New Albums & Gigs in CT

 Slowly but surely, the "live music scene" is opening up, especially here in my native Connecticut.  Here are three artists with new albums gracing music venues this weekend. 

Mary LaRose, life partner and music collaborator of saxophonist/ clarinetist Jeff Lederer, has a new album project arriving on October 7.  "Out Here" (little (i) music) takes the music of Eric Dolphy (clarinet, bass clarinet, flute, alto saxophone), adds lyrics by Ms. LaRose, new arrangements by Mr. Lederer as well as poems by Hallie Lederer and Patricia Donegan, and gives all that to a dynamic quintet of musicians to support, innovate, explore, interpret, and more.  What a fine band –– Mr. Lederer (clarinet, bass clarinet), Tomeka Reid (cello), Patricia Brennan (vibraphone, electronics), Nick Dunston (bass), and Matt Wilson (drums –– they perform nine songs from across Dolphy's discography.  The arrangements allow one to hear the influences of the blues, be bop, and classical music that permeated the Master's music.

The album opens with a delightful take of "Gazzelloni", Dolphy's tribute to the Italian flutist and teacher Severino Gazzelloni (1919-1992) who gave numerous lessons to many artists over the decades including the composer.  The introduction is a particular delight with Ms. LaRose and drummer Wilson having a playful conversation.  "Out There" has a positive message and a propulsive melody.  Ms. LaRose sings with the cello, bass, and the vibes in unison with her.  There is no tempo yet the music leaps forward on the strength of the instruments and voice. Trombonist Jimmy Bosch, percussionist Bobby Sanabria, and vocalist Maya Rose Lederer join the band for the Afro-Cuban inflected take of Sonny Simmons/ Prince Lasha's "Music Matador". Note hoe Ms. Reid's cellist interacts with the voice as does the trombone.  The show has the quality of a "show stopper"!

Parade drums lead the way into "Out to Lunch" – listen to how the tempos shift under Lederer's clarinet solo as if the vibes were going one way, the cello another, and the drums yet another while the bass keeps the structure intact.  "Love Me", a melody by Victor Young with lyrics by Ned Washington and Bing Crosby, is a duet between the Ms. LaRose's playful voice and the swooping phrases of the bass clarinet.  

"Out Here" closes with Mal Waldron's "Warm Canto" which the pianist/ composer recorded with Dolphy for his 1961 album "The Quest".  Ms. LaRose reads the Patricia Donegan's poem "Lover's Wish" supported by Wilson's fine brushes work, Ms. Brennan's electronically enhanced vibes, and Ms. Reid's expressive cello.  In the middle, the clarinet trio of Isaiah Johnson, Cameron Jones, and Mr. Lederer carry on a lively conversation.  It's the perfect ending for a delight-filled album that not only contains surprises but also soothes the soul.  Mary LaRose is quite the adventurous artist and, while she has only released five albums over the past two decades (she has also recorded with her husband), each album is required listening.

To purchase the album, go to https://littleimusic.bandcamp.com/album/out-here.  

Here's the delightful take of Dolphy's "Gazzelloni":

Mary LaRose will celebrate the release of "Out Here" on Friday 10/7 leading a quintet that includes Ms. Brennan, Matt Wilson, Mr. Lederer , and Michael Formanek in the bass chair.   For ticket information, go to http://firehouse12.com/performance-calendar/2021/10/8/mary-larose-ensemble. The event is in-person as well as streamed.  

On August 16, 2020, Jeff Lederer invited his friends Jamie Saft (organ, piano), Matt Wilson (drums, percussion), and Steve Swallow (electric bass) to record eight original compositions based on the saxophonist's study of the book "The Heart of Buddha's Teaching" by Thich Nahat Hanh. And, because of the extensive COVID-19 protocols being enforced at the time, the quartet was going to record the session outdoors.  They did just that in between the hit-or-miss summer showers.  The ensemble, known as Sunwatcher from the title of Mr. Lederer's 2011 Jazzheads release that featured Saft and Wilson plus bassist Buster Williams, creates a powerful sound pushed forward by the insistent drums and Mr. Swallow's amazing bass work.  "Eightfold Path" (little (i) music) is a guide to living a good life with the music serving as a guide to immerse one's self into the sound. Tunes such as "Right Speech" and "Right Livelihood" make one want to dance and sound great coming out of a car's speakers driving down the road.

Every time I encounter Steve Swallow's bass, I realize how much he fills the bottom and how melodic he is. Note how bluesy and fundamental he is on "Right Action" and how integral his counterpoint is behind the acoustic piano and tenor sax solos on "Right Effort".  Mr. Swallow connects with the New Orleans-tinged drums on "Right Action" playing a three-note figure similar to that of the  "Acknowledgement" movement of John Coltrane's "A Love Supreme".  Saft's righteously funky organ playing stands out on that track as well.  In an interview I conducted with Mr. Lederer and Mary LaRose, I asked if "Right Resolve" was based on the chugging rhythm of Elton John's "Bennie and The Jets" –– the composer claimed "no" but Ms. LaRose laughed and said "Told you!" Certainly the chord structure is different but.....Saft's solo roars while Wilson's drums crush beneath him.  

While the music is noisy at times, there are also several lovely ballads.  The gospel-tinged melody of "Right View", played together then in counterpoint by Mr. Lederer and Mr. Swallow, has wonderful cymbal work and rich, sustained, organ chords.  Mr. Saft's long solo adds intensity to the piece and is followed by a sweet Swallow solo. The afore-mentioned "Right Effort" and the album closer "Right Mindfulness" finds the organist on acoustic piano. The latter track features long sustained bass notes, a handsome tenor solo, and Mr. Wilson on hand-held percussion. Notice how all four musicians are essential to the music moving forward even as they create a meditative sound.

"Eightfold Path" is Jeff Lederer at his best. Yes, he still plays with a ferocity that sounds as if his saxophone will explode but he also displays a softer, more melodic, side that fits the message of the album. Great band, good music –– sure sounds like they had a delightful day in the park!

For more information, go to www.littleimusic.com/about.  To purchase the album and other releases from little (i) music, go to https://littleimusic.bandcamp.com/album/eightfold-path. 

