Daily Dose Of Jazz…
Martin France was born on February 29, 1964 in Rainham, Kent, England and began performing at the age of twelve backing singers in working men’s clubs with organ trios in and around Manchester. He studied under Geoff Riley, Kenny Clare, Joel Rothman, and principal percussionist Richard Smith of The Hallé, the Manchester orchestra.
In 1983 Martin began his recording career performing as a sideman on several records for ECM Records, toured with several of the labels roster during the 80s and 90s and subsequently led several sessions as a leader.
The turning point in his early career was as a member of the 1980s big band Loose Tubes, where he began working on projects that included film soundtracks, jazz theatre and cross cultural collaborations with other big bands and orchestras.
France formed his own band Spin Marvel, that showcased more electronic and sequence drumming, and would be an integral rhythm backbone on more than 60 albums working with some of the world’s finest musicians including Kenny Wheeler, Elvis Costello, Bob Mintzer, Steve Swallow, Joe Lovano, Lee Konitz, Marc Johnson and Dave Holland to name a few and is currently a regular performer with the NDR Radio Orchestra in Hamburg.
More Posts: drums
Jazz In Film
The Subterraneans is a 1960 film adaptation of Jack Kerouac’s book about the “new bohemians”, today’s young rebels who live and love in a world of their own. This is their story told to the hot rhythms of fabulous jazz!
Directed by Ranald MacDougall and stars Leslie Caron, George Peppard, Janice Rule, Roddy McDowell, Anne Seymour, Jim Hutton and Arte Johnson.
Music by Andre Previn with appearances by Carmen McRae, Gerry Mulligan, Bob Enevoldsen, Art Pepper, Art Farmer, Russ Freeman, Red Mitchell, Dave Bailey, Shelly Manne, Bill Perkins and Chico Hamilton.
#preserving genius
More Posts: film
Jazz In Film
Some Call It Loving is an updated version of Sleeping Beauty about a woman who has been asleep for eight years. Purchased from a carnival by a lonely man, this 1973 vehicle chronicles the erotic fantasies of a young white jazz musician.
Directed by James B. Harris and starring Zalman King, Carol White, Tisa Farrow and Richard Pryor the film is backed by an excellent music track by Richard Hazard with Ronnie Lang ghosting the baritone sax solos for the lead actor.
Accompanied on the soundtrack are trumpeter Conte Candoli, trombonist Bob Brookmeyer, electric pianist Dave Grusin, bassist Ray Brown and drummer Stan Levey. Bassist Leroy Vinnegar appears in a rehearsal sequence with source music provided by Bud Shank, plus strings.
The soundtrack uses Nat King Cole’s recording of The Very Thought Of You.
More Posts: film
Requisites
Love Lifted Me, recorded in 1962, is the debut album of Ron Jefferson as a leader and is infused with gospel flavoring on the title track to the classic “Flamingo” that features some wonderful work by Bobby Hutcherson. Add up-tempo swingers like “Little One” and “George’s Dilemma” makes for a delightful mix of tunes. However, Leroy Vinnegar’s contribution of timekeeping and soloing gives the listener an opportunity to be enthralled especially on his composition “For Carl Perkins”.
Personnel: Ron Jefferson – drums, Laurence “Tricky” Lofton – trombone, Wilbur Brown – tenor saxophone, Bobby Hutcherson – vibraphone, Frank Strazzeri – piano, Leroy Vinnegar – bass
Recording/Release Date: Hollywood, California – 1962
Label: Pacific Jazz ST 36 CD: Toshiba-EMI PJ0036 (Japan only)
Songs: Love Lifted Me, For Carl Perkins, Little One, Ivy League Blues, Flamingo, George’s Dilemma
More Posts: collectible,drums
The Jazz Voyager
Nestled in a quiet corner of Alpharetta, just 15 minutes north of the perimeter off 400 resides this cozy little nightspot called The Velvet Note that brings welcoming audiences an unplugged jazz experience.The Jazz Voyager steers his rental to the Georgia location at 4075 Old Milton Parkway, 30005. Intimate in its approach, one is swathed in the tapestry of music emanating from the stage, regardless of where one rests comfortably in this forty-seat room.
Within this construct, owner Tamara Fuller has carefully crafted a wonderful ambiance with light, sound, libation and culinary delights that will excite your senses while assuaging any fear that your encounter will be anything less than your desire.
As one who enjoys seeking life beyond the curve, this Jazz Voyager was enthralled as was the entire audience to a powerful and moving set performed by vocalist of Alvin Stone. The music was impeccable and in good company with sumptuous lump crab cakes, a glass of red brought by a delightful and attentive staff.
I highly recommend making a reservation for this acoustic respite at 855.583.5838, look for the menu at thevelvetnote.com and is not fr the fainthearted pocket as this nightspot is rated $$$. But for those who want the unexpected pleasure of experiencing jazz up close and personal in this 40 seat room, take a moment to refresh your mind, body and spirit. in this acoustic living room.