The Ones That (Almost) Got Away + Remember

Invariably, I forget to list a CD (or 4) among my "Favorites" because it was loaned to someone and not returned or I moved it out of one pile into another (my desk can take on the form of an archaeological dig, at times) or, most often, I forgot.

Such is the case with the delightfuand irreverent mini-CD from trombonist/composer Jacob Garchik.  Clocking in at just over 28 minutes, "The Heavens: The Atheist Gospel Trombone Album" (Yestereve Recordings) is a funky exploration of faith, belief, and social responsibility that will rock you to the core.  Garchik overdubs sousaphone, baritone horn, slide trumpet and alto horn to aid and abet his trombone.  What you get is a healthy dollop of New Orleans, trad jazz, James Brown, the blues, shades of Jewish liturgical music, dance music and much more.  If you have yet to partake in this sweet slice of earthy and earthly delights, go to www.jacobgarchik.com.

I did not have the opportunity to review "By A Little Light" (Greenleaf Records), the 4th CD from bassist/composer Matt Ulery. Blending classical elements with jazz and folk music, this music enters one's brain and won't let go.  This music is not geared towards one audience; instead, it's a deeply personal experience with the composer speaking through various soloists, including pianists Rob Clearfield or Ben Lewis and violinist Zach Brock (whose 2012 CrissCross CD "Almost Never Was" deserves to be noticed as well).  Ulery also contributes a fascinating group of lyrics, most sung by Grazyna Auguscik (the composer sings harmony as well as takes the lead on 1 track.)  This 2-CD set will continue to grow on you as you listen because the music is so smart and there is so much going on (without the songs ever feeling cluttered.)  To find out more, go mattulery.com.

Pianist Luis Perdomo, who can often be seen and heard pushing, prodding and propelling the music of saxophonist Miguel Zenon, released 2 CDs in 2012.  "Universal Mind" (RKM Music) received numerous good reviews (deservedly so) but it was "The Infancia Project" (CrissCross Records) that really shook the house.  With a quintet featuring tenor saxophonist Mark Shim, percussionist Mauricio Herrera and the splendid rhythm section of Ignacio Berroa (drums) and Andy Gonzalez (bass), Perdomo plays original music plus classics from Miles Davis ("Solar"), Ornette Coleman ("Happy House") and Bud Powell ("Un Poco Loco") and plays them all with such joy and verve that it's hard not to get hooked.  It's a special pleasure to hear the woefully under-appreciated Mark Shim flying over the fiery rhythm section.  To find out more, go to www.luisperdomojazz.com.

The trio of Sam Rivers (tenor saxophone, soprano saxophone, flute, piano), Dave Holland (bass) and Barry Altschul (drums) reunited in 2007 to perform for WKCR-FM's Sam Rivers Festival.  They had not played together in over 25 years and hit the stage for 2 continuous sets of totally improvised music.  "Reunion: Live In New York" (Pi Recordings) is the document of those 2 sets.  Mr. Rivers was 83 &2/3rds years old at the time of this concert (he died the day after Christmas in 2011) and, dear me, sounds as vibrant, creative and full of fire as he did during the Trio's time together in the 1970s.  Holland and Altschul are equal partners in this venture, giving this music a foundation that "frees" Mr. Rivers to go wherever his spirit takes him.  Delightful, challenging, raucous and impressionistic, this "Reunion" is a great union of the "spirits."  Go to www.pirecordings.com for more information.

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I must admit to missing "The Jazz Session", Jason Crane's wonderful podcast that he shut down in late October of this year. He seems to be in good mental shape and there's hope he will return to his journalistic endeavors but his podcast still can (and should) be accessed at www.thejazzsession.com.   It remains a pleasure to read the writings of Peter Hum, Doug Ramsey, Nate Chinen, Ethan Iverson, David Adler,  Patrick Jarenwattananon at NPR's "A Blog Supreme", and other fine jazz journalists who all write with great passion and understanding of the music and its role in this country and the world.  And, if you need to explore the "freer" side of music, "Chilly Jay Chill" and "Prof. Drew LeDrew" of the blog "Destination: OUT" continue to teach and preach the joys of great improvisational music.

It's been 11 days since the horrific events in Newtown, CT, and we are still reeling from the aftershock. There are plenty of words being thrown around about gun control, mental health issues, and school security; one hopes that real progress can be made to make such incidents as the ones in Columbine, Virginia Tech and Newtown as rare as possible.  Madness abounds (and seems to be worse when guns are involved) and, while we reel from all these horrible events, we lose sight of the fact that millions of children go to bed hungry every night, that their parents can not find meaningful work and that educational systems around the country are struggling to keep these young students from succumbing to fatigue and burnout.

