The old thread is taking 'way too long to pull up. Post your previews, reviews and comments on the current state of Jazz in New York here.

Don't forget to check out the BGO Jazz Marathon Wednesday at Birdland, from 4pm to 2am -- lots of top artists. Should be FUN!

Thank you-Life's too short.

Yes, please use the new one,the the score is:

L.A. Jazz Scene - 62
NYC Jazz Scene - 3

(I was thoroughly intimidated with that 1,012 to 63 ratio.)

In case this becomes the new thread, I'm posting on both...

Hey, the more the merrier. Do I have to call for "hang" for there to be one? Maybe we can even get Josh to hear Eric A.... ahh, maybe not. :>) (I'm razzing you Josh!)

BTW, 3 Liters of Duval for $95 is only a little steep. www dot johnsgrocery dot com has a 1.5 liter Chimay for $26.95. John's Grocery is a great place for beer glasses, by the way (not beer, their prices are steep). However, if you're talking Belgian, Chimay is the best, even in their lowest version (the Premier). When you get to the Chimay Grande Reserve, whew... no comparison. If you ever get a hankering to try out that $95 beer, be careful. Belgian brews are heady. Duval and Chimay typically push 7% alcohol. They'll knock you on your butt if you're not careful.

As for Wynton's special affinity for Marciac, he must like mud. There's lots of it there. Ask the people who got their cars stuck in it. Let's just say that other than a Jazz festival, Marciac is probably best known for livestock.

Later,
Kevin

Kevin--I'm not sure one can unequivocally name a "best" Belgian beer, just as nobody (except Heaney) could name a best trumpeter. I love Orval, for instance, but it is extremely hoppy and not to everybody's taste. Also, within most brands there are different brews (e.g. Trippel, Dubbel, Blonde, etc.).

When is this Up Over gig? It's in my neighborhood.

Damn, and I just got my new modem connection and was so proud when I found I could load the old thread in under a minute. And I have my Japanese Windows now too... so I can post stuff that look like crative junk to all you single-byte character users out there...like this:‚±‚ñ‚¢‚¿‚í.

Checking in on the new thread. The other one took too long to load. Who cares how many posts there are except for self absorbed people who post like crazy?

I resemble that remark

Not quite.

Ahhh, Pete, you got me. I'm not usually one to talk in "greats" but I am *very* fond of Chimay. I usually buy it in those big (25 oz.?) bottles with the champagne cork in it. At around $9 a bottle, I have to limit myself. But Orval is OK... at least I think so. That isn't the one called "Copper Ale" (and it looks like there is literally *copper* floating in it) is it?

As for what's happening at the Up & Over, Friday and Saturday night it's hard bop heaven with Eric Alexander on the stage. While his sound may not be very original right now, most of his strongest influences are dead. To me, it's a chance to hear a guy in a straight-ahead hard bop vein. Players in this style seem to be getting fewer for some reason. Must be something about "originality".

Later,
Kevin

When are y'all going to the Up Over? Saturday is the free Max Roach gig at Prospect Park (called the Kenny Dorham Jazz Festival), and from there it's about a 15-20 minute walk to the Up Over. It might be fun to watch hardbop break a couple of tables with his enthusiasm. I saw Alexander there once, and also as part of a jam session last month in Umbria. He is pure chops--doesn't do much for me, but I love Mike LeDonne.

I'm going to the "Up Over" on Saturday. Don't forget Joe Farnsworth is also in the band and Jim Rotondi. It's going to be a great gig. I won't be there until probably 10 or 11. WOuldn't it be fun to meet everyone? I'm staying on this thread now and won't be looking at the other one, I don't have time to do both!

HP, Isn't the WBGO marathon next Wednesday (Aug. 25th)? Also, how much does it cost? Very interested in these responses, so if you know, I hope you'll tell me!

Does anyone know who's playing with Max on Sat or is just a big mystery? I'll probably be there either way.

<While his sound may not be very original right now, most of his strongest influences are dead.>

whether you know it or not, Kevin, this qualifies as faint praise at it's finest.

What IS the story on this Max Roach show at Prospect Park?? When?? Where in the park?? Who else is going to be there?? Somehow I missed this one when it came up on the old thread during one of my periodic summer vacations from this vale of sweat and wrangling...
But I WILL be at this one if I can get the downlow...

While Eric Alexander sounds like dead guys sometimes, we can all agree that he sounds like they did when they were alive.

I will be making one of my infrequent forays into NYC next Sunday, leaving Thursday. Does anybody have an expanded list on who is playing at the WBGO thing? The Birdland site had a limited listing. I would love to find out what time Dave Burrell is playing.

Any thing else going on in the clubs from Sunday night - Wednesday night? It doesn't appear to be a great week.

Boy, sometimes things look better on the screen... :>)

My comment about Alexander was meant to say that he's basically a hard bopper in the Dexter Gordon/Hank Mobley style. They're dead, Alexander's not; hence my comment. I think he puts on a tremendous show. He leaves nothing behind when he solos. Whether that style is to your liking or not, he plays his ass off. I wish I were around when the originals were playing but I wasn't. To me, Alexander gives me a chance to see a live show that just as well could have happened in 1960 as opposed to 1999.

Later,
Kevin

Ladies and Gentleman, I have the honor of welcoming to our little incestuous cyberworld, perhaps the greatest consumer-oriented jazz poster in the capitalist world, Mr. Gordon Blewis. (Post #19)

For those of you who require an introduction, Gordon was the most adept at locating discount music coupons and posting them on JCS (until that was stopped). Additionally, Gordon's cooly scientific analysis of the actual costs of the various dealers (factoring in shipping, tax, bonus points, penile stimulation value, etc) combined love of asthetics with hard numbers in a Bill Jamesian manner.

We can only hope that Gordon shares his muse here with us.

Hear,here. I second that commotion. Now, since I'm at the NYC Jazz Scene thread, can sombody do something about that damn pole at the VV? Ruins the view................

kev-only tryin' to have some fun. I actually have a couple of Alexander recordings on tape-and I like the In Europe recording w/Melvin Rhyne quite a bit.

However, despite thelil's continued concern about this, I much prefer the originals.

A new thread and already we have alot of new visitors. That's cool. Gordon just wants to avoid his good friend Andrew Hill.;)

Saw Bill Charlop last night. He was good, had some very nice moments. Didn't blow me away or anything but that's alright. Heaney and I made the peace. I least I hope so.

My grandparents however didn't enjoy the show as much as myself. Kept complaining that he didn't state the melody so you couldn't recognize what he was playing. My grandmother said, "too much piano". And grandfather thought there was too much tech. But he's more fickle then Heaney so it's tough to please the guy. Oh well.

JM: you're right, the BGO marathon IS on 8/25 Don't know how much it costs, I haven't heard them give that info.... I'll be in LA that night, so maybe I wasn't paying much attention..

HB, Where's your post re: Charlop? I want to hear all about it. Josh, I'm so glad you and HB made up.

Gordon, There's lots going on! Benny Golson at Sweet Basil, Eric Reed's N.Y. Seven (fabulous players) at the VV (I'm checking that one out!), Go see James Moody Sunday night at Iridium or check out Frank Morgan at the Standard (note, they have early sets on Sunday), The Kenny Dorham tribute at The Jazz Standard. If I think of something else, I'll post. See, there's lots going on!! There always is in N.Y.C. (my favorite city)! Have a great time!!

Gordon, we could always hit the Knit or Tonic. I'll see who's playing. Perhaps Sunday would be good.

Anyone going to see Cliff Korman/Paulo Moura tongiht at Lincoln Center at 7 pm. We could say hello...

I'll probably be at Lincoln Center tonight.

Whether you like him or not, his name is Charlap, not Charlop.

I'm not sure, I think if you really don't like him it is Charlop. Or maybe Arlchop.

Charlap, my bad.

Max Roach "& Friends", Prospect Park Bandshell, Sat. Aug. 21, 7:30 PM. Part of the Kenny Dorham Jazz Festival.

Boy this is a real lively thread when I decide not to post, but Jazzy Mary here I am as promised. I should have known you and only you would have been perpiscacious enough to head out to see a cat like Frank Morgan last night.

Yes I did see Charlap at the Blue Note on Monday and as I mentioned while I thought he was "o.k." it was a rather run of the mill trio session that I would have forgotten about in 3 months. There was something missing and I think it may be that the tunes, while for the most part they swung, didn't have that sense of forward momentum that good jazz has.

I also was up too close and the BN for some reason was unbearably hot. I did like Charlap's trio mates, particularly drummer Kenny Washington. I haven't seen a drummer use the brushes on a gig as often as KW did since Billy Higgins back with the Cedar Walton trio circa 1994. Peter Washington was on bass. Charlap spent the evening playing standards -- lots of standards -- of three-to-five minutes in duration. It wasn't a bad evening. The vox populi seemed to like it as I heard people raving about his playing saying he was "changing time signatures" at will and other comments like that.

Like you I was also very impressed with Frank Morgan's playing last night. You would have never known he had a stroke. I wish the Jazz Standard would get its act together sound-wise though as every time I go there they have sound problems. The same thing happened last week at the One for All gig.

I was very impressed with the pianist on Morgan's gig, Alan Palmer, a young cat who plays or played with Jackie McLean. It was nice for Frank to lay out and give Alan a chance to shine on that ballad where just Palmer, bassist Curtis Lundy & drummer Tony Reedus played.

I liked Frank's choice of songs too. I thought the first song -- whatever it was -- was a waste. The band seemed to be warming up and they had all those aforementioned sound troubles. I thought they started to get it together on Round Midnight and then really started to cook on the Monk tune that followed. I also liked the tune they did off KOB. Was that one Freddie Freeloader? He concluded the set with a burning version of Cherokee. Bop heaven.

I did once see Palmer lead a band at Visiones. It was funny because it was probably his first time he lead a band at a major, or at least semi-major, NYC venue and he kept asking the audience to "react." It must have been an unsophisticated bunch that night as no one would clap after solos or at the conclusion of songs.

And the lil I am officially not jealous of you anymore. I received the new Tain Watts CD in the mail last night and managed to play the first 10 cuts before heading off to bed. I'm glad that you didn't tell me you know who is on trumpet and youknowwho plays a killer solo on the very first cut. Branford Marsalis is fast becoming the supreme soprano sax player of our time if you base it on his playing on Tain's new CD. And Kenny Kirkland is, well, Kenny Kirkland. That is one side you should knock over the old ladies and jump over the baby carriages to obtain.

What's up with hardbop, did he fall off the internet? This isn't like him (several days with no contributions to this thread). Hey Chris! What's up?

As for Saturday, all systems appear good. I'm thinking that Max Roach tribute may fit in perfectly... if the weather holds!

Later,
Kevin

Weird. I sent the previous post just as hardbop was sending his! Good to see you back, hardbop.

So, are you going to the Up & Over Saturday night? I might be convinced to bring a few extra beers for sampling... maybe one of those Chimay Grande Reserves.

Later,
Kevin

We'll see. Jazzy Mary was twisting my arm last night. I may try to see LeDonne on Friday and then catch Sherman Irby at the Vanguard at the 11:30 set. I could always catch Sherman at 9:30 and then head to Brooklyn on Saturday. Let me know if you are definitely going to go to the Up 'n Over on Saturday. If you do go Kevin, right down the block -- two subway stops away -- is Juniors and if you like Cheesecake, well you are in heaven. The best I've ever had. Get the slice of strawberry cheesecake. We should probably make a reservation too to assure we get a table. He's been packing them in over there.

I'll make the reservation under the handle "Rodo." He may not be with us in body, but he certainly will be in spirit.

Yeah, but if we go, it should be before the Dorham tribute concert at 7:30. This could be an awesome night of Jazz if the weather holds. They're saying there's a chance of rain Saturday. Keep our fingers crossed.

Hey, hardbop, does the Jazz Record Center open on Saturdays again? The store owner... what a maroon... who with any business acuman closes your store on Saturdays? That was brilliant. I hope it was only for July!!

Later,
Kevin

I think there is a conflict. If the KD tribute concert is at 7:30 -- assuming it starts promptly at 7:30 -- it will conflict with the LeDonne Up 'n Over gig. You will probably have to see LeDonne's second set -- which begins at 10:30 (which probably means 11 p.m). Let me know. I have no interest in seeing Max' gig unless somehow Clifford Brown gets reincarnated and shows up.

No interested in seeing Max's gig? How low can you go?

