Improving Upon Perfection, Part Six
Sean Murphy(Parts 1-5 of this series here, here, here, here and here) "On The Sunny Side of the Street" is a song with a long, wonderful history. Like so many jazz standards,…
Semi-Autobiographical, Inspired By a Best Friend (Revisited)*
I am not alone. I have a best friend, who happens to be a dog. He is really good for me, reminding me to eat, sleep, go to the bathroom…
10 for NYC by 10, on 9/11
New York City would be unimaginable without jazz, and vice versa. Here then is a tribute for --and by-- several musicians who help define and celebrate the cultural mecca of our known universe.…
Sonny Rollins, Still Living The Well-Lived Life (Revisited)
In honor of this American treasure --a literal living legend-- on the occasion of his 82nd birthday, I'll revisit a piece I wrote in April, 2010. If you've lived on…
Semi-Autobiographical, Inspired By a Best Friend (Revisited)*
I am not alone. I have a best friend, who happens to be a dog. He is really good for me, reminding me to eat, sleep, go to the bathroom…
The Death of an Indestructible Dog: What Quinzy Taught Me
Portrait of the artist as a young pup. Wait, did I say artist? I meant barbarian. No, that's neither fair nor accurate. It's difficult with Quinzy-- he was many…
In Defense of Good Sax, Part Four: Separating The Best of The Best
Best sax solos ever? That is kind of like choosing the best sunset; it's impossible. But some do stand out apart from the rest, and beauty is always in the…
In Defense of Good Sax, Part Two
Wherein five jazz saxophonists "slum" and make truly indelible contributions to five well-loved and much-played rock songs. Considering one of the all-time ALL TIME greats (Sonny Rollins) is on this…
Ten Songs For Myself
Eight years ago today. I'm sure anyone who has lost a parent (or heaven forbid, a child) can understand that when this happens it becomes a line of demarcation: your…
Sonny Rollins, Still Living The Well-Lived Life
Nice feature on American treasure (and no I don't use that word lightly) Sonny Rollins in today's Boston Globe. The man is going to celebrate his 80th birthday this year…