CiTR -- The Jazz Show

Broadcast on 14-May-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 14 May 2012 21:06:00 -0700

This is the only recorded meeting between these two major voices on their instruments. Vibist, Milt Jackson was the leading voice on his instrument since 1946. He can be considered a pioneer of Modern Jazz as he is to his instrument what Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie were to theirs. Wes Montgomery was the same age as Jackson (born in 1923) but because he developed locally, he was not heard in the national scene until 1959 when he signed with Riverside Records. Jackson and Montgomery had never played or met together before this session and as Jackson was signing a contract with Riverside himself, he asked as a condition that he make a recording with Wes Montgomery. This date was done in late 1961 and came off beautifully and it was like these gentlemen had played together all their lives. Jackson and Montgomery are backed by a "Cadillac" New York rhythm section made up of Wynton Kelly on piano, Sam Jones on bass and Philly Joe Jones on drums.Seven wonderful selections made up of blues, originals and a great ballad performance of Mitchell Parish's "Stairway to the Stars". "Bags Meets Wes" is an inspired historical document of two giants of Jazz.

Broadcast on 07-May-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 07 May 2012 21:05:00 -0700

This delightful album was the last appearance of Thelonious Monk on record as a sideman. He did very few dates as a sideman because of his unique style and approach. Monk loved and respected trumpeter and on this date flugelhornist Clark Terry and was only too happy to make this session. Monk could be notoriously difficult in the studio but Orrin Keepnews, the owner of Riverside Records and producer of this recording has stated that this was one of the easiest dates he ever produced. "Everything went down in one or two takes excepting a few of the inevitable false starts....Monk was the consummate sideman and delivered on every tune". The rhythm section was superb with Sam Jones on bass and the incomparable Philly Joe Jones on drums. "In Orbit" was the title and ten tunes were done, 6 by Clark, one by Monk ("Let's Cool One") two old obscure standards: "Trust in Me" and Juan Tizol's "Moonlight Fiesta" plus a new original by the then young composer Sara Cassey called "Very Near Blue". As this album was done in May of 1958 and was Monk's last appearance as a sideman,it has historical significance.

Broadcast on 30-Apr-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 30 Apr 2012 21:07:00 -0700

Julian "Cannonball" Adderley is arguably the most important post-Parker voice of the alto saxophone. Adderley was a gifted man with a high I.Q. and perfect pitch and came to music naturally. He had graduated from college and was teaching high school while still in his late teens! He and his cornet playing younger brother came to new York while on summer leave from teaching and sit-in at some of the great Jazz spots and had all the tongues wagging. This led to tonight's Feature called "Presenting Cannonball". Cannonball wrote four of the tunes and is the sole horn on his ballad outing on "Flamingo" Along with his brother Nat, the Adderley's are backed by a "Cadillac" New York rhythm section with Hank Jones on piano, Paul Chambers on bass and Kenny Clarke on drums. This was the debut that helped the general Jazz listening hear how amazing the young Cannonball was and the beginning of a great career as one of Jazz music's leading voices.

Broadcast on 23-Apr-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 23 Apr 2012 21:02:00 -0700

This album has got to be one of the most impressive debut recordings in recent Jazz history. It is full of originality in the playing and the compositions and it features an actual working band rather than a pick-up group. It may have been a group of unknown musicians but the sounds had swing and substance. The leader and composer of all the tunes is someone who deserves a lot more recognition for forging an individual style on the vibes that is truly his own and has no indebtedness to Milt Jackson. Walt Dickerson is a true master of the vibes. His band is tight and disciplined and includes Austin Crowe on piano and Bob Lewis on bass and someone who went on to a become one of the great Modern jazz drummers...Andrew Cyrille. "This Is Walt Dickerson!" is a most impressive start of a long, creative career. Walt was born in Philadelphia on April 16,1931 and passed away in May of 2008. Enjoy some truly original music by one of it's masters!

Broadcast on 16-Apr-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 16 Apr 2012 21:07:00 -0700

Oliver Nelson only lived until age 43 but his influence on Jazz as an instrumentalist on alto, tenor and soprano saxophones is strong and his composing and arranging leaves a long legacy. Tonight's Feature is Oliver Nelson's debut recording called appropriately enough "Meet Oliver Nelson". This St. Louis born musician seemed to come out of nowhere but he had gained much experience with "territory bands" in the US Midwest. He had spent 3 years as a saxophonist/arranger for the great Jazz playing entertainer Louis Jordan, who was no slouch himself on alto and tenor saxophones and was a great dancer and singer. His association with Jordan brought Nelson to New York. This recording has a stellar cast. Nelson wrote 4 of the 6 selections and plays exclusively tenor saxophone here along with the great "uncrowned king of the trumpet", Kenny Dorham. Ray Bryant plays piano and Wendell Marshall is on bass as well as the always swinging Arthur Taylor on drums. Two other tunes are played...one by Billy Strayhorn called "Passion Flower" and Bob Haggart's immortal tune "What's New?" "Meet Oliver Nelson" is an auspicious debut and a great career starter.

Broadcast on 09-Apr-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 21:03:00 -0700

Tonight's feature album represents a debut (under the artist's own name) and unfortunately the only album he recorded under his leadership. The musician in question is the unheralded tenor saxophonist Walter Benton, who was lost in the shuffle of great players who never received their due. This album was recorded when Benton ventured to New York City to join Max Roach's ensemble. Benton was heard on several Roach albums but most prominently on the famous "Freedom Now Suite" recording. During this time he recorded the feature album called "Out of This World" (the Arlen tune is the title track). This very well organized date has 5 Benton compositions and two standards, one the title track and the other the ballad of the set, the beautiful "Lover Man". Benton chose his sidemen wisely in the persons of the young up-and-coming trumpeter Freddie Hubbard and this stellar rhythm section with Wynton Kelly (piano), Paul Chambers(bass) and Jimmy Cobb on drums. That of course was Miles Davis' rhythm section. Cobb was replaced for the final 4 tunes by Albert "Tootie" Heath. Walter Benton died in 2000 in total obscurity and deserved much more as a musician of great substance but this is often the way with great artists. We have this treasured recording so sit back and enjoy the stylings and compositions of Mr. Benton.

Broadcast on 02-Apr-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 21:05:00 -0700

Tonight's Jazz Feature is the only quartet album by the ill-fated trumpet virtuoso Booker Little. Little's life was cut down at age 23 from uremia. He was born in Memphis on this day, April 2,1938 and died in New York on October 5,1961. Little was like Clifford Brown, well educated, articulate and a clean liver and a dedicated musician. He was discovered by drummer Max Roach in Chicago. Little had just graduated from the Chicago Conservatory of Music and was sessioning around town. He joined the Roach organization and recorded with Max. This album is Booker Little's real recorded debut and it features a hand picked band including pianist Tommy Flanagan on four of the six tunes and Wynton Kelly on two. The bassist is the legendary Scott LaFaro who plays very differently here than on his recordings with Bill Evans. The drummer is the ageless Roy Haynes.Five tunes are by Booker and the ballad standard is the beautiful "Who Can I Turn To?" This album was recorded in 1960 and Booker Little had just turned 22! It was issued on Time Records and called simply "Booker Little". Happy Birthday Mr. Little.

Broadcast on 26-Mar-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 21:03:00 -0700

James Moody would have celebrated his 87th birthday today (March 26). Moody was 85 when he passed away in December of 2010. His career spanned many eras of Jazz music and Moody was one of the best loved figures in the music always remain positive and giving in nature and was a living example of how to not only achieve musical greatness but to maintain it. Moody had a fine little band that was together for about 10 years between 1952 and 1962 and this Jazz Feature presents Moody on alto and tenor saxophones and flute backed by his band. The focus is on Moody and the band although it contains some all-star players is background. The rhythm section is heard throughout and comprises Sonny Donaldson on piano, Steve Davis on bass and Arnold "Buddy" Enlow on drums. It was recorded at the legendary San Francisco club called 'The Jazz Workshop' sometime in 1961 and released on Argo Records and called "Cookin' The Blues". Happy Birthday James Moody....you are missed by everyone in the Jazz Community and throughout the world.

Broadcast on 19-Mar-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 21:05:00 -0700

Pianist/composer/innovator Lennie Tristano was born on March 19. 1919 and he passed away on November 18, 1978 at the age of 59. Tristano is a somewhat forgotten major and influential figure in Jazz in that he literally created a whole school of thinking and playing called "The Tristano School". Tristano emerged on the New York scene in 1947 and began performing and teaching. He, through a series of recordings for Prestige and Capital records created a whole new sound based on the principles of Modern Jazz set down by Charlie Parker and Dizzy Gillespie and others and took that in a whole new direction. His music was unfairly branded as "intellectual" but it is anything but that. Yes, it is complex and has a lighter sound than Parker and Gillespie but it swings and has much emotion but is less "in your face". Tristano's disciples are saxophonists Lee Konitz and Warne Marsh, guitarist Billy Bauer and many many others. Tristano is a formidable pianist and that's what is featured tonight. Four cuts from his 1955 Atlantic album will be first heard then all of the tunes from his last official album, again for Atlantic called "The new Tristano". This will allow you to enter the incredible musical mind of the one and only Lennie Tristano.

Broadcast on 12-Mar-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 21:03:00 -0700

Trumpeter Carmell Jones is a forgotten but important trumpeter who should be recognized as a great voice on that instrument.Jones was born in Kansas City, Kansas in 1936 and died there in 1996. He moved to Los Angeles in 1960 and became an integral part of that scene and recorded under his name and with such people as Harold Land, Bud Shank and Gerald Wilson's Big Band. New York was next in 1964 and he took Blue Mitchell's place in pianist Horace Silver's Quintet. He recorded Silver's best seller for Blue Note Records, the album "Song For My Father". He didn't like New York for a variety of reasons and headed for Europe where he found success in many bands and played with lots of ex-pats like altoists Leo Wright and Herb Geller. He also enjoyed being treated as an artist and was freed from the racism of the USA. He returned to the US, first to Florida then to his hometown and lived out his life playing local gigs and teaching. Sadly he was a forgotten man. Tonight's Feature is a great album recorded after he left Silver and before his departure for Europe. Jones picked an all-star cast including the fiery Jimmy Heath on tenor saxophone, Barry Harris on piano, George Tucker on bass and Roger Humphries on drums. There are three Jones originals on this date including the title track and three good standards. It's a solid and inspired album and should help those who have never heard Carmell realize what a great musician he was.

Broadcast on 05-Mar-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 21:01:00 -0800

Eric Allen Dolphy was like a comet that streaked across the Jazz horizon then quickly disappeared. Eric's life was short and he died from diabetes at age 36. He was born in Los Angeles on June 20,1928 to hard working West Indian immigrants who saw great musical talent in their only son. Eric began on clarinet and progressed to all the saxophones but specializing on the alto. Later he added flute and bass clarinet to his arsenal. He was said to have been proficient on the oboe and bassoon but there is no recorded evidence of those on his many recordings. Tonight's Feature is his second recording for Prestige/New Jazz done in August 1960 when he was still part of the Charles Mingus Jazz Workshop. Eric gained national prominence with drummer Chico Hamilton who brought Dolphy to New York then he joined Mingus and later went on to work with Coltrane, Max Roach, John Lewis and George Russell. He returned to Mingus for a final tour of Europe and passed away in Berlin. This album entitled "Out There" hearkens back to Eric's time with Chico Hamilton but it takes that sound much further afield. The Hamilton band included cello, guitar, bass, drums and Dolphy and this recording eliminates the guitar leaving us with Dolphy on alto saxophone, bass clarinet and flute along with the cello of Ron Carter. The great George Duvivier plays bass and the redoubtable Roy Haynes is on drums.The compositions are mostly Eric's with the exception of "Eclipse" by Mingus, and "Sketch of Melba" by Randy Weston and finally the beautiful "Feathers" by classical composer Hale Smith. "Out There" is a worthy document and was way ahead of it's time.

Broadcast on 20-Feb-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 21:03:00 -0800

To say that Joe Henderson was a major voice of the tenor saxophone would be understating the case. Joe seemed to burst on the scene from out of nowhere in 1963 after his first album called "Page One" for Blue Note Records.However there was a long preparation period and years of study and lessons with the great teacher Larry Teal. Joe made many albums and played with a slew of significant bands including that of pianist Horace Silver. Henderson freelanced and performed with his own bands and toured as a single with backing by local rhythm sections. That holds true for this album recorded during a one night stand at the ironically named "Junk Club" in Tokyo in August of 1971. Henderson was at the top of his game backed up quite energetically by three Japanese players. Henderson gives one of his most inspired performances on record on the four long tracks here. Two are familiar Jazz standards: Monk's "Round Midnight", and Kenny Dorham's "Blue Bossa" and two Henderson originals. Here's Joe Henderson and his best so listen up!!!

Broadcast on 13-Feb-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 13 Feb 2012 21:03:00 -0800

This rather rare item from Blue Note Records documents a regular working band that vibraphonist/marimbaist Bobby Hutcherson had together from 1974 until 1979. The core members are here and include Manny (Emmanuel) Boyd on flute, soprano and tenor saxophones,James Leary 111 on bass. Leary composed a lot for this band and it's his compositions that give the group it's distinctive sound. George Cables is on electric and acoustic piano and the late great Eddie Marshall ins on drums. For this recording percussionist Kenneth Nash is added. Bobby Hutcherson switches between vibes and marimba. The sound is interesting and the vibes have metal bars and the marimba's are wooden. The music sounds totally contemporary, despite being recorded in 1976. The album is called "Waiting" but there is no waiting here...the music is alive and vital!

Broadcast on 06-Feb-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 06 Feb 2012 21:02:00 -0800

Alto saxophonist John Handy is one of the most prominent musicians living in the Bay Area of San Francisco. He has been a prominent force on the Jazz scene, an educator,band leader and an institution. He just celebrated his 79th Birthday on February 3,2012 and is in good health and spirits and still plays selected gigs. Tonight's Feature is a rare recording which was his last for Roulette Records. Handy signed with the label and recorded two critically acclaimed albums but ran into legal problems with the label over royalties and this album in this writer's view is the best of the three but was never issued until about 15 years later. Handy is exclusively on alto saxophone and he's accompanied by a stellar rhythm section including the legendary Walter Bishop Jr. on piano, Julian Euell on bass and the equally legendary Edgar Bateman Jr. on drums. Five of the six tunes are Handy originals with the one standard, a great version of "East of the Sun and West of the Moon". The album was recorded in New York in the summer of 1962 and soon after John Handy returned to San Francisco to begin to travel some new road in his career. This date presents John in his early prime.

Broadcast on 30-Jan-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 21:02:00 -0800

This Feature pays a birthday tribute to the great British Jazz giant, Tubby Hayes. He was born in London on January 30, 1935 and died at age 38 on June 8,1973 of a heart attack. Tubby was mainly a tenor saxophonist although he played all the saxes. He was accomplished on vibes and flute and played excellent piano, composed and arranged. Tonight's Feature is his first great recording called "Tubby's Groove", It was done in London when he was 24 and he is backed by the finest rhythm section in London at the time. Terry Shannon on piano, Jeff Clyne on bass and the incredible Phil Seaman on drums. The repertoire is fairly straight forward. Good standards and a few good Jazz tunes like Johnny Hines "Sunny Monday", Chano Pozo's "Tin Tin Deo" and Hayes' own "Blue Hayes" etc. Happy Birthday Tubbs, your great legacy lives on throughout the world.

Broadcast on 23-Jan-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 21:03:00 -0800

J.J.Johnson was the premier trombonist in Modern Jazz and is to the trombone what Charlie Parker was to the alto saxophone and Dizzy Gillespie was to the trumpet and Bud Powell and Thelonious Monk were to the piano. I'm sure you now get the point that Mr. Johnson was one of the pioneers of Modern Jazz. J.J. was also a composer and arranger of major proportions and did everything from writing for large ensembles to scoring T.V. shows and movies. This Feature tonight celebrates what would have been his 88th birthday (Johnson died in 2001) and focuses on his magnificent trombone artistry. At this time (1964) he was occasionally gigging with Miles Davis, playing solo gigs, writing and as he does here, lead his own group. Johnson is backed by Harold Mabern on piano, Arthur Harper on bass and Frank Gant on drums. The tunes are all "blowing" vehicles such as Miles Davis' "Neo"(aka "Teo"), Max Roach's "Blues Waltz", Johnson's "Minor Blues" and three standards,"My Funny Valentine","Stella By Starlight" and the less familiar "Gloria" by Bronislaw Kaper. Johnson is in full flight and in top form and this is one of his definitive recordings.....Proof Positive indeed!

Broadcast on 16-Jan-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 21:02:00 -0800

This is the 74th anniversary of this most famous Jazz concert by 'The King of Swing": Benny Goodman. This concert was the first time real Jazz music was presented on the formal concert stage. Yes, it had been heard in nightclubs, after-hour joints and ballrooms but until this momentous event, never in concert halls. Mr. Goodman's full band, his Trio and Quartet are heard plus a short "History of Jazz" with some guests from the Duke Ellington Band and cornet virtuoso, Bobby Hackett. Also on tap was the staged jam session where guests from Ellington's band and Count Basie's band including the Count himself jammed on Fats Waller's "Honeysuckle Rose". The Trio with Goodman on clarinet, Gene Krupa on drums and Teddy Wilson on piano is heard and so is the Quartet with the addition of Lionel Hampton on vibraphone. Some of the most exciting performances by the Quartet are captured here making the studio recordings sound like rehearsals. It's all here and to this day one of the prime moments in Jazz music has been captured on recordings. We take you back tonight to enjoy the whole concert.

Broadcast on 09-Jan-2012

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 09 Jan 2012 21:02:00 -0800

In many ways this is an indirect tribute to the passing of the innovative drummer/composer Paul Motian. Motian had played with Jarrett from 1967 to 1976 but on this recording they had not played or seen one another in 16 years. "At The Deer Head Inn" is in fact a reunion of sorts and the trio is comprised of piano genius Keith Jarrett, bassist Gary Peacock and Motian. Most of us are aware of "The Standards Trio" with Jarrett, Peacock and Jack DeJohnette who have recorded many many discs but with Motian on board for this date the music takes a subtle turn and has, because of Motian's genius, some new and different properties. The selections are mostly standards from the "Great American Songbook" plus a couple of Jazz originals like Jaki Byard's "Chandra" and Miles Davis' "Solar". The Deer Head Inn holds a special place in Jarrett's heart as it is close to his hometown of Allentown, Pennsylvania and it's where he played some of his first professional gigs as a very young man before he became known world-wide. Motian's work here is wonderful and he'll be missed by all.

Broadcast on 19-Dec-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 21:02:00 -0800

This is one of the most famous recordings in Modern Jazz history. As always on the last Jazz Show before Christmas, we play this historic date recorded on December 24,1954. The Miles Davis All-Stars gathered to lay down these tracks. Miles did not want to record with Monk as he respected him as a pianist and composer and friend but did not enjoy playing with him preferring John Lewis or Horace Silver as pianists but Bob Weinstock, the owner of Prestige Records insisted that Davis use Monk as he wanted Monk to record with some of his label's best sellers. Miles finally agreed to the date with Monk and even though they had their differences, it's Monk that provides the positive creative tension which makes this music so great. This session is a Jazz milestone. The people involved are Milt Jackson on vibes, Percy heath on bass, Kenny Clarke on drums and Monk and Miles. The tunes are Jackson's famous blues, "Bags' Groove". Monk's "Bemsha Swing" the Gershwin's "The Man I Love" and Davis' opus, "Swing Spring". The feel of Christmas is in the air on these recordings and Jazz history was made here. Merry Christmas from The Jazz Show and myself, Gavin Walker.See you in 2012 on January 9.

Broadcast on 12-Dec-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 12 Dec 2011 21:02:00 -0800

Julian Priester is one of the major voices of Jazz trombone but is underrecognised. He was born in Chicago and like many great musicians was educated by the legendary Captain Walter Dyett at DuSable High School in Chicago. His playing credits include Sun Ra, Lionel Hampton, Max Roach, Art Blakey, Freddie Hubbard, Duke Ellington, Herbie Hancock and Dave Holland. He was also for many years a music professor at The Cornish Institute in Seattle. Tonight's Feature is his debut recording under his name called "Keep Swingin'" and released on Riverside Records in 1960. This is a well-organized and thoughtful date and Julian picked his sidemen well. Jimmy Heath appears on tenor saxophone on 5 of the 8 tunes. Tommy Flanagan is on piano and the great Sam Jones is on bass, plus the dynamic Elvin Jones on drums.Priester wrote 4 originals for the date and Jimmy Heath penned the great opening track called "24 Hour Leave" This album is an auspicious debut for a wonderful musician who deserves more recognition.....Julian Priester!

