JazzCorner InnerViews

JazzCorner.com is proud to present a new JazzCorner InnerView or our shorter feature, Jazz Perspective every week. The player should automatically begin with the latest InnerView or Perspective. To hear past InnerViews, just hit next on the player or you can scroll the list and download to your computer as a CD quality MP3 or you can subscribe through the RSS buttons.

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EPISODES:

Wayne Shorter - Blakey, ESP and Nefertiti
JazzCorner.com's Jazz Perspectives producer Reese Erlich sat down for an intimate conversation with saxophonist Wayne Shorter. In this special podcast, Shorter talks about his early years with Art Blakey and Miles Davis. He also reveals what inspired him to write his original compositions, including "ESP" and "Nefertiti." Wayne Shorter will be adjudicating and performing at the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz 2008 International Saxophone Competition and Gala on October 25 and 26 in Los Angeles. For more information, visit www.monkinstitute.org
Published: 05/04/2008 03:20 AM [top]

JD Allen - So Far "Out" He's "In"
Saxophonist JD Allen plays to the outer limits of modern jazz, often using dissonance and unusual rhythms. But he has a strong sense of melody that makes him a popular jazz artist of the younger generation. JazzCorner.com Jazz Perspectives' producer Reese Erlich met with Allen to discuss how he got started playing for Betty Carter and his latest CD "I Am, I Am."
Published: 04/09/2008 06:45 AM [top]

Lionel Loueke - Clicks His Way Into Jazz
Guitarist Lionel Loueke has established himself as a world-class sideman playing for both Terence Blanchard and Herbie Hancock. Now as a group leader, Loueke demonstrates his prodigious talents by playing guitar, singing and adding percussive clicks to his singing. JazzCorner.com's Jazz Perspectives producer Reese Erlich discovered that Loueke borrowed the rhythmic clicks from a language in South Africa, but has made them all his own.
Published: 03/26/2008 06:15 AM [top]

Ezra Weiss - Young and Talented
You probably haven't heard of Ezra Weiss - yet. The 20-something pianist plays New York and keeps busy in his home base of Portland, Oregon. Jazz Perspectives producer Reese Erlich talks with Weiss about his CD "Get Happy," which will actually get you happy. Please visit www.ezraweiss.com and his CD is available through JazzCares.com
Published: 03/15/2008 06:04 AM [top]

Eliane Elias - A Brazilian Triple Threat
Brazilian born Eliane Elias is a talented pianist, vocalist and song writer. She's currently on a national tour playing songs from her CD "Something for You," a tribute to Bill Evans. JazzCorner.com Jazz Perspectives producer Reese Erlich finds out how she got inspired to perform Bill Evans' songs, and even why she kicks off her high heels during live performances. To see Eliane Elias videos, please visit http://www.jazzvideos.net
Published: 02/25/2008 07:40 AM [top]

Jason Lindner - From Garage Band to Big Band
Pianist and composer Jason Lindner started getting jazz gigs at age 15 by barging into restaurants and offering to play for free. Today, he heads a successful trio and big band. In this JazzCorner.com Jazz Perspective, Reese Erlich features an interview with Lindner and music from his CD "Live at the Jazz Gallery."
Published: 01/26/2008 05:00 AM [top]

Avishai Cohen Brings the World to Jazz
Bassist and band leader Avishai Cohen doesn't know what to call his music. He mixes Middle Eastern influences from his native Israel with European classical, Latin and other styles to create an innovative form of jazz. In this JazzCorner.com Jazz Perspective, Reese Erlich talks with Cohen about his history in music, his International Vamp band and his latest CD: "As Is: Live at the Blue Note."
Published: 01/12/2008 01:00 PM [top]

Cyrus Chestnut plays Elvis
For those who know the incredible playing of pianist Cyrus Chestnut, it should come as no surprise that he produced a swinging and original version of tunes made popular by Elvis Presley. In this JazzCorner.com Jazz Perspective by Reese Erlich, you can hear his jazz version of Hound Dog and Heartbreak Hotel. Chestnut talks about his early musical influences and how he developed his swinging style. Music for this perspective comes from "Cyrus Plays Elvis" on Koch Records.
Published: 12/31/2007 03:48 PM [top]

Raymond De Felitta - In Search of Jackie Paris
Filmmaker and jazz musician Raymond De Felitta discovered the voice of Jackie Paris while listening to the radio. He became somewhat obsessed and his mission was to find out more about this elusive vocalist who sang with Bird, Mingus and Monk. His journey was transformed into making the documentary: 'Tis Autumn: The Search For Jackie Paris which opened in New York on December 7, 2007. JazzCorner.com's Lois Gilbert sat with De Felitta to talk about the film, Jackie Paris and how talent and commercial success are often not synonomous. For information on 'Tis Autumn: The Search For Jackie Paris, please visit: www.tisautumnthemovie.com
Published: 12/07/2007 05:00 AM [top]

Robin Eubanks - Always on the Cutting Edge
Multi-instrumentalist, composer, arranger and educator Robin Eubanks has been using electronics to augment the sonic palette of his trombone for more than 15 years. His latest project, EB3 was created for the expressed purpose of exploring modern technology in the context of his live performances, while also advancing the art of trombone in general. One of the first jazz musicians to create his own podcasts, JazzCorner.com turns the mic on Robin in this special extended JazzCorner InnerView.
Published: 11/09/2007 02:50 AM [top]

