By Morton Shlatbotnik, Shepherd Express On his new album, Kirk Lightsey performs ambitious, challenging music, several Wayne Shorter compositions, John Coltrane’s “Giant Steps.” Read more here.
By Morton Shlatbotnik, Shepherd Express Guitarist Lorne Lofsky played with some of the greats in old school jazz—Oscar Peterson, Ray Brown, Chet Baker—and survived to become part of that old school. Read more here.
By Morton Shlabotnik, Shepherd Express One of the most enduring compositions from late ‘40s bebop, the haunting melody of “Round Midnight,” was written by Thelonious Monk. Perhaps Teodress Avery was wise not to include “Round Midnight” in his tribute to Monk. Instead, the tenor and soprano saxophonist choses 10 other Monk numbers. Read the full … Read More
By Morton Shlabotnik, Shepherd Express Azat Bayazitov is steeped in the sound of post-1960, post-bop jazz. Read this review here.
By Morton Shlabotnik, Shepherd Express When an album opens with a drum solo, you can bet the band leaders is sitting behind the kit, a wide grin covering his face. Read this full review here.
By Morton Shlabotnik, Shepherd Express The economics of putting a jazz orchestra on the road may be daunting but that doesn’t prevent studio sessions from taking place. Woodwind player Charles Pillow assembled an ensemble two-dozen strong to record Chamber Jazz. Read the full review here.
Morton Shlabotnik, Shepherd Express The lineup is not unheard of but remains unusual: a jazz trio consisting of violin, bass and drums. But calling Wonderment a jazz album doesn’t entirely define it. Violinist Zach Brock takes the lead, defining the melodies as Matt Ulery maintains thrumming bass lines and Jon Deitemyer tictocs on drums. Surprises … Read More
