Saturday, December 31, 2016

Ronnie Cuber, Bill Evans, & Randy Brecker

Check out this terrific jam (not sure of the exact title), featuring baritone saxophonist Ronnie Cuber along with Bill Evans on tenor sax, and Randy Brecker on trumpet.  This performance comes from the 2003 San Sebastian Jazz Festival, in Spain. 


Here's more, just featuring the horns without the rhythm section.  Ronnie, Bill, and Randy... go for it, guys.


Friday, December 30, 2016

Rev. Gary Davis "Hesitation Blues"


Blues and gospel singer Reverend Gary Davis, seems to also be a great comedian.  Check out "Hesitation Blues".  The story, and the audience's laughter, makes the tune.  Some musicians do have a real knack for being comedians.

Thursday, December 29, 2016

Bonus Post: Chicago's Award-Winning Documentary Now More Than Ever: The History of Chicago Premieres on CNN Jan. 1

New Year's Day, new documentary on Chicago.  For the entire scoop, click HERE.

http://www.chicagotheband.com/chicagos-award-winning-documentary-now-more-than-ever-the-history-of-chicago-premieres-on-cnn-on-january-1/


Big Bill Broonzy "Key To The Highway"

Many blues artists and blues/rock bands have covered this tune.  Most notably, Derek & The Dominoes.  But, here's the original recording of "Key To The Highway" by Big Bill Broonzy from around 1940 or '41, featuring Big Bill Broonzy on guitar and vocals, Jazz Gillum on harmonica, and Washboard Sam, on what else... washboard.  Check it out.

Wednesday, December 28, 2016

Bass Player Charlie Bruber on the Scenic Route

My brother Charlie, on his bass playing with both Tabah and Black Market Brass, in an interview with WTIP North Shore Community Radio.

http://wtip.org/bass-player-charlie-bruber-scenic-route


Furry Lewis "Shake 'Em On Down"


A 1961 recording by blues pianist, Furry Lewis.  The tune is called "Shake 'Em On Down".  Walter Furry Lewis was one of the first of the old-time blues musicians of the 1920s to be brought out of retirement, and given a new lease of recording life, by the folk blues revival of the 1960s.

Tuesday, December 27, 2016

The Benevento Russo Duo Are Playing A Secret Show In Brooklyn Tonight

Brooklyn, New York.  FYI.  This should be a fun gig.

http://liveforlivemusic.com/news/benevento-russo-duo-playing-secret-show-brooklyn-tonight/


In Memoriam: Alphonse Mouzon, & his song "Virtue"

We remember the late great jazz drummer, keyboardist, and composer, Alphonse Mouzon. Another masterful musician has left this earth.

http://www.inquisitr.com/3828577/alphonse-mouzon-dead-at-68/

To honor his legacy, here is the title track to his "Virtue" record released in 1977.  The band lineup is:

Alphonse Mouzon - Drums, Percussion, Vocals, Keyboards,
Gary Bartz - Alto Saxophone, Soprano Saxophone –
Stu Goldberg - Keyboards, Soloist [Mini Moog]
Welton Gite - Electric Bass


More memories of Alphonse Mouzon as well.  Here is the 411 on the fantastic "Mind Transplant" record, with another long lost great, that Alphonse collaborated with.  The late, great, Tommy Bolin on guitar.  Rest In Peace, Tommy Bolin, and Alphonse Mouzon. 

http://www.tbolin.com/history/alphonse_mouzon.html



Monday, December 26, 2016

Miles Davis "Flamenco Sketches"


Here is the original version of "Flamenco Sketches" by Miles Davis, from the "Kind of Blue" record.

Chris Botti & David Sanborn "Flamenco Sketches"

Chris Botti and David Sanborn play a beautiful rendition of Miles Davis' "Flamenco Sketches" from the "Kind of Blue" album circa 1959.  On that recording, of course, it was Davis on trumpet, Cannonball Adderley on alto saxophone, John Coltrane on tenor saxophone, Paul Chambers on bass, Jimmy Cobb on drums, and on piano, Bill Evans, and Wynton Kelly.


Friday, December 23, 2016

Mannheim Steamroller "Good King Wenceslas"

As we come close to Christmas, here is another favorite of yours truly by Chip Davis and the Mannheim Steamroller.  This is The Steamroller's take on "Good King Wenceslas", from Mannheim Steamroller "Christmas", circa 1984.


Thursday, December 22, 2016

Dave Holland "The True Meaning of Determination"


Another track from Dave Holland's 2013 record "Prism".  This is called "The True Meaning of Determination".  The band lineup is:

Dave Holland: bass
Craig Taborn: piano
Kevin Eubanks: guitar
Eric Harland: drums

 

Wednesday, December 21, 2016

Weather Report "Volcano For Hire"

Cool tune, recorded in Tokyo, Japan, in 1981, by Weather Report, in the last year of their classic, and best known lineup with Joe Zawinul, Wayne Shorter, Jaco Pastorius, and Peter Erskine.  This is "Volcano For Hire". 









Tuesday, December 20, 2016

Albert Lee (feat. Emmylou Harris, Rosanne Cash, & Rodney Crowell) "Country Boy"

I may look like a city slicker.  Nah.  I'm a country boy at heart.  Hitch up the horse and wagon, crank up the Telecaster twang, and check out this tune!  Albert Lee plays his tune "Country Boy" with Emmylou Harris, Rosanne Cash, and Rodney Crowell on "In Session" circa 1983.


Monday, December 19, 2016

Eric Clapton "Wonderful Tonight"

Eric Clapton's famous ballad, "Wonderful Tonight", from the "Live In San Diego" record, from 2007 featuring in many ways, one of the best bands Clapton has had in his career.  Once again, the musicians playing with Clapton include Doyle Bramhall II. and Derek Trucks on guitars, Tim Carmon and Chris Stainton on keyboards, Willie Weeks on bass, Steve Jordan on drums, and backing vocalists, Michelle John, and Sharon White.


Sunday, December 18, 2016

Focus "Hocus Pocus"

Another Jan Akkerman related post.  Akkerman leads his band, Focus, masters of early prog rock, on a wild ride through their instrumental, "Hocus Pocus", introduced by Gladys Knight on "The Midnight Special" in 1973.  The band lineup is:

Thijs van Leer: vocals, yodeling, organ, flute, whistling
Jan Akkerman: guitar
Bert Ruiter: bass
Pierre van der Linden: drums



Saturday, December 17, 2016

Jan Akkerman "Tranquiliser"


Another tune from Jan Akkerman, showing his mastery and unique style on the electric guitar, playing his own brand of jazz.  This is "Tranquiliser". 

Friday, December 16, 2016

Jan Akkerman "Floatin' "

From his eponymous 1977 release on Atlantic Records, here is jazz fusion guitarist, Jan Akkerman, with the tune, "Floatin' ".  The band line up is:

Jan Akkerman - guitars
Joachim Kühn - keyboards
Cees van der Laarse - bass
Pierre van der Linden - drums
Neppie Noya - percussion

Thursday, December 15, 2016

Jan Akkerman "Streetwalker"

Revisiting great jazz guitarist, Jan Akkerman, and some of his work.  He started his career with the progressive rock band Focus, and then, left that group, to focus on playing jazz, solely.  His first solo record, produced one of his masterpieces, and here is that tune.  It is called "Streetwalker".  Here, he and his band play the tune at WDR Jazzline.  Akkerman, is playing a custom built guitar, made by a company called Heins, from Holland.  It is definitely, an acoustic/electric hybrid, and sounds great. 


