Dave has long been one of my favorite musicians. This may be the most complete example yet of his incredible talent as a composer and bandleader. Exceptional writing and playing all around. Listen to samples of “Graylen Epicenter” by David Binney.
In the 30+ years that I have been around it is finally dawning on me that the only serious commentary on the music that has any long-lasting value comes from musicians themselves.
A true masterpiece. One of the great film performances ever by Javier Bardem. Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu is truly visionary and one of the most inspiring artists of our time.
The most interesting folks musical inventors that I met along the way were from Belgium – the DeCap family. Composer Walter Hus has applied his extraordinary gifts to their instruments to create something really new and beautiful.
One of the best records of the year. Steve is always inspiring – a great musician.
Jonatha is one of my very favorite artists and one of the best singers and performers in the world.
A fascinating look at the early history of America. “A Voyage Long and Strange: Rediscovering the New World” by Tony Horwitz
The recent Metropolitan Opera production of this masterpiece made me seek out this DVD. A different but equally enriching performance. If you ever get the chance to see this live, don't miss it. John Adams: Doctor Atomic
Richard Rodgers at his best. Kelli O’Hara, Ted Sperling and many of the others who made “The Light in the Piazza” so great team up to remind us how incredible those songs are. All the hits of course, but especially “This Nearly Was Mine”. Lincoln Center Theater
This is a record I have been listening to for 35 years now and it only gets better each time.
“My product is doubt” – Bill Maher
Highly Recommended. “Religulous” by Bill Maher
And also don't miss “Jesus Camp”, some of which was filmed in my own hometown of Lee's Summit, Missouri.
After reading it cover to cover this summer I found it to be one of the best and most complete portraits on the state of jazz as it really is right now that has come along in, well....ever.
One of the most inspiring figures to emerge in decades. Plus he loves Miles and Trane! Barack Obama
Five unrelated but enriching experiences. All highly recommended.
Here are four incredible musicians who happen to be guitarists who are making the best music of their careers on their respective recent releases.
Joe is an unbelievable improviser. He has always been great and seems to be kicking everything to even higher levels recently.
“Just How Stupid Are We?: Facing the Truth About the American Voter” by Rick Shenkman
A great book that details the advances made in the study of DNA to clarify the history of humankind. “Mapping Human History: Genes, Race, and Our Common Origins” by Steve Olson
One of the greatest musicians of the past 40 years is bassist Steve Swallow.
Murder In Amsterdam: The Death of Theo van Gogh and the Limits of Tolerance – Ian Buruma
The Greatest Story Ever Sold: The Decline and Fall of Truth from 9/11 to Katrina – Frank Rich
As the third in director Alejandro González Iñárritu’s trilogy (Amores Perros and 21 Grams being the first and second films), we are witnessing the emergence of a new and inspirational narrative form.
Four of the best guitarists of our time, all playing regularly around NYC and sounding great no matter what the setting.
Brad Mehldau – Art of the Trio Vol. IV: Back at the Vanguard
An important look at the most significant event in recent American history by one of the best storytellers of our time.