Here's "Right Action":

Vocalist Judy Wexler, born and still lives in Los Angeles, CA, is a person who loves tell a story with each song she sings.  Her new album "Back To The Garden" (released in June of this year on her Jewel City Jazz) illustrates how the songs of 1960s, pieces written by Bob Dylan, Joni Mitchell, Stephen Stills, Sandy Denny, and others, have great resonance for this third decade of the 21st Century. With a band that features pianist and arranger Jeff Colella, guitarist Larry Koonse, bassist Gabe Davis, drummer Steve Hass, a string quartet, and more guests, Ms. Wexler comes at these tunes with a jazz sensibility and an well-developed ear for harmony while the arrangements by Collela (with two from Josh Nelson) open the songs up without losing their essential qualities.  I imagine that anyone who "grew up" with these songs (as I did) will bring a myriad memories to his or her listening experience.  

Despite the album's title, that Joni Mitchell song is not in the program but "Big Yellow Taxi" is. The melody is propelled by a funky piano phrase. Danny Janklow's alto sax fills serve as a smart counterpoint to the vocal plus delightful backing vocals (the tune's co-arranger Erin Bentlage) will make you smile.  In the midst of their Brill Building years, Gerry Goffin and Carole King composed "Up On The Roof" and the homage to star gazing in New York City was a best seller for The Drifters during the Holiday season of 1962.  Collela's arrangement and far-ranging piano solo brings Bruce Hornsby to mind.  "For What It's Worth", composed by Stills for the Buffalo Springfield, became a rallying cry for protesters around the escalating Vietnam War.  Koonse's sharp-edged solo, accompanied by the militaristic drums, is a highlight as is Ms. Bentlage's backing vocals.  

Mr. Dylan gets two songs, the political broadside "The Times They Are A'Changin'" (1964) and the sweet lullaby "Forever Young", a song the composer recorded twice for his 1974 album "Planet Waves" (featuring The Band). The former song is just as relevant now as it was nearly six decades ago while the latter is one of the sweetest and straight-forward set of lyrics in Mr. Dylan's oeuvre.  Ms. Wexler and Jeff Collela don't take liberties with these songs; instead, they make sure you hear the lyrics. Violinist Sara Caswell

makes an appearance on "Forever Young" wrapping her velvety phrases around Koonse's guitar lines and the sweet-sounding background voices.

The album closes appropriately with "Who Knows Where The Time Goes" –– the late Sandy Denny composed and recorded the song with Fairport Convention in 1969 but it was Judy Collins whose 1968 version became the title of her third album.  This lovely arrangement by Josh Nelson features a splendid trumpet solo from Jay Jennings as well as a heartfelt vocal. Nelson also arranged "American Tune" (listen below) that utilizes a string trio that underscore Ms. Wexler's emotional vocal.  

When you listen to "Back To The Garden", make sure to notice that this is not a nostalgic trip or even a tribute album: instead, notice how Judy Wexler remind us all of the power of music to be relevant over decades and generations and how jazz artists were listeners first and interpreters second, introducing great songs to new audiences.  Subtle, swinging, soothing, fun, this album is a true delight!

For more information, go to https://judywexler.com/. To hear more and to purchase the album/ download, go to https://judywexler.bandcamp.com/album/back-to-the-garden.

Judy Wexler will be performing this album and more on Saturday October 9 at The Side Door Jazz Club in Old Lyme CT.  Accompanying her will be Jim Ridl (piano), Bill Moring (bass), and Tim Horner (drums).  For ticket information, go to www.eventbrite.com/e/judy-wexler-tickets-165027442523. 

Here's Ms. Wexler's take on Paul Simon's "American Tune":

Two Days & Plenty of Music

Saxophonist, composer, and educator Rene McLean returns to Connecticut on Friday October 6 to perform two sets of music at The Side Door Jazz Club in Old Lyme. The son of saxophonist and educator Jackie McLean, he's traveled the world, lived in South Africa for some time and returned to CT to teach at the school that bears his father's name at the University of Hartford.

Joining him in Old Lyme will be several of his contemporaries from the Hartt School including bassist Nat Reeves, drummer Eric McPherson, and trombonist Steve Davis plus Hubert Eaves III (piano), and Neal Clarke (African percussion).  You'll hear influences from throughout the eras of jazz as well as from its African roots.  For ticket reservations, call 860-434-2600.

That dapper gentleman on the left is keyboard and organ player Brian Charette. The native of Meriden CT is bring his Kürrent Trio, including guitarist Yotam Silberstein and drummer Jordan Young to Firehouse 12, 45 Crown St in New Haven on Friday.  Mr. Charette is one of the busier players in this country and in Eastern Europe whether he's playing straight-ahead jazz, rock (he plays keyboards in Allan Brothers drummer Jaimoe's Jasssz Band), or the new electronic track he takes with this group.  The trio's self-released debut, issued this summer, features Ben Monder and finds the organist also contributing electric piano, various synths, and sequencers to the mix.  The music is delightfully upbeat, a dizzying mix of funky beats, swinging grooves, and much more. Young, who has played with the organist for a long time, really drives the trio.  Silberstein is an excellent replacement for Monder and i expect the intimate performance space to rock plenty hard.

For more information, go to firehouse12.org or call 203-785-0468.  To find out more about Kürrent and its leader, go to www.briancharette.com.

On Saturday evening, The Side Door welcomes back composer, saxophonist (alto and soprano), bassist, and educator Mark Zaleski and his Band. You may recognize the last name as his brother Glenn performs with a number of groups (including his own). The Brothers from Boylston, MA, grew up playing music and both were busy around the Boston area. The saxophonist has worked with The Either/Orchestra and toured with Jethro Tull (!) plus has recorded with the Omar Thomas Large Ensemble, pianist Matt Savage (with whom he played The Side Door in 2016), and Brighton Beat.  Mark went on to study at the New England Conservatory of Music where his Band was formed 11 years ago.  The core band - Glenn, tenor saxophonist Jon Bean, guitarist Mark Cocheo, bassist Danny Weller, plus drummer Oscar Suchenek (a newcomer as he joined the band in 2013) - has a new album "Days, Months, Years" (self-released) filled with material they have played for several years.

The album is great fun. Six tracks, four of them originals plus two fascinating covers (Thelonious Monk and Kenny Clarke's "Epistrophy" and Charlie Parker's "Big Foot") and each is interesting in its own right.  The Monk tune gets "funkified" (brother Glenn on Rhodes and a hard-edged solo from Cocheo) while the Parker tune is slowed down and the group pared down to a trio (bass, drums, alto sax).  The originals are really quite impressive, most of them episodic, each with intelligent interplay, fine melodies, and strong solos.  All this bodes well for The Side Door gig as the band is "tight" and loves to play. For these sets, guitarist Carl Eisman will take the place of Cocheo.

