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…
Drummer Eric McPherson (left), pianist Fred Hersch and bassist John Hébert are set to release Live in Europe on Palmetto Records.
(Photo: John Abbott)Pianist Fred Hersch and his trio have a new disc, Live in Europe, set for release May 11 on Palmetto Records. Take a listen to “Newklypso (for Sonny Rollins),” a cut off the upcoming album.
Dedicated to one of the bandleader’s heroes, the composition merges a playful rhythm with some heady pianistic turns as the ensemble expounds on its own insular vocabulary.
“The trio has a shared language; by now we each contribute an equal part in what goes on musically during a performance,” Hersch said about playing with his troupe, which includes drummer Eric McPherson and bassist John Hébert.
For more information about Hersch’s recordings, visit his homepage. DB
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…
