“IN A MELLOW TONE”
August 4 Listen Before You Buy: The cream of the crop of recent jazz and blues releases, by Willie Buck, Corey Christiansen, Drumheller, Curtis Fuller, Gordon Grdina, Mark Lomax, Thomas Marriott, Jamie Ousley, Monica Ramey, Scenes,
John Skillman, Speak, Sultans of String, Ray Vega, Carrie Wicks and Yotam.
August 11 Pianorama: The piano stylings of Beegie Adair, Antonio Adolfo,
Ran Blake, Salvatore Bonafede, Hal Galper, Keith Jarrett, Russ Kassoff,
Andrew Oliver, Michael Jefry Stevens and Trichotomy.
August 18 Guelph Jazz Festival: A preview of the artists who will be appearing at the Guelph Jazz Festival between September 8 and September 12. The schedule includes: Muhal Richard Abrams, Jim Black, Jane Bunnett, Taylor Ho Bynum,
the Chicago Underground Duo, Sylvie Courvoisier, Marilyn Crispell, Andrew Cyrille, Mark Feldman, Henry Grimes, Marilyn Lerner, George Lewis, Charles Lloyd,
Roscoe Mitchell, Pauline Oliveros, the Ratchet Orchestra, Marc Ribot & Chad Taylor.
August 25 Sax Appeal: A flurry of saxophones with Dave Anderson,
Tobias Delius, Paul Dunmall, Peter Epstein, David Liebman, James Moody,
Ken Peplowski, Odean Pope, Tineke Postma, Peter van Bergen, Paul van Kemenade,
The Wellstone Conspiracy and Michael Zilber.
September 1 Listen Before You Buy: Recent jazz and blues releases by
Dave Anderson,Andy Cohen, Grady Champion, Chris Colangelo, Les Copeland,
Gordon Grdina, Hilary Kole, Chris Massey, Makoto Ozone, Dave Peck, Adam Schroeder, Rob Stone, Way Out West, Dave Wilson, Phil Wilson & Tim Woods.
September 8 Guest Host: TBA
September 15 Europe Calling: Recent releases recorded in Europe by Michiel Braam, Joost Buis, Mark Charig, Elastic Jargon, Roberto Magris, Grid Mesh,
Nico Huijbregts, I Compani, ICP Orchestra, Alexey Lapin, Evan Parker, Kate Westbrook and Mike Westbrook.
September 22 Mingus in Amsterdam: The April 10, 1964 concert with Johnny Coles [trumpet], Eric Dolphy [alto sax, flute and bass clarinet], Clifford Jordan [tenor sax], Jaki Byard [piano] and Dannie Richmond [drums].
September 29 Commitment: The 1981-1983 recordings of the pioneering group Commitment with Will Connell Jr. [flutes, alto sax, bass clarinet], Jason Kao Hwang
[violin, viola & bird calls], William Parker [bass] and Zen Matsuura [drums].
“In A Mellow Tone” is on CKCU every Wednesday from 9:00 to 11:00pm at 93.1FM in Ottawa, and around the world on the Internet at: http://www.ckcufm.com/audio.html
For playlists for each program and monthly schedules check: http://www.inamellowtone.com
___________________________________________________________
July 29, 2010
July 23, 2010
PLAYLIST for JULY 28, 2010
ALBERT AYLER: His famous concert of July 27, 1970 [forty years ago yesterday] at the Fondation Maeght in St. Paul de Vence, France, with Mary Maria Parks, Call Cobbs,
Steve Tintweiss and Allen Blairman.
We’ll also sample upcoming concerts by the Souljazz Orchestra
[July 30 at Le Petit Chicago], pianist Gene DiNovi [August 3 at St. Brigid’s]
and saxophonist Alex Dean [August 12 at the Carleton University Jazz Camp].
Artist: Albert Ayler
Album: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght 1970
Tune: In Heart Only
Label: Lonehill Jazz
Artist: Albert Ayler
Album: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght 1970
Tune: Spirits
Label: Lonehill Jazz
Artist: The Souljazz Orchestra
Album: Freedom No Go Die
Tune: Mojuba
Label: Do Right Music
Artist: Albert Ayler
Album: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght 1970
Tune: Holy Family
Label: Lonehill Jazz
Artist: Albert Ayler
Album: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght 1970
Tune: Spirits Rejoice
Label: Lonehill Jazz
Artist: Gene DiNovi
Album: Plays Duke Ellington & Billy Strayhorn
Tune: Cop Out
Label: Baldwin Street Music
Artist: Albert Ayler
Album: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght 1970
Tune: Truth Is Marching In
Label: Lonehill Jazz
Artist: Albert Ayler
Album: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght 1970
Tune: Universal Message
Label: Lonehill Jazz
Artist: Alex Dean Quintet
Album: Kaitlyn’s Waltz
Tune: Skylark
Label: Unity
Artist: Albert Ayler
Album: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght 1970
Tune: Spiritual Reunion
Label: Lonehill Jazz
Artist: Albert Ayler
Album: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght 1970
Tune: Music Is The Healing Force of the Universe
Label: Lonehill Jazz
_______________________________________________________________
“In A Mellow Tone” is on CKCU every Wednesday from 9:00 to 11:00pm
at 93.1FM in Ottawa and around the world on the Internet at
http://www.ckcufm.com/audio.html
Earlier playlists can be found at: www.inamellowtone.com
__________________________________________
Steve Tintweiss and Allen Blairman.
We’ll also sample upcoming concerts by the Souljazz Orchestra
[July 30 at Le Petit Chicago], pianist Gene DiNovi [August 3 at St. Brigid’s]
and saxophonist Alex Dean [August 12 at the Carleton University Jazz Camp].
