Sunday Music Muse Day - Baden Powell, Snarky Puppy

This Sunday Music Muse Day finds us recovering from an extreme temperature swing, from a frigid  -5º on Saturday morning to a mild 47º at midday Sunday.  Whatever the weather, here are selections to warm your heart.  First up, Baden Powell Live in Berlin, a two CD set of a solo concert recorded in 2000.  The intimate nature of the concert lets the full beauty of this legendary master of Brazilian music surround you.  This collection is worth seeking out.

My next is selection is totally different.  Snarky Puppy Empire Central is also a 2 CD set of "live in the studio" recording of this large ensemble of musicians described as "a big funky, romping, muscular jazz band". In my opinion, their music bridges art-rock and jazz fusion in a good way.  I was a little put off my their cutesy name when I first heard about them through an article in a local weekly newspaper, but came to like them when I heard their music. The group sound takes center stage over flashy soloists. Again, they are well worth a listen, and I have several of CDs to prove it.

Hopefully our temperature will settle to a normal winter pattern.  In any case, find a warm cozy spot and enjoy some good music.  It warms the soul.

Sunday Music Muse Day - Baden Powell, Charlie Byrd

This Sunday Music Muse Day is the day after Spring Equinox, the astronomical first day of spring in the Northern Hemisphere.  It's shaping up to a be perfect spring day for walk in the sunshine and spring flowers are just starting to peek out. My two selections are perfect of settling into patio chair, or cosy window seat with a good book. First up is Baden Powell Lembrancas (Memories), this solo recording is his last made less then six months before he passed away on September 16, 2000. (I'll refer you this link for a full review, since the liner notes are all in Brazilian (?) - Baden Powell: Lembranças) I knew of Baden Powell as legend in the Samba jazz of the 60's and 70's, but only have a couple of tunes on jazz guitar compilation CD sets. This set is very warm introspective. If you want to relieve stress in a most calming way, give this a try.  It is very nice. I'll be visiting this CD often. (I also think the photos of him are impressive)

My second selection is Charlie Byrd - The Guitar Artistry of Charlie Byrd. This legendary guitarist is also well known for his association with Brazilian music. His collaboration with Stan Getz on the album Jazz Samba in 1962 introduced Bossa Nova to American audiences. This 1960 session pre-dates Byrd trip to South America in 1961 where he was introduce to Bossa Nova. It's nice to uncover an interest fact like this.  One note: it's mention in the liner notes by Willis Conover the shorter pieces were "ideal for improving the space between commercials, assuming commercial radio station still leave space between commercials." Willis Conover was a jazz producer and broadcaster on the Voice of America for over forty years. Now you know.

So, you can't go wrong with these excellent legends of jazz guitar.  Spring is here, enjoy.