Author Archives: The Independent Ear

African Rhythms Video

For the full story on the long journey towards development of the forthcoming book African Rhythms, the as-told-to autobiography of NEA Jazz Master Randy Weston, check out Bret Primack (“The Jazz Video Guy”)’s outstanding new video.  Click on below…

Posted in General Discussion | 2 Comments

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