Herbie Hancock - Letting Rivers Flow
Pianist Herbie Hancock spoke with Jazzcorner.com's Jazz Perspectives host Reese Erlich to talk about his new CD River. It's based on compositions by Joni Mitchell. Hancock talks about how Mitchell's music is particularly well suited for jazz and how he struggled to understand her lyrics. The Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz All-Star Tribute to Herbie Hancock will be held at the Kodak Theater on Oct 28. Please visit www.monkinstitute.org.
Published: 10/26/2007 04:05 AM [top]

Joni Mitchell - Continues to Shine
Joni Mitchell is a favorite singer-songwriter for many jazz musicians because of her insightful poetry and story telling ability. After nearly 10 years of not producing original recordings, in September 2007, Joni Mitchell issued a new CD, Shine. In this exclusive interview with JazzCorner.com's Jazz Perspective host Reese Erlich, Mitchell talks about the strong influence jazz and blues have had on her work. Joni Mitchell will be appearing at the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz All-Star Tribute to Herbie Hancock at the Kodak Theater on Oct 28. Please visit www.monkinstitute.org.
Published: 10/20/2007 06:20 AM [top]

George Duke - Bending Jazz Genres
George Duke got his start playing piano in church. He went on to fame playing with both rock and jazz stars. In this JazzCorner.com Jazz Perspective, Reese Erlich looks at Duke's career spanning nearly 40 years. Music for the perspective comes from "Face the Music" and "The Ultimate George Duke." George Duke will be appearing at the Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz All-Star Tribute to Herbie Hancock at the Kodak Theater on Oct 28. Please visit www.monkinstitute.org.
Published: 10/13/2007 07:18 AM [top]

Kenny Werner - Striking Those Good Chords
Pianist Kenny Werner is not only a fine musician but an insightful observer of the jazz scene. In this JazzCorner.com Jazz Perspective by Reese Erlich, Werner talks about his life growing up in Long Island, NY, and about the importance of maintaining improvisation and individualism in jazz. Werner plays the Beantown Jazz Festival on September 28. Please visit www.beantownjazz.org for more information.
Published: 09/27/2007 03:42 AM [top]

Claudia Acuna - A NY Success Story
Vocalist Claudia Acuna grew up in a working class district of Santiago, Chile. She became a jazz singer there and eventually moved to New York, where she had to start all over again. In this Jazzcorner.com Jazz Perspective by Reese Erlich, Acuna tells of her big break at the Blue Note and how she composes some of her fine tunes. Acuna is one of the headliners at the 2007 Beantown Jazz Festival on September 28 and 29, 2007 in Boston. Please visit www.beantownjazz.org for more information.
Published: 09/21/2007 03:08 AM [top]

Joe Zawinul - In Memory
Legendary pianist Joe Zawinul passed away Sept. 11 in Vienna at the age of 75. As a young man he came to New York and quickly became known for an innovative style and fusing jazz with other forms of popular music. He played with Miles Davis on Bitch's Brew and went on to found the fusion band Weather Report with Wayne Shorter. In memory of Zawinul, JazzCorner presents this Jazz Perspective produced by Reese Erlich.
Published: 09/12/2007 04:46 AM [top]

Kurt Elling - Pushing the Jazz Vocal Envelope
Considered one of the foremost contemporary voices and vocal interpreters in jazz; in this extended JazzCorner.com Innerview, Kurt Elling discusses everything from his latest recording, "Nightmoves", his eclectic choices of music, writing, family, philosophy, spirituality and so much more. Kurt is appearing at both the Tanglewood and the Detroit Jazz Festivals during Labor Day Weekend 2007.
Published: 09/05/2007 01:18 AM [top]

Regina Carter - Detroit's Own Heroine
Detroit born and raised, violinist Regina Carter is the first Artist-In-Residence in the 28 year history of the Detroit Jazz Festival. In this Jazz Perspective produced by Reese Erlich, Carter discusses her early ability to play by ear and also the difficulties facing women jazz performers.
Published: 09/01/2007 04:30 PM [top]

Maria Schneider - The Sky's The Limit
On Maria Schneider's latest CD, Sky Blue, Schneider weaves melodic and lush stories, childhood memories, bird watching in Central Park and a visit to South America. In this the extended length JazzCorner.com InnerView with producer Lois Gilbert, Maria explains how she composes, displays her talent on various bird whistles and speaks eloquently on her latest ArtistShare project, Sky Blue. The Maria Schneider Orchestra will be appearing at the Tangelwood Jazz Festival on September 2, 2007.
Published: 08/25/2007 07:50 PM [top]

Dave Brubeck - An Evolving Genius
Pianist Brubeck helped define the "cool jazz" sound during the 1950s. Brubeck and his quartet showed that you could swing with a more mellow, cooler sound in California. Brubeck is best known for his hits "Take Five" and "Blue Rondo a la Turk," innovative tunes that were both melodically pleasing and very hard to play because of their unusual meters. In this Jazz Perspective by host Reese Erlich, we hear Brubeck talk about those early years and about his formative days as an Army musician during World War II.
Published: 08/23/2007 07:50 PM [top]

