Music
I admire Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s wit and daring, her singularly effective guitar playing, and the subtlety of her singing.
Some at times sentimental observations of New Orleans’s “other” massive music confab, the French Quarter Festival.
These four sets are among five new collections of previously-unreleased music that provide crisp snapshots of renowned jazz performers in the second half of the twentieth century and precious documents of great originals in their prime.
The music of Icelandic composer Anna Thorvaldsdottir embraces the elemental, and the Boston Symphony Orchestra skillfully waded into its searching mystery.
The music works. The session is among old friends. The rhythm section cooks and every solo holds one’s attention.
“Sun Ra: At the Showcase Live in Chicago, 1976 – 1977” offers a rare opportunity for us 21st century listeners to experience live sets by a distinctive musical spirit.
Saxophonist Owen Broder’s efforts to keep Johnny Hodges’ music alive is more than just mere imitation. It is a fitting tribute to a musician who deserves to be listened to more.
Cindy Lee’s “Diamond Jubilee” is nothing if not immersed in its own inner world. That’s part of its complexity, its strength, and its beauty.
This is my kind of music, a tight latin jazz outfit that embraces great horn charts and explosive percussion.
Music Commentary: New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Fest versus French Quarter Fest
Which is the best fest? It’s up for grabs.
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