by Ken Laster Miles Davis is undoubtably one of the most influential artists in the history of the jazz idiom. He is also among the most revered, respected as well as criticized and controversial players in jazz. So, when any new media is released regarding the life and music of Miles, it is always met [...]
by Ken Laster Click to enlarge The 52nd consecutive year of Paul Brown Monday Night Jazz wrapped up with some adventurous free jazz from the OGJB Quartet. The avant garde sounds emanating from the pavillion came from the venerable masters Lake, Haynes, Fonda and Altschul. They thrilled thousands in attendance for this finale [...]
by Ken Laster You couldn't ask for a more perfect night to start the 52nd consecutive year of the Paul Brown Monday Night Jazz series. As the crowds gathered at 6:00 PM, the sky was clear, temperatures were comfortable and the anticipation was growing for this return to Hartford of a couple of the most beloved [...]
Review by Ken Laster This is the debut album by Hartford (now New York) bassist Matt Dwonszyk. Matt is joined with some of his college colleagues with which he has developed a musical bond over nearly a decade. Besides being a vehicle for Dwonszyk's front and center bass playing, he shows off his ample composing [...]
by Ken Laster If you have been waiting for this movie to find its way to a theater near you, wait no longer. Bolden is available through your favorite movie streaming service. Click the links to rent or purchase on Apple iTunes or Google Play. I'll rate Bolden 3 of 5 stars just [...]
The Hartford Jazz Society and Hartford Public Library are partnering to present Jazz 101, an introduction to Jazz music and the sounds, history and culture surrounding it. The course is 8 two-hour classes presented once a week . No tests, no papers, no homework, no pressure, no question is too basic! THIS WORKSHOP [...]
Coming this Spring, jazz returns to The Packing House in Willington Connecticut. If you haven't experienced this unique performance space east of Hartford, this would be a great time to do so. A short drive on I-84 East through the rolling hills of eastern Connecticut will take you to this rural historic mill which once [...]
by Ken Laster click images to enlarge In September of 2018 Wayne Shorter released an epic 3 CD set of music with his long-standing adventurous quartet of Shorter on tenor and soprano saxophones, Danilo Perez on piano, John Pattitucci bass and Brian Blade drums. This release is so much more than a record [...]
Matt Chasen is an important figure in Hartford's Jazz community. As a musician, educator and historian of this art-form, Matt has recently been documenting many of the important concerts and activities of our jazz scene. Here, he pays tribute to one of Hartford's continuing and endearing jazz traditions. Black Eyed Sally's 350 Asylum Street, [...]
Most of us hard-core jazz fans are familiar with the ever changing club and concert scene in the Greater Hartford area. However, East of the river often goes unnoticed. One of those venues that deserves greater attention, and has been hosting some great shows for the last four years is The Packing House. Their non-profit [...]