Business Blast
James P. Johnson/John Coltrane tonight at Jazz Gallery + links
I have rarely played many solo piano concerts, but that might be starting to change. Tonight in NYC, sets at 7 and 9:
Nelson George on the late Clive Davis.
Ted Panken on the late James “Blood” Ulmer.
Olivia Giovetti improvises a “Dirtbag Mozart.” This is truly hilarious.
Also very funny: Vince Keenan gets the high-school commencement speaker he wanted.
What a fantastic program -- would be there if I could. Ethan, any chance you'll be recording this? Would love to hear someday.
P.S. For the benefit of anyone not already familiar with this album, which despite the title is a solo piano recording, I highly recommend THE SYMPHONIC JAZZ OF JAMES P JOHNSON by William Albright. Here's the track list.
Fascination 3:55
April In Harlem (From Harlem Symphony) 6:11
Keep Off The Grass 2:48
Concerto Jazz-A-Mine (Second Movement) 6:38
A-flat Dream 3:08
Yamekraw (Negro Rhapsody) 12:51