Joe Sample - Still Crusading
Pianist Joe Sample is best known for his years with the seminal group the Jazz Crusaders. He wrote and performed a number of pop mega-hits as well, such as "Street Life." In this Jazz Perspective, Sample talks about some of the history behind the Jazz Crusaders as well as his latest CD, "Feeling Good," reuniting him with vocalist Randy Crawford. See Joe Sample with Randy Crawford at the Tanglewood Jazz Festival on September 1, 2007.
Published: 08/16/2007 07:50 AM [top]

Oscar Hernandez - Goes Latin With Paul Simon
Oscar Hernandez' Spanish Harlem Orchestra as had a string of successful CDs playing the brassy, urban salsa of the 1950s and 60s. In this Jazz Perspective produced by Reese Erlich, Hernandez explains the important cultural role played by Spanish Harlem over the years. He also talks about how he got Paul Simon to make a guest vocal appearance on his 2007 CD United We Swing. The Spanish Harlem Orchestra will be performing at the Detroit Jazz Festial.
Published: 08/13/2007 07:50 AM [top]

Sachal Vasandani - Infusing The Familiar With The Fresh
Sachal Vasandani's MACK AVENUE debut release, Eyes Wide Open, showcases this uniquely gifted vocalist and songwriter who combines skillful, diverse writing with a flair for infusing the familiar with the fresh. Critics describe him as "the finest young talent on the scene" possessing a stunning and moving voice. In addition, Vasandani's live performances have generated appreciation and praise from peers worldwide. In this special long length JazzCorner.com InnerView, Sachal talks about everything from politics to lost love with producer Lois Gilbert. Sachal will be appearing at both the www.tanglewoodjazzfest.com and www.detroitjazzfest.com
Published: 08/04/2007 06:50 AM [top]

Bobby Sanabria - Keeping the Latin Big Band Alive
Percussionist, composer and bandleader Bobby Sanabria has a mission. He keeps alive the tradition of Latin big bands and updates the music to the 21st century. In his new CD "Big Band Urban Folktales," Sanabria brings us mambos, boleros, and even some Frank Zappa with that unmistakable Latin big band sound.
Published: 07/29/2007 08:59 PM [top]

Mark Weinstein - Fusing Flute and Philosophy
Mark Weinstein was an early pioneer in fusing avant garde jazz with Latin music. He took some time off from playing music professionally to become a philosophy professor. But since the mid 1990s, he's recorded some dynamite Latin and jazz and world music.
Published: 07/22/2007 03:09 PM [top]

George Wein - From pianist to Impresario
George Wein is a talented musician who became even better known as a jazz impresario. Wein founded the Newport, Playboy, JVC and New Orleans Jazz Festivals, among others. Reese Erlich caught up with Wein during the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival to ask him about the changing world of jazz.
Published: 07/04/2007 08:01 AM [top]

Mark Levine - The Latin Tinge
As a young pianist, Mark Levine got his start playing strip joints in Boston, adding that special bada bing to his jazz and blues repertoire. These days he focuses on Latin music, having produced five successful CDs with his group the Latin Tinge.
Published: 06/06/2007 06:41 AM [top]

Ben Allison - Outside Music That Takes You In
When you hear the words avant garde jazz, you think of discordant notes and strange harmonies. But bass player Ben Allison has managed to create a style of jazz that combines accessible rhythms and melodies, with the "outside" sounds associated with the avant garde. Allison is one of New York's outstanding younger generation of jazz artists not content to play grandpa's jazz.
Published: 05/28/2007 06:41 AM [top]

Frank Wess - Big Band to BeBop
Frank Wess became famous playing with the Count Basie Band in the 1950s. His incredible career spans both the big band and bebop eras. In this Jazz Perspective, Wess tells Reese Erlich that he really didn't have any problems playing bebop - except the drumming was so different. "Art Blakey was dropping those bombs," he said with a laugh. This Jazz Perspective includes Wess' playing from the Count Basie days as well as his CD Hank and Frank.
Published: 05/10/2007 05:21 AM [top]

Gerald Wilson - Still Swingin' at 89
Big band leader, trumpeter and composer Gerald Wilson has been a jazz treasure for more than 6 decades, and maintains a busy schedule to this day. JazzCorner's Lois Gilbert spent several hours with Gerald on his 89th birthday during the Detroit Jazz Festival. This very special JazzCorner.com InnerView is brought to you by Mack Avenue Records. www.mackavenue.com
Published: 04/22/2007 12:55 AM [top]

Jon Faddis - Hitting Those High Notes
As a teenager, Trumpeter Jon Faddis impressed his friends by playing the Star Spangled Banner one octave higher than usual. He brought that talent to the world of jazz and is still hitting those incredible high notes 40 years later. In this Jazz Perspective, Reese Erlich talks with Faddis about his CD "Teranga." It includes original jazz compositions that combine the talents of American and Senegalese musicians.
Published: 04/08/2007 11:55 AM [top]

Tia Fuller - Embrace The Journey
Saxophonist, flutist and composer Tia Fuller truly believes that music can serve as the perfect elixir, hence the title of her Mack Avenue debut, "Healing Space," which includes her longtime friend and musical collaborator Sean Jones and labelmate, Ron Blake. Conceived during a time of personal turmoil and transition, Tia elaborates on purpose, gratitude, transgression, reflection, wholeness and restoration. For more information on Tia, please visit www.mackavenue.com
Published: 03/24/2007 03:55 AM [top]

