Articles by J. Michael Harrison
Bethlehem and Sad Patrick: A Beautiful Sound of Love
by J. Michael Harrison
About a dozen years ago I was introduced to the emerging genius of a Philadelphia artist who was on her grind and spreading her creativity via a truly special blend of song, percussion and poetry. This iteration of her creative journey pairs her with a guitarist and songwriter, and together the tandem that is indeed Bethlehem and Sad Patrick create blissful, musical moments of love. This particular love moment appears on their wonderful 2023 release, This is What We Do ...
Continue ReadingGina D'Soto's Sublime Blueprint for Life!
by J. Michael Harrison
Late summer of 2021, emerging and very much in demand saxophonist Emilio Modeste and his gifted band of young jazz warriors filmed a beyond impressive and very memorable NPR Live Session in our performance studio. Emilio's session also introduced us to the magic that is indeed Gina D'Soto! We immediately invited Gina to return for a session featuring her own project. Since her inaugural session, I've been waiting patiently for her to complete her debut recording project. Scheduled for full ...
Continue ReadingNasir Dickerson’s Light Shines Bright!
by J. Michael Harrison
"Let It Shine" begins with a powerful poem (see below) that's beautifully sung by vocalist Danielle Nichole. It offers a warm and comforting gateway into the title selection of talented multi-instrumentalist Nasir Dickerson's album Let It Shine. For decades Nasir, his parents and siblings have been a source of inspiration, a bright light, and a tremendous asset to many in the Camden and Philadelphia area. So, no one should be surprised that the title composition of his 2022 release is ...
Continue ReadingA Gem From Richie Goods & Chien Chien Lu!
by J. Michael Harrison
The debut project from the ensemble known as Connected is fronted by the gifted bassist Richie Goods and the rising star vibraphonist/percussionist Chien Chien Lu. The project was formed during the pandemic while they were in lockdown together. Although I'm a huge fan of the entire album, the instrumental “Dull Ice Flower" continues to catch my ear. I was shocked to discover that throughout the process of recording the album, Richie and Chien had serious thoughts of not including the ...
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