Michael Ullman
“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.
Guitarist Julian Lage wants his music to have a certain paradoxical lightness: to be “reckless and durable” at the same time.
“Big George” is polished, tonally elegant, and beautifully recorded
The dynamics of this splendid trio album, “a response to the division and turmoil in our world,” are gracefully balanced.
Jazz Album Review: The Complete Massey Hall Recordings — The Legendary Concert Never Sounded So Good
I heartily recommend this Craft Recording, even if (perhaps especially if) you have owned the LP version from (almost) a half century ago.
These pieces are an intellectual challenge to the listener as well as a sensual pleasure. They should send saxophonists back to the practice room.
This doesn’t sound like any other quartet I know.
These jazz albums are splendid representations of the first full decade of LPs and of stereo recording as well.
Classical Music Commentary: Boston’s Lost Opportunity — How the BSO Board Chose Charles Munch over Leonard Bernstein