Brian Blade is one of my all-time favorite drummers, and overall musicians, and musicians and music fans all over the world agree. I've had the opportunity to see Brian Blade perform on several occasions, and it is a performance not to be missed. His expression, dynamics, humility, and story-telling on the drum kit are one-of-a kind. He continues to make his mark in jazz and popular music, playing with such notable artists as Bob Dylan, Daniel Lanois, Bill Frisell, Emmylou Harris, Joni Mitchell, Joshua Redman, Seal, and Wayne Shorter.
The Fellowship Band is a group of musicians, including acclaimed guitarist Kurt Rosenwinkel, with original music that combines jazz improvisation and classical composition. "Season of Changes" is composed by pianist Jon Cowherd, and is from the album of the same name, released in 2008. It starts with a somber melody, then transitions to a more high energy melody with a passionate yet understated drum solo. The song reaches a peak of excitement with improvisation by saxophonists Myron Waldron and Melvin Butler, before gently transitioning back to the somber melody from the beginning.
This seems a fitting tune for this time of year, when so many things are in flux: a time of reflection of what has happened this year, and excitement for what's to come the next year. "Season of Changes" takes me on a journey through all of these emotions, by way of the ensemble's high level of expression and communication.
You can learn more about Brian Blade here:
About the Curator, Caitlin Moss:
Drum set player and percussionist Caitlin Moss was born and raised in Los Angeles. She has performed at such venues as the Skirball Center and the Ford Amphitheatre and has toured nationally and internationally, including performances in Mexico and Cuba, with Grammy-winning bands La Santa Cecilia and Quetzal. She performs and records in Los Angeles as a freelance musician and as a member of several original bands. Caitlin is also teaching drum set, percussion, piano, and music production classes at a youth arts center operated by the Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs.
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