Jazz musicians have a long history of taking different genres of music and making them their own. "Gold Sounds," a new record of jazz interpretations of work by indie rock artists Pavement, is just another example of the versatility, virtuosity and imagination of jazz artists. This quartet certainly has no problem putting their stamp on a genre of music that has barely been tapped by jazz musicians. Although not uncharted territory, this is prime example of the fruitful material available for ex

I have enjoyed listening to his inimitable voice for years but have never had the opportunity to hear him live. His amazing range and sensitivity expressed via the lovely Brazilian Portuguese language resonated with me when I first heard his recordings. Therefore, it was a great joy to hear Milton Nascimento perform at the intimate Blue Note Jazz Club in New York City. There were many high points for the band and audience to celebrate. In a set that was as exhilarating as it was diverse, the

From the days he was playing with the trailblazers of this music (Charlie Parker, Sarah Vaughn) through the many years he has led his own ensembles, Roy Haynes has always been recognized as a rare gem. Over the decades, he has earned his place among the worlds’ rhythm masters. One of the greatest individuals to ever pick up a pair of sticks, Roy Haynes keeps evolving as a leader and a soloist. Roy’s development of young talent is well documented. The jazz greats that cut their teeth on his wa

Danza is a style of music popularized by Juan Morel Campos and Manuel G. Tavarez in Puerto Rico. Angel David Mattos creates jazz interpretations of music by these innovators and composes his own Danza jazz. His playing can be likened to notes fallin’ off the piano like butter. Angel David Mattos & the Jazz Boricua Quartet shared their unique sound at the upper west side club, The Triad. A beautiful ballad by Tavarez featured the bass playing of Elias Cervas. Elias was nice and so was the

Adrian Belew has always had a cartoon character quality about him. The ease with which he does the seemingly impossible and the unique mannerisms that accompany each task make for one entertaining evening. His trio is extremely tight and playing heavy, progressive music. They came flying out of the gate with several pieces of newer material, including "Writing on The Wall," from the CD Side One. The high intensity of the first several tunes was amazing. After playing the Krimson clas