Before we totally immerse ourselves in the New Year, I want to look back and remember some of the great jazz artists that we lost in 2014. While they may have left this place, we are so blessed that we are able through today’s technology, to look back a fondly remember why their art will live forever.
May they all rest in peace.
Buddy DeFranco
Kenny Drew, Jr.
Charlie Haden
Wayne Henderson (The Crusaders – trombone)
Tim Hauser (Manhattan Transfer)
Joe Sample
Jimmy Scott
Horace Silver
Gerald Wilson
Please not that this is not an exhaustive list. There will be additional remembrances in Part 2.
The nominees in this category are mostly familiar names, with the possible exception of Miguel Zenón. Two of the albums here probably ended up in this grouping because of the elimination of the Latin Jazz category.
Frankly, this nomination is a bit of a head scratcher. Randy Brecker is a gifted musician without a doubt, and the Danish Radio Big Band has done some fine work on many, many recordings. But the arrangements here border on pedestrian and the whole date feels as generic as its title. The exception is our feature track, which is first rate. Still, don’t be surprised if Mr. Brecker wins this award, based mostly on name recognition.
The finest jazz bassist under 40 has now added a big band to his impressive repertoire. The Good Feelingis a solid first effort with a number of impressive tracks and creative arrangements from Mr. McBride’s pen.
Arturo O’Farrill continues to do his father’s legacy proud, as he has created another thought-provoking album, that has as much for your mind as it does for your feet. If this album were in the Latin Jazz category, it would be a strong contender. But now, it’s a bit of a longshot.
Gerald Wilson has been arranging leading big bands since the days of Basie, Ellington and Goodman and he shows no sign of slowing down at age 93, writing arrangements that are dense, complex, brassy and swinging all at once. This album, Legacyis up to the fine standards that he has been hitting regularly for the past 15 years. A sentimental favorite.
Another album that would have likely competed in the now defunct Latin Jazz category, Alma Adentro is a stunning work of art. (A Curt’s Cafe Best of 2011) Mr. Zenón is at the top of his artistic game and it shows in the brilliance of his arrangements of these songs by some of Puerto Rico’s most celebrated composers. Because he is a relative unknown, Zenón is not considered a favorite in the voting, but this is the best album of those nominated. If there’s any justice, Alma Adentrowill win.
Curt's Jazz Cafe 