In the meantime, there are numerous ways to remember the victims of the December 11, 2012 shooting.  If you wish to remember and support the family of Ana Grace Marquez-Greene (pictured above), the daughter of Nelba Marquez and saxophonist/educator Jimmy Greene, you can do so by going to anagracefund.com.   And, then, you should call your legislators, speak to your community leaders and become an activist for change in this nation.  We'll never completely stop violent attacks on innocent people (freedoms such as we in the United States often come with wretched side-effects) but we can and should help bring about an end to hunger and recognize the need for better education for all of our young people.

The Rest Of The Best Of....

"Ten Freedom Summers" (Cuneiform Records), the 4-CD masterwork by composer/ arranger/trumpeter Wadada Leo Smith, is a sprawling, introspective, abstract on the Civil Rights Movement in the United States in the 1950s and 60s.  Scored for both Smith's Golden Quartet/Quintet and the 9-member Southwest Chamber Music ensemble, the music pays tribute to, remembers and reminds us of both the everyday heroes and famous people who made the attempt to bring equality to African-Americans a century after the Emancipation Proclamation.  Along the way, Smith pays tribute to September 11, 2001, to the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C., to Dr. King, Rosa Parks and much more.  There are no lyrics or poems only the titles to jog our memories or teach us a period History books often gloss over.  The music has a fascinating pull and I imagine this powerful work is even more so heard live with the graphics behind and above the musicians

Solo saxophone recordings are not unique but few have the blend of intellect, melody and invention that permeates "The Art of the Soprano: Vol. 1" (self-released), the latest exploration of saxophonist Sam Newsome's chosen instrument.  By shuffling 3 suites ("The Ellington Medley", "A Love Supreme", and "Soprano de Africana") Newsome illuminates the similarities and differences in the music as well as exhibiting his mastery over the soprano saxophone.  Yet, this is no technical exercise (although his technique is mighty impressive) but a wonderful journey into imagination.  To find out more, go to www.samnewsome.com.

Alto saxophonist/composer Ted Nash pays tribute to both the comic book imagination of his youth and the amazing Ornette Coleman Quartet of 1958-1962 on "The Creep"(Plastic Sax Records). Powered by bassist Paul Sikivie and drummer Ulysses Owens plus aided by his faithful, full-toned, trumpet sidekick Ron Horton, Nash's music is an absolute treat, his alto lines flying above the exciting rhythms.  This project has the feel of a summer vacation, throwing caution to the wind and just having a great time.  While you dig the music, you should go to www.tednash.com and read his fun blog; one gets quite the view of a working musician dealingwith everyday life.

In the aftermath of the December 14, 2012, school tragedy in Newtown, Connecticut, I could understand how hard it becomes to listen to music.  "Be Still" (Greenleaf Music) is Dave Douglas's assignment from and tribute to his mother - she asked that he create a program of music for her memorial service. Blending traditional American folk music with jazz is nothing new but rarely has the music had the clarity that this project displays from beginning to end. The rhythm section of Linda Oh (bass), Rudy Royston (drums) and Matt Mitchell (piano) gently yet solidly supports Douglas, saxophonist Jon Irabagon and the emotional vocal work of Aoife O'Donovan.  Peaceful, probing, and honest music that deserves many listenings, even when life is at its happiest, "Be Still" exhibits the power of continued creativity.

In a recent interview in Keyboard Magazine (which you can read in full by going to www.fredhersch.com), the pianist talks about his approach to his Trio music; "I want danger. And this trio to me has the requisite amount of danger, and at the same time, the requisite amount of respect and depth, in equal parts." Fred Hersch, along with bassist John Hebert and drummer Eric McPherson, really does come "Alive At The Vanguard" (Palmetto Records) and this CD, recorded several years after the pianist's nearly-fatal illness, bustles with life and shines with quiet joy.  Melody swims alongside harmony, rhythms jump, dance and caress while solos are trenchant and heartfelt.   

