Articles by: S. Victor Aaron

Vinyl

Matana Roberts – Live In London (2011)

A few years ago when I sat down and took a stab at identifying some up and coming women in a world of instrumental jazz still dominated by men, one of those ten names that came to mind was avant garde saxophonist Matana Roberts. After moving to NYC from herRead More

Vinyl

Half Notes: Harris Eisenstadt – Canada Day II (2011)

The Toronto-derived drummer, composer and bandleader Harris Eisenstadt was described by The New York Times jazz critic Nate Chinen as taking a “fixer’s approach to music making, looking for ways to fit the pieces together,” and while I agree with the praise he and others have heaped on Eisenstadt, IRead More

Vinyl

Half Notes: Steve Khan – Parting Shot (2011)

My first encounter with the musicianship of fusion guitarist Steve Khan came from Billy Joel’s 1978 album 52nd Street. I still remember a studio picture of Khan in the vinyl record’s sleeve, big black hair, mustache, guitar and all. These days, Khan doesn’t have the big black hair anymore, butRead More

Vinyl

One Track Mind: Aloe Blacc, "Mama Hold My Hand" (2010)

Just as Mike and the Mechanics’ “The Living Years” reminds me of my father, there’s now a song that brings fond thoughts of my dear mother, to whom I dedicate this song. During this time of year, a lot of us reflect a lot on what our mother means toRead More

Steely Dan Sunday: "Brooklyn" from 'Can't Buy a Thrill' (1972)

Steely Dan Sunday: “Brooklyn” from ‘Can’t Buy a Thrill’ (1972)

I don’t know how many Steely Dan fans are also into country music, but “Brooklyn” showed the two seemingly opposed passions could co-exist quite nicely.

Vinyl

Half Notes: Lisa Hilton – Underground (2011)

The lithe, understated pianist Lisa Hilton has led a dozen dates, and Underground is record no. 13. There’s a nocturnal ambience about her brand of jazz, one she seems to play up with past album titles like Cocktails at Eight…, Jazz After Hours, Midnight in Manhattan and After Dark. Moreover,Read More

Vinyl

Dave Juarez – Round Red Light (2011)

For a musician who has devoted his life since early childhood toward his craft and studied for many years as well as earning his stripes in the bars of the great jazz cities of the world, the release of that first album has to be a feeling of relief, elationRead More

Vinyl

Larry Coryell – With the Wide Hive Players (2011)

While we’ve talked about a lot of fusion guitarists over the last five years, this is about a new album by the first one. You May Also Like: Larry Coryell – ‘Last Swing With Ireland’ (2021) Murali Coryell – Mr. Senator (2016)

Steely Dan Sunday: "Fire In the Hole" from Can't Buy a Thrill (1972)

Steely Dan Sunday: “Fire In the Hole” from Can’t Buy a Thrill (1972)

All hail chief engineer Roger Nichols, referred to in the album credits since Steely Dan’s debut as “The Immortal.”

Vinyl

Marcin Wasilewski Trio – Faithful (2011)

One of ECM’s rising stars is back three years after knocking it out of the park with a sensational album the last time around. Marcin Wasilewski leads a trio from Poland You May Also Like: Marcin Wasilewski Trio feat. Joe Lovano – ‘Arctic Riff’ (2020)