Wednesday, December 14, 2016

Wayne Shorter "Maya"

Check out a track from Wayne Shorter's "High Life" record.  The tune is called "Maya", and features this band lineup:

Wayne Shorter: soprano saxophone
Rachel Z.: piano & synthesizers
David Gilmore: electric guitar
Marcus Miller: bass, bass clarinet, & rhythm programming
Will Calhoun: drums
Lenny Castro: percussion
Airto Moreira: percussion


Tuesday, December 13, 2016

Derek & The Dominos (feat. Duane Allman) "Let It Rain" (1970)

Derek & The Dominos, with Duane Allman sitting in, playing "Let It Rain", a tune that would become successful for Eric Clapton, as it was released on his self titled solo debut, in 1970 (the same year this show took place).  The recording is from a concert (the whole show, was posted on this blog, earlier on), at Curtis Hixon Hall in Tampa, Florida, on December 1st, 1970.


Monday, December 12, 2016

Weather Report "Can It Be Done?"

Sometimes, it is hard, as a musician, to find a new, original concept, in the music you play and write.  Weather Report asks, "Can It Be Done?", with Carl Anderson on vocals.  Here is the full line up on this track, that appears on their 1984 record, "Domino Theory".

Carl Anderson -vocals
Victor Bailey -bass
Omar Hakim -drums
Joe Zawinul -keyboards
José Rossy -percussion
Wayne Shorter -saxophone


Sunday, December 11, 2016

Johnny Winter Live In Sweden, 1987

A bonus post for your Sunday.  We return to Ron Weinstock's In A Blue Mood blog, and check out a live record done by the late,great, Johnny Winter and his trio, with a review of his album with Dr. John, "Live In Sweden, 1987", and there is video included of Winter's cover of J.B. Lenoir's "Mojo Boogie".

http://inabluemood.blogspot.com/2016/12/johnny-winter-live-in-sweden-1987.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FtQLoa+%28In+a+Blue+Mood%29


Lenny White "Sweet Tooth"

From his 1995 recording, "Present Tense", here is Lenny White, with the tune, "Sweet Tooth", written by bassist, Victor Bailey, who appears as part of the all-star band on the record, and on the track itself.  The lineup is:

Lenny White - drums
Chick Corea - piano, electric piano
Victor Bailey - bass
John Scofield - guitar
Kenny Garrett - saxophone
Jon Dryden - synthesizer


Saturday, December 10, 2016

Tony Williams & Ronnie Montrose "Capricorn"


Check out Tony Williams and Ronnie Montrose playing Wayne Shorter's "Capricorn" in a fusion/prog rock arrangement.  This song was originally arranged for and recorded by Miles Davis on the "Water Babies" album, and first recorded in 1967.  The band lineup includes Ronnie Montrose on guitar, Brian Auger on Hammond organ, Mario Cipolina on electric bass, and dual drummers... Tony Williams, and Billy Cobham.

There is plenty more from this album to discover.  So, there might be future posts.  Stay tuned.

Friday, December 9, 2016

Art Blakey "Moanin' "


In a performance from the 1988 Mount Fuji Jazz Festival in Fuji, Japan, here is Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers, with "Moanin' ".  The band is:

Art Blakey: drums
Philip Harper: trumpet
Robin Eubanks: trombone
Javon Jackson: tenor saxophone
Benny Green: piano
Peter Washington: bass

Thursday, December 8, 2016

Third Rail "PYMFAO"

A trio, featuring George Whitty on keyboards, Etienne Mbappe on bass, and on drums, Tom Brechtlein.  The tune is called "PYFMAO".  I'll leave that title up to interpretation.  Here's more about the band.

PYMFAO is a tune by the great Etienne MBappe. I believe it stands for "Peel Your Mother Figs And Oranges". Recorded in Köln, Germany on the last night of this tour, June 7, 2014.

THIRD RAIL HAS RELEASED A LIVE CD, "IGNITION: Live Across Europe", and to celebrate we are making a track from the CD available for download! For more info and to download the track, "You Rang" (recorded live in Prague), visit us at:

http://www.thirdrailtrio.com

Recorded and mixed, and video edited by G Whitty.

Wednesday, December 7, 2016

Bassist Stanley Clarke On Slapping The Strings For 40 Years

Stanley Clarke, is one of, if not the greatest living jazz bassist right now.  Yours truly has had a chance to meet him.  Here is an interview, with Clarke, talking about playing bass and doing it very well.

http://gpbnews.org/post/bassist-stanley-clarke-slapping-strings-40-years


George Duke "No Rhyme No Reason"

This is the single of a tune by the late George Duke called "No Rhyme, No Reason", which illustrates the crossover between contemporary jazz, R&B/soul (of the modern type), and pop music.  Check it out.


Tuesday, December 6, 2016

Donny McCaslin "Bend"

Tenor saxophonist Donny McCaslin, with his quirky and catchy instrumental jazz piece, "Bend", off of his "Casting For Gravity", record.  The band line up is:

Donny McCaslin - tenor saxophone
David Binney - vocals, synthesizer
Jason Lindner - piano, electric piano, synthesizer
Tim Lefebvre - electric bass
Mark Guiliana - drums


Incidentally, of course, at present, Tim Lefebvre, is the bassist, for Tedeschi Trucks Band.  But, he has played on a number of records.

http://www.timlafave.com/

Monday, December 5, 2016

Tower of Power "Maybe It'll Rub Off"


One of the songs Tower of Power played at Saturday's concert, that has stuck, with yours truly.  Track five, from the 1975 "Urban Renewal" record, here's, "Maybe It'll Rub Off".


AXS TV to Air "Guitar Gods" Marathon Featuring Premiere of 2007 Eric Clapton Concert Film

Fellow guitar players and guitar player fans, take note.

http://www.classichitsandoldies.com/v2/77585/?utm_content=buffer5a09a&utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook.com&utm_campaign=buffer


Sunday, December 4, 2016

We Came To Play! Tower of Power @ The Dakota Jazz Club, Minneapolis, MN, 12-3-16

For the second time in one year, yours truly, got to see Tower of Power, play.  Their music, especially because of the horns, has been a big influence.  It was nice to see the band again, sounding great, and on top of their game, led by lead singer, Marcus Scott, and their horn section with Emilio Castillo and Tom Politzer on tenor saxophones, original member Stephen "Doc" Kupka on baritone saxophone, and trumpet players Sal Carrachiolo and Adolfo Acosta (also on flugelhorn), the rhythm section of Jerry Cortez on guitar, Roger Smith on Hammond B3 organ, and original members Francis "Rocco" Prestia, on bass, and David Garibaldi on drums.

Scott's dynamic stage presence, showed through all night.  ToP has had many great lead singers, and without doubt, Scott is one of them.  A great singer, and, he can work the crowd and get them into the groove on every song.  In fact, the whole band, just has this aura of making people want to feel the soul, and "funkafize" as one of the tunes they played tonight, says.  "You Got To Funkafize" was song number four on a set list that kept the crowd at The Dakota dancing and wanting more.  Who knows?  "Maybe It'll Rub Off", and make you feel good!, to reference another song in the set. This set, was different from the MN Zoo set as it was not as long, and the boys really hit everything head on, while still allowing for fixtures of the band like the trumpet players, Tommy P. on lead tenor sax, "Doc", on bari sax, as well as Roger and Jerry to have their say in the songs.

