LWayne

I live in Pittsburgh and have heard no rumor about Freddie Redd moving here or playing at any local club but will keep an eye open... I would love to catch him live and will post any confirmed gig LWayne

"First of Year" meaning 2008 not 2007? That would be a year after the original plan; but progress nonetheless. LWayne

Any insight as to the fate of this venerable institution? Since there was a benefit concert in March, I believe, I have not read any speculation as to whether the club will reopen in a new location as planned. My concern is that the more time passes... Here's hoping and praying the Jazz Showcase comes back as it provided many great memories I am listening to the Danilo Perez "Live at the Jazz Showcase" as I compose this). LWayne

Last week I was traveling through New York on business during a hectic week owing to the traffic caused by fashion week and the US Open in town. Nevertheless, I journeyed to Mecca (also known as the Village Vanguard) to catch an eagerly anticipated set by the Paul Motian/ Bill Frisell/ Joe Lovano trio. As if the pilgrimage itself was not enough, the show was unbelievable! This is a tight group of musicians who obviously enjoy playing together and it certainly shows. We caught the first set on Tuesday night; which was "opening night" on what has become an annual two week residency by this group. Although it was only the first night, the group was already tight and familiar. As expected, they played a killer set- demonstrating how much their music has evolved and grown over 20 plus years of playing together. The opener was "Cambodia", one of my favorite songs from their recent "Time and Time Again" CD on ECM. This song played live is the perfect representation of how their sound has evolved and capably demonstrates what makes them such a great group- from Joe Lovano's signature muscular tone on sax, to Bill Frisell's pyrotechnics on delays and effects on his guitar gear box; all ably fueled by the unparalleled timekeeping of Paul Motian. Motian seems to weave inside and outside the beat, depending on the particular song, but he never fails to provide the perfect accent and accompaniment. The song list for the rest of the first set included, among others; Monk's "Light Blue", "Jack of Clubs", "More Than You Know", "This Nearly Was Mine", and "Party Line" All songs were rendered impeccably. This night was truly special and was definitely one of the top concerts of this or any other year. Unforgettable! Catch them while you can... LWayne

I was fortunate enough to catch Zawinul Syndicate twice when they performed in New Orleans during JazzFest. The first time was a little tough to take, but very intriguing. It certainly piqued my curiosity towards learning more about his music. The second time was wonderful as I had gained a better appreciation of the unique fusion sound of Zawinul Syndicate. I had a chance to speak with him briefly after the set and he seemed genuinely pleased at the warm response from the crowd. A great memory that I will treasure. L'Wayne

Horace Parlan "Us Three" on Blue Note Connoisseur for $10 (plus shipping). Thx. LWayne

Last week while in New York for a combined business and pleasure trip, I was able to catch the late set by the Dave Holland Sextet at the Blue Note on opening night (Tuesday, August 21st). In just their second set of performances, the band was playing Tuesday through Saturday as a warm-up for going into the studio the next week to document the first recording of this newly formed group. In the past, I have been fortunate to catch many permutations of Dave Holland’s groups from the unparalleled Dave Holland Quintet, the Dave Holland Octet, and the Grammy- award winning Dave Holland Big Band. I was eager to check out this new ensemble. The Sextet had a rhythm section of Dave Holland on Bass, Mulgrew Miller on Piano, and Eric Harland on Drums. The most notable difference in the sextet’s lineup being the substitution of piano for the vibes/ marimba sound of Steve Nelson which is a defining sound of the quintet. The front line brass consisted of Antonio Hart on sax, Robin Eubanks on trombone, and Alex “Sasha” Sipiagin on Trumpet. Sipiagin is well-known to Dave Holland fans from his participation in the Octet and Big Band groups. The set began with an up-tempo version of “Modern Times”. This song was highlighted by excellent solos from Antonio Hart and Robin Eubanks trading lines on the chorus. The second song, “Mr. B”, was announced as a tribute to the late bassist Ray Brown. This is a often performed selection by the quintet, and the sextet performed a mid-tempo rendition highlighted by a pretty solo by Mulgrew Miller on piano. The last three songs of the set were “Interception”, “Processional”, and the set closer “Double Vision”. Each song demonstrated the trademark Dave Holland stating the theme featuring point/ counter-point among the horns and steady underpinning by the rhythm section. Even the new songs sounded familiar because of this consistent, dynamic, approach. This was a great night of both familiar and new songs performed by a dynamic group that has added piano and trumpet to an already successful and well-known format. One of the better concerts of the year and the audience gave a well-deserved standing ovation. LWayne

While on a business/ pleasure trip to New York last week, I was fortunate enough to catch the opening night of Gary Peacock/ Paul Motian/ Paul Bley at Birdland. This was a performance I was eagerly anticipating given that the trio rarely performs together, and had not recorded together since “Not Two, Not One” on ECM in 1999. In fact, that recording was some 30 plus years after their initial recording on the label. The trio exhibited an almost telepathic chemistry, an unspoken level of communication, as they melded seamlessly on almost every song. Typically, Paul Bley would state the initial rhythm on piano, leaving Peacock and Motian to add their response. From there, the songs took on a life of their own. Bley added melodic flourishes and quotes inspired by other songs at will, but both Peacock and Motian answered flawlessly without fail. The set list included Black and Blue (Waller), Pent-Up House (Rollins), Isn't It Romantic, I Can't Get Started, When Will The Blues Leave (Ornette), and My Old Flame, among others. Needless to say, most of these songs started on a recognizable note and then morphed into something totally original and magnificent given the level of performance and talent exemplified by this trio. This night was certainly one for the ages as I was spellbound by both sets. A night I will not soon forget and definitely one of the best shows of this year. Or any other year! LWayne