For more information, go to thesidedoorjazz.com or call 860-434-2600.  To learn more about the leader and his many musical associations, go to www.markzaleskimusic.com.

What a Weekend for Creative Music in CT

What to do, where to go, so much good music all around me - deep breath  Okay, Autumn officially starts this week and the concert venues around the state are already cranking up.  I is actually was a fairly busy Summer but now the choices are even more numerous.  After a number of great concerts in July and August, I'm itching to get out and hear some live music.

Let's start on Friday in Old Lyme.  The Side Door Jazz Club welcomes Matt Wilson's Honey & Salt for an 8:30 p.m. performance (actually, there are two sets).  The Quintet - composer and drummer Wilson, Dawn Thomson (guitar, vocals), Jeff Lederer (all sorts of reeds), Ron Miles (cornet), and Martin Wind (acoustic bass guitar) - gets its name from its new album, a recording that celebrates American poet Carl Sandburg (1868-1967). The recording is a delightful pastiche of styles, from raucous jazz to country 'n' western to blues to rock and so on.  The ensemble has been touring for the past month or so and been getting great receptions wherever they perform.

To reserve and/or buy tickets, go to thesidedoorjazz.com or call 860-434-2600.  To learn more about the Sandburg project, go to www.mattwilsonjazz.com.

Here's the drummer and poet in duet:

Also on Friday, the Firehouse 12 Fall 2017 Concert Series continues with the Frode Gjerstad Trio with special guest Steve Swell.  Alto saxophonist Gjerstad (he also plays clarinet) has been on the European Free Jazz scene since the late 1970s and is one of the more fiery players around.  The rhythm section, drummer Paal Nilssen-Love and bassist Jon Rune Strøm, match the leader's intensity and often help to keep the fires stoked.  Trombonist Steve Swell joins the Trio on occasion for tours and recordings, bringing his unique approach to the instrument and music, one that he has developed from his associations with Bill Dixon, Anthony Braxton, and William Parker.

The band plays two sets - 8:30 and 10 p.m. - and there is a separate admission for each one. Firehouse 12 is located at 45 Crown Street in New Haven.  To get tickets, go to firehouse12.com or call 203-785-0468.

Pianist and composer Laszlo Gardony returns to The Buttonwood Tree, 605 Main Street in Middletown, on Saturday (9/23) at 8 p.m. for a concert of solo piano music.  Professor Gardony, who is on the faculty of the Berklee College of Music in Boston, is a frequent visitor to The Buttonwood.  He's back this time to celebrate the release of his latest Sunnyside Records album, "Serious Play", a delightful collection of works including a number of originals and standards such as "Georgia on My Mind" and John Coltrane's "Naima."  The pianist pays with great fire, great emotion and a love for melody.

For ticket information, go to buttonwood.org/event/lazlo-gardony-cd-release-concert/ or call 860-347-4957. To find out more about the pianist, go to www.lgjazz.com.

Here's the delightful and forceful "Truth to Power":

Bassist, composer, and curator Carl Testa is bringing the Uncertainty Music Series to a close this weekend with a Farewell Festival.  And it take place in the delightful sound space of Firehouse 12.  On Saturday at 8:30 p.m., the Series presents Jeremiah Cymerman's SYSTEMA MUNDITOTIUS with Matt Bauder, Patrik Holmes, and Aaron Novik plus a set by a collaborative ensemble featuring Anne Rhodes, Chris Cretella, Forbes Graham, James Ilgenfritz, and Adam Matlock. Sunday, the show starts a 7:30 p.m. with Electronic Music by Val Inc. plus a set by a collaborative ensemble featuring Erica Dicker, Louis Guarino Jr., Junko Fujiwara, Andria Nicodemou, and Carl Testa. For ticket information, go to uncertaintymusic.com or firehouse12.com.

Carl Testa ran the Uncertainty Music series for 10 years, bringing musicians from all over the world to play music that challenged our stereotypes and made us listen with new ears.  The series will be sorely missed!

Finally, on Saturday night, The Side Door Jazz Club welcomes guitarist and composer Dave Stryker and his Quartet.  Stryker's new album, "Strykin' Ahead", (issued on the guitarist's own Strikezone Records) is a delightful mix of blues, swing, and bebop: he's bringing two of the musicians, organist Jared Gold and the delightful drummer McClenty Hunter to the Old Lyme venue. Sitting in on vibraphone will be Monte Gold who's taking the place of Steve Nelson.  

The band hits the stage at 8:30 for the first of two sets. Go to thesidedoorjazz.com for more information.

Friday Night Live in CT 3/17

By Friday evening, the roads in these parts should be clear of the ice and snow that bedeviled Connecticut residents this week.  I suggest an evening of live music to celebrate one's freedom.

The Buttonwood Tree, 605 Main Street in Middletown, presents the duo of Satoko Fujii (piano) and Joe Fonda (bass) at 8 p.m.  The two were familiar with each other's work but hadn't meet until getting together for a short tour in November 2015. They recorded their second gig, releasing the performance as "Duet Song" in 2016.  What's impressive about their pairing is the fact that the music is totally improvised.  The results can be thrilling, "free", highly musical, ferocious, soothing, and well worth watching.

For reservations, call 860-347-4957 or go to www.buttonwood.org.

Here's a taste of the duo with guest trumpeter (and Ms. Fujii's husband) Natsuki Tamura:

Saxophonist and composer Dan Pratt comes to The Side Door Jazz Club in Old Lyme on Friday.  Best known for his work with an organ quartet, Pratt's new CD, "Hymn for the Happy Man", finds the California native alongside pianist Mike Eckroth, drummer Alan Mednard, and bassist Christian McBride for a program of original music that takes its cues from Wayne Shorter's Blue Note years and the early Wynton Marsalis Quintet.

For the Old Lyme gig, Pratt, Eckroth and Mednard will be joined by bassist Matt Clohesy.  They'll take the stage at 8:30 p.m. play two sets.  For more information and reservations, go to thesidedoojazz.com or call 860-434-2600.