Bringing the funk is what ToP does, in spades.  They are so unique, having the horns and the vocalist, central to the band, but letting the rhythm section absolutely rip when they want to, as well.  They can play ballads, and bring the funk, with ease.  They've been on top of their game for almost 49 years.  Boys, when you get to 50, you'll surely have more in store.  Speaking of more in store, Emilio Castillo, tenor saxophonist and co-founder of the band, mentioned a new record coming next year.  We'll see what comes of that.  Two different shows, and two totally different sets, that yours truly has seen from ToP this year, and both were spot on.

Yours truly, even got a copy of the set list, which is pretty cool.

Set list: Tower of Power @ Dakota Jazz Club, Minneapolis, MN, 12-3-16

1. We Came To Play
2. Soul With A Capital S
3. To Say The Least, You're The Most
4. You Got To Funkafize
5. Time Will Tell
6. Maybe It'll Rub Off
7. Get Yo' Feet Back On The Ground
8. James Brown Medley
9. So Very Hard To Go
10. What Is Hip?

Encore:

11. You're Still A Young Man




Saturday, December 3, 2016

Tower of Power (feat. Richard Elliott & Greg Adams) "Boys From The Bay"


"Smooth Jazz" tenor saxophonist, Richard Elliott, played with Tower of Power, for five years, and wrote a song in tribute to the band after embarking on a solo career.  Well, here is that tune, performed with Tower of Power for their 40th anniversary concert at the Fillmore in San Francisco, California, back in 2008.  Elliott is featured on tenor, and one of their original trumpet players, Greg Adams, also takes a solo on this one.


Friday, December 2, 2016

Stuff "(Do You) Want Some of This?"


Here is another song from the 1970s jazz funk band, Stuff, made up primarily of studio musicians.  It was led by the late, great, pianist/organist, Richard Tee.  Have posted a couple of songs from these guys before. Great band.  The tune is called "(Do You) Want Some of This?"  Here's the band's bio.

Biography by Scott Yanow: Under the leadership of bassist Gordon Edwards, several of the most prolific studio players around teamed together to form an all-star rhythm section that on a part-time basis operated as an independent group. Back around 1967, Edwards put together the Encyclopedia of Soul and during the next decade, the group (which just played together on an occasional basis) evolved into Stuff. Such musicians as drummer Billy Cobham and Jimmy Johnson and altoist David Sanborn passed through the group. By the time of its initial recording in 1975, the lineup was set: Richard Tee on organ, electric piano, and acoustic pianos, both Eric Gale and Cornell Dupree on guitars, bassist Edwards, and drummer Steve Gadd; Christopher Parker was occasionally with the group on second drums and percussion. Although the band, which consisted of masterful accompanists, often sounded like a "music minus one" ensemble (as if they were waiting for the main soloist to show up), Stuff were quite popular for a few years, recording four albums for Warner Bros. and having occasional reunions in the '80s.






Thursday, December 1, 2016

Yonder Mountain String Band "Franklin's Tower" (feat. Bill Kreutzmann, and Mickey Hart)

Grateful Dead members Bill Kreutzmann and Mickey Hart, sat in with bluegrass jam band Yonder Mountain String Band, on a Grateful Dead classic, ("Franklin's Tower").  Dig this.


Wednesday, November 30, 2016

Alan Rieder & Frank Gambale "The Natives Are Restless"

Revisiting another awesome fusion band.  This is drummer Alain Rieder, with Frank Gambale on guitar and scat vocals, Tom Coster (of Santana fame) on keyboards, Jimmy Earl on bass, and Mike Fahn on trombone.  The track is called "The Natives Are Restless".  Restless?  Probably more like, wanting to dance to this funky groove.  Rieder, Earl, Coster, and Gambale, bring the heat, and the funk, on this one!


Tuesday, November 29, 2016

Derek Trucks Not Interested In Potential Allman Brothers Reunion

If the Allman Brothers Band does reunite, it will be without Derek Trucks.  An interview Trucks conducted with The Boston Herald, explains why.

http://www.jambase.com/article/derek-trucks-not-interested-potential-allman-brothers-reunion


Chick Corea & Steve Vai "The Rumble"

Chick Corea's Elektric Band Vs. Steve Vai's Monsters - The Rumble from The Songs of West Side Story by Leonard Bernstein.

James Earl - bass
David Weckl - drums
Chick Corea - electric piano (Rhodes), synthesizer
Frank Gambale - guitar
Joe Porcaro - percussion
Eric Marienthal - saxophone
Joe Pena - bass
Simon Phillips - drums
Steve Vai - guitar
Lenny Castro - percussion
Greg Phillinganes - synthesizer
Joe Pena - bass
David Paich - synthesizer




 

Sunday, November 27, 2016

Rare Footage of Jimi Hendrix's Full Performance at the Royal Albert Hall in 1969 - Video

Yours truly, almost forgot.  So, this is a Sunday bonus post.  Today, marks what would be the 74th birthday of guitar great, Jimi Hendrix, who some consider the greatest rock and roll guitarist, to ever live.  To celebrate, here is the audio of Hendrix's concert in 1969 from the Royal Albert Hall in London, England.  The set list is:

Set 1:

1. Lover Man
2. Hear My Train a Comin'
3. I Don't Live Today
4. Foxy Lady
5. Bleeding Heart
6. Fire
7. Little Wing
8. Voodoo Child (Slight Return)
9. Room Full of Mirrors

Encore:

10. Purple Haze
11. Wild Thing

https://forgottenguitar.com/2016/02/26/rare-footage-of-jimi-hendrixs-full-performance-at-the-royal-albert-hall-in-1969-video/comment-page-2/


David Torn, Mick Karn, & Terry Bozzio "Bandaged By Dreams"

A pretty intense piece of fusion music.  This is David Torn, Mick Karn, and Terry Bozzio, with an instrumental called "Bandaged By Dreams".

David Torn - guitars, loops and processing, Hammond B-3, harmonica, fake Koto, tiny piano
Mick Karn - fretless bass, bass clarinet, dida
Terry Bozzio - drums, percussion, bodhran, dumbek, throaty french horn imitation and 12 notes on the piano

Saturday, November 26, 2016

Wes Montgomery & Thelonius Monk "Round Midnight"

Cool version of Thelonious Monk's tune "Round Midnight" with Monk, and West Montgomery.  Dig it!






Friday, November 25, 2016

Widespread Panic "Don't Be Denied"

Widespread Panic playing their cover of Neil Young's tune, "Don't Be Denied" at their New Year's Eve show on December 31st, 2013 at Phillips Arena in Atlanta, Georgia.  


Thursday, November 24, 2016

The Del McCoury Band "Nashville Cats"


Thankful for music, this Thanksgiving.  Check this one out.  The Del McCoury Band tackles a bluegrass rendition of The Lovin' Spoonful's tune, "Nashville Cats".  This is cool.