When's the first set start at the Up & Over??? If it's before 9:00, then it's certainly not typical of any Jazz club in New York that I've been to!

As for the Roach tribute... who *is* the trumpeter? Not that I care really, but I wonder who Max deems suitable to play Dorham's parts. After all, Max worked extensively with Kenny and he would know a player!

Later,
Kevin

Kevin,
I didn't know the Jazz Record Mart was closed on Saturday. Hey, if the man wants to take weekends off, more power to him. I kind of like the guy who runs that place, Fred Cohen.

I don't know why you are crazy about the JRM. I find it annoying to have to pull out each of those cardboard shelves to look at the CDs. I wish they were open or in a bin I could quickly flip through.

I'll be down in the East Village on Friday night to check out one of those Indian restaurants -- Wiehenstephanal territory -- so I plan to hit Sounds. I hope the new Horace Silver & the new Eric Reed are in the bins. And, rumour has it, promo copies of Wynton's Jelly Roll CD are floating around. If it is good as Big Train or Standard Time Vol. 4 (or his playing on Tain's CD) I want to get that one ASAP.

Max Roach is too avant garde for hardbop. Can you believe that?

Kevin,
I'd be up for a little CD shopping on Saturday during the day.

I think Cecil Bridgewater still plays with Max, after all these years.

Hardbop--avoid those Bangladeshi slop joints in the East Village. There is only one good Indian restaurant in the East Village proper, and that one is South Indian vegetarian--Madras Cafe on 2nd Ave between 4th and 5th. The best Indian restaurant near the East Village is Cafe Spice, on University near 11th. It's somewhat pricier than the 6th street places, but then Chimay is pricier than Budweiser. It's co-owned by the Indian food doyenne, Madhur Jaffrey.

By the way--a major freebie lunchtime in Midtown today--Chico O'Farrill Orchestra at the 1251 6th Ave. Plaza (@12:30).

Kevin,
The first set at the Up 'n Over starts at 9 and they kick there right at 9 or can run late -- 9:30 or so -- so I can't predict what time they'll kick.

Re. the "slop joints" on E. 6th; I don't know; it tastes good to me. Rumour has it though one person owns all those restaurants and there is one big kitchen in the back where they are all connected.

Where is 1251 A/A? What are the cross streets? I wonder if Chico will show or if son Arturo will lead the band.

Hardbop--I'm not surprised you like 6th street--18 restaurants and every dish at every one of them tastes the same. Sort of like your taste in music.

I believe 1251 is between 49 & 50. I think the plaza actually runs between 6th & 7th Ave.

HB, See, I told you everyone missed you!! Yeah, I dug Frank
all right, but like you, I wish The Standard would get the sound together too. The song they did from KOB was "All Blues"

After I left I went down to Kavehaz on Mercer St. in SoHo to see my pals. Now, THAT was fun!! That's something everyone should do because the music is really good ---Jack Walrath (t), Hillard Greene (b), Bill Bickford (g), Miles Griffith (V) and a drummer. There's no cover and the place is so comfortable and cool.

Kevin, Josh, HB etc. I am going to try to go to the "Up Over" on Saturday. I'll probably be there around 10ish.

HB, Thanks for the Wonsey CD. I'll call Wonsey and tell him I have something for him----the CD that is.

Cecil may be the trumpet player, as he lives in Brooklyn. It is always worth seeing Max Roach----whenever, however! In re: that record store being closed on Saturday, I was going to mention that perhaps the owner is Jewish and as Saturdays are the Jewish Sabbath many Jewish establishments close before sunset on Friday and are closed on Saturday, but are open on Sunday.

Jazzy Mary,
There was an e-mail in my "box" this a.m. and I didn't see him, but James Williams was in the house last night. He had to split before the set was over.

I think Tony Reedus played only the first set. He left and Yoron Israel played drums the second set.

This was only the 2nd time I caught Frank. Back in '96 when the Five Spot was literally on its last legs I caught Frank for the first time. That night he had George Cables on piano, Essiett Essiett on bass & Tony on drums.

I was talking to the guy next to me and mentioned that Cables has had a low profile lately and he said George was on one of those Caviarteria gigs with Barry Altschul. I think Santi DiBriano was on the gig as well. Altschul is a drummer right? I'd like to catch a gig at Caviarteria at least once before they end their music policy.

Percussionist extrordinnaire Ray Mantilla has a couple of gigs at that venue this month. I think he is doing some sort of Cal Tjader tribute.

And you know who else is coming into the Jazz Standard, Jane Bunnett and her Spirits of Havana band? I've seen neither her nor her band so you know I'm going to add that one to my dance card. I must admit I was underwhelmed by the Blue Note CD I purchased. I will give her another shot. You really haven't heard it until you've heard it "live" if you know what I mean.

David Hazeltine is playing trio tonight (Thursday, 8/19) at Smoke with Paul Gill (getting a night off from his gig with Diana Krall) and Tony Reedus.

Starting about 10:15. Hazeltine is as good a straight ahead pianist as NYC has to offer, and perhaps an even better writer and arranger.

Sharp9. Why did you have to remind me. I was going to skip that gig. I can attest to the level of Hazeltine's artistry seeing him recently at Sweet Basil with Joe Locke and again last week at the Jazz Standard with One for All. One can't get enough of David Hazeltine as far as I'm concerned. No cover either at Smoke. Though the crowd noise there is annoying.

Now I know why Tony can't make Frank Morgan's gig tonight.

Hardbop:

Much as I like Hazeltine in any setting, to me it's special when he's playing his own music in a trio format.

I'm even going to try to get in from the 'burbs to see it myself.

I agree there is nothing like seeing a pianist in a classic piano trio format. You, Smoke & David Hazeltine will be happy to know that a guy I know sat next to me at the Jazz Standard last night and he is a classic piano trio freak and I told him about and he's going to attend Hazeltine's Smoke gig.

This was a regular at Bradleys and has been in a deep funk since the demise of that legendary venue. I so miss that place because it was the quintessential piano trio bar. Nowhere could you here a piano trio like that place, with its first-class piano, ultra-quiet policy and great acoustics. If the joint were still open Hazeltine, James Williams and others of their ilk would be playing at Bradley's as opposed to places like the Knickerbocker and Smoke where there isn't a quiet policy.

And speaking of piano trios, I heard that Harold Mabern, my favorite pianist, will be gigging in the classic piano format on a more regular basis. I just hope the gigs are in NYC.

have read that Max Roach's trumpet player more recently has been Rod McGaha. Have heard him a couple of times with a group lead by Ed Wilkerson and Reggie Nicholson. Anybody heard him with Roach?

He played with Max at the Blue Note last year... seemed a bit nervous (believe Max said it was his first time in NYC) but acquited himself quite well.

It's being billed as a tribute to Kenny Dorham with several special guests. I would imagine a few big name trumpeters are sure to turn up.

Sharp9 are you passing bad info? The Smoke recording says Gerald Cannon is on bass w/ Hazeltine. A minor quibble. I was really calling to check when David Berkman was playing. He's on tap next Thursday a 9. His band includes soprano ace Sam Newsome.

This Friday & Saturday Chris Potter is up there with a quartet.

Berkman is next Thursday and next Friday & Saturday hard bop trumpet ace Jim Rotondi holds down the fort. On Friday the ubiquitous David Hazeltine is on the gig and on Saturday he is using another ace pianist, Michael Wiess.

On Monday, Aug. 30 the Smoke jam session gets under way and a classic trio (if you put stock in anything Peter Watrous days; I do) runs the show: Jackie Terrasson, Ugonna Ukegwo & Leon Parker.

If that's correct, there is only one play I'll be on Monday night. That would be sweet to see Terrasson get back with his former running mate Parker. And seeing as it's a "jam session" or just one gig, it should be something to look forward to. But I must start the day with Chick Corea of course at Washington Sq. Park.

May also check out Chris Potter tomorrow night. So what's the cover on the weekend?

Hardbop:

Hazeltine said it was Gill (as of last night when we spoke), but Gerald Cannon would be fine too, as he and Dave are Milwaukee homeboys who have been playing together for some 20 years.

I just got off the phone with Kevin Bresnahan and we are going to hang in Brooklyn U.S.A. at the Jazz Standard tomorrow night. Kevin can't get fulfill his jones for Thai food out in the 914 area code so do our Brooklyn mavens know of a Thai joint in Brooklyn in and around the Up 'n Over? I'm sure trendy Park Slope must have Thai restaurant.

And Sharp9 I couldn't make my way to see David Hazeltine last night, but I assume David playing his own tunes in the classic trio format was a killer gig.

And a bit of news, I forgot to mention this earlier, but the Blue Note's impressario Danny Benusen (sic) reportedly is going to open a blues hang with B.B. King & "Lucille" in Times Square.

Hardbop, "Lemon Grass Grill" on 7th Ave, just a few blocks south of Flatbush, has pretty good Thai food (not that Thai is trendy anymore!). Enjoy.

A better choice is Thai Lagoon @ 238 Flatbush Avenue. It's right up the street from the Up Over.

HB, I'm confused..."hang at the Jazz Standard" in Brooklyn, U.S.A.? You mean the "Up Over"? The Mike LeDonne gig is gonna be killin'!!! Did anyone hear the interview on WBGO w/ him yesterday? It was very interesting. Le Donne is one of Oscar Peterson's favorite pianists!!

I stand corrected Jazzy Mary. The hang is at the Up 'n Over for the hard swingin' Mr. LeDonne.

I disagree strongly on Lemongrass Grill. Frankly I think it sucks. I'm not too fond of the place Adrienne mentions, but I haven't been there in years. For a neighborhood full of yuppies, Park Slope has a dearth of good restaurants. However, now we have one of the best restaurants in the city, the recently opened Peruvian restaurant called Coco Roco--but it's a bit of a trek from Up Over--5th Ave near 6th Street. I've been there about 6 times with Manhattanites, all who have said they would make the trip to Brooklyn anytime to eat there.

However, the Lemongrass is very popular and has developed into a chain. The owners and kitchen are not Thai, but Malaysian Chinese. The same family owns a bad Japanese restaurant in Park Slope and a bad Malaysian restaurant that used to be a bad Vietnamese restaurant, as well as a place I haven't tried that is trying to be like Zen Palate.

Pete is the man. You should write a restaurant book.

Sounds like the Thai Lagoon is the place to try. I'm not big on going to a Malaysian Thai restaurant!! :>) I think I may have even tried this Lemongrass chain before and I left thoroughly unimpressed. We better call to see if they have Sing-Ha beer. Sing-Ha is an important part of enjoying Thai cuisine.... and we must order the Tod-man for an appetizer if they have it!

Later,
Kevin

Sounds like it's time for a NYC Cuisine Scene.

(Start with the Jazz Standard. The food is pretty damn good.)

Kevin--I just had Tod Mon at lunch--there's a good Thai Place on 9th Ave and 51st called Chanpen.

Sharp--I think the overwhelming consensus is that the Jazz Standard has the best food of all the clubs.

I hear that the food at Yoshi's in Oakland is good.

Pete:

Yeah, but it takes too many frequent flyer miles to get to Yoshi's. (Plus the music is better in NYC).

I ate at that Thai place at 51st and 9th. It was good but not incredible, which makes me wonder if Cherches really knows his stuff. Hmm...

I tell you, good food, beer and Jazz are the best combo in the world. I used to love going to the Twenty-Tank Brewery in San Francisco when they had a Jazz policy (which I have heard is no more). A micro-brewery Jazz club... heaven.

Later,
Kevin

Well, so much for my "Lemongrass Grill" recommendation. I haven't been there in a couple of years. As for food in Brooklyn generally, (a) it's true that Park Slope is disappointing, and (b) Brooklyn Heights (where I live) isn't much better except for a clutch of excellent Arab places on Atlantic, and (c) a sufficient reason to cross the East River is Grimaldi's Pizza at Fulton landing (underneath the Brooklyn Bridge). Not only is it the best pizza I've ever had, by a large margin, but every person I've ever eaten there with says its the best pizza they have ever had.

But what the hell do I know? I'm the loser who recommended that ghastly slop-house "Lemongrass Grill" in the first place...

<<I tell you, good food, beer and Jazz are the best combo in the world.>>

I could think of a better combo which would include jazz.:)

Josh is either talking about bourbon, or the other thing (viz. W.J. Clinton)

Josh! I never said Chanpen was incredible. But they do have lunch specials. Siam Inn on 8th Ave. is one of the best, but much pricier. Thai House in Tribeca is pretty good too.

