Watford Jazz Junction: Recent Episodes
Chris Newstead
Weekly jazz chat exploring the personal stories and creative junctions of fabulous and funny musical guests. We produce the Watford Jazz Junction festival (May 19-22 May 2022) based in the UK.
This week we're talking with creative musical supremo Alice Zawadzki - an astonishing singer, violinist and composer.
We explore her journey into music via the influences of New Orleans and music colleges, her approach to creativity and reflections on the natural world, and her unbridled and broad appetite for music in all its forms and types.
Obviously, there's an extra special quiz, additions to the fantasy house band, and some cracking musical recommendations.
Alice's album recommendations included:
Faint by Taylor Deupree (2012) on Norman Records
JS Bach: ThreeOrOne by Fred Thomas, Aisha Orazbayeva & Lucy Railton (2021) on ECM
El Hal/The Feeling by Electric Jalaba (2021) on Strut Records
Support the show & buy us a coffee!
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed!
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Links
Keep up to date with Alice here: www.alicezmusic.com
Keep up to date with the Watford Jazz Junction here (and to buy tickets for our festival 19-22 May 2022): www.watfordjazzjunction.com
Credits
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded March 2022.
This week we're talking with Mark Armstrong - trumpeter, composer, arranger and artistic director of the National Youth Jazz Orchestra.
We discover all sorts from tales, from dusty old trumpet shops in to dodgy student band names, from fabulous young NYJO musicians to awesome players in the world's greatest bands - it's a musical big band treat!
Mark's album recommendations included:
Cookin' and Relaxin' (double disc) by Miles Davis (1958) on Prestige
Coming About by Maria Schneider (1996) on Enja
Plugged In and Live by Earth, Wind & Fire (1996) on Pyramid
Support the show!
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed!
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Next episode
And just a reminder that our next episode won't come out now until March 2022. Plenty of time to catch-up with the back catalogue... :-)
Links
Keep up to date with NYJO here.
Keep up with Mark here.
Credits
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded February 2022.
This week we're joined by the super talented and very interesting Alex Webb - pianist, composer, arranger and serial collaborator.
We chat about his fabulous new album British Standard Time featuring Jo Harrop, Carroll Thompson, Luca Manning and Tony Momrelle, reflect on the jazz scene in the UK in some depth and explore all the motivations behind continuing to write and create.
It's a beaut!
- Alex's album recommendations, include:
- Songs in the Key of Life by Stevie Wonder (1976) released on Tamla
- Miles Ahead by Miles Davis (1957) released on Columbia
- The Audience with Betty Carter (1980) released on Betcar; Verve
Support the show!
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed!
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Links
Keep up to date with Alex via his website here.
Credits
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded January 2022.
This week we're in conversation with Jess Gillam MBE, presenter of the This Classical Life Podcast as well as being a hugely talented saxophonist and awesome performer.
We chat about all sorts including her musical pathways into professional life, her influences, and her reflections on the importance of music for mental wellbeing.
Oh, and we discuss the critical issues of Marmite or marmalade, greatest Abba songs, and cope with the jaw dropping revelation of which instrument Jess would drop from a symphony orchestra...
Jess's album recommendations include:
Blackstar by David Bowie (2016) released on Columbia/Sony.
What's Going On by Marvin Gaye (1971) released on Tamla
Dummy by Portishead (1994) released on Go! Beat
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed!
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Links
For more information about Jess check out: https://www.jessgillamsax.co.uk/
And listen to her This Classical Life podcast via BBC Sounds or click here.
Credits
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded December 2021.
This week we're joined by Tara Minton and Ed Babar to find out more about their new album, 'Two for the Road'.
We chat about all sorts including Tara's musical journey from Australia to the UK, the influence of early education on Ed, and learn why Lithuania and The Netherlands are go to jazz countries!
Their album recommendations include:
- Blue by Joni Mitchell (1971) released on Reprise
- The Clown by Charles Mingus (1957) released on Atlantic
- Music for Large & Small Ensembles by Kenny Wheeler (1990) released on ECM
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed!
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Links
For more information about Tara and Ed's work, including to buy their album, check out Tara's website at: http://taraminton.com/
Credits
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded December 2021.
We launch 2022 and Series 9 of the WJJ Podcast in conversation with UK saxophonist Dave O'Higgins.
We talk about his journey into music, the influences on route, and the people he's played with and those he continues to create with, having come through the jazz scene of the 1980s playing alongside Mark Nightingale and Gerard Presencer to forming new partnerships today with Rob Luft and leading his own Quartet.
Dave's album recommendations include:
Go! by Dexter Gordon (1962) released on Blue Note
Blue Train by John Coltrane (1958) released on Blue Note
Led Zeppelin IV by Led Zeppelin (1971) released on Atlantic
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed!
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded December 2021.
We round off 2021 with a hugely enjoyable conversation with celebrated cellist, singer & composer Ayanna Witter-Johnson.
We talk about playing on the big stage, balancing musical interests, and all the many influences that have made Ayanna such an original and in-demand musician.
Ayanna's album choices include:
Africa to America: The Journey of the Drum by Sounds of Blackness (1994) released on Perspective
Innervisions by Stevie Wonder (1973) released on Tamla
To Pimp A Butterfly by Kendrick Lamar (2015) released on AME, Aftermath & Interscope
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed!
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded December 2021.
In our penultimate episode of 2021 we chat with Barney Stevenson, who's the artistic director of the Marsden Jazz Festival based in Yorkshire, England.
Soon to celebrate 30 years, we chat about how the festival survived lock-down and invented some new online offerings, how their audience has developed over the years, and how they've supported new musicians and promoted new music.
Barney's album recommendations include:
New Bottle Old Wine by Gil Evans (1958) released on World Pacific
Belonging by Keith Jarrett (1974) released on ECM
Notes with Attachments by Blake Mills & Pino Palladino (2021) released on Impulse!