...and I would like to add another Italian pianist, Antonio Farao. His release a couple of years ago "Thorn" on Enja with Chris Potter on sax is worth checking out. His more recent work on Cam Jazz is also quite engaging. LWayne

"Notes on Ornette" on Steeplechase is my favorite. Anyone else catch him this past week at Birdland? He was captivating! LWayne

Just received a copy of the new Maria Schneider Orchestra CD "Sky Blue" in the mail yesterday and I have been playing it in constant rotation since. From my initial evaluation, this is a fantastic CD with beautiful arrangements and lush orchestration. Of particular notice are the opener "The 'Pretty' Road" with a tasteful piano intro by Frank Kimbrough and "Rich's Piece" with some very lovely tenor contributed by Rich Perry. Really there are no weak tracks on the CD as the extended "Cerulean Skies" and the title track "Sky Blue" also stand out with some great playing by Ben Monder and understated contributions by Jay Anderson. While it is still early in the year, from the initial spins, this is the best new CD I have heard so far! Go to Artist Share and get a copy. You won't be sorry. LWayne

I have frequented Quasimodo, near the opera house, behind the Zoo Train Station close to Potsdamer Platz and they have had big international names touring on occasion (Christian McBride among others). Worth checking out. LWayne

Getting back to the topic, I caught Rodney Whitaker and Carl Allen at Night town in Cleveland last night. They mostly played selections from their new Mack Avenue CD "Get Ready". Standout tracks included their live version of the title track, "Inner City Blues", "La Shea's Walk", and the lovely ballad "A Heart Enflamed, A Soul Enchanted" composed by Rodney Whitaker for his wife. The quintet included Diego Rivera on soprano and tenor saxes, Mike Jelec on Piano, Whitaker on Bass and Allen on Drums. I did not catch the name of the guitar player. It was a fun concert as both Whitaker and Allen spent a lot of time interacting with the audience. LWayne

Anybody have any details about a USA release? I couldn't fid anything on the W & W website. Is this presently available? Thx, LWayne

I am literally in a state of shock. Although we knew of his illness and the inevitable decline that comes with a brave fight against terminal cancer, it is still hard to accept nonetheless. He was my favorite pianist-bar none. I had the privilege of seeing him perform twice-once with his quartet and once in a rare solo concert where my wife and I were sitting in the first row. We were so close that we could feel the vibrations of the piano as he played. What a rush. After the first set, Andrew came downstairs to chat with a few admirers who had been sitting in the cafe at An Die Musik. We had the rare opportunity to speak with him briefly and sit down with him and listen to some stories. I was so nervous and intimidated that I fumbled for words. Still it was great to be in his presence as he demonstrated that he was a warm, engaging, person. I will always cherish and treasure those memories as well as his music that will live on. God Bless You Andrew. You will be missed. LWayne

Hank Jones was scheduled to play at the tribute to Thelonious Monk next Thursday night, April 26th at the Tri-C Jazz Fest. Today the festival organizers sent out an email providing details for the performance and Hank's name was conspicuously missing from the tribute concert. I know that other threads have reported his recent stay, and dismissal, from the hospital. According to my contact at Tri-C Jazz, he was planning on still making the concert last week when we spoke. I hope and pray that his health has not taken a turn for the worse in the meantime. Any insight? LWayne

Two weeks ago while on a business trip to Boston, I was fortunate to have a night of leisure in New York. One of my favorite clubs in NY is the Village Vanguard, and Paul Motian is one of my favorite drummers, leaders, and composers. So I considered myself quite fortunate to be able to catch the first set on opening night of the Paul Motian Octet. The Vanguard was as crowded as I have ever seen it. Besides all of the tables overflowing, there was a considerable standing-room-only crowd as well to enjoy the show. The group performing that night was basically comprised of the same musicians that recorded "Garden of Eden" on ECM save for substituting Ben Street on Bass for Jakob Bro on Guitar. The Octet lineup was Paul Motian on Drums, Ben Street and Jerome Harris on Bass, Chris Cheek and Tony Malaby on Sax, Steve Cardenas and Ben Monder on Guitar, with the addition of Matt Maneri on Viola. The Octet launched into a spirited version of Charles Mingus' "Goodbye Porkpie Hat" that energized the audience. The band played selections from the "Garden of Eden" album as well as a great version of Motian's own "One Two" from his recent trio album "Time and Time Again" (ironically released that same day) as well as great readings of two standards/ ballads "Count Your Blessings" and "I Surrender" which proved to be the highlight of the set. Motian always seems to have the ability to pull out one or two chestnuts from his repertoire and make them sound fresh again. Overall it was a great night listening to a great band. I always try to make it a point to catch Paul Motian when he is performing as he and his band never disappoint. To top off the night, I purchased a copy of "Alive at the Village Vanguard" from Lorraine Gordon as a keepsake of the evening. LWayne

