Innocent When You Dream – Celebrating the Music of Tom Waits
April 29, 2010Innocent When You Dream – Celebrating the Music of Tom Waits Vocal music connects with listeners through lyrics, melodies, and arrangements. Instrumental improvisation is rare and usually serves as a device for building the energy of the song. The mystery of a magical pop or rock tune lies in the mix of lyric, melody, and…
Jensen-Macchia-Lockett-Briggs at The York 3-21-10
March 23, 2010Rizzo, Breadman, Oles – March 5, 2010 at The Blue Whale, Los Angeles
March 8, 2010At The Blue Whale in downtown Los Angeles last Friday night I was reminded of the spirit of openness and musical invention I experienced as a music student in Boston. I was quite fortunate to stumble into a very inspiring, wide open, musical community. Gary Burton’s groups included groundbreaking guitarists Mick Goodrick and Pat Metheny and featured new composers…
Rizzo, Oles, Breadman at The Blue Whale
March 4, 2010Review of the Bob Sheppard Quartet at Vitello’s, Feb 25, 2010
February 26, 2010Last night I caught Bob Sheppard’s quartet upstairs at Vitello’s in Studio City. Bob is one of the best saxophonists in Los Angeles and this was a particularly exciting band; Steve Cardenas on guitar, Jeff D’Angelo on bass, and the remarkable Steve Hass on drums. Bob is a versatile player with a beautiful, rich and…
Mike Clinco Quartet at The Oyster House
February 9, 2010I caught guitarist and composer, Mike Clinco with his quartet, at The Oyster House in North Hollywood Monday night. Mike is a fluid, melodic player with a warm, open, sound and a great relaxed feel. He has worked with many extraordinary artists including: Bo Diddley, Bobby McFerrin, Ella Fitzgerald and Henry Mancini. Mike has composed…