NOTE:I’m reposting this show (and calling it 344.1) because there was a problem with the initial audio file.

Saxophonist Tim Berne’s new band and album are both called Snakeoil (ECM, 2012). In this interview, Berne talks about what he looks for in new band members; what inspires him to compose; and why he believes the digital era has harmed independent record labels. Learn more at screwgunrecords.com.

ON TOUR: Snakeoil is touring the US and Europe. Visit Berne’s site for tour dates.

Saxophonist Noah Kaplan’s new CD is Descendants (Hat Hut, 2011) with Joe Morris on guitar, Giacomo Merega on bass and Jason Nazary on drums. In this interview, Kaplan talks about his life-changing studies with Joe Maneri; why classical music theory was important to his musical development; and how he approaches collective improvisation. Learn more at noah-kaplan.com.

CONCERT NOTE: The Noah Kaplan Quartet performs Friday, February 3, 2012 at Douglass Street Music Collective (295 Douglass St. Brooklyn, NY) at 8 p.m.

Pianist Tom Wetmore’s new CD is The Desired Effect (Crosstown Records, 2012). In this interview, Wetmore talks about why he wants people to “really listen”; why he tries not to assign particular meanings to his compositions; and about his Tune-A-Day project. Learn more at tomwetmore.com and tomstuneaday.com and follow him on Twitter at @tomwetmore.

Saxophonist Bob Reynolds’ most recent album is A Live Life (2011) and he’s currently working on his forthcoming studio album. Reynolds is perhaps best known for his work with rock musician John Mayer. In this interview, Reynolds talks about the importance of good time (in the musical sense); how he’s learned to bring an audience along for the ride; and about his video lesson service. Learn more at bobreynoldsmusic.com and follow him on Twitter at @Bob_Reynolds.

Drummer Matt Wilson’s new album with his band Arts & Crafts is An Attitude For Gratitude (Palmetto Records, 2012). In this interview, Wilson talks about the inclusive approach of the band; why he likes the word “allow”; and how a difficult year for his family helped him put things in perspective and brought the idea of gratitude into focus. Learn more at mattwilsonjazz.com and follow him on Twitter at @mattwilsonjazz.

NOTE: This interview is part of a new monthly collaboration with JazzDIY, the online journal for the 21st century jazz musician. Visit JazzDIY.com to see a video interview with Matt Wilson in which he talks about the business of music.

Pianist Armen Donelian’s new CD is Leapfrog (Sunnyside Records, 2011). In this interview, Donelian talks about his approach to playing the piano and his philosophy of music; his years with Mongo Santamaria and Sonny Rollins; and his other career as an educator. Learn more at armenjazz.com.

Drummer Barry Altschul’s latest CD is History Of Jazz In Reverse (TUM, 2011) with the FAB Trio featuring Joe Fonda and Billy Bang. In this interview, Altschul talks about growing up in the South Bronx; his roots in the tradition and how he uses them even when playing “free”; and how he achieves a personal sound on the drums. Learn more at myspace.com/barryaltschul.

Drummer Deric Dickens’ debut CD is Speed Date, a series of duets with Matt Wilson, Ben Cohen, Jon Crowley, Kirk Knuffke, Jeff Lederer and Jeremy Udden. In this interview, Dickens talks about the DIY philosophy underlying the album; the sound of the drums (including a demonstration on the ride cymbal); and why he left a comfortable position as a band director to pursue a life as a professional jazz musician. Learn more at dericdickens.com and follow him on Twitter at @dericdickens.

Jack DeJohnette’s new album is Sound Travels (Golden Beams/eOne, 2012). In this interview, DeJohnette talks about the next phase of his storied career; his induction as a 2012 NEA Jazz Master; and the multiple projects he’s taking to the Newport Jazz Festival this summer. Learn more at jackdejohnette.com.

I spoke today at the JazzTimes DIY Crash Course in Manhattan, an event held in tandem with the Association of Performing Arts Presenters conference. This is the audio of my presentation, which was about podcasting and telling a story as an artist. There were graphics, too. As soon as I get the video, I’ll pass it along. Thanks to Lee Mergner of JazzTimes for inviting me and thanks to David Lee Joy from All Star Media for providing the audio. Lee Mergner is the first person you’ll hear in this audio clip. Thanks also to the wonderful Amy Cervini for assisting with my presentation.

UPDATE: Here’s video of the first half of my talk. Then my camera battery died. Thanks to Derrick Lucas for filming this. More video may be available later.

Saxophonist Pete Robbins’ new CD is Live In Basel (Hate Laugh Music, 2011) with his Transatlantic Quartet. In this interview, Robbins talks about the benefits of a working band; why his last three recordings have been live albums; and why his next project will find him traveling down yet another new musical road. Learn more at peterobbins.com and follow him on Twitter at @peterobbins.

Saxophonist Michael Pedicin’s new album is Ballads …searching for peace (Jazz Hut, 2011). In this interview, Pedicin talks about this influence of his father on his career; why he feels he had to work his way up to a ballads album; and how he came to terms with his place in the worlds of both jazz and medicine. Learn more at michaelpedicin.com and follow him on Twitter at @mpedicin.

NOTE: I’m reposting this 2009 interview with Sam Rivers to commemorate his passing on Dec. 26, 2011. Nate Chinen has collected many of the remembrances of Rivers on his blog.

Sam Rivers is a musical renaissance man. He’s performed in big bands, bop bands, R&B groups, blues bands and free-jazz ensembles. Rivers is currently composing adventurous large-ensemble music (such as is found on his 2006 CD Aurora) in an unlikely location: Orlando, Florida. In this interview, Rivers talks about his early days in Boston; how he was recruited by Jimi Hendrix while playing with Cecil Taylor; and how a tour with Dizzy Gillespie led to his relocation to Florida. Learn more at rivbea.com.

Pianist Enoch Smith, Jr.’s new album is Misfits (Music4mypeople, 2011). In this interview, Smith talks about growing up in the church in Rochester, NY; how he’s always felt like an outsider in the jazz world; and why he wanted his new record to get back to basics — groove and the voice. Learn more at enochsmithjr.com.

Trombonist James Hirschfeld has just released his first album, Two Medicine. In this interview, Hirschfeld talks about his life in music; the song-like quality of his compositions; and how a trip to Germany solidified his desire to pursue an artistic life. Learn more at jameshirschfeld.com and buy the record via jameshirschfeld.bandcamp.com. Follow him on Twitter at @jameshirschfeld.

Andrew Cyrille’s new CD is Route De Freres (TUM, 2011) with his band Haitian Fascination. In this interview, Cyrille talks about his own Haitian roots and his early childhood in Brooklyn; Haitian rhythms and how they’re expressed on this new record; and the sound paintings that form the main suite, “Route De Freres.”

NOTE: I wrote a poem inspired by Andrew Cyrille’s story. You can read it here.

Adam Schatz is the founder of Search & Restore, which opened its doors in late 2007 and has since become a 501(c)3 non-profit committed to bringing the artists and audiences of new jazz and improvised music together in new ways. In this interview, Schatz talks about the musical components of the organization’s mission and his own pursuits as a performing musician. Learn more about Search & Restore at searchandrestore.com and about their current fundraising efforts at jazz2012.com. The fundraiser runs through Dec. 19, 2011.

NOTE: This interview is a companion piece to my video conversation with Schatz, which you’ll find at JazzDIY’s site, JazzDIY.com.

Michael Bates’s new album is called Acrobat: Music For, And By, Dmitri Shostakovich (Sunnyside, 2011). In this interview, Bates talks about the appeal of Shostakovich the man and the composer; how he used Shostakovich’s music as a starting point for his own compositions and improvisations; and the new trio music he’s been working on. Learn more at outsidesources.org.

Trumpeter Amir ElSaffar’s new CD is Inana (Pi Recordings, 2011). In this interview, ElSaffar explains maqam music and his decision to spend five years studying it in depth; how he plays microtonal music on a standard Bb trumpet; and his particular combination of traditional Arabic music with jazz. Learn more at amirelsaffar.com and follow him on Twitter at @amirelsaffar.

Guitarist Mike Baggetta’s new CD is Source Materials. In this interview, Baggetta talks about his compositional process and how he writes for specific ensembles; his experiments with prepared guitar in both solo and duet formats; and how he approaches playing standards. Learn more at mikebaggetta.com and follow him on Twitter at @mabnotes.

Pianist Joan Stiles’ new CD is Three Musicians, featuring Joel Frahm and Matt Wilson. In this interview, Stiles talks about playing without a bassist; how visual art and music come together in her life; and her collage-based approach to playing standards. Learn more at joanstilesmusic.com.

Trumpeter Tim Hagans’ new CD is The Moon Is Waiting (Palmetto Records, 2011). In this interview, Hagans talks about his special relationship with his drummer of choice; how he worked with a choreographer to write some of the music on the new album; and how he’s evolved over the years as a composer for large and small ensembles. Learn more at timhagans.com.

Vocalist Andrea Wolper’s new CD is Parallel Lives (Jazzed Media, 2011). In this interview, Wolper talks about her unfettered and very personal approach to song choice and performance; how poetry influences her work; and her parallel life as an activist for social justice. Learn more at andreawolper.com and follow her on Twitter at @AndreaWolper.

Pianist Matt Mitchell has been making a name for himself in the bands of Tim Berne, John Hollenbeck and Darius Jones, among others. In this interview, Mitchell talks about finding his place in the bands of composers with strong visions; how a set of self-penned practice pieces became duet performance vehicles; and why he may finally be ready to record his first album. Learn more at mattmitchell.us and follow him on Twitter at @mattmitchellus.

Trumpeter Nicholas Payton’s new CD is Bitches (In+Out Records, 2011). In this interview, Payton talks about his outspoken presence on social media; why he thinks it’s important to bring groove and sensuality back to jazz; and how his New Orleans roots have shaped the way he approaches music and performance. Learn more at nicholaspayton.com and follow him on Twitter at @paynic.

Vocalist and guitarist Camila Meza’s most recent CD is Retrato (Vertice Records, 2009). In this interview, Meza talks about her early days learning guitar in her native Chile; how a teacher discovered she could sing and the effect it had on her life; and how she sometimes feels like two people at once when she plays and sings at the same time. Learn more at camilameza.com.

CONCERT NOTE: Camila Meza performs on 11/1/11 at 8:30 p.m. at Cornelia Street Cafe in New York.

Composer and bandleader Gerald Wilson’s new CD is Legacy (Mack Avenue Records, 2011). This is part two of a two-part conversation. (Listen to Part 1.) In this part, Wilson talks about his time in the Navy during World War II; his subsequent work as an arranger for record labels and Hollywood studios; the development of his own band; and his new CD.

Composer and bandleader Gerald Wilson’s new CD is Legacy (Mack Avenue Records, 2011). This is part one of a two-part conversation. In this episode, Gerald Wilson talks about growing up in the South and listening to music with his brother; his move to Detroit to attend an arts high school; his early days as a professional musician; his time with Jimmie Lunceford and his first arrangements; and the beginning of his time in the Navy. Learn more at mackavenue.com/artists/detail/gerald_wilson/.

Larry Goldings has two new CDs out: In My Room (BFM Jazz, 2011), a solo piano CD, and Live At Smalls (SmallsLive, 2011) with his organ trio featuring Peter Bernstein and Bill Stewart. In this interview, Goldings talks about approaching each piano on its own terms; how he first met Bernstein and Stewart; and his unplanned entry into the bands of Maceo Parker and James Taylor. Learn more at larrygoldings.com and follow him on Twitter at @LarryGoldings.

I was recently interviewed by JazzDIY, a soon-to-be-launched online trade journal for the 21st century jazz musician. You can follow them on Twitter at @JazzDIY and bookmark their site at JazzDIY.com. Actually, I should say “our” site, because right after this interview I agreed to serve as a contributing editor for JazzDIY. We launch on Oct. 17. To tide you over until then, here’s some bonus footage from my five-part video interview.

Andrea Wolper hosts the show and interviews me. Trust me, it was her idea. In this interview, I talk about how I make each episode; why I interview musicians and what about them interests me; and how poetry has become a major part of my life. Learn more at thejazzsession.com and jasoncrane.org.

Pianist Dalton Ridenhour is making his mark on the New York scene by playing ragtime, stride and New-Orleans-style piano. In this interview, Ridenhour talks about his childhood introduction to ragtime; how going to school for jazz changed his approach to the piano; and why, after a three-year hiatus, he’s returned to the styles he loves. Learn more at daltonridenhour.com.

Saxophonist Marcus Strickland’s latest recording is Triumph of the Heavy (Strick Muzik, 2011), a 2-CD set that features a live trio performance and a studio session by his new quartet. In this interview, Strickland talks about why he added piano to his band; his awareness that he’s playing for other people; and the difference between the tunes he writes in the fall and the tunes he writes in the spring. Learn more at marcusstrickland.com and follow him on Twitter at @marcustrickland.

Trumpeter Wadada Leo Smith’s newest album is Heart’s Reflections (Cuneiform Records, 2011). In this interview, he talks about his Ten Freedom Summers project, inspired by the Civil Rights Movement; how each ensemble is a model for a universe; and how meaning is communicated even without words. Learn more at wadadaleosmith.com.

From Camila Meza at Small's Jazz Club

I spent most of the day on the train yesterday, traveling back and forth between NYC and New Haven, CT. By the time I got back home to Brooklyn I was tired and planning to crash for the night. But I decided to see who was playing around town, just in case. I noticed that Chilean vocalist and guitarist Camila Meza was at Small’s Jazz Club. I’d never heard her music so I visited her site, listened to about two minutes of her singing, and hopped back on a train to Manhattan.