Whether organizing and leading the Captain Black Big Band or fronting a piano trio, Orrin Evans creates music that is as engaging as it is challenging.  Evans is a musician whose musical vocabulary seems limitless.  "Flip The Script" (Posi-Tone Records) features the interactive trio of Evans, Ben Wolfe (bass) and Donald Edwards (drums) moving through a program where rhythm, harmony and melody move in and out in a manner that belies slickness; one can intuit how comfortable and free the musicians feel with each other and the material. Yes, there are countless piano trio recording to choose from  - many of them impressive (see paragraph above) - but Orrin Evans and company make the time spent listening well worth it.

"Suite of the East" (Anzic Records) may have been recorded 6 years ago but this music feels fresh, invigorating and contemporary.  Composer/bassist Omer Avital assembled this ensemble of Omer Klein (piano), Joel Frahm (tenor saxophone), Avishai Cohen (trumpet) and Daniel Freedman (drums) knowing the musicians could interpret his blend of Israeli, North African and African-American music so that the listener would concentrate on the creativity and the power (this music hits many incredible climaxes) within his ideas.  Plus, Avital is a very impressive bassist, such a melodic and rhythmic force, that one is easily swept up in this journey.

Yes, there will be one more column dedicated to 2012 that will be concerned with several other recordings (most of which I did not get to review) that resonated deeply over the year.  In the meantime, have a peaceful Holiday season, one in which the music you love can help soothe the wounds caused by the (often) uncaring world.

Favorites From a Great Year! Gentlemen Now!

As I stroll through my reviews for the year, there are several CDs I did not get to review that are among my favorites.  Such is the case with the first on this part of the list.

Since he has been recording for his own label, Marsalis Music, Branford Marsalis has gone from strength to strength.  He has toured the world with his quartet, recorded with his Farther Ellis and brothers, played with symphony orchestras and worked with Harry Connick, Jr. to help rebuild in his native city of New Orleans.  His Quartet really began to hits its stride with the addition of pianist Joey Calderazzo who joined after the tragic passing of Kenny Kirkland.  Bassist Eric Revis joined in 1998 to create a versatile rhythm section with drummer Jeff "Tain" Watts; that human dynamo left amicably in 2009 (after 25 years!) and was replaced by 18 year old Justin Faulkner. "4 MFs Playin' Tunes" is his first recording with the band and an absolute joy to listen to.  The interactions of the musicians are so impressive and it's because this music is more about melodic invention than technical prowess. O yes, they can play and there are numerous fine solos but this program is the strongest Branford Marsalis (and his group) has ever put on CD or Lp.  For more information, go to www.branfordmarsalis.com.

When I first spoke to arranger Ryan Truesdell about his Gil Evans Project, it was just after he initiated the ArtistShare program to raise the money necessary to record and release this newly discovered treasure trove.  The result?  "Centennial" shows Evans' creativity that spanned 6 decades, from his beginnings in the Claude Thornhill Orchestra to pieces made famous by Miles Davis to works written for his own progressive big band that was active from the early 1970s to Evans death in 1988.  With 10 songs and 35 participants (including 3 vocalists), Truesdell has produced a musical document that one understands as the first salvo of arrangements and compositions that will only enhance the legacy of Gil Evans.  If you have yet to hear this delightful music, go to www.ryantruesdell.com.

"Anti-Mass" (Jekab's Music) is the 4th release from composer/trumpeter Erik Jekabson, filled with songs that reverberate in the mind long after one listens.  A resident of the San Francisco Bay Area, he has played and recorded with a score of fine musicians over the past 15 years.  This music, composed for a sextet that features saxophone, violin, viola, bass, and drums (plus vibes), is inspired by the composer's numerous walks through DeYoung Museum of San Francisco.  Like the various pieces of art, this music goes in many directions, with abrupt changes of tempo and dynamics, featuring finely constructed melodies and intelligent harmonies.  The title track, inspired by British sculptor Cornelia Parker's created from the charred remains of a Southern Baptist Church attacked by arsonists, is riveting thanks to the fine work of the soloists (saxophonist Dayna Stephens, violinist Mads Tolling and the leader) and the intricate work of the rhythm section.  To find out more, go to www.erikjekabson.com.

Drummer/composer Harris Eisenstadt released 2 CDs this Spring and both deserve to be on this list.  "Canada Day III" (Songlines) features his Quintet of Nate Wooley (trumpet), Matt Bauder (tenor saxophone), Garth Stevenson (acoustic bass) and the wonderfully atmospheric vibraphone work of Chris Dingman. Eisenstadt's music for this group is highly melodic, at times playful, and filled with wonderful interactions.  The other CD, "Canada Day Octet" (482 Music), adds Ray Anderson (trombone), Dan Peck (tuba) and Jason Mears (alto saxophone) to the band to play the 40-minute long, 4-part suite titled "The Ombudsman" and a ballad. Far from being cluttered, the result is a fascinating journey with fine solos and intricate harmonies.  If you ever have the opportunity to see either one or both of these ensembles, you must do so. For more information, go to www.harriseisenstadt.com.