For more info about the Marsden Jazz Festival check out their website at: https://www.marsdenjazzfestival.com/ where you'll also find a link to their fabulous podcast.
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed!
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded November 2021.
A festive podcast journey aboard our star-packed Polar Jazz Express as we travel through the snow-capped highlands of Watford to a little place called ‘Jazzmas’.
We’re joined by jazzman & sax player to the stars Ben Castle, Tomorrow’s Warrior & all-round sparkling jazz legend Camilla George, super classy classical soprano Lotti Newstead, & shimmering YouTube prog rocker Jim Newstead.
We programme the Cab Cabaret Fantasy Stage as presented by the fabulous Ray Gelato, deliver much punning & cunning in choosing the world’s greatest festive jazz candy, generously share live performances a plenty (but sadly only on kazoos), enter into a deep-dive discussion on how to handle the triple appearance of mince-pies, Christmas pudding & Christmas cake, and undertake the loading of Stanta Getz’s iPod
There are also LOADS of special listener Christmas prizes with some awesome jazz swag giveaways plucked from the very top of Stanta’s sleigh.
Thank yous
Our thanks to Ray, to Serious & the EFG London Jazz Festival & London’s 606 Club for their awesome prizes.
Also note, the original recording of this podcast which was available until 5 January 2022 included a beautiful reading from Cerys Matthews, which has now been removed as our licence to share the lyrics of Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas was limited to just one month. A huge thank you to Cerys - it was a cracker!
Support
You can support the podcast by buying us a coffee (or mince pie!) at https://www.buymeacoffee.com/chrisnewstead
Competition
To enter our prize draw give-away please email jazzwatfordlive@gmail.com with the subject title ‘Festive Swag’. The competition deadline is 12pm GMT 6 January 2022, when winners will be drawn. There are no cash alternatives, no travel is included & there is only one entry permitted per email address. Good luck!
Show deets & licensing
Presenter Chris Newstead.
Recorded December 2021.
Theme music & 'Jingle Bells Jazz Christmas' music licensed through AudioJungle.
Canine Christmas bell tinkling by Teddy Newstead (The First).
All other incidental music/effects by Chris Newstead.
Watford Jazz Junction
Tickets for the Watford Jazz Junction music festival 19-22 May 2022 are on sale only at www.watfordjazzjunction.com. The line-up includes Emma Smith, Shri Sriram feat. Dennis Rollins, NYJO feat. Tim Garland, Archipelago, Samuel Sharp, Jelly Cleaver, Tomorrow’s Warriors & John Etheridge.
Guest web links
www.watfordjazzjunction.com
www.charlottenewstead.co.uk
www.bencastle.com
www.camillageorge.com
www.youtube.com/jimnewstead
www.raygelato.com
www.cerysmatthews.co.uk
Happy Holidays y’all. Stay safe and always remember to connect with something new. 😊
In this week's bumper episode we take the time out to talk with Anthony Kerr, professor of jazz vibraphone at the Royal College of Music, and a long time vibist on the world jazz scene.
We explore the importance of mental and physical well-being for musicians, the conditions for a perfect jazz gig, the Belfast, Dublin, New York and London jazz scenes, and take in a full 101 on the evolution of the vibes. It's super interesting!
Anthony's album recommendations include:
- Transition by John Coltrane (1965) released on Impulse!
- The Art of the Trio by Brad Mehldau (1997) released on Warner Bros
- Here's to Life by Shirley Horn (1992) released on Verve
Keep up to date with Anthony at his website: www.anthonykerrvibes.com
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed!
https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded November 2021.
Unc D (musicians Dante Basista & Danny Svenson) are an Ohio-based remix and production team who've seen a huge growth of interest across the last 18 months in their jazz-heavy tracks, influenced by the London scene.
We chat about how UK jazz releases of the last 5 years (especially the work of Kamaal Williams and Brownswood Recordings) are so important to their music, garage-sized jazz production, and how their work has been gathering popularity, particularly on Spotify.
There's some tinkering to our house-band, remixes to the max in our weekly quiz, and the delivery of the classic line, "I try to use excessive keyboards at all times". Word.
Dante and Danny's album choices included:
- Age of Adz by Sufjan Stevens (2010) released on Asthmatic Kitty
- Welcome to the Hills by the Yussef Dayes Trio (2020) released on Cashmere Thoughts
- Expensive Sh*t by Fela Kuti (1975) released on Sounds Workshop & Editions Makossa in the US
Tracks mentioned in this week's remix quiz are:
- Björk: 'Human Behaviour' remixed by Underworld
- Midlake: 'Roscoe' remixed by Beyond the Wizards Sleeve
- Tori Amos: ‘Professional Widow’ remixed by Armand’s Star Trunk Funkin’ Mix
- Florence & The Machine: ‘You’ve Got The Love’ remixed by The xx
- Grace Jones: ‘Williams’ Blood’ remixed by Aeroplane
- M.I.A.: ‘Paper Planes’ remixed by DFA
- Blur: ‘Movin’ On’ remixed by William Orbit
- Goldie: ‘Inner City Life' remixed by Roni Size & DJ Krust
- Missy Elliot: ‘Get Your Freak On’ remixed by Jacknife Lee
- Gorillaz: ‘DARE’ remixed by DFA remix
To hear tracks from Unc D check their Spotify.
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Show info
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded November 2021.
In our first crossing to India, we have a fabulous conversation with the talented and entertaining musicians behind the Indian world/jazz fusion band, MoonArra.
Jagadeesh (guitar) and Madhuri (singer & songwriter) share their outlook of the Bangalore (Bengaluru) music scene, talk about the evolution of the band, and playing festivals the world over.