From Camila Meza at Small's Jazz Club

Meza has a rich voice that’s playful without being too syrupy. Her repertoire was straight from the Great American Songbook (with the exception of Ibrahim Ferrer’s “Silencio”), but she managed to make the music sound fresh with her obvious enthusiasm and her emotional connection with the songs.

From Camila Meza at Small's Jazz Club

Meza was joined by bassist Pablo Menares, another new-to-me player. Menares was equally skilled at holding down the bottom and making interesting harmonic choices throughout the range of his instrument. And his soloing was melodic and creative.

From Camila Meza at Small's Jazz Club

Meza’s guitar playing was equally impressive — and would have been completely at home in the 1950s. Her solos were fluid and well constructed without falling back on cliches. Several times she doubled her solos with her voice.

From Camila Meza at Small's Jazz Club

For the final song of the night (“But Not For Me”), Meza and Menares were joined by saxophonist Melissa Aldana, who fit perfectly with the old school vibe that was happening on stage. Aldana leads a regular jam session at Cafe Vivaldi and played with Greg Osby in August.

From Camila Meza at Small's Jazz Club

My only request for Meza’s next gig would be more songs in Spanish and from farther afield than the Great American Songbook. She’s playing in Berne, Switzerland for five nights in October, and then at several New York locations later this fall. Go see her.

Drummer Ernesto Cervini’s new CD is There (Anzic Records, 2011), recorded on tour in 2010. In this interview, Cervini talks about the benefits of recording music on tour; his band and why it functions so well as a unit; and why he chose Toronto over New York City several years ago. Learn more at www.ernestocervini.com.

Saxophonist Avram Fefer’s new album is Eliyahu (Not Two, 2011). In this interview, Fefer talks about why this is his happiest sounding album yet; how the loss of his father changed the way he views the music on the album; and the influences of the music of a variety of cultures on his compositions. Learn more at www.avramfefer.com.

From Carmen Staaf at 55 Bar – 9/18/11

I’ve written about Carmen Staff before and told you how impressed I am with her as a pianist. I’ve also interviewed her for The Jazz Session. And last night I had the chance to see her perform in a trio setting at one of my favorite New York music spots, The 55 Bar.

From Carmen Staaf at 55 Bar – 9/18/11

The 55 Bar doesn’t have a piano, so Staaf played a Fender Rhodes, which made for a very different listening experience to the acoustic performance I’d heard previously. The Rhodes is a tricky beast, and the skills necessary to playing the piano don’t necessarily make a successful Rhodes player. Staaf did just fine, though, using the Rhodes to its full capacity and showing the same fluid touch that struck me before.

From Carmen Staaf at 55 Bar – 9/18/11

Staaf was joined by bassist Jorge Roeder and drummer Ronnie Burrage. This was the trio’s first time playing together, and they weren’t ashamed to work some things out on stage, particularly Burrage’s tunes. Burrage spent some time as McCoy’s Tyner’s drummer years ago, and he introduced one of his tunes as one which McCoy has “played the crap out of.” (Eliciting the comment, “No pressure, Carmen,” from one of Staaf’s friends in the audience.) Whether it was the McCoy comparison or just the adrenalin that comes from fighting your way through a brand new tune, Staaf rose to the challenge and delivered a smart and muscular solo that used the full range of the Rhodes.

From Carmen Staaf at 55 Bar – 9/18/11

Another highlight for me was Staaf’s breathtaking “Nymphs of the Milky Way,” which I wrote about when I saw her at Issue Project Room. The piece is gorgeous, and was made more so by Roeder’s sensitive bass work. I’ve seen him in a number of contexts here in New York, and he always knows just how to serve the music.

Here are a few other things I tweeted during the show:

From Carmen Staaf at 55 Bar – 9/18/11

@carmenstaaf trio playing a 3/4 or 6/8 or 150/200 version of “All The Things You Are.” Ronnie Burrage on cajon. (Also note the album cover on the wall with “Carmen” on it. A different Carmen, of course, but still a fun coincidence.)

From Carmen Staaf at 55 Bar – 9/18/11

Very nice 70s vibe by @carmenstaaf trio on “Solar” into Staaf’s “Dream of Four Paths.”

From Carmen Staaf at 55 Bar – 9/18/11

Henry Grimes just showed up at @carmenstaaf’s show. Very, very cool. #jazzlives #sodoeshenry

From Carmen Staaf at 55 Bar – 9/18/11

Nice deconstruction of “In Walked Bud” by @carmenstaaf.

Last night gave me the chance to see a new side of Carmen Staaf and once again I was very happy to be there. Staaf is playing at the 55 Bar at the end of September (watch her site for the exact date). You can also follow her on Twitter at @carmenstaaf. And if you’d like to get my updates and photos as they happen, you can follow me on Twitter at @jasondcrane.

Bassist Chris Tarry has just released Rest of the Story, an ambitious project that combines an album of new music with a collection of his short fiction. In this interview, Tarry talks about creating in two very different worlds; how we was able to move from concept to creation of this large work; and why he feels that his writing informs his music more than the other way around. Learn more at www.christarry.com.

From Dalton Ridenhour & Friends at Small's – 9/15/11

I met pianist Dalton Ridenhour through a mutual friend a couple weeks ago. As soon as he told me he played stride piano, I asked him to make sure to let me know when he was playing. I happened to be in town for tonight’s gig and had a chance to see Dalton — and some friends — take the crowd at Small’s on a tour through jazz piano history.

From Dalton Ridenhour & Friends at Small's – 9/15/11

Ridenhour has a great ear for melodies. He mostly played immediately recognizable tunes — “Maple Leaf Rag,” “Do You Know What It Means To Miss New Orleans?” or “Alberta, Alberta” — but he sprinkled in some pieces that were new to me such as “Cryin’ For The Carolines” and a James P. Johnson tune that I think was called “Riffs.” Throughout the set, Ridenhour showed not only a mastery of the piano, but a real sense for pacing and flow and for the general shape of a song. His improvisations were fluid and interesting, which was particularly impressive given the harmonic and rhythmic rules imposed by the genre.

From Dalton Ridenhour & Friends at Small's – 9/15/11

Twice during the set, Ridenhour featured vocalist Mara Kaye, who belted out “Sugar In My Bowl” and “Any Kind of Man” and slunk her way through “Baby Won’t You Please Come Home.” She had a strong and very anachronistic voice that perfectly fit the music. (Although it was sometimes a little more than the sound system could handle.) She’s definitely someone I’ll watch for around her native Brooklyn.

From Dalton Ridenhour & Friends at Small's – 9/15/11

Trombonist Dan Reitz was a nice addition to two of the last three tunes.

From Dalton Ridenhour & Friends at Small's – 9/15/11

Ridenhour is a talented player. I’ll be seeing him again. If you’d like to be transported back in time to hear piano music from a bygone — but still very fresh and alive — age, you should see him, too.

From Dalton Ridenhour & Friends at Small's – 9/15/11

From Dalton Ridenhour & Friends at Small's – 9/15/11

From Dalton Ridenhour & Friends at Small's – 9/15/11

The Respect Sextet is celebrating 10 years together. In this interview, the band looks back on a decade of performing and recording since they formed at the Eastman School of Music in Rochester, NY. They take us on a tour through their recordings and give us a glimpse of what’s to come. Learn more at respectsextet.com.

Concert note: The Respect Sextet is playing two New York shows in the coming weeks. Tomorrow (9/16/11) at The Stone and then their 10th anniversary show at Le Poisson Rouge on October 11, 2011.

Special for The Jazz Session‘s listeners: Now through October 11, visit respectsextet.bandcamp.com and use the code “tjs” to get 50% off your purchase.

After putting his trumpet in the closet for several years, guitarist and trumpeter Rhys Chatham returns to the instrument in a new way on Outdoor Spell (Northern Spy Records, 2011). In this interview, Chatham talks about going back to the trumpet but playing it with fewer effects; how his attendance at a 1976 Ramones show altered the course of his musical life; and how his music has evolved over time while retaining a distinctive compositional identity. Learn more at www.rhyschatham.net.

NOTE: Chatham has a series of European shows over the coming weeks. His tour schedule is available on his web site.

“The Jazz Session is the best independent jazz podcast out there.” — Darcy James Argue

“Jason Crane is a hipster of the highest order. A super sonic solid sender cat daddy perched upon the monumental peak of groovy. Dig?” — Matt Wilson

The Jazz Session is a member-supported online interview show focusing on in-depth conversations with jazz musicians. The show is hosted by Jason Crane.

Since its inception in 2007, there have been more than 1.4 million downloads of The Jazz Session‘s 300+ episodes. The Jazz Session focuses on in-depth interviews with jazz musicians, along with occasional interviews with producers, authors and others in the jazz world. The show’s mission is to chronicle the lives and opinions of musicians who make creative improvised music, without regard to artificial genres or labels.

Every episode of the show is available here at thejazzsession.com for free. You’ll find the guests listed alphabetically along the left side of the page. You can also search by instrument using the category menu immediately below the list of names. And you can subscribe for free via iTunes or an RSS reader.

To get started, choose a musician from the menu on the left or simply scroll down on this page to see the latest episodes.

The Jazz Session only survives because of the support of its members. Please become a member today.

Italian guitarist Marco Cappelli’s new DVD is In The Shadow Of No Towers, a multimedia project exploring September 11 and its aftermath. The project features an animated graphic novel by artist Art Spiegelman (Maus) and narration by actor John Turturro. In this interview, Cappelli talks about how this remarkable project came to exist; the interesting history of the band that made the music for the DVD; and how he came to play his current modified guitar. Also featured in this interview is music from Cappelli’s trio recording Les Nuages En France. Learn more at www.marcocappelli.com.

Tonight, after 12 hours of travel from Detroit to New York City, I decided to head back out in the rain to Korzo to see a solo set by pianist Matt Mitchell and a duo set by Matt and drummer Ches Smith. It proved to be a very good choice on my part, as it was an evening of music unlike I’ve heard before and played at the highest level.

From Matt Mitchell & Ches Smith at Korzo – 6 Sept 2011

Matt Mitchell said he’d never played tonight’s compositions in public. In fact, he said he’d never intended to play the music in the second set until Ches offered to learn it. At one point Matt turned to the audience and said, “I’d like to publicly thank Ches Smith for learning this fucking music.” We’re all lucky that happened.

From Matt Mitchell & Ches Smith at Korzo – 6 Sept 2011

The opening solo set was very, very intense. I don’t know if it was compounded by fatigue or a lack of food, but at one point I wrote a note to the friend who was with me that read, “This is making me sad/agitated.” That’s not a criticism. In fact, it’s a compliment. Music that causes an emotional reaction is my favorite kind of music. My friend responded by saying that it made her feel like breaking all the glasses in the restaurant. Sadly, she didn’t act on that feeling.

Another friend who was there described the pieces as “etudes,” which is apt. The compositions were a series of small, gem-like studies surrounded by layer upon layer of jagged, imaginative improvisation. Having never heard any of them before, I had no idea which bits were written and which improvised, and my guess is that Mitchell intended for that to be the case.

From Matt Mitchell & Ches Smith at Korzo – 6 Sept 2011

The addition of drummer Ches Smith took the agitated onslaught of the first set and hardened it into a precise chaos of pointed rhythms and surprising melodic invention. I think that sentence is probably crap, but I’m having some trouble telling you what I heard. I’ll just leave off by saying what I said on Twitter: “That was a hell of a show. If you missed Matt Mitchell and Ches Smith tonight, you really did miss something.”

From Matt Mitchell & Ches Smith at Korzo – 6 Sept 2011

p.s. — I also wrote a poem at the show.

I think I’ve talked about the weather in all four of these reports from the Detroit Jazz Festival. That’s because the weather has been crazy. Mid-90s on the first two days. Then big thunderstorms and lots of rain. And today it was cold enough that I was blowing on my hands to keep them warm and actually having trouble tweeting because my thumbs were cold. Oh, the humanity!

I saw a lot of good music today. I’m heading back to New York in the morning, where I do this kind of thing quite often from NYC clubs. (And I also interview people, which is the main point of this site. Look to the left for the list of past guests.) You can follow me on Twitter at @jasondcrane.

PRE-SHOW THOUGHTS
Looking forward to seeing @anthony__wilson live today for what I think is the first time. Hard to believe, but I think it’s true.
Wine lovers: Pls recommend good wines to hurl at @anthony__wilson while he performs. That’s jazz etiquette, right? Or maybe Blues Bros?
When I arrived at #DJ2011 on Friday it was 94 degrees. Right now, on the final day, it’s 60 degrees. Luckily I brought my snowsuit.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

Eating falafel while Gary Burton’s New Quartet plays “Afro Blue” on the stage below me.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

Burton band now playing bassist Scott Colley’s “Never The Same Way.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

Both Gary Burton and bandmate Julian Lage have been on The Jazz Session. (Listen: Burton (2009), Lage (2009) and Lage (2011).)

