Biography
Rock supergroups were a common occurrence, particularly in the ’70s and ’80s, with such bloated stadium outfits as Asia and ELP offering up blockbuster hits. The jazz supergroup, however, is not quite so common. One might expect the same dueling egos making muddled music. New Directions defies this expectation with a fresh, satisfying release. All the hottest young players on the jazz scene are in attendance, but no one grandstands. Instead they take on some less often played covers and a few fine originals. Particularly pleasing is their take on “The Sidewinder” and the good-humored “No Room for Squares.”
Releases
SPOTLIGHT
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Beatrice: A Tale of a Tune
Saxophonist and composer Sam Rivers is remembered for his brilliant work as a leader and sideman, for the loft studio and performance space he operated in the 1970s, but above all, Rivers is remembered for “Beatrice,” a deeply felt ballad inspired by his wife. First recorded on his visionary debut as a leader, 1964’s Fuchsia Swing Song, “Beatrice” bridges the gap between hard bop and... read more