I've heard raves about the pizza under the Brooklyn Bridge, but haven't tried it. My current favorite is Lombardi's on Spring & Mott. I've never been to the original Patsy's uptown, but the one they opened in the Village was a disappointment. Totono's, in Coney Island deserves its accolades, but I still prefer Lombardi's.

Y'know, you guys could always go to El Gran Castillo de Jagua before the Up Over and eat some Mofongo.

I thought that pizza place under the Brooklyn Bridge (on the Brooklyn side) was called "Patsy's". Is Grimaldi's different from Patsy's? The place I went was literally under the Brooklyn Bridge. There is a lighthouse at the end of the road.

I always thought Patsy's was the one in East Harlem.

I think there might be a Brooklyn and an East Harlem Patsy's and they are or were at one time affiliated with one another. I think the Brooklyn venue was opened after the one up in E. Harlem. I've been to the former and not the latter, but I don't even know that the East Harlem version is even open anymore. At one point they were closed for "renovations." There is reportedly a "little Italy" up in East Harlem somewhere and there is a legendary Italian place up there you have probably heard of and possibly been to called "Rao's."

I heard about because I bought some Rao's tomato sauce in Rhode Island of all places and they give you the story of the restaurant, which I'd never heard of, on the jar.

Rao's reportedly is tiny and they have two seatings a night and all the swells go up there and it is tough to get reservations.

OK, here's the (abbreviated and no doubt slightly inaccurate) story on Patsy's/Patsy' Grimaldi's/Grimaldis. You can read the whole story on the place mats at the place under the Brooklyn Bridge.

Once upon a time there was one Patsy's, in East Harlem. Mr. Patsy Grimaldi, the son of the owner of East Harlem Patsy's, opened his own restaurant under the Brooklyn Bridge. It was, and is, sublime, and became moderately famous. Then, the original Patsy's closed (retirement, I think) and sold their name to some sleaze ball restaurant entrepreneurs. Not only did the sleaze balls open a bunch of mediocre pizza joints around Manhattan under the name "Patsy's", but they had the nerve to sue Patsy Grimaldi and tell him that he could no longer use the name "Patsy's". Well, Mr. Grimaldi lost in the end, but his restaurant is as wonderful as ever, and is now known as "Grimaldi's". There is only one other restaurant owned by Patsy Grimaldi, and it is in Hoboken.

As for Lombardi's, John's, etc - everyone I know who has been to Grimaldi's and Lombardi's and/or John's thinks Grimaldi's is the best (which is not to say that Lombardi's, John's, etc aren't good).

Jazz content: I saw Spike Lee at Grimaldi's once, and his dad is a jazz musician, and he has made movies with jazz themes and music.

Grimaldi's -THE best,unbelievable how good this place is!!-No comparison to John's.

Okay, here's the deal with Rao's (pronounced rayo's) up in Harlem.

It's not just HARD to get a reservation, it's virtually IMPOSSIBLE. They cater to a chosen few since they have a limited amount of tables and the joint is small. By a chosen few, I don't mean just celebrities and the glitterati, but longtime regulars, who are also regular people like you and me. The only way to get in is to be accompanied by one of these regulars or be given their table by them if they put the word in for you or be Woody Allen or Spike Lee or Al D'Amato, you know, somebody like that. It's an "inside" place, very clubby but very down to earth. As I said, their are some regulars that are just "plain folks".

The book on the food is that it's very good but nothing better than your decent midtown or Village boite. It has just developed a mystique similar to say, Studio 54 back in the day, everyone wanting to get in because it was hard to, but in reality nothing above and beyond the norm.

One of the draws of the place is the owner, Frank Pellegrino, who is quite a character and fancies himself a singer. He's not, but he loves music. As a matter of fact, Rao's has a cookbook out which includes a cd featuring Pellegrino crooning. Most nights he spends his time going from table to table schmoozing and is wont to break out in song with everyone joining in as if at an Italian wedding. But alas, us peasants have to make do with The Four Seasons or Lutece.................

BTW, Mike LeDonne is a Connecticut boy. We're very proud of him.

Rao's is in Harlem?Where?I saw the dude on T.V. make a sausage and Broccoli rabe pasta that did look soulful and awesome.I've probably got a better chance to be signed by Blue Note records than getting in this place!?

do you know that the one on Hobeken brings the water from brookyln? They say it's the key to the dough

After reading all these posts I'm hungry and it is not even 9 o'clock. Well, back to jazz.

On a rainy Friday I caught Sherman Irby at the Vanguard and he and his band -- and I emphasize the word band -- were killin' and swinging their collective butts off during an 1-hour, 20-minute set. You could tell that rhythm section didn't have to introduce themselves to each other before the gig because they played as one right from the git-go. Hell, I even liked Gerald Cannon's bass solo and Willie Jones III's drum solo.

Sherman, an ex-member of the LCJO, plays alto and his pianist is another one I'd like to see get a record deal somewhere. Who is this cat Charles Craig?

Like Alan Palmer who held down the piano chair in Frank Morgan's Jazz Standard gig, if they had come on the scene in the 80s or early 90s during the full flowering of Wynton's neo-con movement they would have been signed to a major label deal and had five or six CDs under their belts by now. Damn. There are so many good musicians.

And I think the Vanguard tossed out some unruly patrons. I can confirm that they were noisy, but I don't know if they left under their own volition or if they were tossed. And I will say the only people in the Vanguard who used English as their primary language were me, the help and the band. The place was filled with Japanese & Euro tourists. I didn't see one good 'ol American, never mind a native New Yorker.

On to the Up 'n Over on Saturday where I hooked up with "Mr. Blue Note" himself (replete with BN watch) Kevin Bresnahan. I met James Harrigan and Jazzy Mary was there as well to catch some real hard swing. LeDonne's killer quintet included Eric Alexander on tenor, Jim Rotondi on trumpet & fluegelhorn, Joe Farnsworth on drums and Ira Coleman on bass. They did lots of tunes from LeDonne's new Double-Time CD and Kevin, myself and a few others I noticed all bought the CD which he was selling at the gig. I don't know why more musicians don't sell their CDs at gigs. They could go home a couple of hundred or at least a hundred dollars richer each night. Farnsworth soloed quite a bit at LeDonne's gig and during the first set anyway they only played like 3 tunes so the band members were really given an opportunity to stretch out.

And that was Tadd Shull sitting next to Jazzy Mary & James' table. He's a tenor player I believe who I caught fairly recently up at the Savoy. He's got a couple of pretty good discs out on Criss Cross. In fact, LeDonne was on Shull's Savoy gig.

And I think the owner of the Up 'n Over should change the name of it to "Hardbop Heaven" or "The Hardbop House" after seeing his September line-up that includes the George Coleman Quartet with Harold Mabern and the incomparable Billy Harper and his equally fantastic quintet. And then Alexander and Rotondi are back at the end of September leading another killer quintet.

This week is another absolutely killer week with all sorts of interesting musicians gigging. But, hell, you could say that every week.

I know Wynton Marsalis has a "free" gig down at City Hall Park on Friday. J&R Music World is sponsoring the event and after the concerts the musicians who are gigging at these free concerts go back to J&R to sign CDs. However, there was an asterisk next to WM's name and he's the only musician not making the trek back to J&R. I'll say one thing for WM, he should get his butt over there. I've seen his classical music CDs, A Fiddler's Tale & the Octoroon Ball, selling for $4.49 at Academy. Looks like he should get the lead out and step up the promo activity.

I also noticed that Mark Whitfield and Peter Delano are gigging at that City Hall Park/J&R series and they are listed as "Transparent Music Recording Artists." So does that mean Mark didn't make the cut at the combined Verve/Impulse? I wonder if Chuck Mitchell, the former head of Verve who got squeezed out of his gig when the companies merged, has his fingerprints on Transparent Music? After all Delano did record for Verve at one time and, as mentioned, Whitfield was with Verve.

I'll say one thing, Mitchell was named "Record Executive of the Year" and Verve "Label of the Year" in Downbeat 2 years ago and to show you that no one takes DB seriously to paraphrase Chris Albertson, he got the axe right after. Maybe Chris A. is on to something for once in his life when he said no one takes DB seriously anymore. I hope for Bruce Lundvall's sake, the most recent DB executive/label of they year winner (Blue Note), that there isn't one of those "Sports Illustrated" curses associated with DB record of the year nominations.

What else, oh, the gigs on my dancecard this week. Well I hope to catch Eric Reed and that killer line-up he has at the Vanguard early in the week. In fact, I picked up his new Manhattan Melodies CD on Friday night. And I don't know how Kevin or Josh could have passed up that killer Tain Watts disc that I saw in Sounds for $6.99.

And I've never seen Monty Alexander in a club and he's up at the Iridium this. On Thursday I hope to finally see David Berkman, with Sam Newsome in tow, at Smoke on Thursday. Speaking of Newsome, his new Steeplechase disc, The Tender Side of Sammy the Straighthorn, is real nice. And on the weekend, if I can do some long-range planning, I hope to catch Hilton Ruiz' solo piano gig at the Jazz Gallery and then head up to Birdland to catch the 11 o'clock set where Steve Turre & Ray Barretto are leading a band that will focus on the Tizol and Latin side of Ellington.

As they say in the trades, Jazz Is Bustin' Out All Over!

Let's see. We have the best week for free jazz concerts for the whole year. 12 months boil down to this one week. And Heaney barely mentions what's going on, let alone attending one of the shows. I can't figure it out.

Anyone going to see Andrew Hill tomorrow at Lincoln Center?

What's Monty Alexander at the Iridium, Eric Reed at the Vanguard, David Berkman at the cover-free Smoke (weeknights anyway), Hilton Ruiz at the Jazz Gallery and Steve Turre at Birdland chopped liver?

What is so great about the outdoor gigs? The acoustics are horrendous. I would rather see them in a pristine venue like the Vanguard. Cause if you haven't heard 'em at the Vanguard then you haven't heard 'em.

The free gigs are impressive though I must admit:

Thursday at 5 City Hall Park
Herbie Hancock
Mark Whitefield
Peter Delano
JK
Robyn Springer

Friday at 5 City Hall Park
Wynton "The Man" Marsalis
Eric Reed (who must be doing double duty that day; actually quadruple duty as he's got 3 sets at the VV later than evening)
Charlie Hunter w/ Adam Cruz
Nelson Rangell
Mike Stern
Kenny Garrett
Rodney Jones

And isn't Chick Corea playing somewhere with Regina Carter for free. Since I've seen Chick at the Blue Note and Regina at the Vanguard, well I'll skip 'em, but do highly recommend 'em both. Chick's new band, Origin, kills and Regina is well like nothing else. Love that jazz violin.

And speaking of jazz violin, I almost forgot that Circle Chant, Santi DiBriano's band, with the incomparable Miri Ben-Ari on violin, has a Labor Day weekend gig at the Up n Over. You Brooklyn-ites should miss that one.

Josh-I'm tryin' to make it for Andrew Hill-we'll let you know tommorow....

Well for whoever is going to the Hill gig, I can hold seats. It starts at 6:30 so I'll go straight from work. Shouldn't be too crowded at that time.

Coming Pete?

What a fabulous weekend. As HB mentioned, it was the Speakeasy crowd at the "Up Over" on Saturday night. I hung w/ "I'm in Heaven" HArdbop, the incomparable Mr. Harrrigan and "the first time I've met him" Mr. Bresnahan (nice to meet you, Kevin). The band was killin' and I talked a little bit to Joe Farnsworth (total sweetie) and to Eric Alexander who introduced me to his lovely wife.

Then last night I ran to Iridium to catch James Moody. That was so FABULOUS. Really, the man is just too much. His playing is so.... well just wonderful and flawless. He had Renee Rosnes on piano and she played beautifully and, I guess, his regular players on bass and drums. Annie Ross and George Coleman were there ( not together) AND my childhood HERO---SOUPY SALES!!! I was so excited! But then I had a mad crush on Mr. Green Jeans too (I guess the less said about that the better).

I'm w/ HB re: this week---Eric Reed not be missed, Billy KAye (w/ a killer band) at the "Up Over" and on and on....

If you didn't get your fill of Mr. Rotondi at the Up 'n Over last weekend, he's leading a quartet up at Smoke on Friday & Saturday. David Hazeltine is on piano on Friday and Michael Weiss on Saturday. Too much jazz. Too little time.

Josh--Hill was such a deadly bore at Caramoor, I may skip it. I'll decide tomorrow.

Kevin--where'd ya eat in Brooklyn?

