NEXT Collective: Kris Bowers (Piano)
Leading up to the February 26th release of ‘Cover Art,’ we will be bringing you interviews with the musicians and previews of the songs each one arranged for the record, so check back with us often! Today we’ve got an interview with Kris Bowers, one of two pianists on the record, who arranged “Wonderfox” by The Stepkids and “Little Brother” by Grizzly Bear for ‘Cover Art.”
Esperanza Spalding Live at the Apollo Theater
Radio Music Society is Spalding’s companion LP to 2010’s Chamber Music Society, in which she explored a lush, expressive hybrid of contemporary jazz and classical chamber music. The two dates at the Apollo were the last in an American run, before beginning a leg in Europe. As her showcase for Chamber Music Society was, a singular set piece that included music only from that album, the Radio Music show was geared with the same premise. Gone was the elaborate string orchestra, and in its place was a 12 piece band with a seven player horn section.
Revivalist Presents: Jesse Fischer & Soul Cycle’s Retro Future
Producer. Engineer. Multi-instrumentalist. Singer? Jesse Fischer holds no bars with his latest Soul Cycle release. Retro Future is the manifestation of Fischer’s vision. A mix of acoustic, electric, and electronic instruments, the album ranges from original compositions to covers, and from old-school to the future. If there is one take-away from this release, it is that you can not underestimate the power and vision of true artists. Check out the album streaming below with a track-by-track analysis by Jesse Fischer.
4/21: NYC – Esperanza Spalding at Webster Hall this Saturday
Esperanza Spalding launches the Radio Music Society World Tour today! She will be in New York with her full ensemble on 4/21 at Webster Hall.
CMJ Music Marathon 2011 Preview
The College Music Journal (CMJ) has long been the prevailing voice for up-and-coming and break out artists. A 5-day music marathon is the staple meat and potato platter for music enthusiasts throughout New York City, who get a potpourri of music acts, ranging from every feasible genre preference from every corner of the world. Out of the hundreds of performances throughout the week, here are some of our top picks.
New Erimaj Single
Check out the release of the first single from all-star drummer, Jamire Williams, upcoming release Conflict of a Man under the name Erimaj. Williams comprises an experienced and multi-talented group to join him on the project including Corey King, Vicente Archer, Chris Turner, Matt Stevens and Alan Hampton guest-songwriting.
Harlem Stage Wraps Up 2010 and Previews 2011
Wrapping up the Fall ’10 season at the Harlem Stage was the one night performance of “Off the Wall: A Michael Jackson Tribute.” Contrary to the plethora of Michael tribute shows out there, this group — including a tight group of young musicians and vocalists led by musical director and keyboardist Raymond Angry — sought to change up the feel, making the songs their own. It was less a cover show than a reinterpretation and homage to the songs that Michael brought to us throughout the years. Highlights included a swooning, emotional arrangement of “Billie Jean” by Chris Turner as well as numerous rearranged classic with the vocal prowess of the young stars blowing away the sol-out crowd.
