There’s no doubt that the Japan-born composer/pianist/bandleader Satoro Fujii is one of the most prolific recording artists of her time.
Jazz
Book Review: “Irving Berlin: New York Genius” — A Significant Life
Biographer James Kaplan was aided by the assistance of Irving Berlin’s two elder daughters, and that makes this biography particularly valuable.
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.
Concert Review: Blue Note Records Celebrates its 80th at Shalin Liu — Almost Something for Everyone, and That’s Cool
All three groups in this Blue Note anniversary concert were distinctly different. One was shaded with a hip hop influence, one proffered organ trio jazz-funk and one, all female, had singing as its focal point.
Jazz CD Review: Nat King Cole Hittin’ the Ramp — The Early Years (1936-1943)
To hear Nat King Cole move from an anonymous member of a backing chorus to a world-class vocal soloist is well worth the time this boxed set demands.
Jazz Album Review: The Bad Plus’ “Activate Infinity” — Emotionally Narrow
The Bad Plus are telling stories, but the trio doesn’t seem to want to follow wherever they might lead, which narrows their music’s emotional range.
Jazz Album Review: A Confidently Rousing “La Marseillaise” from Pianist Laszlo Gardony
One of the strengths of Laszlo Gardony’s playing is his confident insistence on what he is doing, his impressive self-assurance.
Jazz Album Review: jaimie branch’s “FLY or DIE II: bird dogs of paradise” — Into the Outer Reaches
jaimie branch knows music has to be wild and dangerous and beautiful to cut through all the distractions of our times.
Jazz Album Review: “Zigsaw: Music of Steve Lampert” — A Complex Dream
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.
Jazz Review and Perspective: Stan Getz (and Everyone Else) in 1961 – “Getz at the Gate”
Saxophonist Stan Getz knew whom to listen to and whom to borrow from, and the repertoire for the 1961 Village Gate gig was particularly satisfying.