Broadcast on 05-Dec-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 05 Dec 2011 21:03:00 -0800

The great tenor saxophonist Stan Getz was known as "The Sound" and this album is a musical explanation of that description. Stan recovered from being called "yesterday's man" in the early 60's after he had returned from his time in Europe. Stan made the album "Jazz Samba" with guitarist Charlie Byrd and he was back on top with the "bossa nova".With the bossa nova days over for him, he returned to his favourite instrumental set-up of piano, bass and drums with this pivotal recording called "Sweet Rain". The people involved are Chick Corea on piano, Ron Carter on bass and Grady Tate on drums.Two of Corea's compositions are featured as well....."Litha" and "Windows". A Jobim tune called "O Grande Amor" is here plus the title track by Mike Gibbs and Dizzy Gillespie's "Con Alma". Getz is in superb form and the album, recorded in 1967 stands as a classic.

Broadcast on 28-Nov-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 28 Nov 2011 21:02:00 -0800

There is not much to say about this Jazz Feature. This is what is known as "the second great quintet" led by the mercurial and ever-changing concepts of trumpeter/bandleader Miles Davis. In this incredible band are along with Mr. Davis included Wayne Shorter on tenor saxophone, Herbie Hancock on piano, Ron Carter on bass, and the amazing Tony Williams on drums. These concert performances recorded in Copenhagen make the classic studio recordings sound like rehearsals. The band is at it's absolute peak and Miles changed direction soon after these performances as they could not have gotten better or more creative. This music is as modern as tomorrow despite the fact that was performed in November of 1967!

Broadcast on 21-Nov-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 21:03:00 -0800

Coleman Hawkins was the first great Jazz soloist on the tenor saxophone. As Louis Armstrong was to the trumpet, Mr. Hawkins was to the tenor saxophone which before his time was basically a novelty instrument and was not even used in Jazz very much in the 20's when Hawkins began to make his mark on music scene. Tonight we celebrate what would have been Hawkins' 107th Birthday. He was born in St. Joseph, Missouri on November 21,1904 and died at 64 in New York on May 19,1969. Tonight's Feature is a fine collection of standard tunes recorded by Hawkins with a top-notch rhythm section with Oscar Peterson on piano, Herb Ellis on guitar, Ray brown on bass and Alvin Stoller on drums. Mr. Hawkins' interpretations of these tunes are a tribute to his musical mastery and demonstrate his magnificent sound in the best light. Happy Birthday Bean!!!!!

Broadcast on 14-Nov-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 14 Nov 2011 21:02:00 -0800

Pianist/composer Horace Silver was one of the great style setters of Jazz music in the 50's,60's and into the 70's.He was one of the great bandleaders and his quintets were always made up of trumpet, tenor saxophone, piano, bass and drums. Silver was the longest contracted artist with Blue Note Records and from the first edition of his quintet in the fall of 1956 through to 1985, Horace put out an average of two albums per year. Most of these albums are genuine classics and tonight's Feature is no exception. It's called "The Cape Verdean Blues" and the title track is dedicated to Horace's dad who was from the Cape Verde Islands. The title track and two other Silver compositions are by the quintet with Woody Shaw on trumpet, the great Joe Henderson on tenor saxophone, Silver and Bob Cranshaw on bass and Roger Humphries on drums. The last three tunes consist of two by Mr. Silver and one by Henderson but added to the band is the magnificent master of the trombone, Mr. J.J. Johnson! All in all a classic Silver document from October 1965.

Broadcast on 07-Nov-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 07 Nov 2011 21:02:00 -0800

One of the most dramatic and charismatic voices of the tenor saxophone is Pharoah Sanders. He came to fame as John Coltrane's alter-ego in Mr. Coltrane's last working band then went on to forge his own career and sound with his own concepts. A series of albums, emphasizing the African spiritual influences were done in the late 60's through to the mid-70's. Then Pharoah formed the classic quartet instrumentation.....saxophone, piano, bass and drums. That's what's on tap here and it's his best band. Pharoah with pianist John Hicks, bassist Walter Booker and the great Idris Muhammad on drums. The set features three Sanders' originals and one standard by Rodgers and Hart. All of it was recorded live and in concert. Pharoah is one of today's definitive voices of the tenor saxophone and he brings his best to the table here!

Broadcast on 31-Oct-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 21:02:00 -0700

This is basically a straight-ahead blowing date led by one of the premier drummers in Modern Jazz: Joseph Rudolph Jones aka "Philly Joe" Jones. The title track is preceded by a spoken monologue by Philly Joe. Jones and comedian Lenny Bruce loved Bela Lugosi and Philly Joe worked a number of gigs with Lenny. So Joe learned the accent and the inflections of Lugosi.Jones has fun on the first track called simply "Blues For Dracula"....the rest is a solid date with some of the best that New York had to offer in the 50's. Philly Joe Jones leads Nat Adderley on cornet, Johnny Griffin on tenor saxophone, Julian Priester on trombone, Tommy Flanagan on piano, and a young Jimmy Garrison on bass. A good solid record and a bit of Halloween fun.....enjoy!

Broadcast on 24-Oct-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 21:02:00 -0700

This set celebrates Sonny Rollins' 80th year on the planet and comes from his second CD of live performances called "Roadshows Number 2". It's mostly from his 80th Birthday celebration at the Beacon Theatre in New York. The concert features Sonny's regular band with guest trumpeter Roy Hargrove but the centerpiece is the long version of Sonny's blues "Sonnymoon For Two" with guest star Ornette Coleman, who was also celebrating his 80th Birthday! Sonny, Ornette with bassist Christian McBride and 85 year old drum master Roy Haynes.Long live Sonny Rollins!!!!!!!

Broadcast on 17-Oct-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 17 Oct 2011 21:02:00 -0700

This is a special edition of The Charles Mingus Jazz Workshop and was a relatively short-lived band. This set was recorded in New York on Nov. 6,1961 before heading West for various engagements and upon returning to New York, Mingus changed personnel. This band had a loose, bluesy and funky quality and was more like a jam band than other Mingus groups. Charles chose to sing and play piano and direct the band from the bench. The regulars were trombonist Jimmy Knepper and tenor saxophonist Booker Ervin and of course, drummer Dannie Richmond. The feature star in the band was Roland Kirk who blew three saxophones at once and whistles, sirens and such. Kirk combined the sophistication of the Jazz musician with the soul and intensity of a street player. All nine compositions are by Mr. Mingus and he directs the band with shouts and encouragement from the piano bench. It's the loose, funky and bluesy and humerous (at times) side of Charles Mingus and it's a one-of-a-kind band. Enjoy "Oh Yeah!".

Broadcast on 10-Oct-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 10 Oct 2011 21:01:00 -0700

This is a very rare recording done by a amateur engineer who caught the performance off the PA system at the 1959 Newport Jazz Festival. This Feature is in honor of Thelonious Monk's 94th Birthday. The sound is decent and the music superb. It is by one of Monk's finest quartets. Charlie Rouse on tenor saxophone was settling into Monk's music and sounded vital and fresh. The rhythm section is the great Sam Jones on bass and the wonderful new York drummer, Arthur Taylor. Taylor and Jones were about to leave Monk for other opportunities and this was one of their last gigs together. Monk, of course is in fine form and all the tunes are his and are all familiar to those who know Monk's music. This performance has never before been heard on radio and is a worthy tribute to one of the giants and one of the pioneers of Modern Jazz. Happy Birthday Mr. Monk!!!!

Broadcast on 03-Oct-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 03 Oct 2011 21:03:00 -0700

Earle Lavon Freeman, better known as Von is the last of the legendary Chicago tenor saxophonists and is now very well known but for years was one of Jazz music's secrets because he never traveled far from Chicago. Von is celebrating his b 88th birthday today (Oct. 3) and we are featuring his first recording under his own name called "Doin' It Right Now!" The album was produced for Atlantic records by Rahsaan Roland Kirk as he felt the need to bring Von Freeman into the spotlight. The album was made in 1972 and Von was 49 years old! It was recorded in New York and Mr. Freeman brought his favorite pianist from Chicago, John Young. The rhythm section included the great Sam Jones on bass and Jimmy Cobb on drums. Four Freeman originals are included on the set plus 3 standards including a nice version of Ewan McColl's "The First Time I Ever Saw Your Face". Happy 88th Mr. Freeman...keep playing Vonski!

Broadcast on 26-Sep-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 26 Sep 2011 21:02:00 -0700

Art Pepper, despite his tempestuous and turbulent life dotted by arrests for drugs and long periods of incarceration, always came to play and play for his life. From a period of 1975 which marked his emergence from his final rehab until his death at age 56 on 1982, Art Pepper played every gig and every recording as if it were his last and tonight's Feature done in 1980 was no exception. This is a never before released complete set recorded at London's premier Jazz club, Ronnie Scott's. Art Pepper, who is heard on alto saxophone on all the tunes except one, where we hear is distinctive clarinet, is accompanied by one of his best bands. Milcho Leviev is superb on piano and Tony Dumas grounds things beautifully on bass and Carl Burnett is simply Art's favorite drummer. The set is a mix of standards and blues and a couple of Pepper originals. Art Pepper played life through his horn and played for his life!

Broadcast on 19-Sep-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 21:02:00 -0700

This classic recording done in the mid-50's is not a history of Jazz but an analysis of what Jazz is and what it isn't. Maestro Bernstein, who had a great love and respect for this unique American form of music demonstrates with musical examples what makes up the sound of Jazz. This classic recording should be enlightening to even the most casual listener and solve some of the mysteries of this music. This recording is enlightening, educational and entertaining and I'm sure you'll enjoy the ruminations of Maestro Bernstein.

Broadcast on 12-Sep-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 21:02:00 -0700

This was recorded in 1960 by Riverside Records and features a narration by Mr. Adderley (a former school teacher) who even then was nearing legendary status as a Jazz artist. Adderley was not only a master alto saxophonist, bandleader but a lucid orator who could put across complex ideas in a very simple way. Although this recording was done in 1960, it still has historical significance in that it traces with recorded examples a history of Jazz up to the moment. It's only too bad that Adderley couldn't have recorded one of these every five years and updated the information but we are lucky to have this. The only other limitation was that the recorded examples had to be what was legally available to Riverside Records. However this album will give one an fine overview of this music's history. This is part 1 of The Jazz Show's education series welcoming everyone back to school. Next week we'll hear Maestro Leonard Bernstein's "What is Jazz".

Broadcast on 05-Sep-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 05 Sep 2011 21:02:00 -0700

This is some incredible music performed live at the Cellar Door in Washington D.C. by Miles Davis and company. Mr. Davis calls the band "Directions". It was recorded in December of 1970 so anyone who knows Miles' musical history is aware that Davis was seeking new forms and sounds in his music. Gone were the standards and tunes like "So What" and "Milestones" etc. Funky grooves pervaded and open playing over these grooves. This band, unlike some of Davis' later groups had a unity of purpose and a cohesion. They were together for nearly two years and Davis' saxophonist, altoist and soprano player Gary Bartz said that he felt that this was "Miles Davis' last great band". The people involved here are of course, Mr. Davis on trumpet and Gary Bartz. Keith Jarrett plays electric organ and electric piano and as much as he detests electronic keyboards, he plays them out of deference to Mr. Davis' wishes.Michael Henderson on electric bass comes not from Jazz but a funk background and provides the steady bass lines that this music needs. Jack DeJohnette is one of the most dynamic drummers in Jazz and plays complex rhythms and compliments the energy of all the soloists. The tunes are all segued into one large suite and presents, before a live audience Miles Davis music at it's peak in 1970.

Broadcast on 29-Aug-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 29 Aug 2011 21:02:00 -0700

Today (August 29) would have been Charles Christopher Parker's 91st Birthday. We are honoring "Bird" on tonight's show. The first two hours will present Charlie and his alto saxophone in a jam session context and also some performances in a live club setting. Then on the Feature segment of the show (11pm to Midnight) we'll play some important and well known studio sessions by Parker and his working bands. Charlie Parker was born in Kansas City Missouri on August 29, 1920 and died at age 34 in new York on March 12, 1955. No other musician in Jazz has this kind of influence and Parker's legacy is still felt today within everybody who plays this music. Much life was packed into those 34 years: addictions, hedonism, financial ups and downs, marriages but most importantly the legacy of the best of Jazz music! Bird lives!

Broadcast on 22-Aug-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 21:03:00 -0700

This fine recording done in January of 1984 by two great Jazz journeymen: tenor saxophonist Charlie Rouse, who was most closely associated with Thelonious Monk and trumpeter Red Rodney who was associated with Charlie Parker. These two old friends often talked about playing and recording together but during most of their lives it was just talk. It finally happened on this date and as expected the music produced was cohesive and the tunes selected were good ones and not overplayed. The date is what we would consider mainstream Modern Jazz but with a freshness and energy one would expect from two great players in fine form. They are backed by a wonderful rhythm section. Albert Dailey is on piano, Cecil McBee on bass and a young Kenny Washington is behind the drums. Well chosen tunes and great arrangements by Don Sickler make this sound like a permanent working band. Rouse's "Little Chico" opens followed by Gigi Gryce's "Social Call", then Miles Davis' "Half Nelson",then Bobby Porcelli's "Greenhouse" (a variant on Cole Porter's "What is this Thing Called Love") then the standard "Darn That Dream" and finally Tadd Dameron's "Casbah". Solid, professional Jazz played with taste and inspiration!

Broadcast on 15-Aug-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 15 Aug 2011 21:02:00 -0700

This is a seminal recording of the career of the great Canadian pianist Oscar Emmanual Peterson who was born on this day, August 15,1925 in Montreal. This album features Oscar's best trio with Ray Brown on bass and Ed Thigpen on drums and is an 8 movement suite dedicated to Canada. It is a musical trip across the vast land from East to West and not only emphasizes Peterson's pianistic abilities but his prowess at composition. This is a great tribute to the country that Peterson was so proud of and that gave him so many of his deserved honours. The Canadiana Suite is a wonderful portrait of Canada and it's composer Oscar Peterson.

Broadcast on 08-Aug-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 08 Aug 2011 21:03:00 -0700

This is the Ellington band recorded at the Juan-les-Pins Jazz Festival on the French Riviera in July of 1966. Not much to elaborate here except there were 3 new compositions added to the vast Ellington repertoire as well as the tried and true. All of the major soloists were still alive and playing at their very best at this time. People like Cootie Williams, Cat Anderson, Lawrence Brown, Johnny Hodges, Paul Gonsalves, Harry Carney, Sam Woodyard etc are heard and the 3 new compositions are "La Plus Belle Africane", "West Indian Pancake", and "Soul Call", the latter written by ex-Ellington drummer Louis Bellson and the album's title track. This music is definitive Ellington played by an inspired edition of this great American institution, The Duke Ellington Orchestra!

Broadcast on 01-Aug-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 01 Aug 2011 21:02:00 -0700

This is the only recording by this terrific short-lived band. Tenor saxophonist Harold Land and bassist Red Mitchell decided that they wanted a band that played tough, swinging and vital music like their New York counterparts. So along with other Los Angeles based players they formed this fine quintet in the summer of 1961. They rehearsed and built up a fine repertoire of original tunes and played a few gigs around L.A. They were lucky enough to be heard by the ceos of Atlantic Records and in the Fall of 1961 recorded two dates that made up this record. The people involved aside from Land and Mitchell were trumpet legend Carmell Jones, pianist Frank Strazzari and San Diego drummer Leon Petties. Everyone except Petties wrote for the band and the tunes are tight and complex. High energy and creativity pour forth from this group and it is fortunate that they were able to at least make this album before going their separate ways. "Hear Ye!" is a fine statement of quality Modern Jazz.

Broadcast on 25-Jul-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 25 Jul 2011 21:03:00 -0700

This is the best of the three recordings that drummer Philly Joe Jones made for Riverside Records. Philly Joe hand picked the people involved on this date and along with tenor saxophonist Benny Golson wrote and arranged most of the tunes herein. We'll hear flutist Herbie Mann, trumpeters Lee Morgan and Blue Mitchell, alto saxophone giant, Julian Cannonball Adderley, Sahib Shihab on baritone saxophone, Wynton Kelly on piano, Jimmy Garrison or Sam Jones on bass and of course Philly Joe Jones on drums. The album was called "Drums Around The World" as it featured some music influenced by Africa and Afro-Cuban and Latin rhythms and even a nod to American Indian rhythms. This is a fine showcase for the talents of one of the greatest dummers in Jazz.....Joseph Rudolph Jones aka Philly Joe!!!

Broadcast on 18-Jul-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 18 Jul 2011 21:03:00 -0700

David Lambert McMurdo was born March 4,1944 in England and raised in Vancouver. Dave mastered the trombone early and formed his own band and worked with Bobby Hales' Orchestra and moved to Toronto in 1969 where he joined Phil Nimmons' band called Nimmons 'n' Nine. Dave never looked back after that and not only became one of the leading voices on the trombone but composed arranged and taught music as well and was a great influence on the Canadian Jazz scene. Dave was 67 when he passed away on June 13, 2011. He had been battling cancer but a heart attack took his life while relaxing at home. This album is dedicated to his mentor, Phil Nimmons and the band plays one of Phil's most appealing compositions called Mod's Mode. The rest of the tunes are from a concert recorded in Glenn Gould Studios in Toronto and McMurdo features many arrangements by some of his band members. Two highlights are Dave's own composition called Song For Antony and Dave's arrangement of the Coltrane classic, Impressions. The only thing missing here is the sound of Dave's trombone as he chose to only play in the section. However this is the Dave McMurdo Jazz Orchestra at it's best. RIP David Lambert McMurdo, your contributions to Canadian Jazz will not be overlooked.

Broadcast on 11-Jul-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 11 Jul 2011 21:05:00 -0700

This was the first recording by the newly expanded band led by the great alto saxophonist, Julian "Cannonball" Adderley. The core band included Julian's brother, Nat on cornet, Joe Zawinul on piano and the stellar rhythm section of bassist Sam Jones and drummer Louis Hayes. It was the addition of multi-instrumentalist, Yusef Lateef that gave the band it's new sound and distinction. It was now the Cannonball Adderley Sextet. Lateef not only was one of the most identifiable voices on the tenor saxophone but also was one of the finest flutists in Jazz but also played oboe! This album was their first as a sextet and their first live recording done in their home base of New York......hence the title. Previous live recordings by the Adderley band had been done in San Francisco and Los Angeles. This album maked a new sound and a new era for one of the best Modern Jazz groups ever. Sit back, relax and enjoy the set recorded at the Village Vanguard in January of 1962.

Broadcast on 04-Jul-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 04 Jul 2011 21:05:00 -0700

This is a wonderful relaxed recording between two great tenor saxophonists who displayed widely different styles. John Coltrane is here on this date done in May 1957 in his first full maturity and he displays a concept and confidence that caused musicians and critics to declare him to be the newest important voice on the tenor saxophone. Paul Quinichette was ten years older than Coltrane and was the most direct descendant of the saxophone style of Lester Young. Quinichette was called the "Vice-Pres" for a very good reason. Coltrane and Quinichette were good buddies and Mr. Coltrane learned many a trick from Paul. Quinichette was equally at home in a Basie setting and in more modern contexts. Coltrane and Quinichette exchange ideas and trade phrases over five good selections including 3 original compositions written specifically for this date by pianist Mal Waldron who appears here. Bassist Julian Euell and drummer Ed Thigpen complete the rhythm section.The real charm of this session is hearing two very individual and distinctive voices on the tenor saxophone. Individuality today is sadly lacking in today's younger players although their overall musicianship may be better than ever....the essence of Jazz is still to develop one's own voice. There was no mistaking the voices of John Coltrane and Paul Quinichette. Check out Cattin'!