Jason Moran - Brings Youthful Energy to Jazz
Pianist Jason Moran, in his early 30s, has already made his mark in the jazz world. As you can hear in this JazzCorner InnerView by Reese Erlich, Moran can play a downhome, funky blues or create avant garde new music. His CD "Artist in Residence" consists of various commissioned works he has performed over the past few years. It includes jazz fused with hip-hop and an original composition that's part jazz and part classical. Quite a mix.
Published: 03/12/2007 05:45 AM [top]

Hot Club of Detroit - Django meets Detroit
Back in 1930s Paris, the Hot Club de France kept music fans jumping and dance floors filled to their intricate and lively brand of gypsy jazz.In 21st century Detroit, the fans are jumpin' and the dance floors are filled, too, but this time to the sound of the Hot Club of Detroit, an electrifying and visionary ensemble that takes the traditions pioneered by Django Reinhardt and company and spins them in a way that's both reverent and refreshingly contemporary. For more info visit: www.mackave.com
Published: 02/03/2007 04:29 AM [top]

Roberta Gamberini - From Turin to Scat
Vocalist Roberta Gamberini is finally getting the recognition she deserves with her CD "Easy to Love" receiving a 2007 Grammy nomination for best female jazz vocalist. Gamberini learned to sing jazz as a youngster in Turin, Italy, and later moved to New York. She regularly performs with Roy Hargrove and adds a special zing with her innovative scatting. In this Jazz Perspective, Gamberini tells host Reese Erlich about growing up in Italy, discrimination facing women performers and how she hits those wonderful high notes.
Published: 01/30/2007 01:10 AM [top]

Oscar Castro-Neves - Bossa to BeBop, Film to Fusion
Only a handful of musicians reflect a lifetime of accomplishments as diverse and rich as those of Oscar Castro-Neves. He is renowned for his distinctive guitar style, for the exquisite texture of his orchestrations, and as both a composer/arranger of sophisticated harmonic concepts and an accomplished record producer. He is also one of the founders of the musical movement known worldwide as bossa nova. Music comes from Oscar's "Playful Heart," "All One," Bahia Girls, Gal Costa, Yo Yo Ma's "Obrigado Brasil", Paul Winter, Bossa Nova at Carnegie Hall. For more info visit mackaverecords.com
Published: 01/08/2007 11:10 PM [top]

Woody Shaw - Musician of the Highest Calibre
Trumpeter Woody Herman Shaw successfully weaved together superb technique, a confident and purposeful approach, and a sensitivity filled with raw emotion and gut-wrenching passion into his own individual sound which impacted on the veterans of jazz and continues to be one of the greatest influences to all musicians. This special Jazzcorner InnerView was done in 1979 by Lois Gilbert and includes music from Woody Shaw, Horace Silver and Larry Young. We remember Woody Shaw who was born on December 24, 1944 and tragically died on May 10, 1989. For more info visit woodyshaw.com
Published: 12/23/2006 10:10 PM [top]

Sean Jones - His Roots and His Journey
Trumpeter Sean Jones is an innovator and educator, but above all he is a believer in the power and soul of music, specifically jazz. Sean sat down with InnerViews' producer Lois Gilbert during the Detroit Jazz Festival in 2006 for this extended length InnerView. Music is from Sean Jones' "Roots", "Eternal Journey", and "Gemini" as well as Gerald Wilson's "In My Time" all from Mack Ave. Records.
Published: 12/05/2006 02:10 AM [top]

Dee Dee Bridgewater In Mali
Vocalist Dee Dee Bridgewater has started a new project, working with incredibly talented musicians from Mali. Bridgewater fuses jazz and blues with Malian music. Reese Erlich spent time with Bridgewater in Male as she recorded her forthcoming CD.
Published: 11/23/2006 01:01 AM [top]

Maraca Valle - Bold and Sassy
Flutist and band leader Orlando "Maraca" Valle combines the charged energy of Cuban popular music with a fine jazz sensibility. He played in Chucho Valdes famous group Irakere for six years and has had his own group Otra Vision (Other Vision) since the early 1990s. While a lot of his music sounds like fast-paced salsa, listen carefully. He incorporates elements of hip-hop, jazz and blues into his playing. Music for this Jazz Perspective by Reese Erlich comes from Maraca's CD "Soy Yo" (It's Me) on Ahinama Records.
Published: 11/10/2006 03:37 PM [top]

Salif Keita - Exploring the Origins of Blues and Jazz
Salif Keita's haunting and mesmerizing voice evokes deep emotion from fans in the US and around the world. He has become Mali's greatest singer/song writer. The ancient music of Mali contains elements of modern day blues and jazz. Reese Erlich traveled to Bamako, Mali, to learn more about Keita's wonderful music. This Jazz Perspective features music from Keita's 2006 CD M'Bemba.
Published: 10/30/2006 03:37 AM [top]

