Bebop Spoken There

Ludovic Beier (Django Festival Allstars): ''Manouche means 'free man,' and gypsies have been travelers since they migrated west from India to Europe.'' (DownBeat March, 2026)

The Things They Say!

This is a good opportunity to say thanks to BSH for their support of the jazz scene in the North East (and beyond) - it's no exaggeration to say that if it wasn't for them many, many fine musicians, bands and projects across a huge cross section of jazz wouldn't be getting reviewed at all, because we're in the "desolate"(!) North. (M & SSBB on F/book 23/12/24)

Postage

18383 (and counting) posts since we started blogging 18 years ago. 247 of them this year alone and, so far this month (Mar. 17 ), 57

Reviewers wanted

Whilst BSH attempts to cover as many gigs, festivals and albums as possible, to make the site even more comprehensive we need more 'boots on the ground' to cover the albums seeking review - a large percentage of which never get heard - report on gigs or just to air your views on anything jazz related. Interested? then please get in touch. Contact details are on the blog. Look forward to hearing from you. Lance

Wednesday, August 24, 2016

RIP Derek Smith (August 17, 1931 - August 2016)


London-born, long-time American resident, pianist  Derek Smith passed away circa August 21.
Prior to moving to New York Smith was a member of the Johnny Dankworth Orchestra as well as being an integral part of trumpet player Kenny Baker's legendary Dozen with whom he broadcast and recorded with on many occasions.
In America, he quickly became established working with top musicians in a variety of genres.
Read what the New York Times Classified Obituary had to say:
SMITH--Derek,Renowned jazz pianist, husband, father and grandfather. Originally from England, he began his career at the age of 14 on VE Day. In 1957 he immigrated to the United States, building a career that spanned seven decades. His immense talent earned the respect and admiration of everyone who knew him. Playing with every big name in show business, and performing with every major player on the jazz scene, he will be remembered as one of the jazz greats.
Derek Smith was 85. Sadly missed.
Lance.
Shiny Stockings.

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