From the gravel in their voice to the tattoos drawn upon their skin, Rhythm Rose is a walking portrait of experience. (Wait a minute, did I just say they? Am I still talking about one person? As various expressions of gender are more widely being acknowledged in our culture, there are certainly some kinks to […]
“I’m so blessed,” Steve Wilcox says. “I’ve been blessed throughout my life as far as music goes.” You’d be hard pressed to argue the point. Widely regarded for his virtuosity on guitar, Wilcox has become a master of adaptability. His range of musical expertise encompasses a mixed bag of slow to raging blues, ’40s jump […]
Engaging in conversation with piano colossus Joshua White is somewhat akin to experiencing one of his live performances. There will be a natural, if unpredictable arc, it will behoove and reward the witness to pay close attention at all points. It can careen from one topic to the next, but it will highlight a unifying […]
The world, and its inhabitants, is a swirling dialectic of complementary opposites; nationalism distinct from globalism—the sovereign individual in grand contrast to the sprawling collective. It’s a cosmic push me-pull you choreography of capitalism, socialism, communism, and humanism—all trying to tap you on the shoulder, asking if they can cut in and assume the lead, […]
Steph Johnson points out the filigree around the front door. The framing is ornate but not ostentatious, revealing the Queen Anne heritage of the house. “The house was built in the 1800s,” she says. Next on the house tour is the guest room, with a beautiful view of the mountains. The home that Johnson shares […]
Eclecticism and diversity aren’t exactly championed in this culture of ours. In fact, it would appear at last glance that if you can do one thing reasonably well, and you can repeat that thing ad nauseam, you are poised for a successful 15 minutes in any number of artistic disciplines—regardless of whether or not you […]
“Coming at you in a grand fashion, and being heard all over the world at Jazz 88 –dot-org I’m J. Otis Williams.” Chances are, if you’ve ever had the pleasure of listening to John Otis Williams, that voice is instantly recognizable and ultimately unforgettable. Raspy and relaxed, “jazz” is not a single syllable word in […]
From the moment Mercedes Moore takes the stage you can’t look away. She welcomes you to the show, thanks you for coming, and the band rips into its opening chords. As dancers rush to the floor, the smile on Mercedes’ face grows more radiant; you’re in her world and nothing else matters. You might think […]
Catching up with Gilbert Castellanos can require inside connections, a little mojo, and a dash of good fortune. The San Diego trumpet virtuoso and music educator is always working. Each morning begins with a commitment to the horn. “I try to get up by seven,” says Castellanos. “I’ve been doing this for years. I’ll practice […]