Artist: Albert Ayler
Album: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght 1970
Tune: In Heart Only
Label: Lonehill Jazz
Artist: Albert Ayler
Album: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght 1970
Tune: Spirits
Label: Lonehill Jazz
Artist: The Souljazz Orchestra
Album: Freedom No Go Die
Tune: Mojuba
Label: Do Right Music
Artist: Albert Ayler
Album: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght 1970
Tune: Holy Family
Label: Lonehill Jazz
Artist: Albert Ayler
Album: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght 1970
Tune: Spirits Rejoice
Label: Lonehill Jazz
Artist: Gene DiNovi
Album: Plays Duke Ellington & Billy Strayhorn
Tune: Cop Out
Label: Baldwin Street Music
Artist: Albert Ayler
Album: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght 1970
Tune: Truth Is Marching In
Label: Lonehill Jazz
Artist: Albert Ayler
Album: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght 1970
Tune: Universal Message
Label: Lonehill Jazz
Artist: Alex Dean Quintet
Album: Kaitlyn’s Waltz
Tune: Skylark
Label: Unity
Artist: Albert Ayler
Album: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght 1970
Tune: Spiritual Reunion
Label: Lonehill Jazz
Artist: Albert Ayler
Album: Nuits de la Fondation Maeght 1970
Tune: Music Is The Healing Force of the Universe
Label: Lonehill Jazz
_______________________________________________________________
“In A Mellow Tone” is on CKCU every Wednesday from 9:00 to 11:00pm
at 93.1FM in Ottawa and around the world on the Internet at
http://www.ckcufm.com/audio.html
Earlier playlists can be found at: www.inamellowtone.com
__________________________________________
July 15, 2010
PLAYLIST for JULY 21, 2010
Lester Young: Rare recordings from clubs and concerts, made between 1951 & 1956
with sidemen Miles Davis, Jesse Drakes, Gus Johnson, Jo Jones, Connie Kay,
John Lewis, Gene Ramey, Horace Silver, Earl Swope, Idrees Sulieman & Rene Utreger.
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: A Ghost of a Chance
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: How High the Moon
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Detention Barracks Blues
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Too Marvellous For Words
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: It’s Only A Paper Moon
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Up And At ‘Em
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: I Cover the Waterfront
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Detention Barracks Blues
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Lester’s Mop Mop Blues
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Polka Dots and Moonbeams
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Three Little Words
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Lester Leaps In
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Oh Lady Be Good
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Jumpin’ With Symphony Sid
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Lullaby of Birdland
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Lester Leaps In
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: These Foolish Things
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Pennies From Heaven
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Polka Dots and Moonbeams
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Indiana
Label: Storyville
_______________________________________________________________
“In A Mellow Tone” is on CKCU every Wednesday from 9:00 to 11:00pm
at 93.1FM in Ottawa and around the world on the Internet at
http://www.ckcufm.com/audio.html
Earlier playlists can be found at: www.inamellowtone.com
____________________________________________
with sidemen Miles Davis, Jesse Drakes, Gus Johnson, Jo Jones, Connie Kay,
John Lewis, Gene Ramey, Horace Silver, Earl Swope, Idrees Sulieman & Rene Utreger.
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: A Ghost of a Chance
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: How High the Moon
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Detention Barracks Blues
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Too Marvellous For Words
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: It’s Only A Paper Moon
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Up And At ‘Em
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: I Cover the Waterfront
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Detention Barracks Blues
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Lester’s Mop Mop Blues
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Polka Dots and Moonbeams
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Three Little Words
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Lester Leaps In
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Oh Lady Be Good
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Jumpin’ With Symphony Sid
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Lullaby of Birdland
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Lester Leaps In
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: These Foolish Things
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Pennies From Heaven
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Polka Dots and Moonbeams
Label: Storyville
Artist: Lester Young
Album: 100 Years – Forever Young
Tune: Indiana
Label: Storyville
_______________________________________________________________
“In A Mellow Tone” is on CKCU every Wednesday from 9:00 to 11:00pm
at 93.1FM in Ottawa and around the world on the Internet at
http://www.ckcufm.com/audio.html
Earlier playlists can be found at: www.inamellowtone.com
____________________________________________
July 08, 2010
PLAYLIST for JULY 14, 2010
MYRA MELFORD: This leading jazz pianist has made fifteen CDs as leader or sideman since 2000. Tonight, we’ll sample ten of them in chronological order.
Artist: Myra Melford & Marty Ehrlich
Album: Yet Can Spring
Tune: The Open Return
Label: Arabesque
Artist: Myra Melford: The Tent
Album: Where the Two Worlds Touch
Tune: Brainfire and Buglight
Label: Arabesque
Artist: Myra Melford: Be Bread
Album: The Image of Your Body
Tune: Fear Slips Behind
Label: Cryptogramophone
Artist: Andrew Drury
Album: My Fingers Will Be Your Tears
Tune: Interlude
Label: Cadence
Artist: Andrew Drury
Album: My Fingers Will Be Your Tears
Tune: My Fingers Will Be Your Tears
Label: Cadence
Artist: Myra Melford & Tanya Kalmanovitch
Album: Heart Mountain
Tune: Cave and Basin
Label: Perspicacity
Artist: Myra Melford & Tanya Kalmanovitch
Album: Heart Mountain
Tune: Three Sisters
Label: Perspicacity
Artist: Trio M
Album: Big Picture
Tune: Secrets to Tell You
Label: Cryptogramophone
Artist: Marty Ehrlich & Myra Melford
Album: Spark!
Tune: Hymn
Label: Palmetto
Artist: Marty Ehrlich & Myra Melford
Album: Spark!