So, for some reason the Roach gig in Prospect Park was canceled. I got there at 9, aiming for the 2nd half, after a spectacular Peruvian dinner at Coco Roco, and it was a ghost town. THe signs just said "canceled".

I will absolutely be at Tompkins Sq. on Sunday, probably at City Hall on Thurs. for Hancock & Whitfield, Friday at LC for Workman (although, like the KOB gig, Ravi playing the part of John in Africa Brass is Kind of Morbid), and Saturday afternoon for Garrett at City Hall. Will skip Wynton "the man"--I'm waiting until he has the operation and becomes Wynton "the woman".

Pete-if Ehrlich & Drummond are in the band-I'm sure no matter what shape his chops are in or mood that Hill is in, the show probably won't be a bore.

With a band like this-where subtlety is crucial, I also have a concern how this band's sound will translate in an outdoor venue.

Pete, we had to go to the Lemon Grass Grill since the other place mentioned, The Thai Lagoon, is now a sleazy-looking bar! The Pad Thai was very good which was good since it offset a far-too-sweet Gra Pao Gai (Spicy Chicken with basil). The Tod Mun Pla was OK if not a little too thick (I like it a little crisper). The peanut sauce was like candy and very thick but not bad by any means. I'd go back... but I'd rather try another of your recommendations next time.

As for the show, driving home to Poughkeepsie was a chore, let me tell ya' (arriving at 2:30 AM)! I was really cranking the tunes by the time I was at the route 84 exit off the Taconic. I picked up a copy of the impossible-to-find "Dark Tree Vol. 1" by Horace Tapscott at Academy and it's outside leanings kept me a bit more on edge. The other great driving CD I picked up was the oop CD "V" by Ralph Peterson's old quintet. Smokin!

The LeDonne gig was high-octane... just the way I like live Jazz. I think I know why I like Eric Alexander so much live. He always has Farnsworth with him on drums. I don't know why, but Farnsworth seems to *really* kick EA in the butt when he solos. The increase in volume why he's drumming behind him is very noticeable. I'm surprised hardbop can hear this morning. He was closer to the drum kit than me.

As for LeDonne's CD, it skipped! I was playing it Sunday morning and it started skipping wildly. I took ot out of the player and I found this gummy glue all over it. A little elbow grease and it came off but what a pain!

Glad I finally met Jazz Mary. Sorry I didn't bring a nice bottle of Cab to share but I thought hardbop would like the beer drinking company. Too bad only he got to finish his. There's no way I would have been able to get home if I had drank all that beer.

I'm thinking about taking my daughters into the Charlie Parker festival next Sunday. Who (other than Josh) is going to this? Of course, it would be weather permitting...

Later,
Kevin

"Who (other than Josh) is going to this?" was *not* meant to say that I don't want to go with *only* Josh!! :>)

Later,
Kevin

Pete,
Yeah seeing Hill with his Point of Departure Sextet is totally different then seeing him with a smaller group.

Do you have the rest of the lineup for the Africa Brass show? And how did you find that out?

I think the Roach gig must of been canceled because of the weather or potential for rain.

Kevin,
For a second there I was almost offended.;)

Chick and Regina will be in Washington Sq. Monday night... am really looking forward to seeing my homegirl.

The Andrew Hill show tomorrow night is, I believe, not one of his solo or trio gigs, but a reprise of the beautifully arranged "Point of Departure" sextet shows he did at Birdland last winter. This setup minimizes Andrew's piano playing down to mostly his interesting comping while showcasing his still-fascinating compositions. Andrew never had great (or at least conventional) chops in the first place, and his playing has really been slowed by arthritis in recent years.

I'm also a bit worried about the Max Roach cancellation on Saturday -- was it the weather, or something else?? Does anyone out there know how Max is doing??
Well, at least Coco Roco was as good as advertised... man, that was some good chicken, thanks for the tip (and i was dreading having to look for someplace decent to eat in the Slope).

Oh, and Rao's is almost invisibly nestled in the basement of a building at 116th St. & Pleasant Ave. (a block east of 1st Ave.), there is also a pretty good old Italian bar with pretty damn good authentic inexpensive food and a real old neighborhood feeling called Andy's Colonial Tavern on 1st Ave in that same area, and of course a few great Mexican places further back down 116th.

Well, Kevin I should have brought that last beer back home. I was half in the wrapper and almost missed my subway stop. Remember those weren't 12 ounce beers; they were pints. Those 3 beers coupled with the Thai beer I drank at dinner were a bit much. It was really fun jogging yesterday. At about the 28 minute mark the after effects began to kick in, but I managed to tough it out and finish my run. You should take the 1:30 or 12:30 train back to Poughkeepsie when you come in for your dose of swing and then you wouldn't have to worry about drinking or getting tired. If you nod off, so what, Poughkeepsie is the last stop on the line anyway. If you have a portable walkman you can even listen to your CDs.

And if you want something in return for that Houdini's CD you gave me take a look at my list on Jim's JTP and I'll send it to you.

What is the name of that hotel you stayed in at Paris? A friend of mine gave me a recommendation, but it is priced a little higher - $100 a night.

Oh btw. For Chris, Adrienne and Laurie (who never seems to check in here these days), Aogi sends here regards. She also sent a few pictures that she took of us at SOB's. Next time I see you Adrienne and Laurie, I'll try to bring them.

Al: are you from Detroit? I saw Regina Carter about 6 or 7 years ago at Baker's Keyboard Lounge when she played with "Straight Ahead" (An annoying name for an ok groupd, since they are definitely not straight ahead). There was a nice photo in today's Times from the annual African Fest at Hart Plaza of two young girls named McKinney - I wonder if they are related to the Detroit jazz McKinneys.

For those of you going to the Andrew Hill Sextet show, keep an ear open for the trumpeter, the brilliant and artful and utterly unknown (outside various Jazz Composer's Collective contexts) Ron Horton.

Oh, Kevin, two more things. What was the name of that Herb Ellis CD you recommended? I wrote it down when you originally told me, but as is usually the case I can't find it.

And I almost had a heart attack on Sunday when I looked in my CD rack and could not immediately locate my Bobby Watson Post Motown Bop CD so I could check out that bass player "Carroll." I didn't see any photos on any of the three BW Blue Note CDs. I don't know "Carroll" (I forget the last name) is a he or a she.

I take back what I said about never seeing a female bass player. There was this young woman who played at the J Curve Records Party I caught at Birdland a couple of months ago, Miriam Sullivan. She played with singer Lenora Zenzalai Helm. The bass was bigger than she was, but she played it pretty well and that is all that matters. I was even more impressed to see her carry the bass and her amp out the door with her. She was pretty adept at carrying that stuff around.

Yes James... Detroit born and bred, and remember Baker's very fondly from my misspent youth (which I seem to have misspent there in the company of my father -- wonder what his excuse was??). I'll be back there over Labor Day weekend for our traditional family reunion over in Canada, and, of course, the Montreux-Detroit Jazz Festival orgy (all weekend, noon to 11, 4 stages in Hart Plaza <which is where that photo in the Times was taken>, all FREE). Josh would love this. And it looks like they actually have a pretty strong line-up this year.

Prospect Park has a rain or shine policy, and they now have a fully covered stage, so it wasn't weather that canceled Max.

Al--in addition to Chicken Coco Roco does great Ceviche and seafood dishes. I should have mentioned that there's a decent Peruvian Pilsener, Cuzcen~a.

I can't remember where I saw that Ravi is going to be in that Africa thing with Workman--maybe on one of the handouts at another concert there? No other details on personnel.

And after this week's goings-on here in NYC... followed by my Detroit weekend, I may be all jazzed-out for the fall (yeah, right... tell that to my wife, and brace yourself for the hurricane of laughter...).

Serendipity: I can respond to two different sub-threads with one observation.

Detroit has an extremely talented woman bass player named Marion Hayden. She's better than many people that I see play in New York, and is charming and beautiful as well. She keeps perfect time, always swings, and solos beautifully. She has a particular knack during soloing for maintaining the swing and beat of the tune - something that remarkably few bassists and drummers can handle. She spoke with me at length once about the troubles she had coming up with local guys not taking her seriously as a player because of her sex, but nowadays she is pretty well-accepted and busy. She's a feminist in the best sense, and spends a lot of her energy promoting jazz and in particular encouraging girls to play jazz. The only recording I have that she is on is one by Donald Walden, a local Detroit tenor sax treasure.

Al: have a great time at Montreux-Detroit. I have many happy memories from that sun-baked plaza (I'm sure you don't need to be reminded, but take a cushion and lots of water).

A couple of other interesting jazz-related things as part of the Panasonic/Village jazz fest. On Friday at 4 there is a "free" lecture at Sweet Basil called "Jazz in Greenwich Village." Art D'Lugoff, who ran the Village Gate into the ground, is the lecturer.

Later that same evening at 8 that film some of us were discussing on the jazz in film thread "Sweet Love Bitter" is playing at Walker Street Studio, 58 Walker Street. I've never seen the film, but Dick Gregory plays a fictionalized Bird. I own the Impulse soundtrack (under Mal Waldron's name) but it is a Japanese import that I don't think has been reissued by CD by Impulse in the U.S.

I wouldn't be surprised if Max had canceled out. He did something similiar last year at the Y for the 3rd part of his "Max Roach's America" thing. Discretion demands that I not go in to detail, but it was a ridiculous thing (on Max's part) having to do with money. Well, he is a genius!

Discretion is the better part of valor.
Money is the root of all evil.

Anybody hip to the WBGO Jazzathon going on at Birdland this Wednesday from 4:00 pm to 2:00 am?

$25.00 at the door goes to WBGO, musicians playing for free.
Don Braden is the "musical director." Artists include Etta Jones and Houston Person, Louis Hayes Quartet, Reenee Rosnes Trio, Kenny Barron, Benny Green, Javon Jackson, Joe Locke/David Hazeltine Quartet, and many others.

Good music. Good cause.

Max is an "interesting" guy. I was at one of those J@LC film programs where they show clips from feature films or shorts and in this case Tony Williams was doing one on drummers. Tony mentioned that Max was his idol/mentor and said out of deference to Max he wouldn't show any clips of Max because Max didn't approve of what the J@LC was all about.

Later I saw a brief piece where Max and Wynton were doing some sort of benefit concert together on Long Island so I guess they made nice-nice.

I should also point out that Max did sit for one of those J@LC lectures where musicians are interviewed for an hour and the audience can ask questions. He arrived, but late, as he said he had a meeting with a record company executive.

They are pretty interesting. I caught Marcus Roberts, Max, Betty Carter, Hank Jones, John Lewis, Benny Golson on Blakey, Jon Faddis, Stanley Crouch reading from his long in gestation Bird bio, et al.

The number of pianists in the audience for the Jones lecture was mind-boggling and a lot of ex-Messengers turned out for Golson's talk on Bu. John Lewis' was absolutely horrible as he read the text of some lecture he prepared from some course he taught.

The best one was when Schaap interviewed Faddis and, as you would expect when the verbose Schaap is around, at one point Faddis couldn't get in a word edge wise. Somehow the talk segued into a debate about digital vs. analog and Faddis finally turned to Schaap and said "I thought this was supposed to be about me" and Schaap said "please let just answer the question re. digital vs. analog" and the audience began shouting "no, no, no." It was hilarious and he never did get to answer the question.

Hey, Sharp9 you'll be pleased to know that in the care package I just received from Cadence there is a full color promo piece included that has Dena DeRose's mug on it promoting one her Sharp9 CDs.

I also should note that in the package was David Hazeltine's Venus label (hard-to-find Japanese import) "Waltz for Debby" CD, which I believe is a tribute of sorts to Bill Evans.

That's a shame because it was a tribute to Kenny Dorham, not Max Roach. Therefore he should of been a man about it and done the gig. That's assuming money was the issue.

Kevin ~ Sorry about the Thai Lagoon. Last time I was there, it wasn't a "sleezy-looking bar", but a legitimate restaurant with descent food.

Josh ~ Thanks for the shout-out from Aogi. I'm still thinking about hanging at the Charlie Parker Festival on Sunday. Maybe we can hook up then.

Let's not assume. Let's give Max the benefit of the doubt. I would hate to see a cyber-community creating all sorts of rumours about a man who shares a birthday with my mother.

Max IS an interesting person...

Pete, I believe it's "the love of <Money is the root of all evil.>

Let's DO give Max the benefit of the doubt. I have no idea why the Prospect Park thing was cancelled. I was just recounting a story I had heard about his "Y" gig.

