In this archive. edition of the Spotlight, Marty Ashby and Renee Govanucci look back on Jazz Appreciation Month highlights performed and recorded at MCG Jazz.
Spyro Gyra, Tom Scott, Ann Hampton Callaway, the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra, Paquito D’Rivera, Herbie Mann, Phil Woods and they became recordings!
You’ll hear the Smithsonian Jazz Masterworks Orchestra tearing into “The Witching Hour,” a performance that captures the ensemble’s signature precision and swing. From there, we move to Tom Scott with “Close View,” bringing that unmistakable West Coast tone and studio polish into a live setting.
And it wouldn’t be JAM without a global flavor—Paquito D’Rivera and the New York Voices shine on “Retrato em Branco e Preto” from the Grammy-winning Brazilian Dreams release—yes, that same material that just came back through our stage not long ago.
Spyro Gyra with “Walk the Walk,” blending groove and polish in a way only they can, plus a standout from Herbie Mann and Phil Woods on “Will Meet Again,” where two masters meet in a moment that feels equal parts conversation and celebration.
Add in powerhouse vocals from Ann Hampton Callaway on “At Long Last Love / My Gift of Thanks,” and a touch of elegance from Ivan Lins with “Anjo de Mim,” and you’ve got a lineup that defines what Jazz Appreciation Month is all about.
The MCGJazz Spotlight on WZUM - Friday and Sunday nights at 6, and Saturday afternoon at 1.
Paquto D’Rivera and Mary Ashby
