Very rarely does an artist come “out of nowhere” to make an impressive debut. At age 39, when most singers are just finding their groove, Gregory Porter surprised everyone with a stunning debut Water. So many people were impressed that…
Category: Interviews
THE ALMA OF MIGUEL ZENON
When you see an artist perform, it’s easy to forget that not only are you getting the performer’s music, but his or her entire background as a human being. Alto saxophonist Miguel Zenon, who has a resume that includes Charlie…
TERENCE BLANCHARD’S CHOICES
Few jazz artists are able to cross the barrier between playing bona fide and creative jazz while also able to communicate musically with the mainstream world. Terence Blanchard has been able to live in these two world due to his…
LISA HILTON: AN IMPRESSIONED AMERICAN
Malibu based pianist Lisa Hilton’s latest release, American Impressions (with Nasheed Watts/dr, JC Allen/tenor, and Larry Grenadier/b) is a sonic tribute to the unique sounds of this wonderful country. In her liner notes, which also includes photos of archetypal US…
AHMAD JAMAL: REAL SUCCESS
What would it take for you to consider yourself “successful?” When do you think you will finally “arrive?” Is success a destination, or simply a journey? What is your measure of a “successful” life? Pianist Ahmad Jamal has seen and…
CHICK COREA : FURTHER EXPLORATIONS OF THE CONTINENTS
If you want to do a history of post modern jazz, an easy way might be to simply follow the career and six degrees of separation of pianist Chick Corea. Initially working as a sideman with Stan Getz, Willie Bobo,…
A FIRESIDE CHAT WITH ARTHUR BLYTHE
At one time, Arthur Blythe was part of the Columbia machine (not unlike the Miramax machine, how else do you explain the Gangs of New York phenomenon). Then trends took precedent over music and a young Wynton over a middle-aged…
A FIRESIDE CHAT WITH AMIRI BARAKA
Amiri Baraka is one of the most influential Afro-American writers of my generation. Baraka’s Blues People: Negro Music in White America, Black Music, Digging: The Afro-American Soul of American Classical Music, and his countless poems and essays (available www.amiribaraka.com) are…
FIRESIDE CHAT WITH: RONALD SHANNON JACKSON
I am not certain about many things outside of politics, having worked for various Congressman through my short lifetime. But I am certain that Ronald Shannon Jackson should be all over the place, playing, recording, and doing what it is…