The Major Scale pays homage to the one of the most innovative artists America has ever produced, Cecil Taylor. As a bedrock of the avant-garde, Taylor’s output never looked back, progressing ever forward with originality and tenacity. Educator Matt Gorney joins us to discuss this idiosyncratic composer and share memories of the time his group, Civic Minded 5, booked Mr. Taylor for an unforgettable concert that is still talked about today.
According to Vanity Fair a new wave of jazz is in full bloom across the globe and Sam Friend is a key part of it. Somewhere between New York and New Orleans, Friend gathered a style that puts him at a crossroads of Randy Newman, Ben Sidran, and Mose Allison. Vocal, quirky, reflective, his unique sound is best heard to be appreciated..
SONG CREDITS FOR THIS EPISODE:
THEME: Jazz Phantom by Chomsk’ (from the album “Different Beats” on Magentic Records).
FIRST HALF: Excursion On A Wobbly Rail (from the album “Looking Ahead” on Contemporary Records)
Live Improvisation 2000 Rollins College/Rogers Building by Cecil Taylor (from the Civic Minded 5 concert)
3 Phasis by Cecil Taylor (from the album “3 Phasis” on New World Records)
Mixed by Gil Evans w/ Cecil Taylor (from the album “Into the Hot” on Impulse Records)
SECOND HALF: Show Your Face, Would You Save My Life, Settle Down, Rhythm Or Rhyme, and Here We Go Again b y Sam Friend (from the album “Twins” on Sam Friend Music)