We talk about the power and importance of collaborations, International Jazz Day and critically make a double-addition to our fantasy house-band! :-)
Among their album recommendations, Jagadeesh & Madhuri recommend:
- Night at the Opera by Queen (1975) released on EMI
- Moonsung by Sheila Chandra (1999) released on Real World Records
- Salt Rain by Susheela Raman (2001) released on Narada
For more information about MoonArra visit their website: http://www.moonarra.com/
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Show info
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded November 2021.
As you'd expect in the company of Ray Gelato, this is an extremely entertaining episode to conclude the current series.
We chat about rhythm & blues, finding your chops in the company of great recordings from the past, and understanding what it is to perform and entertain whilst still being yourself.
We talk about lots of the great tenor players from history, what it takes to be a Giant in Ray's band, and get a full account of what a truly great night out in Soho looks like!
Ray's album choices include:
- Swing's the Thing by Illilnois Jacquet (1956) released on Clef
- The Wildest Show at Tahoe by Louis Prima (1957) released on Capitol
- Songs for Swingin' Lovers by Frank Sinatra (1956) released on Capitol
Check out Ray's website at https://www.raygelato.com/
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Show info
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded October 2021.
We're still celebrating our first year anniversary as part of this fabulously entertaining and giggly conversation with pianist Zoe Rahman.
We talk about all her educational stepping stones, influences and people that played a part in crafting her sound from Julian Joseph to Joanne Brackeen.
We also talk about her latest award-winning composition working with her local primary school that led to Jamie Cullum donating a grand piano, and with the school set to become the latest jazz venue as part of this year's EFG London Jazz Festival.
Zoe's album choices include:
- The Three Americas by Eliane Elias (1996) released on Blue Note
- Keith Jarrett Live at the Blue Note, complete 6-disc box set (and a bit of a cheat by Zoe!) (1996) released on ECM
- Every album by Alice Coltrane (and a massive cheat by Zoe!!) (1968-2006)
Zoe's website: https://www.zoerahman.com/
Zoe performs live at Frith Manor Primary School in Mill Hill as part of the EFG London Jazz Festival on Sunday 21 November 2021: https://efglondonjazzfestival.org.uk/events/zoe-rahman-trio
And here's the back-story to that piano: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=za0kdDoZmuI
Anniversary competition
To enter our 1 Year Anniversary draw, just email jazzwatfordlive@gmail.com with the subject title "WJJ Pocast is 1".
Winners will be chosen from a random draw after the deadline at midday (GMT) on 1 December 2021. No cash alternatives are available and no travel is included. Post & package is included. Our first prize is a WJJ T Shirt, a WJJ Baseball Cap & 2 tickets to our Tony Kofi show on 12 February 2022 in Watford. 4 runners up will all win WJJ Baseball Caps. Good luck!
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Show info
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded October 2021.
The WJJ Podcast turns 1-year old this week, and we celebrate in conversation with the hugely talented, funny and thoughtful pianist & composer Elliot Galvin.
A long-time member of 2020 Mercury nominated jazz super-group Dinosaur, leader of his own trio and player in many other groups, Elliot talks about his journey into jazz, his relationship with the piano and his approach to composition.
It might also be the first (& last!) time we manage to bring Noam Chomsky, Beyonce, David Lynch and Harold Pinter into our conversation!
Elliott's album recommendations include:
- Gorillaz by Gorillaz (2001) released on Parlophone
- Kind of Blue by Miles Davis (1959) released on Columbia
- Trout Mask Replica by Captain Beefheart & His Magic Band (1969) released on Straight
Elliot will be performing as part of the EFG London Jazz Festival on Wednesday 17 November 2021. More details here.
Anniversary competition
To enter our 1 Year Anniversary competition, just email jazzwatfordlive@gmail.com with the subject title "WJJ Pocast is 1".
Winners will be chosen from a random draw after the deadline at midday (GMT) on 1 December 2021. No cash alternatives are available and no travel is included. Post & package is included. Our first prize is a WJJ T Shirt (as shown by Elliot in the photo!), a WJJ Baseball Cap & 2 tickets to our Tony Kofi show on 12 February 2022 in Watford. 4 runners up will all win WJJ Baseball Caps. Good luck!
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Show info
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded October 2021.
In this week's episode we talk with pianist Greg Foat about his musical influences, his journey into jazz and his reflections on the current UK jazz scene.
We discuss growing up on the Isle of Wight, his extensive record collection and his approach to working with other musicians and creating great collaborations.
Plus there's a bonus appearance by our youngest ever guest!
Greg's album choices include:
- Gyroscope by Gordon Beck (1969) released on Morgan
- Remember of Love by Masuru Imada (1979) released on Three Blind Mice
- Flare Up by Harry Beckett (1970) released on Philips
Greg will be performing as part of the EFG London Jazz Festival on Sunday 14 November. 2021. More details here.
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Show info
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded October 2021.
In this week’s episode we chat with the fabulous singer and songwriter Jo Harrop.
We chat about her new album 'The Heart Wants', working with Christian McBride, being feted by Iggy Pop, playing on the London scene, and responding to the joys and pains of life through song-writing.
There’s lots of laughs, some deep dives into the healing power of music, an exceptionally complex quiz(o), and some great album recommendations including:
Sweet Bitter Love by Aretha Franklin (1967) released on Sony
Sarah Vaughan (with Clifford Brown) by Sarah Vaughan (1955) released on EmArcy
Every song ever by Tom Waits (what a big cheat by Jo!)
Jo's website: www.joharrop.com/
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Show info
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded October 2021.
In this week’s episode we chat with the very talented pianist, composer and arranger Paul Edis.
We chat about his latest album "The Still Point of the Turning World", his creative processes when working within classical and jazz genres, and who he turns to for support as a musician and a creator.
