One of the most overused expressions of all time is 'you can't teach an old dog new tricks', and speaking as an elder schnauzer myself I can't deny that there is a kibble of truth contained somewhere in there. Still, I have been known to occasionally learn a new thing or two if given a … Continue reading Music Appreciation 2.0
Category: Retirement
REVIEW: Jamie Davis – Vibe Over Perfection
I've written a couple of reviews recently that spotlight recordings of legendary performances from the Monterey Jazz Festival, but this time around I'm focusing on an artist who will soon be making his very first appearance at the storied show. Vocalist Jamie Davis will be bringing his mellow baritone to Monterey in September, close on … Continue reading REVIEW: Jamie Davis – Vibe Over Perfection
Singing About Sickness In New Orleans
New Orleans has always been home to a rich musical heritage, with a history of influence on almost every kind of music, especially jazz and R&B. Among the performers in the latter genre have been an almost endless parade of locally-grown artists, many of whom went on to major stardom. Names like Fats Domino, Lloyd … Continue reading Singing About Sickness In New Orleans
REVIEW: 50 Years Of Dave Brubeck – Live At The Monterey Jazz Festival (1958-2007)
Another release in Concord's series of albums paying tribute to the Monterey Jazz Festival (previously: Cal Tjader) is one that fits me like a bespoke suit, because it features one of my favorites -- Dave Brubeck. 50 Years Of Dave Brubeck - Live At The Monterey Jazz Festival (1958-2007) is exactly what you'd infer from … Continue reading REVIEW: 50 Years Of Dave Brubeck – Live At The Monterey Jazz Festival (1958-2007)
Gene Pitney – Troubadour To Troubled Teens
Although in his day he was often dismissed as a lightweight teen idol who just churned out song after song about teenage agony and angst, Gene Pitney managed to sustain a long and mostly successful career. Along the way he explored other genres, performing with everyone from George Jones to the Rolling Stones, and eventually … Continue reading Gene Pitney – Troubadour To Troubled Teens
REVIEW: Yusef Lateef – Eastern Sounds
As I mentioned in an earlier review, Concord Music Group has become a real force in the music industry, and they also have a comprehensive and vibrant website that offers music fans a lot of different looks. One of the best parts is their new Collector's Corner section, which not only features a lot of … Continue reading REVIEW: Yusef Lateef – Eastern Sounds
Musical Memories Of — Snakes?
Americana is a music genre that might be a little tough to pin down but it can be loosely described as a diversified mix of traditional American music. Recently I was listening to some of it while working my way through the dustier corners of my music collection, and I stumbled across one I hadn't … Continue reading Musical Memories Of — Snakes?
REVIEW: The Best of Cal Tjader: Live at the Monterey Jazz Festival 1958-1980
Concord Music Group has carved out a prominent role for itself in today's music world as one of the most diversified sources for recordings of all genres, with an especially strong presence in jazz. One of the many special collections they've made available is a series of releases based on historical performances at the Monterey … Continue reading REVIEW: The Best of Cal Tjader: Live at the Monterey Jazz Festival 1958-1980
Whippoorwills And Whippersnappers
It's a well known fact that country music often leans a little heavily on certain themes, especially those dealing with the singer's unhappiness. And even though the reasons for the gloomy mood might vary all the way from poverty to prison to past loves, it's a good bet that loneliness will be near the top … Continue reading Whippoorwills And Whippersnappers
REVIEW: Gary Morgan & PanAmericana! – Felicidade
For the last decade or so, one of the best-kept secrets in Latin jazz is a transplanted Canadian who is now living in New York. But Gary Morgan and his 20 piece orchestra PanAmericana! (complete with exclamation point) just might break out of that anonymity with their latest album, Felicidade, now out on the Consolidated … Continue reading REVIEW: Gary Morgan & PanAmericana! – Felicidade
Geezer Music Club 