Mar 30, 2026 10:30 PM
Flea Finds His Jazz Thing
In the relatively small pantheon of certifiable rock stars venturing into the intersection of pop music and jazz, the…
The Monterey Jazz Festival has received more than $350,000 in grants to preserve its archival recordings of historic performances from numerous music legends.
Ever since Dizzy Gillespie performed “The Star Spangled Banner” at the festival’s first night in 1958, other performances have included the 1960 debut of Jon Hendrick’s “Evolution Of The Blues” and Duke Ellington’s “Suite Thursday.” Coleman Hawkins, Ben Webster, Thelonious Monk also appeared at the Monterey event. Recordings captured these performances and have been archived at Stanford University since 1985.
Since the recordings have been deteriorating, different foundations have stepped in to preserve these documents so they will be available to the public. These donations include $225,000 from the Federal Save America’s Treasures Fund, $93,393 from the National Historical Publications and Records Commission and $40,000 from the Grammy Foundation.
For more information go to: montereyjazzfestival.org
“Cerebral and academic thought is a different way to approach music,” Flea says of his continuing dive into jazz. “I’ve always relied on emotion and intuition and physicality.”
Mar 30, 2026 10:30 PM
In the relatively small pantheon of certifiable rock stars venturing into the intersection of pop music and jazz, the…
Cécile McLorin Salvant busts out Jelly Roll Morton’s “The Murder Ballad” at Big Ears, here with pianist Sullivan Fortner.
Apr 7, 2026 1:21 PM
There’s pluralism, then there’s PLURALISM! — and then there’s Big Ears. Thurston Moore, who participated in…
Each of the 25 JAMs has delivered a poster featuring a jazz legend that is sent out to schools across the nation. This year’s poster features Tony Bennett.
Mar 30, 2026 10:20 PM
Every April for the past quarter century, something remarkable has happened across the United States and far beyond.…
“We thought it’s important that Ronin has a new statement,” said Nik Bärtsch of his band’s latest album, Spin. “The sound is differently produced, so it reflects more of who we are.”
Apr 21, 2026 10:00 AM
Nik Bärtsch cuts an imposing figure on stage. He’s unmistakable with his soul patch, shaven head and black attire.…
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…