Originally published in the December 2017 issue of Zocalo Magazine. This nine-track album of instrumentals is gorgeous, sparse, reflective, quiet, understated, and deftly executed – with jazz, orchestral/classical, blues, and cinematic vibes. It gives room for the listener to fill in the stories from one’s own imaginative perspective, or simply the chance to just zone out and let the notes wash over you. It’s easy to understand the fascinating mix of styles – which is … [Read more...]
Ritual, Scent & Healing
Perfume is the smell of creation, a sign dramatically delivered to our senses of the Earth’s regenerative powers – a message of hope and a message of pleasure. – Claude LeFever in Tom Robbins’s “Jitterbug Perfume” The aromatic bodywork offered at Ritual by Kate’s Magik, 215 N. Court Ave., is a luxuriant, transportive, deeply relaxing and meditative experience. It starts with a consultation, a conversation over cool water or warm tea to discuss what ails you physically, emotionally … [Read more...]
Sonic Storytelling
Photo by Shelly Black (Originally published by Zocalo Magazine on Sept. 2, 2017.) Under an August noon, Chris Black handed me his recently pressed CDs, Lullabies & Nightmares: Chamber Music Vol. 1 and Downtown Suite & Cooper Must Die. I told him, “I only know how to write about this based on the vibes I get from the music. I’m not a classically trained musician.” He smiled and said, “That’s okay, neither am I.” Be that as it may, Black’s recent releases are songs he wrote for … [Read more...]
Mindful in a World of Distractions: Leila Lopez’s “Our Animal Skin”
Leila Lopez writes songs that explore the depths of human relationships, with ourselves and others, and our emotional struggles as we move through this thing called life. She is vulnerable, resilient and authentic, sapient, contemplative, kind and loving, and her richly layered folk songs are imbued with those attributes. The album is also imbued with a gentle acceptance of life’s pain, joy, challenges, and ephemeral nature. It conjures the Japanese concept “mono no aware,” the poignant, … [Read more...]
Not Your Mama’s Mother’s Day Benefit
(Published by Zocalo Magazine on May 3, 2017.) The vivacious Jillian Bessett – leader and singer/songwriter, keyboardist and multi-instrumentalist of Tucson’s beloved Jillian & The Giants – is spearheading a concert fundraiser for Emerge! Center Against Domestic Abuse on May 13. You should go. Here are 10 reasons why. The incredible event line-up: The Surfbroads: “Hot Broads Playing Cool Surf” Jillian & The Giants: “Indie Rock with Soul” Street Blues … [Read more...]
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