by Larry Blumenfeld, Wall Street Journal Were he still alive, Art Blakey would turn 100 on Oct. 11. The drummer, a singular force in jazz, died in 1990 at age 71. The Jazz Messengers, the group Blakey led for more than three decades, defined a style often called “hard bop” and helped shape a yet … Read More
‘The Dream Is You: Vanessa Rubin Sings Tadd Dameron’ Review: Vocalist Vanessa Rubin honors Tadd Dameron with an album that highlights his compositional genius. By Martin Johnson, The Wall Street Journal The great composer and arranger Tadd Dameron (1917-1965) wrote “If You Could See Me Now,” one of Sarah Vaughan’s signature songs, but until now … Read More
‘Stomping Off From Greenwood’ by Greg Ward Review The saxophonist’s Rogue’s Parade ensemble reveals its invigorating rapport on a new album. By Martin Johnson, The Wall Street Journal With the aim of furthering his jazz career, alto saxophonist Greg Ward moved from Chicago to New York 10 years ago. He accomplished his objective by returning … Read More