There’s of course a very taxing quiz(!), an evolution within our fantasy house band, and some fabulous album recommendations that even made the host’s hairs stand up on his arms, including:
Night Train by Oscar Peterson (1963) released on Verve
Kind of Blue by Miles Davis (1959) released on Columbia
Solo Monk by Thelonius Monk (1965) released on Columbia
Paul's website: www.pauledis.co.uk
Paul on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/PaulEdisMusician
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Show info
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded October 2021.
In this week's episode with chat with Italian-born singer Irene Serra.
She shares more about her journey to the UK via Copenhagen and Milan, settling in to jazz life in Hackney, developing her fabulous band ISQ and her creative influences including dance.
We discuss her upcoming album, remixing and listening to music and of course there's a quiz, top 3 album choices and a vocal addition to the house band. It's a lovely chat all round!
Irene's album recommendations include:
- Piano and A Microphone 1983 by Prince (2018) released by NPG/Warner Bros
- After Hours by Sarah Vaughan (1961) released on Roulette
- Post (1995) and Homogenic (1997) by Björk, both released on One Little Indian
Irene's website: www.irenaserra.com
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Show info
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded September 2021.
In this week's episode, Chris is joined by his lovely siblings Lotti and Jim.
Lotti is a concert soprano & music appreciation tutor; Jim is a rock drummer and online music reviewer.
We all 3 pick a different album to share and contrast as we reflect on musical spiritualism across the contrasting worlds of classical, rock and jazz music. There's also a very exciting hooter!
Our featured albums are:
- Lateralus by Tool (2001) released on Volcano
- The 5th Symphony by Jean Sibelius - recommending Sir John Barbirolli's 1962 recording of Symphonies Nos. 2 & 5 with the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra & Halle Orchestra (2008) released on Testament
- Finding Gabriel by Brad Mehldau (2019) released on Nonesuch
Lotti's website: www.charlottenewstead.co.uk
Jim's channel: www.youtube.com/beatsworking2012
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Show info
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded September 2021.
Visit out website at www.watfordjazzjunction.com where you can also buy tickets to see our shows!
This week the singer and composer Esther Bennett talks with us about her journey through jazz in the UK across the last 30+ years.
She shares stories about her musical evolution in Birmingham and then onto the scene in 1980's London. She talks passionately about her musical relationship with the late Duncan Lamont, and some of the hurdles she's faced as a woman in jazz.
There are lots of funny and poignant moments, a daft quiz, and some wonderful album recommendations, including:
- Swingin' Easy by Sarah Vaughan (1957) released on EmArcy
- Blues and the Abstract Truth by Oliver Nelson (1961) released on Impulse!
- Flirting with Twilight by Kurt Elling (2001) released on Blue Note
Esther's website: www.estherbennettmusic.com
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Show info
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded August 2021.
This week's guest in pianist, writer and all round music-man, Chris Ingham.
We chat about his writing gigs with MOJO and interviewing Paul Simon, researching the songbooks of Hoagy Carmichael and Gil Evans, and of course, his October 2021 gig in Watford shining a light on the jazz of the brilliant Dudley Moore.
We also find time to explore the influence of Prefab Sprout, the genius of Benny Green and the struggles of being 'musically dyslexic'.
Chris's album recommendations include:
- A Jazz Portrait of Frank Sinatra by Oscar Peterson (1959) released on Verve
- Chet Baker Sings by Chet Baker (1954) released on Pacific Jazz Records
- The Dave Frishberg Songbook Volume 1 by Dave Frishberg (1981) released on Omni Sound Jazz
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Show info
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded August 2021.
Chris is joined by Mauritian singer and composer Rouhangeze for a fascinating conversation about her musical path from an Indian Ocean island to Europe.
We chat about her creative partnerships with Tomasz Bura and Linley Marthe and her 5-year journey to write, record and produce her new upcoming album 'evasio'.
We explore the spiritual dimensions of her music and still find time to consider Chris Potter's piano skills, Moogs and fish curry!
Rouhangeze's album recommendations include:
- I Took Up The Runes by Jan Garbarek (1990) released on ECM
- Slave to the Rhythm by Grace Jones (1985) released on Manhattan, Island
- Passages by Ravi Shankar and Philip Glass (1990) released on Private Music
Find out more about Rouhangeze at www.rouhangeze.com/
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Show info
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded August 2021.
Series 6 kicks off chatting with the acclaimed and hugely talented pianist and composer Fergus McCreadie.
We chat about the ever-potent influence of the natural world and his musical journeys around creating his 2 highly successful albums.
Plus there's a very special Scottish-themed quiz, and a review of our ever challenging fantasy house-band!
Album recommendations include:
- The Vienna Concert by Keith Jarrett (1991) released on ECM
- 80/81 by Pat Metheny (1980) released on ECM
- The Gloaming (self-titled) (2014) released on Real World Records
Cairn (2021) and Turas (2018) by Fergus McCreadie
Plus a link to the wonderful book The Living Mountain by Nan Shephard
Find out more about Fergus at www.fergusmccreadie.co.uk
Support
You can help support the podcast and keep us ad free. Especially useful if you’d like to support the podcast and want to keep it ad free. Plus it makes Chris feel very happy indeed! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ChrisNewstead
Show info
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded July 2021.
In our series 5 finale, we're joined by composer, producer and uncategorisable musician Shri Sriram.
We chat about the value placed on music by society. We chat about bridging the music of India and the rest of the world. We chat about drum n bass, "jazz", classical music, jamming, not being able to read Western music, the inspiration of the Himalayas and so much more.
He also shares one of the most amazing jazz stories we've ever heard as 19-year old Shri finds himself sitting down with Alice Coltrane and then being 'stuck' on stage with Al Jarreau with just a bass, a mic and an expectant audience!