Tune: Blue Delhi
Label: Palmetto
Artist: Satoko Fujii & Myra Melford
Album: Under The Water
Tune: Utsubo
Label: Libra
Artist: Alex Cline
Album: Continuation
Tune: On the Bones of the Homegoing Thunder
Label: Cryptogramophone
Artist: Myra Melford’s Be Bread
Album: The Whole Tree Gone
Tune: Moon Bird
Label: Firehouse 12
Artist: Myra Melford’s Be Bread
Album: The Whole Tree Gone
Tune: The Whole Tree Gone
Label: Firehouse 12
________________________________________________
“In A Mellow Tone” is on CKCU every Wednesday from 9:00 to 11:00pm
at 93.1FM in Ottawa and around the world on the Internet at
http://www.ckcufm.com/audio.html
Earlier playlists can be found at: www.inamellowtone.com
________________________________________________
Artist: Myra Melford & Marty Ehrlich
Album: Yet Can Spring
Tune: The Open Return
Label: Arabesque
Artist: Myra Melford: The Tent
Album: Where the Two Worlds Touch
Tune: Brainfire and Buglight
Label: Arabesque
Artist: Myra Melford: Be Bread
Album: The Image of Your Body
Tune: Fear Slips Behind
Label: Cryptogramophone
Artist: Andrew Drury
Album: My Fingers Will Be Your Tears
Tune: Interlude
Label: Cadence
Artist: Andrew Drury
Album: My Fingers Will Be Your Tears
Tune: My Fingers Will Be Your Tears
Label: Cadence
Artist: Myra Melford & Tanya Kalmanovitch
Album: Heart Mountain
Tune: Cave and Basin
Label: Perspicacity
Artist: Myra Melford & Tanya Kalmanovitch
Album: Heart Mountain
Tune: Three Sisters
Label: Perspicacity
Artist: Trio M
Album: Big Picture
Tune: Secrets to Tell You
Label: Cryptogramophone
Artist: Marty Ehrlich & Myra Melford
Album: Spark!
Tune: Hymn
Label: Palmetto
Artist: Marty Ehrlich & Myra Melford
Album: Spark!
Tune: Blue Delhi
Label: Palmetto
Artist: Satoko Fujii & Myra Melford
Album: Under The Water
Tune: Utsubo
Label: Libra
Artist: Alex Cline
Album: Continuation
Tune: On the Bones of the Homegoing Thunder
Label: Cryptogramophone
Artist: Myra Melford’s Be Bread
Album: The Whole Tree Gone
Tune: Moon Bird
Label: Firehouse 12
Artist: Myra Melford’s Be Bread
Album: The Whole Tree Gone
Tune: The Whole Tree Gone
Label: Firehouse 12
________________________________________________
“In A Mellow Tone” is on CKCU every Wednesday from 9:00 to 11:00pm
at 93.1FM in Ottawa and around the world on the Internet at
http://www.ckcufm.com/audio.html
Earlier playlists can be found at: www.inamellowtone.com
________________________________________________
July 06, 2010
OTTAWA INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL 2010
OTTAWA INTERNATIONAL JAZZ FESTIVAL 2010
THURSDAY JUNE 24
Michelle Gregoire Quintet
Could be the Canadian team for a Jazz World Cup, with Kevin Turcotte [trumpet],
Kirk MacDonald [tenor sax], Michelle Gregoire [piano], Jim Vivian [bass]
and Ted Warren [drums]. They specialised in playing leader Michelle Gregoire’s compositions, with some inspired soloing from Kevin, Kirk and Michelle.
Little Red Suitcase
Very original/quirky in compositions and presentation, emphasised by the physical contrast between short dark vocalist Elena Setien from Spain and lanky tawny pianist Johanne Bochert from Germany.
Mikko Innanen & Innkvisitio
Avant-garde fun group led by Finnish alto/baritone saxophonist Mikko Innanen,
using rather repetitive approach to a selection of original tunes.
FRIDAY JUNE 25
Etienne Charles
Tightly-knit quintet led by Trinidadian trumpeter who draws upon Trinidad folklore for inspiration. Quintet made up of three Afro-Americans, one Afro-Guadeloupian and one Afro-Trinidadian. Unpretentious presentation style by leader. The concert featured exclusively his compositions. Outstanding drummer.
Christy Doran, Stucky, Studer etc
Christy Doran plays extremely competent guitar but lacks stage presence; this is more than compensated for by Erika Stucky, who effectively fronts the band as singer, compere and centre of visual [but not musical] attraction.
Dupont T
Very skilled French bassist-leader, so lots of long introductions and long solos on a modernistic bass which could have been designed by Henry Moore. Tasty alto player also solos.
SATURDAY JUNE 26
Al Henderson Septet
Canadian bassist, composer, bandleader Al Henderson is one of a generation of
well-educated musicians who have chosen the path of using composition as a structure within which individual improvisation can take place, as opposed to a much more freely-improvised approach. This septet illustrated this trend and exemplified the increasing use of cellos in these contemporary ensembles.
Eric Boeren Quartet
Four of the most skillful and inspired musicians in the international free-jazz fraternity. The quartet stays true to its Ornette Coleman Quartet source of inspiration, but has smoothed off some of the rougher and more dissonant aspects of the original.
Bill Frisell
It’s not folk, it’s not jazz, it’s not chamber music, it’s an experiment which falls between all these stools.
Bettye LaVette
A legendary soul singer still at the top of her game.
Christine Jensen Jazz Orchestra
An eighteen-piece orchestra which is not only large numerically but is bursting with talent. Christine’s original compositions and arranging skills are a further strength. You’re going to hear a lot more about this orchestra.