Broadcast on 27-Jun-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 27 Jun 2011 21:02:00 -0700

St. Elmo Sylvester Hope Jr.was born on this day (June 27), the only child of hard working West Indian immigrants, in New York in 1923. Elmo was one of the unsung greats in Jazz music and he died on May 19, 1967 at age 43 of heart failure and pneumonia. Mr. Hope grew up with his two closest friends, Thelonious Monk and Bud Powell. Powell and Monk, despite the extreme difficulties in their lives achieved Jazz immortality and fame but Elmo Hope did not. He is deserving of the same kind of respect as Bud and Monk as he is not only an original pianist but a fine composer as well. His piano style suggests Bud and Monk, of course but it is all Elmo Hope. T This Feature album is called "Homecoming!" and marked his return to New York after four rather unhappy years in Los Angeles. It's divided into two sections. Three tunes are brand new and features a sextet with tenor saxophonists Fran Foster and Jimmy Heath and trumpeter Blue Mitchell plus Percy Heath on bass and Philly Joe Jones on drums. The rest of the album is made up of Mr. Hope on piano in a trio setting with Heath and Jones. Four tunes make up this segment and have three Hope composition and one lovely standard named "Imagination". This is the Jazz Show's tribute and Birthday greeting to one of the unsung giants of Jazz.....Mr. Elmo Hope.

Broadcast on 20-Jun-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 20 Jun 2011 21:02:00 -0700

The album "Out To Lunch!" was recorded on February 25,1964 and was Eric Dolphy's final statement recorded domestically. It was his musical vision with the people he wanted to work with. Eric died at 34 just a few months after this date in Berlin on June 29, 1964 as a result of diabetes. His collegues here are Freddie Hubbard on trumpet, Bobby Hutcherson on vibes, Richard Davis on bass and a young genius on the drums, Anthony (Tony) Williams. All of the compositions are Dolphy's and he is presented on all of his main instruments, the alto saxophone, the bass clarinet and the flute. This now classic recording is a challanging listen but worth the effort. It sadly marked the beginning of a new creative cycle for Eric Allen Dolphy so in a way it is a beginning and and end to this amazing musician. Today would have been his 83rd birthday as he was born in Los Angeles on June 20, 1928, the only child of hard-working West Indian immigrant parents. Enjoy "Out To Lunch!"

Broadcast on 13-Jun-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 13 Jun 2011 21:02:00 -0700

Tonight is a special program in that your host Gavin Walker takes a back seat and turns the show over to The Manager of Artistic Programming for the Coastal Jazz and Blues Society, Rainbow Robert. Ms. Robert has picked all of the music for the show and talks about the artists and where they will be appearing at this year's Vancouver International Jazz Festival. This is a very special Jazz Festival preview and as usual the Jazz Festival has an amazing array of great artists and is the most popular of all the summer festivals in Vancouver. Welcome Rainbow Robert to The Jazz Show.

Broadcast on 06-Jun-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 06 Jun 2011 21:01:00 -0700

Guitar master Grant Green emerged on the Jazz scene in the early 60's and along with Wes Montgomery were two of the most prominent exponents of that instrument. Grant Green, in the mid-60's made a conversion to a more funky organ based sound for his working group. He dropped the Gershwin and Porter standards for more contemporary material from black urban and crossover music. While still retaining his blues based sound on the guitar, Grant explored this groove and also played funky danceable original compositions as he found steady work in small clubs around the nation that existed in the African-American districts in cities throughout the USA. This group recorded at the "Club Mozambique" in Detroit in January 1971 and features Mr. Green on guitar with regulars, Clarence Thomas on soprano and tenor saxophone and organist Ronnie Foster and guests for this engagement, tenor saxophone master Houston Person and drummer Idris Muhammad. Together they hit the right groove and play for listening and dancing. Get down and get funky!

Broadcast on 30-May-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 30 May 2011 21:01:00 -0700

Tonight The Jazz Show celebrates what would be the 102nd birthday of one of the icons of 20th Century music. The King of Swing: Benny Goodman. I'll be presenting as the Jazz Feature broadcast recordings from various locations where the tri, quartet and band played in the peak years of Goodman's popularity in 1937/38. The trio with Goodman on clarinet, Teddy Wilson on piano, and Gene Krupa on drums was augmented to the Quartet with the dynamo of the vibes, Lionel Hampton. The big band with Goodman, Krupa, trumpet aces Harry James and Ziggy Elman and tenor saxophone star Vido Musso was no less dynamic playing great Fletcher Henderson and Jimmy Munday arrangements. Happy Birthday Mr. Goodman...your music is forever.

Broadcast on 23-May-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 23 May 2011 23:00:00 -0700

The conclusion of the May 23 Jazz Feature: The Final Recordings of Artie Shaw.

Broadcast on 23-May-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 23 May 2011 19:31:00 -0700

Tonight The Jazz Show is celebrating what would be Artie Shaw's 101st birthday. Arthur Jacob Arshawsky was born on May 23, 1910 and died at the ripe old age of 94 on December 30, 2004. Tonight on the Jazz Feature, I'll be playing a selection of his final recordings as a musician and one of the finest clarinettists in the world. These are small group recordings that show that Mr. Shaw was not resting on his past laurels and was keeping up with the times. With Artie on clarinet are Hank Jones on piano, Tal Farlow on guitar, Joe Roland on vibes, Tommy Potter on bass and Irv Kluger on drums. They were done in New York and Los Angeles in February, March and June 1954 and consituted his final recordings....he never touched the clarinet after this. The selections are all arranged tighly and neatly by Mr. Shaw and show his sence of perfection. The tunes are standards and a few Shaw originals and demonstrate his virtuosity on the clarinet. Someone once asked Shaw who he felt was the best clarinettist......himself or Benny Goodman.....Shaw raised his eyebrows and said "Benny plays the clarinet, I play music'. Indeed Mr Shaw.....Happy Birthday!

Broadcast on 16-May-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 16 May 2011 21:04:00 -0700

Tonight we send birthday wishes to Woodrow Charles Herrman who became better known as Woody Herman, one of the all-time greatest band leaders and one whose place in Jazz history is secure. Woody was born May 16, 1913 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin and passed away at age 74 on October 29, 1987. Woody led so many great editions of his bands that he called "Herds" that this one is no exception. Recorded over a period of three nights at Basin Street West in Hollywood in May of 1963, this edition contained a great rhythm section of Nat Pierce on piano (who was also the band's chief arranger), Chuck Andrus on bass and the amazing Jake Hanna on drums. Some of the stars in this band were Bill Chase and Billy Hunt on trumpets, Phil Wilson and Harry Southall on trombones and as always a superb saxophone section with Bobby Jones and Bill Perkins on tenors, Frank Hittner on baritone and the stupendous Sal Nistico on tenor who at the time was the band's most exciting soloist and who's work on the up-tempo tunes left the other players with open mouths!.Then there is "The Old Man"...the glue that held the band together with his warm work on alto saxophone and clarinet and his occasional vocals. Happy Birthday Woody.....Jazz music was changed for the better by your person and your encouragement of young talent. Woody Herman forever!!!

Broadcast on 09-May-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 09 May 2011 21:02:00 -0700

Booker Ervin was one of the most identifiable voices of the tenor saxophone. He possessed a high, hard, keening sound and a rich blues based concept. He was also Charles Mingus' favourite saxophonist and worked with Mingus and recorded with Mr. Mingus on some of his most important albums such as "Mingus Ah Um", "Blues and Roots", etc. Ervin was born in Denison,Texas on Oct 31,1930 and died of kidney failure at 39 in July of 1970. He recorded a number of fine albums under his own name, especially for Prestige Records. Tonight's Feature was his first done in April of 1960. Booker picked the men and did so wisely. On second tenor saxophone was the great Zoot Sims and Booker and Zoot make an interesting contrast. On trumpet was the older Turrentine brother, Tommy, in fine form. The "poet of the piano" is in fine fettle on this date and will surprise you with his funky, bluesy playing on many of the tunes. George Tucker, a great bassist who studied with Mingus plays exceedingly well with one of Mingus' main men, drummer Dannie Richmond. 5 of the six tunes are by Booker Ervin and they naturally reflect a Mingus attitude. The final tune is a lovely old standard called "Poor Butterfly". This was Booker Ervin's debut recording under his name and it's a good one, worth searching for. However you needn't go too far because you can hear it right here!

Broadcast on 02-May-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 02 May 2011 21:01:00 -0700

Richard Arnold "Groove" Holmes was born on this day, May 2, 1931 in Camden New Jersey and was one of the great masters of the mighty Hammond B3 organ. Holmes, unlike most of the great B3 artists did NOT start on the piano and then switch but began on the Hammond. He developed his own sound that separated him from the other greats on that instrument. His strong point was his magnificent bass lines. Holmes for many years had a very successful career in Los Angeles and he made his first recorded appearance on the west coast Pacific Jazz label. The album is a goody and features a great cast. The official title is "Les McCann Presents The Dynamic Jazz Organ of Richard "Groove" Holmes". Pianist McCann was a best seller for Pacific Jazz records and he turned owner, Richard Bock onto Holmes talent. Holmes put together a fine recording band with McCann on unobtrusive piano, two great horn players in the persons of Lawrence "Tricky" Lofton on trombone and the great Ben Webster on tenor saxophone along with George Freeman on guitar and the tasty Ron Jefferson on drums. It' a fine debut with lots of neat arragements by Mr. Holmes and great playing by all. Holmes died in 1991 at age 60 from prostate cancer and he's missed as he was among the illustious pantheon of great Hammond organists. Happy Birthday Groove!!!!

Broadcast on 25-Apr-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 25 Apr 2011 21:02:00 -0700

Ella Fitzgerald wasn't called "The First Lady of Song" for nothing. Her clear diction and faultless intonation and her rich mezzo-soprano voice to this day is unequaled. Also she should be called "The First Lady of Scat" because evn though she didn't invent the art of scat singing, she perfected it and to this day no singer can match her abilities in this direction. To celebrate Ella's 94th Birthday (she was born April 25, 1917)) we are presenting one of her finest performances called "Ella in Berlin". It was recorded before a rapt audience of 12,000 people in what was then West Berlin in February of 1960 with Miss Fitzgerald and her working band including her musical director, Paul Smith on piano, Jim Hall on guitar, Wilfred Middlebrooks on bass and Gus Johnson on drums. Ella sings a wide variety of great standard tunes and concludes the concert with a wild and wonderful scat version of the bop classic "How High The Moon". As a famous classical music critic said "Ella does everything and the only thing she doesn't do is anything wrong". Happy Birthday Lady Ella....you music is forever.

Broadcast on 18-Apr-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 18 Apr 2011 21:03:00 -0700

Pianist/composer Cecil Taylor is today recognized as one of the world foremost artists and has received many accolades and honours for his work. His music has always been on the cutting edge and sometimes a great challenge for the casual Jazz listener. Taylor, like that other Jazz iconoclast, Thelonious Monk suffered at the hands of the so-called "Jazz police". He was fired from gigs and booted off more than a few bandstands until he found a group of sympathetic players to work with. This early recording gives the average Jazz listener a clearer picture of Cecil Taylor's musical aims as he was still using the bass (Buell Neidlinger) and the drums (Dennis Charles) in a traditional manner and using 4/4 swing as the basis for his improvisations. He later abandoned that concept and played one on one rhythms and his music became more dense and challenging to the listener. This recording called "Looking Ahead" features Mr. Taylor with his two regular rhythm players plus the only appearance in record by the obscure vibist, Earl Griffith. Their interplay is unique and wonderful but sadly Griffith died not long after this session was completed in June of 1958. Five of the compositions are Taylor's and the ballad is Earl Griffith's composition called "African Violets". Among Taylor's tunes, a mention should go to the title of the last opus called "Excursion On A Wobbly Rail". If you've never heard Cecil Taylor's music before or shied away from it, this is a good place to start. Looking Ahead indeed!

Broadcast on 11-Apr-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 11 Apr 2011 21:02:00 -0700

This amazing music was recorded in performance at New York's "Fillmore East", which was at the time primarily a rock venue. Miles Davis had entered his post "Bitches Brew" stage and was entering his new phase and a very new context for his creativity. Miles always moved forward, according to his artistic muse and gone were the standards, and tunes like "Milestones", "So What", "All Blues" etc. His new music featured more electric instruments and was governed more rhythmically by rock and funk. His trumpet work was brilliant in this new context but that very context alienated a lot of his audience but gained many new listeners.This set was recorded in June of 1970 and presents very well edited performances that were pared down to the essence by Miles and his producer, Teo Macero. They captured the best moments from two sets that actually lasted over one hour and they were cut to fit the LP format at 22 to 25 minutes. The people in Miles' band included Mr. Davis and Steve Grossman on tenor and mostly soprano saxophone, Keith Jarrett on organ and keyboards and Chick Corea on Rhodes electric piano and keyboards, Dave Holland on electric and acoustic bass, Jack DeJohnette on drums and Airto Moriera on percussion. There are many melodies segued in these two sets and the music is intense and "balls to the wall". Miles and company are smokin'!!!!

Broadcast on 04-Apr-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 21:01:00 -0700

This album is on so many people's "desert island discs". This classic was recorded over two dates in May of 1962. The band worked a few engagements around the New York area then went into the studio. Roy Haynes, who is now 86 years old is one of the wonders of the world as he is still playing as well, if not better than he was when he was much younger. He is amazing, as usual on this recording. Mr. Haynes for most part as a bandleader has always led groups with this simple instrumentation: saxophone, piano, bass and drums. This group was exceptional in that the saxophonist is Roland Kirk, who later became known as Rahsaan Roland Kirk. Kirk, who is blind lived in a world of sound. He plays three saxophones at once and has other instruments strung around his neck and also plays flute and clarinet. We hear some of his work on this record. He plays, flute, manzello (a type of soprano saxophone in Bb) and the stritch (a straight alto saxophone in Eb) plus his tenor saxophone. He are happy that Mr. Kirk visited this planet because there has been none other like him. On piano is "the poet of the piano", the late Tommy Flanagan. His sparkling lines highlight this session. Henry Grimes is on bass and at age 26 had already played with Charles Mingus, when Mingus preferred to play piano, also Sonny Rollins, Thelonious Monk and singer, Anita O'Day. This special band led by the redoubtable Mr. Haynes delivers on all 7 tunes. Four are standards that have not been overplayed and the remaining three are compositions (rare) by Roy Haynes. All in all a classic by a once in a lifetime group. Mr."Snap Crackle" lives!!!

Broadcast on 28-Mar-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 21:03:00 -0700

Thad Jones was better known as a bandleader/composer arranger but he was also a magnificent trumpeter. Thad was from the famous Detroit Jones family that produced older brother Hank, the great pianist and the youngest brother, Elvin, one of the most innovative of Jazz drummers. Thad, born in Pontiac, Michigan on March 28, 1923 was the "middle brother". Thad was 63 when he passed away in his adopted city of Copenhagen on August 21, 1986 at age 63. This album celebrates his birthday and is his first in a series he did for the Blue Note label. It's called "Detroit-New York Junction" and it features Thad with fellow Detroiters, Billy Mitchell (tenor saxophone), Kenny Burrell (guitar), Tommy Flanagan (piano) with New Yorkers, Oscar Pettiford on bass and the great unsung drummer Rossiere "Shadow" Wilson. The 5 tunes include two standards and 3 Jones' originals. The album gives us generous portions of Thad's original and unique trumpet playing. Charles Mingus called Thad "Bartok with valves". Happy Birthday Mr. Jones....I'm sure you are now enjoying the company of your brothers in Jazz Heaven.

Broadcast on 21-Mar-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 21:03:00 -0700

Rusty Bryant was an authoritative voice of the tenor and alto saxophones. Because of his love for Columbus, Ohio he never ventured very far from that city, where he was a local musical hero. He usually went to New York or L.A. only to record. He had some recorded successes in the mid-50's where he displayed a smooth style and a light Getz-like tone but stayed around Columbus and was rediscovered by Prestige Records and offered a contract. By this time he had changed his style to a more bluesy full-bodied sound and concept and worked in a more funky context usually with a Hammond organ. In his series of discs for Prestige we present his best and his best-selling album called "Soul Liberation" Rusty surrounds himself with some great players like Virgil Jones on trumpet, Melvin Sparks on guitar, Charles (The Mighty Burner) Earland on organ and the great Idris Muhammad on drums. Rusty sticks to the tenor on 4 of the 5 tunes one of which is written by Eddie Harris called "Cold Duck Time" two tunes by organist Earland and one straight blues by Rusty and finally Rusty's tribute, played on the alto saxophone to a cousin who was killed in Viet Nam called "The Ballad of Oren Bliss". "Soul Liberation" is earthy, funky and great for listening and if the spirit moves you....dancing.

Broadcast on 14-Mar-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 14 Mar 2011 21:03:00 -0700

Quincy Delightt Jones needs no introduction to anyone even remotely interested in music. Whether you taste is Jazz,pop, or whatever...Quincy Jones has influenced to way we listen to music. Quincy Jones in the mid-50's had established himself in New York as an instrumentalist, arranger, contractor, composer and a musical influence all before his 25th birthday! Today he is 78 as he was born in Chicago on March 14, 1933. Tonight's Jazz feature is called simply "This Is How I Feel About Jazz" and it is a big band album with members assembled from the Jazz elite. Art Farmer, Zoot Sims, Hank Jones, Milt Jackson, Herbie Mann, Charles Mingus are just a few of the names that perform on this album. It was the first full scale recording under Quincy's name and it is a classic. Happy Birthday Mr. Jones...live long!

Broadcast on 07-Mar-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 21:02:00 -0800

The name Grachan Moncur might not immediately register with Jazz fans but he was one of the movers and shakers of Modern Jazz in the mid-60's and he was one of the young musicians who pushed the boundries of the music at that time. His trombone work owes little or nothing to J.J. Johnson and co. and he developed an individual concept on that difficult horn. It was his compositions that were unique and very fresh. Moncur did two albums for Blue Note and this is his second called "Some Other Stuff". His previous recordings were mostly with a loose knit band that Moncur had with altoist Jackie McLean but this date was with a hand-picked group by Mr. Moncur. His trombone is blended with Wayne Shorter's tenor saxophone for a perfect tonal match. Herbie Hancock has the chops and adventuresome spirit to compliment the compositions and virtuoso bassist Cecil McBee enhances the tunes as well. Providing some very creative drumming is 19 year old Tony (Anthony) Williams who is perfect for this ensemble. There are only four compositions on this date and the tunes are long enough for the players to stretch out on. Moncur later went into teaching and mentoring but this Blue Note recording is one of his masterpieces and it it what he'll be remembered for. Some Other Stuff indeed!!!!

Broadcast on 28-Feb-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 21:03:00 -0800

This album recorded in August of 1959 marked a turning point in the recording career of one of the greatest Modern Jazz tenor saxophonists: Johnny Griffin. Up to this time Griffin's recordings had been casual quartet or "blowing dates" with loosely put together arrangements. This date is different and was also greeted warmly by the critics. What makes this date special is the arrangements and the three compositions by Norman Simmons, a Chicago homeboy of Griffin's. The three horn front line works wonderfully with Blue Mitchell on trumpet, Julian Priester on trombone (another one of Griffin's homeboys) and a strong rhythm section comprising Wynton Kelly on piano, Sam Jones on bass and Albert "Tootie" Heath on drums. Griffin is at his fiery best on this date and plays fewer notes than usual and all his solos "tell a story", as Lester Young would say. The Little Giant is an excellent date and was a real step-up for one of the major voices of the tenor saxophone....Johnny Griffin!

Broadcast on 21-Feb-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 21:03:00 -0800

One of Jazz music's greatest drummers was Joseph Rudolph Jones who was better known as "Philly Joe" Jones to distinguish him from the older drummer who was associated with Count Basie: Jo (Jonathan) Jones. One of Philly Joe's last major projects was organizing a 10 piece band to play and revive the music of one of the most important composers in Jazz: Tadd Dameron. The band was called "Dameronia" and recorded two fine albums for the independent Uptown label. One has just been re-issued on CD and has won many accolades this year as "Re-issue of The Year". It was recorded in 1983 and features along with Philly Joe, who was one of Dameron's closest friends, many people who had worked with Tadd. Tenor saxophonist Johnny Griffin is one of the prominent soloists but others are heard to good advantage like pianist Walter Davis Jr.,baritone saxophonist Cecil Payne, alto saxophonist Frank Wess, trombonist Benny Powell and others. The original Dameron arrangements were collated by trumpeter Don Sickler who was a great help to Philly Joe in putting this project together. This is a great tribute to Tadd Dameron, who not only was one of pioneers of Modern Jazz but one of it's greatest composers who should be mentioned along with Monk, Mingus and Ellington. Enjoy Dameronia!

