Monthly Archives: July 2010

Staying the course of creativity: Esperanza Spalding

Bassist Esperanza Spalding has led a bit of a whirlwind artistic life for one so young and fresh off their second release as a leader.  Esperanza,  the singing bassist’s sophomore release on Heads Up was rather promising, if a bit … Continue reading

Posted in General Discussion, Records | Leave a comment

Jazz Venue Chronicles: Monday Nights in Silver Spring

Continuing our investigation of folks who are endeavoring to present jazz in non-traditional ways and non-traditional venues (ala Search and Restore), our series of conversations with what has become a seemingly rare breed over the last 40 years — African Americans … Continue reading

Posted in The Presenter's P.O.V. | 1 Comment

A Portal to Jazz in New York City

Plain and simple folks, as I’ve been preaching for many moons, the biggest issue facing jazz music is not a matter of lack of gigs or venues, dying record companies or jazz masters checking out for ancestry, or the lack … Continue reading

Posted in The Audience | 1 Comment

Advance Praise for African Rhythms…

COMING IN OCTOBER on Duke University Press: An as-told-to autobiography Composed by Randy Weston; Arranged by Willard Jenkins  "Randy Weston is a magical, spiritual, ebullient, and generous soul who just happens to be one of the most original composers and … Continue reading

Posted in Weston Chronicles | 1 Comment

He just keeps gettin’ up: Pianist/Composer/Bandleader Orrin Evans

 Last Tuesday evening at the Jazz Standard, fortified by a plate of succulent ribs and amidst an appreciative audience, sonic rewards were plentiful from pianist Orrin Evans once again offering ample evidence that his arc continues on the rise.  That evening … Continue reading

Posted in That's What They Heard | 3 Comments