SUNDAY JUNE 27
Anat Cohen Quartet
Clarinetist Anat Cohen was supported by a very empathetic trio; strong guitar accompanist and outstanding soloist Gilad Hekselman, solid bassist Joe Martin and Etienne Charles’ drummer Obed Calvaire sitting in and demonstrating his stylistic flexibility. The repertoire was redolent of the early days of jazz, for which
Anat demonstrated great affinity.
Min Rager Quintet
With this quintet we moved forward in jazz history to the bebop period, with strong solos from trumpeter Kevin Dean and alto saxophonist Donny Kennedy. Ms. Rager has plenty of technique but has yet to establish a personal voice in her soloing.
Robert Glasper Trio
And now we’re in the 21st century with the technically superb trio led by pianist Robert Glasper. A very relaxed approach and some humourous musical, physical and verbal interplay between pianist and drummer, but a lack of solid content which meant that I left the concert with an unsatisfied feeling.
John Scofield & Piety
In my wildest dreams I never expected to hear John Scofield present a program of gospel music. His guitar, the organist and drummer were all convincing.
Mostly Other People Do The Killing
Despite their unfortunate name, I have enjoyed each CD by this quartet and was eagerly anticipating their performance. I was not disappointed and nor was the enthusiastic crowd. Their live performance differed from their recordings in two ways; firstly they are extremely loud and secondly they morph from one tune to another leaving one feeling one or two steps behind what’s evolving on stage.
The instrumentation and the initial inspiration come from the classic Ornette Coleman Quartet, but almost every tune is an original by bassist/leader “Moppa” Elliott. They are all strong soloists, with the technical brilliance of trumpeter Peter Evans particularly outstanding.
MONDAY JUNE 28
Globe Unity Orchestra
I left Europe two years after the Globe Unity Orchestra was founded, so perhaps it is not surprising that this was the first time that I saw and heard this fabled ensemble in the flesh. Four saxes, two trumpets, two trombones, two drummers and one pianist placed in a semi-circle for one 75 minute improvisation; everyone playing continuously, developing patterns, harmonizing with their nearest neighbours, and then stretching out to support whoever had decided that it was their moment to step forward to the microphone to solo. An inspiring living demonstration of global musical unity.
TUESDAY JUNE 29
Cuong Vu, Jim Lewis, John Geggie, Jim Doxas
It is rare to be able to describe any concert as an absolute delight, but this was one of those rare occasions. Supported by the skillful bass playing of John Geggie and the sensitive drumming of Jim Doxas, trumpeter Cuong Vu and trumpeter/flugelhorn player Jim Lewis played a series of duets. Their styles are different; Jim has a beautiful brassy tone and very fast fingering, Cuong utilises a more vocalized tone. Both played beautifully, in question-and-answer duets and inspired solo outings.
Joe Lovano
The big man of the saxophone had a kick-ass quartet accompanying him. He played with great strength and vigour; I doubt that anyone in the audience left this concert feeling unsatisfied.
Roy Hargrove Big Band
Is it just me, or does Roy Hargrove’s playing, physique, stance and even walk grow closer to Roy Eldridge every day? And what greater mentor could he have chosen?
So, I loved his playing, but I found that the arrangements for his big band lacked any originality or excitement.
WEDNESDAY JUNE 30
Radio String Quartet
This string quartet [2 violins, viola and cello] comes to us from Vienna but thankfully didn’t play any Strauss. What they did play were their arrangements of John McLaughlin compositions, and they played them brilliantly; their technical command and thorough musicality shining through each piece.
Matt Wilson
The OIJF program did not divulge who Matt Wilson would be bringing with him, so I was surprised and delighted when Denver trumpeter Ron Miles was announced. Playing a trumpet/cornet which suited his preference for the instrument’s middle range, he and Matt made a great duo. Matt is known for his immaculate and swinging drumming, and did not disappoint.
FRIDAY JULY 2
Souljazz Orchestra
Ottawa band with unusual lineup of three saxes, gourd, piano and drums and an African orientation. They put on a good show; lots of enthusiasm, well-rehearsed movement, ensemble singing, all combine to welcome the listener into the music.
They have enjoyed well-earned success internationally.
Gord Grdina
Guitar and oud player, composer, bandleader Gord Grdina is a musical chameleon. Every CD that I have heard by him has been quite different in inspiration and direction, but similar in high musicality and a determination to push the musical borders. Last night’s performance borrowed from rock in terms of breakneck speed, screaming guitar and deafening drums, but it demonstrated a jazz sensibility in the virtuoso performance of clarinetist Francois Houle. Not for the faint-at-heart.
Joshua Redman
It is unfair, but it is hard to resist comparing a child’s achievements with his or her famous parent. When one sees/hears Joshua Redman, the memories of his father Dewey come flooding back, but Joshua is determined to play his music in his way,
and that’s what he did. He uses a light tone on his tenor saxophone, often taking it into the alto range, and tells the story of each piece he plays in a straight-forward uncomplicated manner, which is obviously welcomed by the general audience but leaves the more demanding jazz fan wishing for a more challenging approach.
SATURDAY JULY 3
Fred Hersch
An acoustically perfect air-conditioned concert hall on a hot Saturday afternoon, a sold-out concert with an enthusiastic audience and a very talented and original pianist called Fred Hersch; it doesn’t get any better than this!
Wide Alley
An orchestra of five Australian musicians playing Western instruments, four Chinese musicians playing Oriental instruments, plus a Chinese singer, in a wonderful collaborative project between Australia and China. There are some examples of Western music, but most of the time is spent on Chinese and Australian musicians playing Chinese music. Not jazz by any stretch of the imagination, but a unique cultural experience.