Broadcast on 14-Feb-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 14 Feb 2011 21:05:00 -0800

Trumpeter Joe Gordon was a great player who like many others didn't get the recognition that he deserved. His recorded documentation is short with a number of important sideman performances with Dizzy Gillespie, Wes Montgomery, Thelonious Monk, Charlie Parker et al. He only made two albums under his name: one in 1954 and tonight's Feature in 1961. This album is special as it was to be the last under his name as Joe died in November 1963 in a house fire. Gordon was born in Boston and played there with everyone of note then he moved to New York and in 1958 moved west to Los Angeles where he became a first-call Jazz player. This album features eight unique compositions by Joe Gordon and a hand-picked band of relative unknowns from the LA area. Most prominent is alto saxophonist Jimmy Woods, who makes his recording debut here. A fiery and original player. Dick Whittington on piano, Jimmy Bond on bass and Milton Turner on drums complete the band. This document of Gordon's magnificent playing and his fine compositions is a treasure and a great legacy of this underrated player. The album was released on Contemporary Records and is called "Lookin' Good!"

Broadcast on 07-Feb-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 07 Feb 2011 21:04:00 -0800

Guitar master Grant Green and Wes Montgomery were two of the most influential voices of their instrument in the 1960's. They seemed to come out of nowhere to Jazz fame and in a way they did. Both honed their skills in their respective home towns...Montgomery in Indianapolis and Green in St. Louis. Cannonball Adderley discovered Wes and brought him to the attention of Riverside Records honcho Orrin Keepnews and Green was discovered by Lou Donaldson who brought him to the attention of Alfred Lion of Blue Note Records. Green's albums for Blue Note from the early 60's are many and all are worth hearing. Tonight's Feature is a most relaxed date where Green and company perform just four standards that have not been played to death. "Street of Dreams" by Victor Young is the title track, Charles Trenet's "I Wish You Love" is heard along with "Lazy Afternoon" and the old theme from the famous TV series "Naked City" called "Somewhere in the Night". The players all sound like a working band even though they were assembled just for this record date......they were all on the same page stylistically. Along with Grant Green, we have a then new star on the scene, Bobby Hutcherson on vibes, Larry Young on organd and Elvin Jones on drums. The album is relaxed and quite mellow but is so creative and interesting that you'll be surprised as to how quickly it's over. That's a sign of a good record! Enjoy Mr. Green and company. The fire burns low but with an intensity and swing that is captivating.

Broadcast on 31-Jan-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 21:04:00 -0800

This is arguably Charles Mingus' last great recording. It was done at two separate sessions. One composition was done in 1976 with his working band of the time with Jack Walrath (trumpet), George Adams (tenor saxophone), Danny Mixon (piano) and of course Dannie Richmond on drums and Mingus on bass. The band was augmented by some fine Italian musicans as well. The piece was to be used in a film called "Todo Modo" but alas for a variety of complex reasons it wasn't used in the film but we have the music. That is the first selection. The second called "Cumbia and Jazz Fusion" was recorded the following year (1977) and the first indications of ALS (undiagnosed) was happening to Mingus. Regardless, the composition showed Mingus' appreciation for what we now call "world music". It features his last regular band with Walrath, Richmond and Ricky Ford (tenor saxophone), Bob Neloms (piano) augmented by a few others like Jimmy Knepper on trombone etc. It's a fascinating musical excursion into the mind of Mingus and the music ranges from exotic to straight swing with some satire, politics and ribald humor and anger all rolled into one piece. Mingus' music continues to be some of the most compelling in American Jazz and this is one of his last great statements. Mingus died on January 5, 1979.

Broadcast on 24-Jan-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 24 Jan 2011 21:04:00 -0800

January 24 is the birthday of one of the great unsung drummers....his name....Leonard Louis McBrowne. He was born in New York on Jan. 24,1933 and passed away after a short illness in San Francisco in the mid-90's. Lenny had played with many people of note: Billie Holiday, Sonny Rollins, Randy Weston, Thelonious Monk,Paul Bley, just to name a few. Lenny studied with Max Roach and reflected Roach's teaching by playing in a swinging and very melodic manner, something few drummers accomplish. McBrowne loved the West Coast and spent much time there playing in the two major Jazz centers, L.A. and San Francisco. He formed his own band in 1959 and called it Lenny McBrowne and The Four Souls. They only recorded two albums, the first for Pacific Jazz was fine but tonight's Feature was much better. It was produced by Julian "Cannonball" Adderley for Riverside Records and called "Eastern Lights". It has never been reissued on CD. McBrowne wanted to take the band to New York and show the easterners that West Coast guys could play with fire and soul but alas, the trip east never happened and eventually the group disbanded and McBrowne began a freelance career. This recording is a fine document and features the incisive trumpet work of San Diegan, Don Sleet and the great tenor saxophone work of fellow San Diegan, Daniel Jackson. Mr. Jackson was the defacto musical director of this band and did seven of the eight tunes and arranged them all. He is still alive and well and was recently honored in his home town of San Diego with "Daniel Jackson Day"! Pianist Terry Trotter displays a fine touch and technique. Terry became very sought after and went on to a long career in the Hollywood film studios. Bassist Jimmy Bond is solid as a rock. The leader, Lenny McBrowne demonstrates why he became one of the finest drummers on the planet. It's a bit sad that his life ended in relative obscurity. "Eastern Lights" deserves a place among those albums that we call "minor classics".

Broadcast on 10-Jan-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 10 Jan 2011 21:04:00 -0800

A significant recording in the long distinguished history of Modern Jazz pioneer, drummer extraordinaire Max Roach. Today, January 10 is Mr. Roach's Birthday and The Jazz Show celebrates this event by presenting the album "Max Roach Plus Four" recorded in September 1956.. This was Max's fist recording after the tragic end to the Clifford Brown-Max Roach Quintet. Brown and the band's pianist, Richard Powell, were killed in a car accident in June 26, 1956. After a period of recovery from this trauma which also affected the whole Jazz community, Mr. Roach reformed the band under his name and kept tenor saxophonist Sonny Rollins and bassist George Morrow. Rollins was finally being acknowledged as the leading new voice of the tenor saxophone and Morrow was one of the strongest bassists in Jazz and one who could keep up with Mr. Roach and the furious tempos that he loved. Trumpeter Kenny Dorham was the very worthy replacement for Clifford Brown and he shines on this album. Ray Bryant, from Philadelphia was a great replacement for Powell and was the first of many fine pianists in this band until Mr. Roach stopped using piano players in the late 50's. The album is inspired and energetic and is a great milestone in the recorded legacy of Mr. Max Roach. Happy Birthday Max!

Broadcast on 03-Jan-2011

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 21:03:00 -0800

Alto saxophonist John Jenkins was a rather shadowy figure on the Jazz scene in New York in the 50's. John was born on Jan. 3,1931 in Chicago and today would be his 80th birthday...he died in 1993. Jenkins worked with Mingus for a very short time after arriving in New York in March 1957 then he freelanced. He recorded a number of dates in 1957 as a sideman and a couple as a leader...that's basically it. He dropped out of active playing to go into business and raise his family. The Feature tonight is a tribute to Jenkins' great talent. It's his only album under his name for Blue Note Records and was done in August 1957. John is partnered on the front line by guitarist Kenny Burrell. The rhythm section is a stellar one with the legendary Sonny Clark on piano, Paul Chambers on bass and John's friend from his time with Mingus, drummer Dannie Richmond. This rare item has some good standards like Cole Porter's "From This Moment On" and the ballad feature made famous by Billy Eckstine, "Everything I Have Is Yours". The rest is made up of 3 Jenkins originals and one by Kenny Burrell. All in all a worthy tribute to a fine and almost forgotten talent...Mr.John Jenkins a strong voice of the alto saxophone.

Broadcast on 20-Dec-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 21:04:00 -0800

This classic session had always been a Jazz Show tradition and once again this year, 2010, we present it. Little need be said about this date which took place on Christmas Eve in 1954 with Miles Davis in top form as the nominal leader. Milt Jackson is on vibes, Thelonious Monk in trenchant form on piano, Percy Heath on bass and Kenny Clarke on drums. The session is known as the "Bags' Groove Session" as two incredible takes of Milt Jackson's simple blues line is delivered by the band. The other tunes are a Miles Davis/Bud Powell opus called "Swing Spring" plus a Monk/Denzil Best composition called "Bemsha Swing" and finally the Gershwin opus,"The Man I Love". The Jazz Show and your host Gavin Walker wish everyone out there a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year and we'll see you in 2011.

Broadcast on 13-Dec-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 21:03:00 -0800

This album was recorded by the great tenor saxophonist/arranger/composer Teddy Edwards (April 26,1924-April 23,2003) who was asked to put together a band of relative unknowns for a session for Lester Koenig's Contemporary Records. Koenig paid for the rehearsals and the band recorded over three dates in December of 1960 in L.A. Upon listening to the finished product, Edwards and Koenig shelved to date as the solos were good but the ensembles playing Teddy's charts sounded a bit ragged. It wasn't until 1995 that the tape box was heard again by Teddy and a new producer at Contemporary and they reevaluated the session and decided to put it out. We should be glad they did as Teddy is at his early peak and the band is fine and energetic albeit a bit rough but ready! Edwards chose some good players from the L.A. underground like Nathaniel Meeks on trumpet, the fiery Jimmy Woods on alto saxophone, Modesto Brisenio on baritone sax, Lester Robertson on trombone and Danny Horton on piano, Richard Alderson on bass and the great Larance Marable on drums. A worthy discovery called "Back To Avalon". The band plays some Edwards' originals and also his arrangements of some solid standards. An excellent session all round...enjoy the music of Teddy Edwards.

Broadcast on 06-Dec-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 06 Dec 2010 21:04:00 -0800

The album called "Jazz At Oberlin" was a turning point for Dave Brubeck who today (Dec. 6,2010) celebrates his 90th Birthday! When this record was issued by the small west coast independent,Fantasy and even Brubeck's most vituperative critics had to acknowledge the album's worth. It is just five tunes (all standards) from a concert that took place at the midwestern Oberlin College in Ohio on March 2,1953. Brubeck was just beginning to tour colleges with his Quartet and he succeeded in opening up a whole new market for Jazz. The concert at Oberlin was attended by mostly music students who had very little experience listening to Jazz. Brubeck changed all of that and you'll hear the audience reaction to the solos and various passages. The quartet is in blazing form with everyone at their best. Brubeck and alto saxophonist Paul Desmond excel and the rhythm section comprising two San Franciscans, bassist Ron Crotty and drummer Lloyd Davis. The playing on these five tunes surpasses any recorded performances by the Quartet up to this point. Brubeck was on his way and the following year (1954)Dave signed a lucrative contract with Columbia Records and the rest is history. Brubeck by this time became the most popular musician in Jazz and all of this happened before "Time Out" and "Take Five"!!!!! Happy Birthday Mr. Brubeck!

Broadcast on 29-Nov-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 21:04:00 -0800

Baritone saxophone master Leo Parker has been unfairly treated in the history books and left out as one of the pioneers of Modern Jazz and the first major baritone saxophonist of the modern era. Parker's life, like many musicians of his era was short and blighted by drug use and he experienced long periods of incarceration because of that. Tonight's Feature was to be his second album marking a "comeback" in 1961. The first was issued on Blue Note and was musically fine and a positive step in bringing Parker's name back to the forefront of Jazz. Parker, who was no relation to Charlie Parker was born in Washington D.C. on April 18, 1925 and died at age 36 in New York on February 11, 1962, dead of a heart attack brought on by a drug overdose. This fine album was never issued until the Blue Note vaults were opened in the 80's. It's a good example of accessible and swinging Jazz with Leo's well organized band of lesser known but excellent players. Lots of blues and jump tunes and Leo's huge toned and distinctive baritone saxophone make "Rollin' With Leo" an enjoyable musical trip. Leo Parker deserves a much more prominent place in the pantheon of baritone saxophonists. The greats as we know are Harry Carney then the modern players like Gerry Mulligan, Serge Chaloff, Cecil Payne, Pepper Adams, Bob Gordon and LEO PARKER!

Broadcast on 22-Nov-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 21:04:00 -0800

Jimmy Knepper was born today in Los Angeles on Nov. 22,1927 and passed away in 2003. Knepper was one of the foremost Jazz trombonists and had an unmistakable style. He wrote and arranged as well and tonight's Feature has all of Jimmy's unique tunes. His most famous association was with Charles Mingus from 1957 to 1962 and he appeared on some of Mingus' most famous classic recordings. Their association ended abruptly in 1962 after a fight but resumed in 1975 when Mingus said that he felt Jimmy was the very best Modern Jazz trombonist. Knepper recorded little under his own name but tonight's Feature is one of Jimmy's definitive recordings. Jimmy hand picked the band and some of his favorite players are here including two from his Mingus days in the persons of "Sir Elf" Roland Hanna on piano and the great Dannie Richmond on drums plus George Mraz on bass and Al Cohn (in magnificent form) on tenor saxophone. All of the compositions are Jimmy's and they are all interesting in that some of them reflect a Mingus influence. The album is called "Cunningbird" and this is the only tune that Jimmy recorded before, all the rest were written for the date which was done in NYC in Nov. 1976. Happy Birthday Mr. Knepper....your music will be with us for a long time.

Broadcast on 15-Nov-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 21:03:00 -0800

Legendary pianist Sonny Clark was a known entity on the Jazz scene for about 9 years. His life was snuffed out by drug addiction and he died in January 1963 at age 31. Originally from a small town near Pittsburg, Clark moved to Los Angeles for a few years and began recording in early 1953. In L.A. he joined clarinetist Buddy DeFranco and toured the US and Europe and became better known. Returning to his base in LA, Clark began to get restless and wanted to return to New York where the action was happening. He took a gig with singer Dinah Washington and got back to The Big Apple. He left Dinah and immediately began working with Sonny Rollins and also signed with Blue Note records. Despite his drug problems, Alfred Lion, the head of Blue note, loved Sonny Clark and gave him many opportunities to record as a sideman and leader. The Feature album is one of Sonny's classics in that it has such a stellar cast: John Coltrane on tenor saxophone, Curtis Fuller on trombone, Donald Byrd on trumpet, Paul Chambers on bass and Arthur Taylor on drums. This recording was done a few weeks after Coltrane's famous "Blue Train" date and three of the participants are here with Clark. Three great standards, arranged by Clark are presented and two distinctive Clark originals. I think you'll agree that "Sonny's Crib" is a classic and typifies the best of New York Jazz from the mid-50's.

Broadcast on 08-Nov-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 21:03:00 -0800

If there were two North American musicians who instinctively understood the subtle and lyrical rhythms of the Bossa Nova it was tenor saxophonist Stan Getz and arranger/composer Gary McFarland. The Bossa Nova (loosely translated "new beat") originated in Brazil and came to America through people like Dizzy Gillespie and guitarist Charlie Byrd who visited Brazil and brought back the concept of the Bossa Nova. Tenor saxophonist Stan Getz and Byrd had already recorded the famous "Jazz Samba" album which reached hit status and this is one of the follow ups and is our Feature album called "Big Band Bossa Nova". The title is pretty self explanatory and the chief soloist is Stan Getz. There are also short solos by guitarist Jim Hall and pianist Hank Jones, valve trombonist Bob Brookmeyer and one has to mention the wonderful drumming of Johnny Rae. McFarland's writing and arranging and his compositions are a perfect match for Jazz master Getz. Big Band Bossa Nova will take you to a nice warm place this cold November night....enjoy the ride!

Broadcast on 01-Nov-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 21:03:00 -0700

Lou Donaldson on this day,November 1, 2010 is 84 years old and is one of the living masters of the alto saxophone and someone who has stylistic ties with Charlie Parker. Lou burst on to the New York scene in 1952 after a stint in the US Navy and was soon recording and working with Thelonious Monk, Milt Jackson, Art Blakey, Clifford Brown and others. From 1955 onward, he has led his own bands and enjoyed a long career. He recorded as a sideman with the great master of the Hammond organ, Jimmy Smith in 1957/58 and liked the instrument and since then has used the organ in his working bands. Tonight's Feature is a Donaldson classic recorded in 1967 with New Orleans cornettist, Melvin Lastie Sr., a young George Benson on guitar, (Dr.)Lonnie Smith on organ and Leo Morris (aka Idris Muhammad) on drums. The album is called "Alligator Bogaloo" and was a good seller when it was issued on Blue Note in 1967 but it's an even better seller today as many djs, hip-hop and rap artists have sampled this album. It's funky, fun and entertaining and has a high level of artistry much like Lou's performances today. Donaldson at 84 is still touring, recording and playing. We should all be grateful he is still with us! Happy Birthday Poppa Lou Donaldson!

Broadcast on 25-Oct-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 25 Oct 2010 21:04:00 -0700

Today (October 25,2010), tenor saxophonist/composer/arranger turns 84. Tonight's Feature is an award winning album that has Jimmy playing his tenor saxophone and having his compositions played by a big band. "Little Man, Big Band" is the title and it's a great tribute to this living link to one of the most important periods in Jazz History. Jimmy Heath is the middle brother of the famous Philadelphia Heaths. His older brother was the late great bassist Percy and his younger brother is the fabulous drummer, Albert (Tootie) Heath. Jimmy is one of the major voices of the tenor saxophone. He also plays flute and soprano saxophone. He is equally famous for his many compositions like "For Minors Only", "Gingerbread Boy", "CTA", "Picture of Heath" etc. that have become Jazz standards. His writing and arranging for big bands is also part of his immense talent. We'll hear all of this on tonight's Feature with this specially assembled big band led by Jimmy. Happy 84th Mr. Heath....your music is forever!

Broadcast on 18-Oct-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 21:03:00 -0700

Tonight is the birthday of one of the finest Jazz singers the world has ever seen except she doesn't get often mentioned when many people discuss Jazz singers. The names Ella, Billie, Sarah and sometimes Carmen are often mentioned but it seems that Anita O'Day is often omitted. Anita IS one of the greats and through her tempestuous life she managed to have many musical successes and was able through her great talent, to reinvent herself many times. One of her classic and finest recordings is tonight's Feature. It combines Anita with the orchestra under the direction of the talented and sadly departed Gary McFarland. McFarland assembled an all-star orchestra and wrote all of the arrangements to feature Miss O'Day. She sings some old tunes done up in very new clothes and some brand new (for the time) material. The album entitled "All The Sad Young Men" was completed in 1961. The centerpiece and title track was the immoral tune by Thomas Wolf and Frances Landesman called "The Ballad of the Sad Young Men", a composition depicting young men going off to war. The theme is universal. Happy Birthday Miss O'Day (born in Chicago on Oct. 18,1919).Your music will live forever and this album represents you at your very best!

Broadcast on 11-Oct-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 11 Oct 2010 21:04:00 -0700

An historic record date done for Atlantic Records on May 14 & 15, 1957 with the l957 edition of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers with Bill Hardman on trumpet, Johnny Griffin on tenor saxophone, James "Spanky" DeBrest on bass and Blakey on drums plus Thelonious Monk on piano. Blakey and Monk were good friends and frequent musical collaborators and Monk agreed to do the date on two conditions, one: that they bring in his favorite bassist, Wilbur Ware to the date and two: that the date be mostly Monk's tunes. Everybody arrived on time save for Ware who showed up too drunk and stoned to play. The date looked like a disaster but Blakey called his regular bassist, Spanky DeBrest to come in and lucky for everyone, Monk liked the young bassist. The date then proceeded but with difficulty as the horn players, as good and talented as they were having difficulty playing Monk's music. Monk was most critical of Bill Hardman but Griffin at least had worked with Monk a few years earlier so had a handle on some tunes. They recorded half the album all night and into the morning of the 15th.....took a break for breakfast then completed three tunes to finish the date. We'll hear some never before released out-takes by the band then the "after breakfast" takes that were released on the original recording and they are Monk's "In Walked Bud" and "Rhythm-a-ning" and Griffin's "Purple Shades". The date is now a classic....enjoy!

Broadcast on 04-Oct-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 04 Oct 2010 21:03:00 -0700

Pianist Walter Bishop Jr. was born in New York of West Indian parentage like many Jazz players (Sonny Rollins, Randy Weston,Arthur Taylor etc.) in 1927 and died in 1998. Bishop was the most swinging and hardest driving of the piano players who came out of the Bud Powell school of playing and there were many. Powell was to the piano what Charlie Parker was to the alto saxophone. Bishop was on the major league Jazz scene in New York from 1947 and played with Art Blakey, Miles Davis and was Charlie Parker's pianist from 1951 to Parker's death in 1955. Ironically Bishop never recorded an album under his own name until this one in 1961. It came out on a small independent label called Jazztime and was called "Speak Low". Walter Bishop displays his wares in fine fashion here with solid backing by Jimmy Garrison on bass and Granville (G.T.) Hogan on drums. The great Canadian Jazz icon Don Thompson told me back in 1961 to buy this album as he said "this is what a piano trio should sound like!" I agree and I think you will too!

