Honoring players of the past, and developing an original voice at the same time, isn't as contradictory as it seems, according to Emmet Cohen. The jazz pioneers he admires all paved the way by being confident in their own self-expression. Cohen is doing the same thing, while making it his mission to play alongside as many of today's jazz legends as possible.
Emmet Cohen's newest release, which will arrive in January, is Volume 1 of his Master's Legacy series, featuring drummer Jimmy Cobb. Cohen talks about Cobb's career and influence, and what he's learned by playing alongside the jazz legend.
On Sunday, Cohen plans to pay tribute to the stride pianists of the past, citing Art Tatum, Fats Waller, Earl "Fatha" Hines, and Mary Lou Williams as inspirations. He'll play solo for the first half, and then play the second set with his trio. Tickets and more details at The Gilmore's website.
You can stay in touch with WMUK music on Facebook, Twitter, and by signing up for our eNewsletter.