Wednesday, November 23, 2016

Brecker Brothers "Nothing Personal"

Check out the Brecker Brothers (Randy, on trumpet, and his late brother, Michael, on tenor saxophone), playing the tune "Nothing Personal" off of their live concert record from the Stadtgarten in Koln, Germany, recorded in 1994.  The band line up is:

Randy Brecker -- trumpet
Michael Brecker -- tenor saxophone, ewi
Dean Brown -- guitar
George Whitty -- keyboards
James Genus -- bass
Rodney Holmes -- drums

Tuesday, November 22, 2016

Stan Getz "Invitation"

A standard of jazz, this is the tune "Invitation", composed by John Coltrane, and covered here, by Stan Getz.  Proof of a great jazz piece, I suppose, is that it gets interpreted in different ways by different artists for a long while after it's composed, and becomes a standard of music.  "Invitation" is one of those songs.  Among the artists who have covered it are those such as the aforementioned, Stan Getz (who's version is featured here), Quincy Jones & His Orchestra, Tom Harrell, Joe Sample, Sarah Vaughan, Lee Konitz & Hein van de Geyn, Bill Evans, The Kenny Clarke & Francy Boland Sextet, Joe Henderson, Cal Tjader, and Andy Bey. 

http://jazzstandards.com/compositions-2/invitation.htm

Enjoy Stan Getz's interpretation of the tune.


Monday, November 21, 2016

Phil Miller & In Cahoots "Black Cat"

Check out this modern jazz piece from Phil Miller and his band In Cahoots, called "Black Cat".  Miller is the guitarist and bandleader.  The lineup is:

Phil Miller: guitar
Peter Lemer: keyboards
Jim Dvorak: trumpet
Elton Dean: alto saxophone, saxello
Fred Baker: bass
Mark Fletcher: drums



Sunday, November 20, 2016

Frank Zappa "Whipping Post"


Frank Zappa (who would have turned 74 years old this past Sunday), does a great cover rendition of one of a favorite tune of your truly.  Frank tackles "Whipping Post" by The Allman Brothers. 

Amy Ray "Duane Allman"


We celebrate the birthday of the late, great, Duane Allman, with a great tribute song, to the one and the only, "Skydog", Duane Allman, by singer/songwriter Amy Ray and her band.  Dig it!


Saturday, November 19, 2016

Allman Brothers Band "Who's Been Talkin'?"


Check out this 2009 performance by The Allman Brothers Band of the Howlin' Wolf tune, "Who's Been Talkin'?" The performance took place at their August 24th, 2009 show at Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion in Gilford, New Hampshire.  This was on a joint tour with Widespread Panic.  Jojo Hermann plays piano, and Jimmy Herring joins Warren and Derek, on guitar, for this one, along with ABB drum tech, James van de Bogert, on the skins.


Friday, November 18, 2016

Eric Clapton: Blues Medley


Great blues medley by Eric Clapton at the A.R.M.S. benefit concert in 1983, that includes "Sad, Sad Day" by Muddy Waters, "Have You Ever Loved A Woman" by Freddie King, and "Rambling On My Mind", by Robert Johnson.

Thursday, November 17, 2016

Rodney Crowell "Till I Gain Control Again"

Texas country music singer/songwriter Rodney Crowell, plays one of his biggest songs on Austin City Limits in 1983.  This is "Till I Gain Control Again".  Willie Nelson also covered this one, and made it a part of his concert set list.








Wednesday, November 16, 2016

In Memoriam: Mose Allison

Rest In Peace, Mose Allison.  Allison was a great pianist who blurred the line between jazz and blues.  To honor his legacy, yours truly found a copy I had of his "Greatest Hits" record.  This one is highly recommended if you are a jazz or blues fan.  The music on the record was recorded in a period of time between March 7th, 1957, and February 13th, 1959.  This particular recording was done on the Prestige label and remastered in 1988.  The track listing is:

1. The Seventh Son
2. Eyesight To The Blind
3. Do Nothin' Till You Hear From Me
4. Lost Mind
5. I've Got A Right To Cry
6. Baby, Let Me Hold Your Hand
7. Parchman Farm
8. If You Live
9. Don't Get Around Much Anymore
10. One Room Country Shack
11. I Hadn't Anyone Till You
12. Young Man's Blues
13. That's All Right
14. Blueberry Hill
15. Trouble In Mind
16. Creek Bank

Here is a tribute to Mose Allison written in the New York Times.

http://mobile.nytimes.com/2016/11/16/arts/music/mose-allison-a-font-of-jazz-and-blues-dies-at-89.html?_r=0&referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F


Tuesday, November 15, 2016

Leon Russell Meets the Allman Brothers In 1966

One more post for today, about a chance meeting, between Duane and Gregg Allman, and Leon Russell, 50 years ago, in 1966... way before the Allman Brothers Band even was an idea.

http://savagelost.com/leon-russell-meets-the-allman-brothers-in-1966


Alligator Records

Another music blog followed by yours truly called In A Blue Mood has just posted about a 2 CD set released by the great Chicago blues label, Alligator Records.  Hence, a bonus post for your Tuesday.  You can check it out, HERE:

http://inabluemood.blogspot.com/2016/11/alligator-records-45th-anniversary.html?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+blogspot%2FtQLoa+%28In+a+Blue+Mood%29


Grateful Dead "Touch of Grey"


Some songs, just become a part of who you are without you even knowing it until much later after you hear them for the first time.  In the horn driven rhythm & blues band I play guitar with, called I94 Express, we have been working on and playing an arrangement of "Touch of Grey" by The Grateful Dead, and this is why the tune has become such a part of the fabric of who yours truly is, as an individual person.  A pretty fascinating discovery, to be honest.


Monday, November 14, 2016

In Memoriam: Leon Russell

Yours truly saw Leon Russell play at the Cedar Cultural Center in Minneapolis, back in January.  Sad news to report, he has passed away and is another great musician who's legacy is going to be remembered.  Rest In Peace, Leon Russell.  To honor him, here is his version of "Delta Lady" done on a television show.


Here too, Sir Elton John, inducts Leon Russell into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2011.


Sunday, November 13, 2016

In Memoriam: Victor Bailey

Rest In Peace, jazz bass legend, Victor Bailey.

http://www.notreble.com/buzz/2016/11/11/in-memoriam-victor-bailey/

We remember his legacy, with a performance he did, in a trio at the 2006 Jazz Triumph Festival in Moscow, Russia.  The band is Victor Bailey on bass and vocals, Larry Coryell on guitar, and Lenny White, on drums.  Here's the track listing.

1. Lowblow
2. Black Dog
3. Black Orpheus
4. Invitation
5. Wolfbane



Saturday, November 12, 2016

Jean Luc Ponty "Egocentric Molecules"

The molecule, is the subject of this fascinating instrumental, by jazz violin maestro, Jean Luc Ponty.  Last time something was posted on the subject, he, and Yes lead vocalist Jon Anderson, were "Re-Remembering Molecules".  This time, the feature is Jean Luc Ponty's composition, "Egocentric Molecules".  One could imagine, that molecules that bond things together in an environment, do have quite high opinions of themselves.  This track comes from Ponty's "Cosmic Messenger" record, released in 1978.


Friday, November 11, 2016

Widespread Panic "Lawyers, Guns, & Money"


Another tune from Widespread Panic at the last of their 2014 Panic en la Playa shows.  This is a cover of Warren Zevon's tune, "Lawyers, Guns, & Money", and it's a good one.  Posted a version Zevon did, a long while back as I recall. 

Thursday, November 10, 2016

Gregg Allman Talks New Album, Illness, & Potential Allman Brothers Reunion

An interview with Gregg Allman about his recent bout with pneumonia, a forthcoming new record next year, and... wait for it... a possible Allman Brothers Band, reunion?  Well, we'll have to wait and see about that third thing.

http://www.jambase.com/article/gregg-allman-talks-new-album-illness-potential-allman-brothers-reunion


Wednesday, November 9, 2016

Pete Levin Trio "Nana"


Another tune from Pete Levin Trio, from the same gig.  This one is called "Nana".

