Jazz Articles
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Russ Spiegel: Nitty Gritty
by Jack Bowers
The phrase Nitty Gritty has a number of meanings, among the most oft-repeated of which are “mundane," “ordinary" and “commonplace." Guitarist Russ Spiegel surely had another definition in mind when naming his seventh album, whose aftermath brings to mind several graphic expressions. But mundane, ordinary and commonplace are not among them. Instead, words like seductive, panoramic and ambitious arise to describe the banquet that Spiegel and his (for the most part) organ trio have set before the ...
Continue ReadingRuss Spiegel: Caribbean Blue
by Jack Bowers
Pleasant music with ample color and variety--that's an apt description of Caribbean Blue, the latest albulm from California-bred, Florida-based guitarist Russ Spiegel, who has surrounded himself with world-class musicians and given them rein to canvass ten of his generally engaging compositions and bring them admirably to life. While everything on offer is respectable, it is the album's midsection--tracks 3-8--that rise above the others and lend the session much of its vitality and charm. After harmonica virtuoso Hendrik ...
Continue ReadingThe Russ Spiegel Jazz Orchestra: Transplants
by Edward Blanco
Veteran jazz guitarist Russ Spiegel has always had an affinity for big band music, from his days of performing with the European-based Landes Jugend Jazz Orchester Hessen, The Bill Warfield Big Band, and his own Russ Spiegel Big Band, comprised of top German and international musicians. He continues his love affair of progressive ensemble music on the debut recording by The Russ Spiegel Jazz Orchestra, Transplants, with big band arrangements of six originals and three covers, and featuring some of ...
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