Album recommendations include:
The Letter by Shri (2020) released on Jazzland
Signs by Badmarsh and Shri (2001) released on Outcaste Records
The Inner Mounting Flame by The Mahavishnu Orchestra (1971) released on Columbia
Who's To Know by L Shankar (1981) released on ECM Records
Machine Head by Deep Purple (1972) released on Purple
Find out more about Shri at www.shri.co.uk
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Recorded July 2021.
In this episode, Chris is joined by soprano singer Charlotte Newstead for a ranging discussion around improvisation and performance.
Comparing and contrasting the experiences of the classical world and the jazz world they explore the influence of JS Bach and Charlie Parker, tackle the risks of musical freedom & musical exactness, and generally have a good giggle!
Find out more about Charlotte at www.charlottenewstead.co.uk
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Presenter: Chris Newstead
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Recorded June 2021.
Georgina Jackson joins us for a very energised chat about jazz life in Watford and on the high seas!
There's chat about flugel horns, making it in a big band, combining trumpeting and singing, leading your own band and ultimately enjoying what you do.
There's another tremendous top ten quiz challenge, fantasy house band review (sorry James Morrison - it was her, not me!) and insights into her career and influences.
Georgina's Top 3 Album recommendations include:
- It Might As Well Be Swing by Frank Sinatra & Count Basie (1964) released on Reprise
- The Complete Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong on Verve (originally released 1956-58) released on Verve in 1997
- Here's to Life by Shirley Horn (1992) released on Verve
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Presenter: Chris Newstead
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Recorded June 2021.
Luca Manning is this week's special guest.
A Glaswegian born singer of growing renown we talk about his journey into jazz via soul, singing with NYJO, developing his style with Fergus McCreadie, playing at Ronnie Scott's and finding his feet on the UK jazz scene.
He also fearlessly faces our inaugural Glasgow's Miles Better & Stars of Scottish Jazz Hot Question Frenzy Quiz Special and introduces a writing element to the house band.
Luca's album recommendations include:
- grae by Moses Sumney (2020), released on Jagjaguwar
- Once to Every Heart by Mark Murphy (2005), released on Verve
- Lianne La Havas by Lianne La Havas (2020), released on Warner
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Presenter: Chris Newstead
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Recorded June 2021.
In this very entertaining episode, Chris in joined by Steve Rubie, owner of the 606 Club in London.
As a programmer, a promoter, musician and one-time chef, Steve looks back across a 40-year career running Chelsea's most famous club. He talks about mentoring Ronnie Scott gave him in the early days and reflects on loads of wonderful musicians who've played at his club over the years.
He also bravely takes on our culinary-jazz quiz, picking dishes to please the palettes of some of the world's true legends.
Amongst lots of album references, Steve recommends:
- Under Milk Wood by Stan Tracey (1965) released on Columbia
- The entire Charlie Parker back catalogue(!!)
- Flute and Nut by Harold McNair (1970) released on RCA
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Presenter: Chris Newstead
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Recorded May 2021.
Chris chats with sitar supremo and composer Jasdeep Singh Degun about all his musical junctions across Indian classical music, classical music, rock and, of course, jazz.
Jasdeep talks about the complexities of collaboration, the heritage of the sitar and its place in the Indian classical music canon, the role of philosophy in his musical approach, and explains more about his current compositions.
We also undertake our inaugural 'Ravi or Not Hear I Strum' mega quiz challenge. Of course.
His album recommendations include:
Pure by Kaushiki Chakrabarty (2004) on Sense World Music
Rise by Anoushka Shankar (2005) on Angel Records
Immigrants Nitin Sawhney (2021) on Masterworks
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Presenter: Chris Newstead
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Recorded May 2021.
Chris chats with virtuoso jazz clarinetist Adrian Cox about all his many jazz and musical junctions.
Adrian talks about his early influences including the Pasadena Roof Orchestra through to his admiration of Edmond Hall. We also undertake our inaugural live clarinet Q&A!
Adrian is full of energy and great tales of jazz derring-do, the rights & wrongs of Spotify and why we should all be listening to trumpeter Tom Harold.
His album recommendations include:
- Jazz at Vespers by George Lewis (1954) on Fantasy
- Rumpus on Rampart Street by Edmond Hall (1959) on RAE Cox
- Ambassador Satch by Louis Armstrong and his All Stars (1956) on Columbia
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Presenter: Chris Newstead
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Recorded May 2021.
Chris is joined by free jazz improviser and bass player, John Pope.
We chat about John's influences from Ornette Coleman to the natural world, from Rage Against the Machine to The Blues Brothers. We get the inside track on the Newcastle and northern jazz scene and play an astonishing round of our new 'Bass Deluxe Fretted Finger Bamboozling Brain Buster' quiz challenge.
John edits our ever fantastic house-band and selects his top 3 albums of all time:
- Mingus at Antibes by Charles Mingus (1960) on Atlantic
- O'Neal's Porch by William Parker (2001) on AUM Fidelity
- The Shape of Jazz to Come by Ornette Coleman (1959) on Atlantic
There's also some chat about fabulous American author Don DeLillo. Chris recommends reading 'Silence' (2020).
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Presenter: Chris Newstead
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Recorded April 2021.
This week Chris is joined once again by his brother Jim Newstead.
It all gets quite deep(!) as we get embroiled around the edges of chaos theory, lose our way around Talking Heads and think more about the relationship of the composer and the musician with their audience.
As always there's plenty of jazz talk and discovery of new musical junctions.
Check out Jim Newstead on YouTube.
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Presenter: Chris Newstead
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Recorded April 2021.
In this bumper episode we chat with the legendary saxophonist & composer Tim Garland.
Grammy-winning and feted for his huge musical range, Tim has been a significant figure in world-wide jazz for many years.
We talk about his albums, his 2 decades of working with the late great Chick Corea, what it was like starting off his career playing alongside Ronnie Scott, and what his junctions have been in developing his own sounds and approach to jazz and music.