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

Gary Burton and Julian Lage snaking their way through “I Hear A Rhapsody.”
Ah, trading fours. How I’ve (not particularly) missed you.
Now some flashes of the countrified groove Gary Burton used to play back in the 70s.
In my opinion, it’s nearly impossible to not channel Pat Metheny while playing this music.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

Wow. Didn’t know this @anthony__wilson set was going to be an organ trio. Love it.
The trio is @anthony__Wilson, Larry Goldings and Karriem Riggins. What more do you need? And the sun just came out.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

This @anthony__wilson trio is down, dirty and fun as hell.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

Guy behind me just yelled, “Damn, baby, you’re in the pocket!” at @anthony__wilson.
Loving this mystical transition between songs.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

If a fiery beast burst forth from the stage right now, this music would be the perfect accompaniment.
Following that hellfire and brimstone tune, @anthony__wilson starts into “Body And Soul.” Which is actually a pretty good joke.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

@anthony__wilson now playing the title track from his gorgeous CD Campo Belo.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

Checking out @ChampianFulton and some slow-as-it-wants-to-be speakesy swing.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

Can’t hear this performance of “Tenderly” by @ChampianFulton without thinking of Nat Cole. Right, @carmenstaaf?
Also Nat-Cole-esque is @ChampianFulton’s position at the piano and ability to sing, play and smile at the crowd all at once.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

@ChampianFulton now cruising through an up-tempo take on “Samba de Orfeu,” dedicated to family friend Clark Terry.
Just learned that @ChampianFulton’s drummer is Pete Zimmer, who’s been on The Jazz Session. http://bit.ly/ofH9sT.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

At Camptius Martius with @Mark_Stryker to see Karriem Riggins and Common.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

Karriem Riggins’ band would be perfect for Gil Scott-Heron. I’m excited to hear Common with them.
Two hours ago, Karriem Riggins was playing “Body And Soul.” A man of many parts.
Trumpeter Nicholas Payton chimed in to say: Man, @KarriemRiggins is like Aquaman. He belongs to both land and sea thus belonging to neither.
Karriem Riggins is wearing a bow tie. ‘Cause they’re cool.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

Roger Jones repping Flint on Fender Rhodes with @karriemriggins at #DJF2011. cc @MMFlint

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

“You see white people with soul in Detroit, too. That’s how much soul y’all got.” Common at #DJF2011

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

@Common with @KarriemRiggins. #DJF2011

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival Day 4

Digging @Common at Detroit’s Winter Jazz Fest.

There was a bit more rain today for the third day of the Detroit Jazz Festival, but by and large the day went off without a hitch and the streets were once again packed with happy music lovers. The standout set for me today was Anat Cohen’s quartet, followed closely by Vinicius Cantauria’s band on the same stage. Remember, to get my tweets in real time, please follow me on Twitter at @jasondcrane and follow the hashtag #DJF2011.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Spotted this and thought it was nice of someone to leave it there in case the baby comes back.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Joe Locke now playing with the Airmen of Note
Another jazz media guy just told me that this Airmen of Note set with Joe Locke will be released as part of a 3-CD set next year.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Leader of the Airmen of Note is Sgt. Joe Jackson. #steppinout
The Airmen of Locke playing an arrangement of “El Gaucho” that Joe wrote for Gary Burton and the Scottish Natl Jazz Orch.

ANOTHER BIG CROWD

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

New-to-me Detroit pianist Keith Vreeland’s band is cooking in a late-60s fashion. Nice flute/soprano sax front line.
“Really enjoying the drive of Vreeland’s drummer.” (Jazz writer Mark Stryker later told me the drummer was Renell Gonsalves.)
The “Absopure Pyramid Stage” sounds like something from Logan’s Run.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

“…then a funk thing, and we’ll play it until we’re done.” Keith Vreeland’s announcement before the final two tunes.
Lots of odd-metered funk at #DJF2011. #hollandstyle last night, #vreelandstyle right now.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Now it’s Amina Figarova’s sextet. Flute/trumpet/tenor plus rhythm section. Music from her album Sketches.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Amina Figarova now playing her post-Katrina tune “Back In New Orleans.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Heading over to see Anat Cohen.
Jason Lindner has the most interesting tiny back-of-head blue mohawk.
Anat’s band is Jason Lindner, Joe Martin and Daniel Friedman.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

I enjoy watching @Anat_Cohen wait for the perfect moment to play almost as much as I enjoy watching her play.
I find @Anat_Cohen incredibly compelling. She’s such a force, musically and in terms of her personality.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Jason Lindner is such a fiercely exploratory player. Driving, questioning, unrelenting. Love him.
Via pianist Geoffrey Keezer (@88Keezer): “Jason Lindner is badass. 1 of my fave keyboard players.” To which I replied: Cosign. First heard him w/ Claudia Acuna 10 yrs ago. He keeps growing.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

We’re immediately back in the 60s as @Anat_Cohen switches to soprano for (I think) a classic Brazillian tune.
1.5 tunes in and this is easily my favorite set of the day.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Jason Lindner, people. Get religion.
Holy Christ. Lindner just destroyed this place. I may need to go lie down.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Lindner and Friedman look like they’re reading one another’s thoughts. They sound that way, too.
Anat just gave a shoutout to Paquito D’Rivera, also playing tonight. Said he’s one of the people who inspired her to play clarinet.
Thinking Lindner and Friedman may be part of an alien race who communicate using only their eyes. Amazingly in sync.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Swing music as heard while traveling in the TARDIS.
Anat Cohen closing the set with Daniel Friedman’s anthem “All Brothers.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Totally buzzing after @Anat_Cohen’s set. Brilliant. Just brilliant.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Vinicius Cantuaria now taking the stage.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Finally, someone playing a laptop and sampler at #DJF2011. With Vinicius Cantuaria.
Guy is quadrupling on laptop, sampler, piano and trumpet.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Thus far, this set by Vinicius Cantuaria is all about space and how much of it can exist without the song falling apart.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Feels like the crowd is holding its breath.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

I wish I could tweet you the afternoon sunlight and the cool air and the swaying crowd.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Off to get my dance on with Sammy Figueroa.
There’s a dance floor up front at Sammy Figueroa’s show and several people are dancing.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

The montuno reigns in Campus Martius park.
Dance floor is packed at Sammy Figueroa’s show. Sabroso!
Sammy just yelled “Sabroso!” Yes, I’m psychic.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Sammy Figueroa wears his sunglasses at night. So he can…so he can…

STREET INTERLUDE

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Just heard an elderly guitar player on a street corner recite the opening poem from Days Of Future Passed.
Feeling a lot of civic pride … and this is my first time in Detroit. Well done, #DJF2011.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

The Jeff “Tain” Watts Quartet with Slash, Snooki and Barry Manilow is gonna be killin’ tonight!
Now at the amphitheater for Tain’s band. Apparently he had to get subs for Snooki, Slash and Manilow.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Marcus Strickland sounds like a summer storm.
I’d watch Jeff Watts play in a silent film. Love looking at him.
There’s a woman up front at Tain’s show who is chair-dancing her ass off. And just as typed that, they put her on the jumbotron.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Heading over to see @vijayiyer in a few minutes. I think that may do it for me tonight.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

There is a brain-melting buzzing noise coming from the PA at Vijay Iyer’s set. Hope someone figures that out quickly.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

God I adore Stephan Crump.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

Both @vijayiyer http://bit.ly/e47hl and Stephan Crump http://bit.ly/cJ2yaW have been on The Jazz Session
Very intense lighting for Vijay’s show. Feel like someone is going to ask where I was on the night of…

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 3

@vijayiyer trio now playing Threadgill’s “Little Pocket-Sized Demons.”

It was crazy hot in Detroit today, but the streets and seats were still packed with happy festival fans who listened attentively when that was called for and danced in the aisles sometimes, too. A series of thunderstorms led to the evening acts being either cancelled or moved into the Marriott hotel. That didn’t dampen anyone’s spirits, though, as the music continued into the night while the lightning flashed outside. Here are my photos and tweets from Day 2. To get these in real time, follow me on Twitter at @jasondcrane and also follow the hashtag #DJF2011.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“Checking out vibraphonist Warren Wolf’s surging WOLFPAC. I could easily take this guy in a fight.”
“By the way, WOLFPAC is not, so far as I know, the name of Warren Wolf’s political action committee.”
“Getting a very ‘Keith Jarrett & Gary Burton’ feeling from this piano-vibes duo with Warren Wolf.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“Just noticed Joe Locke in the wings watching Warren Wolf. #vibescommunity”
“Now a quartet ballad by Warren Wolf. By the way, the pianist is Lawrence Fields. Sorry if I misspelled his name.”
“Loving Warren Wolf’s ballad playing. Flowing like the Detroit River, which is just a few feet away.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“Now listening the gorgeous symbiosis of vocalist Luciana Souza and guitarist Romero Lubambo playing ‘Dindi.’”
If I’m about to die by spontaneously combusting in the heat, I’m glad Luciana and Romero will be the last thing I hear.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“Souza and Romero are just overflowing with joy and mutual respect. God they’re good.”
“Romero Lubambo just said he loves Luciana Souza’s singing so much that she made him cry during their pre-gig rehearsal.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“I’d like to go through life with Souza and Rubambo walking next to me, playing”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“So much spontaneous cheering from this slowly roasting crowd. They’re in love with Luciana and Romero.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“Curtis Fuller Sextet starting soon”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“Curtis Fuller born in 1934 at Herman Keefer (sp?) in Detroit. Now receiving the Detroit Guardian award.”
“Good players in Curtis Fuller’s band. I’m just not a fan of the ‘everybody solos’ format in most cases. I know, I know.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“Mike Ledonne, Nat Reeves, Carl Allen are Curtis Fuller’s rhythm section. Next tune: ‘Up Jumped Spring’”
“Curtis Fuller joined in the front line by Josh Bruno on trumpet/flugel and saxophonist Eric Alexander.”

SEGWAY SEGUE

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“Soul Rebels crushing Stevie Wonder’s ‘Livin’ For The City.’ Now we’re talking.”
“I know I say this all the time, but somebody remind me why I don’t live in New Orleans.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“Soul Rebels now crushing MJ’s ‘Rock With You.’ Damn.”
“Sousaphone.”

HOT CROWD

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“Now Sean Jones, Orrin Evans, Obed Calvaire, Luques Curtis, Brian Hogans.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“Haven’t seen Sean Jones in years and years. He sounds great and the band is really tight.”
“Tonight on this same stage: the Sun Ra Arkestra then Dave Holland. There’s a small (read: 100%) chance that I’ll be here.”

COUPLA GUYS

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

THE STORM
“Break time is over. Heading back to #DJF2011 for Sun Ra, Jason Moran and Dave Holland. It’s a tough job.”
“Wind is really picking up and I see there’s a severe thunderstorm warning for Detroit. 70% chance of rain. Hmmm…”
“And there’s the lightning and thunder. I do believe there’s another episode of Doctor Who in my immediate future.”
“From my hotel window I can see whitecaps on the Detroit River. And also, sadly, Ceasar’s casino in Windsor, ON.”
“Here’s that rainy, er, night. And I can no longer see most of Windsor from the window.”
“Wow. This is one hell of storm. I can see about 100 yards out my window. Just to the edge of the Detroit River.”
“According to the radar, looks like there’s quite a bit of rain still coming at us.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“No electricty on main stage, but the Arkestra is still playing.”

THAT’S ALL, FOLKS … OR IS IT?
“It’s official: Detroit Jazz Fest cancelled for rest of night.”
“Walked back to the hotel with Jason Moran and his kids. He asked me to tweet his disappointment at not getting to play for us.”
“ALERT! 1.Jason Moran 9:30pm 2.Dave Holland Octet 10:30pm 3.Deacon Jones Blues Revue 11:30pm. Volt Lounge, Marriott, 3rd fl.”
“No Jason Moran tonight. Dave Holland in 15 minutes. Moran ‘not feeling it,’ according to WEMU’s Linda Yohn.”

VIDEO FROM THE VOLT LOUNGE

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“My friends and I said we ain’t leaving Detroit until we play some music for you guys.” – Dave Holland. Hero.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“Lightning flashing outside, but the real storm is inside.”
“Gary Smulyan ripping the air with his bari sax. Now Steve Nelson rides the lightning.”
“Thank you, thunderstorm. People need life – and music – to take a left turn from time to time.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“The crowd is going apeshit for Dave Holland. Technically speaking.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“Dave Holland is not fakin’ the funk. It may be in an odd meter, but it’s real.”
“Antonio Hart is making it happen with Dave Holland right now.”
“If James Brown had been born with one leg shorter than the other, this is the funk he would have made. #hollandstyle”
“Antonio Hart has this crowd in the palm of his hand.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“Mass orgasm now happening in the Volt Lounge. Hide the children. #DJF2011 #toofar?”
“Nate Smith is the truth.”
“The Dave Holland Brass Band, Street Choir And Funk Machine.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“Now a softer piece. Chris Potter’s ‘Sea of Marmara.’”
“Chris Potter exploring on soprano sax over the rhythm section.”
“There are people on the walkway outside the Volt Lounge windows, watching the show. It appears to be raining on them.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“This band has such a L A R G E sound. Very rich and deep.”
“Robin Eubanks soloing on ‘Ebb & Flow.’ I believe this piece is in 179/4. But I may have counted the beat wrong.”
“Chris Potter crushing a solo in about 19 different time signatures.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“These guys are terrible. Jazz sucks. Just ask the crowd of screaming people in this hotel bar.”
“Perhaps on Dave Holland’s planet, this is a common time signature. Or else he has eleven fingers?”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 2

“Ladies and gentlemen, the next mayor of the great city of Detroit … Dave Holland.”
“Lots of music still to come at Volt, but I’m going to end my night on the high of that Dave Holland show.”