Hardbop:

I keep telling everyone that my girl Dena is absolutely the real deal and is going places. May take a minute or two, but she's going to get there.

Hazeltine's Waltz For Debby is hard to find, but I have a copy. In fact, I suggested the date to Todd Barkan, who produces most of the Venus CD's (which are all trios), because Bill Evans is very popular in Japan and I thought it would be a good way to get Hazeltine higher visibility over there.

It's a very impressive CD from Dave because it is difficult material and he's not a "Bill Evans" type pianist; he's more from the hardbop (sorry to borrow your moniker) wing of the jazz piano family.

It's possible that this CD will be released here on Sharp Nine, although Venus' owner seems to be in no hurry to make a deal with me.

If you're going to "make a deal" with someone on releasing out of print stuff, find the owner of the defunct Bee Hive label ("Stereo" Jack Woker knows how to contact him). They have a wild baritone sax battle between Nick Brignola and Pepper Adams that is well worth hearing. I've been told that they also have an outstanding session with Johnny Hartman.

Later,
Kevin

I have some unreleased Art Pepper/Pepper Adams/Snuff Smith that people have gotten nosey about.

Another killer Vanguard line-up. So what else is new? I hope James Williams is on that Thornton gig since I've never seen him tinkle the ivory at this venerable establishment. The one that tops my list is Stefon Harris.

Eric Reed is there this week and Tom Harrell next week follwed by:

SEPTEMBER

September 7th - September 12th
Clark Terry-trum., David Glasser-a.sax, Don Friedman-p, Marcus McLaurine-b
Sylvia Cuenca-d

September 14th - September 26
Tommy Flanagan-p, Peter Washington-b, Lewis Nash-d

September 28 - October 3rd
Cyrus Chestnut-p, Kengo Nakamura-b, Neal Smith-d

Coming in OCTOBER

RUSSELL MALONE QUARTET (Oct 5-10)
TERI THORNTON (Oct 12-17)
STEFON HARRIS (Oct19-24)
GERI ALLEN TRIO (Oct 26-31)

Solo am I flying dolo for the Hill set?

So far as I know Josh.... gotta catch a plane for LA. But the good news is that I'll be back in time for the C.Parker hang on Sun! See u there!

Cool HP. I think I'll get there early and reserve a nice space for us.

Josh, If you can, save me a seat too please. I'll be there about 6:45. Thanks.
Ryan

I should be pretty close to the stage. So far it's just you and me Ryan.

Reynolds if you're going, let me know here. I won't see my home email until after the set.

I'm still considering, Josh. Until what time will you be reachable via the board?

A little before 5. I guess another 45 minutes or so. You should come out Pete. I'm sure the gig will be better then the upstate one.

I think I'll make it. I'll look for you.

I'll be up front. I'll hold a seat for you and Ryan.

Boy yesterday's posts made for real interesting reading. Talk about a "self-absorbed poster." Haven't you folks ever heard of a telephone or a private e-mail? You really think people want to read about how many chairs Josh is saving at one of those "free" gigs he attends.

In any event I hope Jazzy Mary comes back so I can engage in some intelligent discourse for a change. This one's for you JM. I did hit Eric Reed last night at my beloved VV and I must say it was a big disappointment. I don't think I've ever seen a show that was more disorganized and I've never seen the VV's bandstand configured the way it was.

I was surprised to see that ER was playing with a septet when his new Manhattan Melodies CD on Verve is essentially in the classic trio format. He started the gig in the classic trio format and played two or three tunes from the new CD, a real nice take on a Paul Simon song (I bet no one has ever played a PS song that way before) and a medley of Duke/Strayhorn tunes and then he called the four horn players up, Vincent Herring who did triple duty on alto, soprano & tenor; Victor Goines on alto & clarinet; Marcus Printup on trumpet; & Wycliffe Gordon on 'bone. They didn't really have their shit together. ER announced they were playing "new" tunes that weren't on the CD.

Then he went back to the trio format or and everyone left the stage. He played a tune where he didn't announce the title, but said everyone would know what it was. Of course, I didn't. I think it was New York, New York, which he completely rearranged. He then did a Monk tune solo and something else before calling the horns back to do a Wycliff Gordon original and a W.C. Handy tune.

It just seemed a disorganized concert. Maybe by the end of the week they'll get their act together. ER should go from solo to trio to septet or go from septet to trio to solo and not mix it up like he did.

Eric, whose playing was exceptional as always, had 20-year-old Rodney Green on drums and a bassist from Tel Aviv Barak Mori (sic). It was nice to see so many members from either Wynton's band and/or the LCJO on the stage. Kind of whets my appetite for Sept. 17 when the LCJO kicks off its '99-'00 year. It was nice to see ER give young cats like the bass player and Green gigs. First Wynton learned his craft from Bu; Wynton hired (and continues to hire) young cats like ER who now are out on their own and in turn giving young cats a chance to learn.

They had the horns perpendicular to the stage where the piano usually is; the piano was over near the post and the drums were in the corner behind the piano. It was funny because 'Tain Watts & Billy Higgins come walking in and sit on the banquettes near the piano. I wonder how Mr. Green felt having those two masters of the drum kit look over his shoulder. It was nice to see Green use the brushes too. I guess with BH in the house he almost had to.

And I guess Marcus Printup is no longer a "Blue Note" recording artist. Gordon has a new CD comin' out on September 17. Lots of cognoscenti in the venue last night including Mary Ann Topper, who I believe is Eric's manager and Richard Seidel, an A&R guy at Verve who should write a book on political survival skills since he survived at the combined Impulse/Verve and was on the acquiree side of the house.

Lorraine also stepped on my foot but was very apologetic.

Hardbop, I'm glad you had an exciting yet thoughtful physical encounter with Lorraine. Perhaps next time Josh can save some seats for the two of you--I see a promising sado-masochistic pedal relationship brewing.

Yeah but my 1 line posts seem to read a bit quicker then your epic monologues. Give me a break hardbop. It's your loss if you don't want to check out a great free jazz concert. If your so interested in "intellegent discourse" with jazzmary, why don't abandon this thread and take it somewhere else.

You guys better settle down!! I go away for a day and you guys CAN NOT behave! HB, I'm kindof freaked about the Eric Reed gig. I'm seeing him on Thursday. I hope he has it together. Was Vincent playing w/ him? I'm wondering because of his,out patient, stomach surgery. Surely, blowing like a son of a gun can't be good.

Mary Ann Topper isn't Eric's manager, Karen Kennedy is (or was?). Is anyone doing any of the Jazz Standard stuff? I may go tonight.

In re: the Tom Harrell gig at the VV next week, that's going to be something else as Xavier Davis is on piano and Carl Alllen on drums!

<<These is a lot of trash on these threads. It seems certain folks must post even when they have nothing to contribute. >>

A quote from the board's owner, Lois, on the Cliques, Crap & Clutter thread.

Oops, sorry HB--in rereading your post, I seee that Vincent was there. How did he seem? Was the joint crowded? I'm wondering how early I neeed to get there on Thurs. Did they turn the house over?

Good to have you back Jazzy Mary. Vincent is essentially wasted. The whole horn section should be scrapped and ER should do trio & solo stuff it didn't work. Vincent barely solos and on one cut he sat down while Gordon, Goines & Printup all played.

That is nice to hear that Xavier Davis is on piano. I was at Sweet Basil a few years ago and Davis was either on piano for Carl's gig or he was in the audience and Carl introduced him as Xavier Davis who, when he not getting beat up on the bandstand by Betty Carter, is here with us tonight. Xavier was on that New Jazz Composer's gig that I caught a couple of Monday nights ago at the Blue Note.

I think I may add Tom's Vanguard gig to my dancecard as well, though he lays out so much on his gigs so I am reluctant to see him. I've never seen Tom at the VV, though, only at the late, great Visiones.

And Sharp9 I almost forgot but I was catching up with my Village Voice last night and I hope you caught the nice plug the Voice jazz writer gave you in the Choices section. He likened your label to the "old Blue Note" and old "Soul Note" labels in that your label has a distinctive sound. It was a preface to the review of that killer One for All Band that has laid down a few sides for your label.

And in that same issue of the Voice I noticed the Dharma ad said "last week" and I didn't see an ad for that venue in this week's Voice. I wonder if they closed/stopped their jazz policy? No big deal. I wasn't a big fan of that Orchard Street venue.

We keep missing each other Jazzy Mary. I got there about 9:29, but had made a reservation and they did give me a good seat even though it was pretty crowded. Just make a reservation. That is the best way to assure that you'll get a good seat. I assume I could have stayed for the 2nd set if I so chosen, but I am not that much of a night owl so I opted for the subway rather than hanging for the 2nd set. Last night one set was enough. Hopefully, for your sake, Eric & Co. will get its act together by Thursday. Usually during the week you can stay through at the Vanguard. Not too many stay for that 11:30 set on the weeknights.

There was fairly large crowd at the Vanguard.

<<<<These is a lot of trash on these threads. It seems certain folks must post even when they have nothing to contribute.>>

Yeah if you took this advice we wouldn't see you posting *at all*.

Jazzymary,
If you read this thread carefully today, you'll see that Heaney started up with me without provacation. I don't see how making plans to hold some seats shouldn't be done here. Heaney just has something against free jazz concerts. Just another *rediculous* quark of his.

Josh, I know, HB did start this one. HB, go to your room!! I didn't think there was anything wrong w/ teh "holding seats" thing. Actually I was sortof relieved because I was able to scroll quickly through it. Both of you do have to "straighten up and fly right". If you recall, James Harrigan appointed me the mediator of this thread so it "behooves" me to keep you cats in line.

A little spanking in addition to foot crushing can only help to enliven the thread.

Hardbop:

Yeah, you're the second person to hip me to that nice comment. Being a suburbanite, I don't usually read the Voice (it still costs money outside NYC and it seems weird to pay for something that is free across the river).

Well, I guess it just means that SOMEBODY over at the Voice knows what time it is!

Just kidding.

Here it is Sharp9 in case you missed it:

"Blue Note had a sound, Black Saint had a sound -- Sharp Nine's shooting for one, too. The indie label's principals -- Eric Alexander, Jim Rotondi, Steve Davis, David Hazeltine, Peter Washington and Joe Farnsworth -- adore hard bop and deftly mess with its fundamentals. Swing will be front and center as they unite just to see what kind of family matters need to be discussed. (Macnie)

I guess that's why I own or soon plan to own all of the Sharp9 label's releases.

Hardbop:

That's music to MY ears!

Josh, sorry I missed the Hill show. I got held up at work.

How was the show?

I liked it a good deal more then Pete. They played at least two tunes from the Birdland set. Again Ehrlich stole the show. He really gets inside of Hills compositions and works them inside out. Horton also was quite good. I still think that Tardy is out of place in that band but he did display a very warm tone that I enjoyed. And Colley and Drummand keep everything very tight, although Drummand didn't get a chance to solo like he did when I saw them last.

Any news on a possible release of Birdland recording?

I find Hill's music humorless.

Hey Jazzy Mary your Palmetto pals are gigging at HMV on Thursday at 6 (34th & Sixth). They don't say who'll be there, but I assume Mr. Frahm, Mr. Wilson & Mr. Berkman will be in attendance. Let's hope people are mature enough so we don't have 15 posts where we read about who is saving seats for who.

Reading the Voice is dangerous 'cause I keep finding more gigs. I also found the name of Eric Reed's bass player, Barak Mori. He was new to me, but he played pretty well last night.

And, if I can indulge in a bit of long-range planning, Chico Freeman & his Guataca Band gig at SOBs on 9/23. Some cats on this board were wondering what ever to Chico, well if you read this post now you'll know.

Two more cats I've never seen gig at SOBs in September/October who I've never seen: Cachao, who was featured in the Buena Vista Social Club, on 9/29 & 9/30 and Celia Cruz on 10/6 & 10/7.

Cachao is not in Buena Vista Social Club--it's his nephew Cachaito (a great bass player nonetheless). And last time I looked, Celia Cruz was not a cat.

Yo I gots to get those tickets. Will send my moms over to inquire soon. She's a big fan of the music.

Josh--are you referring to the Ibrahim Ferer/Ruben Gonzalez shows at the Beacon?

I had mentioned to Josh that these guys from Buena Vista Social Club Incorporated have a gig at the Beacon in October that has been sold out since about 2 minutes after they went on sale, but they added 2 more shows in February, and tickets are going quick. I'm going to catch them in October in Toronto. My friends there were able to get 3rd row center, and it's my big chance to see a show at the legendary Massey Hall.

