Taking a moment to give Thanks...

Its pretty obvious that we're all knee-deep into fall to some capacity: Whether its raking leaves, watching football, or finding the perfect pumpkin, we transform into harvest mode and prepare for the upcoming winter. While I'm not a fan of raking leaves, I am thankful for living in a city that has seasons. Sure, I fantasize about the Carribbean when its 12 degrees here, but to take permanent residence in such a place could be visually one-dimensional. Here in the Queen City, we're able to bear witness to nature recycling itself each year, with each passing season.

Let's take a tip from nature and recycle the love of jazz music. This can be easily done by sharing news of an upcoming show with a friend, a jazz CD, or even this newsletter. With just a little effort from many, so much can be accomplished.

The Jazz Half is very thankful for your continued support, and wishes the very best in the Thanksgiving holiday to you, your friends and family. Thank you for making The Jazz Half your resource for Jazz news in Cincinnati.

- jh

The 40th Anniversary of "Bitches Brew"

This year marks the 40th anniversary of one of the most pivotal releases in music history. Years after becoming one of the pioneers of Be Bop and Cool Jazz, Miles Davis began forging a path reflective of the evolving electric rock and funk sounds of the late 60's and early 70's. The resounding result: the double album "Bitches Brew", released in April 1970 on Columbia Records. The electric instruments used in the album were untraditional in jazz, and the arrangements yielded a sound that resulted in mixed, unpopular responses. Nonetheless, "Bitches Brew" sold more than half a million copies, earning Miles' first gold record.

It is in a true Artist's DNA to "stretch the canvas" - navigating their skill and expression as far to the edge without losing their identity, or compromising the authenticity of the art. Miles Davis navigated "Bitches Brew" by way of rock/funk-infused electric sounds, while preserving his jazz core; therefore ushering in the Jazz rock era of the early 70's.

Fourty years later, "Bitches Brew" comes to life again, with a special Legacy Edition available at Amazon.com. The Legacy Edition is a 3-disc set, with 2 CDs containing the original 94 minutes of music, plus several bonus cuts, and a DVD that contains a previously unissued concert performance by the Miles Davis Quintet (filmed in Copenhagen - November 1969). A truly wonderful addition to any jazz collection, AND a great holiday gift!

An awards show that would make you say "Shazam!"

Throughout the calendar year, Cincinnati Musicians and Vocalists perform in various Tri-State venues. In addition, thanks to the efforts of numerous organizations, Artists have the opportunity to perform in annual events such as MidPoint, World Music Fest, Its Commonly Jazz, and more.

On the evening of November 21st, our Queen City Musicians were recognized for their commitment and hard work at the 14th annual Cincinnati Entertainment Awards, held at the Madison in Covington. Awards were presented in 16 different categories. A big congratulations goes to the Faux Frenchmen for winning this year's award in the "Best Jazz" category. Congratulations to all the nominees on yet another wonderful and exciting evening in celebration of Cincinnati music!

- jh

The Jazz Half Recommends: Tierney Sutton - "Desire"

Hearing Tierney Sutton the first time makes you wish you've heard her long before. Her vocal style is elegant and unrippling; bringing shades of Shirley Horn to the mind's eye. Tierney has sang and performed throughout the world for years. She's taught Jazz Studies at the University of Southern California for 11 years, and chairs the Vocal Department at the Los Angeles Academy in Pasadena.

Tierney Sutton is a three-time Grammy Nominee, and leads the Tierney Sutton Band, featuring Christian Jacob on Piano, Trey Henry & Kevin Axt on Bass, and Ray Brinker on Drums. The band's latest release is "Desire" (2009), and contains a fair amount of standards, but The Jazz Half extends this recommendation to pay particular attention to "It's Alright with Me". This number is vocally interpreted with spice and class - an ironic combination. Visit Amazon or iTunes to download your copy of "Desire".

- jh