After years of being invited and not being able to make it, I’m finally here at what radio guru Bobby Jackson calls “Jazz Disneyland.” I slept just 90 minutes the night (morning, really) before coming, because I was out till very late at the Tiny Resistors gig at 55 Bar. I tell you that to excuse my early departure from the festivities tonight. But I managed to see (and tweet about) quite a lot of music. If you’d like to receive my updates as they happen, please follow me on Twitter at @jasondcrane and also the hashtag #detroitjazz. You should also follow Josh Jackson at @checkoutjazz and Mark Stryker at @Mark_Stryker.

Without further ado, here are some photos and tweets from the opening night of the 2011 Detroit Jazz Festival.

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 1

“Tain Watts and his drum club are rollicking and thundering here in Campus Martius park”
“Asked a security guard for directions to Campus Martius Park. He knew the part of Roman history that led to its name. Cool.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 1

“Tain playing some Tainpani. Sorry.”
“Two sets of vibes. Tympani. Congas. Drum set. Yes please. #detroitjazz #tainpocalypse”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 1

“There are A LOT of people here. And they’re happy. Jazz don’t suck.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 1

“Nice to see Joe Locke still has a painting of an elderly version of himself in his attic. #detroitjazz #dorianlocke”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 1

“This is like a dance rhythm for people with three legs of varying lengths.”
“Came all the way to #detroitjazz to hear Tain Watts play a song about a rainy day in Brooklyn.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 1

“Drummer Tony Allen now joining the #tainpocalypse”
“I’m a sucker for the funk. Always have been, always will be.”
“‘The drums will bring your rain man home.’ – cameraman to me, moments ago.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 1

“Amazing how this many percussionists can remain so unclouded. FOUR drum sets, congas, vibes. Crystal clear rhythmic intention.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 1

“Guy in food line to panhandler who asked for sandwich: ‘I’ll give you $2, but you gotta spread your hustle.’ #usa”
“Just ate a bucket of grease disguised as french fries. The #vegan street food is a little sparse. Although there was free hummus earlier.”
”

VIDEO:

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 1

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 1

“Marvin Gaye’s Trouble Man soundtrack sounds so sweet on this summer night in Detroit.”
“Thousands of people on the streets at #detroitjazz. Still fewer jazz hats than Brooklyn.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 1

“Starting now at #detroitjazz: Sing The Truth! with Dianne Reeves, Angelique Kidjo and Lizz Wright.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 1

“Lizz Wright IS charisma.”
“If anything, I think the crowd has grown for the late set at #detroitjazz. Tons of people in the streets.”

From 2011 Detroit Jazz Fest Day 1

“Packing it in. Must sleep. 90 minutes last night. Need more tonight. Good night, #detroitjazz.”

Guitarist Gilad Hekselman’s new album is Hearts Wide Open (Le Chant du Monde, 2011). In this interview, Hekselman talks about expressing his emotions through music; his musical upbringing in Israel; and how he uses interesting rhythmic devices in his compositions. Learn more at www.giladhekselman.com and follow him on Twitter at @GiladHekselman.

Trumpeter Ben Syversen’s most recent record is Cracked Vessel (2010). In this interview, Syversen talks about the wealth of inspiration available in New York; how authors such as Roberto Bolagno have influenced his music; and why it’s important for him to write for specific musicians. Learn more at bensyversen.com and follow him on Twitter at @bensyversen.

I’m a big fan of a podcast called The Field Negro Guide To Arts & Culture, hosted by guitarist Vernon Reid and comedian W. Kamau Bell. I like smart people anyway, but these two guys are particularly inspiring on a variety of topics both in — and far beyond — their chosen fields. So I was thrilled when I saw that their Producer Extraordinaire, Alex Thornton, posted this on their site. Thanks, guys.

By the way, you can follow all three members of the FNGTAC crew on Twitter:

• W Kamau Bell: @wkamaubell
• Vernon Reid: @vurnt22
• Alex Thornton: @agthornton

Pianist Carmen Staaf’s most recent CD is a trio recording called Eye To Eye (2011). In this interview, Staaf talks about duo and trio playing; her travels to India; and how her music has been affected by everything from anthropology to meditation. Learn more at www.carmenstaaf.com and follow her on Twitter at @carmenstaaf.

Earlier today I started tweeting a series of snarky tips for musicians and music industry folks. They were retweeted quite a bit, so I decided to collect them all here. You can follow me on Twitter at @jasondcrane. Enjoy!

• Every time your web site begins playing music automatically, a puppy spontaneously combusts.
• Every time someone is forced to visit myspace to learn more about your music, a baby seal falls into a meat grinder.
• If you’re an active musician whose web site was last updated a few months ago, you’re causing global warming.
• Every time you send out a promo CD with no track titles or musician names, a butterfly flaps its wings and they fall off.
• Every time someone visits your gig calendar and finds it was last updated in 2009, Dick Cheney shoots a guy in the face.
• Every time your bio lists your “forthcoming CD” as one that came out 3 years ago, George W. Bush chops down a redwood.
• Every time you make me type your CD details into my music software because you forgot, Donald Rumsfeld has an orgasm.
• Every time you put a comment form rather than your email address on your web site, an old person loses their health care.
• Every time your bio is a long list of the people you’ve “shared the stage with,” more oil spills into the Gulf of Mexico.
• Musicians: If you have a Twitter account & haven’t tweeted in weeks or months, you don’t have a Twitter account.

Bassist Ron Carter’s 1973 CTI recording All Blues has just been reissued. In this interview, Carter talks about the making of the album and how he chose the band; why he thinks jazz schools need a broader vision; and why he supports labor unions. Learn more at roncarter.net.

I headed to Goodbye Blue Monday in Bushwyck, Brooklyn, to see guitarist Nico Soffiato as part of his monthly residency there. He plays on the third Saturday of every month, usually with his trio plus a special guest. This month’s guest was saxophonist Noah Kaplan. Nico has been my guest on The Jazz Session.

Here are my photos and tweets from the show. If you’d like to get these photos and tweets as they’re happening, follow me on Twitter.

From Nico Soffiato at Goodbye Blue Monday – August 2011

“Nico Soffiato’s band exploring the jagged edge at Goodbye Blue Monday”

From Nico Soffiato at Goodbye Blue Monday – August 2011

Nico Soffiato plays as vocalist Rosalie Kaplan looks on. She and saxophonist Noah Kaplan are in the band dollshot together.

From Nico Soffiato at Goodbye Blue Monday – August 2011

“Really enjoyed Nico Soffiato’s set at Goodbye Blue Monday. He’s got a great ear for experimenting with guitar sounds”

From Nico Soffiato at Goodbye Blue Monday – August 2011

“Skronk jazz from Noah Kaplan and Nico Soffiato”

From Nico Soffiato at Goodbye Blue Monday – August 2011

“I’m impressed with how often Nico Soffiato lays out, even at his own gig. Serve the music first.”

I went to The Local 269 on Houston Street recently to see an evening of adventurous music. I was there for two of the four bands — The Hands Down (with Jessica Lurie, Ben Syversen, Brian Drye, Michael Bates and Sean Dixon) and Baudolino’s Dilemna (with Ken Filiano, Stephen Haynes, Warren Smith and Michael TA Thompson). Both bands were excellent, and Stephen Haynes in particular blew me away. I’ve interviewed three of the performers from the two bands: Brian Drye, Ken Filiano and Stephen Haynes. Ben Syversen will be my guest on August 29.

The Hands Down

From The Hands Down and Baudolino's Dilemna at The Local 269

From The Hands Down and Baudolino's Dilemna at The Local 269

From The Hands Down and Baudolino's Dilemna at The Local 269

From The Hands Down and Baudolino's Dilemna at The Local 269

Baudolino’s Dilemna

From The Hands Down and Baudolino's Dilemna at The Local 269

From The Hands Down and Baudolino's Dilemna at The Local 269

From The Hands Down and Baudolino's Dilemna at The Local 269

From The Hands Down and Baudolino's Dilemna at The Local 269

From The Hands Down and Baudolino's Dilemna at The Local 269

And here’s what it looked like outside when I left.

I always enjoy hearing Amy Cervini sing. First of all, she’s got a fantastic voice and she knows how to use it. She’s also totally unashamed to sing the music she loves. And she hires great musicians. All those things were in sharp focus recently during her show at the 55 Bar in NYC, where her Jazz Country project played. The band this time featured Matt Aronoff on bass and Jesse Lewis on guitar. I wrote a poem inspired by the show and also took photos and sent out tweets. If you want to get these tweets and photos while the shows are happening, follow me on Twitter. Enjoy!

From Amy Cervini at 55 Bar – August 2011

” inventive, charming, joyous”

From Amy Cervini at 55 Bar – August 2011

From Amy Cervini at 55 Bar – August 2011

“Jesse Lewis is channeling David Gilmour on a gorgeous version of ‘Calling You’ from Baghdad Cafe”

From Amy Cervini at 55 Bar – August 2011

“King Cole Trio vibe now with a swinging version of ‘Frim Fram Sauce’”

Renée Yoxon is a vocalist from Ottawa, Ontario. Her debut recording, Let’s Call It A Day, is a duet album with guitarist René Gely. In this interview, Yoxon talks about the jazz scene in Ottawa; how she started singing standards and why she still does; and how her science background has influenced the way she approaches the physicality of singing. Learn more at www.reneeyoxon.com and follow her on Twitter at @reneeyoxon.

Pianist and keyboardist Jamie Saft explores his love for reggae, dub and improvisation on New Zion Trio (Veal Records, 2011). In this interview, Saft talks about the merger of those disparate musical elements; why he doesn’t write music on paper; and why he’d rather hear Slayer than “Stella By Starlight.” Learn more at www.jamiesaft.com.

From Carmen Staaf and Kendall Eddy at ibeam (Aug 13, 2011)

On Saturday (August 13, 2011) I headed to ibeam here in Brooklyn for a duo performance by two musicians I’d never seen live — pianist Carmen Staaf and bassist Kendall Eddy. I’d heard a bit of Staaf’s work online (and knew her a bit via social media), but I didn’t really know what to expect.

In a phrase: I was extremely impressed.

Staaf is an incredibly melodic player whose technique is so solid that she can effortlessly execute whatever comes to mind, a talent she displayed on uptempo bop tunes and her own contemplative compositions. Eddy was a great foil for Staaf. He’s a sensitive player with great fluidity over the entire range of the bass. A solid arco player, too.

The whole program was strong and enjoyable, with the two standouts for me being Staaf’s composition “Nymphs of the Milky Way” and their lush rendition of the Cuban classic “Los Tres Golpes.”

Here are my photos and tweets from the gig. If you’d like to get this content while it’s happening, follow me on twitter at @jasondcrane. And please visit the online homes of Carmen Staaf and Kendall Eddy.

From Carmen Staaf and Kendall Eddy at ibeam (Aug 13, 2011)

“Look out! Some serious Cuban piano happening right now with @carmenstaaf – and they’re still just warming up! #cachao”

From Carmen Staaf and Kendall Eddy at ibeam (Aug 13, 2011)

“Really clever reworking (or maybe contrafact) of a Monk tune by @carmenstaaf”

From Carmen Staaf and Kendall Eddy at ibeam (Aug 13, 2011)

“Kendall Eddy channeling Cachao”

From Carmen Staaf and Kendall Eddy at ibeam (Aug 13, 2011)

“@carmenstaaf’s ‘Nymphs of the Milky Way’ was gorgeous. She’s such a melodic writer and improviser.”

From Carmen Staaf and Kendall Eddy at ibeam (Aug 13, 2011)

From Carmen Staaf and Kendall Eddy at ibeam (Aug 13, 2011)

“Now into ‘Gone With The Wind.’ Quite a switch”
“Now onto a Kenny Wheeler tune. I think.”
“Closing out with some bop.”

From Carmen Staaf and Kendall Eddy at ibeam (Aug 13, 2011)

From Carmen Staaf and Kendall Eddy at ibeam (Aug 13, 2011)

“They had one more in them. A lovely, contrapuntal version of ‘All The Things You Are.’”

We made the goal just before 2 p.m. ET. What can I say? I’m humbled and amazed. These last 24 hours have seen such a huge outpouring of support for this program. Here they are: The Jazz Session 100.

Thank you.

Jason Crane

P.S. — I can always use more members, so please keep spreading the word. You can join here.

For The Jazz Session’s 300th episode, a rare chance to sit down with four musical veterans: David S. Ware, William Parker, Cooper-Moore and Muhammad Ali. The four have just released Planetary Unknown (Aum Fidelity, 2011). This interview was recorded in the dressing room just after their performance at the 2011 Vision Festival. In this interview, they talk about the spiritual side of music; give advice to young musicians; and tell stories from their 100+ years as performers. Learn more at Aum Fidelity’s Planetary Unknown page.

NOTE: Today (August 11, 2011) is the final day of the “100 By 300″ membership campaign and I haven’t quite reached my goal. Please support the show by joining today for as little as $10 a month.

Tracks used in this episode: Passage Wudang; Shift; Duality Is One; Divination; Crystal Palace; Ancestry Supramental.

Three of the four members of this band have been on The Jazz Session before:

• Cooper-Moore
• William Parker
• David S. Ware

The last time I saw saxophonist David Binney‘s band at the 55 Bar in NYC, I made the mistake of getting there at 10:30 for a 10:15 set, which meant I was so far back I was almost outside on the sidewalk. That’s because Binney packs the place every time he plays. (David was on The Jazz Session earlier this year. Listen to the interview.)