Keith Jarrett - Talks About The Carnegie Hall Concert
One of the most diverse of all Keith Jarrett's performances, "The Carnegie Hall Concert" almost amounts to an autobiographical portrait of the great improviser. Each of his two sets takes the form of a suite of songs, some intensely lyrical, others angular, turbulent, or probing. and the encores - no less than five of them - touch upon the blues and boogie-woogie, upon standards, and a new rendering of "My song." In this special Jazzcorner.com Innerview, Jarrett talks about the preparation, the intensity and the dynamics of "The Carnegie Hall Concert." all music comes from this double CD on ECM records.
Published: 10/21/2006 02:37 AM [top]

Tomasz Stanko - Creative Force From Krakow
Trumpeter Tomasz Stanko has had a successful career in Poland and Europe for over 40 years. But he's come to the attention of US audiences only in the past few years. If you haven't heard of the talented musician and composer, listen up. Stanko has a signature grainy tone that creates a reflective and soulful sound. In this Jazz Perspective by Reese Erlich, Stanko talks about his life and most recent CD "Lontano" on ECM records.
Published: 10/14/2006 04:00 AM [top]

The Blues - Malian Style
Some musicians say that the blues were born in the west African country of Mali. Slaves from there were brought to the US, where elements of their music provide the roots for what we know today as the blues. Reese Erlich traveled to Mali to meet with these original "blues" musicians, some of whom are from the Kel Tamashek (aka Tuareg) ethnic group in northern Mali. Music for this perspective comes from original recordings and from the CD Abacabok by the group Tartit.
Published: 10/07/2006 02:43 PM [top]

Dave Holland - From Ukulele to Stardom
Dave Holland has had a spectacular career as a jazz bassist and composer. Born in Britain, he first came to the US to play with Miles Davis in 1968. He's played straight ahead with Stan Getz, avant garde with Sam Rivers and headed his own groups for over 20 years now. In this Jazz Perspective Reese Erlich talks with Holland about his career and his latest CD "Critical Mass."
Published: 09/30/2006 12:43 AM [top]

Jazz Enhances When the Levees Broke
In part one of this special Jazz Perspective look at film scoring, Spike Lee and Terence Blanchard explained how they developed the music for the documentary "When the Levees Broke." In this segment Reese Erlich looks at how musicians rarely get to play full compositions during a film, but when they do, watch out!
Published: 09/22/2006 11:43 AM [top]

Writing a Film Score: Harder Than It Sounds
Composing music for a film is far different than preparing a score for live performance. Movie music must always serve the film. Composers may have only 10 or 20 seconds to strike a chord and highlight a dramatic moment. Reese Erlich found out just how complicated film scoring can be when he spent a few days in New Orleans with director Spike Lee and composer Terence Blanchard as they prepared a new documentary called "When the Levees Broke." He offers this special 15 minute Jazz Perspective, the first of two parts.
Published: 09/16/2006 01:35 AM [top]

John Pizzarelli-Master of the American Song Book
Guitarist and vocalist John Pizzarelli comes from a very musical family. His dad, Bucky, is a well-respected jazz guitarist; his brother and wife sometimes play in John's band. John has developed a successful career performing the great American Song Book, the jazz standards so appreciated around the world. In this Jazz Perspective by Reese Erlich, Pizzarelli talks about why he plays the special, 7-string guitar and his latest CD: "Dear Mr. Sinatra."
Published: 09/09/2006 02:35 AM [top]

Terence Blanchard and Spike Lee Team Up Again
Jazz trumpeter Terence Blanchard has composed the scores for all of Spike Lee's recent films. But his work on Lee's 4-hour documentary "When the Levees Broke: A Requiem in Four Acts" is special. The film chronicles the Hurricane Katrina disaster in Blanchard's home town of New Orleans. It airs on HBO this month, with all 4 acts air on August 29, the first anniversary of Katrina. Reese Erlich went to New Orleans and interviewed Blanchard and Lee during the recording sessions. In this Jazz Perspective, we hear original music from the soundtrack as well tunes from Blanchard's 2005 Blue Note CD "Flow." This Jazz Perspective is brought to you in part by the Detroit Jazz Festival, Sept. 1-4, 2006 -- America's end of summer jazz ritual.
Published: 08/27/2006 12:35 AM [top]

Gonzalo Rubalcaba - New Voyages
When Jazz Perspective producer Reese Erlich first heard Gonzalo Rubalcaba, the pianist was still playing the fiery rhythms of his native Cuba. Over the years, Rubalcaba has focused more on straight ahead jazz, with touches of picante style. Erlich hung out with Rubalcaba before and during his performance at this year's Montreal Jazz Festival where they spoke about the impact of Rubalcaba's many voyages.This Jazz Perspective is brought to you in part by the Detroit Jazz Festival, Sept. 1-4, 2006 -- America's end of summer jazz ritual.
Published: 08/20/2006 12:35 AM [top]

Stefon Harris - Bringing New Sounds to Jazz
Vibist Stefon Harris brings popular music of the 1980s and 90s into jazz - from funk to hip hop. That fusion may not please jazz purists. But, as Harris pointed out during an interview at the Montreal Jazz Festival, real jazz traditionalists have always incorporated current musical styles into jazz. That keeps younger listeners interested in jazz, and brings new sounds to the older generation. Harris' band Blackout opens up new and exciting directions. Music for this Jazz Perspective comes from Harris CDs "Evolution" and "Black Action Figure." This Jazz Perspective is brought to you in part by the Detroit Jazz Festival, Sept. 1-4, 2006 -- America's end of summer jazz ritual.
Published: 08/11/2006 03:35 AM [top]