Here's the title track:

As I wrote earlier this week (read here), the Firehouse 12 Spring 2017 Concerts series commences this week on Friday in the intimate recording studio and performance space located at 45 Crown Street in New Haven.  The opening show belongs to Stephan Crump's Rhombal, a quartet that features Ellery Eskelin (tenor saxophone), Adam O'Farrill (trumpet), Tyshawn Sorey (drums) and the leader on bass; he also has created all the music for the ensemble (so far).  The combination of blues, improvisation, brilliant interactions, and strong solos made for an impressive debut album (released in late Summer 2016) - the music should be even better live.

The Elm City date is the third of five-shows-in five-days that Rhombal is playing this week.  To find out more about the Mr. Crump and the band, go to stephancrump.com.   To make reservations or get more information about the Concerts series, go to firehouse12.org or call 203-785-0468.

Here's a track from the album:

Spring In Our Steps + Happy 10th at Firehouse 12!

After a fairly mild February (in the madness that now passes for winter in southern New England), March has definitely come in like a lion.  Actually, more like a marauding polar bear but the calendar reminds us that the Vernal Equinox is almost upon us and, even more important (especially for fans of creative music in CT), the Firehouse 12 Spring Concert series is set to commence.

The opening show of this year, the venue's 10th Anniversary season, belongs to bassist and composer Stephan Crump's Rhombal.  The quartet's debut album came out last summer and made it to numerous "Best-of" lists.  Featuring a front line of Ellery Eskelin (tenor saxophone) and Adam O'Farrill (trumpet), the music is powered by the exciting rhythm section of Crump and drummer Tyshawn Sorey.  The album was recorded fairly early in the band's career and they have been gigging a lot since then so they should be in great form on March 17th.

Here's music to accompany your reading:


Filling out the month will be the Joe Fielder Quintet (3/24) and Trio M (3/31).  Trombonist and composer Fielder has formed a new ensemble, one that features the amazing (and madcap) Jeff Lederer (saxophones, clarinet), Pete McCann (guitars), Rob Jost (bass, french horn), and Michael Sarin (drums).  The band's new album comes out later this month and is filled with exciting performances of Fielder's fine compositions.  Trio M takes its name from its three members, pianist Myra Melford, bassist Mark Dresser, and drummer Matt Wilson. Each member also contributes music and their interactions make for an impressive performance.

The first weekend in April will be quite exciting.  Friday the 7th, it's saxophonist Anna Webber with her "Binary" Trio featuring pianist Matt Mitchell and drummer John Hollenbeck. "Binary" is the name given to the Trio's second album on SKIRL Records which was released on October of 2016.  Wadada Leo Smith's picture is there because on Saturday (4/08) and Sunday (4/09) because he has curated a fascinating event.  Dubbed the CREATE Festival, there will be workshops, seminars, and numerous performances, many of which feature Wadada's music.  Among Saturday's performances are the debuts of his String Quartets Number 9 and 10 as well as his Golden Quintet playing excerpts (on Sunday too) from 2016's "America's National Parks" recording.  More debuts will come on Sunday but many people (including me) are excited about the reunion of New Delta Ahkri, a trio that Wadada assembled in the 1970s with vibraphonist Bobby Naughton and multi-reed master Dwight Andrew.  You can see the whole lineup by clicking here.

April's offerings also include drummer Ralph Peterson's Triangular III Trio on the 14th;  The ensemble (pictured left) features Hartford natives Zaccai and Luques Curtis (piano and bass respectively). Peterson is such a powerful drummer and a strong composer with a great love for the history of jazz.  On the 21st, the Michaël Attias Quartet comes to the venue. Attias is a fine alto saxophonist and composer; this quartet - pianist Aruan Ortiz, bassist John Hébert, and drummer Nasheet Waits - just released its first recording on Clean Feed, filled with impressive interactions and musical conversations.  For this gig, pianist Kris Davis sits in the piano chair.  The last Friday of the month belongs to the Anthony Braxton Septet.  Mr. Braxton, who retired from his teaching position at Wesleyan several years (Tyshawn Sorey takes his place this coming Fall semester), has been touring the world with his many ensembles, performing his operas and other new compositions.  Featured in this group are Adam Matlock (accordion), Dan Peck (tuba), Tomeka Reid (cello) Taylor Ho Bynum (cornet, and the twin harps of Jacqueline Kerrod and Shelley Burgon (Mr Braxton will play clarinet and electronics).  Mr. Bynum, Ms. Melford, and Mr. Hébert return on Saturday to play a concert with a group dubbed the Firehouse 12 Records All Stars. The ensemble also includes guitarist Mary Halvorson, drummer Tomas Fujiwara, trumpeter Nate Wooley, and pianist Carl Maguire.

Dig the sounds of Mr. Peterson and the brothers Curtis:

May starts out with a visit (on the 5th) from the Matthew Shipp Trio.  The talented, opinionated, and forceful pianist Shipp released what he says his final album in January.  If it truly is his denouement as a recording artist (he still plans to perform live as a leader and band member), "Piano Song" (Thirsty Ear) is one of his best.  Joining him will be bassist Michael Bisio and drummer Newman Taylor Baker who also are on the album.  On May 12th, Harriet Tubman, the trio of Brandon Ross (banjo, guitar, vocal), J.T. Lewis (drums), and Melvin Gibbs (bass).  Their new Sunnyside album, "Araminta", also features Wadada Leo Smith, and the collaboration is quite fascinating (hear a track below).  The following week (5/19), the volume might be lower but the music should be just an engaging when the Pete Malinverni Trio takes the stage.  The pianist and composer has not only worked with jazz masters such as Mel Lewis and Joe Lovano but has also served as a church musician in an African American Baptist Church in Brooklyn. May closes out on the 26th with Joe Morris "House of Refreshment" that finds the guitarist in the company of bassist Kim Cass (who in a member of Noah Preminger's Quartet), also saxophonist Jim Hobbs, and drummer Gerald Cleaver.