It's a rich and fascinating insight into the highs, and sometimes lows, of being a professional musician on the global scene.
Tim's album recommendations include:
- Native Sense - The New Duets by Chick Corea and Gary Burton (1997) on Concord
- From the Soul by Joe Lovano (1992) on Blue Note
- Coltrane's Sound by John Coltrane (1964) on Atlantic
And check out www.timgarland.com for more information about Tim and his Encounters Series of collaborative jazz performances.
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Presenter: Chris Newstead
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Additional sax: by Chris Newstead
Recorded April 2021 at the Oak Gable Studios, Herts
We continue season 4 with a hugely enjoyable chat in conversation with saxophonist Denys Baptiste.
A giant of the London jazz scene, Denys's sound is instantly recognised, along with his fantastic back catalogue of stellar albums.
We chat about musical progress and coming out of lockdown, saxes and bass clarinets, and his many junctions and influences. Plus(!), Denys boldly takes on our brand new St Lucia quiz mega challenge! If you don't know the delights of green figs and salt fish listen on...
Denys's album recommendations include:
- Way out West by Sonny Rollins (1957) on Contemporary
- A Love Supreme by John Coltrane (1965) on Impulse
- Maiden Voyage by Herbie Hancock (1965) on Blue Note
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Presenter: Chris Newstead
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Recorded April 2021
We start season 4 chatting with the very funny, talented and knowledgeable Anne Frankenstein.
Anne is a familiar voice on Jazz FM and a very popular live DJ, playing around London, the UK and worldwide.
We chat about the pressures and joys of presenting jazz to the world, tackle our exciting new '10 questions in 2 minutes' super feature(!), and as always discuss some fabulous music.
Anne's album recommendations include:
- Piano Solo: Melodies Africaines, Volume 2 by Manu Dibango (1984) on AfroVision Records
- Graceland by Paul Simon (1986) on Warner Bros.
- Small Change by Tom Waits (1976) on Asylum
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Presenter: Chris Newstead, www.watfordjazzjunction.com
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Recorded April 2021
The hugely talented and funny James Morrison joins us for our Season 3 finale.
A musical polymath and multi instrumentalist, James is well known to many from opening the 2000 Olympic Games, playing in the world's finest venues and hosting Top Gear Australia.
This hugely enjoyable conversation ranges from what is was like playing alongside Dizzy Gillespie to being a jazz nut in a fast car. We also ask the really important questions including what is the definite jazz ride and why he has yet to play at the Rifle Volunteer pub in Watford?!
ENJOY!
James's album recommendations include:
- Concert by the Sea by Erroll Garner (1955) released on Columbia
- Night Train by Oscar Peterson (1963) released on Verve
- The Greatest Trumpeter of Them All by Dizzy Gillespie (1958) released on Verve
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Presenter: Chris Newstead, www.watfordjazzjunction.com
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Recorded March 2021.
This week Chris is joined by the wonderful Daniel Casimir: bassist, composer, producer and all round lovely person. There's a reason every one wants him in their band!
We chat about his journey, his latest compositions (watch out for the new album later in 2021) and working with the current cream of the crop across the London jazz scene.
He plays a blinder in adding a surprise musician to our ever dreamy house band, and doubles down on Wayne Shorter album recommendations:
- The Soothsayer by Wayne Shorter (1965) released on Blue Note
- JuJu by Wayne Shorter (1999) released on EMI
- Notes with Attachment by Pino Palladino and Blake Mills (2021) released on Blake Mills Label JV
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Presenter: Chris Newstead, www.watfordjazzjunction.com
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Recorded March 2021.
In this genre-busting mid-season special, Chris is joined by his charming siblings: YouTube reviewer & musician Jim Newstead and classical soprano Charlotte Newstead.
They discuss the importance and relevance of musical genres, get to grips with the evolution of Western modern music, and compare and contrast opinions across their own specialist styles of rock, classical and jazz.
There's all sorts in this rather enjoyable musical natter!
More about Jim
More about Charlotte
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Presenter: Chris Newstead, www.watfordjazzjunction.com
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Recorded March 2021.
In this fantastic episode, singer-songwriter and guitarist Jelly Cleaver talks about jazz and her musical junctions.
A rising star on the London-scene, Jelly plays & writes with pared-back precision and beauty. We chat about her route into music, social activism and DIY punk (of course!).
Jelly's album choices include:
- Lady Sings the Blues by Billie Holiday (1956) on Verve
- Crescent by John Coltrane (1964) released on Impulse!
- Live at Sin-E by Jeff Buckley (1993) released on Columbia
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Presenter: Chris Newstead, www.watfordjazzjunction.com
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Recorded March 2021.
In this fabulous episode, sax player and clarinetist Ben Castle talks about his jazz journey and all the junctions en route.
A fount of great stories, Ben shares tales from his exceptional musical journey including meeting Stevie Wonder in Buckingham Palace (as you do), playing with scores of wonderful musicians from the worlds of jazz, pop and rock, and reveals all about that sensational viral clip featuring his dad Roy Castle dancing alongside Buddy Rich and Sammy Davis Jnr.
Ben's album choices include:
- A Love Supreme by John Coltrane (1965) released on Impulse!
- Mingus Ah Um by Charles Mingus (1959) released on Columbia
- Native Dancer by Wayne Shorter (1975) released on Columbia
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Presenter: Chris Newstead, www.watfordjazzjunction.com
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Recorded March 2021.
Photo of Ben by Alex Beldea
To launch Season 3, Chris is joined by saxophonist and MOBO-nominee Camilla George, to discuss her music, her journey into jazz, and her new 3rd album!
