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When pianists Chris White and Lara Driscoll perform as the Firm Roots Duo, they draw on profound lines of communication. They’ve developed that bond as spouses and as independent artists with voices of their own. Based in the Chicago area, White and Driscoll met as students at the University of Illinois. They’ve since set aside space in their respective careers to hone and formalize a concept now documented on “Firm Roots,” their duo debut. They interpret canonical jazz works by Horace Silver, Ann Ronell, Cedar Walton and more, drawing on the influences of piano legends on the order of Hank Jones, Art Tatum and Phineas Newborn.
Guitarist and composer Albare was born in Morocco and grew up in Israel and France. At age 8 he joined the Music Conservatory in his hometown in Israel for 2 years, although his musical development was completely self-taught. These days, as Albare has lost his central vision faculties due to a genetic illness, his playing is completely by ear. In 1972, he discovered the sound of Antonio Carlos Jobim while watching Marcel Camus’s cult film, “Orpheus Negro.” The haunting melodies and unique compositions left a profound impression on the young guitarist and inspired Albare to study and play the melodic style which he is now known for. After the great success of his first disc of Jobim tunes, he now releases “Albare Plays Jobim Vol. 2.”
Also this week, Chad Leftkowitz-Brown releases “Quartet Sessions,” a vibrant, refined and masterful eighth LP from the NYC-based saxophonist;
“The Mulligan Chronicles” is the culmination of years of study into the compositions of Gerry Mulligan by reedman David Larsen, who enlisted the help of veteran musicians who worked with Mulligan for the project;
and “Songs of Joy” is pianist Yoko Miwa’s 9th release as a leader featuring her longstanding trio with bassist Will Slater and drummer Scott Goulding.
Short List with Host Bob Naujoks
The Wednesday Night Special
Jazz Corner of the World with Host Craig Kessler