Check out this thread from JC

[Larry Kart]

Fasstrack -- John Beal used to be (and no doubt still is) one hell of a player. I'm particularly fond of his work with the old Rod Levitt Orchestra. A track, "Vera Cruz," from one of Levitt's RCA Lps was played for Miles in a Blindfold Test some 45 years ago, and while Miles had his doubts about the writing (I don't), he singled out the bass player for well-deserved praise.

[fasstrack]

Fasstrack -- John Beal used to be (and no doubt still is) one hell of a player. I'm particularly fond of his work with the old Rod Levitt Orchestra. A track, "Vera Cruz," from one of Levitt's RCA Lps was played for Miles in a Blindfold Test some 45 years ago, and while Miles had his doubts about the writing (I don't), he singled out the bass player for well-deserved praise.

John still plays his ass off. World class player, world class swinger and a good egg to boot. I tried to use him on my record date recently, but he was unavailable. He's working with everyone all the time. Maybe we can still do it because I only finished half. Money, you see

I spoke to Rod on the phone some years ago. I like to stay in touch with writers because I write and I admire these cats. He is a nice man. I hope he's faring well. Like the great Bill Finegan he's all-but-forgotten in this 'what have you done for me lately' society.

[fasstrack]

Fasstrack -- John Beal used to be (and no doubt still is) one hell of a player. I'm particularly fond of his work with the old Rod Levitt Orchestra. A track, "Vera Cruz," from one of Levitt's RCA Lps was played for Miles in a Blindfold Test some 45 years ago, and while Miles had his doubts about the writing (I don't), he singled out the bass player for well-deserved praise.

Larry, call me Joel. Everyone else does including the IRS. My alternate title is 'asshole'---let's start with Joel though.

[fasstrack]

And tomorrow I go to Brooklyn for a little tete-de-tete with noted guitarist/singer/internet loudmouth Doug Wamble. we've battled for years and I told him music speaks loudest. He's a smart guy with a lot to say, though. He also has a good group and is an interesting player. He was gracious to invite me. We're supposed to play a tune or two together and pour a beer (hopefully not over a head) afterwards. Barbe's 9th St. near 6th Ave. Park Slope, Brooklyn. 10-12 PM (don't know when I play, but it's a 2-set gig. Near the 2,3, f and D trains.

'kay, that's where we'll search for the body first.

This shit between Doug and myself has been going on for three years on various websites, starting with Bran's (Doug records for marsalis Music and has 2 CDs out). I take things too seriously and let people get under my skin. He's probably cool once you get to know him. The thing tomorrow is a duo with his bass player. I bet halfway through the set will practically be tongue kissing. We love to play. Who doesn't?