David Sanchez - Always an Adventure
David Sanchez got his start playing Latin and straight ahead jazz. And he's always had an adventuresome streak. Jazz Perspectives' host Reese Erlich met up with Sanchez at the Montreal Jazz Festival, where Sanchez was special guest for pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba. Sanchez talks about his last CD as a leader, "Coral," performed with a symphony orchestra in Prague. And you'll hear some sizzling sounds from Sanchez' collaboration with Eddie Palmieri from the CD "Listen Here." This Jazz Perspective is brought to you in part by the Detroit Jazz Festival, Sept. 1-4, 2006 -- America's end of summer jazz ritual.
Published: 08/11/2006 06:25 PM [top]

Robert Glasper - Keyed In
Pianist and composer Robert Glasper successfully combines the legacy of jazz with hip-hop, soul, pop, rock and gospel influences and elements. It isn't as evident on his Blue Note release, but you can hear it in live performances, as perhaps will be in evidence when he makes his performing debut at Litchfield Jazz Festival. His core and center thought, is as a jazz musician. His personality is much like his musicianship -- engaging, funny, spontaneous, emotional, and acknowledging his past while keyed into the present and armed for the future. Music for this extensive innerview with Robert Glasper comes from Robert Glasper's "Canvas" and "The Blue Note Jazz Series", Oscar Peterson's "Encore at the Blue Note" and John Coltrane's "A Love Supreme."
Published: 08/09/2006 08:25 AM [top]

Matt Wilson - Drummer for All Ages
Matt Wilson loves playing drums, and he's one of the most diverse drummers on the scene today: working with just about everyone from Charlie Haden's Liberation Orchestra, Carla Bley's band, Dewey Redman, The Herbie Nichols Project, Ben Allison, Fred Hersch, Lee Konitz and Dena DeRose to name a few. He's a vocalist's dream drummer since he approaches each tune as if he wrote the melody and lyrics himself. On this Jazzcorner.com Innerview, Matt talks about his upcoming performance at the Litchfield Jazz Festival with both Dena DeRose and Lee Konitz, as well as a great deal more. As you'll hear, Matt is gracious, funny and not microphone shy! Music comes from Matt's "Wake Up!" and "Going Once, Going Twice", Lee Konitz's "Strings for Holiday", a Lee Konitz live set at Birdland in New York City and Dena DeRose's "Love's Holiday".
Published: 08/02/2006 03:11 AM [top]

Pat Martino - Guitar Improv Genius
Pat Martino is a jazz guitar legend. At age 15 he moved from his native Philadelphia to Harlem, quite a jump for a white teenager in 1959. He honed his skills playing with the likes of Jimmy Smith and Jack McDuff. Wes Montgomery was one of his mentors. In 1979, Martino was diagnosed with a brain aneurysm and almost died. He had total amnesia and had to stop playing. But since 1995, he's been back full force. Reese Erlich met Martino at the Montreal Jazz Festival and this Jazz Perspective consists of their conversation. Music for this Jazz Perspective comes from the 2006 CD "Remember: A Tribute to Wes Montgomery" on Blue Note records. This Jazz Perspective is brought to you in part by the Detroit Jazz Festival, Sept. 1-4, 2006 -- America's end of summer jazz ritual.
Published: 07/29/2006 02:11 AM [top]

Bill Charlap and Renee Rosnes - Duo Piano
Pianists Renee Rosnes and Bill Charlap are coming together to perform as a duo for the Litchfield Jazz Festival in Goshen, Connecticut on August 6, 2006. This is a first in the 11 years of the festival, but not the first time Renee and Bill have played together as a duo. In the Jazz innerview, Bill and Renee talking about performing together on two pianos. Music is from Bill Charlap's "Stardust" and Renee Rosnes' "A Time For Love." Hopefully, in the not-so-distant future, they'll be recording together.
Published: 07/22/2006 07:30 PM [top]

Why Can't U.S. Music Fans Hear Cuban Musicians Live?
While the rest of the world can attend performances by Cuban jazz artists -- people in the US cannot. For a brief time in the late 1990s, Cuban musicians played regularly in the US. But that ended as the Bush Administration tightened the trade embargo of Cuba. These days Americans must travel abroad to hear their favorite Cuban artists live. In this special Jazz Perspective, Reese Erlich takes you to the Barbados Jazz Festival to hear some great Cuban music and see how US policy impacts the musicians. The podcast includes music by: Chucho Valdes, Buena Vista Social Club, and Pablo Mendez' Mezcla.
Published: 12/31/1969 07:00 PM [top]

Pee Wee Ellis - Combines the Best of Funk and Jazz
Saxophonist Pee Wee Ellis performed in James Brown's band in the 1960s. You can hear the blues-funk-soul sound in his jazz. Reese Erlich interviewed Ellis near his home in Bath, England. Ellis talks about the intersection of funk and jazz, and why he's chosen to live in Britain rather than the USA. Pee Wee Ellis' latest CD "Different Rooms," is available on Skip Records in Hamburg, Germany.
Published: 12/31/1969 07:00 PM [top]