Neil Cowley Trio
Neil Cowley is an English pianist with large hands, a percussive style and an engaging streak of Cockney humour. He is aided and abetted by Richard Sadler on bass and Evan Jenkins on drums. They played an energetic set full of high spots and high jinks.
SUNDAY JULY 4
Christian Scott
Trumpeter Christian Scott runs a tight band. His band has all been with him for some years and their empathy shows in every piece they play. Individually, the pianist is a strong soloist, the bassist seems to possess superhuman digital dexterity, the drummer is super-energetic and the guitarist feeds all the right chords to the leader and took a couple of impressive solos.
Christian Scott comes on stage bringing with him some of the hype that his agency’s publicity campaign has burdened him with, the “hip” clothing, apparent disdain for the audience, the lack of tune announcements. This took about thirty minutes to wear off. When he took off the jacket and scarf, appearing in his shirt-sleeves just like the other musicians, and when he introduced each band member with a humourous anecdote, he became a real live likeable caring person, and his playing took on a more relaxed and personal dimension. Make no doubt about it; he is a talented young trumpeter who will hopefully enjoy a successful career.
Composer’s Collective
One of the innovative aspects of the Ottawa Jazz Festival is their concern with encouraging the young talents that the music will need in the future. This was exemplified by Jazz Workshops throughout the week, the Jazz Youth Summit on July 3, and the Composer’s Collective on July 4, in which Lina Allemano, Richie Barshay, Andrew Downing and Petr Cancura introduced their compositions, which the quartet then performed. A window into the future.
Tomasz Stanko
Supported musically by a group of young-looking but talented musicians, veteran Polish trumpeter Tomasz Stanko used a pure tone and strong drive in his solos, which ranged from cerebral to downright funky. I got the feeling that I was listening to a man who had made history but who is very much a part of today’s scene.
_______________________________________________________________
THURSDAY JUNE 24
Michelle Gregoire Quintet
Could be the Canadian team for a Jazz World Cup, with Kevin Turcotte [trumpet],
Kirk MacDonald [tenor sax], Michelle Gregoire [piano], Jim Vivian [bass]
and Ted Warren [drums]. They specialised in playing leader Michelle Gregoire’s compositions, with some inspired soloing from Kevin, Kirk and Michelle.
Little Red Suitcase
Very original/quirky in compositions and presentation, emphasised by the physical contrast between short dark vocalist Elena Setien from Spain and lanky tawny pianist Johanne Bochert from Germany.
Mikko Innanen & Innkvisitio
Avant-garde fun group led by Finnish alto/baritone saxophonist Mikko Innanen,
using rather repetitive approach to a selection of original tunes.
FRIDAY JUNE 25
Etienne Charles
Tightly-knit quintet led by Trinidadian trumpeter who draws upon Trinidad folklore for inspiration. Quintet made up of three Afro-Americans, one Afro-Guadeloupian and one Afro-Trinidadian. Unpretentious presentation style by leader. The concert featured exclusively his compositions. Outstanding drummer.
Christy Doran, Stucky, Studer etc
Christy Doran plays extremely competent guitar but lacks stage presence; this is more than compensated for by Erika Stucky, who effectively fronts the band as singer, compere and centre of visual [but not musical] attraction.
Dupont T
Very skilled French bassist-leader, so lots of long introductions and long solos on a modernistic bass which could have been designed by Henry Moore. Tasty alto player also solos.
SATURDAY JUNE 26
Al Henderson Septet
Canadian bassist, composer, bandleader Al Henderson is one of a generation of
well-educated musicians who have chosen the path of using composition as a structure within which individual improvisation can take place, as opposed to a much more freely-improvised approach. This septet illustrated this trend and exemplified the increasing use of cellos in these contemporary ensembles.
Eric Boeren Quartet
Four of the most skillful and inspired musicians in the international free-jazz fraternity. The quartet stays true to its Ornette Coleman Quartet source of inspiration, but has smoothed off some of the rougher and more dissonant aspects of the original.
Bill Frisell
It’s not folk, it’s not jazz, it’s not chamber music, it’s an experiment which falls between all these stools.
Bettye LaVette
A legendary soul singer still at the top of her game.
Christine Jensen Jazz Orchestra
An eighteen-piece orchestra which is not only large numerically but is bursting with talent. Christine’s original compositions and arranging skills are a further strength. You’re going to hear a lot more about this orchestra.
SUNDAY JUNE 27
Anat Cohen Quartet
Clarinetist Anat Cohen was supported by a very empathetic trio; strong guitar accompanist and outstanding soloist Gilad Hekselman, solid bassist Joe Martin and Etienne Charles’ drummer Obed Calvaire sitting in and demonstrating his stylistic flexibility. The repertoire was redolent of the early days of jazz, for which
Anat demonstrated great affinity.
Min Rager Quintet
With this quintet we moved forward in jazz history to the bebop period, with strong solos from trumpeter Kevin Dean and alto saxophonist Donny Kennedy. Ms. Rager has plenty of technique but has yet to establish a personal voice in her soloing.
Robert Glasper Trio
And now we’re in the 21st century with the technically superb trio led by pianist Robert Glasper. A very relaxed approach and some humourous musical, physical and verbal interplay between pianist and drummer, but a lack of solid content which meant that I left the concert with an unsatisfied feeling.
John Scofield & Piety
In my wildest dreams I never expected to hear John Scofield present a program of gospel music. His guitar, the organist and drummer were all convincing.
Mostly Other People Do The Killing
Despite their unfortunate name, I have enjoyed each CD by this quartet and was eagerly anticipating their performance. I was not disappointed and nor was the enthusiastic crowd. Their live performance differed from their recordings in two ways; firstly they are extremely loud and secondly they morph from one tune to another leaving one feeling one or two steps behind what’s evolving on stage.
