This month’s coverage demonstrates this phenomenon. On The Cover we have pianist Geri Allen, who is as emblematic of the leader-sideman as any other modern musician and appears this month as an old friend and guest with Trio 3 at Birdland. Our Interview is saxophonist Charles Davis, who may be known to different sets of readers through his own albums, extensive sideman work with people as diverse as Dinah Washington and Cecil Taylor or his long association with the Sun Ra Arkestra. And rounding out our big three is drummer Tyshawn Sorey. He curates The Stone this month and will be appearing repeatedly in both leading and support roles. And while drummer Gerry Hemingway (Megaphone) may have gotten his ‘start’ with Anthony Braxton, he has become a compelling leader in his right.
Our CD Review section is full as usual and emphasizes the above point. As you browse, notice how the musicians will be appearing throughout the city with their own and other’s projects (don’t just notice... go out and support them!). Oh, another thing musicians also do in their free time is run record labels. To that end, take a look at our feature on Generate Records (Label Spotlight), celebrating its 10th anniversary this month.
Seems like all we have these days is lots of rain or stifling heat. But that’s no excuse. That’s what umbrellas and personal fans are for. Go see some music!
We’ll see you out there...
For more information contact All About Jazz.