By Don Heckman Karen Lovely. Yes, it’s a real name, and don’t forget it. She may not have very high visibility yet. But if there’s any justice (which is always questionable, of course) she’ll soon be achieving a stronger presence on the music world viewscreen. Lovely’s performance at Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. Tuesday night was one… Read More Live Music: Karen Lovely at Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.
By Don Heckman Los Angeles – Aug. 31. (Tues.) The Karen Lovely Band. Rising vocal star Lovely is applying her powerful singing to classic blues, richly investing the styles of the ’30s and ’40s — Ma Rainey, Bessie Smith, etc. — with her uniquely contemporary perspective. Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400. – Aug. 31.… Read More Picks of the Week: Aug. 30 – Sept. 5
By Don Heckman Studio City CA. Jackie Ryan’s appearance at Vitello’s Monday night was one of the most musically gripping performances of recent memory. Listening to her two extended sets of songs before an enthusiastic, packed house crowd, I found myself wishing that the entire evening had been videotaped. Why? In part for the pleasure… Read More Live Jazz: Jackie Ryan at Vitello’s
By Don Heckman Los Angeles – Sept 19. (Wed.) Catharine Russell. Her resume includes gigs and recordings with the likes of Paul Simon, Steely Dan, David Bowie, Michael Feinstein. But she’s very much the “real thing” according to critic Nat Hentoff. And why not? Her father, pianist Luis Russell, was Louis Armstrong’s music director. Catalina… Read More Picks of the Week: Sept. 18 – 23
By Michael Katz The first day of the Playboy Jazz Festival on Saturday presented a panoply of talented musicians to blow away the persistent marine layer that had enveloped the Hollywood Bowl, providing a joyful party for all. At the same time it caused one to think about the relationship between musicianship and showmanship, and… Read More The Playboy Jazz Festival (Saturday) at the Hollywood Bowl
By Roger Crane Brigadoon is a classic musical with book and lyrics by Alan Jay Lerner and music by Frederick Loewe. Songs from the score, such as “Heather on the Hill” and “Almost Like Being in Love,” have become standards. The latter song has been embraced by many jazz performers, as well. The musical tells… Read More Live Theatre: “Brigadoon” by the Fullerton Civic Light Opera
The International Review of Music 