So though AllAboutJazz-New York received a nomination for Best Periodical Covering Jazz by the Jazz Journalists Association, we lost out to Jazz Times. As a result, we have decided to put on hold plans for an AAJ-NY mansion in the Hamptons and are forced to stay in the city all July. Luckily, even with the city's population oozing into Long Island, there is plenty going on. We have a rare opportunity to present three musicians - all wonderful players - who may not get the attention they deserve. The groundbreaking clarinetist Don Byron is featured as our Cover Story, discussing his myriad projects. Steve Nelson, vibing on vibes into his third decade now, speaks at length about growing up in Pittsburgh, hands-on versus academic jazz and playing with Dave Holland in our Interview. And pianist Frank Kimbrough, fresh off a duet with Paul Bley and with a new recording with Paul Motian has his personal information sifted through (legally) in our Artist Profile.
In other articles, Atavistic (Label Spotlight) has been at the vanguard of releasing important new works by progressive artists as well as unearthing gem after sparkling gem from avant jazz' obscure history. Adobe Blues (Club Profile) may give readers a reason to hit the high seas and head over to Staten Island during the warm months.
For those who want to feel like they have been on vacation without the lost luggage, take a look at our three Festival Reports where we bring coverage from Canada (both the Suoni Il Per Popolo in Montreal and Festival Internationale de Musique Actuelle de Victoriaville) and almost Canada (the Rochester International Jazz Festival).
Since so many people come to New York for holiday, make your July a stay-at-home trip and go out to a concert or 12. Just because it is hot doesn't mean jazz takes a vacation.
See you at the shows...
For more information contact All About Jazz.
