Jun 3, 2025 11:25 AM
In Memoriam: Al Foster, 1943–2025
Al Foster, a drummer regarded for his fluency across the bebop, post-bop and funk/fusion lineages of jazz, died May 28…
Mark Samuels, president and founder of New Orleans-based record label, Basin Street Records, has announced the label’s renewal of its exclusive recording deal with Kermit Ruffins. The first recording of the three-record deal is scheduled to begin next month with a proposed spring 2009 release date.
“This is a momentous and sentimental occasion,” said Samuels. “Kermit Ruffins was our first artist signed in October 1997, the first to record in November 1997 and the first CD release in February 1998. It also marks the first new contract for Basin Street since October of 2003.”
Ruffins, a New Orleans native, has released six CDs on Basin Street, including: The Barbecue Swingers Live (1998), Swing This! (1999), 1533 St. Phillip Street (2001), Big Easy (2002), Throwback (2005) and Live At Vaughan’s (2007).
More info: basinstreetrecords.com
Foster was truly a drummer to the stars, including Miles Davis, Sonny Rollins and Joe Henderson.
Jun 3, 2025 11:25 AM
Al Foster, a drummer regarded for his fluency across the bebop, post-bop and funk/fusion lineages of jazz, died May 28…
Benny Benack III and his quartet took the Midwest Jazz Collective’s route for a test run this spring.
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When it came time to pose for the cover of her new album, Lady In Satin — a tribute to Billie Holiday’s 1958…
James Brandon Lewis earned honors for Artist of the Year and Tenor Saxophonist of the Year. Three of his recordings placed in the Albums of the Year category.
Jul 17, 2025 12:44 PM
You see before you what we believe is the largest and most comprehensive Critics Poll in the history of jazz. DownBeat…
