Michael Ullman
Jazz Albums Review: The ‘Season’ of Newvelle Muri — Adventurous, Sure-Footed, and Strikingly Lyrical
The sound on these discs couldn’t be more clear or precise; the music is low-key, thoughtful, and resolutely melodious.
The two new Arbors discs are intended to bring Lerner and Loewe back into the jazz mainstream. We will see what happens. But what wonderful music these two groups have produced!
One of the strengths of Laszlo Gardony’s playing is his confident insistence on what he is doing, his impressive self-assurance.
For many listeners, Zigsaw will serve as a welcome introduction, not only to a virtuoso jazz ensemble led by an innovative leader, but to the music of composer Steve Lampert.
Blue World is valuable for its pellucid recording of takes of tunes Coltrane’s fans already love. They will have to have it.
A sense of promise remains a hallmark of the Montreal Jazz Festival — always end by looking forward.
The Montreal Jazz Festival is overwhelming in a way, but somehow genial, and finally inspiring.
Satoko Fujii and Ramon Lopez are clear-eyed adventurers; this is free jazz that shimmers with inquisitive transparency.
These records are filled with music from some of the most intriguing and, indeed, sought after, jazz musicians playing today.
Once again, drummer Ralph Peterson pays fine homage to Art Blakey’s tradition of joyous, hard-edged bashing jazz.
Arts Commentary: What Might the Kennedy Center Best Become?