By the time Paul Motian had passed away in November of 2011, he had established a legacy that reaches far beyond a couple of historical evenings at the Village Vanguard in late June of 1961. But becoming known as something much more than Bill Evans’ drummer within arguably jazz’s greatestRead More
One of the most diversely talented pianists of today can make just about any kind of record he wants, and make it good. So why did Craig Taborn choose to make an acoustic jazz trio record with bassist Thomas Morgan and drummer Gerald Cleaver for his second ECM project? YouRead More
Before he mined the rich tonal terrain afforded by improvisation, Milan’s Stefano Battaglia gained international notice as a classical pianist, building his reputation through the European festival circuit. You May Also Like: Marcin Wasilewski Trio feat. Joe Lovano – ‘Arctic Riff’ (2020)
Keith Jarrett famously declared he was leaving behind contemporary electric music not long after leaving Miles Davis’ touring band in 1972 but that self-imposed restriction didn’t stop him from making some of the most unique, creative, and yes, even modern records by a jazz musician during the 70s. You MayRead More
Good improvisers can bolster a melodic development. The really great ones can make up a whole new one out of thin air. You May Also Like: Pat Metheny, Gary Burton + Danny Gottlieb, “Hommage” (2015): One Track Mind Eberhard Weber – ‘The Colours of Chloe’ (1974, 2023 hi-res reissue) JanRead More
Amazon.com Widgets Charles Lloyd, the jazz legend hidden in plain sight, is as productive and vibrant coming up on his 75th birthday as he’s ever been. You May Also Like: Richard Lloyd Giddens Jr. – Mimosas (2017) David Garfield, “Sir Charles” from ‘Stretchin’ Outside the Box’ (2020): One Track MindRead More
Combined with his own vast facility and adventurous spirit, stints with Steely Dan, Dave Holland, Paul Motian and most recently, Pat Metheny’s Unity Band have made Chris Potter one of the best known and accoladed saxophonists of his generation. You May Also Like: Chris Potter – The Dreamer Is TheRead More