Adventurous jazz is not always as much fun to listen to as it is on Hero Trio, a stellar meeting of compositions, arrangements, and astute performances propelled by real passion.
Music
Rock Album Review: In Hinds Sight — “The Prettiest Curse”
Hinds’ shortcomings are readily apparent, but their infectious energy is undeniable.
Jazz Concert Review: Livestream — Billy Hart Quartet at the Village Vanguard
The exhilarating power of live music in a small club blazed forth whenever the momentum built loud and hard toward a stirring transition.
Rock Album Review: Larkin Poe’s “Self Made Man” — Bursting with Defiance and Muscle
Self Made Man is a perfect piece of music for anyone eager to push, shove, jump, and shout after months of being told to stay put.
Jazz Recording Review: “If There Are Mountains” — An Instant Classic
There’s much to admire in If There Are Mountains, modulated pathos as well as subtle joys.
Concert Review: Ticket to Park — Johnny A Plays the British Invasion Songbook at the Tupelo Drive-In
A by-the-carload ticket gets you a spot in the Tupelo Music Hall parking lot and an empty space next to it.
Arts Commentary: The Music Biz — When Difficult Becomes Dire
The advantage of localism enjoyed by a club down the block disappears in cyberspace.
Rock Review: Jade Hairpins — Cruising Down “Harmony Avenue”
In the spirit of its mischievous name, Jade Hairpins never takes itself all that seriously, and that is all to the good. Why dampen eccentricity this joyful with any reservations?
Rap Album Review: “Run the Jewels 4” — Heart, Wit, and Rage
Too many hip-hop artists stick to defined lanes, but Run the Jewels aspire to run rampant, with a growing sophistication as well as heart, wit, and rage.
Opera CD Review: Spontini’s Wacky Comic Opera, in Which Nothing Is as It Seems
Metamorfosi is a marvelously effective and amusing one-act opera that would suit college opera workshops splendidly.