Camilla, who leads her own band, has also been an influential member of Tomorrow's Warriors, Jazz Jamaica, Venus Warriors and the Nu Civilisation Orchestra. She discusses her influences, helps Chris map out the current London jazz scene, and tells all about an infamous and traumatic recorder incident!
Camilla's album recommendations include:
- Songbook by Kenny Garrett (1997) released on Warner.
- Bar Talk (specifically Mr. JJ) by Jeff "Tain" Watts (2002) released on Sony.
- Sonny Side Up by Sonny Stitt (1957) released on UMG.
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Presenter: Chris Newstead, www.watfordjazzjunction.com
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Recorded March 2021.
Chris is joined by pianist James Pearson, to discuss his music and working life in the UK's most famous jazz club, with more famous name drops than the Jazz Junction has ever contended with!
In our series 2 finale, James, artistic director at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club, recounts tales of jazz derring do including the appearances at the club of Lady Gaga, Kylie Minogue, Wynton Marsalis and the Rev Jesse Jackson. There's comparison of the geniuses of Erroll Garner, Thelonius Monk, Oscar Peterson and Bill Evans; celebration of the joy of 78 records; and great insights into recording jazz.
James's album recommendations include:
- Night Train by Oscar Peterson (1963) released on Verve.
- Concert by the Sea by Erroll Garner (1955) released on Columbia.
- Live at the Village Vanguard by Bill Evans (1961) released on Riverside.
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Presenter: Chris Newstead, www.watfordjazzjunction.com
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Recorded February 2021.
Chris is joined by conductor Clark Rundell, to discuss his approach to music, working with many of the world's jazz greats and orchestras.
Clark, professor of conducting at the Royal Northern College of Music, is a versatile and globally-in-demand musician. Hear him talk about current projects with Esperanza Spalding & Wayne Shorter, what challenges a classical & jazz conductor faces, and what music makes him smile.
There's also a double-change to the house band!
Clark's album recommendations include:
- Joy Ryder by Wayne Shorter (1995) released on Columbia Records.
- Emily's D+Evolution by Ezperanza Spalding (2016) released on Concord Records.
- Finding Gabriel by Brad Mehldau (2017) released on Nonesuch.
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Presenter: Chris Newstead, www.watfordjazzjunction.com
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Closing music: South Rampart Street Parade performed by the Perennial Jazz Band, recorded live at the Royal Northern College of Music in 1992 as part of the Jazz in Education Festival; introduced by Clark Rundell. Line-up: Jonathan Lyons (trmb), Sam Taylor (alto), Matthew Beaumont (trmp), Chris Newstead (clr), Duncan Wyatt (drums), Clare Widdowson (bass), John Chapman (piano) and featuring Stan Barker.
Recorded February 2021.
Chris is joined by tenor sax player, composer and educator Dean Masser, to discuss his journey into jazz, reflections on improvisation, the influence of the great tenorists, really really listening to albums, and what it's like working on the UK scene.
Dean is one of the most in-demand tenor players in the UK and can be heard ('out of lockdown') in venues north and south of Watford! :-) He also teaches and supports the next generation of players.
Discover more about Dean, including how to book lessons and buy charts, at his website.
Dean's album recommendations include:
- The Cannonball Adderley Quintet in San Francisco (1959) released on Riverside
- Go! by Dexter Gordon (1962) released on Blue Note
- Newk's Time by Sonny Rollins (1959) released on Blue Note
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Presenter: Chris Newstead, www.watfordjazzjunction.com
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Recorded February 2021.
Chris is joined by musician and composer Eddie Parker, to discuss the creative & technical process in lock-down, musical influences, the role of the natural environment for wellness, Loose Tubes and all sorts of jazz en route.
Eddie's career as a flautist-extraordinaire has threaded a creative line between the classical and jazz worlds. He talks about collaboration, suggests not just one 'top-3 album list' but two(!), adds ukele to the house-band and solves a 30-year lyrical mystery for Chris.
Discover more of Eddie's music one Facebook and Bandcamp.
Eddie's album recommendations include:
List One:
- Gnu High by Kenny Wheeler (1975) released on ECM
- Out to Lunch by Eric Dolphy (1964) released on Blue Note
- Visions of the Emerald Beyond by the Mahavishnu Orchestra (1975) released on Columbia
List Two:
- Sinfonia by Luciano Berio (1969) released on Columbia Masterworks
- Red Bird by Trevor Wishart (1978) released on York Eletronic Studios
- Innervisions by Stevie Wonder (1973) released on Tamla
And Chris very much recommends:
- Open Letter by Loose Tubes (1988) released on EG
Presenter: Chris Newstead, www.watfordjazzjunction.com
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Additional music: excerpts from "The Secret Life of Trees" (featuring Eddie Parker & Simon Limbrick); "Stacatto" (composed & performed Eddie Parker).
Recorded February 2021.
Chris is joined by his brother, musician and composer Jim Newstead, to discuss mental wellness, great albums and the importance of listening to music.
Jim's YouTube channel has racked up hundreds of thousands of views across the last 3 years. Across this time Jim has received countless recommendations for tracks to review, including Snarky Puppy, Hiromi and Tigran Hamasyan mixed in amongst more heavy metal, prog rock and fusion than you can shake a studded-leather wrist band at.
Jim also reviews our house band. You'll have to listen to find out if Kajagoogoo really can have helped to evict Jaco Pastorius!
Jim's album recommendations include:
- Pungent Effulgent by Ozric Tentacles (1989) released on Madfish Records
- We Like It Here by Snarky Puppy (2018) released on Groundup Records
- Tres Caballeros by The Aristocrats (2015) released on BOING Music LLC
And Chris very much recommends reading:
- But Beautiful: A Book About Jazz by Geoff Dyer (1991)
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Presenter: Chris Newstead
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Recorded February 2021.
Chris is joined by jazz musician and composer, Faye MacCalman.
