1.) Although I wasn't as surprised by Diana Krall's choice of material this second time seeing her, her re-working of Great American songbook standards in tonight's show was musically thrilling. Peak moments included her arrangement of All of Me for her trio, a mournful solo rendition of In the Wee Small Hours of the Morning, and the encore, a straightforward, moving version of the Brian Wilson classic In My Room.
2.) On Wednesday, thanks to a tip from a friend, I was newly exposed to Marel Hidalgo, a ludicrously gifted teenage jazz guitarist. His live show - with a talented trio supporting him - featured two generous sets, the first showcasing the music of jazz giant Horace Silver, the second a vibrant reggae-flavored mix with original music and imaginative interpretations of a few jazz standards. Check out Hidalgo's reel via the YouTube link directly below.
3.) Two nights before that, I attended an open jazz jam session, something I've been doing on and off for a while. After one song, feeling moderately pleased with what I'd played, I left the bandstand. Then I spent the next 90 minutes listening to this music I've come to revere, enjoying most of what I heard, including the work of two other guitarists. I tried not to compare my playing to theirs and was partially successful. Despite my lapse, in the end, I was pleased that I put myself out there, again.
What have been some recent musical highlights of yours?
Hey Pat. Sounds like a pretty good week. Diana Krall's voice is enough to take my mind off whatever might be troubling it at any given time. I've not had the pleasure of seeing her in concert but I hope to rectify that soon.
ReplyDeleteMarel Hidalgo has now been added to my favorites list on You Tube. Amazing. I like the slight fascial expressions when he's playing certain parts of a song. Nothing too much, just enough. As it is with his wonderful playing.
And lastly - two parts - I love going to listen to different types of guitarists and their choices for that evening or concert. It's enjoyable and it's also encouraging. Although I have to keep reminding myself that I have to crawl before I'm running in a marathon. But at the same time it's not too difficult to convince myself of that. And part two - good for you. Sometimes all it takes is one song.
Be well,
Bob