From David Binney at 55 Bar – 8/9/11

Tonight I was smarter and got there in plenty of time to get a seat right next to the band. They did not disappoint. Binney was joined by Dan Weiss on drums, Eivind Opsvik on bass and Jacob Sacks on Fender Rhodes. It was a fantastic show and I had a front row seat. Here are some of my photos and tweets from the evening. If you’d like to get this content while I’m tweeting it, just follow me on Twitter at @jasondcrane. (P.S. — Thank you to the wonderful server at 55 Bar who charged my phone and thus allowed this post to exist. I don’t know your name but you’re fantastic!)

From David Binney at 55 Bar – 8/9/11

“@davidbinney notes: DB’s band started at a level of intensity at which most bands end their shows. A whirlwind.”
“Dan Weiss is wearing a shirt that says I Hate Mayonnaise.”
“Jacob Sacks is a very impressive Rhodes player who looks like Geddy Lee.”

From David Binney at 55 Bar – 8/9/11

“Eivind Opsvik’s groove is why the word ‘deep’ exists.”

From David Binney at 55 Bar – 8/9/11

“I love David’s sound. Like a sword wrapped in silk.”

From David Binney at 55 Bar – 8/9/11

“Very intense unaccompanied saxophone solo”
“@davidbinney is driving a steamroller into a crowded mall right now.”

From David Binney at 55 Bar – 8/9/11

“rhythm section stretching out”

From David Binney at 55 Bar – 8/9/11

“Zero pretense. Everything is in service of the music.”
“Dan Weiss. Goddamn.”

Tyshawn Sorey is a forward-looking, broad-thinking player and composer who refuses to be categorized. In this interview, he talks about his use of silence; interesting ways to set up the drums; and perceptions of African-American composers. Learn more at http://www.tyshawnsorey.net/.

Tracks used in this episode: (from Koan) Awakening; (from Paradoxical Frog) Homograph; (from Koan) Only One Sky; (from That/Not) That’s Blues, Right; Permutations For Solo Piano; (from Koan) Embed.

Saxophonist Ingrid Laubrock’s most recent album is The Madness Of Crowds (Intakt, 2011) with the band Sleepthief. She’s also part of the trio Paradoxical Frog with Kris Davis and Tyshawn Sorey. In this interview, Laubrock talks about her self-taught entry into improvised music; her collaborations with a variety of musicians; and why she went back to study standards even though she doesn’t often play them. Learn more at www.ingridlaubrock.com/pages/home.htm.

Programming note: Due to a technical problem, I lost part of this interview. My apologies to Ingrid. I’ll have her back on the show for a longer conversation.

Tracks used in this episode: Entraordinary Popular Delusions; You Never Know What’s In The Next Room; The Slow Poisoners; There She Goes With Her Eye Out; Hindsight Is Always 20-20.

An interview and performance with vocalist Kyoko Kitamura and trombonist Jen Baker, recorded live at Downtown Music Gallery in Manhattan. In this interview, Kitamura and Baker talk about collective improvisation; building a new vocabulary; and the structures of their compositions. Learn more at kyokokitamura.com and baker7jenz.com/home.html.

Trombonist Joe Fiedler’s new CD is Sacred Chrome Orb (Yellow Sound, 2011). In this interview, Fiedler talks about the evolution of his trio with John Hebert and Michael Sarin; his use of multiphonics; and why he needs his music to contain fun and humor. Learn more at www.joefiedler.com.

Tracks used in this episode: Occult; Next Phase; Sacred Chrome Orb; Ging Gong; Two Kooks.

Bassist Ken Filiano’s new album is Dreams From A Clown Car (Clean Feed, 2011). In this interview, Filiano talks about remaining present and free of preconceptions; how he switched from trumpet to bass a few weeks before graduating college; and what inspires him to read and listen eclectically. Learn more at myspace.com/kenfiliano.

Tracks used in this episode: (from Dreams From A Clown Car) Silhouette; Dog Days; Beguiled; (from Subvenire) water down stone; breathingdreaming; relay; (from Dreams From A Clown Car) Shinobu; Retronym.

From James Shipp's Dirty Vibraphone Trio at Bar Next Door

Vibraphonist and percussionist James Shipp has been refining his trio concept for a while now, and last night’s show at Bar Next Door proved the work was worth it. Joined by Rogerio Boccato on drums and percussion and Dan Peck on tuba, Shipp played one of the most eclectic sets I’ve heard and managed to hold it all together within his broad musical vision.

James has been a guest on The Jazz Session. And, full disclosure, he’s also a member and a personal friend.

Here are some photos and tweets from last night’s show.

From James Shipp's Dirty Vibraphone Trio at Bar Next Door

“@jamesshippmusic playing beautiful tune of his, ‘Winnowing.’ Trio is vibes, tuba, drums.”

From James Shipp's Dirty Vibraphone Trio at Bar Next Door

“@jamesshippmusic now playing a slip jig (Irish jig in 9) called ‘King Of The Pub.’ On vibes. With tuba and drums. In a jazz club. Huzzah!”

From James Shipp's Dirty Vibraphone Trio at Bar Next Door

“@jamesshippmusic now playing ‘Come With Me’ based on a musical snippet from the first Willy Wonka film.”

From James Shipp's Dirty Vibraphone Trio at Bar Next Door

“Rogerio Boccato and @jamesshippmusic playing a killing pandeiro duet”
“The pandeiro duet became a fast ‘Monk’s Dream.’ Love it.”

From James Shipp's Dirty Vibraphone Trio at Bar Next Door

“Dan Peck just crushed his tuba solo on ‘Monk’s Dream.’”

From James Shipp's Dirty Vibraphone Trio at Bar Next Door

“@jamesshippmusic channeling his inner Morricone with some bowed vibes on his new tune ‘Western Violence.’”

From James Shipp's Dirty Vibraphone Trio at Bar Next Door

“@jamesshippmusic is really good at talking to the audience. Funny and engaging. Now playing a Finnish polska (not polka). Cuz why not?”
“And now a Brazilian ballad. This is certainly an eclectic set, yet it all hangs together well.”
“@jamesshippmusic on his move from Yonkers to Williamsburg: ‘Pretty much the same number of dog walkers and neck tattoos.’ #sarcasm”

From James Shipp's Dirty Vibraphone Trio at Bar Next Door

“@jamesshippmusic starting off the second set at Bar Next Door with a smart arrangment of Hello/Goodbye by Lennon & Mac.”
“This arrangment of ‘Hello/Goodbye’ is so 70s it’s thrilling. @jamesshippmusic #jazzlives #paulisntdead”

Drummer Ches Smith is a versatile and daring player who finds himself in a variety of musical situations as a leader and sideman. In this interview, Smith talks about solo drum playing; his many projects; and how his early years influenced his current approach to music without boundaries. Learn more at chessmith.com.

Tracks used in this episode: (from Noise To Men) Noise To Men; (from Congs For Brums) Metal Vacation; (from Finally Out Of My Hands) Anxiety Disorder; Finally Out Of My Hands; (from Noise To Men) Turn Your iPod Into A Car; (from Finally Out Of My Hands) It Rained And The Tent Fell Down; (from Noise To Men) Omar.

Percussionist and composer Adam Rudolph’s latest album is Both/And (Meta Records, 2011). In this interview, Rudolph talks about making music that “sounds like itself”; how he uses harmonic and rhythmic challenges to find new musical directions; and the influence of mentors such as Yusef Lateef on his approach to making and thinking about music. Learn more at www.metarecords.com/adam.html.

Tracks used in this episode: Return of the Magnificent Spirits; Love’s Light; Tree Line; Blues In Orbit; Dance Drama Part 3; Dance Drama Part 4.

Vocalist Jay Clayton has long been known as both an accomplished singer of standards and a fearless adventurer in the world of electronics. In this interview, Clayton talks about those dual personas and how she brings them together; discusses her work with Sheila Jordan, Theo Bleckmann and others; and talks about her early days in the New York loft scene. Learn more at jayclayton.com.

Tracks used in this episode: (from In And Out Of Love) Falling In Love With Love; Freedom Jazz Dance; (from Circle Dancing) Circle Dancing; Sappho; Ditto; (from In And Out Of Love) Sunshower.

Kyoko Kitamura, jazz musician: “I see the Jazz Session as something that might represent the future of music journalism: a versatile internet downloadable program which combines audio, the musician’s interview, great questions, great editing. I feel that it is very important to have an outlet where the music and the musicians can speak for themselves. Rather than bemoan the current state of the music industry and journalism, I find it more satisfying to support what I believe is a great format that truly works.”

Jonathan Matz, student: “I made a one-time donation of $30 in April, and here’s another $80 to make it to the $110 annual donation. As a full-time student, this is a stretch for me, but as a former WKCR DJ, I know the value of what you’re doing.”

Thanks, Jonathan and Kyoko. If you’d like to support the show, please become a member for as little as $10 a month.

Thank you to the LA Times’ Culture Monster column for naming me as one of 25 arts & culture people to follow on Twitter.

• The article
• Follow my personal account (the one mentioned in the article) at twitter.com/jasondcrane and follow the show’s account at twitter.com/JazzSesh
• Follow the other jazz folks mentioned in the article: twitter.com/paynic, twitter.com/nextbop and twitter.com/blogsupreme
• Follow Culture Monster at twitter.com/culturemonster
  

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/12/holy-canoli-the-la-times-just-named-me-one-of-25-to-follow-on-twitter/feed/ 0 http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/11/the-jazz-session-291-satoko-fujii-and-natsuki-tamura/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/11/the-jazz-session-291-satoko-fujii-and-natsuki-tamura/#comments Mon, 11 Jul 2011 17:26:58 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=3135

  

  Pianist Satoko Fujii and trumpeter Natsuki Tamura have been making adventurous music together for years. In this interview, they talk about the influences of Japanese folk music; the need for risk and fun in music; and why they’re involved in so many diverse projects. Learn more at satokofujii.com and natsukitamura.com.

  Tracks used in this episode: (from Watershed by Satoko Fujii’s Min-Yoh Ensemble) The Thaw; Whitewater; Soranbushi; (From Rafale by the band Kaze with Fujii and Tamura) Noise Chopin; (from ETO by Satoko Fujii’s Orchestra New York) Eto Suite: Rat; Eto Suite: Tiger; (From Rafale by the band Kaze with Fujii and Tamura) Marie-T; (from Watershed by Satoko Fujii’s Min-Yoh Ensemble) Estuary.

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/11/the-jazz-session-291-satoko-fujii-and-natsuki-tamura/feed/ 0 0:52:42 Pianist Satoko Fujii and trumpeter Natsuki Tamura have been making adventurous music together for years. In this interview, they talk about the influences of Japanese folk music; the need for risk and fun in music; and why they’re involved [...] Pianist Satoko Fujii and trumpeter Natsuki Tamura have been making adventurous music together for years. In this interview, they talk about the influences of Japanese folk music; the need for risk and fun in music; and why they’re involved in so many diverse projects. Learn more at satokofujii.com and natsukitamura.com. Tracks used in this episode: (from Watershed by Satoko Fujii’s Min-Yoh Ensemble) The Thaw; Whitewater; Soranbushi; (From Rafale by the band Kaze with Fujii and Tamura) Noise Chopin; (from ETO by Satoko Fujii’s Orchestra New York) Eto Suite: Rat; Eto Suite: Tiger; (From Rafale by the band Kaze with Fujii and Tamura) Marie-T; (from Watershed by Satoko Fujii’s Min-Yoh Ensemble) Estuary. jazz, interview, music Jason Crane no no http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/09/matana-roberts-coin-coin-at-the-jazz-gallery-july-9-2011/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/09/matana-roberts-coin-coin-at-the-jazz-gallery-july-9-2011/#comments Sun, 10 Jul 2011 03:47:19 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=3130

  
  

  From Matana Roberts – COIN COIN – The Jazz Gallery (July 9, 2011)

  I’m so happy to have been at The Jazz Gallery tonight to see Matana Roberts’ COIN COIN. She’s an incredible artist and tonight’s performance hit me hard. In fact, by the time she described her great-great-grandfather toward the end, I was in tears thinking about my own grandfather. It’s powerful music that can evoke such a strong reaction. Here are a few photos and tweets from the show.

  
  

  From Matana Roberts – COIN COIN – The Jazz Gallery (July 9, 2011)

  “@matanaroberts playing and speaking a haunting, heart-squeezing poetry at @thejazzgallery. Get here.”

  
  

  From Matana Roberts – COIN COIN – The Jazz Gallery (July 9, 2011)

  “Sometimes this music is Indiana Jones, sometimes it’s the boulder. I’m not sure how Matana is keeping it together, but she is.”