Tuesday, November 8, 2016

Pete Levin Trio "When I Was Young"


Check out the Pete Levin Trio, playing a gig in Italy in 2009.  Pete Levin, was the keyboardist who sat in with the Allman Brothers during their closing set at Peach Festival on "Don't Keep Me Wonderin' ", and "In Memory of Elizabeth Reed" in 2014.  Levin, also plays keys, in Gregg Allman's solo band.  The band details for The Pete Levin Trio, are in the video.  The tune is called "When I Was Young". 

Monday, November 7, 2016

Freddie King "Ain't Nobody's Business"


Check out Freddie King delivering a soulful performance of the blues standard, "Ain't Nobody's Business".  This is a good one!  King's singing, and stinging lead guitar are the highlights of this performance.

Sunday, November 6, 2016

Larry Coryell "Rocks"

From his 1975 Vanguard release, "Planet End", here is jazz guitarist Larry Coryell playing the tune "Rocks", composed by jazz trumpet legend, Randy Brecker.  The band lineup is a good one.  The Eleventh House, featuring:

Larry Coryell: guitar
Alphonse Mouzon: drums
Mike Lawrence: trumpet
Mike Mandel: electric piano, synthesizer
Danny Trifan: bass




Saturday, November 5, 2016

George Duke Band, Tokyo, 1983


Check out another performance by the late, great, George Duke.  Here he is, playing with his band in Tokyo, Japan, in 1983.

Friday, November 4, 2016

Memphis Minnie & Little Walter "Me & My Chauffeur Blues"


A 1950s re-recording of Memphis Minnie's classic "Me & My Chauffeur Blues" with Memphis Minnie on guitar and vocals, and Marion "Little Walter" Jacobs, on harmonica.  The song is all about the chauffeur, and how he just drives way too fast!  Attention all drivers... obey the speed limit. 

Thursday, November 3, 2016

Corea, McLaughlin, Holland, & DeJohnette "Les Catacombes" (takes 1 & 2)

From a 1969 recording by the core of Miles Davis' rhythm section, featuring Chick Corea on Wurlitzer piano, John McLaughlin on guitar, Dave Holland on bass, and Jack DeJohnette on drums, recorded in 1969, but never released, here's "Les Catacombes", takes 1 & 2.

Take 1


Take 2

Wednesday, November 2, 2016

Corea, McLaughlin, Holland, & DeJohnette "Gordie's Boots"

The third track from a bootleg disc of a recording session on October 28th, 1969, that has not been released in the United States, by the quartet of Chick Corea on Wurlitzer piano, John McLaughlin, on guitar, Dave Holland on upright bass, and Jack DeJohnette on drums, entitled, "Gordie's Boots".




Tuesday, November 1, 2016

Flashback: Watch Johnny Cash Perform 'Big River' at His Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction

The late, great, Johnny Cash, was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 1980, and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 1992.  Here is newly unearthed video of his acceptance speech, and a performance of his song, "Big River" at the '92 RRHOF ceremony.  This article originally appeared, last year. 

http://www.rollingstone.com/music/videos/flashback-watch-johnny-cash-perform-big-river-at-his-rock-roll-hall-of-fame-induction-20150115

Monday, October 31, 2016

The Michael Landau Group "Ghouls & The Goblins"

Spooky jazz bonus post for your Halloween.  Check out The Michael Landau Group playing "Ghouls & The Goblins".

Michael Landau, one of the world's top session guitarists and truly one of the finest musicians of our time.

Known for his versatility in jazz, blues, soul and rock along with his distinctive guitar sound, Landau delivers music at its best with amazing skills, creativity and true musicianship.

Alongside his solo work, Landau is also known for recording, touring and/or performing live with artists and bands such as Miles Davis, Pink Floyd, Joni Mitchell, Boz Scaggs, James Taylor, B.B. King, Ray Charles, Rod Stewart, Joe Sample, The Crusaders, Steve Lukather, Robben Ford, and David Garfield to name a few.

Organic Instrumentals, Michael Landau's first new studio album in eleven years, features some excellent musicians like Gary Novak, Charley Drayton, Vinnie Colaiuta, Larry Goldings, Jimmy Haslip, and Walt Fowler.

Ghouls And The Goblins, written by Michael Landau, is one of the great tracks from this stellar album, Organic Instrumentals. The song is also recorded on his live album The Michael Landau Group Live, released in 2006.
 
The track features:

Michael Landau: guitar
Larry Goldings: Hammond organ
Chris Chaney: bass
Michael Landau: guitar


The Band "Leave Me Alone"


A tune by The Band, yours truly has never heard before, as odd as it seems.  This one's called "Leave Me Alone".  Not sure what year it's from.  But, clearly, Levon Helm, and Richard Manuel, are trading vocal lines, and Robbie Robertson's guitar solo, is extremely hot!

Sunday, October 30, 2016

Mick Jagger & The Red Devils "The Blues Sessions"

Mick Jagger was in another band, besides the Rolling Stones... much as his bandmates Keith Richards (with the Xpensive Winos, and The Dirty Mac, (a super group, featuring Richards, and Eric Clapton, along with John Lennon and Mitch Mitchell.  Here's Mick Jagger & The Red Devils, with their album, "The Blues Sessions"


The band lineup on this album is:

Mick Jagger: vocals
Lester Butler: harmonica
Paul Size: guitar
Jonny Ray Bartel: bass
Bill Bateman: drums

The track listing is:

1. Blues With A Feeling
2. I Got My Eyes On You
3. Still A Fool
4. Checkin' Up On My Baby
5. One Way Out
6. Talk To Me Baby
7. Evil
8. Ain't Your Business
9. Shake 'Em On Down
10. Somebody Loves Me
11. Dream Girl Blues
12. 40 Days, 40 Nights

Saturday, October 29, 2016

Aretha Franklin "The Weight"


Great cover of "The Weight" by The Band, by Aretha Franklin, featuring Duane Allman, on slide guitar. 

Friday, October 28, 2016

The Second Coming "Born In Chicago"

A pre-Allman Brothers Band called The Second Coming, led by Dickey Betts, who, I am pretty sure singing lead vocals on this tune.  Or, more accurately, it could be Berry Oakley, who played bass in this band, and in the very first incarnation of the ABB.  Here they are, playing "Born In Chicago".  Check it out.


Thursday, October 27, 2016

George Duke, Stanley Clarke, and Howard Hewett "Heaven Sent You"


The late, great, George Duke, Stanley Clarke, and soulful vocalist Howard Hewett, playing "Heaven Sent You".  Hewett has a gift for being able to improvise with his singing.  He's got quite the falsetto range and is a pure rhythm & blues singer.  Check this out.

Wednesday, October 26, 2016

Maceo Parker: My First Name Is Maceo

The full concert movie by Maceo Parker & His Band "My First Name Is Maceo".  Here's the track listing.

1. Keep On Marching
2. Gimme Some More
3. Children's World
4. Walking Home Together
5. Shake Everything You've Got
6. Funk Is About What You Don't Play
7. Let's Get It On
8. House Party
9. Cold Sweat


Tuesday, October 25, 2016

Johnny Winter & Dr. John: In Session, 1988


This is the whole concert by Johnny Winter & Dr. John from the "In Session" TV program.  Have posted bits and pieces of it before.  But, this is the program, in it's entirety.  The set list:

1. Right Place, Wrong Time
2. Johnny B. Good
3. Junior Parker's Song
4. Talk To Your Daughter
5. You Lie Too Much
6. She Doesn't Mean Mistreated
7. Tipitina
8. Such A Night

The band lineup is:

Johnny Winter: guitar, vocals
Dr. John: piano, vocals
Brian Russell: guitar
John Paris: bass, harmonica
Terry Clark: drums

The program was aired in 1988 and was actually recorded on September 23rd, 1983.