Broadcast on 27-Sep-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 21:03:00 -0700

The great trumpeter Freddie Hubbard died at age 70 in 2008 and he is sorely missed to this day. He is a musician who always gave his all every time he picked up his horn. Freddie could play with musicians who were stretching the Jazz language like Ornette Coleman, Eric Dolphy, John Coltrane, Andrew Hill and contribute to their concept and then turn around and play with Art Blakey, Cannonball Adderley and Bill Evans and contribute to their concept. Freddie could play anything and always seemed to play his best in whatever context. Blue Note's owner, Alfred Lion heard Freddie in 1960 at a Monday night jam at Birdland in New York and signed 22 year old Hubbard to a contract which lead us to tonight's Feature. This is Freddie's sophomore album and it's called "Goin' Up". Freddie surrounded himself with seasoned veterans with the exception of a young pianist named McCoy Tyner, who was on Freddie's first Blue Note date, like Hank Mobley on tenor saxophone. Hank also contributed two tunes to the date. On bass and drums were Paul Chambers and Philly Joe Jones....there are none better for the type of music Freddie wanted to present. Trumpet giant Kenny Dorham was also asked by Freddie to contribute two tunes to the date and they are the most exciting tracks of the set. A ballad and a minor key blues by Freddie complete the set. "Goin' Up" is a lesser known classic but one of Hubbard's early best dates.

Broadcast on 20-Sep-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 20 Sep 2010 21:04:00 -0700

As part of The Jazz Show's tribute to Fall and the "back to work/school/grind" syndrome we present Part 2 of our educational and I hope, entertaining Jazz Feature explaining this unique American art form known as Jazz. Maestro Bernstein tells you with musical demonstrations by himself at the piano and guest artists like Duke Ellington, Coleman Hawkins, Buster Bailey, Louis Armstrong etc. what is and what isn't Jazz. The second part is an an analysis of a "standard" tune (Sweet Sue) and the way different artists interpret and improvise on it with people like Phil Woods, Teo Macero and Miles Davis and John Coltrane. Leonard Bernstein is his usual eloquent and lucid self making the learning process fun and educational and will give one a basic idea of what Jazz is all about. Viva Leonard Bernstein!

Broadcast on 13-Sep-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 13 Sep 2010 21:04:00 -0700

This is from a recording done in 1960 for Riverside Records and it is a capsule history of Jazz with recorded examples and snippets of recordings available to Riverside at the time. The narrator is one of the masters of the alto saxophone and great bandleader Julian "Cannnonball" Adderley. It is an enjoyable short history of this great American art form and is Part 1 of a two part Jazz Feature to signal the beginning of a new school year. It is still a very useful disc despite it's date (1960)....it's too bad that Adderley was not called into the studio every five years or so to update this recording but this is all we have. Educational and entertaining.

Broadcast on 06-Sep-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 06 Sep 2010 21:04:00 -0700

Very little need be said about tonight's Jazz Feature except to say that is our way of celebrating Sonny Rollins 80th birthday. He was born in New York on September 7,1930 and is healthy and hale and still performing, recording and touring and of course, documenting his history in interviews and on the web. Mr. Rollins is a living history of Modern Jazz. Tonight's Feature was recorded and issued on Blue Note Records and documents an afternoon and mostly an evening performance at New York's fabled Village Vanguard on November 3, 1957.By this time Rollins was the talk of the Jazz world and emerged as it's most prominent exponent of the tenor saxophone. John Coltrane was at this time still an emerging talent. From the early summer of 1957, Rollins had struck out on his own, first leading a quintet, then a quartet and finally a trio with just bass and drums. This format became his preferred working band until his famous sabbatical in 1959. The afternoon piece featured an obscure bassist named Donald Bailey (not to be confused with the drummer of the same name) and a young New York drummer named Pete LaRoca (Peter Sims)....they play one selection: Dizzy Gillespie's classic; "A Night in Tunisia" then we go to the evening and Sonny is joined by the great self-taught bassist Wilbur Ware and the fiery Elvin Jones on drums. This rhythm section kicks Mr. Rollins into high gear and the rest is Jazz history. This is Sonny at his early peak. A great evening! Happy 80th Mr. Rollins!

Broadcast on 30-Aug-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 30 Aug 2010 21:03:00 -0700

The name Johnny Lytle may not be a household word but he was a very well respected player of the vibraphone. Like one of his mentors, Lionel Hampton, Lytle began his career as a drummer then switched to vibes. His two greatest influences were Lionel Hampton and Milt Jackson. Hampton called Johnny Lytle "the best vibist in the world today" and Milt Jackson said that Johnny had "the fastest hands in the business". Lytle spurned offers from major labels as he did not wish to be dictated to musically and stuck with the independents. He recorded for Jazzland and Riverside, Solid State and Muse. He also preferred to work in small clubs in ghetto neighborhoods. He was born in Springfield, Ohio on October 13, 1932 and died there in on December 15, 1995. He was so well respected and loved in his hometown that there is a street named for him "Johnny Lytle Avenue". Tonight's Feature is a rare recording for the Jazzland label called "Nice and Easy-The Soulful Vibes of Johnny Lytle" He appears here with an all-star group with "The Little Giant", tenor saxophonist Johnny Griffin on all but one of the seven tunes, a mix of standards and original compositions by the members of the group. The rhythm section is stellar with Bobby Timmons on piano, Sam Jones on bass and Louis Hayes on drums. Those of you who are familiar with Cannonball Adderley's great band will remember this rhythm section. All in all this is one of Johnny Lytle's finest recorded moments so sit back, relax and enjoy "Nice and Easy".

Broadcast on 23-Aug-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 23 Aug 2010 21:04:00 -0700

Tonight's Feature is very special as it is one of the few recordings that arranger/composer Gil Evans did under his own name. We all know that he became famous for his four recordings with Miles Davis: "Miles Ahead","Porgy and Bess","Sketches of Spain" and finally "Quiet Nights" but him recordings under his own name were few although he made that up during his later years. This was done in 1964 in several sessions with a hand-picked band and featured some great solo performances by tenor saxophonist Wayne Shorter.alto saxophonist Phil Woods, guitar master Kenny Burrell, trumpeters Thad Jones and Johnny Coles and drummer Elvin Jones, Gil Evans weaves his magic with his orchestrations and piano playing and proves himself to be a musical alchemist of the highest order. "The Individualism of Gil Evans" is an apt title for this masterpiece.

Broadcast on 16-Aug-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 16 Aug 2010 21:02:00 -0700

This band of musicians are the cream of the crop of New York City's "straight-ahead" players. I hate to use that cliche phrase but to expand that a bit I would like to say that the musicians in this band reflect the deep and rich traditions of Jazz music while still remaining modern and relevant. The people involved in this great band called "One For All" have been playing together as a group for over 20 years and when you hear their music you'll understand that fact as the ensembles are tight and beautifully orchestrated to make the three horn front line sound much bigger than it is. There is a huge difference between a one time get-together of great musicians and a band and this is a BAND! The people involved are Jim Rotondi on trumpet and flugelhorn, Eric Alexander on tenor saxophone, Steve Davis on trombone, David Hazeltine on piano, John Webber on bass and the dynamic Joe Farnsworth on drums. When you read these names you will recognize them all as they are some of the most significant voices on their instruments in Modern Jazz. Sit back and enjoy the sounds of "One For All" and their latest offering: "Incorrigible".

Broadcast on 09-Aug-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 09 Aug 2010 21:04:00 -0700

Tonight's feature is special in a way that any Miles Davis recording is special but it's special also because I was there in the audience as a young man on April 21, 1961 at The Blackhawk in San Francisco. Columbia recorded both Friday and Saturday nights (April 21 and 22) and did an exceptional job capturing the sound of this edition of Miles' quintet. Miles on trumpet and the great and usually (until now) underrated Hank Mobley on tenor saxophone, the magical Wynton Kelly on piano, Paul Chambers on bass and the surviving member of this band, the magnificent Jimmy Cobb on drums. We will hear the entire second (and longest) set of Friday evening and experience the way Miles Davis would pace a set. The tunes are: Cole Porter's "All of You", Davis' "Neo" aka "Teo", "I Thought About you", "Bye Bye Blackbird" and "Walkin'". It was a thrill to be there in the audience and everytime I hear these tracks it takes me back to San Francisco and The Blackhawk. Enjoy the set!

Broadcast on 02-Aug-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 02 Aug 2010 21:03:00 -0700

This major Jazz orchestra was the brainchild of one of the leading arrangers and trumpeters in Jazz music: Thad Jones and one of the finest big band drummers: Mel Lewis. It began as a rehearsal band but soon through the efforts of Thad and Mel scored a regular Monday might gig at New York's leading Jazz club, The Village Vanguard. The band soon became an institution and began a series of recordings of which this is it's first live recording. It has become a classic. It was recorded on April 28, 1967. You'll hear stars like Eddie Daniels, Pepper Adams, Bob Brookmeyer, Roland Hanna, Richard Davis, Snooky Young and many more delivering spirited solos and basking in the glory of playing in one of the finest concert Jazz bands in history. After Thad's departure in 1978, Mel Lewis took over exclusive leadership until his passing and to this day it continues every Monday as The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra. Tonight's Feature is it's incredible beginning and what a beginning it is!

Broadcast on 26-Jul-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 26 Jul 2010 21:01:00 -0700

This wonderful recording is led by one of the most distinctive tenor saxophonists in Jazz, Clifford Jordan. Here he leads two quartets each playing original material composed by Jordan himself and the individual band members.The people involved in Quartet #1 are Jordan on tenor saxophone, Stanley Cowell on piano, Bill Lee (Spike Lee's dad) on bass and the great Billy Higgins on drums. One composition by Jordan, two by Cowell and two by Lee are represented. The music is pure, lyrical and organic. Quartet #2 has Jordan and Higgins with Cedar Walton replacing Cowell and Sam Jones replacing Lee. Jordan is represented compositionally by the album's title track (Glass Bead Games) and Walton penned two and a Sam Jones blues (One For Amos) closes the set. Again the music is passionate, organic and unified. It just flows and has a quality that is missing from most Jazz recordings, a great feeling of a band! This music came out on a musician-run label called "Strata-East" and it is now hard to find. It was recorded in New York on October 29,1973 and in those days it was like a breath of fresh air. It is just that today....timeless music and the best of Jazz.

Broadcast on 19-Jul-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 19 Jul 2010 21:04:00 -0700

This is an important document in Jackie McLean's recorded legacy for Blue Note Records, a label he recorded for from 1959 to 1968. McLean, who was a member of the second generation Modern Jazz players who came after Charlie Parker/Dizzy Gillespie/Bud Powell etc., was rooted in the language of what was called "Bebop". McLean in the 60's was open to new influences and of course was listening to Coltrane, Ornette Coleman, Eric Dolphy et al. He absorbed these influences into his own playing and retained his strong identity. His concept and his unique sound broadened and the albums that he recorded during this productive Blue Note period are treasured. Tonight's Feature is called "It's Time" and has McLean and a young trumpeter from Florida named Charles Tolliver who makes his recording debut here. Tolliver composed three compelling tunes for the album as well. McLean composed the remaining three. The energetic rhythm section makes this album really happen and you really can't go wrong with the incredible Herbie Hancock on piano, who at the time of this date (1964) was with Miles Davis. Cecil McBee always seems to get left out when someone mentions great bassists and of course, what can be said about drummer Roy Haynes that hasn't been said before. Haynes is now 84 and still playing with the same energy and creativity as he does on this record. "It's Time" is representative of the best of Jackie Mclean and company, so sit back and enjoy what these master musicians have to offer.

Broadcast on 12-Jul-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 12 Jul 2010 21:01:00 -0700

Pianist/composer Bobby Timmons was responsible for a number of Jazz "hits" like "Moanin', "This Here" aka "Dish Hea", "Dat Dere" and of course he was a master of gospel/blues style piano. The other side of Timmons was his single note style which came from Bud Powell. Both these styles were woven into Timmons' concept. This album despite it's title: "The Soul Man" is more reflective of Timmons' Powell-like approach although his playing is still full of soul and feeling. Timmons is featured with a great band that has Wayne Shorter on tenor saxophone as the sole horn. Wayne was with Miles Davis at the time of this date in January 1966 as was bassist Ron Carter. The redoubtable Jimmy Cobb is on drums. Timmons penned two tunes for the date: The 5/4 opus called "Cut Me Loose Charlie" and "Damned If I Know". Shorter contributed "Tom Thumb": his affectionate name for Timmons. Carter wrote three tunes: "Ein Bahn Strasse" and two that were recorded by Miles Davis: "Tenaj" and "Little Waltz". This is a fine document by a very underrated piano stylist who, although he was recognized when he was with Blakey and Adderley seemed to fade from view and died in relative obscurity in 1974 at age 38. Bobby Timmons: The Soul Man!

Broadcast on 05-Jul-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 05 Jul 2010 21:02:00 -0700

Richard "Blue" Mitchell was one of the most distinctive voices on the trumpet. He came through various r & b bands and paid long dues on the road but in 1958 he joined pianist Horace Silver's great band and never looked back. He began recording under his own name as a leader and sideman and made a wonderful series of recordings for Riverside and Jazzland Records. After playing an important sideman role for the Blue Note label, Blue was signed up by head honcho Alfred Lion. The Jazz Feature tonight is Mitchell's first recording under his name for Blue Note and it's a fine one. The only irony is that for some reason it was never released although given a photo and a catalogue number. Other Mitchell recordings were issued but not this one. It was finally issued in the early 80's after Mitchell's untimely death from cancer in 1979. It's an excellent session with Mitchell in inspired form but the co-star is a young Joe Henderson who not only plays tenor saxophone but contributes two compositions (Step Lightly and Mamacita) and arranged the rest. On alto saxophone is the very unique sound of Leo Wright, Leo embarked for Europe soon after this session and Jazz fans forgot about him. On piano is a young and energetic Herbie Hancock. Gene Taylor on bass and Roy Brooks on drums are Mitchell's buddies from Horace Silver's band. The group is tight, fresh and inspired. "Step Lightly" is a worthy addition to Blue Mitchell's recorded legacy.

Broadcast on 28-Jun-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 28 Jun 2010 21:02:00 -0700

Tonight's Jazz feature is a wonderful recording that was meant for private use. It was recorded by Dave Quarin, a great Vancouver saxophonist who also ran one of Vancouver's finest Jazz clubs: The Cellar. The original Cellar was in existence from 1955 to 1963 and run as a co-operative venture by musicians and artists. The staff was volunteer and only the musicians were paid. Local players were featured and at times the club brought in name players. Such was the case with our Jazz Feature. The great tenor saxophonist, Harold Land took over a wonderful band that had just backed up Sonny Rollins for two weeks in San Francisco and brought them to Vancouver in November 1958. The music was some of the best Jazz that I ever heard as I was there in Nov. 1958....I had just moved to Vancouver and was still in High School but I witnessed the music for three of the four nights they were here. The music was a powerful and distant memory until the tapes of several tunes made the rounds of musicians and eventually ended up at Lonehill Records where all the tunes were collated on a single 80 minute CD with some of the profits of the sales going to the Harold Land Estate. The music is powerful and strong and all of these men are at their creative peak: Harold Land, the leader on tenor saxophone, the legendary Elmo Hope on piano, Scott LaFaro on bass, who eventually made history with Bill Evans and the fine dynamic drumming of Lennie McBrowne complete this incredible quartet. Only two long tunes will make up a complete set: the standard, 'Just Friends' and the Charlie Parker blues called 'Big Foot' plus a short version of the band's theme, Dameron's 'The Scene is Clean'. Powerful music from a legendary band at a now legendary club.

Broadcast on 21-Jun-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 21 Jun 2010 21:02:00 -0700

The music of pianist/composer Armando Anthony "Chick" Corea needs no introduction to most of you. He is a musician extraordinaire who has covered every musical base possible. From "free" avant-guarde Jazz to classical music, it's all the same to Corea. Tonight's Feature is called "Trio Music" and it is mostly that. This is a re-union of three musicians with special chemistry and they are: bassist Miroslav Vitous and drummer Roy Haynes. The selections were recorded during a European tour in September 1984. The set opens with a Corea composition called "The Loop" then we move to two standards woven together: "Summer Night" by Dubin and Warren segueing to Cole Porter's "Night and Day". Solo piano follows this and it's Mr Corea playing Alexander Scriabin's "Prelude #2" and segueing to a Corea creation called "Mock Up". Finally back to the trio with Vitous' composition "Mirovisions". All in all totally inspiring music by three masters. Corea, Vitous and Haynes. Enjoy!

Broadcast on 14-Jun-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 14 Jun 2010 21:02:00 -0700

Tonight's show is always a special one and it is The Jazz Show's tribute to the city of Vancouver's most famous and best attended cultural event: The 2010 Vancouver International Jazz Festival. As is tradition Gavin Walker's guest host and musical selector will be John Orysik, the Media Director for The Coastal Jazz and Blues Society, the organization that brings you The Jazz Festival. All the artists on tonight's show are appearing at this year's Jazz Festival which is marking it's 25th year. Congratulations all around!

Broadcast on 07-Jun-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 07 Jun 2010 21:02:00 -0700

Harold Floyd Brooks, better known as "Tina" (a nickname that he was given because of his small size is a corruption of "Teeny" or "Tiny") was one of the sadder stories in Jazz music. This well respected musician broke into the big time Jazz scene in 1958, after years in anonymous r&b and Latin bands, on a famous recording date with organist Jimmy Smith called "The Sermon". Brooks distinctive sound and blues inflected approach was like no other and Blue Note head honcho Alfred Lion took to Brooks and recorded 4 great sessions with Tina. The only problem was that Lion only released one. The others were never issued until long after Brooks' death in 1974. Brooks only recorded for Blue Note (with one exception) as a sideman and leader from 1958 to 1961. After 1961 he never recorded again. Because of an addiction to hard drugs and general physical dissipation, he stopped playing by the late 60's and died in ill health and abject poverty in 1974. Tonight in celebration of what would have been Brooks' 78th birthday, The Jazz Show is presenting one of his classic recordings. This album was advertised, sequenced, mastered and given a number but never issued. "Back To The Tracks" is a beautiful representation of New York Jazz in the early 1960's before the changes wrought by Cecil Taylor, Ornette Coleman and John Coltrane and others moved the music in a new and different direction. Brooks' strong, lyrical and intense horn is heard at it's best and the band is a stellar all-star group. Along with Brooks on tenor saxophone, there is Blue Mitchell on trumpet, Kenny Drew on piano, Paul Chambers on bass and Arthur Taylor on drums plus on one long track, a cameo appearance by alto saxophone master Jackie Mclean. Happy Birthday to Tina Brooks, who finally got some of the recognition he warranted when he was still alive.Tina brooks was born on June 7,1932 in Fayetteville, North Carolina and died on August 13,1974 in New York.

Broadcast on 31-May-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 31 May 2010 21:02:00 -0700

This hard driving blues based modern Jazz session was co-led by two great products of a Chicago high school named DuSable which had a great music program headed by the legendary "Captain" Walter Dyett. One of the co-leaders is Bennie Green who was one of the early modern trombone masters. Although he isn't treated with the same reverence as J.J.Johnson, Bennie should be recognized as one of the pioneers of Modern Jazz. Gene Ammons is the other co-leader and he is now considered to be one of the major voices of the tenor saxophone. Gene had a huge sound and a way of playing and phrasing that has influenced scores of players. Sadly Bennie died in obscurity in 1977 and Gene passed away in 1974, finally recognized and given stature after being slagged for many years by snobby Jazz critics. Green and Ammons put together a great band for this November 1958 session. The "two Franks" from the Basie band were added in the persons of tenor saxophonist/arranger Frank Foster and tenor saxophonist/flutist Frank Wess. A great added plus was the bright, salty cornet of Nat Adderley. Tommy Flanagan is on piano, Eddie Jones on bass also from the Basie band and Albert "Tootie" Heath is on drums. The tunes are mostly blues based and easy to take but the solos are inspired and the session is coherent and has direction. A good date and a fine showcase for all the talents involved and fun to listen to!

