China can be be difficult for Westerners to grasp. Even today, China’s increasing presence as a greater force on the world stage leaves many worried, other wondering, some filled with speculation, many asking questions. But a grasp of its history is central to understanding the China of today, and tomorrow. In this process, few events […]
A few years ago, I became reacquainted with 2 classic albums alto saxophonist Jackie McLean made in the mid-1960s. Frankly, I had forgotten about McLean, partly because what I had heard from him in recent years had not been that memorable. But then those three great albums from the 1960s reminded me of what a […]
Rise Up, the newest album from organist Lonnie Smith, is the latest in a string of albums that rise above the norm for jazz organ. While sounding like solid B3-based small group jazz, Smith’s albums still sound fresh. His music both swings and drives. It can be subtle yet strong. It avoids cliches yet maintain […]
I first became aware of Harold Mabern in the late 1960s, primarily as one of the pianists featured on albums released by Blue Note. Although he clearly was an admirable pianist, to my young ears, he seemed interchangeable with many other pianists the label recruited to fulfill backup roles. His playing always was excellent, but […]