Monday, October 24, 2016

Maceo Parker "Shake Everything You've Got"

OK.  Folks, this is one way, to bring the funk.  You may be funky, if you, play a horn, have a wicked rhythm section, stay on the one beat, play slap bass, and say, "huh!" and, "give the drummer some!" throughout your jam.  Maceo Parker on alto saxophone, Fred Wesley on trombone, and on tenor saxophone, Pee Wee Ellis. 

Maceo, what'd you say?  Say what?  Oh!  "Shake Everything You've Got", is the clear message of this jam.  You wanna dance?  Dance to this, daddy-o.

Legion of Mary "Freedom Jazz Dance"

Jam band jazz, at it's best.  This is the band Legion of Mary, led by Jerry Garcia, performing "Freedom Jazz Dance" composed by tenor saxophonist Eddie Harris, who was the first artist to electrically amplify a saxophone, and also played keyboards (electric piano, and organ).  Miles Davis recorded "Freedom Jazz Dance" in 1966.  Garcia's cover with Legion of Mary is taken from a concert at The Bottom Line in New York City, from the band's early show on April 9th, 1975.  The band is:

Jerry Garcia: guitar & vocals
Merl Saunders: keyboards & vocals
John Kahn: bass
Martin Fierro: saxophone & flute
Ron Tutt: drums


Saturday, October 22, 2016

Jean Luc Ponty "Far From The Beaten Paths"

Check it out.  From Jean Luc Ponty's 1983 "Individual Choice" record, here is a song called "Far From The Beaten Paths".  The band lineup is:

Jean-Luc Ponty - violin, organ, synthesizer, keyboards,keyboard bass, rhythm programming
Allan Holdsworth - guitar
Rayford Griffin - drums, percussion
Randy Jackson - bass
George Duke - synthesizer, Mini-moog

Friday, October 21, 2016

McCoy Tyner @ The Dakota, October 20th, 2016

Yours truly had the honor and the privilege of seeing one of the giants of jazz, pianist McCoy Tyner perform at The Dakota jazz club, with his quartet, and truly enjoyed the show.  I was lucky enough to catch both of the gigs that took place at The Dakota, on Thursday evening, the 7PM, and the 9PM performance.  Mr. Tyner, is a man who has shaped a large portion of modern jazz influence and innovation, and is one of those artists, who in shaping what jazz would become during the 1950s and '60s, we are thankful to still have.

Not to sound colloquial, but, there is that idiom in the English language, "the real McCoy", to mean, the real deal, or the genuine article.  Yes, the idiom could well be a play on his name.  But, McCoy Tyner is one of those real, genuine, treasured artists within the realm of not only jazz, but also, of music.  Some exuberant fans kept cheering and calling Tyner "the real McCoy" during the second show.  But, that's the truth.  The man has done a whole lot, to shape the way the piano is played as a jazz instrument, and created a singular, unique playing style, that influenced countless other artists to be sure.

Though Tyner is in the winter of his career, and maybe, his life, that made the performance even more moving to behold, as he and his backing band played songs from not just his solo career, but also from his time as pianist in John Coltrane's band.  Tyner reflected and told stories of growing up in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and how that experience, influences his music, and received much applause for his virtuosity on the piano.  He is a true piano maestro.  His playing was extremely moving and showed the raw emotion that music can convey in any form.  He has recorded for five plus decades, and if you have not heard his music, I encourage you to take a closer look.







Thursday, October 20, 2016

Steely Dan "Reelin' In The Years"

Yours truly has seen Steely Dan in concert, twice, and this has to be one of my favorite songs of theirs.  1973's "Reelin' In The Years" performed on The Midnight Special, TV show.

Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Black Market Brass "So Who"

From their September record release gig at the Turf Club in St. Paul, for "Cheat & Start A Fight", here's Black Market Brass playing their tune "So Who?"  Dig it!


Tuesday, October 18, 2016

Jeff Beck Group "Definitely Maybe"


Check out the Jeff Beck Group live at the Beat Club in Germany in 1972, performing their tune "Definitely Maybe".  The band lineup is:

Jeff Beck: Guitar
Bobby Tench: Vocals
Clive Chaman: Bass
Max Middleton: Keyboards
Cozy Powell: Drums

Monday, October 17, 2016

Derek & The Dominoes "Why Does Love Got To Be So Sad?"


This is perhaps my favorite track (besides the legendary title track) from the 1970 "Layla" record by Derek & The Dominoes.  "Why Does Love Got To Be So Sad?"  Check it out.

Sunday, October 16, 2016

Furry Lewis "Casey Jones"


Check out bluesman Furry Lewis with "Casey Jones" about the American railroader who hailed from Jackson, Tennessee, and worked for the Illinois Central Railroad.

Saturday, October 15, 2016

Rory Block "Statesboro Blues"


Blues singer and guitarist, Rory Block, does a great version of Blind Willie McTell's "Statesboro Blues" at the Vic Theater in Bristol, England on November 19th, 2000. 

Friday, October 14, 2016

Robert Petway "Catfish Blues"


A virtually unknown bluesman named Robert Petway, and his recording of "Catfish Blues".  Very little is known about Robert Petway. He recorded only sixteen songs between 1941-1942 and there is only one photo available of him.  But this song, "Catfish Blues" is an important part of blues history!
For example Muddy Waters based his "Rollin' Stone" hit on this recording and you can hear it.

Thursday, October 13, 2016

Mississippi John Hurt "My Creole Belle"

Check out Mississippi John Hurt, performing solo on acoustic guitar, with not one, but, two songs.  The title of this post gives one, ("My Creole Belle").  But, there is a second.  It is "Coffee Blues".  However, the two tunes, are from two, separate performances.  Love going back to the roots of the blues, and discovering work by some of the original masters, and Mississippi John Hurt, is one such artist.












Wednesday, October 12, 2016

John Lee Hooker live at Detroit Tube Works, 1970: Parts 1 & 2



Check out John Lee Hooker's epic performance at Detroit Tube Works, circa 1970.  This is some of his best live work.  His quartet band, features Muruga Booker on drums, Robert Hooker, on organ, and Joe Hooker, on bass.  Robert, and Joe, are John Lee Hooker's sons.

Tuesday, October 11, 2016

Watch Phish's "Breath And Burning" And "Blaze On" With The Roots Horns on Fallon

Phish appeared on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon, playing two songs from their new record "Big Boat".  "Breath And Burning", and "Blaze On".  Watch it, HERE.

http://liveforlivemusic.com/news/watch-phish-breath-burning-blaze-roots-horns-fallon/


Monday, October 10, 2016

Bo Diddley, B.B. King, Smokey Robinson, Paul Butterfield, & Chuck Berry "Hey Bo Diddley"

From the 1987 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction ceremony, here is Bo Diddley, B.B. King, Smokey Robinson, Paul Butterfield, Chuck Berry, and more, playing, "Hey Bo Diddley".  Chuck Berry and B.B. King are better known as guitarists, but here, Berry lends his talent to the piano, and B.B. King, provides extra percussion, on maracas.