  
  

  From Matana Roberts – COIN COIN – The Jazz Gallery (July 9, 2011)

  “from vanity and lies / from mockery and snarls / from disappointed hopes / from suns gone down at noon” -poetry from @matanaroberts

  
  

  From Matana Roberts – COIN COIN – The Jazz Gallery (July 9, 2011)

  “Whole room at @thejazzgallery singing ‘Because the storm is passing over … Hallelujah’ along with Matana”

  
  

  From Matana Roberts – COIN COIN – The Jazz Gallery (July 9, 2011)

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/09/matana-roberts-coin-coin-at-the-jazz-gallery-july-9-2011/feed/ 1 http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/09/photos-recap-matuto-at-sycamore-july-8-2011/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/09/photos-recap-matuto-at-sycamore-july-8-2011/#comments Sat, 09 Jul 2011 04:24:04 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=3119

  
  

  From Matuto at Sycamore – July 8, 2011

  Matuto, the Brazilian/Americana band co-led by accordionist Rob Curto and guitarist/vocalist Clay Ross, played tonight at Sycamore on Cortelyou Road in Brooklyn, NY. They rocked hard. How hard? The show ended with the entire band and most of the crown on the sidewalk in front of the club, dancing and singing. Sadly, my phone (and thus my camera) had died by then, but here are the photos I captured earlier in the evening.

  The band has been invited to travel to Copenhagen to take part in a world music trade show. They need your help to raise the funds. Please visit their Kickstarter page to learn more.

  Rob Curto was on The Jazz Session earlier this year for an interview and solo accordion performance. Listen to the interview.

  My friend James Shipp sat in on several tunes tonight, playing the pandeiro. Another friend who was listening with me said “he rocked my world.” No surprise, because James is amazing. Sadly, he also suffers from having played in the post-dead-battery phase of my evening.

  
  

  From Matuto at Sycamore – July 8, 2011

  Gil Oliveira (left) and Clay Ross lead the band upstairs before the show to woo patrons from the upstairs bar down into the basement performance space. It worked, too.

  
  

  From Matuto at Sycamore – July 8, 2011

  (left to right) Rob Curto, Clay Ross, Rob Hecht

  
  

  From Matuto at Sycamore – July 8, 2011

  (left to right) Rob Curto, Ze Mauricio, Clay Ross, Rob Hecht

  
  

  From Matuto at Sycamore – July 8, 2011

  
  

  From Matuto at Sycamore – July 8, 2011

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/09/photos-recap-matuto-at-sycamore-july-8-2011/feed/ 0 http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/07/the-jazz-session-290-kris-davis/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/07/the-jazz-session-290-kris-davis/#comments Thu, 07 Jul 2011 09:00:51 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=3106

  
  

  Pianist Kris Davis is part of several ensembles, including her trio with John Hebert and Tom Rainey on Good Citizen (Fresh Sound New Talent, 2010) and a trio with Ingrid Laubrock and Tyshawn Sorey on the eponymous Paradoxical Frog (Clean Feed, 2010). In this interview, Davis talks about learning to leave space in the music; her studies of classical composition; and the many projects and recordings in which she’s involved. Learn more at krisdavis.net.

  Tracks used in this episode: (from Paradoxical Frog) Iron Spider; Paradoxical Frog; (from Good Citizen) Good Citizen; Where Does That Tunnel Go; Desert Prayers; (from Paradoxical Frog) Feldman.

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/07/the-jazz-session-290-kris-davis/feed/ 1 0:50:02 Pianist Kris Davis is part of several ensembles, including her trio with John Hebert and Tom Rainey on Good Citizen (Fresh Sound New Talent, 2010) and a trio with Ingrid Laubrock and Tyshawn Sorey on the eponymous Paradoxical Frog (Clean Feed, 201[...] Pianist Kris Davis is part of several ensembles, including her trio with John Hebert and Tom Rainey on Good Citizen (Fresh Sound New Talent, 2010) and a trio with Ingrid Laubrock and Tyshawn Sorey on the eponymous Paradoxical Frog (Clean Feed, 2010). In this interview, Davis talks about learning to leave space in the music; her studies of classical composition; and the many projects and recordings in which she’s involved. Learn more at krisdavis.net. Tracks used in this episode: (from Paradoxical Frog) Iron Spider; Paradoxical Frog; (from Good Citizen) Good Citizen; Where Does That Tunnel Go; Desert Prayers; (from Paradoxical Frog) Feldman. Pianists, Podcast Jason Crane no no http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/04/the-jazz-session-289-jim-snidero/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/04/the-jazz-session-289-jim-snidero/#comments Mon, 04 Jul 2011 09:00:58 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=3089

  

  Saxophonist Jim Snidero’s new CD is Interface (Savant, 2011). In this interview, Snidero talks about the use of acoustic guitar on this record; his concept of “warm jazz”; and what makes music appealing to him both intellectually and emotionally. Learn more at jimsnidero.com.

  Tracks used in this episode: Interface; Fallout; Silhouette; Viper; One By One; Expectations.

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/04/the-jazz-session-289-jim-snidero/feed/ 0 0:55:28 Saxophonist Jim Snidero’s new CD is Interface (Savant, 2011). In this interview, Snidero talks about the use of acoustic guitar on this record; his concept of “warm jazz”; and what makes music appealing to him both intellectually [...] Saxophonist Jim Snidero’s new CD is Interface (Savant, 2011). In this interview, Snidero talks about the use of acoustic guitar on this record; his concept of “warm jazz”; and what makes music appealing to him both intellectually and emotionally. Learn more at jimsnidero.com. Tracks used in this episode: Interface; Fallout; Silhouette; Viper; One By One; Expectations. jazz, interview, music Jason Crane no no http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/01/the-jazz-session-288-jane-bunnett-and-hilario-duran/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/01/the-jazz-session-288-jane-bunnett-and-hilario-duran/#comments Fri, 01 Jul 2011 09:00:32 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=3064

  

  Cuban Rhapsody (Alma Records, 2011) is a duet CD by saxophonist and flautist Jane Bunnett and pianist Hilario Duran. In this interview, Bunnett and Duran talk about the joys and challenges of duet playing; the deep history of the album’s repertoire; and the idea of music without boundaries. Learn more at www.janebunnett.com and www.hilarioduran.com.

  Tracks used in this episode: Lagrimas Negras; Almendra; Sherezad; Contradanzas; Longina; Son de la Loma.

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/07/01/the-jazz-session-288-jane-bunnett-and-hilario-duran/feed/ 1 0:46:59 Cuban Rhapsody (Alma Records, 2011) is a duet CD by saxophonist and flautist Jane Bunnett and pianist Hilario Duran. In this interview, Bunnett and Duran talk about the joys and challenges of duet playing; the deep history of the album’s repe[...] Cuban Rhapsody (Alma Records, 2011) is a duet CD by saxophonist and flautist Jane Bunnett and pianist Hilario Duran. In this interview, Bunnett and Duran talk about the joys and challenges of duet playing; the deep history of the album’s repertoire; and the idea of music without boundaries. Learn more at www.janebunnett.com and www.hilarioduran.com. Tracks used in this episode: Lagrimas Negras; Almendra; Sherezad; Contradanzas; Longina; Son de la Loma. jazz, interview, music Jason Crane no no http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/29/event-the-jazz-session-live-with-kyoko-kitamura-and-jen-baker/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/29/event-the-jazz-session-live-with-kyoko-kitamura-and-jen-baker/#comments Wed, 29 Jun 2011 13:33:51 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=3070

  

  WHAT: Live taping of The Jazz Session
  with vocalist Kyoko Kitamura and trombonist Jen Baker
  WHEN: Sunday, July 10 at 7 p.m.
  WHERE: Downtown Music Gallery, 13 Monroe St., New York, NY 10002
  COST: Free

  ABOUT THE EVENT:
  Join Jason Crane for a live taping of The Jazz Session featuring vocalist Kyoko Kitamura and trombonist Jen Baker. If you’ve seen them perform together, you know how amazing they are. If you haven’t, you won’t want to miss it. The show is free and will be preceded at 6 p.m. by flutist Yukari with drummer Carlo Costa.

  ABOUT THE PERFORMERS:
  Kyoko Kitamura is a vocal improviser and composer residing in Brooklyn. She does weird things with her voice and is often a side-person for various amazing musicians. Her own songs have mildly disturbing content which may stem from her experience as a one-time war-reporter.

  Trombonist Jen Baker has performed internationally in ensembles spanning from orchestra to free jazz. Awarded a Meet the Composer grant, she commissioned and performed new solo works on the east and west coasts. Baker’s solo multiphonic project, Lyrical Vibrations, has been performed around the country and can also be heard on her solo album, Blue Dreams.

  ABOUT THE JAZZ SESSION:
  The Jazz Session is an in-depth, online jazz interview show hosted by Jason Crane. The 280+ episodes have been downloaded more than 1.2 million times and are available for free at http://thejazzsession.com. The show is member-supported and needs to recruit 100 members by the 300th episode on August 11. Memberships start as low as $10/month. More information is available at http://thejazzsession.com/join.

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/29/event-the-jazz-session-live-with-kyoko-kitamura-and-jen-baker/feed/ 0 http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/29/the-jazz-session-287-nadav-remez/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/29/the-jazz-session-287-nadav-remez/#comments Wed, 29 Jun 2011 09:00:37 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=3060

  

  Guitarist Nadav Remez’s debut CD is So Far (Brooklyn Jazz Underground Records, 2011). In this interview, Remez talks about his musical upbringing in Israel; his willingness to let his music be beautiful; and the way he approached the recording session with a view to allowing openness and individual expression. Learn more at nadavremez.com.

  Tracks used in this episode: So Far; Pinchas; The Last Exile; Susu.

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/29/the-jazz-session-287-nadav-remez/feed/ 0 0:45:32 Guitarist Nadav Remez’s debut CD is So Far (Brooklyn Jazz Underground Records, 2011). In this interview, Remez talks about his musical upbringing in Israel; his willingness to let his music be beautiful; and the way he approached the recordin[...] Guitarist Nadav Remez’s debut CD is So Far (Brooklyn Jazz Underground Records, 2011). In this interview, Remez talks about his musical upbringing in Israel; his willingness to let his music be beautiful; and the way he approached the recording session with a view to allowing openness and individual expression. Learn more at nadavremez.com. Tracks used in this episode: So Far; Pinchas; The Last Exile; Susu. jazz, interview, music Jason Crane no no http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/28/helen-sungs-electric-company-at-55-bar/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/28/helen-sungs-electric-company-at-55-bar/#comments Wed, 29 Jun 2011 00:59:42 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=3056

  I went with Canadian singer Renée Yoxon tonight to see pianist Helen Sung‘s Electric Company with guitarist Tom Guarna, bassist Dezron Douglas and drummer Rudy Royston. Here are my photos and tweets from the show.

  
  

  From Helen Sung's Electric Company at 55 Bar – June 28, 2011

  “Helen Sung playing Wayne Shorter’s ‘When You Dream’ at 55 Bar.”
  

  
  

  From Helen Sung's Electric Company at 55 Bar – June 28, 2011

  “Helen Sung knows how to play a Fender Rhodes.”
  

  
  

  From Helen Sung's Electric Company at 55 Bar – June 28, 2011

  “Rudy Royston is blowing up the joint with Helen Sung at 55 Bar.”
  

  
  

  From Helen Sung's Electric Company at 55 Bar – June 28, 2011

  “Helen Sung just played a lovely version of ‘Bitter’ by Meshell Ndegeocello.”
  

  
  

  From Helen Sung's Electric Company at 55 Bar – June 28, 2011

  “This version of ‘Love For Sale’ is a little too fusiony for me, though.”
  “@reneeyoxon just referred to this type of fusion as ‘man jazz.’ Let’s get that trending, OK? #manjazz”
  

  
  

  From Helen Sung's Electric Company at 55 Bar – June 28, 2011

  “Rudy Royston is really stealing the show.”

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/28/helen-sungs-electric-company-at-55-bar/feed/ 0 http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/27/undead-jazz-festival-%e2%80%93-day-4-%e2%80%93-june-26-2011/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/27/undead-jazz-festival-%e2%80%93-day-4-%e2%80%93-june-26-2011/#comments Mon, 27 Jun 2011 15:20:03 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=3039

  It’s over. Four days of solid music with many outstanding performances. Last night, the Undead Jazz Fest was in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, which gave me a lovely excuse to ride from my home in Sunset Park to Williamsburg via the NYC Greenway’s Brooklyn Waterfront section.

  I saw a lot of great music last night. And for the three nights before that. One thing I found myself thinking (and then tweeting) was this: “Jazzers: Smile. Talk to the audience. Acknowledge applause after songs. You don’t have to ham it up. Just let us know you know we’re there.”

  I didn’t make it through the whole night last night. I discovered partway through that I was jazzed out. Here’s what I captured in photos and tweets.

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 4 – June 26, 2011

  “Nice bike ride from Sunset Park to #undeadjazz in W’Burg, where Bizingas is making it happen”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 4 – June 26, 2011

  “Kirk Knuffke wailing his ass off with Bizingas”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 4 – June 26, 2011

  “Ches Smith and his ‘stache laying down some Levon Helm swamp funk on Brian Drye’s tune ‘Puffer’”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 4 – June 26, 2011

  “Marika Hues is grooving to a packed and happy house at Cubano Social. And yes, that’s Peter Lorre.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 4 – June 26, 2011

  “Marika Hughes playing sparkling version of ‘No Dancing’ by Don Pullen/George Adams band”
  “Marika Hughes playing a love song for Gil Scott-Heron (her biggest influence) and New York City.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 4 – June 26, 2011

  “The stage at Cameo. We’re either about to see Jon Irabagon … or Yes in 1973.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 4 – June 26, 2011

  
  “Jon Irabagon and Mike Pride at #undeadjazz”
  “This club (Cameo) is lit like one of Peter Gabriel’s nightmares.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 4 – June 26, 2011

  “Classic Claudia: Moran, Gress, Hollenbeck, Speed, Reichman”
  “The Claudia Quintet has a very interesting timbral blend. It’s sometimes challenging to know who’s playing which notes.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 4 – June 26, 2011

  “The Claudia Quintet is a very serious-looking band.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 4 – June 26, 2011

  “Hollenbeck is a mountain of intricate sound. That metaphor doesn’t really work, but you get the idea.”
  “Hollenbeck really is a monster drummer.”
  “Ok, this ‘Be Happy’ tune must be ironically titled. Kick-ass tune, but nothing about it says ‘happy.’”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 4 – June 26, 2011

  “Just chatted with Oliver Lake. Now checking out Bobby Previte’s band with Darius Jones.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 4 – June 26, 2011

  “I was thinking about going home — feeling a bit jazzed out — but Previtte just pulled me back in.”

