May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins Passes Away at 95
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
The newest album from Frank Kimbrough, Play, will be released on May 16, on Palmetto Records. Touted as “spontaneous and improvisational,” Play features performances by bassist Masa Kamaguchi and legendary drummer Paul Motian.
Recorded in just five hours at Palmetto’s Maggie’s Farm on April 26, 2005 with no rehearsal, the album is the follow-up to 2004’s Lullabluebye. On the recording experience, Kimbrough said, “We played on a beautiful, sun-dappled spring afternoon in the country, set up in the same room…the day was intense, but comfortably so, the atmosphere friendly and enhanced by a true generosity of spirit.”
The album includes the tracks “Beginning,” “Lucent,” and “Little Big Man,” among others, all of which are original compositions by Kimbrough, with the exception of the album title track and “Conception Vessel,” both composed by Motian.
In support of the new album, Kimbrough will perform music from Play with Motian and Jay Anderson at the Jazz Standard on July 12 and 13. He will also appear at Merkin Hall in a piano concert with Paul Bley on May 22.
For more information visit www.frankkimbrough.com or www.palmetto-records.com.
Onstage, Rollins would move about restlessly, thrusting his tenor sax in the air as he blew.
May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
To the world, James Blood Ulmer was a legend, a visionary and a musical force whose sound was distinctive and unique. To his family, he was their teacher, their storyteller and a source of strength.
Jun 9, 2026 10:54 AM
With deep sorrow and profound love, we announce the passing of James Blood Ulmer, a boldly innovative guitarist,…
Dave King (left) and Reid Anderson offer insights into why The Bad Plus’ chemistry was cool, the accomplishments many and its longevity so fruitful.
May 12, 2026 11:42 AM
The scene still sticks with me. I had heard the oddball name of this new group being dropped around town, and…
How best to mark Miles Davis’ centennial? By allowing the stories to flow, and cross-discussions to happen.
May 26, 2026 10:40 AM
Editor’s Note: The iconic trumpeter, composer and bandleader Miles Davis would have turned 100 today (May 26, 2026).…
Ava Preston, a 12-time DownBeat Student Music Award winner, is currently pursuing her master’s degree in jazz voice at Juilliard.
May 12, 2026 10:00 AM
Ava Preston, from Cleveland, Ohio, was named the winner of the ninth annual Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition on…
