It’s truly amazing how violinist Sam Bardfeld is able to thread the needle at the point where avant-garde, modern jazz and chamber come together. The nature of the lyricism of The Great Enthusiasms is one of curious melodies, volatile bursts of intensity, and a sardonic wit. The trio of Bardfeld, pianist Kris Davis and drummer Michael Sarin somehow roll out this concoction of tones and influences in a way that is remarkably embraceable. If one were to create a soundtrack for a printed collection of The Far Side comic strips, this is likely how it would sound.
Today’s videos feature ensembles that were among my monthly selections for Best of Bandcamp Jazz. 2017 saw a minimum of 120 recommendations, so it’s understandable that some might have fallen off the radar over the course of the year. Here’s a chance to reverse that trend and remind everyone…
Recapping the Best of 2011, featuring: Will Collier Septet, Joel Harrison String Choir, Tin/Bag (Kris Tyner & Mike Baggetta), and Adam Baldych Damage Control. ***** Will Collier Septet - Those Who Wait It is so refreshing to encounter a jazz ensemble who sounds as if they'd get along…
I mean, damn, but do the quartet OddAtlas know how to make a melody simmer into a slow burn. And it’s not the heat generated that forges the connection, but the hypnotic effect of the melody’s flickering light. It transfixes the same whether the song smolders or shines bright. …
Dec 25 2017
Best of 2017 #19: Sam Bardfeld – “The Great Enthusiasms” (BJU Records)
Music from NYC.
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These are videos that I like: Best of Bandcamp Jazz 2017 (Part Two)
Today’s videos feature ensembles that were among my monthly selections for Best of Bandcamp Jazz. 2017 saw a minimum of 120 recommendations, so it’s understandable that some might have fallen off the radar over the course of the year. Here’s a chance to reverse that trend and remind everyone…
In "These are videos that I like"
Recapping the Best of 2011 (Part 3): Will Collier Septet, Joel Harrison String Choir, Tin/Bag and Adam Baldych
Recapping the Best of 2011, featuring: Will Collier Septet, Joel Harrison String Choir, Tin/Bag (Kris Tyner & Mike Baggetta), and Adam Baldych Damage Control. ***** Will Collier Septet - Those Who Wait It is so refreshing to encounter a jazz ensemble who sounds as if they'd get along…
In "Jazz Recommendations"
Best of 2018 #34: OddAtlas – “OddAtlas”
I mean, damn, but do the quartet OddAtlas know how to make a melody simmer into a slow burn. And it’s not the heat generated that forges the connection, but the hypnotic effect of the melody’s flickering light. It transfixes the same whether the song smolders or shines bright. …
In "Recap: Best of 2018"
By davesumner • Recap: Best of 2017 • 0 • Tags: Brooklyn Jazz Underground Records, Jazz - Best of 2017, New York City, Sam Bardfeld