In his early writings, philosopher Søren Kierkegaard utilized various pseudonyms to present distinctive viewpoints and to interact with each other in complex dialogues. Throughout its history, jazz musicians have also adopted similar approaches - particularly relying on cosmic iconography - to better push their personal creative boundaries. One recent example is the three … [Read more...]
Rob Shepherd’s Favorite Jazz Albums of 2019
We continue our Season of Lists with newly-minted Staff Writer Rob Shepherd’s Favorite Jazz Albums of 2019. Also have a look at Nextbop's Best Jazz Albums of 2019, Editor-in-Chief Anthony Dean-Harris' Favorite Jazz Albums of 2019, and Staff Writer Brian Kiwanuka’s Favorite Jazz Albums of 2019. Perhaps the most interesting takeaway from 2019 is the number of artists adapting … [Read more...]
Nextbop’s Best Jazz Albums of 2019
It was an amazing year for jazz music. The genre is constantly evolving and pushing the limits of creativity. Jazz musicians have a real talent for drawing inspiration from other musical styles while always staying rooted in a century of tradition. New directions are emerging, new stars are rising, seasoned veterans are redefining their sound. It's such a blessing to be part of … [Read more...]
Vocalist Dwight Trible Shares New Single, “Mothership”, Featuring Kamasi Washington
Legendary jazz vocalist and activist Dwight Trible, known to many as the godfather of the LA jazz scene, has had a fruitful career filled with collaborations with a slew of other famous musicians including Pharoah Sanders, Kamasi Washington (singing on The Epic and Heaven and Earth), J Dilla, Bobby Hutcherson, and Charles Lloyd. Furthermore, Trible is the vocal director for the … [Read more...]
Mark de Clive-Lowe – “Memories of Nanzenji” (Stream)
Keyboardist Mark de Clive-Lowe is an artist of great multitude. His melding sensibilities of jazz, hip hop, and other assorted musical influences has always been present in his work, yet in his upcoming album, Heritage, he's crafting work hearkening directly to his familial and cultural background. “I was raised bi-culturally and as time goes on, the more I appreciate how much … [Read more...]