A couple of years ago - maybe it was three - I linked Rifftides readers to a video so clever that it's worth bringing to you again. Now that the staff has mastered the art of embedding, this time you see it right here on our screen; no linking required. When it finishes, you will see links to other creations by the same performer, who, for a reason perhaps known only to him, calls himself "Weeping Prophet." Thanks to reader Paul Paolicelli (his real name) for reminding us of this skillful piece … [Read more...]
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The nonagenarian pianist presented de Barros with every biographer’s hope, unrestricted access to his subject’s personal papers and nearly unrestricted access to her private thoughts. He made the most of it, turning exhaustive research and hundreds of hours of interviews into a true story with the sweep of a novel. From the early discovery of McPartland’s musical gift through her wartime service, her ecstatic and stormy marriage to Jimmy McPartland, her growth as a pianist, her deep affair with Joe Morello, and the radio show that made her a national figure, she has had a fascinating life. It makes a splendid read.
Mulligan’s Concert Jazz Band had three fewer musicians than most big jazz outfits. Its size permitted precision, flexibility and subtlety, yet the band had the power of sprung steel. In this concert from a half century ago, the CJB is as fresh as yesterday. Arrangements by Mulligan, Bob Brookmeyer, Al Cohn and Johnny Mandel set standards to which big band writers still aspire. Bassist Buddy Clark and drummer Mel Lewis inspired Mulligan, Brookmeyer, Conte Candoli, Gene Quill and Zoot Sims to some of the best soloing of their careers. This beautifully produced issue of the complete concert is a basic repertoire item.
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I had not heard this arrangement before. Absolutely brilliant !! No comment would be sufficient.Bruno Leicht on Stompin’ For Mili
Ladies & gentlemen -- Sorry, I don't wanna bother you with this question. I have to ask it anyway: Why did no one shoot a film...Tarik Townsend on Stompin’ For Mili
Thanks Doug and Mr. Bloch for making this available! I always wished I could see this, and here it is. You, know, I always...Brenton Plourde on Stompin’ For Mili
'Balcony Rock' was recorded on March 26, 1954 at The University of Michigan, in Ann Arbour, Michigan.Peter Bergmann on Stompin’ For Mili
A marvellous and precious film-document with Dave's delicate intro and Paul's imcomparable portrait of "Audrey". Thank you, Doug. In a letter from Southern-France where he was...