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…
Jane Bunnett (second from left) leads Maqueque through 12 tracks on On Firm Ground/Tierra Firme.
(Photo: Lauren Deutsch)Janne Bunnett and Maqueque are set to follow-up 2016’s Oddara with On Firm Ground/Terra Firme, scheduled for release on Sept. 6 through the Linus imprint.
The Canadian bandleader helms the six-piece troupe on a dozen tracks that incorporate ideas from the jazzworld and the vast well of Cuban music. Vocalist Daymé Arocena returns to fold and offers up “Mysteries Of Jane’s House,” but on Bunnett’s “Monkey See, Monkey Do” another one-time singer with the group, Melvis Santa, takes the mic. The song debuts below.
Come for the group interplay and positive message, but stay for the mesmeric drumming of Yissy García on traps and Mary Paz on percussion.
For additional information about the album, visit the Linus Entertainment homepage. DB
“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.…
Bollani demonstrates at the piano during a live Blindfold Test in Umbria, Italy, while writer Ashley Kahn, right, and translator Greg Burk look on.
Mar 24, 2026 11:42 AM
Raconteur, bon vivant and popular television host Stefano Bollani is also one of Italy’s best-known pianists, a rare…