Here's a healthy slice of music from Harriet Tubman:

The season closes with 2 shows in June but both will be fascinating.  On June 2, guitarist Brandon Seabrook will celebrate the release of "Die Trommel Fatale", his new album and group.  Not sure yet who'll be sharing the stage but the one song I have heard features a sextet with bassist Eyvind Opsvik and cellist Marika Hughes plus a vocalist and two drummers!  The music is a wild blend of Captain Beefheart, "scream-o", "trance", and more.  On June 9, come help celebrate the 40th anniversary of BassDrumBone, the magical trio of bassist Mark Helias, drummer and percussionist Gerry Hemingway, and trombonist Ray Anderson.  They, too, are celebrating a new album, aptly title "The Long Road", a 2-disk set they self-released late in 2016. Pianist Jason Moran and saxophonist Joe Lovano join them on three tracks each; the music sparkles with musical invention, deep thought, sly humor, and splendid playing.

A new track from BassDrumBone for your enjoyment:


All the concerts, save for Mr. Smith's CREATE Festival, include two sets. with the first at 8:30 p.m. and the second at 10.  To order a season's pass or individual tickets, go to firehouse12.com or call them at 203-785-0468.

Young People Singing & Playing

There seems to be a surplus of young bands playing fascinating music these days and nights. They have CDs and they're playing gigs in the area.  This Friday (11/11), Earprint, a quartet that came together several years while attending the New England Conservatory of Music in Boston, will play a concert for the Jazz at The Underbrook series sponsored by Saybrook College at Yale. The band (pictured above) has an energetic debut album issued several weeks ago on Endectomorph Music.  The self-titled recording features Kevin Sun (tenor sax, clarinet), Tree Palmedo (trumpet, ocean drum), Simón Willson (bass), and Dor Herskovits (drums).  It's the second debut recording this year for Sun and Willson as they are part of another quartet that records for Endectomorph, Great on Paper (review is here).  The earlier album features a pianist - here, the exciting work of Palmedo gives this album great depth and many colors. When he combines his sound with that of the tenor sax, whether in counterpoint (as on "Clock Gears") or in harmony ("School Days" is a good example).  And he fly over the solid rhythms of the bass and drums which he does with great panache on "Colonel.". His brash mute work on "Boardroom" makes an interesting partner to Sun's mellower clarinet.

The work of Willson and Herskovits sparkles on the majority of the 11 tracks.  The bassist creates excellent foundations and is also quite a melodic player.  Listen to him dance on ""School Days" and on the playful "Boardroom".  The Israeli-born drummer plays with great power as well as finesse. He helps create the mysterious air in "The Holy Quiet", Sun's musical reaction to the church shooting in Charleston, South Carolina.  The drummer contributed three songs, including the powerful closing track, "Six Nine", a piece that takes a number of twists and turns yet never loses its way.

Sun, who wrote six of the songs, plays with grace and power often doing both on the same tune. The singing opening line of Palmedo's "The Golden Girder Strikes Again" gives way to a powerful beat and a funky melody.The trumpeter trades lines with the tenor with both pushing the piece forward alongside the rhythm section.  The airy tenor sax, somewhat like Paul Desmond, on "Malingerer", is an excellent companion to the explorations of the rhythm section.

What really stands out on this album is how melodic the band can be. These songs are not "jams" but pieces that were composed with the participants in mind, playing to each one's strengths while creating a group identity.  Earprint has vitality, a youthfulness that is refreshing; they also understand what creative music can do, where it can go when you take chances (like jazz players have been doing since the days of Buddy Bolden).  For more information, go to www.thekevinsun.com.

Jazz at The Underwood takes place in the Underwood Theater, 242 Elm Street, in New Haven.  The concert, which is free and open to the public, begins at 8 p.m. For more information, go to campus press.yale.edu/jazzcollective/.

Meanwhile, a few blocks away on Crown Street - 45, to be exact - the Fall Concert Series at Firehouse 12 welcomes Amirtha Kidambi's Elder Ones Quartet. Ms. Kidambi, a vocalist, composer, and harmonium player, has created music for this band - Brandon Lopez (bass), Matt Nelson (soprano saxophone), and Max Jaffe (drums) - that covers a great swath of musical territory. The Quartet is celebrating its debut album, "Holy Science" (Northern Spy Records) on the day of its release.  There is an experimental edge to the music, thanks to the blend of voice with the instruments and the active drumming, the pieces often go in unexpected directions. The music takes its time to unwind, the pieces usually stretching out beyond 10 minutes. The harmonium and bowed bass often create a drone to introduce a song while the drums and saxophone push the music out from its center.

Amirtha Kidambi's Elder Ones Quartet will play two sets - 8:30 and 10 p.m.  For more information, go to firehouse12.com or call 203-785-0468.

To find out more about Ms. Kidambi, her band, plus her work with guitarist Mary Halvorson's Code Girl (alongside drummer Tomas Fujiwara, bassist Michael Formanek, and trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire), go to www.amirthakidambi.com.

Here's a live version of a track from the debut album:

Amirtha Kidambi’s Elder Ones: Kali Yuga from EMPAC @ Rensselaer on Vimeo.

Two Saxophonists, One Night in CT + Guitarist's Shining Hour

The Fall 2016 Concert Season at Firehouse 12 begins this Friday (9/16) with an appearance by the Ben Wendel Group.  The tenor saxophonist, bassoonist, and composer may be best known for his work with Kneebody; he appeared at the Elm City venue three times including in a duet with pianist Dan Tepfer, as part of Linda Oh's Sun Pictures group, and with his friends in Kneebody.  He's a busy musician and producer - I saw him recently subbing for Donny McCaslin in Maria Schneider's Orchestra and he fit in nicely with the ensemble.

Wendell is touring on the strength of his new album (just came out last week) "What We Bring", his debut on Motéma Music after three releases on SunnySide Records.  The recording features Gerald Clayton (piano), Joe Sanders (bass), Henry Cole (drums, and, on two tracks, Nate Wood (percussion).  Clayton and Sanders will be along for the New Haven gig while Wood will man the drum set.

What a delight the music is on the new album. Six originals and two fascinating covers, one of Miles Davis's "Solar" (which closes the recording) and a lovely reading of "Doubt" by the duo known as Wye Oak. From the opening moments of "Amian", the quartet (and, in this instance, Wood) are firing on all cylinders.  Sanders and Cole (who is a member of Miguel Zenon's Quartet) set a throbbing rhythm while Clayton rumbles underneath.  During Wendel's solo, the pianist is silent while the tenor flies above the fray.  If you play close attention, you can hear the overdubbed reeds as well as the percussive piano.  The melody of "Fall" rises over a funky beat.  Clayton and Wendel share the melody and, at the end of the verse, they each take a quick solo turn.  Clayton takes off into a rollicking, dancing, solo - when the tenor, one hears a section that is reminiscent of Keith Jarrett's European Quartet (Jan Garbarek, Jon Christiansen, and Palle Danielson) from the 1970s.  One hears that in the opening of "Spring", in the sprightly melody line and how Clayton jumps into his solo over the active brushes and fundamental bass.