Broadcast on 24-May-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 24 May 2010 21:03:00 -0700

This album was the first domestic release of the music of Charles Mingus in the 70's. Mingus was inactive during the latter half of the 60's. Health and financial problems plus a lack of interest in continuing leading bands and creating music and a general sense of discouragement plagued Mingus during this time. He began playing toward the end of the decade and went on a tour of Europe with a great group and did some fine recordings over there. On his return he was contacted by the great producer Teo Macero to record of Columbia. Macero and Mingus went back a long time as Macero played tenor saxophone with Mingus in the mid-50's. Columbia's budget was big enough for Mingus to put together a dream band (he always wanted to tour and perform with a large orchestra) and play his great compositions and arrangements. The band is huge with too many players to mention here but the chief soloists are Charles McPherson on alto saxophone, Bobby Jones on tenor saxophone, Lonnie Hillyer on trumpet and on one piece called "Hobo Ho", James Moody is featured on tenor saxophone. Mingus is heard on bass and piano. Sy Johnson and Teo Macero conduct the orchestra. Mingus was actively involved in the post-production of this complex and fascinating recording. Just before his death from ALS on January 5,1979, Mingus was asked what was his favourite album of his own works. He unhesitatingly replied "Let My Children Hear Music". You will hear this monumental opus tonight. Mingus forever!

Broadcast on 17-May-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 17 May 2010 21:02:00 -0700

This album aptly titled by Blue Note Records' owner Alfred Lion was called "Swing, Swang, Swingin'". "That's what the guys did and this was one of the most relaxed sessions I ever supervised". This was alto saxophone master Jackie Mclean's first quartet date for Blue Note, a label that he signed with in 1959 after several unhappy years with Prestige. Jackie was with BLue Note from 1959 to 1968 in a very good relationship with a label that saw him go through many alterations and advances of his style which was in early years heavily influenced by Charlie Parker (what alto saxophonist wasn't?). This date shows Jackie at his first level of maturity with added depth to his unique sound and a smoothing out of his ideas which flow much more easily. Most of all he sounds like no one else.....Jackie McLean had arrived. He picked his sidemen well in two old friends that he grew up with in the Sugar Hill area of Harlem in the persons of drummer Arthur Taylor and pianist Walter Bishop Jr. New to New York but with experience playing with Bill Evans, Tony Scott and Lennie Tristano was bassist Jimmy Garrison. Garrison went onto fame as the bassist with Coltrane's "classic quartet". The set consists of 5 standards all fairly common except Irving Berlin's "Let's Face The Music and Dance". Benny Golson's Jazz classic "Stablemates" gets a good reading and the set winds up with a good blues by Jackie called "116th and Lenox", depicting an important intersection in Harlem. As Mr Lion said they came and they did swing and swang and were swingin'! Happy Birthday this May 17th to Jackie Mclean....he would have been 79. Mr. Mclean passed away on March 31,2006.

Broadcast on 10-May-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 10 May 2010 21:02:00 -0700

Tomasz Stanko is not a household word among North American Jazz fans but I'm sure he'll become better known through his various concert appearances at this summer's Jazz festival season with his new band. Stanko is Poland's best known Jazz musician and he has played every kind of Jazz imaginable. He was born in Rzeszow Poland on July 11,1942 into a musical family playing piano and violin but began trumpet studies in 1959 after being inspired by Miles Davis. Stanko has carved a place for himself in Jazz history and now resides in New York. I'm sure he will become more well known to North American audiences. The album that is tonight's Jazz feature is his latest for the ECM label and is called "Dark Eyes". It presents Stanko's new band made up of himself on trumpet, Alexi Tuomarila on piano, Jakob Bro on guitar, Anders Christensen on bass and Olavi Louhivuori on drums. Of the ten compositions, eight are by Tomasz and two are by his former mentor Krzysztof Komeda. The compositions range from introspective and dark to hypnotic and declarative. The music is fascinating and very riveting and grabs one's attention. Tomasz Stanko is a true original and "Dark Eyes" is worthy of your attention.

Broadcast on 03-May-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 03 May 2010 21:02:00 -0700

Pianist Jaki (John) Byard was a genius who played every instrument in the band more than well but we'll always remember him as a great piano player whose style covered the history of Jazz from stride and ragtime to the avant-guard and all the stops in between. Jaki was born in Worcester, MA on June 15,1922 and died in New York on February 11,1999. He was murdered and the case is still one of the NYPD's unsolved mysteries. Jaki recorded prolifically under his own name and as a sideman but he made some of his most significant statements as part of the volatile Charles Mingus Jazz Workshop. Byard composed and arranged as well and Mingus valued his association with Jaki. The Feature tonight was recorded about a year after a fabled tour of Europe with Mingus and he was about to return to the Workshop but he assembled this quartet for some engagements and they were recorded at a little club in West Peabody MA called "Lennie's on the Turnpike" The band was hot that night in April and with the great bassist George Tucker, drum master Alan Dawson and tenor and soprano saxophonist and flutist Joe Farrell, Jaki couldn't go wrong. Byard leads from the piano with cues and shouts to the guys and the music is loose, swinging and inspired and reaches some of the same creative intensity as a Mingus set. Jaki Byard "LIVE!" is an exciting experience....have a good time with this music.

Broadcast on 19-Apr-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 19 Apr 2010 21:03:00 -0700

Gil Evans place in Jazz history was essentially made alongside Miles Davis. Beginning with the famous Miles Davis nonet that recorded for Capital Records in 1949-50 as "The Birth Of The Cool" and then later in the 50's and 60's with a trio of albums recorded by Miles Davis with the Gil Evans Orchestra: "Miles Ahead", "Porgy and Bess" and "Sketches of Spain" and to a lesser extent "Quiet Nights". These collaborations brought fame to Gil Evans and in 1960 he decided to form his own band where he conducted and played piano and through a 6 week engagement at a New York club called The Jazz Gallery in Greenwich Village, he took the band into the studio to record for a new label called "Impulse Records" run at the time by producer extraordinaire, Creed Taylor. They produced this classic statement called "Out Of The Cool". Gil's hand picked band featured some great soloists like trumpeter Johnny Coles ('Little Johnny C'),bass trombonist Tony Studd and trombone great Jimmy Knepper, tenor saxophonist Budd Johnson, underrated guitarist Ray Crawford, powerhouse drummer Elvin Jones and Mr. Evans himself conducting and playing piano. Intricate ensemble passages abound with the use of bassoons, flutes, piccolos etc. Ron Carter is on bass and Charli Persip adds some effective percussion sounds. The tunes are by different composers but all have the Gil Evans touch as he arranged everything here. He wrote two tunes ("La Nevada" and "Sunken Treasure"), there is one by Weill and Brecht ("Bilbao Song"), two by Jazzers Horace Silver and George Russell ("Sister Sadie" and "Stratusphunk") and a beautiful obscure ballad called "Where Flamingos Fly" featuring Jimmy Knepper. All of this adds up to a truly classic album and one of the finest statements by the legendary Gil Evans. Incidentally, Mr Evans was born in Toronto, Canada on May 13,1912 and died in Cuernavaca, Mexico on March 13, 1988 at age 76.

Broadcast on 12-Apr-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 12 Apr 2010 21:02:00 -0700

This album is one of Herbie Hancock's masterpieces and we are featuring this stunning recording to honour one of the most significant musicians of our time: Herbert Jeffery Hancock who was born 70 years ago on this day (April 12) 1940 in Chicago. A child prodigy, Hancock was destined for musical fame from a very early age when he played with the Chicago Symphony orchestra. He was 11 years old!! Hancock was brought to New York by trumpeter Donald Byrd in 1960 and it wasn't long before he signed with Blue Note Records and began a whole series of significant recordings all of which are essential in any Jazz collection. Hancock, in 1963, began a five year stint with Miles Davis which further enhanced his name and influence. "Maiden Voyage" was recorded in March of 1965. The band wasn't a working band but Hancock's mates all were thinking on the same high plain. Trumpeter Freddie Hubbard is stunning here and blends so well with tenor saxophonist George Coleman that they think as one. Ron Carter is on bass and the young Tony Williams, still called 'Anthony' in those days are an incredible rhythm section, swinging and laying a great pulse for the music. Hancock wrote all of the tunes and two have become classics: the title track, "Maiden Voyage" and "Dolphin Dance" are Jazz standards that have been played and recorded by dozens of musicians. This album is the centerpiece of Herbie Hancock's output for Blue Note Records. Hancock is a vital and productive musician today, still creating and performing at a very high level. Today he is a healthy 70 with many more high energy years left. Happy Birthday Mr. Hancock!!!

Broadcast on 05-Apr-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 05 Apr 2010 21:02:00 -0700

A double Feature tonight. We are celebrating what would be tenor saxophonist Stanley Turrentine's 76th birthday, He died in September of 2000 of a stroke. He was born in Pittsburg on April 5,1934. The first part of the Feature will be the title selection from Max Roach's album done in Paris in 1960 called "Parisian Sketches". It was in Roach's band that Stanley and his older brother Tommy, a fine trumpet player, were introduced to the Jazz world so it's fitting that we play this piece. Stanley and Tommy along with Roach, trombonist Julian Priester and bassist Bobby Boswell are the band. We follow with what was Stanley's debut album under his own name done in January of 1960 for the small independent label, Time Records. Max Roach set this date up for Stanley and he, of course plays drums on this along with the great bassist George Duvivier and two wonderful pianists; Tommy Flanagan on four tunes and the legendary Sonny Clark on three. Stanley displays his big sound and unique phrasing here. One can hear the great history of the tenor saxophone in his playing but it is decidedly modern. Stanley uses blues inflections in everything he plays which adds to his appeal. This is his debut album and right from the start you know that he was going to have a great career in Jazz and he did! Seven tunes are heard here and five are by Stanley. The ballad is the beautiful Cahn/Styne tune "Time After Time" and one appealing tune by 'Wild Bill' Strethan Davis called "Stolen Sweets". Enjoy Stanley's first and auspicious debut.

Broadcast on 29-Mar-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 29 Mar 2010 21:02:00 -0700

This recording done by Miles Davis and his "Second Great Quintet" was the first recorded evidence that a musical change was in the air. The quintet, of course, consisted of Wayne Shorter on tenor saxophone, Herbie Hancock on piano, Ron Carter on bass and the amazing Tony Williams on drums. There are only four long tracks on this recording and we'll hear them in chronological order as they were done at different recording sessions for Columbia Records in 1968. The first tune on the set is Wayne Shorter's "Paraphernalia". This is a spacey type tune that also has George Benson added on guitar. Benson is very effective here, The next two compositions are an indication of where the band is going. The second tune is by Tony Williams and is called "Black Comedy". The third composition is a Davis creation that has no theme but has three distinct movements. It is an intense musical experience and it's called "Country Son".The final tune is really indicative of the change in Miles' ideas and points to his direction that he will take on future recordings. A rock beat defines "Stuff" and Carter switches to electric bass and Hancock works in the Fender Rhodes electric piano. This is an indication of Davis' musical future and this recording was the turning point that led to "Filles De Kilimanjaro", "In A Silent Way" and to "Bitches Brew" and on into the 70's. Davis was always in control of his musical odyssey and this recording is a major step.

Broadcast on 22-Mar-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 22 Mar 2010 21:01:00 -0700

George Benson is known today as one of music's superstars. A great instrumentalist/singer/entertainer who began his career as a pure Jazz player but successfully, after adding vocals to his repertoire, crossed over into funk and pop music. He had many major hits and won Grammy Awards and achieved not only fame but fortune. For all that let it be said that when motivated and under the right circumstances Benson, as a guitarist is still one of the very best in the world. He took his fair share of knocks for entering into more lucrative and commercial fields but when the chips are down Benson can PLAY! George is a natural talent born with a great ear. He never learned to read music but can "hear" a tune once and play it and improvise on it. Today (March 22) is his 67th Birthday. He was born in Pittsburg, Pennsylvania. the same city that gave birth to two other great "natural" talents, drummer Art Blakey and pianist Erroll Garner. Benson had begun his career in earnest with organist Jack McDuff and when he left McDuff in 1966, Benson formed his own band made up of himself on guitar, baritone saxophonist Ronnie Cuber, organist Lonnie Smith (now Dr. Lonnie Smith) and various drummers like Jimmy Lovelace, Marion Booker and Billy Kaye. He did two fine albums with this band for Columbia Records and tonight we feature his second called "The George Benson Cookbook". As an added bonus, two tracks on this album have the great trombonist Bennie Green as guest artist. It's a fun and entertaining Jazz record and shows that even in 1966 George Benson was #1. Happy Birthday Mr. Benson......Boss Guitarist.

Broadcast on 15-Mar-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 15 Mar 2010 21:01:00 -0700

This recording was the second album recorded in 1966 for Blue Note by the iconoclastic pianist/composer Cecil Taylor. Taylor's music has always posed a challenge to the listener as his music is dense and often seems arrhythmic. His ensembles or bands that he calls "Units" pose even more of a challenge. Not only does the listener have to hear Taylor's always busy playing but one has to hear the bassists and drummers as well as the horns that weave in and out and solo at length. This recording features members of his working unit. The wonderful alto saxophonist Jimmy Lyons is heard to good advantage here. Lyons was to Taylor what Charlie Rouse was to Thelonious Monk. Trumpeter Bill Dixon, who along with Taylor was one of the movers and shakers of so-called avant-guard Jazz was not a regular Unit member but he fit so well with Lyons in the ensemble passages and solos very effectively. Two bassists work hand in glove with Alan Silva playing mostly arco (bowed) and Henry Grimes plucking the bottom lines. Drummer Andrew Cyrille understands Taylor's unique rhythmic sence. Taylor many years before this recording had abandoned 4/4 time and other Jazz signatures and yet his music pulses with rhythms. "Conquistador" IS a challenge but if you listen to Taylor's music with the same intensity that he delivers it you will be amply rewarded. There is lyricism and beauty in this recording and all it need is your ears. Taylor was 81 on March 15,2010 and he is still creating and performing....Happy Birthday Cecil!

Broadcast on 08-Mar-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 08 Mar 2010 22:32:00 -0800

This Feature is a tribute to National Woman's Day and this Orchestra led by Maria Schneider is one of the leading Jazz organizations of today. Maria's music reflects her creativity and her influences which include the great master Gil Evans. Her orchestra is full of all-star players like trumpeter Ingrid Jenson,Steve Wilson on alto and soprano saxophones, tenor saxophonist Rich Perry, guitarist Ben Monder, Frank Kimbrough, piano, Clarence Penn on drums and so many others. Her music is evocative, moody and always full of wonderful colours and textures and this award winning album called "Sky Blue" is her best at this point. We'll hear four compositions as our Feature.....the music of The Maria Schneider Orchestra.....The Jazz Show's tribute to International Woman's Day.

Broadcast on 01-Mar-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 21:05:00 -0800

This short-lived quintet led by tenor saxophone master Hank Mobley and pianist Cedar Walton constituted one of Mr. Mobley's final documentation on record. It was done in New York on February 22,1972. Hank was one of the most prolifically consistent musicians of the 50's and 60's and recorded dozens of fine albums mostly for Blue Note Records and also for Prestige and Savoy. Hank was a charter member of The Jazz Messengers, and worked with Max Roach a few times but was most prominent when he worked with Miles Davis from 1960 to 1962. His recorded output is tremendously consistent and his compositions fill most of these albums...the finest being on Blue Note. Hank made his last album for that label in 1970. After that, illness, affecting his lungs and deterioration from drugs and alcohol ruined his health. The Feature album, with this group marked his penultimate appearance on records. This fine band made up of Hank and Cedar included the unique voice of the baritone and soprano saxophones, Charles Davis, plus the fiery rhythm section of bassist Sam Jones and drummer Billy Higgins. All of the players have their feature moments on this album. Davis on baritone is featured on "Sabia" by A.C. Jobim, Walton gets a trio track and plays Henry Mancini's "Theme From Love Story". Hank Mobley's feature is his take on the Gershwin's "Summertime". Two great Mobley compositions are included here also: the opening title track is a burner and "Early Morning Stroll" cooks at a slightly lower flame. There are many wonderful moments throughout this record and we'll hear them all. The final track on the Hank Mobley Feature is his final recorded appearance. He guested on one tune on a date with Catalonian pianist Tete Montoliu with bassist George Mraz and drummer Al Foster....Hank plays "Autumn Leaves". This was recorded in 1980. Hank Mobley died on May 30,1986 of ill health and in poverty, he was only 56. After his passing, whole generations of young musicians recognized Mr. Mobley as one of the musical giants of the last century and not only as a saxophonist who can sit alongside Coltrane and Rollins but a fine composer as well.

Broadcast on 22-Feb-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 22 Feb 2010 21:02:00 -0800

This Feature is a large orchestral piece written by Boris (Lalo) Schifrin that features Dizzy Gillespie as chief soloist. It was Lalo's last contribution to Dizzy's music after spending two years with Mr. Gillespie as his pianist and arranger. Lalo, of course had written the more famous "Gillespiana Suite" for Dizzy but this six movement piece is much more of an orchestral excursion and is much more about Lalo than Dizzy. It features the Gillespie quintet of the time (Dizzy, James Moody, Chris White on bass and Rudy Collins on drums) with a large orchestra filled with Jazz playing studio players like Al Porcino and Conte Candoli, Phil Woods, Bill Perkins, Frank Rosolino, Mel Lewis and so many more. In all a 27 piece orchestra. The eminent Benny Carter conducts the band and the date was produced in Hollywood by Quincy Jones and the suite was introduced at the 1962 Monterey Jazz Festival. It was issued on Limelight Records (a subsidiary of Mercury records) and remains unissued on CD. The composition is a tribute to Gillespie in that it musically acknowledges Dizzy's contribution to Jazz, other than being a ground breaking trumpeter, as a person who was able to introduce other musics into the mainstream of Jazz. Dizzy was the first to bring Afro-Cuban concepts into Jazz in the 1940's. He brought Middle Eastern concepts and ideas into Jazz and was the first to bring the Brazilian form, the Bossa Nova into Jazz music's mainstream. This is what "The New Continent" is about. Aside from Gillespie, we hear solos by Larry Bunker on vibes, Al Henrickson on guitar, Frank Rosolino on trombone and from Schifrin himself on piano. The real star is the orchestra which navigates of the changing moods with ease. If you use your imagination you can create your own movie from the various themes, moods and tempos of this amazing piece. This album was the last collaboration between Lalo Schifrin and Dizzy Gillespie and it's a fitting farewell.

Broadcast on 15-Feb-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 15 Feb 2010 21:02:00 -0800

This album which was recorded for a small independent label on October 21,1955 was alto saxophonist Jackie McLean's first under his own name. The label was "Ad-Lib Records" and it was the only album ever issued on that label. A pristine copy of the original LP commands several thousands of dollars on the collector's market. It was re-issued several times on LP on Jubilee, Roulette, Josie and Trip and can be found on CD on the Spanish "Fresh Sounds" label. Jackie McLean was in 1955 one of the first post-Parker alto saxophonists to establish his own voice. He took the raw blues tinged side of Parker and turned it into his own distinctive style. Mclean's sound was all his from the beginning and his angular phrasing. violent blue notes distinguished him from others. As he grew his reliance on Parker-based phrases grew less apparent. He described his sound as having "no artificial sweetening".His intonation and his frequently violent note emphasis raised some hackles with the critics but Jackie chased his own musical vision. It's evident from the mature statement on this recording that McLean was ready for the big leagues. McLean picked his sidemen well for this date: trumpeter Donald Byrd, fresh from Detroit was long an associate of Mclean's on record dates and gigs and pianist Mal Waldron was at this time Jackie's favorite pianist. Waldron was a New Yorker like Jackie and they had played together for a long time and it was Mal that talked Charles Mingus into letting Jackie join the Mingus Jazz Workshop in late 1955. Doug Watkins on bass was a recent arrival in New York via Detroit and he was playing with the Jazz Messengers at the time. Ronald Tucker was one of the many fine drummers around new York at the time and this happens to be his only recorded appearance. He acquits himself very well and swings hard and has good taste. Two good standards feature the group sounding very cohesive. One ballad, featuring Mr. McLean is "Lover Man"....a tip of the hat to Billie Holiday and Charlie Parker, who both made the definitive versions of that tune. A slow blues called "Blue Doll" much like the mood of "Parker's Mood". McLean's first recording of his composition dedicated to his newborn daughter called "Little Melonae" and a lyrical original by pianist Mal Waldron called "Mood Malody". A fine debut by one of the most original voices of the alto saxophone....Mr. John Lenwood (Jackie) McLean (1931-2006).

