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Showing posts from June, 2024

What an incredible and historic Interview with Archie Shepp: Insights from Portland Jazz Festival

In an age where musical legends still walk among us, the interview with Archie Shepp by Ashley Kahn on February 22, 2020, at the Portland Jazz Festival stands out as an incredible piece of history. For anyone interested in the roots of black music, and indeed all music, this interview is an absolute joy. It provides a profound look into the life and career of one of jazz's most influential figures. Archie Shepp, the renowned saxophonist and vocalist, performed that evening with his exceptional quartet, featuring Lafayette Harris on piano, Avery Sharpe on bass, and Ronnie Burrage on drums. Shepp's reflections during the interview offered a deep dive into his musical journey, touching on the elements of surprise and creativity that define jazz. His voice, both in song and speech, carries the weight of decades of experience and innovation. Taking us through his early years, Shepp shared how his experiences at Goddard College in Vermont shaped his approach to music. His exposure to

Uncle Acid and the Dead Beats - "Ritorno All'oscurità" - Nell’ Ora Blu - Rise Above Records Kevin Starrs

Uncle Acid and the Dead Beats have unleashed "Nell Ora Blue. We are looking at one of the tracks from the album Ritorno All'oscurità," a track that pulls listeners into a hauntingly familiar, yet eerily unique soundscape. Where nostalga and the sinister still allure. "Ritorno All'oscurità" along with many other track from the album feel like the perfect soundtrack to a lost 70s horror flick. According to Kevin Starrs the album was inspired by films like - Things like Five Dolls for an August Moon (1970), The Fifth Cord (1971), and All the Colours of the Dark (1972) a loved Edwige film and more.   Expect a tape warping warm vintage production reminiscent of an era where analogue ruled and digital was but a distant dream. This particular song's title, translating to "Return to Darkness," is a fitting nod as it almost drives you from a dark period, into another one ahead at the next crossing, a sort of quite atmosphere but one where you know you a

G.I. Gurdjieff: Encuentros con Hombres Notables (1979)

G.I. Gurdjieff: Encuentros con Hombres Notables (1979) , directed by Peter Brook, is a biographical drama based on the life of the mystic and spiritual teacher George Ivanovich Gurdjieff. The film traces Gurdjieff's early years and his quest for knowledge through his travels and encounters with various remarkable individuals who influenced his spiritual development. The narrative focuses on Gurdjieff's journey from his youth, detailing the teachings he received from his father and other masters, as well as his discovery of Sufi dances and the esoteric teachings known as the Fourth Way. These experiences culminate in his development of a unique spiritual path that integrates these diverse teachings. The film is known for its exploration of deep philosophical and spiritual themes, emphasizing that true faith and enlightenment come from profound personal understanding rather than blind adherence. It also highlights the extraordinary experiences and wisdom of the people Gurdjieff m