Jazz Articles

The Ed Palermo Big Band: Plays the Music of Frank Zappa

by Jack Bowers
November 1, 1999

Frank Zappa’s now batting .500. I’d heard one other big–band tribute to Zappa’s music (by an ensemble that will remain nameless) and was thoroughly unimpressed. But the second time’s a charm — and a charmer as well.

What’s the difference? It has to be the fabulous charts by bandleader / alto saxophonist Ed Palermo who’s long been an admirer of Zappa and manages to bring out the best in his labyrinthine and often quirky compositions. What’s more, he makes sure ...

Cedar Walton (Astor Place: Roots

by C. Michael Bailey
June 1, 1999

Roots. Cedar Walton is a treasure with an uncanny sense for composition, arrangement, and performance. His most recent recording Roots readily bears this out. His music is layered, as is his band. The liner notes introduce the band members first as Walton's trio, the rhythm engine driving his machine. Next are introduced “Added Front Line Instruments." The big names. Joshua Redman, who's tenor voice continues to mature on “Boliva," “Ojos De Rojo" and “Firm Roots." Terrance Blanchard chimes in on ...

Ed Palermo: Plays the Music of Frank Zappa

by Robert Middleton
November 1, 1997

Yes! Why not? Of course! Frank Zappa's music in a big band setting. Wonderful. From the witty, irreverent packaging to the masterful playing, note-true arrangements and the spot-on selection of Frank's tunes, this is an album to celebrate. What album from Zappa came out the same year as Bitches Brew (by Miles) and also broke new ground? Hot Rats. Bitches Brew was Jazz meets Rock and Hot Rats was Rock meets Jazz. On that mostly instrumental album, which he never ...