Jazz
The members of the Collective seem to have an understanding that their job is to make music that reflects a group identity as well as their individual personalities.
[UPDATE: Yes, the Aardvark concert is happening!] Aardvark Jazz Orchestra turns 40, Mango Blue makes a one-night return, Evan Ziporyn plays Don Byron’s new clarinet concerto, drummer Brian Blade arrives with his Fellowship band, and much, much more.
Postmodern jazz trio The Bad Plus plays some of the prettiest Stravinsky ever performed.
No one would say that Terri Lyne Carrington’s versions of Ellington’s pieces are definitive, but they extend the legendary composer’s legacy in a personal and significant way.
Miguel Zenón and Catherine Russell digging deep into the Great Puerto Rican and African-American Songbooks, celebrations of Jimi Hendrix, Quincy Jones, and the Third Stream, and an impressive series of CD releases highlight the shortest month of the year.
Vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater’s exuberance proved contagious in this performance featuring a remarkable group of jazz all-stars under the genial direction of bassist Christian McBride.
Music with African roots warms the January chill, percussionists raise the roof, vocalist/pianist/songwriter Patricia Barber makes a welcome return, and a sextet of touring all-stars from the Monterey Jazz Festival swings through town.
We should look forward, eagerly, to hearing more lost, or previously issued music, from Jazzhaus. And be grateful to the European public for supporting these concerts and broadcasts.
The new Mingus box set from Mosaic is a treasure trove — jazz lovers should get their hands on one of the 7,500 limited edition copies.
With major clubs closing their doors for private parties, December can be a little thin for mainstream jazz. But if you like to walk on the wild side, this is your month.
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