As September draws to a close, let's go out on a positive note. These two performers are outside mainstream jazz, and definitely not smooth jazz, so hold on to your hats, and listen with open minds and ears. First up, James Blood Ulmer In and Out. I think of him as alternate universe Delta Blues filtered through the avent garde/free jazz prism. His music is down to earth, rough, but also sophisticated. You may not get it in the first listening, but keep trying. I remember when Ulmer was sighed to Columbia for three releasing, some wrong mind record PR execs tried to promote him as the next "Jimi Hendrix". That didn't fly at all. Ulmer music maybe hurt to label, but it will always be better than Smooth Jazz.
Next up, bassist Jamaaladeen Tacuma, The Best of.... This CD is a collection of his late 70's and early 80s recordings. Tacuma is also part of alternate Jazz fusion/avent-garde/"Black Rock" scene in New York City. He rose to prominence when the legendary Ornette Coleman choice him to join his harmolodic Prime Time group. Tacuma also played with on James Blood Ulmer's pre- Columbia recording Tales of Captain Black. This is adventurous and exciting music, not for the small-minded. Give it a try.
So, as September ends, I'm gearing up for Inktober, the daily prompt drawing event. I'm looking forward to it, and know I'll be listening to a lot music for inspiration. Enjoy.
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