I highly recommend the new Thelonious Monk: The Life and Times of an American Original by Robin D.G. Kelley.  I think it’s the most in depth and scrupulously researched work so far on it’s subject. To his credit, Kelley has kept the focus on Monk’s incomparable music and art, and not, as has often been the case, the eccentricities of the man. A must read at 447 pages for anyone with an interest in this unique presence in the history of jazz. Precaution: don’t let the extensive footnotes slow you down — you can always go back to them from time to time, and they are well worth it.


Autumn

19Oct09

Listening to the most recent CD release for the John Hollenbeck Large Ensemble, Eternal Interlude. This is one of the most interesting and challenging groups of its kind working today.

Also, revisiting Michael Brecker’s Pilgrimage. What an astounding collection of amazing compositions and exceptional creative playing from all concerned, and an inspiring display of courage at the end of one’s life.



October 2-4  Jazz at Newport   Newport, Oregon

Holly and I will be in fabulous coastal Oregon for the Festival. Artists  include Jeff Clayton, Mimi Fox, Jeff Hamilton, Nicki Parrott, Chuck Redd, Tom Scott, Terell Stafford and many more.  www.jazzatnewport.com

October 5  MT. HOOD  COMMUNITY COLLEGE in Portland, Oregon with The Statesmen of Jazz, featuring  Chuck Redd, Terell Stafford, Nicki Parrott, and Mickey Roker.


NOVEMBER  8  SAN DIEGO JAZZ ALL-STARS  7 PM

I’ll be performing at the La Jolla Presbyterian Church Concert Series with the San Diego Jazz All-Stars, featuring  Holly Hofmann, Bob Magnusson, Jim Plank,and Peter Sprague .  No tickets needed, donations only.  7715 Draper Ave. La Jolla, CA 92037

NOVEMBER 28  ATHENAEUM MUSIC AND ARTS LIBRARY SERIES at the Neurosciences Institute

I’ll be playing a trio date with stellar jazz artists from New York, bassist Gregory Ryan and drummer Alvester Garnett. This is a wonderful hall for acoustic music and I’m really looking forward to this evening.

DECEMBER 11, 2009

Join me at the Radisson Culver City, with John Clayton, Jeff Hamilton and Holly Hofmann

 

www.radissonla.com/jazz.asp