Bennie Maupin - Creating His Own Musical Path
Multi-instrumentalist Bennie Maupin has a distinguished jazz pedigree. He has performed and recorded with greats such as Roy Haynes, Herbie Hancock (on the Headhunters albums) and Miles Davis (Bitches Brew). But he's always created his own musical direction. In the 2006 CD "Penumbra," Maupin plans piano, sax, flute and bass clarinet. He creates some memorable and haunting tunes. On this Jazz Perspective by Reese Erlich, you'll hear "One for Eric Dolphy," "Penumbra," and "Equal Justice." Penumbra is available on Crypto Gramophone Records
Published: 12/31/1969 07:00 PM [top]

Horace Silver - Perhaps one of America's Greatest Composers
In 1979, Lois Gilbert had the pleasure of sitting down with Horace Silver for several hours, and Horace began to tell his story. This lengthy Jazz Master conversation was originally broadcast on WRVR, New York. It ends in 1979, but hopefully, we'll have a chance to catch up with him again soon. It is fitting on this Father's Day weekend, that we pay heard the words and the creator of "Song For My Father."
Published: 12/31/1969 07:00 PM [top]

Mimi Fox - Innovative and Elegant
Mimi Fox brings a flair to her guitar playing not often seen in the world of jazz. She studied classical guitar for years and also plays drums. So she brings those components into her innovative and elegant style. In her new recording Perpetually Hip (Favored Nation Records), one CD consists of small combo renditions of original compositions, while a second CD is her solo performances of standards. I particularly liked her version of "Caravan," which as Fox explains on this Jazz Perspective, really takes you on an unusual journey.
Published: 12/31/1969 07:00 PM [top]

Larry Vuckovich - Creates Great Jazz From Old Movies
The "Street Scene," played in numerous old Hollywood movies, is a song that perfectly captures the alienation and isolation of the big American city. But Reese Erlich never remembered the name of it until Larry Vuckovich sat down at the Erlich family piano to play it during this Jazz Perspectives interview. Vuckovich has put together a dynamite CD, called "Street Scene" (Tetrachord Music) that features jazz arrangements of classic movie themes along with some original tunes. My Erlich's favorites include "Street Scene" and Vuckovich's mambo version of "As Time Goes By" from Casablanca. If anyone asked Sam to play it again, however, Rick wouldn't recognize the rhythm. Both those tunes can be heard on this Jazz Perspective.
Published: 12/31/1969 07:00 PM [top]

Omar Sosa - A Musical Traveling Man
Cuban-born pianist Omar Sosa takes inspiration from his many homelands. He's lived in Ecuador, California and Spain. He's absorbed the musical culture from each. He has explored Afro-Ecuadorian music, the musical traditions of North Africa and, in his latest gigs, teams up with saxophonist Pee Wee Ellis to create some Cuban, North African, funky-jazz. Great stuff! Music for this Jazz Perspective comes from Sosa's CD "Mulatos" on Ota Records and from a live recording of Sosa and Ellis in concert.
Published: 05/20/2006 02:12 AM [top]

Roy Hargrove - He's Come A Long Way
Reese Erlich had the opportunity to interview the great trumpeter Roy Hargrove while he was performing at the Barbados Jazz Festival. They were sitting inside the Old Plantation House, a 19th century preserved building, with birds chirping in the background. Now an international headliner, Hargrove has come a long way from his youth in Waco, Texas. Hargrove talks about his early influences and offers some surprising opinions about smooth jazz. This Jazz Perspective features music from his CD Nothing Serious (Verve), including some of his fine original compositions.
Published: 05/13/2006 02:12 AM [top]

Monty Alexander-Combining the Best of Jazz and Caribbean Flavors
Monty Alexander developed a successful career as a pop pianist and straight ahead jazz artist. But over the past few years, he has gotten more in touch with his Jamaican roots. His last few CDs feature wonderful fusions of jazz with reggae and calypso. In this new and longer version of Jazz Perspectives, you'll hear music from his new CD Concrete Jungle (The Music of Bob Marley) and Rock Steady.
Published: 05/05/2006 10:37 PM [top]

El Negro Hernandez brings Cuban rhythms to NY
When we think of a Cuban rhythm section, we often think of the percussive pianist or the conga player. Horacio El Negro Hernandez grew up in Cuba playing drums. So he played Latin music, but also funk and jazz. He took that talent on the road with pianist Gonzalo Rubalcaba for 10 years until he struck out to form his own groups. In this Jazz Perspective, Hernandez talks about the impact living in New York has had on his jazz. Music for this Perspective comes from his CD Robby and Negro at The Third World War, on American Clave Music.
Published: 04/22/2006 04:37 AM [top]

Ron Carter - Keeps Plucking That Bass
Ron Carter keeps on plucking that bass - In person Ron Carter is quiet, self-effacing, and he laughs easily. You can't say that about too many jazz legends. Carter began his New York career playing with Chico Hamilton in 1959 but burst onto the national scene when he joined Miles Davis in 1963. He's led his own groups for many years and is one of the most famous bassists around. Still, I don't think he gets enough credit as a fine jazz composer. In this Jazz Perspective we hear two of his original tunes (Parade, Quick Sketch). Blue Note will be issuing a CD later this year with Carter's group performing their interpretation of tunes made famous by Miles Davis.
Published: 04/16/2006 05:37 AM [top]

