This month, we mourn the passing of the seminal composer George Russell, whose book, Lydian Chromatic Concept of Tonal Organization, was the precursor for a modal approach to jazz and such masterworks as Miles Davis’ Kind of Blue. But for such a pedigree, Russell may not be well-known to some readers. The history of jazz, for all its iconic figures like Miles, is made richer for its more obscure participants. These may play a less assertive instrument or just have more of an unassuming personality but they are a crucial thread in the jazz fabric. Russell was one of these individuals and he, and his music, will be missed. Continuing this theme, On The Cover this month is renowned British reedman John Surman. One of the first original voices to come out of ‘60s London, Surman may be best known to American audiences for his work with Jack DeJohnette and Paul Bley but has been a compelling leader for five decades; he visits Birdland this month for his first leader date in New York to promote a new album on ECM. Interviewee trombonist Wycliffe Gordon, once a mainstay in the Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, also has been an accomplished, if occasional, bandleader, especially on an instrument that often suffers in reputation compared to its frontline siblings. And speaking of underappreciated, bassists have it tougher than anyone but that hasn’t stopped Artist Feature John Hebert, who is celebrating his debut as an album leader this month.
And for more things you should know more about, check out our profiles on the grassroots New Artists Records (Label Spotlight), the non-profit concert presenter Connection Works (Club Profile), former Ornette guitarist Bern Nix (Encore) and underground sax legend Charles Tyler (Lest We Forget).
As the summer winds down and the school year begins, emerge from your heatstroke and barbecue daze. There’s no place like Fall in New York and no city is better for jazz fans.
We’ll see you out there...