Sunday, October 9, 2016

Sonny Knight & The Lakers

Went and saw Sonny Knight & The Lakers play their album release show at First Avenue last night.  A great band, and Sonny Knight, is indeed a charismatic and energetic lead singer.  The horn section for his group was also excellent.  They put their own twist on classic soul music for sure, and it's all original material.  The new record is called "Sooner Or Later" and will be released this coming Friday, October 14th.  For more details, click HERE.

http://sonnyknight.com/


Saturday, October 8, 2016

The Duck & The Bear "Goin' Up The Country"

A 1969 Atlantic Records recording session, covering "Goin' Up The Country" by Canned Heat.  Quite the list of players on this session... all connected to Muscles Shoals, and Memphis, (i.e. Stax Records).

Eddie Hinton - Lead Guitar
Johnny Sandlin - Drums, Percussion
Duane Allman - Slide Guitar
Barry Becket - Keyboards
David Hood - Bass Guitar

The Memphis Horns:

Wayne Jackson - Trumpet
Andrew Love - Tenor Saxophone
Joe Arnold - Tenor Saxophone

Friday, October 7, 2016

John Abercrombie "Timeless"

Revisiting John Abercrombie, with his track, "Timeless".  It features a trio, with Abercrombie on guitar, Jan Hammer on keys, and Jack DeJohnette, on drums.


Thursday, October 6, 2016

Les Paul & Mary Ford demonstrating multi-track recording

For all you studio geeks out there, here's a great video of Les Paul and Mary Ford demonstrating how multi-track recording actually works on "Omnibus" with Alistair Cooke, on October 23rd, 1953.

https://vimeo.com/82828405


Wednesday, October 5, 2016

Widespread Panic "Life During Wartime"


Widespread Panic covers The Talking Heads' "Life During Wartime" at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Punta Cana Dominican Republic for their Panic en la Playa series of concerts in 2014.

Tuesday, October 4, 2016

Allan Holdsworth with The Pat Smythe Trio "British Rail" live in 1974

Check out Allan Holdsworth playing with the Pat Smythe Trio on a composition called "British Rail" on the BBC segment of a TV festival gig for European radio.  The quartet is:

Allan Holdsworth: guitar
Pat Smythe: Rhodes piano
Darryl Runswick: bass
John Marshall: drums


Monday, October 3, 2016

John Coltrane "A Love Supreme"


John Coltrane played his masterpiece "A Love Supreme" in concert, only once.  This is that performance, that took place in 1965.

Sunday, October 2, 2016

Spare Parts "Right At Home"

Great new tune from Chicago's Spare Parts.  This is "Right At Home" and features solos on Moog Voyager and Rhodes, from keyboardist, Kevin Kozol.  Guitarist, Fareed Haque, wrote the tune.


Saturday, October 1, 2016

Columbia/Legacy to Release Miles Davis at Newport Box Set

A four CD box set, will span a two decade long period of time, of performances, by Miles Davis at the Newport Jazz Festival between 1955 and 1975.

http://jazztimes.com/articles/160042-columbia-legacy-to-release-miles-davis-at-newport-box-set

This article appeared on April 30th, 2015.

The Rolf Kuhn Group "Total Space"

Some hip fusion jazz from Germany.  This is the Rolf Kuhn Group, with their 1975 cut, "Total Space".  Rolf Kuhn, is a clarinet player.  But, it is his tenor sax player, Gerd Dudek, who is the main horn on this spaced out piece.  Joachim Kuhn on keys, and Phillip Catherine on guitar, are the main players in the rhythm section.  Another horn player here, is trombonist, Albert Mangelsdorff.


Plus, a bonus.  Here is the full "Total Space" album, besides the title track.


Friday, September 30, 2016

Allman Brothers Band "Gambler's Roll"


Another favorite Allman Brothers Band song of yours truly.  This is a slow, minor key blues, called "Gambler's Roll", from the Allman's comeback album, "Seven Turns", released in 1990.

Thursday, September 29, 2016

The Band "Up On Cripple Creek"


Check out rare footage of The Band, in one of it's later incarnations with Jim Weider on guitar and Randy Ciarlante on bass, playing "Up On Cripple Creek".

Wednesday, September 28, 2016

Joe Henderson Trio Muenchner Klaviersommer, 1993

Joe Henderson, Dave Holland, and Al Foster, at Muenchner Klaviersommer, in 1993.  The track listing is:

1. Serenity
2. Recorda-me
3. Body and Soul
4. Take the A Train
5. Y Todavia La Quiero


Tuesday, September 27, 2016

Bonus Post: John Coltrane "Nancy"

A bonus dose of jazz, for your Tuesday.  This is John Coltrane's ballad "Nancy" and features 'Trane on tenor sax, with his core rhythm section that included McCoy Tyner on piano, Jimmy Garrison on bass, and Elvin Jones on drums.

https://vimeo.com/183990859


Brief review: Pat Metheny @ The Guthrie Theater, Minneapolis, MN September 26th, 2016

The music Pat Metheny and his quartet played tonight at The Guthrie was very inspiring, and I was especially held in awe, by his use of a synthesizer within his electric guitar (it is one of his trademarks), that though it is a technical modification, it gives him a unique sound that few other guitarists have. His guitar virtuosity and the fluidity of what he and his band mates (on piano, upright bass, and drums, respectively) played, floored me.  


Monday, September 26, 2016

Count Basie with Clark Terry "One O'Clock Jump"


Check out a version of Count Basie's "One O'Clock Jump", performed live.  It features Basie on piano, Clark Terry on trumpet, Wardell Gray on tenor saxophone, and Buddy DeFranco on clarinet.

Sunday, September 25, 2016

Jan Akkerman "Am I Losing You?"

Yours truly is getting inspired, by this bluesy jazz instrumental by jazz guitarist, Jan Akkerman.  The tune is called, "Am I Losing You?"


Saturday, September 24, 2016

Lee Ritenour "Captain Fingers"

Check out this funky jewel of a jam, by Lee Ritenour (who has been featured on this blog numerous times before), titled "Captain Fingers", which is Ritenour's nickname as a guitarist, because of his prowess and unique style, and the title of this recording.   This track was released in 1977.  Very funky, I must say.




Friday, September 23, 2016

Bruce Springsteen jams with Phish

Bonus post alert!  Happy Birthday, Bruce Springsteen!  Watch "The Boss" jam with Phish, in 2009 at Bonnaroo in Manchester, Tennessee.  Featured songs include Wilson Pickett's "Mustang Sally", and Springsteen's songs "Bobby Jean" and "Glory Days". 

http://liveforlivemusic.com/features/watch-bruce-springsteen-jam-with-phish-in-honor-of-his-67th-birthday-today/


Eric Clapton "Tell The Truth"

As we approach the release of the new live CD culled from Eric Clapton's 2007 San Diego, California performance with J.J. Cale, here is another cut, that just happens to be on video despite the announcement of no DVD.  This is "Tell The Truth".


Thursday, September 22, 2016

Tabah @ Welcome to 1979 Studios

My brother Charlie's band, Tabah, recorded their new record, at Welcome To 1979 Studios in Nashville, Tennessee.  Here is a video, of a tour of the studio, a lovely space, and definitely inspiring.  Tabah's members are:

Cecilia Erholtz: guitar & vocals
Jeff Ley: lead guitar
Andrew Seitz: Hammond organ & keyboards
Charlie Bruber: bass
Murphy Janssen: drums


"Forever Country" tribute to country music

For the 50th anniversary of the Country Music Association Awards, a new song and video have been recorded, to honor the tradition and integrity of country music, as one of the genres that is forever rooted in the fabric of American music, even if some of the original older melodies came from Scottish and Irish tradition, before being brought forth in certain areas of the American south such as the Virginia mountains, with The Carter Family, or the Mississippi Delta, with the original country music singer, Jimmie Rodgers, "the singing brakeman".  So many great songs have come since then, as have so many great artists.  This tribute for the CMA Awards is a small sample and features the following songs sung by the following artists.

