Aug 27, 2024 12:09 PM
Remembering Russell Malone, 1963-2024
Guitarist and bandleader Russell Malone died Aug. 23, while on tour in Japan, after battling end-stage kidney failure.…
Conguero Poncho Sanchez is set to issue Trane’s Delight on Sept. 20 through Concord Picante.
(Photo: Estevan Oriol)The first record Poncho Sanchez bought with his own money—when he was 11—was Coltrane.
The percussionist has held on to his affection for the visionary saxophonist in the intervening years while working with a host of inimitable bandleaders—Cal Tjader, Woody Herman, Tito Puente—and leading his own groups. Trane’s Delight, a disc due out Sept. 20 on Concord Picante, reifies Sanchez’s dedication to the John Coltrane with several covers set among original numbers and works penned by Duke Ellington and Hubert Laws.
“I’ve always loved John Coltrane ever since I was a kid and first learned about jazz,” Sanchez said in a press release. “I’ve recorded tributes to a lot of my heroes ... so, I thought it was definitely time to do a tribute to the great John Coltrane.”
For Sanchez’s take on “Blue Train,” which debuts here, the opening theme remains as recognizable and inspired as when it first appeared on record more than 60 years back. Bolstered by the bandleader’s work—and the first solo by trombonist and musical director Francisco Torres—it all comes off as a respectful update, one that’s a little less blue than the original.
For info on Sanchez’s upcoming performances, visit his website. DB
In addition to his instrumental prowess, Malone was praised for his musical generosity and his singular sense of humor.
Aug 27, 2024 12:09 PM
Guitarist and bandleader Russell Malone died Aug. 23, while on tour in Japan, after battling end-stage kidney failure.…
Benny Golson soaks in the music during a late-career performance at Chicago’s Jazz Showcase.
Sep 24, 2024 12:02 PM
Benny Golson, one of the greatest composers and saxophonists of the bebop era, passed away Saturday, Sept. 21, at his…
Harpist Brandee Younger is among the performers on the program for this year’s Hyde Park Jazz Fest in Chicago.
Sep 17, 2024 11:40 AM
The 18th Annual Hyde Park Jazz Festival will be held on 13 unique stages across Chicago’s Hyde Park, Kenwood and…
“I don’t focus on the harshness of the music business,” Lloyd says. “I focus on the profundity of what we’re doing because that’s the real stuff. You can change the world with that.”
Sep 4, 2024 1:29 PM
“To get this honor at this late stage, I suppose I’m blessed. I just know that this is a sacred song, and I’m in…
Hancock has a new project on the horizon but says he will not put it out until he’s ready.
Sep 10, 2024 12:25 PM
On April 12 of this year, Herbie Hancock turned 84. How many people do you know in their 80s who are still working full…
