Michael Ullman
Made up of a Californian, a Palestinian, and a native of Cyprus, Ize Trio is about probing into the meaning of cultural differences as well as learning each other’s personal characteristics.
This new album from Norma Winstone and Kit Downes is a marvel.
The music on David Murray’s” “Francesca” is both antic and intense; it’s played by a responsive and inventive quartet who sound like they are having considerable fun entertaining themselves.
What seems remarkable here is the way that trumpeter Tomasz Stanko enters into unplanned conversational interchanges, including flickers of wit, with the other members of the quartet.
Witty, varied, played warmly and arranged dexterously, avoiding the glum, the explorations on “A Second Life” should please just about every jazz fan.
The spirited restraint of the pianist’s playing — its omnipresent precision and clarity — sounds contemporary and fresh.
I admire Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s wit and daring, her singularly effective guitar playing, and the subtlety of her singing.
“Sun Ra: At the Showcase Live in Chicago, 1976 – 1977” offers a rare opportunity for us 21st century listeners to experience live sets by a distinctive musical spirit.
Pianist Noah Haidu’s impeccably performed and recorded “Standards II” is a winner.
This is a blemished set that I, a Johnny Griffin enthusiast, am glad to have.
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