Tag: Jazz

RIP Tony Bennett


At the age of 96, by anyone’s standard, Tony Bennett had a good innings.

I had the pleasure of attending a Tony Bennett concert at Portsmouth Guildhall. This would have been in the early seventies. Well over forty years ago, when I was in my twenties.

Obviously, I don’t remember a whole lot about the show. I do remember that he only had a small band supporting him. That they opened for him and that I really liked the stuff they did. I also know how when Tony came on stage, he owned the stage, the auditorium, and the audience.

He was the consummate professional showman with a superb voice and his own style.

He will be missed, but he has left behind a huge legacy of recordings. Dip in, give them a listen.

RIP Dave Brubeck


At the age of 91, Dave Brubeck has departed this earth and we have lost another great talent.

I am pretty sure that it was hearing the  Dave Brubeck Quartets rendition of  “Take Five” that  really introduced me to jazz. Written by quartet member  Paul Desmond this track always makes me stop and listen. This may seem strange to hear from a dedicated rock music lover. In truth I love all music that is played and presented well and for me the clear airy drumming with the iconic sax “vocal” all underpinned by Brubecks virtuoso piano playing has it all.

http://youtu.be/faJE92phKzI

Of course Brubeck is more than this one single lifted from the 1959 album “Time Out” so as another tribute to Brubeck I include “Take The ‘A’ Train”

http://youtu.be/EbUklDXdH2o

The Dave Brubeck web site is showing a nice collection of pictures of Brubeck over the years to a soundtrack showcasing a selection of  tracks featuring Dave’s piano playing. The site is well worth a visit.

Brubeck died of heart failure yesterday, just one day before his 92nd birthday.

Dave we will miss you.