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/27/undead-jazz-festival-%e2%80%93-day-4-%e2%80%93-june-26-2011/feed/ 0 http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/27/the-jazz-session-286-matana-roberts/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/27/the-jazz-session-286-matana-roberts/#comments Mon, 27 Jun 2011 09:00:11 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=3027

  
  

  Matana Roberts has released two albums recently: Live In London (Central Control, 2011) and Coin Coin Chapter One: Gens De Couleurs Libre (Constellation, 2011). In this interview, Roberts talks about her Chicago roots and the mentorship of Fred Anderson; how she combined her musical practice with her passion for genealogy; and why working on your sound means being willing to take the slow road. Learn more at matanaroberts.com.

  Tracks used in this episode: (from Coin Coin Chapter One: Gens De Couleur Libres) Rise; Pov Piti; Song For Eulalie; Kersaia; Libation for Mr. Brown – Bid Em In; (from Live In London) My Sister; Exchange.

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/27/the-jazz-session-286-matana-roberts/feed/ 0 0:57:11 Matana Roberts has released two albums recently: Live In London (Central Control, 2011) and Coin Coin Chapter One: Gens De Couleurs Libre (Constellation, 2011). In this interview, Roberts talks about her Chicago roots and the mentorship of Fred And[...] Matana Roberts has released two albums recently: Live In London (Central Control, 2011) and Coin Coin Chapter One: Gens De Couleurs Libre (Constellation, 2011). In this interview, Roberts talks about her Chicago roots and the mentorship of Fred Anderson; how she combined her musical practice with her passion for genealogy; and why working on your sound means being willing to take the slow road. Learn more at matanaroberts.com. Tracks used in this episode: (from Coin Coin Chapter One: Gens De Couleur Libres) Rise; Pov Piti; Song For Eulalie; Kersaia; Libation for Mr. Brown – Bid Em In; (from Live In London) My Sister; Exchange. jazz, interview, music Jason Crane no no http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/26/undead-jazz-festival-%e2%80%93-day-3-%e2%80%93-june-25-2011/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/26/undead-jazz-festival-%e2%80%93-day-3-%e2%80%93-june-25-2011/#comments Sun, 26 Jun 2011 17:57:46 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=3010

  I got home from Day 2 at about 2 a.m. on June 25, and at 9 p.m. the same day I was back for more music, still in Brooklyn, but this time even closer to my house. I like this trend and would recommend that all future jazz festivals occur in Sunset Park.

  Here’s my recap of the evening in photos and tweets. (You can follow my live tweets from the festival — and on other days, too — at http://twitter.com/jasondcrane and http://twitter.com/jazzsesh. This is a selection of the photos I took. The full album is here. And by the way, if you’re enjoying these recaps, The Jazz Session could use your help.

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “Sylvie Courvoisier and Mark Feldman: post-apocalyptic chamber music.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “Matt Wilson’s drums, pre-magic”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “@mattwilsonjazz delivers his promised ‘erotic press rolls’”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “Skate park love with @mattwilsonjazz”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “Devotion”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “Matt Wilson is easily one of the deepest, most soulful musicians I’ve ever heard.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “Darius Jones bringing the cosmic soul to Littlefield”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “Darius Jones Trio now sounding like the vanguard of the armies of Mordor”
  “Adam Lane is a badass.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “This is like the soundtrack to Shaft Vs. Cthulu”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “Darius just dedicated this tune to ‘Billy.’ Holiday? Hart? Drummond? Bragg? (I’m kinda hoping for the last one.)”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “Elliot Sharp performing … or leading a meditation retreat.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “Dean Bowman giving a solo gospel clinic in a darkened skate park. A sentence I never thought I’d type.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “Dean Bowman now whistling more than one pitch at a time. Throat whistling?”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “30 seconds in and I already love this bouncing, joyful performance by Anthony Coleman”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “Satoshi Takeshi looks like he’s playing his drums in zero gravity”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “If Monk had written tunes while falling down a spiral staircase, they’d sound like Anthony Coleman’s music. Really digging it.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “Electro-acoustic happy trance music from Mountains. Nice. Way too loud.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “David S Ware starting with a declamatory sopranino call. Darius Jones listens from a few feet away.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “The #UndeadJazz Fest: For Anyone Who’s Ever Wanted To See David S Ware Play Solo In A Skate Park By Candlelight.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “You got your jazz in my dub! You got your dub in my jazz! Jamie Saft at Littlefield”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “RT @darylshawn Wasn’t expecting to see Larry Grenadier tonight (w/Jamie Saft and his beard) #undeadjazz / Me either. He sounds great.”
  “On second thought, it’s not that surprising to see Larry Grenadier playing dub music. After all, he lives in Kingston.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “Never heard – or heard of – drummer Craig Santiago. He’s the bomb. Dub drumming ain’t easy, but he makes it sound that way.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 3 – June 25, 2011

  “Jeff Lederer now joining Jamie Saft’s New Zion Trio. Saft: ‘It’s in E-flat.’ Lederer: ‘Let’s do it.’”

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/26/undead-jazz-festival-%e2%80%93-day-3-%e2%80%93-june-25-2011/feed/ 0 http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/25/undead-jazz-festival-%e2%80%93-day-2-%e2%80%93-june-25-2011/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/25/undead-jazz-festival-%e2%80%93-day-2-%e2%80%93-june-25-2011/#comments Sat, 25 Jun 2011 07:19:58 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=2999

  This post is dated June 25, which is accurate because the show didn’t start until after midnight. But it was worth the wait. The format was a round robin. Dean Bowman sang solo, then was joined by Charlie Burnham. Then Dean left and Erik Friendlander played with Charlie. Then Charlie left … you get the idea. Here is one photo from each combination, in the order in which they appeared.

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 2 – June 25, 2011

  Invocation: Dean Bowman, solo
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 2 – June 25, 2011

  Charlie Burnham and Dean Bowman
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 2 – June 25, 2011

  Erik Friedlander and Charlie Burnham
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 2 – June 25, 2011

  Erik Friedlander and Elliot Sharp
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 2 – June 25, 2011

  Chris Lightcap and Elliot Sharp
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 2 – June 25, 2011

  Chris Lightcap and Brian Chase
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 2 – June 25, 2011

  Brian Chase and Darius Jones
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 2 – June 25, 2011

  Darius Jones and Jamie Saft
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 2 – June 25, 2011

  Kirk Knuffke and Jamie Saft (I couldn’t fit them both in the shot because of where I was sitting.)
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 2 – June 25, 2011

  Kirk Knuffke and Chris Speed
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 2 – June 25, 2011

  Jim Black and Chris Speed
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 2 – June 25, 2011

  Jim Black and Dave King
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 2 – June 25, 2011

  Dave King and Marco Cappelli
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 2 – June 25, 2011

  Chris Dingman and Marco Capelli
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 2 – June 25, 2011

  Chris Dingman and Eivind Opsvik
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 2 – June 25, 2011

  Eivind Opsvik solo — The End!

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/25/undead-jazz-festival-%e2%80%93-day-2-%e2%80%93-june-25-2011/feed/ 0 http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/24/the-jazz-session-285-ike-sturm/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/24/the-jazz-session-285-ike-sturm/#comments Fri, 24 Jun 2011 09:00:29 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=2970

  

  Bassist Ike Sturm has composed an ambitious piece for his album Jazzmass. In this interview, Sturm talks about learning the craft of large-ensemble writing (with a bit of family help); the role his faith plays in his music; and the idea of writing programmatic music that stands on its own. Learn more at ikesturm.com.

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/24/the-jazz-session-285-ike-sturm/feed/ 0 0:42:26 Bassist Ike Sturm has composed an ambitious piece for his album Jazzmass. In this interview, Sturm talks about learning the craft of large-ensemble writing (with a bit of family help); the role his faith plays in his music; and the idea of writing[...] Bassist Ike Sturm has composed an ambitious piece for his album Jazzmass. In this interview, Sturm talks about learning the craft of large-ensemble writing (with a bit of family help); the role his faith plays in his music; and the idea of writing programmatic music that stands on its own. Learn more at ikesturm.com. jazz, interview, music Jason Crane no no http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/24/undead-jazz-festival-day-1-june-23-2011/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/24/undead-jazz-festival-day-1-june-23-2011/#comments Fri, 24 Jun 2011 05:51:32 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=2975

  Here are a selection of my tweets and photos from the first night of the Undead Jazz Festival in NYC.

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 1 – June 23, 2011

  “The Mado Ensemble would make most fusion bands poop their pants.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 1 – June 23, 2011

  “Explosive, surpsrising, delightful playing from trumpeter Natsuki Tamura.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 1 – June 23, 2011

  “Amir ElSaffar dancing between the pitches at Sullivan Hall.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 1 – June 23, 2011

  “Sullivan Hall is packed … with zombies, from the look of this photo. Guess that’s why they call it #undeadjazz”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 1 – June 23, 2011

  “Ingrid Laubrock. Long unaccompanied sax exploration. Sweet weeping Jesus, she’s good.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 1 – June 23, 2011

  “Ingrid Laubrock blowing thru mouthpiece & neck of sax into plastic cup of water, making bubble sounds.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 1 – June 23, 2011

  “Paradoxical Frog just couldn’t be better. Fave jazz group these days? Maybe…”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 1 – June 23, 2011

  “RT @adlermusic Orrin Evans just blew some minds – here comes Nasheet …”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 1 – June 23, 2011

  “@dingmanvibes is for real. My first time seeing him. Great touch and creative harmonic conception.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 1 – June 23, 2011

  “Palm tree over @geraldclayton’s piano at Sullivan Hall looks like Rick’s Place. #iamold #casablanca”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 1 – June 23, 2011

  “Tonight the part of Rick Wakeman will be played by John Escreet”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 1 – June 23, 2011

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 1 – June 23, 2011

  “This Escreet band is hitting me right in the prog gland. Nice.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 1 – June 23, 2011

  “Andrew D’Angelo big band taking it to the woodshed at Sullivan Hall”
  “60% of the people here are recording this. If there’s an assassination, we’ll have a lot of Zapruder films.”
  “Ben Monder, folks. Right next to ‘bad motherfucker’ in the dictionary.”
  “Love watching teens and twentysomethings bobbing their heads to big band music.”
  “Reid Anderson is funky as he wantsta be with Andrew D’Angelo.”
  “Dan Weiss + Ben Monder + Reid Anderson = rhythmgasm”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 1 – June 23, 2011

  “Josh Sinton, seconds ago. He’s now running through Sullivan Hall soloing.”
  

  
  

  From Undead Jazz Fest – Day 1 – June 23, 2011

  “Josh Sinton & Andrew D’Angelo Live at Budokan”

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/24/undead-jazz-festival-day-1-june-23-2011/feed/ 0 http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/22/the-jazz-session-284-peter-eldridge/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/22/the-jazz-session-284-peter-eldridge/#comments Wed, 22 Jun 2011 09:00:48 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=2960

  

  Mad Heaven (Palmetto, 2011) is the new album by pianist and vocalist Peter Eldridge. In this interview, Eldridge talks about making a thematic album; the influence of his parents and siblings on his musical taste and career choice; and the many projects he’s working on, including a film score, a musical and a duo project with bassist Matt Aronoff. Learn more at petereldridge.com.

  Tracks used in this episode: Charmer; Voce e Eu; Buffet Philosophy; Mad Heaven; No Tomorrow; Pra Machucar Meu Coracao; The Very Thought Of You.

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/22/the-jazz-session-284-peter-eldridge/feed/ 0 0:57:44 Mad Heaven (Palmetto, 2011) is the new album by pianist and vocalist Peter Eldridge. In this interview, Eldridge talks about making a thematic album; the influence of his parents and siblings on his musical taste and career choice; and the many pro[...] Mad Heaven (Palmetto, 2011) is the new album by pianist and vocalist Peter Eldridge. In this interview, Eldridge talks about making a thematic album; the influence of his parents and siblings on his musical taste and career choice; and the many projects he’s working on, including a film score, a musical and a duo project with bassist Matt Aronoff. Learn more at petereldridge.com. Tracks used in this episode: Charmer; Voce e Eu; Buffet Philosophy; Mad Heaven; No Tomorrow; Pra Machucar Meu Coracao; The Very Thought Of You. jazz, interview, music Jason Crane no no http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/20/the-jazz-session-283-taylor-haskins/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/20/the-jazz-session-283-taylor-haskins/#comments Mon, 20 Jun 2011 09:00:37 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=2949

  
  

  Trumpeter Taylor Haskins’ most recent CD is Recombination (Nineteen-Eight Records, 2011), a companion piece to American Dream (Sunnyside, 2010). In this interview, Haskins talks about the complex vision of American that led to both records; why his website features a quote from Krishnamurti on the homepage; and how his work in the world of commercial music influences his approach to song form and his sonic palette. Learn more at www.taylorhaskins.com.

