The internet has brought a tremendous tool into our lives. We at All About Jazz have taken advantage of this technology for years to provide you with fresh angles on the music. As internet connection speed has improved, we have continued to exploit it. This month we focus on the many forms of media which can enliven the jazz experience. Although the art of jazz remains an art of sound, the vision of musicians often reveals itself more clearly within settings that extend beyond sound recording.

First off, we offer six new videos documenting live performances, including Dave Holland and Jane Monheit at the Monterey Jazz Festival. These films offer you an opportunity to experience music created in the moment by masters. Also included: revealing behind-the-scenes interviews. Take a few minutes to tune in and hear what these artists have to say in music and words. (Bet you didn't know Holland's manager is his daughter!)

Another wonderful alternative which allows you to enjoy the sights and sounds of jazz performance is DVD--an experience that's about as close as you can come to the real thing without being there. Our newly expanded DVD section covers live releases by Chick Corea and Duke Ellington which you can enjoy in the comfort of your own living room. (The Ellington DVD, On the Road, brings a lost master back to life... if only for an hour or so.)

While jazz radio may languish on your FM tuner, it's alive and well here at All About Jazz. To paraphrase a famous guitarist, we like the taste of unpredictability; and that's exactly how radio brings new music into your world. Since April, we've joined forces with internet radio personality John Sutton to bring you streaming audio from both emerging and established players. Sutton's Jazz Excursion program provides innovative jazz radio wherever you've got a computer and an internet connection.

And for the visually inclined, this month's jazz art gallery offers snapshots (and portraits) of music in progress. Joe Smith's Jazz Guitar series, for example, includes some powerfully gripping moments. Our three featured artists take advantage of the raw, emotive capacity of images to arrest the eyes.

Of course, there's no substitute for good old-fashioned observation and insight. In that category we bow down to C. Michael Bailey, who has brought his ongoing series of live jazz CD reviews to its grand finale: the Bill Evans trio live at the Village Vanguard in 1961. Check out his entire compilation, as well as two more additions to our Building A Jazz Library section: Modern Jazz Guitar and Smooth Jazz with Substance. Next time you're thinking about expanding your collection, these highlights would be a great place to start.

Whatever your musical persuasion, you can always find new ways to enjoy the experience. We're convinced that rich media is a versatile gateway for music lovers, and we think you'll agree.

ps. Stick around next month for our exciting new scratch-and-sniff special on Midwestern jazz bars!

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