The instrumentation and the initial inspiration come from the classic Ornette Coleman Quartet, but almost every tune is an original by bassist/leader “Moppa” Elliott. They are all strong soloists, with the technical brilliance of trumpeter Peter Evans particularly outstanding.
MONDAY JUNE 28
Globe Unity Orchestra
I left Europe two years after the Globe Unity Orchestra was founded, so perhaps it is not surprising that this was the first time that I saw and heard this fabled ensemble in the flesh. Four saxes, two trumpets, two trombones, two drummers and one pianist placed in a semi-circle for one 75 minute improvisation; everyone playing continuously, developing patterns, harmonizing with their nearest neighbours, and then stretching out to support whoever had decided that it was their moment to step forward to the microphone to solo. An inspiring living demonstration of global musical unity.
TUESDAY JUNE 29
Cuong Vu, Jim Lewis, John Geggie, Jim Doxas
It is rare to be able to describe any concert as an absolute delight, but this was one of those rare occasions. Supported by the skillful bass playing of John Geggie and the sensitive drumming of Jim Doxas, trumpeter Cuong Vu and trumpeter/flugelhorn player Jim Lewis played a series of duets. Their styles are different; Jim has a beautiful brassy tone and very fast fingering, Cuong utilises a more vocalized tone. Both played beautifully, in question-and-answer duets and inspired solo outings.
Joe Lovano
The big man of the saxophone had a kick-ass quartet accompanying him. He played with great strength and vigour; I doubt that anyone in the audience left this concert feeling unsatisfied.
Roy Hargrove Big Band
Is it just me, or does Roy Hargrove’s playing, physique, stance and even walk grow closer to Roy Eldridge every day? And what greater mentor could he have chosen?
So, I loved his playing, but I found that the arrangements for his big band lacked any originality or excitement.
WEDNESDAY JUNE 30
Radio String Quartet
This string quartet [2 violins, viola and cello] comes to us from Vienna but thankfully didn’t play any Strauss. What they did play were their arrangements of John McLaughlin compositions, and they played them brilliantly; their technical command and thorough musicality shining through each piece.
Matt Wilson
The OIJF program did not divulge who Matt Wilson would be bringing with him, so I was surprised and delighted when Denver trumpeter Ron Miles was announced. Playing a trumpet/cornet which suited his preference for the instrument’s middle range, he and Matt made a great duo. Matt is known for his immaculate and swinging drumming, and did not disappoint.
FRIDAY JULY 2
Souljazz Orchestra
Ottawa band with unusual lineup of three saxes, gourd, piano and drums and an African orientation. They put on a good show; lots of enthusiasm, well-rehearsed movement, ensemble singing, all combine to welcome the listener into the music.
They have enjoyed well-earned success internationally.
Gord Grdina
Guitar and oud player, composer, bandleader Gord Grdina is a musical chameleon. Every CD that I have heard by him has been quite different in inspiration and direction, but similar in high musicality and a determination to push the musical borders. Last night’s performance borrowed from rock in terms of breakneck speed, screaming guitar and deafening drums, but it demonstrated a jazz sensibility in the virtuoso performance of clarinetist Francois Houle. Not for the faint-at-heart.
Joshua Redman
It is unfair, but it is hard to resist comparing a child’s achievements with his or her famous parent. When one sees/hears Joshua Redman, the memories of his father Dewey come flooding back, but Joshua is determined to play his music in his way,
and that’s what he did. He uses a light tone on his tenor saxophone, often taking it into the alto range, and tells the story of each piece he plays in a straight-forward uncomplicated manner, which is obviously welcomed by the general audience but leaves the more demanding jazz fan wishing for a more challenging approach.
SATURDAY JULY 3
Fred Hersch
An acoustically perfect air-conditioned concert hall on a hot Saturday afternoon, a sold-out concert with an enthusiastic audience and a very talented and original pianist called Fred Hersch; it doesn’t get any better than this!
Wide Alley
An orchestra of five Australian musicians playing Western instruments, four Chinese musicians playing Oriental instruments, plus a Chinese singer, in a wonderful collaborative project between Australia and China. There are some examples of Western music, but most of the time is spent on Chinese and Australian musicians playing Chinese music. Not jazz by any stretch of the imagination, but a unique cultural experience.
Neil Cowley Trio
Neil Cowley is an English pianist with large hands, a percussive style and an engaging streak of Cockney humour. He is aided and abetted by Richard Sadler on bass and Evan Jenkins on drums. They played an energetic set full of high spots and high jinks.
SUNDAY JULY 4
Christian Scott
Trumpeter Christian Scott runs a tight band. His band has all been with him for some years and their empathy shows in every piece they play. Individually, the pianist is a strong soloist, the bassist seems to possess superhuman digital dexterity, the drummer is super-energetic and the guitarist feeds all the right chords to the leader and took a couple of impressive solos.
Christian Scott comes on stage bringing with him some of the hype that his agency’s publicity campaign has burdened him with, the “hip” clothing, apparent disdain for the audience, the lack of tune announcements. This took about thirty minutes to wear off. When he took off the jacket and scarf, appearing in his shirt-sleeves just like the other musicians, and when he introduced each band member with a humourous anecdote, he became a real live likeable caring person, and his playing took on a more relaxed and personal dimension. Make no doubt about it; he is a talented young trumpeter who will hopefully enjoy a successful career.
Composer’s Collective
One of the innovative aspects of the Ottawa Jazz Festival is their concern with encouraging the young talents that the music will need in the future. This was exemplified by Jazz Workshops throughout the week, the Jazz Youth Summit on July 3, and the Composer’s Collective on July 4, in which Lina Allemano, Richie Barshay, Andrew Downing and Petr Cancura introduced their compositions, which the quartet then performed. A window into the future.