John Denver's "Take Me Home, Country Roads"
Willie Nelson's "On The Road Again"
Dolly Parton's "I Will Always Love You"

Contributing artists to the track, include stars from the past and the present. Willie Nelson, Dolly Parton, George Strait, Reba McEntire, Alan Jackson, Tim McGraw, Blake Shelton, Carrie Underwood, Faith Hill, Keith Urban, Miranda Lambert, and others.



Wednesday, September 21, 2016

The Song That Never Ends: Why Earth, Wind, & Fire's 'September' Sustains

The story behind a favorite song of yours truly.

http://www.npr.org/2014/09/19/349621429/the-song-that-never-ends-why-earth-wind-fires-september-sustains


Charley Patton "Rattlesnake Blues"

Another classic, from one of the fathers of the Delta Blues, Charley Patton.  This one is called "Rattlesnake Blues".





Tuesday, September 20, 2016

Black Market Brass performs in The Current studio

This is the Afro Beat group, that my brother Charlie plays bass for.  Black Market Brass, have just released their first studio record, "Cheat & Start A Fight".  Check out the new record, recorded on Secret Stash Records.  The band lineup is:

Rhythm section:

Mitch Sigurdson: guitar
Hans Kreuger: guitar
David Tullis: congas
Charlie Bruber: bass
Murphy Janssen: drums
Sam Harvey-Carlson: keyboards

Horns:

Ryan Splinter: trombone
Cole Pulice: baritone saxophone
Cameron Kinghorn: trumpet
Jared Jarvis: tenor saxophone

Percussion section:

Jay Johnson: gankougui
Andy Myers: shekere
Tony Schriner: Bongos
Andres Crovetti: gankougui
Connor Klausing: wood block, shekere

http://www.thecurrent.org/feature/2016/09/16/black-market-brass-perform-in-the-current-studio


Monday, September 19, 2016

Willie Brown "Ragged And Dirty"

Blues guitarist Willie Brown performs his song "Ragged And Dirty" from 1942.  Brown, is mentioned by Robert Johnson, in some of his songs.  Oddly, the picture for this video, is not of Brown, but of Son House. 

Sunday, September 18, 2016

Wet Willie "Grits Ain't Groceries" September 10th, 1973

Check out this classic Wet Willie song.  A cover of Little Milton's "Grits Ain't Groceries" taken from a show on September 10th, 1973.  Two words.  Jimmy Hall!


Saturday, September 17, 2016

Michael Brecker Group "Upside Downside"

Check out the Michael Brecker Group, playing the tune "Upside Downside" live in 1987 at BJD Bratislava.  The quintet band lineup is:

Michael Brecker: tenor saxophone & EWI
Mike Stern: guitar
Joey Calderazzo: piano & keyboards
Jeff Andrews: bass
Adam Nussbaum: drums



Friday, September 16, 2016

Chick Corea "Compadres"

From his 1982 "Touchstone" record, here is Chick Corea, with the tune "Compadres".


This album, had quite the personnel list on it, in the form of guest artists, in addition to the core band lineup, including Corea's Return To Forever band mates, appearing throughout.

Don Alias – bongos, congas, drums, percussion
Carlos Benavent – bass
Chick Corea – cymbals, guitar, moog synthesizer, piano, synthesizer
Laudir DeOliveira – caixa, drums, ganza, percussion, sound effects
Bill Gottlieb – cello
Gregg Gottlieb – cello
Bob Magnusson – bass
Gayle Moran – speech/speaker/speaking part, vocals, voices
Carol Shive – violin


guest artists :

Alex Acu̱a Рcymbals, drums, percussion
Stanley Clarke – bass
Al Di Meola – guitar
Lee Konitz – alto sax
Steve Kujala – flute, tenor sax
Paco de Lucía – guitar, hand clapping, percussion
Allen Vizzutti – trumpet
Lenny White – drums



Thursday, September 15, 2016

Stanley Clarke "Funk Is It's Own Reward"

Cool Stanley Clarke track from his "East River Drive" record, entitled, "Funk Is It's Own Reward".  Quite an array of musicians play on the recording.  The credits, are below the video.


Stanley Clarke – bass, background vocals,string arrangements, sequencing, tenor bass
Gerald Albright – alto / soprano saxophone
Ramon Banda – percussion
Gerry Brown – drums
Dennis Chambers – drums
Todd Cochran – keyboards
George Duke – piano, keyboards
James Earl – bass
Alexis England – background vocals
Charles Fambrough – acoustic bass
Howard Hewett – vocals
George Howard – bass, soprano saxophone
Steve Hunt – keyboards
Darryl Jackson – percussion
Munyungo Jackson – percussion
Paul Jackson, Jr. – guitar
Alphonso Johnson – bass
Deron Johnson – keyboards
Kenny Kirkland – piano
Abraham Laboriel – bass
Hubert Laws – flute
Jean-Luc Ponty – Violin
Doc Powell – guitar
John "J.R." Robinson – drums
Laura Robinson – background vocals
Armand Sabal-Lecco – guitar, bass, piccolo, programming, background vocals, piccolo bass
Poncho Sanchez – conga
Bill Summers – percussion

Anjani Thomas – background vocals
Michael Thompson – guitar
Michael Hart Thompson – guitar
Carlos Vega – drums
Doug Webb – soprano saxophone

Wednesday, September 14, 2016

Tedeschi Trucks Band at Lockn' Festival, Oak Ridge Estate, Arrington, Virginia August 27th, 2016


Check out the Tedeschi Trucks Band performing at Lockn' Festival in Arrington, Virginia on August 27th, 2016.  Here is the set list.

1. Don't Know What It Means
2. The Letter (The Box Tops cover)
3. Laugh About It
4. Within You Without You (The Beatles cover)
5. Just As Strange
6. I Want More
7. Color of the Blues (George Jones cover)
8. Leaving Trunk (Sleepy John Estes cover)
9. Keep On Growing (Derek and the Dominos cover)
10. Had to Cry Today (Blind Faith cover)
11. Sticks and Stones (Titus Turner cover)
12. I Pity the Fool (Bobby “Blue” Bland cover)
13. Bitches Brew (Miles Davis cover)
14. Let Me Get By

*Note.  Watch the video, via YouTube.  

Tuesday, September 13, 2016

Rahsaan Roland Kirk "Serenade to a Cuckoo"


The original version of this song has Rahsaan Roland Kirk on flute, along with pianist Horace Parlan, bassist Michael Flemmng, and drummer Walter Perkins.  There is also a more elaborate version from 1972, with Roland Kirk playing several wind instruments, in the same piece.

Monday, September 12, 2016

Soft Machine "Hazard Profile"

Revisiting English prog rock/fusion band, Soft Machine, and their monster instrumental, "Hazard Profile".  The band lineup is:

Roy Babbington – bass guitar
Allan Holdsworth – electric, acoustic, and 12-string guitars
Karl Jenkins - oboe, piano, electric piano, soprano saxophone
John Marshall – drums, percussion
Mike Ratledge – (Lowrey Holiday Deluxe) organ, (Fender Rhodes) electric piano, (AKS) synthesizer[2]