Yes it should have been posted in "Live Shows" If someone can tell me how to move the posting I will be happy to relocate it. I don't have the technical knowledge on my own. LWayne

Last Saturday night my wife and I attended another concert in the year-long 20th anniversary celebration for the Manchester Craftsmen's Guild in Pittsburgh. This year long celebration has presented concerts from jazz legends and this past Saturday represented the contemporary artists. First up was a new Joe Lovano Quartet. I have been fortunate enough t catch the older version of the quartet with Hank Jones, George Mraz, and Paul Motian touring behind their Blue Note release "A Joyous Encounter" a couple of years ago at the Iridium in New York. That was certainly a memorable concert! This current version is comprised of Lovano on sax, James Weidman on Piano, Esparanza Spalding on bass, and Otis Brown on drums. Although considerably younger than the "Joyous Encounter" quartet, this new group swings and plays very well together. The set opened with an up-tempo, spirited, version of "Bird's Eye View" from "Joyous Encounter". Next up was a version of "Spiritual" by John Coltrane followed by a triumvirate of songs from the recent "Streams of Expression" CD titled "Cool", "Blue Sketches", and "Move". For the encore, the quartet played a lovely version of Billy Strayhorn's "Chelsea Bridge" in honor of our hometown legend. The Bad Plus began the second half of the concert with a storm. This was my first experience catching the group (Ethan Iverson-Piano, Reid Anderson-Bass, and Dave King-Drums) that received an enthusiastic reception from the younger than normal crowd that remained. They played a varied set culled from their back catalogue as well as previewing a forthcoming CD due for release in May. The song titles included "Mint", "Big Eater", "Beryl Loves to Dance", "Thrift Store Jewelry", and the encore of "Tom Sawyer" from Rush. Certainly the percussive attack of The Bad Plus is not for everyone, but the set was anything but dull. The group sound is Dave King attacking his drum set with gusto, the sustained rumbling of Ethan Iverson on the piano, and Reid Anderson playing with a lot of enthusiasm. While I can see why the rock influence of this group is not everyone's taste, I thoroughly enjoyed their interpretations that made for a lively set. Altogether, the best night at MCG this season! LWayne

I am looking for copies of Andrew Hill's Blue Note CDs "Eternal Spirit" and "But Not Farewell" from his second stint with Blue Note... and Lucky Thompson "Tricotism"... I hope there is a chance. Thanks, LWayne

I have been thinking of the late, lamented, Jazz Showcase a lot recently and bemoaning that it is no longer there for any forseeable visits to Chicago. Is there any provisional plans to relocate and reopen at this point or is the benefit the first step in raising the necessary funds without a location targeted? LWayne

Marcello; Agreed-thanks for the picture. Was it taken at the Kitano? LWayne

On a business trip to New York in late January, I was able to treat myself and my colleagues to dinner and a show at the Kitano. Needless to say that we were all quite impressed with the ambiance and service of this quaint Japanese hotel on Park Avenue. The dinner selection at the authentic Hakubai restaurant was outstanding and certainly set the bar high for the evening's concert. The dreadfully cold weather on that Friday night (January 26th) certainly kept the crowd down, but the trio of Frank Kimbrough on piano, Jay Anderson on bass, and Matt Wilson on drums played an outstanding set nevertheless. It was certainly evident that these three musicians, all at the top of their game, meshed well together and quickly developed the cohesion of a smoothly running machine. Even the crowd was small, it was certainly enthusiastic and warmly applauded two set of diverse music drawing from the recent Frank Kimbrough album "Play" ("Beginning", "Waiting in Santander", and the quirky "The Spins") as well as some familiar standards ("Sunset and the Mockingbird"-Ellington, "Giant Steps" and "Bye Bye Blackbird") as well as some surprises thrown in as well. In particular, I enjoyed the trio's version of "Lullabluebye" and "You Only Live Twice", both from Frank's earlier "Lullabluebye" album as well as the unexpected "Indian Summer" and Paul Motian's "Byabalue". Certainly the opprtunity to catch a world class trio in a small, intimate, venue on a cold winter's night combined for the perfect circumstances to make for an enjoyable evening. This was the perfect concert to start 2007 with and will it make it tough to top throughout the year. LWayne

A second vote for "Happy Time" on OJC because of the great music; particularly the memorable version of "Jitterbug Waltz". LWayne

I hope and pray that the Segals can find a new location for the Jazz Showcase. It has become a mecca for me on my fairly frequent business trips to Chicago as I have been there many times. I always looked forward to a show as a "reward" for a job well done. I fear that the longer that the Showcase stays closed that this will become a permanent condition. Even if it reopens, all reports indicate that there will be no national acts during the week-precisely when I was able to enjoy a show on my jaunts. Either way, I will miss the comfort, familiarity, and atmosphere of the club as I would mourn for a departed friend. LWayne