Apropos, the subject was Westons distinctively substantive compositions, and to deliver thick slices of that singular book royally before the joyous packed house of Weston family, friends, intimates, and enthusiasts, T.K. called upon the very able talents of guest pianists Mulgrew Miller, Arturo O'Farrill, and Rodney Kendrick. Each of them paid humble, celebratory homage and brought their finely honed touch to the Weston ouevre. Other guests included vocalist Jann Parker, who rendered a stunning “African Lady" in spare duet with Clarke; a Gnawa maalem, and a Senegalese kora player rounded out the onstage celebrants. One guest in particular brought down the house in his stint, 89-year old NEA Jazz Master conguero Candido.
Randy and African Rhythms will finish out the week at The Jazz Standard through Sunday, located at 116 E. 27th Street just off Lexington Ave. Better make your reservations (212/576-2232) for what promises to be the most joyous, spiritual music in New York this week!
Our book project: African Rhythms: the autobiography of Randy Weston, will be released in October on Duke University Press. Check this site for updates.
