Jazz
Inspired by their leader, bassist Christian McBride, the musicians in this big band always sound like they are having the times of their lives.
“Best band in the world”? Butcher Brown spends the next 40 minutes or so living up to its boast, as song after song heads off into a different direction without a stumble or misfire.
“I’m trying to get people to be at ease with the incredible amount of variety in the United States.”
There’s a larger story to tell about black composers and musicians breaking into the film and TV business, but its only lightly touched on here.
A pair of beauties: an Eric Revis quintet album and a solo excursion from Chick Corea.
A Mother Cow of jazz iconoclasts takes on German lieder, because why not?
Iridescence is a masterful set, with none of the tentative feeling …he bipped when he should have bopped …that sometimes afflicts free jazz outings.
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.
Arts Fuse jazz critics offer their favorite performances from the Bird.
Arts Commentary: Meditations on Separation
This is what I feel can add: the perspective of a native-born son of the Rochester metro; and a view from the bridge through jazz-colored glasses.
Read More about Arts Commentary: Meditations on Separation