Tomasz Stanko
Supported musically by a group of young-looking but talented musicians, veteran Polish trumpeter Tomasz Stanko used a pure tone and strong drive in his solos, which ranged from cerebral to downright funky. I got the feeling that I was listening to a man who had made history but who is very much a part of today’s scene.
_______________________________________________________________
July 03, 2010
PLAYLIST for JULY 7, 2010
LISTEN BEFORE YOU BUY: Eleven recent jazz and blues issues in a wide range of styles.
Artist: One For All
Album: Incorrigible
Tune: Blues For Jose
Label: Jazz Legacy
Artist: One For All
Album: Incorrigible
Tune: Incorrigible
Label: Jazz Legacy
Artist: Tom Graf
Album: Grafitti
Tune: BL&T
Label: Borrowed Time Music
Artist: 3ology with Ron Miles
Album: 3ology with Ron Miles
Tune: Aw Dude
Label: Tapestry
Artist: Project Trio
Album: Project Trio
Tune: Blues Rondo a la Turk
Label: Harmonyville Records
Artist: Project Trio
Album: Project Trio
Tune: Fast
Label: Harmonyville Records
Artist: Tomas Ulrich/Ralph Sturm/Michael Bisio
Album: Lonely House
Tune: September Song
Label: CIMP
Artist: Tomas Ulrich/Ralph Sturm/Michael Bisio
Album: Lonely House
Tune: Come On In My Kitchen
Label: CIMP
Artist: Dither
Album: Dither
Tune: Vectors
Label: Henceforth
Artist: Dither
Album: Dither
Tune: Entropion
Label: Henceforth
Artist: Karin Plato
Album: Out of Town
Tune: I’d Rather Be Somewhere Hot
Label: KPlato
Artist: Karin Plato
Album: Out of Town
Tune: Day In, Day Out
Label: KPlato
Artist: Taeko
Album: Voice
Tune: I Didn’t Know About You
Label: Flatninerecords
Artist: Taeko
Album: Voice
Tune: I Mean You
Label: Flatninerecords
Artist: The Bluesmasters
Album: The Bluesmasters
Tune: Can’t Get No Grindin’
Label: DMD
Artist: The Bluesmasters
Album: The Bluesmasters
Tune: Cherry Red
Label: DMD
Artist: Rocky Jackson
Album: Testify!
Tune: Voodoo Spell
Label: High Life Records
Artist: Rocky Jackson
Album: Testify!
Tune: Stop Breakin’ Down
Label: High Life Records
Artist: Mendelson Joe
Album: Spoiled Bratland
Tune: Puke [He Makes Me]
Label: Old Bold Records
Artist: Mendelson Joe
Album: Spoiled Bratland
Tune: Honkis de Konkis
Label: Old Bold Records
__________________________________________________
“In A Mellow Tone” is on CKCU every Wednesday from 9:00 to 11:00pm
at 93.1FM in Ottawa and around the world on the Internet at
http://www.ckcufm.com/audio.html
Earlier playlists can be found at: www.inamellowtone.com
_______________________________________________
Artist: One For All
Album: Incorrigible
Tune: Blues For Jose
Label: Jazz Legacy
Artist: One For All
Album: Incorrigible
Tune: Incorrigible
Label: Jazz Legacy
Artist: Tom Graf
Album: Grafitti
Tune: BL&T
Label: Borrowed Time Music
Artist: 3ology with Ron Miles
Album: 3ology with Ron Miles
Tune: Aw Dude
Label: Tapestry
Artist: Project Trio
Album: Project Trio
Tune: Blues Rondo a la Turk
Label: Harmonyville Records
Artist: Project Trio
Album: Project Trio
Tune: Fast
Label: Harmonyville Records
Artist: Tomas Ulrich/Ralph Sturm/Michael Bisio
Album: Lonely House
Tune: September Song
Label: CIMP
Artist: Tomas Ulrich/Ralph Sturm/Michael Bisio
Album: Lonely House
Tune: Come On In My Kitchen
Label: CIMP
Artist: Dither
Album: Dither
Tune: Vectors
Label: Henceforth
Artist: Dither
Album: Dither
Tune: Entropion
Label: Henceforth
Artist: Karin Plato
Album: Out of Town
Tune: I’d Rather Be Somewhere Hot
Label: KPlato
Artist: Karin Plato
Album: Out of Town
Tune: Day In, Day Out
Label: KPlato
Artist: Taeko
Album: Voice
Tune: I Didn’t Know About You
Label: Flatninerecords
Artist: Taeko
Album: Voice
Tune: I Mean You
Label: Flatninerecords
Artist: The Bluesmasters
Album: The Bluesmasters
Tune: Can’t Get No Grindin’
Label: DMD
Artist: The Bluesmasters
Album: The Bluesmasters
Tune: Cherry Red
Label: DMD
Artist: Rocky Jackson
Album: Testify!
Tune: Voodoo Spell
Label: High Life Records
Artist: Rocky Jackson
Album: Testify!
Tune: Stop Breakin’ Down
Label: High Life Records
Artist: Mendelson Joe
Album: Spoiled Bratland
Tune: Puke [He Makes Me]
Label: Old Bold Records
Artist: Mendelson Joe
Album: Spoiled Bratland
Tune: Honkis de Konkis
Label: Old Bold Records
__________________________________________________
“In A Mellow Tone” is on CKCU every Wednesday from 9:00 to 11:00pm
at 93.1FM in Ottawa and around the world on the Internet at
http://www.ckcufm.com/audio.html
Earlier playlists can be found at: www.inamellowtone.com
_______________________________________________
July 01, 2010
JULY & AUGUST on IN A MELLOW TONE
July 7 Listen Before You Buy: Ron reviews recent jazz and blues releases by the
Bluesmasters, Dither, Tom Graf, Rocky Jackson, Mendelson Joe, Ron Miles,
One For All, Karin Plato, Project Trio, Taeko and Tomas Ulrich.
