Appreciations

Vinyl

David Bowie: A (Belated) Appreciation

I think I finally understood David Bowie sometime around Christmas 2019.

Pigeonholing Grover Washington Jr. as Smooth Jazz Was Such a Big Mistake

Pigeonholing Grover Washington Jr. as Smooth Jazz Was Such a Big Mistake

Dig deeper into Grover Washington Jr. – who died 20 years ago today – and you’ll see why he retains the title of Mister Magic for us.

Vinyl

Ginger Baker (1939-2019): An Apprecation

My only intersection with Ginger Baker became one of the most amazing nights of music I’ve ever seen.

How Paul Allen Saved the Seattle Cinerama

How Paul Allen Saved the Seattle Cinerama

In memory of Paul Allen, we’re returning to Mike Tiano’s examination of the late Microsoft co-founder’s role in preserving the Seattle Cinerama Theater.

Vinyl

Geoff Emerick (1946-2018): An Appreciation

The man who specialized in “every sound there is,” Geoff Emerick left a lasting impact on music that will forever be celebrated.

New Orleans at 300: In Search of Jazz

New Orleans at 300: In Search of Jazz

New Orleans is a place where many cultures met in the past, and it continues to draw people from all over the world – including jazz lovers like me.

Vinyl

Moody Blues’ Ray Thomas (1941-2018): An Appreciation

The Moody Blues have an unusual hold over fans, with many believing the group has mystical, otherworldly powers. And maybe they do.

Vinyl

Denise LaSalle, Soul-Blues Belter (1939-2018): An Appreciation

We loved the sexy, hard-as-nails Denise LaSalle for creating a series of titanic grooves, and also because we were never certain that she couldn’t have kicked our ass.

The Wild One, Forever: In Appreciation of Tom Petty

The Wild One, Forever: In Appreciation of Tom Petty

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers represented what we strive for across so many aspects of our lives: consistency, dependability, and longevity.

Vinyl

Walter Becker of Steely Dan (1950-2017): An Appreciation

Walter Becker’s death invites a renewed appreciation of the unique contributions to music by Steely Dan.