There's a hint of Caribbean rhythm on "Song Song" while the melody dances atop the bells and bouncing bass lines (acoustic bass and Clayton's left hand).  "Soli" charges out of the gate thanks to the forceful drumming yet it's quite a pleasure to hear how the four musicians vary the dynamics.  "Austin" is a such a pretty piece, the articulated piano lines and the breathy tenor create an atmosphere of gentle contemplation. Clayton is the perfect foil throughout the record, his choice of notes and chords serve the songs so well and his solos are so smart.  Because Sanders and Cole are so adept at creating the foundation for ever song, both the pianist and saxophonist are free to explore.

The splendid interpretation of "Solar" brings the album to a close on a rousing rhythm.  Just listen to how Cole pushes the piece away from its hard-bop roots and into new territory, one marked by the influence of hip hop.  "What We Bring" is modern music, celebrating the tradition as it expands its territory.  Ben Wendel has an expansive mind, attracting musicians to his vision who enjoy taking the music in unexpected and often exciting directions.  This album is a delight from start to finish.

For more information, go to motema.com/artists/ben-wendel/.  

Here's the Group in action:



The Ben Wendel Group plays 2 sets at Firehouse 12 with the first at 8:30 p.m. and the second (separate admission) at 10 p.m.  For more information, call 203-785-0468 or go to firehouse12.com.

As luck would have it, alto saxophonist, composer, and the newly appointed Director of Jazz at Princeton University, Rudresh Mahanthappa brings his Bird Calls quintet to The Side Door Jazz Club in Old Lyme on Friday night, performing his first set at the same time as Ben Wendel will be playing in New Haven.  Joining him will be three of the four musicians who recorded the 2015 ACT CD that gives the band its name; they include pianist Matt Mitchell, bassist François Moutin, and the impressive young trumpeter Adam O'Farrill.  Replacing drummer Rudy Royston will be Dan Weiss so there will be no loss in the powerful drive that propelled the band on the album.  The music, based on the leader's study of the music of alto saxophonist Charlie "Yardbird" Parker (the subtitle of the CD is "The Charlie Parker Project"), does not sound like it comes from the 1940s or 50s but has a modern sensibility. Parker always created new songs off the chords of older ones (he loved "I Got Rhythm" for example) and Mahanthappa does the same.  It's a smart approach, filled with great melodies and strong solos - this is quite a band.

Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the first notes should resound at 8:30.  For tickets and more information, go to thesidedoorjazz.com or call 860-434-0886.  To learn more about Professor Mahanthappa, go to rudreshm.com.

Here's a short look at the album:


On Saturday night, The Side Door welcomes back the Clifton Anderson Sextet with saxophonist Antoine Roney.  The trombonist, best known for his work with his uncle, saxophonist Sonny Rollins, has always maintained a career as a leader, moreso over the past several years since his former employer has stopped playing concerts.

The music starts at 8:30 p.m.  Check the website for more information.

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As the CDs pile up on my desk, one keeps rising to the top.  "1954" (Tone Rogue Records) is the second album for guitarist and composer Ricardo Grilli.  Grilli, a native of Sao Paulo, Brazil. moved to New York City to study at NYU in its Music and Performing Arts Department (after studying at the Berklee College of Music).  He graduated in 2013, the same year he issued his debut album, "If On A Winter's Night A Traveler" (self-issued).  He's worked with pianist Jon Cowherd, saxophonists Chris Cheek and Chris Potter, and drummer EJ Strickland.  He's a melodic streak a mile wide and it's very evident on both his albums.

The new album features an impressive band including Aaron Parks (piano), Joe Martin (bass) and Eric Harland (drums).  The guitarist has supplied with nine originals pieces and, while you may hear a hint of Pat Metheny and Kurt Rosenwinkel every now and then, these compositions are mature, thoughtful, and filled with wonderful melodies.  Several of the cuts sound as if there should be a vocalist.  Pieces such as "Rings" and the elegant samba "Breathe"  are telling a story, one that the listener can get wrapped in. Gentle chords and simple yet effective hand drumming leads in "Rings" - nothing is rushed, the melodic bass lines underpinning the melody played by the leader and Parks, whose phrases rise over the guitar lines and loops. "Cosmonauts" has a classical feel with Martin's sweet solo right at the beginning as the piano plays quiet figures that lead into the melody, one that is effortless and poetic in nature. Harland helps to push the melody forward with his active work while his cymbals splash easily during the piano solo.

There are also moments when the music takes a harder turn.  The opening track "Arcturus" (possibly named for the red-giant star in the Boötes constellation) has a strong 4/4 feel in Harland's drums, a pulsating drive that one might hear on a Jeff Beck track (not the guitar sound, though).  "Vertigo" features a solid drum attack yet still has a well-turned melody.  Harland keeps up the intensity during the piano solo but does not overpower Parks.  Grilli feeds off the the drummer's energy and creates a ringing solo, filled with powerful phrases that rise and fall and rise again.  There's a "prog-rock" feel to the drums on "Radiance", a tune on which the sustain of the guitar notes give the song a fuller sound.   The program closes with "Pulse", a rapid-fire tune that has a hard-bop feel, flying on the scrambling drums and "running" bass lines.  Parks digs into his solo, urged on the forceful rhythm section and chunky guitar chords.

Get a copy of "1954" (it's released in early October) and let the sounds and melodies wash over you.  Don't look for influences, just listen and you'll hear a confident musician playing with a rhythm section that supports, pushes, and gives its all.  Notice the melodies - the majority are truly intelligent, well-drawn, and not flashy guitar riffs that lead to long solos.  Ricardo Grilli, remember that name. Judging by his 2 albums, he's a fine composer, a smart player, an excellent arranger, and, chances are good, he'll be making great music for a long time.

For more information, go to www.ricardogrilli.com.

