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Leigh Pilzer: Beatin' the Odds
by Jack Bowers
Beatin' the Odds. To baritone saxophonist Leigh Pilzer, that is far more than a catchphrase: it is a grim yet ultimately happy reality. In 2017, Pilzer was diagnosed with cancer. After extensive treatments, her odds of surviving more than five years were reckoned as around thirty percent. But six years have gone by, and not only has Pilzer beaten the odds, she is cancer-free, back in the saddle and performing again. And not only performing but writing ...
Continue ReadingIan Wardenski: Trust
by Geannine Reid
Ian Wardenski's Quintet returns with a follow-up to Collective Thoughts (IW, 2019). The innovative bandleader and guitarist continues to create a sound that combines the aesthetics of a chamber group with the freedom, spontaneity and improvisation of a small jazz combo. Trust features Mercedes Beckman on alto saxophone, Jerry Ascione, piano, Amy Shook, bass, Frank Russo, drums, and Tamara Tucker, voice. Wardenski furthers his collective sound by combining Tucker's agile wordless vocals with his guitar for a distinctive ...
Continue ReadingUptown Vocal Jazz Quartet: Fools For Yule
by Richard J Salvucci
Before you simply scroll past to say, “Oh boy, another Christmas recording," stop. This one is different, hip and fun. If you remember the classic done by Manhattan Transfer years ago, which you may have well memorized by now, you are ready for another one. “I've Got My Love to Keep Me Warm," the set's opener, will not (thankfully) conjure up Les Brown. “Fool For Yule" is entertaining, wry, and, in its way, a bit, arch. With yet ...
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