Oh I thought you said Symphony Space. Is is the Beacon? And are tickets on sale over there right now? If so I'll pick them up myself after work.

So Cachao/Cachaito is not the same person? If Cachaito is Cachao's nephew then how old is Cachao? About 90?

And isn't Celia Cruz old-old too? Like Betty Carter, she's found the fountain of youth.

Last I heard, Betty Carter was dead. Some fountain of youth.

Cachaito is probably in his 60s and Cachao is probably in his 80s. If I remember correctly, Cachao is Israel Lopez, and Cachaito is the son of his brother Orestes. Cachao is a legend for two things--adding the mambo middle section to the Cuban danzon and for his famous descargas (Cuban jam sessions).

Celia Cruz still has IT. Another great female vocalist who stayed in Cuba, and is considered by many to be Celia's peer is Celina Gonzalez. Her biggest hit was Santa Barbara (Que Viva Chango), which appears on David Byrne's Dancing with the Enemy compilation.

Josh--bear in mind that the Beacon only accepts cash at the box office.

Thanks for the tip. Also have to score some tickets for Gilberto Gil at Irving Plaza in early Sep. Good gigs abound.

I think I meant "Benny" Carter. Got my ts and my ns crossed I guess.

Well, I hope y'all are a lot drier than I am. I don't think I've ever seen it rain this hard for this long. It is raining cats and dogs and not Celia Cruz'.

Speaking of Celia Cruz, the AMG lists her age at "only" 74, but for some reason I thought she was like 74 when Castro took over.

Enought of that, Jazzy Mary to get a different spin on Eric Reed's Vanguard gig check out this a.m.'s Times as Ratliff very favorably reviews his septet. I must point out he did go to the 2nd show on Tuesday and I caught numero uno so maybe they got their act together or one of us was wrong. It looked like he pulled a "double-header" as he also reviewed Baden Powell's show at the Blue Note on Tuesday as well.

Meanwhile, what I really wanted to write about, was the gig I attended last night, Monty Alexander in the classic trio format up at the Iridium. Not a bad set; not Johnny Walker Blue Label material maybe, but not bad. Alexander, from Jamaica originally, did a lot of stuff from his new Telarc Album which is a tribute to Bob Marley. I wasn't going to buy that one, but after hearing Monty gig last night it is now on my want to buy list.

It is funny because Tuesday night Eric Reed did a Neil Simon tune and last night Monty covered "I Shot the Sheriff" which I haven't heard since my rock 'n roll days back in the 70s when Eric Clapton covered it.

Reed also covered a signature Sinatra tune (New York, New York I think) and Monty played a solo rendition of Young at Heart. He also sang in his Jamaican patois and played I believe a recorder, which you blow into and it has keys like a keyboard on a piano. He set a nice groove. He also played a "Mento" (sic) tune or two, which is music indigenous to Jamaica.

His trio mates were Troy Davis on drums and Hasaan Shinook (sic) aka J.J. Wiggins (sic) who is new to me.

The Iridium was pretty full, which is nice to see on a weeknight and just a couple of annoying things. They have this blower or air conditioning unit that turns on at periodic intervals and it is noisy and annoying. And I wish someone would pass a law or tell bartenders to please wait until a set is over before they wash the glasses.

And I am happy to report, no one stepped on my foot.

re: fountain of youth issue: BC did find the ultimate way to not get any older

Liked the Hill show a lot myself... the band was a bit tighter than when I saw them at Birdland, and Hill himself looked (and played) a lot healthier. Tardy has improved a bit to my ears, but, yes, Ehrlich is still very much the man here. I think they should record this band now, as they really seem to be getting it together and really dealing with Hill's knotty compositions. Just wish they'd have gotten to that last tune...

I wonder if Herbie will play tonight or if he'll be rained out.

Hope so too... have they finished City Hall Park yet?? When I was down there 2 weeks ago it sure didn't look very hopeful.

When I was down there two days ago City Hall Park didn't look too hopeful!

Yeah what's the deal with that? I'm sure last night's rain didn't help either. Getting to work today was fun wasn't it?

Hey Laurie what up girl?

I don't get it-we are in drought mode for a month-it rains once-and the whole state of jersey floods.

and the shipping dock here at work is completely flooded.

someone please explain this to me-as I don't get it

Anybody go to Birdland last night for the BGO marathon. I got there about midnight and hung till the end...I really liked what Dave Burrell was doing, saw Braden and Hilton Ruiz's group. They took all the ex BGOers outside for photos - me, Al Pryor, Steve Robinson (fundraiser), Jim Luce, Duke Markos (sound guy), Judith King...it was really nice. Sorry I missed Renee Rosnes...

Whatever happened to Gordon? I wonder if he made it to NY after all. Haven't heard at all from the guy.

Hey, Josh & everyone. Sorry I haven't been posting. I've been lurking when I can. Work... ick! It's good to be back. I hope I'll be around more often now.

Can't make it to the Parker festival this year. Haven't been singing enough lately, so I'm going to a jam session instead. It will be good for my psyche.

What's up, Laurie!!! You can make the Festival too. Just show up at the Needle early, sing and get downtown asap.

Sounds like a plan.

Whups, Heaney may be upset we're wasting space making plans.

I saw the Hill show myself. I wish I knew what you cats are talking about when you say someone 'stole the show'. It's a group music with a group dynamic. Everyone contributed in their own hip way. I dug the two bass clarinet thing, among other highlights. But the writing is so uncliched and Hill's 'comping' is so organic, enigmatic- it is a very happening group. The rhythm section- Drummond/Colley- is beautiful, so natural.

Guess I got out of NYC just in time to miss the rain.

Steve,
You're telling me Tardy is as impressive as Ehrlich?

Just found out who's playing with Herbie if the weather holds. Craig Handy on sax, Kenny Davis on bass, and Gene Jackson on the drums. I saw this quartet at Washington Sq. Park a few years back. The acoustics were a mess as the piano wasn't miced for the first half of the show.

Just to let you all know that I am not only praying for rain today, but praying that it pours on Sunday. I hope it comes down in buckets about 4:59 p.m. today similar to the way it did this a.m.

... and the reason you want it to pour on a Jazz crowd?? I would think that any group of people gathered for a Jazz show is a good thing! I really don't see how it could be bad. Why the sour grapes, hardbop?

As for Sunday, it looks like I'll be a Bradley Airport in CT picking up my mother-in-law! Quite a contrast: pick up mother-in-law or got to the Charlie Parker Festival. Bet you can guess which one *I* wanted! :>)

Later,
Kevin

I could probably make it to the lower east side aournd 3:30 or 4:00. Would you guys save me a place if I promised to bring libations? It sure would be great to see you all.

Just make sure you keep those libations well-hidden, Laurie. NYC's finest will bust you if you don't.

Really? no alchohol in Tompkins Square Park?

Josh, the birdland record should be out in March or April. Not sure what label yet, we're still weighing the options.

Don't worry James, what Laurie won't tell you is that she doesn't drink alcoholic beverages. As for the rest of us and especially Josh Heisler, well...

Trying to save a place at a free concert in NYC after the music starts often leads to violence.

I can't wait for that Birdland Hill disc! Ehrlich was on fire that night. I hope that tune where he pulled out the bass clarinet makes it onto the CD.

Later,
Kevin

Who's on for Tompkins Square on Sunday? I had talked to Josh and Adrienne about trying to organize a pre-concert brunch in the neighborhood. It would be cruel to ask Josh to save a load of seats on his own--he might be dead by the time we got there. Maybe we can get my usual row in the semi-shade, behind Stubblefield (I seem to sit behind him every year).

Well, I'm back today with all sorts of things to report. I saw Eric Reed last night and I thought it was great. Eric is technically great and has a lot of spirit. I found the set (1 hr. and 20 minutes!)to be put together quite well, it was very well organized and everyone played really well--particularly Marcus Printup's great solo on "In a Mellow Tone" and much of Wycliffe Gordon's work. So, I had a good time.

Now HB, here is a story you, in particular, will like but anyone who digs Anthony Wonsey will enjoy it too. The other night I was taking the time to really listen to his "The Exodus" cd. I turned off the lights (a friend hipped me to this---I very rarely "just" listen to music; I'm always doing something else while listening)and really listened. Well, I was so moved and excited by Anthony's incredibly beautiful playing on "I Didn't Know What Time it Was" I thought I'm going to call him right up and tell him how much I love it!! So, I did. I must admit,jazz fan that I am, I feel a certain thrill that I am able to call a great artist like Anthony up and just "shoot the breeze" with him but we are friends...so why not? Anyway, it as around 12:30 a.m. our time and he was in L.A. just getting ready to go on at Catalina's w/ Russell Malone. I hope our L.A. jazz friends caught them. Anthony told me that they had been reading my postings (Yikes, oh well... Anthony knows I think he's the greatest!) and I told him how beautiful I thought "I Didn't Know What Time it Was" is. He wondered how I had found a copy of the CD. He confirmed that he didn't have it in CD format and I told him about you, HB, and that I had told you that you should give it to him in exchange for all the joy he's given you. He'll be back around Sept. 1 so when I see him I'll give it to him. It was a very nice, sweet exchange. He really is such a sweet guy. Nice story, huh?

Well Jazzy Mary that is a double-dose of good news re. the fact that Eric Reed got his act together & Anthony Wonsey will put the CD to good use.

I was thinking about AW just last night as I walked past Symphony Space on my way to Smoke and recalled that after one of the JVC concerts I attended at SS I raced down to the Savoy to check out Sharp9 recording artist Mike DiRubbio and was delighted and surprised to see AW at the piano.

All your Palmetto Jazz pals were down (or I should say 'up') at Smoke last night -- both David Berkman and an unexpected guest appearance by Joel Frahm. Berkman was supposed to have a quartet with Sammy "The Straighthorn" Newsome on soprano but Frahm, who had his soprano axe w/ him, played tenor all night. I enjoyed Berkman a lot more than I thought I would and it was nice to see Sammy again. I don't think I've heard him play since he was in Terence Blanchard's outfit. Ugonna Ukegwo, who seems to be Smoke's "house bassist" was on the gig, as was drummer Rick Motalbano who was on Frahm's gig when he played up there a couple of weeks ago.

I had a close encounter of the worst kind as Berkman had his keyboard with him, but he tucked it under the piano for the first set. I breathed a huge sigh of relief when I saw him do that. Acoustic jazz only for me.

The place, as it always seems to be was packed and very, very smokey. It makes you appreciate a smoke free environment like the vaunted Vanguard all the more.

And Jazzy Mary, I've got some more news that you should be able to put to good use given your propensity for hard swing, but there is going to be an 80th B-Day Bash/concert for Bu up at City College on Oct. 11. So circle your calendar. I'll be camped out in a tent on the sidewalk waiting for tickets for that one.

And Jazzy Mary also circle Sept. 16-18 on your calendar as one of your faves -- Jack Walrath -- and one of mine -- Bobby Watson -- lock horns up at Birdland as part of the Jazz Tribe band that also includes Ronnie Mathews, Victor Lewis, Curtis Lundy & Ray Mantilla. Sources tell me that the upcoming Jazz Tribe CD on Red Records (available in January) is an absolute killer.

HB, The September thing at Birdland sounds great. I'm a big Bobby Watson, Ronnie Mathews, Curtis Lundy and Victor Lewis (I love Victor!) fan. So that gig is not to be missed.

Now People, this weekend--Don't forget tonight and tomorrow the swingin' Billy Kaye w/ a killer band at the "Up Over". That's where I'll be tonight. Also at Caviateria the great bassist Hill Greene will be w/ Barry Astchul (?--I don't know how to spell his name). I will be there tomorrow and I'm eager to check that joint out.

Also, Friday, Sat. and Sun. at the "Old Office" at the Knitting FActory Matt Wilson will be there w/ his quartet w/ my sweetie Joel Frahm. Matt is great and his quartet is also fun. They'll most likely be promoting Matt's new Palmetto CD "Smile". That's an early gig so I may do a "double header" and do them first on Saturday and then head to Caviateria. The "Old Office" is cheap too.

Now, Sunday I'm probably going to catch at least some of the Charlie Parker festival festivities. But I don't know when I'll be there. What time does that start? Should I try to hook up w/ any of you? Believe it or not, this will be the first time I've attended.

