Author Archives: The Independent Ear

African Rhythms book signing

Posted on February 16, 2011 by The Independent Ear

The next book signing event for African Rhythms, the autobiography of Randy Weston (Composed by Randy Weston, Arranged by Willard Jenkins; Duke University Press) will be Sunday, February 20, 2011 3:00 p.m. at Sista’s Place, 456 Nostrand Avenue in Brooklyn, … Continue reading →

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Ain’t But a Few of Us: Bridget Arnwine turns the tables

Posted on February 15, 2011 by The Independent Ear

The following interview was originally published by JJA News, the online publication of the Jazz Journalists Association, available at www.JJANews.org. Throughout our series of extensive conversations with black music writers “Ain’t But a Few of Us,” I’ve been asked a … Continue reading →

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Dianne Reeves: Consummate Vocal Artist

Posted on February 15, 2011 by The Independent Ear

Last evening at the sumptuous Strathmore Music Center in suburban DC a robust audience was treated to an intimate and surpassing performance from Dianne Reeves, one of the consummate vocal artists of our time. Years from now I have little … Continue reading →

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Artist’s Point of View: JD Allen

Posted on February 9, 2011 by The Independent Ear

One artist and band whose evolution has been palpable and consistently spiraling upward is saxophonist JD Allen and his trio. The Detroit-born Allen wields a brawny, constantly questing tenor saxophone and in the company of bassist Gregg August and drummer … Continue reading →

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Giacomo Gates’ vocalese takes a new turn

Posted on February 9, 2011 by The Independent Ear

Randy Weston and his African Rhythms Sextet, with master drummer Lewis Nash joining the aggregation on traps, closed out the month of January with a splendid week at Dizzy’s Club. The occasion was in part a celebration of Randy’s latest … Continue reading →

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