Tierney Sutton - Talented Singer and Funny Lady
Tierney Sutton - Talented Singer and Funny Lady - Tierney Sutton got her start as a singing cocktail waitress during college summer breaks. One night she walked across the street from the resort hotel where she worked and heard a jazz trio. That changed her life. She gave up tired Broadway tunes and turned to jazz. Sutton has a highly successful recording career (Telarc Records), but you don't get a full sense of her abilities until you hear her live. Among other things, she has a very wicked sense of humor. She doesn't tell jokes; she responds with rapier wit to changing situations on stage.
Published: 04/09/2006 02:15 AM [top]

Clark Terry - A Full Life Of Jazz
Clark Terry, who was born in 1920, is one of the elite group of jazz artists still alive who played with both Duke Ellington and Count Basie. In this Jazz Perspective he doesn't take sides, saying one was better. Count Basie was the master of timing, says Terry, Ellington was the master musician. Clark Terry is slowing down these days but still tours regularly, plays the trumpet upside down and performs his "mumbles" scat singing routine. Clark Terry is a true jazz treasure.
Published: 04/02/2006 06:16 AM [top]

Paul Motian - The Beat Never Stops
2006 marks Paul Motian's 75th birthday. New York drummer Paul Motian, who was born March 25, 1931, got his start during the early bebop era. He still remembers the joy of being a last minute sub and playing with Thelonious Monk. In this Jazz Perspective Motian talks about his classic recordings with Bill Evans and Scott LeFaro, as well as his most recent recordings. Happy 75th Birthday to Paul Motian! Music comes from Waltz for Debby, Riverside Records (Fantasy), The Room Above Her(ECM), and Garden of Eden(ECM).
Published: 03/25/2006 12:16 PM [top]

Arthur Blythe
Arthur Blythe - From avant garde to straight ahead - In the musically and politically radical 1960s, musicians in LA and New York created an exciting, avant garde style of jazz. Saxophonist Arthur Blythe was one of its finest exponents, creating great music with Horace Tapscott, among others. Blythe later returned to a straight ahead style. But he's still known for unusual harmonies and instrumentation. In this Jazz Perspective, for example, he explains why he includes the tuba in some of his recordings. Arthur Blythe is a real jazz treasure.
Published: 03/19/2006 11:44 AM [top]

Carla Bley
Carla Bley - During live performances, Carla Bley appears unassuming and offers up an off-beat sense of humor. Her low-key persona belies the important role she's played as a jazz composer for the past 40 years. In this Jazz Perspective Bley explains how she composed "The National Anthem." It sounds nothing like the "Star Spangled Banner" until about five minutes into the tune. Then we hear the end of the national anthem. Later we hear the beginning. She didn't write the piece as a protest song, but since Sept. 11, she performs it as a wry comment on the destructive path of the US government. "The National Anthem" appears on Bley's CD 'Looking for America'. Other music for this Perspective comes from the CD, '4 x 4.' Both CDs are on ECM Records.
Published: 03/13/2006 04:18 AM [top]

Joe Zawinul
Joe Zawinul is legendary among jazz fans for his innovative and unusual music. The Austrian-born pianist and composer paid his dues playing with the likes of Cannonball Adderley and Dinah Washington. He became world famous for his collaborations with Miles Davis on the albums "In a Silent Way", (Zawinul wrote the title tune) and "Bitches Brew". Zawinul, always restless, moved on to co-found Weather Report with saxophonist Wayne Shorter. These days Zawinul continues his musical searching, combining elements of jazz, central European folk music and rock into an incomparable mixture.Music for this Jazz Perspective comes from Zawinul's CD "Vienna Nights" on Birdjam Records.
Published: 03/03/2006 02:19 AM [top]

A Musical Tribute to Ray Barretto
The great jazz conguero Ray Barretto passed away Feb. 17. Before Barretto, the conga drum was used in Latin bands and to spice up jazz groups. But Barretto was one of the first to insist that the conga is a legitimate straight ahead jazz instrument. He produced over 50 years of fine Latin and jazz music. I was privileged to interview Ray shortly before his passing. Music from this Jazz Perspective comes from his CD Time Was - Time Is. He had one more CD in production with Zoho Records, which should be released later this year.
Published: 02/27/2006 11:19 AM [top]

Dianne Reeves - The Singer's Singer
Vocalist Dianne Reeves is one of the great jazz divas of our time. Her voice can make you jump or make you cry. She delivers a lyric with a riveting concentration that shakes your soul. Her smooth integration of jazz, soul and pop makes the singing sound easy. In this Jazz Perspective, you'll hear some of her great soul-tinged vocals from the CD The "Calling". Then in her latest effort, she appeared as the jazz diva in the film Good Night and Good Luck. In addition to being a fine film, the jazz sound track is outstanding.
Published: 02/26/2006 11:21 AM [top]

McCoy Tyner - A Bandleader with many hats
Reese Erlich had the honor of interviewing McCoy Tyner several times over the years. In addition to being one of the world's finest jazz musicians, he's a warm and truly friendly human being. Tyner became famous in the 1960s as the pianist for John Coltrane. In recent years he has led numerous bands. In this Jazz Perspective he talks about his straight ahead combos, Latin jazz group and his big band. He explains how he composes music for the different groups, how he wears different hats for different kinds of music. And through it all, he's remained a really great human being.
Published: 02/24/2006 11:25 AM [top]