HB, I don't understand why you say weird stuff like "I hope it pours" on the Charlie Parker festival. Jazzy Mary wishes you wouldn't do that---we jazz fans, kindred spirits, must stick together!

Re: the Parker Fest -- I'm still unsure. What time does it start? (I don't want to incite any riots showing up late). Where will you guys be?

Sounds like it's going to be Pete, Josh & Adrienne. Anyone else?

2-7pm. I'm not sure what the deal is. I may end up sitting furthur back then Pete would like to accomodate some of my friends. Another words I may end up on the grass. But Pete and I will work something out people then. We'll try to hold some seats but I can't make any promises. It can be a tough crowd.

Laurie
Where have you been? I've missed your posts.
Send me an e-mail. Thanks /Roger

Last year I got to the Parker Festival mid-afternoon. There was NO WAY I could have gotten on the grass. I couldn't even stand anywhere without people getting angry (justifiably) that I was in their way. So, I just had to keep moving on the pathways. I decided then that if I couldn't get there early and save a patch of earth for myself that I wouldn't go at all.

I'll play it by ear. If I get out of the Needle in time, I head down there. If I can find anyone maybe I'll be able to squeeze in. But I'm not going to sweat it. I can see you all at the next hang.

I might show, but I like to come and go unnoticed, since guys are always picking fights with me at jazz concerts.

It's scary out there.

thelil,
In all seriousness, give me an email if you plan to show. It's always nice to have a "thelil sighting".

Why would anybody want to pick a fight with a fuckin' saint?

Oh, and hi, Roger. I'll e-mail you tomorrow from home.

Wow, couldn't believe it when I went to JC this morning and didn't see this thread on the first page -- how did this manage to fall out of the top 30?!? Post-Charlie Parker Festival hangover??

I'm flying in for a meeting on Wednesday and have one night to catch some live music. Any suggestions? Tom Harrell seems to be at the Vanguard every damn time I'm in town.

I really would have like to made it. But I had plans Saturday night, so I woulda had to do a "there and back" on Sunday. And it was just too nice a day to spend 7 hours in the car. Especially since I'm making the trip later this week for the US Open Tennis. Yeh heh!

LET'S HEAR REPORTS/REVIEWS!

twisted--unfortunately, Bley/Peacock/Motian don't start at Birdland until Thursday.

Well Steve Lacy/Danilo Perez was the highlight for me. I never heard Perez sound so good. He was full of ideas, clearly Lacy brought out the best in him. The other sets were nice but sometimes the problem with the Parker fest is people get bogged down in playing his music, or just play too straight for my tastes. Did anyone else think Etta Jones was out done by her sister in law?

thelil,
I think you would have been intriqued by the last set. Jackie Mac (your favorite :0) and Gary Bartz at the same time.

And I'm sorry I missed you guys. I ended up sleeping real late and sitting near the grassy section.

Josh, I agree about Perez being the highlight of the show--startlingly good. His solo ruminations reminded me a bit of Chick Corea's solo work of the late-'60's/early-'70's. But a bunch of people sitting around me couldn't get into the Lacy/Perez set. They reminded me of our resident chair-arm thumper. I thought all of the straight ahead sets were pretty good. Della Griffin was fun, but I'm not sure she outdid Etta. Fred Hersh was at his most low-key--a bit too low key, but a fine piano player. Stefon Harris' feature with Bey on Now's the Time was hot. It was nice to see Dr. Jackle--last time I caught him live was 1975 at the Five Spot. But I would have loved to see him reunited with Roy Haynes.

Hey everybody.....Adrienne, Chris, Josh, Laurie and eveybody else....How r you all doing???

(BTW Jazz IS still alive in Big D, believe it or not!!! I guess I'll have to post some stuff on the thread regarding the Jazz scene in other places..huh?)

I've been telling folks for a few years now that Danilo was much better than his sadly over-produced records made him sound, so I'm happy to be a bit vindicated. I'm in agreement with those here that the Lacy/Perez set,and especially Danilo's playing, was easily the highlight of the day, even with the Jackie Mac/Bartz showdown (with experience making good yet again). I give the organizers some credit for letting Lacy/Perez play a whole set of adventurous music that was inevitably going to lose a few of the non-jazz folks in the audience. Nice to see Roy Haynes still killing the tubs too...

I didn't know Bartz was playing with Jackie Mac.

I would have been interested to see how I felt about Jackie in a live setting, especially with Gary Bartz. FWIW, Gary is probably my favorite alto player at the moment.

thelil, IWVVM as you are a FS.

all others: looking foward to hear that Perez/Lacy duo on Thursday

Excuse me, Al in NYC, but you are quite mistaken. Your remark <lose a few of the non-jazz folks in the audience> is patently incorrect. One can be a thorough Jazzer and NOT care a whit for open-ended note-playing without a beginning or an end. If you think EVERYONE who loves (and who plays) Jazz likes that type of music, or that anyone who does NOT care for it is a "non-Jazz folk" you are as wrong as two left shoes.

It is also possible to enjoy avant-garde music and not care for the stuff Lacy played yesterday.

as for Danilo, if he hadn't been on the set, I'd have left and missed some of the best Jazz of the afternoon. My favorites were Cedar, Etta, Andy, Gary.

Biggest gripe -- Diarrhea-mouth Schaap! doesn't know when to stop!

<open-ended note-playing without a beginning or an end>
Ummm... are you sure we were at the same concert HP?? What I heard was a whole lot of improvisation on a whole lot of ideas utilizing many different structures and motifs, often within the same number... and improvisation is the very essence of jazz, isn't it??...

A whole lot more adventurous and spontaneous than anything Etta Jones did... maybe I'm missing something, but I've never really understood her following... she always sounds like a rather washed-out version of old Dinah Washington records to me.

Oh, and I think Jackie pretty much bested Gary, as he would against almost anybody who picked up an alto and stood on stage with him... Left Gary playing hot, pretty, but basically rote hard bop licks while he flew.

al & hp - well, that's what makes horse races. Preferences and preferences.

Hey you New Yorkers, my wife, Lynne, will be in your wonderful city (and her Home - she was born and raised in Manhattan) from Friday September 24th through Monday the 27th. Wo what is happening on those days? She is going back for the Mabel Mercer convention at Town Hall, which is opening on Monday the 27th. But she is available and anxious to dig some jazz on Friday, the 24th through Sunday the 26th. She likes straight-ahead jazz, vocalists who pay attention to lyrics, melodic piano, tenor saxes, but not too much "out" material. Thanks for any help. /Roger

<and improvisation is the very essence of jazz> indeed it is, Al, but clearly our ears hear things very differently. Where you heard Lacy playing <whole lot of improvisation on a whole lot of ideas utilizing many different structures and motifs>, I heard a lot of notes that did not seem to stem FROM anything I had heard him play earlier.

I also do not care for art like that done by Jackson Pollack. Doesn't mean he isn't good... just that I don't care for it!

Pete,
I too thought Danilo's playing resembled Corea circa late 60's early 70's. Speaking of which I should be heading out soon to catch him.

Al,
Neither McLean nor Bartz terrible impressed me yesterday. I've always been a big fan of both but I think their choice of material left something to be desired. There was no fire in it. But of the two I would have to say Bartz sounded better to my ears. I'm not sure about McLean but I think he may be losing his chops. Either that or yesterday he was just off.

But I have to agree with you on Etta Jones. I think I've talked to Pete and some others about this before. But what's the big deal? Man she's a bore. Couldn't get any straighter. Yet everybody seemed to love her yesterday.

thelil,
Nobody knew Bartz would be there. It was a surprise appearence. I think I recall you saying you like him alot. And knowing your feelings for Jackie Mac, I thought about the irony in the pairing.:) Too bad you missed it.

It's odd to hear the music of a meticulous formalist like Lacy being described as open ended without a beginning or end. That might better describe the way a lot of "straight ahead" players simply blow on changes without any attention to form.

It was also nice to hear a bunch of Lacy's compositions that are not in his current trio repertoire.

Well, Jackson Pollack's work in his greatest (admittedly rather brief) period around '49-'50 is some of of my favorite art of the post-war era... so I guess we really do disagree here HP. I would have agreed with Pete in thinking of Lacy as a formalist... in fact, if I have any complaints about his playing that's it... a bit too stiff analytical and composed at times.

As for Jackie Mac, well his chops certainly aren't what they were in the '60's (but then whose are??) but I still love the way he attacks and really digs into a tune and sort of eviscerates its insides... pulling them out for all to hear. Doesn't always work, but I sure like to hear him take the chance. Though I will certainly grant that it's damn hard to dig something new out of yet another straight playing of a Bird tune (Although I don't mind that in this case -- after all it IS the Bird festival).

I love Hitchcock.

Did anyone here see Chick and Regina yesterday?? I couldn't go (4 is way too early!!)... how was it??

I saw Chick. Could only stay for the first two tunes and a half. Nice set. Chick definately benifits from his association with Avishai Cohen. The material and makeup of the band is almost the same as Cohen's band before he met Chick. The new member of the front line, his name escapes me now, played a very good solo during the second tune. It was on a sopranino and he sounded like a snake charmer.

But the best jazz was yet to come. I ended up at Smoke/Augies last night. Got there a little late expecting the band to just be going on. I had been there on a Friday night a few weeks back and the place was empty for the first set while starting late. Much to my surprise the club was packed! And the music had already started. Jacky Terrasson is easily my favorite pianist on the scene today. Last night he was in fine form. But I learned a few things about the Terrasson trio last night. It started out as the Leon Parker trio but obviously it changed names when Terrasson got all the press. Eventually Parker left the group, I wonder if he and Jacky had a falling out. Anyway last night was the first time they played together in quite a while. The occasion was Ugonna Okewo who is hosting these Monday night jam sessions for the next 5 weeks.

After a typically satisfying first set the trio came back for the jam. Now this is what fascinated me. I've seen jam sessions many times before but never have I seen what happened last night. Some musicians who were clearly in a different class got up and had to play with one of the best and most recognized trio's in NY. The first sax player clearly was intimidated. I would have been scared #@%$ if it were me. But it was fun to watch them try and hang with these guys. I was sitting right on top of Leon Parker. He is a pleasure to watch.:)

Leon Parker is an amazing percussionist--he can even play with Josh sitting on top of him.

He didn't seem to mind.:)

Jacky Terrasson and Leon Parker?? Damn, I wish they would advertise (but then again, if the club's already packed, why spend the $$??). Now that my association with Columbia U. appears to be at an end I won't be walking by there every couple of days to check out who's coming in... guess I'm going to have to learn how to use that @#!$ telephone thing.

All very interesting but anyone gonna respond to my request (#207) to find my lovely wife a hang for the weekend of Sept 25-26?
Come on hp and Chris and Al and all you NYC cats & kittens. Thanks.

Roger--it's a little early to know the schedules for that weekend.

Yeah Roger, check back in a few weeks.

Speaking of Columbia U., rumor has it that we're setting up a 20yr. reunion of the Cecil Taylor and Max Roach concert at McMillan theatre in '79. Supposedly, both are very interested. Now its just $$ negotiations. Keep those fingers crossed...

peace,
Ejike

While I was in a posting mood, I might as well ask whether anybody checks out Roy Campbell or William Parker and all their good stuff. I can't recall ever seeing them mentioned. I think that the Other Dimensions in Music outfit is blazing, although I guess many aren't into that sort of stuff.
I've been in California for August (fly back East tonight) so I missed Roy's month of Fridays at The Knitting Factory. Did anybody catch any of that? I'd love to know what heads thought.

ejike

I walked by Roy on Sunday near the Charlie Parker fest. Leaned over to my friend and said, "there goes a great trumpet player". I've seen the Pyramid Trio in recent months. Almost saw Other Dimentions but they were starting a good hour later then I had anticipated and I didn't want to wait that long.

Put it this way, I'm a big fan of the William Parker and Roy Campbell.

I could make myself available to show your wife a good time.

That's a scary thought.

Roger: The 26th is closing night for the Tommy Flanagan Trio at the Vanguard with Peter Washington and Lewis Nash.

Steve
You may be a "saint" as you advertise, but that infamous modifier in front of the word "Saint" bothers me a little. I'll take care of "those" matters.
Hey, but thanks for the offer, man.

As Pete noted, tis a little early to plan for the last weekend of Sept. But thanks for the info so far. Tommy Flanagan at the Vanguard sounds perfect. Lynne loves TF and that is a mighty lovely trio. Thanks Valerie.(Took an Angeleno to tell me what's happening in the Big Apple?)