Busy Week of Live Music in CT + CD Pick

Firehouse 12 in New Haven welcomes native son Ben Allison on Friday May 13 for the latest installment of its Spring 2016 Concert Series.  The bassist and composer will be bringing a new Trio, one that features Jimmy Greene (tenor and soprano saxophones) and Rudy Royston (drums).  All of them have appeared numerous times in the Elm City performance space / recording studio (for Greene, it is his 8th gig in 11 years).  Allison, recently elected the President of the NY Chapter of the Recording Academy, has matured into one of the finer composers on the contemporary scene. He is also one of the better "fundamental" and more melodic bassists; like Mario Pavone, he builds his compositions from the rhythm section outward.  Allison has released 12 CDs as a leader or co-leader plus three with The Herbie Nichols Project, a group he co-founded with pianist Frank Kimbrough.

The Ben Allison Trio will play 2 sets - 8:30 and 10 p.m. - tickets for both sets are available by going to firehouse12.com.  To find out more about Mr. Allison, go to benallison.com.

The Side Door Jazz Club presents yet another stellar weekend of first-class music.  On Friday, The Door opens to Rene McLean Pentagram Music of the Spirit - Celebrating Jackie McLean.  Rene (saxophones, flutes), the son of the late saxophonist, activist, and educator, Jackie McLean, has had a very busy career and is on the faculty of the Jackie McLean Institute at the University of Hartford. He's bringing quite the ensemble, including Alan J. Palmer (piano), Lesedi Ntsane (trumpet), Ronnie Burrage (drums), Hartford-native Dezron Douglas (bass), and Neil Clark (African percussion).

Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the music starts at 8:30.  Call 860-434-0886 for more information and reservations.

On Saturday, it's pianist Andy Milne & Dapp Theory.  Milne creates that brings together elements of jazz, hip hop, and funk in a most exciting fashion.  His ensemble - Aaron Kruziki (saxophones, clarinets), Chris Tordini (bass), Kenn Grohowski (drums), and John Moon (percussive poet) - has been together for a while and has grown into an impressive live band.  Whirlwind Recording released the band's latest album, ""Forward In All Directions", in 2014.  Produced by the ex-Yellowjackets bassist Jimmy Haslip, the music may remind some of Weather Report with its bow to Middle Eastern, African, and South Amercan sounds.

The band takes the stage at 8:30 p.m.  For reservations and more information, go to thesidedoorjazz.com.

Here's Andy Milne & Dapp Theory in concert from July 2015 playing a song from the new recording:

On Saturday, the Uncertainty Music Series continues with a home-grown double bill. Accordionist Adam Matlock (pictured left) plays a solo concert with material that comes from his latest album, "Lungfiddle" released on the Off Record label.  The music is experimental yet approachable, often taking time to unwrap the melody, sometimes blending sound and silence.  To find out more and hear samples of the music, go to anhistoricmusic.bandcamp.com/album/lungfiddle.

Also on the bill is the duo of Anne Rhodes (voice) and Chris Cretella (guitar).  The music starts at 8 p.m. in the comfortable performance space of Never Ending Books, 810 State Street in New Haven. For more information, go to www.facebook.com/uncertaintymusic/.

Joe Morris (guitar, bass) and Stephen Haynes (cornets) have curated a successful season of "Improvisations:: Arcade" at Real Art Ways, 56 Arbor Street in Hartford.  They always have a "grand finale" in May and do so again this Sunday at 3 p.m.  Dubbed "Spectacle 2016", the concert will feature various combinations of the 10 musicians invited.  Besides Messrs. Morris and Haynes, the lineup includes Kaoru Watanabe (flutes), Andria Nicodemou (vibraphone), Andrew Drury (drums, percussion), Mat Manieri (viola), Kyoko Kitamura (voice), Carl Testa (bass), Ben Stapp (tuba), and Ben Hall (tympani, drums, percussion).  What to expect? With this impressive ensemble, the music can and will go in many directions so, expect to be surprised, challenged, and delighted.

For more information, go to www.realartways.org/event/improvisationsarcade/2016-05-15/ or www.facebook.com/improvisations.arcade/?fref=ts.

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Drummer/composer Jeff Williams (Dave Liebman, Stan Getz, Joe Lovano) has expanded upon the format of his first two CDs for Whirlwind Recordings, both quartet dates, by adding chordal instrument. Guitarist Phil Robson and pianist Kit Downes (also Fender Rhodes), joins Williams, Josh Arcoleo (tenor saxophone), and Sam Lasserson (acoustic and electric bass) Still, "Outlier" has the same exploratory manner as the other ones, 2011's "Another Time" and 2013's "The Listener."  The interaction of Robson's airy guitar sounds and the piano block chords with the forward motion of rhythm section gives the title track an infectious energy. "The Interloper" bursts out of the gate with Williams kicking his way around the bluesy theme. Arcoleo and Downes takes their cues from the drummer, playing forceful solos (especially the pianist) before the piece calms down for a bass solo.

Williams' excellent brush work meshes with Lasserson's melodic bass at the opening of "Meeting A Stranger", a ballad that includes a fine tenor spot.  Pay attention to the work of Downes and Robson underneath the solo, both "comping" yet never getting in each other's way.  The pianist's unaccompanied introduction to "New and Old" leads one to believe that the track is also a ballad; once the rhythm section comes in, the pace picks up for the melody and even more for the solos (save for the bass spotlight). The melody of "Hermeto" is shared by the saxophonist and guitarist while Williams really fires up the rhythms. They return to the theme several times before Robson and Arcoleo take expansive solos.  The chordal structure and overall feel of the track is similar to that of Steely Dan's "Aja", leading to a fiery climax.

Jeff Williams does not take may solos on "Outlier", although his opening salvo on the final track, "Oddity", leads the way into a high-powered romp. He is one of those drummers who leads from his chair; he never overpowers his ensemble but gives every piece a sense of flow that makes the music sing, swing, and, at times, dance.  His brush work is exemplary as is his cymbal work.  This ensemble is blessed by having Phil Robson and Kit Downes, both leaders in their own right.  "Outlier" is delightful music that washes over the listener and brightens the mood.

For more information, go to www.willfulmusic.com.

Here's Jeff Williams and this U.K. Quintet live in concert from 2015:

Early May Music + Bass Story

A pleasingly busy weekend of music in CT including 2 fine shows at The Side Door Jazz Club in Old Lyme.  On Friday (5/06), Jan & Ken welcome pianist Eldar Djangirov & his Trio. Eldar, born in the former Soviet Union but raised in Kansas City, Missouri, between playing professionally before he was a teenager.  He signed to Sony Records in 2005, releasing his 3rd CD at the age of 18 (his self-released debut came out when he was just 14).  A technically brilliant pianist, he has matured in a thoughtful musician with a great knowledge of many different genres.  He has also worked with saxophonist J.D. Allen on two of the tenor player's Savant releases.