Broadcast on 08-Feb-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 08 Feb 2010 21:03:00 -0800

Charles Mingus' "Tijuana Moods" is one of his acknowledged classics. It was recorded in July and August 1957 by one of his best "Jazz Workshops". Mingus called all of his bands "The Jazz Workshop". Strangely it was not released until 1962 on RCA Victor and Mingus called it "the best record I ever made". The original LP was full of rather ham-fisted edits but the music was so strong that we lived with them and simply ignored them. When the digital revolution happened and a creative producer named Ed Michael went into the RCA archives and discovered that Tijuana Moods had many alternate and almost complete takes. Michael put together an "alternate" version of the five tunes that made up the original album basically maintaining the structure and syntax of the tunes. This happened in 1985, six years after Mingus' death. Mingus, I think would have been pleased with the alternate results and the edits are seamless due to the digital process. The music represents a trip that Mingus and drummer Dannie Richmond took to that border town after Mingus' wife told Charles she wanted a divorce. The band is one of Mingus' finest editions of The Jazz Workshop and the people involved are Clarence "Gene" Shaw on trumpet, Shafi Hadi (aka Curtis Porter) alto (mostly) and tenor saxophone, Jimmy Knepper on trombone, Bill Triglia on piano, Dannie Richmond on drums and of course Mingus on bass. Some effects are provided by Ysabel Morel on wordless vocal and Frankie Dunlop on castanets. There are five tunes, the first four are by Mingus and the album ends quietly with a beautiful rendition of the old standard "Flamingo", featuring Shaw's trumpet. All in all this album ranks with Mingus' best and thanks to the good work of Ed Michael, we can hear "The Alternate Tijuana Moods".

Broadcast on 01-Feb-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 01 Feb 2010 21:03:00 -0800

The Jazz Show's tribute to Black History Month is the famous Max Roach recording called "The Freedom Now Suite". This was one of the first politically charged albums that reflect the leader's growing awareness of the civil rights movement that was erupting in the U.S. in the late 1950's. Mr. Roach's basic ensemble includes trumpeter, Booker Little, tenor saxophonist Walter Benton, trombonist Julian Priester and bassist James Schenk. Abbey Lincoln is extraordinary on her vocals and Coleman Hawkins, the "father of the tenor saxophone" makes a cameo appearance on "Driva' Man", the opening tune. The final two pieces are by the full ensemble augmented by two percussionists and the great Micheal Olatunji on vocal and African drums. The centerpiece of the album if a duet in three parts called "Prayer, Protest and Peace" with Miss Lincoln and Max Roach. The album was recorded in 1960 and to this day stands as a monument to the creativity and political stance of one of the greatest drummers in Jazz, the late Max Roach. I should add that the lyrics of this were written by Oscar Brown Jr. and all the music was written by Mr. Roach. "We Insist! Freedom Now Suite".

Broadcast on 25-Jan-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 21:03:00 -0800

The late Wynton Kelly was one of the best loved pianists in Jazz. His chief era of fame was when he replaced Bill Evans in Miles Davis' ground breaking quintet. Kelly joined in 1959 and played through to 1962. He then toured with bassist Paul Chambers and drummer Jimmy Cobb after they both left the Davis fold. Kelly had a beautiful touch on the piano and there was an innate joy and lyricism in his playing plus a great blues feel. Kelly knew how to accompany singers, he worked a long time with the great Dinah Washington.Horn players loved him and he was a sideman on many important record dates. His output under his own name was rather sparse but he did put out great trio recordings. This date is a bit different as it features two then young horn players. Trumpeter Lee Morgan was only 21 when he did this session in August of 1959 but he was already a veteran having played with Dizzy Gillespie's big band and was member of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers. Tenor saxophonist Wayne Shorter shows a very adventurous side to his playing on this, his first time in the recording studio. He soon became a member of the Messengers not long after this session. Bassist Paul Chambers and the great Philly Joe Jones on drums were Kelly's favourites and they add to the energy of this session. Kelly, as always, is elegant and superb and that's why the ablum is called "Kelly Great!". Five tunes make up the date; two by Shorter (his first recorded compositions), one by Kelly (a blues) and one by Morgan plus an obscure standard called "June Night" that has a great bounce feel. One fine date in the life of Wynton Kelly and the Feature tonight. Wynton Kelly died quite young of a heart attack brought on by an epileptic fit....he was only 39 on April 12,1971 and was mourned throughout the Jazz world.

Broadcast on 18-Jan-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 21:03:00 -0800

This is considered to be Clifford Jordan's debut album. His earlier appearance on the Blue Note label was a co-led two tenor saxophone session with John Gilmore. This rare recording has never had a domestic re-release but was first issued as Blue Note 1565 and called "Cliff Jordan". It features the very distinctive sound of Jordan's tenor saxophone with the young teen-aged trumpet sensation Lee Morgan on three tracks. Curtis Fuller on trombone and Jordan's high school classmate, the legendary alto saxophonist John Jenkins. Ray Bryant is on piano, Paul Chambers on bass and Arthur Taylor on drums. The first two tunes are without Morgan and then tune #3 is a composition by Lee and was his first recorded tune called "Ju-Ba". The full band is featured on the final two tunes, Jenkins reworking of Miles Davis' "Milestones" (the early version) and an up=tempo interpretation of one of the day's pop tunes called "Beyond The Blue Horizon". Clifford Jordan spread the chores out wisely and came up with a very representative album of New York Jazz from the mid 1950's. This fine recording deserves a domestic re-issue in stereo. It's a fine tribute to the artistry of the late Clifford Jordan, who passed away in 1993.

Broadcast on 04-Jan-2010

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 21:03:00 -0800

Bassist/composer Charles Mingus was one of Jazz music's icons and an amazing larger than life musician and character. His working bands were called "The Charles Mingus Jazz Workshop" and the personnel changed sometimes very quickly. The term "Jazz Workshop" gave Mingus carte blanche to experiment on the bandstand sometimes stopping in mid tune to berate a soloist or change a part. If a member of the audience complained Mingus would say, "read the sign outside man.......it says Jazz Workshop....dig it?" Mingus had some great bands and some that approached greatness and the band on tonight's Feature was the core of one of his greatest bands. This was part of a concert from January 1959 recorded at New York's Nonagon Art Gallery and featured the recording debuts of two newcomers to the New York scene. Alto saxophonist John Handy from the Bay Area and tenor saxophonist Booker Ervin, who was working as a dishwasher at the Automat and sitting-in around town. Handy and Ervin (both born in Texas) blended together so well and although Mingus' regular pianist was called away the day before the gig for a family emergency, San Franciscan, Richard Wyands, on the recommendation of Handy substituted very well. Dannie Richmond on drums and Mingus on bass think as one and swing and drive the piano and the horns. 45 minutes of this concert have been preserved for us to enjoy. This was the first milestone and the core band that brought Mingus out of the Jazz underground and into the forefront of recognition and acceptance as one of the most formidable musical forces in Jazz and creative music.

Broadcast on 28-Dec-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 21:04:00 -0800

Tonight's Feature is by clarinettist/tenor saxophonist Jimmy Giuffre. Giuffre was a musician who had a very wide range and was not restricted to any one style, yet everything he did was marked by a strong individual identity. This recording, done at the legendary New York club, The Five Spot, marked another change for Giuffre. Gone was the quiet, blues and folk based trio. This is a blowing date and Giuffre makes the most of it with this hand picked group of players. Jimmy's clarinet is featured on three tunes and even there the difference is apparent as Jimmy explores the instrument's full range rather than just the low register as he had done in the past. His tenor work is hard driving and intense and he obviously was listening to Rollins and Stitt. Jimmy is no slouch on tenor and he blows up a storm on three pieces. Jim Hall on guitar had just moved to New York and his fine work here foreshadows his work with Sonny Rollins the following year. Buell Neidlinger is strong on bass and shows that he can work in a "straight-ahead" context. Buell had been working with Cecil Taylor when this date was done. Billy Osborne was just one of the many fine and lesser known drummers around New York at the time. Billy played with everybody but never got on very many record dates. The same fate befell guys like Sir John Godfrey and Clarence "Scoby" Stroman and others. Billy also suffered a discographical error as he was listed as "Billy Higgins" in most books. Discographer Tom Lord corrected this .The tunes are two standards played on clarinet plus a Giuffre original called "The Quiet Time". The tenor tunes are Monk's "Wee See", Giuffre's "Two For Timbuktoo" and "The Crab". This rare date originally came out on Verve and was called "In Person". Enjoy another side of Jimmy Giuffre tonight.

Broadcast on 21-Dec-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 21:05:00 -0800

This truly classic date was recorded on Christmas Eve 1954 and somehow, although not intended has a distinctive "Christmasy" feel to it. The date was really put together by the owner of Prestige Records, Robert (Bob) Weinstock. He had two best sellers under contract, Miles Davis and The Modern Jazz Quartet. He approached Miles Davis about the date and Miles was excited and pleased and expected to record with Milt Jackson, Percy Heath and Kenny Clarke and perhaps his close friend, John Lewis on piano, all members of the MJQ. If not Lewis, perhaps Horace Silver, another favorite of Miles. Weinstock threw a curve at Miles and said, Jackson, Heath and Clarke are on but the pianist will be Thelonious Monk. Weinstock asserted that he needed Monk to perform and record with some of the "best sellers". Miles was not pleased but Weinstock said either Monk or no date. After a long uncomfortable silence between Weinstock and Davis....Miles agreed to the date, He needed the money and liked all the other players. He liked and respected Monk as well but didn't enjoy playing with him but figured he could get around this in a musical way. The date came off beautifully despite the tension between the two men and Monk compromised by not accompanying Davis during his solos except for one tune which was Monk's. The tunes are "Bags' Groove", a blues by Jackson, "Bemsha Swing" by Monk,"Swing Spring" by Davis and the Gershwin's "The Man I Love". plus two alternates of Bags' Groove and The Man I Love. This session was how these gentlemen felt at the time and they had no idea that this date would become one of the bellwethers of Modern Jazz but it has and will remain a classic forever.

Broadcast on 14-Dec-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 21:02:00 -0800

Jack DeJohnette is one of the most extraordinary musicians to come along in the last 45 or so years. Jack was born in Chicago and came to New York in 1964 as an accomplished drummer and pianist. He was discovered by the great alto saxophone master Jackie Mclean and then went on to work with Charles Lloyd, Miles Davis, Stan Getz, Bill Evans, Freddie Hubbard and countless others. Jack and pianist Keith Jarrett worked with Charles Lloyd and their musical bond has remained to this day as the formidable trio of Jarrett, bassist Gary Peacock and DeJohnette is one of today's premier groups. DeJohnette first began recording under his own name in 1968 and his output has reflected a very eclectic taste. DeJohnette's recordings have explored anything musical but this band called "Special Edition" is amazing. This is their first recording and it is indeed a classic in the best sense of the word. The Special Edition band continued throughout the 80's and 90's with changing personnel but this first recording done in March of 1979 was one of their best. David Murray is heard on tenor saxophone and bass clarinet, Arthur Blythe on alto saxophone and Peter Warren on bass make up the band. DeJohnette is heard mostly on drums, of course, but we also hear him on piano and melodica. Three of the compositions are Jack's and two are Coltrane classics, "Central Park West" and "India". "Special Edition" was indeed very special.

Broadcast on 07-Dec-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 21:02:00 -0800

"Mulligan Meets Monk" is tonight's Feature. It's premise is simple, a meeting of two great original minds. Monk, of course and Mulligan, one of the most identifiable voices of the baritone saxophone. In 1957 they were neighbors and friends and spent time at each others homes. Gerry, who was no slouch at the piano would play duets with Monk for their own enjoyment. Savvy producer Orrin Keepnews knew of their relationship and since he couldn't record the existing Monk quartet with John Coltrane as Coltrane was under exclusive contract with another label, Keepnews opted to ask Monk if he would like to do an album with Gerry Mulligan. Monk said "sure,man"....and the album was born. Monk's rhythm section with Wilbur Ware on bass and the great "Shadow" Wilson on drums was used and they as well as Monk prodded Gerry into some wonderful playing. The date went down smoothly in two afternoon sessions. Four Monk tunes were used including, at Gerry's request, "Round Midnight". One Mulligan original and one standard that Monk liked completed the date. The recording was released in late 1957 and reviewed favorably in Down Beat Magazine with 4 and a half stars out of five. While some critics and musicians cried "mismatch" and "failure",the record stands the test of time and is a warm swinging, conversational date that was, as Gerry put it, "fun to play and I hope, fun to listen to". I think you'll agree.

Broadcast on 30-Nov-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 21:02:00 -0800

Trombonist/composer Grachan Moncur 111 was born in New York on June 3,1937 and raised in Newark. He is still alive, playing,writing and teaching. Grachan played in Nat Phipps' band when he turned pro then played with Ray Charles' fine little band for 2 and a half years where he really developed his skills as a player. He then joined the Jazztet, a fine band led by Art Farmer and Benny Golson and was the last trombonist in that group before it's final breakup in 1962. After a brief return to the Charles' band, Grachan joined the ranks of New York's progressive scene in the mid-60's. Grachan, alto saxophonist Jackie McLean and young vibist Bobby Hutcherson formed a band with different people in the rhythm section and gigged around New York. Grachan wrote most of the band's material and they recorded McLean's famous album, "One Step Beyond". Alfred Lion of Blue Note Records was impressed with Grachan's writing and playing and gave him a two record contract. Grachan's first album was this one called "Evolution" and he, of course, used Mclean and Hutcherson along with bassist Bob Cranshaw and the teenaged drum sensation Anthony (Tony) Williams. The most surprising addition was trumpeter Lee Morgan, who almost steals the show on this album. Morgan had verbally criticized some of the new sounds emerging in the 1960's and yet was very open to the music of this album and Moncur's compositions. There are only four tunes here but they are all strong statements expressing all different moods and evoke different feelings from the players and will do the same to you, the listener. "Evolution" was a very impressive recording debut for Grachan Moncur 111 and stands today as a classic in creative musical thinking.

Broadcast on 23-Nov-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 21:06:00 -0800

Keith Jarrett is one of the most extraordinary musicians of our time and can rightly be called a genius. Born on May 8,1945, he was a child prodigy, playing professionally when he was a child of 8 years. He has worked with Art Blakey, Charles Lloyd and Miles Davis and with his own bands. His trio with bassist Gary Peacock and drummer Jack DeJohnette is one of the premier trios in the history of this music. Jarrett has performed solo concerts since 1973. At first they were non-stop improvisations and some were classics and best sellers like the famous "Koln Concert". His approach to solo playing has changed as he now plays moods that are divided up. They are all totally improvised. Jarrett clears his head of extraneous thoughts and begins to play. The mood can be rhythmic and roiling or pastoral and romantic or lyrical or introspective and sad. Everything is open to Mr. Jarrett and that's what you will hear tonight......"Testament" recorded in late November and early December 2008 in Paris and London on a 3 CD set from ECM Records.

Broadcast on 16-Nov-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 21:04:00 -0800

One of the most startling debuts in Jazz history was this album by Jeremy Steig. Steig, who is the son of the great cartoonist William Steig plays flute. He doesn't double on any other instrument and developed his own sound and concept on the flute. Jeremy didn't consider the flute a delicate instrument but one that could hold it's own with the saxophone or trumpet. Steig, who was born in New York on September 23,1942 is still alive and well and playing, entered the Jazz world with this album called "Flute Fever". It was produced by John Hammond and mysteriously has never been issued on CD. Steig was subject to a lot of criticism for his maverick approach to the instrument but he had many supporters including the great pianist, Bill Evans, who was a fine flute player himself. Marking his debut was Jeremy's pianist, Denny Zeitlin who did score a Columbia Records contract after his performance here. Denny is still alive and well and performs around the San Francisco Bay Area with his trio. Steig and Zeitlin are ably supported by two pros, bassist Ben Tucker and drummer Ben Riley. I'm sure you will be moved and occasionally startled by the outgoing playing of Steig and the ceativity of Denny Zeitlin on this great 1963 recording of "Flute Fever".

Broadcast on 09-Nov-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 21:04:00 -0800

Prince Lasha (William Lawsha) is the leader on this date and it features his close associate, alto saxophonist Sonny Simmons, one of the most distinctive voices on that horn. This album, done for the Contemporary label in November of 1962 and was their recording debut.It was called "The Cry!". Lasha (pronounced Lashay) and Simmons had struggled to get into Jazz clubs and perform their music and as it was a departure from the mainstream of the time it wasn't accepted with open ears. Lasha, from Fort Worth, grew up and went to school with Ornette Coleman and the music here reflects some of Coleman's influence. The compositions are all collaborations by Lasha and Simmons. Like Coleman's early recordings, no piano is used and the rhythm section here for most part is provided by two bassists and drums. Gary Peacock is one of the bassists and is very well known and the other is Mark Proctor. The creative drumming is by the unknown Gene Stone. Lasha, who plays flute throughout the session died last summer. He also played alto and baritone saxophones and a variety of clarinets, including the rare alto clarinet. Simmons is still with us and travels the world playing anywhere he can with a variety of players and is still a mighty voice on the alto saxophone. After this recording took place, Lasha and Simmons headed for New York and were embraced by John Coltrane and sat in with his band a lot. They recorded with Eric Dolphy and Herbie Hancock and did a great album with Coltrane's rhythm section of McCoy Tyner, Jimmy Garrison and Elvin Jones called "Illumination" on Impulse. They also embarked on separate careers but re-united off and on into the 1980's. "The Cry! was the debut for Prince Lasha and Sonny Simmons and it's a minor classic and very accessible and creative.

Broadcast on 02-Nov-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 21:04:00 -0800

The great alto saxophonist Phil Woods left North America with his family in 1968, bitter and discouraged by the developments in the USA. When he landed in France for a playing engagement he formed this band that he called The European Rhythm Machine. It marked a creative re-birth for Woods. The Rhythm Machine heard tonight delivered this incredible performance at the Frankfurt Jazz Festival in March of 1970. There had been only one change in personal. The original pianist, George Gruntz was replaced by a Britisher, Gordon Beck, who was adept on both acoustic and electric piano. The bassist was a French virtuoso named Henri Texier and the drummer was the Swiss master Daniel Humair. The energy that this band puts out is powerful and exciting and left the German audience exhausted. This is truly one of the most original and powerful bands in Jazz history. Phil Woods is at his creative peak playing everything under the sun and the chemistry of this band is unbelievable. Mr. Woods celebrated his 78th birthday on the day of this broadcast (November 2,2009) so this Feature is really a Happy Birthday salute to one of the living Jazz masters.

Broadcast on 26-Oct-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 21:02:00 -0700

Virtuoso bassist Richard Davis leads an adventurous band recorded at the short lived New York club called "Jazz City" on September 7,1972 on but two long tunes. The record's title explains what the tunes are. Davis, who had a long career in Jazz and classical music, he was only the second African-American to be employed in a symphony orchestra in the mid 1960's. He played in the New York Philharmonic under Leonard Bernstein and was singled out for praise by none other than Igor Stravinsky. Davis, who recorded very little under his own name leads an all-star band here with the great tenor saxophonist, Clifford Jordan playing some of his most adventurous work. Marvin "Hannibal" Peterson is on trumpet, a strong declarative player who could shout and whisper on the horn. He wasn't nicknamed "Hannibal" for nothing. Joe Bonner on piano plays everything from Powell through to Cecil Taylor and Freddie Waites on drums can be abstract and swinging at the same time. Freddie also plays some percussion and wind instruments like the wooden flute and other devices. The two tunes are given very very broad interpretations far beyond what their composers imagined. Monk's "Epistrophy" is given a very abstract interpretation and Charlie Parker's "Now's The Time" is a bit more grounded as it's the blues. Richard Davis said this about the music: "the idea here was to just play sounds and music"........that's exactly what they did to a full and enthusiastic house that night.

Broadcast on 19-Oct-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 21:04:00 -0700

This rare item is untypical of the type of session that Prestige Records put out in the 50's. The head honcho of Prestige was Robert Weinstock and he preferred the "one take" jam session approach as he felt that too many "takes" would spoil the feel. Vibist/composer/bandleader Teddy Charles produced a number of Prestige recordings in the 50's and his sessions were much more organized and rehearsed yet still sounded spontaneous. Perhaps Teddy encouraged his musicians to rehearse or perhaps he paid them to do this but it worked and a Charles produced session was always well organized and he always contributed some of his own compositions to the date. This one features, as the title suggests four alto saxophonists. All of these men were in one way or another influenced by Charlie Parker but they had their own identities and sounds. Phil Woods is still with us and is the most identifiable voice and is arguably the most developed stylist. The wonderful and passionate Gene Quill plays with great swing. Sahib Shihab is on tap and although he reflects Parker, his sound is influenced by some earlier players like Tab Smith. Hal Stein, who worked with Teddy Charles and Charles Mingus is a thoughtful and cliche-free player. These four men blend into a great sound and are backed by Mal Waldron on piano who also contributes two compositions to the date. Tommy Potter is solid on bass and a very young, 19 year old Louis Hayes mans the drums.Teddy Charles contributes two tunes and arranges Hal Stein's "Kinda Kanonic" and the ballad of the date Jimmy McHugh's "Don't Blame Me". Waldron arranges his own two tunes. All in all a fun and well organized date that swings and and is interesting at the same time. "Four Altos" indeed!