Faye shares her journey into jazz, explores free improvisation, explains her new compositions for BBC Sounds, rates the Lancaster Jazz Festival, chooses her 3 favourite albums of all time, and replaces a member of our house band! Wow!
Faye’s album listing includes:
- Clouds by Joni Mitchell (1969) on Reprise Records.
- Outward Bound by Eric Dolphy(196o) on New Jazz records.
- 12 Little Spells by Esperanza Spalding(2018) on Concord records.
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Presenter: Chris Newstead
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Photo of Faye by Victoria Wai.
Music: 'The Only One' and 'Music Is A Safe Place' by Faye MacCalman and both produced,mixed and mastered by Graham Dowdall. Available on BBC Sounds later in 2021.
Recorded January 2021.
Chris reviews 5 gigs held in the second half of this year's EFG London Jazz Festival (13-22 November 2020). Most of the gigs reviewed should still have their streams available to watch for free, linked from the LJF website.
Using a exceptionally complex and subtle scoring structure(!) Chris reflects on performances from Yazz Ahmed, Kansas Smitty's, Istanbul Psychedelic, Jerry and the Pelican System, and Abel Selaocoe.
This is the last episode in the current series. A new series will return in early 2021.
Album recommendations:
- Polyhymnia Remixed by Yazz Ahmed (2020) - Released by Yazz Ahmed.
- Things Happened Here by Kansas Smitty's (2020) - Released on K7.
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Presenter: Chris Newstead.
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Recorded 17 December 2020.
Chris reviews 4 gigs and a conversation that were held in the first half of this year's EFG London Jazz Festival (13-22 November 2020). All the gigs reviewed should still have their streams available to watch for free on the LJF website.
Using a complex scoring structure(!) Chris reflects on performances from Guy Barker's 'Jazz Voice', Jasdeep Singh Degun, Emile Parisien & Vincent Peirani, Harold López-Nussa and a powerful conversation between Kevin Le Gendre, Carleen Anderson and Orphy Robinson,
And since it was the presenters birthday when this podcast was recorded, there are a few (rarely to be repeated) clarinet interludes...
Look out for the next episode when we'll be in conversation with Faye MacCalman from free jazz specialists Archipelago.
No specific album recommendations but check out:
- Echo in the Bones by Renell Shaw (2020) - Prd. Renell Shaw. Available to watch on YouTube.
- Dread Beat an' Blood documentary (1979) - Dir. Franco Rossi. Available to watch from the BFI archives.
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Presenter: Chris Newstead.
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Recorded 19 November 2020.
Chris is joined by jazz singer extraordinaire, Emma Smith.
Emma discusses being a jazz musician during lockdown, her new album and her song Monogamy Blues (featured), singing at Ronnie Scott’s and performing with the Puppini Sisters, her love of Ella Fitzgerald, chooses her 3 favourite albums of all time, and replaces a member of our house band!
Emma’s album listing includes:
- Swings Schubert Alley by Mel Tormé(1960) Prd. Russell Garcia. Released on Verve.
- Presenting Joe Williams and Thad Jones/Mel Lewis Jazz Orchestra (1966) Released on Solid State Records.
- West Side Story by Oscar Peterson(1962) Prd. Norman Granz. Released on Verve.
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Presenter: Chris Newstead
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Additional music: Monogamy Blues by Emma Smith & Jamie Safir. Available now. Released by Wingsor Castle Records.
Recorded 14 November 2020.
Chris explores all the gigs that are available at this year's London Jazz Festival (13-22 November 2020) and makes his recommendations for shows and acts not to be missed in this online, streamed and digital extravaganza of jazz!
There are 'look outs' for so many great acts including Guy Barker's 'Jazz Voice', Tigran Hamasyan, Mornington Lockett, Jazz Plus Ensemble, Shabaka Hutchings, Tomorrow’s Warriors, Kevin Le Gendre, Carleen Anderson and Oprhy Robinson, Tina Edwards, Shri, Seed Ensemble, Glasshopper, Toni Kofi, Gary Crosby, Abel Selaocoe, Yazz Ahmed, Judi Jackson, Binker Golding and Baba ZuLa and İlhan Erşahin.
And if that's not enough there's also a tasty confectionery theme throughout!
Look out for the next episode when we'll be in conversation with some of the artists.
Recommended and selected album listing:
- Universal Beings by Makaya McCraven (2018). Prd. Makaya McCraven. Released on International Anthem.
- The Call Within by Tigran Hamasyan (2020). Released on Nonesuch.
- Istanbul Sessions (Solar Plexus) by İlhan Erşahin(2018). Released on Wrasse Records 000.
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Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded 10 November 2020.
Miles Ashton - sound director at Ronnie Scott's Jazz Club - looks back over a lifetime in live jazz.
His stories include Amy Winehouse's first ever gig in front of a live audience, being hired by Ronnie Scott & Pete King, and touring with Shri Sriram.
He also chooses the inaugural line-up for our podcast's fantasy house band!
Miles's album listing includes:
- The Nightfly by Donald Fagan (1982) Prd. Gary Katz. Released on Warner Bros.
- Heavy Weather by Weather Report (1977) Prd. Joe Zawinal, Jaco Pastorius, Wayne Shorter. Released on Colombia.
- The Atomic Mr Basie by Count Basie and his Orchestra (1958) Prd. Teddy Reig. Released on Roulette.
- Shadows and Light by Joni Mitchell (live album (1980). Prd. Joni Mitchell. Released on Asylum.
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Presenter: Chris Newstead
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Recorded 5 November 2020.
A look forward to the Watford Jazz Junction - a new festival of jazz and more - coming to Watford in 2021. We also discuss what else we'll cover in future episodes relating to jazz and lots of musical junctions.
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Show info
Presenter: Chris Newstead
Theme: by SoundWorkLab, licensed through AudioJungle.
Recorded 1 November 2020.