While listening to Future Day, the David Finck Quartet's debut album newly out on the Soundbrush label, I found myself returning again and again to one thought. It's so doggone good that the only mystery is -- why did the talented bassist wait so long? Over the past three decades, Finck has worked with some … Continue reading REVIEW: The David Finck Quartet – Future Day
Category: Jazz
Lionel Hampton Got The Job – And Became A Legend
The first time I ever became aware of vibes legend Lionel Hampton was when he appeared as himself in The Benny Goodman Story. He was one of several real musicians appearing in the movie, although he had more screen time than most of the others. The movie portrayed him as the proprietor of a diner … Continue reading Lionel Hampton Got The Job – And Became A Legend
Friends And The Nature Of Friendship
A friend of mine is having a problem with his computer and his furnace at the same time, which is a tough double-header for anyone to handle. I've tried to offer some advice with the computer but don't know if I can do him any good. At least his plumbing is OK so he doesn't … Continue reading Friends And The Nature Of Friendship
REVIEW: Frank Rosolino & Carl Fontana – Trombone Heaven: Vancouver 1978
When reviewing a new album, I usually give some background about the musical history of the artist, but I seldom dig too deeply into other aspects of their life. However, Trombone Heaven - Vancouver 1978, a new release from Uptown Records that showcases a live performance by trombone masters Frank Rosolino and Carl Fontana, has … Continue reading REVIEW: Frank Rosolino & Carl Fontana – Trombone Heaven: Vancouver 1978
Cuttin’ Wax In Post-War Motown
When I was a very small boy on a visit to post-war Detroit, I had an experience that might surprise you -- or at least it will until you hear the details. It happened one day when I found myself "cuttin' wax" - making a record - and this was years before Motown Records was … Continue reading Cuttin’ Wax In Post-War Motown
REVIEW: Chick Corea & Gary Burton – New Crystal Silence
I guess it's not unusual for two top-flight jazz musicians to form a bond that causes them to frequently come together through the years and work as a duet, but you won't find many pairs with the virtuosity - and the longevity - of Chick Corea and Gary Burton. For over thirty-five years, the innovative … Continue reading REVIEW: Chick Corea & Gary Burton – New Crystal Silence
WWII Servicemen Loved ‘GI Jo’ – Jo Stafford
I've written before about a subject that's always fascinated me, the history of songbirds -- the ladies who sang for the big bands, entertaining fans and at the same time adding a little class to the bandstand. Many of them - such as Dinah Shore, Ella Fitzgerald, and Doris Day - went on to solo … Continue reading WWII Servicemen Loved ‘GI Jo’ – Jo Stafford
REVIEW: Bruce Eskovitz Jazz Orchestra – Invitation
Nothing against Bruce Eskovitz, but 'The Bruce Eskovitz Jazz Orchestra' has to be one of the most unwieldy names around. That's probably why the group led by the multi-talented instrumentalist commonly goes by the name BEJO, and since lazy is my middle name I think I'll save some keystrokes and go with BEJO too. Flying … Continue reading REVIEW: Bruce Eskovitz Jazz Orchestra – Invitation
REVIEW: Sathima Bea Benjamin – A Morning In Paris
Sathima Bea Benjamin is not a name that leaps to mind when considering jazz songbirds of the last several decades, but the South African singer is a very respected artist who has put together a nice career. That aside, the possibility of an unfulfilled musical destiny will always be part of her story. That subject … Continue reading REVIEW: Sathima Bea Benjamin – A Morning In Paris
Origins of Rock & Roll – Jivin’ With Jordan
When I was a teenager in the 1950's, rock and roll was catching the attention of most of my contemporaries. I wasn't immune to its attraction, but while I kept an eye on what was happening in that area I was also beginning to form my lifelong affection for the type of big band music … Continue reading Origins of Rock & Roll – Jivin’ With Jordan
Geezer Music Club 