Broadcast on 12-Oct-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 21:01:00 -0700

This fine recording was made just a few days before multi-instrumentalist Yusef Lateef joined the renowned Cannonball Adderley group expanding it's size to a sextet. "Into Something" done for Prestige/New Jazz was a straight forward date with none of the exotic effects and instruments that Lateef used on previous outings. The first three tunes feature the huge toned Lateef tenor saxophone with just bass (Herman Wright) and drums(Elvin Jones) ala Sonny Rollins. Next up, piano great Barry Harris joins the trio making it a foursome and Lateef switches to flute for a fine interpretation of "I'll Remember April" then to oboe for a slow blues dedicated to his young son Rasheed. He returns to the tenor for the final two tunes, the beautiful ballad made famous by Billie Holiday, "You've Changed" and a final Lateef original called "P Bouk". You will find many profound moments in this rather unpretentious session because each of these gentlemen are Jazz masters.

Broadcast on 05-Oct-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 21:03:00 -0700

Larry Young was one of the most individual voices of the Hammond organ. Larry was born in Newark, New Jersey on Oct. 7,1940 and sadly died at age 37 in March of 1978 of untreated pneumonia. Young was only 20 when he signed with Prestige Records. He made a series of albums in the style of his idols, Jimmy Smith, Jack McDuff and John Patton but when he signed with Blue Note Records in 1964, he left that blues drenched style for something much more modern, although he still addressed the blues. His sound, technique and footwork on the Hammond is masterful. This is his first album for Blue Note and Young chose his sidemen well. Grant Green is on guitar playing in a more modern style than we're used to hearing him. The great Elvin Jones works hand in glove with Young and the edgy tenor saxophone is played by the individual and creative Sam Rivers. Into Somethin' indeed!

Broadcast on 28-Sep-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 28 Sep 2009 21:03:00 -0700

"Jazz Guitar" is a minor classic as it was Jim Hall's first recording under his own name. Hall chose to be accompanied by just piano and bass making this a "living room" trio. He chose well. The pianist is the legendary Carl Perkins who although he couldn't read music and was self taught was a very sophisticated and technically fluent pianist. He could hear a piece just once and have it down pat! He sadly died in April 1958 of a drug overdose. The bassist is the great Keith "Red" Mitchell. Mitchell was one of the few bassists that Charles Mingus loved and respected. In other words a "perfect" Jazz trio. Hall's sound is so earthy and distinct and his phrasing, swinging and sure. This was Hall's real first step to greatness....."Jazz Guitar".

Broadcast on 21-Sep-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 21:03:00 -0700

This is Part 2 of The Jazz Show's "back to school" mode. Maestro Leonard Bernstein is arguably one of the most important musical icons of the 20th century and being American born, he heard Jazz music from the time he was very young. Bernstein loved Jazz and it's players and most importantly, respected those players as artists. Bernstein recorded this album in 1957 but it's message is universal and timeless. There are a few quaint references, of course that are dated but they don't affect this disc's message. It's basically in two parts. In Part 1, Bernstein tells us what is and what isn't Jazz and what gives Jazz music it's distinctive sound.In Part 2 Bernstein takes apart an old standard tune called "Sweet Sue, Just You" and we hear how musicians of different eras interpret and alter this melody. Bernstein is entertaining, funny and educational at the same time. His great communicative skills are evident throughout this recording. Sit back and enjoy "What is Jazz".

Broadcast on 14-Sep-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 21:03:00 -0700

Julian "Cannonball" Adderley was, of course, one of the premier alto saxophonists in Jazz. He was a great bandleader and communicator who knew how to draw his audience into the complexities of Jazz without sounding academic or stuffy. Many people don't know that Adderley had graduated from college at 19 and was teaching high school in Florida. When he arrived in New York in 1955 with his saxophone, he turned the Jazz community upside down. The rest is history. As this is Part 1 of a two part series in a "back to school" mode. We present Mr. Adderley narrating a history of Jazz. The only limitation of this recording is that it was done in 1960 and Adderley was only able to use recorded examples that were owned by Riverside Records. However this is still a valuable document in that it is educational and entertaining. Adderley should have done one of these every year. We are lucky to have this however. Enjoy.

Broadcast on 07-Sep-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 21:07:00 -0700

As a tribute to the 79th birthday of "the titan of the tenor saxophone" Sonny Rollins, we are presenting one of his "classic" recordings called "Way Out West". This was a first in a few ways. It was Sonny's first trio recording with just bass and drums, a format that he fell in love with and it was a first time meeting with two of the most authoritative players of their respective instruments. Bassist Ray Brown and drummer Shelly Manne provide the backdrop and stimulus for Sonny to explore the tunes of his choosing. The tunes are typical of Rollins in that he chose some tunes not often played by Jazzers. Mercer's "I'm An Ol' Cowhand" and "Wagon Wheels" are given a definitive treatment. Two standards and a jam over some familiar changes are displayed and one original by Sonny celebrating his first recording outside of New York called "Way Out West". A meeting of three giants of Jazz in "Way Out West".

Broadcast on 31-Aug-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 21:06:00 -0700

As it was Charlie Parker's birthday, he would have been 89 on August 29 the special extended Feature beginning a bit after 10pm (The Jazz Show begins at 9pm PDT) will cover several live and studio sessions by Parker. We will dwell on some lesser known gems that I hope you will enjoy and if they are new to you, all the better. Parker was born in Kansas City on August 29,1920 and his biography and life is very well known. He died at age 34 in New York on March 12,1955. Like a comet that streaked across the sky, Parker left a musical legacy in his short chaotic life that lasts to this day. One of the few musicians who can be called a genius, in the true sense of the word. Tonight Bird Lives!

Broadcast on 24-Aug-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 21:02:00 -0700

This is one of the great trombonist's most personal recordings. J.J. Johnson is one of the true pioneers of Modern Jazz as his concept on the trombone was the standard that all modern trombonists are measured. He is to the trombone what Dizzy Gillespie, Bud Powell, Charlie Parker are to their instruments. Johnson was an important composer and arranger as well and a very consistent player. He had made quartet recordings in the 50's with himself as the sole horn but this date, done in 1964 with his working group is deeper and more fully developed. Johnson's band consists of Harold Mabern on piano, Arthur Harper on bass and a fine sensitive drummer from Detroit named Frank Gant. Johnson mixes things up with standards and some Jazz specialties like Miles Davis' "Neo". Max Roach's composition "Blues Waltz" (some say it was written by Ray Charles) is given a definitive treatment and Johnson's own "Minor Blues" is a powerful statement. This is a recording that I would introduce anyone to the magnificent style of the modern master of the trombone........J.J. Johnson.

Broadcast on 17-Aug-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 21:01:00 -0700

This album was aptly titled as 1965 was a year of transition for Mr. Coltrane. His musical vision was expanding and changing and even though some of the changes alienated his audience, they had to be made and Coltrane was compelled to follow his musical vision. Freer rhythmic feels and a more open tonality and an ever expanding range of ideas on his horn were very evident. The great milestone recording "A Love Supreme" was behind him and thoughts of expanding the instrumentation of the quartet were taking place. This recording finds him still with the 'classic" quartet with McCoy Tyner, Jimmy Garrison and Elvin Jones but new ideas are prevailing. The set opens with the lyrical and spiritual "Dear Lord" with Roy Haynes replacing Jones on this track. Next is a five-part Suite with Jones back on drums that reflects change. The crux of this set is the title track "Transition" which is one of the most intense pieces that this band ever played in the studio. With the playing of Transition we are aware that a change is about to come as this mighty piece seems to break through barriers and into a whole new musical realm. Transition is indeed an important milestone even though is was issued after Coltrane's passing in July 1967.

Broadcast on 10-Aug-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 21:05:00 -0700

This album was a "concept" record put together by Mr. Ellington over a period of time from February 1959 to December 1959 over several sessions. The basic idea was the blues form, fast, slow, major and minor keys. The sessions were done late at night and through the early morning hours after gigs and concerts. The band was warmed up and ready. Ellington used only one trumpet,Ray Nance and two trombones, Mitchell "Booty" Wood and Matthew Gee and the full saxophone section and full rhythm. We hear the two trombonists Wood on plunger and Gee, open. Nance is in fine form on trumpet and has one violin solo on "C Jam Blues". Johnny Hodges is heard on alto and Paul Gonsalves on tenor and Hamilton on clarinet but Hamilton is also heard on a couple of robust solos on tenor saxophone. The tunes are all quite short and varied and although the album is a loved and respected item in Ellington's catalogue, it was dismissed when it was released as a minor effort. Certainly it cannot compare with "Black, Brown and Beige" or "The Far East Suite" but it is superb Duke. There are mostly tunes by Ellington, who plays piano throughout and a couple by Billy Strayhorn and one by Hamilton and one by Gee. "Blues in Orbit" stands as a fine outing for one of the greatest orchestras of the 20th century......long live The Duke!

Broadcast on 03-Aug-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 03 Aug 2009 21:04:00 -0700

Trumpeter/composer Kenny Dorham (McKinley Howard Dorham) had a most frustrating career as he always seemed overshadowed by others. He was born in 1924 in Fairfield, Texas and died quite young of kidney failure in 1972 in New York at age 48. He was an accomplished, arranger/composer/pianist and singer but left his mark as one of the most distinctive voices of the trumpet. He emerged as a soloist in the 40's but was overlooked by the critics in favor of Dizzy, Fats and Miles. In the 50's the same happened to Kenny as the world was watching and listening to Chet and Clifford. The 60's were no better for Kenny as the Jazz folks were checking out Lee, Freddie, Woody and others. Kenny was an also-ran. Sad to say, now that he is gone, he has the respect and recognition that he deserved in his lifetime. Dorham is considered to be one of the major voices and is studied by all the young players today. This album is one of two recordings by Kenny's working group of the late 50's,early 60's. Kenny and the wonderful baritone saxophonist, Charles Davis are on the front line. A young Steve Kuhn is on piano. The bass chores are split between Jimmy Garrison and Edward "Butch" Warren and the solid drumming is by Arnold "Buddy" Enlow. The tunes are all Dorham arrangements and three compositions are his and the others three are by Monk, Brubeck and Frank Sinatra. "Jazz Contemporary" is a fine recording and should stand with many of Kenny Dorham's better known albums. It's a gem!

Broadcast on 27-Jul-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 27 Jul 2009 21:00:00 -0700

Tonight The Jazz Show presents some early Brubeck Quartet recordings that are not as common as many others. These recordings are derived from broadcasts done from New York's Basin Street nightclub in February 1956. The Quartet by this time had reached enormous popularity from their recordings and college tours. Their repertoire was still mostly standards from the great American Songbook. Brubeck is especially creative here and many many piano players checked him out and copied his original ideas but sadly never acknowledged Brubeck in print, something that still rankles the 89 year old today. Heard with Dave is alto saxophonist Paul Desmond who is always superb and consistent with his melodic, lyrical style. Charlie Parker listed Desmond as his favourite of all the young altoists because of his originality. Dave's rhythm section at that time was Norman Bates on bass who had taken over from his brother Bob and the unheralded Joe Dodge on drums. Dodge was always tasteful and never got in the way and kept great time with both sticks and brushes. Here is some excellent and rare Brubeck from his classic period....enjoy!

Broadcast on 20-Jul-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 21:05:00 -0700

This recording was drummer/composer Max Roach's second album for the Impulse label and was one of his most innovative. It is unique in that it combined Mr. Roach's working band with a 16 voice choir. The themes, all composed and arranged by Roach reflected his ever growing involvement in America's civil rights struggle. The themes are defiant, militant and intense. Max's band included Clifford Jordan on tenor saxophone, Richard Williams on trumpet, Julian Priester on trombone,Mal Waldron on piano, Art Davis on bass plus a choir under the direction of Coleridge Perkinson. Roach's wife of the time, the wonderful singer, Abbey Lincoln appears on one tune. It's hard to believe that soon after this recording was made, Max Roach was boycotted from recording because of his political attitudes and commitment to racial equality. This recording was done in February of 1962 and Roach did not make any domestic recording until 1965, when he was signed to Atlantic Records. "It's Time!" is a rewarding and moving experience.

Broadcast on 13-Jul-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 21:01:00 -0700

The titan of the tenor saxophone performs on this rare disc with one of his favourite combinations, saxophone, bass and drums. Rollins, in the latter part of 1965 was on tour as a soloist in Europe playing engagements and picking up rhythm sections on the way. This concert, which took place in Paris, Sonny used Gilbert "Bibi" Rovere, one of the better French bassists. Happily Sonny was reunited with his Harlem homeboy, drummer Arthur Taylor, who had been an ex-pat for about three years. Both Rovere and Taylor had to watch and anticipate Rollins' every move as Sonny at this time was into total "stream of conscious" performances with no breaks in between tunes. We'll hear Sonny backed by the rhythm section and playing acapella quoting a whole variety of tunes both familiar and obscure.....they go by fast and require careful listening to catch them all. This is a fun and intense forty plus minutes by one of the all time greatest musicians to grace the planet.....Sonny Rollins!

Broadcast on 06-Jul-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 06 Jul 2009 21:09:00 -0700

This wonderful short-lived band only made one domestically produced record.A few bootlegs exist and one rare recording made in Japan,featuring tunes from "West Side Story" are the only documentation of this group. At the time the late alto saxophone master, Charlie Mariano (1923-2009) was married to Toshiko Akiyoshi and they formed this creative quartet with the late Gene Cherico on bass and a young Eddie Marshall on drums. The album was issued on the very short-lived Candid label and was done on December 5,1960. Two Charlie Mariano compositions are featured and two by Ms. Akiyoshi-Mariano and one arrangement of an old spiritual (Deep River) by Mr. Mariano. The recording is a beautiful and passionate statement by this great little band. The only small drawback is the tinny piano that Toshiko has to work with but as usual she makes the most of it.

Broadcast on 22-Jun-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 22 Jun 2009 21:03:00 -0700

Your host takes a secondary position on tonight's show as the Media Director of the Coastal Jazz and Blues Society, Mr. John Orysik takes over the full three hours by picking the music and talking with Gavin about the 2009 Vancouver International Jazz Festival. The Feature tonight IS The Jazz Festival!

Broadcast on 15-Jun-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 15 Jun 2009 21:03:00 -0700

This date done for Blue Note in April 1957 shows us a Sonny Rollins playing with confidence and authority. Rollins, who had been a member of Max Roach's quintet was about to leave and temporarily join Miles Davis' revamped quintet then strike out on his own. This all-star date puts Sonny in illustrious company with the great J.J. Johnson on trombone. J.J. gave Sonny some of his first recording opportunities back in 1949 and this was Sonny's way of repaying J.J. Art Blakey is on drums and he propelled Sonny on his first recording under his own name in 1951. Blakey loved Sonny and pushed him to new heights here. Horace Silver worked with Sonny on some very important Miles Davis dates in 1954 and Paul Chambers was everyone's favourite bassist.Thelonious Monk was one of Sonny's closest friends and in many ways, his teacher. They had recorded together many times and Monk was a welcome guest on this session and he added spice to the proceedings. Monk is featured on his ballad, "Reflections" with just Sonny as the sole horn. The other track is a classic as it features both Monk and Horace Silver at the piano bench playing Monk's blues based on major sixth intervals called, "Misterioso". So ends this powerful record date. Twelve takes, mostly false starts were required to complete the 6 tunes so that meant that basically everything was 'off the top'.....the true Jazz tradition. One of Mr. Rollins' great recordings and one that is frequently overlooked is tonight's Feature......"Sonny Rollins Volume 2".

Broadcast on 08-Jun-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 08 Jun 2009 21:02:00 -0700

Denny Zeitlin is one of the great individual stylists of the piano. He was born in Chicago on April 10,1938 and studied with the great theorist/innovator, George Russell. Denny lists his influences as Russell, Billy Taylor and Bill Evans but you'll find that Zeitlin has absorbed these influences so well that what comes out is pure Zeitlin. This was his first recording under his own name and it was done in 1964 for Columbia and re-issued on this fine Mosaic set from www.mosaicrecords.com Denny picked two fine sidemen in the persons of virtuoso bassist, Cecil McBee and the late drummer,Freddie Waites. Both these gentlemen were from Detroit and worked together in many different bands and were the perfect sidemen. This album, called "Cathexis" was the first in a series of innovative trio recordings. Denny moved to the Bay area soon after this recording to play and also to begin his other career as a psychiatrist. He has continued in both professions and is still practicing and playing at age 71. This album was an auspicious beginning.

Broadcast on 01-Jun-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 01 Jun 2009 21:06:00 -0700

Guitarist Grant Green, along with Wes Montgomery set the standards for that instrument in the 1960's. They both seemed to come out of nowhere and leaped to international fame. Montgomery was a more stable individual than Green and even though he died quite young at age 43 in 1968, he achieved legendary status. Green was not as fortunate in his lifetime but now, after his passing in 1979, he too, has reached iconic status. This album was one of the many Green sessions for Blue Note that were never released during Green's lifetime. This great session came out on vinyl in the early 80's on the Blue Note 'white cover' series and was later issued on Blue Note's Connoisseur Series on CD in 1995. It features Green on guitar with two major saxophonists in the persons of James Spaulding on alto and Joe Henderson on tenor plus the powerhouse rhythm section of McCoy Tyner on piano, Bob Cranshaw on bass and the dynamic drumming of Elvin Jones. The session was done in 1964 and opens with a Duke Pearson original called "Minor League", one original by Green called "Grant's Tune" and a great rendition of Sonny Rollins' blues called "Solid". the title track. Joe Henderson's "The Kicker" is a highlight as well as a version of Bacharach's "Wives And Lovers" without the saxophones but the best cut is the band's version of George Russell's "Ezz-thetic"(named for the great prizefighter Ezzard Charles). This is another feather in the formidable cap of guitar great Grant Green.

Broadcast on 25-May-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 25 May 2009 21:00:00 -0700

This lesser known recording was the last documentation of one of the great editions of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers. Drummer/leader, Blakey led many editions of this band over the years some of lesser importance than others. This band was one of his greatest and it was together from the Fall of 1961 until the Spring of 1964. This recording was done for Riverside Records towards the end of that label's life and it kind of got lost in the shuffle. The band is inspired and everyone is playing at their peak. Freddie Hubbard is on trumpet, Wayne Shorter is on tenor saxophone and is also musical director, Curtis Fuller on trombone, Cedar Walton on piano, Reginald (Reggie) Workman is on bass and Blakey. The five tunes are interesting, one by Fuller and the title track by Hubbard and Shorter's arrangement of Sadao Watanabe's tune called "Nihon Bash" and a moody ballad by Comden and Green arranged by Fuller called "Never Never Land" balances the set. One last tune is a rarity, a vocal by Art Blakey's cousin, Wellington Blakey, called "Wellington's Blues" nicely wraps up this fine record.

Broadcast on 18-May-2009

CiTR 101.9 Vancouver — Mon, 18 May 2009 21:05:00 -0700

From the early 60's on drummer/composer/Jazz pioneer, Max Roach made a vow to never play or record anything that did not have some form of political significance. Usually music and politics are a bad mix with music often taking a back seat but with Mr. Roach this was not the case. Max became a champion of civil rights and although others made strong statements about the plight of African-Americans, Max's voice was among the most articulate and musical. Roach was blacklisted from recording for many years in the 60's for his political stance. This album is a follow-up to his famous "Freedom Now Suite" and his first of two for the forward thinking Impulse label.His band includes the late trumpeter Booker Little, who was only two months away from his death at 23 from uremia. Julian Priester is on trombone, Clifford Jordan on tenor saxophone, and Eric Dolphy is heard on alto saxophone,flute and bass clarinet. Mal Waldron is on piano and Art Davis is on bass and on several tunes two percussionists are added in the persons of Carlos "Patato" Valdes on congas and Carlos "Totico" Eugenio on timbales and assorted percussion. Two vocals are by Abbey Lincoln. All the compositions and arrangements are by Max Roach and the recording was done over several days in August of 1961. This album is both a strong political and musical statement by one of the true giants of Jazz and creative music, Max Roach.