July 14 Myra Melford: An update on this eminent pianist’s recording activities since 2000, with Alex Cline, Mark Dresser, Andrew Drury, Marty Ehrlich, Satoko Fujii, Ben Goldberg, Tanya Kalmanovitch, Chris Speed, Cuong Vu
and Matt Wilson.
July 21 Lester Young: Rare recordings from clubs and concerts, made between 1951 & 1956 with sidemen Miles Davis, Jesse Drakes, Gus Johnson, Jo Jones, Connie Kay,
John Lewis, Gene Ramey, Horace Silver, Earl Swope, Idrees Sulieman & Rene Utreger.
July 28 Albert Ayler at La Fondation Maeght: We celebrate the fortieth anniversary of this famous concert in St Paul de Vence on July 27, 1970 by Albert Ayler,
Allen Blairman, Call Cobbs, Mary Maria Parks and Steve Tintweiss.
August 4 Listen Before You Buy: The cream of the crop of recent jazz and blues releases. Will be chosen from Willie Buck, Joost Buis, Mark Charig,
Corey Christiansen, Elastic Jargon, Curtis Fuller, Gridmesh, I Compani,
ICP Orchestra, Alexey Lapin, Mark Lomax, Thomas Marriott, Jamie Ousley,
Melvyn Poore, Monica Ramey, Scenes, Matthias Schubert, John Skillman, Speak,
Sultans of String, Roger Turner, Ray Vega, Carrie Wicks and Yotam.
August 11 Pianorama: The piano stylings of Beegie Adair, Antonio Adolfo, Ran Blake, Salvatore Bonafede, Michiel Braam, Hal Galper, Nico Huijbregts, Keith Jarrett,
Russ Kassoff, Roberto Magris, Andrew Oliver, Michael Jefry Stevens and Trichotomy.
August 18 Guelph Jazz Festival: A preview of the artists who will be appearing at the Guelph Jazz Festival between September 8 and September 12.
August 25 Sax Appeal: A flurry of saxophones with Dave Anderson, Tobias Delius,
Paul Dunmall, Peter Epstein, David Liebman, James Moody, Ken Peplowski,
Odean Pope, Tineke Postma, Peter van Bergen, Paul van Kemenade,
The Wellstone Conspiracy and Michael Zilber.
“In A Mellow Tone” is on CKCU every Wednesday from 9:00 to 11:00pm at 93.1FM in Ottawa, and around the world on the Internet at: http://www.ckcufm.com/audio.html
For playlists for each program and monthly schedules check: www.inamellowtone.com
_________________________________________________________________________
Bluesmasters, Dither, Tom Graf, Rocky Jackson, Mendelson Joe, Ron Miles,
One For All, Karin Plato, Project Trio, Taeko and Tomas Ulrich.
July 14 Myra Melford: An update on this eminent pianist’s recording activities since 2000, with Alex Cline, Mark Dresser, Andrew Drury, Marty Ehrlich, Satoko Fujii, Ben Goldberg, Tanya Kalmanovitch, Chris Speed, Cuong Vu
and Matt Wilson.
July 21 Lester Young: Rare recordings from clubs and concerts, made between 1951 & 1956 with sidemen Miles Davis, Jesse Drakes, Gus Johnson, Jo Jones, Connie Kay,
John Lewis, Gene Ramey, Horace Silver, Earl Swope, Idrees Sulieman & Rene Utreger.
July 28 Albert Ayler at La Fondation Maeght: We celebrate the fortieth anniversary of this famous concert in St Paul de Vence on July 27, 1970 by Albert Ayler,
Allen Blairman, Call Cobbs, Mary Maria Parks and Steve Tintweiss.
August 4 Listen Before You Buy: The cream of the crop of recent jazz and blues releases. Will be chosen from Willie Buck, Joost Buis, Mark Charig,
Corey Christiansen, Elastic Jargon, Curtis Fuller, Gridmesh, I Compani,
ICP Orchestra, Alexey Lapin, Mark Lomax, Thomas Marriott, Jamie Ousley,
Melvyn Poore, Monica Ramey, Scenes, Matthias Schubert, John Skillman, Speak,
Sultans of String, Roger Turner, Ray Vega, Carrie Wicks and Yotam.
August 11 Pianorama: The piano stylings of Beegie Adair, Antonio Adolfo, Ran Blake, Salvatore Bonafede, Michiel Braam, Hal Galper, Nico Huijbregts, Keith Jarrett,
Russ Kassoff, Roberto Magris, Andrew Oliver, Michael Jefry Stevens and Trichotomy.
August 18 Guelph Jazz Festival: A preview of the artists who will be appearing at the Guelph Jazz Festival between September 8 and September 12.
August 25 Sax Appeal: A flurry of saxophones with Dave Anderson, Tobias Delius,
Paul Dunmall, Peter Epstein, David Liebman, James Moody, Ken Peplowski,
Odean Pope, Tineke Postma, Peter van Bergen, Paul van Kemenade,
The Wellstone Conspiracy and Michael Zilber.
“In A Mellow Tone” is on CKCU every Wednesday from 9:00 to 11:00pm at 93.1FM in Ottawa, and around the world on the Internet at: http://www.ckcufm.com/audio.html
For playlists for each program and monthly schedules check: www.inamellowtone.com
_________________________________________________________________________
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)