Hey songscout, I'll be happy to hip you to everything as soon as I get a chance. Right now I'm exhausted from doing so much this weekend!! I'll give a full report soon.

Roger ~ Your wife is coming into town without you? Surely you could find a way to accompany her. If she's up for a mixed bag of singers, have her come to the Sunday brunch singer's jam at Cleopatra's Needle. I'm usually there.

Yep - a solo trip to NYC for Lynne this time. Just a quick 3-4 days to visit her roots and to take in the Cabaret Convention.

Thanks to all of you who sent e-mails. I will soon respond to you individually.

Laurie - the Singer's Jam sound like a lot of fun. Lynne is a excellent amateur singer and might be coaxed to sit in. She has a lovely quality, sings in tune and knows most of the standards AND her keys.

Well I like the scene at Smalls so I'd recommend that your wife stop in there. It's only 10 dollars and usually you can see some quality music. Tuedays tend to be good. Also Smoke has jam sessions on Monday for the next 5 weeks hosted by Ukonna Okegwo and usually a very capable pianist. Next week it's Bruce Barth and a few days ago it was Jacky Terrasson. That is a real nice scene. People were very into the music and the bartender/owner even waited to use the cash register when people clapped to keep from disturbing the performance. Now that's cool!

I hate it when they disturb my clapping with ringing cash registers.

Hey Cherches is becoming a regular thelil.

Did someone hurt, our boy ,Hardbop's feelings-I miss his vibe!

"Cherches is becoming a regular thelil?
Well, he has the right name to be a "Saint" (i.e., "Cherches).
Let's see if thelil is the "fuckin' saint" maybe Pete could be the "Fornicating Friar"

I used to be a cantankerous cantor.

Last I heard from Heaney, he was praying for rain at NY's free jazz concerts this last week. Can't say I miss that kind of commentary.

Here is the schedule for MoMa's (Gasp!) Free jazz series.

September 3 The Roni Ben Hur Quartet featuring
Cecil Payne with special guest vocalist Amy London

September 10 Victor Lewis Trio

September 17 Don Braden Quartet
September 24 Michael Marcus Quartet with Strings
October 1 Francesca Tanksley Trio
October 8 James Hurt Quartet
October 15 Sam Newsome and Global Unity
October 22 Steve Kirby Quartet
October 29 Bobby Sanabria and Quarteto Aché

I'm leaving town on the 10th, but relish every chance to see VIctor Lewis. I wonder who's in his trio.

I think I'll try to check that set out. Will let you know who's playing with him.

I'm sure Heisler will be at MoMa on friday-:)

not much of a schedule compared to this past spring-although like pete, I'm interested to know who's with Victor Lewis.

I thought the jazz series was dead at MOMA -- so this is good news... now, wish they'd bring back the more adventurous programming -- was one of the few truly adventurous things at MOMA.

Reynolds,
You know me so well.

Hey Josh, Thanks for the MOMA schedule. That is good news. BTW, Franscesca Tanksley is Billy Harper's piano player and she is great.

Well, I'll have to give a somewhat abbreviated report of music I've heard lately. Last Friday I hit just the first Billy Kaye set at the "Up over". The music was good but it was a little too much for me to take emotionally as it was almost everyone who was in Leon's band plus his manager for his European tour was there.

On Saturday I finally hit Caviarteria. What a great place!! It's adjacent to the Soho Grand hotel and it's a really lovely, intimate spot but not "stuffy" or too "fancy". I saw Barry Atschul, Peter Madsen and Hill Greene. There's no cover, a $20.00 minimum (although I do not believe that is really adhered to and no one told me I had to spend that, I had read that somewhere). I know this sounds kindof funny but their caviar prices are really good!! I had a really nice dinner w/ caviar, 3 glasses of champagne, salad, and cappucino and it was NOT that expensive--I've paid more for less at other clubs. If you don't lke caviar they have lots of other stuff too. Or, just have a drink. Really, there was no pressure at all. Anyway, the music was great--Peter Madsen is new to me and he's very good. Any one know anything about him? The staff is really nice and laid back too. During the break I had a fun time talking w/ the cats and Barry had lots of interesting stories. I really hope they keep their music policy. We jazz fans should support this pleasant, jazz friendly venue.

I did hit part of the Charlie Parker fest and part of the Chick Corea thing too. Josh, Chick's soprano player is Steve Wilson-- a really good musician and nice guy.

On Monday I went to the jam session at the "Up Over". Completely swingin'!! Antonio Hart, Carlos Garnett(ridiculous), Sylvia Cuenca, Eddie Allen, Dwayne "Cook" were really swingin' it out!!

On Tuesday I caught Larry Goldings, Peter Bernstein and Bill Stewart at Iridium. Has anyone else seen this? What do you all think?

The only other thing I plan on seeing this week is Tom Harrell on Sunday at the VV.

Did HB go to Paris?

<<Chick's soprano player is Steve Wilson-- a really good musician and nice guy.>>

Yeah I knew that. But there is another guy who played both tenor, sopranino, and bass clarinet I believe. He's new, he's also white so I think he's a different guy.;)

Josh, Ya know, I wondered because I figured you would know Steve Wilson. But when you said he sounded like a snake charmer that made me think of Steve. Guess what? That white guy was new to me too and I don't know his name.

If Heaney did go to Paris, I hope he doesn't get the shit beat outta him when he starts goin' off with his New York superiority bullshit.

What did you think of him?

Thanks for the MoMA post, Josh!

JM -- Caviarteria sounds cool! any interesting folks coming there soon?

Josh, the white guy? (poor cat, from now on he'll always be "the white guy" to me). I thought he was prety good. It's VERY hard for me to judge someone's playing just from one time (unless they are some extraordinary, incredible musician like an Anthony Wonsey or a Carl Allen) and it's VERY hard for me to discern when it's an outdoor, free concert (a venue I hate, btw) because of dreadful acoustics and loud talking "regular" people hangin' aroung getting in the way of MY enjoyment. All right, so I'm a big snob!! I make no excuses when it comes to the music! I'll probably catch Origin when they come to the Blue Note soon so ask me then!

Steve, It would be VERY HARD indeed for HB or anyone else to act more superior than the French (especially the Parisians). This is coming from someone who studied French for eight years and majored in it in college. After I went to Italy, I realized I should have studied Italian. Boy, are those people beautiful (inside and out). I do like the French though, and I adore Paris!! Right now a "weekend in Paris would ease the bite of it"!

I wish I had studied Portuguese. Now there is a language I could use.

JM-well I have a very important job interview at two o'clock today with a french dude. Hope he's nuthin' like the Heinous one.

Good luck Steve.

Steve, Bonne chance!!!

Can't remember Chick's new tenor player's name,but he's from England-Catch him while you still can...

Steve
Good luck, man. (Hope the interviewer is not a Smoothie. If so, stay off certain topics.)

interview went well-but who knows?

What is Rodo dispensing travel advice now? Oy, Vey.

Boy this a real lively thread when I'm not around isn't it? I thought this place was hijacked by a bunch of morons who turned it into their personal coffee klatch. Oh, well, another attempt at a "serious discussion" of jazz.

That is bad news about Zinno. Didn't now that venue closed. And there are rumors re. Cleo's Needle. They come, they go I guess.

In any event, I hit Hilton Ruiz & his Latin Jazz Classics Band at a packed (and I mean jam-packed) Sweet Basil on Friday. They were even sitting out on the patio near Seventh Avenue South.

Hilton, as you would expect, swung his butt off. You can see why George Coleman uses him when Mabes is unavailable. And he had that Latin thang going on, where there is that little soupcon of something extra the Latin cats throw into the mix.

Ruiz was on piano, veteran Lisle Atkinson on bass, Lou Soloff, who I had never seen in a club, on trumpet, and two musicians new to me on percussion: Memo Acevedo on drums and Renato Thomas on percussion. The star of the show, though, was Antonio Hart on tenor and alto. In fact, I've never heard Antonio play better.

It was the second time in a week that I caught Hilton. He did a solo piano thang at the Jazz Gallery, a neat little place on Hudson Street right above Spring Street. Indeed, I started drooling when I saw Paul Desmond's/Bradley's Baldwin (not Steinway; thank you George Ziskind) at the venue.

The Jazz Gallery has a solo piano series continuing with cats like Marc Cary, John Hicks, and tentatively Chucho Valdes on the bill. Edsel Gomez is also on the line-up card, but I don't know who he is. A nice venue to listen to the music.

The series is in conjunction with a photo exhibit they are doing of the late Don Pullen. That alone is worth checking out. It is funny they have some album covers posted on the wall, including one of David Murray's early efforts (circa 1977) or so and there is this picture of a thinner (if not thin) Stanley Crouch on drums. I bet he wishes that one was burned.

The Jazz Gallery itself started out as a 2nd floor rehearsal space for Roy Hargrove, but has evolved into the Jazz Gallery, which is a museum and performance space. Dale Fitzgerald, who is (or was) young Roy's manager runs the place. A nice little place to hear some swing.

This week is jam packed with gigs I hope to attend, including Elvin at the Blue Note with the incomparable Carlos McKinney on piano; David Hazeltine in the classic trio format at Smoke on Thursday; a band co-lead by Jon Faddis, Slide Hampton & Little Bird this weekend at Birdland; and Jane Bunnett & Spirits of Havana at the Jazz Sandard.

I did read a batch of reviews. Ratliff yesterday or sometime this weekend reviewed a gig at the Knit. I never heard of the guy, but Eddie Allen was in the band.

He also reviewed Jason Moran's gig at the Jazz Standard, which I caught last week. And he reviewed that Charlie Parker Fest. He said Steve Lacy stunk up the joint and that Etta Jones was the star of the show. I can confirm that his opinion dovetails nicely with my own as I heard Lacy give a terrible -- i.e., non-swinging -- performance with that dreadful piano-less trio of his at the Iridium.

And I heard the marvelous Etta at the Vanguard a couple of weeks ago. She should be declared a national treature.

<<Boy this a real lively thread when I'm not around isn't it? I thought this place was hijacked by a bunch of morons who turned it into their personal coffee klatch.>>

Heaney, the only moron around here is you.

Edsel Gomez has played and recorded with David Sanchez and like Ruiz plays the latin thing at times.

Thanx, Uli. I may check it out then. I'll bring in my program so I can post the exact dates of that piano series. Seeing that piano sure brought back a lot of positive memories of Bradleys tht is for sure.

Hardbop:

Hazeltine will not be at Smoke on Thursday.

Rather, he will be at Birdland with Faddis, Steve Toure (not Slide) and Jimmy Heath Wednesday thru Saturday.

Marc Edelman

Thanks Sharp9. The Voice or somewhere had him at Smoke. I know he is gigging there on Nov. 5 in the classic trio format but I couldn't wait that long.

So Turre must have replaced Slide because my Birdland schedule has Slide down there. Not a bad sub. I hope he brings the shells.

Maybe now I can catch that Marcus Printup/Warmdaddy Anderson gig at Iridium after all since Hazeltine isn't up there.

It is amazing, multiple intelligent posters in a row on this thread. People actually interested in discussing the NYC jazz scene. Certainly a lot better than the multiple "What Up Girl" posts I had to suffer through last time I hung here.

Oh, by the way, for those of you who are interested in jazz, I think that sax/clarinet guy who gigged with Chick at that Washington Square Park gig was Bob Sheppard. At least that is who gigged with Chick's Origin outfit when they played the Blue Note last December. Sheppard played tenor sax, bass clarinet (unfortunately) and flute the night I caught Origin. Sounds like the same guy.

I would also like to add that I saw both Lacy performances at the Iridium and the Bird fest, and they were pretty bad. I usually don't like to bash people, but what the heck happened?

Well Anthony, Pete Cherches says he'll be at Carnegie Hall when they cover the Monk thang this fall and hopefully for my sake since I subscribe to the CHJB series he'll redeem himself.

HB ~ Where's the Jazz Gallery and how do I get tickets to some of the events you posted. Thanks.

Well, Lacy certainly inspires mixed reviews. At the Bird festival he was either the best or the worst thing on the bill, depending on whom you talk to.

It is at 242 Hudson above Spring on the 2nd floor. It is easy to miss believe me. I will bring in the program from Hilton Ruiz' concert and post the dates of performances tomorrow. The sets are at 8:30 and 10:00 and I would make reservations, particularly for Chucho if that gig is confirmed. The reach # is 212.242.1063.

Bob Shepperd was replaced by some English dude in Chick's band-Believe Me!