  Tracks used in this episode: (from Recombination) Morning Chorale; Here Is The Big Sky; Upward Mobility; (from American Dream) Theme From Dead Man; Black Boxes; Pyramids; (from Recombination) Forgotten Memory of Something True.

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/20/the-jazz-session-283-taylor-haskins/feed/ 0 0:51:53 Trumpeter Taylor Haskins’ most recent CD is Recombination (Nineteen-Eight Records, 2011), a companion piece to American Dream (Sunnyside, 2010). In this interview, Haskins talks about the complex vision of American that led to both records;[...] Trumpeter Taylor Haskins’ most recent CD is Recombination (Nineteen-Eight Records, 2011), a companion piece to American Dream (Sunnyside, 2010). In this interview, Haskins talks about the complex vision of American that led to both records; why his website features a quote from Krishnamurti on the homepage; and how his work in the world of commercial music influences his approach to song form and his sonic palette. Learn more at www.taylorhaskins.com. Tracks used in this episode: (from Recombination) Morning Chorale; Here Is The Big Sky; Upward Mobility; (from American Dream) Theme From Dead Man; Black Boxes; Pyramids; (from Recombination) Forgotten Memory of Something True. jazz, interview, music Jason Crane no no http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/17/the-jazz-session-282-lukas-ligeti/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/17/the-jazz-session-282-lukas-ligeti/#comments Fri, 17 Jun 2011 09:00:24 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=2941

  

  Drummer Lukas Ligeti’s most recent recording is Pattern Time (Innova Records, 2011). In this interview, Ligeti talks about his travels in Africa and how they’ve influenced his writing, particularly his approach to rhythm; how he crosses musical and cultural boundaries; and a fascinating analysis of swing. Learn more at www.lukasligeti.com.

  Tracks used in this episode: Without Prior Warning; On Patterned Time; Timelessnesses; From The Ground Up; Tunnels Alight.

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/17/the-jazz-session-282-lukas-ligeti/feed/ 0 1:00:35 Drummer Lukas Ligeti’s most recent recording is Pattern Time (Innova Records, 2011). In this interview, Ligeti talks about his travels in Africa and how they’ve influenced his writing, particularly his approach to rhythm; how he crosses[...] Drummer Lukas Ligeti’s most recent recording is Pattern Time (Innova Records, 2011). In this interview, Ligeti talks about his travels in Africa and how they’ve influenced his writing, particularly his approach to rhythm; how he crosses musical and cultural boundaries; and a fascinating analysis of swing. Learn more at www.lukasligeti.com. Tracks used in this episode: Without Prior Warning; On Patterned Time; Timelessnesses; From The Ground Up; Tunnels Alight. jazz, interview, music Jason Crane no no http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/15/the-jazz-session-281-ben-gallina/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/15/the-jazz-session-281-ben-gallina/#comments Wed, 15 Jun 2011 09:00:06 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=2936

  

  Sundial Lotus (Innova, 2010) is the debut album by bassist Ben Gallina’s band Salo. In this interview, Gallina talks about composing the music for this record; how the band grew organically beyond his initial conception; and how science fiction and the works of David Foster Wallace have inspired his music. Learn more at www.bengallina.com.

  Tracks used in this episode: The Sky Is An Eye; Worm Emperor; Metamorphistopheles; Obitron Revoluto; Trans-Galactic Sleep Chamber.

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/15/the-jazz-session-281-ben-gallina/feed/ 0 0:51:45 Sundial Lotus (Innova, 2010) is the debut album by bassist Ben Gallina’s band Salo. In this interview, Gallina talks about composing the music for this record; how the band grew organically beyond his initial conception; and how science ficti[...] Sundial Lotus (Innova, 2010) is the debut album by bassist Ben Gallina’s band Salo. In this interview, Gallina talks about composing the music for this record; how the band grew organically beyond his initial conception; and how science fiction and the works of David Foster Wallace have inspired his music. Learn more at www.bengallina.com. Tracks used in this episode: The Sky Is An Eye; Worm Emperor; Metamorphistopheles; Obitron Revoluto; Trans-Galactic Sleep Chamber. jazz, interview, music Jason Crane no no http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/13/the-jazz-session-280-craig-handy/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/13/the-jazz-session-280-craig-handy/#comments Mon, 13 Jun 2011 09:00:58 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=2931

  

  Saxophonist Craig Handy is a member of The Cookers, whose latest CD is Cast The First Stone (Plus Loin, 2011). In this interview, Handy talks about playing with Dee Dee Bridgewater, Roy Haynes and other jazz luminaries; about his youthful experiences learning the craft of section playing and how to perform in service to the music; and about how he’s matured as a player over his decades on the professional scene. Learn more at www.craighandy.com.

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/13/the-jazz-session-280-craig-handy/feed/ 0 1:06:55 Saxophonist Craig Handy is a member of The Cookers, whose latest CD is Cast The First Stone (Plus Loin, 2011). In this interview, Handy talks about playing with Dee Dee Bridgewater, Roy Haynes and other jazz luminaries; about his youthful experienc[...] Saxophonist Craig Handy is a member of The Cookers, whose latest CD is Cast The First Stone (Plus Loin, 2011). In this interview, Handy talks about playing with Dee Dee Bridgewater, Roy Haynes and other jazz luminaries; about his youthful experiences learning the craft of section playing and how to perform in service to the music; and about how he’s matured as a player over his decades on the professional scene. Learn more at www.craighandy.com. jazz, interview, music Jason Crane no no http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/10/the-jazz-session-279-2011-saratoga-jazz-fest-preview/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/10/the-jazz-session-279-2011-saratoga-jazz-fest-preview/#comments Fri, 10 Jun 2011 09:00:42 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=2927

  

  The 2011 Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival takes place Saturday and Sunday, June 25 and 26, in Saratoga Springs, NY. In this interview, festival producer and artistic director Danny Melnick takes us on a tour through the festival’s two days of music. Melnick also tells stories from his years producing festivals with Newport Jazz Festival founder George Wein. Learn more at www.spac.org/jazzfest/.

  Tracks used in this episode: We’ve Only Just Begun (Ben Allison, from Action-Refraction); All Of Time (David Binney, from Graylen Epicenter); Good Morning Heartache (Dee Dee Bridgewater, from Eleanora Fagan (1915-1959): To Billie With Love From Dee Dee); Blue Boy (George Wein, from George Wein’s Newport All-Stars); Third Occasion (David Binney; from Third Occasion) Jackie-ing (Ben Allison, from Action-Refraction).

  Several of the musicians appearing at the festival have been on The Jazz Session. Click on a link below to listen to an interview.

  • Ben Allison
  • David Binney
  • Steve Cardenas (playing at the festival with Ben Allison)
  • Lionel Loueke
  • Rudresh Mahanthappa (playing at the festival with Jack DeJohnette)
  • Luis Perdomo (playing at the festival with Rebecca Coupe Franks
  • E.J. Strickland (playing at the festival with Marcus Strickland)

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/10/the-jazz-session-279-2011-saratoga-jazz-fest-preview/feed/ 3 0:49:13 The 2011 Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival takes place Saturday and Sunday, June 25 and 26, in Saratoga Springs, NY. In this interview, festival producer and artistic director Danny Melnick takes us on a tour through the festival’s two[...] The 2011 Freihofer’s Saratoga Jazz Festival takes place Saturday and Sunday, June 25 and 26, in Saratoga Springs, NY. In this interview, festival producer and artistic director Danny Melnick takes us on a tour through the festival’s two days of music. Melnick also tells stories from his years producing festivals with Newport Jazz Festival founder George Wein. Learn more at www.spac.org/jazzfest/. Tracks used in this episode: We’ve Only Just Begun (Ben Allison, from Action-Refraction); All Of Time (David Binney, from Graylen Epicenter); Good Morning Heartache (Dee Dee Bridgewater, from Eleanora Fagan (1915-1959): To Billie With Love From Dee Dee); Blue Boy (George Wein, from George Wein’s Newport All-Stars); Third Occasion (David Binney; from Third Occasion) Jackie-ing (Ben Allison, from Action-Refraction). Several of the musicians appearing at the festival have been on The Jazz Session. Click on a link below to listen to an interview. Ben Allison David Binney Steve Cardenas (playing at the festival with Ben Allison) Lionel Loueke Rudresh Mahanthappa (playing at the festival with Jack DeJohnette) Luis Perdomo (playing at the festival with Rebecca Coupe Franks E.J. Strickland (playing at the festival with Marcus Strickland) jazz, interview, music Jason Crane no no http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/08/the-jazz-session-278-james-carter/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/08/the-jazz-session-278-james-carter/#comments Wed, 08 Jun 2011 09:00:37 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=2922

  

  Saxophonist James Carter is back with an ambitious new album, Caribbean Rhapsody (Emarcy, 2011), featuring the compositions of Roberto Sierra. In this interview, Carter talks about finding ways to connect with an audience; his collaboration with Sierra on the new compositions; and his view of an artist’s responsibility to the listener and vice versa. Learn more at jamescarterlive.com.

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/08/the-jazz-session-278-james-carter/feed/ 0 1:00:24 Saxophonist James Carter is back with an ambitious new album, Caribbean Rhapsody (Emarcy, 2011), featuring the compositions of Roberto Sierra. In this interview, Carter talks about finding ways to connect with an audience; his collaboration with Si[...] Saxophonist James Carter is back with an ambitious new album, Caribbean Rhapsody (Emarcy, 2011), featuring the compositions of Roberto Sierra. In this interview, Carter talks about finding ways to connect with an audience; his collaboration with Sierra on the new compositions; and his view of an artist’s responsibility to the listener and vice versa. Learn more at jamescarterlive.com. jazz, interview, music Jason Crane no no http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/06/vision-festival-artists-on-the-jazz-session/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/06/vision-festival-artists-on-the-jazz-session/#comments Tue, 07 Jun 2011 03:18:57 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=2914

  The 16th edition of the Vision Festival has begun here in New York. The following are all the Vision Festival artists who’ve appeared on The Jazz Session:

  • Taylor Ho Bynum
  • Gerald Cleaver
  • Cooper-Moore
  • Garrison Fewell
  • Tomas Fujiwara
  • Stephen Haynes
  • Dom Minasi
  • Joe Morris
  • Miles Okazaki
  • William Parker
  • Matthew Shipp: 2010 & 2011 (with Darius Jones)
  • Fay Victor: 2009 & 2011
  • David S. Ware

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/06/vision-festival-artists-on-the-jazz-session/feed/ 0 http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/06/the-jazz-session-277-david-weiss/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/06/the-jazz-session-277-david-weiss/#comments Mon, 06 Jun 2011 09:00:46 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=2909

  

  Trumpeter David Weiss is responsible for the formation of The Cookers, whose latest album is Cast The First Stone (Plus Loin, 2010). In this interview, Weiss talks about the tribute show that led to the creation of the band; why it’s important for him to create working bands rather than one-off shows; and his views on the current jazz scene and why the music’s past was an untouchable zenith. Learn more at www.davidweissmusic.com.

  Tracks used in this episode: Cast The First Stone; Peacemaker; Looking For The Light; The Seventh Day; The Chief.

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/06/the-jazz-session-277-david-weiss/feed/ 0 1:07:41 Trumpeter David Weiss is responsible for the formation of The Cookers, whose latest album is Cast The First Stone (Plus Loin, 2010). In this interview, Weiss talks about the tribute show that led to the creation of the band; why it’s importan[...] Trumpeter David Weiss is responsible for the formation of The Cookers, whose latest album is Cast The First Stone (Plus Loin, 2010). In this interview, Weiss talks about the tribute show that led to the creation of the band; why it’s important for him to create working bands rather than one-off shows; and his views on the current jazz scene and why the music’s past was an untouchable zenith. Learn more at www.davidweissmusic.com. Tracks used in this episode: Cast The First Stone; Peacemaker; Looking For The Light; The Seventh Day; The Chief. jazz, interview, music Jason Crane no no http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/03/the-jazz-session-276-julian-lage/ http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/03/the-jazz-session-276-julian-lage/#comments Fri, 03 Jun 2011 09:00:08 +0000 Jason Crane http://thejazzsession.com/?p=2898

  

  Guitarist Julian Lage’s new album is Gladwell (Emarcy, 2011). In this interview, Lage talks about the creation of the fictional town for which the album is named; the special technique he used to record several of the tracks on the record; and why every guitar has its own distinct sound and aptitude. Learn more at www.julianlage.com.

  Tracks used in this episode: 233 Butler; Margaret; Point The Way; However; Cathedral; Telegram.

  

  ]]> http://thejazzsession.com/2011/06/03/the-jazz-session-276-julian-lage/feed/ 0 0:53:04 Guitarist Julian Lage’s new album is Gladwell (Emarcy, 2011). In this interview, Lage talks about the creation of the fictional town for which the album is named; the special technique he used to record several of the tracks on the record; an[...] Guitarist Julian Lage’s new album is Gladwell (Emarcy, 2011). In this interview, Lage talks about the creation of the fictional town for which the album is named; the special technique he used to record several of the tracks on the record; and why every guitar has its own distinct sound and aptitude. Learn more at www.julianlage.com. Tracks used in this episode: 233 Butler; Margaret; Point The Way; However; Cathedral; Telegram. jazz, interview, music Jason Crane no no