is a highlight of this set, as it is completely re-imagined featuring spare and spacey flute and electric guitar giving the music the feeling of a shamanistic ritual.

Complete on  >>  http://jazzandblues.blogspot.com/2010/12/dave-liebman-group-turnaround-music-of.html


Jazz artist David Liebman plays Autumn Leaves with 13-year-old Gadi Lehavi. Filmed live in a jam session, January 2010.

Omaggio a Noah Howard (1943-2010).

Noah Howard was born on April 6, 1943, in the legendary New Orleans. As a child, became involved with music, being long a boys' choir of the Baptist Church. The trumpet, who played until the early '60s while he was serving in the army, went to alto sax, which became his instrument for life. His first big surprise was in a sound presentation of saxophonist Paul Gonsalves, when I was thirteen. Since then, I knew: it would make music his career. 



Not satisfied with what the New Orleans offered loudly, left his hometown of Mecca towards the nascent free jazz: New York. Once in the metropolis, he was greeted first by Sun Ra, who sheltered in his "Arkestra". The things that happened to quickly for the young saxophonist, at the beginning of 66, aged 22, would record his first session as leader. Who opened the door for Howard was Albert Ayler, who had been recommended to close and seal the ESP, who issued their debut. In the same year came the second offspring ("At Judson Hall"). Saxophonist close the decade with one of his greatest works, "Black Ark", 69.
 
But this apparent rapid rise never meant success or stability. Given the difficulties in surviving in their country, making music in which he believed, Howard began to concentrate increasingly in Europe: in 69 departed for Paris, where he spent much of the period extending up to 71. Together with his friend Frank Wright at that time formed a spectacular quartet that had no bottom, besides the two saxes, with battery (especially Muhammad Ali) and pianist Bobby Few.
 
This group is apparent in Wright's historic albums such as "Church Number Nine," "One for John" and "The Uhuru Umoja" (Howard says that the session "The Uhuru Umoja" was actually his, not Wright was credited as the disk. Howard would have gone into the studio with Art Taylor, with several songs written and just inviting Wright to attend the gig).
 
In 2006 interview, Howard recalled the period:
"Frank Wright went over to play with another band, But Me and Bobby Muhammad and cam together, and then we co-opted him and Brought him into The Thing. It was a strange thing, because we did not Have the bass player. At That point, we could not figured out who smoke here fit into the compositions We Were writing, so we said fuck it, we do not need a bass player. There was only two groups living in Paris at the time, Between 69 and 71-72, two American bands playing this new music, and we ruled the universe. That was Our group and the Art Ensemble of Chicago. "

The advance of the 70 represented a progressive worsening scenario for musicians free. Noah was not different. Passing seasons in Africa, tested elements of fusion and R & B. Reached the 80, things have cooled further and the musician has just forgotten by many: that decade, only released the album "Traffic." In this context, was to change from time to Brussels, where he opened a studio and a jazz club.

The revival of free in 90 years turned out to be crucial for the rescue of the saxophonist's name. Returning to remember and / or being discovered by the younger generation, Howard went on to record more constant, and has, at the turn of 90/2000, some of his major albums published for the first time on CD. In recent years, could be seen in action in the traditional "Knitting Factory" and "Vision Fest." That revival eventually found the last chapter in 2010. On holiday in southern France, the saxophonist passed away. It was on September 3. Noah Howard was 67.

Complete on  >>  http://freeformfreejazz.blogspot.com/2010/12/ommagio-noah-howard-1943-2010.html


Omaggio a Fred Anderson (1929-2010)

Despite being one of the most memorable names when it comes to the Chicago scene, Fred Anderson was from the town of Monroe, Louisiana, where he was born on March 22, 1929. Having studied music formally at the Conservatory Roy Knapp, Anderson was a founder of the legendary AACM (Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians), which left Anthony Braxton and the Art Ensemble of Chicago. However, if not for the redemption of her name occurred in the 90s, the saxophonist probably would have died without having had even a shadow of recognition his work deserved.

Owns a career marked by long periods of silence, Anderson began to appear even in the 60 discs of fellow AACM, as Joseph Jarman. But his involvement with the bustling scene in Chicago has never represented any softening of the difficulties to survive. Work as a carpet installer was what gave support to him and his family for most of 60/70. " Music's always been like a hobby to me. I played the music because I love it ", he said in an interview, recalling the problematic option of trying to live by his music.


Only in the late 70s, who was nearly 50 years of age, was that he began recording as a leader. The shoot first, released in 1978, was called "Another Place" and never received digital reissue. To make matters worse, his belated debut would be interrupted too soon.

Between "The Milwaukee Tapes" (1980) and "Black Horn Long Gone" (recorded in 1993 but unpublished until last year), Anderson has largely disappeared, concentrating on his bar-club, the Velvet Lounge, which opened in 82. While performing in his bar, the musician took up this period of little more than a decade the business and education, leaving aside stages and studios.
Anderson was one of the most veteran rediscovered the excitement of free music from the 1990s. Ken Vandermark was among those who rescued the veteran saxophonist, bringing him to his circle, recording and touring with him. Hamid Drake was another key figure in this process. But with Drake, the ratio was more ancient and visceral. In his albums at the turn of 70/80, Anderson recruited very young drummer to take the drumsticks. In "Another Place", for example, Drake was only 23 years. When the 90 arrived, Drake, already a mature and respected drummer in the middle, Anderson has incorporated into its different projects.


The sonic texture of Anderson is among the most turbulent of his generation. Saxophonist, dedicated to the tenor, has always respected jazz strains, reusing them in their search improvised. A musician free, in connection with what the modern emerged from the 60s, but always aware of what came before. Weighed in their training, he said, names like Coleman Hawkins and Gene Ammons.

After the rediscovery of his name, Anderson went through almost two decades of intense activity, while still lit his "Velvet Lounge. From mid-1990 onwards, his name stamped at least some three dozen albums. In 2009, in commemoration of its 80 years, released "21st Century Chase: 8oth Birthday Bash, Live at the Velvet Lounge," a disc with lots of energy, attended the drummer Chad Taylor and the saxophonist Kidd Jordan. About a year later, on June 24, 2010, Fred Anderson would suffer a massive heart attack, ending a career that has received in its final stage, the recognition it deserves.

This debut album as a leader Fred Anderson brings a quintet in its lineup, which had already complied with the trombonist George Lewis and then-rookie Hamid Drake on drums. There was even a third blow the trumpet of Billy Brimfield. At the time, as evidenced by other records ("Dark Day", "The Milwaukee Tapes"), the saxophonist was working constantly and Billy Drake.Themes Long, where you can enjoy wandering with the rich sound (almost lost!) Anderson.

Side A - Saxoon The Bull
Side B - Another Place Another Place B-Side

* Fred Anderson: tenor
*George Lewis: trombone
* Billy Brimfield: trumpet
* Brian Smith: bass
* Hamid Drake: drums
Recorded Live at 7th International New Jazz Festival, 1978, Moers.

Complete: http://freeformfreejazz.blogspot.com/2010/12/ommagio-fred-anderson-1929-2010.html