September 2009 Archives

There exist in this world champions of standards singing in all of its various forms.  One of those people is Bruno Pollacci.  Based in Pisa, Italy, Bruno puts together three online broadcasts - Dubidubidu (a sweetly titled program of Italian jazz vocalists), AnimaJazz (instrumentalists), and A Voice, A Soul (standards singers from all of the world).  I am delighted that both The Nearness of You and I'm in Heaven Tonight have received spins on A Voice, A Soul. 

I'm in Heaven Tonight debuted on this program over the summer with "On the Street Where You Live" (A Voice, A Soul n. 109).  (Yes, I know this isn't the most timely post, but I'm doing some post-natal catch up of some pre-natal work.)  This broadcast includes some very well-produced tracks with a strong traditional pop bent.  I invite everyone to listen to this program, especially those of you who like traditional pop interpretations. 

Bruno has made it very easy to access this broadcast.  No more passwords!!  Just click on the link below.  When you get to the page, go to the left column and scroll down to A Voice, A Soul n. 109.  Click on this and the program should automatically start in your default music player.  

A Voice, A Soul n. 109

Recently there have been a spate of very interesting articles about music, the music business, and culture in general.  This interview, conducted by Greg Kot of the Chicago Tribune, is my favorite of the bunch - a really thoughtful, concise, and articulate assessment of the current situation of independent musicians and record labels by two Chicago independent record label owners.  These people have a wonderfully appropriate sense of humor, which you need in this business, and provide some funny quotes: "rearranging the chairs on the Titanic," "You have to have more passion than sense."  If you are someone in the business who is in need of a cathartic laugh in recognition or someone who wants learn more about what it's like to be an independent musician and/or someone operating an independent label, I recommend this quick and enjoyable read.

http://leisureblogs.chicagotribune.com/turn_it_up/2009/09/bloodshot-records-celebrates-15-years-an-interview-with-coowners-rob-miller-and-nan-warshaw-.html