Sunday, April 4, 2010
A Portland Sound?
The Jazz Society of Oregon had a somewhat interesting article about the possible need for some sort of label for the jazz music being made in Portland. While the Rose City certainly has a wonderful scene with fantastic musicians both young and old, I'm not sure it needs to be branded just yet. Our flourishing jazz community may be unique to the northwest, but I feel that our sound draws from many influences around the world. Mel Brown was a house drummer for Motown. Alan Jones has spent several years in Germany on top of touring Europe several times. Thara Memory was born in Florida. Ben Medler and Farnell Newton grew up on the east coast. The late Leroy Vinnegar first established himself in Los Angeles. Young players like John Nastos, Ben Darwish and Esperanza Spalding have been heavily influenced by all of these varied sounds and backgrounds. Is it a true, unique "Portland Jazz" sound? I wouldn't label it just yet.
Went to the Dookie Jam last Wednesday. Lets just say it was a blast and I'll be going back many more times. Show upcoming on Tuesday the 13th at Berbati's as part of the Soul'd Out Festival. Be sure to check it out, as we've added so much more since the last time you likely heard us, and the venue is great. We also have many other show's upcoming, so keep track of the Phunkestra at one of our pages.
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Agreed! I like how you tied in the history of the artists into this segment. Since I am (was)a drummer I knew a lot about the great Mel Brown growing up. However the rest of which you mentioned are all new to me. Thanks for the lesson teach!
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