Jazz
Arts Fuse jazz critics offer their favorite performances from the Bird.
Percussionist Syd Smart is a Boston treasure to whom we will soon have to say farewell. But his talent, spirit, and energy will remain with those fortunate enough to see him play.
A cautionary list of cliches, accumulated during a lifetime’s observation, for the next generation of jazz critics — and readers of same.
Marked by a blended mastery of multiple genres — from jazz and R&B to hip-hop — Dinner Party is a perfect album for a time of pandemic, police brutality, and an uncertain future.
Leave it to guitarist Bill Frisell — he always knows where the musical goodies are to be found.
This is not a music documentary, it’s a kind of jaunty-artsy immersion in and around the Newport Jazz festival, including scenes of the host city Newport, the America’s Cup race, festival goers, kids in playgrounds, etc.
What exactly did the Duke’s music symbolize to Russell’s shifty characters, two upwardly mobile lowlifes more anxious to fleece the world than fall in love?
“The sun and everything in this world is there waiting for us—patiently and loyally. To feel its power, we just need to make the choice to get up, go out, look up and connect to its magnificence.” That is really, truly, there in the music.
If there’s ever been a more distinctive jazz musician than Rahsaan Roland Kirk, you’ll have to prove it to me.
Jazz Commentary: Charlie Parker — The Eternal Radical at 100
I’m still not sure I heard what’s revolutionary about Charlie Parker’s recordings — they’re very old news by now. But I warm to the expressions of unique genius, a beauty that in itself is radical.
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