Other CDs on the list include "Multiverse" (Jazzheads), the raucous music of percussionist Bobby Sanabria and his Big Band, organist Brian Charette's "Music for Organ Sextette" (SteepleChase) and Bob Brookmeyer's final recording with his New Art Orchestra, "Standards" (ArtistShare).

Just a 5 or 6 more to go on this list and I'll get to them soon.  Be well all!

Favorites From a Great Year! Ladies First!

For me, 2012 was quite a year.  I became a grandparent for the first time, my teaching gig at Quinnipiac University was ever-so-satisfying and the amount of great music that crossed my desk was impressive.  As long-time readers (bless you all) might remember, I find it hard to contain myself to a Top Ten so here's Part 1 of a list that will ultimately stretch to over 20.

"Tales of the Unusual" (Jazzed Media), the 8th CD from singer-songwriter Lorraine Feather, was the first I had ever heard (writes I, blushing and embarrassed) and hooked me immediately with its literate lyrics, smashing vocals, superb musicianship and healthy dollop of humor.  Turns out, Ms. Feather has worked with many of the musicians and songwriters on this CD a number of times before.  Played it again the other day and reinforced my view that, though the "tales" may be "unusual", the music is stellar (and not just by starlight.)  Her next recording is a duo with the phenomenal young pianist Stephanie Trick - I have heard the music(they call their duo Nouveau Stride) and am saving a space in the 2013 "Favorites."

2012 was also the year I really listened to the music of Blossom Dearie (1924-2009), mainly due to the excellent "Digging Me, Digging You" (Anzic Records), the work of Amy Cervini.  To her credit, Ms. Cervini did not attempt to recreate Ms. Dearie's soft vocaliationss - instead, she assembled a fine rhythm section (pianist Bruce Barth, bassist Matt Aronoff and drummer Matt Wilson), chose 13 songs from across her subject's long career and asked her husband (Oded Lev-Ari) for some smart arrangements and the rest is an enjoyable tribute that stands on its own.  Not content with a great CD, Ms. Cervini and Mr Lev-Ari also produced a baby girl in 2012 - the hits just keep on coming!

That bassist/composer Linda Oh's second CD as a leader, "Initial Here" (Greenleaf Music) is as good as it is should come as no surprise - Ms. Oh is one intense musician. If you have ever seen in person (with Dave Douglas, for instance), you know she is always "inside" the music.  This recording features pianist Fabian Almazan, saxophonist Dayna Stephens and the fine drummer Rudy Royston (he'll show up again on this list) and the material ranges from straight-ahead jazz to music with classical influences and some well-played funk.  All in all, there is not a weak track - this music sticks in one's mind for a long time.

Anne Mette Iversen is also a bassist/composer and she also covers a wide swath of territory in her compositions.  For the sparkling 2-CD "Poetry of Earth" (BJU Records), the bassist created an aural wonderland for the words of poets  A.E. Housman, Thomas Hardy, John Keats, Lene Poulsen, Henrik Ibsen  as well as the contemporary Danish poet Svende Grøn and put them in the impressive hands and voices of pianist Dan Tepper, saxophonist/flutist/bass clarinetist John Ellis along with vocalists Maria Neckham and Christine Skou. The results are an impressive amalgam of jazz and contemporary classical music with nods to Kurt Weill and Danish folk melodies.  Even if you do not understand the poetry (Ms. Skou sings in Danish), the meotion of this music can't help but touch you.

Other CDs on this part of the list (all led by vocalists) include "Silent Movie" by Melissa Stylianou (Anzic Records), "Freedom Flight", the debut CD from Nicky Schrire (self-released), "Unison" from Maria Neckham (Sunnyside Records) and "Blossom & Bee" by Sara Gazarek (Palmetto Records) - the last disk in the list also honors the music of Blossom Dearie and is quite different yet just as excellent as Ms. Cervini's recording.  (Author's note - forgot to include "Girl Talk" (Palmetto Records), the latest by Kate McGarry.)

There's more to come so check later in the week.

Happy Holidays & a very Happy New Year!