Not sure who's in the rhythm section but, rest assured, this music will be fiery yet with finesse (check out the video below). Doors open at 7:30 p.m. and the music starts 60 minutes later.  Go to thesidedoorjazz.com for more information.

Here's Eldar's Trio in action:

On Saturday, The Side Door opens for the David Gibson Quintet. Trombonist and composer Gibson, raised in Oklahoma, has been fairly busy since moving to New York City nearly two decades ago.  He's arranged, composed, and recorded with such artists as Slide Hampton, vocalist Nancy Wilson, the Dizzy Gillespie Alumni Band, Orrin Evans' Captain Black Big Band plus issued six albums as a leader, three on the Nagel-Heyer label and his most recent three  on Posi-Tone Records.

His latest CD, "Boom", came out early in 2015 and he's bringing most of the group that recorded that fine session with him to Old Lyme.  The rhythm sections consists of pianist Theo Hill, bassist Alex Claffey, and drummer Kush Abadey with trumpeter Freddie Hendrix joining Gibson in the all-brass front line. Everyone save for the trumpeter is featured on the recording (my review is here.)

The Quintet will play two sets commencing at 8:30 p.m.  For reservations and more information, call 860-434-0886.  To learn more about the trombonist, go to www.jazzbone.org.

Here's a tune from the latest CD to whet your appetite for Saturday night:

Firehouse 12 in New Haven presents drummer and composer Allison Miller Boom Tic Boom in concert Friday at 8:30 p.m.  Ms. Miller, who has worked with a slew of artists including vocalist Natalie Merchant, pianist Kenny Barron, bassist Ben Allison, and organist Dr. Lonnie Smith, is on tour performing music from her album "Otis Was a Polar Bear" (The Royal Potato Family). Her third recording as a leader features an all-star cast including Kirk Knuffke (cornet), Ben Goldberg (clarinet), Jenny Scheinman (violin, vocals), Myra Melford (piano), and Todd Sickafoose (drums) and that's the ensemble coming to the Elm City (recent gigs have Gary Versace subbing for Ms. Melford.)

"Otis...", composed after the birth of the drummer's first child, is a splendid recording from start to finish.  While her previous recordings had their strengths (especially the interaction of the pianist and bassist with the drummer), the new recording expands the sonic palette with the addition of cornet and clarinet. Plus, having a baby has allowed the more melodic side of Ms. Miller as a composer to be front-and-center. Not that the music doesn't swing - there are moments of great intensity - but the overall effect is one of playfulness.

Boom Tic Boom plays 2 sets, each with a separate admission charge.  Go to firehouse12.com or call 203-785-0468 to find out more.

Here's a video about the making of the new album:

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On Friday, the Hartford Jazz Society presents the great alto and soprano saxophonist Gary Bartz in concert at 7 p.m. in the Polish National Home, 60 Charter Oak Avenue in Hartford.  Bart, born in Baltimore, MD, is well-known for his work with McCoy Tyner and Miles Davis plus his works as a leader of the NTU Troop and his recordings for Fantasy Records. He had a period in the mid-to-late 1970s when he had commercial success but he's been playing his brand of post-Coltrane jazz for the past 3+ decades.

Not sure who's in his touring Quartet but, most likely, guitarist Paul Bollenback will be alongside Bartz on the bandstand. Opening the concert will be the Greater Hartford Academy of Jazz Ensemble I.  For more information, go to www.hartfordjazzsociety.com or call 860-242-6688.

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Canadian-born bassist and composer Rich Brown has a big, thick, electric sound that has been the foundation of bands led by pianist Andy Milne, saxophonists Steve Coleman, Steve Lehman, and Rudresh Mahanthappa.  "Abeng" is his second album as a leader and first with a band since he was the leader of Rinse The Algorithm in the mid-2000s.  The recording features Luis Deniz (alto saxophone), Larnell Lewis (drums), Robi Botos (piano on 4 tracks, Fender Rhodes on 1), Chris Donnelly (piano on 4 tracks), Kevin Turcotte (trumpet on 2 tracks), Kelly Jefferson (tenor saxophone on 1 track) and Rosendo Chendy Leon (all percussion on "Chant of the Exiled").

From the opening track, one can hear the influences of all the bands Brown has been part of.  The tricky rhythms of "Mahishmatish" has that M-Base feel of Steve Coleman while "Promessa" would sound just fine as part of Andy Milne's Dapp Theory. Yet, not all of the tracks are that easy to pin down.  "Chant of the Exiled (Abeng)" moves steadily forward on Leon's percussion while the melody is handled by the alto sax and trumpet.  The track never hurries; instead, the sensuous melody line is the focus.  The quiet acoustic piano melody of "This Lotus Ascension" also takes its time to develop, first unaccompanied then handed over to the bass and alto sax.  The music continually builds as Deniz pushes forward toward a fiery climax and, then, a quick piano interlude before returning to a re-statement of the main theme.

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The shimmering opening of "Parity of Esteem (An Illustration of Imbalance)" illustrates not only the handsome melody but the impressive counterpoint provided by the leader. The piece turns turbulent in the middle, roiling piano phrases over the hypnotic bass and rampaging drums doesn't let up until the alto sax returns to the melody. The final cut, "Achilles & The Tortoise", is an exciting spotlight for Deniz (a Cuban native now living in Toronto, CA) and pianist Donnelly (1/3rd of Myriad3) who are constantly pushed forward by the aggressive drums and melodic bass. In fact, Brown takes a fine solo on the second half of the piece.

"Abeng" is music that comes at the listener from multiple perspectives, from the more contemporary edges of fusion to the funk experimentations of Weather Report and Yellowjackets.  One can hear the melodic influences of Jaco Pastorious and Jimmy Haslip on the sound of Rich Brown but he's no copycat.  This is music that's worth your attention - then go back and find his splendid 2014 solo bass album "Between Heaviness and Here."

For more information and to listen to the music, go to rinsethealgorithm.bandcamp.com.

Here's Rich Brown & The Abeng performing a tune from the album: