Jazz Articles

Fred Randolph: Song Without Singing

by Edward Blanco
November 4, 2015

In demand San Francisco Bay Area-based educator, composer and bassist Fred Randolph unveils his third album as leader, Songs Without Singing containing ten innovative originals and one cover tune recorded with his working quintet and other Bay Area musicians. A fixture in San Francisco's vibrant jazz scene and a member of Orquesta Dharma, the Melanthium Ensemble and the premier Contemporary Jazz Orchestra, this full-time high school teacher is one of the busiest artist on the West coast. His extensive musical ...

Fred Randolph: New Day

by Glenn Astarita
May 7, 2007

Born and reared in Hawaii, bassist Fred Randolph developed a passion for jazz at an early age. After migrating to California, he diligently pursued higher education to achieve his music-oriented aspirations. Following performing on film soundtracks, and leading numerous bands, Randolph spent two seasons as a member of the Diablo Symphony Orchestra. A current resident of the Bay Area, the bassist recorded his first solo effort Learning Curve (Creative Spirit, 2003), which this writer became thoroughly enamored with upon its ...

Fred Randolph: Learning Curve

by Rob Cline
July 20, 2004

Fred Randolph's Learning Curve is heavy on tribute songs. The bassist/composer pays homage to Michael Brecker, Charles Mingus, John Coltrane, and pianist Art Hirahara, who joins him on the disc. But while Randolph does manage to suggest a Brecker Brothers tune, an aggressive yet catchy Mingus number and a journey into Trane's spiritual side, the real joys of this album have little to do with tributes.

The collaborative work of trumpeter Don Beck and tenor saxophonist Rob Roth is at ...