Kevin Whitehead

Jazz critic Kevin Whitehead reviews the last two releases by jazz drummer Art Blakey, who died last week. Blakey is credited with discovering and nurturing young talent, but Whitehead says not to overlook the drummer's own skill and dedication -- both of which are never absent from any of his albums.

Jazz critic Kevin Whitehead reviews the jazz musician's new albums. Weston spent a spent a decade in Tangiers; Whitehead says you can hear the percussive influence of West African music in his performances.

Kevin Whitehead doesn't like to admit liking new anthologies by Lester Lanin, whom he calls the king of blandness, and "crass and lowbrow" singer Jerry Lewis.

Jazz critic Kevin Whitehead says Brown is one of the best musicians who played with Art Blakey in the 1980s. Both the composition and improvising on his new album are excellent.

Kevin Whitehead reviews the pianist's new trio album. Pullen uses his unconventional technique in traditional jazz setting, which may appeal to listeners turned off by the avant-garde. But he can still play in a more conventional, classical style.

Overlooked albums by Chick Corea and Pat Metheny are now on CD. Jazz critic Kevin Whitehead says both reveal the musicians' more experimental sides.

Rather than shop around their works to established big bands, the New York Composers Orchestra founded their own ensemble. Jazz critic Kevin Whitehead is impressed by their self-titled debut.

Fred Ho is a first-generation Chinese immigrant sax player who incorporates Asian melodies into his ensemble work. Carlo Actis Dato's music has a distinct Italian folk flare. Jazz critic Kevin Whitehead says their recent albums are irresistible.

Jazz critic Kevin Whitehead thinks there's nothing better than Duke Ellington's masterful compositions, arrangements, and performances. He reviews two new CDs he thinks are particularly excellent.

Jazz critic Kevin Whitehead says that some of the soloists Duke Ellington featured in the bandleader's big band left a lasting impression -- even after their departure. Whitehead reviews two new CD anthologies which feature trumpeters Bubber Miley and Louis Armstrong's collaborations with the jazz composer.