Flowers for Bill Laswell: Collision, Chaos, and Freedom
“We may certainly see God in all arts and in all sciences, but in music alone we see God free from all forms and thoughts.” - Inayat Khan
Spotlight
Explore The Tonearm's feature presentations.
An Intimate Dialogue with Starsailor Frontman James Walsh: The Evolution of a Solo Journey and His Upcoming Tour
British singer-songwriter James Walsh, known for his role as the frontman of the multi-million selling band Starsailor, is set to embark on a UK and Italian tour this October.
Taeko Kunishima
Taeko Kunishima is a pianist and composer who I first became aware of in 2011, around the release of her third album, Late Autumn. At the time, I reviewed that record for the website All About Jazz and have followed her music since.
Mohamad Zatari
Mohamad Zatari is an oud performer and composer originally from Aleppo, Syria. Currently based in Bucharest, Romania, Mohamad’s work has accompanied film and visual art; he performs widely and with musical partners from various and diverse countries...
Dave McMurray: Blowing on the Edge of Grate-ness
Saxophonist Dave McMurray's discography is reflective of the musical melting pot of his hometown Detroit. Dave came up playing with everyone from bluesman Albert King, pianist Geri Allen, even Kid Rock.
Danny Scher: Back To School With Thelonious Monk
A high-stakes election season. Streets filled with rage and protest. Cries for racial justice and equity. The latest news from summer 2020?
Pat Metheny: Pulling it All Together
As the 1970s came to a close, guitarist Pat Metheny was riding high on a wave of well-received albums, from his self-named Group and Trio and as a contributor to works by vibraphonist Gary Burton, bassist Jaco Pastorius and others.
Matt Wilson: Have Drums, Will Travel
Drummer Matt Wilson must surely be in the running for the title of hardest-working man in jazz. Wilson is a composer, bandleader, producer, and teacher. As a leader, his projects include the Matt Wilson Quartet, Arts & Crafts, Christmas Tree-O and the Carl Sandburg Project.
Rez Abbasi: Thoroughly Modern Marvel
Guitarist Rez Abbasi is part of a generation of jazz musicians who came of age after the conservative backlash of the 1980s.
Miguel Zenón: Jazz Sherpa
At the dawn of the second decade of his career, saxophonist Miguel Zenón has established himself as one of the most sophisticated and stylish players of the new millennium. In a very short time, Zenón has made his mark as a composer, band leader, educator, and jazz advocate.