It’s no secret; records are in full-swing as a new generation adopts the format for its nostalgia and sound. So much focus is given to the industry kingpins that separating out what deserves a closer listen from the average major-label release means taking chances on newer labels or gambling on things entirely unfamiliar. Sam Records, a Parisian-based outfit specializing in jazz reissues is a great example of what happens when you strip out the accelerated production schedules of big-budget releases and replace quantity with quality. Continue Reading
Read More »-
Sam Records, Barney Wilen and Jazz Sur Seine
-
Laraaji: Celestial Music 1978 – 2001
New Age music inspires a specific kind of skeptical reaction in people. Unfortunately this genre of music finds itself associated with stereotypes that perpetuate negative perceptions. Yes, there are bad examples but no more than other genres. Beginning with anything new, I look at the prominent examples in order to find a genesis to begin further research. Laraaji, a perfect example of a pioneering musician, has been recently featured on a retrospective compilation from All Saints Records spanning 33 years of hard to find releases.
Read More »
Continue Reading -
Linda Perhacs: An Unlikely Legend
Earlier this year an unlikely legend resurfaced from obscurity releasing a follow-up to a long-time cult classic from 1970. I stumbled onto the music of Linda Perhacs accidentally through an audio sampler but this unlikely event had me purchasing two copies and sharing the album with a group of close friends who all, in turn, went out and bought the record as well. With a 43-year gap between albums, a direct connection to Phoenix and great sound, you might find yourself looking for a copy as well. Continue Reading
Read More » -
How Not to Miss Out on Limited Editions
Limited Edition. Two words that inspire a collectors lust for ownership of the rarest items. These pressings aren’t always easy to find and even knowing about them in time to have a chance to buy is difficult. Some are so underground you have to be connected to a select group of people to learn about them while others are announced via email, Twitter or Facebook. Finding information as it’s announced is the only way to increase the likelihood of ownership. There are a few tools you can use to funnel announcements into a single stream of music updates some of which you’re already familiar with. Continue Reading
Read More » -
Blue Note, Prestige Records Celebrate Anniversaries
Blue Note reissues keep pouring into stores as the prestigious label celebrates 75 years of recording and releasing dozens of venerable masterpieces. Not too far behind is Prestige, of possibly equal prominence among jazz collectors. Which label holds the upper-hand boils down to individual taste. The good news is that a variety of options are in store for every record buyer so you won’t have to splurge every month. For those that care to indulge, audiophile pressings and box sets are on the way.
Read More »
